Ask Brien Show

Welcome to the Ask Brien Radio Show with hosts Peter Bronstein and Traci DeForge. This engaging episode delves into Chris Skates' multifaceted career, exploring his evolution from a chemist to a successful writer and political advisor. Chris recounts his experiences writing for the Governor of Kentucky and the Trump administration, offering insights into the world of political speechwriting. The discussion takes an emotional turn as Chris shares his battle with leukemia and how it inspired him to publish his grandfather's story. The hosts and Chris also touch on the changing landscape of publishing and offer advice for aspiring writers.IN THIS EPISODE: (00:00) Intro and show background(09:08) Chris Skates' transition from chemist to full-time writer(19:25) Speechwriting and political appointments(24:36) Writing for the President and Vice President(26:19) Dramatic health crisis and rare leukemia diagnosis(30:51) New book “Moonshine over Georgia”(34:48) Self-publishing vs traditional publishing adviceKEY TAKEAWAYS:Persistence and adaptability are crucial for transitioning from one career to anotherPolitical speechwriting requires a deep understanding of policy issues and the ability to quickly adapt to high-pressure situations.Self-publishing offers more control and potentially better returns for authors compared to traditional publishing in today's market.Personal experiences and family history can serve as powerful inspiration for compelling storytelling and book ideas.LINKS MENTIONED:Chris Skates TwitterFacebook: Chris SkatesAmazon: Chris Skates Author PageAmazon: Chris Skates BooksBIO Chris Skates, former speechwriter and policy advisor for two administrations, and a Chemist for 30 years, is the author of four novels and over 300 articles and short stories. Chris is a throwback to old Southern cultural traditions based in faith, history, tradition and regional cuisine. Chris was born in Georgia and has been a resident of 5 Southern states and 25 towns in his lifetime. Chris currently resides in Kentucky with his wife, adult children and two grandchildren. His life's journey has allowed him to know a broad variety of characters and personalities which are woven into the tapestry of his stories. Those stories are engaging, rich, and often witty, transporting the reader to a different place and time. His writing draws on his experiences as a nearly constant "new kid in town", his background in science, as well as his love of reading on a broad variety of topics.

This week on the Ask Brien radio show, we're thrilled to welcome Andrew Brown, CEO and co-founder of Tool Fetch, a one-stop shop for tradespeople's equipment needs. Andrew shares his inspiring journey from a tech professional to a leading advocate for the skilled trades industry. Discover how the events of 9/11 shaped his entrepreneurial path and learn about the challenges he faced in building a successful e-commerce business in 2001 and the critical shortage of skilled workers in various trades. Tune in to explore the importance of mentorship and the vast opportunities within the skilled trades sector.IN THIS EPISODE: (00:00) Introduction to Ask Brien radio show(08:13) Andrew Brown's background and founding of Tool Fetch(14:15) Challenges of starting an e-commerce business(18:35) The importance of mentorship in business(24:58) Skilled trades industry overview and opportunities(29:40) Skilled Trades Advisory Council and conclusionKEY TAKEAWAYS:Entrepreneurial Resilience: Andrew emphasizes the need for belief in oneself and persistence, especially when facing initial setbacks like not making money in the first year.Mentorship Matters: The value of seeking guidance and surrounding oneself with the right people is crucial for business growth.Skilled Trades Opportunities: With a significant shortage in skilled trades, Andrew advocates for these careers as viable and lucrative opportunities.LINKS MENTIONED:Tool Fetch WebsiteTool Fetch YouTube ChannelAndrew Brown on LinkedInLost Art of the Skilled Trades PodcastVistage WebsiteBIO Andrew Brown is the CEO and co-founder of Tool Fetch, an e-commerce platform specializing in tools and equipment for the skilled trades. With a background in technology, Andrew transitioned into entrepreneurship following the events of 9/11, driven by a passion for supporting tradespeople. He is actively involved in the Skilled Trades Advisory Council, advocating for the recruitment and retention of skilled workers.

The Ask Brien podcast dives  into entrepreneurship and business success with host Peter Bronstein and co-host Alex Grossman. Alex shares his wealth of knowledge gained from various business ventures. The discussion covers key challenges faced by entrepreneurs, essential steps for business success, and the importance of proper business structure. Peter Bronstein adds valuable legal perspectives, while the team explores retail business intricacies and the significance of market research. The episode provides a comprehensive guide for aspiring and current business owners.IN THIS EPISODE: [5:55] Challenges of entrepreneurship and business ownership[12:49] Legal structures for businesses explained[21:18] Marketing strategies for small retail businesses[30:45] Resources for aspiring entrepreneurs[34:35] Key people and skills needed when starting a businessKEY TAKEAWAYS:Thorough market research and understanding your target demographic are crucial for business success, especially in retail.Proper business structure, such as forming an LLC or corporation, can protect personal assets and limit liability.Entrepreneurs must be prepared to work long hours and face challenges, but the potential for building a valuable asset makes it worthwhile.Surrounding yourself with key professionals, particularly in finance and legal areas, is essential for navigating business complexities.LINKS MENTIONED:AskBrien.comGoogle Business ServicesYelp for BusinessBIO Alex Grossman is an experienced entrepreneur with a diverse background in retail, manufacturing, and software development. His current focus is on retail business operations. Alex brings valuable insights from his experiences as an inventor, innovator, and business owner across various industries. His practical approach to entrepreneurship and market analysis provides listeners with actionable advice for their own business ventures.

The Ask Brien podcast welcomes Dr. Gina Williams, CEO of Mobility Health Physical Therapy, to discuss the importance of work-life balance and physical well-being for entrepreneurs. Hosts Peter Bronstein and Traci DeForge delve into Dr. Williams' transition from working in a "physical therapy factory" to founding her own mobile physical therapy practice. The conversation covers the benefits of delegating tasks, maintaining work-life balance, and practical tips for office ergonomics. Dr. Williams shares insights on scaling a business while prioritizing quality care and personal well-being, offering valuable advice for entrepreneurs in any field.IN THIS EPISODE: [7:52] Dr. Gina's journey from burnout to business owner[13:30] Mobility Health Physical Therapy's unique approach[21:20] Balancing work and personal life as an entrepreneur[26:50] Office ergonomics: Tips for staying healthy at your desk[35:26] Telemedicine expansion plansKEY TAKEAWAYS:Personalized care is at the heart of Mobility Health Physical Therapy, offering flexibility with in-home visits and telehealth services.Delegation is crucial for scaling a business—hiring a virtual assistant can significantly boost productivity and income.Maintaining a work-life balance is essential for entrepreneurs, allowing them to attend to family needs without guilt.Regular breaks and proper ergonomics are crucial for maintaining physical health and flexibility during long workdays.LINKS MENTIONED:Mobility Health Physical TherapyAbout Dr. Gina WilliamsDr. Gina Williams - LinkedInDr. Gina's Podcast: Health, Wealth and Relationships Thriving in the Balancing ActSacral Relief Cushions on AmazonAskBrien.comBIO Dr. Gina Williams is the CEO of Mobility Health Physical Therapy, a practice dedicated to providing personalized care through mobile and telehealth services. With a passion for helping others and a commitment to flexibility, Dr. Gina has built a business that supports both her clients' health and her family's needs. Her journey from a high-pressure work environment to successful entrepreneurship is a testament to her dedication and vision.

In this episode of the Ask Brien podcast, host Peter Bronstein and guest-host Alex Grossman dive into the crucial topic of corporate compliance for small businesses. They’ll explore the intricacies of the Corporate Transparency Act, which requires businesses to file a Beneficial Ownership Information Report. They break down who needs to file, the penalties for non-compliance, and how to complete the filing process. The conversation also covers other vital compliance tasks, including maintaining corporate minutes, appointing a registered agent, and filing annual reports with the Secretary of State.IN THIS EPISODE: [10:35] Who needs to file beneficial ownership reports[15:34] Penalties for failing to file reports[19:58] How to file beneficial ownership reports[24:26] The importance of corporate minutes and resolutions[29:17] Consequences of not keeping proper records[32:13] Four key compliance requirements for businesses[34:45] Legal Steps compliance package detailsKEY TAKEAWAYS:Corporate Transparency Act Surprise: The new law targets small businesses, not big corporations. Companies formed through state secretaries must file a Beneficial Ownership Information report by December 31, 2024, or face steep penalties.Minutes Matter for LLCs: While not legally required, keeping minutes for LLCs can protect owners from personal liability. This simple practice could be the difference between financial safety and personal ruin in a lawsuit.One-Stop Compliance Solution: Legal service providers now offer comprehensive corporate compliance packages. These bundles can include Beneficial Ownership reports, annual minutes, registered agent services, and state filings - simplifying the process for busy entrepreneurs.LINKS MENTIONED:FinCEN Website