Main Street Business

Mark J Kohler and Mat Sorensen
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The Main Street Business Podcast, hosted by attorneys Mat Sorensen and Mark J. Kohler, is the go-to resource for entrepreneurs, investors, and business owners who want to build, protect, and manage their wealth. Each episode explores real-world scenarios and offers practical advice on business structuring, tax planning, side hustles, real estate, self-directed retirement accounts, and more. With decades of combined legal and tax experience Mark and Mat make complex financial topics understandable through charismatic discussions and practical education. Their goal is to empower listeners to make smarter legal and financial decisions by turning advanced concepts into clear, actionable strategies for LLCs, corporations, estate planning, tax reduction, raising capital, asset protection, and retirement planning.  Mark J. Kohler is a CPA, attorney, best-selling author of six books, and a nationally recognized authority on small business tax and legal strategies. Mark serves as a Senior Partner at KKOS Lawyers and Board Member at Directed IRA Trust Company, which manages over $3 billion in assets. As the founder of the Main Street Certified Tax Advisor Program, Mark has trained thousands of CPAs and Enrolled Agents nationwide, helping millions of small business owners better navigate tax and legal strategies. Mark also co-hosts The Main Street Business Podcast along with Mat Sorensen. Mat Sorensen is an attorney, best-selling author of The Self-Directed IRA Handbook, and CEO of Directed IRA & Directed Trust Company, a leading self-directed IRA custodian with nearly $3 billion under administration. He is a national expert on self-directed retirement strategies and a Senior Partner at KKOS Lawyers. Mat also co-hosts The Main Street Business Podcast along with Mark J. Kohler. 

  1. 17H AGO

    #608 Contrarian Real Estate investing in 2026 with Jamison Manwaring

    We challenge the fear cycle around real estate and show why disciplined contrarian buying can work in 2026. We walk through real multifamily distress, market absorption, and why basis and debt terms now matter more than flashy rent growth. • rates rising and bridge debt resets driving distress in capital stacks • absorption trends in Phoenix versus oversupply in Austin and Dallas • why coastal markets improved due to scarce new supply • buying stabilized, well‑located multifamily at 30–40% discounts • fixed agency debt and conservative leverage restoring cash flow • where single‑family rentals struggle against concessions • submarket selection and vintage risk to avoid capex traps • office at deep discounts to replacement and reposition strategies • timing the cycle with data, not emotion • our plan to expand beyond Phoenix while staying selective You can learn more about Jamison and Neighborhood Ventures Here - https://neighborhood.ventures/ Please make sure you are subscribed to the podcast or the YouTube channel where these interviews play as well. Give it thumbs up, five stars, whatever you can do to help spread the good word. Grab my eBook 30 Unique Strategies Every Business Owner Should Know! You don't want to miss this! Secure your tickets for the #1 Event For Small Business Owners On Main Street America: Main Street 360 Looking to connect with a rock star law firm? KKOS is only a click away! Are you ready to get certified in EVERY strategy I teach? Start your journey with a FREE 15-minute discovery call to explore the Main Street Tax Pro Certification. Check out our YOUTUBE Channel Here: https://www.youtube.com/markjkohler Craving more content? Check out my Instagram!

    33 min

  2. JAN 30

    #607 Open Forum — Tax Expert Answers Your Most Difficult Tax & Legal Questions!

    Are you making smart tax and legal decisions, or leaving money on the table without realizing it? In this episode of the Main Street Business Podcast, Mark J. Kohler tackles your toughest questions and breaks down real-world tax strategies, asset protection myths, and retirement planning mistakes that business owners and investors face every day. From selling million-dollar collectibles and avoiding unnecessary taxes, to understanding how S Corporations can impact Social Security benefits later in life, Mark tackles listener questions with practical, no-nonsense advice. You’ll learn why LLCs don’t magically reduce taxes, how charitable remainder trusts really work, and when trusts actually make sense — and when they’re a complete waste of money. If you’re a small business owner, investor, or high-income professional looking to legally reduce taxes, protect assets, and build long-term wealth, this episode is packed with insights you can use right now! You’ll learn: Why setting up an LLC or corporation won’t help you avoid capital gains taxes when selling high-value collectiblesWhen trusts actually make sense for asset protection—and when they’re an expensive mistakeWhy Social Security has diminishing returns for high earners and how S Corporations change the mathThe rules around depreciated equipment and why you can’t “reset” depreciation with a new entityHow self-rental real estate strategies can unlock powerful deductions for business ownersWhat counts as a prohibited transaction inside IRAs and Solo 401(k)s—and what doesn’tGet a comprehensive tax consultation with one of our Main Street tax lawyers that can build a tax strategy plan with an affordable consultation that will leave you speechless!!  Here’s the link - https://kkoslawyers.com/services/comprehensive-bus-tax-consult/?utm_source=buzzsprout&utm_medium=description-link&utm_campaign=main-street-business-podcast&utm_content=msbp607-open-forum-toughest-tax-and-legal-questions Grab my eBook 30 Unique Strategies Every Business Owner Should Know! You don't want to miss this! Secure your tickets for the #1 Event For Small Business Owners On Main Street America: Main Street 360 Looking to connect with a rock star law firm? KKOS is only a click away! Are you ready to get certified in EVERY strategy I teach? Start your journey with a FREE 15-minute discovery call to explore the Main Street Tax Pro Certification. Check out our YOUTUBE Channel Here: https://www.youtube.com/markjkohler Craving more content? Check out my Instagram!

    31 min

  3. JAN 16

    #606 Open Forum - Tax Strategies for Small Businesses in 2026

    In this Open Forum episode of the Main Street Business Podcast, Mark J. Kohler and Mat Sorensen tackle real-world tax, legal, and business questions straight from small business owners and investors. From S corporations and QBI deductions to rental real estate, asset protection myths, HSAs, and retirement account strategies, this episode cuts through bad advice and explains what actually works under current IRS rules. The discussion covers common traps like trying to deduct personal investing as a business, relying on so-called “privacy trusts” for asset protection, and using AI or the IRS hotline for nuanced tax advice. Mark and Mat break down why some strategies are too good to be true, how to properly structure entities across states, and what business owners should focus on in 2026 to build wealth while staying compliant. If you’re a business owner, investor, or high-income professional looking to understand tax strategies, retirement planning, and asset protection the right way, this episode is packed with practical guidance and hard truths. Subscribe for more expert breakdowns, drop your questions for future open forums, and check out the next episode to keep leveling up your tax and business strategy! You’ll Learn: How S corporations and the QBI deduction really work for small business owners in 2026 — and when they don’t save you money.Why treating personal investing as a business deduction is a tax mistake and what you can deduct legitimately.The truth about asset protection strategies, “privacy trusts,” and when a holding company structure actually makes sense.How to legally pay family members (like your children) through your business and what the IRS expects.What the IRS Hot Topics are right now — from HSAs and retirement plans to rental real estate tax benefits.How to avoid common pitfalls with solo 401(k)s, HSAs, and mixed-income strategies that cost people real dollars.Practical, experience-based answers to real listener questions instead of theoretical or generic advice. Get a comprehensive tax consultation with one of our Main Street tax lawyers that can build a tax strategy plan with an affordable consultation that will leave you speechless!!  Here’s the link - https://kkoslawyers.com/services/comprehensive-bus-tax-consult/?utm_source=buzzsprout&utm_medium=description-link&utm_campaign=main-street-business-podcast&utm_content=msbp606-open-forum-small-business-strategies-2026  Grab my eBook 30 Unique Strategies Every Business Owner Should Know! You don't want to miss this! Secure your tickets for the #1 Event For Small Business Owners On Main Street America: Main Street 360 Looking to connect with a rock star law firm? KKOS is only a click away! Are you ready to get certified in EVERY strategy I teach? Start your journey with a FREE 15-minute discovery call to explore the Main Street Tax Pro Certification. Check out our YOUTUBE Channel Here: https://www.youtube.com/markjkohler Craving more content? Check out my Instagram!

    48 min

  4. JAN 9

    #605 The 8-Step Strategic Plan Every Entrepreneur Needs for 2026

    Most entrepreneurs set goals every year… and most of them fail to follow through. In this episode of the Main Street Business Podcast, Mark J. Kohler and Mat Sorensen break down their proven, real-world process for building a strategic plan that actually works in 2026 and beyond. You’ll learn how to think long-term without burning out short-term, why writing your plan down is non-negotiable, and how to reverse-engineer a 10-year vision into realistic one-year action steps. Mark and Mat walk through their exact eight-step framework, covering SMART goals, realistic capacity checks, quarterly execution, accountability, and why sharing your plan with your spouse or board can make or break your success. If you’re a business owner, investor, or entrepreneur who wants clarity, focus, and momentum this year, this episode gives you a practical blueprint you can implement immediately. Subscribe for more Main Street business strategy, leave a comment with your 2026 goal, and check out future episodes for execution and scaling tactics! You’ll learn: Why most entrepreneurs overestimate what they can do in one year and underestimate what’s possible in tenHow to create a clear 10-year vision and reverse-engineer it into realistic 5-, 3-, and 1-year goalsThe importance of writing your strategic plan down and why pen-to-paper thinking changes executionHow to use SMART goals to avoid vague plans that never get finishedWhen taking a step back financially is the smartest move for long-term growthHow to break big objectives into bite-sized, actionable steps you can actually completeWhy quarterly planning and realistic scheduling matter more than motivationHow accountability, board meetings, and sharing your plan with your spouse can dramatically improve resultsWhy your strategic plan should be flexible, reviewed regularly, and adjusted without guiltGet a comprehensive tax consultation with one of our Main Street tax lawyers that can build a tax strategy plan with an affordable consultation that will leave you speechless!!  Here’s the link - https://kkoslawyers.com/services/comprehensive-bus-tax-consult/?utm_source=buzzsprout&utm_medium=description-link&utm_campaign=main-street-business-podcast&utm_content=msbp605-create-your-annual-strategic-plan Grab my eBook 30 Unique Strategies Every Business Owner Should Know! You don't want to miss this! Secure your tickets for the #1 Event For Small Business Owners On Main Street America: Main Street 360 Looking to connect with a rock star law firm? KKOS is only a click away! Are you ready to get certified in EVERY strategy I teach? Start your journey with a FREE 15-minute discovery call to explore the Main Street Tax Pro Certification. Check out our YOUTUBE Channel Here: https://www.youtube.com/markjkohler Craving more content? Check out my Instagram!

    27 min

  5. 12/05/2025

    #604 Year-End Equipment Purchases — When They Save Taxes (And When They Don't!)

    Buying a new truck or piece of equipment before December 31 can feel like the ultimate year-end tax hack, but this episode breaks down why that decision can either save you thousands or create a painful tax bill you never saw coming. Mark J. Kohler and Mat Sorensen walk through the real math behind deductions, bonus depreciation, basis, and business-use percentages so you don’t fall into the traps many business owners hit when rushing into a purchase for the write-off. If you’ve ever wondered whether you should buy now, wait, or skip the purchase altogether, this conversation gives you the clarity you need. You’ll learn how tax brackets, depreciation schedules, and financing choices impact your allowable deduction, why bonus depreciation isn’t always the smartest move, and how S-corp basis affects whether you can deduct anything at all. The guys also explain year-end timing strategies, the time value of money, and how to prioritize deductions that actually move the needle—while avoiding the mindset of treating tax planning like a last-minute school assignment. If you want to make smart year-end decisions, hit like and subscribe for more practical tax and wealth-building strategies. Have a question about your specific situation? Drop it in the comments! And if you’re considering a major purchase before December 31, watch this episode before heading to the dealership or equipment lot. You’ll learn: How to avoid the biggest year-end tax mistakes business owners make when rushing to buy equipment or a new truckWhy “just because you can doesn’t mean you should” is the most important rule in year-end tax planningThe difference between a tax deduction and a tax credit, and why confusing the two leads to expensive decisionsHow to calculate whether a year-end equipment purchase actually saves you money after factoring in your tax bracketWhy business-use percentage determines whether your vehicle deduction is $100,000 or $30,000Why 100% bonus depreciation can become a trap if you finance equipment without having basis in your S corporationWhy contractors, doctors, and other high-income earners should not automatically take bonus depreciation in one yearGet a comprehensive tax consultation with one of our Main Street tax lawyers that can build a tax strategy plan with an affordable consultation that will leave you speechless!!  Here’s the link - https://kkoslawyers.com/services/comprehensive-bus-tax-consult/?utm_source=buzzsprout&utm_medium=description-link&utm_campaign=main-street-business-podcast&utm_content=msbp604-year-end-equipment-purchases Grab my eBook 30 Unique Strategies Every Business Owner Should Know! You don't want to miss this! Secure your tickets for the #1 Event For Small Business Owners On Main Street America: Main Street 360 Looking to connect with a rock star law firm? KKOS is only a click away! Are you ready to get certified in EVERY strategy I teach? Start your journey with a FREE 15-minute discovery call to explore the Main Street Tax Pro Certification. Check out our YOUTUBE Channel Here: https://www.youtube.com/markjkohler Craving more content? Check out my Instagram!

    30 min

  6. 11/28/2025

    #603 3 Year-End Retirement Account Deadlines You're Not Thinking About

    These three retirement deadlines before December 31, 2025, could literally double your money overnight, unlock up to $70,000 of Roth contributions, and turn your accounts into a tax-free ATM for your future! In this episode of the Main Street Business Podcast, Mat Sorensen and Mark J. Kohler break down powerful, little-known 401(k) and Roth strategies that most employees and small business owners are completely missing. You’ll learn how to “match & out” your workplace 401(k) so you don’t leave free employer money on the table, how the Mega Backdoor Roth works using after-tax contributions inside your 401(k), and why high earners and oil rig workers were among the first to exploit it. The guys also cover critical year-end deadlines for setting up a solo 401(k), how to snag valuable small business tax credits, and smart ways to structure Roth conversions so you don’t accidentally bump yourself into a much higher tax bracket. They even touch on using your kids’ earned income to fund their own Roth IRAs and create generational tax-free wealth. If you want to keep more of what you make, grow your retirement accounts faster, and stop relying on Wall Street or your employer to “save” you, this episode is your year-end checklist. Listen to the end, then hit subscribe for more tax and wealth-building strategies, drop your questions in the comments, and share this with a friend or family member who needs to take control of their retirement before the year is over! You’ll learn: How to avoid missing the three major retirement account deadlines coming up before December 31, 2025Why doing a “match & out” on your employer 401(k) can instantly increase your contributions using free employer fundsHow the Mega Backdoor Roth works inside a 401(k) and why it allows up to $70,000 in Roth contributionsWhy high-income earners, including oil rig workers, were early adopters of after-tax 401(k) strategiesThe exact deadlines and setup requirements for opening and funding a Solo 401(k) for small business ownersHow to use Roth conversions strategically without accidentally jumping into a higher tax bracketHow to use earned income for your children to fund their own Roth IRAs and create long-term tax-free wealthGet a comprehensive tax consultation with one of our Main Street tax lawyers that can build a tax strategy plan with an affordable consultation that will leave you speechless!!  Here’s the link - https://kkoslawyers.com/services/comprehensive-bus-tax-consult/?utm_source=buzzsprout&utm_medium=description-link&utm_campaign=main-street-business-podcast&utm_content=msbp603-3-year-end-deadlines Grab my eBook 30 Unique Strategies Every Business Owner Should Know! You don't want to miss this! Secure your tickets for the #1 Event For Small Business Owners On Main Street America: Main Street 360 Looking to connect with a rock star law firm? KKOS is only a click away! Are you ready to get certified in EVERY strategy I teach? Start your journey with a FREE 15-minute discovery call to explore the Main Street Tax Pro Certification. Check out our YOUTUBE Channel Here: https://www.youtube.com/markjkohler Craving more content? Check out my Instagram!

    26 min

  7. 11/21/2025

    #602 How to Write Off a Holiday Party for Your Business

    Are you missing out on one of the easiest 100 percent deductions available to business owners? In this episode of the Main Street Business Podcast, Mark J. Kohler and Mat Sorensen break down exactly how to structure a holiday party or company event so it becomes a fully deductible business expense. From the IRS rules under Section 274 to real examples of what qualifies, you’ll learn how to turn food, entertainment, awards, and even venue costs into a legitimate write-off. Unlike generic tax tips online, this discussion dives into real-world application for small business owners — whether you have a growing team, a handful of employees, or a small staff running from your home office. Mark and Mat explain the three requirements every event must meet, the difference between 50 percent and 100 percent deductions, why culture and team-building matter for tax purposes, and the exact documentation you need to protect the deduction. They also walk through case law, common mistakes, and creative strategies like using the Augusta rule when hosting at your home. Whether you’re planning a Christmas party, a summer barbecue, a team-building event, or an employee appreciation night, this episode will help you use the tax code to your advantage while still creating an event your team will love. By the end, you’ll know how to design an effective, compliant, and fully deductible company party that strengthens your culture and saves you money. You’ll learn: How to structure a company holiday party or event so it qualifies for a full 100 percent tax deductionThe three IRS requirements under Section 274 that determine whether meals and entertainment are fully deductibleReal examples of deductible events, including award lunches, themed parties, off-site gatherings, and interactive team activitiesHow to document business purpose properly and protect your deduction if the IRS ever asks for proofCreative strategies like using the Augusta rule when hosting at your home to increase deductions legallyCommon mistakes business owners make when planning events — and how to avoid losing the write-offHow to maximize tax benefits while still creating a memorable, effective event your team actually enjoysGet a comprehensive tax consultation with one of our Main Street tax lawyers that can build a tax strategy plan with an affordable consultation that will leave you speechless!!  Here’s the link - https://kkoslawyers.com/services/comprehensive-bus-tax-consult/?utm_source=buzzsprout&utm_medium=description-link&utm_campaign=main-street-business-podcast&utm_content=msbp602-write-off-holiday-party Grab my eBook 30 Unique Strategies Every Business Owner Should Know! You don't want to miss this! Secure your tickets for the #1 Event For Small Business Owners On Main Street America: Main Street 360 Looking to connect with a rock star law firm? KKOS is only a click away! Are you ready to get certified in EVERY strategy I teach? Start your journey with a FREE 15-minute discovery call to explore the Main Street Tax Pro Certification. Check out our YOUTUBE Channel Here: https://www.youtube.com/markjkohler Craving more content? Check out my Instagram!

    24 min

  8. 11/19/2025

    #601 Top 20 Year-End Tax Strategies Everyone Should Know!

    Are you missing out on some of the most powerful year-end tax strategies available to small business owners and entrepreneurs? In this episode of the Main Street Business Podcast, Mark J. Kohler and Mat Sorensen break down 20 actionable moves you can still make before December 31 to save thousands on taxes and set yourself up for long-term financial success. From retroactive S-corp elections to HSAs, Solo 401(k)s, and smart income timing, this episode is your complete year-end playbook. Unlike generic tax tips you’ll find online, these strategies are tailored for real entrepreneurs — whether you’re running an LLC, managing rentals, or building your side hustle. Mark and Mat explain how to pay your kids the right way, leverage 100% bonus depreciation on vehicles and equipment, and take advantage of HRAs, Roth conversions, self-rental rules, and tax-loss harvesting before the clock runs out. They also share which moves are still possible after year-end and which deadlines you can’t afford to miss. Whether you’re just getting started or already running a profitable business, this episode will help you keep more of what you earn and make smarter tax decisions for 2025. By the end, you’ll know exactly how to finish the year strong — and start the next one with a strategy that builds wealth, not stress. If you’re serious about saving money, staying compliant, and maximizing every deduction possible, this is an episode you can’t afford to skip! How to implement 20 year-end tax strategies that help business owners, investors, and the self-employed keep more of their moneyHow to use S corporation elections, payroll planning, and paying your children legally to reduce self-employment taxWhy HSAs, HRAs, and Solo 401(k)s are some of the most powerful tools for deductible medical and retirement planningHow to unlock startup deductions with a first sale and maximize write-offs through year-end equipment and vehicle purchasesSmart ways to shift income and expenses between tax years to optimize your tax bracketHow Roth conversions, rental real estate strategies, and the self-rental rule build long-term tax-efficient wealthWhy scheduling a personalized tax review ensures that these strategies are actually implemented before December 31Get a comprehensive tax consultation with one of our Main Street tax lawyers that can build a tax strategy plan with an affordable consultation that will leave you speechless!!  Here’s the link - https://kkoslawyers.com/services/comprehensive-bus-tax-consult/?utm_source=buzzsprout&utm_medium=description-link&utm_campaign=main-street-business-podcast&utm_content=msbp601-20-year-end-tax-strategies Grab my eBook 30 Unique Strategies Every Business Owner Should Know! You don't want to miss this! Secure your tickets for the #1 Event For Small Business Owners On Main Street America: Main Street 360 Looking to connect with a rock star law firm? KKOS is only a click away! Are you ready to get certified in EVERY strategy I teach? Start your journey with a FREE 15-minute discovery call to explore the Main Street Tax Pro Certification. Check out our YOUTUBE Channel Here: https://www.youtube.com/markjkohler Craving more content? Check out my Instagram!

    31 min
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About

The Main Street Business Podcast, hosted by attorneys Mat Sorensen and Mark J. Kohler, is the go-to resource for entrepreneurs, investors, and business owners who want to build, protect, and manage their wealth. Each episode explores real-world scenarios and offers practical advice on business structuring, tax planning, side hustles, real estate, self-directed retirement accounts, and more. With decades of combined legal and tax experience Mark and Mat make complex financial topics understandable through charismatic discussions and practical education. Their goal is to empower listeners to make smarter legal and financial decisions by turning advanced concepts into clear, actionable strategies for LLCs, corporations, estate planning, tax reduction, raising capital, asset protection, and retirement planning.  Mark J. Kohler is a CPA, attorney, best-selling author of six books, and a nationally recognized authority on small business tax and legal strategies. Mark serves as a Senior Partner at KKOS Lawyers and Board Member at Directed IRA Trust Company, which manages over $3 billion in assets. As the founder of the Main Street Certified Tax Advisor Program, Mark has trained thousands of CPAs and Enrolled Agents nationwide, helping millions of small business owners better navigate tax and legal strategies. Mark also co-hosts The Main Street Business Podcast along with Mat Sorensen. Mat Sorensen is an attorney, best-selling author of The Self-Directed IRA Handbook, and CEO of Directed IRA & Directed Trust Company, a leading self-directed IRA custodian with nearly $3 billion under administration. He is a national expert on self-directed retirement strategies and a Senior Partner at KKOS Lawyers. Mat also co-hosts The Main Street Business Podcast along with Mark J. Kohler. 

Information

  • Creator
    Mark J Kohler and Mat Sorensen
  • Years Active
    2015 - 2026
  • Episodes
    611
  • Rating
    Clean
  • Copyright
    © 2026 Main Street Business
  • Show Website
    Main Street Business

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