Empowering Entrepreneurs

Transitioning from Israel to the US, Dani Beit-Or found an abundance of opportunities. Sometimes, the biggest changes bring the most rewarding experiences. Your environment can shape your journey—find where you thrive.We bring you an inspiring and wisdom-packed episode featuring the remarkable Dani Beit-Or, a real estate entrepreneur with a wealth of experience and insight to share.This episode is brought to you by PureTax, LLC. Tax preparation services without the pressure. When all you need is to get your tax return done, take the stress out of tax season by working with a firm that has simplified the process and the pricing. Find out more about how we started.What’s Inside This Episode?Building Relationships That LastDani Beit-Or brings to light an unexpected perk of the real estate business—forming long-term relationships with clients. These connections often lead to future property purchases, sometimes even without actively soliciting them. Dani emphasizes the value of prioritizing existing clients for investment opportunities over new contacts, reinforcing the importance of nurturing lasting professional relationships.Mentoring and Giving BackDani shares his current passion for mentoring others in the business world. Drawing from his extensive experience, he finds joy in guiding entrepreneurs and helping them navigate their paths to success. This episode delves into Dani’s journey from an engineer to a mentor and real estate financial planner.The Real Estate Dream DealsWhen Glenn Harper asks about Dani's dream deals, the discussion shifts to the requests Dani receives from non-clients for deal alerts. Tune in to hear how he handles these inquiries and his perspective on seizing the right opportunities.From Military Service to Real Estate SuccessDani’s unique background includes graduating early from high school in DC, serving in a special forces unit of the military, and ultimately deciding to leave the service to find new opportunities. His journey continued back in Israel, where he began investing in U.S. real estate from afar. Today, Dani helps investors succeed through Simply Do It Real Estate Investments.A Journey of Resilience and VisionDani and his wife moved from Israel to California with a few thousand dollars and a dream. They faced challenges but turned every obstacle into an opportunity, illustrating the abundance of chances available in the U.S. compared to their previous circumstances.Skills, Integrity, and PassionA hallmark of Dani’s approach is his commitment to integrity and keeping his word, even years after property purchases. He discusses the unexpected appreciation he receives from clients for his integrity. This episode will inspire you to understand the profound impact of values in business.Running a business doesn’t have to run your life.Without a business partner who holds you accountable, it’s easy to be so busy ‘doing’ business that you don’t have the right strategy to grow your business.Stop letting your business run you. At Harper & Co CPA Plus, we know that you want to be empowered to build the lifestyle you envision. In order to do that you need a clear path to follow for successOur clients enjoy a proactive partnership with us. Schedule a consultation with us today.Download our free guide - Entrepreneurial Success Formula: How to Avoid Managing Your Business From Your Bank Account.Glenn Harper, CPA, is the Owner and Managing Partner of Harper & Company CPAs Plus, a top 10 Managing Partner in the country (Accounting Today's 2022 MP Elite). His firm won the 2021 Luca Award for Firm of the Year. An entrepreneur and speaker, Glenn transformed his firm into an advisory-focused practice, doubling revenue and profit in two years. He teaches entrepreneurs to build financial and operational excellence, speaks nationwide to CPA firm owners about running their businesses like entrepreneurs, and consults with firms across the country. Glenn enjoys golfing, fishing, hiking, cooking, and spending time with his family.Julie Smith, MBA, is a serial entrepreneur in the public accounting space. She is the Founder of EmpowerCPA™, Founder of PureTax, LLC, COO for Harper & Company CPAs Plus, and Co-host of the Empowering Entrepreneurs podcast. Named CPA.com's 2021 Innovative Practitioner of Year, Julie led Harper & Company's transition to an advisory-focused firm, doubling revenue and profit in two years. She now empowers other CPA firm owners nationwide through consulting and speaking, teaching them how to run their businesses like entrepreneurs. Julie lives in Columbus, OH with her family and enjoys travel, coaching basketball, sporting events, and the occasional shopping spree.Copyright 2025 Glenn Harper https://creativecommons.org/licenses/by-nd/4.0/

We have an engaging conversation with Kyle Morris, the entrepreneurial force behind The Golf Room and The Golf Room Everywhere. His journey from a professional golfer to a mentor and business owner is nothing short of inspiring, and we're thrilled to share some of his insights with you.From Golf Pro to Entrepreneur ExtraordinaireKyle Morris has taken the fundamental lessons of golf—patience, practice, and perseverance—and applied them to his thriving business ventures. After spending years on professional golf tours across 20 countries, Kyle realized his passion was not only in playing the sport but in teaching it. This revelation became the catalyst for building The Golf Room, a premier golf instruction facility in Dublin, Ohio.Building a Business Beyond the TeeWhat stands out in Kyle’s journey is his ability to pivot and innovate. His decision to leverage technology led to the creation of The Golf Room Everywhere, an online platform that offers virtual golf lessons globally. By marrying his love for golf with entrepreneurial acumen, Kyle has expanded his reach far beyond the physical confines of his local facility. As he puts it, “Just launch it, and figure it out.”PureTax, LLC Key Takeaways for Entrepreneurs:Embrace Imperfection: Don’t wait for your idea to be perfect before launching. Take Kyle’s advice—start when you’re 70-80% ready and refine as you go.Teamwork Makes the Dream Work: Success is often a team effort. Kyle’s experience with mentorship and collaboration underscores the importance of surrounding yourself with trusted advisors.Vision and Purpose: Whether on the greens or in the boardroom, having a clear vision and a purpose-driven approach can be the defining factors of success.Learning from Failure: Kyle epitomizes the concept of “failing forward.” Each setback is a learning opportunity, driving you closer to your goals.Kyle’s story is a testament to how passion, combined with a proactive mindset, can translate into entrepreneurial success. Whether you're a golf enthusiast or an aspiring entrepreneur, his journey offers valuable lessons on perseverance and innovation.We hope you find Kyle's insights as motivating as we did. Empowering Moments00:00 Entrepreneurial Journey Insights Podcast04:14 Augusta Visit Regret and Resolve08:04 Entrepreneurial Journey to Golf Success11:07 Action Over Talk: Just Do It13:33 Entrepreneurial Teaching Motivates Growth17:45 Personal Growth: Balance Encouragement and Reality21:34 Embracing Risk in Entrepreneurship24:12 "Prioritizing Trust Over Performance"25:46 Evolving Team and Time Management29:29 Innate Responsibility Discussion34:07 Why Opening Florida Facility Fails35:55 Passionate Commitment in Entrepreneurship40:21 Team Dynamics: Influence vs. Autonomy44:14 No Regrets in Life47:22 Golf Tips and Podcast InfoRunning a business doesn’t have to run your life.Without a business partner who holds you accountable, it’s easy to be so busy ‘doing’ business that you don’t have the right strategy to grow your business.Stop letting your business run you. At Harper & Co CPA Plus, we know that you want to be empowered to build the lifestyle you envision. In order to do that you need a clear path to follow for successOur clients enjoy a proactive partnership with us. Schedule a consultation with us today.Download our free guide - Entrepreneurial Success Formula: How to Avoid Managing Your Business From Your Bank Account.Glenn Harper, CPA, is the Owner and Managing Partner of Harper & Company CPAs Plus, a top 10 Managing Partner in the country (Accounting Today's 2022 MP Elite). His firm won the 2021 Luca Award for Firm of the Year. An entrepreneur and speaker, Glenn transformed his firm into an advisory-focused practice, doubling revenue and profit in two years. He teaches entrepreneurs to build financial and operational excellence, speaks nationwide to CPA firm owners about running their businesses like entrepreneurs, and consults with firms across the country. Glenn enjoys golfing, fishing, hiking, cooking, and spending time with his family.Julie Smith, MBA, is a serial entrepreneur in the public accounting space. She is the Founder of EmpowerCPA™, Founder of PureTax, LLC, COO for Harper & Company CPAs Plus, and Co-host of the Empowering Entrepreneurs podcast. Named CPA.com's 2021 Innovative Practitioner of Year, Julie led Harper & Company's transition to an advisory-focused firm, doubling revenue and profit in two years. She now empowers other CPA firm owners nationwide through consulting and speaking, teaching them how to run their businesses like entrepreneurs. Julie lives in Columbus, OH with her family and enjoys travel, coaching basketball, sporting events, and the occasional shopping spree.Copyright 2025 Glenn Harper https://creativecommons.org/licenses/by-nd/4.0/

Have you ever wondered what it takes to make the leap from a conventional career to a fulfilling entrepreneurial journey? Glenn Harper and Julie Smith sit down with Matt Ruttenberg, co-owner of Business Development of Life Inc. Retirement Services, to unravel his path from Ohio to Hawaii. You'll hear about his transition from the traditional financial services industry to creating meaningful retirement solutions for clients. Discover how Matt managed to blend his passion for helping others with his entrepreneurial spirit to build a flourishing business. This is an inspiring conversation filled with actionable insights and dynamic twists that could alter the way you think about your entrepreneurial journey. The end might just stop you in your tracks.Top Empowering TakeawaysEntrepreneurial Journey: Matt's entrepreneurial journey shows the importance of discovering what truly interests you and pivoting when necessary. He shifted from traditional financial services to providing more specialized retirement plan services.Mentorship and Family Influence: Matt's background in a finance-savvy family and mentorship from his father played a significant role in molding his career path. His father's work ethic and approach influenced Matt's decision to become an entrepreneur.Adaptability and Patience: Matt emphasizes the importance of patience and adaptability. Entrepreneurs need to be prepared to take a long journey, understanding that initial steps might lead to unexpected but valuable opportunities.Collaboration and Team Building: To scale and excel in business, especially in providing specialized services like 401(k) plans, building a knowledgeable and strong team is essential. Matt moved from working independently to partnering with a team to leverage their collective expertise.Client-Centered Approach: The focus on understanding the client's specific needs, whether for tax saving or providing value to employees, is essential in the retirement plan services business. Tailoring plans to meet these specific needs makes a big difference.Geographical Flexibility: Matt transitioned from different locations like Ohio, Florida, and eventually Hawaii, showing that geographical flexibility can play a role in pursuing entrepreneurial dreams and exploring new opportunities.Real Estate Investment: Matt's real estate ventures with his brother and cousin during college highlight the potential of real estate as a secondary business avenue for entrepreneurs.Importance of Networking: Matt's involvement in financial media networks and conferences underscores the importance of networking in fostering professional growth and staying updated with industry trends.Family Support: Having a supportive spouse who understands and encourages the entrepreneurial journey can significantly impact an entrepreneur's success. Matt credits his wife's support as pivotal in his journey.Continuous Learning and Evolution: The concept of continuous improvement and evolution in career and business decisions is vital. Matt's path shows the need to keep learning, adapting, and re-strategizing to find the most fulfilling and successful role.This episode is brought to you by PureTax, LLC. Tax preparation services without the pressure. When all you need is to get your tax return done, take the stress out of tax season by working with a firm that has simplified the process and the pricing. Find out more about how we started.Empowering Moments05:36 Entrepreneurs: Nature or Nurture?08:50 Early Golf Passion Fades12:24 Real Estate Journey and Discovery14:59 Independent Financial Journey in Florida19:13 Journey of Career Pivots20:36 "Finance Media Network and 401k Service"24:32 Challenges in 401(k) Advisory Industry27:31 Entrepreneurs Benefit from Financial Advice32:17 Embrace Change with Professional Guidance32:53 Invest in Professional Advice36:57 Business Expansion from Three Owners40:15 "Connecting Through 1-on-1 Conversations"43:45 Building Generational Wealth MindsetRunning a business doesn’t have to run your life.Without a business partner who holds you accountable, it’s easy to be so busy ‘doing’ business that you don’t have the right strategy to grow your business.Stop letting your business run you. At Harper & Co CPA Plus, we know that you want to be empowered to build the lifestyle you envision. In order to do that you need a clear path to follow for successOur clients enjoy a proactive partnership with us. Schedule a consultation with us today.Download our free guide - Entrepreneurial Success Formula: How to Avoid Managing Your Business From Your Bank Account.Glenn Harper, CPA, is the Owner and Managing Partner of Harper & Company CPAs Plus, a top 10 Managing Partner in the country (Accounting Today's 2022 MP Elite). His firm won the 2021 Luca Award for Firm of the Year. An entrepreneur and speaker, Glenn transformed his firm into an advisory-focused practice, doubling revenue and profit in two years. He teaches entrepreneurs to build financial and operational excellence, speaks nationwide to CPA firm owners about running their businesses like entrepreneurs, and consults with firms across the country. Glenn enjoys golfing, fishing, hiking, cooking, and spending time with his family.Julie Smith, MBA, is a serial entrepreneur in the public accounting space. She is the Founder of EmpowerCPA™, Founder of PureTax, LLC, COO for Harper & Company CPAs Plus, and Co-host of the Empowering Entrepreneurs podcast. Named CPA.com's 2021 Innovative Practitioner of Year, Julie led Harper & Company's transition to an advisory-focused firm, doubling revenue and profit in two years. She now empowers other CPA firm owners nationwide through consulting and speaking, teaching them how to run their businesses like entrepreneurs. Julie lives in Columbus, OH with her family and enjoys travel, coaching basketball, sporting events, and the occasional shopping spree.Copyright 2025 Glenn Harper https://creativecommons.org/licenses/by-nd/4.0/

The Hidden Struggle of Stay-at-Home Moms: "I was giving all of myself to my children, but there was nothing left for me. And my very creative, active brain had no outlet. Right? I had no intellectual stimulation outside of my children, and I suffered, I think, because of that and I think a lot of women, you know, do too." - Ashley JordanJulie Smith and Glenn Harper are joined by the insightful and relatable Ashley Jordan. An attorney, public speaker, journalist, and author of "Unhappy Achiever," Ashley shares her journey from a small rural town in Marengo, Illinois, to becoming a full-time writer and advocate for women's empowerment.Ashley’s story is one of resilience, self-discovery, and relentless pursuit of passion. Raised in a working-class family and inspired by strong female role models like Gloria Steinem, she initially followed a conventional path by attending law school, despite knowing it wasn't her true calling. Her experience as an assistant district attorney revealed the emotional toll it took, prompting her to pivot towards her real passion—storytelling.Ashley discusses her superpower: the ability to connect and inspire through her authentic voice and storytelling. You'll hear about her journey, her book "Unhappy Achiever," and her dedication to mentoring women and aspiring writers. Ashley also opens up about the challenges of balancing creative pursuits with family life, the loneliness she faced, and how writing became her sanctuary.This is a candid and heartfelt conversation that underscores the importance of pursuing a career that feeds your soul and the incredible impact of sharing your story. Whether you're a working mom, an aspiring entrepreneur, or simply looking for inspiration, Ashley Jordan’s journey will resonate and empower you to follow your own path. Empowering Moments04:51 Passion for empowering women through advocacy.07:38 Passion for justice began in early school.10:33 Making family proud dictated educational choices.14:14 Chose law due to outside influences, unhappy.18:15 Innate gift in writing; developed legal skills.21:45 Brenda Quoddy inspired through dedication and passion.25:01 Motherhood led to isolation, sparking creative blogging.29:52 Fitting writing into daily life, inspired by mother.32:44 Pursuing a career eased her profound loneliness.38:36 Loneliness overcome by supportive circle of friends.40:36 Mentoring women to inspire, share, and support.44:32 Show up for your passion and yourself.50:12 Empowering others to pursue fulfilling career paths.51:46 Honoring strong family legacy through uncertain paths.54:54 Storytelling to inspire and serve women purposefully.This episode is brought to you by PureTax, LLC. Tax preparation services without the pressure. When all you need is to get your tax return done, take the stress out of tax season by working with a firm that has simplified the process and the pricing. Find out more about how we started.Empowering TakeawaysEmbrace Your Superpowers: Ashley Jordan underscores the importance of recognizing and leveraging your unique skills, such as storytelling and authenticity, to inspire and create impact.Pursue Passion Over Expectations: Ashley's journey reveals the importance of pursuing careers and endeavors that nourish your soul, even if it means going against external expectations or traditional paths.The Role of Mentors: Having strong mentors like Brenda Quoddy can be pivotal in shaping your career and inspiring you to follow your passions, even in challenging fields.Balancing Family and Career: Successfully balancing family responsibilities with personal goals is possible through dedication, time management, and supportive relationships.Importance of Authenticity: Sharing genuine and personal stories can be both empowering for the storyteller and inspiring for the audience, creating a ripple effect of empowerment.Leveraging Adversity for Growth: Ashley's journey through law school and challenging jobs taught her valuable skills and brought clarity on what she truly wanted to pursue.Writing as a Meditative Practice: Dedicating time to creative pursuits like writing can provide emotional and intellectual fulfillment, serving as a crucial outlet, especially during lonely or challenging times.Support Networks: No large community is necessary; a small network of wise, supportive individuals can provide crucial mentorship and encouragement, helping you reach your true potential.Continual Self-Reinvention: Ashley exemplifies that it's never too late to pivot career paths and that finding joy in what you do, even if it means starting anew, is essential for long-term fulfillment.Small Steps Lead to Big Achievements: The significance of taking small, consistent steps towards your goals is highlighted by Ashley's ability to fit writing into her busy life, illustrating that persistence and time management can lead to success.Ashley Jordan, J.D., is an author and speaker. Ashley has written for The New York Times, The Washington Post, The Guardian, The Huffington Post, Woman’s Day, Teen Vogue, and more. A former attorney, she lives in Milwaukee with her three children. www.MsAshJordan.com www.unhappyachiever.com Instagram: @msashjordan Twitter: @msashjordan Running a business doesn’t have to run your life.Without a business partner who holds you accountable, it’s easy to be so busy ‘doing’ business that you don’t have the right strategy to grow your business.Stop letting your business run you. At Harper & Co CPA Plus, we know that you want to be empowered to build the lifestyle you envision. In order to do that you need a clear path to follow for successOur clients enjoy a proactive partnership with us. Schedule a consultation with us today.Download our free guide - Entrepreneurial Success Formula: How to Avoid Managing Your Business From Your Bank Account.Glenn Harper, CPA, is the Owner and Managing Partner of Harper & Company CPAs Plus, a top 10 Managing Partner in the country (Accounting Today's 2022 MP Elite). His firm won the 2021 Luca Award for Firm of the Year. An entrepreneur and speaker, Glenn transformed his firm into an advisory-focused practice, doubling revenue and profit in two years. He teaches entrepreneurs to build financial and operational excellence, speaks nationwide to CPA firm owners about running their businesses like entrepreneurs, and consults with firms across the country. Glenn enjoys golfing, fishing, hiking, cooking, and spending time with his family.Julie Smith, MBA, is a serial entrepreneur in the public accounting space. She is the Founder of EmpowerCPA™, Founder of PureTax, LLC, COO for Harper & Company CPAs Plus, and Co-host of the Empowering Entrepreneurs podcast. Named CPA.com's 2021 Innovative Practitioner of Year, Julie led Harper & Company's transition to an advisory-focused firm, doubling revenue and profit in two years. She now empowers other CPA firm owners nationwide through consulting and speaking, teaching them how to run their businesses like entrepreneurs. Julie lives in Columbus, OH with her family and enjoys travel, coaching basketball, sporting events, and the occasional shopping spree.Copyright 2025 Glenn Harper https://creativecommons.org/licenses/by-nd/4.0/

The Path to Success: "You just have to be open to all different kinds of experiences and choices that you make, because you don't know how those puzzle pieces come together in the end to paint you a really beautiful picture."Julie Smith and Glenn Harper welcome the multifaceted entrepreneur Kerim Kfuri. From his family's immigrant background to navigating and excelling in various fields, Kfuri shares his extraordinary story of adaptability, cultural exchange, and relentless pursuit of success.Kerim, cohost of the "Supply and Demand Show" on YouTube, founder of Global Crosswalk, and president of the Atlas Network, recounts his versatile career—from early entrepreneurial ventures like selling blueberries and custom shirts to pioneering dot-com initiatives and shifting into regulatory roles at Warner Brothers Records and the SEC. With a background rich in finance, marketing, and international business, Kfuri reveals how he's continued to evolve alongside industry changes and chased his entrepreneurial passion, even picking up multiple languages along the way.Throughout this conversation, Kfuri discusses the importance of human interactions, balancing differences in partnerships, and staying open to unplanned opportunities. With heartfelt reflections on his family's influence, educational pursuits, and unique career paths, Kfuri offers profound insights into the entrepreneurial spirit and the constant drive to make a meaningful impact. Empowering Moments03:35 Entered supply chain via finance and experiences.07:57 Adapting involves learning language, exchanging cultures.09:52 Family business shaped by immigrant experience and work.13:08 Created misterproducer.com: music industry B2B platform.17:13 Ambition to leave a lasting impact.20:40 Entrepreneurial leaders must self-motivate and self-regulate.23:31 Casual encounters deepen human connections in society.27:51 Loved science, realized medicine wasn't right fit.31:49 "Industry shifted, aiming for audience-driven monetization."32:38 IPO flop led to career in business law.36:39 Supply chain management: supplier selection to delivery.40:25 Global supply chain lacks regulatory best practices.44:28 End game: Make impactful contributions towards goals.46:25 Atlasnetwork.com, kareemkafuri.com, supplychainupsanddowns.com.This episode is brought to you by PureTax, LLC. Tax preparation services without the pressure. When all you need is to get your tax return done, take the stress out of tax season by working with a firm that has simplified the process and the pricing. Find out more about how we started.Empowering TakeawaysAdapting and Language Learning: Embrace the necessity of adapting and learning new languages when moving to a new country. This effort not only facilitates communication but also fosters cultural exchange and personal growth.Cultural and Family Influence: Your family's work ethic and cultural background play a significant role in shaping your entrepreneurial mindset. Kerim’s immigrant background and family support were foundational to his development.Early Entrepreneurship: Entrepreneurial spirit can start young. Kerim's experiences selling blueberries and custom shirts as a child laid the groundwork for his future business ventures.Market Adaptation: Entrepreneurship often requires pivoting. The obsolescence of Kerim's dotcom venture due to market changes exemplified his ability to transition and adapt, eventually leading him into finance and business law.Value of Interpersonal Interactions: Everyday human interactions, even those as mundane as conversations in a supermarket, can provide valuable insights and opportunities. We should remain open to unexpected sources of inspiration.Continuous Learning: Lifelong learning and re-skilling are crucial for navigating career shifts and market changes. Kerim’s journey from a dot-com entrepreneur to a supply chain expert underscores the importance of continuous education.Facing Academic Challenges: Leverage diverse academic and professional experiences—even failures. Kerim's withdrawal from an archaeology class and pivoting career paths serve as reminders to be flexible and resilient.Work-Life Balance Support: Having a supportive partner and work-life balance is essential for sustaining entrepreneurial ventures. Kerim’s wife played a crucial role in encouraging him to pursue his passions.Importance of Effective Communication: In entrepreneurship, effective communication is a vital skill that can be a superpower, enabling better negotiations, relationships, and operational clarity.Defining Success and Impact: Focus on making a meaningful impact rather than achieving a definitive endgame. Kerim's drive to make a lasting difference in various arenas is a powerful motivator for ongoing engagement and success.Glenn Harper, CPA, is the Owner and Managing Partner of Harper & Company CPAs Plus, a top 10 Managing Partner in the country (Accounting Today's 2022 MP Elite). His firm won the 2021 Luca Award for Firm of the Year. An entrepreneur and speaker, Glenn transformed his firm into an advisory-focused practice, doubling revenue and profit in two years. He teaches entrepreneurs to build financial and operational excellence, speaks nationwide to CPA firm owners about running their businesses like entrepreneurs, and consults with firms across the country. Glenn enjoys golfing, fishing, hiking, cooking, and spending time with his family.Julie Smith, MBA, is a serial entrepreneur in the public accounting space. She is the Founder of EmpowerCPA™, Founder of PureTax, LLC, COO for Harper & Company CPAs Plus, and Co-host of the Empowering Entrepreneurs podcast. Named CPA.com's 2021 Innovative Practitioner of Year, Julie led Harper & Company's transition to an advisory-focused firm, doubling revenue and profit in two years. She now empowers other CPA firm owners nationwide through consulting and speaking, teaching them how to run their businesses like entrepreneurs. Julie lives in Columbus, OH with her family and enjoys travel, coaching basketball, sporting events, and the occasional shopping spree.Running a business doesn’t have to run your life.Without a business partner who holds you accountable, it’s easy to be so busy ‘doing’ business that you don’t have the right strategy to grow your business.Stop letting your business run you. At Harper & Co CPA Plus, we know that you want to be empowered to build the lifestyle you envision. In order to do that you need a clear path to follow for successOur clients enjoy a proactive partnership with us. Schedule a consultation with us today.Download our free guide - Entrepreneurial Success Formula: How to Avoid Managing Your Business From Your Bank Account.Copyright 2025 Glenn Harper

Entrepreneur Isolation: "There's what people think it (entrepreneurship) looks like, and then there's the brutal reality of what it really is."We talk about the stark realities of entrepreneurship, addressing the often overlooked yet omnipresent challenges faced by solo business trailblazers. Key TakeawaysThe Reality Behind the Glamour: While social media often paints a perfect picture of entrepreneurship, the truth is far from it. Entrepreneurs frequently navigate a lonely and isolated journey before achieving success.Navigating Peaks and Valleys: The entrepreneurial path is filled with highs and lows. It's crucial to find those trusted individuals who support you through both the triumphant peaks and the challenging valleys.Building a Support System: Though ultimately the burden lies on the entrepreneur's shoulders, having a few trusted allies can make a significant difference. A support network offers not just emotional encouragement but can potentially provide shortcuts and insights that make the journey smoother.Feel free to share your thoughts and experiences. We'd love to hear how you navigate the highs and lows of your entrepreneurial journey!Running a business doesn’t have to run your life.Without a business partner who holds you accountable, it’s easy to be so busy ‘doing’ business that you don’t have the right strategy to grow your business.Stop letting your business run you. At Harper & Co CPA Plus, we know that you want to be empowered to build the lifestyle you envision. In order to do that you need a clear path to follow for successOur clients enjoy a proactive partnership with us. Schedule a consultation with us today.Download our free guide - Entrepreneurial Success Formula: How to Avoid Managing Your Business From Your Bank Account.This episode is brought to you by PureTax, LLC. Tax preparation services without the pressure. When all you need is to get your tax return done, take the stress out of tax season by working with a firm that has simplified the process and the pricing. Find out more about how we started.Glenn Harper, CPA, is the Owner and Managing Partner of Harper & Company CPAs Plus, a top 10 Managing Partner in the country (Accounting Today's 2022 MP Elite). His firm won the 2021 Luca Award for Firm of the Year. An entrepreneur and speaker, Glenn transformed his firm into an advisory-focused practice, doubling revenue and profit in two years. He teaches entrepreneurs to build financial and operational excellence, speaks nationwide to CPA firm owners about running their businesses like entrepreneurs, and consults with firms across the country. Glenn enjoys golfing, fishing, hiking, cooking, and spending time with his family.Julie Smith, MBA, is a serial entrepreneur in the public accounting space. She is the Founder of EmpowerCPA™, Founder of PureTax, LLC, COO for Harper & Company CPAs Plus, and Co-host of the Empowering Entrepreneurs podcast. Named CPA.com's 2021 Innovative Practitioner of Year, Julie led Harper & Company's transition to an advisory-focused firm, doubling revenue and profit in two years. She now empowers other CPA firm owners nationwide through consulting and speaking, teaching them how to run their businesses like entrepreneurs. Julie lives in Columbus, OH with her family and enjoys travel, coaching basketball, sporting events, and the occasional shopping spree.Copyright 2025 Glenn Harper

What are some essential steps for leaders to take when developing a strong company culture and ensuring effective team dynamics?We're thrilled to bring you the latest episode of "Empowering Entrepreneurs," where we hear about the inspiring journey of Scott Fleszar, a seasoned leader in the B2B Vertical SaaS sector and a senior adviser for SafeSend.**Choosing the Right Path:**Scott shares his decision-making process for attending Eastern Michigan University, influenced by proximity, affordability, and a strong encouragement from his family.**Global Experience:**Hear about Scott's international assignment in Switzerland with Thomson Reuters and how his family adapted to the new cultural environment. Discover the impacts of this experience on both his career and his family, including his daughter's success in securing a job in investment banking.**Corporate to Start-Up Dynamics:**Scott contrasts his experiences in large corporations versus small companies, emphasizing how he leveraged the structures and strategies from his time at Thomson Reuters to drive growth at SafeSend.**Real-World Job Insights:**Reflecting on his formative job experiences and the importance of practical, real-world jobs over fancy internships, Scott discusses the value of developing people skills and resilience.**Growth Strategies for Businesses:**Scott shares actionable strategies for business growth, including:- Investing in potential and mentorship- Establishing guardrails for controlled risk-taking- Creating a culture of psychological safety- Encouraging continuous improvement**Seeking Purpose-Driven Work:**Scott expresses his desire to transition towards more purpose-driven work, aiming to make a societal impact beyond the tech and accounting realms. He is currently involved with a charitable organization providing meals to those in need.Empowering Moments05:57 Grandmother's influence outweighed parents' roles in life.09:42 Selling flowers at Detroit's Eastern Market.11:44 Teens need real jobs for valuable experience.17:12 College degree or trades; multiple career paths.19:48 MBA pivoted career, leading to diverse roles.21:13 Mega Corp offers more opportunities than small businesses.25:06 Kids thrived through international move and challenges.30:22 Networking led to SafeSend opportunity, joined Q4 2019.31:49 Led company growth; CEO; pivotal career achievement.36:03 Platform improves tax return process for accounting firms.39:23 Invest in and mentor potential leaders for growth.44:16 Building cohesive, ego-less teams through coaching.47:05 Desires purpose-driven work beyond accounting profession.Running a business doesn’t have to run your life.Without a business partner who holds you accountable, it’s easy to be so busy ‘doing’ business that you don’t have the right strategy to grow your business.Stop letting your business run you. At Harper & Co CPA Plus, we know that you want to be empowered to build the lifestyle you envision. In order to do that you need a clear path to follow for successOur clients enjoy a proactive partnership with us. Schedule a consultation with us today.Download our free guide - Entrepreneurial Success Formula: How to Avoid Managing Your Business From Your Bank Account.This episode is brought to you by PureTax, LLC. Tax preparation services without the pressure. When all you need is to get your tax return done, take the stress out of tax season by working with a firm that has simplified the process and the pricing. Find out more about how we started.Glenn Harper, CPA, is the Owner and Managing Partner of Harper & Company CPAs Plus, a top 10 Managing Partner in the country (Accounting Today's 2022 MP Elite). His firm won the 2021 Luca Award for Firm of the Year. An entrepreneur and speaker, Glenn transformed his firm into an advisory-focused practice, doubling revenue and profit in two years. He teaches entrepreneurs to build financial and operational excellence, speaks nationwide to CPA firm owners about running their businesses like entrepreneurs, and consults with firms across the country. Glenn enjoys golfing, fishing, hiking, cooking, and spending time with his family.Julie Smith, MBA, is a serial entrepreneur in the public accounting space. She is the Founder of EmpowerCPA™, Founder of PureTax, LLC, COO for Harper & Company CPAs Plus, and Co-host of the Empowering Entrepreneurs podcast. Named CPA.com's 2021 Innovative Practitioner of Year, Julie led Harper & Company's transition to an advisory-focused firm, doubling revenue and profit in two years. She now empowers other CPA firm owners nationwide through consulting and speaking, teaching them how to run their businesses like entrepreneurs. Julie lives in Columbus, OH with her family and enjoys travel, coaching basketball, sporting events, and the occasional shopping spree.Copyright 2025 Glenn Harper https://creativecommons.org/licenses/by-nd/4.0/

Is scaling up always the best option? Or is refining and improving your existing operations the way forward?Do you wanna be bigger and better? Do you wanna be better and better? How do you wanna spend your time in the new year and really create your intentions around your business?"Key Takeaways:Opportunity CostUnderstand the sacrifices entailed in the pursuit of business growth. Time, family, personal interests—all could be impacted.Control vs. DelegationGiving up control can be daunting, but smart delegation is crucial for scalability.Intentional PlanningRegularly pausing to reflect and plan with intention can help you navigate the path between staying small and growing bigger.It's all about the the delicate balance between getting bigger and being better, and finding out how to make intentional choices that align with your business goals.This episode is brought to you by PureTax, LLC. Tax preparation services without the pressure. When all you need is to get your tax return done, take the stress out of tax season by working with a firm that has simplified the process and the pricing. Find out more about how we started.Running a business doesn’t have to run your life.Without a business partner who holds you accountable, it’s easy to be so busy ‘doing’ business that you don’t have the right strategy to grow your business.Stop letting your business run you. At Harper & Co CPA Plus, we know that you want to be empowered to build the lifestyle you envision. In order to do that you need a clear path to follow for successOur clients enjoy a proactive partnership with us. Schedule a consultation with us today.Download our free guide - Entrepreneurial Success Formula: How to Avoid Managing Your Business From Your Bank Account.Glenn Harper, CPA, is the Owner and Managing Partner of Harper & Company CPAs Plus, a top 10 Managing Partner in the country (Accounting Today's 2022 MP Elite). His firm won the 2021 Luca Award for Firm of the Year. An entrepreneur and speaker, Glenn transformed his firm into an advisory-focused practice, doubling revenue and profit in two years. He teaches entrepreneurs to build financial and operational excellence, speaks nationwide to CPA firm owners about running their businesses like entrepreneurs, and consults with firms across the country. Glenn enjoys golfing, fishing, hiking, cooking, and spending time with his family.Julie Smith, MBA, is a serial entrepreneur in the public accounting space. She is the Founder of EmpowerCPA™, Founder of PureTax, LLC, COO for Harper & Company CPAs Plus, and Co-host of the Empowering Entrepreneurs podcast. Named CPA.com's 2021 Innovative Practitioner of Year, Julie led Harper & Company's transition to an advisory-focused firm, doubling revenue and profit in two years. She now empowers other CPA firm owners nationwide through consulting and speaking, teaching them how to run their businesses like entrepreneurs. Julie lives in Columbus, OH with her family and enjoys travel, coaching basketball, sporting events, and the occasional shopping spree.Copyright 2025 Glenn Harper

The Regrets of a Busy Parent: "I don't even remember giving my son a bath his 1st year of his life." — Leslie Alvarez Glenn Harper and Julie Smith sit down with the remarkable Leslie Alvarez, a powerhouse mompreneur and the president and founder of Community Association Consulting Experts Inc.Glenn and Julie talk with Leslie Alvarez, the president and founder of Community Association Consulting Experts Inc., about her journey of juggling the demanding roles of motherhood and entrepreneurship. Leslie shares candid advice on:The Art of Prioritization: Learn why saying "no" is essential and how valuing personal time can help you become your best self.Overcoming Setbacks: Discover how Leslie faced challenges head-on, recognized the need for self-care, and the importance of cherishing family moments.Managing High Performing Anxiety: Leslie discusses her experience with anxiety and offers valuable insights into slowing down and appreciating life's special moments.Empowering TakeawaysInsight into how she manages her dual roles as a mother and an entrepreneur, stressing the need to prioritize and manage time effectively.The importance of setting boundaries and learning to say no to unnecessary commitments to focus on what truly matters.Hiring team members with strong customer service skills and surrounding herself with a supportive team to balance her task-oriented nature.Empowering Moments05:48 Childhood bookworm, rebuilt Barbie world, future property manager.08:04 Returned to school as an adult at 38.12:38 Proving myself in high-level role with diploma.14:39 Entrepreneurs' journey: degrees not always necessary.16:56 Studied intensely in big chunks, completed efficiently.22:26 Turning point: From pregnant and jobless to author.24:27 Learned to make tamales, supported family during break.33:10 Enforcing rules with legal experience and support.38:57 Learning to say no and prioritize self-care.40:49 Struggle to prioritize and cherish family moments.44:24 Overcoming imposter syndrome in Mexican neighborhood.Running a business doesn’t have to run your life.Without a business partner who holds you accountable, it’s easy to be so busy ‘doing’ business that you don’t have the right strategy to grow your business.Stop letting your business run you. At Harper & Co CPA Plus, we know that you want to be empowered to build the lifestyle you envision. In order to do that you need a clear path to follow for successOur clients enjoy a proactive partnership with us. Schedule a consultation with us today.Download our free guide - Entrepreneurial Success Formula: How to Avoid Managing Your Business From Your Bank Account.PureTax, LLC Copyright 2025 Glenn Harper https://creativecommons.org/licenses/by-nd/4.0/

Setting Intentions: "If you can break it down into 30 day, 60 day, 90 day increments with those intentions of what you're going to do to achieve the said goal, it becomes really attainable."As we approach the end of the year, it's the perfect time for us, as entrepreneurs, to take a moment and reflect on our journey. We talk about setting meaningful intentions for the new year. Key TakeawaysSet Clear Intentions Over Broad Goals: Rather than just having vague goals, define clear intentions and actionable steps to achieve them. It's not about saying "I will work out"; it's about planning when and how you will fit those workouts into your daily routine.Break Down Your Goals: Avoid feeling overwhelmed by breaking down your goals into smaller, manageable increments. Whether it's a 30-day, 60-day, or 90-day plan, having short-term milestones makes long-term objectives more attainable.Accountability is Crucial: Find someone to share your goals with and ask them to hold you accountable. This could be a partner, a colleague, or a friend. Accountability partners help keep you committed and motivated.As we step into the new year, let's take these insights and set ourselves up for a year of success, growth, and meaningful accomplishments. Running a business doesn’t have to run your life.Without a business partner who holds you accountable, it’s easy to be so busy ‘doing’ business that you don’t have the right strategy to grow your business.Stop letting your business run you. At Harper & Co CPA Plus, we know that you want to be empowered to build the lifestyle you envision. In order to do that you need a clear path to follow for successOur clients enjoy a proactive partnership with us. Schedule a consultation with us today.Download our free guide - Entrepreneurial Success Formula: How to Avoid Managing Your Business From Your Bank Account.This episode is brought to you by PureTax, LLC. Tax preparation services without the pressure. When all you need is to get your tax return done, take the stress out of tax season by working with a firm that has simplified the process and the pricing. Find out more about how we started.Glenn Harper, CPA, is the Owner and Managing Partner of Harper & Company CPAs Plus, a top 10 Managing Partner in the country (Accounting Today's 2022 MP Elite). His firm won the 2021 Luca Award for Firm of the Year. An entrepreneur and speaker, Glenn transformed his firm into an advisory-focused practice, doubling revenue and profit in two years. He teaches entrepreneurs to build financial and operational excellence, speaks nationwide to CPA firm owners about running their businesses like entrepreneurs, and consults with firms across the country. Glenn enjoys golfing, fishing, hiking, cooking, and spending time with his family.Julie Smith, MBA, is a serial entrepreneur in the public accounting space. She is the Founder of EmpowerCPA™, Founder of PureTax, LLC, COO for Harper & Company CPAs Plus, and Co-host of the Empowering Entrepreneurs podcast. Named CPA.com's 2021 Innovative Practitioner of Year, Julie led Harper & Company's transition to an advisory-focused firm, doubling revenue and profit in two years. She now empowers other CPA firm owners nationwide through consulting and speaking, teaching them how to run their businesses like entrepreneurs. Julie lives in Columbus, OH with her family and enjoys travel, coaching basketball, sporting events, and the occasional shopping spree.Copyright 2025 Glenn Harper