BusinessEntrepreneurship

Things Entrepreneurs Should Know

Chip Schweiger

A business podcast for entrepreneurs, founders, and owners focused on building lasting value. This isn’t about tips or quick wins. It’s about how decisions get made, how businesses navigate complexity, and what tends to matter over time.

Each episode draws on real-world experience and conversations with thoughtful operators—people who have built, managed, and grown businesses firsthand.

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22 episodes
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English

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S5 · E52
Thursday · 10 min
The Cost of Saying Yes
Some of the most expensive decisions in a business begin with two words: “Sure, we can.” A custom request, an extra revision, or a project that doesn’t quite fit can seem reasonable on its own. But those commitments add up, taking time and attention away from more valuable work. In this episode, Chip Schweiger looks at why capable owners find it so hard to say no, how to spot the true cost of a yes, and what to do when an old commitment no longer serves the business. He also admits that this is a lesson he hasn’t always applied well in his own work. For show notes, past episodes, and more from Things Entrepreneurs Should Know, visit TESKPod.com. Want to continue the conversation? You can reach Chip directly at Chip@Schweiger.CPA Follow the show on Instagram at @teskpod. Things Entrepreneurs Should Know is provided for general informational and educational purposes only. Nothing in this podcast should be considered accounting, tax, legal, investment, or other professional advice.
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S5 · E51
September 17 · 10 min
You Probably Don’t Need More Revenue
Would more revenue make your business stronger? Or merely busier? When profits disappoint, or cash gets tight, the instinct is often to sell more. But growth can magnify weak pricing, thin margins, and working-capital demands just as easily as it can improve performance. In this episode, Chip Schweiger explores three different problems that often receive the same prescription: not enough revenue, inadequate margins, and profit that isn’t turning into cash. Before chasing more sales, it’s worth understanding which one your business actually has. Sometimes the next move isn’t more revenue. It’s making better money from the revenue you already have. For show notes, past episodes, and more from Things Entrepreneurs Should Know, visit TESKPod.com. Want to continue the conversation? You can reach Chip directly at Chip@Schweiger.CPA Follow the show on Instagram at @teskpod. Things Entrepreneurs Should Know is provided for general informational and educational purposes only. Nothing in this podcast should be considered accounting, tax, legal, investment, or other professional advice.
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S5 · E50
September 10 · 8 min
When the Business Has Outgrown the Owner
Sometimes the biggest constraint on a growing business is the person who built it. As companies grow, the habits that once made them fast and successful can start holding them back. Decisions still flow through the owner. Employees wait for approvals. Customer relationships depend on one person. And before long, the business can only move as quickly as the owner can. In this episode, Chip Schweiger looks at how owner dependency develops, why hiring more people doesn't necessarily solve it, and the important difference between being valuable to your business and being indispensable to it. Because eventually, building a stronger business means building one that needs you less. For show notes, past episodes, and more from Things Entrepreneurs Should Know, visit TESKPod.com. Want to continue the conversation? You can reach Chip directly at Chip@Schweiger.CPA Follow the show on Instagram at @teskpod. Things Entrepreneurs Should Know is provided for general informational and educational purposes only. Nothing in this podcast should be considered accounting, tax, legal, investment, or other professional advice.
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S5 · E49
September 3 · 15 min
Your Business May Be More Complicated Than It Needs to Be
It rarely happens all at once. A good customer asks for something special, a salesperson needs pricing flexibility, a manager wants their preferred vendor. And you say yes, because each decision makes sense in the moment. But string enough of those "yeses" together, and you end up with a business that's harder to run, more expensive to operate, and quietly less profitable than anyone realizes. In this episode of Things Entrepreneurs Should Know, explore where the hidden cost of complexity tends to show up: in averages that mask which customers and products actually drive profit, in the friction created by too many vendors and exceptions, and in the temptation to hire your way out of problems that shouldn't exist in the first place. We'll also dig into how growth can amplify dysfunction rather than fix it, and why owners often become the bottleneck in their own company. Simplifying isn't about shrinking your business. It's about making sure the complexity you carry actually earns its keep. For show notes, past episodes, and more from Things Entrepreneurs Should Know, visit TESKPod.com. Want to continue the conversation? You can reach Chip directly at Chip@Schweiger.CPA Follow the show on Instagram at @teskpod. Things Entrepreneurs Should Know is provided for general informational and educational purposes only. Nothing in this podcast should be considered accounting, tax, legal, investment, or other professional advice.
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S5 · E48
August 27 · 9 min
Your Best Customer May Be Your Biggest Risk
Your biggest customer may also be one of the biggest risks in your business. A large customer can bring steady revenue, better utilization, and growth opportunities. But over time, that relationship can quietly begin shaping your staffing, pricing, capital investments, cash flow, and even your ability to say no. In this episode of Things Entrepreneurs Should Know, Chip Schweiger looks beyond the usual customer-concentration percentages to a more important question: How dependent has your business become on the decisions of a single customer? You’ll hear why a highly valuable account isn’t necessarily a highly profitable one, how customer dependence changes negotiating leverage, and why the best time to reduce concentration risk is often when everything is going well. The goal isn’t to get rid of your best customers. It’s to build a business that can survive without any particular one of them. For show notes, past episodes, and more from Things Entrepreneurs Should Know, visit TESKPod.com. Want to continue the conversation? You can reach Chip directly at Chip@Schweiger.CPA Follow the show on Instagram at @teskpod. Things Entrepreneurs Should Know is provided for general informational and educational purposes only. Nothing in this podcast should be considered accounting, tax, legal, investment, or other professional advice.
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S4 · E47
Jul 2, 2025 · 7 min
Encore Presentation - Essential Tips to Overcome Stress and Burnout for Entrepreneurs
This week, enjoy an Encore presentation of one of the most popular episodes from the Things Entrepreneurs Should Know archives. Whether you’re tuning in for the first time or revisiting a classic, I hope you enjoy this timeless advice for business owners. I’ll be back next week with a brand new episode. Feeling the emotional whiplash of running your business? You're not alone. In this episode we deliver invaluable insights to help you conquer stress, tackle burnout, and overcome the fear of failure. From setting realistic goals to celebrating small victories, discover practical strategies to navigate the inevitable highs and lows of entrepreneurship. Join us as we explore the importance of self-care, boundary-setting, and task delegation to maintain balance and productivity. Learn how to reframe failure as a stepping stone rather than a setback, and implement actionable tips to build lasting confidence. Whether you're just starting or a seasoned veteran, this episode is packed with wisdom to help you thrive emotionally and financially in your entrepreneurial journey. For show notes, past episodes, and more from Things Entrepreneurs Should Know, visit TESKPod.com. Want to continue the conversation? You can reach Chip directly at Chip@Schweiger.CPA Follow the show on Instagram at @teskpod. Things Entrepreneurs Should Know is provided for general informational and educational purposes only. Nothing in this podcast should be considered accounting, tax, legal, investment, or other professional advice.
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S4 · E46
Jun 25, 2025 · 7 min
Navigating Business Cash Crunches: When Unsecured Lending Makes Sense
Cash flow crunch got you sweating? You’re not alone—and you’re not out of options. In this episode, Chip Schweiger cuts through the fluff and lays out exactly how unsecured lending can be a smart, strategic move for growth-minded business owners. Forget the stigma and scare tactics. Chip breaks down: Why even healthy businesses hit cash flow walls How unsecured lending works (and why it’s not just for the desperate) The right—and wrong—ways to use fast capital The must-know checklist before you borrow a dime Ready to take action? Click this link for access to up to $500,000 in unsecured lending—no collateral, no nonsense, just real solutions for real businesses. If you’re serious about keeping your business moving forward, you won’t want to miss this episode. For show notes, past episodes, and more from Things Entrepreneurs Should Know, visit TESKPod.com. Want to continue the conversation? You can reach Chip directly at Chip@Schweiger.CPA Follow the show on Instagram at @teskpod. Things Entrepreneurs Should Know is provided for general informational and educational purposes only. Nothing in this podcast should be considered accounting, tax, legal, investment, or other professional advice.
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S4 · E45
Jun 18, 2025 · 11 min
Profit Leaks: The Hidden Ways Small Businesses Bleed Money
You’re working hard, but is your business bank account bleeding out behind your back? In this episode, learn the hidden profit leaks draining small businesses, right under their owners’ noses. Forget the obvious expenses; we’re talking about the silent killers: forgotten subscriptions, unchecked scope creep, underpricing, and more. Chip reveals the five most common ways businesses lose money without realizing it, shares real-world stories, and gives you a no-nonsense checklist to stop the leaks for good. If you’re ready to keep more of what you earn and finally tighten up your bottom line, this episode is your wake-up call. Listen in, take action, and plug those leaks before they sink your ship. For show notes, past episodes, and more from Things Entrepreneurs Should Know, visit TESKPod.com. Want to continue the conversation? You can reach Chip directly at Chip@Schweiger.CPA Follow the show on Instagram at @teskpod. Things Entrepreneurs Should Know is provided for general informational and educational purposes only. Nothing in this podcast should be considered accounting, tax, legal, investment, or other professional advice.
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S4 · E44
Jun 11, 2025 · 8 min
How to Master Cash Flow: The Lifeblood of Small Businesses Success
Struggling to keep your business’s cash flow steady? You’re not alone. In this episode of Things Entrepreneurs Should Know, learn the essentials of cash flow management for small businesses—why it matters, the most common mistakes to avoid, and practical steps you can implement today to keep your business running smoothly. Plus, you'll get the top tips for forecasting, building a cash reserve, and using technology to make cash flow easier. Ready to take control of your business finances? Get 30% off six months of QuickBooks with [this link] For show notes, past episodes, and more from Things Entrepreneurs Should Know, visit TESKPod.com. Want to continue the conversation? You can reach Chip directly at Chip@Schweiger.CPA Follow the show on Instagram at @teskpod. Things Entrepreneurs Should Know is provided for general informational and educational purposes only. Nothing in this podcast should be considered accounting, tax, legal, investment, or other professional advice.
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S4 · E43
Jun 4, 2025 · 9 min
Tax Strategy Mistakes Entrepreneurs Make (And How to Avoid Them)
Taxes can be one of the biggest expenses for entrepreneurs, but most business owners make avoidable mistakes that cost them money and peace of mind. In this episode, learn the most common tax strategy pitfalls, how to avoid them, and actionable steps to help you keep more of what you earn. Whether you’re just starting out or looking to optimize your tax approach, this episode will help you take control of your tax strategy and grow your business with confidence. For show notes, past episodes, and more from Things Entrepreneurs Should Know, visit TESKPod.com. Want to continue the conversation? You can reach Chip directly at Chip@Schweiger.CPA Follow the show on Instagram at @teskpod. Things Entrepreneurs Should Know is provided for general informational and educational purposes only. Nothing in this podcast should be considered accounting, tax, legal, investment, or other professional advice.
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S4 · E42
May 28, 2025 · 9 min
Exit Planning: Start with the End in Mind
In this episode of Things Entrepreneurs Should Know, learn why every business owner needs an exit plan—long before they’re ready to leave. Learn about the most common exit strategies, key steps to maximize your business’s value, and the pitfalls to avoid. Whether you’re years away from stepping back or just starting to think about your future, this episode gives you practical, actionable advice to ensure you exit your business on your own terms. As discussed in this episode: Episode 40: Four Levels of Effective Delegation to Create a Self-Sustaining Business For show notes, past episodes, and more from Things Entrepreneurs Should Know, visit TESKPod.com. Want to continue the conversation? You can reach Chip directly at Chip@Schweiger.CPA Follow the show on Instagram at @teskpod. Things Entrepreneurs Should Know is provided for general informational and educational purposes only. Nothing in this podcast should be considered accounting, tax, legal, investment, or other professional advice.
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S3 · E41
Jul 31, 2024 · 7 min
Essential Tips to Overcome Stress and Burnout for Entrepreneurs
Feeling the emotional whiplash of running your business? You're not alone. In this episode we deliver invaluable insights to help you conquer stress, tackle burnout, and overcome the fear of failure. From setting realistic goals to celebrating small victories, discover practical strategies to navigate the inevitable highs and lows of entrepreneurship. Join us as we explore the importance of self-care, boundary-setting, and task delegation to maintain balance and productivity. Learn how to reframe failure as a stepping stone rather than a setback, and implement actionable tips to build lasting confidence. Whether you're just starting or a seasoned veteran, this episode is packed with wisdom to help you thrive emotionally and financially in your entrepreneurial journey. For show notes, past episodes, and more from Things Entrepreneurs Should Know, visit TESKPod.com. Want to continue the conversation? You can reach Chip directly at Chip@Schweiger.CPA Follow the show on Instagram at @teskpod. Things Entrepreneurs Should Know is provided for general informational and educational purposes only. Nothing in this podcast should be considered accounting, tax, legal, investment, or other professional advice.
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S3 · E40
Jul 24, 2024 · 15 min
Four Levels of Effective Delegation to Create a Self-Sustaining Business
Can your business truly thrive without you? Unlock the secrets to effective delegation and learn how to avoid common pitfalls like the hot potato delegator, the delegation hippie, and the false delegator. We’ll explore the importance of delegation in creating a self-sustaining business and introduce four impactful levels of delegation. From "follow my lead" where employees follow clear instructions, to "research and report" where they analyze options but you retain decision-making authority, you'll gain practical strategies to enhance delegation efficiency and scale your business. For show notes, past episodes, and more from Things Entrepreneurs Should Know, visit TESKPod.com. Want to continue the conversation? You can reach Chip directly at Chip@Schweiger.CPA Follow the show on Instagram at @teskpod. Things Entrepreneurs Should Know is provided for general informational and educational purposes only. Nothing in this podcast should be considered accounting, tax, legal, investment, or other professional advice.
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S3 · E39
Jul 17, 2024 · 7 min
The Power of 13-Week Cash Flow Projections and Why You Should Use Them
Ever found yourself in a cash crunch and wished you'd seen it coming? Learn how to take control of your business finances with a 13-week cash flow projection! In this episode, we break down the steps to create this powerful forecasting tool that helps you visualize your cash inflows and outflows. By anticipating periods of surplus or shortfall, you'll be ready to negotiate with suppliers, seek short-term financing, and make strategic decisions long before cash issues arise. We'll walk you through how to track expected cash receipts from sales, investments, and loans, as well as projected outflows for essential expenses like payroll and rent. With practical tips on using reliable historical data and weekly updates, you'll ensure you have enough cash to cover your obligations and manage working capital effectively. What to listen to next: Episode 22 - Why Cash Flow is So Important and How to Get It Episode 34 - Essential Accounts Receivable Strategies to Supercharge Your Business Cash Flow For show notes, past episodes, and more from Things Entrepreneurs Should Know, visit TESKPod.com. Want to continue the conversation? You can reach Chip directly at Chip@Schweiger.CPA Follow the show on Instagram at @teskpod. Things Entrepreneurs Should Know is provided for general informational and educational purposes only. Nothing in this podcast should be considered accounting, tax, legal, investment, or other professional advice.
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S3 · E38
Jul 10, 2024 · 10 min
Why Running Your Private Company Like a Public One Can Create Maximum Value
Small businesses often operate as if their sole purpose is to fund the owner’s lifestyle, but the most valuable companies are run with financial rigor. You may be years from wanting to sell, but starting to formalize your operations now will help you predict the future of your business. Then, when it does come time to sell, you’ll fetch more for what you’ve built because acquirers pay the most for companies when they are less risky. There’s nothing that gives a buyer more confidence than clean books and proper record keeping. In this episode we're diving into a fascinating topic that's often debated among business owners and that’s the idea of running a private company like a public company. We'll explore what this means, the potential benefits and challenges, and whether it's the right strategy for your business. And you'll hear how one business owner applied these principles to sell his business for a ton of money. What to listen to next: Episode 31 - Mastering Business Ownership: Ten Tips to Boost Your Company's Value For show notes, past episodes, and more from Things Entrepreneurs Should Know, visit TESKPod.com. Want to continue the conversation? You can reach Chip directly at Chip@Schweiger.CPA Follow the show on Instagram at @teskpod. Things Entrepreneurs Should Know is provided for general informational and educational purposes only. Nothing in this podcast should be considered accounting, tax, legal, investment, or other professional advice.
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S3 · E37
Jul 3, 2024 · 9 min
The Entrepreneur’s Guide to Mitigating Business Risks - 9 Strategies Revealed
Can your business withstand unexpected crises, or are you leaving it vulnerable to unforeseen threats? In this episode of Things Entrepreneurs Should Know, you'll learn essential risk mitigation strategies that every business owner needs in their toolkit. From identifying and assessing risks to creating robust risk management plans, we cover all the bases to help you safeguard your enterprise. We'll also delve into the importance of investing in various types of insurance and bolstering your cybersecurity measures through employee education and regular software updates. But that's not all—discover why diversifying your supply chain and implementing stringent financial controls are game-changers for protecting your business. Lastly, we underscore the significance of a well-prepared business continuity plan to ensure your operations remain steady even during crises. For show notes, past episodes, and more from Things Entrepreneurs Should Know, visit TESKPod.com. Want to continue the conversation? You can reach Chip directly at Chip@Schweiger.CPA Follow the show on Instagram at @teskpod. Things Entrepreneurs Should Know is provided for general informational and educational purposes only. Nothing in this podcast should be considered accounting, tax, legal, investment, or other professional advice.
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S3 · E36
Jun 26, 2024 · 9 min
Maintaining Limited Liability: Crucial Practices for Entrepreneurs
What if you could protect your hard-earned personal assets from business risks with just a few strategic moves? In this episode of the Things Entrepreneurs Should Know podcast, we discuss the essential steps to establish your business as a separate legal entity, ensuring your home, car, and retirement funds stay safe even in the face of lawsuits. We'll reveal why forming an LLC or corporation is a game-changer for entrepreneurs and break down seven crucial practices that maintain this protective barrier. From proper financial separation to adhering to your company's bylaws, these actionable tips will help you preserve the benefits of limited liability. For show notes, past episodes, and more from Things Entrepreneurs Should Know, visit TESKPod.com. Want to continue the conversation? You can reach Chip directly at Chip@Schweiger.CPA Follow the show on Instagram at @teskpod. Things Entrepreneurs Should Know is provided for general informational and educational purposes only. Nothing in this podcast should be considered accounting, tax, legal, investment, or other professional advice.
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S3 · E35
Jun 19, 2024 · 10 min
Your Complete Guide to Building Business Credit
Could understanding the difference between business and personal credit be the game-changer your business needs? In this episode of Things Entrepreneurs Should Know, I unravel the essential steps to building robust business credit. We kick things off by exploring why separating your business and personal finances is crucial, followed by practical advice on registering your business, opening a business bank account, and obtaining a DUNS number (get yours here). We’ll also dive into the importance of establishing trade references and securing vendor credit lines, discussing how these foundational steps can significantly bolster your business credit profile. Plus, I’ll share savvy tips on the strategic use of business credit cards and loans to elevate your credit score. But we don't stop there. In the second part of our discussion, we'll delve into how you can proactively manage and leverage your established business credit for long-term success. Learn the art of building positive relationships with vendors and suppliers and discover strategic ways to use credit to boost your business's financial stability and growth opportunities. For show notes, past episodes, and more from Things Entrepreneurs Should Know, visit TESKPod.com. Want to continue the conversation? You can reach Chip directly at Chip@Schweiger.CPA Follow the show on Instagram at @teskpod. Things Entrepreneurs Should Know is provided for general informational and educational purposes only. Nothing in this podcast should be considered accounting, tax, legal, investment, or other professional advice.
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S3 · E34
Jun 12, 2024 · 9 min
Essential Accounts Receivable Strategies to Supercharge Your Business Cash Flow
Can mastering accounts receivable management really supercharge your business's cash flow? Find out as we unpack the essential strategies for optimizing your receivables process and boosting your financial health. In this episode, Chip breaks down the nuts and bolts of accounts receivable—from setting clear payment terms and ensuring invoice accuracy to utilizing technology for efficiency. You'll discover why managing AR is not just a back-office function but a critical element in sustaining your company's operations and growth. Learn valuable tips such as prompt invoicing, effective follow-up procedures, and the power of offering payment incentives. We'll also touch on the importance of monitoring aging reports, establishing robust credit policies, and leveraging cutting-edge accounting software to streamline collections. Whether you're a seasoned entrepreneur or a new business owner, these actionable insights will equip you with the tools to minimize overdue payments and strengthen client relationships. For show notes, past episodes, and more from Things Entrepreneurs Should Know, visit TESKPod.com. Want to continue the conversation? You can reach Chip directly at Chip@Schweiger.CPA Follow the show on Instagram at @teskpod. Things Entrepreneurs Should Know is provided for general informational and educational purposes only. Nothing in this podcast should be considered accounting, tax, legal, investment, or other professional advice.
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S3 · E33
Sep 20, 2023 · 13 min
5 Types of Business Borrowing for Entrepreneurs
Feeling overwhelmed by the complexities of business borrowing? We're here to guide you through the labyrinth of different borrowing options available to entrepreneurs. This episode is all about demystifying the process of borrowing, enabling you to make smart and informed decisions for your business. We decode everything from traditional bank loans, SBA loans, business lines of credit to invoice factoring, giving you the essential low-down on eligibility criteria, interest rates, repayment terms, and collateral requirements. Packed with everything you need to know about business borrowing, this episode is a must-listen for all entrepreneurs out there. Tune in and empower yourself with the knowledge to navigate the world of business borrowing confidently. As discussed in this episode, here's The SBA's Loan Portal For show notes, past episodes, and more from Things Entrepreneurs Should Know, visit TESKPod.com. Want to continue the conversation? You can reach Chip directly at Chip@Schweiger.CPA Follow the show on Instagram at @teskpod. Things Entrepreneurs Should Know is provided for general informational and educational purposes only. Nothing in this podcast should be considered accounting, tax, legal, investment, or other professional advice.
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