Orange County Power Players
Orange County Power Players is the go-to podcast for uncovering the personal, professional, and financial success stories of Orange County’s most influential leaders. Hosted by Danny Flores, this show dives deep into the journeys of business owners, professionals, and C-suite executives who are shaping the future of OC. Whether you’re looking for inspiration, actionable advice, or a glimpse into the lives of those at the top, Orange County Power Players delivers powerful insights in every episode. Tune in to learn from the best and discover what it takes to succeed in the competitive landscape of Southern California.
Episodes

2 hours ago
2 hours ago
In this episode, Danny Flores sits down with legal leaders Todd Wilkowski and Holly Gilani to explore how Frost Brown Todd is redefining the legal landscape with a client-centered, national team. Holly, based in Newport Beach, shares her experience transitioning her boutique trust and corporate litigation firm into a larger platform without sacrificing personalized service. Todd, zooming in from Cincinnati, unpacks their innovative Outside General Counsel (OGC) model, which supports businesses of all sizes—from early-stage ventures to family-owned enterprises ready to scale.
They dive deep into:
How the OGC model works and why it’s transforming legal partnerships
The critical legal needs of growing companies—and when to bring in legal counsel
How Frost Brown Todd’s collaborative, nationwide bench of attorneys supports every facet of business law
Real-life stories of impact, including a startup supported from pre-revenue through expansion
If you're an entrepreneur, business owner, or just curious about modern legal services, this episode offers a rare peek into a law firm's strategic approach to partnership, technology, and growth.
------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------- Be Our Next Guest! Interested in sharing your success story with a wide audience of local leaders and influencers? "Orange County Power Players" is looking for guests like you—successful, insightful, and ready to tell the world how you've made your mark. Here’s why you should consider joining host Danny Flores on our next episode: Ready to Share Your Story? Click below to fill out a short questionnaire and book your interview time. We can’t wait to spotlight your journey! https://ocpowerplayers.com/guest

2 days ago
2 days ago
In this episode, host Danny Flores sits down with Brandon Kordower, the founder and CEO of Aura, a strategic advisory firm that specializes in helping marketing agencies grow smart by harnessing the power of financial data. Brandon breaks down how creative entrepreneurs can scale with confidence using project-based accounting and strategic financial planning.
You'll hear Brandon’s honest insights on what it takes to grow from $1 million to $10 million in revenue, and why accurate data—not just gut instinct—is critical to building a sustainable business. From hitting his own leadership ceiling to joining EO and building a resilient team, Brandon shares practical strategies and hard-won lessons every agency owner should hear.
What You’ll Learn in This Episode:
The financial blind spots most agencies face after hitting 7 figures
Why time tracking can unlock hidden insights about your margins
How to grow a team culture that promotes longevity and high performance
Brandon’s journey from car detailing to CFO consulting
What it means to work on your business, not in it
How Brandon built a path to 8-figure growth with paid ads and strategic planning
--------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------- Be Our Next Guest! Interested in sharing your success story with a wide audience of local leaders and influencers? "Orange County Power Players" is looking for guests like you—successful, insightful, and ready to tell the world how you've made your mark. Here’s why you should consider joining host Danny Flores on our next episode: Ready to Share Your Story? Click below to fill out a short questionnaire and book your interview time. We can’t wait to spotlight your journey! https://ocpowerplayers.com/guest

3 days ago
3 days ago
In this episode, Danny sits down with Texas-based real estate investor Brian Ferguson, who unpacks nearly two decades of investing experience. Brian started out in single-family homes and grew into large-scale multifamily and retail property syndications. He talks about the evolution of his business model, why he shifted focus to retail centers, and how he makes real estate syndications profitable for investors.
You'll hear a deep dive into the differences between managing and acquiring multifamily versus retail properties, the realities of property taxes in Texas, and how syndications can be a smart passive investment with potential tax benefits. Brian also shares some hard-won lessons on scaling a business, building the right team, and operational efficiencies that make his company stand out in the industry.
About the Guest:Brian Ferguson is the founder of Fergmar Holdings and Fergmar Capital, based in Victoria, Texas. With over 18 years in real estate, Brian is passionate about helping others achieve financial freedom through real estate syndications. His team focuses on multifamily and retail acquisitions across Texas.
--------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------- Be Our Next Guest! Interested in sharing your success story with a wide audience of local leaders and influencers? "Orange County Power Players" is looking for guests like you—successful, insightful, and ready to tell the world how you've made your mark. Here’s why you should consider joining host Danny Flores on our next episode: Ready to Share Your Story? Click below to fill out a short questionnaire and book your interview time. We can’t wait to spotlight your journey! https://ocpowerplayers.com/guest

Thursday Apr 24, 2025
Thursday Apr 24, 2025
What happens when a full-time cancer doctor also becomes a commercial real estate powerhouse? In this episode of the Orange County Power Players Podcast, host Danny Flores sits down with Dr. Sanjay Sharma—an inspiring husband, father, hematologist, oncologist, and real estate syndicator.
Dr. Sharma shares how he’s successfully blended a demanding medical career with a thriving real estate investment business. With a portfolio that spans Los Angeles, Orange County, Atlanta, and Philadelphia—and over $90 million in investments—Dr. Sharma dives into why he pivoted into real estate, how he helps high-net-worth individuals (especially fellow physicians), and why partnerships and purpose drive everything he does.
He also doesn’t shy away from the challenges of investing in California, discussing the headaches of bureaucracy and rent control, and why despite it all, Orange County remains a hot market.
What You’ll Learn in This Episode:
How Dr. Sharma balances life as a physician and a real estate investor
What drew him to real estate and away from the stock market
Why partnerships are key in large-scale developments
Challenges of investing in California real estate—and how he overcomes them
What makes the Midwest an appealing investment market today
How Titan 3 Capital is helping physicians build wealth and community impact
--------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------- Be Our Next Guest! Interested in sharing your success story with a wide audience of local leaders and influencers? "Orange County Power Players" is looking for guests like you—successful, insightful, and ready to tell the world how you've made your mark. Here’s why you should consider joining host Danny Flores on our next episode: Ready to Share Your Story? Click below to fill out a short questionnaire and book your interview time. We can’t wait to spotlight your journey! https://ocpowerplayers.com/guest

Wednesday Apr 23, 2025
"The Evolution to Telehealth" with Matthew Wiseman
Wednesday Apr 23, 2025
Wednesday Apr 23, 2025
In this episode of the Orange County Power Players Podcast with Danny Flores, we dive into the future of healthcare with Matthew Wiseman, Vice President of Sales at Bright Meds. Matthew shares how Bright Meds is transforming patient care through innovative telehealth solutions—making medications more accessible, convenient, and effective.
Discover how GLP-1 compounds like Ozempic and Tirzepatide are not only aiding in weight loss but also improving blood sugar levels and mood stability. Matthew explains Bright Meds' unique customer acquisition process, the company’s dedication to personalized care, and how they maintain a stellar 4.8 Trustpilot rating without paid reviews.
Matthew also opens up about the challenges he faced during COVID-19, how it reshaped his career path, and why embracing change and investing in your future is key to success. Whether you're a patient, provider, or simply curious about how telehealth is reshaping the healthcare industry, this episode is packed with valuable insights.
--------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------- Be Our Next Guest! Interested in sharing your success story with a wide audience of local leaders and influencers? "Orange County Power Players" is looking for guests like you—successful, insightful, and ready to tell the world how you've made your mark. Here’s why you should consider joining host Danny Flores on our next episode: Ready to Share Your Story? Click below to fill out a short questionnaire and book your interview time. We can’t wait to spotlight your journey! https://ocpowerplayers.com/guest

Tuesday Apr 22, 2025
"Fundraising for Miracle Babies" with Erin Kaufman
Tuesday Apr 22, 2025
Tuesday Apr 22, 2025
In this heartwarming and inspiring episode, Danny sits down with Erin Kaufman, the passionate Executive Director of Miracle Babies, a nonprofit committed to helping families with infants in the Neonatal Intensive Care Unit (NICU). Erin shares how Miracle Babies provides transportation, mental health support, and care packages—free of charge—to families navigating one of the most difficult journeys of their lives.
We dive into the nuts and bolts of how Miracle Babies operates, how Erin and her team fundraise through events like their 5K walk and “Breakfast at Tiffany’s” gala, and what their goals are for expanding into Orange County. Erin’s insights into nonprofit leadership, her dedication to community partnerships, and her compassion for families in crisis make this a must-listen episode.
Key Topics:
The origin and mission of Miracle Babies
How free transportation helps NICU families
The emotional toll on parents and how Miracle Babies offers mental health support
Fundraising through events and donor engagement
Expansion plans and how listeners can help
--------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------- Be Our Next Guest! Interested in sharing your success story with a wide audience of local leaders and influencers? "Orange County Power Players" is looking for guests like you—successful, insightful, and ready to tell the world how you've made your mark. Here’s why you should consider joining host Danny Flores on our next episode: Ready to Share Your Story? Click below to fill out a short questionnaire and book your interview time. We can’t wait to spotlight your journey! https://ocpowerplayers.com/guest

Thursday Apr 17, 2025
"The Intersection of AI & Human Intellegence" with Diane Weaver
Thursday Apr 17, 2025
Thursday Apr 17, 2025
In this thought-provoking episode, host Danny Flores sits down with Diane Weaver, a 5th-generation entrepreneur and co-founder of Barion’s AI, to explore how human intelligence and artificial intelligence can work together to shape a better future. Diane shares how growing up between vastly different worlds led to her passion for innovation and language, and how that foundation shaped her work in adaptive, AI-driven technology.
Diane discusses the evolution of AI from automation to hyper-personalization to today’s generative AI—and what makes this wave so different. She breaks down how Barion’s voice-enabled, persona-driven mentors help people navigate workplace change and cognitive overload in the Intelligence Age.
From redefining work in a post-AI world to empowering individuals through agentic transformation, this episode is packed with insights for professionals, entrepreneurs, and tech lovers alike.
Guest BioDiane Weaver is an innovator at the intersection of artificial intelligence and human insight. As co-founder of Barion’s AI, she builds tools that make adapting to a post-AI world feel intuitive, empowering, and deeply human. With roots in education tech and a passion for meaningful design, Diane’s mission is to create smart, simple solutions to complex challenges.
--------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------- Be Our Next Guest! Interested in sharing your success story with a wide audience of local leaders and influencers? "Orange County Power Players" is looking for guests like you—successful, insightful, and ready to tell the world how you've made your mark. Here’s why you should consider joining host Danny Flores on our next episode: Ready to Share Your Story? Click below to fill out a short questionnaire and book your interview time. We can’t wait to spotlight your journey! https://ocpowerplayers.com/guest

Wednesday Apr 16, 2025
"From Marine to Aerospace & Defense Entrepreneur" with David Dickey
Wednesday Apr 16, 2025
Wednesday Apr 16, 2025
In this episode of Orange County Power Players, Danny Flores sits down with David Dickey, a seasoned entrepreneur and Marine Corps veteran who's now making waves in aerospace and defense recruiting. Based in Huntington Beach, David shares how his military experience shaped his leadership style and how he built a thriving recruitment agency, The Patriot Group, from the ground up.
David opens up about his journey from the military to the business world, what it takes to build trust with clients, and how to help companies find top-tier talent in a fast-moving and competitive industry. He also discusses AI’s role in aerospace innovation, the challenges startups face with funding, and what job seekers can do to stand out in today’s market.
Key Takeaways:
The transition from military life to entrepreneurship
The rise of AI and its impact on aerospace and defense
How The Patriot Group helps companies fill hard-to-find roles
Tips for young professionals entering the industry
Advice for entrepreneurs on securing funding and staying resilient
---------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------- Be Our Next Guest! Interested in sharing your success story with a wide audience of local leaders and influencers? "Orange County Power Players" is looking for guests like you—successful, insightful, and ready to tell the world how you've made your mark. Here’s why you should consider joining host Danny Flores on our next episode: Ready to Share Your Story? Click below to fill out a short questionnaire and book your interview time. We can’t wait to spotlight your journey! https://ocpowerplayers.com/guest

Tuesday Apr 15, 2025
"Global Executive Coaching" with Scharrell Jackson
Tuesday Apr 15, 2025
Tuesday Apr 15, 2025
In this inspiring episode of the Orange County Power Players Podcast, Danny Flores sits down with Scharrell Jackson, an electrifying force in leadership development. From her roots as a corporate CFO and COO to a globe-trotting coach and speaker, Scharrell shares how she made the leap from a secure W-2 career into entrepreneurship—and what it truly takes to thrive.
Scharrell opens up about:
Her journey from boardroom leadership to global coaching
The fear that comes with big transitions—and how to let fear have a voice, not a vote
What “endgame excellence” means, and how to define your own
Why clarity—not goals—is the real key to transformation
How entrepreneurs can stabilize income and scale their impact
Packed with heartfelt stories, business insights, and powerful takeaways, this episode is for anyone ready to level up their life, career, or business with bold, intentional decisions.
---------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------- Be Our Next Guest! Interested in sharing your success story with a wide audience of local leaders and influencers? "Orange County Power Players" is looking for guests like you—successful, insightful, and ready to tell the world how you've made your mark. Here’s why you should consider joining host Danny Flores on our next episode: Ready to Share Your Story? Click below to fill out a short questionnaire and book your interview time. We can’t wait to spotlight your journey! https://ocpowerplayers.com/guest

Thursday Apr 10, 2025
"From FBI to Creating Financial Apps" with Mitchell Morrison
Thursday Apr 10, 2025
Thursday Apr 10, 2025
In this fascinating episode of The Orange County Power Players Podcast, host Danny Flores welcomes Mitchell Morrison, a former FBI agent turned fintech entrepreneur. Mitchell shares stories from his time working counterintelligence during the Cold War and how those experiences shaped his career in finance and technology.
Now the founder of Eyeballs Financial and creator of the innovative FinTalk and GetVotes apps, Mitchell discusses how AI is transforming the way people interact with financial advisors and political campaigns. The FinTalk app simplifies financial education and statement analysis, especially for underserved communities, while GetVotes empowers political candidates with advanced outreach and data collection tools—available in over 100 languages.
They dive into the challenges of bridging high-security communication in finance, building patented technology, and his vision for 2025: bringing smart, secure financial tools to millions.
---------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------- Be Our Next Guest! Interested in sharing your success story with a wide audience of local leaders and influencers? "Orange County Power Players" is looking for guests like you—successful, insightful, and ready to tell the world how you've made your mark. Here’s why you should consider joining host Danny Flores on our next episode: Ready to Share Your Story? Click below to fill out a short questionnaire and book your interview time. We can’t wait to spotlight your journey! https://ocpowerplayers.com/guest