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GNFCC Leadership Transition: 2025 Highlights and 2026 Priorities

December 22, 2025 by John Ray

GNFCC Leadership Transition: Kali Boatright Talks 2025 Highlights and 2026 Priorities with Outgoing Chair Dean Collins and Incoming Chair Laura Madajewski, on the GNFCC 400 Insider podcast

BRX National

GNFCC Leadership Transition: 2025 Highlights and 2026 Priorities

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GNFCC Leadership Transition: Kali Boatright Talks 2025 Highlights and 2026 Priorities with Outgoing Chair Dean Collins and Incoming Chair Laura Madajewski (GNFCC 400 Insider, Episode 111)

Host Kali Boatright, President and CEO of the Greater North Fulton Chamber, marks a year-end leadership transition by reflecting on 2025 accomplishments and previewing 2026 priorities with outgoing Chair Dean Collins (Axis Infrastructure) and incoming Chair Laura Madajewski (HLB Gross Collins).

Dean looks back on a strong Chamber year, including continued momentum around regional collaboration and economic development, plus the Strategic Leadership Visit that took investor-level members to Mesa and Scottsdale to learn from innovation, redevelopment, and the role of arts, culture, and sports as economic drivers.

Laura shares her 2026 theme, “Forging Our Future,” and outlines what comes next: revisiting strategic planning, moving through the Chamber’s reaccreditation process, and revamping the NextGen (Young Professionals) program with stronger engagement, expanded programming, and an enhanced mentor match.

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

This is a true handoff episode: what 2025 proved, what 2026 will prioritize, and what continuity looks like when leadership changes without losing momentum.
“Forging Our Future” is not a slogan; it’s an operating stance: Laura Madajewski’s theme is about building forward, not maintaining.
2026 is a “systems year,” not a “more events” year: strategic planning refresh, reaccreditation work, and tightening how the Chamber measures and delivers impact.
NextGen is being rebuilt with intention: stronger engagement, refreshed programming, and a more meaningful mentor match approach.
The Chamber’s regional work keeps expanding: continued collaboration and economic development focus that goes beyond any one city.
Chair advice you can steal for your own leadership role: clear the calendar, show up, stay close to members, and ask the questions you need to ask.

Topics Discussed in this Episode

00:00 Introduction to the GNFCC 400 Insider podcast
00:41 Meet the 2025 and 2026 Chairs
01:42 Dean Collins Reflects on 2025
03:08 Laura Madajewski’s Journey and Vision
05:28 Accomplishments and Goals for the Chamber
08:47 Forging the Future: 2026 Plans
13:03 Public-Private Partnerships and Community Impact
17:41 Advice for the Incoming Chair
20:46 Leadership Styles and Final Thoughts
24:21 Closing Remarks and Contact Information

Laura Madajewski, 2026 Chair, and Principal, HLB Gross Collins P.C.

Laura E. Madajewski, CPA, MBA, is a Principal in the Audit and Advisory department at HLB Gross Collins P.C., bringing more than 16 years of public accounting experience with a focus on audits and financial statement preparation. She is known for helping clients strengthen internal controls, enhance governance and oversight, and streamline operations, approaching each engagement as a trusted advisor who tailors assurance and accounting solutions to the client’s specific needs.

Laura leads the firm’s Manufacturing, Distribution and Supply Chain Practice as well as its Employee Benefit Practice, and she has significant experience serving nonprofit organizations, including private schools, religious organizations, trade associations, and foundations.

Outside of work, Laura enjoys charitable and volunteer work throughout the Atlanta and North Fulton communities. She serves on the advisory board of Golf for The Kids, is Treasurer and a volunteer on the Board of Directors of The Drake House, has served as President and Secretary of the Song of Atlanta Show Chorus Board, and is President of the Sanctuary at Rivermont Homeowners’ Association Board of Directors.

She earned both her BBA and MBA in Accounting from Kennesaw State University.

Dean Collins, 2025 GNFCC Chair, and Founder & President, Axis Infrastructure

Dean Collins is the Founder and President of Axis Infrastructure, a firm he established in 2016 to address critical needs in the transportation and site development industries. With over 25 years of experience, Dean has cultivated a deep understanding of the complexities involved in land development projects, positioning Axis as a leader in the field. Under his leadership, Axis Companies has developed a comprehensive “Development Suite” that offers tailored services in land development, project management, and construction management, enabling clients to choose between individual services or complete turnkey solutions.

Before founding Axis, Dean served as Vice President and Director of Facilities at TYLIN International for nearly 23 years. In this role, he successfully led business development and design efforts for vertical projects across the Americas, managing a diverse team of architects, engineers, and construction managers. His extensive background in project management and design has been instrumental in shaping Axis Companies’ innovative approach.

Dean holds an Associates degree in Engineering from the State University of New York at Delhi and a Bachelor of Science in Civil Engineering from Rensselaer Polytechnic Institute.

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.

Kevin Johnson on Building a Sustainable Oral Surgery Practice

December 16, 2025 by John Ray

Dental Business Radio

Kevin Johnson on Building a Sustainable Oral Surgery Practice

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Kevin Johnson, Leverage Consulting, on Building an Oral Surgery Practice That Grows Without Burning You Out (Dental Business Radio, Episode 63)

Host Patrick O’Rourke welcomes Kevin Johnson, founder and CEO of Leverage Consulting, for a live, on-location conversation recorded in Orlando during the Florida Society of Oral and Maxillofacial Surgeons meeting. Kevin shares how he works with oral surgeons and high-performing dental specialists to move beyond surface-level practice management and build practices that support both profitability and quality of life.

The discussion explores why many practices stall despite strong clinical skills and how issues like inconsistent scheduling, weak new patient processes, overwhelmed practice managers, and lack of team accountability quietly limit growth. Kevin explains why real improvement starts with clarity of purpose, disciplined focus on a few priorities, and creating systems that allow the team, not just the doctor, to drive consistent results.

Kevin also addresses the personal side of practice ownership, including burnout, work-life imbalance, and the unique challenges faced by married entrepreneurs and partners working inside the same business. The conversation highlights why strategic planning, communication, and intentional leadership are essential to building a practice that works as an engine for both financial success and a sustainable life outside the office.

Dental Business Radio is underwritten and presented by Practice Quotient: PPO Negotiations & Analysis and produced by John Ray and the North Fulton affiliate of Business RadioX®.

Key Takeaways in This Episode

Practice growth requires more than clinical excellence. Strong production comes from systems, accountability, and team alignment, not just surgical skill.
The team, not the doctor alone, creates consistency. Scheduling, new patient processes, and role clarity allow practices to move beyond feast-or-famine production days.
Burnout is often a leadership and structure problem. Without clear priorities and boundaries, even high-performing practices can drain energy and purpose.
Focus beats overload. Progress accelerates when practices commit to a small number of high-impact priorities instead of chasing dozens of fixes at once.
A healthy practice supports a healthy life. Financial success, time away from the office, and personal fulfillment are connected, not competing goals.

Topics Discussed in this Episode

00:00 Welcome to Dental Business Radio
00:46 Introducing Our Sponsor: Practice Quotient
01:42 Meet Kevin Johnson: CEO of Leverage Consulting
03:26 Kevin’s Journey from Accounting to Consulting
05:50 The Importance of Work-Life Balance
08:20 Strategies for Practice Growth
12:22 The Role of a Good Practice Manager
15:23 Challenges in the Dental Industry
20:53 Interactive Q&A Session
23:27 Discussing the Audience Composition
24:25 The Challenge of Firing a Spouse
25:21 Balancing Family and Business
26:33 The Importance of Communication
31:31 Focusing on Common Goals
33:10 The Role of Practice Quotient
41:20 Concluding Remarks and Acknowledgements

Kevin Johnson, Founder and CEO, Leverage Consulting

Kevin Johnson is a recognized leader in the dental and medical communities, with a successful track record of helping practices transform into more profitable, more effective businesses. Over the past 17 years, Kevin has worked with hundreds of practices, ranging from startups to well-established multi-location and multi-doctor practices. Kevin has developed a series of innovative best practices tailored to each client to achieve optimal results.

Kevin provides insightful, experience-supported guidance on the clinical, administrative, marketing, and business issues affecting today’s medical and dental practices. He brings substantial experience working with various dental and medical office systems, which helps him improve operations from the inside out while using resources that are already in place. Kevin also brings a unique perspective to the office dynamics that affect staff performance and inter-office relations. He is able to provide instant feedback, based on real-world experience, so that clients can move forward quickly with new initiatives.

A professional speaker with experience in team building, tailored consulting solutions, and problem-solving, Kevin offers clients individualized training sessions, team-building seminars, and customized business consulting. He is results-driven and passionate about helping practices grow to their full potential and providing a better life at work for owners and staff along the way.

Leverage Consulting

Leverage Consulting is a boutique advisory firm that helps dental and medical professionals turn clinically strong practices into high‑performing businesses. It focuses on bridging the gap between medical training and entrepreneurship by installing customized systems for leadership, growth and profitability, reduced stress, and a more empowered team culture. Using their vast experience with many practices, from new ones to larger groups with multiple locations and doctors, the company focuses on practical solutions that can be applied directly in the office instead of just theoretical ideas, helping to make.

Founded and led by Kevin Johnson, a recognized leader in the dental and medical communities, Leverage Consulting combines strategic business coaching with hands‑on training for doctors, managers, and teams. The firm provides personalized consulting, workshops, and customized training that focus on improving clinical processes, office management, marketing, and teamwork, all aimed at achieving clear results like higher production, better collections, more new patients, and less daily stress for owners and staff.

Website | LinkedIn

Dental Business Radio covers the business side of dentistry. Host Patrick O’Rourke and his guests cover industry trends, insights, success stories, and more in this wide-ranging show. The show’s guests include successful doctors across the spectrum of dental practice providers, as well as trusted advisors and noted industry participants.

Dental Business Radio is underwritten and presented by Practice Quotient and produced by John Ray and North Fulton Business Radio, LLC, an affiliate of Business RadioX®. You can find the show on all major podcast apps and access the complete show archive here.

Practice Quotient

Practice Quotient is the sponsor of Dental Business Radio. Practice Quotient, Inc. serves as a bridge between the payor and provider communities. Their clients include general dentists and dental specialty practices across the nation of all sizes, from completely fee-for-service-only to active network participation with every dental plan possible. They work with independent practices, emerging multi-practice entities, and various large ownership entities in the dental space. Their PPO negotiations and analysis projects evaluate the merits of the various in-network participation contract options specific to your practice’s patient acquisition strategy. There is no one-size-fits-all solution.

Connect with Practice Quotient

Website | LinkedIn | Facebook | X (Twitter)

Keith Scott, KLSA, on Modernizing Government Operations

December 11, 2025 by John Ray

Keith Scott, K.L. Scott & Associates (KLSA), on Modernizing Government Technology, Strategic Planning, and Citizen Experience (North Fulton Business Radio, Episode 922), with host John Ray

North Fulton Business Radio

Keith Scott, KLSA, on Modernizing Government Operations

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Keith Scott, K.L. Scott & Associates (KLSA), on Modernizing Government Technology, Strategic Planning, and Citizen Experience (North Fulton Business Radio, Episode 922)

On this episode of North Fulton Business Radio, host John Ray welcomes Keith Scott, CEO of K.L. Scott & Associates (KLSA), a management and IT consulting firm based in Alpharetta. With over 32 years of experience, Scott helps federal, state, and local government agencies modernize their technology systems, break down operational silos, and deliver better outcomes for the communities they serve.

Scott discusses how government agencies face unique challenges, including aging technology infrastructure, workforce turnover with a third of government employees retiring in the next five years, and the need to compete with private sector organizations for top talent. He explains how KLSA helps agencies leverage data-driven decision-making, implement AI readiness assessments, and create strategic plans that survive beyond election cycles. Scott shares success stories, including helping a Maryland state agency redesign their customer call center operations and helping a Midwestern city retain talent by improving community engagement processes.

The conversation covers the importance of citizen feedback loops, how government agencies can attract mission-driven talent despite salary limitations, and the opportunities and challenges surrounding AI implementation in the public sector. Scott also discusses his Citizen Experience Podcast and the KLSA Academy, which provides training in AI skills, executive leadership, and workforce development for government employees.

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

Key Takeaways from This Episode

Government agencies must establish citizen feedback loops to understand how their services are being received and identify areas for improvement, rather than relying solely on outlier complaints or praise.
The government workforce faces a critical challenge with roughly a third of employees retiring within five years, creating a knowledge vacuum that requires succession planning and strategies to attract mission-driven talent.
AI presents opportunities for government agencies to accelerate outcomes and improve efficiency, but requires proper readiness assessments and business cases beyond basic chatbot implementations.
Cybersecurity and data vulnerability represent the biggest challenge facing government today, with increasing threats from automated attacks, account theft, and voice impersonation targeting vulnerable populations.

Topics Discussed in this Episode

00:20 John Ray introduces the show and guest Keith Scott
02:12 Keith Scott introduces KLSA and how the firm helps government agencies
03:07 Keith Scott’s career background from software developer to MBA to consulting
04:24 KLSA’s history serving 35-40 municipalities and federal agencies since 2013
05:12 The importance of citizen feedback loops in government service delivery
06:08 Challenges with continuity in government beyond election cycles
08:00 Why government agencies care about citizen experience and compete for taxpayer revenue
10:14 How community planning affects economic vitality, using Alpharetta’s North Point Mall area as an example
11:15 Data-driven decision-making and addressing legacy systems in government
12:35 Citizens compare government services to private sector experiences like Amazon
13:14 Breaking down silos between government departments like fire, education, and parks
15:13 Workforce challenges with government employees retiring and knowledge transfer
16:27 Attracting mission-driven talent versus competing on salary with private sector
17:17 How COVID affected younger workers’ need for mentorship and community
18:20 AI opportunities in government and building agentic AI tools
20:05 Big picture challenges facing government, including cybersecurity threats
21:20 The Citizen Experience Podcast and KLSA Academy
23:05 Symptoms that indicate a government agency needs strategic planning help
24:44 Success stories, including Maryland customer service redesign and Midwestern city talent retention
26:48 Contact information for KLSA

Keith L. Scott, Founder and Chief Executive Officer

Keith L. Scott is the Founder and Chief Executive Officer of K.L. Scott & Associates (KLSA), an Atlanta-based management and information technology consulting firm that helps government agencies modernize systems, strengthen operations, and deliver better outcomes for the communities they serve. With more than 32 years of experience at the intersection of technology, strategy, and public service, he is recognized as a trusted advisor to federal, state, and local government leaders navigating complex, high-stakes transformations.

Keith began his career in consulting with leading global firms, including Deloitte and Gartner, where he refined his analytical rigor, strategic insight, and commitment to excellence. In 2013, he co-founded KLSA to bring large-firm expertise with the speed, flexibility, and personal attention of a boutique consultancy. Under his leadership, the firm has grown into a national advisory partner with offices in Atlanta and Washington, D.C., supporting more than 30 public-sector organizations and earning distinctions such as SBA 8(a) certification, ISO 9001 quality certification, and a GSA Multiple Award Schedule contract.

His work centers on helping government agencies modernize technology, leverage data and AI for better decision-making, improve organizational performance, and enhance the citizen experience. Keith’s leadership philosophy reflects a balance of analytics and empathy, ensuring that every modernization effort stays rooted in people, impact, and community outcomes.

Keith also serves as the host of The Citizen Experience Podcast, where he interviews leaders, innovators, public officials, and industry experts about government transformation, technology, and the future of public service. His thought leadership has positioned him as a sought-after advisor on topics ranging from AI adoption to strategic planning to operational excellence in government.

He holds a B.S. in Computer Science, an MBA in Organizational Strategy, and certification in Business Analytics. When he is not advising clients, speaking, or recording new podcast episodes, he is committed to mentoring emerging professionals and supporting community-driven initiatives.

K.L. Scott & Associates (KLSA)

K.L. Scott & Associates (KLSA) is a management and information technology consulting firm headquartered in Atlanta, Georgia, with an additional office in Washington, D.C. Founded in 2013, the firm helps government agencies and mission-driven organizations modernize their technology, improve operational performance, and deliver better outcomes for the communities they serve. Guided by the belief that effective government strengthens quality of life for all residents, KLSA blends data-driven insight with practical, people-centered solutions.

KLSA provides a full range of consulting services including IT modernization, artificial intelligence and advanced analytics, strategy and operational improvement, organizational design, change management, workforce development, and program implementation support. The firm’s approach combines rigorous analysis with empathetic leadership, ensuring that every recommendation can be successfully executed and sustained.

KLSA holds several key federal certifications and contracting vehicles, including SBA 8(a) status, ISO 9001 quality certification, and the GSA Multiple Award Schedule (MAS) contract. These designations reflect the firm’s disciplined management practices and make it easy for government customers to partner with them. KLSA also supports clients through its 8(a) joint venture, K2K Ohana, which expands delivery capacity across digital transformation, cybersecurity, AI enablement, and mission-critical federal programs.

The firm has delivered successful outcomes for more than 30 federal, state, and local agencies across the country. Their work spans sectors such as human services, public safety, transportation, education, and finance, helping government leaders respond to modernization pressures, rising citizen expectations, and evolving workforce needs.

Driven by a commitment to service, ethics, and measurable impact, KLSA continues to help public-sector organizations operate more efficiently, use data more intelligently, and deliver a better citizen experience.

Website | LinkedIn

Renasant Bank supports North Fulton Business Radio

Renasant Bank has humble roots, having started in 1904 as a $100,000 bank located in a Lee County, Mississippi, bakery. Since then, Renasant has grown into one of the Southeast’s strongest financial institutions, boasting over $26 billion in assets and more than 280 offices offering banking, lending, wealth management, and financial services throughout the region. All of Renasant’s success stems from the commitment of each banker to invest in the communities they serve, which in turn helps them better understand the people they serve. At Renasant Bank, their banking professionals understand you because they work and live alongside you every day.

Beyond Computer Solutions supports North Fulton Business Radio

Whether you’re a law firm, medical practice, or manufacturer, there’s one headline you don’t want to make: “Local Business Pays Thousands in Ransom After Cyberattack.” That’s where Beyond Computer Solutions comes in. They help organizations like yours stay out of the news and in business with managed IT and cybersecurity services designed for industries where compliance and reputation matter most.

Whether they serve as your complete IT department or simply support your internal team, they are well-versed in HIPAA, secure document access, written security policies, and other essential aspects that ensure your safety and well-being. Best of all, it starts with a complimentary security assessment.

Website | LinkedIn | Facebook | YouTube

About North Fulton Business Radio and host John Ray

With over 900 episodes and having featured over 1,400 guests, North Fulton Business Radio is the longest-running podcast in the North Fulton area, covering business in our community like no one else. We are the undisputed “Voice of Business” in North Fulton!

The show invites a diverse range of business, non-profit, and community leaders to share their significant contributions to their respective markets, communities, and professions. There is no discrimination based on company size, and there is never any “pay to play.” North Fulton Business Radio supports and celebrates businesses by sharing positive stories that traditional media ignore. Some media lean left. Some media lean right. We lean business.

John Ray, host of North Fulton Business Radio, and Owner, Ray Business Advisors — **John Ray, host of *North Fulton Business Radio* and Owner, Ray Business Advisors**

John Ray is the host of North Fulton Business Radio. John and the team at North Fulton Business Radio, LLC, an affiliate of Business RadioX®, produce the show, which is recorded inside Renasant Bank in Alpharetta.

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

You can find the entire archive of shows by following this link. The show is accessible on all major podcast apps, such as Apple Podcasts, Spotify, Google, Amazon, iHeart Radio, and many others.

John Ray also operates his own business advisory practice. John’s services include advising solopreneurs and small professional services firms on their value, their positioning and business development, and their pricing. His clients are professionals who are selling their expertise, such as consultants, coaches, attorneys, CPAs, accountants, bookkeepers, marketing professionals, and other professional services practitioners.

John is the author of the five-star rated book, The Generosity Mindset: A Journey to Business Success by Raising Your Confidence, Value, and Prices, praised by readers for its practical insights on raising confidence, value, and prices.

Succession Planning with Steve Fisher and Bryan Preston

November 13, 2025 by John Ray

Family Business Radio

Succession Planning with Steve Fisher and Bryan Preston

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Succession Planning with Steve Fisher and Bryan Preston (Family Business Radio, Episode 70)

In this episode of Family Business Radio, host Anthony Chen is joined by Steve Fisher from Strategy Partners Group and Bryan Preston from Gaelic Business Solutions for a candid conversation about the real challenges that prevent family businesses from growing and transitioning successfully.

Steve shares how his journey from being an engineer to becoming a longtime CFO, which included navigating a stressful acquisition and downsizing, ultimately led him to advise business owners on strategic, operational, and financial issues. He explains why most businesses plateau because the owner becomes the bottleneck, how weak financial reporting and “shoebox” accounting quietly destroy valuation, and why a buyer is purchasing the company’s future potential, not the owner’s heroic history.

Bryan draws on his corporate background and his experience growing up in a declining mill town to explain why healthy small businesses are vital to the communities they serve. He discusses the danger of running a family business like a family instead of a business, how to free up owner time by building repeatable processes and delegating effectively, and why owners should be spending a significant portion of their week working on the business instead of just in it.

Together, Steve and Bryan present practical low-hanging fruit that family business owners can address immediately, including establishing clean books and standard operating procedures, as well as tackling difficult questions about succession, legacy, and the true requirements for successfully passing the torch.

Family Business Radio is underwritten and brought to you by Anthony Chen with Lighthouse Financial Network. The show is produced by John Ray and the North Fulton affiliate of Business RadioX®.

Key Takeaways from This Episode

Start with the end in mind. Steve says owners should think about their exit when starting a business, as every owner will leave eventually, and the only question is how much control they will have over that transition.
Owner dependency kills value. Both guests note that the greater the business’s reliance on the owner’s daily involvement and crisis management, the less attractive and valuable it becomes to potential buyers or future successors.
Clean financials are nonnegotiable. Many family businesses rely on checkbook accounting or neglect their balance sheets and cash flow, making it difficult to run the company and even harder to sell it. Establishing solid, understandable financial statements is a foundational step.
Documented processes are an asset. Written, current, and consistently followed standard operating procedures make a business more turnkey, easier to scale, and significantly more appealing to successors or acquirers who need to understand how operations function without the owner’s presence.
Delegation is about trust and monitoring. When owners refuse to delegate responsibilities to capable team members, it often indicates a trust issue, either regarding the employee or the owner’s ability to supervise effectively. Learning to delegate tasks and then monitor the results is essential for growth.
Family must act like a business at work. Bryan highlights that family dynamics, charitable payroll decisions, and unresolved personal issues can undermine performance and value. Buyers will not pay to support family dynamics, so these issues must be addressed well before any transition.

Topics Discussed in this Episode

00:00 Introduction to Family Business Radio

00:41 Meet Steve Fisher: From Engineer to CFO

02:03 The Rise of Fractional CFO Services

03:16 Challenges in Family Businesses

05:10 Succession Planning Insights

08:09 Personal Experience and Lessons Learned

10:01 Common Mistakes in Family Businesses

12:30 The Importance of Delegation

19:28 Unique Client Stories

21:53 Future Aspirations and Goals

24:52 Introduction to Bryan Preston

25:02 Bryan’s Corporate Journey

25:46 Helping Small Businesses

29:07 Challenges in Delegation

30:51 Vision and Growth

33:13 Succession Planning

36:15 Family Business Dynamics

38:15 Final Thoughts and Contact Information

43:51 Closing Remarks and Financial Advice

Steve Fisher, Founding Partner, Strategy Partners Group

Steve Fisher, Strategy Partners Group, on Family Business Radio with host Anthony Chen — **Steve Fisher, Strategy Partners Group**

Steve Fisher is the founder of Strategy Partners Group and brings more than 30 years of leadership experience as a CFO, management consultant, and advisor to growing companies. With a background in industrial engineering from Virginia Tech and a long tenure as CFO of a national financial services firm, he helps business owners and executive teams improve financial performance, manage risk, and build companies that are prepared for growth or exit. His expertise includes financial analysis and modeling, regulatory compliance, process improvement, and building monitoring and accountability systems that support better decision-making.

Known for making complex financial topics understandable to non-financial leaders, Steve has co-developed and delivered “Finance for Everyone,” contributed as a subject matter expert to executive training programs, and spoken to groups ranging from Emory University’s continuing education programs to private business networks. Through Strategy Partners Group, he works with C-suite leaders to design and support strategic, value-enhancing initiatives across their organizations, including succession and exit strategy planning.

Website | LinkedIn

Bryan Preston, Owner, Gaelic Business Solutions, LLC

Bryan Preston is the owner of Gaelic Business Solutions, LLC, a consulting firm focused on small and mid-sized businesses. He brings more than 30 years of executive experience from large organizations, where he served in roles such as Vice President of People and Culture, Senior Vice President of Talent Management and Community Relations, Interim CIO, Senior Vice President of Marketing and Product Management, Managing Director of New Product Development, Vice President and Business Unit Leader, and Vice President of Operations. Bryan holds a bachelor’s degree in quantitative economics from Framingham State University. Bryan has been married to his wife, Lori, for 39 years, and together they have three grown children and five grandchildren.

Gaelic Business Solutions partners with mid-market leaders who have outgrown basic business tactics but do not fit the mold for enterprise playbooks. Using its Mid-Market Optimization Method™, the firm provides strategic advice grounded in Bryan’s cross-industry executive experience. The focus is on practical, executive-level insight tailored for operators who want results and clarity, not theoretical frameworks or unnecessary complexity that slows execution.

Website | LinkedIn

Anthony Chen, Host of Family Business Radio

Family Business Radio is sponsored and brought to you by Anthony Chen with Lighthouse Financial Network. Securities and advisory services are offered through OSAIC, member FINRA/SIPC. RAA is separately owned, and other entities and/or marketing names, products, or services referenced here are independent of OSAIC. The main office address is 575 Broadhollow Rd., Melville, NY 11747. You can reach Anthony at 631-465-9090, ext. 5075, or by email at anthonychen@lfnllc.com.

Anthony Chen started his career in financial services with MetLife in Buffalo, NY, in 2008. Born and raised in Elmhurst, Queens, he considers himself a full-blooded New Yorker while now enjoying his Atlanta, GA, home. Specializing in family businesses and their owners, Anthony works to protect what is most important to them. From preserving to creating wealth, Anthony partners with CPAs and attorneys to help address all of the concerns and help clients achieve their goals. By using a combination of financial products ranging from life, disability, and long-term care insurance to many investment options through Royal Alliance, Anthony looks to be the eyes and ears for his client’s financial foundation. In his spare time, Anthony is an avid long-distance runner.

Follow this link to access the complete show archive of Family Business Radio.

Cary Matthews, Adam Marshall, and Jonathan Bill on Guiding Family Businesses

September 17, 2025 by John Ray

Family Business Radio

Cary Matthews, Adam Marshall, and Jonathan Bill on Guiding Family Businesses

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Cary Matthews, Adam Marshall, and Jonathan Bill on Guiding Family Businesses (Family Business Radio, Episode 68)

On this episode of Family Business Radio, host Anthony Chen sits down with three leaders who specialize in helping family businesses grow, plan, and prepare for the future. Cary Matthews of Opal Partners Group draws on his Fortune 50 and small business background to help companies clarify their identity, strategy, and culture. Adam Marshall of Lorium Law explains how his firm combines technical excellence with a human approach to risk management, transactions, and succession planning. Jonathan Bill of SBS Accounting and Advisors shares how his firm frees entrepreneurs from back-office burdens, delivering accurate books, timely financials, and proactive guidance. Together, they show how strategy, law, and financial discipline intersect to build strong family business legacies.

Family Business Radio is underwritten and brought to you by Anthony Chen with Lighthouse Financial Network. The show is produced by John Ray and the North Fulton affiliate of Business RadioX®.

Key Takeaways from This Episode

Cary Matthews emphasizes clarity on identity and culture as the foundation of strategy.
Adam Marshall shifted from “big law” to client-centered legal practice to focus on relationships and assisting clients in making informed choices.
Jonathan Bill sees accurate, timely financials as essential for growth, lending, and exit planning.
Strategic planning, legal foresight, and sound bookkeeping intersect in family business success.
Host Anthony Chen emphasizes that beyond dollars and cents, family businesses need clarity of purpose and must tie financial planning to personal meaning and legacy.

Topics Discussed in this Episode

00:00 Introduction to Family Business Radio
00:47 Cary Matthews’ Journey from COO to Business Strategist
02:14 The Importance of Organizational Structure
04:05 Common Challenges in Small Businesses
08:36 The Role of Strategy in Business Growth
12:01 Introducing Adam Marshall and His Legal Journey
14:52 Building Client Relationships in Law
18:50 The Importance of Risk Management and Pragmatism
25:21 The Importance of Foundational Documents
26:56 Preparing for Business Exits
28:20 Family Business Transitions
32:03 Introducing Jonathan Bill
32:10 The Origin Story of SBS Accounting
36:30 Unique Aspects of SBS Accounting
45:54 Legacy and Business Values
50:43 Anthony’s Financial Corner

Cary Matthews, Opal Partners Group

Cary Matthews is the Managing Partner of Opal Partners Group, LLC (OPG), where he helps small business owners and leadership teams get unstuck, achieve their goals, and build businesses they enjoy. As a strategy coach and fractional executive, he draws on more than two decades of experience leading operational improvement and growth in small businesses.

Before founding OPG, Cary served as COO and EVP of Operations for several Atlanta-area companies, overseeing project management, support services, accounting, HR, engineering, and logistics. His leadership produced measurable results, including reducing invoicing time by 80%, boosting gross profit by 10% while managing a 30% increase in sales, and cutting training development costs by 30%. Earlier in his career, Cary worked for Fortune 100 companies and a start-up, experiences that built the foundation for his passion and expertise in small business leadership.

Cary holds a Bachelor of Electrical Engineering and an MBA from Auburn University.

Website | LinkedIn

Adam Marshall, Lorium Law

Adam Marshall focuses his practice on matters dealing with corporations, with an emphasis on corporate restructuring, bankruptcy, and distressed M&A. Adam has represented debtors, creditors, corporations, lenders, funds, and buyers and sellers of assets in numerous industries, including retail, food service, real estate, healthcare, automotive, energy, and financial services.

Further, Adam counsels business owners/C-level executives on general corporate matters, including structuring, financing, operational needs, and liquidity events/strategies. Adam began his career as an attorney with several national and international law firms, including White & Case and Greenberg Traurig, working in the restructuring and distressed M&A practice areas.

He has practiced law since 1999 and lived in Florida for 21 years, until recently relocating to the Atlanta area with his wife Stefanie and two sons, Joshua (Duke ’23) and Alexander (University of Michigan LSA Honors ‘26).

Website | LinkedIn

Jonathan Bill, SBS Accounting

Jonathan Bill owns SBS Accounting & Advisors. Jonathan grew up in a small business and seeing his dad struggle to start a new business is what gave him his heart to help entrepreneurs. As a result, Jonathan started his company in 2006 with a passion to free and empower small businesses—”free” by taking their back-office responsibilities off their plate and “empower” by providing them with the key metrics and coaching in order to meet their goals. Since 2006, Jonathan and his companies have had the privilege of bringing this transformation to hundreds of organizations.

Outside of work, Jonathan enjoys spending time with his family and ministering in his church in the area of music.

Website | LinkedIn

Anthony Chen, Host of Family Business Radio

Follow this link to access the complete show archive of Family Business Radio.

Navigating and Transforming Toxic Workplace Cultures E43

August 29, 2024 by Karen

Navigating-and-Transforming-Toxic-Workplace-Cultures-Feature

Phoenix Business Radio

Navigating and Transforming Toxic Workplace Cultures E43

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Navigating and Transforming Toxic Workplace Cultures E43

In a recent episode of the Culture Crush Business podcast hosted by Kindra Maples, Catherine Mattice, CEO of Civility Partners, and Danielle Pener, Principal Attorney at Alta Employment Law Workplace Investigations, collaborated to illuminate the intricate dynamics of tackling toxic workplace cultures.

Throughout their engaging dialogue, Catherine and Danielle explored the nuances of managing workplace culture, emphasizing the dual challenges of reactive responses to crises and proactive strategies for preventing them. They discussed the triggers prompting organizations to seek their expertise, ranging from public scandals to internal acknowledgments of systemic issues, underscoring the complexity of organizational dynamics.

Are you looking for a little more guidance in how to tackle improving culture in a toxic workplace? This is your episode to listen to!

Kindra Maples and her guests advocated for a comprehensive approach to workplace culture management, advocating for ethical leadership that prioritizes both employee well-being and organizational effectiveness.

Civility Partners is a strategic organizational development firm that collaborates with clients to foster positive work environments. Their array of services encompasses executive coaching, corporate training, and extensive culture change initiatives. They specialize in aiding organizations plagued by cultures of harassment, discrimination, and bullying to bolster employee engagement, refine performance management, enhance management effectiveness, and more.

Their dedication stems from a profound desire to alleviate the suffering experienced by countless individuals in the workplace. This genuine concern for employee well-being serves as the driving force behind their endeavors.

Catherine Mattice, MA, SPHR, SHRM-SCP, is the founder/CEO of Civility Partners, a strategic organizational development firm focused on helping organizations create respectful workplace cultures and specializing in turning around toxic cultures. Civility Partners’ clients range from Fortune 500’s to small businesses across many industries.

Catherine is a TEDx speaker and an HR thought-leader who has appeared in such venues as USA Today, Bloomberg, CNN, NPR, and many other national news outlets as an expert. She’s an award-winning speaker, author and blogger, and has 50+ courses reaching global audiences on LinkedIn Learning.

Catherine’s award-winning book, BACK OFF! Your Kick-Ass Guide to Ending Bullying at Work, was hailed by international leadership-guru, Ken Blanchard, as, “the most comprehensive and valuable handbook on the topic.”

Connect with Catherine on LinkedIn and follow Civility Partners on Facebook, X and Instagram.

Alta Employment Law is a workplace investigations law firm based in California with offices in San Francisco and San Diego. The attorneys conduct neutral third-party workplace investigations for companies of all sizes that need to meet their legal obligations to conduct prompt, thorough and independent workplace investigations into employee claims of harassment, discrimination, and other workplace misconduct.

The attorneys of Alta Employment Law are disciplined, detail-oriented and adaptive. They excel at defining and containing scope and maintaining clear lines of communication with clients. They are approachable and deeply committed to maintaining neutrality throughout the process. A key to their success is creating an environment in which each participant can be forthcoming in interviews. This allows them to achieve unmatched levels of quality in the evidence they gather.

With decades of experience in employment law, including years as in-house counsel, and more than a decade conducting investigations for companies of all sizes, the attorneys understand the hallmarks of excellent investigations. Clients can feel confident that their conclusions will always be well-reasoned and that the findings delivered will withstand scrutiny.

Danielle Pener has been practicing employment law for over two decades. In addition to working at both large and small law firms, she served as in-house employment law counsel at a Fortune 500 company and a Bay Area technology company.

In 2015, she founded Alta Employment Law to meet a growing need for workplace investigations and employment law advice and counsel, but quickly found that her passion lay in investigations. She loves being able to bring all of her experience, skills and talents to helping employees and employers navigate the complexities of the modern workplace.

Exclusive focus on investigations has allowed Danielle to refine her process such that she is able to efficiently and effectively gather relevant facts regardless of a client’s sector or size. She has investigated complaints in settings ranging from professional services to manufacturing, high tech to hospitality, at Fortune 100 companies, large and small privately-held companies, and nonprofit organizations. She also has a well-developed toolkit for managing complexities such as complaints that involve executives, witnesses represented by counsel, reluctant witnesses and situations involving multiple complainants.

Throughout her career, Danielle has been recognized for being thoughtful and meticulous. Clients appreciate her skillful management of the investigation process, and referring attorneys recommend her to their clients based on the excellent quality of her work.

Danielle is a member of the State Bar of California and the Association of Workplace Investigators (AWI). She is an AWI Certificate holder, leads AWI’s Workplace Investigation Basics seminars for those learning investigations, and has spoken at the AWI Annual Conference.

Danielle also holds inactive bar licenses in Missouri and Kansas. She graduated Phi Beta Kappa from Washington University in St. Louis, with a double major in Political Science and Women’s Studies, and was in the top 20% of her class at UC Davis School of Law.

Connect with Danielle on LinkedIn.

About Culture Crush

At Culture Crush, culture isn’t just a corporate buzzword. It’s a key factor that can either boost your company or lead to its failure.

We’re culture consultants, with a focus on leadership, appreciation, communication, processes, accessibility, mental health, diversity, inclusion, and creating a dynamic workplace.

As a growing company:

Culture Crush Business is your hub for company culture resources. With deep cultural insights and years of expertise, we evaluate your company’s needs and connect you with the precise resources to cultivate a thriving culture.

We work with CEOs, founders, HR Directors, or Culture Leaders of companies or teams, who value company culture and understand its impact on their business success.With Culture Crush you’ll learn how to transform your workplace into a place of unity, efficiency, and growth. Don’t just fix your company culture – transform it with Culture Crush Business.

On this podcast: We focus on everything surrounding businesses with good company culture. We will talk with company leaders to learn about real-life experiences, tips, and best practices for creating a healthy work environment where employees are finding joy and satisfaction in their work while also striving and growing within the company. We share the resources to help improve company culture and showcase them on the podcast with their tips and tricks for growing culture.

About the Host

Kindra Maples is spartan racer, past animal trainer, previous magician’s assistant, and has a weakness for Oreo cookie shakes. Her journey working with people actually started working with animals as a teenager (don’t worry we won’t go that far back for her bio).

She worked for over 15 years in the zoo industry working with animals and the public. Her passion of working with animals shifted into working with people in education, operations and leadership roles. From there her passion of leadership and helping people develop has continued to grow.

Then came the opportunity for leading the Culture Crush Business Podcast and she jumped on it. Leadership, growth, and strong company cultures are all areas that Kindra is interested in diving into further.

Thank you for our Sponsor!

This episode is sponsored by Gateway Bank, a community bank in Arizona that specializes in serving small businesses across the Valley and the country.

When you work with Gateway, you don’t have to call an 800 number for support, or submit your loan application and wait weeks or months for an answer. You get fast, personal service from a team who knows you and cares about you.

When Gateway was founded in 2007, the team had a vision of building a hometown bank that prioritizes people over profits. Over 15 years later, they’re proud to still be one of the highest-performing AND highest-rated community banks around.

Whether you need a loan or banking services for your business, Gateway is here to help. Visit gcbaz.com/culturecrush for details and a free consultation with bank President James Christensen.

All loans subject to approval. Member FDIC.

Strategically Planning for 2025 and Beyond S2E5

July 31, 2024 by Karen

Strategically-Planning-for-2025-and-Beyond-feature

Phoenix Business Radio

Strategically Planning for 2025 and Beyond S2E5

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Strategically Planning for 2025 and Beyond S2E5

In this episode of “The Future of Work”, hosts Al Loveland and Kyle McIntosh introduce their guests, Scott Romeo and Ed Wold. Scott, a seasoned strategy expert, and Ed, a patent agent, discuss their backgrounds and emphasize the importance of a strategic approach in business, exploring the balance between immediate actions and long-term goals.

The conversation delves into practical aspects of strategy, intellectual property, and pricing, highlighting their dynamic work and tailored services like “Strategy in a Day” and “Going Global.” They also announce the “Strategy Fest” on August 22nd at Mac 6 and bi-weekly “strategy lunch and learns” starting after Labor Day, concluding with personal stories and a call to action for further engagement.

Business leaders who are begining to plan for 2025 and beyond. They will learn concepts that will help their oganization stratgically and operationally. The basic concepts will inspire thoughts that will lead to ideas and initiatives driving improved business results.

THE STRATEGY EXPERT® helps organizations grow from where they are today to where they want to be. They provide strategic guidance to organizations from startups, small business owners, midsized companies, multinational corporations, and nonprofits in over 80 industries across the globe.

Scott Romeo has been a strategic planning/strategy consultant working with clients all over the world in over 80 industries for the past 32 years. He has a unique ability to quickly assess an organization’s current state and help design strategies to help them get from where they are today to where they need to be.

He has worked with startups, Fortune 500 Companies, and multinational corporations in the US and throughout Asia. He has been teaching strategies at the university level for the past 25 years at both the undergraduate and graduate level.

Along the way, he has written three books on strategy, one of which is recommended reading at a business management school in Belgium. He is the strategist that executive teams want at the table when they are considering their future growth and next strategic moves.

Edwin Wold is a registered US Patent Agent, author, and business and management consultant with experience working at the strategic, operational, and functional levels of organizations.

With an undergraduate degree in mechanical engineering, a master’s degree in Project Engineering Management, and an Executive Juris Doctorate with a specialization in contracts and patent protection, Edwin has a history of helping clients grow from “concept to cash” with an emphasis on adding more profit to the bottom line.

Edwin interacts with management and leadership to analyze the constraints/needs/aspirations of the business and helps guide them to strategically apply business approaches to help take the company to the next level. This is often centered around helping to create and protect the IP of an innovative product or introducing a new or improved product or service to the global market.

Follow The Strategy Expert on LinkedIn and X.

ABOUT THE FUTURE OF WORK

Welcome to Future of Work Radio Show and Podcast – where business leaders share how they integrate humanity and technology through innovative approaches, healthy culture, flexible workspaces and seamless virtual technology.

ABOUT YOUR CO-HOSTS

With a focus in marketing and a background in various for profit and not for profit companies, including much professional and volunteer work, Kyle McIntosh wondered, “How can I pair the passion and commitment to community progress of a non-profit with the sustainability and reach of a for profit company?”

From this question and perspective a mission evolved to tear down the false distinction between the two sectors and to promote companies with Conscious Capitalism® business models through MAC6.

Albert Loveland has joined the MAC⁶ Team full-time. Al will be helping us to takeMAC⁶ to the next level as Vice President of Operations(and, for all of you who are familiar with EOS, as the MAC⁶Integrator).

Al brings over 25 years of experience in leadership and operational efficiency, first working for JPMorgan Chase for fifteen years and then, for the past decade, with his own consulting business working with small businesses, non-profits, and entrepreneurs.

Al has been working from MAC⁶ as a community member for five years now, acting as the unofficial ‘Mayor of MAC⁶’and helping every day to make this community a great place to be. Please join us in congratulating him as the now Official Mayor of MAC⁶ and as an integral new part of our team!

To learn more about MAC6 Communities, call 480-293-4075 or find them on LinkedIn and Facebook.

ABOUT OUR SPONSOR

MAC⁶ offers flexible spaces and programs to help your team grow, and a community of thriving businesses, just like yours. Advocating Capitalism as a Force for Good, MAC6 is Accelerating the shift to Conscious Capitalism (where Purpose and Profit Unite) through Creativity, Collaboration, Community and Change.

Tools for Collaboration and Success: A Chat with Apex Global Solutions

April 11, 2024 by Karen

Phoenix Business Radio

Tools for Collaboration and Success: A Chat with Apex Global Solutions

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Tools for Collaboration and Success: A Chat with Apex Global Solutions

The podcast episode features an insightful conversation between Karen Nowicki, Rick Bowers, and Ashley Bowers of Apex GTS Advisors, Inc. Together, they explore the challenges faced by C-suite leaders and the importance of embracing outside assistance to align strategies with company culture. Rick and Ashley share their experiences in facilitating change within organizations, emphasizing the significance of tailored solutions, communication, and trust. Throughout the conversation, they underscore the importance of collaboration, transparent communication, and setting realistic goals grounded in strategic realism. Additionally, they touch on the psychological benefits of visual brainstorming and the role of tools like ChatGPT in streamlining collaborative work processes.

They discuss the significance of their strong bond and shared values in driving their success. The interview concludes with insights into upcoming events and opportunities to connect with Apex GTS Advisors, Inc., leaving listeners with a deeper understanding of effective leadership, problem-solving, and building thriving organizational cultures.

Apex GTS Advisors is recognized as a beacon of strategic guidance and operational finesse in organizational development. Owing to decades of collective experience, the team at ApexGTS has established a sterling reputation for excellence in talent management, operational strategy, and driving sustained growth. The firm is convinced that every organization is unique and deserves a bespoke approach tailored to its distinct challenges and opportunities.

The journey toward success at ApexGTS commences with an immersive dive into the intricacies of the client’s business facilitated by a meticulous intake process. This journey of discovery serves as the foundation for crafting solutions that address immediate needs and lay the groundwork for sustainable success. The firm remains committed to understanding the aspirations of both employees and customers, ensuring that its interventions resonate deeply and foster a workplace environment that celebrates individuality and cultivates collective excellence.

ApexGTS Advisors empowers leaders to navigate the complexities of organizational dynamics with clarity and purpose by employing a blend of objective analysis and innovative thinking. By offering fresh perspectives and unveiling untapped potential, the firm illuminates a clear path forward, guiding clients toward their apex of achievement. With ApexGTS as a trusted ally, organizations embark on a transformative journey, poised to unlock their full potential and thrive.

Rick Bowers, a native of Iowa and shaped by Midwest values, epitomizes the essence of hard work, determination, and delivering exceptional outcomes. Growing up in an environment that instilled the virtues of getting up early and putting in the effort, he fully comprehends what it takes for individuals and organizations to ascend to greatness and reach their Apex.

Throughout his career, Rick has dedicated himself to unraveling the intricacies of understanding each individual’s unique strengths and leveraging them to meet the needs and aspirations of the companies they serve. His journey began at Arizona State University, where he embarked on a path with TTI Success Insights, an organization specializing in assessments and talent development. Rick’s commitment and contributions propelled him through various roles within the company, ultimately culminating in his appointment as its president, overseeing consultants worldwide.

Inspired by his passion for personal and professional development, Rick actively engages in the industry. He is a valued member of multiple prestigious boards, including two advisory boards at HR.com and the Hartman Institute. In addition, Rick proudly holds a council position on the National Alumni Association at his alma mater, Arizona State University. Furthermore, he has had the privilege of presenting his esteemed Leadership Engagement workshop to numerous ASU Alumni Leadership Institute classes. Through these influential roles, Rick serves as a trusted ambassador and advisor, utilizing his expertise to propel the growth and success of these esteemed institutions and his clients.

In 2022, Rick established Apex GTS Advisors by drawing upon his wealth of experience assisting consultants and organizations. With a firm belief in helping organizations discover and ascend to their Apex, he guides organizations through growth, transformation, and unparalleled success. By crafting tailored strategies and solutions, Rick empowers organizations to unlock their full potential, exceed their goals, and create a lasting impact.

While Rick dedicates himself to his work, he also understands the importance of playing hard. He cherishes the time spent with his wife and two sons. Embracing his love for the water, Rick finds solace and excitement in boating, water-skiing, wakeboarding, and wake-surfing.
Additionally, he seeks thrills on the slopes while skiing and snowmobiling.

Connect with Rick on LinkedIn and X.

Ashley Bowers is a distinguished expert with over 25 years of experience in talent management, operational excellence, and organizational growth. Her career began in organizational development and talent assessments, where she devised a strategic planning process to unify organizations towards achieving peak results.

Ashley’s expertise encompasses strategic planning, mergers & acquisitions, organizational structure & culture, change management, hyper-growth operational planning, and executive coaching & development. Her remarkable track record includes integrating acquisitions, preparing companies for IPOs, and developing proprietary strategies like the “Messy Strategy” for business advancement.

Ashley champions a culture of transparency and accountability, emphasizing the critical role of people in business success.

Follow Apex GTS on LinkedIn and Instagram.

Creativity and Cleanup Leading to Improved Culture E33

August 16, 2023 by Karen

Phoenix Business Radio

Creativity and Cleanup Leading to Improved Culture E33

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Creativity and Cleanup Leading to Improved Culture E33

When it comes to improving company culture, there are a tremendous amount of resources out there to help companies. Finding which resources are the right fit for your company is the tricky part.

Lucky for you, we brought together two amazing ladies that offer support that can improve all companies! These resources help to bring creativity and clarity to your teams!

This conversation talked about the support and structure that both Sarah’s company and Anca’s company can help provide to others.

There is a fear of failure and these ladies are here to help build the teams so that the fear can be concurred and supported.

Investing in outside support and facilitation is one of the best things a company can do to help improve their teams and company culture. Facilitators use techniques that stimulate creative thinking and innovation- and these ladies are the pinnacle of creativity!

You should listen to this podcast if you….

are having trouble communicating with your team and trying to find the right resources to help.
would like to find a unique way to improve your meetings and sharing top highlights with the company.
need a little support defining the goals of the meetings and the communication taking place.
are ready to invest in your company to improve the culture of the people and the company as a whole.
if you need a little help capturing and synthesizing the details from your meetings.

Culture Crush is here to support and it starts with these two amazing women led companies!

Design Convo is a female-owned Human Centered Strategy and Consulting firm dedicated to empowering organizations with transformative solutions. They specialize in helping organizations navigate complex challenges and achieve sustainable growth by placing humans at the heart of their strategies.

They team of seasoned consultants brings together expertise in strategy, design thinking, organizational change, capacity building, leadership development, and digital innovation.

By combining these diverse perspectives, they create holistic solutions that blend human insights with cutting-edge technologies, unlocking new possibilities for teams and organizations.

With a deep understanding of human communication and behavior, they guide organizations in crafting strategies that resonate with their target audiences and foster meaningful connections. They believe that successful businesses are built upon strong relationships, and they work closely with teams to cultivate cultures that drive collaboration.

In addition to strategy and consulting services, they also focus on capacity building and leadership development. Through tailored training programs, coaching, and skill-building initiatives, they equip leaders and teams with the tools and knowledge they need to drive sustainable change from within.

Anca M. Castillo, MS is as a master facilitator in multiple techniques and approaches, including Strategic Storytelling, Human-Centered Design, and Visual Facilitation, to name a few.

Originally from Romania, Anca grew up in Alaska before moving to Arizona to pursue an education in business. She spent the past 6+ years in different leadership roles at ASU before taking the leap into entrepreneurship.

Anca loves to help organizations and leaders solve wicked problems using a variety of proven tools and techniques. She is passionate about helping leaders develop the skills and capabilities they need to do their best work and helping organizations to push the boundaries of the status quo. She describes herself as a “rule breaker” and “big picture thinker”.

When not working, you can find Anca performing improv with her team, doing DIY projects, and dancing around her kitchen with her family.

Follow Design Convo on LinkedIn.

26 Letters Studio’s creativity is a crucial piece to the culture work organizations do in order to grow a sustainable business.

Their graphic facilitation visually guides and captures the conversations and activities that emerge during culture meetings.

This work inspires participants in the moment and the results (called artifacts) are used to further the conversation and quickly bring new hires into the fold.

Sarah Spencer is a professional visual storyteller. With experience across multiple disciplines, Sarah is valued for her ability to listen, synthesize and draw what is emerging as people meet to discuss important subjects.

The outcome is a visual representation of the meeting used for future discussions and planning and acts as an artifact of what emerged from the group.

Sarah is a published illustrator, writer, award-winning designer, inventor, and culture expert.

Follow 26 Letters on LinkedIn and Instagram.

About Culture Crush

At Culture Crush, culture isn’t just a corporate buzzword. It’s a key factor that can either boost your company or lead to its failure.

We’re culture consultants, with a focus on leadership, appreciation, communication, processes, accessibility, mental health, diversity, inclusion, and creating a dynamic workplace.

As a growing company:

Thank you for our Sponsor!

There has been tremendous growth of the Culture Crush Business and the Podcast. This growth is thanks to the support from the community and now the support through our current podcast sponsor.

Thank you Gateway Bank for supporting us as our Cultivator Podcast Sponsor!

If you would like to be part of the Culture Crush team or would like to support sponsoring the show- please reach out: info@culturecrushbusiness.com

GNFCC Leadership Transition: Kali Boatright Talks 2025 Highlights and 2026 Priorities with Outgoing Chair Dean Collins and Incoming Chair Laura Madajewski (GNFCC 400 Insider, Episode 111)

Key Takeaways from This Episode

Topics Discussed in this Episode

Laura Madajewski, 2026 Chair, and Principal, HLB Gross Collins P.C.

Dean Collins, 2025 GNFCC Chair, and Founder & President, Axis Infrastructure

About GNFCC and The GNFCC 400 Insider podcast

Kevin Johnson, Leverage Consulting, on Building an Oral Surgery Practice That Grows Without Burning You Out (Dental Business Radio, Episode 63)

Key Takeaways in This Episode

Topics Discussed in this Episode

Kevin Johnson, Founder and CEO, Leverage Consulting

Leverage Consulting

About Dental Business Radio

Practice Quotient

Connect with Practice Quotient

Keith Scott, K.L. Scott & Associates (KLSA), on Modernizing Government Technology, Strategic Planning, and Citizen Experience (North Fulton Business Radio, Episode 922)

Key Takeaways from This Episode

Topics Discussed in this Episode

Keith L. Scott, Founder and Chief Executive Officer

K.L. Scott & Associates (KLSA)

Renasant Bank supports North Fulton Business Radio

Beyond Computer Solutions supports North Fulton Business Radio

About North Fulton Business Radio and host John Ray

Succession Planning with Steve Fisher and Bryan Preston (Family Business Radio, Episode 70)

Key Takeaways from This Episode

Topics Discussed in this Episode

Steve Fisher, Founding Partner, Strategy Partners Group

Bryan Preston, Owner, Gaelic Business Solutions, LLC

Anthony Chen, Host of Family Business Radio

Cary Matthews, Adam Marshall, and Jonathan Bill on Guiding Family Businesses (Family Business Radio, Episode 68)

Key Takeaways from This Episode

Topics Discussed in this Episode

Cary Matthews, Opal Partners Group

Adam Marshall, Lorium Law

Jonathan Bill, SBS Accounting

Anthony Chen, Host of Family Business Radio

Navigating and Transforming Toxic Workplace Cultures E43

About Culture Crush

About the Host

Thank you for our Sponsor!

Strategically Planning for 2025 and Beyond S2E5

Tools for Collaboration and Success: A Chat with Apex Global Solutions

Creativity and Cleanup Leading to Improved Culture E33

About Culture Crush

Thank you for our Sponsor!

About the Host

Our Mission

Sponsor a Show

Partner With Us

Connect with us