John Ray Archives - Page 28 of 66

The Top 1% of Podcasts: 50th Episode Milestone Celebration for Organization Conversation with Richard Grove and John Ray

February 8, 2024 by John Ray

Richard Grove, COO, Wall Control, Small Business Consultant, and Host of Organization Conversation

North Fulton Studio

The Top 1% of Podcasts: 50th Episode Milestone Celebration for Organization Conversation with Richard Grove and John Ray

00:00 /

The Top 1% of Podcasts: 50^th Episode Milestone Celebration for Organization Conversation with Richard Grove and John Ray (Organization Conversation, Episode 57)

To celebrate 50 episodes of Organization Conversation, host Richard Grove switched roles to become a guest, while John Ray of Business RadioX stepped in as host. They discussed the journey of Wall Control, influencer marketing, the impact of customer feedback on their product development, and the benefit of having “Made in the USA” as part of their brand. The conversation also touched on navigating cost fluctuations, sustainable business growth, the value of solid industry relationships, the maker community, and why Wall Control started the Organization Conversation podcast. Note that only 1% of podcasts reach 50 episodes. Congratulations to Richard and the Wall Control team on this noteworthy milestone!

Organization Conversation is broadcast from the North Fulton studio of Business RadioX® inside Renasant Bank in Alpharetta.

Topics Covered in this Episode

00:01 Introduction and Show Opening

00:55 Celebrating 50th Episode of Organization Conversation

02:17 The Role of Social Media in Business

03:41 The Impact of Customer Feedback on Product Development

07:00 Navigating the Challenges of Changing Costs of Goods Sold

09:42 The Importance of Sustainable Business Growth

16:02 Observations on the Maker Community and Ecosystem

19:32 Engaging with Influencers and Customers

22:13 The Process of Selecting Winning Content

24:07 The Intricacies of Business Verticals

28:33 The Challenges and Benefits of “Made in the USA”

33:03 The Power of Podcasts for Branding

37:04 Celebrating 50 Episodes of Organization Conversation

38:09 Closing Remarks and Wall Control Product Highlight

About Organization Conversation

Organization Conversation is hosted by Richard Grove and broadcast and produced from the North Fulton studio of Business RadioX® inside Renasant Bank in Alpharetta. You can find the full archive of shows by following this link. The show is available on all the major podcast apps, including Apple Podcasts, Spotify, Google, Amazon, iHeart Radio, Stitcher, TuneIn, and others.

Richard Grove, Wall Control

Richard Grove‘s background is in engineering but what he enjoys most is brand building through relationships and creative marketing. Richard began his career with the Department of Defense as an engineer on the C-5 Galaxy Engineering Team based out of Warner Robins. While Richard found this experience both rewarding and fulfilling, he always knew deep down that he wanted to return to the small family business that originally triggered his interest in engineering.

Richard came to work for the family business, Dekalb Tool & Die, in 2008 as a Mechanical Engineer. At the time, Wall Control was little more than a small ‘side hustle’ for Dekalb Tool & Die to try to produce some incremental income. There were no “Wall Control” employees, just a small warehouse with a single tool and die maker that would double as an “order fulfillment associate” on the occasion that the original WallControl.com website, which Richard’s grandmother built, pulled in an order.

In 2008, it became apparent that for the family business to survive they were going to have to produce their own branded product at scale to ensure jobs remained in-house and for the business to continue to move forward. Richard then turned his attention from tool and die to Wall Control to attempt this necessary pivot and his story with Wall Control began. Since that time, Richard has led Wall Control to significant growth while navigating two recessions.

Outside of Richard’s work at Wall Control he enjoys helping other business owners, operators, and entrepreneurs along their own paths to success by offering personal business coaching and advising through his website ConsultantSmallBusiness.com. Richard has developed an expansive and unique skillset growing and scaling Wall Control through a multitude of challenges to the successful brand and company it is today. Richard is happy to share his knowledge and experience with others who are looking to do the same within their own businesses.

Connect with Richard:

Instagram | Twitter | LinkedIn | Richard’s Website

About Wall Control

The Wall Control story began in 1968 in a small tool & die shop just outside Atlanta, Georgia. The first of three generations began their work in building a family-based US manufacturer with little more than hard work and the American Dream.

Over the past 50+ years, this family business has continued to grow and expand from what was once a small tool & die shop into an award-winning US manufacturer of products ranging from automobile components to satellite panels and now, the best wall-mounted tool storage system available today, Wall Control.

The Wall Control brand launched in 2003 and is a family-owned and operated business that not only produces a high-quality American Made product but sees the entire design, production, and distribution process happen under their own roof in Tucker, Georgia. Under that same roof, three generations of American Manufacturing are still hard at work creating the best tool storage products available today.

Connect with Wall Control:

Company website | Facebook | Instagram

Empowering Clients and Dispelling Myths in Family Law Cases, with Paul Simon, Hedgepeth Heredia Family Law

February 1, 2024 by John Ray

North Fulton Business Radio

Empowering Clients and Dispelling Myths in Family Law Cases, with Paul Simon, Hedgepeth Heredia Family Law

00:00 /

Empowering Clients and Dispelling Myths in Family Law Cases, with Paul Simon, Hedgepeth Heredia Family Law (North Fulton Business Radio, Episode 742)

Paul Simon of Hedgepeth Heredia joined host John Ray on this edition of North Fulton Business Radio. As a partner at his Atlanta-based firm, Paul specializes in family law, dealing with cases such as custody disputes, child support, alimony, and divorce. Paul dispels a few of the biggest myths about family law he regularly hears from clients. He stresses the importance of advocating for clients while also providing counseling and reasoned advice based on the facts. In addition to representation, Paul encourages individuals experiencing divorce or other family law issues to pursue therapy, rely on support networks, and invest time in activities they enjoy as part of their emotional recovery. He also highlights the considerable reach he and his firm have across multiple counties in the metro Atlanta region.

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

Paul Simon, Partner, Hedgepeth Heredia Family Law

Named a Rising Star by Super Lawyers in the area of family law, Paul has exclusively practiced family law for the entirety of his legal career. The nuance and complexity found in every family law case informs Paul’s approach towards all of his clients, which is to develop and craft a specific strategy to achieve optimal outcomes. Paul understands the difficulty family law issues can present and enjoys working with his clients towards bright, sustainable futures.

He is a member of the Family Law Section of the Atlanta Bar Association and the Family Law Section and Young Lawyers Division of the State Bar of Georgia. Paul has been published in the Daily Report, the legal organ of Fulton County, Georgia, and in the American Journal of Trial Advocacy. He has also spoken at continuing legal education conferences on topics germane to family law cases.

Paul received his B.A. in Political Science from the University of Georgia in 2010, where he was an active member of his fraternity, serving as president his junior year. He received his JD from the Cumberland School of Law at Samford University in Birmingham, Alabama, in 2013.

While in law school, he served as president of his law school class, as an articles editor for the American Journal of Trial Advocacy, and as an oral advocate for Cumberland’s national finalist moot court team. He participated in the National Appellate Advocacy Championships in Chicago in 2013 and received the Hand Arendall Award for Excellence in Appellate Advocacy.

Hedgepeth Heredia Family Law

Hedgepeth Heredia LLC is an Atlanta-based family law practice. The firm’s partners—Jon Hedgepeth, Hannibal Heredia, and Paul Simon—are some of Georgia’s most highly regarded and respected attorneys in family law. Their areas of expertise include divorce and separation, custody, support, property division, paternity, prenuptial and postnuptial agreements, adoption, and alternative reproduction. The firm is AV-rated, and its partners have been extensively recognized and honored with the legal community’s top awards, including Atlanta magazine’s “Super Lawyers,” Super Lawyers magazine’s “Top 100 Lawyers in Georgia,” and Georgia Trend magazine’s “Legal Elite.”

Office Location: 3330 Cumberland Boulevard, Suite 450, Atlanta, GA 30339, (404) 846-7025

Website | LinkedIn | Instagram | Facebook

Topics Discussed in this Interview

00:04 Introduction and Welcome
01:09 Meet Paul Simon: Family Law Attorney
02:41 Why Family Law? Paul’s Journey and Motivation
09:25 Understanding Family Law: Custody and Child Support
22:42 Choosing the Right Family Law Attorney
25:23 Paul’s Success Stories and Final Thoughts
30:58 Conclusion and Farewell

North Fulton Business Radio is hosted by John Ray and broadcast and produced from the North Fulton studio of Business RadioX® inside Renasant Bank in Alpharetta. You can find the full archive of shows by following this link. The show is available on all the major podcast apps, including Apple Podcasts, Spotify, Google, Amazon, iHeart Radio, and many others.

RenasantBank

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 $13 billion in assets and more than 190 banking, lending, wealth management, and financial services offices in Mississippi, Alabama, Tennessee, Georgia, and Florida. All of Renasant’s success stems from each of their banker’s commitment to investing in their communities as a way of better understanding the people they serve. At Renasant Bank, they understand you because they work and live alongside you every day.

Managing DSO Hygiene for Patient Care, Profitability, and Scalability, with Janet Hagerman, Fractional Chief Hygiene Officer

January 29, 2024 by John Ray

North Fulton Business Radio

Managing DSO Hygiene for Patient Care, Profitability, and Scalability, with Janet Hagerman, Fractional Chief Hygiene Officer

00:00 /

Managing DSO Hygiene for Patient Care, Profitability, and Scalability, with Janet Hagerman, Fractional Chief Hygiene Officer (North Fulton Business Radio, Episode 741)

On this episode of North Fulton Business Radio, host John Ray chats with Fractional Chief Hygiene Officer Janet Hagerman, who consults with Dental Service Organizations (DSOs). Janet discusses her role and explains the significance of effective hygiene departments for DSOs. She touches on the challenges DSOs face due to a lack of structures, high turnover, and low case acceptance rates. She emphasizes the role communication plays in addressing these issues, and the necessity of having congruent company and department visions. The episode concludes with Janet sharing her success stories and the sweet spots in her client base.

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

Janet Hagerman, Fractional Chief Hygiene Officer

Fractional Chief Hygiene Officer Janet Hagerman trains emerging DSOs to develop a profitable hygiene department positioned for same-store growth and acquisition scalability with consistent and profitable patient-centered systems. As badly as emerging DSOs need a game plan for growth, it’s often just not in the budget. As a fractional CHO, Janet utilizes her past DSO experience to teach DSOs how to create a hygiene department that is profitable, consistent, and scalable.

Janet is an international speaker, author, and consultant. A Medical College of Georgia graduate, Janet’s experience includes over 30 years of clinical and coaching experience with both solo and small to large group practices, and leadership as a corporate Director of Dental Hygiene, managing 100+ practices.

As a DSO Director of Hygiene, Janet created the hygiene department from the ground up, organizing best-in-class teams, creating scalable systems and profitable protocols, and cultivating a culture of enthusiastic, loyal support. She learned (sometimes the hard way) how to integrate the foundational hygiene department building blocks with the overall operational company structure. She introduced the clinical advisory board, which fosters dentist-hygienist collaboration. She learned and implemented strategies to increase patient treatment case acceptance, thus increasing production and revenue. Ultimately, she figured out how to create the foundational building blocks to produce a highly functioning DSO hygiene department, and now helps emerging DSOs do the same.

Website | LinkedIn

Topics Discussed in this Interview

00:04 Introduction to the Show
01:12 Introduction to Janet Hagerman
01:27 Exploring the Role of a Fractional Chief Hygiene Officer
05:05 The Importance of a Hygiene Department in Dentistry
06:04 The Challenges in the Dental Industry
08:19 The Role of Hygienists in Case Acceptance
12:05 The Impact of a Good Hygiene Department
26:24 The Importance of Metrics in Dentistry
32:53 The Success Stories of Janet Hagerman
35:26 Conclusion and Contact Information

RenasantBank

Secrets for Healthy Skin, with Maedeh Samimi, Urban Skin Care Clinic

January 23, 2024 by John Ray

North Fulton Business Radio

Secrets for Healthy Skin, with Maedeh Samimi, Urban Skin Care Clinic

00:00 /

Secrets for Healthy Skin, with Maedeh Samimi, Urban Skin Care Clinic (North Fulton Business Radio, Episode 740)

Maedeh Samimi, owner of Urban Skin Care Clinic in Roswell, joined host John Ray on this episode of North Fulton Business Radio. Maedeh discussed the importance of understanding skin, both in managing challenges like adult cystic acne and aging gracefully, highlighting the holistic approach that makes Urban Skin Care Clinic stand out. She shared how her personal experience with cystic acne fueled her passion for skincare and how her treatments aim to boost confidence and self-image in addition to improving skin health. Maedeh also covered the importance of daily skincare routines, including the use of sunscreen, why regular exfoliation is so crucial, and much more.

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

Maedeh Samimi, Owner, Urban Skin Care Clinic

Maedeh Samimi is a licensed aesthetician in Roswell, Georgia.

Maedeh started her career path as a makeup artist and enjoyed helping and uplifting women and their self-image. In her early 20s, she experienced adult cystic acne and quickly learned that masking her breakouts with makeup wasn’t improving her skin condition but further clogging her pores. Acne is the most common skin condition in the United States, affecting up to 60 million Americans and their self-esteem annually.

Inspired to help others after her own journey with acne, Maedeh founded Urban Skin Care Clinic in February of 2020 in Roswell. From the early days of her aesthetic career, Maedeh knew she wanted to focus on the clinical side of the industry, and from working in medical spa settings, she gained vast knowledge and over 10,000 hours of hands-on experience in clinical skin treatments and procedures.

Maedeh continuously furthers her education and stays current with industry news and innovations. She is passionate about helping and guiding other women to feel confident in their own skin and leaving makeup to be an option rather than a security blanket by clearing their acne, removing sun-damaged spots, and rejuvenating tired, dull complexions.

Maedeh is the host of The Skin Coach in Georgia podcast.

Website | Instagram | Facebook | YouTube | LinkedIn

Topics Discussed in this Interview

00:05 Introduction and Welcome

01:13 Interview with Maedeh Samimi, Owner of Urban Skin Care Clinic

01:32 Maedeh’s Journey into Skincare

03:55 Understanding Acne and its Causes

07:41 Holistic Approach to Acne Treatment

09:58 Helping Women Age Gracefully

15:21 Importance of Sunscreen and Exfoliation

24:31 A Success Story: Alexa’s Transformation

25:57 Contact Information and Closing Remarks

RenasantBank

Cybersecurity and IT Strategies for Small Businesses, with Chris Noles, Beyond Computer Solutions

January 22, 2024 by John Ray

North Fulton Business Radio

Cybersecurity and IT Strategies for Small Businesses, with Chris Noles, Beyond Computer Solutions

00:00 /

Cybersecurity and IT Strategies for Small Businesses, with Chris Noles, Beyond Computer Solutions (North Fulton Business Radio, Episode 739)

On this episode of North Fulton Business Radio, John Ray spoke with Chris Noles, Owner and President of Beyond Computer Solutions. Chris discussed the importance of cybersecurity in the current digital era, especially for small businesses, explaining how these businesses often overlook their vulnerability to cyber threats, thinking they are too small to attract attention. He delved into some strategies businesses can utilize to improve their online security, the impact of a cybersecurity breach, and the importance of receiving training and seeking professional advice. Chris also touched on the regulatory environment surrounding cybersecurity, the services that Beyond Computer Solutions offers, and success stories.

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

Chris Noles, Owner and President, Beyond Computer Solutions

Chris is an experienced virtual CIO and technology consultant for professionals and business owners. Chris has over 25 years of information technology experience and over 23 years of experience as a business owner providing managed IT and cybersecurity services.

Chris began his career in the 1990’s providing specialized IT services for law firms and business owners, and many of those same law firms and business owners continue to work with his team of experts today. Chris is a trusted advisor who has provided IT services, compliance, and security solutions to politicians, attorneys, doctors, and executives for organizations of all sizes.

Chris and his firm have over 20 years of experience keeping businesses running so that business owners can focus on running their businesses. His team has also played a significant role in responding to and remediating high-profile cybersecurity breaches. Chris has been featured in multiple articles, providing cybersecurity expert advice to medical and legal professionals who are concerned about protecting their reputations. Chris’s firm has been recognized as one of the top 501 MSPs worldwide.

When Chris isn’t helping business owners solve problems with technology, he enjoys spending time with his new daughter, traveling, and spending time outdoors.

Beyond Computer Solutions

Beyond Computer Solutions works with specialized medical practices and attorneys to help them stay out of the news headlines so that a cybersecurity breach doesn’t ruin their good reputation. They know the internal systems and controls needed to help you stay in compliance and keep the bad guys out.

Being entrenched in your industry, they know your business challenges and regulatory needs, i.e., securing documents, accounting systems, and your EMR system. HIPAA Compliance isn’t just a regulatory requirement; it’s also about protecting you from the consequences, which on average start at $10k per incident (think about that loss per patient record!) They ensure their client’s medical practices stay safe and stay in business by providing top-rated customer service through their US-based team.

The conversation starts with a complimentary security assessment, either by phone or video conference.

The company works with office managers, physicians, practice owners, CFOs, attorneys, and CIOs.

An example of what others say: “Beyond Computer Solutions fully understands the magnitude of the regulation and compliance we face in every aspect of our business. We trust their knowledge and expertise in making recommendations that help support and protect our compliance responsibilities. This allows us to focus on our core mission of healthcare.” (Pamela Rhoton, Office Manager, Peachtree Vascular Associates)

Website | LinkedIn | Facebook | YouTube

Topics Discussed in this Interview

00:04 Introduction and Welcome

01:27 Introducing Chris Noles and Beyond Computer Solutions

02:19 The Evolution of Technology and Business

05:28 The Challenges and Solutions in Cybersecurity

08:40 The Impact of Cybersecurity Breaches on Businesses

12:22 The Role of IT in Business Strategy and Productivity

23:19 The Risks and Solutions in Mobile Technology

27:23 Closing Remarks and Contact Information

RenasantBank

Business Success, Networking, and Giving Back, with Mark McKenzie, Docqmax Digital Printing

January 19, 2024 by John Ray

North Fulton Business Radio

Business Success, Networking, and Giving Back, with Mark McKenzie, Docqmax Digital Printing

00:00 /

Business Success, Networking, and Giving Back, with Mark McKenzie, Docqmax Digital Printing (North Fulton Business Radio, Episode 738)

This episode of North Fulton Business Radio features Mark McKenzie of Docqmax Digital Printing, who joined host John Ray to share his experiences as a business owner and the significant lessons he’s gained over the course of his career. Mark discussed the history of Docqmax, their remarkable record as a second-generation family business, and how he and his brothers have navigated the twists and turns in the printing industry. Mark shared his views about the importance of networking and creating valuable relationships for business growth. He also discussed the importance of giving back, touching on his longtime involvement with the Golf for the Kids Invitational, an annual golf tournament that raises funds for Children’s Healthcare of Atlanta and supports children battling cancer. Additionally, Mark imparted insights on how investing in real estate became one of Docqmax’s best business moves, the importance of support from outside professional advisors, and much more.

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

Docqmax Digital Printing

Docqmax Digital Printing and the McKenzie Brothers have been providing their experience and expertise in marketing, printing, and copying to Metro Atlanta area businesses since 1975, and you’ll find that they’re enthusiastic about what they do.

They started out as a Quik Print Printing Franchisee in the heart of Buckhead and established locations in Downtown and Midtown Atlanta, as well as the Cobb Galleria Area. During this time, Rich, Mark, and Mike became second-generation owners and led the company to become one of the top Quik Print franchisees in the nation. After more than 22 years of being a consistent sales leader and producer in the Quik Print franchise system, they became an independent printing company, and Docqmax Digital Printing was launched.

They later consolidated their strengths under one roof in Atlanta’s West Midtown district in 2004. In their current location, they have been able to capitalize on technologies, processes, efficiencies, longtime experienced staff and partners, all of which help them meet their client’s demands, which allows them to drive revenue and sleep at night.

They do all this by offering an online, print-on-demand web portal, strategic marketing services, traditional full-color offset printing, various digital printing services such as digital color printing, black-and-white digital printing, high-speed duplicating, large-format color printing, banners, posters, variable-date printing, and direct mail, as well as a complete bindery and finishing department.

Docqmax Digital Printing is a unique and special place. As a second-generation family-owned business, the McKenzie brothers feel privileged to be the owners of this company. They are 100% locally owned and operated and are proud of the fact that over 85% of all the labor, supplies, raw materials, and resources they use to create and manufacture printing are purchased from other locally owned companies that support our local economy.

The mission of Docqmax Digital Printing is to provide the best printing and most helpful service in our community.

How do they do that? First, while they are in the business of printing, they believe that their company produces something much larger than ink and toner on paper. They print your ideas, hopes, and dreams. They take pride in the fact that the documents they create help tell your story and make your business more successful. Finally, they make every effort to be successful, but recognize that they can only accomplish this if they can help you be successful.

Website | LinkedIn | Facebook | X (Twitter)

Golf for the Kids Invitational

In 20204, Golf for the Kids will celebrate 17 years of making a difference for children with severe medical diagnoses. This tournament, held in October every year, raises funds for Children’s Healthcare of Atlanta.

To learn more, register, sponsor, or donate, follow this link.

Topics Covered in this Interview

00:04 Show Introduction

01:14 Guest Introduction: Mark McKenzie from Docqmax Digital Printing

01:46 The Evolution and Impact of the Printing Industry

02:37 The Power of Direct Mail in the Digital Age

07:02 The Role of Print in Different Industries

12:11 The Value of Print in a Digital World

14:08 Golf for the Kids

19:23 The Impact of Canine for Kids Program at Children’s Hospital

22:52 The Power of Networking

23:19 The Importance of Referrals and Business Relationships

24:12 The Impact of Networking on Business and Personal Growth

25:18 The Philosophy of Giving and Receiving

25:47 The Unexpected Returns of Generosity

26:07 The Power of Awareness in Recognizing Blessings

26:24 The Importance of Giving in Business and Personal Life

36:37 Investing in Real Estate as a Business Owner

38:24 Taking Action on Advice

39:06 The Value of Having a Strong Support System in Business

41:00 Closing Remarks and Contact Information

RenasantBank

Rebekah Black, Jambos, and Heather Bellew, HB Consulting Co

January 4, 2024 by John Ray

North Fulton Business Radio

Rebekah Black, Jambos, and Heather Bellew, HB Consulting Co

00:00 /

Rebekah Black, Jambos, and Heather Bellew, HB Consulting Co (North Fulton Business Radio, Episode 737)

Rebekah Black, Jambos, and Heather Bellew, HB Consulting Co, joined host John Ray on this edition of North Fulton Business Radio. Rebekah is the founder of a nonprofit organization that provides brand-new pajamas to children in the foster care system. She shared Jambos’ incredible growth, serving children across all 50 states and 17 countries since its formation in 2018. Heather discussed her work at HB Consulting Co, helping small businesses and nonprofits gain visibility in their communities through what she calls “community marketing.” Both guests emphasized the importance of building authentic community connections and the power of doing good for business development. The discussion also touches on corporate social responsibility, the role of digital marketing, and practical tips for small businesses and nonprofits.

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

Rebekah Black, CEO, Jambos

Rebekah Black is a mother, nonprofit leader, foster advocate, and author of Let’s Get Comfy, the short, sweet, and simple bedtime story that both children and parents have grown to love.

Rebekah is the founder of Jambos, a 501(c)(3) nonprofit that has provided new pajamas to children in foster and orphan care in over 50 states and 16 countries since 2018. The mission of Jambos, Inc. is to bring comfort to vulnerable children and their families. Jambos is on a mission to bring comfort to kids in the foster care system by providing them with brand new pajamas. As an organization, they partner with the community to host pajama drives, collecting thousands of pairs of brand-new pajamas to be shipped to children all over the world. They know the comfortable feeling that comes from putting on brand new pajamas and it is their heart to share that feeling with the children they serve.

Known for dreaming big dreams, Rebekah is excited to see what big ideas she can come up with next.

Originally from eastern Kentucky, she now resides outside of Atlanta, GA, with her three daughters and an adopted kitten named Moo.

Connect with Jambos: Facebook | Instagram | TikTok

Connect with Rebekah: LinkedIn

Heather Bellew, CEO and Founder, HB Consulting Co

Heather Bellew is the CEO and Founder of HB Consulting Co, and her journey has taken her from McDonough, Georgia, to Gadsden, Alabama, and back. She has a strong academic foundation in Sociology and Women’s Studies from the University of Georgia.

Heather’s true joy lies in helping nonprofits and small businesses thrive through community engagement, combining her skills, experience, and values to create a positive impact in the world. Her dedication extends to serving on multiple advisory and board positions in the community, such as Gwinnett Young Professionals, the Lawrenceville Business Alliance, The Cottage, a sexual assault and children’s advocacy center, and others. Her achievements have garnered recognition, such as being honored as one of the recipients of the Gwinnett Young Professionals’ 35 under 35 award, securing the Best of Gwinnett 2022 Award, reaching the finals for both the Gwinnett Chamber’s Moxie Awards and Small Business Awards, and most recently, earning the distinction of being named one of the winners of the Young Nonprofit Professionals Network of Atlanta’s 30 under 30 award.

When she’s not working, you’ll find Heather cheering on the Dawgs and the Braves, exploring the great outdoors with her dog Bellew (“Blue”) and her cat Button in her cat backpack, and being a full-time RVer.

LinkedIn | Instagram | Facebook

Topics Covered in these Interviews

00:06 Introduction and Welcome

01:15 Introduction to Guests: Rebekah Black and Heather Bellew

01:27 Discussion about Jambos and its Mission

02:23 Rebekah’s Personal Journey and Passion for the Cause

04:19 The Importance of New Pajamas for Foster Kids

07:52 The Story Behind the Name “Jambos”

09:10 The Growth and Expansion of Jambos

10:17 The Process of Collecting and Distributing Pajamas

15:04 The Impact of Going Viral on TikTok

19:23 The Importance of Year-Round Support

21:06 Looking Forward: The Future of Jambos

25:15 Getting Involved: How to Connect with Jambos

26:09 HB Consulting: Serving Small Businesses and Nonprofits

29:14 The Importance of Community and Relationships in Business

30:43 Getting Out There: Tips for Nervous Business Owners

33:04 Corporate Social Responsibility: Choosing and Connecting with a Cause

35:39 Working with HB Consulting: What to Expect

39:17 Success Stories: Digital and Community Marketing

42:21 Closing Remarks and Acknowledgements

RenasantBank

Understanding The Importance of Regular Business Valuations, with David Hern, Sofer Advisors

January 3, 2024 by John Ray

North Fulton Business Radio

Understanding The Importance of Regular Business Valuations, with David Hern, Sofer Advisors

00:00 /

Understanding The Importance of Regular Business Valuations, with David Hern, Sofer Advisors (North Fulton Business Radio, Episode 736)

On this episode of North Fulton Business Radio, host John Ray talked with David Hern, CEO at Sofer Advisors. David highlighted the importance of regular business valuations and shared why it’s a key metric that businesses should track. He also talked about how valuations are tied to both tangible and intangible assets, as well as the significant role valuations play in strategic decision-making. David shared anecdotes from his career and explained how company valuations help in disputes or potential mergers. He also discussed how his firm helps businesses understand and evaluate their own worth.

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

David Hern, CEO, Sofer Advisors

David Hern is the founder and chief executive officer of Sofer® Advisors, LLC, focusing on business advisory services related to litigation assistance, estate and tax planning, and business enterprise valuations for various privately held and public companies.

He is a qualified financial analyst with a proven ability to simply and clearly communicate analysis to boards of directors, presidents and CEOs, CFOs, controllers, and private equity portfolio managers.

Mr. Hern has been recognized for enabling organizations to determine their enterprise and equity value for a variety of situations, including strategic planning, sale or IPO, mergers and acquisitions, financial reporting (common stock, stock option grants, purchase price allocations, impairment analyses, etc.), and tax compliance (estate & gift, 409A, NUBIG). Industry experience includes, but is not limited to, professional services, business services, healthcare, information technology, financial services, and manufacturing and distribution.

Sofer Advisors

Sofer^® Advisors was created in 2019, but their experience with valuation goes back over a decade. Their CEO, David Hern, has worked in the business valuation field at both boutique advisory firms and large international financial services companies.

While at these firms, David recognized the need for a boutique financial advisory firm in the Atlanta area to serve the business valuation needs of small- and medium-sized businesses.

These businesses have unique needs that require an advisor who can both empathize and have the agility to deliver prompt insights. Sofer® Advisors was formed to fill this void while providing high-quality business valuations to the lower and middle markets.

Since its inception, Sofer® Advisors has quickly added associates to help with the growing business. The firm specializes in providing a neutral third-party valuation of closely held businesses. The valuation and its insights will give the business owner the confidence they need when contemplating a material but uncertain financial decision.

After determining a company’s value, they communicate that information to the relevant stakeholders, including company management, the board of directors, shareholders, and financial or legal advisors.

This process involves more than just providing accurate numerical valuations. They put numbers into proper perspective, giving you key insights when making critical business decisions.

Their “Heart of a Teacher” approach is designed to help you understand the data we provide and how to use these insights to immediately benefit your organization.

Valuation services are applicable in many situations where business value may be uncertain and critical. These situations include litigation assistance, estate and gift tax planning, financial and tax reporting, and other contexts for public and private companies.

Website | LinkedIn | YouTube

Topics in this Interview

00:04 Introduction
01:20 Welcoming Guest: David Hearn, CEO of Sofer Advisors
01:33 Understanding Sofer Advisors and Their Services
02:21 David’s Journey and Passion for Business Valuation
09:40 The Importance of Business Valuation in Different Contexts
20:09 The Role of Intangible Assets in Business Valuation
27:50 Success Stories and Impact of Regular Valuations
30:53 Connecting with Sofer Advisors
32:00 Closing Remarks and Show Wrap-up

RenasantBank

Joe Summerour and Eric Williams, Taziki’s Mediterranean Cafe

January 3, 2024 by John Ray

North Fulton Business Radio

Joe Summerour and Eric Williams, Taziki's Mediterranean Cafe

00:00 /

Joe Summerour and Eric Williams, Taziki’s Mediterranean Cafe (North Fulton Business Radio, Episode 735)

On this episode of North Fulton Business Radio, host John Ray spoke with Joe Summerour and Eric Williams, both of whom work for Taziki’s Mediterranean Cafe in the Metro Atlanta region. They reflected on the company’s 25-year history, its growth from its inception after founders Keith and Amy Richards returned from an inspiring trip to Greece, up to its current 114 locations nationwide, and plans for further expansion. The conversation also covered Taziki’s emphasis on fresh, healthy Mediterranean-inspired food, commitment to excellent customer service, and investment in its staff. Details of new menu items and news about a new location in Johns Creek were also shared.

Joe Summerour, Atlanta Area Manager, and Eric Willliams, Atlanta Area Marketing, Taziki’s Mediterranean Cafe

Eric Williams and Joe Summerour, Taziki's Mediterranean Cafe, Metro Atlanta — **Eric Williams and Joe Summerour, Taziki’s Mediterranean Cafe, Metro Atlanta**

Joe Summerour is the Atlanta Area Manager of Taziki’s Mediterranean Cafe, and Eric Williams handles Atlanta-area marketing for the company.

Keith and Amy Richards founded Taziki’s Mediterranean Cafe in Birmingham, Alabama, in 1998. After a trip to Greece a year earlier, Keith put his culinary skills to work, recreating some of the cuisine and experiences from the region. With a menu patterned after dishes traditionally served in Greek homes, Keith and Amy grew their dream restaurant from one to three locations and then began franchising in 2013 after partnering with Fresh Hospitality. Now at almost 100 units, Taziki’s continues to grow while serving many of the same dishes curated by Keith and Amy’s initial trip to Greece.

From hand-cut meats served with signature sauces to healthy salads filled with fresh fruits and veggies, Taziki’s Mediterranean Cafe has mastered the art of creating Mediterranean-inspired dishes that are destined to become your next familiar favorite. At each location, dine-in, carry-out, and catering are available. Please check out their locations and menus here.

Topics in this Interview

00:05 Introduction
01:17 Welcoming Guests: Joe Summerour and Eric Williams
01:39 The Origin Story of Taziki’s
03:29 The Philosophy and Accolades of Taziki’s
04:28 Exploring the Menu of Taziki’s
10:44 The Impact of the Pandemic on Taziki’s
19:14 The Growth and Expansion of Taziki’s
21:16 Franchise Opportunities and Final Remarks