Michael Lodge - Wealth, Business & Taxes: Recent Episodes
Michael Lodge
If you like my podcast please support the Michael Lodge Show by buying us a cup of coffee. Your support is greatly appreciated: https://www.buymeacoffee.com/MichaelLodge
Michael Lodge has been in business since 1984. Providing business consultations, formations, and mediation services. He has written his first book - Ethically Thinking, It's Not That Hard which is on Amazon. The WBT stands for Wealth, Business and Taxes and is the focus of the WBT podcast.
Merry Christmas my friends. Thank you for joining me on Christmas Eve, I trully love spending this time with you. Let's get to "Twas the night before Christmas".
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Thanksgiving is over. Let's make 2022 a full year of being thankful. We have gone through so much and we may be going through a lot more. To make it through the up an down times we have got to remember what we are thankful for every day of 2022. Those memories will create a path of greatness and the ability to help others by what we have lived. The good and the bad. Remember about the times you have traveled, spent Christmas in a special place, met new people that touched your life in some way. Let' live 2022 as a thankful year and let's remember our special experiences of Christmas in Paris.
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Today's episode is about thanksgiving and how important it is in our lives that then leads us to the government created inflation that is now leading to a recession. You and I can manage our household budgets better then Government. We are in control of our homes and we have to know that Government is the problem for this nation. Change will come with a nation motivated to take back their nation from politicians. But right now let's be thankful and focus on that with our family and friends. This is Thanksgiving.
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Here is the deal, lowering the prices on your products and services does not boost business! In fact, it may put you out of business. The truth is, real business success comes from reliable, repeat customers along with strong, profit-making pricing. Don't surrender by lowering your prices, instead - focus on the quality, value of what you offer your clients. This podcast covers thinking about your fees and the qualify of your services.
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We are getting so close to our Thanksgiving holiday here in the United States. We are worn out by politics and dirty rotten politicians. This Thanksgiving, let's forget about the politics and focus on our family and friends. We have missed out on really good gossiping because we have been separated by government. This Thanksgiving no politics will be talked about at my thanksgiving time with family and friends. Put up your trees, get the turkey in the oven, get some deviled eggs and start enjoying this one American holiday that comes from the heart of giving.
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We are in the first part of this podcast series on making life decisions, today it is about engagement and marriage decisions. We are asking the questions prior to marriage that need to be asked. It's better to ask the questions before marriage and work through the issues prior to saying, "I Do". We have decisions we have to make as we start our lives together and they are important ones where you need to be on the same page. I do a lot of Pre-Marital Mediation and couples try and work through the issues prior to marriage. They want their marriage to work. Let's go through the pre-marriage question asking process in this podcast.
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So many times I have asked my friends and clients if they have created a will, trust and healthcare directive. Most of the time the answer is no. Over the weekend I watched several video's on social media of family members leaning over their family as they were taking their last breaths. I am sure you have seen these videos. Having gone through this myself with my Mom, she had given me a healthcare directive telling me what should happen if where was no longer responsive, no longer had any medical options to help her. I followed her directive because that is what she wanted, and letting go was easier because I was following her wishes. Why make death difficult for everyone by not knowing what your wishes are.
This week of podcasts are going to be dedicated to the decision making process of life, from marriage to death. I promise you I will not be morbid, but will approach the subject(s) nicely. Join me this week as we talk about the decision process of life.
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We are almost to the end of 2021 and if you own a business you need to sit down and begin planning for 2022. Planning is key to running a good business. Get your journal out and start planning. If you need help, email me at info@lodge-co.com You have two more months to do your planning an talking with your accountant on your tax issues for 2021. Be proactive an do what is good for your company - plan!
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Hello everyone on the beautiful Sunday morning. I love In-N-Out hamburgers. If you turn the drinking cup over you will find the word - John 3:16 If you don't know what that says, it is a bible verse that gives us all a promise - For God so loved the world that he gave his only begotten Son, that whosoever believeth in him should not perish, but have everlasting life. It is the gospel in a nutshell. Now we are going through tough economic times, inflation is out of control. But we have a God that loves you and me. Don't forget it. Believe it. Live it.
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I made it. After two weeks of packing, loading it into a moving truck, driving everything to Greenville SC, I am exhausted. When you are as old as I am, the lifting of boxes and bending in all types of directions, the old body says - slow down. However, I am not about 90% unpacked and still looking at boxes in my garage. I wish you all could see the view from my office, beautiful trees with the sun shinning though. Life is good in South Carolina.
Today our podcast is about taking care of our personal finances and budget during this inflation that has now turned into a recession. You and I are going to work on this so we can survive. If you are married you are going to do it together, that is my order. Yes, I am going to be bossy on this subject because it is so very important. I want you to go to my website at www.lodge-co.com and download my free excel budget for you to use. No strings attached. Click on the tab that says "60 Minute Business Advice". You will find it easy to use and you can make adjustments where needed.
If you like my content, please support me by going to http://www.buymeacoffee.com/michaellodge If you have any questions on business, mediation, finance, please send me a text to mlodge@lodge-co.com
This is my last episode that I will do in Florida. This Friday the moving van pulls in and loads me up to head to Greenville, South Carolina. Florida is becoming a California, real estate inflation, rental prices are soring, and crime is getting worse. I moved from California to escape what was going on in California to have it moved into Florida. However, I am looking forward to being in South Carolina. I will do my first podcast from Greenville a week from now. I look forward to the move. However, my back and lags are worn out, I have done all the packing myself, and I really do feel like an old man. Well, I am old. Talk with you soon from South Carolina.
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The point of modern propaganda isn't only to misinform or push an agenda. It is to exhaust your critical thinking, to annihilate truth. - Gary Kasparov
Turn off the news, think critically and find the truth. Stop jumping to conclusions because the propaganda fits your political agenda. Stop being fools! We have got to do better.
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We are all experiencing a problem with shortage of supplies or taking time to get to us. Our supply chain has slowed way down (per Gallup) and created consumer prices to go up. Six in 10 people are unable in the past two months to get a product we have ordered. Similar percentage of people have experienced significant delays in getting these products. Altogether, 71% of Americans have experienced at least one of the two of these problems. If you download the app called Marine-Traffic and you can see all of the ships sitting there waiting to go into port and be unloaded. it is taking up to 4 to 6 weeks to unload these ships. Why? I can't find the real answer as to why it is taking so long. Christmas supplies are sitting off shore waiting to be unloaded which means Christmas present may be gift cards because there is no supply of consumer goods for Christmas. All of us have got to become good stewards of our money and think more creatively. This issue is driving up prices and creating inflation that affects all of us. So expect me to hound you weekly on being good stewards.
Full Gallup report: https://news.gallup.com/poll/353312/consumers-felt-supply-chain-problems.aspx
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Everyon these days are mad as hell about something. Covid, taxes, unemployment, immigration, politics, family issues and the list goes on. On social media people have just become mean as snakes. They say things that they couldn't even say to their mother, but now feel they have the right to offend people and call them names. Conflict is established on social media and it has grown, and we are all guilty about it. Everyone s in attack mode. We have to learn that words create conflict and then escalate into threats of violence. We need to know how to deal with conflict, in our work, our travel, in our families. There are free classes on the internet that train you on how to deal with conflict. There are mediators available to you for advice on dealing with conflict. Use these sources to resolve conflicts. If you need help in knowing how to deal with conflict, contact me at mediator@lodge-co.com
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I am seeing more and more postings on social media about individuals feeling lonely. I have seen the words, "I am so lonely that I don't know how to bare it." It is good they are stating it so we can reach out to them. We need to start listening to individuals who are lonely, isolated, needing to talk. This isolation is doing greater damage to our overall health condition. It is weakening our health condition. There is a study done out of the UK that published a report that said, "Loneliness - much like hunger or thirst - is a signal that we're lacking something. Prolonged social isolation can even contribute to heart disease, stroke or premature death." These government that have locked down individuals have done a greater damage to humans by isolating them and creating greater healthcare conditions. This has got to stop because now we have got to learn how to communicate again and listen to those that are lonely. We have to listen and reach out. Isolation and loneliness has to be addressed by our corporations and their employees, healthcare workers, and in our churches. Especially with our young people who feel isolated from their friends. We are social beings and we can't be isolated. Governments have done too much damage to our nation through isolation and loneliness. You and I have got to do better. Tell me what you think.
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I am doing a short podcast today because I know there are people out there that feel broken, discouraged, and it is my responsibility to tell you, you're not broken. Remember, broken pots spread more water. Something will grow from what you have done. All of go through tough times, but we have to keep going. I believe in you. Keep going.
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I have been talking and preaching ethics for the last three years. The more I talk with people I am finding that churches have been corrupted by politics, even worse, political agenda's. Politics corrupts. And when you have individuals inside your organizations teaching how bad other people are, you will never act ethically. Ethics is so vital when we conduct our lives, our churches and our businesses. Politics corrupts and creates division, conflicts and disputes, and that is not how we are to live. Focus on what you do as a church - you serve. You have forgotten that because politics has destroyed the belief in serving or service. As a business, focus on what you do, how you build things, how you build people up within your companies, on your communities and how you can help them. If you have politics you loose sight of what you are ethically suppose to do for your stockholders, employees and consumers. Ethics should be the goal of our lives on a daily basis, how we treat and respect others that don't believe as we do. How we work together to make our communities better. And the list of ethical cooperation continues if we focus on them and do not let politics corrupt our mission of service.
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Forget the News. Forget politics or politicians. Forget Covid and the Covid politics. Get up and do something that will make a difference. Feed your mind with good stuff, do stuff that impacts others lives in a positive way. We have become so bogged down on the current crisis and the politics that never changes. It doesn't change because people have lost interest in their America. By the way you can do something, vote better. We have talked about this before. It is time that we all have talents, we have a life time of experience, put it to use to make a difference in your community. If you want to travel, experience America for right now. If you want to do something different, find something that interests you.
I am planning a Great Loop experience, getting in a boat, traveling up the east coast on the intercoastal waterway, over to the great leaks, down the Mississippi river and finally making my way back to Florida, or any port I choose. But along the way I am going to work with the local Chambers, talk to people about alternative ways to settle disputes, about business issues. So I am planning this trip and telling you the process along the way. I feel it is time for me to rise up and so something. Find something that interests you and do it. But don't sit idle and do nothing. Live
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Inflation is predicted to rise on food by 2 - 3% doe Oct o December, maybe even more. We all have been hit by higher food costs and now it will go up even more. In this podcast we are going to talk about this issue and how to plan for it.
If you would like a free budget spread sheet to tract your income and costs, go to my website and click on www.lodge-o.com/60minutebusinessadvice.html and click on "Personal Budget Worksheet". It is completely free and easy to use. If you have questions just send me an email to mediator@lodge-co.com
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On September 14th you have the ability to change the downward direction of California. When you hire people you look at their accomplishments. If you look at what Newsom has done from being Mayor of California to being Govenor, he has caused distruction throughout his time in California. Not one single accomplishment that was not political agenda driven, not what is right for Californians. People and businesses are moving out of California as Newsom continues to attack small businesses and chase them out of the state. You are going to fire a bad performer and hire someone that will work for Californians. If you vote no on the recall you have just driven another nail in the State of California. Stop thinking abou democrats against republicans, this is a decision to fire a bad person. Gavin Newsom has done too much damage and created too much chaos in California. You have been touched by his bad leadership and his focus on politics and not Californians. Anyone that has a bad political agenda will destroy everyone that gets in his or her way.
VOTE YES ON RECALLING GAVIN NEWSOM
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On 9/11 we were attacked. On 9/12 we united as a nation. We are being attacked from within by divisional politics, on 9/12 we need to unite as a nation and rebuild our nation. Put your political parties to the side and focus on our communities and work together on what needs to happen to rebuild our communities. Helping our neighbor. Not putting labels like vaccinated and unvaccinated, everyone is the same - we are Americans. On 9/12 we unite. And by the way, starting on 9/12 and you walking along, and you may be wearing a mask, pull it down and smile at people. Show them you are united with them. Smile and work together. Shut the politicians down, shut the news down, and get to work in your communities with your neighbors. Get it done.
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America is under attack inside America by politicians that want government to take control over your freedom, your healthcare decisions, your ability to survive. Americans have the ability by fighting back through the courts and the constitution, and through our votes. We can work together to create change in government. We can o greater things by getting involved in our communities. But we, Americans, have the ability to take back our nation and our government. Don't allow Biden or anyone mandate your healthcare decision. Stand firm and fight. Those businesses who are pushing vaccine mandates, you have opened yourself up to legal risk. You had better sit down with outside attorneys and re-examine your risk. It will be costly if you keep going in the direction of mandated employees, vaccinated vs. unvaccinated. If you comply with the Biden mandate you will be challenged legally for your practices of attacking every employee / patient bill of rights of knowing what the vaccine will do and have the right to make the medical decision to accept it. Businesses are going to be held responsible for making medical decisions for patients, if one dies because of contracting covid or complications, you will be held responsible. You mandated that on your employee. Review your legal risk, because it will be costly. Americans, we can make change but we have to use the constitution to fight for us - legally.
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If you are running a woke business you have been corrupted by politics and a political agenda. If you are discriminating against people because of how they believe, you are an unethical entity. Politics in companies create conflict and disputes, and the more you allow politics to roam around in your businesses and attack other people and fire them, or not serve them, you are unethically corrupt by politics. Politics is not a ethical profession, a political agenda creates more harm then a need to serve others. To serve and hear everyone. People stop talking, individuals become less creative, because they don't know who is going to be offended or who believe in their abilities. Those of you that serve on boards of corporations and allowing or supporting a company to be woke are doing damage to your business, shareholders and to the consumer. If your business is so woke that you are offending consumers - your a ethically challenged. Get politics out of your companies, set up rules, do not take sides, and stop being stupid woke.
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I am not endorsing any politician in California, but I am asking you to recall Gavin Newsom or else.......your state will get worse. This vote will send a very clear message to all California politicians to get their act together. The message is California first, end power driven criminal activity in government. The "Or Else" is not a pretty situation if you keep Gavin Newsom in office. Remember he was Mayor of San Francisco and he destroyed that city. Then he was Lt. Governor and then Governor. His history has been nothing but failure for the Californian. Californians have to stand up and take back control. Don't just let your state burn with Gavin Newsom, get some balls and take back you state. California is a great state, I was born there, it was my home. My friends and family are still there. My heart is in California and it always will be. But Californians have become weak in their decision making process and allowed California to be run down. Highest taxes, highest gasoline prices, highest property taxes, Lowest grade in education, highest poverty rate in the nation, and companies are running from California. It is failing more and more under Gavin Newsom. During the pandemic, Newsom took over and destroyed lives, even until today. Stand up California, take back your nation.
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Last night I sat down and wrote a letter to my Congresswoman that represents me here in Florida. I asked that the 13 names be read into the Congressional Record and that the Congressional Chaplin pray for those names. I as an American can request that items be submitted to the Congressional Record. However, my Congresswoman is a Democrat and sides with Nancy Pelosi on many things. On the day of the bombing she made a very short statement and it was all about her and her son who had served in the military. Politicians never address the paid of the families, instead they turn it around and make it about them. So I have doubt that my letter will get anywhere in Congress. But I encourage each of you to send a letter to your member of Congress. So i pray for the families of these fallen soldiers.
David L Espinoza
Nicole L Gee
Darin T Hoover
Ryan C. Knauss
Hunter Lopez
Rylee J McCollum
Dylan R. Merola
Kareem M Nikoui
Rasario Pichardo
Humberto A. Sanchez
Jared M Schmitz
Maxton W. Soviak
Deagan W. Page.
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The last two podcasts have been about getting involved, fighting loneliness, starting the communication all over again. For a few weeks now I have been thinking about an adventure, to get out and explore. My decision - doing the great loop by boat. Leaving from Florida, going up the intercoastal waterway to New York, over to Chicago, down the Mississippi river to Louisiana and ending in Florida. Probably a year plus adventure. However, I can still do my work on the boat, my office will be my boat for a year. I am now in the planning stages of this adventure. Follow me. Tell me if you have done the great loop. Tell me the good, bad and ugly. If you are currently doing the great loop tell me about it. We have been locked down for so long, our mental health has been weakened and it is now time for a great adventure. You do it to, even if it is just for a day. Get out and do something amazing.
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I was sitting waiting for something to get done and was watching Tiktok. I listened to an older man tell us that he didn't know how to deal with getting old. He lost his friends, he is just doing the same thing everyday, and no one talks with him. His name is Del and he is on today's podcast. But we can help the Del's of the world by just spending time talking to them, listening. Covid created a lot of mental health issues where people told us older people to stay home, it's safer for you. And then payed anymore attention to them. You know people like this, pick up your phone and start calling them. They need to talk and you need to listen. Let's start life again.
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In this world we see governments failing it's people. We see very bad decisions being made. We have realized that Government is not the answer to solve our problems, but rather they are the cause of so many problems. However, we have each other. Put the politics to the side and do what is right. Look for the needs within your communities that you can work together on and toss politics to the side. Kick it to the curb. There is so much to get done that your talents can be used to make a great community. Each one of us has a talent that can be used. This is the podcast to talk about putting our talents to work.
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Yesterday I watched Bidens press conference and became amazed at a man that can not lead. Americans died because of his leadership. Terrorists took over because of Bidens leadership. He is right, the buck stops at his desk. The problem is he is never at his desk because he can't lead. He is responsible for a nation, relationships with our internation friends, but he abandoned them. When a leader shows weakness to our enimies they will attack the weak. Weak leadership creates chaos and death. Weakness puts a target on Americans everywhere, there is evil out there ready to pounce on weakness. Put your politics to the side and ask yourself, is Biden leading? is he making the right decisions for America and our international community? When we hire bad leaders chaos rolls into a larger incident that will destroy even more lives. Ask yourself, is it time to demand for another election to choose a leader? Do we need to vote for a no confidence of the President? Is it time for Biden and Harris to resign because of derelict of duties to America? We need to make a decision fast. Ask the question, has Biden / Harris been derelict in their duties?
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Right now in Congress there are two bills, a 1T infrastructure bill and a 4T spending bill. And the American people do not know what is in either one. No one in Congress wants to explain what their tax dollars are going to be spent on. It's all in a big pile, a bill with hundreds of tiny bills in side it. Otherwise known as pork. Not just any old pork, these are the mother pigs of pork. Trump would call it huuuuuge. I call it nonsense and it has got to be brought under control. Every American should be spending some time and telling their members of Congress to cut it out. Enough. Turn the printing presses off that are printing new money. Money that the American people can not afford. Congress, get your spending under control or you will be out.
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With every crisis we can learn about leadership.
In this podcast we are going to talk about two styles of leadership. The first style is what we are seeing going on in Washington right now out of the Whitehouse. Autocratic Leaders is a form of leadership where decision are made by the leader alone. These leaders don't consider that teams thoughts and opinions before making a decision or heading into a new direction without telling anyone. This is what has happened with the current leader in the Whitehouse.
The leadership that is needed is called Strategic Leadership. These are leaders that adopt the strategic leadership style are often at a crossroads, strategy is important. Planning is vital. This leader essentially accepts executive level interests while supporting lower level concerns to make sure the decision making process brings stability.
From the crisis we are seeing, hearing, and viewing coming out of the capital, we can learn from the chaos about leadership strength and weaknesses. You and I have to learn more about leadership, study it, talk about it, have debates about leadership. Without leadership, you just have chaos and crisis.
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Today has been a day to pray for the people of Afghanistan. We have leaders who have made such bad decision that has destroyed so many peoples lives. Leaders pray. Good leaders pray. E. M. Bounds said, "None but praying leaders can have praying follower." You you lead you need to pray and have people praying. Prayer moves mountains and many times leaders need to move mountains. Today, as we pray for the Afghanistan people. We lead through prayer together.
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Every crisis is a study on leadership, who are good leaders and who are failures. George Washington said, "99% of failure come from people who make excuses." And that is our first lession in leadership. Listen to this podcast as we discuss crisis and leadership.
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You and I have been sitting around worrying about covid, politics, Afghanistan, Biden, and any chaos of the day, and we have forgotten to laugh. We have got to create change in ourselves, turn off the TV's, shut off the politicians, and focus on our mental health and our immune systems by laughing. That is our discussion for the day.
If you have a good joke, send it to me at mediator@lodge-co.com
Negotiating is to build professional relationships rather than burning bridge on your way out of the conference room. Negotiations fail because we let our emotions take over, rather then focusing on the words being said and the opportunities sitting right in front of us. Let's talk about the emotional side of negotiations.
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Leadership is so very important when it comes to leading a nation. We currently have a leader who is not leading. We have a silent President as a international crisis is going on that he has created by bad leadership. No leadership shows the international community that we are not a stable nation. Thus, the bad players take advantage of a weak nation. His disappearance tells Americans and the International community tells us that there is no leader in place to take on the needs of America. I remember Vietnam and the fall of Saigon, I was young during those days. And now I have to relive that same experience as an American helicopter lift Americans from the American embassy in the Capital city of Afghanistan. People with the title of leader who do not lead put our nation at risk.
You and I have got to be good leaders, and it has to start today. We have to protect our own nation together. We have to lead in our homes, communities, schools. We have to lead, not follow, but choose between right and wrong and fight for it. We have to lead.
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Every community has needs. You have talents to fulfill these needs. Use them to give back to your community and make it great again.
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I am really beginning to think that Covid has infected us and we have become un-civil to each other. Some of you have not been infected by Covid but you have become un-civil people. We need to do better at being civil. We hide behind our computer screens and become devils with our attacks and words. We have become the bullies out on the playground and not one treats people with decency. We call people names, we point fingers, we attack. Division starts with un-civil words. Conflicts and disputes begin to divide people. We are responsible for not being civil. Civility is gone, and we are responsible for it. The only way to get it back is for all of us to focus on our words and actions. That is each of our responsibilities.
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Senators, if you vote for this bill that plays game with the American taxpayer, we will hold you responsible. This infrastructure bill does not even address the needs of the American people, instead you are wanting to focus on a mileage tax? And other taxes? How sneaky and corrupt are you? If you vote yes you will be held accountable. VOTE NO
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Many of us think TikTok is censoring us, but another part of the story are those individuals who are angry and they hate it that you question them, or have another opinion other then theirs. What they do is file a complaint with TikTok who then shuts you down while they investigate the complaint. These are people who are trying to do you damage. TikTok did this to me on three postings I had done on my account. Motivational and information posts on mediation. Nothing political, just posting that uplift and inform. However, when you comment on postings and they don't like your response, they become angry and then try and cause as much damage to you based on your comment. TicToc then receives a complaint from these small minded people and they do what they have to do, shut you down for a short period as they investigate. So now you have individuals who know how the TicTok system works, and they use it against people. Social Media is full of angry people who want to do damage to people. Don't worry about it. Karma, what goes around comes around. Now for me as a podcaster, they give me content to talk about, to write about. And I use it to educate others on how social media is just a game filled with bad players.
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We have too many people on social media and in real life that feel that anger is their message, how they should defend their message. This anger then responds to descent with anger towards those that don't agree with them. They can't take someone's comment or question if it is in disagreement with them. So they begin to attack, and they will find anything to attack you on. They can't even focus on what they are fighting for because they go off on an attack tangent on people that don't agree with them. As a mediator I have to angry people that come before me in mediation that want to attack each other instead of focusing on xyz issues that need to be resolved. They are so focused on the attack that they can't put options on the table because they are so angry. It's my job to keep individuals focused on xyz. Once we put the attacks to the side we can focus on xyz. I will use this as my closing. Lao Tzu of the Art of War sais, "The best fighter is ever angry." If you have a sound argument don't use anger to make it. Anger kills off your argument, every single time.
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It appears we have an ethics problem in America. Many who have accepted unemployment have used the money fraudulently. We need to have a conversation about this.
Covid vaccines are not working. Wearing of masks is not stopping the spread of a virus. We should be focusing on the treatment of the virus when you catch it in the hospitals. What are the protocols that works that saves lives. Do your nursing staff know the protocols? There is an ethics issues in this conversation that we must address.
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There is a huge spending bill in the Senate and Congress on infrastructure with a lot of pork in it. The Democrats have gone way out of control and want to spend money on non-infrastructure spending instead of just focusing on pure infrastructure needs of America. Schumer in the Senate is pushing this bill through legislative dirty tricks with the backing of Nancy Pelosi. Instead of doing what is right for America and focusing on pure infrastructure they play politics. They keep printing money to cover his nonsense that increases inflation, the taxes we pay on the inflated prices of food, gas and other consumer goods. Inflation will be here for a long time because of bad economic leadership in our government. Tell your Senators and members of Congress, stop with the out of control spending and that you want them to explain what the infrastructure money is going to be spent on.
Now, Dr. Fauci and the CDC are out of control. They have confused the American people so greatly on the wearing of masks and the use of the vaccine. So many promises have been made by Fauci that have never worked. So today the CDD is going to announce that vaccinated people need to wear masks indoors. After we were told if you are vaccinated you are not going to get covid. Even that was wrong and now the data begins to change within the healthcare systems to produce more bad information that based on corrupted data. Fauci has got to go. It is time.
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I was listening to an individual yesterday talking about the price of a can of Campbell's tomato soup tell you where the economy is. So being an interested individual I googled it. Sure enough there is a chart produced that shows the price of Campbell's tomato soup from the very beginning. It shows what happened to the price of a can that identified the inflationary times of America. Today, I looked last night, a can of soup is at $1.10, maybe higher in other places. It was an interesting look at the inflation times through the can of Tomato soup in America. The point is, the economy is not good for you and me. For corporations, yes it is good, for the stock market it is good. But for you and me, who have to survive, inflation pays a big part in our lives. Revenue is not staying up with the inflated costs of goods. Rent prices have inflated. Real estate prices have been inflated. The stock market prices are inflated. In that world - the bubble has to pop. I have hearing that banks are telling those in the foreclosure market to get ready for September 2021. That is not good to hear. Banks are stopping credit lines to individuals. Banks noted this week that their credit card interest income is way down. You and I have got to become better financial managers of our money. When the economy drops because of bad monetary policies out of the Whitehouse, it will be a thud. Get ready for a thud.
Campbells Soup: https://politicalcalculations.blogspot.com/2020/01/the-price-history-of-campbells-tomato.html#.YPmBOuhKiUk
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Money is not the root of all evil. It is the LOVE of money that is the root of all evil. And it also creates money conflicts and disputes because of the lack of money or bad management of money. Credit becomes Debt. Money creates conflicts that create a stress on a marriage or a relationship. Inflation creates the lack of money that will create a conflict in many homes across this nation and really the world. But you can be proactive and start created a money management plan. You can also bring in a mediator with a financial background that can mediate the issues and set up an agreement to better manage your financial issues. If you need help, send me an email at info@lodge-co.com We can work on it together.
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Pizza Hut has come out with their support of Critical Race Theory. A theory that teaches racism to young people in school, by teaches who have been taught this in Universities. Parents, take back control of your school. And Pizza Hut - shame on you. Listen to their video on this podcast. It is wrong. When corporations begin supporting a political agenda it no longer is a ethical company. When Facebook works with the Whitehouse on censoring people who speak out against vaccinations is an unethical company and the Whitehouse is dangerous. This has got to be looked at by the American people to protect their freedoms, liberties. Censorship is not acceptable through the constitution of the United States, but the Whitehouse has no belief in the constitution, rather they only support a socialist political agenda.
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Joe Biden sits in Washington DC and ignores the needs of the people in Cuba as they fight for freedom. The Coast Guard is stopping people from going to Cuba by boat to deliver food and medicine to the people of Cuba. Biden and Harris are playing politics with the socialists in the United States - that is their base. Cubans are waiting in long lines just trying to get some break, and Biden and Harris wants to install socialism in the United States. AOC remains silent. Bernie Sanders remains silent. But Americans and Cubans in Florida are suppoting the people of Cuba. Cuban people, know that Biden is not your friend. Harris is not your friend. The Democrats in Congress are not your friend. Support Cuba. Support freedom.
The other issue that is hitting Americans at this time in Inflation that is created by Biden's economic policies and by the actions of Congress who spend taxpayer money that creates inflation. Biden's only economic policy - spend money and tax the American people. This has got to stop or the Americans may be standing in those same bread lines that we see in Cuba - because of socialist policies of our Federal Government.
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What we see happening in Cuba is starting to take form in America. Socialist politicians say nothing to support the Cuban people. They remain silent because they want socialism in America. Everyone across Cuba and America should be shouting FREEDOM
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We are doing a bad job at communicating with other people. We are willing to call people names just because they don't believe as you do. Hate and Anger seems to be ok to prove your point, but what it does it kills off any message you may have. Teachers and pastors, you need to do a better job at teach people on how to communicate better. Anger and hate does not prove their position is right. Anger attracts anger back to you. Words create conflict and if you don't listen, if you don't think, you will attract anger back to you.
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I love words ahd phrases. If you listen to the conversations around you a spot of wisdom will come to you. Words that can inspire and they can make you laugh. Listen to the words around you.
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Happy father's day dad! Never walk a day in your life as a father thinking you are not loved. You are loved and admired. You are a very vibrant important part of the family you have created. Let's talk about a father who thought he lost his son.
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I heard a great quote this morning from economist Edward Yardeni. "When the barbers start raising prices you have to worry about broad-based inflation." He is 100% correct and I have been talking to you about it for months. Inflation is here now and it is time for us to manage our money better. I have a free excel budget for you to use at www.lodge-co.com and click on the tab that says 60 Minute Advisory. Use it, it is free, it is not collecting any of your data, it is just a free excel spread sheet for you to use. Use it.
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I have been talking and writing about inflation for many months now, warning you of what will happen. Well it is here now and we have to deal with it. Inflation is when prices of stuff goes up. Prices are up 5% in the past year - the largest increase since 2008. That is not good because each of you are now paying higher taxes, when prices go up - so does the sales and use tax you pay on goods. So does the gas tax to transport that tomato to the store. If you got a raise this year your raise has just been eaten up by inflation of 5% and higher taxes on consumer goods. Do you think it will get worse? Yep, sure enough it will get worse. Be proactive and start saving and creating your home operating budget, set different spending habits, and shop like an expert shopper who knows how to get deals.
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I am so thankful for social media, it provides me with so much content for my podcast and writing attempts. Two days ago a young latino women was on Tictok so angry because she had attacked someone with words and got an angry response back. She went to the police and the police officer said to her that since she tried to provoke she got hate back. She then told the police officer that he was on the other persons side and walk away angry at the police officer. So here we have a young women who thinks only her views are right and she says it with anger. And she thinks everyone should agree with her and that no one will fight back on her remarks. Anger, hate, never solved anything - but it does attract other hatters to respond with hate. Focus on your mission with the words you use. Once you spout hate and anger, your mission is dead.
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If you own a business or are a leader of a business you know what conflict is. Conflict costs companies billions every single year. Let's look at the facts:
Workplace conflict can happen between individuals, teams or departments. Even between partners of businesses. But it doesn't always come from where you think it will. Only 3% of work conflicts are the result of personality or cultural differences. The tope three sources of workplace conflict are opposing priorities. Lack of Communication. Misunderstanding about how urgent tasks are. There is an over-abundance of people involved with projects, 63% of office workers say there are too many cooks in the kitchen! 64% say there's confusion about who's doing what! But a dearth of clarity on assignments and job roles. Often, the causes of conflict go all the way to the top. Sometimes created at the top. Almost 4 out of 10 office workers say communication with their company leadership is ineffective! So the pressure continues to build and build until CONFLICT FINALLY EXPLODES!!!!
These conflicts are devastating in terms of financial and human capital. 39% say productivity is the biggest casualty of conflict. 32% say conflict kills moral and increases turnover. 30% say it destroys confidence in other teams and distracts from opportunities. 1 out of 4 office workers say just trying to avoid conflict causes illness or absence from work. Office workers spend 28 hours every week dealing with conflict. This all inflicts potentially catastrophic damage on companies. That translates to $359 billion in losses every year for U.S. Companies. As business leaders and companies, we need to hire a business mediator to resolve these disputes. Create a better communication standard that helps each employee grow and get rid of conflict.
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June is gay pride month around the United States and parts of the world. This morning I was watching a tictok of a young gay conservative man who stated he didn't understand why there should be a gay pride month. His view. However, the backlash of gay individuals attacked him with the full thrust of hate because he did not believe as they did. So the hate that came through their written words were disgusting. If you remember what the gay community fought for was for tolerance. To be accepting of the gay community. However, not tolerance has not been practiced by the gay community on a whole hose of issues. Tolerance has become a one way street, only one view, one direction. Everyone else is not tolerable. In politics we see the same issues and the view that if you don't go with us you are the enemy. That is not tolerance. Tolerance is being accepting and having the conversations to understand the other point of view is. So to this old gay man who verbally attacked a younger gay men - practice tolerance. Practice what you fought for.
Every single one of us, in all walks of life, should be practicing tolerance. Practice it and then sit down with the other side and hear them out. Don't attack, instead listen and understand why. If you truly believe in tolerance you will practice it well.
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There are two words that get misused every single day by people trying to sell you on something. I ran a pole on Linkedin on the term "Influencer". The question was, social media is filled with people calling themselves "influencers". Do they really influence or are they just selling something". People came back and said only 25% influence. 13% Does not influence. And 63% are just selling something.
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Succession does not always mean you are dyeing. But you may want to leave the company, go in another direction, you may even want to retire and buy a boat and sail the world. However, you need a succession plan for the event when you decide to leave the company. Remember, you may be leaving but it is not all about you. The people within your organization want to know what happens when you do leave, is there a plan? I suggest that you sit down with a business mediator who has experience in mediating succession plans. Leaders plan for the time they will leave.
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Over the weekend I joined a new app called Clubhouse where you join a room, but you don't type your opinion you literally speak your questions or comments. Typing you can say anything to insult someone, but when you are talking to a group of people with your voice you are nice about it. But one of the rooms was called, Why to Men Give 100% and Women Only Give 30%? Just that very question has set up any relationship with doom. If you are going to start a relationship by keeping score you will fail every single time. Even when I am doing separation or divorce mediation both sides are still keeping score. The scoring system creates a great amount of stress on a relationship because it is a selfish emotional need. and you have forgotten about the want to create a good relationship for both of you. Keeping score is a very selfish system for just one person, the other individual only counts if they match your score card. No everyone is going to be able to give 100% of themselves because circumstances change that affect the life together. There maybe times when a person in the relationship can only give 80 percent and you may have to pick up the other 20% to get through a job loss, child issue, a family death, and the list goes on. That is life and when you use a score card you have pretty much sent the relationship to a mediator because you destroyed the relationship with selfish motives. Stop keeping a scorecard in your relactionship. Work to build the relationship, not tear it down by keeping score.
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America is being hit with a whole bunch of economic issues that is leading to inflation based on economic policy of Biden. We have a war in the middle east at the moment because of the failed foreign policy of Biden that has disrupted the friendship with Israel and his support of Hamas. We have a Whitehouse and a Democratic lead Congress that want to keep attacking businesses with higher taxes. The list goes on and on with a President that does not lead, instead he follows a failed political agenda that is doing great damage to our nation. Political agenda's never help the nation, instead it only helps the individuals pushing the agenda to gain more power and create more chaos. We have no leader for our nation.
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Currently we have inflation, running out of gas and higher prices, threats of higher taxes, more power being given to the IRS, by bad policies coming out of the Whitehouse and Mr. Biden. Biden has no idea on what an economy is. The people around him have never built anything or created jobs. They know nothing about how an economy runs. So they create policies that make it harder for the American people to survive. However, you and I know what we need to do.
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The politics of government policies affect the nations economy. Government does not create jobs, never have and never will. But their policies on inflation, economics, taxes and other issues affects your pocket books. Right now we are seeing inflation rise. In fact the first quarter of 2021 it rose by 3.8% Earlier this week Warren Buffett stated he is seeing significant inflation affecting America at the moment. That is not good because inflation sucks out the cash from our pocket books.
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It is Friday, end of the week. Let's just talk about stuff. Nothing planned, just words about business.
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I will not be listening to the President state of the union. I have been lied to too many times and I am tired of it. Everything that Biden said he would not do he did. Every word that he utters is a lie, it is an attack on the economic security of Americans. Biden will stand before the nation and give you an argument as to why he needs to spend more money, take out more debt, tax you more. He will tell you again, "I need your help". And as they talk about trillions of money needed they can't really tell you how our taxes money has been spent or how more taxes are going to be spent. Why? Because they don't want you to know. Before one more tax is raised, before one more loan is taken out, tell the American people how the money is being spent and find a way to reduce the spending of the people's money. Americans, my friends, we have to hold the Congress and the President accountable for the sources and use of our money. That is our money and they need to answer to the American people how it is or will be spent. We have got to hold them accountable. Right now we have taxation without representation in government because we have a dominant party in power, so the people's voice is gone because a party has taken control. There is a fence around the capital to keep Americans out. Demand that your members of Congress find a way to cut spending before any new taxes are added and before any loans are signed on. Government was never to be this large, Congress was never designed to be a full time job with retirement benefits. We the American people have got to take back control from a political system that has become so corrupt with dirty politics that nothing gets done for the American people. Hold government responsible - starting today.
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Joe Biden is wanting to tax capital gains, business and individuals with higher taxes. And he doesn't care that Americans went through a pandemic, he just want your taxes so he can spend it on non-sense. He and the democrats have this hatred for success, for wealth, for jobs. They want the socialist system where everyone makes the same amount and you have government medical care that kills. Biden and the Democrats are trying to destroy this nations economy by tax and spend, political agendas, and hate for Americans. I have never seen it this bad where the Democrats and the President do not care about the American people. The beady-eyed focus is to tax and spend and destroy the vision of success. Look at the countries around us who use to be socialists, they are now economic power houses. They left socialism and adopted a capitalist form of government. Yet, Biden in his blindness and pushing America towards socialism. The only way that changes is by changing the power in Congress and the Senate so we can stop the socialist movement. It is up to all Americans.
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We have to do better at controlling our words. Our words do too much damage. Look at politicians and their words of hate and how much damage and division it does to the country. Look at the words we use in dealing with other people, a lot of the time our words create more damage. If your words are hateful you will create damage. If you think about your words of civility before you say them, you will get more done. The problem is that we don't think. We react. Reaction just creates a bigger issue. Think about your words and use less words. Use the 25 words or less works that create words of strong content that can uplife and create a better situation. Stop reacting and think.
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There is a dangerous political tool used by Politicians that attack individuals based on the word racism. It is very easy for people to call you a racist where racism isn't even a part of the discussion. But people know that calling people a racist is a political tool that everyone now uses. We have lost the true discussion on racism because it has become political and not meaningful. I grew up as a kid during the time of real racism and the discussion of how to resolve it. I grew during the time of an evil Governor of Alabama who had in his inaugural promise of "segregation now, segregation tomorrow, segregation forever". I can still see in my mind the TV news of Wallace standing in front of a school to block the entry of two African American students. Remember their names, Vivian Malone and James Hood. We had a racial problem in the United States, but there were Americans who wanted to solve the problem and worked together to make it a recially better country where everyone was included in our country. But today politicians throw out the word racist only to enhance their political agenda and to not solve problems. So the word racist has been formed into a hate filled political tool to try and divide. Political racism is not a wholesome discussion or work process on actual racism when it happens. We as Americans need to stop this political racism and focus on the real act of racism. We can only do that by working together without the interference of a political agenda driven politician.
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Here is a great statement, "Regrets are a waste of time". That is a line from what movie"
Let me give you a hint. It starts with a divorce. Ends in Italy where she takes a leap of faith and creates a brand new life. What is that movie? Because it can apply to your life.
The movie is, "Under the Tuscany Sun".
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This mornings rant is about Biden's non-existent political and economic agenda, Inflation that is hitting all of us, and our spending as Americans. Inflation is here and going up month by month. You and I have got to do better at budgeting and where we are spending our money.
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I had some things on my chest that I needed to get off on. Nothing bad, all good. Maybe I should rant everyday, it felt good for 30 minutes.
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Over the weekend I watched The Godfather 1, 2, and 3. Each one had a business lesson. This podcast goes over the business lesson you can learn from the movie. This podcast is about the Godfather business strategy and what you can learn what can help you in business, life and mediation.
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We have a cancel out culture that starts with the President of the United States and politically driven corporations. They push their political agenda and try and hurt the people who do not believe as they do. This cancel culture has got to stop. Politically agenda driven corporations do great damage, they create conflict and that is unethical. Biden keeps telling the lie on taxes and he doesn't care that businesses in communities have been hit hard by government and their reaction to the virus.. And now Biden says everyone will be taxed more. So inflation begins. Taxes goes up. Gas prices have gone up 20%, food prices have gone up, daily living is going up. Taxes goes up and it gets passed on to all Americans. By the end of this year we will be fighting a big jump in inflation based on the direction the President is going. Biden did not create these new employment numbers, he has not had an economic plan. People are going back to work because states have opened up, business is up an running, people are going back to work, restaurants are opening up, the service industry is gaining in jobs. This opening up is not from Biden, he wants to keep you shut down and threatens it every single day. Governors of these states who opened up helped create jobs and people going back to work. Biden? Hell no, he is a brick wall to business and jobs. Enough of this nonsense. We have to put people into office that are not politically driven, but are there to represent our needs, not their party power base. We have to change America before Biden does more damage.
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Corporations have got to focus on their business, stop getting involved in unethical politics that try and do harm. They spout political spin by not even knowing the political issue. Spin on political issues does more damage to the name of the companies and the people within these companies. If a corporate CEO is trying to do damage to another person or a community, should not be a CEO. The Board of Directors need to stop the CEO to be political. You damage your bran by politics. Politics is not an unethical entity, it is corrupt. You bring politics into your corporation or business, you corrupt your business. If a CEO has a political agenda, they should not use the company as a back drop of their political views. politics will always hurt a brand. Now Americans are saying - boycott Delta, Coca-Cola and other companies based on the CEO's political statements. A damaged brand by politics, by an unethical CEO, is hard to clean up. Those CEO's statements on politics live on, you can't wipe them away. Those words keep spinning around and around on the internet. Cut the damage quickly and remove these CEO's that damage the company and their attempt to play a role in the unethical practice of politics.
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If you don't know the Easter story please read about it today. You will be blessed and find the ability to forgive. Can you imagine that as Jesus hung on the cross, between to thieves, he looked down at those scoffing him and forgave. He looked at the soldier that stabbed him with a spear, he looked down and said you do not know what you do, I forgive you. Who do you need to forgive on this Easter day? If you chose to forgive your walk in life becomes lighter. Those that call you name, forgive and don't hold a grudge. People may never love you but you love them anyway. This is what Easter is all about. Forgive.
HAPPY EASTER!!
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Major League Baseball have stopped the American game to make the league into a political agenda driven sport. Sponsors who continue to sponsor this agenda have to understand that American's have had it. And your team and your product is no longer wanted. MLB has allowed their organization to be corrupted by politics. Any time a corporation or a sport organization allows politics to be a part of their culture they have corrupted their organization. Politics is not ethical or truthful. Politics corrupts and destroys organizations. When you try and push a political agenda down the throats of the American people they will fight back. Thye don't have to be talked down to through politics and hear how you believe as a corporation or organization. The only way to stop these corporations and organizations is through their business finances, less we buy, the less they have, the message is clear. Destroy a the American baseball past time with politics we will fight back against those who push a political agenda down our throats. You can keep being political all you want, but you will not get our business and that will come to an end. Boycott corporations and sports organization that have a political agenda. BOYCOTT!
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Delta and Coca Cola have had loud voices in the election law just passed by the State of Georgia. They did the normal spin that is coming out of Washington on racism and elections. However, these same companies keep selling their products, flying their planes into countries where human rights violations run rampant. But they say nothing. Countries where people are killed for their beliefs, they cry for freedom is shut down by those in power. These companies don't want to loose their revenues in these countries, so they remain silent. Any time that a corporation decides to create or support a political agenda they corrupt the ethics of their business. Politics is never ethical. Politics is the process of getting things done unethically. And it gets worse every single day. If you are going to put down one small state in the United States because you want to be politically correct but you say nothing about the countries they are doing business in where human right violations are happening around the clock in hundreds of countries. So, when you speak out to be politically correct you have just corrupted your corporation with politics. The CEO has spoken out in the name of the company. Ethical? No, it is unethical and corporations have got to act better, ethically, and stop being political activists, do your job as a corporation and grow the company - ethically.
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This pandemic has damaged us. We have forgotten who we are. We have had people tell us what to do everyday for over a year. We have been told not to think and remain in our homes. We have lost the personal contact with people. It is time, right now, today, to remember who we are. Repeat after me - If I know who I am, I don't care who you think I am. I am going to do great things today and no one will stop me. It's time we stop this doom and gloom and focus on our life - starting today. Let's do it.
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Biden has created a national security and border crisis. He started it when he was running for President. People in other countries were invited by Biden to come to America. Today they are showing up at the border with Biden T-Shirts on. The issue with minors coming across to the United States is way bigger then it was with Trump, Trump fixed the issue. The media and members of Congress were all over Trump. Now we have hundreds of thousands coming across the border while the Traffickers' brag about how much they are making, thanks to Biden. It looks like Biden endorses human trafficking to the United States, he does nothing to shut down our nations border. People are coming into the nation infected with Covid and other viruses and disease. 10% of those illegally crossing the border are not from Mexico and South America. Biden releases these people into the population with no questions asked. This is a national security issue that Biden created and as Americans we need to talk about - impeachment.
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American business is again being attached by China and Biden and letting it happen. Biden's economic plan is to raise taxes on companies and Americans and China is lowering their taxes to entice American companies to produce their Chips and other electronic products in China. We currently have a chip shortage in American car manufacturing because the chip products are coming from China. China does not like America. Remember when the pandemic started we could not get medical supplies from China to America, they manipulated the medical product markets. Again, China plays their games and if American business falls for it we will be in a worse boat with China controlling the market and Americans will suffer. We have no economic leadership from Biden or anyone in Government because their decision are politically driven and not American driven.
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The words are true, when things change inside you, things change around you. Don't wait for a disaster or a crisis come to change the person inside you. Don't let people on the side that create distress get in front of you and block your road. Change yourself inside, your spirituality, your forgiveness, your strength, and the world will change around you. I have gone through a crisis and I had to change inside or I would not be around. When you change your life inside, everyone that are a problem will go away because you will forget about their behaviors. You can keep fighting and let those people stand in front of you all the time, blocking your path, or you can put them to the side and keep moving forward. Change inside you, change the world around you.
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The Press Conference of Joe Biden was a nonsense event. As of last night we still have no idea what Biden is going to do. He is not leading, instead he is being lead by other people. We have a crisis at the border and he refuses to address it like a leader would do. We have no idea what his economic policy is for America - except he is going to raise taxes. He is sending Harris down to the border to address the crisis when at one point she called ISIS Nazi's. She hates the border and the people that protect Americans at the border. Last nights press conference did nothing for the American people. Nothing! But what we did see is a President that can't complete a sentence. We saw a President that can't communicate with the American people or answer questions. The event was a staged event with the help of the press. We as Americans are watching this and thinking - Goodness we are in trouble. At this time, Biden should not be President. He has no mental competence to lead or make major decisions. At the beginning of this President's term I said I would support this president so the nation could move forward. However, this President does not have the ability to understand what is going on, he can't communicate his policies - because there really is none. His mental ability is fading very quickly and he should have never taken office. I like Biden, I have been following him for years, he has been a character in Washington for years. The problem is he is not capable to lead or think the process through of what is good for American. Politicians surround him in the Whitehouse and ushing a political agenda, not what is good for Americans but rather what gives them more power. 2022 gives us the ability to change the balance in power in Congress and the United States Senate. It is time for change. Ready for it? Are you going to fight for it?
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When you enter into a mediation agreement you agree that confidentiality is vital and should be followed. What is said and written in mediation is confidential. You should not be talking about the mediation with anyone. If you do you may find yourself in breach of confidentiality. If you are posting things on social media about your mediation you are breaching the confidentiality of the mediation. If you are talking to your boyfriends or girlfriends about your mediation you are in breach. That is why mediation is so important to hold confidentiality as a ethical act. If you go to court your legal affairs is now public information, in mediation it is held confidentially. In all aspects of life, if you are having a confidential discussion with anyone - you keep your mouth shut. Same in mediation. Be respectful of the mediation process.
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On yesterday's podcast we talked about the communication process to those going through a break-up, separation or divorce. Today we are going to talk about the family and how it still exists even though you are going through a divorce.
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The communication process is the most important part of life. How we use words and how we deliver them is vital for a successful process of communication. This podcast covers the subject of communication and how to do it better. Get you note pad and start taking notes.
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This morning I checked my bank account this morning and there was a fresh deposit from the Government sitting there. I am going to keep it there, I am not going to spend it, and I need to prepare in case the Government screws us again with some other issue. All of us have to start building up our bank accounts in the event the government screws us again. We just got out of a pandemic, we have inflation growing, Biden wants to raise taxes on Americans, and the list goes on and on that will create an economic problem for this nation. Take the check from the government and stuff it into your bank account for a much different economic downturn that we have never seen before. Prepare your finances. Be a good steward of your money. If you are getting refunds, put it in the bank and leave it there. The pandemic taught us that government is bad at handing a crisis for the American people because they think politically instead of what is good for the American people. I will say it again, take this government money that you paid for with your taxes and the debt piled on us as Americans and keep it there in the bank for a cloudy rainy economic day that is coming. Be a proactive American.
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Do you remember AB 5 that was passed in California that destroyed the independent and gig economy? The one that killed jobs and opportunities in California? The bill that was created by Unions to get control over workers and businesses in California? Well they are at it again in the Pro Act that attacks independent contractors and small business. They failed at California so now they want to destroy the nation with the same bill but in the Pro Act. Congress, especially Democrats, seem to hate small business, they want everyone to live equally, same pay, same healthcare, they want the entire nation flat lined. Independent contractors do a lot of great work and create new things in business. Remember, Biden has said he wants the United States to follow the California model of failure. Call members of the Senate to vote NO on the Pro Act. We have to speak up and stop politicians from destroying the lives of the American people.
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Biden has no economic plan for the United States. Wall Street sees prices going up but don't want to admit to inflation is happening. The numbers out of the government on inflation shows that the consumer price index is going up, but they don't add on all of the other costs to costs going up. However, they do admit that costs have gone up in food because gasoline prices have gone up. The $1.9 trillion dollar stimulus package will create more inflationary issues. So Biden has no economic plan except to raise taxes, raise the cost of gas and other costs, so his plan equals inflation. Biden has no clue on business or the economy because he has a socialist point of view. No one can afford food and other goods in socialist countries because everything is inflated due to bad economic policy. America is face with that same mentality by our government. Americans have got to put away funds for these inflationary times, because inflation has started. Use some commonsense in your own lives as to the cost of living is going up, so we have to live in a more conservative spending habits.
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This virus has been a year of virus concerns and political power struggles. It has shut down our ability to travel and explore. Things are now changing and we need to start planning for our travels in this world and in our very own country. One good thing is that Youtube has so many people who share their vlog travel experiences. I watch them every day and it makes me feel better to see other people living the art of travel. Travel makes you a better person in life and you make new friends. Making friends is the best part of travel. Come on, lets start planning for our travel.
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When you are starting up you may need to hire part time, contracted, or full time employees. Who should your first hires be? Remember, you are on a tight cash budget. So let's talk about your first hires that will help you start up.
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Everyone sat around their TV to watch Harry and his wife cut down his family. Not much royal loyalty there. Here you have Harry's wife creating a divide between his family. That is aa dangerous relationship because everyone else is to blame for them to act like spoiled children. So if the queen needs a new grandson - I am here. I can step up and do the job that Harry was suppose to do. I am good mediator, I can help you keep the peace in the palace. Give me a chance. Life is funny isn't it?
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I have received two emails this past weekend asking me - if I have no income and only expenses for my Schedule C can I deduct the expenses? What do you think the ethical answer is?
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As a kid I loved the Dr. Seuss books. Every time you read his books you feel you need to rhyme, and it's hard not to. The estate of Dr. Seuss pulled a book call, "And To Think I Saw It On Mulberry Street". I love this story where a father tells his son to open his eyes and look at everything, observe what he sees, as he goes to school and comes home. The son begins to make up a big story about what he saw, but by the time he got home all he could tell his dad that he only saw and old horse and wagon on Mulberry Street. The book was pulled because it had one word in there, "Chinaman". In todays culture there are a lot more worse words being used but are not canceled out. Do we cancel out books just because of one word? Do we shut down twitter and other social media sites of individuals because they are not saying what you believe in? Do we just throw the constitution and our freedom of speech out the door because of a cancel culture? Do we allow this culture to advance and cancel you or me out? I am hoping your answer is no. It is time we start taking back our freedom of speech, once government and politicians, media, begin canceling us out and our freedoms it becomes so hard to get back. So start fighting back, protect your rights, don't be canceled out.
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I am so happy to see states opening up 100% and putting healthcare decisions back in the hands of American's. However, inflation is rising, the cost of living is going up, gas and food prices are on the rise. That means our finances are going to change again. That means, you and I have to be good stewards of our money as inflation begins to hit our pocket books. Be a good steward of your finances n 2021.
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Today I have done 1,000 episodes on business, taxation, management, politics, mediation and other subjects. I have stayed consistent with my message throughout the years So today, I am turning 1,000 around and tomorrow start with Episode 1, starting again. Thank you for listening to me all around the world. this podcast has been heard even in Iran, which is amazing to me. So to all of you around the world I thank you for listening. If there is anything you would like for me to cover on this podcast, please let me know and I will dig in and do it for you. Thank you for listening and let's start fresh tomorrow morning.
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If you have never watched the Gordon Ramsey show on fixing restaurants and you own a company, watch it, you will learn something. The show has the same theme in almost every show. An owner or a chef that has developed conflict in their business and it had destroyed the business, everything goes bad because of some sort of conflict. If you own a business and you are not taking responsibility for the conflict, you will destroy a business. Management, clean up conflicts in your business before you end the business. Conflict destroys business, unless you address it, fix it, and move forward.
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If you like my content please support me at www.buymeacoffee.com/MichaelLodge If you have any questions or comments send me a text to 818.252.5682 www.lodge-co.com
Tell me your story and start focusing on change in your community. There is a lot of work to get done and you can gift your talent and your story to create change.
Nancy Pelosi and Schumer are trying to pass a bill that only covers about 1% for covid. The rest of it is for nonsense that has nothing to do with covid. The President and the Democrats are pushing a bill that does nothing for the American people. 1% of $1.9 trillion for political payback is not acceptable to the American people. Those Democrats pushing a $15 minimum wage to a covid stimulus bill has nothing to do with covid. The increase does greater harm to small business. There was one Democratic member of Congress that said that if small business can't pay a $15 minimum wage that the business should not be in business. That is how they think, they have no care what happens to small business in the United States, and hiding it in a stimulus bill for Congress is criminal. It's corrupt. Show me line by line of the bill, build an excel spread sheet, and show me how the $1.9 trillion is being spent. I have the right to know as a taxpayer. Those in Congress and the Senate who are trying to puss through a bull bill of nonsense that has nothing to do with Covid, STOP! Americans are not stupid and we will start making changes in Congress very soon by those who vote for this bull filled bill. Enough. The American people say - ENOUGH. Call your members of Congress and the Senate and tell them - NO.
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Mediation should be used in construction disputes more. There are issues that arise on almost every construction site that leads to a dispute. It can be a change order that was not approved, billing for materials not part of your construction contract, over charges, construction quality issues, construction schedules and various charges for being late, warranties on the work and the list goes on. Mediation provides both parties mediation and resolve disputes prior to going into a costly legal battle.
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When I went to college we were all required to take a class called, "Marriage and Family Life". The college knew that many were going to college not just for an education, but they were going to find a marriage partner at school. So we were all required to learn what we were going to get into. Once you say, "I Do", life changes, but in most of our lives we are not prepared for what is going to happen. As a Mediator I hear the stories of people's lives who have gone through the marriage process and it didn't work, they got separated or divorced, have children, and now they have to mediate the process of a failed marriage. Most people when they are planning to get married they don't think about the issues that happen in marriage and family life after you say, "I Do". Clergy have got to do a better job in their marriage practices within their churches, better prepare people about marriage and family life before and after the marriage ceremony. We all have got to do better in the education process of marriage and family life.
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I love the ladybug. It is an amazing little bug that helps this world by protecting the trees. When a tree is infected by aphids, the tree pumps out a cloud of fragrance that attracts the ladybug. The ladybug gets the message and fly's to the tree to start killing off the aphids. What do you think the business story will be from the ladybug? Listen to the podcast.
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Today I am at podcast 993. I am just about to 1,000 podcasts. That is a lot of work over the years to teach business through a podcast. I have loved every moment of it.
Today's title podcast pretty much tells it all. i see people posting pictures of mounds of money or diamond studied watches on social media. Dumbest thing to do. You are posting evidence. When you are under audit or suspected of tax fraud, the IRS and various international tax organization, have an algorithm that goes out on social media and pulls this information down. Evidence that you are spending money on bling but not paying your taxes. How dumb are you to create your own evidence for the government. Ego can get you into a lot of trouble.
I want to say goodbye to a friend who has driven with me in the car and talked to me as I drove. Rush Limbaugh was a great radio host that talked about out nation daily. Sometimes I agreed and sometimes I didn't, but that is a part of life. He was always consistent in his message and that is a trait we all need. Consistency. Rush has passed away and all I can say is God is with him and I will miss him.
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I was going to title todays podcast, "Let's Talk About Politics and Throw Up". But I decided to keep the podcast until Friday. I wrote a blog yesterday on communicating during divorce, separation and co-parenting and thought I really should follow that with a podcast on the same subject. If you want to read the full blog go to www.lodge-co.com and click on bizblog and it is called, "Separations, Parenting, and Communication". In today's podcast we talk about short responses, focusing on the issues, and using the 25 words or less rule. Simple communication is the best way to resolve issues and to get answers.
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All of us are remote working from home and has created home office expenses for employees. However, due to the Tax Cuts and Jobs Act, home office expenses are no longer deductible for employees. But employers have tax-friendly options for covering employee expenses. There are tax codes that can help out the employer and employee. There are options you need to talk to your employer about in getting reimbursed by the employer or other remedies available to the employer.
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The Democratic impeachment team, leading the charge of impeachment in the senate committed evidence tampering and should be charged in Congress with unethical and possibly criminal activity and removed from Congress. If that activity were to be done by an attorney in a court of law, if an attorney every presented evidence that was doctored, manufactured or any way altered, the attorney would be disbarred, held i contempt, and maybe even prosecuted for a felony. To me, thinking about if it were to happen to me, someone tampering with evidence against me, I would be furious. Each member of Congress on that impeachment team should be thrown out of Congress for lying to the American people and to the United States Senate. This is a highly unethical act and it needs to be addressed by Congress and their ethics committee and by the Department of Justice. Now it probably won't because the Congress is lead by a corrupt politician. Nancy Pelosi twice ran an impeachment trial based on zero evidence. And for those who voted for impeachment should be voted out of office because they believed the lies of Congress and their made up evidence. Ethics has to be upheld in the United States Congress by the American people. We can't have people who continue to lie and try and destroy peoples lives based on lies. It has to stop. Congress - act ethically and remove these members from Congress for presenting tainted, unethical, evidence on impeachment. Are you an ethical body of government? The answer is no. And the American people have had enough.
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Let's keep it simple.
If you want to make peace with your enemy, you have to work with your enemy. Then he becomes your partner. Nelson Mandela
MEDIATE YOUR CONFLICTS
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In America there are 30.7 million small businesses which account for 99.9 percent of all U.S. businesses (SBA 2019). We in small business create more then 1.5 million jobs yearly and account for 64 percent of new jobs created in the U.S. (Fundera, 2019). However, with this much punch from small business to the the American job market Government seems to hate small business. Look at California as they drive people out of their state, businesses are leaving for tax friendlier states. Even Democrats have left California because the state is out of control and hate small businesses. New York has the same problem where they think government is a higher priority then small businesses. You and I as small businesses are on our own. Listen to today's podcast.
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I love being a mediator. Mediation is another of the methods of alternative dispute resolution or ADR. In mediation, the disputing parties work with a neutral third party, the mediator, to resolve their disputes. The mediator facilitates the resolution of the parties' disputes by supervising the exchange of information and the bargaining process. The mediator helps the parties find common ground and deal with unrealistic expectations. He or she may also offer creative solutions and assist in drafting a final settlement. The role of the mediator is to interpret concerns, relay information between the parties, frame issues, and define the problems. Then get both sides to come to an fair agreement. So that is a definition of what a mediator is and does.
In the years I have been mediating I have almost heard every kind of issue and almost every swear word. I have mediated divorce situations and who was going to get the dog. I have mediated estates and will and who was going to get paid. I have mediated relationships between grandparents and children so they could see their grandchildren. And I have mediated a lot of business issues because that is what I have been doing for quite sometime. I think I have mediated almost every situation. Each mediation has two stories and two people that are saying the same thing but in different ways because of their frustration. In the end, we have a proposal on the table and it is time to write and agreement and get a resolution. That is what mediation is about.
If you have a question or need mediation, send me a text to 818.252.5682 or send an email to info@lodge-co.com Visit my website at www.lodge-co.com and learn more about my firm.
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Biden wants a stimulus plan of $1.9 trillion. Temporary band aid for about 3 weeks and a whole bunch of pork to things not even involving Covid. He wants a $15 minimum wage for some parts of the country where living is much lower then New York and California. That $15 goes up to $18 once you add in Workers Compensation, more taxes taken out, and other items associated with that wage. Wages go up, cost of goods and services go up to you and me. Inflation is created. Biden wants to open up the boarders during a pandemic. He puts restrictions of travel on Europe but allows undocumented aliens to cross the boarder with no medical check. Just plain stupid. Right now in California hospitals are full with people from across the boarder to get medical care because of Covid. Strain on our economy, yes. Strain on our medical systems, yes. Smart idea, NO. Biden cust jobs in the oil industry, that employes truckers, welders, manual labor, construction workers, crain operators, and the list goes on. Killing jobs, not very smart. Higher taxes on businesses, jobs lost. So after we talk about all this there is no confidence on what Biden is doing to the economy in just a few days on the job. $1.9 trillion that you and I have to pay for. That $1,400 stimulus check, we have to pay for with taxes. Everything that Biden is doing falls back on us, the American taxpayer. Here is a suggestion, leave the economy to us Americans. Let us open our businesses again, create jobs, create new products and services, Government and Wallstreet do no know how to create a good economy, they think too short term. A change in government has to happen before the economy goes way out of control.
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Gavin Newsom, the gov of California has done so much damage to the people of California. It is time to take him out of office before he does greater damage. Open up business, the churches, the schools, by eliminating Newsom from office. Your support is needed and we have to get this done. Go to www.recallgavin2020.com Download the petition and send it in as quickly as possible. California needs change and a cleanup of the state. Support the recall of Gavin Newsom.
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Sorry about my voice this morning, I am about to loose it. Listen, the Biden economic plan stinks to high heaven. Why, because there is none. Green new deal jobs will never happen. It takes a long time to change over completely to a new system, so those jobs he thinks he will generate are way down the line, many years. Higher taxes will send jobs off shore again. Companies are already moving their capital off shore. The $15 minimum wage, wrong time to even think about it, business, especially small business can't afford it. That $15 to a business makes taxes, workers compensation, and everything else go up for the employer. That $15 turns into $18. The shutting down the pipeline has cut jobs in several states already, no new jobs are being created by the Biden administration. They state green new deal jobs will replace them but that is many years down the road. Politicians double talk on jobs when they don't even know what they are talking about. States have been damaged by bad leadership in those states, locking down people and businesses destroys a state in many areas beside economic. States that let BLM and ANTIFA destroys cities and destroying homes and businesses lays at their feet, not the rest of America. That was their bad decisions that destroyed many peoples lives, and it is still going on and the President and the Congress say nothing or do nothing. Instead the government hides behind fences that are patrolled by the National Guard. Nancy Pelosi calls people the enemy within. Unity? No, hate and divide. So this podcasts talks about a bad Biden economic plan and for you and Americans to plan your own financial strength because once again the Government is going to fail us with bad economics.
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So I got up early to talk with a client and found out it isn't until next weekend, so you get the tax lecture I was going to give. Over the past week I have received emails asking about their hobby and how that income would affect their social security or disability. I say hobby because the questions has got to be is your activity going to be a business or a hobby - per the IRS. If your business claims a net loss for too many years, or fails to meet other requirements, the IRS may classify it as a hobby, which would prevent you from claiming a loss related to the business.
So let's talk about hobby vs. business. If the IRS classifies your business as a hobby, you'll have to prove that you had a valid profit motive if you want to claim those deductions.
The IRS expects that if you start a business, you intend to make money at it. If you don't, your business might be a hobby. To determine if your business is a hobby, the IRS looks at numerous factors, including the following:
- Do you put in the necessary time and effort to turn a profit?
- Have you made a profit in this activity in the past, or can you expect to make one in the future?
- Do you have the necessary knowledge to succeed in this field?
- Do you depend on income from this activity?
- Are your losses beyond your control?
These are the questions the IRS will ask as they look at your business that you are claiming on your Schedule C for business or profession.
Now there are consequences of hobby classification. Generally, the IRS classifies your business as a hobby, it won't allow you to deduct ANY expenses or take any loss of it on your tax return. But you will have to claim the income and that will affect your tax return. Hobby income is not subject to self employment taxes. It is just classified as income to you.
This tax season please take a look at your business and it's losses. Make sure you have classified your business correctly so you are not facing potential penalties and interest.
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I am addicted to Youtube. I have been watching the channel of Kylie Flavell who is from Australia but lives in Tuscany Italy. However she travels around the world and one of your travels was to and through Iran. Look her up on Youtube, she has a great channel. In her travel to Iran there was a moment where she sat down with an Iranian women who started a business to help the travel industry and created a payment processing system to go around the sanctions that has stopped the flow of money and travel. But she made a statement that has stuck with me, so much that I posted on social media this morning. Let me share her statement, "Sometimes there are things in our way but that doesn't mean we can't do anything".
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Business advice is everywhere. You find people selling you books and seminars on it, but have never built anything themselves. I would never go to a plumber for tax advice? If you are going to build something find people who can advice you that have the experience in building a business. Experience counts.
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I love small businesses, I say that a lot because I believe in small business. I love hearing the stories that small business tells me about their business life and experience. These are the same people who are sponsoring your little leagues, football, baseball, football organizations. They are the ones who volunteer their time to help their communities. But Government through the covid virus has killed off small business. No one in this nation should have been locked down. No one should have lost their job. No business should have been forced out of business, over 100,000 small businesses are gone. All of this done by both Democrat's and Republicans. Lockdowns have failed. Politicians have failed. Both political parties have failed this nation to make it better, stronger, self determined to create more business. Forget the PPP tax money, just let businesses be businesses. We know what to do to rebuild our businesses, when government gets involved it gets worse. Stimulus is not what businesses need, they need to reopen, Americans need to start support these businesses. Business needs to support business, the big guys should be lending a helping hand to small business. Government is worthless because their politics blocks the views on what is really going on. Politicians have never created a job or tried to run a business. During the lockdowns they still got their paycheck. They still got their pensions funded. Business were shut down. Do I have any good opinion on politicians or government? No, sorry. I have seen too much failure because politics got involved. But I believe in small businesses.
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Many of you start a company but forget about assigning roles in the business. You put in money but forget how much. You gave responsibilities but never documented it in your minutes of the business. You get to the point where either you just want to leave because you are retiring or the relationship with your business partner(s) have gone back. We will discuss this in today's podcast. Dissolving your business relationship through mediation.
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The biggest stress in marriage is financial. Debt is a heavy burden to work on together, especially when jobs have been lost and finances are down to almost nothing. When you become married there are going to be a whole bunch of things thrown at you. Get your financial lives in order before standing in front of the Minister to say "I Do". The top heavy duty issues marriages have are:
Infidelity, sexual differences, values and beliefs, life stages, traumatic situations, stress, boredom, jealousy, trying to change each other, communication problems, lack of attention, financial issues, lack of appreciation, technology and social media, trust issues, selfish behavior, anger issues, keeping score, lying, unrealistic expectations. My fingers are tired just typing all these issues. That is a whole bucket load of problems that can pop up. Get your finances in order before marriage because you have a whole bunch more issues on a list. Get your finances in order and have a plan to resolve the financial issues before marriage and you will be better off. Address the financial baggage so it doesn't become a burden on the marriage.
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This week we saw online investment traders stop trading of certain stocks and some of the story involves hedge funds and their bet against these stocks. The question that we are asking is why was the stock trading stopped on certain stocks? Was there a liquidity problem? Was there an issue that hedge funds were losing money on their bets in the market? And who gave the investment houses the right to stop the trades, the legal question is was there a criminal action not in compliance with investment rules, namely the SEC? Does an investment house have the legal standing to stop trades? The actions strongly appear to be unethical decision making based on others unethical needs. Don't get the Whitehouse or Congress involved. This responsibility lays on the steps of the SEC, rules and regulations are already in place so we need to focus on the rule of law. Consumers should lean on the SEC to react to the needs of these issues that affect the censorship of investments. The problem is if we let social media to censor Americans on freedom of speech and shutting down other Americans views based on politics. So should we practice the same when investment houses stop trades based on certain stocks that are not in line with hedge funds. Censorship runs both ways and the rule of law is ignored. We as consumers have the right to demand ethics in business and we should be demanding it louder and stronger, even to the point of taking legal action.
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Social changes and political events have an affect on our economy. The handling of the pandemic in your local economy affects the national economy. The pandemic caused businesses and shut down, some failed, and unemployment increased and continues to increase. The new President has no economic plan for the United States, however we do know he wants to raise taxes on ALL Americans, he wants to raise the minimum wage to $15 an hour when businesses are trying to survive. The list of decisions being made in the Whitehouse has a huge economic impact on all of us. The problem is that during the election we did not hear one word from Biden on any type of economic plan for America, except higher taxes. We were left out to dry and now that he is in the Whitehouse he is being advised by people who have never created a job in their life. The President has never created a job or run a company to know what happens in businesses when government gets involved. Thus, elections of economic and tax consequences on all Americans. We all want to see Presidents have success, but when a new President begins killing jobs and the economy in the first week of his job we know that more trouble is on the way. Buckle up, create your rainy day accounts because storms are on their way because of a political agenda. But you can make it through by just being better at your finances then the government is. Why would we even take any advice from a Government that is so heavy with debt that it doesn't care and creates more debt. That is not how we run our personal lives. But the government takes our tax dollars and eats it up so fast that they can't keep their spending under control. They keep signing on the debt dotted line without even giving one thought to how Americans can handle this added debt. It's not their money so they don't care. We do, we care in our own personal financial lives, so we act smarter then a mad government running the country politically and not what the needs are for the American people.
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Twitters fact checking and censorship is no longer American it is a communist political attack on America's freedom of speech and it has to be stopped. Freedom of information, speech and the press is firmly rooted in the structures of modern western democratic thought. However, we have a political party in the United States that wants to shut down Americans, we have a media that endorses censorship, and we have companies trying to shut down other companies based on politics. Look at their attack and censorship on the owner of MyPillow.com, they are trying to drive him out of business based on his political opinions and views. This is unethical and wrong and is in violation of the constitution. Even the UN Declaration of Human Rights adopted by the UN general assembly in 1948 declares "Everyone has the right to freedom of opinion and expression; this right includes freedom to hold opinion without interference and to seek, receive and impart information and ideas through any media and regardless of frontiers. Twitter has even violated the rights set out in their declaration of human rights. Twitter has abandoned the United States constitution and has attack people and companies on their opinions and speech, it went against Twitters own political agenda. This is not Americanism, it is communism. It isn't even a capitalist view, it is a communist view to shut people out of talking about their own political opinion.
In a communist society, the individual's best interests are indistinguishable from the society's best interest. Thus, the idea of an individual freedom in incompatible with a communist ideology. And that is now the strategy of Twitter, Facebook and the media of this nation. Shut down people voice and opinion and the only voice is a party voice. Will we get any protection from the Congress and the Senate, the answer is NO. Will we get any help from the Whitehouse, the answer is NO. They do not want to hear our opinion on how the country should be run, they want us shut down. They want democracy taken away and replaced with the views of a political party. This is where we are today.
Americans have got to protect our freedom of speech, once that goes the whole constitution will go. Probably, by me doing this podcast my rights will be taken away by Twitter and Facebook. As an American I have to speak out, I will try my hardest to protect my rights under the law. Not political law, the legal law of the constitution. I want to hear from you on the question, how do we fight back against Twitter and Facebook? Give me your views. Send me your thoughts by texting me at 818.252.5682 or send me an email to info@lodge-co.com
All of us have to work together to stop this unethical act of censorship of Americans. Ethics must be our focus to stop this illegal act. Government will not protect us.
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Elections have consequences on our small business. Yesterday I decided to treat myself with afternoon tea. I was watching Youtube and saw a vlog on Americans having afternoon tea in London. Now, if you have never been to an afternoon tea with all the good stuff that comes with the tea, go out and try it. So I found a local place in Palm Beach that does afternoon tea. However, when I got there I was the only one there. Restaurants and bars, and the tea room was empty. That made me so sad because I know how businesses have really struggled through this covid mess. I love small businesses and I want to see them survive. But if government keeps trying to shut them down and tax them at higher rates, as Biden wants to do, we have a problem. Small businesses have a razor thin profit margin and some are just trying to keep their doors open. We all need to do more of our business in local small businesses. Help me out by supporting those business owners that need our help. Government will never help business. If Biden tells you help is on the way, no more red tape and higher taxes are on it's way. Government is not the answer to keep our communities alive, our small businesses going.
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Every single day we hear hate being spouted out by so many people. We sit at our computers and we let people have it with hate. Attack. Tear down. Never building people up. We sit there on our cell phones and let people have it with words of hate. It is non-stop. We are responsible for the words that we use. Listen before you talk. Think before you talk. If you are filled with hate, remain silent. If you are using the hate that you hear from government officials and in the media to spin more hate against people - remain silent. Lashing out at people is worthless and creates no unity. Do not believe in those that preach unity but goes in the opposite direction towards division. Hate divides and our words divide, we are responsible for those words. God gave us the ability to make our own choices in life, in our words and actions. To hate is your choice. To push hate in words is your choice. Your words will always live on. You are responsible for choosing to hate. We have a new week ahead of us. Let's choose to listen and to think about the words before we say it out of our mouths or type in social media, or even text. Focus on your words. If it is hateful - remain silent and rethink your words. Hate is your choice.
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As of yesterday, Joe Biden killed off jobs and business by his executive orders. His economic plan on the first two days are political promises being kept to his political base and not good sense policies to create more jobs. On a day where over 900,000 people filed for unemployment benefits he decides to play politics and kill off more jobs. Here is the deal, and I have been saying this now for months, we have to be conservatives financial managers of our personal finance lives and our business lives. We focus on paying down our debt and putting money away into a contingency fund for that rainy day, or as Biden likes to call it - The Dark Winter. By the way that term is not a very positive statement as to where he is going to lead us as a nation. You and I can however work on our personal financial affairs over the next four years. Focus on your revenue, expenses, and cash savings you can create.
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I got an E-mail this morning from IHeartRadio listing the nominations for the 2021 podcast awards. I wasn't even close to the list. I didn't even know there was an award. Now I know. :-)
As a business and family mediator I listen to a lot of disputes. Some so heated that you can tell by their eyes they want to kill the other side. Others just want to get to a resolution. The most successful mediations are those who have it in their heart to resolve an issue. The key to their success is that they listen, are able to come with options and opportunity to resolve the problem. But it was done by listening. If you want to resolve a dispute you have to listen. Most of the time you will find that the other sides issues is your issue, those are easier to resolve. You have to listen because you begin your day in some sort of negotiation. Listen.
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We have a new President today and a new administration. Even if we don't like the Presidents that get elected we still have to have respect for the office of the United States. However, in those things we don't agree on we still have the ability to fight for what we believe in. Censorship will never silence the voice of Americans. We are too smart for that. All of our voices will still be held and we will make sure companies are accountable for corrupting their businesses with politics. Politics always divide and in business you don't want division where you offend your employees and the consumers who buy their goods and services. We all have a voice and we will always use our voice because we are - Americans. I thank the Trumps for the service to the United States and the accomplishments they achieved. To the new President, I will respect you as a President but I will fight you on anything that will harm the United States. If you speak of unity of the country but allow censorship, then you will be held accountable. If you continue to allow Congress to hate America then you will be held accountable. If you enforce policies on business that harms them even greater then Covid, you will be held accountable. If you turn yourself away from corruption and look the other way, you will be held accountable. Ethics in America has got to be addressed in our own personal lives, our business lives and in politics. However, America moves forward, with a new President, and a new voice that will hold government and business accountable for unethical attacks on Americans.
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Companies are now pulling their business from other businesses who do not agree with their political views. Bed Bath and Beyond and Kohls pulled the account of MyPillow.com. Just because the owner of the company support the President. I hate boycotts, but now in this new world of political hate I have to pull my business from companies who make business decisions based on politics, you are no longer a viable company. I no longer want to do business with you. Your actions are unethical and destructive to American lives. You divide the company even greater. You are no longer a ethical or viable company to do business with. Enough of this type of culture in the United States. So from now on if a company becomes political - you no longer have any future business with me. Enough
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The corruption and hate is too large for us to attack to make a change in our nations capital. However, we can create change in our communities by working together. It means forgiving and putting political sides to the side. Once politics get involved in anything - nothing gets done. The corruption of politics always tears down good work. Their hate for the American people has grown so bad that they will destroy themselves. So when you are thinking about your community you are no longer a Democrat or a Republican, instead you are a community joined together with no political agenda. Once you build on working together a whole community will become stronger. And that is the direction of a new America with the passion of the needs of the community. That is unity. Never count on politicians to create unity, they view of unity is only one sided where they expect you to do as they do. That is not unity that is division. When they shut off your freedom of speech and want to censor you, that is not even close to unity, that is division and hate. Hate in politics, as we see it now, will never accomplish anything. However, you and I can do great things together as non-political Americans.
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CONFLICT -
In businesses, in the United States, employees spend 2.1hours per week involved with conflict, which amounts to approximately $359 billion in paid hours (based on an average hourly earnings of $17.95), or the equivalent of 385 million workind days. Conflict is costly to businesses.
According to the report "Workplace Conflict and How Businesses Can Harness It to Thrive," the following statistics demonstrate how pervasive conflict is in the workplace:
- 85 percent of employees deal with conflict on some level
- 29 percent of employees deal with it almost constantly
- 34 percent of conflict occurs among front-line employeees
- 12 percent of employees say they frequently witness conflict among the senior team
- 49 percent of conflict is a result of personality clashes and "warring egos"
- 34 percent of conflict is caused by stress in the workplace
- 33 percent of conflict is caused by heavy workloads
-27 percent of employees have witnessed conflicts lead to personal attacks
- 25 percent of employees have seen conflict result in sickness or absence
- 9 percent have seen workplace conflict cause a project to fail
If you have conflict, resolve it quickly. Bring in a 3rd party mediator to work with the conflicting individuals or issues that is hurting the company.
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Political activism where it hurts the consumer, investors and the employees in a company creates a deep conflict that some companies never pull out of. If you look at Twitter, Facebook, Apple, Amazon who took political activism too far and created censorship of people who did not believe as they did, made the companies and their leaders hated by the American people. Once a company begins to hate people and their ideas has stepped over the line of ethics and have become unethical entities. Not viable companies, but entities of hate. That was never their role as CEO, to push a political agenda. They have pushed investors, consumers and customers, some employees to the side for their own political agenda. Hateful politics is never ethical. Politics is never ethical. The biggest problem is that Karma is a bitch, what goes around, comes arround. Politics always have karma. Take a political position on other people and it will always come back to bite you - and the investors of that company. Board of Directors have got to do something before it goes bad for the company. Change out your leaders before they do damage to your company. This is a crisis in America when companies take action against other Americans just because of politics. Ethics is the number one priority of every company and to act ethically in all decision making processes. Boards need to curb this political activism before the company goes over the edge and governments and courts get involved. Be an ethical company, not a politically driven one.
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Joe Biden wants to create a $15 minimum wage increase. Now small businesses have a razor edge margin. Right now small business has been hit hard by Covid, no government hand out is going to help small business. They need to get back to business and open their doors. However, to increase small business costs is not the right time. Look at teh bigger business picture, an increase in wages also increases payroll taxes, workers compensation insurance, and a whole bunch of of other costs. That $15 and hour goes up to $18 an hour with all of the other costs. The highest cost of any business is salaries and wages, to any business in the United State and around the world it's the same story. You have to look at the entire picture of hourly wages and how it affect businesses with razor thin margins. Now it not the right time to talk about a higher minimum wage.
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This morning I was looking at the salary of members of Congress and the Senate - $174,000. So Congress spent most of their time over the last four years to destroy a President and hate America. What did we get for our $174,000? Nothing but hate and distraction. No work was done for the American people.
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Blacklisting is unethical and discriminatory. The legal term of a blacklist is a list of individuals or organizations designated for special discrimination or boycott, also to put a person or organization on such a list. So when companies put people on lists that they don't like their political beliefs they blacklist them, they discriminate against them. These are the same people who shouted about discrimination, that said intolerance was bad. Created laws against it. Put in employee handbooks about the subjects. However, they failed to think about political discrimination. Political hate. Workplace conflicts because of political discrimination. Corporations putting people who use to work for someone else that they hated, put on blacklists and pushing discrimination by other companies against these former employees. But, when politicians and corporations blacklist they say it is ok, they want to get back at their enemies. So they push all the laws to the side on discrimination. They put the constitution to the side and don't follow the laws but instead put a politician agenda to override the laws. Blacklisting is evil and the worse kind of unethical behavior. It is time to call politicians out on their behavior of hate and to stop corporations from creating blacklists of political hate on individuals in this nation.
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When business and politics are allowed in business you are no longer an ethical company. You are no longer ethically sound. You have allowed the unethical practice of politics corrupt your business ethics. Politics in business creates conflict between so many different groups of people. Conflict between employees. Conflict between consumers and customer. Conflict within communities that they are in. Politics in business never works, conflict is a very costly event in businesses. If you don't understand that then you really should not be running a company. Boards of companies need to be asking the questions on how their companies ethics policies deal with politics. Conflict creates a money loosing situation within companies. The conflict may be between two people with opposing views, however it affect everyone in the team and productivity decreases and money is lost. Consumers see unethical practices of companies trying to shut down freedom of speech based on a political agenda. The consumer begins to ask the question is this company is a viable business anymore? Is it a politically driven company or a profit driven company? The word boycott is being used more and more everyday and it too can do a lot of damage to communities and businesses. Boycott is an evil word but sometimes Americans just get fed up and start doing it. Companies stock value goes down - because of political agendas that are being pushed by companies onto their consumers and vendors. Ethical? No very unethical.
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Ethics in business is vital. However, when politics creeps in it corrupt your business ethics. Boards of major corporations need to reign in politics and ethics in the corporations. Once you start pushing your political agenda onto your consumers it will come back to bite you. Karma is a bitch and it comes back to bite you very hard. What you push around politically as a business will come back and bite you hard. It is also bad for the investors when you as a business is focused on a political agenda instead of the full needs as a business. Politics is never ethical. The word ethics is never a priority or even a fact in politics. That is the truth. Businesses need to get out of politics before they do greater harm to democracy. Money from businesses corrupt politics even more.
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As consumers we have to understand ethics. The question we should be asking ourselves now is if Facebook, Google, Twitter and Apple are ethical in pushing their political agenda onto their consumers. Social media sites have decided to shut down speech through their venue of people who do not agree with their companies political agenda. They have decided, unethically, to shut down freedom of speech. They are making the decision on what is right to say, you don't matter. Ethics is very important, political agenda's in business is not ethical. It is a strange reaction when companies attack the consumer who put them in business - unethically. Businesses do not have the right to tell you how to feel and think politically. That is not their responsibility. The social media giants have over stepped the boundary of business ethics and have forced their opinions and views on you, on me. We have to examine our relationships with unethical companies and look at the damage that they have done. It is that time right now.
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Politics is evil. Those involved have become the message of hate and not of hope. Americans look at this chaos in our nations capital and we see danger. Danger to our constitutional rights. Danger to our nation because hate has taken over and there is a crisis in our nation. Not one single word in Washington DC is not about what their plans are for the American people to help them, instead they are fighting in the isles of Congress, calling each other names, calling for resignations, and shouting hate with every single word.
The Chinese word for crisis is made up of two words - Danger and Opportunity. They see a crisis as an opportunity at the same time looking at any danger there may be. You and I can look at this crisis and take charge of the opportunities that are out there to create change, but it starts within our own communities. This crisis is full of opportunities and it is up to you and me to clean things up. Put the politics to the side and look at the issues that everyone can work on and get it done. That is our opportunity to unite. Government will never unite us, their goal is to divide us for their own political use to build their own power. Nothing that they do is for the people. So, you and I have got to find the opportunity to help our nation, we do not believe in divide. Turn off the hate from the politicians and the media. It's time to shut down the media and start working on the opportunities before us. Let's do it.
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As the Capital came back last night into session, after being attacked by anarchists', members of Congress were calling each other names and there was almost a heated physical fight on the floor of Congress. This hate does not represent the American people. When Congress can't unite after being attacked and a person killed, there is too much hate and irresponsible actions and words from members of Congress - a nation is in trouble. However, that does not represent the American people, Democrats and Republican's. We all are lovers of this great nation, but hate from Congress has killed any respect for each other, even when you disagree politically. Hate has been driven from people at the top. It is up to Americans to work together, ignore the stupidity of hate, and work within our communities and build up. Antifa and BLM has done too much damage to this nation and yet members of Congress remained silent and did nothing. They endorsed the actions of hate. They did nothing to stop the violence - until it came to their home in Congress. To this day you will not condemn the violence this nation has experienced. Churches were burnt and Congress said nothing. Businesses were being looted and burned and Congress said nothing. Americans were attacked physically and Congress said nothing. Congress did nothing to support the rule of law and now our Capital has been attacked by anarchists and you will do nothing. Americans, it is up to us to rebuild our nation from our communities on up, but it starts with our own communities that we live in. Americans can always rebuild, we do it with tornados, hurricanes, floods, and through Covid. We rebuild together, Government will never do it for Americans. When government gets involved they make it worse. When Americans work at it they make our nation stronger. I want to hear about your ideas, not political ideas, but real ideas that can make your community stronger. Send me your ideas to 818.252.5682 or to info@lodge-co.com www.lodge-co.com
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What has happened in our nation's capital is not America. The violence by ANTIFA and BLM is not America. Members of congress were silent during this violence. No one called for the enforcement of the rule of law. You denied there was violence untill it hit your house at the capital. This violence today was endorsed by you because you were silent and ignored the anarchy and violence. You are responsible. And the American people are frustrated and angry at their government and you in government act surprised.
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Elections have tax consequences and they affect all of us big time. Never believe a politician that says they will only tax the rich, it is always a lie. Politicians view rich as you and me. A good example of bad tax policies is California and New York. They are good tax case study on how taxes can destroy a state. Raising taxes has never improved the quality of life of Americans, instead it takes away our cash flow where we need it most for our families. Instead taxes get raised and more money is mismanaged by politicians. Our vote matters when it comes to our financial affairs and our businesses being able to survive. California businesses are about out of business or leaving the state. Big companies are leaving to find better tax homes for the businesses. California tax revenue goes down and their biggest debt, employee pension plans, keep going up. And Californian's pay for the retirement plans of California government employees. That is California's biggest debt and it could bankrupt the state because of loss of revenue with companies and individuals moving out of the state. It will get worse. Our vote at election time has tax consequences and we have got to vote better and remove those who only talk about raising taxes - which is all of the Assembly and Senate in California. Other states are now posed to have the same problem and as of today Georgia is one of them.
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Many countries have various methods of funding business needs through their local business communities. Some have been common practices for centuries and have been working well. Some of these private practices are very interesting because they work locally, built on trust and knowing each other. Now everything isn't perfect but they are regulated from within, government is not involved one bit, and that is why it works. When government gets involved everything goes wrong, debt goes up, uncooperative in working with or helping business. However, community self regulated programs with groups of people in the community works. In this podcast I cover a practice that has worked in Asia and has come over and is practiced in the Asian communities in the United States. And it is still working. If you know of what other countries do in their communities to help their businesses, Not government programs but local programs that the local people practice to help each others out. Send me a text at 818.252.5682 or and email at info@lodge-co.com www.lodge-co.com
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I moved out of California and went to Florida. Best decision for me and my business. I had planned to move out several years ago, I saw the tea leaves. In 2019 I fully moved out of California and I am happy with my move. Taxes, homelessness, business compliance, and everything else was hammering me by remaining in California. I am one of those who can do my work anywhere in the world. So to find a place that was easier to live was my responsibility to make, and I did. I love California but the politics in California has destroyed a state and created California refugees going to other states. We were driven out by politicians that did not care about me and other Californians, their whole focus was on how much money they can squeeze out of taxpayers. Will you move out of California, I would like to hear from you.
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Every business needs to have an ethics policy. From the top to the bottom, everyone should understand what is expected of them in ethics in the company. I hear a lot of business mediation sessions and the biggest issue that comes up is unethical behavior or relationships within companies. Is it because we see so much unethical behavior in Government that we say it is ok for us to act unethically? I am beginning to think so. Just one back unethical behavior can destroy the reputation of a business or an individual. That unethical behavior kills business. If your business doesn't have an ethics statement of policy, get one written and everyone sign off on it.
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To preface my remarks on reporting cryptocurrency on your tax returns I have to say - I hate cypto. It is not regulated but still has to be reported as a "Taxable Event". It is a reportable transaction to the Internal Revenue Services and to states that have rules on reporting Crypto. This podcast covers what needs to be reported and how. If you have any questions, send me a text to 818.252.5682 or send me an email to mlodge@lodge-co.com
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This is the last day of the year and we are entering a new year. Put the past behind and we now focus on a new year - Possibilities and Potentiality.
HAPPY NEW YEAR AND HELLO 2021
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At the beginning of 2020 the United States was in a good state. But then a virus came along and the nation went into a panic based on bad government decisions. What have we learned and what are we going to apply to 2021? It is not up to Government to rebuild what we have lost, it is up to us.
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Ok, your not dummies, but you probably don't know what you should put in your income statements or how to read your prepared financial statements. Remember you financial statements tell the story of your company and if you are unable to tell that story - you are in trouble. It's time you get to know your financials, income and expenses. If you need help in understanding the financial statement process, I offer a 60 minute business advisory session for us to go over your questions and concerns. www.lodge-co.com and click on 60 Minute Business Advice tab. You can also do it on www.buymeacoffee.com/MichaelLodge
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If you are working for Uber, Lift, and other gig companies, you receive a 1099-Misc and you a business. Which means you will file a Schedule C with your tax returns and list your income and the expenses that go against them. Now some of these companies they are paying a portion of your insurance plan, some deduct it from your payments, so it becomes an expense. Then you have to cover part of your insurance through your personal insurance. You need to make sure you understand who and how the insurance is being covered while you are conducting your gig business. And you need to understand the state requirements that you are living in, there may be specific rules. Your operating a small business and you need to think of it as such. Yes your getting paid but your responsibility does not end there. You are running a business.
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Final few days of 2020, a bust year where everything went wrong. Politics, health, cities, everything went wrong. However, looking at 2021 we have a lot of possibilities to make our communities even better by our involvement. We have so many options to help our communities. We can't change the nation or the world, but we can work together to make our communities better. 2021 is up to us, not government. Government has failed us, but you and I can do so much to make our own communities better. This podcast is about trying to make our lives and communities better - by getting involved. To make a difference - you have to get involved.
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The President is 100% right in veto of this spending bill designed by Nancy Pelosi and Mitch McConnell. Two of the biggest fools in spending of the American people's tax dollars to places far away from America and does nothing for the American people. McConnell and Pelosi are fools and the weak politicians are following them and going over the cliffs to the destruction of the American people. Not one dollar to the American small business, and $600 to each American. But the following organizations and countries get trillions.
DOMESTIC FUNDING
Kennedy Center - $26,400,000
Smithsonian - $1,000,000,000
National Art Gallery - $154,000,000
National Art & Humanities - $167,000,000
W. Wilson Center - $14,000,000
FOREIGN COUNTRIES
Egypt - $1,300,000,000
Sudan - $700,000,000
Ukraine - $453,000,000
Isreal - $500,000,000
Napal - $130,000,000
Burma - $135,000,000
Cambodia - $85,500,000
Pakistan - $25,000,000
Asia R.I.A. - $1,400,000,000
AMERICAN PEOPLE - $600
Remember Nancy Pelosi said in the last stimulus package that $1,200 was crumbs. And now she turns around, with the Republicans help, give the American people a grain of sand of $600. But Pakistan gets $25,000,000 to do gender studies. The American small business - $zero dollars. The restaurants who have been shut down. Americans, we have got to get our act together and hold these politicians accountable on their votes that do nothing for the American people. Start your calling to your Senator and members of Congress today and let them know we are tired of being ripped off. They work for us, we don't work for them, and they had better listen to us - the American people.
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Final weeks of 2020 and you have some stuff relating to your personal finances and taxes to get done. Listen to this podcast and get ready to be a good financial steward.
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All of us have a social media account. Some of you politically are on the right and some on the left. However, a lot of people jumped from twitter to Parler, Facebook to MeWe. We all jumped because many Americans felt they were being censored and wanted to get into a social media venue that has free speech. However, free speech does not give you the right to spreak nonsense. I see it on Twitter and Parler. People make these big statements with no proof. Or people showing their guns and stating they are ready to fight. It is both on the left and right politically. You and I who are on social media have got to be more ethical in what we are saying. If you have no proof or backup, stop, don't publish it. Right now on social media and mainstream media we have no pure news, it is all mush. A bunch of nonsense. We as social media junkies have to use ethics in what we are saying and we need to challenge the nonsense being spouted out there. Challenge to get to the truth. Ethics is a part of our lives in everything, and if we are not practicing ethics on social media then at some point it will come back to bite us. I am going to tell you right now, when I see something that is just a statement with no facts from you - I will challenge you.
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In all my years (which are way too many ow) I have learned that once a word leaves our mouth, it can never be taken back. No sorry, no apology in the world, will make that word go away. It live on in our human life of thoughts. It doesn't mean we can't forgive or be forgiven, but it does mean that one single word or whole sentences of words, can't be tak back. Word of hate, anger, spitefulness, live on and on. With that come mistrust from the person you said it to. Unethical words of hate never builds anything, except it builds more hate. Ethical words define us, unethical words ends relationships in business and in life. Think about your words, are you being ethical in your words? Are you building or tearing down?
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Throughout our lives, our business life, we have either acted unethical or had people act unethical against us. We have been affected by unethical behavior around us. We see unethical behavior by politicians, the media, or by those we are doing business with. However, that does not give us the license to be a unethical person. Our unethical behavior affects those around us in some way. And sometimes it hurts people that have experienced our unethical behavior.. This entire week I am going to be talking about ethics and how we need to approach our life, personal and business, ethically. Ethically thinking is not that hard, it is the decision making process between right and wrong.
If you are ethically sound, you will make it through anything. Ethics is a practice and not just a belief. You must work at it every single day of your life in all that you do.
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If you like what I do please buy me a coffee and support my work. Thank you! If you like what I do, please support me by buying me a coffee. Thanks! https://www.buymeacoffee.com/MichaelLodge
If you like what I do, please support me by buying me a coffee. Thanks! https://www.buymeacoffee.com/MichaelLodge
This past week Oracle, a very large employer in California, announced they are leaving California to Austin, Texas. Oracle, HP, Tesla all have moved to Texas, a very business friendly state. Now those of you who work for a big company, their boards of directors are meeting and asking the question - why are we still in California and should we move. Expect more announcements. The sad thing is that California does not care these companies, and the high paying jobs they employ, are leaving. California just doesn't care. By them leaving the tax revenues the state and local government use to have are gone, so Californians now have to pick up the costs by getting taxed higher by the state. Ask yourself, why are you still there? If you are going to stay there fight for Californians, but if you are not going to fight and want a better life - leave But if you stay in California you will get taxed higher in California. California has now become a socialist failure.
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Several governors across the United States have subjected Americans to lockdown - no scientific data to support the lock down, the just do it. Gavin Newsom took millions of PPP for his businesses he owns, but drives businesses in California to lockdown and go out of business. If you think these politicians want to help small businesses you are nuts. All that they care about is their political power, contributions and the smell of money going into their bank accounts. Politicians only focus is on them, not you. So if you do not defy government you will loose your ability to live freely. Defy for your freedom and ability to keep your businesses alive. Don't let politicians kill your business. Defy
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Every business knows that taxes are a significant expense for most businesses. But 2020 isn't a typical year, and the tax rules for this year provide opportunities to turn the tables on the government and get money back. Congress and the IRS have created new tax breaks to help small businesses deal with the economic fallout of Covid-19. On this podcast we are going to talk about those tax changes for business.
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I do offer 60 minutes business advisory service if you have questions. You can go to www.lodge-co.com and click on 60 Minute Business Advice tab.
A new survey of small businesses was released on Tuesday by the National Federation of Independend Business shows that small business optimism fell 2.6 points in November. Dragged down by lowered expectations for economic improvement in the near-term future. We don't know what Biden's economic plan for America is, except to raise taxes. We don't know how Covid is going to play a part in our businesses for 2021. We know we are being threatened by more lockdowns. We don't know what the results are going to be in Georgia with the runoff of two senators that could mean the Senate could go Democratic and that drives the nail in the tax increase coffin for businesses. If the Senate is kept by the Republicans we then have a buffer of tax safety. Once again, just as in the Obama administration, businesses are on pause not knowing what to expect. Confidence slides through bad leadership.
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It is so important for all of us (including me) to plan for 2021. I am providing you a free budgeting excel plan for you to use to plan for 2021. You just need to go to my website at www.lodge-co.com and click on the tab that says "60 Minute Business Advice" and then click on the Personal Budge button. It is free, you can change it if you know excel, tweak it, but USE IT. We have to be conservative in running our personal finances for 2021.
https://www.lodge-co.com/60minutebusinessadvice.html
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No nation can go forward free through a corrupt election. Corruption destroys your honest vote. It wipes your vote out. Corruption is backed by corrupt people in politics and those who conduct the fraud, as well as outside enemies. When those who are guilty of the fraud are not stoppe then our nation has been compromised and the people, you and me, must stop government and REVOTE.
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Gavin Newsom has announced California has locked down again. No science behind his decision in stead it is pure political. My question to Californians, are you going to allow this destructive behavior again? Either leave California or fight back. You have two choices. If you stay it will destroy your business, are you going to sit there and take it? Again and again? You have a choice to leave the state to a business friendly state. Or you can fight for your rights? You have a choice and you need to make it. If you stay your taxes are going to go up. If you own a business this is a big deal. Under lockdown you loose business. 60% of small business went out of business under the last lockdown as of the data published in September 2020. So I ask you again in California - are you going to let Gavin Newsom destroy small businesses? Either Stand up, defy, fight back - or leave.
If there are attorneys out in California and New York, please do some pro bono work for small business fighting back, they need your help. Let me know who you are and I will direct small businesses to you.
If you are a small business in California and NY that are being attacked by government, shutting down your business - tell me your story and I will get it out there on my podcast and blog. If an attorney doing pro bono work for small businesses and I direct you to them. But tell me your story. I promise to get every story out there. Send me your story to info@lodge-co.com
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TELL ME YOUR BUSINESS STORY - info@lodge-co.com
HP headquarters have announced they are moving out of California and heading to Texas. That is a big deal because HP was the very first technology company to start in California way before even I was born. They set the road for technology to grow and now California is chasing them out. When taxes and the cost of doing business gets to oppressive on businesses, they move. They go to a state that is tax and business friendly. Companies who have moved from California to Texas has saved up to 32% their first year in operation in Texas. And less state compliance issues then there is in California. So the big question is how long can California last if businesses keep leaving their state? And when will Californians say enough and start making changes? Or do both groups even care anymore? The next question are we going to let it happen to the rest of America? Do we care? It's up to us to take back our nation because government has failed us greatly.
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Over the past few days I have been listening to the testimony of election volunteer and workers telling their story on the unethical practices of those in government as they handled government election data. It is apparent that government is now controlled by politics and power, the American people and their rights to vote doesn't matter. Data has been manipulated, deleted, added to, created by various means, to get the election results of unethical government works and those organizations they are members of or who support them. We have seen, and continue to see, bad data in the covid numbers. But the data has been manipulated to control a free people. The election data has been corrupted by a coordinated effort to manipulate an election. We have found that our election data is controlled by a foreign corporation where our data is distributed to foreign countries to report the election. The controls on how our election data is corrupted by unethical practices, no consistency of ethics. Just remember, your vote is data and it is being manipulated in directions we didn't want our vote to go. Ethics has to be the new discussion that Americans have to have and demand for. We have to hold these individuals accountable who are controlling the data of elections and of healthcare. The Federal Elections Commission in Washington DC has to take a stronger stance and write election guidelines that everyone must practice to ensure a ethical political election. In no way should our elections be handled by a foreign company with ties to unethical political organizations and people. We have come to the point that we, as Americans, must doubt everything that government touches when it comes to data because they have corrupted the process with a political drive for power.
If you have any questions or comments, send me a text to 818.252.5682. If you want to know what I do for a day job visit www.lodge-co.com
Many children grow up in two homes, parents that separated or divorce. Also parents that never married but have a child together. Both parents need to take care of those children responsibly by putting together a parenting plan. A set of rules that will help both parents to be better parents through a tough situation. Sit down with a Mediator and put together a parenting agreement to set the rules in dealing with the children's care and addressing issues when raising children after a break up and a broken home. A mediator can sit with both of you and go through the issues professionally and calmly. Set the rules of parenting.
If you have a question or comment, text me at 818.252.5682. If you want to know what I do during the day, go to my website at www.lodge-co.com
Today is December 1, 2020 and we have a few more days before a new year begins. This means that if you own a business of any size you need to review 2020 and plan for 2021. Creating your goals and objectives for the new year. You are responsible for the future of your business. First priority - never lock down again. Do not let government destroy your business again. During the last set of lockdowns it destroyed 60% of small businesses, they are no longer with us. It could have been us and if we let government do it again we are fools. We fight back in 2021. But now is the time that we begin planning for 2021, it is our responsibility.
If you have a question or comments, send me a text to 818.252.5682. Go to my website at www.lodge-co.com to know what I do at my day job. Talk with you soon - God Bless.
The tax breaks that each American received the last two years ends in 2025. However, if Georgia votes blue and puts the control of the United States Senate in the hands of the Democrats higher taxes will start 2021 because now they have the control of Congress and the Senate with the promise from Joe Biden to raise taxes on all Americans. If Georgia sends Democrats to the United States Senate the country looses the balance of power and bad things can happen to each of us in America. Let me tell you, if my taxes goes up, the taxes on my business goes up, I am hold Georia responsible. Right now, with Covid, it has wiped out 60% of small business, they are gone. With higher taxes on small business and all Americans it will cause a decline in hiring, businesses will not be spend money on capital, the country will again go into a pause mode - not knowing what government is going to do to small businesses and all business in general. We need to be able to hold the tax programs that we have in line for at least 2025, when they expire. We need to protect our family and business finances with lower taxes. Right now in America Wall Street is moving money out of this nation because they are afraid of what the Biden administration can do to their cash and businesses. Which means that once again business will start looking for countries where taxes are lower and regulations don't kill them. Here we go again, just as in the Obama administration companies left the United States it has already started again because business is afraid of Biden and his unknowns of higher taxes and red tape to do business in America. Four years of gains gone with a blue vote in the office of President. And now Georgia holds Americans in the balance of their vote for people going to the Senate. America, Georgia is the state that will make us or break us over the next four years. Let's hope that Georgia votes for the American people instead of a party that has already promised - higher taxes and more regulations. Georgia - your vote is for America, not just Georgia.
If you have any comments or questions, send me a text to 818.252.5682 If you want to know what I do in my day job, go to www.lodge-co.com God Bless!
This past week a court case brought against Gov. Cuomo and his attack against churches and religious organization in New York, shutting down of churches. This case was heard by the United States Supreme Court and by a 5 to 4 decision, they stated very clearly that the Governor was wrong and he had gone against the constitution of the United States and the protected right of religious liberty. Now the Governor says the Court is wrong, so he still does not believe in the religous liberty of churches. Now you know where he stand on God and the freedom to worship under the constitution. But I have to ask in my own mind is where is the backbone of churches to fight for their religeous liberty and freedoms? Only a few have fought government, the rest remained silent, obeying government, giving up their constitutional rights. Once you have government attack religious liberty and rights under the constitution, then they will begin attacking other freedoms given us under the constitution. And then you have no rule of law and you have lost your right as an American. Where is our backbone as Americans, when did we become so weak? If you want to continue on as a free American you have to stand up and fight. Get a backbone.
If you have any questions send me a text at 818.252.5682 and if you want to know what I do in my day job go to www.lodge-co.com
In September of 2020 there was a report out of Yelp that shows 60% of business closure was due to the corona virus are now permanent. Way over 100,000 small businesses are now gone because of government lockdowns, government distroyed small businesses nationwide. It is our duty to these small businesses to provide them with a new life by use supporting them this Christmas holiday season. I love small businesses, but they are just trying to keep their businesses open. In some states they are defying government, telling officers to leave their businesses, they are fighting back in California. And this is starting to happen nationwide. So you and I, let's support these small businesses with our business of buying.
If you have any comments or thoughts, send me a text to 818.252.5682 If you want to know what I do in my day job go to www.lodge-co.com Book a 60 minute business advice session with me and I will help you on business questions.
It is countdown to Thanksgiving. A day set aside to be with family and friends and to be thankful for life. Starting today, put your thankful lists together of everything that you are thankful for. Then lift them up to God and say thankyou. For those of us who are alone on Thanksgiving, just know that no matter where you are someone is thinking about you and praying for you. You are not alone. Look up and say thankyou. Just a few more days and it will be that day for you and I to remember what we are thankful for. Start today, create your thankful list and give thanks.
If you have any comments or questions, send me a text to 818.252.5682 or find out what I do in my day job at www.lodge-co.com
I just read today that Harvard University said they would blacklist any former Trump employee or who served under Trump. Now Harvard is in Massachusetts, which has a very strong law on blacklisting, "Using intimidation or force to prevent or attempt to prevent someone from obtaining or continuing in employment." So the state has a very strong law on Blacklisting, and for a University to go to the press and make a statement that is published around the world, it is intimidation to prevent Trump people from obtaining a job. CNN has put their list of Trump people together and have threatened that they would try and stop Trump people from getting jobs. CNN is using their power to intimidate Trump people. Ethical, nope. In face blacklisting is a highly unethical issue that all Americans should be concerned about when companies and people try an intimidate through blacklisting. This blacklisting is a very evil practice - by anyone.
If you have any questions or comments, send me a text to 818.252.5682 If you want to know what I do in my day job go to www.lodge-co.com. Buy one of my books for a good stocking stuffer.
These are my views and opinions only
If you look at the word hustle in the dictionary the word hustle is described two ways. 1) busy movement and activity. 2) A fraud or swindle. Which means a hustler is working fast to take something from someone through a hustle. It is a negative thought on a word that a lot of people are trying to sell you on starting a side hustle or something else. You see it all over social media and usually they are running their own hustle to get something from you. They are not trying to build anything, they are wanting fast money but never building solid business relationships. The story a hustler sells is falsehoods and nonsense. A business person builds something with relationships and a steady flow of repeat business and referrals. A hustler or a husle get whatever money they can from one person and quickly moves onto the next person. If you are building a real business drop the word hustle from your business story. It's a worthless word from a hustler.
If you have any question or comments send me a text to 818.252.5682 If you would like to get good business advice, go to my website at www.lodge-co.com and see what my day job is. Talk with you soon.
I will never lockdown again. I will not allow Government to cancel Thanksgiving or Christmas again.
The people that we vote for and put them into office will affect our businesses. We have to be very careful to protect our businesses. Right now businesses are moving their capital out of the United States to safer countries, they are afraid of what Biden is going to do with taxes and other business issues. Forget that you are a member of a political party, it is very important that we vote people in that are pro-business and not anti-business. California is so anti-business that people and businesses are running out of the state - too high state taxes. They are moving to business friendly states with low or no state taxes. So that's what is going on with companies in the United States, they are looking at companies now, they are looking for countries that are friendly to business with very low corporate taxes. That creates less money to the government, they have to borrow more, and our national debt goes up. However, if you have lower taxes in the United States, money comes back to the United States, Jobs are created, companies begin to move back to our country. But the scar of higher business taxes by the projected president. Corporations have the legal and tax teams to get them to where they want to be. It is so very important for those of us in business to begin standing up to government. Certain states are about to lockdown again. Those of you in those states may end of shuting down for good - because of the government in your states. It's not just the federal government you have to worry about, it is also the government you have voted for in your states that will kill off businesses again because of covid, which is a government takeover of your lives and businesses, and they don't care how it will affect you. Power grabs because of a virus is pure evil. It is time to start defying government on lockdowns, fight back. If you're in California and you do nothing then your just plain stupid. Fight back.
If you have any questions send me a text to 818.252.5682 If you want to know what I do in my day job go to www.lodge-co.com
We have gone through a nasty political season, for the last four years. We just went through an election that was probably the most corrupt political scene we have seen from all sides of the political parties. And maybe some of that politics crept into the office and created an even more stressful workplace environment. The question is how did companies manage politics from not disturbing the workplace?
In march of 2020 I received an email requesting mediation in a company located in Oakland California for political and employee workplace conflict, all geared to politics. The story - the manager of the company had one employee that was right leaning and expressed his views on politics. The other two employees, who were left leaning, wanted the other employee fired. They did not agree with his political opinion and wanted him gone. There were a lot of hostile threats against the one employee, so much that the manager requested mediation to resolve the political hate in the office. Is this harassment? Yes, it is.
If you have workplace conflicts, especially if it revolves around politics, resolve it quickly. Bring in a mediator. Conflict is very expensive to the company, it reduces productivity, everyone stops communicating, work is delayed or done incorrectly because of the stress pressures built up in the office. Millions are lost each each year from employee conflicts. Resolve them quickly. Business has to take a pro-active approach in having a clearly stated company policy on politics in the business.
If you have any questions or comments, send me a text at 818.252.5682 If you want to know about my day job go to www.lodge-co.com
I am recording this on November 17th, next week is Thanksgiving and Black Friday, Christmas is almost here and the year end is around the corner. If you own a business it is time you put the politics aside and begin focusing on year end tax planning and writing down your plans for 2021. We don't know what is going to happen with potential lockdowns and Biden tax changes to our businesses, so you and I have to operate 2021 as though we are going to be hit with political lockdowns and think the process through. Listen to this podcast as I talk about the thought process for operating a business in 2021.
If you have any questions or comments, send me a text to 818.252.5682 If you would like to know what I do in my day job, go to www.lodge-co.com To book a 60 minute consultation on business issues you would like to talk about, you can book time with me on my website. Click on the middle tab.
The Govenor of Washington, Oregon and a couple of other states are embolden by Biden and his comments to shut down America again. No scientific to back up a lockdown. Lockdowns have not worked. People are still getting sick, healed and dyeing, because that is what a virus does. It has a life of its own, it moves, it changes, it's on about everything at some point in time. But there is not scientific evidence that lockdown work or stops the virus. Now here is what stupid is, the Governor of Oregon has rebranded the word "Lockdown" to the new term "Freeze". That is how stupid works, you just rename a bad event from lockdown to freeze. Now Governor's are wanting to do it again, not for science, but for a power over religion, shutting down churches, speech, school. If you and I do not stand up and defy these orders that do so much damage to our communities, we will loose our legal rights. Thank goodness a judge in California said that Gov. Gavin Newsom overstepped his responsibilities as Governor and started to make his own laws. If you do not start defying the politicians that are evil to this nation and our lives, we are going to be a socialist nation very quickly. Enough is enough and we have to defy. Churches, start forming Religious Liberty Committees. Invite attorneys, accountants, social media specialists, those who are good fighters with words, to join your committees. Fight back and protect your religious liberty. Start protecting the constitutional right of Freedom of Religion, Freedom of Speech. Defy is the key word to Government. Protect your Thanksgiving and Christmas. Do not let Government attack and take away your rights as an American. Defy. Protect. Fight.
If you have a questions or comment, send me a text to 818.252.5682 or if you would like to know what I do for a day job, go to www.lodge-co.com
We were reminded by Justice Alito's words this week, which is telling about the feeling of religious liberty in America. He stated, "It pains me to say this, but in certain quarters religious liberty is fast becoming a disfavored, right." Which means that there are politicians and individuals of academia that religion is not considered a liberty, a right under the constitution. We have seen this with the lockdowns in many states where churches were shut down. Pastors did not stand up and fight to keep their churches open, they bowed down to government and let government shut the doors of churches. At least we have a good example of what should be done in our fight for religious liberty. The Little Sisters of the Poor had a case where the Obama administration was trying to force them to go against their beliefs. The justice talked about this, he said, "Take the protracted campaign against the Little Sisters of the Poor in order of Catholic nuns, the Little Sisters or women who have dedicated their lives to caring for the elderly, poor, regardless of religion.......despite this inspiring work, the little sisters have been under unrelenting attack for the better part of a decade. Why because they refused to allow their health insurance plan to provide contraceptives to their employees. For that they were targeted......! But the sisters fought for their beliefs and stood firm and won. However, today government shut our churches down because of covid and pastors did nothing. Just a handful stood up, but most fell and obeyed government instead of God. Remember, God was praying in the garden and the disciples lay sleeping. God was upset because they lay there sleeping. Today God is angry with todays pastors for sleeping and allowing government to shut them down. Where are you now? Stop praying for God's help when you sit there silent and allow government to shut you down. The justice is so right, pastors you are wrong. Defy government and open up your doors.
If you have any questions or comments send me a text to 818.252.5682 If you want to know what my day job is go to www.lodge-co.com
A few more days it will be Thanksgiving. Remember what this is all about. People in Europe were being oppressed by government, by rulers. They were being over taxed, told what religion to follow, what they could and could not do. They were oppressed in all aspects of their lives. So they got on a boat, the Mayflower, and they left for a new world. On that boat they were sick, some lost their lives, it was winter and cold, but they made it to the Americas. They built houses and communities. They built relationships with the native Indians, sometimes there were problems, but they learned how to plant corn through the Indians. At the end of the harvest the Pilgrims and the Indians sat down and gave thanks. The lesson is to remember that this country was born by escaping government oppression. A few years later the British wanted America, so they came and tried to oppress again. They wanted to tax us without any representation in England. Americans rose up and chased the British back to England and the King decided let America live. We beat government oppression again. Today we have government trying to oppress us again, and isn't it amazing that they are trying to oppress Thanksgiving that has a very clear message on how we beat oppression by leaving oppression, and being thankful for being free. This Thanksgiving, do not let Government oppress you any longer. Stand up, celebrate Thanksgiving freely with your relatives and friends. Give of yourself to others and be thankful for the blessing you can pass on. Defy Government. Stop Government oppression.
If you have any questions send me a text at 818.252.5682. Learn what I do in my day job by visiting my website at www.lodge-co.com
With all of these messages from facebook that the election information you posted is disputed, and then they try and push you to a article on election results - which is false. Censorship is cutting out the constitution and freedom of speech. Shutting down speech on your views on the election. Through Zuckerbergs charities that provide poll workers to various counties to count votes, at no charge, is highly unethical. Zuckerberg is a danger to democracy. I saw two CNN reporters that stated that by conservatives leaving Facebook and Twitter to go to Parler is no democracy. Really? When these two organization are trying to manipulate the information be posted by Americans and then shutting down some posts because Facebook or Twitter did not agree with it. And then we find out that employees making these decisions use to work for political members in the Democratic party. Zuckerberg is a dangerous character so no wonder Americans are leaving Facebook and Twitter because they can no longer trust the social media giants. Unethical behavior starts from the top and works it way down to the employees of any organization. This is my view on ethics, that once you start bending the rulls of free speech, and trying to drive people to their views, that is political activism and unethical as a social media practice. No longer free speech. No longer ethical. In my book, Ethically Thinking, It's Not That Hard (Amazon) I outline the code of ethics of the Society of Journalism and show that not one entity out there that say they are news people, journalists, is following a code of ethics. Ethics has been thrown to the side and each American is suffering from it right now - corrupt election and no responsible or truthful news. The only way to stop this is to fight back. I think that is why so many Americans are leaving Facebook and Twitter because they have had enough. On December 1, 2020 I will be one of those who will leave Facebook and Twitter because I no longer trust them.
If you have any questions or comments, send me a text to 818.252.5682 If you want to know what I do in my day job to to www.lodge-co.com
Whoever the factchecker was at CNN that approved Amanpour remarks on calling Trump and Americans who voted for Trump as Nazi's needs to be fired. She should be fired for making such a comparison, it's not just an attack on Trump, but every one of us who voted for Trump. What editorial fact checker approved her remarks on Americans and Nazi's? CNN, I hold you and Amanpour accountable for this hateful divide. You speak of unity and yet you speak hateful words towards the American people. I will not unite with you if you hate me, you think I am a fool? No way will American unite with Joe Biden if you continue to push hate. You have broken the journalism code of ethics and that makes you no longer journalists, just tabloid nonsense and political activists. You - CNN and Amanpour are guilty of hate and divide. I am holding you responsible for this election chaos and the hate you spread on a daily basis. Enough. Fire Amanpour.
If you have any questions or comments, send me a text at 818.252.5682 www.lodge-co.com
Biden has people speaking to the pressing saying that they want to shut down the nation, the entire nation, for six to eight weeks. After the nation has just come out of a lockdown, based on no scientific evidence that it would heal the Covid problem, after businesses were damaged or out of business, mental health issues, physical and mental abuse, Biden and the Governors want to do it again. No scientific evidence shows that lockdowns work, in fact they have not worked. More people got sick at home. This kind of idiotic lockdowns do nothing to solve the problem. It is a virus, it has a life of it's own, it travels, it mutaits, it changes, it is everywhere, and at some point we may get it. It is treatable, unless you have other health conditions that fail at the same time you have covid. Lockdowns do more damage and is bad for America. Do not comply. Keep your businesses open. Get the churches back up and open. Work on your immune systems, wear the masks, distance, clean. But do not lockdown and go through another path of political destruction by Biden and his idiots. Challenge any politician that says the word Lockdown. Enough is enough. We are humans and we know how to take care of our own health practices with this virus. And by the way, the government numbers on covid are corrupt, bad data in and bad data out. And yet no one wants to talk about that. Good example. A friend of mine thought she was having a stroke, she went into the hospital where they found it was stress. When she went to check out and pay her bill they told her - you owe nothing, you are a covid case. The hospital did not even test her for covid. The hospital charted her as covid and produced another bad number for the corrupted statistics of who has covid. Now here is the bad thing. They said she had covid but gave her no instructions on what to do, because they knew she did not have covid. Bad data in - bad data out. Do not comply with another covid lockdown - fight it. If you have any questions or comments, send me a text to 818.252.5682 www.lodge-co.com
There are federal and state laws that prohibit employment blacklisting. If you find you have been or are being threatened by blacklisting, you can sue for defamation or discrimination. You can file a blacklisting complaint with the federal Equal Employment Opportunity Commission if you think discrimination is involved. This happens in the workforce that endorses that blacklisting is discrimination. So those of you in the mainstream media who are pushing these lists of Trump employee and those that supported trump to tell future employers not hire them - this is illegal blacklisting. Intentionally preventing a person from getting hired is ILLEGAL! I really hope these people that are being blacklisted sue your pants off for promoting blacklisting. Enough of this nonsense. Your political opinion is not the law, the law, under the constitution, the equal opportunity law, is the law - not the media. Americans - fight back against the media. If you have any questions, send me a text to 818.252.5682 www,lodge-co.com
In America we have been faced with the knowledge that this election is filled with fraud. Some big some small, some really bad mistakes. Politics is a dirty business. Nothing in politics is played fairly or ethically. I love this quote, "If you have always believed that everyone should play by the same rules and be judged by the same standards, that would have gotten you labeled a radical 60 years ago, a liberal 30 years ago and a racist today." - Thomas Sowell. Nancy Pelosi wanted chaos in this election, that is why she pushed mail in voting, she knew there would be election fraud. So she muddied the waters so the American people couldn't see it. But now we see, with the water clearing a big, we see fraud going on. Nancy knew it, and she pushed a fraud onto the American People. And then we have the Media who are no longer independent in their work, they are tied to a political party and a political candidate for President. They no longer want to dig into the election fraud that is going on in this great nation. So they keep pushing that there is no election fraud. The media has now become a political activists, and that is where corruption and the frauds start. The media has become contaminated with their own political agenda. They no longer report but instead the create the news. It is time that we as Americans demand and challenge politicians and the media on their agenda, stop them, hold them accountable for the fraud. If you have any questions, send me a text to 818.252.5682 www.lodge-co.com Go to my website and purchase my two books - Ethically Thinking, It's Not That Hard / Daily Strategy. You guy buy them on my website. Good Stocking Stuffers for Christmas.
Nepoleon Bonaparte said, "Four hostile newspapers are more to be feared than a thousand bayonets." Even back in his time he knew the corrupt power of the press and the damage they could do to a nation. He feared them more then bayonets. We have the same problem today with the media in the United States and throughout the world. The media today has tried to censor, shut people down, threaten Americans, so Nepoleon knew what he was talking about. Just think what he would say if he could see what is going on today. We should fear the power of the press and then dismantle the news agencies that continue to threated our rights, jobs, political thought, or elections. Governments won't do it, so it has to be Americans that has to do the job. There are ways. Just look how many followers and viewers have left fox over the last few days because of unethical reporting of the election they have moved over to Newsmax. Look at Twitter and how many of their followers have moved over to Parler. We have options or we can create option that are ethical and report the real news. Once the media become political activists they become a danger to you and you are the ones to challenge them and to make changes. That is unity. If you would like to see the Society of Journalism code of ethics, buy my book - Ethically Thinking, It's Not That Hard, the code of ethics is in my book. Read it know it, question the news. If you have any comments or questions, send me a text to 818.252.5682 www.lodge-co.com
First let me state that as I write and podcast this, Biden has not been certified by the States as a winner in those states, and there are ongoing lawsuits on voter fraud in several states. So at this moment we don't have a clear winner. But if Biden does win, what are the tax issues out there that we could be facing. If you have any questions or comments, send me a tex at 818.252.5682 www.lodge-co.com
Joe Biden has call for unity in the United States, however how can there be unity if the Democrats continue to hate? 85% of democrats claim Trump is "Racist." 61% of democrats believe that ALL republicans are "racist / bigoted / sexist" and other hate filled names to create divide. So unless his party changes - there can be no unity. Political unity can never happen when a party is filled with hate for the other side. Nancy Pelosi goes to the mic every single day and calls out people with very hate filled statements - this is not unity. Social media and main stream media have stated that they can't be friends with republicans any longer, they are cutting off their friendships with people that don't believe as they do - this is not unity. There can never be political unity when one side says, either you vote and believe like we do or you are a Nazi, racist, deplorable, and the hate name list goes on. You see it is only one sided. Beleive as we believe or you are out and we will destroy you. That is where we are at before and after this election, Democrats will not change. Political unity - never. Local community involvement, looking at what is needed in your community that you can work together on, that is how you unit. Political unity will never be there - unless it is forced unity in the name of politics. Get involved in your own communities and get things done - Government will never unit you. If you have any comments or questions, send me a text to 818.252.5682 www.lodge-co.com
I will never lockdown again. I will not let a government harm my business, destroy my life. This Covid has been used to destroy businesses and create an election chaos that has destroyed our elections across the nation by the use of mail in ballots blaimed on Covid. A clever corrupt plan by the Democrats to create chaos. But the lockdowns has done such great damage to this nations businesses, and businesses all around the world. I will not shut down ever again, I will stand and fight to keep my business going. Government does not have that right to shut any business down. Stand up Americans, fight back. If you have any comments or questions, send them to 818.252.5682 www.lodge-co.com
All of us have been disappointed with this election. The corruption of the Media. The evil practices of Politicians. We have lost faith in a Government to protect our rights and a media to tell the truth. No matter who wins this election the process of getting things done comes back to us, the American people. Forget about the national political scene. We have to focus on our local communities, what can we do to make our community better and together. So the questions to you American - what are you going to do? It is time to take our minds of the big picture of the nation and to begin focusing on our communities, schools, churches, homeless, Students who need tutors, and the list goes on. My friends, there is a lot of work for all of us in our communities. Strong communities create a strong America. It has nothing to do with politicians getting things done, all they care about is your vote. It's up to us to take care of our own communities, our local friends, our children. Get involve in your childrens schools, what are they being taught, for parent groups to protect your kids. As you can see there is a lot to get done and it up to us to do it. So the question is - what are you going to do? Tell me, send me a text at 818.252.5682 or send me an email at info@lodge-co.com Visit my website at www.lodge-co.com
You and I have seen a lot of bad reporting. Media outlets reporting news that do not follow ethical practices. Stories that are designed to do damage. News to sway listeners to their political agenda. Ethics in reporting or telling a story is no longer ethical. The Society of Journalists have their code of ethics published on their website. You can go to my book - Ethically Thinking, It's Not That Hard, on Amazon. Page 25 talks about the ethics of journalists and their code of ethics is there for you to read. As an accountant and a mediator, I have a code of ethics that I am required to follow. Right next to my desk here, on the wall, is my accountants code of ethics. I look at it every single day, it reminds me of my responsibility as an accountant. Journalists need to be held accountable to a code of ethics. If you have any comments or questions, send me a text message to 818.252.5682 www.lodge-co.com
Americans lost an election last night. A media tried to manipulate the electoral numbers and in the calling of states. Then we saw certain Democratic states try to stop the election from flowing through and stopped the count and did not protect the ballots. The media needs to be held accountable for the very bad election night reporting of results. They completely reported nonsense. They gave states to candidates when there was still a million plus votes that still needed to be counted. We saw Fox news have to take back their projections because they were wrong. And then Florida was called for Trump but the media would not report it. Unethical? Yes, very unethical. Hold these media outlets accountable and the politicians that are playing games with vote counting, it has got to stop! If this goes to the Supreme Court it is justified because of the corrupt practices of the election process in various states. Especially Pennsylvania. It appears to be corrupt to the bone from the Governors office on-down. Ethics was not a part of this election. It is time for changes and each American need to call these unethical individuals out, hold them accountable. If you have any questions, send me a text to 818.252.5682 www.lodge-co.com
Today as Americans we cast our vote for President and a whole bunch of other positions. This is our day that our vote and voice gets heard and counted. Some of us may not like the individual that gets chosen, but as Americans we will respect the office and position of the President. That doesn't mean that we don't stop our fight for what we believe in, that continues - peacefully. Those that riot and try and destroy, they don't speak for anyone, just their own desire to destroy and create chaos. This voice is mute. We cast our votes today on the belief that America is a great nation and our constitution is strong, that our vote truly matters. Some of you will win today and some will lose. But our love for our nation does not end, our desire to see our fellow Americans to be successes lives on, and we continue to fight for our rights and beliefs - peacefully. Happy Election Day America. It's your day. If you have any questions or statements, send me a text to 818.252.5682 www.lodge-co.com
November 3rd is election day in America. The day that we get to choose a President and other politicians. It is a very important day. No matter who you are voting for - I love you. Even though you are voting for someone that I don't agree with - I still love you and respect you. However, if you are going into the voting booth with pure hate, hen I am sorry for you. Hate has been pushed by social media, mainstream media and democrats on a daily basis. We have heard it from Republicans also. But hate never accomplishes anything - except it hurts a lot of people and communities. If you are going to go out and riot on election day - I have no respect for people that try and hurt other people. Your voice is not heard but your actions become hated because of the hurt it does to Americans. Tomorrow, we all make an important decision, but your decision is not just for yourself, it is also for your fellow Americans. Who is best to run the country for the Nation. It isn't about your hate, it is about choosing an individual that will make our nation strong with the success of it's people. Socialism is not a success, it has failed over and over again. God bless you with your voice and God bless America. If you have any questions or comments, send me a text at 818.252.5682 www.lodge-co.com
Lockdown have not worked. Lockdowns have done greater damage to nations and communities then the virus. Mental health issues have increased, greater suicides, businesses going out of business, Abuse has gone up, people have lost their jobs, and the end result is that Lockdowns create more death in this nation. This is a virus and it is going to live on. It floats in the air, is on surfaces, moves constantly. At some point in time the majority of you will get it. Lockdowns fail but thinking and moving forward does great things. Worker confidence has grown in the last few months because they know they can work and do their jobs anywhere they want to be. They can go into the office with confidence because they know how to live with a virus. They follow the rules. Americans and people of the world are adaptable and have confidence in what they do and know how to live with a threat of a virus. Let's keep moving forward. Lockdowns are just political power plays by politicians. Listen to this podcast. If you have any questions, send me a text to 818.252.5682 www.lodge-co.com
We all should be happy that our economy has grown by 33.1%. The other part of the story is that US workers are gaining confidence per a study by Linkedin. U.S. workers are steadily gaining confidence, according to Linkedin's Workforce Confidence Index. The index - which measures how Americans are feeling about their job security. It has risen, since April, it is up by 33 on a scale from -100 to +100. Workers are now use to the Covid rules of work and life are, they are complying, and they are working harder then ever from various places. They have the tools to do their job and they have confidence in the new way of working. Americans are very adaptable and push forward. The Economy is up and workers confidence is up. That is damn good news. If you have any questions or comments, send me a text at 818.252.5682 www.lodge-co.com
The Media have left their ethics of journalism and become a Mafia group of individuals pushing their own political agenda. The Society of Professional Journalists on their website have their code of ethics and it is a good set of codes. However, journalists no longer follow their own code. They feel their power as a journalist is their ability to push their own political views and agenda. Journalists have become corrupted by politics. That is a real problem because now so-called news is no longer trustworthy. It is no longer pure news, it is a political agenda. CNN, Fox, MSNBC and the major networks have stopped delivering the news. Bad unethical news gives you and me bad information. They do it to sway our views, to create fears, and in some cases to creat chaos. Ethics in the news is gone. So you and I have to hold them accountable, hold their advertisers accountable for promoting bad news based on political agenda's. Hold them accountable. If you want to read their code of ethics, go to Amazon and buy my book - Ethically Thinking, it's Not That hard, by Michael Lodge. Go to Chapter five and read the code, I have put it there.
If you have any questions or comments, send me a text to 818.252.5682 www.lodge-co.com
Interesting! The trend on google for the past seven days in the United States is the question, "Can I Change My Vote?' After the last debate between Trump and Biden and especially over the weekend people are wanting to know how they can change their vote. The states searching is Idaho, Arizona, Rhode Island, Oklahoma and Florida. Now the answer to if you can change your vote is - yes, in some states. Such as Minnesota, Michigan, Wisconsin, New York, Pennsylvania, Mississippi, and Connecticut. It is a very interesting change that people are asking the questions and they want to know what can they do about it. If you want to see the full story go to www.hitc.com where they have all of the data and graphs on the trending of the question, "Can I Change My Voice". If you have any questions or comments, send me a text at 818.252.5682 www.lodge-co.com
The Society of Journalists have a code of ethics that they have stopped following. The first part of their code is - Seek Truth and Report It. That is gone. Now it is a political agenda being pushed by a network or cable news source. Not one part of the code of ethics for journalist is no longer being followed. In my book, Ethically Thinking, It's Not That Hard, I have one chapter in the book called, "The Ethics Of The Media". I published their entire code of ethics, read it, and you will find that not one part of their code is being followed. We as Americans have to hold these reporters and news organizations accountable, hold them to their code of ethics. We deserve news, but we don't need the commentary to push an agenda of the political views of the reporter or news organizations. Hold them accountable. Do you own due diligence If you have any questions or comments, send me a text to 818.252.5682 www.lodge-co.com
I listen to podcasts as I am driving, sleeping, walking, working, basically anywhere. I have two favorite business podcasts because they tell a story. Stories are the best way to learn. My two favorite are - Business Wars & How I built This. If you have any questions, send me a text to 818.252.5682 - www.lodge-co.com
Facebook and Twitter have done a lot to destroy their business reputations by forcing censorship during a political season. They have imposed strict rules that shutdown freedom of speech. And it seems to be one sided as they will let reports of false news on Trumps tax returns but will not allow documented real news on the corruption of Hunter and Joe Biden. It has become a filthy mess created by Twitter and Facebook political views and agenda. If you have any questions or concerns, text me at 818.252.5682 - www.lodge-co.com
One of the most important aspects, often forgotten about, is the tax consequences as you go through separation and divorce to consult your tax practitioners. Go to a tax practitioner that really understands the tax rules of separation and divorce. The IRS has guidelines to follow. Do you own due diligence in knowing your financial and tax situation. You need to understand the separation agreement and all the way through to the finial divorce decree, it will affect your tax situation. If you have a question or comment, send a text to 818.252.5682 www.lodge-co.com
On Sunday Senator Chuck Shumer made a statement that he was going to boycott the Judicial committee and the Senate vote on the Supreme Court Justice. In yesterdays hearing the opening statements made by the Democrats was about Covid and pointing fingers at the President and Obamacare. Nothing about the role of a Judge or the constitution. Instead it was pure politics and nothing worthwhile to be considered valuable to the American people or the process of democracy and the constitution. Nothing but political games. Worthless. If you have any comments send them to me via text at 818.252.5682 www.lodge-co.com
Today I received an email from yelp telling me they want me to participate in their anti-discrimination program, and if I do they will put a note by my name, if I don't they will put a symbol showing I have not complied. Now, I am in compliance with all federal and state laws that are mandated that I comply with when it comes to discrimination, harassments, etc. Now Yelp is trying to tell me what to do on how to train my people, or they will put a mark by your name. Enough of this social media companies telling me how to do my business as I am paying them to be on their sites. Tell me how you feel, send me a text to 818.252.5682 www.lodge-co.com
Nancy Pelosi attacks the constitution again. First it was an impeachment of a president on no criminal acts being committed, she lost in the Senate. Now she feels that since the President is under medication to treat Covid that it is hampering his ability to think right to do the duties of the President. And she is setting this same rule up in the event Biden can't do his duties as president and to put in Harris. It is a big warning to Americans on what will happen. So, Nancy is creating a constitutional crisis to remove a President. This is a threat to the constitution bas on a desire to gain political power over the American people. This has got to be stopped. If you have any questions or comments, send me a text to 818.252.5682 www.lodge-co.com
In daily married lives and divorced lives where children are involved there is going to be conflict. Every parent starts their days with children negotiating and dealing with conflict. A lot of us a really good at negotiations, but fail badly in conflict management. The best skill to learn is how to deal with conflict in the relationship with your children. Conflict will always be there and if you know how to handle it, you will be a better parent. It doesn't make you a perfect parent, none of us will ever be that, but you will be a better parent in learning how to deal with conflict with children. And it might be a good deal to learn how to deal with conflict with the other parent. Learn to manage conflict. I would really like to hear about your success and failures in dealing with conflict. Send me a text to 818.252.5682 I want to hear from you. You are good teachers in life. www.lodge-co.com
This political season has really become a season of hate. People have sent me vial responses to the way I believe. Written hate, verbal hate. But it has to be forgiven in order to not get involved in hate. Respond with love and hate. Pray for those that hate, we are all children of God. We are all part of a family, and in families, we forgive. If you have any questions or have a need for prayer, send me a text to 818.252.5682 www.lodge-co.com
Good people pray for the President and his wife. Evil people hope for bad things. Beware of hate. My mom always told me to never say you hate someone. She said hate is the same as murder, you hoping that person will have bad come to them. Hate is evil. Move away and distance yourself from hate. Distance yourself from people who want bad things to happen to other people. Be good, pray, destroy hate. Pray, for the President. If you have any questions send me a text to 818.252.5682 www.lodge-co.com
Can you believe it, it is now October 1, 2020. We just have a few more days until 2020 is over and we are off into 2021. That means that you and I have got to sit down and start planning for 2021. If you have a business - plan. If you need to correct your personal financial lives - plan. Go out and get a journal and start writing down what you need to do for 2021. Be proactive and start the process. If you don't put your plan into writing you will not ever have a plan for 2021. It is time to be smart, it is time to tell Government - you will not shut me down again. It takes guts and planning, and I know you can do it. If you have any questions, send me a text to 818.252.5682 www.lodge-co.com
So we all got our chips last night and sat down and watched a pay per view debate of nonsense. This was a debate that was Trump debating Chris Wallace and Biden, and Fox News is the nonsense creator of a bad debate. By the end of the debate I had a headache and all my chips were gone. We only learned three things, Biden hates Trump, he doesn't believe in the Green New Deal and he doesn't believe in socialism, and he hates Trump. So no one walked away last night with changed minds. In fact I am locked and loaded on my vote and who I am voting for. So for me, no more debates after what I saw last night. You know Wallace did bad when people within Fox were saying how bias he was, and this morning he is not on any of their morning shows. Now that is bad. I encourage everyone, turn off the media and do your own due diligence on these people running for office. It's up to you, not for the media to give you any information at all to help you. Do you own due diligence. If you have any questions, send me a text to 818.252.5682 www.lodge-co.com
Here we go again. Another fake release of Trumps tax returns with a wrong analysis, made up nonsense. Why does this happen? Because people think they are going to find a crime when all the man did was to apply the legal tax codes that met his personal and business tax needs. No crime, just a code. Every single person in this country does the same thing. If there was a tax crime, and through all the audits by the IRS, there would have been a tax charge by now. But to this date - nothing. Except in the people with hate and wanting something bad, or to make up something bad. You will never see the true business picture of Donald Trump by looking at his personal tax returns because he has hundreds of companies that never get reported into his personal tax returns. They have lives of their own, apart from his personal return. So you are wasting your time crying about Trumps personal tax returns. It is all nonsense. Focus on the two candidates, what have they accomplished and what is their plan for you. If you have any comments, send me a text to 818.252.5682 www.lodge-co.com
At this very moment that I am writing and recording this podcast, Pastor Graham is on the Washington Square in Washington DC with thousands of Americans praying for our country and our leaders. You may be walking, running, driving, with family, but stop and send a prayer towards heaven for this nation. Pray for your nation. If you have a prayer request, send it to me by text at 818.252.5682 www.lodge-co.com
Over the last few weeks and days, I have received a lot of requests for marriage separation and divorce. My gut feeling is that since Covid came onto the scene, we were all locked down with our loved ones, husbands and wives, girlfriends and boyfriends, got on each others nerves. The communication process turned into bitching and words you probably wouldn't even say to your dog. The emails and notifications on marriage mediations has risen because of Covid. If you have a question on marriage mediation, send me a text to 818.252.5682 www.lodge-co.com
Covid and lockdown, a down economy, has created a lot of frustration and stress between relationships. Some are wanting to separate. If you are going to separate do two things, go in to counseling and have a separation agreement so both parties know the rules of separation. Contact a mediator and set some rules between both of you. It makes it civil and communication is better. Don't be just angry at each other, it solves nothing. Set some rules through a separation agreement. If you need help, send me a text to 818.252.5682 www.lodge-co.com
This morning I turned on my Twitter account to check postings and found that I had been censored. They had shut down my account because of a response I had left on a posting. The posting was of a man in a wheelchair being verbally abused by another man on a hiking trail who thought the wheelchair should not be there. Rude evil comments to a man in a wheelchair. I defended the man in the wheel chair. I called the abuser a nancy boy and twitter decided to shut me down. Now they said I could remove the comment, I said no, I was defending a man in the wheelchair. I then appealed it to Twitter, they then shut down my account but gave me one more chance to delete the tweet. I then sent them a message asking them for mediation because they had gone too far and they need to resolve the issue. No response yet. But this is censorship and it was done on Constitution Day. Listen people, defend your constitutional rights. Just don't sit there, fight back. If you stop fighting your rights will vanish very quickly. Fight back. Support and defend the constitution. If you have any comments or questions, send me a text at 818.252.5682 www.lodge-co.com
In November you and I are going into the voting booth to chose a President. Remember the word "Confidence". Do you have confidence that the individual you will vote for will be good for your pocketbook? Does he understand the economy, our finances, and to build consumer confidence. Or will he create new taxes that will attack our personal and family finances, as well as our businesses. With no confidence the economy gets put on hold. It pauses, as it did during the Obama administration. Think before you vote. Confidence is the key word, not political party, or you hate for someone. If you have any question send me a text to 818.252.5682 www.lodge-co.com
I remember exactly where I was and what I was doing when I found out that America had been attacked. I can still see myself on that day as a moved in slow motion as the attacks happened and life around me changed. The lesson learned from this day is that America can survive anything. We love Americans more as we remember those that lost their live on this day. We will always remember this day, every single year, year after year, because we survived as a nation under attack. Send me your texts on what you were doing to 818.252.5682 www.lodge-co.com
We are here, the last three months of the year. Time to begin our business planning for 2021. Without a plan you have no direction on what you want to do for your businesses. Get your journal out and begin writing down on your thoughts for the new year, in Oct, Nov and Dec you put it into a formal plan, you talk to your staff and get their ideas. You have three months to get your goals and objectives for your business are going to be. Do it in your personal life to. Put your personal financial plans onto paper, in your journal also. Get ready for 2021. 2020 was a pile of poo, 2021 you start fresh and work it. If you have any questions, send me a text to: 818.252.5682 www.lodge-co.com
Mediation is a process that helps resolve conflicts and disputes in business and also in families. Having a third party mediator helping people to listen and guiding them to resolve issues, that it provides a structure to focus on the issues. If you have any questions on the process of mediation, send a text message to 818.252.5682 www.lodge-co.com
Kamala Harris was talking to a group of people this past weekend on Labor and business. Why would anyone listen to a politician who knows nothing about business and has been a government employee all their life. Business is trying to survive daily and politicians get a pay check no matter what happens. When we were shut down, our businesses closed, Kamala and Joe still got a paycheck. Why would anyone listen to a government employee about business? If you are you are stupid. Kamala and Joe only know one way to spell business - Tax Business. If you have any questions on business send me a text to 818.252.5682 www.lodge-co.com
We have a bunch of Democratic elite that says do as I say, not as I do. If you don't, then you will be fined or put in Prison. Our Government is out of Control and we saw it so evident by Nancy and her bad hair day. If you have any comments, send a text to me at: 818.252.5682 www.lodge-co.com
I was talking to a nice guy last week, starting a new business, wanted to have a 30 minute consult with me last week. However, about ten minutes into the consult it was clear that the two partners in the business had not clearly defined their roles in the company. No one was in charge. Communications has broken down and there was a concern as to how long the company could survive with this type of operation. I asked that they go into a mediation, a third party with experience in business, so the mediator could guide them along and get an agreement in place as to who would run the business. Pre-game time was over and they had to get a plan in place for the real game of business. If you have any questions on business, send me a text to 818.252.5682 www.lodge-co.com
It is up to all of us who hold the right to vote to do due diligence on Kamala Harris. The Democrats have called in Hollywood to remake her, from being a far leftest to a moderate. The Problem with Ms. Harris is that Americans have already seen the person, her anti American stance from being an Attorney General in California to a Senator who only voted for far left bills. She has never been for the fairness of law but rather for the political law she wants to promote. I encourage all of you, go to the Congress web site and look at her voting record, it is very easy to do. Look at what she did in the state of California, with Gavin Newsom to destroy a city. Do you due diligence. Do not listen to the news media, they have been given their marching orders on how to show Harris as a moderate. The marching orders has been given to how you should see her and not what she actually is. If you have any questions or comments, send me a text to 818.252.5682
I was attending a ethics class for accountants yesterday and the topic came up on how ethical are our linkedin accounts? So many people may have endorsed your skill levels - but are they right? Have they endorsed you in the wrong category and it may not even have any thing to do with your professional abilities. In my account people had endorsed me to be really good in sales - far far from any truth. I am the worse person at sales, or marketing. So I spent some time cleaning up my LinkedIn account because I wanted it to be truthful. It was a good topic to have because Linkedin is really our resume to build business relationships with. To be truthful is ethical. If you have any comments or questions, send me a text to 818.252.5682 www.lodge-co.com
I have seen it many times where tax clients need to have a tax write off and they use Schedule C - Business or Profession to do it. They have very little income and a great amount of expenses that give them a net operating loss to reduce their taxable income on the tax return. The question is, are they conducting real business or is it just a hobby? A Hobby pretending to be a business. Are you focused on creating a real business or just looking for a made up tax deduction? The first question the IRS will ask and have you prove - does your business have a profit motive? How is the activity of the business carried on? Is it business-like? Are you using separate bank accounts, keeping good records? What is your expertise in your business? How much time are you spending on the activity. And there are a whole bunch of other things that need to be looked at and considered. If you have any questions or comments, send me a text to 818.252.5682 www.lodge-co.com
Los Angeles Mayor says he will shut off your business utilities. New York Mayor is setting up road blocks into the City of New York. Who in the world would want to live in cities that care nothing about small businesses and individuals? They don't care about the safety of their residents. They don't care about the means to survive as a small business. Instead these mayors threaten, find, and arrest those that are hurt the greatest - small businesses. But how stupid are these mayors? They are so stupid that small businesses have shut down or moved out of the city completely, and that stops tax revenue going into the city or state. Bad policies mad from bad data, but they don't care because they have a political agenda, and that is more important then small business or you and I. If you have any comments or questions, send me a text at 818.252.5682 www.lodge-co.com
It is getting very close to the time to vote, our duty as Americans. However, we have to be very careful of the individuals we put into office and what their views on taxes and the financial success of Americans are really all about. Higher taxes = less jobs. Higher taxes = less money in Americans pockets, and the list goes on. If the candidate is pushing a political agenda - run. If they are looking at their communities that they will be serving and is talking about what makes good common sense for the people, take them into consideration. A candidate, if he/she gets elected, will be voting on bills that will affect our personal finances and our businesses. Be careful on who you put into office. Our vote matters, our lives matter and our nation matters. If you have any questions or remarks, send me a text to 818.252.5682 www.lodge-co.com
I am defending Ellen DeGeneres. She is being attacked by the political Hollywood. They attack and play dirty. The issue within her working production company for her show can be corrected, it can be cleaned out, get out the politics and the nonsense of the show. Ellen, don't give up, you have the ability to make your show better and the people that work for you more accountable. Perhaps your working group got too big, too political inside, out of control. You can clean house. But you are also being attacked by political Hollywood - within your organization and they want to get back at you. That is how dirty the game is played in Hollywood. This podcast defends Ellen. Political Hollywood - sit down - shut up. If you have any comments or questions, send me a text to 818.252.5682 www.lodge-co.com
2020 has been a sucky year. You probably can't compare it to other years in your life and hope it won't happen again. Everything is up in the air. It is hard to make any sort of plans, but I say - yes you can. This podcast is about setting your financial priorities, now and for the future. If you have any questions or comments, send me a text to 818.252.5682 www.lodge-co.com
Accountability - The fact or condition of being accountable, responsibility. Words that describe accountability is responsibility, liability, answer-ability, obedience. Before we can hold other people accountable we have to be accountable for what we do and say - every single day. This podcast is a discussion on our and their accountability. If you have a questions or comment, send me a text to 818.252.5682 www.lodge-co.com
I went to lunch today and had the best lunch ever. You want to know why? Listen to this podcast. If you have any questions or comments, send me a text to 818.252.5682 www.lodge-co.com
Many of the tenant rent moratoriums are about to end. Now is the time for tenants and landlords to start working together. This podcast is about how you can mediate and negotiate a solution to your covid rental problems. Every problem has a solution, but sometimes it takes mediation. This podcast will help you think the process through. If you have any questions, send me a text to: 818.252.5682 http://www.lodge-co.com
We are doing everything through virtual communication. Our stories we are going to tell have got to now change, we need to really know are stories and be very animated about them. Your no longer across a table where you have their attention. Now you are telling your story to a person far away on a computer with their kids running around them or other types of distractions. Know how to better tell your story virtually.
If you have any questions, let me know. Send me a text to: 818.252.5682 www.lodge-co.com
I hear mediations on a lot of Real Estate issues, and the number one story is on not disclosing everything about the property. Realtors should really be doing more due diligence on the property they are selling. Sellers need to be more honest. And buyers need to do their due diligence on what they are buying. Litigation is big in California and we are seeing more and more disclosure law suits raise their heads. I am hearing more mediation cases on disclosure complaints. Let's all do what is right, due diligence saves a lot of money and keeps you out of litigation.
If you have any questions or comments, send me a text to: 818.252.5682 www.lodge-co.com
Congressman Jerry Nadler said over the weekend that the violence of BLM and ANTIFA is only a myth. When are we going to stop listening to the lies of the Democrats, their hate for America, their desire for power through violence? When will this anarchy politics end? It can only end by Americans who take aim with their vote and vote out the politician that lies, supports the black lives matter and Antifa violence. Take your vote, aim well at the political anarchist. Communisim is running rampant in the Democratic party. They are using the very Chinese communist playbook on how to control a nation. Close the schools so there is no place to vote. Close the Churches so there is no place to vote. Shut down businesses so everyone become dependent on a government and lies of the Democrats. This November is the most important elections in the history of this nation. Do not vote by mail which is the most corrupt method to control votes. Go to the ballot box and vote by person, that way your know your vote was cast by you. OUR VOTE MATTERS, OUR LIVES MATTER, OUR NATION MATTERS. If you have any questions or comments, send a text to 818.252.5682 www.lodge-co.com
I love Tesla and Elon Musk. During the Corona virus fight with the State of California, Elon said he would make a new plant in another state that is business friendly. So he did it. Austin Texas won out and Tulsa Oklahoma may get one later. What he should do is build another one and shut down the operation in California that is so anti business that even State Legislators said they didn't need Tesla. So Austin Texas loves business and want to see more jobs in Texas. The question is how much longer can California last if they keep chasing people out of their state? And do they even care? Sound like they don't. Congrats to Austin and Texas.
OUR VOTE MATTERS, OUR LIVES MATTER, OUR NATION MATTERS #OURVOTEMATTERS
If you have any comments or questions, send a text to 818.252.5682 www.lodge-co.com
As we start to look at the cities with Mayors who refuse to do anything to protect their communities, we have a problem. Many have been given an opportunity of help from the President, but their hate filled political agenda's stops them from helping their own people. New York has been offered help from the Federal Government help, Deblasio refuses help and threatens law suits. Which means that his politics is more important then the people of New York. People get show at a funeral and the people at the funeral shoot back, and yet the Mayor refuses to do any law enforcement, he kicks the rule of law to the sewers of New York. Politicians have taken a violent political position by supporting black lives matter and antifa, instead of protecting the people of their cities. Our vote matters, our lives matter, so it is time to put our voice and our vote into action and vote these failures and dangerous politicians out of off. OUR VOTE MATTERS, OUR LIVES MATTER AND OUR NATION MATTERS and in November we will make changes.
If you have any questions or comments, send me a text to 818.252.5682 www.lodge-co.com
The Mediation process is a good informal confidential situation, confidence in hand, than a courtroom trial. You have the ability to hire an attorney to be your advocate if you feel it is needed, or you can represent yourself. Remember, the mediator is not there to provide legal guidance, they are not allowed to provide your legal counsel. The mediator is there to listen to each side, find a negotiating point where an agreement can be reached, resolve the issues between both sides. The whole process is confidential, unlike filing a law suit where it become a part of public record. Anyone can look it up. However, in mediation, the discussions and documents are kept confidential between all parties in mediation.
If you have any questions on mediation, send me a text to 818.252.5682 www.lodge-co.com
Gavin Newsom has shut down the state of California a second time for political purposes only. No science, because the first time he shut down it didn't stop it. Instead he says to the BLM rioters, go out and protest by the thousands, spread the virus around. And at the same time he blames restaurants and churches who were following the CDC requirements - he uses no commonsense. Just political driven corrupt agenda to destroy the State of California.
If you have questions or comments, send me a text to 818.252.5682 www.lodge-co.com
Because of the corona virus stimulus check, and the way the program was set up to check your stimulus refunds and filing a return to qualify for the check, will require you to file a paper return. Why? Because you filed a return online to qualify for the $1,200, so now you have to file another return via paper because you can no longer efile. Ask you tax practitioner about this issue. July 15th this year is the due date. Get it done.
If you have any questions, send me a text at 818.252.5682 www.lodge-co.com
Per God on business - Whoever works his land will have plenty of bread, but he who follows worthless pursuits will have plenty of poverty (Proverbs). To build a business it takes work, if you have a pursuit of fast money and bling, you will be in poverty. Think about it.
If you have any comments or questions, send me a text to 818.252.5682 www.lodge-co.com
It is seldom you have a friend in your life where their life story is so important. Zindzi Mandela was a good friend, her story impacted millions of people with her father Nelson Mandela. I will miss her greatly. Rest now Zindzi, you have lived a full life for your nation of South Africa and as a mother.
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We have a problem in the United States, but we can fix it. We have two Satins in the country, the Speaker of the house Nancy Pelosi and the Mayor of New York Bill Deblasio. Two individuals that have no desire to protect the rules of law and the people of America, instead they support Black Lives Matter a Marxist group with the only desire to destroy the United States. BLM has nothing to do with black lives. We have the ability to move these people out of office by demanding they resign and pushing that agenda or by voting out the followers of anarchy and BLM out of office. And there are many.
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Last night I had an individual approach me on IG telling me he was so happy that he found someone with my last name. He had a friend with the same last name who had died and he wanted to share $30 million dollars with me, split 50/50 from his friends account. Now this scam has been going on for about 30 years, same story, same line, same people from Nigeria. However, some Nigerians have moved to London, so they are operating out of a new country, but it is still going on. In this episode I go through the conversation that we had. If you have any questions, send me a text at 818.252.5682.
Two holidays that I love, 4th of July and Thanksgiving. I love the fact that on the 4th families get together, light up the bar-b-q, get the fireworks out, and enjoy our independence. However, now we have a struggle between Americans and Government. Our independence is taken away from us because of a virus. Beaches are closed. Let's show our independence this 4th of July. We are Americans.
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There is nothing worse to a prospective employer or contract situation where the applicant applies for work and then sends email after email, phone call after phone call , leaving message after message. Once an applicant becomes annoying the get put over in a pile of resume's that then get moved to a file in a cabinet someplace out in the warehouse You see, when we put an ad out on the internet we get hundreds of responses that have to be seen. Some resume's that have nothing to do with the job being offered but they thought they would submit just in case there was something. The long resume's never get read, they are put in a stack to be filed. The ones who are just submitting a resume get put on the same pile. So, we go through the resume's and we are looking for key words associated with the position we are trying to fill. However, we may not have gotten to your resume yet and for you to start calling and emailing on the first day you applied - where do you think your resume might end up? Remember the pile I was talking about earlier. Yep you go to the pile.
Have common professional courtesy, do not annoy the potential employer, be patient, and see what happens. But at all times you remain professional and courteous.
Questions? Text me at 818.252.5682 www.lodge-co.com
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Over the weekend I received a request to mediate from a small company. Her request was to bring in a non biased mediator to resolve the issue. The issue was that she had one long term employee that is conservative, however there were two employee that wanted him fired because he was a conservative. So we have political hate seeping into the office and it is a you against me situation based on two very different political views. We are going to see this more and more as the political heat gets higher as we get closer to the November election. Resolve workplace conflicts with a mediator that can bring the two opposing sides together and work at resolving the conflict and rejoin the team that they have created stress in. Conflict affects everyone in the office. Resolve it quickly.
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Do boycotts work? No. Sorry to say the answer is no. The best approach - use social media, writing letters, emails, let your views be known. Don't attack, have a well drafted content that has a solid argument. Using angry words don't cut it. They get thrown in the garbage. But if you have a solid argument that makes sense, use it effectively and be constant at it. Consistency brings results. Boycotts do not work.
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During a crisis your children are watching you, learning from you. How have you managed your financial situation during this lockdown? You have to realize your children have been watching and have you been a good teacher on money lessons during this economic stressful time. If you have a question or have a comment, send me a text at 818.252.5682 www.lodge-co.com
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To be a leader, you must stand for something, or you will fall for everything. There are two types of racism, real racism and then political racism. Unfortunately we are not having real discussions on real racism. Instead there are many people using the word racism to push a political agenda. There are people who make a lot of money pushing racism, they don't want racism to die. If you want to talk about real racism I want to hear your story and experience. However, if I don't agree with you politically and you call me a racist then you really don't have a belief, you have hate. Let's talk about racism, let's sit down over coffee, and I will listen. But leave racist attacks at the door when you talk about politics, it's call civility. Thank about it. So the question is, do you want a real discussion or do you want to politically hurl racism at people you don't like? Make the choice. Lead.
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Can we make it out of these two crises and become economically strong? We have been hit with two economic crises of Corona and the Protesting that continues on. The economic impact affect every single one of us. Those states and cities that have held their economies hostage through lockdowns and now hit hard by protests and riots. These communities are now high risk areas to do business in. Who would ever want to have a business in a high risk zone? Who would insure businesses in a high risk zone? Why would Walmart want to operate a store in a high risk city that has no police? A zone that has no protection for their businesses? They would be fools to operate in these kinds of communities where anything could happen to set off the community into violence and destruction of their business. See my point? We will make it through all this but it will take work by all of us. We will make it by deleting those politicians that push a political agenda instead of what is good for the people of their communities or states. These people have got to go. We have to support each other, join forces, and fight for the right of our survival.
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We have been scammed on Corona, on political racism, by politicians using us to stir up nonsense. We are seeing the government saying one thing on Corona virus to shut us down but yet allowing their political agenda do anything on the streets. Anarchists destroying black businesses in the name of Black Lives Matter. Everyone, black, white, Asian and all the other nationalities in the world, have been scamed and it is up to us to fix it. Government will not fix it, they just make it worse. But our change is a peacefully managed change that starts within our own communities and neighborhoods. We are the change, not the distruction of BLM or ANTIFA or Democratic politicians. Start with our communities and build up. Send me a tect if you have any questions or comments at 818.252.5682
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This is Sunday, a day we should be focusing on our spiritual needs God has said he really hates 6 things, these six things are what we should be looking for to stay away from and what we should not do.
Proverbs :16-19 - These six things both the Lord hate: yea, seven are an abomination unto him: A proud look a lying tongue, and hands that shed innocent blood, an heart that deviseth wicked imaginations, feet that be swift in running to mischief, a false witness that speaketh lies, and he that soweth discord among breathen.
Of the last four years, and two weeks we have seen hate build up so high by those who want to create evil for our nation. It comes from all sides. Some so bad that they have pushed an anarchy environment. We as good people now have to choose between good en evil, moral and immoral, and ethical and unethical movements of words and actions. It is now time for use to choose between good and evil.
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Anarcy is a dangerous group of people. They are the ones that don't really want to have a discussion about racism but instead promote racism as a way to make money or political power. These people are driving an agenda because it is good for them, it has nothing to do with you.
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Some of the issues you need to consider when thinking of starging your business, because of Covid job loss, is to remember the following.
- Failure is a part of the process
- Entrepreneurship will consume your life
- You will have doubt and you will doubt yourself at times
- The first few years are especially challenging
- Entrepreneurship can come with a lot of satisfaction
If you remember these five things, and create a journal that records your failures and successors, you can then pass it on to someone else. Surround yourself with a good business advisory team. And love what you do and you will enjoy being consumed. If you have any questions send me a text at 818.252.5682 www.lodge-co.com
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From the time I was born and until today, I have never experienced white privilege. From the day I was adopted and until today, I have worked so hard to build something. I never got any help to get through school. I worked hard in a furniture factory, working as a janitor, sanding desks and chairs for the dean of men. My parents were poor, they could give nothing to help me. People of color were able to get grants and loans that paid for their whole schooling, I got pennies to the dollar so I had to work to pay fro school. So I am not going to apologize for something that I have never experienced. I have never received a privilege, except to be alive and to try every single day. So when I see people kneeling down and apologizing for their white privilege, the "F" word comes in my head. Every single one of us that live in this nation are Americans. And there are some people that are stupid. Stupid people to me are the ones that take a word - race - and try and divide this nation with it. Politicians do this all the time and they use it to control people, divide, and to control. Worse people in the world. They talk about race, they yell it, they push it, and yet they do nothing about it. And the American people fall for year after year and yet it goes on and on. You and I, no matter what color you are, are human beings and Americans. It is you and I who will solve issues - not politicians. You and I are responsible to work on inequalities together. Politicians and government will just make it worse. You and I have a lot of work to do, a lot of conversations, we just need to work at it in our communities and work our way up.
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Change can only happen if you are willing to listen. Things can only get done if you are willing to listen, discuss, negotiate, and find a place to resolve differences. Protests, get nothing done except destroy your message. Hate just creates more hate. Destruction just destroys more communities. Black Lives Matter mission statement is to help and defend the black community but during all of this chaos and havic it has damaged the communities they were suppose to be fighting for. If you want change - get involved in your community. Sit down with a police officer and you tell them how your feeling, but also listen to what the officer has to say. These last two weeks have been a fight between good and evil. The message of good, change, has been silenced from violence. If you have any questions or comments send me a text to 818.252.5682 Let's talk it out. www.lodge-co.com
The most important aspect of our nation is the power of prayer. A lot of us have not been to church for a long time and may have forgotten how important prayer is. Now is the time that you and I have to drop to our knees and pray. This nation needs help - through prayer. To strengthen us. To open our ears and listen, to talk peacefully and respectfully, to stop the anarchy that we see running through our streets. You and I have got to stand up and be in support of those being damaged by anarchy. You and I have got to work together. We have to find our voice to mend fences. You and I can make change, Government can't do it. Government fails at it every single time. They have failed in these riots. But you and I, working together, can creative positive change. Today, on this day, drop to your knees and start the process with a conversation with God, for guidance, for change. Violence is not the answer, riots create more damage, so we pray for calm and the ability to create change.
If you have a question, or if you need prayer, send me a text to 818.252.5682 I am here to listen and to pray. www.lodge-co.com
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After Twitter put fact-check links on some of President Trumps tweets, the White House has responded with an executive order to try to remove some legal protections for social media companies. Section 230 of a 1996 law call the Communications Decency Act provided social media companies protection of not getting sued. However, now by editing peoples posts they are now editing posts, which takes them into the description as a publisher. I have been fact checked several times. It makes me angry because I posted a link to a main stream media article and Facebook didn't agree with what was said and they fact checked it with a biased source link to support their view. That is very wrong. That is not free speech, that is oppressing my post with their view by calling it fact checking. Totally wrong.
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As we watch the video of a Police officer slowly killing George we see not one police officer stepping in to stop it, not one single person in the crowd did anything, the person taking the video did nothing. Everyone stood there and did nothing. Everyone became mute and said nothing. No one had a backbone and stepped in to stop it. What has happened to Americans, when did they become so weak ethically, morally. And those of you who are protesting the death - I am there with you. But those of you burning buildings down and stealing stuff you are worthless, you are criminals. You have no voice. To the City who knew about this police officers prior complaints against him and did nothing - that is not acceptable. Blood is on your hands. I hate the statement, but in this case it is very true. Again I ask, where is our ethics in life? Would you have done something? Ask that question to yourself, would you have done something?
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A lot of you have been sitting in front of the media stations on cable and have heard nothing but content to make you afraid. They are driving this fear havoc into your life where fear has become a habit. Kick the habit. This is a virus, it knows how to infect, and no matter how safe you are it can get you. So you have to live with the fact that if you are practicing good hygiene you are doing something positive, but if you are sitting there like a scared rabbit, afraid to move because you think you are going to get sick, then you will not go on with life. Focus on life, find a way to fight your fears. I have worked in the Philippines, a third world country, where people are afraid of going to the hospital because they are afraid to die, when that hospital is there to keep them alive. But they have been taught to be afraid. If you are afraid find a way to stop the habit of fear, kick the habit, and go on with life.
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On this memorial day we remember those who have served, those who have fallen. We remember the families who have lost a loved on, you are in our prayers. But on this memorial day we remember we are Americans and we are United in any battle that comes to us. Remember at all times that we are Americans, this is not a day for politics, but instead a day of love and admiration of fellow Americans that have served our great nation.
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From the start of this Corona virus we have been making bad policy based on bad data. At the very beginning the numbers have never added up. Many people have questioned this data and no answer given. Governors and local government followed the bad data and locked down their states, destroying jobs, people's financial conditions, businesses going out of business. They did not question the data, instead they just went forward through a power play and locked down their states. The damage done by this shut down is far greater then the virus itself.
Doctors in Northern California say they have seen more deaths from suicide than they've seen from the coronavirus during the pandemic. "The numbers are unprecedented," Dr. Michael deBoisblanc of John Muir Medical Center in Walnut Creek, California, told ABC7 News about the increase of deaths by suicide, adding that he's seen a "year's worth of suicides' in the last four weeks alone. People in lockdown that could not take it any longer, sitting their losing everything they had built, or individuals who had mental health conditions that couldn't get their regular counseling and treatments. Government has to be held accountable for making bad decisions that has done such great harm to Americans all over this great land.
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We have seen over the past months where Governments have overstepped their legal responsibilities and attacked our constitutional rights as businesses. Business constitutional rights are the rights of any company or business formed in the United States, which are afforded by the United States Constitution. Remember, the rules of the Constitution are meant to regulate Congress, not businesses or citizens. However, Congress and governments forget that they are regulated by the constitution. We as businesses need to use the constitution as our weapon against government. If you have any questions send me a text 818.252.5682
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When I woke up this morning and read the news I felt that the American people have lost control of our federal and state governments. Corruption runs rampant, illegal activities are out of control, the real rule of law has been replaced with a political rule of law, and politicians keep throwing money out the door. We Americans have got to remove politicians and take back our nation before we have a real civil war on our hands. Action is required by the American people. Send me your comments to 818 252.5682. WWW.LODGE-CO.COM
The CDC has come out with a good recommendation to write, develop and implement a good Health Plan for cleaning and disinfecting your businesses work spaces. The link is below:
www.cdc.gov/coronavirus/2019-ncov/community/pdf/reopening_america_guidance.pdf
This link will take you to a PDF form that shows you what you should be looking at in developing your plan to reopen your business, it is a guidance for cleaning and disinfecting for public spaces, workplaces, businesses, schools, and homes. It is a good source. Now you are going to write your own plan based on this CDC guidance, but you will also have to talk about staying at home when employees feel sick or have a fever. You will have to look at your state employment rules to help you remain in compliance. Get to writing and working with your HR departments or you as a business owner to put your plans into place. Every business needs a plan and now cleaning and disinfecting should be part of your operating plan.
If you have any questions or want me to send you the link, send me a text to 818.252.5682 www.lodge-co.com
I have this conversation a lot on my podcast and with clients, how is your business health? We are going through a crisis that has affected every single business in the United States and worldwide. Businesses have been hit hard by the hand of Government and forced so many businesses to stay home. After Corona we now have to get back to work and we have to examine our financial health daily. We have a lot of work that needs to get done and going forward. We have to always operate as if another crisis could happen at any time. We have to live conservatively in all that we do. Business is not just about what is in your bank account, it is about how well your operating and planning. Every business will go through a crisis, you kind of know what could happen depending on what industry you are in. Plan for it, train for it, do better at training your staff on ethics, and much more. Become a better coach to your employees. To be a good business leader you plan for a crisis.
If you need help, if you want to sit down and scrub your numbers, send me a text to 818.252.5682 www.lodge-co.com
READ MY BOOKS: I have written three books that are on Amazon. Ethically Thinking, It Isn't That Hard, Daily Strategy, and Corona (humor). You can follow me on www.amazon.dom
https://www.amazon.com/kindle-dbs/entity/author/B07L5R3PSN?_encoding=UTF8&node=283155&offset=0&pageSize=12&searchAlias=stripbooks&sort=author-sidecar-rank&page=1&langFilter=default#formatSelectorHeader
Hayden was 12 years old, about ready to turn 13. Stuck in isolation from the lockdown made him do something no parent would ever think would happen. He went up to his room and hung himself. Isolation from the lockdown created a mental health condition that made him choose to take his life. Isolation from a lockdown demanded by government politicians. This virus and the bad decision to lockdown has created so much damage to our people. Businesses going under, no money coming into families, people sitting in lines at food banks, mental health issues being ignored, and the list goes on. Every Governor that imposed this lockdown has destroyed people's lives and need to be held accountable. Businesses, rise up, open up, and get back to business. Pastors, rise up, open up, and get back to preaching and ministering. Politicians, stay out of Americans way, we no longer trust you and it is time for you to answer for what you have done.
If anyone need to talk to someone, my zoom line is open, send me a text to 818.252.5682 and I will send you a link to my zoom line. I am here to talk. If you are in business, and need advice or direction, talk with me. I am here for you. www.lodge-co.com
Small businesses throughout the United States are in high levels of pain because of the government shutdown, the lockdown. The pain is so great that a good portion of small business do not qualify for the PPP or unemployment. States technology of handling unemployment claims for independent contractors are way out of date they can't keep up with the volume. Their survival rate has not so good at the moment. This podcasts go over that pain and what needs to happen. Unlock American businesses. If you have any questions or comments, send me a text at 818.252.5682 www.lodge-co.com
Corona virus and the actions of Governments have forced you to shut down your business. Some of you have been able to survive and overs will need to shut their business down because there is zero cash flow for them to survive, but expenses continue every day. Closing your business can be a difficult choice to make. It is helpful to seek advice from your accountant, lawyer or business expert, along with other business professionals. You have to make that decision to close. Sole proprietors can decide on their own, but any type of partnership requires the co-owners to agree. Follow your articles of organization and document with a written agreement on your decision to shut down and who will be responsible. This podcasts goes through the steps to help you shut down and remain in compliance. If you need help or have questions, send me a text to 818.252.5682 www.lodge-co.com
Our freedoms are slowly being taken away by a virus. Google, YouTube, Facebook are starting to sensor what you can and can not say. If they disagree with your views or postings they now delete them and note that your post doesn't meet their standards of how they believe. There are politicians that love this. Main stream outlets are happy about this because it shuts down people from expressing their dissent. The two Doctors who dissented through a video posted on social media with how the government is handling the virus was taken down by YouTube because it did not go along with the World Health Organizations views. Not the United States position, but the World Health Organization. We have a problem with organizations shut down your dissent, your speech, your views. Constitutionally they are wrong.
Know your rights under the Constitution and protect yourself. It clearly states that Congress shall make no law respecting an establishment of religion, or prohibiting the FREE exercise thereof; or abridging the freedom of speech, or of the press; or the right of the people eaceably to assemble, and to petition the Government for a redress of grievances.
If you have any questions or comments, send me a text to 818.252.5682 www.lodge-co.com
Remember what the President said when he was running for President and all of his rallies that he would always protect business, jobs and farmers. Remember that? I do and I want you to know that what I am seeing now is a spinless President that has bent over and let the Democrats and Bureaucrats take over and completely destroy this nations economy, small business and our healthcare system. Hospitals are sitting empty. Businesses are failing and going out of business. Farmers are ordered to destroy their milk and animals, and yet imported meats are being brought into the United States. What happened to this President that use to stand up for the American people and now he and the Governors are willing to destroy the lives of healthy Americans. Taking away their right to worship in their churches. Facebook is censoring speech. And business owners are now hungry and waiting in food bank lines. What happened to this President? He has kicked business to the side and become a Benedict Donald. If you have any questions or comments, send me a text to 818.252.5682
BUY A BOOK - I have three books on www.amazon.com - Daily Strategy, Corona (humor) and Ethically Thinking by Michael Lodge.
If you own a business, and you are under lockdown, there are proactive areas of your business you should be working on right now. When the red light turns green to reopen businesses in the United States, we should be ready if we have been proactive. Let's look at our survival as if going to war. What areas do you need to stress to get back up and running. This podcast goes over what businesses should be doing right now. If you have any questions, send me a text to 818.252.5682 visit my website at www.lodge-co.com
During this lock down period you have the best opportunity to sit down and work with employees on coaching. I have been talking to you in my podcasts about ramping up your business in preparation for the green light for us to go back to our offices and businesses. One process you should be doing is looking at the employees you are going to bring back and begin coaching them. You know their strengths but you need to work on their weaknesses and talk about your plan to ramp up. If you have no plan, if your not working on the key people you are bringing back through coaching, you will have a rough rampup. If you don't know how to coach go onto Linkedin and take their free classes. Encourage your employees to take these classes online. Maybe do one a week of online learning. But you have the ability to learn how to coach. Then begin coaching. If you are not coaching your staff then you probably should not be in management. Your team is not all about you. Understand that and you will do something to be a better leader through coaching. If you have questions send me a text at 818.252.5682 www.lodge-co.com
BUY A BOOK: Go to my website at www.lodge-co.com and buy one of my three books. Read during the lock down.
American had a great economy. We were at the top of the world as a global economy We were the leaders. Then the Corona virus came from China, China lied about the virus, WHO did nothing, and then Government paniced and the American people went into hiding in their homes. This lockdown created a bigger economic problem that we will have to rebuilt over the coming years. It will take time for small business to rebuild. We allowed a virus to destroy an economy because of bad numbers going into their predictions. Remember, first the CDC said over 2,000,000 people would die, then it went down to 200,000 and then down to 60,000, and as of today the number is way way below what was originally predicted that caused panic. Now it is time for us to go back to opening our businesses and getting back to the task of rebuilding our economy. If we don't do it soon even more small businesses will die.
I have two new books on Amazon that I have written - Corona, Remember When and Daily Strategy, Mediating Business and Life Go to my website at www.lodge-co.com and the links are there to the books. Read a book!
If you have any questions or need to talk, send me a text to 818.252.5682 www.lodge-co.com
Mr. President, reopen the economy of the nation, let small businesses and people get back to work. Not tomorrow, today.
"Start by doing what's necessary; then do what's possible; and suddenly you are doing the impossible." We have got to get back on track, the longer America is on lockdown the greater damage we do to this great nation - based on fear and panic. Open up our nation, our economy, our businesses, our jobs today. No more delays. We as a nation are willing to do this together. We are Americans.
If you need to talk send me a text with the words "Talk" to 818.252.5682 and I will schedule time to talk between the hours of 5:00 p.m. to 10:00 p.m. Eastern Time. www.lodge-co.com
Everyone that has had to live through this lockdown for Covid-19 has had a lot of downtime. How have you spent your time? I have received many emails from people telling me how they have done things to better themselves, create cash, and by helping others. They are amazing stories by amazing people all around the world. Time well spent is a blessing to you and to others. We also have the matter of politicians playing politics, Nancy is so proud of how much Ice Cream she has in her home and ignores how Americans are suffering during this shutdown. Worse story I have ever seen is a politician having her ice cream and ignores the pain of Americans. The most disgusting political statement ever. Americans, small businesses, are trying to survive and ask that the economy be reopened before more harm is done to this great nation called America. I am personally so proud of Americans who are standing up and saying, "Let me work again".
People need to start talking again, they need that interaction with people. They need to tell their story and their pain. I am opening my zoom line to give people the ability to talk with me from 5 p.m. to 10:00 p.m. eastern time. Send me a text to 818.252.5682 and text "TALK" and I will respond with a time and a link to my zoom conference room and we will talk. Open to anyone with the feeling they would like to get things off their chest. Let's talk.
Human beings have been shut down, locked in, their homes for way too long. Those with mental health issues have a problem. Human beings not being able to socialize with other people have problems. Suicides have gone up, relapse into drugs have gone up, and the mental health patients have had a problem reaching out to their mental health professional. Lockdown is very bad for our mental and physical issues. We need to do better, all of us need to know there are people available to talk to. You need to reach out to people who need to talk. If you have questions or comments, let me know by texting me at 818.252.5682 www.lodge-co.com
Crisis breads conflict. The stress of economic uncertainty and dislocation caused by CV-19 are only outpaced by the anxiety many feel for the safety of their loved ones. In these difficult times, conflict management specialists are increasingly called upon to assist in both formal and informal ways. Mediation works to resolve conflict. If you need help or have questions, send a text to 818.252.5682 www.lodge-co.com
You are going to be judged on how well you managed your business during the lockdown and what you do once the lockdown has been lifted. You need to have looked at your business and put together a plan of action once you are able to reopen your business. You have time to develop a business plan, be proactive and get a plan in place. If you have any questions, send me a text to 818.252.5682 www.lodge-co.com
In a few days, or weeks, we will be given the go ahead by the President to allow us to open our business doors. During the mean time we need to start planning for a ramp up to start again. This episode goes over what needs to happen to begin to plan to open your doors. If you have any questions, send me a text to 818.252.5682 www.lodge-co.com
Read my new books on Amazon.com - Daily Strategy, Mediating Business and Life and Corona, Remember When? by Michael Lodge
At a moment in our nation when people are sick and dying from a virus the politicians decide to play politics. People die and Democrats play politics, want committees, want to attack and destroy. Most unethical politicians in the history of this nation. Businesses are going out of business because government has told them to shut down and send their employees into lock down, and businesses layoff or shut down completely. Businesses do not get help from Government. Only businesses can help business and the economy. If you have any questions or comments, send me a text at 818.252.5682 www.lodge-co.com
As an ordained minister I will use my podcast this Sunday to talk about prayer, the Grace of God, and knowing you are not alone. There is someone in this world that is braying for you. God has not forgotten, he is expecting a prayer from you, his line is open. If you have a prayer request send me a text to 818.252.5682 and I will pray for you. God bless everyone around this great big world on this Sunday.
Every single day the media spouts and spins hate and bad news. They want to see America fail because of this virus and blame it on the President. They want to make it racist. They want to report bad stories that have no basis, they screw up the numbers to support their own media political agenda. They are reporting the news, instead they are pushing a hate filled agenda to destroy America and the President. I would suggest, turn off the news. Every single news outlet are doing the same reporting of doom and gloom. Limit your news intake, look at the CDC and get better numbers. What the media says is news is far from it. Turn them off.
Now, if you are a overseas foreign worker stationed in the UAE, Dubai, and you need someone to talk to through this healthcare crisis. Through April 20th 2020. To talk with me you can book time on www.calendly.com/mlodge and we will have a zoom chat. This is free, nothing is being sold, it is all about you have a source to talk to. Let it out. Get it off your chest. If you have any questions send me a text to 818.252.5682 www.lodge-co.com
Businesses and employees need to get back to work, and we can do that safely. If all of us who own businesses sit down and write a virus healthcare directive, in compliance with the CDC protocols, we can know what everyone has to do within the office to have good health practices to attack this virus. We have to be very proactive. We need to start planning the reopening of our business and that the virus healthcare directive are in place and understood by everyone. If you need help, send me a text at 818.252.5682
China has announced there is a new virus spreading across China called the Hantavirus. So the question is - how will governments address this with China? All government should be locking down China until they fix their problem. Americans and businesses in the United States can't continue to be locked down with every virus that attacks us. Government has to attack the virus by not allowing China to have access to the world until they take care of their healthcare and virus issues in their country. Also, businesses need to be proactive and start planning their ramp up for opening our businesses. We also have to write a healthcare objective on how we handle viruses inside our offices and businesses. We have to be the ones in charge of the health inside our offices. Employees need to know that we are watching out for them and we are all working together on the health of the business. Not just financial health but the health of everyone in the business. You have time to put your ramp up business plan and healthcare directive in place. Get to work. If you have any questions send Michael a text to 818.252.5682 www.lodge-co.com
I was really pleased to hear the President say that Businesses need to reopen their doors and get back to business. We as business owners can't sustain being closed and failure. However, we as businesses need to sit down in the next couple of days and write our business Healthcare Directive. Meaning, following the CDC and other sources to set some rules in our offices on how we will handle viruses, sicknesses, fevers, and other issues. If we act proactive we can help protect our employees and clients. Let's write our healthcare directives and get going. Also, you need to sit down and start planning on opening the doors, ramp up on bringing people back with specific objectives in mind. Plan your business ramp up. If you have any questions, send me a text at 818.252.5682 www.lodge-co.com
Democratic leader Shumer continues to hold up the desperately-needed relief package, the last-minute list of demands from Pelosi's and Schumer's ideological wish list are coming into focus. Below are some of the new, non-coronavirus-related demands that popped up after Speaker Pelosi flew back from San Franciscoo yesterday after taking a week off:
1) Unprecedented collective bargaining powers for Unions.
2) Increased fuel emissions standards for airlines
3) Expansion of wind and solar tax credits.
Not only are these completely unrelated to the coronovirus epidemic, they could prevent companies from participating in the loan programs altogether - directly causing layoffs. Layoffs have already started. Small businesses are calling their employees telling them they can no longer make payroll, it has already started. But the Democrats don't care, instead they push a political agenda and kick the American people to the side. If you have any comments send me a text to 818.252.5682 www.lodge-co.com
With the Corona virus in the United States and throughout the world, many of us may experience a financial hit. You're going to have to do some budgeting and set priorities. I like the approach were we identify and list the top 4 priorities ou have to address first above all.
FOOD - UTILITIES - SHELTER - TRANSPORTATION
DO NOT PANIC - REMAIN CALM - PLAN
If you have any comments or questions, text them to 818.252.5682 www.lodge-co.com
Everyone that have been panicked, scared, should adopt the 30 minute rule of watching news each day. 30 minutes is all you need. The more you watch the news media and spend all day watching it, the more panicked you become. Stop it!. There is no food shortage. There is no shortage of Toilet paper. You have people around you that are willing to help you. Stores are open. Cars are still running. Life continues to move on, move on with it. Those communities where your government has overreached, tell them to stop. Allow businesses to get back up and running. Small businesses can't sustain these kinds of losses in business. Employees can't remain idle and think they no longer have a job. Get businesses back up and running. If you have any questions or comments, text me at 818.252.5682 If you have a need, send me a prayer request and I will pray for you. www.lodge-co.com
Happy Saint Patrick's day to all of us who want to be Irish for one day. Today is a day where we celebrate and remember the Irish, how they came to this nation of America and added value to our country. Remember the Irish saying and understand their strength.
May the luck of the Irish be with you!
If you want praise, die. If you want blame, marry.
A man may live after losing his life but not after losing his honor.
All the world's a stage and most of us are desperately unrehearsed
And the saying go on and on. The Irish had a long history of being a fighting people. I ask you, in this virus panic crisis, where is our fighting spirit? Anywhere in the world, have you lost your fighting spirit? Get it back. Stop the panic mode and get into the fighting mode. You have work to do. Shut off CNN, Fox News, MSNBC because they have done more damage to nations by their pushing the panic story. Shut them out of your sign and sound, know your health precautions and put them into practice, but stop listening to pushers of panic. If you have any questions or comments, send me a text to 818.252.5682 www.lodge-co.com
There are so many places you can go to be proactive in education of yourself on the virus. Be proactive and know the precautions you should be doing all the time. We should be doing this daily, we live in an international community where people are traveling across borders and people that have access to travel across the United States. We are a moving society and need to be proactive in our personal healthcare habits. It is up to us. But going into a panic mode does nothing except make you look foolish. Follow the healthcare rules and you will make it through. www.cdc.gov/coronavirus is the website to go to. Be Proactive and not a person that panics - take control over your healthcare habits. If you have any questions send me a text to 818.252.5682 www.lodge-co.com
The California Assembly have bills that have been submitted. AB850 - employers must give employees a week in advance their work schedule for the next 21 days. No business can do this, they don't know what their needs are 21 days out. AB2070 forces everyone in California to vote, you have to turn in a ballot, you have to show up. AB826 prohibits stores from separating boys and girls clothing or products. If you do you will be faced with a fine. AB873 says that if you make a product, let's say it is razors or male and female. One razor may be silver for men, another one pink for women. Now it may cost a more to paint the razor pink. However, both razors have to be priced at the same price. Now he question is why does government have to tell businesses what to do or how to price their products? That turns a capitalist into a socialist. California has become 100% socialist and pushing a socialist agenda to control every thing that a business does. California has politicians that are causing so much damage to the state and they don't care. They want to tell you exactly what you can and can't do. The legislature has designed a way to drive businesses out of California, in fact they will even drive you to the border - and tax you for it. When are Californians going to stand up to the State Legislature and say enough and vote them out of office? Don't you think it is about time or don't you care? Care, because the laws being voted on in Sacramento is going to kill your business at some point in the near future. Either move out or do something. If you have any questions or comments, send me a text to 818.252.5682. www.lodge-co.com
Cases of the COVID-19 or coronavirus as we incorrectly call it have topped 100,000 world-wide with more than 3400 deaths reported. Companies are telling their workers to stay home and work, sporting events no longer have audiences, the stock market has lost more then $5 trillion dollars. Governments are calling for calm, only 1% of those infected are likely to die from the virus. There is no need for self-imposed quarantine. Food supplies will not run dry. But the advice falls on deaf ears. And the media, who is the blame for all this panic, continues to create panic on the United States.
I read this good advice - Forget the crises of the day. Fr the sake of your company's long-term health, break out of the state of fear and paralysis that is gripping the world and focus on nuturing the kind of productivity that will see you through to the other side. Grab the bull by the horns - just be sure to wash your hands. If you have a comment or questions, send a text to 818.252.5682 www.lodge-co.com
Today we got the economic report for February, unemployment drops down to 3.5%, Wages rose for workers across the board, and the US added 273,000 jobs in February, vs 175,000 expected. Wall Street still has a down market because they are scared of the virus. The rest of the country is creating more jobs and Wall Street moves the markets down into the negatives. Get your act together Wall Street. The nation is strong and your scare tactics in stocks is not helping the economy. If you have any questions send a text to 818.252.5682 www.lodge-co.com
Once again we start seeing Bernie Sanders begin to spin as to why he is losing to Biden. He knows that his free stuff and socialist is not being accepted by the American people so he begins spinning. Instead of being pro-active and trying to do better he points fingers. Same happened with Hillary she spun and is continue to spin four years after she lost. So the spin begins and we as Americans understand what we want but Bernie only sees his political agenda. If you have any questions send me a text to 818.252.5682
Remember it is all about the delegate numbers. Super Tuesday was full of surprises, however the message was clear. NO to socialism. The only states that said yes were very liberal states. As I have been saying, if you voted for Bernie Sanders you are a Socialist - not a Democrat. But the states that Sanders should have won said no, they want a leader that is not a socialist. After they add up all of the delegates for California the delegate count for both Sanders and Biden will be just about even. After all of us staying up at night watching this election, we still have no leader. It is between two individuals, a socialist and a liberal. Warren could not even win her own state, which is a good sign for her to end her campaign, same with Bloomberg. But the message America is telling Sanders - no to Socialism. If you have a comment send me a text to 818.252.5682 www.lodge-co.com
Super Tuesday today, big votes for all the Democratic candidates. If California Democrats give Bernie Sanders all their delegates, does it turn California full on socialist? Watch California today. Text me at 818.252.5682
Assemblyman Kevin Kiley introduced AB1928 to repeal AB5 that has done so much damage to small businesses and gig businesses. However, Democrats in the Assembly stopped the bill, 50 to 15. Democrats admit there is something wrong with the law and is going to make changes to it, but with those changes come more requirements. Adding nonsense to an already worthless bill. Democrats know there is a problem and there are 30 bills wanting to make changes to an already bad bill. So they know it is a bad bill but refuse to repeal it because they will lose tax money. AB5 was so badly written and the Dems know it but will not help Californians to fix it or repeal it. Lorane Gonzalez who wrote the bill is such a bad politician because she is tied to so many special interest groups, especially the unions. She is bought and paid for by the special interest groups and this does damage to Californians. California needs change in Sacramento, people have got to start voting these individuals out. If an politician in California has a "D" by their name, and they are not working for Californians, vote them out of office. It is time for changeand it has to happen starting in November.
If you live in Sacramento, vote Pelosi out of office and put in John Dennis (www.realjohndennis.com), if you are in Adam Shiffs district, vote him out and put in Eric Early. If you start chipping away at the top and work down, then the message will be heard loud and clear. But it has to start this 2020 elections. Let's make a change, it has to happen before the whole state is destroyed. Text me at 818.252.5682 www.lodge-co.com
Socialism is socialism. There is no such thing as Democratic Socialism, these two words don't even go together. They are both opposites. You can't put bright red lipstick on a pig and expect it to look better, it doesn't work. Bernie Sanders can't even tell us how he is going to pay for it. So he produces a piece of paper that was suppose to tell us how we was going to pay for this free stuff. Then when you look at the number nothing adds up. Why in the world would any American vote for something when they can't even explain how much it is going to pay for it. Would you buy a new car not knowing all the fees, the interest rates, all the hidden costs? If you do your an idiot. You want to know how much it is going to cost you. Because if you don't it will be a disaster to you and you will start hating that new car. Americans, use some commonsense. You students that wanted an education, you made the choice to sign on that contract to take out a student loan. That was your choice, not my choice. Since you made that choice you have to pay for it. Instead of being ethical in your obligations you run to Bernie Sanders and the other Democratic candidates because they are offering to wipe that debt away. A lot of that loan money was federal money, not one of those candidate can just wipe it away, it will never get through Congress. In fact all of this free stuff Bernie is offering you has to go through Congress and the Senate, it will never get passed. It is all a pipe dream that you are falling for. That is what socialism does, it makes promises and takes away your freedom of choice and democracy. And you are falling for it. Where is your commonsense?
If you have a comment or question, send me a text to 818.252.5682 www.lodge-co.com
As I look at the Real Clear Politics poll Biden is up by 3 points ahead of Sanders. This election in South Carolina are going to tell us where the Democrats are leaning. Are they Socialist or those that believe in a free market democracy. Where do South Carolinian's stand politically as Democrats? South Carolina is pretty much a republican state, there are Democrats there but where do they stand? I still have a home in South Carolina so I am watching this state with intense wonder. If you have a question or comment, send me a text to 818.252.5682 www.lodge-co.com
Sanders is ahead in the Democratic polls. He is not even a Democrat, he is not even a socialist, he is right on the edge of being a communist. If Sanders were applying for a Cabinet post, he would never pass an FBI background check. When he attended the University of Chicago, Sanders joined the Young People's Socialist League, the youth wing of the Socialist Party USA. He organized communist events and was a front, the United Packinghouse Workers Union, that was under investigation by the House Committee on Un-American Activities. He headed the American People's History Society, hat is an organ for marxist propaganda. The produced a documentary on the life of socialist revolutionary Eugene Debs, who was jailed for espionage during the Red Scare and hailed by the Bolsheviks as "America's greatest Marxist." Bernie has made a lot of promises to give American's free stuff, but that stuff comes with a prices and it is call socialist marxist views on controlling the American people. Bernie should be considered an enemy of the people, not a friend, not a leader. Bernie will take this country, our freedoms and destroy them because he believes in an elite form of government where he takes control of every process of living. That is scary and unaccaptable to the American people.
I am a capitalist and I am proud of it. Capitalism has been a success and socialism - in any form - has failed. Capitalism is the best economic and social system in which you and I participate every single day. It is free market competition, not a form of central government and it's regulating bodies, who dictate everything. Under capitalism everyday prices and wages are determined by the business forces of supply and demand, not by what a government says it will be. Under Capitalism you and I can be whatever we want to be, take any risk, build, grow, determine our own futures. Socialism in all forms wipes that away because the government and the elite feel they know better. The law of the land gets wiped away because the socialist believes their way is right, democracy goes away and you and I get no say. That is Socialism. If you have any questions or comments, send me a text at 818.252.5682
Mayor Pete, who is running for President, made a judgement against Christians that support President Trump. He could not find anything biblical that would allow Christians to support President Trump. In his judgement he forgot to remind himself that in his support of abortion that God has spoken in one single verse of the commandment 6 - THOU SHALT NOT KILL. So his judgement on Trump supporters he should be looking at himself and why would people support a man that says it is ok to kill through abortion. So before you judge, make sure you are following God's teaching before laying judgement on other Christians. You have decided that your political views outweigh your biblical beliefs. Political agenda's are very dangerous when it kills. If you have any questions, send me a text to 818.252.5682 www.lodge-co.com
I love this economy we have in America. In fact the world is looking in and saying "Wow". The U.S. has retained its position of being the worlds largest economy since 1871. We are a young contry and we are the leader. The United States has 23.6% of the global economy, china has 15.5%, Japan has 5.7%, and then everything is with the other countries. You and I are walking through the best time in years as a country and people. So why are the democrats wimpering about the economy? Why are they so negative about how well American's are now doing? Well the answer is that they don't know how to do it. They have never run or built anything, they are out of touch with the American people. That is the root of the problem. If you have any questions or comments, send me a text at 818.252.5682 www.lodge-co.com
The Democrats have become incompetent, I am at a place where I do not know what their party stands for. Do they stand for America or do they stand for Socialism and hate? Their economic plan is not understandable, they don't even know how much it is going to cost Americans. Sanders said, "I Don't Know How Much It Will Cost". You have Mayor Pete that has a bad record of running a city and bad relations with his own police department, he called them racist. Warren jumps all over the place depending what group she is talking to. I still havn't forgotten she thinks she is Indian. Bloomberg is now tossing the idea out to bring in Clinton as his VP running mate, the women who called every American deplorable. Biden, who knows what he thinks. Biden has so much political baggage that if he were elected the first day he would be impeached. And all of the other candidates are worthless, they do not have a message for America, they just have a political agenda that doesn't do anything to build the confidence from Americans. We know what Trump stands for, but the Democrats I don't see a message that loves America. If you have any comments send a text to 818.252.5682
I have come to the conclusion that it is worthless to monitor the news media and their reporting of the Democratic elections. They state that Bernie is the clear leader, however the numbers say differently. If you look at the NPR site that records the amount of delegates each candidate has it show a clear tie in delegates. Those are the numbers you have to look at. Right now Pete has 22 delegates and Sanders has 21. How is that ahead for Sanders? It isn't, it is a tie. In New Hamshire they tied with nine delegates going to Pete and Bernie. There is no leader. This is going to probably be a brokerage Democratic Convention. If you have any questions or comments, send me a text to 818.252.5682 www.lodge-co.com
Consumer debt is about $19 trillion dollars. The average personal debt is up to $38,000, credit card debt is 25% of all debt, 2 in 10 Americans spend 50% - 100% of their monthly income on debt repayment. Where the money going? 15% goes to dinning, 14% gotes to clothing and personal care, and 13% goes to personal passions or hobbies. The economy is good and people and spending more - badly. They are using their credit cards but not paying down their debt. Income inequality happens when people are not managing their finances wisely. You are not being good stewards of your money. So year, debt stops your savings, stops you from getting ahead, or to live on what you make. Debt creates more debt, it never makes you a millionaire. Focus on paying down your debt while the economy is good and strong. Use it to your advantage. If you have any questions, send me a text to 818.252.5682 www.lodge-co.com
If you are in San Francisco, support John Dennis who is running against Nancy Pelosi for Congress. It is time to remove Nancy from office. Go to his website at www.realjohndennis.com
SB5 was passed in 2019 and went into effect January 2020 that affects the gig community and all independent contractors in the State of California. Assembly members in the State Legislature have heard from many angry Californians and have drafted SB1928 that relines most of the original bill. However, they added a new line that says if you a licensed profession you now have to get a contractors license. What do they mean by contractors license? No explanation in the bill as to what it is. So they are trying to help small business people however what is a contractors license? Do you have to sit for a test? Or is it just a form you fill out with the state and pay a fee for a contractors license? I have sent a message to the writer of the bill for clarification. Read the bill by going to the California website of the Assembly where you can type in SB1928 and read it. If you have any questions, send me a text at 818.252.5682 www.lodge-co.com
Mediation works. It is an effective means of resolving disputes, for any dispute not requiring a judicial or third party determination. It provides a forum and an atmosphere in which parties gain understanding, become understood, and work together to explore options for resolution. By resolving disputes in mediation, parties determine for themselves what is important and, ultimately the outcome of the situation. While the benefits of mediation vary somewhat depending upon the nature of the dispute, and model of mediation applied. In this episode we go over some of the benefits typically associated with mediation. If you need mediation send me a text to 818.252.5682 www.lodge-co.com
"Listen to advice and accept discipline, and at the end you will be counted among the wise - Proverbs 19:20
If you have a comment or question, text me at 818.252.5682 www.lodge-co.com
Yesterday there were some terminations at the White House. We were warned about it about a week ago, no surprise but politicians are turning this story into a political spin. Pelosi came out with a statement in support of Vidman, in fact the majority of the Democrats did the same. However, there is are always two sides of a story. Vidman was NOT fired, he still has his job, all of his benefits, because he still works for the Military, just not at the White House. The President waited until the Impeachment was Acquitted to let him go from the National Security staff at the White House. So question the political spin. In fact, I suggest that we all really listen to what politicians say, there is never truth being said, it is a part of a story or spin. Question everything, don't be a lamb that follows, be a bull and lead by questioning everything. If you have any questions or statements, send me a text to 818.252.5682 www.lodge-co.com
Politics at the federal and state levels can affect your business and your financial lives. If you don't pay attention to what is going on you can get hurt - greatly. You have to be aware, get involved. Get involved. The State of California passed a law called AB5 that has hurt small business people greatly. They created a law to get rid of all of the independent contractors and make them employee so they can bring more tax revenue into the state. There are bills going through Congress that will hurt America greatly. Look at the laws that AOC want to create on immigration, it is a disaster and will destroy this nation. Get involved and fight against bad politicians, it is time to clean out the house. Anyone running for Congress with a D by the name, they need to be voted out. Get involved, because bills and laws that are passed without your voice will hurt the American people.
I am endorsing John Dennis for Congress to replace Nancy Pelosi. He is a proud husband and father, Chairman SF Republican Party, Vice Chair, Republican Liberty Caucus, Businessman and Dog person. Go to his website at www.johndennis.com and click on the volunteer icon, get involved, and vote out Pelosi - it is time for change. Help John Dennis to take back Nancy Pelosi seat in San Francisco.
If you have any questions or comments, send me a text to 818.252.5682 www.lodge-co.com
The Acquittal is over. Stop the hate. Do something and accomplish something that will help someone else. And find people running for office who have accomplished something. If they haven't accomplished anything that means something, don't go with that person. If they haven't accomplished anything they are not going to accomplish anything in the future - for you. Stop sitting in front of cable news and getting mad and hating everyone. Watching hate drives you to hate. Stop the hate momentum and do something for your church, community, or program that will make a difference in your life and other peoples lives. Sitting around and hating just makes you an old snarled up old snail not going anywhere. If you are wasting time sitting around and calling people names on social media, just spinning what you have heard, have not really thought about something so you just follow, you are just going to get more filled with hate. Take the hate and do something that helps other and the hate will go away. Sit down with people that think differently then you, don't get mad, just listen. Remember the goal is to get up with a better understanding and leave as friends. Just because they don't agree with you it makes them racist. It just makes them a friend that thinks differently then you. How many friends have you lost because of hate filled politics? Probably a lot. So stop it. If you have any comments send me a text to 818.252.5682 www.lodge-co.com
I was inspired by the President's State of the Union message to the nation. Trump outlined what accomplishments have been done for the American people and what still needs to get done. However, on the Democratic side we saw angry hateful faces, sitting there, shaking their heads and mumbling hate. Not one stood up for the good things for America or for the ones who lost their lives, got scholarships, military united with their families, a President of a country fighting for his country. Not one stood up, hating everything American. We the people were watching and saw that Nancy Pelosi stood up, right behind the President of the United States, and tore up his speech in the face of Americans. This hate is no longer acceptable. Childish behavior from the Speaker shows that her hate is more important then the needs of the American people. This has got to stop. I have now realized that no Democrat should be President, no Democrat should be a member of Congress or the Senate, no Democrat should be the speaker of the House - until they stop hating, decide who they are as a party. This hate must be stopped by the American people by voting out hate. If you have any questions or comments, send me a text at 818.252.5682 www.lodge-co.com
The first day of the official and the Democrats screwed up their Iowa Caucus big time. The question is - if they can manage a caucus - how can they run a nation. Which is a very good question. Tonight we have the state of the union from President Trump. As an American I want to hear the good about America and what is coming to make American lives better. To make a nation better. If Democrats continue to push a hate driven agenda and not start working for Americans, then we will have a problem. Democrats, stop and start working with the Republicans, with the President. Over the next 100 days set an agenda that works for America, not against America. Work together. If you have any comments or concerns, send me a text to 818.252.5682
The economy had a great growth rate in 2019. For 2020 we see more growth because of the new trade agreements pushed through by President Trump. With all this good news we are still not united. We are still divided political hate, we are not united. In order to get this country stronger we have to get rid of those that continue to attack America and replace them that are for Americans. Party politics is a dangerous attack on this nation, that has to stop. If you have any comments send them through text to 818.252.5682 www.lodge-co.com
There may be several areas where you may be missing some deductions on your business tax return. You may also be over stating your expenses and under reporting your income. Documentation and being organized is important to protect you in an audit.
We also discuss the AB5 Rally in Sacramento held on January 29th at the State Capital.
If you have any questions, text me at 818.252.5682 www.lodge-co.com
Who we choose as President can affect our nations economy. The business community knows that if a socialist agenda were to be elected it would affect everything in the American economy. Business will do what they did when Obama was in office, where business was put on pause, but ten time more. Sanders wants to dismantle modern capitalism, which would include private equity. In short, burn down the house. Warren wants to "fix" modern capitalism, beliving private equity is one of its more broken pieces. She will put business in the driveway dumpster. However, business suspects that neither can beat Trump. Trump is pro-business, pro-American, totally different then Sanders and Warren trying to tear down business. It is very important that you understand that when you vote for President the person elected will either destroy or build their nation. Vote wisely. If you have any questions, send me a text to 818.252.5682 www.lodge-co.com
It's Monday, everyone had a weekend and now it is time to move forward to another week. Today, we are talking about Kobe Bryant, AB5 repeal, and knowing the history and story of our nation. If you have any questions, send me a text to 818.252.5682 www.lodge-co.com
California has again decided that tax money is more important to small businesses, those that use to have the right to work when they wanted to, take away their tax deductions, destroy their prior business relationships with a bill called AB5. California wants everyone to work as an employee because it brings in more taxes to the state of California. It needs to be repealed. It is forcing people to go out of business by losing contracts that they worked on before, they are losing their work. It is time that Californians rise up and take back their state. It is time to let the Assembly, Senate and Governor know that you are angry and it is time to repeal this law. Now I am in Palm Beach, Florida but I have clients that are being affected in California - so I am fighting for my clients. The gig and independent contractor economy was doing fine, there were already federal and state laws that allow small businesses to report their income and expenses, but California decided to destroy the small business community with AB5. If you have any questions or have a comment, send me a text to 818.252.5682 www.lodge-co.com
Assembly Bill 5 (AB5) is killing small business, those that use to work part time, or in the Gig community. California has become so thirsty for tax money they created AB5 to turn everyone into a W2 wage earner. This bill was written by Assemblywomen Lorane Gonzalez who first attacked companies like Uber, Lift and other gig companies. But then she included everyone in every industry, just so she can get more tax money into the State of California. So how does she do it, she attacks everyone trying to start a business or in the gig earning community. This is a socialist state action, to have control over everyone. If you have any questions or comments, send me a text at 818.252.5682 www.lodge-co.com
Today's podcast is about several discussions on what is happening in our nation politically and our constitution. We have so many issues hitting our nation that affects our country, our constitution, and our own personal daily lives. If you have any questions or comments, send me a text to 818.252.5682 www.lodge-co.com
MLK said, "Intelligence plus character - that is the goal of true education." He wrote that in the "The Purpose of Education" from Morehouse College student newspaper in 1947. He spoke a lot about education because he saw how important it was for a strong America. "If we are not careful, our colleges will produce a group of close-minded, unscientific, illogical propagandists, consumed with immoral acts. Be careful, 'Brethren!' Be careful, teachers!" and we didn't listen to him because that is where our education system is at the moment. Spend some time today, pull up on the internet the quotes of Martin Luther King and put them into practice today - 2020. If you have any questions or comments, send me a text to 818.252.5682 www.lodge-co.com
I am still working on AB5 Over the last few days I have been working on getting clarifications on AB5 as it relates to independent contractors, licensed healthcare professionals. I wrote a letter to Assemblyman Philip Chen (R) in Orange County where my cient is located. Their response was not helpful and they gave me a link to a commercial website that is using AB5 to get business. So that was not helpful. I then responded with a lengthy view of the law and what needs to be changed. Two days ago I sent a letter to the California Labor Board and the Industrial Board to ask for clarification on the law. To this date - no response. I also sent an email to the Chief of Staff of Assemblywoman Lorane Gonzalez who is the writer of AB5. Direct your mail to her. To this date - no response. I also went online to the state legislative website where you can comment on bills. I left a comment - no response. It appears that the State of California wishes just to pass laws without hearing from Californians. However, I will keep fighting on this law. If you have any comments, send me a text at 818.252.5682 www.lodge-co.com
Democrats have been on the attack against Americans for almost 4 years now. They attacked the President with a political impeachment, they are demanding higher taxes, they are pushing a socialist political agenda. They have forgotten about middle America, the common sense Americans who look at right and wrong for America. Not political party, not political agenda, but what is good and bad for America. New York and California is not the only voice of Americans, but Democrats have lost the connectivity of middle America. This episode is about the impeachment trial and the socialist law called AB in California. If you have any questions or comments, send me a text to 818.252.5682 www.lodge-co.com
Too many times as business owners or leaders we focus on our weaknesses. However, I propose that focusing on what you and your company does the best is what you should be focusing on to grow the company. Let other people with the talent that covers your weaknesses, let them work on those issues. If you have any questions or comments, send me a text to 818.252.5682 www.lodge-co.com
As of January 1, 2020, anyone who works as an independent contractor in California a new law known as AB 5 will force companies to reclassify them as employees. This law, written by Assemblywomen Lorane Gonzalez has attacked and many people are loosing their side gig jobs, and even full time consulting jobs, because of this very badly written bill. The State was so thirsty for more tax dollars that they wrote a badly written bill that does harm to many individuals and families. Some companies have eliminated these gig jobs and that has hurt many Californians. This law needs to be repealed and done away with. This is what happens when you allow a government to become socialist in nature, it is the view of the government that taxes are vital to pay for all of the programs they need funding for. It is no longer about the people, instead it becomes only about the government, and that is where California is at now. If you have any questions or comments, send me a text to 818.252.5682 www.lodge-co.com
Tax season is about here. January 27th is the first day you can file your tax returns. Get your W-2's and 1099's ready. Make an appointment with your tax practitioner but get your documents ready. This episode is about information that can help you on dates and refunds. If you have any questions, send me a text to 818.252.5682 www.lodge-co.com
I am starting something new called, Something Fridays. This is open free subject day where I will talk about several subjects that I find interesting. We always need to talk about something of value. If you have any questions or comments, send me a text to 818.252.5682 www.lodge-co.com
Everyone that owns a business, big or small, should sit down each quarter and strategize for the next quarter. There are three things that you should be looking at. We will discuss that in this episode. If you have any questions or need help in strategy, text me at 818.252.5682 www.lodge-co.com
2020 is now here and a host of new laws that affect small businesses. Small business owners have a lot of changes to deal with and the new year begins. Higher labor costs for many companies, and some owners will discover that they have to comply with new laws that aren't on the books in their own states.
If you have any questions, send me a text at 818.252.5682 www.lodge-co.com
Over the weekend all we heard from Nancy Pelosi and all the Democrats on how bad it was to take out a terrorist that had attacked America. We were under attack, the President responded with force, it killed General Soleimani, second in command of Iran. He flew into Iraq to organize more attacks on American assets. The President did the right thing. But the astonishing thing is that the Democrats through their hate of Trump were trying to protect Soleimani. They cried, they said we were going into a third world war to scare Americans. They did not support America, they didn't try to protect America from Terrorist, instead they were in support of the Terrorist Soleimani. The President was right in his actions. There will not be a world war, no one has to sign up for the draft, we are not going to war. However, as a strong America we will respond to attacks from the terrorist nation of Iran. Pelosi is now trying to limit the President in responding to attacks on America. This is an act of power and corruption that we are seeing day by day in the Democratic party - hate for America. This has got to stop. Enough is enough. Americans have got to take back the Congress and eliminate the enemy within.
If you have any questions send a text to 818.252.5682 www.lodge-co.com
QBI is a new term for a lot of people, it stands for Qualified Business Income that may help you by 20% depending on if you can qualify. This podcasts talks about the QBI and how to qualify. If you have any questions, send me a text to 818.252.5682 www.lodge-co.com
Businesses need to look at new ways that will affect your business and how you can look to at new ways of doing things and to focus on the trends that will affect you. We have a lot to do that can grow our business. If you have any questions or comments, send me a text to 818.252.5682 www.lodge-co.com
There are a lot of new laws that affects people in business. Which means more compliance issues that everyone have to comply with, more red tape. Remain in compliance with these laws and find a way to not get out of compliance, it is expensive once you go out of compliance. If you have any questions or comments, send me a text to 818.252.5682 www.lodge-co.com
I will start with the news laws going into affect as of January 1, 2020 in the State of Florida, since this is where I am at. Tomorrow I will go through the new laws in California - the dumb state that has enacted laws that do a lot of damage.
If you have any questions or comments, send me a text to 818.252.5682 www.lodge-co.com
Around the world there are good luck rituals to bring good luck into the new year. Some of these I have done and some are new. Let's go over the items that may work for you to get you that good luck for 2020. If you have any questions, send me a text to 818.252.5682 www.lodge-co.com
The WSJ did an article this morning on the debt that the middle class has accumulated. They are spending above their means. They are not focused on thinking about other options before they buy and add debt onto it. Debt grows because people are not thinking. They want, they lust over stuff, and say to themselves - i can take out a loan or put it on my credit cards. It you are living beyond the amount of money you earn - you are stupid. 2020 everyone needs to sit down and look at their debt situation and work on paying it down, renegotiate it, sell off the item, but somehow - get rid of the debt. If you need help to attack debt, send me a text at 818.252.5682 or send me an email to info@lodge-co.com and tell me your story. www.lodge-co.com
Christmas is over and we are now into the final week of 2019. Didn't you find that the year went by so fast? It zoomed by, but I had a busy year and when you are so busy life goes by fast. Now we are in that final week of doing our planing for 2020. What are we going to build and accomplish in this new year? What are your goals? Did you plan out your budgets for the year? Do you have a career change in your plans? To tell you the truth, I can't wait for 2020 to begin. Let's build something!
If you have any questions or comments, send me a text to 818.252.5682 www.lodge-co.com
I wanted to do this short podcast, because I know you are busy with friends and family, just to say "Merry Christmas". I am so happy you have been with me for three years. 2020 will be the start of my fourth year podcasting. I wish each of you a great time this holiday season. You are in my heart and in my prayers.
Send me a text to 818.252.5682 www.lodge-co.com
The constitution is the foundation of laws. If Congress passes a law that is unconstitutional, the courts can come in and determine it's constitutionality. We need to know the constitution better. It is so vital that it drives all laws that Congress passes. It drives the judicial system, the tax systems, and many other issues in our country. Take some time to study the constitution, it is not a hard read.
If you have any questions or concerns, text me at 818.252.5682 www.lodge-co.com
Adam Schiff on MSNBC says he has found evidence to start the investigation on Pence. He has been given evidence. So, let's look at this. Trump gets impeached, they hold the impeachment papers to go to the Senate for Trial, and now they start investigating Pence. This is a coup. They want to take both the President and Vice President down and get rid of both of them at the same time. To have a coup you have to have a schemer. You have Pelosi and Schiff driving this scheme. Then they use everyone around them to propagandize the movement (the Congress). And then they slowly start taking people down so they can gain power and take over the government. That is a coup and that is what is going on right now. We as Americans, have to stop this coup.
If you have any questions, send me a text to 818.252.5682
Last night the Democrats, all by themselves, voted to impeach the President of the United States. The Articles of Impeachment is now being held through extortion by Nancy Pelosi. This is unconstitutional, not allowing the accused to a fair trial. Not allowing the documents to go to the United States Senate that has the final say on the fate of any impeachment - per the Constitution. So Nancy is holding the documents of Impeachment hostage. An illegal act by a member of Congress, the Speaker of the House. She should be held in Contempt of the Constitution and the Senate. Stop playing games with the American people, we now see just how evil and corrupt the Democrats are, they should never be in a government position in Congress or the Senate. Our Constitution is being held hostage. Americans, no matter what you are politically, this has got to stop. This harms the nation and the laws of the United States. Call your members of Congress today. Demand that they stop their Speaker and defend the Constitution.
If you have any questions or comments send me a text at 818.252.5682 www.lodge-co.com
So Congress is about to vote on two articles of impeachment that have no legal standing. But they will vote, it goes over to the Senate where it will probably be dismissed, based on no legal grounds to impeach. But the nation is put through this impeachment that has worn them out. We have heard so much spin, sinning of nonsense, instead of showing constitutional legal grounds of a crime being committed. Political hate is not a good argument. Let's get this over with and move on. We need to get things done in the United States, put the hate to the side and do their job. Enough.
If you have a comment send me a text to 818.252.5682 www.lodge-co.com
This morning I have been listening to the Congress debate on how to debate in Congress on the impeachment. Then I listened to people who are fed up with the whole process. Those in support of Trump don't trust the Democrats and the Republicans. They are being attacked with comments from bloggers, internet programs, Fox, CNN, commentators, analysts, about this impeachment. I can hear in the voices that they are so frustrated that it has caused mental and health issues. It is time for this to end. The only option that Americans have is to vote out and clean the Congress. Enough of impeachment upon more impeachment. Is the President being set up by even his own party. These questions are going through the minds and hearts of the American people. One lady said she is only going to listen to the President, she is shutting off everything else, just so she can keep her mind clear of everything else. Perhaps it is time for Americans to step back, take a deep breath, and only focus on cleaning out the Congress so we can get back to business and not focused on a political coup called impeachment. Let's take back our nation and let us get back to our normal lives.
If you have a comment send it by text to 818.252.5682 www.lodge-co.com
All of us have a good story to tell, but we just have not learned how to do it. In business a good story builds your business. Your financial statements tell a story, and you have to know how to tell that story. In my line of work of business mediation, I need to hear good stories from two disputing parties. A story tells me what is going on. However, even myself, I have a struggle of telling a story. Every single day I listen to people that tell stories professionally and I learn from them. Ted Talks is a good source. They even have a book out that tells you how to tell your story. Sometimes, in business, we tend to rely on other people to tell our story. As a business owner you need to know how to tell your story. This is a process that will help you in so many ways. For 2020, let's commit to telling our story and study the process.
If you have any questions, or want to tell your story, send me a text to 818.252.5682 www.lodge-co.com
Once you go out of compliance with any business regulation it can be very costly to get back into compliance. On January 1st, 2020, there are a bunch of new regulations and laws going into effect on various issues. Sit down with your employment attorneys, tax people, and make sure you are up to date on the new changes. Keep in compliance.
If you have any questions or remarks, send me a text at 818.252.5682 www.lodge-co.com
The impeachment process is about to hit the floor of the United States Congress through a coup attempt by the Democrats. They have no facts, no crime committed, no argument for impeachment. They are trying to destroy the President and his office on any claim of abuse of power or not providing documents to the Congress. Their argument is worthless in nature, they have no proof of anything. It is time that we stop this coup, stop the Democrats and their coup. Enough is enough. Call you members of Congress and tell them NO Impeachment. Take our Congress back.
If you have any questions send them through text to 818.252.5682
Have you held your 2020 strategy meeting with employees? Big companies tend to do their strategy and financial planning six months before the end of the year. Some companies even do it at the beginning of summer, which just isn't feasible for a small company or startup. So it is time for you to print out your 2019 financial statements, sit down with your employees and get them to participate in the strategy process of planning for 2020. Get it done, it should not take you that long. Look at your revenues from products and services, you expenses to run the business. And know what you are expecting to be your net income for next year and how you will use your cash. Strategy is the only way to get your company to grow. Get your employees involved.
If you have any questions, send me a text to 818.252.5682 www.lodge-co.com
More than 43 million Americans provided unpaid care to an adult or child in 2019. Of those caring for a family member, almost half were caring for a parent or parent-in-law. It can be a privilege to get to spend this dedicated time with an older parent. However, it's also a huge responsibility and takes a lot of time, energy and money. So let's talk about some of the tax issues that may help you.
If you have a questions, send me a text at 818.252.5682 www.lodge-co.com
If you have been watching the impeachment hearings have seen a system that is neither fair or follow the rule of law. Members of Congress that will vote yes on impeachment will be saying bye bye in November. Americans have had enough of impeachment, the American people never asked for impeachment and the waste of our tax dollars for three plus years. However, we knew that the Democrats were going to try and overthrow the President through impeachment, it started on day one, they have had three votes on impeachment, and each time they voted yes. So we knew it was coming. Well, the Democrats have got to understand that we have had it, and it is time for them to go. No nation can have the rule attacked so corruptly and do nothing about it. So I say to Democrats in Congress - bye, bye. We can no longer trust you.
If you have any comments or questions, text me at 818.252.5682 www.lodge-co.com
LLC's are a popular form of business entity, however many LLC members have no idea what their operating agreement says. Who is in charge of what? Who has contributed what? How to add or remove members and how to dissolve a LLC when needed. This podcast will deal with these issues and some of the problems as to why LLCs fail. If you have any questions, send me a text to 818.252.5682 www.lodge-co.com
Our nation is divided. Prayer is needed to get our nation back on track. To guide our leaders to make the right choices to govern this nation. To stop fighting and work together. To do their jobs. It is easy to pray, use the ABC's of prayer. Ask, Believe and Claim the promises of God. Pray for your nation. If you have a prayer request send them to me via text at 818.252.5682 www.lodge-co.com
Nancy Pelosi is guilty of trying to conduct a coup. She has overstepped the rule of law and the Constitution to impeach, to overthrow a legal president based on nothing. A coup is defined as an illegal seizure of power from a government. "He was overthrown". Treason is a betrayal of trust. In a legal sense, the term refers to the commission of overt acts to overthrow one's own government. A betrayal of trust or confidence, a breach of faith, treachery. A violation of one's allegiance to one's government or President.
She has committed an abuse of power. A misuse of power by someone or group in a position of authority who can use the leverage they have to oppress persons in an interior position or to induce them to commit a wrongful act. She is pushing through impeachment, based on no illegal act or evidence, to make Congress overthrow a President. This is wrong and really falls under treason and a coup. Going against the American people who voted for this president and trying to throw him out of office based on nothing, except hearsay and buzz words that don't apply to the actual rule of law and Constitution. This puts America in a very dangerous situation in protecting the rule of law. They have abandoned their oath to defend and protect the constitution. They have abandoned the Sixth Amendment that guarantees the rights of Americans. That applies to you and me.
Hold Nancy Pelosi and the members of Congress accountable for their abuse of power, Coup, Treason. Hold them accountable.
The IRS on Thursday released its final version of the 2020 Form W-4, with some important changes that could impact both employers and workers. The New form is for use in 2020 - it is intended to make withholding more accurate in conjunction with the Tax Cuts and Jobs Act, which affected filers for the first time last tax season. The ultimate goal of proper withholding is to pay so much each month that you neither owe nor are owed, come April 15th.
If you have any questions, send me a text at 818.252.5682 www.lodge-co.com
Today Nancy Pelosi called for the writing of impeachment of the President without even hearing the testimony or any legal arguments put on by both sides. This act is treason. They are ignoring the rule of law. They are attacking the Constitution and the rule of law. Americans, stand up and take back this Congress. They work for us, we never authorized them to work on impeachment. They have spent over $100 million dollars of our tax money. We never authorized them to spend that kind of money on impeachment. America, get on your phones, social media, members on congress emails, and tell Congress to stand down on Impeachment. Congress is out of control and it is time we Americans take it back. Call, tweet, email, do whatever is available to you to tell Congress to Stand Down.
If you have any questions or comments, send a text to 818.252.5682 www.lodge-co.com
Most of you are out shopping for Christmas gifts, they call it - shop until you drop. However, don't allow yourself to be bullied into buying gifts. You have to protect your financial future. Don't go into debt by being bullied to purchase gifts. People who expect you to buy gifts are not your friends. And if the are your family, you need to put distance between yourself and that family member. You have to take responsibility of your financial issues and future.
If you have any questions on this issue, or need help, send me a text to 818.252.5682 www.lodge-co.com
If you watched the impeachment hearing today in the Judicial Committee, Americans should be concerned about what is being taught in law school on the Constitution. There was so much political bias and hate shown by three of the legal professors. Political bias and hate has no part in constitutional issues. Americans should be very concerned in what law professors views on the constitution and how it protects the American people in our legal system. Today's hearing was worthless. Americans should be concerned with this very unjust impeachment process being endorsed and pushed by the Democrats.
If you have any comments, send me a text to 818.252.5682 www.lodge-co.com
It is hard to believe that we are in the last month of 2019 With the year coming to an end it is a great time to make some easy - smart tax moves to help you lower your taxes and maybe increase your tax refund. Be pro-active - call your tax preparer.
If you have any questions, send a text to 818.252.5682 www.lodge-co.com
Today the Judiciary committee will start to listen to testimony and reading the Schiff version on impeachment. Again, do not listen to the media. Be independent and only ask the question - is their argument based on the constitution and the rule of law - or is it just political arguments. We have been had before on the media telling us what is going on. Even Fox news is bad at it.. The only political candidate the Democrats have is Impeachment. They know they have no way to win against Trump in the elections, so they are using impeachment to put black marks against the President. That is their only goal is to sling mud and damage the President. Listen to the arguments and cross examinations, the media will spin it towards their agenda, not the facts.
If you have any comments, send me a text to 818.252.5682 www.lodge-co.com
The Democrats are in trouble. They have no candidate that has a vision or a plan that works for America. A more tax, free stuff, high debt, healthcare to illegal aliens, Americans that live between New York and California, don't want higher taxes, they are concerned about their families, jobs, housing, communities. They don't want to pay for everyone else when they are trying to live. So the only candidate the Democrats have is - Impeachment. Americans want work to be done by Congress, they have no desire to impeach. Forget the polls, turn off Fox, CNN and all of the other new outlets, they are pushing their own agenda. Not American agenda. Listen very carefully to the impeachment hearings, the only question we should be asking as Americans - is it constitutional? Have they proven a crime? Has the President been protected by the constitution or is he being attacked by politics alone. It all boils down to the constitution and the legality of a crime. That is it, and we are the jury, we decide through our vote.
If you would like to send a question or comment, or tell me what topics in business and taxes you would like for me to talk about, send me a text to - 818.252.5682 www.lodge-co.com
OK, I have to admit this. I am getting really close to that age to look at when I can apply for Social Security. This PodCast is what I have found in what age I get my full benefits and maybe even a little bonus if I wait. If you have any questions, send me a text to 818.252.5682 www.lodge-co.com
Another week of hearings in the Judiciary Committee on Impeachment. Different committee but same topic. Remember to listen very well. Do the Democrats continue with their political agenda to impeach or will there be a real constitutional argument. If they are pushing a political argument, their word to use to impeach the President on, then they have no constitutional basis. Congress doesn't get to set the impeachment rules to impeach on, they have to follow the constitution and the rule of law. Don't believe them when they say they have that power, they don't. We need to move on, the country is waiting for a trade bill to be passed, a drug bill, infrastructure bill, and bills that will help the American people. For three years now the Democrats have only pushed impeachment, they have preached it every single day since the President took his oath of office. Congressman Nadler wanted to impeach Bush and now he wants to impeach Trump, he has a history and love for impeachment. Tell Congress to get back to work, they work for us the American people, they do not work for any party. We pay their salary, not special interest groups and not the Democratic or Republican parties. Get back to work. Elections are coming up and their names are going to be on the ballet and maybe their last time.
If you have any topics you would like me to discuss, send me a text to 818.252.5682 www.lodge-co.com
Today, November 30th, 2019 is Small Business Friday, supported by the Small Business Administration. Support your local small business this Christmas holiday. Small business is the life blood of every community. They produce jobs and help local community organizations. $17.8 billion was spent in small businesses on small business Saturday in 2018. Let's support our small businesses. If you have any business or tax topics you would like me to talk about, send me a text to 818.252.5682 www.lodge-co.com
Today is black friday, the day all the stores run their Christmas sales. Here is a spending rule to apply - only spend what you can afford. If you are using your credit cards your creating debt. Debt never made anyone a millionaire. Make a list of people you need to buy for, put a budget next to each name. If you add them all up and it is over your total spending budget or ability to buy, you need to make some changes.
For a stocking stuffer, go to www.amazon.com and buy my book, "Ethically Thinking - It's Not That Hard" by Michael Lodge. It is not expensive, and will help people about thinking ethically. Next week we will start talking about year end tax and business issues, if you have any topic you would like me to address, send me a text to 818.252.5682 www.lodge-co.com
We should be thankful that we made it to this Thanksgiving. We are still alive, blessed and thankful. How many of you are right now starting the cooking process for Thanksgiving dinner? Your cooking all the side dishes, deserts, deviled eggs, and all the good stuff. Here are ten Thanksgiving jokes you can use on Thanksgiving. Be thankful for this one day to smile, laugh, eat, and spending time with the ones you love. Now, if you know of someone that needs a place to go, they are alone or new to your community, set a place at the table for them. You still have time to invite that person to your home. You're going to have all that left over Turkey anyway, share some on Thanksgiving with someone new at your table. Let me know what your making, send me a text to 818.252.5682 www.lodge-co.com
We all have gone through life experiences that teaches us how to be Thanksgiving. To show gratitude. To learn from these experiences that teach us how very important it is to be thankful for everything. Learn from your experiences. Tell me what you are thankful for, send me a text at 818.252.5682 www.lodge-co.com
I don't think the history of Thanksgiving is taught the story of Thanksgiving. This is a federal holiday started by the Pilgrims as a harvest dinner, giving thanks for the bounty of the harvest. George Washing, by a request of Congress, was started as a proclamation. It wasn't until Abraham Lincoln that made it an official holiday for the United States. It is celebrated on the 4th Thursday of every November. Now, we as Americans, celebrate the holiday, with family and friends getting together to be thankful and be with people we love. It is also all about food, and that is an experience that Americans love. Tell me what you are thankful for, send me a text to 818.252.5682 www.lodge-co.com
It's the Sunday before Thanksgiving. I love this holiday. Thanksgiving is about really being thankful.
"Thankfulness is the beginning of gratitude. Gratitude is the completion of thankfulness. Thankfulness may consist merely of words. Gratitude is shown in acts." - Henri Frederic Amiel
Everyday we should be thankful. We should start each day with a prayer telling God how thankful we are for life. Forget about the things you have. Life is what it is bout.
Be thankful this week and show love to those in need. Set an extra plate at your table at Thanksgiving for someone who has no place to go.
Tell me what you are thankful for, send me a text to 818.252.5682 www.lodge-co.com
This week is Thanksgiving week. Starting today, let's be Americans, think about how thankful we are for this nation, our family, our time to sit down and show are gratitude for what we have been blessed with. Turn off your TV news, don't even listen to the news this week. This week is dedicated to you, as an American, to be thankful for so much and to share this time with people that have no place to go. Tell me your stories about a thanksgiving that meant so much to you, or why thanksgiving is meaningful to you. Tell me your thanksgiving story, send it to mlodge@lodge-co.com or text it to me at 818.252.5682 I want to hear about you and your thanksgiving experience. I will read them on my podcast. Let's celebrate Thanksgiving big time. On my podcast for the week I will not be talking about business or politics, it is all about Thanksgiving. Text 818.252.5682 www.lodge-co.com
We all want to close the deal when we negotiate. In this episode we are going to talke about seven negotiation strategies that can help you overcome roadblocks to closing a business deal or in a mediation process. There has to be rules so all parties know what the process is. If you have a comment or questions, send me a text to 818.252.5682 www.lodge-co.com
Adam Shiff in his closing statement at the end of today's hearing sounded like an emotional child. Emotions, raising of voice, pouting because he didn't like what people said. However, with this emotional outburst had no legal standing for impeachment. This nation deserves better, not a Schiff who is so emotional but has not legal standing. No one testified to what laws were broken. No one testified on the constitutionality of impeachment. But what we heard was hearsay.and no evidence that supports impeachment. Americans have to ask their members of Congress, why are you wasting tax dollars, how many millions of dollars have been spent on impeachment. All to play politics. This surly was not a legal issue because no legal concerns were brought forward with documentation. This whole impeachment has been known since day one of the election of the President. We have been seeing this for three straight years. In these three years not one law was broken by the President. Not one legal argument. Just assumptions. If you have any comments send me a text to 818.252.5682 www.lodge-co.com
We heard Ambassador Sondland testify yesterday and got the Democrats all fired up. After the first 30 minutes of testimony the Democrats thought they had big time testimony that made Trump a criminal. They zoomed out to the press in a break and went to the press, damning the President. However, under cross examination everything that was said was destroyed by Sondland admitting there was NO Pre-Condition to anything, no nothing, no bribery, no illegal acts. The Democrats were so damaged that they all had mud on their faces based on their failure to wait for the entire testimony. The Democrats argument was dead. Again our constitution remains under attack. If you have any comments or questions send me a text to 818.252.5682 www.lodge-co.com
The economy is very strong at the moment, unemployment is way down, and consumer and business have confidence in the economy. However, that could change depending who is in power in Washington and any pull back by Americans afraid of what could happen if the wrong people get into power. But right now, Americans and Businesses are confident. But to be good stewards of our money we have to plan for any emergency or recession. That is the smart thing to do. If you have any questions or comments, send me a text to 818.252.5682 www.lodge-co.com
Alexander Vidman was a employee who worked for the United States in a role that probably he should not have been in that position. He really thought he was someone. He forgot that Trump is the President, the President sets foreign policy, not Mr. Vidman. He thought he was the only expert for Ukraine. However, he bypassed his supervisor, he leaked the information, he talked to people about the phone call. He heard something different from everyone else on the call. He blew it up. He even talked to a person that he can't even say the name, Schiff protects him from saying the name, because we all now know it is the Whisleblower. This leads us to believe that Vidman is the source of this whole mess used by members of the coup. Even the whisleblowers attorney endorses a coup. Day three of the impeachment hearings just opened up more doubt about the roles of the Schiff and Mr. Vidman with the whisleblower. Dirty rotten politics and unconstitutional. If you have any comments or questions, send me a text to 818.252.5682 www.lodge-co.com
I have been getting a lot of calls from clients about Social Security calling them warning them that they may have warrents out on them and someone is using their SS number. All fraud, SS never calls. Also, we are going to talk about the difference between whole life and term life policies, cost differences and other issues. Clients have been sold whole life policies that they have to drop by the end of their first year because they can't afford whole life policies. If you have any questions, send me a text to 818.252.5682 www.lodge-co.com
Take your Democrat and Republican hats off, put your hate to the side. Your constitution is under attack through hearsay, lies and a resistance movement to destroy America. To divide America at all costs. Our legal rights are being replaced by political accusations, hearsay, rummer - but no rules of law. Put yourself in the seat of the accused, you have no way to prove your innocents, your prosecutor and judge is endorsing your guilt and giving you no way to prove your innocents. We can't even confront our accuser, we can't read any documents of evidence, we can't even present our own witnesses. We are screwed by a corrupt politician and our rights have been thrown out. It could happen, it is happening right before our eyes. We have to hold these politicians accountable for attacking the constitution instead living the words of their oath to you and me to defend and support the constitution. If you have any comments send me a text to 818.252.5682 www.lodge-co.com
Today's podcast is about identifying about 15 different tips to improve your daily life, how your using your money. Money in and money out and how you make this process better for you and your family. If you need help, text me at 818.252.5682 www.lodge-co.com
I have been advising my listeners on getting ready for your tax return for 2019. I asked you to look at your W-2 wages, call your tax practitioners and see where you stand and if you will owe any taxes. I asked you to look at your self employment businesses and know what your income and expenses are to get to your net income and any self employment taxes that you may be hit with. Also, I asked you to look at the available tax credits that you may be able to take to reduce any tax liabilities. Let's be pro-active and know your taxes. If you have any comments or questions, send them through text to 818.252.5682 www.lodge-co.com
Business owners are getting hit by more and more regulations from SF, LA, NY city government to tell them how to run their businesses. How to pay their employees. How to control their hours at work. And the list goes on and on. What you see is businesses moving out of these cities and states and going to places where it is more business friendly. If your not wanted in SF, NY and LA, then why stay there when there is another city that loves small business in another state. If you have any comments send them to me by texting 818.252.5682. www.lodge-co.com
Goodness, today what we heard was an HR hearing of a Ambassador and her being relieved of her duties, by her boss, the President. She even agreed that the President has the right to relieve her of her duties. She didn't lose her job, she still has her job. The whole testimony has nothing to do with the impeachment and addressing the charges of the Democrats. If you have any comments, send me a text at 818.252.5682 www,lodge-co.com
All Americans should go to google and print out the constitution. You need to go and read the 4th, 5th, 6th, 7th and 8th amendments that protect our legal rights. Then as the Democrats ask their questions and present their hearsay witnesses, refer to the Constitution and ask if the Democrats are in compliance with the Constitution. Remember, if the Democrats Speaker says that the President is guilty without seeing both sides of evidence attacks the Constitution and all of our legal rights. If they are presenting hearsay witnesses and not allowing the President to confront the witness, they have attacked the constitution of the United States. Put your politics to the side. Put how you feel about the President to the side. And only focus on the constitution, are the Democrats following the constitution. If you have any questions, send me a text at 818.252.5682 www.lodge-co.com
Till Death Do Us Part and the IRS Tax rules for 2019 may affect you. Nobody said it was going to be easy. Lots of emotions in a relationship and family that is broken. There are new tax rules that you need to know about and how it is going to affect you. If you have any comments or questions, send me a text to 818.252.5682 www.lodge-co.com
Taxes are not exactly the most straightforward concept, and a lot of people misunderstand how they are taxed according to tax brackets. So let's have a conversation about how tax brackets work. If you have a comment or questions, send me a text at 818.252.5682 www.lodge-co.com
Today was the first open hearing of Adam Schiff on the Impeachment show of President Trump. So let's recap what we learned. Absolutely Nothing. Have a comment send a text to 818.619.9788 www.lodge-co.com
Join me tonight at 7 PM on Spreaker.com - WBT - Wealth, Business & Taxes spreaker.com/show/the-world-of-business-and-taxes
I have taken the day off and will be taking notes. Text me with comments at 818.252.5682 www.lodge-co.com
I love podcasting, but revenues are very low unless you are a podcast with millions of listeners. Podcast are great for people to get a consistant message out on what they feel strongly on and have a passion for. There are thousands of Podcasts from around the world on almost every subject matter. Start a podcast and have fun at it, listen to a podcast and be entertained. If you have any comments send me a text to 818.252.5682 www.lodge-co.com
The impeachment hearings start this week. Now, as you sit there you will see that these hearings are going to be just like the Kavanau hearings,it will not be pretty. I want you to listen very carefully, and in the back of your mind remember that there is a IG report coming out in the next two weeks that will put everything up in the air, perhaps criminal referrals, and a DOJ response that ties everything to the Impeachment hearings. So this week will be an attempt by the Democrats to make Trump look as evil as possible. Pay attention but don't take it personally, this is not going to be a good thing for America. If you have any comments send me a text to 818.252.5682 www.lodge-co.com
Everyone put some time aside and call a Veteran today and say thank you. Thank youy for your Duty, your honor, and service to this country. This is their day. Honor them. Thank them. Pray for them. If you have any comments or questions, send a text to 818.252.5682 www.lodge-co.com
Every year there are so many people that have no place to go for Thanksgiving. New to the city, country, have no family, and the list goes on. Keep your ears open and find out who has no place to go. They are all around you. Reach out and invite. It will be the best day ever. If you have any comments, send me a text to 818.252.5682. www.lodge-co.com BE THANKFUL
Senator Warren has developed a tax and spend plan that will distroy the financial systems of our great nation. Her so called solution to virtually every problem is raising taxes on Americans and businesses. More taxes on you and me. her campaign advertises more than $26 trillion in new taxes over the decade, growing federal revenue collections by 63 percent. Not one dime of her plan goes to pay down the debt, instead it is being spent on free stuff that you and I will have to pay for through our taxes? Make sense? NOT! if you want a free copy of her tax and spend, send me a text to 818.252.5682 www.lodge-co.com
The Federal Trade Commission FTC released a new brochure, Disclosures 101 for Social Media Influencers. There are rules I bet you didn't even know that there were rules about what you are promoting or advertising. #ad doesn't cut it. Stay in compliance influncers. If you have any questions, send a text to 818.252.5682 www.lodge-co.com
In 1681 Abraham Lincoln became President. His goal as President was to end slavery in America. However, the South decided they wanted to keep slavery, mostly democrats, decided they would leave the United States. They wanted to keep their slaves. They created the Confederacy. Families fought against each other, brothers killed their own brothers. It is a part of our histroy where we were divided and today we are again divided political based on hate. Hate for a President and a nation. I ask you - are we not again at the beginning of Civil War? Give me your feed back by texting 818.252.5682
Business mediation should be a part of every business, big or small, in dealing with disputes internally or outside the business. The mediator, with business experience, has the ability to bring the two sides together very quickly, hear both sides of their stories, and come to an agreement that is fair to both sides. Companies should take control of their conflicts and find a way to resolve these costly issues quickly through mediation. If you have a comment or questions, send me a text to 818.252.5682
California is in trouble. It has the worse dangerous Govenor ever in the history of the state. Newsom says that the reason there is so many fires is because of capitalism. Which means he doesn't want any jobs coming to California because capitalism is evil. So with this thought process the Govenor is chasing out the tax base of people and businesses. Newsom wants to take over the electrical grids of California by taking over PG&E. How stupid is that? The State can't even repair their roads, infrastructure, and everything else that supports and protects the people of California. Politicians are making it harder for businesses to stay in California, so they pick up and move - look at Nissan, Toyota, Nessle, and other companies that have moved out to friendly states. I left California in July 2019, I could no longer aford to live in the state I was born in. Capitalism does not cause fires. Stupid politicans do. If you have any comments text me at 818.252.5682 www.lodge-co.com
Forbes reported that New Yorkers are leaving the city in droves. 300 people per day are leaving and going to states that have better tax rates and lower cost of living. The trend is not exclusive to the New York metropolitan area. California is lossing many people to other states where taxes are lower, same story as New York, just different state. If your moving out of Orange County in California to Phoenix, a 26 ft. truck is estimated to cost $1,465. The same truck going in the opposite direction is estimated to cost $101. There is such a high demand on moving trucks leaving California and New York that it has driven the moving costs up to get out of an expensive state and city. Businesses are heading out to better communities also. So welcome to Florida Mr. President, bye New York. If you have any comments or questions, send a text to 818.252.5682 www.lodge-co.com
Only 10% of us listen to others. We sit there with other things going on in our brains. Turn everything off, and respect the words being said, show that you actually value what they are being said. Don't be part of the 10% If you have any questions or comments, send me a text to 818.252.5682 www.lodge-co.com
I read a good article about what some money managers have said what they were told to save money. If you have any questions or comments, send me a text to 818.252.5682 www.lodge-co.com
If you are a person or a family that doesn't know your total income and expenses, you have a problem. you don't have to reach the end of the month wondering where your money went. Make a personal financial budget to know what your financial strength or weakness is and then work on it. If you need help, or have questions, contact me by send a text to 818.252.5682 www.lodge-co.com
Everyone challenges faith, especially new found faith. Kanya West has been touched by God and is developing his faith. Now at first I didn't beleive it, but hen I saw him and heard his words and it was a man of change and confidence because he found something that works - God. We should never judge an individual when he says he has changed and is trying to become better every day. Don't be a crab where you try to tear people down because you see something different in a person. Let's watch and listen, because God is using a new vessal, unlike what we have seen before. If you have any comments or questions, text me at 818.252.5682 www.lodge-co.com
For those of you in business, independent contractor or otherwise, you need to clean up your financial records and reporting. This podcast is about the form Schedule C and what you need to report. If you have any questions send me a text to 818.252.5682 or leave them in the comments. www.lodge-co.com
There are many ways you can start closing down 2019, making some decisions, and saving money in 2019 and planning for 2020 tax filing. If you have any questions or comments, send me a text to 818.252.5682 www.lodge-co.com
A political vote is coming on Thursday, per Speaker Pelosi, on Impeachment. Not a real impeachment vote, just a politcal ploy. It is time that we put a stop to political nonsense and start doing for the American people. We have so much to get done and yet Congress does nothing. They are so stuck on political hate that they have put the american people to do side. Call, text, email, fac your members of Congress to vote no on impeachment and start doing something for the American people. Send me your comments or questions by texting me at 818.252.5682 www.lodge-co.com
45 million Americans have a side hussle and some of you think it is not taxable. If you are earning money from a side hussle or gig, maybe as a consultant, doing bookkeeping on the side, selling stuff, whatever it may be, you are earning money that is taxable. If you have any questions or comments, send me a text to 818.252.5682 www.lodge-co.com
The average American uses over 1/3rd of his or her budget to pay down debt (2019 study from Northwestern Mutual). 15% or higher of people believe they will be paying off debt for the rest of their life. Experts say a significant amount of debt is explained by a money disorder - anxiety, depression, or trauma. Think about your disorder if you are in debt. On average each household with a credit card has $8,284 in credit card debt. ou, the consumer, consumer debt is at $13.51 trillion, that includes mortgages, auto loans, credit card and student loan debt. You have option, think about the next time you pull out your credit card - do you have a spending disorder? If you have comments or need help, text me at - 818.252.5982 www.lodge-co.com Produced by Michael Lodge
They are out there, scammers pretending to be from the Social Security Administration telling people they are suspending your SSN. The SSA will never call you. They will never suspend your SSN. The phone number is from Texas and when you try and call it back it is not in service. If you don't know phone numbers calling you, don't answer. Listen to the voice mails and you will find out they are scammers. If you have any questions or comments, text me at 818.252.5682 www.lodge-co.com
This week went zooming by. So many things I had to work on that made the time go zooming by. So this is a quick wrap up on issues that needed to be discussed. Taxation, marriage, and other issues. If you have a comment or question, send me a text to 818.252.5682 www.lodge-co.com
Americans are exhausted by dishonest politics that we get bombed with every single day. Here are three quotes I want to you think about and act on.
Beware how you trifle with your marvelous inheritance, this great land of ordered liberty, for if we stumble and fall, freedom and civilization everywhere will go down in ruin. - Henry Cabot Lodge
It is never right to compromise with dishonesty - Henry Cabot Lodge, Jr.
We the people are the rightful masters of both Congress and the courts, not to overthrow the Constitution but to overthrow the men who prevent the Constitution. - Abraham Lincoln.
If your exhausted about dishonest politics then stand up and get some energy and take back the Congress before they distroy the constitution. Hold your politicians accountable. If you have a comment send me a text to 818.252.5682 www.lodge-co.com
At some point in time you are going to have a failure or a crises in business. You can either pitty yourself or you can take the knowledge you got from a crises and create a change. With every crises there is a learning process that brings oppotunities, possibilities. Man up or women up and grasp the oppotunities from failure and do something great. Believe me, I have been through it. If you have any comments send a text to 818.252.5682 www.lodge-co.com
At the begin of every political election cycle, we see a lot of bloggers out there with a left and right blog with a political agenda. It is their personal agenda based on talking points or lies from either side. Every political blogger has a political agenda. Turn them off and use common sense in listening to the politicians, is it good or bad for American. You and I, and all of our neighbors, it is good for America. Sit down nd use the common sense test. If you have any comments send me a text at 818.252.5682 www.lodge-co.com
Snow White said it best, "Whistle While You Work". So many of us are so unhappy with what we do for work. We no longer whistle, instead we are so unhappy we moan and groan. Ask the question, Why am I unhappy and then ask What should I do to change. You have options. Learn to whistle again. If you have any questions or comments, text me at 818.252.5682 www.lodge-co.com
At some point in our lives, people come to a place that they are wanting to change their career, they want to do something new, they are burnt out, and the list goes on. There are steps that you should follow to asking the right questions and developing your plan of action to accomplish this change. If you have any questions or need help, send me a text to 818.252.5682 www.lodge-co.com
I get so many requests from individuals that want me to mediate, thinking that I will act as their attorney. That is not how mediation works. No way, no how, can a mediator act as an attorney in mediation, he/she can't give you legal advice. Mediation is a form of alternative dispute resolution resolving disputes between two or more parties with concrete effects. Typically, a third party, the mediator, assists the parties to negotiate a settlement. Mediation can be used to resolve disputes of any magnitude. Mediation has a 85% success rate. Use mediation to resolve disputes, it is far less expensive then going to court. If you have any questions on mediation, send me a text to 818.252.5682. www.lodge-co.com
Faith is the corner stone of our lives. No matter how you believe, what God you serve, how you conduct your business, it is all based on faith. "So keep your faith in the God above, and faith in the righteous truth, it shall bring you back to the absent love, and the joys of a vanished youth." Build your faith daily in some way. Keep your faith strong. If you have a question or comment send me a text to 818.619.9788. www.lodge-co.com
It takes a journal and a pen to put to papper your strategy. If you put it down on paper it gets done because you are focused on accomplishing what you set out to do. A journal doesn't have pop ups, youtube, emails that are annoying you as you try to get things done. A journal is private to get organized for your financial and other successes. Journal it, write it down, plan. If you have any questions send me a text to 818.252.5682 www.lodge-co.com
Americans have stopped using common sense. Instead they follow other people, they don't think the process through, they listen to bloggers, and they learn the script of what other people are saying. Instead of thinking things through, they follow nonsense. If you have any questions or comments, send me a text to 818.252.5682 www.lodge-co.com
I love the story I read on FaceBook today about two companies, In-N-Out and Chick Filet. Both companies are not ashamed to let people know how they think spiritually. They are not afraid to tell you and me how they feel their business should be run through a spiritual believe of doing good things. If you have any questions, send me a text at 818.252.5682 and I will answer. Visit my website at www.lodge-co.com
Families at some point in time have family disputes because communication breaks down, and the dispute becomes bigger because no one wants to talk to each other. It is time to bring in a mediator to get the human side to come back to the table and communicate. If you are in this situation and need help, send me a text at 818.252.5682. 30 minute free consultation. WWW.LODGE-CO.COM
It is the final quarter of 2019, sit down and review, tweak your 4th quarter business plan, and start planning for 2020. If you need help, send me a text to 818 252.5682 WWW.LODGE-CO.COM
Yesterday at the impeach Trump hearing of Adam Schiff, he took a document and added his iwn words to it, in fact he lied. Schiff has shown time after time that he lies, is unethical, and can't be trusted. It is time that Schiff be stripped of his chairmanship and brought up on ethics charges. In fact I call on Congress to take action. Comments or questions, text me at 818.252.5682 www.lodge-co.com
In Monday evening I flew from Palm Beach, FL to South Carolina. I got an Uber driver to drive me and we had a 45 minute talk about the end of life with his partner of 20 years and not planning for the end. Plan for the end, no matter how old you are, protect the one's that you love through planning. Questions or comments, text me at 818.252.5682. www.lodge-co.com
Today Pelosi and the Democrats announced formal impeachment hearings against Americans and the President. As an American I have had enough. This has got to stop and the only way to take back out nation is to stop dirty rotten politics. If you have a comment text it to 818.252.5682 www.lodge-co.com
October is coming and it is the best month to start planning for 2020. Every person and business needs to sit down, write out a plan and budget for 2020. You have three months, October - November and December, to sit down with a new fresh journal and write out your 2020 plan. This is a key to personal and business growth. if you need help, or have a question or comment, send me a text to 818.252.5682 or send an email to info@lodge-co.com www.lodge-co.com
Hollywood is great at telling a story. I have become addicted to HBO's show call, "Succession". This is a story about a family that are in business with their father, with a little mental instability, who jerks around his children. However, the father owns the company and his sons and daughters are all fighting to be in control after their father is gone. Now, skip to the part where the father has a brain aneurysm, collapses and goes into a coma. The trust and succession has not been agreed to, nothing was signed. Who is in control? Every business needs to think about this story. If you need help or have questions, send me an email to info@lodge-co.com or text me at 818.252.5682
The word "Default" is a very ugly word. Why, because if you co-sign on a loan you become responsible for that debt. It is DUMB in capital letters. Debt is dumb to get into through a co-signer on a loan. I know that you want to help out, but think first about helping yourself by staying out of debt. No matter how much you love your kids, things happen and kids do default on their loans, that you co-signed on. Stop it. If you have any questions, help, comments, send me a text to 818.252.5682 or email info@lodge-co.com
Every single day the Congress and other government levels are producing political nonsense, pushing the constitution to the side and creating their own set of laws, ignoring the constitution. California just did this and thank goodness the federal court stopped the law they passed to say you have to publish your tax returns to run for President, a clear violation of the Constitution. The demand for impeachment in Congress right now is in violation of the constitution, but they are doing it based on hate for the President. They raised their right hand and said - I defend and will protect the Constitution. And they they push it to the side and creat havic in this nation. Nothing is getting done because of political hate. We have to hold these politicians at all levels accountable for doing political nonsense. If you have any questions or comments, send me a text at 818.252.5682 or email me at info@lodge-co.com www.lodge-co.com
Business has requirements. And these requirements also must be put into practice everyday - Ethics, listening, vision, financial responsibility, planning, follow through and the list goes on. We need to look at these every single day as we run and grow our businesses. If you have a question or comment, send a text to 818.252.5682. www.lodge-co.com
A life coaching moment today. You don't have to have an excuse. you have the right to say, you're done, you're over it. you have been there, experienced it and now you don't want to do it anymore. You use to drink and now you don't, you're done with it. You have a toxic friend, you experienced it, you're done. you stopped watching the news, you had enough. You are done! That is all you have to say - I'm done. If you have any questions or comments, text me at 818.252.5682 www.lodge.com
So many of us listen to our friends for advice. Listen to people who have the experience. Would you listen to a nurse about starting a business? Think about it. If you have a question or comment, send me a text to 818.252.5682 www.lodge-co.com
So many of you are not paying attention to your finances, debt, spending, creating better income flows. Every family and individual need to put together a budget, a financial plan for the year. Best time to start working on it is in October, you have three months to the start of a new year to creat a financial plan for 2020. Hire a financial coach, get some help, use some common sense. If you need a financial coach, send me a text to 818.252.5682 www.lodge-co.com
Yesterday the state of California in their legistlature voted on a new law that will mandate rent control over the entire state. Now the people of California voted against Prop 10 that was a rent control proposition. Californians said - NO. But, politicians again are overriding the citizens of California. This is not democracy, it is socialism. California has become the Cuba of the United States. The peoples voice no longer matter, it is only what the government wants. Also, Gov. Gavin Newsom signed a law that said, disruptive students can no be sent home. That puts the safety of teachers in danger. California has gone to the Cuba style of government. I left California, moved my business and my life to Florida, to escape California corruption. I am a refugee from California. If you have any comments or questions, send a text to 818.252.5682 www.lodge-co.com
Everyday in eveery community there are politicians doing nothing but people trying to make a difference. Every person, businesses, churches have the ability to do so much through giving of time to help. Government will never help communities, it is up to everyone living or working in these communities to get things done. If you have questions or comments, send a text to 818.252.5682 www.lodge-co.com
Business succession planning is important for every business. Who is going to take over incase something happens? There needs to be a plan in place to protect the business and the family or partners who are now responsible for the businss. Who will take over? Will you sell it? What is in the estate planning, and the list goes on. Bring in a business mediator to help the family develope a plan. If you need help, send a text to 818.252.5682 www.lodge-co.com
There is conflict and disputes within companies all the time. Leadership can cause conflict. Employees do not know the goals of the leader, no communication from the leader to his team, and not following through. Employees begin to wonder if the leader is really a leader. Managers, supervisors, senior executives, all have a role to work with their employees or teams. There is often points of directions that come under dispute on projects. A third party mediator needs to be brought into the conflict so it is confidential and the team and leader get back on track. Just by being heard, confidentially, the team can get back on the right road. Mediation works and should be utilized by human resources when conflict and disputes arise. If you have a question, or need a mediator, send me a text to 818.252.5682 or send me an email at www.lodge-co.com www.lodge-co.com
Finding the right talent that adds value. Value is the key word that we need to be looking for in individuals that we hire. There are several aspects to keep good talent also. We need to focus on what we need to do as leaders in keeping good talent. If you have any questions or comments send me a text to 818.252.5682 www.lodge-co.com
Politics is no longer a professional that cares about the American people. It is all about power. 700,000 homeless American kids and the politicians only focus on those at the boarder who are not even Americans. We hame mentally ill and drug addicts setting up tent and cardboard box cities inside Los Angeles and other cities. However, no politician has a plan for mental health and the homeless. So politicians don't run to represent us, they run to gain power. Power is their only objective. We need to hold politicians accountable for our needs in our communities. If you have any comments or questions, send it to me via text at 818.252.5682 www.lodge-co.com
Your resume is your professional life story that you will tell employers. The better and shorter the story the greater the success. If your resume is too long employers will put it to the side because they have to go through hundreds of resume's for one job. Keep it to one page and put good stuff on it. You don't need to tell your whole life story. Good questions at the interview will draw out other information about you. If you need help, send me a text at 818.252.5682 www.lodge-co.com
We never think divorce can happen in our own lives. But it happens and when it does happen if you work with a mediator in setting the separation rules the process is less stressful. Working with a mediator who can work with both parties can help each person to work and agree to a clean and understood process before the actual divorce takes place. Don't try to go through divorce alone. Get support from professionals and from your friends that will be there for you. Set the rules in advance so when the attorneys do get involved there are agreements in place and the attorneys can follow through on the legalities. If you have any questions, send me a text to 818.252.5682 www.lodge-co.com
A friend asked me last night, what will my legacy be? Now my life is not over yet, things can change, but it is time for all of us to re-examine our lives. Ask yourself what you want to be remembered as.
Trump is doing the right actions towards China. China has been a sneaky player for a very long time and something had to be done. What my trouble with Trump is his attack on the Federal Reserve Chairman, wrong place to attack. The economy is doing well at the moment, let's keep the interest rates where they are. If our economy slides we will need those remaining interest rates to bring down to boost the economy. Leave them where they are at. Trillions of foreign investment dollars are flowing into our country because they see us as safe. Trump, focus on China, not on the Federal Reserve. Thise talking and hoping for a recession are idiots. We have a strong economy and Americans want that. But the left never wants what Americans want. We have an economy that is strongest in all the world. We will do fine under the current economic policies. Send me your questions or comments by texting 818.252.5682 WWW.LODGE-CO.COM
From time to time it is vital to scrub your financials numbers. Many times data is just plugged into computers because it is so much. However very little analysis is done on where that data is going. Hire someone to scrub for you and then sit down and understand your financials. If you need help, text me at 818 252.5682. WWW.LODGE-CO.COM
The city of Los Angeles has a health hazard about to explode and city politician's refuse to act. The city has a population explosion of homeless. Drug addicts, mentally ill, and others, have set up camps on every street they can live in. The liberal politicians refuse to do anything to clean up the city, the garbage on the streets and destroy the rats. Liberal politicians have destroyed the state of California. Now the state has banned the use if poison to kill off the rats because they are afraid of hurting the mountain lion population. Disease spreads fast and it could take over the state if they refuse to do anything, lives are at risk.
When you have accomplished a lot during the day, you can sleep soundly. Do all your work with gusto. Send me a question by text to 818 252.5682. WWW.LODGE-CO.COM
If you are a good business owner or manager, you have put your yearly business plan into action. However, every week you need to have a business plan for the week. Keep a daily journal of your business, your plan, your conversation, your information gathering in doing your job. Journal it daily. If you need help in planning, send me a text to 818.252.5682 www.lodge-co.com
Free stuff is a very expensive political belief. With every free item a politician wants to give away will cost every American trillions of dollars to pay for all this non-free stuff. A nation wanting to give away free stuff will fail very quickly because no one has the momentum to work, build companies, study hard for a paying profession. You have politicians who have really never worked out in the public sector and worked hard, they have been politicians where Americans have been paying for their salary and their free healthcare. They don't understand the worth of work. They certainly don't do it at their jobs in politics, they just push an agenda of free stuff and hate. That is their whole message to Americans. Think about this, we have over 700,000 kids homeless in America - but no politicians talk about our own children. We have mentally health challenged people living on the streets in our cities - no politician has a plan to help these people. They don't even want to talk about mental health issues in our nation, it does not fit into their political agenda. Political tuesday stinks, I hate talking about politics, but until we vote I will continue to do political tuesday. We need to have a communication on the words politicians use and how expensive their ideas are to Americans and the failure of their message. If you have any questions or comments, send me a text at 818.252.5682 www.lodge-co.com
We are so guilty about self-interrupting your workday. Your working on a project and someone sends you a text, you stop and read the text. Or your working on a project and you stop and go to another project without finishing the first project. We are self-interrupting ourself all day long. We need to look at adjusting on interruptions and use techniques to help us stay on track. If you have any questions or comments, send me a text at 818.252.5682 www.lodge-co.com
A very good quote, "If it isn't heck yes, then it is eally heck no", time to pull the plug. Sometimes we get into a situation where we have a project or a company that just isn't making it. You have thrown everything at it and it just will not get to a success level. It is draining cash from your other operations. Time to shut it down, put your resources into the companies or businesses that are making money. Tough decision to make if you built it up by yourself. If you have a question or comment, or need advice, send me a text to 818.252.5682 www.lodge-co.com
Members of Congress have announced they will begin the procedings on Impeachment of the President. They have not grounds, but they will do anything that is dirty to regain their power. They don't want to do their jobs - roads, immigration, healthcare, and the list goes on. Instead they want to hold a nation hostage through impeachment. This is the story of politics, if you go against the American people - you will be voted out. Do your job for the American people or your out. That is the truth about politics. Congress is not not doing their job, instead they want to play the power play of politics. It is all about power. If you have comments, text me at 818.252.5682 www.lodge-co.com
I love podcasting. I love the creative process, getting the content that is of value to others, and to sit down and talk to people around the world as if they are in my living room. Will you make money from it? Nope, not unless you are selling your own services or products. I sell my book on my podcast - Ethically Thinking, It's Not That Hard" on www.amazon.com. See how I worked that in? Podcasting is not a money making project, but it is about producing content of value. Value is the key work. If you have any questions on podcasting, send me a text to 818.252.5682 www.lodge-co.com
People who bully do it because they can. No one tells them not to. Be that person who tells them not to and your life will change dramatically. People who bully because they are lacking social and emotional intelligence. Steer them in the right direction in terms of how to treat you and they will listen. They will even respect you. If you have any questions on bullying in the office, send me a text to 818.252.5682. www.lodge-co.com
All companies have to make good business decisions. Every decision-maker has a different approach. I had a client that was way off base, closing the office doors, shutting their eyes, and telling a story in their heads to make business decisions with. This is called funny business, not a real business. Real decision making takes on an approach that looks at everything in their company, looking at the over all parts of the business. Finding what you do right and what is being done wrong. If you have any questions on a business decision, send me a text at 818.252.5682 and I will answer your questions. www.lodge-co.com
Ageism is prejudice or discrimination on the grounds of a person's age. Ageism in recruitment is an increasing problem. This is a very common practice of discrimination in job hiring by companies and businesses. The AARP reports that 1 in 5 workers in the United States is over the age of 55 Nearly 65 percent of workers say that they have experienced agebased discrimination at work and 58 percent of those surveyed believe that ageism became apparent starting at age 50. I have seen this concern from people at the age of 30 and 40. Ageism is a serious issue that should be treated the same as sex, race, and disability based discrimination. Raising public awareness about the issues ageism creates can help. As the population of older adults continues to increase, finding ways to minimize ageism will become increasingly important. I want to hear your story, send me an email to mlodge@lodge-co.com or text me at 818.252.5682 www.lodge-co.com
In business, sometimes we get off track, we need help. A business coach can assist and guide you in running a business by helping you clarify the vision of your business and how t fits in with your personal goals. Business coaching is a process used to take a business from where it is now to where the business owner want it to be. If you are in need of a business coach, send me a text - COACH 818.252.5682 WWW.LODGE-CO.COM
We continue on with our series on bullying. Bullying happens in almost every company. To stop bullying it starts with the leadership with the organization. Workplace mediation is needed, the bully and the target of the bully, need to sit down and come to an agreement on how to resolve the issue. The target needs to learn how to standup to the bully. If you have a workplace conflict in your organization, send me a text that says HELP to 818.252.5682 All conversation are confidential. www.lodge-co.com
Politicians only want to play politics with death of Americans. Instead of finding a way to help the menal health issues of this nation they lash out at other politicians or guns. Instead of looking at the individual that did the damage and their level of mental health hate. Great quote, "Hatred contaminates the container in which it is carried in." Hate is a mental health problem that developes into the death of others. Politicians need to start thinking about Americans mental health issues instead of building their power to political agenda's. If you have any questions send them through text to: 818.252.5682 www.lodge-co.com
Bullies are all around us. Some of us deal with buillies in various ways. This week we are going to talk about bullying in the office. Today our conversation is going to be about what are the various behaviors of a bully. If any of the behaviors we talk about desribes you - then you are a bully. Join me this week as we have this conversation of what to do when you are bullied at work. If you have any questions or would like to have a workplace mediation done, text me at 818.252.5682 www.lodge-co.com
Every single day when I go out, eat at a resturant, people all around me are on their cell phones texting, Instagramming, Facebooking, an all forms of social media. Two people can be sitting across from each other and both are on their cell phones. The skills of personal communication with each other has almost vanashed. We text but see no human emotion. In business we use texting and emails to form documentation of our conversation with our clients or customers. But in real life with other humans in our personal lives we have lost the ability to communicate. Put down the cell phone, stop texting, talk and listen to someone. Make a new friend. Communication is a key to our mental health. If you have a question or would like to sign up for a life coaching session, text us at 818.252.5682 www.lodge-co.com
Let us all remember El Paso in our prayers. Prayer trumps hate, shooting people is hate, hate is a mental health issue. All last week I did a 5 day series on mental health in the workplace, life and community. Every individual should know that it is ok to talk about how they are feeling, their current mental health process. There are always signs, and sometimes we choose to ignore them. The right approach is to listen and help. Even God, in the bible, has warned us about mental health. In fact God gave us over 20 verses on mental health. God knew that this world would have mental health issues. Even Buddha talks about mental health. Other writers of spiritual material have addressed mental health. We, as humans in this world, need to let everyone know it is ok to talk about mental health issue. Let's not take a shooting and make it political, but instead we need to talk about our mental health crisis in the United States. We have homeless running our streets that have mental health issues and drug problems, but we do nothing about it. The topic of menal health have to become a part of our conversation. If you would like to talk about mental health text my office at 818.252.5682 or send me an email to mlodge@lodge-co.com www.lodge-co.com
When you are starting or running a business, you will go through depression. It is a lonely experience because everything relies on you. But you can work through it if you remain focused and surround yourself with some close adviser, for personal and business issues. The best investment in your business and yourself is to hire a business coach. Find someone that has been through everything before, not someone that advertises as a coach in business but have never built or run a business. Find someone who has built something, run something, and have real business experience. Experience counts. If you need a business coach / adviser, or have questions on starting or running a business, send me a text to: 818.252.5682 or email me at mlodge@lodge-co.com www.lodge-co.com
The shared economy is a new way of life. Those of you doing AirBnB, Lift, Uber are part of this new economy. You are now running a business, which means you have to act like a business. Record your income and your expenses in operating your business. Report it on a Schedule C for business or profession. If you have any questions send me a business text to 818.252.5682 www.lodge-co.com
All of us go through that point in our business life where we want to run away, hide, escape. The communication process is vital to get out the issue and find a resolution to the issues that make you want to escape. Refocusing needs to be done, because your actions affect not just you but lots of people. Business coaches and advisors are there for you to let loose of all that is bothering you and to refocus on what you need to do. This is life, and in business at times you need to sit down and refocus. If you need help send me a text to 818.252.5682 or send me an email to mlodge@lodge-co.com www.lodge-co.com
I have been down in my Palm Beach home and office paiting and getting everything ready for the final move. I have learned that I am very old because my body is telling me the story of stiffness rom painting and stretching, lifting, and moving stuff. However, I learned that if I painted in a consitent stroke of the brush of paint, the wall looked good. Everything that we do we have to be consistent, that is how we get to success. Bend corners you will not have the success you want. You will have to go back and redo whatever you did. Be consistent in everything we do - success. If you have any questions send me a text to 818.252.5682 and I will answer your text. www.lodge-co.com
It has become aggressive on Social Media by those trying to sell you a seminar on how to become rich. However, the only one making money is the one selling you the seminar and all the books and stuff from him. You walk away with new buzzwords but no new knowledge on what you thought would help you. Buzzwords never make you rich. They key to success is hard work and constant learning about your field of interest. If you have comments or questions, text me at 818.252.5682 or email me at mlodge@lodge-co.com
This is the wrap up to the mental health series parts 1 through 4. This podcast is on building a mental health strategy for our companies. If you have any questions on workplace strategy send me a text to 818.525.5682 www.lodge-co.com
No matter how old that you are, change is good. It is a full head on learning experience and makes you a well rounded person. Adapt and change and you will become a better person. The better you become the better you can help and work with other people - no matter how old you are. If you have a question on business, send me a text at 818.252.5682 www.lodge-co.com
When anger disrupts the office a mental health incident occurs. Business needs to have a better way to deal with mental health issues with their employees and management. If you have a question on workplace conflict mediation, send me a text to 818.252.5682 www.lodge-co.com
We are starting to see an uptick on pre-foreclosures on homes, up 9% from the prior month. Credit card debt has gone up 5% from the prior year. Americans need to get their debt and personal finances under control, they need to put their budgets together so they don't show up on the pre-foreclosure list. Be a good steward of your personal finances. If you need help or have questions, send me a text at 818.252.5682 www.lodge-co.com
Anger and hostility can get out of control very quickly. Mental health and mediation of conflict work hand in hand. Human emotions can turn from hate to violance in a moment. We as business owners need to do better in the process of dealing with mental health issues with our workforce. If you have questions on mediation on conflict, send me a text to 818.252.5682 www.lodge-co.com
Conflict happens everyday in businesses. Taking on conflict between people within a company should not be handled internally, it should be done by an outside mediator so people can speak in confidence and not tainted by internation company issues. If you have a question on workplace conflict mediation, send me a text to: 818.252.5682 www.lodge-co.com
I said I would not talk about politics but now I have to. Too much bad politics is being produced through the media and politicians that I have to keep Political Tuesday going until the end of this election cycle. We need to think this through with common sense and what is good for Americans, not what a political party wants in changing America. We have to be very careful on who we elect and what laws they try to pass that affect business and our personal lives. If you have any questions or comments, send me a text to; 818.252.5682 www.lodge-co.com
You really can't judge a person who is having a bad mental health day. Each individual has a story they need to tell, we have to listen. Don't judge, listen instead. Create an enviornment within your companies to discuss mental health and dealing with it in the business enviornment. Mental health can affect our business - we have to be proactive. If you have any questions or comments, text them to me at 818.252.5682 www.lodge-co.com
Everyday we are touched by mental health issues, some simple and some very complicated. But we as employers, owners of companies, employees, need to understand it more and how to deal with issues in the workplace. As a mediator of workplace conflict, I see various levels of mental health issues that create conflict. Over the next four days I will be telling your stories on how mental health issues have touched my life and how we should talk about it. Open your doors and let people talk. If you have a question or comment, send me a text to 818.252.5682
Last Saturday I was having coffee and experienced racial words that should have not been spoken. We need to do better. WWW.LODGE-CO.COM
I saw a blo on Linkedin by someone that said Americans are not benefiting from the boom in the economh. However, they failed to mention that consumer debt went up by 5%. So wages went up and so did personal debt. Americans have got to get better at managing their personal finance. Debt is evil and it can be managed, but it has to begin with you, as an American. If you need help, text me at 818.252.5682 The message center is open 7 days a week, 24 hours a day, we will see your message and will respond. www.lodge-co.com
I thought I was done doing political Tuesdays, but felt I had to do a podcast on the stupidity of the politicians running for President. There is no common sense being used, instead it is promises and a whole lot of lies being spread. You and I have to do better in electing the right people for office, put the political parties to the side, and find people that will represent Americans - not a party. If you have questions, send me a text to 818.252.5682
If you are not working on your own personal development you are going nowhere, your not growing and you won't be able to get your team and employees to grow. Either they are going to outgrow you or everthing will just stay the same. Focus on your personal development to lead. You have so many sources to turn to, but it should be a constant process in your daily life. Get to it. If you have a business question text us at 818.252.5682 or send an email to mlodge@lodge-co.com www.lodge-co.com
When you talk to people who have walked through life with sexual abuse, physical abuse, all kinds of abuses, it touches the heart. It means something when you talk to people who have gone through such tough experiences and are trying to survive and maybe starting out new. Get involved in non-profit organizations in your communities, give from the heart through time, donations, talking. Get involved. If you have a question, send me a text to 818.252.5682
So many of us get caught up in the rush of life. In your heart you know you want to make a change, but you don't do it. If you need change in your life - CHANGE IT! www.lodge-co.com Text a question to 818.252.5682
My most favoriate day of the year is the 4th of July. I love being independent. Know why we celebrate this day, it is the beginning of our independence. Have we lost it? No, we still have the independence that we fought for, we got, and we will keep it. www.lodge-co.com Text questions to: 818.252.5682
Today's podcast is about several things. My issues with Instagram, tax documentation and your data security with your tax practitioner. Let's chat. www.lodge-co.com Text your questions to 818.252.5682
New tax laws have changed the way we look at divorce and taxes. If you are going through a separation and divorce, sit down with a tax advisor that knows divorce tax law. Many things have changed so you need to be aware of the various options that you can take advantage of. Have a questions? Send it to: mlodge@lodge-co.com or text it to: 818.252.5682
All of us have to be financially responsible by surrounding ourselves with people with the professional experience needed to protect us. Being responsible for our financial issues is very important. Focus on your financial stewardship, that is your duty to you and your family, even your business. This podcast is to tell you - do better. mlodge@lodge-co.com or text me at 818.252.5682 (a texting service for business)
I posted a educational blog today on Instagram, they shut down my account because they said it didn't go along with their guidelines. My post was simple, "In business or in negotiating, never lie about numbers and facts. It will catch up with you". Now I challened their reason for not letting me post and shutting down the IG account. No resonse. It still remains shut down. Perhaps it is time for everyone to rethink how they are using these social media networks when they will not communicate as to why. Their reason was that postings that deal with drugs, guns, violence was not acceptable. The problem is that my posting had nothing to do with their rules. Perhaps Instagram and Facebook need to have mediation as to what can and can't be posted and the right way to communicate it. Questions - send me an email at: mlodge@lodge-co.com
Every married couple that has decided to separate, trying to decide to divorce or trying to work things out, need to sit down with a Mediator and work out a Separation Agreement. This lets people move forward with rules in place, that both have agreed upon, to slow down conflict and disputes. Children that are involved want to know that they are going to be taken care of and if the Mother and Father have agreements in place they see consistency. Call my office at 888.681.1518 or send an email to: mlodge@lodge-co.com
All of us want good work done for us, we want to experience the value of what people can do for us. Those of us who own businesses have to focus on the value that we provide our clients and customers. Bad value leaves a bad taste in people's mouth and they probably will not be back. In order to grow our business we have to focus on the value we provide to everyone. mlodge@lodge-co.com www.lodge-co.com
I was born in California, started by business in California in 1984. It has been my home. Now, I am leaving to go to another state. July will be the last time my firm will operate in the State of California. I am sad to say good bye but it has to happen. California has become out of control. mlodge@lodge-co.com
The second quarter of 2019 is about done. How well did you do? Have you scrubbed your financial results and asked questions? SCRUB AND ASK! Need help? Send me an email at - mlodge@lodge-co.com
We need to be more focused on words that we use with people. Our words are like food, nourishment or toxic and poisonous. You and I make word choices, so it is up to us to choose our words wisely. The old saying, you can get more done with sugar then vinegar. If you need mediation help, send me an email at mlodge@lodge-co.com or call toll free 888.681.1518
So many times I have business clients cone in for mediation that are partners or investors. Conflict arose because of really bad communication. Partners went off and did their own thing and stopped communicating. Investors are not being updated on how their money is being spent, they are not seeing results. Good communication would have helped greatly, but instead they went in the wrong direction in the business relationship. Need help, send me an email mlodge@lodge-co.com
Divorce happens every day in this nation. If you have decided to divorce you can make it easier on everyone by going to a divorce mediator and work the process through with civility. A mediator is able to bring both parties together and talk about what is needed by both individuals. Divorce is a big step to take, and there may be several options available to ease the pain through mediation. For divorce mediation call 888.681.1518
If your going to cone to the negotiation table with a bully and aggressive attitude, you will walk away frustrated Go to the table with an open mind, options to present, fairness, and you will walk out with what you need to close the deal. You negotiate for what you need, not what you want.
It is a rainy Friday here in South Carolina, rain is hitting my tin roof and is very relaxing. Today is a good day to put your goals and objectives down on paper in your journal. Accomplishments get done when you write them down and check them off.
Congress is no longer working for Americans. Instead they do nothing to protect our borders or create a legal and fair immigration system. They yell and scream about tarrifs but do nothing to solve the problem.
I have been working with all kinds of companies and industries since 1984. My success is driven by being adaptable and wanting to learn. ADAPTABILITY get you to more places in life.
Dirty politics is being played in Congres, nothing is getting done and the American people are paying taxes but have no representation. Change is coming!
School is great, but the jobs you take or the projects you contract with, learn everything you can. This learning process will get to places I. The world you have only dreamed about. Learn everything.
Mediation has a 85% success rate in resolving conflict before having to go to litigation. It is confidential, no one can see your court records because there are none. Keep it confidential, resolve conflict with a mediator.
Back in South Carolina in my studios. I had to make a decision to stay in California or leave. I decided to leave. California has become such a anti business state and a very expensive place to operate. So I had to make that decision to leave.
The complicated message of Easter is to forgive. God forgives us. Every single day. Forgiveness is hard for us humans because we are a complicated people, it is a hard process for us to forgive. But we can with gods message on Easter to forgive one more time.
People start a business, form a partnership of some form, but forget to clarify the roles of the partners. That creates conflict at some point. Know what your role is. What is your responsibility to the partnership.
Every so often I do a PodCast called political Tuesday. Designed to talk about the politics that affects business and taxes. Over the past few weeks there has been so much talk about abortion by politicians, so I had to speak out based on my life as an adopted child. I could have been aborted, but i was given a chance to live. Every time a politician talks about the right to abort I am thankful i was given the right to live. Adopted and not aborted.
Many of you thought your tax refund was a great reward plan at the end of the year. Wrong way of thinking. This tax season has taught many Americans they have to do better at financial and tax planning. Welcome to tough love.
Almost every single day from January to today, clients say the same thing. "I don't know where my money went" which translates to "I am out of control". Get a financial plan in place. Call me at 888.681.1518. Get it together.
A lot of you were surprised with your 2018 tax return. Times have changed. You have to do better tax and personal finance planning.
Americans are getting fed up with dirty politics across this nation. Dems demanding to get to Trumps tax returns through the IRS. This is dangerous business when tax returns are used for political hits on anyone. It is dirty politics filled with lies.
You have your money to the government and now your getting back what you over paid. What you get back, use it wisely.
I have given this talk on social media postings over and over. Your posting evidence that can be used against you in any audit. The IRS has a computer algorithm that pulls these posting from social media sites. Be smart, don't post bling.
The Mueller report is out and we found out that for two years Democrats have lied to us about Russian collusion. The media lied and pushed an agenda to take down a President. Hold these politicians accountable for trying to destroy a nation.
If you are an I dependent contractor and receive a 1099-MISC you are a business and should act and operate like a business let's get it together.
This is so important - get your financial reporting and controls under control. No financial controls leads to failure. Spend some money and get someone to guide you through the process.
Dont let people push you into an investment. Never invest in a hurry. Do your due diligence.
Democrats have decided to attack Americans freedom of speech but encourage only one sided political beliefs. That is called socialism. A danger to our nation.
Business owners have got to do better at keeping tract, documenting and recording your records and financial data.
All of us at some point get a burn out feeling. Most of us know why we are burned out but dont do what needs to get done, instead we complain about our burn out and do nothing. Work it through, address the issues.
There are a lot of financial and real estate schemes out there on the internet. Look at everything being sold as a scheme, do your due diligence. Be a good steward with your money and time.
Debt is growing and there is a rise in defaults. You need to get your debt and personal finances cleaned up. Get your personal budgets created and attack tour debt. Call my office and we can help you put your budget together. 888.681.1518
Democrats again play the political game using Trumps tax returns. There is no law to require any President to publish their tax return. No tax return with give them any information. We will see what he made or loss, and how much taxes he paid or a refund he received. It gives you no detail just net numbers what he is invested in. Democrats are using the returns as a show and a grab for power through stories that are assumptions and lies. By the way, how are your highways and roads? Right, Congress only wants to see Trump's tax returns. Worthless!
If you are filing your individual tax return and you filed a schedule C for business or profession, you are running a business. Documentation of income and expenses are vital. Schedule C is a highly audited form. Document!
Since the election of the Philippine Presisent the rule of law has disappeared. A Dictator is in power and the country is a risk.
I consult to a lot of businesses on budgeting and finance. We set rules and goals, objectives to meet. The same business model is the same model for your personal finances. Sit down and start putting your budget together and meeting your objectives. Need help? Call us at 888.681.1518
Business owners have so much at their finger tips, literally on their cell phones, to help them market and brand their name. It takes dedication bit it works to your advantage. It's work but it is fun at the same time. Get busy and work on your branding.
I hate debt. Debt creates a lot of stress and puts up a wall to success. If you have debt on bling to try and impress, you just created debt stupid. You have options to be a good financial steward of your finances. CHANGE!
You knew that 2018 was a year for tax changes, new rates that affected everyone I even told you throughout 2018 that you needed to change your W-4, sit down with your tax practitioner and plan out your 2018 tax issues. Did you do it? Nope! Instead you just heard more money and you have become a tax refund addict. Now is the time to go cold Turkey and become responsible for your financial and tax life GET IT TOGETHER!
In your financial planning exercise you have to be well rounded. You have to focus on your financial picture, your spiritual life, family, intellectual, physical, social, and career. They all balance each other out, fail in one and all the others may start to fail. You have to have a well rounded balanced life to keep your goals working.
This nation has had a lot of different types of Presidents. No matter how far to the left or right they were, we have always been protected by the constitution to keep them in check. It is still working today.
Setting personal and business goals is a freeway to success. Set your goals inwritteng and be very specific. Need help? Call my office at 888.681 1518
I am not surprised that Amazon ran from New York City, being hated by democratic socialist politicians is a very good reason. Anti business politicians put Americans at risk, who will they attack next. They are more happy to see jobs leave so government takes more control. Americans have got to become more involved in their communities and vote in better people that are pro American and business.
College students today are graduating either more student loan debt than ever before. It's estimated that students graduate with an average of $37,172 in student loan debt. $1.4 trillion dollars are owed by Americans on student loan debt. Let's talk about options.
There are a lot if phone scams going on right now, it happens every year during tax time, but now the scammers ha e gotten an extension for all 12 months. When your identity is stolen it take over 600 hours to clean up. Protect your identity.
This is lesson one of personal finance week. This lesson is on budgeting, most important first step of getting control of your finances and start paying down debt. Let's get it done.
Americans owe $420.22 billion dollars in credit card debt. Credit card debt is up 5% between 2017 and 2018. Then we have student debt, Mortgage debt, auto debt and more. Let's look at what we need to be doing to be good stewards of our finances.
Taking control of your business or personal finance is your decision to follow a process. It is your decision.
All if us in business make risky decisions every single day. Some of our decisions are not so good. We made them and we take responsibility for them and we learn to make better decisions and move forward.
I will be the first to admit I am really bad at selling. However, I am really good at my profession as a business consultant. Knowing my weakness I hire really good sales and marketing people to cover my own weakness. Know your strengths and cover your weaknesses.
Out of his whole speech before Congress, the most i.portant statement the President made - America will never be a socialist nation.
Nothing is normal in Washington DC. They dont think Ethically. They dont put the American people first, they put their politics first. Thus, nothing gets done. We are back to the beginning of this nation where we have taxation without representation. The President put an offer in the table, the Democrats lied to the President and the American people by saying they would negotiate with the President, but they haven't. They lied and broke a promise. An offer is on the table and they refuse to negotiate, instead they play dirty rotten politics. The Democrats are playing the dirtiest firm of politics where we can no longer believe them. They have failed America.
I ate so much chips and sip because nothing was happening at the super bowl. Sorry, one touch down doesnt cut it. And who put on the creapy Burger King commercial? All they had were boring artsy fartsy commercials that were not even entertaining. However, it was good to catch up with friends.
Come on America. It's Super Bowl Sunday, pure fun and food, no politics. If your going to bring up politics we are going to have to leave the room. Let's really have some fun.
This nation was formed by a group of people trying to escape the over taxation, without representation, in Europe. They came here to build something. Today we have Socialist Democrats that want government controlling every aspect of your life. That is NOT American. You and I work hard everyday trying to build something not to be taken away by government.
We want to grow our podcast network for business so we have launched a Indiegogo campaint. To participate go to: https://www.indiegogo.com/projects/business-podcasting-to-teach-business/x/16905971#/
Stop sitting around dreaming about what you want to do but never do. My friend Ron was about ready to die and didnt want to leave life, he still had things he wanted to accomplish. He had done a lot in his life, selling real estate in his 70's, inventing things, up to the day he died. But he wasn't done yet. He didnt have dreams, he had plans, and he did them. What about you? WWW.WBTPOD.COM
Motivational quotes have never helped me in building a business. It took hard work and great people that added value.
We are all sociable people and we love to be with people as friends. However, professionals representing clients have to maintain an arms length rule to remain independent from their clients. Independence is vital. WWW.WBTPOD.COM
Last year I did Political Tuesdays on my PodCast. I made a promise that I would focus on business content for 2019, giving value to my listeners. However, clients have asked that I continue with Political Tuesdays, so here we go. Political Tuesdays are back on per listener request. WWW.WBTPOD.COM
Washington DC is out if control, dirty politics is being played, the media hypes it up. Turn it off and focus on your business. Political nonsense is worthless. WWW.WBTPOD.COM
I am tired of watching all these videos on IG and FB from people promoting their get rich schemes. Do your due diligence, make good decisions, dont focus on the fast cash. Anything fast can go out of control. Focus on building something you can be proud of. Wealth co es from hard work and good decisions.
Pelosi is acting more like a fool and a child every single day she stays un Washington. When a person will not sit down like an adult and negotiate with the President she is a fool. America is not a foolish country, we see and hear what is going down. Political hate is foolish, Nancy is now the poster child for political hate for this nation. Enough. WWW.WBTPOD.COM
In life we get in our little boxes and never step out. It's time to step out of your comfort zone and do something amazing. WWW.WBTPOD.COM WWW.LODGE-CO.COM
It is so easy to spin and argue with people. The problem is that we never listen before we speak It is important to learn to listen, ask questions, then speak..
I just got into my office in Burbank, CA. I will be here until May 1 or lo ger, depending on client needs. To book a business tax preparation call 888 681 1518 and speak to Brenndy Gonzalez. If you need business coaching or need to set up a new business call the office.
2018 we were able to accomplish a lot of items on our list. I know I did. I look forward to 2019 - a year of great accomplishments. www.lodge-co.com
Happy New Year. Become a business focused on what value you bring to your clients. Be productive in all areas of business.
"If you wait for perfect conditions, you will never get anything done" - Ecclesiastes 11;4. The most important word you can learn is "NO". It is the best practice in time management. If it is worth while for you, "Do It Now".
If you have not started to plan for 2019 you need to get to it. It is time for you to start laying out plan to improve your business. You should be doing this ever single year. It is a vital aspect of business. We always have to try and enhance our business and serve our clients better. www.lodge-co.com
Get my new book "Ethically Thinking, It's Not That Hard". You can purchase it on www.amazon.com Get it today.
The Chinese have a saying, "Muddy Waters Catch More Fish". The muddy waters don't let you see the real truth in the investment that you may be entering into. I tell everyone all the time, do your due diligence on everything that you are investing into or purchasing. www.lodge-co.com
Purchase my new book on www.amazon.com called, "Ethically Speaking, It's Not That Hard".
I wrote a book called, "Ethically Thinking, It's Not That Hard". Over the past few years I have been hit with ethical issues in dealing with clients, employees, and business partners. I wrote the book so I could get a lot of ethics issues off my chest and try and teach others what to think about. The book is being sold on www.amazon.com and look for Ethical Thinking, Michael Lodge.
"If you wait for perfect conditions, you will never get anything done" - Ecclesiastes 11:4. What is holding you back because you are fearful. Are you now making excuses for your fear? Fear is at the root of all of your indecision. What's your fear and what is your excuse? Lift it up to God your fears.
Michael Lodge has a new book that is out on www.amazon.com called, "Ethically Thinking, It's Not That Hard".
We all have clients that make us feel uneasy by they way they conduct their business. These individuals are a risk to your business and staff. When you have this type of client remove the risk and fire them. If you keep them you will spend more wasted time and money to support unethical behavior of that client. Fire them. www.wbtpod.com
I have a new book out on www.amazon.com called, "Ethically Thinking, It's Not That Hard". Go to www.wbtpod.com and click on the book picture and it will take you to the Amazon page. Talk with you soon.
The new tax laws are changing your personal and business tax returns. I have podcasted this information over the last two days. You have to be pro-active before the end of 2018. Run the numbers on your tax return with your tax preparer, see if there is anything that you can do to resolve some information. Get it done. www.wbtpod.com
My new book comes out on www.amazoncom on Saturday. Search on Amazon for Ethicall Thinking, Michael Lodge and you will see the book for Kindle and Hardback. It is a good book, written based on personal and business experience in dealing with ethics. It is a good read. www.wbtpod.com
New tax rules have created a QBI rule, which stands for Qualified Business Income deduction. Some companies are considering changing their business entities because of QBI. This is a discussion you should have with your tax accountant.
Also, I have a new book out on Amazon.com called, "Ethically Thinking, It's Not That Difficult". You can also order it by going to www.wbtpod.com
Everyday we go through the process, and in this process you make decisions. We at time make decisions frivolously. Whether it's about career, marriage, finances, health, children, or the future, there are three principles for making wise decisions. "A man is a fool to trust himself! But those who use God's wisdom are safe" - Proverbs 28:26 www.wbtpod.com
Creating a strategic plan involves establishing a strategy your business will follow over the next year. It can be specific to one area of generalized for the business as a whole. And it tell your employees their role in accomplishing the plan for the next year. If you need help contact Michael Lodge at mlodge@lodge-co.com. To set up an appointment call Brenndy at 888.681.1518 Let's get planning.
Giving Tuesday is a very important time in this nation. It is the day that we give to organizations that help your communities. Money and time can be donated to these organizations helping the people in your communities. Get involved on Giving Tuesday. My charity is Home With a Heart that provides free drug and alcohol treatment free of charge to individuals in my community. Get involved in your communities.
You have to reduce the stress in your life by changing what you think about and absorb. Bring in negative thoughts and you become stressed. Watch negative news and your thoughts will turn negative. Let's change that, you have the choice in what you absorb in your daily lives and you can reduce your stress. www.wbtpod.com
We are getting close to the year end. Have you planned your focus for 2019? Get your act together. Call my office at 888.681.1518
If you are planning for Thanksgiving dinner, don't forget to ask someone that has no place to go. There are so many people that need some Thanksgiving love.
It is just a few more days before Thanksgiving. Be radical in your thanks. "Give thanks in all circumstances; for this is God's will for you in Christ Jesus" - 1 Thesalonian 5:18 Tell everyone you know how thankful you are for whatever they have done in your life, tell them you love them, be radical is saying thankyou from the heart. www.wbtpod.com
You need to take a look at your personal and business characteristics and honestly evaluate whether you have the personality traits and physical conditioning necessary to operate the specific business you are wanting to do. Just because someone call you an entrepreneur doesn't mean you are one. It takes work, planning and engagement.
If you need business coaching contact my office for an appointment by calling 888.681.1518 and speak to Brenndy to make an appointment. www.lodge-co.com
If you own a business you need to have a will in place at all times, to tell people what you want done with your business and who will run it or sell it off. And attached to that will you should have your business operations manuel, that tells everything about your business, your business bank accounts, passwords, online accounts for business and passwords, federal ID number, and everything else. That should be attached to your will. Have everything ready in case you should pass away. Protect those around you. www.lodge-co.com
No more political Tuesdasy, I am exhausted from politics and have started a 30 minute rule on atching the news. Join my club. Also I talk about Action Changes Things, puting into action items that will help business, planning for 2019 and ending the 2018. We are only a few days to 2019. Start planning for 2019. www.wbtpod.com www.lodge-co.com
Get a cup of coffee, a table, pen, and start planning your 2019 business plan. www.wbtpod.com
Thanking God in advance is a very big step of faith. The good book says that when we have the faith to thank God ahead of time for an answer to our prayers, great things happen - miracles happen. Be thankful in our prayers to God, especially at Thanksgiving time. www.wbtpod.com
It is important for you who are considering getting married, to do a financial check before you say, "I Do". You need to know where each of you stand financially before you get married, you can fix anything financially prior to marriage. Financial strees breaks up many marriages. Call our office at: 888.681.1518 and talk to Brenndy to set up an appointment via Skype or phone. You can also write me at: mlodge@lodge-co.com
We are very close to ending 2018 and move onto 2019. Have you started to close out your financial statements? Have you started to plan for 2019? Have you been able to collect all of your accounts receivable before the years end, do you know how much people owe you? If you have not started to prepare and finalize your 2018 financial statements, then you need to do it ASAP. The IRS is looking at new operating losses in a total different way, they are not going to look at losses in the same way. It is time for you to start the conversation about the final financial statements for 2018 and preparing for the tax return under the new tax laws. If you have a question send me an email at: mlodge@lodge-co.com www.lodge-co.com
California was able this election to have Gaving Newsom (D) and John Cox (R) that ran this time. However, John Cox when he won the preliminary election, he disappeared. no one knew where he went to. He was driving around in this bus talking to small groups of people, per his Instagram account. No one in California knew who he was. The biggest problem his heart was not Californian, he came from Chicago or someplace like that. So this election Newsom received 59.4% and Cox got 40.6%. The question out there with California Republicans is, was he put in just to help the Democrats win. The other issue is that Republicans in California are not really Republicans, they seem to be more like Democrats. No one stands up for Californians, instead it is all about the Democratic party and not the people. Out of all of the issues this one issue of the Governership makes me boiling mad because the Republicans didn't even try. California is a failed state because no one with guts stands up, Travis Allen was the only one that fought hard. California is the worse liberal state ever and it will fail even more. However, the election is now over and we move forward and our fight is the policies, and that is wear our attacks should be. www.lodge-co.com
California was able this election to have Gaving Newsom (D) and John Cox (R) that ran this time. However, John Cox when he won the preliminary election, he disappeared. no one knew where he went to. He was driving around in this bus talking to small groups of people, per his Instagram account. No one in California knew who he was. The biggest problem his heart was not Californian, he came from Chicago or someplace like that. So this election Newsom received 59.4% and Cox got 40.6%. The question out there with California Republicans is, was he put in just to help the Democrats win. The other issue is that Republicans in California are not really Republicans, they seem to be more like Democrats. No one stands up for Californians, instead it is all about the Democratic party and not the people. Out of all of the issues this one issue of the Governership makes me boiling mad because the Republicans didn't even try. California is a failed state because no one with guts stands up, Travis Allen was the only one that fought hard. California is the worse liberal state ever and it will fail even more. However, the election is now over and we move forward and our fight is the policies, and that is wear our attacks should be. www.lodge-co.com
Tomorrow is election day, have you made your choices? Make them from your heart, vote, and you are done. Forget about the politics and the hate. www.wbtpod.com
If you want to be effective, if you want your prayers to be effective, you need to learn to be a good listener. Our prayers with God is a conversation. And in dealing with people we are having conversations, but are we listening? This Church Sunday we are talking about listening. www.wbtpod.com
When you are faced with a business issues, take the issue, put it to the side, have a cup of coffee, revisit it calmly, and then make a decision. Bad decisions are hard to fix, and some issues resolve themselves. www.lodge-co.com
If you fall out of compliance just a little bit it can cost you a whole lot of money. So you need to be on it all the time. I also discuss the November 6th election and how it affects our economics in our households and businesses. www.wbtpod.com
As a business orner and leader, you might think you should know everything and have everything figured out already, but this probably is not true. In fact it is not true. We all have our own talents, leadership skills are something we have to learn along the way. If you're overwhelmed, in need of advice, or want to see better results in your business, you may need a business coach that has the experience in business - management, financial reviews and controls, administrative and HR experience, and have actually managed themselves.
If you feel you need a business coach contact our office at 888.681.1518 and speak to Brenndy and she will schedule a time with me. Or you can send me a email directly to: mlodge@lodge-co.com Visit our web page and see what we can do for you. www.lodge-co.com
I was shocked as I watched a clip from CNN where the discussion and claim went to a statement of hate. That Trump had radicalized more people then ISIS. How much hate can CNN promote by their hate for President Trump and the American people. They took two incidents where people were killed by a crazy killer that hated Jews and made it political. Instead of trying to bring a country together at a time of pain, they decided to go political. Not just CNN but other networks have done the same thing in promoting hate towards the President. On November 6, next week, we all have an important job to do- vote out hate. If you are on social media - block hate. If you are watching TV, block out hate. This election, use your common sense to vote for issues and people that help American and not point fingers and make it political. We have to change our nation, it is up to use to do better. Vote with common sense. Do not vote for a political party. No one should ever hold office that promotes hate and division. Take a careful look at your ballot, vote on the issues that affect your communities and vote for the people that will work for you - not working for a political party.
Put the politics to the side. Put the hate in the garbage. Put your heart in your vote and making the decision that helps your family, community and our nation. Hate has destroyed our civility and love for each other as Americans. You and I have the ability to stop it and get back to being real Americans. VOTE NOV 6 with your heart. www.wbtpod.com
Over the past weeks we have been bombarded with hate and we don't understand why God let's this happen. Why doesn't God just shut the earth down? Because he wants to demonstrate his grace to all of us. His patience is to allow you and me to accept his love. He is waiting for you. "The Lord isn't really being slow about his promise to return, as some people think. No, he is being patient for your sake. He does not want anyone to perish, so he is giving more time for everyone to repent" Peter 3:9 www.wbtpod.com Church Sunday
Times have changed. I was thinking about my childhood at Thanksgiving. As a child, instead of going trick or treating, we went and collected food for the poor to feed them at Thanksgiving. We didn't know about hate back then. We were involved in our communities and loved. Today, we have changed where political hate has destroyed communities. We have forgotten to love within our communities. We let the media pursh our lives to their agenda. We have forgotten to be independent in our thinking and more involved in our communities. We can do better.
It is time to shut down the media and their hate for America. It has gone too far where it is creating dangerous situations in our nation. Attacks on our constitution, our liberties and our democracy has got to stop. Let's limit our media time and refocus on our communities. There is so much to do. Let's be exchausted from doing good in our communities instead of political exhaustion. www.lodge-co.com
Business owners need to think about the tax reform legistlation passed last December that affect almost every business. With just a few months left in the year, we need to highlight important information for small businesses and self-employed individuals to help you understand and meet your tax obligations. Let's talk business taxes. www.lodge-co.com 888.681.1518
Every Tuesday we talk about politics. This political season will come to a close in a few days all around this nation. Your decission process should only be who is right and wrong to be in office. Those that are pushing such a corrupt political agenda need to be looked at with great caution. Are they doing what is right for America or what is wrong that hurts you and me? Your vote is very important, don't waste it, don't vote on party lines, vote on what is a common sense approach between right and wrong for our nation. VOTE www.wbtpod.com
You only have two months remaining in 2018 to sit down with your tax preparer and be proactive on your tax issues. Don't wait until 2019, it is too late.
Only when we let go of the fear of failure will it let go of its maddening grip on our lives. Once we let that happen, we can full accept the grace of God. "There is no one on earth who does what is right all the time and never makes a mistake" (Ecclesiastes 7:20 www.wbtpod.com
Have you seen the house that is still standing in Mexico Beach, Florida. All the houses around him were flattened to the ground because of Huricane Michael. The owners decided to spend another 20% more to make their house stonger when they built it. Same should apply when doing business. Give 20% more of yourself to your clients and you will be blessed ten fold because of your professionalism. www.lodge-co.com
It is said that if you place an item on FaceBook, a person will only spend 6 seconds and then they are off to another video or picture. Think about it, if you are at the Dentists and your looking at FaceBook in 6 seconds you have swiped to a new picture or video. So it is very hard to get a potential client engaged if you only have 6 seconds. So before we start spending advertising money on social media we have to look at engagement of the potential client. Do some research before you spend advertising dollars. Make sure you are engaged.
If you are a procrastinater, here are the words from two sources that describe you. Delay, Procrastinate, Lag, Loiter, Dawdle, Dally, Slaggard, lazy, sluggish person ayabout, do-nothing, idler, loafer, lounger, good-for-nothing, shirker, and underachiever. Now these words come from Websters Dictionary and the Bible. These are words that describe a procrastinater. And here is the sad thing, we choose to procrastinate. It is an ethical choice, to do what is right and get it done, or what is wrong and do it later. We make an ethical choice. www.wbtpod.com
Social media and Elizabeth Warren is out of control. Enough of all this nonsense, we need better leaders in our nation that stop the hate. I have spoken out many times against hate in politics. YouTube said I went against their policies and deleted one of my podcasts that was speaking to the issue of hate, not for it. I really don't understand the decission process of social media. Hate is going to do damage to this nation, someone is going to get hurt. Now, Elizabeth Warren wants to fight the President on her nonsense Indian heritage. Even the real American Indians are mad at her. We we have more nonsense streaming into our lives that is really worthless. All because of hate. So my rant to day is on hate and political nonsense.
Everyday it seems it gets harder and harder to get up and face the day. But all of us have to do it. The list of things to do gets longer and longer. So, we have to find a better way to do things. Prioritize your work, delegate your work to other people, and find the Italian time of "The Sweetness Of Doing nothing". Living in the south I have found things still get done, you just have to do it better and prioritize you life. Think about it. www.wbtpod.com / www.lodge-co.com
Proverbs 29:11 says - "Stupid people express their anger openly, but sensible people are patient and hold it back". Which are you? Anger confounds many people. We need to gain wisdom and hold our anger. Anger turns into hate very quickly. Think before you speak - live it. www.wbtpod.com
We spend way too much time on our cell phones and watching too much news. It has hurt us as humans. Even my dogs are staring at me as I am on the cell phone. They are telling me - spend time with us. So, let's have some courage and face our cell phone addiction. We can do it! www.wbtpod.com
I am very proud that I have reached 600 podcasts. Two years ago I didn't know anything about podcasts, I am a old guy but I thought I could do it. So I did it. Today I am listened to on IHeartRadio, Spotify, Itunes, and about 20 more outlets. This is a teaching podcasts where we talk about business, taxes and politics that affect business & Taxes. Thank you for all of you have listened to me around the world. Your ears are greatly appreciated. If you have a subject you would like me to talk about, email me at mlodge@lodge-co.com www.wbtpod.com
A lot of small businesses do not monitor their accounts receivable line on their balance sheet. If you don't have an accounting system and your monitoring it by hand - dumb. Get a good accounting package that can monitor everything that you bill out. You need to know what clients are sitting out the 0-90-120 days out. If you have money sitting out there you are acting like a bank to your clients. That is not what your business is about. Keep on track in monitoring what is owed and collect.
The biggest mistakes people make is the people that surround them. If they don't have the experience to advise you, get rid of them. There are always those people that want to ride on your coattails. Get rid of them. Leaches add no value to your career or financial future. Get rid of them. Choose people wisely. www.lodge-co.com / www.wbtpod.com
Wealth has nothing to do with the bling you wear or the car you drive. Wealth is what you have built to allow you to do what is needed to get done in the remainder of life - Easily. www.lodge-co.com
A study has come out by George Mason University ranking all the states fiscal condition. California ranked 42 of all states with the worse fiscal condition. That means the politicans in Sacramento has managed the finances of the state so bad that it has a poor ranking among states. California has a problem. Don't believe the political statement that California has the 5th largest economy in the world. It means nothing, the state politicians have damaged the financial condition of California. See the full report at: www.mercatus.org/statefiscalrankings/california
You only have a few months left to clean up some items before the tax season begins. This includes if you are on extension your tax return is due on October 15th. There is also some recordkeeping that you need to follow through on, such as filing a revised W-4 so the right taxes are being taken out and you do not end up owing. www.lodge-co.com
Everyone that owns a business need to understand how to read your financial statements. Income statement, balance sheet, and statement of cash flows. If you don't know how to read them then you can't tell your financial story to people. You have to know your financial story, a bad story can kill a good business. If you need business coaching, call our office at: 888.681.1518 Ext 0 Go to our web site at: www.lodge-co.com and click on "Business Coaching".
What you have seen in Washington D.C. is not America. America is a great nation. Drive across it and take some time and get to know people, listn, talk to them. You will find that what is happening in California, New York and Washington D.C. is not hat is going on in the rest of America. America is a country of love, neighbors, communities. Not the hate that you see in Washington D.C. Get to know America and sit on your front porch and talk. www.wbtpod.com
The wise man looks ahead, the fool does not face facts. Have a 10 year plan, plan for your decade. God will help you establish goals. www.wbtpod.com
Americans have had to sit through weeks of political tricks and dirty politics. They are exhausted, but they have one more job to do. Vote!
If you have been on social media or watched TV, we are seeing and hearing very mean words. People calling people very annimated hateful words. Think before you speak. www.lodge-co.com
I love the phrase - If you want to soar with the eagles, You can't run with the turkeys! Remember that. It is time that you and I grow our wisdom by hanging with wise people. www.wbtpod.com
Over the past two weeks regarding the Kavanaugh hearings we have seen an out of control government, a Senate that have far different views. Senators that call themselves friends but try to destroy each other. There is no longer any civility between Senators or members of Congress. Americans are worn out, and the only way they can make change is through their vote. November is going to be a war zone between parties. Forget the party vote, vote with your own independence to make our country better. www.wbtpod.com
October 15th is the due date for personal tax returns if you are on an extension. Get it done. Call our office at 888.681.1518. Also, if you have not prepared your financial statements for your business - get it done. Lots to do to have a clean financial statements. Again, call our office at 888.681.1518. www.lodge-co.com
An allegation is not full guilt, per the Democrates. Senator Feinstein has done so much damage that Americans are watching what is going on and see only corrupt, deceit and chaos. Americans, Stand up, pray and fight for our nation. www.wbtpod.com
People's thoughts can be like a deep well, but someone with understanding can find the wisdom there. Proberbs 20:5
The IRS wans retires to make sure ou are paying enough federal income tax. The Tax Reform Act that was passed in December of 2017 changed the income tax calculations and rates for most filers, and employees are not the only ones who need to double review withholding the right amount. Contact your tax accountant or call our office at: 888.681.1518 www.lodge-co.com
Hawaii Senator Hirono (D) told all white men today to shut up and sit down. This is the new Democratic political agenda - no free speech and if you are a white male you are guilty on all accusations against you. No innocent until proved guilty, no it is Guilty! I am demanding that Feinstein and Hirono resign your offices, you are not worthy to hold an office where you hate Americans and what to shut down their free speech. I challenge everyone, call your Senator and tell them to shut up, sit down, and act like real Senators that care about America. Enough is enough.
Senator Feinstein has taken an alleged claim of sexual misconduct and turned it into a political tool of the devil to destroy a good Judge and his family. Never have I seen so much evil from the Democratic power. Americans are sick and tired of being sick and tired of dirty rotten politics. We can change this in November. We can stop this hate and distruction. American people can stop evil quickly with one vote. #walkaway www.wbtpod.com
We are at the end of the third quarter. Now is the time for you to get your financial statements cleaned up - or prepared. Don't wait until the last minute of the year. Get it done so you can have clean financials to prepare a clean income tax return. Call us at 888.681.1518 www.lodge-co.com
What matters is not the size of your faith but the size of the God you put it in. A little faith in a big God gets big results! Have faith and pray. God is with you.
I am recording this today because I don't know if we will have power these next few days. Right now I have power so I will send the Sunday message.
Gavin Newsom and Gov. Brown have done so much damage to the State of California. Brown just signed a law to let Felons in Jail vote. Stupid as can be. Gavin Newsom wants to provide healthcare to illegal aliens. He endorces sancturary cities and state. The gas tax, which is now the highest in the nation, was pushed through by Brown and it is corrupt, they are already stealing from the fund to pay for other things, so the roads and highways go bankrupt. The problem is that Californians have lost their voice, they say nothing. But Californians have to #walkaway from the democratic socials corrupt policies that are hurting families and the state. Get involved before the state goes so corrupt that your life is in danger. #walkaway Remember to walk on Washington DC on October 27th woth the #walkaway organization. Let your voice be heard. Get involved and take back your state and country.
GET INVOLVED - This history making March is expected to begin at the DNC and conclude at our National Capital Building, immediately followed by powerful speakers and wonderful entertainment at the #walkaway Rally. Go to the following website and get more information - copy and paste to your browser:.
https://youtu.be/XS-xVoSrRSI
The standards deduction for 2018 has doubled which may mean you will not itemize. However, there are still deductions, above the line, that you can still take and can lower your tax liability. The tax laws have changed, work with a good tax practitioner. Call our office at 888.681.1518 www.lodge-co.com
Because of natural disaster can strike at any time, we remind individuals and businesses to take time now and create or update their emergency preparedness plan. Here are some suggestions on what you can do now.
If you want to really cut your tax liability or get a bigger refund, start getting ready for your meeting with your tax advisor in 2019. Be Proactive.
Who is defining your life? Have you lost control and are letting others define your life? www.wbtpod.com
We get content thrown at you. If you see red flags, be concerned and walk away. If there is red flags there is risk.
A lot of small businesses do not spend the time looking at the pricing structure. Vital part is to cover your operating costs, if your not you will be out of business very quickly. Know your costs and the value of your service to your clients. www.lodge-co.com
Have you noticed that so many politicians around this nation have become politically stupid. They try and push a political agenda that is just stupid. In the Senate jearing on the judge for the supreme court the Democrats scream we don't have all the documents to make a decission. However, weeks early every single Democrat said they would not vote for this Judge. Politically stupid. Socialist want to raise your taxes. Politically stupid. And the list of politically stupid politicians keep spinning nonsense. Have you not had enough? Or are you going to keep it going?
There are many things you need to remember when you get in the entrepreneur car and zoom off.
We are nearing the end of the third quarter and what have you done these past three quarters. What are you going to do the last quarter of 2018? Happy Labor Day.
It's not just a good idea to stop comparing; It's a commandment. Exodus 20:17 says, "You shall not covet....anything that belongs to your neighbor". www.wbtpod.com
California is out of control. Gavin Newsom and other liberal politicians are now attacking California business In N Out. This company is a great California company that provides hundreds of jobs to California students. The liberals are attacking our liberties and we do nothing about it. Go out today, but as many hamburgers as you can from In N Out, they are California.
The federal government employs 2.1 million civilian workers in hundreds of agencies at offices across the United States. The federal workforce imposes a substantial burden on American tapayers. In 2017 wages and benefits for executive branch civilin workers cost $276 billion dollars. Federal workers earn about 80% more, on average, than private-sector workers. So there has to be a freeze on wages in the federal government. The President is correct, as the CEO of the nation, to look at cutting costs in the federal government spending. www.lodge-co.com
Many of you run to your accountant complaining you need cash now or your business will fail. Need cash? Cut your expenses. You have over spent, cash is gone. Be proctive and start cutting your expenses. Don't be an idiot and keep spending what you don't have. Get real and be smart. www.lodge-co.com
The financial statement is the most important part of your business. It tell you how much money clients owe you, what your real bank balance is, what debt you have to work on, and more. You need to be looking at it every month, not just at the end of the year. Get your books together.
The 24 hour, 7 day a week news cycle and political spin is doing too much damage. People are just sitting there listening to the spin but not thinking.
Aretha Franklin passed away - but no will. Are you prepared for your death? Do you have a will or trust set up to protect your assets at the time of your death?
Be proactive as a business, get your income and balance sheets upto date. When you tax preparer does your business return he needs those documents. If the accountant has to do it the tax prep fee will be more. If you don't do it, get it done, get everything updated. If you need halep call us at 888.681.1518 Ext 0 www.lodge-co.com
There are many businesses that take very litle capital. It just take work to get out there and make it happen. www.lodge-co.com
Underreporting of income and not reporting foreign bank accounts can be seen as a crime by the IRS. If you have a foreign bank account, or you are a signer on a foreign bank account, you have to report it yearly to the IRS and the Treasury department under FBAR law. www.lodge-co.com
Teachers every school season spend about $500 to purchase school supplies for their classrooms. Remember your teacher when you are out buying school supplies for your kids. They need financial support of the parents for their classrooms.
Senator Warren has spent time on her tweeting to politically attack everyone. She attacks businesses, corporations, members of Trumps administration, and even the President's son in law. She says she wants to clean up Government, but she is the problem of government by not sitting down at the table and working with the otherside. That is wrong. Building up support by spreading hate does greater harm to Americans and now we as American have got to use our vote to stop hate for America.
"music is your own experience, your own thoughts, your wisdom. If you don't live it, it won't come out of your horn. They teach you there's a boundary line to music. But, there's no boundary line to art" - Charlie Parker. www.lodge-co.com
You and I as business owners need to take time to understand various threats when it comes to business identity theft.
Today we are talking about the differences financially of purchasing a car or to lease. To buy or lease, that is the question.
Here are some leasing strategy for your next car. But remember, leasing always cost more then buying. So we need to talk about some strategy to reduce your leasing costs. www.lodge-co.com
It takes some work before you can work. Too many people are creating MLM videos that are selling you a load of nonsense. Make sure you understand what a MLM is and a pryamid scheme is before you sign anything. 99% fail per the FTC report. Do some work, study the organization, before you consider to join. If you are selling financial products to people through a MLM make sure you are getting trained in the product you are selling to clients. Don't put your client at risk because you are looking more at a commission instead of how the product can help your client. Not all products are for every client. Know your craft and products.
The IRS generally can't even make your attorney to produce documents. The attorney - client privilege is strong so that client (civil & criminal cases) will be forthcoming with their attorney Accountants, however, don't have this privilege. If you make statements or provide documents to your accountant, he can be compelled to divulge them no matter how incriminating. www.lodge-co.com
God is always on the alert, constantly on the lookout for people who are totally committed to him, to his plan, so that he can bless you.
The women who follows the crowd will usually go no further than the crowd. The woman who walks alone is likely to find herself in places no one has ever been before....Albert Enstein www.wbtpod.com
If you are in California and you have legal business entity you have to file your Statement of Information with the Secretary of State timely. You can do it online with the SOS. The fee is $25, however if you don't file on time it will jump to $225. And if you don't file at all you will be suspended and then you have to go through a whole new process to get it back online. The SOI has to be filed every single year and they send you a little tiny postcard, but if not go online and see if it is time for you to file. Get it done.
You need to be advised on what it takes to be an independent contractor, be aware of your rights as an Independent Contractor, you are running a business as you see fit. However, if you have no contract in place you are not protected, and your client is not protected. This opens a billy wack of worms to harm your independence.
All businesses must monitor their employee ethics, personal and business. One bad apple can take a whole company down.
Two individuals were harassed this week from the Maxine Waters mob on conservatives. As they had their breakfast at a resturant all of a sudden ANTIFA showed up with other liberals to verbally attack and throw water on two young Americans. Maxine's hate - strikes again.
A common mistake of businesses is that you don't pay enough attention to your accountant. If you need an accountant call our office at: 888.681.1518 www.lodge-co.com
God knows what's going on in your life - and in your wallet. He knows all of your needs even before you ask. He wants to help you out. Listen to all of our podcasts on www.wbtpod.com
The best way to spend the last days of summer is at the beach and listening to music. Let's have a work free Saturday. www.lodge-co.com
Are you guilty of slipping into servicing mode - instead of serving mode? The word serving sets a totally different standard. www.lodge-co.com
However good your product or service is, the simple truth is that no-one will buy it if you don't know your product or your customers need to buy what your're offering - unless you clearly understand what it is your customers really need is and how your product will fit their needs. mlodge@lodge-co.com
You have to know your product in order to, 1) define your target audience, 2) to know how to reach your audience, 3) to know the problem you're solving for your potential client, 4) how to understand your client's buying journey and more. Know your product, or become a risk to yourself and your client. www.lodge-co.com
A recent study came out that said 43% of millennials quit their job after two years because it is too hard. Can you believe this reason, they are unfit to do the job because it is too hard and they give up. How unfit are you?
Product knowledge is the most important tool for closing sales. It instills faith, trust, and respect in the customer, which creates a positive customer experience. The importance of product knowledge represents itself the most in these situations. You have to know your product to know if it is the right fit for your client. If you don't know the product you may put your client at risk, it may be the wrong product or services for your client. "An investment in knowledge pays the best interest - Benjamin Franklin". www.lodge-co.com
Proverb, The world of the generous gets larger and larger; the world of the stingy gets smaller and smaller. Sow generously to reap generosity. www.lodge-co.com
Work free Saturday, it is french music today. Sitting back and thinking of France and the romance of Paris. www.lodge-co.com
It is important to understand how the GDP get's calculated. There is a four-part formula: C + I + G + (X - M) = GDP. Which means, Personal Consumption Expenditures + Investment +Government Spending + Exports - Imports that gets us to Gross Domestic Product. Very important number for all of us to know how well the company economy is growing and compare it to other countries. www.lodge-co.com
There are big and small ponzi schemes out there, waiting to get to your money. Let's talk about how to protect yourself and your financial strength. If it is too good to be true, run. www.lodge-co.com
There are so many scams and scammers out there. In this podcast we talk about some of the top scams out there. Hold onto your money. www.lodge-co.com
There are a lot of people out there that want to get involved with you but are not the people who they say they are. Let's talk about the red flags that pop up when you meet these people. www.lodge-co.com
There is no such thing as getting rich fast. So many get rich schemes out there that are worthless. The only person making money is the guy selling you something. Walk Away. www.lodge-co.com
Life is not about things. You've got to maintin the right perspective about possessionsk or you'll be possessed by your possessons. Life is about Relationships, no acquisitions.
Sit back and relax to some jazz. No politics. No Business. No Taxes.....just jazz to relax to. www.wbtpod.com
Every single day we are being attacked by political hate. It is everywhere. We no longer respect each other as Americans. It is time to rebuild America.
Before you go out and get your marriage license and say I do, sit down and do a financial compatible check list. Where do you stand financially? The problem is that financial problems cause a lot of stress in a marriage, and it has destroyed marriages.
Everyone is attacking everyone. Political hate is dividing our nation. Trump went to meet with Putin and the media and politicians attack. Let's start using some common sense with our own personal decision making on politics. Put the political hate and spin to the side and start thinking with your own brain. But, if you are going to run your life with political hate then this country has no help from you to make this nation better. Think outside the box, don't let the politicians on the left keep you inside a box. Peace is good, political agendas are evil.
God is more interested in your heart than your sins. You're never going to be perfect. You're never going to be sinless. But you can sin less. That is the choice of integrity.
Last night the President announced his pick for the Supreme Court Justice open spot. Immediately the left went berzerk, nuts, and started to rant about nonsense and attacking the constitution and the Supreme Court. Honestly, they sounded like communists trying to overthrow a government. We have to stand firm on the constitution, it is the foundation of what happens in Government and the law. It has to be protected. I encourage everyone to go out and read the constitution.
It is hard to fo forgive. We are surrounded by hate that makes us resent. It's time for us, in our lives to forgive. Let's talk about it today on this Church Sunday. www.wbtpod.com
Tariffs are not all that bad, it is a negotiating invitation to sit down and work out better trade deals and taiffs or no tariffs. Also, Smal businesses would be taking advantage of the current economic environment. www.lodge-co.com
Happy 4th of July America. This podcast is all about summer music, all independent artists. Sit back and enjoy and be proud to be an American.
I am so proud to be an American. This nation that give us so much, in the way of so many freedoms. I am so proud to receive this blessing of our nation. The liberty that is my birth right as an American under our constitution. Those that hate need to stop. Be proud of your nation.
"Beware how you trifle with your marvelous inheritance, this great land of ordered liberty, for if we stumble and fall, freedom and civilization everywhere will go down in ruin. - Henry Cabot Lodge"
Half a year done, July 4th is here. Have you decided what your goals are going to be for the next six months? Think about it because you have a half a year ahead of you to get something done.
This world has become very hateful in the presentation of ideas and throughts. Words become mean and evil towards others who do not believe as you do. What happened to "I agree to disagree"? Now hate stops the whole process of love in our words. Hate will do great harm to us as humans on this earth. We are responsible for our words and actions, and if hate is part of your conversation, you have a lot of appologizing to do.
I just traveled from South Carolina to Burbank and had the worse trip. Tickets were canceled without my knowledge and companies were pointing fingers at each other - with no care of the customer - ME! We need to do a better job at our customer service as businesses.
Hate is evil. Maxine Waters is the mob boss of hate in America. She doesn't believe in our liberty, to agree to disagree, to allow democracy to live. Her hate at some point will drive hate to do great harm. If this is the only message the Democrats have we have a problem in our great nation. Walk away from hate. I demand that Congress sensor Waters and that an ethics committee take action. Enough is enough.
Control your anger before it turns your actions and hate into a sin. Let's learn how in todays message.
In business you are faced with risk. Learn how to say NO to certain business deals and relationships that present you with risk.
Walk away from hateful politicians. By those that call people Nazi's in the media that hate American's. By those that show dishonest picture on their magazine covers - walk away. Walk away from hate and start getting involved in changing hate into love and doing something for your communities. Turn hate into love and make a change. Walk away from hate.
When you are starting a business there will be high and lows, issues that pop up, or crises that attack when you don't expect it. You have to be adaptable and deal with the issues, know that there are answers. Adaptability makes you stronger in business and in life.
The Supreme Court rules that states can collect sales and use tax on items sold in their state. This will raise the cost of items on the internet and will affect the small business guy selling on the internet.
Depending on what type of business and profession you are going into, you will need licenses and permits to operate under. And then you need to stay in compliance, it is constly to get out of compliance.
Democrats don't want to fix the immigration problems of our nation, instead they use it as a political agenda to gain power. They do nothing to fix a problem. The law that seperates familes started with the Democrats under the Clinton Administration and over the years the Dems have remained silence until they need it to win seats back in Congress and the Senate. All these years their silence on immigration, their do nothing political agenda, is corrupt. www.lodge-co.com
If you own a business and contract with independent contractors you need to do a better job of documenting your business relationship. Please listen to this podcast and learn what you need to be aware of. www.lodge-co.com
No matter what stage in life you are at, choose to be happy. Happiness has nothing to do with your circumstances. Just be happy, it is your choice.
Understand the following difinition, "MLM companies prioritize selling products and services over recruiting new distributors. Pyramid schemes, however, prioitize recruiting new members over selling products and services." There is a fine line that overlap MLM's and Pyramid Schemes. www.lodge-co.com
A lot of you are wanting to start your own business, some will get tempted to join a Multi Level Marketing organization. Stay away from them. You will spend a lot of time but will destroy several years of your life. Do better, look at a franchise or buying a business. This avenue may fit into your financial goals.
I was recently at a business gathering and listened to small business owners. Their main comment was that they only follow what is in the bank, not what their financial statements are saying. Knowing your financial statements will tell you how well your running your business. If you need help, send me an email at mlodge@lodge-co.com www.lodge-co.com
Every single day, 24 hours a day and 7 days a week we are bombarded with hate. Hate for Trump, for Americans, and it goes on and on. We have got to block this hate filled media and from politicians. It is so easy to play the hate game but it takes a lot of guts to get something done. Politicians have no guts anymore, all they talk about is their hate filled political agenda. Block them, turn them off, and use your own common sense.
When you are starting a new business you need to know what your start-up costs are going to be. If you need help send me an email at: mlodge@lodge-co.com www.lodge-co.com
So many things happening in business. Today we talk about a variety of issues affecting business. Let's talk.
What you believe shapes your life. Have you examed what you believe in? Has it affected your life so greatly that you have gone in the wrong direction. Think about it. www.wbtpod.com
Oh, what's in a name? A lot and it takes a lot of thought. Your name is the beginning of your business story.
There are many different types of business entities to think about when forming your business. This podcast decribes each one to give you a better understanding. This has to be considered when starting a new business. Contact me at: mlodge@lodge-co.com to help you through the process of forming a business entity or tax concerns. We are not a law firm but we are a tax firm who can advise you business tax issues and provide you with business formation services with no legal advise.
Today your vote counts. Don't sit on the sidelines and watch the process work. Get involved. Your vote is so important, you are important, to take back control over our communities, states and our nation. Vote out Liberalism.
You need to do something new, stop the old grind, learn daily and try new things always. The more you learn and try new things you will be a better person and inspire others. Stop sitting them - jump!
Every Sunday we come together, put our business and taxes to the side and focus on our spiritual needs. God can handle your emotions - he gave them to you. He understand you. Get it off your choice
Over the past weeks we have seen a good example of double standards in the media and business. Double standards are not longer acceptable, it is not ethical, it is time to end.
So far we have talked about starting your business - market research - writing your business plan, and today we talk about the various aspects of funding your start up.
When you first thinking about starting your business you need to think about doing market research. Look at the same services in your area, what they are charging, wages in your community, and the list goes on. Easy to do, you have so much data out there on the internet. You can dril down and see the data you need. www.lodge-co.com
Let's talk about the first steps in starting a new business. 2018 is the best time to start a new business. Americans are confident in the overall financial situation and have a little bit more spending power. Here are the first stepts in starting a new business and we will go into each step and more in deeper conversations. www.lodge-co.com & www.wbtpod.com
Our national politics has become evil. We have stumbled. We have let people be in control that have the wrong direction for America. Look at California, it has gone so far to the left that it has destroyed a state, lawlessnes, no order of law. We are doinging so much stumbling that we are about to fall. We need our order of law to be enforced or Americans will take drastic action. We as Americans have got to say enough is enough. We are not alone - we can do this together.
On Memorial Day we remember those who have given their life for our nation, for you and me. They served our nation. And we thank those who are veterans, those in the military who continue to serve. I as an American say - Thankyou. www.lodge-co.com or www.wbtpod.com
If you are angy, hateful, bitter about what has happened in life. Let it go. Refuse to be bitter. Do not let bitterness define you and it becomes part of your identity.
Stop doing your chanting on success, instead start working hard at your dream. Forget about support groups and get out there and just do it. No one is going to get to your success on a dream except you. www.wbtpod.com www.lodge-co.com
Have you done any planning for your retirement? Have you planned for your financial health as well on your physicaland mental health for retirement? Do it now. Call our office and talk with Jeremiah Pangan, toll free at: 888.681.1518 You have to do some planning, invest in your retirement. www.lodge-co.com & www.wbtpod.com
California has politicians that are pushing the agenda that has no common sense or good judgement. They are pushing a failed corrupt political agenda that challenges the Federal Government and the constitution. Now they want to make the taxes you pay into the State should now be a charitable contribution. New York is doing the same. These two states are out in stupidity land that it creates a bad situation for the people of these states. You can change this by your one single vote by voting these politicians out of office. Kick them out with your voice and find those individuals that will fight for you, not their party or political agenda.
The new tax law started January of 2018 and if you itamize you have lost some deductions. Sit down with your tax practitioner and go over you financial situation. Be proactive, you have half way through the year. www.wbtpod.com and read the blog I did on withholding.
California has a problem, and it's liberal politicians like Gavin Newsom who has done so much damage to California. It is time we vote out bad politicians and vot in people who is focused on Californians and not a failed political agenda. We have a problem and his name is Gavin Newsom.
You and I need a rest day, a sabbath, to recharge our lives. It is not that hard to do, as long as you devote time to rest.
It is a great weekend, time for a road trip as we drive and listen to music along life's road. www.wbtpod.com
Get a cup of coffee, you will need the stimulation as we talk about the new 2018 business tax rules. If you need a good tax firm visit our website at: www.lodge-co.com
I had a new client contact me about her LLC. She was having problems getting a EIN number from the IRS. I then asked her, "Do you know what a LLC is?" Her answer was no. So I hope this helps you understand, know what you are getting into.
We have had a week full of issues, now it is time to have a life. It is Saturday. Go out and have the best day ever. www.wbtpod.com
Many individuals in the entertainment industry operate as independent contractors, which means you are operating a business. Operating a business you need to be better organized. Set up a business entity and run it as your business.
Come on, if your kids can't read a simple clock there is something wrong. Parents, take back control of your students learning process. This is your responsibility. Can't read a clock? Then our tax dollars are going to waste.
Nothing happens perfectly in business, things change and you have to be ajile and adapt. Learn to be ajile in running your business.
The learning process should continue everyday in your business and in your personal life. Be creative so that it is a fun process. Go out and be a learning machine.
We have to learn to be faithful on the small things. If we are faithful on the small things we will be faith to the large things as leaders.
It's the end of the week. Let's just sit back and listen to some jazz. Remember the Italian saying, "The art of doing nothint". Enjoy
Know these two difinitions, Tolerance - The ability or willingness to tolerate something, in particular the existence of opinions or behavior that one does not necessarily agree with. Open-mindedness, broadmindedness, forbearance, liberality, patience, charity, indulgence, understanding "an attitude of tolerance toward other people". Bigotry is the intolerance toward those who hold different opinions from oneself, "the difficulties of combating prejudice and bigotry'. We have intolerance and political bigotry in American and that is dangerous to our nation. We must practice tolerance.
Today on May 3, 2018 it is the National Day of Prayer. Pray for our national, the corruption that runs through it, and pray for our families. Be specific in your prayers - but pray.
Our world is moving a 1,000 miles a minute. We are bombed with information every single day, even on weekends. It is time you and I stop for 15 minues and refocus.
There isn't enougn time in the day to get everything done. Use technology to help you. There is so much good technology that can save you soo much time. Take advantage of technology.
Don't show me your bling, show me your accomplishments. What have you built on your own. What profession have you made a success because you are damn good at it and you love to do it?
It is time for you to get involved and repeal the gas tax pushed on you by corrupt politicians in Sacramento. Go to www.secure.reformcalifornia.org. DO IT TODAY!
TAX season is done and I am heading to my home in South Carolina. Road Trip across America. Come along with me. www.lodge-co.com
We have been pushed to the side as citizens of California so that liberal corrupt politicians can push a failed political agenda. California's have got to end it before more damage is done. Gavin Newsom has got to be voted out of office, as well as other liberal politicians.
There is nothing wring with looking at what works in business, copying it, and tweaking it to work for you.
IRS Systems Go Down In Tax due day. Russians or just bad IRS computer systems? All of us have to be concerned about our data and how secure it is.
Don't feed your one cow all the grain. Simplify your business and the story you tell. Simplify!
Our constitution is be challenged by politicians, states, cities, judges. Our nation is under attack from within. Only Americans can stop this attack.
The first quarter of 2018 is over. Did you set your goals and meet them? What did you do the first quarter to grow your business? If you dont know we have trouble with a capital T.
Are We Safe From The FBI, DOJ, Corrupt politics, and now Facebook? We are in trouble in this nation and as Americans we have to stop this nonsense. We have to take back our nation. ASAP! Get involved, use your voice and your vote.
Sometimes we take the wrong road instead of the ethical road. The wrong road gets us into trouble. We have to do better.
Today is the time for you to get your life in order for death. Trusts, Estates, Wills, Healthcare Directives, Taxes - plan for it. Get it together.
California is being eaten alive by corrupt politicians pushing a liberal Agenda instead of doing what is right for legal Californians. They are destroying California and pushing people out. It is time to take back California and clean out the state capital.
Take Your Tax Refund - pay down debt, invest in your retirement, build an emergency fund. Don't just spend it. Do something money smart for your future.
Happy good Friday, go out today and ask for forgiveness and pray that you are able to forgive. God is good - always.
Your child's teacher spends a lot of out of pocket expenses to make your students learning experience better. They don't get reimbursed by their school. Don't you think you should help? Get involved.
The sweetness of doing nothing. Take One Hour A Day Just for yourself. Refresh yourself. Live.
So you voted to use Americans as your credit card to increase Spending? Watch As Americans Vote You out of office. Americans are not your credit card. Vote those out that voted to raise massive spending of our tax dollars.
Americans are not the credit card for bad spending by the Government. Veto this spending bill, it is bad for America.
2,200 pages of spending - NO cuts, pure spending with an open ended credit card being paid by Americans. Shut the government down and cut spending in places we were promised spending. More campaign lies and stupid liberal spending. It has to be stopped.
What happened to Trump and the GOP in keeping their promise to cut spending? Hold these politicians accountable for not keeping their promise to the taxpayers. Cut spending, we Americans have to do it every single day.
The time change has affected my body click where I wake up at 3 am. So let's chat. I am awake.
If you are self preparing your tax return, make sure you understand the rules. Scrub your return line by line and look up the qualification rules of the credits and deductions you are taking. You may or may not qualify. Make sure you catch everything you have entered, review it, scrub it. Best bet - hire a tax professional.
Turning 61 isn't bad at all. Still Moving forward with a smile and a desire to accomplish a lot more. Don't get in my way.
If you continue to run losses in your business year after year, are you running a real business or a hobby in the eyes of the IRS?
The FBI is still a strong agency, even though a few agents that acted unethical. We as Americans have got to hold politicians and government accountable for unethical activity. We Americans have got to do better at taking back control of our nation, all of us have got to become ethical in all things.
We have a call to action, we need more signatures to repeal the California gas tax that Gov. Brown pushed on California. Go to www.reformcalifornia.org or www.wbtpod.com (click on get involved) download the petition and get 5 signatures. Key word - GET INVOLVED AND REPEAL THE GAS TAX.
Find your sense of community. Walk down main street and live a new life, get involved. Slow down from the rat race, slow it down.
Don't just look at how much money is in your business account. There is more work to be done on your financial statements. Do it right!
Simplifying how we look at how government can stop an economy from growing. Over taxation and regulation always stalls, puts growth in hold. Challenge the media and political words of nonsense on the economy. They do so much harm.
Californians Have got to take back control. Liberal politics is not working, it is making California worse.
California's corrupt liberal politicians are challenging federal laws, the constitution, and doing great damage to Californians. We must hold them accountable. Enforce the law.
Tax refunds are goid to get, but it also means you over paid the Government. How you use that refund is important too. Pay down debt, invest, plan for the future. Be snart.
Before you even say I DO, ask the question - Are you financially compatible. Start of clean, know each other's financial situation. Be honest and plan together. Become debt free.
Hollywood will give out awards tonight and may spout hate through politics. Block the hate with prayer. God loves you, spread love through prayer.
America has been weak for way too long on trade with other countries. Sometimes a threat of a trade war is needed to even the playing field. Everyone knew it was coming, Trump warned us. No panic area here.
Today Rev Grahams body was placed in our nation's capital. His simple message was said again - God Loves You. Just as I am. Rest in peace, our nation's pastor, Billy Graham.
Hate surrounds us 24/7, block it. Listen to some jazz. Academy awards are going to be political - BLOCK it. Time to start finding ways to add value into our lives. Block hate and listen to some jazz.
Before you make any decision in life, make sure it is ethically driven. Do what is right before wrong.
Stop thinking you deserve something. Turn it around and start giving back to your family and community. What is your purpose? Get involved.
The media pounded on Trump for having notes in his hands. A crises requires notes, they become your teams talking points to ease the pain and crises. You listen to find ways to resolve problems. Notes are vital. They are a sign of leadership and every team members should care those note always. This is not a political issue, it is a crises leadership requirement.
When you write a check to yourself out of your corporation you may just have created a tax consequence, a dividend. www.lodge-co.com. Ask your tax accountant on what to do.
You need to focus on better accounting practices. A few words in memory of Billy Graham.
Workvwith an accountant throughout the year, not just at the end of the year. Get clean financials working together. Contact Lodge & Co at www.lodge-co.com
Happy Presidents Day, or George Washington's birthday. How United are you as an American? If you are spouting hate about the President and our nation then you have no idea what the meaning of United States Of America is all about. Washington knew very well because he was part of the formation of this nation. Are you United with the country or are you trying to divide? Hate divides, but love of nation Unites for the good of our great nation. Are you United?
People may spout hate, they may disagree with you, call you names, make fun of you, bully you - Love them anyway. Block hate with love and respect. If you fight hate with hate then evil acts become stronger. Block hate.
I feel that I was being hit every single day on social media by people who hate politically. I have started to block them and a whole new world opened up. A better world of positive energy. Block Hate! Hate walks with evil, if you are spouting hate then you know evil too well.
Evil and hate hit America, killing again. Hate and evil travel together and finds that one weak individual to do its dirty work. Hate is arround us 24 hours a day, it is be spouted out by politicians and the media, people are attacking each other with words of hate, and then someone snaps. We have to do better. Words of hate do so much damage and speeds up evil to happen. You and I, we have to do better. Pray for Florida and out nation today. And keep praying for each other and our nation. Pray constantly.
It is 2018 and tax rates have changed for Payroll, fill out a new W-2. Also, other new tax issues.
Congress really set us up with their spending bill. They raised spending and debt but took no expenses away. The tax reform you just got will be taken away. They will raise taxes to pay for their debt. They will have no choice, and you and me are screwed again. Hold the Democrats and Republicans accountable and vote them all out of office who voted for more spending.
Between California and New York, all of the rest of the 48 states, do not think or see things as these two liberal states believes. Totally different, California and New York do not speak for the rest of the nation. The 48 states are the silent majority that makes the changes in government.
If your starting a company that is new and starting up, those start-up costs are deductible on your tax return. Talk to your accountant or send me an email at: mlodge@lodge-co.com and I will walk you through it.
Did you Renew your ITIN?
Main meat - Adam Schiff has taken a committee process and the memo on FISA and turned it into political corruption with lies, leaking information out to the press while in closed door session, has called members of his committee untrustworthy. Then he comes out with a Democratic memo on the same subject and named committee members names in it, and the memo does nothing. He is more concerned with his political agenda instead of doing what is right for the American people.
In running my business I have learned a lot over the course of my lifetime since 1984 when I first started my firm. I came accross this really good article that I want to share with you.
Don't sweat the small stuff, smile instead. Think about the empty words that you use. We are accountable for every single empty word that comes out of our mouth. Focus, don't sweat the small stuff in life, you can get through it. Just smile.
We as Americans have to do a better job in holding our government accountable in he ethics of upholding their oaths of office, in protecting the constitution, and protecting Americans. FISA is a good example how oaths and ethics was put to the side to fulfil their political agenda. This should never happen, the FBI and DOJ must always remain independent of politics, their focus should be on defending the Constitution and the laws of the United States. We must have good governance - not political agenda's.
We learned a lot of the FISA Memo from Congress, but the biggest is that the FBI had members that became politically corrupt. We also learned hat members of the DNC side of Congress will do anything to protect politically corruptness. We need to challenge our government to do better governance of the United States.
You and I are in control of our decisions. God gives us guidance on how to make decisions. And Give gave us the power to make our own decisions. We need to focus on the process of good decision making with God's help.
Sometimes we live with what we got in order to develop a good story to get to your next place in life.
Here are some things you need to know about your 2017 taxes. If you need a tax organizer, go to www.lodg-co.com and click on CLIENT FORMS. Get Organized.
If you focus on teaching your clients the business will come. Focus on learning, passing on the knowledge, show that you know business, and do what you do best. Focus only on the money and you will fail. Focus on your ability to do what you do best, help your clients, and there will be financial flow.
Tax Time is here and time to get your business and personal returns done. Remember S-Corps, LLCs, and partnerships are sue March 15th. C-corps on April 19th. 1099s and W-2s are due January 31st. Get organized, get your act together. www.lodge-co.com
We have a failure in government, it is shutdown but Americans keep moving forward. DACA may be the new hate word by Americans.
Americans should be mad as hell at Schumer, Pelosi and those that voted NO on the spending bill. DACA has to stand on its own, not be tied to the spending bill. Doing so make it pure corrupt politics by Schumer. This is a Schumer Shutdown and I am pissed.
Today the California Attorney General said he will prosecute businesses who comply with the sweeps by ICE. This action puts California businesses in legal jeprody with the Federal Government. California businesses need protection from the DOJ. Help!
You can learn a lot sometimes from a movie. I watched "All That Money" that showed how ruthless J Paul Gerry was in business and with his family. Probably the most dangerous type of individual to be around when everything has to benefit them, and them only. All of us know these types of people.
Our Immigration System Is In trouble, the President is frustrated along with the American people. politicians play politics and flip out the race cards. Americans are angry at these politicians - they do nothing to solve the problem, they create a bigger mess. Americans pound on your Senators and members of Congress to get something done.
Be prepared for your tax preparation appointment. Get a tax organizer at www.lodge-co.com
Every start of the year we should focus on our growth in our personal and business lives.
My final podcast for 2017. In the final moments of the year we must reflect and respond, make 2018 a better year. Happy New Year!
We always forget what Christmas is all about. We think that the world is unfair, you have been treated unfair. But you have also been unfair to other people. If you have a need for prayer send an email to: mlodge@lodge-co.com (thanks to Rick Warrens Daily study)
Ethics and Conflicts of Interest is very important that we all focus on this issue. In our business, government, church, what ever we are doing we need to think about conflict of interest. If you have any questions send me an email at: mlodge@lodge-co.com
California is out of control. They are now looking at taxing you on a per mile basis. You need to get involved in repealing the current gasoline tax increase and stop them from making you pay per mile. California - take your state back from corrupt liberal politicians in Sacramento. Do something before they tax you on everything. Get involved by going to www.wbtpod.com and click on GET INVOLVED
The world has changed with everyone having an agenda, most of the time presented by irrational people. So today we talk about how to deal with the irrational.
For this next year as Americans we need to challenge the data and information being spun to us. Challenge the unethical members of Govenment that are not following the issues of ethics, double standards, conflict of interest. This needs to be challenged by us as Americans. Forget what party you are a member of - do it as an American - challenge bad government.
The liberals have destroyed a nation that was built on truth and honesty, but now we are run by corrupt politicians trying to destroy the President nad our vote. No matter what, they will try and destroy a naion through their political agenda. Stand up, challenge those spinning nonsense, stay focused, know your data. Dont let them play dirty, challenge every thing.
Christmas is almost here, but your 2017 tax situation needs to be thought of. Be proactive, talk to your tax accountant, see if there is anything you can do to reduce your tax liability n your tax return, but you have to do it now. Be proactive.
Resentment causes too much trouble. We see it everyday in our lives, and perhaps we have resentment against others. It is Christmas time - Forgive.
Usually I do a podcast everyday on business and taxes. Let's put them to the side and listen to some new Christmas music. Merry Christmas everyone
The adoption expense deduction may go away, that is ok. There are deductions that should go away because it is open for audit. Every single deduction you take can open an audit. But we adopt out of love - not as a tax deductions.
December 31 is the due date to revew your ITIN, you don't have much time if you need to renew.
You only have a few weeks left, you need to call your tax accountant and go over where you stand today on your taxes. Do you need to fill out a new W-4 for year end? Do you owe taxes where you need to take out extra for 2017 on your payroll. Are there 2018 tax deductions that you can pay for in 2017. Talk to your tax accountant today. If you owe a business do not wait until the last minute in 2018, you should be working on your financial statements now. If you need for my firm to prepare it call us at: 888.681.1518
The Senate and the Congress go into conference to grind out the final bill to go to the President - if passed. Sen. Collins said she may not support this final bill. So we need to get involved and tell these politicians - get it done.
Merry Christmas, it is the Christmas season. Sunday I take off my accountants hat and put on my clergy robe, I love Sundays. Remember you have so much to give. Giving doesn't mean money all the time, it can mean giving of your generous life to others. Reach your hand out to people and wish them a Very Merry Christmas. Thank you to Rick Warrens daily lessons.
So I am very happy I was wrong. I really thought at least two Senators were going to stop the tax reform bill to move forward. I was wrong - thank goodness. However, I am not happy with the Democrats who sit on the side, moaning and complaining, pointing fingers, spinning lies, and adding nothing to the discussion of tax reform. This hate game has got to stop, it is getting old.
The State of California and the City of San Francisco have blood on their hands for being a sanctuary of illegal criminals. California is no longer safe for Americans who believe in the laws that protect all of us. This death was preventable by not allowing this killer to be in their city, but they chose to protect that killer. Worthless.
Two Senators have become a liability to the GOP in the Senate that want the President and Tax Reform to fail. Political Karma is a bitch when you go against the will of the american people. Will tax reform happen? Probably not - Senators want to play politics.
We need to develope some success principles everyday as we run our business and are employees.
Shummer and Pelosi refused to sit down with the President and talk about the budget and spending, but they have no new ideas. Instead of participating in the democratic process they don't show up to the table. That is dangerous to America.
There are several GOP Senators that want to play politics with Tax Reform instead of doing what is good for the American people.
You may not have the most money in the world to give at Christmas, forget just money, use your talents that God has given you to help someone. Don't let your talents go to waste - give them at Christmas
It's that time of the year when it is the time for giving. Let's go over the rules of what is deductable and at the same time focus on our communities. People need our help.
November 25th is Small Business Saturdays, support your communities small business. When your out shopping - don't forget about your teachers needs. Every school season teachers are taking money out of their own paychecks to buy school supplies for their students. This is not right, call your teacher and ask them what they need for their classroom. Get involved - support your small business and your teachers. Get involved this Christmas season. Merry Christmas.
Happy Thanksgiving to all our our listeners, our friends, clients and staff. Our offices will be closed from November 21 through the 27th. If you have any concerns please send them to: info@lodge-co.com
Why are Americans paying for the settlement of sexual harassment charges for members of Congress? How much have been paid out and who are the people involved. I demand he pays that back to the Congress and that money be returned to the American people. For those of you who have been harassed have legal rights to sue and report, if you don't it will keep going on. Stand up and use the legal venue available to you to stop the harassment.
If you are having problems with your personal finance and your tax issues you can start to plan now. Create a budget, Save, Create an Emergency fund, pay your bills on time, sit down with your tax accountant and discuss your W-4 for your 2017 tax return. Be proactive!
California, we have a lot of problems in the state of California. A new gas tax that needs to be repealed and a law that made the state a santuary state. That is not acceptable. Get involved. Go to my web site at www.wbtpod.com and click on the tab "GET INVOLVED". We need your help.
Sunday is my day to take my accountant and business hat off and put on my spiritural robes. Today we talk about the talents God has given us. Asking the questions are we using them to do good? During the tough times of our lives God is giving us an educational experience because he has a plan for us. Sometimes it takes a mountain to trust in these talents he has given us.
How did we loose control of our nations government. We have individuals in politics that are pointing fingers but doing the exact same as they accuse the other person of. This has got to stop. Those that have been caught the ethics standard should be - resign from office. We have scoundrals playing dirty politics and enough is enough.
Every year about this time I start to think about what to give employees for Christmas. Items that can motivate them but also say Thank You for a job well done. Let's be creative this Christmas season.
Sometimes you and I are put into situations on responding to questions, some of these questions are aggresive and need a well thought out response.
Congrats to the House of Representatives for passing tax reform - however it goes to the US Senate - will they screw it up? Pass the House bill and move forward. The Senate version is worthless. Keep you promise to the American people.
There are several tax planning activities you can still do to help you for your 2017 tax return.
There are several tax issues you need to think about when going through a divorce. Take some time and work with your tax practitioner.
The Senate tax reform bill needs to be trashed. We need to be working with the bill out of Congress because it does more things to help business and taxpayers. The Senate bill needs to be shreaded.
I love Sundays. This is the day I take off my tax accountants cap and put on my clergy robes. Today we are talking together about humility. Be humble or your will stumble. Wisdom that we need to pray for daily. I think Rick Warren for this lesson study.
Today is Veterans day. My father was a Veteran, he took a bullet that was in his body until the day he died. In all the years growing up I never heard one American go to my Father and say - Thank You. I want to say Thank You to my father on this Veterans day - for a job well done. Thank you to all Veterans who have served our country and to all the men and women who continue to serve this nation. Thank you for a job well done.
In reviewing the two bills there are differences. Congress has a good bill - so far, and the Senate stinks to high heaven. The Senate bill has no idea what tax simplication is. The bill in Congress still needs work but much better then the Senate. Get your act together Senate, what you have presented is not tax reform.
You only have a few weeks to look at your financial statements and see how well you have performed. It is also time to look at the goals you did not accomplish and what needs to happen for next year.
It is only a few weeks to the end of the year. It is vital that you understand your payroll stuff, look at your W-4 and see if you need to increase or reduce the amount of exemptions you need to adjust. If you have had a life change your W-4 needs to be adjusted for those changes.
In our daily personal and business lives there are hard truths we need to accept to make us stronger. Here are 6 thuths that help me and should help you. Lets become stronger.
We need to be more proactive in monitoring social media that involve our employees, clients and associates. Is there something there that will help us follow - see something - say something.
I ask that all of you bow your heads and pray for the community of Texas. They have gone through so much grief, but they are not alone. You and I are with them in Prayer.
It is so important that we focus on our integrity, how we deal with people, how we keep our promises. It is also important for us to weed out those that don't have integrity. Focus this week on your intigity, it is what defines you before people and God.
I am happy to be back in South Carolina. We are getting ready for the tax season and reviewing the aspects of tax reform. Too many things going on so lets get involved.
How many outdated laws do we have that can do harm to Americans? I find this diversity visa program out of date and not acceptable in a current situation with countries that hate us. Senator Schummer, what in the world were you thinking? Worthless.
Congress is not doing real tax reform - demand that they do. California you gas tax goes up on Nov 1 and you did nothing to stop it - repeal it.
Indictments can teach us a lot about having foreign bank accounts and not reporting them to the Treasury Department and the IRS. FinCen and FBAR, learn those two terms.
Many of you use biased data to support your business or political arguments, or to make business decisions with. Learn to look at the entire picture, or all of the pieces of the pie.
Are we really working at marketing our businesses? Are we hoping that when we have a web site that business will flow in? Are we doing enough?
The Senate passed their budget, but that is not the end. There is a lot more that needs to happen. But will Congress have the balls to do it?
Everyday when I wake up I try to find words that will motivate me for the day. I repeat some of these motivational quotes to inspire me for the day. Being motivated is a daily responsibility to get up and do great things.
I listened to Gen. Kelly as he went throug step by step of the process when solder dies. Rep. Wilson of florida took a great life of a soldier, who died in service, and turned it into a political circus. This kind of hate has got to stop. We deserve better.
I was watching the show pickers and found that I am old, because everything they were looking for to buy and sell, I was alive when most of it were there when I was a kid. Now they are worth thousands of dollars. But as time goes by I have grown up with technology changes, today I keep learning and I encourage all of you to learn as much as you can.
Are you still being creative? Do you continue to learn? Do you have passion for what you do? Do you have optimism in what you do?
So far Congress has made a lot of promises but have done nothing to get key legislation done. No one wants to work together to accomplish the goals of the American people. Be fair to the American people and keep your promise.
Referrals are the best way to bring in clients. You have to work at it, local customers are vital to your business. There are several ways to get referrals - but you have to work it.
Every start-up, new company, current operating company, need to know how to tell your story. That is how people know about you, and your employees will know.
Over the past few days we have seen how a board of directors failed to protect the company they served. They let a leader of the company become sexual abusive to talent and employees. All boards should be held responsible for allowing leaders to become a major risk to the survival of the company or non-profit.
We have gone hrough a lot of grief in this nation over the past few weeks. You are not alone in your grief. You have a community that grieves with you, God is with you. Have strength in knowing your not alone.
Many times we have been on social media and debating political issues. However, if the other side does not have an argument to back up their political agenda they start calling you names. Debate is about data, if you have an arguments make sure you know what you are talking about. Know your argument with data.
For 30 years Hollywood corporations new there was sexual abuse and leadership abuse - but did nothing. I encourage all boards to start looking at their leadership top down, their policies and procedures and communicated with their leadership, talent and employees. Boards - do your job.
California and their liberal politicans have been spreading the story that California is 6th in the world economy - but they have not told you the real story that California is in a risky situation because of bad liberal state management.
Business owners need to learn to ask questions. What can I do to help you? What do you think? How can I do better
America changes and as a small business you need to know how demographics are changing. You may need to adjust your business model slightly to take into consideration the change. Know your demographics.
The only way for you to understand what is going on with your business is by budgeting and understanding your financial statements. These documents help you know where you are doing well or why you are loosing money. Call my office at: 888.681.1518 and ask to set up an phone or meeting with Michael Lodge.
It is political Tuesday and time to talk about Congress doing nothing, Corker tweeting very badly, and Harvey Weinstin and the corruption of Hollywood.
It is now October and it is time to prepare your 2018 budget, it is vital for you to look at your risks, sales cycles, and other issues that may come in 2018. Be prepared and be ready for a great 2018. If you need someone to prepare your budget for 2018 send Michael Lodge and E-Mail at: mlodge@lodge-co.com
Here is my scary story that really happened to me in France. A battle between good and evil. Evil did not win but it made it's presence known. Happy Halloween.
Natural disasters have really been plentiful this year. So after the disaster you may have to reconstruct your records for tax purposes or insurance. In this podcast we go over the stepts. You can read the blog on this subject by going to: www.wbtpod.com
California has become a risk and is no longer a viable state to start a business or live in. High taxes, social politics, liberal political agendas are chasing out the middle class and businesses.
We are surrounded by hate, everywhere we go we seee or hear hate. It's time we stop hating and start getting more involved in our communities. Put hate to the side and start spreading love instead of hate.
With so many events happening in this world, you never know when evil will strike. Put in place a crisis plan so you are prepared and protect your company.
Nothing is getting done in Congress. Tax reform is needed and the members of Congress play politics. We have three types of members of Contress - The Hater of Trump - The Ones Tied To Lobbiest Groups- and The Member of A Party Faction. The role of Congress has been corrupted and nothing will get done on real tax reform. Reducing tax rates is not tax reform.
I love living in South Carolina. You will have people come and just visit with you. Doug Deforest has a great song that we share with you today - "I Guess I'm Living Right". Go out, talk to people, put your political hate to the side, lock it in a closet, and start getting to know people.
You need to focus on several things when doing a side hobby apart from your real job. Is it a business or a hobby? You need to ask that question because the IRS will ask that question if you have a history of losses.
Political agendas do nothing to tragedy. But prayer, helping those in pain on a day of trageday, to heal. Politicans that turn tragedy into a political event are worthless. Pray today.
We need to do better about our personal finances. This is a story of a 27 year old kid who saved up to $200,000 and gives some sound advice on how he did it.
When you start a new business you have done some strange things. Taking phone calls in the strange places, have done almost everything. It is a walk of life that you will always remember.
When did Dr. Seuss become racist? Just remember if you believe in good, being independent, being your own person, it becomes racist with Liberals. How corrupt was this Libraian to take a childs book and turn it political. Enough, let kids be kids and let them live a political free childhood.
There are several unusual deductions that people do not know is available to you. www.wbtpod.com
Vacation homes are popular in various parts of the country. But there are tax issues on how you use that vacation home. www.wbtpod.com
Tax cuts is not tax reform. We have over 74,000 pages in the IRS tax code and no one is addressing the complecated mess of taxation. It is too complecated and Americans do not know what they are signing - under penalty and purjury.
The Equifax credit data breach may affect your tax return. You have to be proactive in protecting your tax data.
Nothing is getting done in Congress. We have no leadership in the Senate and the Congress to get things done that we put them there to do. Congress has become a failure and it has to change.
When you get to the time to retire there may be reasons why you can't stop working. Let's talk about it.
If you are driving badly, bothering people, taking your time, texting or facbook checking is usually how you act in business and the office. Think about it.
Divorce creates a lot of stress, but not looking at your tax situation could also create more problems. Sit down with your tax professional and make sure you know the tax issues of divorce
Come on, I don't want to sit down on a Sunday to see a player making a political statements. I want to spend three hours watching a game and being entertained. Politics and Sports is not a good mixture
Politicians and government should not be involved in our healthcare needs. Politicians make healthcare very political and nothing can get done to fix or reform it. So they hold the process hostage through politics.
When starting out you may feel you need a partner, but reconsider, sometimes to reduce the risk it is better to do it yourself.
Liberals on the left are comming out with statements that pre-existing conditions will not be covered - lie, it is in the bill. So let's go over what is in this bill before you start spouting political spin.
The tax collector was looked at lower then a robber. They were looked at as unclean. They were taxed on everything and nothing has changed until today. We need change.
This is political Tuesday. Congress still has not done tax reform or ACA repeal and replacement. Also, Thank you to Trump for a strong speech to the United Nations.
Update for the State of Florida on tax returns the IRS has offered you some relief. If you have any questions please go to our blog on www.wbtpod.com
There are really good tax benefits you can take on your tax return for tax benefit in obtaining your degree or higher education. Take advantage of it. Go to www.wbtpod.com and read the blog on Education Tax Credits.
I am broadcasting now from South Carolina. And I am getting into the love of community, one of the loves here in SC is college football. I am learning, I have never followed college football before, but when you part of a real community - college football rules.
Learning makes you a better person. Spend an hour each day to learn, study about business and leadership. The more you learn the more you grow.
Politicians and americans have lost their ability to discuss the nations issues with common sense, instead it is replaced with hate. Hate ends any reason to listen to people to push hate agendas.
Every taxpayer is protected by the Taxpayer Bill Of Rights. Know them in dealing with any IRS issue that is thrown at you.
9/11 Teaches us to unite, to come together, and protect a nation founded on freedoms and responsibilities.
Hate has gone too far in our daily conversations with other americans. We need to stop this hate. Politicians have got to stop hating and start working together.
Divorce has tax implications to you. We have a very complicated tax code that deals with a complicated issues of divorce.
This is a call for all taxpayers to call their US senator to support HR 1843. This bill protects taxpayers from abbusive acts by the IRS. Call you senator today.
With storms reaching the United States soon I would like to provide you with an advisory in preparation of your financial records for the storms.
With every disaster like Hurricane Harvey - there are tax issues. Here are a couple that have come up that you need to be aware of.
Every day through your business life you have to be mentally strong. Let's go over the rules.
When you are starting a business or own one, you go through a whole lot of steps that shapes your success.
Today is the national day of prayer. Take a few moments, pray for Texas and our nation. Unify America through prayer and remove the hate we have seen. We pray from our hears for Texas and America.
The Congress is so spolit that how can it get done. No one wants to work with each other. I believe the President wants real tax reform - the problem is the Congres and Senate
It is not about the shoes. It is about the heart and trying to do good for America. Texas and Americans coming together nd helping people. It is not the time to put down people for political gain, it is about putting out yur hand and helping Americans. Shallow people need to go away unless you want to add value and help people.
Understanding your financial statements is vital for you to make good business decisions. The numbers don't lie and you have to ask the right questions.
The tax scammers are out there again. Watch and beware, do not open any emails that say IRS or FBI on them.
I am so very proud of the state of Texas. The communities have joined together to help those in needs. They need our prayers and help.
We have too many politicians and news channels that are promoting only hat and anti everything. Pelosi is out there every day hating everything, trying to tear down America, trying to tear down a Presidency, tearing down our democracy and our constitution. Enough, this has got to stop.
I decided to make the move, out of California and to a more business friendly state. South Carolina is my new home for business.
Everyone should take a road trip across Amerca, you learn that there is a big world in our nationa. Explore it. I am not in South Carolina and starting again.
Day one i went through California, Arizona and New Mexico. Now heading for an all day trip through Texas.
Toad trip starts today, leaving from Los Angeles and headung to South Carolina. Lets get going.
When a friend is in trouble dont run away, stand beside them and get theough the problem.
Democrats and Republicans are so politically driven that they have put the American will to the side. We have pure taxation without representation. This political division will stop any tax reform promised to the Anerican people. Dont blame the President, the failure rests on all of Congress.
It is time to sit down with your tax practitioner and see if you are paying enough taxes so none is owed at the end of the year. Dont wait until the end of the year, especially is you are self employed.
Great article in Inc Magazine by Jason Selk called "It's ok to disagree, just dont be disagreeable".
Peopke and business are always watching how you conduct yourself, your ethics in life and business.
Tip - clean up your offices. Get rid of stuff you dont need. Organize how you work. Just clean up and throw out.
After watching Sen McCains political moves on voting to repeal ACA it became clear that politics should not have any part in our health and care. They corrupt it with politics.
37% of Californians have no cash or savings, this is not good. This puts California at risk. California and its citizens are not good stewards of their money.
The Dems New Deal is no new change from their message that lost them the White House. Except they now want more control over busunesses. Worthless failure again.
For 8 years the congress and senate have promised to repeal obamacare and do tax reform. We still have nothing. NOTHING!!!
You may think that saying I Do is the best thing ever. However, you need to think about your tax issues before marriage. Put it on your "To Do List" in planning your marriage.
I started this podcast because I wanted to try something new. I got hooked on podcasts and said I wanted to try. So I did, because I wanted to do something just for myself. Jump out of your skin and do something new - for you.
Employment compliance issues takes time. Let's talk about issues you will be faced with
Dems created ACA and know it is broken and won't do anything to fix it. GOP say they can't do anything about Obamacare. It is now time to repeal it in full because neither GOP or Dems know what they are doing. Repeal it
Everyday I see this old man of about 89 come into work every single day. He inspires me.
The GOP can't pass repeal and replace Obamacare, don't even expect them to pass tax reform - it will not happen. They can't even work together.
When you have political arguments with people and they just spin, they have no idea what they are talking about. They spin and spin but will not listen to the data. If you are going to spin it leads no where. Spinning nonsense is worthless.
Many taxpayers panic when they get a letter from the IRS - Don't panice. To read the transcript of this podcast go to www.wbtpod.com and click on the tab "WBT Blog".
The GOP have had eight years of moaning and growning, making promises to repeal the ACA - to do tax reform. Nothing has been done. GOP do your job!!
In the world of sports millions of dollars are crossing hands, it is a fact of life. So the IRS will get involved, another fact of life. But with a good tax team around the sports Icon - it can be handled professionally
It is summertime and you are renting our your home or vacation home for income - how do you handle it.
I should have talked about his at the very begin of this series. 1 - get your personal finances in forder.
Know your statistical data about labor, hiring, banking and much more within your community you are planning to open your business in. Know your data - use the data links in our blog at: www.wbtpod.com click on the WBT Blog.
A messy desk is a sign of genius, according to science. I have a messy desk - who knew!
Market research is vital for you to understand what your market place and industry is doing. You need to learn about your customers and competitors in your industry. Market research has to be done - throughout the life of the business
Let's talk about putting together a business plan and the legal issues of stasrting a new business
If you are starting a new business there are questions you need to ask. You can read the blog to support this podcast at: www.wbtpod.com and click on WBT Blog.
Here is the bad part of life. You have a summer job and you have to think about the tax issues associated with the job.
This year is a great year to start a new business. This next week we are going to go through the steps, so stay tuned.
We need to look at our value as Americans daily. Look at our financial value. Think about it before we celebrate our nations birth.
When low income individuals are spending 40% of their income on luxury and not saving, then we have a problem. If any income level is spending their earnings at 40% on luxury there is a problem.
All of us need to be prepared for death, it happnes, it is a part of life. If you are still married you are a team, get everything ready so your spouse is prepared. If you are widowed, get prepared so your family is ready. I know, you don't like to think about it but it has to be discussed and planned for.
While everyone is at the beach during the summer time - scammers are trying to get your money. Beware of these scams.
Don't be afraid to copy a business model that is working. Don't recreate the wheel. Look at other companies and what their business model is and form it to fit your company.
Our tax code has become to complicated, out of date and putting Americans in trouble with the tax code. Please contact your member of Congress/Senate and tell them to simplify it. Go to: www.waysandmeans.house.gov/taxreform
We are in business but we don't know everything in business. Put together an advisory board that will be provide you with the best direction when needed.
Everytime that you are working on starting a business or working on a project - ask the questions "what is my legal risk".
We are all here for some special reason. Stop being a prisoner of your past. Become the architect of your future.
Everyone needs to set up their estate and will, at any age. And you need to know the rules of gifting your estate to your heirs.
Stop spinning political nonsense, read and study, be independent. Dont spin what politicians spin to you.
Our business skills are more vital today then ever before. No rely upon just technology, we have to focus on our business skills.
To read the new Senate healthcare bill - here is a link for you to read: www.icontaxgroup.org
If you are doing Lift, Uber or AirBNB you are part of the sharing economy and your running a business. 5 tips are here in this podcast to help you.
If you are operating your business out of your home - take the home office deduction. The IRS sent out a notice reminding small businesses to take the deduction - simplified or regular method.
If you are putting your vacation on a credit card you have just created debt. Debt is bad. You have other options.
ACA repeal and Tax Reform is needed. GOP Congress has had eight years to complain and come up with a plan. You have time to really think about this. Do not delay it any longer.
From the start of your business your brand image should be tied to your core values - your mission as a company.
Every business need to follow the ten commandments of business. It is vital to think big- but if you do not execute it will never get done.
Some of the most successful people I know are also the nicest. That's no coicidence, since no one ever does anything worthwhile alone - and that means building a great relationships is a key contributor to success. This is taken from an article written by Jeff Haden or Inc. Great article
Hate, it has caused a lot of problems in the world, but has not solved one yet - Maya Angelou