Find out how small business owners (just like you) are living the dream by creating a strong financial plan. Meet Karena Burgess — Financial Planning Rockstar Anyone who knows Karena knows that she’s passionate about health and wellness. She’s built her business, Petra Bookkeeping Services, around helping small business owners in the health and wellness field. Using her methodical approach, business…
How to Make Your Money Love You Back
My story of learning to make my money work for me…one week at a time. I got back from vacation at 2 in the morning. Which, of course, meant a full extra day off to recover. And by “recover,” I mean catch up on emails, let people know that I was again available for work, and…
Get Some Sweet Summer Lovin’ (from Xero)
I confess that I’ve always had a thing for chaotic, disheveled, temperamental types. Not just in romantic partners, but in the way that I organize my business. Maybe it’s the sense of adventure that comes with never knowing where you’ll end up at the end of the day. Or maybe it’s the rebellious thrill of breaking the rules…
Has Your Business Turned Into a Jenga Tower?
Everyone who knows me knows what a fan I am about systems, software and teamwork. Efficiency is definitely my personal jam; I think my passion for efficiency is one of the best skills I bring to my team. But I’ve come to realize that when it comes to efficiency, nothing can replace a genuine sense of purpose. There just simply…
What to Do When the IRS Wants More Money From You
Our tax expert reveals the mysterious relationship between your money and the tax system …and what it means for you! Dear Marilyn, I do my own books every year and have never had a problem. (Actually, I usually get money back as earned income credit!) But this year I made a significantly better profit…which was…
The Accounting Software That Might Take Over the World
My story of learning to make my money work for me…one week at a time. When I was a kid, we had an electric model train that used to belong to my Grandpa. It was one of those kids’ toys that would never pass the child-safety standards of today. So many small pieces. So many loose wires….
“Can I Write It Off?” – Giveback Promos
Wondering whether your percentage-of-sales donations are tax-deductible? Our resident tax expert explains it all. As you probably know, one of the hottest methods of business promotion these days is the giveback promo. You know, the Tom’s Shoes/Warby Parker/Burt’s Bees model where every item you buy gives something to someone in need. It can be a…
Did Starting a Business Ruin My Chances of Buying a House?
Our tax expert reveals the mysterious relationship between your money and the tax system …and what it means for you! Dear Marilyn, I recently heard that for small businesses/sole proprietorships, writing off too much on your taxes can result in not being able to secure a bank loan. Is this true? …and if so, WHY?…
The Financial Rockstar Interview Series
Find out how small business owners (just like you) are living the dream by creating a strong financial plan. Meet Kerry Sheppard — Financial Planning Rockstar Kerry is a business strategist for online entrepreneurs. Her particular passion is helping women build an online business that fuels their life. Guided by her firm belief that you don’t have to be a…
Stop Letting Your Money Boss You Around
My story of learning to make my money work for me…one week at a time. You never get over those “first day of school” jitters, do you? I sat down for my first Profit Planning session with butterflies in my stomach. And it wasn’t just because I felt out of my depth on this whole financial planning thing….