Let's Talk Business

Everyone’s talking about Trump’s One Big Beautiful Bill, but do you know what’s really inside? More importantly, how could it affect YOUR taxes, YOUR business, and YOUR family’s future starting in 2025? In this episode of the Let’s Talk Business Podcast, Meny Hoffman sits down with Saul & Simeon Friedman of Saul Friedman & Company, one of the most trusted accounting firms for over 50 years. Together, they break down the most powerful tax changes, hidden credits, and financial strategies that could save you thousands or even millions if you know how to leverage them. What You’ll Discover in This Episode 👉 The real meaning of Trump’s “One Big Beautiful Bill” and why the name is genius. 👉 Bonus Depreciation (100%) — how businesses can write off major purchases in a single year. 👉 R&D Credits — cash-back incentives for innovation and development. 👉 Trump Accounts for Kids — how a $1,000 government account could grow into $90,000+. 👉 Scholarship Grant Credits — a dollar-for-dollar credit for private school tuition. 👉 Estate tax exemptions and strategies that could save families millions. Whether you’re a business owner, investor, or parent, this episode is a must-listen if you want to stay ahead of the biggest tax changes in decades. Watch & Connect 🎥 Listen to the Full Episode Here: [Your Full Episode Link] 🎯 Book a Clarity Session with Meny Hoffman: https://calendly.com/ptex/60-minutes-strategy-meeting-clone 📲 More Let's Talk Business Episodes: https://ptexgroup.com/podcast-main/ 📲 Instagram (@ltbhub): https://www.instagram.com/ltbhub/ 📲 LinkedIn (Let's Talk Business): https://www.linkedin.com/company/letstalkbusinessltb/ 📲 Facebook (The LTB Podcast): https://www.facebook.com/TheLTBpodcast 📲 WhatsApp Status Updates: https://wa.me/message/IQYNZFUYS443A1 📲 Join the LTB WhatsApp Group: https://chat.whatsapp.com/EKcdMc4qeZm7AL3VtcTY6T Episode Links (Saul Friedman & Company) 👤 Connect with Saul Friedman & Company: https://www.linkedin.com/company/saul-n-friedman-&-company 🏢 Learn More About Their Firm: https://snfco.com/ 📩 For Accounting & Business Inquiries: (718) 232-1111 📩 For Promotions & Inquiries (LTB Podcast): https://api.whatsapp.com/send?phone=13474518368&text=Hi Key Takeaways (Meny Hoffman’s Notes) 1. Plan Around Bonus Depreciation. Use the 100% write-off to reduce taxes strategically. 2. R&D Credits Are Underrated. Most businesses are missing free money they already qualify for. 3. Start Trump Accounts Early. A small annual investment can compound into massive savings. 4. Scholarship Credits = Free Tax Reduction. A direct credit, not just a deduction. 5. Your Books = Your Future. A strong set of financials is your ticket to growth and leverage. Episode Timestamps 00:00 – Hook: The hidden power of Trump’s One Big Beautiful Bill 01:21 – Let’s Talk Business Podcast Intro 01:34 – Meny Hoffman introduces Saul & Simeon Friedman 04:02 – Why the bill’s branding is a stroke of genius 06:33 – Key tax changes explained 14:16 – Bonus Depreciation: How it saves businesses big money 19:22 – R&D Credits: What most business owners miss 25:34 – Trump Accounts: Future-proof savings for kids 36:40 – Scholarship Grant Credits: Dollar-for-dollar tuition credit 49:27 – Meny Hoffman’s final takeaways

Ever feel that rush of panic before a big presentation? What if you could command any room with total confidence, not because you were "born with it," but because you learned the code? This episode is a masterclass in exactly that. Meet Bill Smartt. After a career as a classically trained actor, he became one of the most sought-after executive coaches, fixing the #1 thing that holds leaders back: poor communication. He's the secret weapon for executives at Citibank, Deloitte, Harvard Business School, and the United Nations. In this deep-dive conversation, Meny Hoffman sits down with Bill to uncover his playbook for turning nervous speakers into powerful communicators, building unshakeable presence, and using simple frameworks to make any message land with impact. You'll discover: 👉 The #1 mistake 99% of people make when they present (and how to fix it instantly). 👉 An "Actor's Trick" to turn speaking FEAR into genuine, unshakable confidence. 👉 A simple 3-part framework to structure any talk perfectly, so you're never at a loss for words. 👉 The uncomfortable exercise that is the fastest path to improving your executive presence. 👉 Why being a "natural" speaker is a MYTH, and how you can learn this skill starting today. If you're a founder trying to inspire your team, a leader tired of being misunderstood, or anyone who wants to speak with clarity and confidence, this conversation is essential listening. 👉 Subscribe for more deep-dive conversations with real builders and leaders. – 🎥 Watch & Connect: 🔗 Listen to the Full Episode Here: [Your Full Episode Link] 🎯 Book a Clarity Session with Meny Hoffman: https://calendly.com/ptex/60-minutes-strategy-meeting-clone 📲 More Let's Talk Business Episodes: https://ptexgroup.com/podcast-main/ 📲 Instagram (@ltbhub): https://www.instagram.com/ltbhub/ 📲 LinkedIn (Let's Talk Business): https://www.linkedin.com/company/letstalkbusinessltb/ 📲 Facebook (The LTB Podcast): https://www.facebook.com/TheLTBpodcast 📲 WhatsApp Status Updates: https://wa.me/message/IQYNZFUYS443A1 📲 Join the LTB WhatsApp Group: https://chat.whatsapp.com/EKcdMc4qeZm7AL3VtcTY6T – 🔗 Episode Links (Bill Smartt): 👤 Connect with Bill Smartt on LinkedIn: https://linkedin.com/in/billsmartt 🏢 Learn More About Bill's Coaching: https://www.billsmartt.com 🎁 Special Offer: Mention the podcast for a FREE Team Tune-Up session with Bill. 📩 For Promotions & Inquiries (LTB Podcast): https://api.whatsapp.com/send?phone=13474518368&text=Hi - 💡 Practical Pointers from this Episode (Meny Hoffman's Takeaways): 1. Communication is a Teachable Skill. It's not a personality trait. Skills like pausing, controlling your tone, and managing your energy can be practiced and mastered by anyone, not just "naturals." 2. Record Yourself. The Camera Doesn't Lie. This is the fastest path to self-awareness. You’ll instantly see your filler words, nervous gestures, and energy levels, which is the quickest way to begin improving. 3. Use the "Past, Present, Future" Framework. For instant clarity in any situation, structure your communication this way: provide the Past (context), explain the Present (the current situation), and outline the Future (the desired outcome or next steps). 4. Connect Before You Present. Don't just jump into your slides. Start by listening to your audience first. When people feel heard, your message lands with far greater impact. 5. To Manage Nerves, Manage Your Breath. Your breath is the best physical tool to counteract a fight-or-flight response. Before any stressful presentation, take a moment for deep, controlled breathing to ground yourself and lead with calm control. – Episode Timestamps: 00:00 - Teaser: Bill Smartt's key soundbites on communication 01:21 - "Let's Talk Business" Podcast Intro 01:34 - Host Meny Hoffman introduces the episode and guest, Bill Smartt 03:04 - Meny asks Bill about his journey into communication coaching 05:12 - Bill explains his "What, How,...

Ever wonder what it takes to leave a "dream job" in high finance managing billions to build something from scratch? What do you learn at the highest levels of investing that can be applied to solving messy, real-world problems? This episode is a masterclass in exactly that. Meet Daniel Shonrom. After a 13-year career at institutions like Michael Dell's family office and a $73B hedge fund, he walked away to fix one of the most broken parts of healthcare. He founded Exceptional, a fast-growing software company that is making waves by solving problems most founders would never even see. In this deep-dive conversation, Meny Hoffman sits down with Daniel to uncover his playbook for finding true product-market fit, building an elite team of "drivers," and applying the principles of high-stakes investing to the world of startups. You'll discover: 👉 The real, unvarnished difference between VC, Private Equity, and Hedge Funds. 👉 A critical warning about the hidden dangers of taking venture capital money. 👉 How to find genuine Product Market Fit (PMF) by listening for pain signals (The "Mom Test"). 👉 Daniel's "Drivers vs. Passengers" framework for building a high-performance team with zero managers. 👉 Actionable advice on when and how to raise capital for your startup without derailing your product. If you're a founder trying to solve a real problem, a leader building a team, or anyone curious about what it takes to bring structure to chaos, this conversation is essential listening. 👉 Subscribe for more deep-dive conversations with real builders and leaders. – 🎥 Watch & Connect: 🔗 Listen to the Full Episode Here: https://youtu.be/z-jK-coU1mo 🎯 Book a Clarity Session with Meny Hoffman: https://calendly.com/ptex/60-minutes-strategy-meeting-clone 📲 More Let's Talk Business Episodes: https://ptexgroup.com/podcast-main/ 📲 Instagram (@ltbhub): https://www.instagram.com/ltbhub/ 📲 LinkedIn (Let's Talk Business): https://www.linkedin.com/company/letstalkbusinessltb/ 📲 Facebook (The LTB Podcast): https://www.facebook.com/TheLTBpodcast 📲 WhatsApp Status Updates: https://wa.me/message/IQYNZFUYS443A1 📲 Join the LTB WhatsApp Group: https://chat.whatsapp.com/EKcdMc4qeZm7AL3VtcTY6T – 🔗 Episode Links (Daniel Shonrom): 👤 Connect with Daniel Shonrom on LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/daniel-schoenbrun 🏢 Exceptional (Daniel's Company): https://www.exponentialcare.ai/ 📘 Book That Inspired Daniel ("Amp It Up"): https://amzn.to/4lgRPfA 📘 Book That Inspired Daniel ("Atomic Habits"): https://amzn.to/45Gx2xP 📩 For Promotions & Inquiries (LTB Podcast): https://api.whatsapp.com/send?phone=13474518368&text=Hi - 💡 Practical Pointers from this Episode (Meny Hoffman's Takeaways): 1. Fix real problems, not trends. Daniel built Exceptional not to chase tech, but to solve a broken process in real people's lives. The market rewards clarity. 2. Ask "where's the friction?" Every manual task, especially in legacy industries like healthcare, is an opportunity for software. Start by asking what slows people down. 3. Complexity is the enemy of adoption. Daniel focused on making the product so simple and intuitive that everyone could use it. That's what makes it scalable. 4. Choose your early clients carefully. Instead of chasing everyone, Exceptional picked early adopters who wanted to innovate with them. That feedback loop made all the difference. 5. Your job as CEO is to create clarity. In a fast-growing company, confusion spreads quickly. Daniel's main job is to keep everyone aligned on what matters most. – ⏱️ Key Episode Moments (Timestamps): 1:34 – Welcome Daniel Shonrom, CEO of Exceptional 2:56 – Daniel's Journey: From a $73B Hedge Fund to Startup Founder 7:29 – The Real Difference: VC vs. Private Equity vs. Hedge Funds 10:10 – A Founder's Warning: The Hidden Dangers of Taking VC Money 13:11 – The Problem He's Solving: Fixing Healthcare's Broken & Messy Backend 16:12 – Transferable Skills: How...

Does your business feel like it's growing faster than you can control? Are you constantly putting out fires, frustrated that your team isn't on the same page, and feeling like the vision in your head is getting lost in translation? If you're running a business that's grown fast but now feels messy and chaotic, this episode is your intervention. Meet Tzvi Schwartz. He knows this struggle intimately. He started as an electrician and built his own contracting company with over 100 employees, experiencing all the chaos that comes with rapid growth. After selling his company, he discovered the Entrepreneurial Operating System (EOS) and became so adept at it that he helped the company he joined scale by an incredible 400%. In this masterclass on operational excellence, Meny Hoffman sits down with Tzvi to break down the systems and mindset shifts that transform business chaos into clarity, accountability, and scalable success. You'll discover: 👉 Why businesses often hit a "danger zone" around 8-10 employees and start to lose control. 👉 The "GWC" formula (Gets It, Wants It, Capacity) for getting the right people in the right seats. 👉 How a simple system can get your entire team rowing in the same direction (and why most leaders fail at this). 👉 The crucial difference between motivation (a short-term push) and inspiration (the real key to avoiding team burnout). 👉 The "Raft Analogy" – a powerful lesson on why the very things that made you successful can now be holding you back. If you're a leader tired of the chaos and ready to build a company that can thrive without you being in the middle of everything, this conversation provides a clear, actionable playbook. 👉 Subscribe for more no-nonsense advice to help you learn, grow, and lead. – 🎥 Watch & Connect: https://youtu.be/XWM5yWvuwqU?si=AzKu46VPXGxZWi0T 🎯 Book a Clarity Session with Meny Hoffman: https://calendly.com/ptex/60-minutes-strategy-meeting-clone 📲 More Let's Talk Business Episodes: https://ptexgroup.com/podcast-main/ 📲 Instagram (@ltbhub): https://www.instagram.com/ltbhub/ 📲 LinkedIn (Let's Talk Business): https://www.linkedin.com/company/letstalkbusinessltb/ 📲 Facebook (The LTB Podcast): https://www.facebook.com/TheLTBpodcast 📲 WhatsApp Status Updates: https://wa.me/message/IQYNZFUYS443A1 📲 Join the LTB WhatsApp Group: https://chat.whatsapp.com/EKcdMc4qeZm7AL3VtcTY6T – 🔗 Episode Links: 👤 Connect with Tzvi Schwartz on LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/tzvischwartz/ 🏢 Tzvi's Company Website: https://www.mythrivability.com 🌐 EOS Worldwide (Find an Implementer): https://www.eosworldwide.com 📘 Book That Inspired Tzvi ("Good to Great"): https://amzn.to/444OFoz 📩 For Promotions & Inquiries (LTB Podcast): https://api.whatsapp.com/send?phone=13474518368&text=Hi – 💡 Practical Pointers from this Episode (Meny Hoffman's Takeaways): 1. Growth without structure burns people out. Tzvi learned the hard way. You can grow fast, but without systems, it just creates chaos. You need structure if you want to scale and stay sane. 2. Most owners wait too long to fix things. The signs are always there: overwhelm, frustration, turnover. But many owners ignore them. Tzvi says face them early, and things won’t fall apart later. 3. The right team makes or breaks growth. It’s not just about hiring “A-players.” It’s about putting people in the right seats and holding them accountable to clear expectations. 4. EOS isn’t magic, it’s discipline. The system works, but only if you work it. Tzvi shared how weekly meetings, scorecards, and vision alignment completely changed their results. 5. You can actually enjoy your business again. If you’re constantly in the weeds, there’s a better way. Tzvi helps owners to step up, lead better, and get back to the parts they love. – ⏱️ Key Episode Moments (Timestamps): 1:50 – Meet Tzvi Schwartz: From Electrician to EOS Implementer 3:01 – Tzvi's Entrepreneurial Journey & Building a 100+ Employee...

Are you sure your business isn't leaving FREE MONEY on the table? What if there are overlooked tax breaks, incentives, and strategic advantages that could save you thousands, or even help fund your next big move? This episode uncovers exactly that. Meet Gary Marx, an economic development veteran with over 35 years of experience. He's seen it all, from working inside state government to now advising companies (just like yours!) on how to navigate the complex world of incentives and smart site selection with his firm, Blue Cap Economic Advisors. In this eye-opening episode of Let’s Talk Business, Meny Hoffman gets Gary to pull back the curtain on how businesses of all sizes can unlock significant financial benefits and make game-changing strategic decisions often hidden in plain sight. You'll discover: 👉 How to find and secure "hidden" state & local incentives (think tax credits, grants, and more!). 👉 The critical factors for smart site selection that go way beyond just the cost of real estate. 👉 Why states want to give money to certain businesses & what they're looking for. 👉 Costly mistakes businesses make that leave them missing out on massive savings & benefits. 👉 Insider tips for navigating government programs and making economic development work for you. If you're a business owner, entrepreneur, or leader looking to expand, relocate, cut operational costs, or simply maximize every available financial advantage, you cannot afford to miss this conversation. 👉 Subscribe for more insider knowledge to grow your business smarter. – 🎥 Watch & Connect: 🔗 Listen to the Full Episode Here: https://youtu.be/sK57BUHphcs 🎯 Book a Clarity Session with Meny Hoffman: https://calendly.com/ptex/60-minutes-strategy-meeting-clone 📲 More Let's Talk Business Episodes: https://ptexgroup.com/podcast-main/ 📲 Instagram (@ltbhub): https://www.instagram.com/ltbhub/ 📲 LinkedIn (Let's Talk Business): https://www.linkedin.com/company/let'stalkbusinessltb/ 📲 Facebook (The LTB Podcast): https://www.facebook.com/TheLTBpodcast 📲 WhatsApp Status Updates: https://wa.me/message/IQYNZFUYS443A1 📲 Join the LTB WhatsApp Group: https://chat.whatsapp.com/EKcdMc4qeZm7AL3VtcTY6T – 🔗 Episode Links (Gary Marx): 👤 Connect with Gary Marx on LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/garyrmarx/ 🏢 Blue Cap Economic Advisors (Gary's Company): http://www.bluecapeconomicadvisors.com 📘 A Book That Inspired Gary ("Think and Grow Rich"): https://amzn.to/43e25iN 📩 For Promotions & Inquiries (LTB Podcast): https://api.whatsapp.com/send?phone=13474518368&text=Hi – 💡 Practical Pointers from this Episode (Meny Hoffman's Takeaways): 1. You can negotiate way more than you think. Most people think “incentives” means tax breaks. But Gary explains how local cities will help with things like better lighting, signage, sidewalks, even speeding up your permit process, if they believe your business brings value to the area. 2. Hiring is the #1 deal breaker. Every serious business leader Gary works with asks one thing first: Can we find the right people here? If the labor isn’t there, nothing else matters. So if you’re considering a move, always start by looking at the local workforce. 3. Government help is real — you just need to ask the right way. States and cities actually want to help. But they’re not always shouting it from the rooftops. Gary shows how to find the right contacts, ask the right questions, and unlock the support that’s already sitting there. 4. American manufacturing is quietly coming back. Between tariffs and supply chain issues, more companies are moving parts of their business back to the U.S. And guess what? Local governments are ready to help — especially if you’re creating skilled jobs. 5. Small towns care more than big cities. In big cities, hiring 20 or 30 people doesn’t make headlines. But in smaller towns? That kind of growth matters — and they’ll often roll out the red carpet for you. That’s where Gary helps...

Feel like your hard work isn't delivering the breakthroughs you deserve? Ever wonder what truly separates a dedicated pro from a thriving CEO? This episode reveals the unvarnished truth. Meet Simcha Beller, a leader who climbed from cold calling for a job to CEO of renowned luxury design firm Yossi G Design. He didn't have success handed to him; he earned it. In this powerful Let’s Talk Business episode, Meny Hoffman dives deep with Simcha, unpacking the "brutal truths" and practical strategies behind his incredible journey to sustainable growth and authentic leadership. You'll discover: 👉 Simcha's path to CEO: initiative, sacrifice, and trust. 👉 The "brutal" mindset shifts essential for leveling up your leadership. 👉 Why your hard work might not be paying off (and what to change). 👉 Actionable ways to find clarity and focus in business chaos. 👉 Beyond 10-step plans: What actually drives sustainable success. If you're an aspiring leader feeling stuck, an entrepreneur facing growing pains, or an executive needing fresh perspective on what it really takes, this conversation is a goldmine. 👉 Subscribe for more no-nonsense advice to learn, grow, and lead. – 🎥 Watch & Connect: 🔗 Listen to the Full Episode Here: https://youtu.be/G0lj_dCgWNg 🎯 Book a Clarity Session with Meny Hoffman: https://calendly.com/ptex/60-minutes-strategy-meeting-clone 📲 More Let's Talk Business Episodes: https://ptexgroup.com/podcast-main/ 📲 Instagram (@ltbhub): https://www.instagram.com/ltbhub/ 📲 LinkedIn (Let's Talk Business): https://www.linkedin.com/company/let'stalkbusinessltb 📲 Facebook (The LTB Podcast): https://www.facebook.com/TheLTBpodcast 📲 WhatsApp Status Updates: https://wa.me/message/IQYNZFUYS443A1 📲 Join the LTB WhatsApp Group: https://chat.whatsapp.com/EKcdMc4qeZm7AL3VtcTY6T – 🔗 Episode Links (Simcha Beller): 👤 Connect with Simcha Beller: https://www.linkedin.com/in/simchabeller 🏢 Yossi G Design Website: https://yossig.com 📸 Yossi G Design on Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/yossigdesign/ 📘 Book that inspired Simcha ("Think and Grow Rich"): https://amzn.to/43e25iN 📩 For Promotions & Inquiries (LTB Podcast): https://api.whatsapp.com/send?phone=13474518368&text=Hi – 💡 Practical Pointers from this Episode (Meny Hoffman's Takeaways): 1. Don’t wait for the perfect job — create it. Simcha didn’t wait for someone to hire him. He showed up, added value, and proved himself into the role he wanted. 2. Before you fix something, make sure it’s actually broken. Not everything needs to be reworked. Simcha learned the hard way that changing what’s already working can do more harm than good. 3. CEO and COO are two different brains. A CEO lives in the future. A COO lives in the now. Mixing the two can slow both down; know which one you’re playing. 4. Branding isn’t how you look, it’s how well you connect. Your messaging and customer experience need to click with what people actually want. If it doesn’t feel like a fit, they won’t buy. 5. Clarity doesn’t come from thinking harder. It comes from asking the right questions—to yourself, your customers, and to your team. You don’t need all the answers, just better ones. – ⏱️ Key Episode Moments (Timestamps): 0:00 – Welcome & Episode Preview 1:14 – Meet Simcha Beller, CEO of Yossi G Design 5:25 – Simcha's Journey: Cold Calls, Sacrifice & Finding His Path 10:53 – The Path to Leadership: From Operations to COO, then CEO 23:58 – CEO vs COO: Understanding the "Brutal" Mindset Shift 32:57 – Navigating Critical Founder & CEO Dynamics Successfully 38:11 – Warning: Understand THIS Before Changing Your Business 42:40 – How to Find True Clarity Amidst Business Chaos 48:56 – Branding & Customer Insight: The Real Keys to Connection 54:58 – Beyond 10-Step Plans: Simcha's Core Advice for Success 56:52 – Rapid Fire Questions with Simcha Beller 58:27 – Meny's Key Takeaways & Final Thoughts

If you think success is about having it all figured out… this episode will prove you wrong—in the best way possible. From losing his job and being $95K in debt to leading growth at John Maxwell and Dave Ramsey’s companies, and now running his own firm — Trey Sheneman is a master of turning chaos into clarity. In this episode of Let’s Talk Business, Meny Hoffman sits down with Trey to unpack what really drives growth: from mindset, to systems, to what founders often get wrong when scaling from $3M to $30M. You’ll hear: 👉 How being broke and jobless led to a marketing career 👉 Why some brands get stuck at $5M—and how to break past it 👉 The real difference between working in vs. on your business 👉 A breakdown of Trey’s COMPASS Method that’s helped scale dozens of brands 👉 How to stay sharp as a leader—without losing touch with the work Whether you're bootstrapping a startup or scaling something fast, this is a must-watch. 👉 Subscribe for more deep-dive convos with real builders. – 🎥 Watch next: 🔗 Full Episode 🎯 Book a Clarity Session 📲 More Episodes 📲 Instagram 📲 LinkedIn 📲 Facebook 📲 WhatsApp Status 📲 WhatsApp Group – 🔗 Episode Links: 📘 Tray’s Life Changing Book 🎙 Trey’s Podcast – 10 Minute Masterclass 🏢 Herald (Trey’s Company) 👤 Trey’s LinkedIn 📩 For promotions & inquiries – 💡 Practical Pointers from this Episode: 1. Start even if it’s not perfect. Trey didn’t wait for the perfect plan—he just started. You learn more by doing than thinking. 2. Try before you commit. Be a generalist first. Once you find your edge, go deep—and it’ll pay off. 3. Get clarity before action. Ask what’s working, what’s not, and what’s missing. Don’t guess—diagnose. 4. Work on the business regularly. Don’t wait for a crisis. Step back quarterly (or weekly) to course-correct. 5. Stay close to your customers. Surveys, calls, chats—Trey listens nonstop. The best marketing comes straight from them. – ⏱️ Episode Highlights: 00:00 – Welcome to Let’s Talk Business 02:11 – From seminary to $95K in debt 05:00 – The real start: losing both jobs and betting on himself 09:07 – Lessons from building marketing agencies 13:30 – Inside leadership at John Maxwell & Dave Ramsey orgs 18:32 – Why culture and accountability go hand in hand 23:44 – What Trey’s doing now with Herald 27:16 – The full breakdown of the COMPASS Method 33:38 – Why messaging is usually the weak link 35:33 – Hearing your customers clearly (and often) 37:27 – How to actually work on your business every quarter 43:47 – What’s still on Trey’s bucket list

In this episode of “Let’s Talk Business,” Meny Hoffman sits down with Seth Farbman—serial entrepreneur, investor, and founder of multiple successful companies including Vintage Filings, Vstock Transfer, and Share Media—to talk about what it really takes to build, sell, and scale businesses. Seth shares his journey from sleeping on a couch while launching his first company, to executing multi-million dollar exits, to reinventing himself as a marketing strategist helping others share their story on LinkedIn. The conversation dives deep into the emotional side of entrepreneurship—what it feels like to step away from something you built, how to navigate identity after a major exit, and what founders often overlook when selling their companies. They also unpack practical lessons on CRM systems, client relationships, and how staying top-of-mind can be more valuable than chasing new leads. Seth explains why storytelling is the ultimate business skill, how great service starts with the person answering the phone, and what really moves the needle when building trust with clients. This episode is full of honest reflections and actionable insights for entrepreneurs across any industry—whether you’re just getting started or thinking about your next chapter. - This episode is brought to you by Ptex Group’s One-Off Clarity Sessions—a game-changer for business owners looking to get unstuck and move forward with confidence. Whether you need help refining your strategy, improving your branding, or overcoming a business challenge, Ptex Group’s expert-led 60-minute strategy sessions give you the clarity and actionable insights you need to make real progress. Book your session today at https://calendly.com/ptex/60-minutes-strategy-meeting-clone and take your business to the next level. - Book a Clarity Session with Meny Hoffman Panda Doc Seth’s Life Changing Book Vstock Transfer ShareMedia Seth’s LinkedIn For promotions & inquiries Episode Timestamps 00:00 – Welcome to Let’s Talk Business 01:27 – Meet Seth Farbman: builder, seller, and storyteller 03:02 – From lawyer to multi-exit entrepreneur 04:21 – The ups and downs after selling Vintage Filings 07:59 – Should you build a company to sell? 09:17 – Structuring your business for a successful exit 14:47 – Why non-competes matter more than you think 20:00 – What matters most: relationships, not just revenue 25:16 – The power of consistent messaging & storytelling 28:11 – How Share Media and LinkedIn marketing began 34:31 – AI’s role in content creation today 35:46 – Advice for entrepreneurs in today’s economy Practical Pointers

In this episode of "Let's Talk Business," Meny Hoffman welcomes Dr. Daren Martin, a business strategist and best-selling author, to explore the transformative power of company culture. They delve into the significance of culture, not just as a part of the game but as the game itself, and discuss how it can be assessed and improved within a company. This episode is brought to you by Ptex Group’s One-Off Clarity Sessions—a game-changer for business owners looking to get unstuck and move forward with confidence. Whether you need help refining your strategy, improving your branding, or overcoming a business challenge, Ptex Group’s expert-led 60-minute strategy sessions give you the clarity and actionable insights you need to make real progress. Book your session today at https://calendly.com/ptex/60-minutes-strategy-meeting-clone and take your business to the next level. Episode Links : Book a Clarity Session with Meny Hoffman https://www.darenmartin.com/bookstore https://www.youtube.com/@DarenMartinPhD Panda Doc Episode Timestamps 03:2208:0810:3814:5316:2620:2224:2427:3629:1835:2539:0340:2243:2246:35 Practical Pointers Spend time with employees in various roles to understand their day-to-day challenges and successes. Show genuine interest in their work and listen to their insights. Offer employees the autonomy and decision-making power akin to that of an owner. Recognize their potential to contribute to the company's success and trust them with more responsibility. Develop a clear, actionable mantra that reflects the values and goals of the company. This helps employees understand and align with the company's vision and mission. Implement a system of recognition to motivate employees. A simple thank you or a public acknowledgment of hard work can significantly boost morale. Understand that culture is more about how employees feel and how engaged they are, rather than just perks. Cultivate an atmosphere where employees look forward to coming to work and are proud of their contributions

In this episode of "Let's Talk Business," Meny Hoffman sits down with Jay Owen, a dynamic entrepreneur who founded his own marketing agency as a teenager. Together, they navigate Jay's entrepreneurial journey and share pivotal business insights. This episode is brought to you by Ptex Group’s One-Off Clarity Sessions—a game-changer for business owners looking to get unstuck and move forward with confidence. Whether you need help refining your strategy, improving your branding, or overcoming a business challenge, Ptex Group’s expert-led 60-minute strategy sessions give you the clarity and actionable insights you need to make real progress. Book your session today at https://calendly.com/ptex/60-minutes-strategy-meeting-clone and take your business to the next level. Links : http://aiwithjay.com http://linkedin.com/in/jayowen/ https://ptex.co/pandadoc Episode Timestamps : 05:06 -06:48 -11:37 -15:23 -17:44 -21:57 -24:17 -28:30 -29:16 -33:49 -36:15 - PRACTICAL POINTERS: Ensure that marketing efforts are not just expenses but are generating returns. This involves strategic planning and measuring outcomes effectively Even if your business is referral-based, ensure your online presence is strong. Customers often research online before engaging, so maintaining an up-to-date and positive digital footprint is essential Use AI tools like ChatGPT to save time and improve efficiency in tasks such as content creation, customer engagement, and internal processes. AI can also enhance decision-making by providing quick insights and solutions As AI evolves rapidly, continuously seek out new tools and ways that AI can benefit your business operations, keeping your workflows efficient and competitive Develop a clear marketing plan before diving into execution. Avoid starting with SEO or social media without a proper strategy, similar to building a house without a blueprint

In today's rerun episode of Let's Talk Business, we are revisiting an insightful conversation with Jeff Akerman, the founder of Rise Architecture. Hosted by Meny Hoffman, this episode takes us through Jeff's journey from starting his architectural firm in his basement to establishing a successful business that has expanded across 11 states. 05:1508:3311:3614:4218:5920:0223:3126:4730:3233:3338:2639:26 https://ptex.co/pandadoc https://www.risearchitecture.com/ Remember that in the creative space, you need to give your employees the leeway to think, because they want to feel that they are still being creative. If you stifle that creativity, and say, “You must do it my way,” you’re likely to lose a lot of people pretty quickly. One of the best ways to avoid the conflict between the business side of things - which demands creativity according to a specific timetable - and the creative side, is to suggest that your creatives give you their own timetable, rather than asking them to hew to one that the business people made. This increases accountability and personal responsibility, and also does wonders for the company culture. The most important element in choosing a partner is to make sure that you have the same vision. If every detail is perfect but you each see the end goal differently, then the partnership will fall apart, with potentially disastrous results. When you work together with a partner, you absolutely must hammer out the details in advance, and put them in writing - even if your partner is your best friend in the world - so that you both understand what’s expected of each of you. If you don’t, the business may fall apart - or on the contrary, it may work great, but you’re doing all the work even though you’re splitting the profits.

In this rerun episode of Let's Talk Business, we revisit a captivating conversation that dives deep into the essence of strategy in scaling a business successfully. Join your host, Meny Hoffman, as he sits down with Simon Severino, the author, CEO of Strategy Sprints, and host of the Strategy Sprints podcast. https://ptex.co/pandadoc http://www.strategysprints.com/ 00:0006:0008:2911:2713:3219:0721:4226:0228:1930:2133:5938:5942:10 The importance of adjusting pricing strategies and effectively communicating the value proposition is discussed. Simon and Meny talk about how businesses can consider increasing their prices by leveraging client testimonials and focusing on delivering and showcasing tangible value to their customers. Simon introduces the idea of return on luck, which reflects the impact of experimentation on business success. Running marketing and sales experiments regularly helps businesses seize opportunities akin to creating one’s luck through strategic actions and learning faster than competitors. Simon shares his insights and excitement about blockchain technology, describing it as transformational like the internet. The potential changes to business operations, finance, and global trade are profound, signaling the importance for business leaders to understand and integrate blockchain into their future strategies. Develop standard operating procedures (SOPs) for various roles to enable effective delegation and reduce reliance on any single individual. Regular inspection of key metrics is vital for ensuring alignment with business goals and for effective decision-making.

In today's episode of Let's Talk Business, host Meny Hoffman sits down with Yoel Judowitz to explore the fascinating journey from illustration to digital marketing success. Starting his career as a children's book illustrator, Yoel's story is one of adaptation and growth, showcasing how creative skills can evolve to meet changing market demands. Panda Doc storytribemedia.com Yoel's Links 04:0506:5312:0915:5018:4821:0226:3227:1330:1535:3936:33 Don't be afraid to fail; view setbacks as opportunities to learn and grow, much like Yoel did when he was initially fired. Learn to delegate tasks and build a team that can sustain your business independently, as illustrated by Yoel’s journey from YJ Studios to managing a team for illustration. Consider building a personal brand alongside your company brand to create a more personalized connection. However, ensure alignment with company values to avoid any discrepancies. Utilize the skills you are naturally good at, as a way to build your career initially, like Yoel did with illustration for children's books. Focus on platforms that provide the most benefit for your business, whether it's LinkedIn, Instagram, or WhatsApp status, similar to Yoel's observations about these mediums.

In today's episode of Let's Talk Business, we are thrilled to chatting with Doug Stephens, a visionary in the retail industry and founder of Retail Profit. Hosted by Meny Hoffman, this episode delves into Doug's extensive experience and his expert perspective on the evolution of branding, retail trends, and the essential elements of customer experience. Through thoughtful anecdotes and expert advice, this episode offers actionable strategies for business owners and leaders to leverage the principles of effective branding and customer experience design. Tune in to explore how maintaining a clear brand purpose and innovating on customer touchpoints can drive business growth and customer loyalty. Whether you're a seasoned retailer or an emerging entrepreneur, this episode is packed with insights to help you refine your strategy and strengthen your brand's impact. 00:0004:2109:0212:0413:4618:5121:3427:2529:5332:3737:2640:0744:0845:04 Select one primary area to dominate from the four positions mentioned: culture, entertainment, expertise, or design. Focus on excelling in one area rather than trying to be everything to everyone. Experience your own customer service channels firsthand, just as Doug suggested CEOs should do quarterly, to identify gaps in service delivery. If you're growing, create systems to maintain your brand purpose and values even as the organization expands, preventing the "watering down" effect that often happens with scale Create clear guidelines about what your brand promises and ensure all business decisions (from sourcing to pricing) align with these commitments. Review how your stated purpose is actually showing up across all aspects of your business - from products to customer service to employee culture. Look for gaps between what you claim and what you deliver.

In today's rerun episode of Let's Talk Business, we're diving back into a compelling discussion on the power of authenticity and purpose in driving business success. Join your host, Meny Hoffman, as he reconnects with Berel Solomon, a dynamic entrepreneur and the founder of Wealthy Commercials and Wealthy Executive Coaching. Throughout the conversation, Berel provides insights on building strong teams, effective delegation, and the impact of genuine, purpose-driven branding. His candid anecdotes and practical advice offer listeners a roadmap to integrating personal values with professional goals for sustained business success. Tune in to this episode for an enriching conversation that marries the heart of entrepreneurship with actionable business strategies. Whether you’re facing challenges in your family business, seeking to explore new ventures, or looking to inspire your team, this discussion with Berel Solomon promises invaluable takeaways. 05:2109:0109:5513:0817:4019:2123:3326:1829:1935:1138:11 https://www.linkedin.com/in/berel-solomon/ https://www.wealthyco.com/main http://berelsolomon.com/

In today's rerun episode of Let's Talk Business, we're thrilled to revisit a highly engaging conversation on the critical role of company culture, leadership, and conflict resolution in scaling a business. Join your host, Meny Hoffman, as he speaks with Dr. David Kaplowitz, a former top chiropractor who transitioned into a respected business coach specializing in leadership development and organizational culture. Don't miss this episode filled with valuable strategies and real-world examples of effective business leadership. 00:0004:3408:2112:0612:5618:0920:1725:2326:3131:3133:3337:2941:4743:0847:23 https://ptex.co/pandadoc https://www.rockspringcoaching.com/ https://www.linkedin.com/in/davidkaplowitz/

In today's rerun episode of Let's Talk Business, we're excited to revisit a foundational conversation with Adam Lean, a seasoned accountant, business owner, and founder of the CFO Project. Hosted by Meny Hoffman, this episode focuses on the crucial importance of understanding and managing business finances, especially for entrepreneurs driven by passion rather than numbers. 00:0006:1207:3713:3115:1619:0321:4927:1728:33 Implement scorecards to track weekly performance, helping you make informed decisions in real-time rather than waiting for quarterly or annual reports. Understand that accountants focus on historical data and compliance, while CFOs offer strategic planning for future growth and profitability. If hiring a full-time CFO is too costly, consider virtual CFO services to get strategic financial advice at a fraction of the cost. Evaluate all expenses to ensure they're contributing to making money. Avoid cutting costs randomly, as this could harm business operations. Instead of relying solely on industry standards, benchmark your performance against your past results to gauge progress and improvement accurately. https://ptex.co/pandadoc https://thecfoproject.com/ https://www.linkedin.com/in/adamlean/

Today, we're thrilled to have Laibel Schwartz—a dynamic and multifaceted entrepreneur—joining us. Laibel's journey is nothing short of inspirational. From starting as a wedding photographer to evolving into a pioneer in video content creation, Laibel has navigated the ever-changing landscape of business with unyielding authenticity and creativity. In this episode, we're delving into Laibel's extensive experience, gleaning insights from his mastery in storytelling, his emphasis on human connectivity, and his drive to create sustainable business models. https://ptex.co/pandadoc http://www.laibel.com/ https://www.linkedin.com/in/laibelschwartz/ 00:00:0000:03:3700:06:1700:11:1400:15:1300:16:3500:20:4000:25:0800:27:4700:32:2200:35:4500:37:0900:42:1400:43:0100:46:2300:52:1300:53:09Let's Talk Business Laibel Schwartz emphasizes the balance between technical skills and emotional connection in his photography business. He maintains humility in his personal life while being outgoing professionally, which helps him connect deeply with clients and offer a personalized experience. This theme highlights the need for authenticity alongside professional demands in client interactions. Laibel Schwartz highlights the necessity of genuine business representation to prevent customer disappointment. He advocates for traditional photography over Photoshop to preserve authenticity in headshots. This belief centers on the idea that authenticity builds trust and connection with clients, fostering long-term relationships instead of short-term misrepresentations. Laibel Schwartz emphasizes the impact of gratitude and personal stories on workplace dynamics, especially in healthcare projects. His approach highlights the importance of storytelling and emotional engagement to strengthen connections among employees and clients, enhancing both the work environment and relationships. Schwartz and Hoffman highlight how storytelling enhances real estate projects by fostering emotional connections rather than mere transactions. Schwartz mentions a project at Pure Village that reflects developers' personal dreams. They argue that authentic storytelling in marketing deeply resonates with potential clients, making projects more attractive. Meny Hoffman and Laibel Schwartz highlight society’s focus on weaknesses over strengths and recommend surrounding oneself with those who have complementary strengths. Laibel also notes that valuing others’ skills and giving compliments can enhance positivity, emphasizing the importance of recognizing individual strengths.

In today's episode of Let's Talk Business, we are excited to present a compelling conversation with Shulem Berkowitz, an esteemed leadership coach and business strategist. Hosted by Meny Hoffman, this episode dives deep into the intricate journey of transforming from a skilled craftsman to an effective leader. Shulem recounts his own transition from excelling in writing, graphic design, and printing to embracing his role as a leadership coach. His journey underscores the challenges and rewards of moving beyond personal accomplishments to empowering others. Highlighting the fundamental distinctions between consultants, coaches, and therapists, Shulem and Meny explore how each role uniquely contributes to business success. Listeners are taken through practical strategies for overcoming bottlenecks, such as temporarily stepping away from daily operations and identifying delegable tasks. Shulem emphasizes the importance of focusing on the 20% of crucial tasks that leaders must handle themselves and trusting the team with the rest. This episode also sheds light on self-awareness and growth, encouraging leaders to recognize their unique strengths and leverage them effectively. The discussion extends to company culture, where Shulem highlights the necessity of clear communication and value alignment. Drawing parallels between organizational success and the leader’s personal development, he illustrates how achieving business goals is intertwined with personal growth and overcoming internal barriers. Whether you're an emerging leader or a seasoned entrepreneur, this episode provides a wealth of knowledge to help you transcend challenges and achieve sustainable growth. 00:06:2000:08:3400:11:0400:14:2800:17:4000:21:3000:25:2000:28:0000:31:1200:34:4400:38:3100:42:3300:44:3300:48:33 Pratical Pointers Shulem's journey illustrates the importance of transitioning from a hands-on entrepreneur to an empowering leader. By focusing on enabling team members and embracing leadership roles, individuals can foster business growth and personal development. Recognizing the unique contributions of consultants, coaches, and therapists can help individuals and organizations leverage the right expertise at the right time. This understanding is crucial for overcoming obstacles and achieving organizational goals. Leadership effectiveness is closely tied to self-awareness and continuous personal development. Shulem emphasizes the significance of understanding one’s strengths and delegating tasks to create space for strategic leadership. Shulem highlights the necessity of aligning company culture with shared values and clear communication. Leaders should articulate their goals and foster a supportive culture to ensure that team members act in ways that reflect the company’s ethos. Shulem’s experience underscores the importance of seeking external support and being open to help. Understanding that asking for assistance is a strength rather than a weakness can lead to greater success and continuous growth, both personally and professionally. PandaDoc Rock Leadership Solutions Sholem's Linkedin

In today's episode of Let's Talk Business, we're thrilled to revisit an enlightening discussion on the intricate balance between personal charisma and business branding. Join your host, Meny Hoffman, as he dives deep with Bentzi Elkouby, an accomplished entrepreneur who transformed a friend's coaching business into a flourishing enterprise without any prior business experience. 00:06:1700:09:4900:12:5000:13:3500:19:4200:20:3400:23:3900:27:2200:30:2300:34:1500:39:4700:41:4600:44:4100:47:46 Pratical Pointers : Bentzi emphasizes the importance of proving business concepts and ensuring financial stability before expanding. His story serves as a reminder that strategic planning and cautious financial management are crucial, particularly in people-oriented businesses, to achieve sustainable growth. The discussion highlights the challenges of managing dual identities as a business owner and public figure. Bentzi shares strategies for maintaining clear boundaries between personal charisma and professional expertise, illustrating how separate mission statements for personal and business brands can enhance both interactions. Bentzi’s success story illustrates the value of building and maintaining a strong professional network. Engaging with peers and mentors provides diverse perspectives and opportunities, which can be pivotal for personal growth and business success. Bentzi emphasizes that a customer-centric approach not only builds loyalty but also drives innovation by encouraging feedback and iteration. Transitioning from an ESL teacher to a successful entrepreneur, Bentzi highlights how constantly acquiring new skills and adapting to changing business landscapes can drive growth and innovation.