John Ray, Author at Business RadioX ® Page

Manuja Ranasinghe of 50 Acres Tea: Wellness in a Cup

November 3, 2025 by John Ray

North Fulton Business Radio

Manuja Ranasinghe of 50 Acres Tea: Wellness in a Cup

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Manuja Ranasinghe of 50 Acres Tea: Wellness in a Cup (North Fulton Business Radio, Episode 909)

On this episode of North Fulton Business Radio, host John Ray welcomes Manuja Ranasinghe, founder of 50 Acres Tea, a premium tea brand based in Metro Atlanta. Manuja recounts his journey from Sri Lanka, which included a lengthy corporate career in banking and the airline industry, and how a 2020 buyout paved the way for the launch of a purpose-driven tea company.

Drawing on childhood time around his grandparents’ tea estate and Sri Lankan factories, he explains why 50 Acres centers on a single-region, high-elevation black tea that he refined over two and a half years to suit American palates seeking a lighter, calming beverage. He also unpacks his blends, including mangosteen, cardamom, pineapple, and cinnamon, and explains why he calls tea “wellness in a cup.” The conversation also covers daily tea habits, caffeine comparisons with coffee, and why 50 Acres sells directly to consumers online.

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 is recorded inside Renasant Bank in Alpharetta.

Key Takeaways from This Episode

How a single-region, high-elevation Sri Lankan black tea produces a light, smooth cup that appeals to American tea drinkers
Why 50 Acres layers functional flavors like mangosteen, cardamom, pineapple, and cinnamon over full-leaf black tea
Tea as a calming, evening-friendly beverage with lower caffeine than coffee
The family story behind the 50 Acres name and how it shapes the brand

Topics Discussed in this Episode

0:00 Introduction and Welcome
00:37 Meet Manuja Ranasinghe of 50 Acres Tea
00:53 Renasant Bank: Your Personal Banking Solution
03:04 Manuja’s Journey from Sri Lanka to the USA
04:29 The Birth of 50 Acres Tea
06:31 Understanding the American Tea Market
09:26 The Health Benefits of Tea
12:24 Exploring Premium Tea Blends
16:05 Starting a Tea Company in Georgia
16:41 The Growing Popularity of Tea
17:21 The Story Behind the Brand
18:51 Solving Problems with Premium Tea
21:15 Unique Selling Points and Market Strategy
23:43 Core Values and Community Outreach
27:01 Customer Reviews and Product Quality
28:51 How to Purchase and Experience 50 Acres Tea
30:31 Final Thoughts and Additional Information

Manuja Ranasinghe, Founder, 50 Acres Tea

Manuja Ranasinghe, 50 Acres Tea

Manuja Ranasinghe is a Sri Lankan-born entrepreneur, storyteller, and values-driven leader based in the United States, best known as the founder of 50 Acres Tea. Drawing from his experiences at Delta Air Lines and as a Distinguished Toastmaster, Manuja champions self-empowerment and authenticity in business and life. His philosophy is deeply rooted in his Buddhist heritage, emphasizing moral conduct, concentration, and wisdom, which infuses both his leadership style and his approach to wellness-focused entrepreneurship.

Founded in 2023 and headquartered in Marietta, Georgia, 50 Acres sources premium Ceylon tea blends crafted to support well-being and refreshment. The company’s product line features teas rich in natural antioxidants, soothing herbs, spices, and fruits, all designed to promote healing, focus, and serene clarity without the jitters associated with conventional caffeinated beverages. 50 Acres reflects Manuja’s mission to create products that ignite both personal wellness and a deeper appreciation for extraordinary taste.

This combination of cross-cultural experience, values-first leadership, and a passion for quality tea makes Manuja and 50 Acres uniquely positioned in the modern wellness and beverage landscape—making them ideal for listeners seeking both inspiration and practical tips for living authentically and well.

Website | Instagram | YouTube | LinkedIn

Renasant Bank supports North Fulton Business Radio

Renasant Bank has humble roots, starting in 1904 as a $100,000 bank in a Lee County, Mississippi, bakery. Since then, Renasant has become one of the Southeast’s strongest financial institutions, with over $17 billion in assets and more than 180 banking, lending, wealth management, and financial services offices throughout the region. All of Renasant’s success stems from each 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.

Beyond Computer Solutions supports North Fulton Business Radio

Whether you’re a law firm, medical practice, or manufacturer, there’s one headline you don’t want to make: “Local Business Pays Thousands in Ransom After Cyberattack.” That’s where Beyond Computer Solutions comes in. They help organizations like yours stay out of the news and in business with managed IT and cybersecurity services designed for industries where compliance and reputation matter most.

Whether they serve as your complete IT department or simply support your internal team, they are well-versed in HIPAA, secure document access, written security policies, and other essential aspects that ensure your safety and well-being. Best of all, it starts with a complimentary security assessment.

Website | LinkedIn | Facebook | YouTube

About North Fulton Business Radio and host John Ray

With over 900 episodes and having featured over 1,400 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 markets, communities, and professions. There’s no discrimination based on company size, and there’s never any “pay to play.” North Fulton Business Radio supports and celebrates businesses by sharing positive stories that traditional media ignore. Some media lean left. Some media lean right. We lean business.

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

John Ray is the host of North Fulton Business Radio. John and the team at North Fulton Business Radio, LLC, an affiliate of Business RadioX®, produce the show, and it is recorded inside Renasant Bank in Alpharetta.

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

You can find the complete 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, bookkeepers, marketing professionals, and other professional services practitioners.

John is the author of the five-star rated book, The Generosity Mindset: A Journey to Business Success by Raising Your Confidence, Value, and Prices, praised by readers for its practical insights on raising confidence, value, and prices.

Artisan Design Studio, Walk Your Plans Atlanta Win GNFCC Honors

October 30, 2025 by John Ray

North Fulton Studio

Artisan Design Studio, Walk Your Plans Atlanta Win GNFCC Honors

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

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

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

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

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

Key Takeaways from This Episode

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

Topics Discussed in this Episode

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

Ryan Morgan Williams, Artisan Design Studio

**Ryan Williams, Artisan Design Studios**

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

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

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

Website | Instagram | LinkedIn

Mary Atchley, Walk Your Plans Atlanta

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

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

Website | Instagram | LinkedIn

About GNFCC and The GNFCC 400 Insider podcast

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

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

The Greater North Fulton Chamber of Commerce is a private, non-profit, member-driven organization comprised of over 1,400 business enterprises, civic organizations, educational institutions, and individuals. Their service area includes Alpharetta, Johns Creek, Milton, Mountain Park, Roswell, and Sandy Springs. GNFCC is the leading voice on economic development, business growth, and quality of life issues in North Fulton County.

As a five-star accredited chamber, GNFCC’s vision is to be the premier organization driving member and community success across the region, and they are dedicated to pursuing this vision based on the guiding principles of advocacy, inclusivity, and operational excellence.

GNFCC promotes the interests of their members by assuming a leadership role in making North Fulton an excellent place to work, live, play, and stay. They provide one voice for all local businesses to influence decision-makers, recommend legislation, and protect the valuable resources that make North Fulton a popular place to live.

For more information on GNFCC and its North Fulton County service area, follow this link or call (770) 993-8806. For more information on other GNFCC events, follow this link.

Dr. Bill Lampton on Communication and the Leap from Academia

October 29, 2025 by John Ray

North Fulton Studio

Dr. Bill Lampton on Communication and the Leap from Academia

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Dr. Bill Lampton on Communication and the Leap from Academia (The Price and Value Journey, Episode 151)

For expert-service pros, communication is not polish; it is how work gets won. In this conversation, Dr. Bill Lampton, “The Biz Communication Guy,” shares practical habits that help professionals be understood the first time, steer tough moments, and stop undercutting themselves on price. Bill traces his path from teaching at the University of Georgia to launching Championship Communication, including the six months of cold calls that went nowhere, the mentors and mastermind groups that changed his trajectory, and the lesson that too-low pricing tells buyers you are not ready yet.

Bill and John get specific. They talk about Stanislavsky’s “illusion of the first time” to keep repeat talks fresh, a short prep routine that settles nerves without turning you into a script reader, and why short video reps two or three times a week sharpen delivery while creating proof buyers can see. They cover how to host a podcast without making yourself the star, how to ask for referrals and public reviews right after a win, and why executives should treat board updates, deal discussions, and internal briefings as real presentations. John closes by underscoring a core point: clients do not buy credentials; they buy outcomes.

Listen if you want workable steps you can use this week and a clear path for turning reputation into revenue, whether you are already consulting or moving from campus to clients.

The Price and Value Journey is presented by John Ray and produced by North Fulton Business Radio, LLC, an affiliate of the Business RadioX® podcast network.

Key Takeaways You Can Use from This Episode

Price with self-respect. Too-low pricing signals “not ready” and slows deals.
Keep repeat talks fresh with the “illusion of the first time.” Relive the message, do not recite it.
Use a two-part prep: one page of message bullets, then one minute of breath work before you speak.
Post short videos two or three times a week. The reps improve delivery and give buyers visible proof.
Ask for referrals and public reviews immediately after a win, and make it easy for clients to post.
Treat board updates, sales calls, and deal conversations as presentations. Prepare and review them.
If you are leaving academia, stop leading with courses and credentials. Translate expertise into outcomes buyers want.

Topics Discussed in this Episode

00:00 Introduction and Welcome to Dr. Bill Lampton
01:38 The Power of Communication
03:31 Early Passion for Communication
06:11 Dramatic Roles and Lessons Learned
13:04 Transition from Academia to Business
15:48 Challenges and Strategies in Consulting
24:06 Importance of Pricing and Value
27:55 Advice for Academics Entering Consulting
31:07 The Importance of Referrals
32:49 Building a Compelling Internet Presence
34:59 The Power of Video Shorts
42:45 Hosting a Podcast: Why and How
44:28 Common Mistakes Podcast Hosts Make
46:19 Communication Skills for Executives
49:06 The Value of Professional Coaching
53:23 Final Thoughts and Contact Information

Dr. Bill Lampton, The Biz Communication Guy

Bill Lampton, Ph.D., known as The Biz Communication Guy, coaches executives to say what matters, listen for what is missing, and run meetings that lead to decisions. He earned his Ph.D. at Ohio University, taught speech communication at the University of Georgia, and then spent two decades in senior management in higher education and health care. In 1997 he started Championship Communication, where he speaks, coaches, and consults.

His clients include the University of Georgia Athletic Association, Georgia Power, Oceania Cruises, Ritz-Carlton Cancun, the Missouri Bar, Gillette, and Procter & Gamble. He works with CEOs, CFOs, COOs, and CIOs in business, healthcare, higher education, and nonprofits. He coaches the moments that decide outcomes: board updates, investor and media conversations, M&A discussions, sales presentations, and internal briefings.

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.

John is a podcast show host 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 900 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 Ray is the author of the five-star rated book The Generosity Mindset: A Journey to Business Success by Raising Your Confidence, Value, and Prices, praised by readers for its practical insights on raising 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 them. 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 outstanding 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.

Your combination of these elements is unique in your industry. There 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 | Email

Business RadioX®: LinkedIn | Twitter | Facebook | Instagram

Performance-Based Hiring with Marc Morris, The Talmadge Group

October 27, 2025 by John Ray

North Fulton Business Radio

Performance-Based Hiring with Marc Morris, The Talmadge Group

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Performance-Based Hiring with Marc Morris, The Talmadge Group (North Fulton Business Radio, Episode 908)

Marc Morris, the president of The Talmadge Group, joins host John Ray to discuss effective hiring practices. Marc explains how his firm has evolved from providing direct IT placements to offering consulting, project-based staffing, and leadership searches in executive, sales, and construction roles, effectively serving client needs since 1998. He breaks down Lou Adler’s performance-based hiring and the POWER approach, which includes building a performance profile, evaluating objectively, widening sourcing, managing interviewer bias, and treating recruiting as marketing. Marc also calls out the trap of “frictionless” click-to-apply systems that flood employers with the wrong candidates and mask quality.

Marc shares the single question he uses to engage passive candidates who are not on the market and why it works. He also discusses employer branding, culture, and the rationale behind the superiority of outstanding managers with measurable results over trendy perks. Case stories include scaling a startup from six to sixty and multi-year public-sector tech projects with the USDA and Defense Logistics Agency.

Key Takeaways from This Episode

Hire for outcomes, not resumes. Define a performance profile with the 6–12 month results you need, then assess candidates based on those outcomes.
Use the POWER approach: build the performance profile, set objective scorecards, widen sourcing, eliminate interviewer bias, and run recruiting like marketing.
Kill “frictionless apply.” High volume from one-click portals hides signals and wastes management time.
Treat recruiting as a campaign. Clarify the value proposition, target likely pools, and nurture passive talent.
Ask one incisive opener with passive candidates: invite them to describe the work they would leave for, then map that to your performance profile.
Upgrade interview quality. Fewer interviewers, structured questions tied to outcomes, and consistent scoring produce better decisions.
Brand and culture matter, but great managers with clear expectations beat office perks.
Measure success by time-to-productivity and retention against the performance profile, not just time-to-fill.

Topics Discussed in this Episode

00:00 Introduction and Welcome to North Fulton Business Radio
01:50 Guest Introduction: Marc Morris
01:59 The Talmadge Group: Services and Evolution
03:59 Hiring Challenges and Market Evolution
05:22 Technology’s Impact on Hiring
07:30 Performance-Based Hiring Explained
11:20 Employer Branding and Company Purpose
14:15 The Passive Candidate Strategy
23:24 Advice for Job Seekers
25:28 When to Call Marc Morris
26:53 Success Stories and Conclusion
31:12 Closing Remarks

Marc Morris, Founder and President, The Talmadge Group

Marc Morris, Founder and President of The Talmadge Group, a Service-Disabled Veteran-Owned staffing and consulting firm known for helping organizations build high-performing teams through Performance-Based Hiring. A U.S. Navy veteran and former Georgia state legislator, Marc brings decades of leadership, real-world recruiting experience, and a passion for helping people reach their full potential.

The Talmadge Group is a service-disabled veteran-owned staffing and consulting firm specializing in performance-based hiring and workforce solutions. Founded in 1998, the company partners with both commercial and government clients to deliver high-performing teams that drive measurable results.

Their approach goes beyond traditional recruiting—focusing on the alignment of people, process, and performance. By combining strategic talent acquisition with deep industry insight, they help organizations identify, attract, and retain professionals who make an immediate impact.

From technology and construction to executive leadership and government contracting, The Talmadge Group’s reputation is built on trust, precision, and a commitment to excellence in every placement.

Website | LinkedIn | Marc Morris LinkedIn | Facebook

Renasant Bank supports North Fulton Business Radio

Beyond Computer Solutions supports North Fulton Business Radio

Website | LinkedIn | Facebook | YouTube

About North Fulton Business Radio and host John Ray

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.

Meijah Lewis on Sugar Daddy Cookies, Jeff Brown on Cybersecurity

October 23, 2025 by John Ray

Family Business Radio

Meijah Lewis on Sugar Daddy Cookies, Jeff Brown on Cybersecurity

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Meijah Lewis on Sugar Daddy Cookies, Jeff Brown on Cybersecurity (Family Business Radio, Episode 69)

Family Business Radio host Anthony Chen welcomes Meijah “Mimi” Lewis of Sugar Daddy Cookies and Jeff Brown of TakTik Technologies. Mimi shares how a pandemic kitchen idea became a fast-growing cookie brand, from landing a 4,000-cookie Amazon order to expanding into vegan and gluten-free lines and preparing for a brick-and-mortar location. She explains what she would change about hiring and why family rhythms and faith shape every decision.

Jeff outlines a practical roadmap for small businesses to modernize IT, choose the right mix of cloud services, and harden security, covering AI readiness, backup and continuity basics, and simple controls that prevent costly mistakes.

Anthony closes with a reflection on legacy, urging owners to clarify why and the values they want to pass on to their kids and grandkids, noting that dollars alone rarely sustain a family enterprise across generations.

Family Business Radio is underwritten and brought to you by Anthony Chen with Lighthouse Financial Network. The show is produced by John Ray and the North Fulton affiliate of Business RadioX®.

Key Takeaways from This Episode

Product plus story creates traction: quality ingredients and a memorable brand experience open doors.
Large early wins signal reliability: delivering a 4,000-cookie corporate order builds credibility.
Serve dietary needs well: vegan and gluten-free options broaden the market without diluting the core.
Hire deliberately: document processes, set expectations, and protect culture as demand grows.
Most firms land on hybrid cloud: balancing cost, performance, and compliance rather than going all in on one model.
Do an AI readiness check: data quality, policies, validation steps, and change management come before tools.
Security basics matter: backups, encryption, MFA, phishing education, and tested continuity plans prevent downtime.
Trust but verify: confirm unusual payment or account-change requests through a separate channel.

Topics Discussed in this Episode

00:00 Introduction to Family Business Radio
00:46 Meet Mimi Lewis from Sugar Daddy Cookies
00:57 The Sweet Origin Story
01:44 From Hobby to Business
05:57 The Cookie Empire Takes Off
08:09 Balancing Family and Business
11:35 Future Plans and Challenges
15:20 Fan Feedback and Expansion
16:45 Homeschooling and Family Involvement
21:54 Reflecting on Growth and Team Building
23:37 Facing the Fears of Entrepreneurship
24:57 Staying Grounded in Faith
25:47 Legacy and Future Aspirations
26:45 Finding Sugar Daddy Cookies
27:24 Introducing Jeff Brown and TakTik Technologies
29:17 The Importance of Being Technology Agnostic
33:44 AI and Cybersecurity: Risks and Readiness
40:37 Ransomware and Business Continuity
50:11 Advice for Aspiring Entrepreneurs
53:30 Anthony’s Financial Take on Legacy

Meijah “Mimi” Lewis, Sugar Daddy Cookies

SSugar Daddy Cookies is a family-owned gourmet bakery located in Atlanta, Georgia, founded by the husband-and-wife duo of Will and Mimi Lewis during the COVID-19 pandemic in 2021. The business began when Will baked cookies for Mimi during her pregnancy, which sparked a venture that quickly grew into a beloved local brand known for its artisanal, handcrafted cookies made with premium ingredients and natural sweeteners such as honey and maple syrup.

Located in Buckhead at 3393 Peachtree Road NE, Sugar Daddy Cookies offers a full lineup of signature cookies, brownies, and lemonade—with playful cookie names like Mr. Clifford (chocolate chip), Mr. Larry (lemon and powdered sugar), Mr. Roosevelt (red velvet and white chocolate), and Mr. Benjamin (birthday cake). Their menu includes vegan, gluten-free, and dairy-free options, ensuring accessibility without compromising flavor.

The company emphasizes quality and community, crafting each batch from scratch and maintaining an active presence at Atlanta events and pop-up markets. Sugar Daddy Cookies continues to grow as a local favorite by combining nostalgic flavors with a personal, heartfelt small-business story, offering seasonal favorites like Georgia Peach Cobbler Cookies and custom party platters.

Website | Instagram | Meijah’s LinkedIn

Jeff Brown, TakTik Technologies

Jeff Brown is the founder and chief executive of TakTik Technologies LLC, a technology services firm based in Johns Creek, Georgia. He started the company to help small and midsize businesses run more efficiently, reduce IT costs, and strengthen their protection against cyber threats. With more than 35 years of experience in consulting, risk management, and information security, he works with clients to streamline operations and build strategies that improve both performance and profitability.

Before founding TakTik, Brown held senior consulting and leadership roles with organizations in the Atlanta area, including Blackstone and Cullen. Known for his practical approach and steady management style, he focuses on solving everyday business problems through sound technical planning and disciplined execution. He also volunteers with professional associations such as the Metro Atlanta Chapter of the Information Systems Security Association and InfraGard, where he supports cybersecurity awareness and community education.

Website | LinkedIn

Anthony Chen, Host of Family Business Radio

Family Business Radio is sponsored and brought to you by Anthony Chen with Lighthouse Financial Network. Securities and advisory services are offered through OSAIC, member FINRA/SIPC. RAA is separately owned, and other entities and/or marketing names, products, or services referenced here are independent of OSAIC. The main office address is 575 Broadhollow Rd., Melville, NY 11747. You can reach Anthony at 631-465-9090, ext. 5075, or by email at anthonychen@lfnllc.com.

Anthony Chen started his career in financial services with MetLife in Buffalo, NY, in 2008. Born and raised in Elmhurst, Queens, he considers himself a full-blooded New Yorker while now enjoying his Atlanta, GA, home. Specializing in family businesses and their owners, Anthony works to protect what is most important to them. From preserving to creating wealth, Anthony partners with CPAs and attorneys to help address all of the concerns and help clients achieve their goals. By using a combination of financial products ranging from life, disability, and long-term care insurance to many investment options through Royal Alliance, Anthony looks to be the eyes and ears for his client’s financial foundation. In his spare time, Anthony is an avid long-distance runner.

Follow this link to access the complete show archive of Family Business Radio.

Nonprofit Fundraising Made Stronger with Mark Wilkison

October 15, 2025 by John Ray

Good2Give Podcast

Nonprofit Fundraising Made Stronger with Mark Wilkison

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Nonprofit Fundraising Made Stronger with Mark Wilkison (Good2Give Podcast, Episode 18)

In this episode of The Good2Give Podcast, hosted by DePriest Waddy and underwritten by the Community Foundation for Northeast Georgia, fundraising veteran Mark Wilkison, Principal and Partner at Columns Fundraising, shares timeless lessons on nonprofit fundraising, governance, board engagement, and major gift strategy.

With over three decades advising nonprofits across the Southeast, Mark explains why the right board can make or break an organization and how clear expectations, donor relationships, and legacy planning sustain long-term success. From practical end-of-year fundraising advice to insights on planned giving, this episode offers invaluable guidance for nonprofit leaders aiming to strengthen both their boards and their bottom line.

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

Key Takeaways from this Episode

Why governance and board recruitment come before fundraising—and how to find the “three Ws”: work, wisdom, and wealth.
How smaller nonprofits can attract high-caliber board members through clear expectations and written commitments.
Why organizations should never rely on Giving Tuesday alone.
Practical year-end fundraising strategies every nonprofit should be implementing before Thanksgiving.
How legacy gifts, IRA distributions, and planned giving can sustain mission impact for generations.

Topics Discussed in this Episode

00:00 Introduction to the Good To Give Podcast
00:22 Meet Mark Wilkinson: Fundraising Expert
00:58 The Changing Landscape of Fundraising
01:16 Board Governance and Membership
04:26 Strategies for Small Nonprofits
12:46 Year-End Fundraising Tips
18:33 Planning for 2026: Key Considerations
26:47 The Importance of Planned Giving
33:03 Final Thoughts and Contact Information

Mark Wilkison, Principal & Partner, Columns Fundraising

Mark has extensive expertise in major gifts, planned giving, feasibility studies, execution of capital campaigns, strategic planning and visioning for organizations, and executive search.

A graduate of the University of Vermont, Mark has more than 35 years of consulting and fundraising experience, including serving as Vice President – Development for Children’s Healthcare of Atlanta, Chief Development Officer at Piedmont Hospital in Atlanta, Chief Development Officer for the International Life Sciences Institute, and Executive Vice President of the Phi Gamma Delta Educational Foundation. Mark’s additional Phi Gam work included serving as a field secretary for the fraternity and as Director of Graduate Services.

Mark has served as President of the Atlanta Peachtree Rotary Club and has also been involved with the Association for Healthcare Philanthropy (AHP), the Georgia Education Advancement Council (GEAC), the Georgia Association of Development Professionals (GADP), and the Partnership for Philanthropic Planning (PPP).

Mark enjoys spending time with his wife, Shari, and his two grown children, and playing an occasional round of golf.

Columns Fundraising

Columns Fundraising is a strategic business and organizational development firm composed of senior executives with extensive experience in both nonprofit and private-sector leadership. The firm helps clients identify challenges, uncover opportunities, and execute customized strategies that deliver measurable results. Columns specializes in creating and implementing strategic plans for areas like healthcare, education, and community organizations, focusing on things like fundraising campaigns and studies to assess project viability.

Its integrated services encompass executive search, interim advancement staffing, nonprofit mergers, brand positioning, marketing and communications, public-private partnerships, and grant writing. Columns also provides leadership coaching and training for boards, executives, and development teams. What sets the firm apart is its commitment to senior-level involvement in every engagement. Columns’ leaders have “walked in their clients’ shoes,” bringing the insight and experience needed to accelerate growth and strengthen mission-driven organizations.

Website | LinkedIn

The Good2Give Podcast celebrates the work of donors, nonprofits, and the causes they care about. DePriest Waddy is the show’s host, 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

Jody daSilva, Leaders Team, on Breaking Growth Barriers

October 9, 2025 by John Ray

North Fulton Business Radio

Jody daSilva, Leaders Team, on Breaking Growth Barriers

00:00 /

Jody daSilva, Leaders Team, on Breaking Growth Barriers (North Fulton Business Radio, Episode 907)

Early in her career, when a McDonald’s location she managed flooded with a foot of water, Jody daSilva didn’t shut it down. She fixed it, reopened it, and never looked back. That same instinct to figure things out has powered her entire career.

Now with Leaders Team, Jody helps executives do the same inside their companies: fix what’s really broken. In her conversation with host North Fulton Business Radio host John Ray, she explains why so many mid-market firms stall out: not because of weak systems or bad hires, but because of the stories leaders tell themselves.

Jody and John dig into how those hidden beliefs shape culture, create silos, and kill growth. She shares what “ontological coaching” really means, why it’s not just pep-talk psychology, and how companies transform when leaders stop managing content and start changing who they are being.

Key Takeaways from This Episode

Why leadership transformation starts with who you’re being rather than what you’re doing
How personal stories and limiting beliefs can cap organizational growth
The role of ontological coaching in reshaping leadership effectiveness
How to recognize when a company culture or structure is holding back performance
Simple ways to begin dismantling silos and building alignment across teams

Topics Discussed in This Episode

00:00 Introduction to North Fulton Business Radio
01:52 Meet Jody daSilva: Leadership Insights
02:57 Jody’s Eclectic Career Journey
05:56 The Importance of Being in Business
07:32 Ontological Training and Its Impact
11:32 Transforming Company Culture
16:07 Exploring Company Silos
18:26 Identifying Symptoms of Dysfunction
21:38 Addressing Women Leaders’ Challenges
25:39 Success Stories and Transformations
27:50 Contact Information and Closing Remarks

Jody daSilva, Leaders Team

Jody daSilva is a senior manager and leadership consultant with more than 30 years of experience leading and advising across Fortune 500 companies and start-ups. Her career is defined by a track record of improving profitability, productivity, and organizational performance. Drawing on that experience, she now helps companies identify the unseen barriers that stall growth and performance.

Jody combines sharp business acumen with deep ontological training in the study of being and human nature to offer a distinctive approach to leadership development. Through her work with Leaders Team, she helps executives and teams uncover limiting beliefs, shift culture, and create alignment that drives sustainable results. Her clients credit her with breakthroughs that include doubling revenue, strengthening leadership teams, improving customer satisfaction, and building more cohesive, purpose-driven organizations.

Website | LinkedIn

Renasant Bank supports North Fulton Business Radio

Beyond Computer Solutions supports North Fulton Business Radio

Website | LinkedIn | Facebook | YouTube

About North Fulton Business Radio and host John Ray

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

How Randy Hain Built a Coaching Practice Rooted in Values

October 8, 2025 by John Ray

North Fulton Studio

How Randy Hain Built a Coaching Practice Rooted in Values

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How Randy Hain Built a Coaching Practice Rooted in Values (The Price and Value Journey, Episode 150)

What does it take to build a thriving executive coaching and leadership firm that reflects your values as much as your ambition?

In this episode of The Price and Value Journey podcast, host John Ray talks with Randy Hain, founder of Serviam Partners, about how he built his coaching practice from the ground up after decades as a senior executive. Randy shares how his corporate career at companies like Waffle House and a national search firm prepared him to launch Serviam, what he learned about risk, client trust, and discernment, and why his guiding principle is to create independence, not dependence, in every coaching relationship.

The discussion covers everything from building a values-based business, forming a long-term partnership with Brandon Smith at The Leadership Foundry, writing twelve books, managing time intentionally, and integrating faith, family, and work.

For anyone building a service-based business, Randy’s story offers a clear model for doing meaningful work without losing yourself in the process.

The Price and Value Journey is presented by John Ray and produced by North Fulton Business Radio, LLC, an affiliate of the Business RadioX® podcast network.

Key Takeaways You Can Use from This Episode

You don’t need a certification to start if you have experience, credibility, and a track record of results.
The best marketing is client advocacy; Randy’s 285 LinkedIn recommendations drive his business.
Clarity, candor, and customization build lasting client trust.
True coaching helps clients become independent, not reliant on you.
Partnerships work when they’re built on shared values, clear structure, and mutual respect.
Time management is a leadership discipline—intentional scheduling makes balance possible.
Writing sharpens thinking; journaling fuels content that attracts ideal clients.
Legacy isn’t built with resume lines. It’s the ripple of impact you leave in others.

Topics Discussed in this Episode

00:00 Welcome to The Price and Value Journey podcast
00:48 Introducing Randy Hain: Founder of Serviam Partners
02:27 Randy’s Career Journey: From Retail to Executive Coaching
04:39 The Decision to Pursue Coaching Full-Time
05:59 The Importance of Experience Over Certifications
09:52 The Secret Sauce of Effective Coaching
16:21 The Leadership Foundry: A Unique Partnership
23:09 The Role of Great Virtual Assistants
24:46 Randy’s Writing Journey
28:53 Reflecting on Assumptions and Writing Process
30:03 Journaling and Stimulating Creativity
31:34 Prolific Writing and Publishing Strategies
32:23 Challenges with Traditional Publishing
33:02 Reverse Engineering Content for Books
36:38 The Role of an Editor
38:19 Concerns and Uses of AI in Writing
42:59 Intersection of Faith and Business
46:07 Advice for Younger Professionals
49:22 Legacy and Eulogy Virtues
53:31 Final Thoughts and Closing Remarks

Randy Hain, Serviam Partners and the Leadership Foundry

Randy Hain, on The Price and Value Journey podcsat with host John Ray — **Randy Hain**

Randy Hain is the founder and president of Serviam Partners and the co-founder of the Leadership Foundry.

With a successful 30-plus-year career in senior leadership roles, corporate talent, and executive search, Randy is a sought-after executive coach for senior leaders at some of the best-known companies in the U.S. and globally who are seeking candid and expert guidance on how to overcome obstacles to their success or develop new leadership skills.

Randy is also an expert at onboarding senior executives, as well as coaching senior leadership teams to improve trust, alignment, collaboration, and candid communication. His deep expertise as a former senior executive and his years as a proven and successful executive coach for leaders around the world are true areas of differentiation for him and Serviam Partners.

Randy is a husband, father, and active community leader and serves on the boards of the causes he cares about most. He is particularly passionate about elevating autism awareness and investing in the next generation of leaders.

Randy has earned a reputation as a creative business partner and a generous thought leader through his books, articles, and speaking engagements. Randy is the award-winning author of 12 books, including the brand new Practical Virtue: An Actionable Guide to Help You Become a Leader Worth Following.

John Ray, Host of The Price and Value Journey

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

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

Your combination of these elements is unique in your industry. There lies your value, but it’s not the value you see. It’s the value your best-fit customers see in you.

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

Protecting Dentists and Their Practices, Jack McKinney, TDIC

October 7, 2025 by John Ray

Dental Business Radio

Protecting Dentists and Their Practices, Jack McKinney, TDIC

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Protecting Dentists and Their Practices, Jack McKinney, TDIC (Dental Business Radio, Episode 61)

Patrick O’Rourke welcomes Jack McKinney, Vice President of Sales and Service for The Dentists Insurance Company (TDIC) and TDIC Insurance Solutions, for a practical conversation about how dentists can protect their livelihoods before problems strike.

Jack explains how TDIC’s carrier and agency work together to give dentists comprehensive protection, from professional liability and property coverage to cyber, disability, and long-term-care plans. He also shares why dentists should never treat insurance like a one-time purchase, how business model changes such as teledentistry can affect coverage, and why TDIC’s peer-review process for nonrenewals is so unusual in the industry.

This episode is a reminder that running a successful practice isn’t just about clinical skill. It’s about understanding risk, staying proactive, and partnering with advisors who know the dental world as well as you do.

Dental Business Radio is underwritten and presented by Practice Quotient: PPO Negotiations & Analysis and produced by John Ray and the North Fulton affiliate of Business RadioX®.

Key Takeaways in This Episode

By dentists, for dentists: The Dentists Insurance Company (TDIC) was created by the California Dental Association to address rising malpractice costs and now provides a full range of coverage options.
Two entities, one purpose: TDIC is the carrier, while TDIC Insurance Solutions acts as the agency distributing TDIC and other carriers’ products to ensure dentists have the right fit for their practice.
Comprehensive protection matters: Beyond professional liability, practices should consider property, cyber, EPLI, workers’ comp, disability, and long-term care coverage to fully protect their business and income.
Be proactive, not reactive: Dentists should schedule regular insurance reviews, especially before acquisitions, relocations, or business model changes like teledentistry.
Unique peer review process: TDIC’s nonrenewal appeals are reviewed by a board of dentists, allowing for real-world context and fairness that’s rare in the insurance industry.

Topics Discussed in this Episode

00:00 Introduction to Dental Business Radio
01:11 Meet Jack McKinney: Insurance Industry Veteran
03:13 Understanding TDIC and Its Services
10:27 Insurance Needs for New Dentists
13:03 The Importance of Disability and Life Insurance
19:01 Buy-Sell Agreements and Other Insurance Considerations
21:33 Understanding Insurance Ownership and Risks
21:56 When to Revisit Your Insurance Policies
22:33 Teledentistry and Insurance Implications
25:34 The Role of Underwriters and Actuaries
26:45 Unique Appeals Process for Non-Renewals
27:41 The Rapid Evolution of Healthcare and Insurance
29:42 Cyber Insurance: Costs and Necessity
33:41 Long-Term Care Insurance: What You Need to Know
39:25 The Importance of Regular Insurance Checkups
41:26 Conclusion and Final Thoughts

Jack McKinney and The Dentists Insurance Company (TDIC)

Jack McKinney is Vice President of Sales and Service for The Dentists Insurance Company (TDIC) and TDIC Insurance Solutions, where he leads teams that help dentists protect their practices through comprehensive risk management and coverage solutions. With more than 35 years of experience on both the agency and carrier sides of the insurance industry, Jack is known for his expertise in professional liability, property, and casualty insurance, as well as his commitment to educating dental professionals on proactive protection for their businesses. Based in Sacramento, he continues to advance TDIC’s mission of serving the dental community with integrity and practical insight.

TDIC is a specialized insurance company founded in 1980 by a group of dentists to provide professional liability insurance and related coverage tailored specifically for dentists. It focuses exclusively on protecting dentists and their practices with comprehensive insurance products, including professional liability, employment practice liability, commercial property, workers’ compensation, and cyber liability, among others. TDIC serves a community of more than 24,000 dentists across 15 states, has earned an A (Excellent) rating from AM Best for over 30 years, and holds endorsements from several state dental associations.

The company emphasizes personalized service delivered by experts who understand the dental profession and offers risk management resources, continuing education, and claims support designed specifically for dentists. TDIC also provides online account management to simplify policy handling and bill payments. The company aims to offer exceptional protection at a fair price, backed by its longstanding history and commitment to the dental community.

Website | LinkedIn | Jack’s LinkedIn

Dental Business Radio covers the business side of dentistry. Host Patrick O’Rourke and his guests cover industry trends, insights, success stories, and more in this wide-ranging show. The show’s guests include successful doctors across the spectrum of dental practice providers, as well as trusted advisors and noted industry participants.

Dental Business Radio is underwritten and presented by Practice Quotient and produced by John Ray and North Fulton Business Radio, LLC, an affiliate of Business RadioX®. You can find the show on all major podcast apps and access the complete show archive here.

Practice Quotient

Practice Quotient is the sponsor of Dental Business Radio. Practice Quotient, Inc. serves as a bridge between the payor and provider communities. Their clients include general dentists and dental specialty practices across the nation of all sizes, from completely fee-for-service-only to active network participation with every dental plan possible. They work with independent practices, emerging multi-practice entities, and various large ownership entities in the dental space. Their PPO negotiations and analysis projects evaluate the merits of the various in-network participation contract options specific to your practice’s patient acquisition strategy. There is no one-size-fits-all solution.

Connect with Practice Quotient

Website | LinkedIn | Facebook | X (Twitter)

Manuja Ranasinghe of 50 Acres Tea: Wellness in a Cup (North Fulton Business Radio, Episode 909)

Key Takeaways from This Episode

Topics Discussed in this Episode

Manuja Ranasinghe, Founder, 50 Acres Tea

Renasant Bank supports North Fulton Business Radio

Beyond Computer Solutions supports North Fulton Business Radio

About North Fulton Business Radio and host John Ray

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

Key Takeaways from This Episode

Topics Discussed in this Episode

Ryan Morgan Williams, Artisan Design Studio

Mary Atchley, Walk Your Plans Atlanta

About GNFCC and The GNFCC 400 Insider podcast

Dr. Bill Lampton on Communication and the Leap from Academia (The Price and Value Journey, Episode 151)

Key Takeaways You Can Use from This Episode

Topics Discussed in this Episode

Dr. Bill Lampton, The Biz Communication Guy

John Ray, Host of The Price and Value Journey

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

Connect with John Ray:

Performance-Based Hiring with Marc Morris, The Talmadge Group (North Fulton Business Radio, Episode 908)

Key Takeaways from This Episode

Topics Discussed in this Episode

Marc Morris, Founder and President, The Talmadge Group

Renasant Bank supports North Fulton Business Radio

Beyond Computer Solutions supports North Fulton Business Radio

About North Fulton Business Radio and host John Ray

Meijah Lewis on Sugar Daddy Cookies, Jeff Brown on Cybersecurity (Family Business Radio, Episode 69)

Key Takeaways from This Episode

Topics Discussed in this Episode

Meijah “Mimi” Lewis, Sugar Daddy Cookies

Jeff Brown, TakTik Technologies

Anthony Chen, Host of Family Business Radio

Nonprofit Fundraising Made Stronger with Mark Wilkison (Good2Give Podcast, Episode 18)

Key Takeaways from this Episode

Topics Discussed in this Episode

Mark Wilkison, Principal & Partner, Columns Fundraising

Columns Fundraising

About the Good2Give Podcast

Community Foundation of Northeast Georgia

Jody daSilva, Leaders Team, on Breaking Growth Barriers (North Fulton Business Radio, Episode 907)

Key Takeaways from This Episode

Topics Discussed in This Episode

Jody daSilva, Leaders Team

Renasant Bank supports North Fulton Business Radio

Beyond Computer Solutions supports North Fulton Business Radio

About North Fulton Business Radio and host John Ray

How Randy Hain Built a Coaching Practice Rooted in Values (The Price and Value Journey, Episode 150)

Key Takeaways You Can Use from This Episode

Topics Discussed in this Episode

Randy Hain, Serviam Partners and the Leadership Foundry

John Ray, Host of The Price and Value Journey

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

Connect with John Ray:

Protecting Dentists and Their Practices, Jack McKinney, TDIC (Dental Business Radio, Episode 61)

Key Takeaways in This Episode

Topics Discussed in this Episode

Jack McKinney and The Dentists Insurance Company (TDIC)

About Dental Business Radio

Practice Quotient

Connect with Practice Quotient

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