The Liquid Lunch Project

Wondering how technology fuels small business success?    Dave Sobel is our guest this week to talk about "the business of tech” and discuss the democratization of tech, accessibility risks, and the balance between automation and human interaction. Find out why small businesses need to invest in technology to make more money, communicate better, and manage teams effectively. Dave talks about everything from keeping your business safe from cyber-attacks to the importance of human connection. (And for any Trekkies out there, you'll love some of the references.)    Don't miss this episode that gives you the inside track on how small businesses can thrive in the digital age.   Episode Highlights: Effective Decision Making for Tech Investments Balancing Advancements with Human Interaction Knowing When to Hire IT Services The Impact of AI and ChatGPT Societal Responsibility in Technological Change Favorite Quote: “I don't necessarily think there's a ‘too far’. I think there's a ‘wrong direction’.”  Connect with Dave: Website: https://businessof.tech/  Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/mspradionews/ Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/mspradio/ Twitter: https://twitter.com/MSPRadioNews Youtube: https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCu0s5jO5LM-iLZgOK_seAzA     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.

In this episode, we welcomed special guest Brian Childress, a seasoned software architect and fractional CTO, to help us unravel the pivotal role of technology in today's business world.    Nowadays, every business, regardless of size, can be a technology business by using automation to streamline operations and enhance customer interactions. Brian shares insights on how small and medium-sized companies can effectively integrate technology, emphasizing the importance of aligning technology adoption with specific business goals, and offers practical advice on choosing affordable platforms to improve customer interactions.    And if you're considering building your own software, listen to this episode first to make sure you understand your goals and avoid potential pitfalls.   Tech talk can be overwhelming (especially for the "un-techie), but Brian has a great way of breaking it down into easy-to-understand language that demystifies the tech landscape.   Whether you're a tech enthusiast or a business owner looking to navigate the digital realm, this episode has something for everyone. Episode Highlights:   The role of technology in business Building custom software: Tips and warnings Regaining control of your software assets Ethical considerations in software development Protecting your business against AI threats His favorite software - and why Favorite Quote:   “The value that we can create from the data that we're able to collect and the way that we're able to leverage that data to better serve our customers…that's where I think we're seeing that real adoption towards technology and how it's powering businesses.” Connect with Brian:   Website: https://brianchildress.co/ LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/brian-childress/ Twitter: https://twitter.com/_brianchildress   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.

In this week's episode, we're joined by Rodric Lenhart, the #1 best-selling author and lifelong entrepreneur behind "Million Dollar Flip Flops." Lenhart candidly shares experiences, emphasizing a crucial message—entrepreneurs are not alone in the hustle. Lenhart believes the fear of uncertainty often holds people back, preventing necessary shifts in their business or life. He introduces the concept of the five phases of entrepreneurship, stressing the importance of recognizing the need for change. From the optimistic "believer" stage to the insightful "showman" stage and the reflective "anxious philosopher" stage, his six-week roadmap is the solution to help bring you true fulfillment and success - not just financially but also in personal growth. This episode promises a rich blend of wisdom, camaraderie, and a roadmap for entrepreneurs navigating change. Tune in for inspiration, guidance, and a reminder that the entrepreneurial journey is a shared experience. Episode Highlights: Why entrepreneurship is innate, not taught The importance of finding fulfilling work Why time is our most valuable currency The work his “Send a Student Abroad” Foundation is doing The story behind the flip-flops A free quiz to determine where you land on the 5 phases of the entrepreneurial journey   Favorite Quote: “People just do things because that's what they're supposed to do. They never stop and ask themselves why.”   Connect with Rodric: Website: http://www.milliondollarflipflops.com/  Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/MillionDollarFlipFlops/  Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/milliondollarflipflops/ LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/rodriclenhart/  YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@milliondollarflipflops   TikTok: https://www.tiktok.com/@milliondollarflipflops     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.

Tired of feeling like your business controls you rather than the other way around? Join Chad Harward, CEO of Pinpoint Management, as he unravels the connection between contractor burnout and the mental game. With 45% of owners facing burnout, Chad advises a shift to controllable factors, from marketing to team building. His team does this by focusing on four pillars: Creating Mental Space, Growing & Scaling, Reverse Engineering the Math, and Increasing Speed of Execution.    Key Takeaways: Chad addresses cash flow challenges in commercial projects. Offering strategies for sustained financial stability and growth. Actionable steps to overcome the skilled labor shortage. Navigating generational shifts and recruitment strategies.   Whether a seasoned contractor or an aspiring owner, this episode is your condensed blueprint for success.   Favorite Quote:   “If I can have three cogs to make my wheel go, I'd rather do that than nine cogs because I’ve got to manage every one of those.”   Connect with Chad:   Website: https://ppmanagement.com/ Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/pinpointmgmt LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/chad-harward-business-consultant-to-maximize-your-freedom/     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.

Ready to unlock the mind of a visionary?   Join us for a truly captivating conversation with Justin Breen, founder and CEO of BrEpic Communications. We take a deep dive into Breen's philosophy as he explores the fundamental differences between visionaries, business owners, and consultants.    Breen's mantra is all about action and execution, urging listeners to focus on what they love and are good at, echoing the belief that the essence of business falls into place when personal passions are pursued. Learn about Breen's unique skills in discernment and simplification as he shares how connecting with visionaries to serve humanity forms the core of his mission.   In this episode, Breen challenges conventional wisdom, arguing that true visionaries are born with a distinctive mindset. Drawing on personal experiences, including the inspiring story of his World War II hero father, Breen sheds light on the resilience and innate qualities that differentiate visionaries from others.   We believe Justin Breen's wisdom and experiences will leave you feeling empowered to unlock your own potential and contribute to the positive change our world needs. Click listen...then take action! Favorite Quote: “If you're not a litmus test for the people you serve, that's hypocrisy.” Connect with Justin: Website: https://brepicnetwork.org Facebook:  https://www.facebook.com/BrEpicBreen/ Instagram:  https://www.instagram.com/brepicbreen/ LinkedIn:  https://www.linkedin.com/in/justinbreen1/ Twitter: hhttps://twitter.com/BrEpicBreen     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.

Ready to build an unstoppable sales team?   Today's guest is Doug Mitchell, author, fellow podcaster, and President of "Building Great Seals Teams." Mitchell dives into the nitty-gritty of constructing successful sales teams. He introduces the game-changing concept of "CODAC"—a strategic framework comprising Compensation, Opportunity, Development, Operations, and Culture. Mitchell breaks down each element, starting with the critical aspect of compensation. Learn why a crystal-clear compensation plan is the cornerstone of a high-performing sales team, offering a pathway to six-figure incomes and enticing incentives for team expansion. Mitchell also discusses the importance of investing in product knowledge, sales training, and personal growth to turn salespeople into mini-business owners, building loyalty within the team. He highlights efficient sales team operations through effective recruiting, onboarding, and training systems. However, the real game-changer, according to Mitchell, is culture. Understand how a positive company culture naturally emerges when compensation, opportunity, development, and operations align. But it doesn't stop there—Mitchell emphasizes intentional efforts, from team nights to gamification, to foster a strong and vibrant culture. By focusing on compensation, opportunity, development, operations, and culture, your business can lay a robust foundation for your sales teams. Key Takeaways: What it means to scale through documentation Why sales scripts are important Why he recommends giving old leads to new employees The value of company culture Favorite Quote: “Documentation is the key, right? It's not sexy; it's boring. But it's what builds businesses.”   Connect with Doug: Website: https://salesprogrambuilder.com/  LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/txbizdad/   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.

Hungry for more than just a burger joint? Matt and Luigi dish out the deets on non-food franchises in the latest episode of The Liquid Lunch Project. Joined by Jon Ostenson (the “King” of non-food franchises), they explore why small business owners, entrepreneurs, and investors are flocking to the non-food side of the franchise menu.    Key Takeaways:  Discover how the $600 billion home and property services market is heating up post-COVID and serving golden opportunities for savvy investors. Learn why non-food franchises offer a shortcut to success with established business models, giving you a head start on the road to profitability from day one. Explore non-food franchises in industries like automotive, health, and fitness. Jon shares how to kickstart your non-food franchise journey, including the insider tip of working with a consultant (for free!) to navigate the vast franchise landscape.   Ready to flip the script? Hit play now and dive into the world of non-food franchises with The Liquid Lunch Project. Your business journey is about to get a whole lot tastier.    Favorite Quote: "Franchising represents about $800 billion annually within the U.S. economy, and so it's a big player; there's a desire to scratch that entrepreneurial itch.”     Connect with John: https://franbridgeconsulting.com/ https://www.linkedin.com/in/jonostenson/   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.

We cannot think of a better episode to kick off a brand new year than this conversation with Mark Evans. Today, we're talking about masterminds and their impact on supporting small businesses.  Mark defines a mastermind as a powerhouse of great minds collectively striving for excellence. Imagine a space where challenges and opportunities are explored without judgment—a haven for small business owners seeking growth. Key Takeaways: Collective Wisdom: Discover how mastermind groups offer small business owners a treasure trove of insights and solutions. Learn from others who've conquered similar challenges, gaining access to a reservoir of collective knowledge. Accountability Ignites Progress: Mark sheds light on how regular mastermind meetings can steer entrepreneurs away from the daily grind, ensuring strategic planning and personal growth take center stage. Smart Work vs. Hard Work: Mark challenges the traditional belief that working harder guarantees success. Explore the benefits of working smarter and investing in personal development. From reading to mentorship, discover the keys to sustainable growth. Community to Combat Loneliness: The entrepreneurial journey can be isolating. Mark addresses the loneliness small business owners often face and reveals how a mastermind group becomes a tight-knit community. This camaraderie not only boosts morale but propels productivity and success.   Why Should You Listen?  If you're a small business owner yearning for growth in 2024, this episode is your game-changer. Mark's insights, peppered with real-world examples, provide a roadmap to navigate challenges, expand networks, and achieve unparalleled success. Don't miss this opportunity to unlock the potential of your business through the power of mastermind groups.  Favorite Quote: As you evolve..as you become aware that there's a better life or a different life, and you don't acknowledge it? Dude, you're gonna live miserably if you don't execute. Connect with Mark: Website: www.markevansdm.com Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/markevansdm/ Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/markevansdm/  Youtube: https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCjeGp6NMmh9Mgraa4WCtXDA     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.    

"Does geopolitics thousands of miles away really affect my small business here in the United States?" In short - yes.  On the show today is Amir Goren, an investor who can translate the macro trends happening all over the world (China, Taiwan, Ukraine, Gaza, etc.) into micro-investment advice. (Trust us; he knows his stuff. Just ask his degrees from UC Irvine, Harvard, MIT, and Tel Aviv.) Our conversation with Amir covers world events, the upcoming election, oil prices, the future of EVs, gold, the likelihood of another recession, and economic predictions for 2024. It's a good reminder that - as easy as it is to focus on our immediate community/town/state/region - what's happening in the world around us can significantly impact how we do business. And this episode is a great place to start.   Key Takeaways: How geopolitical tensions impact oil prices Taiwan’s importance in semiconductor production - and what that means for us Opportunities during a recession for investment How population decline affects economic growth Will AI be the miracle humanity needs? Favorite Quote: “It's very possible that there's going to be an opportunity to pick up things on the cheap during 2024 and benefit from that during 2025.”   Connect with Amir: Website: https://www.economicdefensefund.com   Linkedin:  https://www.linkedin.com/company/economic-defense-fund/ Youtube:  https://www.youtube.com/@economicdefense  Substack: https://econdef.substack.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.

Startups might have big dreams and big goals…but they don’t always have a big budget. Joining us on the show this week to address this problem is Anne Laffin, CEO and founder of Fin Marketing.    Anne shares her insights on how early-stage companies can overcome the hurdle of raising awareness with limited resources. Laffin emphasizes the importance of organic strategies such as websites, social media, email marketing, and word of mouth to spread the word about a startup's existence. The conversation also touches on the common problem of mixed messaging and disorganization that primarily stems from first-time founders not used to being CEOs or running companies.   Whether you need help making a dollar stretch further, curating an authentic message for your audience, or perfecting your email marketing strategy, Anne delivers some super-helpful tips you can start today.  Episode Highlights: The biggest challenges startups face How to set realistic user acquisition goals The importance of credibility Why email marketing remains king Organic growth vs. paid social media ads Why you shouldn’t underestimate communicating with your audience Favorite Quote: “Being credible is always a thing and will never go out of fashion.” Connect with Anne: Website: https://www.finmarketingm.com/  Linkedin: https://www.linkedin.com/in/alaffin/ Email: anne@finmarketkingm.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.