The Margin Method™ Podcast is for founders who want to grow intentionally creating profit, systems, and freedom at every stage. Hosted by Steve Coughran, a founder and strategic finance expert who’s led billion-dollar turnarounds, this show shares real-world strategies to build financial, operational, and leadership margin the true foundation of a business that scales, sustains, and sells. Because margin isn’t just about better numbers. It’s about building a business that gives you profit, f ...
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The Boosting Your Financial IQ podcast deconstructs accounting and financial concepts to provide listeners with a holistic understanding of how money works and how to create more value. The host, Steve Coughran, brings his wealth of experience working as a business owner, management consultant, and CFO to share examples, stories, and analogies that deepen business acumen and build skills related to financial literacy. Boosting Your Financial IQ centers in on financial and accounting topics t ...
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In the Strategic Financial Leadership podcast, finance expert and former CFO, Steve Coughran, covers the latest in business strategy, corporate finance, and economics. This weekly podcast is a forum for candid conversations with leading voices to discuss the trends, approaches, and innovations shaping the future of business and the finance function. Increasingly, CFOs are mired in detail and complexity at the risk of neglecting true value creation activities – analysis and strategic improvem ...
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Planning strategies for doing more with your money on the path to financial independence DO MORE WITH YOUR MONEY will teach you how to optimize taxes, invest strategically, and plan for financial flexibility and long-term independence. CFP® Pro T.J. van Gerven shares his expertise in the areas of equity compensation, diversification, and sustaining financial independence. To learn more about TJ's independent advisory firm, Modern Wealth Builders, head to modernwealthbuilders.com
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108: The Hidden Value Killers in Your Business Model
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12:49Send us a text More growth doesn’t always mean more profit. In this episode of The Margin Method Steve Coughran uncovers the silent value killers hiding inside your business model and how to fix them. If your revenue is rising but your margins aren't, it's time to take a closer look under the hood. Get ready to rethink profitability and discover th…
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Send us a text What makes a business truly sellable and why should it matter even if you never plan to sell? In this powerful episode of The Margin Method Steve challenges founders to think differently about value, risk, and how to future-proof their companies. Whether you're years from exiting or never intend to, this conversation will reshape how…
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106:The 5 Metrics Every Founder Must Know Cold
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18:32Send us a text Most founders track revenue but what about the metrics that really matter? In this episode of The Margin Method Steve reveals the five financial indicators every founder must know cold to grow profitably, lead with clarity, and build a sellable business. These aren't numbers for your accountant—these are the signals that guide smart …
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105: Scale with Systems, Not Just Headcount
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13:22Send us a text Think you’re scaling? You might just be multiplying chaos. In this episode of The Margin Method Steve breaks down the dangerous myth that growth means adding more people and reveals why true scale is built through systems, not headcount. With stories, red flags, and a powerful 3-pillar framework, he shows you how to escape the growth…
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104: You’re Making Money- So Why Is There No Cash?
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17:14Send us a text Your income statement says you're winning so why does it feel like you're broke? In this episode of The Margin Method Steve unpacks one of the most common (and costly) issues business owners face: the disconnect between profit and cash. Through relatable stories and a simple four-step framework, he explains why profit is just the sto…
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Send us a text In this special episode, Steve delivers a heartfelt message and shares an important update. Tune in for reflections, surprises, and what’s coming next. If this show has ever helped you grow your financial IQ, you won’t want to miss this one. Disclaimer: BYFIQ, LLC is a wholly owned entity of Coltivar Group, LLC. The views expressed h…
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103: The Biggest Lie About Scaling a Business
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13:43Send us a text Feeling overwhelmed by growth? In this kickoff episode of The Margin Method Steve challenges the biggest myth in business: that more revenue means more success. Through real stories and hard-won lessons, he breaks down why most companies stall when scaling—and the three foundations that separate busy businesses from valuable ones: sy…
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165: What Is a Good Profit Margin for a Small Business?
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13:54Send us a text Master business finance for free with 100+ video lessons—no gimmicks, no hooks, just valuable knowledge: https://www.byfiq.com/ What is a good profit margin for a small business? In this episode of Boosting Your Financial IQ, Steve unpacks the truth behind profit margins—what they really mean, why they vary across industries, and how…
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164: How to Increase Profit in a Business?
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22:03Send us a text Master business finance for free with 100+ video lessons—no gimmicks, no hooks, just valuable knowledge: https://www.byfiq.com/ Profit isn’t a reward, it’s a system. In this episode of Boosting Your Financial IQ, Steve breaks down the essential strategies behind building a truly profitable business. Whether you lead a growing company…
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163: Why is My Business Not Making a Profit?
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25:18Send us a text Master business finance for free with 100+ video lessons—no gimmicks, no hooks, just valuable knowledge: https://www.byfiq.com/ Your company is generating real revenue, but where’s the profit? In this episode of Boosting Your Financial IQ, Steve unpacks the most common (and often hidden) reasons businesses struggle to turn revenue in…
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162: How Smart CEOs Think About Money – What They Focus on (And What They Ignore)
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16:35Send us a text Master business finance for free with 100+ video lessons—no gimmicks, no hooks, just valuable knowledge: https://www.byfiq.com/ Steve reveals the five things financially savvy CEOs focus on (and the common traps they avoid) to build cash-rich, high-growth companies. If you’re ready to shift from operator to strategic thinker, this on…
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161: Should You Work for a Wage or Own the Business Understanding Your True Earning Potential
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16:39Send us a text Master business finance for free with 100+ video lessons—no gimmicks, no hooks, just valuable knowledge: https://www.byfiq.com/ Steve answers a listener's heartfelt question: should you work for a wage or build your own business? Through a raw and personal backstory from blizzards at Dairy Queen to building a multimillion-dollar comp…
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160: Strategic Finance Explained: What It Is & How to Use It for Business Growth
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14:13Send us a text Master business finance for free with 100+ video lessons—no gimmicks, no hooks, just valuable knowledge: https://www.byfiq.com/ Most companies get stuck in operating finance, but the real power lies in strategic finance where financial insights drive big decisions and long-term growth. In this episode, Steve breaks down the key diffe…
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159: 3 Must Have Metrics for Business Owners
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14:09Send us a text Master business finance for free with 100+ video lessons—no gimmicks, no hooks, just valuable knowledge: https://www.byfiq.com/ Running a business is like spinning plates—but how do you know if it's truly efficient? In this episode of Boosting Your Financial IQ, Steve reveals three key metrics every business must measure to drive gro…
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158: Cash Flow for Business Owners: How to Forecast, Manage, and Get More of It
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15:57Send us a text Master business finance for free with 100+ video lessons—no gimmicks, no hooks, just valuable knowledge: https://www.byfiq.com/ Where’s your cash going? Even thriving businesses can feel stuck when money flows in and out without clarity. In this episode, Steve Coughran reveals why cash flow confusion isn’t your fault — and how to fix…
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Send us a text Think you know strategy? In this interactive episode, Steve puts your business knowledge to the test with a round of strategy trivia. From the key difference between strategy and strategic planning to how to measure if your company’s strategy is actually working, this episode challenges common misconceptions and reveals the essential…
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Send us a text Master business finance for free with 100+ video lessons—no gimmicks, no hooks, just valuable knowledge: https://www.byfiq.com/ Think you understand cash flow? Steve puts your financial knowledge to the test in this interactive trivia-style episode. From the difference between profit and cash flow to why profitable companies still go…
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156: If You’re Looking for a Job, Listen to This
10:21
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10:21Send us a text Master business finance for free with 100+ video lessons—no gimmicks, no hooks, just valuable knowledge: https://www.byfiq.com/ Steve has hired countless employees, and the hiring process never fails to shock him. From no-shows to unpolished resumes, he’s seen it all. In this episode, he shares the brutal truths job seekers need to h…
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101: A Resource to Help You with Strategy and Cash Flow
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8:15Send us a text Most entrepreneurs chase growth, but what if scaling too fast is the very thing that takes your business down? In this episode, Steve unpacks the fundamental flaw that causes even promising companies to fail—and it has nothing to do with bad ideas, weak teams, or lack of vision. It all comes down to one essential financial principle …
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155: The One Truth I'll Never Stop Sharing About Finance
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10:37Send us a text Master business finance for free with 100+ video lessons—no gimmicks, no hooks, just valuable knowledge: https://www.byfiq.com/ Most professionals know financial literacy is crucial, yet few follow through. In this episode, Steve Coughran uncovers why so many start strong but fail to finish—and what it takes to break the cycle. Throu…
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100: When It Comes to Strategy, Make Sure You Have These 5 Things
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9:40Send us a text Is your business set up for success in 2025, or will you look back wishing you'd done things differently? Steve Coughran breaks down the five essential components every company must have in place—from a clear strategy to financial forecasting and KPIs. Without these, you're flying blind. Learn how to set your business up to drive gro…
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154: 3 Things I Learned as CFO of a Billion Dollar Company
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13:26Send us a text Master business finance for free with 100+ video lessons—no gimmicks, no hooks, just valuable knowledge: https://www.byfiq.com/ What does it really take to lead the financial strategy of a billion-dollar company? Steve Coughran reveals the three biggest lessons he learned as CFO—insights that every business leader needs to know. From…
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99: How Do You Know If Your Strategy Is Working?
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9:17Send us a text Most businesses focus on growth, culture, and innovation—but what if you're missing the one thing that truly keeps a company alive? In this episode, Steve reveals the brutal truth about why so many businesses fail, the hidden trap leaders fall into, and how to tell for sure if your strategy is actually working. If you're waiting on t…
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153: Don't Let Numbers Be an Excuse for Inaction
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8:41Send us a text Master business finance for free with 100+ video lessons—no gimmicks, no hooks, just valuable knowledge: https://www.byfiq.com/ Too many leaders hide behind financial data, delaying action until every number is perfectly in place. But in reality, execution drives results—not spreadsheets. In this episode, Steve challenges the mindset…
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#138: Understanding Money Trauma and Cultivating Healthy Financial Habits with Shannah Game
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32:34On this episode of 'Do More With Your Money,' T.J. van Gerven chats with Certified Financial Planner and money expert Shannah Game. Shannah, who hosts the successful podcast 'Everyone's Talking Money' and authored 'Unraveling Your Relationship With Money,' shares insights from her career on financial planning and education. The discussion delves in…
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98: What Is ROIC and Its Impact on Your Strategy?
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16:40Send us a text Are you building a business that truly creates value, or just chasing growth? In this episode, Steve breaks down the powerful connection between strategy and finance—and why Return on Invested Capital (ROIC) is the key to long-term success. Discover why profitability alone isn’t enough, how 70% of bankrupt companies were still making…
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152: If You Want to Be a Profitable Entrepreneur, Listen to This
7:25
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7:25Send us a text Master business finance for free with 100+ video lessons—no gimmicks, no hooks, just valuable knowledge: https://www.byfiq.com/ Got a brilliant business idea? Great! But can you explain your unit economics, break-even point, or burn rate? Most people can’t—and that’s why they fail. In this episode of Boosting Your Financial IQ, disco…
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97: How AI Will Impact Your Strategy and Competitive Advantage
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9:10Send us a text AI is reshaping the business landscape—are you ready for it? In this episode, discover how AI is equalizing competition, creating distractions, and accelerating the pace of business. Steve reveals the hidden pitfalls and opportunities of AI, sharing insights on how leaders can stay focused, act with precision, and develop winning str…
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151: Can You Fake It Till You Make It in Finance?
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8:09Send us a text Master business finance for free with 100+ video lessons—no gimmicks, no hooks, just valuable knowledge: https://www.byfiq.com/ Ever felt the panic of being promoted into a leadership role, only to realize you're expected to speak fluently in the language of numbers? You're not alone—and you don't have to wing it. In this episode of …
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Send us a text Master business finance for free with 100+ video lessons—no gimmicks, no hooks, just valuable knowledge: https://www.byfiq.com/ What began as a simple idea to teach financial literacy has grown beyond my wildest dreams—all thanks to you. Your support, shares, and feedback make this journey possible, and I’m truly honored to have you …
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96: Why Your Business Isn’t as Profitable as It Could Be
19:27
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19:27Send us a text Struggling to turn your hard work into real profits? You’re not alone—but you don’t have to settle for less. In this episode, Steve uncovers the five key areas that could be holding your business back from reaching its full profit potential. From crafting an irresistible offer to fixing pricing strategies and eliminating costly distr…
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150: The X Factor and How it Drives Higher Profits
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7:55
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7:55Send us a text Master business finance for free with 100+ video lessons—no gimmicks, no hooks, just valuable knowledge: https://www.byfiq.com/ What if a single number could transform how you think about discounts, broken tools, or even your team’s decisions? In this episode, Steve reveals the "X Factor"—a deceptively simple formula that will make y…
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149: The 4 Levers of Profit You Must Know
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11:41Send us a text Master business finance for free with 100+ video lessons—no gimmicks, no hooks, just valuable knowledge: https://www.byfiq.com/ Are you leaving money on the table without even knowing it? In this episode of BYFIQ, Steve dives straight into the four levers of profitability—the critical factors that can make or break your bottom line. …
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95: Winning with Strategy - The Surprising Power of the 'F Word'
13:48
13:48
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13:48Send us a text Why do smart, capable leaders struggle to execute strategy? It all comes down to focus. In this episode, learn how to overcome distractions, tackle your biggest strategic problem, and drive real results. Discover the proven system Steve has used to turn around and grow businesses—without chasing the latest trends. If you’re ready to …
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148: If You Are 15-25 Years Old, Listen to This
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15:17Send us a text Master business finance for free with 100+ video lessons—no gimmicks, no hooks, just valuable knowledge: https://www.byfiq.com/ Are you ready to make decisions today that your future self will thank you for? In this episode of Boosting Your Financial IQ, Steve dives into the life-changing milestones and tough lessons learned on the j…
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94: Ready to Revisit Your Strategy? Start Here.
8:56
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8:56Send us a text Are you ready to make 2025 the year your business truly thrives? In this episode, Steve uncovers the game-changing strategy to escape the cycle of frustration and unlock your company's full potential. Discover why most businesses stay stuck, the hidden power of defining your strategic problem, and how solving it can transform your fi…
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147: Want to Increase Your Financial IQ? Here's Exactly How to Get Started
22:29
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22:29Send us a text Master business finance for free with 100+ video lessons—no gimmicks, no hooks, just valuable knowledge: https://www.byfiq.com/ In this episode of Boosting Your Financial IQ, Steve shares a game-changing opportunity to master your finances—all for free. He walks you through the first steps to improving your financial skills, no matte…
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146: I Promise This Will Change Your Financial Future
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18:23Send us a text Master business finance for free with 100+ video lessons—no gimmicks, no hooks, just valuable knowledge: https://www.byfiq.com/ Finance is the language of business, and becoming fluent in it can transform your life. In this episode, Steve shares a bold move: his premium financial literacy courses are now completely free. No strings a…
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93: How Setting KPIs Can Make a Difference in Your Company
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12:12Send us a text Are your KPIs driving real results—or just taking up space? In this episode, discover how to set the right KPIs that align with your strategy, unlock value, and keep your team focused on what truly matters. Learn the secrets behind simplifying metrics, avoiding common pitfalls, and using a value logic tree to track what drives succes…
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145: What is Invested Capital and Why Should You Care
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13:24Send us a text Is your business truly profitable, or is it running on borrowed time? In this episode of Boosting Your Financial IQ, Steve dives into the game-changing concept of invested capital—what it is, why it matters, and how it can transform your decision-making and growth strategy. Learn how to measure efficiency, allocate resources wisely, …
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Send us a text Is your business strategy holding you back? In this episode, Steve explains the key to crafting a winning strategy: identifying and solving your organization’s #1 constraint. Learn why less can mean more, how to focus on high-impact actions, and why jumping straight to tactics could derail your success. Tune in to discover a simple y…
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91: 5 Financial Metrics You Should Know in Your Business
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12:01Send us a text Are you running your business blind? In this episode, Steve Coughran, founder of Coltivar, reveals the five critical metrics you need to know to stop guessing and start growing. Learn how to optimize margins, improve cash flow, and make smarter, data-driven decisions—lessons Steve learned from scaling multi-million and billion-dollar…
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144: Profit Explained. The Difference Between Gross, Operating, and Net
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12:27Send us a text In this episode of Boosting Your Financial IQ, Steve dives deep into the three critical types of profit every business leader must understand. Gross profit, operating profit, and net profit each hold the key to uncovering your business's financial health—and mastering them can set you apart in the boardroom and beyond. Discover how t…
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Send us a text What is value, really? Most business leaders can’t define it, yet it holds the key to transforming financial and operational performance. Join Steve , founder of Coltivar, as he unpacks the elusive "value formula," revealing how businesses can strategically increase firm value through price premiums, cost efficiencies, and sustainabl…
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143: Neglecting This Aspect of Revenue Recognition Can Harm Your Business
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8:19Send us a text Is your profit really profit—or just an illusion? In this episode, Steve pulls back the curtain on the hidden traps of cash-basis accounting, exposing how tools like QuickBooks can trick business owners into celebrating wins that don’t exist. With a jaw-dropping example from the construction world, he reveals how premature revenue re…
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89: Better Financial Results Start With This
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7:59Send us a text Want to boost profits and accountability across your organization? In this episode, Steve shares proven methods from decades of turning around million and billion-dollar companies. Discover two powerful approaches—macro and granular—for assigning financial responsibility across your team. Learn how to transform financial statements i…
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#137: Understanding the Tax Benefits of S Corp Elections vs. LLC with John Briggs
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47:48In this episode of "Do More With Your Money," T.J. van Gerven is joined by John Briggs, CEO of Incite Tax. John shares his entrepreneurial journey and insights into tax planning, client relationships, and the importance of understanding actual profits. Key topics include the benefits of electing S Corporation status for tax savings, the Qualified B…
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88: Listen to This Before You Set Another Business Goal
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16:04Send us a text Is your business stuck chasing goals that don’t move the needle? In this episode, Steve shares his proven five-step framework to set goals that solve your biggest challenges and drive real results. Learn how to identify your organization’s key constraint, create focused initiatives, and execute actions that lead to measurable success…
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142: Want to Learn Finance? Here's How to Get Started
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15:49Send us a text Discover how Steve turned early struggles into a roadmap for financial mastery. From building multimillion-dollar businesses to creating over $1 billion in value, Steve shares the seven steps that transformed his financial IQ. Packed with personal stories, surprising lessons (including a hilarious twist involving a Spanish class), an…
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87: The Key to Revolutionizing Products, Sales, and Operations
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14:37Send us a text Are you leaving massive growth on the table? Discover the untold strategies behind building billion-dollar companies and turning failing businesses into unstoppable forces. In this episode, Steve reveals how to pinpoint your ideal customers, create products they can’t resist, and optimize every part of your business for explosive res…
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