Keeping The Dream Alive podcast

21:13

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. Torch Technologies https://torchtechnologies.com/ https://www.instagram.com/torchtechnologiesinc/ https://www.linkedin.com/company/torch-technologies-inc./posts/?feedView=all https://www.facebook.com/TorchTechnologiesInc/…

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Episode 39: Huntsville Hospital & SIMVANA Partnership 15:05

21 days ago15:05

15:05

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. Torch Technologies https://torchtechnologies.com/ https://www.instagram.com/torchtechnologiesinc/ https://www.linkedin.com/company/torch-technologies-inc./posts/?feedView=all https://www.facebook.com/TorchTechnologiesInc/…

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Episode 38: Free 2 Teach & The Downtown Rescue Mission 17:09

30 days ago17:09

17:09

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 Torch Technologies https://torchtechnologies.com/ https://www.instagram.com/torchtechnologiesinc/ https://www.linkedin.com/company/torch-technologies-inc./posts/?feedView=all https://www.facebook.com/TorchTechnologiesInc/…

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Episode 37: Alzheimer’s Association & The Heart Association 16:12

7 weeks ago16:12

16:12

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 Torch Technologies https://torchtechnologies.com/ https://www.instagram.com/torchtechnologiesinc/ https://www.linkedin.com/company/torch-technologies-inc./posts/?feedView=all https://www.facebook.com/TorchTechnologiesInc/…

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Episode 36: Veterans Program with Christopher Finley & Stephan Stidfole 12:26

9 weeks ago12:26

12:26

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. Torch Technologies https://torchtechnologies.com/ https://www.instagram.com/torchtechnologiesinc/ https://www.linkedin.com/company/torch-technologies-inc./posts/?feedView=all https://www.facebook.com/TorchTechnologiesInc/…

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Episode 35: Torch's New Core Values with Charlie Crowe 20:51

11 weeks ago20:51

20:51

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. Torch Technologies https://torchtechnologies.com/ https://www.instagram.com/torchtechnologiesinc/ https://www.linkedin.com/company/torch-technologies-inc./posts/?feedView=all https://www.facebook.com/TorchTechnologiesInc/…

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Episode 34: Breakthrough T1D & New Hope Children's Clinic 12:56

14 weeks ago12:56

12:56

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/ Torch Technologies https://torchtechnologies.com/ https://www.instagram.com/torchtechnologiesinc/ https://www.linkedin.com/company/torch-technologies-inc./posts/?feedView=all https://www.facebook.com/TorchTechnologiesInc/…

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Episode 33: 2024 Recap with Torch President Brad Walker 21:38

16 weeks ago21:38

21:38

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/ Torch Technologies https://torchtechnologies.com/ https://www.instagram.com/torchtechnologiesinc/ https://www.linkedin.com/company/torch-technologies-inc./posts/?feedView=all https://www.facebook.com/TorchTechnologiesInc/…

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Episode 32: The Future of Freedom Real Estate with Brenda Conville & Lee Holland 20:52

32 weeks ago20:52

20:52

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. Torch Technologies https://torchtechnologies.com/ https://www.instagram.com/torchtechnologiesinc/ https://www.linkedin.com/company/torch-technologies-inc./posts/?feedView=all https://www.facebook.com/TorchTechnologiesInc/…

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Episode 31: Freedom Real Estate Anniversary with Bill Roark 13:51

34 weeks ago13:51

13:51

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. Torch Technologies https://torchtechnologies.com/ https://www.instagram.com/torchtechnologiesinc/ https://www.linkedin.com/company/torch-technologies-inc./posts/?feedView=all https://www.facebook.com/TorchTechnologiesInc/…

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Episode 30: Corporate Philanthropy with Clay Hagan 17:53

36 weeks ago17:53

17:53

Torch Technologies https://torchtechnologies.com/ https://www.instagram.com/torchtechnologiesinc/ https://www.linkedin.com/company/torch-technologies-inc./posts/?feedView=all https://www.facebook.com/TorchTechnologiesInc/

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Episode 29: TIPC with Corey Chandler 10:14

39 weeks ago10:14

10:14

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. Torch Technologies https://torchtechnologies.com/ https://www.instagram.com/torchtechnologiesinc/ https://www.linkedin.com/company/torch-technologies-inc./posts/?feedView=all https://www.facebook.com/TorchTechnologiesInc/…

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Episode 28: Adoption Assistance Program with Cathy McDonald & John Watson 9:25

46 weeks ago9:25

9:25

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. Torch Technologies https://torchtechnologies.com/ https://www.instagram.com/torchtechnologiesinc/ https://www.linkedin.com/company/torch-technologies-inc./posts/?feedView=all https://www.facebook.com/TorchTechnologiesInc/…

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Episode 27: Built with Purpose with Bill Roark 12:28

48 weeks ago12:28

12:28

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/ Torch Technologies https://torchtechnologies.com/ https://www.instagram.com/torchtechnologiesinc/ https://www.linkedin.com/company/torch-technologies-inc./posts/?feedView=all https://www.facebook.com/TorchTechnologiesInc/…

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Episode 26: SIMVANA with Darryl Trousdale 13:20

51 weeks ago13:20

13:20

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 Torch Technologies https://torchtechnologies.com/ https://www.instagram.com/torchtechnologiesinc/ https://www.linkedin.com/company/torch-technologies-inc./posts/?feedView=all https://www.facebook.com/TorchTechnologiesInc/…

Keeping The Dream Alive

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Episode 25: The IRAD Program with Bruce Peters 21:59

1 year ago21:59

21:59

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. Torch Technologies https://torchtechnologies.com/ https://www.instagram.com/torchtechnologiesinc/ https://www.linkedin.com/company/torch-technologies-inc./posts/?feedView=all https://www.facebook.com/TorchTechnologiesInc/…

Keeping The Dream Alive

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Episode 24: New Starfish CEO with Bill Roark 11:19

1 year ago11:19

11:19

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. Torch Technologies https://torchtechnologies.com/ https://www.instagram.com/torchtechnologiesinc/ https://www.linkedin.com/company/torch-technologies-inc./posts/?feedView=all https://www.facebook.com/TorchTechnologiesInc/…

Keeping The Dream Alive

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Episode 23: Co-Founder of Torch Technologies with Don Holder 18:58

1 year ago18:58

18:58

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. Torch Technologies https://torchtechnologies.com/ https://www.instagram.com/torchtechnologiesinc/ https://www.linkedin.com/company/torch-technologies-inc./posts/?feedView=all https://www.facebook.com/TorchTechnologiesInc/…

Keeping The Dream Alive

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Episode 22: Employee Spotlight with Mike O'Melia 15:23

1 year ago15:23

15:23

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 Torch Technologies https://torchtechnologies.com/ https://www.instagram.com/torchtechnologiesinc/ https://www.linkedin.com/company/torch-technologies-inc./posts/?feedView=all https://www.facebook.com/TorchTechnologiesInc/…

Keeping The Dream Alive

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Episode 21: Public Benefit Corporation with Bill Roark 11:30

1 year ago11:30

11:30

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. Torch Technologies https://torchtechnologies.com/ https://www.instagram.com/torchtechnologiesinc/ https://www.linkedin.com/company/torch-technologies-inc./posts/?feedView=all https://www.facebook.com/TorchTechnologiesInc/…

Keeping The Dream Alive

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Episode 20: Freedom Real Estate with Brenda Conville & Lee Holland 21:53

2 years ago21:53

21:53

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. Torch Technologies https://torchtechnologies.com/ https://www.instagram.com/torchtechnologiesinc/ https://www.linkedin.com/company/torch-technologies-inc./posts/?feedView=all https://www.facebook.com/TorchTechnologiesInc/…

Keeping The Dream Alive

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Episode 19: CEO of Torch Technologies with John Watson 19:26

2 years ago19:26

19:26

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. Torch Technologies https://torchtechnologies.com/ https://www.instagram.com/torchtechnologiesinc/ https://www.linkedin.com/company/torch-technologies-inc./posts/?feedView=all https://www.facebook.com/TorchTechnologiesInc/…

Keeping The Dream Alive

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Episode 18: Torch Helps with Maureen Eversmeyer, LaJoy Johns, & Samantha Blumkin 17:24

2 years ago17:24

17:24

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. Torch Technologies https://torchtechnologies.com/ https://www.instagram.com/torchtechnologiesinc/ https://www.linkedin.com/company/torch-technologies-inc./posts/?feedView=all https://www.facebook.com/TorchTechnologiesInc/…

Keeping The Dream Alive

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Episode 17: Internal Stock Exchange with Bill Roark 10:00

2 years ago10:00

10:00

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. Torch Technologies https://torchtechnologies.com/ https://www.instagram.com/torchtechnologiesinc/ https://www.linkedin.com/company/torch-technologies-inc./posts/?feedView=all https://www.facebook.com/TorchTechnologiesInc/…

Keeping The Dream Alive

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Episode 16: President of Torch Technologies with Brad Walker 23:51

2 years ago23:51

23:51

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. Torch Technologies https://torchtechnologies.com/ https://www.instagram.com/torchtechnologiesinc/ https://www.linkedin.com/company/torch-technologies-inc./posts/?feedView=all https://www.facebook.com/TorchTechnologiesInc/…

Keeping The Dream Alive

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Episode 15: Employee Spotlight with Jim Moore 14:26

2 years ago14:26

14:26

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. Torch Technologies https://torchtechnologies.com/ https://www.instagram.com/torchtechnologiesinc/ https://www.linkedin.com/company/torch-technologies-inc./posts/?feedView=all https://www.facebook.com/TorchTechnologiesInc/…

Keeping The Dream Alive

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Episode 14: Employee Spotlight with Samantha Blumkin 19:46

2 years ago19:46

19:46

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 Torch Technologies https://torchtechnologies.com/ https://www.instagram.com/torchtechnologiesinc/ https://www.linkedin.com/company/torch-technologies-inc./posts/?feedView=all https://www.facebook.com/TorchTechnologiesInc/…

Keeping The Dream Alive

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Episode 13: Employee Spotlight with Jim Diehl 25:49

2 years ago25:49

25:49

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 Torch Technologies https://torchtechnologies.com/ https://www.instagram.com/torchtechnologiesinc/ https://www.linkedin.com/company/torch-technologies-inc./posts/?feedView=all https://www.facebook.com/TorchTechnologiesInc/…

Keeping The Dream Alive

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Episode 12: Employee Spotlight with Adam Sampley 14:26

2 years ago14:26

14:26

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. Torch Technologies https://torchtechnologies.com/ https://www.instagram.com/torchtechnologiesinc/ https://www.linkedin.com/company/torch-technologies-inc./posts/?feedView=all https://www.facebook.com/TorchTechnologiesInc/…

Keeping The Dream Alive

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Episode 11: Employee Spotlight with Clayton Newkirk 12:57

2 years ago12:57

12:57

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. Torch Technologies https://torchtechnologies.com/ https://www.instagram.com/torchtechnologiesinc/ https://www.linkedin.com/company/torch-technologies-inc./posts/?feedView=all https://www.facebook.com/TorchTechnologiesInc/…

Keeping The Dream Alive

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Episode 10: Principle of Pragmatic Innovation 11:59

2 years ago11:59

11:59

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. Torch Technologies https://torchtechnologies.com/ https://www.instagram.com/torchtechnologiesinc/ https://www.linkedin.com/company/torch-technologies-inc./posts/?feedView=all https://www.facebook.com/TorchTechnologiesInc/…

Keeping The Dream Alive

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Episode 9: Principle of Profit 8:51

2 years ago8:51

8:51

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. Torch Technologies https://torchtechnologies.com/ https://www.instagram.com/torchtechnologiesinc/ https://www.linkedin.com/company/torch-technologies-inc./posts/?feedView=all https://www.facebook.com/TorchTechnologiesInc/…

Keeping The Dream Alive

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Episode 8: Principle of Paced Growth 12:32

2 years ago12:32

12:32

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. Torch Technologies https://torchtechnologies.com/ https://www.instagram.com/torchtechnologiesinc/ https://www.linkedin.com/company/torch-technologies-inc./posts/?feedView=all https://www.facebook.com/TorchTechnologiesInc/…

Keeping The Dream Alive

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Episode 7: What's Ahead for 2023 18:03

2 years ago18:03

18:03

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. Torch Technologies https://torchtechnologies.com/ https://www.instagram.com/torchtechnologiesinc/ https://www.linkedin.com/company/torch-technologies-inc./posts/?feedView=all https://www.facebook.com/TorchTechnologiesInc/…

Keeping The Dream Alive

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Principle of Private 14:38

2 years ago14:38

14:38

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. Torch Technologies https://torchtechnologies.com/ https://www.instagram.com/torchtechnologiesinc/ https://www.linkedin.com/company/torch-technologies-inc./posts/?feedView=all https://www.facebook.com/TorchTechnologiesInc/…

Keeping The Dream Alive

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Employee Owner 17:33

3 years ago17:33

17:33

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. Torch Technologies https://torchtechnologies.com/ https://www.instagram.com/torchtechnologiesinc/ https://www.linkedin.com/company/torch-technologies-inc./posts/?feedView=all https://www.facebook.com/TorchTechnologiesInc/…

Keeping The Dream Alive

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20th Anniversary Special 22:30

3 years ago22:30

22:30

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. Torch Technologies https://torchtechnologies.com/ https://www.instagram.com/torchtechnologiesinc/ https://www.linkedin.com/company/torch-technologies-inc./posts/?feedView=all https://www.facebook.com/TorchTechnologiesInc/…

Keeping The Dream Alive

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Principle of People First 20:24

3 years ago20:24

20:24

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. Torch Technologies https://torchtechnologies.com/ https://www.instagram.com/torchtechnologiesinc/ https://www.linkedin.com/company/torch-technologies-inc./posts/?feedView=all https://www.facebook.com/TorchTechnologiesInc/…

Keeping The Dream Alive

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Principle of Perseverance 15:59

3 years ago15:59

15:59

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 second P of Perseverance. Torch Technologies https://torchtechnologies.com/ https://www.instagram.com/torchtechnologiesinc/ https://www.linkedin.com/company/torch-technologies-inc./posts/?feedView=all https://www.facebook.com/TorchTechnologiesInc/…

Keeping The Dream Alive

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Introduction to Evergreen 21:45

3 years ago21:45