Stress and cash flow headaches don’t have to be part of running your business. In this episode, I’m joined by Brad Herda from Vision Forward Business Solutions to talk about real-world profit strategies that keep money in your pocket and build a sustainable business. Brad and I swapped stories about growing up, stretching every nickel, and how those same principles apply when you’re running a company today. We even dug into surprising leaks, like misclassified worker’s comp policies that quietly drain thousands — the exact kind of spot where Sneaky Leaky loves to hide. You’ll also hear how fresh ideas from younger employees can drive smarter systems and real savings. Tune in for practical takeaways you can use right away to strengthen your business and your paycheck.
What You’ll Learn…
- Why the envelope system still works for business cash flow today
- The one simple change that can save thousands on workman’s comp
- How profit strategies protect you when the unexpected happens
- Why paying yourself first is key to a sustainable business
- How to practice payroll before you hire a new team member
- The surprising cost of a mis-hire and how to avoid it
- Leveraging youth and technology to build a stronger profit strategy
Key Moments…
[0:45] Childhood lessons that shaped Brad’s approach to money
[6:15] Why Profit First feels like the envelope system for business
[12:40] Hidden dangers of running personal life through your business
[19:25] Trucks, taxes, and the myth of spending to save on taxes
[29:00] Workman’s comp misclassifications and how $70K was saved
[42:30] Hiring slow, practicing payroll, and protecting against mis-hires
[55:20] How youth and technology can fuel new profit strategies
Childhood lessons that shaped Brad’s approach to money
Brad shared how he started with the envelope system as a kid, saving nickels for his bike and other wants. That same principle applies today in your business — putting money into “envelopes” before it disappears. These small, disciplined profit strategies build habits that last. They may not feel flashy, but they’re what keep your business stable and your paycheck consistent.
Why Profit First feels like the envelope system for business
Profit First takes that envelope mindset and applies it to every dollar in your company. Instead of waiting to see what’s left at the end of the month, you set aside money for taxes, payroll, and profit right away. These profit strategies make sure you get paid and avoid the stress of wondering if there will be scraps left over.
Hidden dangers of running personal life through your business
Many owners think of the business checkbook as their personal wallet, but that’s a setup for stress. When the IRS comes calling, or when you’re preparing to sell, that lack of separation can cost you dearly. Clear systems and disciplined profit strategies keep your business clean and your stress low.
Trucks, taxes, and the myth of spending to save on taxes
We talked about the temptation to buy equipment just to lower taxes. That decision can create more overhead than it saves. Smart profit strategies mean only buying when your business truly needs it, not just when your accountant waves a shiny tax deduction in front of you.
Workman’s comp misclassifications and how $70K was saved
Brad shared how correcting misclassified employees saved two companies about $70,000 in cash. Double-checking classifications is one of those profit strategies that can pay off big with minimal effort.
Hiring slow, practicing payroll, and protecting against mis-hires
Hiring the wrong person can cost four to five times their salary. Practicing payroll before hiring lets you test if your business can afford the new role. These profit strategies give you confidence when adding staff, and they keep you from rushing into costly mistakes.
How youth and technology can fuel new profit strategies
Younger team members often see solutions owners overlook. From CRM tools to virtual visits, they can introduce technology that saves time and money. Instead of dismissing them, consider how these fresh perspectives can drive new profit strategies and move your business forward.
About Brad
Brad Herda is a blue-collar leadership expert, keynote speaker, and co-host of the Blue-Collar BS Podcast. He’s the founder of Vision Forward Business Solutions and has worked with companies managing over 1,000,000 outsourced man-hours. A passionate mentor of Gen Z talent through FIRST Robotics, Brad blends street-smart wisdom with strategic leadership insight. His signature talk, We Grew Up Different, equips leaders with the mindset and tools to build trust, retain talent, and lead across generations.
Connect with Brad
Profit First by Mike Michalowicz
Social Links
Diane’s Resources:
Profit Impact Call: https://taxcoach4you.com/profitimpactcall
Profit First Method: https://taxcoach4you.com/profit-first
15 Profit Leaks eBook: https://profitcoach4you.com/profitleaks
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