Keeping The Dream Alive

Torch Technologies
  • 4.9 (11)
  • MANAGEMENT
  • UPDATED BIWEEKLY

Welcome to The Keeping the Dream Alive Podcast brought to you by Torch Technologies. In this podcast, you will learn all about all things Torch from its history to its culture, employee ownership, commitment to the warfighter, our community involvement, and so much more.

  1. 6D AGO

    Episode 53: Enterprise Program Management with Amanda Clark

    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. 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/

    12 min

  2. DEC 3

    Episode 52: Artificial Intelligence with Joe Pierce

    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. 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/

    10 min

  3. OCT 22

    Episode 51: Air Force Weapons Group with Sam Burkett

    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. 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/

    16 min

  4. OCT 8

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

    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 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/

    8 min

  5. SEP 10

    Episode 49: Freedom Advisory Services with Tyce Hudson

    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. 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/

    13 min

  6. AUG 27

    Episode 48: Allocation & Distribution with Cindy Walz

    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. 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/

    12 min

  7. AUG 6

    Episode 47: Vesting & Diversification with Cindy Walz

    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. 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/

    11 min

  8. JUL 23

    Episode 46: Understanding ESOP Valuation with Bill Roark

    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. 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/

    12 min
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Ratings & Reviews

4.9
out of 5
11 Ratings

About

Welcome to The Keeping the Dream Alive Podcast brought to you by Torch Technologies. In this podcast, you will learn all about all things Torch from its history to its culture, employee ownership, commitment to the warfighter, our community involvement, and so much more.

Information

  • Creator
    Torch Technologies
  • Years Active
    2022 - 2025
  • Episodes
    53
  • Rating
    Clean
  • Copyright
    © 2025 Keeping The Dream Alive
  • Show Website
    Keeping The Dream Alive