Faces of Finance

Mitigating the Negative Impact of Risk in Your Business with Meredith Messenger

Insurance is much more than a “necessary evil'' for your business. On this episode of Faces of Finance, host Shawnna Weber is joined by Meredith Messenger, an Operations and Risk Management Consultant and Founder & CEO of InsureGood. She joins our host to chat all about her experience in the insurance and risk management industry. Tune in to hear more about selecting your insurance provider, scaling risk management to businesses, and ways of systematically identifying, evaluating, and mitigating the negative impact of risk on you and your business. Highlights: * [02:15] Meredith describes scaling risk management for businesses. * [08:30] Cyber liability and risk for businesses. * [19:53] Tips on selecting your insurance provider. * [29:00] How business can be more cost-effective. * [36:38] Red flags to pay attention to in business. About Meredith Messenger: Meredith Messenger is the go-to Operations and Risk Management Consultant for rapidly growing businesses. She is the perfect partner for visionary C.E.O.s; acting as their second brain and extension of their team, her firm works with leaders to quickly optimize operations, increase profitability, and reduce risks. Meredith has spent almost two decades in various roles in the risk management and insurance industries and holds several advanced designations. She has held consulting and executive leadership roles with teams ranging from 3 to 25+ in several Fortune 100 firms. In addition, she has worked with hundreds of small businesses, helping them scale profitability. In 2020, Meredith founded InsureGood – a risk management firm that combines traditional, time-tested operational strategies and risk management with insurance expertise to position businesses for success while providing opportunities for underrepresented populations in the insurance industry. She serves on several boards, including the Connecticut Independent Agents & Brokers Association. Meredith speaks regularly on stages of all sizes on topics related to business success including Leadership, Equity Diversity and Inclusion, Operations, and Risk Management. Social Links: Insure Good [https://insuregood.org/] Insure Good on LinkedIn [https://www.linkedin.com/company/insuregood/] Insure Good on IG [https://www.instagram.com/insuregood_/] Insure Good on Facebook [https://www.facebook.com/InsureGoodAgency] Quotes: “As business leaders, we're constantly navigating the business landscape to minimize the negative impacts of risk while bringing out the potential for the rewards involved in the risks that we take as business owners.” - Meredith Messenger “Insurance really is a tool for you to manage your finances and your cash flow more effectively.” - Meredith Messenger Disclaimer: This podcast discussion is for informational purposes only and not for the purpose of providing medical,  legal or financial advice. You should contact your doctor, attorney or financial advisor to obtain advice with respect to any particular issue or problem. Visit: www.edgysolutions.com [http://www.edgysolutions.com/]

Standing Out From Your Competition - An Interview with Tommy Mello

Tommy Mello is the founder of A1 Garage Doors, a $50 million-plus home service business with over 360 employees in 19 states. Tommy speaks about the inspiration behind his company, and gives tips for people who are establishing their businesses. We uncover the steps you need to take when expanding and how you can strategize your company’s growth. Tune in as we talk about standing out from your competition, and Tommy gives even more informative advice for business owners. IN THIS EPISODE: * [01:25] The inspiration behind Tommy’s business, A1 Garage Doors. * [07:30] When establishing your business, Tommy reveals some of the key elements you need to keep in mind. * [10:45] The first steps you need to take when expanding your business. * [17:00] How Tommy strategized to accommodate the growth of his business. * [29:30] Tommy reveals how to stand out from the competition. * [35:00] Tommy’s final advice for business owners. KEY TAKEAWAYS: * Knowing what your numbers are will help propel your business in the way you intend it to go. * Employees are everything when it comes to the client experience. * Customers are a one-time deal, and clients are an ongoing relationship. Figure out how to turn your customers into clients. * When starting a business, pretend you're going to start a franchise; always intend to scale. QUOTES: “Go find a business you love and get involved with that business.” - Tommy Mello “Some people say they want to be well rounded. That's the biggest mistake you could make.” - Tommy Mello LINKS MENTIONED: * Website: https://homeserviceexpert.com/ [https://homeserviceexpert.com/] * Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/asktommy/ [https://www.instagram.com/asktommy/] * Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/thomasmello/ [https://www.facebook.com/thomasmello/] &https://www.facebook.com/groups/2732901080161138/ [https://www.facebook.com/groups/2732901080161138/] * LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/tommymello/ [https://www.linkedin.com/in/tommymello/] BOOKS MENTIONED: * The E-Myth Revisited: Why Most Small Businesses Don't Work and What to Do About It by Michael E. Gerber [https://www.amazon.com/Myth-Revisited-Small-Businesses-About/dp/0887307280] * The Ultimate Sales Machine: Turbocharge Your Business with Relentless Focus on 12 Key Strategies by Chet Holmes [https://www.amazon.com/Ultimate-Sales-Machine-Turbocharge-Relentless/dp/1591842158] * The Richest Man in Babylon by George Samuel Clason [https://www.amazon.com/Richest-Man-Babylon-George-Clason/dp/1505339111] * Rich Dad Poor Dad: What the Rich Teach Their Kids About Money That the Poor and Middle Class Do Not! Mass Market by Robert T. Kiyosaki [https://www.amazon.com/Rich-Dad-Poor-Teach-Middle/dp/1612680194] * Home Service Millionaire: How I Went from $50,000 in Debt to a $30 Million+ Business in Seven Years by Tommy Mello [https://www.amazon.com/Home-Service-Millionaire-Million-Business/dp/1732452105] * Go for No! Yes is the Destination, No is How You Get There by Richard Fenton, Andrea Waltz [https://www.amazon.com/Yes-Destination-How-You-There/dp/0966398130] * Creating Competitive Advantage: Give Customers a Reason to Choose You Over Your Competitors by Jaynie L. Smith [https://www.amazon.com/Creating-Competitive-Advantage-Customers-Competitors/dp/0385517092] * Raving Fans by Ken Blanchard [https://www.amazon.com/Raving-Blanchard-Bowles-Sheldon-first/dp/B00BW8JXPW] * Influence by Robert B Cialdini [https://www.target.com/p/influence-by-robert-b-cialdini-hardcover/-/A-81775474] BIO: Tommy Mello is the founder of A1 Garage Doors, a $50 million-plus home service business with over 360 employees in 17 states. He shares what he's learned at Homeservicesexpert.com to help fellow business owners grow their businesses.

College Planning and Application Process with Liz Murphy

Many aspects of our family life intersect with our finances. A topic that comes up frequently is planning for our child's college education, both financially and being accepted into a college of choice. That's why we are lucky to have Liz Murphy, the Founder, and Owner of Liz Murphy College Advising, join the show. First, Liz explains why high school students need to start their college research during junior year. If you're confused about the application process, there are many benefits of collaborating with a college advisor. Tune in as Liz reveals the steps that parents should take to prepare for college financially, and she gives application tips for financial aid. Highlights: * The best way to keep costs low for college is by attending in-state public universities. * Look for universities that are going to offer students significant institutional aid through need-based aid or merit awards. * Leave your car at home; it can add to your expenses while at college. * The most significant benefit of working with a college advisor is that they can save you money and time. About Liz Murphy: Liz Murphy: Founder/Owner, Liz Murphy College Advising As an independent college consultant and a graduate of the UC Berkeley College Admissions and Career Planning program, I have successfully guided high school students on their college admission journeys for over eight years. In addition, I provide pro bono services to low-income and first-generation students. I was a parent leader in public and private education for fifteen years worked in the public health field for over ten years and taught high school biology and chemistry in the Peace Corps in Kenya. I bring significant experience in communication, research, and project management to my personalized college consulting practice. I am particularly interested in helping students pursue higher education in STEM and assisting students in applying to the University of California system. I survived the college admission process with my own children, who graduated from Gonzaga University (2015) and UC Berkeley (2017). Every year I tour dozens of colleges and universities throughout the United States; attend professional conferences, college fairs, and workshops; and network with fellow professionals in the field. I keep up-to-date on changes and developments in the world of higher education in order to best inform and guide my students and families. Website [https://www.lizmurphycollegeadvising.com/] LinkedIn [https://www.linkedin.com/in/liz-murphy-2a637955/] Disclaimer: This podcast discussion is for informational purposes only and not for the purpose of providing medical,  legal, or financial advice. You should contact your doctor, attorney, or financial advisor to obtain advice with respect to any particular issue or problem. Visit: www.edgysolutions.com [http://www.edgysolutions.com/]

Tips and Strategies for Year-End Implementation

Shawnna interviews Edgewood Business Solutions accounting executives Linda Welk, Katie Petty, and Deepa Mackrani on their tips and strategies to implement into year-end planning. First up, Linda explains why your accounts receivable detail report is so important and why you should review it before the end of the year. Learn about best practices for paying vendors, updating inventory, and recording home office expenses. Since people are working out of their homes more than ever due to COVID, Katie reminds us that home expenses are often overlooked and explores some of your options. Whether you're an entrepreneur, small business owner, or aspiring to be one - Edgewood is here to help. Highlights: * If you are using the accounts payable as an accrual basis tax filer, ensure that invoices received from vendors are input using the date of the invoice. * Consider paying for bills due in January before year-end. * Always request a W9 from your vendors before paying them. When in doubt, collect a W9. * If your inventory software and accounting software are not connected, update your inventory monthly to ensure proper accounting. * Review your books for any outstanding checks or transactions that have not cleared and are over 30 days old. * Home office expenses. * Mileage reimbursement. * Compliance Issues. * Insurance Coverage. Disclaimer: This podcast discussion is for informational purposes only and not for the purpose of providing medical, legal, or financial advice. You should contact your doctor, attorney, or financial advisor to obtain advice with respect to any particular issue or problem. Visit: www.edgysolutions.com [http://www.edgysolutions.com/]

Protecting Your Company with Adequate Insurance - An Interview with Zack Leland and Lisa Fortenbaugh

In this episode, Shawnna interviews Zack Leland and Lisa Fortenbaugh. Zack is a Commercial Insurance Producer at PIASC Insurance Services based out of Commerce, CA. Lisa is the Founder and CEO of Platinum HR Consulting Group. First up, Zack explains the benefits behind employment practices liability insurance (EPLI). The panel explores insurance coverage for wrongful termination, sexual harassment, discrimination, and emotional distress.  Lisa and Zack also explain workers’ compensation, the importance of safety training, and why your HR consultant should be collaborating with your insurance brokers. Highlights: * EPLI policies can help protect the business in the event of wrongful termination, sexual harassment, discrimination, and emotional distress cases. * Employers need to be proactive in avoiding the risk of any legal actions with HR compliance and combining with the right insurance coverage * A discussion on at-will employment and wrongful termination. * Possible coverage exclusions on different EPLI policies. Wages and hours worked are the most common exclusion. * Who you are more likely to be sued by: your own employee or a customer or vendor. * Safety training and preventing injuries in an office environment. * How workers’ compensation is a no-fault system of insurance. About Zack Leland: Zack Leland was born and raised in Santa Cruz, CA.  After attending California Polytechnic State University, San Luis Obispo and majoring in Biochemistry, he relocated to Orange County, CA. He is licensed in property and casualty insurance with a sole focus on business insurance. He has held many different positions in the insurance industry including account manager, sales manager, wholesale insurance, and producer. His specialties include harder to place workers’ comp accounts, including construction, logistics, and temporary staffing agencies. His current position is Commercial Insurance Producer at PIASC Insurance Services which is based in Commerce, CA. LinkedIn [https://www.linkedin.com/in/zack-leland-8168361a6/] PIASC Insurance Services [https://www.piascins.com/] StaffingInsure [https://staffinginsure.com/] About Lisa Fortenbaugh, MS, SPHR: Lisa Fortenbaugh is the Founder and CEO of Platinum HR Consulting Group. Lisa possesses over twenty-five years of comprehensive national and international Human Resource experience. She holds a Master’s degree in Human Resource Management from Chapman University, a Bachelor’s degree in Psychology, and maintains the Senior Professional in Human Resources (SPHR) Certification from the Society for Human Resource Management. Lisa believes that the most important resource in a company is its “Human Resource”. After over two decades managing Human Resources for organizations of different sizes, Lisa knew there was a need for small businesses to have access to the same HR expertise that large corporations have. Lisa founded Platinum HR Consulting Group with one main goal, to offer customized HR solutions for small businesses. LinkedIn [https://www.linkedin.com/in/lisa-fortenbaugh/] Email: lisa@platinumhrcg.com About Platinum HR: Platinum HR is a strategic partner providing custom Human Resource business solutions to help clients attract, support, develop, and retain a competitive workforce and achieve their business objectives. They develop client-focused partnerships and innovative solutions. Each solution is different and may include items such as: an HR Assessment, Employee Handbook, monthly HR support, customized onsite training, review of the hiring process, performance management, compensation, etc. While each roadmap created is different, the end result is the same; a customized solution that increases productivity, profitability, employee engagement and legal compliance. These results create the competitive advantage that a company needs to compete in their respective market. Website [https://platinumhrcg.com/] Disclaimer: This podcast discussion is for informational purposes only and not for the purpose of providing medical,  legal, or financial advice. You should contact your doctor, attorney, or financial advisor to obtain advice with respect to any particular issue or problem. Visit: www.edgysolutions.com [http://www.edgysolutions.com/]