

Main Street Business
Mark J Kohler and Mat Sorensen
The Main Street Business Podcast, hosted by attorneys Mat Sorensen and Mark J. Kohler, is the go-to resource for entrepreneurs, investors, and business owners who want to build, protect, and manage their wealth. Each episode explores real-world scenarios and offers practical advice on business structuring, tax planning, side hustles, real estate, self-directed retirement accounts, and more.With decades of combined legal and tax experience Mark and Mat make complex financial topics understandable through charismatic discussions and practical education. Their goal is to empower listeners to make smarter legal and financial decisions by turning advanced concepts into clear, actionable strategies for LLCs, corporations, estate planning, tax reduction, raising capital, asset protection, and retirement planning. Mark J. Kohler is a CPA, attorney, best-selling author of six books, and a nationally recognized authority on small business tax and legal strategies. Mark serves as a Senior Partner at KKOS Lawyers and Board Member at Directed IRA Trust Company, which manages over $3 billion in assets. As the founder of the Main Street Certified Tax Advisor Program, Mark has trained thousands of CPAs and Enrolled Agents nationwide, helping millions of small business owners better navigate tax and legal strategies. Mark also co-hosts The Main Street Business Podcast along with Mat Sorensen.Mat Sorensen is an attorney, best-selling author of The Self-Directed IRA Handbook, and CEO of Directed IRA & Directed Trust Company, a leading self-directed IRA custodian with nearly $3 billion under administration. He is a national expert on self-directed retirement strategies and a Senior Partner at KKOS Lawyers. Mat also co-hosts The Main Street Business Podcast along with Mark J. Kohler.
Episodes
Mentioned books

Nov 21, 2025 • 24min
#602 How to Write Off a Holiday Party for Your Business
Are you missing out on one of the easiest 100 percent deductions available to business owners? In this episode of the Main Street Business Podcast, Mark J. Kohler and Mat Sorensen break down exactly how to structure a holiday party or company event so it becomes a fully deductible business expense. From the IRS rules under Section 274 to real examples of what qualifies, you’ll learn how to turn food, entertainment, awards, and even venue costs into a legitimate write-off.Unlike generic tax tips online, this discussion dives into real-world application for small business owners — whether you have a growing team, a handful of employees, or a small staff running from your home office. Mark and Mat explain the three requirements every event must meet, the difference between 50 percent and 100 percent deductions, why culture and team-building matter for tax purposes, and the exact documentation you need to protect the deduction. They also walk through case law, common mistakes, and creative strategies like using the Augusta rule when hosting at your home.Whether you’re planning a Christmas party, a summer barbecue, a team-building event, or an employee appreciation night, this episode will help you use the tax code to your advantage while still creating an event your team will love. By the end, you’ll know how to design an effective, compliant, and fully deductible company party that strengthens your culture and saves you money. If you’re serious about maximizing deductions, staying compliant, and building a stronger business, this is an episode you can’t afford to skip.You’ll learn:How to structure a company holiday party or event so it qualifies for a full 100 percent tax deductionThe three IRS requirements under Section 274 that determine whether meals and entertainment are fully deductibleWhy team-building, culture, and employee morale play a direct role in the deductibility of company eventsThe key differences between 50 percent and 100 percent deductions — and how to avoid getting stuck with the wrong oneReal examples of deductible events, including award lunches, themed parties, off-site gatherings, and interactive team activitiesHow to document business purpose properly and protect your deduction if the IRS ever asks for proofCreative strategies like using the Augusta rule when hosting at your home to increase deductions legallyCommon mistakes business owners make when planning events — and how to avoid losing the write-offWhen client-facing events qualify (and when they don’t) based on employee participation thresholdsHow to maximize tax benefits while still creating a memorable, effective event your tea Grab my eBook 30 Unique Strategies Every Business Owner Should Know! You don't want to miss this! Secure your tickets for the #1 Event For Small Business Owners On Main Street America: Main Street 360 Looking to connect with a rock star law firm? KKOS is only a click away! Are you ready to get certified in EVERY strategy I teach? Start your journey with a FREE 15-minute discovery call to explore the Main Street Tax Pro Certification. Check out our YOUTUBE Channel Here: https://www.youtube.com/markjkohler Craving more content? Check out my Instagram!

18 snips
Nov 19, 2025 • 31min
#601 Top 20 Year-End Tax Strategies Everyone Should Know!
Discover powerful year-end tax strategies perfect for entrepreneurs! From retroactive S-corp elections to maximizing HSAs, learn how to save thousands. Find out how to handle startup expenses, maximize retirement contributions, and utilize 100% bonus depreciation for equipment. The hosts break down smart income timing, charitable contributions, and tax-loss harvesting. Plus, leverage the self-rental rule for properties and pay family members to reduce your tax burden. Wrap up the year with savvy financial moves and prepare for a prosperous new one!

Nov 14, 2025 • 39min
#600 Protecting Your Business in Divorce - Asset Protection When a Marriage Ends
conversation with bestselling author and negotiation expert Rebecca Zung and attorney Mark J. Kohler. We break down what to do first, what to avoid, and how to protect your future — without playing dirty.You’ll learn the five main areas courts consider in family law cases—property division, spousal support, custody and parenting decisions, child support, and attorney’s fees—and how each one affects the next. We cover business valuation timing, enterprise vs. personal goodwill, forensic accounting, lifestyle analysis, and “sudden income deficiency syndrome.” Plus, Rebecca explains her SLAY framework (Strategy, Leverage, Anticipate, You) for negotiating with narcissists and staying out of emotional sabotage.If this helped, subscribe for weekly legal and tax strategy insights, drop your questions in the comments, and share with a friend who needs it.You’ll learn:How to prepare financially before filing for divorce — and the first critical steps to protect your assets and credibilityThe five main areas every family law case covers: property division, spousal support, custody and parenting decisions, child support, and attorney’s feesHow and when to value a business during divorce, including the difference between enterprise and personal goodwillWhy forensic accounting, lifestyle analysis, and “sudden income deficiency syndrome” can make or break your caseSmart strategies for both the moneyed and non-moneyed spouse to stay financially stable during proceedingsHow Rebecca Zung’s SLAY framework (Strategy, Leverage, Anticipate, You) helps you negotiate with a narcissist and avoid emotional trapsGet a comprehensive tax consultation with one of our Main Street tax lawyers that can build a tax strategy plan with an affordable consultation that will leave you speechless!! Here’s the link - https://kkoslawyers.com/services/comprehensive-bus-tax-consult/?utm_source=buzzsprout&utm_medium=description-link&utm_campaign=main-street-business-podcast&utm_content=msbp600-rebecca-zung-interview Grab my eBook 30 Unique Strategies Every Business Owner Should Know! You don't want to miss this! Secure your tickets for the #1 Event For Small Business Owners On Main Street America: Main Street 360 Looking to connect with a rock star law firm? KKOS is only a click away! Are you ready to get certified in EVERY strategy I teach? Start your journey with a FREE 15-minute discovery call to explore the Main Street Tax Pro Certification. Check out our YOUTUBE Channel Here: https://www.youtube.com/markjkohler Craving more content? Check out my Instagram!

Nov 6, 2025 • 50min
#599 Top 10 Due Diligence List: How Smart Investors Protect Their Money
Recorded live, the hosts dive into essential due diligence tips for investors. They emphasize the importance of understanding investments and demanding documentation to avoid scams. Legal pitfalls with commissions and the value of securing notes are discussed. Real horror stories highlight the dangers of pressure tactics. Strategies like using CRUTs for crypto gains and maximizing Solo 401(k) options provide critical insights. The key takeaway? Learning to say "no" can be your best investment strategy.

10 snips
Oct 24, 2025 • 26min
#598 Hold Your Family Board Meeting by Year-End!
Discover the transformative power of holding a Family Board Meeting before year-end! Dive into key strategies for compliance, asset protection, and financial education for your family. Learn how to document minutes to safeguard against audits and lawsuits, while maximizing tax deductions on meeting expenses. Explore ways to engage your spouse and kids in the business, fostering unity and teaching them valuable wealth principles. This meeting isn’t just about business; it’s about creating a legacy and ensuring continuity for future generations.

Oct 17, 2025 • 40min
#597 Smart Strategies to Pay Yourself and Save Thousands
Are you structuring your business the right way — or making costly mistakes that could be draining your profits? In this episode of the Main Street Business Podcast, Mat Sorensen and Mark J. Kohler team up to answer your questions on taxes, legal structures, and real-world strategies for small business success. Together, they uncover the truth about LLCs, S-Corps, and the $50K rule that determines when to make the switch.From transferring real estate into an LLC safely to understanding what truly qualifies as business income, this discussion covers the practical steps every entrepreneur should take to protect their assets, reduce taxes, and stay compliant. You’ll also learn how to pay yourself properly, avoid due-on-sale issues, and maximize wealth through smart entity planning.If you’re serious about building your business the right way and keeping more of what you earn, this is an episode you can’t afford to miss!You’ll learn:How to decide when it’s time to convert your LLC to an S-Corp — and how the $50K rule really worksHow to transfer real estate into an LLC without triggering the due-on-sale clause or losing financing optionsThe difference between true business income and passive income (like royalties, rentals, and trading profits)How to pay yourself correctly as a business owner — and avoid IRS red flags with payroll, draws, and distributionsSimple bookkeeping and payroll strategies to stay compliant and ready for tax seasonHow to use smart entity structuring to protect your assets and save thousands in self-employment taxesPractical tips for maximizing retirement contributions through Solo 401(k)s and Mega Backdoor Roth strategiesGet a comprehensive tax consultation with one of our Main Street tax lawyers that can build a tax strategy plan with an affordable consultation that will leave you speechless!! Here’s the link - https://kkoslawyers.com/services/comprehensive-bus-tax-consult/?utm_source=buzzsprout&utm_medium=description-link&utm_content=msbp597-smart-strategies-to-pay-yourself&utm_campaign=main-street-business-podcast Grab my eBook 30 Unique Strategies Every Business Owner Should Know! You don't want to miss this! Secure your tickets for the #1 Event For Small Business Owners On Main Street America: Main Street 360 Looking to connect with a rock star law firm? KKOS is only a click away! Are you ready to get certified in EVERY strategy I teach? Start your journey with a FREE 15-minute discovery call to explore the Main Street Tax Pro Certification. Check out our YOUTUBE Channel Here: https://www.youtube.com/markjkohler Craving more content? Check out my Instagram!

9 snips
Oct 10, 2025 • 30min
#596 How to Set Up, Maintain, and Maximize Your Solo 401(k)
Discover the secrets to setting up and maximizing your Solo 401(k) as the hosts dive into eligibility rules, contribution strategies, and investment options. Learn how hiring family members can enhance savings and explore the benefits of self-directed investing in real estate or crypto. Find out about Roth and traditional buckets, plus the savvy ways to roll over existing retirement funds. They also demystify ongoing compliance and share a limited-time special offer to help you get started on your retirement journey.

Oct 6, 2025 • 23min
#595 Benefits of a Solo 401(k) and How to Qualify
Take control of your retirement with a Solo 401(k): https://kkoslawyers.com/services/solo-401k-set-up/?utm_source=buzzsprout&utm_medium=description-link&utm_content=solo-401k-p1-benefits&utm_campaign=main-street-business-podcastAre you overlooking one of the most powerful retirement strategies available to entrepreneurs and small business owners? In this episode of the Main Street Business Podcast, Mark J. Kohler and Mat Sorensen take a deep dive into the Solo 401(k) — explaining exactly what it is, who qualifies, and how it can dramatically improve your retirement savings and tax strategy. If you’re self-employed, a freelancer, or running a small business, this plan could be a game-changer for your financial future.Unlike traditional retirement accounts, the Solo 401(k) comes with higher contribution limits, flexible investment options, and unique tax advantages that put you in control. Mark and Mat walk you through how the plan works, the rules you need to know, and why so many entrepreneurs are using it to invest not only in the stock market, but also in real estate, private companies, and alternative assets. They’ll also cover common misconceptions, key mistakes to avoid, and practical strategies to maximize the benefits of this plan.Whether you’re just getting started with retirement planning or looking for ways to reduce your tax burden while growing wealth, this episode breaks it all down in plain, actionable steps. By the end, you’ll understand why the Solo 401(k) stands out compared to SEP IRAs and other options — and how to know if you qualify. If you’re serious about building wealth, saving taxes, and gaining more control over your financial future, this is an episode you can’t afford to miss!You’ll learn:How a Solo 401(k) lets you save for retirement using any small business or side hustle income — even alongside a day job 401(k) or IRAThe major tax and contribution advantages that make Solo 401(k)s one of the most flexible retirement plans for entrepreneursHow to borrow from your Solo 401(k) and pay yourself back with tax-free interestWhy Solo 401(k)s offer strong asset protection and rollover options from old retirement accountsThe power of self-directing your Solo 401(k) into real estate, small businesses, and other alternative investmentsGet a comprehensive tax consultation with one of our Main Street tax lawyers that can build a tax strategy plan with an affordable consultation that will leave you speechless!! Here’s the link - https://kkoslawyers.com/services/comprehensive-bus-tax-consult/?utm_source=buzzsprout&utm_medium=description&utm_content=595-solo-401k-p1-benefits&utm_campaign=main-street-business-podcast Grab my eBook 30 Unique Strategies Every Business Owner Should Know! You don't want to miss this! Secure your tickets for the #1 Event For Small Business Owners On Main Street America: Main Street 360 Looking to connect with a rock star law firm? KKOS is only a click away! Are you ready to get certified in EVERY strategy I teach? Start your journey with a FREE 15-minute discovery call to explore the Main Street Tax Pro Certification. Check out our YOUTUBE Channel Here: https://www.youtube.com/markjkohler Craving more content? Check out my Instagram!

Oct 1, 2025 • 41min
#594 Donald Miller on Why Your Brand Message Is Costing You Sales
Mat sat down with Donald Miller to break down how the StoryBrand framework and airplane model can transform small business growth. In this episode of the Main Street Business Podcast, we dive into marketing, sales, and clarity in messaging so entrepreneurs can scale with confidence. Grab my eBook 30 Unique Strategies Every Business Owner Should Know! You don't want to miss this! Secure your tickets for the #1 Event For Small Business Owners On Main Street America: Main Street 360 Looking to connect with a rock star law firm? KKOS is only a click away! Are you ready to get certified in EVERY strategy I teach? Start your journey with a FREE 15-minute discovery call to explore the Main Street Tax Pro Certification. Check out our YOUTUBE Channel Here: https://www.youtube.com/markjkohler Craving more content? Check out my Instagram!

Sep 19, 2025 • 22min
#593 Open Forum: Lessons on Money, Taxes, and Wealth
Are you making money decisions that could be holding you back from real financial freedom? In this episode of the Main Street Business Podcast, Mark J. Kohler flies solo to answer your questions! In the process, he reveals the common mistakes people make with money, taxes, and investments — and how you can avoid them. He shares proven strategies to help you protect your wealth, build long-term security, and take control of your financial future.From managing taxes to creating passive income, this discussion breaks down the essential steps every entrepreneur, investor, and professional should know. Learn how to maximize deductions, grow your wealth, and safeguard your assets without falling into costly traps.If you’re serious about building wealth and creating lasting financial stability, this is an episode you can’t afford to miss!You’ll learn:How transferring a property to an LLC works, the risks of triggering the due-on-sale clause, and what to watch out for with your lenderThe difference between Schedule E and Schedule C when reporting short-term rental income — and how mixed personal use can change your tax treatmentKey rules for deducting business mileage when operating across multiple locations, and how to maximize your write-offsWhat expenses you can (and can’t) cover in a Roth IRA LLC, including laptops, mining rigs, and other gear for crypto-related activitiesWhy documenting your strategies correctly is essential to avoid IRS issues and maintain tax efficiencyPractical, real-world answers to common tax and wealth-building questions that apply to both investors and small-business ownersGet a comprehensive tax consultation with one of our Main Street tax lawyers that can build a tax strategy plan with an affordable consultation that will leave you speechless!! Here’s the link - https://kkoslawyers.com/services/comprehensive-bus-tax-consult/?utm_source=buzzsprout&utm_medium=description&utm_campaign=msbp004-open-forum-lessons-on-wealth Grab my eBook 30 Unique Strategies Every Business Owner Should Know! You don't want to miss this! Secure your tickets for the #1 Event For Small Business Owners On Main Street America: Main Street 360 Looking to connect with a rock star law firm? KKOS is only a click away! Are you ready to get certified in EVERY strategy I teach? Start your journey with a FREE 15-minute discovery call to explore the Main Street Tax Pro Certification. Check out our YOUTUBE Channel Here: https://www.youtube.com/markjkohler Craving more content? Check out my Instagram!


