Karen, Author at Business RadioX ® Page

Flora Tromelin with FCT Strategies LLC Joacim Mattisson with Swedish Chamber of Commerce and Lars Lagerman with Arizona Swedish Consulate

October 30, 2021 by Karen

Flora-Tromelin-and-Joacim-Mattisson-with-Swedish-Chamber-of-Commerce-and-Lars-Lagerman-with-Arizona-Swedish-Consulate-feature

Phoenix Business Radio

Flora Tromelin with FCT Strategies LLC Joacim Mattisson with Swedish Chamber of Commerce and Lars Lagerman with Arizona Swedish Consulate

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Flora Tromelin with FCT Strategies LLC Joacim Mattisson with Swedish Chamber of Commerce and Lars Lagerman with Arizona Swedish Consulate

In today’s world, businesses often operate across geographic borders. Worldwide shipping, digital products and services make it easier for the business owner to export, and for the client to buy from overseas.

It also means that many things can get lost in this cross-cultural setting, causing major communication issues in business.

FCT Strategies LLC is specialized in international matters, and offers tailored consulting services in:

Event and project management
Cross-cultural communication
Protocol/etiquette
Organizational management

Flora Tromelin is the founder and CEO of FCT Strategies LLC, a French native, former U.S. military spouse, mom, and travel addict.

Her experience includes over 20 years of experience as a global leader and advisor for the U.S. Federal Government, responsible for cross-team communication and the management of cross-cultural international events.

She has led multicultural teams of up to 35 people and managed events of up to 5,000 attendees.

She met with her husband, a now-retired U.S. Army Officer, during her tenure as Chief of Protocol to the U.S. Ambassador to France and Monaco.

Follow FCT Strategies on LinkedIn and Facebook.

The Swedish American Chamber of Commerce in Arizona promote trade, commerce, investments and business opportunities between Arizona and Sweden.

They offer effective industry specific programs, events, fundrasing, corporate programs, trade missions, business matchmaking and networking.

They also offer talent mobility opportunities for young professionals, both from the US to Sweden, and from Sweden to the US.

Joacim (Yoo-Ah-Kim) Mattisson– or Jay – is an investor and connector.

He helps international businesses build relationships with trade partners in Arizona.

He’s the President of the Swedish-American Chamber of Commerce in Arizona (SACC-AZ)

Jay is also a board member and adviser for the German American Chamber of Commerce Arizona and SACC USA, comprising of 19 chambers all of the U.S.

He enjoys hiking in the magnificent Arionza desert or float down the Salt River in a tube.

Connect with Jay on LinkedIn and follow SACC-AZ on Facebook and Twitter.

Honorary Swedish Consulate of the State of Arizona and those consulate matters, such as passports, drivers licenses, residence permits and Swedish language proficiency test.

It also promotes trade and business between Sweden and the State of Arizona, and works to spread and inform on Swedish culture, literature and music.

Honorary Consul Lars Lagerman serves as Swedish Consul for the State of Arizona. He has served in this position from 1995 to 2007, and again from 2014 to present.

Mr. Lagerman was born and educated in Sweden before obtaining his Bachelor of Arts Degree in History from Gustavus Adolhus College in St. Peter, Minnesota.

He obtained his law degree from the University of Arizona in Tucson in 1978 and has worked in the areas of real estate development and real estate finance, with a nitch practice in international transactions, practicing most recently at the prominent law firm of Snell and Wilmer L.L.C.

Revitalize Cleaning E78

October 29, 2021 by Karen

Phoenix Business Radio

Revitalize Cleaning E78

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Revitalize Cleaning E78

What a fantastic show with Corina Burton and Patrick Maez of CPR Construction Cleaning! The conversation got deep when talking about how life’s failures can result in the true resolve to challenge yourself, leading to great success. Corina is a true believer in empowering people to have it all – you can that work/ life balance and be happy.

Corina and Patrick also discussed the importance of surrounding yourself with people that support you and finding the right business partner. In their individual journeys they have experienced successes and failures that only taught them what works and led to this powerhouse partnership.

You can learn more about their story and what CPR Construction Cleaning is doing to revitalize the cleaning industry and their major plans for growth on their social media platforms.

CPR Construction Cleaning specializes in commercial construction cleaning services.

They are not a janitorial company, their staff is fully trained and certified to meet construction cleanup needs.

Their attention to your service is never compromised, that is why they believe working with a cleanup specialist will ensure your complete satisfaction.

Corina Burton is the co-founder and co-owner of CPR Construction Cleaning and CPR Productions. She has over 15 years of industry experience in business to business authentic marketing and sales. Corina is driven by her passion and is considered an industry leader. Her expertise includes experience in negotiating contracts, sales, business development, customer relationship management, and event management.

In addition to her primary responsibilities as co-owner of CPR Construction Cleaning, Corina’s main goal is to provide her clients with industry partnerships, high quality customer service, and clients total satisfaction. She prides herself in being a problem solution specialist with those she works with. She interfaces with her clients on a daily basis and during every stage of the cleaning process. She is relentless in her pursuit of excellence.

Corina has been recognized for her many accomplishments, and has been featured on the Master Connections series, the Money Making Mothers Podcast , Construction, The Leading Edge Podcast with Todd Dewalt, and People Projects to Know in Commercial Real Estate.

Patrick Maez, co-founder and co-owner of CPR Construction Cleaning and CPR Productions, brings over 17 years of experience managing strategic national accounts and operations within the facility maintenance industry. His expertise includes experience in client relationship management, business development, project management, contract negotiations, supply chain management, subcontractor management, P&L, procurement, and operations management.
Throughout his career, Patrick has collaborated effectively with any array of key partners including clients, owner’s representatives, architects, engineers, developers, and contractors. Patrick brings his meticulous attention to detail to every project; and he possesses a thorough understanding of the facility maintenance industry and has been nationally recognized in process development and compliance for facility maintenance services.

Follow CPR Construction Cleaning on LinkedIn and Facebook.

About the Show

Tycoons of Small Biz spotlights the true backbone of the American economy, the true tycoons of business in America… the owners, founders and CEO’s of small businesses. Join hosts, Austin L Peterson, Landon Mance and the featured tycoons LIVE every Tuesday at 1 pm, right here on Business RadioX and your favorite podcast platform.

About Your Hosts

Austin Peterson is a Comprehensive Financial Planner and co-founder of Backbone Planning Partners in Scottsdale, AZ. Austin is a registered rep and investment advisor representative with Lincoln Financial Advisors. Prior to joining Lincoln Financial Advisors, Austin worked in a variety of roles in the financial services industry.

He began his career in financial services in the year 2000 as a personal financial advisor with Independent Capital Management in Santa Ana, CA. Austin then joined Pacific Life Insurance Company as an internal wholesaler for their variable annuity and mutual fund products. After Pacific Life, Austin formed his own financial planning company in Southern California that he built and ran for 6 years and eventually sold when he moved his family to Salt Lake City to pursue his MBA.

After he completed his MBA, Austin joined Crump Life Insurance where he filled a couple of different sales roles and eventually a management role throughout the five years he was with Crump. Most recently before joining Lincoln Financial Advisors in February 2015, Austin spent 2 years as a life insurance field wholesaler with Symetra Life Insurance Company. Austin is a Certified Financial Planner Professional and Chartered Life Underwriter. In 2021, Austin became a Certified Business Exit Consultant® (CBEC®) to help entrepreneurs plan to exit their businesses.

Austin and his wife of 23 years, Robin, have two children, AJ (21) and Ella (18) and they reside in Gilbert, Arizona. He is a graduate of California State University, Fullerton with a Bachelor of Arts in French and of Brigham Young University’s Marriott School of Management with a Master of Business Administration with an emphasis in sales and entrepreneurship.

Connect with Austin on LinkedIn, Facebook, Twitter, and Instagram.

Landon Mance is a Financial Planner and co-founder of Backbone Planning Partners out of Las Vegas, Nevada. He rebranded his practice in 2020 to focus on serving small business owners after operating as Mance Wealth Management since 2015 when Landon broke off from a major bank and started his own “shop.”

Landon comes from a family of successful entrepreneurs and has a passion and excitement for serving the business community. This passion is what brought about the growth of Backbone Planning Partners to help business owners and their families. At Backbone Planning, we believe small business owners’ personal and business goals are intertwined, so we work with our clients to design a financial plan to support all aspects of their lives.

In 2019, Landon obtained the Certified Exit Planning Advisor (CEPA) designation through the Exit Planning Institute. With this certification, Backbone Planning Partners assists business owners through an ownership transition while focusing on a positive outcome for their employees and meeting the business owner’s goals. Landon is also a member of the Business Intelligence Institute (BII) which is a collaborative group that shares tools, resources and personnel, and offers advanced level training and technical support to specifically serve business owners. In 2021, Landon became a Certified Business Exit Consultant® (CBEC®) to help entrepreneurs plan to exit their businesses by counseling owners about exit options, estimating the value of the business, preparing the business for exit and tax considerations.

Landon enjoys spending time with his beautiful wife, stepson, and new baby twins. He grew up in sunny San Diego and loves visiting his family, playing a round of golf with friends, and many other outdoor activities. Landon tries to make a difference in the lives of children in Las Vegas as a part of the leadership team for a local non-profit. He regularly visits the children that we work with to remind himself of why it’s so important to, “be the change that you wish to see in the world.”

Landon received his B.S. from California State University Long Beach in business marketing and gets the rest of his education through the school of hard knocks via his business owner clients.

Connect with Landon on LinkedIn.

Austin Peterson and Landon Mance are registered representatives of Lincoln Financial Advisors Corp. Securities and investment advisory services offered through Lincoln Financial Advisors Corp., a broker/dealer (member SIPC) and registered investment advisor. Insurance offered through Lincoln affiliates and other fine companies. Backbone Planning Partners is a marketing name for registered representatives of Lincoln Financial Advisors. CRN-3878276-102021

Lincoln Financial Advisors Corp. and its representatives do not provide legal or tax advice. You may want to consult a legal or tax advisor regarding any legal or tax information as it relates to your personal circumstances.

The content presented is for informational and educational purposes. The information covered and posted are views and opinions of the guests and not necessarily those of Lincoln Financial Advisors Corp.

Business RadioX® is a separate entity not affiliated with Lincoln Financial Advisors Corp.

Diversity and Inclusion Mixed with People and Profit Makes for the Best Combination E15

October 29, 2021 by Karen

Phoenix Business Radio

Diversity and Inclusion Mixed with People and Profit Makes for the Best Combination E15

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Diversity and Inclusion Mixed with People and Profit Makes for the Best Combination E15

This was such a great show with Mary Henry and Ron Price, joining Jeremy Neis and our guest host Debbie Accomazzo.

The discussion flowed well between both guests and each found that their respective practices, values, ethics and business consciousness aligned.

The conversation returned numerous times to the “Great Resignation” or “Great Reshuffling” as Ron coined it – as in, the impact to industry and hiring can be seen as a positive reawakening of sorts, for both employee and employer.

The critical nature of DEIJ – Diversity, Equity, Inclusion and Justice – initiatives was a topic that flowed throughout the conversation, and Mary’s HR member organizations have been ahead of the curve in addressing such practices and policies for a number of years.

In Mary’s bio, she references “adding bottom-line value to organizations through People, Process and Profit,” and they acknowledged the order that she listed those in – starting with “People,” … the foundation of any successful organization.

They also discussed the likelihood of executives at the C-suite level being open and willing to move forward and lean into the momentum around a more conscious employee, vendor and customer. Ron stated that anyone “open to growth” likely is also open to these concepts.

This is a great podcast to listen to if you are searching for conversations supporting growing company culture through improving diversity, equity, inclusion and justice. If you agree that people and profit should be looked at on the same playing field, then you should listen up to these folks that agree. Our guest host Debbie jumped into the conversation gracefully and we look forward to shows similar to this one!

The AZ Talent CoOp was created to bring together people-centered associations for leveraging our collective resources to enable our associations to grow. As a result we better support those who serve people at work. We are confident that you will gain insight and professional growth from these events and perhaps find great connections in one of our associations.

As a collective group we beleive that transformational change will occur when we create inclusive workplaces where everyone can contribute and thrive professionally and financially.

Our peer driven professional development sessions are designed as ‘how to” create a inclusive workplace. These session tackle culture, change, and guiding the organizations through the journey.

Mary Henry is a human resources consultant and recognized leader in change management, people development, and organization assessment focusing on adding bottom-line value to organizations through People Process and Profit.

Her stellar leadership background with Fortune 50 companies in the retail space has been instrumental in her being sought after for organization change assignments. As a senior human resources leader with CVS Mary was selected as the HR Partner aligned with the business in multiple acquisitions.

During these lengthy assignments she used the Kotter Change Model to effectively integrate the acquired companies into the CVS organization and culture with detailed approaches, tools, and strategies.

Mary holds the SPHR, Senior Professional in Human Resource designation from the Society of Human Resource management. Mary holds the designation through TTI Success Insights International as a Certified Growth Curve Strategist, Certified Professional in Behavioral Analyst CPBA and Certified Professional Motivators Analyst.

She is currently the Co Founder and director of the Arizona Talent CoOp and is an independent service provider of business services to growing companies.

Connect with Mary on LinkedIn and follow The AZ Talent CoOp on Facebook.

Price Associates is a leadership advisory firm that helps leaders growth themselves, their teams, and their organizations.

Ron Price has served an a variety of leadership roles in both for profit and not for profit organizations for more than 50 years. He founded Price Associates in 2004.

The “associates” have serve leaders and their organizations in 15 countries with digital services provided to leaders in over 100 countries.

About Our Guest Co-Host

Equality Health Foundation believes a zip code should not determine how long or how well one lives and that everyone should have access to resources that enable and encourage healthy living. The Foundation is committed to breaking down ever-persistent barriers to good health and providing everyone equal opportunities to thrive and live well.

All these beliefs fuel the core mission: to level the healthcare playing field in the underserved communities the Foundation serves.

The Equality Health Foundation envisions a world of vibrant and inclusive communities where all individuals have the opportunity to live healthy lives. a bold vision like this cannot be accomplished alone and requires extensive collaboration across local communities around the country to make a sustainable and transformative change—a movement for advancing equal health for all.

Debbie Eatherly Accomazzo has led with her effervescent smile through an extensive professional background in Arizona. Her experience includes small business and corporate entities and critically important nonprofit missions with work in public relations, marketing, community engagement, and investor and donor stewardship. She is recognized as an accomplished business leader and community advocate.

While in the corporate sector, Debbie’s work was focused on the office product and technology industry with a concentration on procurement. She then set her sights on community initiatives focused on youth development and health and human services. Debbie is known as an exceptional communicator, presenter and storyteller and has been recognized for her ability to effectively elevate brand and cultivate robust stakeholder relationships, whether internal to the operation or outward facing to capture client and investor attention.

Having merged business acumen with a deep sense of social purpose, Debbie embraces the pillars of conscious capitalism, namely, elevating humanity through business. In that context, she steers expansive collaborative endeavors bringing community stakeholders and charitable resources together, keeping mission focus at the forefront. Debbie is highly skilled at balancing community, municipal and corporate alignments to ensure mutual success and maximum impact.

As a proud Mississippi native, she embraces the words of Ms. Eudora Welty, world-renowned author and photographer, “All serious daring starts from within.” Indeed, it does.

Connect with Debbie on LinkedIn and Twitter.

About Our People and Profit Co-Hosts

Sarah McCraren is an Arizona native with a strong sense of community. Sarah spent many years in the corporate finance world specializing in the operational analysis, measurement and accountability systems, project management and software implementations. However, Sarah wanted to do work which was meaningful and would positively impact her community.

She found that saving lives and reducing injuries through comprehensive safety programs fit that bill. Sarah currently leads the McCraren Compliance team by keeping everyone focused on their primary purpose, creating workplaces where we all watch out for each other, and balancing the needs of all their stakeholders.

Sarah serves on the Boards for Conscious Capitalism Arizona and the Society for Mining, Metallurgy and Exploration Tucson Chapter, and is also active with the Arizona Builders Alliance, Arizona Rock Products Association , Arizona Transportation Builders and Women in Mining Az.

Sarah McCraren
Part of an Awesome Team
www.McCrarenCompliance.com
Creating Workplaces Where We All Watch Out for Each Other

No arm twisting is required to get Jeremy Neis, a CC Arizona leadership team member, to engage in conversation with impassioned business minds on the topic of leveraging enterprise to create long lasting advancements for humanity.

His two plus decades of entrepreneurial experience, leading strategic initiatives and tailoring solutions for organizations, families and individuals has led to a strong appreciation of the profound impact business wields over the people it serves and relies upon.

It is his delight to explore with inspiration, show guests their experiences, observations and approaches to doing business in a people centered manner.

About Our Sponsor – Conscious Capitalism Arizona

Business has the potential to be a powerful force for good.

Free enterprise capitalism has served to lift more people out of poverty than any other socio-economic system ever conceived – empowering social cooperation, human progress, and elevating humanity.

Good business is the answer to many of the global issues that humankind is facing. This is what we will dive into on the show.

We are working to change the capitalism narrative by shining a bright light on good business – telling the stories of conscious Arizona companies and encouraging others to follow in their footsteps.

Knowing Your People as People and Building Diverse Teams E16

October 28, 2021 by Karen

Phoenix Business Radio

Knowing Your People as People and Building Diverse Teams E16

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Knowing Your People as People and Building Diverse Teams E16

This was such a great show, with two wonderful guests, to round out the first year of the Culture Crush Business Podcast. This first year has been a blast and we have plans to grow even more this year.

It was so great to have Darren Thompson from DiverseCity and Brian Mohr with anthym on the show this month. We are thankful for their honesty and openness to discuss the real things that really grow company culture.

The show also reached some very honest and real discussions surrounding company culture when it comes to diversity and inclusion and supporting your people as real people with feelings. This show was also lighthearted and fun, with momma Maples (Kindra’s mom Connie) in the studio as well.

Company culture is deeper than just the values on the wall that people align with though. It is important to understand the others that you are working with as more than just what their job is. Who are they? We spend the majority of our days with the people that we work with, so why not understand them on a deeper level. It is also extremely important to understand the importance of diverse teams and making sure that everyone truly feels included and accepted.

Once your company has been able to include diverse teammates and see them as people with feelings, then they can grow the culture of the company even further.

There were so many great tidbits in this show, that people will definitely want to take a listen.

Leaders get the teams they deserve
Culture is the way and how things get done
People simply want to be
Once you have the taste of a company with a good culture you just can’t go back.

If you are a company that is trying to take your company culture to the next level, then you need to listen to the show. This podcast is for all leaders. Brian and Darren give examples, tips, and reasoning for the ways that they are helping to grow company culture. Both gentlemen are supporting companies in their journeys to grow company culture.

DiverseCity is a mobile technology designed to help engage and sustain DEI initiatives.

Darren Thompson is VP of Marketing at DiverseCity, a technology platform dedicated to supporting and managing diversity, equity and inclusion education. In addition, he is also the Founder of POKR, a Digital Business Development and Marketing Firm.

Darren attended undergraduate studies at The University of Arizona, and launched his career in education. He eventually branched out into Sales & Business Development Consulting and now has a diverse client base to include his favorite: Start-ups.

Today, Darren is devoted to building his own tech-based start up and currently resides in sunny Phoenix, Arizona near his identical twin brother. He is an avid traveler, musician, chess player and remains committed to working with young entrepreneurs to help them achieve their goals.

Follow DiverseCity on LinkedIn.

Thriving organizations recognize that their level of future success will be a direct result of a highly connected and engaged team working together to create value and impact for those they serve. Connection and engagement can’t be dictated or mandated, and it doesn’t happen by accident; it’s the result of a deliberate focus on fostering a deep sense of belonging, inclusion, and trust within the culture.

The anthym experience harnesses the power of personal storytelling to knock down artificial walls and shine a bright light on the depth and breadth of authentic human connection that exists within every team. By leveraging the universal accessibility and time machine-like power of music, anthym sparks a new level of curiosity and opens the door for a heightened level of conversation leading to unparalleled levels of connection and trust.

anthym is the leading team building technology platform for remote, distributed, and hybrid teams.

Brian Mohr’s career is a learning-based journey with an intense focus on people, purpose, values, culture, and leadership. Brian has had amazing entrepreneurial and leadership experiences at Jobing.com, P.F. Chang’s China Bistro, Y Scouts and Conscious Capitalism Arizona. Today, Brian is channeling his experiences and energy into helping organizations build cohesive teams in the rapidly accelerating distributed workplace through his new company, Anthym.

Brian is on the national Board of Directors of Conscious Capitalism, Inc., he is a Board member and President Emeritus of the Arizona Chapter of Conscious Capitalism, a member of the Board of Directors of the Better Business Bureau of the Pacific Southwest, a TEDx speaker, and the co-author of “Hiring on Purpose – How the Y Scouts Method is Revolutionizing the Search for Leaders”.

Brian’s most important and cherished responsibilities are being the lucky father to his 2 daughters, Taylor and Riley, and the proud husband to his wife, Jackie. In his spare time, you’ll find Brian practicing guitar and catching a live music concert every chance he can get.

Connect with Brian on LinkedIn, Facebook, Twitter and Instagram.

About Culture Crush

Culture Crush is officially relaunched! We are thankful to Debra Caron who launched and hosted the show originally. Culture Crush is back with a new host but the same focus- highlighting what makes a great company culture and how it affects the overall success of a company.

Culture is not just a tag word to be thrown around. It is not something you throw in job descriptions to draw people to applying for jobs within a company.

According to Marcus Buckingham and Ashely Goodall in their book Nine Lies About Work, “Culture is the tenants of how we behave. It’s like a family creed. This is how we operate and treat each other in the family.”

On this long form podcast we will highlight companies local to Arizona and beyond that are crushing it with great culture!

We will talk with company leaders to learn about real-life experiences, tips, and best practices for creating a healthy work environment where employees are finding joy and satisfaction in their work while also striving and growing within the company.

About the Host

Kindra Maples is your new host taking the lead on the relaunch of Culture Crush! She is spartan racer, past animal trainer, previous magician’s assistant, and has a weakness for Oreo cookie shakes. Her journey working with people actually started working with animals as a teenager (don’t worry we won’t go that far back for her bio).

She worked for over 15 years in the zoo industry working with animals and the public. Her passion of working with animals shifted into working with people in education, operations and leadership roles. From there her passion of leadership and helping people develop has continued to grow.

Then came the opportunity for relaunching the Culture Crush Podcast and she jumped on it. Leadership, growth, and strong company cultures are all areas that Kindra is interested in diving into further.

Shout Outs

We want to thank a few people for their behind the scenes effort in helping this relaunch to come to life. James Johnson with Tailored Penguin Media Company LLC.– It is a small, but powerful video production company with a goal to deliver the very best by articulating the vision of your brand in a visually creative way. Gordon Murray with Flash PhotoVideo, LLC. -Flash Gordon has been photographing since high school and evolving since then with new products that will equip, encourage, engage, and enable. Renee Blundon with Renee Blundon Design – She is not only one of the best free divers (that’s not how she helped with the podcast) but she is great with graphics design and taking the direction for the vision that you have while also adding creative ideas to bring to your vision to life.

These are just a few of the folks that supported the relaunch of the podcast. If you would like to be part of the Culture Crush team or would like to support underwriting the show- please reach out: culturecrushpodcast@gmail.com

Embrace Your Beauty: Fierce and Fabulous Women Over 40

October 28, 2021 by Karen

Phoenix Business Radio

Embrace Your Beauty: Fierce and Fabulous Women Over 40

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Embrace Your Beauty: Fierce and Fabulous Women Over 40

Karianne Munstedt Portrait helps women business owners and professional change the way they see and speak to themselves. They do this through portrait photography, anti-perfectionism coaching, and intimate retreats.

Karianne Munstedt is an award-winning portrait photographer and business owner, a speaker, coach and author. She is an artist and nurturer, fiercely motivated by using her talents to make women feel confident, empowered, and whole. As a curvy woman who was very critical of her body, she spent nearly a decade hiding behind the camera, never stepping in front of it out of fear of shame and judgment around her body and choices.

Now, Karianne exists fully in photos for her business and in her personal life. She routinely posts real and raw photos of herself, shifting the way we define beauty and proving that we all are worthy of existing fully in photos, no matter our perceived flaws. Karianne inspires women around the world to show up as real versions of themselves in their photos, not the “perfect” versions they were taught to show.

Connect with Karianne on LinkedIn, Facebook and Instagram.

Microsoft Corporation is an American multinational technology corporation which produces computer software, consumer electronics, personal computers, and related services. Its best known software products are the Microsoft Windows line of operating systems, the Microsoft Office suite, and the Internet Explorer and Edge web browsers.

Microsoft is on a mission to empower every person and every organization on the planet to achieve more. Our culture is centered on embracing a growth mindset, a theme of inspiring excellence, and encouraging teams and leaders to bring their best each day. In doing so, we create life-changing innovations that impact billions of lives around the world.

Kimberly Thigpen is an innovative technology executive, leading the Windows Commercial team at Microsoft to drive change that enhances the commercial customer Windows experience.

Prior to joining Microsoft, she was the Director of IT Applications at Make-A-Wish where she led the technology applications efforts that enables wish-granting and drives revenue generation and operations effectiveness. Kim has served in technology leadership roles for First Solar, Honeywell Aerospace, and Citibank.

She received an M.B.A. degree from Notre Dame and a Bachelor of Business Administration degree in Finance from Howard University. Since 2019, Kim has served as Governance on the Notre Dame Women Connect board.

In 2021, she was nominated as Treasurer for the ND Club of Phoenix. She is a member of Delta Sigma Theta Sorority, Inc. She is a loving wife to Fred, and they are blessed with 2 wonderful daughters: Sidney, an Epidemiologist and Kierstin, a competitive equestrian and student at Cal Poly (SLO).

Her hobbies include traveling the globe, volunteering her time to community service, exploring wine vineyards, hiking, spending time with family and friends and attending equestrian events.

Connect with Kimberly on LinkedIn.

Prism HR is the leading HR consulting firm in Las Vegas. Established in 2003, we support clients throughout the country with their HR needs. We assist international clients with HR-related tasks and ensure legal compliance with local, state, and federal law when opening locations or employing workers in the United States. And, supplement existing HR staff when needed.

Prism HR uses a multi-faceted approach to an organization’s human resource needs that ensures human resource initiatives are legally compliant with local, state and federal law, reflective of company culture and industry, and aligned with the strategic growth, development and life cycle of the organization.

We work with companies in a variety of industry sectors, including manufacturing, retail, cannabis, telecommunications, broadcasting, engineering, banking, gaming, professional services and more.

Service areas include audits, benefits design and implementation, compensation plan development and strategy, employee and labor relations, forms library, handbooks, hearing representation (unemployment, EEOC, DOL), HR Hotline, investigations, job descriptions, legal compliance, mergers and acquisitions, onsite HR support, policy and procedure development, process improvement, professional coaching, recruiting and staffing, risk management, safety, strategic business development, technology implementations, termination assistance and training.

Mary Beth Hartleb’s career spans more than thirty years in the human resources field working with Fortune 500 companies while developing human resource departments for smaller, entrepreneurial ventures.

She is experienced in various industries including gaming, restaurant, association management, education, energy, legal, cannabis, telecommunications, retail, broadcasting, manufacturing, engineering, government and non-profits.

She founded Prism HR Consulting-Global Management Group in 2003. Prism HR supports local, national and international companies in all areas of HR.

She currently serves on many boards and committees including the Henderson Chamber of Commerce Board of Directors, she is Vice Chair of the IMPAC committee, on the Board of Directors for Heaven Can Wait, Nevada State College and the development committee for the National Atomic Testing Museum.

In 2020, Mary Beth was appointed by Nevada Governor Sisolak to the task force on Employee Misclassification. Previously, she served at the appointment of Governor Sandoval to the Board of Directors for the Nevada Workforce Investment Board and is a past Board Member for the Girl Scouts of Southern Nevada and Neon Museum.

In 2007, Mary Beth was awarded the Woman in Business Champion award by the United States Small Business Administration. In 2010-2011, she assumed responsibility as State Council Director for the Society of Human Resource Management having previously served as President of the Southern Nevada Human Resource Association.

In 2010, In Business bestowed her with the Entrepreneur Award. In 2011, NAWBO awarded her the Entrepreneur of the Year Award. She was a finalist recipient of the Athena Award bestowed by the Women’s Chamber of Commerce and is inducted into their Hall of Fame. In 2021, the Henderson Chamber of Commerce named her as Board Member of the Year.

Mary Beth earned a J.D. from the William S. Boyd School of Law, holds a master’s degree in Human Resource Management and a bachelor’s degree in Marketing and Business Administration. Credentials include the Senior Human Resource Professional (SPHR) designation from the SHRM and Certified Professional Coach (CPC).

Follow Prism HR on LinkedIn.

Joi In Style is a professional image and wardrobe styling company specializing in leading people to create a personal style and image that is empowering and brings out their inner potential, leading to higher self-esteem and greater success both personally and professionally.

The company is built on several principals. The first one is “when you look good, you feel good”, and Joi In Style aims to teach every client how to put their best foot forward to feel good about how they present themselves to the world in every situation, whether speaking on stage or just heading to the grocery store.

The second principal is “everywhere you go, there you are!” That means that you never know when or where your next opportunity will present itself; therefore, your brand must be represented at all times. That does not mean that you have to be wearing a power-suit every day, but you do want to be aware of how you are representing your brand on a daily basis, even outside of business hours.

Joi In Style shows clients how to create an image and an effortless signature style that allows anyone to be ready for those opportunities….from Wal Mart to Wall Street!

Nicole Thompson, of Joi In Style, has been dressing women and men for over a decade, since 2007. Her expertise is ensuring that people who have a big message make sure that their exterior appearance matches that big message everywhere they go…from Wal Mart to Wall Street and everything in between.

Nicole has been a professional Image Consultant, and Wardrobe Stylist for over a decade. Her mission is to bring her clients’ appearance into alignment with their values and who they are on the inside, as well as send a clear message of what they want to convey on the outside.

Her specialty is teaching speakers, authors, journalists & news anchors, attorneys, and coaches how to cultivate an everyday style, as well as a stage image, that is as powerful as their message. She teaches how to really use fashion, style, and image positively to make upward moves in life and business.

Connect with Nicole on Instagram.

Rebecca Panico is a seasoned marketing and advertising professional with over 20 years experience in media investment strategy.

Rebecca is a passionate and energetic individual successful in identifying, planning, negotiating and cultivating partnerships that drive market share growth with fortune 500 brands.

Connect with Rebecca on LinkedIn.

Lynea Art + Design is a brand new company empowering people to live authentically in their homes. Cathryn empowers and encourages her clients to dive deep and discover what they truly enjoy and surround themselves in it. Be yourself in your own home. It’s not her style. It’s your style.

Cathryn Lynea has two degrees from U.C. Berkeley, History of Art and Business Administration.

Once in the Big 4 accounting world, then a stay at home wife and mother for 13 years, she is launching her passion in her own firm, Lynea Art + Design.

Currently representing the very talented artist and musician, Jason Hoopes.

Made in AZ: The Rise of Arizona’s Manufacturing Sector E19

October 26, 2021 by Karen

Made-in-AZ-The-Rise-of-Arizonas-Manufacturing-Sector-feature

AZ TechCast

Made in AZ: The Rise of Arizona's Manufacturing Sector E19

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Made in AZ: The Rise of Arizona’s Manufacturing Sector E19

Made in Arizona. It’s a phrase that is becoming more familiar as the state’s manufacturing sector continues to grow and add a rapidly increasing number of manufacturing jobs. Between the development of technologies improving efficiency and reducing costs, automation of manufacturing processes and a business-friendly climate, Arizona’s manufacturing landscape is being recognized on a national stage.

In the Arizona Technology Council’s October 2021 episode of AZTechCast, Mike Buseman, EVP and chief operating officer at Benchmark; Brett Dooley, technical sales engineer at In-Position Technologies; and Mike McCormack, president and CEO at CP North America joined Phoenix Business RadioX owner and president, Karen Nowicki, to discuss the rapid evolution and development of Arizona’s manufacturing sector.

Throughout this hour-long episode, this panel of experts explored the various factors that have contributed to Arizona’s rise in manufacturing over the past decade, the newest technologies manufacturers are utilizing to improve efficiency and reduce costs, the automation being implemented to compete with foreign sources and the largest manufacturing challenges they are facing in a post-COVID world, particularly around supply chain and talent acquisition and retention.

Benchmark provides comprehensive solutions across the entire product life cycle; leading through its innovative technology and engineering design services; leveraging its optimized global supply chain; and delivering world-class manufacturing services in the following industries: commercial aerospace, defense, advanced computing, next-generation telecommunications, medical, complex industrials, and semiconductor capital equipment.

Benchmark’s global operations include facilities in seven countries and its common shares trade on the New York Stock Exchange under the symbol BHE.

Mike Buseman serves as Benchmark’s Executive Vice President and Chief Operating Officer with responsibility for all worldwide manufacturing operations. Mike is an accomplished executive with broad experience in operations, quality and customer relationship management. He has an extensive background in EMS and related industries.

Mike served as Chief Global Logistics and Operations Officer of Avnet, Inc., a global electronics components company, and was Executive Vice President of Global Manufacturing Operations at Plexus Corp., having served as their Vice President of Global Technology, Quality and Facilities previously.

Additionally, Mike served as Vice President and General Manager of Operations of Celestica, Inc., as well as their Director of Operations, Engineering, and Technology. Mike began his career in 1983 with Unisys, Inc., holding positions of increasing responsibility, including Principal Process Engineer and Director of Advanced Design Manufacturing Services.

Mike holds a BS in Mechanical Engineering from South Dakota State University and an MBA from the University of St. Thomas, Minnesota.

Connect with Mike on LinkedIn and follow Benchmark on Facebook and Twitter.

In-Position Technologies is a robotic automation company who partners with both suppliers and customers to deliver automation. Their charter is to be a value-added partner in the automation process.

They do this by supplying products coupled with training, and integration resources coupled with know-how.

With offices located throughout the Western United States, In-Position Technologies has been helping both end users and original equipment manufacturers automate for more than 20 years.

Brett Dooley is a mechanical engineer with In-Position Technologies. He collaborates with business owners and engineers to develop targeted solutions for motion control and automation challenges.

He can assist in a broad range of applications, including autonomous mobile robotics and logistics, machine tending, vision, laser marking, laboratory automation, as well as OEM product development.

He uses his wide experience in business development, industrial repair, and a decade as an electronics tech in the US Navy submarine force to ensure delivery of an effective and robust automation system.

Connect with Brett on Instagram, Twittter and LinkedIn and follow In-Position Technologies on Facebook.

CP North America is an independently operated U.S.-based company, encompassing a family of brands including CP Technologies, CP Systems and CP Aeronautics.

CP Technologies is a U.S. designer and vertically integrated manufacturer of rugged and custom computing solutions for defense applications.

CP Systems is a U.S. designer and vertically integrated manufacturer of custom and rugged, high-performance computing solutions serving the industrial, commercial, and agriculture markets.

Focused on cost-effective unmanned combat-proven ISR (Intelligence, Surveillance, and Reconnaissance) solutions, CP Aeronautics provides integrated turnkey systems and subsystems based on platforms, payloads, communications, and ground control stations for defense and civil applications.

Mike McCormack is the President and CEO of CP North America. To this role, he brings Extensive general management and leadership experience, full profit and loss experience, and the management of Sales, Distribution, and Manufacturing organizations across North America, Europe, the Middle East, and Africa.

This has included an understanding of managing businesses across cultures and geographies that has led to double-digit growth in challenging environments. He attended the University of California, San Diego, and earned an MBA in International Business at The Open University.

Follow CP North America on LinkedIn.

About AZ TechCast

AZ TechCast is dedicated to covering innovation and technology in Arizona and beyond.

Through the art of connected conversation, AZ TechCast’s guests will share their expertise, success stories, news and analysis about the region’s leading startups, companies and emerging technologies, as well as the latest industry trends and critical issues propelling the state’s growing technology ecosystem.

About Your Hosts

Steve Zylstra serves as president and CEO of the Arizona Technology Council, a role he assumed in 2007. He is responsible for strategy, operations, finance and policy development. Zylstra is a vocal spokesman for the value technology can provide in raising social and economic standards in Arizona.

Zylstra serves on numerous councils, committees and boards, was named “Leader of the Year, Technology,” by the Arizona Capitol Times, and “Most Admired Leader” by the Phoenix Business Journal. In addition, he was awarded an honorary doctorate of science in technology from the University of Advancing Technology in Tempe, Ariz.

Zylstra earned a bachelor’s degree in automotive engineering technology from Western Michigan University.

Karen Nowicki is a successful author, speaker and the creator of Deep Impact Leadership™ and SoulMarks Coaching™. She is a two-time recipient of the prestigious national Choice Award® for her book and personal development retreat. Karen was crowned the first-ever “Mompreneur of the Year” Award in 2010 for the southwestern states. She was recognized for her leadership, business acumen, and work-life balance.

Karen has been an expert guest on regional TV and radio shows, including Fox Phoenix Morning Show, Sonoran Living, Good Morning Arizona, The Chat Room, and Mid-Day Arizona. She has been a regular contributor to many print and online magazines – publishing articles and blogs for business and education.

In addition to working with private coaching clients, Karen is also the Owner & President of Phoenix Business RadioX. The Business RadioX Network amplifies the voice of business – serving the Fortune 500,000, not just the Fortune 500. Phoenix Business RadioX helps local businesses and professional associations get the word out about the important work they’re doing to serve their market, profession, and community.

Of all the experiences Karen has had the privilege of participating in over her vast career, she shares that Phoenix Business RadioX is a pinnacle adventure!

Connect with Karen on LinkedIn and follow Phoenix Business RadioX on Facebook and Instagram.

About Our Sponsor

The Arizona Technology Council, Arizona’s only statewide organization serving the technology sector, fosters a climate of innovation to enhance technology in Arizona.

A trusted resource in strengthening Arizona’s technology industry, the Council proactively eliminates impediments that companies face, accelerates the entrepreneurial mindset in the state’s expanding innovation ecosystem, and works to create a destination for companies to be, thrive and stay.

Follow Arizona Technology Council on LinkedIn, Facebook, and Instagram.

Healthcare Myths and Secrets Revealed E25

October 26, 2021 by Karen

Healthcare-Myths-and-Secrets-Revealed-EP25

Phoenix Business Radio

Healthcare Myths and Secrets Revealed E25

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Healthcare Myths and Secrets Revealed E25

Common myths debunked, secrets from a billion-dollar industry revealed, and spotlights shined on associations, businesses, and nonprofits in Arizona; all in this episode of Collaborative Connections Radio Show and Podcast.

Host, Kelly Lorenzen was on-air with Breck Rice, co-founder of ServRx, Heidi Foglesong, CEO of Swingo Media representing Senior Living Connectors, and Kimberly Mitchell, co-owner of Home With Help.

These amazing business leaders shared so many significant stories and tips about the healthcare industry, that this is a great episode for anyone to listen to.

Thank you, KLM Consulting, Marketing, and Management for sponsoring this show.

ServRx is a leading national pharmacy services company with a focus on workers’ compensation prescription drug claims processing. With a strong backbone of proprietary IT and decades of experience in the community pharmacy space, ServRx is a revenue cycle management solution for community and independent pharmacies.

Across America, each pharmacy client is as unique as the patients they treat. ServRx prides itself on creating customized solutions to meet the needs of its diverse client base. Rural mom-and-pop pharmacies, regional chains, specialty pharmacies, and large pharmacy management firms alike have turned to ServRx to handle the unique workflow and cash-flow challenges posed by workers’ compensation.

A winning mix of experience, technology, and economies of scale allows ServRx to promise its clients superior handling of their claims. Whether they process one pharmacy claim per week or hundreds per day, ServRx clients have something in common: peace of mind and increased profitability.

As Chief Revenue Officer and Co-Founder, Breck Rice leads all aspects of Sales, Marketing, Business Development, and company growth strategies for ServRx, Inc.

Breck holds an Executive MBA with an emphasis in marketing, he is an Adjunct Professor of Marketing at the university level and a serial entrepreneur.

Connect with Breck on LinkedIn, Twitter and Instagram.

Senior Living Connectors is a coalition of quality, trusted resources to help adult children, partners, caregivers and friends help their senior loved one navigate the difficult challenges that come with aging with the guidance and support needed to have success along the way.

Heidi Foglesong is a bilingual media talent and marketing specialist who brings over 25 years of news and media production skills to the table. After graduating with a degree in broadcast journalism, Heidi moved on to an award-winning career as a television news anchor on KTVK TV in Phoenix, Arizona.

She was voted most trusted and popular news anchor in the Phoenix area by viewers for almost a decade. Heidi spent many of her growing up years in Latin America. As a result she is fluent in Spanish which led her to host and produce bilingual international videos. She has also hosted TV lifestyle programs, news talk radio shows and live events.

Most recently, Heidi has created her own production company, Swingo Media, specializing in innovative video marketing campaigns, branded content and programming for digital platforms. Heidi also serves as an advocate for children in crisis and seniors in need here in the valley.

Heidi’s says her greatest accomplishment to date is the privilege of being a mother to her three amazing daughters – Jamie, Heather and Erin.

Home With Help® is a trusted provider of comprehensive non-medical companionship, homemaking, and personal care services in Arizona. We are committed to providing the most compassionate, respectful, and ethical care possible.

Kimberly Mitchell has exhibited her commitment to the greater Phoenix community and to the advancement of women in several areas. She is an active member of the Girls Rule Foundation, serving as a volunteer in multiple areas and co-chairing their quarterly Mother/Daughter summits that feature outstanding speakers and role models for young women.

Kimberly’s dedication to make a positive difference in the lives of young females extends beyond the group level to a concentrated effort on an individual level as well. She is a very active volunteer as a court appointed special advocate for foster children in the CASA program.

Kimberly’s professional activity is also testament to her dedication to the community at large as the owner of a home care business. The company, Home With Help, provides compassionate, respectful and ethical care to people in their homes.

She takes great pride in her ability to provide in home care so those in need of assistance can get it without having to be relegated to facilities unfamiliar to them, and where they may not get the individual care required.

About Collaborative Connections

Kelly Lorenzen started the “Collaborative Connections” show to bring her clients and favorite charities together to meet each other, connect and collaborate in life and business. She hopes to build a stronger community one show at a time.

About Our Sponsor

KLM Consulting is a business development firm with over 18 years of award-winning business savvy. Their purpose is to foster the growth and prosperity of small businesses in our community.

Everything KLM does is to help small businesses build, grow, and sustain. They enable owners to get back to doing what they love about their business and bring them happiness.

By offering business development strategy sessions, concierge services, consulting, marketing, project management, and social media training, KLM’s clients can continue to do what they love while having the support they need when they need it.

About Your Host

Kelly Lorenzen, CEO of KLM Consulting, is an award-winning entrepreneur with over 15 years of business-ownership experience. She is also a certified project management professional.

Kelly’s expertise is in business development, customer service, marketing, and sales.

Connect with Kelly on LinkedIn, and follow KLM Consulting on Facebook.

E89 Passion from Project Management with Ricardo Vargas

October 21, 2021 by Karen

Phoenix Business Radio

E89 Passion from Project Management with Ricardo Vargas

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E89 Passion from Project Management with Ricardo Vargas

In this episode of Project Management Office Hours Ricardo Vargas joins PMO Joe for an exciting discussion on the topics of Transformation, Crisis Management, Project Economy, passion in work-life balance, and more!

We talk about work-life balance and how we can manage having a life outside of work. The moment we reverse it to say it is a life-work balance is the moment we gain control and passion for what we are doing. Balance will fall into place because we realize what to prioritize. Ricardo talks about this further with Joe and describes “When you think that there is a work life balance, you are in some way saying that when you work, you don’t live. So, you need to stop working to start living. And for me, in the end, there is only life. This is my passion component.” -Ricardo

“At the UN, the projects are driven by an extraordinarily keen sense of how you can improve people’s lives through rebuilding cities after disaster or war-torn countries. On the other side, the environment is how can you help your client to save money? But in the end, both have the same intention to increase the efficiency of things we want to do.” -Ricardo

Specializing in implementing innovative global initiatives, capital projects and product development, Ricardo has directed dozens of projects across industries and continents, managing more than $20 billion in global initiatives over the past 25 years. Ricardo shares his expertise with millions of professionals around the globe through his “5 Minutes Podcast,” which he’s hosted since 2007. He has written 15 books on numerous topics and his influence on the sector was affirmed when he became the first Latin American to be elected Chairman of the Project Management Institute.

Listen to Ricardo Vargas and PMO Joe discuss these topics further in E89 on Project Management Office Hours and do not forget to subscribe https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/project-management-office-hours/id1398533604

Passionate about transforming ideas into action, Ricardo Vargas is a chief advocate in the project economy. Learn more and connect with Ricardo Vargas
https://ricardo-vargas.com/
https://www.linkedin.com/in/ricardovargas
https://twitter.com/rvvargas
https://www.instagram.com/rvvargas/

Thank you to THE PMO SQUAD and The PMO Leader for sponsoring this show.

Are you struggling to find the best PM resources to drive your projects and PMO forward? Contact The PMO Squad to learn how they can help you drive successful project outcomes.
Learn more about The PMO Squad – www.thepmosquad.com

Where do PMO Leaders go for Information, Learning, Networking and Services? The PMO Leader community has Everything You Need to Become a Great PMO Leader. One PMO World, One Community!

Learn more about The PMO Leader – www.thepmoleader.com

Passionate about transforming ideas into action, Ricardo Vargas is a chief advocate in the project economy. Specializing in implementing innovative global initiatives, capital projects and product development, Ricardo has directed dozens of projects across industries and continents, managing more than $20 billion in global initiatives over the past 25 years.

Ricardo shares his expertise with millions of professionals around the globe through his “5 Minutes Podcast,” which he’s hosted since 2007.

He has written 15 books on project management, risk and crisis management, and transformation, which have been translated into six languages and sold more than half a million copies. His influence on the sector was affirmed when he became the first Latin American to be elected Chairman of the Project Management Institute.

More than two decades ago, he founded Macrosolutions, a global consulting firm with international operations in energy, infrastructure, IT, oil and finance.

His work as a venture capitalist and entrepreneur in artificial intelligence, blockchain, big data, chatbots and machine learning resulted in tools and products that have revolutionized how users bring agility and agile management into project management software.

Between 2016 and 2020, Ricardo directed the Brightline Initiative, a Project Management Institute think tank bringing together leading organizations into a coalition dedicated to helping executives bridge the expensive, unproductive gap between strategic design and delivery.

Prior to his work with Brightline, Ricardo was Director of the United Nations Office for Project Services (UNOPS) Infrastructure and Project Management Group, leading more than 1,000 projects and $1.2 billion in humanitarian and development projects.

Ricardo holds a Ph.D. in Civil Engineering from Federal Fluminense University in Brazil and an undergraduate degree in Chemical Engineering, as well as a master’s degree in Industrial Engineering from Federal University of Minas Gerais in Brazil.

Connect with Ricardo on LinkedIn, Facebook, Twitter and Instagram.

ABOUT PROJECT MANAGEMENT OFFICE HOURS SERIES

Project Management Office Hours is intended to provide Project Management professionals a place to drop in and discuss Success Stories, Best Practices, and Lessons Learned. Project Management Consultant Joy Gumz has shared with us, “Operations keep the lights on, strategy provides the light at the end of the tunnel, but project management is the train engine that moves the organization forward.”

Each of us has a unique story to tell, but collectively we share a message that organizations who embrace Project Management Best Practices perform better than those which don’t. Organizations which align Projects to Strategy perform better. Organizations with Engage Executive Sponsors deliver better results. Organizations which measure Project Management performance outperform those which don’t.

During our Project Management Office Hours, we hear directly from Industry leaders how to make an impact in our profession. How we, collectively, will Advance Project Management Best Practices, One Listener at a time!

ABOUT YOUR HOST

Joe Pusz started THE PMO SQUAD to bring real world PMO Leadership experience to the consulting space and to advocate for Project Management through his blog PMOJOE.com. The old saying is “Do what you love and you’ll never work a day in your life.” Following this mindset Joe left Corporate America in 2013 to start THE PMO SQUAD and work with fellow Natural Born Project Managers to advance Project Management Best Practices.

ABOUT OUR SPONSOR

THE PMO SQUAD focuses exclusively on PMO and Project Management consulting. Corporate America is full of Accidental Project Managers running projects who haven’t been trained to be PMs. To help solve this problem THE PMO SQUAD is on the Leading Edge with PMO As a Service. PMO As a Service allows our clients to focus on their respective core competencies while THE PMO SQUAD delivers Project Management expertise. Contact Joe at 678-591-7868. Follow The PMO Squad on LinkedIn, Twitter and Facebook.

Where do PMO Leaders go for Information, Learning, Networking and Services? The PMO Leader community has “Everything You Need to Become a Great PMO Leader”. One PMO World, One Community! Learn more about The PMO Leader – www.thepmoleader.com

Life Before Work E77

October 21, 2021 by Karen

Phoenix Business Radio

Life Before Work E77

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Life Before Work E77

In this episode, hosts Austin and Landon interview Thomas Bridge, CEO of Media Management Inc.

Media Management, Inc. (“MMi”) was founded in 1995 with the sole purposes of providing U.S. advertisers with an objective evaluation of their ad agencies performance.

Tune in to here how Thomas has created one of the best working environments for his employees and how their business thrives on putting life before work.

MMi not stresses the importance of work life balance along with creating lifetime relationships with clients.

When listening you’ll hear how a 40 hour work week and 100% paid medical premiums play a huge role in ultimate quality production and team work at MMi. Grab your resume, because you will want to apply to this company after hearing this interview.

Media Management, Inc. (“MMi”) was founded in 1995 with the sole purposes of providing U.S. advertisers with an objective evaluation of their ad agencies performance.

MMi has proprietary patented software that allows them to access 100% of the media buy data from the client’s ad agency. Additional, have a full research subscription for all TV ratings in the U.S. + access to all digital audience data.

Typicall ad budgets they work with range from $5M annually to $2 billion annually, across all industries: Automotive, Telco, Pharma, Packaged Goods, Services & Tourism

They employ 45 full time employees, with the majority of their team being located in St. Louis, Missouri.

Thomas Bridge started in advertising in the mid 1980’s before cable TV. He rose from a small regional ad agency to managing TV investments for one of the largest ad agencies in the U.S.

He started MMi in 1995 after being approached by former clients that were in need of an objective third party assessment of their media investments. His former client didn’t like the idea of the ad agency grading their own homework.

Throughout the process of building MMi, he realized that two critical components were required for success:

People. The right people with the right backgrounds were needed in order to ensure that the firm could drive value to all sized advertisers, and
Software. When started, the only true tool for a small firm was excel. Thomas originally built the audit workbooks in Excel. That was quickly phased out and with the addition of a Chief Information Officer, he was able to design & patent their Circle Audit Software.

Thomas & his team are considered the U.S. authority on media accountability, media research and media buying software systems.

Connect with Thomas on LinkedIn.

About the Show

About Your Hosts

Connect with Austin on LinkedIn, Facebook, Twitter, and Instagram.

Landon received his B.S. from California State University Long Beach in business marketing and gets the rest of his education through the school of hard knocks via his business owner clients.

Connect with Landon on LinkedIn.

Business RadioX® is a separate entity not affiliated with Lincoln Financial Advisors Corp.