Sign up to save your podcasts
Or
Share The IC-DISC Show
Share to email
Share to Facebook
Share to X
Share to email
Share to Facebook
Share to X
Or
The IC-DISC Show
The IC-DISC Show episodes
- Business Protection Strategies with Andy Hein
In today's episode of the IC-DISC show, I sit down with Andy Hein of Patent Veritas. Andy shares his impressive journey from chemical engineering and law firms to establishing his firm. He reveals how Patent Veritas helps businesses secure their intellectual property through strategic patent licensing.
I learn how industries like restaurants and stock trading benefit from robust patent protection. Andy demystifies securing patent licenses through the secondary market, allowing businesses access to a vast portfolio. Tailored solutions are key to understanding clients’ needs.
For business owners, Andy discusses using patent licensing for long-term investment and coupling it with Private Placement Life Insurance.
Andy offers valuable insights as we discuss real cases that illustrate high stakes, even in seemingly simple industries. We also touch on ethical considerations in competitive landscapes and ensure personalized services.
Show highlights
- Andy Hein shares his background in chemical engineering and patent law, discussing his experience at Skadden Arps and Sidley Austin before founding Patent Veritas.
- We discuss the role of Patent Veritas in helping businesses secure their intellectual property through strategic patent licensing, particularly focusing on mitigating litigation risks from patent trolls.
- Andy explains how Patent Veritas acquires patents from the secondary market and licenses them to clients, allowing companies to preempt costly legal battles and enhance their IP portfolios.
- We delve into the benefits of understanding clients' revenue streams and technological processes to offer tailored patent protection solutions, applicable to various industries, including non-high-tech sectors like restaurant chains and stock trading operations.
- Andy elaborates on the concept of Private Placement Life Insurance (PPLI) for accredited investors, highlighting its dual benefits for business owners in protecting both their business and personal interests.
- We explore real-world cases, such as a litigation involving used car sales companies, to illustrate the high stakes of patent protection and the strategic moves companies can make to safeguard their operations.
- Andy discusses the ethical considerations and strategic advantages of having a robust patent portfolio to counteract competitor lawsuits, emphasizing the value of being proactive rather than reactive.
- We reflect on the rewarding aspects of offering personalized legal services and the importance of ensuring a good fit between clients and Patent Veritas' offerings, with a unique fee structure based on patent licenses rather than hourly rates.
- Andy provides insights into the competitive dynamics of the patent marketplace, explaining how companies can leverage patent licensing as a long-term investment to enhance their business value.
- We conclude with advice for entrepreneurs and business owners, stressing the importance of being hardworking, available, and respectful in building successful client relationships, and offering complimentary initial consultations to make the first step towards collaboration accessible.
Links
- Email Andy
- LinkedIn
- About IC-DISC Alliance
- About Patent Veritas
Show notes: https://exportadvisors.com/podcast/056-business-protection-strategies-with-andy-hein/
46 min - From Courtroom to Boardroom with Jane Howze
In today's episode of the IC-DISC show, I chat with Jane Howze, founder and managing director of executive search firm Alexander Group. Jane shares her remarkable transition from commercial lending and law into this male-dominated industry.
Her insight into culture, growth, and talent acquisition provided invaluable counsel for aspiring leaders.
We explore nuanced career shifts and hiring new teams, emphasizing integrity's strategic importance. Jane highlights fact-checking credentials for ethics and vetting, referencing a shocking case of credential fabrication. Our conversation sheds light on work evolutions, from mentorship changes to communication innovations over the years.
Show highlights
- Jane Howze shares her career transition from a commercial lending officer and lawyer to the founder and managing director of the Alexander Group, a top retained executive search firm.
- We discuss the early challenges Jane faced in a male-dominated industry and her experiences at Korn Ferry, emphasizing her success in executive search.
- Jane and I reminisce about shared history at The Alexander Group, including nostalgic and entertaining stories from the early days of our careers.
- Jane emphasizes the importance of integrity during career transitions, particularly when handling professional references and avoiding misrepresentation.
- We touch on the strategic advantages of honesty and the repercussions of fabricating qualifications, as highlighted by a CEO's false claim of a computer science degree.
- The episode covers the evolution of workplace dynamics, mentorship, and the practical advice Jane offers for aspiring paid board members.
- Crazy industry tales are recounted, such as an adventure with a $700 car in LA and setting realistic client expectations in executive search scenarios.
- Jane provides insights into networking and career strategy, especially relevant during the Great Resignation and for those aiming for public company board positions.
- We explore Dave's innovative client communication strategies and the impact of networking, as well as the significance of crafting a board-specific resume.
- The episode concludes with a light-hearted exchange about "tours of duty" within a firm, comparing it to conscription, and reflects on the demanding but rewarding nature of our work experiences.
Links
- LinkedIn
- About IC-DISC Alliance
- About The Alexander Group
Show notes: https://exportadvisors.com/podcast/055-from-courtroom-to-boardroom-with-jane-howze/
1 hr 2 min - Wealth Preservation Masterclass with Jonathon Morrison
In today's episode of the IC-DISC show, I sit down with estate planning expert Jonathon Morrison. Listen in as he shares strategic guidance for business owners worth $10+ million on safeguarding wealth in the changing tax landscape.
With the looming December 2025 deadline, Jonathon explains trust structures and exemptions that can freeze business value to minimize estate taxes. From revenue crunching to complex legislation, his expertise cuts through financial jargon.
For those growing rapidly or concerned about legacy, this conversation provides nuanced counsel on leveraging sophisticated legal mechanisms.
Show highlights
- Jonathon Morrison, an estate planning expert, discusses strategies for business owners to preserve their wealth and protect it from potential estate tax changes expected by December 31st, 2025.
- We examine the importance of proactive estate planning for business owners, especially those with assets ranging from $10 to $100 million, to minimize estate tax implications.
- Jonathon emphasizes the benefits of sophisticated trust structures that can 'freeze' a business's value for tax purposes while providing robust defense against unforeseen events.
- The conversation covers the urgency for business owners to engage in estate planning before the anticipated decrease in estate tax exemptions in 2026.
- We explore how transferring business ownership into special trusts can help business owners maintain control of their assets while reducing their taxable estate.
- A case study is presented, demonstrating how strategic valuation discounts and transferring minority interest to a gift trust can result in significant estate tax savings.
- Jonathon outlines his unique business model, which includes direct engagement with clients, flat fee structures, and comprehensive annual reviews, to provide personalized estate planning services.
- The episode touches on the financial benefits of estate planning, such as savings on estate taxes and protection of inheritances from creditors, lawsuits, and divorce.
- During the podcast, Jonathon shares his personal background, including his passion for car collecting and his roots in Arizona.
- We delve into the complexities of funding designs for gift trusts, stressing the importance of optimizing both the trust structure and the funding strategy for maximum effectiveness.
- Email
- LinkedIn
Links
- About IC-DISC Alliance
- About Frazer Ryan Goldberg and Arnold LLP
Show notes: https://exportadvisors.com/podcast/054-wealth-preservation-masterclass-with-jonathon-morrison/
48 min - Unlocking the Potential of Export Credit Insurance with Eric Miller
In today's episode of the IC-DISC show, Eric Miller from the Export-Import Bank of the United States (EX-IM) provides valuable insights into how this 90-year-old institution supports American exporters through strategic financial services. I also learned that EX-IM is one of just two governmental agencies that is an actual profit center.
Before joining EX-IM, Eric worked for a privately-held exporter that was a customer of EX-IM. His expertise both inside and outside of EX-IM sheds light on crucial products like export credit insurance, export financing, and financing for foreign buyers. These solutions can alleviate common hurdles inhibiting international trade growth.
We also talk through some real-world examples of these various EXIM solutions. This is a must-listen episode for any company doing substantial direct exports.
Show highlights
- Eric Miller from the Export-Import Bank of the United States (Ex-Im Bank) discusses the role of the bank in aiding exporting companies with financial services, operating without costing taxpayers.
- We delve into how Ex-Im Bank and the Small Business Administration (SBA) offer loan guarantees and insurance to boost companies' borrowing capacity.
- Eric shares insights into export credit insurance and how Ex-Im Bank's products can help resolve common financial challenges in international transactions.
- The discussion covers Ex-Im Bank's new domestic project finance product, designed to support projects that have a significant export component.
- We touch on the requirement for a U.S. majority in product content, aiming to foster manufacturing and job growth in the United States.
- Eric explains the importance of services, like engineering and architectural services for foreign projects, requiring a U.S. majority for cost.
- We discuss government resources that can aid businesses in exporting, such as tax incentives and the Gold Key service provided by the U.S. Commercial Services.
- The episode highlights the STEP grant, a federal program managed by states to support companies with export-related expenses.
- Eric and I settle the Tex-Mex vs. BBQ debate with an appreciation for both, adding a lighthearted twist to the episode.
- Contact information for Eric Miller is shared for listeners who wish to connect and further explore export financing options.
Links
- About IC-DISC Alliance
- About Export-Import Bank of the United States
Show notes: https://exportadvisors.com/podcast/053-unlocking-the-potential-of-export-credit-insurance-with-eric-miller/
51 min - Mastering Finance with Nearshoring Insights with Dan Corredor
In today's episode of the IC-DISC show, I sit down with Dan Corredor, the owner of Strategic CFO, to discuss how his firm is revolutionizing the accounting landscape through near-shoring in Mexico. We explore Dan's journey starting in Colombia and arriving in Houston, where his bilingual skills have helped Strategic CFO carveout a unique niche.
Our conversation reveals how Strategic CFO blends accounting expertise with innovative strategies to strengthen businesses from the inside out. Through insights on US GAAP, technology, and building capable teams, Dan shows us why accounting is about more than compliance - it's about fostering strategic growth.
Near the end, Dan offers us personal anecdotes about cultivating early savings habits and his culinary interests. Our discussion provides a blueprint for navigating accounting challenges with an international perspective and strategic foresight to propel businesses higher.
Show highlights
- Dan Corredor's firm, Strategic CFO, is leading a cost-saving revolution by near-shoring back-office accounting services to Mexico, significantly reducing costs compared to traditional US-based services.
- Strategic CFO was acquired by Dan Corridor in 2017 after the passing of founder Jim Wilkinson, and Dan has continued to evolve the company while maintaining its legacy.
- We discuss the importance of differentiating between bookkeeping and accounting, where bookkeeping involves recording transactions and accounting involves analyzing and interpreting financial data according to US GAAP.
- We highlight how an effective accounting team can steer companies beyond outdated systems, and how technology is transforming financial statement preparation.
- Dan emphasizes the symbiotic client relationships that result from a combination of coachability and strategic foresight in financial matters.
- There's a discussion about the challenges in the US accounting landscape, including talent shortages and wage inflation, and how near-sourcing with Mexican talent offers a solution.
- The near-sourcing model involves Mexican employees supervised by Texas-based controllers, ensuring quality control while offering CFO-level support to US companies.
- We touch upon the personal side of Dan Corridor's journey, including the importance of early financial savings and sharing personal culinary favorites, to connect with the audience.
- Strategic CFO brings a unique international perspective to each client they serve, emphasizing their hands-on approach and operational expertise.
- We wrap up with anecdotes and stories that provide insight into the practical application of financial strategies and how companies can scale efficiently with the right accounting support.
Links
- About IC-DISC Alliance
- About Strategic CFO
Show notes: https://exportadvisors.com/podcast/052-mastering-finance-with-nearshoring-insights-with-dan-corredor/
39 min - Pathways to Successful Business Transitions with Laurie Barkman
Today on the IC-DISC show, join us for an insightful discussion with Laurie Barkman, a renowned CEO and author of The Business Transition Handbook. As the acclaimed Business Transition Sherpa, Laurie sheds light on the reality that all business owners will exit someday.
We explore the challenges of selling a business, like why most small businesses don't sell successfully and the potential pitfalls of an exit.
We also discuss relying on experienced advisors and how understanding taxes and markets can aid planning. Laurie shares invaluable advice on navigating this critical phase successfully.
This episode is a must-listen for any business owner planning to navigate their business transition.
Show highlights
- Laurie and I discuss her journey as a CEO and author of The Business Transition Handbook, providing insights into the realities of business transition.
- She highlights the hard truth of selling a business and how eight out of ten small businesses fail to do so successfully.
- We talk about the common pitfalls of business transition, the five "D's" that can disrupt a business, and the value of creating a satisfied client base.
- Laurie explains the unique challenges law firms face during business transition and offers her strategies for a smooth transition.
- We delve into the importance of a clear exit plan and the different options business owners have when transitioning their business.
- Laurie advises focusing on three primary goals during business transition: business, personal, and financial.
- We discuss the analogy of business transition planning to having a sherpa guide you through a treacherous terrain, making the process seem less daunting.
- Laurie emphasizes the significance of accountability in business and the benefits of having industry expert conversations during transition.
- We explore the upcoming online course based on Laurie's book that she plans to launch in the first quarter of 2024, aiming to reach a wider audience of entrepreneurs.
- We discuss the importance of having an experienced network of professionals to help businesses reach their goals and create a successful transition plan.
Links
- About IC-DISC Alliance
- About The Business Transition Sherpa
- About The Endgame Entrepreneurship Course
Show notes: https://exportadvisors.com/podcast/051-pathways-to-successful-business-transitions-with-laurie-barkman/
45 min - Exploring Alabama's Booming Industries with Carolyn Turner
In today's episode of the IC-DISC show, I have a captivating discussion with Carolyn Turner from the Alabama International Trade Center. We uncover fascinating details about Alabama's economic progress and the pivotal role of the Small Business Development Center (SBDC) in boosting job growth and new businesses.
Carolyn shares inspiring success stories of SBDC clients who utilized free services to export goods successfully. I also learned more about the SBDC's impactful support for small businesses through cost-free assistance.
We wrap it up by exploring how SBDC teams in Texas and Colorado foster business growth.
Show highlights
- Carolyn Turner, the Assistant Director of Research and Training at the Alabama International Trade Center for Imports and Exports, joins us to discuss Alabama's economic progress and the impact of the Small Business Development Center (SBDC).
- We discuss the remarkable growth in job creation, economic investment, and new business formations in Alabama, which can be directly linked to the efforts of the SBDC.
- Carolyn shares inspiring success stories of businesses that have used the SBDC's free services to successfully export goods.
- We delve into the valuable, cost-free services provided by the SBDC and its transformative role in Alabama's business landscape.
- We explore the flourishing industries in Huntsville, Alabama, including aerospace, aviation, missile defense, and genomics.
- Carolyn and I have a lively discussion about the economic influence of Bucky's in Alabama and the importance of taking breaks.
- We touch on the peculiarities of international business, such as the unnecessary pursuit of perfection, and engage in a playful debate about whether to use hot or cold water when scooping ice cream.
- We highlight the work being done by the SBDC teams in Texas and Colorado to support small businesses and entrepreneurs.
- Carolyn emphasizes the importance of making use of SBDC resources, particularly for those in Texas, and encourages checking out the San Antonio SBDC.
- We end on a note of importance, discussing the significance of finding joy in what you do and taking breaks to maintain passion and enthusiasm.
Links
- About IC-DISC Alliance
- About Alabama International Trade Center
Show notes: https://exportadvisors.com/podcast/050-exploring-alabamas-booming-industries-with-carolyn-turner/
35 min - Demystifying Virtual Family Offices with Mark Wade
In today's episode of the IC-DISC show, I chat with Mark Wade, founder and president of Echelon Virtual Family Office. Mark shares insights into virtual family office services, tailored for those with substantial wealth not needing a standalone family office. We also discuss premium-financed life insurance structures and how they serve individuals with several million dollars in assets.
Mark outlines the origins of virtual family offices, tracing back to the Rockefellers. We learn they now cater to those with $10 million or more in assets. Additionally, Mark describes optimizing value when selling a business through pre-sale coordination, marketing strategy, and deploying post-liquidity event assets.
We conclude by examining indexed universal life insurance advantages and investing in index funds, real estate, and small businesses. Overall, this informative episode underscores wealth management options and leveraging life insurance through Mark's insights
Show highlights
- In this episode I chat with Mark Wade, the founder and president of Echelon Virtual Family Office, How He provides services to wealthy individuals who need family office services but do not justify having a standalone family office.
- Mark elaborates on the concept of a virtual family office, highlighting that it originated with the Rockefellers. He explains that these services are typically available to those with a net worth of $10 million or more.
- We discuss the process of leveraging life insurance through premium financing, with Mark emphasizing that the coordination of various financial professionals and providers is key to unlocking a business's value.
- Mark and I delve into the process of pre-sale value creation, marketing to potential buyers, and the deployment of assets after a liquidity event.
- We explore the struggle of successful business owners in transitioning from their roles after a liquidity event, and the satisfaction derived from making a difference in people's lives.
- We discuss the concept of premium financed life insurance and how Etch-A-Lan uses it strategically.
- Mark describes the process of bank financing with collateral and contribution, explaining how clients can sign a personal loan and provide collateral.
- We discuss how despite a higher interest rate environment, the strategy of bank financing remains potent due to policy flexibility.
- Mark and I examine the benefits of indexed universal life insurance and the advantages of investing in index funds, rental real estate, and small business ownership.
- Finally, we celebrate the power of self-confidence and the wisdom gleaned from financial experiences.
Links
- About IC-DISC Alliance
- About Echelon Wealth Strategies
Show notes: https://exportadvisors.com/podcast/049-demystifying-virtual-family-offices-with-mark-wade/
36 min - Unlocking the Secrets of Financial Growth with Kirk McLaren
In today's illuminating episode, listen in as I chat with Kirk McLaren, founder of Foresight CFO, about thriving in finance and business.
Kirk lifts the veil on the strategic growth CFO role beyond tasks. Discover pivotal client habits and Kirk's innovative fractional model. An intriguing question prompts Kirk's life-shaping reflections.
Dive into Kirk's book exploring transformational practices. Thought-provoking topics include Tesla's budgeting, lean innovator Joe Justice, and the power of tales. I also share leadership lessons from my CEO collaborations.
Finally, uncover a CFO's higher mission. Kirk illuminates the Growth CFO Certification, empowering professionals as strategic partners. If you seek financial stewardship strategies or a richer purpose, this episode presents a treasury of wisdom for cultivating sustainable growth in your organization and career.
Show highlights
- This episode features Kirk McLaren, the founder of Foresight CFO, and we discuss his unique role as a growth CFO and the innovative tactics he uses to provide fractional CFO services.
- McLaren shares his three key habits for growth, which are crucial for any manager to adapt for successful financial management.
- We dive into McLaren's book 'The Growth CFO Void', which offers practical habits that can transform a manager's life and has been published in collaboration with Forbes.
- McLaren and I discuss the intriguing idea of Tesla's non-existent budgeting process and its influence from lean manufacturing guru Joe Justice.
- We also explores the importance of employees taking ownership of their numbers and the critical role of daily dashboard tools for effective financial management.
- McLaren highlights the importance of CFOs becoming true allies of the CEO, stepping beyond tasks, and helping in decision-making processes.
- We talk about the CR Growth CFO Certification, an initiative that empowers financial professionals to enhance their role as a CFO.
- We explore the importance of meaningful connections in the financial growth and management sphere.
- He touches upon how Foresight CFO uses a three-person team approach to provide fractional CFO services, and the importance of having a learning mindset for successful financial management.
- We conclude with a discussion on the bigger purpose of a CFO in a company and how their role is not just limited to financial operations, but also involves strategic decision-making and navigating the company towards growth.
Links
- About IC-DISC Alliance
- About Foresight CFO
Show notes: https://exportadvisors.com/podcast/047-unlocking-the-secrets-of-financial-growth-with-kirk-mclaren/
37 min - Exit Planning and Succession with Mike Silverman and Matt Clark
Today on the IC-DISC Podcast, I spoke with Mike Silverman and Matt Clark, two attorneys specializing in exit planning and succession planning for business owners. They explained that exit planning is all about planning when an owner wants to leave the company, while succession planning identifies future leaders within the business. Both are crucial since you need a strategy for expected and unexpected departures.
Mike and Matt stressed meeting regularly so these plans stay on track and don't cause disruption. They also talked about having a whole team involved beyond just lawyers, with experts in different fields all working together towards long-term goals.
The overall message I got from listening was planning early, working with professionals with experience like Matt and Mike, and sticking with the process to ensure that transitions go smoothly for everyone.
Show highlights
- Many business owners tend to push exit and succession planning to the bottom of their to-do list, focusing instead on day-to-day operations.
- Sudden exits without a succession plan can leave the business leaderless and destroy its value. By recognizing the need for succession planning early on, you can protect and maximize the value of your business.
- Planning helps align goals and increase value for employees, family, and the owner. Clear vision and goals for all stakeholders are necessary for a successful succession plan.
- Without planning, a sudden exit can result in a dramatic reduction in the value of the business.
- Having the right people in place and a solid succession plan increases the value of the business to potential buyers.
- A turnkey business that can generate income without the owner's presence is of premium value.
- They emphasize the importance of working with a team of experts, including estate planning attorneys, CPAs, and wealth advisors. These professionals can provide valuable insights and ensure a comprehensive plan is in place.
- They also mention that M&A lawyers often push for third-party sales because it's what they know and are experienced in.
- Planning is not a one-time event but an ongoing process that requires regular meetings and adjustments. Embrace the process, and you'll be well on your way to a successful exit and a bright future for your business.
- The conversation touches on the indirect acquisition structure and ESOPs as potential strategies.
Links
- About IC-DISC Alliance
- About Dentons
Show notes: https://exportadvisors.com/podcast/046-exit-planning-and-succession-with-mike-silverman-and-matt-clark/
1 hr
About The IC-DISC Show
From the publisher's feed
Join host David Spray as he interviews business owners and industry leaders about the IC-DISC program. Insights and anecdotes to help privately-held U.S. exporters increase their after-tax income.