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Unlocking Sales Success with Sean Shannon, Strategic Growth Design

March 3, 2025 by John Ray

Unlocking Sales Success with Sean Shannon, Strategic Growth Design, on North Fulton Business Radio with host John Ray
North Fulton Business Radio
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Unlocking Sales Success with Sean Shannon, Strategic Growth Design, on North Fulton Business Radio with host John Ray

Unlocking Sales Success with Sean Shannon, Strategic Growth Design (North Fulton Business Radio, Episode 847)

In this episode of North Fulton Business Radio, host John Ray interviews Sean Shannon, a fractional chief sales officer and sales expert from Strategic Growth Design. Sean shares his experience and strategies on effectively managing sales teams, establishing documented sales processes, and aligning sales and marketing efforts. He emphasizes the importance of having individual sales quotas, understanding client mixes, and creating sustainable processes. Sean also discusses the complexities of sales compensation plans, the significance of courage and emotional resilience in sales roles, and the intricacies involved in complex sales. With practical anecdotes and actionable insights, Sean provides valuable guidance for business owners looking to enhance their revenue and sales performance.

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.

Sean Shannon, Strategic Growth Design

Sean Shannon loves sales. For the past three decades, he has been leading market-making sales teams in one of the most challenging industries, local broadcasting.

Sean’s teams worked with hundreds of small and medium-sized businesses to create winning sales and marketing campaigns that generated award-winning results. Sean has worked in sales and operations leadership at iHeart, Audacy and Cumulus Media, rising through the ranks as an innovator and thought leader.

As a Senior Vice President of Sales, Sean blazed a trail in training sales leaders and salespeople on the value of diagnosing sales and marketing problems before offering solutions. This approach led to marketing leading returns on advertising investment for the clients. As a Market President, Sean built market-leading brands like Q99.7 and 99x in Atlanta by focusing on the people behind those brands, the culture that underpinned them, and a structure that was responsive to the changing tides in a challenged industry.

Strategic Growth Design logoSean is now bringing those three decades of experience in building winning sales teams and winning brands to small and medium-sized businesses in Atlanta. Not simply through consulting, but through a roll your sleeves and up do it approach guided by the wisdom he’s earned in both his successes and, more importantly, in his less than optimal learning experiences (Sean doesn’t believe there’s such a thing as failure if there is learning that is applied the next time around).

Website | LinkedIn | Substack

Topics Discussed in this Interview

00:00 Introduction and Welcome to North Fulton Business Radio
01:52 Meet Sean Shannon: Sales Expert
02:57 Sean’s Sales Journey
05:54 Challenges in Sales Management
08:30 Ideal Client Profile and Value Proposition
19:49 Complex Sales and Salesperson Traits
24:30 Compensation Plans and Sales Success
29:59 Sean’s Success Stories
33:28 Conclusion and Contact Information

Renasant Bank supports North Fulton Business Radio

Renasant BankRenasant Bank has humble roots, starting in 1904 as a $100,000 bank in a Lee County, Mississippi, bakery. Since then, Renasant has become one of the Southeast’s strongest financial institutions, with over $17 billion in assets and more than 180 banking, lending, wealth management, and financial services offices throughout the region. All of Renasant’s success stems from each banker’s commitment to investing in their communities as a way to better understand the people they serve. At Renasant Bank, they understand you because they work and live alongside you every day.

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

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, North Fulton Business Radio, and Owner, Ray Business Advisors
John Ray, North Fulton Business Radio, and Owner, Ray Business Advisors

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.

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, The Generosity MindsetJohn 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.

Tagged With: fractional sales, Fractional Sales Leadership, John Ray, North Fulton Business Radio, outsourced fractional sales, outsourced sales leadership, Sales, Sales Leadership, Sean Shannon, Strategic Growth Design

CIDs and Workforce Housing, with Ann Hanlon, Perimeter Community Improvement Districts, and Kristin Winzeler, True North 400

February 28, 2025 by John Ray

CIDs and Workforce Housing, with Ann Hanlon, Perimeter Community Improvement Districts, and Kristin Winzeler, True North 400, on North Fulton Voices podcast, CIDs
North Fulton Studio
CIDs and Workforce Housing, with Ann Hanlon, Perimeter Community Improvement Districts, and Kristin Winzeler, True North 400
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CIDs and Workforce Housing, with Ann Hanlon, Perimeter Community Improvement Districts, and Kristin Winzeler, True North 400 (North Fulton Voices, Episode 9)

In this episode of North Fulton Voices, hosts Jack Murphy and Kathy Swan of the North Fulton Improvement Network discuss the workforce housing crisis in North Fulton with guests Ann Hanlon, Executive Director of Perimeter CIDs, and Kristen Winsler, Deputy Director of True North 400. The discussion covers community improvement districts (CIDs), their roles in infrastructure development, and the importance of forward-thinking in addressing housing and transportation challenges. They also touch upon the collaboration between CIDs, MARTA, and local governments, as well as ongoing projects aimed at enhancing livability and addressing the missing middle housing gap. The episode emphasizes the need for diverse housing options to support local workforce needs, including teachers, first responders, and hospital staff.

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.

Ann Hanlon, Perimeter Community Improvement Districts

Ann Hanlon, Perimeter Community Improvement Districts, CIDs
Ann Hanlon, Perimeter Community Improvement Districts

As Executive Director for the Perimeter Community Improvement Districts (PCIDs), Ann Hanlon is in charge of the organization’s daily operations, as well as its financial investments in transportation infrastructure.

The CIDs have an annual operating budget of over $10 million. Previously, Ann was the Executive Director of the North Fulton CID for 13 years, beginning when it was a start-up. Prior to entering the CID space, Ann served as a Senior Program Specialist at the Atlanta Regional Commission. She began her career in the private sector, as a Research and Development Analyst with Press Ganey & Associates, a healthcare consulting firm in South Bend, Indiana.

A native of South Georgia, Ann received a Bachelor of Arts degree with a double major in Government and Computer Science from the University of Notre Dame, and a Masters of Public Administration degree in Management and Finance from Georgia State University.

Ann was honored as the “Woman of the Year” by the Women’s Transportation Seminar Atlanta Chapter in November 2016. In April 2015 and 2017, Governor Nathan Deal appointed Ann to the Board of Directors for the Georgia Regional Transportation Authority where she serves on the Projects and Planning committees. She was re-appointed to the GRTA Board by Governor Brian Kemp in 2022. Ann was named one of Georgia Trend Magazine’s “500 Most Influential Georgians” in 2023, one of the Atlanta Business Chronicle’s “Women Who Mean Business” in 2015 and as one of Georgia Trend Magazine’s “40 under 40” in 2018.

Ann is a graduate of the Regional Leadership Institute of the Atlanta Regional Commission (2010) and Leadership North Fulton (2006).

In 2019, she served as the first female Chairman of the Board of Directors for the Council for Quality Growth, a trade association of the real estate development industry in Atlanta. Additionally, Ann has served as a volunteer with the Women’s’ Transportation Seminar, Atlanta Chapter and currently serves on the Board of Directors for the Greater North Fulton Chamber of Commerce, the Sandy Springs Chamber of Commerce, and the Georgia Chamber of Commerce.

In 2020, Ann was appointed by CEO Michael Thurmond to the DeKalb County COVID-19 task force, and continued to serve in that capacity as a representative of large business interests in Perimeter during the pandemic.

In March 2023, Hanlon was appointed to the Decide DeKalb Development Authority Board by the DeKalb County Commission. A devoted champion of public schools, Ann was selected to serve on the Fulton Education Foundation Board of Directors by Superintendent Mike Looney in September 2022, where she serves as an Officer and Secretary.

Personally, Ann is a volunteer with the National Charity League, a volunteer coach for the golf team at Peachtree Middle School, the President of the Foundation at Chesnut Elementary School, a member of All Saints Catholic Church and a sustainer with the Junior League of Atlanta.

She lives in Dunwoody with her husband Michael and their two daughters.

LinkedIn

Perimeter Community Improvement Districts

Perimeter CIDsThe Perimeter Community Improvement Districts (PCIDs) are self-taxing districts that use additional property tax on commercial space to accelerate transportation and infrastructure projects in the Central Perimeter area of metro Atlanta. Established over two decades ago, the PCIDs cover parts of Brookhaven, Dunwoody, and Sandy Springs, bridging government, development, and business communities to fuel one of Georgia’s most influential business districts. The PCIDs have invested millions into infrastructure, programs, and projects, focusing on improving access, creating a sense of place, and transforming the once car-dependent suburban area into a livable, walkable community that attracts major corporations and thousands of new jobs.

Website | LinkedIn | Instagram | Facebook

Kristin Winzeler, True North 400

Kristin Winzeler, True North 400, CIDs
Kristin Winzeler, True North 400

Kristin Winzeler is the Deputy Executive Director for True North 400, formerly known as the North Fulton Community Improvement District (CID). Ms. Winzeler manages the daily operations, projects, and consulting team of True North 400. She led the rebranding effort and launch of True North 400 in 2023. She has been with the organization since starting as a Project Assistant in 2012.

Prior to joining True North 400, Ms. Winzeler received a dual master’s degree in public administration and business administration from Kennesaw State University. Her graduate work has been published in Public Performance & Management Review. She has also served as an intern for the Association County Commissioners of Georgia and the Arthritis Foundation Southeast Region, both in Atlanta.

Ms. Winzeler is a graduate of several leadership programs, including the Atlanta Regional Commission’s Regional Leadership Institute and the Greater North Fulton Chamber of Commerce’s Leadership North Fulton. She has been a member of Women Transportation Seminar (WTS) since 2013 and served as President during the organization’s 40th anniversary in 2021-2022.

Ms. Winzeler also serves as a board member of the Greater North Fulton Chamber of Commerce and was awarded the Chamber’s JenLan Rising Star Award in 2018. She has been named one of Engineering Georgia Magazine’s Most Influential Women in Transportation from 2020-2024. In her spare time, Ms. Winzeler volunteers on the PTA Board for her children’s school and coaches her daughter’s little league softball team. She lives in Woodstock, GA with her husband and three daughters.

LinkedIn

True North 400

True North 400, formerly known as the North Fulton Community Improvement District (NFCID), is a self-taxing district established in 2003 by business leaders committed to enhancing the North Fulton area of metro Atlanta. Encompassing parts of Alpharetta, Milton, and Roswell along the Georgia 400 corridor, True North 400 focuses on improving economic viability, transportation efficiency, and overall community livability. The district has invested approximately $28 million to bring about $170 million in investments as of 2022, significantly impacting property values and attracting major corporations. True North 400 plays a crucial role in fostering economic growth, with the area hosting nearly half of North Fulton County’s retail and office space and a quarter of its jobs, despite occupying only 4% of the total land area. The organization collaborates with local governments and businesses to accelerate infrastructure projects, enhance walkability, and create a vibrant, sustainable community along the Georgia 400 corridor.

Website | LinkedIn | Instagram | Facebook

Topics Discussed in this Episode

00:00 Introduction to North Fulton Voices
00:38 Jack’s Metaphor and Workforce Housing
02:27 Understanding Community Improvement Districts (CIDs)
06:20 Current CID Projects and Initiatives
08:22 Challenges and Opportunities in Housing and Transportation
16:29 Collaboration with MARTA and Future Developments
26:56 The Importance of Schools and Housing Diversity
33:14 Closing Remarks and Contact Information

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.

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

Jack Murphy

Jack Murphy
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.

LinkedIn

Kathy Swahn

Kathy Swahn, President Emeritus, The Drake House
Kathy Swahn

Kathy has resided in the North Fulton area for almost 45 years. She has watched the community evolve from what was “unincorporated Fulton County” to a six-city bustling suburban community. Her history has been marked by a strong emphasis on children: she raised two daughters as a stay-at-home mother, held leadership positions in school PTAs and Girl Scouts, participated in the National Charity League, led the North Fulton Council of PTAs, and served as the chair of the Superintendent’s Advisory Council.

Kathy transitioned back to work by jumping into the non-profit world. She joined the team at North Fulton Community Charities, running their Holiday Program, becoming Development Director and successfully managing the $3 million capital campaign for their Elkins Road location. Along the way, she also served on the DFACS Board and chaired the board of the Fulton County Continuum of Care for four years.

After having the opportunity to join in the Greater North Fulton Chamber of Commerce Leadership Program, Kathy was surrounded with a dynamic group of folks who worked to create The Drake House. Since 2004, she served as board chair for the first four years, executive director for nine years, and is now retired. Over those years, The Drake House served over 500 single mothers with over 1,000 children and grew the assets of the organization to over $4 million.

Kathy continues to serve The Drake House on the Advocacy Committee, along with her work for NFIN.

She spends much of her time traveling to the Washington, D.C., area, where her children and grandchildren reside.

LinkedIn

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 North Fulton Business Radio.

Sponsor for North Fulton Voices: John Ray, John Ray Co.

The North Fulton Voices show series is proudly sponsored by John Ray Co. and North Fulton Business Radio.

John Ray
John Ray

John Ray is a podcast strategist, producer, and show host, and the owner of North Fulton Business Radio, LLC. North Fulton Business Radio is an affiliate of Business RadioX®.

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.

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.

Website | LinkedIn

Tagged With: Affordable housing, Ann Hanlon, Jack Murphy, John Ray, Kathy Swahn, Kristin Winzeler, North Fulton Community Improvement District, North Fulton Improvement Network, North Fulton Voices, Perimeter Community Improvement Districts, True North 400, workforce housing

Turning Dreams into Reality: One Carlos, Martial Artist, and Grant Rosado, Filmmaker, Share Their Journey

February 26, 2025 by John Ray

Hello, Self . . .
Hello, Self . . .
Turning Dreams into Reality: One Carlos, Martial Artist, and Grant Rosado, Filmmaker, Share Their Journey
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One Carlos

Turning Dreams into Reality: One Carlos, Martial Artist, and Grant Rosado, Filmmaker, Share Their Journey (Hello, Self… Episode 62)

In this episode of Hello Self, host Patricia Leonard interviewed two inspiring young filmmakers, One Carlos (1C) and Grant Rosado. One Carlos, a Filipino immigrant with a background in martial arts and kinesiology, and Grant Rosado, a Cuban Bosnian filmmaker raised across North America, shared their journeys in the film industry.

From creating a movie during the pandemic to working on their latest project, 8RX, they discussed the challenges they overcame, the creative processes they followed, and the importance of perseverance and honesty in pursuing one’s dreams.

Their conversation with Patricia offered insightful advice for aspiring filmmakers and dreamers alike.

Hello, Self… is presented by Patricia Leonard & Associates  and produced by Arlia Hoffman in association with the North Fulton studio of Business RadioX®.

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

One Carlos, Martial Artist and Filmmaker

One Carlos, Martial Artist and Filmmaker

One Carlos, also known as “1C,” is a Filipino immigrant, martial artist, stunt performer, and aspiring filmmaker. Trained in Filipino martial arts from a young age, he transitioned into fight choreography and stunt work after moving to the United States three years ago. A published author at just 13 years old, One Carlos continues to expand his expertise by studying kinesiology and health sciences to enhance his understanding of movement and performance. His dedication to blending physical artistry with cinematic storytelling has led him to collaborate on independent film projects, including his upcoming action film, 8RX, where he showcases his talent in fight choreography and performance.

Facebook | Instagram

Grant Rosado, Filmmaker

Grant Rosado, Filmmaker

Grant Rosado is a Cuban-Bosnian filmmaker and storyteller with a background in film production and marketing from Emerson College. Raised across North America, his dynamic experiences have shaped his approach to filmmaking. As one half of the creative duo The Rowe Brothers, Grant has led companies, charities, and multiple independent film projects.

His first feature film, Toys the Night, was picked up by Vertical Entertainment and featured on Tubi, earning him industry recognition. His follow-up film, Puffin Iron, premiered at the Miami Film Festival and secured distribution. Now based in Los Angeles, Grant is directing and producing 8RX, an action film that highlights innovative fight choreography and compelling storytelling.

Facebook | Instagram

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, 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

Tagged With: 8RX, filmmakers, Grant Rosado, Hello Self Moments, Hello Self Podcast, Hello Self..., One Carlos, Patricia Leonard, Patricia Leonard & Associates

Consulting in the Digital Age, with Prof. Joe O’Mahoney

February 26, 2025 by John Ray

Consulting in the Digital Age, with Prof. Joe O'Mahoney, on The Price and Value Journey podcast with host John Ray
North Fulton Studio
Consulting in the Digital Age, with Prof. Joe O'Mahoney
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Consulting in the Digital Age, with Prof. Joe O'Mahoney, on The Price and Value Journey podcast with host John Ray

Consulting in the Digital Age, with Prof. Joe O’Mahoney (The Price and Value Journey, Episode 123)

In this episode of The Price and Value Journey, host John Ray welcomes Professor Joe O’Mahoney, a leading authority on the consulting industry. They discuss significant shifts in the consulting field, including industry growth, client sophistication, and the impact of AI on consulting processes and pricing. Joe highlights the importance of managed knowledge and systems in consulting firms and how firms can leverage AI to improve efficiency. They also touch on issues like value-based pricing, the role of luck in business success, and how consultants can build reliable, scalable models for long-term growth. Joe shares insights from his latest book, Growth: Building a Successful Consultancy in the Digital Age, making a compelling case for why modern consulting firms must embrace both digital transformation and personalized client relationships.

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

Prof. Joe O’Mahoney

Joe is a leading authority on the consulting industry and a consultant to boutiques and small consulting firms. His research on the profession has won several prestigious awards and publications and resulted in leadership of high-profile government-funded research into the profession. Joe’s textbook on management consulting, Management Consultancy (published by Oxford University Press) was the best-selling book of its kind in Europe and his academic research has been published in the top international journals. His most recent, evidence-based book on growing consulting firms in the digital age, Growth: Building a Successful Consultancy in the Digital Age (published by Routledge), is the “go-to” growth text for consulting CEOs and managing partners all over the world.

Joe also practices what he preaches: he has been a corporate consultant, an internal consultant and a solo consultant. He has spent fifteen years providing advisory services to small consulting firms on growth and, in 2007, sold his own company, StayMobile Technology Ltd. In addition to his private practice, he is the founder of Repair Café Wales CIC and Consulting Mastered Ltd.

Joe has taught and coached over 2,000 executives and MBA students about management consultancy and helped hundreds of students gain places at leading consulting firms. Joe’s work has been recognized by awards from the British Academy of Management, the Centre for Consulting Excellence, the ESRC and several university prizes.

Joe studied history at Oxford University and obtained his PhD and MSc at Warwick University. He lives within Cardiff with his wife, Hannah, and two sons.

Website | LinkedIn

Topics Discussed in this Episode

00:00 Welcome and Introduction to Prof. Joe O’Mahoney
01:36 Big Shifts in Consulting
04:08 Myths and Outdated Beliefs in Consulting
08:03 Scaling and Growth Challenges
14:23 Managed Knowledge and Intellectual Property
19:46 Artificial Intelligence in Consulting
23:35 Implementing AI for Long-Term Success
25:25 Strategizing with AI: Efficiency vs. Personalization
26:45 Leveraging Off-the-Shelf Solutions for Process Improvement
28:20 AI’s Role in Consulting: Current Capabilities and Future Potential
30:12 The Impact of AI on Consulting Pricing Models
36:19 Building Value and Trust in Client Relationships
44:50 The Role of Luck in Consulting Success
48:34 Conclusion and Contact Information

About The Price and Value Journey

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

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

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

John Ray, Host of The Price and Value Journey

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

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

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

In his other business, John is a podcast show host and producer and owns the North Fulton (Georgia) affiliate of Business RadioX®. John and his team work with B2B professionals to create and conduct their own podcast using The Generosity Mindset™ Method: building and deepening relationships in a non-salesy way that translates into revenue for their business.

John is also the host of North Fulton Business Radio. With over 840 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

The Generosity Mindset, by John RayJohn 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

Tagged With: AI, consulting, consulting industry, intellectual property, Joe O'Mahoney, John Ray, pricing, process improvement, professional services, The Price and Value Journey, value pricing

Enhancing Talent Acquisition, with Brooke Wheeler, Restoration Talent Solutions

February 25, 2025 by John Ray

Enhancing Talent Acquisition, with Brooke Wheeler, Restoration Talent Solutions, on North Fulton Business Radio with host John Ray
North Fulton Business Radio
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Enhancing Talent Acquisition, with Brooke Wheeler, Restoration Talent Solutions, on North Fulton Business Radio with host John Ray

Enhancing Talent Acquisition, with Brooke Wheeler, Restoration Talent Solutions (North Fulton Business Radio, Episode 846)

In this episode of North Fulton Business Radio, host John Ray interviews Brooke Wheeler, founder of Restoration Talent Solutions. Brooke discusses her journey from corporate talent acquisition to starting her own fractional recruitment company, emphasizing the importance of authentic culture, effective use of recruitment tools, and networking for both employers and job seekers. She shares insights on the benefits of fractional talent acquisition for small and medium-sized businesses, strategies for improving recruitment processes, and tips for job seekers navigating a challenging job market. Additionally, Brooke highlights her company’s success in helping businesses build internal recruiting functions and improve hiring efficiency.

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

Brooke Wheeler, Talent Restoration Solutions

With over 25 years in corporate recruiting, Brooke has had the privilege of recruiting and advising across diverse industries like fintech, data analytics, and engineering. Her passion lies in crafting and refining talent acquisition strategies that not only attract top talent but also cultivate a positive organizational culture. She’s successfully placed thousands of high-caliber candidates in roles that fuel innovation and drive business success.

Now she’s built her company, Restoration Talent Solutions, to do the same for growing businesses that want to create a recruiting function in order to attract and hire the best talent for their team, without the overhead of a full-time talent acquisition executive. Fractional talent acquisition means she provides expert recruitment services on a part-time, flexible basis.

If you want to start making smarter hires, Brooke is here to help.

Website | LinkedIn | Instagram

Topics Discussed in this Episode

00:00 Introduction and Welcome to North Fulton Business Radio
00:29 Guest Introduction: Brooke Wheeler
02:04 Brooke’s Background and Career Journey
06:08 The Value of Fractional Talent Acquisition
09:19 Importance of Company Culture
12:04 Challenges in Talent Acquisition
15:02 Advice for Job Seekers
19:58 Ideal Clients and Success Stories
26:07 Conclusion and Contact Information
26:56 Host’s Final Remarks

Renasant Bank supports North Fulton Business Radio

Renasant BankRenasant Bank has humble roots, starting in 1904 as a $100,000 bank in a Lee County, Mississippi, bakery. Since then, Renasant has become one of the Southeast’s strongest financial institutions, with over $17 billion in assets and more than 180 banking, lending, wealth management, and financial services offices throughout the region. All of Renasant’s success stems from each banker’s commitment to investing in their communities as a way to better understand the people they serve. At Renasant Bank, they understand you because they work and live alongside you every day.

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

About North Fulton Business Radio and host John Ray

With over 800 shows and having featured over 1,200 guests, North Fulton Business Radio is the longest-running podcast in the North Fulton area, covering business in our community like no one else. We are the undisputed “Voice of Business” in North Fulton!

The show 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, Business RadioX - North Fulton, and Owner, Ray Business Advisors
John Ray, Business RadioX – North Fulton, and Owner, Ray Business Advisors

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

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

John Ray, The Generosity MindsetJohn 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.

Tagged With: Brooke Wheeler, Career counseling, Culture, employer branding, job seekers, John Ray, North Fulton Business Radio, Recruiting, Restoration Talent Solutions, talent acquisition

MARTA’s Transformation and Future Growth in North Fulton, with MARTA’s Freda Hardage and Jennifer Larosa

February 25, 2025 by John Ray

MARTA's Transformation and Future Growth in North Fulton, with Freda Hardage and Jennifer Larosa, MARTA, on the GNFCC 400 Insider podcast
North Fulton Studio
MARTA's Transformation and Future Growth in North Fulton, with MARTA's Freda Hardage and Jennifer Larosa
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MARTA's Transformation and Future Growth in North Fulton, with Freda Hardage and Jennifer Larosa, MARTA, on the GNFCC 400 Insider podcast

MARTA’s Transformation and Future Growth in North Fulton, with MARTA’s Freda Hardage and Jennifer Larosa (GNFCC 400 Insider, Episode 104)

In this episode of the GNFCC 400 Insider, host Kali Boatright, President and CEO of the Greater North Fulton Chamber of Commerce, discusses the significant developments in the North Fulton transit system with Freda Hardage and Jennifer Larosa from MARTA. They delve into the new fleet of CQ 400 train cars, upcoming improvements in rail stations, and the introduction of Bus Rapid Transit routes. They also highlight the importance of transit investments for economic growth and how MARTA is preparing for the expected population increase. The conversation covers partnerships with GDOT and legislative initiatives aimed at enhancing MARTA’s service and safety features.

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®.

Freda Hardage, Director, MARTA

Freda Hardage, MARTA
Freda Hardage

Freda Hardage is a prominent figure in Atlanta’s healthcare and public transportation sectors. She currently serves as the Chair of the MARTA (Metropolitan Atlanta Rapid Transit Authority) Board of Directors, a position she was elected to in December 2018. Hardage has been a member of the MARTA board since 2013, when she was appointed by the Fulton County Board of Commissioners.

With over 30 years of experience in healthcare, Hardage has had a distinguished career at Northside Hospital. She held the position of Director of Foundation Services for the Alpharetta Medical Campus at Northside Hospital. Her background as a registered nurse, with a BSN from the University of Tennessee, Knoxville, has informed her multidisciplinary approach to healthcare systems.

Hardage’s community involvement extends beyond her roles at MARTA and Northside Hospital. She has been recognized for her contributions to the Johns Creek community, where she resides. In 2023, she was honored as one of the Greater North Fulton Chamber of Commerce (GNFCC) Women of Excellence Award winners for her service projects and community leadership.

Her professional network includes positions such as Director/Board Member at the Greater North Fulton Chamber of Commerce, showcasing her commitment to local business development. Hardage’s leadership at MARTA comes at a crucial time for the region’s transit development, as she has expressed enthusiasm for working with current partners and potential new jurisdictions to expand MARTA’s services.

Hardage’s career exemplifies a dedication to public service, healthcare advancement, and community development in the greater Atlanta area. Her diverse experience in both the public and private sectors positions her as a key figure in shaping the future of Atlanta’s transportation and healthcare landscapes.

LinkedIn

Jennifer Larosa, Sr. Director of Government Affairs, MARTA

Jennifer Larosa, MARTA
Jennifer Larosa

Jennifer Larosa is a seasoned professional in government affairs and public policy, currently serving as the Senior Director of Government & Community Affairs at the Metropolitan Atlanta Rapid Transit Authority (MARTA). She joined MARTA in February 2024, bringing with her a wealth of experience in transit and legislative affairs.

Prior to her current role, Larosa worked as a lobbyist for MARTA while employed at Ohio River South and McGuire Woods Consulting. Her career is marked by significant achievements in transit and funding legislative successes. Notably, she played a key role in creating Georgia’s first dedicated funding source for transit capital projects and establishing the Transit Trust Fund.

Larosa’s educational background includes degrees from Georgia State University and the University of Georgia, following her undergraduate studies in her native Louisiana. Her expertise extends beyond her work at MARTA; she has also served as the Vice President for State & Local Government at Ohio River South and has been a board member for Advance Atlanta.

In her current position at MARTA, Larosa is responsible for maintaining a visible presence at the State Capitol, fostering positive relationships with political and community stakeholders, and working to secure necessary funding for the transit authority. Her role is crucial in advancing MARTA’s interests at local, state, and federal levels, particularly given the authority’s reliance on federal and state funding support for system improvements and expansion.

LinkedIn

MARTA

MARTA logoThe Metropolitan Atlanta Rapid Transit Authority (MARTA) is the primary public transportation provider in the Atlanta metropolitan area. Established in 1971, MARTA operates a comprehensive network of bus and rail services, serving Fulton, Clayton, and DeKalb counties, with limited bus services extending into Cobb County. The system includes 48 miles of rail track with 38 stations and over 110 bus routes, making it the eighth-largest rapid transit system in the United States by ridership.

MARTA’s mission is to advocate for and provide safe, multimodal transit services that enhance prosperity, connectivity, and equity across the region. It plays a crucial role in economic development through Transit-Oriented Development (TOD) initiatives, fostering walkable communities around its stations. MARTA is governed by a 15-member board of directors and employs over 4,500 people, relying on fares and sales tax for its operating revenues. Despite being a major transit system, MARTA is unique in not receiving state funding.

In addition to its core services, MARTA offers paratransit services for disabled customers and is expanding its fleet with environmentally friendly buses. The organization continues to evolve, with ongoing projects like the MARTA Rapid Summerhill bus rapid transit line, set to launch in late 2025, and Bus Rapid Transit routes coming to North Fulton.

Website | LinkedIn | Facebook | Instagram | YouTube

Topics Discussed in this Episode

00:00 Introduction to the GNFCC 400 Insider
00:37 Meet the Guests: Freda Hardage and Jennifer Larosa
02:13 Exciting News: MARTA’s New Train Fleet
06:12 Enhancing MARTA Stations
07:59 Future Growth and Economic Impact
11:18 Legislative Efforts and BRT Initiatives
18:07 MARTA’s Plans for North Fulton’s 400 Corridor
20:27 The Importance of MARTA to the Community
25:00 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.

Greater North Fulton Chamber of Commerce, GNFCCAs 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.

Tagged With: bus rapid transit, Freda Hardage, GNFCC, Greater North Fulton Chamber of Commerce, Jennifer Larosa, Kali Boatright, MARTA, North Fulton, transit in North Fulton, Transportation

Leadership and Innovation in the Roswell Fire Department, with Chief Joe Pennino

February 25, 2025 by John Ray

Leadership and Innovation in the Roswell Fire Department, with Chief Joe Pennino, on North Fulton Business Radio with host John Ray
North Fulton Business Radio
Leadership and Innovation in the Roswell Fire Department, with Chief Joe Pennino
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Leadership and Innovation in the Roswell Fire Department, with Chief Joe Pennino, on North Fulton Business Radio with host John Ray

Leadership and Innovation in the Roswell Fire Department, with Chief Joe Pennino (North Fulton Business Radio, Episode 845)

In this episode of North Fulton Business Radio, host John Ray speaks with Chief Joe Pennino of the Roswell Fire Department. Chief Pennino shares insights on leadership lessons that can be applied in various business sectors, discussing his career journey and the significant transitions at the Roswell Fire Department. The conversation highlights the shift from part-time to full-time staffing, the innovative measures implemented for firefighter health and safety, and the importance of vision and communication in leadership. Additionally, the episode explores how Chief Pennino fosters a culture of transparency and trust while addressing the mental and emotional well-being of firefighters. The discussion also touches on the broader challenges and innovations within public safety and government organizations.

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

Dr. Joe Pennino, DPA, EFO, CFO, MIFireE, PMP

Dr. Joe Pennino, Fire Chief, City of Roswell, Georgia
Dr. Joe Pennino, Fire Chief, City of Roswell, Georgia

Dr. Joe Pennino is a seasoned public safety leader, educator, consultant, and leadership coach with over two decades of experience in fire service, emergency management, and public administration. Since 2021, he has served as the Fire Chief and Emergency Manager for the City of Roswell, GA, leading a department of more than 150 personnel and managing a $17 million budget to enhance public safety and community resilience.

Under Dr. Pennino’s leadership, the Roswell Fire Department was recently honored with the 2025 Senator Paul S. Sarbanes Fire Service Safety Leadership Award for its groundbreaking research on the effects of shift schedules and adjusted start times on firefighter performance and well-being. This study, conducted in collaboration with researchers, aims to improve firefighter health by addressing sleep quality, reducing fatigue, and enhancing long-term wellness. The award, presented at the 35th Annual National Fire and Emergency Services Dinner in Washington, DC, recognizes departments that make significant contributions to firefighter safety and health.

Prior to his tenure in Roswell, Dr. Pennino was Deputy Fire Chief in Largo, Florida, where he oversaw the department’s five operational divisions and played a pivotal role in modernizing emergency medical services, data-driven decision-making, and intergovernmental coordination. His diverse career includes experience as a hazmat technician, SWAT medic, flight medic, and emergency management coordinator, providing him with a broad perspective on crisis response and strategic leadership.

Beyond his operational leadership, Dr. Pennino is an educator, consultant, and leadership coach. He teaches in both the Fire Administration bachelor’s and Doctor of Public Administration programs at Liberty University, mentoring future public safety and government leaders. He also provides leadership coaching for professionals seeking to enhance their strategic thinking, team development, and personal effectiveness.

Dr. Pennino holds a Doctorate in Public Administration from Valdosta State University and a Master’s in Public Policy from Liberty University. He is a Project Management Professional (PMP) certified by the Project Management Institute and holds professional designations including Executive Fire Officer (EFO), Chief Fire Officer (CFO), and Member of the Institution of Fire Engineers (MIFireE), reflecting his commitment to lifelong learning and excellence in leadership.

A strong advocate for data-driven governance, organizational efficiency, and leadership development, Dr. Pennino continues to shape the future of public safety and professional leadership through innovation, strategic planning, and coaching.

LinkedIn

Roswell Fire Department, Roswell, Georgia

The Roswell Fire Department, located in Roswell, Georgia, is a progressive, ISO Class 2 all-hazards agency dedicated to providing comprehensive public safety services. The department operates out of seven fire stations, a separate fire headquarters, and the Roswell-Alpharetta Public Safety Training Center (RAPSTC). The department’s apparatus includes seven fire engines, two ladder trucks, a heavy/technical rescue truck, two rescue ambulances, and one Battalion Chief/Incident Command vehicle, all of which are Advanced Life Support (ALS) capable and staffed with paramedics.

Roswell Fire DepartmentThe Roswell Fire Department offers a wide range of services, including fire suppression, emergency medical services (EMS), technical rescue, and public education. The technical rescue services encompass swift water rescue, motor vehicle and machinery rescue, rope rescue, trench rescue, collapse rescue, confined space rescue, and hazardous materials response. The department’s commitment to excellence is reflected in its ISO Class 2 rating, which places it among only 84 departments in Georgia and 2,200 departments nationwide with an ISO rating of 2 or better. This rating indicates that the department provides excellent fire protection services to the community.

The department has received several notable awards and recognitions for its outstanding performance. Recently, it was selected to receive the Senator Paul S. Sarbanes Fire Service Safety Leadership Award for its collaborative study on the effects of shift schedules and start times on firefighter health and performance. Additionally, two members of the department were honored with Life Saving Valor Awards by Governor Brian Kemp during Firefighter Recognition Day in 2024. These recognitions highlight the Roswell Fire Department’s dedication to innovative practices, firefighter safety, and excellence in fire protection services. The department continues to strive for improvement, maintaining its high standards while adapting to the evolving needs of the community it serves.

Website | Instagram | Facebook

Topics Discussed in this Episode

00:00 Introduction and Welcome to North Fulton Business Radio
00:40 Guest Introduction: Chief Joe Pennino
02:01 Chief Pennino’s Career and the Roswell Fire Department
07:03 Leadership Lessons from Chief Pennino
11:09 Managing Change in the Fire Department
20:43 Innovations in Firefighter Health and Safety
31:24 Public Perception and Community Engagement
36:53 Closing Remarks and Resources

Renasant Bank supports North Fulton Business Radio

Renasant BankRenasant Bank has humble roots, starting in 1904 as a $100,000 bank in a Lee County, Mississippi, bakery. Since then, Renasant has become one of the Southeast’s strongest financial institutions, with over $17 billion in assets and more than 180 banking, lending, wealth management, and financial services offices throughout the region. All of Renasant’s success stems from each banker’s commitment to investing in their communities as a way to better understand the people they serve. At Renasant Bank, they understand you because they work and live alongside you every day.

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

About North Fulton Business Radio and host John Ray

With over 800 shows and having featured over 1,200 guests, North Fulton Business Radio is the longest-running podcast in the North Fulton area, covering business in our community like no one else. We are the undisputed “Voice of Business” in North Fulton!

The show 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, Business RadioX - North Fulton, and Owner, Ray Business Advisors
John Ray, Business RadioX – North Fulton, and Owner, Ray Business Advisors

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

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

John Ray, The Generosity MindsetJohn 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.

Tagged With: City of Roswell, City of Roswell Fire Department, Dr. Joe Pennino, fire chief, firefighters, Innovation, Leadership, Leadership Lessons, roswell fire chief, Roswell Fire Department

Groveway Community Group: Unsung Heroes of North Fulton, with Gail Bohannon McCoy

February 24, 2025 by John Ray

Groveway Community Group: Unsung Heroes of North Fulton, with Gail Bohannon McCoy, on North Fulton Business Radio with host John Ray
North Fulton Business Radio
Groveway Community Group: Unsung Heroes of North Fulton, with Gail Bohannon McCoy
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Groveway Community Group: Unsung Heroes of North Fulton, with Gail Bohannon McCoy, on North Fulton Business Radio with host John Ray

Groveway Community Group: Unsung Heroes of North Fulton, with Gail Bohannon McCoy (North Fulton Business Radio, Episode 844)

In this episode of North Fulton Business Radio, host John Ray interviews Gail Bohannon McCoy of Groveway Community Group, an iconic organization serving the North Fulton community since 1943. Gail discusses the rich history of the organization, its mission to help everyone from youth to seniors, and the critical services they provide, including clothing drives, financial assistance, and support for the elderly. Gail also shares touching success stories and highlights the ongoing needs for volunteers, donations, and specific items. This insightful discussion sheds light on the compassionate and impactful work done by Groveway Community Group over the years.

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

Gail Bohannon McCoy, Groveway Community Group

Gail Bohannon McCoy is the Executive Director of Groveway Community Group.

Groveway Community Group (GCG), Roswell’s oldest non-profit organization, continues its mission of providing assistance to the elderly and youth in the community. Founded in 1943, GCG has evolved into a vital community resource, focusing on strengthening and unifying the local area.

Groveway Community GroupGCG has a rich history marked by resilience and determination. In 1961, their community center was torched by the Ku Klux Klan, a tragic event that could have halted their progress. However, the community came together to rebuild, demonstrating their strength and commitment to their mission. This historical context underscores the significance of GCG’s role in fostering unity and addressing disparities within the community. Over the years, they have continued to provide essential services and support, making them a cornerstone of community development in Roswell.

Currently, GCG is actively involved in several initiatives and events. They are a major contributor to the Roswell Roots Festival, Georgia’s largest Black History celebration held throughout the month of February. This festival features various cultural events, exhibits, and music performances, promoting education and cultural awareness. GCG is also hosting a family outing day in Groveway Community Park as part of the festival.

In addition to their cultural contributions, GCG continues to provide essential services to the community. They organize community clothing giveaways, where they distribute clothing to people in need. The organization also offers programs such as youth scholarships, support for nursing homes, and provision of school supplies for children. GCG remains committed to addressing unmet needs within the Roswell community, encouraging citizen participation in community affairs, and promoting good citizenship.

Website | LinkedIn | Instagram | Facebook

Topics Discussed in this Episode

00:00 Introduction and Welcome to North Fulton Business Radio
00:28 Meet Gail Bohannon McCoy
02:04 Groveway Community Group’s Mission and History
09:03 Challenges and Advocacy for the Community
12:33 Supporting Seniors in Roswell
18:27 Engaging the Youth
20:19 How You Can Help
24:02 Conclusion and Final Thoughts

Renasant Bank supports North Fulton Business Radio

Renasant BankRenasant Bank has humble roots, starting in 1904 as a $100,000 bank in a Lee County, Mississippi, bakery. Since then, Renasant has become one of the Southeast’s strongest financial institutions, with over $17 billion in assets and more than 180 banking, lending, wealth management, and financial services offices throughout the region. All of Renasant’s success stems from each banker’s commitment to investing in their communities as a way to better understand the people they serve. At Renasant Bank, they understand you because they work and live alongside you every day.

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

About North Fulton Business Radio and host John Ray

With over 800 shows and having featured over 1,200 guests, North Fulton Business Radio is the longest-running podcast in the North Fulton area, covering business in our community like no one else. We are the undisputed “Voice of Business” in North Fulton!

The show 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, Business RadioX - North Fulton, and Owner, Ray Business Advisors
John Ray, Business RadioX – North Fulton, and Owner, Ray Business Advisors

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

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

John Ray, The Generosity MindsetJohn 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.

Tagged With: African American Community, community advocacy, community service, Gail Bohannon McCoy, Groveway Community Group, John Ray, North Fulton Business Radio, Roswell, seniors

Navigating Hidden Risks in Professional Services, with Mike Blake, High Score Strategies

February 19, 2025 by John Ray

Navigating Hidden Risks in Professional Services, with Mike Blake, High Score Strategies, on The Price and Value Journey podcast with host John Ray
North Fulton Studio
Navigating Hidden Risks in Professional Services, with Mike Blake, High Score Strategies
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Navigating Hidden Risks in Professional Services, with Mike Blake, High Score Strategies, on The Price and Value Journey podcast with host John Ray

Navigating Hidden Risks in Professional Services, with Mike Blake, High Score Strategies (The Price and Value Journey, Episode 122)

In this episode of The Price and Value Journey, host John Ray delves into risk management for solo and small professional service providers, with guest Mike Blake, CEO of High Score Strategies. Mike, a seasoned valuation expert with over 20 years of experience and more than 400 completed valuations, discusses the unseen risks faced by small firms, including client selection, revenue management, and execution pitfalls. The conversation explores the implications of client concentration, the importance of strategic pricing, the impact of mindset on risk assessment, and practical tips for managing client relationships. Mike offers insights on maintaining business autonomy, handling imposter syndrome, and the value of transparent and strategic pricing. This episode is packed with strategies for mitigating business risks and optimizing decision-making in professional services.

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

Mike Blake, High Score Strategies

Mike Blake, High Score Strategies
Mike Blake, High Score Strategies

Mike is the CEO of High Score Strategies (HSS), a consultancy devoted to guiding clients to understand the value of their businesses and intangible assets for acquisition, investing, capital raising, disposition, and succession planning.

Investors and owners rely on Mike’s “information over validation” advisory approach, understanding that the questions he asks unearth hard but crucial answers that support their next transformative step or business stage.

Mike’s background spans 20+ years in valuation and 8 years in venture capital and investment banking. Before founding HSS, he served as Managing Partner with Brady Ware Arpeggio, Director of Valuation Services with Aprio (formerly Habif, Arogeti, & Wynne), and Managing Director with Adams Capital.

He is also a Special Lecturer at Georgia Tech, where he teaches graduate students about the valuation of emerging technologies and intellectual property, with a focus on Monte Carlo simulations and real options theory.

Mike founded and ran Startup Lounge, a nonprofit in Atlanta that helped connect hundreds of investors and startups over a decade. He currently serves on the board of the BVIUK (Business Valuation Institute UK).

He has coached six teams to victory in business plan competitions, leading to over $300,000 in cash prizes and nearly $2 million in services—including an entrepreneur who secured funding through ABC’s Shark Tank.

A highly engaging and deeply knowledgeable speaker, Mike has delivered 100+ presentations on a range of topics, including startup valuation, business appraisal, risk management, intellectual property, and emerging tech valuation.

He holds an MBA from Georgetown University and a BA from Franklin & Marshall.

Mike is multilingual, speaking fluently in English, Ukrainian, Russian, and French, and is conversant in Portuguese, German, and Spanish.

He currently lives with his family in Caldas Da Rainha, Portugal, about an hour outside of Lisbon.

Website | Mike’s LinkedIn | Firm LinkedIn | YouTube | Facebook

Topics Discussed in this Episode

00:00 Introduction to Risk Management
00:18 Meet Mike Blake: Valuation and Risk Expert
01:14 The Hidden Risks in Professional Services
03:41 Revenue Challenges for Small Firms
04:17 Execution and Malpractice Risks
05:16 Concentration Risk and Client Dependency
16:43 Client Due Diligence and Ownership
21:21 Naming Your Business and Succession Planning
25:22 Mindsets in Risk Management
26:53 Embracing Mistakes for Success
27:10 Mindsets: Scarcity, Fear, and Growth
27:34 The Impact of Poverty on Decision-Making
29:24 Professional Services and Poor Decisions
30:33 Managing Fear and Risk in Business
32:30 Imposter Syndrome and Pricing Challenges
38:19 The Language of Pricing
47:32 Radical Approaches to Pricing
51:03 Conclusion and Contact Information

About The Price and Value Journey

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

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

The show is hosted and produced by John Ray and the North Fulton 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 and producer and owns the North Fulton (Georgia) affiliate of Business RadioX®. John and his team work with B2B professionals to create and conduct their 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

The Generosity Mindset, by John RayJohn 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

Tagged With: client communication, client risk, High Score Strategies, imposter syndrome, Improved Decision Making, John Ray, Mike Blake, pricing, professional services, Risk Management, The Price and Value Journey

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