Our podcast is engineered by entrepreneurs for entrepreneurs helping them to pay the RIGHT amount of taxes using proprietary artificial intelligence technology.
In this episode R. Kenner French sits down with global investment expert Daniel Nikic to explore why international investing matters more than ever in an interconnected world. As supply chains, innovation, and capital flow across borders, relying solely on U.S.-based investments can increase risk and limit opportunity. Nikic explains how globalization impacts everything from commodities and manufacturing to technology and population growth, making global diversification a powerful tool for modern portfolios.Daniel shares his unique background—growing up in Canada, living in Croatia, and working across Central and Eastern Europe—giving him firsthand insight into how global markets function. His experience in market research, financial modeling, commercial real estate, and family offices reveals how high-net-worth investors allocate capital internationally. By studying how family offices structure investments, Daniel highlights why understanding global trends is critical for long-term wealth building.A major theme of the conversation is diversification as risk management, not speculation. Kenner and Daniel explain how international exposure can lower portfolio volatility and reduce reliance on any single economy. Markets such as the UAE, Saudi Arabia, Scandinavia, India, China, and emerging Europe are discussed as areas with strong growth drivers, including infrastructure, commodities, innovation, and favorable demographics. The key message: risk exists everywhere, but smart diversification can balance it.The discussion also dives into AI as a global investment opportunity, with Daniel explaining that we are still in the “augmented AI” stage—where human oversight remains essential. While AI is transforming healthcare, finance, and business operations, both experts stress that human judgment, experience, and ethics still matter. Looking ahead, they touch on quantum computing as the next frontier that could further reshape global business and investment strategies.Finally, Daniel offers practical advice for U.S. entrepreneurs considering international investing: identify what's missing in the U.S. market and look abroad for opportunities that complement domestic demand. From manufacturing and agriculture to commodities and emerging technologies, global investing isn't about chasing trends—it's about strategic positioning. The episode reinforces one core idea: in today's world, understanding global markets, AI, and diversification isn't optional—it's essential for building resilient, future-proof wealth.Takeaways• Globalization has made international investing essential.• Diversifying investments can lower overall portfolio risk.• Traveling can provide valuable insights into global markets.• There are risks in every investment, domestic or international.• America remains a strong player in the global market.• Emerging markets like UAE and Saudi Arabia offer opportunities.• AI is transforming investment strategies and decision-making.• Investors should conduct thorough research before entering new markets.• Croatia is becoming an attractive destination for investors.• Understanding local cultures and markets is crucial for success.Sound Bites• There's risk wherever you invest.• You have to do your research.• Look at you, nice, man.Listen & Subscribe for More:
Asset protection isn't about hiding wealth — it's about keeping what you've spent decades building. In this conversation, R. Kenner French breaks down what asset protection really means and why high-net-worth individuals, especially real estate investors, are prime targets for lawsuits. He explains that without a proper structure, a single legal action can wipe out years of hard work, forcing people to start over at the worst possible time in life.Kenner emphasizes that LLCs are one of the most effective tools for asset protection when they are structured correctly. An LLC creates legal separation between personal assets and business or investment properties, limiting exposure if a lawsuit occurs. By isolating assets into separate entities, investors can prevent one legal issue from spreading across their entire portfolio — a strategy often referred to as asset diversification.A major theme of the discussion is that asset protection is risk mitigation, not paperwork. Kenner uses the “moat around a castle” analogy to show how strong planning discourages lawsuits before they even begin. Proper structuring, documentation, and ongoing compliance make potential litigants think twice, often deciding the time and cost of pursuing a case simply isn't worth it.The conversation also highlights the importance of layered protection, combining LLCs with liability insurance, retirement accounts, trusts, and strategic planning. Kenner stresses that not all attorneys specialize in asset protection, making it critical to work with experts who understand how to design structures that hold up under legal scrutiny. Asset protection plans, he notes, are now more accessible and affordable than ever.Finally, Kenner reminds listeners that asset protection is not a one-time event. It requires regular review as asset values change, new properties are acquired, and risk exposure evolves. The key takeaway is clear: the best time to build an asset protection plan is before you need it. As French puts it, “The time to repair the roof is when the sun is shining.”Takeaways• Asset protection is crucial for safeguarding wealth.• LLCs provide a legal structure for asset protection.• Proper planning is essential for effective asset protection.• Liability insurance is a key component of asset protection.• Regularly review and adjust your asset protection strategies.• Not all attorneys specialize in asset protection; choose wisely.• Asset protection plans are becoming more affordable.• Understanding your risks is vital in asset protection planning.• A well-structured LLC can limit exposure to lawsuits.• Consulting with an asset protection specialist is recommended.Sound Bites• What is asset protection?• Garbage in, garbage out.• You have to look at all your risks.Listen & Subscribe for More:
ModernMillions.ai is more than a book—it's a behind-the-scenes blueprint for how real entrepreneurs are using artificial intelligence to win today. In this special episode, R. Kenner French pulls back the curtain on the years-long journey of writing his latest book and explains why AI is no longer optional for business owners who want to stay competitive. The book was built from lived experience, not theory, shaped by working hands-on with over 2,000 entrepreneurs across real estate, law, medicine, and service-based businesses through VastSolutionsGroup.com.At its core, ModernMillions.ai answers three questions every entrepreneur is asking right now: How do you make more money, how do you keep more of it, and how do you protect what you've built—using AI? Kenner explains how artificial intelligence can help businesses grow from six figures to multiple six or seven figures by improving decision-making, operational efficiency, marketing, and strategy. This isn't hype—it's practical, real-world AI deployment designed for business owners who want results.The book also dives deeply into saving millions through smarter tax strategies powered by AI. Instead of spending years learning complex tax law, entrepreneurs can now leverage artificial intelligence to identify deductions, optimize structures, and reduce tax liability faster and more efficiently than ever before. Kenner emphasizes that AI doesn't replace professionals—but it empowers entrepreneurs to ask better questions, move faster, and make smarter financial decisions.Beyond growth and tax savings, ModernMillions.ai tackles a topic many business owners overlook until it's too late: asset protection and estate planning. Kenner explains how AI can assist in drafting strategies, organizing structures, and building a protective “moat” around wealth—helping entrepreneurs safeguard what they've worked so hard to create. From asset protection frameworks to estate planning efficiency, AI becomes a force multiplier for long-term security.What truly sets this book apart is that it's designed as a living, evolving resource. Paired with the continuously updated ModernMillions.ai website, readers gain ongoing access to new AI tools, strategies, and resources as technology rapidly evolves. Kenner invites honest feedback, reviews, and even critiques—because the book is meant to grow alongside the AI landscape. For entrepreneurs, aspiring business owners, and even W-2 professionals considering a leap, ModernMillions.ai offers a clear message: use artificial intelligence to build, protect, and scale—or risk being left behind.Takeaways• The book Modern Millions.ai is aimed at entrepreneurs looking to leverage AI.• AI can help businesses increase revenue and save on taxes.• Continuous updates to the book and website will provide ongoing resources.• Kenner emphasizes the importance of honest feedback on the book.• AI can assist in asset protection strategies.• The book is a culmination of years of effort and learning.• Kenner encourages readers to share the book with others.• AI is not just a trend; it's essential for modern business.• The writing process involved both AI and personal creativity.• Kenner has credibility as a FinTech writer and author.Sound Bites• I want some honest feedback.• It's been a labor of love.• My flavor is put into the book.Listen & Subscribe for More:
Estate planning isn't optional—it's inevitable. In this comprehensive presentation, R. Kenner French makes one thing unmistakably clear: everyone is going to die, but not everyone prepares wisely. Estate planning is about more than documents—it's about protecting heirs, minimizing taxes, avoiding chaos, and ensuring your life's work is distributed exactly as you intend. Waiting too long often leads to probate, public exposure of assets, family conflict, and unnecessary tax burdens that could have been avoided with proper planning. Kenner explains estate planning in practical, human terms, breaking down what an estate truly includes—from real property and businesses to investments and personal assets. He clarifies essential roles such as beneficiaries, trustees, grantors, and executors, while emphasizing how probate exposes estates to delays, legal costs, and public scrutiny. A will alone, he stresses, is not enough—it cannot avoid probate, protect privacy, or provide the level of tax efficiency that most high-net-worth families need. Trusts take center stage as the cornerstone of smart estate planning. Kenner highlights powerful strategies like credit shelter trusts and bypass trusts, which can legally shield assets from estate taxes when structured properly and established early enough to meet IRS rules. Tax efficiency is a recurring theme throughout the discussion. Kenner explains estate taxes, inheritance taxes, and how gross and net estate values are calculated—factoring in debts, expenses, and administrative costs. Life insurance is presented as a strategic tool, especially for larger estates, with a breakdown of survivorship policies, first-to-die policies, and advanced structures like ILITs that can remove insurance proceeds from taxable estates altogether. Charitable planning and advanced strategies round out the conversation. Charitable remainder trusts and charitable lead trusts are explored as options for charitably inclined individuals who also want income, capital gains relief, or tax deductions. Kenner emphasizes that charitable trusts should be driven by genuine philanthropic intent—not just tax avoidance—while still acknowledging their powerful financial benefits when used correctly. The core message is simple but urgent: act now, not later. Through VastSolutionsGroup.com and the newly merged Vast Asset Defense team, Kenner offers a true one-stop shop—integrating tax strategy, finance, AI, asset protection, and estate planning under one roof. Takeaways• Estate planning is essential for everyone, especially as we age.• The goals of estate planning include minimizing confusion and taxes.• Wills do not avoid probate and can expose assets to public scrutiny.• Regular updates to estate plans are crucial, ideally every three to five years.• Trusts can provide significant tax benefits and protect assets.• Estate taxes can significantly impact the distribution of wealth.• Life insurance plays a vital role in estate planning and tax reduction.• Choosing beneficiaries requires careful consideration to avoid complications.• Planning early can optimize the amount passed to heirs.• Consulting with professionals is key to effective estate planning.Sound Bites• Do estate planning before it's too late.• A will cannot avoid probate.• Choosing beneficiaries can be tricky.Listen & Subscribe for More:
Jason Hackett (former McKinsey, marketing + customer experience expert) joins R. Kenner French for a fast, no-fluff conversation on how to grow a business by focusing less on the business owner and more on the customer. His #1 advice for solopreneurs and big companies: remove ego from the equation. Treat the customer as the real boss, and lead with what can be given—value first—before expecting anything in return.They connect this idea to Kenner's community at VastSolutionsGroup.com. Jason explains that a community's business upside should be treated as a dividend, not the main goal. The main goal must be consistent value delivery—useful information, real help, and a reason for members to keep showing up. The takeaway: stop trying to “extract” from the community and start building something people would gladly stay in because it genuinely helps them.When Kenner asks how to boost engagement (since the community is still new and quiet), Jason offers three practical plays: (1) create “tentpole” events that pull attention (big-name guests, even if not scalable), (2) run meaningful AMAs on high-interest topics (tax strategies, AI infrastructure, business-building questions), and (3) the most scalable option—let community members lead. Community is not one-to-many broadcasting; it's peer-to-peer. Bring members in to share, teach, and answer questions so the group becomes a real resource network.They also talk about marketing for real estate agents and why “property features” aren't the real message—real estate is an enabler, not the end goal. For commercial, agents should focus on the client's business outcomes and how real estate strategy can minimize costs and prevent the “biggest albatross” on the P&L from crushing a business. For residential, it's about lifestyle fit—helping families choose what supports real life goals, not just the biggest house or the flashiest location.The conversation shifts to SEO vs. AEO (Ask Engine Optimization). AEO is framed as the natural evolution as people move from search boxes to asking nuanced questions in ChatGPT/Claude/Perplexity. The warning: don't abandon SEO overnight—build the AEO muscle gradually, measure results, and scale it over time. The clean framework they land on is simple and memorable: Social media gets attention, community turns attention into intention, and live events convert intention into execution and retention.Takeaways•Take the 'I' out of the equation; focus on the customer.• Community engagement should be about adding value.• Real estate should be viewed as an enabling function.• Building connections within a community is vital.• Social media is essential for gaining attention.• Live events are crucial for converting interest into action.• Transparency in collaboration fosters trust among agents.• AEO is the future of digital marketing.• Business owners should allocate time to learn new marketing strategies.• Attention is the new currency in business.Sound Bites• Real estate is an enabling function.• The new currency is attention.• Social media gets your attention.Listen & Subscribe for More:
Cost segregation is one of the most powerful yet misunderstood tax strategies available to real estate investors today. In this presentation, R. Kenner French explains how cost segregation and bonus depreciation allow investors to legally lower their tax liability by accelerating depreciation on certain components of a property. Instead of spreading deductions over decades, investors can unlock significant tax savings earlier—often creating immediate cash-flow benefits.Using a simple and memorable analogy, Kenner explains depreciation as the government recognizing that some assets lose value faster than others. When value declines quickly, the IRS allows larger deductions sooner, effectively returning money to the property owner in the form of reduced taxes. This same concept applies to real estate assets when components like appliances, machinery, and certain building elements are reclassified through a cost segregation study.The presentation emphasizes that cost segregation is not a standalone tactic but a strategic part of a comprehensive tax plan. When used correctly and aligned with forward-looking tax projections, it can dramatically improve financial performance for both residential and commercial real estate investors. However, when applied incorrectly or without coordination with an overall tax strategy, it can create inefficiencies or missed opportunities.Kenner also highlights how artificial intelligence is transforming cost segregation and tax planning. By leveraging AI-driven models, firms can improve accuracy, reduce costs, and identify depreciable assets more efficiently. This technological edge allows for better projections, faster analysis, and greater accessibility for investors who want smarter, data-driven tax solutions rather than reactive, backward-looking tax preparation.Ultimately, cost segregation is presented as a proactive wealth-building tool—not just a tax deduction. When paired with experienced professionals, proper documentation, and modern technology, it can help investors reduce their largest expense—taxes—while reinvesting savings into future growth. For real estate investors focused on long-term strategy, cost segregation remains one of the most effective legal methods to optimize cash flow and financial outcomes.Takeaways• Cost segregation studies can significantly lower tax liabilities for real estate investors.• Understanding depreciation is crucial for maximizing tax benefits.• Proactive tax planning is essential to avoid unexpected liabilities.• Choosing the right cost segregation advisor can impact financial outcomes.• Artificial intelligence is transforming tax planning and cost segregation processes.• Residential investors can also benefit from cost segregation strategies.• Documentation and proper asset classification are vital for successful cost segregation.• Tax policies and compliance requirements are constantly evolving.• Cost segregation should be integrated into an overall tax strategy.• Investors should be aware of potential pitfalls in cost segregation studies.Sound Bites• Cost segregation is a powerful tool.• You have to do proactive planning.• Cost seg is strategic tax planning.Listen & Subscribe for More:
Most entrepreneurs focus on sales, ads, and hustle—but overlook one of the biggest growth accelerators: press and authority positioning. In this episode, We break down how media exposure helps businesses cut through noise, build instant credibility, and attract better clients without harder selling.Jeremy Knauff explains why authority status is the real shortcut in business. When people see you featured in trusted media outlets, they assume you've been vetted, validated, and proven. That third-party validation removes skepticism and shortens the sales cycle—people trust you before they ever talk to you.The conversation dives into practical strategies entrepreneurs can use right now, from leveraging Google reviews and LinkedIn recommendations to building engaged social media ecosystems that journalists actually respect. It's not about follower count—it's about visibility, legitimacy, and engagement that compounds.One standout story shows the real power of PR: a company that fell from eight figures in revenue to $350K—and then rebounded to over $8 million. The turnaround didn't come from ads or gimmicks. It came from strategic press, positioning the CEO as an industry authority, and rebuilding trust at scale.Finally, the episode tackles modern PR in the age of AI and LLMs. Press releases still matter—but only when paired with smart journalist outreach and positioning. Media exposure today doesn't just help with Google—it helps you show up in ChatGPT, Perplexity, and AI search. Bottom line: if you want growth, credibility, and long-term visibility, press isn't optional—it's leverage.Takeaways• Expanding your business can significantly benefit from press exposure.• Being featured in reputable media outlets builds authority and credibility.• Third-party validation is crucial for establishing trust with potential clients.• A strong personal brand is essential for media visibility.• Public relations can dramatically transform a business's revenue and reputation.• Press releases, when used effectively, can yield high ROI.• Follow-up is key to maximizing the impact of press releases.• Television appearances can enhance personal connection and credibility.• Innovative tools can help businesses leverage trending topics for marketing.• Affordable community resources can provide valuable marketing education.Sound Bites• You want to expand your business?• You have to do the follow-up.• You can use it to create pitches.Listen & Subscribe for More:
This conversation is an estate-planning primer framed specifically for entrepreneurs and real estate investors who don't want to spend decades building wealth—only to lose it to avoidable taxes, probate delays, legal fees, and family conflict. R. Kenner French introduces attorney Robert J. Bluhm (Asset Defense Team) as a partner resource under the broader VAST umbrella, positioning estate planning as a core pillar of “asset protection” alongside lawsuit protection and tax reduction. The central theme is that estate planning is not a “later” problem—it's a “now” decision that protects your family, your privacy, and your legacy.Bob explains that estate planning mainly solves two problems: estate taxes and probate. While federal estate tax exemptions are high for many people, he emphasizes that exemptions can change with laws and time—and some states impose their own estate or inheritance taxes with much lower exemption amounts. Because no one knows what the exemption will be when they pass away, he encourages at least considering tax exposure, especially for higher-net-worth families and business owners. A major portion focuses on probate, which he defines as a court-supervised process that inventories assets, notifies creditors, collects money owed to the estate, pays debts, and only then distributes what's left—often slowly and publicly. They highlight why probate is a nightmare for entrepreneurs: it can be expensive, time-consuming, public, contestable, and even worse if you own property in multiple states. Bob shares real-world examples of probate harm—like an inheritor stuck for years because title couldn't transfer, while the asset physically deteriorated—and Kenner adds an example of a large estate still tied up for years with much of the money going to attorneys instead of heirs.The “solution” emphasized is the revocable living trust, which avoids probate, keeps things private, and allows faster and more controlled distribution. They explain how trusts can include protective rules—like staged distributions by age, restrictions for heirs struggling with addiction, and creditor protection via spendthrift provisions—so inheritance doesn't become a burden or a target. Finally, Bob outlines their service model and pricing: they send a questionnaire, draft an initial trust package, guide clients on what to review, and refine it over several calls . They say they can work with clients regardless of state , and recommend reviewing plans periodically—especially after major life events . The closing message is emotional and practical: estate planning is “planning that becomes protecting”—an act of love that reduces stress, creates clarity, avoids court battles, and ensures your family receives what you intended with minimal friction and maximum privacy.TakeawaysEstate planning is essential to protect your assets.Probate can be costly and time-consuming.A revocable living trust can help avoid probate.Designating a guardian for minor children is crucial.Estate planning provides peace of mind for families.You can control how and when your heirs receive assets.Regularly reviewing your estate plan is important.Digital assets need to be included in your estate plan.Engaging with professionals can simplify the estate planning process.Sound BitesA revocable living trust avoids probate.Probate can be lengthy and expensive.Peace of mind is invaluable.Listen & Subscribe for More:
R. Kenner French sits down with Mark Stubler, leader of Joe Homebuyer, often recognized as the number one cash home buyer network in the United States. Mark shares that the company's success is not just about buying homes, but about building world-class leaders. While the scale of their real estate operations is impressive, he emphasizes that true growth comes from developing people first — with business success becoming the natural byproduct.Mark explains that Joe Homebuyer's framework centers on internal strategy before external strategy. While skills, techniques, and real estate knowledge are important, he believes sustainable success starts with mindset, personal development, and leadership. Drawing parallels to elite sports coaching, Mark highlights that energy, effort, and long-term performance must come from within — something they intentionally cultivate among their franchisees.The ideal Joe Homebuyer franchisee, according to Mark, is an experienced real estate investor or solopreneur who wants structure, community, and scalable systems. Franchisees gain access to proven marketing and sales frameworks, lead generation systems, acquisition and disposition strategies, and multiple exit options — from wholesaling and rentals to creative finance. This support helps investors break through ceilings they often hit when operating alone.A major differentiator for Joe Homebuyer is its community-driven franchise model. Franchisees are supported by success coaches, regional groups, and tiered masterminds that encourage collaboration instead of competition. Mark stresses that entrepreneurship can be isolating, and having a trusted network accelerates growth, improves decision-making, and keeps investors aligned with long-term goals rather than short-term wins.In closing, Mark underscores that the ultimate purpose of wealth and business success is impact and influence. Through initiatives like Joe Cares and a strong emphasis on leadership development, the company encourages franchisees to grow not just financially, but personally and professionally. The conversation reinforces the idea that real fulfillment in business comes from service, growth, and creating meaningful change — both in communities and in the lives of others.Takeaways• Emphasizes the importance of ambition in business.• Building world-class leaders is a key focus for their franchise.• Community support among franchisees enhances success.• Effective marketing and sales strategies are crucial for real estate success.• Acquisition involves providing value to sellers.• Personal development is essential for lasting leadership.• The journey of impact and influence is vital in business.• Franchisees receive ongoing support and training.• The onboarding process is immediate and tailored to individual needs.• Success stories highlight the transformative power of community and collaboration.Sound Bites• We're just crazy ambitious.• You got to get the phone to ring.• We help communities give back.• Our impact is really pretty minute.• Real enjoyment comes from impact.Listen & Subscribe for More:
R. Kenner French shares practical, real-world guidance on how small business owners can begin using artificial intelligence—even without a large budget or technical background. The discussion is sparked by a conversation with a client who runs a lean business with no employees and only a contractor overseas, yet wants to strategically deploy AI to grow and stay competitive. Kenner emphasizes that AI adoption is no longer optional and that starting small, consistently, and intentionally can produce meaningful results over time.At a foundational level, Kenner recommends dedicating at least one hour per day to learning and using AI. This investment doesn't need to be complex or expensive—it could involve the business owner or a virtual assistant experimenting with tools like ChatGPT to support daily operations. To reinforce accountability and leadership, he suggests organizing a local AI meetup, where the business owner leads discussions within their industry. This not only forces deeper learning but positions the individual as a local authority on AI, expanding influence, visibility, and professional credibility.Kenner also encourages business owners to engage with the broader AI ecosystem by attending industry conferences such as AI4 or similar events. With consistent learning—approximately 20 hours per month—a small business owner can quickly outpace many so-called “experts” in the field. These events create opportunities to network, collaborate, and potentially even speak on panels in the future. Kenner underscores that Vast Solutions Group's expertise in AI is built on years of hands-on experience, dating back to their proprietary AI model, Einstein, launched in 2018.On the practical side, Kenner advises using AI tools—starting with ChatGPT Plus—for decision-making across the business. By building a strong knowledge base that reflects the company's history, goals, and constraints, business owners can ask AI for strategic input on marketing, operations, sales, and growth. He also highlights the value of client-facing AI tools, such as chatbots and specialized GPTs for marketing, sales, HR, or customer service, which can improve responsiveness and efficiency without adding staff.Ultimately, Kenner delivers a clear warning and opportunity: businesses that fail to adopt AI will struggle, not because AI replaces them directly, but because competitors who use AI will move faster, smarter, and more efficiently. AI tools are affordable, increasingly powerful, and accessible to nearly any business owner willing to invest time and curiosity. He concludes by encouraging listeners to leverage resources, including their website, community, and weekly AI-focused podcast segments, to stay ahead in an AI-driven business landscape.Takeaways• Spend at least one hour a day on AI.• Engage with your community through AI discussions.• Attend AI conferences to network and learn.• Use AI for decision-making in your business.• Implement a chatbot to enhance customer interaction.• AI is essential for staying competitive in business.• Invest time in learning about AI technologies.• AI tools are becoming more affordable.• Join community resources for ongoing AI education.• Position yourself as an industry leader through AI knowledge.Sound Bites• Spend at least one hour a day on AI.• AI models are getting cheaper over time.• Invest time in learning about AI.Listen & Subscribe for More:
R. Kenner French introduces a major discussion around the newly passed tax bill and its significant implications for business owners, particularly those within the Vast Vault and Vast Solutions Group community. He emphasizes that this legislation presents a major opportunity for entrepreneurs to legally, ethically, and strategically reduce their tax liabilities—especially those leveraging innovation and artificial intelligence in their businesses. With decades of experience in tax strategy, finance, and AI-driven solutions, Kenner frames the conversation as a practical, “quick and dirty” breakdown aimed at helping business owners save real money.A central focus of the presentation is the expanded and simplified access to Research & Development (R&D) tax credits at both the federal and state levels. The new tax bill broadens eligibility, making it easier for more entrepreneurs—particularly those using tools like ChatGPT, Gemini, or other AI platforms—to qualify. Kenner stresses that many business owners are unknowingly leaving money on the table, even though tax credits are often more powerful than deductions due to their dollar-for-dollar impact. He encourages business owners to assess their eligibility through resources like TaxCreditIntel.com and to seek knowledgeable advisors if their current tax professionals are unfamiliar with R&D credits.The return of 100% bonus depreciation is also highlighted as a major win for business owners. Under the new rules, qualifying assets can be fully depreciated in the year they are placed into service, rather than over several years. This expanded depreciation benefit applies to a broader range of assets, making it particularly valuable for entrepreneurs making large equipment or vehicle purchases. Kenner notes that when paired with Section 179 deductions, these tools allow business owners to accelerate deductions and strategically reduce taxable income in high-liability years.Beyond individual tax provisions, Kenner underscores the broader value of being part of the Vast Vault community. He encourages members to actively use the available resources—ranging from tax strategy and asset protection to estate planning, deal funding, and high-net-worth networking. Ultimately, Kenner concludes that while the full impact of the tax bill will unfold over time, it is clearly a positive development for business owners—especially those embracing innovation, AI, and strategic planning to build long-term wealth and reduce taxes responsibly.Takeaways• The new tax bill offers significant savings for business owners.• R&D tax credits are now more accessible than ever.• Immediate expensing allows businesses to save on taxes sooner.• Bonus depreciation enables full deduction of asset purchases in the year of service.• Simplified accounting regulations will ease the burden on small businesses.• Engaging with tax providers is crucial for maximizing benefits.• Artificial intelligence can aid in tax planning and liability reduction.• The community at Vass Solutions Group provides valuable resources for business owners.• Understanding the tax bill early can lead to better financial planning.• Overall, the new tax bill is favorable for business owners.Sound Bites• This is big.• It's a huge deal.• We're here to help you.Listen & Subscribe for More:
The conversation features R. Kenner French interviewing Jim MacLennan, a seasoned product strategist, consultant, and venture capital professional. The discussion centers on helping entrepreneurs and business owners put money in their pockets by improving how they communicate their ideas, especially when pitching to investors, partners, or customers. Jim emphasizes that many founders fail not because of bad ideas, but because they tell their story the wrong way—often leading with the least compelling part of their business instead of what truly creates value.Drawing from his background in corporate IT, consulting, venture capital, and product strategy, Jim explains that one of the biggest mistakes founders make is falling in love with their product rather than validating it with customers. He stresses the importance of understanding the customer's real needs and confirming that the product will actually sell before aggressively seeking funding. Instead, Jim advocates for focused, incremental growth—such as hiring one salesperson and proving traction before scaling.The conversation then shifts to operating businesses and solopreneurs looking to take their companies to the next level. Jim highlights that growth requires different conversations depending on the audience—investors, partners, or distribution channels all care about different things. Entrepreneurs must tailor their message to match the “currency” of their audience, whether that is scalability, revenue potential, or strategic fit. Successful growth depends on understanding who you're talking to and aligning your story with their priorities rather than leading with your own agenda.Jim also shares the personal motivation behind launching his own purpose-driven community and venture initiative, Talking Tree Ventures. Inspired by his desire to make a better world for his grandchildren, he chose to focus on forestry, forest restoration, and fire management—an underfunded but impactful niche within sustainability. By combining his digital technology and business expertise with environmental impact, Jim aims to build a community of entrepreneurs and investors and eventually launch a venture fund focused on direct impact investments in this space.Finally, Jim introduces an upcoming offering called the Impact Planner, a structured financial and strategic framework designed to help founders clearly articulate their business story through a realistic three-to-five-year P&L projection. The process not only strengthens investor pitches but also improves internal clarity around growth, costs, and execution. The episode concludes with contact details and a reminder that strong storytelling, focused strategy, and aligned purpose are key drivers of entrepreneurial success.Takeaways• Storytelling is crucial for effective pitches.• Understanding your customer is key to success.• Avoid leading with your product; focus on the audience's needs.• Building a community can provide purpose and direction.• Leverage technology and AI to enhance business operations.• Niche down your focus for greater impact.• Utilize platforms like LinkedIn for community building.• Feedback is essential for refining new tools and strategies.• Engagement with investors requires clear communication of value.Sound Bites• It's all about storytelling.• It's all tip of the pencil.• AI is force multiplying.• Free is a good word.Listen & Subscribe for More:
R. Kenner French opens the presentation by addressing how many real estate entrepreneurs feel unorganized and overwhelmed by bookkeeping. He explains that proper bookkeeping is a foundation for wealth, not a boring task to avoid. He introduces VastSolutionsGroup.com, a Vast Asset Defense company combining tax, AI, and asset protection expertise. Kenner shares his background as a three-time author and long-time manager to establish credibility.He highlights the importance of bookkeeping basics, especially for real estate agents and investors who make up 93% of their clients. Clean books improve financial clarity, tax preparation, and rate-of-return analysis. Proper expense management helps investors decide whether to keep or exit certain deals. Bookkeeping also supports asset protection and enhances business structure.The first major tip is keeping business and personal finances completely separate. Separate accounts and credit cards protect business owners from lawsuits and strengthen legal barriers between assets. Real estate investors are often targeted, so separation is essential for liability defense. Mixing funds makes it easier for plaintiffs to attack all assets in a legal dispute.Kenner then emphasizes tracking expenses diligently and using bookkeeping software instead of manual methods. He introduces VastBookie.ai, an AI tool that automates expense categorization and reconciliation. Many clients save money because AI replaces or reduces the need for bookkeepers. Regardless of the software chosen, automation improves accuracy and saves valuable time.The final tips include maintaining organized digital records and reviewing books regularly. Cloud storage, labeled folders, and consistent backups ensure data is never lost. Monthly or quarterly reviews help owners spot trends and make smarter decisions. Kenner concludes by reminding viewers that bookkeeping is the financial foundation of their wealth and invites them to explore resources at VastSolutionsGroup.com.Takeaways• Bookkeeping is essential for business success.• Separate personal and business finances to lower liability.• Diligently track expenses for better asset protection.• Utilize bookkeeping software to save time and money.• Maintain organized records for easier access and review.• Review financial records regularly to identify trends.• Good bookkeeping supports efficient tax preparation.• Organized bookkeeping enhances overall business management.• Investors should prioritize bookkeeping as a foundation.• Utilizing technology can simplify bookkeeping tasks.Sound Bites• Review your books on a quarterly basis.• You'll be glad you're organized.Listen & Subscribe for More:
R. Kenner French sits down with business strategist Laurel Pendle to talk about what really makes small businesses thrive—especially solopreneurs, real estate investors, and service-based owners. Right away, Laurel emphasizes that before any big leap, you need a clear strategy and the right leadership mindset. She shares a case study about a healthcare company that was scaling too fast without structure; by helping them clarify their internal systems, focus on the right clients, and implement relationship marketing, she helped them stop chasing the wrong accounts and double down on the ones that truly drove profit.Laurel explains that her work spans the full business life cycle: from executives leaving the W-2 world and turning passion projects into real businesses, to growth-stage companies trying to scale, all the way to owners planning their exit or legacy handoff. She pushes owners to define their goals, understand their competitors, and build a real business and marketing plan before chasing investors or throwing money at ads. For her, success isn't just about revenue—it's about building a sustainable, values-driven company that serves clients, employees, and community.They also dive into relationship-based marketing and the power of genuine connection. Laurel and Kenner agree that too many people treat prospects like numbers and push a pitch in the first five seconds after connecting online. Laurel's approach is the opposite: build trust, study what others are doing, look for collaboration, and let relationships drive business—not cold selling. She underscores that a website without SEO, content, and cross-promotion is just an expensive ghost town.Finally, the two talk about AI, business automation, and Laurel's work as a contributing author in The Art of Connection book series. She considers herself an early adopter of technology and uses AI heavily for efficiency, analysis, and admin, but insists it can't replace human leadership, strategy, or authentic voice—especially for things like book writing. Her contributions to The Art of Connection focus on abundance, gratitude, and heart-centered leadership, and the project itself has become both an international bestseller and a curated community of like-minded business owners. Laurel closes by circling back to her core message: when you align profit with purpose, prioritize human connection, and pair that with solid strategy and smart use of tools like AI, you don't just grow a business—you build a legacy.Takeaways• Having a strategy before you leap is essential in business.• Mindset for leadership is crucial for business success.• Outsourcing can help small business owners focus on growth.• Aligning profits with purpose is key to sustainable success.• Marketing should be consistent and targeted to the right audience.• Human connection is vital for retaining employees and clients.• Technology and AI can enhance business operations but should not replace human interaction.• A compelling online presence is necessary for attracting clients.• Creating a legacy through business is important for long-term impact.• Leadership skills are essential for guiding teams and fostering collaboration.Sound Bites• Aligning profits with purpose is essential.• You can't be everything to everyone.• Don't jump into all those different platforms.Listen & Subscribe for More:
R. Kenner French and Liliana Falconer set the stage for a deep dive into multiple real estate sectors: multifamily, commercial finance, commercial properties, tiny homes, and hard money lending. Their shared excitement emphasizes that this event is designed to provide massive value to business owners, investors, and entrepreneurs who want real, practical knowledge they can apply.One of the most anticipated guests is Dr. Erin Hudson, known for pioneering tiny home investments using repurposed shipping containers. Kenner highlights how investors can buy these affordable units and generate significant cashflow, while Liliana shares her personal connection to tiny or mobile living through her own school bus–to–RV conversion years ago. Their exchange underscores the growing popularity and profitability of small-space living as a viable real estate strategy.The discussion praises Jake's combination of youth, hunger, and new ideas, backstopped by a legacy of expertise from his father. Liliana notes the powerful balance between a seasoned perspective and a fresh set of eyes—making his session valuable for both new and experienced investors looking to understand private lending options that many never explore.The expo also features veteran financier Harvey Goldberg, described as a pioneer in commercial finance who excels at simplifying complex topics like CMBS, bridge loans, and life insurance–based lending. Liliana stresses that attendees should actively use the chat to ask questions during his talk. Following Harvey is Keith Andrews, an expert at uncovering “hidden” commercial properties that aren't publicly listed. Kenner explains that expanding the deal universe—say from 100 to 150 properties—dramatically increases the odds of finding superior investments, and Keith reveals exactly how to do that.Kenner and Liliana wrap the introduction by reminding attendees that this expo isn't just about information—it's about community. Vast Solutions Group offers a network of entrepreneurs, solopreneurs, and investors who can support each other, especially those who often feel isolated in business. They encourage participants to submit questions, engage in the chat, and take advantage of the expertise being shared. The message is simple: buckle up, absorb as much as possible, and know that VastSolutionsGroup.com is here to help entrepreneurs grow smarter, stronger, and more connected.Takeaways• This is the greatest webinar of all time.• The Vast Cast is packed with valuable information.• Tiny homes can be profitable investments.• Hard money loans are available for commercial properties.• There are private money options for financing.• Understanding commercial property financing is crucial.• Expert speakers will provide valuable insights.• Hidden commercial real estate opportunities exist.• Community support is vital for entrepreneurs.• Get ready to absorb a lot of information.Sound Bites• makes them really easy• tremendous value• we're here for youListen & Subscribe for More:
R. Kenner French of VastSolutionsGroup.com introduces a comprehensive presentation on asset protection, tax mitigation, and estate planning for real estate investors. The company, founded in 1969, specializes in tax, finance, AI-driven strategies, and real estate-focused planning. Kenner emphasizes that most of their clients are real estate investors seeking to lower tax liability, protect assets, and structure their financial world more intelligently.Kenner stresses that what you keep matters more than what you make, and most investors lose unnecessary money to taxes due to poor planning. Strategies include maximizing deductions, projecting tax liability before year-end, deferring income using tools like 453A, and leveraging tax-advantaged accounts such as SEPs and Solo 401(k)s. VastSolutionsGroup.com uses its own AI model “Einstein” to analyze tax scenarios, reduce liabilities, and stay ahead of rapidly changing federal and state tax regulations.He highlights the importance of wills, trusts, and early estate planning to ensure smooth transitions, minimize estate taxes, and avoid family conflict. Proper planning protects heirs, safeguards wealth, and prevents assets from being lost due to lawsuits, probate complications, or poor documentation. Kenner shares personal reflections about wanting his family to be protected and underscores how early trust planning can save beneficiaries significant taxes and emotional strain.The presentation closes by outlining the company's unique blend of artificial intelligence, real estate expertise, financing capabilities, and national reach. With tools like the VastBookie.ai free bookkeeping system, AI-driven tax strategies, customized planning, and the Vast Vault community, the firm offers end-to-end support for investors. Their “Vast Cares” service model ensures responsiveness and guidance for business owners seeking to scale safely and strategically.Takeaways• Asset protection is crucial for real estate investors to limit liability.• A well-structured asset protection plan makes it harder for lawsuits to succeed.• Diversification is a key principle in effective asset protection.• Maximizing deductions can significantly impact take-home income.• Proactive tax planning can help investors manage their liabilities better.• Understanding tax regulations is essential for real estate investors.• Wills and trusts are important for effective estate planning.• Estate planning should be done early to avoid complications later.• Leveraging technology can enhance asset protection and tax strategies.• Consulting with professionals is vital for tailored financial planning.Sound Bites• You're in the right place.• Maximize your deductions.• The quicker you do it, the better off you are.Listen & Subscribe for More:
The interview opens with R. Kenner French introducing Mark Miller—known as “The Money Man”—a veteran business financial consultant who began his career with IDS American Express. Over the years, Mark built deep relationships within the institutional or “smart money” side of finance, eventually partnering with Brad Hilton, grandson of Conrad Hilton, to form Hilton Tax and Wealth Advisors. Their mission: bring advanced wealth-building strategies typically reserved for the ultra-wealthy down to Main Street investors.Mark explains the history of the family office, a concept that began with the Rockefellers as a way to unify advisors and centralize wealth management. Over time, family offices evolved into multi-family offices and, now, virtual family offices, which outsource top talent rather than hiring a large internal staff. This approach allows wealthy families—typically those with $20M+ net worth—to access the best attorneys, CPAs, tax strategists, and financial minds regardless of geography. Technology such as Zoom and AI further enhances this model.A major issue Mark highlights is the chaos that occurs when clients work with multiple advisors who don't communicate—or worse, argue with each other. The family office model solves this by ensuring every professional works as one cohesive team toward the client's goals. The discussion then shifts to the three biggest challenges families face inside a family office: hiring the right people, succession planning, and tax mitigation. Mark emphasizes the growing importance of involving spouses and younger heirs early so that transitions don't create conflict. Both he and Kenner agree communication—not just among advisors, but between family members—is the biggest determinant of long-term success.Finally, Mark identifies advanced tax mitigation as perhaps the most powerful wealth accelerator. Many wealthy families legally reach zero-tax brackets by using sophisticated strategies most people never hear about. Creating a formalized tax plan—side-by-side with one's business and life plan—is essential. The conversation closes with Mark stressing that the wealthiest prioritize safety first, building a strong foundation before seeking returns. He invites listeners to connect via HiltonWealth.com or read his book Hilton Wealth: How to Invest Like an American Dynasty to learn these strategies firsthand.Takeaways• Mark Miller is a financial consultant with extensive experience in wealth management.• Family offices originated from the Rockefellers to streamline financial management.• Virtual family offices offer access to top-tier financial advisors regardless of location.• Succession planning is a complex process that requires good communication among family members.• Tax mitigation is crucial for wealth building and can save significant amounts of money.• Advanced tax strategies are often inaccessible to those outside of family offices.• AI can enhance efficiency in financial consulting and decision-making.• Involving spouses in financial discussions is essential for cohesive family planning.• The wealthiest individuals prioritize safety in their investment strategies.• Access to advanced financial strategies should be made available to a broader audience.Sound Bites• Succession planning is very complex.• We need your spouse involved. It only makes sense.• There's got to be something more in tax mitigation.Listen & Subscribe for More:
R. Kenner French from VastSolutionsGroup.com hosts a session to welcome clients to their registered agent services and explain why this “small” detail is actually a critical part of asset protection, especially for real estate investors and entrepreneurs. He shares a bit of the firm's history (founded in 1969, he joined in 2006) and emphasizes their focus on tax, finance, and artificial intelligence for entrepreneurs. It's operates in nearly every state through partnerships and offices, allowing clients to use their addresses and stay compliant while protecting their assets.He explains what a registered agent is in very simple terms: it's the party that “stands up for the company.” A registered agent receives legal, state, and federal notices on behalf of the business, maintains a compliant address, and helps prevent lapses that could expose the owner to lawsuits. Kenner stresses that failure to maintain a proper registered agent can lead to piercing the corporate veil—meaning litigants can reach not only that LLC's assets but potentially other entities and personal assets. Their service also provides anonymity, a physical business mailbox, and help with managing important documents and notices.Kenner then introduces the broader VastSolutionsGroup.com team and ecosystem. They work alongside attorneys like Bob Bluhm and the Asset Defense Team. He highlights their private “Einstein” system and the Vast Vault community, a paid membership that gives entrepreneurs access to expert content, daily audios, collaboration, and resources from high-profile figures. The community is meant to give solopreneurs and real estate investors a place to learn strategies, share experiences, and stay on the cutting edge of tax, finance, and AI.Throughout the Q&A, Kenner answers practical questions: why you usually shouldn't be your own registered agent, what happens if you don't pay and service lapses, and how RA fees typically range. He also touches on asset protection structure—such as the idea of using one LLC per property to silo risk, while reminding everyone to confirm their specific structure with their own attorney or with their partners at Asset Defense Team.Finally, Kenner outlines additional services offered: tax strategy, tax preparation, bookkeeping, real estate and business financing through relationships with hundreds of banks, AI and business automation, qualified plans, 401(k)/IRA rollovers into real estate-focused structures, and defined benefit plans for significant tax savings. Takeaways• Registered agent services are crucial for asset protection.• A lapse in registered agent service can lead to significant losses.• The Vast Vault community offers valuable resources for entrepreneurs.• Properly structured LLCs can help protect assets from lawsuits.• Tax strategies can significantly reduce financial burdens.• Collaboration within the community enhances business success.• Anonymity provided by registered agents protects personal assets.• Compliance with state regulations is essential for business integrity.• Expert advice is available for navigating complex financial situations.• Continuous improvement based on client feedback drives service excellence.Sound Bites• It's a huge pleasure to be here.• Your registered agent represents your business.• Don't let a lapse in service cost you everything.Listen & Subscribe for More:
The episode features R. Kenner French interviewing Mickie Kennedy, founder of eReleases, about why press releases are one of the most underrated, high-ROI tools for entrepreneurs. Mickie shares how he started in 1998 by shifting from faxing press releases to emailing them when journalists began asking for email delivery. Over time, PR Newswire noticed eReleases' focus on small businesses, startups, authors, and speakers—people traditional PR sales teams ignored because of their smaller budgets. This led to a partnership that allows Mickie's clients to access national distribution over PR Newswire at a fraction of the usual $1,700+ cost.A major theme is that not all press releases are created equal. Mickie emphasizes that only about 3% of releases generate real “earned media” (unique articles written by journalists). The mistake many people make is using AI not just to write their press release, but to decide what the release should be about—leading to generic, unnewsworthy topics. Instead, Mickie urges entrepreneurs to think like journalists: focus on what is truly newsworthy, look for contrarian angles, and build stories rather than feature lists. Adding a compelling use case, meaningful data points, and strong quotes can turn a dry announcement into a story journalists want to tell.Mickie also explains how PR supports SEO and long-term brand positioning. Even when links are “nofollow,” Google can infer authority when respected outlets mention a company, and clients often see their search rankings spike after major coverage. Beyond rankings, customers who discover a business through an article tend to be higher quality and more loyal, because a journalist's coverage acts as a trust signal rather than a sales pitch. Reusing that coverage—on websites, social media, newsletters, and sales funnels—can boost conversions and even reduce churn because existing customers feel reassured they're with a credible, forward-moving company.Finally, Mickie talks about becoming a thought leader through consistent PR and smart media relationships. He highlights Clutch.co as a standout case study: by running frequent, well-designed industry surveys and issuing press releases around them, they earned coverage across many verticals, built massive authority, and eventually became the go-to expert that media outlets proactively contact. The big takeaway: entrepreneurs who treat PR as a strategic, story-driven, long-term channel—not a one-off tactic—can unlock outsized visibility, credibility, and business value compared to relying on paid ads alone.Takeaways• Press releases are a cost-effective way to gain media exposure.• The ROI on press releases can be significantly high.• Crafting a compelling story is crucial for effective press releases.• Journalists prefer unique stories over generic press releases.• SEO benefits from media coverage can be substantial.• Regular press releases can position a business as a thought leader.• Using data and case studies can enhance press release effectiveness.• Building relationships with local journalists can lead to more coverage.• Press releases should focus on newsworthy events and milestones.• AI can assist in writing, but human insight is essential for impactful content.Sound Bites• You want to make lots of money?• Journalists rely on the newswire even more.• Put yourself in their shoes.Listen & Subscribe for More:
R. Kenner French opens the conversation with a strong warning to business owners: if they ignore AI, their business could “die.” He explains that many people think they “kind of” use AI, but very few truly implement it deeply into their operations. At VastSolutionsGroup.com, their mission is to help entrepreneurs, solopreneurs, and professionals actually deploy AI in practical ways—especially through their webinar and funnel platform, VastCast. To support this, he introduces Ben Polley, their in-house AI specialist, who helps business owners bring AI into real workflows.Ben emphasizes that AI is evolving extremely fast and that what we see today will look very different in a year. Because of this, staying “up to date” is no longer optional—it's survival. He explains that AI is now a core component of business competitiveness, even if companies don't openly admit how much they rely on it. Using VastCast as an example, Ben describes how businesses can use AI not just to host webinars, but also to inform, nurture, and support customers automatically—answering questions and providing information without the business owner needing to be present live.Both Kenner and Ben highlight how AI changes the old rules around expertise and education. In the past, you needed formal degrees and years of experience to create value. Today, knowing how to ask the right questions to AI and how to implement the answers can be just as powerful. Ben admits he knows how to code, but says he now lets AI write and automate most of the work. The real skill, they argue, is no longer memorizing knowledge, but having a clear vision and the ability to direct AI toward that vision.They then tie this into specific business use cases, especially in real estate and professional services. With AI, you can automate lead funnels, rank which clients are most promising, streamline paperwork and deal flow, and even handle onboarding of new clients—turning a manual, slow process into an efficient, scalable system. The message: you can massively increase speed and capacity if you let AI handle repetitive and process-driven tasks.Toward the end, Kenner tells the backstory of their own AI journey. Years ago they created an AI solution called “Einstein” to help reduce tax liabilities and support retirement planning for entrepreneurs and real estate investors. When OpenAI exploded onto the scene, it disrupted their lead—but also pushed them to evolve. Now they offer that same automation approach to other business owners. They close by inviting people to contact or call their office, or ask specifically for Ben if they want help implementing AI—stressing that the only real limit with AI is the limit of your own imagination and willingness to use it.Takeaways• AI is essential for business survival today.• Automation through AI can streamline operations.• Understanding AI tools is crucial for leveraging their benefits.• AI can enhance client onboarding processes.• The right questions can unlock AI's potential.• AI can automate marketing and social media tasks.• Real estate agents can benefit significantly from AI.• AI can help create and manage webinars effectively.• Staying updated on AI developments is vital for businesses.• AI's capabilities are limited only by our imagination.Sound Bites• AI is changing everything.• AI can do everything for you.• Stay ahead of the edge with AI.Listen & Subscribe for More:
In this episode of Vast Voice, R. Kenner French and Liliana Falconer dive into the essentials of tax planning for entrepreneurs. Lily comes in unaware of the topic, adding spontaneity to the discussion, while Kenner emphasizes that this quick episode is designed to deliver powerful insights in under three minutes. Their goal: help business owners understand why tax planning should never be an afterthought.They begin by highlighting a common truth—most people don't prioritize taxes until the last moment. Lily points out that many individuals scramble to gather receipts, while Kenner explains that this reactive approach almost always leads to higher tax liabilities. Waiting until April 15 leaves taxpayers with little flexibility to make useful changes. Simply put, last-minute filing often results in writing a larger check to the IRS.Kenner stresses that true tax reduction happens throughout the year, not at the deadline. Planning as early as January 1 allows entrepreneurs to structure strategies, adjust cash flow, review employee numbers, and evaluate past liabilities to project forward. Quarterly meetings with a tax professional can significantly reduce tax burdens by catching opportunities proactively rather than retroactively.The conversation also contrasts two types of tax professionals: those who “drive using the rear-view mirror” and those who look ahead. Lily summarizes the lesson perfectly with an analogy, entrepreneurs should “rip off their rear-view mirrors” and focus on the road ahead. Proactive tax planning removes obstacles before they become problems and ensures a smoother, more predictable financial journey.Kenner closes by reinforcing that entrepreneurs need advisors who plan forward. If a tax provider can't help you strategize before tax season, it may be time to find one who can. VastSolutionsGroup.com aims to add value by guiding entrepreneurs toward better decisions year-round. With that, Kenner and Lily wrap up another concise yet impactful episode on financial clarity and smarter tax planning.Takeaways• Most people fail to prioritize taxes until the last minute.• Tax planning works best when started on January 1, not April 15.• Proactive planning can significantly lower tax liability.• Quarterly meetings with a tax professional provide major advantages.• Tax professionals who only “look backward” limit your savings potential.• VastSolutionsGroup.com focuses on projecting forward, not reviewing the past.• Early planning allows adjustments in cash flow and employee numbers.• Entrepreneurs should remove obstacles early through strategic planning.• A good tax advisor should guide you all year—not just during filing season.• Forward-focused tax strategy leads to smoother finances and less stress.Sound Bites• Rip off your rear-view mirrors and look ahead.• We don't look backward; we project forward.• If your tax pro can't save you early, you've got issues.Listen & Subscribe for More:
Many people do not realize that defined benefit plans can really truly help entrepreneur to save a bunch of money for retirement, while also mitigating or lowering tax liability. These differ from 401(k) plans in that you get to put away huge amounts of money, and in many cases, that is a very very good thing.
R. Kenner French sits down with “coach of coaches” and real estate leader Eric Brewer to break down how entrepreneurs and investors can elevate their businesses, assets, and mindset. Kenner opens by asking Eric for one major piece of advice, and Eric reveals a shift that every entrepreneur must make: stop doing the work yourself and start developing the people who do the work. Scaling isn't about grinding harder—it's about building teams, processes, and leaders.Eric shares his personal journey, which didn't begin with big credentials. He was nearly a high school dropout, uninterested in college, and unsure of his direction. Joining the U.S. Army gave him structure, but when he returned home, he lacked civilian skills. He took a basic job parking cars at a dealership and worked his way into sales through discipline and consistency. He eventually became the #1 salesperson for 30 straight months before transitioning into mortgages, and later real estate, after a former boss invited him to partner in 2006. From there, they scaled quickly—flipping 70 houses their first year, then hundreds annually—eventually building one of the most active operations in their region.Eric describes how the 2008 crash shaped him. Real estate had felt easy in 2006, but when the market collapsed, many investors disappeared. Eric's team pushed forward, thanks to a liquid and fearless mentor. Buying during the downturn taught them lessons that would guide every future year. Eric emphasizes that the best real estate deals begin long before the purchase—they begin with strong systems.The conversation shifts to coaching. Eric and his partners are known as the “funnel fixers”, helping business owners repair broken sales pipelines. He shares a story of a company overwhelmed with low-quality leads, burned-out staff, and poor conversion. By eliminating bad leads and training the team properly, they cut their leads in half but doubled their income in 90 days. Eric's long-term mission is to teach entrepreneurs how to prevent funnel failures instead of reacting once revenue declines.Looking ahead, Eric shares the future for both sides of his business. Through RampREI, they provide sales training, leadership development, and “growth partner” arrangements where they operate key parts of a business—marketing, leadership, sales management—so entrepreneurs can focus on what they do best. On the real estate side, his company Integrity First Homebuyers plans to expand into 10 markets by 2027, targeting 1,000 annual deals and approximately $20 million in net profit. His message stays consistent: when you build people and systems, you build wealth, opportunity, and a meaningful life.Takeaways• In 2006, early challenges in real estate felt like a curse.• Overcoming challenges has made subsequent years easier.• The speaker has completed over 5,000 real estate deals.• The focus is on central PA, Pittsburgh, and Philadelphia markets.• Expansion into Baltimore has broadened market reach.• Each market has its unique characteristics and opportunities.• Learning from setbacks is crucial for growth.• Building a diverse portfolio is essential in real estate.• Networking and local knowledge are key to success.• Resilience in the face of adversity leads to long-term success.Sound BitesHome of the SteelersHome of the EaglesWe have a pretty broad reachListen & Subscribe for More:
In this session, R. Kenner French interviews Bob Bluhm—one of America's top asset protection attorneys—about how entrepreneurs can safeguard their wealth. Bob explains that business success requires both offense (making money) and defense (protecting money). Most entrepreneurs focus only on offense and end up vulnerable to lawsuits, taxes, and poor structuring—risks that can wipe out decades of hard work in a single legal battle.Bob begins by outlining the three pillars of asset protection: tax reduction, estate planning, and lawsuit protection. While tax and estate planning are crucial, the talk focuses on lawsuits—specifically how entities like LLCs, corporations, and partnerships can either protect you or fail you entirely. He highlights that LLCs are not created equal, and the state, structure, members, and documentation determine whether an LLC truly protects assets or collapses under legal scrutiny.He emphasizes privacy as the first line of defense, showing how privacy trusts, privacy LLCs, and land trusts make your wealth invisible to predators. Since plaintiff attorneys run asset searches to determine if suing you is worth it, appearing “broke on paper” dramatically reduces the chances of opportunistic or frivolous lawsuits. Privacy, in short, prevents you from becoming a target.The second line of defense is building a strong asset protection structure—using properly designed LLCs, holding companies, family limited partnerships, and sometimes land trusts. Bob stresses that real protection requires separating business and personal assets, avoiding single-member LLC weaknesses, never putting all properties in one LLC, and maintaining layered entities that frustrate plaintiff attorneys. A properly built structure often causes lawyers to drop the case entirely.Finally, the third line of defense is the corporate veil. Bob warns that in more than 50% of lawsuits, courts pierce the veil of weak LLCs—usually because of commingling funds, missing records, lack of minutes, missing agreements, or using cheap DIY templates. He explains that only well-documented, well-maintained, professionally structured entities hold up in court. Bob concludes by reminding entrepreneurs that true asset protection brings peace of mind, financial security, and freedom from fear—and he offers his team's help for anyone serious about safeguarding their wealth.Takeaways• Asset protection is crucial for safeguarding hard-earned wealth.• Lawsuit protection is a key component of asset protection.• Privacy is the first line of defense against frivolous lawsuits.• Not all LLCs provide the same level of protection.• Properly structured LLCs can lower taxes and protect assets.• The corporate veil is essential for shielding personal assets.• Maintaining separate records and accounts is vital to protect the corporate veil.• Frivolous lawsuits can happen to anyone, regardless of wrongdoing.• A strong defensive structure can deter potential lawsuits.• Consulting with a professional is essential for effective asset protection.Sound Bites• The first line of defense is privacy• You want to have enough privacy• All LLCs are not the sameListen & Subscribe for More:
The conversation centers on how niching down transformed both a law firm and a marketing agency into a highly scalable, efficient business. Anthony Karls, president of Rocket Clicks, explains that instead of serving “everyone,” they chose a very specific market: family law firms. That extreme focus gave them major advantages—clearer messaging, streamlined operations, easier hiring, and stronger culture. Rather than being a generalist agency working with all kinds of businesses, Rocket Clicks focuses almost entirely on helping family law practices grow.Anthony shares the origin story: their law firm originally launched as a general practice and grew quickly, but the results were mediocre. Customer service scores were average, the team didn't feel proud of the impact they were making, and the business felt scattered. Surprisingly, even in that transition year, revenue stayed at around $1.3M. After that, the power of the niche kicked in: the firm grew to roughly $3M, then $6M, then $9M in subsequent years, simply by getting very good at one thing and repeating the same playbook in more territories.From a marketing standpoint, Anthony emphasizes starting with organic traffic rather than jumping straight into paid ads. For a typical $2M family law firm living off referrals, he would first focus on local search: making sure the firm shows up in Google Maps and top organic listings. That starts with getting listed correctly in key data aggregators and building consistent NAP citations across the web.Once the organic foundation is solid and the intake team knows how to handle non-referral leads, then it makes sense to layer on paid ads.When it comes to paid advertising, Anthony says the real power comes from data feedback. Most firms only track phone calls and web form submissions, which produces a lot of junk leads and wasted spend. Rocket Clicks instead tracks leads all the way through the funnel to the “quote” or similar high-value stage, then sends that conversion data back to Google and Meta. That allows the ad platforms' AI to optimize toward the right kind of client, not just anyone who fills out a form. Finally, Anthony highlights two big underused levers: artificial intelligence and website performance. On the law firm side, they use AI agents to handle unanswered calls, collect intake details, and assist attorneys with inbox management. Fixing speed and mobile usability alone can significantly boost leads. Overall, the message is clear: niche down, build systems, respect your data, and treat your website and marketing as strategic assets if you want to grow from “just a job” into a scalable, valuable business.Takeaways• Niching down allows for more efficient messaging and operations.• Specialization can lead to significant business growth.• Investing in marketing is crucial for scaling a business.• Organic traffic should be prioritized before paid advertising.• Data infrastructure is essential for effective ad campaigns.• Social media content should be part of a comprehensive marketing strategy.• Website speed is a critical factor in lead generation.• Systems and processes create passive revenue opportunities.• Continuous learning and adaptation are key to business success.Sound Bites• Niching down gives you a bunch of advantages.• Systems equal passive revenue.• AI has changed the way we think about SEO.Listen & Subscribe for More:
R. Kenner French opens by talking about his book ModernMillions.ai, which is currently ranked #4 in Amazon's retirement planning category on Kindle. He shares how the book actually came from a 2015 AI presentation he did in Vegas, which he later cleaned up with the help of his team and AI tools. The surprising part: the ranking has been almost entirely organic—no big ad spend, no mass self-purchasing, just a small launch team, a press release that got picked up by AP, and word of mouth.Dhaval, a marketer with nearly 20 years of experience, explains that old tricks like buying $100,000 of your own book don't really work anymore because algorithms now favor authenticity. He highlights that AI is having its “dot-com boom” moment and that a serious, robust AI + finance/tax book is well-positioned to rank. He validates Kenner's approach of educating instead of gatekeeping, pointing out that most business owners want to understand the process—even if they'll still hire someone else to do the heavy lifting.The discussion then shifts to AI-powered bookkeeping and automation. Kenner shares that VastSolutionsGroup.com has built an AI model called Einstein and a platform called Vastbookke / Vast Bookie, offering free AI bookkeeping so business owners don't have to rely on QuickBooks or expensive bookkeepers. A lot of what's in the book centers on exactly these kinds of tools—how AI can lower tax, streamline finances, and make real-world business operations more efficient.From there, they dive into marketing strategy for the book. Deval suggests a mix of Amazon ads + Google/YouTube ads + social, with YouTube being especially powerful because people can see Kenner and the book together. He emphasizes the need for a strong landing page and simple but clear ad copy. Later in the conversation, they zoom out into AEO vs traditional SEO. Deval talks about AI models scraping the web, the rise of LLM tags so sites can be better read by ChatGPT/Gemini, and the importance of FAQ sections and question-based content to rank in AI answers. They also touch on Reddit and Wikipedia as authority sources, and the growing value of data-driven surveys + press releases to build credibility and get media exposure. Kenner mentions plans to run surveys related to the book and publish the results on ModernMillions.ai as a continually updated companion hub—turning the book into a living, evolving AI + finance resource instead of a static, one-and-done manual.Takeaways• AI-focused books and content now dominate shelves and search results, and titles with real substance rise especially fast.• By not bulk-buying his own book to game rankings, Kenner builds deeper trust and long-term credibility with readers.• A dedicated 48-person launch team amplified awareness, demonstrating how collaboration and community dramatically boost organic book momentum.• Running Amazon, Google, YouTube, and Instagram ads together creates strong, multi-channel reinforcement that can push rankings even higher.• Freely sharing knowledge, offering signed copies, and showing up generously for others builds powerful long-term brand equity.• Combining real survey data with strategic press releases strengthens perceived authority and increases the odds of viral coverage.Soundbites• Authenticity always wins now.• AI evolves every day.• Knowledge must stay updated.• Transparency builds real credibility.Listen & Subscribe for More:
R. Kenner French of VastSolutionsGroup.com begins by addressing brand-new real estate investors—especially W-2 employees—who are looking to break out of the corporate rat race. During a recent conversation with a couple in this exact situation, he explains why real estate is a powerful vehicle for increasing net worth and reducing tax liability. While traditional employees have limited tax-saving tools, such as contributing to a 401(k), owning a business entity that holds real estate opens the door to significantly more deductions and strategic opportunities.Kenner emphasizes that U.S. tax law is generally friendly toward business owners and real estate investors. By forming an LLC or similar entity, new investors gain access to deductions for expenses like board meetings, computers, and operating costs—all of which support the business operations of a real estate entity. More importantly, real estate ownership unlocks major tax advantages, particularly through depreciation and bonus depreciation, which allow investors to accelerate deductions and reduce taxable income in the early years of ownership.The couple Kenner spoke with was particularly interested in bonus depreciation, especially for commercial property. Kenner explains that through cost segregation and asset analysis, portions of a building can be depreciated much faster, creating substantial tax savings now rather than waiting decades. These accelerated deductions help offset income and significantly reduce personal tax burdens—something extremely appealing to W-2 earners trying to transition into real estate full-time.Beyond real estate, Kenner highlights that the couple's interest in artificial intelligence and workflow automation may qualify them for government-funded research and development (R&D) tax credits. These credits reward innovation and can dramatically lower tax liability. He also notes the couple's potential path to achieving real estate professional status—requiring more than 750 qualifying hours—which offers even deeper tax benefits by allowing real estate losses to offset active income.Finally, Kenner mentions that this couple plans to diversify internationally by investing in lower-cost global properties. Because they love to travel, acquiring real estate abroad at much lower prices allows them to build assets quickly and spread their investments across different markets. He closes by encouraging other W-2 employees considering real estate to explore similar strategies—diversification, entity structuring, tax planning, and innovation—so they can gradually shift away from traditional employment and build long-term wealth.Takeaways• Real estate can help increase net worth and lower taxes.• W-2 employees have limited options for tax deductions.• Setting up an entity for real estate can provide more deductions.• Bonus depreciation allows for accelerated tax deductions.• Investing in AI can enhance business efficiency.• Research and development tax credits can lower tax liabilities.• Global investing can provide opportunities for cheaper properties.• Diversification in real estate can mitigate risks.• Understanding tax strategies is crucial for new investors.• Real estate investing can lead to financial freedom.Sound Bites• It's a big component of their strategy.Listen & Subscribe for More:
Megan Huber joins R. Kenner french to share a major shift she's making in her business: a bold 10-posts-per-day for 30 days visibility challenge on her personal Facebook profile. With 14 years in the coaching and consulting industry, Megan specializes in helping online educators and coaches turn followers into community members, buyers, and long-term clients. Her work focuses on community, client success, and retention—key elements that keep people invested after the initial sale.The idea for the challenge came after Megan saw a friend dramatically increase her monthly Facebook views by posting ten times a day. Intrigued by the simplicity and potential impact, Megan decided to test it herself. However, she emphasizes that the challenge isn't just about numbers—it's about discipline, consistency, creativity, and visibility, traits she believes every entrepreneur must develop to succeed.Megan explains that her strategy is not random posting. She rotates only a few types of posts so she can clearly see what works and what doesn't. She's tracking everything inside an extensive spreadsheet: post type, timing, content category, performance, and engagement. This level of tracking allows her to understand exactly what actions produce results—something many entrepreneurs overlook. She views these 30 days as Phase 1: “visibility.” Phase 2 will focus on “connection,” and Phase 3 on “conversion,” making the challenge a full 90-day growth experiment.The challenge has stirred some controversy, with people questioning quantity vs. quality, motivations, and whether this approach is “vanity metrics.” Megan disagrees. She sees it as a commitment to mastering the skills needed for long-term success—showing up boldly, being seen, creating conversations, and translating attention into meaningful business outcomes. She also plans to evaluate whether adding stories and reels will amplify results, though for now she is focusing solely on posts.Kenner and Megan agree to reconnect in 30 and 60 days to track her progress. Megan believes she can double or triple her reach—from an average of ~50,000 monthly views to 150,000–200,000 or more. She invites people to connect with her on Facebook at Megan J. Huber, where she personally responds to all DMs. Kenner highlights that intentional visibility leads to opportunity—and both believe this challenge may become a powerful case study in audience growth, community building, and business expansion.Takeaways• The 10-Posts-a-Day Challenge is Megan's intentional push to increase visibility through high-volume content.• Not About Trends — It's Strategy highlights that her approach is based on discipline and a structured plan, not following hype.• Data-Driven Content Creation means she tracks every post to understand what works and to repeat her successes.• The Three-Month Game Plan outlines her phases of visibility, connection, and conversion for long-term impact.• Early Results show significant increases in views and engagement within just the first 24 hours.• Mindset: Be Seen reflects her belief that entrepreneurs must show up consistently to grow.Soundbites• People buy for results — they stay for community.• Visibility is the first domino. Without it, nothing else moves.• I'm not following a trend. I'm following discipline.• If you don't track it, you can't repeat it.Listen & Subscribe for More:
Nathan Garcia is a serial entrepreneur, certified financial planner, angel investor, and founder of the Pocket Plan app. In his conversation with R. Kenner French, he explains how he bridges “old-school” financial services with modern technology to better serve clients and scale as an entrepreneur. He holds designations like CFP and Series 66, runs a digital marketing agency, manages investments, and has built a vertically integrated business where every piece—advice, marketing, software—works together to grow his brand and client base.Nathan shares how the idea for Pocket Plan came from a real client experience: a business owner who had multiple advisors—CPA, estate planner, financial advisor, insurance agent—each giving different recommendations. Nathan had to build around 300 financial plans to model all the scenarios, and he realized there was no central, collaborative platform for everyone to work from. Pocket Plan was created to solve that: a secure, real-time personal financial model where a client can see net worth, cash flow, investments, and share that same data with multiple advisors so everyone is finally working off the same “recipe” instead of separate spreadsheets.He explains that Pocket Plan is accessible via pocketplan.io (and ranks for “pocket plan”), connects through Plaid to pull in live financial data, and pre-populates standard financial reports. The app has helped grow his business by around 20–25% over the past few years and, more importantly, gives him global scalability—expanding versions for the US, UK, Canada, Australia, and more. It also differentiates him in a crowded advisory space and creates recurring, leverageable value.On the planning and tax side, Nathan focuses heavily on shifting income from earned income to long-term capital gains, using structure, entities, and strategy. He looks at a client's operating agreements, ownership structure, and how multiple LLCs or entities can be used for legal protection, asset protection, and tax efficiency—like owning a building in a separate LLC and renting it back to the operating company. His goal is to make the business a true asset that can function without the owner, so they can work because they want to, not because they have to, while also ensuring proper estate planning so assets smoothly pass to family.Toward the end, Nathan emphasizes the importance of learning from and serving the younger generation, who think differently about business models and are driving new markets—much like how Airbnb disrupted hospitality. He encourages entrepreneurs and advisors to act as bridges between generations: passing down wisdom while staying open to new ideas and tech-driven models.Takeaways• Technology integration is crucial for modern business success.• The financial services industry is evolving with technology.• Creating a personal financial model can simplify decision-making.• Understanding different advisors' incentives is key for entrepreneurs.• The Pocket Plan app helps clients manage financial information effectively.• Business structure impacts income and tax efficiency.• Long-term capital gains are more advantageous than earned income.• Younger generations have different business perspectives worth considering.• Building a global business is possible with the right technology.• Positioning entrepreneurs to work for choice, not necessity, is essential.Listen & Subscribe for More:
Chad Brown, founder of CBB.Services, has spent 23+ years in healthcare and now specializes in helping med spa owners streamline operations and scale. Originally supporting corporate healthcare, his consulting grew organically as friends in the med spa space sought his guidance. With the med spa industry projected to jump from $18.5B to $49B by 2030, Chad decided to niche down—seeing massive growth potential and a rising global focus on health, weight loss, and hormone balance.The conversation highlights the debate between casting a wide net versus niching down. Both Chad and Kenner agree that focusing deeply on a specific audience builds authority faster. Kenner shares how being known as the AI tax expert elevated his brand—just as Chad's med spa focus positions him uniquely in a booming industry. They note that niching creates stronger content, clearer messaging, and deeper client trust.Chad openly shares that one of his biggest struggles early on was trying to do everything alone—something many entrepreneurs experience. Both he and Kenner emphasized the importance of community, mentorship, and collaboration. Kenner mentions their own group, The Vast Vault, and how mentorship from leaders like Sharon Lechter and Ron LeGrand accelerates success by helping entrepreneurs avoid costly mistakes and gain clarity.Looking ahead, Chad's focus is building scalable processes and documenting everything—key steps for long-term growth. Kenner reinforces this with the idea of creating AI-powered knowledge bases, SOP libraries, and workflows that future employees can easily adopt. They discuss how simple recordings of daily tasks can be transformed into written SOPs using AI, saving time and enabling smoother onboarding and operations.Chad is leaning heavily into affiliate partnerships and podcast guesting as his main marketing strategies. Being featured on targeted podcasts extends his reach, creates long-tail content for SEO, and allows audiences to hear his expertise firsthand. They also discuss how podcast appearances generate dozens of social media clips through AI, building authority at scale. Chad's ability to listen deeply to clients, understand their pain points, and build customized blueprints is ultimately what makes him unique in the med spa consulting world.Takeaways• Chad Brown helps med spa owners grow their businesses.• Niche marketing can lead to greater success.• Mentorship is vital for overcoming business challenges.• Documenting processes is essential for scalability.• AI can assist in creating knowledge bases.• Affiliate marketing can expand reach and revenue.• Podcasts are a powerful marketing tool.• Authenticity builds trust with clients.• Understanding pain points is key to consulting.• Community support can alleviate the struggles of entrepreneurship.Sound Bites• Mentorship can help you avoid pain• I'm a big fan of affiliates• Authenticity cannot be fakedListen & Subscribe for More:
R. Kenner French interviews Chance McClain, founder of Heritage Films, a company based in Houston that creates documentary-style films for families and founders. Chance shares how he enters projects with no expectations because people's lives are always far more complex than they appear “on paper.” He illustrates this with a story about a seemingly ordinary grandfather who, in the late 1960s and early 1980s, secretly ran a major drug operation before turning his life around and building a successful structural steel business. That experience taught Chance never to assume anything before hearing someone's full story.Chance explains how Heritage Films has grown over ten years from a passion project into a serious, thriving business. Beginning with a background in radio, sports radio, and creative filmmaking, he slowly discovered the emotional power of capturing real stories for families. What started as a Houston-based operation expanded nationwide and globally as clients hired him to film parents or grandparents living in other states or countries. He and his team have now produced around 800 films, many deeply emotional—filled with humor, hardship, and pride in genuine “rags to riches” journeys.He shares memorable projects, including a large multigenerational film for a retired dentist's family. In another example, he travels to upstate New York expecting a historic, picturesque family bar only to find a rundown building. These experiences reinforce Chance's belief that meaningful storytelling comes from listening, not assumptions.Chance also discusses how he incorporates AI into his filmmaking. During pre-production, families send large volumes of documents and notes, which he processes through tools like Notebook LM or Claude to build a detailed “producer guide.” In post-production, he uses tools such as 11Labs to enhance clarity or provide missing context by recreating a subject's voice. Kenner notes that these innovations may qualify for R&D tax credits—a key theme of VastSolutionsGroup's focus on AI and entrepreneurial tax strategy.Toward the end, Chance reflects on how obsessing over quality transformed his business—both in client experience and the final product. He wants filming day to feel fun, special, and cinematic, and he ensures the finished film is something families value for generations. He ends with a powerful story about an elderly man who confesses on camera to a 25-year affair he had never told his family about. For Chance, moments like this show that his work doesn't just record history—it helps families process truth, healing, legacy, and connection.Takeaways•Investing in real estate is straightforward and effective.• Eight out of ten millionaires made their wealth in real estate.• Filmmaking allows for deep personal connections with subjects.• Every film has intimate moments that may not make the final cut.• The importance of sharing personal stories and legacies.• Clients often seek to honor their loved ones through film.• Forgiveness can be a crucial part of personal stories.• Understanding family dynamics is key in filmmaking.• Real estate offers a common recipe for success.• Entrepreneurship often stems from a desire to create something unique.Sound Bites• Every film has stuff we edit.• I wish he would just tell us.• He needs to be forgiven.Listen & Subscribe for More:
R. Kenner French opens the presentation with a bold promise: real estate entrepreneurs, agents, and business owners can literally get paid for watching because the activities they already perform—using tools like ChatGPT, Gemini, or other AI platforms—may qualify for federal Research & Development (R&D) tax credits. VastSolutionsGroup.com, founded in 1969 and led by Kenner since 2006, specializes in tax reduction, finance, and artificial intelligence to help entrepreneurs lower their tax liabilities legally, ethically, and effectively. The message is simple: if you are applying AI to improve your operations, you may be leaving significant federal dollars on the table.Kenner explains the relationship between AI usage and R&D tax credits by breaking down the pillars the government looks for: creating something new or better, solving technical uncertainty, performing trial-and-error testing, and using science or technology in your process. AI is not just a business tool—it is a potential revenue source through tax incentives.He highlights practical real-world examples from VastSolutionsGroup.com itself. Their internal automations—AI-driven phone systems, AI-powered tax projections, nationwide scaling, property-analysis tools, automated customer service workflows, and even their Vast Vault community—were all developed through R&D and now qualify for substantial tax credits. Kenner stresses that these innovations made it possible for the company to operate nationally, expand faster, cut labor costs, and provide more accurate tax planning tools, reinforcing the direct connection between AI adoption and business growth.Beyond taxes, Kenner outlines the broader benefits of integrating AI: faster decision-making, stronger competitive advantage, scalability, time freedom, professional-level output, and a streamlined customer experience. Business owners can automate repetitive tasks, reduce operational errors, process leads more efficiently, and make more informed decisions thanks to AI's analytical power. All of these improvements contribute to both business expansion and eligibility for R&D credits. Ultimately, AI transforms entrepreneurs into more agile, efficient, and profitable operators.The presentation closes with a clear call to action: consult your tax professional immediately to determine whether your AI usage qualifies for R&D credits. His final message is simple—AI + R&D = profit. Entrepreneurs who adopt AI today not only improve their businesses but may also receive federal dollars for the innovation they're already doing.Takeaways• You're going to get paid for watching this presentation.• If you're doing anything technical to advantage your company, you're going to get paid for this.• You could be getting some federal tax credits.• You're probably leaving money on the table.• It's just smart business to leverage AI.• Your work must involve either science, technology, engineering, or math.• You can make quicker decisions with AI.• You can automate all your stuff, which is huge.• It's free money if you qualify for R&D tax credits.• Consult with a tax professional to maximize your savings.Sound Bites• It's just smart business.• Are you doing the research?• It's free money, right?Listen & Subscribe for More:
The conversation introduces Tino Dietrich, a serial entrepreneur known for his involvement in Ashley Madison and early disruption in the energy drink and online dating industries. He begins by emphasizing that the most valuable asset for any entrepreneur is the quality of their relationships—starting with themselves and extending outward to family and community. His background is rich: raised by entrepreneurial parents, he helped launch an early European energy drink that paralleled Red Bull's rise, later entered global shipping and trading, and eventually became influential in digital ventures, particularly online dating.Tino's journey took a dramatic turn during COVID when he became severely ill and was placed on ECMO, with doctors unsure if he would survive the night. After receiving last rites and confronting the possibility of death, he reflected deeply on what he had accomplished versus what truly mattered. He realized that although he had achieved business success, his relationships and personal legacy were not aligned with the life he had envisioned. That near-death experience pushed him to reevaluate his priorities and commit to rebuilding the relational areas of his life.This transformation led Tino to his current mission: coaching men—especially entrepreneurs—to strengthen their relationships with their spouses, children, and themselves. For him, infidelity is not a cause but a symptom of deeper relational fractures. He argues that men often pour their best energy into business while neglecting their homes, ultimately sabotaging the very life they're trying to build.Tino challenges excuses like “I don't have time,” calling them limiting beliefs or “crappy rules.” He teaches that the solution is to consciously reorder priorities and recognize that business success can only reach its full potential when supported by a healthy home life. He shares a powerful success story of a father who, after completing the program, finally reconnected with his son—transforming a distant relationship into meaningful father-son bonding over a car project and a shared road trip.To guide others, Tino created a data-driven coaching program and authored the upcoming book False Kings. He encourages people to start by reading the book and visiting DietrichInstitute.com to explore whether his philosophy aligns with their needs. The message of the interview is clear: true success is not measured only by money or achievements, but by the strength of one's relationships and the legacy built at home.Takeaways• The ECMO machine is crucial for supporting heart and lung function.• Facing a life-threatening diagnosis can be overwhelming.• Conversations with medical professionals can be life-changing.• Spiritual guidance can provide comfort in times of crisis.• The uncertainty of health can lead to profound reflections on life.• Communication with loved ones is essential during medical emergencies.• Understanding one's condition is vital for emotional processing.• The role of faith can be significant in coping with illness.• Support systems are crucial during health challenges.• Mortality is a topic that often surfaces in medical crises.Sound Bites• We have to put you on an ECMO.• Why is he saying this to me?• Call your wife or your family.Listen & Subscribe for More:
Chris Miles, the “anti–financial advisor,” joins Kenner to celebrate the launch of his new book, The Work-Optional Blueprint, which officially launches today. The core idea of the book is escaping the traditional “slave and save” mindset: endlessly stuffing money into 401(k)s and IRAs, aggressively paying off all debt, and hoping one day there's enough left to retire. Instead, Chris teaches entrepreneurs how to free up cashflow, get liquid, and redirect money into passive income so they can work because they want to, not because they have to.He shares real client stories to show what this looks like in practice. One chiropractor was making good money but constantly felt, “Where is it all going?” By examining his cashflow, restructuring loans, and moving “lazy” stock market money into more productive uses, Chris helped him free up $6,000 per month. The client immediately bought a $6,000 four-wheeler—not just as a toy, but as a symbol of freedom: he began taking weekends off, spending more time with his wife and kids, and avoiding burnout. Another client in California had $800,000 trapped in a low-cashflow rental. By selling that property and redeploying the equity into multiple rentals in better markets, his passive income jumped from $200/month to over $8,000/month using the same money.A big section of the conversation dives into infinite banking and how Chris uses properly structured whole life insurance as a tool—not just for death benefit, but as a tax-advantaged cash reservoir. He explains that when designed with lower costs, these policies can earn around 4–6% tax-free while also serving as collateral. Instead of withdrawing cash and losing growth, clients can borrow against the policy, keep their money compounding, and simultaneously invest in their business or real estate. He cites examples from everyday entrepreneurs to big names like Walt Disney and Jim Harbaugh, showing how this kind of strategy can create a powerful leverage effect.To close, Chris returns to his bigger mission: through his company Money Ripples, he wants to help at least 1,000 families become financially independent by 2030. He emphasizes that for newer entrepreneurs, the best investment is still their own business, not chasing passive income too early. But as profits grow, owners must learn to take money out of the business and build diversified passive income streams so they're not at the mercy of economic shocks like shutdowns. For Chris, financial freedom isn't just about comfort—it's about having the resources and time to bless more lives, serve others, and live on your own terms.Takeaways• The experience of facing mortality can be transformative.• Community support is crucial during health crises.• Books should provide actionable insights, not just theory.• Small business owners often face unique challenges.• Resilience can be cultivated through adversity.• Personal growth often stems from difficult experiences.• Understanding one's health situation is vital.• Communication with loved ones is essential during crises.• The importance of having a plan for unexpected events.• Sharing experiences can help others navigate similar challenges.Sound Bites• What do they get?• I didn't know what to say.• I said, what's happening?Listen & Subscribe for More:
In this episode, R. Kenner French sits down with Brad Englert, author of Spheres of Influence, to talk about the one thing that never goes out of style in business — authentic relationships. Brad shares wisdom from his 22 years at Accenture, where he learned that success isn't just about strategy or systems — it's about people. His simple yet powerful advice? “Get out of your office and tell people you give a damn.”
R. Kenner French dives deep into how artificial intelligence can transform the way entrepreneurs grow and manage their businesses. He explains that AI isn't just a buzzword — it's a financial advantage waiting to be tapped. From improving efficiency to lowering taxes, AI is the modern entrepreneur's secret weapon. Kenner emphasizes that those who ignore it risk being left behind in the next wave of innovation.
In this episode, R. Kenner French of VastSolutionsGroup.com reveals how business owners — especially in the real estate and entrepreneurial space — can literally get paid by the government for using artificial intelligence in their business. He explains how combining AI and Research & Development (R&D) tax credits can turn innovation into real dollars, often money business owners didn't even know they were entitled to.
In this episode, R. Kenner French sits down with Brad Englert, author of Spheres of Influence, to talk about the one thing that never goes out of style in business — authentic relationships. Brad shares wisdom from his 22 years at Accenture, where he learned that success isn't just about strategy or systems — it's about people. His simple yet powerful advice? “Get out of your office and tell people you give a damn.”
R. Kenner French interviews trader/author Chris Vermeulen about a practical approach to making money in both rising and falling markets. Chris's core tip is simple: don't hold assets that are declining, and don't “over-diversify” across similar stock/bond assets that all sink together in bear phases. After trying nearly every trading style since age 16, he now focuses on a clean, rules-based approach using highly liquid ETFs and taking only a few high-probability trades each year.His method blends two pillars: technical analysis and sentiment. Technically, he rides established trends (higher highs/higher lows) and treats markets like ocean sets—catch the strong wave, raise stops as momentum fades, then exit and wait. On sentiment, he tracks flows across ~11 asset classes to see where money is moving (risk-on vs risk-off). When both price and flows align, he enters; when they don't, he steps aside.The audience “avatar” is typically 45+ investors who prioritize capital protection and steady growth over thrill-seeking. Many are entrepreneurs and real-estate owners. Chris doesn't manage client money directly; instead, subscribers can mirror his allocations via alerts. The team is distributed (operations, support, education) with daily videos and mentoring to keep members informed without complexity.Results and resources: since the 2007–08 peak, Chris cites ~14.3% average annual returns with a max drawdown under 6%, compared with far larger declines for buy-and-hold benchmarks during crises. He trades instruments like SPY, QQQ, and TLT, and often sits in interest-bearing cash ~40% of the year when conditions aren't favorable. He's written two books—Technical Trading Mastery and Asset Revesting—the latter outlining the “own what's rising; hold cash when nothing is” approach. Subscriptions run about $2,500/year and include a members area, mobile alerts, daily market videos, and twice-monthly live mentoring.Takeaways• Smart investing isn't just about growing wealth — it's about protecting what you already have, especially in bear markets.• Move away from declining positions instead of hoping they recover — that mistake ruins portfolios.• Spreading money across similar assets like stocks and bonds won't save you if they crash together.• Rather than reacting to news, focus on price trends that show where money is really flowing.• Like surfing — wait for the right wave, ride it strong, then step off when it weakens. • Tracking where money flows between assets helps spot fear or greed before big moves.• Own what's rising, shift to cash when nothing is — earn interest while waiting for better setups.• Level-headed investors know chasing quick gains usually leads to losses.• Steady discipline with low drawdowns outperforms risky, high-chase strategies.• Don't wait for a crash to act — prepare early to protect and grow your wealth.Soundbites• Don't hold assets that are going down. • When the tide rises, all boats go up — but you need to know when it's going out.• Technical analysis isn't about predicting; it's about reacting intelligently.• It's not about making 50% a year — it's about never losing 50% in one.Listen & Subscribe for More:
R. Kenner French opens the discussion by introducing David Flores Wilson, a financial advisor and Wall Street veteran, to share insights on finance, retirement, and exit planning for entrepreneurs. Wilson emphasizes the importance of planning an exit strategy early—even years or decades before selling a business. He explains that thinking ahead allows business owners to align their personal, financial, and business goals, leading to a smoother and more profitable exit process.David shares his personal background, explaining that his passion for financial planning came from witnessing his grandparents lose their business due to poor estate planning and risky real estate decisions. This experience motivated him to help entrepreneurs avoid similar pitfalls by guiding them through key areas such as tax, real estate, and estate planning. He eventually transitioned from investment banking to entrepreneurship, founding his own advisory firm during the pandemic.The conversation dives into exit planning strategies—how entrepreneurs can prepare their businesses to be more valuable and attractive to potential buyers. David highlights that a crucial step in maximizing value is making the business less dependent on the owner. This involves developing management systems, defining roles, and establishing efficient processes for sales, marketing, and operations. Doing so increases the company's valuation, whether it's sold to private equity, a strategic buyer, or through family succession.Both experts discuss the significance of financial literacy and tax strategy in wealth growth. Wilson outlines five key levers of financial literacy: saving, investing, protecting assets, managing debt, and minimizing taxes. He explains four major areas of tax efficiency—entity structure, tax deferral plans (like 401(k)s or cash balance plans), credits and deductions, and tax optimization across income types. These strategies, he says, can significantly reduce liabilities and boost long-term financial health.David concludes by stressing the value of building a strong advisory team. As entrepreneurs grow, their financial needs evolve, and sometimes their current advisors may not grow with them. He encourages business owners to continually evaluate and “level up” their professional team—tax experts, financial planners, and legal advisors—to match their increasing sophistication. The discussion ends with French reminding viewers about resources like taxcreditintel.com for R&D tax credits, reinforcing their shared mission of helping entrepreneurs protect and grow wealth through smart planning and proactive strategy.Takeaways• Investing in crypto is a popular alternative to real estate.• Real estate investments can be understood through simple math.• Many millionaires have built their wealth through real estate.• Tax strategies are crucial when considering investments.• Working with CPAs can help maximize tax benefits.• Timing your investment sales can impact tax liabilities.• Real estate offers a common recipe for success.• Understanding leverage is key in real estate investing.• Cash balances can influence investment decisions.• The entrepreneurial journey often begins with a desire for independence.Sound Bites• Work with your CPAs for tax credits.• It's really seventh grade math.• There is a common recipe for success.Listen & Subscribe for More:
R. Kenner French in partnership with Xcel University and Jeff Lenning, explains that U.S. federal and many state governments offer Research & Development (R&D) tax credits—even for work involving artificial intelligence (AI) like ChatGPT, Claude, or custom models. Vast Solutions Group has worked with AI since 2010/2018 and routinely helps small business owners reduce tax liabilities through these credits, noting that his own AI and quantum-computing research time has been effectively “paid for” via credits.He defines R&D simply: research is investigating how to create something new; development is actually building it. To qualify, activities generally must meet four criteria: aim to make something new or substantially improved; be grounded in science/technology/engineering/math; involve a process of experimentation or trial-and-error; and address technical uncertainty or risk. These rules can apply to many Excel University–style projects and AI initiatives, and some states offer refundable benefits even without state income tax.Kenner gives practical examples: building a new marketing or analysis system, creating a property/project management tool, and automating workflows. He shares Vast's own use cases—AI-driven “causations” (workflows), an AI-enabled phone system, a Tax Projection Plus system that forecasts liabilities and suggests legal mitigations, new mobile apps, a client community, and AI-powered customer service/content—much of which earned R&D credits. Claims can often reach back up to three years.The benefits extend beyond refunds: AI plus R&D credits can confer faster decision-making, competitiveness, time savings, professionalism, and better finances. In a simple illustration, qualifying R&D spending can produce larger savings than a standard deduction and may generate carryforwards. The practical process is: document R&D activities, identify eligible expenses, optimize going forward, and repeat annually. He expects R&D incentives to remain, with bipartisan support and periodic updates.Kenner closes with a call to action: ask a tax professional whether you've been missing out on credits and consider Vast's resources. He offers a free book to Xcel University participants via email, reiterates that the filing is paperwork-heavy but typically worth it, and emphasizes a broader mission—supporting U.S. competitiveness and human progress by rewarding innovation that many attendees are already doing.Takeaways• The government provides funding for innovative projects through R&D tax credits.• Many businesses are unaware of the potential benefits of R&D tax credits.• Qualifying for R&D tax credits requires demonstrating innovation and improvement.• Trial and error in development can still qualify for R&D tax credits.• Investing in R&D can lead to significant financial savings for businesses.• Artificial intelligence plays a crucial role in modern business innovation.• R&D tax credits can be claimed retroactively for up to three years.• The financial benefits of R&D tax credits often outweigh standard deductions.• The R&D tax credit is a permanent fixture in the tax code, encouraging ongoing innovation.• Utilizing R&D tax credits can enhance a business's competitive edge in the market.Sound Bites• You could be getting paid by the government.• Are you doing something new or better?• The federal government has no cap on it.Listen & Subscribe for More:
R. Kenner French delivers an insightful presentation on how entrepreneurs, real estate investors, and business owners can profit by combining Artificial Intelligence (AI) with Research and Development (R&D) tax credits. He emphasizes that many professionals are unknowingly leaving money on the table because they are not leveraging these government incentives. French explains that the U.S. government provides tax credits to businesses that innovate, experiment, and develop new technologies—including those using AI systems like ChatGPT and Claude.He outlines the basic criteria for qualifying for R&D tax credits: creating something new or improved, taking measurable risks in development, and engaging in trial and error. These criteria apply broadly—from designing new marketing systems to building innovative property management tools or data analysis platforms. Essentially, any business improving its processes through AI could be eligible for these credits, allowing them to reduce taxable income and receive direct financial benefits for their innovation efforts.Kenner also highlights how practices what it preaches. His company has developed its own AI systems, such as “Einstein,” which automates workflows, customer service, phone systems, and content creation. These innovations not only make operations more efficient but also qualify for significant R&D tax credits. He further shares that their AI tools—like Vast Vault and Vast Voice—are built to enhance both tax management and client engagement through automation and predictive analysis.Beyond the tax savings, Kenner underscores the strategic advantages of AI for real estate investors and business owners. AI enables faster decision-making, scalability, and automation, creating competitive advantages over those not yet using the technology. He explains that adopting AI reduces costs, frees up time, and allows entrepreneurs to focus on growth and innovation. Businesses that integrate AI into their systems, he suggests, will be the ones leading their industries in efficiency and profitability.In conclusion, Kenner reiterates that “AI + R&D = Profit.” By adopting artificial intelligence and documenting innovation efforts properly, businesses can claim tax credits for up to three years retroactively. He encourages entrepreneurs to consult with tax professionals—or VastSolutionsGroup.com directly—to explore their eligibility. Ultimately, this approach not only strengthens a business's technological edge but also rewards innovation through tangible financial returns.Takeaways• AI and R&D can significantly increase profitability.• Many entrepreneurs are unaware of available tax credits.• The government incentivizes R&D in AI.• Testing and innovation are key to qualifying for tax credits.• AI tools can streamline business operations and decision-making.• Real estate professionals can benefit greatly from AI.• Automation can free up time for entrepreneurs.• Consulting with tax professionals is crucial for maximizing benefits.• R&D tax credits can lead to substantial tax savings.• Continuous engagement with tech professionals is essential.Sound Bites• We're here to help you make money.• AI plus R&D equals profit.• R&D tax credits save more money.Listen & Subscribe for More:
R. Kenner French sits down with Jim Sheils, a seasoned real estate investor and author of The Passive Income Playbook and The Family Board Meeting. Sheils shares his core philosophy on real estate success—“own less of better quality.” Over his 26 years in the industry, he's learned that investing in fewer, higher-quality properties yields better cash flow, equity, and freedom than managing numerous low-end assets. His approach prioritizes time and lifestyle balance over quantity, emphasizing that true wealth comes from smarter—not harder—investing.Jim explains how he transitioned from rehabbing foreclosures to new construction projects, which allowed him to scale efficiently and achieve more consistent returns. This partnership enables them to pre-buy mortgage rates and build thousands of homes in Florida without relying on bank financing—a major advantage in today's uncertain lending environment. Their focus remains on affordable workforce housing, a sector still seeing strong demand due to Florida's population and job growth.For aspiring investors, Jim's advice is clear: resist the temptation to chase cheap properties that look good on paper but come with high maintenance and turnover costs. Instead, he encourages beginners to save and invest in stable, mid-range markets with solid fundamentals and favorable landlord laws. Jim's strategy aims to help investors avoid burnout and create lasting wealth through smarter property choices.Beyond real estate, Sheils' second book, The Family Board Meeting, highlights the importance of work-life balance for entrepreneurs. Drawing from his experience as a father of five, he promotes simple family-focused habits that prevent professionals from losing connection at home while building their businesses. The book's success—even hitting #1 on the Wall Street Journal business list—proves that his message resonates with driven people seeking harmony between professional and personal success.Throughout the conversation, Kenner and Jim align on the idea that real estate should serve as the foundation of a diversified wealth strategy. They discuss how its tangible nature, tax advantages, and leverage potential make it one of the most reliable paths to financial freedom. Jim concludes by encouraging investors to develop proficiency in whatever investment they choose—but reminds them that “eight out of ten millionaires made their wealth in real estate.” His story and philosophy together reveal a roadmap to wealth that balances profit, freedom, and family—an ethos both he and Kenner champion through their respective ventures.Takeaways• Investing in real estate is straightforward and accessible.• Real estate has a proven track record of wealth creation.• Eight out of ten millionaires in the US made their money in real estate.• Understanding the basics of real estate can lead to success.• Crypto investments come with higher volatility and risk.• Real estate offers stability compared to other investment options.• Entrepreneurship often begins with a desire to create something new.• Financial literacy is crucial for successful investing.• The market can be unpredictable, unlike real estate.• A common recipe for success exists in real estate investing.Sound Bites• It's really seventh grade math• The levers are very straightforward• Crypto is a volatile investmentListen & Subscribe for More:
Artificial intelligence (AI) has undoubtedly revolutionized the way we live, work, and interact with technology. However, November 30, 2022, marked a significant milestone in the history of AI, reshaping not only the field of computer science but also the entire human race. This article will explore the world of AI before and after this momentous date, highlighting the transformative impact it has had on our lives.AI Before November 30, 2022: Building the FoundationBefore November 30, 2022, AI had already made significant strides in various fields, including machine learning, neural networks, and natural language processing. Some notable achievements and developments from this period include: Machine Learning: Machine learning is a subset of AI that focuses on teaching computers to learn from data rather than being explicitly programmed. Key advancements in this field, such as the invention of Support Vector Machines and deep learning, laid the groundwork for modern AI systems. Neural Networks: Inspired by the human brain's structure, neural networks consist of interconnected nodes or “neurons” that can process complex data and recognize patterns. These networks enabled AI systems to perform tasks like image recognition and natural language processing. Virtual Assistants: AI-powered virtual assistants like Siri, Alexa, and Google Assistant had become increasingly popular, helping users with tasks such as answering questions, setting reminders, and playing music. Self-driving Cars: AI had made significant progress in the development of self-driving cars, which use sensors, cameras, and AI algorithms to navigate roads, avoid obstacles, and make driving decisions.AI After November 30, 2022: A New EraThe turning point on November 30, 2022, marked the beginning of a new era for AI, leading to unprecedented advancements in technology and its integration into our daily lives. Key developments and achievements since this pivotal date include: Human-level AI: The development of AI systems capable of matching or surpassing human intelligence in various tasks revolutionized industries and the way we interact with technology. These AI systems could understand context, emotions, and nuances, enabling seamless communication between humans and machines. General AI: Prior to November 30, 2022, AI systems were mostly specialized, focusing on specific tasks or domains. The advent of general AI allowed for the creation of versatile AI systems that could learn and adapt to various tasks and environments, making them more efficient and effective. AI in Healthcare: The post-November 30th era saw AI playing a crucial role in healthcare, from early diagnosis and personalized treatment plans to drug discovery and robotic surgery. These advancements dramatically improved patient outcomes and revolutionized medical research. AI and the Environment: AI began to play a significant role in addressing environmental challenges, such as climate change and pollution, by optimizing energy consumption, monitoring ecosystems, and even discovering new sustainable materials and practices. AI Ethics and Regulation: With the rapid advancements in AI came a renewed focus on ethics and regulation, ensuring that AI systems were developed and used responsibly, fairly, and transparently.Conclusion: The Future of AIThe world of AI before and after November 30, 2022, is markedly different, with the turning point ushering in a new era of unprecedented technological advancements and human progress. As we continue to explore the vast potential of AI, we must remain mindful of the ethical and societal implications of these powerful technologies. The future of AI holds both incredible opportunities and challenges, and it is up to us to ensure that we harness its potential responsibly and for the benefit of all.
What is the “Blockchain?” Blockchain is a relatively new technology that has the potential to change the way we do business. It's taking over in some areas, like finance and government services, but what is it? Blockchain can be defined as an online ledger of transactions that are secured by cryptography. It's essentially a decentralized database with records organized into “blocks” which cannot be altered without changing all subsequent blocks. If you do a transaction, it is recorded forever and can not be redone. Is blockchain technology growing? Blockchain technology is growing at an exponential rate. It's projected that blockchain will be worth $60 billion by 2024. That's a huge jump from about $1 billion in 2017! If you're not familiar with blockchain, it can be daunting to try and wrap your head around what blockchain is — let alone why it matters for the future of our society. Don't worry, in the not too distant future, your everyday life will be somewhat based upon the blockchain. You will see. Are blockchain and cryptocurrency the same thing? Blockchain is a type of database that can store digital data in a way that makes it difficult for people to tamper with it. Cryptocurrency is money created by encryption techniques as opposed to being printed or minted like regular currency. For example, Bitcoin was the first blockchain-based cryptocurrency ever made. Crypto uses the blockchain as a foundation. Without the blockchain, there is no cryptocurrency, generally speaking. Can I get rich by investing in blockchain domains? Just like getting into real estate can get you rich, buying blockchain domains are a great way to get rich. Blockchain domains are the newest form of asset available on the blockchain. Not only do blockchain domains potentially provide high financial returns, but they also provide high utility returns for blockchain application developers, blockchain service providers and blockchain project owners. The number of blockchain projects is expected to grow dramatically in 2022 with an expected increase of more than $9 trillion market capitalization in 2022. Blockchain domain investors will benefit from this massive growth in blockchain services because it creates demand for blockchain domain names much the same way that internet domains were all the rage in the 1990s. The result was that some investors made tremendous amounts of money. It is not too late to be before the crowd. Do I have to worry about taxes as it relates to cryptocurrency, blockchain, etc? As an investor, one of the most important things you can do is to plan for your taxes especially when it comes to cryptocurrency, NFTs, etc. It's not something that should be overlooked or ignored. With Tax Day coming up this spring, now is the time to start thinking about how you will approach this year's tax season and what strategies may work best for you as a new blockchain-based company
R. Kenner French begins by challenging a common misconception among financial advisors — that qualified plans like 401(k)s, profit-sharing plans, and defined benefit plans cannot invest in alternative assets such as real estate, private offerings, or crypto. He clarifies that these investments are indeed allowed, provided they follow IRS and plan rules. Vast Solutions Group has been enabling this for decades and was among the first to allow crypto investments in defined benefit plans. The goal, he says, is to empower trustees to diversify their retirement portfolios beyond traditional markets.He explains the process in detail: plan assets can be directed into alternative investments through proper custodianship and documentation. The ownership documents and investment paperwork should always reflect the plan—not the individual personally. This ensures the asset remains sheltered under the qualified plan umbrella and retains its tax advantages.Kenner then outlines the key benefits of this strategy. Investing in alternatives offers diversification, potentially higher returns, inflation protection, and reduced exposure to stock market volatility. Assets like real estate, venture capital, or even gold can serve as inflation hedges while producing attractive, risk-adjusted returns. By broadening their portfolios, business owners can achieve a more balanced financial position, provided they approach these investments strategically and within compliance parameters.However, Kenner cautions that alternative investing inside qualified plans comes with serious responsibilities and risks. Since the trustee is effectively their own financial advisor, they assume all responsibility for due diligence and outcomes. Administrative tasks are more complex and costly, and certain investments can be illiquid or volatile. He recounts examples where clients lost large sums due to poor real estate or crypto investments. Therefore, while VastSolutionsGroup.com can provide logistical and compliance support, it does not assume investment risk — that lies with the trustee.In closing, Kenner emphasizes that alternative investments can be a powerful tool for diversification and tax efficiency, but they must be handled with care. Income or gains generated from these investments flow back into the qualified plan, maintaining their tax-deferred status until withdrawal. Just like an umbrella shields you from rain, the plan shields you from taxes — until you step outside it. Ultimately, he advises business owners to consult their actuaries, plan administrators, and compliance experts before proceeding. With the right structure and discipline, these investments can create significant long-term benefits within qualified retirement plans.Takeaways• You can invest qualified plans in alternative assets.• Financial advisors may not be aware of all options.• Clients have the authority to choose their investments.• Alternative investments can provide diversification.• Higher returns are possible with alternative assets.• Investments must be held in the plan's name.• Administrative responsibilities increase with alternative investments.• There are risks involved in alternative investments.• Compliance is crucial when investing in alternatives.• Alternative investments can hedge against inflation.Sound Bites• You need compliance.• It could totally backfire.• A lot of people don't know.Listen & Subscribe for More:
Tracy Gapin, MD opens with a clear thesis: longevity and high performance come from prioritizing foundational habits — especially sleep — and pairing those habits with precise diagnostics and a strong team. Early in the conversation he stresses that poor sleep is a major health disruptor, and that simple, intentional routines can make a huge difference to energy, recovery, hormones, and long-term health.He gives practical, concrete sleep advice: plan your schedule backward from wake time to guarantee 7–8 hours; eliminate blue light and heavy meals before bed; and focus the last couple hours on five calming routines — reading a physical book, journaling/gratitude, mindfulness or breathing exercises, sauna, and intimacy. For supplements he recommends magnesium glycinate/threonate, L-theanine, GABA, while warning against sedative pharmaceuticals that reduce sleep quality.Dr. Tracy shares his personal transformation: after 25 years in urology he hit burnout and poor health, then went back to study functional medicine, hormones, peptides, and epigenetics. That period of retraining helped him recover his health and passion, and taught him to combine medical rigor with lifestyle coaching. He emphasizes that diagnostics, data, and coaching turned his own recovery into a repeatable business model.His Peak Launch program is described as an integrated, six-month precision-medicine offering that combines advanced diagnostics, longevity-trained medical providers, functional-medicine coaches, concierge support, and an intuitive client app. The program tracks outcomes with wearables, labs, and body composition scans; gives clients direct text access to their team; and plans to include a personalized AI agent (PLX) trained on clinical knowledge plus the client's own metrics to provide tailored, actionable recommendations.Toward the end he pivots to entrepreneurship and marketing: know the exact problem you solve, who you solve it for, and how you're faster/better/cheaper — usually “better” for high-ticket healthcare. Meet the client where they are in the awareness journey, test and track outcomes, and lead with service and education rather than pushing products. For anyone interested, he directs listeners to gapininstitute.com (and gapininstitute.com/launch) for resources and to connect with his team.Takeaways• Look at how much new business has emerged due to technology.• AI is integrated into every aspect of our team's operations.• The future of AI will create unimaginable innovations.• Health diagnostics are essential for understanding personal health.• Many people overlook the importance of comprehensive testing.• Inflammation and hormone issues can affect daily performance.• Entrepreneurs should identify blind spots in their health.• Testing is crucial for both health and business strategies.• Longevity health is a key focus for entrepreneurs.• Engaging with professionals can lead to better health outcomes.Sound Bites• everyone on our team uses AI• get tested• check us out. Happy to jump on a callListen & Subscribe for More:
R. Kenner French welcomes Tom Allen, founder of The AI Journal, and sets the tone: this is a practical, experience-driven conversation about AI, entrepreneurship, and building a media platform. Tom explains his background in marketing and how, frustrated by the lack of thoughtful places to share AI perspectives, he started The AI Journal as a passion project nearly five years ago. Early struggles and learning from failures shaped the platform more than overnight success ever could.Tom outlines what The AI Journal actually is and how it operates: an inclusive publishing platform that invites contributors from many domains — from tax and self-care to quantum computing and education — to share strategies, tools, frameworks, and long-form insight rather than chasing daily fast news. The site's mission is to elevate expert voices, encourage healthy debate, and provide deep dives that help readers understand and apply AI meaningfully.A recurring theme is the power of collaboration and community. Tom credits partnership-building and human networking as the most important drivers of his progress: connecting people, amplifying their work, and helping contributors get visibility that led to speaking gigs, mentions in major outlets, and real business relationships. Both hosts emphasize that community and collaboration compound value — one plus one often becomes much more than two.Tom gives straightforward advice to entrepreneurs: be customer-centric and build for real problems. He warns that media and platform businesses are particularly hard — you must focus on serving the reader/customer, not chasing features or flashy product bells. He stresses the importance of knowing who you're building for, fostering partnerships, and designing offerings that genuinely help users, which in turn creates advocates and sustainable growth.Looking ahead, Tom shares a hopeful but pragmatic vision: expanding media brands into focused verticals, exploring a first non-media startup, and continuing to help people build careers and connections through the platform. Both host and guest close on an optimistic note about AI's role in creating new jobs and markets, while reminding entrepreneurs that human connection, collaboration, and customer-first thinking remain the core ingredients for long-term success.Takeaways• Tom Allen emphasizes the importance of collaboration in business.• The AI Journal started as a passion project, not a business.• Content creation is vital for engaging audiences in the AI space.• Learning from failures is crucial for growth and success.• The reader is considered the number one customer at the AI Journal.• Healthy debates and diverse opinions are encouraged on the platform.• Tom's background includes a mix of marketing and engineering insights.• Future aspirations include expanding into various tech sectors.• AI is seen as a tool for creating new opportunities, not job losses.• Building a community around a product is essential for long-term success.Sound Bites• You learn from your downs.• People get bored very easily.• It's going to better humanity.Listen & Subscribe for More:
R. Kenner French opens by positioning tax planning as a core strategy for building real estate wealth — not a once-a-year chore. He stresses that many real estate entrepreneurs overpay because they either don't use proper entities, don't track their activity, or don't plan proactively. He combines tax, finance and AI to help clients project tax exposure and work backwards to reduce liability ethically and legally.He counts down ten “easy” tax hacks, starting with the right entity structure to optimize taxes and protection, and the powerful “real estate professional” status that lets high earners offset active income with real estate losses. Maximizing and accelerating depreciation is another core lever he emphasizes — it's technical, but can materially reduce taxable income when handled correctly.French highlights income-shifting and family payroll as simple, effective moves, and promotes self-directed retirement plans for investing in real estate tax-deferred or tax-free. He also covers practical deductions many miss — business travel, due diligence trips, seminars — and the importance of clean, AI-powered bookkeeping to keep records tidy, reduce errors, and surface tax opportunities.He explains the tax differences between flipping and long-term rentals, mentions installment-sale strategies to spread tax bills, and reminds listeners about everyday deductions like home-office and vehicle rules or Section 179. Above all, he pushes for a proactive, repeatable tax plan — set it early, review it quarterly, and stick to it to capture ongoing savings.As a final bonus, French flags R&D tax credits as high-value, often-overlooked dollar-for-dollar savings, and closes by outlining paid offerings — a tax strategy roadmap, free AI bookkeeping for a year, access to the Vast Vault community, and coordinated asset-protection review with counsel — inviting listeners to visit for help.Takeaways• Cutting taxes legally is possible with the right strategies.• Many real estate entrepreneurs are unaware of their overpaid taxes.• Wealthy individuals strategize their tax planning effectively.• Setting up an LLC or S-Corp can significantly reduce tax liabilities.• Real estate professionals can deduct losses against active income.• Maximizing depreciation can lead to substantial tax savings.• Income shifting to family members can lower overall tax burdens.• Investing in real estate through IRAs can yield tax-free growth.• Travel expenses related to business can be deducted.• Proactive tax planning is essential for financial success.Sound Bites• Setting up an LLC can help you with taxes.• Shift income strategically to save money.• Have a proactive tax plan in place.Listen & Subscribe for More:
Mark Miller, known as “The Money Man,” discussed his work as a business financial consultant and his partnership with Brad Hilton of the Hilton family—grandson of Conrad Hilton. Together, they manage Hilton Tax and Wealth Advisors and the Hilton Family Office, focusing on bringing high-level, institutional wealth strategies to everyday investors. Their goal is to bridge the gap between Wall Street and Main Street, giving average entrepreneurs access to the same sophisticated tools the ultra-wealthy use to build and preserve wealth.Miller explained the concept of a family office, which originated with the Rockefellers as a way to unify financial advisors, attorneys, and wealth managers under one coordinated structure. Over time, this evolved into the virtual family office (VFO) model, which outsources top experts across different fields rather than hiring a large in-house staff. This approach allows clients—whether in large cities or small towns—to access the best professionals globally through modern technology, without the massive overhead or management challenges of traditional offices.The discussion then shifted to common challenges family offices face, based on a Vast Vault community survey: hiring, succession planning, and tax mitigation. Miller shared that virtual family offices eliminate many hiring issues since they outsource to “best-in-class” experts rather than recruiting internally. This ensures clients get top-tier service without the risks of turnover or mismatched talent, which often plague traditional family offices.On succession planning, both Miller and Kenner agreed it's one of the most complex and emotionally charged parts of wealth management. It often takes years to coordinate among multiple generations and advisors. Miller emphasized the importance of including spouses and younger heirs early in the planning process to maintain harmony and prevent disputes. Communication, he noted, is the key to avoiding future conflict—especially as family dynamics evolve and new decision-makers step in.Finally, they addressed tax mitigation, which Miller ranked as the most critical element of wealth building. He stressed that proactive and advanced tax planning can dramatically increase net worth, citing examples where clients saved millions in a single year. Both agreed that focusing on tax efficiency allows families to grow their wealth faster and more sustainably. Takeaways• Mark Miller is a financial consultant with extensive experience in family offices.• Family offices originated from the Rockefellers to manage wealth cohesively.• Virtual family offices offer boutique services with outsourced expertise.• Communication among advisors is crucial for effective wealth management.• Succession planning is complex and requires inclusive communication.• Tax mitigation is essential for building and preserving wealth.• Advanced tax strategies can significantly reduce tax liabilities.• AI can enhance efficiency in wealth management and tax planning.• Wealth management should focus on safety before seeking high returns.• Education on wealth strategies should be accessible to all, not just the wealthy.Sound Bites• What is a family office?• The original was an individual family office.• Succession planning is very complex.Listen & Subscribe for More:
Franchising isn't just a business move — it's a wealth strategy.
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