In this episode of The Flywheel Effect, hosts Brent Sonnek-Schmelz and Matt Bernath introduce their 2025 Book Club initiative and discuss key strategies for year-end business planning. They emphasize the value of continuous learning and strategic financial decision-making to set businesses up for success.

They challenge the idea of tax-driven spending sprees, urging business owners to make intentional investments rather than unnecessary purchases. The discussion highlights how Q4 can be a highly profitable period by leveraging seasonal urgency and premium services.

Brent and Matt outline simple but effective metrics for business owners to track, focusing on completed projects, average project value, and operating costs. They stress the importance of aligning team performance with long-term business goals, making necessary staffing adjustments, and optimizing operations.

The episode provides actionable insights that luxury home service business owners can apply immediately to improve profitability and enter 2025 with a clear strategic plan.

Guest-at-a-Glance

💡 Hosts: Brent Sonnek-Schmelz and Matt Bernath

Key Insights

Year-End Spending Requires Strategic Thinking

Tax planning goes beyond cutting checks to reduce tax burden. Smart business owners focus on investments that build future growth. Consider moving planned Q1 purchases to Q4 when manufacturers offer deals. This timing helps with taxes and creates better cash flow. Look for opportunities like prepaying next year's rent or upgrading equipment when prices drop. The best moves serve two purposes: they reduce tax liability and strengthen your business position. Think about investments that generate revenue, such as new vehicles with zero-percent financing or marketing tools that drive sales. This approach keeps more cash in your business for growth opportunities.

Turn Q4 into Your Best Quarter

 Business seasonality often becomes a self-fulfilling prophecy. Rather than accepting Q4 as a slow period, successful companies leverage the holiday season's unique opportunities. By positioning your business as reliable for time-sensitive holiday projects and offering completion guarantees, you can command premium pricing. This approach transforms what many view as a challenging period into a high-profit quarter. The key lies in early planning, starting in September or October, to properly structure and price these opportunities while maintaining quality service delivery.

Three Numbers That Drive Growth

Start business planning with three key numbers: total projects completed, average project value, and basic costs. Track these consistently, even with basic tools. This data shows where to focus growth efforts - either boost project values or increase completion rates. Set targets based on real numbers, not guesses. Know your costs to maintain profits while growing. Update these numbers monthly to spot trends and opportunities. This simple system helps make better decisions about pricing, hiring, and resource use.