Podcast appearances and mentions of Gene Marks

The SBA continues to make changes to revitalize manufacturing in America, and small businesses could be the biggest beneficiary of new programs, loan access, and training. A CEO of an insurance company throws up a warning flag to small businesses about rising healthcare costs and the potential impact on employees. Gene Marks also talks about how voluntary benefits impact talent acquisition and retention, citing that more than two-thirds of employers think they're important as part of the compensation package. And ethics at the leadership level are influencing employees' decisions to stay or go. Listen to the episode. DISCLAIMER: The information presented in this podcast, and that is further provided by the presenter, should not be considered legal or accounting advice, and should not substitute for legal, accounting, or other professional advice in which the facts and circumstances may warrant. We encourage you to consult legal counsel as it pertains to your own unique situation(s) and/or with any specific legal questions you may have.

In this episode of Main Street Matters, Elaine Parker and Gene Marks discuss the pressing challenges faced by small businesses, including rising costs, cash flow issues, and the impact of high interest rates. They explore the effects of inflation, tariffs, and international trade dynamics on the economy. The conversation also covers the implications of the Tax Cuts and Jobs Act for small businesses, the significance of education freedom, and the challenges of college debt. Additionally, they discuss the benefits of health savings accounts for business owners and the need for fiscal responsibility in government spending.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

PREVIEW: SMALL BUSINESS AMERICA: Colleague Gene Marks reports the optimism in merchants and builders waiting for the economy to improve. More to come. APRIL 1959

Employers are getting wise to their over-employed employees – the ones working multiple jobs on the clock and dime of their main boss. Gene Marks says this type of flexibility might be necessary to keep good employees, and he's OK with it as long as individuals are finishing their work satisfactorily and on time. Speaking of time, Gene points out a report that shows remote workers clocking 2.65 hours less than in-office workers. Plus, Gen Zers scored poorly in financial literacy, startups reach near-historic highs, and small businesses can take a victory lap after winning a lawsuit that allows for the continuation of auto-renewals on subscriptions and memberships. Listen to the podcast. DISCLAIMER: The information presented in this podcast, and that is further provided by the presenter, should not be considered legal or accounting advice, and should not substitute for legal, accounting, or other professional advice in which the facts and circumstances may warrant. We encourage you to consult legal counsel as it pertains to your own unique situation(s) and/or with any specific legal questions you may have.

With the tax and spending bill now law, there is much the government needs to do to implement the changes that include many tax deduction carryovers made permanent from the Tax Cuts and Jobs Act of 2017. Gene Marks offers his take, noting businesses should prepare to take advantage of changes to bonus depreciation and research and development – both now returned to 100%. Business owners will have a cap increase of $2 that will be tax exempt on their estates. Plus, employers should plan for changes to the taxes on overtime and tips for eligible employees. Check Out Additional Content Article: https://bit.ly/tax-and-spending-bill Upcoming Webinar: https://bit.ly/tax-bill-webinar DISCLAIMER: The information presented in this podcast, and that is further provided by the presenter, should not be considered legal or accounting advice, and should not substitute for legal, accounting, or other professional advice in which the facts and circumstances may warrant. We encourage you to consult legal counsel as it pertains to your own unique situation(s) and/or with any specific legal questions you may have.

Step onto the floor of the AICPA Engage 2025 conference in Las Vegas with THRIVE! On this special best-of episode, host Gene Marks chats with accounting's brightest minds, uncovering insights on AI, change management, recruiting, and the future of the profession. From Mark Koziel's take on why AI won't replace accountants to Sabrina Parris' surprising connection between beekeeping and bookkeeping, this episode is your backstage pass to the conversations shaping accounting. Check out our suite of tools and resources designed to help financial advisors serve clients with confidence: https://bit.ly/4mQhPjR Have a question for upcoming episodes or a topic you want covered? Let us know: https://bit.ly/3U4NPEA Topics include: 00:00 – Episode preview and welcome 00:37 – Mark Koziel, president and CEO, AICPA 06:08 – Daniel Hood, editor-in-chief, Accounting Today 09:26 – Nicole Ksiazek, senior director, Sage 13:53 – Roman Kepcyk, director of firm technology strategy, Rightworks 16:17 – Sabrina Parris, president, Honeycomb State Tax Strategies 21:08 – Calvin Harris, CEO, New York State Society of CPAs 24:40 – Jeremy Wortman, owner, HRD Initiatives 29:15 – Sherron Permashwar, principal and CPA, BMP Tax and Accounting Services  32:47 – Wrap up DISCLAIMER: The information presented in this podcast, and that is further provided by the presenter, should not be considered legal or accounting advice, and should not substitute for legal, accounting, or other professional advice in which the facts and circumstances may warrant. We encourage you to consult legal counsel as it pertains to your own unique situation(s) and/or with any specific legal questions you may have.

That's what Gene Marks thinks. In this week's conversation, Gene lists the tax changes in President Trump's big beautiful bill that he's happiest about, while emphasizing that what he's really happiest about is the tax certainty that passage of the bill creates for business owners. Gene also explains why he thinks owners who complain about Trump's tariffs have no one to blame but themselves and why he's not all that concerned about the uncertainty the tariffs are generating, including what will happen this week when Trump's Liberation Day pause expires.

Host Shirley Rooker speaks with Gene Marks of the Marks Group, who discusses artificial intelligence and its impact on small businesses. And we address the question: are women morereluctant to use AI than men? A recent study has the answers.See Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.

As consumer confidence backslides in June, surprising analysts whose projections were more positive, businesses should plan for a potential pause in purchasing. Tariffs and inflation fears are hitting Main Street. Gene Marks points to the steady job growth reported in the Paychex Small Business Employment Watch during the first half of 2025 as a plus but wage growth lags behind inflation. A new cyber threat involves employee handbooks, so Gene suggests shoring up training, and for all those leaning heavily into AI to write, the CEO of LinkedIn says it's not great and could hurt credibility. Listen to the podcast. Check Out Additional Content Article: https://bit.ly/tax-and-spending-bill Upcoming Webinar: https://bit.ly/tax-bill-webinar Report: https://bit.ly/smb-employment-watch DISCLAIMER: The information presented in this podcast, and that is further provided by the presenter, should not be considered legal or accounting advice, and should not substitute for legal, accounting, or other professional advice in which the facts and circumstances may warrant. We encourage you to consult legal counsel as it pertains to your own unique situation(s) and/or with any specific legal questions you may have.

As the Federal Reserve holds steady on the key bank lending rate, host Gene Marks says businesses might take wind with the hint that the interest rate might be cut two more times in 2025, making funding more accessible. Small businesses might soon have more accessibility to more talent, as big companies are looking at making labor cuts. The local economy might take a hit with job cuts, but it does ease labor pressures for some. Also, a recent survey shows that many older owners are willing to sell their business but do not have a succession plan – 54%, in fact, lack one. Meanwhile, Millennial and Gen Z buyers are out there, so the time might be right. DISCLAIMER: The information presented in this podcast, and that is further provided by the presenter, should not be considered legal or accounting advice, and should not substitute for legal, accounting, or other professional advice in which the facts and circumstances may warrant. We encourage you to consult legal counsel as it pertains to your own unique situation(s) and/or with any specific legal questions you may have.

This week, Gene Marks tells us why he's skeptical of corporate CEOs like Amazon's Andy Jassy who have started telling employees that they are likely to lose their jobs as the company continues to adopt tools that use artificial intelligence. Gene thinks CEOs who blame AI for corporate layoffs are really covering for bad management. In fact, he thinks anyone who is already replacing employees with AI is a fool. On the other hand, Gene tells us he's incorporating AI tools into almost every aspect of his business, and he gives us some examples.

Consumers are less pessimistic about inflation, down from its four-decade high last month. Experts say consumers have settled in after shock of tariffs. In more good news, housing market inventory rises 31.5%, giving other industries and small businesses that rely on vibrant neighborhoods some hope that there is a positive path forward. Gene Marks also shares news about the injuries to first-year employees and stresses the need for more safety training. Listen to the podcast.   DISCLAIMER: The information presented in this podcast, and that is further provided by the presenter, should not be considered legal or accounting advice, and should not substitute for legal, accounting, or other professional advice in which the facts and circumstances may warrant. We encourage you to consult legal counsel as it pertains to your own unique situation(s) and/or with any specific legal questions you may have.

On the one hand, Gene Marks tells us this week that the GOP tax bill that has passed the House and is being debated in the Senate contains a lot of elements that should cheer business owners. Specifically, the pass-through deduction would get extended and increased, the capital-equipment deduction would go back to being 100-percent deductible in the first year, and the research-and-development deduction would also go back to being fully deductible in the first year. On the other hand, Gene believes the Big Beautiful Bill is going to be a big ugly problem for business owners. But I'll let him explain.

The U.S. Senate might have a battle to get all president's requests in tax and spending cut bill as opposition forms in the GOP over the massive deficit it will create. Gene Marks agrees that there will be a price to pay. There's also a movement to eliminate requiring some degrees for jobs, with 84% who have done so acknowledging positive results. The SBA launches portal to connect manufacturers and suppliers with businesses seeking U.S. products. DISCLAIMER: The information presented in this podcast, and that is further provided by the presenter, should not be considered legal or accounting advice, and should not substitute for legal, accounting, or other professional advice in which the facts and circumstances may warrant. We encourage you to consult legal counsel as it pertains to your own unique situation(s) and/or with any specific legal questions you may have.

Preview: Colleague Gene Marks introduces the Google Gemini translator that can be contained in earpods. More later. AUGUST 1958

The U.S. House of Representatives passed the tax and spending bill by one vote, but small businesses could gain a few positives if some of the provisions survive the Senate debate and reconciliation should it pass that chamber of Congress. Gene Marks highlights the proposed changes to bonus depreciation, the pass-through tax deduction, and revisions to research and development costs as potential wins for small businesses, and he says he thinks these provisions will remain. Listen to the podcast. DISCLAIMER: The information presented in this podcast, and that is further provided by the presenter, should not be considered legal or accounting advice, and should not substitute for legal, accounting, or other professional advice in which the facts and circumstances may warrant. We encourage you to consult legal counsel as it pertains to your own unique situation(s) and/or with any specific legal questions you may have.

This episode was recorded prior to the House passing the Big Beautiful Tax Bill on May 22, 2025. Gene Marks shares insights on the Big Beautiful Tax Bill and on the importance of keeping the tax credits for small businesses. That might lift their spirits but, according to the Small Business Optimism Index, not much else is rosy. Sales volumes are down, plans for capital outlay are down, and that has optimism down for a fourth month. Gene also talks about the buy-now pay-later service Klarna doing a 180-degree turn, choosing human hires over AI after going all in on AI three years ago. DISCLAIMER: The information presented in this podcast, and that is further provided by the presenter, should not be considered legal or accounting advice, and should not substitute for legal, accounting, or other professional advice in which the facts and circumstances may warrant. We encourage you to consult legal counsel as it pertains to your own unique situation(s) and/or with any specific legal questions you may have.

The U.S. and China begin the tariff walk-back dance that will last for 90 days, giving businesses time to make alternative plans. Gene Marks says those doing business with China will have to make plans because he doesn't expect the volatility being created to clear up soon. Additional relief is coming for businesses who use independent contractors, as Gene explains that the USDOL will stop enforcing the 2024 Independent Contractor Rule. Owners can help employees in default with student loans by taking advantage of tax credits in place through 2025, and Gene shares how. Listen to the episode.   DISCLAIMER: The information presented in this podcast, and that is further provided by the presenter, should not be considered legal or accounting advice, and should not substitute for legal, accounting, or other professional advice in which the facts and circumstances may warrant. We encourage you to consult legal counsel as it pertains to your own unique situation(s) and/or with any specific legal questions you may have.

This week, Gene Marks -- normally a fan of automating anything that can be automated — says it's too soon to think about turning important tasks over to artificial intelligence bots, mostly because they're still making too many mistakes. In fact, Gene cites a survey of business leaders who said they came to regret offloading employees in favor of AI. In many cases, those leaders wound up trying to re-hire their employees. Plus: Gene also talks about how businesses using AI can get into regulatory trouble if they're not careful.

Preview: Colleague Gene Marks comments on the report that owners who dismissed workers thinking of AI workarounds now regret. More later. 1959

As the president begins to walk back on some of the tariffs with China, Gene Marks says what will remain after negotiations are still significantly high percentage rates on goods coming in from China, which will still impact many U.S. businesses. He also shares insights from economists looking at interest rates and how a risk of recession and lost jobs caused by tariffs might push the Federal Reserve to nudge the rates down. And for entrepreneurs, the best place for start-ups is Florida, which has five of the top six cities based on certain criteria. Sunny days ahead in the Sunshine State. Listen to the podcast. DISCLAIMER: The information presented in this podcast, and that is further provided by the presenter, should not be considered legal or accounting advice, and should not substitute for legal, accounting, or other professional advice in which the facts and circumstances may warrant. We encourage you to consult legal counsel as it pertains to your own unique situation(s) and/or with any specific legal questions you may have.

This week, Gene Marks highlights some recent tech developments, including: Quickbooks is selling a lifetime version of its software for just $250. Microsoft has reintroduced its somewhat controversial Recall AI tool, which captures and indexes screenshots of user activity every three seconds—a function that is intended to improve cybersecurity but that has raised some interesting questions. Plus: Gene explains how—if you have the time and money—you can now connect the various software platforms you use and turn them into a smart AI assistant.

Tariffs are a major concern for some major industries and confidence is waning, with 40% of contractors worried about slowdowns to profit margins and auto dealers seeing rapid sales declines. Gene Marks says negotiations between nations could resolve much of this, but China remains an issue. He also shares insights to work on culture and employee check-ins as more than half the nation showed up in a study as sufferers of “quiet cracking” – a slow and steady dissatisfaction with the workplace. Gene also agrees with tech analysts that in the fast-paced AI world, businesses should take a slower approach to rolling out the solutions to ensure more understanding and governance. Listen to the podcast. Article - Tariffs: What Business Should Know to Prepare - https://bit.ly/4cAiT6H DISCLAIMER: The information presented in this podcast, and that is further provided by the presenter, should not be considered legal or accounting advice, and should not substitute for legal, accounting, or other professional advice in which the facts and circumstances may warrant. We encourage you to consult legal counsel as it pertains to your own unique situation(s) and/or with any specific legal questions you may have.

Preview: Colleague Gene Marks recommends small business owners seek guidance if they are dependent upon suddenly impractical PRC supply chains. More" 1958

As the on-again, off-again, and then partial pause on tariffs dominate the news, Gene Marks level sets which ones are in effect and what businesses need to know moving forward. Also, as corporate bankruptcies hit their highest number since 2010, Gene points to a specific industry – trucking and logistics – and the ensuing layoffs that could tell us more about the economy than other data. And the Spotify CEO's announcement on AI and hiring is a misstep, according to Gene. DISCLAIMER: The information presented in this podcast, and that is further provided by the presenter, should not be considered legal or accounting advice, and should not substitute for legal, accounting, or other professional advice in which the facts and circumstances may warrant. We encourage you to consult legal counsel as it pertains to your own unique situation(s) and/or with any specific legal questions you may have.

This week, Gene Marks offers some suggestions for how businesses can survive President Trump's trade war. Those suggestions include exploring free-trade zones, raising prices strategically, scouring the world for alternative suppliers, and getting out of China. Despite all of the disruption and upheaval, Gene continues to believe that the long-term gain will be worth the short-term pain.

U.S. Labor Department data shows job starts exceeding expectation in March, while the Paychex Small Business Employment Watch indicates job levels are consistent with previous months. Does this indicate a better outlook? Gene Marks talks about it in this episode, but also says the economy might be influenced by the 14% of employers who are decreasing salary offers and another 20% are scaling back on raises. Businesses with loans from the SBA also must contend with changes in programs that include increased fees for popular 7(a) loans. Listen to the podcast. Resources: Paychex Small Business Employment Watch - https://bit.ly/4lG7hTV DISCLAIMER: The information presented in this podcast, and that is further provided by the presenter, should not be considered legal or accounting advice, and should not substitute for legal, accounting, or other professional advice in which the facts and circumstances may warrant. We encourage you to consult legal counsel as it pertains to your own unique situation(s) and/or with any specific legal questions you may have.

Is complexity holding your team back? On this episode of THRIVE, Gene Marks chats with Lisa Bodell, keynote speaker, author of Why Simple Wins, and CEO of FutureThink, to explore how simplifying business processes can spark innovation and boost engagement. Lisa shares actionable strategies to make your workplace simpler and more productive — from cutting down on unnecessary emails to rethinking meetings and decisions. Plus, discover her powerful “Kill a Stupid Rule” exercise, a proven method that has helped businesses save time, resources, and improve employee satisfaction. Simplicity isn't just a trendy idea — tune in to hear why it's the secret to business success. Looking to simplify HR? Consider the benefits of outsourcing: https://bit.ly/42JG7mr Learn how AI can help streamline the daunting task of recruiting: https://bit.ly/3FX9tpv Topics include: 00:00 – Episode preview and welcome 00:55 – Overview of Lisa's work and clients 02:48 – Addressing email overload 04:27 – The process of simplifying an organization   05:54 – Role of AI in simplification  08:19 – Areas in business prone to complexity 09:06 – Simplification in different business sizes 12:00 – Good friction vs. unnecessary complexity  14:01 – Gene and Lisa talk to-do lists 16:56 – Surprising clients 22:17 – Measuring simplicity's impact 24:10 – Tips for more effective meetings 24:58 – Wrap up and thank you DISCLAIMER: The information presented in this podcast, and that is further provided by the presenter, should not be considered legal or accounting advice, and should not substitute for legal, accounting, or other professional advice in which the facts and circumstances may warrant. We encourage you to consult legal counsel as it pertains to your own unique situation(s) and/or with any specific legal questions you may have.

Preview: Colleague Gene Marks comments on the old-fashioned mission-directed management style of Elon Musk. More later 1958

On this week's episode of the Paychex THRIVE Week in Review, host Gene Marks talks about key news items affecting small businesses. Recent surveys from MetLife, the US Chamber of Commerce, Viking Cloud, and the US Census Bureau, focus on three main topics: a slight decline in the small business index due to softening in business health and cash flow; cybersecurity concerns, notably a report that 40% of cybersecurity teams haven't disclosed breaches, risking compliance and increasing vulnerability; and a looming succession planning crisis as many business owners near retirement age without clear plans for their businesses' futures. Gene emphasizes the high concerns among business owners about inflation, particularly its record-high impact, and the urgent need to address these trends. DISCLAIMER: The information presented in this podcast, and that is further provided by the presenter, should not be considered legal or accounting advice, and should not substitute for legal, accounting, or other professional advice in which the facts and circumstances may warrant. We encourage you to consult legal counsel as it pertains to your own unique situation(s) and/or with any specific legal questions you may have.

The outlook from the Federal Reserve is that everything is on target, so they aren't budging interest rates. Not great news, according to Gene Marks, for small business trying to secure cheaper funding, but at least they feel the economic outlook is good. Over at the EEOC, executive orders from the new administration have businesses scrambling around DEI activities. Plus, Paychex releases a report on small business sentiment around AI, finding 72% have a good attitude toward its use. And any excuse you are using to get out of work might have been used 3,200 years ago. Listen to podcast for more details. AI for Small Businesses: Impact and Sentiment - https://bit.ly/4liZCuz DISCLAIMER: The information presented in this podcast, and that is further provided by the presenter, should not be considered legal or accounting advice, and should not substitute for legal, accounting, or other professional advice in which the facts and circumstances may warrant. We encourage you to consult legal counsel as it pertains to your own unique situation(s) and/or with any specific legal questions you may have.

Preview: Colleague Gene Marks reports the positive outlook of small businesses for the next year. More. 1871 MONTANA

Despite being at historic high levels, small businesses optimism dropped last month and recorded its second-lowest reading for uncertainty in the history of the National Federation of Independent Businesses. Gene Marks says we need to keep an eye on this. He also shares details of how boycotts don't always impact those being boycotted. Plus, learn how a comedy club is helping comedians get a laugh. DISCLAIMER: The information presented in this podcast, and that is further provided by the presenter, should not be considered legal or accounting advice, and should not substitute for legal, accounting, or other professional advice in which the facts and circumstances may warrant. We encourage you to consult legal counsel as it pertains to your own unique situation(s) and/or with any specific legal questions you may have.

This week, Gene Marks explains why he thinks business owners should be patient. Gene says that whatever economic pain they may be experiencing right now will be worth it in the long run, and that's because he believes President Trump is taking necessary steps to fix the economy and level the international-trade playing field, which will greatly benefit small businesses over time. (Podcast host's note: I do have a few questions for Gene about that.)

The chair of the Federal Reserve said that Americans should expect economic fluctuation and inflation while adjusting to the implementation of new policies, but the target of 2% is on track. Gene Marks comments on that while noting that the Paychex Small Business Employment Watch continues to show moderate job growth but stagnant hourly earnings growth. In a surprising turn, the new administration appealed a court's decision on the Biden-era Overtime Rule, but Gene said that is a maneuver to secure the agency's decision-making powers and not to hang onto the salary threshold. DISCLAIMER: The information presented in this podcast, and that is further provided by the presenter, should not be considered legal or accounting advice, and should not substitute for legal, accounting, or other professional advice in which the facts and circumstances may warrant. We encourage you to consult legal counsel as it pertains to your own unique situation(s) and/or with any specific legal questions you may have.

Another week, another set of tariffs against normal trading partners – and these steeper than the previous ones. However, host Gene Marks says businesses might be able to defer paying the extra cost by using bonded warehouses and several other avenues. He also shares that the SBA Director Kelly Loeffler plans, among her top 3 items, an extensive audit of the agency and its practices, while the mass layoffs at the IRS could impede timeliness of processing tax returns. Listen to the podcast. DISCLAIMER: The information presented in this podcast, and that is further provided by the presenter, should not be considered legal or accounting advice, and should not substitute for legal, accounting, or other professional advice in which the facts and circumstances may warrant. We encourage you to consult legal counsel as it pertains to your own unique situation(s) and/or with any specific legal questions you may have.

The housing experts around the nation are not happy with the latest numbers – inventory up 28% but nothing is selling, while builders and architects report their sentiment indexes hit recent lows. Gene Marks says this is the news that worries small businesses that rely on that housing industry. Our host also shares the Beneficial Ownership Information reporting is back after a court ruling, and now with a deadline in mid-March. And Crunchbase, a longtime resource for which startups were looking for money, has switched gears to use AI and its data to predict business outcomes. Listen to the podcast. DISCLAIMER: The information presented in this podcast, and that is further provided by the presenter, should not be considered legal or accounting advice, and should not substitute for legal, accounting, or other professional advice in which the facts and circumstances may warrant. We encourage you to consult legal counsel as it pertains to your own unique situation(s) and/or with any specific legal questions you may have.

On this episode Joe speaks with Gene Marks about how the DOGE initiative is shaking up government spending and prompting a reexamination of fiscal policies that impact the accounting profession and small businesses. Gene breaks down the effects of IRS layoffs and ERC uncertainties offering strategic insights for navigating these turbulent economic shifts. About Gene Marks A past columnist for both The New York Times and The Washington Post, Gene now writes regularly for The Hill, The Philadelphia Inquirer, Forbes, Entrepreneur Magazine, The Washington Times, and The Guardian.  Gene has written 5 books on business management, specifically geared towards small and medium sized companies. His most recent is Want More Cash?: 100+ Ideas And Strategies For Increasing Your Company's Cash Flow This Year. Gene owns and operates the Marks Group PC, a highly successful ten-person firm that provides technology and consulting services to small and medium sized businesses.  Gene also hosts a very popular podcast with Paychex. To listen to the latest episodes, visit www.paychex.com/podcasts Resources mentioned during the show Gene Marks' consolidated website The World Trade Center Association Walter Isaacson's biography on Elon Musk Thank you to our show sponsor, Truewind! Truewind is a next generation AI-powered accounting platform. Adhering to the highest standards of data security, Truewind's close management platform automates routine tasks and finishes your monthly close with time to spare. Learn more about the show and our sponsors at Woodard.com/podcast

The workplace is evolving faster than ever — are you keeping up or getting left behind? This week on THRIVE, Gene Marks chats with Steve Cadigan, author of Workquake and LinkedIn's first Chief HR Officer, to break down the new rules of work. From career pivots to building a culture that spans four generations, Steve dives into the seismic shifts redefining the employer/employee relationship. He also offers fresh takes on performance reviews, the value of college degrees, and using AI to empower teams (not replace them). Listen now to discover new strategies and ideas for navigating the future of work. Topics include: 00:00 – Episode preview and welcome 01:22 – Macro trends driving workplace change 02:26 – Changing workforce psychology 03:55 – Steve Cadigan's background 05:10 – Developing culture within a multi-generational workforce 07:59 – Strategies for motivating employees 11:36 – Reevaluating performance reviews 13:43 – The value of college degrees 17:22 – Remote work perspectives 19:49 – Advice for organizations on remote work 23:29 – The impact of AI in the workplace 25:28 – Wrap up and thank you 11 hiring, recruiting, and talent acquisition trends on the rise: https://bit.ly/4gVH2Fo The most pressing HR technology trends that are likely to shape the future of HR in 2025 and beyond: https://bit.ly/4igMG65 DISCLAIMER: The information presented in this podcast, and that is further provided by the presenter, should not be considered legal or accounting advice, and should not substitute for legal, accounting, or other professional advice in which the facts and circumstances may warrant. We encourage you to consult legal counsel as it pertains to your own unique situation(s) and/or with any specific legal questions you may have.

This week, Gene Marks suggests it's time to take a look at whether there's still a need for the Small Business Administration. Gene, who thinks the SBA has ignored its core market, would shift the agency's disaster loans to FEMA and its smallbiz lending to the Commerce Department and get rid of most of the other programs -- programs he says most of the business owners he knows are only vaguely aware of and rarely if ever use.

     PREVIEW: Colleague Gene Marks comments on the high likelihood that AI will take over tax preparation in the near future. More later 1948

This week, Gene tells us that he's been spending too much time doing and not enough time thinking. So he's made a plan to free up some time to focus on the more important, big picture issues that sometimes get lost in the day-to-day. How will he free up the time? By getting out of the office more, by leaning more into tech, and by being more deliberate about how much time he spends with customers. Plus: Gene also shares a few highlights (and lowlights) from a Microsoft AI trade show -- including the Microsoft employees who don't trust their own AI.

"PREVIEW: AI: Colleague Gene Marks reports on a Microsoft AI event showcasing tools for small and medium-sized businesses. More tonight."

Today on “The Building Code,” Charley is a lone host sitting down with Gene Marks, founder of The Marks Group. Gene is renowned keynote speaker and national business columnist presenting at over 70 live events each year. He's also a best-selling author, CPA, business owner, and national business columnist for “The Guardian,” “Forbes,” “Entrepreneur” and more, Gene has spent the past 25 years running a very successful business. Listen to the full episode to hear Gene's strategies for managing overhead costs and securing financing to ensure operational stability and growth.   Visit his website to connect with Gene and learn more about the partnership opportunities: https://www.genemarks.com/   Check out some of Gene's resources and his consulting services: https://genemarks.medium.com/ https://www.genemarks.com/consulting/   You can also go to The Marks Group to learn more about CRM and access resources: https://www.marksgroup.net/   Attend the 2025 International Builders' Show in Las Vegas coming up at the end of February: https://www.buildersshow.com/   Get your free IBS expo pass on us and start planning your trip: https://buildertrend.com/ibs2025/   Read the shownotes for this episode here: https://buildertrend.com/podcast/the-building-code/254-gene-marks/   Join “The Building Code” Facebook group: https://www.facebook.com/groups/thebuildingcodecrew/   FACEBOOK: https://www.facebook.com/buildertrend/ INSTAGRAM: https://www.instagram.com/buildertrend/  TWITTER: https://twitter.com/Buildertrend/ YOUTUBE:  / @buildertrend LINKEDIN: https://www.linkedin.com/company/buildertrend #Buildertrend #BuiltWithBuildertrend #ConstructionSoftware

This week, having long encouraged small business owners to support President Trump's pro-business agenda, Gene Marks says those policies are likely to produce a tough year for owners. In a conversation recorded shortly after the president announced that tariffs on Canada, Mexico, and China are about to take effect, Gene tells us that he thinks business owners are too optimistic about the immediate impact of the Trump policies. In the year ahead, Gene expects those policies to produce change, uncertainty, and pain. That said, he still supports the policies.

PREVIEW - LAS VEGAS RECOVERY Colleague Gene Marks comments on positive increase of traffic in Las Vegas, though not quite at 2019 levels. More details to follow. 1940 CLARK COUNTY, NV

PREVIEW: AI: Colleague Gene Marks recommends that small businesses prepare defenses from Artificial Intelligence gone astray - such as poaching copyrighted material without correct attribution. Recommends a written company policy that is kept updated. More later 1930

PREVIEW: AI: Colleague Gene Marks presents how the major companies are preparing AI Agents to replace workers, more tonight. 1956

PREVIEW: AI AGENTS Colleague Gene Marks reports that AI agents capable of handling website inquiries with interactive memory and processing capabilities represent the next key development for small business automation. More tonight. 1941

Preview: Work From Home (WFH): Colleague Gene Marks comments on the expectation that DOJ may require federal employees to return to the office five days a week. More later. 1939 NYSE