Keeping The Dream Alive

Episode 56: You Are Not Alone (YANA) with Chris Finley & Stephan Stidfole

Wed, 15 Jul 2026 06:00:00 -0500

In this episode of Keeping the Dream Alive, Chris Finley and Stephan Stidfole return to the podcast to share the story behind the You're Not Alone (YANA) campaign and why its mission has become so important to the North Alabama community.

They discuss how YANA began as a grassroots effort between local defense industry partners and has grown into an annual event dedicated to supporting veterans through Still Serving Veterans. The conversation highlights the importance of preventive support for veterans, the challenges many face after military service, and how organizations across the region are working together to make a meaningful impact.

The episode also provides details about this year's YANA Night at Toyota Field on August 7, including how individuals and businesses can attend, sponsor the event, and help fill the stands in support of local veterans.

Whether you're a veteran, work alongside those who have served, or simply want to support an important cause, this conversation is a reminder that no one should have to face life's challenges alone.

https://ssv.org/event/you-are-not-alone-yana-trash-pandas-baseball-game/

Torch Technologies
https://torchtechnologies.com/

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Episode 55: Employee Morale & Welfare Committee with Elizabeth Phoumavong

Wed, 28 Jan 2026 06:00:00 -0600

In this episode of Keeping the Dream Alive, we sit down with Elizabeth Phoumavong of Torch Technologies to explore the work of the Employee Morale and Welfare Committee (EMWC). Elizabeth shares how the EMWC helps sustain Torch’s family-focused culture by organizing events ranging from company picnics and Christmas parties to ice cream socials, fall festivals, and community donation drives. She explains how the committee has evolved as Torch has grown, how employees across the company—including field offices—stay engaged, and why volunteer participation is such a defining part of Torch’s culture. We also discuss how new and longtime employees can get connected, find upcoming events, and get involved through committees and subcommittees.

Episode 54: Employee Ownership Culture Committee with Andrea Beasinger

Wed, 14 Jan 2026 06:00:00 -0600

In this episode of Keeping the Dream Alive, we sit down with Andrea Beasinger of Torch Technologies to explore the role of the Employee-Ownership Culture Committee (EOCC). Andrea explains how the committee energizes, empowers, and educates employee-owners through programs like ESOP Basics, deep-dive sessions, and quarterly lunches with the president. She also shares how employees can get involved, participate in events, or join the committee through Torch’s nomination process. It’s a clear look at how the EOCC strengthens connection, communication, and ownership across the company.

Episode 53: Enterprise Program Management with Amanda Clark

Wed, 17 Dec 2025 06:00:00 -0600

In this episode of Keeping the Dream Alive, we sit down with Amanda Clark of Torch Technologies to break down what Enterprise Program Management (EPM) is and why it plays such a crucial role within the company. Amanda explains how EPM oversees major umbrella contract vehicles, supports proposal efforts, and works across business units to align the right teams for each opportunity. She also shares how the group collaborates with leadership, business development, and technical teams to manage programs from pursuit through closeout. It’s a clear look at how EPM keeps Torch integrated, competitive, and focused on supporting both customers and employee owners.

Episode 52: Artificial Intelligence with Joe Pierce

Wed, 03 Dec 2025 06:00:00 -0600

In this episode of Keeping the Dream Alive, we sit down with Joe Pierce of Starfish Holdings to break down what artificial intelligence really is and why it has become such a major part of everyday life. Joe explains the differences between AI, machine learning, and deep learning, along with common ways we all use AI without even realizing it. We also dig into the biggest concerns companies face today—from privacy and data protection to the rising sophistication of AI-driven cyber threats. Joe shares how Starfish and the Torch family of companies are approaching AI responsibly while empowering their people and improving productivity. It’s a clear, grounded conversation about the opportunities and challenges ahead as AI continues to evolve.

Episode 51: Air Force Weapons Group with Sam Burkett

Wed, 22 Oct 2025 06:00:00 -0500

In this episode, Sam shares his journey from starting his career at Eglin Air Force Base to joining Torch in 2016, where he helped launch and grow Torch’s first Armament contract. We also dive into the future of the Air Force Weapons Group and the talented leadership team Sam has built to continue Torch’s mission of serving the warfighter.

Episode 50: Breakthrough T1D Walk with Jennifer Bentley & Lee Holland

Wed, 08 Oct 2025 06:00:00 -0500

In this episode, we’re joined by Jennifer Bentley, Alabama Chapter Director for Breakthrough T1D, and Lee Holland, President of Freedom Real Estate & Capital, to spotlight the upcoming Huntsville Breakthrough T1D Walk.

Jennifer shares the mission of Breakthrough T1D, the world’s leading organization funding Type 1 Diabetes research. From raising awareness to supporting families and driving progress toward a cure, the organization plays a vital role in the fight against T1D.

We also hear from Lee on why Freedom Real Estate partnered as the presenting sponsor for the walk, how this cause hits close to home, and why community involvement is a core part of their values. Together, they discuss the significance of hosting the event at Hays Farm, the importance of participation, and the many ways individuals, families, and businesses can get involved.

The walk takes place Sunday, October 26th at 2:00 PM at Hays Farm, offering the community an opportunity to support loved ones living with T1D, celebrate progress, and raise awareness.

https://www2.breakthrought1d.org/site/TR?fr_id=10360&pg=entry

Episode 49: Freedom Advisory Services with Tyce Hudson

Wed, 10 Sep 2025 07:00:00 -0500

On this episode of Keeping the Dream Alive, we’re joined by Tyce Hudson of Freedom Real Estate & Capital. With more than two decades of experience at Turner Construction and nearly four years at Freedom, Tyce shares his career journey and why he wishes he had made the move to Freedom sooner.

We dive into Freedom’s advisory services—what they are, who they are for, and how they help owners successfully navigate the complexities of construction projects. From mitigating risks to saving clients hundreds of thousands of dollars through practical, real-world insights, Tyce explains why having Freedom on your team more than pays for itself.

Episode 48: Allocation & Distribution with Cindy Walz

Wed, 27 Aug 2025 06:00:00 -0500

In this episode of Keeping the Dream Alive, we welcome back Cindy Walz, CFO of Torch Technologies and Starfish Holdings, for a deeper dive into the financial side of employee ownership. Building on her previous conversation about vesting and diversification, Cindy explains key concepts around ESOP allocations, distributions, and share price.

She breaks down how Torch’s ESOP works to build long-term wealth for employees, the role of company contributions, and how annual allocations are determined. Cindy also shares insights on what drives share price, how distributions are handled when employees retire or leave, and the long-term planning Torch does to ensure sustainability for generations of employee-owners.

Whether you’re new to Torch or a longtime employee, this episode offers valuable clarity on how our ESOP functions—and how it helps keep the dream of ownership and retirement security alive.

Episode 47: Vesting & Diversification with Cindy Walz

Wed, 06 Aug 2025 06:00:00 -0500

In this episode of The Keeping The Dream Alive Podcast, we sit down with Cindy Walz, CFO of Torch Technologies and Starfish Holdings, to dive into the intricacies of ESOPs (Employee Stock Ownership Plans), vesting, and diversification.

Cindy shares valuable insights into how ESOPs work, the vesting schedule, and the importance of diversification for employees. She explains how Torch’s unique ESOP structure helps build long-term wealth for employees and discusses the company’s strategic approach to managing employee funds. As the company continues to grow and evolve, Cindy also touches on the exciting developments ahead for Torch in 2025 and beyond.

Episode 46: Understanding ESOP Valuation with Bill Roark

Wed, 23 Jul 2025 06:00:00 -0500

In this episode of The Keeping The Dream Alive Podcast, we sit down with Bill Roark, co-founder of Torch Technologies, for a deep dive into what valuation means in an employee-owned company. Bill explains the annual ESOP valuation process—why it matters, how it’s calculated, and how every employee plays a role in growing the value of the company.

We explore the key differences between public and private company valuations, the impact of performance and forecasting, and how Torch, Freedom Real Estate, and Starfish Holdings fit together in the bigger picture. Bill also shares real-world examples of how small actions—like turning off the lights—can translate into real financial benefits for employee-owners.

Episode 45: STEPs with Virginia McCrary

Wed, 09 Jul 2025 06:00:00 -0500

In this episode of Keeping the Dream Alive, we’re joined by Virginia McCrary of Torch Technologies to dive into the STEPs program—Society of Torch Emerging Professionals. As one of the program’s founding organizers, Virginia shares how STEPS has evolved into a key part of preserving and growing Torch’s unique employee-owner culture.

From trivia nights and paint parties to professional development and community outreach, STEPS creates opportunities for all employees—new and seasoned—to connect beyond their day-to-day work. Virginia discusses how the program adapts to meet the needs of a growing company, encourages intern participation, and fosters a strong sense of belonging across the team.

🎧 Tune in to hear how STEPS is keeping the Torch culture thriving—one event at a time.

Episode 44: What is a Public Benefit Corporation with Clay Hagan

Wed, 25 Jun 2025 05:00:00 -0500

In this episode, we’re joined once again by Clay Hagan of Torch Technologies to talk about a major milestone in the company’s journey—becoming a Public Benefit Corporation (PBC) in early 2024.

Clay breaks down what it means to be a PBC, why Torch pursued this rare designation, and how it aligns with their long-term commitment to employee ownership, community impact, and sustainable growth. We dive into the multi-year process of transforming Torch’s governing documents, the unique responsibilities of being 100% employee-owned, and the importance of embedding purpose and values into the company’s foundation.

From their ESOP structure to their four core commitments as a PBC, this episode unpacks the why behind the move—and what it means for the future of Torch, its employees, and the broader community they serve.

Whether you're interested in the ESOP model, corporate governance, or building mission-driven companies, this episode offers a unique look inside a company striving to lead with intention and integrity.

Episode 43: Alabama A&M with Aaron Thompson

Wed, 11 Jun 2025 05:00:00 -0500

In this episode of Keeping The Dream Alive, we sit down with Aaron Thompson, Assistant Vice President for Advancement and Branding at Alabama A&M University, to explore the university’s 150-year legacy and its bold vision for the future.

Aaron shares how Alabama A&M is evolving through record-breaking enrollment, transformative campus projects, and a $150 million fundraising campaign focused on campus improvements, STEM infrastructure, and student scholarships. He also discusses the university’s deep connection to Huntsville’s growth and why students from across the country are choosing A&M for more than just academics—they’re choosing community, opportunity, and impact.

https://www.aamu.edu/

Episode 42: ESOP Culture with Bill Roark

Fri, 30 May 2025 06:00:00 -0500

In this episode of Keeping The Dream Alive, we sit down with Bill Roark,
co-founder of Torch Technologies, for a deep dive into the company's
unique ESOP (Employee Stock Ownership Plan) culture. Bill shares how
employee ownership isn't just a structure—it's a mindset that transforms
how people show up to work, collaborate across departments, and invest
in each other's success.

We explore the responsibilities and rewards of being an employee-owner,
how Torch fosters a family-like atmosphere, and the importance of
community engagement through events like the Children’s Christmas
Party, tailgates, and Torch Helps initiatives. Bill also reflects on the
company’s growth, the challenge of maintaining culture at scale, and
why long-term strategic planning and community impact remain central
to Torch’s mission.

Episode 41: Food Bank of North Alabama & Family Services Center

Wed, 14 May 2025 06:00:00 -0500

In this episode, we sit down with two leaders making a powerful impact in the Huntsville community—Darren Geiger, President & CEO of Family Services Center, and Shirley Schofield, CEO of the Food Bank of North Alabama.

They share how their organizations are addressing core issues like food insecurity, homelessness, mental health, and family support through a wide range of services—from workforce development and grief counseling to food distribution and school partnerships. With Huntsville’s rapid growth, both organizations are navigating increased demand while emphasizing the importance of collaboration, data-driven impact, and diversified funding strategies.

We explore the realities their clients face, how their missions have evolved, and what their biggest needs are heading into 2025. Whether it’s providing shelter, serving 80,000+ people each month with food, or connecting families with vital resources, Darren and Shirley are on the front lines of building a stronger, more supportive community.

If you’re looking for ways to give back, get involved, or better understand the human needs in our region—this is a conversation you won’t want to miss.

https://fsc-hsv.org/

https://www.foodbanknorthal.org/

Episode 40: What is an ESOP with Clay Hagan

Wed, 30 Apr 2025 05:00:00 -0500

In this episode of Keeping The Dream Alive, we're excited to welcome back Clay Hagan for an in-depth conversation about one of the foundational elements of Torch Technologies: the ESOP (Employee Stock Ownership Plan). Clay breaks down what an ESOP is, why it’s such a crucial part of Torch’s culture, and how employee ownership impacts career growth, company loyalty, and long-term value. We dive into the history of Torch’s ESOP journey—from its early days as a small spinout to becoming a 100% employee-owned company—and explore how Torch has built systems to ensure sustainability for both current and future employees.

Episode 39: Huntsville Hospital & SIMVANA Partnership

Fri, 18 Apr 2025 05:00:00 -0500

In this episode of Keeping The Dream Alive, we dive into the cutting-edge partnership between SIMVANA and Huntsville Hospital, exploring how virtual reality training is transforming the way nurses are onboarded and trained. Our guests, Alexis Spalding, Director of Clinical Nursing Practice at Huntsville Hospital, and Nathan Faught, Program Manager at SIMVANA, share how this collaboration is addressing key challenges in medical education—providing hands-on, immersive training without patient risk.

From VR-simulated medical equipment to AI-powered patient interactions, Sivan is revolutionizing nurse training, ensuring that both new and experienced professionals are prepared for real-world scenarios. We also discuss the future of VR in healthcare, its scalability across hospitals nationwide, and how AI-driven learning is shaping the next generation of medical professionals.

Tune in to learn how this game-changing technology is improving nurse education, patient care, and hospital efficiency.

Episode 38: Free 2 Teach & The Downtown Rescue Mission

Wed, 09 Apr 2025 05:00:00 -0500

In this episode, I sit down with Keith Overholt from the Downtown Rescue Mission and Alison Kling from Free 2 Teach—two nonprofit leaders making a powerful impact in Huntsville. Keith shares how the mission is expanding its efforts to support a growing population of young people experiencing homelessness, while Alison dives into how Free 2 Teach equips teachers across public schools with the supplies they need to empower students. We explore the unique challenges both organizations face, the innovative ways they stretch every dollar, and how the community can get involved.

https://free2teach.org
https://www.downtownrescuemission.org

Episode 37: Alzheimer’s Association & The Heart Association

Wed, 19 Mar 2025 05:00:00 -0500

In this episode, we sit down with Abigail Mercer of the Alzheimer’s Association and Stephanie Cline of the Heart Association to discuss two major health challenges affecting our communities. Abigail sheds light on the widespread impact of Alzheimer’s, dispelling misconceptions and highlighting the staggering number of those affected, including young individuals. Stephanie emphasizes the importance of knowing your number —blood pressure, cholesterol, and blood sugar—to prevent heart disease and stroke. Tune in for an insightful conversation on awareness, prevention, and the steps we can all take toward better health.

https://www.alz.org
https://www.heart.org

Episode 36: Veterans Program with Christopher Finley & Stephan Stidfole

Wed, 05 Mar 2025 05:00:00 -0600

In this episode, we sit down with Stephen Stidfole and Chris Finley of Torch Technologies to discuss how their Veterans Program is creating meaningful career transitions for service members through initiatives like DoD SkillBridge and Hiring Our Heroes. They share how Torch fosters a strong sense of community, provides mentorship, and supports veterans beyond hiring, making a lasting impact in Huntsville and beyond.

Episode 35: Torch's New Core Values with Charlie Crowe

Wed, 19 Feb 2025 11:00:00 -0600

In this episode, we sit down with Charlie Crowe to discuss the process of defining and formalizing the core values at Torch— values that had long been ingrained in the company’s culture. Charlie shares how leadership recognized these principles
through years of experience and simply put them into words. We also explore the mindset of ownership at Torch, where every team member takes responsibility beyond their job description to ensure success. From stepping up in the workplace to giving back to the community, Charlie emphasizes the impact of a shared commitment to excellence and service.

Episode 34: Breakthrough T1D & New Hope Children's Clinic

Wed, 29 Jan 2025 05:00:00 -0600

In this episode of the Keeping the Dream Alive podcast, we talk with Cindy Williamson, Executive Director of New Hope Children's Clinic, and Jennifer Bentley, State Director for Breakthrough T1D. They discuss the missions of their organizations: providing accessible healthcare for children in New Hope and advancing support and research for individuals affected by type 1 diabetes across Alabama. They share insights into the challenges of funding, and both leaders highlight the critical role of volunteers and partnerships in achieving their goals, inviting listeners to get involved.

Breakthrough T1D: https://www.breakthrought1d.org/

New Hope Children's Clinic: https://newhopechildrensclinic.org/

Episode 33: 2024 Recap with Torch President Brad Walker

Fri, 17 Jan 2025 05:00:00 -0600

In this episode of Keeping the Dream Alive, we sit down with Brad Walker, President of Torch Technologies, to reflect on 2024 and discuss plans for 2025. Brad shares insights into Torch's growth, driven by strategic planning, employee ownership, and a focus on customer satisfaction. He highlights the company’s six focus areas, including maintaining stability, diversifying its customer base, fostering leadership development, and giving back to local communities.

Brad also discusses infrastructure upgrades, leadership training programs, and Torch’s status as a public benefit corporation. Looking ahead, he outlines plans for implementing new enterprise systems, achieving CMMC Level 2 certification, and strengthening internal communications. This episode offers a compelling look at how Torch continues to thrive as an employee-owned, mission-driven organization.

https://torchtechnologies.com/

Episode 32: The Future of Freedom Real Estate with Brenda Conville & Lee Holland

Wed, 25 Sep 2024 06:00:00 -0500

In this episode we sit down with Lee Holland and Brenda Conville to discuss Freedom Real Estate's evolution from a property management and leasing subsidiary of Torch Technologies to a full-service real estate firm. Now offering
brokerage, construction, and development services, Freedom Real Estate has expanded its operations with a focus on sales and leasing. Lee and Brenda highlight two major projects: an industrial park near Toyota Motor Manufacturing, offering flexible building sizes for various industries, and a class A office building
at Hayes Farm—the first of its kind in South Huntsville in 20 years, part of a master-planned community. They also share plans for further growth, including potential projects in downtown Huntsville and beyond Alabama.

Episode 31: Freedom Real Estate Anniversary with Bill Roark

Wed, 11 Sep 2024 06:00:00 -0500

In this episode we sit down with Bill Roark, CEO of Freedom Real Estate, to discuss the company's origins and its impact on Huntsville's growth. Initially created as a subsidiary of Torch to generate better returns than the company's cash reserves, Freedom Real Estate faced initial resistance from the board. However, after an article in the Wall Street Journal validated the concept, the board approved the formation of the company. Since then, Freedom Real Estate has expanded from managing its own buildings to taking on construction projects and offering advisory services. Bill shares how the company has played a key role in revitalizing South Huntsville and outlines plans for further expansion and partnerships in the future.

Episode 30: Corporate Philanthropy with Clay Hagan

Wed, 28 Aug 2024 06:00:00 -0500

Episode 29: TIPC with Corey Chandler

Wed, 07 Aug 2024 06:00:00 -0500

Corey Chandler discusses the Technology Integration and Prototyping Center (TIPC) at Torch Technologies. TIPC is a unique capability that supports rapid prototyping and solutions development for the government. It was opened in 2019 and provides dedicated lab space for various disciplines, including mechanical engineering, electrical engineering, optics, and fabrication. Torch has been able to find engineers for TIPC through a combination of internal promotions and external hires. TIPC has been able to provide substantial value to customers by expanding their requirements and offering progressive engagement. The future of TIPSI involves developing more complex systems and becoming a one-stop shop for customers.

Episode 28: Adoption Assistance Program with Cathy McDonald & John Watson

Wed, 19 Jun 2024 06:00:00 -0500

In this podcast episode, Cathy McDonald and John Watson discuss Torch Technologies' Adoption Assistance Program, introduced during its shift to a public benefit corporation. They outline the program's straightforward structure and substantial reimbursement policies, noting its favorable reception from the board and employees alike. The discussion highlights Torch's dedication to employee support, leadership development, and community innovation. Their conversation aims to distinguish Torch from other companies and encourage positive workplace practices.

Episode 27: Built with Purpose with Bill Roark

Wed, 05 Jun 2024 08:00:00 -0500

Bill Roark, co-founder of Torch Technologies, delves into his recent book, Built with Purpose. This work chronicles the formative years and history of Torch Technologies, a company with a two-decade legacy. Roark shares insights into the book's creation, detailing his collaboration with a ghostwriter and the extensive interviews conducted with current and former employees. Rather than serving as a how-to guide, the book is a compilation of pivotal stories and events that have shaped the company. Roark underscores the significance of employee ownership and highlights the company's commitment to its employees and community.

https://www.amazon.com/Built-Purpose-Employee-Owned-Business-Changed/dp/1632998025/ref=sr_1_1?crid=2P6GMYG3R4BVC&dib=eyJ2IjoiMSJ9.O99oQMhPVaV5Dr1YkuhQuA.D9CL_3C7aJht2Tw89BN2E5npmvcpp0dp5q5MsKyQKjE&dib_tag=se&keywords=built+with+purpose+bill+roark&qid=1717593716&sprefix=built+with+%2Caps%2C131&sr=8-1

https://torchtechnologies.com/

Episode 26: SIMVANA with Darryl Trousdale

Wed, 15 May 2024 05:00:00 -0500

Darrell Trousdale, the project manager of the Advanced VIZLAB at Torch Technology, discusses the journey of SIMVANA and its impact in various fields. SIMVANA, a part of the Advanced VIZLAB, was initially developed for virtual training capabilities in the defense industry. However, it has expanded to other areas such as anesthesiology and nursing onboarding. SIMVANA offers a training platform with virtual lessons and simulations that can be accessed globally. The software is continuously updated and has the potential for further growth and use cases. The podcast highlights the importance of Keeping the Dream Alive and passing it on to future generations.

https://simvana.com
https://torchtechnologies.com

Episode 25: The IRAD Program with Bruce Peters

Wed, 01 May 2024 05:00:00 -0500

In this episode, we interview Bruce Peters to talk about the company's Internal Research and Development (IRAD) program. Bruce shares his background and how he got involved in the program. He discusses the importance of linking innovative ideas with customer needs and the role of different disciplines in project management. Bruce
highlights the advantages of Torch's ESOP structure and how it allows for long-term investments in solving difficult problems. The episode concludes with a discussion of the relationship between the IRAD program and the summer intern program at Torch, emphasizing the importance of application and learning in internships.

Episode 24: New Starfish CEO with Bill Roark

Wed, 10 Apr 2024 06:00:00 -0500

In this episode, we sit down to talk with Bill Roark about his transition as Starfish Holdings CEO. We also discuss the role he will now play as Chairman of the Board, his upcoming book release in May, and future travel plans across the country.

Episode 23: Co-Founder of Torch Technologies with Don Holder

Wed, 24 Jan 2024 05:00:00 -0600

In this episode, we talk with Don Holder Co-Founder of Torch. We discuss his educational background, the discussion with Bill Roark back in 2002 to join Torch, what it’s like now to see Torch continue to grow 20+ years later, and what advice he would give to new and current employee-owners of Torch Technologies.

Episode 22: Employee Spotlight with Mike O'Melia

Thu, 04 Jan 2024 04:00:00 -0600

In this episode, we sit down to talk with Mike O'Melia who has been at Torch Technologies for 19 years now, coming up on 20. We discussed his knowledge of ESOPs before joining Torch, the importance of the term employee-owner , and his challenge to the younger employees just beginning their career at Torch

Episode 21: Public Benefit Corporation with Bill Roark

Wed, 06 Dec 2023 05:00:00 -0600

In this episode, we talk with Bill Roark to discuss Torch’s newest distinction of becoming a Public Benefit Corporation. We discuss the differences between a Public Benefit Corp and a B Corp, how this distinction pairs with being an Evergreen Company, and the commitment Torch has to grow and be profitable for more than 100 years.

Episode 20: Freedom Real Estate with Brenda Conville & Lee Holland

Wed, 25 Oct 2023 05:00:00 -0500

In this episode, we sit down to talk with Brenda Conville and Lee Holland of Freedom Real Estate & Capital a sister company to Torch Technologies. We discuss their backgrounds prior to joining Freedom, the exponential growth Freedom has had in a short few years, the ESOP structure that connects Freedom with Torch, and the future goals they both have for Freedom moving into 2024 and beyond.

Episode 19: CEO of Torch Technologies with John Watson

Wed, 11 Oct 2023 05:00:00 -0500

In this episode, we sit down to talk with John Watson who has been at Torch Technologies since 2009 and who was promoted to CEO in 2018. We discuss his educational background, how he met Bill Roark while at Nichols Research, the initial decision to join Torch, and the future goals he has for Torch moving into 2024 and beyond.

Episode 18: Torch Helps with Maureen Eversmeyer, LaJoy Johns, & Samantha Blumkin

Wed, 27 Sep 2023 05:00:00 -0500

We sit down with the current Board Chair of Torch Helps, Samantha Blumkin, and the previous two Board Chairs, Maureen Eversmeyer and LaJoy Johns. We discuss their backgrounds at Torch, the mission of Torch Helps, and the future impact they hope Torch Helps has in the community.

Episode 17: Internal Stock Exchange with Bill Roark

Wed, 13 Sep 2023 05:00:00 -0500

In this episode, we sit down with Bill Roark Co-Founder of Torch Technologies to discuss the Internal Stock Exchange. We discuss the employee benefit, the importance of having it, and the impact it will have on employee-owners for years to come.

Episode 16: President of Torch Technologies with Brad Walker

Wed, 30 Aug 2023 05:00:00 -0500

In this episode, we sit down to talk with Brad Walker who has been at Torch Technologies since 2006 and who recently got promoted to President of the company in January 2023. We discuss his educational background, how he met Bill Roark while at Nichols Research, the initial decision to join Torch in 2006, and how his day to day has changed since becoming President.

Episode 15: Employee Spotlight with Jim Moore

Wed, 05 Jul 2023 05:00:00 -0500

In this episode, we sit down to talk with Jim Moore who has been at Torch Technologies for 19 years now, coming up on 20. He currently works in the Shalimar, Florida office at Eglin Air Force Base. We discuss his knowledge of ESOPs prior to joining Torch, the discussion 10 years ago to move to Shalimar Florida to help open that office, and how the company culture ultimately led his wife to also join Torch five years ago.

Episode 14: Employee Spotlight with Samantha Blumkin

Wed, 14 Jun 2023 05:00:00 -0500

In this episode, we talk with the lead program control analyst Samantha Blumkin. She helps lead all the program control analysts that support our ACE group here at Torch. During this episode, we discuss what it was like joining Torch back in 2013, her decision to leave Torch for a few months back in 2020 and her passion to educate the younger employees about things she wishes she would've known when she first started.

https://torchtechnologies.com

Episode 13: Employee Spotlight with Jim Diehl

Wed, 31 May 2023 05:00:00 -0500

In this episode, we sit down to talk with Jim Diehl, who recently retired but was the corporate chief of staff working directly for the president and the program manager for the MDA programs here at Torch Technologies. During this episode, we discuss what it was like joining Torch back in 2009 after almost 30 years of working at Teledyne Brown. We also discuss how the culture at Torch differed from his previous work experiences. and the value that the ESOP was to him as an employee, and also now as a recent retiree.

https://torchtechnologies.com

Episode 12: Employee Spotlight with Adam Sampley

Wed, 26 Apr 2023 05:00:00 -0500

In this episode, we sit down to talk with Adam Sampley who helps lead the aircraft survivability team under the tactical systems business unit here at Torch Technologies. During this episode, we discuss what it was like to join Torch 19 years ago directly out of college, the value of the ESOP program to him, what advice he would give to someone first beginning their career here, and what he believes separates Torch from other companies.

Episode 11: Employee Spotlight with Clayton Newkirk

Thu, 06 Apr 2023 05:00:00 -0500

In this episode, we sit down to talk with Clayton Newkirk Senior Director here at Torch Technologies. During this episode, we discuss what it was like joining Torch 20 years ago, the value of the ESOP program to him, what advice he would give to someone first beginning their career here, and what milestones/achievements he would love to see Torch receive in the near future.

Episode 10: Principle of Pragmatic Innovation

Thu, 16 Mar 2023 05:00:00 -0500

In this episode, we talk with Bill Roark, Co-Founder of Torch Technologies, to talk a little bit about the Tugboat Institute and their Principle of Pragmatic Innovation. We discuss the mindset he has had over the last 20 years when taking calculated risks and what the biggest calculated risk he has had to make for Torch over the last 20 years and how he approached that decision.

Episode 9: Principle of Profit

Thu, 02 Mar 2023 05:00:00 -0600

In this episode, we talk with Bill Roark, Co-Founder of Torch Technologies, to talk a little bit about the Tugboat Institute and their Principle of Profit. We discuss the importance of profit to the survival of Torch specifically in the early years, how Bill was able to balance the desire to increase profits without making it the purpose of Torch, and how the true value of profit is what you deliver to the customer and how Torch has been able to deliver exceptional value over the last 20 years.

Episode 8: Principle of Paced Growth

Thu, 09 Feb 2023 04:00:00 -0600

In this episode, we talk with Bill Roark, Co-Founder of Torch Technologies, to talk a little bit about the Tugboat Institute and its Principle of Paced Growth. We discuss some of the long-term strategies put in place for Torch back in 2002, how Bill was able to balance short-term performance with Torch’s long-term goals, how Torch has been so consistent year to year over the last 20 years, and how we hope to continue this momentum moving forward.

Episode 7: What's Ahead for 2023

Fri, 09 Dec 2022 05:00:00 -0600

In this episode, we talk with Bill Roark CoFounder of Torch Technologies to talk a little bit about 2022 and some of the goals and milestones that Torch, Freedom Real Estate, & Simvana have been able to achieve across this year, as well as some of the goals we have for the podcast moving forward into 2023. Be sure to subscribe to the podcast wherever you listen.

Principle of Private

Sun, 20 Nov 2022 14:00:00 -0600

In this episode we sit down with Bill Roark to discuss the Tugboat Institute and their Principle of Private which they define as taking advantage of the ability of closely-held private companies to have a longer-term view, greater confidentiality around strategies, and more operating flexibility than public or exit-oriented businesses. We discuss Bill's work experiences prior to Torch and the impact those had on the formation of Torch, the journey of forming a company that is privately held, and the impact that this decision has had on current and former employees here at Torch.

Employee Owner

Sun, 30 Oct 2022 09:00:00 -0500

In this episode of The Keeping the Dream Alive Podcast, we talk with Bill Roark, CoFounder of Torch Technologies and Brady Porter, a current employee of Torch. We discuss the general structuring of the ESOP, the impact that the ESOP has had on Brady's life over his 18 years of service and how the overall atmosphere of Torch has been impacted based on the employee ownership model.

20th Anniversary Special

Mon, 24 Oct 2022 08:00:00 -0500

In this episode of The Keeping the Dream Alive Podcast, we talk with Bill Roark CoFounder of Torch Technologies and reminisce over the last 20 years. We discuss the history of Torch, lessons he has learned along the way, & what the future looks like for Torch.

Principle of People First

Wed, 28 Sep 2022 04:00:00 -0500

In this episode of The Keeping the Dream Alive Podcast we sit down with Bill Roark Co-Founder of Torch Technologies to continue our conversation and discuss The Tugboat Institute and their Third P of People First.

Principle of Perseverance

Wed, 14 Sep 2022 04:00:00 -0500

Introduction to Evergreen

Sat, 23 Jul 2022 07:00:00 -0500

In this episode, we sit down with Bill Roark Co-founder of Torch Technologies to learn more about their history and one of their newest accomplishments of being recognized as a Certified Evergreen Company. We discuss what it means to be an evergreen company, the principle of purpose within the Tugboat Group, and how it applies to Torch. The Tugboat Group defines purpose as having a compelling reason for existing--a North Star above all else. You can learn more about the Tugboat Group by visiting their website.

https://www.tugboatinstitute.com/
https://www.torchtechnologies.com/