Business Lunch

In This Episode of Business Lunch: Roland Frasier and Ryan Deiss discuss the evolving landscape of business in the age of AI, emphasizing the shift from task-oriented work to purpose driven services. They explore the implications of AI on job markets, the importance of customer experience, and strategies for business owners to adapt and thrive. The conversation highlights the need for businesses to focus on delivering value beyond mere tasks, ensuring they remain competitive in a rapidly changing environment.Chapters:00:00 Introduction to the Death of the Task Economy01:51 The Shift from Task to Purpose06:09 Understanding Jevons Paradox in AI12:42 Qualitative vs Quantitative Work20:47 Valuation and Purpose in Business25:10 Transforming Services with Purpose32:27 Customer Experience and the Future of ServicesConnect with me on social:TikTok: Check out my TikTok HereInstagram: Check out my Instagram HereFacebook: Check out my Facebook HereLinkedIn: Check out my LinkedIn HereSubscribe to my YouTube 👉 HereResources:• 7 Steps to Scalable workbook• Get my book, Zero Down, FREEMentioned in this episode:Build Your CEO DashboardGet one report every week of the key metrics you need to know with the CEO Dashboard!CEO Dashboard

In This Episode of Business Lunch: Ryan Deiss and Roland Frasier discuss the importance of reflecting on failures to extract valuable lessons for future growth. They emphasize the significance of distributions as a sign of a healthy business, the necessity of focusing on one task at a time, and the long-term value of content marketing. Additionally, they explore the mindset shift from viewing excuses as valid reasons to recognizing them as barriers to success.Chapters:00:00 Reflecting on Failure and Growth03:10 The Importance of Distributions in Business06:06 Prioritizing Tasks and Focus08:50 The Value of Compounding Content11:56 Excuses vs. Reasons: A Mindset ShiftConnect with me on social:TikTok: Check out my TikTok HereInstagram: Check out my Instagram HereFacebook: Check out my Facebook HereLinkedIn: Check out my LinkedIn HereSubscribe to my YouTube 👉 HereResources:• 7 Steps to Scalable workbook• Get my book, Zero Down, FREEMentioned in this episode:Build Your CEO DashboardGet one report every week of the key metrics you need to know with the CEO Dashboard!CEO Dashboard

In This Episode of Business Lunch: Ryan Deiss and Roland Frasier explore the evolving landscape of personal branding and entrepreneurship, focusing on the concept of the 'Individual Empire.' They discuss the shift from being a creator to building a sustainable business, the challenges of content creation, and the importance of team building. The conversation highlights the need for systems and processes to scale effectively and the potential for individual empires to be acquirable in the future. Ultimately, they emphasize that building a business around a personal brand requires careful architecture and planning to ensure longevity and success.Chapters:00:00 Introduction to the Individual Empire Concept02:32 Defining Personal Brands vs. Individual Empires07:35 The Transition from Media to Brand Ownership12:39 Bottlenecks in Content Creation and Audience Growth18:46 Building a Team for Sustainable Growth22:41 The Role of Trust in Consumer Relationships24:26 Valuation of Individual Empires vs. Brands29:59 Best and Worst Case Scenarios for Creators36:08 Final Thoughts on Building Sustainable BusinessesConnect with me on social:TikTok: Check out my TikTok HereInstagram: Check out my Instagram HereFacebook: Check out my Facebook HereLinkedIn: Check out my LinkedIn HereSubscribe to my YouTube 👉 HereResources:• 7 Steps to Scalable workbook• Get my book, Zero Down, FREEMentioned in this episode:Build Your CEO DashboardGet one report every week of the key metrics you need to know with the CEO Dashboard!CEO Dashboard

In This Episode of Business Lunch: Roland Frasier and Richard Lindner reflect on the challenges and triumphs of 2025, discussing the importance of making tough decisions, the role of AI in business strategy, and the lessons learned for the upcoming year. They emphasize the need for operational excellence, strategic thinking, and the importance of aligning business practices with customer needs.Chapters:00:00 New Beginnings: Reflections on 202502:58 Navigating Challenges: The Path to Q4 Success05:54 AI in Business: Strategic Partnerships and Innovations08:53 Building AI Agents: Transforming Business Operations12:02 Lessons Learned: Adjustments and Realignments for 202614:52 Looking Ahead: Optimism and Opportunities for the New YearConnect with me on social:TikTok: Check out my TikTok HereInstagram: Check out my Instagram HereFacebook: Check out my Facebook HereLinkedIn: Check out my LinkedIn HereSubscribe to my YouTube 👉 HereResources:• 7 Steps to Scalable workbook• Get my book, Zero Down, FREEMentioned in this episode:Build Your CEO DashboardGet one report every week of the key metrics you need to know with the CEO Dashboard!CEO Dashboard

In This Episode of Business Lunch, Roland Frasier and Ryan Deiss reflect on the challenges and lessons learned from 2025, emphasizing the disappearance of confidence in business, the importance of profit over margin, and the transformative role of AI. They discuss the need for simplified processes, the significance of content as an asset, and the importance of building systems for predictability as they look ahead to 2026.Chapters00:00 Year in Review: Reflecting on 202502:58 The Disappearance of Confidence05:53 Economic Indicators and Market Behavior08:56 The Shift from Trust to Proof12:03 Profitability Over Margin Percentage14:53 AI as a Team Member: A Paradigm Shift18:07 Transformative AI Applications in Business23:52 Leveraging AI Protocols for Efficiency30:10 Implementing Systems for Business Success35:03 From Momentum to Inevitability38:44 Rethinking Business Events and Resources42:21 Simplifying Processes for Better PerformanceConnect with me on social:TikTok: Check out my TikTok HereInstagram: Check out my Instagram HereFacebook: Check out my Facebook HereLinkedIn: Check out my LinkedIn HereSubscribe to my YouTube 👉 HereResources:• 7 Steps to Scalable workbook• Get my book, Zero Down, FREEMentioned in this episode:Build Your CEO DashboardGet one report every week of the key metrics you need to know with the CEO Dashboard!CEO Dashboard

In This Episode of Business Lunch, Roland and Sarah dig into why most business failures aren't actually motivation problems—they're friction problems. They explore how accidental complexity in your systems quietly kills performance, why transparency in pricing beats "customized solutions," and how mapping out every step of a process reveals the hidden friction that's sabotaging adoption. Sarah pushes back on whether removing friction just accommodates laziness, leading to a nuanced discussion about intentional versus accidental friction. They cover real examples from CRM adoption to project management tools to sales processes, and debate when systems should adapt to people versus when people should adapt to systems. The core insight: if your strategy requires people to "try harder," your system is poorly designed. Includes practical advice on friction audits and why starting small beats trying to redesign everything at once.Connect with me on social:TikTok: Check out my TikTok HereInstagram: Check out my Instagram HereFacebook: Check out my Facebook HereLinkedIn: Check out my LinkedIn HereSubscribe to my YouTube 👉 HereResources:• 7 Steps to Scalable workbook• Get my book, Zero Down, FREE

In This Episode of Business Lunch, we unpack why the real power in AI isn’t the model itself—but the protocols wrapped around it. Even advanced AI systems still get things wrong 15–20% of the time, which makes unchecked automation a serious business risk. The winners aren’t chasing smarter models; they’re building structured decision systems that catch errors, manage leverage, and define when humans step in.We explore how companies use tools like RAG and multi-layer “triple-check” frameworks to dramatically reduce AI error rates, why stabilizing decision-making must come before accelerating it, and how operating leverage—done right—can either amplify profits or protect downside. The big takeaway: well-designed AI protocols are becoming a new form of intellectual property, increasing predictability, transferability, and valuation by creating true founder-independent businesses.In short, the future advantage isn’t faster AI—it’s better thinking systems.Connect with me on social:TikTok: Check out my TikTok HereInstagram: Check out my Instagram HereFacebook: Check out my Facebook HereLinkedIn: Check out my LinkedIn HereSubscribe to my YouTube 👉  HereResources:• 7 Steps to Scalable workbook• Get my book, Zero Down, FREE

In This Episode of Business Lunch, join Ryan Deiss and I in this enlightening episode of Business Lunch, where they delve into the often overlooked yet crucial topic of accounting and finance. We discuss how entrepreneurial optimism can clash with the harsh realities of financial reporting. Learn how to navigate these challenges and foster a productive relationship with your CFO to ensure your company's financial health.Timestamps:00:00 – Entrepreneurial Optimism vs. Financial Realism01:36 – Why Accounting Reporting Shapes Company Culture02:37 – Switching from Cash to Accrual Accounting03:17 – When Financial Reports Become Depressing05:41 – Fixing the Reporting Process08:29 – Avoiding Obstacles: A Common Entrepreneurial Pitfall09:54 – Support Your Team… or Change It12:19 – Leadership’s Role in Financial Clarity17:34 – Preparing for Exit & Upgrading the Finance Team20:17 – Why Accounting Method Changes Can Distort Profit27:03 – Restructuring Contracts to Fix Revenue Recognition31:54 – Challenging Accounting Assumptions37:15 – The Importance of Cash Flow Over Profit40:54 – Don’t Let Accounting Wag the Dog43:10 – Final Thoughts & OutroConnect with me on social:TikTok: Check out my TikTok HereInstagram: Check out my Instagram HereFacebook: Check out my Facebook HereLinkedIn: Check out my LinkedIn HereSubscribe to my YouTube 👉  HereResources:• 7 Steps to Scalable workbook• Get my book, Zero Down, FREEMentioned in this episode:Build Your CEO DashboardGet one report every week of the key metrics you need to know with the CEO Dashboard!CEO Dashboard

In this episode of Business Lunch, we walk you through the ins and outs of managing business finances. We explain the potential pitfalls of keeping more than a month's worth of operating expenses in the account. We explain how that can lead to complacency and unnecessary spending. We also explain how business can cover unexpected events and tricky payroll situations, like those pesky months with three payroll cycles or prepaying for holidays. We go beyond the glamor of being an entrepreneur to the real details behind the scenes.Highlights:"We're very big on lifestyle and freedom and all those kinds of things. But it's also important to acknowledge that it's not a perfect situation very often.""There are times when things are absolutely amazing. And there's times when things could frankly be a hell of a lot better. And I think that's called life. I think that's called entrepreneurship""If we're buying a business, I hate the agreement part. I love negotiation and strategy. But when it comes to reading a 75-page document, I just absolutely can't stand it."Timestamps:00:00 - Operating Account Insight01:15 - Personal Calendar Reflection02:15 - Acknowledging Imperfections03:15 - Loving Strategy but Hating Legal Work06:52 - The Reality of Entrepreneurship07:39 - Cyclicality in Business08:54 - Handling Excess Profit10:20 - Minimum Operating Reserve10:37 - Importance of Operational Cash10:44 - Prepaying Payroll ChallengesConnect with me on social:TikTok: Check out my TikTok HereInstagram: Check out my Instagram HereFacebook: Check out my Facebook HereLinkedIn: Check out my LinkedIn HereSubscribe to my YouTube 👉  HereResources:• 7 Steps to Scalable workbook• Get my book, Zero Down, FREEMentioned in this episode:Build Your CEO DashboardGet one report every week of the key metrics you need to know with the CEO Dashboard!CEO Dashboard

In this episode of Business Lunch, we dive into extreme leverage—how solo founders are building multi-million dollar businesses with basically zero headcount. We break down the playbook: finding expensive problems, validating demand before writing code, and letting AI handle the execution. We also cover the risks, the new KPIs that matter, and the vision of one founder running a portfolio of micro businesses on a single AI-driven back office.Chapters00:00 Building a Billion Dollar AI Company Alone13:18 Leveraging AI for Business Solutions13:45 Redefining Roles in the Age of AISpecial AnnouncementAfter 5 years of teaching entrepreneurs how to build, buy, and sell companies, I'm retiring all Epic courses and educational content permanently. This isn't because they didn't work, thousands have built real wealth with these frameworks, but because AI, capital markets, and collaboration have changed the game. I'm shifting from teaching deals to doing deals. Want access to everything before it disappears forever? This is your last chance to grab 5 years of proven frameworks, strategies, and training materials before they're gone for good. See the full story and whats going into the vault here: Go to the vaultConnect with me on social:TikTok: Check out my TikTok HereInstagram: Check out my Instagram HereFacebook: Check out my Facebook HereLinkedIn: Check out my LinkedIn HereSubscribe to my YouTube 👉  HereRESOURCES:• 7 Steps to Scalable workbook• Get my book, Zero Down, FREEMentioned in this episode:The VaultSpecial Announcement After 5 years of teaching entrepreneurs how to build, buy, and sell companies, I'm retiring all Epic courses and educational content permanently. This isn't because they didn't work, thousands have built real wealth with these frameworks, but because AI, capital markets, and collaboration have changed the game. I'm shifting from teaching deals to doing deals. Want access to everything before it disappears forever? This is your last chance to grab 5 years of proven frameworks, strategies, and training materials before they're gone for good. See the full story and whats going into the vault here: Go to the vaultRetirement Vault

In this episode of Business Lunch, we dive into the critical 90 to 100-day period following a private equity acquisition, emphasizing the need for rapid, auditable value creation. It outlines a strategic framework for CFOs, detailing tactical moves to achieve immediate financial impact while integrating lean thinking principles to eliminate waste and enhance operational efficiency. The discussion also highlights the importance of human behavior in executing these strategies effectively.Chapters00:00 The Critical 90-Day Sprint10:05 Strategic Framework for CFOs18:37 Tactical Moves for Immediate ImpactSpecial AnnouncementAfter 5 years of teaching entrepreneurs how to build, buy, and sell companies, I'm retiring all Epic courses and educational content permanently. This isn't because they didn't work, thousands have built real wealth with these frameworks, but because AI, capital markets, and collaboration have changed the game. I'm shifting from teaching deals to doing deals. Want access to everything before it disappears forever? This is your last chance to grab 5 years of proven frameworks, strategies, and training materials before they're gone for good. See the full story and whats going into the vault here: Go to the vaultConnect with me on social:TikTok: Check out my TikTok HereInstagram: Check out my Instagram HereFacebook: Check out my Facebook HereLinkedIn: Check out my LinkedIn HereSubscribe to my YouTube 👉  HereRESOURCES:• 7 Steps to Scalable workbook• Get my book, Zero Down, FREEMentioned in this episode:The VaultSpecial Announcement After 5 years of teaching entrepreneurs how to build, buy, and sell companies, I'm retiring all Epic courses and educational content permanently. This isn't because they didn't work, thousands have built real wealth with these frameworks, but because AI, capital markets, and collaboration have changed the game. I'm shifting from teaching deals to doing deals. Want access to everything before it disappears forever? This is your last chance to grab 5 years of proven frameworks, strategies, and training materials before they're gone for good. See the full story and whats going into the vault.Retirement Vault

In this episode of Business Lunch, Roland Frasier and Ryan Deiss discuss the evolving landscape of the customer journey, emphasizing the importance of trust in modern marketing. They explore how traditional stages of the buying process are being replaced by a more fluid approach, where trust becomes the key driver of transactions. Through case studies and examples, they highlight the significance of identity trust, authenticity, and the role of founders as trust agents in building strong connections with consumers. The conversation also touches on the challenges and strategies for effectively engaging audiences in both B2B and B2C contexts.Chapters00:00 The Death of the Traditional Customer Journey02:51 The Role of Trust in Modern Marketing06:09 Case Studies: Successful and Controversial Campaigns09:05 Identity Trust: Connecting with Consumers11:57 The Power of Authenticity in Advertising14:56 Building Trust in B2B vs B2C17:59 Actionable Strategies for Trust Building20:47 The Importance of Founders as Trust AgentsSpecial AnnouncementAfter 5 years of teaching entrepreneurs how to build, buy, and sell companies, I'm retiring all Epic courses and educational content permanently. This isn't because they didn't work, thousands have built real wealth with these frameworks, but because AI, capital markets, and collaboration have changed the game. I'm shifting from teaching deals to doing deals. Want access to everything before it disappears forever? This is your last chance to grab 5 years of proven frameworks, strategies, and training materials before they're gone for good. See the full story and whats going into the vault here: Go to the vaultConnect with me on social:TikTok: Check out my TikTok HereInstagram: Check out my Instagram HereFacebook: Check out my Facebook HereLinkedIn: Check out my LinkedIn HereSubscribe to my YouTube 👉  HereRESOURCES:• 7 Steps to Scalable workbook• Get my book, Zero Down, FREE

In this episode of Business Lunch, Roland Frasier and Ryan Deiss discuss the recent transition from Epic Network to a more focused approach with the Scalable Company. They explore the challenges of running a business that has taken on a life of its own, the importance of making changes when a business no longer serves its founders, and the evolving landscape of course creation in the age of AI. The conversation emphasizes the need for entrepreneurs to take action, embrace change, and focus on what truly brings them joy in their business endeavors.Chapters00:00 Introduction and Context of Change03:02 The Evolution of Epic Network05:58 The Decision to Pivot: Why Change is Necessary08:53 Understanding Business Ownership and Personal Happiness11:48 The Importance of Knowing What to Exit To14:56 The Future of Course and Information Businesses21:05 Lessons Learned from the Epic Network Experience30:35 The Reality of Course Consumption33:10 Reflections on 2020 and Business Decisions36:07 Navigating Change and Decision-Making40:06 What Would Need to Be True?43:12 Future Plans and New Directions46:24 Final Thoughts and Messages to the CommunitySpecial AnnouncementAfter 5 years of teaching entrepreneurs how to build, buy, and sell companies, I'm retiring all Epic courses and educational content permanently. This isn't because they didn't work, thousands have built real wealth with these frameworks, but because AI, capital markets, and collaboration have changed the game. I'm shifting from teaching deals to doing deals. Want access to everything before it disappears forever? This is your last chance to grab 5 years of proven frameworks, strategies, and training materials before they're gone for good. See the full story and whats going into the vault here: Go to the vaultConnect with me on social:TikTok: Check out my TikTok HereInstagram: Check out my Instagram HereFacebook: Check out my Facebook HereLinkedIn: Check out my LinkedIn HereSubscribe to my YouTube 👉  HereRESOURCES:• 7 Steps to Scalable workbook• Get my book, Zero Down, FREE

In this episode of the Business Lunch Podcast: We discuss the recent SEC lawsuit against Tai Lopez and the implications of his business model involving the acquisition of defunct retail brands. We analyze the challenges faced by the business, including operational complexities, funding issues, and the importance of having a strong leadership team. We also delve into strategies for revitalizing brands and the lessons learned from this case, emphasizing the need for careful investment and operational planning.TakeawaysThe importance of testing business models before full commitment.Operational complexity requires a strong team with relevant experience.Raising capital should be done with a clear plan for deployment.Brand recognition does not guarantee brand equity.Investors should evaluate the management team's experience and track record.Avoid getting caught up in hype when considering investments.Successful brand revitalization requires strategic marketing and operational support.Understanding consumer preferences is crucial for brand success.Invest in what you know and understand to minimize risk.Be cautious about raising outside capital and its implications.Chapters00:00 Introduction and Book Launches03:06 Tai Lopez SEC Lawsuit Discussion06:04 Business Model Analysis of Acquired Brands08:54 Operational Challenges and Funding Issues12:03 Strategic Recommendations for Brand Revitalization15:08 Lessons Learned from Investment Failures18:10 Final Thoughts and TakeawaysSpecial AnnouncementAfter 5 years of teaching entrepreneurs how to build, buy, and sell companies, I'm retiring all Epic courses and educational content permanently. This isn't because they didn't work, thousands have built real wealth with these frameworks, but because AI, capital markets, and collaboration have changed the game. I'm shifting from teaching deals to doing deals. Want access to everything before it disappears forever? This is your last chance to grab 5 years of proven frameworks, strategies, and training materials before they're gone for good. See the full story and whats going into the vault here: Go to the vaultConnect with me on social:TikTok: Check out my TikTok HereInstagram: Check out my Instagram HereFacebook: Check out my Facebook HereLinkedIn: Check out my LinkedIn HereSubscribe to my YouTube 👉  HereRESOURCES:• 7 Steps to Scalable workbook• Get my book, Zero Down, FREEMentioned in this episode:The VaultSpecial Announcement After 5 years of teaching entrepreneurs how to build, buy, and sell companies, I'm retiring all Epic courses and educational content permanently. This isn't because they didn't work,...

In this episode of Business Lunch(Snack Time): This conversation delves into the significant impact of the federal shutdown on small business financing, particularly focusing on the halt of SBA loans. It explores the resulting liquidity shock, the opportunities it presents for buyers, and the alternative financing strategies that can be employed during this period. The discussion also emphasizes the importance of preparation for sellers and outlines a rapid 10-day strategy for buyers to navigate the current market dynamics effectively.TakeawaysThe federal shutdown has halted SBA loans, impacting small business transactions.A liquidity shock creates temporary opportunities for buyers.Waiting for the SBA to reopen may lead to missed opportunities.Sellers should be flexible and ready to negotiate terms for certainty.Alternative financing options include seller financing and CVRs.Buyers need to prepare a clean deal package to be competitive post-shutdown.The urgency to act now is critical to avoid chaos when the SBA reopens.Understanding geographical concentrations of SBA loan blockages can inform strategy.A proactive approach is essential for both buyers and sellers in this market.The negotiation strategy should align incentives between buyers and sellers.Chapters00:00 Impact of Federal Shutdown on Small Business Transactions04:30 Navigating the Liquidity Shock: Opportunities for Buyers07:27 Alternative Financing Strategies During the Shutdown10:32 Preparing Sellers for a Quick Exit13:38 Aggressive Strategies for Buyers in a Tight Market16:13 snackable introI'm Retiringhttps://epicnetwork.com/epic-retirement-program-vault/Connect with me on social:TikTok: Check out my TikTok HereInstagram: Check out my Instagram HereFacebook: Check out my Facebook HereLinkedIn: Check out my LinkedIn HereSubscribe to my YouTube 👉  HereRESOURCES:I'm Retiring, See What Is Going In The Vault7 Steps to Scalable workbookGet my book, Zero Down, FREE

In this episode of Business Lunch: Roland Frasier and Ryan Deiss discuss the evolving landscape of personal branding and the necessity of becoming an embedded influencer in today's marketing environment. They explore the importance of having a unique point of view, the challenges of building a personal brand, and the strategies for creating engaging content across various platforms. The conversation emphasizes the need for authenticity and connection in branding, as well as actionable steps for listeners to develop their own personal brands effectively.Takeaways:Personal branding is essential in today's marketing landscape.Embedded influencers are more effective than traditional spokespeople.AI has made personal branding more accessible and manageable.Creating content is a necessary part of being a brand ambassador.A unique point of view is crucial for standing out.Character development is key in personal branding.Reluctance to be a public figure can be overcome with practice.Choosing the right content channels is vital for success.Engaging content formats can enhance audience connection.Brands should focus on building a community around their unique perspectives.Chapters:00:00 The Rise of Personal Branding05:56 The Necessity of Embedded Influencers12:02 Building Your Personal Brand18:06 Navigating Reluctance in Personal Branding24:06 The Three Pillars of Personal Branding29:53 Creating Content That Resonates35:56 Final Thoughts on Unique Points of ViewConnect with me on social:TikTok: Check out my TikTok HereInstagram: Check out my Instagram HereFacebook: Check out my Facebook HereLinkedIn: Check out my LinkedIn HereSubscribe to my YouTube 👉  HereRESOURCES:• 7 Steps to Scalable workbook• Get my book, Zero Down, FREE

AI isn’t just speeding up your work—it’s collapsing the market price of your time. In this urgent episode, we trace how the hourly model took over (from artisans to Taylorism to the FLSA), why it systematically funnels surplus value to owners, and why AI is about to accelerate that transfer for consultants, coders, strategists, and creators.Drawing on insights from Roland Frasier, we outline a practical pivot: Consulting for Equity (CFE). Trade your peak-leverage assets (judgment, access, strategic vision) for ownership stakes in businesses AI will amplify. The window to negotiate from strength is short—think 2–5 years. This is how you reconnect pay to outcomes and own a slice of the future you help create.🔑 Key TakeawaysTime vs. Value: The hourly system decoupled pay from outcomes—AI will finish the job by commoditizing execution.Urgency Window (2–5 Years): Use today’s credibility to negotiate equity before AI depresses fees and perceived human premium.CFE in Practice: Swap cash fees for equity when your expertise is decisive to growth (governance + vesting + KPIs).Trade What AI Can’t Replace:Judgment: High-stakes decisions under uncertainty.Access: Trust-based relationships and deal flow.Strategic Vision: Category design, non-obvious bets, sequencing.Outcome Math > Hourly Math: A single well-chosen 3–5% stake can outpace years of billable hours.Episode Highlights00:00 – Cold open: “Don’t outrun AI—trade expertise for equity while your bargaining power is highest.”00:24 – The coming value crash for knowledge workers in the AI era.01:21 – Roland Frasier’s thesis: AI destroys the perceived value of time-to-output.01:50 – Our mission: connect the history of hourly pay to today’s AI shift.02:24 – From artisans to factories: how ownership/control shifted from makers to capital.03:41 – Taylorism & the split: managers think, workers execute—replaceability rises.04:44 – FLSA codifies the hour; protections + unintended incentives for time-based pay.05:24 – Surplus value 101: why productivity gains accrue to owners, not labor.07:18 – The “great decoupling” and why AI accelerates it for knowledge work.08:40 – Market perception shift: “good enough” AI collapses premium rates.09:05 – The window: 2–5 years to convert expertise into equity.10:33 – CFE example: swap a $50k fee for 5% in a $2M SaaS that scales to $20M.11:47 – What to trade: judgment, access, vision (and how each compounds outcomes).13:32 – Action plan: identify your first CFE target this week.💬 Memorable Quotes“If you’re just selling time, AI will set your price.”“The play isn’t to outrun AI—it’s to own what AI will multiply.”“Equity reconnects your pay to the value you actually create.”“Trade judgment, access, and vision—because AI can’t.”Mentioned in This EpisodeRoland Frasier on the urgency of Consulting for Equity (CFE)Historical anchors: Putting-out system, Taylorism, FLSA (1938), surplus value & the productivity/pay decouplingCFE Mechanics: Equity-for-fee swaps, vesting tied to KPIs, governance basicsTry This This WeekList 3 businesses where your judgment, access, or vision could create step-change...

Roland Frasier and Ryan Deiss crack open the 2025 Forbes 400 and spot a seismic shift: 71% are now self-made, the cutoff is a record $3.8B, and the newest entrants aren’t entertainers or app celebrities—they’re infrastructure builders (data labeling, energy export, freight platforms, drive-thru formats). The guys lay out a practical framework—B.O.T. (Bottlenecks, Order Flow, Tools)—to find, buy, and scale the “unsexy” choke points where outsized wealth is created. Expect candid takes on ethics and regulation, tax advantages vs. complexity, and why tech alone isn’t a moat in the AI era.Key TakeawaysQuiet wealth > spotlight wealth: New billionaires control choke points (permits, labeled data, logistics, power access) instead of chasing virality.Tech isn’t the moat—distribution is: If you’re just a feature, the platform will build you tomorrow. Own users, data, or order flow.B.O.T. framework:Bottlenecks — Find scarce inputs (power near substations, HIPAA-grade data, specialized trades), professionalize small operators, exit to strategics.Order Flow — Aggregate fragmented brokers (freight, dirt hauling, niche staffing), add AI matching, monetize spread & float.Tools — Bundle niche AI/DevOps tools (monitoring, RLHF QA, rights mgmt.) into suites; sell shovels for the gold rush.Ethics & risk: Bottlenecks ≠ monopolies; add real value or get routed around. Order-flow plays invite regulatory heat—design accordingly.Luck favors the paranoid: Nvidia’s rise = timing + category choice. Choose your competitor carefully; it defines your playing field.Episode Highlights00:00 – Cold open: dentists, numb faces, and a record-breaking Forbes 400.03:10 – The stat no one’s talking about: 71% self-made, $6.6T total wealth, $3.8B cutoff.08:20 – Why opportunity has more leverage than ever (AI + democratized tools), but tech alone won’t save you.12:45 – B is for Bottlenecks: picks & shovels thinking; mini-moats in permits, medical transcripts, underground tank installers for data centers.22:10 – Ethics check: bottlenecks vs. monopolies; how to add value without getting regulated to death.27:05 – O is for Order Flow: Robinhood’s play, freight/dirt broker roll-ups, AI pricing/matching, monetizing spread & float.36:40 – The toll-booth trap: if you don’t add value, the sides will route around you.41:30 – T is for Tools: why toolmakers outlive trends; bundling niche AI devtools; the Nvidia, Intel, AMD cautionary tales.53:10 – Choosing competitors = choosing categories; luck + timing still matter.57:45 – Operator wrap: how to map your business to B.O.T. this quarter.Memorable Quotes“If all you are is a feature, you don’t have a business—you have a countdown clock.”“Quiet wealth lives in the choke points everyone else ignores.”“Bottlenecks aren’t monopolies—create value or the market will route around you.”“Tech isn’t a moat. Users, data, and distribution are.”Mentioned in This EpisodeForbes 400 (2025): $6.6T total; $3.8B entry; 71% self-madeCategories: Data labeling (Surge AI), LNG export...

In this week’s episode of Business Lunch, Roland Frasier and Ryan Deiss continue breaking down the “Bottlenecks” framework—the 11 proven playbooks that billionaires use to grow, protect, and multiply wealth.From AI-driven acquisitions to tax-optimized exits, this conversation dives into the strategies that separate ordinary entrepreneurs from long-term empire builders. You’ll hear how the world’s wealthiest think about capital allocation, scaling “boring” businesses, and structuring companies for massive, tax-efficient exits.Whether you’re scaling your first venture or managing a growing portfolio, this episode is a tactical deep dive into how to think—and act—like a billionaire.Key Takeaways • Tech Is Not a Moat: With AI making innovation easy to copy, your real advantage is distribution and users. • The QSBS Advantage: How the Qualified Small Business Stock exemption can eliminate up to $10M (or more) in capital gains per shareholder. • DAFs & Charitable Strategy: Donor Advised Funds can combine tax savings with long-term impact—if structured correctly. • Boring Businesses, Billionaire Results: Logistics, energy, and real estate can quietly create generational wealth when value is added and scaled. • Capital Cycling: Why the world’s best investors (like Blackstone and Berkshire) act like banks—recycling capital and compounding returns.Episode Highlights [00:02:00] – Why tech is easy to copy—and why users, not code, create real enterprise value. [00:10:00] – The billionaire tax play: how QSBS and DAFs legally minimize or eliminate capital gains. [00:18:00] – When to start thinking about tax strategy (hint: usually not before $10M net worth). [00:25:00] – Logistics, land, and “boring” businesses that create quiet fortunes. [00:33:00] – The ESG arbitrage: adding sustainability to raise valuations. [00:40:00] – Network effects and marketplace rollups: creating compounding flywheels. [00:55:00] – The rise of “edge retail”: micro-brands, coffee chains, and inversion models that scale fast. [01:05:00] – Capital cycling and other people’s money (OPM): how billionaires play the funding game.Memorable Quotes“If all you are is a feature that someone else could build, you don’t have a business—you have a countdown clock.”“Boring businesses aren’t boring when they compound quietly into billions.”“It’s not what you make—it’s what you keep.”“Billionaires don’t think like operators; they think like capital allocators.”Mentioned in This EpisodeQualified Small Business Stock (QSBS) – U.S. tax exemption strategyDonor Advised Funds (DAFs) – Philanthropic and tax planning vehiclesRoss Perot Jr. – Logistics real estateDutch Bros – Scalable retail model exampleBlackstone & Berkshire Hathaway – Capital cycling and compounding modelsListen If You’reA founder or investor learning to structure smarter deals.A CEO or operator ready to scale beyond execution into capital allocation.A strategic thinker who wants to play the long game in business and wealth creation.ConnectHosts: Roland Frasier & Ryan DeissPodcast: Business Lunch with Roland FrasierMore at: businesslunchpodcast.com

In this episode of Business Lunch, Roland Frasier and Ryan Deiss explain how the classic four-stage buying journey has collapsed into one moment—and why trust is the lid that keeps prospects “popping” in your pot. They unpack three forms of trust—Identity, Competence, and Proximity—with sharp wins and public flops (Nike, Sephora, Peloton, DSW, Starbucks, Apple, United). You’ll get simple creative frameworks to turn short-form content into instant, in-channel conversions and a 14-day sprint to prove it on a small budget.Highlights“It’s not a funnel anymore—it’s a popcorn popper. Your audience are kernels heating at different speeds. Trust is the lid that keeps them popping for you.”“Competence trust means the brand ‘gets me’—often better than I can describe myself.”“Employees outperform celebrities for reach and credibility—because most buyers are employees.”“Frictionless is forgettable. Add desirable friction that helps buyers name their pain and act.”“If you can’t pivot your model, bolt trust into your media: mirror-micro-media, why-what-where, people-place-proof.”Mentioned in This EpisodeThree Trust Types (MAP mnemonic):M – Identity trust: Mirror → Micro → MediaA – Competence trust: “Answer” with Why → What → WhereP – Proximity trust: People → Place → ProofCompetence wins & misses: Nike’s “Why do it?” repositioning; Sephora tutorials lifting AOV; Peloton’s 2019 holiday ad backlash.Proximity plays: DSW AR try-ons; Starbucks barista TikToks; Apple retail specialists; cautionary tale—United Airlines viral incidents.Localization tactics: regional currency/sites, geo-specific visuals (city skylines), and micro-influencers by market.KPI effects: higher AOV/retention/loyalty from competence; higher LTV from proximity; employee posts driving outsized reach.Timestamps00:00 – The collapsed customer journey: from funnel to popcorn popper (trust as the lid)04:00 – Recap: Identity trust (mirror, micro, media)—and why episodes stand alone but compound07:30 – Competence trust: the brand that “gets me” (Nike shift, Sephora demos) + Peloton misread14:20 – Framework for competence: Why → What → Where (myth-bust, demo, direct CTA)17:30 – Example: 30-sec tax advisory myth-buster → LinkedIn/Reels → consult link → track AOV20:10 – Proximity trust: employees, in-place context, show real proof (DSW AR, Starbucks, Apple)24:10 – Employee content > celebrity polish; make it authentic, even shot on phone26:00 – 14-day Trust Sprint and MAP recap; why proximity is overlooked yet most scalableTakeaways for OperatorsStop chasing linear funnels; engineer trust in-channel so action can happen immediately.Use Why → What → Where to collapse steps: name the pain, show the fix, drop the link.Turn staff into a media network: People → Place → Proof with incentives and simple tracking.Localize by currency, domains, visuals, accents, micro-influencers—it quietly multiplies conversion.Run a 14-day sprint: baseline CAC/AOV → recruit 3 customers + 3 insiders → record shorts →...