Empowering Entrepreneurs

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.We "dive" into the world of fishing and entrepreneurship with our special guest, Sena Wheeler, the passionate force behind the family-run business that provides top-quality Copper River salmon to seafood aficionados.Sena not only shares the lore behind the highly sought-after Copper River salmon, known for its rich omega threes, lush red color, and exceptional taste, but she also peels back the curtain on the logistics and timing that make this fish a seasonal spectacle. As these prized salmon make their challenging journey back for spawning, we discuss the bustling activity during the premium weeks of freshness in May alongside the strategic approach of offering high-quality frozen fish to sustain demand throughout the year.In true entrepreneurial spirit, Sena delves into how her background in fish science and nutrition led her down the captivating path of fishing alongside her husband, Rich. They've coupled their expertise in quality control and commitment to maintaining standards to grow a business that not only sells fish but also honors the generational art of fish handling taught by Sena's Norwegian ancestry.We talk about peaks, valleys, and the pivotal role of internet access in scaling their online business. With a clear vision for maintaining manageable growth, Sena remains grounded in efficiency and quality even as she dreams of the future, whether it involves scaling back or taking full advantage of ecotourism opportunities.Be sure to visit Sena Sea for the true taste of the Copper River and subscribe for insider updates. Personal Storytelling in Business: "A big part of what I do is I write these, email newsletters, and they're very very personal, very story based, and it's really about our journey and about us." — Sena WheelerTop Takeaways1. **Quality Through Adversity**: The harsh environment of the Copper River requires salmon to develop high levels of omega-3 fatty acids, making them a premium product due to their fat content and taste.2. **Anticipation Builds Demand**: The seasonality of the Copper River salmon creates excitement and demand, illustrating the value of offering a "first of the season" product in a business model.3. **The Fresh vs. Frozen Debate**: Sena's business highlights that properly frozen fish can maintain quality akin to fresh fish, which becomes an important selling point during off-seasons.4. **Scaling the Business Wisely**: Sena Wheeler advocates for controlled business growth, preferring efficiency to unchecked expansion, illustrating the need for balance in business development.5. **Family Involvement & Legacy**: Sena imbues her passion for the business into the next generation, with her children actively involved in the business and highlighting the intergenerational aspect of entrepreneurship.6. **Seasonal rhythms in Business**: Acknowledging the peaks and valleys of a seasonal business allows for strategic planning and personal time, as exemplified by Sena using slower periods for family activities.7. **Logistics as a Superpower**: Sena Wheeler sees logistics, particularly efficient shipping, and portion control, as critical to the success of her business, emphasizing the importance of operational mastery for entrepreneurs.8. **Educational Background Pivot**: Sena's shift from a focus on nutrition to a master's degree in fish science and eventually starting her own business showcases the adaptability required of entrepreneurs.9. **Technology as a Business Enabler**: Despite initial hurdles with internet access, the importance of technology proved vital in reaching a bigger market and scaling the business effectively.10. **Environmental Responsibility**: The technique of longlining taught through Norwegian ancestry and the emphasis on proper care in processing fish not only ensures product quality but also stresses sustainable fishing practices for entrepreneurs mindful of their environmental impact. Memorable Moments00:00 Entrepreneur links Alaska fisheries and health benefits.05:22 Master's program acceptance due to fishing experience.07:15 Fishing boat in Alaska, trips to Seattle.10:07 Night shift, deck rotation, repetitive motions, full share.15:36 Son-in-law joined family business, now fishes in Alaska.16:41 Practical experience merges with geeked-out science.20:39 Balancing family, online course, and poor internet.24:07 Company considered buying plant.26:16 Dock operation involves catching, cutting, and freezing.35:11 Scaling business without adding extensive resources. Growth plans?36:34 Transition from farmers' markets to online sales.47:21 Logistics are my superpower.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

In this episode of Empowering Entrepreneurs, Glenn Harper and Julie Smith discuss the birth of PureTax, LLC, a company that emerged from the need to serve clients who required simple tax returns. They share their journey of identifying a market need, finding the right talent, and leveraging their experience to create systems and processes that propel their new venture forward. Identifying Ideal Clients: "And I think it really came down to being able to see the need for it and almost feeling bad that you couldn't service them, feeling bad for saying no, but at the same time being so proud that we were able to really identify the ideal client at Harper and Company because I think businesses struggle with that as well." — Julie SmithTop Takeaways1. Recognizing Opportunity: The podcast highlights the importance of recognizing opportunities in the entrepreneurial journey. It encourages entrepreneurs to seize opportunities and tackle new ventures rather than shying away from them.2. Creating Solutions: Entrepreneurs are presented with the idea of identifying problems and creating solutions, such as the case of establishing PureTax to meet the specific needs of clients who require simple tax returns.3. Talent Acquisition: The podcast discusses the challenges entrepreneurs face in building a team and the significance of finding individuals who share the same vision, mission, and core values as the company.4. Embracing Change: It emphasizes the notion that change is constant in the entrepreneurial world and that successful entrepreneurs are those who adapt, pivot, and learn from every situation, whether it leads to success or failure.5. Process Implementation: Entrepreneurial success hinges on the implementation of effective systems and processes. The ability to refine and replicate these systems from previous ventures can expedite the launch and success of new initiatives.6. Client-Centric Approach: Entrepreneurs are encouraged to prioritize creating tailored solutions for their clients, as demonstrated by the establishment of PureTax, which aims to provide accessible and transparent tax services with year-round support.7. Learning from Peaks and Valleys: The podcast emphasizes the importance of learning from both successes and setbacks, embracing the highs and lows of the entrepreneurial journey, and leveraging these experiences for growth.8. Ready, Fire, Aim: Taking calculated risks and making decisions promptly is highlighted as a crucial aspect of entrepreneurship. The podcast advocates for entrepreneurs to pursue their ideas and innovations, acknowledging that setbacks are a natural part of the process.9. Building on Experience: The importance of leveraging previous business experiences to provide a foundation for new ventures is emphasized. The podcast illustrates how knowledge gained from past endeavors can be instrumental in successful new business launches.10. Transparent Branding: The importance of transparent and inclusive branding is underscored, particularly in establishing a clear and approachable identity for newer ventures, as seen in the naming and positioning of PureTax to signify its simplicity and accessibility.PureTax, LLCRunning 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

What motivated our guest to transition from a career in teaching to real estate investing, and what can you learn from his career shift?Welcome back to Empowering Entrepreneurs. In this episode, Julie and Glenn have a truly motivating episode as they're joined by Dan Gomer, an individual whose entrepreneurial journey is as inspiring as it is educational.Dan, a former middle school teacher, took a leap of faith from the classroom to the competitive arena of real estate. He shares the trials and triumphs of his transition, his passion for selling the American dream of home ownership, and the hard lessons learned from his initial foray into property flipping that didn't go as planned. Despite facing significant setbacks and even burnout, Dan's resilience saw him pivot to traditional real estate and ultimately find a balance between production and his true passion: coaching and teaching.Julie and Glenn dive deep into Dan's background, from his days doing manual labor that sparked his creativity, to his efforts to improve father-son relationships with an innovative playground project in Colorado. Dan also touches upon the importance of mentorship, the power of being coachable, and the refreshingly candid perspective that came from losing it all and starting anew.We explore how Dan's formative years influenced his drive to mentor others, his return to the realm of education in a non-traditional capacity, and how writing has become a therapeutic outlet for him, resulting in four published books, which he generously offers to our listeners.Prepare to be empowered as Dan candidly discusses the need to cherish the journey, simplify the process, and enjoy the moment, all while making the world a better place. Top TakeawaysDan's move from being a middle school teacher to becoming a successful real estate investor and coach can inspire listeners to consider career changes that align more closely with their passions and skill sets.The importance of continuous learning, whether through formal education at institutions like the University of North Colorado or through practical experiences and self-directed learning.Dan acknowledges he lacked a direct mentor but benefited greatly from those who provided tools and insights, underscoring mentorship's impact on personal and professional development.The value of having a coach or therapist to help navigate challenges, indicating that even successful entrepreneurs can benefit from professional guidance.The importance of being teachable and hungry for success, which can be crucial traits for anyone looking to grow and succeed in entrepreneurship.Cherishing the journey and not just the end goals serves as a reminder to entrepreneurs to appreciate their growth and achievements along the way.Setbacks can be pivotal learning opportunities that contribute to eventual success.Transitioning from a sole focus on making money to creating a more balanced and sustainable business that aligns with one's values and allows for family time.Explore reflective practices like journaling to align beliefs with actions and to process experiences.Entrepreneurial skills can have a profound impact when applied to teaching and mentoring, potentially leading to broader societal changes.PureTax, LLC Memorable Moments00:00 UNC education led to construction work experience.05:08 From real estate to education with confidence.07:16 Committed to improving education and retaining talented educators.12:46 Married 20 years, now focused on real estate.16:26 Entrepreneurship requires perseverance, risk, and commitment.20:06 Transitioned to team-building, less individual production.23:28 Did anyone mentor you? Balloon guy's impact.26:22 Seeking mentorship, coaching, and therapy for support.29:10 Seeking people open to change and growth.31:55 Simplify and enjoy the journey, learn from struggle.35:20 Mindset is key for business success. Personal growth.38:19 Reflecting on preaching and living up to standards.42:48 Create a playground coaching program to promote generational change.44:33 Enjoy the journey, not just reaching mountain top.Learn more about Dan Gomer on his website.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 https://creativecommons.org/licenses/by-nd/4.0/

Our guest didn’t have a mentor when starting his business. How did he navigate the challenges, and what advice would he give to new entrepreneurs seeking guidance?Welcome to another insightful episode of Empowering Entrepreneurs, with an incredible conversation with Matt Remuzzi from CapForge. Matt shared his inspiring journey from writing business plans to revolutionizing bookkeeping, proving that with persistence, innovation, and a customer-first approach, success is not just a possibility, it's inevitable.His entrepreneurial spirit, rooted in a legacy of business ownership and fueled by an aversion to the constraints of corporate culture, has led to the triumphant rise of CapForge. Matt's advice? Focus on relationships, listen to your clients, and always be coachable. Remember, it's not just about the numbers; it’s about creating value and understanding the story behind them. Entrepreneurial Principles: "I mean, it wasn't that I was against working with other people. And, obviously, you hit a ceiling pretty quick as a one man business. But I didn't wanna have to enforce stupid rules or, You know, do things that I didn't feel like, made a lot of sense." - Matt RemuzziTop TakeawaysMatt Remuzzi's journey highlights the quintessential entrepreneurial drive, beginning from his college days and influenced by his grandfather's business endeavors. Aspiring entrepreneurs are encouraged to draw from his persistence and determination to succeed.Remuzzi's story teaches the importance of adaptability and persistence. Entrepreneurs should be prepared to pivot their business model when necessary and understand that success often requires steadfastness through challenges.Matt's approach to bookkeeping—separating teams for new clients and ongoing clients—illustrates the value of innovative structures within a business to effectively manage workloads and improve client service.Successful entrepreneurship, as evidenced by CapForge's philosophy, hinges on strong customer relationships and a value offering that extends beyond standard services.Focus on hiring individuals with exceptional customer service abilities and personalities that fit the company culture to build a committed and efficient team. Remuzzi believes a respectful work environment and employee appreciation are key to retention.Entrepreneurs like Remuzzi who did not have a mentor emphasize the necessity of continual learning and growth. Mistakes and lessons learned are powerful tools for improving business acumen and operations.Remuzzi regrets not integrating tax services into his business earlier. A comprehensive suite of services can provide added value to clients and enhance business growth.Considering future transitions such as employee stock ownership plans (ESOPs) reflects a commitment to employee empowerment and long-term business sustainability, worthy of consideration for growing businesses.The importance of working with clients who are open and coachable is highlighted, pointing to the necessity of selective client acquisition strategies aimed at long-term engagement and mutual growth.Entrepreneurs must navigate the complexities of scaling a business, including managing employee workloads and transitioning from daily operations to focusing on strategic growth and even planning an exit strategy.Memorable Moments00:00 Entrepreneur Matt Ramuzzi offers accounting expertise.04:27 Entrepreneurship in family, but discouraged by father.06:57 Reluctant to enforce rules, focused on team.11:04 Struggled with different jobs, then became consultant.14:42 Pivoted from writing plans to developing software.19:19 Morphed into psychiatrist role, built rapport, successful.20:13 My experience suits the role and expertise.23:14 Valuing people, setting clear expectations, hiring selectively.26:19 Bookkeeping split into new client and ongoing team.32:00 Regret for neglecting tax, impacting business success.35:09 Delegating is my superpower for success.37:33 Promoted co-CEOs and considering future transitions.39:56 Entrepreneurial journey brings options for future ventures.Matt Remuzzi grew up in a thriving neighborhood peppered with professionals from the movie and film industry near San Fernando Valley and LA proper. The community was small yet affluent, fostering an upper-middle-class lifestyle that provided Matt with a solid foundation and a good education. He later channeled his academic pursuits toward higher learning at the University of California San Diego, where he completed his undergraduate studies. His thirst for knowledge and a drive to innovate propelled him to San Diego State University, where he earned his MBA with a keen focus on entrepreneurship, a pathway that aligned with his ambitions and aspirations for the future.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 https://creativecommons.org/licenses/by-nd/4.0/

How did our guest's experience in Budapest and his involvement in the family's business venture shape his understanding of international business, cultural dynamics, and overcoming obstacles in a foreign market?We've got a special guest on the episode – Eugene Gershman, the big boss at GIS Development and GIS Residential Construction. We're diving into his story, from growing up in Moscow to making moves in the US real estate scene. Get ready to hear about his hands-on approach, his plans for the future, and how his family has shaped his hustle. Tech Startup Dreams: "I've wanted to create some new efficient and computerized, trading and investing platform, and it all sounded great. Yeah. I was thinking like this like a tech startup, here in Seattle."— Eugene Gershman (EG)Key Takeaways1. Family Influence: Eugene's upbringing in an entrepreneurial environment and his father's successful business in Russia significantly influenced his career path and approach to entrepreneurship.2. Adaptability: Eugene's experience of moving to the US, learning English, and assimilating to American culture reflects the importance of adaptability in navigating challenges and pursuing entrepreneurial opportunities in new environments.3. Confidence and Resilience: Overcoming skepticism and stereotypes in the real estate industry, Eugene learned to project confidence and dress professionally to earn respect, highlighting the importance of resilience and self-assuredness in entrepreneurship.4. Hands-On Leadership: Eugene's hands-on approach to project management and decision-making emphasizes the importance of understanding Excel models and actively engaging in the operational aspects of the business.5. Embracing Challenges: As an entrepreneur, Eugene embraces challenges, viewing them as opportunities for growth, problem-solving, and innovation, exemplifying the mindset necessary for navigating business obstacles.6. Learning through Experience: Eugene's journey of learning about technology and computers through trial and error reflects the value of experiential learning and embracing curiosity in entrepreneurship.7. Strategic Partnerships: The focus on strengthening partnerships with property owners and enhancing fundraising capabilities underscores the significance of strategic alliances and financial acumen in real estate development.8. Entrepreneurial Vision: Eugene sees himself as an artist and visionary, emphasizing the importance of passion, creativity, and a team that enjoys challenges in driving entrepreneurial endeavors.9. Persistence and Patience: The challenges faced in Budapest, including obtaining building permits and navigating local politics, demonstrate the need for persistence and patience when overcoming obstacles in international business ventures.10. Succession Planning: The consideration of future exit strategies and the potential evolution of a project-dependent business into an ongoing, saleable enterprise highlights the importance of long-term planning and succession in family businesses.PureTax, LLC Memorable Moments03:30 Learning English, adapting to American culture.09:17 Struggled with English and ended up with economics as a major.11:21 Evening student launches tech startup, Hungary construction branch.14:46 Navigating between English and Russian for staff.20:02 Evaluated property, planned project, partnership, development, architect hired.25:10 Learned about computers naturally through curiosity and experimentation.26:18 Entrepreneurs need a fearless, adaptable mindset.32:06 Family business impact on entrepreneurial tendencies discussed.34:26 Navigating journey, seizing opportunities, considering future options.37:09 Real estate development appeals to various investors.42:44 GIS companies focusing on property development and marketing.Eugene Gershman (EG) is an innovative entrepreneur and business leader. During his MBA studies, he developed a vision for a new type of broker-dealer and investing platform. However, a surprising opportunity arose when his father introduced him to a project in Budapest, Hungary. Eugene seized the chance to set up a branch of his family's construction office in Budapest, embarking on an unexpected and exciting new chapter in his professional 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.Copyright 2025 Glenn Harper https://creativecommons.org/licenses/by-nd/4.0/

What lessons can entrepreneurs learn from our guest's approach to seeking and utilizing mentors and building a network for guidance in both personal and professional aspects?Welcome to another episode of Empowering Entrepreneurs, where we feature dynamic individuals who are revolutionizing their industries. In today's episode, hosts Glenn Harper and Julie Smith sit down with Liz Branch, the innovative COO of Accountingfly and GoingConcern. Liz shares her insights on changing the landscape of the accounting profession and the vital role of communication and teamwork in entrepreneurship. From her experience in building successful remote teams to her passion for helping clients find the right talent, Liz's story is one of empowerment and inspiration. Join us as we dive into Liz's journey, her unique problem-solving approach, and her vision for the future of remote work. It's an episode packed with valuable advice and captivating stories that's not to be missed!Empowering TakeawaysRemote Work Pioneering: Liz Branch and Accountingfly were ahead of the pandemic-driven remote work transition, showcasing the advantages and potential challenges of hiring and managing remote accounting talent.The value of a cohesive team, especially in high-pressure environments like healthcare, and how it's essential for project completion and effective problem-solving.The significance of feedback and open communication for creating a better product or service and the need for transparency within the accounting profession.Entrepreneurs should strive to find a balance or partnership between visionaries who dream big and integrators like Liz Branch who can operationalize those dreams, ensuring the company can pivot and execute effectively.Understanding and utilizing employee strengths is key to assigning roles efficiently within a company, which can lead to better performance and job satisfaction.Overcoming the fear of hiring is crucial for entrepreneurship. Trusting and empowering employees helps businesses grow. It's also important to consider looking outside one's industry for fresh perspectives and advice.Establishing clear processes, expectations, and trust is key for remote teams. This includes implementing technology and contract safeguards to ensure commitment and prevent multi-job situations.Building a diverse network of mentors can provide guidance in various areas of entrepreneurship. Seeking support and advice from those more experienced is invaluable.For entrepreneurs, finding someone who possesses both passion for the vision and operational expertise is essential for achieving rapid success and growth.Empowering Moments05:06 Consultant specializing in finding business communications solutions.09:57 Her marketing degree helps her understand people.10:49 Accountingfly focuses on hiring remote talent.13:51 Finding a facilitator accelerates entrepreneur's success.17:50 Challenges in adapting, different perspectives, slow changes.24:01 Seek feedback from clients to improve services.27:16 Collaboration and delegation in building marketing team.30:54 Discuss, prioritize and clarify expectations for position.31:51 Learning about different firms and hiring processes.37:28 Recruiting team trains for remote tech skills.41:00 Entrepreneur talking about trusting remote employees.42:03 Ensure remote employees feel supported and connected.47:15 Recognizing inefficiencies, helping others without overstepping.48:17 Stay in lane, embrace change, engage positively.PureTax, LLC 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 https://creativecommons.org/licenses/by-nd/4.0/

From owning a franchise to filing for bankruptcy? How did these experiences shape the approach to entrepreneurship?In our latest episode, we had the privilege of interviewing Phil Whitman, a renowned CPA and certified exit planning adviser. Phil has incredible insights and experience in helping CPAs improve leadership and client experience. Here are some Empowering Takeaways from our conversation:1️⃣ Short-term pain for long-term gain: Phil shares the importance of making investments and decisions that may result in short-term financial sacrifices but are necessary for future success. It's about looking beyond immediate gains and focusing on the bigger picture.2️⃣ Entrepreneurial opportunities for CPA firms: Phil believes that CPA firms are on the verge of becoming multidisciplinary consulting organizations. With the right planning and strategies, CPA firms can expand their services and create tremendous value for their clients. It's an exciting time for the accounting profession!3️⃣ The value of a trusted adviser: Phil highlights the life-changing impact a knowledgeable adviser can have on entrepreneurs. Whether it's saving on taxes or improving operational efficiency, having an adviser who brings value and provides insights can be a game-changer. It's time we see advisers not as expenses, but as valuable investments.PureTax, LLC Empowering Moments05:52 Dad's stories inspired my career choice.07:29 Big Four hire majority of accountants, long hours.13:29 Entrepreneurial journey: Popeye's franchise, bankruptcy amidst recession.19:22 Newlywed distraction, then focused on career.22:27 Big Four vs smaller firms for CPAs.25:26 Reviewed firms, saved money, moved up ranks.27:14 Team operated seamlessly, but I missed everything.32:12 Job vs. business; old firm's offer.36:22 Now we have a team of 50 people and want to boost the profession.38:03 Entrepreneurs need valuable advisers for success.42:45 Outsourcing tasks leads to business success.46:11 Short term pain, long term gain; investment necessary.47:51 46 meetings, 2 daily, with committed people.51:27 Finding silver linings in bad situations.54:50 Private equity entering public accounting with success.58:17 Strategic CPA firms offer golden opportunities.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.https://empoweringtheentrepreneur.com/ Copyright 2025 Glenn Harperhttps://creativecommons.org/licenses/by-nd/4.0/

What challenges and misconceptions did our guest encounter when breaking into the IT industry without a college degree, and how did he overcome them?In this episode, we are honored to have Terry Kim, the founder of NexGenT Academy and a serial entrepreneur, sharing his journey from the military to breaking into the IT industry without a college degree. Terry's commitment to empowering the next generation of IT professionals is truly inspiring. We'll delve into his entrepreneurial endeavors, his passion for holistic healing and sleep optimization, and how he's forging new paths in the tech field. This episode offers an unmissable opportunity to gain valuable entrepreneurial wisdom and take a glimpse into the future of IT education.PureTax, LLC Empowering TakeawaysTerry Kim emphasizes the importance of hands-on training and certifications in IT over traditional 4-year college degrees. Real-world skills and experience are often more valuable in the tech industry.Terry highlights the Japanese concept of Kaizen—continuous improvement—as essential for personal and professional growth. Constant learning and incremental improvements can lead to long-term success. Host Glenn Harper discusses the critical traits of perseverance and curiosity in an entrepreneurial journey. Staying curious allows for innovation, while perseverance helps navigate challenges.Terry Kim identifies his superpower as the ability to inspire and empower those around him. Leadership in entrepreneurship involves motivating others to realize their potential.Terry's story of breaking into IT without a college degree showcases that determination and alternative educational paths (like military training and certification programs) can lead to successful careers.Terry introduces concepts like optimizing delta wave sleep and breathwork for overall well-being. He shares techniques like solphasial frequencies and holistic practices to improve personal growth and health.Terry emphasizes the role of quality sleep in manifesting goals and maintaining health. His startup, Ohm Sleep, focuses on enhancing sleep quality to improve life outcomes.Terry talks about the invaluable lessons learned from his previous failed startups. Failure in entrepreneurship can be a learning experience and a stepping stone to eventual success.Like Terry's journey from the military to Cisco and entrepreneurship, other aspirants are encouraged to carve unique paths. Diverse experiences can enrich an entrepreneurial journey.Terry's mentoring of his daughter in entrepreneurial ventures showcases the importance of guidance, space to innovate, and time to learn from failures for upcoming entrepreneurs. Providing support and learning opportunities can nurture future leaders.These concepts collectively highlight the mindset, practices, and principles that aspiring entrepreneurs and IT professionals can adopt for personal and professional success.Memorable Moments00:00 Passionate entrepreneur and podcaster with cybersecurity bootcamp.05:01 Wanted tech, joined the army to learn.08:24 Specialized training and certifications lead to job opportunities.13:09 Growing up as a military brat and entrepreneurship.15:52 Fascination with complex engineering, security, and future.19:23 Cybersecurity demand is high, and training company offers alternative to college.24:06 Culmination of conversations, trends, market, mentorship, passion.24:52 Rediscovering Ikigai, overcoming failure, launching successful ventures.28:55 Learning from mistakes leads to entrepreneurial success.32:49 Entrepreneurship requires enduring tough times for growth.37:06 Create evening routine for peaceful, mindful sleep.40:13 Holotropic therapy: Studying altered states consciousness.47:02 Kaizen concept: Improve 1% every day.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 https://creativecommons.org/licenses/by-nd/4.0/

How can reflection on the past year help entrepreneurs prepare for the upcoming year?Welcome to another episode of Empowering Entrepreneurs, where we dive into the world of entrepreneurship and offer valuable insights to help you succeed. In this episode, Glenn Harper and Julie Smith reflect on the past year and provide invaluable advice to arm you with the motivation and preparation needed for the upcoming year. They discuss the importance of setting intentional goals, evaluating your journey as an entrepreneur, and the power of building relationships and finding mentors. Throughout the conversation, they emphasize the significance of learning from both the peaks and valleys of the entrepreneurial journey, and the necessity of assembling a trusted team of advisors. Join us as we explore the key takeaways from successful entrepreneurs and gain wisdom to propel us into a new year.PureTax, LLC Empowering TakeawaysDecember is crucial for reflecting on the past year and setting intentional goals for the new year. It allows entrepreneurs to assess their past performance and plan for the future effectively.Entrepreneurs are often their own harshest critics. Reflecting on personal progress can help recognize both accomplishments and areas needing improvement.Constant busyness without progress can be detrimental. Entrepreneurs should evaluate which tasks can be delegated to free up time for high-value activities.Being open to change and discovering new passions is integral. Entrepreneurs often pivot when unexpected opportunities arise.Strong relationships with mentors, supporters, and cheerleaders are essential. These individuals provide honest feedback and encouragement.Helping others and mentoring can lead to personal and professional fulfillment. Success often comes from contributing to causes larger than oneself.The journey can feel isolating. Connecting with other entrepreneurs can provide support and camaraderie, akin to a "Fight Club" where shared experiences are valued.Entrepreneurs often learn the most during challenging times. Perseverance through valleys can lead to significant personal growth and eventual peaks.Success is subjective and not solely tied to financial gain. It’s about overcoming struggles and finding joy in achievements.Entrepreneurs need strategic advisors to navigate upcoming changes and optimize their financial planning.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

How can entrepreneurs balance the need to follow through on promises and deliver on their vision with the pressures of building a business?We are thrilled to announce that our latest episode of the Empowering Entrepreneurs podcast features the incredible Chase Birky, an inspiring entrepreneur who has overcome numerous obstacles on his journey to success.Here are three key takeaways from Chase's story that can empower and guide aspiring entrepreneurs like you:1️⃣ Selling the Vision: Chase emphasizes the importance of selling a compelling vision to early investors, even before your product or service is fully developed. Entrepreneurs often have to sell ahead of what they currently have in place. So, learn how to effectively communicate your vision, inspire others, and secure the support needed to bring your dreams to life.2️⃣ Balancing Business and Relationships: Chase shares his personal journey of finding a balance between building a successful business and maintaining healthy relationships. He highlights the importance of prioritizing the well-being of your loved ones, especially for those with young families. Discover strategies to navigate the challenges of entrepreneurship while nurturing meaningful connections outside of work.3️⃣ Trust and Leadership: Trust is the foundation of any thriving organization. Chase emphasizes the significance of trust in building a strong team and delegating responsibilities. As businesses mature, it becomes crucial to establish systems and processes that cultivate trust and allow everyone to contribute their best. Learn how to foster a culture of trust within your organization and leverage the power of a united team.PureTax, LLC Empowering Moments05:57 Job dissatisfaction: challenging experience, limited growth.08:29 Lost love for baseball, pursued entrepreneurship instead.12:42 Empowering journey of building, personal and professional growth17:02 Starting small, success can lead to challenges.18:25 Process, mindset, value, price, scale, entrepreneur, work.22:48 Accounting industry needs better business model.24:55 Experience with both small and large companies.29:19 Understanding customer challenges and soft skills matter.33:16 Co-founder joined to build successful company.36:48 Depressed working at big firm, disliked job.38:57 Struggles, entrepreneurship, balance, privacy, prevention, sharing experiences.44:48 Selling a vision, pressure, tough for entrepreneurs.50:35 Abundance of trust vital for entrepreneurial success.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 https://creativecommons.org/licenses/by-nd/4.0/