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GNFCC Local Councils: Milton’s 5th Year & Alpharetta Launch

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GNFCC Local Councils: Milton’s 5th Year & Alpharetta Launch (GNFCC 400 Insider, Episode 110)

In this episode of the GNFCC 400 Insider, host Kali Boatright, President & CEO of the Greater North Fulton Chamber, welcomes Jamie Bendall, Chair of the Milton Business Council, and Mary Trachian-Bradley, Chair of the new Alpharetta Business Council.

Jamie reflects on the Milton Business Council’s five-year journey, how it has grown, and what makes it unique in fostering both community identity and business growth. Mary introduces the vision behind the launch of the Alpharetta Business Council in July 2025, sharing why now was the right moment and how intentional planning has set it up for success.

The conversation explores how the councils reflect the unique character of their cities, the importance of member-driven programming, and the balance between regional impact and hyperlocal engagement. It also highlights the councils’ role in advocacy, innovation, and creating space for small businesses and entrepreneurs. Along the way, listeners hear stories of signature events, future priorities, and even a few lighter moments, including a lively exchange about tacos and hang gliding!

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

Key Takeaways from This Episode

The Milton Business Council has grown into a thriving five-year-old model for how local councils can succeed within a regional chamber.
The Alpharetta Business Council launched in July 2025 with an emphasis on intentional planning, strategic partnerships, and a clear vision for its members.
Each council reflects the unique identity of its city: Milton with its equestrian and community charm, and Alpharetta with its tech-forward, innovation-driven focus.
Councils create opportunities for business connection, advocacy, and engagement that complement regional chamber activities.
Human connection, local culture, and even small traditions like pop-up events and food favorites add depth to the professional relationships formed.

Topics Discussed in this Episode

00:00 Introduction to the GNFCC 400 Insider
00:46 Spotlight on Milton and Alpharetta Business Councils
01:02 Meet the Chairs: Jamie Bendall and Mary Trachian-Bradley
01:29 Jamie Bendall: Journey with Milton Business Council
03:05 Mary Trachian-Bradley: Launching Alpharetta Business Council
05:23 The Vision and Evolution of Milton Business Council
08:58 Alpharetta Business Council: Embracing a New Era
13:32 Unique Identities of Milton and Alpharetta
18:10 Future Prospects for Alpharetta Business Council
22:28 Benefits and Opportunities in 2026
22:58 Signature Events and Popups
24:12 The Importance of Member Feedback
24:38 Council Events and Networking
27:14 Success Metrics for Business Councils
29:06 Call for Board Member Nominations
31:34 Favorite Local Tacos
34:43 Closing Remarks and Contact Information

**Mary Trachian-Bradley and Jamie Bendall**

Mary Trachian-Bradley, Chair, Alpharetta Business Council

Mary Trachian-Bradley, on The GNFCC 400 Insider Podcast — **Mary Trachian-Bradley**

Mary Trachian-Bradley serves as the Chair of GNFCC’s Alpharetta Business Council.

Mary is a Senior Litigation Associate at Briskin, Cross & Sanford, LLC, with extensive trial experience. Mary specializes in litigation relating to all corporate law matters, including but not limited to FLSA claims, contract disputes, shareholder derivative actions, franchise law, landlord/tenant law, homeowner association law and all matters relating to partnerships and corporations.

Prior to joining Briskin, Cross & Sanford, Mary was a partner at the largest minority- and women-owned law firm in the country, focusing on a wide range of civil litigation cases. She has experience managing a team of associates and has chaired cases involving disputes over claims up to twenty-six million dollars. Her significant trial experience, coupled with her detailed understanding of complex transactional matters, allows Mary to firmly guide clients through business obstacles.

Mary received her law degree from the Florida International University College of Law, where she acted as Vice President of Moot Court and a Law Review Editor. Spending much of her free time giving back to the community, Mary is a proud foster parent and has been a dedicated Big Sister with the Big Brother Big Sister Foundation for twelve years. She is dedicated to sharing her passion and drive for justice, equality, and hope with the next generation.

Jamie Bendall, Chair, Milton Business Council

Jamie Bendall, on the GNFCC 400 Insider podcast — **Jamie Bendall**

Jamie serves as the Chair of GNFCC’s Milton Business Council.

Jamie is a seasoned comedian, attorney, and entrepreneur best known as the owner and managing partner of Atlanta’s legendary Punchline Comedy Club, widely regarded as one of the country’s top comedy destinations. With over thirty years as a professional performer, Bendall’s clean, observational style and quick wit have made him a sought-after host, corporate speaker, and panelist for major events and media outlets. In addition to his work on stage and television, he is a licensed lawyer admitted in Georgia, New York, and Massachusetts, focusing his practice on personal injury law and media representation.

Beyond comedy and the law, Jamie’s entrepreneurial ventures have spanned real estate, parking services, and team sports leagues, reflecting his versatility as a business leader. Throughout his career, he has produced thousands of comedy events, mentored young talent, and driven the Punchline’s growth. from relocating the club to expanding its brand and programming. As a father of three, community coach, and active volunteer, Bendall brings humor, professionalism, and strategic acumen to every role he holds.

About GNFCC and The GNFCC 400 Insider Podcast

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

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

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

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

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

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

Phoenix Business Radio

Michele Rebeor with Michele M Rebeor Consulting Dawn Hocking with The Centers for Habilitation and Anne Gill with Tempe Chamber of Commerce E8

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Michele Rebeor with Michele M Rebeor Consulting Dawn Hocking with The Centers for Habilitation and Anne Gill with Tempe Chamber of Commerce E8

During this episode of Collaborative Connections Radio Show and Podcast, a few common themes were echoed throughout the show. One important thing for people to understand is that building and sustaining relationships is the key to success for businesses and non-profits alike. We also all agreed that collaboration and communication will help pull us through these unprecedented times.

If you are a Tempe resident, business owner, leader in the community or have a passion for non-profits, check out this episode of Collaborative Connections Radio Show and Podcast hosted by Kelly Lorenzen, with KLM Consulting. Featured guests included Anne Gill, President of the Tempe Chamber of Commerce, Dawn Hocking, Development Director for The Center for Habilitation and Michele Rebeor, Fundraising and Philanthropy consultant.

Michele M Rebeor Consulting (MMRC) specializes in supporting nonprofits of all sizes, budgets and resources through the evaluation, identification and implementation of innovative practices that maximize their current and prospective donor relationships using meaningful and intentional philanthropic opportunities. Our guidance enhances a nonprofits current resources to build more deliberate practices that will garner increases in contributions, donor loyalty and sustainable giving. Additionally,

MMRC offers a unique and rare insight into the transformative role of women in philanthropy. Applying a decade of hands-on expertise we prepare, educate, and advance organizations to effectively establish and incorporate practices that recognize the significant role and substantial impact women have on the future of philanthropy.

Michele Rebeor has enthusiastically served the nonprofit sector for more than 28 yrs. as a development professional & consultant specializing in innovative practices to maximize donor relationships, with meaningful, intentional, realistic, efficient & sustainable strategies. She has also developed a rare, niche expertise in women focused philanthropy drawn from the passion, skill & success she discovered through a decade of leading female investors as the director of ASU Foundation’s Women & Philanthropy program.

Since 2016, through her own consulting firm and as the Arizona-based consultant for CCS Fundraising, Michele been coached clients of all sizes with customized services that encompass women-focused philanthropy, creating sustainable development and donor engagement strategies, as well as testing and advisement for capital campaigns; all resulting in new heights of engagement and contributions for non-profits.

Committed to her profession – she has been an active member in the Greater AZ Chapter of the Association of Fundraising Professionals (AFP) since 1998 and is currently serving on the Board and as the Chair of the AFP Professional Mentor Program. Additionally, she participates as a volunteer for the AZ Air National Guard’s 161st Air Refueling Wing Copperheads Care Family Support Program, a variety of animal programs and for the the annual Ironman Arizona.

Originally from Upstate New York, Michele has lived in Arizona since 1988. She is an Ironman triathlete, competitive rower, and avid animal lover. Hoyt, her long-time significant other is a Commanding Officer and refueling pilot for the Arizona Air National Guard. They enjoy international and local traveling whenever possible – especially taking their camper and dogs for off the grid excursions to simply enjoy the outdoors.

Connect with Michele on LinkedIn, Twitter and Facebook.

TCH is nonprofit which provides support for individuals with disabilities. Our mission is finding creative and innovative ways to provide hope and purpose for individuals with disabilities.

Dawn Hocking has been changing the lives of people with disabilities for 29 years.

As Director of Development she is responsible for community outreach, writes grants, and oversees volunteers to ensure individuals with disabilities live a full meaningful life.

She is a Relationship Builder, Advocate, Instigator of fun, Creative thinker, Resource connector, Mentor and graduate of Tempe Leadership Class XXVII.

Follow TCH on LinkedIn, Facebook and Twitter.

The Tempe Chamber serves as the voice of business, a catalyst for economic growth, and a champion for a strong community.

Anne Gill, IOM, is the President & CEO of the Tempe Chamber of Commerce. Anne is an innovative nonprofit leader recognized for her work in business advocacy, organizational excellence, development and community outreach.

Anne serves on the boards of the Western Association of Chamber Executives, Arizona Chamber Executives (Past Chair), Tempe Tourism Office, Tempe Leadership Council, Rio Salado Foundation, Friends of Public Radio Arizona, and Rio Salado College President’s Community Advisory Council.

Anne is a graduate of the US Chamber Foundation’s Institute for Organization Management, and recently completed their Business Leads Fellowship. She holds a B.A. in International Business.

Follow the Tempe Chamber on LinkedIn, Facebook, Twitter and Instagram.

About the Show

Kelly Lorenzen started the “Collaborative Connections” show to bring her clients and favorite charities together to meet each other, connect and collaborate in life and business. She hopes to build a stronger community one show at a time.

About Our Sponsor

KLM Consulting is a business concierge and project management firm. They help small business owners and non-profits build, brand and brag about their businesses.

About Your Host

Kelly Lorenzen, CEO of KLM Consulting, is an award-winning entrepreneur with over 15 years of business-ownership experience. She is also a certified project management professional.