FOUNDER

Al Betz is more than a business founder—he’s a lifelong communicator, mentor, and visionary. With over five decades of experience in high-level communication, leadership, and education, Al created Outfluence to address one of today’s most pressing needs: the restoration of humanity, dignity, and purpose in how we connect with one another.

A trailblazer in the field of court reporting, Al earned his degree from Baltimore Junior College and began his career with the Maryland Workers’ Compensation Commission before serving as an Official Court Reporter for the U.S. Courts. In 1977, he founded Al Betz & Associates, Inc., and went on to build a legacy not only in professional services but in education, authorship, and public speaking.

Al is the author of several books—including Polishing the Pearl and Outfluence: The Better Way to Influence—which have inspired professionals, educators, and students alike. Through his publications and national speaking engagements across 22 states, Al has shared key principles of Inspired Performance, Constant Messaging, and Silent Communication—concepts that form the foundation of the Outfluence model.

As co-developer of You Are Here… Now What?, Al has helped guide thousands of students, educators, and community members toward stronger relationships, better leadership, and authentic self-expression. His passion for storytelling, mentorship, and purposeful communication continues to drive the mission of Outfluence forward: to create a culture where influence begins with empathy, grows through contribution, and results in lasting impact.

PRESIDENT

Kay L. Betz is a powerhouse of purpose, leadership, and compassion. As President and Co-Founder of Outfluence, LLC, Kay has dedicated her life to designing programs that build stronger communicators, empathetic leaders, and engaged citizens. With a career that bridges the worlds of business, education, and service, she brings a rare blend of heart and strategy to every initiative she leads.

For more than four decades, Kay has served as CFO of a prestigious court reporting firm, while also shaping minds as an instructor at McDaniel College in the Department of Graduate and Professional Studies for over 20 years. Her passion for education, especially in the human services field, has guided students preparing to support individuals with intellectual and developmental disabilities, and has influenced countless young lives through her mentorship and teaching.

Kay’s deep involvement with youth inspired the co-creation of You Are Here… Now What?, a groundbreaking program that equips high school students with essential communication, leadership, and personal development skills. Her work reflects a lifetime of volunteering, strategic consulting for nonprofits, and leadership at the board level—including her roles with Carroll Lutheran Village and Lutheran Social Ministries of Maryland.

A nationally recognized speaker on communication and personal growth, Kay believes in the power of intentional relationships, community contribution, and lifelong learning. Her leadership continues to shape Outfluence into a movement that reminds us all: communication isn’t just a skill—it’s a legacy.

DIRECTOR OF MARKETING

Rich Collins brings a lifelong passion for people and purpose to his role as Director of Marketing at Outfluence. With a background rooted in service, leadership, and clear communication, Rich is driven by a deep belief in the power of human connection—a value that perfectly aligns with Outfluence’s mission to restore dignity, empathy, and effectiveness in how we communicate.

A graduate of the University of Maryland with a degree in Government & Politics, Rich began his career in high-stakes sales roles with IBM and Lexis/Nexis, where he trained legal and defense professionals—including JAG officers, patent examiners, and speechwriters—to navigate complex information systems. His ability to connect, teach, and empower others has always set him apart.

Outside the corporate world, Rich has closed over 20,000 real estate transactions as a mortgage settlement agent, and continues to serve his community through work with the Lions Club and as a live audio describer for the blind. Whether volunteering, umpiring baseball games, or supporting civic campaigns, Rich leads with fairness, respect, and a gift for thoughtful communication.

At Outfluence, Rich channels his experience and heart into elevating programs like You Are Here… Now What?—spreading the message that in a world of digital noise, real human connection still matters most.