Welcome back to the Dollar Wise Podcast. In this episode, Andrew and Brett break down below-the-line tax deductions. They’re offering practical explanations and examples to help you understand how these deductions really work.  They’re talking: The difference between standard and itemized deductions Key itemized categories like mortgage interest, state and local taxes, charitable giving, and medical expenses  And diving into niche areas like gambling losses and casualty losses.  Whether you're filing solo or jointly, this episode equips you with the tools to make more informed tax decisions. Tune in to learn: The distinction between standard and itemized deductions. Key categories…

Welcome back to The Entrepreneur’s Journey. In this episode, Jason Gabrieli sits down with John Cavanaugh, CPA and tax attorney at Firenze Advisors, to discuss the foundational role that legal entity structure plays throughout the life of a business—from launch to scale to exit. They explore common pitfalls, how to adjust structures as businesses grow, and key planning considerations for exits, succession, and estate transitions. If you’re a business owner thinking about growth or preparing for a future sale, this episode is packed with practical knowledge. Tune into this episode to also learn: Why your legal entity structure isn’t just…

Entrepreneurs Journey with Michael Pallozzi, EP.26 Sometimes the “aha moment” is not fireworks and confetti. It shows up when you are backed into a corner and have no choice but to figure it out. That is exactly where the conversation goes in Episode 26 of Entrepreneurs Journey. Michael sat down with Shawn Calkins, owner of Universal Service Solutions in Edwardsville, Pennsylvania, to talk about what it really takes to run a home services business. Money management. Hiring and keeping the right people. Weather setbacks that can derail your schedule. The long game of building a company that can eventually run…

In this episode of the Entrepreneurs Journey, Michael Pallozzi speaks with Shawn Calkins, owner of Universal Service Solutions in Edwardsville, Pennsylvania. Shawn shares how he went from being unemployed during the 2008 housing crisis to owning a successful full-service pavement maintenance company. The conversation highlights the importance of grit, financial discipline, mentorship, and building a team culture rooted in values. Listeners will hear about Shawn’s “profit-first” approach, how he supports his crew's financial growth, and why relationship-building is at the core of his business strategy. Tune into this episode to also learn: Why cash flow management and profit-first thinking transformed…

On Episode 72 of the DollarWise Podcast, Andrew Barnhardt and Brett Herron dug into a topic that might not sound exciting at first glance but could save you real money when it comes time to file your taxes: above-the-line deductions. These deductions often get overlooked, yet they’re one of the most effective ways to reduce your taxable income and create opportunities for better planning throughout the year. Why Talk About Above-the-Line Deductions? Taxes aren’t just a March and April conversation. The decisions you make throughout the year—from how you save for retirement to how you handle health care—can directly affect…

Welcome back to the Dollar Wise Podcast. In this episode, Andrew Barnhardt and Brett Herron of HFM Advisors dive into the world of above-the-line tax deductions. These often-overlooked deductions can reduce your adjusted gross income and improve your eligibility for other tax benefits. From retirement contributions and HSAs to student loan interest and self-employment tax breaks, Andrew and Brett break down how these deductions work, why they matter, and how to take advantage of them. Whether you're planning for next April or the next decade, this episode offers a practical look at reducing your tax bill. Tune into this episode…