Jeremy Ames, CEO of Guidant Financial, shares insights on helping midlife entrepreneurs leverage retirement funds to invest in businesses. The discussion covers the evolution of Guidant Financial, the intricacies of self-directed IRAs, and the challenges faced by business owners. Jeremy emphasizes the importance of understanding financial options and the unique needs of clients looking to transition into entrepreneurship later in life. The discussion also highlights innovative business ideas the necessity of embracing uncertainty in the entrepreneurial journey.

Key Takeaways:

- Jeremy has helped over 30,000 entrepreneurs start businesses

• Self-directed IRAs can be used to invest in businesses
• Many clients are unaware of the potential of their retirement funds
• The business model evolved from real estate to supporting business investments
• Clients often have significant life experience and financial obligations
• The success rate of clients is higher than average due to their backgrounds
• Understanding the legalities of business investments is crucial
• Clients often combine retirement funds with other financing options
• The emotional and financial challenges of transitioning to business ownership are significant
• Many individuals feel unfulfilled in their current jobs but hesitate to take risks on new ventures
• Clients come with varying levels of readiness and understanding about business investments
• The gender disparity in entrepreneurship is notable, with more male entrepreneurs than female entrepreneurs
• Having greater cash reserves often correlates with business success
• Testing business ideas on a small scale can lead to significant opportunities
• Delegation is essential for business growth and efficiency
• Entrepreneurs must embrace uncertainty and be adaptable in their journey

Kirsten Flory is the President & CEO of Foundations Commercial Real Estate and host of The Small Business Mindset.

www.kirstenflory.com