Metrolina Business Council (MBC)

Today's Metrolina Business Council (MBC) meeting at Project 658 featured an inspiring talk from Steve Russell, President of JAARS, Inc.. From his early days as a youth pastor to serving as a lieutenant colonel in the U.S. Army, a state senator, and a U.S. Congressman, Steve’s leadership journey is nothing short of remarkable. Now at JAARS, he leads efforts to overcome the toughest logistical challenges—whether by air, land, or water. A big thank you to Steve for sharing his story and mission with us! #MBCLunch #Leadership #JAARS #MBCCharlotte

This morning at Project 658, we had the pleasure of hearing from Hans Grell, founder of Bright Audio Video LLC. Hans has had an incredible journey—born in Transylvania, raised in Germany as an electrician, and then making his way to the U.S. in 2004 as an au pair. From studying IT at CPCC and Queens to purchasing a company in 2012, Hans has grown Bright AV from 2 employees to 12, with locations in Pineville, NC, and Charleston, SC. His story is one of determination, adaptability, and entrepreneurial success! Thanks, Hans, for sharing your insights! #MBCLife #Entrepreneurship #BusinessGrowth

Today's MBC meeting featured an inspiring talk from Allen Cates, cofounder and managing partner at Argo Capital Partners, LLC. Allen took us on a journey—from growing up overseas to navigating the corporate world of big banks, to finally owning his own business and helping others succeed as a consultant. His insights on adaptability, leadership, and entrepreneurship were invaluable! Great conversation, great connections—just another day at MBC! #MBCCharlotte #BusinessLeadership #Networking #Entrepreneurship

This morning at MBC, we heard from an inspiring entrepreneur! Dave Duarte, Founder & CEO of Tailored Tickers, shared his entrepreneurial journey from college to successful business leader. His guiding principles—Abundance (there’s enough for everyone), Character (do what’s right, no shortcuts), and Competency (earn trust by solving complex problems)—have paved his path to success. A huge thank you to Dave for sharing his insights and reminding us that strong values lead to strong businesses! #MBCCharlotte #Entrepreneurship #BusinessSuccess

Today at MBC: Goal Setting for Success! This morning, we were inspired by Jim Dunn of BGW CPA, PLLC, Growth Services, who shared powerful insights on goal setting and how to make 2025 your best year ever. MBC members are no strangers to setting and achieving big goals. With 2 members featured in this year’s Charlotte Business Journal’s Fast 50 and multiple 7- and 8-digit exits among our members, it’s clear that ambition and focus are part of our DNA. Thank you, Jim, for helping us think bigger and aim higher! Here’s to crushing goals and reaching new heights in the year ahead. #MBCCharlotte #GoalSetting #BusinessGrowth #Fast50

This Morning at MBC, we were fortunate to have David Kostmayer, CPA from GBK Advisors, PLLC join us as our speaker! David shared invaluable insights on year-end tax planning for businesses, covering strategies to maximize savings and set the stage for a strong financial start to 2025. ?? Thank you, David, for your expertise and practical advice—it’s always a great day when we leave our meetings more informed and better prepared for success! #MBCCharlotte #TaxPlanning #BusinessGrowth #YearEndPreparation

This morning, the Metrolina Business Council welcomed Cassmer Ward as our guest speaker. Cass shared insights from his incredible entrepreneurial journey, highlighting the lessons learned along the way and how they shape his leadership today. As CFO of Intelligent Engineering Design, a residential structural engineering firm, and Consulting Partner at Nexagy, Cass emphasized the importance of innovation, adaptability, and strong financial stewardship in driving business success. It’s always inspiring to hear firsthand from leaders who are making an impact in their industries. Thank you, Cass, for an engaging and insightful presentation! #MBCCharlotte #BusinessLeadership #Entrepreneurship

Today, the Metrolina Business Council (MBC) welcomed Brent Cagle, Interim CEO for the Charlotte Area Transit System (CATS), to our morning meeting! Brent shared insights on the current and future state of CATS, diving into the pivotal role that mass transit plays in empowering communities. With a ridership of over 14 million and counting, CATS is transforming how Charlotte connects and grows. Thank you, Brent, for an engaging discussion on Charlotte’s transit future and its impact on our community! #MetrolinaBusinessCouncil #CharlotteTransit #CommunityEmpowerment

This morning, the Metrolina Business Council (MBC) had the pleasure of hearing from Randy Mitchell with VR Business Brokers | Mergers & Acquisitions, who spoke on the profound importance of Abraham Lincoln's Gettysburg Address. Randy emphasized how the simplicity and clarity of Lincoln’s speech still holds incredible impact today, reminding us of the power of concise and meaningful communication in shaping history and guiding our future. #MBC #Leadership #GettysburgAddress #PowerOfWords #RandyMitchell

We had the pleasure of welcoming David Erdman from Erdman Law PLLC as our speaker today! As a long-time member of the Metrolina Business Council, David shared his expertise on several common law issues that directly impact small business owners. His insights into legal considerations can help us navigate challenges and protect our businesses effectively. Thank you, David, for your valuable guidance and for being an integral part of our community! Stay tuned for our next meeting—we can’t wait to see you there! #MetrolinaBusinessCouncil #Networking #SmallBusiness #LegalInsights