Business · May 11, 2021

To make certain that your business—and the income it generates for your family—would continue to run smoothly when something happens to you, you need to create a comprehensive estate plan, and it really needs to include a trust. Without such a plan in place, your business will be stuck in an unnecessary court process that could easily cause the loss of everything you’ve worked so hard to build.

Business · May 04, 2021

Going into business with your spouse or romantic partner can be an amazing opportunity—but it can just as easily be an absolute nightmare if not handled properly. Regardless of how amazing your love life may be, there's no guarantee you'll be equally compatible in a working relationship. It can potentially wreck both your business and marriage if things don't work out. Make sure to clarify the potential problems, risks, and benefits before jumping into business together.

Estate Planning · April 30, 2021

Nearly three years have passed since Aretha Franklin, known as the “Queen of Soul,” whose earnings are worth $80 million, died from pancreatic cancer at age 76. Yet, due to poor estate planning, her children have yet to see a dime of their inheritance, and what they ultimately receive will be significantly depleted by back taxes. Also, it’s still not clear whether or not Aretha ever had a valid will. Her story shows how destructive poor estate planning can be for the loved ones we leave behind.

Business · April 13, 2021

You don’t want to launch a nonprofit just to avoid the “business” aspects of running a business. You should form a nonprofit because you are passionate about its mission and want to benefit your community through your organization. That said, if your nonprofit is going to succeed, you’ll still need a head for business, and access to the proper legal, insurance, financial, and tax (LIFT) systems, which form the foundation of any successful company.

Business · April 06, 2021

Starting a nonprofit organization can be a great way to give back to your community while working for a cause you are passionate about. That said, if you are starting a nonprofit simply to avoid some of the more unsavory aspects of running a business, you should seriously reconsider. When running a nonprofit, you’ll be working in service to your mission rather than in service to yourself or to the other owners of your business—and that’s because there are no “owners” of nonprofits!