

The Liquid Lunch Project
Matthew Meehan, Luigi Rosabianca
After decades of experience on Wall Street, in finance and building teams of all sizes in multiple industries, Matthew Meehan and Luigi Rosabianca have a world-class understanding of what it takes to scale (and fund) a successful business. They are here to share a No-BS approach to what is involved in growing an empire.
A note before you go any further: This show is only for those who want to grow.
Every episode of this podcast is going to lay out actionable advice for business owners and entrepreneurs who want to grow their business. We have fun here - but the fact remains that everything you want is on the other side of something difficult. This show will help you get to that other side.
A note before you go any further: This show is only for those who want to grow.
Every episode of this podcast is going to lay out actionable advice for business owners and entrepreneurs who want to grow their business. We have fun here - but the fact remains that everything you want is on the other side of something difficult. This show will help you get to that other side.
Episodes
Mentioned books

Sep 16, 2024 • 36min
The Personality Test That Could Save Your Business with Gary Arblaster
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.

Sep 9, 2024 • 35min
From Homeless to Millionaire: How Grace Vandercruze Built Her Legacy
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.

Sep 2, 2024 • 31min
Unpacking Credit Card Fees: Secrets Every Business Owner Should Know
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.

Aug 26, 2024 • 27min
Physical Meets Digital: Enhancing Customer Retention with Custom Boxes
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.

7 snips
Aug 19, 2024 • 39min
From Autism to Impact: The Inspiring Story of the Chintan Project
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.

Aug 12, 2024 • 42min
Going Public®: The New Way to Invest From Your Couch
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.

Aug 5, 2024 • 31min
You Are What You Eat: Practical Tips for Urban Gardeners
Ever wondered how the health of our planet impacts your own well-being? Spoiler: It's more than you think. In this episode of The Liquid Lunch Project, we’re joined by Matthieu Mehuys, a landscape architect and ecological gardening expert, to delve into the importance of biodiversity and sustainable practices. Matthieu shares his journey from growing up on a family farm to teaching others how to create thriving, biodiverse gardens, even in urban settings. Whether you have acres of land or just a windowsill, Matthieu offers practical tips to help you grow your own food and contribute to a healthier planet. The Highlights: Matthieu’s backstory and the beginnings of his fascination with nature The importance of biodiversity and its direct impact on human health Practical tips for urban gardening and maintaining healthy soil The benefits of compost and biochar for your garden The role of cover crops in sustainable agriculture Addressing common gardening myths and misconceptions Exciting projects and stories from Matthieu’s career, including a royal garden in Saudi Arabia Remember, you are what you eat. Find out how growing your own food (the right way!) can boost your health. Don’t miss out on the chance to create your own Garden of Dreams! Favorite Quote: "The health of our planet is directly linked to the health of us humans." Connect with Matthieu: Visit www.gardenofyourdreams.com to access his Masterclass www.paulownia-la.com https://www.facebook.com/matthieu.mehuys https://www.instagram.com/paulownia_la/ https://www.linkedin.com/in/matthieu-mehuys-64b0b5111/ https://www.tiktok.com/@valley.of.eden3 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.

Jul 29, 2024 • 32min
Integrating Security into Software Development with Brittany Greenfield
Is your software security strategy an impenetrable fortress or a crumbling wall of illusions? In this episode of The Liquid Lunch Project, Matthew R. Meehan and Luigi Rosabianca sit down with Brittany Greenfield, the CEO and founder of Wabbi, a continuous Security Platform based in Boston. Wabbi's mission is to simplify the integration of security into the software development lifecycle. By providing scalable application security solutions that seamlessly integrate into DevOps pipelines, Wabbi empowers rapid development teams to bridge the gap between security and development without sacrificing velocity or agility. Brittany shares her journey from being a tech industry rock star to creating a groundbreaking company that integrates security into the software development lifecycle. With a mix of humor and hard-hitting truths, she dives into the importance of embracing imperfections, the realities of cybersecurity, and the critical decisions small and medium-sized businesses must make to protect themselves. Recognized by the Boston Business Journal as a 40 Under 40 honoree and awarded as a top woman in cyber by Cyber Security Excellence and Cyber Defense Magazine, Brittany is a true pioneer in the cybersecurity field. Episode Highlights: The challenges of integrating security into the software development lifecycle. The surprising advice Brittany gives to small business owners about cybersecurity.Real-life examples of cybersecurity breaches and how to prevent them. Her candid take on why she chose to become a founder instead of joining tech giants. Brittany explains the concept of Wabi Sabi and its significance to her company’s philosophy. Brittany's insights are invaluable for anyone looking to understand the complexities of cybersecurity in today's digital landscape. Tune in to discover why securing your software is crucial and learn practical steps to protect your business from cyber threats. Favorite Quote: “Starting a business is where overachievers go to fail 99% of the time. Accept that this journey is inherently imperfect.” Connect with Brittany: https://www.brittanygreenfield.com/ https://www.linkedin.com/in/brittanygreenfield/ 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.

Jul 22, 2024 • 32min
No Code, No Problem: How Non-Techies Can Win Big with Software
Are you ready to scale your business like never before? In this episode of The Liquid Lunch Project, we sit down with Colin Hirdman, a serial entrepreneur who has revolutionized the way businesses grow. Colin shares his insights on the five stages of scaling, the importance of having a vision, and how non-technical entrepreneurs can leverage software to boost their business. From building MVPs to creating SaaS products, Colin’s journey offers invaluable lessons for small business owners and entrepreneurs looking to take their ventures to the next level. Episode Highlights: The Five Stages of Scaling: How to move from a vision to a scalable software product. Building an MVP: Tips for creating a minimum viable product and gathering user feedback. Differentiation and Value: Using software to stand out from competitors and increase your business's value. SaaS Success: Transitioning to a software-as-a-service model for exponential growth. Shared Success Agreements: A creative alternative to traditional funding and equity. Real-Life Lessons: Stories of successful and not-so-successful ventures, including the development of a smart water meter and a viral Twitter tool. Why Listen? This episode is packed with actionable advice for entrepreneurs who want to scale their businesses efficiently and effectively. Colin’s practical tips and real-world examples will inspire you to rethink your approach to growth and leverage technology in innovative ways. Don't miss out on these insights that could transform your business! Favorite Quote: “For non-technical entrepreneurs, there's never been a better time to think about scaling your business with software.” Connect with Collin: https://www.cloudburststudio.com/ https://www.linkedin.com/in/colinhirdman/ 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.

Jul 15, 2024 • 29min
Unlocking the Power of Google Business Profiles with Marilyn Jenkins
Are you struggling to get your small business noticed online? You're not alone. Many small business owners grapple with boosting their online visibility and managing their digital presence effectively. In this episode of The Liquid Lunch Project, we sit down with Marilyn Jenkins, founder of MJ Media Group and Law Marketing Zone, to unravel the secrets of Google Business Profiles. Marilyn sheds light on why a well-maintained Google Business Profile is a game-changer for local businesses. From claiming and verifying your profile to optimizing it with the right keywords and managing reviews, this episode covers it all. Episode Takeaways: Understanding the importance of Google Business Profiles and why they're crucial for local businesses. Step-by-step guide on how to claim and verify your Google Business Profile. Tips for optimizing your profile to improve search visibility. Effective strategies for managing and responding to customer reviews. Insights into how SEO and AI are shaping the future of business searches. Ready to take your business's online presence to the next level? Tune in now and discover how to leverage Google Business Profiles to attract more customers and grow your business. Favorite Quote: "The Google Business Profile is absolutely imperative for every local business." Connect with Marilyn: https://maximizeyourgbp.com/ https://www.facebook.com/marilyn.jenkins.1232 https://www.linkedin.com/in/marilynjenkins/ https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCJaVjBx5VrfFLQNJlPIURJw 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.