John Ray Archives - Page 18 of 67

Vernalisa Rougeux, Greater North Fulton Chamber of Commerce, LIVE from the 2024 GNFCC BOLD Women’s Leadership Summit

November 22, 2024 by John Ray

LIVE from the 2024 GNFCC BOLD Women's Leadership Summit, with Vernalisa Rougeux, Greater North Fulton Chamber of Commerce, with John Ray, North Fulton Business Radio

North Fulton Business Radio

Vernalisa Rougeux, Greater North Fulton Chamber of Commerce, LIVE from the 2024 GNFCC BOLD Women's Leadership Summit

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Vernalisa Rougeux, Greater North Fulton Chamber of Commerce, LIVE from the 2024 GNFCC BOLD Women’s Leadership Summit (North Fulton Business Radio, Episode 818)

Live from the 2024 GNFCC BOLD Women’s Leadership Summit, North Fulton Business Radio host John Ray chats with Vernalisa Rougeux, the event’s logistics master. The episode delves into the history and growth of the summit, which is in its fourth year, designed for professional development and networking, primarily aimed at women but beneficial to all. Keynote speakers include Jenna Banks, Lynne Segall, and Darlene Drew. The event features special sessions like the “I Am Remarkable” workshop for Drake House mentees. Vernalisa shares insights into organizing such events and hints at exciting changes for 2025.

This interview was originally broadcast live from the 2024 GNFCC BOLD Women’s Leadership Summit held at The Commons at Phase in Alpharetta, Georgia.

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

Vernalisa Rougeux, Member Events Coordinator, Greater North Fulton Chamber of Commerce

**Host John Ray with Vernalisa Rougeux, Greater North Fulton Chamber of Commerce**

Vernalisa Rougeux is the Member Events Coordinator for the Greater North Fulton Chamber of Commerce.

The Greater North Fulton Chamber of Commerce is a private, non-profit, member-driven organization comprised of over 1,400 business enterprises, civic organizations, educational institutions, and individuals. Their service area includes Alpharetta, Johns Creek, Milton, Mountain Park, Roswell, and Sandy Springs. GNFCC is the leading voice on economic development, business growth, and quality of life issues in North Fulton County.

As a five-star accredited chamber, GNFCC’s vision is to be the premier organization driving member and community success across the region, and they are dedicated to pursuing this vision based on the guiding principles of advocacy, inclusivity, and operational excellence.

GNFCC promotes the interests of their members by assuming a leadership role in making North Fulton an excellent place to work, live, play, and stay. They provide one voice for all local businesses to influence decision-makers, recommend legislation, and protect the valuable resources that make North Fulton a popular place to live.

For more information on GNFCC and its North Fulton County service area, follow this link or call (770) 993-8806. For more information on other GNFCC events, follow this link.

Connect with Vernalisa: LinkedIn

Connect with GNFCC: Website | LinkedIn | Facebook | Instagram

Topics Discussed in this Episode

00:00 Welcome to the 2024 GNFCC BOLD Women’s Leadership Summit
00:38 Meet Vernalisa Rougeux: The Event Maestro
01:43 History and Growth of the Summit
02:53 Keynote Speakers and Highlights
04:36 Networking and Special Workshops
09:15 Looking Ahead: Future Plans and Changes
10:28 Closing Remarks and Gratitude

2024 GNFCC BOLD Women’s Leadership Summit

The 2024 GNFCC BOLD Women’s Leadership Summit was held on October 30, 2024, at The Commons at Phase in Alpharetta, Georgia.

The mission of BOLD—Businesswomen Organizing for Leadership and Development—is to connect businesswomen to build outstanding networks and spheres of influence, to collaborate with each other and with partner organizations to develop their businesses, and to celebrate and recognize the women of North Fulton.

Website

About North Fulton Business Radio and host John Ray

With over 800 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.

Public Policy and the Workforce Housing Crisis, Part 1, with Kyle Wingfield, Georgia Public Policy Foundation

November 12, 2024 by John Ray

North Fulton Studio

Public Policy and the Workforce Housing Crisis, Part 1, with Kyle Wingfield, Georgia Public Policy Foundation

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Public Policy and the Workforce Housing Crisis, Part 1, with Kyle Wingfield, Georgia Public Policy Foundation (North Fulton Voices, Episode 6)

This episode of North Fulton Voices is part one of a two-part interview with Kyle Wingfield, President and CEO of the Georgia Public Policy Foundation. Led by Jack Murphy and Nancy Diamond of the North Fulton Improvement Network, the conversation focuses on the pressing issue of workforce housing affordability in the North Fulton region as well as the State of Georgia generally. Key insights include the impact of government regulations on housing costs, the definition and challenges of middle-income housing, and the broader implications of local policies on housing affordability. The episode emphasizes the need for community engagement and innovative public policy solutions to address the workforce housing crisis in North Fulton.

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®.

Kyle Wingfield, President and CEO, Georgia Public Policy Foundation

**Kyle Wingfield, Georgia Public Policy Foundation**

Kyle Wingfield is a native of Dalton and graduate of the University of Georgia. He joined the Foundation as president and CEO in April 2018 after spending nine years as an opinion columnist for The Atlanta Journal-Constitution. He has also worked for the Wall Street Journal, based in Brussels, Belgium, from 2004 to 2009, and for the Associated Press, based in Atlanta and Montgomery, Ala., from 2001 to 2004.

At the AJC, Kyle wrote often about state politics and policy, focusing especially on education and school choice, transportation, health care, and state and local taxation. He is a frequent guest on GPB’s “Political Rewind” show and was a finalist for the Reason Foundation’s Bastiat Prize for Journalism in 2013. Kyle’s weekly column continues to appear in 10 newspapers around the state.

Kyle received the UGA Grady College’s John E. Drewry Young Alumnus Award in 2006, was named to the UGA Alumni Association’s 40 Under 40 Class of 2012 and is a member of UGA’s Board of Visitors. He is a member of Leadership Georgia’s Class of 2018 and, as an Eagle Scout, remains an active volunteer in Scouting.

Georgia Public Policy Foundation

The Georgia Public Policy Foundation is a 501(c)(3) non-profit, nonpartisan research institute with a mission to improve the lives of Georgians through public policies that enhance economic opportunity and freedom.

The Foundation believes that sound public policy is grounded in facts, an understanding of economic principles, and core values of the free enterprise system—economic freedom, limited government, personal responsibility, individual initiative, respect for private property, and the rule of law.

Since 1991, the Georgia Public Policy Foundation has conducted rigorous research and analysis of state public policy issues, striving to educate citizens, policymakers, and the media. The Foundation remains state-focused, independent, non-partisan, and market-oriented in its approach.

Each year, the Foundation hosts over a dozen events across Georgia, providing opportunities for members to discuss pressing issues with leaders in politics, education, media, and business. Past speakers include Presidents of the United States, U.S. Speakers of the House, Supreme Court Justices, U.S. senators, representatives, presidential candidates, ambassadors, state officials, governors, members of the national media, and local business leaders.

Website | LinkedIn | Facebook | X (Twitter)

Topics Discussed in this Episode

00:00 Introduction and Series Overview
00:53 Welcome to North Fulton Voices
01:18 Discussing Workforce Housing
01:39 Data on Housing Affordability
04:35 Interview with Kyle Wingfield, Georgia Public Policy Foundation
05:46 Kyle Wingfield’s Background
07:15 The Importance of Respectful Disagreement
11:57 Government’s Role in Housing Costs
16:47 Local Regulations and Their Impact
19:25 Comparative Analysis of Housing Regulations
26:33 Challenges and Solutions for Workforce Housing
31:13 Conclusion and Next Steps

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.

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. North Fulton Voices, presented by the North Fulton Improvement Network, 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 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

Supporting Georgians with Hemophilia, with Vic McCarty, Hemophilia of Georgia

November 11, 2024 by John Ray

North Fulton Business Radio

Supporting Georgians with Hemophilia, with Vic McCarty, Hemophilia of Georgia

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Supporting Georgians with Hemophilia, with Vic McCarty, Hemophilia of Georgia (North Fulton Business Radio, Episode 816)

In this episode of North Fulton Business Radio, John Ray interviews Vic McCarty, Chief Community Engagement Officer with Hemophilia of Georgia. Vic discusses the organization’s extensive work in supporting individuals with blood clotting disorders, providing education, resources, and specialized care throughout Georgia. The conversation covers Hemophilia of Georgia’s history, the impact on affected families, and the various events and programs that support their mission. Listeners also learn about Vic’s career journey in the nonprofit sector and the diverse ways the organization assists clients from birth through adulthood. The episode concludes with information on how to support and volunteer with Hemophilia of Georgia.

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

Hemophilia of Georgia

Hemophilia of Georgia (HoG) is a nationally and internationally recognized nonprofit organization that provides programs and support services for people with hemophilia, von Willebrand Disease, and other bleeding disorders. HoG is the only agency of its kind in the state and is dedicated to enhancing the health and wellness of the bleeding disorder community by providing excellence in comprehensive health care, education, advocacy, and the support of research to transform lives.

Since 1973, Hemophilia of Georgia has been providing blood clotting medications, home infusion training, educational programs, and clinical services. The Georgia General Assembly has honored Hemophilia of Georgia (HoG) every year for the exceptional work that the organization and its staff have done in serving the community of people with bleeding disorders over the past ten years. Dedicated to their mission, the people at Hemophilia of Georgia know it takes more than medicine to support the bleeding disorder community.

HoG works to enhance health care and quality of life, while actively pursuing a cure through research funding. Hemophilia of Georgia looks forward to the day when we live in a world where people live free from bleeding disorders.

HoG is a trusted resource for medical providers and offers rewarding opportunities for volunteers and donors.
HoG’s nonprofit pharmacy provides convenient home delivery of clotting factor and other medications at competitive prices.
HoG is guided by a volunteer Board of Directors that includes individuals who have a bleeding disorder.
For 50 years, Hemophilia of Georgia has provided a wide range of programs and services, including blood clotting products, home infusion training, education, and activities for people who have hemophilia and other bleeding disorders.

Hemophilia of Georgia exists so that people affected by bleeding disorders live as normally and productively as possible.

Website | LinkedIn | Facebook | Instagram | X (Twitter)

Vic McCarty, Hemophilia of Georgia

Vic McCarty currently serves as Chief Community Engagement Officer at Hemophilia of Georgia.

Since 2000, Vic has been involved in nonprofit organizations and fundraising, where he has been creating and improving signature events, managing budgets and timelines, and working closely with planning committees and volunteers. Vic is responsible for creating the Trot to Clot Walk event for Hemophilia of Georgia.

Vic also has a strong background in strategic and visionary planning, engaging community stakeholders, securing charitable support from corporations, and providing training for event committees and volunteers. He has worked with business executives, community leaders, college students, and internal staff on creating and implementing signature events as well as developing vision plans and timelines for signature events. Vic has worked with several nonprofit youth organizations, serving as both a volunteer and staff member.

Vic resides in Marietta with his wife, Shanie, and two kids. He enjoys traveling, cooking, spending time with family and friends, and volunteering with Georgia 4-H Foundation.

Topics Discussed in this Episode

00:00 Introduction and Welcome to North Fulton Business Radio
00:35 Guest Introduction: Vic McCarty, Hemophilia of Georgia
02:01 Understanding Hemophilia
03:19 Vic’s Journey in Nonprofit
04:45 Community Engagement and Support
07:57 Family Support and Education
14:00 Patient Assistance and Resources
19:11 Fundraising and Community Events
21:51 Volunteer Opportunities
25:12 Success Stories and Impact
28:09 Closing Remarks and Contact Information

Renasant Bank supports 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 $17 billion in assets and more than 180 banking, lending, wealth management, and financial services offices throughout the region. 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.

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.

Expert Insights on Health Insurance, with Bill Neglia, Neglia Insurance Group

November 11, 2024 by John Ray

North Fulton Business Radio

Expert Insights on Health Insurance, with Bill Neglia, Neglia Insurance Group

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Expert Insights on Health Insurance, with Bill Neglia, Neglia Insurance (North Fulton Business Radio, Episode 815)

In this episode of North Fulton Business Radio, host John Ray welcomes returning guest Bill Neglia from the Neglia Insurance Group. They discuss the intricacies of open enrollment for health insurance, particularly notable changes for the current year, and highlight the benefits of working with a professional insurance agent. Bill explains the impact of recent adjustments to short-term major medical policies and the introduction of Georgia’s own state-based insurance exchange, Georgia Access. The conversation also touches on common pitfalls for individuals purchasing health insurance themselves, issues related to robocall fraud, key considerations for business owners offering health benefits to employees, and Medicare enrollment.

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

Bill Neglia, Founder, Neglia Insurance Group

Inspired by a family friend’s offer of mentorship, Bill started his career in insurance over 40 years ago. He was drawn to the autonomy of the industry and the desire to make a difference in people’s lives. This commitment was underscored when a meeting led a client to discover a life-threatening heart condition, which reaffirmed the importance of his role.

To best serve his clients, Bill begins with a comprehensive questionnaire, ensuring he understands their unique needs before discussing solutions. Guided by transparency and genuine care, he always prioritizes the client’s interest, setting him apart in the industry.

Outside work, rock concerts are his escape, where he sees parallels to his profession: individual performers coming together for a harmonious result. That balance is pivotal in his personal life too. When his wife, Sandy, faced a cancer diagnosis, he became her primary caregiver. This period cemented his belief in the importance of personal connection and empathy in his business.

His family is his inspiration. With Sandy, their children Danny and Caitlin, and six grandchildren, he finds joy in spending time with them, either at home or traveling with his family. Whether it’s golf with his son, watching sports, or being amused by their five granddogs, these experiences enrich his interactions with clients.

Bill’s not just your insurance agent with decades of experience, but he’s a compassionate adviser committed to serving your individual and family needs.

Neglia Insurance Group

Bill Neglia started his health, life, disability, and long-term care insurance agency in 1983 as a one-person operation.

Since then he has added a full time Office Administrator Charlotte, his son Dan and his son-in-law Zach to the team. The agency specializes in working with mainly self-employed individuals, their families and their employees to make sure they have the most suitable and cost effective health insurance and other benefit insurance plans available.

Bill’s team uses a comprehensive “hands-on” approach from initial contact to quoting to enrollment and to servicing the policy after the sale.

Bill and his team have never charged their clients a penny for their time and professional services. They are compensated by the insurance carriers themselves. The premium you pay is exactly the same whether you use Bill and his team or do it yourself.

Website | Facebook

Topics Discussed in this Episode

00:00 Introduction to North Fulton Business Radio
01:32 Guest Introduction: Bill Neglia, Neglia Insurance Group
02:04 Health Insurance Changes and Updates
05:02 The Importance of Using a Broker
09:03 Fraud and Robo Calls in Health Insurance
11:21 Alternative Health Insurance Plans
13:39 Group Insurance Plans for Businesses
17:24 Medicare Supplement Plans
20:21 Conclusion and Contact Information

Renasant Bank supports North Fulton Business Radio

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.

Navigating HR Challenges, with Scott Mastley, Thread HCM

November 6, 2024 by John Ray

North Fulton Business Radio

Navigating HR Challenges, with Scott Mastley, Thread HCM

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Navigating HR Challenges, with Scott Mastley, Thread HCM (North Fulton Business Radio, Episode 814)

In this episode of North Fulton Business Radio, host John Ray interviews Scott Mastley, Chief Human Relations Officer at Thread HCM. The discussion delves into Thread’s HR software and services, emphasizing their focus on efficiency, top-tier payroll technology, and unique HR consulting services. Scott shares his unconventional journey into HR, the importance of personal and proactive client relationships, and the evolving landscape of HR regulations, including multi-state compliance and remote work challenges. He also touches on trends like unlimited PTO and cannabis regulations, offering practical advice for business owners. Scott’s insights provide valuable guidance for small to medium-sized businesses looking to enhance their HR practices.

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

Scott Mastley, Chief Human Relations Officer, Thread HCM

Scott joined Thread in 2019 to develop and manage our HR Consulting services. Scott is a double Dawg with undergraduate and MBA degrees from UGA, and he is passionate about simplifying HR to support engagement.

Scott is interested in your challenges and enthusiastic about finding solutions and proactively preventing future issues. His confidence comes from 25 years of hands-on consulting, HR work, and leading HR teams with clients across multiple industries.

Thread HCM

Thread offers a way for businesses to make HR an advantage. The company believes in better workplaces, engaged employees, and peace of mind for the C-Suite.

At its core, Thread offers a top-tier technology platform that over 100,000 businesses trust and that serves over 5,000,000 employees. This all-in-one solution offers a superior approach to hiring, managing, and growing teams. With a scalable system and a variety of offerings, the iSolved platform is designed to grow alongside its clients.

Thread offers a partner relationship approach to working with clients, backed by quick, individualized service from a support team that is familiar with each business. The company believes time is valuable and doesn’t intend to waste any of it. Live response times and NPS Customer Satisfaction ratings are posted right on its website.

Lastly, Thread is a business like its clients. With a team of amazing people doing great work for their clients, Thread achieves success in turn. As a recipient of GPTW awards several years in a row, Thread aims to be a company its employees love and where candidates are eager to join. The company wants that same success for its clients and their teams too.

Website | LinkedIn | Facebook | Instagram | X (Twitter)

Topics Discussed in this Episode

00:00 Introduction and Welcome to North Fulton Business Radio
00:36 Guest Introduction: Scott Mastley from Thread
02:46 Scott’s Journey into HR
04:20 HR Consulting at Thread
07:10 Challenges in HR: Multi-State Regulations
12:19 Cannabis in the Workplace
15:13 Remote Workforces Post-Pandemic
16:17 Effective Communication in Remote Work
17:28 Maintaining Productivity and Connection
18:27 Hybrid Work Models and Their Benefits
21:31 Challenges of Unlimited PTO Policies
24:04 Upcoming Salary Threshold Changes
26:15 Client Success Stories and Services
29:22 Contact Information and Closing Remarks

Renasant Bank supports North Fulton Business Radio

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.

Lighting Up Business Success, with Matthew Efird, Lighting Pros

November 6, 2024 by John Ray

North Fulton Business Radio

Lighting Up Business Success, with Matthew Efird, Lighting Pros

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Lighting Up Business Success, with Matthew Efird, Lighting Pros (North Fulton Business Radio, Episode 813)

The owner of Lighting Pros, Matthew Efird, joins host John Ray in this episode of North Fulton Business Radio. They discuss Matthew’s innovative approach to business, adding an outdoor lighting business to his seasonal Mosquito Joe franchise. Matthew elaborates on how his company, Lighting Pros, specializes in both residential and commercial lighting, with a notable focus on year-round outdoor lighting solutions, including temporary Christmas decorations and permanent installations. He highlights the importance of using high-quality materials and providing exceptional service, which has led to increased client satisfaction and retention. Matthew also touches on his experiences receiving the Bulldog 100 accolade and the decision to franchise Lighting Pros to help other seasonal business owners extend their operations.

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

Matthew Efird, Founder, Lighting Pros

Matthew Efird, Lighting Pros, appearing on North Fulton Business Radio with host John Ray — **Matthew Efird, Lighting Pros**

Matthew Efird is the Owner of Mosquito Joe of North Georgia, Lighting Pros, and Lighting Pros Franchise. He sees his business as an avenue for serving and ministering to families throughout the Greater Atlanta area as well as to business owners throughout the United States.

Matthew and his lovely wife Hannah have four sons: Walker (6 years old), Noah, Abel (3 years old), Warren (1 year old), and a 9-year-old Goldendoodle named Fallon. Their second son, Noah Clifton Efird, was born on March 7, 2020, with Trisomy 13, and their family is thankful for the hours that they were able to spend with him before he went to be with Jesus. As a family, they love to travel, play board games and cards, go camping, and make memories with friends and family.

Matthew graduated with honors from The University of Georgia’s Terry College of Business. In 2024, he was proud to have Lighting Pros recognized as the 10th fastest-growing business founded or managed by a UGA Alumni. He was part of the inaugural UGA ILA Leadership Dawgs class of 2023, recognizing and investing in the emerging leaders within the UGA Alumni.

Matthew is driven by his faith and his love for people. He was honored in 2019 with the first-ever Union County High School Alumni Pacesetter Award, recognizing the most outstanding alumni setting the pace for the school’s alumnus. In his free time, Matthew loves speaking, reading, writing, and teaching his sons how to enjoy the outdoors. He and Hannah find fulfillment in serving others alongside each other.

He is excited to take the knowledge from the last five years of triple-digit growth in Lighting Pros and share it with his franchise system. His focus now is on investing in the long-term development of his teams to help his businesses continue to grow effectively. His greatest accomplishments in life have been marrying his beautiful wife and becoming a dad.

Lighting Pros

Lighting Pros is a premier provider of commercial holiday lighting solutions, specializing in creating festive atmospheres for businesses such as HOAs, hospitals, restaurants, and churches. The company focuses on delivering high-quality, professional Christmas lighting services, employing certified and insured professionals to ensure safe and durable installations. They also offer residential services, treating each home with care while providing a variety of decorative options, including roofer and gutterline lights, prelit wreaths and garlands, and custom orders tailored to client needs.

With a commitment to using only the finest materials, Lighting Pros aims to create memorable holiday experiences that last throughout the season. Their dedication to excellence has earned them recognition as one of the top 10 fastest-growing companies by the University of Georgia Alumni through the Bulldog 100 program. Clients can easily discuss their holiday lighting goals and receive complimentary quotes to transform their spaces into festive environments.

Website | Facebook | Instagram | LinkedIn

Topics Discussed in this Episode

00:00 Introduction and Welcome
01:41 Meet Matthew Efird, Founder of Lighting Pros
02:25 The Business of Outdoor Lighting
03:18 Commercial Success and the ROI of Outdoor Lighting
04:44 Matthew’s Backstory and Business Philosophy
06:57 Challenges and Quality in the Lighting Industry
22:00 Franchising Lighting Pros
26:17 Success Stories and Client Impact
29:10 Conclusion and Contact Information
30:07 Final Thoughts and Announcements

Renasant Bank supports North Fulton Business Radio

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.

Building a Business Through Acquisitions, with Joe Noonan, Inside EDGE Consulting

October 30, 2024 by John Ray

Insights from a Serial Acquirer, with Joe Noonan, Inside EDGE Consulting, on The Exit Exchange podcast with host John Ray

North Fulton Studio

Building a Business Through Acquisitions, with Joe Noonan, Inside EDGE Consulting

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Building a Business Through Acquisitions, with Joe Noonan, Inside EDGE Consulting (The Exit Exchange, Episode 19)

In this episode of The Exit Exchange, Joe Noonan joins host John Ray to offer a reprise of the story he shared during a recent XPX Atlanta lunch session on building a business through serial acquisitions. They discuss Joe’s evolution from co-owning a printing company to becoming a successful Proforma franchise owner. Key points include strategies for effective business acquisitions, the impact of choosing the right partners, and leveraging business resources like brokers and wealth advisors. Joe also emphasizes the importance of maintaining strong customer relationships and the role of expert coaching in avoiding common business pitfalls. Highlights include personalized acquisition tactics, strategic pricing, and the collaborative support available through XPX Atlanta.

The host of The Exit Exchange is John Ray, and the show is produced by John Ray and the North Fulton affiliate of Business RadioX®. John Ray and Business RadioX-North Fulton are Gold Sponsors of XPX Atlanta.

Joe Noonan, Inside EDGE Consulting

Joe Noonan is the Head Coach at Inside EDGE Consulting, where he specializes in empowering CEOs, sales leaders, and entrepreneurs to refine their go-to-market strategies and address challenges in sales and leadership. With a mission to “cure sales and leadership pain,” Joe leverages his expertise as a certified professional speaker and sales coach to provide impactful training and guidance. His approach focuses on building strong team cultures and fostering determination among team members, which he effectively communicates through engaging content on platforms like LinkedIn.

With extensive experience in sales and leadership coaching, Joe has developed tailored programs that address common pain points within organizations, ensuring they achieve sustainable growth. His commitment to continuous learning is reflected in his professional credentials, and he actively contributes to community initiatives as a board member for various organizations.

Joe’s dedication to enhancing organizational effectiveness makes him a valuable asset for businesses seeking to elevate their leadership capabilities and sales strategies.

Website | LinkedIn

Topics Discussed in this Episode

00:00 Introduction to The Exit Exchange
00:30 Meet Joe Noonan: Business Acquirer and Seller
01:52 Inside EDGE Coaching: Empowering Leaders
03:04 The Journey of Unlimited Printing
03:32 Lessons from Business Partnerships
06:21 Transition to Proforma Franchise
09:14 Acquisition Strategies and Sales Tactics
15:51 Marketing to Solopreneurs
16:55 Deal Structure Insights
20:34 The Role of Business Brokers
21:53 Identifying Red Flags
23:01 Financials and Due Diligence
24:47 The Value of Acquisitions
27:33 The Importance of Advisors
29:15 Final Thoughts and Contact Information

The Exit Planning Exchange Atlanta

The Exit Planning Exchange Atlanta (XPX) is a diverse group of professionals with a common goal: working collaboratively to assist business owners with a sale or business transition. XPX Atlanta is an association of advisors who provide professionalism, principles, and education to the heart of the middle market.

Their members work with business owners through all stages of the private company life cycle: business value growth, business value transfer, and owner life and legacy. Their Vision: To fundamentally change the trajectory of exit planning services in the Southeast United States. XPX Atlanta delivers a collaborative-based networking exchange with broad representation of exit planning competencies. Learn more about XPX Atlanta and why you should consider joining our community by following this link.

The host of The Exit Exchange is John Ray, and the show is produced by the North Fulton affiliate of Business RadioX® in Alpharetta. The show archive can be found by following this link.

John Ray and Business RadioX North Fulton are Gold Sponsors of XPX Atlanta.

Becoming a More Thoughtful Leader, with Randy Hain, Author and Executive Coach

October 30, 2024 by John Ray

North Fulton Business Radio

Becoming a More Thoughtful Leader, with Randy Hain, Author and Executive Coach

00:00 /

Becoming a More Thoughtful Leader, with Randy Hain, Author and Executive Coach (North Fulton Business Radio, Episode 812)

In this episode of North Fulton Business Radio, host John Ray welcomes Randy Hain to discuss his latest book, Becoming a More Thoughtful Leader. The conversation covers several key themes of the book, including being a considerate and attentive leader. Randy shares practical insights on improving leadership skills, such as the importance of workspace environment, maintaining connections, and the art of walking for reflection. They also discuss Randy’s philosophy of leading with generosity and actionable advice for busy professionals. This episode is packed with strategies for meaningful personal and professional growth.

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

Randy Hain, Author of Becoming a More Thoughtful Leader

Randy Hain is the founder and president of Serviam Partners (ServiamPartners.com) and the co-founder of the Leadership Foundry (MyLeadershipFoundry.com).

With a successful 30+ year career in senior leadership roles, corporate talent and executive search, Randy is a sought-after executive coach for senior leaders at some of the best-known companies in the U.S. and globally who are seeking candid and expert guidance on how to overcome obstacles to their success or develop new leadership skills.

Randy is a husband, father, and active community leader and serves on the boards of the causes he cares about most. Randy has earned a reputation as a creative business partner and generous thought leader through his books, articles and speaking engagements.

Randy is the award-winning author of 11 books, including the newly released Becoming a More Thoughtful Leader, and a past guest of our show.

Topics Discussed in this Episode

00:00 Introduction and Welcome
01:34 Meet Randy Hain: Author and Executive Coach
02:38 Exploring the Concept of Thoughtfulness
03:52 Practical Tips for Thoughtful Leadership
07:55 The Importance of Workspace
11:33 Addressing Workplace Disconnectedness
13:40 The Power of Simple Gestures
16:20 The Art of Walking and Reflection
20:58 Generosity in Leadership
26:50 Conclusion and Contact Information

Renasant Bank supports North Fulton Business Radio

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.

Taylor English: A Unique Legal Model for Client Success, with Marc Taylor and Michele Stumpe

October 23, 2024 by John Ray

North Fulton Business Radio

Taylor English: A Unique Legal Model for Client Success, with Marc Taylor and Michele Stumpe

00:00 /

Taylor English: A Unique Legal Model for Client Success, with Marc Taylor and Michele Stumpe (North Fulton Business Radio, Episode 811)

In this episode of North Fulton Business Radio, host John Ray welcomes Marc Taylor and Michele Stumpe, partners at Taylor English, as they discuss the rapid growth and client-focused approach of their law firm. Taylor English started with just four lawyers in the mid-2000s and has expanded to around 140 attorneys across multiple states. The conversation highlights the firm’s unique value-driven philosophy, real-time compensation system, and emphasis on personal care for their professionals, flexibility, and entrepreneurial spirit. Marc and Michele explain how these elements attract top legal talent and cater to small and midsized businesses while maintaining strong client relationships. Michele shares her transition from big law and highlights the firm’s community involvement, including support for charities like The Giving Kitchen. The discussion also covers the firm’s commitment to core values amidst growth, fostering a collaborative culture among staff, and staying purpose-driven to provide unique client value.

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

Taylor English Duma LLP

Taylor English Duma LLP is a full-service law firm headquartered in Atlanta, GA. Built from the ground up to provide highest-quality legal services for optimal value, the firm combines the best aspects of a traditional law firm with seasoned attorneys managing their practices throughout the United States.

Together, their attorneys work each day to provide timely, creative, and cost-effective counsel to help clients solve problems and achieve goals. Taylor English represents all types of clients, from Fortune 500 companies to start ups to individuals.

The firm is the Georgia law firm member of GGI Global Alliance AG, the leading worldwide alliance of accounting and law firms.

Website | LinkedIn | X (Twitter) | YouTube

Marc Taylor, Partner, Taylor English Duma LLP

Innovative corporate leadership and its positive impact on his clients’ success is Marc Taylor’s passion. Mr. Taylor believes in seizing opportunities for his clients, representing many industry sectors with both astute conscientiousness and considered pragmatism. From organizational policy reviews to multimillion-dollar transactions through to exit strategies, Mr. Taylor has provided corporate counsel to businesses and their executives with an eye on their future.

Along with his colleagues, Mr. Taylor has helped drive the growth of Taylor English from four lawyers to approximately 180 lawyers today, making the firm the fastest-growing law firm in Georgia and one of the fastest-growing firms in the country. In his law practice, he represents management in corporate leadership, litigation and risk mitigation and labor and employment relationships.

When corporate matters lead to litigation, Mr. Taylor has proudly advocated for clients in hundreds of matters. He is comfortable leading the defense of his clients due to his experience as trial counsel in federal and state courts throughout the country.

In representations involving employees, Mr. Taylor handles matters for employers ranging from individual and class action discrimination lawsuits to state law defamation and tort claims. Mr. Taylor has successfully represented employers in federal and state courts, as well as administrative proceedings before the Equal Employment Opportunity Commission (EEOC), National Labor Relations Board (NLRB), Occupational Safety and Health Administration (OSHA), U.S. Department of Labor (DOL) and various state agencies in more than 30 states.

Before forming Taylor English Duma LLP, Mr. Taylor practiced law at an Atlanta-based, full service law firm, serving as a partner from 1997-2005 and as in-house employment counsel at Medaphis Corp. (now McKesson Corp.), a company with more than 10,000 employees, from 1995-1997. While serving as in-house employment counsel, he was responsible for investigating and handling all employment-related disputes. In this role, he developed and implemented nationwide employment law training programs and an alternative dispute resolution program that succeeded in reducing Medaphis’ employment-related lawsuits by 75 percent in a two-year period.

Mr. Taylor has been a frequent speaker at seminars that focus on topics involving a full range of law firm and legal department management, corporate strategy and employment relationship issues.

He is married and has three children.

Firm Website | LinkedIn

Michele Stumpe, Partner, Taylor English Duma LLP

Michele Stumpe is a seasoned litigator with both plaintiff and defense experience who is a trusted adviser to clients in the hospitality and retail industries. Ms. Stumpe is a certified mediator both in Georgia and East Africa. At Taylor English, she focuses her practice on hospitality and dram shop litigation, alcohol licensing and consulting, premises liability and dispute resolution. Known as one of the top attorneys in the Southeast for alcohol licensing and permits, Ms. Stumpe provides clients with a full range of services, including licensing, training, policy implementation, risk management, and legal representation.

In addition to her hospitality practice, Ms. Stumpe represents individuals and corporations in general litigation matters. She is a strategic partner who helps evaluate clients’ policies, procedures and implementation to minimize litigation risks. Ms. Stumpe is also passionate about early case assessment and resolution. She provides consulting services for various trade associations, including the Georgia Restaurant Association (GRA), Georgia Food Industry Association (GFIA) and the Georgia Association of Convenience Stores (GACS). In 2002, she developed “The Responsible Alcohol Sales & Service” (RASS) workshops to educate hospitality owners on the legal responsibilities of serving alcohol to consumers. The program was so well received that many Georgia jurisdictions now require attendance as a prerequisite to obtaining an alcohol license.

Business groups frequently ask Ms. Stumpe to speak on early case resolution, negotiation, conflict resolution and alcohol sales compliance issues. She has been a featured speaker at trade associations, legal education and law enforcement seminars, and consumer radio programs. Her exemplary work has been recognized through a host of awards, including the Georgia Restaurant Association Chairman’s Award, Atlanta Magazine’s Women Making a Mark and a special Conservation Award presented by Jane Goodall.

Ms. Stumpe enjoys volunteer work, scuba diving, gardening and golf when not practicing law. She is a co-founder of The Giving Kitchen, an Atlanta non-profit organization that provides crisis medical funds to employees in the hospitality industry. Ms. Stumpe also travels to Africa annually to work with underprivileged children and endangered wildlife through another non-profit that she co-founded, Children of Conservation. The organization provides scholarships to over 400 schoolchildren in Africa.

Firm Website | LinkedIn

Topics Discussed in this Episode

00:00 Introduction and Welcome to North Fulton Business Radio
01:46 Meet the Guests: Marc Taylor and Michele Stumpe
02:02 The Story of Taylor English
03:34 Growth and Client Service Philosophy
05:33 Michele’s Journey and Entrepreneurial Spirit
09:12 The Unique Model of Taylor English
15:26 Client Relationships and Firm Culture
16:51 Adapting to New Challenges
18:42 Client Relationships and Problem Solving
19:36 Handling Client Pain Points
21:23 Challenges of Rapid Growth
23:26 Expanding in Other Metro Regions
27:31 Maintaining the Original Vision
32:44 Contact Information and Closing Remarks

Renasant Bank supports North Fulton Business Radio

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.

Vernalisa Rougeux, Greater North Fulton Chamber of Commerce, LIVE from the 2024 GNFCC BOLD Women’s Leadership Summit (North Fulton Business Radio, Episode 818)

Vernalisa Rougeux, Member Events Coordinator, Greater North Fulton Chamber of Commerce

Topics Discussed in this Episode

2024 GNFCC BOLD Women’s Leadership Summit

About North Fulton Business Radio and host John Ray

Public Policy and the Workforce Housing Crisis, Part 1, with Kyle Wingfield, Georgia Public Policy Foundation (North Fulton Voices, Episode 6)

Kyle Wingfield, President and CEO, Georgia Public Policy Foundation

Georgia Public Policy Foundation

Topics Discussed in this Episode

North Fulton Improvement Network

Jack Murphy

Nancy Diamond

About North Fulton Voices

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

Supporting Georgians with Hemophilia, with Vic McCarty, Hemophilia of Georgia (North Fulton Business Radio, Episode 816)

Hemophilia of Georgia

Vic McCarty, Hemophilia of Georgia

Topics Discussed in this Episode

Renasant Bank supports North Fulton Business Radio

About North Fulton Business Radio and host John Ray

Expert Insights on Health Insurance, with Bill Neglia, Neglia Insurance (North Fulton Business Radio, Episode 815)

Bill Neglia, Founder, Neglia Insurance Group

Neglia Insurance Group

Topics Discussed in this Episode

Renasant Bank supports North Fulton Business Radio

About North Fulton Business Radio and host John Ray

Navigating HR Challenges, with Scott Mastley, Thread HCM (North Fulton Business Radio, Episode 814)

Scott Mastley, Chief Human Relations Officer, Thread HCM

Thread HCM

Topics Discussed in this Episode

Renasant Bank supports North Fulton Business Radio

About North Fulton Business Radio and host John Ray

Lighting Up Business Success, with Matthew Efird, Lighting Pros (North Fulton Business Radio, Episode 813)

Matthew Efird, Founder, Lighting Pros

Lighting Pros

Topics Discussed in this Episode

Renasant Bank supports North Fulton Business Radio

About North Fulton Business Radio and host John Ray

Building a Business Through Acquisitions, with Joe Noonan, Inside EDGE Consulting (The Exit Exchange, Episode 19)

Joe Noonan, Inside EDGE Consulting

Topics Discussed in this Episode

The Exit Planning Exchange Atlanta

Becoming a More Thoughtful Leader, with Randy Hain, Author and Executive Coach (North Fulton Business Radio, Episode 812)

Randy Hain, Author of Becoming a More Thoughtful Leader

Topics Discussed in this Episode

Renasant Bank supports North Fulton Business Radio

About North Fulton Business Radio and host John Ray

Taylor English: A Unique Legal Model for Client Success, with Marc Taylor and Michele Stumpe (North Fulton Business Radio, Episode 811)

Taylor English Duma LLP

Marc Taylor, Partner, Taylor English Duma LLP

Michele Stumpe, Partner, Taylor English Duma LLP

Topics Discussed in this Episode

Renasant Bank supports North Fulton Business Radio

About North Fulton Business Radio and host John Ray

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