Guiding Startup Triumph: The Vital Role of Independent Advisors and Platforms in Achieving Success

Deborah Kidd is a dynamic executive, attorney, and educator with expertise spanning the entertainment, music business, media production, and legal industries. As CEO of PopDaze Entertainment, she leads strategic growth initiatives while preserving the cultural legacy of past decades through immersive music experiences. With a background in entertainment law, she has represented artists, advised on intellectual property and business strategies, and played a key role in shaping legal frameworks for the industry. As an Associate Professor at Berklee College of Music, she mentors future leaders, equipping them with essential knowledge in music law and business. Her diverse career also includes media production, artist management, and corporate leadership, making her an influential figure in the evolving entertainment landscape.

Adam Rynd is a seasoned business leader, entrepreneur, and investor with a proven track record of success across real estate, retail, technology, and finance. As the Owner and Designated Broker of Coldwell Banker Cascade Real Estate, he has built the firm into the premier brokerage in Central Washington, overseeing more than $300 million in annual transactions. In addition, he leads WOODIN ENTERPRISES LLC, a thriving retail business portfolio that has achieved consistent 35%+ annual revenue growth. With prior leadership roles at Salesforce and Microsoft, Adam has extensive experience in sales, contract negotiation, marketing strategy, and operational management. His ability to develop and execute strategic initiatives, combined with his commitment to innovation and community impact, has made him a driving force in every industry he operates in.

Ric Czarnecki is a seasoned manufacturing executive and entrepreneur with a strong background in precision machining, operational leadership, and business development. As the Owner and President of Clearshot Manufacturing LLC, he has built a veteran-owned, AS9100-certified company specializing in Swiss-style machined components for industries such as aerospace, defense, medical, and firearms. With an MBA in business management and a degree in mechanical engineering, Ric has held key leadership roles across multiple manufacturing firms, optimizing operations and driving growth. His experience as a U.S. Marine instilled in him the discipline, adaptability, and strategic mindset that have defined his career, enabling him to lead high-performing teams and deliver superior products with precision and reliability.

L. Antoinette Ward is a visionary marketing executive with nearly two decades of experience driving revenue growth, digital transformation, and brand engagement across B2B and B2C industries. As Vice President of Marketing at Hibu, she has generated over $1 million in annual revenue through innovative lead generation strategies while optimizing prospect segmentation and digital engagement. A strategic leader with expertise in content marketing, automation, and analytics, she has successfully enhanced brand reputation, increased conversion rates, and developed impactful sales support tools. Beyond marketing, she is a dedicated advocate for diversity, equity, and inclusion, pioneering corporate initiatives that foster a culture of belonging. With an Executive MBA from The Pennsylvania State University, Ms. Ward continues to lead with insight, innovation, and a results-driven approach to business success.

Shanna Weber is a dynamic executive coach, leadership strategist, and financial services expert with a proven ability to transform teams, drive strategic growth, and cultivate high-performance cultures. As the Founder and CEO of Prima Consulting, she empowers leaders to elevate their impact through executive coaching, leadership development programs, and culture-building initiatives. With over 23 years of experience in financial services, including leadership roles at Charles Schwab and Janus Henderson Investors, Shanna has led large-scale business transformations, spearheaded diversity and inclusion initiatives, and developed enterprise-wide strategies that drive measurable success. A sought-after speaker and mentor, she is dedicated to helping professionals unlock their leadership potential and create workplaces where employees thrive.

Christopher Harrington is a seasoned sales and marketing executive with over 20 years of experience in the consumer packaged goods (CPG) industry. A results-driven leader, he has successfully led go-to-market strategies, optimized category management, and driven revenue growth across North America and international markets, including Mexico, China, and the European Union. With expertise in strategic planning, sales leadership, and operational efficiency, Chris has played a pivotal role in scaling businesses, leading high-performing teams, and executing transformational initiatives. Passionate about accountability, mentorship, and community engagement, he is now seeking board and advisory roles where he can leverage his extensive experience to help companies navigate market complexities and drive sustainable growth.

Rodney Murrell is a dynamic business leader with over 20 years of experience in sales leadership, strategic business development, and workforce solutions. As Division Vice President of Sales at Asure Software, he has played a key role in expanding market reach and fostering long-term client relationships across the United States and the United Kingdom. His expertise in aligning people, technology, and business objectives has consistently driven operational efficiency and revenue growth. With a proven track record at industry-leading organizations such as FM:Systems, SuccessFactors, ADP, and Ceridian, Rodney is recognized for his ability to deliver innovative solutions and build high-performing teams. Beyond his corporate achievements, he is committed to mentorship and leadership development, demonstrating his dedication to empowering individuals and organizations to achieve their goals.

Joseph Janeczek, PE, ARM, is a seasoned executive with 35 years of expertise in environmental compliance, risk management, sustainability, and corporate governance. Throughout his career at industry leaders such as Johnson Controls, The Walt Disney Company, and BASF, he has successfully led large-scale acquisitions, risk mitigation strategies, and sustainability programs, overseeing environmental policies for global operations. With an extensive background in due diligence, insurance oversight, and corporate governance, Joseph brings a strategic approach to aligning business objectives with regulatory and environmental best practices. His ability to navigate complex compliance landscapes, foster cross-functional collaboration, and implement long-term risk mitigation solutions makes him a valuable asset to organizations seeking strong leadership in governance, sustainability, and operational efficiency. Now actively pursuing board and advisory roles, he is eager to leverage his expertise to drive meaningful impact and corporate resilience.

Eric Trac is a visionary healthcare investor and biopharmaceutical strategist with a unique blend of medical expertise and financial acumen, driving transformative growth in the healthcare sector. As a Senior Analyst & Director at Sarissa Capital Management, he leads activist investment strategies, evaluates public and private market opportunities, and serves as a board director at Lyndra Therapeutics. With a background in venture capital at Vida Ventures and Vivo Capital, he has played a pivotal role in high-impact transactions, including Bayer’s $4 billion acquisition of AskBio and Centessa Pharmaceuticals’ $250 million Series A. Trac’s deep scientific foundation stems from his MD and MBA from Stanford University and his research in biotechnology at MIT, where he graduated in the top 8% of his class. Recognized as one of *Business Insider’s* “14 Most Impressive Students at MIT,” he continues to leverage his expertise in medicine and finance to drive innovation, maximize shareholder value, and advance the future of biopharmaceuticals.

Talbot Stark leverages his extensive executive leadership experience in Fortune 500 companies and startups to provide strategic insights, drive innovation, and deliver high-value contributions as a Board Member and executive coach. With a proven track record in global markets, institutional sales, and leadership development, he has successfully guided top executives across industries, equipping them with the skills and strategies needed for long-term success. As the Founder and CEO of **ExecPathfinders LLC**, Talbot combines his deep expertise in financial strategy, corporate governance, and executive coaching to foster growth, enhance leadership effectiveness, and empower organizations to navigate complex business landscapes.

Josh D. Coleman is a seasoned executive with 40 years of leadership experience in energy, manufacturing, and operational efficiency. As co-founder and partner of L5E, LLC, he played a key role in scaling the company from a small startup to a thriving energy advisory firm serving over 4,000 clients across North America. With a deep understanding of deregulated energy markets, risk management, and strategic procurement, Josh has consistently delivered multi-million-dollar cost savings and efficiency improvements. His expertise spans business growth, team leadership, and international market expansion, making him a sought-after advisor and board member. A strong communicator and industry speaker, Josh is dedicated to helping organizations navigate complex challenges while driving sustainable and profitable outcomes.

Todd Oseth is an accomplished C-level executive with over 20 years of experience driving growth, innovation, and operational excellence across industries such as semiconductors, SaaS, IoT, and enterprise storage. With a track record of launching new products that increased revenues by 30% and profits by 15%, he has led organizations ranging from startups to billion-dollar enterprises, managing teams of up to 2,000 people. Oseth has closed high-profile deals exceeding $100 million, including with global leaders, and has successfully implemented cutting-edge technologies like AI and blockchain to drive business transformation. As a visionary leader with a strong background in engineering, sales, and marketing, he brings deep industry expertise and a passion for innovation, guiding companies through rapid change, market expansion, and sustainable growth.

Sean Macmillan is a distinguished leader in luxury retail development, currently serving as the **Senior Vice President of Real Estate, Store Design & Construction** at **David Yurman**. With over **20 years of experience**, he has played a pivotal role in shaping the retail presence of renowned global brands through strategic expansion, innovative store design, and meticulous construction execution. His expertise lies in blending aesthetics, functionality, and brand identity to create immersive retail experiences that drive customer engagement and business growth. Having held leadership positions at **Harry Winston, Aesop, and Estée Lauder**, Sean has a proven track record of delivering high-profile projects that uphold the highest standards of craftsmanship and operational efficiency. A collaborative and results-driven executive, he continues to push the boundaries of retail excellence, ensuring that every store reflects the artistry and heritage of the brand while embracing modern and sustainable design principles.

Sam Byrd is a results-driven executive with over 15 years of experience leading complex operations, optimizing business performance, and driving strategic growth through data-driven decision-making. With expertise in Lean Six Sigma methodologies and a strong engineering and analytical mindset, he has successfully led large-scale teams, improved operational efficiencies, and delivered measurable financial outcomes across multiple industries. Currently serving as Regional President at Sodexo, he oversees a $622 million managed volume, leading initiatives that enhance employee satisfaction, streamline processes, and maximize client value. Throughout his career, Byrd has demonstrated a proven ability to transform underperforming operations, implement innovative strategies, and foster a culture of excellence that drives long-term business success.

Transitioning from a founder to an executive within a larger corporate structure is a journey of transformation, requiring a shift from hands-on leadership to a broader strategic approach. Michael Beuchat’s evolution from leading MDB Enterprises, Inc. to a senior executive role at Sonny’s Enterprises Inc. highlights the importance of adaptability, collaboration, and long-term vision. While entrepreneurship fosters agility and rapid decision-making, corporate leadership demands alignment with governance structures, empowering teams, and leveraging scale for greater industry impact. Through this transition, Beuchat underscores the power of vision, customer-centric strategies, and the ability to inspire others—ensuring leadership is not just about change but about growth and influence at a higher level.

Parker Laville is a highly accomplished corporate and investment banking executive with over 37 years of experience in capital markets, structured finance, and lending. Throughout his career, he has successfully led teams, managed multi-billion-dollar portfolios, and provided strategic financial solutions across industries including energy, oil and gas, renewable energy, and corporate finance. Currently serving as managing director at Impact Strategic Funding, Parker specializes in debt financing for lower middle-market companies, leveraging his deep expertise in risk management, financial structuring, and client relationship development. A dedicated leader with international experience, he has worked with top global financial institutions and served on advisory boards, bringing a wealth of knowledge to governance and strategic decision-making. Now transitioning into board service, Parker is committed to using his extensive expertise to guide organizations in achieving financial stability, sustainable growth, and long-term success.