Jonathan talks to Dana Barrett and Dr. Alan Urech about Excel Federal Credit Union. Excel is an employer-based federal credit union and 200 Office Affiliate based in Norcross, GA. It was started way back in 1952 by a group of federal employees wanting a place to put their money where it would work for them – not someone else. Excel serves over 400 companies and, unlike most banks, Excel is not for profit. This means that rather than looking to make money for investors, everything they do is about serving their customers. Jonathan also talks about some specific local businesses that Excel has helped including medical and office buildings in Canton, assisted living facilities, a hotel and retail center in Augusta, local churches, and even a charter school in Smyrna. Excel’s website can be found here.

Matt is CEO and Managing Director of The VVA (Virtual Venture Accelerator) Group and a 200 Office Affiliate. He started The VVA Group in 1997 after earning a business degree from Boston College and working in a few different corporate positions. Along with his partner, Greg Chevalier, Matt advises small and medium sized businesses in all industries for an affordable fee. On this edition of 200 Office Radio, Matt discusses the group’s mission of adding value to their clients’ companies at a crucial point in the business life cycle. Find out more about The VVA Group here!

Millicent St. Claire (left) is the founder of LIGMO and Donna Kelsick (right) is the organization’s Executive Director. To borrow a phrase from St. Claire, “So many things in life are simply RIDICULOUS!” LIGMO helps it’s clients be their best selves and bring out the best in others by encouraging them to, “Let it go, move on.” They run training seminars in corporate and school settings. LIGMO offers a series of workshops on topics as varied as customer service, team building, stress management, and others. The core of LIGMO’s message is all about becoming aware of behaviors and attitudes that are counterproductive in our personal and professional lives and then using that awareness to make positive changes. More information can be found at http://www.ligmo.com/.

Brandon (left) and Jordan (right) discuss their first business, Kid’s Toys Inc., and their current venture, Making Money for Teens – a CD series which teaches kids about stocks, investing, and tools for managing a small business. The boys were joined by their mothers, Tanya Iverson and Carla Williams, in the studio as they talked about their inspirations, favorite things, and greatest challenges involved in owning and operating a business. The boys also give some great tips to any young people interested in starting their own companies. You can find more info on Kid’s Toys Inc. here and much more on Making Money for Teens here. We wish Brandon and Jordan all the best in their future endeavors!

Dr. Alan Urech and Elizabeth Gordon of Business Radio X speak with Thompson and Kendrick about fast-growing metro Atlanta counties, the process of running for political office, entrepreneurship in our state. They discuss significant legislation planned for 2012 including state taxes and decreased business regulations. Thompson and Kendrick are also well-versed on the topic of small business ownership as they both run their own law firms (Thompson’s in Norcross and Kendrick’s in Lithonia). They both used the air time to encourage people to get involved in local government by contacting their local Chambers of Commerce and state congressional leaders through http://www.legis.ga.gov. You can find Thompson’s personal website here and Kendrick’s here.

Alan Urech and LaShanda Neal

On this show, Allison talks to Alan Urech and Dana Barrett about her previous experience as Private Events Director at the Buckhead Club and Banquet Manager at the Capital City Club. She discusses recent events at 200 Peachtree including conferences, weddings, exhibitions, and fundraisers. The group also talks about memories of the old Davison’s/Macy’s department stores. Finally, Allison promotes the flexibility of both The Atrium at 200 Peachtree as well as 200 Conference Center to be customized for a wide array of events including weddings, car shows, and even acrobatic performances! For more information, log onto www.200peachtree.com.

 

Listen in as David talks to Dr. Alan Urech about franchising and the implications of expanding his restaurant business into new markets. Rising Roll Gourmet was established in 1996 to satisfy a demand for quality food in small spaces such as office buildings and college campuses. They have one of there Rising Roll Gourmet Express locations right here in 200 Office! Their food is made fresh on-site every day and around 40% of their business comes from catering. Rising Roll Gourmet also has plenty of healthy, low-calorie menu options available. You can find out more at http://risingroll.com/.