What happens when you ignore the IRS? Spoiler: It only gets worse. In this episode of the Vital Strategies Podcast, I sit down with tax resolution expert and IRS Enrolled Agent, Carlos Samaniego, to uncover the often overlooked but critical issue of unresolved tax debt. Carlos, founder of Tax Debt Consultants LLC, dives into his personal journey about ignoring the IRS and how facing his own problems head-on ultimately led him to help others in similar situations. This episode is packed with must-know insights on how to resolve major tax issues and become compliant before things spiral out of control.  Carlos walks us through the process of fixing previous mistakes, explains what the government is really looking for, and offers tips on negotiating payment plans. We discuss the dangers of ignoring tax debt—such as liens, garnishments, and increasing penalties—and the best ways to stop accumulating interest. From what to do with CP 504 letters and IRS Letter 11 to exploring offers in compromise, this episode offers actionable advice for anyone needing to get back on track with their taxes.  Key Takeaways:  How to resolve past tax mistakes: Carlos explains the steps to fixing unfiled tax returns, becoming compliant, and what the IRS is really looking for.  The dangers of inaction: We discuss the serious consequences of ignoring tax debt, including liens, garnishments, and compounding interest.  Negotiating with the IRS: Learn how to set up payment plans, reduce penalties, and explore options like offers in compromise to stop the bleeding.  Facing problems head-on: Carlos shares his personal story of avoiding the IRS and how confronting these issues can lead to long-term financial freedom.  Guest Information: Carlos Samaniego books and contact 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 

Do you know what’s stopping your business from hitting the next level? In this episode of the Vital Strategies Podcast, we’re tackling one of the biggest frustrations for business owners: hitting a plateau and not knowing how to break through. If you’ve ever wondered why your business isn’t reaching that next milestone, this conversation with Nolan Bradbury, founder of Bradfield Accounting and Advisory, is for you.  Nolan dives into the common barriers that keep businesses from scaling and introduces the Rule of 3 and 10—a game-changing concept that explains why what worked to get you this far won’t take you any further. He also shares the power of good data, explaining how understanding your financials on a deeper level can highlight what’s working and what’s not, so you can take decisive action.  Key Takeaways:  Scaling requires new strategies: What got you here won’t get you to the next milestone—understand the Rule of 3 and 10 to break through business plateaus.  Data-driven decisions are essential: Good data reveals what’s working and what’s not, enabling smarter, faster growth.  Upgrade your finance team as you grow: Learn when to move from a bookkeeper to a CFO to support your scaling business.  Outsourcing can reclaim your time: Build your own "family office" to streamline your finances and focus on big-picture growth.  Delegate wisely: Know when and what to delegate, especially the key operational tasks that drive long-term success.  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 Podcast Abundance    Research and copywriting by Victoria O'Brien 

In this episode of the Vital Strategies Podcast, I’m joined by Andrew Ronchetto to explore how improving employee wellness can drive productivity and boost your bottom line. Did you know companies are losing up to a trillion dollars annually due to lack of productivity? What if the solution lies in something as simple as taking better care of your team?  Andrew shares insights on the 8 Dimensions of Health, how incremental changes lead to long-term success, and the power of disconnecting to enhance performance. We also dive into capability building, coaching, and the role leaders play in amplifying human potential.  Tune in for actionable insights on how improving employee wellness can amplify human performance and ultimately benefit your bottom line.  Key Takeaways:  Companies lose up to $1 trillion annually from poor productivity linked to employee wellness.  The 8 Dimensions of Health improve well-being and boost performance.  Small, consistent wellness changes lead to long-term productivity gains.  Taking time to disconnect can increase focus and efficiency.  Leaders struggle with collaboration when wellness isn’t prioritized.  Coaching and capability building are key to improving team performance.  Better employee wellness directly boosts productivity and business results.  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 Podcast Abundance    Research and copywriting by Victoria O'Brien 

What’s the secret to building enterprise value that lasts beyond you, the owner? In this episode of the Vital Strategies Podcast, host Patrick Lonergan sits down with Pete Worrell, author of Enterprise Value and a leading figure in the entrepreneurial community. Pete specializes in helping entrepreneurs increase the value of their companies by focusing on the critical elements of strategy, culture, and mindset.   Throughout the episode, Pete discusses the importance of leading your business as if you’ll run it forever—even if a sale is in the future. He also dives into the “four hats” that every entrepreneur must wear to drive enterprise value and why incentivizing the management team to invest in the company's future can lead to significant growth. Stay to the end to learn how you can get a free copy of Pete’s book sent directly to your doorstep.  Key Takeaways:  How to build enterprise value by focusing on strategy, culture, and mindset.  Why you should lead your business as if you’ll run it forever—even if you plan to sell.  The importance of involving your management team in the company’s future to fuel growth.  The four hats every entrepreneur must wear to drive value.  Episode Resources:  Enterprise Value – Pete Worrell  Flourish by Martin E. P. Seligman   Be Your Future Self by Now Dr. Benjamin Hardy   Anti-Fragile by Nassim Nicholas Taleb   Guest Information: Pete Worrell contact: Peter R. Worrell - Bigelow LLC. 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 Podcast Abundance    Research and copywriting by Victoria O'Brien 

How to Crack the Tax Code: The Tax Goddess on Cutting Taxes and Building Empires  What if you could cut your tax rate to 6.92%—or even lower? In this episode of the Vital Strategies Podcast, host Patrick Lonergan is joined by tax expert Shauna Wekherlien, founder of Tax Goddess Business Services. With over $1.57 billion in tax savings for her clients and a jaw-dropping 6.92% annual tax rate, Shauna shares her unique strategies for driving down taxes, building wealth, and optimizing cash flow.  Shauna reveals how business owners, investors, and entrepreneurs can utilize advanced financial tools like captive insurance, premium financing, and infinite banking to significantly reduce taxes. She also talks about empire-building and how to keep wealth in the family through FLPs and private foundations.  Whether you’re looking to drive down your tax rate, maximize your wealth-building potential, or simply gain better control of your finances, Shauna’s insights will leave you with actionable strategies to achieve your financial goals.  Key Takeaways:  How to create more cash flow to build wealth or live your ideal lifestyle.  The secret behind how to build a strategy to get to a 6.92% tax rate and how you can apply similar strategies.  The power of leveraging tax efficient tools like premium financing, infinite banking, and triple dipping to get maximum tax efficiency  The importance of involving your entire financial team to achieve massive tax savings.    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 Podcast Abundance    Research and copywriting by Victoria O'Brien 

Is your business set up for long-term success, or are you just chasing short-term wins? In this episode of the Vital Strategies Podcast, host Patrick Lonergan sits down with Sal Marino, who has worn many executive level hats from operations to sales at Charles IT. We explore the fundamental strategies that have fueled the company’s consistent 20-30% year-over-year growth. Sal shares insights on how building a strong foundation and focusing on leadership alignment are key to long-term success.  Together, Patrick and Sal discuss the importance of creating a culture of operational excellence, pushing for growth while forecasting the future, and setting goals that drive the company forward. Sal also breaks down his unique approach to problem-solving, building high-performing teams, and ensuring that financial strategies align with business goals.  Stay tuned to the end for actionable tips on how to leverage assets, optimize cash flow, and develop a strategy that fuels both personal and professional growth.  Key Takeaways:  Achieving 30% year-over-year growth requires a strong foundation and aligned leadership.  Building a thriving company culture starts at the top and impacts every level of the business.  Operational efficiency means being unafraid to fail, tweak, and change as needed.  Setting clear, strategic goals and breaking them down into manageable tasks leads to long-term success.  A 'work hard, play hard' culture fosters motivation and engagement within teams.  Financial forecasting is essential to ensure cash flow aligns with future business needs and growth.  Client satisfaction must be prioritized by deeply caring about their success and delivering tailored solutions.  Stress, when managed well, can be a driver of growth and personal fulfillment.  Having a clear strategy and understanding where you want to go helps ensure your assets and resources are leveraged for continued growth.  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 Collective Research and copywriting by Victoria O'Brien 

Mark Cox, a leading expert in sales strategy and founder of In the Funnel Sales Coaching, shares his insights on achieving sales success. He emphasizes the importance of mastering three critical elements: a strong business foundation, an elite sales team, and a winning sales playbook. Discover the five essential traits of top sales performers and why a 'Learn It All' mentality is vital. Mark also discusses the role of empathy in the buyer's journey and transforming sales professionals into trusted consultants.

What’s the key to driving revenue in today’s rapidly evolving market? In the latest episode of the Vital Strategies Podcast, host, Patrick Lonergan sits down with one of the most dynamic and forward-thinking business owners. Eddie Maalouf isn't afraid to take bold steps, measure outcomes, and iterate quickly—traits that have propelled business success across multiple sectors, from brick-and-mortar to eCommerce and coaching.  They discussed the distinct strategies needed for different types of products and how marketing must constantly evolve to stay effective. You'll gain insights into how to keep your finger on the pulse of what's working in marketing, understand the line of diminishing returns, and learn why a strong brand can make or break a business. If you're looking to refine your marketing strategy or simply want to hear from a seasoned expert, this episode is packed with actionable wisdom that you won’t want to miss.  Key Takeaways:  Marketing as the Growth Engine: Understand why marketing is the cornerstone of revenue generation and how it fuels business growth.  Adapting to Change: Learn how to keep your marketing strategies relevant in a constantly evolving marketplace.  Tailored Approaches: Discover the different marketing strategies needed for brick-and-mortar, eCommerce, and coaching/info product businesses.  Generating and Capturing Attention: Explore effective ways to generate attention and interest in your product, focusing on underpriced attention and high-impact platforms like Instagram and Facebook.  Brand Perception: Grasp the importance of brand perception and how it influences customer engagement and loyalty.  Managing Marginal Returns: Get insights into the concept of diminishing returns in marketing investments and how to maximize the impact of your budget.  Successful Campaigns: Hear examples of successful marketing campaigns and the key elements that made them stand out.  Building a Strong Brand: Learn the essentials of creating a brand that resonates with your target audience and stands out in a competitive market. 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 Podcast Abundance    Research and copywriting by Victoria O'Brien   

Oil and gas investments could unlock powerful cash flow and tax benefits for your portfolio! Patrick Lonergan sits down with Matthew Iak, Executive Vice President of U.S. Energy Development Corporation, to dive into the world of oil and gas investments and the unique opportunities they offer. With over $1.6 billion in capital raised under his leadership, Matthew shares invaluable insights that could significantly impact your investment strategy.  We explore everything from the mechanics of investing in oil and gas to the issues that you can encounter with this asset class. We also look at the risks, like dry wells, and how political and economic shifts, including the rise of electric vehicles, could affect your returns. You'll also discover the powerful tax advantages that come with these investments, including deductions related to intangible drilling costs, depletion allowances, and more. This episode is packed with actionable information that could help you optimize your investments and minimize your tax burden.   Key Takeaways:  Understanding Oil & Gas Investments: Learn how investing in multiple wells can diversify your portfolio and provide consistent cash flow.  Tax Advantages: Discover the significant tax benefits available, including deductions for intangible drilling costs and depletion allowances.  Political and Economic Impact: Explore how shifts in government policies and the rise of electric vehicles might influence the oil and gas industry.  Investment Strategies: Gain insights into advanced strategies like 1031 exchanges, Qualified Opportunity Zones, and how to leverage oil and gas for a Roth conversion.  Risk Management: Understand the potential risks, such as dry wells, and how to mitigate them in your investment approach.  Maximizing Returns: Learn how to optimize your investments to achieve real returns in the oil and gas sector.  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 Podcast Abundance    Research and copywriting by Victoria O'Brien 

Have you ever wondered how digital companies can stay financially strong while adapting to a fully remote environment? In this episode of the Vital Strategies Podcast, host Patrick Lonergan is joined by Jody Grunden, an expert in financial management. Jody shares insights from his books "Digital Dollars and Cents" and "Building the Virtual CFO Firm in the Cloud." We discuss essential financial strategies that work for any business, emphasizing the importance of forecasting, understanding key performance levers like Utilization and Effective Rate, and managing the revenue pipeline. His practical advice makes complex financial concepts accessible for entrepreneurs at any level.  Grunden also explores the transition to a virtual CFO firm, highlighting how his own firm grew by leveraging digital tools and remote work setups. He shares key strategies for maintaining financial health, such as keeping 10% of annual revenue in reserve, using dynamic forecasting, and focusing on results-driven culture. This episode offers valuable tips for entrepreneurs looking to thrive in a digital and remote business environment.  Key Takeaways:  Financial Management for Entrepreneurs: Importance of forecasting, identifying key performance levers, and understanding the revenue pipeline.  Accessible Financial Concepts: Grunden simplifies complex financial strategies, making them accessible for entrepreneurs at any level.  Transitioning to a Virtual Firm: Insights on how to successfully move a firm to a fully virtual environment using digital tools and remote work setups.  Maintaining Financial Health: Strategies include keeping 10% of revenue in reserve, separating tax figures, and ensuring at least two payrolls are covered at all times.  Dynamic Forecasting: Emphasis on the value of using dynamic forecasting and accurate pipeline metrics to guide decision-making.  Results-Driven Culture: Importance of fostering a culture focused on results to drive business success.  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 Podcast Abundance    Research and copywriting by Victoria O'Brien