

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

Oct 24, 2025 • 26min
#598 Hold Your Family Board Meeting by Year-End!
In this episode of the Main Street Business Podcast, Mark J. Kohler and Mat Sorensen break down why every small business owner should hold their annual Family Board Meeting before the end of the year. This powerful meeting isn’t just a formality — it’s a proven strategy to strengthen your business, protect your assets, and educate your family about wealth and responsibility. You’ll learn how to make your Family Board Meeting IRS-compliant, maximize write-offs, document your decisions properly, and create a legacy plan that keeps your business and family aligned for years to come. Mark and Mat share real examples, step-by-step guidance, and practical insights to help you get it done right before December 31st. Don’t wait until tax season to get organized — plan your Family Board Meeting now and take control of your financial future!You’ll learn:How to structure and hold your Family Board Meeting before year-end to stay compliant and maximize tax benefitsThe 7 key reasons every business owner needs an annual Family Board Meeting — from asset protection to financial educationHow to properly document your meeting minutes so your business stays audit-proof with the IRSSmart ways to include your spouse and kids in your business legally — and teach them real-world wealth principlesWhat expenses you can write off when holding your Family Board Meeting, including travel and meeting costsHow this meeting supports your business continuity plan and legacy goals for future generationsSimple steps to get your Family Board Meeting done before December 31st — and set your business up for long-term successGet 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=msbp598-family-board-meeting-by-year-end 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!

11 snips
Oct 17, 2025 • 40min
#597 Smart Strategies to Pay Yourself and Save Thousands
Dive into smart strategies for small business owners! Learn when to switch from an LLC to an S-Corp using the $50K rule. Discover how to transfer real estate into an LLC without triggering pitfalls. Unpack the distinction between true business income and passive income like royalties. Get tips on correctly paying yourself to avoid IRS issues and explore bookkeeping secrets for tax season. Plus, maximize retirement contributions and understand self-directed IRAs. Practical insights await every entrepreneur!

Oct 10, 2025 • 30min
#596 How to Set Up, Maintain, and Maximize Your Solo 401(k)
Take control of your retirement with our Solo 401(k) Special, starting at $895. The offer ends on October 17, 2025! Learn more: https://kkoslawyers.com/solo-401k-special-2025/?utm_source=buzzsprout&utm_medium=description-link&utm_content=596-solo-401k-p2-maintain&utm_campaign=main-street-business-podcastAre you taking full advantage of one of the best retirement strategies available to entrepreneurs and small business owners? In this episode of the Main Street Business Podcast, Mark J. Kohler and Mat Sorensen dive deep into how to set up, maintain, and maximize your Solo 401(k) — giving you the tools to make the most of this powerful retirement plan.The Solo 401(k) offers higher contribution limits, flexible investment options, and unique tax advantages that make it one of the most attractive plans for the self-employed. Mark and Mat break down everything you need to know about eligibility, plan setup, ongoing compliance, and strategies to ensure your plan is working for you. They’ll also cover common mistakes, key rules to remember, and proven ways to grow your wealth through real estate, small business investments, and alternative assets inside your Solo 401(k).Whether you’re new to retirement planning or already have a Solo 401(k) in place, this episode provides practical steps to help you stay compliant, maximize contributions, and take full advantage of the tax-saving opportunities available. By the end, you’ll understand why the Solo 401(k) is often a smarter choice than a SEP IRA or other retirement plans — and how to ensure yours is structured correctly.If you’re serious about saving taxes, building wealth, and taking control of your financial future, this is an episode you don’t want to miss!You’ll learn:How to determine if you qualify for a Solo 401(k) — even if you have part-time employees or a small side businessThe key rules for full-time and part-time employees, and how to stay compliant as your business growsSmart strategies for setting optimal salary levels for yourself and your spouse to maximize contributions and minimize taxesThe different contribution options (traditional, Roth, and employer match) and how to combine them for greater flexibilityHow to roll over or restate an existing 401(k) into a self-directed plan that lets you invest in what you know bestGet 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=596-solo-401k-p2-maintain 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 6, 2025 • 23min
#595 Benefits of a Solo 401(k) and How to Qualify
Take control of your retirement with our Solo 401(k) Special, starting at $895. The offer ends on October 17, 2025! Learn more: https://kkoslawyers.com/solo-401k-special-2025/?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-sol 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!

8 snips
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!

18 snips
Sep 5, 2025 • 26min
#592 The 10 Biggest LLC Mistakes (And How to Avoid Them!)
Learn how to set up your LLC effectively and avoid costly mistakes. Discover the importance of choosing the right state for registration and the right entity structure to save on taxes. Find out why having proper documentation like operating agreements is crucial for protecting personal assets. Get tips on selecting a registered agent to keep your information safe and maintain professionalism. Plus, streamline your business operations with expert advice on delegating tasks and legal compliance!

29 snips
Aug 22, 2025 • 27min
#591 Benefits of a Privacy Address
Privacy is essential for protecting your personal information while running a business. Discover why manager-managed LLCs are preferable for privacy. Explore how registered agents and privacy addresses can shield your home address from public records. Learn about the six states that require a ghost address and the pros and cons of using PO boxes. The podcast delves into tailored privacy strategies, illustrating the balance between asset protection and personal confidentiality with engaging metaphors.

12 snips
Aug 15, 2025 • 34min
#590 Be Your Own Landlord: 3 Unique Strategies
Discover how to transform your finances by becoming your own landlord. Learn three innovative real estate strategies, like renting your commercial building to yourself and purchasing your child's college home to generate cash flow. Explore the advantages of buying your parents' house for asset protection and tax benefits. Gain insights into maximizing tax savings with methods like cost segregation and bonus depreciation. Plus, uncover the emotional and practical benefits of managing family real estate as you navigate financial independence.

4 snips
Aug 8, 2025 • 30min
#589 The SALT Workaround After the One Big Beautiful Bill (OBBB)
Join Mark and Mat as they discuss the powerful SALT workaround in 36 states. You can have unlimited deductions for state taxes for this workaround strategy and exceed the $40,000 with the workaround. You’ll learn:The 3 steps to see if you qualify for the SALT workaroundThe 3 steps to implement it before year-endHow to navigate state-specific deadlines and formsWhy acting in 2025 is critical for 2025 tax savingsGet a comprehensive tax consultation with one of our mains 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=SALT_Deduction 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!


