Episodios

  • From Food Creations to Handmade Jewelry: Wesleyan Kids Prep for Artist Market 2025

    From Food Creations to Handmade Jewelry: Wesleyan Kids Prep for Artist Market 2025
    Apr 8 2025
    In this episode of Peachtree Corners Life, host Rico Figliolini spotlights three remarkable student artists featured in this year’s Wesleyan Artist Market. Eighth graders Kimberly Wang and Nika Jensen, along with sixth grader Carter Jensen, share their creative journeys—ranging from edible art like fruit jellies and peppermint bark to handmade jewelry and custom-designed bags.

    Kimberly talks about her love for food art and balancing sweetness with fruity freshness, while Nika and Carter discuss building a jewelry business that also gives back—donating proceeds to families in the Philippines. This isn’t just an artist market; it’s a showcase of purpose-driven, globally inspired young talent. The event runs April 25–26 at Wesleyan School and is open to the public.

    ✅ Podcast Takeaways:
    • Kimberly Wang creates handmade edible treats, balancing flavor and freshness for the show.

    • Nika and Carter Jensen co-run a jewelry and fashion accessory business, inspired by global travel and cultural experiences.

    • Nika donates part of her proceeds to support families in the Philippines.

    • All three students are deeply involved in extracurriculars—from musicals and marching band to math club and academic bowl.

    • The Wesleyan Artist Market features 24 student artists and over 70 professionals—open to the public April 25–26.
    Más Menos
    27 m
  • Peachtree Corners Roundabout Plans, Tech Park Housing, and Zoning Updates

    Peachtree Corners Roundabout Plans, Tech Park Housing, and Zoning Updates
    Apr 8 2025
    In this episode of Peachtree Corners Life, host Rico Figliolini sits down with City Manager Brian Johnson for a high-energy, no-holds-barred conversation on the city's future. With big moves happening across Tech Park, Peachtree Corners Circle, and the Forum area, this discussion dives into the city’s strategy for smart growth, safety, and innovation.

    Brian shares updates on proposed roundabouts, equity-driven housing developments, the transformation of aging office space, and how the city is positioning itself as a hub for autonomous vehicles and drone delivery.

    From bold rezoning efforts to a proactive stance on data center development, this is a must-listen for residents, businesses, and anyone interested in the smart evolution of one of Metro Atlanta's most innovative cities.🔍 Key Takeaways
    • New Roundabout proposed at Peachtree Corners Circle near the Forum to address traffic safety.

    • Multiple equity-based residential projects replacing outdated office spaces, including at 20-22 Tech Park, the Day Building, and 333 Research Court.

    • Curiosity Corner Mobility Hub coming to Tech Park, featuring EV stations, food trucks, and drone test areas.

    • Autonomous vehicles like May Mobility already operating with zero drivers on Peachtree Corners streets.

    • City's proactive zoning changes include special-use permits for data centers and new infill residential zoning.

    • Merger of Planning Commission and Zoning Board of Appeals to streamline decisions and reduce redundancy.
    Más Menos
    41 m
  • Expanding Horizons: How KGM Technologies Balances Defense, Medical, and Precision Manufacturing

    Expanding Horizons: How KGM Technologies Balances Defense, Medical, and Precision Manufacturing
    Mar 21 2025
    In this episode of UrbanEBB, host Rico Figliolini speaks with Kyle Grob, CEO and founder of Peachtree Corners-based KGM Technologies, a precision manufacturing company specializing in firearm suppressors and expanding into medical device production. Kyle shares insights on growing a business during COVID-19, navigating ATF regulations, and how Georgia fosters innovation in manufacturing.

    Just a few key takeaways:
    • Why are suppressors crucial for hearing safety and law enforcement?
    • KGM’s role in producing stroke rehabilitation devices and scaling medical manufacturing.
    • The challenges of hiring skilled workers in modern manufacturing.
    • Why trade schools and vocational training are more important than ever.
    Más Menos
    31 m
  • Inside the Solicitor General’s Office: Lisamarie Bristol on Justice in Gwinnett County

    Inside the Solicitor General’s Office: Lisamarie Bristol on Justice in Gwinnett County
    Mar 21 2025
    On this episode of Peachtree Corners Life, host Rico Figliolini speaks with Gwinnett County Solicitor General Lisamarie Bristol about her work addressing the county’s growing case volume and implementing new justice initiatives.

    Key Takeaways & Highlights:
    • Understanding the Solicitor General’s Role – How the office prosecutes misdemeanors, traffic offenses, and quality-of-life cases.
    • 4,000-Case Backlog Solution – Strategies to streamline processes and improve case resolution speed.
    • New Legal Resource Website – How Gwinnett residents can access critical legal information and victim advocacy services.
    • Diversion Program Success – Over 1,400 successful cases, providing alternatives to prosecution and preventing repeat offenses.
    • Special Victims Unit – Dedicated to handling sensitive cases like misdemeanor sex crimes and vehicular homicides.
    • Teen Dating Violence & Social Media Risks – How technology is impacting legal cases involving young people.
    • Expanding Access to Legal Support – Partnerships with Mosaic Georgia, PADV, and HIMSA House to assist victims and underserved communities.
    • Justice System Challenges – Addressing mental health, substance abuse, and legislative changes affecting prosecution.
    Listen in for an insightful conversation on justice, reform, and the future of law enforcement in Gwinnett County!
    Más Menos
    48 m
  • Why Patient Experience Matters: A Conversation with Dr. Aristo Shyn

    Why Patient Experience Matters: A Conversation with Dr. Aristo Shyn
    Mar 21 2025
    On this episode of Peachtree Corners Life, host Rico Figliolini sits down with Dr. Aristo Shyn, owner of Link Dental Care, to discuss his journey from corporate dentistry to running a thriving private practice.

    Key Takeaways & Highlights:
    • From Corporate to Private Practice – Why Dr. Shyn left corporate dentistry to build his own patient-focused practice.
    • The Power of Technology in Dentistry – How 3D imaging, digital scans, and upcoming Botox treatments improve patient care.
    • Growing a Business – The challenges of launching and expanding a dental office without prior business experience.
    • Community Involvement – Supporting local schools, charities, and offering free dental makeovers.
    • Balancing Work & Family – Juggling a growing business while raising two kids.
    Listen in to learn how Dr. Shyn built a thriving dental practice while prioritizing technology, patient experience, and community engagement!
    Más Menos
    23 m
  • Burn The Ships: Alex Wright on Committing to Success & Helping Businesses Thrive

    Burn The Ships: Alex Wright on Committing to Success & Helping Businesses Thrive
    Mar 21 2025
    Discover how Alex Wright, a former U.S. Naval officer, founding member of the City of Peachtree Corners, and corporate finance veteran, made the bold decision to "burn the ships" and launch his own fractional CFO firm. Hosted by Rico Figliolini

    Key Takeaways:
    • Burn the Ships Mentality – Why Alex embraced total commitment when leaving corporate America to start his own business.
    • Solving Business Challenges – How a fractional CFO helps entrepreneurs manage cash flow, optimize processes, and grow sustainably.
    • Financial Storytelling – The power of translating financial data into actionable insights for business owners.
    • City Leadership & Business Strategy – Lessons learned from helping launch Peachtree Corners as a smart city and how that applies to business growth.
    • The Role of Technology in Finance – How tools like QuickBooks and Power BI can improve financial planning—if used correctly.
    • Long-Term Business Planning – Why forecasting, budgeting, and understanding financial trends are crucial for sustained success.
    Más Menos
    48 m
  • The Future of Simpsonwood Park, Housing Changes & Peachtree Corners Elections – A Conversation with Eric Christ

    The Future of Simpsonwood Park, Housing Changes & Peachtree Corners Elections – A Conversation with Eric Christ
    Mar 9 2025
    Join Rico Figliolini as he sits down with Peachtree Corners City Councilmember Eric Christ for a deep dive into the latest city developments, from parks to elections and housing.

    🔹 Simpsonwood Park – What’s next for the 227-acre green space? Eric shares updates on possible improvements, conservation efforts, and the latest community input.
    🔹 Jones Bridge Park Concerns – How the city and county are addressing parking, litter, and after-hours issues.
    🔹 Housing & Development – The Gwinnett Housing Authority’s new apartment conversion project and its impact on the area.
    🔹 Upcoming City Elections – Why voting might finally get easier and how local races could shape Peachtree Corners’ future.Tune in for insightful discussion on the evolving landscape of Peachtree Corners!

    Más Menos
    59 m
  • Peachtree Corners Update: Deer Overpopulation, Simpsonwood Park & Illegal Nightclubs

    Peachtree Corners Update: Deer Overpopulation, Simpsonwood Park & Illegal Nightclubs
    Feb 5 2025
    In this episode of Peachtree Corners Life, host Rico Figliolini sits down with City Manager Brian Johnson to discuss pressing local issues, including deer overpopulation and potential culling efforts, a school digital signage request, and Simpsonwood park. They also dive into the latest legislation affecting impact of tort reform on city liability, annexation, and drone regulations. Plus, hear how the city’s marshals uncovered an illegal nightclub operating under the radar. Stay informed on the latest developments shaping Peachtree Corners. Listen now!

    Timestamped Topics:
    00:04:09 – Deer Overpopulation and Potential Culling Efforts
    00:14:41 – Digital Signage Regulations for Community Schools
    00:20:00 – Navigating Lawsuits and Tort Reform
    00:30:50 – Parking Lot Slope Adjustments and Liability Concerns
    00:32:31 – Navigating Legislation Impacts on Construction and Annexation
    00:38:33 – Regulating Drones in Public Spaces
    00:44:24 – Uncovering an Illegal Nightclub Operation
    00:51:37 – Discussing City Matters Behind the Scenes
    Más Menos
    54 m
adbl_web_global_use_to_activate_webcro805_stickypopup