The Liquid Lunch Project

Are you leaving money on the table because you’re too busy running your business? You might be – and today’s guest is here to show you why and how you can fix it.   In this mini-episode of The Liquid Lunch Project, we sit down with James Donovan, the founder of Nine Two Media, to discuss the art of networking and marketing for accountants. James shares his unconventional journey from selling adult ad space to becoming a LinkedIn marketing powerhouse for accounting firms and fractional CFOs. His innovative approach to leveraging LinkedIn profiles and appointment setting has helped firms across the U.S. generate serious revenue, even in the traditionally skeptical accounting space. Tune in for our conversation about what works in modern B2B marketing, why accountants need help asking for the sale, and how you can apply these same strategies to your business. Episode Highlights:   What it’s like selling ad space over Skype—no Zoom, no calls, just text! How LinkedIn is James’ secret weapon for transforming accounting firms’ marketing efforts. How Nine Two Media brings in over $40k of new revenue for their clients. The appointment setting process—how James’ team handles everything from the first outreach to closing the deal.   If you’re an entrepreneur, small business owner, or accountant who struggles to get clients without spamming LinkedIn or burning out on marketing, this mini-episode is a must-listen!   Favorite Quote:   “A boring LinkedIn profile is a waste of digital space.” Connect with James: https://www.facebook.com/jamesdonovanntm https://www.linkedin.com/in/jamesbdonovan/ https://www.youtube.com/channel/UClYmSOi00EbmsDgstSWLHgQ   Stay Connected: Connect with Matt and Luigi on Instagram: @matthew.r.meehan @luigi_rosabianca @theLiquidLunchProject @ShieldAdvisoryGroup Visit The Liquid Lunch Project website and subscribe to The Weekly, our Friday morning newsletter, for all the latest in the world of finance, tech, small business, and more. www.theliquidlunchproject.com Make sure you never miss an episode — check out The Liquid Lunch Project on Apple Podcasts, and don’t forget to subscribe, rate, and review.

What if your business financing could be as flexible as your daily needs?  Enter Revenued. In this episode of The Liquid Lunch Project, we sit down with Solomon Lax, CEO of Revenued, to discuss the game-changing approach to small business financing. Solomon and his team have turned traditional financing on its head by introducing an innovative product that replaces the outdated MCA (Merchant Cash Advance) with something far more flexible and scalable. The conversation dives into the intricate details of the small business funding space, exploring how Revenued's flex line is designed to meet the specific needs of businesses in real-time. Solomon also shares valuable insights on the risks and rewards of the financing world, lessons learned during the COVID-19 crisis, and how AI and machine learning are transforming the industry. Key Takeaways: How Revenued replaces traditional MCA products with a flex line Why 'go fast and break things' doesn't apply to the finance world The impact of COVID-19 on small business lending and how Revenued adapted Revenued's pivotal role in processing PPP loans during the pandemic The dark side of fraud in small business financing and how to avoid it Solomon’s vision for the future of small business financing through AI If you're a small business owner navigating the tricky waters of financing or want to understand how the industry is evolving with AI and machine learning, this episode is for you. Solomon's expertise and candid approach offer invaluable insights that could change the way you think about business funding.   Favorite Quote:   “AI is going to change small business financing forever, making it more accessible and personalized. That’s where this is headed." Connect with Solomon https://www.revenued.com https://www.linkedin.com/in/sol-lax-bb190/ https://www.linkedin.com/company/revenued/about/   Stay Connected: Connect with Matt and Luigi on Instagram: @matthew.r.meehan @luigi_rosabianca @theLiquidLunchProject @ShieldAdvisoryGroup Visit The Liquid Lunch Project website and subscribe to The Weekly, our Friday morning newsletter, for all the latest in the world of finance, tech, small business, and more. www.theliquidlunchproject.com Make sure you never miss an episode — check out The Liquid Lunch Project on Apple Podcasts, and don’t forget to subscribe, rate, and review.  

Is your business constantly scrambling to keep up with the latest tech trends? You're not alone. In this episode of The Liquid Lunch Project, we bring in Ryan Pollyniak from Western Computer to help untangle the complex world of enterprise technology. With over 17 years of experience in the Microsoft Dynamics ecosystem, Ryan is your go-to guide for understanding how to leverage ERP (Enterprise Resource Planning) and CRM (Customer Relationship Management) systems to streamline your operations and boost growth.  Join us as we do a deep dive with Ryan into why Microsoft Dynamics stands out in a crowded field, how small to medium-sized businesses can effectively implement these powerful tools, and what the future holds with AI advancements in the tech landscape.    Episode Highlights: What exactly is an ERP? Ryan breaks it down for the uninitiated. The edge Microsoft Dynamics has over competitors like NetSuite and SAP. How Western Computer helps SMBs integrate powerful tools seamlessly. Timing your tech upgrade: When should a company move to a more advanced ERP? The future of AI in business applications—what's coming next? Why You Should Listen: If you're a small to medium-sized business owner looking to upgrade your tech game, this episode is packed with insights that can save you time, money, and a lot of headaches. Ryan shares invaluable advice on choosing the right systems and avoiding common pitfalls. Don't miss out—your business's future tech strategy could depend on it.   Favorite Quote: You don't want to be caught flat-footed when your company starts to grow. Start planning your tech upgrade now.   Connect with Ryan: https://www.linkedin.com/in/microsoftdynamicssolutions/ https://www.westerncomputer.com   Stay Connected: Connect with Matt and Luigi on Instagram: @matthew.r.meehan @luigi_rosabianca @theLiquidLunchProject @ShieldAdvisoryGroup Visit The Liquid Lunch Project website and subscribe to The Weekly, our Friday morning newsletter, for all the latest in the world of finance, tech, small business, and more. www.theliquidlunchproject.com Make sure you never miss an episode — check out The Liquid Lunch Project on Apple Podcasts, and don’t forget to subscribe, rate, and review.

Scaling your business doesn’t have to be a chaotic mess of spreadsheets and sticky notes.   In this episode of The Liquid Lunch Project, we’re cutting through the noise and diving straight into what it takes to build a business that not only survives but thrives.   Our guest, John Burdett, is the Founder and CEO of Fast Slow Motion—a company that’s all about turning good businesses into great ones. By blending technology and process consulting, John has helped countless business owners streamline their operations, reclaim their time, and truly scale their companies without burning out.   Episode Highlights:   The unique 'Fast Slow Motion' approach to business growth. How to avoid common pitfalls when scaling up. Real-life case studies of businesses transformed by smart processes. The critical role of systems and procedures in achieving scalability. Why the mantra 'consistency over perfection' is key to sustainable growth.   Get ready to change the way you think about scaling your business.    If you’re looking for practical, no-nonsense strategies to take your company to the next level, this episode is for you. Listen now to start building a business that works for you, not the other way around! Favorite Quote: “Consistency compounds just like money.”   Connect with John: https://www.fastslowmotion.com/ https://www.linkedin.com/in/jburdett/ https://www.fastslowmotion.com https://www.facebook.com/fastslo https://twitter.com/fastslowmotion https://www.instagram.com/fastslowmotionconsultants/https://www.youtube.com/channel/UC-f1RnX3vU97PuVjUDc2RLA     Stay Connected: Connect with Matt and Luigi on Instagram: @matthew.r.meehan @luigi_rosabianca @theLiquidLunchProject @ShieldAdvisoryGroup Visit The Liquid Lunch Project website and subscribe to The Weekly, our Friday morning newsletter, for all the latest in the world of finance, tech, small business, and more. www.theliquidlunchproject.com Make sure you never miss an episode — check out The Liquid Lunch Project on Apple Podcasts, and don’t forget to subscribe, rate, and review.

Ever wonder if your financial decisions are being driven by more than just logic? What if your personality is secretly pulling the strings?   In this episode of The Liquid Lunch Project, we sit down with Gary Arblaster, a financial expert and creator of the 41 Financial Personality Assessment. Gary dives into how our innate personalities dictate our financial choices, often without us even realizing it. Through insightful stories and expert analysis, Gary reveals how understanding your financial personality can be the key to making better decisions for your business and personal life.   Episode Highlights:   Gary’s journey from skepticism to becoming a human behavior consultant. How our personality traits influence our financial decisions and the two key factors that drive these choices. The 41 Financial Personality Assessment and its roots in the DISC personality model. The importance of communication in business and how personality assessments can improve team dynamics. Why understanding your business’s financial reports is crucial for long-term success. The impact of generational differences on financial behavior and the enduring influence of personality. Ready to discover how your personality shapes your financial decisions?    Tune in to this episode and learn how to turn your financial wiring into a strength, not a weakness.  Favorite Quote:   “If someone understands who they are, they hone in on their strengths and hire out their weaknesses—that’s what makes the success.” Connect with Gary: https://www.linkedin.com/in/gary-arblaster-jr   Stay Connected: Connect with Matt and Luigi on Instagram: @matthew.r.meehan @luigi_rosabianca @theLiquidLunchProject @ShieldAdvisoryGroup Visit The Liquid Lunch Project website and subscribe to The Weekly, our Friday morning newsletter, for all the latest in the world of finance, tech, small business, and more. www.theliquidlunchproject.com Make sure you never miss an episode — check out The Liquid Lunch Project on Apple Podcasts, and don’t forget to subscribe, rate, and review.  

How do you go from a homeless shelter to advising on $25 billion in transactions? This journey is nothing short of extraordinary.   In this episode of The Liquid Lunch Project, we sit down with Grace Vandercruze, founder and managing director of Grace Global Capital LLC. Grace’s story is a powerful testament to resilience, determination, and unyielding ambition. From her challenging upbringing to becoming a leading figure in the world of mergers and acquisitions, Grace shares the unvarnished truth about her journey, the hurdles she’s overcome, and the mindset that propelled her to the top.   Episode Highlights:   Grace’s early life and the influence of her grandmother  The transformative experience of losing her home to a fire Overcoming adversity while living in a homeless shelter Transitioning from Ernst & Young to Merrill and then founding Grace Global Capital The challenges of being an African-American woman on Wall Street Insights on financial wellness and her best-selling book Mountain climbing and its impact on her mental strength   Who is Grace?   Grace Vandercruze is the founder and managing director of Grace Global Capital LLC, a firm specializing in M&A financial advisory, restructuring, and valuation for the insurance industry. With over $25 billion in advisory transactions under her belt, Grace has a storied career that includes senior roles at Swiss Re, Merrill Lynch, and a private equity firm. She is a Wharton MBA, a CPA, and a board member of several prominent companies. Grace is also an accomplished mountaineer, sailor, and the author of the best-selling book "Homeless to Millionaire: 6 Keys to Uplift Your Financial Abundance."   This episode is a must-listen for every entrepreneur and small business owner looking to learn from a true trailblazer. Discover the mindset and strategies that helped her turn adversity into opportunity. Favorite Quote:   “Allow impostor syndrome to be your companion. Just make sure that it's not the loudest voice you're hearing.” Connect with Grace: https://www.graceglobalcapital.com/ https://www.financialabundancewithgrace.com/   Stay Connected: Connect with Matt and Luigi on Instagram: @matthew.r.meehan @luigi_rosabianca @theLiquidLunchProject @ShieldAdvisoryGroup Visit The Liquid Lunch Project website and subscribe to The Weekly, our Friday morning newsletter, for all the latest in the world of finance, tech, small business, and more. www.theliquidlunchproject.com Make sure you never miss an episode — check out The Liquid Lunch Project on Apple Podcasts, and don’t forget to subscribe, rate, and review.

Credit card fees seem to multiply like rabbits, don’t they? Well, strap in because this week’s episode will lift the curtain on the complex world of credit card processing!   Matthew R. Meehan and Luigi Rosabianca dive deep into the labyrinthine world of credit card processing with Jeff Maine, founder and president of PayProudly. Jeff unpacks the intricate details of credit card fees, sheds light on industry secrets, and shares invaluable advice for small business owners looking to navigate this convoluted terrain. From understanding interchange categories to the future of payment systems, this episode is a treasure trove of insights.   Episode Highlights:   Breaking down the 3-4% credit card fee components. The role of interchange categories and how they affect different businesses. How effective rate impacts small businesses. The importance of transparency in credit card processing. Different types of platforms and options available for businesses. The future of credit card payments and emerging technologies. Real-life examples of risk management in credit card processing. How businesses can qualify for lower interchange rates. The evolution and future of credit cards, including biometrics and contactless payments.   Who is Jeff? Jeff Maine is the founder and president of PayProudly, a company dedicated to bringing transparency and fairness to the credit card processing industry. With years of experience and a passion for helping businesses save on transaction fees, Jeff is an expert in demystifying the often confusing world of credit card payments.   Why Listen? Ready to unravel the mysteries behind your credit card fees? Tune in now to learn from Jeff Maine and discover how to make credit card processing work for your business. Don’t miss out on these industry secrets that could save you money and headaches! Favorite Quote: “People live on credit. That's how they operate. I don't see that changing.”   Connect with Jeff: https://www.linkedin.com/in/jeff-maine-58203b6/ https://www.facebook.com/PayProudly www.payproudly.com jmaine@payproudly.com   Stay Connected: Connect with Matt and Luigi on Instagram: @matthew.r.meehan @luigi_rosabianca @theLiquidLunchProject @ShieldAdvisoryGroup Visit The Liquid Lunch Project website and subscribe to The Weekly, our Friday morning newsletter, for all the latest in the world of finance, tech, small business, and more. www.theliquidlunchproject.com Make sure you never miss an episode — check out The Liquid Lunch Project on Apple Podcasts, and don’t forget to subscribe, rate, and review.

Ever wonder how a physical touchpoint can revolutionize your digital business strategy?   In this episode of The Liquid Lunch Project, we sit down with Mark Stern, founder of Custom Box Agency. Mark shares his journey from a top-ranked strategy consultant at Deloitte to a pioneering entrepreneur who’s redefining customer engagement with custom box experiences. Discover how Mark’s innovative approach to merging physical and digital realms is helping businesses enhance customer journeys, increase retention, and boost lifetime value. Episode Highlights:   Mark’s transition from Deloitte to Custom Box Agency The concept and goals behind custom box experiences How box experiences can be tailored for various industries The process of creating and designing a custom box The benefits of tying physical items to digital experiences Insights into the manufacturing and shipping process Mark’s favorite projects and innovative product ideas   Mark Stern is the mastermind behind Custom Box Agency, an award-winning firm known for its innovative 'box experiences' that bring digital offers to life. With a background in strategy consulting at Deloitte, Mark has successfully transitioned to entrepreneurship, launching over 100 campaigns that optimize customer journeys and drive business growth. His work has garnered attention for its ability to increase conversions, reduce churn, and extend customer lifetime value.   Tune in to this episode to discover how Mark Stern's Custom Box Agency is revolutionizing customer engagement. Whether you're a small business owner or a seasoned entrepreneur, you'll gain valuable insights into creating memorable experiences that keep customers coming back.  Favorite Quote:   “If I tied something physical to my digital offer, and you did not, I bet I beat you every day of the week just because I have a more differentiated experience.” Connect with Mark: www.customboxagency.com https://facebook.com/customboxagency https://instagram.com/customboxagency https://www.linkedin.com/company/custom-box-agency/   Stay Connected: Connect with Matt and Luigi on Instagram: @matthew.r.meehan @luigi_rosabianca @theLiquidLunchProject @ShieldAdvisoryGroup Visit The Liquid Lunch Project website and subscribe to The Weekly, our Friday morning newsletter, for all the latest in the world of finance, tech, small business, and more. www.theliquidlunchproject.com Make sure you never miss an episode — check out The Liquid Lunch Project on Apple Podcasts, and don’t forget to subscribe, rate, and review.  

How do you turn life’s greatest challenges into your biggest triumphs? Meet the father-son duo redefining what it means to overcome and succeed. In this episode of The Liquid Lunch Project, we sit down with Dr. Kumar Ramlall and his son, Amit Ramlall, to discuss the incredible journey behind the Chintan Project. From navigating the complexities of autism to consulting small businesses on human behavior and strategic exits, Dr. Kumar and Amit share their unique insights and experiences. This conversation dives deep into the essence of human tenacity, the importance of understanding human behavior in business, and how leveraging both friction and collaboration can propel companies forward. Guest Bio: Dr. Kumar Ramlall is a seasoned physician and a visionary leader who has dedicated his life to understanding and solving human problems. His son, Amit Ramlall, despite his challenges with autism, has emerged as a profound thinker and an invaluable partner in their consulting venture, the Chintan Project. Together, they help businesses and individuals navigate complex challenges with a blend of scientific insight and human empathy. Episode Highlights: Amit’s unique method of communication and the story behind it The inception and mission of the Chintan Project How understanding human behavior can enhance business operations The strategic use of friction in business negotiations Identifying and working with strategic buyers The meaning and significance of the word 'Chintan' Three actionable tips for business owners to move into action Amit’s personal purpose and vision Join us on this inspiring journey and discover how the principles of the Chintan Project can transform your approach to business and life.    Favorite Quote: “What do you want? Why do you want it? That's still, all these years later, probably the most important thing that we help buyers and sellers with.”   Connect with Dr. Kumar Ramlall and Amit https://www.chintanproject.com https://www.facebook.com/kumar.ramlall  https://www.linkedin.com/in/kumar-ramlall-77930217/ https://www.facebook.com/amit.ramlall.98/ https://www.linkedin.com/in/amit-ramlall-83b829189/ Stay Connected: Connect with Matt and Luigi on Instagram: @matthew.r.meehan @luigi_rosabianca @theLiquidLunchProject @ShieldAdvisoryGroup Visit The Liquid Lunch Project website and subscribe to The Weekly, our Friday morning newsletter, for all the latest in the world of finance, tech, small business, and more. www.theliquidlunchproject.com Make sure you never miss an episode — check out The Liquid Lunch Project on Apple Podcasts, and don’t forget to subscribe, rate, and review.

Ever wished you could play real-life Shark Tank from your living room? Well, buckle up because this episode of The Liquid Lunch Project is about to blow your entrepreneurial mind!  We sit down with Darren Marble, the Executive Producer of Going Public® and CEO of Issuance. Darren's here to share his wild journey from Wall Street to Hollywood, creating an interactive TV series that lets you, yes YOU, click-to-invest in startups as you watch. Get ready to dive into the chaos, the genius, and the downright insanity of blending reality TV with real-life investing.   Episode Highlights: Crazy or Genius? Darren's vision to merge Hollywood and Wall Street Five Years in the Making: The rollercoaster ride of launching season one Ten Puzzle Pieces: Navigating the legal and financial labyrinth to bring Going Public® to life The Click-to-Invest Revolution: How you can become an investor without leaving your couch Star Power: Featuring NBA superstar Baron Davis and other celeb cameos No Fluff Zone: Darren's take on resilience, grit, and why most founders quit too soon Sobriety as a Superpower: Darren's personal journey and its impact on his entrepreneurial success Who is Darren?  Darren is the mastermind behind Going Public®, a groundbreaking TV series that turns viewers into investors. Not only is he shaking up the TV world, but he's also the CEO of Issuance, a fintech powerhouse that’s transforming how companies raise capital. Darren's the kind of entrepreneur who thinks outside the box, then blows the box up and builds a spaceship instead. Don't miss this electrifying episode to discover how you can join the investment revolution from your living room and maybe even get inspired to create your own game-changing idea.    Favorite Quote: “Our vision here is to create the CNBC of private markets. It's a big vision, it's audacious, but we've got something unique.”   Connect with Darren: www.goingpublic.com www.issuance.com https://www.instagram.com/goingpublic/?hl=en  https://www.linkedin.com/in/darrenmarble/  https://twitter.com/darrenmarble?ref_src=twsrc%5Egoogle%7Ctwcamp%5Eserp%7Ctwgr%5Eauthor   Stay Connected: Connect with Matt and Luigi on Instagram: @matthew.r.meehan @luigi_rosabianca @theLiquidLunchProject @ShieldAdvisoryGroup Visit The Liquid Lunch Project website and subscribe to The Weekly, our Friday morning newsletter, for all the latest in the world of finance, tech, small business, and more. www.theliquidlunchproject.com Make sure you never miss an episode — check out The Liquid Lunch Project on Apple Podcasts, and don’t forget to subscribe, rate, and review.