Faces of Finance

Join host Shawnna Weber, CEO of Edgewood Business Solutions, as she brings you business finance focused interviews with people from all walks of life. Shawnna started Edgewood in order to collaborate with entrepreneurs and small business owners in the pursuit of financial security and profitability. Over the years, she has worked with businesses large and small and picked up lessons from them all - which she is now happily sharing on Faces of Finance. The show’s guests will alternate between execs from Edgewood and leaders from various industries - doctors, dancers, designers and more! Shawnna, her team, and guests will share their stories and tips, giving you a backstage pass into the world of business finance. In this episode: The way you approach your finances affects how you make financial decisions and can strongly impact your ability to achieve your goals. People who have a scarcity mindset find themselves focusing on never having enough money. Five tips to help you move forward with the positive money mindset. If you have a bookkeeper or accountant, you should ask them to help you understand your numbers. Knowing your numbers helps you make decisions to achieve your goals, both for business and from your business into your personal life. Changing your money mindset will change the way you approach financial decisions. Books I recommend: Abundance Code by Julie Ann Cairns The Money Mindset Book by Evan S Piper

Shawnna and Katie discuss the advantages and disadvantages that can come with having your bookkeeper and CPA in the same firm or hiring them separately, plus the questions you should be asking your bookkeeper and CPA during the hiring process. In this episode: The advantages and disadvantages of hiring a bookkeeper and CPA in the same firm The advantages and disadvantages of hiring a bookkeeper and CPA in separate firms Pertinent questions to ask when hiring a bookkeeper and CPA Find out what your bookkeeper and your CPA wished you would tell them The importance of communication with your bookkeeper and CPA Questions to Ask Your Bookkeeper: You should ask them to provide references from clients and CPA’s they work with and then make sure that you reach out to them. You should ask about their fees if they charge by the hour. Can they give you an estimate? Will they be making a commitment to a length of service? Do they have experience during bookkeeping for this specific industry you are in? Are you a solo bookkeeping firm or do you have other employees who will handle my data? How will we communicate? Email, phone call, text? How often should I expect to hear from you? Will it be on a weekly basis, monthly or quarterly? Will you provide strategies to me based on what you see in my books? What are your expectations of my communication and timing to provide requested information? Is the software that I'm using okay with best practices and what are your technical skills? Will your firm be providing the work directly or outsourcing?  Questions to ask a your CPA: What services do you offer and what are the fees you want to learn about their firm? How often do you meet with your clients? Is your tax style aggressive or more conservative?  Will you be preparing the return or overseeing the work of your team? Can you help me with tax resolution matters? What software do you support? Will you be working directly with my bookkeeper? What can you advise me on besides my taxes? (loans, business structure, manage cash flow more effectively) Can you represent me in all the states my company does business?  What else do I need to know but didn't ask? Visit our website at www.edgysolutions.com 

In this episode, Shawnna talks with Dr. Jessica Louie, founder of Clarify Simplify Align and creator of The Burnout Doctor Podcast. Dr. Louie specializes in helping burned out pharmacists escape a state of being overwhelmed in order to live with less clutter and more energy. Utilizing her healthcare background, she coaches clients through emotionally difficult decisions and provides them with information on how to organize their mental space, physical space, and finances. In this episode: Discover the difference between being stressed out vs. being burned out Learn 3 classic signs of burnout  Receive tips on healthy coping mechanisms  Hear how burnout not only costs you but those around you as well Gain insight into Dr. Louie’s Clarify, Simplify, Align method and framework Find out why you should align work into your life instead of the other way around Learn how to set up healthy boundaries Resources:  Dr. Jessica Louie, PharmD, APh, BCCCP is the founder of Clarify Simplify Align and the creator of The Burnout Doctor Podcast where she helps burned out pharmacists get out of overwhelm and guides them into living with less clutter and more energy. She knows how it feels to live a life in a state of overwhelm without clear goals or purpose. Fortunately, she was saved by decluttering and simplifying her life. She has a simple framework – Clarify. Simplify. Align – to help you go from cluttered and stressed to leading with confidence and curating a life you love!  Visit: www.edgysolutions.com   Disclaimer: This podcast discussion is for informational purposes only and not for the purpose of providing medical,  legal or financial advice. You should contact your doctor, attorney or financial advisor to obtain advice with respect to any particular issue or problem.

In this episode, Shawnna talks with Susan Hill, Esq., founding and managing attorney at Hill Law Offices, PC. They delve into Susan’s experience and provide an overview of estate planning. Susan is a solo practitioner and practices in five areas of probate: wills and trusts, estate planning, probate, trust administration, plus conservatorships and guardianships. She helps families and individuals prepare for their futures, which include both the known and unknown. Susan believes everyone should be aware and informed of the legal issues involved in their own matters as all fundamental decisions should be well thought out. As such, in her role as attorney, Susan educates and guides her clients on essential matters so they can make their own well-informed decisions.  Even though it can be an uncomfortable topic for some, estate planning is crucial in order to ensure that your wishes are honored when you're no longer able to state what your wishes are. In this episode: Why it is so important to set up an estate plan. What makes up an estate. Discover the different estate planning options and the difference between a trust and a will. Does one need both? Distributing trust assets to a beneficiary on a specified timeline. Some people with young children may not want their children to have access to all of their money and assets when they turn 18. Advice for those who are unsure who to name as their executor or whom to name as beneficiaries. What happens in the event of death, or incapacitation from serious injury, when someone has no estate plan in place: what happens to the assets, who makes the decisions, and what the process looks like. How often you should review your estate plan.  Resources:  Susan is the president & principal attorney at Hill Law Offices, PC. She is a Certified Specialist in Estate Planning, Probate and Trust Law by the State Bar of California Board of Legal Specialization. She enjoys volunteering her time with various organizations, and giving back to the community. She currently serves as a delegate with the Conference of California Bar Associations, working to improve the laws through legislation, and volunteers on the Incapacity subcommittee of Trust and Estates Section (TEXCOM) of the California Lawyers Association (formerly of the State Bar of CA). Susan participates as an Arbitrator on the Sacramento County Bar Association (SCBA) Fee Arbitration Panel. She served on the Board of Directors for the SCBA for three years, the Board of Directors for Women Lawyers of Sacramento for six years, and the Board for the SCBA Probate and Estate Planning Section for four years, including one year as the Chair. She previously participated on a radio show as the panelist specializing in Estate Planning, and as a volunteer attorney for the Senior Legal Hotline in Sacramento where she helped seniors with a variety of legal issues. Contact: info@hlo-pc.com  Disclaimer: This podcast discussion is for informational purposes only and not for the purpose of providing medical,  legal or financial advice. You should contact your doctor, attorney or financial advisor to obtain advice with respect to any particular issue or problem. Visit: www.edgysolutions.com

In this episode, Shawnna is joined by Certified Nutritionist and author Julie Hefner to discuss healthy habits that we can all incorporate into our lives to elevate our wellness. Self-care is essential for business owners' mental and physical health, especially right now during COVID-19. It's crucial to take care of your mental and physical health so that you may, in turn, serve others as a business owner yourself. Julie offers great advice on how business owners can take care of their own health with proven tactics.  In this episode: The importance of getting enough sleep every night  Ways to stay accountable when incorporating a new healthy habit How to start and stick to a meal prepping plan  Not all vitamins are of high quality and/or healthy for you Services Julie Hefner offers to her clients Disclaimer: This podcast discussion is for informational purposes only and not for the purpose of providing medical,  legal or financial advice. You should contact your doctor, attorney or financial advisor to obtain advice with respect to any particular issue or problem. Visit: www.edgysolutions.com About Julie Hefner: Julie Hefner is a Certified Nutritionist in Newport Beach specializing in one-on-one personalized support for all nutritional needs. At Nourish Nutrition and Health Julie has been helping people achieve their fitness goals based on “real life” meal plans that will suit any busy schedule. Her programs are not about quick fixes, but true lifestyle changes that will provide life-long results. After struggling with allergies her whole life, Julie learned how to adjust her diet and eat clean. By simply eating better, she was able to make her immune system stronger and improve her overall quality of life. She is now extremely passionate about helping others overcome their personal health struggles and live a more fulfilling life. A proud mother of three children, Julie understands that life can sometimes get in the way of her clients’ nutritional goals. However she is able to relate people on any level and truly hold them accountable. Her personalized approach is the secret to the success of each and every client.Nourish Nutrition and HealthInstagram @nourish_nutritionNourishing Your Body and Soul for a More Radiant You Giveaway! Free 30 minute phone session for any of your listeners. 949-345-5885  Giveaway! 5 signed copies of Nourishing Your Body & Soul for a More Radiant You, for more information on how to enter, visit Edgewood’s Instagram page @edgysolutions Visit: www.edgysolutions.com

In this episode, Shawnna interviews executive coach, speaker, and workshop facilitator, Rhonda Peterson, ACC. Rhonda works with people in the financial services industry such as accountants, CPAs, bankers, and financial planners to help them improve their approach in leading their team. When working with leaders, one of the paramount exercises Rhonda believes in is an energy audit. An energy audit breaks down what projects or tasks your time is going to, then categorizes which tasks are energizing and which are draining. Leaders and employees are most efficient when working on tasks that energize them, where tasks that drain may take three times as long to complete! Tune in to learn other ways Rhonda helps leaders improve their team’s work flow and efficiency.  In this episode: An executive coach helps leaders prioritize where they feel they need to go and puts together a plan to get them to that next level. Leaders need to do an energy audit. Then they need their team to do the same. If everyone on a team is doing things that energize them, the leader will no longer be in a position of constantly putting out fires. Leaders should delegate appropriately so that they have time to focus on forward-thinking and leading. Repeat the energy audit every 6 months to see if you are reaching your goals.  Disclaimer: This podcast discussion is for informational purposes only and not for the purpose of providing medical,  legal or financial advice. You should contact your doctor, attorney or financial advisor to obtain advice with respect to any particular issue or problem. Visit: www.edgysolutions.com About Rhonda Peterson: Rhonda received her certification in Executive and Professional Coaching from the University of Texas at Dallas in 2011. As an executive coach, speaker, and workshop facilitator, she works with financial service professionals to help them become the effective leader their organization needs. Clients hire Rhonda to help them uncover their leadership strengths and lean into them for more energy and motivation -- so they can feel confident that their work will provide a return, even when it is not reflected in the short-term bottom line. LinkedInWebsite Podcast Prosper - A Master Class for Leaders

In this episode, Shawnna interviews Ally MacWilliams, a graphic designer who specializes in brand design and marketing. Ally explains that branding isn't just a logo; it helps a business stand out and reach their target audience. While most business owners do not have a clear idea of the branding they want for their business, Ally says that it's just a matter of doing some discovery exercises. Tune in as Ally explains branding, brand boards, why authenticity is essential, and the pitfalls of social media marketing. In this episode: Branding is so much more than a logo – branding encompasses your company’s message, customer service, and all other visuals.  Developing a sense of trust is the way to engage with your customers.  Building Pinterest boards can be a useful tool to discover the feel of branding that is right for your business.  Brand boards are valuable tools for cohesiveness and consistency. Brand reviews should be done periodically. You can implement simple changes, like changing the colors of your logo depending on the season. Find out who your ideal client is and create your brand image around them.  Disclaimer: This podcast discussion is for informational purposes only and not for the purpose of providing medical, legal or financial advice. You should contact your doctor, attorney or financial advisor to obtain advice with respect to any particular issue or problem. Visit: www.edgysolutions.com About Ally MacWilliams: Ally MacWilliams is a graphic designer specializing in helping companies bring their brands to life by creating their visuals including logos, business cards, marketing collateral and more. Her past as a stationery designer gave her a love of typography and print design, which are elements she uses heavily in her current role as a brand designer. Ally loves to tackle various project types and loves working with all, but nothing inspires her more than getting to work with female owned businesses! LinkedIn AllyMacDesigns.com Instagram: @allymacdesigns

In this episode, Shawnna interviews Ojesa Asejo-Clark, a recruiting manager for Robert Half Finance & Accounting, the world’s first and largest specialized financial recruitment firm. Ojesa places finance and accounting professionals with companies throughout the Central Valley. She explains how employers can pick the right recruiter for their business and what employers should do when they find the right fit. Listen in as Ojesa gives tips for both candidates and employers to ensure successful recruitment. She also describes how to compose a proper job description and what the recruitment landscape looks like during COVID-19. In this episode: Employers should be open-minded and flexible.   If your recruiter finds the right candidate, you should act fast. Recruiters strive to find the perfect match for both candidates and employers.  Prioritize the job description – focus on the five or six most crucial skills.  Employers (and candidates) should utilize resources, like the Robert Half Salary Guide, to determine a competitive salary.  Disclaimer: This podcast discussion is for informational purposes only and not for the purpose of providing medical, legal, or financial advice. You should contact your doctor, attorney, or financial advisor to obtain advice with respect to any particular issue or problem. About Ojesa Asejo-Clark: Ojesa Asejo-Clark is a recruiting manager for Robert Half Finance & Accounting, the world’s first and largest specialized financial recruitment firm. In her role, Ojesa places highly skilled finance and accounting professionals with companies throughout the Central Valley. Before joining Robert Half in 2017, Ojesa cultivated 20 years of experience in various leadership roles at financial institutions such as Bank of the West, Oak Valley Community Bank, and Rabobank. LinkedIn: Ojesa Asejo-Clark www.roberthalf.com/salary-guide   Visit: www.edgysolutions.com

In this episode, Shawnna interviews a broker for office property leasing and sales in the Central Valley at Colliers International, Erica Frey. When deciding between leasing and buying, Erica says it comes down to your business model. For small businesses, when lease rates are high, it may be better to acquire the property. Erica then explains the process of property acquisitions and how not every transaction will be the same. It can vary between a matter of days to years. However, Erica reveals the general steps that take place to complete a transaction. Later, Erica explains what a business owner needs to know before looking into commercial real estate.  In this episode: The decision to buy or lease will depend on your business model.  Sometimes, owning real estate will not be possible; it will depend on your numbers – every situation is unique.  Every property acquisition transaction is different; it could take seven days or two to three years. A residential purchase is much more emotional, whereas commercial purchases always come down to the numbers - an office will be one of the most significant expenses for business owners.  As long as the buyer occupies more than 51% of the property, SBA financing is a great opportunity. Disclaimer: This podcast discussion is for informational purposes only and not for the purpose of providing medical, legal or financial advice. You should contact your doctor, attorney or financial advisor to obtain advice with respect to any particular issue or problem. Visit: www.edgysolutions.com About Erica Frey: Erica Frey has the select distinction of being named the broker for office property leasing and sales in the Central Valley at Colliers International. She is a graduate of Pepperdine University, where she received a BA in Public Relations. Immediately after graduation, she launched her real estate career in Beverly Hills, leasing and selling residential properties. In 2012, she joined CBRE, Inc. in the Stockton Office managing the marketing, account communications, and coordinating all elements of commercial office real estate consultation services and transactions.  She has experience in Landlord and Tenant Representation, Seller and Buyer Representation, and Build-to-Suit lease transactions. She is known as the go-to Office Broker for commercial office space in the Central Valley: commercial office property in Lodi, commercial office property in Stockton, and commercial office property in Tracy, commercial office property in Modesto; She services the Central Valley Regions North of Lodi, California, to South of Modesto, California, to West of Tracy, California and East of San Andreas, California.  Her core values are integrity, honesty, and unparalleled work ethic. She is dedicated to providing clients with the most up-to-date information on the state of the market and its trends giving them a realistic outlook on what they can expect to achieve in today’s market. Colliers International LinkedIn Visit: www.edgysolutions.com

In this episode, Shawnna interviews Systems Administrator and IT Consultant, Rick Shingu. Rick helps businesses discover their true potential by finding ways to apply IT systems that make them more productive and proactive. First, Rick explains why he prefers a cloud-based system over an on-premise system. Rick talks about how a cloud-based system will allow for consistent and automatic maintenance, promotes remote work, and has a generally low start-up cost for smaller companies. Rick also offers advice to business owners on how hiring a specialized IT consultant can set their company up for success. Stay tuned as Rick reveals what questions companies should be asking their IT department. Highlights: Comparison and analysis of cloud-based systems vs. on-premise systems. Advice for businesses that are looking to transition to a cloud-based system. Things to know and do before moving to a cloud-based system to avoid issues. Why hiring a specialized IT consultant can help set your company up for success.  Maintenance suggestions and software update timing. How COVID-19 has changed technology needs. About Rick Shingu: Rick Shingu has expertise in IT support, IT infrastructure, and IT services. He has a passion for technology and was always the go-to person for tech within his family when growing up. Rick graduated from California State University, Monterey Bay with a Bachelor’s in Computer Science and Information Technology with an emphasis in Network and Security. He gained further valuable experience while running an IT department for an international food and beverage company. With this experience, he saw the potential and power for IT within a corporation, so he started his own IT consulting business. He recently relocated to the Los Angeles area and works with Clinical IT Systems, focusing on compliance-based applications and hardware. Rick works to help businesses discover their true potential by finding ways to apply IT systems that make them more productive and proactive. His experience pushes him to apply the most recent technologies for automation and compliance. LinkedIn Disclaimer: This podcast discussion is for informational purposes only and not for the purpose of providing medical,  legal or financial advice. You should contact your doctor, attorney or financial advisor to obtain advice with respect to any particular issue or problem. Visit: www.edgysolutions.com

In this episode, Shawnna interviews Michelle A. Miller, a Business Development Manager for American Express. Michelle helps businesses navigate which American Express credit card to select and guides clients through the application process and the best utilization of their credit card. She gives us tips for businesses that are looking for a credit card company to collaborate with for their business needs. She talks about the full suite of business and corporate offerings and then walks us through the onboarding process for new clients. Michelle also explains what makes American Express unique. Highlights: Getting the most out of your business expenses Why you shouldn’t use a personal card for business expenses Tips on finding a credit card company to collaborate with for your specific needs American Express is unique because they work directly with the merchants and suppliers to onboard them American Express provides regular updates and education to business and corporate card customers so that they can continue to really focus on running their business. Suggestions on how often you should meet with your Manager of Business Development About Michelle A. Miller: Michelle Miller is a Manager of Business Development with American Express. She works with various businesses and corporations in the San Francisco East Bay with revenues up to $300M and educates them on how they can leverage American Express solutions to maximize cash flow, earn rich rewards, and streamline their payment processes to ultimately fuel the growth of their companies. She is passionate about putting the customer first and always excited to learn about new businesses. Before joining American Express, Michelle spent 10 years supporting Fortune 500 tech companies with their digital marketing campaigns at Google. Connect with Michelle on LinkedIn or through Edgewood Business Solutions if you’d like to explore a business card solution with American Express. Disclaimer: This podcast discussion is for informational purposes only and not for the purpose of providing medical,  legal or financial advice. You should contact your doctor, attorney or financial advisor to obtain advice with respect to any particular issue or problem. Visit: www.edgysolutions.com

In this episode, Shawnna interviews Zack Leland and Lisa Fortenbaugh. Zack is a Commercial Insurance Producer at PIASC Insurance Services based out of Commerce, CA. Lisa is the Founder and CEO of Platinum HR Consulting Group. First up, Zack explains the benefits behind employment practices liability insurance (EPLI). The panel explores insurance coverage for wrongful termination, sexual harassment, discrimination, and emotional distress.  Lisa and Zack also explain workers’ compensation, the importance of safety training, and why your HR consultant should be collaborating with your insurance brokers. Highlights: EPLI policies can help protect the business in the event of wrongful termination, sexual harassment, discrimination, and emotional distress cases. Employers need to be proactive in avoiding the risk of any legal actions with HR compliance and combining with the right insurance coverage A discussion on at-will employment and wrongful termination.  Possible coverage exclusions on different EPLI policies. Wages and hours worked are the most common exclusion.  Who you are more likely to be sued by: your own employee or a customer or vendor.  Safety training and preventing injuries in an office environment. How workers’ compensation is a no-fault system of insurance.  About Zack Leland: Zack Leland was born and raised in Santa Cruz, CA.  After attending California Polytechnic State University, San Luis Obispo and majoring in Biochemistry, he relocated to Orange County, CA. He is licensed in property and casualty insurance with a sole focus on business insurance. He has held many different positions in the insurance industry including account manager, sales manager, wholesale insurance, and producer. His specialties include harder to place workers’ comp accounts, including construction, logistics, and temporary staffing agencies. His current position is Commercial Insurance Producer at PIASC Insurance Services which is based in Commerce, CA. LinkedIn PIASC Insurance Services StaffingInsure About Lisa Fortenbaugh, MS, SPHR: Lisa Fortenbaugh is the Founder and CEO of Platinum HR Consulting Group. Lisa possesses over twenty-five years of comprehensive national and international Human Resource experience. She holds a Master’s degree in Human Resource Management from Chapman University, a Bachelor’s degree in Psychology, and maintains the Senior Professional in Human Resources (SPHR) Certification from the Society for Human Resource Management. Lisa believes that the most important resource in a company is its “Human Resource”. After over two decades managing Human Resources for organizations of different sizes, Lisa knew there was a need for small businesses to have access to the same HR expertise that large corporations have. Lisa founded Platinum HR Consulting Group with one main goal, to offer customized HR solutions for small businesses.  LinkedIn Email: lisa@platinumhrcg.com About Platinum HR: Platinum HR is a strategic partner providing custom Human Resource business solutions to help clients attract, support, develop, and retain a competitive workforce and achieve their business objectives. They develop client-focused partnerships and innovative solutions. Each solution is different and may include items such as: an HR Assessment, Employee Handbook, monthly HR support, customized onsite training, review of the hiring process, performance management, compensation, etc. While each roadmap created is different, the end result is the same; a customized solution that increases productivity, profitability, employee engagement and legal compliance. These results create the competitive advantage that a company needs to compete in their respective market.  Website Disclaimer: This podcast discussion is for informational purposes only and not for the purpose of providing medical,  legal, or financial advice. You should contact your doctor, attorney, or financial advisor to obtain advice with respect to any particular issue or problem. Visit: www.edgysolutions.com

Shawnna interviews Edgewood Business Solutions accounting executives Linda Welk, Katie Petty, and Deepa Mackrani on their tips and strategies to implement into year-end planning. First up, Linda explains why your accounts receivable detail report is so important and why you should review it before the end of the year. Learn about best practices for paying vendors, updating inventory, and recording home office expenses. Since people are working out of their homes more than ever due to COVID, Katie reminds us that home expenses are often overlooked and explores some of your options. Whether you're an entrepreneur, small business owner, or aspiring to be one - Edgewood is here to help. Highlights: If you are using the accounts payable as an accrual basis tax filer, ensure that invoices received from vendors are input using the date of the invoice. Consider paying for bills due in January before year-end. Always request a W9 from your vendors before paying them. When in doubt, collect a W9. If your inventory software and accounting software are not connected, update your inventory monthly to ensure proper accounting. Review your books for any outstanding checks or transactions that have not cleared and are over 30 days old. Home office expenses.  Mileage reimbursement. Compliance Issues. Insurance Coverage. Disclaimer: This podcast discussion is for informational purposes only and not for the purpose of providing medical, legal, or financial advice. You should contact your doctor, attorney, or financial advisor to obtain advice with respect to any particular issue or problem. Visit: www.edgysolutions.com

Many aspects of our family life intersect with our finances. A topic that comes up frequently is planning for our child's college education, both financially and being accepted into a college of choice. That's why we are lucky to have Liz Murphy, the Founder, and Owner of Liz Murphy College Advising, join the show. First, Liz explains why high school students need to start their college research during junior year. If you're confused about the application process, there are many benefits of collaborating with a college advisor. Tune in as Liz reveals the steps that parents should take to prepare for college financially, and she gives application tips for financial aid. Highlights: The best way to keep costs low for college is by attending in-state public universities.  Look for universities that are going to offer students significant institutional aid through need-based aid or merit awards.  Leave your car at home; it can add to your expenses while at college.  The most significant benefit of working with a college advisor is that they can save you money and time. About Liz Murphy:  Liz Murphy: Founder/Owner, Liz Murphy College Advising As an independent college consultant and a graduate of the UC Berkeley College Admissions and Career Planning program, I have successfully guided high school students on their college admission journeys for over eight years. In addition, I provide pro bono services to low-income and first-generation students. I was a parent leader in public and private education for fifteen years worked in the public health field for over ten years and taught high school biology and chemistry in the Peace Corps in Kenya. I bring significant experience in communication, research, and project management to my personalized college consulting practice. I am particularly interested in helping students pursue higher education in STEM and assisting students in applying to the University of California system.  I survived the college admission process with my own children, who graduated from Gonzaga University (2015) and UC Berkeley (2017). Every year I tour dozens of colleges and universities throughout the United States; attend professional conferences, college fairs, and workshops; and network with fellow professionals in the field. I keep up-to-date on changes and developments in the world of higher education in order to best inform and guide my students and families. Website LinkedIn Disclaimer: This podcast discussion is for informational purposes only and not for the purpose of providing medical,  legal, or financial advice. You should contact your doctor, attorney, or financial advisor to obtain advice with respect to any particular issue or problem. Visit: www.edgysolutions.com

Tommy Mello is the founder of A1 Garage Doors, a $50 million-plus home service business with over 360 employees in 19 states. Tommy speaks about the inspiration behind his company, and gives tips for people who are establishing their businesses. We uncover the steps you need to take when expanding and how you can strategize your company’s growth. Tune in as we talk about standing out from your competition, and Tommy gives even more informative advice for business owners. IN THIS EPISODE: [01:25] The inspiration behind Tommy’s business, A1 Garage Doors.  [07:30] When establishing your business, Tommy reveals some of the key elements you need to keep in mind.  [10:45] The first steps you need to take when expanding your business.  [17:00] How Tommy strategized to accommodate the growth of his business.  [29:30] Tommy reveals how to stand out from the competition.  [35:00] Tommy’s final advice for business owners.  KEY TAKEAWAYS: Knowing what your numbers are will help propel your business in the way you intend it to go.  Employees are everything when it comes to the client experience. Customers are a one-time deal, and clients are an ongoing relationship. Figure out how to turn your customers into clients.  When starting a business, pretend you're going to start a franchise; always intend to scale. QUOTES: “Go find a business you love and get involved with that business.” - Tommy Mello “Some people say they want to be well rounded. That's the biggest mistake you could make.” - Tommy Mello LINKS MENTIONED: Website: https://homeserviceexpert.com/ Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/asktommy/ Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/thomasmello/ & https://www.facebook.com/groups/2732901080161138/ LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/tommymello/ BOOKS MENTIONED: The E-Myth Revisited: Why Most Small Businesses Don't Work and What to Do About It by Michael E. Gerber The Ultimate Sales Machine: Turbocharge Your Business with Relentless Focus on 12 Key Strategies by Chet Holmes The Richest Man in Babylon by George Samuel Clason Rich Dad Poor Dad: What the Rich Teach Their Kids About Money That the Poor and Middle Class Do Not! Mass Market by Robert T. Kiyosaki Home Service Millionaire: How I Went from $50,000 in Debt to a $30 Million+ Business in Seven Years by Tommy Mello Go for No! Yes is the Destination, No is How You Get There by Richard Fenton, Andrea Waltz Creating Competitive Advantage: Give Customers a Reason to Choose You Over Your Competitors by Jaynie L. Smith Raving Fans by Ken Blanchard Influence by Robert B Cialdini BIO: Tommy Mello is the founder of A1 Garage Doors, a $50 million-plus home service business with over 360 employees in 17 states. He shares what he's learned at Homeservicesexpert.com to help fellow business owners grow their businesses.

Insurance is much more than a “necessary evil'' for your business. On this episode of Faces of Finance, host Shawnna Weber is joined by Meredith Messenger, an Operations and Risk Management Consultant and Founder & CEO of InsureGood. She joins our host to chat all about her experience in the insurance and risk management industry. Tune in to hear more about selecting your insurance provider, scaling risk management to businesses, and ways of systematically identifying, evaluating, and mitigating the negative impact of risk on you and your business. Highlights:  [02:15] Meredith describes scaling risk management for businesses.  [08:30] Cyber liability and risk for businesses.  [19:53] Tips on selecting your insurance provider.  [29:00] How business can be more cost-effective.  [36:38] Red flags to pay attention to in business. About Meredith Messenger: Meredith Messenger is the go-to Operations and Risk Management Consultant for rapidly growing businesses. She is the perfect partner for visionary C.E.O.s; acting as their second brain and extension of their team, her firm works with leaders to quickly optimize operations, increase profitability, and reduce risks. Meredith has spent almost two decades in various roles in the risk management and insurance industries and holds several advanced designations. She has held consulting and executive leadership roles with teams ranging from 3 to 25+ in several Fortune 100 firms. In addition, she has worked with hundreds of small businesses, helping them scale profitability. In 2020, Meredith founded InsureGood – a risk management firm that combines traditional, time-tested operational strategies and risk management with insurance expertise to position businesses for success while providing opportunities for underrepresented populations in the insurance industry. She serves on several boards, including the Connecticut Independent Agents & Brokers Association.  Meredith speaks regularly on stages of all sizes on topics related to business success including Leadership, Equity Diversity and Inclusion, Operations, and Risk Management. Social Links: Insure Good Insure Good on LinkedIn Insure Good on IG Insure Good on Facebook Quotes: “As business leaders, we're constantly navigating the business landscape to minimize the negative impacts of risk while bringing out the potential for the rewards involved in the risks that we take as business owners.” - Meredith Messenger “Insurance really is a tool for you to manage your finances and your cash flow more effectively.” - Meredith Messenger Disclaimer: This podcast discussion is for informational purposes only and not for the purpose of providing medical,  legal or financial advice. You should contact your doctor, attorney or financial advisor to obtain advice with respect to any particular issue or problem. Visit: www.edgysolutions.com