Keep What You Earn

Today, Shannon welcomes Michael Zipursky, an expert in helping consultants build successful businesses. They explore how consultants can package and price their services effectively.   Michael discusses the power of productization and how creating structured, repeatable solutions can save time and increase profitability. They also address the issue of scope creep and share strategies for maintaini...

In today's episode, Shannon dives deep into the three major risks that can significantly impact any business. She explores the dangers of over-reliance on the owner, the pitfalls of over-concentration on particular clients, and the importance of being prepared for external market and industry risks. Get ready for practical advice that will help safeguard and grow your business. Remember, the insig...

In this episode, Shannon breaks down the essentials of valuing a business. She explains that a business's worth goes beyond the numbers in the bank and dives into the importance of cash flow projections and managing risk.   Shannon emphasizes how the perception of a business's value can often outweigh complex financial formulas. She highlights the key factors that make a business enticing to buyer...

Today, Shannon demystifies the intimidating process of IRS audits. Many fear audits, worrying about severe consequences like jail time, but Shannon is here to debunk these myths.   Using relatable analogies and real-world examples, she explains why audits are not as terrifying as they seem and clarifies the true role of IRS agents. Whether you're a seasoned entrepreneur or just starting out, this...

In today's episode, Shannon dives deep into a crucial yet often overlooked aspect of business growth: authentic hiring. As the year wraps up and tax season approaches, the hiring landscape is more competitive than ever. Shannon shares strategies on how to showcase a company's values in job descriptions, why it's essential to market job posts effectively, and offers insider tips on attracting top t...

In this episode, host Shannon Weinstein chats with Jill Simonds from Savvy Strategic Partners about building value while growing a business.   They cover the importance of human and social capital, efficient processes, and maintaining company values to ensure customer loyalty and retention. Jill offers strategies on mitigating risks, strategic partnerships, and the significance of a strong busines...

In this episode, Shannon speaks with Jill Simonds, founder and CEO of Savvy Strategic Partners, to explore the role and benefits of fractional C-suite executives. They discuss how part-time executive talent can optimize operations, enhance enterprise value, and ensure smoother business scalability.   Listeners will gain insights into effective task prioritization, the importance of Standard Operat...

In this episode, Shannon delves into the critical lesson for business owners about positioning themselves as the director of their business, rather than its lead actor. Through an insightful analogy, Shannon explains why building robust systems should take precedence over putting oneself front and center. She explores the essential transition from a hands-on role to a more strategic one, necessary...

Today's episode dives into an often-overlooked but crucial aspect of running a successful business: creative employee benefits. Shannon shares innovative and nontraditional benefits that not only attract top talent but also foster a healthy, happy, and engaged workforce. From personal development reimbursements to charitable donation matches and a unique "just because" budget, these ideas can help...

In this episode Shannon focuses on essential year-end financial tasks for business owners. As the year winds down, Shannon provides valuable insights into three crucial steps: catching up on bookkeeping, securing a tax professional, and organizing vendor expenses. While these steps may seem small, they can significantly reduce stress and set up listeners for success in the upcoming year. These act...

In today's episode, Shannon dives into a topic that many business owners find challenging—sales. For those who break out in a cold sweat at the thought of selling, this episode offers relief. Shannon explores how to increase revenue without the dreaded sales struggle, offering practical strategies for upselling existing clients, leveraging partnerships, and optimizing lead sources. These insights...

Today's episode is a bit different—we're sharing an insightful discussion from my guest appearance on "The Action Academy" podcast, hosted by Brian Luebben.   In this episode, Brian and I dive into my journey of transforming my business from basic bookkeeping to offering high-value, relationship-focused "fractional CFO" services. We discuss the importance of cultivating deeper client relationships...

Today, Shannon shares her valuable strategies for overcoming periods of feeling stuck or unmotivated in the entrepreneurial journey. Drawing from her six years of experience, Shannon offers practical advice on reassessing calendars, prioritizing time, and creating efficient workflows to help business owners reignite their passion and drive. Whether you're a seasoned entrepreneur or just starting o...

In today's episode, Shannon dives deep into the dynamics of managing a business partnership. Drawing from extensive experience, Shannon discusses the critical aspects of forming and maintaining a successful partnership—from the importance of identifying the strengths and weaknesses of each partner to setting clear expectations and crafting a solid partnership agreement. Shannon highlights that, mu...

In today's episode, Shannon dives deep into the concept of crafting a profit plan that truly drives your business forward. We're going beyond the old-school notion of restrictive budgeting and embracing a strategy that aligns your spending with your business goals. Inspired by Mike Michalowicz's Profit First methodology, Shannon will break down how you can allocate your finances into key buckets—l...

Today, Shannon Weinstein chats with Savannah Chaffin, an enrolled agent and expat tax expert in Vienna, Austria. Savannah shares her experiences navigating the complex world of international taxation, from lifestyle changes and cost of living to the intricate tax obligations US citizens face abroad.   Key topics include the importance of thorough research, consulting financial planners, understand...

Today, Shannon explores the story of a highly successful client who considered abandoning her lucrative marketing agency simply because it no longer excited her. Shannon discusses the importance of staying committed to a profitable business, even when it feels mundane, and why this approach often proves to be the smartest long-term strategy.   Listeners will gain valuable insights on how to mainta...

In today's episode, Shannon dives into a topic inspired by recent client experiences: the two ways you earn money in a business. She explores the complexities of partnerships, how to manage profits and salaries, and the critical importance of having clear agreements. Whether you're a solo entrepreneur or navigating the murky waters of a multi-owner business, Shannon offers invaluable insights to h...

Today, Shannon dives into a topic that might seem counterintuitive but could be a game-changer for any business – unscaling. In this episode, Shannon shares a cautionary tale from her own business journey this year, where she set out with the intention to simplify, only to find the real magic in unscaling. She explores why scaling too soon can be detrimental, how eliminating unnecessary barriers c...

As tax season approaches, the urgency surrounding questions about deductible expenses intensifies. Shannon explores the fundamentals of deductions, dispels common misconceptions, and provides valuable insights on how to maximize tax savings. The episode also highlights an upcoming free tax deduction guide that lists over 150 potential deductions for businesses. While the information shared serves...

In this episode, Shannon welcomes guest Lynn Smith to discuss why embracing failure is essential for business success. They delve into common entrepreneurial fears such as failure and imposter syndrome, introducing the "brain bully" concept—an internal voice that undermines confidence. Lynn shares personal strategies for overcoming these fears and managing public scrutiny, including coping with ca...

Today's episode features a dynamic conversation with Lynn Smith, a transformative media and confidence coach, and former news anchor with over 15 years of experience at NBC News, MSNBC, and CNN Headline News.   Shannon dives deep into the art of communication, the challenges many entrepreneurs face in conveying their value, and the power of authenticity and confidence. Lynn shares her personal jou...

Today, Shannon dives deep into the ever-challenging task of aligning employee expectations with those of the business owner. Shannon shares her personal journey of going from a corporate hiring manager to managing a dynamic team of her own, outlining the surprising complexities of hiring and onboarding in a small business. She discusses the importance of clearly communicating your vision, core val...

Today, Shannon tackles the topic of tax savings and strategies for entrepreneurs. In this episode, she challenges common perceptions and discusses why not all tax-saving tactics are worth the time and effort. Shannon explores the importance of proactive tax planning to avoid surprises, evaluates popular tax strategies like hiring your kids, and emphasizes the value of focusing on revenue growth ov...

Today, Shannon discusses her three most expensive business mistakes. Shannon candidly shares her experiences with hiring and overpaying the wrong people, making hasty decisions, and neglecting constant sales efforts. Tune in for valuable insights and practical tips on avoiding these common pitfalls in your own business journey. Whether you're new to entrepreneurship or a seasoned pro, this episode...