Alpharetta Archives - Page 2 of 5

Executive Search and Custom Software Development, with Tino Mantella, President, Retained, and CSO, Relevantz

July 19, 2024 by John Ray

North Fulton Business Radio

Executive Search and Custom Software Development, with Tino Mantella, President, Retained, and CSO, Relevantz

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Executive Search and Custom Software Development, with Tino Mantella, President, Retained, and CSO, Relevantz (North Fulton Business Radio, Episode 785)

In this episode of North Fulton Business Radio, host John Ray interviews Tino Mantella, President and Managing Partner of Retained, and Chief Strategy Officer of Relevantz. Tino shares insights into his multifaceted career, which includes his roles at these companies, his involvement in nonprofits, and his past leadership positions. He discusses the operations and strategic goals of Relevantz, a custom software development company, and Retained, an executive search firm. The conversation’s emphasis is placed on Tino’s extensive experience in leadership roles, his strategic approach to consulting, and the importance of effective communication and networking in business development.

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.

Tino Mantella, President, Retained, and CSO, Relevantz

Tino Mantella is a seasoned executive with over 25 years of leadership experience who currently holds significant positions at two companies in Alpharetta, Georgia: Relevantz Technology Services and Retained.

At Relevantz, Mantella serves as the Chief Strategy Officer. In this role, he is primarily responsible for advancing the company’s sales and marketing efforts, leveraging his extensive expertise to drive Relevantz’s growth strategy. Relevantz is a leading software services company that has been delivering technology solutions for enterprises and ISVs for over 25 years.

At Retained, Mantella holds the positions of Managing Partner and President. Retained is a newly formed executive search firm that specializes in placing C-suite tech positions, such as CIOs, CTOs, and CISOs, as well as other leadership positions, mostly in the technology sector.

Mantella’s career highlights include:

Leading YMCA programs for over 20 years, culminating in his role as CEO of the Chicago YMCA system, which he grew to become the largest YMCA system globally.
Playing a critical role in expanding the Technology Association of Georgia (TAG) from under 350 members to over 36,000, making it the largest tech trade association in North America.
Serving as CEO of Turknett Leadership Group (TLG), where he doubled the company’s growth and expanded its services.

In addition to his roles at Relevantz and Retained, Mantella maintains minority ownership in TLG, Tier4 Advisors, and the International Sports Technology Association. This diverse portfolio demonstrates his commitment to leadership across various sectors and his ability to drive growth in multiple organizations simultaneously.

Topics Discussed in this Episode

00:00 Introduction and Welcome to North Fulton Business Radio
01:11 Guest Introduction: Tino Mantella
02:37 Discussing Relevantz: Custom Software Development
12:28 Exploring Retained: Executive Search
17:35 Leadership and Strategy Insights
31:14 Conclusion and Contact Information
32:21 Closing Remarks and Announcements

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 770 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.

GNFCC 2024 Nonprofit Award Winners: The Drake House and Brewable

July 1, 2024 by John Ray

GNFCC Nonprofits of the Year for 2024: The Drake House, Nesha Mason, and Brewable, Nicky Rudd

North Fulton Studio

GNFCC 2024 Nonprofit Award Winners: The Drake House and Brewable

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GNFCC 2024 Nonprofit Award Winners: The Drake House and Brewable (GNFCC 400 Insider, Episode 96)

On this episode of the GNFCC 400 Insider, host Rebekah Anderson welcomes the leaders of this year’s Nonprofit Award winners: Brewable and The Drake House. Brewable received the Small Nonprofit Award, and Nicky Rudd, Board President, discusses their impactful mission of providing employment opportunities for individuals with intellectual and developmental disabilities. Nicky also shares her own journey, which makes Brewable’s mission so personal for her. Nesha Mason, President of Large Nonprofit Award winner The Drake House, discusses the organization’s efforts to support single mothers experiencing homelessness by offering stable housing and career services. Both highlight the importance of community involvement, the challenges faced, and the upcoming events aimed at continuing their missions.

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®.

Nesha Mason, President, The Drake House

Nesha Mason is the President of The Drake House. The Drake House is a 501(c)3 organization that works to respond to the growing number of women and children experiencing homelessness in North Fulton. They involve members of our community in the effort to keep single mothers and their children united under one roof as they work toward self-sufficiency.

The Drake House helps women with children overcome the circumstances of homelessness with dignity while keeping their families intact. In response to the changes in our post-COVID world, The Drake House has adapted its programming to help the families we serve acquire housing and achieve financial self-sufficiency.

Graduates of their program work, pay taxes, rent apartments, purchase groceries, attend faith-based organizations, and hopefully, one day, become homeowners. They are equipped to be good employees, tenants, and neighbors. When given the opportunity, some even use their story to inspire others to follow in their footsteps and take advantage of all the services The Drake House has to offer them. As they continue their work to improve their program and campus, The Drake House does so with the expectation that the results will lead to more graduates, more resilient children and teens, and ultimately, a stronger community.

Website | Instagram | Facebook | YouTube

Nicky Rudd, Board President, Brewable

Brewable is a non-profit organization based in Alpharetta, Georgia, dedicated to the employment and enrichment of adults with intellectual and developmental disabilities. The company operates a coffee shop that serves as a platform for their mission, offering employment opportunities and fostering community connections.

Founded in 2019, Brewable initially opened its café in the lobby of the Alpharetta Community Center, next to the entrance of Wills Park at 175 Roswell Street, Alpharetta, GA 30009. A second location has been added in Roswell at 846 Mimosa Boulevard, Roswell, GA 30075. Each Brewable café serves a variety of beverages, including hot coffee and tea, espresso, lattes, and cold brew, as well as scones, cake pops, and other treats.

Brewable’s primary focus is on empowering individuals with learning disabilities by providing them with meaningful employment opportunities in a supportive environment. The organization aims to create a space where adults with intellectual and developmental disabilities can gain valuable work experience, develop skills, and interact with the community.

As a social enterprise, Brewable combines its business operations with a strong social mission, using coffee as a means to foster inclusion, build connections, and promote understanding within the North Fulton region.

Website | Instagram | Facebook | LinkedIn

Topics Discussed in this Episode

00:00 Introduction to GNFCC 400 Insider
00:59 Meet the Nonprofit of the Year Winners
01:21 Nicky Rudd’s Journey with Brewable
03:57 Challenges and Successes of Brewable
08:15 Nesha Mason on The Drake House
10:58 Addressing Homelessness in North Fulton
21:51 Community Support and Nonprofit Success
28:32 Discussing Financial Barriers and Personal Experiences
29:58 Biggest Accomplishments of Brewables
30:36 Impactful Stories and Personal Reflections
33:27 Challenges and Future Goals
37:11 Affordable Housing and Community Support
47:29 Volunteer Opportunities and Community Engagement
54:05 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.

Fun, Greenspace, and the Arts in Alpharetta, with Morgan Rodgers, Director of Recreation, Parks, and Cultural Services, City of Alpharetta

April 17, 2024 by John Ray

Fun, Greenspace, and the Arts in Alpharetta, with Morgan Rodgers, Director of Recreation, Parks, and Cultural Services, City of Alpharetta (North Fulton Business Radio, Episode 764)

Morgan Rodgers, the Director of Recreation, Parks and Cultural Services for the City of Alpharetta, joins host John Ray on this edition of North Fulton Business Radio. As the “Minister of Fun,” Morgan discusses the myriad of activities and services offered by the City of Alpharetta to enhance the community’s quality of life. From the extensive network of parks and greenspaces designed for accessibility and community engagement to innovative arts and music programs aimed at enriching residents’ experiences, Alpharetta showcases its commitment to being a vibrant, fun-filled city. The episode also touches on bond-funded projects enhancing the city’s infrastructure, community-driven initiatives like the rebuilding of the Wacky World playground at Wills Park, and the strategic use of music and the arts to foster a dynamic community atmosphere. Additionally, Morgan shares unique offerings like adult sports leagues, community agriculture, and health and wellness programs, underscoring Alpharetta’s imaginative approach to community service and engagement.

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.

Morgan Rodgers, Director of Recreation, Parks, and Cultural Services, City of Alpharetta

Morgan Rodgers is an experienced recreation and parks professional with extensive and varied leadership experience. He currently serves as the Director of Recreation, Parks, and Cultural Services for the City of Alpharetta, Georgia.

Prior to his role in Alpharetta, Rodgers held director-level positions with the City of Roswell, Georgia Lockheed Employee Recreation Club, Jekyll Island Authority, Rome/Floyd County Recreation Authority, and Moore County, North Carolina.

Rodgers holds a Bachelor of Science degree in Recreation and Parks Administration from Clemson University, where he graduated with honors.

He is a Certified Park & Recreation Professional (CPRP) and has been recognized with the Mike Daniels Leadership Award and Roy Hammond Leadership Award from the Georgia Recreation and Parks Association.

In addition to his professional work, Rodgers is also an author, having published four books: three novels, Family Business, Past Sins, Timing…The Key to Life, and a management book, One Line Management.

Website | Facebook | Instagram | X (Twitter)

Topics Discussed in this Episode

00:00 Welcome to North Fulton Business Radio
01:23 Introducing Morgan Rogers: Alpharetta’s “Minister of Fun”
01:48 Exploring Alpharetta’s Parks, Recreation, and Cultural Services
04:56 Morgan Rogers: A Lifetime in Recreation and Parks
07:45 Alpharetta’s Commitment to Greenspace and Community Connectivity
12:40 Revamping Wacky World: A Community-Built Playground
17:04 Bond Projects and Enhancements in Alpharetta
21:30 Alpharetta: A Music City with a Plan
26:14 Innovative Programs and Future Plans
30:43 Closing Remarks and Resources

About North Fulton Business Radio and host John Ray

With over 760 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 studio address is 275 South Main Street, Alpharetta, GA 30009.

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

Addressing the Workforce Housing Crisis in North Fulton, with Jack Murphy and Nancy Diamond, North Fulton Improvement Network

April 10, 2024 by John Ray

North Fulton Business Radio

Addressing the Workforce Housing Crisis in North Fulton, with Jack Murphy and Nancy Diamond, North Fulton Improvement Network

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Addressing the Workforce Housing Crisis in North Fulton, with Jack Murphy and Nancy Diamond, North Fulton Improvement Network (North Fulton Business Radio, Episode 760)

This episode of North Fulton Business Radio featured guests Jack Murphy and Nancy Diamond from the North Fulton Improvement Network. Jack and Nancy joined host John Ray to discuss the pressing issue of workforce housing, namely, affordable housing for essential workers, in North Fulton. The North Fulton Improvement Network started its work as the North Fulton Poverty Task Force, and evolved its focus towards addressing the broader economic development issue of accessible housing for those earning middle incomes, including teachers, nurses, and public officers. The dialogue also touched upon how this housing crisis impacts local schools, healthcare, and the overall economic development of North Fulton. Jack and Nancy emphasized the importance of community awareness, the role of government, private sector, and non-profit collaboration in addressing the issue, as well as potential solutions like changes in zoning laws and engaging the faith community in housing projects. The episode is a call to action for North Fulton residents and businesses to acknowledge and work on solutions for the workforce housing shortage.

To view the Future First: North Fulton Summit held on February 20, 2024, mentioned during the show, follow this link.

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.

North Fulton Improvement Network

In 2014, a group of nonprofit and community leaders joined forces as the North Fulton Poverty Task Force to focus on raising awareness for the needs of those living and working in the community who experience financial vulnerability. However, as our research demonstrated that living in our region is challenging at multiple income levels — including those well above poverty — we renamed our organization the North Fulton Improvement Network. Now, we are a think tank that gathers research, resources, and perspectives on the interconnected issues impacting our community.

The North Fulton Improvement Network serves as a platform to provide education on the reality of living in North Fulton County and to bring together resources that currently address financial vulnerability. We are a network made up of the whole community — businesses, stakeholders, nonprofits, faith-based organizations, political leaders, and the general public. With a central belief that we need all hands on deck to address these systemic issues, NFIN works to make North Fulton a thriving, equitable, and affordable community.

NFIN serves the six cities that comprise Georgia’s North Fulton region: Alpharetta, Johns Creek, Milton, Mountain Park, Roswell, and Sandy Springs. We center our work on five main areas— 1) workforce housing, (2) income and employment, (3) transportation, (4) child well-being, and (5) food insecurity. All of these aspects of community both impact and are impacted by financial vulnerability. By supporting innovative private and public solutions that address one or more of these fields, we believe that we can build a North Fulton that is thriving and prosperous for all community members.

Jack Murphy

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

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

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

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

Nancy Diamond

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

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

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

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

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

Topics Discussed in this Episode

00:00 Welcome to North Fulton Business Radio
01:23 Introducing Jack Murphy and Nancy Diamond from North Fulton Improvement Network
01:56 The Mission of North Fulton Improvement Network: Addressing Workforce Housing
03:02 From Poverty Task Force to Housing Focus: The Evolution of the North Fulton Improvement Network
04:17 The Economic and Social Impact of Workforce Housing
06:11 Understanding Affordable Housing: Definitions and Implications
07:50 Why Workforce Housing Matters to North Fulton
08:50 Challenges and Solutions in Affordable Housing
11:20 The Role of Government and Economic Development in Housing
18:42 Private Enterprise and Housing Solutions
20:46 The Impact of Housing on Schools and Communities
22:37 Exploring the Shift in Neighborhood Dynamics
23:21 The Housing Industry Disruption and Generational Preferences
24:38 Addressing Teacher Housing Challenges
25:56 Collaborative Solutions for Housing and Community Improvement
35:02 The Role of Faith-Based Organizations in Affordable Housing
37:09 Engaging Businesses and Communities in Housing Solutions
41:48 Closing Remarks and Resources for Further Engagement

About North Fulton Business Radio and host John Ray

With over 750 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 studio address is 275 South Main Street, Alpharetta, GA 30009.

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

Celebrating an Award-Winning North Fulton Franchisee, with Gloria Mattei and Sergio Pacheco, Nothing Bundt Cakes, Alpharetta/Milton and Sandy Springs

February 28, 2024 by John Ray

Nothing Bundt Cakes Sandy Springs Alpharetta Milton Roswell

North Fulton Studio

Celebrating an Award-Winning North Fulton Franchisee, with Gloria Mattei and Sergio Pacheco, Nothing Bundt Cakes, Alpharetta/Milton and Sandy Springs

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Celebrating an Award-Winning North Fulton Franchisee, with Gloria Mattei and Sergio Pacheco, Nothing Bundt Cakes, Alpharetta/Milton and Sandy Springs (GNFCC 400 Insider, Episode 92)

Host Kali Boatright welcomed Gloria Mattei and Sergio Pacheco, the award-winning owners of Nothing Bundt Cakes in Alpharetta/Milton and Sandy Springs to this edition of the GNFCC 400 Insider. During this insightful discussion, Gloria and Sergio shared their journey transitioning from the corporate world to franchise owners. Their perseverance and diligence helped them win the International Franchise Association’s recognition as a Franchisee of the Year in 2023 despite initial challenges, including receiving a rejection letter from their franchisor when they first applied. This couple also won a Circle of Honor award in 2023, given the top franchise in the Nothing Bundt Cakes system. The discussion further highlighted their active involvement in the Greater North Fulton Chamber of Commerce and other community initiatives, and their commitment as small business owners to provide high-quality service and opportunities to their employees and the community.

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®.

Gloria Mattei and Sergio Pacheco, Nothing Bundt Cakes, Alpharetta, Milton, Roswell, and Sandy Springs

Sergio Pacheco and Gloria Mattei, Nothing Bundt Cakes Sandy Springs — **Sergio Pacheco and Gloria Mattei, Nothing Bundt Cakes**

Gloria Mattei and Sergio Pacheco are the owners of Nothing Bundt Cakes Alpharetta, Milton, Roswell as well as a newly acquired store in Sandy Springs. Nothing Bundt Cakes reintroduces an old family favorite—the Bundt cake—with a light, moist taste and fresh, clean look that appeals to all ages. Each 8” and 10” Bundt cake features custom concept cake decorations that are smart, contemporary, and fun to enhance any occasion, large or small, in a wide range of cake flavors and sizes. Nothing Bundt Cakes celebrates the very heart of true hospitality, where all are welcome, and no one is a stranger. Each thoughtful detail of the experience, from the heartfelt welcome at the door to remembering the customer’s favorite flavor, has been naturally embraced at Nothing Bundt Cakes

Nothing Bundt Cakes is not in the cake business; they are in the “joy-giving” business. Their mission is to come up with unique, valuable solutions to every guest celebration need.

Their journey out of the corporate world and into entrepreneurship started when Gloria met the Nothing Bundt Cakes (NbC) brand back in 2010, during one of her many business trips to California. A friend from Texas who was very familiar with the brand introduced her. She came home to tell Sergio, her husband, “I think we found the business,” and her husband said, “Are you crazy? You don’t even cook!”

Her first thought after knowing the brand, was, “There is nothing like this in Georgia.” One year later, the first NbC store opened in Sandy Springs, and Sergio got to taste the product, at his own Christmas housewarming party. At that point, he said, “You are on to something. Let’s start the research process.” What started as simple franchise research in January 2011 resulted in the opening of the 2nd NbC store in Georgia, store number 83 for the franchise system. They opened their doors in December 2013. They just celebrated their 10th anniversary on December 13, 2023.

In March 2022, Gloria and Sergio were approved to open their second bakery. However, destiny and serendipity had other plans. Gloria had a strong relationship with the owner of the first store in GA (Sandy Springs), and that owner reached out to Gloria as soon as she was approved for her second bakery and said, “I want to retire, and I don’t want to sell to anyone but you.”

Gloria and Sergio expanded their market by taking over the Sandy Springs bakery in June 2022 and are now proud owners of bakery #1 and #2 in Georgia, proudly serving the GA 400 North Fulton Corridor.

Gloria, Sergio, and their NbC family are proud to bring joy to their community and truly live the experience of how “cake changes everything.” Gloria and Sergio opened their business with a big dream. That dream is their why: the dream of building a platform for her son, who is in the autistic community. He could either be able to perform in it or prove that he, and other kids like him, can function and have a role in the community.

Gloria and Sergio have seen their business grow not only as a platform for their son, but also for their daughter and many other individuals, including other special needs young adults in the community. That accomplishment is proudly the one they are most proud of.

Website

Topics Discussed in this Episode

00:00 Introduction to the GNFCC 400 Insider

00:31 Meet the Guests: Gloria Mattei and Sergio Pacheco

01:14 Journey from Corporate World to Franchise Ownership

02:42 The Birth of a Business Idea: Nothing Bundt Cakes

03:42 The Decision to Become Franchisees

06:00 The Unexpected Journey to Franchisee of the Year

06:26 The Circle of Honor and Franchisee of the Year Awards

11:23 Reflections on Success and Perseverance

12:30 The Initial Rejection and Determination

13:09 Finding a New Path to Business Ownership

14:27 The Importance of Small Businesses

15:01 Challenges Faced by Franchise Owners

15:58 The Impact of Economic Fluctuations on Small Businesses

About GNFCC and The GNFCC 400 Insider

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.

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.

Revitalizing an Iconic Alpharetta Landmark, with Jacqueline Welch, Wills Park Equestrian Foundation

February 23, 2024 by John Ray

North Fulton Business Radio

Revitalizing an Iconic Alpharetta Landmark, with Jacqueline Welch, Wills Park Equestrian Foundation

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Revitalizing an Iconic Alpharetta Landmark, with Jacqueline Welch, Wills Park Equestrian Foundation (North Fulton Business Radio, Episode 745)

On this episode of North Fulton Business Radio, John Ray welcomed Jacqueline Welch of the Wills Park Equestrian Foundation. Jacqueline discussed the history of the Wills Park Equestrian Center, its impact, and the public-private partnership between the Foundation and the City of Alpharetta to revitalize the Center. Jacqueline also addressed the Foundation’s aim to raise $5 million to match city funding for renovations, the facility’s ability to attract bigger, more involved horse shows after the planned upgrades, and the different ways the community can get involved, from attending annual fundraising events to providing donations. The revitalization project not only preserves an important community asset but also significantly impacts the local economy. The economic impact of the Wills Park Equestrian Center is currently estimated at $4.8 million annually, and planned upgrades would increase that impact even further.

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.

Jacqueline Welch, Director of Development and Operations, Wills Park Equestrian Foundation

Jacqueline Welch quickly fell in love with horses after moving to an Alpharetta farm at 11 years old. Within a year, she competed at the Wills Park Equestrian Center in her first horse show. Over the next ten years, she made countless life-long memories and learned many life lessons at Wills Park Equestrian Center. Jacqueline credits her love for horses as a crucial element in her development, as it taught her the power of patience, discipline, and the importance of establishing strong, trusting partnerships—skills that would later prove indispensable in the world of business.

Jacqueline obtained her B.S. in Business with a Sport Management concentration from Florida Gulf Coast University before returning to Alpharetta to work for the family business, where she was given opportunities to wear many hats. She was often given responsibilities she didn’t quite feel prepared for, but she prides herself on knowing that she will always figure them out.

In 2023, Jacqueline made the decision to combine her 15 years of business and hospitality experience with her passion for horses and fond admiration for the Wills Park Equestrian Center, and she accepted a full-time position with the Wills Park Equestrian Foundation, where she currently serves as the Director of Development and Operations.

Wills Park Equestrian Foundation

Wills Park Equestrian Center has been the heart of the north Atlanta horse community since its inception in the early ‘70s. Located on 50 acres of rolling fields and woods, the center currently includes a covered arena, two outdoor competition rings, more than 290 shed row stalls, two schooling rings, and a show office.

Each year, the center hosts multiple local and USEF rated horse shows, as well as dog shows, reining shows, an annual rodeo, and other community activities.

Wills Park Equestrian Center is one of the few equestrian facilities remaining that is located in a thriving suburb of a major metropolitan city. It has become a well-loved hub for equestrians from across the Southeast. Yet as the center has grown in usage over the past five decades, the horse show industry has grown and evolved.

By upgrading the center’s infrastructure, the Foundation can ensure that this unique facility can continue to serve the equestrian community, the City of Alpharetta, and the citizens of north Metro Atlanta for years to come.

Website | Facebook | Instagram | LinkedIn

Topics Discussed in this Episode

00:00 Introduction and Welcome

01:18 Welcoming Jacqueline Welch from Wills Park Equestrian Foundation

01:31 Overview of Wills Park Equestrian Foundation

02:43 The History and Impact of Wills Park Equestrian Center

04:52 The Role of the Equestrian Center in the Community

06:54 The Need for Revitalization and the Partnership with the City

10:03 Fundraising Efforts and Community Involvement

13:48 The Economic Impact of the Wills Park Equestrian Center

16:33 Future Plans and Opportunities

20:17 Conclusion and Contact Information

21:22 Final Remarks and Acknowledgements

About North Fulton Business Radio and host John Ray

With over 740 shows and having featured over 1,100 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 studio address is 275 South Main Street, Alpharetta, GA 30009.

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

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

Paul Zanardo, Zanardo Dezignz, LLC, and Sheldon Guan, Pro Computer

October 16, 2023 by John Ray

Family Business Radio

Paul Zanardo, Zanardo Dezignz, LLC, and Sheldon Guan, Pro Computer

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Paul Zanardo, Zanardo Dezignz, LLC, and Sheldon Guan, Pro Computer (Family Business Radio, Episode 49)

On this edition of Family Business Radio, host Anthony Chen was joined by two superb business owners, Paul Zanardo, Zanardo Dezignz, LLC, and Sheldon Guan, Pro Computer.

Paul talked with host Anthony Chen about how he got into the web design business, the services they offer, and mistakes business owners often make when trying to create their own websites. He also discussed recent changes in SEO, the need for alternative text, mobile design, recent features added to Wix, and much more.

Sheldon Guan, owner of Pro Computer, shared with Anthony about his experience in IT and moving from Canada in retail computer sales to an opportunity in Georgia. He discussed what kinds of repairs he can do to save a computer from the landfill, refurbishing machines, the resale machines he has available, other services he provides, and more.

Anthony posed a final question for Paul and Sheldon about the advice they would give their younger selves just starting out.

Anthony concluded the show with comments about finding the right professionals to assist with planning and needs beyond the business owner’s skillset.

Family Business Radio is underwritten and brought to you by Anthony Chen with Lighthouse Financial Network.

Zanardo Dezignz, LLC

Zanardo Dezignz LLC is the Lawrenceville-based professional service provider offering fully integrated digital branding solutions through website development, SEO, graphic design, printing, and digital marketing. Some of their clients include Above & Beyond Cabinetry LLC, K&J Mechanical, Joe Sells GA with Keller Williams, and Hickory’s Trail.

Website | Facebook | Instagram | LinkedIn | Twitter

Paul Zanardo, CEO / Founder, Zanardo Dezignz, LLC

Paul Zanardo is the CEO and founder of Zanardo Dezignz LLC. He has over 20 years of sales management and marketing experience at companies such as TruGreen and Luxottica with a proven track record of growth in the areas of marketing and new client revenue.

He excelled in these fields but often thought about how he could improve the overall customer experience and desired to spend more time with his family. After lots of prayer and soul searching, he decided to go back to school and get his degree in graphic design with a study in website development.

His company is now quickly approaching 8 years of serving his community as a professional service provider. His wife, Amy, is their lead graphic designer and content editor. She earned this position by helping him study for his degree and collaborating with him through the entire process. Their son Anthony is a sweet, creative 7-year-old that also aspires to own a creative business as well.

Pro Computer

Pro Computer was established in 2008, at Mall of Georgia, in Buford. Once expanded with a 2nd store in Cumming for 3 years. As the fast pace and continuous changes of computer industry, Pro Computer business scope keeps updating to adapt the market. What never changes is custom satisfaction focus by deliver value products and quality services.

Since 2023, Pro Computer renovated itself again, and relocated to Alpharetta, the center of IT, to be closer to the mass computer users. With 24×7 text service through business number 770-932-3020, quote request submission on website procmog.com, clients can save a trip to know how much it cost to repair the computers, and get quick help on urgent situation like liquid spill, suspicious onscreen browser webpage, computer error messages.

Website | LinkedIn

Sheldon Guan, PMP, Owner, Pro Computer

Sheldon has been owner of Pro Computer since 2008. After 15 years at Mall of Georgia in Buford, they moved to Alpharetta.

Sheldon has more than 29 years in the IT industry. When he emigrated to Canada, he began working in computer retail until he had the opportunity to start his own store in Georgia.

Sheldon is a certified PMP.

Anthony Chen, Host of Family Business Radio

**Anthony Chen, Lighthouse Financial, and Host of “Family Business Radio”**

This show is sponsored and brought to you by Anthony Chen with Lighthouse Financial Network. Securities and advisory services are offered through Royal Alliance Associates, Inc. (RAA), member FINRA/SIPC. RAA is separately owned and other entities and/or marketing names, products, or services referenced here are independent of RAA. 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 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 at familybusinessradioshow.com.

Chad Hagan, Hagan Capital Group and Author of Global Family Office Investing

August 29, 2023 by John Ray

Business Beat

Chad Hagan, Hagan Capital Group and Author of Global Family Office Investing

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Frazier & Deeter’s Business Beat: Chad Hagan, Hagan Capital Group and Author of Global Family Office Investing

Chad Hagan, founder of Hagan Capital Group and author of Global Family Office Investing, joined Business Beat and host Roger Lusby for a wide-ranging conversation about investing in the environment, his non-political definition of “environmentalism,” his views on the energy sector, the economy of the North Fulton region, and much more.

Business Beat is presented by Alpharetta CPA firm Frazier & Deeter and is produced by the North Fulton studio of Business RadioX®

Hagan Capital Group

Since the founding of Hagan Capital, the principals have advised on over $2,5 billion of transactions for funds, family offices, institutions, investment companies and wealthy individuals.

The partners are headquartered in metropolitan Atlanta, Georgia with affiliated partners and companies in New York, Florida, Canada, and England.

Company website | LinkedIn

Chad Hagan, Founder, Hagan Capital Group and Author, Global Family Office Investing

Chadwick Hagan is an author, investor, and entrepreneur.

He is a managing partner of Wessex Investments and the founder of Hagan Capital Group.

Over his career he has advised nearly $2 billion dollars in M&A transactions and investments; including managing funds with an average annual return of 30%; leading the takeover and bankruptcy recapitalisation efforts of American Apparel – then the largest vertically integrated apparel company in the US – and managing investments in consumer goods and energy commodities. He is an investor and company director for numerous commercial concerns, funds, and entities in the US and Europe.

His most recent book, Global Family Office Investing, was published by Palgrave in 2021, and his economics blog, Chaganomics.com, was archived by US Library of Congress Economics Blogs Web Archive. He is an opinion columnist and has written for The Epoch Times, Fox Business, and ArtNews.

He is a director for the Hagan Family Foundation, founded by his father in the 1990s, where he focuses on fiscal policy, environmentalism, and art history.

Chad studied economics at Harvard and the London School of Economics. He married Emily Wheeler in 2008 and lives in Metropolitan Atlanta. He enjoys skiing, tennis and producing documentaries in his spare time.

LinkedIn | Twitter

Frazier & Deeter

The Alpharetta office of Frazier & Deeter is home to a thriving CPA tax practice, a growing advisory practice and an Employee Benefit Plan Services group. CPAs and advisors in the Frazier & Deeter Alpharetta office serve clients across North Georgia and around the country with services such as personal tax planning, estate planning, business tax planning, business tax compliance, state and local tax planning, financial statement reviews, financial statement audits, employee benefit plan audits, internal audit outsourcing, cyber security, data privacy, SOX and other regulatory compliance, mergers, and acquisitions and more. Alpharetta CPAs serve clients ranging from business owners and executives to large corporations.

Roger Lusby, host of Frazier & Deeter’s Business Beat, is an Alpharetta CPA and Alpharetta Office Managing Partner for Frazier & Deeter. He is also a member of the Tax Department in charge of coordinating tax and accounting services for our clientele. His responsibilities include a review of a variety of tax returns with an emphasis in the individual, estate, and corporate areas. Client assistance is also provided in the areas of financial planning, executive compensation and stock option planning, estate and succession planning, international planning (FBAR, SFOP), health care, real estate, manufacturing, technology, and service companies.

You can find Frazier & Deeter on social media:

LinkedIn | Facebook | Twitter

An episode archive of Frazier & Deeter’s Business Beat can be found here.

John Hipes, Hipes & Belle Isle, LLC, and Councilman, City of Alpharetta

June 27, 2023 by John Ray

North Fulton Business Radio

John Hipes, Hipes & Belle Isle, LLC, and Councilman, City of Alpharetta

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North Fulton Business Radio, Episode 675)

John Hipes, attorney and owner of Hipes & Belle Isle, LLC, was the guest on this episode of North Fulton Business Radio. He and host John Ray talked about the firm and its evolution, how he prepares clients for litigation, legal success stories, why he serves on the Alpharetta City Council, what makes Alpharetta such a superb place to work, live, and play, and much more.

North Fulton Business Radio is broadcast from the North Fulton studio of Business RadioX® inside Renasant Bank in Alpharetta.

Hipes & Belle Isle, LLC

Hipes & Belle Isle, LLC provides expert legal assistance, advice, and representation to businesses of all sizes.

Their attorneys have the experience, knowledge and judgment to handle your legal matters and protect your company’s interests to the fullest extent of the law. They have highly skilled, ethical and successful negotiators, courtroom litigators, real-estate experts and business advisors who provide prompt, aggressive and reasonably priced legal services.

When a complex legal question demands knowledge and experience in several areas, Hipes & Belle Isle offers single-source convenience by providing legal services in:

Business Litigation
Commercial Real Estate Law
Construction Law
Employment Law
Insurance Law

At Hipes & Belle Isle, they are also proud of their success and standing within the legal, professional and civic communities. They look forward to even greater achievements as they meet and address the legal challenges of our rapidly evolving society, but most importantly we look forward to serving you with experience, expertise and integrity.

Website| LinkedIn | Facebook| Twitter

John Hipes, Attorney and Owner, Hipes & Belle Isle, LLC

John Hipes is from Muncie, Indiana. He received his B.A. cum laude from Wake Forest University (Winston-Salem, North Carolina) in 1981 and his J.D. magna cum laude from Georgia State College of Law (Atlanta) in 1988, where he served as senior editor for the Georgia State University Law Review. He authored Abusive Litigation in Georgia, Georgia State Univ. L. Rev., Vol. 3, 1987.

John has practiced law for 33 years. He began his law practice in 1988 with Smith, Gambrell & Russell LLP and then with Morris, Manning & Martin (both in Atlanta) before forming Hipes & Norton, P.C. (Alpharetta) in 1996. In 2004, John helped to form Bach, Dewberry & Hipes, LLC (Alpharetta). In 2013, John founded Hipes & Belle Isle, LLC.

John practices commercial litigation, including insurance coverage and interpretation, construction, real estate, employment, partnership and shareholder disputes, and tort and injury law. He has successfully resolved and tried numerous lawsuits on behalf of residential and commercial policyholders, including issues involving bad faith, unfair claims practices, fraud, arson, theft, cancellation procedures, protective safeguard endorsements, and coverage interpretation.

John is a member of the State Bar of Georgia. He is admitted to practice in all Georgia courts, including State and Superior, the Georgia Court of Appeals, and the Georgia Supreme Court. He is also admitted in the United States District Court, Northern District of Georgia and the United States Court of Appeals, Eleventh Circuit. John is a Past-President of the North Fulton Bar Association for 2011-2012.

John is an Alpharetta City Councilman and liaison to the Alpharetta Public Safety Department and the Alpharetta Municipal Court. He has been an active member of the Rotary Club of Alpharetta since 1997, served as President in 2008-2009, and was founder of the Alpharetta Memorial Day Tribute. He serves on the boards of North Fulton Community Charities and the Alpharetta Public Safety Foundation. John previously served on the Alpharetta Planning Commission, the Board and Executive Committee of the Greater North Fulton Chamber of Commerce, and the Board of the Ed Isakson Alpharetta YMCA. He is a member of the Leadership North Fulton Class of 2000, Alpharetta Chamber of Commerce, and Alpharetta Business Association.

John is an active member of the Alpharetta First United Methodist Church. He has participated in many humanitarian and mission trips to Africa, Central and South America with Rotary and AFUMC. John resides in Alpharetta with his wife Karen.

Questions and Topics in this Interview:

Overview of Hipes & Belle Isle legal practice
Legal success stories
Community involvement
Why Alpharetta is a great place to operate a business
What’s happening in Alpharetta and what lies ahead

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

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

Since 2000, Office Angels® has been restoring joy to the life of small business owners, enabling them to focus on what they do best. At the same time, we honor and support at-home experts who wish to continue working on an as-needed basis. Not a temp firm or a placement service, Office Angels matches a business owner’s support needs with Angels who have the talent and experience necessary to handle work that is essential to creating and maintaining a successful small business. Need help with administrative tasks, bookkeeping, marketing, presentations, workshops, speaking engagements, and more? Visit us at https://officeangels.us/.

Executive Search and Custom Software Development, with Tino Mantella, President, Retained, and CSO, Relevantz (North Fulton Business Radio, Episode 785)

Tino Mantella, President, Retained, and CSO, Relevantz

Topics Discussed in this Episode

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

About North Fulton Business Radio and host John Ray

GNFCC 2024 Nonprofit Award Winners: The Drake House and Brewable (GNFCC 400 Insider, Episode 96)

Nesha Mason, President, The Drake House

Nicky Rudd, Board President, Brewable

Topics Discussed in this Episode

About GNFCC and The GNFCC 400 Insider

Fun, Greenspace, and the Arts in Alpharetta, with Morgan Rodgers, Director of Recreation, Parks, and Cultural Services, City of Alpharetta (North Fulton Business Radio, Episode 764)

Morgan Rodgers, Director of Recreation, Parks, and Cultural Services, City of Alpharetta

Topics Discussed in this Episode

About North Fulton Business Radio and host John Ray

Addressing the Workforce Housing Crisis in North Fulton, with Jack Murphy and Nancy Diamond, North Fulton Improvement Network (North Fulton Business Radio, Episode 760)

North Fulton Improvement Network

Jack Murphy

Nancy Diamond

Topics Discussed in this Episode

About North Fulton Business Radio and host John Ray

Celebrating an Award-Winning North Fulton Franchisee, with Gloria Mattei and Sergio Pacheco, Nothing Bundt Cakes, Alpharetta/Milton and Sandy Springs (GNFCC 400 Insider, Episode 92)

Gloria Mattei and Sergio Pacheco, Nothing Bundt Cakes, Alpharetta, Milton, Roswell, and Sandy Springs

Topics Discussed in this Episode

About GNFCC and The GNFCC 400 Insider

Revitalizing an Iconic Alpharetta Landmark, with Jacqueline Welch, Wills Park Equestrian Foundation (North Fulton Business Radio, Episode 745)

Jacqueline Welch, Director of Development and Operations, Wills Park Equestrian Foundation

Wills Park Equestrian Foundation

Topics Discussed in this Episode

About North Fulton Business Radio and host John Ray

Paul Zanardo, Zanardo Dezignz, LLC, and Sheldon Guan, Pro Computer (Family Business Radio, Episode 49)

Zanardo Dezignz, LLC

Paul Zanardo, CEO / Founder, Zanardo Dezignz, LLC

Pro Computer

Sheldon Guan, PMP, Owner, Pro Computer

Anthony Chen, Host of Family Business Radio

Frazier & Deeter’s Business Beat: Chad Hagan, Hagan Capital Group and Author of Global Family Office Investing

Hagan Capital Group

Chad Hagan, Founder, Hagan Capital Group and Author, Global Family Office Investing

Frazier & Deeter

John Hipes, Hipes & Belle Isle, LLC, and Councilman, City of Alpharetta (North Fulton Business Radio, Episode 675)

Hipes & Belle Isle, LLC

John Hipes, Attorney and Owner, Hipes & Belle Isle, LLC

Questions and Topics in this Interview:

Our Mission

Sponsor a Show

Partner With Us

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North Fulton Business Radio, Episode 675)