Profit With A Plan

Building Legacy and Profit: Exploring ESOPs with Kelly Finnell
If you’ve ever wondered how to sell your business while preserving its legacy and empowering your team, this episode is for you. Kelly Finnell shares decades of expertise to help you understand ESOPs and their role in ownership succession planning. Whether you’re planning an exit or looking to create long-term value, this episode will give you the tools to make informed decisions.
Host: Marcia Riner, Business Growth Strategist - Infinite Profit®Guest: Kelly Finnell, ESOP Consultant - Executive Financial Services, Inc.
 
 
Episode Summary:In this episode of Profit with a Plan, host Marcia Riner dives into the transformative power of Employee Stock Ownership Plans (ESOPs) with Kelly Finnell, one of the nation’s premier ESOP consultants and the author of The ESOP Coach. Kelly shares the benefits of ESOPs as an exit strategy, a management transition tool, and a wealth-building opportunity for employees—all while preserving your business legacy. Whether you’re exploring liquidity options or considering how to secure your company’s future, this episode offers actionable insights to help you make informed decisions.
Episode Highlights:
[00:01:10] What is an ESOP?Kelly defines ESOPs as Employee Stock Ownership Plans, explaining their dual purpose as an exit strategy for business owners and a retirement plan for employees. Learn how ESOPs differ from traditional 401(k) plans and why they’re a unique option in ownership succession planning.
[00:06:30] The Key Benefits of ESOPsKelly breaks down three key features that set ESOPs apart:
Borrowing capability for financing transactions.
Stock purchase transactions with the business owner.
Exclusive focus on the sponsoring company’s stock.
[00:12:45] How ESOPs Create Win-Win ScenariosDiscover how ESOPs align employee efforts with company profitability, creating a sweat-equity-based retirement plan that motivates employees and drives growth.
[00:18:30] Timing Your TransitionKelly advises business owners on when to implement an ESOP, emphasizing the importance of starting at least five years before a planned exit. Learn how an ESOP serves as a glide path for ownership transitions and leadership development.
[00:22:50] ESOP Suitability for Small and Mid-Sized CompaniesKelly outlines the ideal candidate for an ESOP, focusing on businesses with $1M+ in adjusted EBITDA and at least 30 employees. Hear real-world examples of successful ESOPs, including companies like Publix Supermarket and BDO.
[00:29:15] Tax Benefits of ESOPsExplore how ESOPs allow companies to operate tax-free, offering significant advantages at both the corporate and shareholder levels. Kelly shares how Congress incentivizes wealth-sharing through ESOPs and why this strategy appeals across political lines.
[00:35:00] Dispelling Common ESOP MythsKelly addresses misconceptions, such as fears of employee-run committees and the complexities of transitioning to an ESOP structure. Gain clarity on how ESOPs maintain effective leadership and governance.
[00:40:20] Steps to Get Started with an ESOPKelly shares actionable advice for business owners considering ESOPs:
Evaluate if your company meets the criteria.
Build a leadership team to guide the transition.
Leverage resources like his book, The ESOP Coach, and ExecFin.com for deeper learning.
Call-to-Action:Ready to explore how an ESOP could work for your business? Visit Kelly Finnell’s website, ExecFin.com, for more resources, videos, and articles. Check out his book, The ESOP Coach, on Amazon for an in-depth guide.
 
Subscribe and Share:
Make sure to subscribe to Profit with a Plan on your favorite podcast platform and share this episode with other entrepreneurs exploring exit strategies. Your business legacy starts here!
 
Keywords: ESOPs (Employee Stock Ownership Plans), Ownership succession planning, Exit strategy for business owners, Employee ownership, Business legacy, ESOP benefits, ESOP tax advantages, Small and mid-sized businesses, Retirement planning for employees, ESOP transactions, Selling to employees, Liquidity strategies for businesses, Business succession planning options.
 
This episode is sponsored by Infinite Profit ® —We don't just talk profit — we deliver it!
Is your business ready for explosive growth? Visit InfiniteProfitConsulting.com to learn how Marcia and her team can help you boost profits and set your business up for long-term success.
 
 
Grab Your Free Resource:
Feeling like you're doing everything right but still not seeing the results you want? It might be time for a fresh perspective. That’s why we’re offering a Free Growth & Marketing Audit. In one powerful session, we’ll uncover opportunities to drive real growth for your business. Ready to make an impact? Visit profitbooster.biz and let’s get started!
 
 
About Marcia Riner.  She is a business growth strategist who helps business owners dramatically increase their revenue, profit, and the value of their company. In fact, she can show prospective clients a clear pathway to profit and an impactful ROI for working here before hiring her firm. Through her proven Profit Booster® strategies, she gets results. Marcia is the CEO of Infinite Profit® and more information can be found at https://www.InfiniteProfitConsulting.com
Got questions?  Reach out to Marcia and her team at (949) 229-2112 ♾️

The Hidden Key to Growth: How the 80/20 Rule Can Transform Your Business with Perry Marshall
Host: Marcia Riner, Business Growth Strategist - Infinite Profit®Guest: Perry Marshall, Business Strategist, Best-selling Author, and Expert in digital advertising.
 
Episode Description:What if 80% of your success comes from just 20% of your actions? This week, Marcia Riner sits down with Perry Marshall, business strategist, best-selling author of 80/20 Sales and Marketing, and a pioneer in exponential business growth. Perry shares how the 80/20 principle—and its recursive power—can help you uncover hidden profits, focus on high-impact opportunities, and stop wasting time and money on the wrong people, customers, and tasks.
If you're ready to stop spinning your wheels and start working smarter for massive ROI, this episode is a game-changer.
 
Key Takeaways:
Identify the Vital Few: Focus on the 20% of tasks, customers, and resources driving 80% of your results.
The Recursive 80/20 Rule: Dig deeper—the top 20% of the 20% generates 64% of outcomes.
Eliminate Waste: Avoid the low-impact 80% draining your resources, including unprofitable customers and efforts.
High-Value Offers: Create ultra-premium solutions for hyper-responsive customers willing to pay top dollar.
Smarter Targeting: Use data to identify and duplicate your best customers for exponential returns.
 
Timestamps for Key Points:
00:00 – 01:02Introduction: What if 80% of your success is hidden in 20% of your efforts?
01:17 – 02:58Guest Introduction: Perry Marshall’s expertise in leveraging the 80/20 rule to unlock untapped business growth.
03:15 – 06:11The Story of “Racking the Shotgun”: Why finding the right people matters more than convincing the wrong ones.
06:35 – 09:50The Real Power of the 80/20 Rule: The top 4% of customers or actions drive 64% of results—stop focusing on the bottom.
10:30 – 14:13The $2,700 Espresso Machine: Why high-value customers will always pay exponentially more.
14:45 – 18:00Duplicating Your Best Customers: How to target and attract hyper-responsive buyers using data-driven strategies.
18:45 – 24:01Real-World 80/20: How Perry helped businesses reduce ad costs, eliminate waste, and increase profits with precision targeting.
24:10 – 29:00Why You Should Fire 10% of Your Customers: Removing resource-draining clients to maximize profitability.
29:30 – 36:00Posture Shift: Why sales is a disqualification process—focus only on the customers who are a perfect fit.
36:50 – 39:00The Shortcut to Smarter Marketing: Upload your top customers to platforms like Facebook for targeted, high-value lead generation.
39:10 – 42:00Never Develop a Product Until They Pay: Validate demand first to save time, money, and resources.
42:30 – 46:00Final Takeaway: Work smarter, not harder, by focusing on the cream of the crop customers driving your business.
 
CTA for Listeners:Ready to turn the 80/20 principle into real profits? Visit PerryMarshall.com/Podcast to grab Perry’s book 80/20 Sales and Marketing for just $7 (including shipping).
 
Listen Now:Subscribe to Profit With a Plan on all major podcast platforms and never miss an episode!
Keywords: 80/20 rule, exponential business growth, Perry Marshall, high-value customers, business strategy, hyper-responsive buyers, smarter marketing, eliminating waste, digital advertising, profit maximization.
 
This episode is sponsored by Infinite Profit ® —We don't just talk profit — we deliver it!
Is your business ready for explosive growth? Visit InfiniteProfitConsulting.com to learn how Marcia and her team can help you boost profits and set your business up for long-term success.
 
 
Grab Your Free Resource:
Feeling like you're doing everything right but still not seeing the results you want? It might be time for a fresh perspective. That’s why we’re offering a Free Growth & Marketing Audit. In one powerful session, we’ll uncover opportunities to drive real growth for your business. Ready to make an impact? Visit profitbooster.biz and let’s get started!
 
 
About Marcia Riner.  She is a business growth strategist who helps business owners dramatically increase their revenue, profit, and the value of their company. In fact, she can show prospective clients a clear pathway to profit and an impactful ROI for working here before hiring her firm. Through her proven Profit Booster® strategies, she gets results. Marcia is the CEO of Infinite Profit® and more information can be found at https://www.InfiniteProfitConsulting.com
Got questions?  Reach out to Marcia and her team at (949) 229-2112 ♾️

Marketing Ecosystems: Simplify Your Strategy and Amplify Growth with Angela Frank
Host: Marcia Riner, Business Growth Strategist - Infinite Profit®Guest: Angela Frank, Fractional CMO - The Growth Directive
 
What if your marketing could do more by doing less? Imagine ditching the overwhelming clutter of tactics and instead focusing on a cohesive, streamlined strategy that actually works. That’s exactly what Angela Frank, fractional CMO and founder of The Growth Directive, is here to share with us today.
Angela has helped businesses generate over $50 million in revenue with her innovative Marketing Ecosystem approach—a game-changing strategy that connects every piece of your marketing to drive sustainable growth. In this episode, she reveals:
Why your marketing ecosystem is the missing link to scaling your business.
The key metrics that show if your marketing is paying off or wasting money.
Insider tips for staying ahead of marketing trends in 2025 and beyond.
If you’ve ever felt like marketing is a money pit with no payoff, Angela’s insights will shift your mindset and your results. Buckle up, because this episode will show you how to simplify your marketing, amplify your impact, and position your business for long-term profitability.
🎧 Let’s dive in!
Key Points & Timestamps
[00:00:04] – Introduction to Marketing Ecosystems
What does it mean to market less but sell more?
Angela Frank introduces the concept of a marketing ecosystem and how it integrates every aspect of your business.
[00:03:41] – The Origin of the Marketing Ecosystem
Angela explains how her generalist background helped her identify the power of interconnected marketing strategies.
"Think synergy: when all parts of your marketing work together, you save money and achieve better results."
[00:05:24] – Why Marketing Ecosystems Drive Business Growth
A holistic approach fosters flexibility and experimentation.
Business owners can avoid frustration by focusing on strategies unique to their brand.
[00:10:36] – How to Know If Your Marketing is Working
Use tools like Google Looker or Agency Analytics to monitor performance.
Angela advises starting with clear metrics: lead sources, conversion rates, and lifetime customer value.
[00:12:16] – The Role of Social Media in Marketing Ecosystems
Social media may serve as an educational tool rather than a direct conversion channel.
Angela shares the value of asking new customers, “How did you hear about us?” to understand attribution better.
[00:18:14] – Why You Need an Expert’s Help
Avoid costly mistakes by hiring professionals to set up your marketing ecosystem.
Angela discusses the dangers of relying solely on interns or in-house teams without strategic oversight.
[00:27:00] – Marketing Trends for 2025
The rise of AI snippets in organic search and how to diversify content strategies.
Founder-led thought leadership for brand growth.
Angela’s Actionable Tips for Entrepreneurs
Start Small: Pick one organic channel and one paid channel to begin your marketing efforts.
Test Strategically: Focus on testing one element at a time—copy, visuals, or call-to-action—to gather meaningful insights.
Track Data: Use tools like UTM codes to pinpoint which channels are truly driving results.
Consider Fractional Support: A fractional CMO provides strategic oversight, saving you time, money, and effort.
Resources & Freebies
🎁 Free Digital Copy of Angela’s Book: Your Marketing Ecosystem: How Brands Can Market Less and Sell More👉Download your free copy here:   https://www.yourbrandevolved.com/freebook
Connect with Angela Frank
Website: The Growth Directive
Podcast: The Growth Pod
LinkedIn: Angela Frank
Subscribe & Stay Connected
Don’t miss out on future episodes of Profit with a Plan!📅 New episodes drop every Tuesday on your favorite podcast platforms.
Until next week, make your plans and profit with them! 🚀
 
 
This episode is sponsored by Infinite Profit ® —We don't just talk profit — we deliver it!
Is your business ready for explosive growth? Visit InfiniteProfitConsulting.com to learn how Marcia and her team can help you boost profits and set your business up for long-term success.
 
 
Grab Your Free Resource:
Ready to turn customer reviews into a growth engine for your business? Get your FREE marketing and growth audit at ProfitBooster.biz. In just one session, discover how to attract new clients, build trust, and drive real growth using the power of reviews. Don’t wait—start unlocking your business’s potential today!
 
 
About Marcia Riner.  She is a business growth strategist who helps business owners dramatically increase their revenue, profit, and the value of their company. In fact, she can show prospective clients a clear pathway to profit and an impactful ROI for working here before hiring her firm. Through her proven Profit Booster® strategies, she gets results. Marcia is the CEO of Infinite Profit® and more information can be found at https://www.InfiniteProfitConsulting.com
Got questions?  Reach out to Marcia and her team at (949) 229-2112 ♾️

AI SEO & Voice Search: The New Frontier for Small Business Success
Host: Marcia Riner, Business Growth Strategist and CEO of Infinite Profit®
Guest: Robert Downey, co-founder of Simply Be Found
Google as we know it is dead.” Bold claim, right? But today’s guest, Robert Downey, isn’t here to sugarcoat the future. AI and voice search are rewriting the rules of how customers find businesses, and small business owners must adapt—or risk disappearing from the conversation altogether.
In this episode, Robert reveals how tools like AI SEO, voice search, and dynamic strategies are reshaping the digital landscape. If you’ve ever wondered how to stay relevant and visible as search evolves, this is the episode you can’t afford to miss. 
 
Key Timestamps
[00:00:06] Introduction to the EpisodeMarcia introduces Robert Downey and the provocative topic: “Google as we know it is dead.”
[00:01:09] The Rise of Voice SearchDiscover how voice assistants like Alexa, Siri, and Google Assistant are redefining how customers search for businesses.
[00:04:35] The Importance of Being FoundRobert explains why small businesses must move beyond traditional SEO and adapt to AI and voice search technologies.
[00:09:10] The 3 SEO Pillars for AIRobert outlines the essential components for AI optimization: Content, Authority, and Trust, and how they impact your discoverability.
[00:12:50] Blogging for AI SuccessLearn why smaller, consistent content updates can outperform traditional long-form blogging in the age of AI.
[00:16:30] The AI SEO Pixel ExplainedRobert introduces the AI SEO Pixel, a game-changing tool for dynamic website optimization without backend access.
[00:20:40] Organic Search in the AI EraHow AI search levels the playing field by prioritizing trust and relevance over paid placements.
[00:25:50] Actionable AI Strategies for Small BusinessesRobert shares practical ways to leverage AI, voice search, and local SEO to dominate in your market.
[00:30:15] The Future of Search & Staying AheadA warning for businesses: adapt now or risk being left behind in a rapidly evolving search landscape.
ConclusionThis episode underscores a crucial point: the way we search is changing, and businesses must evolve to stay competitive. AI and voice search are no longer optional; they’re essential. Robert Downey’s insights and tools like the AI SEO Pixel provide actionable strategies to help small businesses thrive in this new era.
Ready to future-proof your business? Visit Simply Be Found to learn more about Robert’s innovative platform.
 
Subscribe to Profit with a Plan on your favorite podcast platform to catch more actionable insights in future episodes. See you next week!
 
 
This episode is sponsored by Infinite Profit ® —We don't just talk profit — we deliver it!
Is your business ready for explosive growth? Visit InfiniteProfitConsulting.com to learn how Marcia and her team can help you boost profits and set your business up for long-term success.
 
 
Grab Your Free Resource:
Ready to turn customer reviews into a growth engine for your business? Get your FREE marketing and growth audit at ProfitBooster.biz. In just one session, discover how to attract new clients, build trust, and drive real growth using the power of reviews. Don’t wait—start unlocking your business’s potential today!
 
 
About Marcia Riner.  She is a business growth strategist who helps business owners dramatically increase their revenue, profit, and the value of their company. In fact, she can show prospective clients a clear pathway to profit and an impactful ROI for working here before hiring her firm. Through her proven Profit Booster® strategies, she gets results. Marcia is the CEO of Infinite Profit® and more information can be found at https://www.InfiniteProfitConsulting.com
Got questions?  Reach out to Marcia and her team at (949) 229-2112 ♾️

Marketing + Sales = Revenue: The Formula for Business Growth with Kyle Mealy
Introduction
Are your marketing and sales teams working against each other instead of together? In this episode, Marcia Riner sits down with Kyle Mealy, a Fractional Chief Revenue Officer, to uncover how businesses can dissolve the silos between marketing and sales to drive growth. Kyle shares his proven framework for aligning teams, tracking metrics, and focusing on revenue to unlock untapped potential.
Host: Marcia Riner, Business Growth Strategist - Infinite Profit®
Guest: Kyle Mealy, Fractional Chief Revenue Officer - Ready For The Next Level
What You’ll Learn in This Episode
How to Align Marketing and Sales: Turn two competing teams into one cohesive revenue-driven force.
The Marketing Funnel & Sales Pipeline "MRI": A powerful tool to diagnose leaks in your revenue system.
Making Better ROI Decisions: Simplify analytics to measure efficiency and make smarter marketing and sales investments.
Episode Highlights
[00:05:51] Kyle’s Unique Journey to CRO Success
Kyle’s career path has been anything but traditional, moving from lab management to running a karate school to leading a digital marketing agency. Each step taught him valuable lessons about process, data, and leadership, which now fuel his innovative revenue strategies.
[00:15:36] The "Shared Fate" Approach
Kyle introduces the concept of merging marketing and sales into a unified department focused solely on revenue. This alignment eliminates inefficiencies, reduces finger-pointing, and helps teams work together toward common goals.
[00:23:40] Introducing ROAS: A New Way to Measure ROI
ROAS, or Return on All Sales and Marketing Spend, is a game-changer for businesses. Kyle explains how combining marketing and sales budgets into one metric helps businesses measure efficiency and identify opportunities for growth.
[00:33:00] The Revenue Cascade Framework
Kyle explains the Revenue Cascade, a simple but effective process that tracks your customer journey:
Awareness: How many people are learning about your brand?
Interest: How many are engaging with your content?
Action: How many take the next step, like scheduling a call or requesting more information?
Conversion: How many become paying customers?
By analyzing these stages, businesses can identify where they’re losing potential customers and develop strategies to fix those leaks.
[00:41:10] Real-Life Applications of Kyle’s Strategies
Kyle shares success stories of businesses applying these strategies, including how one client cut unnecessary spending on events while increasing engagement with targeted campaigns.
SEO-Rich Long-Tail Keywords
Aligning marketing and sales for higher revenue
Data-driven business growth strategies
Measuring ROI in small to mid-sized businesses
Marketing funnel sales pipeline integration
Fractional Chief Revenue Officer benefits
Collaborative marketing and sales solutions
Revenue-focused decision-making for entrepreneurs
Conclusion
In this episode, Kyle Mealy showed us how aligning marketing and sales can transform your business into a revenue-driven machine. From his "Marketing Funnel & Sales Pipeline MRI" to the Revenue Cascade framework, Kyle shared actionable strategies to simplify processes, optimize resources, and drive measurable growth.
If you’re ready to take your marketing and sales to the next level, Learn more about Kyle's Revenue Cascade framework at ReadyForTheNextLevel.com 
Thank you for listening to Profit with a Plan. Subscribe now so you never miss an episode. Until next week, make your plans and profit with them!
 
 
This episode is sponsored by Infinite Profit ® —We don't just talk profit — we deliver it!
Is your business ready for explosive growth? Visit InfiniteProfitConsulting.com to learn how Marcia and her team can help you boost profits and set your business up for long-term success.
 
 
Grab Your Free Resource:
Ready to turn customer reviews into a growth engine for your business? Get your FREE marketing and growth audit at ProfitBooster.biz. In just one session, discover how to attract new clients, build trust, and drive real growth using the power of reviews. Don’t wait—start unlocking your business’s potential today!
 
 
About Marcia Riner.  She is a business growth strategist who helps business owners dramatically increase their revenue, profit, and the value of their company. In fact, she can show prospective clients a clear pathway to profit and an impactful ROI for working here before hiring her firm. Through her proven Profit Booster® strategies, she gets results. Marcia is the CEO of Infinite Profit® and more information can be found at https://www.InfiniteProfitConsulting.com
Got questions?  Reach out to Marcia and her team at (949) 229-2112 ♾️

Position Your Brand to Dominate: Stand Out, Scale Up, and Achieve Your Goals 
Are you tired of blending in while your competitors steal the spotlight? It’s time to take your brand from ordinary to extraordinary. In this episode of Profit With a Plan, I sit down with Trey Robinson, a powerhouse marketing executive who has mastered the art of positioning brands for unstoppable growth. Trey shares his strategies for creating a standout brand, leveraging organic search to surpass even the biggest players in your industry, and aligning your marketing strategy with your boldest business goals. This episode is packed with actionable insights to help you position your business for success. Don’t miss it!
Host: Marcia Riner, Business Growth Strategist - Infinite Profit®
Guest: Trey Robinson, Digital Marketer - Story Amplify
Key Talking Points & Timestamps:
[00:00:05] – The Importance of Standing OutMarcia introduces Trey Robinson and sets the stage for a conversation on brand differentiation, growth strategies, and creating a marketing foundation that drives success.
[00:04:00] – Sales and Marketing: A Dynamic DuoTrey shares his journey from high school sales to becoming a marketing leader, highlighting the interplay between sales and marketing in building successful businesses.
[00:10:10] – Branding Beyond LogosTrey discusses the misconception that branding is just about logos and colors. A brand is about the experience you create and the promises you deliver.
[00:15:45] – Defining Your Unique Value Proposition (UVP)The key to differentiation: Trey explains how identifying your unique value and sharpening your niche can drive exponential growth.
[00:22:10] – The Riches in the NichesTrey emphasizes the power of niching down and serving a specific audience exceptionally well, with examples from his own work.
[00:27:50] – Crafting a Content Strategy for GrowthHow Trey used organic search and a content-first approach to help Realized Holdings grow from $5M to $15M. He explains the value of creating helpful, targeted content that meets your audience’s needs.
[00:33:15] – Building a Foundation for Long-Term SuccessTrey and Marcia dive into why your brand and marketing strategy should evolve with market trends and customer needs while remaining true to your core.
[00:40:05] – Digital Audits: A Powerful Starting PointTrey introduces Story Amplify’s free digital audit, a tool to evaluate your online presence, from social media to website performance, and actionable tips for improvement.
[00:47:20] – Final Insights and Actionable AdviceMarcia and Trey share why now is the perfect time to revisit your brand, refine your messaging, and prepare for growth in the year ahead.
ConclusionThis episode reminds us that great branding is about much more than a logo—it’s about creating an experience that resonates with your audience and drives results. Now is the time to revisit your unique value proposition and ensure your brand is positioned for success.
 
Don’t forget to subscribe to Profit With a Plan on your favorite podcast player so you never miss an episode filled with actionable insights to grow your business. Until next time, make your plans and profit with them!
 
These notes are optimized for keywords such as, Brand Positioning, Unique Value Proposition (UVP), Marketing Strategy, Organic Search Optimization, and Business Growth.
 
 
This episode is sponsored by Infinite Profit ® —We don't just talk profit — we deliver it!
Is your business ready for explosive growth? Visit InfiniteProfitConsulting.com to learn how Marcia and her team can help you boost profits and set your business up for long-term success.
 
 
Grab Your Free Resource: Looking to supercharge your profits? Download Marcia’s Profit Booster Playbook at BoostingProfit.com to uncover three essential strategies to increase your bottom line today.
 
 
About Marcia Riner.  She is a business growth strategist who helps business owners dramatically increase their revenue, profit, and the value of their company. In fact, she can show prospective clients a clear pathway to profit and an impactful ROI for working here before hiring her firm. Through her proven Profit Booster® strategies, she gets results. Marcia is the CEO of Infinite Profit® and more information can be found at https://www.InfiniteProfitConsulting.com
Got questions?  Reach out to Marcia and her team at (949) 229-2112 ♾️

The Riches Are in the Niches: Master Vertical Markets for Profits and Freedom
Is your business stuck in chaos, with unpredictable clients and overwhelming demands? In this episode of Profit with a Plan, Corey Quinn reveals how Deep Specialization can streamline your operations, boost profits, and free you from founder-led sales. Discover how mastering a vertical market can transform your business into a scalable, high-value company that clients love and investors want.
Host: Marcia Riner, Business Growth Strategist - Infinite Profit
Guest: Corey Quinn, Author of bestselling "Anyone, Not Everyone"
 
Key Points with Timestamps:
[00:02:19] - Corey’s Journey to Specialization:Corey shares his early start in marketing, his time at Scorpion, and how he grew their revenue by 8x in six years.
[00:03:02] - What is Deep Specialization?Corey explains how focusing on a vertical market creates better results for clients, builds employee expertise, and allows you to charge premium prices.
[00:09:08] - The Common Mistakes of Generalist Businesses:Hear the story of Alex, a business owner who learned the hard way that catering to too many markets leads to chaos and frustration.
[00:15:56] - The Numbers Behind Specialization:Corey crunches the numbers to show how just 1% of a vertical market can create a multimillion-dollar business.
[00:20:50] - Choosing the Right Vertical Market:Learn the criteria for picking a vertical market, focusing on problems you solve well and markets you enjoy working with.
[00:23:32] - Building Authority in Your Vertical:Corey outlines three strategies: inbound marketing, outbound marketing with thoughtful gifts, and relationship-based networking.
[00:28:40] - The Power of Referrals in Vertical Markets:How to leverage “Mavens” and niche communities to create word-of-mouth momentum.
[00:33:20] - Overcoming the Fear of Missing Out:Corey addresses the emotional and practical challenges of saying no to broad markets and why focusing is the real key to growth.
Conclusion:
Corey Quinn’s insights on Deep Specialization provide a clear roadmap for breaking free from founder-led sales and creating a scalable, profitable business. By choosing a vertical market, systematizing your processes, and leveraging strategic marketing, you can serve clients better, reduce chaos, and even increase your pricing power.
If you’re ready to take the leap and transform your business, visit anyonenoteveryone.com to access Corey’s audiobook and resources.
Don’t forget to subscribe to Profit with a Plan for more actionable strategies to grow your business. Make your plans—and profit with them!
 
Subscribe & Learn More:
Don't miss future episodes of Profit with a Plan, where we share tips and strategies to grow your business and increase profitability. Subscribe on your favorite podcast platform 
 
 
These notes are optimized for keywords such as Specialization, Vertical Markets, Founder-Led Sales, Scaling, Profitability, Business podcast
 
 
This episode is sponsored by Infinite Profit ® —We don't just talk profit — we deliver it!
Is your business ready for explosive growth? Visit InfiniteProfitConsulting.com to learn how Marcia and her team can help you boost profits and set your business up for long-term success.
 
 
Grab Your Free Resource: Looking to supercharge your profits? Download Marcia’s Profit Booster Playbook at BoostingProfit.com to uncover three essential strategies to increase your bottom line today.
 
 
About Marcia Riner.  She is a business growth strategist who helps business owners dramatically increase their revenue, profit, and the value of their company. In fact, she can show prospective clients a clear pathway to profit and an impactful ROI for working here before hiring her firm. Through her proven Profit Booster® strategies, she gets results. Marcia is the CEO of Infinite Profit® and more information can be found at https://www.InfiniteProfitConsulting.com
Got questions?  Reach out to Marcia and her team at (949) 229-2112 ♾️
 

 Is It Time To Upgrade Your Tax Team?  Forward Thinking Tax Strategies 
Ready to unlock the tax secrets that could save you thousands and accelerate your business growth? Join Marcia Riner and tax expert David Snider, CEO of Harness Wealth, as they dive into tax strategies that go beyond mere compliance. Think your current tax team has your back? Think again. From choosing the right business structure to discovering little-known tax incentives, David sheds light on ways your tax strategy might be holding your business back. Whether you're planning to expand, acquire, or even sell, this episode will open your eyes to how proactive tax planning can be a powerful growth engine. It's time to think forward and ask: Do you have the right tax team to get you there?
Key Talking Points & Timestamps
[00:02:05] Meet David Snider
David’s impressive journey from Bain Capital to founding Harness Wealth. How his experiences drive his mission to make tax and financial guidance accessible.
[00:03:30] Business Structuring for Tax Optimization
Understanding the impact of business structure on taxes, from QSBS benefits to choosing the right entity.
[00:06:40] Differences Between Tax Planning & Compliance
David outlines the proactive nature of tax planning vs. typical compliance, emphasizing the value of ongoing advisory.
[00:09:15] Real-Time Tax Strategy
How “safe harbor” rules, estimated taxes, and cash flow timing can protect your business from unexpected liabilities.
[00:12:40] Entity Choice & Tax Advantages
Post-2017 Tax Cuts implications and benefits of alternative structures like multi-member LLCs and S-Corps for reducing state taxes.
[00:16:55] Proactive Tax Advisory for Business Growth
The importance of having a tax advisor who’s actively monitoring your business goals, potential industry changes, and tax policy shifts.
[00:22:25] Leveraging Tax Advisors as Strategic Growth Partners
From R&D credits to location-based incentives, David discusses the tax tools that can significantly lower operational costs for growth.
[00:25:30] Specialized Advisory for Niche Markets
Why niche-focused tax advisors, who understand the unique needs of your industry, can boost growth faster than a generalized approach.
[00:27:40] Outsourced CFO Services
When and how businesses can benefit from outsourced CFO support as part of their tax advisory for financial forecasting and strategic cash flow management.
Conclusion:
If you’re still wondering whether your current tax team has what it takes to drive your business forward, this episode is your wake-up call! David Snider reveals the possibilities that come with having a proactive, forward-thinking tax advisor in your corner—someone who can help you navigate tax policies, optimize cash flow, and fuel your company's growth goals. With the right tax team, you’re not just saving money—you’re setting your business up for lasting success.
Take advantage of David’s exclusive offer and get a complimentary consultation at https://harnesswealth.com/Marcia. Remember, the best investment you can make is in a tax strategy that aligns with your vision for growth!
 
Subscribe & Learn More:
Don't miss future episodes of Profit with a Plan, where we share tips and strategies to grow your business and increase profitability. Subscribe on your favorite podcast platform 
 
 
These notes are optimized for keywords such as Forward-thinking tax strategies, Business tax planning, Outsourced CFO for small business growth, Optimize taxes for business growth and Tax team for business sale planning.
 
 
This episode is sponsored by Infinite Profit ® —We don't just talk profit — we deliver it!
Is your business ready for explosive growth? Visit InfiniteProfitConsulting.com to learn how Marcia and her team can help you boost profits and set your business up for long-term success.
 
 
Grab Your Free Resource: Looking to supercharge your profits? Download Marcia’s Profit Booster Playbook at BoostingProfit.com to uncover three essential strategies to increase your bottom line today.
 
 
About Marcia Riner.  She is a business growth strategist who helps business owners dramatically increase their revenue, profit, and the value of their company. In fact, she can show prospective clients a clear pathway to profit and an impactful ROI for working here before hiring her firm. Through her proven Profit Booster® strategies, she gets results. Marcia is the CEO of Infinite Profit® and more information can be found at https://www.InfiniteProfitConsulting.com
Got questions?  Reach out to Marcia and her team at (949) 229-2112 ♾️

From Stalled to Thriving: Transform Your Business Finances 
In this insightful episode, Marcia Riner sits down with Stewart Ervin, founder of Bracket Management and a Fractional CFO with over 25 years of experience. Stewart shares his expert insights on business turnarounds, offering practical steps to regain control over finances, enhance operational efficiency, and boost overall business value. Get ready to learn proven strategies that can transform your business and set it on the path to profitability and growth.
Key Highlights:
[00:00:05] - Episode Introduction
Marcia introduces the topic of financial turnaround and introduces Stewart Ervin as a trusted Fractional CFO with years of experience in guiding businesses to profitability and efficiency.
[00:00:43] - Welcome to Profit with a Plan
Marcia sets the stage for the episode, explaining the Profit with a Plan mission to help entrepreneurs boost profitability and prepare for sustainable growth.
[00:01:20] - Special Offer: Profit Booster Playbook
Marcia offers a free resource: the Profit Booster Playbook, available at boostingprofit.com to help entrepreneurs tackle growth plateaus and profit plateaus.
[00:02:05] - Meet Stewart Ervin and Bracket Management
Stewart shares his journey from finance to Fractional CFO work, detailing how his expertise in operational and financial strategy has helped businesses transform their financial health.
[00:04:49] - The Importance of Recognizing Financial Signals for Turnaround
Stewart explains key indicators of a business in need of a turnaround, such as flat revenue, declining profits, and delivery issues, encouraging proactive measures for business health.
[00:07:20] - Setting Clear Goals and Avoiding Plateaus
Stewart shares insights on why consistent growth is essential, warning against complacency and the risks of stagnant business operations.
[00:09:50] - Assessing Financials for Business Turnaround
Stewart outlines his process of examining a business's 3-year financial overview without initial owner input to identify unbiased issues and patterns in cash flow, profits, and expenses.
[00:11:30] - Key Value Drivers in Turnarounds
Stewart emphasizes three critical areas for improving a business's value: effective pricing strategies, cost control, and steady business growth, with a breakdown of Lean Six Sigma techniques.
[00:17:00] - How a Fractional CFO Transforms Businesses
Stewart and Marcia discuss the strategic advantage of bringing in a Fractional CFO who aligns financial stability with operational strategy, showing why it’s a cost-effective and impactful option for businesses under $50M in revenue.
[00:19:00] - Why Incremental Change Drives Success
Stewart explains that a disciplined approach of 3% improvements in pricing, cost reduction, and growth can create sustainable 8-10% year-over-year profit increases.
[00:24:00] - Realistic Turnaround Timelines
Stewart shares that most turnarounds show stabilization within three months, giving business owners a roadmap to profitability without lengthy waiting periods.
[00:29:20] - The Value of a Big-Picture Perspective
Stewart explains that successful businesses require a cohesive strategy where all departments move toward shared goals, reducing costly, reactionary fixes.
[00:30:00] - Free Business Health Assessment
Stewart introduces Bracket Management’s assessment tool at bracketmgmt.com/assessment, a 35-question diagnostic that evaluates a business’s financial, strategic, and operational health.
[00:31:40] - Final Thoughts on Proactive Financial Management
Stewart emphasizes the importance of engaging a financial strategist before crisis hits, highlighting the need for early intervention and consistent growth.
Conclusion
If you’re tired of seeing stagnant results and ready for real financial transformation, Stewart’s insights are the blueprint to start that journey. From stabilizing your finances to building sustainable growth, Stewart shows that with the right focus, any business can shift from plateaued to profitable. Remember, a turnaround doesn’t mean you’re at the end; it means you're ready to scale to the next level. Keep these insights in mind, subscribe to Profit with a Plan, and start making your business the success story you know it can be.
 
Special Offer:
take Bracket Management’s free Business Health Assessment. This assessment includes 35 questions covering key areas like financial stability, operational efficiency, and strategic planning. The assessment provides a personalized report to help business owners identify strengths and areas for improvement in their business operations.
Link: bracketmgmt.com/assessment
Stewart emphasizes that the assessment is data-driven, giving an objective snapshot of where a business stands, making it a valuable tool for any owner looking to enhance business performance or begin a turnaround.
Subscribe & Learn More:
Don't miss future episodes of Profit with a Plan, where we share tips and strategies to grow your business and increase profitability. Subscribe on your favorite podcast platform 
These notes are optimized for keywords such as business credit, boost business credit, no personal guarantee, EIN credit, cash flow management, and business funding.
 
 
This episode is sponsored by Infinite Profit ® —We don't just talk profit — we deliver it!
Is your business ready for explosive growth? Visit InfiniteProfitConsulting.com to learn how Marcia and her team can help you boost profits and set your business up for long-term success.
 
 
Grab Your Free Resource: Looking to supercharge your profits? Download Marcia’s Profit Booster Playbook at BoostingProfit.com to uncover three essential strategies to increase your bottom line today.
 
 
About Marcia Riner.  She is a business growth strategist who helps business owners dramatically increase their revenue, profit, and the value of their company. In fact, she can show prospective clients a clear pathway to profit and an impactful ROI for working here before hiring her firm. Through her proven Profit Booster® strategies, she gets results. Marcia is the CEO of Infinite Profit® and more information can be found at https://www.InfiniteProfitConsulting.com
Got questions?  Reach out to Marcia and her team at (949) 229-2112 ♾️

Master Business Credit: Fund Your Growth Without Personal Guarantees
Many business owners struggle to secure funding without risking their personal assets. Relying on personal guarantees leaves them vulnerable, and it can feel impossible to get the credit they need to grow.
Imagine trying to scale your business while constantly worried that one misstep could put your personal finances—and even your home—on the line. It doesn’t have to be this way. Most entrepreneurs aren’t aware of the hidden strategies that the big corporations use to access credit without the personal risk.
In this episode of Profit with a Plan, business credit expert Murray Beaulieu reveals how you can build strong business credit, avoid personal guarantees, and tap into new opportunities for funding. Learn the insider tips to protect your assets, manage cash flow, and set your business up for long-term financial success.
Key Takeaways:
Boosting Your Business Credit
Timestamp [00:00:07]: Marcia introduces the topic of how to build business credit without risking personal assets.
Murray emphasizes that most businesses under $100 million lack the resources to leverage business credit properly.
Using Business Credit Without a Personal Guarantee
Timestamp [00:13:05]: Discover why it's essential to avoid personal guarantees and keep your business liability separate.
Murray shares how to build credit under your EIN, reducing personal risk and protecting personal assets.
Transferring Business Credit When Selling Your Company
Timestamp [00:16:36]: Marcia and Murray discuss how building a strong business credit profile can increase your company’s value when selling. Learn how to transfer business credit with the sale, making your exit strategy smoother.
Floating Accounts Payable & Receivable
Timestamp [00:21:11]: Murray touches on managing cash flow with business credit, using lines of credit, and loans against accounts receivable or inventory to maintain flexibility.
Other Highlights:
The Difference Between Personal and Business Credit
Timestamp [00:09:00]: Business credit isn't automatic like personal credit. You must be intentional and proactive to build it.
The importance of consistency in business data (addresses, phone numbers, etc.) across all platforms to avoid credit rejection.
The Power of Leveraging Business Credit
Timestamp [00:14:30]: Business credit opens doors to better terms, lower insurance premiums, and credibility in the marketplace. Murray shares how a small business used business credit to outbid a larger competitor for a government contract.
Tips for Building Business Credit
Timestamp [00:25:01]: Murray shares actionable steps to ensure your business looks credible to credit bureaus, including maintaining consistent addresses and registering with business credit agencies like Dun & Bradstreet.
Actionable Advice:
Transition personal expenses used for business (like phones, utilities, etc.) into your business name to start building credit.
Regularly check your business credit report and ensure all information is up to date and consistent.
Avoid using personal guarantees whenever possible by building credit through your EIN.
Call to Action:
Want to learn more about how to build your business credit? Connect with Murray Beaulieu on LinkedIn and get a free business credit report evaluation as a special offer for podcast listeners! Mention you heard about him on Profit with a Plan.
Subscribe & Learn More:
Don't miss future episodes of Profit with a Plan, where we share tips and strategies to grow your business and increase profitability. Subscribe on your favorite podcast platform 
These notes are optimized for keywords such as business credit, boost business credit, no personal guarantee, EIN credit, cash flow management, and business funding.
 
 
This episode is sponsored by Infinite Profit ® —We don't just talk profit — we deliver it!
Is your business ready for explosive growth? Visit InfiniteProfitConsulting.com to learn how Marcia and her team can help you boost profits and set your business up for long-term success.
 
 
Grab Your Free Resource: Looking to supercharge your profits? Download Marcia’s Profit Booster Playbook at BoostingProfit.com to uncover three essential strategies to increase your bottom line today.
 
 
About Marcia Riner.  She is a business growth strategist who helps business owners dramatically increase their revenue, profit, and the value of their company. In fact, she can show prospective clients a clear pathway to profit and an impactful ROI for working here before hiring her firm. Through her proven Profit Booster® strategies, she gets results. Marcia is the CEO of Infinite Profit® and more information can be found at https://www.InfiniteProfitConsulting.com
Got questions?  Reach out to Marcia and her team at (949) 229-2112 ♾️