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/

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/

In this episode of Keeping the Dream Alive, we’re joined by Virginia McCrary of Torch Technologies to dive into the STEPs program—Society of Torch Emerging Professionals. As one of the program’s founding organizers, Virginia shares how STEPS has evolved into a key part of preserving and growing Torch’s unique employee-owner culture.

From trivia nights and paint parties to professional development and community outreach, STEPS creates opportunities for all employees—new and seasoned—to connect beyond their day-to-day work. Virginia discusses how the program adapts to meet the needs of a growing company, encourages intern participation, and fosters a strong sense of belonging across the team.

🎧 Tune in to hear how STEPS is keeping the Torch culture thriving—one event at a time.

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/