Excited to share my professional journey with you! Over the years, I've had the privilege of working on transformative projects and leading innovative companies, from AI platforms to pioneering virtual worlds. My focus has always been on creating value, driving growth, and supporting organizations through turnarounds and new product development. Here is my biography.

I'm excited to share my updated professional biography, which highlights some of the incredible experiences and projects I’ve had the opportunity to lead over the years. From my early work taking STAAR Surgical public to my current role as Managing Director at SyntexNRG, I’ve always measured success by the positive impact we make, not just financial returns. I’m driven by opportunities with high "Impact Quotients"—whether in renewable energy, agriculture, housing, or environmental stewardship—and I look forward to continuing to create meaningful change and sustainable growth. Let’s work together to make a difference!

Dane LaVigne is a seasoned entrepreneur and business leader, blending strategic vision, technological innovation, and operational expertise in the construction and remodeling sectors. As the Owner and Managing Member of Gutters Etcetera LLC and LaVigne Companies LLC since 2019, Dane has cultivated a reputation for delivering exceptional customer experiences and building high-performing teams. His prior experience in the life insurance industry honed his leadership in sales, customer relations, and negotiation, skills that he now leverages to drive growth in the remodeling industry. A hands-on leader, Dane’s approach fosters a culture of respect and accountability, enabling his companies to scale rapidly while maintaining quality and consistency. His marketing acumen, evident in the 60% of his brands ranking in the top three locally, and his development of a proprietary CRM tool have further streamlined operations and boosted efficiency. Beyond his own ventures, Dane consults with other small businesses and plays a pivotal role in forming partnerships with Fortune 500 companies, demonstrating his ability to navigate complex business environments. His leadership, rooted in integrity and innovation, continues to shape industry standards, making him a valuable asset to corporate boards and high-level strategic discussions.

In the world of business, few leaders demonstrate the resilience and strategic vision that Catherine McCann embodies. With over three decades of experience, Catherine has built and grown successful enterprises across diverse industries, from dry cleaning to logistics. As the CEO and Co-Founder of Best Companies, she transformed a single dry cleaning store into a $10 million enterprise, showcasing her exceptional strategic acumen. Her journey is marked by adept navigation through significant challenges, including an 89% revenue drop during the COVID-19 pandemic, which she overcame through innovation and adaptability. Catherine’s extensive knowledge in strategic planning and entrepreneurship, coupled with her ability to inspire high-performing teams, has established her as a respected leader. Her commitment to effective communication and relationship-building has not only driven her businesses to success but also made her a sought-after speaker and mentor in the professional community.

Jon Berens, MS DABR, is a seasoned Medical Physicist and accomplished entrepreneur with over 25 years of expertise in medical radiation physics, radiation safety, and oncology treatment. With advanced degrees in medical radiation physics and health sciences, Jon has led numerous cancer treatment centers, spearheaded complex equipment and facility upgrades, and implemented cutting-edge oncology programs like SBRT and SRS. As a business owner and consultant, he continues to innovate in both clinical and entrepreneurial settings, providing specialized medical physics services and managing multiple business ventures.

Edmundo Gonzalez is a dynamic entrepreneur, executive, and investor with over 20 years of experience in building and scaling technology-enabled companies. Specializing in healthcare services and logistics, he has a proven track record of success in strategic planning, team building, capital raising, and mergers and acquisitions. As the Owner and Manager of Grays West Ventures, Edmundo has led investments in innovative companies like Marpai and Freight Technologies, both of which are now publicly traded on NASDAQ. His leadership in Marpai's AI-driven healthcare solutions and his ability to secure significant returns for shareholders solidify his reputation as a visionary in the tech and venture capital sectors.

I’m thrilled to share my journey and experiences with you. Over the past 30 years, I’ve had the privilege of working across diverse fields, from architectural design and sustainable agriculture to non-profit leadership. Founding ZED1, Inc. and From The Wild, Inc. has allowed me to merge business acumen with a commitment to social impact. My role with the Hudson Valley House of Hope further underscores my dedication to advocating for victims of domestic violence and fostering positive change in media, healthcare, labor, immigration, food security, and racial justice. I’m excited to continue driving innovation and making a difference in every endeavor I undertake.