BizFilings Expert Insights: Recent Episodes

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Practical advice to help start, run and grow your business. Topics covered include strategy, incorporation, business licenses, compliance, and more.

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Expert Insights has a podcast series on helping small businesses understand how to comply with the Corporate Transparency Act (CTA) and its Beneficial Ownership Information (BOI) reporting requirements.

The State of New York has its own rules for reporting beneficial ownership information. So how much similarity is there between the CTA and the New York regulations and what additional rules do you need to comply with in the Empire State?

CT Corporation Director of Compliance and Government Relations David Spencer walks us through the nuances of the New York law. He also highlights guidance from the Financial Crimes Enforcement Network (FinCEN) on how dissolved businesses should approach the federal beneficial ownership requirements. And he examines FinCEN's advice about the use of tax identification numbers for disregarded entities.

For more information and resources:
https://www.wolterskluwer.com/en/solutions/bizfilings/bfi-beneficial-ownership-information

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Expert Insights has a podcast series on helping business leaders understand how to comply with the Corporate Transparency Act (CTA) and its Beneficial Ownership Information (BOI) reporting requirements.

The end of the year is a very busy time for business leaders. The last thing you need is a lot of additional stress trying to figure out how to comply with the CTA and collecting the relevant documentation just days before the deadline.

But what information do you need in order to file an accurate BOI report? Why is it crucial to submit it as soon as possible? What are the consequences for not filing accurate information on time? And where can you go for help? Today, BizFilings Manager of Customer Service Tim Jensen addresses these questions and many others.

For more information and resources:
https://www.wolterskluwer.com/en/solutions/bizfilings/bfi-beneficial-ownership-information

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Expert Insights has a podcast series on helping business leaders understand how to comply with the Corporate Transparency Act (CTA) and its Beneficial Ownership Information (BOI) reporting requirements.

The vast majority of LLC's will be required to submit a BOI report. But which ones might be exempt? What information do LLC's need to submit in order to comply with the CTA? And how soon do they need to submit it?

Entrepreneur, CPA, and small business expert Gene Marks joins us to answer these questions. He also reveals how many businesses still haven't filed their BOI reports, how many business owners aren't even aware of this requirement, how he is guiding his clients through the process, and why you really don't want to wait until the last minute to get this done.

For additional information and resources:
https://www.wolterskluwer.com/en/solutions/bizfilings/bfi-beneficial-ownership-information

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Expert Insights has a podcast series on helping business leaders understand how to comply with the Corporate Transparency Act (CTA) and its Beneficial Ownership Information (BOI) reporting requirements.

The Corporate Transparency Act affects tens of millions of business owners who are required to comply with it. But which businesses need to file BOI reports and which ones are exempt? What information must be submitted to comply with the CTA? And what type of ongoing compliance is required? BizFilings Senior Service Manager Tim Jensen has those answers and many more in our new podcast.

For additional information and resources:
https://www.wolterskluwer.com/en/solutions/bizfilings/bfi-beneficial-ownership-information

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Organizational charts have been part of the business world for a long time, but are they the best way to build teams and achieve the greatest productivity? Entrepreneur, author, and speaker Mike Michalowicz says it may be time to burn those charts and embrace role alignment - an approach which matches employee skills to specific tasks as opposed to a specific title. Michalowicz tells us how this approach works in businesses both large and very small, how it adapts with new hires, and the improvements he's seen in his own businesses and beyond. Finally, Mike talks about how he sees and implements improvements to the workplace long before others see the need.

For more information and resources : https://www.wolterskluwer.com/en/solutions/bizfilings

Access our full library of podcasts for small businesses
https://www.bizfilings.com/toolkit/guides/podcasts

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No matter what type of business you own, you will face many of the same challenges. How do I attract and retain customers? How do I find and keep excellent employees? How do I turn a profit? We'll discuss these and several other critical questions with small business expert, blogger, and author Barry Moltz.

For additional information and resources: https://www.wolterskluwer.com/en/solutions/bizfilings

Access our full library of podcasts for small businesses
https://www.bizfilings.com/toolkit/guides/podcasts

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Inflation easily remains the top challenge facing small businesses, according to a new survey of small business owners by the U.S. Chamber of Commerce and MetLife. The Small Business Index shows more than half of business owners are concerned about inflation. Other concerns include revenue, ongoing supply chain problems, and rising interest rates. U.S. Chamber of Commerce Vice President for Small Business Policy Tom Sullivan joins us to discuss the problems these issues are causing and the most effective strategies for dealing with them.

For additional information and resources: https://www.wolterskluwer.com/en/solutions/bizfilings

Access our full library of podcasts for small businesses
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Uncertainty was the only thing certain for business owners over the past few years. So what can you expect for 2023? Entrepreneur, author, and speaker Ramon Ray says the best way to grow in these economic times is to develop closer relationships with your existing customers and learn more ways you can serve them well. Ray also offers tips on attracting new customers, protecting your business from inflation, how to keep your prized employees happy and engaged, and whether 2023 is the right year to start a new business.

For additional information and resources:
https://www.wolterskluwer.com/en/solutions/bizfilings

Access our full library of podcasts for small businesses
https://www.bizfilings.com/toolkit/guides/podcasts

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Remote employees give business owners access to far more talent, but it's vital to make sure that you hire and manage those remote workers and teams properly. DIYMarketers.com Publisher Ivana Taylor walks us through the homework that business owners need to do to understand the positions they're trying to fill, how to communicate your expectations clearly to avoid frustration down the road, and what to do when serious problems arise.

For additional resources: https://www.wolterskluwer.com/en/solutions/bizfilings

Access our full library of podcasts for small businesses
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More businesses than ever are hiring remote employees. But before going down that road, make sure you understand and consider the liability issues that may arise. Big Ideas for Small Business Inc. President Barbara Weltman walks us through three major areas to keep in mind: personal injury, data security, and keeping track of when an employee is working. Weltman also discusses the tax complications that may arise, particularly when employees work in different states.

For additional information and resources, please visit: https://www.wolterskluwer.com/en/expert-insights/how-to-start-a-business-10-steps-to-starting-a-business

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DIYMarketers.com Publisher Ivana Taylor shares her "winflation" mindset that she encourages all business owners to have during this time of inflation. Instead of focusing solely on cutting costs and raising prices, Taylor urges us to listen for other ways our customers wish we could help them and come up with enticing incentives for them to do more business with us. Taylor also highlights the value of finding ways to collaborate with other businesses and following up with existing and prospective customers to meet their needs.

For additional information and resources: https://www.wolterskluwer.com/en/solutions/bizfilings

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After enduring a pandemic and the accompanying economic hardship for two years, many business owners are now scrambling to deal with rapidly rising inflation and the ongoing supply chain problems. So how can you adapt to these conditions that are beyond your control? Melinda Emerson. also known as the Small Biz Lady, offers strategies to cut costs, raise prices, and try to keep your customers patient and loyal.

Access our full library of podcasts for small businesses
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The pandemic appears to be easing, but business owners may soon need to make some big decisions. BizFilings Service Manager Mike Enright offers his insights on how to navigate where and how employees will work, how to attract and keep the right employees in a challenging labor environment, how to meet evolving customer expectations and much more.

For additional resources on this topic, please visit:

https://www.wolterskluwer.com/en/expert-insights/getting-your-small-business-back-to-normal-in-2022

https://www.wolterskluwer.com/en/expert-insights/small-business-outlook-what-small-business-owners-can-expect-in-2022

Access our full library of podcasts for small businesses
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The government will soon be imposing a new beneficial ownership reporting rule as part of the Corporate Transparency Act, which was passed by Congress last year. CT Corporation Publications Attorney Sandra Feldman explains which entities will need to comply with the new rule, what potential exemptions exist, and what information the government is going to want in these reports.

Access our full library of podcasts for small businesses
https://www.bizfilings.com/toolkit/guides/podcasts

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Small business expert Gene Marks offers business owners timely advice on how to handle inflation, supply challenges, and labor shortages in the new year. Marks also offers encouraging news on the affordability of AI tools that improve efficiency and will improve the bottom line. And he gives business owners a tip on how to get funds from the Small Business Administration at a good interest rate...but you need to act within the next couple of weeks.

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A record number of new businesses started in 2020 but many aspiring entrepreneurs are still reluctant to chase their dreams because of their fear of failure. CT Corporation Manager of Customer Service Tim Jensen joins us to explain how that fear is actually a good thing that can be leveraged to make your new business even better. He also offers advice on how to translate prior business failures into future success.

For additional resources on this subject, please visit:
https://www.wolterskluwer.com/en/expert-insights/bizfilings-small-business-survey-2021

Access our full library of podcasts for small businesses
https://www.bizfilings.com/toolkit/guides/podcasts

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Choosing the right entity is one of the most important decisions a business owner can make, and an entity that will protect you from having to pay corporate taxes on top of personal income taxes can be very attractive. It's known as an S Corporation. CT Corporation Manager of Customer Service Tim Jensen explains what it takes to be eligible to file as an S Corporation, how this entity differs from other entity types, and what the ongoing compliance requirements look like.

For additional information and resources:
https://www.wolterskluwer.com/en/solutions/bizfilings/incorporation-options

Access our full library of podcasts for small businesses
https://www.bizfilings.com/toolkit/guides/podcasts

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Could a holding company be the key to making sure your business survives tough stretches and unexpected interruptions like a pandemic? CT Corporation Publications Attorney Sandra Feldman explains what holding companies and operating companies are and walks us through the major benefits and possible drawbacks of choosing this kind of business structure.

For more information and resources, please visit:
https://www.wolterskluwer.com/en/expert-insights/using-holding-and-operating-companies-to-protect-business-assets

https://www.wolterskluwer.com/en/expert-insights/liens-can-secure-funding-and-protect-business-assets

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One of the first critical decisions for any aspiring business owner is determining the right business formation or incorporation for you. But why is it important? What are the different options for incorporation and what should be the most important factors in choosing one? We discuss all of this and the incorporation process with CT Corporation Customer Service Manager Tim Jensen.

Access our full library of podcasts for small businesses
https://www.bizfilings.com/toolkit/guides/podcasts

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A record number of new businesses started in 2020 but many aspiring entrepreneurs are still reluctant to chase their dreams because of their fear of failure. CT Corporation Manager of Customer Service Tim Jensen joins us to explain how that fear is actually a good thing that can be leveraged to make your new business even better. He also offers advice on how to translate prior business failures into future success.

For additional resources on this subject, please visit:
https://www.wolterskluwer.com/en/expert-insights/bizfilings-small-business-survey-2021

Access our full library of podcasts for small businesses
https://www.bizfilings.com/toolkit/guides/podcasts

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Choosing a name for your business is one of the most important decisions any business owner will make. You want it to be memorable and to explain exactly what you do. But naming a business also needs to follow the rules in your state. What do you do if some other business already has the name you want? What is the difference between a legal name and the name the public knows you by? And what words should you be careful not to include in your business name? We discuss all of those questions and much more with Tim Jensen, manager of customer service at CT Corporation.

For additional information and resources on naming your business, please visit::
https://www.wolterskluwer.com/en/expert-insights/assumed-names-dba-what-you-need-to-know

Access our full library of podcasts for small businesses
https://www.bizfilings.com/toolkit/guides/podcasts

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Over the past 18 months, Special Purpose Acquisition Companies, or SPAC's, have exploded in popularity for businesses and celebrity influencers. But what exactly is a SPAC? What advantages does it have compared to a more traditional initial public offering? What risks should you know about? And how could it impact your business? We get answers to these questions and more with CT Corporation Senior Director Amit Rajvanshy.

For additional resources on this topic:
https://www.bizfilings.com

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It is vital for business owners to protect themselves and their firms through a formal business entity. The limited liability company, or LLC, is an extremely popular choice, but why is that? CT Corporation Customer Service Manager Tim Jensen joins us to explain the many benefits of LLC's and the due diligence you need to perform before making your choice official. Jensen also walks us through the steps of setting up an LLC and discusses the ongoing responsibilities that come with it.

For additional resources on this topic, please visit:
https://www.wolterskluwer.com/en/solutions/bizfilings/incorporation-options

Access our full library of podcasts for small businesses
https://www.bizfilings.com/toolkit/guides/podcasts

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Some businesses are looking to acquire other firms weakened by the pandemic and others are looking to merge to stay afloat. But as these opportunities present themselves, what do business owners need to know before completing a deal? CT Corporation Publications Attorney Sandra Feldman shares five critical pieces of information you will need before signing any agreement.

Access our full library of podcasts for small businesses
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Some business owners get a very unwelcome surprise when they find out a UCC-1 filing was made against their company. When false, such filings make a business look like a bad bet for lenders and other financial providers. So how do these filings happen? What can be done to set the record straight? And how can you find out whether your business is impacted before the lenders do? We get answers from CT Corporation Publications Attorney Sandra Feldman.

For additional information on UCC-1 filings:
https://www.wolterskluwer.com/en/expert-insights/the-courts-are-clear-ucc-1s-must-be-authorized-to-be-effective

Access our full library of podcasts for small businesses
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If your business did not have employees working from home before the pandemic, there's a very good chance you quickly figured it out in March of 2020. Now that the business world is reopening, many business owners are planning to have employees continue working from home. But what do we need to know to remain compliant when it comes to business licensing and other obligations? CT Corporation Compliance Business Consultant Donia Wade tells us what we need to know to make these changes as smoothly as possible.

Access our full library of podcasts for small businesses
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With a pandemic easing and an economy fighting to recover, law firms are also experiencing a lot of changes. What are the biggest changes that firms are facing? Which parts of the world are seeing the most change? And what opportunities and challenges are law firms seeing right now? We get answers from Devlin Fisher, global sales support manager at CT Corporation.

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CT Corporation Compliance Business Consultant Donia Wade walks us through the key steps for acquiring and maintaining a business license. She also offers best practices for staying on top of license compliance issues and making the process for renewing or adding licenses as simple as possible.

For additional resources, please visit:

https://www.wolterskluwer.com/en/solutions/bizfilings/business-licenses

Access our full library of podcasts for small businesses
https://www.bizfilings.com/toolkit/guides/podcasts

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Whether retiring, selling a business, or having to close, knowing how to properly dissolve a business is critically important. CT Corporation Manager of Customer Service Tim Jensen walks us through the key steps of dissolution, the risks created by not going through the process properly, and why it's good to understand all of this before we actually need to do it.

Access our full library of podcasts for small businesses
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Natalie Mendell and Alejandro Martinez of the Manhattan Chamber of Commerce discuss their proactive approach to helping businesses in New York City after a year of uncertainty. Martell and Martinez discuss their program of going door-to-door to meet with business owners, learn their concerns, and point them towards resources that will address their concerns over financing, leasing, and more.

For more information on legal solutions for small businesses, please visit:
https://www.wolterskluwer.com/en/solutions/bizfilings

Access our full library of podcasts for small businesses
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CT Corporation Manager of Customer Service Tim Jensen explains the many benefits of incorporation, how to choose the right entity type for your business, and how to navigate the actual process of incorporation.

Access our full library of podcasts for small businesses
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For more and more law firms, growth and expansion often mean doing work in other countries. In this edition of Expert Insights, CT’s Global Sales Support Manager, Rob McHugh, discusses the opportunities and challenges of doing work internationally, and how law firms can structure their internal operations to best address growing global legal work.

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As businesses continue to look for global opportunities, the law firms that support them can face their own set of challenges. More and more client work contains an international component for which law firms must be prepared to handle. In this edition of Expert Insights, CT’s Global Sales Support Manager, Devlin Fisher, discusses how the global pandemic has affected business activity and the marketplace, what practice areas are seeing the biggest growth, tackling the global components to client requests, and common issues law firms run into.

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Millions of people were forced to work from home in 2020 and now some businesses plan to keep it that way. But what do business leaders need to know to stay compliant when it comes to teleworking employees? CT Corporation’s Compliance Business Consultant Donia Wade explains the compliance areas that you need to know about, when a business license is required for these situations, and what tools can make your compliance easier.

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When starting a new business, you have options on what type of entity to establish. Two common considerations are a sole proprietorship and a limited liability corporation. What are the advantages of each, what are the possible downsides, and how will this decision impact taxes for your business? We discuss all these questions and more with CT Corporation Publications Attorney Sandra Feldman.

Access our full library of podcasts for small businesses
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After much debate, the COVID relief bill is now law and it includes more than $284 billion of relief for small businesses through a third round of the Paycheck Protection Program. CT Corporation Publications Attorney Sandra Feldman joins us to explain what is different about this round of PPP loans, why most of the changes are good news for business owners, and how you can apply for relief.

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On January 1, a new law called the Corporate Transparency Act went into effect. It requires many businesses to file what's known as a beneficial ownership report. CT Corporation Publications attorney Sandra Feldman explains why the reports are needed, which businesses need to file them, and how soon that needs to be done.

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CT Corporation Publications Attorney Sandra Feldman joins us to explain why it is vital for every business to establish a formal entity, the reasons why a business owner would consider changing that entity, and how to go about implementing that change correctly.

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Small business expert Gene Marks looks forward to what 2021 has in store for small business owners. Marks explains the Paycheck Protection Program changes available in the latest COVID relief legislation, how businesses can weather more shutdowns, and what new opportunities are emerging from all the upheaval in our economy.

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We experienced a lot of sudden change in 2020, but hopefully we've also learned how to lead through times of change as well. Vested Group founder Joel Patterson reflects on the lessons learned from the past year and how to lead future change with clarity and empathy.

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BizFilings Service Manager Mike Enright tells us why scammers frequently target business owners, what the most common scams look like, and how best to protect yourself and your business.

Access our full library of podcasts for small businesses
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Big Ideas for Small Business, Inc. President Barbara Weltman shares timely advice on how best to prepare your business for tax season and how the pandemic and the CARES Act may impact your tax planning and other year-end decisions.

Access our full library of podcasts for small businesses
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If you are ready to make your side hustle a business, it is critical to choose a formal business entity to protect you from liability. Author, columnist, and business owner Chris Corosa explains why every business needs liability protection, how your income and tax status impact your choice of entity, and how he has personally navigated entity decisions throughout his career.

Access our full library of podcasts for small businesses
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Eliot Gajadhar, director of product development at 1-800Accountant, explains the payroll tax holiday currently available to business owners, the pros and cons of signing up for the holiday, and how employers can best decide whether this opportunity is right for them.

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After months of employees working from home, many business owners are seeing productivity as good or even better than it was before. But before you plan to make a telework a permanent policy, what do you need to know? Phyllis Reagin, leadership consultant and former Global Head of Diversity and Inclusion at Warner Brothers Entertainment, explains how to keep your personnel feeling connected and effective while not stressing them out as they juggle family responsibilities.

Access our full library of podcasts for small businesses
https://www.bizfilings.com/toolkit/guides/podcasts

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The pandemic created many challenges for business owners but it also brings new opportunities to provide products and services to customers in new ways. Jim Blasingame, host of the "Small Business Advocate Show," joins us to explain why new business niches are exploding right now, how to get your customers to tell you their changing needs, and how business to business relationships can be especially valuable.

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You want your new business to grow, but the desire to realize your goals and dreams can leave you susceptible to making critical mistakes. Shadow CEO Athan Slotkin joins us to discuss six different mistakes you'll want to avoid as a new CEO and how to navigate around them successfully.

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What is the best legal status for your business? Is a sole proprietorship right for you or would a statutory entity like an LLC or corporation be better? We discuss all the critical differences, including tax implications, with CT Corporation Publications Attorney Sandra Feldman.

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Selling customers a good value rather than just a great product or service is the key to long-term success and customer satisfaction. Prof. Oded Koenigsberg, co-author of "The Ends Game," explains how to maximize value, shares what metrics help to prove that value, and how to help existing and prospective clients see that value.

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Association of Corporate Growth President and CEO Tom Bohn joins us to explain how middle market companies are surviving and thriving in the pandemic. He also discusses some of the frustrations middle market businesses have faced in trying to find a government program where they can qualify for loans.

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Once you decide to establish a statutory business entity there are five critical questions you need to answer. CT Corporation Publications Attorney Sandra Feldman walks us through decisions like which entity is best for you, where to set it up, what to name your business and more. Feldman also explains the different considerations when answering each of these critical questions.

For more information on entity formations, visit the BizFilings site. https://www.bizfilings.com/toolkit/research-topics/incorporating-your-business

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After months of employees working from home, many business owners are seeing productivity as good or even better than it was before. But before you plan to make a telework a permanent policy, what do you need to know? Phyllis Reagin, leadership consultant and former Global Head of Diversity and Inclusion at Warner Brothers Entertainment, explains how to keep your personnel feeling connected and effective while not stressing them out as they juggle family responsibilities.

Access our full library of podcasts for small businesses
https://www.bizfilings.com/toolkit/guides/podcasts

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If you are ready to make your side hustle a business, it is critical to choose a formal business entity to protect you from liability. Author, columnist, and business owner Chris Corosa explains why every business needs liability protection, how your income and tax status impact your choice of entity, and how he has personally navigated entity decisions throughout his career.

Access our full library of podcasts for small businesses
https://www.bizfilings.com/toolkit/guides/podcasts

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At first, business owners planned to hang on a few weeks to ride out the COVID-19 pandemic. But those weeks have turned into many months with no obvious end in sight. What are the keys to surviving this prolonged challenge and what are the secrets of the businesses thriving right now? We discuss it all with Barbara Weltman, president of Big Ideas for Small Business, Inc.

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The COVID-19 pandemic is requiring changes in many industries, and that certainly includes the legal arena. Legal Mosaic CEO Mark Cohen describes which changes are already happening and which ones will be coming soon. Cohen also explains how business owners can determine whether they actually need to hire a lawyer and whether it makes sense for businesses to have their own legal department.

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All business owners need to choose a formal business entity, but licensed professionals have two additional options to consider. In this edition, BizFilings Service Manager Mike Enright explains professional corporations and professional limited liability companies, how they differ from more common entities, and what you need to know before choosing which one is right for you.

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Keeping your business open and thriving in the midst of a pandemic is a challenge, and the last thing you need is for your state to remove your status as a business in good standing. BizFilings Service Manager Mike Enright explains why keeping up with your compliance requirements is especially critical right now, what headaches come with no longer being a business in good standing, and which resources are available to keep you compliant.

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Like other businesses, licensed professionals are actively seeking new clients. One way to make your services stand out from your competitors is to offer specialized services like incorporation and licensing through a third-party partnership. CT Corporation/BizFilings Customer Service Manager Tim Jensen explains how the partnerships work and why they benefit the businesses and the clients.

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For the past several years, many people have been leaving their traditional office jobs and starting their own one-person business. What is responsible for this trend and will we see a massive increase in the wake of the COVID pandemic? Elaine Pofeldt, author of "The Million-Dollar, One-Person Business," joins us to explain how to make your one-person business a success and discuss mistakes you need to avoid.

Access our full library of podcasts for small businesses https://www.bizfilings.com/toolkit/guides/podcasts

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Many businesses are open again and millions of others are planning to reopen soon. But things will look very different than they did back in March. What steps do you need to take to protect customers and employees? How might your vendor relationships have to change? And how can businesses band together to make reopening as successful as possible for everyone? We get answers from Matt Wagner, vice president of revitalization programs at Main Street America.

Visit the BizFilings site for more information on COVID-19.
https://www.bizfilings.com/landing-pages/covid-19

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New businesses created by people 45-years-old and above have been a growing trend for more than two decades, and in the wake of the pandemic, even more people are wondering if now is the time to make their move. "Ageless Startup" author Rick Terrien explains why middle-age is a great time to launch your own business and walks us through the smart ways to do it.

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While you focus on reopening your business, the Federal Trade Commission reports that small business scammers are aggressively on the prowl. Rosario Mendez from the FTC's Bureau of Consumer Protection joins us to discuss the scope of the problem, the different methods that scammers are using to access your data and your money, and what you can do to stop them.

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The legal profession is known for being resistant to change but LawSites blogger and podcast host Robert Ambrogi says the ongoing pandemic has forced law firms and courts to adapt in ways that will change the legal system for the better. Ambrogi walks us through seven critical changes - from modernizing the courts to clients and lawyers no longer needing to meet in person to overhauling how law schools train the next generation of attorneys.

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Small business owners are facing unprecedented challenges right now, both in enduring shutdowns and preparing to reopen, but there are some best practices for making sure your business survives. In this conversation from March, Big Ideas for Small Business Inc. President Barbara Weltman walked us through some of the many loan programs available to business owners and points out that some of those loans don't even need to be paid back! She also offers examples of how businesses adapted to the new conditions and how this experience may help owners with long-term planning.

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Many businesses are open again and millions of others are planning to reopen soon. But things will look very different than they did back in March. What steps do you need to take to protect customers and employees? How might your vendor relationships have to change? And how can businesses band together to make reopening as successful as possible for everyone? We get answers from Matt Wagner, vice president of revitalization programs at Main Street America.

Visit the BizFilings site for more information on COVID-19.
https://www.bizfilings.com/landing-pages/covid-19

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Quintessence Group President Melinda Emerson explains how ramping up your online presence is now critical to your business surviving and possibly thriving. Emerson details how to proceed, whether you have no website or whether you need to improve your website and get serious about social media. She says there will be winners and losers after this recession and how we approach our online efforts can make all the difference.

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Small business expert Barry Moltz explains how businesses need to pivot for the next year or longer since many customers will be reluctant to do business in person until the coronavirus threat is behind us. Moltz tells us what changes to expect in customer behavior, how to adapt to them, and how your online engagement will be critical to convincing people that their safety is your highest priority.

Visit the BizFilings site for more information on COVID-19.
https://www.bizfilings.com/landing-pages/covid-19

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Small business owner and author Gene Marks explains the many benefits of the government's Paycheck Protection Program, what to be aware of before you apply for the money, and how to make the process work as smoothly as possible. He also details several other federal programs available to assist business owners. Finally, Marks offers advice on what to do when you open your doors again and outlines the financial lessons every business owner ought to learn from this crisis.

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As small business owners wait for the chance to reopen or fully return to normal operations, what can business owners be doing now to survive the shutdowns and be ready to go at full strength? BizFilings Service Manager Mike Enright walks us through seven key areas from caring for employees to assessing operations and financing to planning for the future.

For additional resources, please visit https://www.bizfilings.com/toolkit/research-topics/running-your-business/protect-small-business-or-startup-during-the-coronavirus

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Emergencies like COVID-19, a fire, or a tornado could force businesses to shut down for long stretches of time. But just because the doors are closed doesn't mean the compliance obligations stop. CT Corporation Publications Attorney Sandra Feldman explains how to respond if your LLC or corporation has to close for a while and details the responsibilities you still have under the law. She also provides critically important tips if your business needs to close permanently.

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Small business owners are facing unprecedented uncertainty right now but there are some best practices for making sure your business survives. Big Ideas for Small Business Inc. President Barbara Weltman walks us through some of the many loan programs available and points out that some of those loans don't even need to be paid back! She also offers examples of how businesses are already adapting to the new conditions and how business owners can utilize some of this time to focus on long-term planning.

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As millions of Americans suddenly find themselves working from home, what are the best ways for business owners to keep both productivity and morale high at an uncertain time? Matuson Consulting President Roberta Matuson explains how leaders can make their colleagues and employees feel valued from a distance, why flexibility is critical, and how this sudden shift to telework can look different between large and small businesses. Matuson also points out that how you treat your people now will have a big impact on how long you'll have them once things get back to normal.

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Once you decide to establish a statutory business entity there are five critical questions you need to answer. CT Corporation Publications Attorney Sandra Feldman walks us through decisions like which entity is best for you, where to set it up, what to name your business and more. Feldman also explains the different considerations when answering each of these critical questions.

For more information on entity formations, visit the BizFilings site. https://www.bizfilings.com/toolkit/research-topics/incorporating-your-business

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Change is always coming to your business, but the right leadership approach can embrace that change to build strong teams and foster continued success. Deke Copenhaver, author of "The Changemaker," walks us through the critical attributes of a business leader who embraces change and inspires those around them to give their very best.

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Roughly half of startups fail within the first five years, but why does that staggering statistic persist? In their new book, "The Titanic Effect," Indiana University Professors Kim and Todd Saxton explain it's because hidden debts and other issues lurking below the surface often combine to ruin businesses. They also explain how being on the lookout for these icebergs greatly improves your chances for success.

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CT Corporation Publications Attorney Sandra Feldman explains what business owners need to know before expanding operations to another state. Feldman walks us through the entity, tax, and licensing issues that must be addressed and also details the penalties for noncompliance.

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Printful CEO Davis Siksnans shares how his printing business quickly grew from a small operation to an international success. Siksnans explains how to gauge whether your side gig has the potential to be a success, how to know when it's time to go even bigger, and why aspiring business owners should never do work for free.

For resources to expand into other states, visit BizFilings:
https://www.bizfilings.com/managing-your-business/filing-services/foreign-qualification

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Accountability expert Sam Silverstein shares what accountability is and what it isn't and explains how to evaluate the commitment of your team members to your stated values. Silverstein also details how to hire people to build a thriving culture of accountability and why focusing on accountability first often leads to even greater profits.

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CT Corporation Publications Attorney Sandra Feldman explains the three most critical elements of a limited liability company, or LLC, and how those apply to a business. Feldman also lays out the consequences for failing to abide by the LLC and details why every business owner in an LLC needs a good operating agreement.

For more information on the pros and cons of forming LLCs, visit:
https://www.bizfilings.com/toolkit/research-topics/incorporating-your-business/creating-an-llc

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Small business expert Gene Marks explains why he believes this will be an "easy" year for businesses thanks to a strong economy. He also offers accounting tips to improve the cash flow for your business, highlights innovations that could be a big help to you, and discusses the biggest mistake small business owners keeps making.

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As business owners enter a new decade, it is critical to use all the marketing tools we have for our advantage. GrowBiz Media CEO and President Rieva Lesonsky shares her eight marketing resolutions for 2020. Lesonsky explains how to weave your marketing efforts together more effectively, how to use videos and personalized emails to your advantage, and even how to make micro-influencers work for you.

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Jennifer Krottinger, a business opportunity specialist at the Small Business Administration, offers valuable insights into how to position your small business to win government contracts. Krottinger walks us through the certification process to become eligible for government contracts, explains recent rule changes for certification, and reveals how much contracting work is set aside for small businesses. Finally, Krottinger offers helpful tips to stand out when bidding for federal contracts.

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Business expert and novelist Diana Kander discusses her new book, "The Curiosity Muscle," and examines the four questions business owners should constantly be asking themselves. Kander also draws on her expertise to offer helpful tips for launching new products - and which tactics to stay away from.

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It's not easy for business owners to trust other people with the day-to-day oversight of different parts of the business, but for the sake of the business and the business owner, it must be one of your goals. But what does successful scaling look like? Duct Tape Marketing founder John Jantsch shares the ingredients to building a business that can thrive without you.

For more information on the pros and cons of forming LLCs, visit:
https://www.bizfilings.com/toolkit/research-topics/incorporating-your-business/creating-an-llc

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Do you believe you need to cast the widest possible net for customers or that satisfied customers will naturally recommend your business to their friends? Duct Tape Marketing Founder John Jantsch joins us to explain why narrowing your focus on customers and how you target them is actually a much better strategy. He also shares how to proactively turn happy customers into active ambassadors for your business.

For more marketing resources, visit the BizFilings site.
https://www.bizfilings.com/toolkit/research-topics/marketing

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Administrative work and other cumbersome duties gobble up a lot of time and hamper the innovation and productivity of employees. That work still needs to be done, but "Simplify Work" author Jesse Newton reveals how to approach it differently to unleash the full potential of your business.

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Learn the potential liability concerns of remote workers as we visit with business and tax expert Barbara Weltman.

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Know the tax rules so you can make tax savvy decisions. We discuss the recent and upcoming changes with tax expert Barbara Weltman.

For more tax planning resources, visit the BizFilings site.
https://www.bizfilings.com/toolkit/research-topics/managing-your-taxes

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Small business expert Gene Marks explains why it's difficult for small businesses to rise to the top of internet searches and how Google is working to fix that. Marks also talks about the importance of customer reviews and why hiring outside help might be needed to improve your search engine optimization.

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Jennifer Krottinger, a business opportunity specialist at the Small Business Administration, offers valuable insights into how to position your small business to win government contracts. Krottinger walks us through the certification process to become eligible for government contracts, explains recent rule changes for certification, and reveals how much contracting work is set aside for small businesses. Finally, Krottinger offers helpful tips to stand out when bidding for federal contracts.

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There's been a lot of focus in Washington on rolling back regulations. But which regulations have been changed or scrapped? What impact are those decisions having on businesses? And which regulations still need to be addressed? Small Business and Entrepreneurship Council President Karen Kerrigan takes us through the most significant regulatory changes.

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One of the more important steps for an aspiring business owner is to establish the right business entity. But what is it? Why is it needed? And what are the various options for a business? CorpNet Founder and CEO Nellie Akalp offers her expert advice on securing the right entity along with tips on picking the a name for your business.

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BizFilings Service Operations Consultant Tim Jensen talks about the factors to consider when incorporating, and gives suggestions for when it’s appropriate to incorporate in a “business-friendly state” like Delaware or Nevada. Jensen tells us how to factor in tax and regulatory environments and also details how your legal structure affects where you should incorporate.

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Administrative work and other cumbersome duties gobble up a lot of time and hamper the innovation and productivity of employees. That work still needs to be done, but "Simplify Work" author Jesse Newton reveals how to approach it differently to unleash the full potential of your business.

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Business expert and novelist Diana Kander discusses her new book, "The Curiosity Muscle," and examines the four questions business owners should constantly be asking themselves. Kander also draws on her expertise to offer helpful tips for launching new products - and which tactics to stay away from.

Access our full library of podcasts for small businesses: https://www.bizfilings.com/toolkit/guides/podcasts

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Small business expert Barry Moltz says our growing economy is due for a recession but the business owners who are prepared for it can prosper. Moltz explains which factors suggest a rocky economy this year, why having enough cash on hand is critical for businesses, and what new technologies could boost productivity and efficiency this year.

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Small business expert Gene Marks discusses how business owners ought to approach the new year. Marks details how to benefit from changes in the tax laws and properly navigate a volatile stock market. He also shares advice on how business owners can best budget their time in the months ahead.

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"Return on Courage" author Ryan Berman shares his entrepreneurial journey and explains why he believes courage is an indispensable ingredient to business success. Berman tells us the three critical components to courage and he exposes why several common ideas about courage are very wrong and potentially damaging to your business.

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Amobee CEO Kim Perell shares her amazing story of going from dead broke to building a multi-million dollar company from scratch. Also the author of "The Execution Factor," Perell then explains why execution is the key to business success and the five components of execution that business owners need to embrace.

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As we get ready for the holiday shopping season, giant retailers and small businesses are competing for every dollar possible. But how can mom and pop operations ever compete with the big retailers? Bridget Weston Pollack of the SCORE Association offers four tips to give small business owners an edge on their competitors.

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Rich Graeter of Graeter's Ice Cream explains how he protects the traditions of the business that's been in his family for 148 years while also embracing the innovations needed to keep the company successful for years to come. Graeter discusses how he decides where to innovate and expand, how he deals with the compliance issues that accompany expansion, and what tips he has for family-owned businesses.

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"Fix Your Business Author" Melinda Emerson, also known as the Small Biz Lady, walks us through the year-end priorities business owners should be thinking about now. Emerson tells us why you should be meeting with your tax experts in October, evaluating personnel, and doing everything you can to maximize existing business while on the lookout for new clients.

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Major national brands like Dunkin Donuts, Papa John's, and Weight Watchers are making big changes in their logos and branding. But how much difference do imaging and branding make, especially for small businesses? Crowdspring Founder and CEO Ross Kimbarovsky explains why they matter for all businesses and how you can tackle them without breaking the bank.

For more marketing resources, visit the BizFilings site.
https://www.bizfilings.com/toolkit/research-topics/marketing

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GrowBiz Media CEO and Founder Rieva Lesonsky walks us through seven deadly marketing myths and explains why you do need to have a marketing campaign, which method of advertising is an absolute must, why trying to reach as many people as possible is not necessarily a good idea, and why having a secure, professional website is vital.

For more marketing resources, visit the BizFilings site.
https://www.bizfilings.com/toolkit/research-topics/marketing

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While business agility and adaptability are sometimes valued more than traditional business planning these days, don't be fooled. Business planning is just as important but it can also be done much more simply than many existing and aspiring business owners realize. Palo Alto Software founder and "Lean Business Planning" author Tim Berry explains why you need a business plan, what it needs to include, why it doesn't have to take a long time to put together, and how to use it to make your life easier.

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Very few people expect their marriage to end in divorce, but it does happen and the financial punch for business owners can be severe if they are not prepared. Matrimonial law attorney Jacqueline Newman explains how to protect yourself and your business from divorce before you ever tie the knot and what options remain if you're already married.

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CyberScout founder Adam Levin explains why cybersecurity requires constant vigilance from business owners and that running a smaller business doesn't make you any less of a target from hackers and thieves. Levin explains why internal communication is vital in warding off new threats and how business owners who are not tech savvy can stay on top of the issue.

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CyberScout Founder and Chairman Adam Levin explains why all business owners need to develop a "culture of privacy" to protect their finances and sensitive information from business identity theft. Levin walks us through ten different ways businesses can be compromised, specific steps to guard against hackers, and what to do if your business is compromised.

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HJR Global CEO Harrison Rogers has built several successful businesses and is now considered one of the top young entrepreneurs in America. Rogers walks us through his journey from struggling high school student to stunning business success. He also shares several painful lessons he has learned along the way and how applying them can benefit your business.

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"Take Your Human to Work" author Erica Keswin explains why investing in and honoring relationships is not just preferable but essential in today's business world. Keswin discusses the results of her "Spaghetti Project," proving that strong relationships at work lead to better performance. Noting that millennial and Gen Z employees expect relationships to be a priority in the workplace, Keswin details how to turn your company in that direction.

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Pinnacle Global Network CEO Allison Maslan explains why businesses owners should be looking to scale their operations, whether they're looking to be a global competitor or a regional success. She then walks us through the five phases of scaling, taking us from the formation of a company to a business structure that delegates many responsibilities to your most trusted subordinates.

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Dean Foster, founder of DFA Intercultural Global Solutions and author of "Bargaining Across Borders," explains how knowing traditions and customs in other parts of the world can be the beginning of successful working relationships and how not knowing those things can ruin your efforts before you even begin How can an introduction or an exchange of business cards be a plus or minus for you and how will people in other countries expect you to negotiate? Join us as Dean shares helpful tips from his 35 years of studying business culture around the world.

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Inbound marketing is a proven concept but what is an inbound organization and what does it look like? Dan Tyre, formerly of Hubspot and author of "Inbound Organization," explains why the inbound approach really needs to start within the culture of a company if you want to maximize that strategy with your customers. Tyre also discusses the key attributes of an inbound organization and how to determine the right personnel for making that change.

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Erin Archuleta, lead seller advocate at Square, joins us to share some eye-opening statistics about small business owners, including a stunning number who work second jobs or don't take a salary. She also offers helpful advice for business owners concerned about cash flow and and staying on top of all parts of the business.

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Beena Soiefer, nonprofit services and finance manager at Vcorp, joins us to discuss why filing for nonprofit status could be very beneficial for your business and how to apply for that designation.  Soiefer also walks us through the tax implications of such a change and what the compliance requirements look like. Join us for a concise tutorial on the nonprofit world.

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House Small Business Committee Chairman Rep. Steve Chabot says now is a great time to launch or grow your business.  He explains how the recent tax legislation and federal efforts to roll back regulations are putting American businesses on a much stronger footing both at home and abroad.  Chabot also admits what could have been done better in the the tax bill and details what his committee is doing to beef up cybersecurity and what services the government offers to help businesses guard against cyber attacks.

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Jeannette McClennan, president and founder of the McClennan Group and author of "Innovators Anonymous: Seven Steps to Get Your Product Off the Ground," walks us through the keys to bringing a new concept to market while avoiding the grief, disorganization, and wasted money that is so often part of the process.  McClennan explains the value in studying your future competitors and understanding your own strengths and weaknesses.  She also tells how embracing metrics and low-budget prototypes will be welcome strategies for your bottom line.

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Michelle Seger, global strategy and change management leader at SalesGlobe, explains what a change management plan is and why businesses need one.  Seger also offers advice on how to get the idea into writing and why communicating the plan with employees ahead of time is the most critical factor in the plan's success.

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Small business expert, speaker and columnist Gene Marks joins us to discuss the most important trends for small business owners to incorporate into their work in 2018.  Marks explains why getting a firm grasp on the health of your cash flow and your overall financials is critical for every business owner.  He also discusses how innovative new software can help your business stay ahead of the curve and how staying organized through lists is a great way to maximize efficiency and productivity.

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Tax and business attorney Barbara Weltman walks us through the recently signed tax reform law, why she thinks it is far too confusing, and the factors that will determine whether it helps or hurts your business.  Also a small business consultant, Weltman offers tips on how to stay ahead of your tax preparation responsibilities and explains how embracing technology makes the job a whole lot easier.

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Tom Szaky shares how TerraCycle got started, how it continues to grow, and future plans for the company. He uses a three-question model to determine how to take materials that were typically considered unrecyclable, collect and reuse the materials in over 20 countries. The company deals with two to four million pounds of garbage weekly, and future plans include collecting containers, cleaning and refilling them. They partner with organizations to create programs that recycle these materials, giving companies an edge over the competition.

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Egg Marketing President Susan Guillory discusses the most effective way to attract new customers through social media engagement and providing articles or other content that demonstrate your expertise to prospective clients.

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Start Small Think Big Founder Jenny DaSilva shares the story of her business and how it provides critical assistance for new small business owners in a variety of ways.  DaSilva also explains how patronizing local business benefits your entire community and why November's Small Business Saturday is the perfect time to make it a priority.

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Listen as Elvis Gooden, interim president and CEO, and chief financial officer of the NFL Alumni Association, talks about the support available to NFL retirees who become entrepreneurs and why so many NFL players start their own businesses after retirement.

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Kindness Hall Founder Allen Hecht explains how kindness or "mindfulness" towards others can not only have an impact on society but on how employers interact with employees and how businesses treat customers.  Hecht also cites a tremendous amount of business research to confirm how simple but purposeful kindness can make a big difference in the successof a business.

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Alexis Brachel, senior manager in business licenses, governance and risk compliance at CT Corporation, walks us through the steps of ensuring compliance is securing a construction business license.  She explains the compliance required when expanding a business, reorganizing at your existing site, and keeping up with changing rules.

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Tungsten Branding President Phillip Davis offers his expertise on how to name your new business in a way that conveys a clear message and leaves people wanting to know more about it.  Noting that a business name should be a "conversation starter versus a conversation stopper," Davis walks us through his decision to name his own business and offers several tips on what to avoid when choosing a name.  Finally, he explains how to determine if anyone else has the name you have in mind for your business and what steps to take once you've made your decision.

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Listen to Blair Anderson, President of the National Association of Non-Profits, discuss considerations for starting and managing a non-profit, plus common mistakes to avoid.  Anderson tells us what makes a non-profit different than a traditional business, how your approach to taxes will differ, and the keys to making your non-profit a success.

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Electronic filing and reporting make it easy for small businesses to operate in multiple states. If you’re looking to grow your business outside of the U.S., Canada is a great place to start. Traci Houck of CT Corporation talks about why Canada is a great place for companies to expand their operations without creating a large burden on current operations.

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BizFilings Service Operations Consultant Tim Jensen talks about the factors to consider when incorporating, and gives suggestions for when it’s appropriate to incorporate in a “business-friendly state” like Delaware or Nevada.  Jensen tells us how to factor in tax and regulatory environments and also details how your legal structure affects where you should incorporate.

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Small Business and Entrepreneur Council President and CEO Karen Kerrigan joins us to discuss how existing and aspiring small business owners should approach the regulations imposed on them by all levels of government.  Kerrigan explains how to factor the time and money needed for compliance and what resources will make your life easier.  She also details why she sees the federal regulatory environment getting more favorable to business owners and what challenges still remain.

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Jeff Williams, chief coach at Bizstarters, a company focusing on the explosive growth of baby boomers starting new businesses after age 50.  Williams explains why the number of new business owners who are 50 and older is soaring and why they tend to be more successful than their younger counterparts.  He also walks through some of the challenges unique to starting a business later in life and how to decide if this is a good idea for you.

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The good news is you can start an online business within hours.  The bad news is that anyone else can do it too, so how can you prepare for success?  Small Biz Lady Melinda Emerson explains why a good business plan is the best place to start and what priorities ought to be in that plan.  Emerson also points out where to find help for establishing your formal business entity and taking care of other important legal requirements.  She also offers advice on how to stand out from the crowd by providing an excellent customer experience on the very first day.

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Teresa Goody, founder and CEO of The Goody Group, speaks about why it is critical to establish a structure for your new business and how to make sure you're choosing the right one.  She also discusses what to look for in your local laws and regulations to help set your business on firm legal ground.

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Remodeling expert Shawn McCadden explains the critical steps in launching a contracting or construction business.  He explains the differences between the two types of businesses, the right entity to establish, and which insurance and liability policies are necessary.

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Pabir Nijja turned a struggling pizza restaurant in California into one of the most popular restaurants in town. Nijjar shares why he decided to pursue the business and why it became such a great success.  Nijjar walks us through many things any aspiring restauranteur need to know, from permits and licensing to building your reputation in the community and turning a profit.