Vital Strategies

Is your insurance policy building wealth or just a cost? In this episode of the Vital Wealth Strategies Podcast, host Patrick Lonergan, founder of Vital Wealth, sits down with Wallis Wilkinson Tsai, a former Goldman Sachs investment banker, hedge fund investor, and co-founder of AboveBoard Financial. Together, they explore how insurance can become a powerful tool in your financial strategy, if it’s used correctly. Whether you're a high-level entrepreneur, CEO, or business owner, this conversation will show you how to turn insurance from a sunk cost into a high-leverage asset.  Wallis shares her expertise on everything from tax-optimized life insurance structures to often-overlooked tools like disability coverage and executive benefits. This episode will challenge what you’ve heard about “buy term and invest the rest,” and introduce you to strategies like Irrevocable Life Insurance Trusts (ILITs), Private Placement Life Insurance (PPLI), and buy-sell agreements that can drastically improve your financial outcomes. If you’re looking to reduce taxes, preserve wealth, and make smarter decisions about your business and legacy, you’ll want to listen all the way through.  Key Takeaways:  Why most insurance sales are misaligned with client goals  How to use life insurance for tax-deferred and tax-free growth  The hidden importance of disability insurance for business owners  Estate planning strategies using Irrevocable Life Insurance Trusts (ILITs) and survivorship policies  How executive benefit carve-outs can retain top talent and reduce tax liability  A breakdown of Whole Life, Indexed Universal Life (IUL), Variable Universal Life (VUL), and Private Placement Life Insurance (PPLI), plus when to use each  Why now is the time to reevaluate your insurance strategy  Learn More About Wallis: Episode Exclusive Website Official Website 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

Could AI your biggest untapped business partner? In this episode of the Vital Wealth Strategies Podcast, host Patrick Lonergan is joined by Jonathan Mast, an AI prompting pioneer and seasoned digital innovator who’s been leveraging emerging tech since the earliest days of the internet. Together, they unpack how AI is transforming the way entrepreneurs operate, making it easier to save time, increase profits, and deliver more value without burning out or hiring more people.  From marketing strategies and SOP creation to customer service automation and building your own virtual board of advisors, Jonathan breaks down real-world use cases that anyone can implement, regardless of tech experience. If you’ve ever felt overwhelmed by AI or unsure where to begin, this episode gives you the roadmap. Tune in and discover how to start small, think smarter, and use AI to unlock next-level growth in your business.  Key Takeaways:  Why AI isn't the future. It's now, and how to start using it without feeling overwhelmed  The 3-part formula every entrepreneur needs: save time, make more money, add more value  How to prompt AI like a pro using a simple 4-step framework  The power of SOPs, customer support automation, and AI-generated marketing copy  How to create your own virtual board of advisors using AI personas  Why entrepreneurs who avoid AI risk falling behind in a rapidly evolving economy   Learn More About Jonathan: Official Website 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  

Is your wealth strategy stuck on the ground floor? Learn how Lane Kawaoka went from a civil engineer to managing over $2.1 billion in real estate—and how you can use the same framework to create your own wealth elevator.  In this episode of the Vital Wealth Strategies Podcast, host Patrick Lonergan sits down with Lane Kawaoka, former civil engineer turned real estate powerhouse, bestselling author, and host of a top 50 investing podcast. Lane shares his journey from buying his first rental in Seattle to building a portfolio of over 10,000 units and founding The Wealth Elevator. If you're a high-income earner looking for scalable, tax-efficient ways to build passive income through real estate syndications and advanced private equity strategies, this conversation is packed with insights you can't afford to miss.  Lane breaks down the four key wealth drivers in real estate, demystifies syndications, and shares his powerful Wealth Elevator framework to help investors at every stage, from getting out of debt to leveraging alternative investments. You’ll also hear Lane’s candid take on current market conditions, what to watch out for in deal underwriting, and why multifamily remains a resilient asset class. Whether you're just getting started or navigating the complexities of accredited investing, this episode offers a roadmap to smarter, more strategic wealth-building.  Key Takeaways:  The two best paths to building long-term wealth: business ownership vs. real estate investing  How cash flow, appreciation, amortization, and depreciation work together in real estate  Why syndications are a scalable and tax-efficient alternative to direct ownership  Lane’s Wealth Elevator framework works for everyone  How to vet syndication deals with conservative underwriting metrics  Why Lane prefers single-asset deals over blind pool funds  Economic trends affecting real estate in 2025 and beyond  How private equity fits into a diversified, cash-flow-focused portfolio  Learn More About Lane:  Official Website 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 building a legacy that lasts or leaving your wealth exposed to taxes, lawsuits, and family conflict?  In this episode of the Vital Wealth Strategies Podcast, host Patrick Lonergan sits down with Anthony Joffe, Chairman of Sterling Trustees, one of the nation’s top independent corporate trustees based in South Dakota. With nearly two decades of experience helping ultra-high-net-worth families structure their trusts, Anthony shares powerful insights into why trusts are more than estate tools, they're strategic wealth planning vehicles. Patrick and Anthony explore what makes South Dakota the gold standard for trust law, the dangers of choosing the wrong trustee, and how smart entrepreneurs are protecting their wealth for generations to come.  Whether you're just getting started with estate planning or you're already managing substantial assets, this episode is packed with practical strategies that can save millions in taxes, avoid probate, and create long-term clarity for your family and business. If you’re serious about protecting what you’ve built, this is one you don’t want to miss.  Key Takeaways:  Why South Dakota is the premier jurisdiction for trust planning  The difference between a corporate trustee, a family member, and a bank  How directed trusts and trust protectors create more control and flexibility  The dangers of poor trust drafting and outdated estate documents  Why flat-fee, independent trustees eliminate conflicts of interest  What to expect when working with a professional trustee like Sterling  How to start or transition your trust the right way  Learn More About Antony: Phone: 610-234-0626  Official Website 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  

Have you ever walked away from a sales conversation thinking it went perfectly, only to lose the deal anyway? In this episode of the Vital Wealth Strategies Podcast, host Patrick Lonergan sits down with Ari Galper, the world’s leading authority on trust-based selling and the author of seven bestselling books. Patrick and Ari dive deep into why traditional sales methods fail even when conversations seem to go well and how entrepreneurs can shift to a trust-first approach that builds genuine relationships and dramatically increases close rates. Ari shares the pivotal story that changed his entire philosophy on sales, revealing the hidden pitfalls that most entrepreneurs unknowingly fall into.  If you’ve ever struggled with feeling "too salesy" or wondered why prospects hesitate even after showing enthusiasm, this episode offers a refreshing alternative. Ari lays out a simple, actionable framework to transform your approach from pushing solutions to diagnosing real problems, and from chasing clients to attracting committed ones. Learn how trust-based selling can help you stop convincing and start connecting at a much deeper level, especially if you sell high-ticket services or low-volume offers.  Key Takeaways:  Traditional sales tactics break trust and create hidden resistance.  Trust is built by diagnosing problems, not pitching solutions.  Deep, reflective questions uncover the real pain points prospects are facing.  A simple sales roadmap builds confidence without overwhelming prospects.  Charging for the first step filters out tire-kickers and elevates your authority.  True sales success comes from being seen as an expert, not a persuader.  Learn More About Ari:  Official Website Episode Resources:  Influence, New and Expanded: The Psychology of Persuasion by Rober Cialdini 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

Have you ever felt like your conversations aren’t landing the way you want them to? Whether it’s with clients, employees, or even family, communication can be the difference between building trust and creating disconnect. In this episode of the Vital Wealth Strategies Podcast, host Patrick Lonergan sits down with Mary Schmid, a communication and leadership expert specializing in the neuroscience of conversations. Mary shares how small shifts in the way we communicate can lead to deeper connections, stronger business relationships, and better outcomes.  Together, Patrick and Mary explore the three levels of conversation and why most professionals operate at a surface level without realizing it. They break down how to create transformational conversations that build trust, reframe difficult discussions, and engage clients in a way that makes decision-making easier. Whether you’re leading a team, closing a deal, or looking to improve your overall communication skills, this episode is packed with actionable insights to help you connect more effectively and drive real results.  Key Takeaways from This Episode:  The science behind how conversations impact trust, decision-making, and engagement.  The three levels of communication and why most people get stuck at the first two.  How to shift from transactional to transformational conversations.  Practical strategies for handling difficult discussions with clients or employees.  Simple techniques to immediately improve how you connect and communicate in business and life.  Learn More About Mary: Official Website 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

Are your business financials holding you back without you even realizing it? Many entrepreneurs have a great product and strong marketing, but when it comes to bookkeeping, cash flow, and financial strategy, things get messy. In this episode of The Vital Wealth Strategies Podcast, host Patrick Lonergan sits down with Matt Tait, CEO of Decimal, to uncover the biggest financial mistakes business owners make and how to fix them. Matt shares his journey from law to entrepreneurship, the role of technology in financial management, and the critical shifts needed to scale a business profitably.  This conversation is packed with insights on simplifying bookkeeping, leveraging automation, and ensuring financial clarity so entrepreneurs can focus on growing their wealth, reducing stress, and maximizing profitability. Whether you're struggling with financial organization, preparing for an eventual sale, or just looking to optimize your cash flow, this episode is full of actionable advice you won’t want to miss.  Key Takeaways:  Why most entrepreneurs avoid their financials and how to change that  Having huge revenue is great but only when it leads to profit.   How automation and the right tech stack can eliminate financial stress  Why good financials are essential if you ever want to sell your business  Practical steps to go from financial mess to financial clarity  Learn more about Matt:  Decimal Website  Matt Tait LinkedIn  Episode Resources:  Unreasonable Hospitality by Will Guidara  7 Habits of Highly Effective People by Stephen Covey  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 there was a legal way to eliminate taxes on millions of dollars in investment gains—permanently? In this episode of the Vital Wealth Strategies Podcast, host Patrick Lonergan sits down with Michael Malloy, a global authority on Private Placement Life Insurance (PPLI). With over 30 years of experience helping wealthy families protect and grow their assets, Michael shares how this little-known strategy can transform the financial future of entrepreneurs, real estate investors, and crypto holders.  Patrick and Michael dive into the structure and benefits of PPLI, how it fits into a larger wealth-building strategy, and why it’s one of the most powerful yet underutilized tools available to high-net-worth entrepreneurs. Listeners will walk away with a clearer understanding of how to reduce tax exposure, protect their assets from lawsuits or divorce, and create legacy wealth—without giving up control of their investments.  Key Takeaways:  What Private Placement Life Insurance (PPLI) is and how it works  Why PPLI is a powerful tool for entrepreneurs with $20M+ net worth or major liquidity events  How PPLI can shelter crypto, real estate, and even business interests from taxation  The role of investor control and why it's critical to get the structure right  Real-life case studies that show both the potential of PPLI  The importance of assembling the right team, including legal and tax experts, to execute this strategy  How PPLI fits into a larger strategy to minimize taxes, protect wealth, and optimize legacy planning  Learn More About Michael: Official Website 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 makes a business truly successful? It’s not just about having a great product or strong marketing—it’s about building a team that is engaged, motivated, and aligned with your vision. In this episode of The Vital Wealth Strategies Podcast, host Patrick Lonergan sits down with Haley Grayless, CEO and Founder of Vaxa Collective, to discuss the critical role of leadership and workplace culture in driving business success. Haley shares her expertise on how to create a thriving, high-performing team by focusing on emotional intelligence, psychological safety, and performance accountability.  Whether you're struggling with disengaged employees, high turnover, or unclear communication, this episode is packed with actionable insights to help you build a culture that attracts and retains A-players. Haley outlines her five pillars of successful leadership, explains why psychological safety is the #1 predictor of high-performing teams, and provides practical strategies that entrepreneurs can implement today. If you want to lead with purpose, develop a winning team, and take your business to the next level, this is a conversation you won’t want to miss!  Key Takeaways:  The biggest culture mistakes that kill team performance and how to avoid them.  The five pillars of successful leadership that every entrepreneur needs to master.  Why psychological safety is crucial for innovation and long-term success.  How to create clear expectations and accountability without micromanaging.  Strategies to attract and retain top talent by building a purpose-driven workplace.  Learn More About Hayley:  Official Website: Vaxa Collective  Email: haley@vaxacollective.com  Instagram: @haleytheleadershipcoach  Episode Resources:    Dare to Lead by Brené Brown   Extreme Ownership by Jocko Willink  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 unlocking your next level of business growth isn’t another tool or tactic—but a room full of trusted advisors?  In this episode of the Vital Wealth Strategies Podcast, host Patrick Lonergan sits down with Evan Kraut, co-founder and managing partner of Board Stream, a company that builds and manages advisory boards as a service. With a rich background in startup growth, private equity, and executive leadership, Evan shares how the right advisory board can help entrepreneurs gain clarity, avoid costly mistakes, and scale more effectively. Whether you’re running a high-growth business or just starting to build out your executive team, this episode offers powerful insights into how to structure strategic, customer, and project advisory boards—and why every entrepreneur should be thinking about this sooner rather than later.  If you’ve ever wondered when it’s time to bring in outside perspective, how to attract the right people to your board, or how to turn feedback into real results—this conversation delivers. Patrick and Evan walk through real-world examples, common pitfalls, and the steps to getting started, giving you a framework that can transform the way you lead and grow your companies.  Key Takeaways:  Why advisory boards often outperform masterminds and peer groups  How to know when your business is ready for a formal advisory board  The difference between strategic, customer, and project advisory boards  What to include in an effective advisory board charter  How to keep advisors engaged through structure, communication, and follow-up  Why diversity of thought is critical to getting better outcomes  How Board Stream helps entrepreneurs build advisory boards that work  Learn More About Evan:  Official Website  LinkedIn  Episode Resources:  Traction by Gino Wickman   EOS tools  BoardStream.ai Resources  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