The Real Buzz

Hosted by Eric & Melissa Broughton

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Latest episode

Dec 2025

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EN-US

About the show

The Real Buzz, a podcast designed with small business owners in mind who are serious about reducing their tax liability. Hosted by accounting and tax experts, Eric and Melissa Broughton of Busy Bee Advisors, this informative, and yes, even entertaining, podcast focuses on sharing forward thinking strategies to help you get organized, plan ahead and ultimately pay less in taxes. As small business owners themselves, they walk the walk and boy do they talk the talk. Their unexpected down-to-earth style and practical, actionable strategies provide what you’ll need to insure your most efficient tax strategy.Visit www.busybeeadvisors.com for all podcast episodes, practical resources and more.

Listen to episodes

28 recent

December 4, 202544 min

Episode 27: Big Beautiful Bill. Year End Tax Strategies For S Corps and More.

Eric and I would love to hear from you. Tell us what you think of the podcast.Are you aware of the looming tax bracket pitfalls that could surprise small business owners and individuals alike? I'm going to pull back the curtain on the complex world of personal taxes in light of the influential "big beautiful bill." We unpack how the Tax Cuts and Jobs Act (TCJA) has forever altered tax brackets, emphasizing the strategic advantages of maintaining a position within the 24% tax bracket to sidestep the hefty increase to 32%. Learn about the vital updates to tax credits, such as the child and dependent care credit, and the upcoming changes to energy efficiency credits projected for 2026, which could significantly influence your financial decisions.Maximizing your tax deductions has never been more critical, and this episode equips you with the strategies you need. We examine the benefits of itemizing deductions over the standard deduction, spotlighting how the increased SALT deduction limit presents significant savings opportunities, particularly in high-tax states. From understanding the implications of gambling winnings to crafting a plan for charitable contributions, we explore various avenues to trim your taxable income. With new laws set to benefit non-itemizers by 2026, the time to act is now.Finally, we shift our focus towards the future, emphasizing the importance of strategic financial planning for upcoming generations. I offer insights into how prudent decisions, like utilizing tax-free accounts and staying abreast of changes in estate and gift tax laws, can pave the way for lasting wealth. As the holiday season approaches, I extend warm wishes and remind our listeners that the team at Busy B Advisors is ready to assist with any tax queries you might have. Wishing you a prosperous year-end and successful financial planning!To learn more about Busy Bee accounting and services, or to simply connect with Eric or Melissa, find them at Busy Bee Advisors.

November 6, 202532 min

Episode 26: Mastering Year End Small Business Taxes While Navigating the 'One Big Beautiful Bill'

Eric and I would love to hear from you. Tell us what you think of the podcast.Can you afford to ignore the game-changing tax shifts coming your way? This episode Eric goes solo to break down the seismic changes introduced by the "Big Beautiful Bill" that could transform your small business's financial strategy. He dives into the end of electric vehicle tax credits, the allure of permanent bonus depreciation, and the boosted credits for employer-provided childcare. He also clarifies how the IRS categorizes small businesses, revealing that many of you might be eligible for these benefits without even realizing it.Proper tax filing has never been more crucial, and there's a playbook to guide you. Listen as Eric highlights the importance of meticulous record-keeping, particularly with the upcoming increase in the 1099 threshold, and how this impacts compliance. Learn how to maximize your tax benefits through effective strategies like bonus depreciation, and understand the importance of providing detailed financial reports to avoid IRS complications. Whether you're a seasoned entrepreneur or just starting your small business, these insights, paired with professional advice, will ensure you're fully equipped to navigate these changes and keep your small business thriving.To learn more about Busy Bee accounting and services, or to simply connect with Eric or Melissa, find them at Busy Bee Advisors.

April 3, 202524 min

Episode 25: Using a Budget to Put Your Business on a Diet... and Other Helpful Tips.

Eric and I would love to hear from you. Tell us what you think of the podcast.Does your business need a financial "diet"? Picture the days when families managed their budgets with physical cash, a practice that seems distant in today's cashless society. Join me as I share personal anecdotes about these nostalgic times and explore the challenges that emerge with the shift to digital payments. Younger generations, in particular, face hurdles in budgeting and debt management, and it's crucial to address these issues to maintain healthy finances. As businesses increasingly rely on digital transactions, we discuss how this convenience must be matched with strategic financial planning to avoid pitfalls like overspending.Subscriptions, often the silent drain on resources, are another key focus. Many of us have discovered unused app subscriptions eating away at our budgets, both personal and business. The importance of reviewing these expenses annually cannot be overstated, and we offer concrete tips on canceling those that no longer serve you. Budgeting is not just about numbers; it's about making intentional spending choices that pave the way for financial growth. Additionally, we explore tax reduction strategies personalized to individual circumstances, advocating for professional guidance to effectively lower tax liabilities. For more insights and updates on your path to financial wellness visit our website HERE.To learn more about Busy Bee accounting and services, or to simply connect with Eric or Melissa, find them at Busy Bee Advisors.

March 7, 202543 min

Episode 24: Making Tax Strategy Work for You. The Top Five Things to do.

Eric and I would love to hear from you. Tell us what you think of the podcast.Join me on a solo journey as I navigate the whirlwind of tax preparation during the busy season. I'll share my personal experiences with the challenges of hiring new tax preparers, drawing parallels to the unpredictability of home renovations. As we prepare to welcome new team members later in the year, I'll also discuss our recent speaking engagements and the surprising joy I find in breakout sessions over keynotes. A hot topic often arises: can new business owners rely on off-the-shelf tax software instead of professional tax preparers? I'll break down the limitations of these software solutions and the traditional tax preparers, contrasting them with the comprehensive support a tax strategist can offer.Listen in as I unravel the complexities of the U.S. tax system, especially the challenges it poses for small business owners. With over 6,500 pages of tax code, navigating it without professional help can be daunting. I emphasize the value of a knowledgeable tax professional who can interpret these laws and identify opportunities, reducing the anxiety around audits. By understanding that the tax system is self-reported, I highlight the importance of informed decision-making to ensure you're not leaving money on the table.Explore the benefits of proactive tax strategies and personalized advice in optimizing your small business tax obligations. Discover the advantages of becoming a corporation and how it can aid in business growth, especially when income thresholds are met. We'll discuss the significance of outsourcing and delegation to avoid the "key man problem" and achieve a semblance of work-life balance. With a focus on tailored tax guidance, I'll invite you to engage with us for insights and strategies that suit your unique circumstances, promising a more efficient and personalized tax planning experience.Chapter Summaries(00:00) Tax Preparation and Software ComparisonSolo journey through tax preparation challenges, hiring new team members, speaking engagements, and benefits of personalized tax planning.(07:36) Navigating the Complex Tax CodeNature's complex tax system requires professional help, leads to over-caution in reporting, and demands informed decision-making.(17:23) Strategies for Small Business Tax BenefitsNature's toolkit for small business owners includes a proactive tax strategist and smarter tax planning.(27:24) Benefits of Becoming a CorporationBenefits of incorporating for small businesses, outsourcing to avoid key man problem, and strategies for growth and work-life balance.(40:25) Personalized Tax Guidance and ConsultationPersonalized advice, situation-specific strategies, and the importance of individual needs in our industry.To learn more about Busy Bee accounting and services, or to simply connect with Eric or Melissa, find them at Busy Bee Advisors.

November 6, 202437 min

Episode 23: Must Know Year End Tax Strategies for Business Owners. The Rest of the Story.

Eric and I would love to hear from you. Tell us what you think of the podcast.Ever wondered why delaying your tax filings could cost you more than you think? Join us, Melissa and Eric, as we unfold the critical financial strategies every business owner must consider at the start of a new year. We'll guide you through the essential steps to optimize your finances, focusing on the importance of reviewing your profit and loss statements and exploring options for managing unexpected profits. Discover why filing for extensions might not always be the best choice and learn about beneficial approaches like profit-sharing with employees or increasing your 401k contributions to make the most of tax deductions.Getting your financial house in order is no small feat, especially when avoiding the pitfalls of last-minute tax filings. We share effective strategies for organizing your financial documents early, ensuring your tax professionals have everything they need to provide top-notch service. Our engaging anecdotes reveal how significant transactions can slip through the cracks without timely communication, highlighting the necessity of proactive planning and thorough documentation for accurate tax filings. We strongly emphasize that extensions should only be a last resort, with early preparation being key to success.Transitioning from an employee to an entrepreneur mindset can be transformative for both your business and personal growth. We explore the fundamental differences between operating as an owner versus an employee, stressing the impact of adopting an owner's mentality. This episode offers valuable insights into financial planning and optimization, urging business owners to stick to a yearly budget, manage debt effectively, and make strategic decisions that promote growth and stability. With resources like year-end and beginning-of-year checklists, we empower you to take command of your financial future and invest in your business as you would in your family's legacy.To learn more about Busy Bee accounting and services, or to simply connect with Eric or Melissa, find them at Busy Bee Advisors.

October 2, 2024Episode 2230 min

Episode 22: Streamline Your Year-End Tax Prep: Essential Tips for Business Owners

Eric and I would love to hear from you. Tell us what you think of the podcast.Can confusing expense categories sabotage your year-end tax preparation? On this episode of Real Buzz, join us, Melissa and Eric, as we unpack the critical year-end tax tips every business owner needs to know. We shine a light on the hidden dangers of vague bookkeeping categories like "Miscellaneous" and "Uncategorized Expenses" and share savvy strategies to ensure your financial records are IRS-ready. With insights on how to collaborate effectively with your bookkeeper, you’ll learn to tidy up your balance sheet and streamline your documentation process for a stress-free tax season.But that's not all—We'll also also guide you through alternative tax strategies to get the most out of your business's finances. From innovative compensation plans like student loan repayments to navigating the complexities of health insurance premiums for S-corporation owners, we cover it all. We also explore the best practices for year-end financial preparations, highlighting the debate between actual vehicle expenses and mileage deductions. Plus, discover unique ways to appreciate your employees beyond the traditional cash bonus, and why consulting a trusted tax professional is crucial. Don't miss out on practical tips that could transform your approach to tax preparation. The time to plan your year end strategies is now, so let's get started!For more information or to ask a question, visit us at https://busybeeadvisors.com/?utm_medium=organic&utm_source=gbpChapter Summaries:(00:00) Year-End Tax Preparation TipsBusiness expenses should be clearly defined and categorized, with annual review and collaboration with bookkeepers for efficient tax preparation.(11:03) Tax Strategies for Business OwnersExploring employee compensation and benefits, including student loan repayments and health insurance for S-corporation owners.(21:36) End of Year Financial PreparationsThe importance of accurate business records, choosing between actual expenses or mileage deductions, and alternatives to cash bonuses.To learn more about Busy Bee accounting and services, or to simply connect with Eric or Melissa, find them at Busy Bee Advisors.

September 4, 2024Episode 2118 min

Episode 21: Maximize Your Tax Returns: When It's Crucial to File an Amended Return

Eric and I would love to hear from you. Tell us what you think of the podcast.Could an amended tax return save you thousands? Join us, Melissa and Eric, as we break down the essentials of filing an amended tax return in this episode of The Real Buzz. We cover the scenarios where amendments are not only beneficial but necessary—think unclaimed business expenses or missed major numbers. We tackle listener questions, including whether it's worth filing an amendment to report lower income, and stress the importance for business owners to meticulously review their returns to maximize deductions. Learn practical tips on collaborating with tax professionals and how proactive tax strategies can significantly reduce your tax liability.When it comes to discovering unreported income, the stakes are high. Imagine missing a $17,000 1099 income on your tax return—that’s a scenario we dissect to highlight the importance of filing an amended return. Ignoring such discrepancies can lead to hefty federal and state tax liabilities and penalties. We shed light on the structure of the IRS and how they handle revenue recovery, emphasizing the need for timely corrections. Don't forget to subscribe and leave a positive review!To connect with us, please visit the website, https://busybeeadvisors.com/Episode highlights(02:53 - 04:04) Consider Amending Tax Return Costs(09:35 - 11:07) Tax Implications of Late 1099 Income(14:36 - 15:55) Navigating IRS Communication and ResolutionChapter Summaries(00:00) When to File an Amended ReturnAmended tax returns can be beneficial for missed numbers or expenses, and business owners should review and understand their returns.(09:25) Understanding the Importance of Amended Returns"Nature's revenue recovery process and potential consequences of unreported income, emphasizing the importance of timely correction and cooperation.(17:15) Tax Tips Disclaimer and Thank YouUnique tax strategies for entertainment, emphasizing personalized advice and the importance of consulting a professional for tailored guidance.To learn more about Busy Bee accounting and services, or to simply connect with Eric or Melissa, find them at Busy Bee Advisors.

August 9, 2024Episode 2049 min

Episode 20: Unlocking Tax Savings: Mastering S-Corp Strategies for Small Business Success

Eric and I would love to hear from you. Tell us what you think of the podcast.Is your small business missing out on valuable tax savings? Discover how you can leverage S-Corporation (S-Corp) status to potentially save thousands, as we break down the tax advantages and strategic considerations for small businesses. Comparing S-Corps to sole proprietorships and partnerships, we reveal how S-Corps can significantly reduce self-employment tax. We'll also guide you through the compliance requirements and discuss situations where an S-Corp might not be the optimal choice, especially when profitability is low.Transitioning from a sole proprietorship to an S-Corp can be daunting, but we're here to simplify the process. Learn about the essential steps, such as setting up new accounts with your EIN and understanding the financial implications of becoming a pass-through entity. We emphasize the benefits for businesses with profits of $60,000 or more and explain how profits or losses pass through to shareholders via a K-1 form. Active financial management, including setting a reasonable salary and adjusting for variable income, is critical. Our conversation also highlights the potential tax benefits of reducing payroll taxes by only taxing a portion of your income.Unlock further tax optimization strategies with tips on selling personal property to your S-Corp, leveraging home office reimbursements, and maximizing fringe benefit deductions. We delve into fair market value appraisals, the 14-day rental rule, and effective expense reimbursements. Plus, we're thrilled to announce the release of "The 4-Hour Bookkeeper," our latest book aimed at helping small business owners streamline their bookkeeping tasks. Tune in for actionable insights and practical advice to optimize your S-Corp's financial health and tax benefits!To connect with us, visit the website: https://busybeeadvisors.com/To purchase the book visit: https://www.amazon.com/4-Hour-Bookkeeper-Melissa-Broughton/dp/1962133737Episode Highlights(03:38 - 05:05) Tax Advantages of S-Corps(08:17 - 08:50) Transitioning From Sole Proprietor to S-Corp(13:19 - 14:39) S-Corp Payroll Requirements and Guidance(19:29 - 20:40) Tax Strategy(26:36 - 27:35) Selling Rental Property to S-Corp(31:36 - 32:48) Rental Strategy for Personal Residence(36:01 - 37:28) Reimbursing Vehicle Expenses for Tax PurposesChapter Summaries(00:00) Tax Strategies for S-CorpsS-Corps offer tax advantages and strategic considerations for small businesses, but may not be best for all scenarios.(08:02) S-Corp Tax Strategies OverviewS-Corp transition, financial cut-off point, separate business entities, pass-through entity, strategic advantages, K-1 distribution.(11:52) S-Corp Tax Optimization StrategiesManaging finances as an S-Corp includes setting a reasonable salary, adjusting for variable income, and leveraging tax benefits.(23:03) S-Corp Property Sale StrategySell personal property to S-Corp to leverage home sale exclusion and extract tax-free value in the future.(26:36) S-Corp Tax Optimization StrategiesManaging rental properties in an S-corp, fair market value considerations, home office reimbursements, and leveraging the 14-day rental rule.(38:33) S-Corp Fringe Benefit DeductionsNature's strategies for managing business expenses include reimbursing travel and cell phone costs for tax benefits.(45:28) Bookkeeper Book ReleaTo learn more about Busy Bee accounting and services, or to simply connect with Eric or Melissa, find them at Busy Bee Advisors.

July 10, 2024Episode 1933 min

Episode 19: Top 10 Tax Strategies for Sole Proprietors: Maximize Deductions and Save Money!

Eric and I would love to hear from you. Tell us what you think of the podcast.Can flowers and fruit really cut down your tax bill? Join your hosts Melissa and Eric on the Real Buzz podcast as Melissa and Eric unravel their top 10 tax strategies specifically tailored for sole proprietors. We promise, tax talk doesn't have to be boring! From the ins and outs of fully deducting cell phone expenses to the often-misunderstood nuances of claiming foreign travel expenses, this episode is packed with invaluable tips you can apply immediately to optimize your tax return.But that's not all! We also take a fun look at how seemingly trivial items like flowers, fruit, and even books can be tax-deductible when cleverly used in your business. Discover the hidden goldmine of tax benefits within your home office, including how to measure your space accurately and potentially rent from a spouse to unlock more deductions. With practical advice wrapped in a little humor, this episode aims to transform your approach to tax planning and make you a savvy sole proprietor.Episode Highlight timestamps(00:59 - 02:58) Tax Strategies for Sole Proprietors(07:45 - 08:48) Establishing Mileage Tracking Baseline(11:58 - 12:43) Deducting Unusual Business Expenses(19:24 - 20:49) Tax Benefits of Renting From Spouse(24:04 - 25:03) Maximize Tax Benefits With Spouse Employment(27:21 - 29:07) Tax Deductions for Small BusinessesChapter summaries(00:00) Tax Strategies for Sole ProprietorsMaximize tax benefits as a sole proprietor by understanding and documenting cell phone and travel expenses.(12:01) Business Deductions and Home Office ExpensesNature's surprising tax deductions for businesses, including flowers, fruit, books, and home office expenses.(15:47) Maximizing Business Deductions for Sole ProprietorsNature's home office deductions: accurate measurements, percentage calculation, renting from spouse, consulting with tax professional.To learn more about Busy Bee accounting and services, or to simply connect with Eric or Melissa, find them at Busy Bee Advisors.

June 6, 2024Episode 1827 min

Episode 18: Elevating Your Assets and Securing Your Financial Future with Kelly Brothers of CAPTRUST.

Eric and I would love to hear from you. Tell us what you think of the podcast.Join us as we sit down with the ever-charismatic Kelly Brothers, who not only regales us with tales of his switch from a TV news anchor to a financial advisor but also imparts his wealth of knowledge on wealth management. Kelly, a sage in the realm of financial planning with CAPTRUST, discusses the nitty-gritty of investment management and legacy planning, offering his seasoned perspective on assisting both W-2 employees and business owners. His insights into California's tax landscape and how it shapes client decisions add a layer of depth to our lively exchange. Throughout, expect to be both entertained and enlightened by personal anecdotes and our easy-going banter that makes this financial talk anything but dull.As the conversation unfolds, we explore the critical role of financial literacy and retirement planning in achieving long-term stability. Eric and I open up about how setting up Roth IRAs for our kids has been a practical lesson in investing and taxes, emphasizing the boon of tax-free growth. With the government shifting the retirement planning responsibility onto individuals, we stress the urgency of early financial education. We also dissect the strategies behind tax loss harvesting, highlighting how advances in trading platforms have made it more accessible. Whether you're someone who thrives on self-directed learning or you lean towards trusting the experts, this episode offers valuable guidance on navigating the often perplexing world of personal finance and tax strategies.To learn more about CAPTRUST you can reach Kelly directly: kelly.brothers@captrust.comOr visit https://www.captrust.com/CHAPTERS(00:00) Financial Advisor Discusses Wealth ManagementFinancial advisor Kelly Brothers discusses his transition from news anchor to advisor, services for individuals and businesses, and California's tax environment.(07:30) Financial Literacy and Retirement PlanningFinancial literacy, investment strategies, and government programs for retirement planning and business owners in California.(16:05) Financial Planning and Tax StrategiesStrategic tax loss harvesting, financial advisor guidance, tax code complexities, and emotional impact of tax decisions.HIGHLIGHT TIMESTAMPS(04:56 - 06:53) Financial Planning for Diverse Client Base(14:58 - 16:04) Retirement Savings(17:58 - 19:22) Estate Tax Law Changes and Advice(23:51 - 25:10) Financial Advisor Availability and Contact InformationTo learn more about Busy Bee accounting and services, or to simply connect with Eric or Melissa, find them at Busy Bee Advisors.