7. Patrick Mumford, President and CEO of Gaston Business Association

We're thrilled to welcome Patrick Mumford, the President, and CEO of the Gaston Business Association to our sound booth. By way of introduction, we wouldn't begin by listing his successes, although there are many. We would first talk about and celebrate his approach to his job and his friendships. Clearly outlining for us the difference between intention and impact, this former Corporate Real Estate Executive, Charlotte City Councilman, and City of Charlotte Neighborhood & Business Services Director tells us succinctly that the best way to start a business dialog with Gaston County is to begin by really listening. Or as he puts it, "Make it relational, not just transactional." Those who take this approach often find more success than those who don't." In addition to a lively dialog about how he manages the many facets of business development, we uncovered a few fun, personal stories to also keep you thoroughly entertained. These tidbits include the fact that his favorite Gaston eatery is Webb Custom Kitchen, and cycling is how he manages stress. (Sounds smart to us!) But the meat of the discussion is revealing that Patrick is a real guy, just like those who live and work in the thirteen municipalities that make historic and storied Gaston County tucked along the Catawba River.