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

Why saying NO! feels impossible, and what you can do about it.Why is it so hard for entrepreneurs to say "no"? As we debated on the latest episode of Empowering Entrepreneurs, it turns out that staying focused is often tougher than finding opportunities!Entrepreneurs are naturally solution-seekers and optimists, always believing they can solve “just one more problem.” But as hosts Julie Smith and Glenn Harper discussed, knowing when—and why—to say “no” is essential for sustainable growth and maintaining your sanity.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 key takeaways from our conversation:The Yes Syndrome: Julie opens up about her lifelong struggle with saying yes to every opportunity and the internal questions she faces: “Why can’t I say no?” and “What does another yes actually change?”Opportunity Everywhere: Glenn discusses how entrepreneurs are “programmed” to see solutions everywhere—and the challenge of balancing self-belief with actual bandwidth. He compares the entrepreneurial mindset to NFL players trying to play every position—it just isn’t sustainable in the long run!Delegation and Teamwork: Both Glenn and Julie explore the idea of leveraging teams and partnerships to avoid overcommitting. Building a support system isn’t just smart—it’s essential if you want to make a real impact without burning out.Defining Your ‘Why’: Before jumping into something new, Glenn challenges listeners to ask, “Just because I can, should I?” Are you saying yes for money, ego, the thrill of a challenge, or simply to stay busy? Getting clear on your motivation helps you focus on what truly matters.Relaxation Remains Elusive: Julie and Glenn humorously discuss what it means to actually relax—a concept that seems almost mythical for most entrepreneurs. Apparently, some people do sit on boats or drink iced tea all day!

Are you straddling that line between doing it all yourself and building a team? You’re not alone! Whether you’re mowing lawns solo or dreaming of running a company with employees, you’ll pick up some valuable advice here. Hey there, and welcome back to the Empowering Entrepreneurs Podcast! On today’s episode, Glenn Harper and Julie Smith are answering the question a lot of business owners face: Am I a solopreneur? Am I an entrepreneur? If you’ve ever wondered what the real difference is—or if you’re just creating a job for yourself instead of building something bigger—this is the episode for you.Glenn and Julie explain what it really means to go it alone versus growing a team, sharing their takes on what makes each approach appealing (and what the downsides are, too). They get real about the hard work, the risks, and why some people love sticking to their own thing while others are always chasing that next big opportunity.It’s all about figuring out where you want to go, how to get there, and having a little fun along the way!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:Solopreneur vs Entrepreneur: As a solopreneur, you wear every hat—from service delivery to marketing and billing. The upside? Full autonomy. The downside? If you’re out of commission, your business is too.Scaling & Selling: Entrepreneurs who build systems and teams are better positioned to scale and eventually sell the business. A company built on personal branding alone is harder to hand off.Do Your Homework Before Jumping In: Analyze your costs, understand your pricing, and seek advisors early. Jumping in with both feet is important, but knowing your numbers can save you from expensive lessons.Glenn Harper, CPA, is the Owner and Managing Partner of Harper & Company CPAs Plus, a top 10 Managing Partner in

If you’ve ever wondered how much you can (or should) take from your business—or why your bank account doesn’t always feel as full as your profits say it should—this episode is for you!Glenn Harper and Julie Smith tackle a classic challenge faced by business owners—how do you actually pay yourself as an entrepreneur? Drawing inspiration from a recent lively dinner debate, Glenn and Julie talk about the difference between taking a draw versus running payroll, why cash flow discipline is crucial in those early ramen-noodle days, and the surprising tax realities every entrepreneur needs to understand. From the myth that business owners can “just take out whatever they want” to the essential 50% savings rule, this episode delivers practical advice on managing your money, setting boundaries, and knowing when—and how much—you should pay yourself. Additionally, they'll discuss why having a trusted advisor is important and preview upcoming deep dives into business structures and tax strategy. 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 from the Episode:1. Don’t Chase the Shiny Object (a.k.a. All That Cash in Your Business Account). It’s tempting to pay yourself whatever’s in the bank, but Glenn reminds us: “The more money you take out… the less money you have for the bad times or to invest back in your company.” Start by leaving enough cash cushion in your business to weather tough times and fund growth.2. Start Small, Think Big. When your business is getting off the ground, think like you’re back in college—keep expenses lean and take only what you truly need. As Glenn puts it, “Pretend like you’re back in college, eating ramen noodles and you can’t take any money out.” Let your business account grow before ramping up payouts.3. Draws, Payroll, and the 50% Rule. If you’re a sole proprietor or single-member LLC, you’ll usually take draws (withdrawals) instead of p

Whether you’re planning your own exit or simply curious about what goes on behind the scenes, this episode is packed with practical advice and relatable stories to help you map out a successful succession plan for your own business.Welcome back to another episode of Empowering Entrepreneurs! Today, hosts Glenn Harper and Julie Smith talk about a topic that’s top of mind for many business owners: business succession planning. They share lessons drawn from their work with clients, demystifying the often complicated journey of passing a business from one generation to the next.Glenn and Julie explore key challenges entrepreneurs face when it’s time to step away—whether transitioning the business to family members or loyal employees. They discuss the emotional hurdles of letting go, handling entitlement, and ensuring a smooth transfer that keeps employees and clients happy. You are going to hear real-world scenarios, from the solopreneur who’s never shared their “secret sauce,” to the well-oiled operation ready for a seamless handoff. Plus, you’ll hear their thoughts on staggered transitions, the importance of open communication, and, above all, keeping family relationships intact through the process.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 from the episode:Your Mindset Matters Most Succession isn’t just about logistics; it’s a major emotional journey for owners. Are you truly ready to step away, or are you holding on out of habit or fear? Recognizing where you are in the process helps create a smoother transition.Communication Is Critical From addressing possible resentment among employees to clearly outlining new roles and expectations, open communication is the bedrock of a successful handover—especially with family involved.Succession Is a Two-Way Street A healthy transition depends on BOTH the outgoing owner and the incoming leader. Alignme

How could bartending teach you the essentials of sales and connecting with people? Glenn and Julie sit down with Neil Rogers, owner and VP of Sales and Marketing at Rogers Marketing—a leading promotional marketing firm in New England. From overcoming self-doubt to thriving as a connector, Neil’s journey is all about embracing process, adapting, and helping others succeed. If you’re ready to grow your business—and yourself—this episode is for you!Neil is not just a marketing powerhouse; he’s also the bestselling author of “Bar Tips: Everything I Needed to Know in Sales I Learned from Behind the Bar,” and co-founder of Positive Activity, a program dedicated to helping people achieve their goals one step at a time.In this lively and candid conversation, Neil takes us back to his roots growing up in Melrose, Massachusetts, sharing stories of large family life, early struggles with self-esteem, and how discovering his people skills behind the bar set him on a lifelong journey of sales and entrepreneurship. Neil opens up about his path to building a business, the importance of positivity and process, why being coachable made all the difference, and how his “make it happen” mindset has led to decades of success—not just in business, but in life.Here are three key takeaways that resonated with us:Start Every Day With Positivity: Neil emphasized the importance of beginning each day with a growth mindset. Approaching problems with a solution-oriented, positive attitude leads to more productivity and greater creative thinking.Be Coachable and Embrace Mentorship: One of Neil’s major turning points was becoming open to feedback and guidance. Being receptive to mentorship allowed him to accelerate both personal and professional growth—an essential mindset shift for any entrepreneur.Process Drives Progress: Whether behind the bar or running a business, Neil credits consistent processes and paying attention to the little things as the foundation for his long-term success. Show up, engage, refine, and keep moving forward—success is built one step at a time.This episode is brought to you by PureTax, LLC. Tax preparation services without the pressur