The Liquid Lunch Project

After decades of experience on Wall Street, in finance and building teams of all sizes in multiple industries, Matthew Meehan and Luigi Rosabianca have a world-class understanding of what it takes to scale (and fund) a successful business. They are here to share a No-BS approach to what is involved in growing an empire. A note before you go any further: This show is only for those who want to grow. Every episode of this podcast is going to lay out actionable advice for business owners and entrepreneurs who want to grow their business. We have fun here - but the fact remains that everything you want is on the other side of something difficult. This show will help you get to that other side.

Can Blockchain Actually Help World Peace? 07/22/2026

Can Blockchain Actually Help World Peace? Can blockchain do more than make rich people argue on the internet? In this episode of The Liquid Lunch Project, Matt and Luigi sit down with Erai Beckmann, founder of Peace Through Trade, to talk about a much bigger use case for blockchain, AI, and cryptocurrency: global trade that creates trust, financial access, and maybe even less fighting between humans. Wild concept, apparently. Erai breaks down why trade has historically been one of the strongest tools for reducing conflict, how blockchain can open doors for people left out of traditional finance, and why Peace Through Trade is building a legal, sustainable Layer-1 Proof-of-Work blockchain with real-world use in mind. The conversation covers regulation, energy use, stablecoins, government trust, environmental impact, and the giant gap between hype coins and technology built to last. 🍸 What you'll hear in this episode: Why trade can reduce conflict better than speeches How blockchain could expand global finance Why crypto needs rules before it grows up The problem with pump-and-dump coin culture How Peace Through Trade uses less energy than Bitcoin Why sustainability also makes business sense What stablecoins can do for global commerce Why governments need trust before they back blockchain How small businesses could benefit from better financial tools Why financial access matters for peace, trade, and growth 💡 Notable Takeaway: “Our goal was to build something legally and also something that was good for the environment in the realm of blockchain and AI.” 👤 About our Guest: Erai Beckmann is the founder of Peace Through Trade, a blockchain and AI ecosystem focused on global trade, sustainability, and financial access. The project is building a Layer-1 Proof-of-Work blockchain, utility coin, wallet, stablecoins, and marketplace tools designed for real-world use. 🎧 Why Listen: Listen to this episode if you want a clearer take on where blockchain may be headed after the hype…and why trade, trust, regulation, and access may matter more than the next coin everyone is screaming about. 🔗 Links + Stuff Peace Through Trade: LinkedIn: Instagram: Facebook: X: 🔔 Enjoyed the episode? Subscribe so you don’t miss future conversations on business growth, funding, strategy, and the stuff most people don’t explain clearly. If this episode helped, a quick rating or review goes a long way. It helps the show reach more business owners who actually care about getting this right. 🎧 Listen or watch The Liquid Lunch Project Available on all major podcast and video platforms: • Official site: • Apple Podcasts: • Spotify: • Audible: • YouTube (full episodes + clips): 📬 Want more than just the podcast? Every Friday, we publish The Weekly. A fast, smart rundown of what actually matters in finance, tech, small business, and the economy…without the noise. Subscribe here: 👉 💼 Need funding or working capital? If today’s conversation raised questions about capital, cash flow, or financing options, you can schedule a conversation with our sponsor, Credit Banc. Credit Banc helps business owners make sense of their options and move forward with a clear plan, without pressure or guesswork. 👉 Book a free 15-minute call here: 📲 Connect with the hosts Follow along for behind-the-scenes clips, commentary, and things that don’t make it into the episode. • Matt Meehan: • Luigi Rosabianca: • The Liquid Lunch Project: 💬 One last thing Know a business owner who would appreciate this conversation? Send them the episode. That’s how this show grows. /episode/index/show/shieldafterhours/id/42161735

The Four Signs Your Business Is Stuck 07/21/2026

The Four Signs Your Business Is Stuck Your business can be busy and still be stuck. Revenue may be coming in. The team may be working hard. The founder may be carrying the whole thing on their back. But if margins are getting tighter, communication is breaking down, decisions are bottlenecked, and nobody really owns revenue… that business is not scaling. It’s surviving. In this episode of Built to Scale, Matt sits down with Autumn McFarland, a fractional COO who helps founder-led and growth-stage companies get unstuck, rebuild operational clarity, and create the foundation they need to grow without chaos running the show. Autumn breaks down the four triggers she looks for when a business is stuck: founder burnout, siloed departments, product and customer misalignment, and unclear revenue ownership. She also explains why many founders misdiagnose revenue problems as sales problems, when the real issue is often deeper inside the business. Matt and Autumn dig into what happens when a company outgrows the systems that got it started, why asking for help is not weakness, and how a fractional COO can come in without ego, identify the real problems, and help a business breathe again. In this episode, Matt and Autumn talk about: Founder burnout and why it shows up before the business breaks How siloed departments quietly kill momentum Why customer feedback matters more than internal assumptions Who should actually own revenue inside the company The difference between a sales problem and an operations problem Why slow leaks in the business can become expensive fast What a fractional COO actually does How the right operator can help founders get out of the weeds Why asking for help is a superpower How operational structure can make a business more scalable and transferable If your company is growing but still feels messy, reactive, or too dependent on the founder, this episode is worth your time. About Autumn McFarland Autumn McFarland is a fractional COO who works with founder-led and growth-stage companies to improve operations, strengthen teams, identify bottlenecks, and build the foundation needed for sustainable growth. She helps business owners get clear on what is actually holding the company back, align the team around real priorities, and create systems that support the next stage of growth. Connect with Autumn: Facebook: Instagram: LinkedIn: Substack: Need capital before growth turns into another bottleneck? If your business is growing but still feels stuck, the answer is not always “throw more money at it.” The right capital strategy should support the right growth plan. Matt and the Credit Banc team help business owners explore financing options for working capital, acquisitions, equipment, expansion, and growth opportunities before they are stuck scrambling at the last minute. Learn more here: About Built to Scale Built to Scale is a podcast segment from The Liquid Lunch Project, hosted by Matt, built for entrepreneurs, founders, and business owners who want to grow smarter, tighten operations, improve profitability, and build companies that can scale without chaos running the show. /episode/index/show/shieldafterhours/id/42156100

Equipment Financing Without Getting Screwed 07/15/2026

Equipment Financing Without Getting Screwed That “great deal” on equipment financing might be eating your lunch. In this episode of The Liquid Lunch Project, Matt and Luigi sit down with Rob Misheloff of Smarter Finance USA to talk about the stuff most lenders do not explain clearly: equipment financing, lease terms, credit scores, hidden fees, auction purchases, and why small business owners need to read the fine print before signing anything with a payment attached. Rob breaks down how equipment financing really works, why the market has gotten tighter, and what business owners should watch for when buying trucks, machinery, med spa equipment, construction gear, and other big-ticket tools of the trade. 🍸 What you'll hear in this episode: Why equipment financing is not the same as a regular loan. How “simple rate” can make a deal look cheaper than it really is. Why banks and lenders have gotten pickier after COVID. What credit score usually gets you decent financing. Why used equipment can still be financed. How auction financing works when you need cash fast. Red flags that scream, “Run before they keep your money.” Why first and last payments are common, but sketchy brokers are not. How leaseback deals work when you already own equipment. Why your equipment may be worth less to a lender than it is in your head. 👤 About our Guest: Rob Misheloff is the founder of Smarter Finance USA, a business financing company focused on equipment financing and helping business owners make smarter borrowing decisions. His team works with many lenders to help fund equipment deals for small businesses across industries. 🎧 Why Listen: Before you finance your next truck, machine, trailer, med spa device, or mystery gadget from an auction, listen to this one first. Then follow The Liquid Lunch Project, share it with a business owner who is about to sign a bad deal, and save yourself from learning the expensive way. 🔗 Links + Stuff Smarter Finance USA: LinkedIn: Facebook: YouTube: 🔔 Enjoyed the episode? Subscribe so you don’t miss future conversations on business growth, funding, strategy, and the stuff most people don’t explain clearly. If this episode helped, a quick rating or review goes a long way. It helps the show reach more business owners who actually care about getting this right. 🎧 Listen or watch The Liquid Lunch Project Available on all major podcast and video platforms: • Official site: • Apple Podcasts: • Spotify: • Audible: • YouTube (full episodes + clips): 📬 Want more than just the podcast? Every Friday, we publish The Weekly. A fast, smart rundown of what actually matters in finance, tech, small business, and the economy…without the noise. Subscribe here: 👉 💼 Need funding or working capital? If today’s conversation raised questions about capital, cash flow, or financing options, you can schedule a conversation with our sponsor, Credit Banc. Credit Banc helps business owners make sense of their options and move forward with a clear plan, without pressure or guesswork. 👉 Book a free 15-minute call here: 📲 Connect with the hosts Follow along for behind-the-scenes clips, commentary, and things that don’t make it into the episode. • Matt Meehan: • Luigi Rosabianca: • The Liquid Lunch Project: 💬 One last thing Know a business owner who would appreciate this conversation? Send them the episode. That’s how this show grows. /episode/index/show/shieldafterhours/id/42039260

Your financial advisor may be nice. That does not mean they are safe. 07/08/2026

Your financial advisor may be nice. That does not mean they are safe. In this episode of The Liquid Lunch Project, Matt and Luigi sit down with securities lawyer David P. Meyer to talk about the ugly side of investing: broker misconduct, crypto scams, hidden fees, fake online “experts,” and the very real ways smart people lose serious money. David also shares how he built a national securities litigation practice after taking on Prudential Securities in his twenties and winning a jaw-dropping $262 million jury verdict. Not bad for a guy who says he was basically just trying to avoid reading tax code forever. 🍸 What you'll hear in this episode: Why you should never invest with an unlicensed person. Ever. How to use brokercheck.org before handing over a dollar. Why “pig butchering” scams are stealing life savings. How fake crypto platforms make fake profits look real. Why deepfake AI is making financial fraud even scarier. What brokers are supposed to do when elderly clients move large sums. Why private real estate deals need legal review before you wire money. How hidden investment fees quietly eat into your portfolio. Why trust is often the scammer’s favorite tool. What to do before a bad investment turns into a financial crime scene. 💡 Notable Takeaway: “People will drive across town to save 10 cents on a can of soup. But they’ll hand their life savings over to anyone in a nice-looking suit and a firm handshake.” 👤 About our Guest: David P. Meyer is a securities lawyer and founding partner at Meyer Wilson Werning, where he helps investors recover losses from broker misconduct, investment fraud, and financial abuse. He is also the author of The Investor Protector and has represented investors across the country for more than 30 years. 🎧 Why Listen: Before you trust another “can’t-miss” investment, listen to this episode, check your advisor on brokercheck.org, and share it with someone whose retirement account deserves better than a slick smile and a fake promise. 🔗 Links + Resources Mentioned LinkedIn: YouTube: David’s Firm: Check a Broker: Book: The Investor Protector by David P. Meyer 🔔 Enjoyed the episode? Subscribe so you don’t miss future conversations on business growth, funding, strategy, and the stuff most people don’t explain clearly. If this episode helped, a quick rating or review goes a long way. It helps the show reach more business owners who actually care about getting this right. 🎧 Listen or watch The Liquid Lunch Project Available on all major podcast and video platforms: • Official site: • Apple Podcasts: • Spotify: • Audible: • YouTube (full episodes + clips): 📬 Want more than just the podcast? Every Friday, we publish The Weekly. A fast, smart rundown of what actually matters in finance, tech, small business, and the economy…without the noise. Subscribe here: 👉 💼 Need funding or working capital? If today’s conversation raised questions about capital, cash flow, or financing options, you can schedule a conversation with our sponsor, Credit Banc. Credit Banc helps business owners make sense of their options and move forward with a clear plan, without pressure or guesswork. 👉 Book a free 15-minute call here: 📲 Connect with the hosts Follow along for behind-the-scenes clips, commentary, and things that don’t make it into the episode. • Matt Meehan: • Luigi Rosabianca: • The Liquid Lunch Project: 💬 One last thing Know a business owner who would appreciate this conversation? Send them the episode. That’s how this show grows. /episode/index/show/shieldafterhours/id/41996610

Built to Scale: The 5 Financial Blind Spots That Stop Business Owners from Scaling 07/07/2026

Built to Scale: The 5 Financial Blind Spots That Stop Business Owners from Scaling Revenue looks great on a scoreboard. But if your cash flow is a mess, your margins are thin, and your financials only get attention during tax season… that growth might be hiding a much bigger problem. In this episode of Built to Scale, Matt sits down with Larry Rice, CPA, CEPA, and founder of RVG & Company, to talk about the financial blind spots that quietly keep business owners stuck, stressed, and scrambling. They dig into why revenue is not the same as financial health, how fast growth can actually make bad decisions worse, and why your CPA should not be treated like an emergency contact you only call once a year. Larry also breaks down the numbers every owner should be watching, when to upgrade your financial team, and why clean books matter long before you look for funding, buy another company, or think about selling. This one is for every business owner who has ever asked, “We’re growing… so why does it still feel so tight?” In this episode, Matt and Larry talk about: Revenue vs. profit vs. cash flow The financial numbers every business owner should know Why growth can expose cracks instead of fixing them How cash flow surprises sneak up on scaling companies When to bring in a bookkeeper, controller, or CFO Why tax planning should happen before tax season How messy financials can hurt funding, acquisitions, and exits The danger of taking business and tax advice from TikTok If you’re trying to scale without flying blind, this episode is worth the listen. About Larry Rice Larry Rice is a CPA, CEPA, and managing partner at RVG & Company, where he works with business owners on tax strategy, financial planning, and fractional CFO-style advisory support. Larry and his team help entrepreneurs get clearer on the numbers, avoid expensive blind spots, and make smarter decisions around growth, funding, acquisitions, and exits. To connect with Larry, reach out through RVG & Company or contact him directly at lrice@rvgco.com or 954-233-1767. Website: Facebook: LinkedIn: Instagram: Built to Scale is a podcast segment from The Liquid Lunch Project, hosted by Matt, built for entrepreneurs, founders, and business owners who want to grow smarter, tighten operations, improve profitability, and build companies that can scale without chaos running the show. Need capital before growth turns into a cash flow problem? If this episode made you realize your business needs a stronger funding strategy, connect with Credit Banc. Matt and the Credit Banc team help business owners explore financing options for working capital, acquisitions, equipment, expansion, and growth opportunities before they’re stuck scrambling at the last minute. Learn more about how Credit Banc helps entrepreneurs access the right capital for the right stage of growth. https://tinyurl.com/3dh9vy86 /episode/index/show/shieldafterhours/id/41955625

America was the ultimate startup 07/01/2026

America was the ultimate startup Big idea. No safety net. Shaky money. Brutal odds. A giant competitor. And founders who were not just risking cash…they were risking their necks. Literally In this special 250th anniversary episode of The Liquid Lunch Project, Matthew R. Meehan and Luigi Rosabianca look at America’s founding like a business launch. The Declaration of Independence becomes the mission statement. Washington becomes the operator under pressure. Franklin becomes the closer. And the whole thing becomes a crash course in risk, debt, ownership, cash flow, and building something that lasts. 🍸 What you'll hear in this episode: Why America’s founding looks a lot like a startup What entrepreneurs can learn from Washington, Franklin, and Hamilton Why cash flow keeps big ideas alive When debt helps…and when it eats the business Why “independence” means nothing if someone else controls your customers The danger of relying on one platform, bank, or payment processor Why smart founders build systems that outlast them What business owners should be building for the next 250 years This is not your high school history class. It’s American history through the eyes of business owners, founders, and anyone trying to build something bigger than next month’s bills. Listen now, follow The Liquid Lunch Project, and share this episode with a founder who needs to stop chasing short-term wins and start building like they mean it. 🔔 Enjoyed the episode? Subscribe so you don’t miss future conversations on business growth, funding, strategy, and the stuff most people don’t explain clearly. If this episode helped, a quick rating or review goes a long way. It helps the show reach more business owners who actually care about getting this right. 🎧 Listen or watch The Liquid Lunch Project Available on all major podcast and video platforms: • Official site: • Apple Podcasts: • Spotify: • Audible: • YouTube (full episodes + clips): 📬 Want more than just the podcast? Every Friday, we publish The Weekly. A fast, smart rundown of what actually matters in finance, tech, small business, and the economy…without the noise. Subscribe here: 👉 💼 Need funding or working capital? If today’s conversation raised questions about capital, cash flow, or financing options, you can schedule a conversation with our sponsor, Credit Banc. Credit Banc helps business owners make sense of their options and move forward with a clear plan, without pressure or guesswork. 👉 Book a free 15-minute call here: 📲 Connect with the hosts Follow along for behind-the-scenes clips, commentary, and things that don’t make it into the episode. • Matt Meehan: • Luigi Rosabianca: • The Liquid Lunch Project: 💬 One last thing Know a business owner who would appreciate this conversation? Send them the episode. That’s how this show grows. /episode/index/show/shieldafterhours/id/41916580

Your Health Plan Is Probably Screwing You 06/24/2026

Your Health Plan Is Probably Screwing You Your health plan might be robbing you blind. The fun part? You may be paying someone to let it happen. Healthcare benefits are one of the biggest expenses for small business owners, and most employers are stuck playing a game where the rules are hidden, the prices move, and somehow the bill always gets worse. In this episode of The Liquid Lunch Project, hosts Matthew R. Meehan and Luigi Rosabianca sit down with Donovan Ryckis, CEO of Ethos Benefits, to rip the lid off employer-sponsored healthcare. Donovan breaks down why insurance costs keep rising, how brokers can create conflicts of interest, why pharmacy benefit managers deserve a long side-eye, and how small businesses can start asking much better questions before renewal season punches them in the face. 🍸 What you'll hear in this episode: Why healthcare is usually expense number two or three for a business How broker compensation can work against employers Why “the insurance company pays me” is not the cute answer people think it is The four moving parts of every healthcare plan Why claims data matters more than carrier logos How pharmacy benefit managers quietly drive up drug costs Why direct primary care can cut ER visits and save employees time The real reason better benefits do not have to mean higher costs How small business owners can stop picking the “least bad” plan Why transparency is the first step to taking back control 💡 Notable Takeaway: “The only way any healthcare plan is going to lower costs for the employer is if it first lowers costs and works better for the employees.” - Donovan 👤 About our Guest: Donovan J. Ryckis is the CEO of Ethos Benefits, an award-winning employee benefits consulting firm helping employers lower healthcare costs through fiduciary-based consulting. He is also the producer of the documentary “It’s Not Personal, It’s Just Healthcare.” 🎧 Why Listen: Before your next healthcare renewal, listen to this episode and ask your broker one question: “Exactly how are you getting paid?” Then visit EthosBenefits.com to learn more, watch Donovan’s documentaries, and see what a smarter healthcare plan could look like for your business. 🔗 Links + Stuff Website: YouTube: LinkedIn: Watch the healthcare documentary: Watch the PBM documentary, Side Effects May Include: 🔔 Enjoyed the episode? Subscribe so you don’t miss future conversations on business growth, funding, strategy, and the stuff most people don’t explain clearly. If this episode helped, a quick rating or review goes a long way. It helps the show reach more business owners who actually care about getting this right. 🎧 Listen or watch The Liquid Lunch Project Available on all major podcast and video platforms: • Official site: • Apple Podcasts: • Spotify: • Audible: • YouTube (full episodes + clips): 📬 Want more than just the podcast? Every Friday, we publish The Weekly. A fast, smart rundown of what actually matters in finance, tech, small business, and the economy…without the noise. Subscribe here: 👉 💼 Need funding or working capital? If today’s conversation raised questions about capital, cash flow, or financing options, you can schedule a conversation with our sponsor, Credit Banc. Credit Banc helps business owners make sense of their options and move forward with a clear plan, without pressure or guesswork. 👉 Book a free 15-minute call here: 📲 Connect with the hosts Follow along for behind-the-scenes clips, commentary, and things that don’t make it into the episode. • Matt Meehan: • Luigi Rosabianca: • The Liquid Lunch Project: 💬 One last thing Know a business owner who would appreciate this conversation? Send them the episode. That’s how this show grows. /episode/index/show/shieldafterhours/id/41706555

Everybody wants private equity to buy them. Fewer founders are ready for what buyers actually find. 06/17/2026

Everybody wants private equity to buy them. Fewer founders are ready for what buyers actually find. Selling your company can look like “the big win.” The check clears. The headlines sound nice. Maybe someone even posts a tasteful LinkedIn announcement with way too many gratitude emojis. Then comes the hard part: contracts, systems, data, cyber risk, SOPs, people, processes, and the tiny little question that can wreck a deal: Can this business actually run without you? In this episode of The Liquid Lunch Project Podcast, Matt sits down with Mark Sims, Managing Principal of Technology Solutions at ConsultMSG, to talk about what business owners need to fix before private equity shows up with a checkbook. Yes, they talk about what happens after a private equity deal closes. New boss. New board. New systems. New rules. Weird vibes in the Monday meeting. But the bigger warning is this: if your business is held together by handshake deals, tribal knowledge, messy data, and “Judy knows where that file is,” you may not get the valuation, speed, or smooth transition you were hoping for. Mark breaks down how technology, clean data, documented processes, AI, cybersecurity, and basic operational discipline can protect company value before a sale…or quietly drain it when buyers start looking under the hood. 🍸 What you'll hear in this episode: Why founders need to think past the check What private equity buyers look for beyond revenue Why messy systems can lower company value How poor documentation slows down deals Why handshake deals do not impress buyers How clean data helps buyers understand how you make money Why AI is only useful if your data is not garbage How cyber insurance protects value Why SOPs matter more than founders want to admit What makes a business easier to buy, run, and scale 🎧 Listen if you’re thinking about… Selling your business someday Buying or integrating a company Cleaning up your operations before a deal Making better decisions with data Avoiding expensive tech mistakes Turning technology into a growth engine 💡 A line we loved… “A founder-owner needs to really think through what life’s gonna look like post-close.” 👤 About our Guest: Mark Sims is Managing Principal of Technology Solutions at ConsultMSG, where he helps companies use technology, data, and systems to improve operations, support M&A, and scale smarter. He has more than 25 years of experience across strategy, IT, ERP, private equity, manufacturing, retail, and business transformation. 🔗 Links + Stuff Website: LinkedIn: Before you chase the private equity check, make sure your business can survive the buyer’s questions. Listen now, then share this episode with a founder who thinks “we’ll clean that up later” is a strategy. 🔔 Enjoyed the episode? Subscribe so you don’t miss future conversations on business growth, funding, strategy, and the stuff most people don’t explain clearly. If this episode helped, a quick rating or review goes a long way. It helps the show reach more business owners who actually care about getting this right. 🎧 Listen or watch The Liquid Lunch Project Available on all major podcast and video platforms: • Official site: • Apple Podcasts: • Spotify: • Audible: • YouTube (full episodes + clips): 📬 Want more than just the podcast? Every Friday, we publish The Weekly. A fast, smart rundown of what actually matters in finance, tech, small business, and the economy…without the noise. Subscribe here: 👉 💼 Need funding or working capital? If today’s conversation raised questions about capital, cash flow, or financing options, you can schedule a conversation with our sponsor, Credit Banc. Credit Banc helps business owners make sense of their options and move forward with a clear plan, without pressure or guesswork. 👉 Book a free 15-minute call here: 📲 Connect with the hosts Follow along for behind-the-scenes clips, commentary, and things that don’t make it into the episode. • Matt Meehan: • Luigi Rosabianca: • The Liquid Lunch Project: 💬 One last thing Know a business owner who would appreciate this conversation? Send them the episode. That’s how this show grows. /episode/index/show/shieldafterhours/id/41673615

Your business is not supposed to survive on fumes and vibes. 06/10/2026

Your business is not supposed to survive on fumes and vibes. In this episode of The Liquid Lunch Project, Matthew R. Meehan and Luigi Rosabianca sit down with Ron Saharyan, co-founder and managing partner of Profit First Professionals, to talk about the money problem most business owners pretend is “normal.” Ron breaks down why profit is not greed, why cash flow needs a real system, and why your customers, team, family, and mission all need your business to make money. Not someday. Now. Oh, and by the way. Ron is giving away 10 FREE copies of his book. Keep scrolling to learn how you can get one. 🍸 What you'll hear in this episode: Why “sales minus expenses equals profit” is not a system. How Profit First helps owners pay themselves first. Why cash flow clarity beats guessing from old reports. The reason too many businesses are check-to-check. How tiny mistakes quietly murder your margins. Why taxes can be a badge of honor. Annoying, but still. How profit helps you pay debt, hire, give, grow, and sleep. Why business owners need money with a job before it arrives. How to start with one bank account and 1% of revenue. 💡 Notable Takeaway: “Profit is never bad. It's people that are bad. Profit helps you achieve.” 👤 About our Guest: Ron Saharyan is the co-founder and managing partner of Profit First Professionals, a global company that trains accountants, bookkeepers, and financial coaches in the Profit First method. He helps business owners build stronger cash flow, better habits, and companies that do not fall apart every time a bill shows up. Listen…then take action! Open one separate bank account this week and move 1% of your revenue into it. That is your first rep. Build the muscle. Want help bringing Profit First into your business? Visit profitfirstprofessionals.com to get matched with a certified Profit First Professional, or ask your accountant to check out the certification. Ron also offered 10 free copies of Profit First for Liquid Lunch Project listeners. to snag one before they’re gone! 🔗 Links + Stuff Website: Facebook: LinkedIn: My Money Bunnies: Fun Money Management for Kids () See the complete catalog of Profit First books 🔔 Enjoyed the episode? Subscribe so you don’t miss future conversations on business growth, funding, strategy, and the stuff most people don’t explain clearly. If this episode helped, a quick rating or review goes a long way. It helps the show reach more business owners who actually care about getting this right. 🎧 Listen or watch The Liquid Lunch Project Available on all major podcast and video platforms: • Official site: • Apple Podcasts: • Spotify: • Audible: • YouTube (full episodes + clips): 📬 Want more than just the podcast? Every Friday, we publish The Weekly. A fast, smart rundown of what actually matters in finance, tech, small business, and the economy…without the noise. Subscribe here: 👉 💼 Need funding or working capital? If today’s conversation raised questions about capital, cash flow, or financing options, you can schedule a conversation with our sponsor, Credit Banc. Credit Banc helps business owners make sense of their options and move forward with a clear plan, without pressure or guesswork. 👉 Book a free 15-minute call here: 📲 Connect with the hosts Follow along for behind-the-scenes clips, commentary, and things that don’t make it into the episode. • Matt Meehan: • Luigi Rosabianca: • The Liquid Lunch Project: 💬 One last thing Know a business owner who would appreciate this conversation? Send them the episode. That’s how this show grows. /episode/index/show/shieldafterhours/id/41553755

Would your customers wear your jersey… or ditch you for a cheaper coupon? 06/03/2026

Would your customers wear your jersey… or ditch you for a cheaper coupon? In this World Cup-themed episode of The Liquid Lunch Project, Matt and Luigi break down what every business owner can learn from sports fans: people don’t stay loyal because you asked nicely. They stay because they feel something. Customers buy. Fans come back, talk about you, forgive the occasional screw-up, and send people your way without needing a bribe. That kind of loyalty does not happen by accident. It comes from trust, clear service, strong brand identity, and a customer experience people actually remember. No guest this week. Just Matt, Luigi, World Cup fever, and a very serious question for your business: Would anyone root for you if they didn’t have to? 🍸 What you'll hear in this episode: Why customers chase price, but fans chase connection The real difference between a sale and a loyal customer How World Cup fandom applies to small business growth Why clear pricing and clear next steps build trust fast How brands like Liquid Death, Uber, Costco, Dropbox, and Starbucks create repeat buyers Why swag, referrals, and rituals can make your brand stick The “Jersey Test” every business owner should run Yellow cards and red cards for customer loyalty mistakes Why making people feel played is worse than making a mistake How to build something people actually want to root for 🎧 Listen if you’re wondering… Why people keep buying from certain brands even when they cost more. Why your “satisfied customers” are not sending referrals. Why discounts are not a loyalty plan. Why your business might be forgettable, even if your product is good. Listen now, then run the Jersey Test on your business: Do customers remember you, refer you, trust you, and come back without being chased? If the answer stings a little, good. That means this episode is doing its job. 🔔 Enjoyed the episode? Subscribe so you don’t miss future conversations on business growth, funding, strategy, and the stuff most people don’t explain clearly. If this episode helped, a quick rating or review goes a long way. It helps the show reach more business owners who actually care about getting this right. 🎧 Listen or watch The Liquid Lunch Project Available on all major podcast and video platforms: • Official site: • Apple Podcasts: • Spotify: • Audible: • YouTube (full episodes + clips): 📬 Want more than just the podcast? Every Friday, we publish The Weekly. A fast, smart rundown of what actually matters in finance, tech, small business, and the economy…without the noise. Subscribe here: 👉 💼 Need funding or working capital? If today’s conversation raised questions about capital, cash flow, or financing options, you can schedule a conversation with our sponsor, Credit Banc. Credit Banc helps business owners make sense of their options and move forward with a clear plan, without pressure or guesswork. 👉 Book a free 15-minute call here: 📲 Connect with the hosts Follow along for behind-the-scenes clips, commentary, and things that don’t make it into the episode. • Matt Meehan: • Luigi Rosabianca: • The Liquid Lunch Project: 💬 One last thing Know a business owner who would appreciate this conversation? Send them the episode. That’s how this show grows. /episode/index/show/shieldafterhours/id/41468900

The Real Cost of Buying a Franchise in 2026 05/27/2026

The Real Cost of Buying a Franchise in 2026 Think franchises are all burgers, fries, and regret? Rich Potter says you’re looking in the wrong aisle. In this episode of The Liquid Lunch Project, Matt and Luigi sit down with Rich Potter, founder of Franchise Heroes, to talk about what franchising really looks like in 2026. Not the shiny brochure version. The real version. Rich breaks down how franchise ownership works, what it costs, how people fund it, and why the right franchise can be a smart move for someone who is done letting corporate America hold the leash. They also dig into licensing vs. franchising, the truth about “business in a box,” and why senior care may be one of the biggest franchise opportunities sitting in plain sight. 🍸 What you'll hear in this episode: Why franchising is way bigger than food and beverage The difference between a franchise and a licensing agreement What an FDD is and why you better read it Typical franchise costs in 2026 Why many owners buy more than one territory How SBA loans and ROBS funding come into play Why “business in a box” still needs a real operator What makes a franchisor worth betting on How to turn an existing business into a franchise Why senior care is getting Rich’s vote right now 💡 Notable Takeaway: “You don’t have to reinvent the wheel. Just use what other people have done successfully and replicate it in your market, and you know, off to the races.” 👤 About our Guest: Rich Potter is the founder of Franchise Heroes, where he helps people explore franchise ownership without the hype, smoke, or sales circus. He works with professionals in transition, veterans, and future business owners who want a real shot at building something that fits their life. 🎧 Why Listen: Thinking about buying a franchise, leaving corporate life, or turning your own business into a franchise model? Hit play before you sign anything, wire money, or tell your boss where to park their quarterly review. 🔗 Links + Stuff Franchise Heroes: LinkedIn: Substack: 🔔 Enjoyed the episode? Subscribe so you don’t miss future conversations on business growth, funding, strategy, and the stuff most people don’t explain clearly. If this episode helped, a quick rating or review goes a long way. It helps the show reach more business owners who actually care about getting this right. 🎧 Listen or watch The Liquid Lunch Project Available on all major podcast and video platforms: • Official site: • Apple Podcasts: • Spotify: • Audible: • YouTube (full episodes + clips): 📬 Want more than just the podcast? Every Friday, we publish The Weekly. A fast, smart rundown of what actually matters in finance, tech, small business, and the economy…without the noise. Subscribe here: 👉 💼 Need funding or working capital? If today’s conversation raised questions about capital, cash flow, or financing options, you can schedule a conversation with our sponsor, Credit Banc. Credit Banc helps business owners make sense of their options and move forward with a clear plan, without pressure or guesswork. 👉 Book a free 15-minute call here: /episode/index/show/shieldafterhours/id/41397455

ADUs, Contractor Red Flags, and Real Estate with Gil Vaisman 05/20/2026

ADUs, Contractor Red Flags, and Real Estate with Gil Vaisman Are ADUs the next real estate gold rush… or just another permit-powered headache? Accessory Dwelling Units are moving from California trend to national real estate play. Gil Vaisman of Go ADU breaks down why homeowners are turning garages, basements, and backyards into rental income, family housing, and long-term property value. But this is not just about tiny houses with cute countertops. It is about zoning laws, contractor cash flow, city delays, bad deposits, fair pricing, and why building anything still feels like wrestling a fax machine with a clipboard. 🍸 What you'll hear in this episode: ADUs can turn one home into a mini real estate engine. California law makes it hard for cities to say “no.” HOAs are still the fun police in some states. Permits can take as long as the actual build. Cool. Totally normal. DIY ADU builds can save money… after they cost you money. Bad contractor deals often start with bad pricing. Big upfront deposits are a warning sign, not a love language. Clear contracts protect both homeowners and builders. 💡 Notable Takeaway: “I marry my wife every day, I can divorce her any second, but I choose every morning to stay married to her. And it should be the same in business.” 👤 About our Guest: Gil Vaisman is the founder of Go ADU and Vaisman Construction, where he helps homeowners build ADUs with clear pricing, repeatable systems, and fewer “where did my contractor go?” moments. 🎧 Why Listen: Thinking about building an ADU or hiring a contractor? Listen before you sign anything, pay anything, or let someone with a pickup truck and a dream touch your property. 🔗 Links + Stuff Website: LinkedIn: YouTube: 🔔 Enjoyed the episode? Subscribe so you don’t miss future conversations on business growth, funding, strategy, and the stuff most people don’t explain clearly. If this episode helped, a quick rating or review goes a long way. It helps the show reach more business owners who actually care about getting this right. 🎧 Listen or watch The Liquid Lunch Project Available on all major podcast and video platforms: • Official site: • Apple Podcasts: • Spotify: • Audible: • YouTube (full episodes + clips): 📬 Want more than just the podcast? Every Friday, we publish The Weekly. A fast, smart rundown of what actually matters in finance, tech, small business, and the economy…without the noise. Subscribe here: 👉 💼 Need funding or working capital? If today’s conversation raised questions about capital, cash flow, or financing options, you can schedule a conversation with our sponsor, Credit Banc. Credit Banc helps business owners make sense of their options and move forward with a clear plan, without pressure or guesswork. 👉 Book a free 15-minute call here: 📲 Connect with the hosts Follow along for behind-the-scenes clips, commentary, and things that don’t make it into the episode. • Matt Meehan: • Luigi Rosabianca: • The Liquid Lunch Project: 💬 One last thing Know a business owner who would appreciate this conversation? Send them the episode. That’s how this show grows. /episode/index/show/shieldafterhours/id/41311165

AI Receptionists and the Future of Small Business with Laurent Cohen 05/13/2026

AI Receptionists and the Future of Small Business with Laurent Cohen Voice AI is moving fast, and small business owners are about to feel it right in the face. In this episode, Matthew and Luigi sit down with Laurent Cohen, founder of GetOblic, to talk about voice AI, local search, customer trust, SEO, and why your dusty old website from 2014 is not going to save you. This is not another “AI will change everything” snoozefest. Laurent gets into the real stuff: why most businesses are using AI wrong, why voice may become the next front door for customers, and why pretending your robot is a human is a fast way to torch trust. 🎁 Special Listener Offer: Laurent is giving Liquid Lunch listeners an exclusive 30-day free trial to create a listing, test the voice AI, and see what your business sounds like in the future of local search. Use code LIQUID30. Claim your free trial here: 🍸 Episode Highlights: Voice AI is coming for the receptionist desk. Small businesses need trust before tech. AI is not magic. Bad data still makes bad results. Google, Yelp, and Meta are all circling the same prize. Voice search may change how local customers find you. Your AI should not pretend to be you. Creepy is not a strategy. SEO is changing, but nobody has the secret recipe. Small business owners are tired of being told to “show up everywhere.” 💡 Notable Takeaway: “An AI agent is only as strong as the data you provide.” 👤 About our Guest: Laurent Cohen is the founder of GetOblic, a voice-first AI business directory helping small businesses use voice AI to answer questions, build trust, and stay visible online. Go to getoblic.com, create a listing, and test the voice AI for your business before your competitors figure it out. 🔗 Links + Stuff Website: LinkedIn: Instagram: Facebook: X (Twitter): YouTube: TikTok: Substack: 🔔 Enjoyed the episode? Subscribe so you don’t miss future conversations on business growth, funding, strategy, and the stuff most people don’t explain clearly. If this episode helped, a quick rating or review goes a long way. It helps the show reach more business owners who actually care about getting this right. 🎧 Listen or watch The Liquid Lunch Project Available on all major podcast and video platforms: • Official site: • Apple Podcasts: • Spotify: • Audible: • YouTube (full episodes + clips): 📬 Want more than just the podcast? Every Friday, we publish The Weekly. A fast, smart rundown of what actually matters in finance, tech, small business, and the economy…without the noise. Subscribe here: 👉 💼 Need funding or working capital? If today’s conversation raised questions about capital, cash flow, or financing options, you can schedule a conversation with our sponsor, Credit Banc. Credit Banc helps business owners make sense of their options and move forward with a clear plan, without pressure or guesswork. 👉 Book a free 15-minute call here: 📲 Connect with the hosts Follow along for behind-the-scenes clips, commentary, and things that don’t make it into the episode. • Matt Meehan: • Luigi Rosabianca: • The Liquid Lunch Project: 💬 One last thing Know a business owner who would appreciate this conversation? Send them the episode. That’s how this show grows. /episode/index/show/shieldafterhours/id/41221840

Why Cheap Shipping Can Cost You More 05/06/2026

Why Cheap Shipping Can Cost You More Think delivery is just the boring part after the sale? That’s where a lot of businesses screw it up. In this episode, Matthew R. Meehan and Luigi Rosabianca sit down with Randy Vlasic, founder of LIWMI Logistics, to talk about what really happens between “it shipped” and “it showed up.” They get into why trucking gets hit first when the economy gets weird, why chasing the cheapest option can blow up in your face, and why delivery is part of your brand whether you like it or not. Randy also breaks down how smaller trucking operations survive, what strong logistics support actually looks like, and why service still beats price when the stakes are high. 🍸 What you'll hear in this episode: What third-party logistics actually does Why trucking feels market pain before everyone else How fuel spikes wreck transportation costs fast Why “cheap shipping” can become an expensive mistake Delivery is part of the customer experience, not an afterthought How small carriers compete in a fractured market Why long-term shipping relationships beat transactional buying What logistics brokers really do beyond booking freight How Randy scaled with a remote team and support-first model The bigger mission behind Life Is What We Make It 💡 Notable Takeaway: “Trucking is a good indicator of what’s happening in the world. They see it first.” 👤 About our Guest: Randy Vlasic is the founder of LIWMI Logistics and host of the Life Is What We Make It Podcast. He built his name in logistics by solving ugly business problems, building strong teams, and turning hard lessons into a bigger mission. 🎧 Why Listen: Listen to the full episode, then ask yourself one uncomfortable question: are you buying shipping based on price, or based on what it does to your brand? 🔗 Links + Stuff Website (Logistics): Personal Brand: LinkedIn: Instagram: 🔔 Enjoyed the episode? Subscribe so you don’t miss future conversations on business growth, funding, strategy, and the stuff most people don’t explain clearly. If this episode helped, a quick rating or review goes a long way. It helps the show reach more business owners who actually care about getting this right. 🎧 Listen or watch The Liquid Lunch Project Available on all major podcast and video platforms: • Official site: • Apple Podcasts: • Spotify: • Audible: • YouTube (full episodes + clips): 📬 Want more than just the podcast? Every Friday, we publish The Weekly. A fast, smart rundown of what actually matters in finance, tech, small business, and the economy…without the noise. Subscribe here: 👉 💼 Need funding or working capital? If today’s conversation raised questions about capital, cash flow, or financing options, you can schedule a conversation with our sponsor, Credit Banc. Credit Banc helps business owners make sense of their options and move forward with a clear plan, without pressure or guesswork. 👉 Book a free 15-minute call here: 📲 Connect with the hosts Follow along for behind-the-scenes clips, commentary, and things that don’t make it into the episode. • Matt Meehan: • Luigi Rosabianca: • The Liquid Lunch Project: 💬 One last thing Know a business owner who would appreciate this conversation? Send them the episode. That’s how this show grows. /episode/index/show/shieldafterhours/id/41121160

Start Small: A Smarter Way to Use AI in Business 04/29/2026

Start Small: A Smarter Way to Use AI in Business AI isn’t coming. It’s already in the room. The real question is whether your business is asleep at the wheel. Michael Finkelstein, founder and CEO of KINETK, joins Matthew and Luigi for a straight-up talk about AI, data, and why most businesses are still thinking way too small. This episode gets into what happens when data stops being static, why hidden relationships matter, and how small businesses can move faster than giant companies stuck in meetings about meetings. 🍸 What you'll hear in this episode: Why data is the real power behind AI What “building for the autonomous era” actually means The difference between using AI as a tool vs using it as an operating layer Why small businesses may have the edge over big companies The trap of AI FOMO and shiny-object syndrome A simple way to start using AI without blowing up your business Why Michael believes the progress clock is broken How hidden data relationships can shape better decisions 💡 Notable Takeaway: “It is not for the weak of heart. You’ve got to be driven by something besides just money.” 👤 About our Guest: Michael Finkelstein is the founder and CEO of KINETK, a company building AI-powered data systems that help businesses move faster, cut friction, and make smarter decisions at scale. 🎧 Why Listen: Want to see how AI can help your business think faster and work smarter? Check out KINETK and connect with Michael to keep the conversation going. 🔗 Links + Stuff Website: LinkedIn: LinkedIn (company): 📬 Want more than just the podcast? Every Friday, we publish The Weekly. A fast, smart rundown of what actually matters in finance, tech, small business, and the economy...without the noise. Subscribe here: 👉 💼 Need funding or working capital? If today’s conversation raised questions about capital, cash flow, or financing options, you can schedule a conversation with our sponsor, Credit Banc. Credit Banc helps business owners make sense of their options and move forward with a clear plan, without pressure or guesswork. 👉 Book a free 15-minute call here: 📲 Connect with the hosts Follow along for behind-the-scenes clips, commentary, and things that don’t make it into the episode. • Matt Meehan: • Luigi Rosabianca: • The Liquid Lunch Project: 💬 One last thing Know a business owner who would appreciate this conversation? Send them the episode. That’s how this show grows. /episode/index/show/shieldafterhours/id/41003685

How to Break Free From Limiting Beliefs and Family Expectations | Betsy Pepine 04/22/2026

How to Break Free From Limiting Beliefs and Family Expectations | Betsy Pepine What if the life everyone claps for is the one quietly choking you out? Betsy Pepine joins Matt and Lou for a sharp conversation about the boxes people get shoved into by family, culture, work, gender, and plain old habit. This episode gets into what happens when you stop treating other people’s expectations like law and start asking a better question: Does this life even fit? 🍸 What you'll hear in this episode: The “good kid” trap is real. Family pressure can look a lot like love. Some boxes protect you. Some just shrink you. Moms get judged from every angle. Betsy says it out loud. Tradition is great. Forced tradition is not. Your body usually knows before your brain does. Breaking the box is hard. Living with the backlash is harder. Success means nothing if it belongs to somebody else. Grab Betsy’s book, then send this episode to the person in your life who’s still living by somebody else’s script. 💡 Notable Takeaway: “You gotta recognize you’re in a box to get out of it.” 👤 About our Guest: Betsy Pepine is a serial entrepreneur, author, and speaker focused on helping people break free from limiting beliefs and live on their own terms. She’s the author of Breaking Boxes and has built multiple ventures while raising two daughters as a single mom. 🔗 Links + Stuff Betsy Pepine: Instagram: LinkedIn: “Breaking Boxes” is available on Amazon, Barnes and Noble, Books-a-Million, and her website. 📬 Want more than just the podcast? Every Friday, we publish The Weekly. A fast, smart rundown of what actually matters in finance, tech, small business, and the economy...without the noise. Subscribe here: 👉 💼 Need funding or working capital? If today’s conversation raised questions about capital, cash flow, or financing options, you can schedule a conversation with our sponsor, Credit Banc. Credit Banc helps business owners make sense of their options and move forward with a clear plan, without pressure or guesswork. 👉 Book a free 15-minute call here: 📲 Connect with the hosts Follow along for behind-the-scenes clips, commentary, and things that don’t make it into the episode. • Matt Meehan: • Luigi Rosabianca: • The Liquid Lunch Project: 💬 One last thing Know a business owner who would appreciate this conversation? Send them the episode. That’s how this show grows. /episode/index/show/shieldafterhours/id/40910740

What Founders Get Wrong About Capital and Exit Strategy 04/15/2026

What Founders Get Wrong About Capital and Exit Strategy What if the system isn’t broken… it’s working exactly how it was designed? Dr. Thomas Powell joins us to break down what founders get wrong about capital, why most businesses trap their owners, and how the same patterns show up in government. This is part entrepreneurship, part constitutional reality check…and a little uncomfortable in all the right ways. 🍸 What you'll hear in this episode: Why “raising capital” has nothing to do with money The brutal truth behind the Founder’s Isolation Paradox Why most founders don’t actually own a business… they own a job The real difference between a democracy and a republic Why the administrative state isn’t checked the way you think How “helping people” can quietly trap them instead What business owners get wrong when planning an exit 💡 Notable Takeaway: “No matter how many people you have around you, you are still at the center of making the decisions… that's the founder's isolation paradox.” 👤 About our Guest: Dr. Thomas Powell is the founder of The Founder’s Office and a constitutional law professor who helps business owners raise capital, scale, and actually exit. 🎧 Why Listen: If you’re building something (or stuck inside something you built) this episode will hit. Listen now and ask yourself: are you running your business… or is it running you? 🔗 Links + Stuff Website: About / Bio: 📬 Want more than just the podcast? Every Friday, we publish The Weekly. A fast, smart rundown of what actually matters in finance, tech, small business, and the economy...without the noise. Subscribe here: 👉 💼 Need funding or working capital? If today’s conversation raised questions about capital, cash flow, or financing options, you can schedule a conversation with our sponsor, Credit Banc. Credit Banc helps business owners make sense of their options and move forward with a clear plan, without pressure or guesswork. 👉 Book a free 15-minute call here: 📲 Connect with the hosts Follow along for behind-the-scenes clips, commentary, and things that don’t make it into the episode. • Matt Meehan: • Luigi Rosabianca: • The Liquid Lunch Project: 💬 One last thing Know a business owner who would appreciate this conversation? Send them the episode. That’s how this show grows. /episode/index/show/shieldafterhours/id/40870440

Why The Businesses That Grow Best Usually Do Less 04/08/2026

Why The Businesses That Grow Best Usually Do Less What if your business is growing... and getting worse at the same time? Most founders think growth means adding more. More offers. More channels. More customers. More moving parts. Yarin says that works early, but somewhere between $2M and $20M in revenue, that same habit starts eating your margin alive. In this episode, Matt and Luigi sit down with Yarin Gaon of Fractional Partners to talk about the Clarity Playbook, a private-equity-style framework built for companies too small for private equity but big enough to need real focus. The conversation gets into why founders confuse friction with execution problems, why “just hustle harder” stops working, and how narrowing the business can make it stronger, cleaner, and more profitable. 🍸 What you'll hear in this episode: Why growth by addition works early and backfires later The hidden tax of selling too many things to too many people Why profit matters more than revenue when choosing what to scale The three “clarity canvases” Yarin uses with leadership teams How misalignment creates profit leaks Why most founders do not need more tactics. They need better filters. The hardest move for type-A founders: pausing long enough to think Why focus is not playing small. It is how you stop building a mediocre Frankenstein of a business 💡 Notable Takeaway: “Just hustle” doesn't work at that scale. 👤 About our Guest: Yarin is the founder of Fractional Partners and creator of the Clarity Playbook, an open framework designed to help $2M to $20M companies sharpen focus, improve profit, and build a stronger business without handing the keys to private equity. 🎧 Why Listen: If your business is doing enough revenue to feel the friction, but not enough to brute-force through it, listen to this episode and then check out Yarin’s Clarity Playbook. It might save you from adding three new problems in the name of growth. 🔗 Links + Stuff FREE Clarify Playbook v2.0: LinkedIn: Website: 📬 Want more than just the podcast? Every Friday, we publish The Weekly. A fast, smart rundown of what actually matters in finance, tech, small business, and the economy...without the noise. Subscribe here: 👉 💼 Need funding or working capital? If today’s conversation raised questions about capital, cash flow, or financing options, you can schedule a conversation with our sponsor, Credit Banc. Credit Banc helps business owners make sense of their options and move forward with a clear plan, without pressure or guesswork. 👉 Book a free 15-minute call here: 📲 Connect with the hosts Follow along for behind-the-scenes clips, commentary, and things that don’t make it into the episode. • Matt Meehan: • Luigi Rosabianca: • The Liquid Lunch Project: 💬 One last thing Know a business owner who would appreciate this conversation? Send them the episode. That’s how this show grows. /episode/index/show/shieldafterhours/id/40751005

Debt, Tariffs, and the Truth About Today’s Global Economy 04/01/2026

Debt, Tariffs, and the Truth About Today’s Global Economy What happens when a grown-up economist says the quiet part out loud: the U.S. is acting like it can break the rules forever? Andrés Velasco joins Matt and Luigi for a sharp, no-spin talk on debt, tariffs, copper, central banks, globalization, and why countries that treat boom times like a Vegas weekend usually end up crying in the shower. From Chile’s “save it, don’t blow it” playbook to America’s very expensive habit of pretending deficits don’t matter, this episode puts real-world economics back in plain English. 🍸 Episode Highlights: Latin America is doing better than the doom crowd admits. Democracy in the region held up better than many expected. Inflation used to be the norm. Now it is mostly under control. Tariffs on Canada and Mexico get called what they are: nonsense. Chile’s copper money worked because they saved when everyone wanted to spend. Commodity booms usually end badly when governments get cocky. AI, electrification, and climate policy are making copper even hotter. Massive public debt stops being funny when rates are no longer near zero. Central banks still have power, but only if politicians keep their hands off. Bitcoin gets no love. Watch this one, then send it to the person who still thinks tariffs are a magic trick and deficits are fake. 💡 Notable Takeaway: “There’s no example in human history where a country got rich without a dynamic private sector.” 👤 About our Guest: Andrés Velasco is the Dean of the School of Public Policy at the London School of Economics and former Finance Minister of Chile. He is widely known for steering Chile through a global crisis by saving during the copper boom instead of spending like a maniac. 🔗 Links + Stuff Download “The London Consensus” for FREE: London School of Economics Profile: 📬 Want more than just the podcast? Every Friday, we publish The Weekly. A fast, smart rundown of what actually matters in finance, tech, small business, and the economy...without the noise. Subscribe here: 👉 💼 Need funding or working capital? If today’s conversation raised questions about capital, cash flow, or financing options, you can schedule a conversation with our sponsor, Credit Banc. Credit Banc helps business owners make sense of their options and move forward with a clear plan, without pressure or guesswork. 👉 Book a free 15-minute call here: 📲 Connect with the hosts Follow along for behind-the-scenes clips, commentary, and things that don’t make it into the episode. • Matt Meehan: • Luigi Rosabianca: • The Liquid Lunch Project: 💬 One last thing Know a business owner who would appreciate this conversation? Send them the episode. That’s how this show grows. /episode/index/show/shieldafterhours/id/40681280

How Story-Driven Growth Helps Small Businesses Scale 03/25/2026

How Story-Driven Growth Helps Small Businesses Scale What if the thing you’ve been calling “branding” is actually the backbone of your business? Dan Grech joins Matt and Luigi to make the case that a founder’s story is not decoration, not nice-to-have, and not something you slap on a homepage after the real work is done. It’s the thing that holds the whole machine together. From getting fired out of journalism to building BizHack Academy, Dan breaks down how story drives revenue, hiring, trust, and the ability to keep going when business gets ugly. 🍸 Key Highlights: Getting fired pushed Dan into business. Most founders are running on old wounds. Dark energy can move you fast. It can also burn you out. A founder story should drive sales, hiring, trust, and staying power. The same core story can be shaped for different moments. Big brands break trust when the story and behavior stop matching. Small business has one unfair advantage: it can still be honest. 🎧 Why Listen? Because this episode gets at the thing most founders screw up: they treat story like decoration when it’s really the engine. Dan makes a sharp case for why the right story can help you sell, hire, build trust, and keep your head on straight when business starts punching back. 💡 Notable Takeaway: There is a story behind the story that can actually help grow a business. 👤 About our Guest: Dan Grech is the founder of BizHack Academy and creator of the Story-Driven Growth Framework. He’s a former NPR and PBS journalist, and the author of the upcoming book Your Business Is Your Story. 🔗 Links + Stuff Website: LinkedIn: Facebook: Instagram: X (Twitter): YouTube: Learn more about his upcoming book at . 📬 Want more than just the podcast? Every Friday, we publish The Weekly. A fast, smart rundown of what actually matters in finance, tech, small business, and the economy...without the noise. Subscribe here: 👉 💼 Need funding or working capital? If today’s conversation raised questions about capital, cash flow, or financing options, you can schedule a conversation with our sponsor, Credit Banc. Credit Banc helps business owners make sense of their options and move forward with a clear plan, without pressure or guesswork. 👉 Book a free 15-minute call here: 📲 Connect with the hosts Follow along for behind-the-scenes clips, commentary, and things that don’t make it into the episode. • Matt Meehan: • Luigi Rosabianca: • The Liquid Lunch Project: 💬 One last thing Know a business owner who would appreciate this conversation? Send them the episode. That’s how this show grows. /episode/index/show/shieldafterhours/id/40591860

IRS Audits: What Business Owners Get Wrong 03/18/2026

IRS Audits: What Business Owners Get Wrong You think the IRS is scary? Cool. Now imagine TikTok is your tax attorney. Pietro E. Canestrelli (JD, LL.M.) jumps in to kill the “one weird trick” tax myths and explain how people actually get wrecked: audits, missing returns, bad CPA advice, and the quiet fact that you’re the one holding the bag. 🍸 What you'll hear in this episode: TikTok “tax hacks” are basically a DIY fraud starter kit. “Register it in Nevada” is not clever. It’s a trap. “Everyone should be an S-Corp” is lazy advice. Period. If the IRS says they don’t have your return… it’s not filed. The IRS letters feel cold because the system is built to be cold. The Taxpayer Advocate can hit pause when things go sideways. Audits are a skills mismatch: they’ve done hundreds… you haven’t. Keep records forever. Yes, forever. 💡 Notable Takeaway: Every business owner needs to know that there are giant icebergs out there. We help taxpayers avoid them. 👤 About our Guest: Pietro E. Canestrelli, JD, LL.M. is a California Certified Specialist in Taxation Law and former IRS attorney who helps taxpayers with planning, audits, and tax debt fights. 🎧 Why Listen: Got an IRS letter and your stomach dropped? Listen to this episode, then go to ietaxattorney.com and stop guessing. 🔗 Links + Stuff Website: Instagram: 🔔 Enjoyed the episode? Subscribe so you don’t miss future conversations on business growth, funding, strategy, and the stuff most people don’t explain clearly. If this episode helped, a quick rating or review goes a long way. It helps the show reach more business owners who actually care about getting this right. 🎧 Listen or watch The Liquid Lunch Project Available on all major podcast and video platforms: • Official site:• Apple Podcasts:• Spotify:• Audible:• YouTube (full episodes + clips): 📬 Want more than just the podcast? Every Friday, we publish The Weekly. A fast, smart rundown of what actually matters in finance, tech, small business, and the economy...without the noise. Subscribe here: 👉 💼 Need funding or working capital? If today’s conversation raised questions about capital, cash flow, or financing options, you can schedule a conversation with our sponsor, Credit Banc. Credit Banc helps business owners make sense of their options and move forward with a clear plan, without pressure or guesswork. 👉 Book a free 15-minute call here: 📲 Connect with the hosts Follow along for behind-the-scenes clips, commentary, and things that don’t make it into the episode. • Matt Meehan: • Luigi Rosabianca: • The Liquid Lunch Project: 💬 One last thing Know a business owner who would appreciate this conversation? Send them the episode. That’s how this show grows. /episode/index/show/shieldafterhours/id/40499375

What Actually Wins When Business Gets Hard: March Madness Edition 03/11/2026

What Actually Wins When Business Gets Hard: March Madness Edition It’s March. Everyone’s arguing about brackets. So we built one for business. But instead of basketball teams, we’re matching up what founders lean on when things get real: Discipline vs. motivation. Vision vs. execution Speed vs. strategy. Branding vs. operations. Because when revenue dips and momentum stalls, you don’t get to rely on everything. You lean somewhere. This episode is a pressure test. What actually survives when your business hits a slump? 🏀 This one covers: Why motivation fades in long seasons Why discipline carries weight when things get quiet The danger of launching too many new ideas How to test the market before you build Speed vs. careful planning in early growth Why operations quietly outlast flashy branding The real takeaway: what wins one season may not win the next There’s no single champion. But there is a pattern. If you had to pick one to carry your business this year, what’s it going to be? 🔔 Enjoyed the episode? Subscribe so you don’t miss future conversations on business growth, funding, strategy, and the stuff most people don’t explain clearly. If this episode helped, a quick rating or review goes a long way. It helps the show reach more business owners who actually care about getting this right. 🎧 Listen or watch The Liquid Lunch Project Available on all major podcast and video platforms: • Official site:• Apple Podcasts:• Spotify:• Audible:• YouTube (full episodes + clips): 📬 Want more than just the podcast? Every Friday, we publish The Weekly. A fast, smart rundown of what actually matters in finance, tech, small business, and the economy...without the noise. Subscribe here: 👉 💼 Need funding or working capital? If today’s conversation raised questions about capital, cash flow, or financing options, you can schedule a conversation with our sponsor, Credit Banc. Credit Banc helps business owners make sense of their options and move forward with a clear plan, without pressure or guesswork. 👉 Book a free 15-minute call here: 📲 Connect with the hosts Follow along for behind-the-scenes clips, commentary, and things that don’t make it into the episode. • Matt Meehan: • Luigi Rosabianca: • The Liquid Lunch Project: 💬 One last thing Know a business owner who would appreciate this conversation? Send them the episode. That’s how this show grows. /episode/index/show/shieldafterhours/id/40375005

Why Some Brains Don’t Fit School 03/04/2026

Why Some Brains Don’t Fit School Some people are not bad at learning. They were just trained inside the wrong system. Russell Van Brocklen joins Matt and Luigi for a conversation that starts with dyslexia but quickly turns into something much bigger: how highly capable people get mislabeled, misunderstood, and boxed into models that do not match how their brains actually work. If you run a business, manage people, or have ever felt like you think differently than the world expects, this episode will feel strangely familiar. Inside this episode: Why dyslexics often function as specialists, not generalists How traditional education mirrors many workplace problems The hidden pattern behind “smart but struggling” Why writing can stabilize fast, scattered thinking The cost trap families and systems fall into Extreme performance shifts from simple changes Why environment fit often beats raw ability 💡 Notable Takeaway: I was done with the discrimination. I was done with it. I said, I'm going to solve dyslexia. 👤 About our Guest: Russell Van Brocklen, known as The Dyslexia Professor, shares his own experience navigating severe dyslexia, the cognitive patterns most systems ignore, and the methods he developed to help learners operate closer to their actual potential. 🎧 Why Listen: This episode is about dyslexia. But it is also about how different minds work, why some people thrive outside conventional structures, and how easily talent gets misread. If you have ever questioned how intelligence, performance, and “ability” get measured, this one is worth your time. 🔗 Links + Stuff Website: Instagram: LinkedIn: Facebook: Email: 🔔 Enjoyed the episode? Subscribe so you don’t miss future conversations on business growth, funding, strategy, and the stuff most people don’t explain clearly. If this episode helped, a quick rating or review goes a long way. It helps the show reach more business owners who actually care about getting this right. 🎧 Listen or watch The Liquid Lunch Project Available on all major podcast and video platforms: • Official site:• Apple Podcasts:• Spotify:• Audible:• YouTube (full episodes + clips): 📬 Want more than just the podcast? Every Friday, we publish The Weekly. A fast, smart rundown of what actually matters in finance, tech, small business, and the economy...without the noise. Subscribe here: 👉 💼 Need funding or working capital? If today’s conversation raised questions about capital, cash flow, or financing options, you can schedule a conversation with our sponsor, Credit Banc. Credit Banc helps business owners make sense of their options and move forward with a clear plan, without pressure or guesswork. 👉 Book a free 15-minute call here: 📲 Connect with the hosts Follow along for behind-the-scenes clips, commentary, and things that don’t make it into the episode. • Matt Meehan: • Luigi Rosabianca: • The Liquid Lunch Project: 💬 One last thing Know a business owner who would appreciate this conversation? Send them the episode. That’s how this show grows. /episode/index/show/shieldafterhours/id/40298260

Why Trades Businesses Are Losing Jobs Online 02/25/2026

Why Trades Businesses Are Losing Jobs Online Your Website Is Dead. You Just Haven’t Checked the Pulse. Contractors love tools. But hate marketing. And that’s exactly why they’re losing jobs in 2026. If you’re an HVAC company, plumber, electrician, or builder still treating your website like a digital brochure… you’re invisible. Wes Towers, founder of Uplift 360, joins us to talk contractor marketing, local SEO, and why most trades businesses wait until work dries up before they panic. This one isn’t about “branding.” It’s about survival. 🍸 What we hit on: Why contractors avoid marketing when business is good The stale website mistake killing your Google traffic Why case studies beat AI garbage every time How to structure a contractor website that converts Where trades should focus on social media (and where not to) Google Business Profile for local contractors The deposit mistake sinking builders in 2026 💡 Notable Takeaway: This is how you do business. You set the rules. Because at the end of the day, it’s your risk. 👤 About our Guest: Wes Towers runs Uplift 360, a marketing agency built for builders and trades. He helps construction companies get found online and win better jobs without pretending to be influencers. 🎧 Why Listen: If you run a trades business and want more leads in 2026, fix your website first. Then listen to this episode. 🔗 Links + Stuff Website: LinkedIn: Instagram: Facebook: X (Twitter): 🔔 Enjoyed the episode? Subscribe so you don’t miss future conversations on business growth, funding, strategy, and the stuff most people don’t explain clearly. If this episode helped, a quick rating or review goes a long way. It helps the show reach more business owners who actually care about getting this right. 🎧 Listen or watch The Liquid Lunch Project Available on all major podcast and video platforms: • Official site: • Apple Podcasts: • Spotify: • Audible: • YouTube (full episodes + clips): 📬 Want more than just the podcast? Every Friday, we publish The Weekly. A fast, smart rundown of what actually matters in finance, tech, small business, and the economy...without the noise. Subscribe here: 👉 💼 Need funding or working capital? If today’s conversation raised questions about capital, cash flow, or financing options, you can schedule a conversation with our sponsor, Credit Banc. Credit Banc helps business owners make sense of their options and move forward with a clear plan, without pressure or guesswork. 👉 Book a free 15-minute call here: 📲 Connect with the hosts Follow along for behind-the-scenes clips, commentary, and things that don’t make it into the episode. • Matt Meehan: • Luigi Rosabianca: • The Liquid Lunch Project: 💬 One last thing Know a business owner who would appreciate this conversation? Send them the episode. That’s how this show grows. /episode/index/show/shieldafterhours/id/40168315

The Overlooked Real Estate Asset That Investors Misjudge 02/18/2026

The Overlooked Real Estate Asset That Investors Misjudge What if the investment you’ve been ignoring is ignoring recessions, too? Stocks are floating at all-time highs. Everyone’s calm. That’s usually when things get weird. Matt opens this episode with a blunt take: when the market turns, investors don’t get creative. They panic into real estate. The problem? Most people only know one version of it. So we brought on Matthias Gruenwald, a former German corporate exec who quietly built a real estate business around mobile home parks, the asset class most investors joke about and then completely misunderstand. This isn’t a hype episode. It’s a reality check. 🍸 What you'll hear in this episode: Why “trailer park” thinking kills good deals The difference between owning land vs owning buildings Why tenants in mobile home parks don’t leave How depreciation works when you don’t own the homes What a first-time syndication looks like when you have no idea how to raise money How a $3.85M deal almost fell apart…and didn’t 💡 Notable Takeaway: The tax benefits on mobile home parks are amazing. Actually, one of the best, if not the best, in commercial real estate. 👤 About our Guest: Matthias Gruenwald is the founder of WCG Investments, focused on mobile home and RV parks across the Southeast. He specializes in boring assets that quietly outperform. 🎧 Why Listen: If you still think mobile home parks are risky, listen before the next downturn proves you wrong. 🔗 Links + Stuff – Book by Matthias Gruenwald (search on Amazon) Connect with Matthias: 🔔 Enjoyed the episode? Subscribe so you don’t miss future conversations on business growth, funding, strategy, and the stuff most people don’t explain clearly. If this episode helped, a quick rating or review goes a long way. It helps the show reach more business owners who actually care about getting this right. 🎧 Listen or watch The Liquid Lunch Project Available on all major podcast and video platforms: • Official site: • Apple Podcasts: • Spotify: • Audible: • YouTube (full episodes + clips): 📬 Want more than just the podcast? Every Friday, we publish The Weekly. A fast, smart rundown of what actually matters in finance, tech, small business, and the economy…without the noise. Subscribe here: 👉 💼 Need funding or working capital? If today’s conversation raised questions about capital, cash flow, or financing options, you can schedule a conversation with our sponsor, Credit Banc. Credit Banc helps business owners make sense of their options and move forward with a clear plan, without pressure or guesswork. 👉 Book a free 15-minute call here: 📲 Connect with the hosts Follow along for behind-the-scenes clips, commentary, and things that don’t make it into the episode. • Matt Meehan: • Luigi Rosabianca: • The Liquid Lunch Project: 💬 One last thing Know a business owner who would appreciate this conversation? Send them the episode. That’s how this show grows. /episode/index/show/shieldafterhours/id/40124435

Trump Wants to Cap Rates, Florida Wants $50K to Let You In 02/11/2026

Trump Wants to Cap Rates, Florida Wants $50K to Let You In What happens when politics, credit cards, housing markets, and Florida border tolls all walk into one podcast? 🍸 In this episode, Matthew and Luigi attempt to make sense of: Trump’s credit card rate cap Inflation versus liquidity Housing incentives and “portable mortgages” A bizarre Florida “toll tax” Small business tax realities Tell us: Should the government cap interest or shut the hell up? DM us or scream into the comments. 🔔 Enjoyed the episode? Subscribe so you don’t miss future conversations on business growth, funding, strategy, and the stuff most people don’t explain clearly. If this episode helped, a quick rating or review goes a long way. It helps the show reach more business owners who actually care about getting this right. 🎧 Listen or watch The Liquid Lunch Project Available on all major podcast and video platforms: • Official site:• Apple Podcasts:• Spotify:• Audible:• YouTube (full episodes + clips): 📬 Want more than just the podcast? Every Friday, we publish The Weekly. A fast, smart rundown of what actually matters in finance, tech, small business, and the economy...without the noise. Subscribe here: 👉 💼 Need funding or working capital? If today’s conversation raised questions about capital, cash flow, or financing options, you can schedule a conversation with our sponsor, Credit Banc. Credit Banc helps business owners make sense of their options and move forward with a clear plan, without pressure or guesswork. 👉 Book a free 15-minute call here: 📲 Connect with the hosts Follow along for behind-the-scenes clips, commentary, and things that don’t make it into the episode. • Matt Meehan: • Luigi Rosabianca: • The Liquid Lunch Project: 💬 One last thing Know a business owner who would appreciate this conversation? Send them the episode. That’s how this show grows. /episode/index/show/shieldafterhours/id/40060495

Masterminds, Time Traps, & What Entrepreneurs Get Wrong About Growth 02/04/2026

Masterminds, Time Traps, & What Entrepreneurs Get Wrong About Growth If your business falls apart when you leave for vacation, congrats. You built a trap, not a company. This episode isn't another cheerleading session for overworked founders. Jake Isaacs joins Matt and Luigi to rip into why most entrepreneurs are exhausted, isolated, and low-key addicted to chaos. From building real communities to training kids for capitalism early, Jake lays out how Gathering the Kings is more than a buzzword mastermind; it’s a system for staying sane. 🍸 What you'll hear in this episode: Why most entrepreneurs are the misunderstood “weirdos” of their families What a real mastermind is (spoiler: it’s not coaching) How Generation Next teaches 6-year-olds to think like CEOs The 4 pillars every business owner must master How to hire a bookkeeper before your business bankrupts you Why entrepreneurs struggle to delegate (and how it kills growth) Why your spouse and kids should know your business goals The Family Mastermind Vacation (yes, it’s a thing, and yes, you need it) 💡 Notable Takeaway: Time management is the number one skill an adult can hold. If you don’t have it, your life is chaos. 👤 About our Guest: Jake Isaacs is the co-founder of Gathering the Kings, a mastermind for high-performing, family-focused entrepreneurs who want real growth without losing their minds, marriages, or Monday mornings. 🎧 Why Listen: Want to stop being the bottleneck in your business? Check out and find your people. 🔗 Links + Stuff 🔔 Enjoyed the episode? Subscribe so you don’t miss future conversations on business growth, funding, strategy, and the stuff most people don’t explain clearly. If this episode helped, a quick rating or review goes a long way. It helps the show reach more business owners who actually care about getting this right. 🎧 Listen or watch The Liquid Lunch Project Available on all major podcast and video platforms: • Official site:• Apple Podcasts:• Spotify:• Audible:• YouTube (full episodes + clips): 📬 Want more than just the podcast? Every Friday, we publish The Weekly. A fast, smart rundown of what actually matters in finance, tech, small business, and the economy...without the noise. Subscribe here: 👉 💼 Need funding or working capital? If today’s conversation raised questions about capital, cash flow, or financing options, you can schedule a conversation with our sponsor, Credit Banc. Credit Banc helps business owners make sense of their options and move forward with a clear plan, without pressure or guesswork. 👉 Book a free 15-minute call here: 📲 Connect with the hosts Follow along for behind-the-scenes clips, commentary, and things that don’t make it into the episode. • Matt Meehan: • Luigi Rosabianca: • The Liquid Lunch Project: 💬 One last thing Know a business owner who would appreciate this conversation? Send them the episode. That’s how this show grows. /episode/index/show/shieldafterhours/id/39993035

How 40,000 Entrepreneurs Took Back Control of Their Time 01/28/2026

How 40,000 Entrepreneurs Took Back Control of Their Time Question: What do you want to do with your life? If your planner doesn't have an answer, you're doing it wrong. This week on The Liquid Lunch Project, Matt & Luigi sit down with Jason VanDevere, founder of Goal Crazy Planners and author of Dream Driven, to talk about time, discipline, and why the old-school paper planner might be the ultimate productivity hack for entrepreneurs. Jason went from turning down the family empire (think: 5 car dealerships) to building his own path around purpose, passion, and parenting, all without losing his damn mind. 🍸 What you'll hear in this episode: Why digital to-do lists are a trap How a paper planner can help you take back control of your day The "expectations gap" and how it wrecks relationships Training your team (and your clients) to respect your time How to turn dreams into practical goals (and why most people get it backwards) Why time blocking isn’t extreme—it’s survival Building a business that supports your life (not the other way around) 💡 Notable Takeaway:You can either be a slave to your own schedule…or a slave to the demands the world throws at you. 👤 About our Guest:Jason VanDevere is the creator of Goal Crazy Planners, a coach, and author of Dream Driven. He helps entrepreneurs get clarity, reclaim their time, and chase big dreams without burnout. 🎧 Listen if you’re…:... juggling 19 things and still feel like you're dropping the ball. ... ready to finally draw some lines between business and life. ... tired of hearing "just use another app" as the answer. 🔗 Links + Stuff Grab Jason’s free Life Crash Course at to figure out what the hell you actually want from your business and your life. 🔔 Enjoyed the episode? Subscribe so you don’t miss future conversations on business growth, funding, strategy, and the stuff most people don’t explain clearly. If this episode helped, a quick rating or review goes a long way. It helps the show reach more business owners who actually care about getting this right. 🎧 Listen or watch The Liquid Lunch Project Available on all major podcast and video platforms: • Official site:• Apple Podcasts:• Spotify:• Audible:• YouTube (full episodes + clips): 📬 Want more than just the podcast? Every Friday, we publish The Weekly. A fast, smart rundown of what actually matters in finance, tech, small business, and the economy...without the noise. Subscribe here: 👉 💼 Need funding or working capital? If today’s conversation raised questions about capital, cash flow, or financing options, you can schedule a conversation with our sponsor, Credit Banc. Credit Banc helps business owners make sense of their options and move forward with a clear plan, without pressure or guesswork. 👉 Book a free 15-minute call here: 📲 Connect with the hosts Follow along for behind-the-scenes clips, commentary, and things that don’t make it into the episode. • Matt Meehan: • Luigi Rosabianca: • The Liquid Lunch Project: 💬 One last thing Know a business owner who would appreciate this conversation? Send them the episode. That’s how this show grows. /episode/index/show/shieldafterhours/id/39885335

What AI, Taxes, and Politics Mean for Real Estate 01/21/2026

What AI, Taxes, and Politics Mean for Real Estate Ever heard a data scientist call real estate magic? That’s exactly what happens when Silicon Valley smarts collide with multifamily investing, and this episode of The Liquid Lunch Project proves it. We’re sitting down with Neal Bawa, the Mad Scientist of Multifamily, to decode how he built a $600M real estate portfolio by treating cities like spreadsheets, and why he believes most investors are looking in the wrong places. Why Listen? If you're done with recycled real estate advice and want sharper thinking for your business and investments, hit play. Neal reverse-engineers markets, leverages depreciation as a financial weapon, and maps out where smart founders are moving before the headlines hit. Whether you're building your portfolio or scaling your small business, this is a perspective that pays off. 🚀 What You'll Learn in This Episode: How a 50% tax rate pushed Neal from tech into real estate The power of depreciation for small business owners How Neal ranks 1,000+ cities using 5 key data points Why Idaho Falls > LA (yep, really) What job growth and income trends reveal about market timing Where Millennials and Gen Z are moving with intention How political policies shape profitability What AI means for real estate, jobs, and future-proof investing 💡 Notable Takeaway: Artificial intelligence is mankind’s greatest achievement and its greatest threat. 👤 About Our Guest: Neal Bawa blends tech, data science, and real estate to help investors find cash flow where others see risk. He’s the founder of Multifamily University, known for its zero-hype webinars and the Location Magic model used by over 75,000 investors. 🔗 Links + Stuff 🔔 Enjoyed the episode? Subscribe so you don’t miss future conversations on business growth, funding, strategy, and the stuff most people don’t explain clearly. If this episode helped, a quick rating or review goes a long way. It helps the show reach more business owners who actually care about getting this right. 🎧 Listen or watch The Liquid Lunch Project Available on all major podcast and video platforms: • Official site: • Apple Podcasts: • Spotify: • Audible: • YouTube (full episodes + clips): 📬 Want more than just the podcast? Every Friday, we publish The Weekly. A fast, smart rundown of what actually matters in finance, tech, small business, and the economy...without the noise. Subscribe here: 👉 💼 Need funding or working capital? If today’s conversation raised questions about capital, cash flow, or financing options, you can schedule a conversation with our sponsor, Credit Banc. Credit Banc helps business owners make sense of their options and move forward with a clear plan, without pressure or guesswork. 👉 Book a free 15-minute call here: 📲 Connect with the hosts Follow along for behind-the-scenes clips, commentary, and things that don’t make it into the episode. • Matt Meehan: • Luigi Rosabianca: • The Liquid Lunch Project: 💬 One last thing Know a business owner who would appreciate this conversation? Send them the episode. That’s how this show grows. /episode/index/show/shieldafterhours/id/39786000

Building Smarter Businesses with AI (Not Just Chatbots) 01/14/2026

Building Smarter Businesses with AI (Not Just Chatbots) Is AI going to save your business… or make you feel like you’re still stuck in the second inning? This week, we bring a real convo about AI (not the buzzword nonsense). Mark Andrews pulls back the curtain on what AI actually is, what most businesses get wrong, and how entrepreneurs can stop being overwhelmed and start using AI for real business growth without selling their souls (or wallets) to tech bros. 🍸 What you'll hear in this episode: AI isn’t some magic brain. It’s pattern prediction on steroids ChatGPT is just the tip of the iceberg Most companies screw up AI because they don’t know why they want it Bad data = bad results; cleaning data is where the real value starts You don’t need a $2M custom AI. You need direction and purpose Early adopters will crush competitors while skeptics get left eating dust AI fatigue is real — but smart use = more time, more focus, more revenue 💡 Notable Takeaway: There is a test and learn and trial mentality… and you need to leave your comfort zone. 👤 About our Guest: Mark builds AI that humans can actually use. He’s helped big companies and scrappy startups turn confusing tech into clear business results. From baseball analogies to real-world workflows, he breaks AI down in a way that makes you say, “Okay, now I get it.” 🎧 Why Listen: You want a business that wins tomorrow? Hit play. This episode gives you a clear-eyed look at what AI really does and how to make it work for your team. 🔗 Links + Stuff LinkedIn: Instagram: 📞 Want help prepping your business for growth or sale? Hit us up at 🎧 Subscribe. Rate. Share. Repeat. 📧 Want even more? Subscribe to The Weekly, our Friday morning newsletter, for all the latest in the world of finance, tech, small business, and more. Available on Substack: Connect with us on Instagram: ➡️ ➡️ , ➡️ /episode/index/show/shieldafterhours/id/39648355

The Liquid Lunch Project

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