Episodi

  • Franchise Bookkeeping & Ownership Insights with Max Emma | Ep. 28 | My SBA Loan Pro

    Franchise Bookkeeping & Ownership Insights with Max Emma | Ep. 28 | My SBA Loan Pro
    Jan 16 2026
    From learning English by calling credit card companies to building a nationwide bookkeeping franchise, Max Emma’s story is the definition of the American Dream. In this episode, Max shares how he bounced back from a devastating bankruptcy during the 2008 recession to launch and scale BooXkeeping.We dive deep into the world of franchising, discussing what aspiring business owners should look for in a franchisor and the unique "3-6-9-12" training model that sets his company apart. Max also reveals his insights on the hottest franchise industries right now—including health, pet care, and handyman services—and offers wisdom on why you should never be afraid to open new doors.In this episode, we cover:Max’s journey from the Soviet Union to US entrepreneurship.Overcoming failure and the mindset needed to rebound.The "X-Factor" of BooXkeeping and their franchisee support system.Which franchise industries are oversaturated and which are growing.The impact of AI on the future of the workforce.If you liked this content, let's connect on social media:Instagram: https://instagram.com/mysbaproTwitter: https://twitter.com/mysbaproLinkedIn: https://linkedin.com/in/ryanpatryck Key Chapters:0:00 - Introduction and Host Welcome 1:08 - From the Soviet Union to Corporate America 2:44 - An Ingenious Way to Learn English 4:04 - Surviving Bankruptcy and Starting "Bookkeeping" 6:28 - Qualifications and the Role of Operations vs. Sales 7:49 - Creating Culture: The "Cool Bean Counters" 9:02 - The X-Factor and Trademarking the Name 10:39 - How AI and Cloud Tech Are Changing the Industry 14:30 - National Growth and Protected Territories 18:13 - The 3-6-9-12 Franchisee Training Model 24:32 - Realistic ROI and the "Cash Cow" Myth 26:23 - Max's Consulting Business and Commission Sharing31:51 - Market Trends: Fitness Consolidation and Senior Care Saturation 34:54 - Future-Proofing: Kids Brands and Handyman Services 35:53 - The Imminent Impact of Automation on Jobs 38:20 - The Opportunity Cost of Doing Your Own Books 40:43 - The Importance of Being Coachable 42:51 - Traits of High-Performing Franchisees 45:20 - Words of Wisdom: Open Every Door 48:42 - Contact Information and ConclusionMore Subject Matter Experts Playlisthttps://youtube.com/playlist?list=PL1...⁠More ThinkSBA Resources⁠https://calendly.com/thinksba - Schedule Callhttps://g.page/thinksba - Google Business Page & Reviewshttps://thinksba.com/faq - Frequently Asked Questionshttps://mysbaloanpro.com⁠ - My SBA Loan Pro Podcasthttp://youtube.com/@thinksba - YouTube Channel
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    50 min
  • 2026 SBA Playbook: Real Estate, Business Acquisition & Franchise Lending | Ep. 27 | My SBA Loan Pro

    2026 SBA Playbook: Real Estate, Business Acquisition & Franchise Lending | Ep. 27 | My SBA Loan Pro
    Jan 5 2026
    In this episode of My SBA Loan Pro Podcast, the host sits down with Ryan Smith, founder of ThinkSBA, to discuss the current and future landscape of SBA lending, real estate financing, and business acquisition funding.Ryan shares what he’s seeing across SBA 7(a), SBA 504, national banks, community lenders, and SBA-only lenders — including where interest rates are headed, when it makes sense to buy versus wait, and why certainty to close often matters more than chasing the lowest rate.The conversation also dives into business acquisition trends driven by the “silver tsunami,” increasing private equity competition, franchise startup financing, collateral requirements, and what serious buyers should be doing now to prepare for 2026.Whether you’re a business owner, acquisition entrepreneur, or franchise buyer, this episode offers practical, real-world insight into navigating today’s lending environment and positioning yourself for long-term success.Instagram: https://instagram.com/mysbaproTwitter: https://twitter.com/mysbaproLinkedIn: https://linkedin.com/in/ryanpatryckKey Chapters:00:00 – 2026 Owner Occupied Real Estate Financing Outlook02:05 – Owner Occupied Real Estate Interest Rates04:03 – Real Estate SBA 7(a), 504 & Conventional Lender Appetite07:30 – SBA 7(a) Variable High Interest Owner Occupied Real Estate Rate Financing11:20 – Current Lender Prepayment Penalty Strategies12:52 – Owner Occupied Real Estate Client Case Studies16:26 – Owner Occupied Real Estate Purchase Timing16:58 – How To Prepare To Buy Owner Occupied Real Estate in 202618:11 – Business Acquisition Outlook And Opportunities20:08 – Weighing Business Acquisition Financing Interest Rates Vs. Certainty To Close 24:25 – Why Key Employees Need To Be Ready When Opportunity Strikes28:10 – 2026 Business Acquisition Financing Outlook30:03 – Current SBA Franchise Financing Landscape30:50 – Franchise Start Up Collateral Vs. Liquidity33:08 – Lendable Real Estate Equity Defined34:21 – Franchise Start Up Lender Appetite36:45 – Is Now The Time To Start a New Franchise Location38:30 – 2026 Franchise Financing OutlookMore Subject Matter Experts Playlisthttps://youtube.com/playlist?list=PL1...⁠More ThinkSBA Resources⁠https://calendly.com/thinksba - Schedule Callhttps://g.page/thinksba - Google Business Page & Reviewshttps://thinksba.com/faq - Frequently Asked Questionshttps://mysbaloanpro.com⁠ - My SBA Loan Pro Podcasthttp://youtube.com/@thinksba - YouTube Channel
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    40 min
  • SBA 504 Real Estate Loan Program Masterclass with Casey Hopkins | Ep. 26 | My SBA Loan Pro Podcast

    SBA 504 Real Estate Loan Program Masterclass with Casey Hopkins | Ep. 26 | My SBA Loan Pro Podcast
    Dec 19 2025
    In this episode of the My SBA Loan Pro Podcast, Ryan Smith sits down with Casey Hopkins of Southland CDC for a clear, no-fluff breakdown of the SBA 504 loan program to purchase owner-occupied real estate.This conversation focuses on the core mechanics and decision points business owners need to understand before buying owner-occupied commercial real estate—from eligibility and structure to timing, rates, and prepayment strategy.If you’re considering buying your building, this episode will help you avoid costly mistakes and make informed decisions.If you liked this content, let's connect on social media:If you liked this content, let's connect on social media:Instagram: https://instagram.com/mysbaproTwitter: https://twitter.com/mysbaproLinkedIn: https://linkedin.com/in/ryanpatryckKey Chapters:00:00 - Introduction01:22 - Casey's Background04:30 - 504 Overview05:52 - Loan Structure08:13 - Property Types10:15 - Eligibility11:21 - Occupancy Rule16:59 - Application Process19:54 - Timing Strategy22:27 - SBA Review29:32 - Screen Outs34:55 - Loan Limits42:47 - Prepayment Rules54:19 - Best TimingMore Subject Matter Experts Playlisthttps://youtube.com/playlist?list=PL1...⁠More ThinkSBA Resources⁠https://calendly.com/thinksba - Schedule Callhttps://g.page/thinksba - Google Business Page & Reviewshttps://thinksba.com/faq - Frequently Asked Questionshttps://mysbaloanpro.com⁠ - My SBA Loan Pro Podcasthttp://youtube.com/@thinksba - YouTube Channel
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    57 min
  • Real Estate Working Capital And Exit Strategies with Roy Chiovari | Ep. 25 | My SBA Loan Pro Podcast

    Real Estate Working Capital And Exit Strategies with Roy Chiovari | Ep. 25 | My SBA Loan Pro Podcast
    Dec 5 2025
    In this episode, Roy Chiovari shares how he’s helping redefine what it means to be a banker in today’s world — moving beyond transactions to the art of personalized private banking at Citizens Private Bank.Drawing on his early credit training and experience at Wells Fargo, Roy explains how that foundation shaped his holistic approach to serving clients. His team functions as a single, lifelong point of contact for business owners and real estate investors—simplifying everything from day-to-day banking to long-term financial strategy.For busy entrepreneurs, Roy’s mission is clear: eliminate banking “brain damage” through responsive, remote-friendly, full-service support. He also highlights why deposits—not just loans—reveal the depth of a client relationship, and how referrals from satisfied clients have become the cornerstone of his thriving practice.If you liked this content, let's connect on social media:Instagram: https://instagram.com/mysbaproTwitter: https://twitter.com/mysbaproLinkedIn: https://linkedin.com/in/ryanpatryckKey Chapters:0:00 - Introduction0:42 - Chicago Roots1:53 - Credit Training5:48 - From Transactional to Relational7:16 - What is Private Banking?9:18 - Holistic Client Care12:47 - Avoiding Banking Brain Damage17:50 - The Power of Deposits19:42 - Exiting a Business20:30 - Owner-Occupied Real EstateMore Subject Matter Experts Playlisthttps://youtube.com/playlist?list=PL1...⁠More ThinkSBA Resources⁠https://calendly.com/thinksba - Schedule Callhttps://g.page/thinksba - Google Business Page & Reviewshttps://thinksba.com/faq - Frequently Asked Questionshttps://mysbaloanpro.com⁠ - My SBA Loan Pro Podcasthttp://youtube.com/@thinksba - YouTube Channel
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    38 min
  • How Small Business Acquisitions Really Work with Melissa Bustarde | Ep. 24 | My SBA Loan Pro Podcast

    How Small Business Acquisitions Really Work with Melissa Bustarde | Ep. 24 | My SBA Loan Pro Podcast
    Nov 21 2025
    Ryan Smith, SBA loan expert, is joined by Melissa Bustarde, an M&A attorney and Managing Partner at Branthman, Mayfield, Bustarde, Ryckanthal LLP (BMBR LLP). Melissa specializes in representing both buyers and sellers in lower-middle-market transactions—deals of $10 million or less in enterprise value—and has advised numerous acquisition entrepreneurs who used SBA financing to close their transactions.In this episode, Melissa shares her remarkable career journey, detailing her path from law clerk to firm owner, and provides crucial legal guidance for entrepreneurs and small business owners.Key topics covered include:Why niche M&A expertise is essential, and why hiring a non-specialized attorney is a mistake.The critical importance of the Letter of Intent (LOI) and why signing it without counsel can increase costs and risks.The three core areas of a purchase agreement that protect buyers: R&Ws, Indemnification, and payment structure.How Melissa’s holistic experience representing both sides allows her to negotiate better deals for her clients.The risk of over-complication from larger law firms and how to streamline the process.The difference between Asset vs. Stock/MIPA Purchases, and how to mitigate downside risk.Insights into her transition to General Counsel for clients post-acquisition, covering everything from entity formation to contract review.The future of the legal industry and how AI is currently impacting drafting and litigation.If you are buying or selling a business, this deep dive into M&A legal strategy is essential viewing! Key Chapters:0:00 - Introduction0:47 - Attorney Background1:30 - Clerk to Partner3:00 - Recessions' Impact4:26 - M&A Focus5:43 - Tailored Fees8:31 - Legal Audit11:29 - Geographic Limits13:50 - Letter of Intent16:58 - Buyer Protections20:30 - Case Study23:44 - R&W Importance28:50 - Asset vs Stock37:37 - General Counsel42:26 - AI Impact44:48 - AI LitigationMore Subject Matter Experts Playlist • Subject Matter Experts Face to Face Interv... ⁠More ThinkSBA Resources⁠https://calendly.com/thinksba - Schedule Callhttps://g.page/thinksba - Google Business Page & Reviewshttps://thinksba.com/faq - Frequently Asked Questionshttps://mysbaloanpro.com⁠ - My SBA Loan Pro Podcast / @thinksba YouTube Channel
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    45 min
  • Exit Planning and Income Wealth Distribution with Scott Chelberg | Ep. 22 | My SBA Loan Pro Podcast

    Exit Planning and Income Wealth Distribution with Scott Chelberg | Ep. 22 | My SBA Loan Pro Podcast
    Nov 7 2025
    Many business owners focus on building wealth (accumulation) but neglect the crucial final phase: wealth distribution. In this podcast, expert wealth advisor Scott Chelberg, President of Retirement Solutions , dives deep into exit planning which is really just strategic planning for business owners who are nearing retirement.Learn the essential steps to maximize your business's value and ensure you have the income to support your ideal retirement lifestyle. Scott explains how to quarterback your financial team, coordinate your experts, and why you need to think about taxes now—including how your money will be taxed when it comes out of your investments.What you will learn:Why exit planning should start 5 years or more before you plan to sell.The difference between a typical investment advisor (accumulation) and a true wealth advisor (holistic planning and distribution).The 4 C's of value that drive a business's worth, beyond just the balance sheet.How to structure your income distribution into different 'silos' to manage risk and tax burden in retirement.Strategies for "Tired Ted"—the business owner who is near retirement but hasn't prepared.Don't wait until the last minute! Start planning for a successful exit and a secure, tax-efficient retirement today.If you liked this content, let's connect on social media:Instagram: ⁠⁠ / mysbapro ⁠⁠Twitter: ⁠⁠ / mysbapro ⁠⁠LinkedIn: ⁠⁠ / ryanpatryck ⁠⁠Key Chapters:⁠00:00⁠ - Introduction⁠01:45⁠ - Attraction ⁠03:57⁠ - Ideal Client ⁠05:43⁠ - Value Gap ⁠07:12⁠ - Timing ⁠09:21⁠ - Unprepared ⁠12:44⁠ - Dream Client ⁠19:27⁠ - Taxation ⁠25:27⁠ - Foxes ⁠32:57⁠ - Four Cs ⁠3⁠⁠7:58⁠ - Second Opinion 40:34 - Success StoriesMore Subject Matter Experts Playlist⁠⁠ ⁠⁠⁠⁠ • Subject Matter Experts Face to Face Interv... ⁠⁠⁠ More ThinkSBA Resources⁠⁠⁠https://calendly.com/thinksba⁠⁠ - Schedule Call⁠⁠https://g.page/thinksba⁠⁠ - Google Business Page & Reviews⁠⁠https://thinksba.com/faq⁠⁠ - Frequently Asked Questions⁠⁠https://mysbaloanpro.com⁠⁠⁠ - My SBA Loan Pro Podcast⁠⁠ ⁠⁠⁠⁠ / @thinksba - ⁠⁠YouTube Channel
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    40 min
  • Inside the Mind of SBA Loan Broker And Expert Ryan Smith | Ep. 23 | My SBA Loan Pro Podcast

    Inside the Mind of SBA Loan Broker And Expert Ryan Smith | Ep. 23 | My SBA Loan Pro Podcast
    Nov 7 2025
    Ryan Smith, Principal and Founder of ThinkSBA and host of the My SBA Loan Pro Podcast, sits down to share his journey from a banking background to becoming a highly successful, niche SBA loan broker. In this deep-dive, Ryan discusses how a single declined loan was the catalyst for starting his own business, why he chose to focus exclusively on SBA loans, and the massive advantages of being a specialized expert versus a generalist. He also offers invaluable advice for small business owners and acquisition entrepreneurs on navigating the complex world of SBA lending and how he ensures his clients get the lowest interest rate and best terms for which they qualify.Key Takeaways:• The moment a single loan decline led to the creation of ThinkSBA.• Why niching down from "Holistic Lending" to SBA was the crucial decision for success.• The advantage of being the "Speedboat" that can pivot quickly, unlike the "Titanic" big banks.• How his personal experience of acquiring a business and signing a $5 million SBA loan adds unmatched credibility.• Why the market is shifting from real estate to business acquisition and franchising.• Powerful strategies for using the SBA 504 loan program to buy real estate with zero capital injection.• The future role of AI in enhancing analysis to free up human talent for revenue-generation.• The importance of a client-first culture and why bigger isn't always better for service quality. If you're looking to finance a business acquisition, buy commercial real estate, or just want expert advice on SBA lending, this episode is a must-watch!Key Chapters:• 0:00 - Introduction• 0:47 - What Inspired You?• 1:51 - Defining the Niche• 4:21 - Traditional Lending Problem• 8:38 - Mission Definition• 11:39 - Biggest Transition Challenges• 14:41 - Problem Solving• 18:23 - Loan Volume Products• 19:54 - Differentiation• 22:42 - Borrower Profile• 27:35 - SBA Misconceptions• 29:56 - Lending Trends• 32:00 - Capital Allocation• 34:03 - Pre-Qualification Timing• 36:58 - Lessons Learned• 39:56 - Future LandscapeMore ThinkSBA Resources • Subject Matter Experts Face to Face Interv... ⁠More ThinkSBA Resources⁠https://calendly.com/thinksba - Schedule Callhttps://g.page/thinksba - Google Business Page & Reviewshttps://thinksba.com/faq - Frequently Asked Questionshttps://mysbaloanpro.com⁠ - My SBA Loan Pro Podcast
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    53 min
  • How to Prepare Your Business for an Exit with Joshua Donnelly | Ep. 21 | My SBA Loan Pro Podcast

    How to Prepare Your Business for an Exit with Joshua Donnelly | Ep. 21 | My SBA Loan Pro Podcast
    Oct 10 2025
    Joshua Donnelly, founder of Stone Canyon Advisors, shares his incredible journey from running a cattle operation in his teens to becoming a leading M&A advisor. He reveals why he left a successful investment banking career to build his own "platform business" and explains his unique "Acquirable Platform" designed to help business owners maximize their exit value.In this conversation, we dive deep into:- The "Acquirable Framework": The four pillars (Efficiencies, Financials, Culture, Scale) that determine a company's sale readiness.- The Power of Preparation: How a 2-3 year preparation plan can double a company's sale value and create generational wealth.- Counterintuitive M&A Insights: The "un-Googleable" strategies, like why not all revenue is good revenue when preparing for a sale.- The Founder's Journey: Joshua's personal story of taking the leap, dealing with anxiety, and building a company worth copying for his sons.If you're a business owner considering an exit or an entrepreneur on the precipice of a big decision, this episode is packed with actionable advice.If you liked this content, let's connect on social media:Instagram: / mysbapro Twitter: / mysbapro LinkedIn: / ryanpatryck Key Chapters:0:00 - From Cattle to Banking2:30 - Founding Stone Canyon5:15 - The "Acquirable Platform"8:10 - Ideal Client Profile10:45 - What Makes a Company Saleable14:20 - Renovate for the Buyer17:50 - Case Study: Illuminating Value22:00 - Un-Googleable M&A Secrets26:30 - The 3-Year Engagement Process30:10 - Taking the LeapMore Subject Matter Experts Playlist • Subject Matter Experts Face to Face Interv... ⁠ More ThinkSBA Resources⁠https://calendly.com/thinksba - Schedule Callhttps://g.page/thinksba - Google Business Page & Reviewshttps://thinksba.com/faq - Frequently Asked Questionshttps://mysbaloanpro.com⁠ - My SBA Loan Pro Podcast / @thinksba - YouTube Channel
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    50 min