Tune in for an episode packed with practical takeaways, inspiring stories, and actionable advice that will resonate with entrepreneurs at every stage of their journey.Welcome to another episode of the Empowering Entrepreneurs Podcast, where hosts Glenn Harper and Julie Smith explore the journeys that shape successful business leaders.In this episode, we meet Mike Milligan—certified financial planner, author, podcast host, adjunct professor, and passionate baseball coach—whose entrepreneurial path is anything but ordinary.Growing up in Laurinburg, North Carolina, Mike Milligan’s childhood was shaped by strong family values, resourcefulness, and a firsthand view of survival through innovation.From selling collard sandwiches alongside his grandmother to avoiding the IRS with cash hidden in coffee cans and labeled “liver” in the freezer, his early life sparkled with lessons in grit and ingenuity. As the first college graduate and millionaire in his family, Mike’s story is a testament to forging your own way, inspired by the hard work and entrepreneurial spirit of those closest to him.Unpacking his career, Mike Milligan shares candid reflections on his time inside the banking industry, the pitfalls and opportunities of working in financial institutions, and his unwavering commitment to putting clients first—well ahead of Wall Street’s profit motives.He reveals how he pioneered unique business models within banks, eventually founding 1.oak Financial, and offers wisdom on leveraging connections, trademarks, and word-of-mouth to grow his business.Listeners will also discover the surprising tax-saving strategies available in places like Puerto Rico, where Mike Milligan now lives and runs his practice, and how geographic arbitrage and creative planning can help entrepreneurs pay zero federal income tax—legally.But beyond finance, the conversation is filled with heartfelt moments and powerful advice on embracing life's opportunities, never missing a moment, and building a meaningful legacy.Brought to you by Harper & Company CPAs PlusHere are three key takeaways:Adaptability Breeds Opportunity: Mike’s childhood experiences taught him the value of hard work and creative problem-solving. When his family faced tough times, innovation and grit were the answer, setting the tone for his entrepreneurial journey.Tax Strategy Is a Gamechanger: Mike’s approach to leveraging the Puerto Rico tax code is a masterclass in thinking outside the box. Understanding and utilizing unique tax strategies can radically improve your bottom line—all it takes is planning and a willingness to learn.Never Miss a Moment: At the heart of entrepreneurship is the drive to craft a life with purpose. Mike’s “endgame” is not just about business success, but about living fully and intentionally—embracing every opportunity to create meaningful experiences.Running a business doesn’t have to run your life.Without a business partner who holds you accountable, it’s easy to be so busy ‘doing’ business that you don’t have the right strategy to grow your business.Stop letting your business run you. At Harper & Co CPA Plus, we know that you want to be empowered to build the lifestyle you envision. In or