Smita Solanki with The Buckhead Business Association, Collette McDonald with RE/MAX Around Atlanta , Jake Sherrill with Tier 4 Advisors, John Schaffner with BuckheadView, Mike Rose with WR Starkey Mortgage

Posted on August 5, 2014August 8, 2014

Smita Solanki, Collette McDonald, Jake Sherrill, John Schaffner, Mike Rose (Co-Host)

Mike Rose/Starkey Mortgage (Co-Host)

Currently, a Senior Loan Officer with Starkey Mortgage. He was a successful loan officer for many years with both Wells Fargo and Bank of America. His business network include real estate agents, financial planners, builders and many satisfied clients. He has closed millions of dollars worth of loans and helped many people purchase their first home. In 2008 and 2009, he reached Platinum Club status as in the top 5% of producers for Bank of America. Before starting his career in mortgage banking, he worked primarily in talk radio broadcasting As a producer, talk host and finally Program Director at News Radio WGST in Atlanta, Mike has proven experience in creating the best radio programming in the business. He spent many fun years as part of the team that helped to create brand names out of radio personalities such as consumer guru Clark Howard, Neal Boortz, Sean Hannity, and Kim Peterson . In 1999 and 2000, Mike took on the challenge as General Manager of the eclectic Voice of the Arts, 1190 WGKA. Mike is also a radio personality in his own right. He hosted the daily issue oriented talk show, on Talk Radio 1340, WALR-AM . Creative Loafing readers voted The Mike Rose Show the “The Best Radio Show to Seek Out” in 2003.

www.MikeRoseMortgage.com Linkedin Facebook

John Schaffner/BuckheadView.com

After a life-time career in newspaper journalism, and with no intention to ever “retire,” John Schaffner launched BuckheadView, an online news site covering news of interest and importance to residents of Atlanta’s Buckhead community. Schaffner launched his professional journalism career in the early ’60s, when he joined the St. Petersburg Times fresh from Florida State University. In the years that followed, he moved from there to The Palm Beach Post and then to The Philadelphia Inquirer prior to joining The Atlanta Constitution as Managing Editor in 1977. Since moving into Atlanta community journalism a dozen years ago, Schaffner has attended nearly every major community meeting and event in the areas he has covered. The Atlanta City Council, the Buckhead Coalition, the Buckhead Business Association and the Northwest Community Alliance have all recognized BuckheadView Editor John Schaffner for his hands-on community journalism. As a resident of Buckhead and active participant in local meetings and events, Schaffner’s coverage provides a perspective that goes far beyond any other community news organization. Schaffner turned 73 recently and has no intention of retiring anytime soon.

www.BuckheadView.com Linkedin Twitter Facebook

Jake Sherrill/Tier 4 Advisors
Founder and CEO

I am overly passionate about what I do for a living. I believe if you love what you do, naturally you’re probably pretty good at it and others probably enjoy working with you in that capacity. We (Tier 4 Advisors) take a tremendous amount of pride in being overly efficient and helping our clients drastically compress timelines. Additionally, we not only get to witness the immediate results from our efforts but we also get the opportunity to cultivate new relationships that last forever. Tier4 Advisors was founded on the principal of helping others achieve what they want to achieve and doing so in an efficient manner

TIER4 ADVISORS has changed the way organizations purchase IT services. We are “THE” sourcing partner for all of your Data Center, IT Infrastructure and Telecom needs. We do not replace your IT staff; we’re an extension of them. We utilize our solid relationships with hundreds of the top regional and international IT solution partners to provide time-saving project out-tasking, leading IT solutions, an unlimited geographic footprint, leveraged contract negotiation, and competitive pricing. If you have a data center (colo/cloud) or telecom (calling/connectivity) project (or expiring contract) on the horizon you should contact Tier 4 Advisors and explore how we can assist.

www.Tier4Advisors.com Linkedin Twitter

Collette McDonald/ RE/MAX Around Atlanta

Collette and her family live in Brookhaven. Prior to serving as the District 1 Planning Commissioner for DeKalb County, Collette served on the Board of Zoning Appeals for the district. Collette served on the Board for Citizens for North DeKalb (CFND) that researched the viability of a “City of Brookhaven.” Collette was integral part of the victory that created the largest new city in the metro Atlanta area and continues to stay involved in order to assist the Governor, State Representatives and public officials.

Realtor For The Atlanta Falcons. #1 Brookhaven Realtor 2013, Top 1% Metro Atlanta. HGTV Consultant & On Air Expert; she is a regular on HGTV shows like Design to Sell, My First Place and Bang for the Buck.

What sets Collette & Associates apart from other agents: Professional stager and design team on staff to help sellers stage their homes effectively and quickly. Professional photographer is used for all homes listed. 24/7 dedicated 800 number for immediate response, follow up.

www.ColletteMcDonald.com Linkedin Twitter Facebook

Smita Solanki/Buckhead Business Association
Executive Director

The Buckhead Business Association (BBA) is a non-profit organization which brings together and promotes business in Buckhead, Focused on the economic and cultural vitality of Atlanta’s Buckhead community, the BBA began in 1951 with casual meetings among various shopkeepers. Today, the BBA is composed of a diverse group of major corporations, midsize and emerging growth businesses, entrepreneurs, professionals, and individual members. Our members are focused on common goals; getting to know others in Buckhead business, hearing informative weekly speakers and staying involved in the Buckhead community.

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Lauren McNulty with Lenox Square, Dewayne Herbert with Phipps Plaza, David Alex Steele with True Food Kitchen and Co-Host Michael Moore

Posted on July 29, 2014August 4, 2014

Podcast: Download

David Alex Steele, Dewayne Herbert, Lauren McNulty, Michael Moore (Co-Host)

Lauren McNulty/Lenox Square
Director of Marketing and Business Development

Responsible for all aspects of marketing Lenox Square including event marketing, local media, public relations, tourism, guest services, business development, and financial planning and management. Create and direct strategic sales plan, marketing plan and operating budget that enhances tenant, community, and media relations, and increases center sales. Coordinate shopping center visual merchandising, signage and advertising programs. Oversee and evaluate the Marketing staff, including training and permanent positions.

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Dewayne Herbert /Phipps Plaza
Mall Manager

phippsplaza.com Twitter Facebook

David Alex Steele/True Food Kitchen
Assistant General Manager

TrueFoodKitchen.com Twitter Facebook

Michael Moore/Co-Host

Michael E Moore is a farm kid from Alabama, an Eagle Scout, a military officer during an unpopular war, a recovering banker and entrepreneur. Michael received his BS degree in accounting and finance from Auburn University in 1972 and served his country as a U.S. Army officer. He relocated back to the South (Atlanta) with his wife Karen in 1975 to work for the Citizens & Southern National Bank. Michael has been involved with business since the age of 8 as a farm kid running a produce stand and more recently he’s helped to found and fund new and grow companies for the benefit of our economy. Michael has a passion to help people develop their skills and connect with the right opportunities to derive a high value from their experiences.

Mr. Moore shares beliefs that to succeed you must invest with those close by and use the skills on the team to set and accomplish objectives (goals). Michael brings over forty years of diverse experience in leadership, banking, manufacturing, retailing and business start ups to the table. He also can burn up, tear up or just about destroy old paradigms of thinking as that relate to execution of an idea while keeping the team moving forward. Michael has been involved with professional growth as a personal and business coach for his entire career. Michael currently is involved as an ambassador for the Ritz Group a board member of the Atlanta Micro Fund and the College Park Entrepreneur Fund.

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Roy Brostrand and John Pollock with Philly Connection Food Trucks, Madison James with Kind Snacks and Atlanta BeltLine, Ryan Pernice with Table & Main and Osteria Mattone, Mike Rose with Starkey Mortgage

Posted on July 22, 2014July 25, 2014

Podcast: Download

Ryan Pernice, Mike Rose, Madison James, John Pollock, Roy Brostrand, Craig Williams

Roy Brostrand/Co-Founder The Philly Connection

Although The Cheesesteak Sandwich originated in Philadelphia, Pennsylvania, in 1979, Roy Brostrand came up with the concept for a Cheesesteak business and opened a store in South Jersey. Later, he sold it to move to Atlanta. In 1984, in Atlanta, the Philly Connection® concept was developed and introduced– that restaurant continues to operate today. The company then opened additional locations and, in 1988, franchise operations commenced. Raymond Gaspart and John Pollack purchased Roy’s shares and took the Philly Connection® to a whole new level, building the multiple store franchise concept nationwide. Back in 1984, Roy Brostrand and John Pollock were instrumental in the birth of the Philly Connection® and now with, Raymond Gaspart, they’re writing the next chapter as Philly Connection Food Trucks serve Philly Cheesesteaks all over the country in state-of-the-art mobile food trucks. The Philly Connection developed a recipe for the steak meat used to make Philly Connection’s proprietary Cheesesteak sandwich. The recipe includes a certain cut of whole-muscle beef, a secret marinade and a special processing technique that produces a high-quality, great-tasting, juicy, tender sliced steak product that is still used today by the Philly Connection® network of franchise restaurants. Those same time tested recipes will also be used on the mobile Philly Connection Food Trucks. Roy Brostrand and his partners John Pollock and Raymond Gaspart are excited to be launching new food truck franchises nationwide. With the launch of social media such as Facebook and Twitter and the use of GPS, loyal and hungry fans of Philly Connection Food Trucks can find out where their favorite food truck will be serving each day. Brostrand says, “Because of social media and the applications that are available today, people can find us at various food truck and corporate events. With Twitter we can instantly send out video of where we are. Facebook helps people keep up with us as we set up around the metropolitan area as well.” Christopher Conner, President, Franchise Marketing Systems says, “In my 12 years in franchising, I haven’t worked with many brands that match the potential of the Philly Connection Food Trucks system. Roy Brostrand and John Pollock are fantastic leaders, great communicators and have an inspiring vision for growth, I am honored to be associated with the brand and them personally.” The Philly Connection Food Trucks Franchise The Philly Connection Food Truck is a natural in the burgeoning food truck industry. Brostrand, Gaspart and Pollock saw the potential. They knew that the Cheesesteak was the perfect sandwich to be sold on a food truck and the rise of social media would be the perfect way for the mobile business to be found. Mobile food truck franchise owner Jeff Wheeler adds, “Owning a food truck, especially one that is offering quality food, like our cheesesteak, fast service and one that is in reality the only one like it in the Atlanta area, is a worthy investment on my part. There is a lot of time involved, but a good return on my investment of time and money.”

www.PhillyConnectionFoodTrucks.com Twitter Facebook Press Release

John Pollock/Co-Founder The Philly Connection Food Trucks

Since 1984, Atlanta-based Philly Connection® restaurants have been perfecting the Cheesesteak sandwich. Starting in January of this year, after years of studying the food truck concept, Philly Connection Food Trucks became a realization by entering the booming Food Truck Industry! Philly Connection Food Trucks, serving the high-quality Philly Connection® Cheesesteak and Chicken Cheesesteak sandwiches, will be “hitting the road” to bring “Cheesesteak Perfection” to public and private events throughout the Southeast and beyond, as new Philly Connection Food Truck franchises come on board. Philly Connection Food Trucks differentiates its food trucks through its specially designed mobile kitchen layout allowing each of its food trucks to efficiently and promptly serve the delicious, award-winning Philly Cheesesteaks and Chicken Cheesesteaks as today’s food truck customers seek great-tasting, high-quality menu items. The clear mission of Philly Connection Food Trucks is to provide our food truck customers with a great Philly Connection® food experience at their favorite public venues or at their own private events!

www.PhillyConnectionFoodTrucks.com Twitter Facebook Press Release

Madison James/KIND Snacks and Atlanta BeltLine

In less than a year, Madison James has taken the Atlanta lifestyle scene by storm. Born and raised in the South, the Jackson, Tenn., native arrived in the Peach State, as the afternoon drive personality on Atlanta’s B98.5 FM in February 2013. In such a commuter-heavy city, Madison has quickly solidified herself as a favorite voice among Atlanta’s varied radio listeners. In fact, Madison’s afternoon radio show is consistently ranked as a top performer among various demographics, including adults and women, according to Atlanta-area Nielsen ratings. Her show is heard by over 750,000 people in the metro-Atlanta area each week giving Madison the largest afternoon audience in the market. Madison also has a passion for fitness. In July 2013, the former Division I collegiate athlete and National Physique Committee figure competitor teamed up with the Atlanta-Journal Constitution to produce a weekly segment, and share her passion with the Atlanta community. The self-proclaimed fitness addict launched “Atlanta’s MAD About Fitness”, a video blog offering insight on incorporating healthy habits into the everyday lives of the city’s bustling residents. Her AJC blog receives 10,000 page views a month and continues to grow with popularity. Most recently, Madison made her Atlanta-area television debut as a correspondent for WSB-TV’s weekly entertainment roundup, “Hot Topics,” in January 2014. The lively broadcast, also airing on sister stations WFTV in Orlando, Fla. and WSOC in Charlotte, N.C, covers unbelievable stories from around the country. In addition, Madison graced the cover of Best Self Atlanta for the “What’s Hot for 2014” issue, and is featured in the March edition of Atlanta Magazine. Madison is also a spokesperson for New Balance Footwear and KIND Snacks. Having developed an impressive presence on three of Atlanta’s major mass media platforms – radio, print, and TV – in under a year, Madison continues to cement herself as a trusted source of all things lifestyle. In the coming months, the triple-threat plans to continue her multi-media efforts and focus on collaborating with her community. She has a genuine passion for empowering people to live their best life. Madison looks forward to connecting with more Atlantans, having fun & feeling good while doing so.

Blog www.BeltLine.org www.KINDsnacks.com Twitter

Ryan Pernice/Table & Main and Osteria Mattone

With more than 15 years’ experience in the hospitality industry, Ryan Pernice demonstrates a passionate commitment to excellence in his restaurants, Table & Main | a southern tavern and Osteria Mattone. Raised in Roswell and a proud graduate of Roswell High School, Ryan opened Table & Main in 2011 featuring “simple, seasonal and Southern” cuisine. Upon opening, Table & Main earned early acclaim from critics and diners alike. Though awards are nice, Ryan is most proud to have built a restaurant that his friends and neighbors can consider their “neighborhood spot.” Ryan and his partner, chef Ted Lahey, decided to open Osteria Mattone to offer Canton Street its only Italian restaurant. After all, what better way to build on their success than with a bowl of pasta and a glass of Barolo? Combining the casual spirit of an osteria with the more formal dining of a Roman trattoria, Osteria Mattone also puts a great emphasis on a beverage program driven by Ryan’s brother, Daniel. To distill his vision for the restaurant, Ryan traveled to Italy with Executive Chef Lahey to eat his way through 31 restaurants in seven days in Bologna, Montepulciano, Naples, and Rome. In 2009, Ryan helped open Maialino, a Roman trattoria in New York City’s Gramercy Park from award-winning restaurateur Danny Meyer of Union Square Hospitality Group. Lauded with accolades by Forbes, Esquire, New York Magazine and the NY Times since its debut, Maialino set a high standard for Ryan’s dream of opening his own restaurant. Prior to opening Maialino, Ryan gained valuable experience in restaurant consulting at Avero, LLC, an innovative business-intelligence company catering to the country’s top restaurateurs. After working in several local Roswell restaurant kitchens throughout high school, Ryan attended Cornell University’s School of Hotel Administration where he graduated with highest honors in 2007. Ryan lives in Roswell and enjoys exploring the dining scene in and around Atlanta, sharpening his bocce ball and pool table skills with friends and attending local concerts.

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Mike Rose/Starkey Mortgage

www.MikeRoseMortgage.com Linkedin Facebook

Craig Williams/Global Authority Agency (Co-Host)

Craig, husband of one, father of four, is a consummate connector,1st generation social entrepreneur, and a true creative, working within the margin of safety while mastering his circles of confidence. Organically creating history by powerfully influencing culture.

www.GlobalAuthorityAgency.com Linkedin Twitter

Buckhead Business Radiox Guest Wall of Fame!

Chuck Wolf with Chuck Wolf’s Photo Design Bar, Mike Blake with Habif, Arogeti & Wynne, LLP, Justin Owen with Owen Security Solutions, Reo Oravec with Pilot House Advisors, Dutch Earle/Executive Strategies Inc.

Posted on July 15, 2014July 18, 2014

Podcast: Download

Dutch Earle, Reo Oravec, Justin Owen, Mike Blake, Chuck Wolf

Chuck Wolf/Chuck Wolf’s Photo Design Bar

Wolf first worked at a Washington DC Ritz Camera store owned by his uncle Ed Ritz. In 1974, he traded in stock in the company for nine stores. That chain grew until in 1997, Wolf opened its 300th store. In 1998, Wolf acquired the 449 Fox Photo Stores from Eastman Kodak, making Wolf Camera the second largest specialty retail camera chain in the country, he says, next to Wolf’s Uncle’s Ritz Camera, which was then led by his first cousin, David Ritz. In 2001, he sold to Ritz Camera.

www.photodesignbar.com Twitter Facebook

Mike Blake/Habif, Arogeti & Wynne, LLP

Michael Blake is Director of Valuation Services at Habif, Arogeti & Wynne, LLP. He has fifteen years of valuation experience, with particular expertise in mergers & acquisitions, dispute resolution, intellectual property matters, and exotic securities and derivatives valuation. Michael’s professional background is transaction focused, with long tenures in the venture capital and investment banking industries. Michael has considerable experience working with companies in the U.S. and abroad, most notably Russia, Israel, Belarus, and Ukraine. Michael has performed and managed hundreds of valuations for transactions, and audit and tax compliance and served as expert witness in intellectual property, securities, and other financial matters. Michael has expertise working with professional services, financial institutions, alternative energy, aerospace, information technology, biotechnology, restaurants, paper and timber, and real estate management companies. Michael received his Bachelor’s Degree, Cum Laude, in Economics and French from Franklin & Marshall College and his Masters of Business Administration Degree from Georgetown University. Michael is the co-founder and president of StartupLounge.com, a not-for-profit organization that supports the venture community in Georgia. He was a Nominee Finalist for the 2009 Turknett Foundation Leadership Character Award and a Nominee Finalist for the 2009 TechAmerica Spirit of Endeavor Award. Michael was named to the Atlanta Business Chronicle’s 2009 Up and Comers List for the top 40 executives under the age of 40 and is a graduate of the Leadership Atlanta Class of 2014. Michael’s professional and academic affiliations include:  Chartered Financial Analyst Institute  Atlanta CPA Society  American Finance Association  Phi Beta Kappa  American Society of Appraisers  Institute of Business Appraisers  Georgia Tech/Emory TI:GER Advisory Board  Ukrainian-American Chamber of Commerce Mike Lives with his wife and 2 sons in Chamblee and plays keyboards and vocals for a rock cover band, Kickin Off the Coverz.

www.hawcpa.com Twitter Facebook

www.unblakeable.com Linkedin Twitter

Justin Owen/Owen Security Solutions

Second generation owner of Owen Security Solutions. Rose up in the company with a stint in outside sales in 2001. In 2003 became sales manager started building his own sales team. In 2008 became President and partner with Gary Owen and has been running all day to day operations since that time.

Owen Security was founded in 1973 on principles of honesty, integrity and servicing others.

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Reo Oravec/Pilot House Advisors

Reo Oravec comes with 32 years as a trusted advisor to clients. He started his career with Anderson Consulting in Europe where he attended the University of Oxford for an MBA. He returned to the US to run the West coast branch of Anderson and was hired as a CIO for a DOT COM client, which he took public. Reo has spent over a decade in various VP roles for a global consulting company helping a broad range of businesses from startups to F100 companies. As CEO of Pilothouse Advisors, he currently leads the business strategy efforts that focus on customer’s high growth and innovation execution. Reo has a vast experience with SMEs from all aspects of business operations, and, today, he will uncover their origins and usefulness in today’s challenging environment. Optional: Reo holds certifications in project management from Stanford University, business intelligence from TDWI, and is a certified outsourcing executive from IAOP. He’s the author of an upcoming book on effective business processes and revenue generation titled “Sales Best Practices.” In Atlanta, he is involved in TAG, ASP, AICPA, IIBA, the AQAA, and is a fund raiser for SOGA, the Salvation Army Bed and Bread program, Feed America, and the Wounded Warrior Project.

www.pilothouseadvisors.com Linkedin

Holland “Dutch” Earle/Executive Strategies Inc

Dutch Earle is the Founder and Managing Director of Executive Strategies, Inc. Established in 1994, ESI provides search, coaching, and other talent management services to help organizations find and develop top talent. Dutch held executive roles within large and Fortune 500 organizations. He started his career with NCR Corporation in human resources and then joined RCA Corporation, where he progressed through a series of management positions in labor relations, compensation, employment and organizational development. Next, for Penn Mutual Life Insurance Company, he led corporate staffing and organizational development and established a temporary services business. Preceding ESI, he was the Vice President, Human Resources for ADP National Accounts where he developed and led human resources strategy for the organization. His broad business expertise and client centric consultative approach has positioned Dutch as a value added resource for his clients. He leverages his management skills across multiple service offerings – search, coaching and talent management. Dutch has managed hundreds of searches throughout the country across numerous disciplines and has delivered a customized range of corporate leadership and executive coaching programs. Additionally, he is a partner in a career coaching and resume services business that serves companies and individuals. Dutch earned his undergraduate degree from Pennsylvania State University and holds a Masters in Industrial Relations from Saint Francis University. Dutch leverages his time and talents with outdoor oriented organizations and other community philanthropic organizations. He is a member of Roswell Rotary, on the Board of the Chattahoochee Nature Center and is past president of a local chapter of Trout Unlimited. Dutch frequently speaks to executive and civic gatherings on business strategy, executive management, life management principles and entrepreneurship. Dutch and his wife Kathy reside in Roswell, Georgia.

www.esisearch.com Linkedin

Larry White with The Ritz Group, Karen Burns with Karen Burns Photography, Vic Uzumeri with interactive Point of View (iPOV), Troy Burns with La Culture du Vin

Posted on July 8, 2014July 10, 2014

Podcast: Download

Karen Burns, Troy Burns, Tres Crow (Host), Vic Uzumeri, Larry White

Host: Tres Crow/Ritz Group

Director of Membership and Ambassador for The Ritz Group, the premier electronic and physical networking organization in the state of Georgia. With over 2500 members, monthly networking and pitch events, hundreds of opportunities for entrepreneurs and investors.

Primary duties include, but are not limited to:

-Growing and managing the paid membership community of 400 people, and ensuring that members are using all of the tools that the Ritz Group offers.
-Maintaining the company website, and producing all physical and electronic collateral and communications to our broader membership of 2500 people.
-Signing up sponsors for all Ritz Group venues, and meeting monthly sales quotas. Sponsorships range from $349 to $5000.
-Selling licenses for the Capital Expo, a privately licensed virtual trade show.
-Developing new products, services, and marketing opportunities.
-Organizing the monthly networking events and Shark Attack presentations
-Organizing and hosting the monthly Ritz Group Radio Show

www.RitzGroup.org Linkedin Twitter

Larry White/The Ritz Group

Larry White is the Founder and CEO of Retail Electronic Visions a software development company providing social media communities for Retail, Capital, Emergency Management, Yachting and Sports vertical industries. Retail Electronic Visions is the holding company for brands doing business as the Ritz Group, (www.ritzgroup.org) TheAisles (www.theAisles.net) and eLink 911 (www.elink911.com)

In 2012 Retail Electronic Visions purchased the 26 year old Ritz Group and added the Capital Community, a Reg D private equity solicitation community, for entrepreneurs, Investors and service providers. In addition, the Capital Expo was launched as the industry’s first video virtual e-trade show for companies raising equity funds under the Invest Georgia Exemption Act (IGE)

The Ritz Group meets monthly at the City Club to network and added Shark Attack where 3 companies (Bait) pitch for 15 minutes to 3 Industry ICONS (Sharks). Professionally Emcee’d by Bob Rathbun, Fox Sports South broadcaster for the Hawks. 8 exhibitors are featured at the Networking Event.

In addition to providing members with electronic Incubation and physical networking, the Ritz Group provides members with a free and fee-based services to improve the “investor-readiness” of early and later stage companies through debt, crowdfunding and equity funding process.

New 2014 programs will include online delivery of Equity-U courses, Ritz Group Radio to showcase our members, Angel Meet-Ups to serve our Angels, plus the launch of Blue Chips – a new collaborative approach to fund Georgia’s “best” disruptive Technology, Consumer Goods, Medical, Food and Beverage and Entertainment early-stage ventures.

www.RitzGroup.org Linkedin Twitter

Vic Uzumeri/interactive Point of View (iPOV)

iPOV is a knowledge concierge. It creatively leverages the global freelance market to solve creative and knowledge-intensive business problems. iPOV processes information to serve clients from small business to Fortune 500 companies. The company specializes in rapid, low cost production of web-based training, knowledge capture and analysis solutions. iPOV has pioneered the application of lean thinking (i.e., Toyota Production System) concepts to the production of eLearning.

www.ipov.net Linkedin Twitter

Karen Burns/Karen Burns Photography

Owner Karen Burns Photography since 1997. Fine Art, Architecture, Corporate, Commercial, Events, Headshots, Marketing, Products, Wedding Photography. Photoshop retouching, Album design, Card & Announcement design, & canvas & framed imaging.
www.KarenImages.com www.KarenBurnsPhotography.com
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Troy Burns/La Culture du Vin

La Culture du Vin is a 30 minute weekly documentary on the culture built by wine in the small country French villages surrounded by rolling vineyards and wine houses.

www.lacultureduvin.com Linkedin Twitter Facebook

Special Episode! U.S. Small Business Administration Eugene Cornelius, Jr. with U.S. SBA, Tasha Reid with Visionary Construction Inc., Terri Denison with U.S. SBA Georgia District Office, Mark D. Gibson with SBA Georgia District Public Affairs

Posted on July 8, 2014July 8, 2014

Podcast: Download

Terri Denison, Tasha Reid, Mark Gibson, Eugene Cornelius

Eugene Cornelius, Jr./U.S. Small Business Administration
Deputy Associate Administrator For Field Operations

Mr. Cornelius is the Deputy Associate Administrator for Field Operations for the U.S. Small Business Administration (SBA). He was appointed after serving as the Acting Regional Administrator for Region III that covers Delaware, Pennsylvania, Maryland, Virginia, West Virginia and the District of Columbia. As Deputy Associate Administrator, Mr. Cornelius is responsible for management and oversight of over 90 offices covering all 50 States, Puerto Rico, U.S. Virgin Islands, Guam and U.S. Territories. Mr. Cornelius has served the SBA in numerous capacities prior to this appointment beginning in 1999 as the District Director for the Michigan District Office. After graduating from the Senior Executive Service (SES) Training Program in 2002, he served as the agency’s Chief Procurement Officer and as the Associate Administrator for 8(a) Business Development in SBA’s national headquarters. In 2004, he was appointed as SBA’s Louisiana District Director where he served as the Agency’s point of contact during the Katrina hurricane disaster and recovery. In 2008 he served as the Washington Metropolitan Area District Office Director overseeing the largest Government Contracting Portfolio in the country. Before joining SBA, Mr. Cornelius was the Director of Business Services for the Los Angeles Community College District in California, the largest community college system in the United States, the Senior Administrative Officer for the City of Redondo Beach, California, and the Risk Manager for the Compton Unified School District in Compton, California. Mr. Cornelius is a trained Federal Acquisition (Level 3) Senior Project Manager and is nationally certified as an Associate in Risk Management (ARM). He holds a Bachelor’s degree in Business Administration and a Master’s degree in Public Administration. In addition, he has professional designations in Economic Development and Urban Planning. A Chicago native, Mr. Cornelius is a life member of Alpha Phi Alpha fraternity, Inc.

www.SBA.gov Linkedin Twitter

Tasha Reid/Visionary Construction Inc.

Since its founding in Georgia in March 2010, Visionary Management Services is working toward becoming the leading professional supplier of cost effective facility management solutions. Ms. Tasha Reid holds a Master Degree in Business Administration with extensive experience as a project manager. She has been active in the field of pro-development, project development, construction, and information technology for ten years. Ms. Reid has managed national construction projects for one of the top fortune 100 companies Ms. Reid greatest strengths are her perseverance, drive and leadership. She has successfully directed Visionary Management Services strategic planning, business development, resources, quality assurance and customer satisfaction. She thrives on challenges, particularly those that expand the company’s reach. She has also done several volunteer projects for her church, community and abroad. Ms. Reid destiny fulfilled philosophy is very simple “Inspire before you expire.” Since childhood, Tasha Reid always knew she was an entrepreneur. Her first business venture was selling candy bars to her fellow classmates. She was so successful that she was able to earn twice as much as she spent buying the candy from the store! She used her passion for selling, along with the discipline she gained from playing basketball, to earn a Master’s in Business Administration. Using her education, natural talents and innovative ideas, she was able to earn her first real estate license at 25 and begin a successful career in the housing market. Unfortunately, the 2008 housing crash impacted her business along with the financial stability of millions of Americans. While it was a difficult decision, Tasha eventually had to close her real estate business. In December of that year she relocated to Atlanta, GA, to help out a family member. It was then that she became a member of The Vision Church of Atlanta. According to Tasha, the lessons she learned from her church are what gave her the faith and determination to continue to strive toward success. While building her faith, Tasha was also building her skills. She began booking speaking engagements and mentoring others while hosting her own internet show. However, she was reluctant to start another business because she was afraid it would fail as her real estate business had. However, she took a leap of faith and founded Visionary Management Services. Visionary Management Services (VMS) is a company that offers facilities support through contracting services to businesses. Some of the services that are contracted include construction, janitorial service, and landscaping and facility maintenance. One of the highlights of the company is that it provides small business owners with contracted work that they otherwise would not have been able to obtain on their own. Since its founding in 2010, VMS has completed numerous public and private projects throughout the southeastern United States. Tasha first applied for the Small Business Administration’s 8(a) Business Development Program. However, she faced the risk of her application being denied because of limited past performance with her business. Taking the advice of an SBA official, she withdrew her application. But she didn’t stop there. Instead, she took a class provided by the SBA that focused on doing business with the government, which allowed her to gain the past performance she needed to submit a successful 8(a) application in 2013. Thanks to her faith and perseverance, she was accepted into the 8(a) program on October 31, 2013, and is currently a thriving participant. Currently, Tasha Reid is looking forward to being part of SBA’s Mentor-Protégé program. Through this program, she will be mentored by Artesian Contracting so that her business will be better equipped for future success. It is because of her unwavering determination and that she has come this far and it is her unyielding desire for success that will propel her and Visionary Management Services even further. That focused on doing business with the government, which allowed her to gain the past performance she needed to submit a successful 8(a) application in 2013. Thanks to her faith and perseverance, she was accepted into the 8(a) program on October 31, 2013, and is currently a thriving participant. Currently, Tasha Reid is looking forward to being part of SBA’s Mentor-Protégé program. Through this program, she will be mentored by US &S Inc. so that her business will be better equipped for future success. It is because of her unwavering determination and that she has come this far and it is her unyielding desire for success that will propel her and Visionary Management Services even further.

www.VisionaryMgmtServ.com

Terri Denison/U.S. SBA Georgia District Office
District Director

Responsible for overseeing the implementation and operation of the SBA’s financial, counseling/training and procurement/business development programs for small businesses throughout Georgia.

U.S. SBA Georgia District Office Linkedin Twitter

Mark D. Gibson/SBA Georgia District Public Affairs

Public Information Specialist

U.S. SBA Georgia District Office Twitter

Jeff Spaccio with Atlanta Marriott Buckhead Hotel and Conference Center & Shulas 347 Grill, Chris Schroder with Schroder PR and The Atlanta 100, Ken Scroggs with Health Works Solutions, Rob Broadfoot with BumFloat.com

Posted on July 1, 2014July 7, 2014

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Rob Broadfoot, Ken Scroggs, Chris Schroder, Jeff Spaccio

Jeff Spaccio/Atlanta Marriott Buckhead Hotel and Conference Center and Shulas 347 Grill

Jeffrey Spaccio As Regional Director of Sales & Marketing, Jeff responsible for overseeing all revenue aspects of the Atlanta Marriott Buckhead Hotel and Shula’s 347 grill. Spaccio arrived in Atlanta 6 months ago from Las Vegas and Miami, where he spent the 3 years with Pyramid Hotel Group – overseeing multiple properties revenue operations and a number Hotels and Resorts in Las Vegas and South Florida. Previously, Spaccio held an array of sales management positions at hotel and resort properties within Florida. He was Area Director of Sales & Marketing at Hilton Melbourne Beach Oceanfront and Doubletree Guest Suites Melbourne Beach Oceanfront; and Director of Sales & Marketing at Doubletree Hotel Coconut Grove and Doubletree Grand Hotel-Biscayne Bay. He got his start in the hospitality industry as a Sales Manager for Hilton Melbourne at Rialto Place back in 1997. A native of Central Florida, Spaccio earned a Bachelor of Science degree in Business Administration from the University of Central Florida.

www.MarriottBuckhead.com Twitter Facebook Linkedin

www.Shulas347Atlanta.com Twitter Facebook

Chris Schroder/Schroder PR and The Atlanta 100

After working as a publisher, editor and reporter in the newspaper business for 25 years, Chris Schroder decided to explore the other side of media … serving clients who want to raise their public profile or protect themselves while facing a crisis or redeem themselves after one. Guided by his media background, he founded his own PR firm in December 2002 to provide clients the necessary techniques to ensure they deliver “Clear Messages in a Cluttered World.” By adding other media, PR, legal and personal counseling professionals to the team, Schroder PR now helps businesses present their stories in the best possible manner to meet strategic goals and reach targeted audiences – including clients, prospects, the media and their own employees. With years of counseling experience in the three areas of crisis management – image, HR/legal and personal – Chris and his team is able to provide urgent expert advice when clients most need it. Specialties: Schroder PR is a full service communications firm offering a wide range of crisis management with capabilities designed to help clients achieve their corporate public relations and marketing objectives.

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www.TheAtlanta100.com Facebook

Ken Scroggs/Health Works Solutions

Health Works Solutions Ken Scroggs is the founder and CEO of Health Works Solutions a Risk Management/Wellness company. Health Works provides “Pre-claims” Risk Management services to companies by providing programs that will identify and control the risks the drive healthcare costs. Unlike most benefits experts, Health Works goes beyond mere cost shifting within the plan design or increasing deductibles. Instead, they solve the problem. Founded in 2009 Ken founded Health Works Solutions in response to requests from his client companies’ need to control their health care costs. To accomplish this goal, Ken launched a strategic plan with three crucial components. These three components are data analysis, coordinated services alignment, and leadership through employee engagement. Ken has over 40 years experience in both the military and civilian life creating successful healthcare programs. He was a Captain in the U. S. Army serving at Ft. Hood Texas where he helped coordinate all available human services. During his military career he also initiated numerous programs to coordinate healthcare programs including mental health services for cardiac care, PTSD, Leadership Development and Child Abuse Prevention to name a few. Ken has earned degrees in Psychology and Social Work, and graduated from the University of Georgia in 1972. He has provided services to the US Army, Navy, NASA, Oglethorpe Power Co., EMS Technologies, Gwinnett County Government, Scientific Atlanta, IBM, The Torrington Company, Atlanta Business Women’s Association, Gwinnett Leadership, Emory University, Race Trac, Resurgens and other centers of influence. Ken is also a facility member of WELCOA, the Wellness Counsel of America.

www.eapworklife.com Linkedin

Rob Broadfoot/BumFloat.com

Atlanta native now resides in Decatur, GA. Rob launched BumFloat in 2012 along with two business partners. While not “bumming it” on the lake or rivers, Rob is also part owner of MOCK, the agency a Midtown, Atlanta advertising, graphic, and digital design company. Creatively-driven work to help solve marketing challenges. Personal relationships drive better ideas, and we apply them to every client and project, no matter how big or small. Talk directly with the people doing the work. That just makes sense.

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Buckhead Business RadioX 07-01-14 Wall of Fame

Buckhead Business RadioX 07-01-14 Wall of Fame

June Cline with Open Heart Communications and Samuel Hayes III with Caliber Training Group

Posted on June 24, 2014June 24, 2014

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Buckhead Business RadioX 06-24-14 Group 1

Craig Williams (Co-host), June Cline, Wendy Guarisco (PR Agent) and Sam Hayes

June Cline/Open Heart Communications, LLC

June Cline, CSP is the Southern, Sassy and Savvy Harley Riding Humorist. As President of Open Heart Communications and author of “Is It God Or Is It Gas?” her writing is also featured in “Humor Me” along with sixteen of the nation’s other top humorist. June is also co-host of The Happiness Recipe Radio Show which is currently being heard in 43 States & over 20 Countries. Over 1,500 corporations, associations and colleges such as Toyota, PetSmart, National Dental Association and a slew of other names you’d recognize have benefited from her teaching them the ROI of LOL: Return On Investment of Laughing Out Loud.

A former college administrator, June draws on her experiences in education, banking and career development to teach audiences to use humor to gain recognition, respect and reward. June’s wisdom has appeared in publications as diverse as CNN, The Boston Globe, INC, Selling Power, Harvard Management Communication Letter, Competitive Edge, Redbook, First For Women, and by Gannett News Service’s syndicated columns.

When June isn’t teaching audiences about the power of laughter she can be found riding her Harley-Davidson, “Good Golly Miss Molly” through the scenic mountains of North Georgia. Her riding experiences inspired her latest project, the creation of her one woman show, “A Night of Levity and Laughter with June Cline,” targeting pre thur post menopausal woman and the people who love them. Entitled, “Make It A Great Ride!” June inspires all who hear her that regardless of the bumps in the road, we still have the power to make it a GREAT ride!

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Sam Hayes/Caliber Training Group

Samuel R Hayes III is a physical security expert, firearms and combatives instructor and close personal protection specialist with over 20 years of experience in corporate security operations and protective services for high profile individuals. Hayes has also worked extensively with various law enforcement and government entities in support of protective details for key political figures and visiting dignitaries.

He served in Desert Storm and as a private security contractor, was deployed to provide security for BP following Hurricane Katrina. Today Hayes is CEO and lead instructor in his personal defense training and consulting company, Caliber Training Group, LLC.

CaliberTrainingGroup.com Linkedin Twitter Twitter (Sam) Facebook

Special Episode Jim Durrett with Buckhead (CID) Community Improvement District and Co-Host Michael Moore

Posted on June 17, 2014June 28, 2014

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Jim Durrett and Michael Moore

Jim Durrett/Buckhead (CID) Community Improvement District

Jim Durrett, an Atlanta native, directs all activities of the Buckhead CID. Jim has been promoting smart growth development and livable communities since 1996, when he left his hydrogeology practice and went to work at the Georgia Conservancy. From there his career took him to the Metro Atlanta Chamber where he was VP of Environmental Affairs, to the Urban Land Institute where he was founding executive director of ULI Atlanta, and to the Livable Communities Coalition where he was founding executive director. He came to the Buckhead CID in September of 2009 and serves full time as the Executive Director. Jim is an avid bicyclist, a member of Leadership Atlanta’s class of 2013, and serves on several boards, including MARTA’s board of directors. Jim and his wife, Pat, have two boys currently attending college.

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Co-Host Michael Moore/The Ritz Group

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Rodney Sampson with Opportunity Hub, Andrew McConnell with VacationFutures, Katharine Mobley with WeCareCard, Megan Johnson and Marcus Cannady with Sparkmarket, Brett Grayson with Good Country Films

Posted on June 10, 2014June 26, 2014

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Megan Johnson, Brett Grayson, Andrew McConnell, Tres Crow, Marcus Cannady, Katharine Mobley, Rodney Sampson

Rodney Sampson/Opportunity Hub

Rodney Sampson is an innovator, serial entrepreneur, investor, author, and consecrated bishop. Via his Episcopal affiliations with the International Bishop’s Conference and Kingdom Manifestation, Sampson shapes innovative economic policy, opportunities throughout society & culture.

As a serial entrepreneur, Sampson co-founded Multicast Media Networks (Streamingfaith.com) in 2000 (sold in 2010). Not stopping there, Sampson co-founded Intellect in 2002, Intellect Inspire in 2006, and Legacy Opportunity Fund in 2007. At present, Sampson is building Opportunity Fund, a U.S. based “super crowd fund” and crowdfunding platform designed to provide underserved communities access to investment opportunities traditionally reserved for accredited and institutional investors. He also serves on the boards of a learning company, a New York-based merchant investment bank and a community development corporation.

Passionate about advancing the cause of entrepreneurship, investment and Crowdfunding as a way of life for all communities, Sampson leads the diversity and inclusion initiatives of One Three Media, a joint venture between Mark Burnett Productions and Hearst. On the ground, he is the co-founder of the Opportunity Hub, an entrepreneurial eco-space and alternative-funding center for small businesses located at 200 Peachtree in downtown Atlanta, Georgia. Sampson is also a Founding Board Member of the Georgia Crowdfunding Association, an advocate of the State’s “Invest Georgia Exemption” legislation.

Sampson is regularly called upon to advise and speak to nations, businesses, universities, and bishops who employ thousands and lead millions of constituents and communities around the world. The author of four books, Sampson’s latest book is Kingonomics: Twelve Innovative “Currencies” for Transforming Your Business & Your Life, Inspired by Dr. Martin Luther King, Jr.

RodneySampson.com Opportunity Hub Linkedin Twitter Facebook
@ohub200 @KingdomEconomic

Andrew McConnell/VacationFutures

Andrew McConnell initially came up with the idea for VacationFutures after hearing two vacation homeowners who were self-managing their properties tell horror stories of the time and hassle involved. With an undergraduate degree from Harvard College, law degrees from Harvard Law School and Cambridge University, and experience working with some of the largest companies in the world during his time at McKinsey & Co. and Axiom Global Inc., Andrew is excited to apply all he has learned to the vacation rental industry in order to create a better experience for homeowners, rental managers, and renters alike.

VacationFutures.com Linkedin Twitter Facebook

Katharine Mobley/WeCareCard.com

Spending 15+ years in the advertising and PR world, Katharine Mobley decided it was time for a change, and became the Chief Marketing Officer, of WeCareCard, a revolutionary crowdfunding technology powered with a prepaid debit card.

She is using her previous experiences of working with some of the world’s largest brands; Coca-Cola, DASANI, Bank of America to name a few, to share the WeCareCard story. This is an exciting time for startups and a MUCH faster pace than 1999 – of course we were on dial up back then! WeCareCard’s patent pending prepaid technology offers unique services to those participating in the rapidly growing crowdfunding market. WCC allows one cardholder to register a card in time of celebration or hardship, but allows multiple donors to donate through our secure platform.  WCC is entering into two industries that have exploded in the last couple years – prepaid and crowdfunding. The prepaid industry is expected to top $594B this year, and the crowdfunding industry is expecting $5.1B in revenue.

Currently we are looking for personal investors, not your typical ‘startup’, as our team is lead by, Phillip Qualls CEO, a 20+ year veteran and serial entrepreneur in the technology, payments and financial sectors. Previously, Phillip was a partner of Money Network Financial, which was acquired by First Data in 2007. He continued to serve as acting EVP/ GM of Money Network for First Data until 2009, deepening his expertise in the FinTech sector.

www.WeCareCard.com Linkedin Twitter Facebook

Megan Johnson/Sparkmarket

Megan is not only the founder and CEO of Sparkmarket she is also a Georgia attorney with six years of experience with financial transactions and general business law. She is dedicated to creating a new marketplace for quality and sustainable local investment opportunities accessible by everyday Georgia residents.

SparkMarket.com Linkedin Twitter Facebook
Linkedin (Megan)

Marcus Cannady/SparkMarket

Marketing Strategist & Development at SparkMarket

SparkMarket.com Linkedin Twitter

Brett Grayson/Good Country Films

From Marine to Attorney to Film Producer, Brett’s professional experience spans quite an impressive spectrum.

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Roy Brostrand and John Pollock with Philly Connection Food Trucks, Madison James with Kind Snacks and Atlanta BeltLine, Ryan Pernice with Table & Main and Osteria Mattone, Mike Rose with Starkey Mortgage

Ryan Pernice, Mike Rose, Madison James, John Pollock, Roy Brostrand, Craig Williams

Chuck Wolf with Chuck Wolf’s Photo Design Bar, Mike Blake with Habif, Arogeti & Wynne, LLP, Justin Owen with Owen Security Solutions, Reo Oravec with Pilot House Advisors, Dutch Earle/Executive Strategies Inc.

Larry White with The Ritz Group, Karen Burns with Karen Burns Photography, Vic Uzumeri with interactive Point of View (iPOV), Troy Burns with La Culture du Vin

Special Episode! U.S. Small Business Administration Eugene Cornelius, Jr. with U.S. SBA, Tasha Reid with Visionary Construction Inc., Terri Denison with U.S. SBA Georgia District Office, Mark D. Gibson with SBA Georgia District Public Affairs

Jeff Spaccio with Atlanta Marriott Buckhead Hotel and Conference Center & Shulas 347 Grill, Chris Schroder with Schroder PR and The Atlanta 100, Ken Scroggs with Health Works Solutions, Rob Broadfoot with BumFloat.com

June Cline with Open Heart Communications and Samuel Hayes III with Caliber Training Group

Special Episode Jim Durrett with Buckhead (CID) Community Improvement District and Co-Host Michael Moore

Rodney Sampson with Opportunity Hub, Andrew McConnell with VacationFutures, Katharine Mobley with WeCareCard, Megan Johnson and Marcus Cannady with Sparkmarket, Brett Grayson with Good Country Films

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