George Curbelo: Navigating the World of Business

Our PRO meetings always shed light on various facets of the business world, and our recent meeting was no different. George Curbelo, an acclaimed business education speaker,  provided some invaluable advice by getting the room talking and telling their stories. Here's a snippet of the advice we gave eachother:

• Working with Integrity: Always choose to work with those you can genuinely trust and admire.
• Avoiding the Unnecessary: 'Cut out the crazy', he emphasized. Streamline processes and cut unnecessary noise.
• Retaining Individuality: "Never play another man's game, and never let someone else dictate your personality."
• Appreciating Challenges: It's essential to "enjoy and honor the struggle."
• Value of Persistence: George stressed the importance of "consistency."
• Facing Hardships Head-On: He encouraged everyone to "embrace the suck."
• Document Everything: "Put it in writing," is a classic advice that never grows old.
• Prioritize Precision: Giving attention to detail can make or break your business.
• Upholding Quality: It's all about maintaining high standards.

The Legacy of Mary K. with Jane Obergfell

Jane Obergfell, a representative at Mary K, enlightened us about the brand's core values. Jane described that the real essence of Mary K lies in promoting healthy skin, with makeup being just an enhancement. The company provides an enormous support system for its representatives, including mentoring, to ensure they are set for success. The longevity of Mary K in the industry is a testament to their fantastic products and unparalleled team support, backed by their 100% satisfaction guarantee.

For those unfamiliar, Mary K is not just another cosmetics company. Founded by Mary Kay Ash in 1963, the brand has always been about empowering women. From its inception, Mary Kay Ash envisioned an avenue where women could achieve personal and financial success, regardless of the barriers society placed before them.

One aspect that truly sets Mary K apart is its mentoring program. As Jane explained, becoming a Mary K representative is not merely about selling products. It's about joining a sisterhood. New representatives are paired with seasoned mentors, ensuring that every 'Mary K lady' has the guidance and support she needs to thrive. It’s a network that uplifts and educates, fostering both professional and personal growth.

Their support system is unparalleled, echoing sentiments that Mary Kay Ash herself might have shared. The longevity of the brand is a testament to its commitment to both quality products and its representatives. Mary K takes pride in its 100% satisfaction guarantee, a bold promise in today’s dynamic cosmetic landscape. And when they say 100%, they mean it. All reimbursements and support are directly handled by the company, emphasizing their dedication to both customers and their team.

In the world of cosmetics, trends come and go. But as Jane so eloquently highlighted, the legacy of Mary K, rooted in empowerment, quality, and unparalleled support, continues to stand tall.

Vito Sernas: Journey from a Handyman to PEO Advocate

Our next speaker, Vito Sernas, shared his intriguing journey, beginning as a worker for a general contractor under his uncle. This experience provided him a broad understanding of various trades. Transitioning from a handyman, he eventually started and successfully ran his General Contracting company. His move to Florida made him specialize in painting and cabinetry.

However, it wasn't all smooth sailing. Vito faced challenges, especially with employee turnover and changing laws. His search for a solution led him to PEOs.

What is a PEO?

A Professional Employer Organization (PEO) is a firm that allows companies to outsource their HR tasks, including employee benefits, payroll, and compliance. Vito became such a staunch advocate of PEOs that he eventually shifted his career towards educating businesses about their advantages.

Prosperity PEO differentiates itself in the PEO industry by catering specifically to businesses with 5 to 25 employees. Their hands-on approach ensures every client has a dedicated representative. With a team of highly experienced professionals, they provide personalized and effective solutions.

Britney Gold: Dressing for Success

Britney Gold from Get Food Therapy kickstarted our second meeting with an engaging discussion on the significance of dressing appropriately. Here are her key takeaways:

• Self-Presentation Matters: How you present yourself reflects how you will handle business.
• Industry Appropriate Attire: Ensure you fit in while standing out.
• Subtle Messages: Non-verbal cues play a pivotal role in perception.
• Classic Over Flashy: Solid colors and well-fitting clothes can never go wrong.
• Modern Dressing Trends: Ties might be out, but layers are making waves.

Demystifying Probate with Chad Thomas Orsatti

Chad, from Orsatti & Associates, P.A., elucidated the intricate world of Probate. In simple terms, Probate is a court-supervised process of authenticating a deceased person's will and distributing assets. There are various forms, such as formal probate, which might take 6 months to a year, and expedited probate, generally spanning 3 to 4 months. Not all assets require probate, and Chad meticulously walked us through each step of the process.

What is Probate?

Probate is a court-supervised process that involves authenticating a deceased person's will, identifying their assets, paying off any debts and taxes, and distributing the remaining assets to the beneficiaries mentioned in the will.

Florida Probate Explained

In Florida, as in many states, probate is necessary to ensure that a deceased person's assets are distributed according to their will, or if no will exists, according to Florida's intestacy laws. The process ensures all creditors are paid, and the remaining assets are distributed to the rightful heirs.

Asset Distribution in Probate

Asset distribution is a significant component of the probate process. Once all the legitimate debts, taxes, and expenses have been paid off from the estate, the remaining assets are distributed to the beneficiaries as per the will. If the deceased did not leave behind a will, the assets would be distributed according to Florida's intestacy laws, which typically prioritize spouses, children, and then other relatives.

Formal Probate vs. Expedited Probate

• Formal Probate: This process is typically utilized for more complex estates. In Florida, formal probate generally takes anywhere from 6 months to a year, sometimes even longer if there are disputes among heirs or challenges to the will.
• Expedited Probate (Summary Administration): For smaller estates or those without complications, Florida offers an expedited probate process, known as summary administration. This procedure is usually quicker, often wrapping up within 3 to 4 months.

When is Probate Not Applicable?

Probate might not be necessary if:

• The deceased person had established a living trust.
• All assets were held jointly with another individual, and they pass automatically to the co-owner.
• The assets have designated beneficiaries, such as life insurance policies or retirement accounts.
• The total value of the estate is below a certain threshold, making it eligible for a simpler process.

Steps of the Probate Process

1. Filing of a Petition: Start the probate process by filing a petition with the appropriate probate court.
2. Notification to Heirs and Creditors: Once probate opens, heirs and creditors are usually notified.
3. Appointment of an Executor: If there's a will, the court will confirm the executor named in it. Without a will, the court will appoint an administrator.
4. Taking Inventory of the Estate: The executor/administrator identifies, takes inventory, and appraises the deceased's assets.
5. Payment of Debts: Using assets from the estate, the executor/administrator settles any debts, claims, or taxes owed.
6. Distribution of Assets: After settling debts, the remaining assets are distributed to the heirs as outlined in the will or as per intestacy laws if no will exists.
7. Closing the Estate: Finally, the executor/administrator files paperwork with the court, indicating that assets have been distributed and the estate can be closed.

Probate can seem daunting, but with a clear understanding and the right guidance, navigating the process becomes more manageable. Whether you're planning your estate or dealing with a loved one's assets, it's crucial to be informed about the nuances of probate, especially in specific jurisdictions like Florida.

Schedule a 1 to 1 with Chad to better understand your estate planning..

Take the Next Step

For further insights, connections, and networking opportunities, we invite you to RSVP to our next meeting. Join us and take your professional journey to new heights!