John Ray, Author at Business RadioX ® Page

The CrowdStrike Incident: Analysis and Takeaways

July 24, 2024 by John Ray

Hall Booth Smith Podcast Network

The CrowdStrike Incident: Analysis and Takeaways

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The CrowdStrike Incident: Analysis and Takeaways (PrivacyCafé, Episode 5)

In this episode of PrivacyCafé, hosts Jade Davis and Richard Sheinis delve into the massive disruption caused by the recent CrowdStrike incident. They explore the details of how a single antivirus update led to widespread outages affecting millions of Windows devices in critical sectors like healthcare and aviation and prompted opportunistic phishing attacks. The hosts discuss CrowdStrike’s response, potential legal repercussions, and the importance of preparedness in cybersecurity. The episode emphasizes the interconnectedness of global systems and the lessons learned from this unexpected event.

PrivacyCafé is underwritten and presented by Hall Booth Smith. The show is produced by John Ray and the North Fulton studio of Business RadioX®.

Topics Discussed in this Episode

00:00 Introduction to PrivacyCafé
00:30 Overview of the CrowdStrike Incident
03:21 Impact on Various Sectors
05:44 Lessons in Preparedness
09:16 CrowdStrike’s Response and Public Reaction
11:17 Potential Legal Ramifications
18:31 Final Thoughts and Conclusion

About PrivacyCafé

PrivacyCafé is your essential guide through the complex terrain where law, data privacy, cybersecurity, and artificial intelligence intersect. Hosts Richard Sheinis and Jade Davis, Co-Leads and Partners in the Data Privacy and Cybersecurity Practice at Hall Booth Smith, unravel the intricacies of privacy laws, offer insights on cybersecurity issues and concerns, explore fast-moving artificial intelligence technologies and their implications, and interview top experts. Underwritten by Hall Booth Smith, this podcast is essential listening not only for data privacy and cybersecurity experts but for business owners, executives, and others interested in the latest insights on these topics.

Richard and Jade welcome your questions, feedback, and topic requests. Email them: PrivacyCafe@hallboothsmith.com. You will also find other news and insights from Richard and Jade, as well as other professionals in the Data Privacy & Cybersecurity practice at Hall Booth Smith, by visiting the Data Privacy & Cybersecurity page.

PrivacyCafé is underwritten and presented by Hall Booth Smith. The show is produced by John Ray and the North Fulton studio of Business RadioX®.

Richard Sheinis, Partner, Hall Booth Smith

Richard Sheinis has litigated in federal and state courts for 37 years and has been the first chair for approximately 175 jury trials. His clients have included health care professionals and institutions, technology companies, and global business entities.

Rich takes advantage of his litigation background to work with businesses in the areas of data privacy and cybersecurity, employment, and technology. He works with a wide variety of companies, from small technology businesses to publicly traded companies with a global footprint.

Rich also teaches Health Information Privacy and Security as an adjunct professor at the University of North Carolina at Charlotte.

Jade Davis, Partner, Hall Booth Smith

Jade Davis is a Partner at Hall Booth Smith who focuses her practice on data privacy, cybersecurity, artificial intelligence, and construction technology.

Jade provides strategic privacy and cyber-preparedness compliance advice and defends, counsels, and represents companies on privacy, global data security compliance, data breaches, and investigations. Jade advises companies on best practices in privacy, artificial intelligence, cybersecurity, data, mobile, cloud storage, Ad Tech privacy, Internet of Things, and other areas of regulatory compliance.

She leads companies in legal assessments of data security and provides counsel to companies on how best to implement strategies to lead with data and avoid pitfalls. She helps companies strategically think about data while being mindful of global data protection laws, such as the GDPR, UK GDPR, PIPEDA, PDPA, PIPL, LGPD, nFADP, DPDP, CCPA, HITECH, and HIPAA, to name a few.

Jade enjoys helping clients deal with crisis management issues to protect the brand and leads forensic investigations. Her data privacy/cyber security practice reaches into a variety of sectors such as Healthcare, Manufacturing, Hospitality, Construction, Technology, Marketing, Agriculture, Retail, Entertainment, Telecommunications, Energy, Transportation, Logistics, Human Resources, Real Estate, and Insurance to provide litigation defense, advisory assistance, and contractual expertise regarding data privacy agreements, standard contract clauses and addenda, vendor subcontracts, privacy policies, and cookie policies, among others.

About Hall Booth Smith, P.C.

Established in 1989, Hall Booth Smith, P.C. (HBS) is a full-service law firm headquartered in Atlanta, Georgia, with regional offices strategically located throughout Georgia and the United States. Experienced across a wide range of legal disciplines, HBS prides itself on providing knowledgeable, proactive, client-specific counsel to individuals, domestic and international corporations, state and federal agencies, and nonprofit organizations.

HBS possesses the legal knowledge, skill, and experience to meet their clients’ needs wherever they do business. HBS maintains the highest commitment to ethically and professionally serve their clients by providing the highest quality legal representation.

They deliver quality legal services in a variety of service areas. Experience across legal disciplines combined with a focus on the unique business or personal requirements of the client is the hallmark of the firm. Their clients receive the attention, expertise, and cost-effectiveness of a smaller law firm with the full-service and strong regional presence typical of a larger one.

Company website | LinkedIn | Facebook | Instagram

Disclaimer

PrivacyCafé is a production brought to you by Hall Booth Smith, P.C. This podcast is published for the purposes of providing general information and education on topics which include those related to the law and legal issues, but the contents of the podcast do not constitute legal advice. Listening to this podcast or utilizing the information contained in it in any way does not constitute nor does it create an attorney-client relationship between you and Hall Booth Smith or its lawyers. The contents of this podcast should not be used as a substitute for competent legal advice from a professional attorney licensed in your jurisdiction.

Inside Poe & Company Bookstore with Owner Kate Seng

July 24, 2024 by John Ray

North Fulton Business Radio

Inside Poe & Company Bookstore with Owner Kate Seng

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Inside Poe & Company Bookstore with Owner Kate Seng (North Fulton Business Radio, Episode 787)

In this episode of North Fulton Business Radio, host John Ray welcomes Kate Seng, the owner and founder of Poe and Company Bookstore, located in Milton, Georgia. Celebrating its second anniversary, this full-service community bookstore offers a wide range of genres, with a particular focus on children’s literature and local authors. Kate shares her passion for community building through various events, including story times, book clubs, and author signings. The discussion also touches on the challenges of running an independent bookstore, the importance she places in supporting local organizations like Jesse’s House, and the joys of creating memorable experiences for customers. Additionally, Kate talks about her journey as a children’s book author and offers advice for aspiring writers.

Click this link for the details on “Harvesting Hope For Jesse’s House – Author’s Night,” mentioned during the show. This event, to be held on September 13, 2024, will benefit Jesse’s House and is co-sponsored by Stoney J’s Winery and Poe & Company Bookstore.

John Ray is the host of North Fulton Business Radio. The show is recorded and produced from the North Fulton studio of Business RadioX® inside Renasant Bank in Alpharetta.

Kate Seng, Owner, Poe & Company Bookstore

Kate Seng is the owner of Poe & Company Bookstore, an independent, family-owned bookstore located in downtown Crabapple, Milton, GA, and serving customers from Alpharetta, Roswell, Johns Creek, Woodstock, and beyond.

Kate’s journey as a bookstore owner began with a childhood passion for reading and storytelling, inspired by her father’s love for literature, particularly the works of Edgar Allan Poe and Sir Arthur Conan Doyle. She founded Poe & Company Bookstore with a dual mission: to encourage reading with physical books and to give back to the local community.

Under Kate’s leadership, the bookstore has become more than just a place to buy books. It serves as a community gathering space, hosting various events such as children’s story time, book clubs, Bible studies, and author signings.

Kate’s approach to running Poe & Company reflects her personal connection to literature and her commitment to fostering a love for reading within the community. Her background and passion have shaped the bookstore into a welcoming space for book lovers of all ages.

Additionally, Kate Seng has published two children’s books, Doodle Noodle (2021) and Mazie’s Full Heart (2022).

Website | Facebook | Instagram

Topics Discussed in this Episode

00:00 Introduction and Welcome
01:27 Meet Kate Seng of Poe & Company Bookstore
01:50 Poe & Company Bookstore: Services and Events
02:58 Kate Seng’s Journey as an Author
03:52 The Importance of Community Bookstores
06:05 Children’s Books by Kate Seng
09:37 Advice for Aspiring Children’s Book Authors
11:02 Running a Successful Bookstore
15:32 Community Support and Events
19:56 Popular Books and Recommendations
22:58 Closing Remarks and Announcements

Renasant Bank and Casa Nuova Italian Restaurant support North Fulton Business Radio

Renasant Bank has humble roots, starting in 1904 as a $100,000 bank in a Lee County, Mississippi, bakery. Since then, Renasant has become one of the Southeast’s strongest financial institutions, with over $13 billion in assets and more than 190 banking, lending, wealth management, and financial services offices in Mississippi, Alabama, Tennessee, Georgia, and Florida. All of Renasant’s success stems from each of their banker’s commitment to investing in their communities as a way of better understanding the people they serve. At Renasant Bank, they understand you because they work and live alongside you every day.

Casa Nuova is a proud family-owned and operated restaurant, serving classic, authentic and traditional Italian cuisine and top tier hospitality since 1998.

Casa Nuova is a cook-to-order kitchen, serving traditional fare including pasta, chicken, seafood, veal, vegetarian and gluten-free options, plus daily specials. They are a farm-to-table establishment, meaning that in the summertime, they cultivate their own vegetables in their garden, steps away from the restaurant, including tomatoes, corn, peppers, zucchini, sunflowers and more!

Celebrating more than 25 years, Casa Nuova has become a true staple in the Alpharetta area, serving more than three generations of families, including friends old and new, visiting near and far from all over the metro Atlanta area and beyond.

Website | LinkedIn | Facebook | Instagram

About North Fulton Business Radio and host John Ray

With over 780 shows and having featured over 1,200 guests, North Fulton Business Radio is the longest-running podcast in the North Fulton area, covering business in our community like no one else. We are the undisputed “Voice of Business” in North Fulton!

The show welcomes a wide variety of business, non-profit, and community leaders to get the word out about the important work they’re doing to serve their market, their community, and their profession. There’s no discrimination based on company size, and there’s never any “pay to play.” North Fulton Business Radio supports and celebrates business by sharing positive business stories that traditional media ignore. Some media leans left. Some media leans right. We lean business.

John Ray, Business RadioX - North Fulton, and Owner, Ray Business Advisors — **John Ray, Business RadioX – North Fulton, and Owner, Ray Business Advisors**

John Ray is the host of North Fulton Business Radio. The show is recorded and produced from the North Fulton studio of Business RadioX® inside Renasant Bank in Alpharetta. You can find the full archive of shows by following this link. The show is available on all the major podcast apps, including Apple Podcasts, Spotify, Google, Amazon, iHeart Radio, and many others.

The studio address is 275 South Main Street, Alpharetta, GA 30009.

John Ray also operates his own business advisory practice. John’s services include advising solopreneurs and small professional services firms on their value, their positioning and business development, and their pricing. His clients are professionals who are selling their expertise, such as consultants, coaches, attorneys, CPAs, accountants and bookkeepers, marketing professionals, and other professional services practitioners.

John is the national bestselling author of The Generosity Mindset: A Journey to Business Success by Raising Your Confidence, Value, and Prices.

Tracing the Growing Middle-Income Housing Crisis in North Fulton, with Jack Murphy, Nancy Diamond, and Kathy Swahn, North Fulton Improvement Network

July 23, 2024 by John Ray

Tracing the Growing Middle-Income Housing Crisis in North Fulton, North Fulton Improvement Network

North Fulton Studio

Tracing the Growing Middle-Income Housing Crisis in North Fulton, with Jack Murphy, Nancy Diamond, and Kathy Swahn, North Fulton Improvement Network

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Tracing the Growing Middle-Income Housing Crisis in North Fulton, with Jack Murphy, Nancy Diamond, and Kathy Swahn, North Fulton Improvement Network (North Fulton Voices, Episode 2)

In this episode of North Fulton Voices, host John Ray interviews Jack Murphy, Kathy Swahn, and Nancy Diamond, the executive team from the North Fulton Improvement Network. Jack, Nancy, and Kathy discuss the history of NFIN and how the organization started narrowing its focus on the growing middle-income housing crisis in North Fulton. They talk about the challenges this problem creates for essential workers like first responders and teachers, as well as the organizations that employ them. They delve into the history and evolution of NFIN as this crisis has ballooned and what the broader implications are for the community. The discussion also covers the connection between housing affordability and other sectors like education, transportation, and healthcare, emphasizing the importance of community awareness and engagement. Various innovative solutions that have been successfully implemented elsewhere are offered, as well as comments on why addressing the workforce housing issue is critical for the region’s economic vitality.

North Fulton Voices is presented by the North Fulton Improvement Network. The show series is proudly sponsored by John Ray Co. and the North Fulton affiliate of Business RadioX®.

Topics Discussed in this Episode

00:00 Welcome to North Fulton Voices
00:18 The Middle-Income Housing Crisis in North Fulton
01:04 Introducing the North Fulton Improvement Network
01:21 Origins and Evolution of the Network
04:40 Personal Stories and Involvement
10:25 Challenges and Solutions for Workforce Housing
16:45 Impact on Community and Services
21:10 Call to Action and Community Involvement
29:52 The Role of Education and Schools
34:45 Closing Thoughts and Future Directions on the Middle-Income Housing Crisis
39:16 How to Get Involved and Stay Connected

North Fulton Improvement Network

The North Fulton Improvement Network (NFIN) is a think tank made up of community leaders from a variety of sectors, focused on missing middle housing and the livability challenges confronting North Fulton. We come from the six cities making up the northern half of Fulton County, Georgia — Alpharetta, Johns Creek, Milton, Mountain Park, Roswell, and Sandy Springs — and are working to address the widespread yet little-known financial vulnerability across the region. With stakeholders from sectors including business, nonprofit, faith, government, and citizens, we center our work on five areas of impact, seek to educate the public about these issues, build a network of individuals and organizations with innovative private and public solutions, and connect resources to those in need.

The leadership team of NFIN is Jack Murphy, Nancy Diamond, and Kathy Swahn.

Jack Murphy

Jack Murphy is a volunteer with The Society of St. Vincent de Paul and is Chair of the North Fulton Improvement Network. He is also in his 21st year of working for the Metro Atlanta Chamber of Commerce.

Prior to the Chamber, Jack worked for and with Fortune 500 companies in operations, human resources, training, and quality areas. Jack was a senior adjunct professor for Quality & Operations Management at Keller Graduate School for 14 years.

He has served on both the National and Georgia Boards of The Society of St. Vincent de Paul, responsible for Diversity, Advocacy, & Systemic Change. Jack is currently the national SVDP chair of Systemic Change and Advocacy.

Jack received a BA in psychology from Belmont Abbey College and a M.Ed. from UNC-Greensboro. Jack and his wife, Nancy, a retired elementary school principal, have two grown daughters and two grandchildren. They live in Alpharetta, Georgia.

Nancy Diamond

Nancy Diamond is a Project Manager with Schmit & Associates, a real estate development firm, creating town center revitalization in communities all around the metro area.

Nancy served 8 years as a Roswell City Council Member, including a term as Mayor Pro Tem, with liaison positions with Community Development, Transportation, Recreation & Parks, and Public Safety.

In addition to her work with the North Fulton Improvement Network, Nancy has been active in area non-profit organizations, including board leadership positions in the STAR House Foundation, WellStar North Fulton Hospital, and the Roswell Rotary Club.

A native of Atlanta and a 42-year North Fulton resident, Nancy worked at Turner Broadcasting in the early years of CNN, then became a freelancer in sports television graphics. While raising her two daughters, she worked from home, first developing a corporate gift service, and later as a mortgage loan originator.

Nancy and her husband, Glenn, now relish the role of grandparents to 8-year-old Owen.

Kathy Swahn

Kathy has resided in the North Fulton area for almost 45 years. She has watched the community evolve from what was “unincorporated Fulton County” to a six-city bustling suburban community. Her history has been characterized by a focus on children: she was a stay-at-home mother who raised two daughters, she spent years in leadership roles in school PTAs and Girl Scouts, the National Charity League, the North Fulton Council of PTAs, and she served as chair of the Superintendent’s Advisory Council.

Kathy transitioned back to work by jumping into the non-profit world. She joined the team at North Fulton Community Charities, running their Holiday Program, becoming Development Director and successfully managing the $3 million capital campaign for their Elkins Road location. Along the way, she also served on the DFACS Board and chaired the board of the Fulton County Continuum of Care for four years.

After having the opportunity to join in the Greater North Fulton Chamber of Commerce Leadership Program, Kathy was surrounded with a dynamic group of folks who worked to create The Drake House. Since 2004, she served as board chair for the first four years, executive director for nine years, and is now retired. Over those years, The Drake House served over 500 single mothers with over 1,000 children and grew the assets of the organization to over $4 million.

Kathy continues to serve The Drake House on the Advocacy Committee, along with her work for NFIN.

She spends much of her time traveling to the DC area, where her children and grandchildren reside.

About North Fulton Voices

While North Fulton County is one of the most desirable places to live in the United States, the region faces a growing crisis: a severe shortage of housing options for middle-income employees, particularly essential workers such as first responders and teachers. Presented by the North Fulton Improvement Network, North Fulton Voices is the go-to source for in-depth analysis and discussion of missing middle housing and the livability challenges confronting North Fulton. Listen as we understand the implications of this problem, explore innovative solutions, and examine why providing these housing options is vital for North Fulton’s future. The show is sponsored and offered as a service to the community by John Ray Co. and the North Fulton affiliate of Business RadioX®.

Sponsor for North Fulton Voices: John Ray and Business RadioX – North Fulton

The North Fulton Voices show series is proudly sponsored by John Ray Co. and the North Fulton affiliate of Business RadioX®.

John Ray is a podcast show host and producer, and owns the North Fulton (Georgia) affiliate of Business RadioX®. John and his team work with B2B professionals to create and conduct their own podcast using The Generosity Mindset™ Method: building and deepening relationships in a non-salesy way that translates into revenue for their business.

John also operates his own business advisory practice, Ray Business Advisors. John’s services include advising solopreneur and small professional services firms on their value, their positioning and business development, and their pricing. His clients are professionals who are selling their expertise, such as consultants, coaches, attorneys, CPAs, accountants and bookkeepers, marketing professionals, and other professional services practitioners.

John is the author of the #1 nationally best-selling book, The Generosity Mindset: A Journey to Business Success by Raising Your Confidence, Value, and Prices.

John is the host of North Fulton Business Radio and The Price and Value Journey. North Fulton Business Radio, the longest-running podcast in the North Fulton region of Georgia, features a wide range of business and community leaders. The Price and Value Journey is devoted to solo and small firm professional services providers and covers issues such as pricing, value, and business development.

Website | LinkedIn

Jonathan Holmes, Mighty 8th Media

July 22, 2024 by John Ray

Good2Give Podcast

Jonathan Holmes, Mighty 8th Media

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Jonathan Holmes, Mighty 8th Media, (Good2Give Podcast, Episode 11)

In this episode of the Good2Give Podcast, hosted by Maria Walden and DePriest Waddy from the Community Foundation for Northeast Georgia, the focus is on the intersection of philanthropy, the creative economy, and community development. Special guest Jonathan Holmes from Mighty 8th Media, a creative marketing agency, shares insights about his company’s role in driving economic growth through creative industries such as marketing, video production, and branding. The episode highlights the upcoming Good2Give gala on August 16, 2024, which will showcase various nonprofit organizations in the arts, emphasizing the importance of the arts in community and economic development. Additionally, the conversation delves into initiatives like food insecurity and the role of the arts in fostering community engagement and human worth.

The Good2Give Podcast is presented by the Community Foundation for Northeast Georgia. The show is produced by John Ray and the North Fulton studio of Business RadioX®. You can find the full archive of shows by following this link.

Jonathan Holmes, Managing Partner, Mighty 8th Media LLC

Jonathan Holmes is co-founder and Managing Partner and CFO of Mighty 8th Media, a full-service marketing and creative agency. The agency was founded in 2005 and has grown to be an Inc 5000 -ranked top 50 Marketing Agencies in Atlanta, according to the Atlanta Business Chronicle 2017 & 2018. His agency has been awarded Best Places to Work in Atlanta, 2013, 2014, 2015 and 2019 and Best Places to Work in Georgia in 2010 and 2016.

Jonathan is a highly trained professional in accounting, non-profit operations, marketing, web and strategic planning with over 35 years of hands-on experience in revenue growth, organizational development, brand repositioning and entrepreneurial start-ups.

He is a native South Carolinian and graduate from the University of South Carolina. A 2018 Graduate of Leadership Gwinnett and 2022 LG Alumni Chair, having lived in Gwinnett for 21 years, Gwinnett is his “hometown.” He is an avid supporter, helping to make Gwinnett Great as a growing county to lead the Atlanta Metro Region supporting a diverse population. He currently serves as Board Chair of Artworks Gwinnett. Most recently, through his leadership efforts, Artworks has undertaken a Master Plan for Gwinnett’s Creative Economy – growing the Arts, Entertainment and Technology sector as an economic engine for Gwinnett.

He is a board member of the Gwinnett Chamber, a board member of the Gwinnett Parks Foundation, an advisor and investor in Partnership Gwinnett, and a Chairman’s Club member of the Gwinnett Chamber. He also serves on the Board of Visitors of Georgia Gwinnett College and the Georgia Gwinnett College Foundation Development Committee. Most recently, he was appointed as a board member of Pinnacle Bank, based in Elberton, GA.

Mighty 8th Media LLC

Headquartered in the heart of historic Buford, GA, Mighty 8th is an award-winning, nationally recognized marketing and creative agency. Founded in 2005 by industry veterans Jonathan Holmes and Bradley Sherwood, Mighty 8th has become synonymous with producing powerful campaigns that drive business and make a lasting impact. The agency provides everything from strategy and creative development to website design and broadcast production for local, national and international clients across a variety of industries, including Alta Refrigeration, ClearStar, Consolidated Banking Services, Emory University, Gwinnett County Public Schools, Hyster Company, MegaSlab, Pinnacle Bank, Porter Steel, Primus Builders and Reeves Young, and State Road Tollway Authority (Peach Pass).

Website | LinkedIn | Facebook | Twitter | Instagram

00:00 Introduction to the Good2Give Podcast
00:38 Meet Jonathan Holmes from Mighty 8th Media
02:12 The Creative Economy and Community Initiatives
02:56 Upcoming Good2Give Event Details
05:05 Exploring the Creative Economy
10:32 The Role of Arts in Economic Development
13:37 The Impact of Arts on Community and Youth
17:56 The Art of Giving and Food Insecurity
27:20 Mighty 8th Media’s Marketing Expertise
33:18 Closing Remarks and Contact Information

The Good2Give Podcast celebrates the work of donors, nonprofits, and the causes they care about. DePriest Waddy and Maria Walden-Sullivan are the show’s hosts, and the Community Foundation for Northeast Georgia is the presenting sponsor.

The Good2Give Podcast is produced by John Ray and the North Fulton studio of Business RadioX®. You can find the full archive of shows by following this link. You can also find the show on all the major podcast apps, including Apple Podcasts, Spotify, and many others.

At the Community Foundation for Northeast Georgia, everything they do centers around one purpose: improving the world through the power of philanthropy.

On a fundamental level, they do that through managing funds held in trust, donated by individuals, organizations, and businesses. Most funds are donor-advised funds, similar to savings accounts. These funds are pooled for investment purposes, and their income is used to make grants for a wide variety of charitable purposes.

But the Foundation’s goals extend far beyond managing funds. They desire to strengthen the communities they serve in Gwinnett, Northeast Georgia, and beyond by providing leadership, addressing community needs, and assisting individuals and organizations with their charitable giving.

Connect with CFNEG:
Website | Facebook | LinkedIn | Twitter | Instagram

Business Mastery Through Bookkeeping, with Jason Wong, FinCay LLC

July 19, 2024 by John Ray

North Fulton Business Radio

Business Mastery Through Bookkeeping, with Jason Wong, FinCay LLC

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Business Mastery Through Bookkeeping, with Jason Wong, FinCay LLC (North Fulton Business Radio, Episode 786)

In this episode of North Fulton Business Radio, host John Ray interviews Jason Wong, the owner of FinCay LLC, a firm specializing in bookkeeping and tax services for small businesses. Jason discusses the importance of meticulous bookkeeping, the challenges small businesses face, particularly in the restaurant and contracting industries, and how his firm utilizes technology like QuickBooks Online to streamline financial management. He also shares personal success stories and addresses the critical role of tax planning. The episode underscores the significant ROI of professional accounting services and offers insights into mitigating common small business financial pitfalls.

John Ray is the host of North Fulton Business Radio. The show is recorded and produced from the North Fulton studio of Business RadioX® inside Renasant Bank in Alpharetta.

Jason Wong, FinCay LLC

Jason Wong is the visionary founder and leader of FinCay LLC, established in 2019.

He earned his MBA in Business Management from Nova Southeastern University before moving to the Cayman Islands. There, Jason amassed extensive professional experience in hedge funds, private equity funds, compliance, and various system integration projects.

After gaining substantial expertise in the financial sector, Jason Wong and his business partner decided to establish their own accounting and bookkeeping company, FinCay Inc. In 2017, Jason returned to the United States with the goal of expanding the FinCay brand to successfully meet the needs of the U.S. market. He maintained existing services while transforming FinCay LLC into a certified tax firm, achieving QuickBooks ProAdvisor certification, and registering as a government contractor.

Currently, Jason is working towards completing his CPA exams, with the aim of elevating FinCay LLC to the status of a certified accounting firm.

Website | LinkedIn | Instagram | Facebook | Jason’s LinkedIn

Topics Discussed in this Episode

00:00 Introduction and Welcome to North Fulton Business Radio
01:23 Meet Jason Wong of FinCay LLC
02:10 Jason’s Journey to Accounting
03:42 Helping Small Businesses Succeed
05:58 Technology in Bookkeeping
11:03 Challenges Faced by Contractors
15:08 Tax Planning Insights
23:01 Success Stories and Client Experiences
25:21 Contact Information and Closing Remarks

Renasant Bank and Casa Nuova Italian Restaurant support North Fulton Business Radio

Casa Nuova is a proud family-owned and operated restaurant, serving classic, authentic and traditional Italian cuisine and top tier hospitality since 1998.

Website | LinkedIn | Facebook | Instagram

About North Fulton Business Radio and host John Ray

With over 770 shows and having featured over 1,200 guests, North Fulton Business Radio is the longest-running podcast in the North Fulton area, covering business in our community like no one else. We are the undisputed “Voice of Business” in North Fulton!

The studio address is 275 South Main Street, Alpharetta, GA 30009.

John is the national bestselling author of The Generosity Mindset: A Journey to Business Success by Raising Your Confidence, Value, and Prices.

Executive Search and Custom Software Development, with Tino Mantella, President, Retained, and CSO, Relevantz

July 19, 2024 by John Ray

North Fulton Business Radio

Executive Search and Custom Software Development, with Tino Mantella, President, Retained, and CSO, Relevantz

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Executive Search and Custom Software Development, with Tino Mantella, President, Retained, and CSO, Relevantz (North Fulton Business Radio, Episode 785)

In this episode of North Fulton Business Radio, host John Ray interviews Tino Mantella, President and Managing Partner of Retained, and Chief Strategy Officer of Relevantz. Tino shares insights into his multifaceted career, which includes his roles at these companies, his involvement in nonprofits, and his past leadership positions. He discusses the operations and strategic goals of Relevantz, a custom software development company, and Retained, an executive search firm. The conversation’s emphasis is placed on Tino’s extensive experience in leadership roles, his strategic approach to consulting, and the importance of effective communication and networking in business development.

John Ray is the host of North Fulton Business Radio. The show is recorded and produced from the North Fulton studio of Business RadioX® inside Renasant Bank in Alpharetta.

Tino Mantella, President, Retained, and CSO, Relevantz

Tino Mantella is a seasoned executive with over 25 years of leadership experience who currently holds significant positions at two companies in Alpharetta, Georgia: Relevantz Technology Services and Retained.

At Relevantz, Mantella serves as the Chief Strategy Officer. In this role, he is primarily responsible for advancing the company’s sales and marketing efforts, leveraging his extensive expertise to drive Relevantz’s growth strategy. Relevantz is a leading software services company that has been delivering technology solutions for enterprises and ISVs for over 25 years.

At Retained, Mantella holds the positions of Managing Partner and President. Retained is a newly formed executive search firm that specializes in placing C-suite tech positions, such as CIOs, CTOs, and CISOs, as well as other leadership positions, mostly in the technology sector.

Mantella’s career highlights include:

Leading YMCA programs for over 20 years, culminating in his role as CEO of the Chicago YMCA system, which he grew to become the largest YMCA system globally.
Playing a critical role in expanding the Technology Association of Georgia (TAG) from under 350 members to over 36,000, making it the largest tech trade association in North America.
Serving as CEO of Turknett Leadership Group (TLG), where he doubled the company’s growth and expanded its services.

In addition to his roles at Relevantz and Retained, Mantella maintains minority ownership in TLG, Tier4 Advisors, and the International Sports Technology Association. This diverse portfolio demonstrates his commitment to leadership across various sectors and his ability to drive growth in multiple organizations simultaneously.

Topics Discussed in this Episode

00:00 Introduction and Welcome to North Fulton Business Radio
01:11 Guest Introduction: Tino Mantella
02:37 Discussing Relevantz: Custom Software Development
12:28 Exploring Retained: Executive Search
17:35 Leadership and Strategy Insights
31:14 Conclusion and Contact Information
32:21 Closing Remarks and Announcements

Renasant Bank and Casa Nuova Italian Restaurant support North Fulton Business Radio

Casa Nuova is a proud family-owned and operated restaurant, serving classic, authentic and traditional Italian cuisine and top tier hospitality since 1998.

Website | LinkedIn | Facebook | Instagram

About North Fulton Business Radio and host John Ray

The studio address is 275 South Main Street, Alpharetta, GA 30009.

John is the national bestselling author of The Generosity Mindset: A Journey to Business Success by Raising Your Confidence, Value, and Prices.

Michael Miller, Embassy National Bank; Adam Sims, Freedom Fencing of Georgia; and Terry Lakritz and Christopher James, The Odd Couple Roofing Specialists

July 18, 2024 by John Ray

Embassy National Bank, Freedom Fencing of Georgia, The Odd Couple Roofing Specialists

Family Business Radio

Michael Miller, Embassy National Bank; Adam Sims, Freedom Fencing of Georgia; and Terry Lakritz and Christopher James, The Odd Couple Roofing Specialists

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Michael Miller, Embassy National Bank; Adam Sims, Freedom Fencing of Georgia; and Terry Lakritz and Christopher James, The Odd Couple Roofing Specialists (Family Business Radio, Episode 57)

Four distinguished guests share their professional journeys and insights into their respective fields on this episode of Family Business Radio with host Anthony Chen. Michael Miller, known as “the Bowtie Banker,” discusses his commitment to supporting small businesses with personalized banking services. Adam Sims from Freedom Fencing of Georgia explains the advantages of no-dig fencing technology. Chris and Terry from Emergency Roofing Solutions narrate their paths into roofing and emphasize the importance of transparency and ethics. Each guest offers valuable advice for aspiring entrepreneurs, stressing the importance of taking informed risks, embracing change, maintaining strong values, and seeking mentorship.

Anthony closed the show with a commentary on reaching out to learn from the experiences of others as you open and manage your business.

Family Business Radio is underwritten and brought to you by Anthony Chen with Lighthouse Financial Network. The show is produced by John Ray and the North Fulton affiliate of Business RadioX®.

Michael Miller, Embassy National Bank

As a Commercial/SBA Loan Officer and Portfolio Manager of Embassy National Bank, Michael is responsible for working with business owners not only on their lending needs but on their entire banking relationship. Known as “the Bowtie Banker,” Michael prides himself on personal service and responsiveness.

Prior to joining Embassy National Bank, Michael had worked with other financial institutions in the South and Midwest. His background has included commercial lending, special assets, risk management, loan documentation, fraud detection, & collections. Michael has over 30 years of experience in the banking industry.

Michael is a graduate of Washburn University with a Bachelor of Business Administration degree.

Michael’s LinkedIn | Website | LinkedIn | Facebook | X (Twitter)

Adam Sims, Freedom Fencing of Georgia

Adam Sims is the Owner of Freedom Fencing of Georgia. Freedom Fencing of Georgia is a leading fence and deck installation and repair company serving the North Metro Atlanta area. They specialize in providing quality fences built by skilled craftsmen, with a focus on serving the local community and public safety needs. The company stands out for its innovative No-Dig Fence Solution, which results in stronger, longer-lasting fences with less mess and the ability to install in tighter spaces compared to traditional methods.

Demonstrating their commitment to quality and customer satisfaction, Freedom Fencing of Georgia offers a lifetime craftsmanship warranty on their work. They provide a diverse range of fencing options to suit various needs and preferences. These include aluminum No-Dig fences, which are low maintenance and popular for pool fences; wood No-Dig fences, a traditional option with steel posts for durability and various design choices; and vinyl No-Dig fences, a maintenance-free option with multiple color choices and privacy fence panels.

The company prides itself on advancing the fencing industry by providing innovative solutions and high-value services to their clients. Positive client testimonials from various Georgia locations serve as proof of their emphasis on craftsmanship and commitment to customer satisfaction. With their focus on innovation, quality, and customer service, Freedom Fencing of Georgia has established itself as a trusted name in the fencing and deck industry in the region.

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Terry Lakritz and Christopher James, The Odd Couple Roofing Specialists

The Odd Couple Roofing Specialists originated from an unexpected alliance between Christopher and Terry. Christopher, the roofing expert, initially connected with Terry as a client seeking roof replacement services. What started as a professional transaction quickly evolved into a friendship built on mutual trust and satisfaction. Terry, having experienced firsthand the exceptional quality of Christopher’s work, not only got a new roof but also became a passionate advocate for his services.

Recognizing the potential of their combined strengths, Christopher and Terry decided to form a partnership. Terry’s business insights and Christopher’s roofing skills proved to be a winning combination, leading to the establishment of The Odd Couple Roofing Specialists.

This unique collaboration embodies the fusion of technical expertise and strategic business acumen, setting them apart in the roofing industry.

Website | Instagram | Facebook

Topics Discussed in this Episode

00:00 Introduction to Family Business Radio
00:38 Meet “the Bowtie Banker,” Michael Miller
01:30 The Personal Touch in Banking
03:21 Long-Term Relationships and Business Banking
11:42 Introducing Adam Sims and Freedom Fencing
12:46 The No-Dig Fencing Revolution
14:47 Quality and Longevity in Fencing Materials
19:45 Client Stories and Practical Applications
28:41 Chris’s Journey from Marketing to Roofing
31:27 Terry’s Unexpected Path to Roofing
34:52 Building Trust and Community in Roofing
38:41 Key Questions for Choosing a Roofer
41:24 Understanding Roofing Materials
44:08 Signs Your Roof Needs Attention
48:10 Advice for Aspiring Entrepreneurs
53:36 Final Thoughts and Contact Information

Anthony Chen, Host of Family Business Radio

This show is sponsored and brought to you by Anthony Chen with Lighthouse Financial Network. Securities and advisory services are offered through Royal Alliance Associates, Inc. (RAA), member FINRA/SIPC. RAA is separately owned, and other entities and/or marketing names, products, or services referenced here are independent of RAA. The main office address is 575 Broadhollow Rd., Melville, NY 11747. You can reach Anthony at 631-465-9090, ext. 5075, or by email at anthonychen@lfnllc.com.

Anthony Chen started his career in financial services with MetLife in Buffalo, NY, in 2008. Born and raised in Elmhurst, Queens, he considers himself a full-blooded New Yorker while now enjoying his Atlanta, GA, home. Specializing in family businesses and their owners, Anthony works to protect what is most important to them. From preserving to creating wealth, Anthony partners with CPAs and attorneys to help address all of the concerns and help clients achieve their goals. By using a combination of financial products ranging from life, disability, and long-term care insurance to many investment options through Royal Alliance, Anthony looks to be the eyes and ears for his client’s financial foundation. In his spare time, Anthony is an avid long-distance runner.

The complete show archive of Family Business Radio can be found by following this link.

History, Nature, and Community Impact at the Autrey Mill Nature Preserve, with Lizen Hayes, Executive Director

July 18, 2024 by John Ray

John Ray, Business RadioX, and Lizen Hayes, Autrey Mill Nature Preserve

North Fulton Business Radio

History, Nature, and Community Impact at the Autrey Mill Nature Preserve, with Lizen Hayes, Executive Director

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History, Nature, and Community Impact at the Autrey Mill Nature Preserve, with Lizen Hayes, Executive Director (North Fulton Business Radio, Episode 784)

In this episode of North Fulton Business Radio, host John Ray interviews Lizen Hayes, the Executive Director of Autrey Mill Nature Preserve in Johns Creek. They discuss the history of the preserve, its unique blend of nature conservation and historical preservation, and the various programs and activities offered to the community. Lizen shares her personal journey from volunteer to executive director and highlights the preserve’s mission to connect the community with the land through education and engagement. The episode also explores the significant partnerships with local businesses and the role of volunteers in maintaining the preserve’s beauty and functionality.

John Ray is the host of North Fulton Business Radio. The show is recorded and produced from the North Fulton studio of Business RadioX® inside Renasant Bank in Alpharetta.

Lizen Hayes, Executive Director, Autrey Mill Nature Preserve

**Lizen Hayes, Autrey Mill Nature Preserve**

Lizen Hayes is a hands-on leader passionate about her work at Autrey Mill Nature Preserve and is always actively learning and engaging with the community. Lizen is also a resident of Johns Creek and North Fulton County.

Originally from the Pacific Northwest, Lizen gained experience and understanding of the struggles of the indigenous community in the Pacific Northwest and the Americas. She has a bachelor’s degree from Evergreen State College, with an emphasis in Museum Studies. She worked alongside the Squaxin Island Tribe on a joint-led archeology dig for several summers and in their Museum and Research library, leading her to the Smithsonian’s National Museum of the American Indian Cultural Resources Center.

Lizen has continued to use these experiences throughout her work at a children’s museum, a science museum, and now a nature preserve to connect local indigenous communities to institutions and organizations in equal partnerships to tell their own stories and foster relationships that may not have otherwise been offered.

Autrey Mill Nature Preserve

Autrey Mill Nature Preserve & Heritage Center is a 46-acre nature preserve and historical site located in Johns Creek, Georgia. The organization’s mission is to create a destination and educational resource that inspires exploration, appreciation, and preservation of the natural environment and local history.

Autrey Mill Nature Preserve encompasses several key features. The natural areas include 2 miles of walking trails, woodlands, wetlands, and Sal’s Creek. The preserve is home to 28 species of native trees, 58 species of native plants, and 110 native wildlife species. The Heritage Village showcases 400 years of local history through a collection of historic buildings from the 19th and early 20th centuries.

The center offers various educational programs, including homeschool programs, guided tours, and exhibits on local history and nature. Animal enthusiasts can enjoy live exhibitions of insects, reptiles, and amphibians, as well as rabbits, chickens, and ducks. The preserve also houses collections of artifacts related to early 20th-century farm life, Native American history, and local commerce.

The center serves as a haven for both humans and animals, offering a respite from the busy metro-suburban area north of Atlanta.

Website | Instagram | Facebook | X (Twitter)

Topics Discussed in this Episode

00:00 Introduction and Welcome to North Fulton Business Radio
01:24 Meet Lizen Hayes: Executive Director of Autrey Mill Nature Preserve
02:25 Lizen’s Journey to Autrey Mill
07:13 History and Operations of Autrey Mill Nature Preserve
14:35 Nature and Environmental Programs
18:43 Community Engagement and Events
26:59 Visitor Experiences and Testimonials
29:22 Upcoming Events and Final Thoughts
35:29 Closing Remarks and Sponsor Messages

Renasant Bank and Casa Nuova Italian Restaurant support North Fulton Business Radio

Casa Nuova is a proud family-owned and operated restaurant, serving classic, authentic and traditional Italian cuisine and top tier hospitality since 1998.

Website | LinkedIn | Facebook | Instagram

About North Fulton Business Radio and host John Ray

The studio address is 275 South Main Street, Alpharetta, GA 30009.

John is the national bestselling author of The Generosity Mindset: A Journey to Business Success by Raising Your Confidence, Value, and Prices.

Delivering Quality and Care in Residential Contracting, with Karlos Cabrera, Jackets Contracting

July 17, 2024 by John Ray

North Fulton Business Radio

Delivering Quality and Care in Residential Contracting, with Karlos Cabrera, Jackets Contracting

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Delivering Quality and Care in Residential Contracting, with Karlos Cabrera, Jackets Contracting (North Fulton Business Radio, Episode 783)

In this episode of North Fulton Business Radio, host John Ray interviews Karlos Cabrera from Jackets Contracting. Karlos details the comprehensive services his company offers, including remodeling projects, renovations, repairs, and insurance claim rebuilds, emphasizing a commitment to customer service. Originally from Peru and educated in civil engineering at Georgia Tech, Karlos shares his journey from working in commercial construction to establishing Jackets Contracting, which focuses on hands-on, personalized residential contracting work across the Atlanta metropolitan area. The discussion highlights how Karlos’s background in flipping houses provides valuable insight into making homes sellable, as well as his strategies for ensuring client satisfaction and trust. He shares insights on what to look for in a reliable contractor, how to handle client expectations, and success stories that highlight his company’s commitment to customer satisfaction. Karlos emphasizes accountability, quality, and building long-term client relationships.

John Ray is the host of North Fulton Business Radio. The show is recorded and produced from the North Fulton studio of Business RadioX® inside Renasant Bank in Alpharetta.

Karlos Cabrera, Founder, Jackets Contracting

Karlos Cabrera is a distinguished engineer whose academic and career trajectory have positioned him as a standout leader in the construction industry in Atlanta, Georgia. A proud alumnus of the prestigious Georgia Institute of Technology, Karlos earned his degree in 2012, gaining invaluable insights and foundational skills that have been instrumental to his career. He is known for his relentless dedication, punctuality, and unparalleled professionalism.

Upon graduation, Karlos commenced his professional journey at Holder Construction, where he excelled in multiple roles. Initially hired as a Field Engineer, his remarkable expertise and work ethic quickly led to a promotion to the position of Office Engineer. During this time, he gained hands-on experience in both field operations and administrative tasks, equipping him with a well-rounded perspective of the construction business.

Following his tenure at Holder Construction, Karlos transitioned to a prominent structural engineering firm. There, he contributed for nearly half a decade, sharpening his skills in various aspects of structural engineering and project management.

Karlos is the founder of Jackets Contracting, a rising star among residential contractors in the metro Atlanta area. Leveraging his top-tier education from Georgia Tech, Karlos has successfully infused Jackets Contracting with cutting-edge construction practices.

Jackets Contracting is your go-to expert for residential insurance claim rebuilds, remodeling, and renovations. As a leading contractor, Jackets Contracting proudly offers its specialized services in Suwanee, Johns Creek, Alpharetta, Roswell, Milton, Lawrenceville, Atlanta, Marietta, and other surrounding cities.

Website

Topics Discussed in this Episode

00:00 Introduction and Welcome
01:26 Meet Karlos Cabrera of Jackets Contracting
01:51 Services Offered by Jackets Contracting
03:31 Karlos’ Journey and Background
07:48 Transition to Business Ownership
12:44 Service Areas and Client Concerns
14:52 Tips for Hiring a Reliable Contractor
21:12 Handling Client Anxiety and Expectations

Renasant Bank and Casa Nuova Italian Restaurant support North Fulton Business Radio

Casa Nuova is a proud family-owned and operated restaurant, serving classic, authentic and traditional Italian cuisine and top tier hospitality since 1998.

Website | LinkedIn | Facebook | Instagram