Critical Mass Business Talk Show | Orange County’s Longest-Running Business Talk Show

Scott Hamilton, President and CEO of Executive Next Practice Institute joins our show to explain the concept of "Next Practices" and how he applies the power of peer learning to Executive Next Practice Institute. Scott will also discuss the meaning behind Neuroleadership and how other firms can grow and benefit through the use of this innovative idea. Sabrina Irsay , Community Development Manager for the Greater Los Angeles/Orange County Area Chapter of Crohn's & Colitis Foundation of America discusses the second annual CCFA Bocce Invitational at Il Fornaio on August 23, 2013. There will be bocce ball, live jazz, beer and cocktails; proceeds will benefit the Crohn's & Colitis Foundation of America.

Wayne Breitbarth, Author of The Powerful Formula for LinkedIn Success joins our show to discuss the recent changes to LinkedIn and which of these changes are helpful and which just cause frustration. Wayne will explain what a novice LinkedIn user should focus on when setting up their new profile and what will help them stand out from the crowd. Christopher Buckstein, Director of The Entrepreneurship Village at Chapman University discusses the resources the Entrepreneurship Village at Chapman University offers to student and non-student entrepreneurs. The Entrepreneurship Village has formed a couple key partnerships and expects even greater physical and network growth within the next 5 years.

Ed McClements, Senior Vice President-Benefits of Barkley Insurance and Risk Management discusses ObamaCare in depth and explains what it will cost to get insurance on the new California Exchange System. Barkley Insurance & Risk Management is one of the premier risk management consultants and insurance brokers in California. Glen Garrity, Founder of G2 Identity Management explains how a business can defend itself against identity fraud and what firms should look for when checking a job applicant's identification. G2 Identity Management helps protect businesses from identity fraud and teaches them what steps to take to reduce their liability.

Ron Viggiano, President of Austin Taylor, Inc. joins our show to discuss his inspiration behind starting a custom-made men's business and casual wardrobe company. Austin Taylor Inc. designs and delivers custom wardrobes for men with a unique, one-on-one consultative approach. Scott Hauge, President of CAL Insurance & Associates, Inc. discusses how his firm is connecting with their clients and potential clients through the use of their blogs: CAL Insurance Blog and Small Business California Blog. CAL Insurance & Associates, Inc is an independent insurance agency and an advocate for small business in San Francisco, California and the nation.

Vivian Clecak, Chief Executive Officer of Human Options discusses the services her organization provide to women and families suffering from domestic violence. Human Options aims to break the cycle of domestic violence through the use of community education programs for youth, violence prevention training programs for businesses, and medical and criminal justice professionals to motivate building a safer community. Maureen Carasiti, Director of WorkFirst joins our show to explain how her organization is helping individuals with disabilities get and keep paid employment or operate their own business. WorkFirst is a division of Easter Seals Southern California and creates Customized Employment to assist individuals in securing a job tailored to their unique talents.

Belinda Bain, Owner & President of Action Zipline Tours, Action Segway Tours, and Action Aqua Flight joins our show to discuss how she has managed to create many successful businesses throughout Southern California. Belinda created the first zipline tour in Southern California, which takes place the beautiful Big Bear Mountains. She is currently preparing for her newest business venture, Action Aqua Flight, which opens on July 10th in Dana Point.

Virginia Lorimor, Owner of WIN Opportunities joins our show to discuss how her firm, WIN Opportunities, improves the efficiency and profitability of small and mid-sized businesses. WIN Opportunities offers al la carte services, as well as complete business packages. Marcia Dávalos, Southern California Outreach Manager at Small Business Majority discusses how her organization can help mid market Orange County firms and the impact the Affordable Care Act will have on these businesses. Small Business Majority advocates for policies that create jobs and maximize business opportunities and cost savings in many different public policy areas.

Vicky Lee, Principal of Vision Mapping joins our show to discuss how she is helping business leaders and CEO's through the use of her step-by-step Vision Mapping program. Vicky focuses on getting her clients to have the "aha" moment, which helps them realize the new path to success they have been searching for. Laila Pence and Dryden Pence, LPL Registered Principals at Pence Wealth Management discuss how their firm goes beyond traditional wealth management firms and broadens their clients’ options by creating alternative investment options. Laila has been recognized by Barron’s Magazine as part of the top 1% of all financial advisers in the nation and #1 of the Wealth Managers in Orange County by the Orange County Business Journal.

Todd Cooper, CEO of NVISION Laser Eye Centers joins our show to discuss his leadership, strategy and vision of NVISION’s major expansion efforts. NVISION recently expanded into Northern California with the acquisition of Meister Eye & Laser Center and the Eye Surgery Center of Northern California.

Theresa Regli, Principal Analyst & Managing Director of The Real Story Group covers technology markets, focusing on digital & media asset management. Theresa uses her knowledge of digital & media asset management, enterprise search, and web content management to advise a multi-industry, worldwide customer base.

Deborah Dickson, President of Smith Dickson explains the impact of the tax code changes on small businesses. Deborah also shares with our audience some mitigating positive effects of changes in depreciation and other areas in the new tax code. Nancy Drew, Founder of Drew & Associates International discusses her two books, "25 Sales Success Strategies” and “How to Be the Best Salesperson in Your Company in 60 Days or Less – Guaranteed!”. Nancy is a business mentor and is a regular contributor for the San Diego Examiner as their sales expert.

Kristin Martin, Founder of Kristin Martin Productions joins our show to discuss how she transitioned from an elementary school teacher into owning her own high-end event production company. Kristin Martin Productions works with The American Liver Foundation, SOS Los Angeles, The Philharmonic Society, Mission Hospital, Project Hope Alliance, RARE Project, and Global Genes to produce many of their nonprofit events. Kristin's firm also produces the charity culinary event, Table for 10, for the Illumination Foundation.

Ralph Adamo, CEO & President of Integrity Wealth Management joins our show to discuss his article "Cultivating Warm Prospects on LinkedIn". In his article, he explains 3 techniques for using LinkedIn to your advantage and 5 insights and cautions based on firsthand experiences. Chris Dyer, CEO of PeopleG2 was recently nominated for the Excellence in Entrepreneurship Award by the Orange County Business Journal. After his nomination, Chris contacted his fellow nominees to receive insight and connections. Chris' firm creates risk management solutions for all human capital related transactions and decisions.

Daniel McQuaid, President of OneOC joins our show to discuss the role his organization plays in Orange County. OneOC provides Nonprofits throughout Orange County with volunteer, training, consulting, and business services. Since 2000, Mr. McQuaid has been retained as a consultant to more than 125 Southern California nonprofits, providing growth planning, evaluation and training services. Daniel Wu, 2013 Light The Night Corporate Walk Chair for The Leukemia and Lymphoma Society talks with host Richard Franzi about The Leukemia & Lymphoma Society's upcoming event, the 2013 Light The Night Walk. With help from events such as the Light The Night Walk, The Leukemia & Lymphoma Society has raised and invested more than $875 million in research aimed at helping all blood cancer patients live longer, healthy lives.

Jeff Green, Principal of PROXUS, LLC explains the role his firm plays in guiding companies through payroll, human resources, and employee benefits. PROXUS serves small and mid-sized organizations from a wide range of industries and markets.

David Wilson, Author of Visual Guide to Financial Markets joins host Richard Franzi to discuss his book and how understanding the financial markets could benefit business owners who have a lot of their investments tied-up in their business, rather than in the stock market. Mark Dubowe, Chairman of the Board at Education Works joins our show to discuss his education-based Nonprofit that provides comprehensive support for economically disadvantaged communities to help children succeed.

Mark Whitley, CEO and Kathleen Kolenda, OC Regional VP of Easter Seals join our show to discuss how their Non-Profit, Easter Seals, got its start. Easter Seals helps people with disabilities and special needs, and their families, live better lives by teaching them life skills and job skills. Stephen Christensen, Founder & Executive Director of Teen Entrepreneur Academy discusses his summer program, Teen Entrepreneur Academy, and how it is helping high school and college students prepare for a better future. Teen Entrepreneur Academy is a week-long residential summer camp at Concordia University that provides provides real-world business training that helps teenagers become leaders with ethics and integrity.

Brian Johnson, Author of Into The Black, A Tale of True American Pedigree joins our show to discuss his debut novel that portrays the story of Ken Briece, the fictitious love child of Ayn Rand and Dale Carnegie. Brian's story reminds us there is no greater definition of success than to live one’s life according to one’s own terms. Brian has started three companies, received many industry awards, and his company was named one of America's fastest growing companies by Inc. Magazine. Colin Baden, CEO of Oakley discusses the opening of the first-ever Oakley store inside a professional sporting venue that opened on April 9th inside Angels Stadium. The store features a sports-bar-like “custom bar”, where fans can work with an Oakley expert to create eye wear designed for their performance needs. The new store, located in Section 113, debuts Oakley’s MLB licensed Angels apparel, watches, accessories, performance sunglasses and more.

Rick Skidmore, President & CEO of Timberlane, Inc. talks with host Richard Franzi about how his business has managed to make a comeback after falling on hard times. Rick has been a member of CEO peer groups for over 12 years and believes they are beneficial because CEOs and business owners receive non-biased feedback from people that have had similar experiences and this helps to gain confidence in your professional decisions. Timberlane handcrafts top-quality shutters with a keen attention to detail to fit their customers' exact shutter request, all at an affordable price.

Donna Hoffmann, President of Women on Course joins our show to discuss her unique business and social golf events for women. Whether you can hit the ball as well as Annika Sorenstam or you are hitting a golf ball for the first time, Women on Course has something for you at every event. There are events held all over the United States at some of the best, most breathtaking golf courses around.

Dr. Raymond Sfeir, Vice Chancellor of Chapman University will joined our show to discuss the California and Orange County Purchasing Managers Survey conducted by Chapman University. The purchasing managers survey is conducted quarterly and analyzes the direction of manufacturing activity in the state and county. Dr. Sfeir will share with our audience some of the results from this survey. Rachel Owens of Succession Strategies continues her monthly feature by discussing the 4 key elements to success when starting your own company. Dr. Bill Dorfman, Cosmetic Dentist at Century City Aesthetic Dentistry discusses future trends in oral care and the new technology produced to reduce patient exposure to radiation during X-Rays. Dr. Dorfman is known as "America's Dentist" and his expertise is sought out by popular TV shows, such as "The Doctors" and "Extreme Makeover". Dr. Dorfman formed the hugely successful company, Discus Dental, Inc., which he later sold to widely recognized Philips Electronics.

Al Migliaccio, CEO & Founder of Jamis Sales Success talks with host Richard Franzi about a relatively new method of raising money for businesses, called "crowd funding". Al's firm, Jamis Sales Success, has consistently led emerging and early stage companies to correct the root cause of sales problems and build effective and efficient sales processes. Al's extensive experience enables him to relate well to his clients and their customers and customize a plan that will lead to success. Bart Mroz, CEO of Sumo Heavy Industries discusses Sumo's philosophy of creating and developing outstanding eCommerce projects for their clients. Sumo Heavy Industries is an eCommerce Design, Development and Consulting firm located in Philadelphia that helps build successful brands and create online retail solutions with proven results.

Bryan Gianesin, Attorney Founder of Gianesin Law Firm joins our show to discuss the seven common mistakes made by business owners. Gianesin Law Firm represents entrepreneurs, family businesses, closely-held companies, start-ups firms, emerging businesses, non-profit entities, and professional practices. Bryan has advised over 400 start-ups, entrepreneurs and business clients over the last 25 years. Grant Vollmer, Co-Founder of Original BOS discusses how a very personal experience led to the creation of his firm. Balls of Steel manufactures whiskey drink coolers made of medical grade stainless steel that cool your drink without diluting your whiskey. Grant's firm supports testicular cancer cure research and serves as the catalyst for a tight-knit community supporting men effected by testicular cancer.

Dan Lubeck, CEO of Solis Capital Partners joins our show to discuss the role private equity plays in helping small businesses unlock their true potential and how business owners can develop a framework to determine their firm's value. Solis Capital Partners is a lower middle-market private equity firm that prefers to invest in business service, manufacturing and value-added distribution companies. Dan will explain some of the criteria his firm looks at when deciding whether or not to invest in a business. Robert Saunders, Founder of College Storage & Student Services discusses how he grew his company through strategic partnerships with specific California Universities. College Storage and Student Services is a full-service storage and shipping company designed to simplify the collegiate moving experience. With a background in alternative fuel technologies, Saunders ensures that College Storage and Student Services does its part by working to reduce campuses’ carbon footprint by using recyclable materials and

Magaly Chocano, CEO and Founder of SWEB Development discusses how she built her company into a premier web and app development company during economic difficulties. With a passion for team building, Magaly has created a work environment around transparency in which her team is there because they love what they do and they collaborate well together. SWEB Development's clients include advertising agencies and Fortune 500 companies. David Fuller, CEO and President of Damage Entertainment and Creator & Executive Producer of Enter The Zone TV talks with host Richard Franzi about how he turned his passion for music into a business. David created Damage Entertainment so he could record and produce music he felt deserved listeners. David also hosts a televisions show called Enter The Zone TV which airs on Comcast Cable and is an Editor of ETZ Magazine.

Steve Rosol, President and CEO of Mars Air Systems discusses how his firm experienced business growth through exporting. Mars Air Systems manufactures high quality air curtains that protect building environments from energy loss and wind-borne dust, dirt and fumes, along with flying insects. Mars Air Systems just unveiled new branding to celebrate their Golden Anniversary, and is looking forward to 50 more golden years. Jason Lucash, Co-Founder of OrigAudio joins our show after winning Orange County Business Journal's "Excellence in Entrepreneurship Award" and being named Entrepreneur Magazine’s “Entrepreneur of the Year”. Jason will discuss how he managed to grow his company into a multi-million dollar internationally known company in just three years. OrigAudio offers innovative solutions for music portability by providing an outlet for customers to become creators of style, set their own trends, and showcase their unique music personalities.

Peter Guercio, President of Graphite Machining Services & Innovations joins our show to discuss how visiting factories in China gave him a clear understanding of what his company was competing with worldwide. Graphite Machining Services & Innovations is an industry leader in the machining and manufacturing of products made from Graphite and Carbon. Peter has grown his company by exporting throughout Asia and has a high respect for the intelligence of his workers in other countries.

Dennis Bakke, Co-Founder of Imagine Schools explains why, as CEO of his previous company, he benefited from limiting himself to one decision per year and how he employs this same practice at Imagine Schools. Bakke will also discuss his 2005 New York Times' bestseller, "Joy at Work", that details his organizational philosophy employed at AES and Imagine Schools. Richard Taite, CEO of Cliffside Malibu Treatment Center discusses how his personal journey led to his desire to create a dedicated sober living facility. In July of 2005, Richard opened Cliffside Malibu that uses treatment methods based on The Stages of Change model.

Sol Schwartz, Chairman of the Board & Founder of Sol Schwartz & Associates, P.C. explains why he believes the key to success is to hire good people and to pay them well. Sol will also discuss where he sees the role of the accountant in the future; especially with how fast things are changing. Tyson Breinholt, Co-Owner of Commercial Properties Inc. discusses how his company managed to complete over 375 transactions totaling over $43 million during the down market. With over 15 years of experience, Tyson is a driving force behind the highly successful office division of Commercial Properties Incorporated. Bill Hagaman, CEO of WithumSmith+Brown joins our show to discuss how he aided his firm in expanding their global capacities. Bill has been a member of the firms management for over 20 years and specializes in merger and acquisition services and international business.

Darin Pastor, CEO and Principal of Capstone Affluent Strategies joins our show to discuss some of the changes he has seen within the wealth management industry and how companies can overcome these challenges. With nearly two decades of experience in financial services, Darin has developed a strong reputation for his exceptional leadership skills and helping clients address their financial goals. Michael Katz and Melissa Yoon, Partners at Katz & Yoon LLP join our show after winning a $17.3 million jury verdict for one of their clients. Katz and Yoon are complex business litigators whose clients include numerous OC corporations and notable individuals involved in high-profile cases. They discuss with host Richard Franzi new trends in defending intellectual property and what companies should do about social media policies.

Alex Wilcox, CEO of JetSuite joins our show to discuss how his company managed to grow during the recession. JetSuite is built on understanding a certain segment of the flying population and has been able to attract that certain niche more than all of their competitors. Alex has over two decades of experience in creating highly innovative air carriers in ways that have improved air travel for millions. Jim Beach, Author of School for Startups discusses why his book guarantees small business success in 90 days or less. This practical guide shows you how to build a business the smart way-without risking major assets such as your house, savings account, or health insurance. Jim is a former professor at Georgia State University and started his first company when he was 26-years-old.

Ellen Langas, President of NouSoma Communications, Inc. discusses how her 25+ years of experience in the marketing communications industry has helped her to successfully develop and manage public relations, advertising, media training, sales and marketing campaigns for national and regional clients. Her company, NouSoma Communications, Inc. creates effective marketing and communications strategies for clients large and small. Ellen is also the creator and author of the successful Girls Know How® book series, winner of the prestigious Mom’s Choice Gold Award, and recipient of the Literacy Hero Award. Brandon Martin, President of Lifetree Manufacturing discusses the key to his entrepreneurship success and how a strategic partnership with Dana Foods, Inc. played a role in the growth of his business. Lifetree Manufacturing provides quality driven, turn key, private label manufacturing services to our customers in the Food and Nutraceutical industries while making conscious decisions to always minimize our carbon footprint. Under Brandon’s direction, LTM was awarded 'Best Places to Work' in 2012 by the Phoenix Business Journal.

Ralph Rubio, Founder of Rubio's talks with host Richard Franzi about the beginning of The Original Fish Taco. Ralph turned his single walk-up stand restaurant into a taco phenomenon that spread from coast to coast. With over 200 restaurants on the West Coast, Ralph has made Rubio's into a household name. Michael Maples, Principal of Trumark Homes discusses his company's strategy of buying land during the recession. Trumark Homes has a strong company culture and creates communities that reflect this culture. Michael is passionate about building an enduring brand and creating sustainable communities.

Jeffrey Backal, CEO of Team Builders Plus discusses the importance of team building and leadership development programs and events. At the start of his career, Jeff noticed that many companies had a strong desire for growth but needed a little help with company cohesion. Since then, he has been working closely with clients in order to create a better work environment for individuals, teams, and organizations as a whole.

Ken Tencer, Partner and CEO of Spyder Works Inc. talks with host Richard Franzi about his Eight Steps to Brand Re(Invention). Ken also discusses his book, The 90% Rule, that integrates three fundamental principles of good business into a pragmatic and powerful approach to business development. Doug Wheeler, Principal of Summit Performance Group joins our show after his company announced a marketing and co-branding agreement with Adelman Travel. Doug discusses what the early stages of a new business relationship is like and how this partnership will aid in the expansion of his company.

Aimee Weisner, Corporate Vice President of Edwards Lifesciences and Chair of the 2013 Orange County Go Red for Women Luncheon talks with host Richard Franzi about her support for the American Heart Association. With years of experience in the medical field, Aimee is spreading the word and bringing people together to discuss heart disease- the number one killer of women. The 2013 Orange County Go Red for Women Luncheon will take place on Friday March 22nd at the Island Hotel in Newport Beach.

Manuel Trujillo, President of Swain Techs shares his experience heading two Digital Six Sigma Black Belt projects. His first project resulted in $2.5M savings while implementing a product portfolio management process. His second project fixed a two year problem while improving relationship that influenced a contract win worth over $27M per year. Chris Molineaux, President of PA Bio discusses his non-profit industry group for BIO-Tech firms in the state of Pennsylvania. PA Bio provides two valuable services – public policy advocacy, and strategic connections that can help advance an organization. David Glusman, Partner-In Charge of Marcum LLP Philadelphia office joins the show to talk about the difference between suing someone vs suing with the expectation of a return. David has extensive experience in medical-related billing and managerial issues and frequently presents to medical schools, universities and professional associations.

Chris Meyer, Owner of Expedia CruiseShipCenters talks with host Richard Franzi about opening one of 16 different travel businesses under the Expedia brand. Expedia Cruise Ship Centers is a full service travel agency that helps to customize vacations at the best value possible. Chris shares insight on how his company generated more than $1.2 million within the first 10 months of operation. Alex Fondrier, Founder and CEO of Political Matchmakers joins our show to discuss how he recognized a need for politically-themed dating sites. Alex founded two dating websites, Red State Date and Blue State Date, which aid singles in finding their perfect "running mate".

David DiStefano, President and CEO of Richardson discusses his global sales training and strategy execution company that partners with leading organizations to increase their sales effectiveness and drive business results. Dave Hess, Principal of Delta CFO talks with host Richard Franzi about the start-up of his firm that provides interim CFOs to help small and mid-sized business owners.

Bill Sachs, President of Home Pride Chem-Dry talks with host Richard Franzi about his company's reputation for providing quality, green certified carpet cleaning. With a focus on marketing, Bill is growing his company as part of the Chem-Dry franchise.

Manna Kadar, Founder of Manna Kadar Cosmetics discusses her creation that is set to revolutionize the make up world as we know it. With over 15 years of experience in the beauty industry, Manny explains how she saw a need for long-lasting, double duty beauty products and what she is doing to separate herself from the competition.

Ed Trevisani, Owner and President of Altabella Group discusses Supertemps based on a Harvard Business Review article about him. Trevisani's firm provides consulting for many Fortune 500 companies, both domestic and international. George Bresler, President and CEO of GB Collects joins us after ringing the bell on the NASDAQ trading floor. Hear about his firm's success and how they are changing how people view collection agencies. Bob Hennessey, President of MyMarketingDept. Inc. talks with host Richard Franzi about how B2B businesses can avoid the feast or famine of prospecting for new clients.

Rajeev Kapur, CEO of Sonic Emotion joins the show to talk about the recent computer electronics show he attended and how Sonic Emotion is competing with the fast-growing world of technology. Rajeev discusses Sonic Emotion's 3D audio products and their innovative iPhone app, Headquake.

Jonathon Fornaci, CEO of Rita's Italian Ice brings to the show the interesting story of Rita's business history. Jonathon also shares how the firm is poised for rapid international growth as they are in 20 states and 3 countries today. Ted Sherwin, President of IBS Direct shares how his firm is finding significant growth opportunities as a printer by expanding their services and acquiring other firms in their area. Ted was brought in 18 months ago by the owner to develop a strategy to grow the firm after years of slow or no growth.

Susan Daywitt, CEO of SLM Waste Facility Solutions joins the show to talk about her recycling and waste management company. SLM serves a wide range of customers with some very large clients such as McDonalds. John Grable, Founder John Grable Architects, Inc. John discusses his views on the need and importance for business leaders to work on building the next generation of leaders. Architects are builders and teachers. John also discusses how going Green is also about doing the right thing.

J.R. McGee, Principal X-Stream Leadership, LLC joins the program to discuss his team and their passion for World-Class Performance. J.R. is passionately committed to improving business strategy and execution.

Joe Nunez, President The Laundry Butlers is guest host Paul Robert's first guest. Joe bring his interesting background to an old line business and has created a unique operation. He is a firm believer in "paying it forward" and discusses how he has helped and how he now volunteers his time with the Veterans entrepreneur boot camp program. Ron Burns, CEO of Proton Media is the maker of ProtoSphere the market leading virtual collaboration environment for business. Proton Media has spent time partnering with larger tech companies, like Microsoft and Polycom. Their goal is humanize business on-line, and to save the world from boring 2D web meetings! Lyle Myers, President of Esio Beverage Company discusses his company which has the Esio Hot&Cold Beverage System. The system is the most convenient appliance since the microwave oven.

Albert Schmeiser, Managing Partner of Schmieser, Olsen & Watts LLP is host Richard Franzi's first guest. Albert shares insights into the changing workforce demographics and how intellectual property protection can benefit entrepreneurs and business owners.

Albert Schmeiser, Managing Partner of Schmieser, Olsen & Watts LLP is host Richard Franzi's first guest. Albert shares insights into the changing workforce demographics and how intellectual property protection can benefit entrepreneurs and business owners. Matt Keener, President Keener Marketing Solutions joins the show and talks about his latest book Executive in Sweatpants.

Michael Schwartz, CEO of Strategic Storage Trust, Inc. is host Richard Franzi's first guest. Michael talks about his firm's focus on acquisition, ownership, operation and development across America's self storage industry. He discusses how the firm has been successful competing against industry giants. Brian Goodman, Managing Director Experis Manpower Group Experis is a dedicated business unit of Manpower group-a world leader in employment services for more than 60 years, and a recognized pioneer in the industry. Brian talks about what 2013 holds for employers looking to add talent in IT, finance and accounting, engineering as well as other industries.