The CFO Reality Check Every Entrepreneur Needs: Leading Through the Numbers

In This Episode of Business Lunch, join Ryan Deiss and I in this enlightening episode of Business Lunch, where they delve into the often overlooked yet crucial topic of accounting and finance. We discuss how entrepreneurial optimism can clash with the harsh realities of financial reporting. Learn how to navigate these challenges and foster a productive relationship with your CFO to ensure your company's financial health.Timestamps:00:00 – Entrepreneurial Optimism vs. Financial Realism01:36 – Why Accounting Reporting Shapes Company Culture02:37 – Switching from Cash to Accrual Accounting03:17 – When Financial Reports Become Depressing05:41 – Fixing the Reporting Process08:29 – Avoiding Obstacles: A Common Entrepreneurial Pitfall09:54 – Support Your Team… or Change It12:19 – Leadership’s Role in Financial Clarity17:34 – Preparing for Exit & Upgrading the Finance Team20:17 – Why Accounting Method Changes Can Distort Profit27:03 – Restructuring Contracts to Fix Revenue Recognition31:54 – Challenging Accounting Assumptions37:15 – The Importance of Cash Flow Over Profit40:54 – Don’t Let Accounting Wag the Dog43:10 – Final Thoughts & OutroConnect with me on social:TikTok: Check out my TikTok HereInstagram: Check out my Instagram HereFacebook: Check out my Facebook HereLinkedIn: Check out my LinkedIn HereSubscribe to my YouTube 👉  HereResources:• 7 Steps to Scalable workbook• Get my book, Zero Down, FREEMentioned in this episode:Build Your CEO DashboardGet one report every week of the key metrics you need to know with the CEO Dashboard!CEO Dashboard

In this episode of Business Lunch, we walk you through the ins and outs of managing business finances. We explain the potential pitfalls of keeping more than a month's worth of operating expenses in the account. We explain how that can lead to complacency and unnecessary spending. We also explain how business can cover unexpected events and tricky payroll situations, like those pesky months with three payroll cycles or prepaying for holidays. We go beyond the glamor of being an entrepreneur to the real details behind the scenes.Highlights:"We're very big on lifestyle and freedom and all those kinds of things. But it's also important to acknowledge that it's not a perfect situation very often.""There are times when things are absolutely amazing. And there's times when things could frankly be a hell of a lot better. And I think that's called life. I think that's called entrepreneurship""If we're buying a business, I hate the agreement part. I love negotiation and strategy. But when it comes to reading a 75-page document, I just absolutely can't stand it."Timestamps:00:00 - Operating Account Insight01:15 - Personal Calendar Reflection02:15 - Acknowledging Imperfections03:15 - Loving Strategy but Hating Legal Work06:52 - The Reality of Entrepreneurship07:39 - Cyclicality in Business08:54 - Handling Excess Profit10:20 - Minimum Operating Reserve10:37 - Importance of Operational Cash10:44 - Prepaying Payroll ChallengesConnect with me on social:TikTok: Check out my TikTok HereInstagram: Check out my Instagram HereFacebook: Check out my Facebook HereLinkedIn: Check out my LinkedIn HereSubscribe to my YouTube 👉  HereResources:• 7 Steps to Scalable workbook• Get my book, Zero Down, FREEMentioned in this episode:Build Your CEO DashboardGet one report every week of the key metrics you need to know with the CEO Dashboard!CEO Dashboard

In this episode of Business Lunch, we dive into extreme leverage—how solo founders are building multi-million dollar businesses with basically zero headcount. We break down the playbook: finding expensive problems, validating demand before writing code, and letting AI handle the execution. We also cover the risks, the new KPIs that matter, and the vision of one founder running a portfolio of micro businesses on a single AI-driven back office.Chapters00:00 Building a Billion Dollar AI Company Alone13:18 Leveraging AI for Business Solutions13:45 Redefining Roles in the Age of AISpecial AnnouncementAfter 5 years of teaching entrepreneurs how to build, buy, and sell companies, I'm retiring all Epic courses and educational content permanently. This isn't because they didn't work, thousands have built real wealth with these frameworks, but because AI, capital markets, and collaboration have changed the game. I'm shifting from teaching deals to doing deals. Want access to everything before it disappears forever? This is your last chance to grab 5 years of proven frameworks, strategies, and training materials before they're gone for good. See the full story and whats going into the vault here: Go to the vaultConnect with me on social:TikTok: Check out my TikTok HereInstagram: Check out my Instagram HereFacebook: Check out my Facebook HereLinkedIn: Check out my LinkedIn HereSubscribe to my YouTube 👉  HereRESOURCES:• 7 Steps to Scalable workbook• Get my book, Zero Down, FREEMentioned in this episode:The VaultSpecial Announcement After 5 years of teaching entrepreneurs how to build, buy, and sell companies, I'm retiring all Epic courses and educational content permanently. This isn't because they didn't work, thousands have built real wealth with these frameworks, but because AI, capital markets, and collaboration have changed the game. I'm shifting from teaching deals to doing deals. Want access to everything before it disappears forever? This is your last chance to grab 5 years of proven frameworks, strategies, and training materials before they're gone for good. See the full story and whats going into the vault here: Go to the vaultRetirement Vault

In this episode of Business Lunch, we dive into the critical 90 to 100-day period following a private equity acquisition, emphasizing the need for rapid, auditable value creation. It outlines a strategic framework for CFOs, detailing tactical moves to achieve immediate financial impact while integrating lean thinking principles to eliminate waste and enhance operational efficiency. The discussion also highlights the importance of human behavior in executing these strategies effectively.Chapters00:00 The Critical 90-Day Sprint10:05 Strategic Framework for CFOs18:37 Tactical Moves for Immediate ImpactSpecial AnnouncementAfter 5 years of teaching entrepreneurs how to build, buy, and sell companies, I'm retiring all Epic courses and educational content permanently. This isn't because they didn't work, thousands have built real wealth with these frameworks, but because AI, capital markets, and collaboration have changed the game. I'm shifting from teaching deals to doing deals. Want access to everything before it disappears forever? This is your last chance to grab 5 years of proven frameworks, strategies, and training materials before they're gone for good. See the full story and whats going into the vault here: Go to the vaultConnect with me on social:TikTok: Check out my TikTok HereInstagram: Check out my Instagram HereFacebook: Check out my Facebook HereLinkedIn: Check out my LinkedIn HereSubscribe to my YouTube 👉  HereRESOURCES:• 7 Steps to Scalable workbook• Get my book, Zero Down, FREEMentioned in this episode:The VaultSpecial Announcement After 5 years of teaching entrepreneurs how to build, buy, and sell companies, I'm retiring all Epic courses and educational content permanently. This isn't because they didn't work, thousands have built real wealth with these frameworks, but because AI, capital markets, and collaboration have changed the game. I'm shifting from teaching deals to doing deals. Want access to everything before it disappears forever? This is your last chance to grab 5 years of proven frameworks, strategies, and training materials before they're gone for good. See the full story and whats going into the vault.Retirement Vault

In this episode of Business Lunch, Roland Frasier and Ryan Deiss discuss the evolving landscape of the customer journey, emphasizing the importance of trust in modern marketing. They explore how traditional stages of the buying process are being replaced by a more fluid approach, where trust becomes the key driver of transactions. Through case studies and examples, they highlight the significance of identity trust, authenticity, and the role of founders as trust agents in building strong connections with consumers. The conversation also touches on the challenges and strategies for effectively engaging audiences in both B2B and B2C contexts.Chapters00:00 The Death of the Traditional Customer Journey02:51 The Role of Trust in Modern Marketing06:09 Case Studies: Successful and Controversial Campaigns09:05 Identity Trust: Connecting with Consumers11:57 The Power of Authenticity in Advertising14:56 Building Trust in B2B vs B2C17:59 Actionable Strategies for Trust Building20:47 The Importance of Founders as Trust AgentsSpecial AnnouncementAfter 5 years of teaching entrepreneurs how to build, buy, and sell companies, I'm retiring all Epic courses and educational content permanently. This isn't because they didn't work, thousands have built real wealth with these frameworks, but because AI, capital markets, and collaboration have changed the game. I'm shifting from teaching deals to doing deals. Want access to everything before it disappears forever? This is your last chance to grab 5 years of proven frameworks, strategies, and training materials before they're gone for good. See the full story and whats going into the vault here: Go to the vaultConnect with me on social:TikTok: Check out my TikTok HereInstagram: Check out my Instagram HereFacebook: Check out my Facebook HereLinkedIn: Check out my LinkedIn HereSubscribe to my YouTube 👉  HereRESOURCES:• 7 Steps to Scalable workbook• Get my book, Zero Down, FREE

In this episode of Business Lunch, Roland Frasier and Ryan Deiss discuss the recent transition from Epic Network to a more focused approach with the Scalable Company. They explore the challenges of running a business that has taken on a life of its own, the importance of making changes when a business no longer serves its founders, and the evolving landscape of course creation in the age of AI. The conversation emphasizes the need for entrepreneurs to take action, embrace change, and focus on what truly brings them joy in their business endeavors.Chapters00:00 Introduction and Context of Change03:02 The Evolution of Epic Network05:58 The Decision to Pivot: Why Change is Necessary08:53 Understanding Business Ownership and Personal Happiness11:48 The Importance of Knowing What to Exit To14:56 The Future of Course and Information Businesses21:05 Lessons Learned from the Epic Network Experience30:35 The Reality of Course Consumption33:10 Reflections on 2020 and Business Decisions36:07 Navigating Change and Decision-Making40:06 What Would Need to Be True?43:12 Future Plans and New Directions46:24 Final Thoughts and Messages to the CommunitySpecial AnnouncementAfter 5 years of teaching entrepreneurs how to build, buy, and sell companies, I'm retiring all Epic courses and educational content permanently. This isn't because they didn't work, thousands have built real wealth with these frameworks, but because AI, capital markets, and collaboration have changed the game. I'm shifting from teaching deals to doing deals. Want access to everything before it disappears forever? This is your last chance to grab 5 years of proven frameworks, strategies, and training materials before they're gone for good. See the full story and whats going into the vault here: Go to the vaultConnect with me on social:TikTok: Check out my TikTok HereInstagram: Check out my Instagram HereFacebook: Check out my Facebook HereLinkedIn: Check out my LinkedIn HereSubscribe to my YouTube 👉  HereRESOURCES:• 7 Steps to Scalable workbook• Get my book, Zero Down, FREE

In this episode of the Business Lunch Podcast: We discuss the recent SEC lawsuit against Tai Lopez and the implications of his business model involving the acquisition of defunct retail brands. We analyze the challenges faced by the business, including operational complexities, funding issues, and the importance of having a strong leadership team. We also delve into strategies for revitalizing brands and the lessons learned from this case, emphasizing the need for careful investment and operational planning.TakeawaysThe importance of testing business models before full commitment.Operational complexity requires a strong team with relevant experience.Raising capital should be done with a clear plan for deployment.Brand recognition does not guarantee brand equity.Investors should evaluate the management team's experience and track record.Avoid getting caught up in hype when considering investments.Successful brand revitalization requires strategic marketing and operational support.Understanding consumer preferences is crucial for brand success.Invest in what you know and understand to minimize risk.Be cautious about raising outside capital and its implications.Chapters00:00 Introduction and Book Launches03:06 Tai Lopez SEC Lawsuit Discussion06:04 Business Model Analysis of Acquired Brands08:54 Operational Challenges and Funding Issues12:03 Strategic Recommendations for Brand Revitalization15:08 Lessons Learned from Investment Failures18:10 Final Thoughts and TakeawaysSpecial AnnouncementAfter 5 years of teaching entrepreneurs how to build, buy, and sell companies, I'm retiring all Epic courses and educational content permanently. This isn't because they didn't work, thousands have built real wealth with these frameworks, but because AI, capital markets, and collaboration have changed the game. I'm shifting from teaching deals to doing deals. Want access to everything before it disappears forever? This is your last chance to grab 5 years of proven frameworks, strategies, and training materials before they're gone for good. See the full story and whats going into the vault here: Go to the vaultConnect with me on social:TikTok: Check out my TikTok HereInstagram: Check out my Instagram HereFacebook: Check out my Facebook HereLinkedIn: Check out my LinkedIn HereSubscribe to my YouTube 👉  HereRESOURCES:• 7 Steps to Scalable workbook• Get my book, Zero Down, FREEMentioned in this episode:The VaultSpecial Announcement After 5 years of teaching entrepreneurs how to build, buy, and sell companies, I'm retiring all Epic courses and educational content permanently. This isn't because they didn't work,...

In this episode of Business Lunch(Snack Time): This conversation delves into the significant impact of the federal shutdown on small business financing, particularly focusing on the halt of SBA loans. It explores the resulting liquidity shock, the opportunities it presents for buyers, and the alternative financing strategies that can be employed during this period. The discussion also emphasizes the importance of preparation for sellers and outlines a rapid 10-day strategy for buyers to navigate the current market dynamics effectively.TakeawaysThe federal shutdown has halted SBA loans, impacting small business transactions.A liquidity shock creates temporary opportunities for buyers.Waiting for the SBA to reopen may lead to missed opportunities.Sellers should be flexible and ready to negotiate terms for certainty.Alternative financing options include seller financing and CVRs.Buyers need to prepare a clean deal package to be competitive post-shutdown.The urgency to act now is critical to avoid chaos when the SBA reopens.Understanding geographical concentrations of SBA loan blockages can inform strategy.A proactive approach is essential for both buyers and sellers in this market.The negotiation strategy should align incentives between buyers and sellers.Chapters00:00 Impact of Federal Shutdown on Small Business Transactions04:30 Navigating the Liquidity Shock: Opportunities for Buyers07:27 Alternative Financing Strategies During the Shutdown10:32 Preparing Sellers for a Quick Exit13:38 Aggressive Strategies for Buyers in a Tight Market16:13 snackable introI'm Retiringhttps://epicnetwork.com/epic-retirement-program-vault/Connect with me on social:TikTok: Check out my TikTok HereInstagram: Check out my Instagram HereFacebook: Check out my Facebook HereLinkedIn: Check out my LinkedIn HereSubscribe to my YouTube 👉  HereRESOURCES:I'm Retiring, See What Is Going In The Vault7 Steps to Scalable workbookGet my book, Zero Down, FREE

In this episode of Business Lunch: Roland Frasier and Ryan Deiss discuss the evolving landscape of personal branding and the necessity of becoming an embedded influencer in today's marketing environment. They explore the importance of having a unique point of view, the challenges of building a personal brand, and the strategies for creating engaging content across various platforms. The conversation emphasizes the need for authenticity and connection in branding, as well as actionable steps for listeners to develop their own personal brands effectively.Takeaways:Personal branding is essential in today's marketing landscape.Embedded influencers are more effective than traditional spokespeople.AI has made personal branding more accessible and manageable.Creating content is a necessary part of being a brand ambassador.A unique point of view is crucial for standing out.Character development is key in personal branding.Reluctance to be a public figure can be overcome with practice.Choosing the right content channels is vital for success.Engaging content formats can enhance audience connection.Brands should focus on building a community around their unique perspectives.Chapters:00:00 The Rise of Personal Branding05:56 The Necessity of Embedded Influencers12:02 Building Your Personal Brand18:06 Navigating Reluctance in Personal Branding24:06 The Three Pillars of Personal Branding29:53 Creating Content That Resonates35:56 Final Thoughts on Unique Points of ViewConnect with me on social:TikTok: Check out my TikTok HereInstagram: Check out my Instagram HereFacebook: Check out my Facebook HereLinkedIn: Check out my LinkedIn HereSubscribe to my YouTube 👉  HereRESOURCES:• 7 Steps to Scalable workbook• Get my book, Zero Down, FREE

AI isn’t just speeding up your work—it’s collapsing the market price of your time. In this urgent episode, we trace how the hourly model took over (from artisans to Taylorism to the FLSA), why it systematically funnels surplus value to owners, and why AI is about to accelerate that transfer for consultants, coders, strategists, and creators.Drawing on insights from Roland Frasier, we outline a practical pivot: Consulting for Equity (CFE). Trade your peak-leverage assets (judgment, access, strategic vision) for ownership stakes in businesses AI will amplify. The window to negotiate from strength is short—think 2–5 years. This is how you reconnect pay to outcomes and own a slice of the future you help create.🔑 Key TakeawaysTime vs. Value: The hourly system decoupled pay from outcomes—AI will finish the job by commoditizing execution.Urgency Window (2–5 Years): Use today’s credibility to negotiate equity before AI depresses fees and perceived human premium.CFE in Practice: Swap cash fees for equity when your expertise is decisive to growth (governance + vesting + KPIs).Trade What AI Can’t Replace:Judgment: High-stakes decisions under uncertainty.Access: Trust-based relationships and deal flow.Strategic Vision: Category design, non-obvious bets, sequencing.Outcome Math > Hourly Math: A single well-chosen 3–5% stake can outpace years of billable hours.Episode Highlights00:00 – Cold open: “Don’t outrun AI—trade expertise for equity while your bargaining power is highest.”00:24 – The coming value crash for knowledge workers in the AI era.01:21 – Roland Frasier’s thesis: AI destroys the perceived value of time-to-output.01:50 – Our mission: connect the history of hourly pay to today’s AI shift.02:24 – From artisans to factories: how ownership/control shifted from makers to capital.03:41 – Taylorism & the split: managers think, workers execute—replaceability rises.04:44 – FLSA codifies the hour; protections + unintended incentives for time-based pay.05:24 – Surplus value 101: why productivity gains accrue to owners, not labor.07:18 – The “great decoupling” and why AI accelerates it for knowledge work.08:40 – Market perception shift: “good enough” AI collapses premium rates.09:05 – The window: 2–5 years to convert expertise into equity.10:33 – CFE example: swap a $50k fee for 5% in a $2M SaaS that scales to $20M.11:47 – What to trade: judgment, access, vision (and how each compounds outcomes).13:32 – Action plan: identify your first CFE target this week.💬 Memorable Quotes“If you’re just selling time, AI will set your price.”“The play isn’t to outrun AI—it’s to own what AI will multiply.”“Equity reconnects your pay to the value you actually create.”“Trade judgment, access, and vision—because AI can’t.”Mentioned in This EpisodeRoland Frasier on the urgency of Consulting for Equity (CFE)Historical anchors: Putting-out system, Taylorism, FLSA (1938), surplus value & the productivity/pay decouplingCFE Mechanics: Equity-for-fee swaps, vesting tied to KPIs, governance basicsTry This This WeekList 3 businesses where your judgment, access, or vision could create step-change...