Meet Travis Mills
Jim Ries of Offit Kurman interviews Travis Mills, owner-operator of Fully Promoted Aberdeen, Maryland, a branded apparel and promotional products company serving business owners and corporations. Travis explains how branded polos, quarter zips, and promotional items help businesses look professional and can support closing deals. He shares that he’s most proud of the company’s community-based approach as part of a larger franchise network. Travis says the next six months will focus on increasing visibility as the business approaches its two-year anniversary in September. He also reveals he served 21 years in the Coast Guard, including two tours in Iraq.
July 8, 2026
Meet Eric Barger
Jim Ries interviews Eric Barger, managing director at Bolton Talent, part of Bolton, which is a mid-size consulting firm with six practices covering the full HR and talent spectrum. Eric explains Bolton Talent is focused on leadership solutions and leadership/executive search, and says he’s most proud of building trust that leads to long-term, repeat client relationships. Looking ahead, he discusses delivering for clients while building new partnerships in a challenging labor market. Leaders are concerned about retention—especially keeping top talent. He also shares a personal story as a devoted Baltimore Orioles fan who caught an All-Star Game home run ball and later returned it to Trevor Story.
July 1, 2026
Meet Connie Cooper
Jim Ries of Offit Kurman interviews Connie Cooper, Executive Director of HOPE For All, a Christian ministry in Glen Burnie, Maryland that helps families lacking financial means obtain basic household needs such as furniture, housewares, linens, and clothing. HOPE For All serves Anne Arundel County and parts of lower Baltimore City by receiving community donations, meeting with families to identify needs, packing items from its warehouse, and delivering them. Connie describes additional clothing programs supporting the Anne Arundel County School System and individuals in crisis, including those experiencing homelessness or reentering after incarceration, with over 70 partner organizations referring clients. The ministry brings in additional funding through yard sales of non-essential donated items and is expanding its facility with added square footage to increase capacity.
June 17, 2026
Meet Michael Bresler
Jim Ries of Offit Kurman interviews Michael Bresler, founder and managing member of Broadheights, about how his firm helps organizations accelerate value or impact by identifying what to do more of, removing roadblocks, and redeploying freed-up time into higher-value work. Bresler emphasizes a human-first, process-first, responsible AI approach rooted in operational excellence. He shares pride in prioritizing authenticity, relationships, and reputation over short-term profit. Looking ahead, he notes 2026 speaking engagements and a shift from “AI first” to more intentional technology use. Michael also recounts growing up in a military family and testing early GM backup sensor adoption in 2001.
June 10, 2026
Meet Justin Lipsky
Jim Reis interviews Justin Lipsky, founder of First Link, about how his company provides supply chain and procurement services by connecting clients with vetted manufacturers primarily in China, Vietnam, India, and Southeast Asia. Lipsky explains that First Link focuses heavily on material procurement—serving end users such as construction, building materials, textiles, and hotel linens. They help companies reduce costs by going direct and cutting out intermediaries. He shares that he’s most proud of First Link’s open-minded approach to relationships and deal-making. Looking ahead, he discusses growth plans as a second-year company, including managing more regular supply, private labels, and multi-SKU, multi-country procurement for clients. Lipsky also describes his background in cross-cultural nonprofit work, time living in China, and involvement with Baltimore’s sister city exchange with Xiamen.
June 3, 2026
Meet Emma Lapp
Jim Ries interviews Emma Lapp, Managing Director at MB HomeCare, about the company’s in-home caregiving services in the Greater Baltimore area. Emma explains how MB HomeCare provides experienced CNAs and GNAs to help clients stay in their homes rather than move to nursing facilities. She shares pride in MB’s highly experienced team, with an average of 13 years per CNA. Looking ahead, Emma describes a major focus on expanded dementia training, citing Baltimore as the top U.S. city for dementia diagnoses. She also reveals her background as a farm kid with skills like shearing sheep and riding horses.
May 13, 2026
Meet Steve Barber
Jim Ries interviews Steve Barber, Managing Member of LevelUp Solution Services, about his company’s fractional CFO services. Steve explains that LevelUp Solution Services focuses on strategic financial leadership—planning and forecasting, treasury management, exit planning, and growth scenario planning. He outlines LevelUp’s target market as growth businesses roughly in the $5–10M revenue range up to $30–40M. The firm’s structured focus on nonprofits, trades and construction, and e-commerce. Steve shares he is most proud of learning from past rapid growth to grow steadily by taking the right clients. The next six months will focus on continued steady growth and long-term partnerships. He also reveals he is a Lego enthusiast with over 200 sets.
May 6, 2026
Meet Mike Gosse
Jim Ries interviews Mike Gosse, President of Blind Industries and Services of Maryland (BISM), about the organization’s mission since 1908 as Maryland’s largest employer of blind people and a provider of independence training and rehabilitation from youth through seniors. Mike shares pride in staff engagement, efforts to advance blind leadership within BISM, and expanded youth programming across the state. He outlines a six-month focus on growth in Maryland, including broader training reach and increased job and business opportunities. Mike also highlights BISM’s manufacturing work, including military jackets and uniforms, office supplies, and cleaning and paper products. Mike explains his own lifelong blindness and the importance of changing how people react to and employ blind individuals.
April 29, 2026
Meet Greg Pierce
Jim Ries interviews Greg Pierce, co-owner of Janda Florist, about how he and his wife Ellen unexpectedly acquired the longtime business in July 2025 after being loyal customers. Greg explains that Janda is a community institution with a strong reputation for quality flowers, gifts, and service. They see themselves as stewards as the third family owners. He highlights pride in loyal customers and an experienced team that handles day-to-day operations. Greg previews plans for Janda’s 50th anniversary, new products, and in-store events, describes the 2,000-square-foot shop’s wide range of gift items beyond flowers. An interesting fact about Greg is that he has played guitar since age three and once made a living as a musician.
April 22, 2026
Meet Diane Mentzer
Jim Ries interviews Diane Mentzer, COO Coach at Diane Integrates, about coaching COOs as they bring their CEO’s vision to life. Diane explains how isolating the COO role can be and shares how she draws on her experience to help COOs communicate effectively with visionary CEOs, manage a constant influx of ideas, handle tough conversations, and get teams to step up without rescuing them. Relieving her clients from overwhelm and helping them feel seen and heard (while enabling them to regain 5–10 hours per week, reduce hidden costs, and improve retention) are things she’s most proud of. To help CEOs & COOs strengthen their relationship so they can achieve sustainable growth she offered to share the toolkit she created to accompany her workshop (Download it for free here: CEO-COO Alignment Accelerator Toolkit). Diane’s fun facts include the secret behind her love of purple and an interesting connection between the CEO-COO dynamic and West Coast swing dancing.
April 8, 2026
Meet Wendy Elover
Jim Ries interviews Wendy Elover, a Joy and Clarity Strategist, about her coaching and consulting work with busy professionals and teams. Wendy explains that she doesn’t add more productivity systems; instead, she creates space for leaders to slow down, gain clarity on what matters, act with intention, and reduce friction. She shares pride in the ripple effects of clearer leadership, including shorter meetings and less stress carried into personal life. Wendy previews upcoming initiatives, including her book "Too Many Tabs Open: Finding Clarity When Everything Feels Important," a TEDx talk on time versus joy, and more interactive workshops and leadership speaking. She also reveals she is a recovering perfectionist and people pleaser whose own experience inspired her work.
March 25, 2026
Meet Geoff Lindsay
Jim Ries interviews Geoff Lindsay, Senior Sales Representative for the Mid-Atlantic at Kaiser Permanente, about what Kaiser does and what differentiates it from other health care insurance companies. Geoff explains his role working with large employers (50+ eligible employees) and broker partners to help control costs and claims, improve health outcomes, and deliver a better employee healthcare experience. He shares what he’s most proud of after five months at Kaiser, outlines the next six months focused on renewal planning and employer strategy discussions, and invites viewers to tour the Lutherville Timonium facility. Geoff also shares the soccer-inspired origin of his name.
March 18, 2026
Meet Patty Nyitra
Jim Ries interviews Patty Nyitrai of Senior Placements by Patty about her free service that helps Maryland families find assisted living, memory care, or retirement communities through assessments, tailored recommendations, and guided tours. Patty explains how her small, woman-owned team works without quotas, leverages relationships with communities statewide, and helps families understand costs and potential benefits. She also shares plans to expand beyond Harford County into Baltimore County.
March 11, 2026
Meet Julie Lewis
Jim Ries interviews Julie Lewis of Lewis Woodwork, a family business in Columbia, Maryland that hand-makes and engraves locally sourced maple, cherry, and walnut culinary boards for client gifts. Julie explains how businesses use their branded, personalized boards, highlights their all-natural oil, beeswax finish and board butter. Julie shares plans to expand into custom tables and butcher block/countertop projects in 2026.
March 4, 2026
Meet Jon Manekin
In this episode of Java with Jim, Jim Ries sits down with Jon Manekin, Founder of Falls Road Mushroom Company. Jon elaborates on how their urban farm in Hampden, Baltimore, repurposes agricultural waste to produce fresh gourmet mushrooms and utilizes byproducts for environmental projects. He shares the company's mission, growth plans, and the upcoming launch of a line of medicinal mushroom tinctures. Jon also discusses his transition from the commercial real estate industry and his passion for urban farming.
February 25, 2026
Meet Adam Joss
Join Jim Ries, Director of Business Development at Offit Kurman, as he sits down with Adam Joss, President of The Vertical Connection Carpet One. Learn about the diverse services offered by the company, which started in window treatments but now specializes primarily in carpet and flooring for both residential and commercial clients. Adam shares insights on what sets their company apart, which is their team culture. He also shares their vision for the next six months. Plus, get a personal glimpse into Adam's life, his love for the Orioles, and his family traditions. Don’t miss this insightful interview.
February 18, 2026
Meet Lori Connolly and Cheryl Hickox
Jim Ries, alongside special guests Cheryl Hickox and Lori Connolly announce and discuss the upcoming fourth annual nonprofit showcase. Scheduled for Wednesday, April 29th from 9 to 11 AM at Vehicles for Change in Halethorpe, Maryland, this event brings together nonprofit partners, business owners, and community leaders for a morning of conversation and connection. Learn what to expect and how to get involved in this exciting community event.
February 11, 2026
Meet James Fiore
Join Jim Ries, Director of Business Development at Offit Kurman, as he sits down with James Fiore, President of the Loyola School, in this episode of 'Java with Jim.' Discover how the Loyola School in Baltimore provides full scholarship opportunities for pre-K to fourth-grade students in underserved communities and learn about their impressive growth since its inception in 2019. Fiore discusses the school's expansion, and the school’s strategic plans. Plus, get to know a personal detail from Fiore as he shares a surprising fact about himself. Tune in for an inspiring conversation about education and community upliftment.
February 4, 2026
Meet Justin Kress
In this episode of 'Java with Jim,' Jim Ries sits down with Justin Kress, CEO of Just-In Home Care. Justin shares the inspiring story of how he started the company, which provides essential in-home care services for seniors in Maryland. Learn about the unique services they offer, the rapid growth of the company, and Justin's exciting future plans, including expanding operations to Georgia. Justin also opens up about his entrepreneurial spirit, past ambitions, and the role of a business coach in guiding his company towards a corporate structure. Don't miss Justin's fascinating background and his vision to keep seniors happy and healthy at home.
January 28, 2026
Meet Shan Cephas
Join Jim Ries, as he chats with Shan Cephas, District Manager at Insperity. Shan shares insights on how Insperity helps businesses optimize operations with comprehensive HR solutions, emphasizes the importance of fostering a strong company culture, and discusses their approach to growth and community engagement. Shan also reveals a fun personal fact about his fandom and large family. Don't miss this engaging conversation to learn how Insperity can support your business growth.
January 21, 2026
Meet Andy Schindling
In this episode of 'Java with Jim', Jim Ries from Offit Kurman interviews Andy Schindling, Founder and CEO of TCP Youth Empowerment. Andy shares the organization's mission to inspire and equip underserved youth in Northern Anne Arundel County. Highlights include details on their extensive programs spanning the school year and summer, their focus on character, confidence, and emotional intelligence, and the impactful projects led by middle schoolers to improve their community. Andy also discusses upcoming initiatives, his background, and the personal experiences that drive his passion for youth empowerment.
January 14, 2026
Meet Pat Isaac
Join Jim Ries, in this episode of Java with Jim as he engages in an insightful conversation with Pat Isaac, CEO of Capital Services. Pat discusses the unique approach of Capital Services in solving root problems in HR, employee benefits, and executive compensation. She also shares inspirational stories and future plans for the company, along with a fun fact about her past as a lead singer in a rock band. Tune in to learn what sets Capital Services apart in the industry and how they're making a real difference in the lives of employees.
January 7, 2026
Meet Susan Greco
Join Jim Ries from Offit Kurman as he interviews Susan Greco, CEO of Total Senior Solutions, in this episode of Java with Jim. Susan shares how Total Senior Solutions, a full-service move management company, assists seniors and their families with downsizing, packing, moving, and more. Learn about Susan's unique qualifications, her approach to building strong relationships, and the company's future plans. Plus, discover a personal story that exemplifies Susan's dedication and perseverance.
December 17, 2025
Meet Jeremy Robbins
In this episode of 'Java with Jim', Jim Ries, Director of Business Development at Offit Kurman, sits down with Jeremy Robbins, CEO of Krav Maga Maryland. They discuss how Krav Maga Maryland differentiates itself with a layered self-defense approach, focusing on corporate safety, less lethal options, home defense plans, and firearms training. Robbins shares a story of successful self-defense encounter and outlines future expansion plans, including promoting their association with Byrna technology. Jeremy also reveals his passion for writing a monthly safety blog aimed at educating individuals on topics such as holiday safety and back-to-school precautions.
December 10, 2025
Meet Melissa Allen
In this episode of Java with Jim, Jim Ries speaks with Melissa Allen, the CEO of University Technical Services (UTS). Melissa shares the unique history of UTS, its transformation over the years, and the company's focus on cable and fiber infrastructure in data centers. She highlights the loyalty and dedication of UTS employees, the company's recent rebranding efforts, and her vision for the next six months aimed at growth and creating jobs. Melissa also shares her personal passion for building and refinishing furniture, drawing a parallel to her role in transforming UTS. Tune in to learn more about UTS and Melissa's inspiring leadership journey.
November 26, 2025
Meet Chris Haley
In this outdoor edition of Java with Jim, Jim Ries from Offit Kurman sits down with Chris Haley, founder of B'More Padel. Chris shares insights into the inception and mission of B'More Padel, a unique business promoting the sport of padel in Baltimore. Discover how they offer courts for lease and are opening a new club in Pikesville, Maryland. Chris discusses the company's long-term vision, their focus on social and business connections, and his gratitude for the relationships they've built. Don't miss the fun padel play at the end, highlighting their commitment to the community and support for military veterans.
November 5, 2025
Meet Daniel Warner
Join Jim Ries, Director of Business Development at Offit Kurman, as he chats with Daniel Warner, President of Structural Restoration Services (SRS), about SRS's unique approach to masonry and concrete restoration in the Baltimore area. Daniel shares insights into the company's reputation for quality, upcoming plans, and a personal story about his late brother's leadership philosophy inspired by 'crazy socks'. Learn more about the role Daniel's team plays in restoring high-rise buildings, historical sites, and more as they continue to grow and give back to the community.
October 15, 2025
Meet Aaron Wilkins, Senior Vice President at Human-I-T
Join Jim Ries, Director of Business Development at Offit Kurman, as he interviews Aaron Wilkins, CFO of Human-I-T. They discuss the unique role Human-I-T plays in addressing e-waste and digital equity. Aaron outlines how the organization repurposes electronic devices to provide low-income families and individuals with access to technology, internet, technical support, and digital literacy. Learn about the incredible impact Human-I-T has made, with over 523,000 devices distributed and 15.1 million pounds of e-waste diverted from landfills. Aaron also shares exciting news about his upcoming venture, Move Wise, aimed at simplifying the home buying process. Don't miss this compelling episode on innovative solutions making a social and environmental difference.
September 23, 2025
Meet Tracy Broccolino
Join host of Java with Jim, Jim Ries as he interviews Tracy Broccolino, President of the Community Action Council of Howard County. Discover how Tracy and her team are making a difference through food assistance, early childhood education, and community support. Learn about their latest initiatives and get inspired by stories of impact and hope!
September 17, 2025
Meet Steve Ator
Join Jim Ries, Director of Business Development at Offit Kurman, as he sits down with Steve Ator, Owner of Dill Dinkers of Cockeysville. Steve shares his journey from corporate America to owning an indoor pickleball venue, emphasizing the importance of community and family. Celebrating nearly one year in business, Steve talks about the growth of Dill Dinkers, including their 500+ annual members and the franchise of the year award. Discover how Steve's passion for sports, especially pickleball, is fostering a vibrant, welcoming environment. Stay tuned to learn what's next for Dill Dinkers and Steve's personal insights as a lifelong sports enthusiast and business owner.
August 27, 2025
Java with Jim
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