Vital Strategies

Are you unknowingly leaving money on the table in your business? In this episode of the Vital Wealth Strategies Podcast, host Patrick Lonergan sits down with Jason Kramer, founder of Cultivize, to uncover how entrepreneurs can stop losing track of leads, strengthen client relationships, and scale their revenue through smarter CRM systems. Together, they dive deep into why most CRMs fail, how to design one that fits your business, and the proven automation tactics that can help you capture more opportunities without spending another dollar on marketing.  Listeners will walk away with actionable strategies to streamline lead management, improve follow-up, and plug the profit leaks hiding in plain sight. Whether you’re running your business out of spreadsheets or frustrated with yet another CRM that doesn’t deliver, this episode will show you how to turn organization into income and why strategic systems are the foundation for lasting growth.  Key Takeaways:  Why most entrepreneurs lose money from disorganized follow-up systems  The three essentials to choosing the right CRM for your business  How automation and lead scoring can boost conversions effortlessly  The power of nurturing leads through education, not pressure  Why scaling starts with plugging the leaks, not chasing new leads  How strategy, in business and taxes, drives sustainable wealth  Learn More About Jason:  Official Website: https://cultivize.com/  Resources:    Visit www.vitalstrategies.com to download FREE resources      Listen to the podcast on your favorite app: https://link.chtbl.com/vitalstrategies     Follow on Instagram at https://www.instagram.com/vital.strategies       Follow on Facebook at https://www.facebook.com/VitalStrategiesPodcast      Follow on LinkedIn at https://www.linkedin.com/in/patricklonergan/      Credits:     Sponsored by Vital Wealth     Music by Cephas     Art work by Two Tone Creative  Audio, video, research and copywriting by Victoria O'Brien

Why are you really building your business? In this solo episode of The Vital Wealth Podcast, host Patrick Lonergan takes listeners beyond profit and productivity to explore what it truly means to live an optimized life. Drawing from years of helping entrepreneurs minimize taxes, master wealth, and pursue freedom through the Entrepreneur Private Office financial structure, Patrick introduces a powerful framework for the most valuable things in life called R.E.A.C.H.: Relationships, Experiences, Advancement, Contribution, and Health. With practical examples, timeless wisdom, and personal stories, he reveals how aligning your business and life with biblical truth leads to fulfillment that money alone can’t buy.  Listeners will discover how to integrate faith, family, and business without sacrificing one for the other. Patrick shares insights from leaders like Herb Kelleher, Howard Schultz, and David Green, along with lessons from his own marriage, parenting, and spiritual journey. Whether you’re a high-performing entrepreneur seeking peace or a purpose-driven leader ready to realign your priorities, this episode offers a roadmap to build both wealth and a life that lasts.  Key Takeaways:  Discover the R.E.A.C.H. framework for a truly optimized life.  Learn why relationships are the foundation of lasting success.  See how both good and bad experiences shape purpose and growth.  Understand advancement as alignment with your values, not endless hustle.  Explore contribution as stewardship and gratitude in action.  Embracing full health, physical, emotional, and spiritual, as the fuel for impact.  Episode Resources: Rest by Alex Pang  The Gap and the Gain by Dan Sullivan Mere Christianity by C.S. Lewis Top Five Regrets of the Dying by Bonnie Ware The Ruthless Elimination of Hurry by John Mark Comer Resources:    Visit www.vitalstrategies.com to download FREE resources      Listen to the podcast on your favorite app: https://link.chtbl.com/vitalstrategies     Follow on Instagram at https://www.instagram.com/vital.strategies       Follow on Facebook at https://www.facebook.com/VitalStrategiesPodcast      Follow on LinkedIn at https://www.linkedin.com/in/patricklonergan/      Credits:     Sponsored by Vital Wealth     Music by Cephas     Art work by Two Tone Creative  Audio, video, research and copywriting by Victoria O'Brien

What if you could sell your business for full market value, keep your culture intact, and still reward the employees who helped you build it? In this episode of the Vital Wealth Strategies Podcast, host Patrick Lonergan sits down with Gary Gray, from Tenor ESOP Partners, to unpack how entrepreneurs can maximize value and create lasting wealth through an Employee Stock Ownership Plan (ESOP). Gary shares his personal story of selling his own business through an ESOP, growing it threefold afterward, and now guiding other owners through the same life-changing process.  Patrick and Gary dive deep into what makes ESOPs such a powerful and often overlooked exit strategy. They explore how to determine if your business is a good fit, the tax advantages available to sellers, and how ESOPs can help preserve company culture while creating generational wealth for both owners and employees. Whether you’re planning your exit or just want to structure your business more strategically, this conversation reveals how the right approach can help you sell smart, protect your legacy, and stay engaged in the business you love.  Key Takeaways:  What an ESOP is and how it works as a powerful succession tool  The minimum size and structure a business needs to qualify for an ESOP  How entrepreneurs can sell for full market value and defer or eliminate capital gains taxes  The cultural and financial advantages of turning employees into owners  Why ESOPs help founders stay engaged and preserve purpose post-exit  How to connect with the Tenor ESOP Partners team for personalized guidance Learn More About Gary: LinkedIn: Gary Gray, CEPA® | LinkedIn Official Website: https://tenoresop.com Resources:    Visit www.vitalstrategies.com to download FREE resources      Listen to the podcast on your favorite app: https://link.chtbl.com/vitalstrategies     Follow on Instagram at https://www.instagram.com/vital.strategies       Follow on Facebook at https://www.facebook.com/VitalStrategiesPodcast      Follow on LinkedIn at https://www.linkedin.com/in/patricklonergan/      Credits:     Sponsored by Vital Wealth     Music by Cephas     Art work by Two Tone Creative  Audio, video, research and copywriting by Victoria O'Brien

What if the way entrepreneurs think about marketing is the very thing holding them back from sustainable growth? On this episode of the Vital Wealth Strategies Podcast, host Patrick Lonergan sits down with Bryan Phelps, founder of Big Leap Digital Marketing Agency, to uncover what’s really working in today’s ever-changing landscape. From the rise of AI reshaping how customers search and discover brands, to the timeless importance of clear messaging and brand trust, this conversation is packed with insights every entrepreneur needs to hear.  Patrick and Bryan explore the pitfalls of chasing shiny new marketing tactics, the power of brand-led performance marketing, and how to craft messaging that resonates and converts. Listeners will also hear practical advice on choosing the right channels, building long-term customer relationships, and investing wisely in marketing that scales with the business. If you’ve ever felt stuck between rising ad costs, shifting SEO rules, and the overwhelming number of digital strategies available, this episode will give you clarity and confidence to move forward.  Key Takeaways:  How AI is changing search behavior and what it means for entrepreneurs.  The difference between branding and marketing and why both matter.  Why being remembered is more powerful than just being discovered.  Tools like SparkToro to identify where your customers actually spend time online.  How to build a marketing system that scales with your business and avoids wasted spend.  Learn More About Bryan: Official Website: BigLeap.com  LinkedIn: Bryan Phelps | LinkedIn Resources:    Visit www.vitalstrategies.com to download FREE resources      Listen to the podcast on your favorite app: https://link.chtbl.com/vitalstrategies     Follow on Instagram at https://www.instagram.com/vital.strategies       Follow on Facebook at https://www.facebook.com/VitalStrategiesPodcast      Follow on LinkedIn at https://www.linkedin.com/in/patricklonergan/      Credits:     Sponsored by Vital Wealth     Music by Cephas     Art work by Two Tone Creative  Audio, video, research and copywriting by Victoria O'Brien

What happens when artificial intelligence reshapes the way intellectual property is created, shared, and monetized? On this episode of the Vital Wealth Strategies Podcast, host Patrick Lonergan sits down with Nirav Murthy, co-founder and co-CEO of Camp Network, to tackle one of the most pressing questions facing entrepreneurs and creators today: how to protect your work in an AI-driven world. From blockchain verification to smart contracts, Nirav reveals how Camp Network is building tools that allow creators to not only safeguard their content but also turn it into revenue-generating assets.  Listeners will hear real-world examples ranging from Black Mirror and SpongeBob to international music festivals and online courses. Patrick and Nirav break down how tokenization is disrupting outdated systems of licensing, ownership, and financing and why this matters for business owners looking to maximize their income and future-proof their strategies. Whether you’re an entrepreneur, a creative, or simply curious about the intersection of AI, blockchain, and business growth, this conversation offers insights that can help you monetize your intellectual property and build long-term wealth.  Key Takeaways:  Why traditional IP systems are broken in the age of AI and how blockchain offers solutions.  How Camp Network helps creators register, verify, and monetize their work on-chain.  Real-world use cases with major IP brands, festivals, and content creators.  The shift from one-time licensing fees to royalty-based income models.  How entrepreneurs can apply these principles to their own courses, content, and businesses.  Learn More About Nirav:  Camp Network: campnetwork.xyz  Case Study Examples:   Sahara AI  Resources:    Visit www.vitalstrategies.com to download FREE resources      Listen to the podcast on your favorite app: https://link.chtbl.com/vitalstrategies     Follow on Instagram at https://www.instagram.com/vital.strategies       Follow on Facebook at https://www.facebook.com/VitalStrategiesPodcast      Follow on LinkedIn at https://www.linkedin.com/in/patricklonergan/      Credits:     Sponsored by Vital Wealth     Music by Cephas     Art work by Two Tone Creative  Audio, video, research and copywriting by Victoria O'Brien

Are you running your business by looking at your bank balance and hoping for the best? On this episode of the Vital Wealth Strategies Podcast, host Patrick Lonergan sits down with Natalia Zacharin, founder of Zacharian Consulting and a financial strategist who transformed her side hustle into a multimillion-dollar firm recognized on the Inc. 5000 list. Together, they break down why financial clarity is the foundation of every successful business and how entrepreneurs can avoid the pitfalls of cash flow stress, tax surprises, and costly mistakes.  Listeners will discover the step-by-step journey of building a financial team, from bookkeepers to fractional CFOs, and learn about the essential tools that streamline accounting, payroll, and forecasting. Natalia and Patrick also share the psychology behind managing cash, strategies for building healthy reserves, and the key financial metrics every entrepreneur should be tracking. Whether you’re just starting out or scaling into eight figures, this conversation provides actionable insights that will help you protect your profit, plan with confidence, and unlock long-term growth.  Key Takeaways:  Why your first hire should be a bookkeeper, not an afterthought  The difference between profit and cash and why it matters  How to forecast with confidence and avoid running out of money  The essential tech stack for accounting, payroll, and bill pay  When to bring in a tax strategist, controller, or CFO  Best practices for building cash reserves and protecting your business  Learn More About Natalia: Official Website  Direct Resource Page  Resources:    Visit www.vitalstrategies.com to download FREE resources      Listen to the podcast on your favorite app: https://link.chtbl.com/vitalstrategies     Follow on Instagram at https://www.instagram.com/vital.strategies       Follow on Facebook at https://www.facebook.com/VitalStrategiesPodcast      Follow on LinkedIn at https://www.linkedin.com/in/patricklonergan/      Credits:     Sponsored by Vital Wealth     Music by Cephas     Art work by Two Tone Creative  Audio, video, research and copywriting by Victoria O'Brien

What if the key to scaling your business faster wasn’t working harder but learning how to leverage capital the right way? In this episode of the Vital Wealth Strategies Podcast, host Patrick Lonergan sits down with Jimmy Rios, CEO and founder of Rios Business Advisors and Next Level Credit. Together, they dive deep into the world of business credit, strategic leverage, and building the financial foundation every entrepreneur needs to thrive. From creative financing strategies to building systems that generate additional income streams, this episode is packed with actionable insights to help entrepreneurs grow smarter and faster.  Whether you’re struggling to access capital, looking for ways to make your money work harder for you, or simply want to better understand how the wealthy think about leverage, this conversation will give you a clear blueprint. Don’t miss this opportunity to discover how to position your business for growth, protect your profits, and create the systems that support long-term success, while keeping more of what you earn through smart tax planning.  Key Takeaways:  Why leverage, used wisely, is essential for scaling any business.  How to build and improve business credit to unlock low-cost capital.  The importance of separating personal and business finances for growth.  Creative financing strategies, including using business entities to build credit.  How a strong financial team and tax strategy can maximize your bottom line.  Actionable steps to start building your blueprint for business success today.  Learn More About Jimmy: Book: Decoding the Mystery of Business Credit on Amazon and as an eBook on riosbusinessfunding.com. YouTube Channel: Rios Business Funding – educational videos and strategies. Program: Eye Level to High Level – structured program for credit, funding, and business scaling. Resources:    Visit www.vitalstrategies.com to download FREE resources      Listen to the podcast on your favorite app: https://link.chtbl.com/vitalstrategies     Follow on Instagram at https://www.instagram.com/vital.strategies       Follow on Facebook at https://www.facebook.com/VitalStrategiesPodcast      Follow on LinkedIn at https://www.linkedin.com/in/patricklonergan/      Credits:     Sponsored by Vital Wealth     Music by Cephas     Art work by Two Tone Creative  Audio, video, research and copywriting by Victoria O'Brien

What if scaling your business revenue didn’t mean working harder but working smarter? In this episode of the Vital Wealth Strategies Podcast, host Patrick Lonergan sits down with David Asarnow, founder of Business Nitrogen and a leading expert in revenue growth and AI-driven marketing strategies. Together, they unpack how entrepreneurs can create exponential growth by identifying their “best buyers,” leveraging intentional marketing campaigns, and harnessing the power of AI to streamline outreach and conversion.  Whether you’re a seasoned entrepreneur or just starting to scale, this conversation offers actionable insights you can implement today. From building multi-touch campaigns to engineering AI prompts that actually deliver results, David shares the systems and mindset shifts that turn stagnant revenue into unstoppable momentum. If you’re ready to grow smarter, keep more of what you earn, and build long-term wealth, this episode is packed with strategies you won’t want to miss.  Key takeaways:  How to identify your “Target 25” and create campaigns that truly resonate with your best buyers.  Practical ways to use AI for marketing, outreach, and lead management.  Why storytelling and sharing your origin story build trust and drive sales.  The importance of consistent, intentional follow-up for high-ticket sales.  How to pair revenue growth with smart tax planning to maximize your wealth.  Learn More About David:  Davidasarnow.com Instagram: @realdavidasarnow   Episode Resources:  Secrets of the Millionaire Mind – T. Harv Eker  Influence – Robert Cialdini  Selling to VITO – Anthony Parinello  Resources:    Visit www.vitalstrategies.com to download FREE resources      Listen to the podcast on your favorite app: https://link.chtbl.com/vitalstrategies     Follow on Instagram at https://www.instagram.com/vital.strategies       Follow on Facebook at https://www.facebook.com/VitalStrategiesPodcast      Follow on LinkedIn at https://www.linkedin.com/in/patricklonergan/      Credits:     Sponsored by Vital Wealth     Music by Cephas     Art work by Two Tone Creative  Audio, video, research and copywriting by Victoria O'Brien

Are you unintentionally leaving your business vulnerable to fraud or cyberattacks? In this episode of the Vital Wealth Strategies Podcast, host Patrick Lonergan sits down with trusted expert Megan Kinney for a powerful conversation about financial protection and operational safeguards every entrepreneur should know. From sophisticated fraud to internal embezzlement, this episode pulls back the curtain on the real risks business owners face, and offers clear, practical strategies to help prevent costly mistakes before they happen.  Patrick and Megan explore how adding the right amount of friction to your financial systems can actually protect your profits, and why it’s crucial to rethink the information your business shares publicly. They discuss the importance of audits, team training, and mindset shifts that can help entrepreneurs stay secure in an increasingly risky world. If you're serious about building a resilient business, minimizing loss, and maximizing confidence in your operations, this is an episode you won’t want to miss.  Key Takeaways:  Why sharing too much information online can make your business a target  How to create "friction" in financial processes that protect you  The dangers of internal fraud and how to spot early warning signs  The value of third-party audits and quarterly financial reviews  Why law enforcement can’t always recover stolen funds and what to do instead  The mindset shift entrepreneurs must adopt to protect and scale effectively  Resources:    Visit www.vitalstrategies.com to download FREE resources      Listen to the podcast on your favorite app: https://link.chtbl.com/vitalstrategies     Follow on Instagram at https://www.instagram.com/vital.strategies       Follow on Facebook at https://www.facebook.com/VitalStrategiesPodcast      Follow on LinkedIn at https://www.linkedin.com/in/patricklonergan/      Credits:     Sponsored by Vital Wealth     Music by Cephas     Art work by Two Tone Creative  Audio, video, research and copywriting by Victoria O'Brien  

What if you could secure funding for a real estate deal in weeks instead of months, without the slow, bureaucratic process of traditional banks and still protect your downside like a seasoned investor? In this episode of the Vital Wealth Strategies Podcast, host Patrick Lonergan sits down with Dave Kotter, founder of Hybrid Debt Fund and Integrity Capital, to explore a game-changing approach to real estate financing and private credit investing. Whether you’re a developer looking to close deals faster or an accredited investor seeking secure, high-yield opportunities, this conversation reveals how Hybrid Debt Fund is bridging the gap left by conventional lenders.  Patrick and Dave unpack how the fund provides loans for $5M–$15M projects, manages risk through first-position collateral, and offers investors a unique blend of fixed income and equity-style upside. They dive into the types of projects,  finance from multifamily rehabs to RV parks and discuss market trends, risk mitigation strategies, and why private credit is booming while banks tighten lending. By the end, listeners will understand how to leverage this model to accelerate their business growth or diversify their investment portfolio with confidence.  Key Takeaways:  How Hybrid Debt Fund’s senior stretch loans work and why they’re faster than traditional financing.  The asset classes and deal sizes that fit their investment criteria.  Risk mitigation strategies that protect both developers and investors.  Why private credit is expanding while traditional banks scale back.  How accredited investors can earn fixed income plus upside participation in multiple projects.  Learn More About Dave Kotter  Email: dave.kotter@hybriddebtfund.com  Website: hybriddebtfund.com  Phone: (602) 367-8795 Resources:    Visit www.vitalstrategies.com to download FREE resources      Listen to the podcast on your favorite app: https://link.chtbl.com/vitalstrategies     Follow on Instagram at https://www.instagram.com/vital.strategies       Follow on Facebook at https://www.facebook.com/VitalStrategiesPodcast      Follow on LinkedIn at https://www.linkedin.com/in/patricklonergan/      Credits:     Sponsored by Vital Wealth     Music by Cephas     Art work by Two Tone Creative  Audio, video, research and copywriting by Victoria O'Brien