The Main Street Business Podcast hosted by Mark J. Kohler with co-host Mat Sorensen discuss complex tax and legal topics like LLCs, corporations, estate planning, raising capital, and retirement planning in an engaging and charismatic way, making it easy for anyone to understand. Mark J. Kohler has done over +10,000 consultations with clients, is a Senior Partner at KKOS Lawyers and CFO/Board Member of Directed IRA Trust Company with $2B+ in managed assets. He’s a best-selling author of six ...
…
continue reading
Welcome to the Poised for Exit podcast! Poised for Exit is an under 30-minute strategic planning guidance podcast for busy small business owners. Each week you’ll hear certified exit planning advisor, Julie Keyes, talk with a range of entrepreneurs and professionals about preparing your business for a future transition. Guests at every stage of company ownership will share their personal stories and lessons learned about topics such as the anatomy of the exit planning process, developing a g ...
…
continue reading
The most prolific podcasts for business owners preparing to transition a business. From transition preparedness to tax planning or driving value through operational enhancements; The EXIT is THE podcast that provides real life insights and access to a network of experienced advisors.
…
continue reading
Todd Eppert is a certified Business Coach, Executive Coach, and Exit Planning Advisor with FocalPoint Coaching. His goal is to help you work on your business instead of in it.
…
continue reading

1
Why Transparency and Trust Are Your Best Exit Strategies
29:19
29:19
Play later
Play later
Lists
Like
Liked
29:19In this episode of Poised for Exit, we’re joined by Cindy Leines, founder of CEL Marketing, a firm dedicated to helping mission-driven organizations communicate with purpose and build lasting trust. With decades of experience in strategic communications, branding, and reputation management, Cindy brings a unique perspective to the exit planning con…
…
continue reading

1
#578 The Complete Guide to Estate Planning
20:29
20:29
Play later
Play later
Lists
Like
Liked
20:29In this episode of the Main Street Business Podcast, Mark J. Kohler and Mat Sorensen explain why every adult—single or married, wealthy or not—needs a will and a revocable living trust. Learn the practical steps for setting up your estate plan, naming a trustee, and ensuring your assets stay protected and your wishes are followed. Here are some of …
…
continue reading

1
Estate and Tax Planning for Business Exits
28:38
28:38
Play later
Play later
Lists
Like
Liked
28:38In this episode of Poised for Exit, we’re joined by Cindy Mclagan and Jonathon Lansink from John A. Knutson & Co., PLLP. We sit down for an insightful conversation on estate and tax planning for business owners preparing to exit! Jonathon and Cindy address why proactive estate and tax strategies are critical for protecting generational wealth and e…
…
continue reading
In this episode of Poised for Exit, we’re joined by Leah Berend, founder and managing partner of Marrin Investment Partners, a private equity firm focused on investing in and growing purpose-driven businesses. Leah shares her unique journey from a background in leadership and due diligence to founding her own firm, one that’s rooted in integrity, w…
…
continue reading

1
#577 Which LLC is Right for Your Business
36:59
36:59
Play later
Play later
Lists
Like
Liked
36:59In this episode of the Main Street Business Podcast, Mark J. Kohler and Mat Sorensen take a deep dive into the six LLC structures every entrepreneur, investor, and licensed professional should understand. Whether you're starting a business, protecting rental properties, or building wealth with a high-net-worth strategy, this episode breaks down how…
…
continue reading
In this episode of Poised for Exit, we’re joined by Heide Olson, founder and CEO of All in One Accounting, a firm specializing in fractional CFO, controller, and accounting services for businesses and nonprofits. Heide shares her entrepreneurial journey, the lessons she learned while growing her company, and the critical role that financial systems…
…
continue reading

1
#576 How to Set Up a Family Office Without Being Ultra-Rich
16:23
16:23
Play later
Play later
Lists
Like
Liked
16:23In this episode of the Main Street Business Podcast, Mark J. Kohler shows how simple board meetings and a strategic plan can supercharge your finances. He explains how to turn ordinary family gatherings into legitimate, tax-deductible business meetings that strengthen your entity structure. Get inspired to organize your goals, sharpen your decision…
…
continue reading

1
#575 How to Turn NIL Deals Into Long-Term Wealth
31:21
31:21
Play later
Play later
Lists
Like
Liked
31:21In this episode of the Main Street Business Podcast, Mark J. Kohler and Max Merritt reveal how NIL athletes can turn short-term earnings into long-term wealth. From forming an LLC to electing S corp status and leveraging mega Roth strategies, they lay out the playbook every young athlete—and their advisors—should follow. Here are some of the highli…
…
continue reading
In this episode of Poised for Exit, we explore the often overlooked human side of exit planning, where leadership, culture, and legacy intersect. Our guest, Chuck Cooper, founder of Whitewater Consulting and author of The Family Business Blueprint, shares a wealth of experience helping family-owned businesses navigate the complexities of succession…
…
continue reading

1
The Ultimate Sale: Building Value and Living with Intention
29:00
29:00
Play later
Play later
Lists
Like
Liked
29:00In this episode of Poised for Exit, we sit down with Justin Goodbread, a lifelong entrepreneur who has built and sold multiple businesses and now coaches others to do the same. From launching his first company at 15 to achieving several seven-figure exits, Justin shares the biggest lessons he has learned about increasing company value, planning a s…
…
continue reading

1
#574 Stock Market Falls - 3 Strategies to Take Advantage and Build Wealth
8:00
8:00
Play later
Play later
Lists
Like
Liked
8:00In this video, I break down 3 strategies to help you navigate a market downturn: 1) The market always comes back – History shows us time and time again that corrections are normal and the market recovers. The key is staying invested. 2) Tax loss harvesting – This is a powerful tool to offset gains and reduce your tax bill. I’ll show you how to do i…
…
continue reading

1
The Power of Professional Collaboration in Exit Planning
26:38
26:38
Play later
Play later
Lists
Like
Liked
26:38In this episode of Poised for Exit, we’re joined by Michael Hubsmith of True North M&A and Mark Cheeley of Synergy Wealth Management, two seasoned professionals whose 15-year collaboration has helped countless business owners plan smarter, sell stronger, and retire confidently. Michael and Mark share real-world insights on how aligning M&A expertis…
…
continue reading

1
#573 How to Exit Your Business The RIGHT Way w/ Chris Van Dusen
30:15
30:15
Play later
Play later
Lists
Like
Liked
30:15In this episode of the Main Street Business Podcast, Mark J. Kohler welcomes Chris Van Dusen to unpack the biggest mistakes business owners make when trying to sell—and how to avoid them. From cleaning up your books to understanding your true enterprise value, this is your roadmap to a smarter exit. Here are some of the highlights: Mark and Chris e…
…
continue reading

1
#572 LLC Masterclass: Everything Every Business Owner Should Know!
35:47
35:47
Play later
Play later
Lists
Like
Liked
35:47In this episode of the Mainstreet Business podcast, host Mat Sorensen kicks off the LLC Masterclass series with the questions every entrepreneur, investor, and side hustler needs answered: Do you actually need an LLC? How do you set one up the right way? What about paying yourself? How many LLCs should you have? And which state should you form it i…
…
continue reading

1
How to Prepare Your Sales Process for Exit
24:04
24:04
Play later
Play later
Lists
Like
Liked
24:04In this episode of Poised for Exit, Tony Morse, CEO of Proliferate Performance & Profit, shares key insights for preparing your sales process for a successful exit. Tony dives into the critical importance of building a scalable sales program that operates independently of the founder, making the business more transferable and attractive to potentia…
…
continue reading

1
#571 How to Raise Money For Your Real Estate Deals w/ Hunter Thompson
43:55
43:55
Play later
Play later
Lists
Like
Liked
43:55In this episode of the Main Street Business Podcast, Mark J. Kohler welcomes real estate investor Hunter Thompson to uncover how to raise capital legally and effectively in today’s skeptical, high-interest market. From 506(c) strategies to scaling with the fund-of-funds model, this is a must-listen for serious investors. Here are some of the highli…
…
continue reading

1
Unlocking the Path to a Smooth Business Exit
25:02
25:02
Play later
Play later
Lists
Like
Liked
25:02In this episode of Poised for Exit, Jon Marquet from Trust Point shares invaluable insights into the essential strategies for a successful business exit. As an expert in retirement planning and business transitions, Jon provides expert advice on what business owners need to consider as they approach one of the biggest decisions of their careers. Jo…
…
continue reading

1
#570 Should I Be Afraid to File a Tax Extension (Listen before April 15)
1:07:30
1:07:30
Play later
Play later
Lists
Like
Liked
1:07:30In this episode of the Main Street Business Podcast, Mark J. Kohler and Mat Sorensen show how a tax extension can reduce stress, cut audit risk, and buy you time for smart tax moves. Get the facts on key deadlines, solo 401(k)s, and what to do now if you’re behind. Here are some of the highlights: Mark emphasizes that filing an extension gives time…
…
continue reading

1
Leading Through Change: Balancing AI, Innovation, and Workplace Culture
24:24
24:24
Play later
Play later
Lists
Like
Liked
24:24With a unique background in leadership, organizational strategy, and academia, Moira Petit brings fresh insight into the evolving relationship between AI and human leadership. As the co-founder and partner of Activ8 LLC and ProjectWe, she has firsthand experience in leading organizations through change. In this episode, we dive into how technology …
…
continue reading
With extensive experience in entrepreneurship and business investment, Jeff Porubcan and Jeff Thurston bring valuable insights into navigating partnerships and scaling businesses successfully. In this episode, we explore the challenges and rewards of co-ownership, as well as the key factors that contribute to a thriving business partnership. As par…
…
continue reading

1
#569 Tax Lawyer QnA: Strategies The Rich Use to Avoid Paying Taxes
50:48
50:48
Play later
Play later
Lists
Like
Liked
50:48In this episode of the Main Street Business Podcast, Mark J. Kohler and Mat Sorensen dive into listener questions about tax and business planning. From maximizing deductions on rental properties to creative financing strategies for commercial real estate and smart ways to restructure an LLC, they address the biggest tax and business concerns entrep…
…
continue reading

1
Succession Strategies: From Family Business to Legacy
35:52
35:52
Play later
Play later
Lists
Like
Liked
35:52With a background in law and expertise in mediation, Amy Wirtz brings a deep understanding of the challenges family businesses face when transitioning leadership. Our conversation explores how businesses evolve from single-family ownership to multi-generational enterprises, requiring new skill sets, structured leadership, and strategic planning. Am…
…
continue reading

1
#568 Asset Protection and Privacy: Reality or Illusion?
41:06
41:06
Play later
Play later
Lists
Like
Liked
41:06In this episode of the Main Street Business Podcast, Mark J. Kohler and Mat Sorensen give you the blueprint for bulletproof asset protection. From LLCs to trusts to holding companies, find out the smart, cost-effective strategies that work without the extra fluff. Here are some of the highlights: Mark & Mat break down the biggest asset protection s…
…
continue reading

1
Inside Scoop: Updates, Insights, & Future Plans
21:11
21:11
Play later
Play later
Lists
Like
Liked
21:11The week on the Poised for Exit podcast, I take the mic for a solo episode to share exciting updates for 2025! After nearly six years and approaching our 300th episode, I wanted to take this time to personally connect with you - our valued listeners - and give you an inside look at what's happening this year. First, I extend my gratitude to our inc…
…
continue reading
BOI Reporting Fines Canceled for U.S. Citizens & Businesses! Big news for U.S. business owners! The Treasury Department has announced that U.S. citizens and domestic businesses will not face fines or penalties for failing to file Beneficial Ownership Information (BOI) reports after new deadlines are set. Last week, FinCEN confirmed that updated BOI…
…
continue reading

1
#566 Can an RV be Deducted on Your Taxes? (RV Tax Strategies for 2025)
18:58
18:58
Play later
Play later
Lists
Like
Liked
18:58In this episode of the Main Street Business Podcast, Mark J. Kohler and Mat Sorensen break down tax-saving strategies for RV owners in 2025! Whether you're a weekend warrior or a full-time traveler, learn how to turn your RV into a business asset, claim deductions, and keep more money in your pocket. Here are some of the highlights: Mark and Mat pr…
…
continue reading

1
Building a Lasting Legacy: Succession & Strategy in Family Business
29:08
29:08
Play later
Play later
Lists
Like
Liked
29:08Keeping a family business thriving across generations isn’t easy, but Dr. Jeremy Lurey knows how to make it happen. As Founder and CEO of Family Legacy 1st, he’s spent over 20 years guiding family enterprises through leadership transitions, governance, and exit planning. Jeremy shares why succession planning is about more than just handing over the…
…
continue reading

1
#565 The Secrets To Taking Over ANY Niche w/Wendy Starland
36:03
36:03
Play later
Play later
Lists
Like
Liked
36:03In this episode of the Main Street Business Podcast, Mark J. Kohler sits down with music industry icon Wendy Starland to talk about the dark side of streaming services. Learn why & how artists are being shortchanged and how her new platform, Music Soul, is creating a fairer, brand-integrated ecosystem for musicians, fans, and businesses alike. Here…
…
continue reading

1
Leaving the System Behind: Dr. Aaron Boster's Story of Starting His Own MS Practice
24:09
24:09
Play later
Play later
Lists
Like
Liked
24:09Today I am excited to be joined by Dr. Aaron Boster, the founder of the Boster Center for Multiple Sclerosis. Dr. Boster is a multiple sclerosis neurologist who took an unplanned entrepreneurial journey, leaving academia and a large healthcare system to start his own standalone MS center. In this interview, we'll dive into Dr. Boster's background, …
…
continue reading

1
Exit Session: Discover How Scott Berger Successfully Sold His Family's Business, An HVAC Service Company to a Strategic Buyer
1:09:42
1:09:42
Play later
Play later
Lists
Like
Liked
1:09:42Join us for another enlightening episode of THE EXIT Podcast, where we explore the intricate process of selling a family business. Our guest, Scott Berger, President of Arista Air Conditioning, shares his personal journey through the complex maze of a business exit. From the initial consideration to sell, to the final steps of the transaction, Scot…
…
continue reading

1
#564 The BOI is Back! 99% of Small Business Owners Must File By March 19th
18:30
18:30
Play later
Play later
Lists
Like
Liked
18:30In this episode of the Main Street Business Podcast, Mark J. Kohler and Mat Sorensen explain FinCEN’s BOI requirement and what it means for LLCs and corporations. With compliance deadlines approaching fast, they provide expert guidance on how to file properly and avoid costly fines. Here are some of the highlights: Mark and Mat discuss the recent d…
…
continue reading

1
Exit Smarter: The role of CEO Peer Groups in Business Transitions
31:00
31:00
Play later
Play later
Lists
Like
Liked
31:00In this week’s episode, we sit down with Tina Corner Stolz, founder of LXCouncil and author of Your Seat at the Table, for an insightful conversation about the power of peer advisory groups in exit planning. Selling a business is one of the biggest financial and personal transitions an owner will ever face, and having a strong peer network can make…
…
continue reading

1
Disrupting the Trades Gap: How Alex Hogan is Innovating in Construction Staffing"
38:30
38:30
Play later
Play later
Lists
Like
Liked
38:30Today, we're excited to be joined by Alex Hogan, the president of two construction staffing companies - three PL and Flex Crew. Alex has an interesting entrepreneurial journey to share. Rather than pursuing a traditional corporate career path, Alex was invited by the CEO of the parent company, Watertown Enterprises, to join the business. In our con…
…
continue reading

1
Your Personal Plan: The Missing Link to a Great Exit!
23:18
23:18
Play later
Play later
Lists
Like
Liked
23:18Our guest for this episode is Cindy Jennings, Founder of Interwovenly, a firm specializing in turning owners’ aspirations into post-exit action plans! Cindy has been leading owners and executives in creating their ideal personal plan for many years. She's seen many owners regret their decision to sell, and for reasons that have nothing to do with h…
…
continue reading

1
#563 Open Forum - HSA's, Picking a CPA, Venmo & More
44:25
44:25
Play later
Play later
Lists
Like
Liked
44:25In this episode of the Main Street Business Podcast, Mark J. Kohler and Mat Sorensen answer your top tax and legal questions. From choosing the right tax advisor (without overpaying for empty credentials) to navigating HSAs, S corp taxation, and solo 401(k) limitations—this episode is packed with practical strategies to keep your business and inves…
…
continue reading

1
Adapting Digital Tools for Political and Business Success with Adam Hyland
53:42
53:42
Play later
Play later
Lists
Like
Liked
53:42In this episode, Adam Hyland, founder of Ekanova and Go Nova, provides an inside look at his dual-focused marketing agency. Adam explains how his company leverages digital tools to drive political and commercial campaigns, noting the unique complexities of the political space. He shares strategies for building engaged email lists, adapting to marke…
…
continue reading

1
EPI's Chapter Network: A Vital Resource for Owners and Advisors!
22:28
22:28
Play later
Play later
Lists
Like
Liked
22:28Our special guest today is none other than Todd Krough, incoming President of the Twin Cities Metro Area EPI Chapter. Todd is also a financial advisor and wealth planner with MN Bank & Trust and is a CEPA as well. Todd has been an active member of the Chapter, almost since its inception in 2016. Our discussion today revolved around how the Chapter …
…
continue reading

1
#562 How to Sell Your Business and Save on Taxes
12:07
12:07
Play later
Play later
Lists
Like
Liked
12:07In this episode of the Main Street Business Podcast, Mark J. Kohler explains how to successfully transition out of your business while maximizing value. From setting up a seamless family succession plan to making your business more appealing for a third-party sale, he shares practical steps to ensure a smooth and profitable exit. Tune in for expert…
…
continue reading

1
From Employee to Entrepreneur: How Jordan Danko Built a Thriving Design Services Firm
37:05
37:05
Play later
Play later
Lists
Like
Liked
37:05In this episode, Jordan Danko shares the inspiration behind starting his own company, the challenges he's faced in transitioning from an employee to a business owner, and the strategies he's employed to maintain work-life balance. He also discusses how he's innovating his business model to stay relevant in a constantly evolving industry. Whether yo…
…
continue reading

1
#561 The Step-By-Step "Zero-Tax" Blueprint For Business Owners
28:27
28:27
Play later
Play later
Lists
Like
Liked
28:27In this episode of the Main Street Business Podcast, Mark J. Kohler shares the blueprint for tax-efficient business ownership. He explains why smart bookkeeping is key, how to leverage deductions, and when to transition from an LLC to an S corp for optimal tax savings. If you’re tired of overpaying the IRS, this episode is a must-listen! Here are s…
…
continue reading
In this episode of Poised for Exit, we’re joined by Ruba Khairi and Ahmed Mousa, a dynamic husband-and-wife team of business brokers at Sunbelt Business Advisors. Their journey into business brokerage is anything but ordinary. In 2018, they were prospective buyers themselves, exploring business ownership before being drawn to the world of business …
…
continue reading

1
#560 How Business Owners Hold a Family Board Meeting
10:59
10:59
Play later
Play later
Lists
Like
Liked
10:59In this episode of the Main Street Business Podcast, Mark J. Kohler uncovers the secret to saving big on taxes and strengthening your business—the family board meeting. Discover how to legally write off travel, meals, and payments to family members, while staying compliant and building financial security. Mark breaks down the process step by step, …
…
continue reading

1
From Start Up to Sustainability: Nate Sheen Shares His Advice for Fellow Entreprenuers
20:23
20:23
Play later
Play later
Lists
Like
Liked
20:23Today, we're excited to be joined by Alex Hogan, the president of two construction staffing companies - three PL and Flex Crew. Alex has an interesting entrepreneurial journey to share. Rather than pursuing a traditional corporate career path, Alex was invited by the CEO of the parent company, Watertown Enterprises, to join the business. In our con…
…
continue reading

1
Is an ESOP Right for You as a Liquidity or Exit Planning Strategy?
28:07
28:07
Play later
Play later
Lists
Like
Liked
28:07Our featured guest in this episode is Leslie Lauer, Managing Director and Senior Portfolio Manager at RBC Wealth Management. Leslie specializes in ESOPs, and shared some highlights of her years of experience as a trusted advisor. Leslie's background in banking and accounting was the foundation for her career path to advising on deal structure for E…
…
continue reading

1
#559 Retroactive S-Election for 2024: Why & How
21:55
21:55
Play later
Play later
Lists
Like
Liked
21:55In this episode of the Main Street Business Podcast, Mark J. Kohler and Mat Sorensen share powerful insights on why converting your LLC to an S corporation is a game-changer for tax savings. They discuss the crucial tax advantages, the importance of structuring income properly, and walk you through the filing process. Find out how you could potenti…
…
continue reading

1
You are the Prize: Attracting Buyers vs Soliciting Them
28:23
28:23
Play later
Play later
Lists
Like
Liked
28:23Our guest for this show is Rick Brimacomb, CEO and Founder of Brimacomb Capital and Club Entrepreneur. Rick has been involved in deal-making and Venture Capital investments for many years, and he shared how he has become so successful. Rick's approach is as a side-by-side confidante and close colleague to the owners of the companies he invests in. …
…
continue reading

1
#558 The 1 Year Rule: How The Rich Dominate Business
35:32
35:32
Play later
Play later
Lists
Like
Liked
35:32In this episode of the Main Street Business Podcast, Mark J. Kohler and Mat Sorensen explain how to create a comprehensive, actionable plan for the year ahead. They discuss the value of aligning your goals with a long-term vision and offer tips for making measurable progress while staying flexible enough to adapt as needed. Here are some of the hig…
…
continue reading

1
Pivoting and Adapting: How Peggy Gruenke Grew CPN Legal to 30 Employees
24:35
24:35
Play later
Play later
Lists
Like
Liked
24:35In this episode, Peggy Gruenke, the founder and co-owner of CPN Legal. Peggy has an incredible entrepreneurial journey to share - from her background in computer science and managing law firms, to starting her own bookkeeping business for the legal community. Over the course of our conversation, Peggy will discuss what sparked her decision to becom…
…
continue reading

1
"Saying 'No' to Grow: Lessons in Entrepreneurship from Auctioneer Andy White"
16:28
16:28
Play later
Play later
Lists
Like
Liked
16:28In this episode, I'm joined by Andy White, the owner and auctioneer at RES Auction Services. Andy has been in the auction industry for over 22 years, and has grown his company RES Auction Services to specialize in real estate, heavy equipment, construction, and agricultural equipment auctions. In this in-depth interview, Andy shares his entrepreneu…
…
continue reading

1
Early Stages of a Generational Transition: Mother and Daughter share their story
25:28
25:28
Play later
Play later
Lists
Like
Liked
25:28JTeleconnections, or "JTel" has been in business for nearly 30 years. We had the pleasure of hosting two of the partners in the company, who happen to be family members. Mother and daughter team, Jody and Paige Weinberg joined us for this episode of Poised for Exit. We talked about how they are working toward Paige taking over the business in the f…
…
continue reading