In this episode of Business Talk with Meghan McNulty, she speaks with Brian McNulty, former CEO and seasoned advisor to business owners, for a candid conversation on the risks many entrepreneurs overlook — and strategies that can protect their wealth. beyond the business.

They explore:  Why business owners often concentrate too much wealth inside the company or in real estate  How shifting from earned income to passive income opens up new freedom and flexibility  Why formal, written succession and transition plans are essential to protecting both business value and personal wealth  The critical need for integrating legal, financial, and operational plans into a cohesive strategy.

Key Takeaways:  Business success ≠ personal financial security — Without careful planning, your personal wealth can be overly exposed to business risks.  Passive income is key — Building income streams outside the business creates more options and freedom.  Liquidity matters — Real estate-heavy wealth can create cash flow challenges when you need to transition or pass assets.  A written plan protects everyone — Succession and exit plans need to be more than just ideas — they need to be documented, coordinated, and actionable.  It’s never “set it and forget it” — Your financial, legal, and operational plans need regular updates as your business and life evolve.

About Meghan’s Guest Brian McNulty brings over four decades of experience helping business owners navigate critical transitions — from ownership changes and succession to expansions and mergers. As a former CEO himself, Brian deeply understands the challenges leaders face and offers practical, strategic financial guidance designed to support long- term success.

He is a Chartered Financial Consultant (ChFC®) and Chartered Life Underwriter (CLU®), holding Series 6, 7, 24, 63, and 65 Securities Registrations. As a member of Cetera Advisor Networks LLC and Cetera Investment Advisers LLC, Brian provides access to innovative solutions tailored to the evolving needs of businesses in transition.

Disclaimer: Securities offered through Cetera Advisor Networks LLC (doing insurance business in CA as CFGAN Insurance Agency LLC, CA Insurance Lic# 0644976), member FINRA/SIPC. Advisory Services offered through Cetera Investment Advisers LLC, a registered investment adviser. Tax & Financial Group is independent of Cetera. |4001 MacArthur Blvd., 3rd Floor | Newport Beach, CA 92660

20240400202 DOFU 04/2024 Want to connect with Brian or explore strategies for your business transition? Book a. discovery meeting or follow him on LinkedIn.

In this special guest feature, Meghan McNulty joins the Full Count Podcast to unpack the estate planning mistakes she sees most often—from relying solely on a will to overlooking how trusts and LLCs actually work.

Drawing from her background as both a business owner and estate planning attorney, Meghan breaks down the 3 levels of estate planning, how to avoid costly probate, and why legal strategy—not just documents—is key to protecting your family, your business, and your legacy.

Whether you're a homeowner, entrepreneur, or building multi-generational wealth, this episode will help you rethink your approach to estate planning.

Key Topics:  Why a will alone won’t keep your family out of court  What a revocable living trust actually does—and who needs one  The difference between liability protection (LLCs) and probate protection (trusts)  How to prevent family fights over inheritance  What happens if you become incapacitated—and no plan is in place

Listen now to get ahead of the curve and protect what you’ve built.

About the Host: Andrew Vargas Andrew Vargas is a Southern California–based realtor, entrepreneur, and host of the Full Count Podcast—a show that explores high-pressure moments in life and business with real people and real conversations. With a background in real estate and a passion for leadership and networking, Andrew brings a grounded, relatable voice to topics that matter—from personal growth to legacy planning. His goal? To help listeners navigate pivotal decisions with more clarity, confidence, and connection.

On this episode of Business Talk with Meghan McNulty, IP attorney Omid Khalifeh joins Meghan to explore how founders, creatives, and even physicians can (and should) protect their intellectual property—from brand names and inventions to digital content and trade secrets.

Whether you’re building a business or building wealth, your intellectual property is part of your legacy. Meghan and Omid break down:

• The critical mistakes founders make by skipping early trademark and patent protection
• Why you don’t need to “build it” to protect it—and when your ideas become vulnerable to the public domain
• How social media influencers, doctors, and celebrities are turning their names into protected assets
• The role of patents in the biotech space—from medical devices to gene therapy—and how physician-inventors are protecting their work
• The growing risks around cyberattacks, trade secret theft, and international IP disputes
• Key takeaways from landmark IP cases—like Alice Corp. and the Crocs design patent ruling
• How IP strategies align with long-term value creation—even if you’re thinking about succession, asset protection, or wealth transfer

If you’re creating something of value—whether it’s a brand, a business, or a body of work—this episode will help you understand how to protect it now and ensure it supports your long-term goals. Intellectual property isn’t just a legal matter—it’s a business asset, and often a cornerstone of your legacy.

About Meghan’s Guest Omid Khalifeh is the founder of Omni Legal Group, an intellectual property law firm based in Los Angeles. With a background in neuroscience and deep experience in patents, trademarks, copyrights, trade secrets, and cyberlaw, Omid advises clients ranging from startups to Fortune 500 companies.

He holds a B.S. in Neuroscience from UCLA and earned his J.D. from Chapman University School of Law on a full tuition scholarship. A published author (The Gene Wars: Science, the Law, and the Human Genome in Loyola Law Review), Omid is frequently invited to speak at national conferences on developments in IP law.

Want to connect with Omid or learn more about protecting your ideas? Visit omnilegalgroup.com or follow him on LinkedIn

What does it take to unseat an eight-year incumbent as one of the youngest women ever elected to the South Dakota State Senate? Amber Hulse shares her path—from growing up on a ranch in a veteran family, to Georgetown Law, to becoming a freshman legislator—and how her early commitment to service shaped everything that followed.

In this episode, host Meghan McNulty speaks with Amber about what prepared her to lead, how she developed a compelling message, and why diverse voices—especially young women—belong at every decision-making table. Amber reflects on the challenges of fundraising, navigating criticism as a young, unmarried woman, and the real issues she’s working on, including property tax reform and election integrity.

A Georgetown Law grad and former Miss South Dakota and Miss South Dakota USA, Amber opens up about balancing her legal career, public service, and a life in the spotlight—all while staying grounded in her mission. Whether you’re building a business, interested in legislative journeys, or just learning to trust your gut, Amber’s story offers inspiration and practical applications for business owners and emerging leaders.

Key Takeaways You don’t need a legacy to lead. Amber didn’t come from a political family—and she didn’t wait for permission to step up. Her story reminds us that if you see a gap in leadership, you can be the one to fill it, even without traditional credentials or a well-known name. The power of clear messaging. Amber credits much of her campaign success to refining her “why.” Whether you’re pitching investors or selling a service, a sharp, compelling message makes all the difference in gaining support. Preparation beats perception. As a young candidate running against an incumbent, Amber faced doubts—but her deep prep, internships, and legal experience earned her respect. Diverse perspectives drive better outcomes. Amber highlights the importance of generational, gender, and professional diversity in decision-making. Fresh perspectives often lead to smarter, more innovative solutions. Burnout is real—balance matters. Despite her full plate, Amber is honest about the mental toll of juggling public service, law, and life. Her reminder to stay grounded, prioritize values, and not tie your identity to a title is advice every founder or leader should hear.

This conversation is a must-listen for emerging leaders, entrepreneurs, and anyone who’s ever been told they’re “not ready.” Amber didn’t wait her turn—and her story may spark the next step in yours.

About Meghan’s Guest State Senator Amber Hulse is a rising Republican leader and attorney, currently serving as one of the youngest legislators in the country as a State Senator in South Dakota. Raised on a hunting ranch in Hot Springs, her dedication to service was deeply influenced by her father, a 100% disabled Vietnam veteran.

Amber graduated Phi Beta Kappa, Summa Cum Laude from the University of South Dakota and earned her law degree from Georgetown, where she served as President of the Federalist Society. Her political experience includes positions with the White House, U.S. Senate Judiciary Committee, and state and federal offices across the country.

She’s also one of only four women to hold both the Miss South Dakota and Miss South Dakota USA titles.

Currently, Amber is an associate at Dhillon Law Group and the youngest Republican woman ever elected to South Dakota’s State Senate. She’s passionate about empowering conservative women and bringing fresh leadership to public service.

To learn more or get in touch, visit amberforsouthdakota.com or email Amber.Hulse@sdlegislature.gov. Follow Amber on Instagram

What does it really take to turn a casual conversation over beers into a thriving business rooted in community and family? In this episode of Business Talk with Meghan McNulty, brothers JP and Christian share their journey of building Dana Point Ale House, a craft beer destination rooted in history, hospitality, and hustle.

For business owners and entrepreneurs, this conversation is packed with insights — from forming an LLC overnight and navigating city permits, to attracting investors and adapting the business model when unexpected roadblocks arise. JP and Christian reveal how they leveraged local connections, embraced the power of hyperlocal marketing, and turned a family-owned business into a community hub.

They also dive into the realities of working with family, the importance of listening to your customers, and how flexibility and creativity kept them afloat during the early, uncertain days. Whether you’re thinking about launching a business in your hometown, rethinking your marketing strategy, or balancing a side hustle with family life — there’s something here for you.

Key Takeaways: Embrace community-focused marketing (i.e. partnering with local businesses and parent groups). Find creative ways to pivot when your first business plan doesn’t work out. Understand the realities of family partnerships — how to make it work and avoid unnecessary conflict. Build a business that reflects your values and your community’s culture — authenticity attracts loyalty. Use local history or culture to help shape your brand story and stand out.

Whether you're a seasoned entrepreneur or just starting to explore your own business idea, JP and Christian’s story is a reminder that passion, persistence, and strong community ties can turn an idea into something special.

Tune in to hear their story, their lessons, and how they’re continuing to evolve as business owners — all while staying true to their roots.

About Meghan’s Guests

Christian Goodman A Southern California native, Christian Goodman has over 20 years of experience in the restaurant, bar, and hospitality industry. After graduating from UCLA in 2012, he pursued his passion for craft beer, working with Stone Brewing before becoming the owner and operator of Dana Point Ale House in 2022. His taproom showcases the best craft beers California has to offer. When he’s not working, Christian enjoys time with family, discovering new beers, and listening to punk rock.

JP Goodman Born and raised in South Orange County, JP Goodman has spent over a decade in the craft beer industry. A 2013 graduate of Cal State Fullerton, he started his career at Stone Brewing, gaining extensive experience in brewing, sales, and distribution. In 2022, he and his brother Christian turned their longtime dream into reality by opening Dana Point Ale House. Since 2019, JP has worked as an Area Sales Manager for Brewery X in Anaheim while helping at the taproom. In his free time, he enjoys pouring beers, spending time with his wife and daughter, and supporting the local craft beer community.

Follow Dana Point Ale House on Instagram @danapointalehouse and visit danapointalehouse.com for their latest beer list, events, and more.

California’s wildfires aren’t just destroying homes, they’re reshaping the entire insurance market. As insurers pull out of high-risk areas, homeowners are facing rising costs, coverage gaps, and new challenges. In this episode, Meghan McNulty sits down with property insurance professional Daniel Gonzales-Hatton to break down what’s happening and what you can do about it.

They discuss why insurance companies are retreating from California, how the FAIR Plan works (and its limitations), and why trusts and LLCs can complicate claims if not handled correctly. Daniel also shares what homeowners should do before disaster strikes, including reviewing policy limits, working with brokers, and ensuring the right entities are listed on insurance documents.

If you own property in California—or just want to understand the shifting insurance landscape—this episode is packed with insights to help you protect your home and financial future.

About Meghan’s Guest Daniel Gonzales-Hatton is the Agency Owner at Goosehead Insurance, a nationally recognized independent agency founded in 2003, specializing in residential property coverage for homeowners, realtors, and loan officers. With extensive industry experience, he provides tailored insurance solutions that ensure seamless transactions and comprehensive protection.

A trusted resource in California’s evolving insurance market, Daniel helps clients navigate coverage challenges, regulatory hurdles, and complex ownership structures such as trusts and LLCs. His commitment to education and transparency empowers both consumers and professionals through workshops, informative content, and one-on-one consultations.

Beyond his work, Daniel’s passion for travel and adventure brings a well-rounded perspective to his client-focused approach.

Lean more - www.gooseheadinsurance.com Contact Daniel - daniel.gonzales@goosehead.com CA License # 0K45577 AZ License # 17707678

Is managing your business finances a constant struggle? In this episode of Business Talk with Meghan McNulty, she and professional bookkeeper Jana Brusch, discuss the essential role of bookkeeping and how it supports business success.

This episode covers:

• Avoiding Common Financial Traps: Jana reveals the common financial pitfalls that can derail a business, including mixing personal and business funds and neglecting expense tracking.
• The Human Element in Bookkeeping: Even with tools like QuickBooks, human oversight is crucial. Jana shares a cautionary story about a $1.4 million "grocery" expense.
• When to Hire a Bookkeeper: Learn when it's the right time to bring a bookkeeper on board, especially given the current CPA shortage.
• Organized Finances, Less Stressful Taxes: Discover the connection between good bookkeeping practices and a smoother tax season.
• Jana's Entrepreneurial Journey: Hear Jana's inspiring story of transitioning from bridal fashion to bookkeeping and building a successful business through referrals.

This episode is packed with actionable advice for any business owner looking to improve their financial health and build a foundation for sustainable growth. Tune in now!

About Meghan’s Guest Jana Brusch is a seasoned financial professional with a background in accounting and business management. A graduate of Budapest Business Schooll's Faculty of Finance and Accounting, Jana honed her skills managing quality and compliance for a national rehabilitation center before launching her own successful accounting business. She and her team specialize in streamlining financial processes for businesses and high-net- worth individuals, providing comprehensive support from bookkeeping and budgeting to financial reporting and tax preparation coordination. Jana's clients range from investment firms and construction companies to retail stores and individuals seeking personal financial management. Her focus is on simplifying financial complexities and ensuring accurate, timely reporting, allowing clients to focus on their core business or personal endeavors. Learn more at Seashore Bookkeeping

Is aging inevitable? Or can we slow—or even reverse—it? In this episode, Meghan McNulty sits down with Dr. Iman Bar, a pioneer in integrative and regenerative medicine, to explore how biohacking, peptides, and stem cells are transforming the way we age.

Dr. Bar explains how aging actually begins in your 30s, why hormonal shifts and inflammation accelerate the process, and how cutting-edge treatments like peptides, exosomes, and IV therapy can optimize health and longevity. She also introduces the concept of "zombie cells"—damaged cells that linger in the body, accelerating aging and inflammation—and shares how intermittent fasting, regenerative medicine, and lifestyle changes can help eliminate them.

What You’ll Learn: Why stem cells & exosomes are the future of regenerative medicine The role of biohacking & AI-driven health tracking in personalized wellness How to eliminate "zombie cells" and slow cellular aging The growing impact of Med Spas & functional medicine on proactive healthcare

Want to feel better, look younger, and age smarter? Tune in for expert insights on optimizing longevity and unlocking your body’s full potential.

About Meghan’s Guest Dr. Iman Bar, MD has been practicing medicine since 1990, starting in pediatrics and women’s health, where she earned numerous accolades, including "Top Doctor" by the American Medical Association. In 2010, she shifted toward holistic medicine, specializing in Homeopathy and Herbal Medicine and earning Board Certification from the American Association of Integrative Medicine in 2012. As the founder of BarXMD, Dr. Bar is passionate about identifying the root causes of symptoms and optimizing health through a variety of modalities such hormone replacement, toxicities, allergies, or nutrient deficiencies. She stays at the forefront of integrative medicine, regularly attending conferences to bring cutting-edge treatments to her patients.

Learn more at www. www.drbarx.com