According to recent research, most service providers are missing opportunities to charge for the full value they deliver, with 57% of agencies losing significant monthly revenue to unbilled scope creep, while 30% experience even greater losses. Perhaps the most surprising statistic is that only 1% of agencies can successfully bill for all out-of-scope work. Understanding the story your data tells can reveal exactly how much value you're giving away for free—and what you ca

These aren't just forgotten subscriptions—they're zombie subscriptions. Dead software that keeps feeding on your profits month after month, draining your cash flow while providing zero value to your business. This isn't about demonizing useful business tools. It's about surviving the zombie subscription apocalypse before these undead expenses completely infect your bottom line.

Being seasonal isn't a character flaw in your business model. It's a different operating style that requires different financial strategies, but it also provides unique advantages once you learn to leverage them.

Small Business Owner figuring out customer profitability

Payment processing doesn't have to be a mystery that quietly drains your profits. While that advertised 2.9% rate might actually cost you 4.5% once you factor in all the hidden fees, you now have the tools to see through the marketing and calculate your true costs. The processor with the flashiest ads or lowest headline rate is rarely the best choice for your specific business.

You're profitable on paper but struggling with cash flow. Sound familiar? The problem might be simpler than you think: hidden costs are eating your profits, and you're not charging enough to cover your true expenses.

Here's the thing nobody explains in plain English: profit and cash measure completely different things. Your profit and loss statement is like a report card for your business model. Your bank account? That's what you can actually spend on groceries this week.

Ever stare at your P&L and feel like you're trying to decode a foreign language? You're not alone. According to QuickBooks®, nearly half (42%) of small business owners had limited financial literacy before starting their businesses. Many have lost potential profits as a result. I don't want that to happen to you. Let's break your P&L down into pieces that actually make sense.

Mid-year is the perfect time to review your financials, make adjustments, and ensure a strong financial position for the second half of the year.

Let's have an honest chat about financial statements. I know - just reading those two words made some of you want to close this tab immediately! But stay with me, because understanding your financial statements isn't just about pleasing your banker or tax preparer. It's about empowering yourself to make smarter decisions for your Iowa business.