Podcast appearances and mentions of Gene Marks

Gene Marks describes a mixed economic picture, noting that a national "slowdown" isn't universally felt, with many small businesses thriving. He highlights challenges like rising healthcare costs, spurring interest in self-insurance and health reimbursement arrangements. Marks discusses AI's impact on the workforce, specifically reducing sales and tech roles in large companies like Salesforce, but predicts a surge in demand for skilled trades not easily replaced by AI. 1920 ROOSEVELT AND COX

CONTINUED Gene Marks describes a mixed economic picture, noting that a national "slowdown" isn't universally felt, with many small businesses thriving. He highlights challenges like rising healthcare costs, spurring interest in self-insurance and health reimbursement arrangements. Marks discusses AI's impact on the workforce, specifically reducing sales and tech roles in large companies like Salesforce, but predicts a surge in demand for skilled trades not easily replaced by AI. 1918

PREVIEW 5: Economic Indicators Show Positive Trends John Batchelor converses with Gene Marks, a columnist for the Guardian and Philadelphia Inquirer, about the economy. He reports strong demand across various regions, noting that demand picked up after the recession. According to ADP data, annual raises average 4.5% for employees staying in their jobs and 7% for those changing jobs, outpacing the 2.5-3% inflation rate. The booming stock market contributes to people feeling wealthier, benefiting the contracting and construction industries.

The Paychex Small Business Employment Watch reports job numbers remain flat, while national hourly earnings stay below 3% growth for a 10th straight month. Gene Marks points to a continued slow down, citing the paltry 22,000 jobs reported by the Bureau of Labor Statistics and a national unemployment rate at 4.3%. However, Gene says this creates opportunity for small businesses to snap up top talent. Also, a survey notes that more than one-quarter of participating employees are seeking financial resources from employers, a perfect time for employers to offer added value. And can entrepreneurship be taught? Gene has some thoughts on to what degree this is possible. Additional resources Make Paychex an extension of your team: https://bit.ly/meet-paychex  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 your business secretly driving away top talent? This episode of THRIVE will tell you how to find out. Join host Gene Marks as he sits down with Paychex HR experts Alison Stevens and Michael Majors to chat about Employer IQ — a game-changing diagnostic tool that reveals exactly where your HR practices are helping or hurting your business. Discover the most common blind spots, learn exactly when it's time to hire your first HR person, and find out how this simple assessment can transform your business from a revolving door into a talent magnet. Ready to find out your Employer IQ? Visit: https://bit.ly/3IedlUq 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 and welcome 01:11 – Employer IQ overview 04:34 – Motivation behind Employer IQ 06:25 – How to use the platform 09:42 – Roll-out strategy 12:19 – Usage scenarios and benefits 14:45 – Future vision for platform 17:23 – Employee input and industry verticals 18:55 – How to access Employer IQ 19:58 – 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.

This week, Gene Marks makes a surprising claim: his business is “unsellable.” Never mind that it's profitable. Never mind that it gave him the freedom to live the life he wanted and that it has left him and his wife financially secure for retirement. According to Gene, the business can't be sold because it's too dependent on him and because it has no IP, no exclusivity, and no moat. But is he right? Aren't those the same challenges faced, for example, by countless HVAC and plumbing companies that private equity firms buy every day? Couldn't Gene make his business sellable if he wanted to? What do you think? Is Gene leaving money on the table? Or has he just chosen the path that's right for him and for his family?

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 more reluctant to use AI than men?…See Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.

Businesses earned a victory for the second time when an appeals court upheld a ruling that the administration's tariffs are unconstitutional. However, Gene Marks says that regardless of an appeal, the bag of tricks is endless to keep taxing businesses with tariffs. And this is on top of the de minimis exemption expiring, meaning any imported goods of less than $800 will also face tariffs. Employers also face disengaged and disenchanted employees experiencing quiet cracking. Gene suggests employers get cracking to offset the 54% of employees whose productivity has declined. Additional resources Make Paychex an extension of your team: https://bit.ly/meet-paychex 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.  

Gartner predicts a significant shift in the adoption of artificial intelligence (AI) within enterprise applications, forecasting that by 2026, 40% of these applications will feature task-specific AI agents. This marks a dramatic increase from less than 5% in 2025, with AI expected to drive around 30% of enterprise application software revenue by 2035. Concurrently, AI-enabled personal computers are projected to dominate the global PC market, claiming over 50% by 2026. Despite market challenges such as high costs and security concerns, businesses are increasingly investing in AI technologies, although consumer sentiment remains cautious, with many waiting for price reductions before making purchases.The podcast also discusses the evolving landscape of AI adoption among small to mid-market businesses. A survey by Techaisle reveals that these companies are prioritizing strategic consulting over mere tool acquisition, seeking comprehensive services that encompass the entire lifecycle of AI implementation. This shift indicates a maturation of the AI services market, as organizations focus on responsible AI use and tailored solutions that address their unique operational needs. However, Gene Marks highlights that many small business owners are still in the experimental phase, using AI tools like chatbots for basic tasks rather than fully integrating AI into their operations.Earnings reports from major tech companies such as NVIDIA, Dell, HP, and CrowdStrike reveal a mixed picture regarding AI's impact on their financial performance. NVIDIA reported substantial revenue growth but faced concerns about an AI bubble and geopolitical tensions affecting its market. Dell's earnings exceeded expectations, but its forecast fell short, while HP noted that a quarter of its PC sales were AI-enabled. CrowdStrike, on the other hand, struggled with a disappointing revenue outlook amid ongoing challenges, including litigation related to an IT outage.The episode concludes with a sobering discussion about the darker implications of AI, highlighting a tragic case where a former Yahoo executive, influenced by AI interactions, committed murder and suicide. This incident raises urgent questions about the psychological risks associated with AI, particularly for vulnerable users. The podcast emphasizes the importance of IT providers in establishing guardrails and policies to ensure safe AI adoption, underscoring that the difference between responsible use and dangerous misuse lies in proper training and oversight. Four things to know today 00:00 Enterprises Race Ahead on AI Agents and PCs, While SMBs Struggle With Strategy and ROI 06:14 Big Tech Shouts “AI,” Wall Street Shrugs — What It Means for SMBs and IT Providers 11:19 Rev.io Enters PSA Market With All-in-One MSP Platform, Betting on AI and Billing Expertise 13:30 Chatbot-Linked Killing Highlights Dark Side of AI and Why Providers Must Set Guardrails  This is the Business of Tech.    Supported by:  https://syncromsp.com/  All our Sponsors: https://businessof.tech/sponsors/ Do you want the show on your podcast app or the written versions of the stories? Subscribe to the Business of Tech: https://www.businessof.tech/subscribe/Looking for a link from the stories? The entire script of the show, with links to articles, are posted in each story on https://www.businessof.tech/ Support the show on Patreon: https://patreon.com/mspradio/ Want to be a guest on Business of Tech: Daily 10-Minute IT Services Insights? Send Dave Sobel a message on PodMatch, here: https://www.podmatch.com/hostdetailpreview/businessoftech Want our stuff? Cool Merch? Wear “Why Do We Care?” - Visit https://mspradio.myspreadshop.com Follow us on:LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/company/28908079/YouTube: https://youtube.com/mspradio/Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/mspradionews/Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/mspradio/TikTok: https://www.tiktok.com/@businessoftechBluesky: https://bsky.app/profile/businessof.tech

Preview: Steel & AI. Colleague Gene Marks comments that steelmakers are cheered by AI because of the vast build out of data centers needing steel. More later. 1959

As news of tariffs comes and go, one recent study found that a majority of small businesses have had zero exposure to international supply chains and 45% source more than half of their materials from their city or state. Gene Marks also talks about high levels of optimism among these businesses. More good news: Manufacturing expanded at its fastest pace in August since 2022. Tempering that is a projected 10% hike in healthcare costs that could create challenges for businesses, so Gene offers tips on how to approach this. Plus, a major jump in AI adoption by small businesses. Webinar: ICE Raids and I-9 Audits: How to protect your business from costly mistakes. (go.paychex.com/i9webinar) 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 Producer Price Index, which is an indicator for the rate of inflation, rose to a point that is significantly higher than it has been recently. This means consumers could be seeing higher costs come their way. However, Gene Marks points out that consumers don't seem deterred. They are spending, and the retail sales uptick bears that out. Small businesses also don't appear worried, as the latest Small Business Optimism Index jumped 14 points while 65% of those surveyed rated their business health as excellent or good. 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 -- like many other business owners -- long ago gave up on trying to promote his business through Google AdWords and why he's hopeful that AI will break Google's monopoly on search. That's nowhere close to happening, but you can see the changes coming with the arrival of Google Overviews and with businesses trying to figure out what it takes to get discovered on ChatGPT. In the meantime, Gene's placing his promotional bets on YouTube.

Preview: AI and Employees. Colleague Gene Marks comments that AI will take jobs away and yet also create jobs. More later. 1904 PITTSBURGH

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.

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

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.

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

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

     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."

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