Creators and Guests

Deborah has influenced and directed strategic and owner-operator mergers and acquisitions in many different fields. She believes strongly that assisting a business to grow and develop strong practices is the best way to create a company that is poised for exit planning or gaining an equity growth partner.

In 1997, Robert G. Brody founded Brody and Associates, LLC, a Labor, Employment, and Benefits Law firm which represents management and senior executives. Before founding Brody and Associates, Bob was a Managing Partner for Jackson Lewis, one of the largest Management Labor and Employment law firms in the United States. Bob is a trusted legal advisor to businesses and senior executives who need counsel on all issues involving personnel. Bob was born in New York, New York. He graduated Magna Cum Laude with Honors in Economics from Kenyon College in Ohio. Bob then went on to graduate from Vanderbilt University School of Law in Nashville, Tennessee. He is licensed to practice law in Connecticut, New York, Michigan, Illinois, and the Mashantucket Pequot Tribe, as well as admitted to nine United States District and Circuit Courts of Appeal. Bob has been in private practice for more than 30 years. He has represented businesses across the United States. He works in all industries and with companies that are leaders in their own industry, as well as with developing companies. As a counselor, he aggressively solves client personnel issues using common sense and thirty years of experience. As new laws emerge, Brody and Associates uses courage and experience to anticipate what these laws mean and what steps are needed to maintain compliance. Every month Brody and Associates share these insights among clients and friends with its legal monthly updates. When counsel isn’t enough, Bob has represented clients across the country before Civil Rights agencies, Wage and Hour tribunals, State Attorneys General offices, many State Departments of Labor, and of course State and Federal courts.

Brad Malicki is a transactional attorney focusing on commercial and residential real estate, business, and corporate matters. Brad represents individuals, businesses, and lending institutions in all aspects of real estate purchase, sale, and financing transactions. He embraces the philosophy that “no matter is too big or too small” for him to handle and treats each transaction with the vigor and enthusiasm his clients have grown to expect. In addition, throughout his years in practice, Brad has developed an extensive network of professionals that can assist when needed to ensure the transaction closes, even under the toughest of circumstances. Brad also represents a multitude of business clients; both large, established companies as well as “start-ups” looking to fulfill their entrepreneurial spirit. As part of his business and corporate practice, Brad has extensive experience representing clients purchasing and selling businesses in both stock and asset sale transactions. Brad believes that regardless of the size, each transaction has unique features that require not only a skilled attorney in this discipline, but also an attorney who is willing to work hard and offer creative ideas to overcome the hurdles that arise throughout the transaction. Brad prides himself on that dedication and creativity, thereby bringing his clients to the “finish line” . A staple of Brad’s practice is his representation of businesses involved with liquor. He has successfully guided business owners through the licensing process in matters related to distributing, manufacturing, and selling liquor. Brad regularly represents clients before the Department of Consumer Protection and in matters related to license violations and compliance matters, with the focus on helping the client achieve and maintain compliance, with the least impact on business. Brad is recognized in the 2024 publication of The Best Lawyer s i n Ame rica ® in the area of Real Estate Law. He earned his BA from University of Connecticut and his JD from Western New England University School of Law. He is admitted to practice law in the State of Connecticut and the US Tax Court. ha

Carlos Salmon brings an extensive background in comprehensive wealth coordination and financial planning. He provides his clients with strategic, forward- thinking financial plans encompassing wealth accumulation, preservation, and intergenerational wealth transfer, helping ensure financial well-being and a lasting legacy. As a Certified Exit Planner (CExP), Carlos is known for his passion for guiding business owners through one of the most critical financial events of their lives: exiting their business.

At the end of 2013 David founded DirectLine Media, a video production company that specializes in creating memorable and compelling video content for businesses. Admired for his unique and creative visual story telling, David continues to work with small to large businesses and nonprofit organizations.

Dave has more than 40 years of diverse business and finance experience. Dave has experience in manufacturing and distribution organizations in various industries including Food and Consumer Packaging, Med Device and Consumer Products. Dave has served in several senior financial management roles with companies like, Ahlstrom Inc., Assa Abloy, Acme Monaco Inc, Black and Decker, Laticrete International Inc and Henkel Corp. He has worked in Public, Family Owned and Private Equity owned organizations. He has participated in both start up and turnaround business opportunities and has 10+ years' experience leading organizations as either their President or General Manager. Dave received his BS from Bentley University in Boston and his MBA from Rensselaer Polytechnic Institute. He has served on BOD's and Corporate and Business Committee's. Other interests include Vacations with family and friends and playing Golf. What attracted you to FocusCFO? Over the course of my career to date, I have been exposed to a wide variety of business-related experiences. Some were good and some were bad, but a lot of the time I went through it alone. I want to be a resource to those who are now coming after me. To help their learning curve not be so steep. To be the sounding board that I wish I had at different times over the years.

Jason is a Principal in CLA’s Private Equity industry group and joined CLA in 2021. Jason has significant experience in both assurance and consulting, which includes working with a wide range of closely held companies in many industries. He provides buy-side quality of earnings and post-deal support to private equity, family offices, strategic buyers, and search funds. He also provides sell-side quality of earnings and assistance services to privately held middle market companies working with an investment bank or broker to enhance their value. Jason has more than 12 years of experience on transactions (and more than 15 years of overall experience) involving middle-market companies in industries such as manufacturing and distribution, healthcare, technology, professional services, construction, transportation/logistics and other B2B businesses.

Jeff Rich has 25 years’ experience in buying and selling companies both nationally and internationally. His clients include founders, family businesses, private equity groups, family offices, venture capital firms and corporations Jeff loves to help company owners navigate the challenges of selling their companies and get them to the finish line. Jeff is himself a business owner, having founded or acquired several companies. Prior to Touchstone, he worked as a proprietary equity trader, owned a large stake in a publicly traded uranium company, and provided insurance solutions to many of the world’s largest law firms. When he is not serving clients, you might find Jeff in his church, backpacking with his six children in the mountains of Colorado or relaxing with his wife on a beach in Mexico.

Jenny Lezon Norris serves as Market Growth Director, North America, for Navigator Global, a human-led online platform that supports companies in expanding internationally. She holds a Bachelor of Science in Finance from the University of Connecticut and an MBA from Rensselaer Polytechnic Institute,  and brings more than thirty years of experience in international trade and cross-border finance.  In addition to her current role, Jenny maintains over a decade of experience as a licensed insurance broker and agent specializing in trade credit insurance. She has worked as a broker with Meridian Finance Group and as an agent with Allianz, advising companies on risk mitigation strategies that support international growth.  Earlier in her career, Jenny spent seventeen years at UPS Capital Business Credit, where she led business development for cross-border equipment finance programs supporting U.S. exporters operating in Mexico, Brazil, Colombia, and Turkey. She began her international business career in the International Contracts Department at Gerber Garment Technology.   Jenny has contributed to industry leadership through her service on the Export-Import Bank of the United States (EXIM) C4 Subcommittee and the Broker Advisory Council. She recently served as President of the Connecticut Turnaround Management Association (CT TMA) and remains an active member; she is  also a current member of the Connecticut District Export Council.  Jenny has traveled extensively in support of international business initiatives and is conversant in Polish and Spanish. Contact: Jenny.Norris@Navigator.Global Cell:  860.808.8400 LinkedIn: Jenny Lezon Norris | LinkedIn Company:  Exporting Made Simple and Faster | Navigator Global US

John is Founder and Managing Partner of Cornell Global LLC, a Human Capital Strategy Consulting firm. Working with various sized companies across various industry sectors, John strives to drive company valuation through innovative human capital strategies. John develops and installs the structure and tools needed to manage talent, helps mold managers into leaders, and finds the talent needed to fill in the blanks. John’s corporate career included progressively responsible positions with Price Waterhouse, Bankers Trust, E. F. Hutton, Chemical Bank and later G.E. Capital. Since leaving corporate, John has founded three management and career coaching consulting firms, Cornell Global LLC, Pierway Associates LLC and Heroes in Transition. In addition to the above, John served as Chairman of XPX TriState (XPX) and previously President of the Fairfield Chapter of XPX. XPX is a nonprofit association of diverse professional advisors collaborating to help their private company clients build business value, transfer ownership and create a legacy of success in their lives and their communities. He also served on the Board of the Circle of Care, a not for profit that provides support to families with children who have cancer and is the past President of the Southern Connecticut Chapter of the Association for Talent Development (ATD). John attained his Master’s Degree from Boston University and a Bachelors Degree from Westminster College.

Joseph Jaffe is a Professional Implementer and Executive Leadership Coach for EOS – the Entrepreneurial Operating System. He works with high-aspiring entrepreneurs and their leadership teams to clarify and align vision, instill discipline and accountability, and promote team health and trust. In addition to being a 6-time author (his latest book is called Forever Changed) and keynote speaker in over 50 countries, he is also host of two business talk shows: Joseph Jaffe is not Famous and The Entrepreneur’s Journey. Jaffe is @jaffejuice on all the major socials. For all links, please visit https://linktr.ee/jaffejuice or www.eosworldwide.com/joseph-jaffe

Coach Juli Shulem, M.S., PCC, CPC is a Productivity Coach and Industrial-Organizational Psychologist who helps professionals master organization, productivity, and follow-through. Her work focuses on reducing overwhelm and frustration while improving efficiency, decision-making, and sustainable performance—particularly for individuals navigating executive functioning challenges, especially ADHD and AuDHD. Juli works with a global clientele of entrepreneurs, solopreneurs, and corporate leaders, including those in Fortune 100 and 500 companies. Through one-on-one coaching and organizational presentations, she empowers clients to create structure, develop practical systems, and implement both life and strategic business skills that support long-term success. Her areas of expertise include time and task management, prioritization, leadership strategies, communication, and navigating complex professional demands. An accomplished coach, Juli has spoken on numerous stages, has written books, blogs, and regular columns on productivity and has contributed to both print and online publications. She has held leadership roles within professional organizations, including serving as Vice President of ICF Georgia (2024–2025). Juli is a member of the International Coaching Federation (ICF), was a Golden Circle member of NAPO, and a long-time member of the ADHD Coaches Organization (ACO).

Michael, Partner at Wiggin and Dana, is Chair of the firm’s Private Client Services Department, leading a team of more than 30 lawyers and allied professionals. He advises clients on estate planning, trust and estate administration, probate litigation, and business succession planning, combining legal expertise with a counselor’s understanding of family dynamics. Known for his empathy and good humor, Michael helps clients make sound decisions and hopefully resolve disputes before litigation arises. His practice includes tax-efficient estate and gift planning, trust and estate administration, and business succession planning, including entity formation, shareholder and buy-sell agreements, and facilitating business transfers. A Fellow of the American College of Trust and Estate Counsel, Michael frequently speaks on trust and estate strategies and is active in professional organizations, including the Connecticut Bar Association and the Exit Planning Exchange (CT XPX). He earned his J.D. magna cum laude from Quinnipiac University School of Law, where he was Executive Managing Editor of the Quinnipiac Probate Law Journal, and holds a B.A. in political science from the University of Richmond and an M.Ed. from the University of Maryland. A former Division I baseball player, he lives in Fairfield, Connecticut with his wife, Melissa, and their three children, and remains active in local youth sports.

With over two decades of experience in small business lending, Michelle Orr joined the Live Oak team in 2021 as Vice President of General Lending. She brings extensive knowledge and expertise from her previous position with one of the nation's leading SBA lenders. Throughout her career spanning more than 20 years, Michelle has successfully originated and closed numerous SBA 7(a) and 504 loans, with a focus on commercial real estate, business acquisitions, partner buyouts, expansion, and new construction. She is dedicated to providing an exceptional lending experience for her clients and is committed to being a dependable guide throughout the entire process. Michelle earned an associate degree in Marketing from Johnson & Wales University. She resides in Connecticut with her husband and daughter and serves clients across the Connecticut/New York region, with the capability to fund loans nationally. In addition, Michelle is an active member of Exit Planning Exchange (XPX) CT Chapter and serves on the membership committee. She is also a sponsor for SIOR Western MA/CT Chapter.

Rick's journey began in broadcast video graphics, which paved the way for his transition into web design and development. His impressive portfolio includes projects with The Christian Broadcasting Network, Inc., Regent University, Operation Blessing, and various web technology companies like CMGI, Auto mark, Boat Ventures, Channel Blade, and Reynolds & Reynolds. Honing his creative skills under the mentorship of agency creative directors with backgrounds in BBDO, J. Walter Thompson, Leo Burnett, and Ogilvy & Mather, Rick brings a wealth of advertising and design knowledge to VISIONEFX.  

Mr. Glassman is an attorney with more than 35 years of experience in the law, banking and management. After a 25+ year career in commercial and investment banking and a family-owned business, Mr. Glassman returned to the practice of law focusing on the implementation and management of Employee Stock Ownership Plans (ESOPs). Mr. Glassman is a founding partner of ESOP Plus LLP, and he is also EVP of Grandview Capital Strategies, a company providing fiduciary services to ESOP-owned companies. Mr. Glassman is a member of The ESOP Association and the NCEO. He is a board member or an advisory board member of a number of ESOP-owned companies and he is on the faculty of the International Exit Planning Association teaching the ESOP curriculum. Mr. Glassman works with corporations, directors, management, stockholders and ERISA fiduciaries in connection with the design, creation and management of ESOPs, equity-based compensation plans and matters relating to corporate finance, corporate governance and ERISA.

Scott Loring is a Mediator, Negotiation Consultant, and Conflict Coach. Since 2000, Scott has brought his communication, conflict resolution, and team-building skills to individuals, families, non-profits, and business teams. Scott has particular expertise assisting client-focused businesses and non-profits, helping stakeholders, employees, volunteers, and staff negotiate internal and external issues such as salary negotiations, business mergers, and the inevitable conflicts that arise between co-workers. Scott was trained by Meditation Works, Inc. (MWI) and Harvard University’s Program on Negotiation (PON). He has worked with clients in his private practice, mediating over 200 disputes. He specializes in resolving Family Business disputes and conflicts between Business Partners. Scott is also a Certified Professional Coactive Coach (CPCC) and a graduate of the country's premier coaching schools, the Coaches Training Institute (CTI) and the Executive Coaching Institute (ECI). He holds a Certificate in Organizational and Relationship System Coaching (ORSC) to better work with teams and relationships in business. Scott’s success as a coach and mediator is based on his ability to help clients achieve clarity through his intuition, deep listening, and a direct, supportive communication style

Sean Healy currently serves as a Vice President of Business Development at Keswick. Sean is responsible for sourcing new investment opportunities, business development, and conducting preliminary financial, operational, and competitive diligence for potential investments. Prior to joining Keswick, Sean was head of origination for a family office, led his own search fund, and also served in various strategy and management consulting-related roles for companies spanning all stages of the business lifecycle from startup to corporate stalwart (Lowe’s and Home Depot, among them). Prior to entering the private sector, Sean served as a Combat Engineer Officer in the US Army. He later served as a Joint Operational Strategist for the Navy and Marine Corps before transitioning into the Reserve Force of the US Army, where he remains a Lieutenant Colonel today.

Known for being determined and focused, Stefania is often the first to memorize lines and dedicates significant effort to each role. She excels in both comedic and dramatic performances, embracing the motto by Mark Twain, "Find a job you enjoy doing, and you will never have to work a day in your life," making every project both a professional commitment and a joy.

Steve is an experienced M&A professional with 15 years as an M&A Advisor and over 20 years in business management and sales leadership. He’s a skilled business development professional with a strong sense of urgency and connection to Business Owners and C-level executives. Prior to his M&A career, Steve was an executive within the Information Technology industry. Steve is the former President of Connecticut Exit Planning Exchange (XPX) a community of trusted advisers to privately-held businesses and Association for Corporate Growth (AGC), a global association of professionals involved in mergers and acquisitions. Being active in these associations allows Steve to share his experiences and ideas with other professionals within the M&A industry. In addition to these professional organizations, Steve is a member of New Haven Manufacturers Association (NHMA) an active association of business owners and advisors. Steve holds a designation as a Mergers and Acquisition Master Intermediary (M&A MI), the professional standard in middle market transactions, and he specializes in manufacturing, distribution, technology and B2B service companies.