Unmitigated

In this episode of the Unmitigated podcast, host Van Carlson sits down with Stephanie Forbes, commercial insurance expert and risk advisor, to break down what’s happening in today’s traditional insurance market. The conversation explores why premiums are increasing while coverage is tightening, how exclusions and underwriting changes are impacting business owners, and the role reinsurance plays in...

In this episode of the Unmitigated podcast, host Van Carlson sits down with Joe Davis, Technology Director at SRA 831(b) Admin, to demystify artificial intelligence for small to mid-sized business owners. The conversation explores what AI really means for day-to-day operations, from eliminating repetitive tasks and improving productivity to enhancing analytics and decision-making. Joe shares pract...

Host Van Carlson welcomes Brian Van Camp to explore how businesses can rethink and modernize their relationship with CPAs. Together, they dive into the evolving role of tax planning as more than just compliance, highlighting how proactive strategies can unlock smarter business decisions, improve financial resilience, and drive long-term growth. From leveraging advanced planning tools to fostering...

In this episode of Unmitigated, host Van Carlson talks with Michael Carr, Partner at Perkins Coie, about how business owners can prepare for and navigate the high-stakes world of mergers and acquisitions. From due diligence to deal structure, Michael shares key legal insights to protect value, avoid pitfalls, and ensure a smooth transition, while managing risks traditional insurance doesn’t cover.

In this episode of Unmitigated, host Van Carlson welcomes Joe Anderson, Principal of Fortify Risk Management, for a candid conversation about how businesses can proactively defend against volatility and unexpected setbacks. Together, they explore the evolving landscape of risk, why traditional insurance models often fall short, and how 831(b) plans offer a strategic edge for long-term stability. J...

In this episode of Unmitigated, host Van Carlson sits down with David Spann, Vistage Chair and executive coach, to explore how peer groups, outside perspective, and structured leadership development can transform the way founders lead. They discuss the challenges of founder dependency, the value of diverse viewpoints, and how Vistage helps business owners grow with intention, clarity, and accounta...

In this episode of Unmitigated, host Van Carlson sits down with Jared Maybon, EOS Implementer and organizational growth expert, to explore the hidden risks of founder dependency and the power of operational systems to unlock sustainable growth. Drawing from his own journey scaling a homebuilding company and now guiding others through the Entrepreneurial Operating System (EOS), Jared shares how imp...

In this episode of Unmitigated, host Van Carlson sits down with Stephen Cilley, Founder and Chairman of Ataraxis, to unpack the often-overlooked risks in HR and how they can impact the bottom line. From onboarding and employee handbooks to wrongful termination and EPLI claims, Van and Stephen explore the complexities of today’s employment landscape—especially for companies operating in multiple st...

In this episode of Unmitigated, host Van Carlson welcomes crop insurance expert Kevin Cantrell to discuss how agribusiness operators can better protect their operations. They dive into the intricacies of crop insurance, the gaps in coverage, and how captives can provide innovative risk mitigation strategies. With a shared passion for agriculture and risk management, Van and Kevin explore how SRA 8...

In this episode of The Unmitigated Podcast, Van Carlson dives into the intricacies of advanced estate tax planning with special guest Tyson Ferney from the Norden Group. Discover how business owners can navigate complex tax strategies to preserve wealth, mitigate risks, and secure their legacies. Whether you’re exploring estate planning for the first time or looking to refine your approach, this c...

Host Van Carlson sits down with Mike Scheumack, Chief Innovation Officer at IDIQ, for Cybersecurity Awareness Month, exploring essential cybersecurity practices that every business should know. Together, they unpack proactive strategies to prevent cyberattacks, effective response plans for breaches, and practical steps for minimizing damage. Learn how a solid approach to cybersecurity can keep you...

Van Carlson welcomes Brandon Kordower, Founder and CEO of Aura Accounting Solutions, to discuss the key financial decisions every growing business faces. Brandon, who started AURA in 2017 to guide scaling businesses with strategic financial expertise, shares his insights on when to bring in a bookkeeper, controller, or CFO. They dive into topics like the often-overlooked value of a strong finance...

Attorney Brad Dixon joins us to discuss the essentials of buy/sell agreements. We’ll cover the purpose and structure of these agreements, including typical clauses and important considerations for business owners. Brad will also highlight common issues to watch out for, spousal considerations, and potential pitfalls. Additionally, we'll explore different approaches to funding a buy/sell agreement,...

In this episode, we delve into the ongoing struggle between 831(b) Plans and the efforts for legislative oversight in Congress featuring two integral members of the 831(b) Institute, Maggi Lazarus, Counsel at Barnes & Thornburg LLP, and Peter Dawson, CEO of Dawson LLC. Together, they explore the intricacies of lobbying efforts and tax law, how these initiatives are shaping the 831(b) landscape...

Curious about what an 831(b) Plan is? Also known as micro captive insurance, this tool helps businesses set aside tax-deferred funds for risks that traditional insurance does not cover. From warranties to legal disputes to third-party business interruption, learn what’s not covered and what you can do.