The Liquid Lunch Project

Is the real estate market crashing? Or is it finally on sale? That’s (one of) the questions we’re discussing on this episode of The Liquid Lunch Project. Matthew R. Meehan and Luigi Rosabianca welcome Hunter Thompson, capital raising pro and founder of RaisingCapital.com. They go deep on what makes this moment in the market a generational buying opportunity, why most people miss it, and how the smart ones raise money when it's hardest. If you're in the game (or want to be), this episode is your new blueprint. What You’ll Learn: Why the current market downturn is a once-in-20-years buying window How to raise capital when everyone else is panicking The truth about commercial mortgages and interest rate dynamics Real talk on asset classes: mobile homes, self-storage, retail, and more What "Fund of Funds" really means—and how to use it to leapfrog your way in The one question you should ask before trusting a deal: "Would I bet my career on this person?" Favorite Quote: "This market has made more millionaires than anything else. But it's also made more bankruptcies. It's a dangerous game—but it's worth it."  Who is Hunter? Hunter Thompson is the founder of RaisingCapital.com and host of the "Cash Flow Connections" podcast. He’s helped entrepreneurs raise over $100 million and is the author of Amazon's #1 bestseller, Raising Capital for Real Estate. Known for cutting through the noise, Hunter's mission is to give ambitious investors the tools to scale fast and raise capital like a pro. Why Should You Listen? Because sitting on the sidelines doesn’t build wealth. If you're ready to raise serious capital and stop playing small, this episode is your new roadmap. Connect with Hunter: LinkedIn (Personal): https://www.linkedin.com/in/hunterlthompsonofficial/ LinkedIn (Company): https://www.linkedin.com/company/raisingcapital-com/ Website: https://raisingcapital.com   📞 Want help prepping your business for growth or sale? Hit us up at https://api.leadconnectorhq.com/widget/bookings/call-with-credit-banc-pod 🎧 Subscribe. Rate. Share. Repeat. Our website Apple Podcasts  Spotify  Audible  YouTube    📧 Want even more? Subscribe to The Weekly, our Friday morning newsletter, for all the latest in the world of finance, tech, small business, and more.  Available on Substack: https://theweeklyfromshieldadvisory.substack.com/ Connect with us on Instagram: ➡️ @matthew.r.meehan➡️ @luigi_rosabianca, ➡️ https://www.instagram.com/theliquidlunchproject/

Think your business is worth $12 million? It might be closer to $3.5…and here’s why. In this episode, Matt and Luigi sit down with Tom Dillon, founder of Frac Finance, to unpack the brutal realities behind business valuations, botched exits, and what most owners get dead wrong about scaling and selling. From M&A landmines to the truth about fractional CFOs, this one’s a wake-up call for any entrepreneur who thinks they’re ready. What You'll Learn: Why most owners overvalue their business (and what to do about it) The difference between cost-cutting and growth-minded CFOs How the SBA rule changes are shaking up the M&A game Mistakes SMBs make when raising capital or hiring too early Real talk on family businesses, seller financing, and scaling a CFO firm Favorite Quote: “You can't cost-cut your way to profitability forever.” About Our Guest: Tom Dillon is the founder and principal of Frac Finance, a fractional CFO firm helping SMBs scale, prepare for exits, and make smarter financial moves. With a background in investment banking and private equity, Tom brings real-world experience to a space that desperately needs it…and he’s not afraid to ruffle feathers along the way. Why You Should Listen: If you’re a business owner who thinks you’re ready to scale or sell, Tom Dillon will show you exactly why you’re not…and how to fix it before it costs you everything.   Connect with Tom: Twitter / X: https://x.com/profithuntercfo LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/tom-dillon-cfa/ Website: https://www.frakfinance.com/   📞 Want help prepping your business for growth or sale? Hit us up at https://api.leadconnectorhq.com/widget/bookings/call-with-credit-banc-pod 🎧 Subscribe. Rate. Share. Repeat. Our website Apple Podcasts  Spotify  Audible  YouTube    📧 Want even more? Subscribe to The Weekly, our Friday morning newsletter, for all the latest in the world of finance, tech, small business, and more.  Available on Substack: https://theweeklyfromshieldadvisory.substack.com/ Connect with us on Instagram: ➡️ @matthew.r.meehan➡️ @luigi_rosabianca, ➡️ https://www.instagram.com/theliquidlunchproject/

Ever wondered how a move to Alaska could ignite a passion for accounting? Tanya Akimenko's unexpected journey from the icy terrains of Alaska to founding Golden Apple Agency is a testament to resilience and entrepreneurial spirit. In this episode, Matthew R. Meehan and Luigi Rosabianca sit down with Tanya Akimenko, founder of Golden Apple Agency. Tanya shares her unique path into the world of accounting, the challenges small businesses face (especially in the construction industry) and the importance of empathy in financial management. Her insights shed light on effective cash flow strategies, tax planning, and the significance of understanding one's financials for business growth. Episode Highlights Include: Tanya's entry into accounting driven by necessity in remote Alaska. The emotional aspects of financial management for small business owners. Unique challenges in construction accounting and the need for a hybrid method. Strategies for managing cash flow and the importance of cash flow projections. The significance of personalized tax strategies and regular meetings with accountants. The story behind the name "Golden Apple Agency" and its symbolism. Favorite Quote: “Finances with people is not all about numbers and logic. It's all very emotional.” Who is Tanya?Tanya Akimenko is the founder of Golden Apple Agency, a tax and accounting firm dedicated to supporting small businesses. An IRS Enrolled Agent and QuickBooks ProAdvisor, Tanya brings over 15 years of experience in helping entrepreneurs navigate the complexities of financial management. Her mission is to empower business owners with the tools and knowledge they need to thrive.   Why Should You Listen?Cut through the noise and hear how one accountant built a business by actually giving a damn. If you’re serious about making money, keeping more of it, and growing something real…hit play.   Connect with Tanya: Website: https://www.goldenappleagencyinc.com/ Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/goldenappleagency/ Linkedin:https://www.linkedin.com/in/tanyaakimenko/   Like what you heard? Don’t forget to subscribe, rate, and review! 🎧  Listen (or watch) The Liquid Lunch Project on all major platforms, including: Our website Apple Podcasts  Spotify  Audible  YouTube    📧 Want even more? Subscribe to The Weekly, our Friday morning newsletter, for all the latest in the world of finance, tech, small business, and more.  Available on Substack: https://theweeklyfromshieldadvisory.substack.com/ Connect with us on Instagram: ➡️ @matthew.r.meehan➡️ @luigi_rosabianca, ➡️ https://www.instagram.com/theliquidlunchproject/

What do Shakespeare in the Park, a toddler in potty training, and a luxury trailer have in common? One of the weirdest (and most genius) origin stories in business. In this episode of The Liquid Lunch Project, Matt and Luigi sit down with David Sauers, the founder and CEO of Royal Restrooms, a business that turned porta-potty nightmares into a multimillion-dollar, franchise-worthy empire. From a wild incident involving a very bad public restroom to building one of the most recognizable brands in the events industry, David shares how he created a product people didn’t even know they desperately needed. It’s not just about toilets; it’s about vision, grit, franchising lessons, and… a 10-foot HD party screen? What You’ll Learn in This Episode: The porta-potty horror story that sparked a business idea Building a better bathroom… and then building a franchise The legal gut punch from Maryland’s AG (and how it shaped their business) What NOT to do when franchising How wedding planners became their #1 lead source The blinged-out “Vintage Restroom Trailer” that goes for $4,500/day Side hustles that feed the main brand: bars, screens, campers, and more   Favorite Quote: “People laughed at us. Said we were crazy going into the porta-potty business. But every time someone sat down, they didn’t want to go back.”   Who is David? David Sauers is the founder and CEO of Royal Restrooms. Based out of Savannah, Georgia, David launched the company after a terrible porta-potty experience with his kids. He’s since expanded it into a national franchise, and now leads multiple ventures including KrugerBush Campers, Savannah Bar Carts, and more—all aimed at elevating the event experience.   This episode is for you if: You think your business idea is too “weird” to work? This episode proves otherwise. Tune in for a wild ride through unconventional entrepreneurship…and learn why the most successful businesses solve sh*tty problems.   Connect with David: Website (Royal Restrooms) Website (Kruger Bush Campers) TikTok David LinkedIn Instagram YouTube Pinterest X Facebook   Like what you heard? Don’t forget to subscribe, rate, and review! 🎧  Listen (or watch) The Liquid Lunch Project on all major platforms, including: Our website Apple Podcasts  Spotify  Audible  YouTube  📧 Want even more? Subscribe to The Weekly, our Friday morning newsletter, for all the latest in the world of finance, tech, small business, and more.  Available on Substack: https://theweeklyfromshieldadvisory.substack.com/ Connect with us on Instagram: ➡️ @matthew.r.meehan➡️ @luigi_rosabianca, ➡️ https://www.instagram.com/theliquidlunchproject/

Are you confusing bookkeeping with business strategy? In this episode, Matt and Luigi sit down with Salvatore Tirabassi, Managing Director of CFO Pro Analytics, to break down why most business owners are stuck in the past when it comes to CFO support. They unpack the real job of a CFO (spoiler: it’s not just balancing the books) and how fractional CFO services can radically improve financial modeling, raise capital, and get your business ready for whatever’s next. From equity vs. debt to AI tools that save you hours, Sal drops real-world knowledge from decades in the trenches as a VC and CFO. You’ll also hear wild (and painfully relatable) stories from family-owned businesses navigating tariffs, lenders, and internal power shifts.   What You’ll Learn in This Episode: Why the real CFO role goes far beyond bookkeeping What it means to create a “single source of truth” in your business Why being “due diligence ready” is non-negotiable for growth How to handle lender decks and pitch decks like a pro The pros and cons of debt vs. equity—and how to choose the right path How AI tools like Claude are quietly changing the game Favorite Quote: “I would want to show a lender a projection that includes the capital — and here’s what the business looks like with the money.”   About the Guest: Salvatore Tirabasi is the founder and Managing Director of CFO Pro Analytics. With a background in venture capital and private equity, he brings high-level financial strategy to small and mid-sized businesses, delivering enterprise-grade CFO support at a fraction of the cost.   This episode is for you if: You’re tired of reactive financials, want to understand your numbers, or need strategic funding…without the guesswork.   👉 Tune in and find out what it takes to grow smarter, not just harder.   Connect with Salvatore: Facebook Instagram LinkedIn Substack Website Like what you heard? Don’t forget to subscribe, rate, and review! 🎧  Listen (or watch) The Liquid Lunch Project on all major platforms, including: Our website Apple Podcasts  Spotify  Audible  YouTube  📧 Want even more? Subscribe to The Weekly, our Friday morning newsletter, for all the latest in the world of finance, tech, small business, and more.  Available on Substack: https://theweeklyfromshieldadvisory.substack.com/ Connect with us on Instagram: ➡️ @matthew.r.meehan➡️ @luigi_rosabianca, ➡️ https://www.instagram.com/theliquidlunchproject/  

Ever sold your dog for a fat check and got a standing ovation for it? That’s how Aaron Spivak describes selling the company he built from scratch into a $50M powerhouse. In this episode of The Liquid Lunch Project, Matt and Luigi sit down with Aaron, the DJ-turned-juice-slinger-turned-weighted-blanket-mogul, to unpack how grit, delusion, and one viral Kickstarter helped him build Hush, one of the top DTC brands in Canada.  He dives into the real emotional cost of selling a business, why customer conversations are his secret weapon, and how Founders Club is helping entrepreneurs get real support.   What You’ll Learn in This Episode: The stroke that changed everything…and how a side hustle became a lifeline Why Aaron still DJed after hitting $25M in revenue The secret power of calling every single customer (yes, really) How to turn a blanket into a movement (and a $50M exit) What Dragon’s Den taught him about performance, not pitching The real emotional chaos of selling your “business baby” Why Founders Club isn’t another BS mastermind — and who it’s really for Who is Aaron?Aaron Spivak is a serial entrepreneur who co-founded Revita, Hush Blankets, and most recently Founders Club,  a global community for high-growth founders. From DJing bar mitzvahs to delivering mattresses in his Audi, Aaron’s story is anything but typical. Favorite Quote:"When I sold my business, it felt like someone bought my dog and the whole world clapped." Take Action:Tune in to hear why hard work beats hype — and what’s next for the guy who refuses to slow down. Connect with Aaron: Instagram (The Founders Club): @thefoundersclub Website: https://www.aspivak.com Linkedin: https://www.linkedin.com/in/aaron-spivak1/   Like what you heard? Don’t forget to subscribe, rate, and review! 🎧  Listen (or watch) The Liquid Lunch Project on all major platforms, including: Our website Apple Podcasts  Spotify  Audible  YouTube  📧 Want even more? Subscribe to The Weekly, our Friday morning newsletter, for all the latest in the world of finance, tech, small business, and more.  Available on Substack: https://theweeklyfromshieldadvisory.substack.com/ Connect with us on Instagram: ➡️ @matthew.r.meehan➡️ @luigi_rosabianca, ➡️ https://www.instagram.com/theliquidlunchproject/

What if your health routine mattered more than your hustle? Jimmy St. Louis traded shoulder pads for stem cells…and he’s building a business that could outlive us all. In this episode, Matt and Luigi sit down with Jimmy St. Louis (former NFL player, serial entrepreneur, and CEO of Agentis Longevity) to talk about the future of healthcare that doesn’t start in a waiting room. From biohacking to business strategy, Jimmy breaks down how he’s turning the longevity space into a movement; accessible, affordable, and built for people who actually live in the real world (no ice baths required).   What we’re covering: Why true longevity starts with understanding your own damn body The difference between hormone therapy and doping (yes, there’s a line) What private equity actually looks like behind the scenes The “rest, recover, repeat” rule that applies to business and life How Jimmy grew a med-tech company from 9 to thousands of employees Biohacks that aren’t just for billionaires…or Brian Johnson wannabes Why his daughter is already smarter about EMFs than most adults   Who is Jimmy?  Jimmy St. Louis is a former Tennessee Titans tight end, U.S. National Rower, multi-exit entrepreneur, and current CEO of Agentis Longevity, a healthcare platform redefining how everyday people access elite-level health optimization.   Favorite Quote: "If you add something new to your lifestyle, something else has to change."   Take Action: Want to know what NFL grit, Wall Street brains, and regenerative medicine have in common? Tune in now to find out; this episode is a game-changer for anyone serious about playing the long game in business and health.   Connect with Jimmy: Website LinkedIn   Like what you heard? Don’t forget to subscribe, rate, and review! 🎧  Listen (or watch) The Liquid Lunch Project on all major platforms, including: Our website Apple Podcasts  Spotify  Audible  YouTube    📧 Want even more? Subscribe to The Weekly, our Friday morning newsletter, for all the latest in the world of finance, tech, small business, and more.  Available on Substack: https://theweeklyfromshieldadvisory.substack.com/ Connect with us on Instagram: ➡️ @matthew.r.meehan➡️ @luigi_rosabianca, ➡️ https://www.instagram.com/theliquidlunchproject/

What if your biggest tax burden could be flipped into your greatest asset? In this episode, Matt and Luigi sit down with Sean Graham, a CPA turned real estate entrepreneur who’s turning self-storage and depreciation into a business superpower. Sean walks us through his journey from cubicle life to building a real estate empire…one shed at a time…and breaks down how cost segregation isn’t just tax strategy; it’s tax sorcery. You’ll learn how he used FHA and SBA loans to scale his real estate portfolio, why self-storage remains hot (even when interest rates don’t), and how small business owners can leverage tax tools most people have never even heard of. Episode Highlights: Why FHA loans are a perfect starter hack for young investors How Sean scaled from duplexes to commercial storage units using SBA loans What cost segregation actually is—and why it matters to small business owners Three ways to legally offset active income using real estate depreciation The "lazy 1031 exchange" explained How to avoid paying depreciation recapture When it makes sense to DIY cost seg (spoiler: it doesn’t) The wildest short-term rental project Sean ever worked on Sean’s tips for building scalable, remote-first real estate operations Favorite Quote: "The easiest entrance into entrepreneurship is through real estate. You don’t have to recreate the wheel." Who is Sean? Sean Graham is a licensed CPA, entrepreneur, and the founder of Maven Cost Seg, where he helps real estate investors legally reduce their tax liabilities through cost segregation studies. With a background in accounting and a passion for real estate, Sean has carved out a niche in self-storage and teaches others how to build wealth without begging Uncle Sam to take less. Take Action: Think you’re paying too much in taxes? You probably are. Hit play and find out how Sean’s strategies could save you five to six figures this year alone. Then head to mavencostseg.com/liquid for a free estimate and an exclusive discount for our listeners.   Connect with Sean: Facebook LinkedIn Website  Like what you heard? Don’t forget to subscribe, rate, and review!   🎧  Listen (or watch) The Liquid Lunch Project on all major platforms, including: Our website Apple Podcasts  Spotify  Audible  YouTube    📧 Want even more? Subscribe to The Weekly, our Friday morning newsletter, for all the latest in the world of finance, tech, small business, and more.    Available on Substack: https://theweeklyfromshieldadvisory.substack.com/ Connect with us on Instagram: ➡️ @matthew.r.meehan ➡️ @luigi_rosabianca, ➡️ https://www.instagram.com/theliquidlunchproject/

Think you're making money just because the bank account isn’t empty? Hate to break it to you…but that’s not how business works. In this episode of The Liquid Lunch Project, Matt and Luigi sit down with Teresa Wagonseller, founder of HigherUp CFO Services, to rip the lid off a big misconception: small businesses don’t need a CFO. Spoiler alert—they do.  Teresa explains the difference between CPAs and CFOs (hint: one is stuck in the past, the other helps you build a future), breaks down what cash flow actually is (and why you probably suck at managing it), and gives real-world examples of turning hot messes into money-makers. Episode Highlights: CFOs focus on growth; CPAs focus on compliance—know the difference. You don’t need to be a Fortune 500 company to afford a CFO. Fractional CFOs give small biz owners expert support without breaking the bank. Cash flow problems? Look at who owes you, who you owe, and fix your damn terms. Contractors, SaaS founders, and even doctors are all flying blind without financial leadership. Stop “hiding profits” for tax purposes if you ever want to sell your business. Liquidity > Cash. Plan like a boss, not like you're dodging Uncle Sam. Favorite Quote: “The main difference between the two is a CPA is focused on the past… the CFO is focused on the future.”   Who is Teresa? Teresa Wagonseller is a CPA-turned-fractional CFO who’s worked with everything from mom-and-pop shops to billion-dollar companies. Her firm, HigherUp CFO Services, helps business owners stop winging it with their money and start making strategic decisions that lead to growth, profit, and actual peace of mind. Take Action: If you’ve ever wondered where the hell your money is going, this episode is your wake-up call. Hit play. Then hit up a CFO.   Connect With Teresa: Facebook LinkedIn  Website Like what you heard? Don’t forget to subscribe, rate, and review! 🎧  Listen (or watch) The Liquid Lunch Project on all major platforms, including: Our website Apple Podcasts Spotify Audible YouTube    📧 Want even more? Subscribe to The Weekly, our Friday morning newsletter, for all the latest in the world of finance, tech, small business, and more.    Available on Substack: https://theweeklyfromshieldadvisory.substack.com/ Connect with us on Instagram: ➡️ @matthew.r.meehan ➡️ @luigi_rosabianca, ➡️ https://www.instagram.com/theliquidlunchproject/

Ever wonder how a restaurant brand with over 120 locations keeps every burger, every plate, every pour consistently badass? Meet the man who makes it happen. In this episode of The Liquid Lunch Project, Matthew R. Meehan and Luigi Rosabianca sit down with Chef Alex Sadowsky, the culinary engine behind Twin Peaks. From preserving brand soul across hundreds of locations to balancing artistry and business, Chef Alex gets real about what it takes to succeed in the restaurant game. The guys dive into food trends, pandemic pivots, whiskey preferences, and what keeps Twin Peaks from turning into just another cookie-cutter chain.  If you're a foodie, entrepreneur, or anyone who appreciates a damn good smash burger, don’t miss this one. Episode Highlights: How to scale quality across 120+ restaurants (Hint: Give a sh*t) Why regional flavors matter—and how they maintain consistency COVID-19 as a "springboard" to streamline and double the business Chef vs. Entrepreneur: Where artistry meets profitability Why the celebrity chef dream isn’t all it's cracked up to be Advice for young culinary grads entering a high-attrition industry The underrated job security in food service (robots can’t cook vibes) What Starbucks forgot—and how Twin Peaks avoids that fate Franchising vs. corporate ownership: Maintaining brand soul Whiskey > Tequila? Chef Alex makes his case Who is Alex? Chef Alex Sadowsky is the VP of Culinary Innovation at Twin Peaks, a publicly traded sports bar brand with 100+ locations across the U.S. and Mexico. With roots in fine dining and a passion for pragmatic scaling, Alex has mastered the balance between chef-driven creativity and operational excellence. Favorite Quote: “Robots cannot replace the human part of the restaurant. We'll always have some job security. Everybody's got to eat.”   🎧 Tune in to hear how a Culinary Institute grad rang the NASDAQ bell and built a food empire—without losing his edge. Connect With Alex: Twin Peaks Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/twinpeaksrestaurants/?hl=en Alex Linkedin: https://www.linkedin.com/in/alexander-sadowsky-677466a1/ Twin Peaks Linkedin: https://www.linkedin.com/in/alexander-sadowsky-677466a1/ Twin Peaks Website: https://twinpeaksrestaurant.com Like what you heard? Don’t forget to subscribe, rate, and review! 🎧  Listen (or watch) The Liquid Lunch Project on all major platforms, including:   Our website: https://theliquidlunchproject.com Apple Podcasts: https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/the-liquid-lunch-project/ Spotify: https://open.spotify.com/show/12HPEDMmsbfsp8tHt5LiZJ Audible: https://shorturl.at/6j4vz YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@Credit_Banc   📧 Want even more? Subscribe to The Weekly, our Friday morning newsletter, for all the latest in the world of finance, tech, small business, and more.    Available on Substack: https://theweeklyfromshieldadvisory.substack.com/   Connect with us on Instagram: ➡️ @matthew.r.meehan ➡️ @luigi_rosabianca, ➡️ https://www.instagram.com/theliquidlunchproject/