In this episode of Grow Your Business & Grow Your Wealth, Gary Heldt interviews Chris Troka, founder of Focused-Biz, a marketing and automation agency helping small businesses access the same powerful tools and resources as large corporations.

Chris Troka shares his entrepreneurial journey from running an award-winning wedding DJ business to pivoting during COVID-19 to launch Focused-Biz, a marketing and automation agency. With a background in marketing and a passion for helping small businesses compete with larger corporations, Chris explains how he's leveraging AI and marketing automation to level the playing field for entrepreneurs and solopreneurs.

→ Marketing expertise is often what business owners lack most - they may excel at their craft but struggle with marketing and sales fundamentals.

→ When optimizing websites, focus on customer experience rather than keyword stuffing - reducing friction in the buyer's journey is essential.

→ AI tools can dramatically improve content creation, personalization, and customer service efficiency without requiring deep technical knowledge.

→ B2B (business-to-business) sales cycles typically take 8-15 months, while B2C (business-to-consumer) decisions happen within 3-4 weeks - requiring different marketing approaches.

→ Business owners don't need to understand everything about new technologies - partner with experts who can guide implementation while you focus on your core business.

"I see AI as another great tool. The more training that we put into it, the better it will be... With that shift and disruption in the labor market, that just becomes a new opportunity for people to learn a new skill."

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Could Your Business Benefit From Crowdfunding Beyond Kickstarter?

In this episode of "Grow Your Business & Grow Your Wealth," Gary Heldt interviews Paul Jossey, principal attorney at Jossey, PLLC, who specializes in investment crowdfunding. Unlike traditional crowdfunding platforms like Kickstarter or GoFundMe, Paul focuses on securities crowdfunding (Regulation CF), which allows businesses to raise capital by offering investors actual securities - whether equity, debt, or revenue share opportunities. This revolutionary funding avenue, which went live in 2016, enables businesses to turn their customers into investors and create a movement around their brand.

Key Takeaways

→ Securities crowdfunding differs from platforms like Kickstarter in that it offers investors actual securities (equity, debt, or revenue shares) regulated by the SEC, creating investor-customers who are financially invested in your success.

→ The crowdfunding campaign approach turns your company into a "movement" with loyal customers who become investors and ambassadors for your brand, compelling for B2C businesses.

→ Anyone can invest in crowdfunding opportunities (not just accredited investors), with statutory limits based on income protecting smaller investors while allowing broader participation.

→ A successful crowdfunding raise requires the business owner to be the primary salesperson, actively engaging their existing network first before expanding outward - the campaign won't succeed by simply posting online.

→ The timeline from preparation to launch typically takes 30-45 days (working with financial and legal professionals), with campaigns ideally running for no more than 3 months to maintain momentum.

Notable Quotes

"You turn your company into a movement. You get people that are not just a loan officer, but a bunch of people who want to see you do well." - Paul Jossey

"This is a campaign. It is not easy, and you can't just throw something on the internet and people will come. I don't care if you are the next Steve Jobs, it does not matter." - Paul Jossey

How to Reach Paul Jossey

Website: The Crowdfunding Lawyers

LinkedIn: Paul Jossey | LinkedIn

Free Consultation: Schedule a free 30-minute consultation through his website

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Are you overwhelmed by tax debt and unsure where to turn? Stephen A. Weisberg, a dedicated tax attorney, joins the podcast to share expert strategies for resolving tax debt, avoiding IRS pitfalls, and confidently navigating audits.

In this episode, Gary Heldt speaks with tax resolution attorney Stephen A. Weisberg, founder of The W Tax Group. With over a decade of experience in IRS tax debt resolution, Stephen provides invaluable insight into the myths surrounding tax settlements, the realities of dealing with the IRS, and how business owners and individuals can take control of their tax situations.

5 Key Takeaways

➡ Not everyone qualifies for an Offer in Compromise – It’s a selective process requiring a detailed financial assessment.

 ➡ IRS installment agreements can reduce your liability – Understanding options like partial pay agreements is crucial.

 ➡ Filing taxes, even if you can’t pay, is essential – Avoiding failure-to-file penalties can save thousands.

 ➡ The IRS has a 10-year statute of limitations – Knowing when the clock starts is critical for long-term tax planning.

 ➡ Work with a specialist, not just a tax preparer – Expertise in IRS collections, audits, and negotiations makes a huge difference.

Navigating tax debt can be daunting, but with the proper guidance, it’s manageable. 

Contact Stephen Weisberg for expert assistance if you’re dealing with IRS issues.

📞 Direct Contact: 248-971-0885 (Call or Text)

 📧 Email: [email protected]

 🌐 Website: https://www.wtaxattorney.com/stephen-weisberg/ 

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What inspired a former Cincinnati Bengals employee to become an independent wealth manager and how did he build a successful practice focused on helping business owners?

Peter Hiltz shares his journey from corporate finance to independent wealth management, highlighting how his early exposure to finance through his father's stock market interests shaped his career path. He discusses the challenges and rewards of transitioning to business ownership, the importance of building strong professional networks, and his client-first approach to wealth management.

Key Takeaways

→ Time management is crucial for business owners - they need to build the right team of advisors to support growth

→ Successful business transitions require openness to change and willingness to adapt traditional practices

→ Building a coordinated team of professionals (CPA, attorney, insurance agent) is essential for comprehensive planning

→ The transition from employee to business owner requires wearing multiple hats and constant learning

→ Authentic relationships and professional networking from an early age are fundamental to long-term success

How to Reach Peter

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Are you a high-income earner, high-net-worth individual, or successful business owner looking to reduce your tax burden, protect your assets, and build a lasting legacy?

In this episode, Terry DuPont, founder of DuPont Advisory Group, discusses the concept of a virtual family office and how it can benefit Main Street clients. He shares common financial mistakes, emphasizes the importance of tax reduction strategies, and explains how his firm's unique approach helps clients achieve financial success and significance.

5 Key Takeaways:

1. The benefits of a virtual family office for comprehensive financial planning.

2. Common mistakes high-net-worth individuals and business owners make.

3. The importance of tax reduction strategies in retirement planning.

4. How DuPont Advisory Group's unique process prioritizes client relationships and understanding.

5. Strategies for wealth preservation, asset protection, and legacy planning.

 Terry encourages listeners to reach out and explore how a virtual family office can help them achieve their financial goals and build a lasting legacy.

Quote from Terry:   Estate Planning and legacy planning are not all about money. It's about your values, family values, business values, etc., that you also want to pass on. 

How to reach the guest:

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Are You Ready to Transform Your Business with Tech-Enabled Accounting Solutions?

In this episode of Grow Your Business & Grow Your Wealth, guest host Eli Mizrahi speaks with Lucas Matson, founder of LDC Financial and former Deloitte Tax professional. Lucas shares his journey from corporate accounting to entrepreneurship, offering valuable insights into modern accounting practices, the cannabis industry, and how technology reshapes financial services. Drawing from his extensive experience with major tech companies and M&A transactions, Lucas provides a unique perspective on building a location-independent practice while maintaining high professional standards.

Key Takeaways:

→ The accounting industry is evolving toward tech-enabled solutions, with automated tools reducing the need for large departments while maintaining accuracy and compliance.

→ Starting at a big accounting firm provides invaluable experience and expertise that can be leveraged to serve diverse clients effectively as an independent practitioner.

→ Cannabis industry accounting presents unique challenges due to complex regulations and tax codes (like 280E), requiring specialized knowledge and careful structuring of financial statements.

→ Digital nomad entrepreneurship is possible in accounting, but proper system and technology setup is required to maintain efficient operations while working remotely.

→ Small businesses should prioritize proper accounting setup from the start. Investing in professional CPA services early can prevent costly mistakes and provide better financial insights.

Notable Quotes from Lucas:

"Don't let the tax tail wag the dog. You have to do what's best for your business. You shouldn't have less active control."

"If you're trying to start a business and you're serious about it, make sure you're properly capitalized, and bring in a CPA to be your partner because a CPA will be invaluable to you."

Connect with Lucas Matson:

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Are you struggling to talk about money, even with your financial advisor?  

In this episode, Nick Garofalo, founder and chief compliance officer of Openhanded Wealth LLC, discusses the importance of open communication in financial planning, common financial mistakes, and how to empower clients to make informed decisions. He emphasizes a faith-based approach, integrating Biblical wisdom into financial planning to help clients align their life goals and vision with their faith.  

5 Key Takeaways:

Nick encourages listeners to schedule a discovery call with a fee-only financial advisor to discuss their financial goals and concerns.  

Quote: "I believe everything we have is a gift from God, entrusted to us to manage wisely—not just our money, but our time, attention, relationships, and all our resources." - Nick

How to reach the guest:

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Ever wondered how to build a successful business empire?

In this episode of Grow Your Business & Grow Your Wealth, Gary Heldt speaks with John Hewitt, a serial entrepreneur and franchising expert who has founded two of the top 100 retail brands in the country, including Jackson Hewitt and Liberty Tax. John shares his journey from building his first tax software for an Apple computer in 1981 to creating Loyalty Brands, a company with eight franchises in various industries. He discusses the common mistakes people make when getting into a franchise and the importance of following the system. John also talks about the importance of culture, attitude, and perseverance in achieving success as a franchisee.  

Key Takeaways:

→ John Hewitt, founder of Jackson Hewitt and Liberty Tax, shares his journey and insights on building successful franchises.

→ John emphasizes the importance of following the franchise system, stating that those who deviate often face challenges.

→ He highlights the significance of culture, attitude, and drive in achieving success as a franchisee.

→ John discusses the importance of perseverance and hard work in overcoming obstacles and achieving long-term success.

→ He shares his mission of having fun, improving lives, and creating opportunities for others through franchising.

Quotes from guest:

Visit website: https://loyaltybrands.com/

Relevant hashtags:

#franchising #entrepreneurship #businesssuccess #loyaltybrands #podcastinterview

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In this episode of Grow Your Business & Grow Your Wealth, Gary Heldt speaks with Eli Mizrahi, President of Pacific Group Advisors and a seasoned fiduciary with over 40 years of experience in financial planning. Eli shares his personal journey into the world of finance, inspired by his parents' retirement challenges, and the lessons he's learned helping families navigate complex financial decisions. He provides valuable insights on retirement planning, investment strategies, wealth preservation, and long-term care solutions.  

Key Takeaways:

→ The importance of starting financial planning early, regardless of age or income. 

→ Common mistakes people make in retirement planning include not having a plan, not considering long-term care, and not preparing for contingencies like taxes and market downturns. 

→ Strategies for retirement planning include maximizing tax-advantaged accounts like 401(k)s and IRAs, considering insurance options with living benefits, and diversifying investments to protect against market volatility. 

→ Long-term care planning is crucial, with 7 out of 10 people likely needing some form of care in their lifetime. Options like specially structured universal life insurance can provide living benefits for care needs. 

→ Social Security planning is essential, including understanding when to start collecting benefits to maximize your income.  

Quotes from Eli

→ "Retirement is when you have more income than expenses, if you can get there young, great." → "Most people spend more time planning a two-week vacation than they spend on preparing for a 20-30 year retirement."  

More from Eli Mizrahi:

Eli Mizrahi, President of Pacific Group Advisors, is a seasoned fiduciary with over four decades of experience in financial and estate planning. Inspired by personal experiences with his parents' retirement challenges, Eli is dedicated to helping families make informed financial decisions. His expertise spans retirement and income planning, investment strategies, wealth preservation, and long-term care solutions. 

Connect with Eli: (27) Eli Mizrahi | LinkedIn

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Ever wondered why some financial advisors insist everyone needs a trust, even if you're not wealthy?

In this episode of Grow Your Business & Grow Your Wealth, Gary Heldt speaks with Katherine Sheehan, Managing Director and Wealth Strategist at Crestwood Advisors LLC. With nearly 30 years of experience in estate planning, Katie shares her expertise on why everyone needs an estate plan, regardless of their wealth level, and breaks down common misconceptions about trusts and estate planning.

Key Takeaways:

→ Estate planning is not just for the wealthy - everyone needs essential planning documents, including a will, revocable trust, power of attorney, and healthcare documents.

→ Revocable trusts offer multiple benefits, including probate avoidance, protection for minor children, and flexibility in asset management while maintaining complete control.

→ Don't let cost concerns prevent proper estate planning - while fees vary by location and complexity, the cost of improper or no planning can be much higher for families.

→ Healthcare documents (healthcare proxy, HIPAA authorization, living will) and power of attorney are essential for life planning, not just end-of-life planning.

→ Long-term care planning may involve special trusts and strategies like Medicaid trusts or life estate deeds, which require careful consideration of five-year lookback periods.

Quotes from Katie:

"Everyone needs estate planning, whether you have $2 or $200 million. Let's just talk about what you need and why you need it."

"Life is uncertain. We want to protect our beneficiaries from themselves, from their creditors, from their potential spouses..."

More from Katherine Sheehan:

Katherine Sheehan is the Managing Director and Wealth Strategist at Crestwood Advisors LLC. With almost three decades of experience in estate planning, she helps families develop comprehensive estate plans that protect their assets and loved ones.

Contact: [email protected]

Website: https://www.crestwoodadvisors.com/

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