Prosper & Get Paid

Emily Bowie & Andrea Mason
  • 5.0 (19)
  • Entrepreneurship
  • Updated Weekly

Welcome to the Prosper and Get Paid Playbook, where we break down how to build real wealth without sacrificing your life to do it. We’re your hosts, Emily Bowie and Andrea Mason of Thorne Advisors, and each week we’re diving into the practical money, tax, and cash flow strategies that help you not just make money, but actually keep it and grow it. If you’re a business owner who wants to build income today and legacy for tomorrow, you’re in the right place. Learn more: https://www.thorneadvisors.com/ 

Episodes

  1. 5d ago

    How to Pay Yourself Consistently as a Business Owner

    Have you ever wondered how much you should be paying yourself as a business owner... or whether you're doing it the right way? One of the most common questions business owners ask is how to pay themselves consistently while staying tax-efficient and compliant with IRS rules. The answer depends on how your business is structured, and making the wrong moves can lead to unnecessary taxes, cash flow issues, or even IRS scrutiny. In this episode, Emily and Andrea walk through the differences between paying yourself as a sole proprietor versus an S Corporation, explain what reasonable compensation actually means, and share practical strategies to help you build a consistent payroll system while taking advantage of additional tax-saving opportunities. They also discuss common bookkeeping mistakes business owners make when paying taxes and why documentation is essential when implementing advanced tax strategies. Tune in to hear:  How sole proprietors should pay themselves using owner distributions  Why consistent transfers are better than random withdrawals  The difference between paying yourself as a sole proprietor versus an S Corporation  When it may make sense to consider electing S Corporation tax status  What reasonable compensation means and how it is determined  Why your salary should reflect your role, hours worked, and market value  The importance of balancing payroll and owner distributions  How improper compensation can increase your IRS audit risk  Why tax payments are owner distributions not business expenses  The bookkeeping mistake that can create unexpected tax bills  Additional tax-saving strategies available to S Corporation owners, including accountable plans and hiring your children  How the Augusta Rule may provide additional tax advantages in the right circumstances  Why proper documentation is essential when implementing tax strategies  How ongoing tax strategy helps business owners maximize savings while staying compliant  Why paying yourself consistently creates healthier cash flow and stronger financial habits for your business Connect with Andrea & Emily: Book a Free Assessment: Text "Tax" to +1 (951) 618-40155 Cash Leaks and 5 Tax Deductions Draining Your Business: https://www.thorneadvisors.com/cashleaksWebsite: https://www.thorneadvisors.com/ IG: https://www.instagram.com/THORNEADVISORS

    12 min

  2. Jul 1

    The Hidden Profit Killers in Your Business

    Do you ever feel like your business is making more money than ever... but somehow there's still not as much profit left over as you expected? Many business owners focus on increasing revenue while overlooking the hidden leaks quietly draining their profits. From tax planning mistakes to underpricing offers and cash flow decisions that don't align with long-term goals, these overlooked issues can have a much bigger impact than most entrepreneurs realize. In this episode, Emily and Andrea break down some of the most common profit killers they see while working with business owners. They explain why growing your business isn't just about bringing in more sales—it's about understanding your numbers, making intentional financial decisions, and building a strategy that supports both profitability and long-term wealth. Tune in to hear: Why waiting until tax season can cost your business thousandsHow proactive tax planning helps you avoid expensive surprisesThe truth about buying a vehicle just for the tax deductionWhy spending money simply to lower your tax bill can backfireHow incorrect pricing quietly eats away at your profitsWhy every product or service should account for overhead costsHow scope creep can reduce profitability without you realizing itWhy hiring before adjusting your pricing can create financial strainThe importance of knowing your numbers before making growth decisionsWhy maximizing retirement contributions isn't always the best financial moveHow balancing tax strategy, cash flow, and business growth creates stronger long-term resultsWhy working with an advisor who understands your entire business can help you build lasting wealth instead of simply lowering your tax bill Connect with Andrea & Emily: Book a Free Assessment: Text "Tax" to +1 (951) 618-40155 Cash Leaks and 5 Tax Deductions Draining Your Business: https://www.thorneadvisors.com/cashleaksWebsite: https://www.thorneadvisors.com/ IG: https://www.instagram.com/THORNEADVISORS

    16 min

  3. Jun 24

    The Home Office Deduction: Are You Missing This Tax Write-Off?

    The home office deduction is one of the most well-known tax deductions, but it is also one of the most misunderstood. In this episode, we’re breaking down who actually qualifies for the home office deduction, how it is calculated, and why so many business owners either miss it completely or claim it incorrectly. Tune in to hear: The commonly missed deduction many business owners overlookWhy working from home does not automatically mean you qualifyWhat “regularly and exclusively” really meansThe difference between a dedicated home office and a shared household spaceHow the home office deduction is calculated using square footageWhich home expenses may be partially deductibleWhy W2 employees typically do not qualify for this deductionWhat happens when a home office is used mostly for employee work instead of business workA real audit example that shows why the details matterWhy the home office deduction is legitimate when used correctlyHow this deduction can help business owners avoid overpaying in taxesWhy you should discuss your home office setup with your CPA Connect with Andrea & Emily: Book a Free Assessment: Text "Tax" to +1 (951) 618-40155 Cash Leaks and 5 Tax Deductions Draining Your Business: https://www.thorneadvisors.com/cashleaksWebsite: https://www.thorneadvisors.com/ IG: https://www.instagram.com/THORNEADVISORS

    7 min

  4. Jun 17

    The #1 Cash Leak Costing Business Owners Thousands (And How to Fix It)

    Revenue is not the same thing as profit and one of the biggest cash leaks in business often comes down to pricing. In this episode, we're diving into one of the most common mistakes entrepreneurs make: setting prices based on competitors, industry norms, or direct costs without fully understanding what it actually costs to run their business. Tune in to hear:  The most common cash leak business owners experience  Why pricing based on competitors can be dangerous  The difference between direct costs and overhead expenses  How overhead impacts every dollar of revenue you earn  A simple pricing analysis you can perform today  How to use your Profit & Loss statement to evaluate profitability  Why many businesses have far smaller margins than they realize  What to do if you discover your prices are too low  How to strategically raise prices without shocking customers  Why charging appropriately allows you to serve more people and create a bigger impact Connect with Andrea & Emily: Book a Free Assessment: Text "Tax" to +1 (951) 618-40155 Cash Leaks and 5 Tax Deductions Draining Your Business: https://www.thorneadvisors.com/cashleaksWebsite: https://www.thorneadvisors.com/ IG: https://www.instagram.com/THORNEADVISORS

    10 min

  5. Jun 9

    Why Most Business Owners Struggle to Scale Profitably

    Growing your business should create more opportunities...not more financial stress. In this episode, we're diving into what it really takes to scale sustainably without creating financial chaos behind the scenes. Too often, business owners focus on increasing revenue while overlooking the financial systems, cash flow planning, and strategic decision-making required to support growth. Whether you're preparing to hire, invest, expand your team, or simply want more confidence in your numbers, this conversation will help you build a stronger financial foundation for long-term success.  In This Episode, We Cover:  Why bookkeeping is the first step toward sustainable growth  The importance of understanding your business's cash flow cycle  Why your balance sheet matters just as much as your profit and loss statement  Common financial mistakes business owners make when scaling  How taxes impact your available cash and growth decisions  The role of scenario planning before making investments or hiring  Understanding seasonal revenue patterns in your business  How to evaluate growth opportunities with confidence  Why having trusted financial advisors on your team matters  The three key components of strategic financial decision-making  Connect with Andrea & Emily: Book a Free Assessment: Text "Tax" to +1 (951) 618-40155 Cash Leaks and 5 Tax Deductions Draining Your Business: https://www.thorneadvisors.com/cashleaksWebsite: https://www.thorneadvisors.com/ IG: https://www.instagram.com/THORNEADVISORS

    15 min

  6. Jun 3

    The 5 Biggest Cash Leaks Costing Business Owners Thousands

    Are you making good money in your business but still wondering where all the cash is going? In this episode of Prosper & Get Paid, Emily and Andrea break down some of the most common cash leaks and missed tax deductions they see when reviewing business finances. These are the issues that show up repeatedly when they work with business owners who feel profitable on paper but struggle to keep cash in the bank. They explain why many entrepreneurs unknowingly leave thousands of dollars on the table each year, not because they aren't working hard enough, but because they lack proactive tax planning and cash flow management. You'll learn about the most overlooked tax deductions, the cash flow mistakes that quietly drain profitability, and why tax preparation alone isn't enough to help you build long-term wealth. Whether you're a new business owner or running a growing company, this episode will help you identify opportunities to keep more of what you earn and make smarter financial decisions throughout the year. In This Episode, We Discuss: Why most business owners miss valuable tax deductionsThe difference between tax preparation and tax strategyHow the home office deduction can reduce your tax liabilityRetirement contributions that can double as tax-saving opportunitiesThe self-employed health insurance deduction many entrepreneurs overlookHow vehicle, equipment, and technology purchases can create tax savingsWhat an accountable plan is and how it can benefit your businessThe pricing mistakes that quietly destroy profit marginsWhy compensation planning impacts both taxes and cash flowHow regular expense audits can uncover hidden cashThe dangers of mixing personal and business financesWhy reactive tax decisions often cost more than they saveCommon mistakes business owners make when using social media tax adviceHow tax strategy should support your long-term goals, not just reduce this year's tax billWhy personalized financial guidance matters more than generic tax strategies Connect with Andrea & Emily: Book a Free Assessment: Text "Tax" to +1 (951) 618-40155 Cash Leaks and 5 Tax Deductions Draining Your Business: https://www.thorneadvisors.com/cashleaksWebsite: https://www.thorneadvisors.com/ IG: https://www.instagram.com/THORNEADVISORS

    20 min

  7. May 27

    LLC vs S Corp: How to Know When It’s Time

    Should you become an S corp? And more importantly… how do you know when it actually makes sense? In this episode, we are breaking down one of the most misunderstood tax topics for entrepreneurs: S corp elections. You’ll also hear practical guidance around income thresholds, reasonable compensation, payroll requirements, bookkeeping expectations, and the hidden costs business owners often overlook before making the switch. Whether you’re currently operating as an LLC or wondering if an S corp election could help you save money, this episode gives a realistic, strategic look at how to make the right decision for your business and long-term financial goals. Tune in to hear: What an S corp actually is and how the election worksThe difference between entity structure and tax electionsWhy S corps are often overhyped onlineSituations where becoming an S corp may not make senseHow S corps reduce self-employment taxesThe additional costs associated with S corp statusWhy bookkeeping becomes even more important after the transitionThe difference between revenue and net income when evaluating S corp eligibilityWhy they recommend waiting until at least $80K–$100K in net incomeHow payroll impacts business cash flowWhat “reasonable compensation” means and why it mattersThe audit risks associated with improper S corp setupWhy S corps are statistically audited less oftenAdditional tax strategies unlocked through S corp electionsReal examples of business owners saving thousands through proper structuring Connect with Andrea & Emily: Book a Free Assessment: Text "Tax" to +1 (951) 618-40155 Cash Leaks and 5 Tax Deductions Draining Your Business: https://www.thorneadvisors.com/cashleaksWebsite: https://www.thorneadvisors.com/ IG: https://www.instagram.com/THORNEADVISORS

    15 min

  8. May 27

    The Tax Mistakes Costing Entrepreneurs Thousands

    If tax season always feels stressful, overwhelming, or completely unexpected… this episode is for you. We are breaking down one of the biggest mistakes business owners make when it comes to taxes: operating reactively instead of proactively. This episode dives into the connection between bookkeeping, cash flow, pricing, profitability, and tax planning and how all of those pieces work together to help you actually keep more of the money you make. You’ll also hear practical ways to uncover hidden cash inside your business, common mistakes business owners make when handling distributions, and why waiting until April to think about taxes can cost you thousands. Whether you’re just starting out or scaling past multiple six or seven figures, this conversation will help you think about your business finances from a completely different perspective. In this episode, they discuss: Why most business owners get surprised by tax billsThe difference between tax prep and tax strategyWhy bookkeeping should guide business decisions year-roundHow proactive tax planning helps reduce what you oweWhy many entrepreneurs feel cash-rich but are actually unpreparedThe importance of reviewing financial reports monthlyWhy outsourcing bookkeeping saves money long-termHow expense audits can quickly free up extra cashCommon subscription and operational “cash leaks” businesses overlookWhy pricing mistakes destroy profitabilityHow poor pricing can impact taxes and cash flowThe connection between clean books and strategic growth decisionsWhy cleanup bookkeeping becomes more expensive the longer you waitHow tax strategy supports long-term wealth building Connect with Andrea & Emily: Book a Free Assessment: Text "Tax" to +1 (951) 618-40155 Cash Leaks and 5 Tax Deductions Draining Your Business: https://www.thorneadvisors.com/cashleaksWebsite: https://www.thorneadvisors.com/ IG: https://www.instagram.com/THORNEADVISORS

    18 min

  9. May 26

    Why Most Business Owners Are Losing Money Without Realizing It

    What if the biggest thing holding your business back isn’t revenue… but what’s happening behind the scenes with your cash flow, pricing, and tax strategy? In this very first episode of Prosper & Get Paid Playbook, the founders of Thorne Advisors, Andrea and Emily, share the story behind why they started the firm and the major gaps they saw in the accounting industry. After years working in public accounting, they realized most business owners were only getting tax preparation, not true financial strategy that aligned with their long-term goals. If you’ve ever wondered whether you’re making smart financial decisions in your business or simply reacting every tax season, this episode will completely shift the way you think about money strategy. Tune in to hear: Why traditional accounting firms often fail business ownersThe difference between tax preparation and true tax strategyHow cash flow issues prevent businesses from scalingCommon “hidden cash leaks” hurting profitabilityWhy agency owners often look profitable but still struggle financiallyThe importance of understanding pricing and operational efficiencyFinancial mistakes entrepreneurs make when taking money out of their businessWhy clean financials matter for loans, investing, and scalingHow multi-state taxes and compliance become more complicated as businesses growThe connection between personal finances and business financesWhy women need more open conversations around money and wealthRed flags to watch for with over-promised tax strategies and aggressive write-offsHow long-term wealth and legacy planning should shape tax decisionsWhy financial literacy matters at every stage of business growth Connect with Andrea & Emily: Book a Free Assessment: Text "Tax" to +1 (951) 618-40155 Cash Leaks and 5 Tax Deductions Draining Your Business: https://www.thorneadvisors.com/cashleaksWebsite: https://www.thorneadvisors.com/ IG: https://www.instagram.com/THORNEADVISORS

    22 min
  • 9 Episodes

5
out of 5
19 Ratings

About

Welcome to the Prosper and Get Paid Playbook, where we break down how to build real wealth without sacrificing your life to do it. We’re your hosts, Emily Bowie and Andrea Mason of Thorne Advisors, and each week we’re diving into the practical money, tax, and cash flow strategies that help you not just make money, but actually keep it and grow it. If you’re a business owner who wants to build income today and legacy for tomorrow, you’re in the right place. Learn more: https://www.thorneadvisors.com/ 

Information

  • Creator
    Emily Bowie & Andrea Mason
  • Years Active
    2K
  • Episodes
    9
  • Rating
    Clean
  • Copyright
    © 2026 Prosper & Get Paid
  • Show Website
    Prosper & Get Paid

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