Vital Strategies

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 

Could the key to your next big win be hidden in the language you use during negotiations?  In today’s episode of the Vital Strategies Podcast, we dig deep into the art of negotiation, uncovering strategies that have contributed to over $100 million in successful real estate and business deals. We break down the four essential components of crafting a powerful offer and the importance of asking the right questions, create time pressure, and use key language to gain influence in any negotiation.  We also discuss subtle techniques that can significantly impact your negotiation outcomes. Discover how to skillfully lower the price without offending the other party and effectively handle common objections. This episode is packed with actionable insights that will leave you equipped to navigate negotiations with confidence and achieve the best possible outcomes.  Key Takeaways:  Master the Four Key Components of an Offer: Learn how to build relationships, create win-win agreements, and identify the true motivations behind any deal.  Formulate Powerful Questions: Discover the importance of asking the right questions, including the strategic use of "why" to uncover hidden needs.  Use Confusion to Your Advantage: Understand how acting confused can be a powerful tool to shift negotiations in your favor.  Apply Time Pressure Effectively: Leverage timing as a crucial factor to drive decisions and close deals faster.  Strategically Handle Financial Details: Learn why it's advantageous to avoid proposing financial details early on and how to approach them when necessary.  Softly Lower Prices: Explore subtle techniques for reducing prices without damaging the relationship or the deal.  Recognize and Address Common Objections: Equip yourself with strategies to effectively counter objections and keep the negotiation on track.  Implement the 3 R's: Realistic expectations, applying a range, and involving a broker or realtor (or business broker) can significantly impact the negotiation process.    Episode Resources:  Never Split the Difference - Chris Voss and Tahl Raz Getting to Yes - Roger Fisher and William L. Ury Influence the Psychology of Persuasion - Robert B Cialdini, PhD 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 Are the Secrets to Ultimate Health and Wellness? Dive into this special collaborative episode of the Vital Strategies Podcast where we bring together the wisdom and experiences of four incredible guest experts, each sharing their unique perspectives on health and wellness. This episode is packed with actionable insights and transformative ideas that will help you take your well-being to the next level.  Featuring:  Claire Darr: The Power of One Decision  Dr. McCoy: Your First Steps to Wellness  David Greer: Overcoming Poor Habits and Finding Fulfillment  Amanda Asay: Mastering Mental Health  This episode is more than just a discussion; it's a roadmap to a healthier, more fulfilling life. Whether you're struggling with poor habits, seeking better mental health, or looking to optimize your fitness and wellness routines, our experts have got you covered. Don't miss out on these life-changing insights – your journey to wellness starts here!  Key Takeaways:  Transformative Decision: Learn the one commitment that can revolutionize your life, as shared by Claire Darr.  Morning Routines: Discover the secrets to creating effective and energizing morning routines.  Human First Approach: Explore Dr. McCoy's holistic 'Human First' approach to health and wellness.  Nutrition and Fitness: Get insights on proper nutrition, balanced fitness regimens, and the importance of recovery and sleep.  Overcoming Addiction: Hear David Greer's journey of battling alcoholism and the importance of admitting you have a problem.  Mental Health: Understand mental health, brain function, and finding true fulfillment through accountability.  Self-Assessments and Coping: Learn from Amanda Asay about self-assessments for mental health, healthy coping mechanisms, and the value of trusted confidants.  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 

Curious about which business entity is right for you? In this episode of the Vital Strategies Podcast, host Patrick Lonergan digs deep into the intricacies of entity selection for entrepreneurs. The episode covers the essential types of business entities, including sole proprietorships, partnerships, LLCs, corporations (both C-corp and S-corp elections), and co-ops. Patrick highlights the flexibility of LLCs, his personal favorite, and explores the benefits and liabilities associated with each entity type. The discussion provides a comprehensive guide on how to set up these entities, emphasizing the importance of choosing a structure that best suits individual business needs.  Listen all the way to the end to gain valuable insights into the tax classifications and requirements that must be met, along with what the IRS scrutinizes in each entity. Patrick also explains how combining different entities can create a robust structure tailored to specific business goals. This episode is a must-listen for any entrepreneur looking to make informed decisions about their business structure, ensuring both legal protection and tax efficiency. Tune in to equip yourself with the knowledge to choose the best entity for your venture and maximize your business potential.  Key Takeaways:  Types of Business Entities: Overview of sole proprietorships, partnerships, LLCs, C-corporations, S-corporations, and co-ops.  Flexibility of LLCs: Highlighting LLCs as a favorite due to their flexibility.  Liability Considerations: Understanding the liabilities associated with each entity type.  Setting Up Entities: Step-by-step guide on how to set up different business entities.  Benefits of Each Entity: Detailed benefits and advantages of each business structure.  Combining Entities: Exploring how combinations of different entities can create a tailored structure.  Tax Classifications: Insight into various tax classifications and implications for each entity type.  IRS Requirements: Key requirements and what the IRS looks for in each business entity.  Choosing the Right Structure: Tips on creating the best structure to suit individual business needs and goals.  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 

If you are curious how to have 150 days (about 5 months) a year off from work and still see exponential business and personal growth you are in for a treat. Steven shares his perspectives about the secrets behind building a championship team and empowering people to reach their full potential.  In this episode of the Vital Strategies Podcast, host Patrick Lonergan is joined by the multi-talented Steven Neuner. Steven is not only the co-founder of Superpowers, a successful virtual assistant service, but also the co-hosts of “The Next Level Show” podcast.   Steven shared his strategic approach to building championship teams, emphasizing the importance of empowering people, delegating effectively, and providing opportunities for financial peace. His philosophy revolves around giving people a platform to realize their full potential and creating systems that work seamlessly. He candidly discussed his journey from feeling "not good enough" to achieving personal redemption through faith, coaching, and hard work.   Steven’s insights into not just running a successful business but also living a fulfilling life left us with much to ponder. Tune in to this episode to hear Steven Neuner’s inspiring journey and gain valuable insights into balancing entrepreneurial success with personal fulfillment.   Key Takeaways:  Growth Mindset: Influenced by the Strategic Coach program as both a student and a coach. Championship Team Building: Focused on creating high performing teams and empowering team members through delegation. Strategic Leadership: Highlights the significance of being a systems thinker and a proactive leader. Embracing Free Days: 150 free days a year, completely unplugged from work, to rejuvenate and have vitality to create a high value life. Community and Personal Life: The importance of community and the influence of the five closest people around you. Balancing entrepreneurial success with a fulfilling personal life rooted in faith and family. Philosophy and Personal Development: Continuous personal growth and redemption through faith, coaching, and hard work. As well as the importance of character and values in business and personal life.  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