Meet Our Members
Professional Exchange Network
President
Bob Kadan, CRB, has represented buyers and sellers throughout Southern California for more than 30 years and has consistently ranked among the top 1% of real estate professionals in sales performance. A longtime resident of Coto de Caza since 1992, Bob is known for his deep market knowledge, strong negotiation skills, and calm, strategic approach to every transaction. Clients value his honest communication, careful preparation, and commitment to protecting their interests from the first meeting through closing.
Bob’s experience includes helping sellers position and price homes effectively while guiding buyers through competitive market conditions with confidence and discipline. He earned the Certified Real Estate Brokerage Manager designation early in his career, reflecting advanced professional training in brokerage leadership and real estate practice. Before real estate, Bob was a teacher and coach both locally and internationally, a background that continues to shape his patient, focused, and professional approach to serving clients and building lasting relationships.
Professional Exchange Network
Vice-President
Bob Kadan, CRB, has represented buyers and sellers throughout Southern California for more than 30 years and has consistently ranked among the top 1% of real estate professionals in sales performance. A longtime resident of Coto de Caza since 1992, Bob is known for his deep market knowledge, strong negotiation skills, and calm, strategic approach to every transaction. Clients value his honest communication, careful preparation, and commitment to protecting their interests from the first meeting through closing.
Bob’s experience includes helping sellers position and price homes effectively while guiding buyers through competitive market conditions with confidence and discipline. He earned the Certified Real Estate Brokerage Manager designation early in his career, reflecting advanced professional training in brokerage leadership and real estate practice. Before real estate, Bob was a teacher and coach both locally and internationally, a background that continues to shape his patient, focused, and professional approach to serving clients and building lasting relationships.
Professional Exchange Network
Program Director
David C. Duncan Insurance Services, Inc. is a boutique, family-owned independent insurance agency that has proudly served the Rancho Santa Margarita community since 2006. Founded by David Duncan, who brings more than 30 years of insurance industry experience, the agency is known for providing personalized guidance, trusted expertise, and insurance solutions tailored to each client’s unique needs. Their commitment to exceptional service and long-term client relationships has made them a trusted local resource for families, homeowners, and business professionals throughout Southern California.
The agency specializes in Auto and Homeowners Insurance while also offering a wide range of additional coverage options, including Personal Umbrella, Motorcycle, RV, Watercraft, Classic Car, Earthquake, and Landlord policies. By combining local knowledge with individualized attention, David C. Duncan Insurance Services helps clients feel informed, protected, and confident that the people and assets most important to them are properly covered for the future.
License # 0B71283
Professional Exchange Network
Member at Large
Secure Financial Insurance Services, Inc.
Mark Ambrose
Secure Financial Insurance Services is a trusted full-service insurance brokerage dedicated to helping individuals, families, and businesses protect their financial future with confidence. The company specializes in customized Health, Dental, Vision, Life, and Disability insurance solutions tailored to each client’s unique needs and goals. Through personalized guidance and responsive service, Secure Financial Insurance Services helps clients make informed decisions while building long-term financial security.
In addition to insurance planning, the firm offers access to a variety of financial and investment products through SA Stone Wealth Management Inc., including Mutual Funds, Variable Annuities, Variable Life Insurance, and 529 College Savings Plans. Their mission is to provide trusted expertise, exceptional customer care, and smart financial strategies that help clients protect their families, grow wealth, and plan confidently for the future.
Professional Exchange Network
Treasurer
ProSmiles OC is led by Dr. Ivan Ho, who has proudly served the same Orange County community for more than 30 years. Known for his compassionate and personalized approach, Dr. Ho has built long-standing relationships with patients based on trust, consistency, and quality care. His practice is intentionally small, allowing him to spend meaningful time with each patient and create a welcoming environment where patients are treated like family. In addition to caring for patients, Dr. Ho serves as a Clinical Instructor at the UCLA School of Dentistry, where he mentors future dentists and remains current with the latest advancements in modern dentistry.
Dr. Ho specializes in dental implants, cosmetic veneers, Invisalign, and full-arch restorations such as All-on-X procedures, with a focus on creating natural-looking, long-lasting results while maintaining a comfortable patient experience. He is also committed to giving back through volunteer work with the Give Back a Smile Foundation, helping provide dental care to those in need. Outside of the office, Dr. Ho enjoys cycling, skiing, fitness, and staying active.
Professional Exchange Network
Ambassador
Meet Curt Stanley, PEN’s new Ambassador and one of the welcoming faces of our group.
After many successful years in business, Curt is now retired and has chosen to dedicate his time, energy, and experience to helping PEN grow and thrive.
Curt is kind, approachable, positive, and genuinely enjoys bringing people together. As PEN Ambassador, he will help welcome guests, support members, create connections, and represent the warm and friendly personality of our networking group.
With years of experience building relationships and working with business owners, Curt understands the importance of trust, community, and meaningful connections. He brings that same enthusiasm and personal touch to PEN.
You’ll see Curt greeting guests, helping new members feel comfortable, encouraging connections, and making sure everyone feels welcome.
We are excited to have Curt step into this role and become the face and personality of PEN, helping make our group an even stronger and more connected business community.v
Professional Exchange Network
Director of Recruiting
Tatiana Galeas, MBA, CTEC is the founder of Green Owl Consulting, where she specializes in supporting new and small businesses with personalized bookkeeping and business services. With a practical, client-centered approach, Tatiana helps entrepreneurs stay organized, compliant, and confident in their finances. Backed by years of corporate experience and hands-on work with business owners, she simplifies complex financial processes and provides clear, actionable guidance year-round—not just during tax season.
Tatiana is committed to building long-term relationships through reliable service, strategic insight, and responsive communication. She takes the time to understand each client’s unique needs, offering solutions that support both immediate challenges and future growth. Whether guiding a startup or assisting a growing business, Tatiana and Green Owl Consulting empower clients to make informed decisions, gain financial clarity, and focus on building a strong, sustainable foundation for success.
Lawrence A. Strid brings more than 47 years of legal experience representing clients throughout Southern California, with a primary focus on personal injury law. Over the course of his career, he has successfully handled more than 3,500 personal injury cases and claims involving vehicular accidents, premises negligence, assault, and dog attacks. Known for his responsiveness, professionalism, and client-focused approach, Lawrence is committed to helping individuals navigate difficult legal situations with clarity, compassion, and strong advocacy.
In addition to personal injury matters, Lawrence assists clients in a wide range of civil law and litigation issues, including collection matters, Civil Harassment, Elder Abuse, and Domestic Violence Restraining Orders, legal malpractice, attorney-client fee disputes, contractor-homeowner conflicts, HOA disputes, and general business litigation. Initial consultations are provided at no charge, and phone calls and email inquiries are answered promptly. If a matter falls outside his area of practice, Lawrence is always willing to help connect clients with a qualified attorney who can best assist with their legal needs.
Merino Transportation is a family-owned and operated transportation company that has proudly served the Southern Orange County community for more than 10 years. Founded by Hugo and Gabriela Merino in December 2015, the company has built a strong reputation for dependable service, professionalism, and a genuine commitment to customer care. Their passion for creating a safe, reliable, and comfortable transportation experience has earned the trust and appreciation of clients throughout the community.
Merino Transportation specializes in providing seamless and stress-free travel solutions tailored to the needs of both individuals and businesses. Services include airport transportation, corporate and business event shuttles, wedding and special event transportation, and other private transportation needs. Understanding that travel can often be stressful and time-consuming, their team focuses on making every ride smooth, efficient, and enjoyable from start to finish. With safety, reliability, and exceptional service at the center of everything they do, Merino Transportation is dedicated to delivering a first-class experience for every client.
HealthSource Chiropractic of Ladera Ranch is led by Dr. David Manago, a spine specialist with more than 40 years of clinical experience helping patients address spinal conditions at their source. Known for his precise and gentle approach, Dr. Manago utilizes corrective chiropractic techniques that require minimal pressure rather than traditional forceful manipulation. His patient-centered philosophy focuses on identifying the underlying cause of pain and discomfort while helping patients achieve long-term healing, improved mobility, and overall spinal wellness.
Dr. Manago’s practice specializes in disc rehabilitation, post-surgical recovery support, auto accident injuries, sports injuries, and chronic neck and back pain for patients of all ages. In addition to his extensive clinical work, he has authored educational writings focused on spinal health and corrective care, helping patients better understand the importance of proper spinal function and natural healing. Through personalized treatment plans and compassionate care, Dr. Manago is committed to helping patients feel better, move better, and maintain healthier lives naturally.
Essie Bourke, CMT, CST | Chaos to Clarity LLC
Craniosacral Therapy South Orange County
When the body holds onto pain, stress, or trauma longer than it should, Essie Bourke listens — literally. As a certified craniosacral therapist trained through the internationally respected Upledger Institute, she works with the central nervous system using gentle, precise touch to help the body release what it has been carrying — always at the client's own pace, never forced.
Craniosacral therapy reaches where other modalities cannot. Working directly with the brain and spinal cord's surrounding membranes, cranial bone mobility, and the body's own bioelectric rhythms, it addresses the root of conditions that often persist despite massage, physical therapy, or chiropractic care — including chronic pain, PTSD and anxiety, post-concussion syndrome, TMJ, migraines, and nervous systems stuck in permanent overdrive.
Essie brings an unusually refined capacity for stillness and deep listening — qualities that make her clients feel genuinely heard before a word is spoken.
Serving the South Orange County area, in-office and mobile.
Not So Hostel World was founded by Christopher Snell, a passionate traveler and travel advisor dedicated to creating exciting, meaningful, and stress-free travel experiences. Having explored more than 80 countries across six continents, Christopher brings firsthand knowledge, global perspective, and real-world travel insight to every itinerary he designs. He launched the agency in 2022 after recognizing that many travelers want unique and memorable experiences but often feel overwhelmed by the endless options and planning involved in modern travel. Since then, he has built a loyal client base by providing personalized guidance, thoughtful planning, and exceptional service.
Christopher is a Certified Travel Advisor through The Travel Institute and an Accredited Cruise Counselor through CLIA, combining professional expertise with a genuine passion for exploration. His background in political science, economics, and technology supports his organized and analytical approach to travel planning. Outside of work, Christopher enjoys camper van road trips, scuba diving, and discovering great food with his wife, Tracy. He is always excited to help clients create unforgettable travel experiences around the world.
FLEX CPA
Adam Moore, CPA
Certified Public Accountant brings more than 15 years of experience across public accounting, corporate accounting, consulting, and accounting education. This diverse professional background provides a comprehensive understanding of financial operations, compliance, strategic planning, and business management across a wide range of industries. Known for a strong commitment to integrity, accuracy, and transparency, they provide clients with practical financial guidance that is both clear and easy to understand.
Their approach focuses on more than simply preparing financial reports or tax returns—they believe in educating clients so they can feel informed, confident, and empowered when making important financial and accounting decisions. By taking the time to understand each client’s unique goals and challenges, they develop personalized strategies and long-term solutions tailored to individual and business needs. Passionate about simplifying complex financial matters, they are committed to building trusted relationships and serving as a dependable advisor clients can rely on year after year.
Sharon was introduced to Juice Plus more than 25 years ago by her hairdresser during a time when she realized she was not getting enough fruits and vegetables in her daily routine. Curious to improve her health, she decided to try the product and quickly began noticing positive changes, including clearer skin, improved digestion, and relief from frequent headaches. Even her husband noticed a significant difference after years of watching her struggle with adult acne and other health concerns.
Motivated by her personal results, Sharon began sharing Juice Plus with others simply because she wanted to help people feel healthier and feel their best naturally. What started as a personal wellness journey eventually grew into a successful business opportunity, allowing her to leave her 23-year career in dental assisting within just two years. Today, Sharon remains passionate about encouraging simple, consistent habits that support long-term health while mentoring and supporting others who want to share wellness and make a positive impact in their communities.
Belle Jeunesse is a premier medical aesthetics and wellness practice that has proudly served South Orange County for more than 10 years. Led by Dr. Valeh Karimkhani and Candy Carlsen, RN, the practice is dedicated to helping clients look and feel their best through personalized, results-driven care. Belle Jeunesse specializes in hormone optimization, medically supervised weight loss, aesthetic rejuvenation, and customized wellness solutions designed to fit each patient’s unique lifestyle, health goals, and individual needs.
The practice focuses on enhancing natural beauty while supporting long-term health, confidence, and vitality. Known for combining advanced medical expertise with compassionate, patient-centered care, the Belle Jeunesse team works closely with busy professionals seeking natural-looking results in a welcoming and professional environment. Whether clients want to improve energy levels, restore hormonal balance, refresh their appearance, or support overall wellness, Belle Jeunesse provides tailored treatment plans that help patients achieve optimal health, renewed confidence, and lasting well-being.
Neil Negrete is an associate attorney at Bohm Wildish & Matsen, focusing on trust administration, probate, trust petitions, and estate planning. He has extensive experience guiding trustees through the postmortem administration process and has assisted with the administration of more than one hundred trusts. Neil has also successfully obtained judgments for trust petitions and probate matters across multiple California counties, including Los Angeles, Orange, Riverside, Sacramento, San Diego, San Mateo, and San Bernardino.
In addition to his probate and trust administration work, Neil helps individuals and families create thoughtful estate plans designed to preserve wealth and protect future generations. He has experience drafting both simple and complex estate planning documents tailored to each client’s unique goals and circumstances. Clients appreciate Neil’s attention to detail, professionalism, and ability to simplify complicated legal matters while providing practical guidance and peace of mind throughout the estate planning and administration process.
Carpenter, Petersen & Associates, CPA’s
A Limited Liability Partnership
John Carpenter, CPA and his firm, Carpenter, Petersen & Associates, CPA’s has been successfully providing tax, accounting and audit services to California and multi-state businesses, individuals, entrepreneurs and investors for over 40 years. The firm is led by seasoned CPA’s with over 100 years of combined experience and backed by a full complement of associates with many years of experience in the public accounting profession.
From advanced tax planning and preparation for individuals, business entities, and trusts and estates, our team of experienced professionals is ready to provide solutions to many of your most pressing tax and compliance problems that are too complex for the individual taxpayer or business to address on their own and be able to assure an accurate and optimal result.
Susan R. Medwied
Attorney at Law
Susan R. Medwied is an experienced attorney serving privately held businesses and their owners throughout Orange County and the Inland Empire. With a commitment to personalized service and practical legal solutions, Susan helps clients navigate complex legal matters with clarity, professionalism, and attention to detail. Her approach focuses on understanding each client's unique situation and providing guidance that helps further their goals while protecting their interests.
Based in Rancho Santa Margarita, Susan is known for her responsive communication, trusted counsel, and dedication to achieving positive outcomes for her clients. She brings extensive legal knowledge and a client-centeredapproach to every matter. Susan values building long-term relationships and serving as a legal resource for her clients and the community.
Jero Velez with United AI Solutions helps businesses harness the power of artificial intelligence and automation to save time, improve efficiency, and create better customer experiences. The company designs customized AI systems that fit the way each business already operates, making advanced technology practical and easy to use.
Solutions can include AI chatbots, voice agents, automated lead follow-up, appointment scheduling, customer support, workflow automation, content creation, and systems that connect different business tools. For example, an AI assistant can answer customer questions 24/7, qualify new leads, send reminders, update records, or route inquiries to the right team member automatically.
United AI Solutions focuses on solving real business problems—not adding unnecessary technology. By reducing repetitive tasks and improving response times, businesses can operate more efficiently, capture more opportunities, and focus more energy on growth. The goal is simple: help companies work smarter, serve customers better, and build scalable systems for the future.
JLM Electric Inc.
Jose Martinez, owner of JLM Electric Inc., is a licensed C-10 electrical contractor proudly serving Orange County and surrounding communities. Jose and his experienced team provide dependable electrical services for both residential and commercial clients, with a strong focus on quality workmanship, safety, and clear communication.
JLM Electric Inc. offers a wide range of electrical solutions, including panel upgrades, EV charger installations, troubleshooting and repairs, preventative maintenance, remodels, new construction, ceiling fan and whole-house fan installations, and complete electrical systems and wiring for ADUs.
Whether the project involves a small electrical repair, upgrading an outdated panel, preparing a home for an electric vehicle, or completing the electrical work for a major remodel or new construction project, JLM Electric Inc. is committed to providing efficient, code-compliant solutions. Their goal is to minimize disruption while delivering professional, reliable service that homeowners and businesses can feel confident recommending to others.
Licensed • Insured • Local
Email: louie_jlmelectric@outlook.com
Mobile: 949-395-4350
Office: 949-282-8223
Follow Us:
Instagram: @jlm_electric_inc
Lucy’s Residential & Commercial Cleaning Services
Lucy Azpeitia with Lucy's Residential Services provides professional residential and commercial cleaning services throughout Mission Viejo and surrounding Orange County communities. From homes and apartments to offices, retail spaces, Airbnb properties, and vacation rentals, Lucy and her team are dedicated to delivering reliable, high-quality cleaning with exceptional attention to detail.
Services include recurring cleaning, deep cleaning, move-in and move-out cleaning, vacation rental turnovers, and commercial janitorial services. Known for dependable service and personalized care, Lucy's Residential Services helps homeowners and businesses maintain clean, healthy, and welcoming spaces year-round.
Mission Viejo & Surrounding Areas
Office: (949) 521-9072
Email: lucysresidential@gmail.com
Lorenzo’s Grill Film LLC
Jaden Doyle is a videographer and content creator who helps businesses use video to connect with the right audience in a memorable and meaningful way. Through Lorenzo’s Grill Film LLC, he creates everything from scroll-stopping short-form content to polished event sizzle reels designed for websites, trade shows, and marketing campaigns. Jaden manages the entire creative process from concept development and filming through editing, making it easy for business owners to turn ideas into professional video content that supports their brand and business goals.
Jaden specializes in helping niche and specialized businesses that may not benefit from simply chasing large follower counts. Instead, he focuses on creating content that engages ideal customers, communicates value clearly, and helps businesses stand out in crowded markets. His work has generated millions of views and sparked online trends and conversations, giving him a strong understanding of what captures attention and drives engagement. Serving businesses throughout Orange County and San Diego, Jaden is especially passionate about helping owners who feel overwhelmed by constantly changing social media platforms understand how video can work strategically for their business. He offers a free consultation to help determine what type of content can create the greatest impact.
David Lara will help you whether you're buying, selling, refinancing, or building your dream home, you have a lot riding on your loan specialist. Since market conditions and mortgage programs change frequently, you need to make sure you're dealing with a top professional who is able to give you quick and accurate financial advice. David has the expertise and knowledge you need to explore the many financing options available.
Ensuring that you make the right choice for you and your family is my ultimate goal. David is committed to providing his customers with mortgage services that exceed their expectations. Browse the website, check out the different loan programs available, use the decision-making tools and calculators, and apply for a loan in just four easy steps with the short form Application.
After you've applied, David will call you to discuss the details of your loan, or you may choose to set up an appointment with me using my online form. As always, you may contact him anytime by phone, fax or email for personalized service and expert advice.
Loan Officer | NMLS: 234155
CA DRE: 01310841
Licensed in: CA
Annabel Lopez of Auris brings more than 25 years of experience in client success, business relationships, and workforce solutions. She works closely with business owners to simplify essential employee-management functions and identify solutions that improve efficiency, organization, and the overall employee experience.
Through Auris, Annabel helps businesses with payroll, human resources, time and attendance, employee onboarding, applicant tracking, tax-credit opportunities, and other workforce-management needs. Her approach is centered on understanding each organization’s unique challenges and providing practical solutions supported by both technology and personalized service.
Annabel is passionate about building lasting relationships and helping business owners reduce administrative burdens so they can spend more time focusing on their customers, employees, and growth. Her extensive experience allows her to serve as a trusted resource for companies looking to streamline workforce processes, improve day-to-day operations, and create systems that can support their business as it grows.
Justin Croskery is a Design Consultant with System Pavers, proudly serving homeowners throughout Orange County. Justin specializes in creating beautiful, personalized outdoor living spaces designed to bring family and friends together for years to come.
From the initial concept through the finished design, Justin works closely with homeowners to create outdoor environments that are both functional and inviting. System Pavers offers a wide range of outdoor renovation solutions, including paver patios and driveways, artificial turf, pergolas, outdoor kitchens, water features, landscape lighting, pool decks, fire features, and more.
Whether you are looking to refresh a small outdoor area or completely transform your backyard into an entertaining space, Justin helps guide the process with thoughtful design and practical solutions tailored to each home and lifestyle.
Let’s transform your home and create an outdoor space you’ll enjoy for generations.
justin.croskery@systempavers.com
@hardscape_by_jc