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Veterans Connect Radio Episode 022

Veterans Connect Radio

A spotlight episode of Atlanta Business Radio and powered by Business RadioX. Co-Hosted by Ryan “Redhawk” McPherson and Brandon Skolnick with Gathering Of Angels. Featuring veteran entrepreneurs, support organizations, outreach groups and more in the Atlanta area continuing to serve our families, our communities and our country. 

#VetsConnect
@VetConnectRadio

 

 

Kyle Moore / Lazenby Law Group

Twitter     Facebook     LinkedIn

 

Rich Watson / Wounded Warrior Project Project Odyssey

&

Jason Bush / Wounded Warrior Project Project Odyssey

Twitter     Facebook

 

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Veterans Connect Radio Episode 021

Veterans Connect Radio

A spotlight episode of Atlanta Business Radio and powered by Business RadioX. Co-Hosted by Ryan “Redhawk” McPherson and Brandon Skolnick with Gathering Of Angels. Featuring veteran entrepreneurs, support organizations, outreach groups and more in the Atlanta area continuing to serve our families, our communities and our country. 

#VetsConnect
@VetConnectRadio

VCR Ep.021

Vonetta Daniels and Carl Gebo

 

Carl Gebo / Government Contractors Assistance & Resource Line, LLC  (G-CARL)
Founder & President

Carl received his Commission as a US. Army 2nd Lieutenant when he graduated from University of Notre Dame in 1986. His 1st Active Duty Assignment was at Ft. Rucker, Alabama — the Home of Army Aviation. For the next 6 years he was a Combat Helicopter Pilot stationed in Korea during the 1988 Olympics; Panama During Operation Just Cause; and Saudi Arabia & Iraq during Operations Desert Shield and Desert Storm. Based out of Ft. Bragg for the remainder of his active duty service, he left the Army as a Captain in 1992 after receiving Army Expeditionary Force and Commendation Medals as as the Army Air Medal for his service in Desert Storm. Carl went  to Northwestern University School of Law in Chicago. Graduated in 1995 and came to Atlanta. Since then he has practiced Government Contracts Law as a partner at one Atlanta’s oldest and most respected law firms and then joined another nationally recognized firm before launching the Government Contractors Assistance & Resource Line or GCARL in 2010 to help companies Win, Keep, and Profit From Government Contracts through Direct and Strategic Assistance

LinkedIn     Facebook     Twitter

 

 

Vonetta Daniels / VYD and Associates
President and CEO

Vonetta Daniels is an Air Force Veteran and President & CEO of VYD and Associates. VYD and Associates provides Management & Strategy Consulting services to a diversity of government, commercial and non-profit clients to include the Small Business Association (SBA), the U.S. Department of Labor (DOL), Georgia Institute of Technology (Georgia Tech) and the East Lake Foundation. Vonetta has more than 20 years of professional experience which includes Management Consulting experience with BearingPoint, PwC (PricewaterhouseCoopers), internal consultant for SunTrust Banks, and industry experience in Public Health, Research, Higher Education, Government, Non-Profits, Education and Community Partners and Financial Services.

In 2015 Vonetta was nominated for Department of Labor Advisory Committee on Veterans & Employment, Training, and Employer Outreach (ACVETEO) and Awarded 2016 Veteran Entrepreneur of the Year by the DeKalb County Veterans’ Affairs Advisory Board. Vonetta is an alumna of the University of Virginia and Emory University with a Bachelor of Arts in Economics and Political Science, and an AmeriCorps National Service Alumna.

LinkedIn     Facebook     Twitter

 

 

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Veterans Connect Radio Episode 018

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Veterans Connect Radio

A spotlight episode of Atlanta Business Radio and powered by Business RadioX. Co-Hosted by Ryan “Redhawk” McPherson and Brandon Skolnick with Gathering Of Angels. Featuring veteran entrepreneurs, support organizations, outreach groups and more in the Atlanta area continuing to serve our families, our communities and our country. 

#VetsConnect
@VetConnectRadio

 

Veterans Connect Radio “Fire Your Guns”
Dec. 02 6-8pm

 

 

Veterans Rally in the Woods
Dec. 09-11 2016

 

 

 

Charlie Whitfield / Whitty IT Solutions
CEO

Charlie Whitfield is the CEO of Whitty Apps LLC, a SBA certified 8(a), HUBZone, SDVOSB, WBE, MBE, Woman Owned and Operated Company.
Whitty IT Solutions, LLC is a Software Engineering & Technology Integration company. We deliver next generation innovative solutions that address our client’s needs. Our expertise centers around Technology Strategies including the following: Information Technology, Risk Management and Software Engineering.
Technology Integration | Application Development & Management | Enterprise Risk Management | Custom Computer Programming | IT Consulting and Strategy | Native, Mobile and Web Applications | Cyber Security | Data Hosting and Related Services | Computer Systems Design | Project Management | Program Management |

 

David Rowell

I am currently working for a Large IT company in Alpharetta. I grew up an Air Force brat, and I finished Middle and High School in Metro Atlanta. I attending Georgia Southern University and upon graduation I enlisted in the Marine Corps. I served 5 years in the Marine Corps as an Infantryman in Panama, Kosovo, and Iraq (03). After my time in the Marines, I got into government contracting and worked in Iraq and Afghanistan. Eventually, starting my own government contracting company that focussed on providing services and support in the frontier regions of North Africa, Afghanistan, and the Middle East. I was able to move back to Atlanta and pivot into IT where I am a customer success manager supporting Fortune 500 company’s IT Divisions.

I have recently completed my MBA from Georgia Tech with a concentration in Management of Technology. I am a “hang around” in the startup scene around Atlanta. I am interested in technologies like AI that give SMB’s a competitive advantage in the marketplace.

    Thank you

sharpshootersusa

Veterans Connect Radio Episode 017

Veterans Connect Radio

A spotlight episode of Atlanta Business Radio and powered by Business RadioX. Co-Hosted by Ryan “Redhawk” McPherson and Brandon Skolnick with Gathering Of Angels. Featuring veteran entrepreneurs, support organizations, outreach groups and more in the Atlanta area continuing to serve our families, our communities and our country. 

#VetsConnect
@VetConnectRadio

Veterans Rally in the Woods
Dec. 09-11 2016

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Matt Gob, Damon Gabriel, Clayton Still

 

 

Matthew A. Grob / United States Department of Labor
Veterans’ Employment and Training Service Office of Strategic Outreach
Atlanta, Georgia / Veterans.Gov

VETLANTA / Director of Stategic Planning

Matthew Grob entered on duty as the Atlanta Regional Veterans’ Employment Coordinator for the U.S. Department of Labor (DOL), Veterans’ Employment and Training Service (VETS) on June 29th, 2015.  As the Regional Veterans’ Employment Coordinator Matthew provides employment resources and expertise, through outreach to businesses, employer groups, Veterans’ organizations, state workforce partners and government agencies to promote Veterans’ employment opportunities and coordinate veterans employment initiatives with the DOL VETS and state workforce agencies in Alabama, Florida, Georgia, Kentucky, Mississippi, North Carolina, South Carolina and Tennessee.

Matthew enlisted in the US Army in 1989 and served as an Intelligence Specialist in Operations Desert Shield and Desert Storm, and tours in Germany and Italy from 1990 through 1996.  He then separated from active duty and enrolled in the Simultaneous Membership Program in the Wisconsin Army National Guard and the Army ROTC program.  He was a Distinguished Military Graduate and commissioned a Second Lieutenant in July, 1999.  Matthew’s recent assignments include directing a Human Resources department of a transportation agency and commanding a regional Human Resources unit in Germany and Kuwait.  He culminated his military career managing Army-wide transformation programs over a 6-year period as the Senior Program Manager and Force Development Officer for Headquarters, US Army Europe. 

Upon retirement, Matthew and his family relocated from Heidelberg, Germany to the Atlanta, Georgia area and found most meaning and purpose in serving his fellow Veterans, their families and the military community.  He is a lifetime member of the Veterans of Foreign Wars, a member of the Atlanta Chapter of Team Red, White and Blue, and is actively involved in numerous local veterans’ organizations.  In September 2015, Matthew was elected to the position of Executive Secretary and Executive Committee Member of VETLANTA, and in August 2016 he assumed the new role of Director of Strategy.  He most recently served as a Veteran Transition Specialist with Hire Heroes USA, a nationwide non-profit organization providing personalized transition and career coaching to US military Veterans, service members and their spouses. 

Matthew is currently in the Executive MBA Program at Emory University’s Goizueta Business School.  He has a background in Program and Project Management with Lean Six Sigma training and experience.  His career is supported by a Bachelor of Arts in Business Management & Communication from Concordia University – Wisconsin, and a Master of Arts in International Relations from Webster University. 

 

 

 

Clayton Still / Power Home Remodeling
Marekting Mentor

Clayton Still, I am currently a Marketing Mentor for Power Home Remodeling Group. I was born and raised in Snellville, Georgia where I attended South Gwinnett High School. After graduating with a 3.8 GPA from South Gwinnett High School I attended Middle Georgia College in Cochran GA on a full academic scholarship. I received an associates degree from Middle Georgia College in 2008 and I transferred to Georgia State University. Upon transferring I enlisted into the Georgia Army National Guard where I served 6 years as a 31B or Military Police. I graduated from Basic and AIT from Fort Leonardwood Missouri. After graduating basic I served in the 178th MP Co, 190th MP Co, 179th MP Co. In 2011-2012 I deployed to Bagram Afghanistan in support of Operation Enduring Freedom. I also deployed in 2013-2014 with the 179th MP Co to Kabul Afghanistan doing Security Escorts and Quick Reaction Forces also in support of Operation Enduring Freedom. I was honorably discharged from the  Georgia Army National Guard in 2015 as a SGT. I am currently a Marketing Mentor in the Atlanta office for Power Home Remodeling Group. I have been with Power Home Remodeling for two years and I’m excited to not only continue to grow as a professional but also to be able to help veterans find a place where they can truly accomplish their american dream utilizing Power’s Veteran Initiative.

 

 

Damon Gabriel / Power Home Remodeling
Quality Assurance Manager
Originally From Seattle Washington, I enlisted in the United States Marine Corps when I was 17. Shortly after graduation from High School I shipped out for boot camp in San Diego California.
After a full work up with my unit I deployed to Afghanistan in the spring of 2010. While on deployment I was struck by IEDs twice which ultimately lead to the end of my unfortunately short Marine Corps career. I sustained severe spinal injuries due to the strikes and was not able to re-enlist in 2012 as the Marine Corps felt I was no longer fit for duty in my occupation.
After transitioning out of the Marine Corps in 2012, my girlfriend at the time who is now my wife and I decided to move to Atlanta to start our new lives. She is originally from Atlanta so it was nice to have her family here to help us out while we got on our feet.
I had a job prior to working for Power for about a year but I never really got that sense of purpose that I had while in the Corps. I was laid off in the end because of industry regulation that destroyed the small company I was working for at that time and within two weeks I had found Power.
When I started with Power I was in the entry level marketing position which served me really well while I was getting immersed in the culture and figuring my life out. Right from the start I knew I was going to love working here because of the commradarie you could feel in the office. It felt very similar to the Marine Corps and I really liked that.
As time went on I found myself in a management position in the marketing department and then was able to be promoted and transferred into the sales department where within a year I was mentoring our new consultants and helping to develop our leadership/and office.
Now adays I’m married to my beautiful wife Samantha and we have a home in Brookhaven that we share with our son Theo… I say share because it has quickly become his house and we just live there, clean it and pay the bills!.. As for my Career with Power I’m in the Quality Assurance department as a manager where I go out to our active installs and ensure that our customers are having the five star experience that we talk about during our initial consultation and make sure that all our products are going in per spec.

 

 

 

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Veterans Connect Radio Episode 015

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Veterans Connect Radio

A spotlight episode of Atlanta Business Radio and powered by Business RadioX. Co-Hosted by Ryan “Redhawk” McPherson and Brandon Skolnick with Gathering Of Angels. Featuring veteran entrepreneurs, support organizations, outreach groups and more in the Atlanta area continuing to serve our families, our communities and our country. 

#VetsConnect
@VetConnectRadio

 

 

 

Gretchen G. Evans Command Sergeant Major (R)  / U.S. Army
Veterans Outreach, Marketing and Communications Lead
Emory Healthcare Veterans Program

Emory’s Veterans Program offers post-9/11 veterans expert and collaborative care to help heal the invisible wounds of war. Our comprehensive approach combines behavioral health care, including psychiatry and neurology, rehabilitative medicine, wellness, and family support to help you reintegrate and reclaim your life.

Gretchen G. Evans is a A native of Texas, CSM (R) Gretchen G. Evans entered the United States Army in September 1979. Shortly after completing Basic Training at Fort Leonardwood, MO and Intelligence Analysis School at Fort Huachuca, AZ she reported to Heidelberg, German where she was assigned an Intelligence Analysis for the Command in Chief, Europe. She was a lead analyst in the Peacetime Aerial Reconnaissance Program responsible for directing aerial reconnaissance for multiple platforms to include the SR-71 aircraft.

CSM Evans was then selected to attend the Counterintelligence Program at Fort Huachuca to become a Counterintelligence Agent. Following this came her assignment to the Defense Language Institute in Monterey, CA where she studied German and Italian. Following graduation from language school she was assigned to the 66th Military Intelligence Group, Field Office Vicenza, Italy. She was directly involved in the pursuit and subsequent release of General Dozier from his kidnappers.

CSM Evans was then selected to become a member of a black operations unit. She attended Basic Airborne and Advance Airborne (High Altitude Low Opening) training at Fort Benning, GA. There were numerous other training requirements to include Bill Street’s Driving School, Sniper training, Demolition training and covert operations training before CSM Evans began her black operations career. During this time she also deployed with the 82nd Airborne Division on many occasions.

After her black operations CSM Evans then reentered the “Green Army” with an assignment to the 313th Military Intelligence Battalion, Fort Bragg, N.C. and the 519th Military Intelligence Battalion, Fort Hood, Texas.

CSM Evans then was assigned to the National Guard for a number of years. She served with the Arizona and Texas National Guard. During her tenue with the Arkansas National Guard she mobilized units on 11 September 2001, and was the Non-Commissioned Officer in Charge of securing all airports and military installations for the state of Arkansas. She later became the personal security officer for Governor Mike Huckabee. She deployed as the First Sergeant of the 216thMilitary Police Company to Guantanamo Bay. Her company was responsible to set up and receive the incoming detainees from Afghanistan. Also, while in Arkansas she was selected by Governor Huckabee to head up his drug interdiction program to help rid the state of Arkansas of meth labs.

CSM Evans was then transferred to the Texas National Guard with the 136th Signal Battalion. She was pulled from this Battalion to go with the 111th Area Support Group to Afghanistan. She was the Command Sergeant Major of Commander, Combined Forces Command, and Afghanistan. She was responsible for the security and personnel on all bases and forwarding operation bases in Afghanistan.

CSM Evans sustained combat injuries while serving in Afghanistan.

CSM Evans awards include: the Bronze Star, six Meritorious Service Medals, campaign medals from Grenada, Somalia, Bosnia, Kosovo, Operation Enduring Freedom and Operation Iraqi Freedom and numerous other citations and medals for action.

CSM Evans currently works for Emory Healthcare Veterans Program as the Lead, Veterans Outreach Coordinator and serves as a member of the Executive Board for America’s VETDOGS. She has a hearing service dog named Aura.

CSM Evans retired with 27 years of total service and currently resides with her husband, Robert in Decatur, GA.

 

 

Kenneth Morton / Elekta
Product Support Specialist

Born and raised in St. Thomas, USVI Kenneth Morton graduated from high school in 1990 and, following in the footsteps of an older brother, he joined the Navy and set off to see the world.

Over the course of twenty years and multiple tours of duty, Kenneth was stationed in California and Washington State, where he was deployed on aircraft carriers in the Gulf and honed his skills as an aviation electronics technician. Rising through the ranks he held the positions of Work Center Supervisor, Instructor and Training Petty Officer. His last rank before retirement was Petty First Class Officer.

“When I left the Navy in 2010, I knew I wanted a job that made a difference but I wasn’t sure what that would be. Of course I knew about cancer but I wasn’t familiar with radiation oncology. Today I have a job that matters. I make sure that the patient on the table gets the treatment they need, when they need it.”

Throughout his naval career, Kenneth learned to maintain, troubleshoot and repair sophisticated equipment and also managed the software systems that support the machines. The skills he developed in the Navy prepared him for his second career in the medical device industry, but the military gave Kenneth much more than a technical education.

“In the military, you’re exposed to diverse cultures and people. You learn to understand and respect where people are coming from and how to emphasize their strengths. Being in the military taught me to stay calm in high-pressure situations and get the issue resolved.”

Kenneth joined Elekta in 2011 and after four years as a Field Service Engineer, he moved to Atlanta and became a Product Support Specialist, with a principle role of providing real-time virtual technical support to leading medical institutions across the country.

“My military career gave me an education in life and I am proud to have served our country for twenty years. Building a career in medical technology has also given a chance to serve people in need. It’s an overwhelmingly satisfying job.”

 

 

Glenn “GG” Dale Gordon / We Gotcha Back
Founder, President, CEO

“We Gotcha Back” is the latest invention brought to you by Gordon G Enterprizes Inc. 

Gordon G Enterprize inc has built a reputation synonymous with relief and support. This redesigned invention is a customized compression support belt that relieves the back, lumbar and total body. The belt induces improved blood circulation, which directly reduces pain and inflammation.

 With We Gotcha Back , total body relief goes much further. Paired with two cold 8″ by 12″ gel packs and two hot 8″ by 12″ gel packs, this compression support back belt kit answers the call for total body relief from Sciatic Nerve problems and arthritis.

 The direct benefits of using this product include: Weight loss and decreased dependancy on medication to manage pain.  The inventor of  “We Gotcha Back”, suffers from sciatic nerve problems and arthritis in the lower back, he has experienced back problems for over 25 years. After using the “We Gotcha Back” belt he no loger needs medication to manage the pain. “We Gotcha Back” is all you need.

GG”s Music     LinkedIn

 

 

 

 

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Veterans Connect Radio Episode 014

Veterans Connect Radio

A spotlight episode of Atlanta Business Radio and powered by Business RadioX. Co-Hosted by Ryan “Redhawk” McPherson and Brandon Skolnick with Gathering Of Angels. Featuring veteran entrepreneurs, support organizations, outreach groups and more in the Atlanta area continuing to serve our families, our communities and our country. 

#VetsConnect
@VetConnectRadio

 

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Shane Lazenby, Samir Patel, Ryan Redhawk and Brandon Skolnick

 

 

 

R. Shane Lazenby is the founder and managing member of Lazenby Law Group. After more than a decade of defending those accused of negligence in personal injury cases, Shane decided to reverse course and help the victims of serious injuries. With unparalleled compassion and limitless commitment, Shane quickly learned how much more rewarding and uplifting service as a victim’s advocate can be. Shane now focuses his practice on helping the victims of catastrophic personal injury and the families whose loved one has passed as a result of the negligence of another.

EDUCATION

Shane received his law degree in 1999 at the Walter F. George School of Law at Mercer University in Macon, Georgia. While at Mercer, Shane was a member of the Moot Court Board and the Mercer Law Review where he served as the Eleventh Circuit Survey Editor. Shane also received his Bachelor of Arts degree in Political Science, with a minor in Latin, from Mercer in 1994.

MILITARY SERVICE

Following law school, Shane returned to the United States Army where he served as a Judge Advocate with the 82d Airborne Division. Shane’s service included duties as the Regimental Judge Advocate for the 505th Parachute Infantry Regiment where he obtained a 100% conviction rate in the most active military justice jurisdiction in the United States Army. Shane was also selected to be the first Judge Advocate from the 82d Airborne Division to deploy to the Global War on Terrorism as counsel to the Commander of the 3d Battalion, 505th Parachute Infantry Regiment in Kandahar, Afghanistan. Shane was then selected to be the Operational Law Attorney for the 82d Airborne Division Commander in Bagram, Afghanistan where he served until returning home in December 2010, Shane retired from the Georgia Army National Guard after 21 years of total military service with the Georgia National Guard, United States Army, and Army Reserve. Shane joined the military in 1989 first serving as a combat medical specialist. In 1993, Shane graduated from Officer’s Candidate School and was commissioned as an Infantry Officer. Shane served as an Infantry Platoon Leader, Signal Platoon Leader, and Operations Officer with a Ranger-led, Airborne Long Range Surveillance Unit. Shane’s service awards include the coveted Ranger tab, the Master Parachutist Badge, the Air Assault Badge, and the Bronze Star for service in the Republic of Afghanistan during Operation Enduring Freedom. Shane’s service as an Army Ranger also included competition in the LTG David E. Grange Best Ranger Competition in 2002.

EXPERIENCE

After his return from Afghanistan, Shane transitioned into private practice with a prestigious trial defense firm in Atlanta, Georgia gaining invaluable experience and growth alongside some of Georgia’s finest defense and plaintiff attorneys. After deciding to depart big city life, Shane settled his family in Gainesville, Georgia. In Gainesville, Shane continued honing his skills as a partner with a Gainesville firm specializing in the defense of physicians accused of medical malpractice. In his career, Shane has tried more than fifty cases to verdict. His extensive experience was noted when he was selected as an Atlanta Magazine Georgia Super Lawyer Rising Star in 2009, 2010, 2011 and 2012.  Shane was also pleased to be selected as a Georgia Super Lawyer for Plaintiff’s Personal Injury in 2015; a peer reviewed award limitedto only the top 2.5% of Georgia’s attorneys. Shane also maintains a coveted AV Rating from Martindale Hubbell – the highest possible rating in both legal ability and ethical standards.  Shane was alsofortunate to graduate from Leadership Georgia in 2013.

SPECIALTIES

Shane specializes in representing the victims of automobile accidents, trucking accidents, motorcycle accidents, medical malpractice, landowner negligence and the families of those who have suffered a wrongful death. Shane is admitted to practice before the State and Superior Courts of Georgia, the United States District Court, the Court of Appeals of Georgia, the Eleventh Circuit Court of Appeals, and the Supreme Court of Georgia.

HOME LIFE

A native of Georgia, Shane was raised in the burgeoning metropolises of Lula and Gray, Georgia. Shane is married to the former Jennifer Trapnell of Gainesville. They have four beautiful children – Jackson, Allie, Sawyer, and Lillianna. The Lazenbys are members of Lakewood Baptist Church where Shane is a past Chairman of Lakewood’s Panel of Deacons.

 

 

Samir Patel/Mobilization Capital

Samir Patel is an Atlanta native. He graduated from West Point (2008) and served in numerous leadership positions with the US Army to include platoon leader, commander, chief of operations and a procurement/contracting official.  He has deployed to Iraq and Afghanistan.  He’s part of an investment group and his current focus is on building  Mobilization Capital. This company solves some of the most challenging cash-flow issues facing government contractors.
spatel@MobilizationCapital.com | 404-723-8410
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Veterans Connect Radio Episode 012

Veterans Connect Radio

A spotlight episode of Atlanta Business Radio and powered by Business RadioX. Co-Hosted by Ryan “Redhawk” McPherson and Brandon Skolnick with Gathering Of Angels. Featuring veteran entrepreneurs, support organizations, outreach groups and more in the Atlanta area continuing to serve our families, our communities and our country. 

#VetsConnect
@VetConnectRadio

 

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Sheb True / KSU

Sheb is a Professor of Marketing and Sr. International Officer in the Michael J. Coles College of Business at Kennesaw State University (KSU) in Georgia. He is also the Special Assistant to the Dean for Strategic Initiatives, the Founder and Director of the Georgia Advancing Veterans Education (GAVE) initiative, the Director of the Paul D. Coverdale Fellowship program for Returned Peace Corps Volunteers, and the Director of the United Nations PRME program in the Coles College.  He joined the faculty at KSU in 1998 and has served as the Associate Dean of Graduate Business Programs, and as the Director of the MBA the program that went from never being ranked to # 22 in the country by Bloomberg BusinessWeek.  He has published over 50 articles and edited 4 books, and created and edited the Journal of Executive Education.  He has led and participated in international programs for students and faculty in 53 countries.   He serves as a consultant to organizations in the area of marketing strategy and customer orientation.  Sheb received his Ph.D. from the University of Mississippi, an MBA from the University of Houston-Clear Lake, and a BBA from Stephen F. Austin State University.  He has been certified as a Master Teacher, completed programs at the Harvard Business School for teaching the case method and at the American Graduate School of Business (Thunderbird) for teaching international marketing, and was a a tenured faculty member at Loyola Marymount University in Los Angeles, California.

 

 

 

Dr. Terry W. Loe  PhD University of Memphis; MBA Mississippi State University; BS Mississippi State University

Professor, Kennesaw State University

Director, Center for Professional Selling

Executive Director, National Collegiate Sales Competition

Terry spent 11 years in industry in sales, marketing and management and has over 20 years of experience in sales research, training and consulting.  His recent sales training and consulting clients include NCR, Arch Chemical, AIG, and WellStar Health Care Systems, among others. In 1996, he earned his Ph.D. from the University of Memphis and is currently a tenured Full Professor at Kennesaw State University. Dr. Loe is the Director of the Center for Professional Selling, Executive Director and founder of the National Collegiate Sales Competition and is on the Board of Directors for PlayPro Media, an Entertainment and Promotions Marketing company.  Terry is also on the Editorial Review Boards for several international academic journals.  

Terry has published more than 40 research articles in numerous national and international academic conferences and academic journals and also authored The Instructor’s Role-Play Guide used by sales faculty and instructors around the country.  His research has won several awards including the “Journal of Business Ethics Citation Classics” award for publishing one of the top 12 cited articles in the JOBE over 30 years and over 100 volumes, as well as other awards.

Dr. Loe is quoted in numerous regional, national, and international newspapers and trade journals and spoken on sales, sales ethics and sales management topics to organizations and conferences around the United States and globally.  Terry is the Founder and Executive Director of the National Collegiate Sales Competition, the oldest and largest university sales role-play competition in the world that includes the top university sales programs in the country, and has included universities from Mexico, Canada, Belgium and other European countries. The NCSC has contributed more than $5 million to university sales programs and sales education. Terry has also been recognized by the American Marketing Association for his contribution to the sales discipline and sales education for his development of the National Collegiate Sales Competition. He has consulted numerous universities in the U.S. and abroad in developing sales education programs, curriculum and sales role-play competitions and is past President of the University Sales Center Alliance (USCA), a consortium of the top U.S. University Sales Centers that assists in mentoring developing sales centers and sales faculty in the U.S. and abroad. He is also on the board of directors for PlayPro Media, a millennial marketing and promotions company.

Dr. Loe and his wife, Robin, have been happily married for over 29 years and have two children, Rachel (25) and Nathan (23). Terry and Robin are members of Cedarcrest Church.

Terry was an All-SEC catcher and team co-captain at Mississippi State University and participated in the College World Series in Omaha, NE in 1979 and in 1981. Miss State finished 5th in the country both years.

Robin is a Family Practice physician in the greater Atlanta area and rated one of the top family practice physicians in patient satisfaction in the country for the past 10 years. Rachel is a graduate of the University of Alabama and currently a salesperson with the international logistics company, DHL, in Charlotte, NC.  Nathan is a recent graduate of the University of Mississippi, an entrepreneur and professional weight lifter with California Strength in San Ramone, CA.

 

 

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Veterans Connect Radio Episode 011

Veterans Connect Radio

A spotlight episode of Atlanta Business Radio and powered by Business RadioX. Co-Hosted by Ryan “Redhawk” McPherson and Brandon Skolnick with Gathering Of Angels. Featuring veteran entrepreneurs, support organizations, outreach groups and more in the Atlanta area continuing to serve our families, our communities and our country. 

#VetsConnect
@VetConnectRadio

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Kyle Norton, Brandon Skolnick and John Belman

 

 

Kyle Norton / Materiall
CEO

Kyle Norton is Co-Founder and CEO of Materiall in Atlanta, GA. Materiall is a new visual discovery and recommendation engine, making it easier to find products where looks are a first consideration.  

Prior to founding Materiall, Kyle was a Junior Partner at McKinsey and Company (a global management consulting Firm). As a core leader in McKinsey’s North American operations practice, Kyle lead transformation efforts for multiple Fortune 500 clients, generating in excess of $1B in financial impact for those organizations. Kyle also previously served as a Captain in the United States Army, serving 24 total months in Baghdad, Iraq as part of Operation Iraqi Freedom.

Kyle holds a MBA in Management and Finance from The Wharton School, University of Pennsylvania and a BS in Management and Systems Engineering from the United States Military Academy at West Point, NY.

LinkedIn      Twitter     kyle@materiall.com

 

 

John Belman / Vistage International
Group Chair

John has broad leadership experience across a range of industries, companies (public, private, family-owned), and functional roles. Most recently he served as a CEO of a mid-market logistics company following 7 years at Target Corporation as a leader in transportation and finance. Prior to Target, John held senior business development and marketing roles in the media and technology industries.

John received his BA from Washington University in St. Louis, was a graduate fellow in history at Columbia University, and holds an MBA from the Ross School of Business at the University of Michigan.

A veteran of the 75th Ranger Regiment, John participated in the 1993 “Black Hawk Down” mission in Mogadishu, Somalia.

LinkedIn     Twitter      john.belman@vistagechair.com

 

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Chris and Jessica Simms with High Five Filter Company

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Jessica Simms / High Five Filter Company 
F
ounder

1998 DePaul University Grad- Journalism degree
Background in pharma/medical device sales as well as sales training for managed care health plan (BCBS of AL) started High Five Filter Co with Chris Jan 1.  We sell air filters to commercial business (HVAC companies, property managers, Paint Booth operations).  5% of our profits go towards veteran out reach programs.

 

 


Chris Simms /
High Five Filter Company
Founder

US Army Green Beret and Ranger that is a combat tested and proven leader. Experienced in multicultural and high-risk environments, risk mitigation, IED/C-IED operations and forensic exploitation, crisis management and training/business development.  Strong acumen track in logistics and operations. A trainer of trainers, a builder of networks, focused on the art of managing people and processes. Entrepreneur and Philanthropist.
 
 
MILITARY PROFESSIONAL EXPERIENCE: 
US Army Sergeant First Class/E-7
Acitve Duty 1999-2002
National Guard 2002-Present
 
Iraq Jan 2015 – August 2015:
•Senior Engineer on Special Forces Operational Detachment Alpha (ODA) 2124.  Advised Coalition and Peshmerga leadership up to the General office level on best practices to mitigate ISIS/ISIL tactics, techniques and procedures.
•Conducted over 30 named, combat operations. 
•Provided strategic planning and execution for all sensitive site and forensic exploitation to US and Peshmerga senior leadership.  
•Joint Training Support for 100+ Peshmerga Officers in IED/C-IED operations. 
•Implemented successful policies and procedures to improve logistical operations, safety and consistency on the battlefield.  
 
Afghanistan October 2012 – March 2013:
•Advised the ANASFQC Commander on how to develop and deploy training tactics for Afghan Special Operation Soldiers.
•Conducted combat operations against Taliban and Al-Quada forces.
•Planned, organized, and executed security details for US and Afghan military leaders.
•Led a cross-functional team of US and Afghan Personnel that used the SEEK II and other exploitation avenues to maintain camp security and validate future Afghan Special Forces and Commando candidates. 
 
Colombia, South America May 2007 –  September 2008:
•Team member of Operation Willing Spirit/Jaque to free American hostages from FARC control.  
•Provided personal security for Colombian Vice President Francisco Santos Calderón and his family.
•Worked at the US Embassy for 2 months as a liaison between military, government and civilian officials. 
•Worked with and Trained Colombian National Police and Lancero (Colombian Rangers) soldiers in security, mobility, Counter mobility and demolition operations.
 
Iraq Invasion March – June 2003:
•Southwest Asia Operation Iraqi Freedom. 
•Personal security detail to Defense Intelligence Agency officials.
•Conducted sensitive site exploitation (SSE) in search of chemical munitions and weapons of mass destruction.
 
 
Other Military Schools and Awards:
 
•Exploitation Analysis Organic managers course
•Combat Infantry Badge (CIB)
•Special Forces Qualification Course (18C)
•Ranger
•Jumpmaster
•Special Forces Advanced Urban Combat Instructor
•Survival Escape Resistance Evade (S.E.R.E. ) Level C Instructor
•Gryphon Group Mobile Force Protection
•Federal Law Enforcement Training Center (FLETC) 
 
 
 
CIVILIAN PROFESSIONAL EXPERIENCE:
 
Co-Owner/Operator CrossFit East Cobb, LLC May 2009-Present:  
Affiliate opportunity to support personal beliefs in physical fitness and take advantage of a niche market trend early in its lifecycle.
•Standardized and managed staff, program, and membership development.
•Coach members, troubleshoot and put a plan together to motivate member success. 
•Build local network of supporting businesses, including Reebok.
•Financials, marketing, and construction.  
•Consistent 25% annual business growth.
 
 
 
 
 
United States Training Center, (Formally Blackwater Worldwide June 2009-March 2010): 
Responsible for selection, assessment, integration and training of Afghanistan National Policeman (ANP). 
•Leadership development and advanced field training with Small Units.  Training focused on Small Unit Tactics, Marksmanship, Medical, Search and Seizure, and Vehicle Check Points.  
•Advised and assisted the Afghanistan Border Police Commanders on mission essential tasks including operational tactics, techniques, and procedures regarding the safest and most efficient way to successfully employ men in the battlefield.   
•Conducted site surveys of, and personal security to proposed sights in order to expand the operational capability of the Afghan National Police in depth.
 
Lead Instructor, Tate Incorporated December 2006-September 2008: 
•Worked in a blended team of both military and civilian team members teaching, implementing and instructing survival and evasion tactics.
•Designed and implemented the Survival Escape Resistance and Evasion (S.E.R.E.) level C course at Fort Rucker, Alabama. 
•Taught Evasion tactics, firearms marksmanship, crisis action planning and basic/advanced survival skills to US Army Green Berets, Rangers and Aviators.
 
 
NON PROFIT EXPERIENCE:
 
Founder/Director, Fitness Fueling Awareness (FFA) June 2013 – Present 
•FFA is a fundraising organization to encourage athlete participation in local community causes. 
•To date FFA has donated more than $50,000 to Cystic Fibrosis (Emory Research Center), Lift Up for Autism, and the Special.

 

The Episode is Sponsored in Part By:

Business Writers Conference 2016
www.business-writers-exchange.com

July 27-29 • Brasstown Valley Resort & Spa

Young Harris, GA

USE PROMO CODE “BWC 20” 


2016-Business-Writers-Conference

 

Veterans Connect Radio Episode 010

Veterans Connect Radio

A spotlight episode of Atlanta Business Radio and powered by Business RadioX. Co-Hosted by Ryan “Redhawk” McPherson and Brandon Skolnick with Gathering Of Angels. Featuring veteran entrepreneurs, support organizations, outreach groups and more in the Atlanta area continuing to serve our families, our communities and our country. 

#VetsConnect
@VetConnectRadio

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Scott Bock / Instant Imprints 

Scott Bock is the Area Franchisee for Instant Imprints of Georgia and North Florida. In this role, he identifies qualified individuals who wish to become independent business owners in the Instant Imprints system.  He then provides ongoing business coaching and consulting to help them reach and exceed their business goals. Scott also owns and operates his own center, Instant Imprints of Smyrna, GA

After receiving a Bachelor of Science degree in electrical engineering from Iowa State University, Scott served as a United States Navy Submarine Officer from 1988-1995. He subsequently earned an Master of Business Administration from Duke University.

 

 

Alan Urech / Stoney River Capital LLC
Managing Partner
LINK TO FULL BIO HERE

 

 

 

Andy Wickman is one of the founding members of Warrior Outdoors. He has owned and operated several business’, including a transmission shop, a full motorcycle shop and a dating service. Andy has always had a service heart. He has worked with Habitat for Humanity, the Lions Club and is very accomplished in the Masonic fraternity.

 

Andrew Hurst– 12 year army veteran, served in both Iraq and Afghanistan, father, husband, and avid outdoorsman when at all possible. He got into helping other veterans with the VFW and found that Warrior Outdoors would allow him the ability to help even more by taking the State Director position.

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