In this special two-part series, Rich Sierra kicks off the first Business SOS! episode of 2026 with a unique travel-focused conversation. Joined by his wife and co-host Sharon Sierra, Rich shares their personal experience traveling to Portugal with LLV Travel (Luxury Lifestyle Vacations) before introducing the founders, Pepe and Claudia Aguirre. In this episode you are introduced to LLV Travel—a couples-only travel agency designed for open-minded, adventurous couples seeking unforgettable, bucket-list experiences around the world. Pepe and Claudia discuss how LLV Travel began, how long they’ve been in business, and what makes their river cruises, destination trips, and resort takeovers different from traditional travel experiences. https://www.llvclub.com/The conversation explores who typically attends these trips, the age ranges and professional backgrounds of travelers, and why so many couples return year after year. The episode also dives into the challenges of building an international travel business, including contracting with companies outside the United States and managing complex logistics across multiple countries.This episode keeps the focus on travel, community, trust, and once-in-a-lifetime experiences—offering listeners an inside look at how LLV Travel creates meaningful journeys and “rocking chair moments” for couples worldwide. Email: Rich@RichSierra.com📞 Phone: 866-842-5202🌐 Website: https://www.FloridaSmallBusinessLegalCenter.com📘 Book: Business SOS! Eight Common Legal Mistakes Business Owners Make and How to Avoid Them – available on Amazon & Barnes & Noble📱 Facebook: @FSBLEGAL📺 YouTube: @RichardSierra🐦 Twitter/X: @Rich_Sierra📸 Instagram: @FSBLEGAL💼 Digital Business Card: https://poplme.co/hash/Qd9D1azj/1/s

We are revisiting Episode 59 Special Guest: Jamie Diaz, President of Dynamite Dog Training Center, Inc. Jamie owns the largest dog training center in South Florida with centers in Deerfield Beach, Jupiter, Delray Beach and opening a new location in Fort Lauderdale. As a long term client of the Florida Small Business Legal Center, Jamie shares her insights on challeges she faced as an entrepreneur and how she developed systems to scale her business in this second part of the interview, Jamie shares ther five top tips to train your dog. How to Contact Jamie Diaz: TikTok: @dynamitedogtraining - Facebook: Dynamite Dog Training and Lucky Dog Training Club - Instagram: @dynamitedogtraining and @luckydogtrainingclub - YouTube: @dynamitedogtraining140 and https://www.dynamitedogtraining.com/How to Contact Rich Sierra: 1. Via Email at Rich@RichSierra.com 2. https://www.floridasmallbusinesslegalcenter.com 3. FaceBook @ FSBLEGAL 4. youtube.com/@RichardSierra 5. twitter.com/Rich_Sierra 6. Instagram: FSBLEGAL 7. https://richsierra.com . Also, Business SOS! Eight Common Legal Mistakes Business Owners Make and How to Avoid Them is available on Amazon, Barnes and Noble, or ask for it at your local bookstore. 

Buying an existing business can look like the perfect shortcut to success — established customers, cash flow, and systems already in place. But what many buyers don’t realize is that some of the most dangerous risks are the things sellers don’t tell you.In this episode of Business SOS!, business attorney Rich Sierra, President of the Florida Small Business Legal Center, breaks down the hidden financial, operational, and legal issues that buyers often discover only after closing. From inflated numbers and undisclosed liabilities to employee, lease, and contract landmines, this episode explains why so many business purchases end up in disputes and lawsuits.If you’re thinking about buying a business — or already have — this episode will help you spot red flags, ask better questions, and protect yourself before it’s too late.Rich also takes a moment to wish listeners a Happy Hanukkah and a Merry Christmas, thanking you for another year of support of the Business SOS! podcast. Email: Rich@RichSierra.com📞 Phone: 866-842-5202🌐 Website: https://www.FloridaSmallBusinessLegalCenter.com📘 Book: Business SOS! Eight Common Legal Mistakes Business Owners Make and How to Avoid Them – available on Amazon & Barnes & Noble📱 Facebook: @FSBLEGAL📺 YouTube: @RichardSierra🐦 Twitter/X: @Rich_Sierra📸 Instagram: @FSBLEGAL💼 Digital Business Card: https://poplme.co/hash/Qd9D1azj/1/s

Being deposed is one of the most critical — and most stressful — moments in any business lawsuit. In this episode of Business SOS!, attorney Rich Sierra, President of the Florida Small Business Legal Center, explains how to prepare effectively for your deposition, what opposing counsel is trying to do, and the mistakes that can destroy your case.Rich breaks down exactly what business owners should do before, during, and after a deposition, including how to answer questions, how to stay calm under pressure, and how to avoid getting trapped by clever questioning. If your business is in litigation — or might be — this episode gives you the roadmap to protect your credibility and strengthen your case. Contact Attorney Rich Sierra📧 Email: Rich@RichSierra.com📞 Phone: 866-842-5202🌐 Website: https://www.FloridaSmallBusinessLegalCenter.com📘 Book: Business SOS! Eight Common Legal Mistakes Business Owners Make and How to Avoid Them – available on Amazon & Barnes & Noble📱 Facebook: @FSBLEGAL📺 YouTube: @RichardSierra🐦 Twitter/X: @Rich_Sierra📸 Instagram: @FSBLEGAL💼 Digital Business Card: https://poplme.co/hash/Qd9D1azj/1/s

Being deposed is one of the most critical — and most stressful — moments in any business lawsuit. In this episode of Business SOS!, attorney Rich Sierra, President of the Florida Small Business Legal Center, explains how to prepare effectively for your deposition, what opposing counsel is trying to do, and the mistakes that can destroy your case.Rich breaks down exactly what business owners should do before, during, and after a deposition, including how to answer questions, how to stay calm under pressure, and how to avoid getting trapped by clever questioning. If your business is in litigation — or might be — this episode gives you the roadmap to protect your credibility and strengthen your case. Contact Attorney Rich Sierra📧 Email: Rich@RichSierra.com📞 Phone: 866-842-5202🌐 Website: https://www.FloridaSmallBusinessLegalCenter.com📘 Book: Business SOS! Eight Common Legal Mistakes Business Owners Make and How to Avoid Them – available on Amazon & Barnes & Noble📱 Facebook: @FSBLEGAL📺 YouTube: @RichardSierra🐦 Twitter/X: @Rich_Sierra📸 Instagram: @FSBLEGAL💼 Digital Business Card: https://poplme.co/hash/Qd9D1azj/1/s

Is your business stuck in a lawsuit that’s draining time, money, and energy? You’re not alone. Most small business owners don’t realize how fast litigation costs pile up — even when they’re right.In this episode of Business SOS!, attorney Rich Sierra, President of the Florida Small Business Legal Center, breaks down:• Why lawsuits become money pits• The five biggest money leaks in litigation• How to stop runaway legal expenses• Smart strategies for managing lawsuits like a business investment• How to prevent costly disputes before they startWhether you’re currently involved in a lawsuit — or want to avoid one — this episode will give you the clarity and tools to protect your business and your bottom line. Contact Attorney Rich Sierra📧 Email: Rich@RichSierra.com📞 Phone: 866-842-5202🌐 Website: https://www.FloridaSmallBusinessLegalCenter.com📘 Book: Business SOS! Eight Common Legal Mistakes Business Owners Make and How to Avoid Them – available on Amazon & Barnes & Noble📱 Facebook: @FSBLEGAL📺 YouTube: @RichardSierra🐦 Twitter/X: @Rich_Sierra📸 Instagram: @FSBLEGAL💼 Digital Business Card: https://poplme.co/hash/Qd9D1azj/1/s

 Florida Business Lawyer Rich Sierra interviews Kate Delaney, who is an award-winning National broadcast personality who has interviewed over 16,000 people, including US Presidents and countless of celebrities and sport legends in her twenty-years in her radio and television career. She won an Emmy for her special report on the AIDS epidemic in New Mexico and several Golden Mics for a series on immigration. She is a best-selling author of several books, including the one we will be speaking about today, "Deal your own Destiny, increase your Odds, Win BIG, and Become Extraordinary" . She is also the host of America Tonight Radio Show, which reaches over three million listeners nightly through many stations throughout the country. You can reach Kate at https://katedelaneyradio.com and https://katedelaneyspeaker.com How You Can Reach Rich:1. Via Email at Rich@RichSierra.com2. http://www.floridasmallbusinesslegalcenter.com3. FaceBook @ FSBLEGAL4. youtube.com/@RichardSierra5. twitter.com/Rich_Sierra6. Instagram: FSBLEGALAlso, Business SOS! Eight Common Legal Mistakes Business Owners Make and How to Avoid Them is available on Amazon, Barnes and Noble, or ask for it at your local bookstore.

Episode 31: Florida Small Business Lawyer Rich Sierra interviews Mike Sierra and Caroline Castille. These two successful entrepreneurs are partners in business and in life and share with us proven strategies to improve your digital marketing strategy and how a business can significantly improve its cash flow through an "Email On Performance" campaign. You can reach Mike and Caroline through https://emailonperformance.com/ and https://flightpathgolf.com/. How You Can Reach Rich: 1. Via Email at Rich@RichSierra.com2. http://www.floridasmallbusinesslegalcenter.com3. FaceBook @ FSBLEGAL4. youtube.com/@RichardSierra5. twitter.com/Rich_Sierra6. Instagram: FSBLEGALAlso, Business SOS! Eight Common Legal Mistakes Business Owners Make and How to Avoid Them is available on Amazon, Barnes and Noble, or ask for it at your local bookstore.

You’ve received your Trial Order, and now the clock is ticking — deadlines, discovery, and witness prep are suddenly all due at once. Why does trial preparation take so long? Why does it cost so much?In this episode of Business SOS!, attorney Rich Sierra, President of the Florida Small Business Legal Center, breaks down what’s inside a Trial Order, the purpose behind each deadline, and why trial preparation can be one of the most time-consuming and expensive parts of litigation.Rich also dives deep into the Joint Pretrial Stipulation — the critical, court-mandated document that becomes your case’s roadmap for trial. Learn what it includes, why it’s so labor-intensive, and how missing a single deadline can jeopardize your entire case.This episode is a must-listen for business owners in litigation, entrepreneurs facing trial, and anyone who wants to understand how to work effectively with their attorney during the trial phase. How to Contact Rich Sierra📧 Email: Rich@RichSierra.com🌐 Website: FloridaSmallBusinessLegalCenter.com📱 Facebook: @FSBLEGAL📺 YouTube: @RichardSierra🐦 Twitter/X: @Rich_Sierra📸 Instagram: @FSBLEGAL

Have you protected your business from the unexpected? In this episode of the Business SOS! podcast, attorney Rich Sierra breaks down the essential insurance policies every small business needs to survive lawsuits, disasters, and everyday risks. From general liability to cybersecurity coverage, Rich explains the real-world importance of each policy — and the costly mistakes business owners make when they skip them. Whether you’re a new entrepreneur or a seasoned business owner, this episode will help you build a legal safety net to keep your company and assets secure.👉 In this episode, you’ll learn:The difference between general liability and professional liability coverageWhy business interruption insurance can save your company during a crisisHow workers’ compensation and EPLI prevent devastating employee lawsuitsWhy cyber liability and umbrella coverage are more important than everHow to build a custom insurance strategy for long-term business protectionDon’t wait until it’s too late — learn how to shield your business from legal and financial disaster! 📧 Email: Rich@RichSierra.com🌐 Website: FloridaSmallBusinessLegalCenter.com📱 Facebook: @FSBLEGAL📺 YouTube: @RichardSierra🐦 Twitter/X: @Rich_Sierra📸 Instagram: @FSBLEGAL💼 Digital Business Card: https://poplme.co/hash/Qd9D1azj/1/s

In this episode, Rich Sierra, President of the Florida Small Business Legal Center, breaks down one of the most serious — and costly — mistakes business owners make: misclassifying employees and failing to pay wages properly.Rich explains how treating workers as “independent contractors” when they are actually employees can trigger IRS audits, back wage claims, and even personal liability under the Fair Labor Standards Act (FLSA) and Florida law. He also provides actionable steps business owners can take to stay compliant and protect their company from lawsuits.🧩 Key Topics Covered1. Employee vs. Independent ContractorLegal definitions under the IRS control test and economic realities test.Common misclassification red flags — supervision, tools, schedules, and payment structure.Why intent doesn’t matter: how courts look at actual working relationships.2. The Cost of MisclassificationFinancial penalties, back pay, and lost tax deductions.Double exposure — both federal (IRS & DOL) and state (Florida Department of Revenue) audits.The impact on employee morale and your company’s reputation.3. Unpaid Wage ClaimsUnder FLSA, owners and managers can be personally liable for unpaid wages.Florida’s wage claim process allows recovery of attorney’s fees and double damages.The importance of accurate timekeeping and compliance with overtime rules.4. How to Stay CompliantConduct classification audits.Use written contractor agreements aligned with legal standards.Maintain separate 1099 and payroll documentation.Review exemptions and overtime eligibility regularly.Consider Employment Practices Liability Insurance (EPLI) for coverage.💬 Takeaway Quote“When in doubt — classify them as employees. It’s safer, and it protects your business from devastating financial exposure.”— Rich Sierra, Esq.🔗 Resources MentionedFair Labor Standards Act (FLSA): https://www.dol.gov/agencies/whd/flsaFlorida Department of Revenue: https://floridarevenue.com/📞 How to Contact Rich Sierra📧 Email: Rich@RichSierra.com🌐 Website: FloridaSmallBusinessLegalCenter.com📱 Facebook: @FSBLEGAL📺 YouTube: @RichardSierra🐦 Twitter/X: @Rich_Sierra📸 Instagram: @FSBLEGAL💼 Digital Business Card: https://poplme.co/hash/Qd9D1azj/1/s📘 Business SOS! Eight Common Legal Mistakes Business Owners Make and How to Avoid ThemAvailable now on Amazon, Barnes & Noble, or ask for it at your local bookstore.

In this episode of Business SOS!, attorney Rich Sierra, President of the Florida Small Business Legal Center, exposes the harsh truth behind representing yourself in court. Many business owners think they’re saving money by skipping legal representation — but the reality is, it can cost them everything.Rich walks you through the hidden dangers of going “pro se,” from missed deadlines and procedural errors to personal liability and devastating judgments. Learn why even smart, experienced business owners lose cases they could have won — and what you can do to avoid becoming one of them.You’ll discover:Why representing yourself is riskier than you think.The procedural and evidentiary traps that destroy cases.How judges perceive self-represented litigants.The real financial and emotional costs of “saving money.”How to work effectively with an attorney and protect your business.Whether you’re in the middle of a dispute or just want to protect yourself before it happens, this episode is a must-listen for every serious business owner.📞 How to Contact Rich Sierra📧 Email: Rich@RichSierra.com🌐 Website: FloridaSmallBusinessLegalCenter.com📱 Facebook: @FSBLEGAL📺 YouTube: @RichardSierra🐦 Twitter/X: @Rich_Sierra📸 Instagram: @FSBLEGAL💼 Digital Business Card: https://poplme.co/hash/Qd9D1azj/1/s📘 Business SOS! Eight Common Legal Mistakes Business Owners Make and How to Avoid ThemAvailable on Amazon, Barnes & Noble, or ask for it at your local bookstore.

Franchises can be a great opportunity—but they can also drain your savings if you don’t know what to look for. In this episode of the Business SOS! podcast, attorney Rich Sierra continues the franchise series with the last 11 disclosures (Items 13–23) in the Franchise Disclosure Document (FDD).You’ll learn:✅ How trademarks, patents, and intellectual property factor into franchise rights✅ Why Item 19 (earnings claims) is one of the most critical sections—and how to spot misleading promises✅ The importance of reviewing outlet data (turnover rates of franchisees)✅ What to watch for in franchise contracts, including personal guarantees and dispute resolution clauses✅ Smart strategies to evaluate a franchise before you invest📌 Resource: FTC Franchise Rule Compliance GuideHow to Contact Rich Sierra:📧 Email: Rich@RichSierra.com🌐 Website: https://www.FloridaSmallBusinessLegalCenter.com📱 Facebook: @FSBLEGAL📺 YouTube: @RichardSierra🐦 Twitter/X: @Rich_Sierra📸 Instagram: @FSBLEGAL💼 Digital Business Card: https://poplme.co/hash/Qd9D1azj/1/s📘 Business SOS! Eight Common Legal Mistakes Business Owners Make and How to Avoid Them is available on Amazon, Barnes & Noble, or your local bookstore.

Thinking about buying a franchise? Before you sign anything, you need to understand how franchises work and what legal risks come with them. In this episode of the Business SOS! podcast, attorney Rich Sierra breaks down the basics of franchising and the first 12 required disclosures in the Franchise Disclosure Document (FDD) under the FTC Franchise Rule.You’ll learn:✅ What makes a business a “franchise” under the law✅ The three elements of a franchise (trademark, control/assistance, and required payment)✅ The first 12 disclosures every franchisor must provide, including management experience, litigation history, initial fees, estimated investment, and territory rights✅ Red flags to look out for before you invest📌 Resource: FTC Franchise Rule Compliance GuideHow to Contact Rich Sierra:📧 Email: Rich@RichSierra.com🌐 Website: https://www.FloridaSmallBusinessLegalCenter.com📱 Facebook: @FSBLEGAL📺 YouTube: @RichardSierra🐦 Twitter/X: @Rich_Sierra📸 Instagram: @FSBLEGAL💼 Digital Business Card: https://poplme.co/hash/Qd9D1azj/1/s📘 Business SOS! Eight Common Legal Mistakes Business Owners Make and How to Avoid Them is available on Amazon, Barnes & Noble, or your local bookstore.

A business plan isn’t just a tool to get a loan or impress investors—it’s your legal safety net. In this episode of the Business SOS! podcast, Rich Sierra, President of the Florida Small Business Legal Center, explains how a well-crafted business plan can help you avoid costly disputes and protect your business.From clarifying ownership and partnership roles to ensuring compliance with state and federal regulations, your business plan can prevent misunderstandings that often lead to lawsuits. We’ll cover how contracts, risk management strategies, and even exit planning fit into your roadmap for success.Whether you’re starting a new business or looking to strengthen an existing one, this episode will give you practical insights to stay protected and grow with confidence.How to Contact Rich Sierra:📧 Email: Rich@RichSierra.comScore's Website: https:www.score.org🌐 Website: https://www.FloridaSmallBusinessLegalCenter.com📞 Phone: 866-842-5202📱 Facebook: @FSBLEGAL📸 Instagram: @FSBLEGAL📺 YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@RichardSierra🐦 Twitter/X: @Rich_Sierra💼 Digital Business Card: https://poplme.co/hash/Qd9D1azj/1/s📘 Business SOS! Eight Common Legal Mistakes Business Owners Make and How to Avoid Them is available on Amazon, Barnes & Noble, or ask for it at your local bookstore.

Discovery is the battleground where lawsuits are won or lost—and yet, many business owners walk right into traps that can destroy their case. In this episode of the Business SOS! podcast, Rich Sierra breaks down the first five fatal mistakes business owners make when responding to discovery requests.You’ll learn what Requests for Production, Interrogatories, and Requests for Admissions really are, and why they matter. Then, Rich uncovers the costly errors—like missing deadlines, incomplete answers, and careless admissions—that can expose your business to devastating risks.If you’re facing a lawsuit or simply want to be prepared, this episode will give you practical steps to protect yourself and your company during discovery.How to Contact Rich Sierra:📧 Email: Rich@RichSierra.com🌐 Website: https://www.FloridaSmallBusinessLegalCenter.com📞 Phone: 866-842-5202📱 Facebook: @FSBLEGAL📸 Instagram: @FSBLEGAL📺 YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@RichardSierra🐦 Twitter/X: @Rich_Sierra💼 Digital Business Card: https://poplme.co/hash/Qd9D1azj/1/s📘 Business SOS! Eight Common Legal Mistakes Business Owners Make and How to Avoid Them is available on Amazon, Barnes & Noble, or ask for it at your local bookstore.

Business disputes are stressful, expensive, and time-consuming. But how do you know when to settle and when to fight? In this episode of the Business SOS! Podcast, Rich Sierra, business attorney and host, breaks down the smartest strategies to manage legal battles without destroying your company.You’ll learn:⚖️ How to evaluate risk vs. reward before suing⚖️ The hidden emotional and financial costs of litigation⚖️ How mediation and alternative dispute resolution save money⚖️ Settlement strategies to avoid prolonged court battles⚖️ When fighting is the only way to protect your businessIf you’re facing a dispute with a client, vendor, or partner, this episode will help you protect your time, money, and peace of mind.📌 Contact Rich Sierra:📧 Email: Rich@RichSierra.com🌐 Website: https://www.FloridaSmallBusinessLegalCenter.com📞 Phone: 866-842-5202📱 Facebook: @FSBLEGAL📸 Instagram: @FSBLEGAL📺 YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@RichardSierra💼 Digital Card: https://poplme.co/hash/Qd9D1azj/1/s📘 Business SOS! Eight Common Legal Mistakes Business Owners Make and How to Avoid Them is available on Amazon, Barnes & Noble, or at your local bookstore.

Your contracts may be putting your business — and personal assets — at risk without you even realizing it. In this episode of the Business SOS! Podcast, Rich Sierra, President of the Florida Small Business Legal Center, reveals the 10 hidden contract traps that can cost you thousands and even jeopardize your business.You’ll learn:⚠️ How non-compete and non-solicitation clauses restrict your future⚠️ Why indemnification clauses could make you liable for someone else’s mistakes⚠️ How automatic renewals and fine print can drain your cash flow⚠️ The danger of personal guarantees in commercial leases⚠️ Negotiation strategies to avoid costly disputesWhether you’re signing with vendors, partners, or landlords, this episode will help you protect your business, money, and future.📌 Contact Rich Sierra:📧 Email: Rich@RichSierra.com🌐 Website: https://www.FloridaSmallBusinessLegalCenter.com📞 Phone: 866-842-5202📱 Facebook: @FSBLEGAL📸 Instagram: @FSBLEGAL📺 YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@RichardSierra💼 Digital Card: https://poplme.co/hash/Qd9D1azj/1/s📘 Business SOS! Eight Common Legal Mistakes Business Owners Make and How to Avoid Them is available on Amazon, Barnes & Noble, or at your local bookstore.

Thinking about filing a lawsuit? Before you head to court, you need to understand the real challenges, risks, and strategies behind suing someone. In this episode of the Business SOS! podcast, Rich Sierra, business attorney and host, breaks down everything business owners need to know when considering legal action.You’ll learn:⚖️ The hidden costs of suing someone (and how to budget realistically)⚖️ The emotional toll lawsuits take on business owners and teams⚖️ Key steps to prepare before you file a case⚖️ Common mistakes that can sink your lawsuit before it even begins⚖️ Practical tips to survive the process—and protect your business along the wayIf you’re facing a business dispute, this survival guide will give you the clarity and tools you need to make an informed decision.📌 How to Contact Rich Sierra:📧 Email: Rich@RichSierra.com🌐 Website: https://www.FloridaSmallBusinessLegalCenter.com📱 Facebook: @FSBLEGAL📺 YouTube: @RichardSierra🐦 Twitter/X: @Rich_Sierra📸 Instagram: @FSBLEGAL💼 Digital Business Card: https://poplme.co/hash/Qd9D1azj/1/s📘 Business SOS! Eight Common Legal Mistakes Business Owners Make and How to Avoid Them is available on Amazon, Barnes & Noble, or ask for it at your local bookstore.

Thinking about filing a lawsuit? Before you head to court, you need to understand the real challenges, risks, and strategies behind suing someone. In this episode of the Business SOS! podcast, Rich Sierra, business attorney and host, breaks down everything business owners need to know when considering legal action.You’ll learn:⚖️ The hidden costs of suing someone (and how to budget realistically)⚖️ The emotional toll lawsuits take on business owners and teams⚖️ Key steps to prepare before you file a case⚖️ Common mistakes that can sink your lawsuit before it even begins⚖️ Practical tips to survive the process—and protect your business along the wayIf you’re facing a business dispute, this survival guide will give you the clarity and tools you need to make an informed decision.📌 How to Contact Rich Sierra:📧 Email: Rich@RichSierra.com🌐 Website: https://www.FloridaSmallBusinessLegalCenter.com📱 Facebook: @FSBLEGAL📺 YouTube: @RichardSierra🐦 Twitter/X: @Rich_Sierra📸 Instagram: @FSBLEGAL💼 Digital Business Card: https://poplme.co/hash/Qd9D1azj/1/s📘 Business SOS! Eight Common Legal Mistakes Business Owners Make and How to Avoid Them is available on Amazon, Barnes & Noble, or ask for it at your local bookstore.