Vital Strategies

What does it really take to build a business that not only thrives but runs without you? In this episode of the Vital Wealth Strategies Podcast, host Patrick Lonergan sits down with Pat Brennan, CEO and founder of Catalyze Growth Partners, to explore the keys to entrepreneurial success. Pat shares his inspiring journey—from getting fired to discovering he was meant to be an entrepreneur—and how he built a business that helps companies grow through a holistic approach to marketing, lead generation, and client acquisition.  Throughout the conversation, Pat reveals how to fail forward and adapt to an evolving market while staying true to your values. He explains why building trust, developing systems, and training the right team are essential for creating a business that works without you at the center. If you want to learn how to generate consistent leads, attract the right clients, and scale your business with purpose, this episode is packed with actionable insights you won’t want to miss.  Key Takeaways:  The power of "win or learn" thinking—how to embrace failure as part of the journey.  Why building trust and communicating your values is critical for attracting great clients.  How to create systems and processes that allow your business to run without you.  The importance of interviewing clients to guide your marketing strategy.  Practical strategies for adapting to market shifts and generating consistent leads.  Learn more about Pat:  LinkedIn  Website Waitlist Episode Resources:  vitalstrategies.com/tax They Ask, You Answer by Marcus Sheridan  Mainstreet Millionaire by Codie Sanchez  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     Audio, video, and show notes produced by Two Tone Creative  Research and copywriting by Victoria O'Brien 

What if scaling a business wasn’t about working harder but about leading smarter? In this episode of Vital Wealth Strategies, host Patrick Lonergan sits down with leadership expert and author Christian Muntean, who has helped businesses scale up over $500 million. Christian shares his powerful leadership framework, built from his experience in international disaster relief and personal fitness training, to help entrepreneurs develop healthy habits, intentional leadership, and a mindset for sustainable success.  Together, Patrick and Christian explore the biggest challenges leaders face, including self-doubt, delegation, and the hidden ceilings entrepreneurs place on themselves. They discuss how great leadership is about modeling the right behaviors, prioritizing what truly matters, and enabling teams to thrive. Listeners will gain actionable insights on how to work less, lead better, and build a business that scales efficiently—all while maintaining balance and avoiding burnout.  Key Takeaways:  Scaling a business isn’t about working more—it’s about leading more effectively.  Healthy habits and intentional leadership create long-term success.  Your values, attitudes, and beliefs shape your company culture.  Delegation and trust allow leaders to step back and focus on growth.  The right conversations with your team unlock new opportunities.  Proper rest, patience, and incremental gains are crucial for sustainable leadership.  Find out more about Christian:  Train to Lead by Christian Muntean  Free Assessment  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     Audio, video, and show notes produced by Two Tone Creative  Research and copywriting by Victoria O'Brien 

What if the key to better leadership, stronger teams, and smarter decision-making was hidden in understanding human behavior? In this episode of The Vital Wealth Strategies Podcast, host Patrick Lonergan sits down with Hugh Massie, Executive Chairman of DNA Behavior Solutions, to explore how behavioral profiling can transform the way entrepreneurs lead and scale their businesses.   Patrick and Hugh dive into the biggest challenges leaders face when managing people, the number one trait of successful entrepreneurs, and why reframing the way we think about money can have a massive impact on business growth. They also discuss practical strategies for building high-performing teams, improving communication, and creating a company culture where employees thrive. Whether you’re looking to strengthen your leadership, enhance your decision-making, or gain a competitive edge in business, this episode is packed with powerful insights you won’t want to miss.  Key Takeaways:  The #1 trait that sets successful entrepreneurs apart  How to understand and leverage behavioral insights in leadership  Why decision-making styles matter and how to navigate them  The impact of stress on communication and team dynamics  How to create a workplace culture that fosters growth and retention  Reframing your mindset around money for long-term success  Find out more about Hugh:  LinkedIn  DNA Behavior Official Website  Episode Resources:   Same as Ever: A Guide to What Never Changes by Morgan Housel  Soundtracks: The Surprising Solution to Overthinking by Jon Acuff  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     Audio, video, and show notes produced by Two Tone Creative  Research and copywriting by Victoria O'Brien 

In today’s episode of the Vital Wealth Strategies Podcast, we’re unlocking the secrets to using speaking engagements as a powerful tool to grow your business, attract your ideal clients, and elevate your brand. Whether you’re just starting out or looking to take your speaking career to the next level, this episode is packed with insights you won’t want to miss. Host, Patrick Lonergan, is joined by Laurie-Ann Murabito, a master speaking coach, bestselling author, and podcast host. Together, they dive into how to build a speech that resonates and how speaking can pull in the right clients for your business.  Laurie-Ann takes us behind the scenes of her journey from speaker to speech coach, sharing tips on how to create memorable presentations, the neuroscience of speaking with confidence, and how to leverage podcasting and live speaking to expand your reach. If you’re looking for a proven approach to building relationships, mastering the art of speaking, and standing out in your industry, this episode has everything you need.  Key Takeaways:  How speaking engagements can attract the perfect clients for your business.  Steps to build an effective and memorable speech.  The neuroscience behind speaking with confidence.  How podcasting and stage speaking complement each other.  Tips for expanding your speaking opportunities.    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     Audio, video, and show notes produced by Two Tone Creative  Research and copywriting by Victoria O'Brien 

Is your business prepared to weather unexpected risks, safeguard its reputation, and reduce its tax burden all at once?  Welcome to the Vital Wealth Strategies Podcast, where host Patrick Lonergan sits down with industry leaders to help entrepreneurs like you minimize taxes, master wealth, and optimize your life. In this episode, Patrick is joined by Van Carlson, the largest manager of 831(b) Captive Insurance plans in the country and a trusted expert in risk management and tax strategy. Together, they discuss how businesses can use risk financing to build reserves, protect their brand, and ensure long-term stability.  Van shares insights into how the 831(b) plan can be a game-changer for businesses, especially in uncertain times, by helping them retain and fund risk without draining operating capital. You’ll also hear real-world examples of how this strategy has helped companies survive—and thrive—through economic challenges, from the Great Recession to the COVID-19 pandemic. If you’re looking to safeguard your bottom line, optimize your wealth strategy, and ensure your business is protected against the unexpected, this episode is packed with actionable advice.  Key Takeaways:  How the 831(b) Captive Insurance plan works and why it’s an effective tool for businesses.  Strategies to manage risk and build financial reserves for long-term stability.  Why protecting your brand and reputation is critical for business success.  Real-world examples of businesses utilizing risk financing to thrive during economic uncertainty.  How to fund an 831(b) plan in challenging years without disrupting cash flow.  Common misconceptions about Captive Insurance plans—and why they’re often misunderstood.  Find Out More About Van:  SRA 831(b) 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     Audio, video, and show notes produced by Two Tone Creative  Research and copywriting by Victoria O'Brien 

What’s the secret to building a cohesive marketing strategy that truly works for your business? On this episode of the Vital Wealth Strategies Podcast, host Patrick Lonergan kicks off 2025 with a deep dive into marketing strategies for business owners looking to drive more revenue into their business. Patrick is joined by Jenny Cross, Founder and CEO of TwoTone Creative, a full-service marketing firm built on the principles of servant leadership and client-centered solutions. With a wealth of experience and actionable advice, Jenny shares her journey of growing her business, overcoming challenges, and helping others by answering their customers' questions with clear, effective marketing strategies.  In this conversation, Jenny and Patrick explore how business owners can connect the moving parts of their marketing efforts into one seamless approach. They discuss creating a strong company culture, using tools like the Entrepreneur Operating System (EOS) model to track KPIs, and the importance of transparency in marketing. Whether you're looking to refine your brand’s messaging, better understand your clients’ needs, or measure success effectively, this episode is packed with insights to help you take your business to the next level. Don’t miss Jenny’s tips on standing out in today’s crowded market and building a marketing strategy that drives real results.  Key Takeaways:  The importance of thinking about your client’s needs first through servant leadership.  How to connect all your marketing efforts into a cohesive strategy.  Why being clear and concise is essential for effective storytelling.  The role of transparency in building trust with your clients.  Leveraging the EOS model to track KPIs and measure success.  Building a strong company culture that supports your business goals.  Tips for standing out in a competitive marketplace.  Episode Resources:  Building a Story Brand by Donald Miller  They Ask, You Answer by Marcus Sheridan  Find Out More About Jenny:  TwoTone Creative 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     Audio, video, and show notes produced by Two Tone Creative  Research and copywriting by Victoria O'Brien 

Could a passive investment in a franchise be the most overlooked path to financial freedom and diversification? In this episode of the Vital Wealth Strategies Podcast, host Patrick Lonergan sits down with Kenny Rose, Founder and CEO of FranShares, to explore how entrepreneurs can passively invest in franchises to create diversified income streams. Kenny shares how FranShares connects investors with franchise opportunities and provides insights on what makes a franchise investment successful, including how to avoid bad deals and vet opportunities for strong returns.  This episode is packed with valuable takeaways on passive franchise investments, ROI, who is a good candidate to invest in a franchise, and how to build a diversified portfolio. Whether you're an accredited investor or just looking for alternative investment options, this conversation offers key insights into building long-term wealth.  Key Takeaways:  The benefits of passive income through franchise investments  How to evaluate and vet franchise opportunities  What to look for in a successful franchise investment  Understanding liquidity and expected hold periods  Diversifying your portfolio with alternative investments  Find Out More About Kenny Rose:  FranShares  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     Audio, video, and show notes produced by Two Tone Creative  Research and copywriting by Victoria O'Brien 

What if the key to unlocking massive growth in a business was stepping away from it? In this episode of the Vital Wealth Strategies Podcast, host Patrick Lonergan dives into the strategies successful entrepreneurs use to work on their business rather than just in it. As 2025 begins, this episode is packed with insights to help entrepreneurs step outside the daily grind, take a strategic look at their businesses, and set the foundation for a year of intentional growth. Whether feeling stuck or simply aiming to level up, this is an episode listeners can't afford to miss.  Listeners will learn how to create a powerful vision for the next 3-5 years, set SMART goals, and overcome limiting beliefs that hold them back. The episode also explores how to plan yearly, quarterly, and daily schedules effectively, while making time for hobbies and personal development to fuel creativity. Tune in to discover practical steps for building systems, evaluating business health, and achieving consistent forward progress.  Key Takeaways:  How to step back and strategically position your business for growth.  Planning frameworks for yearly, quarterly, and daily success.  The importance of vision, core values, and SMART goals.  Overcoming limiting beliefs to unlock potential.  Building systems and assessing business health.  Balancing work and hobbies to stay energized and creative.  Episode Resources:  Getting things done: Big Rocks and Little Rocks Priority Setting  7 Habits of Highly Effective People by Stephen Covey  12 Week Year by Brian P. Moran and Michael Lennington  Deep Work by Cal Newport  Essentialism by Greg McKeown  Traction by Gino Wickman  The Bible  Atlas of the Heart by Brené Brown   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     Audio, video, and show notes produced by Two Tone Creative  Research and copywriting by Victoria O'Brien 

Are you aligning your faith with your goals to build the life you truly want? In this special episode of the Vital Wealth Strategies Podcast, host Patrick Lonergan reflects on the intersection of faith, business, and personal growth. Sharing his journey of committing to a life guided by biblical scripture, Patrick introduces a framework centered around three essential steps—follow, believe, and obey—that not only deepen your spiritual life but also empower you to create your best life as an entrepreneur.   This episode challenges listeners to rethink the role of faith in their lives and businesses. Through thought-provoking perspectives, Patrick reveals why faith alone isn’t enough and how intentional effort and alignment with biblical principles can lead to a truly fulfilled and prosperous life.   Key Takeaways:  How following, believing, and obeying can transform your life and business.  Lessons from Jesus' life that apply to building resilience and purpose.  Why faith requires action to unlock your full potential and achieve lasting success.  A business owner’s perspective on integrating faith into creating your best life.  Powerful scriptures from the bible to guide your mindset and decision-making.  Episode Resources: The Bible with Nicky Gumbel Tara Lee Cobble Bible Study 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     Audio, video, and show notes produced by Two Tone Creative  Research and copywriting by Victoria O'Brien 

Are you struggling to see the returns you want from your marketing efforts? What’s the missing piece in your strategy? In this episode of the Vital Wealth Strategies Podcast, host Patrick Lonergan sits down with Borja Cuan, the founder of Four15 Digital, to discuss how businesses can evolve their marketing strategies to achieve real, measurable outcomes. Borja shares invaluable insights into the digital marketing world, from the importance of building deep client relationships to obsessing over retention and ensuring the customer experience evolves with your business. If you're ready to transform your marketing efforts, this conversation is a must-listen.  As the founder of Four15 Digital, Borja has successfully helped businesses scale through tailored digital marketing strategies that use advanced tools like media buying, tracking, and conversion optimization. Whether you’re a business owner looking to increase your marketing ROI or a marketer wanting to learn from the best, Borja’s actionable advice will set you on the path to success.  Key Takeaways:  The importance of building strong, lasting client relationships in digital marketing.  How obsessing over retention and evolving the client experience can lead to long-term success.  Why customizing strategies for each client is essential in achieving real outcomes.  The role of sophisticated tools like media buying and tracking in scaling a business.  How to drive conversions and maximize your marketing impact.  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     Audio, video, and show notes produced by Two Tone Creative  Research and copywriting by Victoria O'Brien