Episode 9: Financial Planning: The Growth Multiplier for Small Businesses With Guests Denise Hanlon and Jane Watkins
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Shownotes
Episode Overview
In Episode 9 of Our Readiness Lens, Sheri is joined by two experienced tax professionals, Denise Hanlon (Hanlon CPA) and Jane Watkins (Tax Time Services), for a powerful conversation about strategic planning beyond the walls of your business.
While Sheri’s firm works deeply inside operations—accounting, advisory, payroll, and performance—the truth is your business is only one slice of your financial world. Retirement, estate planning, ownership structure, legacy goals, tax strategy, and risk management all intersect with operational decisions.
This episode explores why business owners must move beyond siloed conversations and instead build a coordinated advisory “village” that works together to protect, grow, and future-proof the business.
Key Takeaways
Your business is only one part of your financial picture.
Siloed advisors increase risk and missed opportunities.
Entity structure and tax strategy must evolve as you grow.
Estimated tax planning requires operational follow-through.
Estate and succession planning cannot wait for a crisis.
Strategic planning works best when advisors collaborate.
Timestamps
00:43 – Introduction to strategic planning as a growth multiplier
02:00 – Why business owners need to think beyond the 12-month cycle
05:00 – The risks of ignoring entity structure and long-term planning
07:45 – Why tax conversations feel overwhelming for clients
09:30 – Real-life planning mistakes and unintended tax consequences
12:00 – Estimated tax payments and operational follow-through
14:00 – The “village” or advisory team concept
18:45 – Why size doesn’t matter—small businesses need planning too
23:30 – Estate planning and probate horror stories
27:00 – Crisis planning vs proactive planning
31:00 – The importance of defining your end goal early
35:00 – Why strategic coordination protects against business killers
36:00 – First steps: Start small, start somewhere
Mentioned Resources
R Accounting Group — Advisory support, resources, and systems for business owners ready to scale with intention.
Podcast: Subscribe to R Readiness Lens
Episode Guide: Click Here
Connect with Sheri on LinkedIn
Connect with Denise Hanlon on LinkedIn
Connect with Jane Watkins on LinkedIn
What is next
If this episode resonated with you, share it with a fellow business owner or client who’s ready to turn structure into strategy. And don’t forget to follow R Readiness Lens for more conversations on business readiness, clarity, and growth.
