JD Mealor on Leadership, Local Banking, and Building Stronger Businesses in North Georgia
In this compelling episode of North Georgia Business Radio, host Phil Bonelli welcomes back longtime friend, mentor, and accomplished banking leader JD Mealor, Division President of Cadence Bank for North and Central Georgia. Together, they deliver a rich, insightful conversation about leadership, personal growth, and the evolving landscape of community banking.
Phil opens with personal stories that illustrate JD’s authenticity and ability to instill confidence—two cornerstones of effective leadership. From praying over tacos at their first lunch meeting to empowering team members through belief and support, JD’s leadership style shines as both principled and profoundly human.
A central theme throughout the episode is the power of leaning into individual strengths. JD shares how modern businesses—and especially banks—can thrive by focusing on what people do best rather than trying to “fix” weaknesses. This approach, he explains, builds stronger teams and better results.
JD also provides an inside look at his role at Cadence Bank, where he oversees commercial, retail, and business banking across Gainesville, Athens, and Augusta. He emphasizes that local leadership, not just local credit decisions, is what sets Cadence apart. With $50 billion in assets and the flexibility of a large bank combined with a community-centered ethos, Cadence offers both scale and a local touch.
Listeners will appreciate the candid discussion on the current banking climate: the shortage of new commercial bankers, how businesses can better access capital, and why a solid balance sheet is a strategic weapon. JD and Phil stress the importance of knowing your numbers and fostering open, honest relationships with your banker. If your banker isn’t asking great questions or offering fresh ideas, it may be time to find one who does.
For business owners, aspiring leaders, or anyone navigating today’s complex financial landscape, this episode is a treasure trove of wisdom. JD Mealor is more than a banker—he’s a builder of people, partnerships, and community. Tune in and discover why leadership, local insight, and meaningful connections still make all the difference.
Connect with JD and The Cadence Team:
Connect with Phil Bonelli:
https://www.facebook.com/Hopewell-Farms-GA-105614501707618/
https://www.instagram.com/hopewellfarmsga/
https://www.hopewellfarmsga.com/
Connect with Beau Henderson:
https://www.facebook.com/RichLifeAdvisors
https://www.facebook.com/NorthGARadioX
This Segment Is Brought To You By Our Amazing Sponsors
Hopewell Farms GA
Roundtable Advisors
RichLife Advisors
Cadence Bank
Highlights of the Show:
00:30 – 02:10
Phil shares the first story about meeting JD Mealor—praying over lunch—and how JD’s authenticity made a lasting impact.
02:14 – 03:36
Phil explains how JD’s belief in his abilities helped him grow professionally, contrasting this with a former boss who lacked confidence-building skills.
03:36 – 06:05
JD discusses the importance of leaning into people’s strengths rather than trying to fix weaknesses—a lesson from both leadership and recruiting.
06:05 – 08:00
An anecdote about how what we say matters, including a heartfelt story of choosing words that empower instead of diminish.
08:41 – 09:20
JD emphasizes that action leads to motivation—not the other way around—especially in sales and leadership.
10:26 – 13:50
Discussion on how commercial banker training pipelines have disappeared, the implications for banking, and JD’s decision to join Cadence Bank.
13:50 – 17:00
JD breaks down the unique needs and strengths of Gainesville, Athens, and Augusta banking markets—and how Cadence reflects those communities.
21:56 – 24:41
JD and Phil explain why banks often lend only when you don’t “need” it, and how to be prepared with solid financials and clear intent.
27:23 – 29:34
The importance of sending narratives along with financial statements to your banker—don’t let them interpret your story without context.
31:36 – 35:13
Phil and JD discuss balance sheets, why they matter, and how a strong one helps you weather storms and seize opportunities.
39:24 – 40:16
JD reflects on change, trust, and why relationships matter most in banking. Cadence Bank is a partner you can know, like, and trust.
