Past Panelists
Charles Horton
Charles Horton is a successful entrepreneur with a passion for mentoring others. Founder and CEO of FastBucks, and founder of SecureVital, he began his journey by focusing on the things he found interesting: business, finance, and personal development. As a very young man, he created SmartCheck, a check guarantee company, and grew it to be the eighth-largest in the country. An expert on personal finance, Charles has pursued business endeavors from an early age and has built several multimillion-dollar companies. He is also the CEO of the University of Wealth, which equips individuals and their families to create a legacy of financial strength and prosperity.
Charles is a F.I.R.E. Master Instructor and owner of the Firewalking Institute of Research and Education (F.I.R.E.), a transformative program for everyone involved. F.I.R.E. conducts training regularly for companies such as Google, General Electric, Whirlpool, Heineken, Reckitt Benckiser, and Kering. Charles also speaks internationally and is the author of several books, including Ignite the Secret: 19 Lessons for Business and Life. If you would like to bring Charles to your company, visit Firewalking.com.
Charles is also an expert in developing corporate culture and crisis management. Visit his personal website at CharlesHorton.com. To purchase his book Ignite the Secret, visit IgniteTheSecret.com
Charles is a F.I.R.E. Master Instructor and owner of the Firewalking Institute of Research and Education (F.I.R.E.), a transformative program for everyone involved. F.I.R.E. conducts training regularly for companies such as Google, General Electric, Whirlpool, Heineken, Reckitt Benckiser, and Kering. Charles also speaks internationally and is the author of several books, including Ignite the Secret: 19 Lessons for Business and Life. If you would like to bring Charles to your company, visit Firewalking.com.
Charles is also an expert in developing corporate culture and crisis management. Visit his personal website at CharlesHorton.com. To purchase his book Ignite the Secret, visit IgniteTheSecret.com
John Brown
John Brown is a Serial Entrepreneur with over 50 years experience in a wide variety of industries and companies, including an International Company he founded in 1976 and ran for 28 years. John is a family man, with three sons and eight grandchildren, and recently celebrated 57 years of marriage to his West Texas high school sweetheart, Kay. John is a member of Denton Bible Church and also attends Prestonwood Baptist Church in Dallas.
John holds a BSME from the University of Wisconsin in Madison and an MBA from Texas Tech University in Lubbock. He received the Bronze Star while serving in Vietnam and used his GI Bill to get his Commercial, Multi-Engine and Instrument Pilot Ratings. He has over 1,000 hours as pilot in command.
John was a valued employee of Conoco for many years, beginning as an Associate Engineer & Staff Engineer (Houston, TX) and progressing to Plant Engineer (Egan, LA); Plant Foreman (Grand Chenier, LA) and Buyer & Senior Buyer (Lake Charles, LA). He also served in a Special Assignment analyzing and evaluating large investment opportinities and reporting to the now retired President of Conoco. John has conducted Seminars and Workshops in over 100 cities throughout the US.
John is a 35 year Lifetime Member of the CEO Club and was a Founding Member of the Dallas PAC (Presidential Advisory Council) and SUPER PAC. He Chairs the Dallas Chapter of the CEO Club. John became a member of Mensa in 1969 and is included in Marquis Who's Who in America, Finance and Industry, South & Southwest and the World. John was recently awarded the Lifetime Achievement Award from Marquis Who's Who and has been listed in Marquis Publications for over 20 years. John was also a member of the Inner Circle of the President's Council of the Republican Party and was a Contributing Author for the Book: Steel Homes.
For the past 7 years John has been CEO of Texas Business Centers in Denton providing Office and Warehouse Space and Business Services. He is Chairman Co-Founder of the Boardroom now in it's 7th year. www.BoardroomLessons.com and his passions are his Faith, Family and Businesses of all shapes and sizes.
John holds a BSME from the University of Wisconsin in Madison and an MBA from Texas Tech University in Lubbock. He received the Bronze Star while serving in Vietnam and used his GI Bill to get his Commercial, Multi-Engine and Instrument Pilot Ratings. He has over 1,000 hours as pilot in command.
John was a valued employee of Conoco for many years, beginning as an Associate Engineer & Staff Engineer (Houston, TX) and progressing to Plant Engineer (Egan, LA); Plant Foreman (Grand Chenier, LA) and Buyer & Senior Buyer (Lake Charles, LA). He also served in a Special Assignment analyzing and evaluating large investment opportinities and reporting to the now retired President of Conoco. John has conducted Seminars and Workshops in over 100 cities throughout the US.
John is a 35 year Lifetime Member of the CEO Club and was a Founding Member of the Dallas PAC (Presidential Advisory Council) and SUPER PAC. He Chairs the Dallas Chapter of the CEO Club. John became a member of Mensa in 1969 and is included in Marquis Who's Who in America, Finance and Industry, South & Southwest and the World. John was recently awarded the Lifetime Achievement Award from Marquis Who's Who and has been listed in Marquis Publications for over 20 years. John was also a member of the Inner Circle of the President's Council of the Republican Party and was a Contributing Author for the Book: Steel Homes.
For the past 7 years John has been CEO of Texas Business Centers in Denton providing Office and Warehouse Space and Business Services. He is Chairman Co-Founder of the Boardroom now in it's 7th year. www.BoardroomLessons.com and his passions are his Faith, Family and Businesses of all shapes and sizes.
Marcos Rodriguez
Marcos Rodriguez helps entrepreneurs, business owners, and non-profits grow and enjoys applying strategic thought and new ideas. He was born in Cuba, benefited from the American Dream, and has started many innovative businesses. As he says, "Sometimes, I failed. Most of the time, I learned."
On LinkedIn, Marcos calls himself Learner, Entrepreneur, CEO, Investor, Advisor, Repeater.
On LinkedIn, Marcos calls himself Learner, Entrepreneur, CEO, Investor, Advisor, Repeater.
Will Bunker
Will Bunker is a serial entrepreneur and angel investor in San Francisco, California.
He is the co-founder of GrowthX and board member of the Silicon Valley Growth Syndicate. Through GrowthX Will has invested in 190 companies in 4 years. During the Dot-com Boom of the 1990s, Will founded popular dating site One & Only which was acquired in 1999 by TicketMaster and later became part of Match.com. Prior to technology, Will consulted for NB Hunt. Will is an avid speaker and blogger on entrepreneurship, including feature interviews by TiE and Mixergy.
He is the co-founder of GrowthX and board member of the Silicon Valley Growth Syndicate. Through GrowthX Will has invested in 190 companies in 4 years. During the Dot-com Boom of the 1990s, Will founded popular dating site One & Only which was acquired in 1999 by TicketMaster and later became part of Match.com. Prior to technology, Will consulted for NB Hunt. Will is an avid speaker and blogger on entrepreneurship, including feature interviews by TiE and Mixergy.
Greg Carr
With more than 25 years of experience, Managing Partner Greg Carr practices the full spectrum of Intellectual Property law, including domestic and foreign matters and proceedings before federal courts throughout the U.S., the Trademark Trial and Appeal Board, and the Board of Patent Appeals and Interferences. This frequently involves building portfolios of various Intellectual Property assets, designing alternative processes and devices to avoid infringement, as well as expanding market share through licensing (and other collaborative relationships) and, if necessary, litigation to enforce Intellectual Property rights or challenge infringement claims.
Mr. Carr is registered to practice before the U.S. Patent and Trademark Office and in Texas courts. He is admitted to practice before the United States District Courts for the Northern and Southern Districts of Texas. Mr. Carr is additionally admitted before the United States Court of Federal Claims and the United States Court of Appeals, Fifth and Federal Circuits. He frequently serves as an industry expert in speaking engagements and publications and has authored articles for Texas Lawyer, The National Law Journal, and Dallas-Fort Worth TechBiz. In 2015 and 2016, Mr. Carr was named to D Magazine’s Best Lawyers list, a selection based on peer reviews by fellow attorneys in Dallas.
Mr. Carr is a member of various professional associations, including: the Dallas Bar Association (Patent, Trademark and Copyright Law Section); the American Bar Association (Chair, Subcommittee Reporting on Intellectual Property Protection in Latin America, 1994-1995); the State Bar of Texas (Intellectual Property Section); the Dallas-Fort Worth Intellectual Property Law Association; the American Intellectual Property Law Association (Co-chair, Subcommittee on Exxon-Florio Act, 1990-1991); and the Texas Bar College (2015-2016). For the State Bar of Texas, he actively serves on the Planning Committee for a CLE Seminar on "High-Tech Litigation."
Mr. Carr is registered to practice before the U.S. Patent and Trademark Office and in Texas courts. He is admitted to practice before the United States District Courts for the Northern and Southern Districts of Texas. Mr. Carr is additionally admitted before the United States Court of Federal Claims and the United States Court of Appeals, Fifth and Federal Circuits. He frequently serves as an industry expert in speaking engagements and publications and has authored articles for Texas Lawyer, The National Law Journal, and Dallas-Fort Worth TechBiz. In 2015 and 2016, Mr. Carr was named to D Magazine’s Best Lawyers list, a selection based on peer reviews by fellow attorneys in Dallas.
Mr. Carr is a member of various professional associations, including: the Dallas Bar Association (Patent, Trademark and Copyright Law Section); the American Bar Association (Chair, Subcommittee Reporting on Intellectual Property Protection in Latin America, 1994-1995); the State Bar of Texas (Intellectual Property Section); the Dallas-Fort Worth Intellectual Property Law Association; the American Intellectual Property Law Association (Co-chair, Subcommittee on Exxon-Florio Act, 1990-1991); and the Texas Bar College (2015-2016). For the State Bar of Texas, he actively serves on the Planning Committee for a CLE Seminar on "High-Tech Litigation."
Jeff Crilley
Jeff Crilley retired from TV news after 25 years in the business to start the country's first "all journalist" PR firm. During his career he made hundreds of national news appearances including CNN, CNN Headline News, FOX News, The Discovery Channel, Good Morning America and The CBS Early Show.
He has been recognized by his peers with dozens of national and regional awards including the Emmy, the National Headliners Award, the Edward R. Murrow Award, the Thurgood Marshall Award and in 2004 was named by the Texas Associated Press, "The Best TV Reporter in the state.” For more information, visit www.RealNewsPR.com.
He has been recognized by his peers with dozens of national and regional awards including the Emmy, the National Headliners Award, the Edward R. Murrow Award, the Thurgood Marshall Award and in 2004 was named by the Texas Associated Press, "The Best TV Reporter in the state.” For more information, visit www.RealNewsPR.com.
Raj Daniels
Experienced business consultant and has been involved in business ventures across several verticals as a consultant, owner, investor and adviser. Raj has a personal passion for strategy and vision building that has allowed him to lead successful strategic initiatives for both profit and non-profit organizations. His current role is CEO & VP of Enthusiasm of OpenTime. Informal evangelist of the Dallas startup ecosystem and community builder.
Raj is a firm believer in contributing back to society and has given back by conducting personal growth seminars for teens, mentoring MBA students and entrepreneur camps. He has also served on the board of for profit and non-profit organizations.
Education, BA in Liberal Arts from UNT with a concentration in Business and International Studies and an MBA in Global Leadership.
Raj is a firm believer in contributing back to society and has given back by conducting personal growth seminars for teens, mentoring MBA students and entrepreneur camps. He has also served on the board of for profit and non-profit organizations.
Education, BA in Liberal Arts from UNT with a concentration in Business and International Studies and an MBA in Global Leadership.
Said Davlatov
Said Davlatov is a global author and entrepreneur with a mission to help others succeed. His books have sold millions of copies across the world, and this groundbreaking book, Me and Money, helps people think differently about their relationship with wealth.
Me and Money has already sold hundreds of thousands of copies. As of 2016, the Me and Money series consists of six books on topics such as financial and money management, business strategy, relationship development, and network marketing, with two more books awaiting publication.
In addition, Said has also written a children’s book and created a workshop to develop financial literacy and entrepreneurial aspirations for children ages six to twelve.
Said was born in Tajikistan. The youngest of ten children, he lost his father when he was just one year old. When Said was eight, his mother experienced financial hardship but wanted the best for him, so she sent him to live with his mentor, who educated him on life and business, and laid the foundation of his character. These experiences shaped his life and fueled his desire to give back.
After graduating from high school with honors, Said began his university education. When civil war erupted in Tajikistan, he had no time and no money to study. After quitting three institutes, he moved to Moscow to work.
Said enrolled in the Princes Shcherbatov Interethnic Academy of Arts and Natural Sciences (IAANS) in Moscow, where he was awarded his PhD. He also completed training with Mirzakarim Norbekov, founder of the Institute of Human Self-Healing. He began a mentorship with Bodo Schafer, a top financial consultant in Europe, and learned principles that changed his mind-set and his life.
Since then, Said has trained with world-renowned entrepreneurs, businessmen, and personal development coaches Stephen Covey, Brian Tracy, Tetsuo Yasuyi, Richard Branson, and Smiljan Mori.
Throughout his education and training, Said successfully launched and managed more than fifty businesses in a variety of industries, including construction, food services, retail services, manufacturing, travel and tourism, agriculture, and real estate, among others.
He created SAMO, the International Center for Human Development, to help others by educating them on financial management, health and fitness, and relationship development. He organizes and teaches a variety of workshops and seminars designed to improve financial knowledge, create business strategy, enhance leadership and management techniques, as well as develop an integrative approach to body, mind, and spirit.
Despite his busy schedule as a husband, father, entrepreneur, and business coach/mentor, Said continues his own self-improvement journey by investing in education and mentorships with top business and personal development coaches. In his free time, he enjoys spending time with his family, composing, and singing.
Me and Money has already sold hundreds of thousands of copies. As of 2016, the Me and Money series consists of six books on topics such as financial and money management, business strategy, relationship development, and network marketing, with two more books awaiting publication.
In addition, Said has also written a children’s book and created a workshop to develop financial literacy and entrepreneurial aspirations for children ages six to twelve.
Said was born in Tajikistan. The youngest of ten children, he lost his father when he was just one year old. When Said was eight, his mother experienced financial hardship but wanted the best for him, so she sent him to live with his mentor, who educated him on life and business, and laid the foundation of his character. These experiences shaped his life and fueled his desire to give back.
After graduating from high school with honors, Said began his university education. When civil war erupted in Tajikistan, he had no time and no money to study. After quitting three institutes, he moved to Moscow to work.
Said enrolled in the Princes Shcherbatov Interethnic Academy of Arts and Natural Sciences (IAANS) in Moscow, where he was awarded his PhD. He also completed training with Mirzakarim Norbekov, founder of the Institute of Human Self-Healing. He began a mentorship with Bodo Schafer, a top financial consultant in Europe, and learned principles that changed his mind-set and his life.
Since then, Said has trained with world-renowned entrepreneurs, businessmen, and personal development coaches Stephen Covey, Brian Tracy, Tetsuo Yasuyi, Richard Branson, and Smiljan Mori.
Throughout his education and training, Said successfully launched and managed more than fifty businesses in a variety of industries, including construction, food services, retail services, manufacturing, travel and tourism, agriculture, and real estate, among others.
He created SAMO, the International Center for Human Development, to help others by educating them on financial management, health and fitness, and relationship development. He organizes and teaches a variety of workshops and seminars designed to improve financial knowledge, create business strategy, enhance leadership and management techniques, as well as develop an integrative approach to body, mind, and spirit.
Despite his busy schedule as a husband, father, entrepreneur, and business coach/mentor, Said continues his own self-improvement journey by investing in education and mentorships with top business and personal development coaches. In his free time, he enjoys spending time with his family, composing, and singing.
Krish Dhanam
Krish Dhanam was born in the coastal town of Vizag, in Andhra Pradesh, India . In 1984 he finished his MBA at the Institute of Management Technology and migrated to the United States in 1986.
As a proud card carrying member of the sales force of America, Krish soon started his corporate climb. Through training, teaching and facilitating seminars all over the world, Krish launched his professional speaking career. As one of only two executive coaches personally trained by Zig Ziglar, Krish has successfully delivered his message of hope, humor and balance in over forty international venues and throughout the continental United States . His client list is the who's who of global enterprise and he has received accolades from some of the most distinguished organizations including, The United States Army, Christian Dior, Steelcase Industries, Apollo Hospitals, The Environmental Protection Agency, Weyerhauser and the Florida Department of Revenue.
He is the author of The American Dream from an Indian Heart and contributing author to Top Performance written by Zig Ziglar. Happily over married to his bride of nineteen years he and his wife Anila are the proud parents of Nicolas who is twelve years old. Krish and his family make their home in Flower Mound, Texas . As a volunteer he sits on the board of the Greater Dallas Indo-American Chamber of Commerce. Krish is also actively involved in his church, where he teaches a large Sunday school class and regularly speaks in prisons sharing his message.
As a proud card carrying member of the sales force of America, Krish soon started his corporate climb. Through training, teaching and facilitating seminars all over the world, Krish launched his professional speaking career. As one of only two executive coaches personally trained by Zig Ziglar, Krish has successfully delivered his message of hope, humor and balance in over forty international venues and throughout the continental United States . His client list is the who's who of global enterprise and he has received accolades from some of the most distinguished organizations including, The United States Army, Christian Dior, Steelcase Industries, Apollo Hospitals, The Environmental Protection Agency, Weyerhauser and the Florida Department of Revenue.
He is the author of The American Dream from an Indian Heart and contributing author to Top Performance written by Zig Ziglar. Happily over married to his bride of nineteen years he and his wife Anila are the proud parents of Nicolas who is twelve years old. Krish and his family make their home in Flower Mound, Texas . As a volunteer he sits on the board of the Greater Dallas Indo-American Chamber of Commerce. Krish is also actively involved in his church, where he teaches a large Sunday school class and regularly speaks in prisons sharing his message.
Sunil Dharod
Sunil Dharod has spent the past 30 years working in the service and hospitality industry. He began his career in L.A. where he purchased his first restaurant in 1986. After moving to Dallas in 1993, he bought 12 underperforming Burger King restaurants. In a short time, he increased sales and profit margins in these locations.
In 2008 Mr. Dharod purchased a 37 unit Applebee’s Franchise in the Dallas/Ft. Worth area, and again in 2012 purchased the Houston and Austin markets, growing the Apple Texas Group into a 68-unit franchise.
These restaurants, and their day-to-day operations are managed under SSCP Management, Inc. which is owned and operated by Mr. Dharod. In January of 2015, SSCP Management added the Roy’s Restaurant brand to its umbrella of companies. Sunil truly believes in Roy’s, the Aloha Spirit, and the innovative culinary creations that make Roy’s a unique fine dining destination.
In 2016, the beginning phases of construction have begun on SSCP’s newest venture, Slim Chickens.
Mr. Dharod and his wife of 29 years, Sharmila, live in Plano, TX. They have two children: a daughter who graduated this year from The University of Texas and a son who is an SMU graduate, working as a VP for the family company.
In 2008 Mr. Dharod purchased a 37 unit Applebee’s Franchise in the Dallas/Ft. Worth area, and again in 2012 purchased the Houston and Austin markets, growing the Apple Texas Group into a 68-unit franchise.
These restaurants, and their day-to-day operations are managed under SSCP Management, Inc. which is owned and operated by Mr. Dharod. In January of 2015, SSCP Management added the Roy’s Restaurant brand to its umbrella of companies. Sunil truly believes in Roy’s, the Aloha Spirit, and the innovative culinary creations that make Roy’s a unique fine dining destination.
In 2016, the beginning phases of construction have begun on SSCP’s newest venture, Slim Chickens.
Mr. Dharod and his wife of 29 years, Sharmila, live in Plano, TX. They have two children: a daughter who graduated this year from The University of Texas and a son who is an SMU graduate, working as a VP for the family company.
Carla Ferrer
With 25 years of experience as an investor and entrepreneur, Dr. Carla Ferrer Russo, PhD, ND, MSc, RYT, is a natural for the boardroom.
Dr. Carla is a Professor of Nutrition and Health Sciences, is a Board Certified Naturopathic Doctor (ND), has a Master of Science in Clinical Nutrition, is a Registered Yoga Teacher, and also holds a sub-specialty certification in Homeopathic Psychology & Human Behavior.
Carla Ferrer Russo, PhD, is a Professor of Natural Health Science, a Board Certified Naturopathic Doctor (ND), holds a Master of Science in Clinical Nutrition, is a Registered Yoga Teacher, and also holds a sub-specialty certification in Homeopathic Psychology & Human Behavior.
For over twenty years, Dr. Carla's work has focused on sharing both her personal and professional experience addressing the whole being, mind, body and spirit; specializing in the field of transformation and consciousness for healthy lifestyle living, empowering profound personal and professional break-throughs for individuals and organizations throughout the United States and United Kingdom (EU).
As an educator, transformational seminar leader, retreat facilitator, and keynote speaker rooted in Ayurveda teaching naturopathy, homeopathy, and organic nutrition, Dr. Carla marries her depth of wisdom and insight with passion, humor, and sensitivity to empower individuals in awakening to the brilliance of who they are ~ Bridging The Gap Between Impossible and Attainable ~ living life intentionally by individual design ~ naturally and organically!
Dr. Carla is a Professor of Nutrition and Health Sciences, is a Board Certified Naturopathic Doctor (ND), has a Master of Science in Clinical Nutrition, is a Registered Yoga Teacher, and also holds a sub-specialty certification in Homeopathic Psychology & Human Behavior.
Carla Ferrer Russo, PhD, is a Professor of Natural Health Science, a Board Certified Naturopathic Doctor (ND), holds a Master of Science in Clinical Nutrition, is a Registered Yoga Teacher, and also holds a sub-specialty certification in Homeopathic Psychology & Human Behavior.
For over twenty years, Dr. Carla's work has focused on sharing both her personal and professional experience addressing the whole being, mind, body and spirit; specializing in the field of transformation and consciousness for healthy lifestyle living, empowering profound personal and professional break-throughs for individuals and organizations throughout the United States and United Kingdom (EU).
As an educator, transformational seminar leader, retreat facilitator, and keynote speaker rooted in Ayurveda teaching naturopathy, homeopathy, and organic nutrition, Dr. Carla marries her depth of wisdom and insight with passion, humor, and sensitivity to empower individuals in awakening to the brilliance of who they are ~ Bridging The Gap Between Impossible and Attainable ~ living life intentionally by individual design ~ naturally and organically!
David Hammer
Mr. Hammer has significant experience in domestic and international mergers, acquisitions and divestitures across multiple industry lines. The businesses he has advised have included computer software, consumer electronics, medical technology, personnel/staffing, insurance, architectural, engineering, restaurant, plastics fabrication, machine tool manufacturing, cable television and pharmaceutical companies. Hammer has represented NYSE buyers and sellers, as well as selling entrepreneurs, in transactions ranging in size from tens of thousands of dollars to over $150 Million. He has advised sellers on how to position their businesses for sale, valuation and the negotiation of the terms of sale. Hammer has both conducted and supervised buyer due diligence investigations as well as the preparation of seller disclosure schedules. As a director of 11 different privately held companies, Hammer has made the decisions as a board member which have led to the successful sale of six of these companies. Hammer continues as a director of three of these same companies.
Previously, Hammer served 10 years with the law firms of Allen, Knuths & Cassell and Reynolds, Shannon, Miller, Blinn, White & Cook. He also spent two years with Haskins & Sells, a public accounting firm (now Deloitte & Touché). His career focused on buying and selling companies with emphasis on technology acquisitions and securities matters pertaining to public company clients. Hammer received his Doctor of Jurisprudence from the Texas Tech University School of Law and his Bachelor of Business Administration in accounting from Texas Tech University. Hammer is a licensed attorney (TX Lic. #08854600) and a certified public accountant (TX Lic. #014233).
Previously, Hammer served 10 years with the law firms of Allen, Knuths & Cassell and Reynolds, Shannon, Miller, Blinn, White & Cook. He also spent two years with Haskins & Sells, a public accounting firm (now Deloitte & Touché). His career focused on buying and selling companies with emphasis on technology acquisitions and securities matters pertaining to public company clients. Hammer received his Doctor of Jurisprudence from the Texas Tech University School of Law and his Bachelor of Business Administration in accounting from Texas Tech University. Hammer is a licensed attorney (TX Lic. #08854600) and a certified public accountant (TX Lic. #014233).
Kevin Hodes
For nearly two decades, Kevin Hodes’ company Swypit has taken pride in bringing honesty and integrity to the world of credit card processing.
Swypit aims to be more than just another service. Their goal is to become a trusted partner, helping to positively impact the merchant's bottom line. In an industry rife with providers more focused on selling or leasing equipment than building relationships, Swypit is different. They ensure customers always know that they are more than just a number.
Swypit provides world-class service as well as some of the most competitive rates in the industry. How much do their terminals cost? Nothing! The company provides merchants with credit card terminals, discounted point-of-sale and even cash advances to customers they choose to partner with… no catch.
Owner Kevin Hodes is a two time best-selling author and the Executive Producer of, “Maximum Achievement, The Brian Tracy Story.” His expertise in the credit card processing industry is frequently sought out from all over the country and has been on NBC, ABC, CBS & FOX. Staying active in the community and giving back is important to Mr. Hodes - he is an avid supporter of helping families of fallen soldiers with The American Fallen Soldier Project.
Swypit aims to be more than just another service. Their goal is to become a trusted partner, helping to positively impact the merchant's bottom line. In an industry rife with providers more focused on selling or leasing equipment than building relationships, Swypit is different. They ensure customers always know that they are more than just a number.
Swypit provides world-class service as well as some of the most competitive rates in the industry. How much do their terminals cost? Nothing! The company provides merchants with credit card terminals, discounted point-of-sale and even cash advances to customers they choose to partner with… no catch.
Owner Kevin Hodes is a two time best-selling author and the Executive Producer of, “Maximum Achievement, The Brian Tracy Story.” His expertise in the credit card processing industry is frequently sought out from all over the country and has been on NBC, ABC, CBS & FOX. Staying active in the community and giving back is important to Mr. Hodes - he is an avid supporter of helping families of fallen soldiers with The American Fallen Soldier Project.
Greg Johnson
Greg Johnson has always had a compassion for helping others improve their quality of life and has been an active leader within his community for over 30 years. In 1996, he returned to college, earning a degree in Interpreting for the Deaf. He then began working on a degree in Psychology with the goal of becoming a family counselor, specializing in families with deaf members.
During the interim, he was offered a position at a Dallas-based publication, Philanthropy in Texas magazine, where he served as Vice President for 5 years. In 2004, he left the magazine to pursue a career in real estate. In 2005, he founded Night of Superstars, an "Academy Awards" style charity event that honors special needs students and young adults for their unimaginable accomplishments that defy their challenges.
These Superstars excel in areas such as academics, athletics, the arts and community service.
What was intended to be a one-time event with 100 guests and 12 Superstars is now hosted in multiple cities with 800+ guests in attendance! Since 2005, over 300 special needs students and young adults have been honored.
Today, Night of Superstars is no longer just an unforgettable one-time event. In fact, it's only the beginning for the Superstars! Greg's goal now is to utilize his vast network of business and community leaders to assist these Superstars in reaching their maximum potential from high school to well into their careers through their new initiatives, which include the Superstar College Scholarship Fund and their Entrepreneurial & Mentor Programs.
Greg is married to Felicia Johnson and they have a real estate team, appropriately named "The Star Group." While Greg focuses on expanding Night of Superstars, Felicia remains a top producer at JP & Associates Realtors, a national real estate firm with over 1000 agents. In 2016, she ranked #4 within the agency.
During the interim, he was offered a position at a Dallas-based publication, Philanthropy in Texas magazine, where he served as Vice President for 5 years. In 2004, he left the magazine to pursue a career in real estate. In 2005, he founded Night of Superstars, an "Academy Awards" style charity event that honors special needs students and young adults for their unimaginable accomplishments that defy their challenges.
These Superstars excel in areas such as academics, athletics, the arts and community service.
What was intended to be a one-time event with 100 guests and 12 Superstars is now hosted in multiple cities with 800+ guests in attendance! Since 2005, over 300 special needs students and young adults have been honored.
Today, Night of Superstars is no longer just an unforgettable one-time event. In fact, it's only the beginning for the Superstars! Greg's goal now is to utilize his vast network of business and community leaders to assist these Superstars in reaching their maximum potential from high school to well into their careers through their new initiatives, which include the Superstar College Scholarship Fund and their Entrepreneurial & Mentor Programs.
Greg is married to Felicia Johnson and they have a real estate team, appropriately named "The Star Group." While Greg focuses on expanding Night of Superstars, Felicia remains a top producer at JP & Associates Realtors, a national real estate firm with over 1000 agents. In 2016, she ranked #4 within the agency.
Brad Kearney
Passionate about leadership development and strategic planning, Brad Kearney helps individuals achieve and accelerate the future they desire. He brings 30+ years of diverse experience successfully developing leaders and building effective strategic plans which generate significant and measurable results.
As President of CBK3 Consulting, he partners with clients to help them determine where they want to go and how to get there. Brad helps them develop and manage strategic, cultural, and structural changes within their organizations. Through alignment of their plan, people, and systems they gain a competitive edge.
A USAF Academy graduate and Desert Storm veteran, Brad served around the world flying the F-16. While on active duty he completed his MBA with Embry-Riddle University. He had the privilege of commanding an F-16 squadron where his team of warriors maximized combat readiness with minimal experience levels.
After retiring from the USAF, Brad worked at Lockheed Martin Aeronautics Company, Fort Worth Texas. He guided senior leadership across company teams to develop unified and effective strategies for major, multi-billion dollar fighter programs. Additionally, he directly supported two major international F-35 campaigns which Lockheed Martin won. In his last position, he rapidly unified a newly formed team & strategically set the vision, developed plans, and empowered his team to create discriminating innovations and win new customers for numerous programs.
Brad resides with his wife of 27 years in Sanger, TX and they have four children. He is active in his church, is a Rotarian, and thoroughly enjoys helping individuals overcome obstacles and successfully achieve their dreams with full confidence!
As President of CBK3 Consulting, he partners with clients to help them determine where they want to go and how to get there. Brad helps them develop and manage strategic, cultural, and structural changes within their organizations. Through alignment of their plan, people, and systems they gain a competitive edge.
A USAF Academy graduate and Desert Storm veteran, Brad served around the world flying the F-16. While on active duty he completed his MBA with Embry-Riddle University. He had the privilege of commanding an F-16 squadron where his team of warriors maximized combat readiness with minimal experience levels.
After retiring from the USAF, Brad worked at Lockheed Martin Aeronautics Company, Fort Worth Texas. He guided senior leadership across company teams to develop unified and effective strategies for major, multi-billion dollar fighter programs. Additionally, he directly supported two major international F-35 campaigns which Lockheed Martin won. In his last position, he rapidly unified a newly formed team & strategically set the vision, developed plans, and empowered his team to create discriminating innovations and win new customers for numerous programs.
Brad resides with his wife of 27 years in Sanger, TX and they have four children. He is active in his church, is a Rotarian, and thoroughly enjoys helping individuals overcome obstacles and successfully achieve their dreams with full confidence!
John Keenan
John is an executive coach and consultant with over 35 years of executive management and leadership expertise in the areas of transportation, logistics, engineering and operations management. His experience as President and COO of a publicly traded Transportation and Logistics Company and as the CEO of a start up company provides clients with a focus on current issues, challenges, and opportunities. John’s experience successfully leading and influencing a large geographically diverse company has given him a solid foundation to consult and advise others in organizational effectiveness and leadership development.
John brings a unique blend of practical experience to his executive coaching and consulting practice by succeeding as a corporate officer for a Fortune 500 company as well as being one of the three leaders of the executive team taking a company public following private equity ownership. John’s leadership experience and the administrative challenges in his executive management role as well as experience directly dealing with institutional investors, Wall Street and a diverse Board of Directors is invaluable in assisting clients with real world challenges.
As an executive coach and business consultant, his areas of expertise include: Logistics and Transportation, Logistics Technology, Government Services, Board Advisement, Executive Coaching, Talent Development, and Team Coaching and Facilitation.
John has a Bachelor of Engineering Degree from the State University of New York and an MBA from the University of Tennessee. He is an accredited Certified Professional & Executive Coach from the College of Executive Coaching.
John brings a unique blend of practical experience to his executive coaching and consulting practice by succeeding as a corporate officer for a Fortune 500 company as well as being one of the three leaders of the executive team taking a company public following private equity ownership. John’s leadership experience and the administrative challenges in his executive management role as well as experience directly dealing with institutional investors, Wall Street and a diverse Board of Directors is invaluable in assisting clients with real world challenges.
As an executive coach and business consultant, his areas of expertise include: Logistics and Transportation, Logistics Technology, Government Services, Board Advisement, Executive Coaching, Talent Development, and Team Coaching and Facilitation.
John has a Bachelor of Engineering Degree from the State University of New York and an MBA from the University of Tennessee. He is an accredited Certified Professional & Executive Coach from the College of Executive Coaching.
Tammy Kling
Tammy Kling is a Writer, Author, and Publishing Strategy Coach. As a seasoned and experienced ghostwriter, she is hired by publishers, professional athletes, CEOs, entrepreneurs and celebrities. Tammy’s own book, The Compass, is a global bestseller in 26 countries and her work has been featured on Dateline NBC, Primetime 20/20, on Oprah radio, in the Huffington Post and the New York Times among others. Tammy guides leaders through the process of creating a legacy.
She is the international author and editor of over 3,500 books, some which have been published in Israel, China, Brazil, Germany, London, France, Bulgaria, Holland, Italy, Portugal and many other countries across the world.
"One of the best traits of a professional ghostwriter is the ability to understand sales and human psychology. I have a journalism and advertising and communications degree. But that's not the most valuable aspect of a writer. Bestselling books are created through a collaboration of brilliant minds, when you truly understand how to engage and ignite your audience."
Visit www.tammykling.com and www.onfirebooks.com for more information.
She is the international author and editor of over 3,500 books, some which have been published in Israel, China, Brazil, Germany, London, France, Bulgaria, Holland, Italy, Portugal and many other countries across the world.
"One of the best traits of a professional ghostwriter is the ability to understand sales and human psychology. I have a journalism and advertising and communications degree. But that's not the most valuable aspect of a writer. Bestselling books are created through a collaboration of brilliant minds, when you truly understand how to engage and ignite your audience."
Visit www.tammykling.com and www.onfirebooks.com for more information.
Matt Lampe, DVM
Dr, Lampe grew up in a horse family where his parents were involved in thoroughbred horse racing and extended family was heavily involved in the cutting horse world. He attended Oklahoma University where he received his BS in Zoology prior to doing behavioral research aimed at a masters. Dr, Lampe was admitted to OSU Veterinary medical school where he earned his Doctor of Veterinary medicine degree in 2002.
Upon graduation he took an associate position in an athletic horse practice located in the DFW area. He developed and expanded their scope into the sport horse market during the next eight years.
In 2010, Dr. Lampe departed to open his own practice, Absolute equine, which is a significant participant in the north Texas horse community. They are a practice dedicated to the effective use of technology for both client confidence and value in diagnosis and treatment of sport horses.
Upon graduation he took an associate position in an athletic horse practice located in the DFW area. He developed and expanded their scope into the sport horse market during the next eight years.
In 2010, Dr. Lampe departed to open his own practice, Absolute equine, which is a significant participant in the north Texas horse community. They are a practice dedicated to the effective use of technology for both client confidence and value in diagnosis and treatment of sport horses.
Michael "Mike" Lawshe
G. Michael Lawshe has a diverse background in management, finance, operations, and sales & marketing in various industries from commercial electronics, aviation, construction services, to corporate finance and mergers & acquisitions for various private and public companies. Mr. Lawshe has served as a Member of the Board for various companies and is also an advisor to several private equity firms and family investment offices.
During his career he served as an associate with a boutique investment-banking group providing corporate financial advisory services, a member of a turnaround-consulting team assisting troubled companies with corporate restructuring, strategic planning, disposition of assets, debt restructuring and litigation support. He was also an analyst on a corporate finance team for a publicly-traded holding company with interests in waste management, propane distribution and franchise operations. His M&A activities included identifying prospective acquisition targets, performing due diligence on target companies, market analysis, strategic planning, financing, SEC & NASD compliance reporting and post-acquisition integration.
Mr. Lawshe was employed in the Commercial Electronics industry for over 20 years as a senior executive and is now Chairman/CEO of MVSystems, a low-voltage systems integration company, which is a third-generation "Lawshe" family business. In addition, he serves as Manager Director of Avalon Securities, a private investment banking firm based in New York City and manages the Texas office in Dallas.
Mr. Lawshe was a candidate for the Texas House of Representatives in 2002 and was narrowly defeated in the Republican Primary. and continues to be active in national & state politics. In 1981, he served as a Congressional Intern for the U.S. House of Representatives in Washington D.C
Mr. Lawshe retired from the U.S. Army in 2008 with a rank of Lt. Colonel, serving on Active Duty and in the Texas Army National Guard for 24 years. Mr. Lawshe honorably served in various military operations in Kuwait, Iraq, Afghanistan, and New Orleans as a result of Hurricane Katrina & Hurricane Rita and is a graduate of the U.S. Army Command & General Staff College.
During his career he served as an associate with a boutique investment-banking group providing corporate financial advisory services, a member of a turnaround-consulting team assisting troubled companies with corporate restructuring, strategic planning, disposition of assets, debt restructuring and litigation support. He was also an analyst on a corporate finance team for a publicly-traded holding company with interests in waste management, propane distribution and franchise operations. His M&A activities included identifying prospective acquisition targets, performing due diligence on target companies, market analysis, strategic planning, financing, SEC & NASD compliance reporting and post-acquisition integration.
Mr. Lawshe was employed in the Commercial Electronics industry for over 20 years as a senior executive and is now Chairman/CEO of MVSystems, a low-voltage systems integration company, which is a third-generation "Lawshe" family business. In addition, he serves as Manager Director of Avalon Securities, a private investment banking firm based in New York City and manages the Texas office in Dallas.
Mr. Lawshe was a candidate for the Texas House of Representatives in 2002 and was narrowly defeated in the Republican Primary. and continues to be active in national & state politics. In 1981, he served as a Congressional Intern for the U.S. House of Representatives in Washington D.C
Mr. Lawshe retired from the U.S. Army in 2008 with a rank of Lt. Colonel, serving on Active Duty and in the Texas Army National Guard for 24 years. Mr. Lawshe honorably served in various military operations in Kuwait, Iraq, Afghanistan, and New Orleans as a result of Hurricane Katrina & Hurricane Rita and is a graduate of the U.S. Army Command & General Staff College.
Daren Martin
Dr. Daren Martin was born in Louisiana but spent most of his growing up years in Bangkok, Thailand. He started an and ran his own company while working on his Master's degree and eventually his PhD in Psychology. After 20 years of running his own business he sold his company and began consulting Fortune 500 companies on Leadership, Company Culture, Sales Psychology and other topics. He has three grown children and was recently remarried.
Dr. Daren Martin is the author of the bestselling A Company of Owners: Maximizing Employee Engagement and the hand drawn/written Whiteboard: Business Models That Inspire Action, as well as Beached Whale: Learning to Swim in the New Ocean and The Sink. A Company of Owners has been called, "The best book I have read since Good to Great" by several C Level Executives. Whiteboard is being published in Thailand and was a favorite of the late great Leonard Cohen.
Dr. Martin's thought leadership and change strategies in transforming companies earned him the title The Culture Architect. He acts as a Trusted Advisor to business leaders at companies ranging from Fortune 500 to small businesses to create Owner Cultures.
You can hear his business musings on his podcast The Daren Martin Show.
Dr. Daren Martin is the author of the bestselling A Company of Owners: Maximizing Employee Engagement and the hand drawn/written Whiteboard: Business Models That Inspire Action, as well as Beached Whale: Learning to Swim in the New Ocean and The Sink. A Company of Owners has been called, "The best book I have read since Good to Great" by several C Level Executives. Whiteboard is being published in Thailand and was a favorite of the late great Leonard Cohen.
Dr. Martin's thought leadership and change strategies in transforming companies earned him the title The Culture Architect. He acts as a Trusted Advisor to business leaders at companies ranging from Fortune 500 to small businesses to create Owner Cultures.
You can hear his business musings on his podcast The Daren Martin Show.
Sean Matheis
The foremost expert in social media marketing and lead generation. Sean has worked alongside some of the most influential business reality TV personalities, celebrities, and pro-athletes. Sean started his career mastering the art of lead generation on social media for the insurance, mortgage, and real estate industries and has worked with dozens of other industries along the way. Sean's clients have seen profits increase as much as 150% in just 8 weeks. Many of Sean's clients experience a 300% + ROI. When it comes to increasing lead flow to your business Sean is the undisputed king of marketing.
Sean started his consulting business in late 2013 with The Agency Alliance Mastermind program. This Insurance Mastermind took the insurance industry by storm and quickly became the #1 Insurance program in the county. Shortly after The Agency Alliance was launched Sean created The Millionaire Masterminds as a platform to host celebrity speaking engagements, celebrity hosted masterminds, and corporate bookings for celebrity clients. In just 6 months this company became the industry leader for celebrity training programs.
" I built my business on results for my clients. I pride myself on 100% success rates in every program I have ever created. If I can't help you then we simply will not work together. I don't believe in wasting your time or mine. I live and breathe to watch my clients get massive results." Sean Matheis
Sean offers Corporate Speaking Engagements, 1 on 1 marketing consulting sessions, Insurance Mastermind Programs, as well as Real Estate Social Media Masterminds and Mortgage Social Media Masterminds.
Sean started his consulting business in late 2013 with The Agency Alliance Mastermind program. This Insurance Mastermind took the insurance industry by storm and quickly became the #1 Insurance program in the county. Shortly after The Agency Alliance was launched Sean created The Millionaire Masterminds as a platform to host celebrity speaking engagements, celebrity hosted masterminds, and corporate bookings for celebrity clients. In just 6 months this company became the industry leader for celebrity training programs.
" I built my business on results for my clients. I pride myself on 100% success rates in every program I have ever created. If I can't help you then we simply will not work together. I don't believe in wasting your time or mine. I live and breathe to watch my clients get massive results." Sean Matheis
Sean offers Corporate Speaking Engagements, 1 on 1 marketing consulting sessions, Insurance Mastermind Programs, as well as Real Estate Social Media Masterminds and Mortgage Social Media Masterminds.
Wes Melcher
Wes Melcher has been an entrepreneur from early childhood, starting three businesses before even graduating high school, and over a half a dozen since then. Wes has consulted for both start-up, and established companies in the United States, Australia and New Zealand. Wes has trained and coached in excess of one million people across the world over the last 19 years, and his passion for travel led him to the travel industry 12 years ago where he has consulted, trained and helped develop sales strategies and marketing programs for several companies. Wes helped start one of the fastest growing companies in the Network Marketing Industry in 2005, and that company is now in the DSN Global Top 100 Companies.
He has been one of the company’s Top Income Earners for ten years out of over one million representatives. His current team is in excess of 195,000 people in 20 different Countries. Wes is a sought after speaker and trainer in Direct Sales, Network Marketing, and Business. His first book “NetEASY Marketing” was released in 2012, and hit Number One on the Amazon Best Seller List in Network Marketing. Wes also built Double Infinity Ranch which is one of the largest Thoroughbred horse facilities in the state of Texas. He is also the youngest board member for the Texas Thoroughbred Association which oversees the entire Thoroughbred Industry in the state of Texas. Wes currently lives in Dallas, Texas with his daughter Jianna.
He has been one of the company’s Top Income Earners for ten years out of over one million representatives. His current team is in excess of 195,000 people in 20 different Countries. Wes is a sought after speaker and trainer in Direct Sales, Network Marketing, and Business. His first book “NetEASY Marketing” was released in 2012, and hit Number One on the Amazon Best Seller List in Network Marketing. Wes also built Double Infinity Ranch which is one of the largest Thoroughbred horse facilities in the state of Texas. He is also the youngest board member for the Texas Thoroughbred Association which oversees the entire Thoroughbred Industry in the state of Texas. Wes currently lives in Dallas, Texas with his daughter Jianna.
Stewart Mercer
A seasoned senior executive manager, entrepreneur, and founder of several US companies with domestic and international partners and customers, Stewart Mercer has a decidedly entrepreneurial bent, having started, grew, operated, and successfully sold 4 businesses. With 40 years of business management expertise - including sales, marketing, engineering, and operations - Mr. Mercer is broadly experienced in both domestic (USA) business and has enjoyed great success selling into and developing international markets.
Much of Mercer's experience involves highly technical equipment, including "flight safety critical" included aviation components sold into a highly regulated environment. Mercer is also experienced in initiating businesses with little initial capital, and growing them organically and internally to multi-million dollar enterprises, and real estate investment including commercial and senior living housing projects.
A patron of the arts, Mr. Mercer has help support a number of Broadway productions including Desire Under the Elms, The Addams Family, RACE, Seagull, Catch Me If You Can, and the touring company of The Addams Family. He's also an active supporter of the Dallas Symphony Orchestra and the Texas SPCA. Born and schooled in New York, with long term residence in California, Colorado, Florida, Mercer has been a proud "Dallasite" for the past 20 years and enjoys extensive domestic and international travel, for personal and professional pursuits.
Much of Mercer's experience involves highly technical equipment, including "flight safety critical" included aviation components sold into a highly regulated environment. Mercer is also experienced in initiating businesses with little initial capital, and growing them organically and internally to multi-million dollar enterprises, and real estate investment including commercial and senior living housing projects.
A patron of the arts, Mr. Mercer has help support a number of Broadway productions including Desire Under the Elms, The Addams Family, RACE, Seagull, Catch Me If You Can, and the touring company of The Addams Family. He's also an active supporter of the Dallas Symphony Orchestra and the Texas SPCA. Born and schooled in New York, with long term residence in California, Colorado, Florida, Mercer has been a proud "Dallasite" for the past 20 years and enjoys extensive domestic and international travel, for personal and professional pursuits.
Tom Meyer
Thomas Meyer is the founding President and Principal of Thomas E Meyer & Associates, founded in 1985. Mr. Meyer has been a business advisor and consultant for over 25 years. He is an expert at growing mid-market companies by strategic planning and execution, cash management, and people decisions; sales force hiring and training; and helping clients achieve enterprise transformation through process improvement. He is a Certified Gazelles International Coach, and has provided management coaching and mentoring to CEOs, COOs, Admirals, and Senior Level Executives in the US and China.
His clients have included EDS, Data Products Corp, Olivetti, the US Navy, Clipsal (a major supplier of electrical products in Hong Kong), Hengan (a large manufacturer of paper products in China), AMTRAK, and a number of mid-market fast growth Gazelle companies including Baker Brothers Plumbing in Dallas.
Mr. Meyer’s consulting experience has included: Independent Consultant to Booz-Allen Hamilton in the area of Supply Chain and process change implementation; Managing Director of BDO Seidman Consulting Corporate Advisors, LLC for Dallas; Results Manager for Thomas Group, Inc.; and the Texas Representative for Cassidy & Associates in Texas serving the Dallas, Fort Worth, and Austin Markets, providing clients with US Government financing and marketing to government agencies.
Mr. Meyer’s Naval career began as a graduate of the US Naval Academy, where he graduated with honors. Following seven years aboard SSBN and Nuclear Attack Submarines, he attended and received his MBA from the Harvard University School of Business with majors in Marketing and Finance.
His clients have included EDS, Data Products Corp, Olivetti, the US Navy, Clipsal (a major supplier of electrical products in Hong Kong), Hengan (a large manufacturer of paper products in China), AMTRAK, and a number of mid-market fast growth Gazelle companies including Baker Brothers Plumbing in Dallas.
Mr. Meyer’s consulting experience has included: Independent Consultant to Booz-Allen Hamilton in the area of Supply Chain and process change implementation; Managing Director of BDO Seidman Consulting Corporate Advisors, LLC for Dallas; Results Manager for Thomas Group, Inc.; and the Texas Representative for Cassidy & Associates in Texas serving the Dallas, Fort Worth, and Austin Markets, providing clients with US Government financing and marketing to government agencies.
Mr. Meyer’s Naval career began as a graduate of the US Naval Academy, where he graduated with honors. Following seven years aboard SSBN and Nuclear Attack Submarines, he attended and received his MBA from the Harvard University School of Business with majors in Marketing and Finance.
Abe Minkara
Abe Minkara is the Director of Business Development for Mark Cuban Companies. Abe also oversees the portfolio of Shark Tank and CPG companies at Mark Cuban Companies. Abe also manages a team that supports these companies with accounting, business operations, ecommerce, sales, and marketing services. He received his MBA from the Cox School of Business at Southern Methodist University in Dallas, Texas.
Dr. Christopher Penney
Dr. Penney teaches entrepreneurship, family business, and strategic management courses at the College of Business at the University of North Texas. He earned his PhD from Florida State University. At UNT, he is the advisor for the family business student club and leads students to compete at the family business case competition each January in Vermont. His research focuses on family businesses, alliance portfolios, and firm diversification. His work has been published in Entrepreneurship Theory & Practice and Journal of Small Business Management. He moved to Texas in the Summer of 2014 and regularly commutes from Dallas to Denton. In his spare time, he works with young professional organizations centered around economic development and transportation in Downtown Dallas.
JP Piccinini
JP Piccinini is an entrepreneur, philanthropist, proud dad and the Founder, Broker andOwner of JP and Associates REALTORs - a real estate brokerage firm dedicated to exceeding expectations, training and hiring only full time, career real estate professionals who share the same passions for real estate and helping others as JP does.
He is a veteran of the real estate industry having started his career in South Carolina where he quickly became the top selling agent in his market after just a few years in the business. After several years as a REALTOR and hundreds of deals his journey took him back home to Dallas where he started JP and Associates REALTORs in October of 2011. Mr. Piccinini quickly grew JP and Associates REALTORS (JPAR) to be one of the top brokerages in the US according to REAL TRENDS 2016 report with sales exceeding the billion dollar mark. JPAR is now one of the fastest growing brokerages nationwide expanding quickly across the US.
Prior to real estate JP crossed the globe as a project manager and engineer for fortune 500 companies both in the aerospace and consumer goods sectors. He attributes his success in real estate to the corporate training and methodology instilled in him early in his professional career. He holds a Bachelor of Science in engineering and is a graduate of Midwestern State University. Having been raised in Texas, JP and his family now live in DFW a place they proudly call home.
Mr. Piccinini and family are also avid supporters and donors of children charities such as Youth Athletes foundation, City House homeless shelter and several other charitable organizations.
He is a veteran of the real estate industry having started his career in South Carolina where he quickly became the top selling agent in his market after just a few years in the business. After several years as a REALTOR and hundreds of deals his journey took him back home to Dallas where he started JP and Associates REALTORs in October of 2011. Mr. Piccinini quickly grew JP and Associates REALTORS (JPAR) to be one of the top brokerages in the US according to REAL TRENDS 2016 report with sales exceeding the billion dollar mark. JPAR is now one of the fastest growing brokerages nationwide expanding quickly across the US.
Prior to real estate JP crossed the globe as a project manager and engineer for fortune 500 companies both in the aerospace and consumer goods sectors. He attributes his success in real estate to the corporate training and methodology instilled in him early in his professional career. He holds a Bachelor of Science in engineering and is a graduate of Midwestern State University. Having been raised in Texas, JP and his family now live in DFW a place they proudly call home.
Mr. Piccinini and family are also avid supporters and donors of children charities such as Youth Athletes foundation, City House homeless shelter and several other charitable organizations.
Alex Pomelnikov
Alex Pomelnikov, Co-Founder and Managing Director of Worldpreneur, is an entrepreneur in the finance and economics industry. A visiting lecturer at the School of Management at Texas Women’s University and SMC University, Alex has delivered talks to organizations and universities across the globe. His vast background in finance with private equity firms includes hedge fund management, venture capital consulting and the identification, evaluation, negotiation and facilitation of international investments.
Alex is a seasoned strategist who has led negotiations with investors, investment bankers and asset managers, assisting partners in various aspects of strategic planning, partnerships, and due diligence. He is an active investor who has evaluated hundreds of projects ranging from $1 million to $500 million, resulting in over $60 million in successful investments. In addition, he owns four international businesses.
Alex actively pursues his lifelong love of learning through reading, traveling the world, and healthy living.
Alex is a seasoned strategist who has led negotiations with investors, investment bankers and asset managers, assisting partners in various aspects of strategic planning, partnerships, and due diligence. He is an active investor who has evaluated hundreds of projects ranging from $1 million to $500 million, resulting in over $60 million in successful investments. In addition, he owns four international businesses.
Alex actively pursues his lifelong love of learning through reading, traveling the world, and healthy living.
Jay D. Rodgers
Jay D. Rodgers has been and continues to be active in the formation of entrepreneurial enterprises. Additionally, he serves as an adviser to several companies. His involvement normally includes vision, funding, strategic planning, and exit dealings. The following are some of the companies Jay has nurtured to success: Family Staffing Solutions, Inc, Superior Recharge Systems, Inc., Elderly Services, Inc., Smart Start, Inc., Dee Ring, Inc., Tri-C Business Forms, Inc., United Commerce Bank, Physician Staffing Resources, Inc., Healthcare Staff Resources, Inc., and Ranchland, Inc.
After graduating in 1960 from the University of Iowa with a bachelor’s degree in Business Administration, Jay spent eight years with Eastman Kodak before venturing out on his own. In 1993, he completed the three-year Owners/President Management (OPM) Program at Harvard. He has served as a guest lecturer at SMU on “Managing the Entrepreneurial Business” and taught the “Starting Your Own Business” course at University of North Texas. At 70, Mr. Rodgers’ give back is volunteering a great deal of his time to mentor committed entrepreneurs.
After graduating in 1960 from the University of Iowa with a bachelor’s degree in Business Administration, Jay spent eight years with Eastman Kodak before venturing out on his own. In 1993, he completed the three-year Owners/President Management (OPM) Program at Harvard. He has served as a guest lecturer at SMU on “Managing the Entrepreneurial Business” and taught the “Starting Your Own Business” course at University of North Texas. At 70, Mr. Rodgers’ give back is volunteering a great deal of his time to mentor committed entrepreneurs.
Evan Sanchez
Evan Sanchez helps grow the top line by developing the mind-sets, tool sets, and skill sets necessary to create massive growth and empower business owners and sales professionals.
Utilizing ground breaking high performance thinking algorithms and sales culture engineering programs he and his team of Springboard Consultants can turn any organization’s B and C players into a team of high performing A player talent. With more than 25 years as a personal trainer, a former member of semi-professional Albuquerque Gunners soccer team, and a highly sought after business consultant, Sanchez knows all about setting goals and the champion mindset that makes one achieve new levels of success. In addition to a bachelor’s degree in psychology from the University of North Texas, he’s been the owner or co-owner of four businesses, senior consultant and director of sales and marketing for the prestigious global consulting firm Kepner-Tregoe, sales manager at LandAmerica American Title (A Fortune 500 Company), and sales director at The Dallas Business Journal, where he was named employee of the Year in 2003 for single-handedly growing the bureau office by 16% when the market was down 30% due to the tech bubble bust.
Utilizing ground breaking high performance thinking algorithms and sales culture engineering programs he and his team of Springboard Consultants can turn any organization’s B and C players into a team of high performing A player talent. With more than 25 years as a personal trainer, a former member of semi-professional Albuquerque Gunners soccer team, and a highly sought after business consultant, Sanchez knows all about setting goals and the champion mindset that makes one achieve new levels of success. In addition to a bachelor’s degree in psychology from the University of North Texas, he’s been the owner or co-owner of four businesses, senior consultant and director of sales and marketing for the prestigious global consulting firm Kepner-Tregoe, sales manager at LandAmerica American Title (A Fortune 500 Company), and sales director at The Dallas Business Journal, where he was named employee of the Year in 2003 for single-handedly growing the bureau office by 16% when the market was down 30% due to the tech bubble bust.
Scott Schilling
Scott Schilling is committed to providing inspired answers to today's challenges through his TV show, podcasts, speaking, training, consulting and coaching. Scott helps individuals and organizations systematically grow personally, professionally, financially and spiritually. No matter where you are in your path from survival to success to significance, Scott gives the guidance, direction, actions and steps necessary to get from where you are to where you want to be!
Scott brings a unique combination of 35+ years of life and business experience in sales, marketing and training to corporations, business owners, entrepreneurs and individuals. He has presented at nearly 2,000 live events sharing the stage with General Colin Powell, Rudy Giuliani, former first lady Laura Bush and many more.
As an internationally accomplished and entertaining presenter, Scott has spoken to hundreds of thousands of attendees across a range of industries. Scott brings a wealth of knowledge and expertise to the airwaves, board room, podium and print. Scott has written 10 books to date including the recently released "Without Customers ... Ya Got Nothin'!"
Scott is a highly sought-after significance expert because of the results he produces. His training propelled one client's business to grow from approximately $8 million annually to almost $80 million in just under six years.
Schilling earned his B.B.A. in Marketing and Insurance from the University of Iowa.
Scotts feels extremely blessed to be able to follow his heart and passion to help others through sharing years of experience across a range of industries. When asked what he does, the short answer is: “I help people, help people!” After spending more than thirty years in the sales, marketing, training, management, and speaking arenas, Scott is uniquely qualified to help individuals and organizations achieve the success they desire. With vast experience over a range of industries, his value-added conceptual expertise in all aspects of business shouts out loud and clear.
Scott brings a unique combination of 35+ years of life and business experience in sales, marketing and training to corporations, business owners, entrepreneurs and individuals. He has presented at nearly 2,000 live events sharing the stage with General Colin Powell, Rudy Giuliani, former first lady Laura Bush and many more.
As an internationally accomplished and entertaining presenter, Scott has spoken to hundreds of thousands of attendees across a range of industries. Scott brings a wealth of knowledge and expertise to the airwaves, board room, podium and print. Scott has written 10 books to date including the recently released "Without Customers ... Ya Got Nothin'!"
Scott is a highly sought-after significance expert because of the results he produces. His training propelled one client's business to grow from approximately $8 million annually to almost $80 million in just under six years.
Schilling earned his B.B.A. in Marketing and Insurance from the University of Iowa.
Scotts feels extremely blessed to be able to follow his heart and passion to help others through sharing years of experience across a range of industries. When asked what he does, the short answer is: “I help people, help people!” After spending more than thirty years in the sales, marketing, training, management, and speaking arenas, Scott is uniquely qualified to help individuals and organizations achieve the success they desire. With vast experience over a range of industries, his value-added conceptual expertise in all aspects of business shouts out loud and clear.
Erin Smith
Erin Smith is the founder of the Entrepreneur Summit and The Starters Club. She’s been an entrepreneur for over 15 years, starting in real estate. She then went on to start and sell two other businesses with her secret to fast growth being the ability to generate leads online and easily track ROI. She now consults with companies teaching them how to implement systems and use various online lead generation tools (i.e. Facebook Ads) to get fast results for much less money than traditional marketing.
She is also a podcast host, speaker, mother of 2, and best-selling author. You can learn more at www.thestartersclub.com.
She is also a podcast host, speaker, mother of 2, and best-selling author. You can learn more at www.thestartersclub.com.
