Keep What You Earn

Brooks Loughry, an aesthetic medical industry consultant with 20+ years helping practices move from discounting to value-based care. He discusses upgrading patient experience, why discounts harm trust, smarter revenue models like consultative selling and high-ticket packages, the power of referrals, and practical ops like rebooking, reducing no-shows, and team training to scale sustainably.

Today, we're talking about the world of business deductions and breaking down what they really mean for entrepreneurs and business owners. I'll walk you through what counts as a deductible expense, how deductions work, and why it's so important to be able to defend your business decisions. I'll also explain the difference between deductions and tax credits, what makes an expense truly deductible, and why documentation is everything. Plus, I'm sharing practical tips on how to categorize expenses properly, stay off the IRS radar, and make the most of every deduction available to you. What you'll hear in this episode: [0:45] Understanding Deductions for Entrepreneurs [01:50] Defining and Defending Deductions [03:45] IRS Guidelines and Business Expenses [07:35] Documentation and Diverse Categories If you like this episode, check out: Think Bigger Than a Niche How to Build Investor-Ready Financials Why The Rich Pay No Taxes and You Feel Left Out Learn more about our CFO firm and services: https://www.keepwhatyouearn.com/ Connect with Shannon: https://www.linkedin.com/in/shannonweinstein Watch full episodes: https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCMlIuZsrllp1Uc_MlhriLvQ Follow along on IG: https://www.instagram.com/shannonkweinstein/ The information contained in this podcast is intended for educational purposes only and is not individual tax advice. We love enthusiastic action, but please consult a qualified professional before implementing anything you learn.

Today, I'm diving into the pitfalls of complacency in business and how it can quietly hold you back from growth. As a fractional CFO working with a variety of businesses, I've seen firsthand how important it is to track performance metrics—especially revenue by employee—to identify your top performers and the areas that need attention. I'll share practical ways to stay vigilant and intentional in your growth strategies so that every decision moves you closer to greater profitability and long-term enterprise value. Tune in for actionable insights to help you maintain momentum and achieve lasting business success. What you'll hear in this episode: [0:45] Learning from Clients as a Fractional CFO [01:25] The Silent Business Killer: Complacency [02:50] Tracking Performance Metrics by Employee [04:00] Empowering and Rewarding Top Performers [05:35] The Importance of Revenue by Employee [08:45] Combating Complacency with Critical Analysis If you like this episode, check out: Your Finance Hire - Dos and Don'ts Ways to Maximize Customer Value From Founder-Led Sales to Sales Machine Learn more about our CFO firm and services: https://www.keepwhatyouearn.com/ Connect with Shannon: https://www.linkedin.com/in/shannonweinstein Watch full episodes: https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCMlIuZsrllp1Uc_MlhriLvQ Follow along on IG: https://www.instagram.com/shannonkweinstein/ The information contained in this podcast is intended for educational purposes only and is not individual tax advice. We love enthusiastic action, but please consult a qualified professional before implementing anything you learn.

Today, I'm speaking with Jim Emerich, founder of Backbone CFO, a fractional CFO practice that specializes in supporting construction firms and manufacturers. Jim and I talk about the role data plays in making strong business decisions, and he walks me through a simplified framework he created to help identify key financial issues and constraints that often hold businesses back. The framework focuses on five core areas: cash, profit, people, systems, and position. Jim shares insights from his work with business owners and explains how financial planning and a clear understanding of enterprise value can shape the growth and scalability of a company. Whether you're running a lifestyle business or working to build long-term enterprise value, this conversation offers practical strategies to move from chaos to clarity and control. What you'll hear in this episode: [01:50] The Backbone CFO Framework [05:40] Diagnosing Financial Issues [12:55] Case Study: Financial Control Framework in Action [24:00] Understanding the Data Equity Ratio [25:30] Framework for Financial Control [26:25] Managing Inventory and Cash Conversion [27:45] Educating Business Owners on Financial Metrics [29:00] Financial Projections and Growth Planning [34:35] Balancing Tax Savings and Enterprise Value [43:25] Aligning Business Goals with Actions If you like this episode, check out: How to Build Investor-Ready Financials Your Most Expensive Habit How to Create Enterprise Value for Your Business Learn more about Backbone CFO: https://backbonecfo.com/ Learn more about our CFO firm and services: https://www.keepwhatyouearn.com/ Connect with Shannon: https://www.linkedin.com/in/shannonweinstein Watch full episodes: https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCMlIuZsrllp1Uc_MlhriLvQ Follow along on IG: https://www.instagram.com/shannonkweinstein/ The information contained in this podcast is intended for educational purposes only and is not individual tax advice. We love enthusiastic action, but please consult a qualified professional before implementing anything you learn.

In this episode, I'm breaking down the idea of industry niches and why I chose a different path for my business. Instead of narrowing my focus to a single industry, I've built success by centering on core values, and it's made all the difference. You'll hear why understanding who you serve on a deeper level (their mindset, values, and behaviors) matters more than what industry they're in. I'll also share practical ways to apply this approach to scale sustainably, reduce taxes, and build long-term wealth. Tune in for a conversation that challenges the traditional "find your niche" advice and invites you to build success on your own terms. What you'll hear in this episode: [00:45] Rethinking the Niche Mindset [02:10] What Really Defines Your Ideal Client [04:55] How Core Values Shape Lasting Client Partnerships [08:40] Why a Diverse Client Base Creates Strength and Stability If you like this episode, check out: How Can You Shake Off Business Boredom and Thrive? Never Let Your Scarcity Show Creating Clients for Life with Racheal Cook Want to learn more so you can earn more? Visit keepwhatyouearn.com to dive deeper on our episodes Visit keepwhatyouearncfo.com to work with Shannon and her team Watch this episode and more here: https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCMlIuZsrllp1Uc_MlhriLvQ Connect with Shannon on IG: https://www.instagram.com/shannonkweinstein/

Today, Shannon shares tactical and actionable advice for entrepreneurs to improve their cash flow without making common mistakes. Learn the key differences between profit and cash flow, discover the importance of timing in managing your money, and understand how certain habits, like paying off credit cards too early or having a lax collection process, can sabotage your cash flow. Shannon also delves into the nuances of paying estimated income taxes and prioritizing your expenses to ensure your business runs smoothly. Tune in to gain insights that could be game-changing for your enterprise, and consider booking a power session to customize your cash flow strategy. What you'll hear in this episode: [0:45] Understanding Cash Flow vs. Profit [02:00] Common Cash Flow Mistakes [03:50] Prioritizing Payments and Collections [06:45] Rethinking Estimated Tax Payments If you like this episode, check out: How to Unf*ck Cash Flow Understanding What is Breaking Your Cash Flow Transform Your Idle Cash into Active Profits Learn more about our CFO firm and services: https://www.keepwhatyouearn.com/ Connect with Shannon: https://www.linkedin.com/in/shannonweinstein Watch full episodes: https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCMlIuZsrllp1Uc_MlhriLvQ Follow along on IG: https://www.instagram.com/shannonkweinstein/ The information contained in this podcast is intended for educational purposes only and is not individual tax advice. We love enthusiastic action, but please consult a qualified professional before implementing anything you learn.

Shannon sits down with Michele, the founder and CEO of FACE FOUNDRIÉ. Michele shares her entrepreneurial journey from running a successful women's clothing company to tackling her hormonal acne struggles by creating FACE FOUNDRIÉ, offering accessible and high-quality skincare experiences. Learn how FACE FOUNDRIÉ's focus on customer service, community engagement, and a scalable franchise model has led to its rapid growth. Michele also discusses key traits of successful franchisees, the importance of listening to customers, and innovative plans for the future of FACE FOUNDRIÉ. Whether you're an aspiring entrepreneur or a seasoned business owner, this episode offers invaluable insights into building a scalable yet high-touch business. [00:40] Meeting Michelle: A Unique Encounter [13:30] Scaling and Franchising FACE FOUNDRIÉ [18:45] Qualities of Successful Franchisees [23:45] Core Mistakes of Franchisees [27:15] High Touch Customer Experience [35:30] Balancing Standardization and Personalization [38:00] Future Goals and Innovations If you like this episode, check out: Your Finance Hire - Dos and Don'ts One of the Most Common Struggles While Growing Your Business I Hired My Husband - Here's Why Visit FACE FOUNDRIÉ's website: https://facefoundrie.com/ Interested in becoming a franchisee? Visit https://facefoundrie.com/franchise/#own Follow Michele @michelemanifests Learn more about our CFO firm and services: https://www.keepwhatyouearn.com/ Connect with Shannon: https://www.linkedin.com/in/shannonweinstein Watch full episodes: https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCMlIuZsrllp1Uc_MlhriLvQ Follow along on IG: https://www.instagram.com/shannonkweinstein/ The information contained in this podcast is intended for educational purposes only and is not individual tax advice. We love enthusiastic action, but please consult a qualified professional before implementing anything you learn.

Today, Shannon breaks down the essentials of bonus depreciation and depreciation recapture: two topics every business owner should understand. She explains how these deductions really work, why they're often about tax deferral rather than elimination, and what to watch for when selling assets or a business. You'll walk away with practical insights to help you manage your assets wisely and make confident, informed tax decisions. What you'll hear in this episode: [05:35] Consult your tax advisor before selling assets. [06:45] Discuss depreciation recapture impact with a tax professional. If you like this episode, check out: How to Create Enterprise Value for Your Business Why Enterprise Value is the Goal Build Like You're Selling Learn more about our CFO firm and services: https://www.keepwhatyouearn.com/ Connect with Shannon: https://www.linkedin.com/in/shannonweinstein Watch full episodes: https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCMlIuZsrllp1Uc_MlhriLvQ Follow along on IG: https://www.instagram.com/shannonkweinstein/ The information contained in this podcast is intended for educational purposes only and is not individual tax advice. We love enthusiastic action, but please consult a qualified professional before implementing anything you learn.

Shannon is joined by Joey Mure, founder of Wealth Without Wall Street. Joey shares his journey of creating financial freedom by focusing on passive income and debunking the traditional notion of trading time for money. The discussion dives into sustainable and customized wealth-building strategies that are not about quick fixes but about understanding and implementing a logical process. Joey emphasizes the importance of becoming an educated investor, leveraging unique methods like the infinite banking concept, and avoiding the pitfalls of relying solely on retirement accounts. This episode is a must-listen for entrepreneurs and business owners who want to gain control over their financial future and start living abundantly today. What you'll hear in this episode: [0:45] Meet Joey Mure: Founder of Wealth Without Wall Street [1:05] The Philosophy of Wealth Building [3:55] Rethinking Retirement and Financial Freedom [6:15] The Importance of Passive Income [9:30] Becoming an Active Investor [18:00] The Problem with Traditional Retirement [26:15] Infinite Banking Concept Explained Discover Your Financial Freedom Score: https://go.wealthwithoutwallstreet.com/keepwhatyouearn Learn more about our CFO firm and services: https://www.keepwhatyouearn.com/ Connect with Shannon: https://www.linkedin.com/in/shannonweinstein Watch full episodes: https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCMlIuZsrllp1Uc_MlhriLvQ Follow along on IG: https://www.instagram.com/shannonkweinstein/ The information contained in this podcast is intended for educational purposes only and is not individual tax advice. We love enthusiastic action, but please consult a qualified professional before implementing anything you learn.

Today, Shannon dives into the crucial differences between a bookkeeper and a fractional CFO, revealing why scaling businesses should consider the latter. Shannon explains how fractional CFO services provide deeper insights, strategic decision-making, and future-focused projections that surpass what a bookkeeper or an in-house accountant can offer. With compelling arguments and real-world examples, Shannon highlights the value and cost-effectiveness of hiring a fractional CFO to drive business growth. What you'll hear in this episode: [0:45] The Value of a Fractional CFO [01:20] Comparing Bookkeepers and CFOs [05:15] The Role of a Controller [07:00] Why Fractional CFOs Are Cost-Effective If you like this episode, check out: Ways to Maximize Customer Value I Hired My Husband - Here's Why Your Finance Hire - Dos and Don'ts Learn more about our CFO firm and services: https://www.keepwhatyouearn.com/ Connect with Shannon: https://www.linkedin.com/in/shannonweinstein Watch full episodes: https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCMlIuZsrllp1Uc_MlhriLvQ Follow along on IG: https://www.instagram.com/shannonkweinstein/ The information contained in this podcast is intended for educational purposes only and is not individual tax advice. We love enthusiastic action, but please consult a qualified professional before implementing anything you learn.Fractional CFO vs. Bookkeeper - What Do I Need?