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Our 2nd conversation with economist Robert W. (Bill) Gilmer, Ph.D., discussing his career, and the economies of the world, country and region.Bill Gilmer is director of the Institute for Regional Forecasting at the University of Houston’s Bauer College of Business. The Institute monitors the Houston and Gulf Coast business cycle, analyzing how oil markets, the national economy, and global expansion influence the regional economy. Gilmer previously served the Federal Reserve Bank of Dallas for 23 years, retiring from the bank as a Senior Economist and Vice President.Bob Stephens is the host of Outside The Boardroom. Bob is also the principal owner of SMG Services, a financial consultancy offering M&A Advisory Services, and Kimes, Stephens & Co., a financial accounting practice.

Ralph Schroeder is a Private Wealth Advisor. With assets under management approaching $1B, he has 34 years of experience in helping affluent clients preserve and grow their wealth. He combines his experience and knowledge with an established network of expert resources, and is among the most qualified and credentialed advisors in the industry. He has earned numerous certifications, and has a storied career with a long list of Awards and Recognitions.Bob Stephens is the host of Outside The Boardroom. Bob is also the principal owner of SMG Services, a financial consultancy offering M&A Advisory Services, and Kimes, Stephens & Co., a financial accounting practice.

Sharon Birkman Fink, President and CEO of Birkman International, is the second generation to stand at the helm of this family-owned behavioral and occupational assessment company. She has worked to usher in a new era of product development and growth. Sharon, who holds an M.A. from the University of Texas and has completed the Owner/President Management program at Harvard, assumed her leadership role at Birkman 14 years ago, following a career as a professional musician and musical director. Her passion for creativity, client relations, community-giving, and integrity are defining features of her leadership style, helping to shape Birkman’s company culture and mission. Sharon is also co-author of The Birkman Method: Your personality at Work, published in 2013, and has a new book coming out soon.