Vital Strategies

076 | Financial Clarity = More Profit: How to Fix Your Books and Scale with Matt Tait of Decimal

Are your business financials holding you back without you even realizing it? Many entrepreneurs have a great product and strong marketing, but when it comes to bookkeeping, cash flow, and financial strategy, things get messy. In this episode of The Vital Wealth Strategies Podcast, host Patrick Lonergan sits down with Matt Tait, CEO of Decimal, to uncover the biggest financial mistakes business owners make and how to fix them. Matt shares his journey from law to entrepreneurship, the role of technology in financial management, and the critical shifts needed to scale a business profitably. 
This conversation is packed with insights on simplifying bookkeeping, leveraging automation, and ensuring financial clarity so entrepreneurs can focus on growing their wealth, reducing stress, and maximizing profitability. Whether you're struggling with financial organization, preparing for an eventual sale, or just looking to optimize your cash flow, this episode is full of actionable advice you won’t want to miss. 
Key Takeaways: 
Why most entrepreneurs avoid their financials and how to change that 
Having huge revenue is great but only when it leads to profit.  
How automation and the right tech stack can eliminate financial stress 
Why good financials are essential if you ever want to sell your business 
Practical steps to go from financial mess to financial clarity 
Learn more about Matt: 
Decimal Website 
Matt Tait LinkedIn 
Episode Resources: 
Unreasonable Hospitality by Will Guidara 
7 Habits of Highly Effective People by Stephen Covey 
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

075 | The Untold Power of Private Placement Life Insurance: Amazing Tool to Build Wealth Tax Free and Protect Your Legacy with Michael Malloy

What if there was a legal way to eliminate taxes on millions of dollars in investment gains—permanently? In this episode of the Vital Wealth Strategies Podcast, host Patrick Lonergan sits down with Michael Malloy, a global authority on Private Placement Life Insurance (PPLI). With over 30 years of experience helping wealthy families protect and grow their assets, Michael shares how this little-known strategy can transform the financial future of entrepreneurs, real estate investors, and crypto holders. 
Patrick and Michael dive into the structure and benefits of PPLI, how it fits into a larger wealth-building strategy, and why it’s one of the most powerful yet underutilized tools available to high-net-worth entrepreneurs. Listeners will walk away with a clearer understanding of how to reduce tax exposure, protect their assets from lawsuits or divorce, and create legacy wealth—without giving up control of their investments. 
Key Takeaways: 
What Private Placement Life Insurance (PPLI) is and how it works 
Why PPLI is a powerful tool for entrepreneurs with $20M+ net worth or major liquidity events 
How PPLI can shelter crypto, real estate, and even business interests from taxation 
The role of investor control and why it's critical to get the structure right 
Real-life case studies that show both the potential of PPLI 
The importance of assembling the right team, including legal and tax experts, to execute this strategy 
How PPLI fits into a larger strategy to minimize taxes, protect wealth, and optimize legacy planning 
Learn More About Michael:
Official Website
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

074 | The Secret to Leadership That Drives Growth & Retains Top Talent with Haley Grayless

What makes a business truly successful? It’s not just about having a great product or strong marketing—it’s about building a team that is engaged, motivated, and aligned with your vision. In this episode of The Vital Wealth Strategies Podcast, host Patrick Lonergan sits down with Haley Grayless, CEO and Founder of Vaxa Collective, to discuss the critical role of leadership and workplace culture in driving business success. Haley shares her expertise on how to create a thriving, high-performing team by focusing on emotional intelligence, psychological safety, and performance accountability. 
Whether you're struggling with disengaged employees, high turnover, or unclear communication, this episode is packed with actionable insights to help you build a culture that attracts and retains A-players. Haley outlines her five pillars of successful leadership, explains why psychological safety is the #1 predictor of high-performing teams, and provides practical strategies that entrepreneurs can implement today. If you want to lead with purpose, develop a winning team, and take your business to the next level, this is a conversation you won’t want to miss! 
Key Takeaways: 
The biggest culture mistakes that kill team performance and how to avoid them. 
The five pillars of successful leadership that every entrepreneur needs to master. 
Why psychological safety is crucial for innovation and long-term success. 
How to create clear expectations and accountability without micromanaging. 
Strategies to attract and retain top talent by building a purpose-driven workplace. 
Learn More About Hayley: 
Official Website: Vaxa Collective 
Email: haley@vaxacollective.com 
Instagram: @haleytheleadershipcoach 
Episode Resources:  
Dare to Lead by Brené Brown  
Extreme Ownership by Jocko Willink 
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

073 | Stop Going It Alone: How Advisory Boards Help Founders Win Bigger with Evan Kraut

What if the key to unlocking your next level of business growth isn’t another tool or tactic—but a room full of trusted advisors? 
In this episode of the Vital Wealth Strategies Podcast, host Patrick Lonergan sits down with Evan Kraut, co-founder and managing partner of Board Stream, a company that builds and manages advisory boards as a service. With a rich background in startup growth, private equity, and executive leadership, Evan shares how the right advisory board can help entrepreneurs gain clarity, avoid costly mistakes, and scale more effectively. Whether you’re running a high-growth business or just starting to build out your executive team, this episode offers powerful insights into how to structure strategic, customer, and project advisory boards—and why every entrepreneur should be thinking about this sooner rather than later. 
If you’ve ever wondered when it’s time to bring in outside perspective, how to attract the right people to your board, or how to turn feedback into real results—this conversation delivers. Patrick and Evan walk through real-world examples, common pitfalls, and the steps to getting started, giving you a framework that can transform the way you lead and grow your companies. 
Key Takeaways: 
Why advisory boards often outperform masterminds and peer groups 
How to know when your business is ready for a formal advisory board 
The difference between strategic, customer, and project advisory boards 
What to include in an effective advisory board charter 
How to keep advisors engaged through structure, communication, and follow-up 
Why diversity of thought is critical to getting better outcomes 
How Board Stream helps entrepreneurs build advisory boards that work 
Learn More About Evan: 
Official Website 
LinkedIn 
Episode Resources: 
Traction by Gino Wickman  
EOS tools 
BoardStream.ai Resources 
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

072 | Turn Your Expertise into a Revenue-Generating Book – Paul McManus Breaks It Down

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

071 | If You’re Not Selling, You’re Not Scaling—Dave Hanley’s Strategies for Growth

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

070 | This Simple Cash Flow Strategy Can Transform Your Business – Susanne Mariga Breaks It Down

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

069 | The Hidden Power of Whole Life Insurance for Business Owners with Mark Willis

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

068 | From Startup to 8-Figure Exit: The Wealth Strategies That Work and Pitfalls to Avoid with Jason Schappert

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 

067 | Win or Learn: The Entrepreneur Mindset You Need to Succeed with Pat Brennan

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