17 hours ago

S1E30 - From Pageants to Policy: Amber Hulse on Winning Against the Odds

What does it take to unseat an eight-year incumbent as one of the youngest women ever elected to the South Dakota State Senate? Amber Hulse shares her path—from growing up on a ranch in a veteran family, to Georgetown Law, to becoming a freshman legislator—and how her early commitment to service shaped everything that followed.

In this episode, host Meghan McNulty speaks with Amber about what prepared her to lead, how she developed a compelling message, and why diverse voices—especially young women—belong at every decision-making table. Amber reflects on the challenges of fundraising, navigating criticism as a young, unmarried woman, and the real issues she’s working on, including property tax reform and election integrity.

A Georgetown Law grad and former Miss South Dakota and Miss South Dakota USA, Amber opens up about balancing her legal career, public service, and a life in the spotlight—all while staying grounded in her mission. Whether you’re building a business, interested in legislative journeys, or just learning to trust your gut, Amber’s story offers inspiration and practical applications for business owners and emerging leaders.

Key Takeaways You don’t need a legacy to lead. Amber didn’t come from a political family—and she didn’t wait for permission to step up. Her story reminds us that if you see a gap in leadership, you can be the one to fill it, even without traditional credentials or a well-known name. The power of clear messaging. Amber credits much of her campaign success to refining her “why.” Whether you’re pitching investors or selling a service, a sharp, compelling message makes all the difference in gaining support. Preparation beats perception. As a young candidate running against an incumbent, Amber faced doubts—but her deep prep, internships, and legal experience earned her respect. Diverse perspectives drive better outcomes. Amber highlights the importance of generational, gender, and professional diversity in decision-making. Fresh perspectives often lead to smarter, more innovative solutions. Burnout is real—balance matters. Despite her full plate, Amber is honest about the mental toll of juggling public service, law, and life. Her reminder to stay grounded, prioritize values, and not tie your identity to a title is advice every founder or leader should hear.

This conversation is a must-listen for emerging leaders, entrepreneurs, and anyone who’s ever been told they’re “not ready.” Amber didn’t wait her turn—and her story may spark the next step in yours.

About Meghan’s Guest State Senator Amber Hulse is a rising Republican leader and attorney, currently serving as one of the youngest legislators in the country as a State Senator in South Dakota. Raised on a hunting ranch in Hot Springs, her dedication to service was deeply influenced by her father, a 100% disabled Vietnam veteran.

Amber graduated Phi Beta Kappa, Summa Cum Laude from the University of South Dakota and earned her law degree from Georgetown, where she served as President of the Federalist Society. Her political experience includes positions with the White House, U.S. Senate Judiciary Committee, and state and federal offices across the country.

She’s also one of only four women to hold both the Miss South Dakota and Miss South Dakota USA titles.

Currently, Amber is an associate at Dhillon Law Group and the youngest Republican woman ever elected to South Dakota’s State Senate. She’s passionate about empowering conservative women and bringing fresh leadership to public service.

To learn more or get in touch, visit amberforsouthdakota.com or email [email protected]. Follow Amber on Instagram

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14 days ago

S1E29 - Business on Tap: Lessons in Launching, Pivoting & Thriving as Local Entrepreneurs

What does it really take to turn a casual conversation over beers into a thriving business rooted in community and family? In this episode of Business Talk with Meghan McNulty, brothers JP and Christian share their journey of building Dana Point Ale House, a craft beer destination rooted in history, hospitality, and hustle.

For business owners and entrepreneurs, this conversation is packed with insights — from forming an LLC overnight and navigating city permits, to attracting investors and adapting the business model when unexpected roadblocks arise. JP and Christian reveal how they leveraged local connections, embraced the power of hyperlocal marketing, and turned a family-owned business into a community hub.

They also dive into the realities of working with family, the importance of listening to your customers, and how flexibility and creativity kept them afloat during the early, uncertain days. Whether you’re thinking about launching a business in your hometown, rethinking your marketing strategy, or balancing a side hustle with family life — there’s something here for you.

Key Takeaways: Embrace community-focused marketing (i.e. partnering with local businesses and parent groups). Find creative ways to pivot when your first business plan doesn’t work out. Understand the realities of family partnerships — how to make it work and avoid unnecessary conflict. Build a business that reflects your values and your community’s culture — authenticity attracts loyalty. Use local history or culture to help shape your brand story and stand out.

Whether you're a seasoned entrepreneur or just starting to explore your own business idea, JP and Christian’s story is a reminder that passion, persistence, and strong community ties can turn an idea into something special.

Tune in to hear their story, their lessons, and how they’re continuing to evolve as business owners — all while staying true to their roots.

About Meghan’s Guests

Christian Goodman A Southern California native, Christian Goodman has over 20 years of experience in the restaurant, bar, and hospitality industry. After graduating from UCLA in 2012, he pursued his passion for craft beer, working with Stone Brewing before becoming the owner and operator of Dana Point Ale House in 2022. His taproom showcases the best craft beers California has to offer. When he’s not working, Christian enjoys time with family, discovering new beers, and listening to punk rock.

JP Goodman Born and raised in South Orange County, JP Goodman has spent over a decade in the craft beer industry. A 2013 graduate of Cal State Fullerton, he started his career at Stone Brewing, gaining extensive experience in brewing, sales, and distribution. In 2022, he and his brother Christian turned their longtime dream into reality by opening Dana Point Ale House. Since 2019, JP has worked as an Area Sales Manager for Brewery X in Anaheim while helping at the taproom. In his free time, he enjoys pouring beers, spending time with his wife and daughter, and supporting the local craft beer community.

Follow Dana Point Ale House on Instagram @danapointalehouse and visit danapointalehouse.com for their latest beer list, events, and more.

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28 days ago

S1E28 - Wildfires, Insurance, and the California Crisis: What Homeowners Need to Know with Daniel Gonzales-Hatton

California’s wildfires aren’t just destroying homes, they’re reshaping the entire insurance market. As insurers pull out of high-risk areas, homeowners are facing rising costs, coverage gaps, and new challenges. In this episode, Meghan McNulty sits down with property insurance professional Daniel Gonzales-Hatton to break down what’s happening and what you can do about it.

They discuss why insurance companies are retreating from California, how the FAIR Plan works (and its limitations), and why trusts and LLCs can complicate claims if not handled correctly. Daniel also shares what homeowners should do before disaster strikes, including reviewing policy limits, working with brokers, and ensuring the right entities are listed on insurance documents.

If you own property in California—or just want to understand the shifting insurance landscape—this episode is packed with insights to help you protect your home and financial future.

About Meghan’s Guest Daniel Gonzales-Hatton is the Agency Owner at Goosehead Insurance, a nationally recognized independent agency founded in 2003, specializing in residential property coverage for homeowners, realtors, and loan officers. With extensive industry experience, he provides tailored insurance solutions that ensure seamless transactions and comprehensive protection.

A trusted resource in California’s evolving insurance market, Daniel helps clients navigate coverage challenges, regulatory hurdles, and complex ownership structures such as trusts and LLCs. His commitment to education and transparency empowers both consumers and professionals through workshops, informative content, and one-on-one consultations.

Beyond his work, Daniel’s passion for travel and adventure brings a well-rounded perspective to his client-focused approach.

Lean more - www.gooseheadinsurance.com Contact Daniel - [email protected] CA License # 0K45577 AZ License # 17707678

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1 month ago

S1E27 - Boost Your Bottom Line: Essential Bookkeeping Strategies with Jana Brusch

Is managing your business finances a constant struggle? In this episode of Business Talk with Meghan McNulty, she and professional bookkeeper Jana Brusch, discuss the essential role of bookkeeping and how it supports business success.

This episode covers:

  • Avoiding Common Financial Traps: Jana reveals the common financial pitfalls that can derail a business, including mixing personal and business funds and neglecting expense tracking.
  • The Human Element in Bookkeeping: Even with tools like QuickBooks, human oversight is crucial. Jana shares a cautionary story about a $1.4 million "grocery" expense.
  • When to Hire a Bookkeeper: Learn when it's the right time to bring a bookkeeper on board, especially given the current CPA shortage.
  • Organized Finances, Less Stressful Taxes: Discover the connection between good bookkeeping practices and a smoother tax season.
  • Jana's Entrepreneurial Journey: Hear Jana's inspiring story of transitioning from bridal fashion to bookkeeping and building a successful business through referrals.

This episode is packed with actionable advice for any business owner looking to improve their financial health and build a foundation for sustainable growth. Tune in now!

About Meghan’s Guest Jana Brusch is a seasoned financial professional with a background in accounting and business management. A graduate of Budapest Business Schooll's Faculty of Finance and Accounting, Jana honed her skills managing quality and compliance for a national rehabilitation center before launching her own successful accounting business. She and her team specialize in streamlining financial processes for businesses and high-net- worth individuals, providing comprehensive support from bookkeeping and budgeting to financial reporting and tax preparation coordination. Jana's clients range from investment firms and construction companies to retail stores and individuals seeking personal financial management. Her focus is on simplifying financial complexities and ensuring accurate, timely reporting, allowing clients to focus on their core business or personal endeavors. Learn more at Seashore Bookkeeping

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1 month ago

S1E26 - Biohacking, Longevity & the Future of Anti-Aging with Dr. Iman Bar

Is aging inevitable? Or can we slow—or even reverse—it? In this episode, Meghan McNulty sits down with Dr. Iman Bar, a pioneer in integrative and regenerative medicine, to explore how biohacking, peptides, and stem cells are transforming the way we age.

Dr. Bar explains how aging actually begins in your 30s, why hormonal shifts and inflammation accelerate the process, and how cutting-edge treatments like peptides, exosomes, and IV therapy can optimize health and longevity. She also introduces the concept of "zombie cells"—damaged cells that linger in the body, accelerating aging and inflammation—and shares how intermittent fasting, regenerative medicine, and lifestyle changes can help eliminate them.

What You’ll Learn: Why stem cells & exosomes are the future of regenerative medicine The role of biohacking & AI-driven health tracking in personalized wellness How to eliminate "zombie cells" and slow cellular aging The growing impact of Med Spas & functional medicine on proactive healthcare

Want to feel better, look younger, and age smarter? Tune in for expert insights on optimizing longevity and unlocking your body’s full potential.

About Meghan’s Guest Dr. Iman Bar, MD has been practicing medicine since 1990, starting in pediatrics and women’s health, where she earned numerous accolades, including "Top Doctor" by the American Medical Association. In 2010, she shifted toward holistic medicine, specializing in Homeopathy and Herbal Medicine and earning Board Certification from the American Association of Integrative Medicine in 2012. As the founder of BarXMD, Dr. Bar is passionate about identifying the root causes of symptoms and optimizing health through a variety of modalities such hormone replacement, toxicities, allergies, or nutrient deficiencies. She stays at the forefront of integrative medicine, regularly attending conferences to bring cutting-edge treatments to her patients.

Learn more at www. www.drbarx.com

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2 months ago

S1E25 - Building a Thriving Medical Spa: Growth, Compliance, and Patient-Centered Care (with Jenny Ghazaryan)

In this episode, Meghan explores one of the fastest-growing segments in healthcare—aesthetic medicine. Her guest, Jenny Ghazaryan, co-founder of Skinsation Medical Aesthetic Clinics, shares her journey from public health and dermatology to launching multiple thriving med spas, all while prioritizing patient safety, natural-looking outcomes, and compliance with ever-evolving regulations. Drawing on her extensive experience, Jenny offers insights into business development and staying compliant in a rapidly changing market.

Key Strategies for Expansion: How to balance fast growth with operational excellence. Compliance & Regulation: Why understanding legal requirements is vital for safeguarding patient trust and your bottom line. Patient-Centered Care: Tips on crafting a personalized, “makeup-optional” experience that keeps clients coming back. Team Building & Culture: Discover how to recruit and train top talent to deliver high-quality treatments in a warm, supportive environment.

Whether you’re adding aesthetic services to an existing practice or looking to elevate your current medical spa, this episode is packed with insights to help you achieve sustainable success.

About Meghan’s Guest Jenny Ghazaryan is the co-founder of Skinsation, a boutique medical aesthetics clinic with locations in Los Angeles and Newport Beach. With over a decade in the medical field and seven years in med spa management, she has helped launch eight successful medical spas and now offers consulting in business development and compliance. At Skinsation, Jenny focuses on managing operations and building a highly skilled team of experts who deliver personalized treatments. Her mission is to create an environment where clients can achieve a healthy, makeup-optional complexion while feeling confident and cared for every step of the way.

Learn more at www.skinsationoc.com

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4 months ago

S1E24 - Navigating Policy Shifts: National Security, Economic Impact, and New Opportunities for American Businesses

In this episode of Business Talk with Meghan McNulty, Meghan welcomes Brandon H. Wheeler, a U.S. Marine Corps combat veteran and current CEO and President of the Freedom Research Foundation. With a political science background and over 35 years spent navigating cultural, political, and social dynamics in more than 110 countries,

Brandon shares valuable insights on the business implications of shifting U.S. national security priorities under the new Trump administration.

From changes in financial markets and a stronger dollar to cybersecurity and supply chain security, Brandon offers an inside look at how these policies could impact American businesses. Gain insights into the administration’s approach to reducing overseas dependence for essential goods, supporting American manufacturing, and creating a fairer playing field for U.S. companies through tariff policies and strategic international partnerships.

As someone deeply involved in both global security and economic policy, Brandon explains what business owners can expect from evolving government strategies, the economic ripple effects of new national security goals, and what it means for American businesses navigating today’s complex landscape. This episode is a must-listen for business owners looking to stay ahead in a time of change and seize new opportunities driven by U.S. policy shifts.

About Meghan’s Guest Brandon H. Wheeler is a US Marine Corps combat veteran with a political science degree from the Virginia Military Institute. He is currently CEO and President of the Board of the Freedom Research Foundation a Washington, D.C. based 501(c)3 not-for-profit. Brandon served in Operation Unified Protector, Operation Enduring Freedom, and was the commander of the elite Fleet Anti-Terrorism Security Team Company Pacific.

Over the past 35 years while spending months at a time in over 110 countries, Brandon has come to understand the cultural, political, and social intricacies of each region.

Learn more at www.freedomresearchfoundation.org

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4 months ago

S1E23 - From Courtrooms to Contracts: Navigating Sports, Entertainment, and Business Law with Jeremy Evans

Episode 23

In this episode, Meghan speaks with Jeremy Evans, a leader in sports and entertainment law, about insights that every business owner can use. Jeremy shares how he built his brand “California Sports Lawyer” by combining his legal skills with a passion for sports, and he discusses the challenges and strategies involved in running a solo practice, building a brand, and finding ways to diversify income.

The conversation also covers key legal issues beyond sports, like contract negotiation, intellectual property protection, and reputation management in the age of social media. Jeremy provides an inside look at the current NIL (Name, Image, and Likeness) rights landscape, social media’s impact on athlete compensation, and new trends like morality clauses—all important points for business owners focused on protecting their brand.

For those interested in personal brand-building or content creation, Jeremy talks about staying authentic and creating meaningful content. He also highlights the importance of community involvement and mentorship, emphasizing the balance between professional goals and personal life—an approach that resonates with business owners looking to make a broader impact.

About Meghan’s Guest Jeremy M. Evans, an award-winning attorney, is the Founder and Managing Attorney of California Sports Lawyer®, based in Los Angeles and Newport Beach. Specializing in entertainment, media, and sports law, Jeremy advises Fortune 500 companies, entrepreneurs, and talent on complex contract and intellectual property negotiations. He is also the host and executive producer of The California Sports Lawyer® podcast, the world’s top sports law show, has contributed columns to California Sports Lawyer®, Barrett Sports Media, Sports Radio America, and DodgersNation.com on industry trends, legal insights, and sports commentary.

Formerly President of the California Lawyers Association, Jeremy now leads the California Lawyers Foundation and serves on the Rose Bowl Legacy Foundation Board.

His academic credentials include an M.B.A. in Entertainment, Media, & Sports Management and an LL.M. in Entertainment, Media, & Sports Law from Pepperdine University, a J.D. from Thomas Jefferson School of Law, and a B.A. in Political Science from UCLA.

Learn more at www.csllegal.com

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5 months ago

S1E22 - Understanding Probate and Trust Litigation: Family Dynamics, Legal Strategies, and Best Practices

Episode Description: In this insightful episode, Meghan McNulty welcomes Sean D. Muntz, Managing Partner at RMO LLP, to delve into the complex world of probate and trust litigation. With over 20 years of experience representing beneficiaries and fiduciaries, Sean shares his expertise on resolving disputes outside of court, highlighting the differences between probate and trust litigation, common family conflicts, and strategies to avoid costly legal battles. Listeners will gain actionable advice on mediation, fiduciary roles, and how proper estate planning can safeguard their assets.

Meghan and Sean explore critical issues like family conflicts in blended families, common trust disputes, and the emotional and financial toll of litigation. Listeners will learn about the benefits of mediation over court battles, how undue influence and trustee malfeasance are handled legally, and practical strategies to protect estates from future disputes.

From avoiding probate to resolving trust disputes this episode offers valuable insights and actionable advice for anyone involved in estate planning or trust litigation.

About Meghan’s Guest Sean D. Muntz is the Managing Partner at RMO LLP, specializing in trust, estate, and probate litigation. With over 20 years of experience, he represents beneficiaries and fiduciaries in complex disputes across California. Sean was a partner at an international law firm, handling litigation for global financial institutions, and he previously served as in-house counsel for Fortune 100 companies, earning an FBI commendation for his role in a landmark espionage case.

He holds a J.D. from the University of Southern California and a B.A. in Journalism and Political Science from the University of Hawaii. Named "Best Lawyer" in Trusts and Estates (2024-2025) and a "Super Lawyer" (2018-2024), Sean is highly regarded in his field with over 20+ notable appellate opinions.

Learn more at www.rmolawyers.com

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6 months ago

S1E21 - From Engineer to Entrepreneur: How Melissa Foltman Built Fuelbar Health into a Thriving Business!

In this episode of Business Talk with Meghan McNulty, Melissa Foltman, CEO and owner of Fuelbar Health, shares her inspiring journey from a successful engineering career to becoming a thriving entrepreneur in the health and wellness industry. For business owners looking for insight and inspiration, Melissa's story provides practical insights into resilience, innovation, and maintaining quality in business which includes partnering with the vendors who share your vision for sustained success. Meghan and Melissa discuss scaling challenges, including navigating complex regulations and the unexpected benefits of launching during the COVID-19 pandemic. They also explore the intricacies of building and mentoring a team, and how Melissa fosters a strong sense of community within her business. Looking to the future, Melissa outlines her expansion plans and potential franchising opportunities, all while remaining committed to providing genuinely healthy, comforting food.

Whether you're launching a new venture or scaling an existing one, Melissa’s experiences with Fuelbar Health provide actionable insights and inspiration to guide you through the challenges and opportunities ahead.

About Meghan’s Guest Melissa Foltman is the CEO of Fuelbar Health, a company she founded after transitioning from a successful engineering career. Originally from Chicago, Melissa earned her Mechanical Engineering degree from Marquette University before moving to California.

Despite her successful engineering career, Melissa discovered a passion for health and wellness that led her to start Fuelbar Health.

Leveraging her engineering background and entrepreneurial drive, Melissa has grown Fuelbar Health into a well-regarded business known in the community for its commitment to quality and customer satisfaction.

Learn more at www.fuelbarhealth.com

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7 months ago

S1E20 - Behind the Curtain of Trust Litigation: Family Feuds, Celebrity Battles, and the Hidden Costs!

In this episode, Meghan McNulty sits down with trust litigation attorney Alison Gokal to delve into the complexities of trust litigation and probate. Alison explains when trust litigation typically starts—often after the death or incapacitation of the trust creator—and details the intricate processes involved, particularly with large assets and multiple beneficiaries.

Meghan and Allison discuss strategies for navigating family disputes and offer insights into common issues, from family feuds to managing estates across different states. Alison highlights the importance of comprehensive estate planning and the potential pitfalls of relying on services like LegalZoom, which may not fully support your goals. Even high-profile estates, such as that of Aretha Franklin, can face significant challenges due to improper planning.

Whether you're establishing a trust or grappling with estate planning challenges, this episode is essential listening for understanding and managing the complexities of trust litigation.

About Meghan’s Guest Alison S. Gokal is a distinguished attorney and co-founder of Gokal Law Group, Inc., specializing in trust litigation, estate administration, and probate matters. Alison and her team are committed to helping clients navigate the complexities of trust and probate law, including providing legal advocacy for trustees, beneficiaries, and elders.

In addition to her work in trust litigation, Alison has successfully litigated against major corporations such as CALTRANS, Ford, Evenflo, PepsiCo, Coca-Cola, ContinentalTires, Nexen Tires, Hilton, Air France, and Tesla.

Outside of her legal practice, Alison enjoys spending time with her husband Abbas and their three children. She is also active in her community, volunteering and serving on two nonprofit boards.

Learn more at www.gokallaw.com

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