John Ray, Author at Business RadioX ® Page

Smart Risk Taking, with Anthony Chen, Host of Family Business Radio

August 5, 2024 by John Ray

Family Business Radio

Smart Risk Taking, with Anthony Chen, Host of Family Business Radio

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Smart Risk Taking, with Anthony Chen, Host of Family Business Radio

In a commentary from a recent Family Business Radio episode, host Anthony Chen discusses smart risk taking for major financial decisions.

Anthony’s commentary was taken from this episode of Family Business Radio. Family Business Radio is underwritten by Anthony Chen with Lighthouse Financial Network.

Transcript

Anthony Chen: Now, for closing out the show, here’s a little bit of called Anthony’s Financial Take. From today’s show of themes all about building values, sticking true to your values, and standing behind your professionalism and workmanship.

So the financial take for today is as you’re going through your journey, whether it’s taking that potential risk of, should I start my own business? How’s that going to look like for me financially? Should I stay in my quote unquote, safe or conservative nine to five job? That’s really something that only you would be able to find the right answers to, but instead of sticking kind of what Chris mentioned, Going analysis by paralysis, or I think the other way around, I’m also very much guilty of that, where I just have spreadsheets on spreadsheets.

And so you know what? Why don’t you just take Michael’s advice here and just do enough due diligence where I know I’m not jumping off a cliff and that I’m going with a glider or a parachute. Make smart risk taking decisions and don’t think that you know it all. Reach out to people, reach out to other professionals.

And as Chris mentioned in terms of his example, as he’s interviewing other roofing companies, also look at their end product. So in your situation, when you’re looking to establishing your own financial future, establishing your own business, Look upon your peers. They’re not just competition because we’ve all been through this.

We’ve gone through the growing pains and more likely than not the business community is pretty friendly. Say, Hey, I went through this. You don’t need to reinvent the wheel here. Here’s the things that you should avoid because I went through that. So reach out to your peers, find some mentors, connect with them.

And really that’s all I’ve got. And thank you for listening to “Family Business Radio.”

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.

The complete show archive of Family Business Radio can be found by following this link.

Behind the Scenes at ProMed and the Dental Supply Industry, with Rod and Roderick Uribe, ProMed

August 2, 2024 by John Ray

Dental Business Radio

Behind the Scenes at ProMed and the Dental Supply Industry, with Rod and Roderick Uribe, ProMed

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Behind the Scenes at ProMed and the Dental Supply Industry, with Rod and Roderick Uribe, ProMed (Dental Business Radio, Episode 52)

In this episode of Dental Business Radio, host Patrick O’Rourke interviews Rod and Roderick Uribe from ProMed. They discuss their family-owned business specializing in oral surgery equipment and their competitive edge over larger dental supply chains like Henry Schein and Patterson. The conversation touches on the benefits and challenges of the father-son dynamic in business, ProMed’s personalized service approach, and their global reach, including projects in Jamaica, Hawaii, and Alaska. The discussion also includes a detailed look at the importance of equipment like monitors and the intricacies of air quality in oral surgery practices. The episode concludes with insights into the evolving industry and Rod’s tips on starting and running a successful dental business.

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

ProMed Medical and Dental Equipment Sales

ProMed, based in Georgia, is a leading provider of high-quality medical equipment and supplies, dedicated to serving healthcare professionals and institutions with excellence and integrity. With a focus on innovation and customer satisfaction, ProMed offers a comprehensive range of products that meet the diverse needs of the medical industry.

The expert team at ProMed Sales is committed to delivering personalized service, ensuring that each client receives the right solutions to enhance patient care and operational efficiency. The company prides itself on building long-term relationships with clients by providing reliable, cost-effective products and exceptional support.

Website | Facebook | Instagram

Topics Discussed in this Episode

00:00 Introduction and Guest Introduction
01:01 Father-Son Dynamic in Business
02:53 What ProMed Does
04:15 ProMed vs. Big Dental Supply Chains
04:44 Customization and Service at ProMed
08:28 Challenges with Private Equity in Oral Surgery
14:18 Importance of Equipment and Service
24:16 Air Filtration and COVID-19 Impact
29:10 Greetings and Acknowledgements
29:35 Family Business Dynamics
30:58 Roderick’s Early Experiences
33:08 Challenges and Advantages of Working with Family
34:12 Traveling and Learning Together
35:35 Equipment Knowledge and Industry Insights
39:23 Roderick’s Perspective and Future Plans
46:19 Contact Information and Final Thoughts

About Dental Business Radio

Patrick O’Rourke, Founder and CEO of Practice Quotient and Host of *Dental Business Radio*

Patrick O’Rourke, the host of Dental Business Radio, covers the business side of dentistry. O’Rourke and his guests discuss 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 the North Fulton studio of Business RadioX®. The show can be found on all the major podcast apps, and a complete show archive is here.

Practice Quotient

Dental Business Radio is sponsored by Patrick O’Rourke, Founder & CEO of Practice Quotient. 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 Patrick O’Rourke and Practice Quotient

Boosting North Fulton Tourism: An Inside Look at Ameris Bank Amphitheatre, with Trevor Ralph, Live Nation Entertainment

August 1, 2024 by John Ray

Boosting North Fulton Tourism: An Inside Look at Ameris Bank Amphitheater, with Trevor Ralph, on the GNFCC 400 Insider Podcast

North Fulton Studio

Boosting North Fulton Tourism: An Inside Look at Ameris Bank Amphitheatre, with Trevor Ralph, Live Nation Entertainment

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Boosting North Fulton Tourism: An Inside Look at Ameris Bank Amphitheatre, with Trevor Ralph, Live Nation Entertainment (GNFCC 400 Insider, Episode 97)

In this episode of the GNFCC 400 Insider, Kali Boatright, President and CEO of the Greater North Fulton Chamber of Commerce, talks with Trevor Ralph, Vice President of Operations at Live Nation Entertainment. They discuss the significant impact of the concert entertainment industry on North Fulton’s tourism, specifically focusing on the Ameris Bank Amphitheatre. Trevor shares his career journey, the amphitheatre’s growth and success, and its role as a community hub. He also discusses the economic impact, marketing strategies, and upcoming shows. Additionally, they touch on the venue’s community contributions, including hosting high school graduations and supporting local booster groups.

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

Trevor Ralph, Live Nation Entertainment

Trevor Ralph has been active in the concert business since 1998.

He started his live event career with regional Ohio promoter Belkin Productions as Senior Director of Marketing and Operations, where he opened the Tower City Amphitheatre and ran several large festivals. He spent time in Northern California with Bill Graham Presents, managing the amphitheaters in Sacramento (Wheatland) and Concord, as well as promoting shows throughout the west.

In 2008, Trevor moved to Atlanta to open Ameris Bank Amphitheatre (formerly Verizon Wireless Amphitheatre at Encore Park) as Chief Operating Officer of ASO Presents, a division of the Woodruff Arts Center.

In 2016, Live Nation entered a long-term lease to operate Ameris Bank Amphitheatre and Cadence Bank Amphitheatre at Chastain Park, and Trevor rejoined the Live Nation team as Vice President of Operations for Live Nation Atlanta.

Trevor has two children, Sophie, 22, and Colin, 20.

Ameris Bank Amphitheatre

Ameris Bank Amphitheatre, located in Alpharetta, Georgia, is a premier outdoor concert venue that boasts a capacity of up to 12,500 guests. Opened in 2008, it was originally known as the Verizon Wireless Amphitheatre before being renamed in 2019. The amphitheatre is nestled within a picturesque 45-acre woodland setting, providing a unique blend of natural beauty and state-of-the-art technology.

The amphitheatre features a distinctive fan-shaped roof made from a translucent material, allowing for an immersive experience while protecting attendees from the elements. The venue’s design integrates the surrounding greenery, enhancing the acoustic experience and creating a serene atmosphere for live performances.

Ameris Bank Amphitheatre is renowned for its exceptional sound quality, supported by a sophisticated audio system that includes over 100 finely tuned speakers. This ensures that every performance resonates clearly, regardless of where attendees are seated.

The venue offers a diverse range of food and beverage options, from local favorites to gourmet selections, enhancing the overall concert experience. Food trucks and a full-service restaurant cater to various tastes, making each event a culinary adventure.

Ameris Bank Amphitheatre has become a cornerstone of the North Fulton cultural scene, hosting a wide array of performances from top-tier artists across genres, including rock, country, and pop.

The amphitheatre is strategically located within the Atlanta metropolitan area, making it easily accessible for both locals and visitors. It plays a vital role in nurturing local talent and supporting the arts, contributing to the vibrancy of the community.

Website | Upcoming Events

Topics Discussed in this Episode

00:00 Introduction to GNFCC 400 Insider
00:57 Meet Trevor Ralph: From Record Store to Live Nation
01:47 The Birth and Growth of Ameris Bank Amphitheatre
03:46 Impact of Ameris Bank Amphitheatre on Local Tourism
06:06 The Post-COVID Concert Landscape
13:01 Marketing Strategies and Audience Engagement
16:02 Community Engagement and Support
18:56 Live Nation’s Regional and National Presence
22:27 Upcoming Events and Future Plans
24:31 Conclusion and Contact Information

About GNFCC and The GNFCC 400 Insider

**Kali Boatright, President and CEO of GNFCC**

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.

Two Lessons I’ve Learned After 15 Years as The Profitability Coach, with Bill McDermott, Host of ProfitSense

August 1, 2024 by John Ray

North Fulton Studio

Two Lessons I’ve Learned After 15 Years as The Profitability Coach, with Bill McDermott, Host of ProfitSense

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Two Lessons I’ve Learned After 15 Years as The Profitability Coach, with Bill McDermott, Host of ProfitSense

In this commentary from a recent episode of ProfitSense, Bill talks about two lessons he’s learned in his business after 15 years as The Profitability Coach.

Bill’s commentary was taken from this episode of ProfitSense.

ProfitSense with Bill McDermott is produced by John Ray and the North Fulton Studio of Business RadioX® in Alpharetta.

Transcript

I want to spend just a moment talking about some of my entrepreneurial journey in today’s uncertain economy. It’s more important than ever for business leaders to make the right bets. But how do you derisk your decisions and ensure that you’re making the best choices for your company?

After running my own business for 15 years, I’ve concluded that starting a business is like one big experiment. Looking back, I think there are two important points to be successful. Number one is first fire bullets, then fire cannonballs. This means starting with a small, low-risk experiment to test your ideas.

And once you’ve validated your concept, you can then go all in with a larger investment. This approach helps you avoid making costly mistakes and gives you time to course correct if needed. I believe my bullets which became cannonballs were profitability coaching and then exit planning. The scope of work has increased and my average revenue per client has increased over time.

Number two, find your true calling. This means understanding what you’re truly passionate about and what you’re best at. Start, run a business with those components. Once you know this, you can focus your resources on activities that are most likely to lead to success. Because my desire was to leave a legacy of making business owners better financial managers.

This meant we take time to understand the accounting in their financial statements, what those financial statement trends were telling us, and what course of action we need to take. I love to coach and live for those light bulb moments when financial confusion becomes financial clarity. The opportunity to listen to business owners share their stories of where they are and where they want to go helped me find my true calling.

About ProfitSense and Your Host, Bill McDermott

ProfitSense with Bill McDermott dives into the stories behind some of Atlanta’s successful businesses and business owners and the professionals that advise them. This show helps local business leaders get the word out about the important work they’re doing to serve their market, their community, and their profession.

Follow this link to find the show archive.

The show is presented by The Profitability Coach. The Profitability Coach helps business owners improve cash flow and profitability, find financing, break through barriers to expansion, and financially prepare to exit their business.

Bill McDermott is the Founder and CEO of The Profitability Coach. When business owners want to increase their profitability, they don’t have the expertise to know where to start or what to do. Bill leverages his knowledge and relationships from 32 years as a banker to identify the hurdles getting in the way and create a plan to deliver profitability they never thought possible.

Bill currently serves as Treasurer for the Atlanta Executive Forum and has held previous positions as a board member for the Kennesaw State University Entrepreneurship Center, Gwinnett Habitat for Humanity, and Treasurer for CEO NetWeavers. Bill is a graduate of Wake Forest University, and he and his wife, Martha, have called Atlanta home for over 40 years. Outside of work, Bill enjoys golf, traveling, and gardening.

Connect with Bill on LinkedIn and Instagram and follow The Profitability Coach on LinkedIn.

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

July 31, 2024 by John Ray

North Fulton Business Radio

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

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

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

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

HomeStretch

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

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

Website | LinkedIn | Instagram | Facebook

Cheryl Carter, Executive Director, HomeStretch

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

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

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

Topics Covered in this Episode

**Brittany Phillips and Cheryl Carter, HomeStretch**

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

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

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

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

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

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

Website | LinkedIn | Facebook | Instagram

About North Fulton Business Radio and host John Ray

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

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

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

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

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

John 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.

An Inflation Conversation on the Jobber Masters of Home Service Podcast

July 31, 2024 by John Ray

North Fulton Studio

An Inflation Conversation on the Jobber Masters of Home Service Podcast

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An Inflation Conversation on the Jobber Masters of Home Service Podcast (Organization Conversation, Episode 61)

Organization Conversation host Richard Grove, who recently made a guest appearance on Adam Sylvester’s Masters of Home Service podcast, is the featured guest on this episode. Richard shares insights aimed at helping entrepreneurs, solopreneurs, and home service professionals navigate challenges related to inflation, cost management, and pricing strategies. Key topics discussed include understanding unit economics, negotiating with suppliers, effective pricing models, and improving employee compensation. Listeners are encouraged to leverage creative solutions to maintain profitability and operational efficiency amid rising costs.

The original Masters of Home Service podcast episode featuring Richard can be found by following this link.

Organization Conversation is sponsored by Wall Control. The show is produced by John Ray and the North Fulton studio of Business RadioX®.

Topics Discussed in this Episode

00:00 Introduction and Welcome to Organization Conversation
00:24 Special Episode Announcement
01:45 Masters of Home Service Podcast Introduction
02:02 Guest Introduction: Richard Grove
03:01 Understanding Your Numbers
06:21 Managing Labor Costs
10:36 Cutting Costs and Pricing Strategies
13:33 Supplier Negotiation Tactics
18:20 Client Communication and Price Increases
23:30 Inflation Outlook and Final Thoughts
26:10 Conclusion and Farewell

Richard Grove, Wall Control

**Richard Grove, COO, Wall Control, Small Business Consultant, and Host of Organization Conversation**

Richard Grove‘s background is in engineering, but what he enjoys most is brand building through relationships and creative marketing. Richard began his career with the Department of Defense as an engineer on the C-5 Galaxy Engineering Team, based out of Warner Robins. While Richard found this experience both rewarding and fulfilling, he always knew deep down that he wanted to return to the small family business that originally triggered his interest in engineering.

Richard came to work for the family business, Dekalb Tool & Die, in 2008 as a Mechanical Engineer. At the time, Wall Control was little more than a small ‘side hustle’ for Dekalb Tool & Die to try to produce some incremental income. There were no “Wall Control” employees, just a small warehouse with a single tool and die maker that would double as an “order fulfillment associate” on the occasion that the original WallControl.com website, which Richard’s grandmother built, pulled in an order.

In 2008, it became apparent that for the family business to survive, they were going to have to produce their own branded product at scale to ensure jobs remained in-house and for the business to continue to move forward. Richard then turned his attention from tool and die to Wall Control to attempt this necessary pivot, and his story with Wall Control began. Since that time, Richard has led Wall Control to significant growth while navigating two recessions.

Outside of Richard’s work at Wall Control, he enjoys helping other business owners, operators, and entrepreneurs along their own paths to success by offering personal business coaching and advice through his website, ConsultantSmallBusiness.com. Richard has developed an expansive and unique skillset, growing and scaling Wall Control through a multitude of challenges to become the successful brand and company it is today. Richard is happy to share his knowledge and experience with others who are looking to do the same within their own businesses.

Connect with Richard:

Instagram | Twitter | LinkedIn | Richard’s Website

Adam Sylvester, Host of Masters of Home Service, and Owner of Charlottesville Gutter Pros and Charlottesville Lawn Care

Adam Sylvester started Charlottesville Lawn Care in 2013 and Charlottesville Gutter Pros in the fall of 2020, in Charlottesville, VA. He likes to say, “I do gutters and grass! When it rains the grass grows and the gutters leak!” He got into owning his own business because he saw it as a huge opportunity to generate great income while living a life that suited him. He believes that small companies can make a serious impact on their communities and on every individual they touch, and he wanted to build a company that could make a big difference. His sweet spot talent is sales and marketing with a strong passion for building a place his team wants to work. Adam values his employees and loves leading people. While operations and efficiency is not something that comes naturally to him, he is constantly working to improve himself and his business in these areas.

About Organization Conversation

Organization Conversation, sponsored by Wall Control, is hosted by Richard Grove and broadcast and produced from the North Fulton studio of Business RadioX®. 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, Amazon, iHeart Radio, and others.

About Wall Control

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

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

The Wall Control brand launched in 2003 and is a family-owned and operated business that not only produces a high-quality American-made product but sees the entire design, production, and distribution process happen under their own roof in Tucker, Georgia. Under that same roof, three generations of American Manufacturing are still hard at work creating the best tool storage products available today.

Connect with Wall Control:

Company website | Facebook | Instagram

Air Purification in Dentistry, with Dr. Nick Kavouklis, Surgically Clean Air®

July 29, 2024 by John Ray

Dental Business Radio

Air Purification in Dentistry, with Dr. Nick Kavouklis, Surgically Clean Air®

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Air Purification in Dentistry, with Dr. Nick Kavouklis, Surgically Clean Air® (Dental Business Radio, Episode 51)

In this episode of Dental Business Radio, host Patrick O’Rourke talks with Dr. Nick Kavouklis, a dentist and serial entrepreneur turned air purification innovator. Broadcasting live from Tampa, Dr. Nick explains his latest venture into commercial-grade air purification systems specifically designed for dental office environments. Highlighting the importance of air quality, he discusses the benefits of these systems for both patient and staff safety and their potential to attract top-tier hygienists. The conversation also delves into the technical aspects of air filtration and its critical role in indoor air quality improvement, particularly for dental offices. Dr. Nick shares his journey from using particle counters to validate the effectiveness of his systems to acquiring the company producing these purification units. The episode offers commentary and resources for listeners to integrate these advanced air purification systems into their practices.

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

Dr. Nick Kavouklis, CEO, Surgically Clean Air®

Dr. Nick L. Kavouklis is also a dedicated dentist and entrepreneur based in Tampa, Florida. He also established Dr. Nick’s White & Healthy Dentistry in 2010. Dr. Nick is committed to providing high-quality dental care, offering a wide range of services including preventive, restorative, aesthetic, and cosmetic dentistry. He has advanced training in various procedures, is certified in Oral Sedation and Invisalign, and has completed courses at LVI to enhance his skills in cosmetic dentistry.

Beyond his clinical practice, Dr. Kavouklis has made significant contributions to the dental and healthcare industries through various entrepreneurial ventures. He founded Argus Dental & Vision, Inc. in 2007, where he serves as CEO and President, administering dental and vision plans for over 600,000 policyholders. Previously, he was the President and CEO of Argus Legal, Dental Power and Argus Medical from 2001 to 2013, and he served as the Dental Director for the Physicians Health Care Plan, overseeing a network of dentists for a 250,000-member Medicaid Health Maintenance Organization.

Patients appreciate Dr. Kavouklis for his compassionate, patient-centered approach, and he is known for his ability to ease dental anxiety and handle complex cases. His commitment to continuous improvement and innovation in dental care makes him a respected figure in both clinical practice and healthcare entrepreneurship.

Surgically Clean Air®

Surgically Clean Air specializes in advanced air purification solutions designed to enhance indoor air quality across various industries. Their medical-grade air purification systems, such as the Jade 2.0 and ONYXsca, utilize robust filtering technologies to eliminate airborne contaminants like pollen, dust, and viruses, thereby protecting professionals and improving the air we breathe.

The company initially focused on the dental market, providing air purification units that have significantly improved air quality in dental practices. Many dental offices report a noticeable reduction in dust and airborne particles, enhancing both patient and staff comfort and safety. In addition to dental offices, their products are widely used in healthcare facilities to maintain sterile environments, which is crucial for patient care and recovery.

Educational institutions also benefit from Surgically Clean Air’s systems, as schools and universities utilize these air purifiers to create safer learning environments. By reducing airborne contaminants, these institutions help protect students and staff from illnesses while improving overall air quality. Commercial offices have adopted Surgically Clean Air’s portable air purifiers to ensure a healthier workplace, addressing concerns about indoor air quality and contributing to a safer, more productive work environment.

The company’s offerings extend to residential spaces as well, providing clean air solutions for families. Their air purifiers are particularly beneficial for individuals with allergies or respiratory conditions, ensuring a healthier living space.

Surgically Clean Air’s products feature multiple stages of filtration, capturing over 99.9% of airborne particles. Constructed with premium materials and equipped with visual sensors for real-time air quality monitoring, their systems exemplify the company’s commitment to promoting health and sustainability. Through comprehensive air management solutions, Surgically Clean Air aims to foster healthier environments across a broad spectrum of applications, ensuring the well-being of users in various settings.

Website | LinkedIn | Facebook | Instagram

Topics Discussed in this Episode

00:00 Introduction and Welcome
00:42 Meet Dr. Nick Kavouklis
01:36 Dr. Nick’s Entrepreneurial Journey
04:12 The Importance of Air Purification in Dental Offices
06:22 Surgically Clean Air: Features and Benefits
10:43 Real-World Applications and Testimonials
12:55 How to Get Surgically Clean Air for Your Office
26:01 Closing Remarks

About Dental Business Radio

Practice Quotient

Connect with Patrick O’Rourke and Practice Quotient

Leadership Lessons from the Navy to Veritiv, with Chris Martin, Veritiv Corporation

July 29, 2024 by John Ray

Executive Perspective

Leadership Lessons from the Navy to Veritiv, with Chris Martin, Veritiv Corporation

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Leadership Lessons from the Navy to Veritiv, with Chris Martin, Veritiv Corporation (Executive Perspective, Episode 14)

Chris Martin, Senior Vice President of Global Operations at Veritiv Corporation, discusses his transition from the U.S. Navy to corporate leadership in this episode of Executive Perspective, with host Danny Vander Maten. Chris discusses his diverse roles at Veritiv, the company’s mission and services, and the critical importance of people and culture in business. The conversation covers leadership lessons, the impact of mentoring, and the challenges and successes of Chris’s career. Chris offers insights into effective supply chain planning, inventory management, and the dynamic nature of the commercial real estate and packaging industry.

Executive Perspective is sponsored and presented by Cresa Atlanta. The show is produced by John Ray and the North Fulton affiliate of Business RadioX®.

Chris Martin, Senior Vice President of Global Operations, Veritiv Corporation

Chris Martin, Veritiv — **Chris Martin, Vertiv**

Chris Martin is the Senior Vice President of Global Operations for Veritiv, a B2B packaging, facility solutions, and fine print distribution company based in Sandy Springs, GA, with 90+ distribution centers across North America.

Chris has been with Veritiv for over 11 years, and prior to that, he served in leadership roles as an officer in the Navy, as a District Manager with Aldi Foods, and as a Senior Consultant with Deloitte Strategy and Operations Consulting.

Chris completed his MBA in 2014 at Xavier University in Cincinnati, OH, where he and his family are originally from. Chris also serves on the Advisory Board for the Atlanta Community Food Bank.

Chris partners in life with his wife, Erica and their three daughters, Audrey, Addyson and Annabel, who are all in the Fulton County School system. He enjoys reading historical non-fiction, being outdoors, playing and watching golf, and passionately following his Cincinnati Bengals and Reds. He spends time chauffeuring his girls between lacrosse, soccer, dance/voice/music theatre events, and playing with his 2 dogs, Beasty and Simba.

Veritiv Corporation

Veritiv Corporation, headquartered in Atlanta, is a full-service provider of packaging, JanSan, and hygiene products, services, and solutions. Additionally, Veritiv offers print and publishing products, as well as logistics and supply chain management solutions. Serving customers in a wide range of industries both in North America and globally, Veritiv operates distribution centers throughout the U.S. and Mexico and employs team members around the world to help shape the success of its customers.

The company’s vision is to be the most desired B2B design-to-delivery provider by serving its customers with a solutions-first mindset. This is achieved through living its CODE of Values every day. These values unite the team, represent the company’s identity, and influence its operations. The Veritiv CODE serves as a guidepost for everything the company does to achieve what matters most:

C: Cultivate Innovation
O: Own It
D: Delivery and Delight
E: Embrace the Green

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

Topics Discussed in this Episode

00:00 Introduction to Executive Perspective
01:04 Meet Chris Martin: From Ohio to Veritiv
02:54 Navy Experience and Transition to Civilian Life
04:31 Career at Aldi and Deloitte
07:04 Role and Operations at Veritiv
18:23 Leadership and Mentorship Insights
23:16 Navigating Career Transitions
23:39 Building Relationships in Business
23:56 The Power of Communication
24:59 Difficult Decisions in Leadership
25:56 From Navy to Corporate Life
29:54 Mentorship and Personal Growth
32:59 Reflections on Career and Leadership
37:38 Balancing Work and Life
40:10 Final Thoughts and Contact Information

About Executive Perspective

Executive Perspective features executives and business leaders from a wide variety of sectors. Host Danny Vander Maten and his guests cover industry trends, insights, challenges, success strategies and lessons learned. Executive Perspective is underwritten and presented by Cresa. The show series is produced by John Ray and the North Fulton studio of Business RadioX® and can be found on all the major podcast apps. A complete show archive can be found here.

Executive Perspective

Danny joined Cresa in the Spring of 2016 and brought a diverse background with nearly 10 years of experience in finance, business operations, and strategy to his client’s real estate transactions.

At Cresa, Danny’s primary responsibilities include strategic planning, lease analysis, negotiations, and cost mitigation. As a registered Certified Public Accountant with an active license in the state of Georgia, Danny provides unique financial insight into every critical aspect of the transaction.

Cresa is the world’s most trusted occupier-centric commercial real estate firm. They strategize for the best possible results for occupiers everywhere. Cresa thinks beyond space. Partner without conflict. And apply their integrated expertise to make your business better.

Connect with Danny: LinkedIn | Twitter

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

Creating Excellence in Landscape Design, with Jason Coultas, Huckleberry Enterprises

July 29, 2024 by John Ray

North Fulton Business Radio

Creating Excellence in Landscape Design, with Jason Coultas, Huckleberry Enterprises

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Creating Excellence in Landscape Design, with Jason Coultas, Huckleberry Enterprises (North Fulton Business Radio, Episode 790)

In this episode of North Fulton Business Radio, host John Ray interviews Jason Coultas, President of Huckleberry Enterprises. They discuss Huckleberry’s comprehensive landscape services, including commercial maintenance, HOA services, and residential design-build projects. Jason shares his journey, his passion for horticulture, and the importance of client satisfaction and relationship building. He explains how Huckleberry Enterprises prioritizes reducing client stress and ensuring long-term landscape sustainability. The episode also touches on common landscape maintenance mistakes and the significance of understanding environmental factors.

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.

Jason Coultas, President, Huckleberry Enterprises

Jason Coultas of Huckleberry Enterprises has decades of experience in all aspects of leading people, building trust with clients, developing a team, and maximizing opportunity. He has a passion for the entire client experience, from first contact to developing long-term, trust-based partnerships. As an arborist and horticulturist, he is a passionate provider of solutions for the many challenges in creating and maintaining effective and desirable landscape experiences, and a trusted advisor to clients and team members.

His greatest passion lies in developing and maintaining collaborative relationships within his industry with clients, team members, and vendors by always pursuing win-win experiences for everyone involved. Through effective advice and transparent communication, he continues to build cultures of collaboration that break the obstacles often created by self-seeking sales and management processes. He is always looking for new and better ways to serve his community and industry, and he is excited to grow with others as part of his network.

Huckleberry Enterprises

Jason Coultas and Brandon Baxter, two established leaders in the green industry with a track record of providing service to their clients, team members, and partners, founded Huckleberry Enterprises. Through a growing network of partnerships, the organization began growing as an organic response to the desire to be part of the journey.

A love of excellence, a service culture, and a sincere passion for the business drove Brandon and Jason as they developed their vision for Huckleberry in 2022. Unified in their vision to change the green industry in these three areas, the two founders began building the framework for Huckleberry upon these areas of passion.

Today, Huckleberry Enterprises has blossomed into a full-service provider, offering a wide array of services to include:

Complete residential landscape design services and consultation.
Complete installation of all elements, including walls, patios, drainage and erosion, irrigation, trees, shrubs, sod and seasonal color.
Commercial and HOA landscape maintenance and all supporting services.

Huckleberry Enterprises has chosen to place its highest efforts on creating excellence in everything it does. Their focus is on creating an experience for clients that directly reflects their culture of service.

They create and maintain outdoor spaces for clients by collaborating with their team both internally and externally, utilizing best industry practices, innovative ideas, and relentlessly pursuing excellence in every step.

Huckleberry Enterprises believes that all people are valuable and deserve their greatest efforts. By serving a diverse group of clients with the same tenacity and passion for service, they believe they can have the greatest impact on their community.

Website | LinkedIn | Instagram | Facebook

Topics Discussed in this Episode

00:00 Introduction and Welcome to North Fulton Business Radio
01:22 Meet Jason Coultas of Huckleberry Enterprises
01:34 Huckleberry Enterprises: Services and Approach
02:56 Jason’s Journey and Passion for Horticulture
05:22 The Importance of People in Landscaping
10:08 Challenges and Solutions in Landscaping
14:55 Client Relationships and Excellence
27:17 Conclusion and Contact Information
28:15 Sponsor Message and Closing Remarks

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

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

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