Alec Torelli is a professional high-stakes poker player, entrepreneur, investor and speaker, who shares how the lessons he learned from poker can be applied to life and business. Alec Torelli is the founder of Conscious Poker, a popular poker training platform, and after spending the last 20 years making decisions for hundreds of thousands of dollars in a single hand, he now gives talks in which he dissects the anatomy of decision-making to help others hone the way they make choices. Through his blogs, videos and keynotes, Alec tackles subjects such as the role of luck in life, evaluating risk, maintaining a positive mindset, strengthening mental fortitude, handling adversity and setbacks, managing your bankroll and cultivating self-awareness. In addition to competing at poker, Alec is an established poker coach, investor, and author. He co-founded MHP Lifestyle, a company which buys, rehabs and operates mobile home parks. Together with his wife Ambra, they divide their time between SoCal, Vegas, New York, and Italy. -- Critical Mass Business Talk Show is Orange County, CA's longest-running business talk show, focused on offering value and insight to middle-market business leaders in the OC and beyond. Hosted by Ric Franzi, business partner at Renaissance Executive Forums Orange County. Learn more about Ric at www.ricfranzi.com. Catch up on past Critical Mass Business Talk Show interviews... YouTube: https://lnkd.in/gHKT2gmF LinkedIn: https://lnkd.in/g2PzRhjQ Podbean: https://lnkd.in/eWpNVRi Apple Podcasts: https://lnkd.in/gRd_863w Spotify: https://lnkd.in/gruexU6m #orangecountyca #mastermind #ceopeergroups #peergroups #peerlearning

Erin Shaver is the Founder & CEO of Taralumen Games, a company with a mission to create iconic video games with a mental health focus. Erin has ten years of leadership and production experience from her tenure as Director of Operations for IndieCade, the International Festival of Independent Games. She has a bachelor's degree in theater from Northwestern University, has studied psychology and neuroscience at Columbia University and University College of London, and has worked in research labs within the departments of psychology at NYU and Columbia University. Erin is also a proud mother and devout artist. -- Critical Mass Business Talk Show is Orange County, CA's longest-running business talk show, focused on offering value and insight to middle-market business leaders in the OC and beyond. Hosted by Ric Franzi, business partner at Renaissance Executive Forums Orange County. Learn more about Ric at www.ricfranzi.com. Catch up on past Critical Mass Business Talk Show interviews... YouTube: https://lnkd.in/gHKT2gmF LinkedIn: https://lnkd.in/g2PzRhjQ Podbean: https://lnkd.in/eWpNVRi Apple Podcasts: https://lnkd.in/gRd_863w Spotify: https://lnkd.in/gruexU6m #orangecountyca #mastermind #ceopeergroups #peergroups #peerlearning

Cleve Adams is Founder of the Trestles Group, Inc. His specialty is building and selling tech companies and has had 8 M&A Exits. Cleve has been fortunate enough to be named one of the Top 50 Non-Technical Founders In Tech Industry History, and to be Co-Founder and CEO of the #2 Company in Forbes's Most Promising Companies in America. He is also featured in the new Bestselling books "Cyberminds" and "Right Leaders, Right Time." Cleve is a 5-time award-winning VC/PE-backed Transactional CEO managing companies from pre-revenue to over $2 billion and has been hired by VC/PE firms to build and sell their portfolio companies. Cleve's average return to investors is 21x. He helped start, build and manage the largest company in the SaaS/Cloud cybersecurity software market from pre-revenue to a $1.0B IPO, the largest in San Diego county history and the first Cybersecurity Unicorn.  Cleve has over 20+ years of senior management, operations, sales and marketing experience in Security software, AI, Mobile, Wireless, SaaS/Cloud, Mobile security, digital and social media and Fintech. He has built a successful sales and marketing channel of 1100 resellers and distributors in 82 countries. Cleve has expertise in raising capital and has raised over $300M from tier-one VC’s for multiple companies. Cleve led the team that started security titan Websense and grew them from pre-revenue to a $1 Billion IPO in less than 3 years. The company was subsequently sold to Raytheon for $2 billion. Cleve has been honored to serve as a software industry expert and speaker at numerous conferences, universities and corporations including the Harvard Alumni Assoc, Amazon, Investor Conferences, Cyber Security and Smart City Conferences. He has been quoted in top business publications including The Wall Street Journal, Forbes, and many more. -- Critical Mass Business Talk Show is Orange County, CA's longest-running business talk show, focused on offering value and insight to middle-market business leaders in the OC and beyond. Hosted by Ric Franzi, business partner at Renaissance Executive Forums Orange County. Learn more about Ric at www.ricfranzi.com. Catch up on past Critical Mass Business Talk Show interviews... YouTube: https://lnkd.in/gHKT2gmF LinkedIn: https://lnkd.in/g2PzRhjQ Podbean: https://lnkd.in/eWpNVRi Apple Podcasts: https://lnkd.in/gRd_863w Spotify: https://lnkd.in/gruexU6m #orangecountyca #mastermind #ceopeergroups #peergroups #peerlearning

Max Emma came to the United States from the former Soviet Union with his family over 30 years ago. His first job was busing the tables at a local restaurant while learning English. Then, after graduating with honors with a degree in finance, Max worked in the corporate finance department of Qualcomm.  Four years later, Max joined the family construction business, growing it from 3 to 96 employees. Years later, together with his co-founder Max came back to his roots and founded BooXkeeping, a company providing bookkeeping solutions nationwide to the franchisees of over 80 franchise brands.  With the hashtag #coolbeancounters, BooXkeeping now is offering its own bookkeeping franchises to entrepreneurs from coast to coast. In his free time, Max likes to travel, spend time with his kids and friends or enjoy an occasional cigar with a single malt.  -- Critical Mass Business Talk Show is Orange County, CA's longest-running business talk show, focused on offering value and insight to middle-market business leaders in the OC and beyond. Hosted by Ric Franzi, business partner at Renaissance Executive Forums Orange County. Learn more about Ric at www.ricfranzi.com. Catch up on past Critical Mass Business Talk Show interviews... YouTube: https://lnkd.in/gHKT2gmF LinkedIn: https://lnkd.in/g2PzRhjQ Podbean: https://lnkd.in/eWpNVRi Apple Podcasts: https://lnkd.in/gRd_863w Spotify: https://lnkd.in/gruexU6m #orangecountyca #mastermind #ceopeergroups #peergroups #peerlearning

Steven Vengrow is the founder of Synergy Resource Group, a boutique executive search firm based in Southern California.  He specializes in helping senior business leaders find, attract and retain the Top 5% Talent for their mission-critical positions! Steven has 15 years of talent acquisition and executive search experience. Over this time, he has developed an extensive network of clients and candidates. His company, Synergy Resource Group provides their clients with customized solutions to meet their talent acquisition needs in the areas of Information Technology, Accounting, and Finance. The company has provided top-level talent to clients both locally and nationally at companies ranging in size from start-ups to Fortune 500. Prior to working in the Executive Search industry, Steven spent almost 10 years working in corporate finance and investment banking.  He holds an MBA from The Paul Merage School of Business at the University of California, Irvine, and an undergraduate degree from California State Polytechnic University in Pomona. -- Critical Mass Business Talk Show is Orange County, CA's longest-running business talk show, focused on offering value and insight to middle-market business leaders in the OC and beyond. Hosted by Ric Franzi, business partner at Renaissance Executive Forums Orange County. Learn more about Ric at www.ricfranzi.com. Catch up on past Critical Mass Business Talk Show interviews... YouTube: https://lnkd.in/gHKT2gmF LinkedIn: https://lnkd.in/g2PzRhjQ Podbean: https://lnkd.in/eWpNVRi Apple Podcasts: https://lnkd.in/gRd_863w Spotify: https://lnkd.in/gruexU6m #orangecountyca #mastermind #ceopeergroups #peergroups #peerlearning

Anne Devine is the CEO of Janus Electric, a leader in groundbreaking EV battery technology and revolutionary exchangeable battery systems for heavy vehicles. Before joining Janus Electric, Ms. Devine served as Romeo Power’s Chief Operating Officer, where she was responsible for managing operating and production capabilities, driving operational excellence, improving efficiencies, and transforming the Company’s commercial EV battery manufacturing processes from prototype to commercial production. Ms. Devine has more than 25 years of diverse experience in operational and manufacturing management, with unique automotive industry expertise from tenures at Ford, Navistar and UGN, as well as supply chain development, procurement, program management, vehicle launch, engineering and operations. Ms. Devine holds a Master of Science in Engineering Management from the University of Michigan and a Bachelor of Science in Industrial Engineering from Kettering University. Throughout her career, Ms. Devine has given back through involvement in professional and community organizations, including STEM-related initiatives that inspire the next generation of leaders in science, technology, engineering and math. Ms. Devine is currently a member of the Automotive Women’s Alliance, Women of Renewable Industries and Sustainable Energy, California State University, Long Beach’s 100+ Women Strong program. -- Critical Mass Business Talk Show is Orange County, CA's longest-running business talk show, focused on offering value and insight to middle-market business leaders in the OC and beyond. Hosted by Ric Franzi, business partner at Renaissance Executive Forums Orange County. Learn more about Ric at www.ricfranzi.com. Catch up on past Critical Mass Business Talk Show interviews... YouTube: https://lnkd.in/gHKT2gmF LinkedIn: https://lnkd.in/g2PzRhjQ Podbean: https://lnkd.in/eWpNVRi Apple Podcasts: https://lnkd.in/gRd_863w Spotify: https://lnkd.in/gruexU6m #orangecountyca #mastermind #ceopeergroups #peergroups #peerlearning

Chris Relth is a seasoned professional with 18 years of experience in the talent industry, recognized as a thought leader and an agent of change. He is the Founder and CEO of Artemis Search Partners, a specialized staffing and executive search organization, where he brings a tenacious approach to concierge-style permanent search and staffing services. Additionally, Chris is a Managing Partner for Artemis United, a DVBE-certified joint venture that works with the state, fed, and clients to help meet their vendor diversity needs. Artemis United only hires military veterans internally to help with their transition to the civilian workforce. Chris's leadership philosophy is rooted in the belief that fostering a supportive and collaborative work environment is critical to the success of his team and ultimately leads to successful outcomes for his clients. His company is dedicated to the satisfaction of its team members and is committed to contributing to positive, long-lasting impact through the promotion of happier, healthier workforces. A Bay Area native, Chris holds a degree from Chico State University and has been a resident of Orange County for over a decade, where he currently resides in Ladera Ranch, CA. In his free time, Chris channels his energy into philanthropic pursuits as a partner of Miracles for Kids and sits on various boards. He is also a youth football and baseball coach and is heavily involved in fitness.  -- Critical Mass Business Talk Show is Orange County, CA's longest-running business talk show, focused on offering value and insight to middle-market business leaders in the OC and beyond. Hosted by Ric Franzi, business partner at Renaissance Executive Forums Orange County. Learn more about Ric at www.ricfranzi.com. Catch up on past Critical Mass Business Talk Show interviews... YouTube: https://lnkd.in/gHKT2gmF LinkedIn: https://lnkd.in/g2PzRhjQ Podbean: https://lnkd.in/eWpNVRi Apple Podcasts: https://lnkd.in/gRd_863w Spotify: https://lnkd.in/gruexU6m #orangecountyca #mastermind #ceopeergroups #peergroups #peerlearning

Kevin Murphy has over 30 years’ experience in the securities industry, and his extensive background includes the development of several broker-dealers and clearing firms from their inception to maturity. Kevin began his career on the floor of the Pacific Stock Exchange as an Options trader in San Francisco, and later moved to Los Angeles where he traded Equities at the Exchange in Los Angeles. He was the Owner and CEO of Velox Securities and prior to that, the CEO of Electronic Transaction Clearing Inc ("ETC"). Prior to joining ETC, Kevin was also Executive Vice President of Operations and Trading for National Clearing Corporation, a premier Clearing firm in Beverly Hills California. Additionally, Mr. Murphy has frequently served as a resource for FINRA and the SEC in guidance regarding Clearing and Execution in US Equities and Options. Currently, Mr. Murphy is the CEO of Valuable Capital Securities, a growing International conglomerate owned by the SINA Corporation with entries in Hong Kong, Singapore, Malaysia, Riyadh, and now Irvine, investing in Equities, Options, Futures and Crypto, along with a Registered Investment Advisor arm. Kevin holds FINRA licenses 7, 24, 55, 63 and 65. -- Critical Mass Business Talk Show is Orange County, CA's longest-running business talk show, focused on offering value and insight to middle-market business leaders in the OC and beyond. Hosted by Ric Franzi, business partner at Renaissance Executive Forums Orange County. Learn more about Ric at www.ricfranzi.com. Catch up on past Critical Mass Business Talk Show interviews... YouTube: https://lnkd.in/gHKT2gmF LinkedIn: https://lnkd.in/g2PzRhjQ Podbean: https://lnkd.in/eWpNVRi Apple Podcasts: https://lnkd.in/gRd_863w Spotify: https://lnkd.in/gruexU6m #orangecountyca #mastermind #ceopeergroups #peergroups #peerlearning

Davey Martinez is the Chief Executive Officer of Taqueros Mexican Food. With five years of experience working alongside several Fortune 100 companies, Davey uses his robust corporate experience to revitalize small business operations and directs strategy execution to promote expansion. Davey specializes in lean six sigma techniques and is responsible for educating other employees on using progressive systems and applications, including artificial intelligence programs, effective communication procedures and organizational apps. Davey is a Veteran who served in the United States Army for 16 years first with the 82nd Airborne and then with the 217th Explosive Ordnance Disposal Group. His combined business acumen and military experience assists his workplace with motivation, empowerment, and inspirational courage. Davey is inspired daily by his wife and their two children. In his free time, Davey likes to run, sing and play video games with his friends. -- Critical Mass Business Talk Show is Orange County, CA's longest-running business talk show, focused on offering value and insight to middle-market business leaders in the OC and beyond. Hosted by Ric Franzi, business partner at Renaissance Executive Forums Orange County. Learn more about Ric at www.ricfranzi.com. Catch up on past Critical Mass Business Talk Show interviews... YouTube: https://lnkd.in/gHKT2gmF LinkedIn: https://lnkd.in/g2PzRhjQ Podbean: https://lnkd.in/eWpNVRi Apple Podcasts: https://lnkd.in/gRd_863w Spotify: https://lnkd.in/gruexU6m #orangecountyca #mastermind #ceopeergroups #peergroups #peerlearning

Bill Colone is the CEO and Chairman of Single Pass, a new Orange County-based start-up company developing a unique electrocautery device for use during deep tissue biopsy procedures. Bill formerly served as the CEO at Spinal Singularity, a seed-stage medical device development company in San Clemente, CA. Under Mr. Colone, the company raised over $6.6 million in dilutive funding and over $5.1 million in non-dilutive funding for product development, clinical studies, and regulatory approvals. Prior to Spinal Singularity, he served as the VP of R&D for Direct Flow Medical until its sudden closure in November of 2017. He has over three decades of medical device development experience, including ten years as President of Endomed, until its sale in February 2005. Mr. Colone has vast knowledge of ePTFE and endovascular prostheses and is recognized for his contributions to endoluminal technology and vascular surgery. Prior to Direct Flow Medical, he served as Director of Research and Development, and later Director of Aortic Procedure Development, for Endologix. Mr.Colone directed the development of the Nellix Endovascular Aneurysm Sealing System through design completion, CE trial completion, CE Mark approval, and OUS commercial launch. He also contributed to the procedure development and training for the US IDE investigation centers leading to the fastest enrolled IDE trial for an EVAR device. Mr. Colone holds 13 US patents for medical devices with others pending. He also served as Director of Operations for IMPRA, Inc. (now Bard Peripheral Vascular) prior to founding Endomed. Mr. Colone holds a bachelor’s degree in Chemical Engineering from Arizona State University where he is a member of the ASU Advisory Committee for Chemical and Materials Engineering. Mr. Colone also served as an Associate Faculty Member at ASU from 2004 through 2007 and was a Founding Member and Board Member of the Arizona Technology Investor Forum. -- Critical Mass Business Talk Show is Orange County, CA's longest-running business talk show, focused on offering value and insight to middle-market business leaders in the OC and beyond. Hosted by Ric Franzi, business partner at Renaissance Executive Forums Orange County. Learn more about Ric at www.ricfranzi.com. Catch up on past Critical Mass Business Talk Show interviews... YouTube: https://lnkd.in/gHKT2gmF LinkedIn: https://lnkd.in/g2PzRhjQ Podbean: https://lnkd.in/eWpNVRi Apple Podcasts: https://lnkd.in/gRd_863w Spotify: https://lnkd.in/gruexU6m #orangecountyca #mastermind #ceopeergroups #peergroups #peerlearning