Podcast appearances and mentions of Gene Marks

Small businesses are benefitting from the resiliency and a rise in consumer spending, but how much is really the impact of higher prices? Gene Marks shares the latest data in this episode. He also looks at the top 3 reasons why employers are getting sued by employees, and two of them never seem to change. Big-time corporations such as AT&T and Microsoft have mandated new return-to-office policies. Gene leans toward flexibility as the key to making it work. A recent survey found that nearly three-quarters of employees aren't hunting for jobs, but what that will mean for talent acquisition. 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.

Summary In this conversation, Jason Weber and Mark Butterfield discuss the upcoming Aluminum Summit, highlighting its significance as a major event for the aluminum industry. They delve into the various workshops, networking opportunities, and keynote speakers that will be featured, emphasizing the importance of learning and collaboration within the industry. The discussion also touches on market trends, challenges, and the need for the next generation of professionals in the field. Takeaways The Aluminum Summit occurs every four years, with the next one in September. Networking opportunities at the summit are invaluable for industry professionals. Workshops will cover a wide range of topics, including anodizing and extrusion. The Extrusion Excellence Workshop is a key learning opportunity for attendees. General sessions will address critical industry issues like trade and tariffs. The keynote speaker, Gene Marks, will provide insights on navigating economic challenges. Focus sessions will cater to various aspects of the aluminum industry. Understanding market trends is essential for industry growth and adaptation. The summit aims to foster collaboration between extruders and finishers. Encouraging the next generation of professionals is vital for the industry's future.   For details about the Aluminum Summit Visit - https://members.aec.org/page/aluminum-summit-about

Gene Marks, CPA, business owner, and founder of The Marks Group PC, joins the show to make the case that it's time to rethink how we measure labor in the U.S. With outdated metrics and a changing economy, Gene breaks down what small and mid-sized businesses are really facing and why our national labor stats may no longer tell the full story.

This week, Gene Marks breaks down an economic outlook full of uncertainty. From strong GDP growth battling rising inflation to unexpected job market revisions and the growing impact of tariffs, there's plenty for small businesses to consider. On the brighter side, learn how OSHA's new penalty reductions are bringing relief to employers with safe practices. With cautious optimism for more stable times, Gene offers the insights you need to help your business stay resilient. 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.

Gene Marks sits down with Senior Benefits Manager at Paychex, Tami Tillery, to answer the top questions from a recent webinar on the evolving landscape of employee benefits. They discuss how businesses, particularly in rural and underserved areas, can creatively manage healthcare costs while providing robust employee benefits. A major focus is on leveraging technology and innovative solutions such as telehealth, mobile health units, and AI to enhance employee well-being in a cost-effective manner. Whether you're a small business or a large enterprise, understanding how to effectively manage benefits and costs is crucial. Watch the on-demand webinar, Sustainable Benefit Strategies for Every Business Stage, at: https://bit.ly/4mt98uO Have a question for upcoming episodes or a topic you want covered? Let us know: https://payx.me/thrivetopics Topics include: 00:00: Episode preview 00:41: Overview of the "Sustainable Benefit Strategies" webinar 01:28: Rising healthcare costs insights 02:27: Strategies for rural employers 05:19: Healthcare costs and age groups 07:10: How to pick insurance plan designs from different carriers 10:21: Feasibility and advice for small businesses to offer group insurance 14:33: Getting the right benefits support 20:25: Strategies for rural employers balancing costs and quality 23:50: Predictions on future benefits trends 30:17: 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: Health insurance: Colleague Gene Marks comments that health insurance cost for small business continues to rise each year. More. 1959 FRBRUARY

In this week's episode of the Paychex THRIVE Week in Review, host Gene Marks provides an analysis of current trends impacting small businesses. Highlighting data from the Paychex Small Business Employment Watch and CNBC's Small Business Confidence Index, he discusses the stable job growth and increased economic optimism among small business owners, despite challenges like tariffs. This episode also touches on a noted decline in business transactions, according to BizBuySell, due to economic uncertainties, illustrating a nuanced landscape for small enterprises navigating 2025.   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 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.

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

"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

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