John Ray Archives - Page 11 of 66

From Corporate to Calling: The Career Transition Blueprint with Rory Verrett

April 9, 2025 by John Ray

North Fulton Studio

From Corporate to Calling: The Career Transition Blueprint with Rory Verrett

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From Corporate to Calling: The Career Transition Blueprint with Rory Verrett (The Price and Value Journey, Episode 128)

What does it take to leave behind a successful corporate career and pursue work that truly feels like a calling? In this episode, executive recruiter and coach Rory Verrett joins The Price and Value Journey to share The Career Transition Blueprint, a thoughtful and empowering framework for professionals ready to step into their next chapter. Rory and host John Ray explore the emotional and practical shifts that come with reinvention, including how early influences and personal values shape our sense of purpose. Whether you’re seeking greater fulfillment, navigating a crossroads, or simply wondering what’s next, this conversation offers the clarity and encouragement to help you move forward with confidence.

The Price and Value Journey is presented by John Ray and produced by North Fulton Business Radio, LLC, an affiliate of the Business RadioX® podcast network.

Rory Verrett

Rory Verrett is an executive coach, leadership advisor, entrepreneur, and executive recruiter who helps high performers and high-potential professionals navigate pivotal career transitions with clarity, courage, and purpose. His career spans public policy, executive search, entrepreneurship, and leadership development, including roles as a lobbyist and in the NFL.

He is the founder of Protégé Search and host of the Protégé Podcast, where he explores the stories and strategies of diverse leaders. Rory is also the creator of The Career Transition Blueprint, an online academy designed to help professionals align their values, skills, and financial goals, especially in the wake of a layoff or major career disruption.

Rory, now based in Portugal, continues his global work coaching, guiding professionals to rediscover meaning in their work and boldly pursue their next chapter.

LinkedIn | Protégé Search website | Protégé Leadership Academy website

Topics Discussed in this Episode

00:00 Introduction to The Price and Value Journey
00:07 Rory Verrett’s Career Journey
02:02 Executive Search and Protégé Search
03:27 The Career Transition Blueprint
03:57 Identifying Career Markers
08:01 Influence of Background and Environment
12:51 Lessons from the NFL
16:54 Broadening Career Perspectives
19:10 Self-Awareness in Career Transitions
25:49 Aligning Values, Skills, and Income
30:01 The Morning Motivation for Entrepreneurs
31:01 Assessing Risk in Entrepreneurship vs. Corporate
31:54 The Importance of Company Culture
33:05 Control and Stability in Entrepreneurship
36:00 Defining Joy and Impact in Your Career
40:46 Mindset Shifts for Corporate to Entrepreneurship Transition
44:28 Introducing The Career Transition Blueprint
48:06 Final Thoughts and Contact Information

About The Price and Value Journey Podcast

The title of this show describes the journey all professional service providers are on: building a services practice by seeking to convince the world of the value you offer, helping clients achieve the outcomes they desire, and trying to do all that at pricing that reflects the value you deliver.

If you feel like you’re working too hard for too little money in your solo or small firm practice, this show is for you. Even if you’re reasonably satisfied with your practice, you’ll hear ways to improve both your bottom line and the mindset you bring to your business.

John Ray hosts the show, and he produces the show in conjunction with North Fulton Business Radio, LLC, an affiliate of Business RadioX®. You can also find the series on all major podcast apps. The complete show archive is here.

John Ray, Host of The Price and Value Journey

John Ray, Author of The Generosity Mindset and Host of The Price and Value Journey — John Ray, Author of *The Generosity Mindset* and Host of *The Price and Value Journey*

John Ray is the host of The Price and Value Journey.

John owns Ray Business Advisors, a business advisory practice. John’s services include business coaching and advisory work, as well as advising solopreneurs and small professional services firms on their pricing. John is passionate about the power of pricing for business owners, as changing pricing is the fastest way to change the profitability of a business. His clients are professionals who are selling their expertise, such as attorneys, CPAs, accountants and bookkeepers, consultants, coaches, marketing professionals, and other professional services practitioners.

In his other business, John is a podcast show host, strategist, and the owner of North Fulton Business Radio, LLC, an affiliate of Business RadioX®. John and his team work with B2B professionals to create and conduct their podcast using The Generosity Mindset® Method: building and deepening relationships in a non-salesy way that translates into revenue for their business.

John is also the host of North Fulton Business Radio. With over 850 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 its region like no one else.

John’s book, The Generosity Mindset: A Journey to Business Success by Raising Your Confidence, Value, and Prices

John is the #1 national best-selling author of The Generosity Mindset: A Journey to Business Success by Raising Your Confidence, Value, and Prices.

If you are a professional services provider, your goal is to do transformative work for clients you love working with and get paid commensurate with the value you deliver to them. While negative mindsets can inhibit your growth, adopting a different mindset, The Generosity Mindset™, can replace those self-limiting beliefs. The Generosity Mindset enables you to diagnose and communicate the value you deliver to clients and, in turn, more effectively price to receive a portion of that value.

Whether you’re a consultant, coach, marketing or branding professional, business advisor, attorney, CPA, or work in virtually any other professional services discipline, your content and technical expertise are not proprietary. What’s unique, though, is your experience and how you synthesize and deliver your knowledge. What’s special is your demeanor or the way you deal with your best-fit clients. What’s invaluable is how you deliver great value by guiding people through massive changes in their personal lives and in their businesses that bring them to a place they never thought possible.

Your combination of these elements is unique in your industry.There lies your value, but it’s not the value you see. It’s the value your best-fit customers see in you.

If pricing your value feels uncomfortable or unfamiliar to you, this book will teach you why putting a price on the value your clients perceive and identify serves both them and you, and you’ll learn the factors involved in getting your price right.

The book is available at all major physical and online book retailers worldwide. Follow this link for further details.

Connect with John Ray:

Website | LinkedIn | Twitter

Business RadioX®: LinkedIn | Twitter | Facebook | Instagram

Cultivating Future Leaders, with Randy Hain, Author of Practical Virtue

April 7, 2025 by John Ray

North Fulton Business Radio

Cultivating Future Leaders, with Randy Hain, Author of Practical Virtue

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Cultivating Future Leaders, with Randy Hain, Author of Practical Virtue (North Fulton Business Radio, Episode 861)

In this engaging episode of North Fulton Business Radio, host John Ray welcomes back executive coach and prolific author Randy Hain to discuss his newest book, Practical Virtue: An Actionable Guide to Help You Become a Leader Worth Following. Aimed at Gen Z and early-career professionals, the book serves as a resource for building essential leadership skills and virtues. Randy emphasizes the importance of mentorship, encouraging senior professionals to invest in the younger generation by sharing their own experiences and wisdom. The conversation covers key virtues like accountability, generosity, hard work, candor, and humility, offering practical tips and stories. Randy also introduces the “One Plus Three” project, urging mentors to guide three young professionals through the book. The episode calls for a collective effort to prepare future leaders by modeling and teaching virtuous leadership.

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 recorded inside Renasant Bank in Alpharetta.

Randy Hain, Author of Practical Virtue: An Actionable Guide to Help You Become a Leader Worth Following

Randy Hain is the founder and president of Serviam Partners and the co-founder of the Leadership Foundry.

With a successful 30+ year career in senior leadership roles, corporate talent and executive search, Randy is a sought-after executive coach for senior leaders at some of the best-known companies in the U.S. and globally who are seeking candid and expert guidance on how to overcome obstacles to their success or develop new leadership skills.

Randy is a husband, father, and active community leader and serves on the boards of the causes he cares about most. Randy has earned a reputation as a creative business partner and generous thought leader through his books, articles and speaking engagements.

Randy is the award-winning author of 12 books, including the newly released Becoming a More Thoughtful Leader, and a past guest of North Fulton Business Radio.

Website | LinkedIn

Topics Discussed in this Episode

00:00 Introduction and Welcome to North Fulton Business Radio
00:29 Introducing Randy Hain and His New Book, Practical Virtue
02:16 The Importance of Mentoring Gen Z
07:31 Book Structure and Virtues
09:56 Deep Dive into Key Virtues
17:58 The Power of Encouragement
18:27 Understanding Candor
21:38 The Importance of Humility
23:23 Destigmatizing Mentorship
24:42 The “One Plus Three” Project
27:38 Call to Action for Mentors
32:49 Conclusion and Final Thoughts

About North Fulton Business Radio and host John Ray

With over 850 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 business by sharing positive business 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**

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.

Roofing with Exceptional Service, Donna Chunglo, Donna the Roofer

April 7, 2025 by John Ray

North Fulton Business Radio

Roofing with Exceptional Service, Donna Chunglo, Donna the Roofer

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Roofing with Exceptional Service, Donna Chunglo, Donna the Roofer (North Fulton Business Radio, Episode 860)

In this episode of North Fulton Business Radio, host John Ray interviews Donna Chunglo, better known as “Donna the Roofer.” Donna shares her unique journey from part-time bookkeeper to becoming Georgia’s only roofing broker. She discusses how her distinct business model, which involves working with multiple roofing companies, enables her to offer tailored solutions to her clients. Donna emphasizes the importance of customer care, offering examples of her commitment to providing the best possible experience for those she works with. She also addresses common roofing concerns, such as the importance of regular inspections and the pitfalls of allowing unverified individuals on your roof. Throughout the episode, Donna highlights her dedication to community service and how her personalized approach to roofing has resulted in a business built entirely on referrals.

Donna Chunglo, Donna the Roofer

Donna Chunglo, Donna the Roofer

Donna Chunglo, also known as “Donna the Roofer,” is a trailblazer in the roofing industry with over a decade of hands-on experience. As the only known roofing broker, she brings a unique combination of expertise in office administration, production, and sales, allowing her to manage projects from start to finish with clarity and confidence.

Donna is also the author of How to Sell a Million Dollars in Roofs and Never Knock a Door!, a guide that reflects her innovative, relationship-driven approach to sales. Her business thrives on simplifying the most complex parts of the roofing process—especially storm damage repairs and insurance claims—by working directly with insurance companies to help clients get the coverage they deserve.

Known for her transparency and high standards, Donna treats every client like family. Whether it’s a roof replacement or a gutter installation, she ensures the process is smooth, personal, and rooted in quality craftsmanship.

When she’s inspecting a roof or mentoring others in the trade, Donna loves traveling the world with her husband, Chris, spending time with her three granddaughters, and exploring new crafts. She finds herself drawn to individuals who share her unique passions, and she aspires to fulfill a long-held dream of visiting Australia.

Website | Email

Topics Discussed on this Episode

00:00 Introduction to North Fulton Business Radio
01:42 Meet Donna the Roofer
02:25 Donna’s Unique Roofing Business Model
02:56 Donna’s Journey into Roofing
04:22 Building a Customer-Centric Roofing Service
06:41 Challenges and Successes in Roofing
11:28 Advice for Homeowners on Roofing
13:40 Insurance and Roofing: What You Need to Know
16:53 Referral-Based Business Model
17:27 Writing a Book on Roof Sales
18:04 Innovative Community Engagement
19:18 Beyond Roofing: Community Resource
21:58 Commercial Roofing Expertise
22:58 Client-Centric Approach
27:11 Drone Inspections vs. Traditional Methods
28:58 Who Should Call Donna?
30:19 Success Stories and Final Thoughts
31:52 Closing Remarks and Contact Information

About North Fulton Business Radio and host John Ray

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

Poop Scooping Service for a Healthy Environment, with Meliss Jakubovic, Clean Paws Scooping

April 3, 2025 by John Ray

North Fulton Business Radio

Poop Scooping Service for a Healthy Environment, with Meliss Jakubovic, Clean Paws Scooping

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Poop Scooping Service for a Healthy Environment, with Meliss Jakubovic, Clean Paws Scooping (North Fulton Business Radio, Episode 859)

In this episode of North Fulton Business Radio, host John Ray interviews Meliss Jakubovic, owner of Clean Paws Scooping. They discuss the unique and innovative services offered by Meliss’s business, which helps residential and commercial clients by professionally handling pet waste removal. Meliss shares her journey as a multiple-business owner, the research behind starting a poop scooping service, and the benefits of running an independent business. She also elaborates on the significant health risks associated with unattended pet waste and highlights how her company helps busy families, seniors, and pet enthusiasts maintain a clean and safe environment. Meliss shares the methods and tools Clean Paws Scooping uses to ensure thorough cleaning, customer experiences, and their plans for future expansion.

Special for North Fulton Business Radio listeners: Clean Paws Scooping is giving away $25 off your first month of recurring service with coupon code “RadioX.” Offer expires on August 1, 2025.

Meliss Jakubovic, Founder and Owner, Clean Paws Scooping

As the Owner of Clean Paws Scooping, Meliss Jakubovic is on a mission to retire pet owners from poop scooping, one yard at a time.

Through her locally owned and woman-owned business, she’s bringing cleaner, healthier outdoor spaces to homes, apartment complexes, HOAs, and businesses while giving busy families, elderly pet owners, and professionals one less thing to worry about. Clean Paws Scooping lives by its motto: “Our business is picking up their business,” making life easier for pet owners while keeping the community clean.

But scooping isn’t the only thing Meliss is a pro at. As an online marketing strategist and business growth expert for Meliss Marketing and Clients Come Knocking, she helps coaches, healers, and small business owners turn their expertise into thriving, profitable brands. With close to two decades of experience in digital marketing, lead generation, and business systems, she knows how to create visibility, build relationships, and turn prospects into loyal clients.

And if that weren’t enough, she’s also a professional folk dancer, preserving culture and bringing communities together through movement and tradition. With an eye for opportunity and a heart for service, she’s showing that success isn’t just about what you do; it’s about the impact you make.

Clean Paws Scooping

Clean Paws Scooping is a locally owned, professional pet waste removal service based in Duluth, Georgia. They specialize in keeping residential and commercial outdoor spaces clean and odor-free by offering scheduled poop scooping services on a weekly, biweekly, or monthly basis. Their services also include yard deodorizing and disinfecting, with a focus on safety and customer satisfaction.

Founded by Meliss Jakubovic, Clean Paws Scooping serves North Metro Atlanta areas such as East Cobb, Sandy Springs, Roswell, Alpharetta, Milton, Johns Creek, Peachtree Corners, and Duluth. The company emphasizes convenience, flexibility (no contracts required), and meticulous care to ensure yards are spotless and ready for use.

Website | Facebook

Topics Discussed in this Episode

00:00 Introduction and Welcome
01:53 Meet Meliss Jakubovic: The Poop Scooping Entrepreneur
03:02 The Business of Poop Scooping
04:33 Meliss’s Other Ventures
07:20 Why Dog Poop? The Research Behind the Business
09:09 The Importance of Clean Yards
12:12 How Clean Paw Scooping Works
15:25 Introduction to Client Types
15:40 Residential Services Overview
16:20 Commercial Services Overview
17:18 Geographic Coverage
19:05 Future Business Plans
20:31 Client Success Stories
23:03 Special Offer for Listeners
24:24 Contact Information and FAQs
26:07 Conclusion and Final Thoughts

About North Fulton Business Radio and host John Ray

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

Building Genuine Connections: Janice Porter on Relationship Marketing

April 2, 2025 by John Ray

North Fulton Studio

Building Genuine Connections: Janice Porter on Relationship Marketing

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Building Genuine Connections: Janice Porter on Relationship Marketing (The Price and Value Journey, Episode 127)

In this episode of The Price and Value Journey, host John Ray welcomes Janice Porter, a relationship marketing specialist, LinkedIn trainer, and host of the Relationships Rule podcast. Janice shares her unique approach to building genuine and lasting relationships through LinkedIn and tangible touches, such as sending personalized cards and making thoughtful connections. She emphasizes the importance of starting with service and generosity, nurturing existing relationships, and the strategic aspect of offering value without undervaluing oneself. Janice also discusses her journey from teaching to entrepreneurship, the mindset shifts needed to overcome limiting beliefs, and the surprising benefits of authentic relationship marketing. Tune in for valuable insights and practical tips on how to grow your business through meaningful connections.

The Price and Value Journey is presented by John Ray and produced by the North Fulton affiliate of Business RadioX®.

Janice Porter

Janice Porter is a renowned relationship marketing consultant and LinkedIn trainer with extensive experience in helping businesses build strong relationships and leverage LinkedIn for growth. She is the founder of Janice Porter & Associates, where she has been working since 2003. Her expertise lies in teaching business owners, entrepreneurs, and sales professionals how to create, nurture, and build lasting relationships using both online and offline strategies. She works with both introverts and extroverts, focusing on making connections that lead to referrals and loyal customers.

Janice is deeply committed to being a connector for others, leveraging her extensive network to link like-minded individuals for mutual benefit. She values her friendships and business associations, always considering how she can support others. Her mantra, “How may I support you?” reflects her service-driven philosophy.

Janice has a background in education, having earned a Bachelor of Education from The University of British Columbia. She has also taught networking skills at institutions like Capilano University and Douglas College.

Janice is recognized for her innovative approach to using LinkedIn, emphasizing the importance of nurturing connections beyond the platform through personal gestures like greeting cards and gifts. She hosts a podcast called Relationships Rule, further highlighting her focus on interpersonal connections in business.

Website | LinkedIn | Facebook | Instagram | Relationships Rule podcast

Topics Discussed in this Episode

00:00 Welcome and Introduction to Janice Porter
01:32 Janice’s Journey into Relationship Marketing
02:55 Understanding Relationship Marketing
05:05 The Importance of Genuine Connections
08:52 Effective LinkedIn Strategies
16:54 Tangible Touches and Follow-Up Techniques
25:05 Using Audio and Video Messaging on LinkedIn
25:48 LinkedIn App Features
26:04 The Power of Asking, “How May I Support You?”
26:38 Building Connections and Networking
28:10 The Journey of Podcasting
30:14 Supporting Introverts in Networking
35:10 Balancing Generosity and Business
40:32 Client Success Stories
44:56 Conclusion and Contact Information

About The Price and Value Journey Podcast

If you feel like you’re working too hard for too little money in your solo or small firm practice, this show is for you. Even if you’re reasonably happy with your practice, you’ll hear ways to improve both your bottom line and the mindset you bring to your business.

The show is hosted and produced by John Ray and North Fulton Business Radio, LLC, an affiliate of Business RadioX®. The show can also be found on all the major podcast apps. The complete show archive is here.

John Ray, Host of The Price and Value Journey

John Ray is the host of The Price and Value Journey.

John’s book, The Generosity Mindset: A Journey to Business Success by Raising Your Confidence, Value, and Prices

John is the #1 national best-selling author of The Generosity Mindset: A Journey to Business Success by Raising Your Confidence, Value, and Prices.

If you are a professional services provider, your goal is to do transformative work for clients you love working with and get paid commensurate with the value you deliver to those clients. While negative mindsets can inhibit your growth, adopting a different mindset, The Generosity Mindset™, can replace those self-limiting beliefs. The Generosity Mindset enables you to diagnose and communicate the value you deliver to clients and, in turn, more effectively price to receive a portion of that value.

The combination of all these elements is quite different for you compared to any other service provider in your industry. Therein lies your value, but it’s not the value you see. It’s the value your best-fit customers see in you.

The book is available at all major physical and online book retailers worldwide. Follow this link for further details.

Connect with John Ray:

Website | LinkedIn | Twitter

Business RadioX®: LinkedIn | Twitter | Facebook | Instagram

Exceptional Leadership Insights with John Ott

April 2, 2025 by John Ray

North Fulton Business Radio

Exceptional Leadership Insights with John Ott

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Exceptional Leadership Insights with John Ott (North Fulton Business Radio, Episode 858)

In this episode of North Fulton Business Radio, host John Ray interviews John Ott from Exceptional Leaders. Ott shares his journey into leadership coaching, emphasizing the importance of curiosity and understanding group dynamics, personal growth, and effective communication. He discusses the significance of being “inwardly sound” and “others focused” as key leadership qualities. John also highlights the importance of self-awareness and presents a 360-degree feedback tool to help leaders understand their strengths and areas for improvement. The episode concludes with John sharing success stories and offering insights into the holistic growth of leaders and their businesses.

John Ott, Co-Founder & Executive Coach, Exceptional Leaders

John Ott

Since 1999, John has led and developed hundreds of leaders in a variety of organizations: corporations, small businesses, startups, and non-profits. He is a co-founder and principal of Exceptional Leaders, LLC, a venture focused on guiding leaders and teams to achieve long-term, sustained excellence through advanced leadership development and integral coaching.

In the coaching context, John blends creative strategy with a deep understanding of human behavior and development. His approach is rooted in a long-standing curiosity around three questions:

How do people grow?
How do groups of people work together to accomplish amazing things?
How are ideas effectively communicated from one person or group to another?

John’s work consistently revolves around the alignment of people and resources with a unified mission. While portions of his time have been spent honing these skills in the non-profit sector, he has also actively consulted with a variety of for-profit and non-profit organizations in the areas of strategic operations and leadership development.

John began his career on the staff of a church in Nashville, TN, where he gained exposure to a broad spectrum of leadership opportunities. He went on to help found an industry-leading, high-tech, audio-visual firm. After that firm had gained sufficient traction, John went back into the non-profit sector, eventually joining the staff of North Point Ministries—one of the largest and most influential churches in the country. While at North Point, John led the development of leader training and operational infrastructure accessed by more than 1500 volunteer leaders locally and thousands more globally. Prior to co-founding Exceptional Leaders, John was the president of a private capital group specializing in real estate development, residential construction, and cellular tower development.

John holds professional coaching credentials with New Ventures West and a Bachelors Degree in Biblical Studies with a minor in Greek from Lipscomb University. He currently lives in a suburb of Atlanta, Georgia, with his amazing wife and four children.

Connect with John Ott: Website | LinkedIn

Connect with Exceptional Leaders: Website

Topics Discussed in this Episode

00:00 Introduction and Welcome
01:26 Meet John Ott: Exceptional Leaders
01:51 John Ott’s Journey to Coaching
02:20 The Role of Curiosity in Career Development
03:46 Taking the Leap: Starting a Business
06:23 The Importance of Leadership
08:16 Defining Leadership Effectiveness
11:58 Inwardly Sound and Others Focused
14:15 The Identity Crisis of Business Leaders
15:45 The Isolation at the Top
18:23 Navigating Leadership Challenges
19:57 Recognizing the Need for Coaching
25:40 Self-Awareness and Leadership
27:49 Success Stories and Outcomes
30:37 Connecting with John Ott
31:15 Final Thoughts and Gratitude

About North Fulton Business Radio and host John Ray

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

The Multigenerational Housing Solution, with Kay Sibetta, AARP Georgia, and Will Johnston, MicroLife Institute

March 31, 2025 by John Ray

North Fulton Studio

The Multigenerational Housing Solution, with Kay Sibetta, AARP Georgia, and Will Johnston, MicroLife Institute

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The Multigenerational Housing Solution, with Kay Sibetta, AARP Georgia, and Will Johnston, MicroLife Institute (North Fulton Voices, Episode 10)

In this episode of North Fulton Voices, hosts Jack Murphy and Nancy Diamond discuss the local workforce housing crisis with guests Will Johnston, Executive Director of the MicroLife Institute, and Kay Sibetta, Associate State Director of Community Outreach for AARP Georgia. They cover the specific issues facing seniors, declining school enrollments, and the importance of building diverse, multigenerational housing options. The conversation highlights the need for community engagement, innovative housing solutions like ADUs and micro-neighborhoods, and the urgency of updating zoning laws to create more inclusive, affordable housing. The hosts and guests emphasize the importance of education, architectural design, and outreach in fostering community acceptance of these housing changes.

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.

Kay Sibetta, Associate State Director, Community Outreach, AARP Georgia

AARP Georgia is a state-level chapter of the national AARP organization, focusing on issues affecting individuals aged 50 and older within the state. It provides various resources and support, including caregiver assistance, legal services, and financial aid programs. AARP Georgia advocates for policies benefiting seniors and offers community grants to enhance livability, such as improving public spaces and transportation. Additionally, it promotes initiatives like the Affordable Connectivity Program to ensure access to affordable high-speed internet for eligible residents. Local chapters across Georgia engage in community service, cultural events, and advocacy efforts tailored to regional needs.

Kay’s LinkedIn | AARP Georgia: Website | Facebook | Instagram

Will Johnston, Executive Director, MicroLife Institute

The MicroLife Institute is a nonprofit organization based in Atlanta, Georgia, dedicated to transforming housing options through innovative, sustainable, and affordable solutions. Specializing in “pocket neighborhoods,” the Institute develops small-scale, community-focused housing projects that reduce environmental impact and promote inclusivity. It combines education, advocacy, and research to address zoning reforms and expand housing choices, particularly for underserved populations. Notable projects include the award-winning Cottages on Vaughan and the Hope Springs Townhomes, which provide affordable housing while fostering community connections. Through workshops, consulting, and outreach events, the MicroLife Institute empowers individuals and municipalities to embrace micro-living principles for stronger, more equitable communities.

Will’s LinkedIn | MicroLife Institute: Website | LinkedIn | Facebook | Instagram

Topics Discussed in this Episode

00:00 Introduction to North Fulton Voices
00:40 Discussing Senior Housing Issues
01:05 Jack’s Data Insights
03:08 Meet the Guests: William Johnston and Kay Sibetta
03:23 Kay Sibetta on AARP’s Role and Initiatives
06:41 William Johnston on MicroLife Institute
08:42 Challenges and Solutions in Housing
11:42 Community Engagement and Zoning
15:42 AARP’s Advocacy and Outreach
21:13 The Importance of Education and Communication
27:50 Comprehensive Planning and Zoning Challenges
28:48 Affordable Housing and NIMBYism
29:42 Design and Architecture in Housing
31:14 Walkability and Livable Communities
33:53 Micro Housing and Pocket Neighborhoods
35:01 Municipalities and Workforce Housing
43:54 Community Engagement and Future Planning

North Fulton Improvement Network

The North Fulton Improvement Network (NFIN) is a think tank made up of community leaders from a variety of sectors, focused on missing middle housing and the livability challenges confronting North Fulton. We come from the six cities making up 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, we center our work on five areas of impact, seek to educate the public about these issues, build a network of individuals and organizations with innovative private and public solutions, and connect 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.

About North Fulton Voices

While North Fulton County is one of the most desirable places to live in the United States, the region faces a growing crisis: a severe shortage of housing options for middle-income employees, particularly essential workers such as first responders and teachers. North Fulton Voices, presented by the North Fulton Improvement Network, is the go-to source for in-depth analysis and discussion of missing middle housing and the livability challenges confronting North Fulton. Listen as we understand the implications of this problem, explore innovative solutions, and examine why providing these housing options is vital for North Fulton’s future. The show is sponsored and offered as a service to the community by John Ray Co. and the North Fulton affiliate of Business RadioX®.

Sponsor for North Fulton Voices: John Ray and Business RadioX – North Fulton

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 solopreneur 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.

Website | LinkedIn

Relationship Building with “The Bow Tie Banker,” Michael Miller, Embassy National Bank

March 27, 2025 by John Ray

North Fulton Business Radio

Relationship Building with "The Bow Tie Banker," Michael Miller, Embassy National Bank

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Relationship Building with “The Bow Tie Banker,” Michael Miller, Embassy National Bank (North Fulton Business Radio, Episode 857)

Host John Ray interviews Michael Miller, also known as “The Bow Tie Banker,” from Embassy National Bank, in this episode of North Fulton Business Radio. Michael shares his journey into banking, driven by a desire to help underserved communities. He discusses the importance of building relationships with clients, particularly small business owners, before they need critical banking services. Michael emphasizes the value of personal rapport and understanding clients’ needs deeply, which is often challenging for larger banks. The episode also covers practical advice for small business owners on how to establish excellent banking relationships and maintain solid financial health. Michael illustrates his points with success stories and practical examples, showcasing why smaller, community-centric banks can often provide more personalized and effective service.

Michael Miller, “The Bow Tie Banker,” Embassy National Bank

As a Commercial/SBA Loan Officer and Portfolio Manager of Embassy National Bank, Michael is responsible for working with business owners not only on their lending needs but also on their entire banking relationship. Known as “the Bowtie Banker,” Michael prides himself on personal service and responsiveness.

Prior to joining Embassy National Bank, Michael had worked with other financial institutions in the South and Midwest. His background has included commercial lending, special assets, risk management, loan documentation, fraud detection, & collections. Michael has over 30 years of experience in the banking industry.

Michael is a graduate of Washburn University with a Bachelor of Business Administration degree.

Embassy National Bank

Embassy National Bank, located in Lawrenceville, GA, is a community-focused financial institution providing expert business and personal banking services to the local area. With a strong emphasis on small business lending, commercial lending, residential construction lending, and 1-4 family investment lending, the bank is dedicated to helping growing businesses find the capital they need to expand and thrive.

The bank is committed to providing the best customer service and products tailored to meet customer needs. As a business-friendly bank, Embassy National Bank’s leaders reside within the communities they aim to grow, ensuring a deep understanding of local financial needs. The institution focuses on positioning businesses for success through comprehensive cash management solutions and various lending options, including SBA loans.

With decades of combined experience, the team at Embassy National Bank offers expert financial backing and advice to both individuals and organizations. They work diligently to help customers reach their business and personal financial goals, leveraging their extensive knowledge and personalized approach.

Website | LinkedIn | Facebook

Topics Discussed in this Episode

00:00 Introduction and Welcome
00:27 Meet Michael Miller: The Bow Tie Banker
01:41 Michael’s Journey into Banking
05:43 Building Strong Banking Relationships
09:06 The Importance of Local Banks
10:39 The Bow Tie Banker Brand
12:07 Community Banking vs. Mega Banks
15:38 Advice for Small Business Owners
23:52 Success Stories and Client Relationships
25:00 Conclusion and Contact Information

About North Fulton Business Radio and host John Ray

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

The Power of Persistence and Value in Sales, with Sales Coach Jacob Hicks

March 26, 2025 by John Ray

North Fulton Studio

The Power of Persistence and Value in Sales, with Sales Coach Jacob Hicks

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The Power of Persistence and Value in Sales, with Sales Coach Jacob Hicks (The Price and Value Journey, Episode 126)

In this episode of The Price and Value Journey, host John Ray sits down with Jacob Hicks, a dynamic sales coach, consultant, and host of the Purpose Driven Progress podcast. Jacob shares his journey from a shy retail worker to a skilled sales professional, emphasizing the importance of mindset, gratitude, and empathy in sales. The discussion delves into effective follow-up strategies, overcoming mindset blocks, and the essential role of daily affirmations and gratitude in maintaining a positive sales mindset. Jacob also introduces his “Delete and Dominate” strategy to handle negative client interactions and underscores the value of retail lessons for professional service providers. This episode is packed with actionable insights for anyone looking to enhance their sales approach and mindset.

The Price and Value Journey is presented by John Ray and produced by the North Fulton affiliate of Business RadioX®.

Jacob Hicks

Jacob Hicks is an exceptional Elite Success Coach dedicated to helping individuals build a satisfied and full life. As a certified Elite Coach, Jacob collaborates with leaders, professionals, and entrepreneurs, guiding them towards clarity and success in both their personal and professional lives. His coaching philosophy centers on empowering his “Coaching Allies” to discover optimal strategies for business and personal fulfillment.

Jacob’s approach involves creating goals, developing actionable plans, and executing those plans effectively. Through weekly one-hour calls and supplementary exercises, Jacob provides ongoing support and accountability to his clients. His passion for coaching is evident in his commitment to helping individuals gain clarity and construct actionable plans to realize their aspirations.

With a background in sales since 2014, Jacob has consistently achieved remarkable results across various industries. His track record includes surpassing goals, setting records, receiving awards, and effectively leading teams. This experience informs his coaching practice, allowing him to offer valuable insights into sales strategies and mindset. Jacob’s expertise in sales and coaching has been recognized in various contexts, making him a trusted advisor for those seeking to enhance their performance.

Beyond his professional pursuits, Jacob is committed to continuous personal growth. He is an avid reader, a self-taught piano player, and an investor. His passion for learning extends to travel, having explored extensively throughout the United States and the world. Jacob’s travels have also led him to engage in mission work in Liberia, demonstrating his commitment to making a positive impact beyond his coaching practice. This blend of professional expertise and personal growth makes Jacob Hicks a standout figure in the field of success coaching.

Website | LinkedIn | Instagram | Facebook

Topics Discussed in this Episode

00:00 Introduction and an Overview of Jacob Hicks
01:21 Jacob Hicks’ Sales Journey
03:24 The Importance of Follow-Up in Sales
06:24 Providing Value in Follow-Ups
17:27 Lessons from Retail for Professional Services
20:46 Mindset in Sales
22:21 Morning Affirmations and Gratitude
23:11 Experimenting with Affirmations
24:21 The Power of Gratitude
26:15 Common Mindset Blocks in Sales
28:38 Empathy vs. Sympathy in Sales
29:46 “Delete and Dominate” Strategy
36:54 Effective Follow-Up Strategies
40:40 When to Hire a Sales Coach
42:20 Conclusion and Contact Information