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Segment 1: Phillip Shaw, CFP, Senior Advisor, Goldstone Financial Group, joins John to talk about the market performance this week, how the conflict between Israel and Iran is impacting the economy, what tariffs might do to the market, how much inflation has come down, if the Fed will cut rates in July, the economy being healthy overall, and […]
Segment 1: Julie Smolyansky, CEO of Lifeway Foods, joins John Williams to talk about National Kefir Day, what they are doing to celebrate 40 years in business, how the company brought Kefir to the United States, the cultural relevancy of Lifeway Kefir, how much the company has grown, the expansion into other products, the health […]
Nationally syndicated financial columnist and author Terry Savage joins John Williams to talk about a new report that shows the Social Security retirement trust fund may be depleted in less than a decade, what needs to be done to fix Social Security, and her thoughts on Fed Chair Powell’s interest rate decision. And as always, Terry answers all […]
Welcome to a New Episode of Business Lunch! In this episode, Roland Frasier and Ryan Deiss dive deep into the world of mergers, acquisitions, and private equity. They share insider strategies for selling your business, from understanding platform vs. tuck-in acquisitions to negotiating multiples and avoiding common pitfalls. Whether you're a founder considering an exit, a business owner curious about private equity, or just looking to maximize your company's value, this conversation is packed with actionable insights..Highlights:"People don't buy services, they buy better versions of themselves.""You want to be the platform company, not the tuck-in acquisition.""Private equity is fishing to avoid a process, don't take the first offer.""The more you prove you can acquire and integrate, the higher your multiple."Highlights:00:00 Introduction and Setting the Scene06:05 Facilitators Appreciation and Round Table Rumble07:09 Discussion on Exits and Private Equity08:57 Understanding Private Equity Deals15:57 Negotiation Strategies and Mistakes to Avoid27:06 Preparing for a Successful Exit33:33 Maximizing Company Value for Acquisition37:37 Current Market Trends and Multiples41:27 Strategic Considerations for Selling Your Business46:09 Navigating Acquisition Offers and Due Diligence01:05:25 Connecting with Potential Buyers and Investors01:07:50 Introducing Deanna Rogers and Closing RemarksCONNECT • Ask Roland a question HERE.RESOURCES:• 7 Steps to Scalable workbook • Get my book, Zero Down, FREETo learn more about Roland Frasier
Segment 1: Mark Hamrick, Washington Bureau Chief and Senior Economic Analyst for Bankrate.com, joins John to talk about a new survey that shows 65% of Americans think tariffs would be bad for their personal finances. Mark also talks about the resiliency of the market, and the likelihood the Fed keeps interest rates steady. Segment 2: Dennis Rodkin, residential real estate reporter for Crain's, joins […]
Segment 1: Faron Daugs, CFP, Founder and CEO, Harrison Wallace Financial Group, joins John to talk about the market continuing to weather various storms, the status of President Trump’s tax bill, what we know about Trump’s trade agreements, the consumer feeling pretty good overall, the latest inflation data, and what he expects the Fed to do this […]
Segment 1: Tom Fortino, Founder and Principal, Alpha Wealth Group, and host of “The Alpha Wealth Hour” on WGN Radio, joins John to talk about the impact of the Israel-Iran conflict on the U.S. economy, when the Fed will likely cut interest rates, why the market is still holding up despite all of the uncertainty, what […]
Segment 1: Jason Turner, Chief Investment Strategist for Wintrust Wealth Management, joins John to talk about the fairly benign inflation numbers released this week, corporate earnings continuing to be healthy, and if he believes it’s time to lower interest rates. Segment 2: Bree Fowler, Senior Writer, CNET, joins John Williams to talk about Tesla “tentatively” set to begin […]
Nationally syndicated financial columnist and author Terry Savage joins John Williams to talk about long-term care insurance and what you need to know, what she thinks of President Trump’s plan to give newborns $1,000, and to answer all of your financial questions.
Welcome to a new episode of Business Lunch! In this episode, Ryan Deiss and I delve into the intricate dance between pursuing success and nurturing personal life. As entrepreneurs, the quest for a meaningful legacy often leads us down a path of extremes. We talk about some insights on finding equilibrium amidst the chaos of business growth, family commitments, and personal health. Whether you're scaling the heights of your career or seeking satisfaction in the simple things, this conversation offers valuable perspectives on prioritizing what truly counts.Highlights:"Be intentional about your seasons...that's important.""As long as I'm remembered by the kids, I'm good. It's such an ego thing to me." 3. "Being intentional about what you're doing...you're probably going to be okay." Timestamps:00:00 -Weather & Life's Storms02:22 -The Legacy Question05:55 -Wealth vs. Health07:20 -Entrepreneurial Extremes09:05 -Life's Balancing Act10:00 -Yearly Planning for Balance14:00 -Practical Balance Tips16:02 -Wealth's Diminishing Returns18:08 -100 Million: A Turning Point?20:50 -Legacy's Ephemeral NatureCONNECT • Ask Roland a question HERE.RESOURCES:• 7 Steps to Scalable workbook • Get my book, Zero Down, FREETo learn more about Roland Frasier
Segment 1: Tom Gimbel, job expert and founder of LaSalle Network, joins John to talk the importance of getting feedback at work, and why networking is key when trying to get a job Segment 2: Philippe Weiss, President, Seyfarth at Work, joins John to explain why the most valuable employees of 2025 are ambassadors and anticipators. Segment 3: Carl […]
Segment 1: Ilyce Glink, owner of Think Glink Media and Best Money Moves, joins John Williams to talk about why Chicago is a great place for a staycation, and how low credit scores from student loan debt nonpayment has been impacting homebuying. Segment 2: Jim Dallke, Director of Communications, TechNexus Venture Collaborative, tells John about a Chicago startup that helps disinfect spaces raising […]
Segment 1: Craig Bolanos, Founder and Wealth Advisor at VestGen Wealth Partners, joins John Williams to talk about the good job report, what is driving the market today, the dustup between President Trump and Elon Musk, the outlook for Tesla (and EV’s in general) moving forward, the fantastic run that gold has had recently, what he thinks of […]
Segment 1: Steven Esposito, President of Yellowstone Wealth Management in Lake Forest, joins John Williams to talk about the uncertainty in the market, but how uncertainty can lead to opportunity. Steven also explains why he believes its time for the Fed to cut interest rates. Segment 2: Bree Fowler, Senior Writer, CNET, joins John Williams to talk about […]
Nationally syndicated financial columnist and author Terry Savage joins John Williams to talk about the net return of T-bills, what you need to know about the Trump tax bill, the opposition to the bill by some members of the GOP, the weak ADP jobs report, why you need to join the digital revolution when it comes to your […]
Longtime Chicago radio veteran Harvey Wells, Founder, Lower Tech Bills, talks to John about how he helps customers lower their internet, cell phone, and television costs. And as always, Harvey answers all of your tech questions! First, though, Harvey talks about seeing Bruce Springsteen in France where everybody was sitting down!
Segment 1: Ilyce Glink, owner of Think Glink Media and Best Money Moves, joins John Williams to talk about the strength of the spring housing market, and to break down the data released in the IRS 2024 Data Book. Segment 2: Jim Dallke, Director of Communications, TechNexus Venture Collaborative, tells John about Motorola Solutions paying $4.5B for wireless radio maker Silvus, Chicago’s latest […]
Welcome to Business Lunch! Join Roland and Ryan as they discuss the changing landscape of subscription businesses. This episode is a must-listen for entrepreneurs, business owners, investors, and anyone interested in understanding why the subscription model that once seemed like a golden ticket is now facing serious challenges. Learn how to adapt your business strategy in an era of subscription fatigue and changing consumer preferences.Highlights:"If you're not a utility, you're probably a nice to have.""Consumers don't love subscriptions. Businesses and investors do.""The time to value needs to be measured in minutes, if not seconds.""Shadow Subscription Revenue is the new game in town."Timestamps:00:00 - Introduction 0:01:02 - Discussing the JP Morgan Stock Recommendation0:02:55 - Amazon's Role in Online Purchasing Trust0:06:33 - Subscription Fatigue and Pandemic Impact0:11:51 - Macroeconomic Factors Affecting Subscription Value0:16:47 - Post-Subscription Economy Models0:20:27 - Result-Based Subscription Pricing0:22:34 - Advice for Struggling Subscription Businesses0:25:30 - Valuation and Recurring Revenue Insights0:27:47 - Alternative Approaches to Recurring Revenue0:28:15 - ConclusionCONNECT • Ask Roland a question HERE.RESOURCES:• 7 Steps to Scalable workbook • Get my book, Zero Down, FREETo learn more about Roland Frasier
Segment 1: Paul Nolte, Senior Wealth Advisor and Market Strategist, Murphy & Sylvest, joins John to talk about the decent economic data released this week, how tariffs have been impacting the market, what we know about any trade deals, the likelihood of seeing a recession, how he’s seeing economic growth, what he’s telling his clients right […]
Segment 1: Ivan Gomez, Owner, Mijo's Authentic Mexican Food, joins John Williams to talk about the history of their restaurant, how long they have been in Fox Lake, how the restaurant concept started, what you should order when you visit, and the soul of Mijo’s being the taco. Segment 2: Bree Fowler, Senior Writer, CNET, joins […]
Nationally syndicated financial columnist and author Terry Savage joins John Williams to talk about the implications of AI on the economy, why now is time to do something about your student loans, and President Trump’s reaction to the term ‘TACO Trade.’ And as always, Terry answers your financial questions.
Welcome to a new episode of Business Lunch! On today's episode, Ryan Deiss unpacks the full story behind his viral “retirement” post, a headline that unexpectedly ignited controversy, curiosity, and massive engagement. He shares the real reason behind DigitalMarketer's major pivot, the behind-the-scenes chaos of a misfired email campaign, and the strategic follow-through that turned a happy accident into one of their most successful promotions ever. If you want to learn how to harness viral attention and turn it into real revenue, this episode is a masterclass in doing exactly that.Highlights: “I'm retiring from digital marketing and taking my company down with me.”“It was a forcing function for me to finally stop doing what I always defaulted to.”“We're not training people anymore. We're training AI.”“The post was an accident. What happened after? That was strategy.”Timestamps: 00:00 From 1999 to Now: A Marketing Journey02:42 The Viral “Retirement” Post05:00 The Unexpected Reactions08:19 Why DigitalMarketer Had to Pivot12:41 Email Chaos Behind the Scenes15:00 Handling a Viral Moment in Real Time20:00 Lessons From the Comments Section24:06 What Ryan Would Do Differently Next Time7:32 The 77% Opt-in Rate Town Hall31:53 Retiring With a Final OfferCONNECT • Ask Roland a question HERE.RESOURCES:• 7 Steps to Scalable workbook • Get my book, Zero Down, FREETo learn more about Roland Frasier
Segment 1: Tom Gimbel, job expert and founder of LaSalle Network, joins John to talk about about the importance of showing up for meetings, and what you can learn if you accidentally missed a scheduled appointment. Tom also tells about the recent shift of power from the employees to the employer. Segment 2: Philippe Weiss, President, Seyfarth at […]
Welcome to a New Episode of Business Lunch! In this episode, Roland Frasier and Ryan Deiss dive deep into the world of mergers, acquisitions, and private equity. They share insider strategies for selling your business, from understanding platform vs. tuck-in acquisitions to negotiating multiples and avoiding common pitfalls. Whether you're a founder considering an exit, a business owner curious about private equity, or just looking to maximize your company's value, this conversation is packed with actionable insights..Highlights:"People don't buy services, they buy better versions of themselves.""You want to be the platform company, not the tuck-in acquisition.""Private equity is fishing to avoid a process, don't take the first offer.""The more you prove you can acquire and integrate, the higher your multiple."Highlights:00:00 Introduction and Setting the Scene06:05 Facilitators Appreciation and Round Table Rumble07:09 Discussion on Exits and Private Equity08:57 Understanding Private Equity Deals15:57 Negotiation Strategies and Mistakes to Avoid27:06 Preparing for a Successful Exit33:33 Maximizing Company Value for Acquisition37:37 Current Market Trends and Multiples41:27 Strategic Considerations for Selling Your Business46:09 Navigating Acquisition Offers and Due Diligence01:05:25 Connecting with Potential Buyers and Investors01:07:50 Introducing Deanna Rogers and Closing RemarksCONNECT • Ask Roland a question HERE.RESOURCES:• 7 Steps to Scalable workbook • Get my book, Zero Down, FREETo learn more about Roland Frasier
Segment 1: Liza Lefkowski, Vice President of Merchandising and Stores, Wayfair, joins John Williams to talk about the 1 year anniversary of their first brick and mortar store in Wilmette! Segment 2: Joe Cicero, Director of Marketing and Promotions for the McHenry Outdoor Theater, joins John to talk about the 74th season of the theater! […]
Segment 1: Wendy Reed, Partner at Just Rite IT, joins John Williams to talk about what Just Rite IT does, how they help customers with their technology needs, the most important need for businesses right now, the typical problems they solve, how they ease the day-to-day burden for their clients, and the ways they can […]
Nationally syndicated financial columnist and author Terry Savage joins John Williams to talk about the market clawing its way back from drops earlier in the year, the importance of creating a financial plan from a fee-only fiduciary, and the uncertainty over President Trump’s budget bill. And as always, Terry answers all of your financial questions.
Welcome to a new episode of Business Lunch! In this conversation, Roland Frasier and Ryan Deiss break down one of their favorite business strategies: using partnerships to scale without extra capital or risk. If you're an entrepreneur, founder, or marketer looking to grow your business faster (and smarter), this episode is for you. Roland and Ryan reveal how to create strategic partnerships that can exponentially increase your reach, resources, and revenue without spending a dollar more on ads or infrastructure.Highlights:“If you can't write down the offer in a sentence, it's probably not going to work.”“The best partnerships solve a need for both sides.”“Speed to implementation is everything.”“You get further when you grow together.”Timestamps:00:00 Introduction01:54 A Definition of Partnership Marketing04:40 The Difference Between Affiliate and Strategic Partnerships07:30 How to Identify the Right Partners10:45 Crafting a Compelling Partnership Offer15:10 The 9 Core Areas Where Partnerships Can Drive Growth21:03 Example: Scaling a Software Business Without Spending a Dime26:12 The Importance of Speed and Simplicity31:30 Avoiding the Most Common Pitfalls35:58 Final Advice for EntrepreneursCONNECT • Ask Roland a question HERE.RESOURCES:• 7 Steps to Scalable workbook • Get my book, Zero Down, FREETo learn more about Roland Frasier
Segment 1: Jack Ablin, Chief Investment Officer and Founding Partner, Cresset Capital, talks to John about the big takeaways from Moody’s credit downgrade, the trade agreement between China and the U.S., and the likelihood of a recession in 2025. Segment 2: Phil Mikhaylov, Founder / CEO, Unicorn Auctions, talks to John about their auction platform for […]
Segment 1: Ilyce Glink, owner of Think Glink Media and Best Money Moves, joins John Williams to talk about spring homebuying season sputtering, student loan borrowers throughout the country reporting massive credit score drops, the impact of Moody’s downgrading the credit rating of the United States, and Walmart saying price hikes may come soon because of tariffs. Segment 2: Matt Schultz, LendingTree chief […]
Segment 1: Steven Esposito, President of Yellowstone Wealth Management in Lake Forest, joins John Williams to talk about the market performance this week, the tariff fears being overblown, good economic data being released, why he’s bullish long-term, what sector he’s most interested in, why you need to diversify your portfolio, and what he expects from Fed policy […]
Welcome to a new episode of Business Lunch! In this episode, Roland and Ryan break down how different groups exploit the power of AI, emphasizing the contrast between 'one-shot answer' users and those who have interactive conversations with the technology. Drawing insights from thought leaders like Sam Altman and Stanford professors, they discuss the effectiveness of AI when used interactively, exploring how generational and economic divides influence AI utilization. This episode is essential for anyone wanting to maximize their productivity, learning, and business potential through advanced AI practices. Highlights: "The way you use AI says more about your future than your resume." "Delegate and prioritize high-value time versus lower-value time." "Most younger users expect a multi-step interaction with AI." "Wealthy people value their time more and are comfortable delegating to AI." Timestamps:00:00 Introduction: Maximizing AI Effectiveness01:57 The Role of Executive Function in AI Utilization06:06 Statistics on AI Usage Across Generations10:08 Delegation and Time Management with AI18:07 Valuing Time: A Key to Success22:36 The Value of Delegation and Outsourcing24:08 Using AI to Save Time and Effort27:25 Prompt Chaining and Expert Consultation32:37 Ensuring AI Accuracy and Context39:12 AI as a Business Partner40:55 Engaging with AI for Personal Growth41:29 ConclusionCONNECT • Ask Roland a question HERE.RESOURCES:• 7 Steps to Scalable workbook • Get my book, Zero Down, FREETo learn more about Roland Frasier
Segment 1: Mark Hamrick, Washington Bureau Chief and Senior Economic Analyst for Bankrate.com, talks to John about a new survey that shows nearly half of current homeowners say they have at least one regret about the purchase of their current home. Mark also offers some tips on how you can save money on your home purchase. Segment 2: Aki […]
Nationally syndicated financial columnist and author Terry Savage joins John Williams to talk about the recent stock market rebound, the importance of knowing what you own, and if she believes there will still be some disruption in the economy. Terry also answers all of your financial questions.
Segment 1: Tom Gimbel, job expert and founder of LaSalle Network, joins John to talk about the importance of being prepared, making a good impression, and how you can separate yourself from your peers. Tom also says, ‘taking things for granted is how you get beat.’ Segment 2: Philippe Weiss, President, Seyfarth at Work, joins John to talk about […]
Segment 1: Ilyce Glink, owner of Think Glink Media and Best Money Moves, joins John Williams to talk about the market reaction to the Trump administration announcing tariff cuts, the fallout from the trade negotiations, and why it’s harder to get a car loan right now. Segment 2: Jim Dallke, Director of Communications, TechNexus Venture Collaborative, tells John about Rivian growing its presence […]
Segment 1: Craig Bolanos, Founder and Wealth Advisor at VestGen Wealth Partners, joins John Williams to talk about why the markets are dipping a bit today, the latest on President Trump’s trade deals, the roller coaster the market has been on since President Trump announced his tariff plan, why now is a good time to reevaluate your retirement […]
Segment 1: Nationally syndicated financial columnist and author Terry Savage joins John Williams to talk about the Fed’s interest rate decision, the impact of tariff policy on the economy, the nation running up its credit card debt, the latest on Social Security clawbacks, the Trump administration garnishing wages of 5.3 million defaulted student loan borrowers this summer, and why […]
Segment 1: Business reporter Steve Alexander chats with John about Warren Buffett announcing he will be stepping down and the impact he’s had on the economy. Segment 2: Emily Stewart, Senior Correspondent, Business Insider, tells John how wealthy people are single-handedly warding off a recession. Segment 2: Phillip Shaw, CFP, Senior Advisor, Goldstone Financial Group, joins John […]
Segment 1: Ilyce Glink, owner of Think Glink Media and Best Money Moves, joins John Williams to talk about what we should know about Trump’s proposed budget, why first-time home buyers are coming back, the surprisingly good jobs report on Friday, and President Trump’s plan to reopen Alcatraz. Segment 2: Jim Dallke, Director of Communications, TechNexus Venture Collaborative, tells John about the […]
Welcome to a new episode of Business Lunch! Join Roland Frasier and Ryan Diess as they dive deep into the current business landscape, exploring the surprising shift in consumer preferences towards stability, the challenges of technological innovation, and insights into market uncertainty. This episode is perfect for entrepreneurs, marketers, business owners, and anyone interested in understanding the evolving dynamics of technology, consumer behavior, and business strategy.Highlights:"Stability is becoming the new luxury.""We're experiencing the live development and evolution of AI through major competitors.""Innovation is about buying back time and sanity.""Lean into core features and enhance them as convenience enhancers."Timestamps:00:00 Introduction02:27 Discussion on Market Uncertainty and M&A Activity 05:38 The Shift Towards Stability in Consumer Preferences07:59 Challenges of Keeping Up with Technological Changes 11:16 The Overwhelming Pace of Technological Innovation13:15 Marketing Strategies in an Overwhelmed Market16:12 Addition Through Subtraction: Focusing on Consumer Benefits19:46 Simplifying Product Offerings and Reducing ComplexityCONNECT • Ask Roland a question HERE.RESOURCES:• 7 Steps to Scalable workbook • Get my book, Zero Down, FREETo learn more about Roland Frasier
Segments 1 & 2: Jane Oates, Senior Policy Advisor and recent President at WorkingNation, joins John Williams to talk about the new April jobs report. Jane also touches on manufacturing and its future in America. Segment 3: Reid Sawyer, Head of the Emerging Risk Group at Marsh McLennan, talks with John about risk management and […]
Segment 1: Mark Hamrick, Washington Bureau Chief and Senior Economic Analyst for Bankrate.com, talks to John about the increase in continuing unemployment claims, how tariffs might impact the economy, his thoughts on the GDP decline, if the economy is at a tipping point, and if we are likely to a recession this year. Segment 2: Matt Fiascone, president of Habitat, joins […]
Welcome to a new episode of Business Lunch! Join host Roland as he sits down with Richard Lindner, president of Scalable.co and DigitalMarketer.com, to explore how AI is transforming marketing education and business strategies. This episode is perfect for entrepreneurs, marketers, and business owners looking to understand how to leverage AI tools to streamline operations, create marketing assets, and stay ahead of technological disruption.Highlights:"We are almost universally over traditional training.""How do we disrupt ourselves before someone else disrupts us?""AI is so much easier to train than a person.""We want the client to have zero learning unless they want to."Timestamps:00:00 Introduction01:23 AI Business Transformation - Digital Marketer's Approach04:38 Leads on Demand: AI-Powered Marketing Strategy09:24 Pricing and Access to AI Marketing Tools12:51 How Businesses Can Proactively Disrupt Themselves with AICONNECT • Ask Roland a question HERE.RESOURCES:• 7 Steps to Scalable workbook • Get my book, Zero Down, FREETo learn more about Roland Frasier
Welcome to a new episode of Business Lunch! In this episode, Roland Frasier sits down with Richard Lindner to discuss the evolution of Digital Marketer. Entrepreneurs, marketers, and business owners will gain invaluable insights into adapting business models, overcoming challenges, and leveraging emerging technologies like AI.Highlights:"We don't train humans anymore. We train AI to work for humans.""Define your company by the person you serve, not the product you sell.""AI is changing at the rate at which the internet changed.""If you can't buy it twice, you can't afford it."Timestamps:00:00 Introduction03:33 Professionalizing Internet Marketing07:42 Challenges with Certifications11:45 Exploring Software Development16:26 Redefining the Target Audience22:04 Licensing Intellectual Property25:37 Returning to Community and Training27:34 The Impact of AI on Marketing31:12 Key Business Transformation TakeawaysCONNECT • Ask Roland a question HERE.RESOURCES:• 7 Steps to Scalable workbook • Get my book, Zero Down, FREETo learn more about Roland Frasier
Welcome to a new episode of Business Lunch! Join hosts Roland Frasier and Ryan Diess as they dive deep into the complex world of international trade negotiations. This episode breaks down the current tariff situation, offering invaluable negotiation insights for business owners, entrepreneurs, and anyone interested in understanding high-stakes deal-making.Highlights:"Would you rather be right, or would you rather be rich?""It's just business.""We're not here to start a trade war. We're here to get fair trade.""If you can think longer term, you're probably gonna win."Timestamps:00:46 Setting the Stage: Understanding Trade Negotiations02:19 The Calculus Behind Tariff Strategies06:45 Bringing Difficult Parties to the Negotiating Table11:33 The Importance of Credibility in Negotiations14:58 De-escalating Emotional Tensions18:50 The Art of Escalation and Brinksmanship22:53 Running the Numbers: Scenario Planning26:09 Flexible Positioning and Conditional Pullbacks29:44 Managing Internal Communication35:37 Long-Term Strategic Thinking in NegotiationsCONNECT • Ask Roland a question HERE.RESOURCES:• 7 Steps to Scalable workbook • Get my book, Zero Down, FREETo learn more about Roland Frasier
Welcome to a new episode of Business Lunch! Today, Roland Frasier and Ryan Deiss dive into a viral social media post about management strategies that sparked unexpected controversy. If you're an entrepreneur, business owner, or manager looking to understand how to handle viral content and leverage audience reactions, this episode is for you.Highlights:"Love me, hate me. Both are fine. Just pay attention in some way, shape or form.""The world is lacking people with a truly unique point of view who are willing to defend it.""If you're an entrepreneur, you are your company's best spokesperson.""Attention is what everyone wants."Timestamps:00:00 Introducing the Viral Post01:33 Ryan's Newsletter and Content Strategy03:43 Viral Reach and Initial Reactions06:12 Unpacking the Controversial Management Advice10:29 Strategies for Handling Online Criticism12:56 The Power of Standing by Your Unique Perspective17:42 Personal Reflections on Viral Content22:16 Marketing and Content Recycling Strategies27:16 Leveraging Attention and Audience Feedback35:24 Final Insights on Entrepreneurial CommunicationCONNECT • Ask Roland a question HERE.RESOURCES:• 7 Steps to Scalable workbook • Get my book, Zero Down, FREETo learn more about Roland Frasier
Welcome to a new episode of Business Lunch! Roland Frasier and Ryan Diess dive into the fastest ways entrepreneurs can build wealth, focusing on strategic investments in existing, profitable businesses. They explore how to accelerate financial independence through smart, calculated business acquisitions.Highlights:"Let's make active investing cool again.""If you're looking to retire in 15 years, here's how to do it.""The best investment is going into a business that already exists with a proven track record.""You can buy a $6.2 million business with only $125,000 out of pocket."Timestamps:00:00 Weather Banter and Personal Introductions03:42 Disclaimer: Not Financial Advice05:56 Basic Investment Strategies for Wage Earners09:05 Entrepreneurial Investment Approach12:21 Running the Numbers on Business Investments20:50 Minority vs. Majority Business Investments22:23 Ideal Characteristics of Business Partners25:28 Strategies for Buying Out Burnt-Out Business Owners27:16 Leveraging SBA Loans with Minimal Cash29:43 The Most Effective Path to Financial IndependenceCONNECT • Ask Roland a question HERE.RESOURCES:• 7 Steps to Scalable workbook • Get my book, Zero Down, FREETo learn more about Roland Frasier
Welcome to another episode of Business Lunch! In today's episode, Roland dives into one of the biggest reasons businesses fail to scale: hiring the wrong operators or not hiring them at all. He breaks down the key differences between COOs and CFOs, why founders are often terrible at operations, and how to stop building your company on a house of cards. If you've ever struggled with finance, HR, or finding someone who can truly run the day-to-day operations, this episode is for you.Highlights:“The COO role is the most misunderstood position in the company.”“If you don't have great HR, you don't have a great company.”“Finance is the GPS of your business. Without it, you're driving blind.”“Hiring a fractional CFO before you need one is like turning on headlights before it gets dark—it keeps you safe.”Timestamps:00:00 The Operational Blind Spot01:38 COO vs. Integrator vs. Operator04:57 The Real Job of a COO07:21 Why Founders Suck at Ops09:14 The CFO as Business Strategist12:06 HR: The Most Undervalued Department14:43 Don't Wait to Hire a Fractional CFO17:50 Delegation vs Abdication19:46 How to Audit Your Org Chart22:10 Final Thoughts on Scaling SmarterCONNECT • Ask Roland a question HERE.RESOURCES:• 7 Steps to Scalable workbook • Get my book, Zero Down, FREETo learn more about Roland Frasier
Welcome to another episode of Business Lunch! Hosts Ryan Diess and Roland Frasier dive deep into the current business landscape, exploring how entrepreneurs can navigate economic challenges using strategic thinking and AI technologies. Today's episode offers practical advice for businesses facing uncertain times.Highlights:"Keep rowing. We've got to stay in the game.""AI is the motor that can propel businesses through this season.""Don't build a new boat, optimize the one you have.""If you do not embrace computing, the internet, AI, you will find yourself obsolete."Timestamps:00:00 Introduction01:02 Flight Delay Experiences02:50 Business Downturn Discussion04:47 Entrepreneurial Survival Strategies07:39 Avoiding Business Mistakes12:00 Real-World Business Challenges16:44 Leveraging AI for Efficiency22:47 Reducing Client Workload with AI27:39 How to Create GPTs36:40 The Importance of Technical AdaptationCONNECT • Ask Roland a question HERE.RESOURCES:• 7 Steps to Scalable workbook • Get my book, Zero Down, FREETo learn more about Roland Frasier