We asked some male leaders in Roswell their thoughts and insights on a few questions:
What does leadership mean to you, and how has that definition changed over the years?
What is one habit, routine, or mindset that has helped you succeed both personally and professionally?
When you’re not working, where can people most likely find you?
What advice would you give to the next generation of young men?
Ali Azadi: board-certified orthodontist & owner of Canton Orthodontics of Roswell.
Helping my patients achieve their dream smile through braces and Invisalign is one of my life's greatest pleasures and a responsibility I cherish deeply!
I view a leader as someone who strives to serve others- uniting in a team effort in pursuit of a common good. I believe a great leader is someone who constantly places the needs of others before their own- serving with compassion and empathy. A full life is one that is spent with others and achieves something positive that lasts- this is a goal that cannot be accomplished alone, and thus, I feel a leader is someone who takes the time to connect with others in a true, meaningful way and aids them in whatever manner they can. I believe that my sense of leadership was developed largely by my parents, and thus, while it has changed slightly as I've aged, the core spirit of my leadership identity has remained the same.
I believe one of the most critical habits for a person to develop is an overwhelming sense of gratitude. For anyone to find any success or achievement in life is a feat that requires the support, guidance, and love of others. Thus, any success I have found in my life is something that I attribute to the communities that have supported me in my endeavors. As a result, I spend a few minutes each day reflecting on things I am grateful for. I also keep a journal in which I write the high point of each day. Keeping this habit throughout the challenges of dental school, residency, and when first beginning my career helped immensely in reducing the stressors present, as they let me remember that no matter the challenge ahead, it was being taken on by not only myself, but through all those who have aided me in tackling all challenges prior.
When I'm not helping patients in the office, I love spending time with my family and also taking some quiet time to build plastic model kits. I also enjoy swimming, running on the Greenway, and volunteering with local schools.
If I were to provide one piece of advice to the next generation of young men, I would say the most critical skill to develop for a fulfilled life is empathy. The only lasting legacy a person can leave behind is their relationships with others, and how they treated the other inhabitants coexisting in this beautiful world. Through practicing empathy, I believe a more impactful and enjoyable life may be found. A kind, compassionate heart is a happy one. If you can pursue service to others, and connect with everyone around you in a genuine, human way, I am certain that when you look back on your life one day, you will be happy with the journey you took.
Ted Basco: Visit Roswell, Director of Sales & MPI Georgia, 2026 Chapter President
To me, leadership is the ability to create clarity, build trust, and inspire people to move forward together toward a shared goal. Early in my career, I defined leadership more narrowly. It was about having the right answers, setting direction, and driving results. I believed success came from being the most knowledgeable person in the room.
Over time, that perspective evolved. I’ve learned that effective leadership is less about having all the answers and more about asking the right questions, listening with intention, and creating space for others to contribute their strengths. It’s about fostering an environment where people feel heard, valued, and empowered to do their best work.
Working in the hospitality and meetings industry has further shaped my view of leadership as an act of service. It’s about anticipating needs, building relationships, and creating experiences that bring people together. Internally, that means supporting my team, investing in their growth, and helping cultivate the next generation of leaders.
Today, I see leadership as a responsibility to elevate others while staying grounded in empathy, integrity, and purpose. It’s not just about achieving results, but how you achieve them and the lasting impact you leave.
One mindset that has consistently driven both my personal and professional success is a commitment to intentional growth. I make a conscious effort to stay curious—about people, industry trends, and my own strengths and areas for improvement.
That curiosity shows up in meaningful ways: seeking feedback, reflecting on what’s working and what isn’t, and being open to new ideas even when they challenge my assumptions. In an industry built on relationships and constantly evolving experiences, staying open and adaptable has been essential.
I’ve also learned to approach challenges with a solutions-oriented mindset. Instead of focusing on obstacles, I focus on what’s possible and how to move forward. That perspective has helped me navigate change, lead with confidence, and maintain balance in work and life.
When I’m not working, you’ll most likely find me spending quality time with my family. I’m a husband and proud dad of two, and a lot of our time is centered around being together—whether at home, traveling, or enjoying everyday moments. We’re also fortunate to have a close-knit group of friends we consider our “village,” and we spend a lot of time building those relationships and making memories together.
I stay connected to the community through my involvement with the Chick-fil-A Peach Bowl, where I serve on the Board of Advisors and as a VIP host. It’s a role I genuinely enjoy because it blends my passion for hospitality, sports, and service.
Outside of that, I'm a big golf and Formula One fan. And of course, our mini goldendoodle makes sure there’s never a dull moment at home.
My advice to the next generation of young men is to focus on building character just as much as you focus on building success. Titles, achievements, and recognition may open doors, but integrity, consistency, and how you treat people matter most.
Invest in relationships early and often. Mentors, peers, family, and friends will shape your perspective, challenge you to grow, and support you through wins and setbacks. Don’t underestimate the value of surrounding yourself with a strong, positive community.
Be willing to do the work. Success rarely happens overnight, and there’s no substitute for preparation, discipline, and resilience. At the same time, stay open to learning. Ask questions, seek feedback, and don’t be afraid to adjust your path as you grow.
Finally, define success for yourself. Make sure it includes not just professional accomplishments, but also the kind of person you want to be, the impact you want to have, and the life you want to build with the people who matter most.
Jerry Orlans: Past long-term Roswell City Councilman
Leadership, to me, has become a lot more about serving than simply leading from the front. Earlier on, I probably thought leadership meant having the vision, making the calls and driving things forward. And that’s part of it but over time, my perspective shifted to listening, encouraging and helping others solve their problems daily.
The biggest change for me has been realizing that leadership isn’t about position – it’s about trust. And trust is built through consistency, humility and genuinely caring about people.
Honestly, it comes down to a few simple things—getting good sleep, meaning consistent bedtimes and wake times, taking time for daily prayer, and living by my calendar. When those are in place, I feel more prepared both personally and professionally. Most likely with my family. Whether it’s something simple like sharing a meal, taking walks or playing cards/games… and of course visiting Hilton Head Island! These are the moments I enjoy most. After spending 25 years on the Roswell City Council, I find myself continuing to spend time at community events while listening to peoples ideas and suggestions.
I’d like to tell younger generation them to focus more on who they’re becoming rather than just what they’re achieving. Character, integrity and consistency matter more than people realize. Don’t be afraid of responsibility. The things that challenge you are usually the things that shape you. Surround yourself with people who will be honest with you and push you to grow. You don’t have to have everything figured out but showing up every day with the right mindset and a willingness to listen and learn will take you a long way.
Mike Thomas: MTG Marketing, Principal
Leadership initially meant integrity to me—doing the right thing, even when no one is watching, and making decisions that serve the greater good. I believed strong leadership was rooted in character and setting the right example. Over the years, through my faith, I’ve come to understand the value of servant leadership as represented in the Bible—leading by serving, putting others first, and realizing leadership is less about authority and more about responsibility. Today, I see leadership as both: integrity as the foundation and servant leadership as the purpose—using your influence to lift others up and make a meaningful difference.
One habit that has helped me both personally and professionally is prioritizing good sleep. I’ve learned that being rested impacts everything—my focus, patience, decision-making, and overall ability to show up well for others. My daily routine also starts with being productive early in the morning. Starting the day with purpose helps set the tone for everything that follows. The mindset that keeps me grounded is Jeremiah 29:11: “For I know the plans I have for you,” declares the Lord, “plans to prosper you and not to harm you, plans to give you hope and a future.” It reminds me to trust that God’s plan for my life is greater than anything I could create on my own, and that perspective brings both peace and confidence.
When I’m not working, you’ll most likely find me at the baseball field coaching my son or in the theater watching my daughter do what she loves on stage. That’s where I’m happiest—cheering them on and being part of their journey.
My advice to the next generation of young men would be: don’t be afraid to put in the work. Effort always pays off. Success rarely comes from shortcuts—it comes from consistency, discipline, and showing up even when it’s hard. I’ve believe that “the good ones work until they get it right, but the great ones work until they can’t get it wrong.” That mindset applies to sports, business, faith, and life. Putting in the effort, staying committed, and being willing to grow will always separate you in the long run. oh... and be humble and accept responsibility! That's pretty good advice for the next generation too!
Gerald Fadayomi: Founder & Senior Leader, Missional Family
As a younger leader I believed leadership was about getting to the decision making seat. As I’ve grown in leadership I’ve learned that leadership is all about helping people accomplish the dreams in their heart. I believe that we have a season to steward a persons growth and development. It’s our job as leaders to help them develop the skills, character, and grit to help them get to what God has next for them, wherever that may be.
The mindset that has been most helpful for me is learning not to be afraid of a no. Whether it’s asking someone to work with you, asking for advice, fundraising, or asking for someone’s time. The fear of rejection often keeps us from the yes that has the potential to change the trajectory of our lives. One 'yes' could be the difference-maker.
Generally you’ll find me doing one of 3 things: spending time with my family, playing golf, or watching LeBron James.
Let your 'yes' be 'yes' and your 'no' be 'no'. Your word is all you have to stand on. When you commit to something follow through. When you say no, mean it and stick with it. People won’t always like your answer but they will respect your consistency.