Ask Brien Show

In this episode of the Ask Brien podcast, co-hosts Peter and Traci dive into the topic of entrepreneurial burnout. Guest Maegan Megginson, a former psychotherapist turned business coach, shares her expertise on recognizing and addressing burnout. She highlights the importance of self-awareness and differentiating between mild fatigue and severe burnout for entrepreneurs. Maegan discusses the concept of "pink flags" as early indicators of burnout and emphasizes the need for balance between personal well-being and professional ambitions. The episode combines humor and practical advice, encouraging entrepreneurs to prioritize self-care to sustain their business success.

IN THIS EPISODE: 

• [2:20] Discussion about the extensive experience of the guests and their business knowledge
• [6:30] Maegan Megginson’s transition from psychotherapy to business coaching
• [10:30] How Maegan finds clients, primarily through email marketing and her newsletter
• [13:00] Maegan talks about her approach to client packages and seasonal offerings.
• [18:05] The signs of burnout versus regular fatigue and specific warning signs to recognize before burnout escalates
• [24:30] The difficulty of seeking help and support in business management.

KEY TAKEAWAYS:

• Entrepreneurs often face a unique set of challenges that can lead to burnout, a state of emotional, physical, and mental exhaustion caused by prolonged stress. The pressure to constantly innovate, manage multiple roles, and maintain financial stability can be overwhelming. Many entrepreneurs find themselves working long hours, sacrificing personal time, and neglecting their health in pursuit of success. This relentless drive, while admirable, can lead to a depletion of energy and enthusiasm, ultimately affecting both personal well-being and business performance.
• Self-care is not just a luxury; it's a necessity for sustainable success. As entrepreneurs, it's crucial to prioritize personal well-being to maintain the energy and creativity needed for business growth. This means setting boundaries, taking regular breaks, and engaging in activities that rejuvenate the mind and body. By investing in self-care, entrepreneurs can enhance their resilience, improve decision-making, and foster a more positive outlook, which in turn benefits their business and personal life.
• Recognizing the early signs of burnout is essential for prevention and recovery. Emotionally, you might experience feelings of detachment, irritability, or a lack of motivation. Physically, symptoms can manifest as chronic fatigue, headaches, or changes in sleep patterns. Being attuned to these signals allows you to take proactive steps to address the underlying causes, such as adjusting workloads, seeking support, or implementing stress-reduction techniques.
• To assess fulfillment, both personally and professionally, it's important to regularly reflect on your goals and values. Ask yourself if your current activities align with your long-term vision and if they bring you joy and satisfaction. Consider conducting a periodic review of your achievements and challenges, and seek feedback from trusted peers or mentors. This introspection can help you identify areas for improvement and ensure that your pursuits are meaningful and rewarding.

LINKS MENTIONED:

Deeply Rested Newsletter

Deeply Rested Podcast

Who Not How by Dan Sullivan

BIO 

We help small business owners heal the personal and collective wounds of capitalism by fostering a sustainable approach to service rooted in deep rest, self-trust, and community care. Our content and offerings are designed to help entrepreneurs restore their sense of well-being while creating resilient, purpose-driven businesses that prioritize people over profits. Together, we’re cultivating an anti capitalist vision of success—one that values collaboration, interdependence, and prosperity for all.

On today’s episode of Ask Brien, Traci DeForge sits down with Jose Berlanga, CEO of Houstonian Capital and Onyx Land Partners. With 35 years of entrepreneurial experience, Jose helps business owners tackle critical questions like breaking even, valuing their time, and managing budgets. As a real estate developer, he’s worked with businesses across industries—from restaurants to oil and gas. Don’t miss insights from his book, The Business of Home Building, available now on Amazon!

IN THIS EPISODE: 

• [5:29] Jose reflects on his early influences, particularly his father's work ethic, which inspired his entrepreneurial journey.
• [8:14] Common misconceptions about entrepreneurship, and why delegation and clear operating procedures are essential for success in any business.
• [18:30] Entrepreneurs must understand business finances and budgeting to ensure long-term success. Jose shares practical advice on how to do this effectively.
• [25:21] Jose discusses the challenges faced by entrepreneurs in estimating costs and the importance of having cash reserves and contingency plans.
• [33:45] Jose shares his book, The Business of Home Building.

KEY TAKEAWAYS:

• As a business grows, the ability to delegate becomes crucial for continued success. Entrepreneurs must learn to trust their team and empower them to take on responsibilities, allowing the business to scale effectively. Holding onto control can stifle growth and lead to burnout, as no one person can manage every aspect of a growing enterprise. By letting go of control and fostering a culture of collaboration, entrepreneurs can focus on strategic decision-making and innovation, driving the business forward.
• Having clear operating procedures and a well-thought-out business plan is essential for guiding a business towards its goals. These tools provide a roadmap for decision-making and help ensure consistency and efficiency in operations. A solid business plan outlines the vision, mission, and objectives of the business, serving as a foundation for growth and adaptation. It also helps in communicating the business's value proposition to stakeholders, including investors, employees, and customers, aligning everyone towards a common purpose.
• Effective financial management is the backbone of any successful business, and budgeting plays a critical role in this process. Entrepreneurs must have a clear understanding of their financial situation, including cash flow, expenses, and revenue projections. A well-structured budget helps in making informed decisions, allocating resources efficiently, and preparing for unexpected challenges. By keeping a close eye on finances, entrepreneurs can ensure the long-term sustainability and profitability of their business.

LINKS MENTIONED:

Find Jose at joseberlanga.com

The Business of Home Building by Jose Berlanga

BIO

Jose Miguel Berlanga originally from Mexico City, arrived in Houston Texas during the mid 80’s where he began his career as an entrepreneur while attending the University of St. Thomas. Now a business owner with over 35 years of experience, Jose Miguel has been the founder and co-founder of numerous successful companies in various fields such as the oil and gas, import/export, service and restaurant businesses, manufacturing, distribution and most known for his involvement in the real estate and residential construction industry.

For the last 26 years he has been the CEO of several construction companies dedicated to investing, designing and developing residential projects. In 1997 he co-founded Tricon Homes turning it into an industry leader with yearly revenues of $100 million. Tricon Homes was a pivotal component in catapulting the revitalization of old neighborhoods as one of the most important pioneers in rebuilding Houston’s inner city. As the CEO, he has structured deals, invested, negotiated land acquisitions and sales transactions in excess of a billion dollars while managing the day-to-day operations building close to 2000 homes to this day.

Jose Miguel is a graduate from the university of St. Thomas with multiple degrees in Business Administration, Economics and Philosophy. Jose’s discipline and methodic approach allows him to create customized strategies to maximize the potential of each project. His passion for business and life have led him to inspire and motivate his teams by being an example and a mentor that consistently delivers results through a strong work ethic.

In this episode of the Ask Brien podcast, hosts Peter and Traci welcome guest Jesse Hernandez Jr. of DepthBuilder.com. Jesse discusses his transition into consulting, focusing on improving communication and productivity in organizations. He opens up about his initial struggles with pricing his services and how a mentor's advice helped him gain confidence. Jesse also talks about handling rate increases with existing clients and the importance of building strong relationships. The episode concludes with insights into Jesse's books and his podcast, The Learnings and Missteps Podcast, offering valuable lessons for aspiring entrepreneurs.

IN THIS EPISODE: 

• [5:16] Meet Jesse Hernandez Jr and learn how he went from an apprentice plumber to construction consultant, focusing on effective communication and productivity 
• [9:37] Landing your first client and building a portfolio of active clients through realistic timelines and tangible results
• [16:37] Jesse reflects on the challenges of overloading himself and the importance of maintaining quality service
• [19:54] An in-depth look into Jessi’s tiered pricing system, designed to manage workload while accommodating client budgets
• [25:19] Jesse explains his approach to increasing rates for existing clients
• [30:57] Jesse’s podcast, "The Learnings and Missteps Podcast”

KEY TAKEAWAYS:

• It is important to learn from other experienced professionals in the industry. You can gain invaluable insight from other entrepreneurs in your field. Mentorship and guidance can accelerate understanding of industry nuances, helping to avoid common pitfalls and providing a clearer roadmap for success.
• Even if you are transitioning into a new field, leverage skills from your background to succeed in consulting. Transferable skills such as problem-solving and project management are crucial, along with the mindset shift required to adapt to a consulting role.
• Networking is critical in building a successful entrepreneurial career. Strategic networking opens doors to new opportunities, and maintaining visibility through various platforms helps establish credibility and brand.
• Acknowledge personal achievements not just for self-recognition, but to enrich conversations with peers and clients. Celebrating milestones can foster deeper connections and inspire others by demonstrating tangible progress and commitment to personal growth.

LINKS MENTIONED:

Ask Brien Podcast

The Learnings and Missteps Podcast

The Learnings and Missteps Podcast on YouTube

Adept Builders and Design - Website

Jesse Hernandez - LinkedIn

Becoming the Promise You're Intended to Be - Book

Lean & Love - 5S Love Letters: A #NoBS Look Into How Your Relationships Create Ripples of Impact - Book

BIO 

Jesus “Jesse” Hernandez is a dynamic personality on a quest to improve the lives of construction leaders, managers, and workers. 

He’s taken the lessons he’s learned firsthand from working in the field on construction sites in Texas, grading ditches and as a plumbing journeyman. He shares these lessons in his training courses, peer groups, presentations, webinars, and podcasts. 

Jesse is also the published author of two books in which he shares his life experiences with us. His first book, "Becoming the Promise You Are Intended to Be," addresses overcoming addiction and improving mental health. Additionally, he wrote Lean & Love with his "No BS with Jen & Jess" podcast co-host Jennifer Lacy, which dives into improving work and personal relationships.

Connect with Jesse on social media at LinkedIn, YouTube, Instagram, Facebook, and TikTok; check out his latest speaking engagements and guest appearances on construction podcasts; or learn more about his training courses and peer groups.

In this episode of the Ask Brien Podcast, hosts Peter and Traci delve into the essentials of business success, focusing on financial management and strategic planning with Michele Williams the Founder and CEO of Scarlet Thread Consulting. Michele shares her journey from financial software development to entrepreneurship. She discusses the creation of a financial dashboard to aid business owners, particularly in the creative industry, in understanding their financial health. The conversation covers hiring strategies, the importance of a strategic plan, and the role of podcasting in marketing. Michele emphasizes financial literacy and adaptability, offering practical advice for navigating economic challenges.

IN THIS EPISODE:

• [5:11] Michele shares her journey in financial software development and her motivation to create a financial dashboard for business owners to understand their finances. 
• [8:04] Michele shares her approach to using SaaS or Software as a Service
• [15:26] Michele explains how her user-friendly software complements existing financial software like QuickBooks.
• [20:03] Entrepreneurs should focus their hiring efforts on business development that align with their strategic goals over administrative roles.
• [23:04] Exploration of how podcasting serves as a crucial marketing element for the business and various ways that content can be repurposed into different marketing materials for different platforms. 
• [28:02] Advice on managing cash flow and adapting to economic fluctuations in business.

KEY TAKEAWAYS:

• Software development can be expensive, so make sure you have a strategic plan that you can build from to create exactly what you are aiming to create.
• It is essential that software is user friendly. If it is not, clients will choose a platform that is easier to use and understand. 
• Having a financial dashboard for your business readily available and easy to understand can be extremely beneficial when making important financial decisions for your business. 

LINKS MENTIONED:

Scarlet Thread Consulting Website

Profit is a Choice Podcast

Michele Williams LinkedIn

Email: [email protected]

BIO

Michele Williams is a serial entrepreneur and speaker on a mission to close the financial literacy gap for small businesses. 

Through her two companies, Scarlet Thread Consulting, a client-facing coaching program, and Metrique Solutions, a robust financial software platform, she supports entrepreneurs to understand their numbers confidently. 

Michele is a champion for creative entrepreneurs (designers, event planners, photographers, etc.), serving as a change agent to facilitate building scalable and profitable businesses. Michele’s empowering work has been applauded by The Business of Home, My Doma Studios, and The American Society of Interior Designers. 

Connect with me today and I will send you details of how to build a scalable Interior Design Business.

This week we were joined by Tony Ulwick, CEO of Strategyn. Tony shares the importance of doing research to understand what potential customers are really looking for and what their current unmet needs are. Instead of spending time testing out several different solutions or products, go directly to the source to see what their needs are, then design a solution around those needs. He talks about how AI can be positively utilized in business and how the business landscape has shifted since COVID. Tony explains how he outsources, and what he recommends for small business owners who don’t have a lot of overhead business expenses. Tune in to learn more and make sure to grab his book Jobs To Be Done for free!

IN THIS EPISODE:

• [5:26] Tony shares his background and where his career started. 
• [9:35] How do businesses know what customers actually want? 
• [15:13] Where did Tony come up with ‘outcome driven innovation’? 
• [20:16] How is AI affecting Tony’s business, Strategyn? 
• [24:05] What was a challenge that Tony faced when starting his own business? 
• [27:08] Why did Tony start outsourcing right away? 
• [29:44] What was the catalyst for Tony to publish his book and what was the process like? 
• [30:57] What do customers want? 

KEY TAKEAWAYS:

• Spend time upfront understanding exactly what job people need done, what they struggle with, and what needs are most underserved. Once you have the top 10 unmet needs, you can come up with the right solutions for your customers.
• AI isn’t something to be feared, it can be a tool to uplevel your business. It’s just another tool in your toolbelt that you can utilize. 
• Outsource what you can, but take the time to wear all the different hats to get a good feel for what the business has to do in its entirety in order to be successful. 

LINKS MENTIONED:

Tony Ulwick | LinkedIn

Strategyn Website

Jobs To Be Done Book - FREE

Email: [email protected] 

BIO

Tony is the pioneer of Jobs-to-be-Done Theory and the inventor of Outcome-Driven Innovation® (ODI), a powerful strategy and innovation process with a documented success rate that is 5-times the industry average. Tony has been granted 12 patents for his game-changing innovation practices, which result in products that help customers get a “job” done better.

Philip Kotler, S. C. Johnson Distinguished Professor of International Marketing at the Kellogg School of Management, Northwestern University says, “I call Ulwick the Deming of Innovation because, more than anyone else, Tony has turned innovation into a science.”

The late Harvard Business School professor Clayton Christensen says, "Ulwick's outcome-driven programs bring discipline and predictability to the often random process of innovation."

Tony began his career with IBM’s PC division in 1981. Witnessing the failure of the PCjr, Tony was inspired to develop a better approach to innovation. Since founding the innovation consultancy Strategyn in 1991, he and his global team of ODI practitioners have led strategy engagements with over one-third of the Fortune 100, helping them generate billions of dollars in revenue growth.

In 2002, Tony introduced Harvard Business Review readers to ODI in the article Turn Customer Input into Innovation. HBR recognized ODI as one of the best business ideas of the year, declaring it one of “the ideas that will profoundly affect business as we forge ahead in today’s complex times.”

Customer experience can make a huge difference in the success of a company, but it often gets overlooked. This week, we are joined by Aransas Savas and Dave Norton of Stone Mantel, a business that helps create better experiences for customers and helps clients create more value. Our guests discuss how they onboard new customers and uncover what their customers are needing in order for them to innovate and create new products. They share how they’ve helped past clients, and what businesses could do today to get them started with future customer expectations. Tune in to learn more about customer experience and how to create a strategy for your business. 

IN THIS EPISODE:

• [5:18] Aransas shares her background before starting her current company. 
• [6:28] Dave shares his background and what led him to start Stone Mantel. 
• [8:17] What type of strategies does Stone Mantel help with?
• [9:31] How do they onboard new clients? 
• [13:08] Are their clients mainly online or do they work with offline companies as well? 
• [16:12] Dave provides an example of work they’ve done to help a company innovate. 
• [18:55] How should companies look at their customer experience journey? 
• [24:38] Dave provides one tip that Business Centers could start today that would help them with future expectations. 
• [27:03] How can you provide intricate detail for customer experience? 
• [32:36] What have been the biggest challenges Dave and Aransas have run into in business? 

KEY TAKEAWAYS:

• Customers need to be understood holistically instead of just in a single moment. Look at their broad desires, wants and needs, don’t just solve a single problem. 
• You really have to listen to your customers' desires and personalize experiences for them. For example, a realtor should really listen to each of their clients and then give a housewarming gift specific to their interests. This will generate great word of mouth and a meaningful experience. 

LINKS MENTIONED:

Stone Mantel's Website

The Experienced Strategist Sub Stack 

Dave Norton | LinkedIn

Aransas Savas LinkedIn

Stone Mantel: Overview | LinkedIn

BIO

There are so many firsts and starting points in the history of our firm. But perhaps the most important was a conversation between Dave Norton, our founder, and Joe Pine, the guy who discovered the Experience Economy.

In 2002, Joe and Dave were partnering on a lot of experience projects. The Experience Economy—the book that launched a million experiences—was one of the hottest-selling business books in the world (and still is). But Dave was struggling with a problem. Every company wanted better customer experiences but most companies were struggling with what was the most strategic way to go about creating experiences that mattered. Should they focus on new channels, new solutions, branding, marketing, technology, physical environments, operations, innovation, design, or something else?  Or . . . all of the above.

When you produce experiences for customers, they affect every part of the company and every other strategic decision.

One afternoon, Dave called Joe and they debated the core definition of experience strategy. Dave said, “I think it’s all about Time Well Spent.” Joe said, “Let me think about that.” He thought about it for a few years and then he agreed.

This week we are joined by marketing expert, Cyndee Harrison. Cyndee has worked with many entrepreneurs and businesses on sharing their stories and creating success in the marketing world. She explains why internal and external messaging is critical, and why your team needs to all be on board with the same mission. Cyndee talks about how podcasting has changed over the last 10 years, and why it can really help to push PR for your business. Tune in to learn some amazing marketing tips! 

IN THIS EPISODE:

• [4:17] What was the catalyst for Cyndee transitioning from working for a person to starting and running her own PR agency? 
• [10:35] Why is telling your story and sharing your story so important to business?
• [12:26] What are the differences in platforms and how to best promote your business?
• [16:45] Cyndee talks about the halo effect.
• [21:53] Why is internal and external communication matching important?
• [25:37] What’s the best way to connect with entrepreneurs and why is it important? 
• [27:24] How does podcasting help with PR? 
• [33:46] What are the first steps you should take when it comes to PR?
• [35:42] What is Cyndee’s biggest challenge she’s had to overcome as an entrepreneur? 

KEY TAKEAWAYS:

• If you are delegating work to members of your team, make sure that the message is the same across all avenues. You want to make sure your core values are known so your messaging can be consistent. 
• It is important as an entrepreneur to align with other like minded entrepreneurs who feel the same way and who understand your mission and values and how you do business. 
• The best opportunity for building your business is to add value as a subject matter expert. 

LINKS MENTIONED:

Podcast Publicist Website  

Ask Brien Radio Show

BIO

CYNDEE HARRISON has worked in marketing agencies for over 20 years, with the notable exception of a 7-year period working full time for a former client whose business and family became the subject of a global reality television show. She has extensive experience in project management, overseeing the branding of diverse organizations ranging from global e-commerce sellers to local pawn shops. She founded Synaptic in 2018 and has won numerous accolades and awards.

Should you form a corporation or LLC immediately when starting a business? This week, our very own Peter Bronstein is discussing how to set up a business correctly, and the impacts that could happen if you don’t. He describes what companies need to know when it comes to written and verbal contracts, and how to best protect yourself. Peter dives into why a business may not create a separate entity and what they are risking. These details apply specifically to California, but are likely similar in other states. Tune in to learn more about the legal side of owning a business. 

IN THIS EPISODE:

• [7:56] What do businesses need to know about verbal contracts?
• [14:50] What should a business know about a written contract?
• [18:23] Why should you create an entity? 
• [24:06] Why would you choose not to create an entity? 
• [27:43] What does it look like to register a trademark? 
• [32:36] How are businesses and owners impacted by taxes?

KEY TAKEAWAYS:

• Your personal assets are protected if you create a corporation or an LLC for your business
• There are two different types of contracts, verbal and written. Both are valid contracts and are upheld in court if necessary
• When it comes to a trademark, if it isn’t registered, then it defaults to the person who has been using it the longest

LINKS MENTIONED:

LA Corporate Attorney Website

Ask Brien Radio Show

BIO

By focusing solely on legal issues affecting businesses, with an accounting degree with his JD, lawyer Peter Bronstein is able to offer informed counsel, detailed planning, clear communication and aggressive representation during negotiations and litigation.

Before creating our law firm, attorney Peter Bronstein spent five years as corporate counsel for Mail Boxes Etc., a major franchisor with national and international locations. He has experience in the inner workings of a business and the challenges that accompany business ownership in California.

Does it feel like you're spinning your wheels to get your business noticed? This week, we have Michelle Griffin on the show who is an expert on branding. As a Personal Brand and PR Advisor, Michelle discusses how to get your name out into the world as a small business and the best way to create a good message for potential clients. She talks about the books she has written, and why they can benefit business owners. Michelle shares some incredible tips for where to start with your small business, how to get noticed, and how to stand out. Tune in to learn more!  

IN THIS EPISODE:

• [6:35] Michelle shares what her business is and provides some details of her background.
• [10:22] How did Michelle get her first customer? 
• [12:10] What are the elements needed to create a good message?
• [13:40] Michelle discusses the books she has written. 
• [15:32] How do you get your business’s name out there with a limited budget? 
• [18:13] Should you focus more on the company’s brand or personal brand?
• [23:06] What are the biggest challenges Michelle sees with her clients following their blueprint?
• [26:06] What are some of the challenges that Michelle ran into when starting and growing her business? 
• [27:58] What did Michelle outsource right away?
• [29:33] What was the catalyst for writing her books? 
• [34:16] How do you come up with a message that is going to resonate with your target audience? 

KEY TAKEAWAYS:

• It is essential to differentiate yourself and your business. Determine how your business is different and why people should choose you over the competitor. Start narrow and get really curious about your ideal client, you can always expand later.
• You need to own your own assets. This could be a podcast, potentially leveraging PR, sharing your message, your transformation, and your solution in a podcast. 
• Lean into what you are good at, because you’ll get a lot more done and a lot faster. Outsource the things that you are not excited about, so you can focus on your zone of genius. 

LINKS MENTIONED:

Michelle B Griffin’s Website

Michelle B Griffin LinkedIn

Standout Women: Personal Branding, PR & Thought Leadership For Female Experts & Entrepreneurs | Podcast on Spotify

The LinkedIn™ Branding Show | Podcast on Spotify

Michelle B Griffin’s Instagram

Ask Brien Radio Show

BIO

Michelle B. Griffin is a personal brand and PR advisor, speaker, and author who guides professional women to position themselves as thought leaders. As the founder of Standout Women, Michelle teaches experts to position their unique value, build personal brands, and amplify their expertise with PR to confidently step out and stand apart in their roles and businesses. She is the author of "The LinkedIn Branding Book" and the upcoming book, "Own Your Lane™ - Create the Category of You," publishing Nov. 19, 2024. Learn more at MichelleBGriffin.com.

There are so many financing options available, sometimes it can feel confusing to know which option would be best for your business. This week, we have Glenn Russo from Avatar Financial Consultants on the show to discuss the various funding options, as well as what to watch out for. He goes in depth on the different financial options and explains what types of business they may be best for. Tune in to understand what may be available to you and how to approach the different loan and funding options. 

IN THIS EPISODE:

• [5:52] Glenn shares his background and why he became a financial consultant.
• [11:43] How can new businesses get set up correctly when they have limited funds?
• [20:50] What are different types of business loans available?
• [26:42] How can you keep pushing through with your business when you want to give up?
• [30:50] What are other funding options that can help a business to scale? 

KEY TAKEAWAYS:

• If you’re in business, you’re probably going to be in many businesses over a period of time, and everyone’s going to remember you for the way you treat them. Be respectful to those you work with!
• Don’t fall for loans or funding that are businesses saying they can have cash in your account the next day. This is likely a cost of money basis and the interest rate will be incredibly high, most businesses cannot survive that type of loan.
• There are many different loan options out there for all sizes of business. Talk with a financial consultant or advisor to determine what the right loan is for your business.

LINKS MENTIONED:

Email: [email protected] - Subject: Ask Brien

Glenn Russo - LinkedIn

Ask Brien Radio Show

BIO

We currently are taking advantage of a special situations that exist high margin & high barrier to entry manufacturing. We and our lenders are industry agnostic.

We find niches unexplored by the crowd - finding an angle to enter a narrow path that captures some value that currently isn't recognized. Many CEOs, investors like follow trends only after firmly established - the comfort to enter a crowded trend is a sign that that trend is about to tire due to carrying so many followers.

We will work with principals, w a great product or idea, who are financially stable but who may not be financially strong. We can help accomplish the principals' goals as quickly as they themselves can act. We can improve organizational skills, and efficiency in the organization and help them realize value that otherwise would go untapped.

We provide and arrange loans and lines of credit for companies needing highly leveraged loans (80%LTC/LTV) for Commercial Real Estate acquisitions and new construction projects in North, South, & C. America, as well as, worldwide.

We have and can arrange loans for companies at 400% of their cash available, or 3x to 8x the EBITDA and for Company Acquisitions. For an owner interested in selling their company, we can help create a buyout structure that will minimize the tax impact of the sale, and defer most of the income received from the sale using multiple paths with the entire strategy reviewed and sanctioned by a top tier law firm to provide peace of mind for the Owner/Seller.

In 1993, I had the pleasure to sit with George Lane while trading. He is the inventor of one of the most popular trading technical indicators called Stochastics. George, later in his years wearing a light-blue leisure jacket, pointed to a historic chart of a long well-formed trend, and said while pointing to the beginning of that trend: "Here 10% of the winners ride to the top (as he moved his finger up the trend of data) on the backs of 90% of the losers." A note: George told me that he and his father sat in the library for many months developing Stochastics with a hand-held calculator and paper and a pencil.

The lesson is to do your homework no matter how tedious or laborious and be the first to make a move if you want to win! The Exit is typically narrow and ephemeral; if you are not the first mover, you are likely a follower left behind as a winning trade for you, the timid latecomer, turns into a loss.