Making Cents of It All

Jesse Stakes

Podcast that makes sense of the things people do to make cents...Making Cents of It All with Jesse Stakes gives the spotlight to the small businesses that make America run.  We look to share the "why" behind why people choose what they do professionally and showcase their expertise in their chosen profession for the benefit of our audience.  We also dive into the services that support those small businesses and provide information on the technology and services that allow them to do what they do each and every day effectively and more efficiently.  Making Cents of It All with Jesse Stakes looks to help businesses succeed financially and give them the spotlight while doing so!#smallbusiness #entrepreneur #sba #sales #training #why #businessservices #learning #america #ai #automation #podcast #makescents #jessestakes

  1. 6d ago

    How Contractors Win in the Age of AI Search - Lisa Romanello

    The way customers find contractors has changed forever. For years, businesses focused on ranking on the first page of Google. Today, homeowners and business owners are increasingly turning to AI-powered search tools like ChatGPT, Microsoft Copilot, Gemini, and Perplexity to find answers, recommendations, and local service providers. In this episode of Making Cents of It All, Jesse Stakes sits down with Lisa Romanello, Founder and CEO of Digital Vertex, to discuss how artificial intelligence is reshaping digital marketing and why contractors who fail to establish a strong online presence risk becoming invisible to potential customers. Lisa explains that showing up in AI search results isn't simply about having a website. It's about building a complete digital footprint that demonstrates expertise, trust, authority, and relevance across the web. From SEO and website optimization to online reviews, local listings, content creation, and social proof, every piece contributes to how AI platforms evaluate and recommend businesses. Together, Jesse and Lisa explore: ✅ Why traditional SEO is evolving in the age of AI ✅ How AI search engines determine which contractors to recommend ✅ The critical role websites play in establishing authority and credibility ✅ Why Google reviews and online reputation matter more than ever ✅ Common mistakes contractors make with their digital presence ✅ How local contractors can compete against larger regional and national companies ✅ The importance of consistent content across websites, social media, and directory listings ✅ How businesses can position themselves as the trusted expert in their market Lisa shares practical strategies that contractors, home service businesses, and local companies can implement today to improve visibility and increase opportunities generated through AI-driven searches. As AI continues to influence purchasing decisions, businesses that invest in their online presence will gain a competitive advantage, while those relying solely on referrals and word-of-mouth may find themselves falling behind. Whether you're a contractor, entrepreneur, or business owner looking to understand the future of customer acquisition, this conversation offers valuable insights into the intersection of technology, search behavior, and business growth. Memorable Quote "The question is no longer whether your business shows up on Google. The question is whether AI trusts your business enough to recommend it." – Lisa Romanello About Lisa Romanello Lisa Romanello is the Founder and CEO of Digital Vertex, a digital marketing agency specializing in SEO, website development, online visibility, and growth strategies designed to help businesses increase leads, strengthen their online presence, and achieve measurable results. Listen Now Join Jesse Stakes and Lisa Romanello as they break down how contractors can future-proof their businesses, build authority online, and position themselves to win in the rapidly evolving world of AI-powered search. #MakingCentsOfItAll #JesseStakes #LisaRomanello #DigitalVertex #SEO #AISearch #ChatGPT #MicrosoftCopilot #ContractorMarketing #DigitalMarketing #LocalSEO #BusinessGrowth #OnlineVisibility #Entrepreneurship #SmallBusinessSuccess

    How Contractors Win in the Age of AI Search - Lisa Romanello

  2. Sep 1

    Beyond the Tax Return: How CPAs Become True Advisors with Henok Kebede, CPA

    In this episode of Making Cents of It All, Jesse Stakes sits down with Henok Kebede, CPA, the CEO and Founder of HK Advisory LLC, to break down what it really means for a CPA to be a true advisor to business owners. Henok shares how entrepreneurs can move beyond simple tax preparation and into proactive planning that reduces tax burden, strengthens operations, and builds long‑term financial health. From entity structure decisions to year‑round tax strategy, Henok explains the practical steps business owners can take to run smarter, more efficient companies. He also dives into the mindset shift required to treat your CPA as a strategic partner — not just someone you see once a year. Whether you’re a business owner, an emerging entrepreneur, or someone looking to better understand how advisory‑driven accounting can transform a company, this conversation delivers clarity, actionable insights, and a fresh perspective on financial leadership. Topics we cover: The difference between tax preparation and true advisoryHow business owners unintentionally increase their tax burdenYear‑round strategies to reduce taxes and improve cash flowWhy entity structure matters more than most people thinkThe role of clean books in better decision‑makingHow CPAs can help owners think like CEOsReal examples of advisory work that changed businessesTune in and learn how to make your numbers work for you — not against you.

    Beyond the Tax Return: How CPAs Become True Advisors with Henok Kebede, CPA

  3. Jul 29

    Partnerships That Matter: Inside UNF Development with Caleb Garrett

    In this episode of Making Cents of It All, Jesse Stakes sits down with Caleb Garrett, Director of Development for the Coggin College of Business at the University of North Florida. Caleb brings a dynamic blend of relationship‑building, strategic fundraising, and a deep commitment to student success — all of which fuel the mission of one of the region’s most influential business schools. Jesse and Caleb dive into the real story behind university development: how meaningful partnerships are built, why philanthropy shapes the future of business education, and what it takes to connect donors, alumni, and community leaders with opportunities that create lasting impact. Caleb shares insights on cultivating trust, elevating student experiences, and strengthening the bridge between Jacksonville’s business community and UNF’s next generation of talent. Whether you’re an alum, a business leader, or someone who cares about the future of education, this conversation offers a thoughtful look at how development work drives growth, innovation, and opportunity across Northeast Florida. A smart, inspiring, and human conversation — exactly what Making Cents of It All is all about.

    Partnerships That Matter: Inside UNF Development with Caleb Garrett

  4. Jul 15

    The Open Championship or The British Open? That is the Question.

    In this special major‑week episode of Making Cents of It All, Jesse Stakes sits down with The Tin Cup Club to break down the year’s final major — the 2026 Open Championship at Royal Birkdale. From the history of this iconic links to the economic engine behind golf’s oldest championship, the crew dives into everything that makes The Open unlike any other event in the sport. Royal Birkdale has long been known as one of the fairest, toughest, and most visually stunning courses on the Open rota — a place where the dunes shape the story, the wind decides the champion, and only the most complete players survive. With record crowds expected and a projected economic impact topping £100 million, the 2026 Open is set to be one of the most influential sporting events of the year. Jesse and The Tin Cup Club dig into: What makes Royal Birkdale the perfect stage for the final majorThe unique challenge of links golf and how players adaptThe contenders, dark horses, and storylines shaping the 2026 championshipHow The Open drives massive economic growth for Southport and the Liverpool City RegionThe fan experience, the culture, and the legacy that only The Open can deliverWhether you’re a golf fan, a business mind, or someone who loves the intersection of sport and strategy, this episode brings insight, personality, and plenty of major‑week energy. Tune in as we make cents of the final major — and why Royal Birkdale is ready to crown a champion.

    The Open Championship or The British Open? That is the Question.

  5. Jul 8

    Building Brands That Win: Drew Webb on the Affari Approach to Creative Strategy

    In this episode of Making Cents of It All, Jesse Stakes sits down with Drew Webb — CEO, founder, and the creative force behind Affari, a marketing and digital innovation agency helping brands grow through strategy, design, and AI‑driven transformation. Affari has spent more than a decade building the future for its clients — from branding and visual identity to custom websites, digital marketing, and AI‑powered search optimization. Drew breaks down how Affari helps companies tell their story, stand out in crowded markets, and stay visible in an era where AI is reshaping how people discover and engage with brands. Jesse and Drew explore: How Affari blends creativity, technology, and strategy to build cohesive brand experiencesWhy AI‑driven search optimization is becoming essential for modern businessesThe process of transforming complex ideas into clear, compelling designHow Affari’s team of designers, strategists, marketers, and technologists collaborate to bring a client’s vision to lifeWhat it takes to build a creative agency that has been “creating the future since 2011”Drew shares the real founder story — the early days, the evolution of Affari’s capabilities, and the mindset required to lead a team that helps clients envision a better future and actually build it. If you’re a business leader, marketer, entrepreneur, or someone fascinated by the intersection of creativity and technology, this conversation delivers insight into how brands grow, adapt, and thrive in a digital-first world. Tune in and make cents of it all.

    Building Brands That Win: Drew Webb on the Affari Approach to Creative Strategy

  6. Jun 16

    The Business Behind the 2026 U.S. Open

    This week on Making Cents of It All with Jesse Stakes, the Tin Cup Club joins me to break down one of the biggest economic engines in sports — the U.S. Open. We dig into: • How the USGA generates millions through TV rights, sponsorships, and hospitality • The real economic impact on host cities — jobs, tourism, infrastructure, and local business • What volunteers actually receive (and why they still line up to help) • Course setup, fan experience innovations, and the storylines shaping 2026 It’s golf, business, community, and strategy all in one conversation. If you love the game — or the economics behind major events — this one’s for you.

    The Business Behind the 2026 U.S. Open

  7. Jun 3

    Inside Back 9 Golf Lakewood: Meshia & Aniekan Sampson on Entrepreneurship, Franchising, and the Love of Golf

    In this episode of Making Cents of It All, Jesse sits down with Meshia and Aniekan Sampson, the husband‑and‑wife team behind Back 9 Golf Lakewood, one of Jacksonville’s newest and most exciting indoor golf destinations. The Sampsons share the story behind their decision to step into entrepreneurship, what inspired them to take the leap into business ownership, and how Back 9’s unique franchise model opened the door for them to build something of their own in the Lakewood community. From their first conversations about owning a business to the moment they realized Back 9 was the perfect fit, Meshia and Aniekan talk candidly about the challenges, the learning curve, and the joy that comes with creating a space where people can play, practice, and connect. And of course, they dive into their love of the game — how golf became a shared passion, why it brings people together, and what they hope Back 9 Lakewood will mean for golfers of all skill levels across Jacksonville. Whether you’re a golfer, an entrepreneur, or someone who loves a good origin story, this episode is packed with insight, inspiration, and heart.

    Inside Back 9 Golf Lakewood: Meshia & Aniekan Sampson on Entrepreneurship, Franchising, and the Love of Golf

  8. May 12

    From Philly to the Fairways: The Stories Behind the 2026 PGA Championship

    Jesse and the Tin Cup Club are diving into one of the biggest sporting and economic stories heading toward the East Coast in 2026: the PGA Championship at Aronimink Golf Club in Newtown Square, Pennsylvania. This isn’t just another major. This is a week that’s expected to bring more than two hundred thousand visitors into Delaware County and pump an estimated one hundred and twenty‑five million dollars into the local economy. Hotels are already booking out, restaurants are gearing up for record traffic, and small businesses across the region are preparing for what could be the most impactful week they’ve ever seen. Aronimink itself is a historic venue — a Donald Ross masterpiece that’s hosted everything from the AT&T National to the BMW Championship to the KPMG Women’s PGA. And now, for the first time since 1962, it’s back on the global stage for the PGA Championship. Today, we’re going to break down what makes this course such a demanding test, why the economic impact is so massive, and what fans, businesses, and players can expect when the world of golf descends on Newtown Square.

    From Philly to the Fairways: The Stories Behind the 2026 PGA Championship
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Ratings & Reviews

5
out of 5
10 Ratings

About

Podcast that makes sense of the things people do to make cents...Making Cents of It All with Jesse Stakes gives the spotlight to the small businesses that make America run.  We look to share the "why" behind why people choose what they do professionally and showcase their expertise in their chosen profession for the benefit of our audience.  We also dive into the services that support those small businesses and provide information on the technology and services that allow them to do what they do each and every day effectively and more efficiently.  Making Cents of It All with Jesse Stakes looks to help businesses succeed financially and give them the spotlight while doing so!#smallbusiness #entrepreneur #sba #sales #training #why #businessservices #learning #america #ai #automation #podcast #makescents #jessestakes

Information

  • Creator
    Jesse Stakes
  • Years Active
    2022 - 2026
  • Episodes
    134
  • Rating
    Explicit
  • Copyright
    © 2026 Making Cents of It All
  • Show Website
    Making Cents of It All