John Ray Archives - Page 12 of 66

Enhancing Image and Personal Branding with Arlene Stearns, ImageUp System

March 25, 2025 by John Ray

North Fulton Business Radio

Enhancing Image and Personal Branding with Arlene Stearns, ImageUp System

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Enhancing Image and Personal Branding with Arlene Stearns, ImageUp System (North Fulton Business Radio, Episode 856)

In this episode of North Fulton Business Radio, host John Ray welcomes Arlene Stearns, a personal branding image consultant and founder of ImageUp System. Arlene shares her expertise on the importance of image and personal branding, especially for women. She discusses the connection between appearance and confidence, productivity, and success. Arlene delves into her career trajectory, passion for helping people, and her creative background. The conversation covers various aspects of personal branding, including the impact of fashion versus style, the importance of self-confidence, and how to handle transitions in wardrobe needs post-pandemic. Arlene also shares success stories of transforming clients’ images and enhancing their professional presence. Listeners are provided insights on how to recognize the need for a makeover and the step-by-step process Arlene uses to create transformational changes for her clients.

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.

Arlene Stearns, ImageUp System

Arlene Stearns is a renowned image consultant and executive presence coach, best known for creating the ImageUp System. With over 20 years of experience in the fashion industry, she has developed a profound understanding of how appearance impacts success. Her journey began with a deep-rooted connection to fashion, thanks to her family’s involvement in the New York City fashion scene. Arlene’s expertise spans owning a clothing line and working as a stylist in exclusive boutiques, where she won four national awards for her mastery of the “mix and match” concept. This background has equipped her with the skills to help clients create a distinctive personal style that boosts confidence and revenue.

As the founder of the ImageUp System, Arlene guides successful women entrepreneurs, business owners, and corporate executives to enhance their appearance and presence, enabling them to capitalize on lucrative opportunities. Her system is designed to transform clients’ inner and outer personas, ensuring that their inner brilliance radiates outwardly. Arlene is a sought-after speaker and has been featured at prominent events and publications, including the Women’s Professional Development Network and Best Self Magazine. Her mission is to empower individuals to look and feel like leaders, thereby increasing their earning potential and professional influence. Beyond her professional life, Arlene enjoys painting, traveling, and maintaining a balanced lifestyle through meditation and exercise.

Website | LinkedIn | Instagram | Facebook

Topics Discussed in this Episode

00:00 Introduction and Welcome
01:41 Meet Arlene Stearns: Personal Branding Expert
03:49 The Importance of Appearance
06:31 Fashion vs. Style
10:43 Comfort and Style Post-Pandemic
14:24 Self-Confidence and Productivity
18:44 Feeling Like a Million Dollars
19:03 Empowering Clients Through Makeovers
20:16 Immediate Impact of Makeovers
21:45 Breaking Out of Style Ruts
23:47 Identifying the Need for a Style Consultant
25:50 The Ultimate Style Success Session
29:06 Transformative Success Stories
30:58 Addressing Fears and Embracing Change
32:48 Working with Male Clients
35:03 How to Connect with Arlene Stearns
35:53 Closing Remarks and Gratitude

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.

The Value of Operational Efficiency, with Dennis Jackson, WorX Solutions

March 19, 2025 by John Ray

North Fulton Studio

The Value of Operational Efficiency, with Dennis Jackson, WorX Solutions

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The Value of Operational Efficiency, with Dennis Jackson, WorX Solutions (The Price and Value Journey, Episode 125)

In this episode of The Price and Value Journey, host John Ray interviews Dennis Jackson, founder of WorX Solutions. Dennis shares his experience transitioning from the corporate world to starting his own business, focused on helping small and mid-sized companies optimize operations and workflows. They delve into the importance of understanding client needs, the shift from hourly to value-based pricing, and tips for entrepreneurs such as networking, the significance of having an accountant, and setting up strong partnerships. Dennis also discusses his podcast, WFH with Two Guys, which explores remote work and business ownership. Throughout the conversation, Dennis emphasizes the value of building relationships, the challenges of operational inefficiency, and the critical mindset adjustments necessary for successful entrepreneurship.

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

Dennis Jackson, Founder, WorX Solutions

Dennis Jackson is the Managing Partner and founder of WorX Solutions, an IT services and consulting company based in Hendersonville, Tennessee. He established the company in 2011 with a focus on bridging operational gaps for small to midsize businesses.

WorX Solutions offers solutions such as workflow automation, data management, CRM creation, and custom software development. They strive to help clients save time and money by streamlining tasks, improving communication, and providing real-time data and project tracking.

Prior to founding WorX Solutions, Dennis’s career spanned gained experience in utility management and financial modeling. He holds a Master’s degree in Engineering Management from Cornell University and a Bachelor’s degree in Civil Engineering from Lafayette College.

Dennis is also the co-host, along with Benny Carreon, of the WFH with Two Guys podcast.

LinkedIn | Company Website

Topics Discussed in this Episode

00:00 Introduction and Guest Overview
02:05 Dennis Jackson’s Background and WorX Solutions
04:33 Challenges and Solutions for Small Businesses
11:00 The Importance of Networking and Relationships
20:13 Starting a Business: Lessons and Advice
23:28 Navigating Entrepreneurship and Networking Strategies
28:43 Introduction to Operational Efficiency
28:52 Communicating Value in Business
29:49 Impact of Efficiency on Costs and ROI
33:15 Client Success Stories
36:02 Building Strong Client Relationships
39:50 Transitioning to Value-Based Pricing
42:20 Challenges and Strategies in Pricing
45:15 Podcast Journey and Insights
51:02 Lessons Learned from Podcasting
54:17 Conclusion 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 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, 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 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.

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.

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.

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

Championing Synergetic Culture® with Adam Bieber

March 19, 2025 by John Ray

North Fulton Business Radio

Championing Synergetic Culture® with Adam Bieber

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Championing Synergetic Culture® with Adam Bieber (North Fulton Business Radio, Episode 855)

In this episode of North Fulton Business Radio, host John Ray interviews Adam Bieber, Director of Business Development at Logic Speak and Founder of The Synergetic Culture® Company. Adam shares insights on his dual roles in managed IT and cybersecurity, and his consulting firm focused on building effective sales processes and improving company cultures. He discusses the importance of building trust between founders and their sales teams, strategies for young professionals to maximize their influence and impact, and how he uses his podcast as a business development tool. Tune in to learn how businesses can move past growth plateaus and foster a positive and effective organizational culture.

Adam Bieber, The Synergetic Culture® Company

Adam Bieber is the founder & CEO of The Synergetic Culture® Company, a fractional sales leadership consulting firm. Their mission is to empower organizations to WIN.

Adam is the host of the Synergetic Culture® podcast that exists to help young professionals maximize their influence and impact! Adam also serves as the Director of Business Development at Logic Speak, a managed IT and cybersecurity company.

Most importantly, Adam is the husband to an amazing wife, Katie. And Dad to the most brilliant 6-year-old, Benji.

Topics Discussed in this Episode

00:00 Introduction and Welcome to North Fulton Business Radio
00:33 Guest Introduction: Adam Bieber
00:42 Sponsor Message: Renaissance Bank
01:32 Adam Bieber’s Background and Roles
03:16 Joining Logic Speak: A Perfect Fit
05:23 Community Involvement and Networking
08:18 The Synergetic Culture Company: Origin and Mission
10:28 Podcasting as a Business Development Tool
14:32 Sales Process and Founder-Led Sales
21:42 Young Professionals: Influence and Impact
27:25 Identifying Business Needs and Success Stories
32:35 Conclusion and Contact Information
33:51 Host’s Closing Remarks

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.

Leave a Legacy, Not a Logjam, with Rachel Donnelly, Author of Late To Your Own Funeral

March 18, 2025 by John Ray

North Fulton Business Radio

Leave a Legacy, Not a Logjam, with Rachel Donnelly, Author of Late To Your Own Funeral

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Leave a Legacy, Not a Logjam, with Rachel Donnelly, Author of Late To Your Own Funeral (North Fulton Business Radio, Episode 854)

In this episode of North Fulton Business Radio, host John Ray interviews Rachel Donnelly, founder of AfterLight and author of Late to Your Own Funeral: How to Leave a Legacy and Not a Log Jam. Rachel shares her personal journey that led her to establish AfterLight, a company dedicated to helping overwhelmed executors manage post-death logistics. She discusses the challenges of estate administration, the importance of strategic estate planning, and provides valuable insights and anecdotes from her work. Rachel’s new book aims to educate and guide people through the often-overlooked complexities of end-of-life planning with a touch of humor. Listeners will gain a more profound understanding of the necessity of preparing for the administrative side of death and the benefits of leaving a well-organized legacy.

Rachel Donnelly, Author

Rachel Donnelly is the author of Late To Your Own Funeral and founder and CEO of AfterLight. Her mission is simple: to help the living deal with dying.

She created AfterLight to help clients navigate the administrative maze of estate settlement and legacy planning after experiencing the overwhelming process herself, serving as executor for both her mother’s and uncle’s estates while working full-time and raising two children.

Prior to founding AfterLight, she worked in development for institutions including Emory University, Georgia Tech, and the Shepherd Center Foundation.

A graduate of Agnes Scott College, Donnelly lives in Decatur with her husband and two children.

Connect with Rachel and AfterLight: Rachel’s LinkedIn |Website | Instagram | Facebook

Late To Your Own Funeral, by Rachel Donnelly

The only aspect of life more certain than death? The bureaucratic nightmare that accompanies it. In Late To Your Own Funeral, Rachel Donnelly offers an effective and entertaining guide out of estate settlement purgatory.

“Rachel’s irreverent humor and no-nonsense guidance make legacy planning not just manageable but oddly enjoyable.” – Matt Paxton, author of Keep the Memories, Lose the Stuff and television host of Hoarders

Approximately 70% of Americans lack an estate plan, which leaves their loved ones grappling with a complex array of administrative challenges during their most difficult times. From planning funeral arrangements to the seemingly impossible task of canceling cable service, the logistics of loss often compound grief in unexpected ways.

After losing several family members in quick succession, Rachel realized that navigating grief is hard enough without the added burden of managing an estate. What mourners need most, she learned, isn’t another casserole, but a guide through death’s bureaucracy. Now, as an after-loss and legacy planning consultant, she serves as a “wedding coordinator—but for death,” helping others navigate the administrative maze of estate settlement.

Through a blend of practical insight and unflinching honesty, Rachel offers a roadmap for both the living and those thrust into the role of executor. Late To Your Own Funeral helps readers face the conversations everyone else avoids, giving loved ones an invaluable gift: the ability to mourn without drowning in paperwork.

Amazon

Topics Discussed in this Episode

00:00 Introduction and Welcome to North Fulton Business Radio
00:49 Meet Rachel Donnelly: Author and Entrepreneur
02:51 The Inspiration Behind Afterlight
04:31 Challenges of Being an Executor
06:58 The Importance of Estate Planning
20:36 Digital Age Complications
23:57 Humorous Insights and Personal Stories
28:03 Success Stories and Client Experiences
31:28 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.

Monetizing Your Firm’s Hidden IP with AI, with Mike Blake, High Score Strategies

March 12, 2025 by John Ray

North Fulton Studio

Monetizing Your Firm’s Hidden IP with AI, with Mike Blake, High Score Strategies

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Monetizing Your Firm’s Hidden IP with AI, with Mike Blake, High Score Strategies (The Price and Value Journey, Episode 124)

In this episode of The Price and Value Journey, host John Ray welcomes back Mike Blake, CEO of High Score Strategies, to explore the untapped potential of intellectual property (IP) for professional services firms. The discussion centers on the significant value that firms often overlook in their accumulated data and institutional knowledge. Mike explains the importance of structured data and how firms can monetize it through consulting services, thought leadership, and even AI-driven insights. The conversation delves into practical steps for firms of all sizes to start leveraging their data, the potential impediments, and the broader implications for firm valuation and exit strategy. Whether an accounting firm, law firm, or any other professional practice, Mike offers actionable advice to transform data into a valuable, saleable asset.

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

Mike Blake, High Score Strategies

Mike is the CEO of High Score Strategies (HSS), a consultancy devoted to guiding clients to understand the value of their businesses and intangible assets for acquisition, investing, capital raising, disposition, and succession planning.

Investors and owners rely on Mike’s “information over validation” advisory approach, understanding that the questions he asks unearth hard but crucial answers that support their next transformative step or business stage.

Mike’s background spans 20+ years in valuation and 8 years in venture capital and investment banking. Before founding HSS, he served as Managing Partner with Brady Ware Arpeggio, Director of Valuation Services with Aprio (formerly Habif, Arogeti, & Wynne), and Managing Director with Adams Capital.

He is also a Special Lecturer at Georgia Tech, where he teaches graduate students about the valuation of emerging technologies and intellectual property, with a focus on Monte Carlo simulations and real options theory.

Mike founded and ran Startup Lounge, a nonprofit in Atlanta that helped connect hundreds of investors and startups over a decade. He currently serves on the board of the BVIUK (Business Valuation Institute UK).

He has coached six teams to victory in business plan competitions, leading to over $300,000 in cash prizes and nearly $2 million in services—including an entrepreneur who secured funding through ABC’s Shark Tank.

A highly engaging and deeply knowledgeable speaker, Mike has delivered 100+ presentations on a range of topics, including startup valuation, business appraisal, risk management, intellectual property, and emerging tech valuation.

He holds an MBA from Georgetown University and a BA from Franklin & Marshall.

Mike is multilingual, speaking fluently in English, Ukrainian, Russian, and French, and is conversant in Portuguese, German, and Spanish.

He currently lives with his family in Caldas Da Rainha, Portugal, about an hour outside of Lisbon.

Website | Mike’s LinkedIn | Firm LinkedIn | YouTube | Facebook

Topics Discussed in this Episode

00:00 Introduction and Recap
00:50 Reintroducing Mike Blake, High Score Strategies
02:40 The Value of Intellectual Property in Professional Services
04:09 Monetizing Data and Information in Professional Services
10:46 Leveraging AI for Data Analysis
14:33 Challenges and Opportunities in Data Utilization
27:09 The Cost of a Conservative Mindset in Accounting
28:41 The Overwhelming Task of Data and Information Management
29:18 Leveraging AI for Competitive Advantage
32:22 Challenges and Solutions for Small Firms
40:06 Creating Value Through Structured Data
48:39 Prioritizing Data Management in Your Firm
52:19 Conclusion and Contact Information
23:19 Guidance for Business Owners
28:40 Success Stories and Impact
30:49 Conclusion and Contact Information

About The Price and Value Journey

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.

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

Navigating Career Transitions, with Kelly Johnson, Crystal Lake Marketing and Coaching

March 10, 2025 by John Ray

North Fulton Business Radio

Navigating Career Transitions, with Kelly Johnson, Crystal Lake Marketing and Coaching

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Navigating Career Transitions, with Kelly Johnson, Crystal Lake Marketing and Coaching (North Fulton Business Radio, Episode 853)

In this episode of North Fulton Business Radio, host John Ray talks with Kelly Johnson from Crystal Lake Marketing and Coaching. Kelly is a transition coach who helps individuals navigate career and business changes. She shares her own journey from an unfulfilled corporate employee to a successful business owner and coach. Kelly emphasizes the importance of understanding personal strengths through assessments, leveraging networks, and building a strong personal brand. She also discusses the process of transitioning to new careers or business ventures, providing actionable steps and success stories to illustrate her points. Kelly’s insights are invaluable for anyone feeling stuck or unfulfilled in their current role and seeking clarity on their next steps.

Kelly Johnson, Crystal Lake Marketing and Coaching

Kelly Johnson is a dedicated coach, speaker, and business leader who specializes in helping individuals and entrepreneurs discover their ideal career paths and achieve their professional and business goals.

As the founder of Crystal Lake Marketing and Coaching, Kelly blends her extensive experience in strategic healthcare marketing with her passion for personal and professional development. With over 25 years of experience in healthcare B2B growth marketing, Kelly has a proven track record of driving impactful results for organizations through innovative strategies and leadership.

Drawing from her professional journey and advanced coaching training, she has expanded her services to include career development and business coaching, empowering clients to navigate challenges, unlock their potential, and thrive in their chosen fields.

Kelly’s unique blend of marketing expertise and coaching insights allows her to provide a holistic approach to success, helping individuals and organizations align their goals, strategies, and purpose.

Topics Discussed in this Episode

00:00 Introduction to North Fulton Business Radio
00:24 Meet Kelly Johnson: Transition Coach
02:10 The Journey to Becoming a Transition Coach
03:19 Helping People in Transition
03:42 Career Arc and Self-Exploration
05:18 Understanding Strengths and Overcoming Fear
07:02 Real-Life Examples of Transition Coaching
13:38 Exercises for Career Clarity
17:33 Training for Career Transition
18:02 Building a Strong Personal Brand
20:36 Kelly’s Personal Transition Journey
23:19 Guidance for Business Owners
28:40 Success Stories and Impact
30:49 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.

Beyond Numbers: How Frazier & Deeter Invests in Relationships, with Jessie Broussard and Donna Beatty, Frazier & Deeter

March 7, 2025 by John Ray

North Fulton Business Radio

Beyond Numbers: How Frazier & Deeter Invests in Relationships, with Jessie Broussard and Donna Beatty, Frazier & Deeter

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Beyond Numbers: How Frazier & Deeter Invests in Relationships, with Jessie Broussard and Donna Beatty, Frazier & Deeter (North Fulton Business Radio, Episode 852)

In this episode of North Fulton Business Radio, host John Ray interviews Jessie Broussard, Chief Marketing Officer, and Donna Beatty, Tax Partner at Frazier & Deeter. The discussion highlights the evolution of Frazier & Deeter from a traditional accounting firm to a multifaceted advisory firm. Topics covered include the firm’s commitment to client relationships, the integration of technology like AI, and the recent rebranding efforts focused on maintaining client trust while evolving with modern times. The conversation also touches upon the importance of internal culture and recruiting in maintaining the firm’s growth and success. Listen to learn how Frazier & Deeter continues to innovate and serve their clients’ diverse needs while fostering a dynamic and supportive workplace.

Jessie Broussard, Chief Marketing Officer, Frazier & Deeter

Jessie Broussard was named Frazier & Deeter’s first Chief Marketing Officer in 2024, marking a significant milestone for the firm’s strategic growth. With more than 15 years of corporate marketing and leadership experience, she specializes in B2B marketing, advertising and sales enablement, along with a background in talent and organizational development. Her expertise spans brand development, demand generation and client engagement across professional services, technology and telecommunications sectors.

Known for leading high-performing teams, Broussard has developed marketing strategies that fuel business growth and innovation. Her leadership plays a key role in advancing Frazier & Deeter’s market presence and strengthening client relationships. A graduate of the University of Mississippi with a Bachelor of Arts in History, she has been recognized for her expertise in strategic communications and sales marketing in the B2B sector.

Donna Beatty, Tax Partner, Frazier & Deeter

Donna Beatty, a Partner in Frazier & Deeter’s Tax Practice, brings extensive professional tax and accounting expertise to the firm. Her experience includes providing comprehensive tax planning, review, advisory, and compliance services to closely held businesses, high-net-worth individuals, and professional services groups. She has significant expertise consulting with small businesses on financial software and has worked with clients across various industries, including real estate, construction, manufacturing and distribution, retail, professional services, technology, entertainment, and family-owned businesses.

Donna specializes in assisting law firms and real estate investment groups with complex tax matters. Her broad industry knowledge enables her to offer valuable insights in an evolving market. She has successfully represented clients before the Internal Revenue Service in Washington, D.C., showcasing her ability to navigate challenging tax scenarios.

A hallmark of Donna’s career is her commitment to building strong professional relationships with her clients. She thrives on understanding and meeting their needs and expectations. Before 1994, Donna served as a Principal at Frazier & Deeter before transitioning to a partner role at a small local accounting firm. She rejoined Frazier & Deeter in January 2010 to better serve her clients.

In addition to her professional accomplishments, Donna is actively involved in civic and professional organizations. She is a member of the American Institute of Certified Public Accountants (AICPA), the Georgia Society of Certified Public Accountants (GSCPA), and the Atlanta Tax Forum, where she serves as a Board Member and Past President. She is also a Board Vice President for the Better Business Bureau Serving Metro Atlanta, Athens & Northeast Georgia, and a Board Member and Past Chair of the C5 Georgia Youth Foundation. Furthermore, Donna serves as a director on the board of the Community Foundation for Northeast Georgia (CFNEG), contributing to initiatives that strengthen communities through leadership and charitable giving while supporting nonprofits and fostering meaningful connections between donors and causes.

Frazier & Deeter

Frazier & Deeter, founded in 1981 by Jim Frazier and David Deeter, is a prominent accounting and advisory firm that has grown from its Atlanta roots to become one of the largest and fastest-growing firms in the United States. The founders, dissatisfied with the rigid and impersonal approach of their Big Eight firms, set out to create a company that prioritized client relationships and hired curious professionals eager to understand their clients on a deeper level.

Over the past four decades, Frazier & Deeter has attracted talent from the world’s largest accounting firms, the Public Company Accounting Oversight Board (PCAOB), and prestigious colleges. Today, it stands as a Top 50 firm with a presence in three countries, maintaining its commitment to client-centric service.

The firm’s success is attributed to its brand promise of “Investing in Relationships to Make a Difference™,” which has earned it numerous accolades. These include recognition as a Best of the Best Accounting firm, Best Firm for Women, Fastest Growing, and Best Firm to Work For.

Frazier & Deeter offers a comprehensive range of services, including tax, audit, risk advisory, digital, and business transformation solutions. Its client base spans from Fortune Global 500 companies to small businesses worldwide. The firm is registered with the Public Company Accounting Oversight Board and the American Institute of Certified Public Accountants, underscoring its commitment to maintaining high professional standards.

Website | LinkedIn |Facebook | Instagram

Topics Discussed in this Episode

00:00 Introduction and Welcome to North Fulton Business Radio
00:33 Meet Jessie Broussard and Donna Beatty
01:52 Frazier & Deeter: Beyond Traditional Accounting
07:16 The Role of Technology and AI
11:50 Brand Refresh and Employer Branding
24:22 Client Success Stories and Firm Growth
29:11 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.

Empowering Breast Cancer Survivors, with Lois Rusco, TurningPoint Breast Cancer Rehabilitation

March 5, 2025 by John Ray

North Fulton Business Radio

Empowering Breast Cancer Survivors, with Lois Rusco, TurningPoint Breast Cancer Rehabilitation

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Empowering Breast Cancer Survivors, with Lois Rusco, TurningPoint Breast Cancer Rehabilitation (North Fulton Business Radio, Episode 851)

In this episode of North Fulton Business Radio, host John Ray interviews Lois Rusco, the Executive Director of TurningPoint Breast Cancer Rehabilitation. The discussion covers the vital need for specialized rehabilitation services for breast cancer survivors, highlighting the comprehensive support TurningPoint offers, including physical therapy, emotional counseling, and nutrition services. Lois shares her personal connection to the cause and the organization’s efforts to reach underserved communities through initiatives like the Atlanta Initiative and the Georgia Outreach Initiative. The episode also provides details on upcoming events and ways the community can support TurningPoint.

Lois Rusco, Executive Director, TurningPoint Breast Cancer Rehabilitation

Lois Rusco has been involved with TurningPoint since 2014 as a donor and volunteer. She joined the Board of Directors in 2021, where she served as Development Chair and on the Executive Committee as Treasurer. Lois joined the staff in 2022 as the Development Director and now serves as the Executive Director.

Lois has an MBA and is a former CPA. Prior to joining TurningPoint, she was an entrepreneur owning three successful businesses. Lois also worked in various roles in consumer packaged goods companies, including sales, marketing, brand management, and finance.

TurningPoint is important to Lois as her mother is a breast cancer survivor and her sister-in-law passed away from from the disease

TurningPoint Breast Cancer Rehabilitation

TurningPoint Breast Cancer Rehabilitation is a non-profit, 501(c)(3) organization dedicated to improving the quality of life for individuals impacted by breast cancer. Established in 2003, it provides specialized, evidence-based rehabilitation services to help patients manage the physical and emotional side effects of breast cancer treatment.

Located in Atlanta, Georgia, TurningPoint offers a comprehensive range of services including physical therapy, massage therapy, nutritional counseling, lymphedema screening and management, emotional support, and tailored fitness classes. These services are designed to address the holistic needs of patients, ensuring they can return to an active and healthy lifestyle. TurningPoint also offers reduced-fee and complimentary services, along with financial assistance programs, to ensure care is accessible to all, particularly low-income and uninsured patients.

TurningPoint is recognized as a thought leader in breast cancer rehabilitation and survivorship. It focuses on reducing socioeconomic, racial, cultural, and geographic barriers to care through initiatives like The Atlanta Initiative and The Georgia Outreach Initiative. The Atlanta Initiative targets underserved Black and LGBTQIA+ breast cancer survivors in Atlanta, while The Georgia Outreach Initiative reaches rural areas of Georgia where access to quality care is limited. TurningPoint provides telehealth services, transportation assistance, and financial aid to ensure that no patient is turned away. With a commitment to education, TurningPoint also offers workshops and training for healthcare providers to enhance patient outcomes and reduce cancer recurrence.

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Topics Discussed in this Episode

00:00 Introduction and Welcome to North Fulton Business Radio
01:32 Introducing Lois Rusco and TurningPoint
01:51 The Founding and Mission of TurningPoint
02:37 Lois Rusco’s Personal Connection
03:24 Challenges in Breast Cancer Rehabilitation
05:41 Services and Programs at TurningPoint
08:58 Community Outreach and Support
15:16 Events and Fundraising
17:02 Impact and Testimonials
18:27 Closing Remarks and Contact Information

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 $17 billion in assets and more than 180 banking, lending, wealth management, and financial services offices throughout the region. All of Renasant’s success stems from each banker’s commitment to investing in their communities as a way to better understand the people they serve. At Renasant Bank, they understand you because they work and live alongside you every day.

About North Fulton Business Radio and host John Ray

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

The Value of a Fractional CFO, with Lyle Newkirk, SeatonHill Partners

March 3, 2025 by John Ray

North Fulton Business Radio

The Value of a Fractional CFO, with Lyle Newkirk, SeatonHill Partners

00:00 /

The Value of a Fractional CFO, with Lyle Newkirk, SeatonHill Partners (North Fulton Business Radio, Episode 850)

In this episode of North Fulton Business Radio hosted by John Ray, guest Lyle Newkirk from SeatonHill Partners discusses his extensive experience as a fractional CFO. Lyle explains the value of having a fractional executive for middle-market businesses, stressing the importance of preparation for mergers and acquisitions (M&A). Throughout the conversation, Lyle shares insights on various aspects of business finance, from operational improvements with AI to the importance of soft skills in connecting with business owners. The episode is filled with practical advice and real-world examples, showcasing the unique benefits of hiring a seasoned fractional CFO.

Lyle Newkirk, CFO Partner, SeatonHill

Lyle Newkirk is a CFO partner with SeatonHill. He has over 35 years of experience in CFO and executive finance roles. He has worked with public and private companies based both in the US and internationally, where he developed the strategies to achieve significant top-line revenue growth and helped to facilitate various successful acquisitions and strategic exits, including three exits to Fortune 500 companies. Lyle has extensive experience in technology companies in general and SaaS companies specifically. Lyle’s expertise also includes FP&A, growth planning and tactics, cash management, HR, sales operations, and regulatory compliance

SeatonHill provides organizations financial leadership with a strategic and operational focus by placing elite CFO talent to challenge the business and contribute to operational decisions to achieve results. With their curated talent, their financial leaders guide small and medium-sized businesses through complex financial problems to mitigate risk and achieve organizational goals.

SeatonHill is the fastest-growing CFO services firm in the nation, offering the power of combined thought leadership and the support of the country’s top financial talent to the benefit of all our clients. SeatonHill has offices in Boston, Dallas, Fort Worth, Los Angeles, Austin, Houston, New York, Atlanta, Chicago, Philadelphia, Phoenix, San Diego, and Washington D.C.

Topics Discussed in this Episode

00:00 Introduction and Welcome to North Fulton Business Radio
02:00 Meet Lyle Newkirk: Veteran CFO
04:02 The Role and Importance of a Fractional CFO
05:53 Soft Skills and Business Connection
08:06 Fractional Executive vs. Full-Time Employee
10:32 Leveraging Experience and Network
14:52 Middle Market Focus
16:23 Shift in Business Optimism
17:57 Preparing for M&A Transactions
19:18 Importance of Early Preparation
20:49 Navigating the LOI Process
24:29 Impact of AI on Finance
26:30 Success Stories in Business
29:37 Contact Information and Closing Remarks

Renasant Bank supports North Fulton Business Radio

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.

Enhancing Image and Personal Branding with Arlene Stearns, ImageUp System (North Fulton Business Radio, Episode 856)

Arlene Stearns, ImageUp System

Topics Discussed in this Episode

About North Fulton Business Radio and host John Ray

The Value of Operational Efficiency, with Dennis Jackson, WorX Solutions (The Price and Value Journey, Episode 125)

Dennis Jackson, Founder, WorX Solutions

Topics Discussed in this Episode

About The Price and Value Journey Podcast

John Ray, 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

Connect with John Ray:

Championing Synergetic Culture® with Adam Bieber (North Fulton Business Radio, Episode 855)

Adam Bieber, The Synergetic Culture® Company

Topics Discussed in this Episode

About North Fulton Business Radio and host John Ray

Leave a Legacy, Not a Logjam, with Rachel Donnelly, Author of Late To Your Own Funeral (North Fulton Business Radio, Episode 854)

Rachel Donnelly, Author

Late To Your Own Funeral, by Rachel Donnelly

Topics Discussed in this Episode

About North Fulton Business Radio and host John Ray

Monetizing Your Firm’s Hidden IP with AI, with Mike Blake, High Score Strategies (The Price and Value Journey, Episode 124)

Mike Blake, High Score Strategies

Topics Discussed in this Episode

About The Price and Value Journey

John Ray, 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

Connect with John Ray:

Navigating Career Transitions, with Kelly Johnson, Crystal Lake Marketing and Coaching (North Fulton Business Radio, Episode 853)

Kelly Johnson, Crystal Lake Marketing and Coaching

Topics Discussed in this Episode

About North Fulton Business Radio and host John Ray

Beyond Numbers: How Frazier & Deeter Invests in Relationships, with Jessie Broussard and Donna Beatty, Frazier & Deeter (North Fulton Business Radio, Episode 852)

Jessie Broussard, Chief Marketing Officer, Frazier & Deeter

Donna Beatty, Tax Partner, Frazier & Deeter

Frazier & Deeter

Topics Discussed in this Episode

About North Fulton Business Radio and host John Ray

Empowering Breast Cancer Survivors, with Lois Rusco, TurningPoint Breast Cancer Rehabilitation (North Fulton Business Radio, Episode 851)

Lois Rusco, Executive Director, TurningPoint Breast Cancer Rehabilitation

TurningPoint Breast Cancer Rehabilitation

Topics Discussed in this Episode

Renasant Bank supports North Fulton Business Radio

About North Fulton Business Radio and host John Ray

The Value of a Fractional CFO, with Lyle Newkirk, SeatonHill Partners (North Fulton Business Radio, Episode 850)

Lyle Newkirk, CFO Partner, SeatonHill

Topics Discussed in this Episode

Renasant Bank supports North Fulton Business Radio

About North Fulton Business Radio and host John Ray

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