Designed for those who crave the inside scoop on everything from people to policy to profits, each THRIVE episode transforms complex business and HR topics into clear, actionable advice. Whether you’re an entrepreneur, a seasoned business owner, or an aspiring leader, this podcast is your go-to source for cutting through the noise and gaining a competitive advantage.
Episodes
23 hours ago
23 hours ago
32 min
What if the best thing you did with AI this week wasn’t a big strategy overhaul, just one small experiment? Dan Chuparkoff spent three decades building software, from the early PC era through a stint at Google, before going all in on AI. Now he travels the country helping business leaders make sense of the hype. In this episode, Dan joins Gene Marks to explain why trying AI beats fearing it, why it’s about doing more rather than working faster, and how your AI assistant can double as your new coach.
Want to start experimenting like Dan suggests? Grab our free AI & Automation Toolkit to find your biggest automation opportunity: https://bit.ly/4yaSarA
Simplify your business operations. Learn how Paychex can handle your HR and payroll so you can focus on what counts: https://bit.ly/3VtM6bs
Have a topic idea? Share it at https://payx.me/thrivetopics
Topics include:
00:00 – Episode preview and guest introduction
01:31 – Dan’s work as a speaker & career path
04:54 – AI, change, and public perception
09:00 – What “using AI” actually means
11:08 – Connecting AI to your data
17:10 – Small businesses building their own AI
21:10 – High-ROI use case: Capturing conversations
24:42 – “Our Data Is a Mess” – Does it matter?
28:18 – AI as a coach
30:36 – Wrap up and thank you
#BusinessPodcast #Entrepreneurship #SmallBusiness #iHeartRadio #ApplePodcastTips
#SpotifyPodcasts
DISCLAIMER:
The information presented in this podcast, and that is further provided by the presenter, should not be considered legal or accounting advice, and should not substitute for legal, accounting, or other professional advice in which the facts and circumstances may warrant. We encourage you to consult legal counsel as it pertains to your own unique situation(s) and/or with any specific legal questions you may have.
6 days ago
6 days ago
11 min
Multiple sources show job growth trending upward, including the Paychex Small Business Employment Watch that showed a fourth consecutive month of improvement. This bodes well for businesses that had been feeling pressured by the labor market, says host Gene Marks. He also discusses the trend of Millennials snapping up skilled-trades businesses, and for many good reasons, including recurring cash flow and currently resistant to AI disruption. In AI news, Microsoft put $2.5 billion into a firm that helps with AI deployment and training on many AI models, some not even their own. Listen to the podcast.
Topics:
00:00 – Introduction
00:20 – Paychex Small Business Employment Watch
03:37 – Blue-Collar Business Acquisitions
06:57 – Microsoft Invests in Helping AI Deployment
09:48 – Episode Wrap-up
Additional Resources
Paychex Small Business Employment Watch: https://bit.ly/paychex-sbew
Meet Paychex: https://bit.ly/3VtM6bs
DISCLAIMER:
The information presented in this podcast, and that is further provided by the presenter, should not be considered legal or accounting advice, and should not substitute for legal, accounting, or other professional advice in which the facts and circumstances may warrant. We encourage you to consult legal counsel as it pertains to your own unique situation(s) and/or with any specific legal questions you may have.
Jul 2, 2026
Jul 2, 2026
10 min
Americans seem undeterred by inflation hovering at 3.4%, as the personal consumption expenditures index rose 0.7% in May and is up 4.1% year over year. This could trigger raising interest rates, although host Gene Marks says a rate increase would be manageable. Gene also looks at Walmart Business uncovering the hidden costs of procurement, and what 60% of people dealing with AI-powered customer service bots say they do when faced with that situation. Listen to the podcast.
Topics:
00:00 – Introduction
00:19 – Consumer Spending and Inflation
04:15 – Hidden Costs of Procurement
06:07 – Response to AI Customer Service
08:56 – Episode Wrap-up
Additional Resources
Meet Paychex: https://bit.ly/3VtM6bs
DISCLAIMER:
The information presented in this podcast, and that is further provided by the presenter, should not be considered legal or accounting advice, and should not substitute for legal, accounting, or other professional advice in which the facts and circumstances may warrant. We encourage you to consult legal counsel as it pertains to your own unique situation(s) and/or with any specific legal questions you may have.
Jun 30, 2026
Jun 30, 2026
37 min
At 24, Nate Berkus launched an interior design firm with no business plan and a whole lot of nerve. Thirty years later? Offices in three cities, 50 employees, and a spot among the most recognizable names in design. The celebrity designer joins host Gene Marks on Paychex THRIVE to get real about hiring, handling difficult clients, and why admitting what you're bad at is where real business growth starts. Plus, the advice from his father that changed everything.
Simplify your business operations. Learn how Paychex can handle your HR and payroll so you can focus on what counts: https://bit.ly/3VtM6bs
Have a topic idea? Share it at https://payx.me/thrivetopics
Topics include:
00:00 – Episode preview and guest introduction
01:21 – Nate’s path into design
05:27 – Running a 50-person firm across three cities
09:42 – Which projects Nate still gets personally involved in
11:57 – Why his firm still grounds him after fame
16:10 – Dealing with difficult clients and when to say no
19:33 – Handling problems: accountability and ownership
23:05 – Nate’s hiring wake-up call
25:01 – How Nate keeps great employees
28:10 – Starting a business at 24
32:41 – Walking through doors & staying in the room
36:27 – Wrap up and thank you
#BusinessPodcast #Entrepreneurship #SmallBusiness #iHeartRadio #ApplePodcastTips
#SpotifyPodcasts
DISCLAIMER:
The information presented in this podcast, and that is further provided by the presenter, should not be considered legal or accounting advice, and should not substitute for legal, accounting, or other professional advice in which the facts and circumstances may warrant. We encourage you to consult legal counsel as it pertains to your own unique situation(s) and/or with any specific legal questions you may have.
Jun 25, 2026
Jun 25, 2026
9 min
Entrepreneurs continue to make a go of it despite current economic uncertainty, with business applications increasing 3.7% in May. Host Gene Marks says with access to new markets and inexpensive technology, there’s never been a better time to own a business. The news isn’t all rosy, as rising healthcare costs point to a potential trickle down to employees in 2027, but Gene shares a few strategies to offset. In AI news, a partnership with Perplexity is creating opportunities for some SBA loan recipients to get credit to afford resources to help with AI training.
Topics:
00:00 – Introduction
01:03 – Rise in Business Applications
03:36 – Shifting Healthcare Costs
06:20 – AI Credits Through SBA partnership
08:21 – Episode Wrap-up
Additional Resources
Register for AI webinar: https://bit.ly/ai-webinar-series
Meet Paychex: https://bit.ly/3VtM6bs
DISCLAIMER:
The information presented in this podcast, and that is further provided by the presenter, should not be considered legal or accounting advice, and should not substitute for legal, accounting, or other professional advice in which the facts and circumstances may warrant. We encourage you to consult legal counsel as it pertains to your own unique situation(s) and/or with any specific legal questions you may have.
Jun 18, 2026
Jun 18, 2026
10 min
Businesses that got in on the front end of requesting refunds for illegal tariffs are better off than those applying now. Why? As host Gene Marks explains, the federal government filed an appeal that could make it more difficult. Additionally, certain contractors, including women- and veteran-owned ones, are finding opportunities to land government contracts reduced, according to a report that shows a reduction of $47 billion in investment. In AI news, a survey indicates that despite a savings in time created by using AI at work, employers need to audit the ROI. Listen to the podcast to learn more.
Topics:
00:00 – Introduction
01:05 – Tariff Refund Decision Appealed
04:00 – Funding Cuts Hurt Some Contractors
06:33 – Consider Auditing the ROI of Your AI
09:24 – Episode Wrap-up
Additional Resources
Register for AI webinar: https://bit.ly/ai-webinar-series
Meet Paychex: https://bit.ly/3VtM6bs
DISCLAIMER:
The information presented in this podcast, and that is further provided by the presenter, should not be considered legal or accounting advice, and should not substitute for legal, accounting, or other professional advice in which the facts and circumstances may warrant. We encourage you to consult legal counsel as it pertains to your own unique situation(s) and/or with any specific legal questions you may have.
Jun 16, 2026
Jun 16, 2026
27 min
Every town has its big moment. A global tournament, a hometown festival, a parade that fills the streets. The question is whether your business is ready to grab it. Meg Kane, the host city executive behind Philadelphia's World Cup effort, joins Gene Marks with a practical playbook any business can run, anywhere. She shares how to lean into the energy, connect with the crowd, and land on vendor lists that organizers call again and again. The spotlight is coming to your town eventually. Here's how to make the most of it when it does.
Take the conversation further with The 39-Day World Cup Playbook. Your guide to staffing smart, managing overtime, and protecting your margins from kickoff to the final whistle: https://bit.ly/48Dpah4
Simplify your business operations. Learn how Paychex can handle your HR and payroll so you can focus on what counts: https://bit.ly/3VtM6bs
Have a topic idea? Share it at https://payx.me/thrivetopics
Topics include:
00:00 – Episode preview and guest introduction
01:12 – Meg’s background: Philly, PR & the road to World Cup 2026
04:30 – What a host city executive does
06:38 – Public–private partnership behind the tournament
08:16 – What makes Philadelphia unique as a host city
11:06 – How small businesses can leverage big events
13:21 – Supporting your national team as a marketing asset
17:31 – Connecting directly with fans & federations
20:36 – Real-world examples: Vendors doing it right
23:11 – Using any major event calendar as a growth strategy
27:06 – Wrap up and thank you
#BusinessPodcast #Entrepreneurship #SmallBusiness #iHeartRadio #ApplePodcastTips
#SpotifyPodcasts
DISCLAIMER:
The information presented in this podcast, and that is further provided by the presenter, should not be considered legal or accounting advice, and should not substitute for legal, accounting, or other professional advice in which the facts and circumstances may warrant. We encourage you to consult legal counsel as it pertains to your own unique situation(s) and/or with any specific legal questions you may have.
Jun 11, 2026
Jun 11, 2026
10 min
How’s the labor market? Depends on who you ask. Host Gene Marks highlights that in this week’s episode, pointing to the steady increase in job growth the past three months reported by the Paychex Small Business Employment Watch and the massive job gains released by the U.S. Department of Labor. Same? Gene says Paychex uses real-time data and the government’s report will be revised because it is based on surveys. The episode also looks at the divide concerning jobs, according to the JOLTS report, and why some experts are suggesting businesses pay attention to state AI laws while the federal government tries to find its way on the subject. Listen to the podcast.
Topics:
00:00 – Introduction
01:14 – Jobs and Wage Data From Paychex
02:55 – JOLTS Report Shows Hiring Divide
05:55 – Focus on State AI Laws
09:11 – Episode Wrap-up
Additional Resources
Employment Watch: https://bit.ly/paychex-sbew
Register for AI webinar: https://bit.ly/ai-webinar-series
Meet Paychex: https://bit.ly/3VtM6bs
Jun 4, 2026
Jun 4, 2026
8 min
The construction sector takes the least of a hit on the National Federation of Independent Businesses’ Optimism Index, while retail suffers worst decline. Add that to a Glassdoor survey reporting that employee confidence is at record lows and burnout is on the rise, and it’s no wonder that owners rate the financial health of their small businesses at good to excellent. Wait, what? Host Gene Marks explains why this might be happening. There also are new AI laws in a handful of states creating additional compliance complexities, especially around AI-driven employment decisions and discrimination risks. Listen to the podcast.
Topics:
00:00 – Introduction
00:19 – Optimism Declines Again
02:00 – Employee Confidence and Burnout
04:57 – State Step Up with AI Laws
06:43 – Episode Wrap-up
Additional Resources
Meet Paychex: https://bit.ly/3VtM6bs
Register for AI webinar: https://bit.ly/ai-webinar-series
DISCLAIMER:
The information presented in this podcast, and that is further provided by the presenter, should not be considered legal or accounting advice, and should not substitute for legal, accounting, or other professional advice in which the facts and circumstances may warrant. We encourage you to consult legal counsel as it pertains to your own unique situation(s) and/or with any specific legal questions you may have.
Jun 2, 2026
Jun 2, 2026
27 min
Jesse Cole built the Savannah Bananas into a 35-million-follower brand without spending a single dollar on marketing. His secret? Stop marketing. Start creating experiences people can't stop talking about. In this episode, the founder of Fans First Entertainment joins host Gene Marks to share the business philosophy behind one of the most unconventional success stories in sports. From how he hires to how he thinks about growth, Jesse's approach to business is as unorthodox as his team’s on-field antics.
Simplify your business operations. Learn how Paychex can handle your HR and payroll so you can focus on what counts: https://bit.ly/3VtM6bs
Have a topic idea? Share it at https://payx.me/thrivetopics
Topics include:
00:00 – Episode preview and guest introduction
01:13 – The mind behind the Savannah Bananas
05:13 – Why Jesse doesn't believe in work-life balance
06:44 – Working with your spouse
08:52 – The secret to a 15,000-person hiring waitlist
14:26 – Who inspires Jesse
17:05 – The importance of controlling the experience
20:35 – How the Savannah Bananas spend $0 on marketing
24:05 – Building something that outlasts you
26:21 – Wrap up and thank you
#BusinessPodcast #Entrepreneurship #SmallBusiness #iHeartRadio #ApplePodcastTips
#SpotifyPodcasts
DISCLAIMER:
The information presented in this podcast, and that is further provided by the presenter, should not be considered legal or accounting advice, and should not substitute for legal, accounting, or other professional advice in which the facts and circumstances may warrant. We encourage you to consult legal counsel as it pertains to your own unique situation(s) and/or with any specific legal questions you may have.
May 28, 2026
May 28, 2026
9 min
Small businesses always have challenges, but these days none is more damaging than the costs of doing business jacked up by inflation. Gene Marks, a small business owner himself, shares a few tips on how to manage the situation against the year-over-year profitability plunge of 1.3%. Financial pressures are hitting many, and a report found that 90% of employees would leave and seek out a company offering financial wellness resources as part of a benefits package. On a good note, some startups are using AI to solve practical business problems in the B2B space and drive growth.
Topics:
00:00 – Introduction
00:19 – Profitability Issues
03:34 – Financial Wellness Benefits
06:26 – Startups, AI, and Growth
08:25 – Episode Wrap-up
Additional Resources
Meet Paychex: https://bit.ly/3VtM6bs
Small business and AI: https://bit.ly/ai-and-small-biz
Register for AI webinar: https://bit.ly/ai-webinar-series
DISCLAIMER:
The information presented in this podcast, and that is further provided by the presenter, should not be considered legal or accounting advice, and should not substitute for legal, accounting, or other professional advice in which the facts and circumstances may warrant. We encourage you to consult legal counsel as it pertains to your own unique situation(s) and/or with any specific legal questions you may have.
May 21, 2026
May 21, 2026
10 min
A sharp spike up to 6% for the Producer Price Index has podcast host Gene Marks expressing concern over the pending price hikes for goods for the remainder of 2026. He offers some suggestions to help employers and their employees. As the World Cup soccer tournament nears its start in North America, one U.S. host city’s restaurant group is proposing a mandatory tip percentage so staff don’t get stiffed by visitors from non-tipping cultures. And Anthropic launches Claude for Small Business, which Gene notes is a great way to help implement AI. Listen to the podcast.
Topics:
00:00 – Introduction
00:51 – Producer Price Index Spikes
03:50 – Tipping Proposal for World Cup Events
06:48 – AI Training by Claude for Small Business
09:24 – Episode Wrap-up
Additional Resources
Meet Paychex: https://bit.ly/3VtM6bs
DISCLAIMER:
The information presented in this podcast, and that is further provided by the presenter, should not be considered legal or accounting advice, and should not substitute for legal, accounting, or other professional advice in which the facts and circumstances may warrant. We encourage you to consult legal counsel as it pertains to your own unique situation(s) and/or with any specific legal questions you may have.
May 19, 2026
May 19, 2026
29 min
Big events bring big opportunities, but the businesses that win are the ones who prepare. Host Gene Marks sits down with Connie Kinnard of the Greater Miami Convention and Visitors Bureau to talk World Cup prep, small business strategy, and what it takes to turn a surge in visitors into lasting revenue. From optimizing your online presence to building the right relationships, the tips she shares here apply to any major event, anywhere.
Take the conversation further with The 39-Day World Cup Playbook. It's your guide to staffing smart, managing overtime, and protecting your margins from kickoff to the final whistle: https://bit.ly/48Dpah4
Simplify your business operations. Learn how Paychex can handle your HR and payroll so you can focus on what counts: https://bit.ly/3VtM6bs
Have a topic idea? Share it at https://payx.me/thrivetopics
Topics include:
00:00 – Episode preview and guest introduction
01:21 – Connie’s career path: From Nashville to Miami
04:08 – What a convention and visitors bureau does
06:47 – Training managers to support employers
08:16 – Preparing for the World Cup and other big events
12:01 – Online presence, search, and AI: How visitors find you
14:27 – Safety and security considerations for big events
16:08 – Tailoring marketing to international visitors
19:38 – How the World Cup differs from other major events
24:47 – Last-minute World Cup advice for local businesses
28:06 – Wrap up and thank you
#BusinessPodcast #Entrepreneurship #SmallBusiness #iHeartRadio #ApplePodcastTips
#SpotifyPodcasts
DISCLAIMER:
The information presented in this podcast, and that is further provided by the presenter, should not be considered legal or accounting advice, and should not substitute for legal, accounting, or other professional advice in which the facts and circumstances may warrant. We encourage you to consult legal counsel as it pertains to your own unique situation(s) and/or with any specific legal questions you may have.
May 14, 2026
May 14, 2026
10 min
Businesses that paid illegal tariffs under the Emergency Economic Powers Act could get a windfall if they follow the process to request a refund. Host Gene Marks shares some tips to facilitate getting your money back. He also says the latest Paychex Small Business Employment Watch reveals that employers are being cautious about hiring but aren’t cutting back on the practice amid economic uncertainty. Optimism abounds in the agentic AI commerce arena, where experts forecast that it could drive more than one trillion dollars in U.S. retail in the next four years.
Topics:
00:00 – Introduction
01:00 – Tariff Refunds
04:13 – Small Business Employment Watch
05:46 – Agentic AI Commerce Forecast
09:29 – Episode Wrap-up
Additional Resources
Meet Paychex: https://bit.ly/3VtM6bs
Paychex Small Business Employment Watch: https://bit.ly/paychex-sbew
DISCLAIMER:
The information presented in this podcast, and that is further provided by the presenter, should not be considered legal or accounting advice, and should not substitute for legal, accounting, or other professional advice in which the facts and circumstances may warrant. We encourage you to consult legal counsel as it pertains to your own unique situation(s) and/or with any specific legal questions you may have.
May 7, 2026
May 7, 2026
11 min
A new Executive Order from the White House aims to expand participation in retirement savings for lower-income workers, which brings supporters and critics. It also looks to connect these IRAs to the Saver’s Match for eligible recipients. Gene Marks highlights this in this episode of the Week in Review, along with a possible new course for the Federal Reserve to map out rate hikes that could impact funding options. Plus, national outlets such as the U.S. Chamber of Commerce are sponsoring free AI training sessions to small businesses. Listen to the podcast.
Topics:
00:00 – Introduction
01:00 – Executive Order on retirement accounts
04:38 – Federal Reserve maps out rate changes
07:59 – Free AI training being offered
10:15 – Episode Wrap-up
Additional Resources
Meet Paychex: https://bit.ly/3VtM6bs
Free AI training: https://bit.ly/ai-training-for-free
DISCLAIMER:
The information presented in this podcast, and that is further provided by the presenter, should not be considered legal or accounting advice, and should not substitute for legal, accounting, or other professional advice in which the facts and circumstances may warrant. We encourage you to consult legal counsel as it pertains to your own unique situation(s) and/or with any specific legal questions you may have.
May 5, 2026
May 5, 2026
32 min
Is your team truly showing up or just going through the motions? Suzi Craig, VP of Workplace Mental Health at Mental Health America, joins host Gene Marks to uncover what small business leaders can improve when it comes to supporting their teams. From building a culture of trust and psychological safety to spotting struggling employees before they walk out the door, Suzi delivers actionable advice every business owner needs. Plus, hear why AI anxiety is the new workplace mental health crisis.
Learn more about Mental Health America's resources and programs at mhanational.org
Turn today’s insights into action. Here’s your step-by-step guide to building an employee wellness and mental health program: https://bit.ly/48Dpah4
Simplify your business operations. Learn how Paychex can handle your HR and payroll so you can focus on what counts: https://bit.ly/3VtM6bs
Have a topic idea? Share it at https://payx.me/thrivetopics
Topics include:
00:00 – Episode preview and guest introduction
01:26 – Mental Health America overview
03:20 – Building a culture of trust
07:08 – Training managers to support employers
11:32 – Psychological safety: definition and origin
13:50 – Generational differences in workplace mental health
16:42 – Stop guessing: using employment input and data
19:15 – Hidden struggles of employees
21:10 – Having a plan around leave
23:34 – AI and technology anxiety
27:05 – Individual mental health strategies
31:18 – Wrap up and thank you
#BusinessPodcast #Entrepreneurship #SmallBusiness #iHeartRadio #ApplePodcastTips
#SpotifyPodcasts
DISCLAIMER:
The information presented in this podcast, and that is further provided by the presenter, should not be considered legal or accounting advice, and should not substitute for legal, accounting, or other professional advice in which the facts and circumstances may warrant. We encourage you to consult legal counsel as it pertains to your own unique situation(s) and/or with any specific legal questions you may have.
Apr 30, 2026
Apr 30, 2026
11 min
The pro-business aura of the current administration shouldn’t lull owners into a sense of invincibility, says Gene Marks, as he cites a major ruling by the Department of Labor against a restaurant in Oregon. Fines at the federal and state level can be financially devastating, plus misclassifying workers is a black eye on one’s reputation. The immigration crackdown hasn’t shorted the labor market nor has it produced wage gains. In AI news, Gene points to the AI tools being used by Yelp to increase bookings and Google Maps, urging businesses to lean into AI for insights for B2C businesses. Listen to the podcast.
Topics:
00:00 – Introduction
01:04 – Worker Classification Scrutiny
04:17 – Impacts of Immigration Crackdown
07:16 – Yelp’s Use of AI Tools for Bookings
10:25 – Episode Wrap-up
Additional Resources
Meet Paychex: https://bit.ly/3VtM6bs
Worker classification: https://bit.ly/exempt-vs-nonexempt
Small business and AI: https://bit.ly/ai-and-small-biz
DISCLAIMER:
The information presented in this podcast, and that is further provided by the presenter, should not be considered legal or accounting advice, and should not substitute for legal, accounting, or other professional advice in which the facts and circumstances may warrant. We encourage you to consult legal counsel as it pertains to your own unique situation(s) and/or with any specific legal questions you may have.
Apr 23, 2026
Apr 23, 2026
9 min
With banks making money and reporting solid consumer spending and stable credit while several manufacturing reports indicate renewed momentum in the industry, there is a positive glow on the U.S. economy. However, host Gene Marks says that as much as this news is good, there is a growing voice around risk associated with energy prices, inflation, and credit balances, not to mention tariffs and unpredictable policy shifts that could bring it all to a halt. In AI news, Google touts its AI ad tools as a way for its customers to improve sales and help campaigns but others are wary. Listen to the podcast.
Topics:
00:00 – Introduction
00:18 – Bank Earnings and Economy
02:34 – Manufacturing Optimism
06:07 – Google Says AI Ad Tools Boost Sales
08:22 – Episode Wrap-up
Additional Resources
Meet Paychex: https://bit.ly/3VtM6bs
DISCLAIMER:
The information presented in this podcast, and that is further provided by the presenter, should not be considered legal or accounting advice, and should not substitute for legal, accounting, or other professional advice in which the facts and circumstances may warrant. We encourage you to consult legal counsel as it pertains to your own unique situation(s) and/or with any specific legal questions you may have.
Apr 16, 2026
Apr 16, 2026
9 min
Artificial intelligence is working for and against Gen Z, hindering their first job searches while also enabling them to manage workloads as they engage in polywork. Gene Marks looks at the latest trend of the new generation of workers, as well as what this eventually could mean for the labor market. In other news, cybercrime is costly – nearly $22 billion in losses in 2025, according to an FBI report. Gene suggests training and other precautionary steps for businesses. Plus, a Microsoft mea culpa. Its Copilot AI terms of service state it is not reliable and should not be used for important decisions, but the tech giant claimed those were out of date. Do your due diligence. Listen to the podcast.
Topics:
00:00 – Introduction
00:18 – Gen Z, AI, and Polywork
02:28 – Cyber Crime Financial Costs
05:55 – Microsoft’s Copilot “mistake”
08:35 – Episode Wrap-up
Additional Resources
Meet Paychex: https://bit.ly/3VtM6bs
Cybersecurity Plan: https://bit.ly/cybersecurity-plan
DISCLAIMER:
The information presented in this podcast, and that is further provided by the presenter, should not be considered legal or accounting advice, and should not substitute for legal, accounting, or other professional advice in which the facts and circumstances may warrant. We encourage you to consult legal counsel as it pertains to your own unique situation(s) and/or with any specific legal questions you may have.
Apr 14, 2026
Apr 14, 2026
23 min
Think org charts are just boxes and lines? Think again. Gene Marks sits down with OrgChart CEO Tom McCarty to explore how a living, data-connected org chart can transform workforce planning, boost company valuation, support AI-readiness, and give employees a clear path forward. From 30-person shops to enterprise teams, this conversation will make you rethink how you manage your most valuable asset.
Check out OrgChart and more trusted partners in the Paychex Marketplace: https://bit.ly/41uO9zk
Simplify your business operations. Learn how Paychex can handle your HR and payroll so you can focus on what counts: https://bit.ly/3VtM6bs
Have a topic idea? Share it at https://payx.me/thrivetopics
Topics include:
00:00 – Episode preview and guest introduction
01:18 – Why org charts matter beyond spreadsheets
03:48 – Org charts as career paths and transparency tools
05:16 – Succession planning, exits, and M&A
07:08 – Org charts as the foundation for HR
10:01 – What OrgChart does
14:07 – Why not just use ChatGPT for org charts?
17:30 – Using your org chart for strategic decisions
21:24 – OrgChart pricing, wrap up, and thank you
#BusinessPodcast #Entrepreneurship #SmallBusiness #iHeartSummit #ApplePodcasts
#SpotifyPodcasts
DISCLAIMER:
The information presented in this podcast, and that is further provided by the presenter, should not be considered legal or accounting advice, and should not substitute for legal, accounting, or other professional advice in which the facts and circumstances may warrant. We encourage you to consult legal counsel as it pertains to your own unique situation(s) and/or with any specific legal questions you may have.
Apr 9, 2026
Apr 9, 2026
9 min
Job growth and wage growth have cooled, according to the Paychex Small Business Employment Watch and even Homebase, but the overarching theme is that small businesses continue to be resilient in an ever-changing landscape. Gene Marks points out that businesses are being more selective when hiring and cutting costs rather than jobs. In other news, lawsuits around accessibility – mainly concerning websites – under the Americans with Disabilities Act have risen 37%, and Gene offers some tips for owners. Businesses continue to adopt artificial intelligence at a rapid rate, but among users there is a diminished trust in the accuracy of AI’s output.
Topics:
00:00 – Introduction
00:49 – Jobs and Wages
03:00 – ADA Accessibility Lawsuits
05:20 – AI Accuracy and Trust
07:55 – Episode Wrap-up
Additional Resources
Meet Paychex: https://bit.ly/3VtM6bs
Paychex Small Business Employment Watch: https://bit.ly/paychex-sbew
DISCLAIMER:
The information presented in this podcast, and that is further provided by the presenter, should not be considered legal or accounting advice, and should not substitute for legal, accounting, or other professional advice in which the facts and circumstances may warrant. We encourage you to consult legal counsel as it pertains to your own unique situation(s) and/or with any specific legal questions you may have.
Apr 2, 2026
Apr 2, 2026
11 min
With the many challenges small business owners face on a regular basis, add forgoing pay for themselves. A survey by Bluevine found that 3 in 10 have invoice problems that cause cashflow issues that result in them not paying themselves. Host Gene Marks offers four tips on how to address the problem. In the tech startup world, funding might get a little easier with Congress voting to free up billions in grants. Speaking of easier, Anthropic’s tools, Claude Code and Claude Cowork, are performing tasks such as paying invoices and purchasing inventory with limited human prompting. Listen to the podcast to find out more about the next layer of agentic AI.
Topics:
00:00 – Introduction
00:18 – Invoicing and Cashflow Issues
04:14 – Potential Tech Industry Funding
07:14 – Agentic AI and Small Businesses
10:18 – Episode Wrap-up
Additional Resources
Meet Paychex: https://bit.ly/3VtM6bs
Learn About Invoice Factoring: https://bit.ly/invoice-factoring-types
DISCLAIMER:
The information presented in this podcast, and that is further provided by the presenter, should not be considered legal or accounting advice, and should not substitute for legal, accounting, or other professional advice in which the facts and circumstances may warrant. We encourage you to consult legal counsel as it pertains to your own unique situation(s) and/or with any specific legal questions you may have.
Mar 31, 2026
Mar 31, 2026
34 min
Small business owners are feeling cautiously hopeful, but far from settled. In this episode of THRIVE, host Gene Marks sits down with Holly Wade and Peter Hansen from the National Federation of Independent Businesses (NFIB) to break down what their three signature indexes — Optimism, Uncertainty, and Employment — are really telling us about small business in 2026. From interest rates to federal policy shifts, find out why confidence is up, but small business owners are still holding their breath.
Simplify your business operations: Visit paychex.com/MeetPaychex to learn how Paychex can handle your HR and payroll so you can focus on what counts.
Have a topic idea? Share it at https://payx.me/thrivetopics
Topics include:
00:00 – Episode preview and guest introduction
01:18 – Peter’s background and NFIB podcast overview
04:06 – Holly’s background and NFIB Research Center history
05:25 – NFIB Indexes: Optimism, Uncertainty & Employment
10:24 – Dealing with Bias: Optimism, politics & perspective
14:50 – NFIB survey demographics
21:41 – New NFIB Employment Index: What and why
25:21 – Reconciling NFIB data and survey challenges
29:47 – Current read on optimism and uncertainty
33:03 – Wrap up and thank you
#BusinessPodcast #Entrepreneurship #SmallBusiness #iHeartSummit #ApplePodcasts
#SpotifyPodcasts
DISCLAIMER:
The information presented in this podcast, and that is further provided by the presenter, should not be considered legal or accounting advice, and should not substitute for legal, accounting, or other professional advice in which the facts and circumstances may warrant. We encourage you to consult legal counsel as it pertains to your own unique situation(s) and/or with any specific legal questions you may have.
Mar 26, 2026
Mar 26, 2026
10 min
A new Mercer survey finds that only 54% of U.S. employers are ready to comply with pay transparency regulations, while host Gene Marks says it’s a smart business practice, whether or not your state requires it. A 1-800Accountant survey reveals that 57% of small business owners admit to questionable tax deductions, with complexity, not intent, being the real culprit. And while a Goldman Sachs study shows most small businesses are using AI, only 14% have truly integrated it into core operations. Listen to the podcast.
Topics:
00:00 - Introduction
01:00 - Pay Transparency
03:44 - Questionable Tax Deductions
06:32 - Small Businesses and AI
09:27 - Episode Wrap Up
Additional Resources
Meet Paychex: https://bit.ly/3VtM6bs
Article on AI for small business: https://bit.ly/4uVEhvW
DISCLAIMER:
The information presented in this podcast, and that is further provided by the presenter, should not be considered legal or accounting advice, and should not substitute for legal, accounting, or other professional advice in which the facts and circumstances may warrant. We encourage you to consult legal counsel as it pertains to your own unique situation(s) and/or with any specific legal questions you may have.
Mar 19, 2026
Mar 19, 2026
9 min
A report finds that entrepreneurs are optimistic about business prospects but nearly one-third want to sell. Gene Marks says take the positivity with a grain of salt from the sellers, plus take advantage of buying a business that already exists. Employers struggling to find labor aren’t shy about paying more for what they can find, according to a report by the National federation of Independent Businesses, with nearly 50% increasing compensation to lure candidates. And speaking of money, KPMG is offering cold, hard cash to employees who start innovating with AI tools.
Topics:
00:00 - Introduction
00:55 - Entrepreneurs Planning Exits
03:42 - Small Business Wages and Labor Market
06:11 - Incentivizing AI Innovation (KPMG's Case)
08:01 - Episode Wrap Up
Additional Resources
Meet Paychex: https://bit.ly/3VtM6bs
#BusinessPodcast #Entrepreneurship #SmallBusiness #iHeart #ApplePodcasts
#SpotifyPodcasts
DISCLAIMER:
The information presented in this podcast, and that is further provided by the presenter, should not be considered legal or accounting advice, and should not substitute for legal, accounting, or other professional advice in which the facts and circumstances may warrant. We encourage you to consult legal counsel as it pertains to your own unique situation(s) and/or with any specific legal questions you may have.
Mar 17, 2026
Mar 17, 2026
36 min
What happens when a Hallmark star meets a business podcast? Actress and Lioness executive producer Jill Wagner joins Gene Marks to reveal the business savvy behind her 20-year career. From cold-calling Taylor Sheridan to building a real estate portfolio, Jill treats her career like a CEO treats a company. She opens up about handling rejection, knowing your worth, managing money, and finding structure in the chaos of Hollywood. Whether you’re a freelancer, entrepreneur, or just hustling toward your next big break, Jill’s candid advice will leave you ready to pick up the phone.
Simplify your business operations. Learn how Paychex can handle your HR and payroll so you can focus on what counts: https://bit.ly/3VtM6bs
Have a topic idea? Share it at https://payx.me/thrivetopics
Topics include:
00:00 – Episode preview and guest introduction
02:03 – Why acting is a business
04:46 – How Jill’s “business” is structured
06:12 – Creating your own opportunities
11:00 – The perspective of experience
13:05 – How to handle rejection
16:01 – Taking work that isn’t perfectly aligned
18:45 – Reframing competition and success
22:29 – The reality of balancing career and motherhood
25:57 – Jill’s approach to money management and legal protection
30:01 – Time management in a multi-hat career
32:34 – Jill’s outlook on her future
35:03 – Wrap up and thank you
#BusinessPodcast #Entrepreneurship #SmallBusiness #iHeartSummit #ApplePodcasts
#SpotifyPodcasts
DISCLAIMER:
The information presented in this podcast, and that is further provided by the presenter, should not be considered legal or accounting advice, and should not substitute for legal, accounting, or other professional advice in which the facts and circumstances may warrant. We encourage you to consult legal counsel as it pertains to your own unique situation(s) and/or with any specific legal questions you may have.
Mar 12, 2026
Mar 12, 2026
9 min
With the U.S. Supreme Court ruling against the legality of some tariffs and another court ruling that refunds must be paid, host Gene Marks offers business owners several tips on how to set themselves up to get their piece of billions of dollars returned. The Paychex Small Business Employment Watch paints a more stable picture of job growth than the federal government, which announced a loss of 92,000 jobs in February. A new weekly feature highlighting artificial intelligence shows that people who lost jobs in customer service to AI are being rehired, and the reason why will surprise you.
Additional Resources
Meet Paychex: https://bit.ly/3VtM6bs
Paychex Small Business Employment Watch: https://bit.ly/paychex-sbew
Tariffs and refund article: https://bit.ly/tariffs-and-refunds
DISCLAIMER:
The information presented in this podcast, and that is further provided by the presenter, should not be considered legal or accounting advice, and should not substitute for legal, accounting, or other professional advice in which the facts and circumstances may warrant. We encourage you to consult legal counsel as it pertains to your own unique situation(s) and/or with any specific legal questions you may have.
Mar 5, 2026
Mar 5, 2026
7 min
A quarterly check-in with the National Federation of Independent Businesses finds optimism in many industry sectors, led by Manufacturing. Host Gene Marks says he’s hearing the same things when he speaks at association events. On the not-so-rosy side, almost 70% of HR leaders expressed concern over a lack of data to make effective decisions on raises and promotions – citing fragmented systems and manual entry. OpenAI ready to release another gadget: a smart speaker with a speaker that could change the way we make purchases. Listen to the podcast.
Additional Resources
Meet Paychex: https://bit.ly/3VtM6bs
DISCLAIMER:
The information presented in this podcast, and that is further provided by the presenter, should not be considered legal or accounting advice, and should not substitute for legal, accounting, or other professional advice in which the facts and circumstances may warrant. We encourage you to consult legal counsel as it pertains to your own unique situation(s) and/or with any specific legal questions you may have.
Feb 26, 2026
Feb 26, 2026
12 min
Host Gene Marks takes us through a whirlwind few days regarding tariffs, including the decision by the U.S. Supreme Court to strike down a majority of the president’s tariffs as unconstitutional. He’ll explain what might happen next with tariffs, why no one should expect a refund without litigation, and what businesses can do moving forward with a new set of tariffs in place. Listen to the podcast.
Additional Resources
Meet Paychex: https://bit.ly/3VtM6bs
DISCLAIMER:
The information presented in this podcast, and that is further provided by the presenter, should not be considered legal or accounting advice, and should not substitute for legal, accounting, or other professional advice in which the facts and circumstances may warrant. We encourage you to consult legal counsel as it pertains to your own unique situation(s) and/or with any specific legal questions you may have.
Feb 19, 2026
Feb 19, 2026
8 min
The Paychex Small Business Employment Watch for January reveals that job growth and hourly wage growth remain steady to start 2026, but host Gene Marks expresses some concern that wage growth is hovers around the inflation percentage. A survey from the Philadelphia Business Journal highlights a burnout concern by Millennials and Gen Z workers who continue to fear taking time off and push themselves toward professional burnout. Gene says it is indicative for owners to support employees for the good of the company and individual. Plus, despite daunting economic headwinds, many small business owners are emphasizing growth through marketing expenditures. Listen to the podcast.
Additional Resources
Meet Paychex: https://bit.ly/3VtM6bs
Paychex Small Business Employment Watch: https://bit.ly/paychex-sbew
Article on employee burnout: https://bit.ly/burnout-prevention-strategies
DISCLAIMER:
The information presented in this podcast, and that is further provided by the presenter, should not be considered legal or accounting advice, and should not substitute for legal, accounting, or other professional advice in which the facts and circumstances may warrant. We encourage you to consult legal counsel as it pertains to your own unique situation(s) and/or with any specific legal questions you may have.
Feb 17, 2026
Feb 17, 2026
33 min
Forget pizza parties and pep talks — best-selling author and Front Row Seat podcast host Ken Coleman reveals why traditional motivation tactics fail and what actually drives employee engagement. Discover the three human needs that transform retention, productivity, and profitability, plus the two simple questions every leader should ask their team. Ken explains why your job isn’t to motivate anyone and shares his proven framework for helping employees find work they’re “wired to do.”
Simplify your business operations. Learn how Paychex can handle your HR and payroll so you can focus on what counts: https://bit.ly/3VtM6bs
Have a topic idea? Share it at https://payx.me/thrivetopics
Topics include:
00:00 – Episode preview and guest introduction
01:03 – “Wired” for work: The three wires
03:58 – Diagnosing misalignment in current role
08:18 – Escaping the “miserable but safe” job
13:27 – Why change fails
17:18 – Extrinsic vs. intrinsic motivation
18:26 – What to do if you’re not a natural motivator
22:02 – Real-world example: CEO in a cubicle
24:08 – Ken’s personal work fit
27:23 – What really keeps talent: Three human needs
30:22 – Recruiting strategy: You can’t teach hunger
32:48 – Wrap up and thank you
DISCLAIMER:
The information presented in this podcast, and that is further provided by the presenter, should not be considered legal or accounting advice, and should not substitute for legal, accounting, or other professional advice in which the facts and circumstances may warrant. We encourage you to consult legal counsel as it pertains to your own unique situation(s) and/or with any specific legal questions you may have.
Feb 12, 2026
Feb 12, 2026
7 min
The Small Business Administration had a busy past few weeks in the news and for their communications department. An article reported on the agency’s reported record growth in 2025, including nearly $100 billion through the 7(a) and 504 loan programs. U.S. manufacturing gained millions in support from the Working Capital Pilot program. A bill in the U.S. Senate aims at providing free AI training and guidance nationwide, and the agency is implementing a program to provide a workaround for permit delays during federal disaster declarations. Listen to the podcast.
Additional Resources
Meet Paychex: https://bit.ly/3VtM6bs
Funding sources: https://bit.ly/funding-for-businesses
DISCLAIMER:
The information presented in this podcast, and that is further provided by the presenter, should not be considered legal or accounting advice, and should not substitute for legal, accounting, or other professional advice in which the facts and circumstances may warrant. We encourage you to consult legal counsel as it pertains to your own unique situation(s) and/or with any specific legal questions you may have.
Feb 5, 2026
Feb 5, 2026
7 min
Even with the partial government shutdown now over, the lingering impacts to employers and employees will be felt throughout 2026. The IRS is short-staffed and already communicating that there will be delays in tax refunds, which hurts finances and potentially morale and budgeting. Agentic commerce hits a snag because the payment guardrails aren’t ready for bots yet, creating purchasing bottlenecks. Tariffs are still affecting supply chains, but businesses in 2026 should be redesigning their approach to offset scarcity of some key items. And consumer confidence hits a 12-year low, while other indexes are also bottoming out around labor and income conditions.
Additional Resources
Meet Paychex: https://bit.ly/3VtM6bs
DISCLAIMER:
The information presented in this podcast, and that is further provided by the presenter, should not be considered legal or accounting advice, and should not substitute for legal, accounting, or other professional advice in which the facts and circumstances may warrant. We encourage you to consult legal counsel as it pertains to your own unique situation(s) and/or with any specific legal questions you may have.
Jan 29, 2026
Jan 29, 2026
6 min
Regardless of whether a partial federal government shutdown happens this week, businesses should be prepared and plan accordingly for potential impacts. Several large U.S. banks are entertaining the thought of a 10% rate on a credit card, which flies in the face of all warnings the banking industry has put out there on any such move. An AI company has been sued because it allegedly helped companies score job candidates without the candidates’ knowledge of what data was collected or how it was being used to evaluate. This is a bellwether moment for companies that use AI in hiring. Listen to the podcast.
Additional Resources
Meet Paychex: https://bit.ly/3VtM6bs
Ai Recruiting Tools article: https://bit.ly/ai-recruiting-tools
No Tax on Tips and OT webinar registration: https://bit.ly/no-tax-on-tips-ot
No Tax on Tips article: https://bit.ly/no-tax-tips-ot
DISCLAIMER:
The information presented in this podcast, and that is further provided by the presenter, should not be considered legal or accounting advice, and should not substitute for legal, accounting, or other professional advice in which the facts and circumstances may warrant. We encourage you to consult legal counsel as it pertains to your own unique situation(s) and/or with any specific legal questions you may have.
Jan 27, 2026
Jan 27, 2026
1hr 10 min
Navigate 2026’s biggest regulatory changes with confidence! Gene Marks sits down with Paychex experts to tackle your pressing questions on no tax on tips and overtime, multi-state paid leave requirements, worker classification rules, and mandatory Roth catch-up contributions under SECURE 2.0. From understanding R&D deductions to managing retirement plan updates, this episode breaks down complex regulations into actionable insights. Whether you’re an HR leader, payroll professional, or business owner, discover what you need to know to keep your company compliant and your employees informed in the year ahead.
Watch the full webinar: https://bit.ly/4afnAD9
Have a topic idea? Share it at https://payx.me/thrivetopics
Topics include:
00:00 – Episode preview
01:16 – Meet the tax expert
01:51 – No tax on tips and overtime
11:40 – Research and development tax credits
16:09 – Work Opportunity Tax Credit (WOTC) updates
18:45 – Tax segment wrap-up
20:13 – Meet the HR expert
20:52 – Paid family and medical leave changes
30:11 – Paid sick leave requirements
37:06 – Worker classification rules
42:03 – Overtime overview
46:00 – HR segment wrap-up
47:32 – Meet the retirement expert
48:05 – What is a Roth 401(k)?
51:01 – SECURE 2.0 and “Rothification”
57:01 – Retirement and employer responsibilities
66:50 – Tax credits under SECURE 2.0
69:20 – Wrap up and thank you
DISCLAIMER:
The information presented in this podcast, and that is further provided by the presenter, should not be considered legal or accounting advice, and should not substitute for legal, accounting, or other professional advice in which the facts and circumstances may warrant. We encourage you to consult legal counsel as it pertains to your own unique situation(s) and/or with any specific legal questions you may have.
Jan 22, 2026
Jan 22, 2026
10 min
As the deadline arrives this week for the credit card industry to implement White House demands to cap credit card interest rates, Gene Marks shares that there is no outline of a plan of how this might be handled. He also says there are mixed reviews as to how this could impact small businesses, especially around cash flow. A report about workplace flexibility shows mothers taking the brunt, but Gene suggests businesses need transparency and to work with employees to find a balance. Also, consumer prices are up 2.7% year over year, but inflation remains moderate. Listen to the podcast.
Additional Resources
Meet Paychex: https://bit.ly/3VtM6bs
2026 benefit trends: https://bit.ly/benefit-trends-2026
On-demand webinar on top regulatory issues: https://bit.ly/2026-top-regs-webinar
Top Regulatory Issues of 2026 article: https://bit.ly/top-regs-2026
No Tax on Tips and OT webinar registration: https://bit.ly/no-tax-on-tips-ot
No Tax on Tips article: https://bit.ly/no-tax-tips-ot
DISCLAIMER:
The information presented in this podcast, and that is further provided by the presenter, should not be considered legal or accounting advice, and should not substitute for legal, accounting, or other professional advice in which the facts and circumstances may warrant. We encourage you to consult legal counsel as it pertains to your own unique situation(s) and/or with any specific legal questions you may have.
Jan 15, 2026
Jan 15, 2026
8 min
As 2025 closed, small business remained resilient with job growth showing very little variation throughout the year, while hourly wage growth finished close to inflation, according to Paychex Small Business Employment Watch. Manufacturing didn’t fare well last year and is in contraction, according to the Purchasing Manager’s Index. Some industries such as computer and electronic products have seen expansion, but eyes are on what impact tariffs will continue to have. Gene Marks offers insights on these topics, as well as details on a lawsuit in NYC on predictive scheduling that cost Starbucks $39 million to settle. Businesses need to be aware of similar laws in their states.
Additional Resources
Meet Paychex: https://bit.ly/3VtM6bs
On-demand webinar on top regulatory issues: https://bit.ly/2026-top-regs-webinar
Top Regulatory Issues of 2026 article: https://bit.ly/top-regs-2026
No Tax on Tips and OT webinar registration: https://bit.ly/no-tax-on-tips-ot
No Tax on Tips article: https://bit.ly/no-tax-tips-ot
DISCLAIMER:
The information presented in this podcast, and that is further provided by the presenter, should not be considered legal or accounting advice, and should not substitute for legal, accounting, or other professional advice in which the facts and circumstances may warrant. We encourage you to consult legal counsel as it pertains to your own unique situation(s) and/or with any specific legal questions you may have.
Jan 13, 2026
Jan 13, 2026
21 min
Think no tax on tips and overtime means taxes disappear from your employees’ paychecks? Think again. Host Gene Marks sits down with Paychex Senior Federal Compliance Analyst Andy Gargana to unpack the truth behind these widely misunderstood provisions from the One, Big, Beautiful Bill. Discover why employees are still seeing taxes deducted, how the deductions actually work, critical income limits to know, and what reporting headaches may await you. Whether you’re managing a business or earning tips yourself, this conversation will save you from costly mistakes and angry phone calls.
Join us for this deep-dive webinar to master no tax on tips and overtime: https://bit.ly/3Nw1JhR
Need help managing payroll compliance? See how we do it: https://bit.ly/3VtM6bs
Have a topic idea? Share it at https://payx.me/thrivetopics
Topics include:
00:00 – Episode preview and guest introduction
01:52 – What no tax on tips and overtime is and how it works
04:01 – Overtime deduction explained
06:12 – What happens when employees file 2025 taxes?
07:22 – Changes expected in 2026 and beyond
08:34 – How should employers report no tax on tips and overtime?
10:23 – Biggest misperception: “Why am I still paying tax?”
11:16 – Limits and phaseouts
13:18 – What can payroll providers and HR teams do?
15:05 – Why employees must still verify their numbers
16:08 – 2026 and beyond: More structure, then expiration
18:03 – Avoiding IRS red flags
20:10 – Wrap up and thank you
DISCLAIMER:
The information presented in this podcast, and that is further provided by the presenter, should not be considered legal or accounting advice, and should not substitute for legal, accounting, or other professional advice in which the facts and circumstances may warrant. We encourage you to consult legal counsel as it pertains to your own unique situation(s) and/or with any specific legal questions you may have.
Jan 8, 2026
Jan 8, 2026
7 min
Some major analysts are throwing the sluggish job market on the backburner, saying the 2026 economy will rapidly grow. Goldman Sachs also said the expected tax refunds will stimulate spending. Gene Marks points out that the American Trucking Association doesn’t see it that way based on the truck tonnage index. Companies might also benefit from a phased retirement approach to ease transition to the next generation in the workforce.
Additional Resources
Meet Paychex: https://bit.ly/3VtM6bs
Top Regulatory Issues webinar: https://bit.ly/2026-top-regs-webinar
Top Regulatory Issues of 2026 article: https://bit.ly/top-regs-2026
No Tax on Tips and OT webinar: https://bit.ly/no-tax-on-tips-ot
No Tax on Tips article: https://bit.ly/no-tax-tips-ot
DISCLAIMER:
The information presented in this podcast, and that is further provided by the presenter, should not be considered legal or accounting advice, and should not substitute for legal, accounting, or other professional advice in which the facts and circumstances may warrant. We encourage you to consult legal counsel as it pertains to your own unique situation(s) and/or with any specific legal questions you may have.
Dec 18, 2025
Dec 18, 2025
8 min
Lawsuits and subsequent internal audits have put the SBA’s highly successful Section 8(a) loan program in jeopardy. The program helps small businesses owned by economically disadvantaged U.S. citizens gain access to federal contracts and training. Gene Marks also talks about the rise in occurrence – now 33% – of jobs that small businesses can’t find qualified applicants to fill. Plus, he points to the pros and cons of the administration’s executive order on AI.
Additional Resources
Meet Paychex: https://bit.ly/3VtM6bs
Top Regulatory Issues webinar: https://bit.ly/2026-top-regs-webinar
AI-assisted recruiting: https://bit.ly/ai-assisted-recruiting
Alternative funding sources: https://bit.ly/alternative-funding
DISCLAIMER:
The information presented in this podcast, and that is further provided by the presenter, should not be considered legal or accounting advice, and should not substitute for legal, accounting, or other professional advice in which the facts and circumstances may warrant. We encourage you to consult legal counsel as it pertains to your own unique situation(s) and/or with any specific legal questions you may have.
Dec 16, 2025
Dec 16, 2025
26 min
Nervous about speaking in front of your team or at industry events? Seth Dechtman, founder of The Keynote Curators, shares essential public speaking advice from his 20+ years of experience. Learn why preparation beats memorization, how to handle unexpected disruptions, and why your message matters more than your performance. From conquering stage fright to mastering the room without a podium, Seth reveals the techniques that separate amateur presenters from confident communicators.
Simplify your business operations. Learn how Paychex can handle your HR and payroll so you can focus on what counts: https://bit.ly/3VtM6bs
Have a topic idea? Share it at https://payx.me/thrivetopics
Topics include:
00:00 – Episode preview and guest introduction
02:03 – What is The Keynote Curators?
05:49 – How the speaking industry has changed
06:52 – Why use a speakers bureau?
09:02 – What it takes to succeed as a speaker
12:45 – Everyday business speaking
15:23 – The power of preparation
18:28 – PowerPoints: Help or hindrance?
19:44 – Advice for speakers
24:00 – Style and stagecraft: Podium vs. movement
25:10 – Wrap up and thank you
DISCLAIMER:
The information presented in this podcast, and that is further provided by the presenter, should not be considered legal or accounting advice, and should not substitute for legal, accounting, or other professional advice in which the facts and circumstances may warrant. We encourage you to consult legal counsel as it pertains to your own unique situation(s) and/or with any specific legal questions you may have.
Dec 10, 2025
Dec 10, 2025
6 min
Small businesses continue to experience stable job and hourly wage growth, according to the Paychex Small Business Employment Watch. Gene Marks says this is good news considering that small businesses contribute half of this country’s GDP. Gene also shares details about how tariffs are reportedly starting to impact businesses decisions regarding headcount, especially in manufacturing that is expecting to do layoffs in 2026. Cyber Monday Sales rose 7.1% year over year, but Gene warns that many of these sales were done on buy-now, pay-later plans, which have strict policies. Listen to the podcast.
Additional Resources
Meet Paychex: https://bit.ly/3VtM6bs
Top Regulatory Issues webinar: https://bit.ly/2026-top-regs-webinar
DISCLAIMER:
The information presented in this podcast, and that is further provided by the presenter, should not be considered legal or accounting advice, and should not substitute for legal, accounting, or other professional advice in which the facts and circumstances may warrant. We encourage you to consult legal counsel as it pertains to your own unique situation(s) and/or with any specific legal questions you may have.
Dec 4, 2025
Dec 4, 2025
7 min
An MIT study reveals that AI can do the tasks equal to 11.7% of the U.S. workforce, but Gene Marks says AI isn’t ready to replace jobs, so employers should be looking to train their people on how to maximize AI usage. Here’s some holiday cheer: 77% of consumers surveyed would rather do their holiday shopping at small businesses. Plus, don’t be a Grinch with praise. Recognition improves morale and productivity, and although 99% of owners agree, less than half of that feel they have the resources to do it. Learn what Gene thinks about doing the small things that engage employees.
Additional Resources
Meet Paychex: https://bit.ly/3VtM6bs
AI for Small Business: https://bit.ly/ai-sentiment
Non-Traditional Benefits: https://bit.ly/affordable-benefits
DISCLAIMER:
The information presented in this podcast, and that is further provided by the presenter, should not be considered legal or accounting advice, and should not substitute for legal, accounting, or other professional advice in which the facts and circumstances may warrant. We encourage you to consult legal counsel as it pertains to your own unique situation(s) and/or with any specific legal questions you may have.
Dec 2, 2025
Dec 2, 2025
39 min
Discover how AI tools are reshaping the marketing landscape and how businesses can leverage these innovations to grow their brand presence online. Karly Scott, Manager of Client Services at Logical Position, joins us to discuss the evolving landscape of YouTube marketing, including organic and paid strategies for boosting visibility, engagement, and conversion rates. Karly shares insights into the significance of AI tools in enhancing video content and discusses strategies for optimizing YouTube ads.
Have a question for upcoming episodes or a topic you want covered? Let us know: https://payx.me/thrivetopics
Topics include:
00:00 – Episode preview and welcome
01:04 – Guest introduction: Karly Scott
03:28 – AI tools and challenges
06:02 – Importance of human expertise in AI
08:04 – AI in creative strategy
12:04 – Tackling YouTube and AI
18:14 – Effective YouTube strategy and ROI
30:32 – Ad campaign tips
38:02 – Wrap up and thank you
DISCLAIMER:
The information presented in this podcast, and that is further provided by the presenter, should not be considered legal or accounting advice, and should not substitute for legal, accounting, or other professional advice in which the facts and circumstances may warrant. We encourage you to consult legal counsel as it pertains to your own unique situation(s) and/or with any specific legal questions you may have.
Nov 20, 2025
Nov 20, 2025
6 min
Despite a dip on the Small Business Optimism Index, it’s the 12-point drop on the uncertainty index and a cooling of price hike intentions that has Gene Marks pointing to a potential brighter run in the new year. Gene also shares insights on why nobody wants to become a manager and sees this as an opportunity to make improvements in training. AI keeps marching through the workplace, with 30% of firms surveyed noting that they will use the tech to replace workers in 2026. What industries are most susceptible?
Additional Resources
Meet Paychex: https://bit.ly/3VtM6bs
AI for Small Business: https://bit.ly/ai-sentiment
DISCLAIMER:
The information presented in this podcast, and that is further provided by the presenter, should not be considered legal or accounting advice, and should not substitute for legal, accounting, or other professional advice in which the facts and circumstances may warrant. We encourage you to consult legal counsel as it pertains to your own unique situation(s) and/or with any specific legal questions you may have.
Nov 18, 2025
Nov 18, 2025
25 min
California is rewriting the employment law playbook, and if you employ anyone in the Golden State, including remote workers, you need to pay attention. In this episode, Paychex HR expert Alex Papazis unpacks five critical employment laws hitting California in 2026: minimum wage increases, new exempt salary thresholds, stricter pay transparency rules, mandatory emergency contact updates, and the end of stay-or-pay agreements. Not in California? Don’t tune out. These regulations apply to any business with California-based employees, and history shows us that what starts in California often becomes the national standard. Get ahead of the curve — understand these changes now before they become your problem tomorrow.
Need help navigating new employment laws where you do business? Let our experts help: https://bit.ly/meet-paychex
Have a question for upcoming episodes or a topic you want covered? Let us know: https://payx.me/thrivetopics
Topics include:
00:00 – Episode preview and welcome
01:46 – Meet Alex Papazis: HR Risk and Response Partner
03:00 – Why California employment laws matter nationwide
04:34 – Minimum wage and exempt salaries
08:12 – The value of outsourcing HR compliance
08:54 – Workplace Know Your Rights Act
12:05 – How Paychex can help navigate compliance
13:29 – Personnel file and training record requirements
16:53 – Pay transparency regulations
20:07 – Stay or pay agreement changes
21:49 – Episode recap and key takeaways
24:22 – Wrap up and thank you
DISCLAIMER:
The information presented in this podcast, and that is further provided by the presenter, should not be considered legal or accounting advice, and should not substitute for legal, accounting, or other professional advice in which the facts and circumstances may warrant. We encourage you to consult legal counsel as it pertains to your own unique situation(s) and/or with any specific legal questions you may have.
Nov 13, 2025
Nov 13, 2025
8 min
The government shutdown will leave lingering issues for businesses even after it ends. Gene Marks comments on the delayed payments from the government and slow service from agencies such as the IRS. Plus, another shutdown is looming. Gene takes a look at the mixed bag of data on job growth and hourly wage growth from the Paychex Small Business Employment Watch – one’s consistent and one’s consistently below 3%. And if businesses are looking for funding, the preference hasn’t been the big corporate banks but, rather, small banks that are local. Gene explains why.
DISCLAIMER:
The information presented in this podcast, and that is further provided by the presenter, should not be considered legal or accounting advice, and should not substitute for legal, accounting, or other professional advice in which the facts and circumstances may warrant. We encourage you to consult legal counsel as it pertains to your own unique situation(s) and/or with any specific legal questions you may have.
Nov 6, 2025
Nov 6, 2025
8 min
Large businesses are shedding workers, including 14,000 by Amazon. People are pointing at artificial intelligence and automation, but Gene Marks says it’s something different – at this point. He also says there is opportunity for small businesses now. Plus, health insurance is so convoluted that businesses are popping on Reddit to get firsthand accounts and advice from other businesses about what to do. And, if life knocks you down, get a lift from an advertising campaign. Learn how a German company turned the heist at the Louvre into a clever campaign about their machinery. Listen to the podcast.
Additional Resources
Make Paychex an extension of your team: https://bit.ly/meet-paychex
DISCLAIMER:
The information presented in this podcast, and that is further provided by the presenter, should not be considered legal or accounting advice, and should not substitute for legal, accounting, or other professional advice in which the facts and circumstances may warrant. We encourage you to consult legal counsel as it pertains to your own unique situation(s) and/or with any specific legal questions you may have.
Nov 4, 2025
Nov 4, 2025
33 min
Is AI really living up to the hype, or just creating more work? Gene Marks sits down with Louis Gutierrez, director of AI at Constant Contact, for a conversation about AI’s sometimes messy reality and promising future. From “work slop” to data disasters, Louis reveals why adoption is only the first step — and shares what’s coming next. Plus, learn why your team shouldn’t fear AI, why AI governance matters, and how fine-tuning could turn C-student AI into an A-plus performer.
Spending too much time on HR tasks? Discover how the right support can give you hours back in your week at https://bit.ly/meet-paychex
Have a question for upcoming episodes or a topic you want covered? Let us know: https://payx.me/thrivetopics
Topics include:
00:00 – Episode preview and welcome
01:50 – Guest introduction: Louis Gutierrez
03:33 – Louis’s journey into AI
05:03 – AI’s role in business
07:16 – Challenges with AI accuracy
11:01 – How data and objectives can impact AI performance
13:48 – Creating your AI governance strategy
16:46 – The future of marketing automation
19:27 – Building customer trust in AI-powered tools
23:08 – Current and future AI capabilities
27:34 – Fine-tuning AI models for better results
29:37 – Will AI replace jobs?
32:24 – Wrap up and thank you
DISCLAIMER:
The information presented in this podcast, and that is further provided by the presenter, should not be considered legal or accounting advice, and should not substitute for legal, accounting, or other professional advice in which the facts and circumstances may warrant. We encourage you to consult legal counsel as it pertains to your own unique situation(s) and/or with any specific legal questions you may have.
Oct 30, 2025
Oct 30, 2025
9 min
Many potential holiday shoppers and business owners who stand to benefit are showing preseason cheer, as they express their desire to buy gifts despite anxiety about the economy and inflation. Gene Marks shares details of the Intuit survey, as well as news about the AICPA pushing the IRS to deliver additional guidance on no tax on tips and overtime to clarify for business owners their responsibilities. He also talks about the Grinch-like behavior of predatory legal firms targeting small businesses with lawsuits over their website accessibility under the Americans with Disabilities Act. Listen to the podcast.
Additional Resources
Make Paychex an extension of your team: https://bit.ly/meet-paychex
DISCLAIMER:
The information presented in this podcast, and that is further provided by the presenter, should not be considered legal or accounting advice, and should not substitute for legal, accounting, or other professional advice in which the facts and circumstances may warrant. We encourage you to consult legal counsel as it pertains to your own unique situation(s) and/or with any specific legal questions you may have.