Behind Their Success: Advice For Entrepreneurs

Imagine losing your entire fortune before you could legally drink… and then rebuilding a multimillion-dollar business by 21. That’s exactly what today’s guest, Andrew McNair, did. From setbacks to success, he’s built an empire grounded in purpose, faith, and financial wisdom. Today we dive deep into how Andrew turned failure into fuel — and how you can do the same. 💡 What You’ll Learn: How Andrew went from broke teenager to multimillionaire by age 21. Why true wealth isn’t about your net worth — it’s about your self-worth. The critical difference between building wealth and keeping wealth through diversification. Why every entrepreneur needs a succession and exit plan (even if you never plan to sell). The mindset shift from “owning your job” to owning a scalable business. How faith and generosity can amplify your financial and personal growth. The surprising way Andrew uses AI and classic business wisdom to think strategically. The daily routines that keep successful entrepreneurs mentally sharp and spiritually grounded. Episode Highlights: The Rich Dad Poor Dad lesson that changed Andrew’s financial destiny. How losing $147,000 became the best personal development experience of his life. The philosophy behind SWAN Capital (“Sleep Well At Night Capital”) and true wealth management. Why profit first and purpose always is a winning formula for entrepreneurs. How aligning your business with your beliefs creates authentic, lasting success. About Today’s Guest: Andrew McNair is a bestselling author, wealth advisor, and host of the Rich, Young, and Powerful podcast. He’s the founder of SWAN Capital, where he helps families and business owners create generational wealth through smart finance, philanthropy, and purposeful living. 📘 Check out Andrew’s book The Giving Crisis: From Greedy to Generous — where he shares how he gave away most of his net worth and half of his firm’s profits to live out his values. 🎧 Listen to Rich, Young, and Powerful on Spotify or Apple Podcasts 🌐 Learn more at swan-capital.com 💼 About Paden Squires & Squires Tax Planning: This episode is hosted by Paden Squires, CPA, founder of Squires Tax Planning— a firm dedicated to helping entrepreneurs and high-income earners legally and ethically pay the least amount of tax possible through proactive tax strategy and financial planning. If you’re an entrepreneur tired of just “tax prep” and want real tax planning that grows your wealth, visit squirestaxplanning.com to take the free tax assessment or book a discovery call. 🙌 Connect & Continue the Conversation: 🎧 Listen to more episodes of Behind Their Success wherever you get your podcasts. 🌐 Follow Paden on social media or visit paden­squires.com for tips on entrepreneurship, finance, and personal development. 📩 Don’t forget to subscribe, rate, and share this episode — it helps us reach more purpose-driven entrepreneurs like you.

What if you could turn deep debt, zero online presence, and total uncertainty into a million-dollar coaching business—without spending a dime on ads? Jeanne did exactly that. In this episode, Jeanne shares how she went from a single mom in her 50s, struggling to find clients offline, to building a multi–7-figure organic marketing empire. Her story proves it’s never too late to reinvent yourself—and that you don’t need funnels or paid traffic to win big as an entrepreneur. Inside This Episode: Jeanne’s turning point: going from overwhelmed and in debt to generating $30,000 in 12 weeks through organic marketing. How she built a million-dollar business in just 17 months—with 92% profit margins. The truth about why most coaches struggle to get clients and how to fix it fast. Why simplicity beats complexity in business and how “less is more” when it comes to offers. The power of human connection in the AI era and why authentic, heart-to-heart marketing will always win. Jeanne’s mindset rituals—like her “instant shift” technique and gratitude practice—that keep her aligned and unstoppable. Her advice for entrepreneurs ready to ditch fear, simplify their strategy, and go all in on their next level. Top Takeaway: You don’t need a huge team, complicated funnels, or paid ads to grow a thriving business—you need clarity, consistency, and the courage to talk to real people. As Jeanne says: “Don’t be afraid. You can do this.” Connect with Jeanne: Visit jeanneomlor.com to see hundreds of client testimonials and book a call with her team. Listen to her podcast: Business Wealth Impact Key points: marketing, organic marketing, entrepreneur, founder

What if the real key to scaling your business isn’t what you need to start doing—but what you need to stop doing? That’s the question we dig into today with my guest, Tara Landes, a management consultant out of Vancouver who’s helped hundreds of entrepreneurs and leaders cut through the noise, stop firefighting, and actually build businesses that serve their goals—not trap them inside. This conversation is packed with wisdom for high achievers and business owners who feel stuck in the grind. Tara shares real stories of entrepreneurs who went from overwhelmed and overworked to building systems, empowering teams, and unlocking real freedom. We cover: Why leadership is about being the decider, not just the visionary The difference between symptoms and root problems in business How to stop being the firefighter in your own company Why strategic planning isn’t an event—it’s a continuous process The psychology behind avoiding tough decisions (and how to reframe them) What it really takes to scale as an entrepreneur without burning out And as many of you know, I don’t just talk leadership and personal development—I live it in my own practice. At Squires Tax Planning, I work alongside entrepreneurs and high achievers every day, helping them keep more of what they make through proactive and ethical tax strategies. Because let’s be honest—when your systems are dialed in and your taxes are optimized, that’s when you unlock real freedom to focus on what matters most. Tara leaves us with a simple but powerful reminder: If money can solve your problem, you don’t really have a problem. Connect with Tara Landes 👉 Website: bellrock.ca 👉 LinkedIn: Tara Landes Let’s Stay Connected If you enjoyed today’s episode, please rate, review, and share the show. That’s how we grow and keep bringing you conversations that help create more healthy, wealthy, and wise entrepreneurs. You can always find me at: 🌐 www.padensquires.com 📲 Social: Search @padensquires on your favorite platform 💼 Tax Planning: www.squirestaxplanning.com — take the free assessment and find out if you’re overpaying in taxes

Tired of excuses? Today's guest, Keren Gonen proves that no one can hold you back but you. From immigrant beginnings to running the top real estate business in her county, she’s living proof that relentless service and grit win every time. Her journey is one every entrepreneur, high achiever, and personal development junkie needs to hear. Keren’s story proves that success isn’t just about transactions—it’s about transforming lives, building community, and doing it with authenticity. We cover: How being an immigrant shaped her entrepreneurial mindset. Why customer service is the biggest competitive advantage in any business. The importance of saying no to protect your time and energy. How to stay grounded, present, and focused while chasing big goals. The daily habits and mindset shifts that keep her operating at a high level. Keren’s outlook is a masterclass in resilience and personal growth—you’ll leave this one motivated to just do it. Where to Find Keren 📱 Cell: (551)262-4062 📲 Instagram & Facebook: @KerenGonenRealEstateBroker 🔖 Hashtag: #KerenCares About Your Host – Paden Squires Hey, I’m Paden Squires—CPA, entrepreneur, and the owner of Squires Tax Planning. If you’re a business owner or high income earner, chances are you’re overpaying in taxes because you only have a tax preparer and not a tax planner. At Squires Tax Planning, we work alongside entrepreneurs and high achievers to create proactive strategies that save you real money. 💻 Take the free assessment at squirestaxplanning.com to see if you’re overpaying the IRS. From there, you can book a free tax discovery call with our team.

In this episode of Behind Their Success, I sit down with Tom Dunkel, an entrepreneur and investment expert, who transformed a financial crisis into a thriving multi-million dollar business. Tom shares his inspiring journey from corporate VP to overcoming the challenges of the 2008 market crash. Discover how he adopted the SAFE investing method, a strategic approach to evaluating investment opportunities, and learn about the importance of mentorship and surrounding yourself with the right people. Tom's insights into resilience and growth will empower you to embrace challenges and pursue your entrepreneurial dreams. Join us for a conversation filled with valuable advice and practical strategies to help you navigate your own path to success.

What if the biggest bottleneck in your business isn’t your strategy, your market, or even your team—but you? In this episode, we dive into the idea that true growth for entrepreneurs and small business owners starts from the inside out. High achievers often think scaling means doing more, but as Leila Lahbabi reveals, lasting success comes from personal development, conscious leadership, and aligning your business with who you are at your core. In this episode, we talk about: Why personal development is the secret ingredient to building a business that lasts How high achievers often fall into burnout—and how to break the cycle Why your business will never outgrow you (and what to do about it) The balance between hustle, scaling, and actually enjoying your life as an entrepreneur The “CLAP” methodology for leadership, teams, and scaling from the inside out This one is packed with wisdom, stories, and practical strategies for entrepreneurs and small business owners who want to build both profit and purpose. 👉 Connect with Leila: LinkedIn: https://fr.linkedin.com/in/leilalahbabiimpactstrategy Instagram: @leilalhb Podcast: Billion Dollar Purpose YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@leilalahbabi Tax Services: Squires Tax Planning is where we help high achievers, entrepreneurs, and small business owners pay the least amount of tax legally and ethically. My team and I have saved clients hundreds of thousands of dollars through proactive strategies most tax preparers never bring up. If you’re tired of just filing taxes and want to see what true tax planning looks like, head over to squirestaxplanning.com . Take the free assessment to find out if you’re overpaying and book a discovery call with our team.

What if the secret to building wealth, health, and freedom wasn’t in a quick fix, but in compounding small decisions over time? Today’s episode will light a fire under every small business owner and entrepreneur who wants to grow their business and their life at the same time. In this conversation, I sit down with Mike Milligan, founder of Ideas by Mike and 1.Oak Financial. Mike’s journey started at his grandmother’s dining room table, selling collared sandwiches at construction sites, and has grown into decades of helping entrepreneurs create purpose-driven wealth. We dive into: Mike’s personal health transformation—losing over 100 pounds by “planning his health like his money.” The lessons he learned from his grandmother that shaped his entrepreneur mindset. Why compounding small actions is the real way to grow your business and yourself. The advantages and challenges of living and running a business in Puerto Rico (and the tax strategies behind it). The critical difference between a tax preparer and a true tax planner. Why entrepreneurs must pay themselves first and learn to own their business—instead of letting their business own them. If you’re an entrepreneur chasing personal development while trying to grow your business, this episode is packed with wisdom and practical steps. Connect with Mike: – COMING SOON: his books The One-of-a-Kind Financial Plan and Retirement Déjà Vu 👉 Website: www.1oakfinancial.com Follow Mike on LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/mikemilligancfp/ Are you a small business owner tired of overpaying the IRS? Here’s the truth: most CPAs are historians—they file what already happened. But real money is saved through tax planning, not tax prep. At Squires Tax Planning, we work with entrepreneurs and high-income earners to legally and ethically minimize taxes. We’ve saved clients hundreds of thousands of dollars through strategies their previous preparer never mentioned. ✅ Take our free tax assessment at squirestaxplanning.com to see if you’re likely overpaying. ✅ Book a free discovery call and find out how much tax you can save this year. If this episode brought you value, do me a favor: rate, review, and share the podcast. That’s how we keep helping entrepreneurs become healthier, wealthier, and wiser. And connect with me on social media or at paydensquires.com where I share daily tips on entrepreneurship and personal development. Mike Milligan is an investment advisor representative of Advisory Alpha, LLC, a SEC registered investment advisor. All opinions expressed by Mike Milligan are solely his own opinions and do not reflect the opinions of Advisory Alpha, LLC, and as such, any and all statements of purported or observed general practices of non-affiliated firms and advisors; conditions of the broad financial services industry; or performance or returns with regards to products, securities, markets, or otherwise, whether or not advisor indicates they may be relying on third-party data or sources, are solely the opinions and/or interpretations of the advisor and are not intended to be offered as factual. The validity of these statements has not been verified, and as such, no representations of their validity are made. This recording is for informational purposes only and should not be relied upon for investment decisions. Investment advisory and financial planning services offered through Advisory Alpha, LLC, a Registered Investment Advisor. Insurance, coaching, and education services offered through Ideas by Mike, LLC, DBA 1.oak Financial. Ideas by Mike, LLC, DBA 1.oak Financial, Paden Squires - Behind Their Success Podcast are separate and unaffiliated entities from Advisory Alpha, LLC. While tax and legal issues may be discussed in the general course of financial and investment planning, Advisory Alpha does not provide tax or legal services.

Ever wonder why so many high achievers and entrepreneurs hit their goals yet still feel empty? That’s exactly what today’s guest, Grace Najean, is here to unpack. Grace is a French-Korean leadership mentor, former Tony Robbins Master Coach, and founder of the Soulfluence Method. With over 5,000 hours coaching top leaders, she blends neuroscience, energy work, and spiritual wisdom to help ambitious small business owners and entrepreneurs transform achievement into true alignment and fulfillment. We dive deep into: Why so many high achievers fall into the “knowledge trap” The concept of achievement fatigue and how to recognize it in your life Moving from 3D (strategy, logic, grind) to 4D (awareness) to 5D (alignment + consciousness) Practical steps entrepreneurs and small business owners can take to move out of survival mode and into alignment How Grace rebuilt her life and energy by integrating body, mind, and consciousness Grace doesn’t just teach this—she lives it. She’s helping leaders and entrepreneurs break free from the endless chase for external validation and step into a more powerful, authentic version of themselves. 👉 Connect with Grace: www.gracenajean.com Follow her on Instagram: @gracenajean If you’re a high achiever or small business owner, chances are you’re overpaying in taxes. Most people just have a tax preparer—but what you really need is a tax planner. At Squires Tax Planning, we work alongside entrepreneurs and high-income earners to legally and ethically minimize taxes, often saving clients hundreds of thousands of dollars. Through proactive planning, we guarantee we’ll uncover multiple strategies your current preparer hasn’t told you about. 👉 Take our free assessment at squirestaxplanning.com to see if you’re overpaying, and book your free discovery call today. If this episode hit home, share it with a fellow entrepreneur or small business owner who could use a mindset shift. And don’t forget to rate, review, and subscribe to Behind Their Success so we can keep building this community of healthy, wealthy, and wise entrepreneurs.

Ever feel like you’re grinding in your business but not really growing it? Today’s episode is for you. I sat down with Eric Brotman — Certified Financial Planner, CEO of BFG Financial Advisors, author, and host of Don’t Retire...Graduate! With over 25 years of experience helping entrepreneurs and families achieve financial freedom, Eric brings the kind of wisdom you can’t Google. We talk about: Why the first 5 years of entrepreneurship usually suck (and why that’s the entry fee). How to work on your business, not just in it. Playing to your strengths vs. fixing weaknesses — and why joy in your work matters more than money. Redefining success: from survival → growth → impact. The mindset shifts every entrepreneur needs for long-term business growth and personal development. Eric’s story is a masterclass in entrepreneurship, leadership, and financial planning. Whether you’re just starting out, scaling your firm, or thinking about succession, you’ll walk away with practical insight and a renewed drive to keep building. 🎧 Tune in and hear why success isn’t just about wealth, it’s about creating freedom and impact — in business and in life. Squires Tax Planning – Stop Overpaying the IRS A quick reminder — most entrepreneurs aren’t working with a tax planner, they’re working with a tax preparer. There’s a huge difference. At Squires Tax Planning, we specialize in helping entrepreneurs and high-income earners pay the least amount of income taxes legally possible. Our clients have saved hundreds of thousands of dollars by implementing proactive strategies their old preparer never mentioned. If you’re serious about business growth, personal development, and building long-term wealth, you need to be intentional about your tax plan. 👉 Take our free assessment at squirestaxplanning.com to see if you’re overpaying. You can also book a free discovery call with our team to learn how strategic tax planning can accelerate your financial freedom. Connect with Eric Brotman: Podcast: Don’t Retire, Graduate Book: Don’t Retire...Graduate! Website: BFG Financial Advisors 👉 If you found this episode valuable, do me a huge favor: rate, review, and share the podcast. That’s the best way to help us reach more entrepreneurs who are chasing growth and personal development. Follow me, Paden Squires, for more tips on entrepreneurship, business growth, and tax planning strategies: Website: squirestaxplanning.com Instagram / LinkedIn: @padensquires Let’s keep building healthy, wealthy, and wise entrepreneurs.

What does it really take to walk away from the security of a steady career and step into the unknown world of entrepreneurship? In this episode of Behind Their Success, I sit down with David Sauers, co-founder and CEO of Royal Restrooms, to unpack his journey from local banker to national franchise builder. David shares how one frustrating porta-potty experience with his daughters sparked the idea for a business that would disrupt an entire industry. We dive into the realities of leaving behind a safe job, the mindset shifts every small business owner must face, and how personal development becomes just as important as business growth. Whether you’re an aspiring entrepreneur or already running a business, David’s story is packed with lessons on resilience, family balance, and turning obstacles into opportunities. We dive deep into: -The origin story of Royal Restrooms and how frustration turned into innovation. -What it really takes to leave behind the comfort of a paycheck to become a small business owner. -Why failure isn’t the end—it’s part of the process of growth and personal development. -The sacrifices, lessons, and mindset shifts required to build a company that lasts. -Balancing family, business, and the constant challenges of entrepreneurship. David’s journey is a perfect reminder that success often comes from being willing to take one more step when most people would quit. 👉 Where to connect with David: Website: royalrestrooms.com LinkedIn: Search David Sauers Follow Royal Restrooms on all major social platforms If you’re a small business owner or entrepreneur tired of overpaying taxes, this is for you. I run Squires Tax Planning, where we help entrepreneurs and high-income earners save thousands through proactive tax strategies. Most accountants just file your taxes. We plan them—so you keep more of what you earn. Take our free tax assessment and book a discovery call at 👉 squirestaxplanning.com

Avoiding mistakes is priceless. If you’re a small business owner, entrepreneur, or high achiever chasing personal development and growth, this conversation is going to hit home. I sat down with William Holsten—a seasoned entrepreneur, inventor, bestselling author, and the “Business Mistake Prevention Specialist.” With nearly 40 years in global marketing and innovation plus his own entrepreneurial ventures (including a patented carnival game that’s still around today), William has seen it all—the wins, the setbacks, and the costly mistakes. We dive into: The biggest preventable mistakes entrepreneurs make and how to spot them early How to “goof proof” your business with William’s 10 practical tools Why self-awareness might be the #1 superpower for small business owners The underrated role of structure and planning in fueling creativity and long-term success How reframing your perspective (like Charlie Munger’s “invert” principle) can save your business from disaster This episode is full of small business tips and strategies you can put into practice today. If you’re serious about growth, scaling, and protecting your business from “uh oh” moments, you’ll want to take notes. Connect with William Holsten 👉 Visit williamholsten.com to grab his free $10,000 Mistake Checklist and learn more about his work helping entrepreneurs avoid costly blunders. Let’s Talk Taxes And hey—if you’re an entrepreneur or high-income earner, here’s the deal: most business owners are overpaying in taxes because they’ve got a tax preparer, not a tax planner. That’s where I come in. At Squires Tax Planning, we work alongside small business owners and high achievers to proactively plan, legally minimize taxes, and keep more of your hard-earned money. 👉 Take our free assessment at squirestaxplanning.com to see if you’re leaving money on the table. From there, you can book a free discovery call with my team and me. Final Note If this episode helped you, please rate, review, and share the podcast. That’s the best way to help us reach more entrepreneurs and keep building a community of healthy, wealthy, and wise leaders.

After a near-fatal car accident, Alan came face to face with his own mortality—and it lit a fire that transformed his entire life. From abandonment issues to financial struggles, he turned his pain into purpose, building Next Level University, a top-ranked personal development podcast and thriving coaching business. In this episode, Alan and I dive into: How tragedy sparked his obsession with personal development Why entrepreneurs and small business owners must master compounding habits to succeed The mindset shift that took him from six figures in corporate to helping thousands of people reach their full potential Why environment is everything—and how to create one that pulls you forward instead of dragging you back The #1 meta-habit Alan swears by that keeps him and his clients growing every single day This conversation is raw, real, and full of lessons that every entrepreneur needs to hear. If you’re chasing success but feel like something’s missing, Alan’s story will hit home. 👉 Connect with Alan directly on Instagram, LinkedIn, or Facebook (he personally answers his DMs). Just search Alan Lazaros and you’ll find him. You can also check out Next Level University wherever you get your podcasts. If you found value in this episode, please rate, review, and share the show. That’s how we reach more entrepreneurs and small business owners who are hungry to grow into the best versions of themselves. Follow me on social media or visit padensquires.com for more tips, resources, and behind-the-scenes content. 👉 Ready to find out if you’re overpaying taxes? Take our free tax assessment at squirestaxplanning.com. From there, you can also book a free discovery call with our team and see what it looks like to have a true tax planner in your corner.

It's our 100th EPISODE! Today we are talking about six lessons every Entrepreneur needs to hear after interviewing 100 entrepreneurs. After sitting down with over a hundred risk-takers, game-changers, and trailblazers, I’ve pulled together my top six lessons that will completely shift the way you think about business. If you’re an entrepreneur or small business owner looking for real business tips that go beyond the Instagram fluff, this one’s for you. In this milestone episode of Behind Their Success, I’m pulling back the curtain on the most powerful takeaways from our first 100 episodes—things I wish I knew when I was just starting out. We’re talking: 1️⃣ Think Bigger Than You Think is Possible – stop capping your dreams at your current abilities. 2️⃣ Build Systems, Not Just Skill – the real secret to scaling. 3️⃣ Purpose Over Profits – why alignment fuels longevity. 4️⃣ Become a Decision Maker, Not Just a Doer – escape the daily grind. 5️⃣ Embrace Continuous Learning & Humility – stay coachable to stay ahead. 6️⃣ Say Yes Early, Say No Later – the art of focus as you grow. Whether you’re grinding from your living room or running a multi-million-dollar company, these lessons apply. And trust me—they’ve been tested by the best in the business. 💡 CALL TO ACTION: If you’re tired of overpaying taxes and want a CPA who actually helps you strategically keep more of your money, head over to SquiresTaxPlanning.com. Take our free assessment, find out if you’re overpaying, and let’s put some money back in your pocket—legally and ethically. 📲 Follow me on Instagram @PadenSquires for more entrepreneur insights, small business tips, and behind-the-scenes of running a business. 🎧 Listen now and let’s make your next 100 moves count.

Ever feel like your small business or personal growth journey is one step forward, two steps back? Or maybe you’re stuck in that loop of self-doubt, playing small, and waiting for “someday” to arrive. Today’s episode will change that. I’m sitting down with Martin Salama — certified life coach, entrepreneur, strategist, and creator of the Warrior’s Life Code. Martin went from losing everything in 2008 to building an abundant life and helping entrepreneurs crush their scarcity mindset. He’s sharing powerful personal development tips, mindset tools, and real stories that will help you go from worrier to warrior. We dig into: The difference between self-consciousness vs. self-awareness and why it’s the key to lasting confidence. Martin’s “Stop–Think–Respond” method to rewire your reactions and lead with strength. How small business owners can pivot faster than the big guys and use it as their competitive advantage. Simple mindset tips to overcome scarcity thinking and start operating from abundance. Why gratitude is the fastest way to shift your day and your results. If you’ve been craving practical tools to level up your mindset and your business, this one’s a goldmine. Where to find Martin: 👉 connectwithmartin.com – Book a conversation, grab his book Worrier to Warrior, and check out his coaching programs. 👉 YouTube – Search Martin Salama for his short, powerful mindset videos. If you found value in this episode, please rate, review, and share it. Let’s help more entrepreneurs get healthy, wealthy, and wise. Follow me, Paden Squires: 🌐 padensquires.com 📱 Instagram, Facebook, LinkedIn – @PadenSquires Tired of Overpaying in Taxes? Most entrepreneurs don’t have a tax planner—they have a tax preparer. That means they’re missing out on strategies that could save them thousands (sometimes hundreds of thousands). We work alongside small business owners and high-income earners to legally and proactively cut your tax bill. We guarantee we’ll find multiple tax savings strategies your current preparer hasn’t told you about. 📅 Book your free strategy call today: padensquires.com

Everybody wants the big wins—but nobody talks about the boring part. The slow, unsexy grind. The daily reps. The posts nobody sees. The podcast episodes that only get 12 downloads. But that’s where the magic happens. That’s compounding—and it’s everything. In this episode, I sit down with Portland startup, Rick Turoczy, and we dive into how showing up consistently in business, in relationships, and in content leads to explosive long-term growth. Rick shares what it really takes to build strong entrepreneurial communities, how failure is just data, and why putting yourself out there—even when it’s rough—is the only way to break through. Whether you’re a solo founder, small business owner, or just getting into personal development, this one hits deep. Rick drops straight wisdom on mindset, vulnerability, and why playing the long game—brick by brick—is what actually works. What You’ll Learn: Why community is a non-negotiable for entrepreneurs The myth of the “overnight success” and what really goes down How failure is just your First Attempt In Learning (F.A.I.L.) Why personal development must precede business growth How to start putting yourself out there—even if you suck at first Connect with Rick: Check out Rick’s work and writing on the Silicon Florist blog and learn more about the Portland Incubator Experiment (PIE). You’ll see exactly how he's shaping the future of entrepreneurship in the PNW. 👉 https://www.siliconflorist.com 🙌 Connect with Paden: If you want high-level tax strategy that keeps more money in your pocket and helps scale your business: 📍 squirestaxplanning.com 🎯 Take the free tax savings assessment 📞 Book your free tax discovery call Follow Paden on social for tips on entrepreneurship, money, and mindset: 📱 Instagram + LinkedIn: @PadenSquires 🌐 padensquires.com

In this episode, we dive deep into what it really takes to go from corporate structure to the unpredictable world of entrepreneurship. If you've ever thought, “I don't know if I can run my own business,” Vicky Brown's journey proves that you absolutely can—with the right mindset, support, and continuous learning. This episode is full of practical gold for entrepreneurs—especially those transitioning from a corporate career or still trying to do everything themselves. We talk mindset shifts, sales struggles, building teams, delegating (yes, finally letting go), and why HR isn’t just about paperwork—it's about people. What You’ll Learn: How Vicky accidentally became an entrepreneur (and why she originally said “absolutely not!”) The surprising overlap between opera performance and business strategy What most new business owners miss when leaving corporate life Why delegation isn’t just helpful—it’s necessary How to stop being the bottleneck in your business growth Tips for hiring, interviewing, and building an aligned team How to access your best ideas (hint: it’s not in front of your laptop) Keypoints: entrepreneur, entrepreneurship, business growth, HR for entrepreneurs, hiring tips, delegation in business, Vicky Brown, entrepreneurship mindset, building a leadership team, transitioning from corporate to business owner 🙌 Connect with Vicky Brown: 🎁 Get her free gift + connect directly at: vickybrownhr.com/podcastgift 🚀 Want to Pay Less in Taxes? If you're an entrepreneur or high-income earner tired of just having a “tax preparer” instead of a tax planner — head over to squirestaxplanning.com to take our free assessment and book your discovery call. We’re here to make sure you're not overpaying Uncle Sam, legally and ethically. 🧠 Stay Connected: 👉 Follow me on Instagram, LinkedIn, and all the places: @PadenSquires 🌐 More tips and resources at: padensquires.com 🎙️ And don’t forget — rate, review, and share the podcast! Let’s help create more healthy, wealthy, and wise entrepreneurs.

Are you building your business to sell—or just to survive? In today’s episode of Behind Their Success, I sit down with the powerhouse himself, Sal Tirabassi—a seasoned fractional CFO, private equity investor, and the guy behind CFO Pro + Analytics. With over $400 million raised and decades of experience helping high-growth companies, Sal breaks down what most entrepreneurs get wrong about preparing for an exit—and how to fix it before you leave millions on the table. Whether you're a small business owner with an eye on retirement or you're dreaming of your first big exit, this one’s for you. 💡 What You’ll Learn in This Episode: ✅ Why clean, explainable financials are the foundation of every great business exit strategy ✅ How mom-and-pop shops can level up and avoid leaving value behind ✅ The real ROI of professionalizing your finance function before you sell ✅ What investors really want to see during due diligence ✅ The biggest mindset shift founders need when seeking capital ✅ The power of 13-week cash flow modeling for clarity and confidence ✅ Real-world strategies to turn chaos into systems—and dollars 📌 SEO Highlights: We go deep on: Small business exit strategies that actually increase valuation How to sell a business without scaring off investors Business exit planning tips that lead to real equity value What "due diligence readiness" really means (hint: it’s not QuickBooks and hope) 🔧 Tools & Tactical Takeaways: Sal gives tactical advice on: Building a sellable business with equity value in mind Implementing automation and fractional CFO services for lean growth Using AI tools (like note takers and SOP generators) to scale like a pro Dealing with cash flow crunches and investor skepticism with strategy, not stress 🚀 Connect with Sal Tirabassi: 🌐 Website: cfoproanalytics.com 🔗 LinkedIn: Just search Sal Tirabassi 🧮 Free Tools: Check out the equity dilution and CAC calculators on the website 🔥 Ready to stop overpaying taxes? I help entrepreneurs and high-income earners legally and ethically reduce their tax bills—guaranteed. Head over to squirestaxplanning.com to take our free assessment and see how much you might be leaving on the table. 🙌 If You Found Value… Please rate, review, and share the podcast. That’s the best way to help us grow and continue serving healthy, wealthy, and wise entrepreneurs like you. You can follow me on social media or head to padensquires.com for more tools, thoughts, and behind-the-scenes content.

Today I sit down with Shark Tank Winner, Tracey Noonan and co-founder of Wicked Good Cupcakes whose simple advice could save you years of mistakes. Tracey Noonan launched Wicked Good Cupcakes — a business she launched with her daughter from their kitchen and turned into a multimillion-dollar empire. That’s right, no college degrees, no culinary training, just grit, a jar, and a whole lot of belief. We talk about how she turned a hobby into a Shark Tank success, what it's really like behind the scenes with Kevin O’Leary, and the shocking TSA moment that made national headlines (yes — cupcakes were deemed a national security threat!). This episode is packed with gold for entrepreneurs who feel like they’re “too old,” under qualified, or just unsure how to start. If you’re in the thick of the struggle or sitting on the edge of a dream, Tracey’s story will absolutely light a fire under you. What You’ll Learn in This Episode: The real deal behind the Shark Tank handshake — and why only 10% of them go through How a TSA agent and a cupcake jar created unexpected viral marketing Why Tracey said “yes” to Kevin O’Leary's royalty deal (and how it paid off big) The key mindset shift every aspiring entrepreneur needs to make What to do if you're stuck, overwhelmed, or think you're "too old" to start The simple advice Tracey gives that could save you years of mistakes The power of testing your idea before you scale Why commodity businesses often win — and how you can still innovate inside a crowded market 🛠️ Resources Mentioned: Tracey’s Online Course: TheCupcakeAnalogy.com — designed to help entrepreneurs avoid common mistakes and build a solid foundation Nonprofit: Build.org — mentoring high school entrepreneurs across the U.S. 📣 Where to Find Tracey: 🌐 Website & Course: TheCupcakeAnalogy.com 📧 Email: authortracey@gmail.com 💬 Available for: Mentorship, Coaching, Speaking 🎯 SEO Keywords: Shark Tank, Wicked Good Cupcakes, Shark Tank Winners, Tracey Noonan, Cupcake in a Jar, Kevin O’Leary Shark Tank Deal, Entrepreneur Mindset, How to Start a Business, Women Entrepreneurs, From Hobby to Business 🧠 Want to Build Wealth Like a Shark Tank Winner? Start With Your Taxes. Let’s be real — growing a business is hard enough. Overpaying taxes just makes it worse. If you're an entrepreneur or high-income earner and you're still relying on a basic tax preparer, you're likely leaving thousands on the table every single year. At Squires Tax Planning, we help business owners legally and ethically reduce their tax burden through proactive strategy — not just filing forms. We've saved our clients hundreds of thousands using techniques most accountants never mention. 👉 Think you might be overpaying? Take our free assessment at SquiresTaxPlanning.com Book a free discovery call to find out what your current tax pro isn't telling you. Let your money work harder — not just your hustle.

Today I sit down with Jeremy Jenson — founder & CEO of Encore Search Partners — to talk about how to scale your business by building systems, hiring the right people, and becoming a real-deal leader who stops being the bottleneck in their own company. Jeremy went from launching a scrappy lead-gen firm to running the largest executive search firm in Houston. He shares exactly how he made the leap, what scaling really looks like behind the scenes, and the mindset shifts founders must embrace to level up. No fluff, just the real playbook from a founder who's been there. 🎯 What You’ll Learn in This Episode: How Jeremy scaled from $250K in revenue to $15M+ by shifting his business model and investing in the right people Why many founders stall out — and how to break free from being the only person making decisions The power of hiring a COO and implementing EOS to unlock growth How to hire and compensate A-players — and why your old comp models are holding you back Building a business around systems (not people) to protect scalability and long-term value Jeremy’s take on AI, offshoring, and the future of professional services — and how to stay ahead of it The mindset shift from being the smartest person in the room to being the leader who attracts the smartest people Scaling tips for entrepreneurs feeling stuck around the $1M revenue mark 🚀 Perfect For: Entrepreneurs, founders, and small business owners who are looking for tactical advice on how to scale their business, hire effectively, build systems, and shift from operator to CEO. 🔗 Connect with Jeremy Jenson: 🔹 LinkedIn: Jeremy Jenson (look for the 🐐 in the name!) 🔹 Instagram: @jeremyjenson — behind-the-scenes, leadership gems, and a little bit of life 🔹 Encore Search Partners: encoresearch.com 📣 Call to Action: Enjoyed the episode? Don’t forget to rate, review, and share it with another entrepreneur who’s ready to scale their business. It’s how we spread the word and help more people build a business that works without them. You can also follow me (Paden Squires) at: 🌐 padensquires.com 📲 Instagram & LinkedIn @padensquires 💼 For tax strategy and planning: squirestaxplanning.com

In this episode of Behind Their Success: Advice For Entrepreneurs, I sit down with Ken Gee, the founder of KRI Partners, to explore the lucrative world of multifamily real estate investing. Ken shares his journey from a CPA working long hours to a successful real estate investor with over two billion in transactions. We dive into the motivations that led him to make the leap, including the desire for more family time and control over his career. Ken also debunks common misconceptions about entering the multifamily market and emphasizes the importance of understanding the business thoroughly. Whether you're a seasoned investor or just starting out, Ken's insights offer valuable guidance on building wealth through multifamily real estate. Join us for an engaging discussion on taking calculated risks and making informed decisions in this competitive industry.