

The Thoughtful Entrepreneur
Josh Elledge of UpMyInfluence.com
You’re gonna love this DAILY, commercial-free entrepreneur spotlight show. We feature CEOs and founders of 6-9 figure B2B companies. Agencies, coaches, consultants, and other leaders share not only their success stories - but their advice for business leaders focused on business growth.
You’re going to hear real stories from real people all in 15-25 minutes time - perfect for your commute.
On this podcast, your host, Josh Elledge encourages entrepreneurs to share not only their expertise but their stories and their hearts.
We believe that every person has a unique message which can positively impact the world. Even YOU! If you’d like to be featured on The Thoughtful Entrepreneur, apply here: https://UpMyInfluence.com/guest/
You’re going to hear real stories from real people all in 15-25 minutes time - perfect for your commute.
On this podcast, your host, Josh Elledge encourages entrepreneurs to share not only their expertise but their stories and their hearts.
We believe that every person has a unique message which can positively impact the world. Even YOU! If you’d like to be featured on The Thoughtful Entrepreneur, apply here: https://UpMyInfluence.com/guest/
Episodes
Mentioned books

Dec 11, 2025 • 18min
2345 - Blending Critical and Creative Thinking to Build a Powerful Artistic Strategy with Mandarin Associates' Charlie Curson
How Strategic Thinking Transforms Leadership: Insights from Charlie CursonIn this episode, host Josh Elledge speaks with Charlie Curson, strategist, leadership coach, author, and Founder & Director of Mandarin Associates. Their conversation explores the deeper meaning of strategic thinking—beyond planning—and reveals how leaders can elevate their impact through self-awareness, open-mindedness, creativity, and influence. This blog distills Charlie’s most valuable insights, showing professionals how to approach leadership with greater clarity, adaptability, and long-term strategic focus.Building a Stronger Strategic Mindset for Modern LeadershipCharlie Curson explains that strategy is fundamentally different from planning—planning is about predictability and control, while strategy is about making courageous, future-focused choices. He emphasizes that real strategy begins with self-awareness, helping leaders understand their own biases, beliefs, and behaviors so they can make decisions from a place of clarity rather than fear or habit. Without this foundation, even the smartest plans fail to address the real levers that drive performance and growth within organizations.Charlie also shares how open-mindedness and critical thinking shape effective strategy. Leaders must actively challenge assumptions, invite diverse perspectives, and create environments where constructive disagreement can surface the best ideas. Creativity plays an equally vital role—too often, “strategy” becomes a recycled version of last year’s plan, but true strategic thinking requires imagining new possibilities, exploring different futures, and generating innovative pathways to achieve meaningful outcomes.Finally, Charlie highlights the importance of communication and influence in scaling the impact of strategy. Even the strongest strategic insights collapse without team alignment and buy-in. By co-creating strategy with their teams, communicating with clarity, and fostering open dialogue, leaders can translate ideas into action. He encourages leaders to embrace uncertainty, experiment early, and treat every new initiative as a learning opportunity—allowing strategy to evolve dynamically as the business landscape shifts.About Charlie CursonCharlie Curson is a strategist, leadership coach, speaker, and author of Be More Strategic: 12 Essential Practices to Build the Life and Career You Want. He is the Founder and Director of Mandarin Associates, where he helps organizations develop strategic thinking capabilities, improve leadership effectiveness, and foster high-performing cultures. Connect with Charlie on LinkedIn.About Mandarin AssociatesMandarin Associates provides strategic consulting, coaching, leadership development, and facilitation services for global organizations. Their work centers on helping teams think more strategically, improve communication, and create purposeful, aligned results across all levels of leadership.Links Mentioned in This EpisodeCharlie Curson on LinkedIn ProfileMandarin Associates WebsiteKey Episode HighlightsStrategy is about choices, not control or comfortSelf-awareness is the foundation of strategic leadershipOpen-mindedness and diverse perspectives improve decision-makingCreativity enables leaders to imagine new futures and opportunitiesCommunication and influence determine whether strategy activates or stallsLeaders must become comfortable navigating uncertaintyEffective strategy requires experimentation, iteration, and continuous learningConclusionCharlie Curson’s approach reframes strategic thinking as a human capability—one grounded in awareness, curiosity, courage, and thoughtful action. By understanding the difference between planning and strategy, embracing diverse perspectives, and learning to manage uncertainty, leaders can unlock transformative growth for themselves and their teams. The path to becoming more strategic begins with intentional reflection, meaningful conversation, and the willingness to act on what truly matters.🎧 More from The Thoughtful Entrepreneur🎙️ Want to be featured on The Thoughtful Entrepreneur? Get your voice in front of 50K+ listeners.👉 Schedule your guest spot here »🤝 Consultant doing 6+ figures? Let’s introduce you to your next big client, partner, or referral source.👉 See how here »📡 Thinking of launching your own podcast? We’ve built over 250 shows for leaders who land dream guests weekly.👉 See the system here »🚨 What’s Your PodVerified Score? Find out how you rank as a podcast guest — and get matched with hosts who actually want you.👉 View the platform »📬 Subscribe to The Thoughtful EntrepreneurNew episodes daily to fuel your impact, visibility, and influence. Thanks for listening — now go build something extraordinary!

Dec 10, 2025 • 22min
2344 - The Seven Essential Practices to Overcome Insecurity in Midlife with The Insecurity Project's Jaemin Frazer
Overcoming Insecurity in Midlife with Jaemin FrazerIn this episode of The Thoughtful Entrepreneur, host Josh Elledge interviews Jaemin Frazer—Founder of The Insecurity Project, author of Unhindered, and host of the Unhindered Podcast. Jaemin shares why insecurity often peaks in midlife, how early childhood beliefs silently shape adult behavior, and what ambitious professionals can do to break free from self-doubt. His insights offer a practical and compassionate roadmap for anyone ready to confront insecurity and step into a more confident, purposeful version of themselves.How Insecurity Shapes Midlife and How to Overcome ItJaemin explains that insecurity is universal, rooted in beliefs formed before age seven, and often goes unnoticed until midlife when energy diminishes and the “push through it” strategy stops working. In this season of life, many high achievers discover that the same insecurity that once fueled their ambition is now causing anxiety, exhaustion, strained relationships, and a sense of emotional unraveling. He emphasizes that insecurity is not a flaw, but a solvable problem—one that requires awareness, objectivity, and a structured process for dismantling limiting beliefs.He describes insecurity as “rocket fuel”: powerful enough to drive early success, but ultimately toxic if relied on for too long. Through Jaemin’s seven-practice framework, individuals learn to deconstruct these beliefs, examine the stories they tell themselves, and replace insecurity-driven motivation with clarity and intrinsic purpose. This transformation allows midlifers to shift from proving themselves to actually becoming themselves—living with more peace, energy, and authenticity.Jaemin also highlights the importance of vulnerability and finding the right support. Not all helpers are equipped to guide someone through insecurity, and he stresses the value of working with a coach or therapist who provides objectivity, structure, and accountability. He invites listeners to access his book Unhindered, his long-running podcast, and his one-on-one coaching programs to continue their journey toward becoming truly “unhindered.”About Jaemin FrazerJaemin Frazer is the Founder of The Insecurity Project, an internationally recognized coach, author, and speaker known for his expertise in helping high performers overcome insecurity. Through his book Unhindered, his 300+ episode podcast, and his structured coaching methodology, Jaemin guides individuals through deep personal transformation and lasting emotional freedom. Connect with him on LinkedIn: Jaemin FrazerAbout The Insecurity ProjectThe Insecurity Project (jaeminfrazer.com) provides coaching, tools, and educational resources designed to help individuals overcome insecurity and live with greater confidence, purpose, and emotional clarity. Through books, podcasts, speaking engagements, and immersive coaching programs, Jaemin helps midlifers break free from long-standing limiting beliefs and step into their highest potential.Links Mentioned in This EpisodeJaemin Frazer LinkedIn ProfileThe Insecurity Project WebsiteKey Episode HighlightsWhy insecurity is universal and rooted in early childhoodHow insecurity becomes more visible and disruptive in midlifeThe concept of insecurity as “rocket fuel” for high achieversJaemin’s structured seven-practice framework for overcoming insecurityThe importance of objectivity in coaching and personal developmentWhy vulnerability accelerates growth and emotional clarityTools and resources for living “unhindered”ConclusionJaemin Frazer offers a refreshing and hopeful perspective on insecurity, reframing it as a solvable human challenge rather than a lifelong burden. His insights empower midlifers to recognize the beliefs holding them back, engage in a systematic process of emotional deconstruction, and step confidently into a life aligned with authenticity and purpose. With the right support and a willingness to confront long-standing patterns, anyone can experience meaningful transformation and begin living “unhindered.”🎧 More from The Thoughtful Entrepreneur🎙️ Want to be featured on The Thoughtful Entrepreneur? Get your voice in front of 50K+ listeners.👉 Schedule your guest spot here »🤝 Consultant doing 6+ figures? Let’s introduce you to your next big client, partner, or referral source.👉 See how here »📡 Thinking of launching your own podcast? We’ve built over 250 shows for leaders who now land dream guests (and clients) weekly.👉 See the system here »🚨 What’s Your PodVerified Score?🎯 Find out how you rank as a podcast guest — and get matched with hosts who actually want you.✅ 2 free podcast matches✅ Dashboard with warm-up plans✅ Media badges to showcase your guest authority✅ Priority access to Founders Club (limited to 100)👉 View the platform »📬 Subscribe to The Thoughtful EntrepreneurNew episodes daily to fuel your impact, visibility, and influence. Thanks for listening — now go build something extraordinary!

Dec 9, 2025 • 23min
2343 - A Unique Celebration for Dads to Connect, Share, and Recharge with Fathers Eve's John Francis
Fathers Eve: Building Community and Connection for Dads EverywhereIn this episode, host Josh Elledge interviews John Francis, Founder of Fathers Eve, to explore how a small garage gathering grew into a nationwide movement supporting dads through connection, camaraderie, and community. John shares how Fathers Eve began organically in Minnesota and has since expanded into a global celebration held the night before Father’s Day. He discusses the challenges many men face around social isolation and why intentional, judgment-free gatherings can have such a powerful impact on mental health, family life, and community strength.How Fathers Eve Helps Dads Build Meaningful ConnectionsJohn explains that many men lose touch with friendships as they get older, take on more responsibilities, or struggle to maintain social habits after the pandemic. Fathers Eve combats this by creating relaxed, pressure-free environments—ranging from backyard get-togethers to bar meetups to virtual countdown celebrations—where dads can show up as themselves without expectations. The simplicity is intentional: no speakers, no programming, just space for men to talk, laugh, share experiences, and realize they’re not alone in their challenges.He also highlights the signature tradition that unites Fathers Eve events worldwide: the 8 p.m. local-time countdown toast, streamed across time zones, creating a shared moment of celebration and solidarity. Activities like cornhole, small trophies, and optional charity drives add fun, community impact, and meaningful purpose to gatherings. For hosts, Fathers Eve provides guidance, personal support from John, and the flexibility to design events that fit their community’s needs.Finally, John emphasizes the broader ripple effect these events create—from forming new friendships to strengthening families to contributing to local charities through diaper drives and fundraising efforts. Fathers Eve's open, inclusive format allows dads to build deeper social bonds, improving mental well-being and fostering long-term connection. Whether attending or hosting, dads walk away feeling celebrated, supported, and part of something bigger.About John FrancisJohn Francis is the Founder of Fathers Eve, a global movement focused on creating connection, support, and community for dads everywhere. Known as “Johnny Franchise,” John is also a consultant, speaker, and advocate for fatherhood, leadership, and community-building. About Fathers EveFathers Eve (fatherseve.com) is a growing worldwide gathering held the night before Father’s Day, uniting dads in cities across the U.S. and around the world. Through local events, virtual celebrations, and charitable initiatives, Fathers Eve helps men build meaningful relationships and strengthen their communities.Links Mentioned in This EpisodeFathers Eve WebsiteJohn Francis LinkedIn ProfileKey Episode HighlightsThe accidental founding of Fathers Eve and its grassroots growthWhy many men struggle with social connection—and how Fathers Eve addresses itThe signature 8 p.m. countdown toast bringing dads together worldwideTips for hosting successful Fathers Eve events of any sizeHow charity involvement strengthens community impactThe importance of simplicity, inclusivity, and authenticity in building male communitiesConclusionJohn Francis shows that Fathers Eve is far more than a social gathering—it’s a movement designed to strengthen dads, families, and communities. By offering simple, supportive environments where men can connect without pressure, Fathers Eve helps break the cycle of isolation and creates ripple effects of positivity and belonging. Whether you're looking to attend an event, host your own, or simply learn how to foster stronger male friendships, Fathers Eve provides tools, traditions, and inspiration to help men show up for themselves and one another.🎧 More from The Thoughtful Entrepreneur🎙️ Want to be featured on The Thoughtful Entrepreneur? Get your voice in front of 50K+ listeners.👉 Schedule your guest spot here »🤝 Consultant doing 6+ figures? Let’s introduce you to your next big client, partner, or referral source. See how here »📡 Thinking of launching your own podcast? We’ve built over 250 shows for leaders who now land dream guests (and clients) weekly.👉 See the system here »🚨 What’s Your PodVerified Score? 🎯 Get matched with hosts looking for guests like you.👉 View the platform »📬 Subscribe to The Thoughtful Entrepreneur — new episodes daily to fuel your impact, visibility, and influence.

Dec 8, 2025 • 16min
2342 - What a Leading Venture Capitalist Reveals About AI Companions and Startup Success with Social Discovery Group's Jane Kubryak
Join venture capitalist Jane Kubryak from Social Discovery Group as she explores the rapidly evolving world of digital connections and AI companions. With a rich background in scouting high-potential founders, Jane shares insights on the polarized VC landscape where traction matters more than hype. She advises early-stage entrepreneurs to embrace strategic storytelling and community engagement. Jane highlights the significant opportunities in AI beyond dating, touching on mental health and productivity—reminding us that innovation paired with empathy is key to success.

Dec 7, 2025 • 18min
2341 - Streamlining Your Construction Business for Better Engagement with Leyah&Co.'s Leyah Valgardson Hostetter
Leyah Valgardson Hostetter, Founder of Leyah&Co., specializes in enhancing client experiences in the construction industry. In the discussion, she highlights the importance of designing workflows that align with client emotions throughout a project. Leyah addresses common challenges in construction, such as unclear communication and operational chaos, emphasizing the need for systems and team clarity. She also predicts that in a tightening market, companies focused on client experience will stand out and thrive. Plus, she offers insights on overcoming the struggles of tradespeople as business owners.

Dec 6, 2025 • 20min
2340 - Discovering the Real Issues Behind Business Challenges with Venture Management Consultants, Inc's John Murphy
Unlocking High-Performance Leadership: Lessons from John Murphy on Mindful Management and Business TransformationIn this episode, host Josh Elledge speaks with John Murphy, founder of Venture Management Consultants, Inc. and author of more than 20 books including Miracle Minded Manager. Their conversation explores the intersection of nature, spirituality, process improvement, and the art of simplifying leadership in today’s complex business environment. This blog distills the most powerful ideas from their discussion, giving leaders actionable takeaways to elevate performance, mindset, and organizational culture.Leadership Insights That Transform Teams and OrganizationsJohn Murphy’s leadership philosophy is grounded in deep observation of nature and the role simplicity plays in high performance. He explains that nature operates without stress or overthinking—trees grow, rivers flow, and ecosystems adapt effortlessly—and leaders can benefit by mirroring this same natural alignment. When leaders learn to be fully present rather than pressured, they unlock clarity, creativity, and more intuitive decision-making that supports healthier teams and stronger business results.Another major topic John explores is the power of Kaizen events—intensive improvement workshops that rapidly redesign business processes within days rather than months. These transformation sprints dismantle silos, build cross-functional collaboration, and demonstrate what’s possible when teams are given focus, data, and permission to fix what’s broken. The speed and sustainability of Kaizen outcomes often reignite organizational momentum and help leaders rediscover the power of disciplined simplicity.John also emphasizes mindful leadership, teaching leaders to shift from resistance to acceptance when confronting uncertainty or change. Instead of reacting from fear, mindful leaders recognize what is, examine the root causes of problems, and respond with clarity. This is paired with his advocacy for the art of subtraction—removing unnecessary steps, roles, tools, or habits that drain energy. By simplifying rather than adding more complexity, organizations experience greater flow, higher productivity, and dramatically improved morale.About John MurphyJohn Murphy is a renowned leadership consultant, speaker, and author with over 20 published books focused on business transformation, mindfulness, and high-performance leadership. His teachings combine spiritual principles, lean methodologies, and decades of executive coaching experience. Learn more about his work at johnjmurphy.org or connect with him on LinkedIn.About Venture Management Consultants, Inc.Founded by John Murphy, Venture Management Consultants specializes in business transformation, leadership development, and operational excellence. The firm supports organizations globally through Kaizen events, executive coaching, culture transformation initiatives, and high-performance training programs. Explore resources and offerings at johnjmurphy.org.Links Mentioned in This EpisodeJohn Murphy’s WebsiteJohn Murphy on LinkedInKey Episode HighlightsNature teaches leaders the power of presence, alignment, and simplicityKaizen events accelerate process improvement and cultural transformationMindful leadership reduces resistance and unlocks clarityRoot cause analysis prevents wasted effort on surface-level fixesThe “art of subtraction” is essential for eliminating complexity and improving flowMomentum builds when teams embrace change instead of fearing itCurating your influences and continuing education accelerates growthConclusionJohn Murphy’s approach to leadership blends spiritual insight, operational discipline, and mindful awareness, offering a transformative perspective for leaders seeking clarity and high performance. By learning from nature, embracing the present moment, simplifying systems, and fostering continuous improvement, leaders can create organizations that thrive with less stress and more momentum. Begin your own transformation by removing what no longer serves you—and creating space for what truly matters.🎧 More from The Thoughtful Entrepreneur🎙️ Want to be featured on The Thoughtful Entrepreneur? Get your voice in front of 50K+ listeners.👉 Schedule your guest spot here »🤝 Consultant doing 6+ figures? Let’s introduce you to your next big client, partner, or referral source.👉 See how here »📡 Thinking of launching your own podcast? We’ve built over 250 shows for leaders who land dream guests weekly.👉 See the system here »🚨 What’s Your PodVerified Score? Find out how you rank as a podcast guest — and get matched with hosts who actually want you.👉 View the platform »📬 Subscribe to The Thoughtful EntrepreneurNew episodes daily to fuel your impact, visibility, and influence. Thanks for listening — now go build something extraordinary!

Dec 5, 2025 • 17min
2339 - Unlocking the Five Pillars of Success for Creative Entrepreneurs with Schulman Art's Miriam Schulman
How to Build a Thriving Creative Business: In-Depth Lessons from Miriam SchulmanIn this episode, host Josh Elledge sits down with Miriam Schulman, founder and CEO of Schulman Art and The Inspiration Place, to unpack the essential principles behind building a profitable and sustainable creative business. Miriam—also the author of the HarperCollins book Art, Inc.—shares her expertise on storytelling, branding, pricing, audience-building, and the mindset needed to overcome creative resistance. Her unique blend of artistic mastery and business strategy provides a powerful roadmap for any creator looking to turn passion into profit.The Power of Myth-Making in Creative BusinessMiriam introduces the concept of myth-making—drawing inspiration from Greek mythology—as the foundation of compelling branding for creative entrepreneurs. She explains that just as ancient heroes hired bards to tell their stories, modern creatives must proactively shape and share their own narratives to stand out in a crowded marketplace. Storytelling isn’t self-indulgence; it’s strategy.In the conversation, Miriam breaks down the five pillars of creative business success: production, pricing, prospecting, promotion, and productivity. She details how each pillar supports business growth and provides clear, actionable practices artists can incorporate immediately. From setting a consistent creation schedule to building an email list that actually converts, Miriam offers step-by-step advice grounded in her own business experience.Finally, she addresses the mindset challenges that hold creatives back—especially fear of failure, perfectionism, and the myth of “selling out.” Miriam emphasizes that discomfort is part of the creative journey. The more talented a person is, the better they often become at talking themselves out of action. Her reminders to “show up even when it’s hard” and to treat creative work like a professional commitment resonate as core lessons for any business-minded artist.About Miriam SchulmanMiriam Schulman is a creative entrepreneur, artist, and the founder of The Inspiration Place, where she teaches artists how to build thriving businesses through marketing systems, pricing strategies, and mindset tools. She is also the author of Art, Inc.—a HarperCollins guidebook for creative professionals—and host of the popular Inspiration Place Podcast. Connect with her on LinkedIn or explore her programs at SchulmanArt.com.About The Inspiration PlaceThe Inspiration Place is Miriam’s educational platform dedicated to helping artists and creative entrepreneurs grow profitable, sustainable businesses. Through online courses, coaching, community support, and the Inspiration Place Podcast, artists learn practical skills for marketing, selling, pricing, and increasing their visibility. Learn more at SchulmanArt.com.Links Mentioned in This EpisodeMiriam Schulman’s LinkedIn ProfileThe Inspiration Place WebsiteKey Episode HighlightsWhy artists must become the “bard of their own story”The five pillars of creative business successHow to price your work with confidenceWhy email marketing outperforms social mediaHow mindset blocks sabotage creative entrepreneursThe myth of “selling out” and why creatives must embrace commerceWhy showing up consistently matters more than perfectionConclusionMiriam Schulman’s approach to creative entrepreneurship blends timeless storytelling with modern business strategy, giving artists a clear path to earning a sustainable income from their work. Her insights remind creatives that success comes from consistency, visibility, and the courage to embrace both creativity and commerce. Whether you are just starting or scaling your creative brand, the pillars shared in this episode offer a powerful framework for long-term growth.🎧 More from The Thoughtful Entrepreneur🎙️ Want to be featured on The Thoughtful Entrepreneur? Get your voice in front of 50K+ listeners.👉 Schedule your guest spot here »🤝 Consultant doing 6+ figures? Let’s introduce you to your next big client, partner, or referral source.👉 See how here »📡 Thinking of launching your own podcast? We’ve built over 250 shows for leaders who land dream guests weekly.👉 See the system here »🚨 What’s Your PodVerified Score? Find out how you rank as a podcast guest — and get matched with hosts who actually want you.👉 View the platform »📬 Subscribe to The Thoughtful EntrepreneurNew episodes daily to fuel your impact, visibility, and influence. Thanks for listening — now go build something extraordinary!

Dec 4, 2025 • 18min
2338 - Common Mistakes Entrepreneurs Make and How to Avoid Them with Stafford Solutions' Lyndsay Stafford
Lyndsay Stafford, Founder and CEO of Stafford Solutions, specializes in helping small businesses with branding and operations. She reveals common pitfalls entrepreneurs face, like poor branding cohesion and ineffective online presence. Lyndsay emphasizes the need for strong business foundations to support growth and offers practical tips for managing social media and hiring help. Her insights aim to clarify the path for overwhelmed owners, driving home the importance of documented processes and strategic clarity.

Dec 3, 2025 • 22min
2337 - Practical Tips for Entrepreneurs to Overcome Financial Burnout with Profit Doctor Ben Hansen
In this engaging conversation, Ben Hansen, also known as Profit Doctor, shares his expertise as a profitability strategist who helps mid-sized businesses boost their bottom line. He reveals how emotional resilience and a CEO mindset are crucial for overcoming financial burnout. Ben discusses the dangers of tying self-worth to revenue, urging entrepreneurs to focus on sustainable growth. His concept of 'addition by subtraction' shows how eliminating inefficiencies can lead to increased profits. Listeners will also learn about his innovative Profit Leaks Detector, promising quick financial gains.

Dec 2, 2025 • 16min
2336 - The Untapped Tax Strategies That Build Wealth in Real Estate and Retirement Accounts with Oro Tax Advisors' Danielle Michel
Proactive Tax Strategies for Entrepreneurs: Insights from Danielle Michel, CEO of Oro Tax AdvisorsIn this episode, host Josh Elledge sits down with Danielle Michel, serial entrepreneur, CPA, and CEO/co-founder of Oro Tax Advisors, to unpack the tax strategies most business owners overlook. Danielle shares her journey from running multiple businesses to building a tax advisory firm designed to give small and mid-sized entrepreneurs access to elite, strategic tax planning. This blog distills her most valuable advice—from entity structure to real estate strategies—offering a clear roadmap for business owners who want to save money, protect their wealth, and grow intentionally.Strategic and Underutilized Tax Planning for Business OwnersDanielle opens by emphasizing that true tax savings come from proactive, year-round planning—not the annual scramble most entrepreneurs experience. She explains how ongoing reviews, detailed records, and tax-informed business decisions can prevent costly surprises while unlocking powerful deduction and credit opportunities. The conversation then shifts to often-underused strategies like real estate tax benefits and self-directed retirement accounts, which allow entrepreneurs to accelerate depreciation, diversify taxes, and invest in alternative assets with tax-advantaged structures.Danielle underscores how critical entity structure is, explaining that the right setup can dramatically reduce tax liability as a business grows. Many entrepreneurs start with an LLC but eventually benefit from moving to an S Corporation to optimize self-employment tax and distributions. She also dives into advanced deduction strategies—like accountable plans and strategic reimbursements—that go well beyond standard write-offs, while stressing that tax moves must still align with overall financial goals.Finally, Danielle explains how Oro Tax Advisors stands out with its integrated team of tax strategists, attorneys, compliance experts, and AI-driven systems that make advanced planning accessible to everyday entrepreneurs. She highlights the power of community and ongoing education through Oro’s free membership, live weekly expert calls, and mobile app—all designed to help business owners stay ahead of changes and continually improve their tax literacy.About Danielle MichelDanielle Michel is a CPA, serial entrepreneur, and CEO/co-founder of Oro Tax Advisors. With years of experience running multiple businesses, she helps entrepreneurs optimize taxes, protect wealth, and build strategic financial frameworks. Connect with Danielle on LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/daniellemichelcpa/.About DanielleMichelVentures.comDanielleMichelVentures.com is the online home for Danielle’s tax advisory, education programs, and community resources. Through Oro Tax Advisors and her broader platform, Danielle provides entrepreneurs with proactive tax strategies, integrated advisory support, and access to a free community with weekly expert training.Links Mentioned in This EpisodeDanielle Michel LinkedInDanielle Michel VenturesKey Episode HighlightsMost tax savings come from proactive, year-round planning—not annual filingReal estate strategies (bonus depreciation, cost segregation, RE professional status) are often underusedSelf-directed IRAs/401(k)s unlock alternative investment opportunities with tax advantagesChoosing the right entity (LLC vs. S Corp) is essential for tax efficiencyAdvanced deductions, like accountable plans, outperform basic write-offsIntegrated advisory teams are more effective than fragmented tax/legal supportOngoing tax education helps entrepreneurs stay ahead of changes and opportunitiesConclusionDanielle Michel’s insights reveal just how much opportunity most entrepreneurs leave on the table by treating taxes as an annual obligation instead of a strategic advantage. From choosing the right entity to leveraging advanced real estate and retirement strategies, proactive tax planning can dramatically impact wealth-building and long-term business growth. With the right guidance and consistent learning, business owners can access the same elite tax advantages as major corporations and high-net-worth individuals.🎧 More from The Thoughtful Entrepreneur🎙️ Want to be featured on The Thoughtful Entrepreneur? Get your voice in front of 50K+ listeners.Schedule your guest spot here »🤝 Consultant doing 6+ figures? Let’s introduce you to your next big client, partner, or referral source.See how here »📡 Thinking of launching your own podcast? We’ve built over 250 shows for leaders who now land dream guests (and clients) weekly.See the system here »🚨 What’s Your PodVerified Score? 🎯 Find out how you rank as a podcast guest — and get matched with hosts who actually want you.✅ 2 free podcast matches✅ Dashboard with warm-up plans📎 Media badges to showcase your guest authority💼 Priority access to Founders Club (limited to 100)👉 View the platform »📬 Subscribe to The Thoughtful EntrepreneurNew episodes daily to fuel your impact, visibility, and influence. Thanks for listening — now go build something extraordinary!


