Sandy Springs Archives - Business RadioX ®

GNFCC Strategic Leadership Visit 2025: Scottsdale and Mesa

November 20, 2025 by John Ray

North Fulton Studio

GNFCC Strategic Leadership Visit 2025: Scottsdale and Mesa

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GNFCC Strategic Leadership Visit 2025: Scottsdale and Mesa Through North Fulton Eyes (GNFCC 400 Insider, Episode 110)

On this edition of the GNFCC 400 Insider, host Rebekah Anderson recaps the Strategic Leadership Visit 2025 to Scottsdale and Mesa, Arizona, through the eyes of two key North Fulton leaders, Chris Burnett of the City of Sandy Springs and Kristin Winzeler of True North 400. Each year, the Chamber convenes elected officials, business leaders, and civic partners for an in-depth look at another high-performing region, then brings those lessons home for North Fulton. Chris and Kristin share why trips like SLV matter for long-term economic competitiveness, relationship building, and a shared vision across city and county lines.

The conversation walks listeners through highlights of the Arizona visit, including Mesa’s approach to incubators and entrepreneurship support, higher education and workforce partnerships, library and mall redevelopments, and the role of intentional placemaking in creating vibrant districts. They also explore how sports-anchored assets such as spring training facilities can drive tourism, community identity, and volunteer engagement, and which ideas might translate most directly to North Fulton.

Chris and Kristin talk about the sessions that surprised them, the off-agenda moments that helped North Fulton leaders build relationships with each other, and what they learned most from seeing Scottsdale and Mesa up close. They close by updating listeners on current economic development priorities in Sandy Springs and major mobility and infrastructure projects along the Georgia 400 corridor and how regional collaboration can turn SLV insights into concrete wins for North Fulton.

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

Key Takeaways from This Episode

The importance of the GNFCC Strategic Leadership Visit in fostering relationships and a shared vision among North Fulton civic and business leaders cannot be overstated.
Mesa’s business incubators and education partnerships offer valuable insights that could guide talent and entrepreneurship initiatives in North Fulton.
The redevelopment of SkySong’s dead mall serves as a model for innovative mixed-use projects and has a significant long-term economic impact.
The insights from Scottsdale’s placemaking and the Chicago Cubs spring training complex shed light on tourism, volunteer engagement, and community identity.

Topics Discussed in this Episode

0:00 Introduction to the GNFCC 400 Insider podcast
00:28 Annual Strategic Leadership Visit (SLV) Overview
01:13 Meet the Guests: Chris Burnett and Kristin Winzeler
01:34 Understanding Economic Development and Community Improvement Districts
04:35 Insights from the SLV Trip to Scottsdale and Mesa, Arizona
07:37 Mesa Business Builder and Economic Impact
10:27 SkySong Innovation Center and Regional Collaboration
15:32 Arts and Culture: A Surprising Economic Driver
22:02 North Fulton’s Entertainment Scene
22:30 Strengthening Relationships on the SLV Trip
23:49 The Value of Personal Relationships
25:15 Organic Moments and Key Takeaways
26:24 Fanboy Experience and Baseball Stories
28:09 The Importance of SLV Trips
32:53 Economic Development in Sandy Springs
35:13 Exciting Developments in North Fulton
38:14 Conclusion and Final Thoughts

Kristin Winzeler, Executive Director, True North 400

Kristin Winzeler is the Executive Director of True North 400, an organization dedicated to enhancing the North Fulton business district that includes Alpharetta, Roswell, and Milton. She originally joined the organization in 2012 and has played a pivotal role in its growth and rebranding from the North Fulton Community Improvement District to True North 400 in 2023. As Deputy Executive Director, she helped generate more than $30 million in infrastructure improvements that spurred over $217 million in new investments throughout the district. Winzeler manages and oversees both small and large projects, focusing on increasing area investment and improving mobility and access in the North Fulton region.

Her deep commitment to sustaining organizational growth and advancing regional development marks Winzeler’s leadership. She resides in Woodstock, Georgia, with her husband and three daughters. Her extensive experience in managing civic improvement projects and community economic development makes her an influential steward for True North 400’s vision of fostering a vibrant and accessible business environment in the North Fulton area. Kristin is known for her hands-on approach and strategic vision, which continue to benefit the region’s ongoing development and prosperity.

Website | LinkedIn

Chris Burnett, Director of Economic Development, City of Sandy Springs

**Chris Burnett, City of Sandy Springs**

Chris Burnett is the Director of Economic Development for the City of Sandy Springs, appointed in 2024. With over 40 years of experience in community banking, he has served as President and CEO of multiple Atlanta-area banks, including founding the Bank of Sandy Springs in 2013. Burnett has played a key role in the city’s economic growth initiatives, focusing on redevelopment projects such as the North End and City Springs Phase II. He previously served on the Sandy Springs City Council from 2016 to 2021 and remains actively involved in local organizations like the Sandy Springs/Perimeter Chamber of Commerce and Special Olympics of Georgia. A longtime resident, he brings extensive knowledge of the community’s business environment and a strong commitment to its continued prosperity.

Before joining city government, Burnett dedicated decades to building and leading financial institutions, leveraging his expertise to foster business development and support local entrepreneurs and real estate ventures. He holds a Bachelor’s degree in Finance from Georgia State University and completed graduate banking studies at Louisiana State University. His leadership combines financial acumen with community engagement, aiming to enhance Sandy Springs’ economic vitality and quality of life through strategic planning and collaborative initiatives with businesses and local stakeholders. Burnett’s blend of banking experience and civic service uniquely positions him to advance the city’s economic development goals.

Website | LinkedIn

About GNFCC and The GNFCC 400 Insider podcast

Kali Boatright, President and CEO of the Greater North Fulton Chamber of Commerce (GNFCC) — **Kali Boatright, President and CEO of the Greater North Fulton Chamber of Commerce**

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

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

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

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

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

North Fulton Economic Alliance Launch with Rich Johnson

July 23, 2025 by John Ray

North Fulton Studio

North Fulton Economic Alliance Launch with Rich Johnson

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North Fulton Economic Alliance Launch with Rich Johnson (GNFCC 400 Insider, Episode 109)

Join Kali Boatright, President and CEO of the Greater North Fulton Chamber of Commerce, as she sits down with Rich Johnson, the newly appointed Executive Director of the North Fulton Economic Alliance. In this episode, discover how this innovative public-private partnership is transforming economic development across six North Fulton cities through regional collaboration, strategic branding, and workforce development initiatives.

Learn about the Alliance’s three core focus areas: branding and marketing the North Fulton region, expanding the talent pipeline, and elevating regional economic development. Rich shares insights from his extensive background in corporate leadership and community development, explaining how the Alliance will support cities like Alpharetta, Roswell, Johns Creek, Sandy Springs, Milton, and Mountain Park in attracting businesses and talent.

Whether you’re a business leader, economic development professional, or North Fulton resident, this episode provides helpful details about how regional collaboration can drive economic growth and competitiveness in today’s business landscape.

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

Key Takeaways from this Episode

Regional over competition: Six North Fulton cities collaborate instead of compete for business attraction.
Three focus areas: branding/marketing, talent pipeline development, and economic development support.
80/20 funding model: private sector provides 80% of funding, public sector provides 20%.
Infrastructure advantages: strong schools, fiber networks, GA-400 express lanes, and diverse housing options.
Workforce development hire: Alliance will add a dedicated professional to address talent pipeline challenges.
Long-term relationships: Focus on ongoing business support beyond initial recruitment efforts.
Collective resources: Pooled funding enables trade shows and marketing campaigns cities couldn’t afford alone.
Team approach: Collaboration among city, county, state, and utility economic developers.

Topics Discussed in this Episode

00:00 Introduction to the GNFCC 400 Insider podcast
00:30 Introducing the North Fulton Economic Alliance
01:30 Meet Rich Johnson, Executive Director
03:18 The Vision and Goals of the Alliance
04:15 Inspiration Behind the Alliance
05:46 The Importance of Regional Collaboration
08:35 Branding and Marketing North Fulton
10:22 Building a Strong Talent Pipeline
12:25 Supporting Economic Development
16:15 The Role of Collaboration and Partnerships
22:01 Future Plans and Expectations
25:13 Conclusion and Contact Information

Rich Johnson

Rich Johnson serves as the first Executive Director of the newly created North Fulton Economic Alliance (NFEA), a collaborative regional initiative under the Greater North Fulton Chamber of Commerce. In this role, Rich leads the effort to position Greater North Fulton as the Southeast’s premier location for business growth, talent development, and economic vitality. He directs the Alliance’s work to brand the region, implement a national marketing strategy, expand the local talent pipeline, and elevate regional economic development in partnership with business, government, and education leaders.

Prior to his appointment at NFEA, Rich spent over a decade with AT&T Georgia, most recently serving as Assistant Vice President of Legislative & Regulatory Affairs. In that role, he led AT&T’s statewide legislative and regulatory strategy, engaging with policymakers, regulators, and community organizations to advocate for key technology investments and infrastructure deployment. He also managed the company’s political giving and directed AT&T’s engagement with the Georgia General Assembly, Public Service Commission, and state agencies.

Rich brings over two decades of leadership experience in the public, private, and nonprofit sectors. A proven consensus-builder and strategic leader, he has a track record of aligning diverse stakeholders around common goals to drive meaningful impact for communities and businesses alike.

A native Georgian, Rich is a graduate of the University of Tennessee-Knoxville with a B.A. in Political Science. He remains actively engaged in civic leadership, currently serving on the boards of the University System of Georgia Foundation and the Georgia Partnership for Excellence in Education. His previous board service includes Georgia 811, the Georgia Emergency Communications Authority, the Greater North Fulton Chamber of Commerce, Fulton County WorkSource, the Regional Business Coalition, and the Georgia Hispanic Chamber of Commerce.

Rich and his wife, Allison, a public school educator, reside in Milton, Georgia, with their two children. They are active members of Birmingham United Methodist Church.

About GNFCC and The GNFCC 400 Insider podcast

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.

Celebrating Life at the Legacy Chapel at Arlington Memorial Park, with David Hass, Service Corp. International

November 19, 2024 by John Ray

North Fulton Business Radio

Celebrating Life at the Legacy Chapel at Arlington Memorial Park, with David Hass, Service Corp. International

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Celebrating Life at the Legacy Chapel at Arlington Memorial Park, with David Hass, Service Corp. International (North Fulton Business Radio, Episode 817)

In this episode of North Fulton Business Radio, host John Ray discusses the innovative new Legacy Chapel at Arlington Memorial Park in Sandy Springs with David Hass, Senior Managing Director of the Eastern Region for Service Corporation International. They delve into the details of the new mausoleum cremation urn complex, highlighting its unique features and development process. The conversation also covers broader trends in the funeral and cemetery industry, including the shift towards more uplifting celebrations of life and the increasing preference for cremation over traditional burials. Additionally, the importance of pre-planning and the benefits it provides both to individuals and their families are discussed. David shares insights into the operations of Service Corporation International and their commitment to maintaining high standards and personalized services across their network of funeral homes and cemeteries.

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

Arlington Memorial Park

Situated on 122 wooded acres of rolling hills along Mount Vernon Highway in north Atlanta’s Sandy Springs community, Arlington Memorial Park has provided exceptional cemetery services since 1922. Featuring mature trees, two lakes and an array of options for interring loved ones, the park welcomes and celebrates the lives of families from all faiths, backgrounds and cultures as a non-denominational cemetery operated by Dignity Memorial®, part of Service Corporation International.

Website

Legacy Chapel at Arlington Memorial Park

The newest mausoleum at the cemetery and a one-of-a-kind offering in the United States when it opened in August 2024, Legacy Chapel at Arlington Memorial Park gives Atlanta-area families an elegant new place for memorialization. With pristine porcelain floors, stately granite walls and wraparound porches, the nearly 60,000-square-foot mausoleum houses granite-front niches outside and glass-front niches and crypts inside. It also includes 2,500 feet of indoor/outdoor space and a full catering kitchen, so families can honor their loved ones with personalized life celebrations and memorial receptions.

The venue is intimate enough for small gatherings and expansive enough for large groups. Three large chandeliers complement the natural lighting that floods the mausoleum during the day. Wi-fi and seven flat-screen monitors give families a multimedia experience with streaming music and tribute videos.

Service Corporation International

Service Corporation International, headquartered in Houston, Texas, is North America’s leading provider of death care products and services. As of September 30, 2016, SCI operates 1,531 funeral service locations and 471 cemeteries (including 262 combination locations), which are geographically diversified across 45 states, eight Canadian provinces, the District of Columbia, and Puerto Rico. Through its businesses, SCI markets the Dignity Memorial® brand, which offers assurance of quality, value, caring service and exceptional customer satisfaction. For more information about Service Corporation International, please go here. For more information about Dignity Memorial, please click here.

Topics Discussed in this Episode

00:00 Introduction and Welcome to North Fulton Business Radio
01:29 Guest Introduction: David Hass
02:55 Service Corp. International Overview
06:40 Legacy Chapel at Arlington Memorial Park
13:21 Trends in Funeral Services
16:28 Pre-Planning and Options
17:59 Conclusion 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 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.

About North Fulton Business Radio and host John Ray

With over 800 shows and having featured over 1,200 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 welcomes a wide variety of business, non-profit, and community leaders to get the word out about the important work they’re doing to serve their market, their community, and their 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 leans left. Some media leans right. We lean business.

John Ray, Business RadioX - North Fulton, and Owner, Ray Business Advisors — **John Ray, Business RadioX – North Fulton, and Owner, Ray Business Advisors**

John Ray is the host of North Fulton Business Radio. The show is recorded 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.

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

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.

Addressing the Workforce Housing Crisis in North Fulton, with Jack Murphy and Nancy Diamond, North Fulton Improvement Network

April 10, 2024 by John Ray

North Fulton Business Radio

Addressing the Workforce Housing Crisis in North Fulton, with Jack Murphy and Nancy Diamond, North Fulton Improvement Network

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Addressing the Workforce Housing Crisis in North Fulton, with Jack Murphy and Nancy Diamond, North Fulton Improvement Network (North Fulton Business Radio, Episode 760)

This episode of North Fulton Business Radio featured guests Jack Murphy and Nancy Diamond from the North Fulton Improvement Network. Jack and Nancy joined host John Ray to discuss the pressing issue of workforce housing, namely, affordable housing for essential workers, in North Fulton. The North Fulton Improvement Network started its work as the North Fulton Poverty Task Force, and evolved its focus towards addressing the broader economic development issue of accessible housing for those earning middle incomes, including teachers, nurses, and public officers. The dialogue also touched upon how this housing crisis impacts local schools, healthcare, and the overall economic development of North Fulton. Jack and Nancy emphasized the importance of community awareness, the role of government, private sector, and non-profit collaboration in addressing the issue, as well as potential solutions like changes in zoning laws and engaging the faith community in housing projects. The episode is a call to action for North Fulton residents and businesses to acknowledge and work on solutions for the workforce housing shortage.

To view the Future First: North Fulton Summit held on February 20, 2024, mentioned during the show, follow this link.

John Ray is the host of North Fulton Business Radio. The show is recorded and produced from the North Fulton studio of Business RadioX® inside Renasant Bank in Alpharetta.

North Fulton Improvement Network

In 2014, a group of nonprofit and community leaders joined forces as the North Fulton Poverty Task Force to focus on raising awareness for the needs of those living and working in the community who experience financial vulnerability. However, as our research demonstrated that living in our region is challenging at multiple income levels — including those well above poverty — we renamed our organization the North Fulton Improvement Network. Now, we are a think tank that gathers research, resources, and perspectives on the interconnected issues impacting our community.

The North Fulton Improvement Network serves as a platform to provide education on the reality of living in North Fulton County and to bring together resources that currently address financial vulnerability. We are a network made up of the whole community — businesses, stakeholders, nonprofits, faith-based organizations, political leaders, and the general public. With a central belief that we need all hands on deck to address these systemic issues, NFIN works to make North Fulton a thriving, equitable, and affordable community.

NFIN serves the six cities that comprise Georgia’s North Fulton region: Alpharetta, Johns Creek, Milton, Mountain Park, Roswell, and Sandy Springs. We center our work on five main areas— 1) workforce housing, (2) income and employment, (3) transportation, (4) child well-being, and (5) food insecurity. All of these aspects of community both impact and are impacted by financial vulnerability. By supporting innovative private and public solutions that address one or more of these fields, we believe that we can build a North Fulton that is thriving and prosperous for all community members.

Jack Murphy

Jack Murphy is a volunteer with The Society of St. Vincent de Paul and is Chair of the North Fulton Improvement Network. He is also in his 21st year of working for the Metro Atlanta Chamber of Commerce.

Prior to the Chamber, Jack worked for and with Fortune 500 companies in operations, human resources, training, and quality areas. Jack was a senior adjunct profession for Quality & Operations Management at Keller Graduate School for 14 years.

He has served on both the National and Georgia Boards of The Society of St. Vincent de Paul, responsible for Diversity, Advocacy, & Systemic Change. Jack currently is national SVDP chair of Systemic Change and Advocacy.

Jack received a BA in psychology from Belmont Abbey College and a M.Ed. from the UNC-Greensboro. Jack and his wife Nancy, a retired elementary school principal, have two grown daughters and two grandchildren. They live in Alpharetta, Georgia.

Nancy Diamond

Nancy Diamond is a Project Manager with Schmit & Associates, a real estate development firm, creating town center revitalization in communities all around the metro area.

Nancy served 8 years as a Roswell City Council Member, including a term as Mayor Pro Tem, with liaison positions with Community Development, Transportation, Recreation & Parks, and Public Safety.

In addition to her work with the North Fulton Improvement Network, Nancy has been active in area non-profit organizations, including board leadership positions in the STAR House Foundation, WellStar North Fulton Hospital, and the Roswell Rotary Club.

A native of Atlanta and a 42-year North Fulton resident, Nancy worked at Turner Broadcasting in the early years of CNN, then became a freelancer in sports television graphics. While raising her two daughters, she worked from home, first developing a corporate gift service, and later as a mortgage loan originator.

Nancy and her husband, Glenn, now relish the role of grandparents to 8-year-old Owen.

Topics Discussed in this Episode

00:00 Welcome to North Fulton Business Radio
01:23 Introducing Jack Murphy and Nancy Diamond from North Fulton Improvement Network
01:56 The Mission of North Fulton Improvement Network: Addressing Workforce Housing
03:02 From Poverty Task Force to Housing Focus: The Evolution of the North Fulton Improvement Network
04:17 The Economic and Social Impact of Workforce Housing
06:11 Understanding Affordable Housing: Definitions and Implications
07:50 Why Workforce Housing Matters to North Fulton
08:50 Challenges and Solutions in Affordable Housing
11:20 The Role of Government and Economic Development in Housing
18:42 Private Enterprise and Housing Solutions
20:46 The Impact of Housing on Schools and Communities
22:37 Exploring the Shift in Neighborhood Dynamics
23:21 The Housing Industry Disruption and Generational Preferences
24:38 Addressing Teacher Housing Challenges
25:56 Collaborative Solutions for Housing and Community Improvement
35:02 The Role of Faith-Based Organizations in Affordable Housing
37:09 Engaging Businesses and Communities in Housing Solutions
41:48 Closing Remarks and Resources for Further Engagement

About North Fulton Business Radio and host John Ray

With over 750 shows and having featured over 1,200 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 studio address is 275 South Main Street, Alpharetta, GA 30009.

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

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.

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.

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.

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

November 15, 2022 by John Ray

North Fulton Business Radio

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

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

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

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

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

Gloria Mattei, Owner, Nothing Bundt Cakes

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

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

Website

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

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

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

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Questions and Topics in the Interview

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

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

Renasant Bank has humble roots, starting in 1904 as a $100,000 bank in a Lee County, Mississippi, bakery. Since then, Renasant has grown to become one of the Southeast’s strongest financial institutions with over $13 billion in assets and more than 190 banking, lending, wealth management and financial services offices in Mississippi, Alabama, Tennessee, Georgia and Florida. All of Renasant’s success stems from each of their banker’s commitment to investing in their communities as a way of better understanding the people they serve. At Renasant Bank, they understand you because they work and live alongside you every day.

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The GNFCC 400 Insider: All Things Sandy Springs, An Interview With Jennifer Cruce, Visit Sandy Springs, and Andrea Worthy, City of Sandy Springs Economic Development

November 19, 2019 by John Ray

North Fulton Studio

The GNFCC 400 Insider: All Things Sandy Springs, An Interview With Jennifer Cruce, Visit Sandy Springs, and Andrea Worthy, City of Sandy Springs Economic Development

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**Jennifer Cruce, Kali Boatright, and Andrea Worthy**

“The GNFCC 400 Insider,” Episode 30, All Things Sandy Springs: An Interview with Jennifer Cruce, Visit Sandy Springs, and Andrea Worthy, City of Sandy Springs Economic Development

The dynamic economic activity in the City of Sandy Springs was discussed on this edition of “GNFCC 400 Insider,” as host Kali Boatright interviewed Jennifer Cruce, Executive Director of Visit Sandy Springs, and Andrea Worthy, Economic Development Director for the City of Sandy Springs.

Jennifer Cruce, Executive Director of Visit Sandy Springs

Jennifer Cruce was named Executive Director of Visit Sandy Springs in 2014. Visit Sandy Springs is the Destination Marketing Organization for the North Fulton city. Sandy Springs incorporated in 2005 and prides itself on being a place where residents decided on the development they wanted to see and experience.

As the director of hospitality and tourism, Jennifer showcases Sandy Springs’ restaurants, arts, culture and attractions. Prior to her current role, Jennifer was senior manager of marketing for Inside CNN Studio Tours at Turner Broadcasting for more than 10 years.

For more information go to the Visit Sandy Springs website. Email Jennifer or call 770-206-1447.

Andrea Worthy, Economic Development Director for the City of Sandy Springs

Andrea Worthy has served as Economic Development Director for the City of Sandy Springs since July 2018. For six years prior, she was Vice President of Economic Development for The Collaborative, which managed the city’s Economic Development until June 2018. Andrea is responsible for facilitating the location or expansion of local businesses.

Andrea is a former Redevelopment Director for Smyrna where she implemented the city’s Tax Allocation District. Her past economic development experience includes work as an independent consultant, as well as a manager of policy development at Mirant, an independent power producer and energy trading firm.

For more information go to the City of Sandy Springs website. Email Andrea or call 770-730-5600.

About GNFCC and “The GNFCC 400 Insider”

“The GNFCC 400 Insider” (formerly “North Atlanta’s Bizlink”) 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 the complete show archive of “The GNFCC 400 Insider,” go to GNFCC400Insider.com. “The GNFCC 400 Insider is produced by the North Fulton studio of Business RadioX®.

ATL Developments with Geoff Smith: Ann Hanlon, Perimeter Community Improvement Districts

May 28, 2019 by John Ray

North Fulton Business Radio

ATL Developments with Geoff Smith: Ann Hanlon, Perimeter Community Improvement Districts

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**Geoff Smith and Ann Hanlon on “ATL Developments with Geoff Smith”**

ATL Developments with Geoff Smith: An Interview with Ann Hanlon, Perimeter Community Improvement Districts

Host Geoff Smith speaks with Ann Hanlon, Executive Director of the Perimeter CIDs, on the history of community improvement districts in Georgia, why they are so important in economic and infrastructure development, and the project priorities for the Perimeter CIDs.

Ann Hanlon, Perimeter Community Improvement Districts

As Executive Director for the Perimeter Community Improvement Districts (PCIDs), Ann Hanlon is in charge of the organization’s daily operations, as well as its investments in transportation infrastructure. The Perimeter CIDs have an annual operating budget of $8 million.

Previously, Ann was the Executive Director of the the North Fulton CID for 12 years, beginning when it was a start-up. Prior to joining the North Fulton CID, Ann served as a Senior Program Specialist at the Atlanta Regional Commission. She began her career in the private sector, as a Research and Development Analyst with Press Ganey & Associates, a healthcare consulting firm in South Bend, Indiana.

A native of South Georgia, Ann received a Bachelor of Arts degree with a double major in Government and Computer Science from the University of Notre Dame, and a Masters of Public Administration degree in Management and Finance from Georgia State University.

Ann was honored as the “Woman of the Year” by the Women’s Transportation Seminar Atlanta Chapter in November 2016. In April 2015 and again in 2017, Governor Nathan Deal appointed Ann to the Board of Directors for the Georgia Regional Transportation Authority where she serves on the Projects and Planning committees. Ann was named “Business Woman of Excellence” by the Greater North Fulton Chamber of Commerce in 2019, selected as one of Atlanta Business Chronicle’s “40 under 40” in 2018, named a “Notable Georgian” by Georgia Trend Magazine in 2017, one of the Atlanta Business Chronicle’s “Women Who Mean Business” in 2015 and as one of Georgia Trend Magazine’s “40 under 40” in 2012.

Ann is a graduate of the Regional Leadership Institute of the Atlanta Regional Commission (2010) and Leadership North Fulton (2006). She currently serves as Vice Chairman of the Board of Directors for the Council for Quality Growth and will be the Council’s first female Chairman in 2019. Additionally, Ann serves on the Board of Directors for the Women’s’ Transportation Seminar, Atlanta Chapter, the Sandy Springs Chamber of Commerce, and the DeKalb Chamber of Commerce. She has been a citizen member of the “Shape Dunwoody” Comprehensive Plan committee, the North Fulton Poverty Task Force and was Co-Chair of the DeKalb County Charter Review Commission. She is a Chairman’s Circle member of the Greater North Fulton Chamber of Commerce, the Cobb Chamber of Commerce and the Georgia Chamber.

Personally, Ann is a volunteer with the Girl Scouts of Metro Atlanta, a member of All Saints Catholic Church and a sustainer with the Junior League of Atlanta. She lives in Dunwoody with her husband, Michael, and their two daughters, Elizabeth and Mary Catherine.

Geoff Smith, Host of “ATL Developments with Geoff Smith”

“ATL Developments with Geoff Smith” covers all things economic development in the Atlanta Metro area. From everything inside the Beltline to Avalon and beyond, Geoff Smith interviews the movers and shakers making the ATL one of the best places to live, work and play. An archive of past episodes can be found here.

Geoff Smith is a mortgage banker with Assurance Financial working with Real Estate agents and homebuyers to help them get happily to their closing table. Geoff is an authority on the latest economic development trends shaping the Atlanta Metro area. His interviews reveal an inside perspective at how things get done in the ATL.

Geoff is an active member of his community serving on the Board of Directors of the Greater North Fulton Chamber of Commerce, as well as holding the position of chairman for the Chamber’s Education Committee. He is also Secretary of the Roswell Youth Baseball Association and coaches his sons in football, baseball and basketball. Geoff enjoys golf, camping and traveling with his wife and two sons. He is a graduate of the University of Georgia.

“ATL Developments with Geoff Smith” is broadcast from the North Fulton studio of Business RadioX®, located inside Renasant Bank in Alpharetta. Renasant Bank has humble roots, starting in 1904 as a $100,000 bank in a Lee County, Mississippi, bakery. Since then, Renasant has grown to become one of the Southeast’s strongest financial institutions with approximately $12.9 billion in assets and more than 190 banking, lending, wealth management and financial services offices in Mississippi, Alabama, Tennessee, Georgia and Florida. All of Renasant’s success stems from each of their banker’s commitment to investing in their communities as a way of better understanding the people they serve. At Renasant Bank, they understand you because they work and live alongside you every day.

Special Episode with The Greater North Fulton Chamber of Commerce

February 26, 2016 by angishields

Atlanta Business Radio

Special Episode with The Greater North Fulton Chamber of Commerce

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8th Annual North Fulton Business Expo

Date: March 11, 2016 Time: 10:00 PM – 4:00 PM

The mission of the North Fulton Chamber is to be the catalyst for economic development, business growth, and quality of life in North Fulton.

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. We 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.

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Kendra Plotkin/GNFCC

Director of Operations

As Director of Operations, I have watched our Chamber grow along with our community. I am fortunate to work with a great team assisting businesses with resources and connections that will help their business grow. We represent the 6 cities of North Fulton. We offer opportunities to spotlight their business and network with their peers.

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Bonnie Mauldin / The Mauldin Group

Bonnie Mauldin aka “The Rainmaker” is a Senior SEO Specialist who has helped countless small and medium size business owners propel their business to greater heights. She is also a top-notch sales marketing copywriter who has published four bestselling books and has been featured on CNN, Fox News, The Huffington Post and The Atlanta Business Chronicle.

Bonnie is also the founder and CEO of The Mauldin Group, a North Fulton based company that specializes in providing world class yet affordable online marketing services designed to elevate small and medium sized businesses to the next level of success.

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