In today's quick episode, I'm sharing that Keep What You Earn will be taking a short holiday break — and I have some exciting updates for 2026. We're adding more listener interaction, including live call-ins and personalized financial advice. As I look back on the past four years, I'm incredibly grateful for your support and remain committed to giving you practical, actionable strategies to grow your business. I can't wait to connect with you even more in the new year!

Learn more about our CFO firm and services: https://www.keepwhatyouearn.com/

Connect with Shannon: https://www.linkedin.com/in/shannonweinstein

Watch full episodes: https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCMlIuZsrllp1Uc_MlhriLvQ

Follow along on IG: https://www.instagram.com/shannonkweinstein/

The information contained in this podcast is intended for educational purposes only and is not individual tax advice. We love enthusiastic action, but please consult a qualified professional before implementing anything you learn.

Today, I'm joined by Gina Cotner, founder and CEO of Athena Executive Services. Gina shares her journey from executive assistant to building one of the top virtual assistant firms in the country. We talk about how to create real accountability on your team, delegate effectively, and build a business that doesn't depend on you doing everything yourself. Gina gives practical, no-fluff advice on managing both remote and in-office teams while keeping productivity and trust high. If you're ready to lead better and free yourself from burnout, this episode is a must-listen.

What you'll hear in this episode:

[02:25] Gina's Journey: From Executive Assistant to CEO

[03:00] The Importance of Delegation in Business Growth

[06:55] Overcoming Barriers to Effective Delegation

[19:45] The Role of Accountability in Team Management

[27:50] Setting Expectations and Accountability

[30:05] Leveraging Resources to Meet Deadlines

[33:15] Building a Culture of Accountability

[37:15] Effective Communication and Trust

[40:20] Hiring and Vetting for Cultural Fit

[49:30] Remote Management Best Practices

If you like this episode, check out:

Think Bigger Than a Niche

Your Most Expensive Habit

Why Enterprise Value is the Goal

LinkedIn: Gina Cotner

Website: https://www.athenaexecutiveservices.com

Prospective clients are encouraged to schedule a conversation with Jennifer Tracy from Athena Executive Services to explore what kind of VA support best fits their business

Learn more about our CFO firm and services: https://www.keepwhatyouearn.com/

Connect with Shannon: https://www.linkedin.com/in/shannonweinstein

Watch full episodes: https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCMlIuZsrllp1Uc_MlhriLvQ

Follow along on IG: https://www.instagram.com/shannonkweinstein/

The information contained in this podcast is intended for educational purposes only and is not individual tax advice. We love enthusiastic action, but please consult a qualified professional before implementing anything you learn.

In this episode, I'm breaking down the fears and myths around IRS audits. I compare getting audited to getting pulled over—it feels intimidating, but it's usually not as bad as you think. I'll walk you through what really happens during an audit, how to prepare, and why good bookkeeping is your best defense. I'm also setting the record straight on that rumor about the IRS hiring 80,000 new agents. By the end, you'll feel more confident and a lot less anxious about the idea of an audit.

What you'll hear in this episode:

[00:45] The Fear of IRS Audits

[02:00] Understanding the Audit Process

[09:35] The Role of IRS Agents

[11:00] Debunking Myths About IRS Agents

If you like this episode, check out:

Essential W-9 Practices for Compliance

Why The Rich Pay No Taxes and You Feel Left Out

Don't Speed If You Can't Afford a Ticket

Learn more about our CFO firm and services: https://www.keepwhatyouearn.com/

Connect with Shannon: https://www.linkedin.com/in/shannonweinstein

Watch full episodes: https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCMlIuZsrllp1Uc_MlhriLvQ

Follow along on IG: https://www.instagram.com/shannonkweinstein/

The information contained in this podcast is intended for educational purposes only and is not individual tax advice. We love enthusiastic action, but please consult a qualified professional before implementing anything you learn.