Overview
The Main Street Business Podcast, hosted by attorneys Mat Sorensen and Mark J. Kohler, is the go-to resource for entrepreneurs, investors, and business owners who want to build, protect, and manage their wealth. Each episode explores real-world scenarios and offers practical advice on business structuring, tax planning, side hustles, real estate, self-directed retirement accounts, and more.
With decades of combined legal and tax experience Mark and Mat make complex financial topics understandable through charismatic discussions and practical education. Their goal is to empower listeners to make smarter legal and financial decisions by turning advanced concepts into clear, actionable strategies for LLCs, corporations, estate planning, tax reduction, raising capital, asset protection, and retirement planning.
Mark J. Kohler is a CPA, attorney, best-selling author of six books, and a nationally recognized authority on small business tax and legal strategies. Mark serves as a Senior Partner at KKOS Lawyers and Board Member at Directed IRA Trust Company, which manages over $3 billion in assets. As the founder of the Main Street Certified Tax Advisor Program, Mark has trained thousands of CPAs and Enrolled Agents nationwide, helping millions of small business owners better navigate tax and legal strategies. Mark also co-hosts The Main Street Business Podcast along with Mat Sorensen.
Mat Sorensen is an attorney, best-selling author of The Self-Directed IRA Handbook, and CEO of Directed IRA & Directed Trust Company, a leading self-directed IRA custodian with nearly $3 billion under administration. He is a national expert on self-directed retirement strategies and a Senior Partner at KKOS Lawyers. Mat also co-hosts The Main Street Business Podcast along with Mark J. Kohler.
624 Episodes
Did you deduct actual expenses or use the standard mileage rate for your vehicle? More importantly, was that the best choice for your situation? Book a comprehensive tax and business consultation with Mark and Mats firm KKOS Lawyers to ensure your strategy works for you. Grab my eBook 30 Unique Strategies Every Business Owner Should Know! You don't want to miss this! Secure your tickets for the #1 Event For Small Business Owners On Main Street America: Main Street 360 Lo...
Transcribed - Published: 13 May 2026
Want to make sure your LLC is in order? Book a Call with Mat and Marks Law firm KKOS Lawyers and Get your Entity Cleaned Up https://kkoslawyers.com/entity-clean-up/ Grab my eBook 30 Unique Strategies Every Business Owner Should Know! You don't want to miss this! Secure your tickets for the #1 Event For Small Business Owners On Main Street America: Main Street 360 Looking to connect with a rock star law firm? KKOS is only a click away! Are you ready to get certi...
Transcribed - Published: 6 May 2026
Get your entity structured the right way. Schedule a review to maximize your tax benefits and strengthen your asset protection. Book an Entity Structure consultation with Mark and Mats Attorneys at KKOS Lawyers. Book a Call Here. Grab my eBook 30 Unique Strategies Every Business Owner Should Know! You don't want to miss this! Secure your tickets for the #1 Event For Small Business Owners On Main Street America: Main Street 360 Looking to connect with a rock star law firm...
Transcribed - Published: 28 April 2026
Can't pay your taxes? Get a Comprehensive Tax and Business Consultation so this never happens again. Book a Call Here Marks most recent article - https://markjkohler.com/blog/what-to-do-if-i-cant-pay-my-taxes-by-deadline Grab my eBook 30 Unique Strategies Every Business Owner Should Know! You don't want to miss this! Secure your tickets for the #1 Event For Small Business Owners On Main Street America: Main Street 360 Looking to connect with a rock star law firm? K...
Transcribed - Published: 21 April 2026
Don't delay get your plan in place - https://kkoslawyers.com/services/comprehensive-estate-plan/ Grab my eBook 30 Unique Strategies Every Business Owner Should Know! You don't want to miss this! Secure your tickets for the #1 Event For Small Business Owners On Main Street America: Main Street 360 Looking to connect with a rock star law firm? KKOS is only a click away! Are you ready to get certified in EVERY strategy I teach? Start your journey with a FREE 15-minute ...
Transcribed - Published: 15 April 2026
What would you do if you lost $50 million and thousands of properties overnight? In this powerful episode of the Main Street Business Podcast, real estate investor Rod Khleif shares his raw story of the 2008 crash, how he lost over 2,000 properties, and the mindset that helped him rebuild an even bigger portfolio through multifamily investing. This conversation breaks down hard-earned lessons from failure, the truth about single-family vs. multifamily investing, and why mindset is the real ke...
Transcribed - Published: 7 April 2026
How many business entities do you actually need as an entrepreneur? In this episode of the Main Street Business Podcast, Mark J. Kohler and Mat Sorensen break down the real strategy behind structuring multiple businesses, protecting assets, and scaling the right way. They walk through the key reasons you may need separate entities, including liability protection, partnerships, exit strategies, regulatory requirements, and branding. Through real-world examples — including costly mistakes entre...
Transcribed - Published: 27 March 2026
If you got sued tomorrow, could you lose your home? In this episode of the Main Street Business Podcast, Mark J. Kohler and Mat Sorensen break down the real risks to your home equity — and the smart strategies you can use right now to protect it before it’s too late. From homestead exemptions to equity stripping, this is essential knowledge every homeowner and investor needs to understand. We dive into how different states protect your home, when creditors can (and can’t) touch your equity, ...
Transcribed - Published: 20 March 2026
In this Open Forum episode of the Main Street Business Podcast, Mark J. Kohler and Mat Sorensen answer real questions from business owners about taxes, investing, and scaling a successful company. From the brand-new “Trump accounts” for kids to real estate tax strategies and smart ways to grow your business, this episode breaks down complex financial topics into practical advice you can actually use. They explain how parents might use Trump accounts to create long-term wealth for their kids,...
Transcribed - Published: 13 March 2026
Are the tax benefits of bonus depreciation and real estate investing really as powerful as they’re advertised? In this episode, Mark J. Kohler and Mat Sorensen break down the truth behind the popular tax strategy that many investors believe will dramatically reduce their taxes. The reality may surprise you. Using real examples, they explain how depreciation, cost segregation, and passive losses actually work — and why many investors misunderstand how those losses can (or cannot) offset incom...
Transcribed - Published: 6 March 2026
Privacy is under attack again — and real estate investors need to pay attention. A new federal rule tied to FinCEN and the Corporate Transparency Act now requires certain residential real estate transfers to file a Real Estate Report disclosing personal information of LLC owners. If you’re transferring property to an LLC, buying with cash, or using creative financing without a bank involved, this could apply to you starting March 1st. In this episode of the Main Street Business Podcast, Mark ...
Transcribed - Published: 27 February 2026
What if you could build real passive income from rental properties without becoming a landlord glued to your phone? In this episode, Mark J. Kohler interviews real estate investor and educator Dustin Heiner to break down how beginner investors can build a rental real estate business that generates consistent cash flow — without doing all the work themselves. Dustin shares how getting laid off pushed him to rethink everything, how he scaled to 30+ single-family homes and nearly 1,000 apartment...
Transcribed - Published: 25 February 2026
Should you take the tax deduction today… or build tax-free wealth for tomorrow? In this episode of the Main Street Business Podcast, Mark J. Kohler and Mat Sorensen break down the Roth vs. Traditional IRA debate and explain why the “lower tax bracket in retirement” argument doesn’t always hold up in the real world. They walk through the math, the mindset, and the long-term strategy behind both options — including inheritance planning, self-directing for higher returns, tax rate uncertainty, f...
Transcribed - Published: 20 February 2026
We challenge the fear cycle around real estate and show why disciplined contrarian buying can work in 2026. We walk through real multifamily distress, market absorption, and why basis and debt terms now matter more than flashy rent growth. • rates rising and bridge debt resets driving distress in capital stacks • absorption trends in Phoenix versus oversupply in Austin and Dallas • why coastal markets improved due to scarce new supply • buying stabilized, well‑located multifamily at 30–40% d...
Transcribed - Published: 13 February 2026
Are you making smart tax and legal decisions, or leaving money on the table without realizing it? In this episode of the Main Street Business Podcast, Mark J. Kohler tackles your toughest questions and breaks down real-world tax strategies, asset protection myths, and retirement planning mistakes that business owners and investors face every day. From selling million-dollar collectibles and avoiding unnecessary taxes, to understanding how S Corporations can impact Social Security benefits la...
Transcribed - Published: 30 January 2026
In this Open Forum episode of the Main Street Business Podcast, Mark J. Kohler and Mat Sorensen tackle real-world tax, legal, and business questions straight from small business owners and investors. From S corporations and QBI deductions to rental real estate, asset protection myths, HSAs, and retirement account strategies, this episode cuts through bad advice and explains what actually works under current IRS rules. The discussion covers common traps like trying to deduct personal investing...
Transcribed - Published: 16 January 2026
Most entrepreneurs set goals every year… and most of them fail to follow through. In this episode of the Main Street Business Podcast, Mark J. Kohler and Mat Sorensen break down their proven, real-world process for building a strategic plan that actually works in 2026 and beyond. You’ll learn how to think long-term without burning out short-term, why writing your plan down is non-negotiable, and how to reverse-engineer a 10-year vision into realistic one-year action steps. Mark and Mat walk t...
Transcribed - Published: 9 January 2026
Buying a new truck or piece of equipment before December 31 can feel like the ultimate year-end tax hack, but this episode breaks down why that decision can either save you thousands or create a painful tax bill you never saw coming. Mark J. Kohler and Mat Sorensen walk through the real math behind deductions, bonus depreciation, basis, and business-use percentages so you don’t fall into the traps many business owners hit when rushing into a purchase for the write-off. If you’ve ever wondered...
Transcribed - Published: 5 December 2025
These three retirement deadlines before December 31, 2025, could literally double your money overnight, unlock up to $70,000 of Roth contributions, and turn your accounts into a tax-free ATM for your future! In this episode of the Main Street Business Podcast, Mat Sorensen and Mark J. Kohler break down powerful, little-known 401(k) and Roth strategies that most employees and small business owners are completely missing. You’ll learn how to “match & out” your workplace 401(k) so you don’t...
Transcribed - Published: 28 November 2025
Are you missing out on one of the easiest 100 percent deductions available to business owners? In this episode of the Main Street Business Podcast, Mark J. Kohler and Mat Sorensen break down exactly how to structure a holiday party or company event so it becomes a fully deductible business expense. From the IRS rules under Section 274 to real examples of what qualifies, you’ll learn how to turn food, entertainment, awards, and even venue costs into a legitimate write-off. Unlike generic tax t...
Transcribed - Published: 21 November 2025
Are you missing out on some of the most powerful year-end tax strategies available to small business owners and entrepreneurs? In this episode of the Main Street Business Podcast, Mark J. Kohler and Mat Sorensen break down 20 actionable moves you can still make before December 31 to save thousands on taxes and set yourself up for long-term financial success. From retroactive S-corp elections to HSAs, Solo 401(k)s, and smart income timing, this episode is your complete year-end playbook. Unlik...
Transcribed - Published: 19 November 2025
conversation with bestselling author and negotiation expert Rebecca Zung and attorney Mark J. Kohler. We break down what to do first, what to avoid, and how to protect your future — without playing dirty. You’ll learn the five main areas courts consider in family law cases—property division, spousal support, custody and parenting decisions, child support, and attorney’s fees—and how each one affects the next. We cover business valuation timing, enterprise vs. personal goodwill, forensic accou...
Transcribed - Published: 14 November 2025
Recorded live at the Alt Asset Summit in Phoenix, this episode of the Main Street Business Podcast brings you a high-energy, audience-fueled breakdown of the Top 10 Due Diligence Must-Dos Before You Put Money Anywhere. Join hosts Mark J. Kohler and Mat Sorensen as they share stories from the trenches of asset protection, investing mistakes, client war stories, and lessons from 10,000+ hours advising entrepreneurs, investors, and small business owners. From understanding what you’re investing ...
Transcribed - Published: 6 November 2025
In this episode of the Main Street Business Podcast, Mark J. Kohler and Mat Sorensen break down why every small business owner should hold their annual Family Board Meeting before the end of the year. This powerful meeting isn’t just a formality — it’s a proven strategy to strengthen your business, protect your assets, and educate your family about wealth and responsibility. You’ll learn how to make your Family Board Meeting IRS-compliant, maximize write-offs, document your decisions pr...
Transcribed - Published: 24 October 2025
Are you structuring your business the right way — or making costly mistakes that could be draining your profits? In this episode of the Main Street Business Podcast, Mat Sorensen and Mark J. Kohler team up to answer your questions on taxes, legal structures, and real-world strategies for small business success. Together, they uncover the truth about LLCs, S-Corps, and the $50K rule that determines when to make the switch. From transferring real estate into an LLC safely to understanding what ...
Transcribed - Published: 17 October 2025
Take control of your retirement with our Solo 401(k) Special, starting at $895. The offer ends on October 17, 2025! Learn more: https://kkoslawyers.com/solo-401k-special-2025/?utm_source=buzzsprout&utm_medium=description-link&utm_content=596-solo-401k-p2-maintain&utm_campaign=main-street-business-podcast Are you taking full advantage of one of the best retirement strategies available to entrepreneurs and small business owners? In this episode of the Main Street Business Podcast, M...
Transcribed - Published: 10 October 2025
Take control of your retirement with a Solo 401(k): https://kkoslawyers.com/services/solo-401k-set-up/?utm_source=buzzsprout&utm_medium=description-link&utm_content=solo-401k-p1-benefits&utm_campaign=main-street-business-podcast Are you overlooking one of the most powerful retirement strategies available to entrepreneurs and small business owners? In this episode of the Main Street Business Podcast, Mark J. Kohler and Mat Sorensen take a deep dive into the Solo 401(k) — explaining...
Transcribed - Published: 6 October 2025
Mat sat down with Donald Miller to break down how the StoryBrand framework and airplane model can transform small business growth. In this episode of the Main Street Business Podcast, we dive into marketing, sales, and clarity in messaging so entrepreneurs can scale with confidence. Grab my eBook 30 Unique Strategies Every Business Owner Should Know! You don't want to miss this! Secure your tickets for the #1 Event For Small Business Owners On Main Street America: Main Street...
Transcribed - Published: 1 October 2025
Are you making money decisions that could be holding you back from real financial freedom? In this episode of the Main Street Business Podcast, Mark J. Kohler flies solo to answer your questions! In the process, he reveals the common mistakes people make with money, taxes, and investments — and how you can avoid them. He shares proven strategies to help you protect your wealth, build long-term security, and take control of your financial future. From managing taxes to creating passive income...
Transcribed - Published: 19 September 2025
Why risk your business and hard-earned money with the wrong setup when you could be protecting yourself and saving on taxes? In this episode of the Main Street Business Podcast, Mark J. Kohler and Mat Sorensen break down the critical steps every small business owner and new LLC owner must take to avoid costly mistakes. From choosing the right entity structure to understanding tax advantages, they reveal the insider strategies that keep more money in your pocket and safeguard your future. Dis...
Transcribed - Published: 5 September 2025
Your name and home address are everywhere — and that’s a problem! In this episode of the Main Street Business Podcast, Mark J. Kohler and Mat Sorensen break down practical, legal ways to keep your personal info off public records while still running your business and owning assets the right way. You’ll learn why manager-managed LLCs beat member-managed, how to use registered agents and privacy addresses, what PO boxes can and can’t do, and when a Wyoming holding LLC (or similar) adds a layer ...
Transcribed - Published: 22 August 2025
Why make someone else rich when you could be paying yourself? In this episode of the Main Street Business Podcast, Mark J. Kohler and Mat Sorensen reveal three powerful real estate strategies that allow business owners to become their own landlord, create cash flow, and protect family wealth. From renting your own building to your business, to buying your kid’s college home, to purchasing your parents’ house for asset protection and tax benefits, these proven methods could transform your fina...
Transcribed - Published: 15 August 2025
Join Mark and Mat as they discuss the powerful SALT workaround in 36 states. You can have unlimited deductions for state taxes for this workaround strategy and exceed the $40,000 with the workaround. You’ll learn: The 3 steps to see if you qualify for the SALT workaroundThe 3 steps to implement it before year-endHow to navigate state-specific deadlines and formsWhy acting in 2025 is critical for 2025 tax savingsGet a comprehensive tax consultation with one of our mains street tax lawyer...
Transcribed - Published: 8 August 2025
Mark Kohler and Mat Sorensen are back for another Open Forum episode of the Main Street Business Podcast — answering real tax, legal, and wealth-building questions from listeners across the country. In this episode, they cover advanced strategies and insider tips for: The Mega Backdoor Roth: How it works and who can use itMaximizing vehicle deductions and depreciation the smart wayFixing a broken S-Corp partnership structureLLCs vs. business trusts in CaliforniaSolo 401(k) contribution strate...
Transcribed - Published: 22 July 2025
President Trump just signed the Big Beautiful Bill into law — and it’s packed with tax breaks for small business owners, real estate investors, and everyday entrepreneurs. In this episode, tax attorney Mark J. Kohler and attorney Mat Sorensen break down the most useful strategies you can implement right now to save big. Here’s what you’ll learn: How to leverage 100% bonus depreciation for real estate, vehicles, and business equipmentWhy the QBI (199A) deduction is now a permanent win for sma...
Transcribed - Published: 15 July 2025
Mark J Kohler and Mat Sorensen dive deep into the world of LLC registration, revealing must-know strategies for small business owners and real estate investors. Learn how to: Properly register your business across state linesProtect your assets with the right LLC structureAvoid expensive penalties and legal pitfallsMaximize tax benefits for multi-state operationsWhether you're a rental property owner, remote business operator, or entrepreneur looking to expand, this episode is your ultimate g...
Transcribed - Published: 8 July 2025
To get a comprehensive tax and legal plan get to my law firm KKOS Lawyers: https://kkoslawyers.com In this special episode, Mat Sorensen breaks down President Trump’s newly signed tax legislation, known as the “Big Beautiful Bill," and what it means for your personal and business taxes. With sweeping changes taking effect in 2025, Mat outlines the most impactful provisions for individuals, small business owners, and real estate investors. 0:00 - Introduction to The Big Beautiful Bill 5:...
Transcribed - Published: 5 July 2025
In this insightful episode, Mat Sorensen sits down with Chris Loeffler, CEO of Caliber, to dissect the current state of the real estate market and why commercial real estate is presenting one of the best buying opportunities in over a decade. With over $2.9 billion in assets under management and development, Chris breaks down the macroeconomic and local market conditions creating value in distressed assets—especially in hotels, industrial, and multifamily sectors. They explore how real estate...
Transcribed - Published: 3 July 2025
Mark J. Kohler and Mat Sorensen reveal game-changing strategies for transforming your retirement accounts from Wall Street limitations to Main Street opportunities. Discover how to legally invest your IRA or 401(k) in high-potential assets beyond traditional stocks and mutual funds. Maximize Tax-Free Wealth: Learn Roth IRA investment strategies that minimize taxesExplore Alternative Investments: Real estate, crypto, private businesses, and moreGain Checkbook Control: Understand IRA LLC struct...
Transcribed - Published: 1 July 2025
Gene Simmons joins us for an unforgettable masterclass on business, life philosophy, and how KISS built a billion-dollar brand through strategic thinking and trademark protection. • The precious nature of time and why "you will never get this day back" • Why the "get rich slow scheme" is more reliable than get-rich-quick fantasies • How KISS became the only band whose faces are trademarked like Disney characters • The recent billion-dollar sale of KISS to Pop House company • Coming from humb...
Transcribed - Published: 24 June 2025
Breaking News - Senate Tax Bill Text Released. With both the House and Senate versions now on the table, which proposal offers bigger tax cuts? Which one could save you more money? I’m breaking down the differences between the House and Senate proposals and what’s changing and how it will affect you. Intro & Why This Tax Bill Matters 00:00 - 00:02:25 Expiring Tax Provisions in 2026 00:02:25 - 00:03:32 Standard Deduction & Income Tax Rates 00:03:32 - 00:09:07 Child Tax Credit Breakdown...
Transcribed - Published: 20 June 2025
In this episode of the Main Street Business Podcast, Mark J. Kohler and Mat Sorensen walk you through the full business lifecycle—showing you how to start lean, systemize operations, scale smart, and exit on your terms. Get ready for real-world strategies that actually work. Here are some of the highlights: Mark shares his experience in the startup phase, emphasizing the importance of not suffocating the business. Mat highlights how scaling a business involves scaling people, not just syst...
Transcribed - Published: 17 June 2025
In this episode of the Main Street Business Podcast, Mark J. Kohler and Mat Sorensen take on your toughest tax and business questions in an open forum style. From setting up the right business structure to handling a home office deduction the smart way, they give you the tips you wish your accountant and attorney actually explained. It’s smart, fast-paced advice that real Main Street entrepreneurs can put into action. Here are some of the highlights: Mark and Mat discuss the benefits and dr...
Transcribed - Published: 3 June 2025
In this episode of the Main Street Business Podcast, Mark J. Kohler and Mat Sorensen explain why every adult—single or married, wealthy or not—needs a will and a revocable living trust. Learn the practical steps for setting up your estate plan, naming a trustee, and ensuring your assets stay protected and your wishes are followed. Here are some of the highlights: Mark emphasizes the importance of having a will, noting that 50% of Americans do not have one.Mat explains that a trust allows for ...
Transcribed - Published: 27 May 2025
In this episode of the Main Street Business Podcast, Mark J. Kohler and Mat Sorensen take a deep dive into the six LLC structures every entrepreneur, investor, and licensed professional should understand. Whether you're starting a business, protecting rental properties, or building wealth with a high-net-worth strategy, this episode breaks down how to choose and use the right LLC to match your goals. Here are some of the highlights: Mark and Mat discuss the six types of LLCs, starting with th...
Transcribed - Published: 13 May 2025
In this episode of the Main Street Business Podcast, Mark J. Kohler shows how simple board meetings and a strategic plan can supercharge your finances. He explains how to turn ordinary family gatherings into legitimate, tax-deductible business meetings that strengthen your entity structure. Get inspired to organize your goals, sharpen your decision-making, and create a family office that supports real wealth-building. Here are some of the highlights: Mark explains the concept of a family offi...
Transcribed - Published: 6 May 2025
In this episode of the Main Street Business Podcast, Mark J. Kohler and Max Merritt reveal how NIL athletes can turn short-term earnings into long-term wealth. From forming an LLC to electing S corp status and leveraging mega Roth strategies, they lay out the playbook every young athlete—and their advisors—should follow. Here are some of the highlights: Mark emphasizes the similarities between athletes and entrepreneurs, highlighting the self-discipline required in both fields.Max notes that ...
Transcribed - Published: 1 May 2025
In this video, I break down 3 strategies to help you navigate a market downturn: 1) The market always comes back – History shows us time and time again that corrections are normal and the market recovers. The key is staying invested. 2) Tax loss harvesting – This is a powerful tool to offset gains and reduce your tax bill. I’ll show you how to do it the right way. 3) Over-allocated in stocks? It might be time to diversify. If you're too heavy in the market, consider investing in alternative a...
Transcribed - Published: 22 April 2025
In this episode of the Main Street Business Podcast, Mark J. Kohler welcomes Chris Van Dusen to unpack the biggest mistakes business owners make when trying to sell—and how to avoid them. From cleaning up your books to understanding your true enterprise value, this is your roadmap to a smarter exit. Here are some of the highlights: Mark and Chris explain the concept of enterprise value, differentiating it from lifestyle businesses.Chris emphasizes the importance of understanding the market an...
Transcribed - Published: 15 April 2025
In this episode of the Mainstreet Business podcast, host Mat Sorensen kicks off the LLC Masterclass series with the questions every entrepreneur, investor, and side hustler needs answered: Do you actually need an LLC? How do you set one up the right way? What about paying yourself? How many LLCs should you have? And which state should you form it in? With over 20 years of experience and 10,000+ LLCs formed for clients across all 50 states, Mat breaks down the fou...
Transcribed - Published: 10 April 2025
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