It’s The Final Countdown… (S23E11)

Alex is a strategic executive with a proven track record for driving operational excellence and profitability. With a seasoned entrepreneurial spirit, Alex produces results by capitalizing on market insights, developing scalable sales and operational processes, and galvanizing teams toward ambitious goals. As a proven product and software leader, Alex specializes in developing scalable products that achieve user desirability and market viability. An accomplished leader, Alex establishes cultures of accountability, transparency, empowerment, and excellence. With a distinguished consulting background, Alex has a history of successful partnerships with tech startups, driving multimillion-dollar revenue increases. Notably, Alex has successfully led two organizations through acquisitions, showcasing exceptional leadership and business acumen.

Andrea Furtick is a multifaceted creative force, renowned as a published author, fine artist, and toy designer. As the CEO of AGC Toys Inc., she pioneers innovative concepts in the realm of toy design, captivating audiences with her distinctive vision and craftsmanship. With a passion for storytelling and divination, Andrea is the creator of the Afro Goddess Divination Collection, a series celebrated for its spiritual depth and artistic beauty. Her work has garnered widespread acclaim, culminating in a contract with U.S. Games Systems Inc. in 2022, a testament to her enduring influence in the industry. In addition to her creative endeavors, Andrea is a dynamic keynote speaker, captivating audiences with her insights on art, spirituality, and entrepreneurship. Her engaging presentations have graced prestigious events such as The International Divination Event 2022 and the Northwestern Tarot Symposium 2022, solidifying her reputation as a thought leader in her field.

Andrea Holmes Thompkins is the CEO of ACE Media Corp (ACE), Andrea’s Communication Empire. Founded in 2002, this broadcast, media sales, branding, and entertainment representation firm specializes in branded-content promotions and the production of interstitial ads for online, television, programs, and featured movies. In January 2020, she launched ACE LAND, a full-service production arm of ACE Media. Andrea holds a B.A. in Communications from Howard University, where she has sponsored scholarships in her late mother's and sister’s names. (victims of cancer) A board member of the MECCA Society, We’ve Got Friends, Teaneck Comes Together, JumpStart Community, Rutgers Business School, Center for Urban Entrepreneurship, and Economic Development Newark Business Hub, she commits her time, energy & resources to several community-based nonprofit organizations.

Bryan Laughery is the founder and current Lead Publicist at ClearCut PR, and he’s using his past experience in communications and entrepreneurship to create more success for other entrepreneurs. Having failed at 7 businesses created the grit, determination, and lessons that allowed for 3 successful exits later in life. But, before all of that, it was a 12 year corporate communications career. “I’ve always wanted to be an entrepreneur to help others, and I knew that the lessons I’d learn from working in large companies would create a better entrepreneur in the long run.” Bryan says. In his personal life, Bryan spends time with his wife and his two sons where they live in New Jersey.

David Brown is the co-founder of Fallen Heroes Tattoo & Piercing, the largest single tattoo studio in the United States, but his story began long before he ever picked up a tattoo machine. A U.S. Army veteran, entrepreneur, husband, father, and adoptive dad, David has spent his life building teams, serving others, and creating opportunities where they didn't exist. Alongside his wife, Brenda, he opened their home to dozens of foster children, eventually adopting many of them while building a family centered on love, stability, and second chances. After years of military service, international security work, and saving every spare dollar they could, David and Brenda took a leap of faith in 2016 and invested everything they had into opening Fallen Heroes Tattoo & Piercing. What started with four stations has grown into a nationally recognized studio with multiple locations, a reputation for artist-first leadership, and more than $1.25 million donated back to first responders, teachers, military members, cancer organizations, and other community causes. David believes great businesses are built by putting people first. His mission has always been to create a place where artists are respected, fairly compensated, and proud to call home. Whether he's mentoring artists, leading a growing team, or giving back to the community, David's work is driven by the same principles that have shaped his life: loyalty, service, hard work, and the belief that everyone deserves the chance to build something extraordinary.

Dr. Chris Croley is an aesthetic physician, national educator, and industry advisor specializing in injectables, skin treatments, and complication management. With a background in anesthesiology and critical care medicine, Dr. Croley brings a strong emphasis on patient safety, risk awareness, and informed decision-making to aesthetic treatments. He is known for translating complex medical topics into clear, practical insights for patients and audiences, making him a trusted voice for media, conferences, and industry discussions. In addition to clinical work, Dr. Croley serves as Chief Medical Officer at Empire Medical Training and Chief Medical Advisor at MedResults, where he contributes to training, product strategy, and clinical adoption.

Dr. Kristen Eccleston helps high-performers and complex learners stop spiraling and start thriving. Her approach: neuroscience that works in real time, delivered with soul. She is a Cognitive Performance Specialist, keynote speaker, and author of THE PERSPECTIVE PIVOT: The 3-Second Solution to Stop Spiraling and Start Thriving. The book is built on one idea: there is a three-second window between a trigger and a spiral. Catch it, and you can change everything. The manuscript is complete and seeking literary representation. Dr. Kristen holds a doctorate in Mind, Brain, and Teaching from Johns Hopkins University and brings more than 20 years of experience in cognitive performance and neurodivergent education. She is neurodivergent herself and built her frameworks because the standard advice never worked for her. She designed a district-wide mental health program that has saved $4-6 million annually and is now in its eleventh year. She has trained leaders at Fortune 500 companies, the CIA, the FAA, and universities nationwide. As Director of Social-Emotional Services at Weinfeld Education Group, she leads education consulting and advocacy for twice-exceptional and complex learners. Through The NeuroDiverse Teacher, she supports schools and families navigating neurodivergent student needs. Through CreativeTHRIVE, she coaches high-achieving adults and young adults ready to thrive.

For 20 years, Heidi Luerra has built, bootstrapped, and founded businesses in creative industries such as the arts, entertainment, fashion, and technology. With a strong and innate entrepreneurial spirit, Heidi started her first business when she was only 11 years old and has since built and sustained a global multi-million dollar enterprise, wrote and published her own book, and worked with thousands of creative companies throughout her career to date. With a deep respect for the underdog, her businesses have largely been built on the notion that entrepreneurs and creators deserve to be seen and heard. By harnessing technology, and unorthodox creative problem-solving she’s managed to disrupt industries, democratize communities, and build platforms that clear space to incubate this personal mission.

Jordan Daniel Bell is a sought-after advisor, consultant, speaker, educator, and expert contributor in the areas of digital marketing, technology, automation, and startup management. Jordan is the CEO of Agency Bell, a Digital Advertising Agency that leverages Machine Learning to build competitive advantages for high-budget digital brands. He has founded and launched several successful companies, consulted or advised startups in numerous industries, and has managed hundreds of millions of dollars in digital campaigns for Fortune level companies. Jordan was featured as an Executive Coach on Seasons 4 and 11 of "The Blox" (a Reality Competition for Entrepreneurs). Jordan is an expert on advertising, digital agencies, automation, and entrepreneurship. He is a proud husband, father, and an avid musician.