Ever wondered what a tax extension actually means for your business? Here’s the scoop.Welcome to another episode of Empowering Entrepreneurs, where Glenn Harper and Julie Smith talk about one of the most common questions during tax season—what does it really mean to file a tax extension?You'll learn about the essentials of tax extensions for individuals and businesses alike, clearing up common misconceptions about what an extension covers (hint: it’s not extra time to pay your taxes!).You'll learn why you might need an extension, the importance of proactive planning, how penalties and interest work, and what you need to know if you live in a state with additional filing requirements.Whether you’re a seasoned entrepreneur or just navigating your first tax filing, Glenn Harper and Julie Smith make complex rules easy to understand and share practical tips to help you stay ahead—while sharing a few lighthearted moments about wardrobe changes and coffee breaks!This episode is brought to you by PureTax, LLC. Tax preparation services without the pressure. When all you need is to get your tax return done, take the stress out of tax season by working with a firm that has simplified the process and the pricing. Find out more about how we started.Here are 3 key takeaways for entrepreneurs and individuals navigating tax season:An extension gives you more time to file, not more time to pay. If you owe taxes, the payment is still due by April 15th. Paying late leads to penalties and interest.Extensions also apply to states and local taxes. While a federal extension often covers your state or city, sometimes a separate extension is needed. Check your specific requirements to avoid surprises.Proactive planning makes all the difference. Working with a tax professional throughout the year can help you estimate taxes due and prevent last-minute shocks from missing forms or unexpe

Whether you’re contemplating your own leap into entrepreneurship or just looking for relatable advice and inspiration, this episode is full of honest stories, actionable lessons, and a healthy dose of encouragement.Welcome to another episode of Empowering Entrepreneurs! Today’s show features a conversation with Tyler Davis, founder of DAT Finance, co-host of the Next Gen Strategies Podcast, and a self-proclaimed “entrepreneur extraordinaire.” Glenn Harper and Julie Smith talk about Tyler’s journey from his roots in Sidney, Ohio, to building his own thriving finance firm.Tyler shares how growing up in a small town, his family’s traditional work ethic, and his own early side hustles lit his entrepreneurial spark. From making and selling fishing lures as a kid to pursuing advanced degrees in accounting, Tyler’s story is one of self-discovery, calculated risks, and embracing the unknown. The conversation covers the tough decision to leave a “safe” corporate job, navigating the highs and lows of entrepreneurship, and the importance of building resilience, discipline, and a supportive network along the way.You’ll also learn about Tyler’s experience balancing family life with business ambitions, the insights he’s gained working with a wide spectrum of clients, and his perspective on the evolving world of accounting and business strategy.Brought to you by Harper & Company CPAs PlusHere are our top three takeaways from the episode:Embrace the leap with preparation: Tyler shared how critical it was to plan financially before jumping from a stable corporate job to entrepreneurship. Building that “runway” gave him the freedom to take risks and pursue his vision.Relationship-building is everything: Tyler’s story highlights the importance of connections—whether it’s forming a mastermind friendship, collaborating on a podcast, or helping clients beyond contracts. Positive relationships lead to growth, referrals, and long-term success.Continuous reinvention: From starting with fishing lures as a kid to shifting his business model and even considering a return to teachi

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

Get ready to be challenged, inspired, and equipped to define your own version of success!Welcome to another inspiring episode of Empowering Entrepreneurs! Today, hosts Glenn Harper and Julie Smith sit down with Mike Kelly, CFP, CPC, RLP—founder of Kelly Financial Planning, executive coach, and author of "Leaderfluence."Mike’s journey is a testament to grit, curiosity, and principled leadership. Growing up as the eldest of four in a small South Carolina town, he witnessed firsthand the hustle and resourcefulness of his parents—a janitor father and a mother who was a seamstress and hairdresser. These early experiences shaped his values of discipline, generosity, and the importance of giving back.Through basketball, Mike earned his way to college and developed vital skills in teamwork and perseverance. His impressive corporate career, spanning roles at Michelin and Macy’s, eventually led him to the realization that true success is defined by purpose, impact, and the freedom to serve others.After a pivotal moment in his early 30s, Mike shifted his focus from climbing the corporate ladder to aligning his work with his mission and passions.In this episode, Mike shares how his work as a financial planner and executive coach integrates his love for helping others lead themselves effectively, manage their finances wisely, and find clarity in their lives.He also opens up about the powerful role of accountability, the transition from corporate America to entrepreneurship, and the importance of giving back to the community.Whether you’re an aspiring entrepreneur, seasoned business leader, or simply curious about personal growth, you’ll find wisdom and actionable insights in Mike’s story.Brought to you by Harper & Company CPAs PlusHere are 3 key takeaways entrepreneurs and leaders won’t want to miss:Define Your Own Success: Mike reminds us that success isn’t one-size-fits-all. He encourages everyone to reflect deeply and define what success means personally, rather than chasing society’s “five Ps”—pleasure, prosperity, power, prestige, and position.

If you’re looking to scale your business, reinvent your career, or just hear a story that's as heartfelt as it is instructive, you won’t want to miss this candid conversation.Hosts Glenn Harper and Julie Smith sit down with the dynamic Marc L. Daniels—also known as the Billion Dollar Coach. From his entrepreneurial beginnings in New Jersey to orchestrating multi-million dollar exits and even running an alpaca farm on Martha’s Vineyard, Marc L. Daniels shares a wild ride packed with sharp business insights and personal transformation.This episode goes into Marc L. Daniels's unexpected pivots: rescuing a Radio Shack dealership from the brink, revolutionizing startups, and leading companies through explosive growth—all while staying grounded with stories of family, resilience, and a healthy dose of humor.Along the way, he opens up about the life-changing events that shaped his fearless approach, the strategies behind his success, and why having a plan is non-negotiable for any entrepreneur.This episode is brought to you by PureTax, LLC. Tax preparation services without the pressure. When all you need is to get your tax return done, take the stress out of tax season by working with a firm that has simplified the process and the pricing. Find out more about how we started.Moments07:34 "Winning Scholarship and Career Path"11:24 "West Milford's Economic Decline"19:17 "Visionary Paper Route Deal"26:54 "First Business Pivot Success"28:48 "Whiteboard Dashboard for Metrics"36:52 "Board Management Tech Amid Crisis"43:48 "Weaknesses and Unpredictable Threats"46:11 "Finding Profitable Industry Trends"52:53 AI: Business Tool, Not Trend55:53 "Meetings Matter for Project Success"01:00:59 Accountants: Helping is Core ValueRunning 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 CP

Why do so many entrepreneurs drag out their goals over 52 weeks instead of aiming to achieve them in 12? Is it fear of failure, fear of success, or just a lack of action?This is a candid, motivating conversation that will help you move from talking about your goals to actually achieving them!Welcome to another episode of Empowering Entrepreneurs! Today, Glenn Harper and Julie Smith pull back the curtain to talk about the real conversations that happen behind the scenes about goal-setting and timelines.Glenn Harper and Julie Smith tackle these questions with honest debate, sharing insights on overcoming procrastination, setting actionable steps, and why respecting your own ideas is crucial for growth.If you’ve ever found yourself pushing off your goals or forgetting about your plans by the end of the year, this episode will give you the tough love and practical tips you need to start taking meaningful steps—no matter how small.PureTax, LLCKey takeaways from our conversation:Action beats intention: Without taking consistent steps (even small ones), goals remain nothing but words.Compress your timeline: Don’t default to “someday.” Set shorter, focused periods to accelerate results, learn faster, and make success a habit.Prioritize your vision: Add your goals to your calendar, give them your best energy, and put yourself at the top of your to-do list.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 order to do that you need a clear path to follow for successOur clients enjoy a proactive partnership with us. Schedule a consultation with us today.Download our free guide -

If you’re looking to understand how the OBBBA can empower your business, this episode is packed with clear explanations and actionable insights for entrepreneurs everywhere.Welcome to another episode of Empowering Entrepreneurs, hosted by Glenn Harper and Julie Smith. They talk about the real impact of the OBBBA—referred to as the "big beautiful bill"—on entrepreneurs and business owners.With lots of chatter and confusion around what this legislation actually means, Glenn Harper breaks down the concrete benefits: from locking in permanent tax rates, to making long-term business planning easier, to allowing full write-offs for heavy vehicles and essential equipment purchases.Julie Smith joins in with practical questions, making sure listeners know how these changes could directly affect their buying decisions and tax strategies.PureTax, LLCTop 3 Takeaways:Locked-in Tax Rates: The OBBBA makes the current tax rates permanent, allowing entrepreneurs to plan for the future with more certainty. No more worrying about sudden tax hikes after sunset clauses expire!Permanent Qualified Business Income Deduction: Most flow-through entities can continue to benefit from this deduction. That means more money stays in your pocket and less goes to taxes.Immediate Asset Write-Offs: Need new equipment, vehicles, or even a factory upgrade? Purchase qualifying assets and write off 100%—right away, with no long depreciation schedules.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 order to do that you need a clear path to follow for successOur clients enjoy a proactive partnership with us. Schedule a consultation with u

Learn why talking to your advisor before you act isn’t just smart—it’s essential for entrepreneurial success!Welcome to another enlightening episode of the Empowering Entrepreneurs Podcast! In this conversation, Glenn Harper and Julie Smith talk about a topic every entrepreneur needs to hear: “What entrepreneurs should be asking their CPA right now.”If you’ve ever made a big financial move for your business—like selling stock, making a large purchase, or considering a Roth conversion—without looping in your tax advisor, you’re not alone.Glenn Harper and Julie Smith share their candid insights on why a quick phone call to your CPA can be the difference between an average outcome and an optimal one.They discuss the importance of tax planning, avoiding knee-jerk decisions, and how even small tweaks can have a big impact on your bottom line.PureTax, LLCHere are 3 key takeaways for entrepreneurs and decision-makers:Don’t Go It Alone: Before making any material financial move, reach out to your CPA or advisory team. A quick call could dramatically improve your results.Proper Planning = Better Outcomes: Acting on impulse might get the job done, but strategic planning can help you minimize taxes and maximize your benefits.It’s Easier to Ask for Permission: Give your CPA a heads up before acting, because sometimes “asking for forgiveness” means missed opportunities that can’t be undone.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 order to do that you need a clear path to follow for successOur clients enjoy a proactive partnership with us. Schedule a consultation with us today.Download

Glenn Harper and Julie Smith offer strategies for writing down action plans, building momentum with small wins, and making sure those 2026 goals don’t end up as next December’s leftovers.Welcome back to another episode of "Empowering Entrepreneurs." In this week’s conversation, Glenn Harper and Julie Smith dig into one of the biggest challenges entrepreneurs face at the turn of the year: setting growth goals that actually stick.As the buzz of New Year’s resolutions fades, Julie Smith shares her insights on why lofty ambitions often get lost by mid to late January, and how breaking big-picture objectives into daily, manageable action steps is key to real progress. If you’re ready to trade reactionary fire-fighting for intentional, rewarding growth, this episode is your blueprint for the year ahead.PureTax, LLCHere are 3 key takeaways for anyone looking to turn resolutions into real results:Break big goals into daily wins: Huge visions need to be broken down into actionable steps you can check off every day. Small, consistent progress is what leads to big outcomes.Write down both your goals and your action plan: As Glenn Harper shares, if you don’t map out your action steps, your goals are just dreams. Make your path clear and hold yourself accountable.Learn to act from growth, not just from pain: Entrepreneurs often react to challenges—but planning and executing for positive growth is far more rewarding than simply avoiding setbacks.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 order to do that you need a clear path to follow for successOur clients enjoy a proactive partnership with us. Schedule a consultation w

Whether you're in the trenches or taking time to reflect on your business journey, this episode is packed with advice and reflections to help you make informed decisions for 2026 and beyond.Welcome back to another insightful episode of Empowering Entrepreneurs. I'm your host, Glenn Harper, joined by my co-host, Julie Smith.Today, we're diving into a subject that many entrepreneurs grapple with: Is bigger always better, or is better just better? We'll explore the delicate balance between scaling a business and maintaining quality, how to decide which path aligns with your goals, and the crucial role of intention in growth strategies.This episode is brought to you by PureTax, LLC. Tax preparation services without the pressure. When all you need is to get your tax return done, take the stress out of tax season by working with a firm that has simplified the process and the pricing. Find out more about how we started.Actionable AdviceRegular Reflection: Make it a part of your business routine to step back and evaluate where you are and where you want to be.Intentional Planning: As the year comes to a close, use this period for setting clear, deliberate intentions for 2025.Opportunity Cost Evaluation: Consider what you might have to give up in order to achieve your desired growth. Is it worth it?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 order to do that you need a clear path to follow for successOur clients enjoy a proactive partnership with us. Schedu

Whether it’s lessons learned from product lifecycles, navigating family and personal setbacks, or his passion for giving back to the entrepreneurial community, David Stowers offers wisdom, humor, and a candid look at what it truly takes to grow, scale, and thrive.On this episode of Empowering Entrepreneurs, hosts Glenn Harper and Julie Smith sit down with David Stowers, principal owner of Smash Success and a business development specialist for FreedomDev Sensible Software. Known for his engaging sales style and entrepreneurial drive, David Stowers shares the twists and turns of his career—from hustling as a teenager and launching infomercial products, to facing financial challenges and reinventing himself multiple times over.With stories ranging from selling foam airplanes at flea markets to making national television appearances on QVC, David Stowers opens up about the peaks and valleys that shaped his journey. He discusses the importance of mentorship, balancing integrity with ambition, and why authenticity matters in business. Get ready for inspiring insights, entertaining anecdotes, and practical advice that every entrepreneur can relate to.Moments00:00 "David Sowers: Growth Enthusiast"03:16 Entrepreneurial Roots and Aspirations08:53 "Parenting with Trust and Independence"09:40 "Lessons from Early Amway Days"15:14 "Weekend Hustles to Rolling Rulers"18:49 "Finding Purpose Through Hardship"21:01 "Entrepreneur's Shift to Network Marketing"25:14 "Transition, Tech, and Opportunity"28:21 "From Selling Invisible to Consulting"31:09 QVC On-Air Training Experience33:01 "Entrepreneurship: Choose Fun Over Stress"36:51 "Recreating Success with Ginsu Knives"41:41 "Need vs. Want in Sales"44:47 "Marketing Lessons from Rich"46:12 "Entrepreneurship, Travel, and Family"This episode is brought to you by PureTax, LLC. Tax preparation services without the pressure. When all you need is to get your tax return done, take the stress out of tax season by working with a firm that has simplified the process and the pricing.

This episode is packed with inspiration and practical advice for entrepreneurs ready to invest in their well-being and become the best version of themselves.Welcome to another episode of the Empowering Entrepreneurs podcast! In this edition, hosts Glenn Harper and Julie Smith sit down with Dr. Will Haas, the founder and CEO of VIVE Wellness. Dr. Haas is no ordinary physician—he brings a unique blend of expertise with both an MD and an MBA, combining deep medical knowledge with sharp business acumen.With a dynamic background as a competitive athlete and a relentless curiosity for optimizing human health, Dr. Haas has dedicated his career to treating the root causes of illness rather than just addressing symptoms. Growing up watching Olympic heroes and learning the value of hard work from his academic parents, he forged his own path—one that challenges the norms of traditional Western medicine.In this conversation, Dr. Haas shares his entrepreneurial journey, from personal training and athletic coaching in college to pivoting away from conventional medicine’s “treat the symptom” approach. He explains his bio regenesis method and how he tailors cutting-edge wellness strategies for high-performing entrepreneurs whose drive and energy often come at the expense of their health.Moments03:05 Body Fat Increase Warning Signals07:58 Balancing School, Work, and Athletics12:40 "Discovering a Passion for Wellness"16:51 Triathlete Turned Trainer Insights19:19 Cycling: Clarity and Peace Time23:01 "Holistic Approach to Helping Others"26:28 Disenchantment with Conventional Medicine28:07 "Balancing Success and Well-being"33:39 "Achieving Pain Relief and Performance"36:12 "Relentless Curiosity for Optimization"This episode is brought to you by PureTax, LLC. Tax preparation services without the pressure. When all you need is to get your tax return done, take the stress out of tax season by working with a firm that has simplified the process and the pricing. Find out more about how we started.Here are 3 KEY TAKEAWAYS for anyone lookin

Get ready for a story of grit, giving back, and embracing opportunity, all served up with a side of cheeseburgers and community spirit.On this episode of Empowering Entrepreneurs, we sit down with Ron Ladner, co-founder of Shaggy’s restaurants and a true embodiment of passion meeting purpose. Raised on the Mississippi Gulf Coast, Ron Ladner shares his journey from humble beginnings, growing up in a small, crowded home, to building a thriving restaurant group known for its uplifting culture and commitment to putting both employees and guests first.Throughout the conversation, Ron Ladner opens up about the pivotal moments that shaped his entrepreneurial path—including his realization that adversity, from economic downturns to hurricanes, can actually fuel opportunity and innovation. From lessons learned in the construction yard and on the sports field, to pioneering successful sales strategies and ultimately returning home to help rebuild his community after Hurricane Katrina, Ron Ladner offers listeners invaluable insights on resilience, leadership, and the importance of creating lasting impact.Plus, you'll hear how his love for fishing became part of his business, the unique culture he’s built at Shaggy’s, and what truly drives him beyond profits. Moments00:00 "Ron: Business Meets Passion"05:36 "Curiosity Drives Passion for Growth"07:16 "Working Through School & Summer"10:45 Switching Majors: Tech to Marketing15:30 Informative Networking Secrets20:16 "Life's Unexpected Journeys"23:32 "Committed to People and Purpose"25:10 Transforming Restaurant Employee Culture30:27 Opportunity in Setbacks34:54 From Cleanup to Business Partnership37:47 Fishing Boat Intern to Captain40:53 Holistic Employee Support Solutions45:20 "Shaggy's Cheeseburger Story"46:34 "Book Success and Audiobook Deal"This episode is brought to you by PureTax, LLC. Tax preparation services without the pressure. When all you need is to get your tax return done, take the stress out of tax season by working with a firm that has simplified the process and the pricing.

Whether you’re an entrepreneur navigating chaos, or someone seeking clarity in life and work, this conversation is packed with life lessons about resilience, questioning the status quo, and the importance of looking inward to find your true calling.Glenn Harper and Julie Smith are joined by the remarkable Udo Erasmus, the visionary founder of Udo’s Choice and a pioneer in holistic health and nutrition. Born amidst the chaos of World War II, Udo’s extraordinary life journey—from a war baby and refugee in Europe to a global advocate for healthy fats and mindful living—will both inspire and challenge your perspective on health, fulfillment, and the entrepreneurial spirit.In this episode, you’ll discover how Udo Erasmus transformed personal adversity and a relentless curiosity into groundbreaking innovations in nutrition, leading him to question everything from big government to food industry practices. Udo shares the powerful story behind developing oils “made with health in mind,” discusses the essential connection between inner stillness and outer achievement, and offers deeply practical wisdom on finding peace, purpose, and inspiration—even in a noisy, distracted world.The Importance of Inner Work for EntrepreneursAdvice for entrepreneurs: do the "homework" of self-connection and inner peacePeace, inspiration, and purpose as preconditions for sustainable outward achievementReflection on journaling insights and creative breakthroughs from stillnessThis episode is brought to you by PureTax, LLC. Tax preparation services without the pressure. When all you need is to get your tax return done, take the stress out of tax season by working with a firm that has simplified the process and the pricing. Find out more about how we started.Here are our top 3 takeaways from this remarkable conversation:True Transformation Starts Within: Udo emphasized how peace, purpose, and fulfillment don’t come from external achievements, but from reconnecting with the “magnificence of your own being.” Take time for self-

If you’ve ever thought about putting your kids to work (on the payroll, that is), here are practical tips and some fun stories that might just inspire you to take the plunge. You could end up saving money and setting up your kids for financial success down the road!Hey there, and welcome back to the "Empowering Entrepreneurs Podcast" with Glenn Harper and Julie Smith! This episode gets into something a lot of business owners have wondered about, but maybe haven’t really dug into—can you actually pay your kids for helping out in your business? And what does that mean for your taxes?Glenn breaks down all the nitty-gritty IRS details and shares some smart ways to shift income, save on taxes, and teach your kids about money at the same time. Plus, Julie Smith adds her take on the real-life lessons kids get from rolling up their sleeves in the family business.This episode is brought to you by PureTax, LLC. Tax preparation services without the pressure. When all you need is to get your tax return done, take the stress out of tax season by working with a firm that has simplified the process and the pricing. Find out more about how we started.Key takeaways for business owners:Tax-smart payroll: Paying your kids through your LLC or as a sole proprietor can offer major tax advantages, as you may avoid the extra 15% in employment taxes that corporations require.It's not just about taxes: Beyond dollars and cents, bringing your kids into your business teaches them real-world financial skills, from how payroll works to the power of compounding through Roth IRAs.Documentation and legitimacy matter: The IRS requires any payments to be reasonable for actual work performed—think marketing help, filing, or even social media management. Keep it legitimate!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

Get ready to dive into the emotional side of wealth and discover why mastering your EQ around money might be the key to true financial freedom.Welcome to another inspiring episode of Empowering Entrepreneurs! Today, Glenn Harper and Julie Smith sit down with the dynamic Shannon Ryan—a certified financial planner, author, and advocate for financial literacy, whose deep understanding goes far beyond spreadsheets and investment strategies. In this conversation, Shannon shares her unique approach to helping clients reconcile their emotional relationship with money, revealing how childhood experiences and family history shape our financial behaviors and beliefs. From her entrepreneurial spirit as a California kid (and top Girl Scout cookie seller), to career-defining moments in the high-stakes world of finance, Shannon opens up about resilience, overcoming fear, and finding meaning in our financial choices. Whether you’re an entrepreneur, a leader, or someone curious about building a happy relationship with money, this episode will challenge you to see your finances in a whole new light. Moments00:00 "Shannon's Transformative Money Insights"06:10 Money, Emotions, and Strategy07:59 Entrepreneurial Financial Leader's Journey13:28 Resilience Born From Childhood Struggles15:40 Entrepreneurial Struggles and Breakthroughs18:45 Redefining Success Beyond Money24:23 "Client Money Concerns Explained"26:58 "Use Money, Enjoy Life"28:53 "Reflections on COVID Lessons"31:59 "Financial Wounds and Scar Tissue"37:18 "Redefining Money and Impact"40:25 Investor's Dilemma: Emotion vs Returns44:11 "Defining Moment: Emotion Over Money"46:54 "Leadership, Attitude, and Team Morale"48:52 "Legacy, Growth, and Impact"51:37 Shannon Ryan's Resource HubThis episode is brought to you by PureTax, LLC. Tax preparation services without the pressure. When all you need is to get your tax return done, take the stress out of tax season by working with a firm that has simplified the process and the pricing.

Whether you’re considering a big purchase, making investments, or just want to optimize your finances, this episode is packed with actionable advice to help you take control, plan ahead, and maybe even celebrate tax season like you’ve just won the Super Bowl.Welcome back to the Empowering Entrepreneurs Podcast! Glenn Harper and Julie Smith explore how proactive tax planning for entrepreneurs makes tax time stress-free—starting now! Instead of letting April 15th become a source of anxiety, they're here to show you how it can just be another day—with the right strategies in place.Glenn and Julie give you practical tips like maximizing your retirement contributions, mastering tax loss harvesting, leveraging donor-advised funds, and making the most of charitable giving. They also touch on new opportunities provided by recent tax legislation and remind you why staying connected with your advisor year-round is key to avoiding last-minute stress.This episode is brought to you by PureTax, LLC. Tax preparation services without the pressure. When all you need is to get your tax return done, take the stress out of tax season by working with a firm that has simplified the process and the pricing. Find out more about how we started.Moments00:00 "Tax Planning for Smart Savings"05:24 CPA Guidance Starts With Input06:56 Proactive Tax Planning Tips09:29 Julie Smith Overview Here are 3 key takeaways:Start NOW: Waiting until April 15th is too late. Early conversations with your CPA or advisor set you up to leverage every tax benefit available and avoid last-minute stress.Maximize Your Planning: From retirement plan contributions and tax loss harvesting to charitable donation stacking, there are so many proactive moves you can make before year-end.Constant Communication is Key: Keep your advisor in the loop before making big decisions—from buying property to major purchases—so everything is set up for success, not cleanup.Glenn Harper, CPA, is the Owner and Managing Partner of Harper & Company CPAs Plus, a top 10 Managing Partner in the country (Accounting Toda

Hear inspiration on fostering positivity, building contagious energy, and empowering both yourself and those around you!Welcome to another uplifting episode of Empowering Entrepreneurs! In today’s conversation, Glenn Harper and Julie Smith talk about the transformative power of gratitude—especially for entrepreneurs. With Thanksgiving just around the corner, our hosts explore how shifting your mindset from “I have to” to “I get to” can completely change your outlook on both business and life. They share personal stories, practical advice on daily gratitude practices, and a reminder to pause, reflect, and celebrate all that you’ve achieved this year. Plus, there’s a little talk of football, feasting, and embracing those well-deserved moments of rest.This episode is brought to you by PureTax, LLC. Tax preparation services without the pressure. When all you need is to get your tax return done, take the stress out of tax season by working with a firm that has simplified the process and the pricing. Find out more about how we started.Some key takeaways from our conversation:Shift Your Perspective: Swap the “I have to” mindset for “I get to.” Viewing daily tasks as opportunities rather than obligations transforms both your mood and your leadership energy.Pause and Reflect: Taking intentional time (even on Thanksgiving!) to rest, veg out, and reflect helps you appreciate how far you’ve come—and what’s to come in the year ahead.Contagious Positivity: Positive energy rooted in gratitude is infectious. It improves your day, uplifts your team, and attracts others to you—personally and professionally.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 order to do that you need a clear path to follow for successOur clients enjoy a proactive partnershi

If you’re curious how podcast interview marketing really works, what drives entrepreneurial success, and why relationships and adaptability matter more than ever, this conversation is a must-listen!Glenn Harper and Julie Smith sit down with Tom Schwab, the founder and chief evangelist of Interview Valet—a company that’s helping entrepreneurs and thought leaders amplify their message through targeted podcast interviews.The Entrepreneur’s Mindset: "I know what I want out of life and I'm just saying a job is not going to get me there. I'll work really, really hard, but I want to have more control in my life." - Tom SchwabIn this episode, Tom Schwab shares stories from his diverse journey: growing up in the Midwest, learning lessons in entrepreneurship from his grandfather, caddying at country clubs, and even running nuclear power plants aboard an aircraft carrier after graduating from the Naval Academy. Tom discusses how these experiences shaped his entrepreneurial mindset, how relationships serve as the ultimate currency, and why being psychologically self-employed is vital for team building.We talk about the origins of Interview Valet, the evolution of marketing through podcasting, and how AI is changing the game—and ask Tom to break down exactly how his company connects clients to their ideal audiences. He also gets personal, highlighting the mentors who’ve impacted his trajectory, the mindset necessary to pivot and grow, and what “retirement” means for a true entrepreneur.This episode is brought to you by PureTax, LLC. Tax preparation services without the pressure. When all you need is to get your tax return done, take the stress out of tax season by working with a firm that has simplified the process and the pricing. Find out more about how we started.Here are 3 key takeaways:Relationships are the ultimate currency: Tom Schwab credits his grandfather’s example for teaching him the lasting value of genuine co

Suppose you’re an entrepreneur looking for a reminder that you’re not alone in the ups and downs? This episode offers plenty of relatable moments and practical wisdom to fuel your own journey.Welcome to another episode of Empowering Entrepreneurs! In today’s show, “The Back Story,” Glenn Harper and Julie Smith pull back the curtain and give you an honest, behind-the-scenes look at their personal entrepreneurial journey. Rather than focusing solely on the stories of their guests, Glenn and Julie open up about how their own partnership has evolved—from Glenn’s solopreneur beginnings to Julie’s transition from corporate America, and their combined efforts to navigate the constant changes of business ownership.You’ll hear candid conversations about the challenges they’ve faced, the hard decisions and sleepless nights, and how building a company (and a podcast) requires grit, vision, and the ability to say both “yes” and “no” at the right times. They share insights on the importance of impact—how helping clients, empowering others, and surrounding themselves with the right people have driven everything they do.Moments00:00 Entrepreneurial Struggles and Dynamics03:41 "Adapting to Change in Business"09:01 Impact, Growth, and Collaboration11:20 "Uncovering Goals Through Conversation"This episode is brought to you by PureTax, LLC. Tax preparation services without the pressure. When all you need is to get your tax return done, take the stress out of tax season by working with a firm that has simplified the process and the pricing. Find out more about how we started.Here are 3 key takeaways for anyone on the entrepreneurial journey:Embrace Change & Growth: The only constant in business is change. What you’re doing today isn’t necessarily what you’ll be doing tomorrow – and that’s OK! Evolution is part of the journey.Impact Over Everything: Whether it’s helping a client save on taxes, supporting a team member, or sharing strategies on a podcast, making an impact is at the core of everything we do.Surround Yourself With the Right People: Success flourishes when