Bennett Thrasher Presents: Beyond The Ledger

Bennett Thrasher

Explore “Beyond the Ledger,” Bennett Thrasher’s podcast where advisors and industry leaders look past the numbers to uncover the strategies, risks, and opportunities shaping today’s businesses. Each episode delivers timely insights across tax, advisory, and technology to help provide clarity through confident advisement.

  1. 21 Oct

    Beyond the Property Value: Real Estate Valuations & Estate Planning

    When it comes to estate planning, determining the value of real estate holdings involves more than just a property appraisal. From minority ownership interests and valuation discounts to documentation and IRS scrutiny, understanding the complexities is essential for effective estate and gift tax planning. In this episode of Beyond the Ledger, host Shardae Layfield sits down with Sarah DeKreek, Director in Bennett Thrasher’s Disputes, Valuation & Forensics practice, to explore how real estate holding companies are valued, the challenges of coordinating multiple appraisals and advisors, and the importance of defensible valuations. Discover practical strategies to streamline the valuation process, avoid common mistakes, and make more informed estate planning decisions. Key Takeaways Start Early: Beginning the valuation process early helps prevent delays, documentation gaps, and last-minute complications in estate planning.Understand the Difference: Real estate appraisals determine property values, while business valuations assess ownership interests in the entities holding those properties.Coordinate for Efficiency: Effective collaboration among attorneys, accountants, appraisers, and valuation professionals helps streamline complex, multi-entity engagements.Recognize Minority Interest Discounts: Discounts for lack of control and marketability can impact ownership interest values, making them worth less than a proportional share of the underlying assets.Prioritize Documentation: Current appraisals, governing agreements, financial records, and well-supported valuation conclusions are essential for defensible estate and gift tax reporting.Avoid Common Pitfalls: Outdated appraisals, overlooked ownership rights, and unsupported discounts can create unnecessary valuation risks.Chapters 00:00 – Introduction of Sarah DeKreek and Episode Overview 01:03 – Why Valuation Matters in Real Estate Estate Planning 02:15 – Understanding Ownership Interests in Real Estate Holding Companies 03:00 – Real Estate Appraisals vs. Business Valuations 08:13 – Managing Multiple Valuations and Coordination Challenges 15:19 – Why Minority Interests May Be Worth Less Than Pro-Rata Value 19:54 – Discounts for Lack of Control and Marketability 23:32 – Common Real Estate Valuation Mistakes to Avoid 27:31 – Preparing for Valuation Engagements: Essential Documentation 30:13 – Estate Planning Strategies and Tax Considerations 32:35 – Key Advice: Start Early and Plan Ahead   Connect with Our Guest Sarah DeKreek Director, Disputes, Valuation & Forensics | Bennett Thrasher LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/sarah-dekreek-42217711/  BT Bio: https://www.btcpa.net/people/sarah-dekreek Learn more about Bennett Thrasher’s Disputes, Valuation & Forensics services at btcpa.net. Connect with Our Host Shardae Layfield Host, Beyond the Ledger | Bennett Thrasher LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/shardae-layfield/ Follow Beyond the Ledger for more expert insights, business strategies, and conversations shaping today's business landscape. 🔗 Learn more: btcpa.net | Follow Bennett Thrasher for more conversations that move business forward.

  2. 13 Oct

    Is Your Software Business at Risk? The Hidden Risks Software Companies Can’t Afford to Ignore

    In this episode of Beyond the Ledger, host Shardae Layfield sits down with Adrien Echols, Director in Bennett Thrasher’s State and Local Tax practice, to uncover common sales tax pitfalls facing growing software companies. Adrien breaks down how different states tax software, why product classification and customer data matter, and how businesses can proactively address past exposure while building a stronger compliance strategy for future growth. Scaling a SaaS or software business brings exciting opportunities, but it can also trigger unexpected sales tax obligations. From economic nexus and product taxability to historical exposure and automation, staying compliant across multiple states can quickly become complicated.   Key Takeaways Rapid growth can create unexpected tax obligations. Expanding into new markets can trigger economic nexus, even without a physical presence in a state.Not all software is taxed equally. SaaS, downloaded software, and on-premise solutions may receive different tax treatment depending on state laws, delivery methods, and customer circumstances.Never assume software sales are non-taxable. Understanding product classification, exemptions, and customer types is essential to determining the correct tax treatment.Historical exposure requires a strategic approach. Voluntary Disclosure Agreements (VDAs) and other resolution options may help businesses address past liabilities while potentially reducing penalties.Automation is only as effective as the data behind it. Accurate product classifications, customer information, and tax configurations are critical to reliable compliance.Proactive planning supports sustainable growth. Regularly evaluating nexus, taxability, and compliance processes can help software businesses minimize risk as they expand across states.  Chapters 00:00 – Introduction: Sales Tax Challenges for SaaS Companies 01:29 – Common Sales Tax Pitfalls When Scaling a Software Business 02:05 – Understanding Physical and Economic Nexus 03:05 – The Myth That SaaS Sales Are Always Non-Taxable 04:28 – How Software Delivery Methods and Customer Types Affect Taxability 06:43 – When Growing Companies Should Evaluate Nexus 08:03 – Red Flags That Could Signal Sales Tax Exposure 09:22 – Addressing Historical Sales Tax Exposure 11:10 – When to Consider Voluntary Disclosure Agreements (VDAs) 13:38 – Why Product Classification and Data Accuracy Matter 16:54 – Preparing for Multistate Expansion and Compliance   Connect with the Guest Adrien Echols | Director, State and Local Tax, Bennett Thrasher Bennett Thrasher Bio: https://www.btcpa.net/people/adrien-echols LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/adrien-echols/ Learn more about Bennett Thrasher's State and Local Tax services at btcpa.net.   Connect with the Host Shardae Layfield | Host, Beyond the Ledger LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/shardae-layfield/ Follow Beyond the Ledger for more expert insights, business strategies, and conversations with industry leaders. 🔗 Learn more: btcpa.net | Follow Bennett Thrasher for more conversations that move business forward.

  3. 1 Oct

    More Than the Law: Mark Melton on Leadership, Entrepreneurship & Impact

    In this episode of Beyond the Ledger’s The Growth Exchange, host Shardae Layfield introduces Emily Ackerman, who sits down with Mark Melton, Partner and Co-Chair of the Tax, Executive Compensation and Benefits Practice Group at Holland & Knight, to explore a career shaped by resilience, entrepreneurship, mentorship, and a drive to create meaningful impact. Mark shares how early challenges and unexpected opportunities helped shape his path from humble beginnings to building a successful career in tax law. He reflects on the mentors who changed the trajectory of his life, the calculated risks that fueled his growth, and why building a successful practice requires much more than technical expertise. The conversation also explores Mark’s work founding the Dallas Eviction Advocacy Center (DEAC), how the organization responded to housing and legal challenges during the COVID-19 pandemic, and what the experience taught him about leadership, service, and using professional expertise to make a difference. Takeaways Mentorship can change the trajectory of a career. The right guidance, relationships, and willingness to ask for help can open opportunities that may otherwise never emerge.Growth requires calculated risk. Mark explains why successful entrepreneurs and business leaders need to balance thoughtful risk management with the willingness to make bold moves.Technical expertise alone doesn’t build a business. Growing a successful practice also requires relationship building, strategy, business development, and an understanding of people.Strong leaders value different perspectives. Building the right team means surrounding yourself with people who bring different strengths, experiences, and ways of thinking.Professional expertise can become a tool for social impact. Through DEAC, Mark demonstrates how business and legal skills can be applied to address challenges beyond the traditional workplace.Success and purpose don’t have to be separate. Mark’s journey illustrates how entrepreneurship, professional achievement, and community impact can intersect throughout a career.Chapters 00:00 – Introduction and Mark Melton’s Background 01:59 – Early Life and Challenges in Tulsa 03:45 – Meeting Mentors and the Power of Cold Calling 06:13 – From Law School to International Tax Experience 10:00 – Entrepreneurial Spirit and Building a Practice 12:48 – Client Insights and Current Market Concerns 15:03 – Lessons from Law School and Building a Business 19:50 – Founding the Dallas Eviction Advocacy Center 23:56 – COVID-19, Legal System Challenges and Social Impact 27:02 – Writing Injustice of the Peace and Personal Stories 29:11 – Future Plans and Building a Legacy 31:04 – Work-Life Balance and Personal Reflections   Connect with the Guest Mark Melton Holland & Knight Bio: https://www.hklaw.com/en/professionals/m/melton-mark-a LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/mark-melton-144b225/ DEAC: https://www.dallaseac.org/ Learn more about Mark Melton and his work in tax law, entrepreneurship, and community advocacy.   Connect with the Featured Interviewer Emily Ackerman Bennett Thrasher Bio: https://www.btcpa.net/people/emily-ackerman LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/emilyackermandfw/ Learn more about Emily and Bennett Thrasher’s Southwest Region at btcpa.net.   Connect with the Host Shardae Layfield LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/shardaelayfield/ Follow Beyond the Ledger for more conversations with entrepreneurs, innovators, and business leaders. 🔗 Learn more: btcpa.net | Follow Bennett Thrasher for more conversations that move business forward.

  4. 31 Aug

    The New Era of Inbound Investment: Why Global Companies Are Choosing the U.S.

    In this episode of Beyond the Ledger, host Shardae Layfield sits down with Matt Pellegrom, Partner in Bennett Thrasher’s International Tax Practice, to explore the evolving landscape of foreign investment in the United States. As global tax reform, shifting trade policies, supply chain realignment, and economic uncertainty reshape international business decisions, Matt explains why the U.S. continues to attract foreign-parented companies and what leaders should consider before entering the market. The conversation covers tax and entity structuring, operational and commercial considerations, common market-entry pitfalls, and why early, cross-functional planning can create a stronger foundation for long-term U.S. growth.   Takeaways The U.S. Remains an Attractive Market: Access to one of the world’s largest consumer markets, opportunities to build brand recognition, and a strong commercial environment continue to make the U.S. an appealing destination for foreign investment. Tax Is Only Part of the Decision: Successful U.S. expansion requires companies to evaluate operational, commercial, legal, financing, and market considerations alongside their international tax strategy. Structure Matters From the Start: Choosing the right U.S. entity and operating structure can have long-term implications for taxes, legal obligations, financing, and future growth. Early Planning Can Prevent Costly Surprises: Addressing tax exposure, state-specific requirements, permanent establishment concerns, and operational needs before entering the market can help companies avoid unnecessary complexity and costs. Cross-Functional Collaboration Is Critical: Inbound investment touches tax, finance, legal, HR, treasury, operations, and executive leadership, making coordination across teams essential to a successful expansion. Global Uncertainty Requires a Proactive Strategy: Changing tax policies, trade dynamics, geopolitical risks, and supply chain shifts reinforce the importance of building flexibility into U.S. investment strategies. Successful Expansion Takes a Long-Term View: Companies that approach U.S. investment with clear objectives, thoughtful structuring, strong local presence, and coordinated planning are better positioned for sustainable growth.   Chapters 00:00 Introduction to the U.S. inbound investment landscape 01:25 Impact of recent tax reforms and global initiatives 03:49 Why the U.S. remains a top destination for foreign investment 05:56 Factors making U.S. business entry easier 07:19 Operational and commercial considerations beyond tax 09:16 Choosing the right U.S. business structure 11:42 Planning for a U.S. presence and avoiding permanent establishment issues 13:07 Pre-investment planning and common pitfalls 15:54 Unexpected challenges in U.S. market entry 18:40 The importance of cross-functional collaboration 20:20 Future trends and preparing for global changes 22:13 Characteristics of successful inbound investments 23:10 The role of early legal and tax planning 24:04 Final advice for U.S. expansion planning   Connect with the Guest Matt Pellegrom Bennett Thrasher Bio: https://www.btcpa.net/people/matt-pellegrom LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/matt-pellegrom/ Learn more about Matt and Bennett Thrasher’s International Tax capabilities at btcpa.net. Connect with the Host: Shardae Layfield LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/shardae-layfield/ Connect with Shardae on LinkedIn and follow Beyond the Ledger for more conversations with business and industry leaders. 🔗 Learn more: btcpa.net | Follow Bennett Thrasher for more conversations that move business forward.

  5. 27 Aug

    “Missed an FBAR? The Rules Just Changed” with “Beyond the Ledger: Blitz Chats”

    Missed an FBAR? The Rules Just Changed In this episode of Beyond the Ledger: Blitz Chats, host Shardae Layfield  sits down with Matt Pellegrom, Partner in Bennett Thrasher’s International Tax Practice, to break down a significant change to the FBAR reporting landscape. With the IRS eliminating its Delinquent FBAR Submission Procedures, taxpayers who discover missed filings may face a different path forward. Matt explains who may have an FBAR filing requirement, the potential risks and penalties associated with delinquent filings, why acting quickly matters, and what individuals and businesses should consider before deciding their next step. Takeaways FBAR Requirements Extend Beyond Individuals: U.S. persons with a financial interest in or authority over certain foreign financial accounts may have an FBAR filing requirement, making it important for both individuals and businesses to understand their potential obligations. The Delinquent FBAR Process Has Changed: The IRS eliminated the Delinquent FBAR Submission Procedures, removing a pathway that previously allowed certain taxpayers with overdue FBARs to address missed filings without penalties. Missed FBARs Can Carry Significant Risk: Penalties can vary substantially depending on the circumstances and whether a failure is considered willful or non-willful, with serious cases potentially carrying significant financial consequences. Waiting Could Increase Exposure: Once a taxpayer becomes aware of a potential missed filing, choosing not to address it could create additional risk—particularly if the IRS determines the taxpayer knowingly failed to comply. Professional Guidance Is Critical: Individuals and businesses that believe they may have delinquent FBARs should consult a qualified tax professional to understand their circumstances, evaluate available options, and determine an appropriate path forward. Chapters 00:00 – Introduction  Welcome to Beyond the Ledger: Blitz Chats and an introduction to the changing FBAR reporting environment. 00:25 – What Is an FBAR?  Understanding the Foreign Bank and Financial Accounts Report, who may be required to file, and why FBAR compliance matters. 02:05 – What Changed?  A look at the elimination of the IRS Delinquent FBAR Submission Procedures and what the change means for taxpayers. 04:10 – Who Could Be Impacted?  The individuals, businesses, partnerships, trusts, and other taxpayers that should be evaluating potential foreign account reporting obligations. 05:35 – What Happens If You Missed an FBAR?  Potential penalties and risks associated with discovering an unfiled FBAR from a prior year. 07:15 – Why Does Acting Quickly Matter?  How delaying action after becoming aware of a missed filing could potentially increase a taxpayer’s exposure. 08:35 – What Should Taxpayers Do Now?  Why taxpayers should seek professional guidance before determining how to address potentially delinquent FBAR filings.   Connect with the Guest Matt Pellegrom Bennett Thrasher Bio: https://www.btcpa.net/people/matt-pellegrom LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/matt-pellegrom/ Learn more about Matt and Bennett Thrasher’s International Tax capabilities at btcpa.net. Connect with the Host Shardae Layfield LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/shardaelayfield/ Follow Beyond the Ledger and its sub-series Blitz Chats for timely insights, emerging issues, and expert perspectives on the developments affecting businesses and individuals. 🔗 Learn more: btcpa.net | Follow Bennett Thrasher for more conversations that move business forward.

  6. 19 Aug

    Why Your Sales Tax Software Isn’t Enough: The Hidden Risks Costing Businesses Thousands

    In this episode of Beyond the Ledger, host Shardae Layfield sits down with DiAndria “Dee” Green, Partner in Bennett Thrasher’s State and Local Tax Practice, to explore why sales tax automation alone isn’t enough to keep businesses compliant. While platforms like Avalara and Anrok can streamline compliance, missed filings, unresolved notices, credit balances, reconciliation issues, and changing nexus obligations can still expose businesses to costly risks. Dee shares the warning signs companies should watch for, the processes that help close compliance gaps, and how proactive oversight can help businesses stay ahead as they grow. Takeaways Automation Still Requires Oversight: Sales tax software can simplify compliance, but businesses still need the right processes, configurations, testing, and ongoing management to identify issues technology alone may not catch. Hidden Risks Can Become Costly: Sales tax problems may go unnoticed until they create significant exposure. A real-world example demonstrates how a process that appears to be running smoothly can still result in unexpected tax, penalties, and interest. Compliance Goes Beyond Filing Returns: Regular procedures and ongoing monitoring can help businesses uncover issues before they develop into larger and more expensive compliance problems. Reconciliation Is a Critical Control: Reconciling invoicing systems with sales tax software can help businesses identify discrepancies and strengthen their overall compliance process. Growth Creates New Obligations: As businesses expand, monitoring economic nexus thresholds is essential for identifying when new registration and filing requirements may be triggered. Proactive Support Can Help Businesses Stay Ahead: Managing notices, credits, refunds, nexus obligations, and other ongoing responsibilities can require significant attention. The right combination of technology and experienced oversight can help businesses build a more sustainable compliance approach as they grow. Chapters 00:00 Introduction to sales tax compliance challenges 00:12 Dee Green's expertise in sales tax 00:56 Why automation alone isn't sufficient 01:26 Misconceptions about sales tax platforms 02:13 The importance of oversight and management 03:07 Early warning signs of compliance issues 04:01 Configuring and testing automated solutions 06:20 Case study: Hidden penalties and lessons learned 09:14 Ongoing procedures for compliance 12:54 Reconciliation and its significance 16:11 Monitoring economic nexus thresholds 18:27 Managing notices, credits, and refunds 20:46 Outsourced sales tax support and benefits 26:20 Evolving sales tax rules and future trends 28:39 Maintaining compliance for future growth 29:38 Final thoughts and partnership approach Connect with the Guest: DiAndria “Dee” Green Bennett Thrasher Bio: DiAndria “Dee” Green LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/thesaltylawyerdee/ Connect with the Host: Shardae Layfield LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/shardae-layfield/ 🔗 Learn more: btcpa.net | Follow Bennett Thrasher for more conversations that move business forward.

  7. 6 Aug

    Unlocking Hidden Opportunities: R&D Tax Credits for Manufacturers

    In this episode of Beyond the Ledger, host Shardae Layfield sits down with Nina Desai, Partner in Bennett Thrasher's Credits & Incentives Practice, and Julie Hagan, who works closely with manufacturers to identify innovation across their operations, to discuss how manufacturers can uncover valuable R&D tax credit opportunities hidden within their everyday operations. From process improvements and automation to custom engineering and production challenges, they explain what truly qualifies, debunk common misconceptions, and share practical guidance on documentation, eligibility, and how these incentives can help manufacturers reinvest in future growth and innovation. Takeaways Innovation Happens on the Shop Floor: Many manufacturers assume R&D tax credits only apply to groundbreaking inventions, but everyday engineering challenges, process improvements, and production innovations may also qualify. Qualification Goes Beyond New Products: Activities involving automation, tooling, robotics, AI, custom manufacturing, and process optimization can all create qualifying R&D opportunities when technical uncertainty is present. Documentation Is Critical: Maintaining design records, testing results, engineering notes, and evidence of iterative development helps support a successful R&D tax credit claim. Even Failed Experiments Can Qualify: Projects that don't achieve the desired outcome may still meet IRS requirements because they demonstrate technical experimentation and uncertainty. Many Costs Are Eligible: Qualified expenses can include employee wages, supplies used during development, and certain contracted research activities. Technology Is Expanding Opportunities: Investments in automation, artificial intelligence, robotics, and advanced manufacturing technologies are creating new opportunities for manufacturers to claim valuable tax credits. R&D Credits Can Fuel Future Growth: Rather than simply reducing taxes, these credits can improve cash flow and provide additional resources to invest in innovation, equipment, talent, and long-term competitiveness. Read the Full Blog: Beyond the Shop Floor: The R&D Tax Credits Manufacturers Are Missing   Chapters 00:00 Introduction to R&D Tax Credits for Manufacturers 01:24 Common Misconceptions About R&D Eligibility 02:20 The Four-Part Test for R&D Qualification 03:43 Qualifying Activities in Manufacturing 05:28 Process Improvements and Cost Reductions 10:30 Impact of Advanced Manufacturing Technologies 12:48 Distinguishing Routine Activities from Experimentation 14:32 Developing Solutions for Custom Orders 16:16 Documentation Strategies for R&D Claims 21:24 Using R&D Credits to Reinvest in Growth 23:11 First Steps for Manufacturers to Claim R&D Credits Resources Bennett Thrasher – Credits & Incentives Practice: https://www.btcpa.net/services/tax/credits-and-incentives   Connect with the Guests Nina Desai Bennett Thrasher Bio: Nina Desai Julie Hagan Bennett Thrasher Bio: Julie Hagan   🔗 Learn more: btcpa.net | Follow Bennett Thrasher for more conversations that move business forward.

  8. 24 Jul

    From Idea to Impact: How Erin England Built Diaper Concierge

    Summary In this episode of Beyond the Ledger's special series, The Growth Exchange host Shardae Layfield introduces Emily Ackerman, Southwest Business Development Director at Bennett Thrasher, and Erin England, Founder and CEO of Diaper Concierge, for a conversation about turning a simple idea into meaningful impact. Erin shares her inspiring journey to founding Diaper Concierge, a revolutionary vending solution for parents on the go, and how one idea sparked a business that is transforming parenting and travel experiences. Together, Emily and Erin explore the realities of entrepreneurship and the persistence, partnerships, and purpose required to build and scale a business that solves an everyday challenge for families.  Diaper Concierge- Instagram Takeaways A Personal Frustration Sparked a Business: Diaper Concierge was born from a real parenting challenge, proving that some of the best business ideas come from solving everyday problems. Entrepreneurship Requires Persistence: Building a company means overcoming setbacks, navigating rejection, and remaining committed to a long-term vision. Access to Capital Can Be a Barrier: Women entrepreneurs often face additional funding challenges, making creativity, resilience, and strategic relationships even more important. Customer Stories Fuel Growth: Positive feedback from parents and venue partners continues to validate the business model and drive new opportunities. Strategic Partnerships Accelerate Expansion: Growth depends on building relationships with airports, entertainment venues, family attractions, and other organizations committed to improving the customer experience. Scaling Takes Patience: Expanding a vending machine business involves operational planning, logistics, and finding the right partners to support sustainable growth. Mentorship Makes a Difference: Learning from experienced entrepreneurs and building a strong support network can help founders navigate challenges more effectively. Focus Creates Momentum: Solving one problem exceptionally well has allowed Diaper Concierge to build credibility, differentiate itself, and create opportunities for broader adoption. The Future Is Family-Friendly Experiences: As businesses increasingly prioritize customer experience, amenities that support parents and caregivers are becoming a competitive advantage.   Chapters 00:00 – Introduction to Diaper Concierge 02:59 – The Origin Story Behind the Business 06:12 – Overcoming the Challenges of Entrepreneurship 09:04 – Customer Success Stories and Real-World Impact 12:09 – Pitching to Venues and Breaking Through Barriers 15:05 – Future Growth and Expansion Opportunities 17:51 – Leadership Lessons and Personal Growth 20:57 – The Power of Mentorship and Community 🔗 Learn more: btcpa.net | Follow Bennett Thrasher for more conversations that move business forward.

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Explore “Beyond the Ledger,” Bennett Thrasher’s podcast where advisors and industry leaders look past the numbers to uncover the strategies, risks, and opportunities shaping today’s businesses. Each episode delivers timely insights across tax, advisory, and technology to help provide clarity through confident advisement.

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