S13 E13: Smells Like Money Podcast: Stop Exposing Yourself

In this eye-opening episode, Suzan Chin-Taylor sits down with Van Carlson, founder and CEO of SRA 831(b) Admin, to discuss an often-overlooked yet powerful strategy that business owners can use to manage risk and build long-term wealth: the 831(b) plan. Titled “Stop Exposing Yourself,” this episode dives into the financial vulnerabilities that many small to mid-sized businesses unknowingly face—and how to shield against them with a smarter risk mitigation framework.

Van breaks down what 831(b) plans are, how they differ from traditional insurance, and why most companies—especially in high-risk sectors like wastewater, construction, and environmental services—are unknowingly exposed to revenue disruptions, litigation, and regulatory risk.

If you’ve ever asked yourself how to better prepare for the unexpected, reduce your tax exposure, or create a reserve for non-traditional risks, this episode is for you.

Host: Suzan Chin-Taylor | Guest: Van Carlson

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Key Discussion Points:

💡 What an 831(b) plan is—and how it empowers business owners to self-insure against unforeseen risks.
📉 The danger of relying solely on commercial insurance and how that leaves businesses vulnerable.
🛡️ Examples of revenue interruption scenarios not covered by traditional insurance (like pandemics, labor strikes, and supply chain breakdowns).
💰 How the 831(b) plan also serves as a wealth-building and tax-deferral tool.
📊 Why businesses with recurring revenue streams and less than $100M in annual revenue are ideal candidates.
🚨 What business owners risk by not taking action—and how to start protecting your business today.

Notable Quote from Van:

“Most small to mid-sized businesses think they’re covered by insurance until they go to make a claim—and find out they’re not.”

Contact Information:

Van Carlson

Websites: 831b.com

Email: van@831b.com

LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/vancarlson/

Conclusion:

In this episode, Suzan Chin-Taylor and Van Carlson shed light on a critical blind spot for many business owners—the hidden risks that aren’t covered by traditional insurance. Through the lens of the 831(b) plan, Van presents a compelling case for why proactive risk management is essential for long-term business survival and wealth preservation. The conversation offers actionable insights for entrepreneurs in high-risk sectors to stop exposing themselves financially and start taking control with smarter, more flexible coverage options.

💡 Until next time—keep innovating, stay strategic, and keep it flowing! 🚀

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Don’t forget to subscribe to the Smells Like Money Podcast for more insights and innovations in the wastewater industry. Follow us on creativeraven.com/podcast-episodes for updates and more episodes.

I hope you find this episode as informative and as exciting as we have.

Please let us know your thoughts about the episode!

Connect with Suzan Chin-Taylor, host of The DooDoo Diva’s Smells Like Money Podcast:

Website: www.creativeraven.com | https://thetuitgroup.com/

LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/creativeraven/

Email: raven@creativeraven.com

Telephone: +1 760-217-8010

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https://creativeraven.com/smells-like-money-podcast/

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