John Ray Archives - Page 18 of 65

Embracing Disruptive Innovation in Professional Services with Natalie Born, Author, Set It on Fire: The Art of Innovation

October 2, 2024 by John Ray

Embracing Disruptive Innovation in Professional Services with Natalie Born, Author, Set It on Fire, on The Price and Value Journey podcast with host John Ray

North Fulton Studio

Embracing Disruptive Innovation in Professional Services with Natalie Born, Author, Set It on Fire: The Art of Innovation

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Embracing Disruptive Innovation in Professional Services with Natalie Born, Author, Set It on Fire: The Art of Innovation (The Price and Value Journey, Episode 115)

In this episode of The Price and Value Journey, John Ray hosts Natalie Born, an innovation expert and principal consultant at Arch + Tower, to discuss innovation in professional services and the impact of AI and other disruptive technologies on professional services. Natalie emphasizes the importance of balancing automation with relationship-building, outlining ways organizations can use AI to enhance productivity and client experiences. The conversation delves into strategies for fostering a culture of innovation, establishing governance around AI usage, and ensuring AI augments rather than replaces human capabilities. Natalie also shares insights on maintaining the perception of value and pricing services effectively in an AI-influenced market. Listeners are encouraged to focus on co-creating solutions with clients to ensure relevance and effectiveness.

The Price and Value Journey is presented by John Ray and produced by the North Fulton affiliate of Business RadioX®.

Natalie Born, Arch + Tower, and Author, Set It on Fire: The Art of Innovation

Natalie Born is a member of Frazier & Deeter’s Advisory Practice and a Principal Consultant with Arch + Tower, an FD Company. She specializes in helping businesses develop and implement effective strategies to exceed their goals, grow their topline revenue and achieve award-winning results.

Natalie is the host of a top 25 innovation podcast, Innovation Meets Leadership, that is listened to in over 80 countries. She authored the book, Set It on Fire: The Art of Innovation. Natalie has collaborated on two approved US patents and has over 20 years of experience leading product development, strategy, and innovation teams working globally in over 18 countries. Natalie has worked with organizations such as CareerBuilder, First Data, IHG, and ADP, leading major initiatives in over 18 countries.

Topics Discussed in this Interview

00:00 Introduction to The Price and Value Journey
00:37 Meet Natalie Born: Innovation Expert
01:59 The Role of Automation in Professional Services
04:02 Historical Perspective on Technology and AI
04:38 AI Adoption Across Industries
09:28 Fostering a Culture of Innovation
17:11 Balancing Technology and Human Touch
22:10 Practical AI Applications in Professional Services
25:41 Amazon’s Daily Upload Limit
26:24 AI’s Impact on Content Perception
27:30 The Hype vs. Heart Debate
28:35 Using AI to Enhance Client Value
29:09 Defining AI Governance in Organizations
30:08 Scaling AI for Organizational Success
33:23 The Importance of Client Feedback
35:44 Measuring and Pricing Value
39:57 The Role of Change Management
42:05 Conclusion

About The Price and Value Journey

The title of this show describes the journey all professional service providers are on: building a services practice by seeking to convince the world of the value we offer, helping clients achieve the outcomes they desire, and trying to do all that at pricing that reflects the value we deliver.

If you feel like you’re working too hard for too little money in your solo or small firm practice, this show is for you. Even if you’re reasonably happy with your practice, you’ll hear ways to improve both your bottom line and the mindset you bring to your business.

The show is hosted and produced by John Ray and the North Fulton studio of Business RadioX®. The show can also be found on all the major podcast apps. The complete show archive is here.

John Ray, Host of The Price and Value Journey

John Ray, Author of The Generosity Mindset and Host of "The Price and Value Journey" — John Ray, Author of *The Generosity Mindset* and Host of *The Price and Value Journey*

John Ray is the host of The Price and Value Journey.

John owns Ray Business Advisors, a business advisory practice. John’s services include business coaching and advisory work, as well as advising solopreneurs and small professional services firms on their pricing. John is passionate about the power of pricing for business owners, as changing pricing is the fastest way to change the profitability of a business. His clients are professionals who are selling their expertise, such as attorneys, CPAs, accountants and bookkeepers, consultants, coaches, marketing professionals, and other professional services practitioners.

In his other business, John is a Show Host and Producer and owns the North Fulton (Georgia) studio 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 is also the host of North Fulton Business Radio. 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 its region like no one else.

John’s book, The Generosity Mindset: A Journey to Business Success by Raising Your Confidence, Value, and Prices

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

If you are a professional services provider, your goal is to do transformative work for clients you love working with and get paid commensurate with the value you deliver to those clients. While negative mindsets can inhibit your growth, adopting a different mindset, The Generosity Mindset™, can replace those self-limiting beliefs. The Generosity Mindset enables you to diagnose and communicate the value you deliver to clients and, in turn, more effectively price to receive a portion of that value.

Whether you’re a consultant, coach, marketing or branding professional, business advisor, attorney, CPA, or work in virtually any other professional services discipline, your content and technical expertise are not proprietary. What’s unique, though, is your experience and how you synthesize and deliver your knowledge. What’s special is your demeanor or the way you deal with your best-fit clients. What’s invaluable is how you deliver great value by guiding people through massive changes in their personal lives and in their businesses that bring them to a place they never thought possible.

The combination of all these elements is quite different for you compared to any other service provider in your industry. Therein lies your value, but it’s not the value you see. It’s the value your best-fit customers see in you.

If pricing your value feels uncomfortable or unfamiliar to you, this book will teach you why putting a price on the value your clients perceive and identify serves both them and you, and you’ll learn the factors involved in getting your price right.

The book is available at all major physical and online book retailers worldwide. Follow this link for further details.

Connect with John Ray:

Website | LinkedIn | Twitter

Business RadioX®: LinkedIn | Twitter | Facebook | Instagram

PALS Summit 2024, with Mollie Lacher, Professionals of After Loss Services

September 30, 2024 by John Ray

North Fulton Business Radio

PALS Summit 2024, with Mollie Lacher, Professionals of After Loss Services

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PALS Summit 2024, with Mollie Lacher, Professionals of After Loss Services (North Fulton Business Radio, Episode 806)

In this episode of North Fulton Business Radio, host John Ray speaks with Mollie Lacher, founder of Sunny Care Services and co-founder of the Professionals of After Loss Services (PALS). Mollie discusses the emerging field of after loss care, a profession she helped pioneer to support grieving families with practical tasks following a loved one’s death. She shares her personal story of loss that inspired her to start her business and explains the services provided by after loss professionals. Mollie also talks about the founding of PALS along with co-founders Rachel Donnelly and Jasmine Hathaway and the goals of this unique organization. The discussion also covers the upcoming PALS Summit 2024 in Atlanta, designed to foster community, provide education, and offer business management support to those in the after loss profession. This episode underscores the importance of recognizing and supporting this new industry aimed at easing the burden on grieving families.

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.

Professionals of After Loss Services (PALS)

PALS, or Professionals of After Loss Services, is a unique organization founded in 2021 that focuses on providing personalized support to families navigating the complexities of loss. As the first and only community dedicated to after loss professionals, PALS aims to fill the gap in services by helping clients manage the administrative and logistical challenges that arise after the death of a loved one. The organization offers a comprehensive training program, known as the PALS Training Program™, which consists of six modules designed to equip individuals with the necessary skills and knowledge to become effective after loss professionals.

PALS is committed to enhancing industry standards and advancing ethical best practices within the field of after loss services. It also fosters connections among professionals and businesses that provide related products and services, ensuring a holistic approach to client care. Members of PALS benefit from exclusive events, continuing education opportunities, and access to a supportive community.

The organization will host its inaugural PALS Summit from October 23-25, 2024, in Atlanta, GA, further solidifying its role as a leader in this essential area of support for grieving families. For further details on the PALS Summit and to register, follow this link.

Website | LinkedIn | Instagram | Facebook | YouTube

Topics Discussed in this Episode

00:00 Introduction and Welcome
01:30 Guest Introduction: Mollie Lacher
01:58 Understanding After Loss Care
04:20 The Birth of PALS
05:31 Challenges and Goals of After Loss Professionals
08:06 The Role of After Loss Professionals
15:11 The PALS Summit 2024
28:03 Conclusion and Final Thoughts

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.

Renasant Bank supports the Georgia Alliance for Breast Cancer

Georgia Alliance for Breast Cancer (formerly It’s The Journey) is a registered 501c3 non-profit that strives to support Georgia’s breast cancer community by raising funds to support breast health and breast cancer programs throughout the state of Georgia.

GAABC’s mission is to engage with Georgia’s breast cancer community to increase access to care and reduce disparities in cancer outcomes.

Randi Passoff, a breast cancer survivor, founded GAABC in 2002. She created “the kinder and gentler breast cancer walk” based off the Avon 3-Day Breast Cancer Walk. Instead of a 3-day walk of 60 miles over 3 days and sleeping in a tent, the Georgia 2-Day Walk covers 30 miles over 2 days, and participants sleep in a hotel. Most importantly, what’s raised in Georgia stays in Georgia.

Renasant Bank is a major supporter of GAABC, both in corporately donated funds and employee donations and participation in the walk.

To learn more about GAABC and the 2-Day Walk, go to the GAABC 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.

Support for Caregivers, with Sue Ryan and Nancy Treaster, The Caregiver’s Journey

September 30, 2024 by John Ray

North Fulton Business Radio

Support for Caregivers, with Sue Ryan and Nancy Treaster, The Caregiver's Journey

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Support for Caregivers, with Sue Ryan and Nancy Treaster, The Caregiver’s Journey (North Fulton Business Radio, Episode 805)

In this episode of North Fulton Business Radio, host John Ray welcomes Nancy Treaster and Sue Ryan from The Caregiver’s Journey. They discuss the significant challenges faced by caregivers of loved ones with dementia, emphasizing the emotional and practical aspects of caregiving. Sue and Nancy provide valuable insights and resources through their podcast and other platforms to support caregivers. They share their personal experiences and emphasize the importance of businesses recognizing and supporting caregiver employees. The conversation also touches on the need for grace, dignity, and effective communication in caregiving, as well as the broader impact on families and workplaces.

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.

Nancy Treaster and Sue Ryan, The Caregiver’s Journey

Nancy Treaster has been caregiving for her husband for nine years. He has frontotemporal dementia (aphasia), the same type of dementia as Bruce Willis. Her father-in-law, whom she also takes care of, has had Alzheimer’s for five years. When she cracked the code on how to get her husband’s sleeping back on track early in his journey with dementia, Nancy Treaster felt like a “new normal” was finally within reach. The retired software industry veteran who spent her professional life managing strategy for a publicly traded, global company found herself in unfamiliar territory with her husband’s diagnosis, and her usual techniques for quickly changing course and overcoming obstacles weren’t working.

When she reconnected with her friend, veteran caregiver Sue Ryan, the two lamented the lack of candid and practical advice for the day-to-day of caregiving for people living with dementia, and then the two former colleagues did what they knew best—they created the solution. Through The Caregiver’s Journey™, Nancy brings her business expertise, caregiving experience, and acquired knowledge as a Certified Caregiving Advocate and Certified Caregiving Consultant. Nancy lives in Johns Creek, Georgia.

Sue Ryan and her husband were already several years into his journey with Alzheimer’s disease when the pandemic hit in 2020. Given her more than thirty years of experience taking care of loved ones, including her father and grandmother, who had dementia, she naively thought she was well-equipped for this new challenge. Then Covid-created lockdowns occurred and her carefully managed system of support collapsed, just as her husband’s Covid diagnosis arrived.

Already working as a coach and advocate since 2014, Sue dug deep into her wells of support and pulled through, learning and sharing as she went. It was her sharing that caught the attention of her peer in the technology world, Nancy Treaster.

Together, they committed to dedicating themselves and their significant acumen to the task of creating a candid and practical lifeline for caregivers. Thus, The Caregiver’s Journey was born. Sue is a change strategist, speaker, author and executive coach who empowers leaders and caregivers to maximize their potential. With more than 40 years of experience as a business professional while also navigating a variety of caregiving roles, she guides families to become confident, balanced, and supported on their caregiving journey.

She also guides businesses to navigate the global crisis of family caregiving in business so both the organization and their valued working caregivers thrive. Sue has authored/co-authored five bestsellers, created an award-winning online course for caregivers, and is a certified hospice volunteer and caregiver advocate. Sue is a professional speaker, including TEDx, DisruptHR, and Vistage International.

Sue lives in Naples, Fla., where she and her husband made their home until his passing in 2023.

Nancy Treaster LinkedIn | Sue Ryan LinkedIn

The Caregiver’s Journey

The Caregiver’s Journey is a comprehensive online platform dedicated to supporting and empowering caregivers through their challenging experiences. The website offers a wealth of resources tailored to meet the diverse needs of caregivers, including informative articles, practical tips, and expert advice on various aspects of caregiving.

Visitors can access a range of tools and guides designed to help manage the day-to-day responsibilities of caregiving, as well as find emotional support and self-care strategies. The platform also features a community forum where caregivers can connect with others facing similar situations, share experiences, and offer mutual support.

The Caregiver’s Journey podcast is available on Apple, Spotify, YouTube, and other major podcast apps.

Additionally, The Caregiver’s Journey provides educational resources, webinars, and workshops to enhance caregiving skills and knowledge, ensuring that caregivers feel equipped and confident in their roles.

Website | Instagram | Facebook

Topics Discussed in this Episode

00:00 Introduction and Welcome to North Fulton Business Radio
01:36 Introducing the Caregiver’s Journey
02:25 The Scope of Caregiving in the U.S.
04:43 Personal Caregiving Stories
05:55 Challenges and Emotional Impact
09:17 Family Dynamics in Caregiving
15:27 Business and Caregiving
18:18 Flexibility for Family Caregivers
18:47 Leadership Advice for Supporting Caregivers
19:51 Team Dynamics and Support
22:00 Corporate and Small Business Strategies to Support Caregivers
23:17 Insights and Practical Tips from The Caregiver’s Journey Podcast
25:13 Detailed Caregiving Challenges
27:05 Engaging and Educational Episodes
29:38 Testimonials and Impact
32:45 Conclusion and Additional Resources

Renasant Bank supports North Fulton Business Radio

Renasant Bank supports the Georgia Alliance for Breast Cancer

GAABC’s mission is to engage with Georgia’s breast cancer community to increase access to care and reduce disparities in cancer outcomes.

Renasant Bank is a major supporter of GAABC, both in corporately donated funds and employee donations and participation in the walk.

To learn more about GAABC and the 2-Day Walk, go to the GAABC Website.

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.

John Ray and The Generosity Mindset on the Organization Conversation Podcast with host Richard Grove

September 25, 2024 by John Ray

John Ray, author of The Generosity Mindset on the Organization Conversation Podcast with host Richard Grove

North Fulton Studio

John Ray and The Generosity Mindset on the Organization Conversation Podcast with host Richard Grove

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John Ray and The Generosity Mindset on the Organization Conversation Podcast with host Richard Grove (The Price and Value Journey, Episode 114)

John Ray, host of The Price and Value Journey podcast and author of The Generosity Mindset, was recently featured as a guest on the Organization Conversation podcast, hosted by Richard Grove. John and Richard discuss the concept of The Generosity Mindset™, which is central to John’s book. The discussion offers insights on how service providers can understand the value they deliver to clients, price that value effectively, and overcome common mindsets that hold them back. John also explains the importance of having detailed value conversations with clients and presenting them with tailored options to better meet their needs.

The Price and Value Journey is presented by John Ray and produced by Business RadioX® – North Fulton.

Topics Discussed in this Episode

00:00 Introduction to The Price and Value Journey
00:20 Guest Appearance on Organization Conversation
01:21 Introduction to John Ray and His Book, The Generosity Mindset
02:41 The Importance of Pricing in Business
07:17 Understanding Tangible and Intangible Value
12:11 Overcoming Entrepreneurial Mindsets
17:40 Conducting Value Conversations with Clients
23:25 Delivering Options: Good, Better, Best
24:17 The Magic of Offering Choices
26:10 Pricing Strategies and Common Pitfalls
31:33 Networking and the Generosity Mindset
33:26 Other Insights from the Book
38:41 Conclusion and Final Thoughts

About Organization Conversation

Organization Conversation is hosted by Richard Grove and broadcast and produced from the North Fulton studio of Business RadioX®. 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, Amazon, iHeart Radio, and others.

Richard Grove, Wall Control

**Richard Grove, COO, Wall Control, Small Business Consultant, and Host of Organization Conversation**

Richard Grove‘s background is in engineering, but what he enjoys most is brand building through relationships and creative marketing. Richard began his career with the Department of Defense as an engineer on the C-5 Galaxy Engineering Team, based out of Warner Robins. While Richard found this experience both rewarding and fulfilling, he always knew deep down that he wanted to return to the small family business that originally triggered his interest in engineering.

Richard came to work for the family business, Dekalb Tool & Die, in 2008 as a Mechanical Engineer. At the time, Wall Control was little more than a small ‘side hustle’ for Dekalb Tool & Die to try to produce some incremental income. There were no “Wall Control” employees, just a small warehouse with a single tool and die maker that would double as an “order fulfillment associate” on the occasion that the original WallControl.com website, which Richard’s grandmother built, pulled in an order.

In 2008, it became apparent that for the family business to survive, they were going to have to produce their own branded product at scale to ensure jobs remained in-house and for the business to continue to move forward. Richard then turned his attention from tool and die to Wall Control to attempt this necessary pivot, and his story with Wall Control began. Since that time, Richard has led Wall Control to significant growth while navigating two recessions.

Outside of Richard’s work at Wall Control, he enjoys helping other business owners, operators, and entrepreneurs along their own paths to success by offering personal business coaching and advice through his website, ConsultantSmallBusiness.com. Richard has developed an expansive and unique skillset, growing and scaling Wall Control through a multitude of challenges to become the successful brand and company it is today. Richard is happy to share his knowledge and experience with others who are looking to do the same within their own businesses.

Connect with Richard:

Instagram | Twitter | LinkedIn | Richard’s Website

About The Price and Value Journey

The show is hosted and produced by John Ray and the North Fulton studio of Business RadioX®. The show can also be found on all the major podcast apps. The complete show archive is here.

John Ray, Host of The Price and Value Journey

John Ray is the host of The Price and Value Journey.

John’s book, The Generosity Mindset: A Journey to Business Success by Raising Your Confidence, Value, and Prices

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

The book is available at all major physical and online book retailers worldwide. Follow this link for further details.

Connect with John Ray:

Website | LinkedIn | Twitter

Business RadioX®: LinkedIn | Twitter | Facebook | Instagram

Empowering Business Success, with Paris and James Williams, Next Level Financial

September 24, 2024 by John Ray

North Fulton Business Radio

Empowering Business Success, with Paris and James Williams, Next Level Financial

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Empowering Business Success, with Paris and James Williams, Next Level Financial (North Fulton Business Radio, Episode 804)

In this episode of North Fulton Business Radio, host John Ray welcomes Paris and James Williams, co-founders of Next Level Financial, a fractional CFO firm. The discussion highlights the Williams’ journey from corporate careers to entrepreneurship, their approach to helping businesses with financial strategy, and the unique dynamics of working as a married couple. Key takeaways include the importance of financial clarity, proactive decision-making, and the role of fractional CFOs in scaling businesses.

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.

Paris and James Williams, Next Level Financial

Next Level Financial is a strategic financial consulting firm dedicated to helping service firms enhance their impact through effective financial planning and analysis. The company focuses on providing tailored financial solutions that empower businesses to achieve sustainable growth. By leveraging their expertise, Next Level Financial aims to simplify complex financial processes, allowing clients to concentrate on their core operations while ensuring their financial health is robust and well-managed.

The leadership team at Next Level Financial consists of Paris Williams and James Williams Jr., both of whom bring a wealth of experience and knowledge to the firm. Paris serves as the co-founder and CEO, leading all operational aspects of the company with an emphasis on growth, goal-setting, and client support. She holds a bachelor’s degree from San Francisco State University and a Master’s degree from UC Berkeley. James, who is also a co-founder and serves as the lead CFO, holds the prestigious Chartered Financial Analyst (CFA) designation. His passion lies in assisting mission-driven organizations in growing and operating more efficiently. James has extensive experience in accounting, investments, real estate development, and asset management.

Website | LinkedIn | Facebook | Paris LinkedIn | James LinkedIn

Topics Discussed in this Episode

00:00 Introduction and Welcome to North Fulton Business Radio
01:36 Meet Paris and James Williams
01:50 Next Level Financial: The Journey Begins
02:18 Balancing Family and Business
04:14 The Role of a Fractional CFO
06:57 Building Trust and Strategy
08:30 Recognizing the Need for Financial Guidance
22:31 Client Success Stories
29:39 How to Connect with Next Level Financial
30:27 Final Thoughts

Renasant Bank supports North Fulton Business Radio

Renasant Bank supports the Georgia Alliance for Breast Cancer

GAABC’s mission is to engage with Georgia’s breast cancer community to increase access to care and reduce disparities in cancer outcomes.

Renasant Bank is a major supporter of GAABC, both in corporately donated funds and employee donations and participation in the walk.

To learn more about GAABC and the 2-Day Walk, go to the GAABC Website.

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.

Mortgage Solutions for Homebuyers, with Geoff Smith, Assurance Financial

September 19, 2024 by John Ray

North Fulton Business Radio

Mortgage Solutions for Homebuyers, with Geoff Smith, Assurance Financial

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Mortgage Solutions for Homebuyers, with Geoff Smith, Assurance Financial (North Fulton Business Radio, Episode 803)

In this episode of North Fulton Business Radio, host John Ray interviews Geoff Smith, Assurance Financial. Geoff shares his journey from journalism to mortgage banking and highlights Assurance Financial’s services, including in-house mortgage lending, customer service excellence, and specialized loan products like bank statement loans and bridge loans. He emphasizes the importance of understanding federal guidelines and the steps Assurance Financial takes to ensure seamless client experiences. The episode also discusses current market dynamics, interest rates, and the importance of buying in a vibrant housing market like Georgia. Additionally, Geoff shares success stories and the impact of personalized service in handling complex loan situations.

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.

Geoff Smith, Roswell, GA Branch Manager and Loan Officer, Assurance Financial

Geoff Smith has been in the real estate industry since 2001, when he became a general contractor. In 2011, he went all in with mortgages, becoming a full-time loan officer with Assurance Financial and opening his own branch with them in 2021 on Canton Street in downtown Roswell.

Geoff volunteers in the community. He is currently sitting on the board of STAR House, an after-school tutoring and mentoring program for at-risk elementary school students in Roswell; he is on the Advisory Board for Wellstar North Fulton Regional Hospital; he is on the board for the Alpharetta Business Association; and he coaches 6th grade football at Blessed Trinity High School.

Geoff is married to Brenda and they have two boys, Samuel, who is a freshman at Auburn, and Charlie, who is a sophomore at Blessed Trinity.

LinkedIn | Facebook | X (Twitter)

Assurance Financial

Assurance Financial is a mortgage lender and refinance company that has been serving homeowners since 2001. The company is known for its customer-centric approach, offering a wide range of loan options tailored to meet the individual needs of homebuyers. They provide various loan types, including VA, FHA, construction, non-qualified, modular home, jumbo, first-time home buyer, conventional, and USDA RD loans.

Assurance Financial emphasizes a seamless and efficient loan application process, utilizing the latest technology to simplify steps such as prequalification, full application, processing, and funding. They pride themselves on outstanding customer satisfaction, with an average rating of 4.98 out of 5 stars based on numerous reviews.

The company is recognized as a Fannie Mae/Freddie Mac seller/servicer-approved and Ginnie Mae issuer-approved lender. Assurance Financial operates across 28 states in the U.S., providing personalized support through their team of experienced loan officers. Their services are designed to assist clients at various stages of life, whether buying a first home, a vacation property, or an investment property.

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

Topics Discussed in this Episode

00:00 Introduction and Welcome
01:33 Guest Introduction: Geoff Smith. Assurance Financial
02:10 Geoff’s Career Journey and Passion for Mortgages
03:21 The Mortgage Process and Customer Experience
06:48 Challenges and Problem-Solving in Mortgage Lending
14:49 Understanding Interest Rates and Market Dynamics
18:48 Expanding Business Across States
19:02 Housing Market Dynamics in Georgia
22:03 The Impact of Waiting to Buy a Home
22:48 Innovative Loan Products for Homebuyers
24:47 Assurance Financial’s Unique Bridge Loan
27:05 Success Stories and Client Experiences
33:35 Community Support and Final Thoughts

Renasant Bank supports North Fulton Business Radio

Renasant Bank supports the Georgia Alliance for Breast Cancer

GAABC’s mission is to engage with Georgia’s breast cancer community to increase access to care and reduce disparities in cancer outcomes.

Renasant Bank is a major supporter of GAABC, both in corporately donated funds and employee donations and participation in the walk.

To learn more about GAABC and the 2-Day Walk, go to the GAABC Website.

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.

Middle Income Housing Needs in Metro Atlanta, with Kristin Allin, Atlanta Regional Commission

September 18, 2024 by John Ray

North Fulton Studio

Middle Income Housing Needs in Metro Atlanta, with Kristin Allin, Atlanta Regional Commission

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Middle Income Housing Needs in Metro Atlanta, with Kristin Allin, Atlanta Regional Commission (North Fulton Voices, Episode 4)

This episode of North Fulton Voices, hosted by Nancy Diamond and Jack Murphy from the North Fulton Improvement Network, focuses not just on the critical topic of workforce housing in the North Fulton region but examines this issue through the wider lens of the Metro Atlanta region. Special guest Kristin Allin from the Atlanta Regional Commission (ARC) elaborates on the various initiatives, statistics, and challenges associated with housing and community planning in Metro Atlanta. They discuss the region’s immense population growth, the significant rise in housing prices, and the shortage of middle-income housing. The episode highlights how local governments, aided by ARC’s data and planning assistance, can address these challenges. The discussion also explores topics such as the impact of housing variety, the importance of mixed-income housing, and the role of policy and zoning in shaping the housing landscape. Community engagement and education are emphasized as crucial components in finding comprehensive solutions. Listeners are encouraged to get involved in local planning discussions and leverage resources available through ARC and the North Fulton Improvement Network.

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®.

Kristin Allin, Atlanta Regional Commission

Kristin Allin is a Senior Planner and Housing Specialist at the Atlanta Regional Commission.

Born in the Atlanta area, Kristin has resided in Decatur for over 19 years as a business owner and community leader. In her role at ARC, Kristin has helped to lead the Local Leadership Housing Action Committee, is assisting in re-instating the Regional Housing Task Force, serves on the advisory panel for the Atlanta Regional Housing Forum, and works within the ARC’s LCI and CDAP program to further affordable housing planning. She spearheaded the ARC’s application for the HUD PRO Housing Grant in hopes of funding direct housing support within the ARC’s programming.

Prior to joining the Atlanta Regional Commission, she was a Planner for the City of Decatur with a focus on housing policy. In this role, she was the staff liaison to the Affordable Housing Task Force and implemented several of its recommendations to reduce barriers to affordable housing in Decatur. Her most challenging policy implementation was the missing middle housing policy revisions to the zoning code. Kristin was also the lead in incorporating the Decatur Land Trust as a non-profit organization and serving as the staff liaison to the Decatur Land Trust Board. She created policies and procedures for Decatur’s Tax Allocation District and Housing Trust Fund.

Kristin’s career in affordable housing began in 2018 when she returned to school and received a Master of Urban Studies from Georgia State University. Her educational background includes earning an undergraduate degree in Industrial Engineering from Georgia Tech in 1997 and a Master of Business Administration from Saint Mary’s College of California. From 2007 to 2023, Kristin co-owned and operated several small restaurants in Decatur and Atlanta. The experience of running small businesses has shaped her world view in understanding the challenges of standing up a small-scale business, supporting employees in this industry, and the link between housing, wages, and transportation as vital to the vision of a region that supports the success of all residents.

Atlanta Regional Commission

The Atlanta Regional Commission (ARC) is the official planning agency for the 11-county Atlanta Region, including Cherokee, Clayton, Cobb, DeKalb, Douglas, Fayette, Forsyth, Fulton, Gwinnett, Henry, and Rockdale counties, as well as the City of Atlanta and 74 other cities. The Atlanta Regional Commission’s mission is to foster thriving communities for all within the Atlanta region through collaborative, data-informed planning and investments.

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

Topics Discussed in this Episode

00:00 Introduction to North Fulton Voices
00:24 Meet the Hosts and Guests
01:03 Overview of the Atlanta Regional Commission
02:16 Metro Atlanta Growth Statistics
04:17 Housing Crisis and ARC’s Role
06:48 Challenges in Housing Variety
09:04 Impact of Housing on Communities
14:55 Local Leadership Housing Action Committee
18:45 Community Engagement and Planning
20:27 Addressing Workforce Housing
24:27 Programs and Initiatives by ARC
34:27 Call to Action and Conclusion

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. 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

Mastering Business Communications, with Pamela DeRitis, Connect and Captivate

September 18, 2024 by John Ray

North Fulton Business Radio

Mastering Business Communications, with Pamela DeRitis, Connect and Captivate

00:00 /

Mastering Business Communications, with Pamela DeRitis, Connect and Captivate (North Fulton Business Radio, Episode 802)

In this episode of North Fulton Business Radio, John Ray interviews Pamela DeRitis with Connect and Captivate. Pamela discusses her background in acting and how it informs her approach to corporate communications, emphasizing authentic connection and captivating an audience. She details techniques like improv and structured storytelling to help clients enhance their speaking and video presentations. Pamela also shares client success stories, including overcoming personal challenges and preparing for high-stakes presentations. The conversation touches on the importance of emotional engagement, the impact of AI on communication training, and tips for effectively connecting with an audience.

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.

Pamela DeRitis, Connect and Captivate

Pamela draws on over fifteen years of experience in acting and improv to help you create authentic and influential communications with your peers, employees, or audience.

Through coaching that builds confidence and character, Pamela will help you become a trusted partner to your clients and customers, whether you are giving a keynote speech, creating video content to help sales conversions, or networking in person.

Pamela’s coaching programs are formulated from her training in the Meisner technique, Practical Aesthetics, improv, and other neuroscience-based acting techniques, which have all shaped her life as an artist and entrepreneur.

Pamela brings her unstoppable creative momentum to the table to help your businesses gain an EQ advantage and become a captivating communicator, on camera, or off.

Website | LinkedIn | X (Twitter)

Topics Discussed in this Episode

00:00 Introduction to North Fulton Business Radio
01:21 Meet Pamela DeRitis with Connect and Captivate
01:32 Pamela’s Journey and Connect and Captivate
02:10 Acting and Improv in Business Communication
04:41 Emotional Breakthroughs and Business Applications
08:14 Challenges in Business Communication
17:59 Storytelling Principles in Business
21:58 Client Success Stories
24:00 The Role of AI in Business Communication
26:56 How to Know You Need a Communication Coach
32:53 Conclusion and Final Thoughts

Renasant Bank supports North Fulton Business Radio

Renasant Bank supports the Georgia Alliance for Breast Cancer

GAABC’s mission is to engage with Georgia’s breast cancer community to increase access to care and reduce disparities in cancer outcomes.

Renasant Bank is a major supporter of GAABC, both in corporately donated funds and employee donations and participation in the walk.

To learn more about GAABC and the 2-Day Walk, go to the GAABC Website.

About North Fulton Business Radio and host John Ray

With over 790 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.

Exploring Concierge Medicine, with Kathleen Elmiger, PartnerMD

September 16, 2024 by John Ray

North Fulton Business Radio

Exploring Concierge Medicine, with Kathleen Elmiger, PartnerMD

00:00 /

Exploring Concierge Medicine, with Kathleen Elmiger, PartnerMD (North Fulton Business Radio, Episode 801)

In this episode of North Fulton Business Radio, host John Ray interviews Kathleen Elmiger, Membership and Business Development Officer at PartnerMD. Kathleen explains the benefits and workings of PartnerMD, a concierge medical practice based in Sandy Springs. The conversation covers a range of topics, including the difference between traditional primary care and concierge medicine, the value of personalized health care, membership benefits, and the role of insurance. They also discuss the unique executive health services offered by PartnerMD, aimed at improving workplace wellness. The show emphasizes the importance of personalized medical care and its positive impact on patients’ lives.

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.

Kathleen Elmiger, PartnerMD

Kathleen Elmiger’s role at PartnerMD is with Membership and Business Development.

She helps those who are looking for a better and more personalized primary care experience by matching their needs with a PartnerMD physician. Additionally, she helps companies with their executive health programs by personalizing executive physicals and health education for their leadership team members.

Her career path has always been centered around helping others in both the healthcare and hospitality industries, with an understanding that the two go hand in hand. Kathleen has a diverse background in direct patient care and advocacy, medical sales and prevention, and hospitality and program management. She is committed to building trust, strong relationships, and improving lives through better health in all populations.

PartnerMD

PartnerMD is a concierge medical practice that provides personalized primary care services across several states, including Maryland, Virginia, South Carolina, and Georgia. Established in 2003 and headquartered in Richmond, Virginia, PartnerMD operates with a membership model that allows patients to receive enhanced medical care tailored to their individual needs.

The practice emphasizes preventative care, offering customizable executive health programs designed for companies to support their employees’ well-being. By maintaining a lower patient-to-doctor ratio, PartnerMD enables its physicians to cultivate deeper relationships with their patients, ensuring more attentive and thorough care.

Membership at PartnerMD includes benefits such as extended appointment times, direct access to physicians, and a variety of wellness services.

In addition to primary care, PartnerMD provides access to wellness courses and health coaching, aiming to empower patients in managing their health proactively. The organization is committed to redefining the healthcare experience, focusing on both the physical and emotional aspects of patient care.

PartnerMD’s North Fulton location is at 755 Mt. Vernon Highway, Suite 110, Sandy Springs, GA 30328.

Website | LinkedIn | Facebook | X (Twitter)

Topics Discussed in this Episode

00:00 Introduction and Welcome to North Fulton Business Radio
01:30 Introducing Kathleen Elmiger and PartnerMD
04:23 Understanding Concierge Medicine and Executive Health
06:35 Challenges in Traditional Primary Care
08:57 Benefits of PartnerMD’s Concierge Medicine
15:26 Affordability and Insurance Aspects
18:43 Patient Experience and Continuity of Care
27:05 Contact Information and Closing Remarks
28:20 Supporting the Georgia Alliance for Breast Cancer
30:25 Final Thoughts and Thank You

Renasant Bank supports North Fulton Business Radio

Renasant Bank supports the Georgia Alliance for Breast Cancer

GAABC’s mission is to engage with Georgia’s breast cancer community to increase access to care and reduce disparities in cancer outcomes.

Renasant Bank is a major supporter of GAABC, both in corporately donated funds and employee donations and participation in the walk.

To learn more about GAABC and the 2-Day Walk, go to the GAABC Website.

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.

Embracing Disruptive Innovation in Professional Services with Natalie Born, Author, Set It on Fire: The Art of Innovation (The Price and Value Journey, Episode 115)

Natalie Born, Arch + Tower, and Author, Set It on Fire: The Art of Innovation

Topics Discussed in this Interview

About The Price and Value Journey

John Ray, Host of The Price and Value Journey

John’s book, The Generosity Mindset: A Journey to Business Success by Raising Your Confidence, Value, and Prices

Connect with John Ray:

PALS Summit 2024, with Mollie Lacher, Professionals of After Loss Services (North Fulton Business Radio, Episode 806)

Professionals of After Loss Services (PALS)

Topics Discussed in this Episode

Renasant Bank supports North Fulton Business Radio

Renasant Bank supports the Georgia Alliance for Breast Cancer

About North Fulton Business Radio and host John Ray

Support for Caregivers, with Sue Ryan and Nancy Treaster, The Caregiver’s Journey (North Fulton Business Radio, Episode 805)

Nancy Treaster and Sue Ryan, The Caregiver’s Journey

The Caregiver’s Journey

Topics Discussed in this Episode

Renasant Bank supports North Fulton Business Radio

Renasant Bank supports the Georgia Alliance for Breast Cancer

About North Fulton Business Radio and host John Ray

John Ray and The Generosity Mindset on the Organization Conversation Podcast with host Richard Grove (The Price and Value Journey, Episode 114)

Topics Discussed in this Episode

About Organization Conversation

Richard Grove, Wall Control

About The Price and Value Journey

John Ray, Host of The Price and Value Journey

John’s book, The Generosity Mindset: A Journey to Business Success by Raising Your Confidence, Value, and Prices

Connect with John Ray:

Empowering Business Success, with Paris and James Williams, Next Level Financial (North Fulton Business Radio, Episode 804)

Paris and James Williams, Next Level Financial

Topics Discussed in this Episode

Renasant Bank supports North Fulton Business Radio

Renasant Bank supports the Georgia Alliance for Breast Cancer

About North Fulton Business Radio and host John Ray

Mortgage Solutions for Homebuyers, with Geoff Smith, Assurance Financial (North Fulton Business Radio, Episode 803)

Geoff Smith, Roswell, GA Branch Manager and Loan Officer, Assurance Financial

Assurance Financial

Topics Discussed in this Episode

Renasant Bank supports North Fulton Business Radio

Renasant Bank supports the Georgia Alliance for Breast Cancer

About North Fulton Business Radio and host John Ray

Middle Income Housing Needs in Metro Atlanta, with Kristin Allin, Atlanta Regional Commission (North Fulton Voices, Episode 4)

Kristin Allin, Atlanta Regional Commission

Atlanta Regional Commission

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

Mastering Business Communications, with Pamela DeRitis, Connect and Captivate (North Fulton Business Radio, Episode 802)

Pamela DeRitis, Connect and Captivate

Topics Discussed in this Episode

Renasant Bank supports North Fulton Business Radio

Renasant Bank supports the Georgia Alliance for Breast Cancer

About North Fulton Business Radio and host John Ray

Exploring Concierge Medicine, with Kathleen Elmiger, PartnerMD (North Fulton Business Radio, Episode 801)

Kathleen Elmiger, PartnerMD

PartnerMD

Topics Discussed in this Episode

Renasant Bank supports North Fulton Business Radio

Renasant Bank supports the Georgia Alliance for Breast Cancer

About North Fulton Business Radio and host John Ray

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