Beyond Your Books: A Small Business Growth Podcast

Mark Tuggle
  • 5.0 (1)
  • Entrepreneurship
  • Updated Monthly

Welcome to Beyond Your Books: A Small Business Growth Podcast — where numbers meet purpose! Hosted by Mark Tuggle, founder of Telos Bookkeeping, this podcast dives deep into the challenges, triumphs, and real-world experiences of small business owners. Whether it's streamlining payroll or aligning your finances with your mission, each episode delivers actionable insights, valuable education, and inspiring stories from entrepreneurs just like you. At Telos, we believe bookkeeping is more than balancing numbers — it's about creating a business that embodies your true purpose.

Episodes

  1. Feb 2

    E8: Emily Harris: Serving the Healthcare Industry: Pros and Cons of Niching Your Target Market

    In this episode of "Beyond Your Books," host Mark Tuggle welcomes marketing expert Emily Harris to discuss the intricacies of niching down in the healthcare industry. Emily shares her extensive experience in healthcare marketing, highlighting the benefits and challenges of specializing in a specific market. Together, they explore how focusing on a niche can lead to becoming an expert in the field, building a strong referral network, and ultimately providing more value to clients. The conversation delves into the unique aspects of marketing to healthcare professionals, including the importance of personal branding for physicians and the dynamics of working with multiple medical facilities. Emily and Mark also discuss the evolving trends in the healthcare industry, such as the rise of direct care providers and the impact of state and federal regulations on marketing strategies. Listeners will gain valuable insights into the strategic considerations of niching down, the importance of industry knowledge, and how to leverage expertise to enhance client relationships. Whether you're a small business owner considering a niche or a professional in the healthcare space, this episode offers practical advice and thought-provoking discussions to help you navigate your journey.   Topics Covered: The benefits and challenges of niching down in the healthcare industry Building expertise and a referral network through specialization Personal branding for healthcare professionals Navigating the dynamics of working with multiple medical facilities Emerging trends in healthcare, including direct care providers The impact of regulations on marketing strategies Strategic considerations for small business owners in niche markets   Connect with Telos Bookkeeping: Website LinkedIn   Connect with Mark: LinkedIn   Connect with Emily: LinkedIn Email: emily@physicianschoicemarketing.com

  2. Jan 5

    E7: Dinesh Mohangupta: The Hidden Leaks in Your Operational Budget

    In this eye-opening episode of Beyond Your Books, host Mark Tuggle, CEO of Telos Bookkeeping, sits down with Dinesh Mohangupta, a cost optimization strategist with Schooley Mitchell and self-proclaimed "Profit Keeper," to uncover the powerful, often overlooked truth about operational cost savings. While many business owners focus solely on driving revenue, Dinesh explains why reducing expenses—even by a small percentage—can deliver faster, more dramatic gains in profitability. Together, Mark and Dinesh break down the real math behind cost savings, reveal the hidden leaks buried in everyday vendor contracts, and outline a simple, risk-free process for reclaiming lost profits. Dinesh also shares success stories and details how his team audits 15 key operational expense categories. He shows how outsourcing vendor negotiations to specialists not only saves money but also frees business owners to reinvest their time into growth, innovation, and revenue-generating opportunities.   Topics Include: Why Cost Savings Hit Your Bottom Line Faster Than Revenue Growth How Telecom Bills Hide Errors, Junk Fees, and Unused Services The 15 Operational Expense Categories Most Businesses Overspend On The Hidden Cost of Your Time—and How Outsourcing Saves More Than Money Real-World Case Study: 24.76% Savings With Zero Vendor Change   Connect with Telos Bookkeeping: Website LinkedIn   Connect with Mark: LinkedIn   Connect with Dinesh: LinkedIn Facebook Schedule a Call Email: dinesh.mohangupta@schooleymitchell.com

  3. 12/01/2025

    E6: 7 Smart Year-End Moves for Small Business Owners

    As the year winds down, small business owners often find themselves focused on just surviving the holiday rush—but the end of December is also one of the most critical times to pause, reflect, and plan for the year ahead. In this episode, Mark Tuggle, CEO of Telos Bookkeeping shares seven key areas plus one bonus area that every small business owner should review before year-end.  From tax planning and financial cleanup to goal setting, compliance checks, and building long-term business value, Mark provides practical, actionable steps to finish the year strong and start the next year with clarity and confidence. Mark also covers the often-overlooked bonus area: rest, renewal, and reconnection—highlighting that stepping away, recharging, and reconnecting with your purpose is critical for sustainable success. Whether you're looking to capture last-minute tax savings, clean up your books, or set measurable goals for growth, this episode equips you with the tools, mindset, and strategies to take action now, avoid common year-end mistakes, and position your business for a successful, purposeful year ahead. 👉 Subscribe now for practical insights, inspiring stories, and powerful strategies to grow your business with purpose.   Topics Include: Seven Year-End Moves for Small Businesses How to Finish the Year Strong and Start Next Year Confident The One Bonus Move Every Business Owner Often Misses Unlocking Hidden Tax Savings Before December 31st Analyzing Your Numbers to Drive Better Profitability Free Small Business Year-End Checklist   Connect with Telos Bookkeeping: Website LinkedIn   Connect with Mark: LinkedIn

  4. 11/03/2025

    E5: Cory LaPlante: From Fear to Growth: How to Lead and Scale Your Business with Confidence

    In this episode of Beyond Your Books, Mark Tuggle, CEO of Telos Bookkeeping, sits down with Corey LaPlante, Founder and CEO of LaPlante Management, to explore his inspiring journey from accountant to leading software consultant and Zendesk's 2024 Implementer of the Year. Corey shares how an unexpected career pivot during the global pandemic led him to launch a thriving business that now serves clients worldwide. Together, they dive into the challenges of entrepreneurship, the weight of leadership, and the transformative power of values-driven growth. The conversation goes beyond business strategy, offering an honest look at the emotional side of building and scaling a company. Corey opens up about battling imposter syndrome, the pressures of leading a team, and the lessons he's learned about resilience and trust. Mark and Corey also explore how authenticity, integrity, and a commitment to service can become a company's most powerful marketing tools. This episode is a practical and encouraging roadmap for anyone navigating uncertainty, reminding listeners that growth often begins where comfort ends. 👉 Subscribe now for practical insights, inspiring stories, and powerful strategies to grow your business with purpose.   Topics Include: Turning an Unexpected Career Pivot into a Thriving Business The Rewards and Challenges of Building and Managing a Team Overcoming Self-Doubt While Navigating Fear and Insecurity  How Pushing Your Limits Fuels Confidence, Capability, and Opportunity Why Decency, Competence, and Genuine Client Care Drive Lasting Success   Connect with Cory and LaPlante Management:  Website LinkedIn LaPlante Management Zendesk Page    Connect with Telos Bookkeeping: Website LinkedIn   Connect with Mark: LinkedIn

  5. 10/06/2025

    E4: Marcus Constantino: How Writing a Book Elevates Your Business and Brand

    In this episode, Mark Tuggle, CEO of Telos Bookkeeping, talks with Marcus Constantino—author, writing coach, serial entrepreneur, and co-founder of Need For Speed Marketing. Marcus shares his journey from biblical studies and youth ministry to discovering a love for accounting and building a career helping authors, business owners, and nonprofits bring their ideas to life. He dives into the power of writing a book to amplify credibility, serve clients, and position yourself as a thought leader. From ideation and writing to marketing and business strategy, Marcus breaks down how authors can turn knowledge into impact and revenue. Listeners also gain practical strategies for clarity, self-leadership, and scaling a business through micro-publishing ventures. Throughout the conversation, Marcus highlights the joy of helping others realize their ideas, the value of mentorship, and the importance of purposeful work. Whether you're a small business owner, aspiring author, or professional looking to make a bigger impact, this episode delivers actionable insights and inspiring stories to help you take your expertise to the next level. 👉 Subscribe now for practical insights, inspiring stories, and powerful strategies to grow your business with purpose.   Topics Include: Boosting Credibility and Thought Leadership Through Writing The Complete Process: From Book Ideation to Market Success Mentorship, Lifelong Learning, and Strategic Self-Leadership Scaling Businesses with Micro-Publishing and Innovative Strategies Solving Problems, Creating Joy, and Serving Clients Effectively   Connect with Marcus:  Website Need For Speed Marketing LinkedIn Facebook  Books    Connect with Telos Bookkeeping: Website LinkedIn   Connect with Mark: LinkedIn

  6. 09/22/2025

    E3: Hiring a Bookkeeper: When to Act and What to Ask

    Many small business owners view bookkeeping as a "necessary evil" and put it off until tax time—costing themselves time, money, and peace of mind. In this episode, Mark Tuggle, CEO of Telos Bookkeeping, breaks down everything you need to know about hiring a professional bookkeeper. From recognizing the right moment to outsource, to understanding the benefits, to knowing exactly what questions to ask before you commit—you'll walk away with clarity and confidence in making this critical business decision. What You'll Learn in This Episode: 📈 When to Hire a Bookkeeper: Clear signs it's time to stop doing it yourself—or relying on an overwhelmed staff member. 💡 Why Outsource: The key benefits of working with a professional, including accurate reporting, cost savings, expert insights, efficiency, and scalability. 🛠️ Questions to Ask: A 10-step due diligence checklist to help you select the right bookkeeping firm. ⚖️ Cost vs. Value: Why outsourcing often saves more money than hiring in-house staff. 🔑 Practical Insights: Common pitfalls business owners face when bookkeeping is neglected or mishandled.   If you've ever felt stressed about your books, frustrated with inaccurate reports, or unsure when to take the leap and outsource, this episode is for you. You'll gain not just answers, but also actionable strategies to transform bookkeeping from a burden into a strategic advantage. 👉 Subscribe now for practical insights, inspiring stories, and powerful strategies to grow your business with purpose.   Topics Include: When to Hire a Bookkeeper Why to Outsource Your Bookkeeping Common Bookkeeping Challenges 10 Questions to Ask Before Hiring Maximizing Value from Outsourcing   Connect with Telos Bookkeeping: Website LinkedIn   Connect with Mark: LinkedIn

  7. 09/08/2025

    E2: 8 Key Drivers to Maximize Your Business Value

    What if the true measure of your business success isn't just revenue, sales, and/or headcount? In this episode, Mark Tuggle, CEO of Telos Bookkeeping, uncovers the powerful difference between business growth and business value. With clarity and real-world examples, he reveals why growth alone can leave entrepreneurs exhausted, while value-building creates freedom, resilience, and long-term success. Mark introduces the eight key drivers that determine a company's value: ➡️Financial Performance ➡️Growth Potential ➡️Switzerland Structure ➡️Positive Cash Flow ➡️Recurring Revenue ➡️Monopoly Control ➡️Customer Satisfaction ➡️Owner Independence Through stories and actionable challenges, he shows how any business owner can begin transforming their company into a sellable, future-proof asset. Packed with practical insights, this episode challenges you to shift from a growth-only mindset to a value-driven strategy—one that doesn't just grow bigger, but grows stronger, smarter, and more sustainable. 👉 Subscribe now for practical insights, inspiring stories, and powerful strategies to grow your business with purpose.   Topics Include: The Power of Value Over Blind Growth The 8 Key Drivers of Company Value Breaking Down the Switzerland Structure Actionable Challenges for Improvement  Making the Shift to a Value Mindset   Connect with Telos Bookkeeping: Website LinkedIn   Connect with Mark: LinkedIn

  8. 08/25/2025

    E1: Purpose-Driven Bookkeeping — Aligning Financials with Your Vision

    In this debut episode of Beyond Your Books, host Mark Tuggle, PhD, introduces the game-changing concept of Purpose-Driven Bookkeeping—a fresh perspective that transforms bookkeeping from a box-checking compliance task into a strategic tool that fuels business growth and personal freedom. Mark unpacks the five pillars of this approach, showing you how to: ➡️ Turn raw numbers into a compelling story that informs every decision ➡️ Align your financial records with your bigger goals and vision ➡️ Understand why compliance is only the foundation, not the finish line ➡️ Track KPIs and review reports to stay on course toward growth ➡️ Keep your vision alive by connecting daily finances to long-term purpose With experience as an Army logistics officer, pastor, entrepreneur, and holder of a PhD in organizational leadership, Mark brings a rare blend of discipline, leadership, and heart to his firm, Telos Bookkeeping. His journey reflects a deep commitment to service, clarity, and equipping leaders to thrive. Through real-world case studies, you'll hear how businesses have shifted from struggling with disorganized books to thriving with systems built around purpose. From attracting investors to scaling with confidence, these examples show that bookkeeping—done right—unlocks far more than tax compliance. Mark closes with a challenge to business owners: don't just look at your numbers, learn from them! By investing the time to understand financial reports and using them as a compass, you can drive profitability, achieve personal freedom, and build a business that truly reflects your purpose.   Topics Include: Books With Purpose: The Core Concept Transforming Numbers into Stories Real-World Examples and Insights Compliance vs. Value-Driven Bookkeeping Maintaining Alignment and Rhythm   Connect with Telos Bookkeeping: Website LinkedIn   Connect with Mark: LinkedIn

  9. Season 1 Trailer

    Trailer

    Welcome to Beyond Your Books: A Small Business Growth Podcast, brought to you by Telos Bookkeeping — where we help small business owners grow with clarity, confidence, and purpose. In each episode, we go beyond the spreadsheets to talk about the why behind your business — helping you make better decisions, manage your money wisely, and build a legacy rooted in more than just profit. You'll hear real stories from other business owners, expert insights, and practical tips to help you align your finances with your mission. Because at Telos, we believe business is more than numbers — it's a calling. Subscribe today and start building your business with your purpose in mind.   Connect with Telos Bookkeeping: Website LinkedIn   Connect with Mark: LinkedIn

Trailer

About

Welcome to Beyond Your Books: A Small Business Growth Podcast — where numbers meet purpose! Hosted by Mark Tuggle, founder of Telos Bookkeeping, this podcast dives deep into the challenges, triumphs, and real-world experiences of small business owners. Whether it's streamlining payroll or aligning your finances with your mission, each episode delivers actionable insights, valuable education, and inspiring stories from entrepreneurs just like you. At Telos, we believe bookkeeping is more than balancing numbers — it's about creating a business that embodies your true purpose.

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