Vital Strategies
Welcome to Vital Strategies Podcast, where financial and tax expertise meets entrepreneurial success. Join us as we dive deep into the world of high-level entrepreneurship, bringing you top authorities who specialize in cutting-edge financial and tax strategies. Our podcast is your go-to resource for staying ahead in the financial game, offering insights and advice that can optimize your wealth, reduce tax liabilities, and supercharge your business growth. Tune in to gain a competitive edge and unlock the secrets to financial success in the world of high-level entrepreneurship.
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Episodes
3 days ago
3 days ago
Have you ever considered writing a book but felt overwhelmed by the time commitment, the process, or even the fear of not being "expert enough"? In this episode of the Vital Wealth Strategies Podcast, host Patrick Lonergan sits down with bestselling author Paul McManus, creator of The Short Book Formula, to uncover how writing a concise, high-impact book can establish your authority, attract premium clients, and generate millions in revenue for your business. Whether you're a financial advisor, entrepreneur, or service professional, Paul shares a proven roadmap to writing, publishing, and leveraging a book—without putting your business on hold.
Throughout this conversation, Patrick and Paul dive into the power of authorship, how to overcome imposter syndrome, and why a short book (12,000 words or less) is often more effective than a traditional long-form book. They also explore self-publishing strategies, AI tools, podcasting, and public speaking as ways to maximize a book’s impact. If you're looking for a powerful marketing tool to set yourself apart and scale your business, this episode is packed with actionable insights you won’t want to miss!
Key Takeaways:
Why a short book can be the most powerful marketing tool for financial advisors & entrepreneurs.
How to write and publish a book in just 6-12 weeks without stepping away from your business.
The secret to overcoming imposter syndrome and confidently sharing your expertise.
How self-publishing on Amazon KDP makes book distribution easier than ever.
The one strategy that helped Paul generate over $500K from a single podcast appearance.
How to use books, public speaking, and podcast guesting to accelerate business growth.
Learn More About Paul:
The Short Book Formula by Paul McManus
LinkedIn
Financial Advisor Success Podcast episode
Episode Resources:
Rich Dad, Poor Dad by Robert Kiyosaki
Resources:
Visit www.vitalstrategies.com to download FREE resources
Listen to the podcast on your favorite app: https://link.chtbl.com/vitalstrategies
Follow on Instagram at https://www.instagram.com/vital.strategies
Follow on Facebook at https://www.facebook.com/VitalStrategiesPodcast
Follow on LinkedIn at https://www.linkedin.com/in/patricklonergan/
Credits:
Sponsored by Vital Wealth
Music by Cephas
Art work by Two Tone Creative
Audio, video, research and copywriting by Victoria O'Brien
Tuesday Mar 18, 2025
Tuesday Mar 18, 2025
Are you struggling to grow your business because sales just aren’t where they need to be? Many entrepreneurs think that having a great product is enough, but without a strong sales strategy, even the best businesses can fail. In this episode of The Vital Wealth Strategies Podcast, host Patrick Lonergan sits down with Dave Hanley, a seasoned entrepreneur, sales expert, and three-time founder with over $200 million in successful exits. Dave shares his insights on why having the best product isn’t enough—it’s about having the right sales process in place. He breaks down the COD framework for crafting a compelling sales message, the biggest mistakes entrepreneurs make when selling, and how to build a scalable, repeatable system to drive revenue.
This episode is packed with real-world, actionable strategies for entrepreneurs looking to scale their businesses to $10 million and beyond. Whether you’re a startup founder, a business owner struggling with sales, or someone looking to refine your sales process, this conversation will give you practical steps to improve your approach and close more deals. Tune in to discover how to overcome sales roadblocks, build a winning sales process, and create long-term business growth.
Key Takeaways:
Why great products alone don’t lead to business success—sales strategy is key.
The COD framework: Capability, Outcomes, Differentiators—how to structure your sales messaging.
The importance of defining your ideal customer and narrowing your focus.
How to develop a repeatable, scalable sales process to drive consistent revenue.
Why personalized outreach beats generic sales tactics and how to stand out.
How to identify and overcome common sales roadblocks that stall business growth.
The role of persistence and strategic follow-ups in closing deals.
Episode Resources:
Selling With by Nate Nasralla
Learn More About Dave:
Official Website
The Delusional Founder
Resources:
Visit www.vitalstrategies.com to download FREE resources
Listen to the podcast on your favorite app: https://link.chtbl.com/vitalstrategies
Follow on Instagram at https://www.instagram.com/vital.strategies
Follow on Facebook at https://www.facebook.com/VitalStrategiesPodcast
Follow on LinkedIn at https://www.linkedin.com/in/patricklonergan/
Credits:
Sponsored by Vital Wealth
Music by Cephas
Artwork by Two Tone Creative
Audio, video, research and copywriting by Victoria O'Brien
Tuesday Mar 11, 2025
Tuesday Mar 11, 2025
Is your business truly profitable, or are you just generating revenue without seeing the financial rewards? In this episode of The Vital Wealth Strategies Podcast, host Patrick Lonergan sits down with Susanne Mariga, a Profit First Certified Master, author, and fractional CFO, to break down the powerful Profit First framework. Susanne shares how business owners can intentionally create profit, structure their pricing for maximum value, and make strategic financial decisions that lead to lasting success. She also dives into the importance of surrounding yourself with the right people and how small, incremental changes can turn your business into a wealth-building asset.
Whether you’re struggling to manage cash flow, stuck in pricing wars, or looking for a smarter way to grow your business, this episode is packed with actionable insights you can apply right away. Susanne explains how to implement Profit First, leverage Parkinson’s Law to maximize efficiency, and make financial decisions that support your long-term goals. Don’t miss this conversation—it could be the key to transforming your business into a highly profitable and sustainable operation.
Key Takeaways:
Profit First isn’t just a concept—it’s a system that ensures you keep more of your money.
Pricing should be based on value, not competition—know your worth and charge accordingly.
Your network influences your success—be intentional about the people you surround yourself with.
Profit First works with human behavior, creating scarcity and structure to improve cash flow management.
Small, strategic financial shifts can lead to massive long-term gains in your business.
Episode Resources:
Profit First by Susanne Mariga
The Power of Habit by Charles Duhigg
Unreasonable Hospitality by Will Guidara
vitalstrategies.com/tax
Learn more about Susanne:
Official Website
The Profit Talk: Entrepreneurship With A Profit First Spin
Resources:
Visit www.vitalstrategies.com to download FREE resources
Listen to the podcast on your favorite app: https://link.chtbl.com/vitalstrategies
Follow on Instagram at https://www.instagram.com/vital.strategies
Follow on Facebook at https://www.facebook.com/VitalStrategiesPodcast
Follow on LinkedIn at https://www.linkedin.com/in/patricklonergan/
Credits:
Sponsored by Vital Wealth
Music by Cephas
Audio, video, and show notes produced by Two Tone Creative
Research and copywriting by Victoria O'Brien
Tuesday Mar 04, 2025
Tuesday Mar 04, 2025
What if You Could Become Your Own Bank and Build Tax-Free Wealth?
In this episode of the Vital Wealth Strategies Podcast, host Patrick Lonergan sits down with Mark Willis, #1 best-selling author, owner of Lake Growth Financial Services, and co-host of the Not Your Average Financial Podcast. Together, they uncover a powerful strategy that’s helping entrepreneurs take control of their finances and create long-term financial stability. Mark shares how properly designed whole life insurance can be far more than a death benefit—it can serve as a personal bank, providing liquidity, predictable growth, and tax-free income for business owners.
Whether you're looking to protect your business, retain key employees, or reduce your dependence on banks, this conversation is packed with actionable insights. Patrick and Mark explore how this strategy can give entrepreneurs the freedom to take more calculated risks, while also creating a financial safety net in times of uncertainty. If you’ve ever felt like you’re at the mercy of market volatility or restricted by traditional lending, this episode is a must-listen.
Key Takeaways:
Why properly designed whole life insurance is an underutilized financial tool for entrepreneurs.
How to build your own personal banking system and reduce dependency on external financing.
The tax advantages of using whole life insurance for business liquidity and retirement income.
Practical ways to protect your business and attract or retain key employees with life insurance strategies.
Learn More About Mark:
Official Website
Not Your Average Financial Podcast
LinkedIn
Episode Resources:
vitalstrategies.com/tax
Resources:
Visit www.vitalstrategies.com to download FREE resources
Listen to the podcast on your favorite app: https://link.chtbl.com/vitalstrategies
Follow on Instagram at https://www.instagram.com/vital.strategies
Follow on Facebook at https://www.facebook.com/VitalStrategiesPodcast
Follow on LinkedIn at https://www.linkedin.com/in/patricklonergan/
Credits:
Sponsored by Vital Wealth
Music by Cephas
Audio, video, and show notes produced by Two Tone Creative
Research and copywriting by Victoria O'Brien
Tuesday Feb 25, 2025
Tuesday Feb 25, 2025
What separates a thriving business from one that struggles to stay afloat? More often than not, the answer lies in financial management—both personal and professional. In this episode of the Vital Wealth Strategies Podcast, host Patrick Lonergan sits down with Jason Schappert, a seasoned entrepreneur who successfully scaled and exited his business with an eight-figure deal. Now, he’s applying his financial expertise to his latest venture, Moola, a cutting-edge financial management tool designed to help business owners gain control of their money, scale smarter, and protect their wealth. Jason shares the hard lessons he learned along the way, including the dangers of putting all your eggs in one basket, how messy personal finances can bleed into business finances, and the strategies that helped him grow and exit successfully.
This episode is packed with actionable insights on how to scale your business, leverage smart financial tools, and avoid common financial pitfalls that can cost you big in the long run. Jason breaks down the importance of money buckets, real-time data tracking, and AI-driven financial decisions, and why having a financial safety net is more crucial than ever in today’s digital landscape. Whether you’re aiming for a profitable exit or looking for smarter ways to manage and grow your business, this conversation is one you won’t want to miss.
Key Takeaways:
The staggering difference between businesses that succeed and those that fail
Why personal financial chaos leads to business financial struggles
The power of money buckets for better financial management
How outsourcing and automation can help entrepreneurs focus on growth
The risks of relying on third-party platforms and why diversification is key
How Moola is revolutionizing real-time financial tracking and AI-driven decision-making
The importance of knowing your numbers before trying to scale or exit a business
Learn more about Jason:
Moo.la website
Instagram
YouTube
Episode Resources:
vitalstrategies.com/tax
Resources:
Visit www.vitalstrategies.com to download FREE resources
Listen to the podcast on your favorite app: https://link.chtbl.com/vitalstrategies
Follow on Instagram at https://www.instagram.com/vital.strategies
Follow on Facebook at https://www.facebook.com/VitalStrategiesPodcast
Follow on LinkedIn at https://www.linkedin.com/in/patricklonergan/
Credits:
Sponsored by Vital Wealth
Music by Cephas
Audio, video, and show notes produced by Two Tone Creative
Research and copywriting by Victoria O'Brien
Tuesday Feb 18, 2025
Tuesday Feb 18, 2025
What does it really take to build a business that not only thrives but runs without you? In this episode of the Vital Wealth Strategies Podcast, host Patrick Lonergan sits down with Pat Brennan, CEO and founder of Catalyze Growth Partners, to explore the keys to entrepreneurial success. Pat shares his inspiring journey—from getting fired to discovering he was meant to be an entrepreneur—and how he built a business that helps companies grow through a holistic approach to marketing, lead generation, and client acquisition.
Throughout the conversation, Pat reveals how to fail forward and adapt to an evolving market while staying true to your values. He explains why building trust, developing systems, and training the right team are essential for creating a business that works without you at the center. If you want to learn how to generate consistent leads, attract the right clients, and scale your business with purpose, this episode is packed with actionable insights you won’t want to miss.
Key Takeaways:
The power of "win or learn" thinking—how to embrace failure as part of the journey.
Why building trust and communicating your values is critical for attracting great clients.
How to create systems and processes that allow your business to run without you.
The importance of interviewing clients to guide your marketing strategy.
Practical strategies for adapting to market shifts and generating consistent leads.
Learn more about Pat:
LinkedIn
Website Waitlist
Episode Resources:
vitalstrategies.com/tax
They Ask, You Answer by Marcus Sheridan
Mainstreet Millionaire by Codie Sanchez
Resources:
Visit www.vitalstrategies.com to download FREE resources
Listen to the podcast on your favorite app: https://link.chtbl.com/vitalstrategies
Follow on Instagram at https://www.instagram.com/vital.strategies
Follow on Facebook at https://www.facebook.com/VitalStrategiesPodcast
Follow on LinkedIn at https://www.linkedin.com/in/patricklonergan/
Credits:
Sponsored by Vital Wealth
Music by Cephas
Audio, video, and show notes produced by Two Tone Creative
Research and copywriting by Victoria O'Brien
Tuesday Feb 11, 2025
Tuesday Feb 11, 2025
What if scaling a business wasn’t about working harder but about leading smarter? In this episode of Vital Wealth Strategies, host Patrick Lonergan sits down with leadership expert and author Christian Muntean, who has helped businesses scale up over $500 million. Christian shares his powerful leadership framework, built from his experience in international disaster relief and personal fitness training, to help entrepreneurs develop healthy habits, intentional leadership, and a mindset for sustainable success.
Together, Patrick and Christian explore the biggest challenges leaders face, including self-doubt, delegation, and the hidden ceilings entrepreneurs place on themselves. They discuss how great leadership is about modeling the right behaviors, prioritizing what truly matters, and enabling teams to thrive. Listeners will gain actionable insights on how to work less, lead better, and build a business that scales efficiently—all while maintaining balance and avoiding burnout.
Key Takeaways:
Scaling a business isn’t about working more—it’s about leading more effectively.
Healthy habits and intentional leadership create long-term success.
Your values, attitudes, and beliefs shape your company culture.
Delegation and trust allow leaders to step back and focus on growth.
The right conversations with your team unlock new opportunities.
Proper rest, patience, and incremental gains are crucial for sustainable leadership.
Find out more about Christian:
Train to Lead by Christian Muntean
Free Assessment
LinkedIn
Resources:
Visit www.vitalstrategies.com to download FREE resources
Listen to the podcast on your favorite app: https://link.chtbl.com/vitalstrategies
Follow on Instagram at https://www.instagram.com/vital.strategies
Follow on Facebook at https://www.facebook.com/VitalStrategiesPodcast
Follow on LinkedIn at https://www.linkedin.com/in/patricklonergan/
Credits:
Sponsored by Vital Wealth
Music by Cephas
Audio, video, and show notes produced by Two Tone Creative
Research and copywriting by Victoria O'Brien
Tuesday Feb 04, 2025
Tuesday Feb 04, 2025
What if the key to better leadership, stronger teams, and smarter decision-making was hidden in understanding human behavior? In this episode of The Vital Wealth Strategies Podcast, host Patrick Lonergan sits down with Hugh Massie, Executive Chairman of DNA Behavior Solutions, to explore how behavioral profiling can transform the way entrepreneurs lead and scale their businesses.
Patrick and Hugh dive into the biggest challenges leaders face when managing people, the number one trait of successful entrepreneurs, and why reframing the way we think about money can have a massive impact on business growth. They also discuss practical strategies for building high-performing teams, improving communication, and creating a company culture where employees thrive. Whether you’re looking to strengthen your leadership, enhance your decision-making, or gain a competitive edge in business, this episode is packed with powerful insights you won’t want to miss.
Key Takeaways:
The #1 trait that sets successful entrepreneurs apart
How to understand and leverage behavioral insights in leadership
Why decision-making styles matter and how to navigate them
The impact of stress on communication and team dynamics
How to create a workplace culture that fosters growth and retention
Reframing your mindset around money for long-term success
Find out more about Hugh:
LinkedIn
DNA Behavior Official Website
Episode Resources:
Same as Ever: A Guide to What Never Changes by Morgan Housel
Soundtracks: The Surprising Solution to Overthinking by Jon Acuff
Resources:
Visit www.vitalstrategies.com to download FREE resources
Listen to the podcast on your favorite app: https://link.chtbl.com/vitalstrategies
Follow on Instagram at https://www.instagram.com/vital.strategies
Follow on Facebook at https://www.facebook.com/VitalStrategiesPodcast
Follow on LinkedIn at https://www.linkedin.com/in/patricklonergan/
Credits:
Sponsored by Vital Wealth
Music by Cephas
Audio, video, and show notes produced by Two Tone Creative
Research and copywriting by Victoria O'Brien
Tuesday Jan 28, 2025
Tuesday Jan 28, 2025
In today’s episode of the Vital Wealth Strategies Podcast, we’re unlocking the secrets to using speaking engagements as a powerful tool to grow your business, attract your ideal clients, and elevate your brand. Whether you’re just starting out or looking to take your speaking career to the next level, this episode is packed with insights you won’t want to miss. Host, Patrick Lonergan, is joined by Laurie-Ann Murabito, a master speaking coach, bestselling author, and podcast host. Together, they dive into how to build a speech that resonates and how speaking can pull in the right clients for your business.
Laurie-Ann takes us behind the scenes of her journey from speaker to speech coach, sharing tips on how to create memorable presentations, the neuroscience of speaking with confidence, and how to leverage podcasting and live speaking to expand your reach. If you’re looking for a proven approach to building relationships, mastering the art of speaking, and standing out in your industry, this episode has everything you need.
Key Takeaways:
How speaking engagements can attract the perfect clients for your business.
Steps to build an effective and memorable speech.
The neuroscience behind speaking with confidence.
How podcasting and stage speaking complement each other.
Tips for expanding your speaking opportunities.
Resources:
Visit www.vitalstrategies.com to download FREE resources
Listen to the podcast on your favorite app: https://link.chtbl.com/vitalstrategies
Follow on Instagram at https://www.instagram.com/vital.strategies
Follow on Facebook at https://www.facebook.com/VitalStrategiesPodcast
Follow on LinkedIn at https://www.linkedin.com/in/patricklonergan/
Credits:
Sponsored by Vital Wealth
Music by Cephas
Audio, video, and show notes produced by Two Tone Creative
Research and copywriting by Victoria O'Brien
Tuesday Jan 21, 2025
Tuesday Jan 21, 2025
Is your business prepared to weather unexpected risks, safeguard its reputation, and reduce its tax burden all at once?
Welcome to the Vital Wealth Strategies Podcast, where host Patrick Lonergan sits down with industry leaders to help entrepreneurs like you minimize taxes, master wealth, and optimize your life. In this episode, Patrick is joined by Van Carlson, the largest manager of 831(b) Captive Insurance plans in the country and a trusted expert in risk management and tax strategy. Together, they discuss how businesses can use risk financing to build reserves, protect their brand, and ensure long-term stability.
Van shares insights into how the 831(b) plan can be a game-changer for businesses, especially in uncertain times, by helping them retain and fund risk without draining operating capital. You’ll also hear real-world examples of how this strategy has helped companies survive—and thrive—through economic challenges, from the Great Recession to the COVID-19 pandemic. If you’re looking to safeguard your bottom line, optimize your wealth strategy, and ensure your business is protected against the unexpected, this episode is packed with actionable advice.
Key Takeaways:
How the 831(b) Captive Insurance plan works and why it’s an effective tool for businesses.
Strategies to manage risk and build financial reserves for long-term stability.
Why protecting your brand and reputation is critical for business success.
Real-world examples of businesses utilizing risk financing to thrive during economic uncertainty.
How to fund an 831(b) plan in challenging years without disrupting cash flow.
Common misconceptions about Captive Insurance plans—and why they’re often misunderstood.
Find Out More About Van:
SRA 831(b)
LinkedIn
Resources:
Visit www.vitalstrategies.com to download FREE resources
Listen to the podcast on your favorite app: https://link.chtbl.com/vitalstrategies
Follow on Instagram at https://www.instagram.com/vital.strategies
Follow on Facebook at https://www.facebook.com/VitalStrategiesPodcast
Follow on LinkedIn at https://www.linkedin.com/in/patricklonergan/
Credits:
Sponsored by Vital Wealth
Music by Cephas
Audio, video, and show notes produced by Two Tone Creative
Research and copywriting by Victoria O'Brien