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GSU Student Journalist Zahra Pacheco Interviews John Ray

November 17, 2025 by John Ray

North Fulton Business Radio

GSU Student Journalist Zahra Pacheco Interviews John Ray

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GSU Student Journalist Zahra Pacheco Interviews John Ray (North Fulton Business Radio, Episode 913)

In this special episode of North Fulton Business Radio, the roles flip. Zahra Pacheco, a journalism student at Georgia State University and a team member of WRAS Album 88, the GSU radio station, transforms a class assignment into a live podcast interview with host John Ray.

Zahra talks about her path into journalism, her show Play It Again, and what she hopes to bring to the future of news and storytelling. She also reflects on growing up in the North Fulton business community as the daughter of Gloria Mattei and Sergio Pacheco, co-owners of Nothing Bundt Cakes; her “beanbag at the bakery” childhood; and what it was like to be the nervous teenager doing a 30-second pitch at an early morning chamber breakfast.

Then Zahra turns the questions on John. He shares how a corporate layoff led to his advisory practice, how North Fulton Business Radio got started, and why podcasting is less about ad revenue and more about relationships, community, and giving others a platform to tell their story.

John Ray is the host of North Fulton Business Radio. The show is produced by John Ray and North Fulton Business Radio, LLC, an affiliate of Business RadioX®, and is recorded inside Renasant Bank in Alpharetta.

Key Takeaways from This Episode

How Zahra is using GSU, Album 88, and her show Play It Again to build real-world journalism experience
What she learned growing up inside the North Fulton business community through Nothing Bundt Cakes and the Greater North Fulton Chamber of Commerce
How John’s layoff and career pivot led to both an advisory practice and the launch of North Fulton Business Radio
Why podcasting works best as a relationship and community builder instead of a quick play for ad revenue
How shows like North Fulton Business Radio gives business owners a platform to tell their story

Topics Discussed in this Episode

00:00 Introduction and Welcome to North Fulton Business Radio
00:37 Meet Zahra Pacheco
02:18 Zahra’s Background and Interests
03:56 The Journey into Journalism
07:57 John Ray’s Podcasting Journey
10:13 Career Transitions and Business Insights
11:15 Community Connections and Personal Stories
23:45 Words of Wisdom for Aspiring Podcasters
24:01 The Reality of Podcast Monetization
25:51 Building Relationships Through Podcasting
26:52 Favorite Podcast Episodes
32:02 Zahra’s Talk Show and Career Aspirations
38:58 Reflections on Family and Business
43:54 Closing Remarks and Promotions

Zahra Pacheco

Zahra Pacheco is a junior journalism major at Georgia State University and a member of WRAS Album 88, the GSU radio station. She serves as assistant promotions director and hosts Play It Again, a live talk show where she and her co-host create a new “mixtape” each week and often interview guests. Raised in the North Fulton business community as the daughter of Nothing Bundt Cakes co-owners Gloria Mattei and Sergio Pacheco, Zahra is blending her love of storytelling, radio, and dance as she builds a career in promotions and creative media work after graduation.

Renasant Bank supports North Fulton Business Radio

Renasant Bank has humble roots, starting in 1904 as a $100,000 bank in a Lee County, Mississippi, bakery. Since then, Renasant has become one of the Southeast’s strongest financial institutions, with over $26 billion in assets and more than 280 banking, lending, wealth management, and financial services offices throughout the region. All of Renasant’s success stems from the commitment of each banker to invest in the communities they serve, which helps them better understand the people. At Renasant Bank, their banking professionals understand you because they work and live alongside you every day.

Beyond Computer Solutions supports North Fulton Business Radio

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

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

Website | LinkedIn | Facebook | YouTube

About North Fulton Business Radio and host John Ray

With over 900 episodes and having featured over 1,400 guests, North Fulton Business Radio is the longest-running podcast in the North Fulton area, covering business in our community like no one else. We are the undisputed “Voice of Business” in North Fulton!

The show invites a diverse range of business, non-profit, and community leaders to share their significant contributions to their markets, communities, and professions. There’s no discrimination based on company size, and there’s never any “pay to play.” North Fulton Business Radio supports and celebrates businesses by sharing positive stories that traditional media ignore. Some media lean left. Some media lean right. We lean business.

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

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

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

You can find the complete archive of shows by following this link. The show is available on all the major podcast apps, including Apple Podcasts, Spotify, Google, Amazon, iHeart Radio, and many others.

John Ray also operates his own business advisory practice. John’s services include advising solopreneurs and small professional services firms on their value, their positioning and business development, and their pricing. His clients are professionals who are selling their expertise, such as consultants, coaches, attorneys, CPAs, accountants, bookkeepers, marketing professionals, and other professional services practitioners.

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

Alpharetta’s 2045 Comprehensive Plan: Why It Matters

November 6, 2025 by John Ray

North Fulton Studio

Alpharetta's 2045 Comprehensive Plan: Why It Matters

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Alpharetta’s 2045 Comprehensive Plan: Why It Matters (North Fulton Voices, Episode 14)

On this edition of North Fulton Voices, hosts Jack Murphy and Nancy Diamond sit down with Benjamin “Ben” Kern of MKSK Studios and Michael Woodman, Planning and Development Services Manager for the City of Alpharetta, to unpack Alpharetta’s 2045 Comprehensive Plan. This conversation explains what a comprehensive plan is and why it is relevant for everyday life in Alpharetta. You will hear how the plan sets the city’s long-range vision for land use, redevelopment, transportation, parks and greenways, housing, and economic development. The guests clearly distinguish between the plan and the zoning code: the plan establishes policy direction and a future land use map, while zoning serves as the legal tool to implement this vision when projects arrive.

Alpharetta is moving from a growth pattern defined by open land to one focused on redevelopment and reinvestment. The discussion covers how older commercial areas can be reimagined, why mixed-use nodes near jobs and services reduce congestion, and how the city evaluates proposals against the plan month in and month out. You will also learn how progress is tracked through a short-term work program and a formal Report of Accomplishments that keeps Alpharetta eligible for key regional and state funding.

Most importantly, the episode shows how residents and businesses can influence outcomes. Public input includes a steering committee, online surveys, and in-person sessions, with community meetings on Tuesday, November 11, 2025, at 12:00–1:00 p.m. and 5:00–6:30 p.m. at Alpharetta City Hall. Listen to understand the choices ahead and how to weigh in with feedback that leads to better projects, stronger neighborhoods, and a city that reflects the community’s shared priorities.

Learn more on the 2045 Alpharetta Comprehensive Plan updates website, and add your voice by completing the community survey on future city development priorities.

North Fulton Voices is presented by the North Fulton Improvement Network. The show series is proudly sponsored by John Ray Co. and North Fulton Business Radio, LLC.

Key Takeaways from This Episode

Plan vs. zoning, decoded: The comprehensive plan sets vision, goals, policies, and the future land use map. Zoning is the legal code that implements that vision when projects are proposed.
Future land use map matters: Staff and elected officials use the map every month to evaluate whether a proposal aligns with the city’s long-range direction before any rezoning is considered.
From greenfields to redevelopment: With little vacant land left, Alpharetta’s growth will come from reinvestment, infill, and reimagining aging commercial and office areas into mixed-use, walkable places.
Transportation is more than roads: The plan ties land use to mobility, aiming for safer local streets, strategic congestion relief, and better walking, biking, and trail connections between jobs, housing, and parks.
Housing mix and affordability tools: The update looks at diversifying housing types near services and employment to support workforce needs and reduce long commutes that strain the network.
Short-term work program and accountability: Progress is tracked through a Report of Accomplishments, which keeps Alpharetta eligible for key regional and state funding.
Public input shapes outcomes: Residents and businesses can influence priorities through surveys, a steering committee, and in-person sessions at City Hall. Thoughtful feedback can shift where, what, and how redevelopment happens.

Topics Discussed in this Episode

00:00 Introduction to North Fulton Voices
01:01 Comprehensive Plans: Importance and Current Updates
01:29 Regional Housing Data and Trends
02:54 Meet the Experts: Benjamin Kerr and Michael Woodman
04:23 Understanding Comprehensive Plans
10:44 Community Involvement and Vision for Alpharetta’s 2045 Comprehensive Plan
17:01 Challenges and Opportunities in Alpharetta
27:38 Future Plans and Community Engagement
34:57 Conclusion and Contact Information

Michael Woodman, Planning and Development Services Manager, City of Alpharetta

The Community Development Department for the City of Alpharetta guides the city’s growth and development to enhance the quality of life while respecting its historic and natural features. The department plays a key role in planning and implementing projects related to land use, economic development, housing, and community facilities, including Alpharetta’s 2045 Comprehensive Plan. It supports diverse housing options, pedestrian-friendly environments, mixed-use developments, and public infrastructure improvements. The department also engages with the community and private sector to ensure development aligns with community goals, including projects like downtown revitalization, greenways, and city-owned property consolidation for municipal offices. Overall, it focuses on sustainable growth, creating vibrant neighborhoods, and improving public access to city services.

Website

Benjamin Kern, Planner, MKSK Studios

MKSK Studios is a planning, urban design, and landscape architecture firm that partners extensively with municipalities to create vibrant, sustainable, and inclusive communities. They provide strategic master planning and design services that guide long-term improvements for municipal campuses, public parks, streetscapes, and civic spaces, with a strong focus on pedestrian connectivity, sustainable stormwater management, and adaptive reuse of existing city infrastructure. MKSK’s work for municipalities aims to enhance public engagement, strengthen community identity, and improve the quality of life through thoughtful, context-sensitive design that integrates social, environmental, and cultural values. Their projects often include comprehensive engagement efforts to ensure plans align with community needs while fostering equity and resilience in growing urban environments.

Website

North Fulton Improvement Network

The North Fulton Improvement Network (NFIN) is a think tank made up of community leaders from various sectors, focused on missing middle housing and the livability challenges confronting North Fulton. Its members come from the six cities constituting the northern half of Fulton County, Georgia—Alpharetta, Johns Creek, Milton, Mountain Park, Roswell, and Sandy Springs—and are working to address the widespread yet little-known financial vulnerability across the region. With stakeholders from sectors including business, nonprofit, faith, government, and citizens, NFIN centers their work on five areas of impact, seeks to educate the public about these issues, builds a network of individuals and organizations with innovative private and public solutions, and connects resources to those in need.

The leadership team of NFIN is Jack Murphy, Nancy Diamond, and Kathy Swahn.

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 professor 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 is currently the national SVDP chair of Systemic Change and Advocacy.

Jack received a BA in psychology from Belmont Abbey College and a M.Ed. from 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.

Sponsor for North Fulton Voices: John Ray and North Fulton Business Radio, LLC

The North Fulton Voices show series is proudly sponsored by John Ray Co. and the North Fulton affiliate of Business RadioX®.

John Ray is a podcast show host and producer and owns North Fulton Business Radio, LLC, the North Fulton (Georgia) affiliate of Business RadioX®.

John also operates his own business advisory practice, Ray Business Advisors. 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 author of the #1 nationally best-selling book, The Generosity Mindset: A Journey to Business Success by Raising Your Confidence, Value, and Prices.

John is the host of North Fulton Business Radio and The Price and Value Journey. North Fulton Business Radio, the longest-running podcast in the North Fulton region of Georgia, features a wide range of business and community leaders. The Price and Value Journey is devoted to solo and small-firm professional services providers and covers issues such as pricing, value, and business development.

Johns Creek: Number One Best U.S. City to Live In, with Mayor John Bradberry and Brian Lynam, Boston Scientific

June 4, 2025 by John Ray

North Fulton Studio

Johns Creek: Number One Best U.S. City to Live In, with Mayor John Bradberry and Brian Lynam, Boston Scientific

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Johns Creek: Number One Best U.S. City to Live In, with Mayor John Bradberry and Brian Lynam, Boston Scientific (GNFCC 400 Insider, Episode 107)

Join GNFCC CEO Kali Boatright in this episode of the GNFCC 400 Insider podcast as she chats with Johns Creek Mayor John Bradberry and Boston Scientific Senior Director Brian Lynam, discussing how Johns Creek earned the #1 ranking as the best place to live by US News & World Report out of 850 cities nationwide.

Learn about major developments transforming Johns Creek:

New boardwalk at Town Center creating a unique lakeside civic hub
Boston Scientific’s $100 million facility bringing 340 high-tech jobs
Medley mixed-use development opening October 2026
Johns Creek’s designation as Georgia’s first BioReady Community

Hear insights on economic development strategy, corporate community engagement, and what makes Johns Creek a premier destination for families and businesses in North Fulton’s thriving life sciences corridor.

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

Johns Creek Achieves National Recognition – Ranked #1 Best Place to Live by US News & World Report out of 850 US cities for exceptional value and quality of life.
Boston Scientific’s $100M Investment – New manufacturing facility creating 340 jobs in engineering, supply chain, and endoscopy equipment production.
Innovative Boardwalk Project – Unique lakeside amphitheater and 15-foot walkway around city hall creating a premier entertainment venue.
Medley Mixed-Use Development – Major retail and residential project opening October 29, 2026, completing Johns Creek’s town center vision.
Corporate Community Engagement – Boston Scientific actively participates in local chambers and community volunteer programs, setting an engagement model.
Life Sciences Hub Strategy – Positioning as Georgia’s first BioReady Community attracts major companies like Boehringer Ingelheim to North Fulton.

Topics Discussed in this Episode

00:00 Introduction to the GNFCC 400 Insider podcast
00:49 Meet the Guests: Mayor John Bradberry and Brian Lynam
03:52 Johns Creek: A Top Place to Live
05:07 The New Boardwalk at Town Center
09:55 Boston Scientific’s Impact on Johns Creek
13:44 BioReady Designation and Future Developments
16:14 Introduction to Animal Life Sciences in Johns Creek
16:38 Community Engagement and Business Friendliness
17:17 Medley Development and Economic Impact
19:51 Excitement for the New Town Center
24:09 Boston Scientific’s Community Involvement
26:18 Future Vision for Johns Creek and North Fulton
30:51 Contact Information and Closing Remarks

Mayor John Bradberry, City of Johns Creek

John Bradberry and his wife, Christy, grew up in Sandy Springs. After college, they settled in the North Fulton area in what would later become Johns Creek. When Johns Creek was incorporated in 2006, John, like many other residents, felt that the new city offered its citizens the kind of protection and local control of policies and expenditures that would benefit the citizens directly.

When John married in 2003, they moved into their house in Johns Creek, where he served as the homeowners association (HOA) president of his neighborhood. Through that HOA role, John became increasingly aware of Johns Creek’s challenges and its newly formed government. He began attending City Council meetings and got involved in the Johns Creek Community Association. As a citizen, John started Preserve Johns Creek, a group dedicated to protecting its residential character and quality of life.

Before he was elected Mayor, John served four years as a City Council Member for Post 3. John was elected as Mayor in November 2021. His message for his campaign included three important priorities: Safety First, Building Greater Community, and Forward Together.

John is a graduate of the University of Georgia (UGA) with a BBA in Management Information Systems. He has a landscape design business as well as other business interests, mainly in real estate. John is a former United States Marine and a member of the Johns Creek Veterans Association. He has served on the board of One Johns Creek, a coalition dedicated to helping youth mental health and prevention of substance abuse. Christy attended Auburn University and is a pharmacist. Christy, John, and their daughter Gracie attend Northpoint Community Church.

Website

Brian Lynam, Boston Scientific

Brian Lynam is the Director of Operations and Site Lead at Boston Scientific in Atlanta, Georgia, where he oversees all aspects of site operations, manufacturing strategy, and continuous improvement initiatives. With more than 20 years of experience in the medical device and engineering sectors, Brian has held progressive leadership roles at Boston Scientific, including Senior Operations Manager and Senior Production Manager in both the United States and Ireland. His background includes significant expertise in engineering management, operational excellence, and cross-functional team leadership, contributing to Boston Scientific’s reputation for innovation and quality.

Brian holds a Bachelor of Engineering from Technological University Dublin and has completed advanced management programs at MIT Sloan School of Management and St. Cloud State University. Prior to joining Boston Scientific, he held key engineering and production positions at Johnson & Johnson and AMEC. Originally from Athlone, Ireland, Brian is also active in the Atlanta business community and maintains strong ties to his hometown. His leadership continues to drive Boston Scientific’s growth and operational success in the region.

About GNFCC and The GNFCC 400 Insider

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.

James Rouse of Voodoo Brewing on Craft Beer and Community

May 13, 2025 by John Ray

North Fulton Business Radio

James Rouse of Voodoo Brewing on Craft Beer and Community

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James Rouse of Voodoo Brewing on Craft Beer and Community (North Fulton Business Radio, Episode 871)

In this episode of North Fulton Business Radio, host John Ray welcomes James Rouse, co-owner of Voodoo Brewing Company in Roswell. James shares his remarkable journey from a career in corporate sales and brand licensing to launching a thriving brewpub built around craft beer, creative food, and strong community engagement.

He opens up about what inspired the leap, how military life shaped his resilience, and why he believes success in hospitality is about people first. James also discusses what makes Voodoo Brewing unique—from doors on the ceiling to beer-infused menu items—and how his team’s attention to service and comfort has earned them a loyal following and glowing reviews.

Whether you’re an aspiring entrepreneur, craft beer lover, or business owner seeking inspiration, this conversation is filled with practical lessons and heart.

James Rouse, Voodoo Brewing Co, Roswell, GA

James Rouse, along with his wife Betsy, owns Voodoo Brewing Co. in Roswell, GA.

Voodoo Brewing Co. is a vibrant brewpub located at 1010 Mansell Road, marking the brand’s first entry into the Georgia market and its 24th location nationwide. Open daily starting at 11 am, the Roswell outpost offers a dynamic experience that blends award-winning craft beers, handcrafted cocktails, and elevated pub fare in an eclectic, welcoming atmosphere.

The brewpub features 24 craft beers on tap, including Voodoo’s renowned artisan brews, as well as a menu of beer-infused dishes and classic pub favorites. Guests can also enjoy various craft cocktails and a full menu, with options for takeout or delivery. The space is designed to foster community, hosting regular events such as live music, trivia nights, and other gatherings that encourage local connection.

Voodoo Brewing Co. is independently and locally owned and operated in Roswell, reflecting the brand’s commitment to immersing each location in its local community with custom logos, locally inspired menus, and consistent local events. The Roswell location is pet- and child-friendly, offers outdoor seating, and accepts a wide range of payment options, including contactless methods.

Founded in 2005 in Meadville, PA, Voodoo Brewing Co. has grown into a globally recognized, employee-owned brand known for its quirky personality, passionate beer culture, and dedication to quality and community engagement. The Roswell brewpub continues this tradition, aiming to be a go-to destination for both craft beer enthusiasts and the broader Roswell community.

Website | Instagram | Facebook | Beer | Food

Topics Discussed in this Episode

00:00 Introduction and Welcome to North Fulton Business Radio
01:50 Meet James Rouse of Voodoo Brewing
02:10 James Rouse’s Background and Journey
05:44 The Birth of Voodoo Brewing
09:11 The Voodoo Brewing Experience
13:18 Challenges and Triumphs of Running a Brew Pub
17:35 Crafting the Perfect Menu
21:39 Unexpectedly Amazing Fish and Chips
22:19 Craft Beer Infusions in Menu Items
23:17 Signature Burgers and Unique Menu Items
24:27 Pizza and Pub Pretzels: Unusual Brew Pub Offerings
26:05 Diverse Beer Selection and Barrel-Aged Flights
31:12 Craft Cocktails and Community Engagement
35:29 Future Plans and Upcoming Events
38:11 Location, Reviews, and Final Thoughts

About North Fulton Business Radio and host John Ray

With over 860 shows and having featured over 1,300 guests, North Fulton Business Radio is the longest-running podcast in the North Fulton area, covering business in our community like no one else. We are the undisputed “Voice of Business” in North Fulton!

The show invites a diverse range of business, non-profit, and community leaders to share their significant contributions to their market, community, and profession. There’s no discrimination based on company size, and there’s never any “pay to play.” North Fulton Business Radio supports and celebrates businesses by sharing positive stories that traditional media ignore. Some media lean left. Some media lean right. We lean business.

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

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.

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.

Sharon Lee – Pinnacle Strategic Advisors

November 18, 2024 by Rose

North Georgia Business Radio

Sharon Lee - Pinnacle Strategic Advisors

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What are some of the biggest marketing challenges you’ve faced in your business, and how have you approached overcoming them?

Marketing is the lifeblood of any successful business, but it’s not just about shouting your message from the rooftops.

It’s about strategically presenting the value you offer to serve more people in an intentional way.

During this episode of North Georgia Business Radio, Phil Bonelli sits down with marketing maven Sharon Lee, the founder of Pinnacle Strategic Advisors, to explore the intricacies of effective marketing strategies.

Sharon brings a wealth of experience to the table, not only as a marketing consultant but also as the host of the IN-powered Women Podcast and a leader of Iron Forums for Women.

Her unique approach to marketing emphasizes relationship-building and storytelling, setting her apart in a field often focused solely on metrics and conversions.

This episode is a treasure trove of practical advice for businesses looking to elevate their marketing game.

Whether you’re a seasoned entrepreneur or just starting out, Sharon’s blend of strategic thinking and relationship-focused marketing offers a fresh perspective on how to connect with your audience and grow your business.

Listen in to gain insights that could transform your approach to marketing and business growth. Remember, effective marketing isn’t about following trends—it’s about creating genuine connections and delivering value consistently.

This Segment Is Brought To You By Our Amazing Sponsors

Hopewell Farms GA

Roundtable Advisors

RichLife Advisors

Regions Bank

Highlights Of The Show

00:03:40 – Strategy First
Sharon emphasizes the importance of starting with a marketing strategy before delving into specific marketing channels. Quality over quantity is highlighted, with a focus on building meaningful relationships with the audience.

00:08:03 – Networking and Empowerment
Sharon discusses her passion for empowering women in male-dominated industries, highlighting her networking group and the Empowered Women podcast. The conversation touches on the importance of lifting women up in business and sharing their diverse experiences.

00:10:03 – Thanksgiving Sponsorship and Recap
Phil Bonelli promotes a local farm’s pasture-raised turkey for Thanksgiving. The segment ends with a brief recap of the topics discussed and an invitation to listen to the rest of the podcast.

00:14:00 – Building a Successful Business
Sharon shares a story of a woman who built and sold her business, emphasizing the importance of working on the business, not just in it.

00:15:37 – Iron Forums for Women
Sharon discusses her involvement in Iron Forums for Women, a Christian-oriented community focused on leadership and personal growth, emphasizing the value of like-minded, driven women coming together to support each other.

00:19:28 – Empowering Women
Sharon highlights her passion for lifting up women and empowering them to achieve success, both in business and in life, and shares her experience of starting a new women’s group through Iron Forums.

00:21:29 – Marketing Mistakes to Avoid
Sharon emphasizes the importance of going back to basics in marketing, such as segmenting the audience and maintaining a consistent message. She also discusses the long-term nature of marketing and the need for a clear strategy.

00:27:13 – Marketing Strategy and ROI
Sharon and the host discuss the importance of a cohesive marketing strategy, including tracking ROI and understanding the cumulative impact of different marketing channels. Sharon also emphasizes the need for a marketing budget and clear tracking of results.

00:28:12 – Importance of Tracking and Decision Making
Sharon Lee emphasizes the importance of tracking conversion rates and using the data to make informed decisions about where to allocate marketing dollars. She advises against trying to be an expert in every aspect of business and encourages hiring experts for specialized tasks.

00:29:31 – Starting Small and Scaling
Sharon Lee highlights the importance of starting small and focusing on low-hanging fruit for quick wins, especially for businesses with small budgets. She suggests reinvesting profits into marketing to gradually scale and expand the business.

00:30:58 – Strategic Marketing and Audience Targeting
The conversation delves into the pitfalls of disjointed marketing efforts and the importance of audience targeting. Sharon Lee emphasizes the need for a strategic plan and assessing whether certain marketing channels align with the target demographic.

00:32:09 – Leveraging Numbers and Discipline
The discussion touches on the significance of leveraging numbers in business decisions and the discipline required to achieve freedom in time management. Both Phil and Sharon stress the importance of planning and intentionality in balancing multiple responsibilities.

00:33:28 – Balancing Business and Family
Sharon Lee shares insights into how she balances her diverse responsibilities as a business owner and mother of two teenage boys. She emphasizes the need for intentional planning and adapting to changing priorities while maintaining a disciplined approach to time management.

LIVE from the GNFCC 2022 Women in Leadership Summit: Gloria Mattei, Nothing Bundt Cakes

November 15, 2022 by John Ray

North Fulton Business Radio

LIVE from the GNFCC 2022 Women in Leadership Summit: Gloria Mattei, Nothing Bundt Cakes

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LIVE from the GNFCC 2022 Women in Leadership Summit: Gloria Mattei, Nothing Bundt Cakes (North Fulton Business Radio, Episode 569)

Gloria Mattei, Owner of two Nothing Bundt Cakes stores in North Fulton, joined North Fulton Business Radio host John Ray LIVE from the GNFCC 2022 Women in Leadership Summit. They talked about the growth of her Nothing Bundt Cakes business, community engagement, the Women INfluencing Business Committee, the Summit itself, and much more.

This show was originally broadcast live from the GNFCC 2022 Women in Leadership Summit held at The Commons at Phase in Alpharetta, Georgia.

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

Gloria Mattei, Owner, Nothing Bundt Cakes

Gloria Mattei is the Owner 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.

Website

GNFCC 2022 Women in Leadership Summit, presented by the Women INfluencing Business Committee

The 2022 Women in Leadership Summit, organized by the Women INfluencing Business Committee of the Greater North Fulton Chamber of Commerce, was held on November 2, 2022, at the Commons at Phase in Alpharetta, Georgia.

Powered by the Greater North Fulton Chamber of Commerce (GNFCC), the Women INfluencing Business Committee strives to engage female leaders and enhance the standing of professional women within the community. Its annual awards program recognizes women with exceptional vision who have implemented innovative ideas in both the workplace and community and who inspire others.

Website

Questions and Topics in the Interview

Nothing Bundt Cakes
Community Engagement
Women INfluencing Business Committee
Women in Leadership Summit

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 grown to 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/.

Alpharetta Tech Talk: Ron Freeman, ITsimple

May 4, 2020 by John Ray

Alpharetta Tech Talk

Alpharetta Tech Talk: Ron Freeman, ITsimple

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“Alpharetta Tech Talk,” Episode 15: Ron Freeman, ITsimple

In a time of pandemic, where local information is vital, ITsimple’s solutions for community engagement and connection are shining. ITsimple Founder Ron Freeman joins the show to discuss his company’s work. The host of “Alpharetta Tech Talk” is John Ray and this series is the show is produced virtually by the North Fulton studio of Business RadioX® in Alpharetta.

Ron Freeman, Founder and CEO, ITsimple

ITsimple, founded by Ron Freeman, connects smart local governments with their communities. Powered by a cloud-based SaaS content management system, their civic engagement platform and mobile-friendly apps enable municipalities, counties, public-safety agencies, and convention visitor bureaus to harness the power of technology to communicate with their constituents in real-time.

ITSimple is an Alpharetta-based software startup and the creator of ITsMyTown City App. The company was founded based on a vision of “Simplifying People’s Everyday Life” and practicing a mission of “Connecting City and Community.”

The company’s first app was developed for the City of Alpharetta. Most recently, the company has rolled out an application for the City of South Fulton.

Find out more at their website, or call (470) 223-2260.

About “Alpharetta Tech Talk”

“Alpharetta Tech Talk” is the radio show/podcast home of the burgeoning technology sector in Alpharetta and the surrounding GA 400 and North Fulton area. We feature key technology players from a dynamic region of over 900 technology companies. “Alpharetta Tech Talk” comes to you from from the North Fulton studio of Business RadioX®.

Past episodes of “Alpharetta Tech Talk” can be found at alpharettatechtalk.com.

Renasant Bank has humble roots, starting in 1904 as a $100,000 bank in a Lee County, Mississippi, bakery. Since then, Renasant has grown to become one of the Southeast’s strongest financial institutions with approximately $12.9 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.