m1-mba

Larry Rubin, known as “The Gift Card Guy,” saw a market being overlooked—small, independent businesses lacked the tools and guidance to create effective gift and loyalty programs. That’s why he founded Swipe It, a company dedicated to helping mom-and-pop shops implement customized gift card solutions with as few as 100 cards to start.

Originally launched as an off-campus meal plan card, Swipe It evolved into a powerful technology platform that allows restaurants and retailers to create their own branded gift cards. Business owners benefit in multiple ways—gift cards drive upfront revenue, and since nearly 30% of them go unredeemed, they create pure profit. Even better, when customers do redeem them, 61% spend more than the card’s value—an average of $31.75 extra.

Swipe It’s system also simplifies tracking, helping businesses monitor sold, redeemed, donated, and promotional gift cards with ease. Additionally, local Chamber of Commerce gift card programs, supported by Swipe It, boost small businesses by keeping spending within the community.

The key takeaway? A gift card isn’t just a convenience—it’s a powerful business tool.

Be sure to listen to the end for Larry’s awesome tip for a business card that not only leaves a lasting impression but also drives revenue.

What’s Inside:
—The creation of gift cards for small merchants.
—The power of a gift card program for small businesses
—A one-stop shop for creation, sale, and tracking for your gift card needs.

Mentioned In This Episode:
—Larry Rubin on LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/larry-rubin-6b74157/
—SwipeIt: https://swipeit.com/
—MBA CPA: http://www.mbacpa.ca

“The most important part of my practice is how I relate to the people I serve.” Guest, Dr. Michael Sonick, is not only a globally recognized expert in dental implantology and periodontology—he’s also the author of Treating People, Not Patients. This groundbreaking book isn’t just for dental or medical professionals; it’s for anyone in the service industry who wants to elevate the way they connect with others.

Dr. Sonick emphasizes a truth often overlooked: social and interpersonal skills are critical to healing and success. “When people feel better, they heal better,” he explains. It’s not about rushing to serve more people faster—it’s about delivering quality care with genuine connection and building lifelong relationships, not just transactions.

Too often, care is limited by fear-based barriers—lack of access to doctors, impersonal service, or rigid systems. Dr. Sonick believes that true professionals work to break down these walls by embracing authenticity and connection. It’s not about having all the answers, but about being real, approachable, and willing to meet people where they are. By creating understanding and trust, service providers can bring clients into their world and make them feel valued, supported, and informed.

So, how do you build a standout, people-first business? Dr. Sonick walks through his proven system—from the power of referrals to the impression your website and phone calls make, down to the smallest details of your office environment.

Pro tips? Clean your office every day. Have clean, well-presented staff in matching uniforms. Remove potential issues before they arise—because the first impression sets the tone, and you are the habits you display.

What’s Inside:
—The power of people skills.
—Refining the details that build a first impression.
—The importance of connection and vulnerability.

Mentioned In This Episode:
—Michael Sonick: https://www.michaelsonick.com/
—[email protected]
—Michael Sonick on Instagram @drmsonick: https://www.instagram.com/drmsonick/
—Michael Sonick on Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/drmsonick/
—Michael Sonick on LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/mikesonick/
—MBA CPA: http://www.mbacpa.ca

In this episode, we sit down with Grace Gavin, co-founder of Know Honesty, to explore the power of open and honest communication in the workplace. When employees feel heard and respected, they are 4.6 times more productive—but fostering this culture requires more than just listening.

Grace unpacks the nature of power dynamics in leadership and why many companies struggle to implement proven systems. She shares how organizations can move from low-honesty-low-openness to a culture of high-honesty-high-openness, emphasizing that leaders must go first in creating this shift.

We also dive into Know Honesty’s six-practice framework, covering:

•Assessment – Understanding your communication baseline
•Fake You – The persona you present vs. your true self
•The Wall – The barriers blocking real conversations
•The Agreement – Establishing communication boundaries
•The Still – Building self-awareness through reflection
•Your Pursuit – Gaining clarity on what you truly want

Plus, Grace shares a personal and vulnerable story that shaped her approach to honesty. Check out the free honesty assessment below and don’t miss this insightful conversation!

What’s Inside:
—What is the mission behind Know Honesty?
—How can an open and honest workplace increase productivity?
—6 process framework for the pursuit of honesty.

Mentioned In This Episode:
—[email protected]
—Know Honesty: http://knowhonesty.com/
—Grace Gavin on LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/grace-gavin/
—Free Resource: The Pursuit of Honesty Assessment: https://knowhonesty.com/assessment/
—MBA CPA: http://www.mbacpa.ca

This is one thing in life that is an absolute certainty: death. So how you leave your business, assets, and responsibilities behind matters. Sandy Pollack, CFP, CLU, TEP, FEA, MFA-P, is akin to the MBA Way with her collaborative, comprehensive approach to Estate Planning. Without a plan, your loved ones could be left with unnecessary headaches, legal battles, and financial chaos.

The key to disaster-proofing your legacy is intentionality. Your wealth should serve your lifetime and be strategically put to use after you’re gone. Open communication with your family about inheritance is crucial—silence often leads to the “lottery crisis,” disputes, resentment, and estate litigation that benefits lawyers more than your beneficiaries.

Work with collaborative professionals who can guide you through a seamless planning process. Estate planning is not a one-time event but a living, breathing process that evolves with your life. Whether it’s structuring your business, setting up trusts, or having honest conversations with your heirs, every step you take today ensures a smoother future for your family.

Don’t Leave a Mess provides actionable steps and exercises to help you take control. Don’t wait until retirement—start today! Your legacy should be a gift, not a burden.

What’s Inside:
—Why is Estate Planning important?
—What happens when you don’t prepare and plan?
—When should you start planning your estate?

Mentioned In This Episode:
—Don’t Leave a Mess!: http://www.dontleaveamess.ca
—MBA CPA: http://www.mbacpa.ca

Today’s guest, Beau Atkins, founder of Evolve Family Law, and I agree — billing by the hour is bull****. The outdated model of charging by the hour? Dead. May 2020 marked the end of that nonsense for Beau’s firm.

Law firms have long resisted the entrepreneurial mindset, clinging to archaic structures instead of operating like the best-run businesses. But here’s the truth: clients aren’t buying your time. They’re seeking certainty, peace of mind and solutions.

At Evolve Family Law, Beau has built something different — quite possibly the only law office in the world using value-based pricing with payment plans. Instead of justifying price by the clock, he factors in experience, the local economy and client needs, creating a sliding-scale pricing model that actually makes sense.

And let’s stop using the F-word (fee). Price isn’t just a charge — it’s an investment. Clients deserve the power to make informed decisions about that investment, just like in any other industry.

When you see a flaw in the model, you change it. Beau’s mindset isn’t just for lawyers — whether you’re an accountant, shop owner, or consultant, look beyond your industry. Learn from the best entrepreneurs and apply those principles to your own business.

If you need family law assistance, reach out to Beau Atkins at Evolve Family Law.

What’s Inside:
—Why billing by the hour has to die.
—An “Evolved” value-based pricing for law.
—Empowering clients to assess risk on investment.
—Looking to outside industries to improve your business.

Mentioned In This Episode:
—Evolve Family Law: http://www.evolvelaw.ca/
—Beau Atkins on LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/beau-atkins-105a273b/
—MBA CPA: http://www.mbacpa.ca

In this follow-up conversation with Krista Clive-Smith, we dive deeper into personal branding and its critical role in shaping your life and career. If you missed Part 1 (Episode 18), we recommend starting there, where we introduced two foundational frameworks, The Triangle and The Model.

Krista highlights that personal branding is the business model of the future. It’s your ultimate competitive advantage—something nobody else can duplicate. Your unique essence, experiences, and purpose form the cornerstone of this strategy.

Krista walks us through a powerful Venn diagram with four intersecting circles: Innate qualities, Learned skills, Life experiences & adversity, and finally Desires & calling. At the very center, these align to reveal your pathway to Purpose. Krista encourages you to explore your intuition, trust your hunches, and take small but meaningful risks. The changes might not be drastic—often, they’re small shifts that create a big impact over time.

Krista reframes the concept of a career, reminding us that it’s not just a job—it’s the body of work you create throughout your lifetime. She challenges us to align (and realign) our life choices to reflect the season we’re in and the life we want to lead.

Krista emphasizes the importance of answering three questions to shape your personal brand and career path:

—What life do you want to lead?
—What business do you want to be in?
—Who do you want to serve?

The first two questions are deeply interconnected, continually reflecting and influencing one another. As for the third, Krista suggests that the people you’re meant to serve are often a former version of yourself—someone who needs what you’ve learned along your journey.

Personal branding isn’t just about what you do; it’s about who you are and how you can create a meaningful impact in the world. Step into your purpose with courage, align your work with your calling, and watch your life and career transform.

What’s Inside:
—What is the business model of the future?
—The competitive advantage of the unique YOU!
—A venn diagram toward purpose.
—Three critical questions of alignment.

Mentioned In This Episode:
—Krista Clive-Smith: https://www.kristaclivesmith.com/
—MBA CPA: http://www.mbacpa.ca

Maximizing your PR visibility is all about leveraging on-screen opportunities to tell your story effectively—and Kerry Barrett is here to help you master it. With more than 20 years in the news industry, from small-town Texas to big city NYC, Kerry has the on-camera experience. She breaks down the difference between advertising, where you “pay to play,” and PR, which is about earning media publicity through your expertise. In this exploratory meeting, Kerry breaks down the essentials of using on-camera PR to your advantage.

One of the biggest obstacles entrepreneurs face in PR is crafting a pitch that resonates. Many pitches fall flat because they’re framed from a marketing perspective rather than a news angle. The key, Kerry explains, is to focus less on yourself and more on what value you bring to the audience. It’s about telling the story behind what you’re trying to accomplish and framing your pitch in a way that grabs attention. Thoughtful interview preparation—complete with layered answers, impactful sound bites, and a clear focus on three main takeaways—makes all the difference.

Kerry also emphasizes the importance of adaptability. The interviewer likely isn’t an expert in your field, so it’s up to you to steer the conversation. Pivot questions as needed and avoid overwhelming the audience with information. Instead, highlight your three core points, ensuring your audience walks away with the message you want to deliver. For more personalized training, Kerry offers a one-on-one video coaching course. Reach out to her on LinkedIn to get started!

What’s Inside:
—How to maximize your PR visibility.
—What’s the difference between advertising and PR?
—How to effectively pitch a PR opportunity.
—How to pivot questions for your best interview yet.
—The rule of 3 when it comes to sharing information with an audience.

Mentioned In This Episode:
—[email protected]
—Kerry Barret on LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/KerryBarrett
—Kerry Barrett on Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/IAmKerryBarrett/#
—MBA CPA : http://www.mbacpa.ca

Darren Mitchell of Control and Compound breaks down life insurance facts you didn’t even know were available—insights you can use to build your wealth. To become truly wealthy, you need to invest in yourself, your business, and your real estate. When you’re not investing, you’re giving up control of your money to the bank.

Life insurance has two components: the death benefit and the cash value. By lowering the death benefit, you can raise the cash value, creating a powerful financial tool that multiplies your money. This allows you to stay in control, seize opportunities, and handle emergencies effectively.

On the podcast, Darren explores term life insurance, permanent insurance, and whole life policies. Did you know only 1% of term life insurance policies pay out in Canada? Whole life insurance, however, can help maximize wealth by creating a cash-value asset that grows tax-free. This asset provides benefits such as tax-free growth, cash surrender value that doesn’t lose value, and no impact on your credit score.

For those unfamiliar with these concepts, Darren emphasizes that financial education is crucial. Different life insurance policies serve different needs depending on your goals and life stage. At Control and Compound, the focus is on optimizing the cash value asset to work for you—even though it means less payout for them. Their goal is to ensure your insurance plan aligns with your broader financial picture, empowering you to build a secure and prosperous future.

What’s Inside:
—What you didn’t know about life insurance?
—How to use life insurance to control your money and build wealth.
—Creating a cash value asset with life insurance.
—Understanding the difference between term, permanent, and whole life insurance.
—Financial education to ensure your insurance is the right fit.

Mentioned In This Episode:
—Free Resources for Listeners: Expert Investor Academy | Control and Compound Financial: https://www.controlandcompound.com/the-mba-way-podcast
—Control and Compound (@controlandcompound) on TikTok: https://www.tiktok.com/@controlandcompound?lang=en
—Control and Compound on YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCfW2enuzdBWgc2FduqGUiWw
—Control and Compound (@controlandcompound) on Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/controlandcompound/
—Control and Compound: https://www.facebook.com/controlandcompound
—Control and Compound Financial: https://www.controlandcompound.com/
—How Real Estate Investors Use Infinite Banking to Multiply Their Returns Webinar: https://hub.controlandcompound.com/real-estate-instant-access?_ga=2.243018443.830516902.1727655006-1076446690.1726453037
—MBA CPA: http://www.mbacpa.ca

Paul Aemisegeo’s journey to founding Payroll Mart is a testament to entrepreneurial grit and vision. Just after college, Paul discovered he “didn’t fit the ADP mold,” a realization that led him to a successful path in benefits and insurance. This experience gave him invaluable insights into the payroll industry, highlighting key challenges: the lack of personalized solutions for clients and the transactional approach of salespeople focused solely on closing deals.

Paul’s deep understanding of benefits and payroll inspired him to create a business that prioritized relationships over transactions. His philosophy? Sales should deliver value that outlasts the contract.

Through Payroll Mart, Paul embodies entrepreneurship by transforming low productivity into meaningful outcomes. He shares the highs and lows of his journey, emphasizing three keys to success:

1. Create value before expecting it—success starts with solving real problems.
2. Burn the boats, take the island—fully commit to your vision.
3. Be a relationship builder—people are the heart of business.

Paul also stresses the power of ideas: “Write them down, never let anyone tell you you’re crazy, and never think you have too many!”

If you’re seeking innovative payroll solutions or entrepreneurial inspiration, connect with Paul via LinkedIn or email at [email protected]. His story proves that breaking the mold can lead to exceptional results.

What’s Inside:

—Embodying the spirit of entrepreneurship.
—Why it’s okay to not fit the mold!
—3 keys to entrepreneurial success.
—Paul Aemisegeo’s entrepreneurial journey.

Mentioned In This Episode:
—PayrollMart: http://www.payrollmart.com
—ShuttleHR: http://www.shuttlehr.com
—Paul Aemisegeo – PayrollMart on LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/paulaemisegeo
—MBA CPA : http://www.mbacpa.ca

Guest, friend, and inspiring human Krista Clive-Smith breaks down the power of personal branding in today’s episode. Personal branding, she explains, is not about ego; it’s about aligning your authentic self and personal story, distinct from your business ventures and organizations.

Krista introduces the “Personal Branding Triangle,” which outlines the three core principles of a personal brand, which are what you DO, what you KNOW, and what you ARE, all framed within a growth-oriented mindset. This concept emphasizes working with healthy belief systems and a mindset focused on growth and expansion.

Once we’ve defined a personal brand, we explore what it means to flip the traditional structure of company branding. By placing personal branding at the top, we separate it from the organizational brand. Krista reminds us that change is inevitable, and if we entangle our identity too closely with our company, rather than the other way around, we create risk and limit our options.

Taking time to establish a personal brand enables our authenticity and humanity to shine through, which in turn is reflected in our companies’ cultures. Krista leaves us with a powerful analogy: our personal brand is like a theme park, and our business ventures are the distinct lands within this cohesive personal brand.

Krista has generously offered to connect with listeners as a “go-giver.” You can reach out to her via email or learn more by visiting her website.

What’s Inside:

—What is personal branding?
—Three core principles of your personal brand.
—Why we should separate our personal brand from our company brand.
—How an authentic personal brand reflects in company culture.

Mentioned In This Episode:
—Krista Clive-Smith: https://www.kristaclivesmith.com/
—[email protected]
—MBA CPA: http://www.mbacpa.ca