Tax Pro Nation | The Podcast For Independent Tax Professionals

In this introductory episode of Tax Pro Nation, the 9 steps of "The Pronto Path" are discussed. The Pronto Path is a career roadmap or framework to remove fear and doubt from the tax profession. If you're wondering how to get from where you are right now to where you want to be as an independent tax professional, this path, this episode, and this show are for you! To learn more, and for the complete show notes, visit: http://taxpronation.com/00   Resources mentioned: [16:20] Basic Income Tax Course link (https://courses.prontotaxschool.com) [20:11] USP formula: I solve (problem) for (group of people) so that they can achieve (positive result). [32:45] Book reference: The E-Myth by Michael Gerber   Tax Pro Nation is sponsored by Pronto Tax School, Inc. Sponsored links include: The Pronto Path infographic - http://taxpronation.com/path Basic Income Tax (Federal) course link - http://taxpronation.com/basic Business Tax Verified online course link - http://taxpronation.com/business   To sponsor an episode, please email hello@taxpronation.com Tax Pro Nation is produced by Podcast Masters

Every journey begins with the first step, and in episode 1 of Tax Pro Nation, we take the Initiation step in the 9 steps of The Pronto Path. The Pronto Path is a career roadmap or framework to remove fear and doubt from the tax profession. If you're wondering how to get from where you are right now to where you want to be as an independent tax professional, this show is for you!   Step 1 is all about getting educated, registered, and deciding which direction you will head in the business. To learn more, and for the complete show notes, visit: http://taxpronation.com/1   Resources mentioned: [28:04] The one federal number I need to get as a tax professional [33:15] Visit irs.gov for how to become an e-file provider [33:26] Download the free booklet "How to Start Your Own Tax Preparation and Consulting Business" [34:08] Visit https://www.sba.gov/ [34:15] Visit https://www.score.org/ [50:49] Volunteer Income Tax Assistance (VITA) or Tax Counseling for the Elderly (TCE) Programs [54:39] "75% of CPAs will retire in the next 15 years"   Tax Pro Nation is sponsored by Pronto Tax School, Inc. Sponsored links include: The Pronto Path infographic (free) Basic Income Tax (Federal) course link Business Tax Verified online course link   To sponsor an episode, please email hello@taxpronation.com   Tax Pro Nation is produced by Podcast Masters

The second step on The Pronto Path is Activation. In this episode, we walk you through building, testing, and validating your Unique Selling Proposition (USP). This is a critical step many skip past but it is foundational to your success. In this series, we are walking through the 9 steps of The Pronto Path. The Pronto Path is a career roadmap or framework to remove fear and doubt from the tax profession. If you're wondering how to get from where you are right now to where you want to be as an independent tax professional, this show is for you! To learn more, and for the complete show notes, visit: http://taxpronation.com/2   Quotables: [23:07] "The less unique you are, the more you have to market." —Jeff Dolan [27:22] "If you do everybody's taxes, you do nobody's taxes." —Jeff Dolan   Resources mentioned: [42:29] An example of successful tax pros who understand USP and branding (Rod and Ryan with Gotta Do My Taxes in LA) [47:13] Why referrals and the Net Promoter Score (NPS) are still the gold standard and how it is much easier today   Tax Pro Nation is sponsored by Pronto Tax School, Inc. Sponsored links include: The Pronto Path infographic (free) Basic Income Tax (Federal) course link Business Tax Verified online course link To sponsor an episode, please email hello@taxpronation.com   Tax Pro Nation is produced by Podcast Masters

The third step on The Pronto Path is Traction. In this episode, we walk through completing your first 50 tax returns for real clients. This step is exciting and where you see your efforts to activate your business start to work in the market. In this series, we are walking through the 9 steps of The Pronto Path. The Pronto Path is a career roadmap or framework to remove fear and doubt from the tax profession. If you're wondering how to get from where you are right now to where you want to be as an independent tax professional, this show is for you!   To learn more, and for the complete show notes, visit: http://taxpronation.com/3   Topics discussed: [02:45] What does traction mean? [03:22] Why does traction use 50 clients as a milestone? [04:40] Why Andy teaches the 5 Step Tax Prep Process [06:32] Is 50 clients in first tax season high or low? Easy or overwhelming? [08:36] The benefits of celebrating your first 50 clients [10:15] What is a realistic expectation to set in first year around close rate percentage on new prospects? [12:18] How do I get my first few clients? The Free vs Paid debate [14:28] The quickest way to sales [16:06] A great script to use for folks who want to do their own taxes [17:00] Two tips for a successful mindset in sales conversations [18:36] When doing free taxes can make sense [20:35] How using a bank product could be a great way to close sales [21:22] Andy turns the tables on Jeff and gets personal [24:14] Two key universal motivators for clients [26:00] Tax Education Hotline 310-422-1283 [26:25] How to determine your pricing [26:57] How to NOT talk to clients about your pricing [27:12] A great script to use with clients around your pricing [28:50] How personality types play into how you do business [31:29] What is a unicorn personality in the tax business? [32:27] "You can change your personality numerous times in your life to get where you want to go." —Andy Frye [34:32] Should I pay attention to the competition in my city when getting started? [36:08] Taxes for truckers example [37:25] Key points to remember in getting clients to refer you [38:05] Should I go to my family and friends? [41:47] The balance between experience vs confidence (Starting With Day Job example) [44:26] Andy's hilarious story about his first tax return [46:45] Why we started this podcast and why being a lone wolf is tough in this business [47:30] How you can simulate a larger office with support as a lone wolf or small business [48:10] A nice script to use when clients test your tax knowledge on the spot [49:48] 3 techniques to sign to your first 50 clients [55:20] Should my personal Facebook account be used for business? [58:18] One thing to remember in your tax business marketing [61:18] Is your service medicine (a pill) or a vitamin?   Tax Pro Nation is sponsored by Pronto Tax School, Inc. Sponsored links include: The Pronto Path infographic (free) Basic Income Tax (Federal) course link Business Tax Verified online course link To sponsor an episode, please email hello@taxpronation.com   Tax Pro Nation is produced by Podcast Masters

The fourth step on The Pronto Path is Elevation. In this episode, we walk through raising our prices and finding a highly profitable niche. We talk about leadership, confidence, and ownership of our business to success at this step. And how to avoid getting stuck for years as many do on this step. In this series, we are walking through the 9 steps of The Pronto Path. The Pronto Path is a career roadmap or framework to remove fear and doubt from the tax profession. If you're wondering how to get from where you are right now to where you want to be as an independent tax professional, this show is for you! To learn more, comment, and for the complete show notes, visit: http://taxpronation.com/4   Topics discussed: [02:39] What does the elevation step mean? [03:26] The importance of celebrating victories [04:18] Where we get stuck: Mindset and Math [04:48] Some examples of the math [05:26] Raising prices is scary! [06:34] “What got you here won’t get you there.” —Marshall Goldsmith [06:59] Whose desire is stronger to grow their business? [07:22] How you can raise your prices with integrity [08:50] A helpful script for talking to clients about raising your prices [09:38] What to do if you simply cannot see yourself having this conversation [09:58] A tip that employees use that entrepreneurs can leverage [11:43] A situation where many clients will leave if you raise your price [12:56] Why you cannot raise your business without raising your prices [13:36] Andy’s success story of raising prices over a couple year period [14:42] Do you stand behind your work? How to think about your value [15:34] Why having hundreds of clients but facing going out of business happens a lot [16:12] How the Wright Brothers can shed light on this elevation step [17:12] Two main ways to get your tax career to the next level [17:28] Three types of clients in the tax prep business [18:53] Highly profitable doesn’t necessarily mean a high price [20:12] How to approach finding the type of clients that are highly profitable [23:30] What working with passion looks like when you find your ideal clients [24:17] The key question to ask to elevate your business [25:15] Why leadership plays a large part in the elevation step [27:00] A key question clients will ask themselves to determine your immediate value [28:29] One of Andy’s very unique niches [30:09] Something to look forward to from clients when they see you raise your prices [30:48] What are some highly profitable niches? Examples [32:06] A few examples of very poor niches [35:23] A story from Jeff trying to find a niche tax preparer for stock trading #washsales [35:57] Why measuring a niche by Fear and Greed can be helpful [37:43] One way to find your highly profitable niche [40:09] “We have to take responsibility for our own success.” —Andy Frye [40:50] Help! I’ve been stuck for years at this step! How to get unstuck [43:31] Who are you surrounding yourself with? Tax Pro Nation is sponsored by Pronto Tax School, Inc. Sponsored links include: The Pronto Path infographic (free) Basic Income Tax (Federal) course link Business Tax Verified online course link To sponsor an episode, please email hello@taxpronation.com   Tax Pro Nation is produced by Podcast Masters  

The fifth step on The Pronto Path is Acceleration. In this episode, we walk through earning a profit that makes a meaningful positive impact for your personal freedom and lifestyle. This step sees people either succeeding or watching the wheels start to come off. In this series, we are walking through the 9 steps of The Pronto Path. The Pronto Path is a career roadmap or framework to remove fear and doubt from the tax profession. If you're wondering how to get from where you are right now to where you want to be as an independent tax professional, this show is for you! To learn more, comment, and for the complete show notes, visit: http://taxpronation.com/5   Resources mentioned: StrengthsFinder.com TheDiSCPersonalityTest.com MyersBriggs.org Kolbe.com   Quotables: [26:04] “By taking care of your employees and understanding them the most, you’re automatically taking care of your clients.” —Jeff Dolan   Topics discussed: [02:13] How the acceleration step is like playing sports at a professional level [04:30] What are the characteristics of this step? [05:27] The hallmark of the acceleration step [06:27] The one thing to remind yourself everyday at this step [07:25] Money vs. Happiness [08:38] Andy’s own financial goal at the acceleration step [10:09] What does more money mean for you? [11:23] Why this step applies to employees 100% [12:55] The most important thing for the success of your tax business and career [13:53] Why intrapreneurs are critical to the business [15:43] What to do if you are an intrapreneur on fixed pay [17:10] Things to plan if you want to grow your business through intrapreneurs [19:00] How to attract intrapreneurs starting with the job interview [20:50] The epidemic in the tax industry [22:40] How to set expectations and have accountability with your team [24:26] What you have to do to slow down and plan for better HR [25:53] The one thing that is both your #1 opportunity and #1 pitfall that can derail you [26:04] “By taking care of your employees and understanding them the most, you’re automatically taking care of your clients.” —Jeff Dolan [26:34] Some top personality assessments you can use: StrengthsFinder.com, TheDiSCPersonalityTest.com‎, MyersBriggs.org, Kolbe.com [27:10] Lessons from thinking you understand your staff when you actually don’t [27:57] What’s the framework to keep communication open with your team? [29:37] Why understanding yourself and your staff will help you accelerate faster [31:03] The importance of regular 1-on-1 meetings with your team members [32:04] The spectrum of HR culture and what it means for small businesses [32:21] The key takeaway for small business HR [32:56] Why telling yourself, “I don’t have time for that.” is a warning signal [35:01] The mindset of good HR for your business as your grow [37:50] What about an executive assistant? Or getting admin help? [41:32] How to watch what you are spending as you are making more money [47:56] Some funny stories from Andy about his acceleration step [55:40] Is there a better way to tackle tax season and the acceleration step health-wise? [59:04] Why many tax pros at this step find mentors or consultants to help navigate [62:56] The last thing you want but a common thing that happens during acceleration Tax Pro Nation is sponsored by Pronto Tax School, Inc. Sponsored links include: The Pronto Path infographic (free) Basic Income Tax (Federal) course link Business Tax Verified online course link To sponsor an episode, please email hello@taxpronation.com   Tax Pro Nation is produced by Podcast Masters

The sixth step on The Pronto Path is Stabilization. In this episode, we walk through developing at least one profitable service other than tax preparation that works well with tax preparation.  This step sees tax pros bringing more long-term financial stability to their business.   In this series, we are walking through the 9 steps of The Pronto Path. The Pronto Path is a career roadmap or framework to remove fear and doubt from the tax profession. If you're wondering how to get from where you are right now to where you want to be as an independent tax professional, this show is for you!   To learn more, comment, and for the complete show notes, visit: http://taxpronation.com/6   Topics discussed:   [02:36] What does the Stabilization step look like? [03:50] What work can you give your talented staff outside of tax season? [04:50] How is this step relevant to the employee or part-time tax pro? [05:45] Why real estate works for many tax pros [06:20] Why not just take a break during the slower off season? [08:28] What does it mean to smooth out your equity curve? [09:23] Do I go through the Pronto Path again to build up my complementary business? [10:47] Does bookkeeping as a stabilizer match how you like to work? [13:51] Other businesses that independent tax pros consider or avoid and why [15:34] Current tax prep environment vs Future tax prep environment [16:34] How to stabilize your income as an employee [17:07] Andy’s Big Bear Lake tour guide tax pro story [18:19] The demands of selling and marketing and the danger of losing focus [19:21] Andy’s story on building two service lines in his tax business [20:20] The trap high achievers fall into as they start something new [22:59] Take everyone with you on the new business venture? [24:27] The uncertainty of starting something new after proving success in one area [25:33] The best place to start building your new complementary venture [27:41] The way you measure success of your new venture before investing too much into it [29:32] How tax pros can become spoiled as entrepreneurs [30:07] Practical ways to find out what the market is willing to pay for your new service or product [31:24] What it means when clients ask “What are you doing for the rest of the year?” [32:11] What businesses did Andy start that didn’t go so well? [33:36] Insight from Seth Godin on how to confirm the right track as an entrepreneur [37:00] What businesses went well for Andy? [40:00] Alternatives to starting your own business from scratch [40:34] Why you are not 80% of the way “there” when you start with a client base [42:00] Why not bundle accounting, legal, bookkeeping, and similar services? [43:28] Who makes up your dream team? [44:13] A major point to remember at this step [45:02] IRS Section 7216 and Disclosure [46:36] What are some legal ways to introduce your new service or business? [47:19] Which cultures like bundled services over others? [48:46] Tax Problem Resolution work as a great stabilizer for tax pros to add Tax Pro Nation is sponsored by Pronto Tax School, Inc. Sponsored links include: The Pronto Path infographic (free) Basic Income Tax (Federal) course link Business Tax Verified online course link   To sponsor an episode, please email hello@taxpronation.com Tax Pro Nation is produced by Podcast Masters

The seventh step on The Pronto Path is Multiplication. In this episode, we walk through how to train and mentor others in a way that benefits them and you. This step is how you scale your business exponentially.   In this series, we are walking through the 9 steps of The Pronto Path. The Pronto Path is a career roadmap or framework to remove fear and doubt from the tax profession. If you're wondering how to get from where you are right now to where you want to be as an independent tax professional, this show is for you!   To learn more, comment, and for the complete show notes, visit: http://taxpronation.com/7   Topics discussed:   [02:22] What does the multiplication step mean? [03:20] Cloning myself versus Diversifying my team [06:11] A key shift moment in our business at this step [07:09] A danger in corporate culture that prevents growth [10:05] How small teams can leverage diversity to grow [12:59] Who is the right person to mentor? [14:16] The difference maker at this step [14:52] Why sharing your most valuable knowledge is scary [15:15] The reality of what people do with the knowledge you share from Photographer Chase Jarvis [16:11] Why mentoring action takers is so beneficial [17:24] The dynamic of generosity at the multiplication step [18:25] The best marketing for a knowledge business like tax preparation [18:51] Great ways to shine a light on your knowledge and leadership [19:32] Why mentoring is the number one differentiator to multiply your business success [21:11] Examples of Andy's mentoring success to quadruple his team [24:00] An example of multiplication in the software industry that points to the power of mentoring a future mentor [25:06] How do you pick the best mentee? What does a mentor want? [27:45] A time-saving strategy when a mentee is not aligned with your values [28:40] An example of a successful mentee of Andy's [30:57] Why mentoring empire builders is key for exponential growth [33:27] Some tips on being intentional with mentoring [35:11] Accountability tips in a mentoring relationship [36:34] How The E-Myth book can promote a myth about mentoring [37:27] Mentoring and leading versus training and systems [39:15] Why has The E-Myth book resonated with people at this multiplication step? [40:16] What if I don't have the time to mentor? [41:12] An example of working on your business instead of in your business [42:37] The number one way to build processes that people actually follow [43:11] Book reference: The E-Myth by Michael Gerber [43:28] Standardizing your processes to train others [45:00] Where the attitude "That's just not me" will get you at this step [46:12] What most people crave in their work day that you can provide them [47:08] Why patience is important in mentoring [48:19] Apps and tools to help you record your processes and training materials [48:31] Wunderlist [48:48] Process.st [48:57] Teamwork [49:42] Evernote [50:10] An example of how to incorporate process logging into your day [53:32] Some simple tips on basic sales processes [54:45] How do I get to a million dollar tax office? [56:15] A marker for a solid tax professional in earnings per tax season [57:29] How much time should I expect to spend at the multiplication step? [59:36] The difference between leading a 5 employee business and a 5,000 employee business [63:06] How hard it is to scale in the tax business (H&R Block, Liberty Tax, Jackson Hewitt) Tax Pro Nation is sponsored by Pronto Tax School, Inc. Sponsored links include: The Pronto Path infographic (free) Basic Income Tax (Federal) course link Business Tax Verified online course link To sponsor an episode, please email hello@taxpronation.com Tax Pro Nation is produced by Podcast Masters

The eighth step on The Pronto Path is Transformation. In this episode, we walk through how to achieve profitability in your business even when you're not there. Not many achieve this level of mastery in their business.   In this series, we are walking through the 9 steps of The Pronto Path. The Pronto Path is a career roadmap or framework to remove fear and doubt from the tax profession. If you're wondering how to get from where you are right now to where you want to be as an independent tax professional, this show is for you!   To learn more, comment, and for the complete show notes, visit: http://taxpronation.com/8   Topics discussed:   [01:49] Why did Jeff choose the podcast format to help independent tax pros? [03:13] What does the transformation step entail? [04:06] Some reasons why tax pros will not want to achieve this step in their career [04:23] Andy mentions Pronto Tax School member Tony Diaz in Manning, CA, whose father enjoys working in the business at 96 years old [05:05] What if you don't ever want to retire from your business? [05:21] Why not starting your businesses with the end in mind can prevent success at this step [05:59] How entrepreneurs today are like rock stars and why that can be challenging to transform [08:04] How having the transformation mindset at all stages of your career can serve you well [08:36] The Superman complex and its addicting quality [09:23] How the employee mentality can cause issues as an entrepreneur [11:30] Why listening to this episode at an early stage in your career will help you achieve transformation [13:00] The infamous passive income debate. Is it possible? [15:40] What is freedom worth to you? [16:27] Is it greedy or lazy to earn money passively? [18:54] Why having a transformed business makes your business more valuable [19:35] How experienced tax professionals are like football players [22:24] Selling your tax business to one of the Top 3 franchises [23:24] Rule of thumb on company valuations in the tax industry [25:10] An example of how powerful a transformed business is when selling [26:08] Selling your tax business to pay for retirement [28:56] Clawback provision in sale of your tax business [30:15] How long should you plan on working in the business after a sale? [31:27] Two important metrics to keep in mind when gathering your numbers for sale [35:28] Selling a tax business is not like a tech IPO [36:14] Leaving your tax business to your family [37:20] Andy's personal stories about keeping the business in the family [40:16] How your business can become a burden on your family [41:19] The checklist of things to prepare at each step to achieve transformation when ready [43:41] Why the Initiation step is such an important time to capture your thoughts and lessons [45:53] Getting yelled at by a client and how to leverage it [47:35] Why getting the Activation step right can be the key to achieving transformation [51:00] Andy's 5 Step process when sitting down with a client [53:08] What is the pricing power of your business? Who is doing all the niche work? [56:05] How to leverage the enthusiasm of the Acceleration step for transformation [58:34] The trap of not modeling your processes [59:43] If you take a day off, what happens to your business? [60:33] The test run of building a transformed business [64:25] For employees, are you the kind of intrapreneur who can build a transformed business? [66:37] Practicing Absence Tax Pro Nation is sponsored by Pronto Tax School, Inc. Sponsored links include: The Pronto Path infographic (free) Basic Income Tax (Federal) course link Business Tax Verified online course link   To sponsor an episode, please email hello@taxpronation.com Tax Pro Nation is produced by Podcast Masters

The ninth and final step on The Pronto Path is Fruition. In this episode, we walk through how to achieve a lasting legacy in your tax career you can be proud of and enjoy. This step is truly an achievement but only for those who prepare for it ahead of time.   In this series, we are walking through the 9 steps of The Pronto Path. The Pronto Path is a career roadmap or framework to remove fear and doubt from the tax profession. If you're wondering how to get from where you are right now to where you want to be as an independent tax professional, this show is for you!   If you are buying or selling your tax business and want to connect with the Tax Pro Nation audience, please contact us to help make an introduction.   To learn more, comment, and for the complete show notes, visit: http://taxpronation.com/9   Topics discussed:   [02:36] Sunflower or Sequoia? [04:18] 3 reasons the tax industry sets up people for a favorable legacy step [08:04] The tendency in startups during good economic times [09:06] Why taxes is one of the most recession-proof, low cost businesses to enter [09:17] How low it costs to start a new tax business [10:10] What is a good profit margin after paying the owner’s salary? [10:34] Shareholder discretionary earnings [11:56] 3 challenges during this Fruition step [14:33] The lack of qualified buyers of tax businesses [16:26] Do you have an exit strategy? Do you have a succession plan? [17:22] What does the word legacy mean? [18:56] What from my life’s work is going to carry forward? [19:32] The exit strategy almost everyone considers [21:45] The emotions that can go along with selling to the Big 3 [22:53] Email us if you are listening as a trusted, qualified buyer of tax businesses [23:14] Opportunities for Tax Pro Nation listeners who want to grow their business [23:47] Selling your business deal points you need to know about ahead of time [24:32] The clawback provision in tax business sale contracts [25:10] How to price out tax businesses using a multiple of gross revenue [25:57] What a buyer of tax businesses looks for when looking at your business [26:24] What happens if you skipped over the Elevation step [27:21] Andy’s personal experience getting offers from buyers [28:17] Why to avoid selling your tax business until this step if you can [30:18] Andy’s experience when he stopped doing taxes full-time [31:17] The wise sage option [31:44] The challenges and benefits of passing the business to key employees [34:43] Giving yourself the runway to put together your succession plan [36:37] Retiring to something rather than from something [37:15] Avoiding depression in retirement [39:06] How to sell your business for good reasons [40:17] The key professionals to add to your team during this step [43:15] The one person who can guide you through the whole sales process [44:19] The large number of underutilized tax professionals with experience in this area [44:53] How to buy a tax business with no money down [46:01] The Baby Boomer generation’s exit from the tax business over the next 5 years [46:51] How Tax Pro Nation can connect buyers and sellers of tax businesses [47:57] What makes your business Fruition worthy? [49:27] What Warren Buffett can teach about communication at this step [50:44] Why businesses have a higher failure rate with each generational successor [52:04] How Andy’s father clearly communicated by example [54:00] What’s next for the Tax Pro Nation podcast?   Tax Pro Nation is sponsored by Pronto Tax School, Inc. Sponsored links include:   The Pronto Path infographic http://taxpronation.com/path   Basic Income Tax (Federal) course link: http://taxpronation.com/basic   Business Tax Verified online course link http://taxpronation.com/business   To sponsor an episode, please email hello@taxpronation.com Tax Pro Nation is produced by Podcast Masters

Tax pro and entrepreneur Casimiro Jesse Peña sits with Jeff and Andy for Tax Pro Nation’s first guest on the show. Jesse goes deep into the insights that have helped him grow his tax career and how truly caring about the client is key.   So many tax pros find themselves facing challenges that prevent their growth either personally or professionally. In this episode, Jesse shares vulnerably and openly about the challenges he faced and how he overcame them.   Humility, consistency, care, effort, empathy, patience. These are all things Jesse embodies that have made all the difference for him.   As we talk through his career, we get to The Pronto Path step of Multiplication, where Jesse finds himself today. Compare notes with Jesse as he talks about the struggle of finding team members who care about the client, who are leaders, and who have what it takes to overcome challenges tax pros face today.   Jesse serves the Latino community in the area of tax preparation and immigration services. He shares his views around serving this community and the next generation of young Latinos deciding how to do their taxes.   To learn more, and for the complete show notes, visit: http://taxpronation.com/10   Quotables: [02:58] “I love to help people. I feel that with my service I am helping a family.” —Casimiro Jesse Peña [21:09] “What is it that you need to be consistent with and diligent about doing?” —Casimiro Jesse Peña [31:16] “The most important attribute I have with my client is because I care about my client. They trust me because they know that I care.” —Casimiro Jesse Peña   In This Conversation We Cover:   [02:30] What Jesse loves about doing tax preparation [02:58] “I love to help people. I feel that with my service I am helping a family.” —Casimiro Jesse Peña [03:58] Jesse’s story about how he started in the tax business at 21 years old [06:28] Why the tax business is a good fit for entrepreneurs [08:05] How The Pronto Path matched Jesse’s journey and helped him identify next steps [09:26] The two keys to Jesse signing his first client [12:54] The most difficult step in Jesse’s career [17:07] What is the number one habit that takes a tax career to the next level [20:15] Jesse’s advice for brand new tax pros just starting their career [21:09] “What is it that you need to be consistent with and diligent about doing?” —Casimiro Jesse Peña [22:34] Jesse shares why the Multiplication step is the most difficult [26:15] Tips if you feel you have no support or team [30:24] Client care and how to make clients feel [31:16] “The most important attribute I have with my client is because I care about my client. They trust me because they know that I care.” —Casimiro Jesse Peña [33:15] How to find team members that actually care about clients [35:00] Two potential ways to break through to success in the Multiplication step [39:58] An unstoppable habit that will help you overcome anything [42:59] What role to look for if you are feeling overwhelmed with work [45:52] Three strategies around raising prices [52:12] How to survive and thrive through success and busy tax seasons [55:25] Why perspective is key when facing challenges [58:11] How to turn a client handshake into a hug [1:00:59] How the younger Latino community is challenging tax pros serving them [1:04:23] An amazing perspective on competition Tax Pro Nation is sponsored by Pronto Tax School, Inc. Sponsored links include:   The Pronto Path infographic http://taxpronation.com/path   Basic Income Tax (Federal) course link: http://taxpronation.com/basic   Business Tax Verified online course link http://taxpronation.com/business   To sponsor an episode, please email hello@taxpronation.com Tax Pro Nation is produced by Podcast Masters

In episode 11 of Tax Pro Nation, 37-year veteran tax pro and entrepreneur Glen Wielandt speaks about scaling franchises with the “Big 3” tax franchises and what it takes to succeed in the tax business. He has trained more than 100 area developers and 250 franchisees. He is the former Director of Franchise Business Development at Fiesta Auto Insurance and Tax® and has owned and operated 18 tax preparation offices in the Denver, Colorado, area.   To learn more, and for the complete show notes, visit: http://taxpronation.com/11   Quotables: [13:06] “It’s not the number of offices you own, but it’s the amount of tax returns you do in each office that’s important.” —Glen Wielandt [19:04] “If I had delegated the amount of tax returns that I did myself and paid more attention to my offices, I probably could have been more successful.” —Glen Wielandt [24:37] “It’s really important if you are going to be a multiple-office owner that you really learn more about business than taxes.” —Glen Wielandt [53:38] “As you grow, you need to take care of the people that take care of you.” —Glen Wielandt   In This Conversation We Cover:   [03:47] Why a tax business is notoriously difficult to scale [05:56] Why a franchise model works better than corporate-owned stores [08:02] The role mentorship plays in scaling during the Multiplication step of The Pronto Path [09:45] The 2 skills Glen’s Army and VITA experience taught him that helped his career [11:20] How Glen moonlighted with H&R Block and saw an opportunity for 28,000 tax returns [12:03] How Glen bought his first territory with Jackson-Hewitt [13:06] “It’s not the number of offices you own, but it’s the amount of tax returns you do in each office that’s important.” —Glen Wielandt [14:44] The 3 groups of tax pros that will benefit most from this episode [16:44] How Glen’s past District Manager of H&R Block (now head of CTEC) mentored him to see more opportunity [17:14] Glen’s pitfalls he ran into in his first offices and how he lost money over and over [19:04] “If I had delegated the amount of tax returns that I did myself and paid more attention to my offices, I probably could have been more successful.” —Glen Wielandt [21:59] The important difference between a tax preparer and an owner of a tax business [24:37] “It’s really important if you are going to be a multiple-office owner that you really learn more about business than taxes.” —Glen Wielandt [24:56] Glen’s insights from being mentored by John Hewitt [28:09] The “FTS” secret in the franchise model to guarantee a 90% success rate [32:54] What works in this new tax business environment? What’s an example? [35:40] Glen’s Liberty Tax experience and franchise scaling insights [37:38] Jeff asks about a poorly branded tax business he would drive by in TN [40:28] Guerilla Marketing tactics Liberty Tax used as they grew [42:02] The shift in marketing from the foot traffic tactics to the mobile phone [45:35] Building a culture of sales at Fiesta Auto Insurance and Tax [49:10] Feeling like you cannot charge what you should and what to do about it [51:15] Glen shares his experience growing franchises with Roni Deutsch [53:38] “As you grow, you need to take care of the people that take care of you.” —Glen Wielandt [58:10] In light of all the recent changes to the tax industry, is the tax business dead? [01:01:51] Glen shares an encouraging story of a franchisee who went from being $35K in debt to owning 35 tax offices Tax Pro Nation is sponsored by Pronto Tax School, Inc. Sponsored links include:   The Pronto Path infographic http://taxpronation.com/path   Basic Income Tax (Federal) course link: http://taxpronation.com/basic   Business Tax Verified online course link http://taxpronation.com/business   To sponsor an episode, please email hello@taxpronation.com Tax Pro Nation is produced by Podcast Masters

Experienced intrapreneur, executive, and tech disruptor Sean Ahlum speaks about succeeding within the framework of a larger organization. We cover a wide range of interesting and helpful topics like intrapreneurship, innovation accounting, lean startup methodology, managing up, white spaces, unique selling propositions (USP), mindset, sharing ideas, and finding the right team.   While we focus on Step 2 of The Pronto Path, we cover topics that touch on many more steps. The Activation step does not only apply to tax business owners. It applies to anyone working at a company. Employees can act entrepreneurially, too, and reap the benefits. In fact, it is a large part of being a successful tax professional.   A lot of people who have a job think they should not be entrepreneurial, disruptive, or take any risks. Sean takes a different approach and discusses the reason his new mindset takes him further in business.   To learn more, and for the complete show notes, visit: http://taxpronation.com/12   Resources Mentioned:   [02:53] The Beastie Boys and Productive vs Destructive Disruption (http://blog.beastieboys.com/) [05:25] “You can’t break the rules unless you know what the rules are.” —Kevin Canty (https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Kevin_Canty_(author)) [06:04] Steve Blank, Eric Ries and Lean Startup Methodology (https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Steve_Blank) [08:44] What is tekMountain, Castlebranch, and what makes them special? (http://tekmountain.com/) (https://www.castlebranch.com/) [20:54] “Good artists borrow. Great artists steal.”  —Austin Kleon (https://austinkleon.com/) [29:00] Persona Creation templates (https://www.google.com/search?q=persona+creation+templates) [30:53] Next Gen (http://tekmountain.com/tm_member/nextgen/) [31:21] Kevin Small with NewLine Loan, LLC (https://www.linkedin.com/in/kevin-small-608ab74) [32:54] Tax Preparer is the job with the highest average age (http://time.com/4726657/retirement-age-jobs/) [33:37] Small ball and the 2008 Philadelphia Phillies under Manager Charlie Manuel (https://en.m.wikipedia.org/wiki/2008_Philadelphia_Phillies_season)   Quotables: [05:25] “You can’t break the rules unless you know what the rules are.” —Kevin Canty (https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Kevin_Canty_(author)) [13:27] “The object of work is to recover the seriousness of a child at play.” —Nietzsche [20:54] “Good artists borrow. Great artists steal.”  —Austin Kleon (https://austinkleon.com/) [28:14] “I’m an intrapreneur because I just never could figure out what that one thing was that I was super passionate about.” —Sean Ahlum [29:50] “Your customers are probably already telling you what your next product is.” —Sean Ahlum [39:22] “Every single person that operates in the world is the CEO of company YOU.” —Sean Ahlum   In This Conversation We Cover:   [02:53] The Beastie Boys and Productive vs Destructive Disruption (http://blog.beastieboys.com/) [04:28] Innovation inside a more rigid, corporate structure [05:25] “You can’t break the rules unless you know what the rules are.” —Kevin Canty [06:04] Steve Blank, Eric Ries and Lean Startup Methodology [07:50] Disrupting a small business productively and intelligently [08:44] What is tekMountain, Castlebranch, and what makes them special? (http://tekmountain.com/) (https://www.castlebranch.com/) [13:27] “The object of work is to recover the seriousness of a child at play.” —Nietzsche [14:18] Why proximity to success at all levels improves everyone’s success [15:37] The mindset of creating a safe space to incubate innovative ideas [17:37] Innovation Accounting and Return on Learning (ROL) [18:25] Metrics on learning inside a growing company and Pareto’s Principle [19:53] Successful USP’s with examples [20:54] “Good artists borrow. Great artists steal.”  —Austin Kleon (https://austinkleon.com/) [23:45] Why you should innovate in competitive white spaces [26:28] How do I test where my white space is? How do I find my USP? [28:14] “I’m an intrapreneur because I just never could figure out what that one thing was that I was super passionate about.” —Sean Ahlum [28:34] How intrapreneurship and entrepreneurship are a slight psychological step apart [29:00] Persona Creation templates (https://www.google.com/search?q=persona+creation+templates) [29:50] “Your customers are probably already telling you what your next product is.” —Sean Ahlum [30:08] Why the Baby Boomer entrepreneurs are the most successful generation [30:53] Next Gen (http://tekmountain.com/tm_member/nextgen/) [31:21] Kevin Small with NewLine Loan, LLC (https://www.linkedin.com/in/kevin-small-608ab74) [31:58] How can I “manage up” in a company where new ideas are shot down? [32:54] Tax Preparer is the job with the highest average age (http://time.com/4726657/retirement-age-jobs/) [33:37] Small ball and the 2008 Philadelphia Phillies under Manager Charlie Manuel [35:04] How to show value while building psychological trust [37:18] How to take small micro actions to prove out and test ideas [39:22] “Every single person that operates in the world is the CEO of company YOU.” —Sean Ahlum [39:33] Who are the investors in the company of YOU? [41:55] Is being an employee the opposite of being an entrepreneur? Myth busting [44:34] The key questions Sean asks every day to assess whether he should be doing something else [45:40] What does it mean to be your own boss? [46:22] The shift in mindset when you take risk and how surfing is a great analogy [48:07] The two-way relationship between boss and employee [49:00] What Sean looks for in a candidate [51:16] Why diversity breeds innovation [52:05] How to share your ideas with your boss and company [55:10] The difference between having a great idea and executing it   Tax Pro Nation is sponsored by Pronto Tax School, Inc. Sponsored links include:   The Pronto Path infographic http://taxpronation.com/path   Basic Income Tax (Federal) course link: http://taxpronation.com/basic   Business Tax Verified online course link http://taxpronation.com/business   To sponsor an episode, please email hello@taxpronation.com Tax Pro Nation is produced by Podcast Masters

Executive sales trainer David Reeser visits the show to take the fear out of selling. He shares his thoughts on the mindset required to have helpful sales conversations without fear. We discuss his Victory Mindset concepts and get to role-play a sales conversation that follows a 4-Step process anyone can follow in their business.   While sales is applicable to any step on the The Pronto Path, the fear of sales conversations holds many back from growing their company. In this episode, David shares different ways to think about sales in order to change our mindset and therefore our actions when it comes to approaching sales.   As Andy did, you might have gotten into the tax business because you thought there would be minimal sales required since everyone needs to do their taxes. The reality is, sales is becoming ever more important in the competitive landscape and knowing how to simply and effectively sell will be key to your success.   To learn more, and for the complete show notes, visit: http://taxpronation.com/13   Quotables: [04:43] “Where I’ve seen some individuals fall short is that they’re so focused on the occupation of the task they want to do that they forget that we’re actually human beings.” —David Reeser [05:00] “A proper sales strategy is built on a sincere desire to help others and communicate your value.” —David Reeser [06:04] “I think sales is more powerful than just getting business done.” —David Reeser [11:12] “If you cannot see it in your mind, you cannot hold it in your hand.” —Steve Harvey [14:08] “Everyone is on the sales team!” —David Reeser   In This Conversation We Cover:   [03:21] The non-salesy appeal for Andy wanting to get into the tax industry in the first place [04:00] David’s thoughts on the proper mindset about sales in general [04:43] “Where I’ve seen some individuals fall short is that they’re so focused on the occupation of the task that they want to do that they forget that we’re actually human beings.” —David Reeser [05:00] “A proper sales strategy is built on a sincere desire to help others and communicate your value.” —David Reeser [05:11] The 4 Step Sales Process David teaches [05:38] How to close the sale with a really simple, and positive, question [06:04] “I think sales is more powerful than just getting business done.” —David Reeser [06:25] The key first thing you need to have sales conversations [07:57] Andy shares how tax professionals can build up their confidence in sales over time [08:50] How to feel good about what you do and sell, even if you don’t believe it’s world-changing [09:29] Different thoughts on “Fake It Until You Make It” mindset [11:12] “If you cannot see it in your mind, you cannot hold it in your hand.” —Steve Harvey [12:47] David shares how to talk about your value and your strategic desire to help others [13:36] What David really teaches [14:08] “Everyone is on the sales team!” —David Reeser [14:48] Jeff asks David to explain his meaning of the word strategic when it comes to sales [15:14] David shares his pet peeve with the phrase “deal with people” [16:38] David uses a medical analogy to paint the picture of how to build trust in sales 17:40] 58% of Pronto tax pros said they enjoyed helping people the most over all other benefits of the tax business [18:29] David and Andy walk through a role-play sales conversation [27:38] Jeff jumps in to explain the personality dynamics of the two actors in the role-play [30:35] David shares his Victory Mindset training concept [31:41] Andy shares his thoughts on how the role-play went and the key lessons [32:38] Why professionals know how they do business and stick to it [33:15] David urges listeners to rethink how they think about sales [34:04] What if I am not a “people-person?” [34:47] David shares why he believes high Emotional Quotient (EQ) is not required in sales [37:29] How to find pain or opportunity with a prospect [40:14] The power of loose connections [41:41] The difference between selling as a large brand or a small independent company [43:02] The importance of knowing the thing you are solving for your client [45:22] The implications of defining success for your business [47:16] David’s Pronto Tax School Sales Course for Independent Tax Professionals Tax Pro Nation is sponsored by Pronto Tax School, Inc. Sponsored links include:   The Pronto Path infographic http://taxpronation.com/path   Basic Income Tax (Federal) course link: http://taxpronation.com/basic   Business Tax Verified online course link http://taxpronation.com/business   To sponsor an episode, please email hello@taxpronation.com Tax Pro Nation is produced by Podcast Masters

Chauncey Hutter Jr.’s salesmanship is the core skill he leveraged throughout his tax career. In this episode, he shares his insight, advice, and experience on how you can take advantage of the huge opportunity in the tax business today.   He began working in the tax industry in 1990 in his father’s two room $50,000 per year tax preparation office. In just a few short years, Chauncey took this small office with a few part-time employees and built a Multi-Million dollar company, with 27,000 clients, over 440 employees, and 15 market areas and across three states (in ten years).   Chauncey sold his ownership stake in the family business in 2007 to concentrate full-time on coaching and consulting business owners and entrepreneurs to greater levels of success.   Chauncey has worked directly with over 3,700 tax business owner clients, helping create Million Dollar breakthroughs along the way. Over the past several years, he has seen such an amazing opportunity in the tax industry that he is now getting back into owning tax businesses.   Listen in on what he sees, why he is getting back into the tax business as an owner, and how you can also capitalize on it by using salesmanship and unconventional marketing.   To learn more, and for the complete show notes, visit: http://taxpronation.com/14   Resources Mentioned:   [55:00] Chauncey’s book BLOCKBUSTER: How to Build a Million Dollar Tax Business   Quotables: [11:04] “If you don’t have marketing and salesmanship at the top of the list as far as priority, then you are really not stewarding the business well.” —Chauncey Hutter, Jr. [11:18] “If everyone else in the business does what you’re doing, you’re probably not going to jump up ahead of them.” —Chauncey Hutter, Jr. [12:28] “I would rather be stressed for 100 days to take the pressure off the rest of the year.” —Chauncey Hutter, Jr. [13:30] “Bigger paydays bring bigger problems too. But I prefer having those bigger problems.” —Chauncey Hutter, Jr. [16:51] “Tax professionals are sitting in the catbird seat.” —Chauncey Hutter, Jr. [26:13] “At the end of the day, it all comes down to the trust you have with the client.” —Andy Frye   In This Conversation We Cover:   [04:07] Why trying to be the best and makes sales early in your career can take care of your legacy [05:33] Chauncey’s family dynamics as he tripled his family’s tax business quickly [06:32] A quick tip on how to maximize your profitability while taking your first tax class [07:51] How a thriving, growing business can afford family vacations during tax season [08:42] How self-awareness can fast track your success by matching skills with market opportunities [09:42] Why a focus on selling and marketing is critical enough to hire out if you cannot or will not yourself [11:04] “If you don’t have marketing and salesmanship at the top of the list as far as priority, then you are really not stewarding the business well.” —Chauncey Hutter, Jr. [11:18] “If everyone else in the business does what you’re doing, you’re probably not going to jump up ahead of them.” —Chauncey Hutter, Jr. [12:28] “I would rather be stressed for 100 days to take the pressure off the rest of the year.” —Chauncey Hutter, Jr. [13:30] “Bigger paydays bring bigger problems too. But I prefer having those bigger problems.” —Chauncey Hutter, Jr. [13:55] Chauncey shares how the tax business has changed since he saw his success [14:43] The Commoditization of the Tax Business over the last 20 years [15:16] Chauncey’s view that the biggest problem is the biggest opportunity [16:51] “Tax professionals are sitting in the catbird seat.” —Chauncey Hutter, Jr. [18:17] Why now is the time while tax pros give up on the Trump Tax Law to get into the tax business [19:24] How Chauncey is following his own advice and getting back into the tax business as an owner [22:26] What a tax industry deal looks like to sell a tax practice and some ideas to make it more profitable for both the buyer and the seller [25:06] How many years you will typically be expected to work in your business after you sell it [26:13] “At the end of the day, it all comes down to the trust you have with the client.” —Andy Frye [26:42] Why Jeff and Chauncey are offended at the sale terms most tax pros get [27:14] How to put yourself in the best position to get the best terms [27:37] Why the Stabilization Step in the Pronto Path is so important to master [30:16] What the best and little known areas are for adding services to your tax business [33:22] The challenges of passing a business to a family member [35:36] The sad truth of having to stop enabling family members and letting them go [38:04] The main reason why tax businesses do not scale and how Chauncey scaled after the first tax season [41:03] Funny stories about why opening new locations and scaling your business is not all roses [42:15] Turning crap into clients: An example of why Chauncey is a master marketer [44:55] The key metrics to consider when buying a tax business [46:58] Why the Refund Anticipation Loan (RAL) of the 1990’s might make a comeback [50:38] How important tax education and training is to growing your tax business [53:22] How one tax pro turned the sale of his tax business into an annuity-like payment [55:00] Chauncey’s book BLOCKBUSTER: How to Build a Million Dollar Tax Business [55:44] The #1 “starving crowd” that needs the most help right now in the tax industry [57:00] A shocking truth about the large big box tax franchises [59:39] If you are a business owner and just want to get out, prepare for this [01:00:25] A winning strategy if you are 2-3 years away from selling your business Tax Pro Nation is sponsored by Pronto Tax School, Inc. Sponsored links include:   The Pronto Path infographic http://taxpronation.com/path   Basic Income Tax (Federal) course link: http://taxpronation.com/basic   Business Tax Verified online course link http://taxpronation.com/business   To sponsor an episode, please email hello@taxpronation.com Tax Pro Nation is produced by Podcast Masters

The Schedule C Queen, Teowonna Clifton, of Simply Taxes of South Carolina, LLC, is establishing her independent tax preparation business in the Columbia local market while focusing on helping entrepreneurs legitimize their side hustles. Join us in this episode of Tax Pro Nation as we listen to her stories and challenges as she grows her tax business through the Elevation Step and beyond.   To learn more, and for the complete show notes, visit: http://taxpronation.com/15   Resources Mentioned:   [01:15] Chauncey Hutter, Jr. Success Summit in Orlando, FL [03:38] How Simply Taxes of South Carolina got its start in an unconventional location [08:27] Teowonna’s journey to the Elevation Step on The Pronto Path [16:04] Ways to expand her services during her Stabilization Step   In This Conversation We Cover:   [01:48] How Teowonna got her start in tax preparation at H&R Block [02:24] Main lessons learned from H&R Block [03:38] How Simply Taxes of South Carolina got its start in an unconventional location [06:35] The challenge of balancing a full-time job and entrepreneurship [08:27] Teowonna’s journey to the Elevation Step on The Pronto Path [11:22] The major decision Teowonna faces currently to grow her business [13:02] Teowonna compares current leap versus initial leap into entrepreneurship [15:00] How Teowonna will navigate niching into business taxes while retaining current niche [16:04] Ways to expand her services during her Stabilization Step [17:37] Teowonna’s strategy when discussing a price raise with existing clients [20:04] A key client phrase that reveals you are charging too little [22:49] How Teowonna is turning into the “Schedule C Queen” [24:03] Teowonna shares her powerful new message to “Legitimize Your Hustle” [25:42] How Teowonna knew she had a niche forming for her tax business [27:08] The anxiety point for most tax professionals in their growth journey [27:56] What Teowonna is looking for in a team member to add to her team [29:35] A major hiring fear that plagues tax professionals and how to change your view of it   Tax Pro Nation is sponsored by Pronto Tax School, Inc. Sponsored links include:   The Pronto Path infographic http://taxpronation.com/path   Basic Income Tax (Federal) course link: http://taxpronation.com/basic   Business Tax Verified online course link http://taxpronation.com/business   To sponsor an episode, please email hello@taxpronation.com Tax Pro Nation is produced by Podcast Masters

How do you build a strong marriage while building a strong tax career? Kathleen Freiburghouse brings her wisdom, joy, and humor as she shares timeless lessons that professionals can take to heart in their pursuit of success and happiness.   In addition to her other life accomplishments — teaching school for 38 years, obtaining a Master's Degree in Education, being a Catholic nun for 8 years — Kathleen Freiburghouse has been married to a tax business owner for more than 40 years. After four decades of grueling tax seasons, Kathleen and her husband Kent still have one of the most admired and vibrant marriages around.   In this episode, Kathleen shares her hard-earned wisdom and unique views on exactly how.   To learn more, and for the complete show notes, visit: http://taxpronation.com/16   Resources Mentioned:   [47:33] How developing empathy in marriage overflows into treating your employees better (Listen to Episode 5 for more insights on employee relationships) [54:30] Jeff shares how many days The ONE Thing by Gary Keller (book) says it takes to form a habit   Quotables:   [06:57] “That’s true love. Beautiful love. To say that your spouse’s joy matters so much to you.” —Kathleen Freiburghouse [16:30] “I don’t want to be looking across the table at somebody in April and have created habits that have nothing to do with intimacy and the ease of marriage.” —Kathleen Freiburghouse [21:03] “Know what your shared treasure is.” —Kathleen Freiburghouse [25:51] “Many people in this generation think they need more money for their pleasures than they do.” —Kathleen Freiburghouse [42:30] “You don’t really master marriage. You learn intimacy. You learn empathy. You master a career.” —Kathleen Freiburghouse   In This Conversation We Cover:   [04:14] The irony of getting into the tax business because it’s family friendly [05:30] What does an admired marriage look like? [06:57] “That’s true love. Beautiful love. To say that your spouse’s joy matters so much to you.” —Kathleen Freiburghouse [08:07] What women want most in life with their spouse (and what men want) [09:05] How to have fun in your marriage in the midst of pain [11:00] A key question to ask yourself when dating [11:57] How Kathleen drastically changed the normal path of a tax career marriage [16:06] What Kathleen said to all those who doubted she could keep to her values [16:30] “I don’t want to be looking across the table at somebody in April and have created habits that have nothing to do with intimacy and the ease of marriage.” —Kathleen Freiburghouse [18:10] A thought-provoking story that asks the questions, “Where is your treasure? And do you agree on it in your marriage?” [21:03] “Know what your shared treasure is.” —Kathleen Freiburghouse [21:08] How to deal with the stress of uneven income of a tax pro in marriage [25:51] “Many people in this generation think they need more money for their pleasures than they do.” —Kathleen Freiburghouse [28:39] A true sadness you must overcome [31:28] What Kathleen has learned about being in a family business [34:38] What to avoid when you get home from work to improve your marriage [36:46] The power of relationship habits as part of your morning routine [38:21] Why feelings should not lead actions [39:26] Some myths about shared values and a surprising finding about couples who bond around making money [42:30] “You don’t really master marriage. You learn intimacy. You learn empathy. You master a career.” —Kathleen Freiburghouse [43:43] Andy shares his thoughts on why happily married men make more money [47:33] How developing empathy in marriage overflows into treating your employees better (Listen to Episode 5 for more insights on employee relationships) [48:29] Jeff shares a funny story from his dad’s Marine Corp experience on good leadership and caring about your people [49:00] How to build the kind of loyalty that works for you for 30 years [50:46] Where do I start to improve my marriage when it’s not going well? [54:30] Jeff shares how many days The ONE Thing by Gary Keller (book) says it takes to form a habit   Tax Pro Nation is sponsored by Pronto Tax School, Inc. Sponsored links include:   The Pronto Path infographic http://taxpronation.com/path   Basic Income Tax (Federal) course link: http://taxpronation.com/basic   Business Tax Verified online course link http://taxpronation.com/business   To sponsor an episode, please email hello@taxpronation.com Tax Pro Nation is produced by Podcast Masters

Nick Nanton joins the show to talk about the importance of surrounding yourself with high performers to become one, the traits required to reach the success you want in your career and life, and how your story can be your biggest asset as a tax professional.   To learn more, and for the complete show notes, visit: http://taxpronation.com/17   In This Conversation We Cover: [01:40] Who is Nick Nanton? [03:09] "You are the average of the 5 people you spend the most time with." —Jim Rohn [03:19] Ben Hardy, one of the top writers on Medium.com, wrote the book Will Power Doesn't Work about how your surroundings dictate who you become [03:57] What kind of decisions you make when your mind gets decision fatigue [04:12] How to set yourself up for making successful decisions by changing your environment [04:44] "Spending time around extraordinary people makes extraordinary become normal." —Nick Nanton [05:00] How Nick's childhood, parents, and growing up in the Caribbean (Barbados) shaped his life and set the foundation for his success [06:05] Why 90% of success is mindset, his early Tony Robbins influence, and his journey trying to become an Olympic tennis athlete [07:00] How choosing you relational environment is not just about money [09:55] The disconnect Nick has learned about the tax professional community that's costing you clients [12:32] Nick's 47 LLCs and his relationship with his tax professional [13:13] "The great news is ... the bar is so low!" —Nick Nanton [14:05] "Most entrepreneurs and successful people become successful in many ways because they break the mold in some shape or form." —Nick Nanton [15:33] The one thing Nick learned about law and why meddling in what you are not best at doesn't serve you [16:27] When my mindset shift happens, how do I go from where I am to where I want to be? [17:25] "Life is based on the exchange of value." —Nick Nanton [18:07] The story about how Nick became a clown for $150/hour [19:10] How to know when you need to hang out with different people [20:02] The mindset shifting story of Nick's driving reason behind so much of what he does today [22:38] The feeling of commoditization among tax professionals and how to stand out [24:45] The tough realization that simply getting past the bar of entry in any field is ensuring you are now just like everybody else [25:31] The story branding and positioning conversation that truly differentiates you [26:28] What is true branding? Why is it not your logo, appearance, products, or services? [26:53] The only thing you have that no one can copy [27:31] Why storytelling is a learned skill and how it gets him into Nashville songwriters rooms [28:24] "A story, in any way, shape or form, can never be too long, just too boring." —Nick Nanton [29:14] How false modesty hurts your story and how to get others to tell your story for you [30:43] The key turning point when you stop storytelling for you and start storytelling for others [32:58] Nick's story about working with his dad and how he successfully works with his family [35:40] What Nick's coach, Dan Sullivan, taught him about unique ability and what you should be paring down your time to focus on daily [38:02] What Nick learned from reading 3 pages of the book, DaVinci and the 40 Answers, and the 2 categories all people fall into [38:50] How to achieve the best outcomes when working and collaborating with others [39:42] What to do when you find you are not good at telling your own story   Tax Pro Nation is sponsored by Pronto Tax School, Inc. Sponsored links include: The Pronto Path infographic http://taxpronation.com/path Basic Income Tax (Federal) course link: http://taxpronation.com/basic Business Tax Verified online course link http://taxpronation.com/business To sponsor an episode, please email hello@taxpronation.com Tax Pro Nation is produced by Podcast Masters

Our guest on this episode is Carlos Samaniego, EA, winner of the 2020 My Tax Career Story Contest. Join us as he shares his amazing story of redemption going from a tax evader to self-taught tax pro. He was inspired by a mentor to get into the tax business, and he now acts as a mentor to others as an Enrolled Agent, author, and speaker. To learn more, and for the complete show notes, visit: http://taxpronation.com/18

Our guest on this episode is Kevin C. Huston, EA, USTCP. Join us as he shares his moving story of growing up in poverty with his grandmother to finding success as an entrepreneur. To learn more, and for the complete show notes, visit: http://taxpronation.com/19

Our guest on this episode is William Marcus Lopez. Join us as he shares his heart-wrenching story of going from entrepreneur to employee to starting over again in the tax business after his spouse passed away. To learn more, and for the complete show notes, visit: http://taxpronation.com/20

Our guest on this episode is Beth Lynn Kelly, Tax Chick. Join us as she shares her journey from lawyer to actress to tax professional. To learn more, and for the complete show notes, visit: http://taxpronation.com/21

Our guest on this episode is Nora Garcia. Join us as she shares her heart-warming story of motherhood, divorce, and starting her Liberty Tax franchise. To learn more, and for the complete show notes, visit: http://taxpronation.com/22

Our guest on this episode is Misty Dragon. Join us as she shares her story of overcoming her husband's medical bills and having to move cross-country, living out of a hotel to build her tax practice. To learn more, and for the complete show notes, visit: http://taxpronation.com/23

Our guest on this episode is Cynthia Shofer, EA. Join us as she shares her wisdom on the tax industry as a Block Advisor, among her other experiences ranging from air pilot to surgeon. To learn more, and for the complete show notes, visit: http://taxpronation.com/24

Our guest on this episode is Joel Harworth. Join us as he shares his ambitious story of adding on an acquired tax business to his financial services business of 20 years. To learn more, and for the complete show notes, visit: http://taxpronation.com/25

Our guest on this episode is Terre Crisman. Join us as she shares her amazing story of life change and deciding to be a positive person for her clients. To learn more, and for the complete show notes, visit: http://taxpronation.com/26

Our guest on this episode is Karensue Matthews. Join us as she shares her inspiring story of starting her tax and accounting business at a camping ground picnic table in a new state after a new baby and divorce. To learn more, and for the complete show notes, visit: http://taxpronation.com/27

Our guest on this episode is Camea Franklin, EA. Join us as she shares her story from John Hewitt recruiting her to becoming an independent tax professional, all while juggling single motherhood and a full-time job. To learn more, and for the complete show notes, visit: http://taxpronation.com/28

Our guest on this episode is John Piekarski. Join us as he shares his Renaissance-man story of starting as a tax professional in Huntington Beach, CA, 33 years ago. He grew his tax business along with all of his clients' businesses, all while traveling the world, doing amazing things, and enjoying his life. To learn more, and for the complete show notes, visit: http://taxpronation.com/29

Our guest on this episode is Ernesto Delacruz. Join us as he shares his immigrant story of hard work, grit, and building his American Dream in the tax business after coming from Peru 27 years ago. To learn more, and for the complete show notes, visit: http://taxpronation.com/30

Andy and Andrea start off the first episode of Step-by Step S Corp Tax Prep Process reviewing intake and what to expect from your clients to make it easier for you to complete their entity tax return.   For more information about the episode visit us at prontotaxschool.com or email us to support@prontotaxschool.com

Andy and Daren start off the second episode of Step-by Step S Corp Tax Prep Process reviewing BOIR, Beneficial Ownership Information Reporting.  Since some of our members have reached out that one or two questions are a bit confusing and they are unsure if they should charge for it.   For more information about the episode visit us at prontotaxschool.com or email us to support@prontotaxschool.com

Andy and Glen start off the third episode of Step-by Step S Corp Tax Prep Process with an open discussion with the members how they have helped each other.  Sean will share is experience with business clients and what he has learned   For more information about the episode visit us at prontotaxschool.com or email us to support@prontotaxschool.com

Andy and Daren start off the fourth episode of Step-by Step S Corp Tax Prep Process with an open discussion the importance of keeping a paper trail and breaking down total expenses in S Corp returns.  Its a handy practice if your client ever needs to expalin where the totals originated from.   For more information about the episode visit us at prontotaxschool.com or email us to support@prontotaxschool.com

Andy and Glen start off the fifth episode of Step-by Step S Corp Tax Prep Process with an open discussion on balancing a Balance Sheet for S Corp returns.  The difficutlies of a Sch L when all the information is not provided.   For more information about the episode visit us at prontotaxschool.com or email us to support@prontotaxschool.com

Andy Frye EA and Andrea MacDonald CPA start off the sixth episode of Step-by Step S Corp Tax Prep Process reviewing the issues with business clients taht do not have their accounting complete.  What do you do? Do you do their accounting or do you refer tehm to someon else.  The harsh reality of cleaning up accounting for your clients.   For more information about the episode visit us at prontotaxschool.com or email us to support@prontotaxschool.com

Andy Frye EA and Daren Gress EA start off the seventh and last episode of Step-by Step S Corp Tax Prep Process with an open discussion on accountable plans and the value that clients get from the service you are provding.   For more information about the episode visit us at prontotaxschool.com or email us to support@prontotaxschool.com

Andy Frye EA and Andrea MacDonald CPA start off the first episode of Schedule C Prep Process.  How to price last minute Schedule Cs when you're closer to the deadline.  Should you be aggressive with your prep fees? and what is an aggressive prep fees?   For more information about the episode visit us at prontotaxschool.com or email us to support@prontotaxschool.com

Glen Wielandt Tax Business Coach starts off the second episode of Schedule C Prep Process with an open discussion on extensions, price changes, new returns, and the biggest challenges everyone faced this tax season.   For more information about the episode visit us at prontotaxschool.com or email us to support@prontotaxschool.com

Andy Frye EA and Andrea MacDonald CPA will dive into the fascinating realm of advanced Schedule C depreciation strategies.  They will discuss the varying treatments of depreciation and explain why capital accounts often don't align between the books and the tax return, attributing these descrepancies to how assets are managed.   For more information about the episode visit us at prontotaxschool.com or email us to support@prontotaxschool.com

Andy Frye EA and Daren Gress EA will lead the conversation in Retriement Plan Strategies for Schedule C.  Addressing the confusion around setting up retirment plans and clearing up the common misinformation found on social media.   For more information about the episode visit us at prontotaxschool.com or email us to support@prontotaxschool.com

Andy Frye EA and Glen Wielandt Tax Business Coach lead the conversation on Health Insurance Strategies for self-employed clients.  Is it a big issue? Are your Schedule C clients even conerned about Health Insurance?   For more information about the episode visit us at prontotaxschool.com or email us to support@prontotaxschool.com

Andy Frye EA will dive into the fun and exciting world of QBI deduction strategies, discussing how to help your clients maximize their QBI and save on their taxes.   For more information about the episode visit us at prontotaxschool.com or email us to support@prontotaxschool.com

Andy Frye EA and Daren Gress EA discuss the fun times of rsik mitigation strategies related to Schedule C and how to navigate audits.  They'll also be comparing the pros and cons of in-peron versus correspondence audits.   For more information about the episode visit us at prontotaxschool.com or email us to support@prontotaxschool.com

Andy Frye EA and Andrea MacDonald CPA will lead the conversation on the exciting world of Damage Control Strategies for Schdeule C; start by letting your client know about the discrepancy you've identified in their prior year return.   For more information about the episode visit us at prontotaxschool.com or email us to support@prontotaxschool.com

Andy Frye EA and Daren Gress EA will lead the conversation on Immigration Strategies on a Schedule C.  How to handle undocumented business owners.    For more information about the episode visit us at prontotaxschool.com or email us to support@prontotaxschool.com

Andy Frye EA will discuess the If, When, Why, and How of converting a sole proprietorship (Schedule C) to an LLC or S-corp, including the importance of setting up your client on payroll after the conversion.    For more information about the episode visit us at prontotaxschool.com or email us to support@prontotaxschool.com

Andy Frye EA and Andrea MacDonald CPA will cover when and how to move your clietns off of Sch C to Scorp.   For more information about the episode visit us at prontotaxschool.com or email us to support@prontotaxschool.com

Andy Frye EA and Daren Gress EA will dive into the trends of Schedule E: self rental rules they will cover entity bonus, strategies and pitfalls.   For more information about the episode visit us at prontotaxschool.com or email us to support@prontotaxschool.com