Scaling to between 50 and 149 employees is a critical growth phase that brings new challenges in HR, compliance, and company culture. In this episode of MTG, Mike Vannoy, Mary Simmons, and Brian Shenker explore the essential strategies businesses need to navigate this transition successfully. From training managers and establishing structured HR processes to ensuring compliance with FMLA, ACA, and EEO reporting, they break down what it takes to maintain efficiency and legal adherence as your workforce expands. Tune in to learn how to build a strong HR foundation and prepare for the next stage of growth.
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How can small businesses take advantage of Secure Act 2.0 tax credits to set up a 401k plan, attract and retain employees, and stay compliant with state mandates? In this episode, we’re diving into why 401k plans are a game-changer for small businesses. Many assume retirement plans are only for large corporations, but that’s no longer the case. With recent legislation like Secure Act 2.0 offering significant tax credits, setting up a 401k is more accessible and beneficial than ever. Joined by Charlie Cote from JP Morgan and Kevin Gaston from Vestwell, we’ll explore how small businesses can leverage these plans to attract and retain top talent, comply with evolving state mandates, and even build personal wealth as business owners.
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What does it take to scale a small business from 16 to 50 employees while maintaining compliance, culture, and efficiency? In this week’s episode of Mission To Grow, host Mike Vannoy leads a compelling panel discussion on scaling small businesses from 16 to 50 employees. Joined by HR experts Mary Simmons, Heather James, and Chris Cooley, the episode dives into the challenges and solutions of this pivotal growth phase. Topics include the importance of consistent processes, compliance with complex HR laws, effective recruitment strategies, and the role of HR tools like HRIS systems in ensuring smooth operations. Tune in for actionable insights to help your business navigate this transformative stage with confidence.
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How can small businesses with 1 to 15 employees avoid costly payroll errors, attract the right talent, and ensure compliance while building a strong company culture? In this week’s episode of Mission To Grow, host Mike Vannoy leads a panel discussion on essential HR practices for small businesses with 1 to 15 employees. Featuring insights from experts Jessica Small, Scott Petersen, and Mary Simmons, the conversation covers payroll accuracy, hiring strategies, compliance, employee engagement, and the importance of leveraging the right tools and systems. Tune in for actionable advice to streamline HR processes, foster employee satisfaction, and set your business up for success.
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Podchaser: https://www.podchaser.com/podcasts/mission-to-grow-a-small-busine-5591006
What are the tax advantages and compliance challenges of switching to an S Corporation, and how can business owners decide if it's the right move for their company?
This week on Mission to Grow, Mike Vannoy sits down with Jason Blumer, CEO of Blummer & Associates, for an insightful discussion on S Corporations. Together, they explore the advantages of S Corp classification, including significant tax savings, while unpacking the complexities of compliance, payroll, and legal considerations. Whether you're an entrepreneur weighing the shift from an LLC or a sole proprietorship, or a small business owner striving to optimize your tax strategy, this episode is brimming with expert advice and practical tips to help you make informed decisions. Don’t miss this deep dive into the world of S Corps!
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As the year comes to a close, what steps can small businesses take to ensure FLSA compliance, maximize tax credits, and position themselves for growth in the new year?
This week on Mission to Grow, Mike Vannoy brings together an all-star lineup of experts, including Mary Simmons, Richard Tatum, Shannon Scott, and Janel Weinke, for the Best of 2024 Compilation. In this special episode, they delve into pivotal business topics like Fair Labor Standards Act (FLSA) compliance, employee recruitment and retention strategies, the evolution of 401k plans, and employer tax credits. Packed with actionable insights and practical advice, this episode is a must-listen for business owners looking to enhance their operations, stay compliant, and leverage financial incentives to grow their companies. Don’t miss this invaluable discussion!
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What are the key strategies employers can adopt to navigate employee classifications effectively while ensuring compliance with the ever-changing FLSA minimum salary rules and fostering trust?
This week on Mission to Grow, Mike Vannoy engages in an in-depth discussion with Mary Simmons and Brian Shenker on the significant implications of the 5th Circuit's ruling on the Fair Labor Standards Act (FLSA) minimum salary rule. Mike, Mary, and Brian dissect the complexities surrounding the recent court decision that vacated the Department of Labor’s new rule, reverting it back to previous levels. Dive into this episode to understand the legal and practical ramifications for employers, strategies for handling employee classifications, maintaining compliance, and the importance of thorough job audits. It’s a crucial episode for any business owner navigating the ever-changing landscape of employment law. Don’t miss this essential conversation!
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In this episode, we dive into the latest updates in employment law and their implications for both business owners and employees in 2025. Our guest, Mary Simmons, explores how these changes will affect HR practices, including immigration enforcement, FLSA changes, the Pregnant Workers Fairness Act, I-9 updates, minimum wage increases, and evolving sick leave policies. We discuss the proactive steps business owners must take to stay compliant, such as conducting audits, updating handbooks, and training managers. The conversation also highlights the importance of clear communication and strategic planning in navigating these legal changes and maintaining a competitive edge in the labor market.
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How can employers leverage the benefits of offering earned wage access to not only enhance recruitment and retention but also to significantly improve employee productivity and engagement? In this episode, we delve into the transformative shift from traditional payday loans to on-demand pay models. We explore how digital advancements have led to new, cost-effective solutions that empower employees to access their earned wages without stigma or significant fees. This shift is facilitated by innovative banking models leveraging merchant fees to create a seamless and free experience for employees. We also discuss the profound benefits for employers, such as improved recruitment, retention, and productivity, driven by offering financial wellness tools.
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In this episode, we dive into the complexities surrounding garnishments in the workplace, including the differences between wage garnishments and wage assignments, how employers should handle multiple garnishments and the legal implications of terminating an employee due to garnishment. Our guest Brian Shenker shares expert advice on how to navigate these situations while ensuring compliance with federal and state laws.
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In this insightful episode, our guest Mary and host Mike dive into the critical role of Harassment training in fostering a respectful, productive, and legally protected workplace. Through real-life examples, Mary explains how training can proactively prevent issues, support team dynamics, and save companies from costly legal troubles. They also discuss the importance of culture in aligning employees with organizational values, promoting trust, and maximizing engagement.
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In this episode, we dive deep into the importance of personal branding, authentic marketing, and creating a human connection between businesses and their audiences. Our guest Philip VanDusen Founder and CCO at Verhaal Brand Design, emphasizes how companies, whether large corporations or small businesses, can engage more effectively with customers by showcasing a relatable, human side. We also discuss the role of personal branding for leaders, the effectiveness of behind-the-scenes content, and the importance of creating a cohesive employee and customer experience. Whether you're a restaurant owner, hair salon entrepreneur, or remodeling business, this episode is packed with actionable advice for boosting your brand visibility.
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What are the key challenges businesses face when scaling from $1 million to $5 million in revenue, and how can understanding the concept of the 'black hole' help entrepreneurs navigate these growth plateaus? In this episode, our guest Greg Crabtree, Partner at Carr, Riggs & Ingram, delves into the intricate dynamics of business growth, staffing strategies, and labor efficiency. Our discussion highlights the challenges companies face when scaling, particularly between the critical revenue thresholds of $1 million to $5 million. We explore the concept of the "black hole," the significance of labor efficiency ratios, and practical advice for breaking through growth plateaus without overstaffing.
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What strategies can organizations adopt to address the ongoing labor shortage and attract the right talent in today’s competitive job market? In this episode, we explore the future of work by rethinking job roles, hiring strategies, and the importance of creativity in the modern workforce with Anita Lettink Partner & Founder at hrtechradar. With labor shortages affecting businesses worldwide, it's essential to adapt by considering flexible work hours, outsourcing, and new technologies. Our guest discusses how businesses, both small and large, can tap into underutilized talent pools and rethink traditional methods to stay competitive.
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How can implementing an unlimited PTO policy empower employees and foster autonomy, while ensuring managers maintain productivity and set clear expectations for team success? In this episode, we dive into the evolving concept of unlimited PTO and its implications for both employees and employers. Our guest explores how this policy can empower employees, foster autonomy, and enhance work-life balance. At the same time, we address the challenges managers face in implementing and managing this policy, such as setting clear expectations and maintaining team productivity. The discussion touches on the social contract between employer and employee, the importance of clear communication, and the critical role of HR policies in ensuring smooth execution.
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How can employers navigate the complexities of accommodating pregnant workers while balancing operational needs and legal compliance under the new Pregnant Workers Fairness Act (PWFA)? In this episode, we dive into the complexities of the Pregnant Workers Fairness Act (PWFA) and its implications for employers. Our guest expert unpacks the law's key aspects, including temporary removal of essential job functions, accommodating pregnant employees, the importance of documentation, and understanding undue hardship. Through practical examples from the EEOC’s final rules, this episode guides employers on how to navigate the PWFA while keeping compliance top of mind.
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In this episode, we look back at the 8 chapters of the HR Benchmark Report. Mary Simmons and Mike Vannoy spent 8 weeks discussing the results from the Report and breaking down the importance of each segment in fast-growth vs no-growth companies. In this recap, we take the best segments from each section and bring you a brief look into the series.
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In this episode, we dive into the often-overlooked strategies that business owners can implement to control workers' compensation costs. Rob Campbell, an industry expert, breaks down the three big buckets of cost control: risk management, claims management, and insurance policy management. We discuss the importance of HR infrastructure, company culture, and the surprising impact of 1099 contractors on workers' compensation. This episode is packed with actionable insights to help you better manage your workers' comp costs and improve your business's bottom line.
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In this episode, we sit back down with Mary Simmons to explore the significance of the employment brand and how post-employment practices can influence a company's revenue growth. Our hosts discuss key survey findings, showing the stark differences between fast-growing companies and zero-growth firms, particularly around how they manage termination processes, exit interviews, and employment brand perception.
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In this episode, we dive deep into Performance and everything that goes along with it. We explore how productivity is often more about the quality of work rather than quantity and discuss best practices for communicating job performance expectations. We also touch on the importance of formal performance reviews, the value of 360 reviews, and the role of documented performance improvement plans in managing underperforming employees.
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