Business SOS! Common Legal Mistakes Business Owners Make and How to Avoid Them - podcast cover

Business SOS! Common Legal Mistakes Business Owners Make and How to Avoid Them

Rich Sierrasites.libsyn.com
Are you a business owner interested in knowing what to do in any legal issue that might arise in your company and line of work? Join Florida business lawyer Rich Sierra, Author of Business SOS! to hear all about the most common legal mistakes business owners make and how to avoid them. This is not a “legal show” in the traditional sense; this is a conversation with business owners on the various legal issues they face daily and how to handle each of them. Guests are business owners from the local community and professionals who provide services to businesses, and you, as the listener, can submit questions to be answered, as well. There is no “sugar coating” or in-depth analysis of cases; the show will be informative and real. Follow on Apple Podcasts, Spotify, or wherever you enjoy your shows.
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Episodes

Ep. 109 - Suing Someone – The Ultimate Survival Guide (Part 2)

Thinking about filing a lawsuit? Before you head to court, you need to understand the real challenges, risks, and strategies behind suing someone. In this episode of the Business SOS! podcast, Rich Sierra, business attorney and host, breaks down everything business owners need to know when considering legal action. You’ll learn: ⚖️ The hidden costs of suing someone (and how to budget realistically) ⚖️ The emotional toll lawsuits take on business owners and teams ⚖️ Key steps to prepare before yo...

Aug 26, 202533 min

Ep. 108 - Suing Someone – The Ultimate Survival Guide (Part 1)

Thinking about filing a lawsuit? Before you head to court, you need to understand the real challenges, risks, and strategies behind suing someone. In this episode of the Business SOS! podcast, Rich Sierra, business attorney and host, breaks down everything business owners need to know when considering legal action. You’ll learn: ⚖️ The hidden costs of suing someone (and how to budget realistically) ⚖️ The emotional toll lawsuits take on business owners and teams ⚖️ Key steps to prepare before yo...

Aug 19, 202534 min

Ep. 107 - From the Mat to the Marketplace — Building a Family-Owned BJJ Academy

What does it take to turn passion into a purpose-driven business? In this episode of Business SOS!, Rich Sierra and co-host Sharon Sierra sit down with Andrezza Façanha and Edgar Estevez to learn how they launched and now run Andrezza Façanha BJJ Academy as a husband-and-wife team. They discuss the realities of running a family-owned martial arts school — from launching the business, defining roles as a couple, building a culture of discipline and respect, and making BJJ accessible to students o...

Aug 05, 202533 min

Ep. 106 - Empowering Through Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu — Self-Defense, Wellness & Community

In this episode of Business SOS!, Rich Sierra is joined by special co-host Sharon Sierra — a third-degree black belt in Tae Kwon Do and blue belt in BJJ — to interview Andrezza Façanha and Edgar Estevez, founders of Andrezza Façanha BJJ Academy. They share how their academy is empowering students through women’s self-defense programs, inclusive training, wellness, and community outreach. From nervous first-timers to seasoned martial artists, this episode proves Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu is for everyon...

Jul 29, 202533 min

Ep. 105 - 5 Fatal Mistakes Business Owners Make When Buying a Business

Thinking of buying a business? Don’t do anything until you hear this! In this essential episode of Business SOS!, attorney Rich Sierra reveals five fatal mistakes that could turn your dream purchase into a financial nightmare. From failing to conduct proper due diligence to buying the wrong structure, skipping legal protections, and ignoring lease or licensing issues—these are the costly errors that ruin deals and drain bank accounts. If you're considering acquiring a business, this episode is a...

Jul 22, 202535 min

Ep. 104 - Five Shocking Legal Mistakes Destroying Your Business

Are you unknowingly putting your business—and personal assets—at risk? In this eye-opening episode of Business SOS!, attorney Rich Sierra breaks down five shocking legal mistakes that can cripple or even destroy your business. From failing to maintain proper legal structure to ignoring wage laws and using poorly written contracts, these are the landmines every business owner needs to avoid. Learn how to protect yourself from piercing the corporate veil, employee misclassification, insurance fail...

Jul 15, 202535 min

Ep. 103 - Top 10 Mistakes Business Owners Make When Starting a Partnership (Part 2)

In Part 2 of this two-part series, Business SOS! host and attorney Rich Sierra continues breaking down the most common mistakes entrepreneurs make when forming partnerships. This episode dives into the final five mistakes, including failing to create an exit strategy, ignoring tax consequences, and not planning for potential partner disputes. Rich also shares insights on liability exposure, intellectual property rights, and how to proactively avoid internal conflict. If you're entering into or c...

Jul 01, 202528 min

Ep. 102 - Top 10 Mistakes Business Owners Make When Starting a Partnership (Part 1)

In this episode of Business SOS!, attorney and host Rich Sierra revisits one of the most important topics for entrepreneurs: the critical mistakes that can destroy business partnerships before they even begin. In Part 1 of this two-part series, Rich walks through the first five mistakes business owners often make when launching a partnership. From failing to have a written partnership agreement to ignoring role clarity and ownership percentages, these mistakes can lead to misunderstandings, lega...

Jun 24, 202531 min

Ep. 101 - How to Protect Your Business Legacy: Estate Planning for Entrepreneurs - Part 2

Are you prepared for what happens to your business if something happens to you? In this episode of the Business SOS! Podcast, attorney AJ Yolofsky joins Rich Sierra to discuss why estate planning is essential for business owners. Learn how to protect your business, minimize taxes, and ensure a smooth leadership transition. Rich and AJ continue the conversation on Estate Planning and the importance of preparing your business for the due diligence investigation before you sell your business. AJ sh...

Jun 17, 202533 min

Ep. 100 - How to Protect Your Business Legacy: Estate Planning for Entrepreneurs - Part I

Are you prepared for what happens to your business if something happens to you? In this episode of the Business SOS! Podcast, attorney AJ Yolofsky joins Rich Sierra to discuss why estate planning is essential for business owners. Learn how to protect your business, minimize taxes, and ensure a smooth leadership transition. AJ shares key strategies on Wills, Trusts, and Succession Plans every entrepreneur should have in place. Don’t leave the future of your company to chance. 📚 Based on Business...

Jun 10, 202536 min

Ep. 99 - Why Free Legal Templates and AI Contracts Could Cost You Thousands

Using free legal templates or AI-generated contracts might seem like a smart shortcut, but the risks could end up costing you far more than you save. In this episode, Rich Sierra, Esq. explains why one-size-fits-all contracts often fail to protect your business. Learn the dangers of missing clauses, unenforceable terms, and relying on AI tools that can’t understand your specific needs. Rich also shares what every real business contract should include and how to use templates and AI safely—with p...

Jun 03, 202529 min

Ep. 98 - What to Do If Your Business Is Sued in Another State

Episode 98 – What to Do If Your Business Is Sued in Another State In this episode, Rich Sierra, Esq. explains how to respond when your Florida-based business is sued in another state. From understanding personal jurisdiction and avoiding inadvertent consent to court authority, to hiring local counsel and defending your case remotely, this episode walks you through every step. Learn how to challenge jurisdiction, manage out-of-state litigation costs, and avoid getting sued across state lines in t...

May 27, 202533 min

Ep. 97 - Top Mistakes That Can Sink Your Case

In this episode, Rich Sierra, Esq. shares the most common and costly mistakes business owners make during litigation—and how to avoid them. Whether you’re filing a breach of contract claim or defending a lawsuit, client-side errors like missing deadlines, deleting evidence, or refusing to settle can destroy your case. Learn how to work effectively with your attorney, stay prepared, and protect your credibility in court. 💡 Perfect for business owners involved in lawsuits or considering legal act...

May 23, 202532 min

Ep. 96 - I Won My Case… What Next?

Winning a business lawsuit is a huge relief—but it’s not the end of the story. In this episode, Rich Sierra, Esq. breaks down what happens after a judge rules in your favor, whether you’re the plaintiff or the defendant. From enforcing a money judgment and collecting what you're owed to avoiding post-trial pitfalls, this episode covers the next critical steps in your legal journey. You’ll learn about liens, garnishments, appeals, and how to turn a courtroom victory into a real-world result. ✅ To...

May 13, 202529 min

Ep. 95 - How Do I Prepare for a Breach of Contract Trial?

In Episonde 95 of the Business SOS! Podcast, Rich discusses "How to prepare for a breach of contract trial". If you’re a business owner going to trial—whether you’re suing someone or defending your business—your preparation matters. The judge (and possibly jury) will expect clarity, documentation, and professionalism. In this episode, Rich walk's you through the key steps to help you get organized, stay calm, and show up ready. How to Contact Rich Sierra: Via Email at Rich@RichSierra.com https:/...

May 08, 202536 min

Ep. 94 - Avoid These 8 Legal Mistakes When Starting Your Business

In Episode 94 of the Business SOS! podcast, Rich Sierra dedicates this special episode to the graduating class of the Chapman School of Seamanship. Drawing from his book Business SOS!, Rich shares the eight most common legal mistakes new business owners make—and how to avoid them. From signing contracts without legal review to entering partnerships without agreements, this episode is packed with practical advice for anyone launching a marine-based or small business. Whether you’re starting a cha...

Apr 23, 202533 min

Ep. 93 - What's Behind the Alarming Rise of GRAY DIVORCE?

EP. 93. Special Guest- Family Law Attorney Angela Neave. Rich Sierra and Angela Neave, owner of Neave Family Law, go into an indepth discussion on the rise of the Gray Divorce (couples over 50). They discuss the causes and the consequences to the partners and to small businesses. You can reach Angela Neave through her website: https://neavefamilylaw.com/ How to Contact Rich Sierra: Via Email at Rich@RichSierra.com https://www.floridasmallbusinesslegalcenter.com/ FaceBook @ FSBLEGAL Via YouTube a...

Apr 15, 202535 min

Ep. 92 - "What's the REAL Cost of Suing Someone?"

EP. 92 "What's the REAL Cost of Suing Someone?" Many business owners consider lawsuits when conflicts arise—but few fully grasp the financial, emotional, and practical implications. In today's episode, we'll break down the hidden and unexpected costs of litigation, giving you the insights you need to make informed decisions about going to court. How to Contact Rich Sierra: Via Email at Rich@RichSierra.com https://www.floridasmallbusinesslegalcenter.com FaceBook @ FSBLEGAL youtube.com/@RichardSie...

Apr 08, 202535 min

Ep. 91 - The Most Common Reasons Businesses Get Sued (And How to Avoid Them)

EP. 91. The Most Common Reasons Businesses Get Sued (And How to Avoid Them) No business owner expects to end up in court—but lawsuits are a common reality of running a business. Understanding why businesses get sued and how to prevent litigation is essential to protecting your hard-earned assets.. How to Contact Rich Sierra: Via Email at Rich@RichSierra.com https://www.floridasmallbusinesslegalcenter.com FaceBook @ FSBLEGAL youtube.com/@RichardSierra twitter.com/Rich_Sierra Instagram: FSBLEGAL D...

Mar 25, 202534 min

Ep. 90 - How Artificial Intelligence helps our business. Interview with Vicente Silveira , CEO and Co-Founder of MyiDrive.com.

Ep. 90. Rich Sierra interviews Vicente Silveira , CEO and Co-Founder of MyAiDrive.com. The company is at the forefront of AI innovation, helping businesses organize, manage, and maximize their data with AI-powered tools. His company has also developed AI PDF, one of the top plugins on the ChatGPT store, and are continuously building AI solutions to improve business productivity and efficiency. How to Contact Rich Sierra: Via Email at Rich@RichSierra.com https://www.floridasmallbusinesslegalcente...

Mar 18, 202535 min

Ep. 89 - What to do when things go wrong in a lawsuit

What to do when things go wrong in a lawsuit. Rich discusses how to handle negative court rulings in if you are involved in a lawsuit. How to Contact Rich Sierra: Via Email at Rich@RichSierra.com https://www.floridasmallbusinesslegalcenter.com FaceBook @ FSBLEGAL youtube.com/@RichardSierra twitter.com/Rich_Sierra Instagram: FSBLEGAL Digiltal Business Card https://popl.co/card/Qd9D1azj/1/s Also, Business SOS! Eight Common Legal Mistakes Business Owners Make and How to Avoid Them is available on A...

Mar 11, 202532 min

Ep. 88 - Protecting Yourself When Entering a Management Agreement

Ep 88. Protecting Yourself When Entering a Management Agreement. Rich discusses common mistakes business owners make when entering into a management agreement to run someone else's business. How to Contact Rich Sierra: Via Email at Rich@RichSierra.com https://www.floridasmallbusinesslegalcenter.com FaceBook @ FSBLEGAL youtube.com/@RichardSierra twitter.com/Rich_Sierra Instagram: FSBLEGAL Digiltal Business Card https://popl.co/card/Qd9D1azj/1/s Also, Business SOS! Eight Common Legal Mistakes Busi...

Feb 25, 202532 min

Ep. 87 - The Business of Skincare – Insights with Lau Ribeiro

Ep. 87 The Business of Skincare – Insights with Lau Ribeiro. Rich interviews Brazilian Bikini and Skin Care Expert, business owner Lau Ribeiro, the founder of Lau Ribeiro Spa. Lau has built a successful business in the competitive skincare industry, offering tailored treatments such as hydrofacials, dermaplaning, and microneedling and Brazilian Bikini Waxing. In this episode, we’ll dive into Lau’s journey from being a history teacher in Brazil to becoming a thriving business owner in the U.S. We...

Feb 11, 202535 min

Ep. 86 - "The Strategic Sales Leader" with author Derek Wellington Johnson

EP. 86. "The Strategic Sales Leader", "Mastering the art of vision, strategy and execution" with author Derek Wellington Johnson. Rich interviews author and company growth specialist Derek Wellington Johnson. Rich interviews Derek Wellington Johnson and discuss why it is important for business owners to have a defined sales strategy to meet their revenue goals. The book is a guide on how to create an action plan to develop an successful sales strategy and execution. How to Contact Rich Sierra: V...

Feb 04, 202538 min

Ep. 85 - Leveraging Podcasting for Business Marketing Success with Brian Howie, Founder of Podpopuli

Leveraging Podcasting for Business Marketing Success with Brian Howie, Founder of Podpopuli. Rich interviews Brian Howie, the founder of Podpopuli, the fastest growing podcast recording studios in the United States with locations in Boca Raton and Palm Beach Gardens, Florida, Cleveland, Ohio, New York, Greenwitch, Conneticut and Scottsdale, Arizona. Brian is also the host of the #1 dating and relationship podcast in the US, "The Great Love Debate". Rich Sierra records the Business SOS! podcast a...

Jan 28, 202543 min

Ep. 84 - Understanding Trademarks, Copyrights, and Trade Secrets with Attorney John Rizvi-The Patent Professor(R)

EP. 84 Understanding Trademarks, Copyrights, and Trade Secrets with Attorney John Rizvi-The Patent Professor(R). Rich interviews patent attorney John Rizvi AKA- The Patent Professor. Mr. Rizvi is a Board-Certified Patent Attorney with over 20 years of experience in patent, trademark, and copyright law. In this episode, Rich does a "deep dive" into the world of trademarks, copyrights, and trade secrets. How to Contact Rich Sierra: Via Email at Rich@RichSierra.com https://www.floridasmallbusinessl...

Jan 22, 202536 min

Ep. 83 - Understanding Patents with Attorney John Rizvi-The Patent Professor(R)

EP. 83 Understanding Patents with Attorney John Rizvi-The Patent Professor(R). Rich interviews patent attorney John Rizvi AKA- The Patent Professor. Mr. Rizvi is a Board-Certified Patent Attorney with over 20 years of experience in patent, trademark, and copyright law. In this episode, Rich does a "deep dive" into the world of Patents. How to Contact Rich Sierra: Via Email at Rich@RichSierra.com https://www.floridasmallbusinesslegalcenter.com FaceBook @ FSBLEGAL youtube.com/@RichardSierra twitte...

Jan 14, 202536 min

Ep. 82 - Why Mediation is a cost effective method to solve legal disputes.

Ep 82. Why mediation is a cost effective method of resolving legal disputes. Rich does a "deep dive" into the mediation process and why it is an effective tool to resolve legal disputes. How to Contact Rich Sierra: Via Email at Rich@RichSierra.com https://www.floridasmallbusinesslegalcenter.com FaceBook @ FSBLEGAL youtube.com/@RichardSierra twitter.com/Rich_Sierra Instagram: FSBLEGAL . Also, Business SOS! Eight Common Legal Mistakes Business Owners Make and How to Avoid Them is available on Amaz...

Jan 07, 202534 min

Ep. 81 - Can I Afford a Lawsuit? (Revisited)

Ep 81.. Can I Afford a Lawsuit? (Revisited) Rich goes into realistic detail on what are the costs and legal fees associated with being involved in a lawsuit and uses his Litigation Budget Worksheet as a guide. How to Contact Rich Sierra: 1. Via Email at Rich@RichSierra.com 2. https://www.floridasmallbusinesslegalcenter.com 3. FaceBook @ FSBLEGAL 4. youtube.com/@RichardSierra 5. twitter.com/Rich_Sierra 6. Instagram: FSBLEGAL . Also, Business SOS! Eight Common Legal Mistakes Business Owners Make a...

Dec 24, 202437 min

Ep. 80 - Why Initiating or staying in a lawsuit on the basis of principle is a bad idea

Ep. 80 Why Initiating or staying in a lawsuit on the basis of principle is a bad idea. Rich discusses Chapter 8 of his book, Business SOS! Eight Common Mistakes Business Owners Make and How to Avoid Them. How to Contact Rich Sierra: 1. Via Email at Rich@RichSierra.com 2. https://www.floridasmallbusinesslegalcenter.com 3. FaceBook @ FSBLEGAL 4. youtube.com/@RichardSierra 5. twitter.com/Rich_Sierra 6. Instagram: FSBLEGAL . Also, Business SOS! Eight Common Legal Mistakes Business Owners Make and Ho...

Dec 18, 202437 min
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