Breakfast Leadership Show

From Bankruptcy to Franchise Success: Max Emma'sJourney with BooXkeeping - A Masterclass in Navigating Financial Oversight and Seizing Market Opportunities

https://www.franchisewithmax.com/
https://www.linkedin.com/in/maxemma/The story of BooXkeeping starts with an 18-year-old Max emigrating from the former Soviet Union to the U.S., where he initially worked in corporate accounting and finance but found it deeply unfulfilling. He celebrated his "Freedom Day" from corporate America on July 3rd, 2002, when he shifted to a family-run landscape maintenance business. Despite initially growing the business to an impressive $4 million, a lack of financial oversight and the 2008 recession led to bankruptcy.“It was the greatest lesson in accounting, finance, and business ownership I could have ever received,” said Max. “Although it felt like the end of the world at the time, I knew I had to keep going and learn from my mistakes.”Max persevered, restarting with a smaller landscape maintenance business, this time outsourcing his bookkeeping to another company. He immediately noticed a significant discrepancy in how the bookkeeping industry operated. A lightbulb went off in his head.“For the same scope of work, I was seeing quotes from as low as $200 to as high as $2,000 — anyone in finance knows that means there is a big opportunity to dominate a fragmented market,” said Max. “So, we started the BooXkeeping business in our garage part-time while we ran our landscaping company to pay the bills.”Gradually, BooXkeeping became Emmas’ full-time job, and they sold their landscaping company. Although the couple divorced a few years later, they continued working together to grow the brand, driven by their passion for redefining an outdated industry and putting the client first. Today, BooXkeeping is the preferred bookkeeping vendor for over 95 franchise brands in the U.S., including companies like FastSigns, Gameday Men's Health, Sport Clips, and more.“Hanging out with franchisors gave me the idea that I could become one of them myself,” said Max. “So, I decided to franchise the BooXkeeping concept.”
Entrepreneurial Journeys and Immigrant Contributions
Michael and Max discussed their entrepreneurial journeys. Max, who immigrated from the Soviet Union, shared his experience of starting from scratch after leaving a well-paying job at Qualcomm. He initially took a significant pay cut to join a small family business, which he grew from 3 to 96 employees. Michael acknowledged the entrepreneurial spirit that drives individuals like Max to take risks and pursue new opportunities. Max also referenced the quote from the musical Hamilton, "Immigrants. We get the job done," emphasizing the role of immigrants in driving growth and innovation.
Bookkeeping Services for Small Businesses
Michael and Max discussed the benefits of their bookkeeping services for small businesses. Max explained how the idea for their business, Bookkeeping with an X, came about after they received vastly different quotes for the exact scope of work. They decided to bring technology efficiency to the market, starting in 2011. Their services are still human resource-focused but aim to automate 60-70% of the job processes. This approach allows them to keep a low price point, providing significant savings to small businesses.
Maintaining Clean Financial Records for Business
Michael discussed the importance of maintaining clean financial records for businesses. He emphasized that this is crucial not only for tax compliance and reporting but also for the ease of transitioning the company to someone else, whether through sale, winding down, or passing on to another party. He highlighted the benefits of having organized records for business valuation and potential exit scenarios. Michael also shared his personal experience of losing his mother earlier in the year, using it as an example of the importance of planning.
Financial Management in Business Operations
Michael and Max discussed the importance of financial management in business operations. Michael, a former public accountant, emphasized the need to analyze trends and understand a business's ebbs and flows, especially in the context of the pandemic and supply chain challenges. Max agreed, noting that many companies struggle with financial management, which can hinder growth and make it difficult to sell the business. They both highlighted the importance of knowing one's finances to make informed decisions about investments and growth.
Accounting Systems and Bookkeeping Experiences
Michael and Max discussed their experiences with accounting systems and bookkeeping. Michael shared his involvement in the early versions of QuickBooks and emphasized the importance of clean accounting for a strong business. On the other hand, Max talked about his journey in bookkeeping, starting with franchises and eventually becoming the preferred bookkeeping provider for about 100 franchise brands in the US. He also mentioned his recent venture into franchising bookkeeping services, with plans to expand to around 40 or 50 franchises by the end of the following year. Both agreed on the importance of delegation and living life beyond work.
Growing a Business and Franchise Opportunities
Max discussed his work in growing a business and creating a franchise, which he learned about through his experiences. He also introduced Main Entrance, a franchise brokerage he founded to help people not a good fit for bookkeeping franchises find other opportunities. Max emphasized that his services are free to candidates, and he gets paid only if they buy a franchise. He highlighted the interconnectivity of his businesses, with franchisees becoming clients for his bookkeeping services and vice versa. Michael praised Max's work, noting its potential for growth and impact, and encouraged others not to be deterred by economic situations. 

Founder Friday: How Your Workspace Affects Your Creativity and Productivity

In this episode, we explore how workspace design directly impacts productivity, creativity, and focus. We explore the science behind effective layouts, highlighting how open spaces, private desks, and flexible seating can significantly improve performance. Listeners will learn practical tips for arranging their workspace to promote better flow and mental clarity, from facing natural light to creating designated zones for different tasks. We discuss how thoughtful workspace adjustments, even small ones, can boost energy levels, support collaboration, and enhance your day-to-day experience.
We also cover essential elements like lighting, color, and noise control, each playing a crucial role in shaping how you feel and function. Discover how natural light, warm and cool tones, and strategic color choices like blue for focus and yellow for creativity can positively influence your work output. Plus, we discuss managing sound levels to fit your unique needs, whether with calming nature sounds, white noise, or complete silence. Tune in to get actionable insights on transforming your workspace into an environment that fuels your best ideas and productivity.
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Wednesday Wisdom: Personal Brand and Business Growth: Tips for Entrepreneurs

In this episode, we dive into the power of personal branding for entrepreneurs and why it's crucial for business growth. Discover how building an authentic, consistent brand can set you apart from the competition and attract the right clients, investors, and media attention. We discuss strategies for crafting a standout personal brand, from telling your unique story to staying consistent across platforms like LinkedIn and Instagram. Learn how your brand can increase credibility, trust, and customer loyalty, helping you scale your business and create lasting relationships.
We also share actionable tips for leveraging your brand to unlock new opportunities. Whether you're networking strategically, creating valuable content, or engaging directly with your audience, building a personal brand is a powerful tool for business success. Tune in to learn how to develop a brand that resonates, drives growth, and positions you as an industry expert. Ready to take your brand to the next level? This episode is packed with insights that will help you elevate your business and achieve long-term success.
Subscribe to our newsletter and explore insightful conversations on workplace culture, burnout, and leadership at the Breakfast Leadership Network, ranked in the top 20 globally. Join us to thrive in the modern work environment.
Please stay connected with us. Check out the Breakfast Leadership Show Podcast for more insights and valuable content. Join our podcast and get inspired by top industry leaders’ leadership lessons and success stories.

The Art of Growth: A Conversation with Mark A. Mears

**Unveiling the Secrets of Innovation and Stakeholder Value Creation** This captivating podcast delves into the groundbreaking insights of Mark A. Mears, renowned author of "The Purposeful Growth. Join us as Mark unravels the intricate interplay between innovation, stakeholder value, and the transformative power of purpose-driven leadership. **Unlocking Innovation: The Catalyst for Growth and Success** Mark will guide us through his innovative framework for unlocking innovation potential. From fostering a culture of creativity to embracing technological advancements, he'll reveal the strategies that empower organizations to stay ahead of the curve. Learn to identify and nurture game-changing ideas, driving sustained growth and competitive advantage. **The Imperative of Stakeholder Value: Aligning Interests for Success** Mark emphasizes the critical importance of stakeholder value in today's business landscape. He'll delve into the art of balancing the needs of customers, employees, shareholders, and the community. Discover how aligning stakeholder interests creates a virtuous cycle, enhancing reputation, increased loyalty, and greater profitability. **Purpose-Driven Leadership: The Foundation for Sustainable Growth** At the heart of Mark's philosophy lies the concept of purpose-driven leadership. He'll explain how purpose goes beyond profit, serving as a compass that inspires innovation, engages stakeholders, and drives positive societal impact. Learn the secrets of purpose-driven organizations, discovering how they create a thriving and sustainable future. **Case Studies and Real-World Examples** Mark brings his ideas to life throughout the podcast through compelling case studies and real-world examples. He'll showcase organizations that successfully implement his principles, from technology giants to social enterprises, achieving remarkable innovation and stakeholder value. **Insights for Leaders, Innovators, and Change Agents** This podcast is an essential resource for leaders, innovators, and change agents who seek to unlock innovation, create stakeholder value, and drive purposeful growth. Mark's wisdom and practical guidance will empower you to: * Foster a culture of innovation and creativity * Balance stakeholder interests effectively * Embrace purpose as a driver of success * Lead your organization toward a sustainable and prosperous future Don't miss this opportunity to gain invaluable insights from the leading minds in innovation and stakeholder value creation. Join us for "Unlocking Innovation and Stakeholder Value with Mark A. Mears" and embark on a transformative journey of growth and success.
 
Mark A. Mears is a #1 Best-Selling author, keynote speaker, consultant, and visionary business leader. He has a significant track record of building stakeholder value and driving innovation and profitable growth among world-class, high-profile brands such as PepsiCo/Pizza Hut, McDonald’s, Frito-Lay, JCPenney, NBCUniversal, and The Cheesecake Factory.Today, Mark serves as Founder and Chief Growth Officer for LEAF Growth Ventures, LLC. This consulting firm inspires individuals, teams, and organizations to find purpose in fulfilling their true growth potential while making a positive, lasting difference.Mark has just released his new book, The Purposeful Growth Revolution: 4 Ways to Grow from Leader to Legacy Builder.Mark is also a member of the Senior Leader Network within Conscious Capitalism, Inc., a global organization whose mission he shares: Elevating Humanity Through Business.LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/markamears/Website: https://www.MarkAMears.com
Leadership and Positive Work Environment
Michael and Mark discussed their shared passion for leadership and the importance of creating a positive work environment. Mark shared his experiences in the restaurant, retail, hospitality, and entertainment industries and his mission to lead the "Purposeful Growth Revolution" to help managers become leaders who can grow into living legacy builders. They also discussed the impact of leaders on their teams and the need for leaders to understand themselves before they can effectively lead others. Mark emphasized the importance of words and how they can shape perceptions, suggesting that using terms like "works with" instead of "works for" can foster a sense of teamwork. The conversation ended with an agreement to continue the discussion in a future meeting.
Involving Everyone in the Planning Process
Mark and Michael discussed the importance of involving everyone in the planning process, using the example of a successful marketing and menu plan for a restaurant chain. They highlighted the need for collaboration and breaking down silos to achieve success. Mark shared a specific instance where a chef's idea led to a successful marketing campaign around the theme of "the year of originality" brought to you by Solidworks. They also discussed the importance of decreasing costs and extending menu options without adding extra items. Michael emphasized the need for time in planning and the importance of breaking down silos to work together effectively.
Leaf Model for Growth and Collaboration
Mark shared his experience of being let go from a restaurant concept and how it led him to write his book, "Leaf: A Model for Growth and Rebirth." He explained how the leaf symbol represents growth, rebirth, and a model for success. He also discussed the importance of breaking down silos and collaborating with team members. Michael then asked Mark about his book, and Mark elaborated on the four circles of the leaf model: leadership, engagement, accountability, and fulfillment. He also introduced a new model, "Love Leadership," which extends the leaf model.
Empathy, Communication, and Employee Growth
Mark discussed the importance of empathy and human connection in the workplace, using the acronym LOVE to represent the key elements of effective communication and leadership. He emphasized the need to listen deeply, observe and coach, value and invest in employees, and empower them to grow and contribute to the team. Mark also highlighted the importance of providing opportunities for learning and growth and encouraged employees to share their knowledge and ideas to improve the workplace. He used the example of investing in an employee's interest in AI to illustrate how this approach can lead to better results and a more fulfilling work environment.
Empowering Employees for Growth and Belonging
Mark shares a personal story about learning to ride a bike without training wheels, highlighting the sense of freedom, accomplishment, and growth he experienced. He parallels that experience and empowers employees to feel valued, coached, and invested in their work. Michael affirms the importance of creating a psychologically safe environment where employees feel a sense of belonging, are nurtured, and are given opportunities. He shares an example of reducing turnover by implementing such practices in an organization he led.
Sentimental Value of Childhood Bikes
Michael shared a personal story about his childhood bikes, highlighting the sentimental value of a green bike given to him by his great-grandfather. He also recounted how his father, instead of retrieving the motorcycle after a neighbor's child took it, chose to let the child keep it, demonstrating grace and love. Michael expressed his gratitude for his father's decision, emphasizing the importance of empathy and understanding in difficult situations.
Fostering a Positive Work Environment and Belonging
Michael and Mark discussed the importance of creating a positive work environment that fosters a sense of community and belonging. They emphasized the need for organizations to prioritize the well-being of their employees, as this leads to increased productivity and loyalty. Michael highlighted the importance of leading by example and caring for people, while Mark stressed the significance of feeling included and valued in the workplace. They also touched on total diversity, encompassing outer and inner diversity, and the need for psychological safety to encourage vulnerability and creativity. The conversation concluded with Mark's emphasis on the importance of positively impacting others' lives and creating a virtuous cycle of reciprocity.
Creating a Positive Work Environment
Michael and Mark discussed the importance of creating a positive work environment and its impact on employees. Mark shared his book, "Purposeful Growth Revolution," and offered a free self-assessment on his website. Michael encouraged everyone to take the assessment and subscribe to Mark's newsletter. They both expressed their desire to continue the conversation and support each other in their respective roles

Founder Friday: What You Need For Your Business To Thrive

When starting a new business, you must get several essential elements right from the outset to ensure your company thrives. First and foremost, you need a robust and user-friendly website that serves as the public face of your business when your physical doors are closed. This means investing in a website that is stable, easy to navigate and puts customers no more than three clicks away from the information or products they seek. If you've never designed a website before, consider working with a web design agency or using a platform like WordPress to create a professional-looking, high-performing online presence.
 
Alongside a robust digital foundation, building a great team of employees is crucial for your business's success. Employees are the backbone of your company, responsible for ensuring smooth operations and fulfilling customer needs.
Take the time to carefully vet and hire the right people, looking for individuals who can work well independently and as part of a team. Additionally, ensure you have enough funding to get your business off the ground through your capital or a business loan, and invest in reliable technology to keep up with your operational demands.
Finally, don't overlook the importance of effective marketing to help potential customers discover your offerings. By focusing on these five key areas - website, employees, funding, technology, and marketing - you can set your startup up for long-term success and avoid the pitfalls that lead to early business failures.
Subscribe to our newsletter and explore insightful conversations on workplace culture, burnout, and leadership at the Breakfast Leadership Network, ranked in the top 20 globally. Join us to thrive in the modern work environment.
Please stay connected with us. Check out the Breakfast Leadership Show Podcast for more insights and valuable content. Join our podcast and get inspired by top industry leaders’ leadership lessons and success stories.

Wednesday Minute: How To Improve Morale At Work

In this episode, we dive into why employees are the lifeblood of any successful business and how their morale directly impacts performance, revenue, and growth. Employees who feel valued bring their best to customer service, marketing, and other critical roles. But how can you create a workplace where employees thrive? We discuss practical strategies for boosting morale, including implementing reward programs, enhancing the work environment, and creating supportive policies like workplace harassment training. These actions can help foster a positive atmosphere that keeps your team motivated and dedicated.
Join us as we explore practical ways to boost employee morale, from offering tailored rewards to creating a comfortable and inspiring office space. Discover why a work-life balance prevents burnout and promotes long-term productivity. From implementing clean, bright workspaces to providing mental health support, these small changes can make a big difference. Whether you’re a business owner or manager, these tips will help you build a happier, more resilient team that drives your company forward. Tune in for more insights on creating a thriving workplace!
Subscribe to our newsletter and explore insightful conversations on workplace culture, burnout, and leadership at the Breakfast Leadership Network, ranked in the top 20 globally. Join us to thrive in the modern work environment.
Please stay connected with us. Check out the Breakfast Leadership Show Podcast for more insights and valuable content. Join our podcast and get inspired by top industry leaders’ leadership lessons and success stories.

How To Unlock Financial Freedom Through Note Investing and Holistic Wellness with Hànanda Whittingham

Driven by a desire to empower women financially, Hànanda is passionate about helping women build their Freedom Fund (aka F*ck You Fund, when she’s feeling sassy!) through note investing. She believes in the transformative power of passive income and is dedicated to equipping women with the tools to walk away from people, places, and things that no longer serve them.
As a seasoned mortgage note investor passionate about yoga and holistic wellness, she has guided individuals toward profound transformations for over two decades.In addition to her pursuits in finance and wellness, Hànanda is at the forefront of cutting-edge medical research. With a focus on longevity and rejuvenation, she explores the potential of young plasma therapy to combat aging and age-related diseases.
Before her current pursuits, Hànanda dedicated twenty years of her life as a full-time volunteer running an international meditation and retreat center, fostering environments of peace, introspection, and spiritual growth.By leaning into her rich life experiences, Hànanda inspires women to Invest in a Life they Love. She aims to lead by example. Through her finance, wellness, and philanthropy endeavors, she seeks to create a world where women pursue their dreams, embrace their passions, and live on their own terms.https://www.successfulnotesolutions.com/https://www.youtube.com/@successfulnotesolutions9411https://www.linkedin.com/in/h%C3%A0nandawhittingham/https://www.facebook.com/HanandaWhittinghamhttps://www.instagram.com/hanandamoves/
 
Investing in Personal and Professional Growth
Hànanda and Michael discuss investing in a fulfilling life through practices like meditation, exercise, and working with skilled professionals. Hànanda shares that focusing on one area creates momentum that positively impacts other areas. Michael agrees, noting that progress can seem slow some days but significant over time. They emphasize the importance of seeking guidance to accelerate personal and professional growth.
Building Organizations and Sharing Experiences
Michael shared his journey of building his organization from scratch, emphasizing the importance of learning from failures and focusing on the journey rather than the destination. He also discussed his experience with his podcast, which he initially didn't want to do but has now lasted for eight years. He expressed his appreciation for the opportunity to learn from others and share his own experiences, believing that these conversations can inspire positive changes in people's lives.
Intertwined Health and Wealth Strategies
Michael and Hananda discussed the importance of health and wealth, emphasizing that they are intertwined. Hananda shared her approach of trusting her intuition and considering how she feels about a decision, while also backing it up with facts. They also discussed the importance of patience and consistency in achieving goals, with Michael highlighting the power of small daily improvements. Hananda suggested helping people find something to celebrate in their current situation, which can help them overcome self-doubt and move forward. They both agreed on the need for self-reflection and self-belief in achieving personal growth.
Positive Language and Discipline
Hànanda and Michael discuss the importance of using positive language and avoiding diminishing self-talk. Hànanda emphasizes celebrating small accomplishments, like attending a yoga class early in the morning. Michael suggests replacing phrases like "I'm just" with more affirmative statements. They highlight the role of discipline over motivation in consistently taking positive actions. Michael shares an example of extending his morning walks beyond his initial plan due to feeling proud of showing up.
Personal Control and Mindset in Work
Michael emphasized the importance of personal control and mindset in one's work situation. He shared his own experience of changing his outlook on his employer and career, which led to growth opportunities and better career prospects. He encouraged others to focus on what they can control and to change their mindset to improve their situation. Hananda agreed with Michael's points, relating them to the concept of intention and how it can change behavior and ultimately lead to better outcomes.
Consistency and Momentum in Success
Hànanda and Michael discussed the importance of consistency and momentum in achieving personal and professional goals. They shared their experiences and accomplishments over the past five years, emphasizing the dramatic impact of consistent effort. Michael expressed his admiration for the progress made by his colleagues and friends, and encouraged everyone to operate in their sweet spot. The conversation concluded with Michael inviting listeners to find out more about Hànanda's work on LinkedIn.

How Your Font Choice Can Impact Your Resume

In this episode, we delve into a recent study exploring how different font choices, including Times New Roman, Arial, and Helvetica, impact resume readability and hiring managers' perceptions. We discuss the importance of selecting the right font size, and the role of layout design in enhancing resume clarity and effectiveness.
Key Talking Points:- The significance of choosing professional fonts like Times New Roman, Arial, and Helvetica for resumes.- The impact of font size and formatting on resume readability and layout.- The advantages of serif vs. sans-serif fonts in digital and print media.- Tips on avoiding decorative fonts that may be perceived as unprofessional.
Read the full article here:  https://www.breakfastleadership.com/blog/top-resume-fonts-to-increase-your-job-application-success
YouTube:  https://youtu.be/PHYdTV8Y6R0
Subscribe to our newsletter and explore insightful conversations on workplace culture, burnout, and leadership at the Breakfast Leadership Network, ranked in the top 20 globally. Join us to thrive in the modern work environment.
Please stay connected with us. Check out the Breakfast Leadership Show Podcast for more insights and valuable content. Join our podcast and get inspired by top industry leaders’ leadership lessons and success stories.