7 Figures Club: A Business Growth Podcast

Today's guest is Megan Schwan, the CEO and founder of her own accounting firm. Megan discovered her passion for accounting as a freshman in high school and landed her first accounting job at just 15 years old. She went on to graduate with honors with a Bachelor's in Accounting from a university in Virginia and now has over 15 years of professional experience. As a mother of four, Megan is deeply motivated by her family, which serves as the driving force behind her business. Megan founded her firm with a mission to change the face of accounting for small businesses. She believes that understanding your finances is like using a decoder ring; it contains all the information needed to answer the questions that will take your business to the next level. Her firm is more than just a bookkeeping and tax service—it's a partnership. Megan and her team are passionate about educating and supporting owners, empowering them to unlock their financial data and pave a clear path to success. As a certified financial professional and an experienced entrepreneur who bootstrapped her own business from the ground up, Megan knows exactly what it's like to navigate the challenges of life while building a dream. This unique perspective has allowed her to help thousands of owners bridge the gap between their numbers and their business goals. Megan is also deeply committed to her community through partnerships with several business development organizations and local chambers. For More Info: https://Sidekick-Accounting.com

In this episode, we're pulling back the curtain on how we built our funding empire from the ground up, starting with simple, local networking. I remember walking into my first Chamber of Commerce event and feeling totally out of my league. My biggest fear was seeing business bankers there—I thought they were my competition! But I quickly discovered a secret mindset that changed everything. Find out how we turned these bankers into an incredible source of referrals who were thrilled to send their declined clients our way. The best part about these strategies is that they don't have to cost a fortune. We found a free online platform just packed with local business owners who all needed one thing: funding. We even taught this strategy to one of our partners, and the results were absolutely mind-blowing. Want to know how he started generating dozens of high-quality leads in just a few weeks without spending a dime? We'll break down his exact, super-simple process. Finally, we reveal the one networking strategy that can be a bit of a grind, but the payoff is huge. It involves a weekly commitment and a small investment, but it forces you to become a master connector and perfect your elevator pitch. We’ll share how joining this one type of group led to a massive return on a tiny investment and can help you build relationships that send business your way on autopilot. Listen in to learn all three of our foundational networking secrets! For More Info: https://MyFundingMachine.com Email: info@7figures.com

We all dream of building our own funding empires, but there's one giant wall that stops almost everyone dead in their tracks: getting a consistent flow of quality leads. It can be the most frustrating part of the business. But what if I told you the problem isn't your strategy, but your mindset? In this episode, I’m breaking down the one thing all the greats—from Rockefeller and Carnegie to the billionaires of today—understood about getting their name out there. It’s about being bold and unapologetic about the value you provide. You’ll hear a story about two of our partners who landed new business just by having a conversation over lunch. Find out the simple mental switch you need to flip to start attracting opportunities everywhere you go. When it comes to lead generation, I see two main paths you can take. While one involves paying for ads, the other is a powerful, no-cost strategy that completely transformed our business. We used this exact method to sign up 400 referral partners in our first year, which has now grown to over 12,000 partners sending us thousands of leads every month. You’ll have to listen to find out how we did it, and how you can start building your own lead-generating machine today. For More Info: https://MyFundingMachine.com Email: info@7figures.com

Building an empire can be an incredibly lonely job. I know exactly what it’s like to be in the trenches, fighting battles and facing a constant barrage of problems. It’s easy to lose hope. But what if I told you there’s a way to get a complete paradigm shift by putting yourself in the right room? In this episode, I’m talking about the unbelievable power of live events. They are the secret sauce that connects you with other like-minded risk-takers and can absolutely change your life. It’s how I got to meet some of my biggest heroes and mentors. I've had some wild experiences on this journey, from hanging out backstage with Patrick Bet-David to having Gary Vaynerchuk drop an F-bomb on me in front of thousands. We even got to work with titans like Grant Cardone. But it wasn't all glamorous. We made some expensive mistakes. Listen in to find out why paying a hefty $10,000 sponsorship fee can be a complete disaster and learn the crucial lesson we discovered that turned these events into a massive win for us every single time. I’m ready to share the powerful strategy we now use to partner with major events and get on stage, often without paying a single dollar in fees. You’ll also hear the story of how I was told I had only three minutes to speak to a room of 500 entrepreneurs. Find out exactly what I did with just a business credit card and a QR code to capture the entire room's attention. See why this simple, 3-minute pitch was so effective that it had people flocking to our booth for days. The most amazing part is that the biggest opportunities often come from where you least expect them. In the episode, you’ll discover how one event that I considered a total business failure actually led to an unexpected, seven-figure revenue stream from a source I never saw coming. It's a wild story that proves you have to show up. Tune in to learn how you can use these same principles to get reborn, find your own paradigm shift, and build your funding empire. For More Info: https://MyFundingMachine.com Email: info@7figures.com

In this episode, we're diving deep into the core principles required to build a 7-figure funding business. It’s a goal many of you have, but the hard truth is that less than 5% of funding professionals ever reach that level. I’ve done it multiple times, but my path to success was paved with some catastrophic failures that almost ended my career before it truly began. I thought I had it all figured out in my 20s. I built a multiple 7-figure mortgage business from the ground up, only to watch it all crumble during the 2008 recession. I lost everything. Instead of fighting back, I became someone I didn’t recognize: a whiner, a complainer, someone who blamed the world for my problems. I was at rock bottom for three long years, stuck in a cycle of negativity. How do you pull yourself out of a nosedive like that when you’ve become your own worst enemy? It all changed when I made a conscious decision to adopt one powerful, life-altering principle: to be unreasonably optimistic in the face of adversity. This isn’t about naive positivity; it's a strategic weapon. I’ll share the story of a client who was just moments away from quitting on his dream, needing $30,000 but ready to stop after a single decline. What I told him in that moment not only saved his business but is something you can use on your very next sales call. I’m revealing the three toxic habits I eliminated that completely transformed my results and the simple, daily practice I use to recenter myself when challenges feel overwhelming. This is the key to winning when adversity inevitably strikes. Are you ready to learn how to master it? For More Info: https://MyFundingMachine.com Email: info@7figures.com

What is the one thing that separates a six-figure business from a true seven-figure funding empire? In this episode, we reveal that the answer isn't a complex strategy or a secret funding source—it's leadership. If you feel like you're stuck in the trenches, forever working in your business instead of on it, this is for you. We break down the critical leap from being a skilled solo operator to becoming the leader of a real team. So many entrepreneurs get trapped doing the $15-an-hour tasks, like chasing down clients for paperwork or fixing tech issues, because the thought of hiring is terrifying. We get it. The idea of taking on payroll, setting up a W2 employee, and trusting someone with your business can feel like a massive risk. But if you never make that jump, you don't have a business; you have a high-stress job that owns you. So, what is the very first hire you must make to break this cycle, and how do you overcome the mental tug-of-war that holds you back? Once you have that first person, who comes next? We'll tell you the exact roles you need to fill to scale effectively, including the one type of sales professional you should look for that most people overlook. But simply hiring people isn't enough. To prevent your business from looking successful on the outside while crumbling on the inside—a painful lesson we learned firsthand—you need a powerful foundation. We'll explain how to establish the core values, principles, and vision that will attract and motivate a team of A-players. Ultimately, this is about building a machine that runs without you. It’s about creating systems, leveraging technology, and forging strategic partnerships that deliver a flood of leads every single month. We discuss how to build a business that not only produces massive cash flow but also gives you the ultimate reward: the freedom to do what you want, when you want, with whomever you want. What is the key to creating that kind of leverage and finally achieving true freedom? Listen to the full episode to find out. For More Info: https://MyFundingMachine.com Email: info@7figures.com

Have you ever wondered what the number one secret is for building an incredibly valuable business? There's a specific business model that creates exceptional profits and predictable cash flow, making a company a truly sellable asset. Without this key ingredient, you might be working much harder for much less. So, what is this powerful strategy that can transform a struggling business into a financial success story? In this episode, we reveal how we had to learn this lesson the hard way. After looking at our own company, we realized it was missing this critical component for long-term value. This led us on a journey to create something new: an automated system that completely revolutionized our industry. The "machine" we built now takes a process that used to last 45 minutes and shrinks it down to just two, helping our clients build seven-figure businesses of their own. But we didn't stop there. After creating that first tool, we developed a second one to solve another massive problem for small business owners. Now, we’re showing our own community how they can use our platforms to generate massive recurring revenue for themselves. To discover exactly what we built and how you can apply the same principles to your own business for more cash and less stress, you'll have to tune in. For More Info: https://MyFundingMachine.com Email: info@7figures.com

In a special announcement, Leo reveals the new, hyper-focused mission for the 7 Figures Club that will change the show forever. To launch this new chapter, he shares a surprisingly personal story about failure, fluency, and finance. What could learning Portuguese in the streets of Brazil, or Spanish in Chile, possibly have to do with closing million-dollar funding deals? The answer is not what you think, and it contains the blueprint for your success. Leo explains why the skills he learned as a struggling "gringo" in South America are the same ones that separate average loan brokers from 7-figure funding CEOs. Are you caught in "analysis paralysis," studying endlessly but afraid to take the next step? This episode exposes a dangerous plateau where most entrepreneurs get stuck, believing they're "good enough" while their true potential withers. Leo reveals the one "maniacal obsession" required to break free, but it's a commitment most aren't willing to make. Listen now to discover why the most effective business-building strategy feels a lot like looking like a fool, and how the moments you feel most lost might be the clearest sign that you're finally on the right track. For More Info: https://MyFundingMachine.com Email: info@7figures.com

Hi everyone, this is Leo Kanell. As we approach our 300th episode here at the 7 Figures Club, I've been doing a lot of thinking. We've helped thousands of entrepreneurs secure hundreds of millions in funding, but I've realized we're just scratching the surface. I saw a huge group of small business owners and gig workers who still weren't getting the help they needed. To solve this, I'm making a major pivot—one that will change everything about how we operate. I knew that just hiring more people wasn't the answer. So, I’ve developed a completely new approach to our business that will allow us to have a much bigger impact. It’s a model that will empower a whole new group of professionals to achieve seven-figure success while helping more entrepreneurs than ever. In this episode, I'll explain exactly what this new structure looks like and how you can be a part of it. To make this all possible, we've been building some game-changing technology in the background, including our secret weapon that we call the "Funding Machine." The way it transforms the funding process is something you have to hear to believe. I'll be breaking down how these tools work and what it means for the future of the industry. This also marks a new chapter for the podcast. I’ll be bringing on industry titans to share strategies you won't hear anywhere else, and I'll also be getting more personal than ever before. If you want to know how we're going to revolutionize the funding world and how you can build your own seven-figure empire using our new playbook, you won't want to miss this episode.

Chris Shihadeh, born and raised in Scottsdale, Arizona, is a successful businessman and the founder of several profitable companies, including a marketing agency, sales contact centers, and online retail businesses. He is a graduate of California State University, Fullerton. Currently, Mr. Shihadeh is the President of Skylab Digital, a leading company in digital marketing and lead generation. His team specializes in creating internal advertisements on popular platforms such as Facebook, YouTube, Google, and TikTok. These efforts generate hundreds of daily calls for their clients. A proven entrepreneur, he leads his team of media buying experts at Skylab Digital to specialize in lead generation for the Medicare and insurance industries. They currently produce over 7,500 inbound calls for many of the largest insurance companies in the nation. Mr. Shihadeh has been featured on the Affiliate Marketing Show and has earned recognition on the Inc. 5000 list. His company, Skylab Digital, was also nominated for Pay-Per-Call Company of the Year, showcasing his significant expertise and impact in the performance marketing field. He is known for combining data-driven strategies with creative approaches to achieve measurable results for his clients. For More Info: https://skylabdigital.com/ chris@skylabdigital.com

Stephen Ridley comes from a small village in South Yorkshire, England, with a population of just 40 people. He began playing the piano at the tender age of two. Following the death of his father when he was a teenager, his family was plunged into deep poverty, a circumstance that profoundly shaped his drive. Despite these challenges, he excelled academically, graduating from Durham University with a triple first-class honors degree in Philosophy, Politics, and Economics. This led to a prestigious and financially rewarding job at a world-renowned investment bank. However, the security of his banking career came at a great personal cost, leaving him feeling numb and miserable. In a defining moment of clarity, he walked out of his job for good. Just 30 minutes later, he bought a £100 piano from a thrift store, pulled it onto a London street, and began to play. The spontaneous performance drew smiling crowds, and for the first time in years, he felt a sense of joy and purpose. This single act of rebellion launched an incredible international music career. Ridley went from playing on the street to performing in over 60 countries. His unique journey has seen him play for world leaders, at exclusive events like the Monaco Grand Prix, and alongside A-list artists on superyachts and in palaces. He has also shared his music in children's hospitals, orphanages, and shanty towns, and performed at the largest outdoor concert in Uzbekistan's history. Beyond his live performances, Stephen is passionate about making music accessible to everyone. He founded an online piano academy to help students worldwide experience the power and joy of music. Translating his passion into a thriving enterprise, his courses have generated over $60 million in sales, empowering countless others to find their own connection to the piano. For More Info: https://RidleyAcademy.com https://instagram.com/stephenridley/

Chris Prefontaine is the Founder and Chairman of Smart Real Estate Coach®, a four-time best-selling author, a Forbes Business Council Member, and a three-time Inc. 5000 honoree for the fastest-growing company. With over 30 years in the real estate industry, his experience is extensive, from building over 100 single-family homes in the 1990s to owning a Realty Executives franchise. Today, his family-owned business, based in Newport, RI, consistently acquires 4 to 10 properties monthly and has engineered over $75 million in transactions. Having weathered significant challenges, including the 2008 crash, 9/11, and the COVID-19 pandemic, Chris has re-engineered his business to be resilient in any economic climate. This firsthand experience in navigating turbulent markets informs his unique coaching philosophy. He is passionate about helping dedicated individuals become "Wicked Smart" real estate investors, providing them with proven strategies to build wealth and avoid the common pitfalls he has seen so many others make. His podcast, the Smart Real Estate Coach® Podcast, is a testament to his influence, ranking in the top 0.5% globally. What truly sets Chris apart is his hands-on, in-the-trenches approach to mentorship. Frustrated by the lack of genuine support in the industry, he and his family team work directly alongside their partners, offering the collective wisdom of their entire family-owned operation. He has coached over 30,000 people across North America, focusing on practical application rather than just theory. Chris and his wife of 37 years, Kim, have successfully integrated their adult children, Nick and Kayla, into the family business, embodying the legacy and collaborative spirit he extends to his students. For More Info: https://wickedsmartbooks.com/leo3/ https://qlslive.com/

Dave Seymour is a highly respected real estate investor and a 16-year veteran of the Fire Service. He launched his real estate career during the last market crash, quickly becoming one of the nation's top investors with expertise in residential and commercial properties, particularly in commercial multi-family and ground-up development. His straightforward approach and remarkable success caught the attention of the A&E network, where he starred in the hit series "Flipping Boston." The show's popularity, which broke rating records for the network, established him as a recognizable expert and sought-after mentor in the real estate world. This platform led to appearances on major news outlets like CBS, ABC, CNBC, and FOX News. Known for his no-nonsense style and intolerance for inefficiency, Dave has guided both accredited investors on their first deals and large firms through complex transactions. He is the driving force behind Freedom Venture Investments, where he continues to lead his team and partners on various investment ventures, including current developments in Florida. His unwavering commitment to success makes him a trusted advisor for those looking to invest in real estate. For More Info: https://www.freedomventure.com/ https://legacyalliance.club/

This episode pulls back the curtain on how individuals can earn significant commissions, like $22,000 and even $35,000, from a single business funding deal. We dive deep into the "anatomy" of these highly profitable transactions, revealing that most high-value deals don't just appear out of thin air—they overwhelmingly originate from referrals. This means building strong relationships with those who regularly interact with businesses needing capital is absolutely key. The episode illustrates this with two compelling case studies. First, Nate, a long-time member of the organization, secured a remarkable $35,000 commission on a single deal. His success stemmed from a referral partner who was a business consultant. This partner had seen the organization's funded clients and content, recognizing the value they provided. Similarly, Ryan, another funding machine owner, recently closed a deal for $22,000 by leveraging a referral from an SBA lender who couldn't fulfill a client's needs due to tax issues, despite the client being highly profitable. Both examples underscore a critical framework: find a solid referral partner with excellent clients, possess the funding knowledge to identify the most suitable lender, and meticulously ensure the client meets all qualification criteria. This includes reviewing business bank statements, tax returns, time in business, and assessing industry risk. While not every deal yields such massive returns, these success stories highlight the immense potential within the business funding space. The episode also touches on the unique advantage of startup funding, particularly its 0% interest benefit. For those curious about harnessing this marketplace and the established system, MyFundingMachine.com is offered as a resource. There, you can explore testimonials and a demo video to see how this approach could help you build your own funding empire. For More Info: https://www.myfundingmachine.com/

This podcast episode explains why the business funding industry is considered recession-proof, thriving in both good and bad economic times. During good times, businesses grow and need capital for expansion (new employees, bigger offices, equipment, marketing). During bad times, businesses need funding to survive. Leo argues that even if lenders tighten up (as seen in 2008-2009), they still lend because it's their business model, though they might be more selective. The episode further suggests that focusing on new and small businesses (startups) is even more recession-proof. This is because large businesses might struggle to qualify if their financials worsen, while startups with good credit can often still access funding (e.g., $25k-$150k). Leo highlights a large market of 30 million small business owners and 70 million gig workers often ignored by traditional banks, presenting a significant opportunity. For More Info: https://www.myfundingmachine.com/

This podcast episode dives into how much loan brokers earn, a frequent question for those looking to boost their income or start a new business. Leo Kanell, an entrepreneur who built three multi-seven-figure businesses, shares secrets, strategies, and tactics for success, emphasizing that anyone can create their dream business. He shares personal case studies, including an early deal that netted $25,000, and a recent example from a colleague who made $22,000 on a single deal. Leo also discusses the shift in his own business to focus on startup funding, which proved to be a game-changer, leading to a $40,000 month and eventually a $100,000 month within seven months. He highlights the vast opportunity in funding startups and small businesses, as banks often overlook them. The episode introduces the "Funding Machine," a system developed over a decade to help small business owners and startups secure 0% interest funding. Listeners interested in seeing a demo of this system can access it through a provided link. The core message is that loan brokers can do very well by helping small business owners, provided they have the right system. For More Info: https://www.myfundingmachine.com/

Meet Ken Cox, the accomplished President of Hostirian and the voice behind the popular Clicks and Bricks podcast, voted the #1 General Business Podcast by the Davey Awards. Ken's journey is a testament to resilience and the power of entrepreneurship, built on a foundation of creating secure digital environments and fostering positive workplaces for companies from small businesses to the Global 500. His commitment extends beyond technology and business operations. Ken is also the author of Reclaim Sobriety: The 12 Rounds of Sobriety, a guide forged from his own experiences overcoming significant personal challenges, including a difficult childhood and a battle with addiction that led to liver failure. This deeply personal journey, marked by early exposure to difficult environments and finding crucial mentorship in small business owners, fuels his passion for helping others navigate adversity. Ken's expertise spans vital areas like digital privacy, informed by his work developing tools to demystify complex privacy policies, and modern HR strategies. He co-authored a chapter in Kevin Harrington's Many Paths to Profit, further solidifying his place as a recognized figure in the business world. Through the Clicks and Bricks podcast, Ken shares authentic stories and provides practical insights for CEOs, CTOs, founders, IT directors, and CFOs. His unique blend of business acumen, hard-won wisdom, and dedication to trading value for value makes him a compelling guest with valuable lessons for navigating today's complex business landscape. Get ready to learn from Ken's experiences and actionable advice. For More Info: https://kencox.com/

Rick Yvanovich is a Certified Chief Master Coach, speaker, author, advisor, consultant, and non-executive director. He is dedicated to helping individuals and teams unlock their full potential, guiding them to break free from what's holding them back. Rick focuses on equipping people with the clarity, confidence, and tools necessary to overcome obstacles and achieve balanced fulfilment in both their professional and personal lives. This interview specifically explores how getting unstuck now can enable listeners to realize the significant impact they can make. Drawing on over 40 years of experience, Rick's background spans a diverse range of industries, including retail, brewing, defense manufacturing, real estate, and oil & gas. His career has taken him across the globe, having worked in the UK, China, Singapore, Switzerland, and now residing in both Switzerland and Vietnam. This extensive international exposure, collaborating with clients in over 80 countries, provides him with a wealth of cross-cultural insight that informs his unique approach. He is also the founder and leader of TRG, where he integrates his deep expertise in accounting, IT, and talent management. As an insightful author, Rick penned Business As Unusual (BAUU) and has co-authored multiple bestsellers, sharing transformative insights for personal and professional growth. His engaging style extends to his speaking, where he delivers fun and imaginative experiences filled with creative analogies and interactive activities designed to inspire. Through his coaching and educational masterclasses, Rick provides practical strategies and guidance, committed to fostering growth and helping individuals and teams navigate challenges to achieve their desired outcomes and a state of balanced fulfilment. For More Info: https://RickYvanovich.com

William Milliken is the President and visionary behind Swoop Scoop®, a leading dog waste removal company. Under his leadership, Swoop Scoop® has grown to serve over 2,000 recurring clients, setting industry standards in service excellence and customer satisfaction. Driven by a passion for innovation and business growth, William has successfully navigated the challenges of the industry. He leverages advanced strategies in Google Ads, SEO, and business development to ensure Swoop Scoop® provides unparalleled value to its clients. Beyond his role at Swoop Scoop®, William is dedicated to empowering other entrepreneurs in the pet waste removal industry. He is the founder of the dynamic Poop Scoop Millionaire™ Community on Skool, a platform offering comprehensive resources, live trainings, and expert guidance to help business owners achieve success. He also shares practical tips and insights through his blog, Scoop Start™. With a strong focus on collaboration and knowledge sharing, William is committed to elevating the entire industry. He fosters an environment where professionals can connect, learn, and grow together. For More Info: https://www.youtube.com/@Scoop-Start https://www.skool.com/poop-scoop-millionaire/about

Meet Jesse Kay, the Founder and CEO of Vyber Media. His performance marketing agency focuses squarely on helping brands achieve scalable, data-driven growth that genuinely connects with the Gen Z audience. What began as a side project when Jesse was just 17 years old quickly blossomed. Recognizing the venture's potential, he made the significant decision to leave a role at Goldman Sachs and pour all his energy into building Vyber Media. Today, Vyber Media collaborates with a wide spectrum of companies, ranging from ambitious high-growth startups to established Fortune 500 giants. The agency utilizes a strategic mix of email, SMS, paid marketing, and targeted media strategies to drive high-margin revenue growth and elevate brand engagement across diverse industries. Beyond the agency world, Jesse is no stranger to the microphone. He's hosted a podcast for nearly a decade, featuring insightful interviews with high-profile guests like Jack Dorsey, Mark Cuban, Gary Vaynerchuk, Leslie Berland, and Candace Parker, delving into their journeys and expertise. Jesse's drive also extends to making a difference. During the COVID-19 pandemic, he co-founded the Makin’ Lemonade Fund. This initiative successfully mobilized over 400 students, impressively raising $130,000 in only 45 days to support vital nonprofit organizations during a critical time. His work and perspectives have garnered significant attention, with features in prestigious outlets such as The Wall Street Journal, ESPN, Adobe, Fast Company, Inc., Business Insider, and an appearance on the Dr. Phil Show. Jesse's approach is partly shaped by his education at Cornell University, where he studied Persuasion and Social Influence. This academic background provides a unique lens through which he views marketing and entrepreneurship, particularly in understanding the nuances of connecting with younger generations. Vyber Media was founded to redefine performance marketing, rooted in ambition, digital understanding, and delivering impactful results. For More Info: https://www.vybermedia.com/