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

Neal Loidolt is a distinguished executive and military leader with a proven track record in nonprofit management, strategic operations, and veteran advocacy. As President and CEO of the Minnesota Assistance Council for Veterans (MACV), he has spearheaded efforts to significantly reduce veteran homelessness, expanding the organization’s budget, reach, and impact. A retired Major General in the Minnesota National Guard, Loidolt commanded the 34th Infantry Division, overseeing thousands of soldiers across multiple states and leading critical military and humanitarian missions. With a background in law and executive education from Harvard, he brings a strategic, results-driven approach to leadership, governance, and resource management. His career reflects a steadfast commitment to service, transformation, and meaningful change in both military and civilian sectors.

Ike Anyaoku is a results-driven executive specializing in corporate finance, strategy, and technology, with a track record of driving transformative growth through data-driven decision-making and strategic partnerships. With experience spanning AWS, GE Digital, Deloitte, and Berkshire Hathaway, Ike has led high-value deals, optimized capital investments, and developed innovative frameworks that enhance business efficiency and profitability. His expertise in valuation, risk management, and digital transformation enables organizations to navigate complex challenges and unlock new opportunities. A dynamic communicator and trusted advisor to C-suite leaders, Ike seamlessly integrates financial strategy with cutting-edge technology to deliver sustainable, long-term success.

Chris Mertens is an accomplished sales executive and transformative leader with over 30 years of experience driving growth and innovation in the technology and display solutions industries. As Vice President of US Sales, Displays at Samsung Electronics America, he leads sales for cloud software, services, and hardware solutions across key verticals, while overseeing distribution channels for Samsung’s Home Electronics, Mobile, and Display organizations. Under his leadership, Samsung’s B2B display business achieved significant growth, earning him recognition as CRN’s Channel Executive of the Year for three consecutive years. With a proven track record at HP, where he drove $1.6 billion in healthcare revenue, and a passion for mentoring future leaders, Chris is a driving force in the industry known for his strategic vision, operational excellence, and commitment to results.

I’m excited to share my executive biography, detailing my experience in utilities, construction, and manufacturing, as well as my passion for leadership, business development, and strategic growth. With nearly four decades of expertise in market expansion, sales operations, and operational efficiency, I look forward to new opportunities to contribute to boards and organizations looking for strong leadership and industry insight.

James Massa is a dynamic and results-oriented executive with over 20 years of experience leading organizations across various sectors, including technology, biotech, AI, and non-profits. With dual degrees in Business Administration and Computer Science, Massa has successfully driven operational excellence, revenue growth, and market expansion, managing $500M P&Ls and overseeing teams of up to 400 members. His leadership has led to impressive outcomes, including up to 500% revenue increases, cost reductions, and enhanced profitability. A strategic thinker with expertise in AI, machine learning, and data science, Massa excels at navigating regulatory complexities, fostering partnerships, and leading transformative business initiatives that drive long-term success.

Jeff Barela is a seasoned entrepreneurial leader with over 25 years of experience in database marketing, CRM, and SaaS, known for his ability to build, scale, and successfully exit a profitable marketing technology company. With deep expertise in strategic planning, finance, operations, legal, and sales, he takes a pragmatic, results-oriented approach to business growth and innovation. His leadership in AI-driven marketing technology, agile software development, and stakeholder engagement has positioned him as a trusted advisor in the industry. Currently, Jeff is seeking strategic advisory or part-time consulting opportunities where he can leverage his extensive experience to drive impactful results in the marketing technology sector.

Dwayne Murray is a seasoned leader with a distinguished career in military service, higher education, and strategic program development, currently serving as Deputy Director at Syracuse University’s Office of Veteran and Military Affairs. With a deep commitment to empowering military-connected students, faculty, and staff, he leverages his expertise in operational leadership, policy implementation, and program innovation to create impactful initiatives that foster academic and professional success. His extensive experience as a military officer, educator, and strategic planner has positioned him as a key advocate for veterans’ education and workforce integration, ensuring that military-affiliated individuals receive the resources and support needed to thrive. Through his leadership, Murray continues to drive institutional excellence, bridging the gap between military service and higher education with vision, integrity, and an unwavering dedication to service.

Steve Gordon is a seasoned executive, entrepreneur, and innovator with over 40 years of leadership experience across manufacturing, consumer products, scientific instruments, and food & beverage industries. A proven expert in product development, venture capital, mergers & acquisitions, and automation, he has successfully founded, scaled, and exited multiple companies, including leading Intelligent Bio-Systems to a successful acquisition by Qiagen. Currently serving as CEO of Swish Hoop, Steve continues to drive innovation with patented sports technology solutions. With over 50 patents, extensive board experience, and a passion for mentoring and strategic growth, he is actively seeking advisory and board roles where he can apply his expertise to help organizations navigate innovation, commercialization, and market expansion.

Fadi Farha is a visionary leader with over 15 years of experience in business growth, strategic planning, performance marketing, CRM, and international expansion, driving impactful digital transformation in the eCommerce sector. As **Vice President of Growth at SSENSE**, he leads a team of 25 professionals, managing one of Canada’s largest advertising budgets and overseeing 100% of the company’s sales. His expertise in optimizing advertising efficiency, scaling social and influencer marketing, and implementing AI-driven attribution models has significantly improved customer acquisition and revenue growth. A trusted advisor to the **CEO of Adeptmind AI**, Fadi provides strategic insights on SEM and SEO innovations in retail eCommerce. His data-driven approach, combined with strong relationship-building skills, positions him as a key driver of sustainable business success.

Millicent Fortunoff is a distinguished leader in strategic communications, corporate social responsibility (CSR), and social impact, recognized for her ability to integrate ethical business practices with purpose-driven initiatives that enhance corporate reputation and drive meaningful change. With over two decades of experience advising Fortune 500 companies, government agencies, and nonprofit organizations, she has developed and executed high-impact campaigns in ESG, DEI, and crisis management. A former journalist, her expertise in media relations has secured global earned media coverage, amplifying the reach of her clients’ missions. As a Trustee of Union Theological Seminary and an advisor to a 2020 U.S. presidential campaign, she continues to influence corporate and social policy at the highest levels while remaining actively engaged in New York City’s arts and philanthropic communities.

Gary Woodward is an accomplished executive with a proven history of leadership in business operations, professional coaching, and strategic growth. With expertise spanning the building supply industry, leadership training, and organizational management, he has successfully scaled businesses, optimized operations, and mentored professionals throughout his career. As Director of Operations at SLITERS Lumber and Building Supply, he oversees multiple locations, applying his extensive experience in team building, negotiation, and operational efficiency. His tenure as an Independent Certified Coach with The John Maxwell Team highlights his dedication to leadership development, while his role in expanding a family business into a multi-million-dollar enterprise showcases his strategic acumen. Rooted in integrity, strong communication, and a commitment to excellence, Woodward continues to make a lasting impact in every professional endeavor.

David G. Wopschall is a seasoned financial and operational executive with over 25 years of leadership experience in private equity-backed and public companies. As a transformative CFO, he has led over $1 billion in M&A transactions, driving enterprise value and securing high-multiple exits. With expertise spanning high-tech, electronics, satellite communications, SaaS, and manufacturing, he has successfully restructured global organizations, optimized financial operations, and raised over $300 million in capital. A trusted advisor to CEOs and Boards, Wopschall excels in financial strategy, risk management, and operational efficiency. His ability to drive growth, profitability, and corporate transformation has made him a pivotal leader in navigating complex global markets.

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.

Kirk Crenshaw is a seasoned marketing executive, entrepreneur, and growth strategist with a proven track record of driving high-impact demand generation, digital marketing, and go-to-market strategies across enterprise software, cloud technology, and direct-to-consumer industries. Currently serving as the head of growth at Griptape, he specializes in scaling emerging technologies and optimizing marketing operations to maximize revenue and brand awareness. With extensive experience in leadership roles at Traackr, AWS, Appirio, and Sip Tequila, Crenshaw has successfully built and led marketing organizations that have propelled companies from startup to market dominance. A recognized expert in account-based marketing, search marketing, and marketing automation, he is also an active advisor and investor, helping companies refine their strategic direction and accelerate growth. His ability to combine creativity with data-driven decision-making has made him a transformative force in the digital marketing space.

I’m excited to share my professional journey, highlighting my experiences in growth, strategy, and innovation across multiple industries. Throughout my career, I have been passionate about leveraging human insight and technology to drive business transformation, cultivate strategic partnerships, and create meaningful impact. Here is my biography.

Chase is a seasoned healthcare industry leader with over 20 years of experience specializing in ambulatory surgery centers, pain management practices, and corporate healthcare operations. With a strong foundation in contract negotiations and strategic attorney relationships, he has played a key role in optimizing business structures and driving growth for publicly traded healthcare organizations. His expertise extends to consulting, where he provides valuable insights to organizations seeking to enhance their market presence and operational efficiency. As an active participant in private boards, he brings a strategic mindset, a results-driven approach, and a deep understanding of industry dynamics. Committed to excellence and professional integrity, Chase is a trusted advisor and a valuable asset to any leadership team.