John Ray, Author at Business RadioX ® Page

Exceptional Leadership Insights with John Ott

April 2, 2025 by John Ray

North Fulton Business Radio

Exceptional Leadership Insights with John Ott

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Exceptional Leadership Insights with John Ott (North Fulton Business Radio, Episode 858)

In this episode of North Fulton Business Radio, host John Ray interviews John Ott from Exceptional Leaders. Ott shares his journey into leadership coaching, emphasizing the importance of curiosity and understanding group dynamics, personal growth, and effective communication. He discusses the significance of being “inwardly sound” and “others focused” as key leadership qualities. John also highlights the importance of self-awareness and presents a 360-degree feedback tool to help leaders understand their strengths and areas for improvement. The episode concludes with John sharing success stories and offering insights into the holistic growth of leaders and their businesses.

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.

John Ott, Co-Founder & Executive Coach, Exceptional Leaders

John Ott

Since 1999, John has led and developed hundreds of leaders in a variety of organizations: corporations, small businesses, startups, and non-profits. He is a co-founder and principal of Exceptional Leaders, LLC, a venture focused on guiding leaders and teams to achieve long-term, sustained excellence through advanced leadership development and integral coaching.

In the coaching context, John blends creative strategy with a deep understanding of human behavior and development. His approach is rooted in a long-standing curiosity around three questions:

How do people grow?
How do groups of people work together to accomplish amazing things?
How are ideas effectively communicated from one person or group to another?

John’s work consistently revolves around the alignment of people and resources with a unified mission. While portions of his time have been spent honing these skills in the non-profit sector, he has also actively consulted with a variety of for-profit and non-profit organizations in the areas of strategic operations and leadership development.

John began his career on the staff of a church in Nashville, TN, where he gained exposure to a broad spectrum of leadership opportunities. He went on to help found an industry-leading, high-tech, audio-visual firm. After that firm had gained sufficient traction, John went back into the non-profit sector, eventually joining the staff of North Point Ministries—one of the largest and most influential churches in the country. While at North Point, John led the development of leader training and operational infrastructure accessed by more than 1500 volunteer leaders locally and thousands more globally. Prior to co-founding Exceptional Leaders, John was the president of a private capital group specializing in real estate development, residential construction, and cellular tower development.

John holds professional coaching credentials with New Ventures West and a Bachelors Degree in Biblical Studies with a minor in Greek from Lipscomb University. He currently lives in a suburb of Atlanta, Georgia, with his amazing wife and four children.

Connect with John Ott: Website | LinkedIn

Connect with Exceptional Leaders: Website

Topics Discussed in this Episode

00:00 Introduction and Welcome
01:26 Meet John Ott: Exceptional Leaders
01:51 John Ott’s Journey to Coaching
02:20 The Role of Curiosity in Career Development
03:46 Taking the Leap: Starting a Business
06:23 The Importance of Leadership
08:16 Defining Leadership Effectiveness
11:58 Inwardly Sound and Others Focused
14:15 The Identity Crisis of Business Leaders
15:45 The Isolation at the Top
18:23 Navigating Leadership Challenges
19:57 Recognizing the Need for Coaching
25:40 Self-Awareness and Leadership
27:49 Success Stories and Outcomes
30:37 Connecting with John Ott
31:15 Final Thoughts and Gratitude

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 business by sharing positive business 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.

The Multigenerational Housing Solution, with Kay Sibetta, AARP Georgia, and Will Johnston, MicroLife Institute

March 31, 2025 by John Ray

North Fulton Studio

The Multigenerational Housing Solution, with Kay Sibetta, AARP Georgia, and Will Johnston, MicroLife Institute

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The Multigenerational Housing Solution, with Kay Sibetta, AARP Georgia, and Will Johnston, MicroLife Institute (North Fulton Voices, Episode 10)

In this episode of North Fulton Voices, hosts Jack Murphy and Nancy Diamond discuss the local workforce housing crisis with guests Will Johnston, Executive Director of the MicroLife Institute, and Kay Sibetta, Associate State Director of Community Outreach for AARP Georgia. They cover the specific issues facing seniors, declining school enrollments, and the importance of building diverse, multigenerational housing options. The conversation highlights the need for community engagement, innovative housing solutions like ADUs and micro-neighborhoods, and the urgency of updating zoning laws to create more inclusive, affordable housing. The hosts and guests emphasize the importance of education, architectural design, and outreach in fostering community acceptance of these housing changes.

North Fulton Voices is presented by the North Fulton Improvement Network. The show series is proudly sponsored by John Ray Co. and North Fulton Business Radio, LLC.

Kay Sibetta, Associate State Director, Community Outreach, AARP Georgia

AARP Georgia is a state-level chapter of the national AARP organization, focusing on issues affecting individuals aged 50 and older within the state. It provides various resources and support, including caregiver assistance, legal services, and financial aid programs. AARP Georgia advocates for policies benefiting seniors and offers community grants to enhance livability, such as improving public spaces and transportation. Additionally, it promotes initiatives like the Affordable Connectivity Program to ensure access to affordable high-speed internet for eligible residents. Local chapters across Georgia engage in community service, cultural events, and advocacy efforts tailored to regional needs.

Kay’s LinkedIn | AARP Georgia: Website | Facebook | Instagram

Will Johnston, Executive Director, MicroLife Institute

The MicroLife Institute is a nonprofit organization based in Atlanta, Georgia, dedicated to transforming housing options through innovative, sustainable, and affordable solutions. Specializing in “pocket neighborhoods,” the Institute develops small-scale, community-focused housing projects that reduce environmental impact and promote inclusivity. It combines education, advocacy, and research to address zoning reforms and expand housing choices, particularly for underserved populations. Notable projects include the award-winning Cottages on Vaughan and the Hope Springs Townhomes, which provide affordable housing while fostering community connections. Through workshops, consulting, and outreach events, the MicroLife Institute empowers individuals and municipalities to embrace micro-living principles for stronger, more equitable communities.

Will’s LinkedIn | MicroLife Institute: Website | LinkedIn | Facebook | Instagram

Topics Discussed in this Episode

00:00 Introduction to North Fulton Voices
00:40 Discussing Senior Housing Issues
01:05 Jack’s Data Insights
03:08 Meet the Guests: William Johnston and Kay Sibetta
03:23 Kay Sibetta on AARP’s Role and Initiatives
06:41 William Johnston on MicroLife Institute
08:42 Challenges and Solutions in Housing
11:42 Community Engagement and Zoning
15:42 AARP’s Advocacy and Outreach
21:13 The Importance of Education and Communication
27:50 Comprehensive Planning and Zoning Challenges
28:48 Affordable Housing and NIMBYism
29:42 Design and Architecture in Housing
31:14 Walkability and Livable Communities
33:53 Micro Housing and Pocket Neighborhoods
35:01 Municipalities and Workforce Housing
43:54 Community Engagement and Future Planning

North Fulton Improvement Network

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

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

Jack Murphy

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

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

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

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

Nancy Diamond

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

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

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

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

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

About North Fulton Voices

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

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

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

John Ray is a podcast show host and producer and owns North Fulton Business Radio, LLC, the North Fulton (Georgia) affiliate of Business RadioX®.

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

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

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

Website | LinkedIn

Relationship Building with “The Bow Tie Banker,” Michael Miller, Embassy National Bank

March 27, 2025 by John Ray

North Fulton Business Radio

Relationship Building with "The Bow Tie Banker," Michael Miller, Embassy National Bank

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Relationship Building with “The Bow Tie Banker,” Michael Miller, Embassy National Bank (North Fulton Business Radio, Episode 857)

Host John Ray interviews Michael Miller, also known as “The Bow Tie Banker,” from Embassy National Bank, in this episode of North Fulton Business Radio. Michael shares his journey into banking, driven by a desire to help underserved communities. He discusses the importance of building relationships with clients, particularly small business owners, before they need critical banking services. Michael emphasizes the value of personal rapport and understanding clients’ needs deeply, which is often challenging for larger banks. The episode also covers practical advice for small business owners on how to establish excellent banking relationships and maintain solid financial health. Michael illustrates his points with success stories and practical examples, showcasing why smaller, community-centric banks can often provide more personalized and effective service.

Michael Miller, “The Bow Tie Banker,” Embassy National Bank

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

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

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

Embassy National Bank

Embassy National Bank, located in Lawrenceville, GA, is a community-focused financial institution providing expert business and personal banking services to the local area. With a strong emphasis on small business lending, commercial lending, residential construction lending, and 1-4 family investment lending, the bank is dedicated to helping growing businesses find the capital they need to expand and thrive.

The bank is committed to providing the best customer service and products tailored to meet customer needs. As a business-friendly bank, Embassy National Bank’s leaders reside within the communities they aim to grow, ensuring a deep understanding of local financial needs. The institution focuses on positioning businesses for success through comprehensive cash management solutions and various lending options, including SBA loans.

With decades of combined experience, the team at Embassy National Bank offers expert financial backing and advice to both individuals and organizations. They work diligently to help customers reach their business and personal financial goals, leveraging their extensive knowledge and personalized approach.

Website | LinkedIn | Facebook

Topics Discussed in this Episode

00:00 Introduction and Welcome
00:27 Meet Michael Miller: The Bow Tie Banker
01:41 Michael’s Journey into Banking
05:43 Building Strong Banking Relationships
09:06 The Importance of Local Banks
10:39 The Bow Tie Banker Brand
12:07 Community Banking vs. Mega Banks
15:38 Advice for Small Business Owners
23:52 Success Stories and Client Relationships
25:00 Conclusion and Contact Information

About North Fulton Business Radio and host John Ray

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 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

2025 GNFCC BOLD Businesswoman on the Rise: Katrina Singletary, City of Roswell

March 26, 2025 by John Ray

A GNFCC 2025 BOLD Award Winner: Katrina Singletary, City of Roswell, on the GNFCC 400 Insider podcast

North Fulton Studio

2025 GNFCC BOLD Businesswoman on the Rise: Katrina Singletary, City of Roswell

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2025 GNFCC BOLD Businesswoman on the Rise: Katrina Singletary, City of Roswell (GNFCC 400 Insider, Episode 105)

In this episode of the GNFCC 400 Insider, Kali Boatright, President and CEO of the Greater North Fulton Chamber of Commerce, interviews Katrina Singletary, the Government and Community Affairs Manager for the City of Roswell. Katrina was recently named the 2025 GNFCC BOLD Businesswoman on the Rise. In the interview, they delve into Katrina’s role and her passion for local communities. The discussion highlights significant initiatives in Roswell, including the PBS Aerospace recruitment, the introduction of a USL soccer franchise, and other development projects. Katrina shares insights on the transformative strategy under Mayor Kurt Wilson’s administration and upcoming ventures like advanced air mobility and AI technology. This episode showcases the collaborative and innovative spirit driving Roswell’s growth and modernization.

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®.

Katrina Singletary, City of Roswell

Katrina Singletary is currently serving as the Government and Community Affairs Manager for the City of Roswell, Georgia, a position she assumed in August 2024. In this role, she acts as the primary relationship manager between the city and federal, state, and local elected officials and government agencies. Her responsibilities include developing the city’s annual legislative agenda, managing communications and government relations, coordinating community engagement, and advocating for the city’s interests. Katrina is known for her work in building strategic partnerships and fostering stronger communities.

Katrina’s career in public service spans several years, with previous positions including roles in the Mayor’s Office and as an Executive Assistant to the City Council. She holds a Master’s degree in Public Policy from Georgia State University’s Andrew Young School of Policy Studies. She also has a Bachelor of Applied Science in Counseling Psychology from The Baptist College of Florida.

Topics Discussed in this Episode

00:00 Introduction to the GNFCC 400 Insider
00:33 Meet Katrina Singletary
01:04 Katrina’s Role in Roswell
02:26 Bold Women’s Award Recognition
04:43 Mayor Wilson’s Vision for Roswell
07:09 PBS Aerospace Coming to Roswell
14:11 Impact on Roswell’s Future
15:08 Vision for Roswell’s Future
15:56 Exciting Soccer Developments
17:14 Economic Impact and Community Benefits
19:40 Hill Street Project and Public Safety
23:27 AI and Technological Innovations
26:00 Roswell’s Leadership and Collaboration
27:32 Conclusion and Contact Information

About GNFCC and The GNFCC 400 Insider

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.

The Power of Persistence and Value in Sales, with Sales Coach Jacob Hicks

March 26, 2025 by John Ray

North Fulton Studio

The Power of Persistence and Value in Sales, with Sales Coach Jacob Hicks

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The Power of Persistence and Value in Sales, with Sales Coach Jacob Hicks (The Price and Value Journey, Episode 126)

In this episode of The Price and Value Journey, host John Ray sits down with Jacob Hicks, a dynamic sales coach, consultant, and host of the Purpose Driven Progress podcast. Jacob shares his journey from a shy retail worker to a skilled sales professional, emphasizing the importance of mindset, gratitude, and empathy in sales. The discussion delves into effective follow-up strategies, overcoming mindset blocks, and the essential role of daily affirmations and gratitude in maintaining a positive sales mindset. Jacob also introduces his “Delete and Dominate” strategy to handle negative client interactions and underscores the value of retail lessons for professional service providers. This episode is packed with actionable insights for anyone looking to enhance their sales approach and mindset.

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

Jacob Hicks

Jacob Hicks is an exceptional Elite Success Coach dedicated to helping individuals build a satisfied and full life. As a certified Elite Coach, Jacob collaborates with leaders, professionals, and entrepreneurs, guiding them towards clarity and success in both their personal and professional lives. His coaching philosophy centers on empowering his “Coaching Allies” to discover optimal strategies for business and personal fulfillment.

Jacob’s approach involves creating goals, developing actionable plans, and executing those plans effectively. Through weekly one-hour calls and supplementary exercises, Jacob provides ongoing support and accountability to his clients. His passion for coaching is evident in his commitment to helping individuals gain clarity and construct actionable plans to realize their aspirations.

With a background in sales since 2014, Jacob has consistently achieved remarkable results across various industries. His track record includes surpassing goals, setting records, receiving awards, and effectively leading teams. This experience informs his coaching practice, allowing him to offer valuable insights into sales strategies and mindset. Jacob’s expertise in sales and coaching has been recognized in various contexts, making him a trusted advisor for those seeking to enhance their performance.

Beyond his professional pursuits, Jacob is committed to continuous personal growth. He is an avid reader, a self-taught piano player, and an investor. His passion for learning extends to travel, having explored extensively throughout the United States and the world. Jacob’s travels have also led him to engage in mission work in Liberia, demonstrating his commitment to making a positive impact beyond his coaching practice. This blend of professional expertise and personal growth makes Jacob Hicks a standout figure in the field of success coaching.

Website | LinkedIn | Instagram | Facebook

Topics Discussed in this Episode

00:00 Introduction and an Overview of Jacob Hicks
01:21 Jacob Hicks’ Sales Journey
03:24 The Importance of Follow-Up in Sales
06:24 Providing Value in Follow-Ups
17:27 Lessons from Retail for Professional Services
20:46 Mindset in Sales
22:21 Morning Affirmations and Gratitude
23:11 Experimenting with Affirmations
24:21 The Power of Gratitude
26:15 Common Mindset Blocks in Sales
28:38 Empathy vs. Sympathy in Sales
29:46 “Delete and Dominate” Strategy
36:54 Effective Follow-Up Strategies
40:40 When to Hire a Sales Coach
42:20 Conclusion and Contact Information

About The Price and Value Journey Podcast

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 you offer, helping clients achieve the outcomes they desire, and trying to do all that at pricing that reflects the value you 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 North Fulton Business Radio, LLC, an affiliate 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 podcast show host, strategist, and the owner of North Fulton Business Radio, LLC, an affiliate of Business RadioX®. John and his team work with B2B professionals to create and conduct their 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 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 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

Enhancing Image and Personal Branding with Arlene Stearns, ImageUp System

March 25, 2025 by John Ray

North Fulton Business Radio

Enhancing Image and Personal Branding with Arlene Stearns, ImageUp System

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Enhancing Image and Personal Branding with Arlene Stearns, ImageUp System (North Fulton Business Radio, Episode 856)

In this episode of North Fulton Business Radio, host John Ray welcomes Arlene Stearns, a personal branding image consultant and founder of ImageUp System. Arlene shares her expertise on the importance of image and personal branding, especially for women. She discusses the connection between appearance and confidence, productivity, and success. Arlene delves into her career trajectory, passion for helping people, and her creative background. The conversation covers various aspects of personal branding, including the impact of fashion versus style, the importance of self-confidence, and how to handle transitions in wardrobe needs post-pandemic. Arlene also shares success stories of transforming clients’ images and enhancing their professional presence. Listeners are provided insights on how to recognize the need for a makeover and the step-by-step process Arlene uses to create transformational changes for her clients.

Arlene Stearns, ImageUp System

Arlene Stearns is a renowned image consultant and executive presence coach, best known for creating the ImageUp System. With over 20 years of experience in the fashion industry, she has developed a profound understanding of how appearance impacts success. Her journey began with a deep-rooted connection to fashion, thanks to her family’s involvement in the New York City fashion scene. Arlene’s expertise spans owning a clothing line and working as a stylist in exclusive boutiques, where she won four national awards for her mastery of the “mix and match” concept. This background has equipped her with the skills to help clients create a distinctive personal style that boosts confidence and revenue.

As the founder of the ImageUp System, Arlene guides successful women entrepreneurs, business owners, and corporate executives to enhance their appearance and presence, enabling them to capitalize on lucrative opportunities. Her system is designed to transform clients’ inner and outer personas, ensuring that their inner brilliance radiates outwardly. Arlene is a sought-after speaker and has been featured at prominent events and publications, including the Women’s Professional Development Network and Best Self Magazine. Her mission is to empower individuals to look and feel like leaders, thereby increasing their earning potential and professional influence. Beyond her professional life, Arlene enjoys painting, traveling, and maintaining a balanced lifestyle through meditation and exercise.

Website | LinkedIn | Instagram | Facebook

Topics Discussed in this Episode

00:00 Introduction and Welcome
01:41 Meet Arlene Stearns: Personal Branding Expert
03:49 The Importance of Appearance
06:31 Fashion vs. Style
10:43 Comfort and Style Post-Pandemic
14:24 Self-Confidence and Productivity
18:44 Feeling Like a Million Dollars
19:03 Empowering Clients Through Makeovers
20:16 Immediate Impact of Makeovers
21:45 Breaking Out of Style Ruts
23:47 Identifying the Need for a Style Consultant
25:50 The Ultimate Style Success Session
29:06 Transformative Success Stories
30:58 Addressing Fears and Embracing Change
32:48 Working with Male Clients
35:03 How to Connect with Arlene Stearns
35:53 Closing Remarks and Gratitude

About North Fulton Business Radio and host John Ray

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

Healthcare with Heart, with Shameka Allen, Good Samaritan Health Centers of Gwinnett

March 20, 2025 by John Ray

Good2Give Podcast

Healthcare with Heart, with Shameka Allen, Good Samaritan Health Centers of Gwinnett

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Healthcare with Heart, with Shameka Allen, Good Samaritan Health Centers of Gwinnett (Good2Give Podcast, Episode 15)

In this episode of the Good2Give Podcast, hosts Maria Walden and DePriest Waddy from the Community Foundation for Northeast Georgia interview Shameka Allen, the CEO of Good Samaritan Health Centers in Gwinnett. They discuss the history and operations of the clinics, which provide affordable healthcare services to uninsured and low-income individuals. The conversation explores the diverse demographics served, the unique cost model, and the various services offered, including medical, dental, and prescription assistance. They also highlight the clinic’s commitment to holistic, compassionate care, supported by their faith-based values, and their innovative workforce development initiative, Access Academy. Additionally, the episode covers the clinics’ adaptation to treat long COVID, the impact of immigration policies on patient care, and the upcoming spring fundraising campaign.

To learn more and to donate to Good Samaritan Health Centers of Gwinnett, follow this link.

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.

Shameka Allen, Executive Director, Good Samaritan Health Centers of Gwinnett

Shameka Allen is the Chief Executive Officer of Good Samaritan Health Centers of Gwinnett, a role she assumed in January 2024. With a strong background in healthcare management and non-profit organizations, Shameka brings extensive experience to her position.

Prior to becoming CEO, Shameka served as the Associate Director of Good Samaritan Health Centers of Gwinnett from September 2021 to December 2023. In this role, she collaborated with the Executive Director to manage staff and volunteers, maintain industry standards, and evaluate opportunities to improve operations.

Shameka’s career history includes positions such as Manager of Practice Management at Beltone and Regional Operations Director at DaVita Kidney Care, where she was responsible for multiple dialysis facilities and home dialysis units.

Shameka holds a Master of Business Administration (MBA) from the University of Georgia’s Terry College of Business, a Master of Arts in International Relations and Affairs from the University of Indianapolis, and a Bachelor of Arts in French Studies from Emory University. Her diverse educational background complements her professional experience in healthcare management and non-profit leadership.

Good Samaritan Health Centers of Gwinnett

Good Samaritan Health Centers of Gwinnett is a non-profit medical clinic located in Norcross, Georgia, dedicated to providing low-cost healthcare services to uninsured and underinsured residents of Gwinnett County and surrounding areas. Founded in 2004, the organization offers a comprehensive range of services, including primary care, general dentistry, pediatric care, counseling, health education classes, and pharmacy assistance. This broad spectrum of services is designed to address the diverse health needs of the community, ensuring that individuals have access to quality care regardless of their financial situation.

The mission of Good Samaritan Health Center is rooted in demonstrating the love of Christ by providing quality, affordable, and accessible health and dental services to the poor and uninsured. The organization aims to reduce health disparities by offering consistent and reliable healthcare options. Additionally, it seeks to decrease the non-emergent use of emergency rooms by the uninsured, which can be both costly and inefficient. By providing a stable source of primary care, Good Samaritan Health Center helps to manage chronic conditions effectively and prevent unnecessary hospital visits.

Good Samaritan Health Center operates with a staff of about 30 and relies heavily on over 400 annual volunteers, including medical professionals and students. The organization sees approximately 2,500 patients per month, with appointment fees ranging from $25 to $75. In recent years, the center has provided an estimated $5.2 million worth of healthcare services through thousands of patient encounters. It has received several accolades, including GuideStar’s Platinum status and the Gwinnett Chamber of Commerce’s Healthcare Excellence Award, recognizing its commitment to quality care and community service.

Website | LinkedIn |Instagram | Facebook

Topics Discussed in this Episode

00:00 Introduction and Host Welcome
00:38 Meet Shameka Allen, CEO of Good Samaritan Health
01:52 History and Mission of Good Samaritan Health Centers
03:55 Demographics and Services Offered
07:27 Innovative Healthcare Models and Payment Structures
12:36 Dental Services and Community Impact
16:51 Funding and Community Partnerships
18:14 Workforce Development and Access Academy
26:04 Faith-Based Approach and Patient Care
27:07 Challenges and Innovations in Healthcare
31:34 Conclusion and Call to Action

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

The Value of Operational Efficiency, with Dennis Jackson, WorX Solutions

March 19, 2025 by John Ray

North Fulton Studio

The Value of Operational Efficiency, with Dennis Jackson, WorX Solutions

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The Value of Operational Efficiency, with Dennis Jackson, WorX Solutions (The Price and Value Journey, Episode 125)

In this episode of The Price and Value Journey, host John Ray interviews Dennis Jackson, founder of WorX Solutions. Dennis shares his experience transitioning from the corporate world to starting his own business, focused on helping small and mid-sized companies optimize operations and workflows. They delve into the importance of understanding client needs, the shift from hourly to value-based pricing, and tips for entrepreneurs such as networking, the significance of having an accountant, and setting up strong partnerships. Dennis also discusses his podcast, WFH with Two Guys, which explores remote work and business ownership. Throughout the conversation, Dennis emphasizes the value of building relationships, the challenges of operational inefficiency, and the critical mindset adjustments necessary for successful entrepreneurship.

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

Dennis Jackson, Founder, WorX Solutions

Dennis Jackson is the Managing Partner and founder of WorX Solutions, an IT services and consulting company based in Hendersonville, Tennessee. He established the company in 2011 with a focus on bridging operational gaps for small to midsize businesses.

WorX Solutions offers solutions such as workflow automation, data management, CRM creation, and custom software development. They strive to help clients save time and money by streamlining tasks, improving communication, and providing real-time data and project tracking.

Prior to founding WorX Solutions, Dennis’s career spanned gained experience in utility management and financial modeling. He holds a Master’s degree in Engineering Management from Cornell University and a Bachelor’s degree in Civil Engineering from Lafayette College.

Dennis is also the co-host, along with Benny Carreon, of the WFH with Two Guys podcast.

LinkedIn | Company Website

Topics Discussed in this Episode

00:00 Introduction and Guest Overview
02:05 Dennis Jackson’s Background and WorX Solutions
04:33 Challenges and Solutions for Small Businesses
11:00 The Importance of Networking and Relationships
20:13 Starting a Business: Lessons and Advice
23:28 Navigating Entrepreneurship and Networking Strategies
28:43 Introduction to Operational Efficiency
28:52 Communicating Value in Business
29:49 Impact of Efficiency on Costs and ROI
33:15 Client Success Stories
36:02 Building Strong Client Relationships
39:50 Transitioning to Value-Based Pricing
42:20 Challenges and Strategies in Pricing
45:15 Podcast Journey and Insights
51:02 Lessons Learned from Podcasting
54:17 Conclusion and Contact Information