Blue Haven Insights
Taxes, Cash Flow & Business Growth for Contractors
Straightforward articles to help trades and contractors keep more of what they earn, clean up their books, and build a stronger bottom line.
Practical money talk for contractors who want to grow smarter—not just work harder.
Where Trades Meet Profit
The Profit Haven Show, brought to you by Blue Haven CPA, is your go-to podcast for all things business in the trades. From managing cash flow to tackling taxes and scaling your crew, we break down the numbers and decisions that help you build a business that works as hard as you do.
Episode 1
Why I Started
HerTax + Accounting GPS
Discover the story behind the HerPath to Profit podcast and how CPA, Jennifer Engle, is helping women entrepreneurs take control of their business finances, reclaim their time, and build profitable businesses with confidence. A must-read for female founders ready to grow with clarity and purpose.
Episode 2
Are You Really Profitable...
Or Just Busy?
Are you constantly hustling in your business but wondering where the money is? In this episode of HerPath to Profit, CPA and entrepreneur Jennifer Engle breaks down the difference between being busy and being profitable — and why understanding your numbers is the key to growing a sustainable, thriving business.
Episode 3
From Chaos to Clarity: How to Understand and Grow Your Revenue
In this episode, we explore the fundamentals of understanding and growing your revenue. Jennifer discusses how to set realistic annual revenue goals, important questions to consider for sales estimation, and key numbers to track for improving profitability. She also dives into specific strategies for both product-based and service-based businesses, from increasing website traffic to optimizing client capacity. Practical action steps are provided to help you start tracking your revenue-driving numbers and align your business with your financial objectives.
Episode 4
What Kinds of Expenses Should You Track in Your Business?
In this episode of HerPath to Profit, hosted by Jennifer Engle, CPA and founder of HerTax and Accounting GPS, Jennifer delves into the importance of tracking business expenses to improve profitability. She covers three main types of expenses: cost of goods sold (COGS), operating expenses, and other expenses. Jennifer explains how to analyze these expenses to understand gross profit margins, make better pricing decisions, and efficiently plan for business growth. She provides examples to illustrate how tracking these categories can reveal inefficiencies and areas for financial improvement. Jennifer also encourages business owners to track expenses monthly and offers a free discovery call for those needing further assistance.
Episode 5
What Women Business Owners Need to Know About the 2025 Tax Act
In this episode of HerPath to Profit, host Jennifer Engle, CPA, discusses the major changes introduced by the newly signed 2025 Tax Act and their implications for women business owners. Highlights include the permanent lowering of tax rates, enhanced standard deductions, the extension and enhancement of the QBI deduction, and the introduction of Section 179 expensing and 100% bonus depreciation. Jennifer also explores strategies to maximize benefits under the new law, such as reinvesting in business equipment, leveraging family-related credits, and planning charitable giving. The episode addresses practical examples and actionable steps, while cautioning listeners about potential pitfalls and compliance requirements. Tune in to stay informed and make the most of the new tax opportunities to build a thriving business and lasting legacy.
Episode 6
Bookkeeping: Your Secret Weapon for Business Success
In this episode of HerPath to Profit, host Jennifer Engle breaks down the importance of bookkeeping for women business owners. Despite its unappealing reputation, bookkeeping is essential for financial clarity, which in turn supports confident decision-making and reduces stress. Jennifer explains how effective bookkeeping saves time, avoids costly mistakes, and provides valuable tax benefits. She also discusses various bookkeeping tools and systems suitable for both DIY enthusiasts and those outsourcing the task. The episode emphasizes a mindset shift towards embracing financial management as a pivotal aspect of successful entrepreneurship.
Episode 7
How to Read Your P&L Like a CEO: Make Smarter, Faster Business Decisions
In this episode of HerPath to Profit, Jennifer Engle, CPA and virtual CFO, demystifies the profit and loss statement (P&L) for women business owners. Learn how to read and use your P&L to uncover critical insights about your business performance, from understanding revenue trends and cost of goods sold, to analyzing gross margins and operating expenses. Jennifer shares actionable tips on making data-driven decisions, improving operational efficiency, and increasing profitability. Plus, discover the five CEO-level questions to ask yourself every month for a more strategic approach to business management. Don't miss out on transforming your P&L into a powerful tool for growth and success.
Episode 8
Smart Tax Strategies for Business Owners: Five Signs You're Overpaying in Taxes
In this episode of HerPath to Profit, Jennifer Engle, CPA and CFO, discusses a crucial question for business owners: Are you overpaying in taxes? Jennifer uncovers five common signs that indicate overpayment and shares strategies to save money. She addresses misconceptions such as spending to save on taxes, choosing the wrong entity structure, overlooking tax credits, short-term tax planning, and feeling unprepared during tax season. Watch to learn how to optimize your tax strategy and ensure your business thrives financially.
Episode 9
CFO vs. CPA: What Your Business Actually Needs
In this episode of HerTax + Accounting GPS, business owners are guided through the distinct roles of CPAs and CFOs, specifically tailored for businesses generating $1 million to $25 million in revenue. A CPA focuses on compliance and accuracy, handling bookkeeping, payroll, and tax filings to ensure financial records are correct and taxes are filed on time. Conversely, a CFO is a financial strategist who plans for the future, analyzes cash flow, and helps shape business decisions to foster growth and profitability. The episode emphasizes the importance of having both roles for building a scalable and thriving business. HerTax + Accounting GPS offers comprehensive accounting services, including CFO and controller services, to support growth and strategic planning for businesses.
Episode 10
What To Look For Before You Buy A Business
In this episode of 'HerPath to Profit,' we discuss key considerations for buying a business. We highlight common fears such as cash flow risk, culture fit, customer experience, leadership challenges, and hidden liabilities. She emphasizes the importance of due diligence focusing on customer concentration, revenue quality, key employees, competitive edge, and strategic fit. We also illustrate potential pitfalls through a hypothetical case of a failed acquisition. The episode underscores the need for thorough financial analysis and strategic alignment to ensure acquisitions drive growth and stability.
Episode 11
Three Financial Reports That Will Change How You Run Your Business
In this episode of HerPath to Profit, host and CFO guide Jennifer Engle explores financial reports that go beyond the profit and loss statement to ensure business health. By delving into cashflow forecasts, accounts receivable and accounts payable aging reports, and margins by service line, Jennifer demonstrates how understanding these reports can lead to smarter financial decisions and stronger businesses. Through practical examples, she illustrates the importance of cash timing, cash management, and prioritizing high-margin work. These insights offer key takeaways for protecting your business from financial surprises and achieving sustainable growth.
Episode 10
What To Look For Before You Buy A Business
In this episode of 'HerPath to Profit,' we discuss key considerations for buying a business. We highlight common fears such as cash flow risk, culture fit, customer experience, leadership challenges, and hidden liabilities. She emphasizes the importance of due diligence focusing on customer concentration, revenue quality, key employees, competitive edge, and strategic fit. We also illustrate potential pitfalls through a hypothetical case of a failed acquisition. The episode underscores the need for thorough financial analysis and strategic alignment to ensure acquisitions drive growth and stability.
Blue Haven CPA PLLC is a virtual CPA firm providing bookkeeping, payroll, and tax planning for contractors and trades businesses. Serving clients across Charlotte, Harmony, Mooresville, Statesville, Huntersville, Cornelius and surrounding areas in North Carolina.
Disclaimers:
Blue Haven CPA PLLC provides tax preparation, tax planning, and accounting services tailored for contractors and trades. The content on this website is for informational purposes only and should not be considered tax, legal, or financial advice. Every tax situation is unique, and tax laws change frequently. Before making any tax-related decisions, consult a qualified professional.
At Blue Haven CPA PLLC, we are dedicated to helping you maximize your tax savings and optimize your financial strategy. However, tax outcomes vary based on individual circumstances, tax law changes, and compliance requirements. We do not guarantee specific refunds, savings, or results.
Reaching out to Blue Haven CPA PLLC via this website, email, or phone does not establish a client-accountant relationship. A signed engagement letter and completed payment are required before any services begin. We look forward to working with you, but please note that general inquiries do not constitute professional advice.
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