Grow Your Business and Grow Your Wealth

What happens when legal strategy meets human understanding? In this episode of Grow Your Business & Grow Your Wealth, guest host Barry Goldwater sits down with Lisa M. Cukier, Partner at Rubin Rudman LLP, to explore how empathy and expertise intersect in the world of family law, trust and estate matters, and fiduciary services. Lisa shares how her concierge-level approach helps families and individuals manage life's most sensitive transitions — from complex divorces and guardianships to multigenerational estate planning and wealth preservation. As both a strategist and advocate, she guides high-net-worth clients, fiduciaries, and family offices through deeply personal legal matters with discretion, insight, and heart. Through decades of experience, Lisa has developed a unique blend of legal mastery and emotional intelligence — using creativity, collaboration, and compassion to help clients protect what matters most. Her approach reminds us that even in high-stakes law, humanity and clarity can lead the way.

Are you building wealth — or just hoping it lasts?In this episode of Grow Your Business & Grow Your Wealth, host Gary Heldt speaks with Katherine M. Sheehan, Managing Director and Wealth Strategist at Crestwood Advisors, about how smart planning protects both your business and your legacy.Katherine breaks down what every entrepreneur should know about estate and succession planning — from powers of attorney to corporate recordkeeping — and explains how the Qualified Small Business Stock (QSBS) provision can help business owners exclude up to $10 million in gains when selling their company.You'll learn how to avoid costly mistakes, when to bring in specialized advisors, and how to prepare the next generation to carry your vision forward.

What if you could legally pay zero in taxes as a small business owner?In this episode of Grow Your Business & Grow Your Wealth, guest host Lauren Gidley speaks with Carlotta Thompson, founder of Tax Strategists of America. Carlotta is recognized nationwide for helping small business owners minimize their tax burden and retain more of their earnings. She goes beyond traditional tax prep to create proactive strategies that align with long-term business goals, empowering entrepreneurs to make better decisions with confidence. Key Takeaways:➔ Most CPAs act as historians, not strategists.➔ Real estate strategies like cost segregation and 1031 exchanges reduce taxes.➔ Entity structure is the most important overlooked strategy.➔ Congress writes tax laws for billionaires, but business owners can use them too.➔ Tax strategy is an investment that saves more than it costs. Want to learn the exact steps to legally lower your taxes—even to zero?Connect with Tax Strategists of America and discover how proactive planning can transform your finances. Visit TaxStrategistsofAmerica.com to explore training, resources, and strategies that help you keep more of what you earn. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Are you unknowingly setting yourself up for a massive tax bill in retirement?This week on Grow Your Business & Grow Your Wealth, host Gary Heldt welcomes Jonathan Thomas, CFP®, Private Wealth Advisor at LVW Advisors, for a candid look at the hidden pitfalls that can derail even the best retirement plan. Jonathan reveals how overfunding tax-deferred accounts, ignoring liquidity, and delaying estate planning can lead to unnecessary taxes and lost opportunities. From smart Roth conversion timing to building tax diversification, Jonathan shares the same strategies he uses with high-net-worth families to create lasting financial confidence. You'll also hear why independent advisors can offer more flexible, client-first solutions and how small shifts in your financial plan today can open doors for early retirement, charitable giving, and true generational wealth. Key Takeaways:→ The #1 retirement mistake that could raise your future tax bill→ Why liquidity and diversification are essential for business owners→ How to use Roth conversions and tax-smart planning for lifelong savings→ The overlooked importance of estate planning, wills, and term life insurance→ Simple, practical steps every young family can take to secure their financial future→ Quote from Jonathan Thomas:"I like to make the complicated really simple for people—because once they understand it, they feel at ease and realize they can retire earlier than they ever thought possible."→ Connect with Jonathan:

What if you could turn your tax bill into a wealth-building opportunity using the same IRS-approved strategies as high-income earners? In this insightful conversation, guest host Sam Russell, Retirement & Leverage Consultant at Drass Insurance Agency, sits down with Ralf Reinberg, CEO of Taxes Made EZ, to explore creative yet compliant tax strategies that help business owners and W-2 earners save—and even earn—money through the power of smart tax equity planning.Ralf shares over 40 years of experience working with thousands of clients nationwide, explaining how strategies like solar tax equity can deliver both tax deductions and passive income. He walks through real-world examples showing how a six-figure tax bill can become a multi-year return on investment. Whether you're a doctor, real estate investor, or entrepreneur, this episode reveals actionable ways to make your taxes work for you—not against you.

In this episode of Grow Your Business & Grow Your Wealth, host Gary Heldt sits down with Gary Martoccio, founder of The Martoccio Firm and one of the nation's leading employment law attorneys representing employees in disputes against their employers. With more than $50 million recovered and over 200 Federal cases handled, Gary brings firsthand insights into the legal landscape that every business owner must understand. Together, they discuss the real risks hidden in hiring, firing, and managing people—from wrongful termination and discrimination claims to misclassification and retaliation cases. Gary also shares what smart business owners can do to protect themselves legally, maintain ethical practices, and build workplaces that foster trust, compliance, and productivity. What You'll Learn → The top 3 mistakes that trigger costly employee lawsuits→ How to document workplace issues before they escalate→ The role of the EEOC and what to expect during an investigation→ Steps small business owners can take today to minimize legal exposure→ Why understanding employment law is critical to long-term business success Gary Martoccio is an employment law attorney and the founder of The Martoccio Firm, which exclusively represents employees in legal disputes against their employers. With extensive experience in both State and Federal courts, as well as before the EEOC, Gary has recovered more than $50 million for clients. His mission: to level the playing field and educate both employees and business owners on their rights and responsibilities in today's workplace. Connect with Gary on LinkedIn Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

What if your business could scale sustainably—without burnout or chaos? Viral financial expert and billion-dollar business coach Monica Garcia Duggal reveals how to achieve lasting wealth using her signature Financial BITES Method© and Whole Health Wealth System™. In this engaging conversation with host Gary Heldt, Monica shares how entrepreneurs can think like institutional investors, create systems that support freedom, and build profit-driven businesses that thrive in any market. Monica Garcia Duggal is a global financial strategist with over 30 years of experience in investment banking, mergers & acquisitions, and entrepreneurial finance. As the creator of the Whole Health Plan™ and Financial BITES Method©, she helps founders and leaders align their finances, strategy, and mindset for total-life success. In this episode, she joins host Gary Heldt, CPA and wealth strategist, to discuss why most business owners leave money on the table—and how a holistic approach to budgeting, investing, taxes, exit planning, and systems can change everything.

What if your financial partner truly knew your name, understood your community, and fought for your long-term stability? In this episode of Grow Your Business & Grow Your Wealth, guest host Barry Goldwater sits down with Kevin George, CPA and President & CEO of New England Teamsters Federal Credit Union. Formerly CFO at Naveo Credit Union, Kevin shares how his background in accounting and community service led him to champion the credit union model. From helping members avoid financial pitfalls to strengthening union families with dignified retirements, Kevin reveals how credit unions provide the kind of personal service and objective advice big banks simply can't match. ➡️ 5 Key Takeaways → Credit unions focus on people helping people rather than shareholders, giving members better rates and objective advice. → Kevin's career journey shows how professional pivots—from aspiring FBI agent to CPA to credit union leader—can create impact. → Teamsters Federal Credit Union combines union strength with modern technology to compete with large banks. → Community outreach, from toy drives to youth sports sponsorships, is central to building trust and relationships. → Small businesses benefit from direct access to decision-makers in credit unions, ensuring tailored financial solutions.

What if every workplace conflict could become a growth opportunity instead of a costly battle?

What if scaling your business wasn't about chasing the next “big idea” but about applying math, discipline, and strategy to your sales process? In this episode of Grow Your Business & Grow Your Wealth, Gary welcomes Doug C. Brown, CEO of CEO Sales Strategies and a renowned expert who has built over 35 businesses and generated more than $900 million in sales.  Doug has served as President of Sales and Training for Tony Robbins and Chet Holmes, boosting close rates by 143% and driving a 4,150% increase in product sales. He now helps entrepreneurs and business leaders implement predictable, math-based systems to dramatically increase revenue and profits.  The conversation delves into why identifying your ideal buyer matters more than closing skills, how overlooked follow-up can lead to millions in lost revenue, and why anchoring your business in truthful numbers is non-negotiable. 5 Key Takeaways → Sales growth isn't magic—it's applying math to the right metrics. → The biggest mistake owners make is not identifying their ideal buyer. → Speed to follow-up can double conversion rates—sometimes within minutes. → Long-term success comes from relationship capital, not one-off transactions. → Anchoring goals to truthful numbers and measuring the right metrics prevents costly blind spots. Quote from Doug “Sales isn't math, but sales revenue growth is how you apply math to the right metrics.” Ready to strengthen your sales strategy and grow your wealth? Connect with Doug on his website https://ceosalesstrategies.com/ Subscribe to Grow Your Business & Grow Your Wealth for more expert insights each week, and don't forget to share this episode with a business owner who's ready to scale. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

How did a commercial banker who lived just six blocks away from his future employer end up transforming a small investment firm from breaking even to nearly doubling its business in four years? Brad Wheeler, President of Shaker Investments, shares his journey from commercial banking to leading a growing investment firm. With over 25 years in financial services, Brad has grown Shaker from seven employees and breaking even to eleven employees while nearly doubling the business in four years. He discusses the challenges of scaling a business, the importance of client retention over acquisition, and practical strategies for business development and client communication. 5 Key Takeaways➤ Client retention is more valuable than acquisition because the hardest client to get is the one you lost. ➤ Balance sheet analysis reveals business blind spots that profit and loss statements miss. ➤ Strategic pivoting requires honest self-assessment and letting go of ego when strategies aren't working. ➤ Communication frequency must match individual client preferences to prevent attrition. ➤ Transparency during both market wins and losses builds stronger client relationships. Quote by Brad: "When we make a mistake, that's when you got to get on the phone, and it's when you can talk to people. And I would say most people, when you do that, they're unbelievable. They're understanding and they respect the fact that you picked up the phone and made that call."Connect with BradWebsite: https://www.shakerinvest.com/Email: brad@shaker-invest.com Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

What happens when your company's processes are costing you more than they're helping you?In this episode of Grow Your Business & Grow Your Wealth, guest host Jack W. Reeder, CLU, ChFC sits down with Hugh Glazer, Managing Director of Winterview Group. Hugh shares why businesses—whether start-ups or long-established firms—must step back from daily operations and map their transaction flows. From uncovering inefficiencies to improving cash flow and creating better decision-making frameworks, Hugh explains how visual workflows can save money, strengthen performance, and reveal opportunities for growth.Drawing on his decades of experience, including his work with the Goldman Sachs 10,000 Small Businesses program, Hugh talks about the most common mistakes companies make, real-world turnaround stories, and why entrepreneurs need to invest in infrastructure, data analysis, and forward planning to thrive.

Have you ever wondered why some small businesses thrive on LinkedIn while others struggle to get noticed?In this episode of Grow Your Business & Grow Your Wealth, Gary Heldt sits down with Justin Vajko, founder of Dialog and a seasoned marketing strategist, to uncover the secrets behind social media success. Justin's journey began with a childhood hobby of designing logos, which evolved into a career managing multi-million-dollar marketing initiatives before launching his own firm. Today, he helps founders amplify their pipeline, strengthen their personal brand, and position themselves as thought leaders with smart video and LinkedIn strategies. Whether you're a solopreneur or running a growing business, Justin's insights will help you avoid marketing pitfalls, leverage your personal brand, and turn LinkedIn into a lead-generating machine.

❓What if one small change each month could double your business revenue in two years? In this episode, Gary sits down with Karl Maier, a seasoned CFO and business growth advisor who has helped five companies double their sales in just 24 months. As the founder of Abunden, Karl reveals the surprising reasons companies stall—and how to fix them with smart systems, cash flow forecasting, and people-focused strategies. Forget the usual "cut costs" advice. Karl brings a fresh, empowering perspective for business owners looking to scale with sanity, strategy, and sustainability. From solving payroll chaos to securing the right kind of funding, this conversation is a must-listen for any entrepreneur ready to get out of the weeds and into growth mode.

How are digital assets transforming the way entrepreneurs and business owners build wealth for the future? In this episode of Grow Your Business & Grow Your Wealth, host Gary Heldt welcomes Jake Claver, Founder and CEO of Digital Family Office. Jake's firm specializes in bringing the sophisticated financial tools once reserved for ultra-high-net-worth families to business owners and professionals. With a tech-forward approach, he helps clients minimize tax liabilities, optimize financial operations, and build sustainable wealth in today's digital economy..Key Takeaways➔ Digital assets are no longer fringe — family offices are using them as a serious wealth strategy.➔ Institutional custody and $100M+ insurance give clients peace of mind in a volatile market.➔ Smart portfolio allocation keeps crypto exposure low while still unlocking asymmetric upside.➔ Tax planning and regulatory awareness are critical as laws tighten around digital currencies.➔ Jake's entrepreneurial journey proves that solving your own financial challenges can scale into solutions for others. Call to ActionDiscover how digital assets and family office strategies can help you grow and protect your wealth. Listen now to Grow Your Business & Grow Your Wealth with Gary Heldt for insights that blend innovation, security, and long-term financial success. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Are you running your money like a great business—or is your business running you? This week, host Gary Heldt welcomes Greg Luken, founder of Luken Wealth Management and author of Unleash Your Financial Superpowers: How the First-Generation Wealthy Do It (and You Can Too). With nearly four decades in the industry, Greg shares how his unconventional path—from biology student and musician to math-based wealth advisor—shaped his fresh approach to financial management. Greg reveals the three financial superpowers every entrepreneur and wealth builder needs: purpose, planning, and disciplined execution. He also introduces the two villains sabotaging financial success—FinPorn (financial pornography) and the Lever Denier.  This conversation is packed with stories, mindset shifts, and actionable wisdom for first-generation wealth creators navigating the balance between business, family, and life. Key Takeaways:→ Purpose is your North Star—without clarity, wealth drifts.→ A concrete, step-by-step plan saves mental energy and drives results.→ Discipline to execute turns theory into lasting wealth.→ Beware of “FinPorn”—financial noise that seduces with false certainty.→ First-generation wealth requires mindset shifts: serve your business, don't become its servant. Quote from Greg Luken:"It's not about intelligence. It's not about having all the information. It's about those simple disciplines—just being faithful and consistent with them." Learn More & Connect:

Are you a family business owner who thinks you can just snap your fingers and sell your business for top dollar when you're ready to retire?In this eye-opening episode, Gary Heldt sits down with Lowell Mora, President of Impact CFO, who brings 35 years of financial leadership experience to small and medium-sized businesses. Lowell shares his journey from Arthur Andersen to helping family-owned businesses prepare for successful exits.  Lowell reveals the shocking statistic that nearly half of all family-owned businesses end up in bankruptcy within two years of the founder's death due to lack of planning. Lowell discusses the critical differences between traditional accounting/tax services and strategic CFO work, emphasizing the importance of 3-5 year exit planning, building strong management teams, and viewing your business as an asset rather than just an income stream.Key Takeaways ➤ Nearly half of all family-owned businesses go bankrupt within two years of the founder's death due to lack of succession planning. ➤ Most family businesses suffer from dangerous customer concentration (often 70% with one client) and lack strong autonomous management teams - both major red flags for potential buyers. ➤ You need 3-5 years of strategic preparation before selling your business, including professionalizing accounting records, conducting margin analysis, and building operational systems. ➤ There's a crucial difference between your tax-preparing CPA and a fractional CFO - one looks backward for tax compliance, the other looks forward for business growth and exit strategy. ➤ Business owners must shift their mindset from viewing their company as an income stream to seeing it as an asset that needs to be optimized for maximum value.Notable Quotes from Lowell Mora"I've never met a business owner who thought their business was worth less than what it was. Typically, they are amazed that there's no real intrinsic value from an EBITDA perspective at a point in time - there's work that needs to be done.""What happens if you get hit by a bus? Your spouse will be okay because you have life insurance, but you have nobody to run this business. All these employees you treat as family will be grieving you AND dealing with a business crisis."How to Reach Lowell MoraEmail: Lowell@impact-cfo.netPhone: 847-212-4081Website: https://www.impactcfo.net/Visit his website for free consultation scheduling, 13-week cash flow samples, and additional resources for business owners planning their exit strategy. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Are you playing checkers with your finances while the wealthy are playing chess?In this episode of Grow Your Business & Grow Your Wealth, host Gary Heldt dives into a wealth-building conversation with Freddie Rappina, founder of Opta Financial, Chartered Financial Consultant, Accredited Investment Fiduciary™, and Retirement Income Planning Specialist.  With a rare background as both a retired Fairfax County police officer and seasoned wealth advisor, Freddie explains why traditional “just save and invest” advice keeps most people stuck in the middle class. He reveals how strategic debt, real estate, and business investments can transform your financial future, why taxes can be leveraged to your advantage, and how to shift your mindset from one of scarcity to one of abundance. This conversation challenges conventional wisdom and provides a blueprint for building wealth like the affluent. 5 Key Takeaways: Mindset Matters: The wealthy approach money like a chess game—strategically leveraging resources—while most people are taught to play checkers. Debt Can Be a Tool: When used to purchase income-producing assets, debt can enhance cash flow and reduce tax liabilities. Assets Over Hours: Wealth isn't built by working more; it's built by owning assets that work for you. The Tax Advantage: The tax code rewards those who invest in ways that benefit the economy, such as real estate and business ownership. Saving Alone Isn't Enough: Savings are essential, but they should be a stepping stone to investments that generate income and wealth. Quotes from Freddie:“Saving money by itself is not a good idea—it won't make you wealthy.”  “The middle class is being taught to play checkers while the wealthy are playing chess.” How to Reach Freddie:Visit OptaFinancial.com and click the top right corner to schedule a consultation. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Are you running your business like it will last forever—or planning for when it won't?In this episode of Grow Your Business & Grow Your Wealth, host Gary Heldt welcomes Tom Dillon, founder of Frak Finance and a trusted expert in fractional CFO services, business valuation, and M&A strategy. With a background in investment banking and operational finance, Tom helps business owners avoid costly exit mistakes and drive growth with clear, actionable financial insights.Whether you're scaling, buying, or preparing to sell, Tom shares powerful lessons about what drives real business value—and how most owners miss it.

What does it really take to scale your business? Host Gary Heldt sits down with Cliff Goins IV, co-founder of Scaleup—a startup launched within Amazon to help diverse-owned businesses grow into large enterprises. With deep experience in fintech, asset management, and private equity, Cliff brings an unfiltered, strategy-first perspective to business growth.In this episode, Gary and Cliff unpack what holds businesses back from scaling—and it's not just about capital. From delegation and systems to social capital and financial metrics, this is a masterclass in how to level up with purpose.Key Takeaways:➤ The leap from small to scalable often starts with learning how to delegate and trust others—even when they do things differently than you would.➤ Many business owners get stuck doing tasks they can do, instead of focusing on what only they can do. Letting go is hard—but it's the unlock to growth.➤ Access to capital isn't the only barrier. Knowing what kind of capital you need—and when—is just as important.➤ Social capital can be more powerful than financial capital. The right introductions, advocates, and networks can change everything.➤ Business owners don't need to be CPAs to master their numbers. But they do need to understand their gross margin, cash flow, and forward-looking metrics.Favorite Quotes:“It's not exactly how you'd do it—but it's done. And you didn't have to do it.” “Scale is not just about size. It's about structure, strategy, and sustainability.”Resources:

Still following outdated investing advice?This week, Gary is joined by Lane Kawaoka, author of The Wealth Elevator, real estate syndication leader, and founder of SimplePassiveCashflow.com. With over 10,000 units under management, Lane shares how he went from civil engineer to full-time passive income expert—revealing why single-family rentals won't scale, the importance of knowing your “floor” in the wealth journey, and how professionals can create cash flow without becoming landlords. This episode is your wake-up call to start investing smarter—not harder.

What if your biggest business blocker isn't your bookkeeping—but your beliefs? This week, host Gary Heldt welcomes Audrey Faust, expert CFO, neuro coach, and author of the upcoming book She Grows Rich. Audrey empowers women entrepreneurs to build thriving businesses by combining strategic financial guidance with transformative mindset coaching. In this candid conversation, she shares how early money beliefs can sabotage success, why you should ditch the word “budget,” and what it really takes to grow from six to seven figures with clarity—not chaos. ➡️ 5 Key Takeaways: → Mindset First, Metrics Second: Audrey starts every client journey by clearing subconscious prosperity blockers—like the belief that rich people are greedy—that limit earning potential. → Blueprint Over Budget: Instead of restrictive budgets, Audrey co-creates a one-page financial blueprint that aligns with each business owner's goals and personal definition of success. → Know Your Numbers: Successful entrepreneurs review financial statements monthly. Audrey teaches clients to read their profit & loss, balance sheet, and cash flow like a pro. → You Are Not Your Business: Audrey encourages shifting from "my business" to "the business" to create team inclusion and a CEO mindset that supports scaling. → Right People, Right Roles: A small change in team structure led one client to nearly double her revenue—from $1M to $2M—by freeing the CEO's time to focus on growth.

What if the same strategic thinking that shapes world history could transform how you handle your business disputes and protect your company's reputation? Jonathan Sherman, Partner and Vice Chair of Strategic Litigation at Sterlington Law, shares his journey from studying Cold War diplomatic history to becoming a nationally recognized commercial litigator. With over 30 years of experience, including work on the O.J. Simpson case and high-profile disputes involving Sony and Herbalife, Jonathan reveals how historical analysis has shaped his strategic approach to law and business. Key Takeaways ➤ Historical perspective enhances legal strategy. Major decisions are often practical rather than ideological, providing valuable insight for business litigation. ➤ Lawyers must function as strategic advisors. The best representation involves understanding your client's business context and helping navigate uncertainty. ➤ High-profile cases build valuable skills. Experience with media attention and public pressure develops crucial abilities for high-stakes business disputes. ➤ Listening trumps talking. Sherman's biggest career advice is to "shut up more" - intentional listening creates better outcomes than trying to impress with knowledge.➤ Legal profession is evolving rapidly. Modern law firms are adapting to remote work and building practices around individual expertise rather than just institutional brands. Notable Quotes"What made me want to become a lawyer was I wanted to find out how the world gets to be about big, sweeping ideas, when what happens on Wall Street every day are the same kinds of supply and demand and resource allocation questions that happen on Main Street every day." "The only interesting thing is what I do and what businessmen do is my job is to kind of look behind you... I can't use what I learn about you, which is privileged and protected... My job is to steer you in a direction where at least you understand the costs that your anger or your obsession may take you." Connect with Jonathan ShermanLearn more about Jonathan Sherman and his strategic litigation expertise at www.sterlingtonlaw.com Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

What if you could use your retirement savings to invest in real estate, start a business, or buy cryptocurrency - all while keeping the tax advantages of your IRA or 401(k)? Tax attorney and entrepreneur Adam Bergman reveals the hidden power of self-directed retirement accounts that most Americans are unaware of. As the founder and CEO of IRA Financial Group, Adam shares how he discovered, by accident, that IRAs can invest in far more than just stocks and bonds—and how he built a $5 billion company helping business owners unlock these opportunities. From the ROBS strategy for funding businesses with retirement funds to the surprising tax advantages that even seasoned professionals may not be aware of, this episode reveals the retirement planning secrets that savvy individuals use to build substantial wealth. 5 Key Takeaways ➤ IRAs can invest in almost anything except three prohibited categories - collectibles like art, life insurance, and transactions that personally benefit you or your family members. ➤ Three ways to fund your business with retirement money: Own less than 50% of the business through a self-directed IRA, borrow up to $50,000 through a 401(k) loan, or use the ROBS (Rollover Business Startup Solution) strategy. ➤ The ROBS strategy enables tax-free, penalty-free access to retirement funds by setting up a C-corporation that adopts a 401(k) plan, which then purchases company stock—completely legal under Section 4970E of the tax code. ➤ Starting retirement savings at 24 vs 34 makes a massive difference - investing just $2,000 annually from age 24-72 at 8.5% returns yields $1.15 million vs. only $498,000 when starting at 34. ➤ Self-directed IRAs cost less than $500 annually to maintain, and the setup process takes just a few hours over a few weeks, giving you complete control over investment decisions. Notable Quotes"I had no idea that you can use an IRA to do alternative assets. I as a tax lawyer... worked at some of the biggest law firms in the world, and I honestly thought that you had to buy stocks and mutual funds, ETFs with your IRA." "The US retirement system is rigged in our favor... it's based off compounded returns, the eighth wonder of the world. Albert Einstein said it." How to Reach Adam BergmanIRA Financial Group Website: /https://www.irafinancial.com/lp/retirement-solutions/ YouTube Channel: IRA Financial (1000+ educational videos) Phone: Free consultations with 100+ tax professionals Resources: Extensive blogs and educational content on self-directed retirement accounts Adam has authored 9 books on retirement planning and continues to educate entrepreneurs on maximizing their retirement strategies through alternative investments. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Are you missing out on the investment opportunities that institutional investors have been using for decades to build wealth? In this episode, Gary sits down with Kim Flynn, President of XA Investments and CFA charter holder, to explore the world of alternative investments and how they're becoming accessible to individual investors and business owners. Kim shares her journey from investment banking to founding her own business and reveals how interval funds are democratizing access to private markets. Kim Flynn discusses her entrepreneurial journey in asset management and explains how alternative investments—everything that's not a stock or bond—can provide diversification, income, and inflation protection. She breaks down the revolutionary concept of interval funds, which offer SEC-registered access to private market investments with improved liquidity and tax reporting compared to traditional private funds. The conversation covers direct lending opportunities, the importance of working with knowledgeable financial advisors, and why small business owners are particularly well-positioned to benefit from these sophisticated investment strategies. Key Takeaways: ➤ Alternative investments include anything beyond stocks and bonds - from private equity and real estate to infrastructure and farmland, offering diversification benefits and potential inflation protection that traditional portfolios may lack. ➤ Interval funds are game-changers for individual investors - these SEC-registered products provide access to institutional-quality investments with quarterly liquidity windows, 1099 tax forms instead of K-1s, and lower suitability requirements. ➤ Direct lending presents compelling opportunities in 2025 - with banks pulling back from lending, direct lending funds are filling the gap and offering yields of 9-11% while providing alternative financing options for business owners. ➤ Small business owners have natural advantages in alternative investing - they understand diversification risks better than most investors and can benefit from longer investment horizons to access institutional-quality strategies previously unavailable to individual investors. ➤ The right financial advisor is crucial for alternative investment success - investors should ask advisors about private market exposure and alternative offerings, as not all advisors understand interval funds and their unique liquidity structures. Notable Quotes: "We've got to be thoughtful about what we bring to market. The world doesn't need another large cap ETF, so we focus on creating cutting-edge products in alternative investments." "This is what the American business owner needs - an opportunity to deploy capital in a more sophisticated way alongside institutional investors, but have it be convenient with easy buying and selling and a 1099 instead of a K-1." Connect with Kim Flynn: Website: https://xainvestments.com/ LinkedIn: Kimberly Flynn at XA Investments Resources: Educational content, white papers, and interval fund index information available on website Kim Flynn is the President of XA Investments, where she leads product and business development specializing in closed-end funds, interval funds, and alternative investments. As a CFA charter holder with deep expertise in private market investing, she's passionate about making institutional-quality investments accessible to a broader audience. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

❓What happens when you ignore the IRS—or worse—hire the wrong help?Spoiler alert: It doesn't magically disappear… but your bank account might.This week, Gary sits down with Candice Miller, a nationally recognized tax attorney, to break down the biggest missteps business owners make when dealing with the IRS. From penalties and passport revocations to payroll tax nightmares, Candice shares powerful insights on how to stay compliant, avoid costly mistakes, and why being proactive could literally save your business. She also opens up about her unexpected path into tax law, what gets her fired up to help clients, and why most of those "pennies-on-the-dollar" ads are too good to be true.

Thinking about owning a franchise—but not sure if it's the right move?  This episode breaks down what you really need to know before diving into the world of franchising.  Gary Heldt sits down with James Hilovsky, franchise consultant and CEO of FranDream, to discuss how aspiring business owners can confidently enter the franchise world. James shares his journey from restaurant executive to multi-concept founder and now mentor to franchise seekers. He outlines the real work behind franchise ownership, the common mistakes to avoid, and why choosing a brand with strong support matters more than hype.

What happens when you start your company after 14 jobs in 17 years? And how do you turn that into $40 billion raised?  In this episode of Grow Your Business & Grow Your Wealth, host Gary Heldt interviews Gui Costin, the energetic founder and CEO of Dakota. Gui opens up about the winding path that led him to success, the leadership missteps he corrected, and how he built a culture of mentorship, kindness, and high performance. You'll also hear his take on the future of investment sales, the impact of AI, and the importance of consistency in content creation—even for plumbers! → 5 Key Takeaways:→ Leadership is a behavior, not a title.→ Kindness and high performance can—and should—coexist.→ The right words from a leader can make or break employee retention.→ Embrace AI now or risk falling behind.→ Ask “Why?” seven times to unlock clarity and growth.

Are you still handing over your hard-earned money to Wall Street and hoping it works out?This week, Gary is joined by M.C. Laubscher, wealth strategist, entrepreneur, and founder of Producers Wealth. M.C. shares how business owners can take back control of their finances using proven wealth-building systems that banks have used for generations. They explore the critical difference between saving and speculating, how to build your own family banking system, and why most entrepreneurs are starved of capital when they need it most. M.C. also dives into his bestselling book Get Wealthy for Sure and how his Cashflow Ninja platform has reached over 7 million people worldwide.

From Debt to Seven Figures: How Jeanne Omlor Built a Thriving Online Business Without Ads How does a single parent go from deep debt to a seven-figure business in less than two years without spending on advertising? In this compelling episode, host Gary Heldt welcomes Jeanne Omlor, a Business Strategist, Seven-Figure Online Business Coach, and Certified Servant Leadership Executive Coach who shares her remarkable transformation. Jeanne Omlor shares her journey from struggling offline coach to successful online business owner. After eight years of working as a coach and facing mounting debt after a life change, Jeanne decided to pivot to online business. Despite initially investing in Facebook ads training, she discovered the power of organic marketing instead. By developing a system based on human relationships, she built a seven-figure business in just 17 months with approximately 92% profit margin. Five and a half years later, she maintains a sustainable business that has helped nearly 500 coaches, consultants, and service providers thrive through her organic marketing methods. Key Takeaways → Following up properly with leads is essential for business success. Most business owners fail to implement a systematic approach to follow-up, letting potential clients slip away. → Organic social media marketing on platforms like LinkedIn, Instagram, and Facebook presents enormous opportunities that many businesses aren't properly harnessing. → Fear of judgment and concern about professional image often prevents business owners from taking the necessary actions to grow their client base. → Business anxiety affects quality of life - when you're constantly worried about finances, you can't be fully present with loved ones even when physically with them. → Success brings freedom from financial anxiety, which significantly contributes to overall happiness and life satisfaction. Quotes from Jeanne "There's not a worse feeling in the world than not fulfilling your potential. You're doing all the things, you're doing everything to be a good parent... but it doesn't feel good because you're just worried." "Thriving wasn't really the order of the day with me. Because I'm emotionally connected to that, I don't want people to go through what I went through. I want it to happen for them." Connect with Jeanne Omlor Website: jeanneomlor.com LinkedIn: linkedin.com/in/jeanneomlor Facebook: facebook.com/jeanneomlor Podcast: Business Wealth Impact Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

What's the real legacy of your business—just profits, or a thriving family and future-ready wealth? In this powerful episode, Gary Heldt welcomes Lori Van Dusen, founder of LVW Advisors and a trailblazer in fiduciary financial planning. Lori shares her extraordinary path from working in the South Tower of the World Trade Center with Lehman Brothers to leading a $6 billion independent advisory practice. She reveals the challenges and triumphs of creating a business that aligns with her values, mentoring the next generation, and serving multigenerational families. Lori also discusses personal growth, the importance of proactive financial planning, and the moving story behind her Wall Street Journal bestselling book, Born from Resilience after Personal Loss.

Are you prepared to weather unexpected financial storms while building lasting wealth for retirement? In this enlightening episode, Gary Heldt sits down with Harry Abrahamsen, a leading financial strategist specializing in personal financial economics and retirement planning. Harry shares his journey from building a family business to founding the Abrahamsen Financial Group, inspired by the life-changing events of September 11, 2001. Drawing from his extensive experience working with clients at all stages of retirement planning, Harry reveals his philosophy on creating personalized financial strategies that protect against unexpected life events while building sustainable wealth. Key Takeaways: → Financial planning must be personalized to each individual's unique situation, whether they're thinking about retirement, preparing to retire, or already retired → Unexpected life events can derail financial plans - proper protection strategies are essential for controlling your financial destiny → Building a network of trusted experts (attorneys, CPAs, bankers) creates comprehensive financial plans that consistently over-deliver for clients → Entrepreneurial thinking and continuous reinvention are vital components of financial success and career growth → Financial strategies should focus on both wealth building and wealth protection to ensure long-term security Notable Quotes: "After September 11, 2001, I realized the critical importance of properly protecting oneself from unexpected life events and controlling one's own destiny." - Harry Abrahamsen "Throughout my career, my clientele has consistently shared one common objective: to receive expert advice and guidance from someone they trust." - Harry Abrahamsen Connect with Harry Abrahamsen: Book: "Money Rules - 9 Rules to Massive Wealth" Company: Abrahamsen Financial Group Location: Little Silver, New Jersey Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

How Do Operating Environments Impact Business Risk and Investment Decisions? In this insightful episode of Grow Your Business & Grow Your Wealth, host Gary Heldt speaks with Ryan Zabrowski, Director of Investment Committee at Krilogy. Ryan shares valuable wisdom from his decades of financial experience, as outlined in his book "Time Ahead: The Investor's Guide to Prosperity and Impact," and explains why understanding operating environments is crucial for achieving business success. Key Takeaways: → The risk of starting a business varies dramatically based on timing and operating environment, just as walking down stairs is different when they're covered in ice versus when they're dry → Business owners often overestimate future cash flows due to natural optimism - creating realistic scenario analyses with probability assessments is critical for long-term success → Understanding accounting is fundamental for business owners - it's the language of business that allows effective communication with bankers, investors, and financial partners → Young professionals must take responsibility for their growth and be committed to putting in extraordinary effort - successful careers require sacrifice and dedication → Having the right financial team in place (financial advisor, tax preparer, and estate planning attorney) who communicate effectively with each other can dramatically impact long-term wealth preservation Quote from Ryan: "I think we're a bit in the hand-holding culture. What we need to explain to young professionals is they have to take responsibility, or the majority of the responsibility, for their professional growth. Those goals associated with large amounts of income are very hard to achieve, and they take sacrifice, commitment, and hard work." How to Reach Ryan: Book: Time Ahead: The Investor's Guide to Prosperity and Impact (available on Amazon) Company: Krilogy Follow on social media by searching for "Ryan Zabrowski" or "Equity Tree" Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

How do you create a financial plan that withstands market volatility and economic fears? Gary Heldt speaks with Melissa Bouchillon, Managing Partner at Sound View Wealth Advisors in this episode. With 21 years in wealth management and a background in psychology and education, Melissa shares insights on creating cohesive financial plans that connect all aspects of wealth management. She emphasizes the importance of having trusted professionals who communicate with each other to ensure your financial goals stay on track despite market fluctuations and economic uncertainty. Key Takeaways ➡️ Create a cohesive plan connecting all financial components ➡️ Build a "bomb shelter" with 3-5 years of accessible funds ➡️ Focus on controllable factors: spending, saving, debt management ➡️ Work with professionals who speak clearly, not in jargon ➡️ Have a cohesive team of advisors who communicate with each other Notable Quotes "After somebody's health, their family, their faith, their finances really allow them to do the things they want to do and help the people they want to help." "What would you do if you knew you couldn't fail?" How to Reach Melissa Phone: 912-844-7563 Email: Melissa@svadvice.com Location: Sound View Wealth Advisors, Skidaway Island, Savannah, Georgia Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Are you protecting your business and your people, or are you one complaint away from chaos?

How Can Marketing Automation and AI Transform Your Small Business? In this episode of Grow Your Business & Grow Your Wealth, Gary Heldt interviews Chris Troka, founder of Focused-Biz, a marketing and automation agency helping small businesses access the same powerful tools and resources as large corporations. Chris Troka shares his entrepreneurial journey from running an award-winning wedding DJ business to pivoting during COVID-19 to launch Focused-Biz, a marketing and automation agency. With a background in marketing and a passion for helping small businesses compete with larger corporations, Chris explains how he's leveraging AI and marketing automation to level the playing field for entrepreneurs and solopreneurs. 5 Key Takeaways → Marketing expertise is often what business owners lack most - they may excel at their craft but struggle with marketing and sales fundamentals. → When optimizing websites, focus on customer experience rather than keyword stuffing - reducing friction in the buyer's journey is essential. → AI tools can dramatically improve content creation, personalization, and customer service efficiency without requiring deep technical knowledge. → B2B (business-to-business) sales cycles typically take 8-15 months, while B2C (business-to-consumer) decisions happen within 3-4 weeks - requiring different marketing approaches. → Business owners don't need to understand everything about new technologies - partner with experts who can guide implementation while you focus on your core business. Quotes from Chris "I see AI as another great tool. The more training that we put into it, the better it will be... With that shift and disruption in the labor market, that just becomes a new opportunity for people to learn a new skill." How to Connect with Chris LinkedIn: Christopher Troka Website: focused-biz.com and christroka.com Podcast: "Brain Work Framework" - available on all podcast platforms Facebook Group: Join Chris's Facebook Community for entrepreneurs interested in sales, marketing, automation, and AI Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Could Your Business Benefit From Crowdfunding Beyond Kickstarter? In this episode of "Grow Your Business & Grow Your Wealth," Gary Heldt interviews Paul Jossey, principal attorney at Jossey, PLLC, who specializes in investment crowdfunding. Unlike traditional crowdfunding platforms like Kickstarter or GoFundMe, Paul focuses on securities crowdfunding (Regulation CF), which allows businesses to raise capital by offering investors actual securities - whether equity, debt, or revenue share opportunities. This revolutionary funding avenue, which went live in 2016, enables businesses to turn their customers into investors and create a movement around their brand. Key Takeaways → Securities crowdfunding differs from platforms like Kickstarter in that it offers investors actual securities (equity, debt, or revenue shares) regulated by the SEC, creating investor-customers who are financially invested in your success. → The crowdfunding campaign approach turns your company into a "movement" with loyal customers who become investors and ambassadors for your brand, compelling for B2C businesses. → Anyone can invest in crowdfunding opportunities (not just accredited investors), with statutory limits based on income protecting smaller investors while allowing broader participation. → A successful crowdfunding raise requires the business owner to be the primary salesperson, actively engaging their existing network first before expanding outward - the campaign won't succeed by simply posting online. → The timeline from preparation to launch typically takes 30-45 days (working with financial and legal professionals), with campaigns ideally running for no more than 3 months to maintain momentum. Notable Quotes "You turn your company into a movement. You get people that are not just a loan officer, but a bunch of people who want to see you do well." - Paul Jossey "This is a campaign. It is not easy, and you can't just throw something on the internet and people will come. I don't care if you are the next Steve Jobs, it does not matter." - Paul Jossey How to Reach Paul Jossey Website: The Crowdfunding Lawyers LinkedIn: Paul Jossey | LinkedIn Free Consultation: Schedule a free 30-minute consultation through his website Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Are you overwhelmed by tax debt and unsure where to turn? Stephen A. Weisberg, a dedicated tax attorney, joins the podcast to share expert strategies for resolving tax debt, avoiding IRS pitfalls, and confidently navigating audits. In this episode, Gary Heldt speaks with tax resolution attorney Stephen A. Weisberg, founder of The W Tax Group. With over a decade of experience in IRS tax debt resolution, Stephen provides invaluable insight into the myths surrounding tax settlements, the realities of dealing with the IRS, and how business owners and individuals can take control of their tax situations. 5 Key Takeaways ➡ Not everyone qualifies for an Offer in Compromise – It's a selective process requiring a detailed financial assessment.  ➡ IRS installment agreements can reduce your liability – Understanding options like partial pay agreements is crucial.  ➡ Filing taxes, even if you can't pay, is essential – Avoiding failure-to-file penalties can save thousands.  ➡ The IRS has a 10-year statute of limitations – Knowing when the clock starts is critical for long-term tax planning.  ➡ Work with a specialist, not just a tax preparer – Expertise in IRS collections, audits, and negotiations makes a huge difference. Navigating tax debt can be daunting, but with the proper guidance, it's manageable.  Contact Stephen Weisberg for expert assistance if you're dealing with IRS issues.

What inspired a former Cincinnati Bengals employee to become an independent wealth manager and how did he build a successful practice focused on helping business owners? Peter Hiltz shares his journey from corporate finance to independent wealth management, highlighting how his early exposure to finance through his father's stock market interests shaped his career path. He discusses the challenges and rewards of transitioning to business ownership, the importance of building strong professional networks, and his client-first approach to wealth management. Key Takeaways → Time management is crucial for business owners - they need to build the right team of advisors to support growth → Successful business transitions require openness to change and willingness to adapt traditional practices → Building a coordinated team of professionals (CPA, attorney, insurance agent) is essential for comprehensive planning → The transition from employee to business owner requires wearing multiple hats and constant learning → Authentic relationships and professional networking from an early age are fundamental to long-term success How to Reach Peter LinkedIn: Peter Hiltz Email: philtz@kingsview.com Phone: 513-401-8513 Website: kingsview.com Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Are you a high-income earner, high-net-worth individual, or successful business owner looking to reduce your tax burden, protect your assets, and build a lasting legacy? In this episode, Terry DuPont, founder of DuPont Advisory Group, discusses the concept of a virtual family office and how it can benefit Main Street clients. He shares common financial mistakes, emphasizes the importance of tax reduction strategies, and explains how his firm's unique approach helps clients achieve financial success and significance. 5 Key Takeaways: 1. The benefits of a virtual family office for comprehensive financial planning. 2. Common mistakes high-net-worth individuals and business owners make. 3. The importance of tax reduction strategies in retirement planning. 4. How DuPont Advisory Group's unique process prioritizes client relationships and understanding. 5. Strategies for wealth preservation, asset protection, and legacy planning.  Terry encourages listeners to reach out and explore how a virtual family office can help them achieve their financial goals and build a lasting legacy. Quote from Terry:   Estate Planning and legacy planning are not all about money. It's about your values, family values, business values, etc., that you also want to pass on.  How to reach the guest: Website: https://dupontadvisoryvfo.com/ Tel: (800) 234-4452 Podcast: Better Business, Better Life: Building on Your Success (available on Apple Podcasts and YouTube) Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Are You Ready to Transform Your Business with Tech-Enabled Accounting Solutions? In this episode of Grow Your Business & Grow Your Wealth, guest host Eli Mizrahi speaks with Lucas Matson, founder of LDC Financial and former Deloitte Tax professional. Lucas shares his journey from corporate accounting to entrepreneurship, offering valuable insights into modern accounting practices, the cannabis industry, and how technology reshapes financial services. Drawing from his extensive experience with major tech companies and M&A transactions, Lucas provides a unique perspective on building a location-independent practice while maintaining high professional standards. Key Takeaways: → The accounting industry is evolving toward tech-enabled solutions, with automated tools reducing the need for large departments while maintaining accuracy and compliance. → Starting at a big accounting firm provides invaluable experience and expertise that can be leveraged to serve diverse clients effectively as an independent practitioner. → Cannabis industry accounting presents unique challenges due to complex regulations and tax codes (like 280E), requiring specialized knowledge and careful structuring of financial statements. → Digital nomad entrepreneurship is possible in accounting, but proper system and technology setup is required to maintain efficient operations while working remotely. → Small businesses should prioritize proper accounting setup from the start. Investing in professional CPA services early can prevent costly mistakes and provide better financial insights. Notable Quotes from Lucas: "Don't let the tax tail wag the dog. You have to do what's best for your business. You shouldn't have less active control." "If you're trying to start a business and you're serious about it, make sure you're properly capitalized, and bring in a CPA to be your partner because a CPA will be invaluable to you." Connect with Lucas Matson: Website: https://www.ldc.financial/ Email: lucas@LDC.financial Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Are you struggling to talk about money, even with your financial advisor?   In this episode, Nick Garofalo, founder and chief compliance officer of Openhanded Wealth LLC, discusses the importance of open communication in financial planning, common financial mistakes, and how to empower clients to make informed decisions. He emphasizes a faith-based approach, integrating Biblical wisdom into financial planning to help clients align their life goals and vision with their faith.   5 Key Takeaways: The importance of open communication in financial planning. Common financial mistakes people make. How to empower clients to make informed financial decisions. The power of small steps in financial planning. Integrating Biblical wisdom into financial planning. Nick encourages listeners to schedule a discovery call with a fee-only financial advisor to discuss their financial goals and concerns.   Quote: "I believe everything we have is a gift from God, entrusted to us to manage wisely—not just our money, but our time, attention, relationships, and all our resources." - Nick How to reach the guest: Website: openhandedwealth.com   Podcast: https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/one-degree/id1728707319 LinkedIn: (25) Nick Garofalo | LinkedIn Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Ever wondered how to build a successful business empire? In this episode of Grow Your Business & Grow Your Wealth, Gary Heldt speaks with John Hewitt, a serial entrepreneur and franchising expert who has founded two of the top 100 retail brands in the country, including Jackson Hewitt and Liberty Tax. John shares his journey from building his first tax software for an Apple computer in 1981 to creating Loyalty Brands, a company with eight franchises in various industries. He discusses the common mistakes people make when getting into a franchise and the importance of following the system. John also talks about the importance of culture, attitude, and perseverance in achieving success as a franchisee.   Key Takeaways: → John Hewitt, founder of Jackson Hewitt and Liberty Tax, shares his journey and insights on building successful franchises. → John emphasizes the importance of following the franchise system, stating that those who deviate often face challenges. → He highlights the significance of culture, attitude, and drive in achieving success as a franchisee. → John discusses the importance of perseverance and hard work in overcoming obstacles and achieving long-term success. → He shares his mission of having fun, improving lives, and creating opportunities for others through franchising. Quotes from guest: “My job as a franchisor is to give you the best system in the industry, and I've been doing that for 55 years, so that's what my expertise is.”   “The journey is the joy, the the payment at the treasure at the end of the rainbow is anti climatic.”   Visit website: https://loyaltybrands.com/ Relevant hashtags: #franchising #entrepreneurship #businesssuccess #loyaltybrands #podcastinterview Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

In this episode of Grow Your Business & Grow Your Wealth, Gary Heldt speaks with Eli Mizrahi, President of Pacific Group Advisors and a seasoned fiduciary with over 40 years of experience in financial planning. Eli shares his personal journey into the world of finance, inspired by his parents' retirement challenges, and the lessons he's learned helping families navigate complex financial decisions. He provides valuable insights on retirement planning, investment strategies, wealth preservation, and long-term care solutions.   Key Takeaways: → The importance of starting financial planning early, regardless of age or income.  → Common mistakes people make in retirement planning include not having a plan, not considering long-term care, and not preparing for contingencies like taxes and market downturns.  → Strategies for retirement planning include maximizing tax-advantaged accounts like 401(k)s and IRAs, considering insurance options with living benefits, and diversifying investments to protect against market volatility.  → Long-term care planning is crucial, with 7 out of 10 people likely needing some form of care in their lifetime. Options like specially structured universal life insurance can provide living benefits for care needs.  → Social Security planning is essential, including understanding when to start collecting benefits to maximize your income.   Quotes from Eli → "Retirement is when you have more income than expenses, if you can get there young, great." → "Most people spend more time planning a two-week vacation than they spend on preparing for a 20-30 year retirement."   More from Eli Mizrahi: Eli Mizrahi, President of Pacific Group Advisors, is a seasoned fiduciary with over four decades of experience in financial and estate planning. Inspired by personal experiences with his parents' retirement challenges, Eli is dedicated to helping families make informed financial decisions. His expertise spans retirement and income planning, investment strategies, wealth preservation, and long-term care solutions.  Connect with Eli: (27) Eli Mizrahi | LinkedIn Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Ever wondered why some financial advisors insist everyone needs a trust, even if you're not wealthy? In this episode of Grow Your Business & Grow Your Wealth, Gary Heldt speaks with Katherine Sheehan, Managing Director and Wealth Strategist at Crestwood Advisors LLC. With nearly 30 years of experience in estate planning, Katie shares her expertise on why everyone needs an estate plan, regardless of their wealth level, and breaks down common misconceptions about trusts and estate planning. Key Takeaways: → Estate planning is not just for the wealthy - everyone needs essential planning documents, including a will, revocable trust, power of attorney, and healthcare documents. → Revocable trusts offer multiple benefits, including probate avoidance, protection for minor children, and flexibility in asset management while maintaining complete control. → Don't let cost concerns prevent proper estate planning - while fees vary by location and complexity, the cost of improper or no planning can be much higher for families. → Healthcare documents (healthcare proxy, HIPAA authorization, living will) and power of attorney are essential for life planning, not just end-of-life planning. → Long-term care planning may involve special trusts and strategies like Medicaid trusts or life estate deeds, which require careful consideration of five-year lookback periods. Quotes from Katie: "Everyone needs estate planning, whether you have $2 or $200 million. Let's just talk about what you need and why you need it." "Life is uncertain. We want to protect our beneficiaries from themselves, from their creditors, from their potential spouses..." More from Katherine Sheehan: Katherine Sheehan is the Managing Director and Wealth Strategist at Crestwood Advisors LLC. With almost three decades of experience in estate planning, she helps families develop comprehensive estate plans that protect their assets and loved ones. Contact: ksheehan@crestwoodadvisors.com Website: https://www.crestwoodadvisors.com/ Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

In this episode of Grow Your Business & Grow Your Wealth, Gary Heldt speaks with Kevin Quinn, Founder and President of Legacy Counsellors, P.C., an estate and business planning law firm. Kevin discusses the importance of estate planning and generational wealth, explaining his unique "My Family, My Wealth" process, which helps families understand and plan for their wealth.   Key Takeaways: → Estate planning is not just about taxes but also about the impact of wealth on a family. → The "My Family, My Wealth" process helps families understand their wealth and its role in their lives.  → Open communication about wealth and family values is crucial for successful estate planning.  → Family meetings are essential for discussing and planning wealth transfer.  → It's never too early to start planning for the future of your family's wealth.   Quote from Kevin:  "What we hope our inheritance does is create a little bit of a fallback, a little bit of a safety net."   "The half a million dollar dollars that that I leave to my daughters is just as important as the half a billion dollars that someone else leaves to their daughters."   More from Kevin Quinn: Founder and President of Legacy Counsellors, P.C.  Creator of the "My Family, My Wealth" process   Website: https://legacycounsellors.com/ Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Are you maximizing efficiency and user adoption in your IT projects? In this episode of Grow Your Business & Grow Your Wealth, Gary Heldt speaks with David Luria, author of "The Failure of I.T. Project Management: Why It's Broken and How to Fix It With 11 Ironclad Requirements You Have Never Heard Of." David shares his expertise on how to avoid costly IT project failures and ensure successful implementation.    Key Takeaways: → The biggest mistake in IT projects is misalignment between business and IT objectives.   → Define "adoption requirements" to ensure transparency and successful user onboarding.   → Focus on "ready, willing, and able" users who understand the why, impact, and training needed for the new system.   → AI tools like ChatGPT can help businesses with content generation, strategic thinking, and even automating tasks.   → Re-skilling and prompt engineering are crucial to stay relevant in the evolving job market.   More from David Luria: David's groundbreaking book, The Failure of I.T. Project Management: Why It's Broken and How to Fix It With 11 Ironclad Requirements You Have Never Heard Of, offers a people-centric approach to IT project planning. His work focuses on solving the challenges that often derail enterprise software rollouts, such as low user adoption and inefficient onboarding processes. In addition to his role as a tech executive, David is a sought-after speaker and consultant, sharing his insights on how companies can transform their IT operations with practical, user-focused solutions. Connect with David on LinkedIn Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Are you paying too much for healthcare? This episode will change how you think about employee benefits! Summary: In this episode of Grow Your Business & Grow Your Wealth, host Gary Heldt speaks with Louis Bernardi, founder of Bright Path Benefits and known as The Benefits Whisperer. Louis shares his decades of experience in the healthcare benefits industry, helping business owners navigate high costs, complex regulations, and alternative healthcare solutions. From debunking myths about the Affordable Care Act to highlighting strategies like direct primary care, self-insurance, and telemedicine, Louis explains how business owners can provide top-tier benefits without breaking the bank. He also discusses his initiative, Benefit Champions Network, which empowers HR leaders and business owners with knowledge to make smarter decisions. Key Takeaways: → The hidden costs of traditional healthcare plans and how insurers profit. → Alternative healthcare models that provide quality care at a lower cost. → The power of direct primary care, telemedicine, and minimum essential coverage. → Why self-insurance might be a game-changer for some businesses. → How businesses can reduce healthcare costs by 20-25% while improving benefits. Louis C. Bernardi, CHFC®, CHVA, is the Founder of BritePath and "The Benefits Whisperer." He helps businesses cut healthcare costs by 20-30% while improving employee benefits. As a Certified Health Value Advisor and Healthcare Fiduciary Coach, he creates cost-effective, compliant health plans with CFOs and HR leaders. Through his podcast, LinkedIn newsletter, and Benefit Champions Network, Louis educates employers on navigating the healthcare system to enhance financial and human capital outcomes. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Want to learn how to turn debt into wealth and achieve financial freedom? Discover alternative financial solutions and tax-efficient strategies with CFP, Mark Willis.   In this episode of Grow Your Business & Grow Your Wealth, Gary Heldt sits down with Mark Willis, CFP and owner of Lake Growth Financial Services. Mark shares his incredible journey from struggling with student loan debt to becoming a financial expert who helps clients find more predictable and secure ways to reach their financial goals.   Key Takeaways: Mark's personal experience with overcoming six-figure student loan debt and discovering a path to financial freedom.   The importance of having a financial plan and seeking guidance from a qualified professional.   Understanding alternative financial solutions and tax-efficient strategies that can help you achieve your goals faster.   How to regain control of your financial future and make informed decisions about your money.   The role of mindset and discipline in achieving financial success.   Quote from Mark Willis: "You are perfectly designed to achieve the results you're currently achieving.   Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Are you a professional or small business owner feeling overwhelmed by your finances? In this episode of Grow Your Business & Grow Your Wealth, Gary Heldt speaks with Alvin Carlos, CFP®, CFA, Managing Partner of District Capital, a fee-only financial planning firm. They discuss the importance of a holistic approach to financial planning, focusing on tax efficiency, retirement planning, and debt management. Key Takeaways: → Financial planning is not just about investments; it's about aligning your money with your values and goals.  → Tax planning is crucial for maximizing wealth and should be integrated with your overall financial plan.  → Retirement planning requires a long-term perspective and a disciplined approach to saving and investing.  → Managing debt effectively is essential for financial freedom, and there are strategies to minimize its impact.  → Working with a fee-only fiduciary advisor ensures you receive unbiased advice in your best interest. More from Alvin Carlos: Alvin Carlos, CFP®, CFA, is the Managing Partner of District Capital, a fee-only financial planning firm based in Washington, D.C. His firm specializes in helping professionals and small business owners maximize their money through comprehensive financial planning and investment management. With a focus on reducing taxes, retirement planning, and debt management, Alvin's team provides clear, actionable advice. As a fiduciary, Alvin's approach is entirely client-focused, offering unbiased financial guidance without commissions. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices