I am the author of the forthcoming book The Influential Leader: Insights, Inspiration, and Strategies for Leadership Excellence, as well as an inspirational keynote speaker, coach, and trainer dedicated to empowering and equipping aspiring, emerging, and experienced leaders. My work focuses on supporting minority-owned businesses, women-led startups, rural entrepreneurs, creative professionals such as independent artists and designers, and trades-based enterprises including local contractors and specialty food producers. I serve individuals, organizations, and communities with the goal of inspiring transformation and driving sustainable growth.

My mission is to deliver practical expertise and meaningful resources to help:

• Minority-owned businesses overcome barriers such as access to capital, complex regulatory environments, and systemic obstacles to market entry.
• Women-led startups navigate challenges around funding, networking, and building visibility in traditionally male-dominated industries.
• Rural entrepreneurs address constraints related to connectivity, workforce availability, and limited support services that hinder innovation and expansion.
• Creative industry professionals manage inconsistent income streams, strengthen marketing strategies, and safeguard their intellectual property.
• Trades-based businessesenhance scalability, maintain regulatory compliance, and compete effectively in evolving markets.

Across all these groups, I support leaders in leveraging technology and adapting to rapidly changing consumer expectations.

I currently serve as CEO and President of Arete Media Associates, Inc., and am a certified member of the John C. Maxwell Leadership Team. My insights are grounded in more than 30 years of experience as a manager and CEO of radio stations and small media companies. A graduate of the Georgia Academy for Economic Development, I specialize in regional economic and leadership development, with an emphasis on business growth and workforce advancement.

My work has been recognized by several prominent institutions, including:

• Harvard Business School – Institute for Strategy & Competitiveness
• U.S. Office of Management & Budget
• Federal Supply Service Center for Acquisition Excellence
• Cisco Systems
• Microsoft
• U.S. Department of Labor
• Georgia Institute of Technology

I have also served as a guest lecturer at numerous colleges and universities, including Davidson College, the University of South Florida, and Wheaton College.

I currently reside in Lawrenceville, Georgia.