Ron Brown is the owner of Goldman Lewis and Browne (GLB) which started in 2018 and shortly after acquired Pro Risk Security. GLB is a small private equity company that purchases other businesses and does consulting. Pro Risk Security is a broker dealer that is partnered with ADT and Google, plus other security services ensuring safe homes.
Ron is also second chance entrepreneur and a board member of Determination, Incorporated.
Why are you passionate about your business?
I am passionate about my business because of my background in security. I love to protect families. I also have a passion for buying companies. There is a thrill of going in and buying a company that is currently up and running. I don’t have to reinvent the wheel, everything is already established.
What are you most proud of in regard to your business thus far?
I am really proud that I am able to help another family out. I like how two parties can come together to make something work to make a win for both parties. One of the companies I purchased was inherited due to a death in the family. The new owners were not interested in the business and a sale benefitted both of us.
Pro Risk Security makes me proud because I love helping families protect themselves making sure they’re not blindsided.
What’s the biggest lesson you’ve learned so far as an entrepreneur?
I have learned to walk before I run. Don’t get the cart before the horse. Whatever business you’re in, start with small steps. I’ve seen a lot of people jump in and get burned out too quick.
What advice would you give to someone currently in prison who would like to do something positive with their life when they get home?
I think the business starts in that cell. When your family comes to visit, make sure to ask questions and get resources like books to learn about the leg work needed. Do the research in the cell. Rehabilitate yourself first and obtain the knowledge before you come out.
Outside of your business, what is something that you love doing?
I love to fellowship with my family, friends, and fraternity brothers.
What does success look like for you and your business?
I’m not motivated by money anymore. Just doing a good job and being the best I can be is my success. Of course, I am aiming to continue to grow and take care of people, too. When you take care of your customer, and you educate your client, that’s success. In the long run, this will bring a huge return. I would be satisfied to serve more nationwide clients. When I can look back and see that we are in five or more states and employing ex-felons, that will be success.
Why do you choose to serve on the board of Determination, Incorporated?
First and foremost, I share the same mission statement as Determination, Incorporated. Secondly, I’ve been down that road of incarceration and if I can show the next generation how not to get in trouble then that’s what I’m trying to do. I had a white-collar crime, I wasn’t selling drugs, I got in trouble behind a piece of paper. I want to prevent that from happening to others in my community.
Thank you for your service and keep up the great work, Ron!
… … …
Support second chance entrepreneurs by investing in Determination, Incorporated.
Sign up to receive second chance entrepreneur stories in your inbox in our High Five Thursday newsletter.
Determination, Incorporated is a 501C3 nonprofit in KCMO empowering formerly incarcerated people to seize employment and entrepreneurial opportunities in home building, home improvement, and affordable housing. To learn more, contact us here.
Follow us on Instagram, Facebook, and Twitter.
