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Matt Di Francesco

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Your Business Your LifeYour Business Your Life113. Revolutionizing Tech Support in the Collision Industry with Jason Bartanenechnicians are the heartbeat of the collision repair industry, but they’re often underserved when it comes to education, support, and long-term growth. As the demand for skilled labor rises, the need to invest in technician development has never been more urgent.In this episode, Matt Di Francesco talks with Jason Bartanen, founder of Collision ProAssist and veteran technical educator, about his mission to better support technicians through virtual training, live coaching, and real-time guidance. He shares his vision for a more connected, empowered technician community, and how the industry can step up to support its most vi...2025-07-3132 minYour Business Your LifeYour Business Your Life112. Exploring the Benefits and Complexities of ESOPs for Collision Shop Owners with Steven GoldenCollision shop owners exploring succession planning are hearing more about ESOPs—and for good reason. These employee stock ownership plans offer a unique way to create liquidity while keeping the business intact and rewarding the team that helped build it.In this episode, Matt Di Francesco sits down with Steven Golden, ESOP expert and managing director at CSG Partners, to break down what makes these plans so powerful. From Section 1042 tax rollovers to retaining a role in the business post-sale, Steven shares how ESOPs can support a smooth exit and a lasting legacy.Matt and St...2025-07-1032 minYour Business Your LifeYour Business Your Life111. Challenges and Solutions for Internal TransferInternal transfer of a business might seem like the ideal way to keep your legacy alive—but without a clear plan and the right guidance, things often fall apart.In this episode, Matt DiFrancesco explores one of the most overlooked — and often misunderstood — succession strategies: the internal transfer. Whether to family members or key employees, transferring your shop internally presents unique challenges. But with the right planning, it also offers the opportunity to preserve your legacy, take care of your people, and avoid the emotional and financial pitfalls that come with selling to a third party.Join...2025-05-2912 minYour Business Your LifeYour Business Your Life110. Beyond Wrenches: How ADAS and Advanced Systems Are Reshaping Auto Repair with Pam OakesRepair shop owners today face a new kind of complexity: how to keep up with rapidly advancing vehicle technology without falling behind in training, tools, or talent.As modern vehicles become “computers on wheels,” the pressure to repair them properly is growing. Systems like ADAS and interconnected sensors demand up-to-date knowledge and precise calibration—raising the stakes for every technician in the bay.Join Matt Di Francesco and Pam Oakes, SME Auto technical app engineering consultant $ business intelligence, as they explore what it takes to stay ahead in a high-tech repair world—and why elevating the indu...2025-05-1631 minYour Business Your LifeYour Business Your Life109. DIY Exit Planning: Why They FailDIY exit planning is a path many independent collision shop owners take—especially when they’re looking to sell to key employees or keep the transition “in-house.” But without the right structure and support, these plans often stall out or fall apart entirely, leaving owners frustrated and without the outcome they hoped for.In this episode, Matt DiFrancesco shares a real-life story of a shop owner who initially engaged with his process to sell the business to key employees—but ultimately decided to go it alone. Matt explains why these do-it-yourself exit plans rarely succeed and what shop owner...2025-05-0114 minYour Business Your LifeYour Business Your Life108. ESOPs Unpacked: A Smart Exit Strategy for Business Owners with Kelly FinnellBusiness owners planning their next chapter often face a tough decision: how to exit without compromising their legacy or selling to private equity.As baby boomers age out of ownership, many are turning to Employee Stock Ownership Plans (ESOPs) for their unique blend of liquidity, tax benefits, and cultural continuity. Yet, understanding the mechanics and long-term impact of an ESOP can feel overwhelming.Join Matt Di Francesco and Kelly Finnell, Premier ESOP Consultant and President at EFS ESOP Consultants, as they explore how ESOPs offer business owners a powerful way to exit on their terms—wh...2025-04-1733 minYour Business Your LifeYour Business Your Life107. Life After the Shop: Answering Key Questions From The Northeast ConferencePlanning for life after shop ownership is something many independent collision shop owners overlook—until they’re already in the process of selling. But without a clear vision, the transition can be overwhelming and leave former owners wondering, “What’s next?”In this episode, Matt DiFrancesco shares insights from the Northeast Conference, where he and Laura Gay led a discussion on preparing for life beyond the shop. They addressed common concerns from shop owners, including burnout, the challenges of third-party sales, and the uncertainty of what comes after stepping away from the business.Join Matt as he shar...2025-04-1012 minYour Business Your LifeYour Business Your Life106. Addressing the Talent Gap in Collision Repair with Brandon EckenrodeAttracting and retaining talent is a persistent challenge in the collision repair industry, and industry engagement plays a critical role in overcoming this issue.The struggle to find skilled technicians and support technical education programs leaves many shop owners feeling overwhelmed and unsure of how to bridge the workforce gap. Without a steady pipeline of trained professionals, the industry's future is at risk.Join Matt Di Francesco and Brandon Eckenrode, Executive Director of the Collision Repair Education Foundation (CREF), as they discuss the power of local industry involvement, offering practical strategies for shop owners to...2025-03-2024 minYour Business Your LifeYour Business Your Life105. The Power of Education: Helping Collision Shops Thrive with John ShoemakerManaging costs and staying profitable is a constant challenge for independent collision shop owners, and education plays a crucial role in overcoming these hurdles. In this episode, John Shoemaker shares his passion for helping shop owners educate themselves and their customers about the value of their services—ensuring they are properly compensated for their work.With years of experience in business development. John has helped many shops refine their processes and improve their bottom line. He understands the importance of accurate invoicing, validating costs, proper documentation, and building strong relationships with claims adjusters.Joi...2025-02-2039 minYour Business Your LifeYour Business Your Life104. Building the Future: Apprentice Programs and Mentorship in Collision Repair with Stan RussellAs we enter the new year, many repair shop owners are focused on setting growth and success goals; one challenge remains at the forefront: finding and retaining talent.  It’s an issue facing nearly everyone in the industry, which makes today’s guest, Stan Russell, the perfect person to kick off the year.  With decades of experience as a technician, educator, and mentor, Stan has made it his mission to develop solutions that benefit both shop owners and young technicians. His passion for cars has driven him to create impactful apprentice programs that teach essential skills...2025-01-0328 minYour Business Your LifeYour Business Your Life103. Structuring Business for Tax Efficiency and Succession Planning: Part 3 with Stuart SorkinWelcome to this third and final installment of our educational series on structuring business for tax efficiencies.  In the previous sessions, we covered the complexities of C Corporations, including their benefits, drawbacks, and scenarios where they might be appropriate. In this episode, Matt and Stuart Sorkin, a seasoned attorney, CPA, and founder of Business and Legal Advisors, LLC, focus on Buy-Sel Agreements highlighting their importance and addressing common misconceptions. This topic is especially beneficial for business owners working with partners, employees, or family members who are shareholders as they learn a few practical strategies to h...2024-12-1237 minYour Business Your LifeYour Business Your Life102. Structuring Business for Tax Efficiency and Succession Planning: Part 2 with Stuart SorkinWelcome back to part two of our special three-part educational series, where we continue exploring how business owners can optimize their structures for long-term success. While tax rates were covered in the previous episode, this conversation takes a closer look at other crucial factors that impact business owners, such as transfer strategies, control, and long-term financial planning. In this session, Matt is again joined by Stuart Sorkin, a seasoned attorney, CPA, and founder of Business and Legal Advisors, LLC, to dive deeper into the key differences between C Corps, S Corps, and LLCs. They also...2024-11-2738 minYour Business Your LifeYour Business Your Life101: Structuring Business for Tax Efficiency and Succession Planning: Part 1 with Stuart SorkinWelcome to a special three-part educational series designed to help business owners rethink their roles and structures for long-term success.  Many shop owners today, especially younger ones, aren’t ready to transition out entirely but want their businesses to thrive without being dependent on their day-to-day involvement.  This series will explore key strategies to achieve that goal, starting with how the right business structure can minimize tax liability, enhance transfer options, and allow owners to maintain control while stepping back operationally.  In this first session, Matt is joined by Stuart Sorkin, a seasoned attor...2024-11-2540 minYour Business Your LifeYour Business Your Life100. 100 Episodes Strong: A Journey of Impact and GratitudeWelcome to a very special episode of Your Business, Your Life!! Today, we’re celebrating an incredible milestone—our 100th episode!  Four and a half years ago, Matt Di Francesco launched this podcast with one goal: to help business owners align their lives and businesses to create generational wealth. In this episode, Matt reflects on the journey, sharing the lessons learned and the impact created along the way. He expresses heartfelt gratitude to everyone who made this milestone possible.  He also outlines his plans to continue delivering value through the podcast, including exciting new in...2024-11-2113 minYour Business Your LifeYour Business Your Life99. How ESG Principles Can Drive Value for Your Collision Repair Shop with Eddie HightowerTo exit your business on your own terms and fund your ideal post-business life, increasing its value is essential. One powerful way to achieve this is by adopting Environmental, Social, and Governance (ESG) practices. Unfortunately, many collision shop owners are unaware of how ESG practices can significantly impact their business's value, leading to missed opportunities for growth, profitability, and a stronger market position. Join Matt DiFrancesco and Eddie Hightower, Senior Vice President of Sustainability and Social Responsibility at Caliber Collision, as they dive into how Environmental, Social, and Governance (ESG) practices can drive...2024-11-0828 minYour Business Your LifeYour Business Your Life98. The Collision Industry’s Hotbed for Buyers: What’s Driving the Boom? with Laura GayThe collision repair industry is growing quickly, with more private equity and buyers showing interest. This creates a great opportunity for shop owners to take advantage of the booming market. However, selling a shop can be complicated, and owners who focus on increasing their shop's value and getting professional help will have the best chance to maximize their profits. Join Matt DiFrancesco and Laura Gay, Owner and Consultant at Consolidation Coach, as they discuss the rising demand for consolidation in the collision industry, the importance of professional guidance in sales to maximize returns, and their...2024-10-0433 minYour Business Your LifeYour Business Your Life97. Automation in Action: Boosting Efficiency and Reducing Backlogs in the Collision Industry with Phillip BrownMany collision shop owners struggle with managing project backlogs and inefficiencies due to outdated or disjointed software systems, leading to delays, increased manual workloads, and difficulty in tracking key tasks.  These issues not only slow down operations but also prevent shops from maximizing their productivity and retaining top talent.  Join Matt DiFrancesco and Phillip Brown, Principal Consultant / President at Blu Pitt Inc., as they discuss the importance of streamlining processes and the benefits of automation in the collision industry. Matt and Phillip also talk about: (02:12) What led Phillip to help businesses st...2024-09-2030 minYour Business Your LifeYour Business Your Life96. Building the Future: Talent, Technology, and Training in the Automotive Industry with Diane BentingFinding skilled talent in the collision repair industry has become increasingly difficult due to a shortage of experienced technicians and a lack of new entrants into the field.  As the industry evolves with advancements in technology and repair techniques, shops struggle to attract candidates who possess both the technical skills and adaptability needed for modern repairs.  Join Matt DiFrancesco and Diane Benting, President at BodyShopJobs, as they discuss the challenges and solutions for the collision repair industry, particularly in finding and retaining talent.  Matt and...2024-09-0618 minYour Business Your LifeYour Business Your Life95. WreckWeek Session Part 3: Key Strategies to Help Build Your Business ValueCollision shop owners, are you truly maximizing the value of your business?  Matt Di Francesco dives deep into this question. He shares eye-opening anecdotes on how simple actions, like answering the phone with empathy or regularly updating customers, can make a significant impact.  Whether it’s improving communication, enhancing digital marketing efforts, or planning for employee retention, Matt provides actionable insights to help shop owners build a thriving business. In this episode, we're wrapping up a special three-part series recorded live at the Wreck Week conference last June. Join Matt as he concludes this...2024-08-2331 minYour Business Your LifeYour Business Your Life94. WreckWeek Session Part 2: The 3-Step Process to Build Value in Your Business Have you ever wondered how to truly build and enhance the value of your collision shop? Building your business's value can be a complex process due to various factors. It involves understanding and adapting to market dynamics, managing finances effectively, streamlining operations, maintaining customer satisfaction and so much more.  Fortunately, with the right strategies and tools, you can simplify these complexities and maximize your business's value, paving the way for a successful exit. At the Wreck Week Conference last June, Matt DiFrancesco broke down this complex process into a three-step journey f...2024-08-1026 minYour Business Your LifeYour Business Your Life93. Strengthening Family Businesses Through Leadership with Pete WalshAre you a business owner struggling to balance the demands of family dynamics with achieving business success? The majority of businesses are family-owned or operated. Often, multiple family members are involved in running these businesses, leading to unique and interesting dynamics. Understanding these dynamics is crucial for business owners to strengthen the business, rebuild leadership, and boost productivity within their companies. Join Matt DiFrancesco and Pete Walsh, Family Business Advisor & Master Coach, as they discuss the challenges that family businesses face and share personal stories of navigating conflicts, setting expectations, and developing leadership...2024-07-2639 minYour Business Your LifeYour Business Your Life92. WreckWeek Session Part 1: Building Value In Your ShopLast June, WreckWeek 2024 brought together professionals from road clearance, collision repair, and auto repair for a comprehensive expo where attendees could network, participate in workshops, and explore the latest advancements and technologies in accident management and vehicle repair. Matt DiFrancesco was invited to host an educational session at this event. In it, he emphasizes the importance of strategic planning for collision shop owners to enhance their business value and ensure a smooth and profitable exit when the time comes. Join Matt in the first of this three-part series, where he talks about the importance of...2024-07-1222 minYour Business Your LifeYour Business Your Life91. Connecting Business Success with Personal Well-Being with Luci GabelHave you ever considered how your physical, emotional, and mental health impact your leadership abilities and business success? When we talk about leadership, we often think of styles and techniques, rarely considering how our overall well-being ties into our effectiveness.  But what most people don't realize is that the health of the leader, the team, and the business are deeply interconnected. The decisions you make as a leader not only determine your company's success but also impact the well-being of your team and your own health, right down to your DNA. Join Matt D...2024-06-2729 minYour Business Your LifeYour Business Your Life90. Empowering Independent Shops in a Consolidated Market with John Hollingsworth and Kristle BollansAre you feeling the pressure of consolidation in the collision repair industry?  In these challenging times, independent shop owners face mounting fears as larger franchises and MSOs dominate the market.  For those who want to maintain their independence and identity while gaining the perks of a larger franchise model, joining a supportive network can provide a much-needed lifeline. Join Matt DiFrancesco with guests, John Hollingsworth and Kristle Bollans from CSN Collision as they discuss the challenges faced by independent shops today and how joining a supportive network can empower them to gain a co...2024-06-1334 minYour Business Your LifeYour Business Your Life89. Planning Ahead: Identifying and Cultivating Successors in Collision ShopsCollision shop owners need to plan their exit strategy early. One crucial part is choosing who to entrust the business to once they leave it. Often, shop owners need to learn or underestimate the potential of key employees to fill this role and would instead lean towards a third-party sale. However, if they only take a closer look, whether it’s a family member or a trusted employee, these people can do the job just as well. In this episode, Matt talks about identifying su...2024-05-0310 minYour Business Your LifeYour Business Your Life88. Aligning Spouses in Business Transition PlanningHave you ever considered how the dynamics between spouses can influence the success of a family business?  Whether directly involved or not, understanding each spouse’s impact on the business is crucial for harmony and prosperity. In this episode, Matt DiFrancesco discusses the critical role of spousal involvement in business planning and transition. He also shares personal stories from his consulting experience, highlighting the benefits and challenges of aligning spouses in life and business. Matt also talks about: (01:20) How inclusive discussions can help resolve conflicts in family businesses  (03:15) The impa...2024-04-1909 minYour Business Your LifeYour Business Your Life87. Marketing Your Collision Repair Shops: Is It an Expense or an Investment? with Micki WoodsOne of the main marketing goals for businesses is to generate revenue by attracting customers and establishing a competitive advantage. Both of these are vital elements for collision repair businesses to succeed. Yet, for many collision repair shop owners, marketing often takes a backseat, seen more as an expense than a strategic investment. According to the 2021 BodyShop Business Industry Profile, more than half (55%) of collision repair shops spend less than $5,000 on marketing each year.  So the question remains: is marketing merely a cost to be minimized, or could it be the key to driving growth, p...2024-04-0534 minYour Business Your LifeYour Business Your Life86. Maximizing Collision Shop Value: Strategies for Employee Retention, Financial Planning, and Long-Term SuccessBuilding value for your collision repair business requires more than acquiring state-of-the-art equipment and cutting-edge technology.  A dedicated and skilled team of employees is one of the key elements that can set your collision shop apart.  And to thrive in the future, shop owners must focus on retaining these valuable team members. Also, there are personal considerations that every shop owner must consider when it comes to building value in their shop, such as having a business continuity plan. Fortunately, there are various financial vehicles available that yo...2024-03-1511 minYour Business Your LifeYour Business Your Life85. Elevate Your Collision Repair Business: Strategies for Growth and Peak Performance with Holly Jean JacksonEver experienced the frustration of putting in your best efforts only to feel like your collision repair business is falling short of its full potential?  Oftentimes, collision shop owners are unaware of various aspects that hinder their growth, resulting in missed opportunities for both themselves and their stakeholders – employees and customers alike. Join Matt Di Francesco and Holly Jean Jackson, Revenue and Peak Performance Consultant, as they discuss the strategies that collision shop owners often miss, addressing the pain points that might be holding their business back.  2024-03-0129 minYour Business Your LifeYour Business Your Life84. Crafting Your Personal Vision For Life Beyond BusinessTo have a seamless business transition, business owners must understand the intricacies of building value and strategic preparation in the business. However, one critical area that most business owners often overlook is developing a personal vision for life outside the business. A statistic from the Exit Planning Institute revealed that 76% of business owners regret selling their business a year after the sale. This statistic highlights the importance of envisioning a meaningful life after exiting the business. In this episode, Matt DiFrancesco discusses why developing...2024-02-0913 minYour Business Your LifeYour Business Your Life83. What Collision Shops Should Be Doing to Start The 2024 Financial Year Off RightAs we enter the new year, businesses need to reflect on past achievements and plan strategically for the future. And as shop owners embark on their journey, one crucial element they must consider is having a sound transition plan.  A significant challenge most shop owners face is balancing the demands of running their business. They get so busy with day-to-day operations that planning on how to leave the company someday often takes the back seat. When the time comes when they finally want to exit the business, they find t...2024-01-2511 minYour Business Your LifeYour Business Your Life81. Ethics in the Age of AI: Unraveling Misconceptions on Artificial Intelligence with Laura MillerArtificial Intelligence has opened up incredible possibilities in our daily lives. It has significantly impacted how we learn, conduct business, and navigate our routines, profoundly altering our world in ways we once thought impossible. But as they say, "too much of a good thing is bad," and this sentiment holds even in the realm of AI. While AI has the potential to be a helpful ally, relying on it too much could bring unexpected challenges and drawbacks. AI works best when used wisely and responsibly. By incorporating ethics into...2023-11-1737 minYour Business Your LifeYour Business Your Life80. Transform Your Life and Business Through Self-Awareness and Mental Fitness Part 2 with Charis SantillieHave you ever wondered why some of the most successful people, those who seem to have it all, still feel so lost despite their achievements? Many high achievers are trapped in a continuous cycle of striving for more without feeling content. So, how does one transform success into genuine fulfillment? In a world where the pursuit of success often takes center stage, it's essential to recognize that success alone does not guarantee fulfillment or happiness. Sometimes, we must go through self-discovery and growth to find a more meaningful and...2023-10-1229 minYour Business Your LifeYour Business Your Life80. Transform Your Life and Business Through Self-Awareness and Mental Fitness Part 2 with Charis SantillieHave you ever wondered why some of the most successful people, those who seem to have it all, still feel so lost despite their achievements? Many high achievers are trapped in a continuous cycle of striving for more, without ever feeling contented. So, how does one transform success into genuine fulfillment? In a world where the pursuit of success often takes center stage, it's important to recognize that success alone does not guarantee fulfillment or happiness. Sometimes, we have to go through the journey of self-discovery and growth to...2023-10-0929 minYour Business Your LifeYour Business Your Life79. Transform Your Life and Business Through Self-Awareness and Mental Fitness with Charis SantillieAs business owners, we often find ourselves so engrossed in the daily grind that we forget to stop and ask the most crucial question: Are we truly living the life we want? While achieving professional success is undoubtedly essential, it's equally important to pause, reflect, and ensure that personal growth and mental fitness are not left behind. The truth is that self-awareness, finding space for what truly matters, and improving our mental fitness are essential components that can lead to lasting peace of mind and a more fulfilling life.2023-09-2132 minYour Business Your LifeYour Business Your Life78. Guiding Businesses From Transition to Transaction with Laurie BarkmanFor anyone who owns a business, the process of passing down a company from one owner to the next can be quite challenging. Without proper guidance and careful planning, it can be difficult to know where to start when considering how best to transition ownership and ensure profitable continuity for yourself and future owners.  Furthermore, understanding the pitfalls of succession planning and developing clear exit options before any transactions occur is essential in creating positive long-term outcomes for all parties involved.  Join Matt DiFrancesco an...2023-08-2428 minYour Business Your LifeYour Business Your Life77. Safeguarding the Future: What Collision Shops Need to Know About Business ContinuityIn today’s fast-paced and unpredictable world, businesses of all sizes face numerous challenges that can disrupt their operations. As a collision shop owner, unforeseen events such as natural disasters, economic downturns, and supply chain disruptions can severely impact your ability to provide services to your customers. Having a sound business continuity plan can help protect your hard work and provide peace of mind should anything happen or if you choose to leave the industry in the long term. In this episode, Matt DiFrancesco ta...2023-07-2824 minYour Business Your LifeYour Business Your Life76. Breaking Barriers: Women Making Waves in the Collision Repair Industry with Petra SchroederThe collision repair industry has long been a male-dominated space. And the stigma that women are not as strong or capable as men poses challenges for women who aspire to make their mark in it.  Fortunately, the number of females in the workforce is slowly increasing. And some female mentors have successfully navigated their way through the industry – proving that women can leverage their unique skill sets to demonstrate their value to the business. With patience, perseverance, and passion for their job, women can achieve great success and help break down barriers in the male-centric fie...2023-07-1331 minYour Business Your LifeYour Business Your Life75. The Perfect Time to Start Planning Your Business ExitAs a business owner, you have put countless hours, blood, sweat, and tears into growing your business. It has become a massive part of your life, with a significant financial and emotional investment.  However, as much as you love your business, you can’t stay in it forever. Because the reality is, at some point, you will need to exit, whether due to retirement, family reasons, or other unforeseen circumstances.  But with a solid plan in place, you could take advantage of potential opportunities to maximize the valu...2023-06-2924 minYour Business Your LifeYour Business Your Life74. Transform Your Business: Become ExtraordinaryBeing a body shop owner in the collision industry today is no easy feat. The market is vast, and the competition is fierce. That is why settling just to be good or average is not enough. To truly stand out and be extraordinary, businesses must focus on how they are treating their customers, what kind of culture they are creating in their workplace, and how they are incorporating the latest technology to stay ahead in the game. Join Matt DiFrancesco and Mike Anderson, President...2023-05-1137 minYour Business Your LifeYour Business Your Life72. Finding Life After Business with Larry DraganA smart and effective transition plan for a family business is critical for its future and should be taken seriously. That is why getting the necessary help from professionals is important for anyone who is thinking about transitioning their family business to the next generation. Because a well-thought-out transition plan is not just about preserving what has been built over the years but also for business owners to find life after exiting their businesses. In today’s episode, Larry Dragan, CEO of Ultimate Unlimited, LL...2023-03-0926 minYour Business Your LifeYour Business Your Life70. Developing Strong Leaders with Bruce SchroncePeople are the power engines of business success and growth. That's why managing "people problems" should be seen as a necessary part of developing a successful business. What makes a strong leader is someone who understands the dynamics among people, can motivate and enable team members, define roles, look at external factors that may affect morale, and create activities to foster engagement and retention. Tune in to today’s episode, as Bruce Schronce, President and Founder of StrongLead, LLC. shares his insights on how developing great leaders fosters positive growth and promotes long-term success for bu...2023-02-0934 minYour Business Your LifeYour Business Your Life68. How to Level-Up Your Exit Planning Game with John Brown of BEI (Business Enterprise Institute, Inc.)I’ve been working with family businesses for the last 17 years.  And since then, I’ve developed relationships with business owners who became my personal clients. As I learned about the intricacies of the business and how important business continuity is for these owners, I’ve put together my own system in order for me to help them. Today, I’m sharing the interview I had on Why We Plan: A Podcast For Exit Planners and Business Owners with host and BEI Founder John Brown. I shared my story of how I got into Exit Planning...2023-01-1211 minYour Business Your LifeYour Business Your Life66. How to Prepare Your Family Business for the Fourth Quarter with Nicholas NiemannWhen it comes to family businesses, continuity is the key. And no one knows this better than the business owner who is looking to transition out of their business. Whether it's due to retirement, health concerns, or simply a desire to move on to something new, exiting a business can be complex and emotionally draining. Fortunately, there are a few things that business owners can do to help ensure a smooth transition. These are steps that business owners can take so that their family business can continue to thrive long after they've left it. 2022-12-1532 minYour Business Your LifeYour Business Your Life64. Which Business Structure is Right For You - S Corp or C Corp? with Stuart SorkinChoosing the right business structure can be overwhelming for most business owners. That’s mainly because not everyone has a background in accounting or tax law. And it’s no surprise that there is often some confusion about what S Corp and C Corp mean, their benefits and disadvantages, and what factors should be considered in choosing which one would work best. Join Matt DiFrancesco and Stuart Sorkin, Founding Member at The Business and Legal Advisors, as they discuss industry insights and the key differences between the two business structures to help entrepreneurs and collision shop...2022-11-1631 minYour Business Your LifeYour Business Your Life62. What Leadership in the Automotive Industry Looks Like With Dan RyanMany people who own automotive repair businesses started out as technicians. They may be excellent at repairing cars but they have no experience leading a team of people. As a result, they may not be aware of the various strategies that good leaders use to motivate and inspire their employees. And without proper guidance, business owners may quickly become overwhelmed by the challenges of running a successful operation. Join Matt DiFrancesco and Dan Ryan, Founder and Owner of Team Ryan Automotive, as they talk about Dan’s journey from an entry-level apprentice to st...2022-10-2034 minYour Business Your LifeYour Business Your Life60. What Collision Shop Owners Should Know About Employee Retention Credits (ERC) with Ray RothA lot of businesses all over the world have been hit hard by the pandemic and the collision industry is no exception. With a lot of us working from home, people were driving less and there has been a significant decrease in the number of car accidents. As a result, many shops were forced to lay off their workers and even close their doors. Fortunately, the Coronavirus Aid, Relief, and Economic Security Act (CARES) has provided some form of relief in the form of Employee Retention Credits (ERC).  The ERC is a tax credit that h...2022-09-2331 minYour Business Your LifeYour Business Your Life58. Understanding Threats to Collision Shops From an Insurance PerspectiveThreats come in many forms when you're a collision shop owner. There's the threat of competition, the threat of a struggling economy, and the ever-present threat of natural disasters. But one of the most important threats to businesses is the possibility that the owners may one day need to transition out of their roles. Whether it's due to retirement, illness, or simply a desire to move on to new projects, business owners need to have a plan in place for how their business will continue without them. That's where insurance comes in. A properly structured...2022-08-2626 minYour Business Your LifeYour Business Your Life57. Changing The Way Collision Shops Compete with Mike AndersonThe collision industry is facing a tech shortage. There are more retirements than new technicians entering the field. So what must collision shops do to attract new talents, stay in business, and remain competitive? In today’s world, the shops that can get the best people, have the best culture, and retain and reward people working for them, so they become loyal, are the shops that will dominate the future. Join Matt DiFrancesco and Mike Anderson, President - Owner at Collision Advice, as they talk about the challenges posed by the tech shortage the industry is...2022-08-1136 minYour Business Your LifeYour Business Your Life56. Finding Your Core Genius with Louie SharpSink or swim? These are the choices that most collision shop owners face as they deal with the changes that are happening in the industry today.  It’s either they learn how to swim with the tides to survive or they get frustrated, burned out, and decide to pack up and call it quits. It’s easier to leave the business when you’re not passionate about it. This is what happens to some family-owned businesses where members had to assume roles that do not fit their personality type. This is where your core genius plays a...2022-07-1437 minYour Business Your LifeYour Business Your Life55. Repairing the Repair Process with Tom BemillerMost people say there’s so much in the collision repair industry that’s broken. There’s the issue of insurance companies demanding to use after-market parts to reduce repair costs without considering how it would affect the consumer’s safety.  There are also concerns about the low enrollment rates at vo-tech schools causing a shortage of technicians coming in. Unfortunately, the collision repair business has become a crappy business to work in.  And as a result, the customer experience also suffers. This is what Tom Bemiller observed as he got into the industry.  Then he remember...2022-06-1436 minYour Business Your LifeYour Business Your Life54. Do You Know What Your Business is Worth? with Michelle Seiler-TuckerMany business owners have no idea what the value of their business is.  And when the time comes to sell their business, they base its price on how much they need to fund the next phase of their lives and not on what it's worth. Having your business evaluated regularly is just one of the vital components of a successful exit strategy. Because to map out the path to exiting rich, you need to visualize your destination, determine where your starting point is, and begin with the end in mind. In this bonus episode of Y...2022-05-2629 minYour Business Your LifeYour Business Your Life53. How to be Big Enough to Serve and Small Enough to Care with Jacob TilzerWhen collision shops get bigger, they tend to focus more on the quantity of repair jobs. This causes the service they provide customers to suffer. As profits become the priority, everything becomes transactional and sometimes customers aren’t treated as if their business matters.   These are some of the things that Jacob Tilzer noticed while he was working for the larger companies in the collision industry.  That’s why when he founded his own collision center, he wanted to provide the scale of an MSO (Multiple Shop Operators) but with the feel of a small independent shop in ter...2022-05-1334 minYour Business Your LifeYour Business Your Life52. How to Turn Customers into Repeat Clients Through Technology with John BurkhauserAutomotive repair is a highly competitive industry.  And with car technology advancing at an exponential rate, shop owners must be able to keep up in order to maintain a profitable business.    And one way to keep up is to make body shops go digital.  Shop owners should look at their processes and find areas they can work on to improve not only the shop’s overall function but to strengthen customer relationships as well.   Going digital can be an overwhelming process for most body shops, yet it is now becoming a necessity in making auto repair...2022-04-2230 minYour Business Your LifeYour Business Your Life51. Getting the Best Bang For Your Buck Through Marketing With Micki WoodsFor a lot of business owners, especially in the collision industry, “marketing” is a dirty word. It’s an added expense that most small shop owners consider a luxury.  Yet nowadays, having a marketing strategy has become a necessity and is considered one of the most important key components to running a successful business.    And as the industry continues to evolve at a rapid pace, shop owners need to understand how they want to progress their businesses, and how to utilize marketing to help them create a family legacy and generational wealth.    Join Matt DiFrancesco and Micki W...2022-04-0639 minYour Business Your LifeYour Business Your Life50. The Challenges of Being a Pro-Consumer Guy with Clay HoberechtDisputes between insurance companies and collision repair shops are not uncommon. From errors with estimates, repairing parts vs. replacing parts, to choosing the right type of replacement parts to be used. Unfortunately, a lot of shop owners think that they need to agree with whatever the insurance agents say because otherwise, they will lose business. But who is it that the body shops really work for?  Is it the insurance companies who will keep cars running through their shops? Or should they be, first and foremost, looking out for the car owner’s best interest? ...2022-03-0339 minYour Business Your LifeYour Business Your Life49. Identifying Who You Are vs. What You Do with Mitch RussoFor collision shop owners who spend years getting too involved in running their business, there often comes a time when they find themselves having no idea which direction to take moving forward. And they realize they don’t have a clear vision of what they want their business to become in the future. It doesn’t matter which industry we’re in, all businesses have common goals.  One of these goals is to be able to sustain the family and make enough money to support a great life. And the way to get there is pretty straightforward.  We just...2022-02-2334 minYour Business Your LifeYour Business Your Life48. How to Build a Community Around Your Brand with Jeff GargasMany shop owners are great technicians yet most struggle with the “entrepreneurial” side of their business.  Terms such as “building a brand” or “brand awareness” often sound foreign to them. So what does “branding” mean? How important is it to build a brand and a community along with it? And how will it help your business grow and survive the changes that are happening in the industry? Join Matt DiFrancesco and Jeff Gargas, COO and Co-Founder of Teach Better Team, as they discuss why building a strong brand and a strong community goes hand in hand, and how sma...2022-02-1635 minYour Business Your LifeYour Business Your Life47. Valuable Insights From an Industry Disruptor with Frank TerlepThe auto repair industry is facing several disruptive trends nowadays.  With the rapid advances in automotive technology, the challenges it presents are poised to transform the industry for years to come. What must an auto repair shop owner do if they want to ensure that their business survives and thrive in the future? Join Matt DiFrancesco and Frank Terlep, CEO of Auto Techcelerators, LLC., as they share their thoughts on the ever-changing needs of the auto repair industry and Frank’s insights, as a disruptor himself, on how collision shop owners should deal with these dis...2022-02-0935 minYour Business Your LifeYour Business Your Life46. Guiding Businesses Through a Seamless Exit with Laura GayBusiness owners should be able to enjoy the full benefits of the business that they’ve built.  And that includes the life that they plan to live once they decide to sell shop or exit the business. Yet, strategizing how to sell a business can be an overwhelming task. And without fully understanding what their business is worth, most collision shop owners end up feeling lost.   That is why many shop owners today are in desperate need of trusted help and guidance with the process of selling their shop. Join Matt DiFrancesco and Laura Gay, Owner...2022-02-0235 minYour Business Your LifeYour Business Your Life45. Fighting the Battle Against Misinformation with Barrett SmithThey say most auto repair shops have been stuck in a rut for far too long. They’ve been fed the information that the insurance industry wants to feed them.  Sadly, this situation still goes on today.  And with all the misinformation that the collision industry has to deal with, some shop owners have resorted to less than ethical methods just to survive. Collision shop owners should start acting as the customer’s advocate and it is their duty to inform their customers what is best for them.  And as automobile technology continues to evolve, it is their r...2022-01-2633 minYour Business Your LifeYour Business Your Life44. 3 Things Business Owners Should Be Thinking About at the Start of 2022Hello everyone, welcome to Your Business, Your Life and I hope you’re off to an awesome start this 2022. January, being the first month of the new year, is a good time to re-evaluate and re-assess the things that are going on in our lives and in our businesses as well. And as we start putting plans in place to accomplish the things we want to achieve this year and the years to come, I thought this is also the perfect time to share 3 areas that every business owner, especially collision shop owners, should look at the st...2022-01-1812 minYour Business Your LifeYour Business Your Life43. Will Independent Collision Shops Thrive in the Future? with Bob MillerA lot of collision shop owners are excellent technicians.  However, most of them are less skilled as business owners.  And while there are a lot of resources when it comes to the technical side, there aren’t as many resources for the entrepreneurial side of the business. As the automotive repair industry changes rapidly, with the emergence of hybrid and electric, more sophisticated, modern cars, how can the independent collision repair shop owner ensure that his business survives and thrives well into the future? Join Matt DiFrancesco and Bob Miller, Independent Automotive Trainer at Train Them...2022-01-1128 minYour Business Your LifeYour Business Your Life42. Creating Extraordinary Transformations Through Journaling with Kim AdesLike most beginnings, the new year brings hope and opportunities to make things better.  That is why this is the perfect time people make resolutions and plans for the rest of the year. Yet sometimes, no matter how much effort we put into goal planning, it’s often the execution part that most people struggle with and ultimately fail at.  And what keeps us from making our plans happen usually stems from our own minds. In this episode, join Matt DiFrancesco and Kim Ades, President and CEO of Frame of Mind Coaching and The Journal That...2022-01-0631 minYour Business Your LifeYour Business Your Life41. Turning Frustrations into Freedom with Pete MohrIf you were asked the question: Why did you build your own business in the first place? What would your answer be? A common response would be to enjoy the freedom and flexibility of being an entrepreneur. Yet, as the business grows, many business owners spend more time working and have less time for family, relaxation, and personal growth. In this episode, join Matt DiFrancesco and Pete Mohr, a Certified Business Coach, Entrepreneurial Speaker, and host of the Simplifying Entrepreneurship podcast, as they talk about why business owners should focus more on working ON their...2021-12-2335 minYour Business Your LifeYour Business Your Life40. Dealing with Mental Health in the Family Business with Michelle E. DickinsonThe pandemic has undeniably changed our lives on so many levels.  Aside from its devastating effects on global health and the economy, it has taken an enormous toll on people’s mental health as well. A lot of family business owners today deal with mental health issues.  Unfortunately, most of them choose to ignore it because they’re not really equipped to deal with it, or worse, some don’t even recognize what it is. In this episode, join Matt DiFrancesco and Michelle E. Dickinson, a Workplace Mental Health Strategist & Consultant, and TEDx speaker, as they tal...2021-12-0932 minYour Business Your LifeYour Business Your Life39. Are Independent Collision Shops Equipped to Face the Future? with Jake RodenrothIn recent years, technological innovations in the automotive industry have revolutionized the way people drive.  Advanced systems like automatic braking and cruise control are now being integrated into modern vehicles with the goal of making driving easier, safer, and more convenient. However, ensuring that these systems work properly is no easy feat.  Few repair shops are actually equipped to do the calibrations needed to keep these modern vehicles up and running.  So how will small, independent repair shop owners keep up to speed in this rapidly changing industry? In this episode, join Matt DiFrancesco and Jak...2021-11-1835 minYour Business Your LifeYour Business Your Life38. How to Optimize Your Full Potential to Achieve a Prosperous Life with Dr. Jay LaGuardiaIt’s every business owner’s goal to achieve a life of prosperity. To some, being prosperous means not having to worry about the money to pay the bills.  For others, it’s having the time to enjoy life at their own leisure. Every person may have their own definition of the word.  But what does it mean to be truly prosperous? More than just financial wealth, prosperity should also be embodied in other key areas of your life: mental, physical, and spiritual. By optimizing your well-being in all these areas, you can achieve your full potential and as a...2021-11-1139 minYour Business Your LifeYour Business Your Life37. How to Build a Sellable Asset with Michelle Seiler TuckerOne of the biggest challenges for family businesses, especially in the automotive repair industry, is that when they look to transition their business and move to a different part of their life, they don’t have a plan in place for it.  And in most cases, these are the businesses that end up failing. Some family business owners intend to hand over the business to the next generation.  However, when the younger generation doesn’t want to take over the business, they are left with no choice but to sell it.  And without proper planning, most of these b...2021-10-2250 minYour Business Your LifeYour Business Your Life36. Overcoming the “I Can’t Compete” Mindset with Rick SeloverThe changes that the automotive repair industry is going through have made it very challenging for a lot of shop owners and technicians. The idea of going up against the big MSO’s (multi-shop operators) is making these business owners consider giving up and selling their shop. However, these are limiting beliefs and small repair shop owners still have some edge over their formidable competitors. This is why instead of having the “I can’t” mentality, it’s important to be in your right mind and transform your thinking to ensure your business’s success. In this epis...2021-10-0738 minYour Business Your LifeYour Business Your Life35. Seeing the Greater Vision Through an Outside Perspective with Aric JohnsonMore often than not, business owners get buried in the grind of things which can make it difficult to see what could go wrong. Unfortunately, they only realize what they’ve overlooked when the problems start to arise right in front of them. In this episode, join Matt DiFrancesco and Aric Johnson, President & CEO of AXIS Coaching and Consulting, Voice Talent at ProudMouth & Host of The Real F.B.I. Podcast, discuss how looking at a business from a unique perspective is crucial to a business’s success. Aric talks about: How Aric’s experi...2021-09-1828 minYour Business Your LifeYour Business Your Life34. Cross-Border Wealth Management With Jennifer PattersonHave you ever dreamed of packing up your family and heading across seas? Or maybe your work is already taking you there! Whatever the case, it is vital for you to understand what is going to happen with your finances when you make the move. In this episode, Matt DiFrancesco is joined with Jennifer Patterson, … Continue reading 34. Cross-Border Wealth Management With Jennifer Patterson →2021-06-1632 minYour Business Your LifeYour Business Your Life33. The Biggest Cost To Employers – Healthcare Plans With Kimberly VolkWhen it comes to costs to your business, healthcare plans can have some of the biggest impacts. You need to be sure that you are creating plans that are going to benefit your employees, while also making sense financially. In this episode, Matt DiFrancesco is joined with Kimberly Volk, small business consultant at The Health … Continue reading 33. The Biggest Cost To Employers – Healthcare Plans With Kimberly Volk →2021-06-0232 minYour Business Your LifeYour Business Your LifeEpisode 32 – The Purpose of Renewal TimeAs a business owner, it is not unlikely that your operations are always on your mind. It has been proven that taking a step away from what is happening in your business can actually help you come back and be more productive.  Today, Matt DiFrancesco discusses the importance of renewal time – taking time to … Continue reading Episode 32 – The Purpose of Renewal Time →2021-05-1925 minYour Business Your LifeYour Business Your LifeEpisode 31 – Why Might You Consider a Recruitment Firm? – with guests Stephanie and Duane RobertsAs a business owner, it can be tough to find the right candidates for an open position. Luckily, there are people out there who aim to assist you in combing through the unqualified candidates to find the perfect fit! Today, Matt DiFrancesco sits down with Stephanie and Duane Roberts, owners of Humans Being Resources, as … Continue reading Episode 31 – Why Might You Consider a Recruitment Firm? – with guests Stephanie and Duane Roberts →2021-05-0537 minYour Business Your LifeYour Business Your LifeEpisode 30 – Creating an Entrepreneurial MindsetMatt has had the opportunity to work with countless business owners, and has been able to recognize 4 main qualities that ensure their business success.  Today, Matt DiFrancesco discusses the qualities he sees in the business owners he works with that ensure their business runs smoothly. Matt takes the time to go into depth about … Continue reading Episode 30 – Creating an Entrepreneurial Mindset →2021-04-2125 minYour Business Your LifeYour Business Your LifeEpisode 29 – Why the Auto Repair Industry?You have heard about our rebrand, but why did we choose to target the niche of the auto repair industry?  Today, Matt DiFrancesco lets you in on the decision process to rebranding to High Lift Financial. Matt shares some of the issues that business owners in the auto industry face, and how High Lift Financial … Continue reading Episode 29 – Why the Auto Repair Industry? →2021-04-0731 minYour Business Your LifeYour Business Your LifeEpisode 28 – We Have Exciting NewsDiFrancesco Virtual Family Office is changing, and we want you to be the first to hear! Today, Matt DiFrancesco has some exciting news to share with you – DiFrancesco Virtual Family Office is getting a rebrand! Matt shares what this rebrand involves and what the changes mean for him and his clients!   In this episode, … Continue reading Episode 28 – We Have Exciting News →2021-03-1724 minYour Business Your LifeYour Business Your LifeEpisode 27 – Assisting You with Elderly Care Decisions – with Guest Eileen GrahamDeciding to move your parents or loved ones into assisted living can be tough, but when you have help from a professional, these decisions can be made easier.  Today, Matt DiFrancesco is joined with Eileen Graham, founder of EG Associates Group, as they discuss the work that EG Associates Group does to help families during … Continue reading Episode 27 – Assisting You with Elderly Care Decisions – with Guest Eileen Graham →2021-02-2436 minYour Business Your LifeYour Business Your LifeEpisode 26 – Our Three Step Review ProcessWhen you work with DiFrancesco Virtual Family Office, we want to be sure that you are always on track with your finances and financial goals.  Today, Matt DiFrancesco discusses the three step process that he goes through with clients to ensure that they are set up to meet their goals and address any problem areas. … Continue reading Episode 26 – Our Three Step Review Process →2021-02-1021 minYour Business Your LifeYour Business Your LifeEpisode 25 – Planning for Your Business and Family FutureWhen operating a business, do you know when it’s time to start succession planning? How do you know that everyone in your family is being taken care of properly? Today, Matt DiFrancesco is joined with Jim & Molly Creenan as they discuss the topic of what happens when it comes time to plan for the … Continue reading Episode 25 – Planning for Your Business and Family Future →2021-01-2728 minYour Business Your LifeYour Business Your LifeEpisode 23 – Why It’s Time To Prioritize Your Health – With Emily MahlerThis New Year, think about how you are going to take better care of yourself, because you deserve it! Today, Matt DiFrancesco joins Emily Mahler, founder of Wellness for Generations, LLC., to talk about how you can lead a healthier lifestyle, and overcome the common challenges that stop you from developing lasting changes! In this … Continue reading Episode 23 – Why It’s Time To Prioritize Your Health – With Emily Mahler →2020-12-3033 minYour Business Your LifeYour Business Your LifeEpisode 22 – Advanced Business Planning Strategies – with Guest Kate SeastoneA better financial business strategy can set your business, your employees, and your family up for a successful future.  In this episode, Matt DiFranceso is joined with guest Kate Seastone, as they uncover how business planning and business strategies can get you on the right path to reaching your goals toward retirement.  In this episode, … Continue reading Episode 22 – Advanced Business Planning Strategies – with Guest Kate Seastone →2020-12-1627 minYour Business Your LifeYour Business Your LifeEpisode 21 – A Guide To Developing Team Culture Within Your FamilyIn a family business, it is important to develop a team-oriented mindset in order to achieve success In this episode, Matt DiFranceso uncovers the importance of building family culture and team dynamic when it comes to running a successful family business. He illustrates a pyramid when guiding you through the process from bottom to top … Continue reading Episode 21 – A Guide To Developing Team Culture Within Your Family →2020-12-0228 minYour Business Your LifeYour Business Your LifeEpisode 20 – Women as Leaders in Business — With Guests Amy Bradley, Beth Walker and Britt Schroeder, Part 2Female entrepreneurs: are you looking for inspiration to start your own business?  In this episode, Matt DiFrancesco and guests Amy Bradley, Beth Walker and Britt Schroeder discuss the growing interests of younger generations to pursue entrepreneurial opportunities, as well as share several insightful statistics about the increasing participation of women in different industries. In this … Continue reading Episode 20 – Women as Leaders in Business — With Guests Amy Bradley, Beth Walker and Britt Schroeder, Part 2 →2020-11-1834 minYour Business Your LifeYour Business Your LifeEpisode 19 – Women as Leaders in Business — with Guests Amy Bradley, Beth Walker and Britt Schroeder, Part 1Historically, business has been a “man’s world” but women are making leaps and bounds to break the glass ceiling to become leaders and titans of business and industry.  In this episode, Matt DiFrancesco is joined by Amy Bradley, Beth Walker and Britt Schroeder, leading female entrepreneurs with experiences in various industries. They discuss several opportunities … Continue reading Episode 19 – Women as Leaders in Business — with Guests Amy Bradley, Beth Walker and Britt Schroeder, Part 1 →2020-11-0523 minYour Business Your LifeYour Business Your LifeEpisode 18 – How To Build a Successful Business PlanTake a minute to answer this question –  If retirement was not an option, how would your life and business be different?  In this episode, Matt DiFrancesco emphasizes the importance of creating a business plan as it will allow you to envision your goals for your business, and what you want out of life. He … Continue reading Episode 18 – How To Build a Successful Business Plan →2020-10-2127 minYour Business Your LifeYour Business Your LifeEpisode 17 – Overcoming the Challenges of Building a Family Business — With Ron DelanoHow do you manage a family owned business?  In this episode, Matt Di Francesco is joined with his good friend, and successful business owner Ron Delano of Ron’s Collision Center. Ron shares his story of how he got started, his struggles, and how he maintains healthy family dynamics in his family businesses. He also provides … Continue reading Episode 17 – Overcoming the Challenges of Building a Family Business — With Ron Delano →2020-10-0728 minYour Business Your LifeYour Business Your LifeEpisode 16 – Strategies for Year End PlanningIs there anything you need to do for your business before year end? In this podcast Matt DiFrancesco reviews the different avenues out there for business owners to tap into and some of the planning you should do before the end of the year. Matt also focuses on where you stand and how to develop … Continue reading Episode 16 – Strategies for Year End Planning →2020-09-2322 minYour Business Your LifeYour Business Your LifeEpisode‌ ‌15‌ ‌-‌ ‌Entering‌ ‌The‌ ‌Franchise‌ ‌World‌ ‌with‌ ‌Britt‌ ‌Schroeter‌ ‌Considering entering into a new business can be daunting, especially with new regulations due to COVID.  Matt DiFrancesco is joined by Britt Schroeter, a franchise consultant from FranChoice who is Widely accepted as one of the top franchise consultants in the United States.  Today, Britt shares her insight with those considering franchise ownership. She reveals … Continue reading Episode‌ ‌15‌ ‌-‌ ‌Entering‌ ‌The‌ ‌Franchise‌ ‌World‌ ‌with‌ ‌Britt‌ ‌Schroeter‌ ‌ →2020-09-0932 minYour Business Your LifeYour Business Your LifeEpisode 14 – Why Going 100% Virtual Gives Business Owners More Freedom and FlexibilityMany business owners have had to shift to a temporary virtual model during COVID-19.  Is it possible that switching permanently to a virtual office would allow you to serve clients while giving you the freedom and flexibility you’ve been wanting? In today’s episode, Matt DiFrancesco continues his lessons from the virtual office, diving into the … Continue reading Episode 14 – Why Going 100% Virtual Gives Business Owners More Freedom and Flexibility →2020-08-2629 minYour Business Your LifeYour Business Your LifeEpisode 13 – Continuing Education: Cash Hog Or Investment?Sending your child to college or university can be emotionally and financially difficult. It can also be a benefit. Matt DiFrancesco is joined by Beth Walker, founder of the Center For College Solutions. Beth shares her expertise in planning for college and the costs that come with it. Discover how to leverage different offers when … Continue reading Episode 13 – Continuing Education: Cash Hog Or Investment? →2020-08-1237 minYour Business Your LifeYour Business Your LifeEpisode 12- Lessons From A Virtual OfficeCOVID introduced the idea of working virtually to many forced to stay home. As the quarantine is lifted, some business owners are looking to continue online. Now, Matt DiFrancesco shares his insights about working virtually. He discusses the impact working online has on travel times, meeting times and the cost of working virtually. Discover tips … Continue reading Episode 12- Lessons From A Virtual Office →2020-07-1624 minYour Business Your LifeYour Business Your LifeEpisode 11- Ways to Pivot Your Pennsylvania Family Business During COVID-19 –– With Amy BradleyMany Pennsylvania businesses are adapting successfully during COVID-19. What ideas can you use to help your family business pivot and thrive? In this episode, Matt DiFrancesco is joined by Amy Bradley, the president and CEO of the Cambria Regional Chamber in Johnstown, Pennsylvania. Amy shares success stories about businesses in her region that have pivoted … Continue reading Episode 11- Ways to Pivot Your Pennsylvania Family Business During COVID-19 –– With Amy Bradley →2020-07-0132 minYour Business Your LifeYour Business Your LifeEpisode 10 – The Virtual “Office” of the PresentDuring the lockdown, many companies opted to have their employees work from home. But how will this affect the realities of the office moving forward after the pandemic? In this episode, Matt DiFrancesco discusses the impact of technology on workspaces outside of the office and reveals the revelations COVID-19 has uncovered about the benefits of … Continue reading Episode 10 – The Virtual “Office” of the Present →2020-06-2531 minYour Business Your LifeYour Business Your LifeEpisode 9 – Billiards in COVIDThe economic impact of COVID-19 has been wide and far-reaching. Many local businesses are feeling the strain of a decrease in leisurely spending.  In this episode of Your Business, Your Life, Matt DiFrancesco is joined by Dave Erb from West Penn Billiards and Fine Furniture, discussing the impact COVID-19 has had on his business. Dave … Continue reading Episode 9 – Billiards in COVID →2020-06-0327 minYour Business Your LifeYour Business Your LifeEpisode 8- How Businesses are Adapting During COVID-19Business owners are finding innovative ways to continue operating during the pandemic. In this episode, Matt DiFrancesco talks about businesses that have pivoted to survive and fulfill people’s immediate needs during COVID-19. This episode is filled with positive stories about innovation and expert advice on how to protect your business going forward. In this episode, … Continue reading Episode 8- How Businesses are Adapting During COVID-19 →2020-05-2032 minYour Business Your LifeYour Business Your LifeEpisode 5- Ready, aim, fire!Step one, create a vision of the future of your business. Step two, developed a plan that will help you reach that vision. In this episode, Matt DiFrancesco continues his discussion on the process of creating and developing a family business. Matt will talk about the different tools that can be used when aiming for … Continue reading Episode 5- Ready, aim, fire! →2020-04-0821 minYour Business Your LifeYour Business Your LifeEpisode 4 – Why Family Meetings are Important in Family BusinessYou have worked hard and your business is booming. But what happens after you leave? In this episode, Matt DiFrancesco discusses the importance of family meetings when planning the future of your business. Whether family members want a role or prefer to step back, Matt explains the crucial idea of keeping everyone on the same … Continue reading Episode 4 – Why Family Meetings are Important in Family Business →2020-03-2529 minYour Business Your LifeYour Business Your LifeEpisode 1 — Meet Your Host, Matt DiFrancescoWelcome to Your Business, Your Life Podcast! In this inaugural episode, you will meet Matt DiFrancesco of the DiFrancesco Virtual Family Office. Matt is the host of this new show that’s dedicated to helping you create a vision for your business, life, and family. Listen in as Matt shares his outlook on planning, who he … Continue reading Episode 1 — Meet Your Host, Matt DiFrancesco →2020-02-0531 min