Vital Wealth Strategies

What if everything you’ve been told about investing, by your wealth manager, your bank, and even your financial advisor, is shaped more by their incentives than your best interests? In this episode of the Vital Wealth Strategies Podcast, host Patrick Lonergan sits down with Tad Fallows, co-founder of Long Angle, a private peer community built exclusively for high-net-worth entrepreneurs and investors. Tad spent a decade building and exiting a software company, and when he suddenly found himself managing serious wealth, he discovered a startling gap: the people best positioned to help often had the most conflicts of interest. So he built something different, a no-selling, no-pitch community where members with $5M to $100M+ in net worth share real intelligence, access elite alternative investments, and make smarter decisions together. In this episode, Tad breaks down the investment strategies that the ultra-wealthy actually use, and why most entrepreneurs are unknowingly leaving significant returns on the table. Listeners will learn why a 30% allocation to alternative investments (private equity, private credit, litigation finance, search funds, and even whiskey barrel financing) can dramatically improve portfolio performance and reduce volatility. Tad also reveals why traditional wealth managers have a structural blind spot when it comes to recommending the best opportunities, how illiquidity can actually be a behavioral advantage for long-term investors, and the little-known tax strategy (Private Placement Life Insurance) that can turn a 12% return into a near 11% net, instead of the ~6% most investors settle for after taxes. Whether someone is a recently exited founder or a high-earner navigating complex finances for the first time, this episode is a masterclass in building generational wealth with intention. Key Takeaways: The top 1% allocate roughly 30% of their portfolio to alternative assets, including private equity, private credit, and niche strategies most investors never hear about. Traditional wealth managers have an AUM-driven conflict of interest that keeps clients away from the best-performing (and often unmanageable) opportunities. Private markets offer higher alpha potential because they are less efficient but access and operator-quality diligence are everything. Illiquidity is not just a tradeoff, it’s a behavioral advantage that prevents panic selling and compounds long-term returns. Private Placement Life Insurance (PPLI) is a powerful tax wrapper that converts ordinary income from private credit into tax-deferred or tax-free growth. Search funds, investing in an operator to acquire a small business at ~4x earnings and sell at ~10x have historically generated 30%+ IRR. In private markets, manager selection matters more than deal selection, back the 2nd to 4th fund managers with $100M–$1B+ AUM. Community-driven investing (like Long Angle) gives members access to institutional-level intelligence and deal flow without product pitches or conflicts. Most entrepreneurs post-exit are overconcentrated, under-diversified, and missing the access and peer networks needed to optimize their wealth. The S&P 500 is a solid baseline (~10% long-term return), but alternatives add diversification, non-correlation, and return enhancement for investors who are ready. Learn More About Tad: Long Angle (Tad’s peer investing community for HNW entrepreneurs): https://longangle.com Resources:    Visit www.vitalstrategies.com to download FREE resources      Listen to the podcast on your favorite app: Vital Wealth Strategies Podcast | Tax & Financial Strategies for Entrepreneurs   Follow on Instagram at https://www.instagram.com/vital.strategies       Follow on Facebook at https://www.facebook.com/VitalStrategiesPodcast      Follow on LinkedIn at https://www.linkedin.com/in/patricklonergan/      Credits:     Sponsored by Vital Wealth     Music by Cephas     Art work by Two Tone Creative  Audio, video, research and copywriting by Victoria O'Brien

What if the biggest threat to your success isn’t taking too much risk, but taking the wrong risk at the wrong time? In this episode of the Vital Wealth Strategies Podcast, host Patrick Lonergan sits down with Michael O’Keefe to break down one of the most misunderstood concepts for entrepreneurs: how risk should evolve as your business grows. Together, they walk through a powerful four-stage framework that helps entrepreneurs align their decisions with where they are today so they can stop guessing and start building with intention. Patrick and Michael explore how entrepreneurs can move from the all-in intensity of the build phase to protecting what they’ve created, multiplying their wealth through focus, and ultimately stepping into legacy with clarity and purpose. Along the way, they share real-world insights on avoiding costly distractions, building financial stability, and making smarter capital allocation decisions. If you’ve ever felt torn between growth and security, or questioned whether you’re making the right moves in your business, this episode delivers a clear roadmap for using risk as a strategic advantage instead of a liability. Key Takeaways: Risk for entrepreneurs should evolve across four stages: build, protect, multiply, and legacy Taking the wrong risk at the wrong time can stall growth or destroy wealth The build phase requires going all-in and prioritizing speed and revenue generation The protect phase focuses on creating financial margin and avoiding lifestyle creep The multiply phase demands focus and eliminating distractions to maximize business value Passive investments should not pull time or energy away from your core business The legacy phase shifts from ROI to impact, flexibility, and long-term wealth planning An investment policy statement can help entrepreneurs stay disciplined with decisions Cash reserves create both protection during downturns and opportunity during chaos Long-term, consistent decision-making is the key to compounding success Episode Resources: Vital Wealth Resources: https://vitalwealth.com/resources Submit a Question: https://vitalstrategies.com/questions Vital Wealth Website: https://vitalwealth.com The 4-Hour Workweek by Tim Ferriss Die With Zero by Bill Perkins Resources:    Visit www.vitalstrategies.com to download FREE resources      Listen to the podcast on your favorite app: Vital Wealth Strategies Podcast | Tax & Financial Strategies for Entrepreneurs   Follow on Instagram at https://www.instagram.com/vital.strategies       Follow on Facebook at https://www.facebook.com/VitalStrategiesPodcast      Follow on LinkedIn at https://www.linkedin.com/in/patricklonergan/      Credits:     Sponsored by Vital Wealth     Music by Cephas     Art work by Two Tone Creative  Audio, video, research and copywriting by Victoria O'Brien

What if you could legally defer, or even eliminate, capital gains taxes on the sale of your business, real estate, or investments? Many entrepreneurs spend decades building wealth only to see a large portion disappear to taxes after a major liquidity event. In this episode of the Vital Wealth Strategies Podcast, Patrick Lonergan explores one of the most powerful, and often misunderstood, tax strategies available to investors today: Opportunity Zones. Patrick sits down with Ashley Tison, founder of OZ Pros and one of the leading experts on Opportunity Zone investing, to break down how this strategy works and why it has become a powerful tool for entrepreneurs, investors, and family offices looking to minimize tax drag and maximize long-term wealth. Ashley explains the evolution from Opportunity Zones 1.0 to 2.0, how investors can potentially defer taxes for years, reduce their tax liability, and even eliminate capital gains taxes entirely after holding qualifying investments long enough. They also discuss how Opportunity Zones can be used alongside other strategies like 1031 exchanges, estate planning, and business exits, giving entrepreneurs a smarter way to turn a taxable event into a long-term wealth building opportunity. If you're planning to sell a business, real estate, or any highly appreciated asset, this conversation could fundamentally change how you think about capital gains and long-term investment strategy. Key Takeaways: Opportunity Zones allow investors to defer capital gains taxes by reinvesting gains within 180 days. The updated Opportunity Zones 2.0 rules introduce rolling 5-year deferral periods and potential tax reductions. Investors may receive up to a 30% tax reduction when investing in rural Opportunity Zones. Holding an Opportunity Zone investment for 10+ years can eliminate capital gains taxes on the new investment growth. Investors can create their own “captive Opportunity Fund” to control how and where their money is invested. Opportunity Zones can be used alongside 1031 exchanges, estate planning strategies, and business exit planning. Long-term investing inside Opportunity Zones can dramatically reduce tax drag and improve compounding returns. Opportunity Zone investments can potentially eliminate depreciation recapture taxes in certain structures. Episode Resources: OZ Pros: https://ozpros.com Opportunity Zone Podcast Resource Page : https://ozpros.com/podcast Opportunity Zone Map : https://ozpros.com/map Vital Wealth Website: https://www.vitalwealth.com Opportunity Zones (IRS Overview): https://www.irs.gov/credits-deductions/opportunity-zones Resources:    Visit www.vitalstrategies.com to download FREE resources      Listen to the podcast on your favorite app: Vital Wealth Strategies Podcast | Tax & Financial Strategies for Entrepreneurs   Follow on Instagram at https://www.instagram.com/vital.strategies       Follow on Facebook at https://www.facebook.com/VitalStrategiesPodcast      Follow on LinkedIn at https://www.linkedin.com/in/patricklonergan/      Credits:     Sponsored by Vital Wealth     Music by Cephas     Art work by Two Tone Creative  Audio, video, research and copywriting by Victoria O'Brien

Can a podcast become one of the most valuable marketing assets your business ever builds? In this episode of the Vital Wealth Strategies Podcast, host Patrick Lonergan sits down with entrepreneur and digital platform builder Nathan Gwilliam, founder of Pod Up, to discuss how podcasting has evolved into a powerful growth strategy for entrepreneurs and CEOs. Patrick explores why podcasting has become such an effective way to build authority, develop relationships with influential people, and expand a company’s reach. Nathan shares insights from building large digital platforms that have reached hundreds of millions of users and explains why podcasting is no longer just about recording audio. Today, it is a full content marketing system that can generate social media content, blogs, video clips, and long-term audience growth. Throughout the conversation, Nathan explains why many business owners struggle to launch a podcast and why most podcasts fail within their first few episodes. He breaks down the concept of “pod fade,” the common gap between effort and results that causes entrepreneurs to quit too early. Nathan also reveals how modern tools and systems can dramatically simplify podcast production, helping founders focus on what matters most: showing up, sharing their expertise, and building meaningful connections with their audience. For entrepreneurs looking to grow their influence, attract new opportunities, and build an audience they truly own, this episode delivers practical strategies and a compelling look at how podcasting can become a long-term business asset. Key Takeaways: Why podcasting has become one of the most powerful marketing strategies for entrepreneurs The real reason most podcasts fail within the first 5 to 10 episodes How CEOs can use podcasts to build authority and expand their professional network Why inviting ideal clients to be podcast guests can create new business opportunities How a single podcast episode can be repurposed into 8 to 12 pieces of content The importance of owning your audience through email lists and your own website How podcasting can become a long term revenue generating asset for entrepreneurs The role of “passion marketing” in creating content your audience truly cares about Learn More About Nathan: https://whywebelieve.com/ https://podcastingsecrets.com/ https://podup.com/ Resources:    Visit www.vitalstrategies.com to download FREE resources      Listen to the podcast on your favorite app: Vital Wealth Strategies Podcast | Tax & Financial Strategies for Entrepreneurs   Follow on Instagram at https://www.instagram.com/vital.strategies       Follow on Facebook at https://www.facebook.com/VitalStrategiesPodcast      Follow on LinkedIn at https://www.linkedin.com/in/patricklonergan/      Credits:     Sponsored by Vital Wealth     Music by Cephas     Art work by Two Tone Creative  Audio, video, research and copywriting by Victoria O'Brien

What if the fastest path to business ownership wasn’t starting from scratch, but stepping into a system that’s already proven to work? In this episode of the Vital Wealth Strategies Podcast, host Patrick Lonergan sits down with franchise consultant and Wall Street Journal bestselling author Greg Mohr to unpack what franchising really looks like behind the scenes. Together, they explore how entrepreneurs can replace W2 income, diversify risk, and build scalable cash flow without reinventing the wheel. For high earners who feel stuck in income concentration or hesitant to gamble six figures on an unproven startup, this conversation offers a smarter framework. Patrick and Greg break down the realities of franchise ownership, including semi-absentee models, funding options like SBA loans and ROBS structures, how to properly evaluate a franchise using the Franchise Disclosure Document (FDD), and what strong exit strategies look like. This episode is not about hype. It’s about strategy, due diligence, and building predictable income through proven systems. If you are serious about minimizing risk, accelerating cash flow, and building long-term wealth through business ownership, this conversation will reshape how you think about entrepreneurship. Key Takeaways Why franchising can accelerate business ownership compared to starting from scratch The difference between brick-and-mortar and service-based franchise models How semi-absentee ownership actually works What to look for in the Franchise Disclosure Document (FDD) How to evaluate franchise risk and turnover rates Funding options including SBA loans and ROBS (401k rollover) How franchise resale and exit strategies typically work Why predictable cash flow is critical for long-term wealth building Learn More About Greg: Greg Mohr’s Website: https://franchisemaven.com Greg Mohr Email: greg@franchisemaven.com Episode Resources: Rich Dad Poor Dad by Robert Kiyosaki Resources:    Visit www.vitalstrategies.com to download FREE resources      Listen to the podcast on your favorite app: Vital Wealth Strategies Podcast | Tax & Financial Strategies for Entrepreneurs   Follow on Instagram at https://www.instagram.com/vital.strategies       Follow on Facebook at https://www.facebook.com/VitalStrategiesPodcast      Follow on LinkedIn at https://www.linkedin.com/in/patricklonergan/      Credits:     Sponsored by Vital Wealth     Music by Cephas     Art work by Two Tone Creative  Audio, video, research and copywriting by Victoria O'Brien

The wealth you’ve worked so hard to build could be eroded far more by taxes and lawsuits than by market volatility. In this episode of the Vital Wealth Strategies Podcast, host Patrick Lonergan sits down with Michael Moffa, Founder and President of Prosperity Tax Advisors and Prosperity Wealth Advisors, to discuss how entrepreneurs can shift from reactive tax filing to proactive tax strategy. Patrick, founder of Vital Wealth, leads a compelling conversation about why many business owners outgrow their CPA, how fragmented financial advice creates unnecessary risk, and why true wealth building requires coordination between tax planning, investment strategy, and asset protection. Michael breaks down advanced but practical concepts including quarterly tax forecasting, liquidity event planning, short-term rental depreciation strategies, audit defense, entity optimization, and layered asset protection structures used by high-net-worth individuals. He also addresses the dangers of oversimplified social media tax advice and explains how entrepreneurs can legally minimize tax exposure while strengthening their overall financial structure. For business owners serious about keeping more of what they earn and protecting it for the long term, this episode offers actionable insights and strategic clarity. Key Takeaways: Why most CPA firms are built for compliance, not proactive tax strategy The importance of quarterly tax forecasting instead of year-end scrambling How short-term rental tax strategies actually work (and common misconceptions) Why filing extensions can reduce errors and potential audit issues What audit protection really means and why it matters How to structure entities for both tax efficiency and asset protection The role of Wyoming holding companies and charging order protection Why directors & officers (D&O) insurance is often overlooked How high-net-worth individuals mitigate large tax liabilities legally Learn More About Michael: Prosperity Tax Advisors – https://prosperityta.com Michael Moffa – mmoffa@prosperityta.com Resources:    Visit www.vitalstrategies.com to download FREE resources      Listen to the podcast on your favorite app: Vital Wealth Strategies Podcast | Tax & Financial Strategies for Entrepreneurs   Follow on Instagram at https://www.instagram.com/vital.strategies       Follow on Facebook at https://www.facebook.com/VitalStrategiesPodcast      Follow on LinkedIn at https://www.linkedin.com/in/patricklonergan/      Credits:     Sponsored by Vital Wealth     Music by Cephas     Art work by Two Tone Creative  Audio, video, research and copywriting by Victoria O'Brien

What if the very systems that helped build a successful business are now the reason it can’t scale? In this episode of the Vital Wealth Strategies Podcast, host Patrick Lonergan sits down with Michael O'Keefe to explore the critical shift entrepreneurs must make to grow beyond their current ceiling. Together, they unpack why hustle alone won’t scale a business, how leadership evolution impacts enterprise value, and why structural design matters more than effort at higher levels of growth. This conversation challenges founders and CEOs to rethink their role, their financial architecture, and their strategy for long-term durability. Patrick and Michael break down the four stages of competence and explain why every new level of scale requires a renewed learning curve. They discuss the shift from operator to architect, the financial guardrails required to protect margins and cash flow, and how intentional capital allocation, tax-aware strategy, and disciplined decision-making create a business designed to last. Entrepreneurs who want to scale with clarity instead of chaos will walk away with a framework to strengthen structure, increase enterprise value, and build a company that can grow beyond their personal effort. Key Takeaways: Why what built your business won’t necessarily scale it The leadership shift required to move from operator to architect How invisible ceilings stall business growth The four stages of competence and why growth requires discomfort Margin guardrails and financial modeling for smarter scale decisions Why tax-aware scaling protects both cash flow and enterprise value How structural clarity reduces bottlenecks and increases valuation The difference between growth by effort and growth by design Episode Resources: https://vitalwealth.com/resources https://vitatrategies.com/tax The Inner Game of Tennis Grit by Angela Duckworth The Five Dysfunctions of a Team by Patrick Lencioni Resources:    Visit www.vitalstrategies.com to download FREE resources      Listen to the podcast on your favorite app: Vital Wealth Strategies Podcast | Tax & Financial Strategies for Entrepreneurs   Follow on Instagram at https://www.instagram.com/vital.strategies       Follow on Facebook at https://www.facebook.com/VitalStrategiesPodcast      Follow on LinkedIn at https://www.linkedin.com/in/patricklonergan/      Credits:     Sponsored by Vital Wealth     Music by Cephas     Art work by Two Tone Creative  Audio, video, research and copywriting by Victoria O'Brien

What if the real reason your business feels exposed isn’t your income, but your structure? In this episode of the Vital Wealth Strategies Podcast, host Patrick Lonergan breaks down why so many successful entrepreneurs remain vulnerable to lawsuits, tax inefficiencies, and unnecessary risk due to poor entity planning and lack of privacy. Patrick is joined by Bobby Casey, founder of Business Anywhere, who shares hard-earned insights from decades of entrepreneurial experience helping business owners protect assets, reduce exposure, and build resilient structures that support long-term freedom. Together, Patrick and Bobby dive into the real-world mechanics of asset protection, including why insurance alone isn’t enough, why owning assets in a personal name can be dangerous, and how proper entity structuring can prevent a single lawsuit from wiping out years of work. Bobby explains his “castle” approach to asset protection, where privacy becomes the first line of defense, and highlights common mistakes entrepreneurs make when forming LLCs themselves. If you're an entrepreneur, real estate investor, or high-income business owner looking to create more peace of mind, protect what you’ve built, and gain flexibility for the future, this episode is packed with actionable strategies you can implement immediately. Key Takeaways: Why most entrepreneurs are overexposed even when they’re financially successful The biggest mistakes business owners make when forming LLCs and structuring assets Why insurance is not a substitute for real asset protection How privacy reduces lawsuit risk and deters opportunistic litigation Why you should avoid mixing real estate, operating businesses, and liquid assets in one entity The importance of dissolving LLCs after selling an asset to avoid future liability How Business Anywhere simplifies entity management, registered agent services, and renewals Episode Resources: Business Anywhere: https://businessanywhere.io Vital Wealth Resources Hub: https://vitalwealth.com/resources Podcast Homepage (Vital Wealth): https://www.vitalwealth.com/ Resources:    Visit www.vitalstrategies.com to download FREE resources      Listen to the podcast on your favorite app: https://link.chtbl.com/vitalstrategies     Follow on Instagram at https://www.instagram.com/vital.strategies       Follow on Facebook at https://www.facebook.com/VitalStrategiesPodcast      Follow on LinkedIn at https://www.linkedin.com/in/patricklonergan/      Credits:     Sponsored by Vital Wealth     Music by Cephas     Art work by Two Tone Creative  Audio, video, research and copywriting by Victoria O'Brien

What if building Passive Income didn’t require becoming a landlord or adding another job to your life? In this episode of the Vital Wealth Strategies Podcast, host Patrick Lonergan, founder of Vital Wealth, sits down with Bronson Hill to unpack how investors and high net worth entrepreneurs can create truly scalable wealth without sacrificing time, freedom, or focus. Patrick brings his perspective as a tax-focused wealth strategist, while Bronson shares his journey from medical device sales to replacing earned income with passive cash flow in under three years through private real estate and alternative investments.   Together, they challenge the myth of “passive” real estate, explain why most small rental strategies fail to Scale, and walk through how sophisticated investors evaluate deals, operators, and private networks. This conversation is designed for investors who want consistent passive income, better tax efficiency, and access to opportunities typically reserved for high net worth circles, without the stress and complexity that derail most wealth plans. If you are looking to scale capital, protect your lifestyle, and invest with intention, this episode delivers a practical roadmap. Key Takeaways: Why most “passive” real estate strategies actually become second jobs How High Net Worth Investors scale Passive Income through private deals The role of professional operators in building truly scalable investments How to vet deals and operators with an investor-first mindset Why private networks outperform public, mass-market investment offerings Episode Resources: Fire Yourself by Bronson Hill Official Website: Home - Bronson Equity Resources:    Visit www.vitalstrategies.com to download FREE resources      Listen to the podcast on your favorite app: https://link.chtbl.com/vitalstrategies     Follow on Instagram at https://www.instagram.com/vital.strategies       Follow on Facebook at https://www.facebook.com/VitalStrategiesPodcast      Follow on LinkedIn at https://www.linkedin.com/in/patricklonergan/      Credits:     Sponsored by Vital Wealth     Music by Cephas     Art work by Two Tone Creative  Audio, video, research and copywriting by Victoria O'Brien

What if hitting seven figures doesn’t make money easier… it actually makes every decision harder? In this kickoff episode of the “Designed to Last” series on the Vital Wealth Strategies Podcast, host Patrick Lonergan sits down with Michael Loki, a Vital Wealth advisor, for a conversation that challenges a common belief entrepreneurs have as they grow: that more income automatically brings more clarity. Instead, Patrick explains why success often creates more moving parts, more decisions, and more pressure and why financial confidence must be built intentionally, not hoped for. Throughout the episode, Patrick breaks down the real reason high-income business owners still feel uncertain about profitability, cash flow, and what’s “actually working” inside the business. He shares the three pillars that help businesses scale without becoming a stressful house of cards - profitability, financial reporting, and cash management and offers practical tools like monthly P&L tracking, accrual accounting awareness, accounts receivable reporting, and a 13-week rolling cash flow forecast. If you’ve ever wondered why you can have money in the bank but still feel behind, or why growth can trigger surprise tax problems and cash crunches, this episode is a must-listen. Key Takeaways: Higher income creates more complexity, not less and clarity must be built on purpose A profitable business is the first requirement for something truly “designed to last” Monthly P&L reporting (including year-over-year comparisons) is a non-negotiable tool Owner pay matters: underpaying yourself can create “fake profitability” and hurt valuation Cash flow problems can happen even in profitable businesses (especially with taxes + growth) A 13-week cash flow forecast helps owners lead proactively instead of reacting Episode Resources: Simple Numbers by Greg Crabtree QuickBooks Online Vital Wealth cash flow assessment: vitalstrategies.com/cashflow Resources:    Visit www.vitalstrategies.com to download FREE resources      Listen to the podcast on your favorite app: https://link.chtbl.com/vitalstrategies     Follow on Instagram at https://www.instagram.com/vital.strategies       Follow on Facebook at https://www.facebook.com/VitalStrategiesPodcast      Follow on LinkedIn at https://www.linkedin.com/in/patricklonergan/      Credits:     Sponsored by Vital Wealth     Music by Cephas     Art work by Two Tone Creative  Audio, video, research and copywriting by Victoria O'Brien

What happens to your wealth and your freedom, when money is no longer backed by anything and every transaction can be tracked, restricted, or shut off? In this episode of the Vital Wealth Strategies Podcast, host Patrick Lonergan sits down with financial researcher and author David Morgan to unpack the real risks of fiat currency, inflation, and centralized monetary control. David shares decades of insight into how modern money is created, why inflation quietly erodes purchasing power, and how financial “stability” can mask a system built on increasing debt, manipulation, and surveillance. Throughout the conversation, Patrick and David explore what a monetary reset could look like, the dangers of programmable money and CBDCs, and why “sound money” matters for entrepreneurs who want true long-term security. David also breaks down practical ways to reclaim monetary sovereignty, highlighting gold, silver, and land as time-tested stores of value and explains why he remains skeptical of Bitcoin as a freedom tool in today’s institutional landscape. This episode is a must-listen for business owners and high earners who want to protect their assets, think independently, and build wealth that isn’t dependent on fragile systems or compliance-driven control. Key Takeaways Fiat currency systems historically collapse when trust breaks, often through inflation or debt crises Inflation acts like a hidden tax that steadily erodes purchasing power over time CBDCs and programmable money can enable surveillance and restrictions on personal spending Financial collapse often results in asset repricing and ownership transfer—not “wealth disappearing” Gold, silver, and land remain foundational tools for preserving monetary sovereignty Silver can be a practical, accessible hedge for everyday investors Bitcoin may not deliver the independence many expect due to institutional capture concerns True freedom includes financial resilience, critical thinking, and personal responsibility Learn More About David: The Morgan Report: morganreport.com Silver Sunrise Documentary: silversunrise.tv Silver Manifesto by David Morgan Episode Resources: Mises Institute (Austrian economics): mises.org Bank for International Settlements (BIS): bis.org The Creature from Jekyll Island by G. Edward Griffin Atlas Shrugged by Ayn Rand The Fountainhead by Ayn Rand Resources:    Visit www.vitalstrategies.com to download FREE resources      Listen to the podcast on your favorite app: https://link.chtbl.com/vitalstrategies     Follow on Instagram at https://www.instagram.com/vital.strategies       Follow on Facebook at https://www.facebook.com/VitalStrategiesPodcast      Follow on LinkedIn at https://www.linkedin.com/in/patricklonergan/      Credits:     Sponsored by Vital Wealth     Music by Cephas     Art work by Two Tone Creative  Audio, video, research and copywriting by Victoria O'Brien

What happens when your net worth grows faster than your liquidity and your tax bill keeps climbing along the way? Many founders and executives with equity in private companies find themselves asset-rich on paper but limited in flexibility, diversification, and tax efficiency. In this episode of the Vital Wealth Strategies Podcast, host Patrick Lonergan explores one of the most overlooked challenges facing high-earning entrepreneurs: concentrated, illiquid private equity and the hidden risks that come with waiting on a future liquidity event. Patrick is joined by Brogger, Founder and CEO of Collective Liquidity and a pioneer in private market innovation. Greg shares how exchange funds, structured liquidity, and disciplined diversification strategies can help founders and executives reduce risk, access capital, and defer taxes without giving up long-term upside. Drawing from his experience building SharesPost and the NASDAQ Private Market, Greg breaks down why traditional approaches often fail private equity holders and how a more intentional strategy can create financial flexibility, peace of mind, and better outcomes for growing businesses. Key takeaways from this episode: Why over-concentration in private company equity creates both financial and tax risk How exchange funds work and why they are especially powerful in private markets Ways founders and executives can create liquidity without triggering immediate capital gains taxes The importance of diversification for long-term wealth preservation How proactive tax strategy supports smarter business and investment decisions Learn More About Greg: Collective Liquidity Official Website: About us | Collective Liquidity Resources:    Visit www.vitalstrategies.com to download FREE resources      Listen to the podcast on your favorite app: https://link.chtbl.com/vitalstrategies     Follow on Instagram at https://www.instagram.com/vital.strategies       Follow on Facebook at https://www.facebook.com/VitalStrategiesPodcast      Follow on LinkedIn at https://www.linkedin.com/in/patricklonergan/      Credits:     Sponsored by Vital Wealth     Music by Cephas     Art work by Two Tone Creative  Audio, video, research and copywriting by Victoria O'Brien

Is AI really ready to run parts of your business, or is it just another overhyped tool that creates more confusion than clarity? In this episode of the Vital Wealth Strategies Podcast, host Patrick Lonergan, founder of Vital Wealth, sits down with Steven Saehrig, founder of Descent IT, to cut through the noise and explain what AI actually looks like when implemented correctly inside a real business. Rather than focusing on shiny tools or viral prompts, this conversation gets practical, strategic, and grounded in how entrepreneurs can use AI to increase efficiency, protect their data, and future-proof their organizations. Patrick and Steven explore why AI is best viewed as a workforce multiplier rather than a replacement for people, how businesses should think about the true cost and ROI of AI adoption, and why cybersecurity must be the foundation before any automation is deployed. From real-world examples like AI-driven IT support and agentic workflows to the risks of bad actors using AI for phishing and fraud, this episode gives business owners a clear roadmap for adopting AI intentionally and securely. If you are a founder or executive wondering where to start with AI, how fast to move, and how not to get burned along the way, this episode delivers clarity, context, and actionable insight. Key Takeaways AI is not a magic bullet; it requires intentional planning, investment, and follow-through The biggest opportunity today is using AI to augment people, not replace them Businesses should automate low-value, repetitive tasks first before moving to advanced AI Paid, secure AI tools are essential for protecting business and client data Cybersecurity and identity protection must be in place before scaling AI adoption AI-driven attacks are increasing, making employee training and behavior monitoring critical Companies that delay AI adoption risk falling behind competitors over the next 5–10 years Episode Resources: Descent IT Official Website Anthropic Claude ChatGPT Microsoft Copilot Google Gemini Vital Wealth Strategies Episode 088 Resources:    Visit www.vitalstrategies.com to download FREE resources      Listen to the podcast on your favorite app: https://link.chtbl.com/vitalstrategies     Follow on Instagram at https://www.instagram.com/vital.strategies       Follow on Facebook at https://www.facebook.com/VitalStrategiesPodcast      Follow on LinkedIn at https://www.linkedin.com/in/patricklonergan/      Credits:     Sponsored by Vital Wealth     Music by Cephas     Art work by Two Tone Creative  Audio, video, research and copywriting by Victoria O'Brien

What if the reason you keep falling short of your goals has nothing to do with motivation or discipline? In this episode of the Vital Wealth Strategies Podcast, Patrick Lonergan challenges the way most high performers plan their year and explains why traditional goal setting is often the very thing holding them back. Patrick, founder of Vital Wealth, works with high-earning entrepreneurs to help them optimize cash flow, reduce taxes, and build intentional wealth. In this episode, he makes the case that most people do not have a goal problem at all. They have a systems problem.  Rather than chasing dozens of goals that quickly lose momentum, Patrick walks listeners through a fundamentally different approach: designing a personal and business operating system. This episode breaks down why focusing on one primary objective for life and one for business, supported by simple, repeatable actions, creates real and lasting progress. If you have ever felt frustrated by strong starts followed by fading execution, this conversation will change how you think about planning, productivity, and success.  Key takeaways from this episode:  Why setting too many goals at once leads to worse results, not better ones  The critical difference between goals and systems, and why systems always win  How human attention, decision fatigue, and motivation actually work  Why consistency and repetition outperform intensity and big bursts of effort  How to design a simple operating system for your year that makes progress inevitable  Resources:    Visit www.vitalstrategies.com to download FREE resources      Listen to the podcast on your favorite app: https://link.chtbl.com/vitalstrategies     Follow on Instagram at https://www.instagram.com/vital.strategies       Follow on Facebook at https://www.facebook.com/VitalStrategiesPodcast      Follow on LinkedIn at https://www.linkedin.com/in/patricklonergan/      Credits:     Sponsored by Vital Wealth     Music by Cephas     Art work by Two Tone Creative  Audio, video, research and copywriting by Victoria O'Brien

What if you believe in Jesus but have never actually followed Him? In this special Christmas-week episode of the Vital Wealth Strategies Podcast, host Patrick Lonergan, founder of Vital Wealth, challenges high-achieving entrepreneurs to examine a quiet but unsettling tension many successful people feel. After building businesses, optimizing finances, and doing “all the right things,” why does life still feel incomplete? Patrick explores whether success, discipline, and even belief can exist without true surrender and why that gap matters both now and eternally. In a solo, deeply reflective teaching, Patrick unpacks the difference between cultural Christianity and biblical discipleship, using clear business analogies and direct Scripture to confront false assurance and surface-level belief. This episode is not about religion, performance, or self-improvement. It is about authority, identity, and what it truly means to follow Jesus rather than simply admire Him. If you are a driven, thoughtful leader who has ever wondered whether belief alone is enough, this episode offers clarity, conviction, and a compelling invitation to something deeper. Key takeaways from this episode: Why belief without surrender leads to false assurance The difference between cultural Christianity and true discipleship How success can mask spiritual stagnation Why Jesus calls people to follow, not just agree The role of repentance, faith, and new identity in real transformation Why abiding, not striving, is central to spiritual growth Resources:    Visit www.vitalstrategies.com to download FREE resources      Listen to the podcast on your favorite app: https://link.chtbl.com/vitalstrategies     Follow on Instagram at https://www.instagram.com/vital.strategies       Follow on Facebook at https://www.facebook.com/VitalStrategiesPodcast      Follow on LinkedIn at https://www.linkedin.com/in/patricklonergan/      Credits:     Sponsored by Vital Wealth     Music by Cephas     Art work by Two Tone Creative  Audio, video, research and copywriting by Victoria O'Brien

The biggest threat to your business isn’t external, it’s the blind spots you can’t see. In this episode of The Vital Wealth Podcast, host Patrick Lonergan sits down with Stacey Bullman, founder of I’m Not Mad at You, a consultancy built on 25 years of corporate experience and a decade of transforming small and midsize businesses. Stacey specializes in helping leaders uncover the issues hiding beneath the surface, operational gaps, leadership challenges, misaligned messaging, and missed revenue opportunities and gives them the clarity and confidence they need to move forward. Patrick and Stacey dig into why entrepreneurs rarely diagnose their own problems correctly, how objective assessment accelerates growth, and the systems every business needs to run smoothly and profitably. From strategic planning and accountability frameworks to messaging, sales development, and financial discipline, this conversation offers a practical roadmap for leaders who feel overwhelmed, stuck in the weeds, or unsure where to focus next. It’s a must-listen for anyone ready to make better decisions, build stronger teams, and create a business that truly works. Key Takeaways Why entrepreneurs often overlook the most costly issues inside their own business How Stacey’s Wheel Assessment exposes leadership, cultural, and operational blind spots The CEO hourly value formula and why doing low-value work hurts growth The essential elements of a strategic plan that gets executed, not ignored The messaging framework that clarifies what you do and why it matters Why sales success is built on process, consistency, and data, not personality How accountability and coaching help leaders make better decisions, faster Learn More About Stacey: Official Website: imnotmadatyou.com Resources:    Visit www.vitalstrategies.com to download FREE resources      Listen to the podcast on your favorite app: https://link.chtbl.com/vitalstrategies     Follow on Instagram at https://www.instagram.com/vital.strategies       Follow on Facebook at https://www.facebook.com/VitalStrategiesPodcast      Follow on LinkedIn at https://www.linkedin.com/in/patricklonergan/      Credits:     Sponsored by Vital Wealth     Music by Cephas     Art work by Two Tone Creative  Audio, video, research and copywriting by Victoria O'Brien

What if the business you’ve spent years building is worth far less than you think and what if fixing that starts long before you ever plan to sell? In this episode of the Vital Wealth Podcast, host Patrick Lonergan sits down with serial entrepreneur and exit expert Justin Goodbread, who has started, scaled, and sold seven companies with 7-, 8-, and 9-figure valuations. Together, they unpack why most business owners unknowingly sabotage their future exit, how to build a company that runs without the owner, and the exact framework that transforms a stressful, owner-dependent business into a scalable, transferable, and highly valuable asset. Patrick and Justin walk listeners through the “Deca Millionaire Way,” a five-pillar system rooted in clarity, measurement, thoughtful execution, and long-term freedom. Whether you’re years away from selling or simply want to build a business that gives you more time, more profitability, and more life, this conversation reveals what truly drives enterprise value and why only 4% of sellers walk away satisfied. For any entrepreneur who wants to maximize the payoff of their life’s work, this episode is a must-listen. Key Takeaways: Why most entrepreneurs dramatically underestimate what it takes to create a valuable, sellable business The five F’s every owner must align before scaling or exiting The eight core business areas that drive valuation (and the 256 underlying metrics) How to get yourself out of the “center of the merry-go-round” so the business can run without you The 90-day execution framework that builds momentum and eliminates overwhelm Why exit planning must begin 5–10 years before selling The real definition of entrepreneurial freedom and why it requires becoming a Deca Millionaire Learn More About Justin: Official Website: https://www.justingoodbread.com/ Podcast: Deca Millionaire Decoded Episode Resources: Main Street Millionaire by Cody Sanchez Atomic Habits by James Clear Traction by Gino Wickman Scaling Up by Vern Harnish Resources:    Visit www.vitalstrategies.com to download FREE resources      Listen to the podcast on your favorite app: https://link.chtbl.com/vitalstrategies     Follow on Instagram at https://www.instagram.com/vital.strategies       Follow on Facebook at https://www.facebook.com/VitalStrategiesPodcast      Follow on LinkedIn at https://www.linkedin.com/in/patricklonergan/      Credits:     Sponsored by Vital Wealth     Music by Cephas     Art work by Two Tone Creative  Audio, video, research and copywriting by Victoria O'Brien

What if your financial plan wasn’t just about money but about building a life of freedom, purpose, and peace of mind? In this episode of The Vital Wealth Podcast, host Patrick Lonergan sits down with Mike Milligan, founder of One Oak Financial and author of The One of a Kind Financial Plan. Together, they unpack how the financial industry often overcomplicates wealth management and how individuals can reclaim control through simplicity, education, and values-based decision-making. Mike shares his personal journey from the banking world to teaching financial literacy at Old Dominion University, offering listeners a refreshing perspective on what it means to design a financial plan that truly supports a life well-lived. Listeners will learn how to avoid the traps of a profit-first system, rethink what “wealth” really means, and implement a plan that aligns with their deepest priorities. Patrick and Mike explore topics like financial education, the importance of discernment in money decisions, and why creating “profit with purpose” leads to greater happiness and impact. Whether you’re building your first plan or rethinking your strategy for long-term freedom, this conversation will change the way you view money forever. Key Takeaways: The financial industry profits from complexity, true success comes from simplicity and understanding. “Profit with purpose” is more fulfilling and sustainable than profit alone. Tax planning is the most powerful lever for building long-term wealth. Financial literacy creates freedom and independence. Aligning money with values leads to clarity, confidence, and peace of mind. Learn More About Mike: Official Website: 1oakfinancial.com Ideas by Mike: ideasbymike.com The One of a Kind Financial Plan: mikemilligan.com Resources:    Visit www.vitalstrategies.com to download FREE resources      Listen to the podcast on your favorite app: https://link.chtbl.com/vitalstrategies     Follow on Instagram at https://www.instagram.com/vital.strategies       Follow on Facebook at https://www.facebook.com/VitalStrategiesPodcast      Follow on LinkedIn at https://www.linkedin.com/in/patricklonergan/      Credits:     Sponsored by Vital Wealth     Music by Cephas     Art work by Two Tone Creative  Audio, video, research and copywriting by Victoria O'Brien

Is your business growing but somehow getting harder to manage? In this episode of the Vital Wealth Strategies Podcast, host Patrick Lonergan sits down with Courtney De Ronde, CEO of Forge Financial and Management Consulting, to unpack what it really takes to move from growth to true scale. Together they explore how entrepreneurs can evolve from being the do-it-all founder to a confident leader who builds systems, empowers teams, and creates a business that runs efficiently, without running them into burnout.  Listeners will discover why scaling requires more than just working harder, how to make data-backed decisions, and the mindset shifts needed to build a company that thrives long-term. Packed with practical tools, leadership insight, and strategic frameworks, this conversation offers a roadmap for anyone ready to build structure, clarity, and sustainable profitability.  Key Takeaways:  The difference between growth and scale and why most founders confuse the two  The two essential transformations every entrepreneur must make to scale successfully  How to use business intelligence and KPIs to lead with data, not instinct  The “Diagnose → Design → Drive” framework for continuous improvement  Why clarity in vision, mission, and values is the foundation of scalable leadership  Learn More About Courtney:  Ebook – The Simple Scale-Up System: forgeahead.com/ebook  Scaling Assessment: assessments.forgeahead.com  Forge Financial Website: forgeahead.com  Episode Resources:  The Five Dysfunctions of a Team - Patrick Lencioni   Deep Work - Cal Newport  Essentialism - Greg McKeown  The Four Tendencies- Gretchen Rubin  Full Focus Planner - Michael Hyatt  Resources:    Visit www.vitalstrategies.com to download FREE resources      Listen to the podcast on your favorite app: https://link.chtbl.com/vitalstrategies     Follow on Instagram at https://www.instagram.com/vital.strategies       Follow on Facebook at https://www.facebook.com/VitalStrategiesPodcast      Follow on LinkedIn at https://www.linkedin.com/in/patricklonergan/      Credits:     Sponsored by Vital Wealth     Music by Cephas     Art work by Two Tone Creative  Audio, video, research and copywriting by Victoria O'Brien  

What if your business could land in The Wall Street Journal or Good Morning, without spending a fortune on traditional PR? In this episode of the Vital Wealth Strategies Podcast, host Patrick Lonergan sits down with Mickie Kennedy, founder of eReleases, to uncover how entrepreneurs can use strategic press releases to build lasting credibility and attract national media attention. They dive deep into the storytelling techniques that capture journalists’ interest, the evolving world of PR in the age of AI, and how earned media can amplify trust far beyond what ads and social media can deliver.  Patrick and Mickie also discuss how small businesses can leverage PR as a cornerstone of their overall marketing and wealth-building strategy. From creating a powerful story arc to understanding how press coverage impacts SEO, lead generation, and conversions, this conversation is packed with actionable insights to help business owners stand out, scale faster, and become recognized authorities in their industries.  Key Takeaways:  How to craft press releases that capture media attention and generate earned coverage.  Why storytelling, not sales copy, is the secret to PR success.  The role of credibility and media features in increasing conversions and reducing ad spend.  How AI is reshaping media visibility and what that means for entrepreneurs.  Simple ways to integrate PR into your larger marketing and financial strategy.  Learn More About Mickie:  Official Website: https://www.ereleases.com  Free Masterclass: https://www.ereleases.com/plan  Resources:    Visit www.vitalstrategies.com to download FREE resources      Listen to the podcast on your favorite app: https://link.chtbl.com/vitalstrategies     Follow on Instagram at https://www.instagram.com/vital.strategies       Follow on Facebook at https://www.facebook.com/VitalStrategiesPodcast      Follow on LinkedIn at https://www.linkedin.com/in/patricklonergan/      Credits:     Sponsored by Vital Wealth     Music by Cephas     Art work by Two Tone Creative  Audio, video, research and copywriting by Victoria O'Brien