Kali Boatright Archives - Page 3 of 9

Celebrating an Award-Winning North Fulton Franchisee, with Gloria Mattei and Sergio Pacheco, Nothing Bundt Cakes, Alpharetta/Milton and Sandy Springs

February 28, 2024 by John Ray

Nothing Bundt Cakes Sandy Springs Alpharetta Milton Roswell

North Fulton Studio

Celebrating an Award-Winning North Fulton Franchisee, with Gloria Mattei and Sergio Pacheco, Nothing Bundt Cakes, Alpharetta/Milton and Sandy Springs

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Celebrating an Award-Winning North Fulton Franchisee, with Gloria Mattei and Sergio Pacheco, Nothing Bundt Cakes, Alpharetta/Milton and Sandy Springs (GNFCC 400 Insider, Episode 92)

Host Kali Boatright welcomed Gloria Mattei and Sergio Pacheco, the award-winning owners of Nothing Bundt Cakes in Alpharetta/Milton and Sandy Springs to this edition of the GNFCC 400 Insider. During this insightful discussion, Gloria and Sergio shared their journey transitioning from the corporate world to franchise owners. Their perseverance and diligence helped them win the International Franchise Association’s recognition as a Franchisee of the Year in 2023 despite initial challenges, including receiving a rejection letter from their franchisor when they first applied. This couple also won a Circle of Honor award in 2023, given the top franchise in the Nothing Bundt Cakes system. The discussion further highlighted their active involvement in the Greater North Fulton Chamber of Commerce and other community initiatives, and their commitment as small business owners to provide high-quality service and opportunities to their employees and the community.

The GNFCC 400 Insider is presented by the Greater North Fulton Chamber of Commerce and produced by John Ray and the North Fulton studio of Business RadioX®.

Gloria Mattei and Sergio Pacheco, Nothing Bundt Cakes, Alpharetta, Milton, Roswell, and Sandy Springs

Sergio Pacheco and Gloria Mattei, Nothing Bundt Cakes Sandy Springs — **Sergio Pacheco and Gloria Mattei, Nothing Bundt Cakes**

Gloria Mattei and Sergio Pacheco are the owners of Nothing Bundt Cakes Alpharetta, Milton, Roswell as well as a newly acquired store in Sandy Springs. Nothing Bundt Cakes reintroduces an old family favorite—the Bundt cake—with a light, moist taste and fresh, clean look that appeals to all ages. Each 8” and 10” Bundt cake features custom concept cake decorations that are smart, contemporary, and fun to enhance any occasion, large or small, in a wide range of cake flavors and sizes. Nothing Bundt Cakes celebrates the very heart of true hospitality, where all are welcome, and no one is a stranger. Each thoughtful detail of the experience, from the heartfelt welcome at the door to remembering the customer’s favorite flavor, has been naturally embraced at Nothing Bundt Cakes

Nothing Bundt Cakes is not in the cake business; they are in the “joy-giving” business. Their mission is to come up with unique, valuable solutions to every guest celebration need.

Their journey out of the corporate world and into entrepreneurship started when Gloria met the Nothing Bundt Cakes (NbC) brand back in 2010, during one of her many business trips to California. A friend from Texas who was very familiar with the brand introduced her. She came home to tell Sergio, her husband, “I think we found the business,” and her husband said, “Are you crazy? You don’t even cook!”

Her first thought after knowing the brand, was, “There is nothing like this in Georgia.” One year later, the first NbC store opened in Sandy Springs, and Sergio got to taste the product, at his own Christmas housewarming party. At that point, he said, “You are on to something. Let’s start the research process.” What started as simple franchise research in January 2011 resulted in the opening of the 2nd NbC store in Georgia, store number 83 for the franchise system. They opened their doors in December 2013. They just celebrated their 10th anniversary on December 13, 2023.

In March 2022, Gloria and Sergio were approved to open their second bakery. However, destiny and serendipity had other plans. Gloria had a strong relationship with the owner of the first store in GA (Sandy Springs), and that owner reached out to Gloria as soon as she was approved for her second bakery and said, “I want to retire, and I don’t want to sell to anyone but you.”

Gloria and Sergio expanded their market by taking over the Sandy Springs bakery in June 2022 and are now proud owners of bakery #1 and #2 in Georgia, proudly serving the GA 400 North Fulton Corridor.

Gloria, Sergio, and their NbC family are proud to bring joy to their community and truly live the experience of how “cake changes everything.” Gloria and Sergio opened their business with a big dream. That dream is their why: the dream of building a platform for her son, who is in the autistic community. He could either be able to perform in it or prove that he, and other kids like him, can function and have a role in the community.

Gloria and Sergio have seen their business grow not only as a platform for their son, but also for their daughter and many other individuals, including other special needs young adults in the community. That accomplishment is proudly the one they are most proud of.

Website

Topics Discussed in this Episode

00:00 Introduction to the GNFCC 400 Insider

00:31 Meet the Guests: Gloria Mattei and Sergio Pacheco

01:14 Journey from Corporate World to Franchise Ownership

02:42 The Birth of a Business Idea: Nothing Bundt Cakes

03:42 The Decision to Become Franchisees

06:00 The Unexpected Journey to Franchisee of the Year

06:26 The Circle of Honor and Franchisee of the Year Awards

11:23 Reflections on Success and Perseverance

12:30 The Initial Rejection and Determination

13:09 Finding a New Path to Business Ownership

14:27 The Importance of Small Businesses

15:01 Challenges Faced by Franchise Owners

15:58 The Impact of Economic Fluctuations on Small Businesses

About GNFCC and The GNFCC 400 Insider

**Kali Boatright, President and CEO of GNFCC**

The GNFCC 400 Insider is sponsored by the Greater North Fulton Chamber of Commerce (GNFCC), and the host of the show is Kali Boatright, President and CEO of GNFCC.

The Greater North Fulton Chamber of Commerce is a private, non-profit, member-driven organization comprised of over 1,400 business enterprises, civic organizations, educational institutions, and individuals. Their service area includes Alpharetta, Johns Creek, Milton, Mountain Park, Roswell, and Sandy Springs. GNFCC is the leading voice on economic development, business growth, and quality of life issues in North Fulton County.

As a five-star accredited chamber, GNFCC’s vision is to be the premier organization driving member and community success across the region, and they are dedicated to pursuing this vision based on the guiding principles of advocacy, inclusivity, and operational excellence.

GNFCC promotes the interests of their members by assuming a leadership role in making North Fulton an excellent place to work, live, play, and stay. They provide one voice for all local businesses to influence decision-makers, recommend legislation, and protect the valuable resources that make North Fulton a popular place to live.

For more information on GNFCC and its North Fulton County service area, follow this link or call (770) 993-8806. For more information on other GNFCC events, follow this link.

2024 North Fulton Economic Outlook, with Dr. Jerry Parrish, Chief Economist, Metro Atlanta Chamber of Commerce

February 6, 2024 by John Ray

Dr. Jerry Parrish, Metro Atlanta Chamber of Commerce, and Kali Boatright

North Fulton Studio

2024 North Fulton Economic Outlook, with Dr. Jerry Parrish, Chief Economist, Metro Atlanta Chamber of Commerce

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2024 North Fulton Economic Outlook, with Dr. Jerry Parrish, Chief Economist, Metro Atlanta Chamber of Commerce (GNFCC 400 Insider, Episode 91)

On this episode of the GNFCC 400 Insider, Kali Boatright, President and CEO of the Greater North Fulton Chamber of Commerce, discusses the 2024 economic outlook for the North Fulton region with Dr. Jerry Parrish, Chief Economist at the Metro Atlanta Chamber. They talk about key global economic trends, the impact of the pandemic, inflation, and changes in work culture. They also delve into the labor market, the real estate market, the effects of AI on employment, and unique factors that might influence the 2024 economy. Dr. Parrish highlights Georgia’s growing and diversified economy, the role of the state’s transportation system, and the North Fulton area itself in attracting businesses and a skilled workforce. Finally, while Dr. Parrish expresses concerns around regional banks and offshore “black swan” events and situations, he sees the high office space vacancy as an economic development opportunity for the region.

The GNFCC 400 Insider is presented by the Greater North Fulton Chamber of Commerce and produced by John Ray and the North Fulton studio of Business RadioX®.

Dr. Jerry Parrish, Chief Economist, Metro Atlanta Chamber of Commerce

Jerry D. Parrish, Ph.D., is the Chief Economist at the Metro Atlanta Chamber. Dr. Parrish was previously the Director of State and Local Policy Analysis at the Florida Institute of Government at Florida State University. Dr. Parrish was also on the faculty in the Masters of Applied Economics Program at Florida State University for the past 12 years.

Jerry was previously the Chief Economist and Director of Research for the Florida Chamber Foundation. Prior to that position, Dr. Parrish was the Chief Economist and Director of the Center for Competitive Florida at Florida TaxWatch. Prior to that position, he served as the Associate Director of the Center for Economic Forecasting & Analysis (CEFA) at Florida State University. He has many years of experience in the private sector in management roles at international manufacturing companies.

Jerry earned a B.S. in Agricultural Business and Economics from Auburn University, an M.B.A. from Bellarmine University, an M.S. in Economics from the University of North Carolina at Charlotte, and a Ph.D. in Economics from Auburn University.

Topics Discussed in this Interview

00:01 Introduction and Welcome

00:30 Meet Dr. Jerry Parrish: Chief Economist at the Metro Atlanta Chamber

02:19 Economic Forecast: Global Trends and Recovery from the Pandemic

04:23 Impact of Remote Work on the Economy

11:07 The Future of the Labor Market

18:49 The Housing Market in 2024

21:14 North Fulton: An Economically Sound Area

24:14 Outliers and Significant Factors in 2024

26:33 Conclusion and Contact Information

About GNFCC and The GNFCC 400 Insider

The GNFCC 400 Insider is sponsored by the Greater North Fulton Chamber of Commerce (GNFCC), and the host of the show is Kali Boatright, President and CEO of GNFCC.

For more information on GNFCC and its North Fulton County service area, follow this link or call (770) 993-8806. For more information on other GNFCC events, follow this link.

GNFCC Year in Review and Leadership Transition: An Interview with 2023 Chair Danielle Cheung and 2024 Chair Jim Teel

December 14, 2023 by John Ray

North Fulton Studio

GNFCC Year in Review and Leadership Transition: An Interview with 2023 Chair Danielle Cheung and 2024 Chair Jim Teel

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GNFCC Year in Review and Leadership Transition: An Interview with 2023 Chair Danielle Cheung and 2024 Chair Jim Teel (GNFCC 400 Insider, Episode 90)

2023 Chair Danielle Cheung and 2024 Chair Jim Teel joined CEO Kali Boatright to discuss this year’s GNFCC leadership transition. Danielle and Jim discussed the Chamber’s successful year in 2023 and plans for 2024. They touched on how the chamber’s new strategic plan is shaping the organization’s future directions, with plans to boost the regional brand, pursue economic development opportunities, engage members, and strengthen advocacy efforts, particularly in areas of business retention, talent development, and infrastructure improvements. Danielle also recalled activities held throughout the 50th anniversary celebration in 2023 and highlighted the Chamber’s commitment to diversity, equity, and inclusion.

The GNFCC 400 Insider is presented by the Greater North Fulton Chamber of Commerce and produced by the North Fulton studio of Business RadioX®.

Jim Teel, 2024 GNFCC Chair, and Regional Vice President, Goodwyn, Mills and Cawood

Jim Teel, 2024 Chair, GNFCC — **Jim Teel, 2024 GNFCC Chair**

As Regional Vice President for Georgia, Jim leads business development and marketing efforts as well as coordinates employee development initiatives for all of GMC’s Georgia offices. Jim is passionate about encouraging personal leadership and growth and providing opportunities for employees to lead and thrive.

An active member of the community, Jim is engaged in many organizations, including being named the Greater North Fulton Chamber Board Member of the Year and a Regional Leadership Institute Class of 2019 graduate. He is also a member of the Junior Achievement of Georgia Board of Directors, the Economic Development Association of Georgia, the Association of County Commissioners of Georgia, the Georgia Municipal Association, the Georgia Rural Water Association, the Georgia Association of Water Professionals, and the Association for Learning Environments.

He graduated from Auburn University with a bachelor’s degree in marketing, a master’s degree in building construction, and a minor in community planning.

Danielle Cheung, 2023 GNFCC Chair, and Director, Treasury Management Sales Sr. Manager, Wells Fargo Bank

Danielle Cheung is the Global Treasury Management Senior Manager, Government Banking, for Wells Fargo. In that role, Danielle leads a national team of Treasury Management Market Managers and Treasury Management Consultants responsible for delivering payment processing and advisory services to government entities (states, counties, cities, school districts, special districts, authorities, public utilities, including co-ops, transportation, airports, toll roads, and state housing financing authorities).

Danielle Cheung was formerly Senior Vice President and Market Executive for Atlanta Metro Business Banking at Bank of America. Danielle joined Bank of America in 2016 with over two decades of experience in commercial banking at JPMorgan Chase Bank. After completing a formal management training program in credit, she spent sixteen years as a senior relationship manager focused on the non-profit healthcare industry. Danielle also managed new hire training and campus recruiting nationally for commercial banking, after which she relocated from New York to Atlanta to run middle-market business development in Georgia and Alabama.

Giving back to her community is a priority for Danielle. She currently serves as the Chair of the Board of Directors of Atlanta Habitat for Humanity and sits on the Board of Directors of the Greater North Fulton Chamber of Commerce. Danielle mentors transitioning veterans and their families through American Corporate Partners and assists unemployed parishioners at her church with job search techniques and resume assistance.

Danielle was named the 2019 March of Dimes Woman of Distinction for achievement in the financial services sector and received the 2019 and 2020 President’s Volunteer Service Award from Points of Light for her contribution to the community. Danielle is also part of the Leadership Atlanta Class of 2022.

Danielle holds a Bachelor of Business Administration degree in Management Science and Mathematics and a Master of Business Administration degree in Finance from Pace University in New York. She resides in Johns Creek, Georgia, with her husband, Kamond, and their three children.

About GNFCC and The GNFCC 400 Insider

The GNFCC 400 Insider is sponsored by the Greater North Fulton Chamber of Commerce (GNFCC), and the host of the show is Kali Boatright, President and CEO of GNFCC.

For more information on GNFCC and its North Fulton County service area, follow this link or call (770) 993-8806. For more information on other GNFCC events, follow this link.

D.C. Fly-In Recap, with Jim Teel, Goodwyn, Mills and Cawood, and Tim Perry, North American Properties Atlanta

October 19, 2023 by John Ray

North Fulton Studio

D.C. Fly-In Recap, with Jim Teel, Goodwyn, Mills and Cawood, and Tim Perry, North American Properties Atlanta

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D.C. Fly-In Recap, with Jim Teel, Goodwyn, Mills and Cawood, and Tim Perry, North American Properties Atlanta (GNFCC 400 Insider, Episode 89)

Jim Teel, Goodwyn, Mills and Cawood and the 2024 Board Chair for GNFCC, and Tim Perry, North American Properties Atlanta and Chair of the True North 400 CID Board of Directors, were the guests on this episode of the GNFCC 400 Insider. They were two of the attendees of the annual Washington, D.C. fly-in organized by the Greater North Fulton Chamber of Commerce.

Jim and Tim talked about the importance of the fly-in, their advocacy efforts, and the meetings they had with elected officials. They also covered various initiatives and priorities discussed during the trip, such as community involvement, workforce development, advocacy for businesses, real estate, and criminal justice reform. They emphasized the significance of the trip in building relationships, advocating for the region’s interests, shaping the Chamber’s future advocacy agenda, and more.

The GNFCC 400 Insider is presented by the Greater North Fulton Chamber of Commerce and produced by the North Fulton studio of Business RadioX®.

Goodwyn, Mills and Cawood

Goodwyn Mills Cawood (GMC) is one of the largest architecture and engineering firms in the Southeast. Whether designing schools, parks, hospitals and other commercial developments, or providing clean water, safe streets and restoring resilient environments, GMC takes great pride in serving our communities through the transformative work they do.

Every project is guided by the foundational concept that communities are built by people, not companies, and they strive to serve their communities with quality, integrity, creativity and care. One of the Southeast’s most comprehensive multi-disciplined firms, GMC is equipped to provide all the services associated with architecture, interior design, civil engineering, environmental services, landscape architecture, planning, transportation engineering, geotechnical engineering, electrical engineering, surveying and disaster recovery.

Website | LinkedIn | Facebook | Instagram

Jim Teel, Regional Vice President, Goodwyn, Mills and Cawood, and 2024 Chairman of the Board, Greater North Fulton Chamber of Commerce

**Jim Teel, Regional Vice President, Goodwyn, Mills and Cawood (GMC), and Incoming Chairman of the Board, Greater North Fulton Chamber of Commerce**

An active member of the community, Jim is engaged in many organizations including being named the Greater North Fulton Chamber Board Member of the Year and a Regional Leadership Institute Class of 2019 graduate. He is also a member of the Junior Achievement of Georgia Board of Directors, Economic Development Association of Georgia, Association of County Commissioners of Georgia, Georgia Municipal Association, Georgia Rural Water Association, Georgia Association of Water Professionals and Association for Learning Environments.

He graduated from Auburn University with a bachelor’s degree in marketing, master’s degree in building construction and a minor in community planning.

North American Properties Atlanta

Since North American Properties’ inception almost 70 years ago, they have developed, managed, and invested in a diverse array of real estate projects so communities can thrive. This is the core of who they are and what they do.

More recently, North American Properties has diversified by investing in and partnering with portfolio companies, often from their inception.

Their real estate expertise, backed by deep operational experience, allows them to dream a little bit bolder through the investment they make in their projects.

They believe in what they do and know they have what it takes to succeed. Though they have many institutional partners, they always lead with capital first.

Courageous visions demand strong execution. They anticipate obstacles and find creative solutions, resulting in positive outcomes for the communities they serve.

Website | LinkedIn | YouTube | Instagram

Tim Perry, Managing Partner, North American Properties Atlanta and Chairman of the True North 400 CID Board of Directors

Tim Perry is passionate about the power of community building and all the ingredients needed to create a great place: walkability, connectivity, hospitality, street-level energy, events and the right mix of uses. He deeply believes that fixing high-potential-but-challenged mixed-use developments or bringing new experience through additional neighborhood density is the best way North American Properties can give communities the great places they deserve.

As Managing Partner, Tim is responsible for advancing North American Properties’ value-add acquisitions and redevelopment program and adding to the firm’s portfolio of commercial properties.

Tim Perry has driven North American Properties’ acquisition strategy for over a decade ultimately serving as North American Properties’ Vice President of Acquisitions in 2009, Director of Investments in 2012 and Chief Investment Officer in 2015. He previously led the acquisition, due diligence, capitalization and disposition teams for landmark communities Atlantic Station, Colony Square, Newport on the Levee, and Avalon; capitalization of the transformational development of Stadium Centre in Tallahassee; and the debt/venture capitalization of over 35 projects in excess of $2.5 billion of total value.

Tim holds a degree in Business Administration from Rhodes College. He is a licensed real estate Broker in Georgia, a member of Urban Land Institute, and a member of the International Council of Shopping Centers. In addition, Tim is on the Board of Directors for the North Fulton Community Improvement Districts, the Advisory Board for Rehabilitation Enables Dreams (RED), and several committees encouraging smart development and increased public transit. He resides in Johns Creek, Georgia, with his wife and children.

About GNFCC and The GNFCC 400 Insider

The GNFCC 400 Insider is presented by the Greater North Fulton Chamber of Commerce (GNFCC) and is hosted by Kali Boatright, President and CEO of GNFCC. The Greater North Fulton Chamber of Commerce is a private, non-profit, member-driven organization comprised of over 1400 business enterprises, civic organizations, educational institutions, and individuals. Their service area includes Alpharetta, Johns Creek, Milton, Mountain Park, Roswell and Sandy Springs. GNFCC is the leading voice on economic development, business growth and quality of life issues in North Fulton County.

The GNFCC promotes the interests of our members by assuming a leadership role in making North Fulton an excellent place to work, live, play and stay. They provide one voice for all local businesses to influence decision-makers, recommend legislation, and protect the valuable resources that make North Fulton a popular place to live.

For more information on GNFCC and its North Fulton County service area, follow this link or call (770) 993-8806. For more information on GNFCC events, follow this link.

For the complete show archive of GNFCC 400 Insider, go to GNFCC400Insider.com. The GNFCC 400 Insider is produced by John Ray and the North Fulton studio of Business RadioX®.

2023 NextGen Connects Mentor Match Program

August 4, 2023 by John Ray

North Fulton Studio

2023 NextGen Connects Mentor Match Program

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2023 NextGen Connects Mentor Match Program (GNFCC 400 Insider, Episode 87)

This episode of GNFCC 400 Insider focuses on the 2023 NextGen Connects Mentor Match Program. Two participants, mentor Paula Fine, Client Relations Director, Trinity Life at Home, and her mentee Fabiola Clermont, Events Supervisor, Chattahoochee Nature Center, shared with host Rebekah Anderson, Vice President at the Greater North Fulton Chamber, their experience getting to know each other, the impact the program has had on their life and career, their advice for future participants, a few cool wildlife facts, and much more.

The GNFCC 400 Insider is presented by the Greater North Fulton Chamber of Commerce and produced by the North Fulton studio of Business RadioX®.

Paula Fine, Client Relations Director, Trinity Life at Home

Paula Fine, Client Relations Director, has been working for Trinity for several years. She came to Trinity with years of special event planning, marketing and working directly with clients in health care environments as well as nonprofit organizations. She loves the senior population and has also begun to provide saxophone and music engagement to residents in several assisted and memory communities.

You can learn more at the Trinity Life at Home website or call 678-731-0831.

Fabiola Clermont, Events Supervisor,

Fabiola Clermont is the Events Supervisor at the Chattahoochee Nature Center. She graduated from University of Georgia with a BS in Wildlife Biology in 2017. Fabiola did research and field work before dipping her toes into the events world at CNC while waiting to become a naturalist. She discovered that she enjoyed event planning and has been doing so at CNC for the last 3 years.

About GNFCC and The GNFCC 400 Insider

For more information on GNFCC and its North Fulton County service area, follow this link or call (770) 993-8806. For more information on other GNFCC events such as this North Fulton Mayors Appreciation Lunch, follow this link.

For the complete show archive of GNFCC 400 Insider, go to GNFCC400Insider.com. The GNFCC 400 Insider is produced by John Ray and the North Fulton studio of Business RadioX®.

GNFCC 2023 Women of Excellence Award Winners: Toseima Jiles, CAI Business Group, and Freda Hardage, Northside Hospital

May 25, 2023 by John Ray

North Fulton Studio

GNFCC 2023 Women of Excellence Award Winners: Toseima Jiles, CAI Business Group, and Freda Hardage, Northside Hospital

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GNFCC 2023 Women of Excellence Award Winners: Toseima Jiles, CAI Business Group, and Freda Hardage, Northside Hospital (GNFCC 400 Insider, Episode 85)

This episode of the GNFCC 400 Insider celebrates two of the Women of Excellence Award winners: Toseima Jiles owner of CAI Business Group and Freda Hardage, Community Liaison for Northside Hospital.

They each talked about their path to their chosen fields, some of the challenges they encountered, the ways they empower and encourage other women, lessons they would pass along, and much more. Congratulations to these Women of Excellence award winners!

The GNFCC 400 Insider is presented by the Greater North Fulton Chamber of Commerce and produced by the North Fulton studio of Business RadioX®.

Woman of Excellence – Rising Star Award

Toseima Jiles, Founder and Owner, CAI Business Group

Toseima Jiles is a Consultant with CAI Business Group; the parent company of multiple business entities since 1991. Toseima has dedicated her life to the love of the arts and alongside the pursuit of that passion, business and arts consulting have comfortably landed as her metaphoric equivalent of superstar ‘Beyonce’ and ‘Sasha Fierce’. In other words, Toseima has accepted the fact that providing the experience of both has afforded a great opportunity to impact the lives of people in an authentic and unique way.

Knitting together the benefit of literary, visual, and performing arts to effectively teach life skills to children and offer creative solutions for business owners and management teams to increase profits is essential.

Hundreds of companies over the years have been helped, consulted, and inspired to produce more tangible results within their goals! We are proud to recognize the unique aspects of CAI Business Group within a diverse path that offers valuable perspective and insight for our clients. To uplift, edify, and inspire people is a humbling underlying goal.

Choose CAI Business Group because they are passionate about results!

Company website | LinkedIn | Instagram

Woman of Excellence – Living Legacy

Freda Hardage, Community Liaison, Northside Hospital

Freda Hardage has been a successful presence in Johns Creek for many years. Her accomplishments through service projects, community leadership, and her 41-year career at Northside Hospital have reached throughout the region.

For the past 21 years, Hardage managed the Alpharetta Campus for Northside Hospital’s outpatient services. As former Director, Foundation Services and Alpharetta Medical Campus, she oversaw the hospital’s philanthropy and community initiatives as well as managed the Alpharetta campus.

She continues to set the tone for giving back with her involvement in the community, serving on the boards of MARTA, The Drake House, and the Greater North Fulton Chamber.

Company website | LinkedIn

About GNFCC and The GNFCC 400 Insider

For the complete show archive of GNFCC 400 Insider, go to GNFCC400Insider.com. The GNFCC 400 Insider is produced by John Ray and the North Fulton studio of Business RadioX®.

Strategic Leadership Visit to North Carolina’s Research Triangle Region, with Samir Abdullahi, Select Fulton, and Kathi Cook, City of Alpharetta

May 2, 2023 by John Ray

North Fulton Studio

Strategic Leadership Visit to North Carolina's Research Triangle Region, with Samir Abdullahi, Select Fulton, and Kathi Cook, City of Alpharetta

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Strategic Leadership Visit to North Carolina’s Research Triangle Region, with Samir Abdullahi, Select Fulton, and Kathi Cook, City of Alpharetta (GNFCC 400 Insider, Episode 83)

Samir Abdullahi, Director of Select Fulton, and Kathi Cook, Director of Economic and Community Development for the City of Alpharetta, joined host Kali Boatright to recap their Strategic Leadership visit to Raleigh, Cary, and Research Triangle Park, North Carolina. They described the ways the two regions collaborate on information, learnings from the trip, the implications for growth in North Fulton, and much more.

The GNFCC 400 Insider is presented by the Greater North Fulton Chamber of Commerce and produced by the North Fulton studio of Business RadioX®.

Samir Abdullahi, Director, Select Fulton

Samir Abdullahi is Director of Economic Development at Select Fulton. It is Fulton County, Georgia’s economic and workforce development initiative that drives collaboration among public and private partners in order to generate inclusive growth, opportunities, and prosperity for the Metro Atlanta region.

Select Fulton does this by fostering the creation of middle and high-skill jobs in our key industries, preparing our residents for those opportunities, and accelerating the growth of connected and sustainable commercial development. Additionally, Select Fulton provides collaborative economic development leadership to promote a globally competitive, prosperous, and growing Fulton County economy to improve the wellbeing of our residents and communities.

Company website | LinkedIn

Kathi Cook, Director of Economic and Community Development, City of Alpharetta

Kathi Cook joined the City of Alpharetta over 30 years ago and is now the Director of Economic and Community Development.

The Community Development Department guides the growth and development of the City of Alpharetta to enhance the quality of life in our community while recognizing the City’s historic and natural features.

The Community Development Department led the City’s efforts in achieving a Gold Level Certification through the Atlanta Regional Commission’s Green Communities Program.

Alpharetta was the first city in the State of Georgia to achieve this accomplishment. This highest level certification demonstrates Alpharetta’s commitment to resource conservation and sustainability.

Company website | LinkedIn

About GNFCC and The GNFCC 400 Insider

For the complete show archive of GNFCC 400 Insider, go to GNFCC400Insider.com. The GNFCC 400 Insider is produced by John Ray and the North Fulton studio of Business RadioX®.

GNFCC Year in Review and Leadership Transition: An Interview with 2022 Chair James Holmes and 2023 Chair Danielle Cheung

January 25, 2023 by John Ray

North Fulton Studio

GNFCC Year in Review and Leadership Transition: An Interview with 2022 Chair James Holmes and 2023 Chair Danielle Cheung

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GNFCC Year in Review and Leadership Transition: An Interview with 2022 Chair James Holmes and 2023 Chair Danielle Cheung (GNFCC 400 Insider, Episode 82)

This episode of the GNFCC 400 Insider welcomed Danielle Cheung as the 2023 GNFCC Board Chair and offered gratitude to James Holmes for his service as the 2022 Chair. Along with host Kali Boatright, James and Danielle discussed the Chamber’s achievements for 2022, including the GACOC Award as Georgia Certified Chamber, 2023 goals established from strategic planning in 2022, the Chamber’s growth during the last year, and much more.

The GNFCC 400 Insider is presented by the Greater North Fulton Chamber of Commerce and produced by the North Fulton studio of Business RadioX®.

Danielle Cheung, 2023 GNFCC Chair, and Business Banking Atlanta Metro Market Executive, Bank of America

Danielle Cheung is Senior Vice President and Market Executive for Atlanta Metro Business Banking at Bank of America, which focuses on delivering financial solutions to middle market companies. She is accountable for business strategy/execution, sales performance and revenue growth. Danielle was recognized as a national Pinnacle Club winner in 2019 for market sales performance.

Danielle joined Bank of America in 2016 with over two decades of experience in commercial banking at JPMorgan Chase Bank. After completing a formal management training program in credit, she spent sixteen years as a senior relationship manager focused on the non-profit healthcare industry. Danielle also managed new hire training and campus recruiting nationally for commercial banking, after which she relocated from New York to Atlanta to run middle market business development in Georgia and Alabama.

Danielle is a member of Bank of America’s Atlanta Market Leadership team, which focuses on setting business and community engagement strategies across Metro Atlanta. In that capacity, she co-leads efforts around cross line of business client acquisition strategies. Danielle is Executive Sponsor for LEAD for Women, a network dedicated to promoting professional women’s development and has maintained a leadership role in the Business Banking Diversity & Inclusion Council.

Giving back to her community is a priority for Danielle. She currently serves as the Chair of the board of directors of Atlanta Habitat for Humanity and sits on the Board of Directors of the Greater North Fulton Chamber of Commerce (Chair Elect, 2023). Danielle mentors transitioning veterans and their families through American Corporate Partners and assists unemployed parishioners at her church with job search techniques and resume assistance.

Danielle has been heard on local radio and in print discussing the challenges of entrepreneurs and the Bank’s Atlanta market priorities. She was named the 2019 March of Dimes Woman of Distinction for achievement in the financial services sector and received the 2019 and 2020 President’s Volunteer Service Award from Points of Light for her contribution to the community. Danielle is also part of the Leadership Atlanta Class of 2022.

Danielle holds a Bachelor of Business Administration degree in Management Science and Mathematics and a Master of Business Administration degree in Finance from Pace University in New York. She resides in Johns Creek, Georgia with her husband Kamond and their three children (Elizabeth, 20; Gregory, 16; and Zachary, 13)

Company website | LinkedIn

James Holmes, 2022 GNFCC Chair, and SVP & North Fulton Market President, Truist

James Holmes serves as the Market President for Northeast Atlanta encompassing Gwinnett, North Fulton & Forsyth Counties. James is responsible for overseeing the commercial banking team and integration of all other lines of business such as Wealth Management, Institutional Services, Insurance, Retail, & Capital Markets into the Northeast Atlanta Commercial Banking Group.

His focus is helping privately held corporations and non-profits with annual revenues of $5,000,000 – $75,000,000; by aiding them in areas of Capital Formation, Payment Solutions, and Risk Management. James is experienced in real estate transactions, asset-based lending, equipment financing, and leveraged financing transactions.

BB&T and SunTrust formed Truist with a shared purpose—to inspire and build better lives and communities. With our combined resources, collective passion, and commitment to innovation, we’re creating a better financial experience to help people and businesses achieve more. With 275 years of combined BB&T and SunTrust history,

Truist serves approximately 12 million households with leading market share in many high-growth markets in the country. The company offers a wide range of services including retail, small business and commercial banking; asset management; capital markets; commercial real estate; corporate and institutional banking; insurance; mortgage; payments; specialized lending; and wealth management.

Headquartered in Charlotte, North Carolina, Truist is the sixth-largest commercial bank in the U.S.

Company website | LinkedIn

About GNFCC and The GNFCC 400 Insider

For the complete show archive of GNFCC 400 Insider, go to GNFCC400Insider.com. The GNFCC 400 Insider is produced by John Ray and the North Fulton studio of Business RadioX®.

A Fulton County Schools Update, with Superintendent Dr. Mike Looney

November 15, 2022 by John Ray

All Things Fulton County Schools with Superintendent Dr. Mike Looney

North Fulton Studio

A Fulton County Schools Update, with Superintendent Dr. Mike Looney

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A Fulton County Schools Update, with Superintendent Dr. Mike Looney (GNFCC 400 Insider, Episode 81)

Fulton County Schools Superintendent, Dr. Mike Looney joined host Kali Boatright to discuss school safety, redistricting changes, retaining and recruiting teachers, changes to the school board, preparing students for the future, and much more.

The GNFCC 400 Insider is presented by the Greater North Fulton Chamber of Commerce and produced by the North Fulton studio of Business RadioX®.

Fulton County Schools

Fulton County Schools is the fourth largest school system in Georgia with nearly 11,000 full- and part-time employees, and nearly 7,000 teachers and other certified personnel spread out throughout the county. These incredible individuals support nearly 90,000 students this year who are attending classes in 59 elementary schools, 19 middle schools, 19 high schools, 10 start-up charter organizations, and 1 full-time virtual school.

Website | Twitter | Facebook | Instagram

Dr. Mike Looney, Superintendent, Fulton County Schools

Dr. Mike Looney has served as the Superintendent for the Fulton County School District (FCS) in Georgia since June 2019. In the middle of his first year on the job, he became the first school leader in the state to be faced with reacting to the unknown – a confirmed, positive case of COVID-19. He immediately jumped into action, calling upon his 28 years as an educator, 15 years of previous experience as a school superintendent in Tennessee and Alabama, as a retired marine, father and community leader to guide the district through two years of COVID-19 protocols and safety measures, all while maintaining a focus on the mission of educating students.

Despite the pandemic, his goals remained consistent. He continued with a focused set of key priorities including dropout prevention, literacy for all, CTAE expansion, STEAM programs, middle school reform, leadership development, and solid financial management. He also led the development of the Bridge to Success plan, the district’s three-year comprehensive strategy and transformational investment to help students recover from learning loss resulting from the COVID-19 pandemic to ensure student achievement, growth and success.

As the superintendent of the AAA-rated school district, Looney is passionate about ensuring academic excellence and paving the way to post-graduate success for the district’s more than 89,000 students who attend 108 schools. He is deeply committed to the school board’s mission to educate every student to be a responsible, productive citizen.

Beginning his educational career as a substitute teacher, while working on an MBA, Looney rose to becoming an award-winning national speaker on education, including being named Tennessee Superintendent of the Year in 2015. Dr. Looney received his Educational Specialist degree and Doctorate in Educational Leadership from the University of Alabama and his bachelor’s degree in Business Management and master’s degree in Education from Jacksonville State University in Alabama.

Looney currently serves as a member of the Governor’s Advisory Board, Board of Directors for the Development Authority of Fulton County, Board of Directors of the Greater North Fulton Chamber of Commerce, and a member at North Point Community Church.

Looney is the proud father of four adult children, grandfather of two, and husband to Jennifer Looney. A successful business owner and professional skydiver, he recently added becoming a trained Wing Walker to his list of accomplishments.

About GNFCC and The GNFCC 400 Insider

For the complete show archive of GNFCC 400 Insider, go to GNFCC400Insider.com. The GNFCC 400 Insider is produced by John Ray and the North Fulton studio of Business RadioX®.