Growth & Grace

Leaha Crawford, host of the "Growth and Grace" program, discusses common tax mistakes and strategies for effective tax planning. She emphasizes the importance of filing taxes on time, especially by April 15, and paying any expected balance to avoid penalties. Crawford advises organizing tax documents throughout the year, including W-2s, 1099s, and mortgage interest statements. She highlights the need for entrepreneurs to understand business expenses, employee classification, and the importance of accurate financial records. Crawford also offers her contact information for tax assistance and encourages listeners to plan for their tax obligations to avoid complications.

On this episode of Growth and Grace, host Leaha Crawford is joined by co-host Julian Rosado and two portfolio managers from Western Alliance Bank — Keith Jackson and Lamont Fitts — for a practical deep dive into smart business banking. The conversation centers on Western Alliance's Business Advantage revolving line of credit, a streamlined financing tool designed to help established businesses bridge cash flow gaps between delivering their product or service and getting paid. The guests break down the critical difference between a revolving line of credit and a term loan, the dangers of using the wrong product for the wrong need, and why so many business owners unknowingly put themselves at risk by neglecting their financial statements, over-relying on bookkeepers, or running multiple LLCs without a clear financial strategy. Leaha also announces upcoming bookkeeping and professional assessment classes for business owners looking to sharpen their financial skills.

Leaha Crawford hosts "Growth and Grace" and discusses the third annual Black Family Wellness Expo with special guests Christie Means and Lamont Harris. The event, held on March 14 from 11 AM to 4 PM at West Prep Academy, focuses on physical, mental, financial, occupational, and intellectual health. Key participants include the Southern Nevada Health District, Nevada State University, CSN, and the Career Technical Institute. The expo also features primary care visits, HIV rapid testing, and resources for foster care transition. Lamont Harris discusses the current booming mortgage market, emphasizing the importance of pre-approval for home buyers.

The discussion on "Growth and Grace" featured Jesse Ferrell, a life coach using the Color Code system. Jesse shared his journey from UNLV, where he earned scholarships in fine arts and hotel administration, to a career in casino marketing. He emphasized the importance of understanding personality types (red, blue, yellow, white) and their core motivations. Jesse highlighted the Color Code's role in improving communication and relationships, noting its use in coaching businesses and teams. The show also touched on the significance of growth and grace in personal development, stressing the need for self-awareness and continuous improvement.

The Salvation Army of Southern Nevada, in collaboration with Scouts of America, is hosting a food drive at 22 Smith's locations across Las Vegas and Pahrump. This is the 38th year of the partnership, aiming to stock the Henderson food pantry. Kyle Smith highlighted the increasing need for rental assistance, with 356 calls last month. The Salvation Army assists 3,000 veterans annually, provides housing for 2-300 families, and operates vocational programs. They also run an adult rehabilitation center and a night shelter. The community meal program serves 132,300 meals annually. The pop-up pantries aim to expand reach, especially in North Las Vegas.

Attorney General Aaron Ford discussed his background, emphasizing his roles as a husband, father, and Nevada's Attorney General. He highlighted his family's support, particularly his wife Berna, a brilliant attorney. Ford recounted his journey from teaching to law, including his first political campaign in 2010, which he lost but later won in 2012. He detailed his achievements, such as recovering over $1.2 billion from opioid companies and $200 million from other settlements. Ford also shared his philosophy of justice, including exonerating and compensating wrongly convicted individuals. He announced his intention to run for governor in the future.

Anita Ross, a former Navy member and Department of Energy contractor, transitioned into real estate investing after buying her first home. She emphasized the importance of budgeting, typically setting aside 10% of the purchase price for closing costs and agent fees. Anita highlighted the need for accurate cost estimations, including a 10-20% cushion for unexpected expenses. She discussed the role of her long-time realtor, George Trill, in negotiating deals and providing resources. Anita also touched on the challenges of securing hard money loans, which require a minimum 10% down payment, and the importance of timely renovations, aiming to complete projects within 45-60 days.

Leaha Crawford and Julian Rosado discuss family planning and the importance of legacy recording with Dr. Francis Arlean. Dr. Arlean's company, AR Media, specializes in audio family legacy recordings and asset documentation to preserve personal stories and memories. She highlights the rise of early-stage Alzheimer's and dementia, especially among younger individuals, and the need to capture stories before memory loss. Dr. Arlean emphasizes the customized nature of her services, which include third-level listening and documenting health histories. She also offers risk management services for home health care agencies to ensure smooth operations in emergencies. Crawford Management Group promotes tax planning services to help clients mitigate taxes and plan for future success.

The program discussed tax season strategies, including offering clients a tax plan alongside their returns. The firm aims to reduce client stress and provide comprehensive services. The conversation shifted to fashion, featuring Sheneka Gunn from Cute Boutique, who emphasized the importance of unique, well-fitted clothing for plus-size women. Sheneka shared her journey, including being featured in magazines and working with celebrities. She also highlighted her community involvement, such as toy drives and scholarships. The segment concluded with personal anecdotes and reflections on the importance of presentation and support in business.

The program discussed the services provided by Care Chest, a nonprofit founded in 1990 by three pharmacists. Care Chest redistributes gently used durable medical equipment and offers one-time use supplies like incontinence supplies, diabetic supplies, and supplemental medical nutrition. They also provide prescription assistance up to $300 a year and independent living home modifications. Income qualifications are at or below 138% of the federal poverty level. Contact information is 866-206-5242. The program emphasized the importance of reaching out for help and not disqualifying oneself.