North Fulton Business Radio Archives - Page 47 of 72

Richard Grove, Wall Control

January 18, 2022 by John Ray

North Fulton Business Radio

Richard Grove, Wall Control

00:00 /

Richard Grove, Wall Control (North Fulton Business Radio, Episode 426)

A third-generation family member in senior management at Wall Control, Richard joined host John Ray to share how Wall Control grew and evolved from a small tool & die shop to a manufacturer of the best wall-mounted storage system available. Richard also announced a new Business RadioX-produced show, Organization Conversation, which will feature Wall Control customers, strategic partners, professional organizers, and other authorities in the world of organizing. North Fulton Business Radio is broadcast from the North Fulton studio of Business RadioX® inside Renasant Bank in Alpharetta.

Wall Control

Wall Control is committed to being the industry leader in pegboard style storage & organization. Simply put, no other tool storage system can match the quality, versatility, and value of the award-winning Wall Control System.

Our commitment to quality is not only reflected in our product but is also evident in our practices. We strive to do right by our customers every day, starting at product design conception and continuing through with superb product and customer support.

Being committed to quality means keeping a close eye on product production to be sure that the Wall Control values are stamped into every panel and accessory that is produced. We achieve this by manufacturing our entire product line here, in the USA.

The Wall Control story begins in 1968 in a small tool & die shop just outside Atlanta, Georgia. The first of three generations began their work in building a family-based US manufacturer with little more than hard work and the American Dream.

Over the past 50+ years, this family business has continued to grow and expand from what was once a small tool & die shop into an award-winning US manufacturer of products ranging from automobile components to satellite panels and now, the best wall-mounted tool storage system available today, Wall Control.

The Wall Control brand launched in 2003, and is a family-owned and operated business that not only produces a high-quality American Made product but sees the entire design, production, and distribution process happen under our own roof in Tucker, Georgia. Under that same roof, you’ll still find 3 generations of American Manufacturing hard at work to bring you the best tool storage products available today.

Our Product

The award-winning and affordable Wall Control pegboard storage system solves six main wall-mounted storage challenges better than any other system available today: Durability, Strength, Versatility, Ease of Installation, Attractive Appearance, and Value.

Clean And Efficient Pegboard Tool Storage

Durability – Our strong metal pegboard prevents the peg holes from fraying and wearing out over time. Traditional pegboard panels start out ugly, wear out quickly, and eventually, the pegboard hooks no longer stay engaged in their peg hole and will fall out when the tool is removed. Our panel face, manufactured in the US from 20 gauge steel, ensures that Wall Control’s system will last a lifetime; many times longer than traditional pegboard products.

Strength – Traditional pegboard is weak by nature due to the material it is made from. The strength of steel, combined with a formed flange around the perimeter, and our One-Piece Installation pegboard make our metal pegboard panels over 10 times stronger than conventional pegboard and more secure than any other metal pegboard system. More strength equals more storage. Wall Control Pegboard also mounts directly to the wall requiring no cleat or rail system to be installed first. This “Direct to Wall” pegboard mounting system is inherently more secure than other mounting systems because the panel is not “hanging” off of any rail or cleat and the Flush-With-Wall return flanges on Wall Control Pegboards allow the installation screw head to snug up tight with solid panel-to-wall contact removing all torque from the installation screw, ensuring a secure installation for heavy lifting.

Versatile and Easy To Install Pegboard Design

Versatility – Our unique “Combo” style panels allow the user the option of utilizing 1/4 in traditional pegboard hooks as well as our own patented, much more secure, “double offset” hook and slot design. Wall Control’s metal panels are also magnetic so you can attach all your magnetic accessories, a truly encompassing omni tool wall storage organization system. Engineered for both secure engagement and ease of movement, Wall Control’s Hooks, Brackets, Shelves, and Accessories will install easily and stay put. The versatility of these storage panels is also highlighted by the all-steel shelving system that Wall Control panels support. Finally, a pegboard system that has the ability to support substantial weight on a matching, integrated shelving system.

Ease of installation – Wall Control installs in minutes. Wall Control panels offer a simple One-Piece Installation, simply mount the panels directly to the wall and you’re done. Ease of installation was a key criterion during the design phase of this pegboard system. Manufactured with a built-in flange on all four sides, the Wall Control storage panel requires no pre-built framework and mounts directly to any flat surface. The flange spaces the panel’s perforated face away from the wall so that the hooks, brackets, and shelves will engage with no wasted area. The convenient 16″x32″ standard size and modular design make it easy to handle and a snap to install. If you have traditional 16″ stud spacing, you can hit studs all the way down your wall with Wall Control’s brilliant mounting hole instructions. If not, have no worries, we include drywall anchors as well, so hitting studs is not required, although obviously preferred, if possible.

Attractive Appearance – Available in eight durable, scratch-resistant, powder-coated colors as well as a very reflective and attractive metallic galvanized finish, Wall Control Storage Systems truly are suitable for use in any location wall-mounted storage is desired in the home, office, or workplace. These high-quality finishes resist rust and stains and even wipe clean with a damp rag. When you combine sleek design with a high-quality finish, you can’t go wrong.

Affordability & Value – Simply put, no other system on the market offers the affordability and value of a Wall Control Pegboard Storage System.

For years Wall Control storage systems have been and continue to be the industry leader when it comes to pegboard tool storage and organization, and for good reason, but don’t take our word for it. We encourage you to check out our online product reviews from reputable places like Amazon and Home Depot to see for yourself that our products truly are in a league of their own when it comes to quality, versatility, value, customer service, and ultimately, customer satisfaction.

Company Website | Facebook | LinkedIn

Richard Grove, COO, Wall Control

Richard Grove is the COO of Wall Control, a family-owned and operated brand of Wall Storage and Organization Systems ranging from Garage Tool Storage to Kitchen Wall Organizers and even Industrial Tool Organizational Systems for industry-leading Fortune 100 companies across the globe.

Richard’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.

Shortly after Richard arrived in 2008 the economy took a turn for the worse. Much of the work Dekalb Tool & Die was holding on to was leaving the shop to go to Mexico, China, or some other offshore source. Seemingly overnight it became apparent that in order 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.

Today Wall Control is responsible for the employment of 50+ employees and occupies a 60,000+ square foot physical footprint of its own while still growing rapidly. Wall Control is also proud to say that they are now Dekalb Tool & Die’s biggest customer by volume sold through their shop.

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 advising through his website ConsultantSmallBusiness.com. Richard has developed an expansive and unique skillset growing and scaling Wall Control through a multitude of challenges to 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

Questions and Topics Discussed in this Episode

Tell us about Wall Control and how it began
Who uses your products?
Is this a custom system?
What is Organization Conversation?
Tell us about Workbench Con

North Fulton Business Radio is hosted by John Ray, and broadcast 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, Stitcher, TuneIn, and others.

Renasant Bank has humble roots, starting in 1904 as a $100,000 bank in a Lee County, Mississippi, bakery. Since then, Renasant has grown to 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.

Special thanks to A&S Culinary Concepts for their support of this edition of North Fulton Business Radio. A&S Culinary Concepts, based in Johns Creek, is an award-winning culinary studio, celebrated for corporate catering, corporate team building, Big Green Egg Boot Camps, and private group events. They also provide oven-ready, cooked from scratch meals to go they call “Let Us Cook for You.” To see their menus and events, go to their website or call 678-336-9196.

Todd Callen, AcSellerate Sales Advisors

December 21, 2021 by John Ray

North Fulton Business Radio

Todd Callen, AcSellerate Sales Advisors

00:00 /

Todd Callen, AcSellerate Sales Advisors (North Fulton Business Radio, Episode 425)

Todd Callen, President of AcSellerate Sales Advisors, changes business owners’ lives by building them the best sales teams. His work doesn’t just improve sales, but ultimately relieves business owner stress. He and host John Ray discussed the new remote sales dynamic brought on by the pandemic, how business owners are struggling to adjust, the impact of the labor shortage, and much more. North Fulton Business Radio is broadcast from the North Fulton studio of Business RadioX® inside Renasant Bank in Alpharetta.

AcSellerate Sales Advisors

AcSellerate Sales Advisors is focused on helping companies achieve consistent sales growth through the improvement of all aspects of a sales organization.

They help companies achieve sales targets across a range of industries by building successful sales plans, building a disciplined sales approach, and aligning sales teams. AcSellerate Sales Advisors takes a proven results-oriented strategic and tactical approach to turn underperforming sales teams into revenue-producing market leaders. Their focus is on people, process, systems, and messaging to achieve maximum results.

Many businesses struggle to grow their sales. Sales Xceleration provides business owners with an experienced Sales Consultant to drive sales growth when you need it most.

As your local Advisor utilizing the Sales Xceleration platform, Todd helps clients build a sales engine and create record-breaking growth for their business.

Company Website | LinkedIn

Todd Callen, President, AcSellerate Sales Advisors

Todd Callen’s passion is helping business owners rapidly grow their sales. He is President of AcSellerate Sales Advisors and works with small and mid-sized businesses as a Fractional CRO/VP of Sales.

Todd has over 25 years of Sales and Revenue leadership experience, working with small to mid-size companies to aggressively grow the sales and revenue engine to achieve hypergrowth. He views sales as a blend of the quantitative (the sales numbers, the forecast, the pipeline, the close rates) and the qualitative (how “effective” is our positioning, value proposition, ability to convey and persuade).

Todd lives in Roswell, GA with his wife Kelly, and his two children Dillon and Presley.

Questions and Topics Discussed in this Episode

How has COVID and the pandemic changed the way businesses interact?
How has this changed the dynamic of the sales function and how salespeople interact with customers and prospects?
So how can sales teams adjust to this new remote dynamic?
What should sales teams be focused on?
Does more virtual selling and managing create challenges for business owners as it relates to managing and tracking their sales teams?
Have you seen the labor and talent shortage impact the sales function in companies, and what can business owners do about it?
If the world has shifted, what should business owners be thinking about as it relates to growing their sales going forward?
Many business owners know their business and industry but struggle with managing other functions of their business, such as sales. What message do you have for these business owners?
What exactly does a “Fractional Sales VP” do and why is it valuable given everything we just discussed?

Rachel Dangerfield, Kendra Plotkin, and Debbie Ryals, Greater North Fulton Chamber of Commerce

December 20, 2021 by John Ray

North Fulton Business Radio

Rachel Dangerfield, Kendra Plotkin, and Debbie Ryals, Greater North Fulton Chamber of Commerce

00:00 /

Rachel Dangerfield, Kendra Plotkin, and Debbie Ryals, Greater North Fulton Chamber of Commerce (North Fulton Business Radio, Episode 424)

On this edition of North Fulton Business Radio, Rachel Dangerfield, Kendra Plotkin, and Debbie Ryals of the Greater North Fulton Chamber of Commerce joined host John Ray to discuss their respective roles at the Chamber, events and opportunities for engagement, the benefits of membership, GNFCC’s recent accreditation which places it in the top 1% of chambers nationwide, and much more. North Fulton Business Radio is broadcast from the North Fulton studio of Business RadioX® inside Renasant Bank in Alpharetta.

Rachel Dangerfield, Leadership Programs Coordinator, GNFCC

**Rachel Dangerfield, Leadership Programs Coordinator, Greater North Fulton Chamber of Commerce**

Rachel Dangerfield is the Leadership Programs Coordinator for the Greater North Fulton Chamber of Commerce. She runs Leadership North Fulton, Emerging Leaders, NextGen Young Professionals, and the Leadership North Fulton Alumni Program.

Rachel came to work at the Chamber in March 2020. She has a degree in public relations from Kennesaw State University.

Kendra Plotkin, Director of Member Engagement, GNFCC

**Kendra Plotkin, Director of Member Engagement, Greater North Fulton Chamber of Commerce**

As Director of Member Engagement, Kendra helps members get involved, network, and make the most of their Chamber membership. Her responsibilities include Chamber 101, Ribbon Cuttings & Grand Openings, Ambassadors & Diplomats, and Small Business Seminars.

Kendra has been with GNFCC for nineteen years.

Debbie Ryals, Director of Events, GNFCC

**Debbie Ryals, Director of Events, Greater North Fulton Chamber of Commerce**

As Director of Events, Debbie Ryals manages the Chamber’s networking events, Business After-Hours, luncheons, Annual Gala, Golf & Tennis Classic, and Women Influencing Business.

Debbie has been with the Chamber for almost fourteen years.

Dr. Ben Zussman, Wellstar North Fulton Hospital

December 20, 2021 by John Ray

North Fulton Business Radio

Dr. Ben Zussman, Wellstar North Fulton Hospital

00:00 /

Dr. Ben Zussman, Wellstar North Fulton Hospital (North Fulton Business Radio, Episode 423)

Dr. Ben Zussman, Neurosurgeon at Wellstar North Fulton Hospital, joined host John Ray to share the exciting news that Wellstar North Fulton now offers comprehensive stroke and aneurysm treatments for stroke victims, the first and only facility in the North Fulton region to provide such care. Dr. Zussman discussed what is involved in these procedures, which allow minimally invasive physical removal of a clot and immediate restoration of blood flow to the brain. He also discussed why these treatments are so time-critical for stroke victims, and why Wellstar North Fulton’s capabilities are so important for our region, given our location in the “The Stroke Belt.” North Fulton Business Radio is broadcast from the North Fulton studio of Business RadioX® inside Renasant Bank in Alpharetta.

Wellstar North Fulton Hospital

Equipped with the latest technology and medical expertise, Wellstar North Fulton Hospital is committed to delivering quality, personalized care, tailored to you. From their convenient Roswell location, Wellstar North Fulton Hospital offers the most advanced stroke care and leading therapies, specializing in complicated and complex cases. Count on their dedicated neuro team, state-of-the-art imaging technologies, and neuro-trained intensive care unit (ICU), to treat all types of strokes, including ischemic strokes, intracerebral hemorrhages, and subarachnoid hemorrhages.

Wellstar North Fulton’s team of neurosurgeons, neurocritical care physicians, and neuroradiologists perform thrombectomies, aneurysm treatments and cerebral bypass procedures. In addition, our dedicated hybrid neurovascular suite is equipped with innovative bi-plane technology. This allows neurosurgeons to view highly detailed images of brain vessels, so our experts can customize treatments in real-time. That means you don’t have to go far for expert stroke treatment.

From diagnostic testing to life-saving emergency care to physical rehabilitation, Wellstar North Fulton Hospital provides comprehensive stroke care so you can get back to life, faster.

Company Website | Facebook

Dr. Ben Zussman, Neurosurgeon, Wellstar North Fulton Hospital

Ben Zussman, MD is a cerebrovascular and spine neurosurgeon with the Wellstar Medical Group. His research on the treatment of cerebrovascular disease has resulted in novel surgical techniques and improvements in patient safety and satisfaction. Dr. Zussman is passionate about providing safe, high-quality patient care.

His two areas of specific expertise within neurosurgery are cerebrovascular neurosurgery and spine surgery.

He treats the entire spectrum of blood vessel problems in the head, neck, and spinal cord. Sometimes he approaches the blood vessels from the outside with microsurgery. For example, he performs clipping of intracranial aneurysms, carotid endarterectomies, and microvascular decompressions. Other times they treat the vessels from within using endovascular techniques. For example, Dr. Zussman performs coiling of intracranial aneurysms, carotid artery stenting, and embolization of vascular malformations. A significant portion of his cerebrovascular practice involves emergency care, including acute stroke interventions and brain hemorrhages. His training in both microsurgery and endovascular surgery enables him to tailor the surgical strategy for each individual patient.

He also treats spinal disorders in the neck, trunk, and low back. When they operate on the spine they care for the spinal cord and nerves, and also for the bones and discs that make up our skeleton. For example, he performs laminectomies and foraminotomies, and also fusions, discectomies, and arthroplasties.

Finally, he treats many general neurosurgical pathologies as well, including brain and spine tumors, subdural hematomas, hydrocephalus, and carpal tunnel syndrome.

Website | LinkedIn

Questions and Topics Discussed in this Episode

Practically speaking, what happens when someone is having a major stroke?
How do we treat patients with neuro-endovascular surgery?
How do we treat patients with open cerebrovascular surgery?
Why is it so important for the local community to have access to the highest level of neuro care nearby?
What are we building at Wellstar and why is it special and exciting?
How can I work to prevent a stroke in the first place?

Thomas Storteboom, i2e Solutions

December 10, 2021 by John Ray

North Fulton Business Radio

Thomas Storteboom, i2e Solutions

00:00 /

Thomas Storteboom, i2e Solutions (North Fulton Business Radio, Episode 422)

Thomas Storteboom, CEO of i2e Solutions, joined host John Ray to discuss the innovation and product development consulting he does for a variety of companies. Thomas and John talked about how i2e Solutions helps companies take their ideas to fruition, avoid stagnation, identify roadblocks and bottlenecks, assess the costs involved, and much more. North Fulton Business Radio is broadcast from the North Fulton studio of Business RadioX® inside Renasant Bank in Alpharetta.

i2e Solutions

i2e Solutions can help you clarify opportunities that impact your future.

Utilizing a holistic team approach, i2e Solutions helps explore, solve, and implement solutions to your most intriguing ideas and opportunities, from Idea to Execution.

Do you have limited resources looking for new ideas and bringing them to life? i2e Solutions has the expertise to help.

Company Website | LinkedIn

Thomas Storteboom, Founder and CEO, i2e Solutions

i2e Solutions was founded by Thomas Storteboom to help companies discover answers to questions they do not know how to solve.

Thomas brings decades of leadership experience at industry-leading companies to i2e Solutions. He built a career leading cross-functional teams that designed the future for their customers and team members.

Thomas has managed global R&D and product development teams, created innovation programs from the ground up, and re-designed nationwide processes. His experiences can help you solve your most complex issues.

Questions and Topics Discussed in this Episode

What is i2e and what do you do?
What is your background?
How do you manage risk?
How do you assist owners with the business challenges of innovation?
Spending a little to learn a lot
Success Stories

ATL Developments with Geoff Smith: Ribbon Cutting for the new Assurance Financial office in Roswell, GA

December 3, 2021 by John Ray

North Fulton Business Radio

ATL Developments with Geoff Smith: Ribbon Cutting for the new Assurance Financial office in Roswell, GA

00:00 /

ATL Developments with Geoff Smith: Ribbon Cutting for the new Assurance Financial office in Roswell, GA

On this special edition of ATL Developments, North Fulton Business RadioX® host John Ray broadcast live from the ribbon cutting of the new Assurance Financial office in Roswell, led by Geoff Smith. John interviewed several key Assurance Financial executives who attended the celebration as well as real estate agents who came to support Geoff. The turnout was amazing, and Geoff was so busy that John and Geoff didn’t get to have a conversation until the next day by phone! Congratulations to Geoff and the rest of the Assurance Financial team on the new Roswell office!

Regular episodes of ATL Developments with Geoff Smith are broadcast from the North Fulton studio of Business RadioX® inside Renasant Bank in Alpharetta.

Kenny Hodges, President & CEO, Assurance Financial

Kenny Hodges is the President and CEO of Assurance Financial. After working with Wells Fargo for seven years out of college, he founded Assurance Financial in 2001 and has grown the company to over 20 branch offices supported by two operations centers. He is a licensed mortgage banker through the National Mortgage Licensing System Registry and has 27 years of mortgage lending experience. Kenny earned a B.S. in Entrepreneurship Management from Louisiana Tech University where he was elected to serve as the Student Government Association President. He is an active member of the Mortgage Bankers Association and the Louisiana Mortgage Lenders Association where he is a past Board President. He is a member of Young Presidents Organization (YPO) Louisiana and is a past Chapter Chair. Kenny currently serves on the Louisiana Tech University College of Business Dean’s Advisory Board. Kenny is married with three children and resides in Baton Rouge, Louisiana.

Clavis Smith

Clavis entered the mortgage business in 1989 and has held numerous positions in mortgage origination and sales production before moving exclusively into sales leadership in 2014. He joined Assurance Financial in 2018 as the Eastern Regional Sales Manager. His experience in retail mortgage production provides great guidance and support to branch leaders and loan production personnel. Clavis is also very active in both state and national Mortgage Banker’s Associations advocating on issues to support the industry. He is a graduate of the University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill, and currently resides in Glen Allen, VA with his wife. He has four children and one grandchild, and enjoys fishing on the Chesapeake Bay or playing tennis and golf in his spare time.

Chris Bartelski, Realtor and Educator

Chris’ passion for helping his wonderful clients find their home comes from his family house. Filled with 2 energetic boys, 2 cats, and a dog, it’s everything he ever wanted. It’s a gift that he will never take for granted. Using his experience as a marketer and associate broker, his purpose is to help you find your happy.

Website | LinkedIn

Damian Cook, Atlanta Branch Manager, Assurance Financial

Damian Cook is a Branch Manager and Loan Officer in the Atlanta Branch of Assurance Financial. Recognized for outstanding service, Damian has helped more than 775 clients become homeowners. Over 95% of borrowers who participated in a survey gave Assurance Financial the highest satisfaction rating. 100% of those rated Damian Cook’s attention to detail and customer service excellence as their primary reasons for the high satisfaction rating.

A native Georgian, Damian is involved with several organizations; he is as an active member of Dunwoody Baptist Church, Committee Chair of Young Life Perimeter North, and a volunteer of the Atlanta Food Bank. Damian enjoys CrossFit and traveling and spending time with his wife and three children. He graduated from the University of Alabama and received his master’s degree from Mercer University.

Damian is a recipient of the 2013, 2014 and 2015 Mortgage Bankers Association of Georgia Gold Award, and the 2016 Mortgage Bankers Association of Georgia Platinum Award. He is licensed with the Nationwide Mortgage Licensing System and Registry in the state of Georgia.

Michael Hernandez, The Hernandez Group

Michael & Roxie joined the Atlanta Board of Realtors in July of 1995. Roxie immediately began helping buyers and sellers with their real estate needs, earning “Rookie of the Year” while Michael finalized the sale of his family business.

In 1998, Michael joined Roxie forming the Hernandez Group. They have since added a full-time Team Coordinator, several agents specializing in buyer representation, a full-time Business Development Department and a Multi-Lingual Agent, further improving the level of service they provide their clients.

The Hernandez Group is dedicated to building relationships and committed to providing the highest level of customer service that is embodied by all in their office. They take the extra steps necessary to fully grasp their clients’ needs: whether it’s buying or selling their first home, downsizing from their estate home, starting an investment portfolio with rental property, giving advice such as whether to build onto their current home or move to a larger home or looking for land to build their perfect home.

When you work with the Hernandez Group you get the full service and attention their highly qualified team believes you deserve.The Hernandez Group specializes in: Single Family Homes, Luxury Homes, Estate Sales, Condo/Townhomes, Lease Purchase Programs, New Construction, Relocation (In/Out of Georgia), Investment/Rental Properties,1031 Tax Free Exchanges & Self-directed IRA’s.

Geoff Smith, Host of ATL Developments with Geoff Smith

ATL Developments with Geoff Smith covers all things economic development in the Atlanta Metro area. From everything inside the Beltline to Avalon and beyond, Geoff Smith interviews the movers and shakers making the ATL one of the best places to live, work and play. An archive of past episodes can be found here.

Geoff Smith is a mortgage banker with Assurance Financial working with Real Estate agents and homebuyers to help them get happily to their closing table. Geoff is an authority on the latest economic development trends shaping the Atlanta Metro area. His interviews reveal an inside perspective at how things get done in the ATL.

Geoff is an active member of his community serving on the Board of Directors of the Greater North Fulton Chamber of Commerce, as well as holding the position of chairman for the Chamber’s Education Committee. He is also Secretary of the Roswell Youth Baseball Association and coaches his sons in football, baseball and basketball. Geoff enjoys golf, camping and traveling with his wife and two sons. He is a graduate of the University of Georgia.

Debra Forrest, Forrest Consulting & Associates, Inc.

December 3, 2021 by John Ray

North Fulton Business Radio

Debra Forrest, Forrest Consulting & Associates, Inc.

00:00 /

Debra Forrest, Forrest Consulting & Associates, Inc. (North Fulton Business Radio, Episode 416)

With a deep background in commercial real estate valuations, Debra Forrest, President and Principal Broker at Forrest Consulting and Associates, brings value-added experience to her brokerage practice. Debra and host John Ray discussed various aspects of the current commercial real estate market, common mistakes tenants make, the value of appraisals, tax assessments, and much more. North Fulton Business Radio is broadcast from the North Fulton studio of Business RadioX® inside Renasant Bank in Alpharetta.

Forrest Consulting & Associates, Inc.

Forrest Consulting & Associates, Inc. (FCA) is an emerging commercial and investment real estate practice offering clients comprehensive solutions when buying and selling commercial properties. Our specialty is maximizing value in commercial assets. Our goal is to help clients get it right from the start because the value is created when you buy. and avoid overpaying. FCA solution strategies are designed to help:

1. Business owners open new locations that maximize production
2. Investors increase equity through the process of acquiring, managing, and disposing of assets
3. Commercial property owners reduce tax liabilities

Forrest Consulting & Associates, Inc. is a registered brokerage firm with the Georgia Real Estate Commission.

Company Website | LinkedIn | Facebook

Debra Forrest, President & Principal Broker, Forrest Consulting & Associates

Debra Forrest brings 24-years of experience in commercial real estate valuations into her brokerage and asset management practice. Her analysis has helped clients make investment and financial decisions involving retail, office, multi-family, commercial land, distressed properties and more.

Debra is a retired Georgia Hearing Officer, presiding more than eight years over property tax appeals at the Fulton County Board of Equalization. She has rendered fair market value decisions in disputes between county tax appraisers and owners of complex commercial properties throughout Atlanta, Midtown, Buckhead, Sandy Springs, and many in Alpharetta, including the Avalon development.

She is a graduate of the University of Mississippi (Ole Miss) with a B.B.A. in Real Estate and has been in real estate ever since.

Debra is a licensed Georgia Real Estate Broker and Certified General Real Property Appraiser. She is a member of the Atlanta Commercial Board of Realtors and Candidate Member of the CCIM Institute (Certified Commercial Investment Member).

Questions and Topics Discussed in this Episode

What is the difference between real estate vs real property?
What are the different types and lease structures and how do you help prospective tenants understand the terms?
What tenants should know when leasing office space for their family business.
What tenants should know when leasing retail space for their family business.
What is the biggest concern business owners have when buying or selling commercial real estate?
Do you perform Broker Price Opinions (BPO)?

Molly Welch, A Second Later

November 30, 2021 by John Ray

North Fulton Business Radio

Molly Welch, A Second Later

00:00 /

Molly Welch, A Second Later (North Fulton Business Radio, Episode 414)

Molly Welch, Founder of A Second Later, joined the show to share her story of how a head-on collision in college, caused by distracted driving, resulting in a traumatic brain injury. She tenaciously fought to recover, finished her college education, and founded A Second Later to spread her story and to warn of the dangers of distracted driving. She and host John Ray discussed her accident, recovery, her work, and much more. North Fulton Business Radio is broadcast from the North Fulton studio of Business RadioX® inside Renasant Bank in Alpharetta.

A Second Later

It was winter her junior year of college and Molly was writing for “The Plainsman” at Auburn University.

She had completed an interview on a hand-held recorder and was driving back to campus to write her article. Eager to start her latest assignment, Molly briefly looked down to hit the record button on her device, recording the entire accident on tape.

“A second later,” her entire life changed.

n 2017, she produced a public service announcement together with key individuals to help spread her message to drivers everywhere. It aired in several states. From there, she was inspired to start her own non-profit, motivational speaking company, A Second Later. Through her organization, she has been able to tell her story to schools, businesses, professional organizations, civic groups, and even legislators in the State of Georgia.

Help her stop distracted driving by inviting her to speak to your organization, purchasing a car magnet, or simply donating to A Second Later.

Company Website | LinkedIn | Facebook | Twitter

Molly Welch, Founder, A Second Later

Molly Welch, the founder of the non-profit organization, A Second Later, has dedicated her life to ending distracted driving. Her mission is to bring awareness to the dangers and realities of distracted driving.

In 2008 while traveling down the highway close to Auburn University, Molly briefly looked away from the road and wound up in a head-on collision. She sustained a traumatic brain injury, and to this day has no use of her right arm, limited use of her right leg, and a softer voice. Since her accident, she has worked tirelessly to help others avoid such a fate.

Questions and Topics Discussed in this Episode

Tell us about your story
What made you choose to start a nonprofit?
What does A Second Later do?
What groups do you speak to?
What’s ahead for you?

Maggie DeCan, Children’s Development Academy

November 30, 2021 by John Ray

North Fulton Business Radio

Maggie DeCan, Children's Development Academy

00:00 /

Maggie DeCan, Children’s Development Academy (North Fulton Business Radio, Episode 413)

The Children’s Development Academy, founded fifty years ago, focuses on high-quality early education and childcare for low-income families in North Fulton. CEO and Executive Director Maggie DeCan joined host John Ray to talk about their mission, why their work is such a compelling long-term investment for the North Fulton community, how she moved from corporate to nonprofit work, and much more. North Fulton Business Radio is broadcast from the North Fulton studio of Business RadioX® inside Renasant Bank in Alpharetta.

Children’s Development Academy

The Children’s Development Academy (CDA) enjoys a rich history of broad support, built over the past five decades.

Focused on low-income working families in our community, the CDA can serve 156 children each day ages 12 months through 5 years in our full-day early care and learning program, including three Georgia Pre-K classes.

The CDA is NAEYC-accredited (National Association for the Education of Young Children), the highest level of accreditation available to any education program, with a curriculum committed to preparing children to be “ready by five” for school success.

In July 2015, the CDA received the highest rating of three stars from Georgia’s Quality Rated program. The Quality Rated system was designed so that any parent selecting a program participating in Quality Rated can feel confident that they are enrolling their child in a program that is committed to continuous quality improvement and higher quality standards.

Company Website | LinkedIn | Facebook | Twitter

Maggie DeCan, CEO and Executive Director, Children’s Development Academy

Maggie DeCan took the helm at the CDA in November of 2016 with considerable experience in both corporate and community leadership as well as having been an active volunteer and financial contributor to the CDA and its mission. With an active board, she has led organizational rebranding as well as driving strategic priorities focused on increased enrollment, sustainable giving, and quality outcomes.

Prior to taking the helm at the CDA Maggie ran day-to-day operations for the HoneyBaked Ham national system as president and COO leading a team responsible for $500MM annually of system sales in 500 corporate and franchise operating units. Her leadership style is built on a focus on the customer and those who serve them. Prior to assuming the role of President and COO, Maggie served as Chief Human Resource Officer.

Before HoneyBaked, Maggie served in human resources for well-known retailers Circuit City, Belk, and Macy’s. Maggie graduated with a bachelor’s degree in political science and communications from the University of Michigan. Maggie’s leadership experience extends to the community where she has become a respected educational advocate, receiving an award from the State of GA PTA for visionary leadership. In 2014 she was a finalist for the Turknett Leadership Character Award and in 2015, she was honored by the Georgia Diversity Council as a “Most Powerful and Influential Woman” and in 2016 was a Womentics P.O.W. winner.

She has served on the Advisory Board for the Children’s Restoration Network and as Chairman Emeritus Roswell North Elementary Education Foundation, a 501(c) 3 that she helped found in 2009. She is also past president of the Woodstock Junior Service League.

Maggie’s free time is spent first with her family. Her husband of 35 years, Bob, is a high school economics teacher, son Riley a junior UGA and son Brady a freshman at UTK.

Questions and Topics Discussed in this Episode

How did the CDA get its start?
Why is the mission of the CDA important to the North Fulton community?
What are the benefits of early childhood education?
How can the community get involved and help with your mission?
Why did you make the switch from the corporate world to running a nonprofit?
Tell us more about the partnership with Be Rich that you are launching today for Giving Tuesday