Artisan Design Studio, Walk Your Plans Atlanta Win GNFCC Honors

October 30, 2025 by John Ray

North Fulton Studio

Artisan Design Studio, Walk Your Plans Atlanta Win GNFCC Honors

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Artisan Design Studio, Walk Your Plans Atlanta Win GNFCC Honors (GNFCC 400 Insider, Episode 109)

This edition of the GNFCC 400 Insider podcast features two entrepreneurs who are changing what “seeing the plan” means for homeowners and builders in our region. Ryan Williams, owner of Artisan Design Studio, shares how a small design firm can grow without losing its soul. She discusses pricing for outcomes, opening a retail studio to create community touchpoints, and why disciplined books and a good CPA are growth tools, not afterthoughts.

Mary Atchley, co-owner of Walk Your Plans Atlanta and co-founder of Design & Build XR, explains how clients make better decisions when they can literally walk their floor plans at full scale. Then she layers in extended reality to preview kitchens, baths, and additions on-site or in their studio, reducing rework and surprises.

Together, Mary and Ryan trade practical lessons: how to decide when to expand, where to invest first, what metrics to watch, and how to balance momentum with margin. They also highlight their shared work with Sunshine on a Ranney Day, creating accessible spaces for families who need them most. If you’re building, renovating, or growing a design-related business, this conversation is a blueprint for smarter decisions and happier clients.

The GNFCC 400 Insider is presented by the Greater North Fulton Chamber of Commerce and produced by John Ray and the North Fulton affiliate of Business RadioX®.

Key Takeaways from This Episode

XR goes beyond 2D: Walk Your Plans Atlanta launched Design & Build XR to layer AR/VR and on-site visualization so clients understand unbuilt spaces and reduce surprises.
Category creation is hard work: Educating a successful industry to try a new modality takes daily consistency and clear value stories.
Boutique by design: Artisan Design Studio grew from a home office to a retail studio after past lessons on scaling, prioritizing process and the craft of design.
Community at the center: Both Artisan Design Studio and Walk Your Plans Atlanta volunteer with Sunshine on a Ranney Day, creating accessible bedrooms, baths, and therapy spaces for kids and families.
Make it easy to connect: Artisan’s Roswell storefront hosts events, while Walk Your Plans Atlanta invites prospects to see work online and on social.
Mindset for year one: Guard time, choose communities wisely, and keep showing up. Consistency compounds.

Topics Discussed in this Episode

00:00 Introduction to the GNFCC 400 Insider podcast
00:26 Celebrating Small Business Award Winners
01:06 Meet two of the Award Winners: Artisan Design Studio and Walk Your Plans Atlanta
02:15 Journey of Entrepreneurship: Challenges and Inspirations
05:05 Innovations and Expansions in Business
12:28 Community Involvement and Giving Back
20:00 Advice for Aspiring Entrepreneurs
27:06 Connecting with the Businesses
28:59 Conclusion and Farewell

Ryan Morgan Williams, Artisan Design Studio

**Ryan Williams, Artisan Design Studios**

Principal designer Ryan Williams owns Artisan Design Studio. Williams has been practicing interior design for twenty years and has been a business owner for more than 15 of those.

With utmost attention given to learning about her clients and their families, Williams prioritizes making sure she is not only creating breathtaking spaces for them but also improving their mental, physical, and emotional well-being. As a member of a custom home-building family in Atlanta, Williams advocates for her clients through building and remodeling, as well as full furnishings projects. She prides herself on being the expert in the room but also a friend at the table.

Williams graduated with a Bachelor of Science degree in Furnishings & Interiors from the University of Georgia. She is an Atlanta native and she currently lives with her husband and two children in Roswell.

Website | Instagram | LinkedIn

Mary Atchley, Walk Your Plans Atlanta

Mary Atchley is the owner and driving force behind Walk Your Plans Atlanta, a cutting-edge business that enables clients to experience life-sized floor plans before construction begins. Bringing over 20 years of expertise in marketing, brand strategy, and entrepreneurship, Atchley created a platform that bridges the gap between abstract blueprints and real-life spatial understanding so homeowners, architects, and commercial developers can make informed, confident decisions. Her visionary leadership and relentless focus on client service have transformed Walk Your Plans Atlanta into a destination for immersive, collaborative design walkthroughs, helping Atlanta’s building community identify issues early, optimize layouts, and minimize costly post-construction changes.

Atchley’s deep commitment to the local community matches her passion for innovation. She has ensured that Walk Your Plans Atlanta provides complimentary access to families sponsored by Sunshine on a Ranney Day, supporting ADA-compliant renovations for children with special needs. Recognized for her ability to foster lasting relationships and deliver tailored technology solutions, Mary Atchley is also active in regional leadership and professional organizations, including Leadership North Fulton and Women in Sport & Events (WISE). Her work continues to propel industry standards forward, making the design and construction process more transparent, collaborative, and client-focused throughout the greater Atlanta area.

Website | Instagram | LinkedIn

About GNFCC and The GNFCC 400 Insider podcast

Kali Boatright, President and CEO of the Greater North Fulton Chamber of Commerce (GNFCC) — **Kali Boatright, President and CEO of the Greater North Fulton Chamber of Commerce**

The GNFCC 400 Insider is sponsored by the Greater North Fulton Chamber of Commerce (GNFCC), and the host of the show is Kali Boatright, President and CEO of GNFCC.

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.

How Hemophilia of Georgia Transforms Lives Through Innovation, Care, and Community, with Vic McCarty

May 22, 2025 by John Ray

Good2Give Podcast

How Hemophilia of Georgia Transforms Lives Through Innovation, Care, and Community, with Vic McCarty

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How Hemophilia of Georgia Transforms Lives Through Innovation, Care, and Community, with Vic McCarty (Good2Give Podcast, Episode 16)

In this episode of the Good2Give podcast, hosts Maria Walden and DePriest Waddy sit down with Vic McCarty, Chief Community Engagement Officer at Hemophilia of Georgia (HoG), to explore how this remarkable nonprofit is redefining comprehensive care for individuals with inherited bleeding disorders. From groundbreaking research and global outreach to scholarships and summer camps for youth, Vic shares the powerful ways HoG supports more than 2,200 patients across Georgia.

Hear how HoG’s partnership with the Community Foundation for Northeast Georgia amplifies their impact and why Georgia is one of the best places in the country to live with hemophilia. Vic’s passion, humor, and wealth of insight make the episode an inspiring conversation about mission-driven innovation, strategic fundraising, and holistic care, from birth to adulthood.

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

Key Takeaways from this Episode

Wraparound Care from Birth to Adulthood: Hemophilia of Georgia provides comprehensive support—including medical, social, and emotional services—for patients throughout their entire lives.
More Than Medical: Through youth leadership camps, educational scholarships, and a focus on mental health, HoG addresses the full spectrum of living with a bleeding disorder.
Strategic Partnerships Matter: Vic highlights why HoG chose to partner with the Community Foundation for Northeast Georgia and how this collaboration is expanding their donor reach and mission capacity.
Global and Local Impact: HoG’s “twinning” initiative helps develop care infrastructure in underserved countries, while maintaining Georgia as a national model of care.
Education is Power: Most people don’t understand bleeding disorders or the difference between HoG and more visible organizations like the Red Cross. Raising awareness is essential—and personal stories help.

Topics Discussed in this Episode

00:00 Introduction to the Good2Give Podcast
00:19 Meet the Hosts and Vic McCarty
00:46 Vic McCarthy’s Role and Impact
01:41 Partnership with the Community Foundation
04:12 Hemophilia of Georgia’s Mission and Programs
06:01 Research, Scholarships, and Global Aid
13:58 Understanding Hemophilia and Von Willebrand Disease
16:04 Summer Camp and Volunteer Opportunities
20:14 Navigating Life with Hemophilia
21:08 Introduction to Hemophilia Care
21:53 Comprehensive Support Services
22:34 Insurance and Financial Assistance
24:37 Personal Stories and Experiences
27:28 Detection and Diagnosis
31:05 Lifestyle and Holistic Approaches
33:39 Mental Health and Emotional Support
35:54 Scholarships and Career Support
37:53 Final Thoughts and Contact Information

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 the Georgia 4-H Foundation.

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

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

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

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

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

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

Empowering Young Girls in Golf, with Emmy Martin, Played With Heart

April 17, 2025 by John Ray

North Fulton Business Radio

Empowering Young Girls in Golf, with Emmy Martin, Played With Heart

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Empowering Young Girls in Golf, with Emmy Martin, Played With Heart (North Fulton Business Radio, Episode 862)

In this episode of North Fulton Business Radio, host John Ray speaks with Emmy Martin, Founder and President of Played With Heart. Despite facing barriers growing up, Emmy’s passion for golf led her to start this non-profit organization dedicated to introducing girls aged four to ten to golf in a fun and girl-friendly environment. Emmy discusses the unique aspects of her program, including the emphasis on community, team camaraderie, and mentorship from female college and professional golfers. She also highlights the benefits of golf for young girls, both on and off the course. Listeners will gain insights into how the program operates, its growth, and the positive impact it’s having on young participants.

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

Emmy Martin, Founder and President, Played with Heart

Emmy Martin, Played with Heart — **Emmy Martin, Founder and President, Played with Heart**

Emmy Martin is a former collegiate and professional golfer who has dedicated her career to empowering young female athletes through golf. Growing up in Florida, Emmy initially pursued gymnastics but transitioned to golf at the age of 12. She went on to play at Texas Christian University (TCU), where she distinguished herself as a top competitor and set school records. After college, Emmy competed professionally on the Epson Tour, gaining valuable experience and insight into the sport at a high level.

Driven by a passion to give back and inspire the next generation, Emmy founded Played with Heart Inc., a nonprofit organization focused on making golf accessible and exciting for girls. Starting with sending care packages of golf apparel to young players, she has expanded her mission to include mentorship and leadership development.

Emmy currently serves as the Women’s Golf Ambassador at The Golf Club of Georgia and Horseshoe Bend Country Club, where she leads programs designed to foster confidence, community, and lifelong skills through golf. Her vision is to change the narrative around women’s golf and ensure every girl has the opportunity to experience the joy and empowerment the game can bring.

Played with Heart

Played with Heart Inc. is a 501(c)(3) nonprofit organization focused on inspiring and empowering the next generation of female golfers. Its mission is to provide young girls with engaging and accessible opportunities to learn and excel in golf while also highlighting the sport’s broader values of community, mentorship, empowerment, and camaraderie.

The organization’s flagship initiative, the Played with Heart Golf Girls League, introduces girls to golf in a fun, girl-friendly environment and nurtures a supportive community where participants can learn and grow together. The league is led by female professional golfers and college players who serve as mentors and role models, emphasizing leadership and personal development.

Played with Heart is based at The Golf Club of Georgia, a premier private club in Atlanta, which supports the organization’s mission and provides top-tier facilities for its programs.

Website | Instagram | Facebook

Topics Discussed in this Episode

00:00 Introduction and Welcome to North Fulton Business Radio
00:33 Meet Emmy Martin, Founder of Played with Heart
01:58 The Journey to Golf: Emmy’s Story
03:28 The Mission of Played with Heart
06:17 Program Details and Structure
10:18 Expanding the Program
11:00 The Benefits of Golf for Girls
12:35 How to Get Involved
15:46 Conclusion and Final Thoughts
16:12 Host’s Closing Remarks

About North Fulton Business Radio and host John Ray

With over 850 shows and having featured over 1,300 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 invites a diverse range of business, non-profit, and community leaders to share their significant contributions to their market, community, and profession. There’s no discrimination based on company size, and there’s never any “pay to play.” North Fulton Business Radio supports and celebrates businesses by sharing positive stories that traditional media ignore. Some media lean left. Some media lean right. We lean business.

John Ray, host of North Fulton Business Radio, and Owner, Ray Business Advisors — **John Ray, host of *North Fulton Business Radio*, and Owner, Ray Business Advisors**

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

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.

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.

Dream Big and Serve Others, with Kevin Foster, Actor, Producer, and Founder of Foster Dreams

March 26, 2025 by John Ray

Hello, Self . . .

Dream Big and Serve Others, with Kevin Foster, Actor, Producer, and Founder of Foster Dreams

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Dream Big and Serve Others, with Kevin Foster, Actor, Producer, and Founder of Foster Dreams (Hello Self…, Episode 65)

In this episode of Hello Self…, host Patricia Leonard introduced Kevin Foster, an extraordinary individual with a story that exemplifies turning dreams into reality.

Kevin shared his incredible journey from surviving electrocution to becoming a successful actor, breaking Guinness World Records, and cycling the Great Wall of China. He discussed his formula for success, emphasizing desire, determination, and discipline, and the importance of serving others.

Kevin also talked about his charitable work through his nonprofit Foster Dreams, inspiring young and old alike to pursue their dreams with a servant’s heart.

A video version of this conversation is available on Patricia’s YouTube Channel here.

Kevin Foster, Actor, Producer, and Founder of Foster Dreams

Kevin Foster, Actor, Producer, and Founder of Foster Dreams

Since his electrocution and return from death in 1968, Kevin has devoted his life to turning his dreams into reality. At age 16, he became a professional actor, and worked steadily for the next decade in theatre, both On and Off Broadway in New York, as well as in film. Training in his chosen profession consisted of: The American Academy of Dramatic Arts; The Actor’s Studio; The HB Studio; and with Stella Adler, all in New York City.

In 1989, Kevin burst onto the national scene when he broke the near-impossible Guinness World Record of traveling the entire length of the New York Subway system in 26 hours, 21minutes, 08 seconds. A year later, he followed up that accomplishment with becoming the first and only person to ride a bicycle, from one end to the other, atop the Great Wall of China, covering some 2000 miles, and earning the 1990 Cyclist of the Year award over his friend, 3-time Tour de France champion, Greg LeMond.

Needless to say, Kevin took a serious detour from his acting career. The 90s became one rollercoaster ride after another for Kevin when he followed up the “last, greatest cycling adventure on the face of the earth” With the AMERICAN SUMMITS tour of placing a full scale mountain bike atop the highest natural point in each of the 50 united States, and the tip-to-tip, 1158-mile, TOUR de CUBA, the longest bicycle trek in that nation’s history.

Upon retiring from a career in adventure cycling in 1998, Kevin devoted much of his time to charity work before returning to his acting roots in 2004, adding Producing and Writing credits to his list with his debut feature film, Yesterday’s Dreams. He followed that project by producing the feature length documentary, Hollywood on Fire, as well as producing the music CD, Saber Bytes, which held the #1 spot on college radio throughout North America during the Summer of 2009.

Website | Foster Dreams

About Hello, Self…

Hello, Self… is a biweekly podcast focused on inspiring stories of turning dreams into reality. Join coach and author Patricia Leonard and her guests as they share life-changing Hello, Self… moments.

Hello, Self… is brought to you by Patricia Leonard & Associates and is based on the new book by Patricia Leonard, Hello, Self.., available here.

The show is produced by Arlia Hoffman in association with Business RadioX®. You can find this show on all the major podcast apps. The complete show archive is here.

Patricia Leonard, Host of Hello, Self…

Patricia Leonard is President of RUNWAY TO SUCCESS, a division of Patricia Leonard & Associates located in Nashville, TN. She is a MESSAGE ARTIST speaker, career & business coach, author and magazine columnist. Patricia consults with clients on leadership, empowerment, career management, entrepreneurship and the power of language. Her work is focused on helping clients find their runway to success!

She has a professional background in management, human resources, corporate training, business consulting and talent development. Patricia has worked with companies in the service, music, banking, manufacturing, publishing, warehousing, healthcare, academic, retail and financial industries, and has taught management classes as an adjunct professor.

Patricia has a degree in Human Resource Management, is certified as a Career Coach and Consulting Hypnotist and is MBTI qualified.

Her volunteer energies are focused on Women in Film and Television-Nashville, where she is a Board Vice President; Dress for Success as the Advisory Board President; and International Coaching Federation-Nashville where she held Board roles for several years.

Patricia is the author of Wearing High Heels in a Flip Flop World, BECOMING WOMAN…a journal of personal discovery, THE NOW, HOW & WOW of Success, Happenings, a full year calendar of inspirational messages and a spoken word album titled, I AM…

She enjoys songwriting, creating poetry and has written a one-woman show and artistic speech she performs titled Hello, Self…, about a woman in midlife reinventing herself, which led to her new book by the same name, available here.

On the personal side, Patricia, describes herself as a woman, lover of life, mother, grandmother, career professional and message artist; AND in that order! Her goal is to continue inspiring others, of any age, to START NOW creating and expanding their Runway to Success.

She believes that life is a gift, the way we wrap it is our choice.

Connect with Patricia:

Website| LinkedIn | Facebook | Twitter | Instagram

Jeffery’s Mom

November 18, 2024 by Amanda Pearch

Creative News

Jeffery's Mom

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Creative News

Jeffery’s story, a client at Creative Enterprises.

Hear from Jefferys caregiver and how this 14C certificate impacts their family, firsthand. This short podcast explains the importance of supported work environments for working Adults with disabilities.

Georgia House Bill 1125 puts our supported work programs in jeopardy. Please take a moment to understand why the 14C certificate is beneficial for working Adults with Disabilities & organizations like Creative Enterprises.

The 14C of the Fair Labor Standards Act or sub-minimum wage certificate was created by the
Deportment of Labor in 1938 and permits paying people with disabilities wages below
minimum wage. The Department of Labor issues the certificates and the oversee
compliance to guard against exploitation. Over the years other laws have been enacted
like the Americans with Disabilities Act in 1990, to prevent discrimination and giving
people with disabilities the same right s as everyone else including the right to work and
make regular wages.

Each person who comes to Creative Enterprises is asked what their goals
are while they are here. If work is one of their goals, CE helps them go
through evaluation and training use the 14 C certificate. The Clients must go through
some education with the Georgia Vocational Rehabilitation Agency and sign a form
confirming they do not want to become employed in the community. Our Campus sets them up in different evaluation situations to see what skills they already have.

Creative Enterprises was Incorporated as a not-for-profit 501 (c)(3) Community Rehabilitation Program in 1979, they provide employment opportunities along with social and life skills training to individuals with developmental disabilities. This is accomplished through on- and off-site work training, job placement assistance, educational programs, community involvement events, and a variety of additional resources.

Click to contribute

Creative Partner: Amanda Pearch

From Homelessness to Hope at HomeStretch, with Cheryl Carter and Brittany Phillips

July 31, 2024 by John Ray

North Fulton Business Radio

From Homelessness to Hope at HomeStretch, with Cheryl Carter and Brittany Phillips

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From Homelessness to Hope at HomeStretch, with Cheryl Carter and Brittany Phillips (North Fulton Business Radio, Episode 791)

In this episode of North Fulton Business Radio, host John Ray introduces Cheryl Carter, Executive Director of HomeStretch, and Brittany Phillips, a HomeStretch client. Cheryl shares insights about HomeStretch, an organization dedicated to providing long-term housing solutions and support to families experiencing homelessness. Brittany provides a personal account of her journey from homelessness and addiction recovery to professional growth and family stability, highlighting the impact of HomeStretch’s comprehensive support programs. They discuss the critical importance of financial literacy, education, and community support in overcoming homelessness and achieving economic independence. The episode concludes with information on how listeners can support HomeStretch’s mission through donations, volunteering, and engaging with their community initiatives.

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.

HomeStretch

HomeStretch originated in 1991 when volunteers at the local North Fulton Community Charities recognized the pressing need for affordable housing in the North Fulton area. As the number of at-risk families seeking housing assistance increased, the charities found themselves limited to providing only emergency, short-term aid.

Today, the agency oversees and maintains 39 single-family residences. With a team of trained human services professionals dedicated to supporting families and the commitment of over 400 compassionate HomeStretch Heroes (volunteers), it strives to ensure the success of its clients.

Website | LinkedIn | Instagram | Facebook

Cheryl Carter, Executive Director, HomeStretch

Cheryl Carter is a results-oriented administrator with over 40 years of executive-level experience in the development, growth and leadership of not-for-profit organizations. Ms. Carter possesses solid capabilities in outcomes-based program development, fundraising, event production, media relations, market research, public/private partnership development, and public speaking. Cheryl’s passion lies in creating programs that empower individuals to overcome poverty.

Cheryl has served on the board of directors of various nonprofit organizations and has received prestigious awards for her community leadership and professional contributions. Before her nonprofit career, she served in the US Army’s 103rd Military Intelligence Division, earning recognition for her service.

Cheryl holds degrees in Business Administration Management and Human Services Management, and she resides in Grayson with her husband Drew, an entertainer. They have three successful adult children and a high school senior.

Topics Covered in this Episode

**Brittany Phillips and Cheryl Carter, HomeStretch**

00:00 Introduction and Welcome to North Fulton Business Radio
01:31 Introducing HomeStretch and Its Mission
02:27 Cheryl’s Journey to HomeStretch
05:07 Understanding Homelessness and Its Root Causes
06:59 Addressing Housing Affordability
10:07 Brittany’s Story of Recovery and Resilience
13:52 The Five Pillars of HomeStretch
22:54 Personal Challenges and Willingness to Change
23:51 The Importance of Savings
25:14 Understanding Executive Functioning
27:30 Brittany’s Journey and Achievements
30:06 Empowering Families and Making Tough Decisions
32:14 Future Goals and Financial Planning
39:11 Supporting HomeStretch and Volunteer Opportunities
42:59 Conclusion and Additional Resources

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

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

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

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

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

Website | LinkedIn | Facebook | Instagram

About North Fulton Business Radio and host John Ray

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

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

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

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

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

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

Empowering Lives Through Unforgettable Journeys, with Christina Menkemeller, Being Positioned

March 28, 2024 by John Ray

North Fulton Business Radio

Empowering Lives Through Unforgettable Journeys, with Christina Menkemeller, Being Positioned

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Empowering Lives Through Unforgettable Journeys, with Christina Menkemeller, Being Positioned (North Fulton Business Radio, Episode 757)

This episode of North Fulton Business Radio features an inspiring and truly unforgettable conversation with Christina Menkemeller, founder and executive director of Being Positioned. Her organization provides unforgettable travel experiences for people with rare genetic disorders. Christina shares her personal journey of navigating life with neurofibromatosis type two (NF2), a rare genetic condition, and how it led her to create Being Positioned. The organization, akin to Make-A-Wish, aims to empower individuals with rare genetic disorders by breaking the cycle of depression through the joy and freedom of travel. Christina discusses the transformative impact of these travel experiences on recipients, including stories of regained confidence and new life perspectives. She also touches on the challenges of running the nonprofit amidst her own health battles. The episode captures the essence of how Being Positioned is not just offering trips but is deeply involved in changing lives by fostering community, hope, courage, and a sense of adventure among those facing difficult diagnoses.

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.

Christina Menkemeller, Founder & Executive Director, Being Positioned

Christina Menkemeller, driven by a deep desire to help others, initially pursued a career in therapy. However, her life changed when she was diagnosed with multiple brain tumors. Her condition, Neurofibromatosis Type 2 (NF2), causes progressive hearing loss, leading her to question the feasibility of a counseling career.

After graduating with a master’s degree in social work, she received an unexpected job offer from her neurooncologist. She was hired as a social worker at the same cancer center where she was receiving chemotherapy. The job felt like a miracle and gave Christina the opportunity to meet the needs of her fellow patients, while learning how to navigate being a patient herself.

But after working there for a year, her doctor decided to give her a break from treatment. So, Christina and her husband quit their jobs to travel the world for 14-months! These transformative experiences led her to establish Being Positioned, a nonprofit providing unforgettable travel adventures for people with rare genetic disorders. Christina combines her unique perspective as a patient and her passion for people to inspire meaningful change through their journey experiences.

Being Positioned is a nonprofit organization that seeks to empower and improve the lives of individuals living with rare genetic disorders. Their mission is to help each person discover purpose through traveling, building community, and creating memorable experiences.

Website | Facebook | Instagram | YouTube

Topics Discussed in this Interview

00:00 Welcome to North Fulton Business Radio
01:30 Introducing Christina Menkemeller from Being Positioned
01:59 The Mission of Being Positioned: Travel Dreams for Those with Rare Genetic Disorders
02:25 Understanding Rare Genetic Disorders
05:42 Christina’s Personal Journey with Neurofibromatosis Type 2
07:53 The Life-Altering Diagnosis and Its Impact
12:15 From Social Worker to Nonprofit Founder: The Birth of Being Positioned
14:38 A World Tour with a Purpose
18:00 The Formation of the Nonprofit, Being Positioned
19:47 Navigating Challenges and the Power of Travel
23:34 Empowering Through Adventure: Real-Life Impact Stories
26:50 The Ripple Effect: Gratitude and Personal Growth
28:29 Fueling the Mission: Fundraising and Community Support
29:44 A Unique Fundraiser: Cereal de Mayo
33:43 Facing the Future: Plans and Personal Challenges
37:50 Closing Thoughts

About North Fulton Business Radio and host John Ray

With over 750 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.

Empowering Small Business Owners: Tax Strategies and Philanthropic Opportunities

February 29, 2024 by Karen

Phoenix Business Radio

Empowering Small Business Owners: Tax Strategies and Philanthropic Opportunities

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Empowering Small Business Owners: Tax Strategies and Philanthropic Opportunities

In this engaging podcast, Karen Nowicki discusses proactive tax planning and charitable contributions for small business owners with Aldo Aprile, a CPA, and Donna Rodgers from the Society of Saint Vincent de Paul. Aldo emphasizes the importance of year-round tax advice and planning for small business owners, including Arizona tax credits, while Donna sheds light on the community-centric mission of Saint Vincent de Paul, urging listeners to contribute and get involved. The conversation touches on financial literacy, personal passions, and the significance of fostering connections for positive impacts in both personal and professional realms.

Get inspired by Aldo and Donna’s stories of personal passion and community involvement, and learn how you can make a positive impact through financial planning and charitable giving.

Aprile CPA: Your boutique accounting partner dedicated to boosting your profits and slashing your taxes.

Aldo Aprile, an ASU grad who’s been in the CPA game since 2004 (yes, that long), has a knack for turning financial gibberish into plain English.

He’s the go-to for business owners who’d rather not use their financial statements as just coffee coasters.

Follow Aprile CPA on LinkedIn, Facebook and Instagram.

St. Vincent de Paul – Phoenix provides services in Central and Northern Arizona to feed, clothe, house and heal those in need. Its mission is twofold–to help people who are struggling and to provide an opportunity for people to help others.

Programs and services include charity dining rooms, food boxes, a medical and dental clinic, housing, homelessness response and prevention, and thrift stores across the valley.

In addition to serving those in need, St. Vincent de Paul believes that strong community engagement and meaningful service opportunities create a stronger and more vibrant community for all.

Donna Rodgers worked 23 years in the legal field during which she was a paralegal as well as assisting attorneys with educating the public on legal issues, specifically elder law and estate planning.

After serving on boards of several nonprofits, including those focused on helping seniors and those experiencing food insecurity, she felt true fulfillment in helping others in need and made the decision to change careers. She has worked in the nonprofit field since 2006 with the last nearly 11 years at St. Vincent de Paul.

Follow St. Vincent de Paul on LinkedIn, Facebook, X and Instagram.

David Martinez III with Vitalyst Health Foundation and Paula Cullison with Arizona Women’s Partnership

November 27, 2023 by Karen

David-Martinez-with-Vitalyst-Health-Foundation-and-Paula-Cullison-with-Arizona-Womens-Partnership-feature

Phoenix Business Radio

David Martinez III with Vitalyst Health Foundation and Paula Cullison with Arizona Women's Partnership

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David Martinez III with Vitalyst Health Foundation and Paula Cullison with Arizona Women’s Partnership

Vitalyst Health Foundation is on a mission to connect, support, and inform efforts to improve the health of individuals and communities in Arizona.

Established following the sale of the St. Luke’s Health System to a for-profit corporation in 1996, the foundation operated as St. Luke’s Charitable Health Trust (1996–1999) and St. Luke’s Health Initiatives (2000–2016).

Over its history, Vitalyst has invested more than $130 million into Arizona health, in areas ranging from statewide health policy to local community gardens. Along the way, the organization has established itself as a thought leader, convener, framer, and catalyst of key health initiatives and coalitions.

David Martinez III serves as Director of Strategic Community Partnerships, working with community-based leaders, organizations, and coalitions to increase capacity and civic participation.

Prior to Vitalyst, Martinez was project manager for the Center for the Future of Arizona, and community engagement manager for St. Mary’s Food Bank Alliance. He is a Flinn-Brown Fellow with the Arizona Center for Civic Leadership, and involved with the Arizona Community Foundation’s Center for LGBTQ Philanthropy and the Desert Botanical Garden.

Originally from Marana, Arizona and one of six children, David is a first generation college student earning a B.A. in Secondary Education, Political Science and Journalism from The University of Arizona. He served as Student Regent on the Arizona Board of Regents, worked at the UA Office of Institutional Equity, and interned with Congressman Raul Grijalva.

Martinez currently lives in Central Phoenix and as a localist, loves to explore Arizona.

Connect with David on LinkedIn and follow Vitalyst Health Foundation on Facebook, Twitter and Instagram.

The Arizona Women’s Partnership was formed in 2002 as an all-volunteer philanthropic 501 c3 nonprofit to award grants to small Arizona based charities that assist disadvantaged women and children in Arizona. To this end, two fundraising events which focused on females in the culinary industry were created: Getting Our Just Desserts and Wine, WoMEN & Jazz. To date AZWP has awarded over $600,000 to over 90 nonprofits – most of which are multi-year grant recipients. They deal with critical issues: domestic violence, child abuse, youth at risk, ESL, literacy, food insecurity, refugee families, homelessness, work readiness, services for the elderly, crisis counseling, etc.

Paula Cullison has an extensive background in marketing, nonprofit management, public relations and social work, A native New Yorker, she has lived in Phoenix since 1974. As President of Women in Management for a major national corporation, Paula created an extensive statewide project – The Year for All Arizona Women – which hosted over 100 events. Paula was involved in the First Earth Day event through Citizens for a Better New York.

She has traveled to over 50 countries, worked in Switzerland, and has attended several UN and other international conferences. Paula’s international travel articles and over 80 photography exhibits have been enjoyed by many. She is the recipient of several prestigious award: YWCW Tribute to Leadership Award, MLK Service Award, Susan B. Anthony Award, Macy*s Heart & Soul Award, Susan G. Koman Ribbon of Hope Award, etc.

Paula served on the Phoenix Women’s Commission and the Futures Forum. In 2002 Paula created the Arizona Women’s Partnership, an all-volunteer nonprofit, in order to award grants to small charities that served disadvantaged women and children. To date, AZWP has awarded over $600,000 in grants to over 90 charities that assist over 250,000 annually. In 2020 she created and curated a statewide art exhibition to commemorate the 100th anniversary of the 19th amendment and trade-named it ‘In Celebration of Women’. 38 artists were selected by a jury reflective of the cultural diversity in AZ.

This year she curated another juried art exhibit ‘In Celebration of Women II – Making HERstory’. The 37 featured artists will be at the AZ Capitol Museum until Dec 16th. An avid hiker, Paula has hiked numerous trails in AZ as well as the Grand Canyon 7 times – including Rim2Rim in a day. She enjoys reading internationally focused historical fiction. Paula is active with several international organizations.

Follow Arizona Women’s Partnership on LinkedIn, Facebook, Twitter and Instagram.