Unmitigated is a podcast that brings to light the hidden risks business owners and entrepreneurs take every day, that may not be covered by their traditional insurance. We sit down with industry experts to talk about how you can avoid crises and what to do when they happen.
Paying More, Getting Less: Why Businesses Are Turning to Captives
In this episode of the Unmitigated podcast, host Van Carlson sits down with Stephanie Forbes, commercial insurance expert and risk advisor, to break down what’s happening in today’s traditional insurance market. The conversation explores why premiums are increasing while coverage is tightening, how exclusions and underwriting changes are impacting business owners, and the role reinsurance plays in rising costs. Stephanie shares insight from her decades in the industry and explains how alternative risk strategies like group captives and self-insurance models can help qualified businesses take greater control. Together, they discuss what makes a company a strong candidate and why proactive risk management matters more than ever.
27 Jan 2026
AI in Action: How Business Owners Can Adopt Artificial Intelligence Without the Risk
In this episode of the Unmitigated podcast, host Van Carlson sits down with Joe Davis, Technology Director at SRA 831(b) Admin, to demystify artificial intelligence for small to mid-sized business owners.
24 Dec 2025
Modernizing the CPA Relationship - Tax Planning and Smarter Business Decisions
Host Van Carlson welcomes Brian Van Camp to explore how businesses can rethink and modernize their relationship with CPAs.
25 Aug 2025
Mastering Mergers & Acquisitions: Legal Strategies for a Successful Deal
In this episode of Unmitigated, host Van Carlson talks with Michael Carr, Partner at Perkins Coie, about how business owners can prepare for and navigate the high-stakes world of mergers and acquisitions. From due diligence to deal structure, Michael shares key legal insights to protect value, avoid pitfalls, and ensure a smooth transition, while managing risks traditional insurance doesn’t cover.
17 Jul 2025
Building Business Resilience: Risk Management Strategies for Uncertain Times
In this episode of Unmitigated, host Van Carlson welcomes Joe Anderson, Principal of Fortify Risk Management, for a candid conversation about how businesses can proactively defend against volatility and unexpected setbacks. Together, they explore the evolving landscape of risk, why traditional insurance models often fall short, and how 831(b) plans offer a strategic edge for long-term stability. Joe shares insights from his experience helping business owners identify hidden vulnerabilities, fortify operations, and build resilience through intentional planning and alternative risk strategies.
24 Jun 2025
The Power of Structured Leadership Development for Business Owners
Host Van Carlson interviews David Spann about structured leadership development, revealing how peer groups and diverse perspectives help business owners grow with intention and accountability.
21 May 2025
Building Systems, Not Bottlenecks: The EOS approach to sustainable growth
Host Van Carlson interviews Jared Maybon, an EOS implementer, who highlights how implementing the Entrepreneurial Operating System transforms organizational chaos into clarity and supports sustainable growth.
15 Apr 2025
HR Risk Management: Supporting Your Team, Protecting Your Business
In this episode of Unmitigated, host Van Carlson sits down with Stephen Cilley, Founder and Chairman of Ataraxis, to unpack the often-overlooked risks in HR and how they can impact the bottom line. From onboarding and employee handbooks to wrongful termination and EPLI claims, Van and Stephen explore the complexities of today’s employment landscape—especially for companies operating in multiple states. With a blend of real-world examples and practical advice, they highlight how partnering with a proactive PEO can mitigate liability, strengthen company culture, and even improve employee retention. Tune in to learn how risk management and HR are more connected than you think—and why getting it wrong can cost more than you realize.
12 Feb 2025
Closing the Coverage Gap in Agribusiness
In this episode of Unmitigated, host Van Carlson welcomes crop insurance expert Kevin Cantrell to discuss how agribusiness operators can better protect their operations. They dive into the intricacies of crop insurance, the gaps in coverage, and how captives can provide innovative risk mitigation strategies. With a shared passion for agriculture and risk management, Van and Kevin explore how SRA 831(b) Admin is expanding its focus on agribusiness clients. Tune in to learn how to maximize protection, ensure financial stability, and navigate the evolving landscape of agricultural insurance.
26 Dec 2024
Advanced Estate Tax Planning
In this episode of The Unmitigated Podcast, Van Carlson dives into the intricacies of advanced estate tax planning with special guest Tyson Ferney from the Norden Group. Discover how business owners can navigate complex tax strategies to preserve wealth, mitigate risks, and secure their legacies. Whether you’re exploring estate planning for the first time or looking to refine your approach, this conversation offers actionable insights and strategies tailored for business owners.
31 Oct 2024
Safeguarding Your Business in the Age of Cyber Threats
Host Van Carlson sits down with Mike Scheumack, Chief Innovation Officer at IDIQ, for Cybersecurity Awareness Month, exploring essential cybersecurity practices that every business should know. Together, they unpack proactive strategies to prevent cyberattacks, effective response plans for breaches, and practical steps for minimizing damage. Learn how a solid approach to cybersecurity can keep your business resilient against digital threats.
For more on IDIQ:
Website - https://www.identityiq.com/
Instagram - @IdentityIQOfficial
X - @IdentityIQ
19 Sept 2024
When and How to Scale Your Finance Department
Host Van Carlson welcomes Brandon Kordower, Founder and CEO of Aura Accounting Solutions, to discuss the key financial decisions every growing business faces. Brandon, who started AURA in 2017 to guide scaling businesses with strategic financial expertise, shares his insights on when to bring in a bookkeeper, controller, or CFO. They dive into topics like the often-overlooked value of a strong finance department, the right time and method for investing in it, and the choice between cash and accrual accounting. This conversation sheds light on navigating the financial challenges that come with business growth.
21 Aug 2024
Buy/Sell Agreements: Pitfalls & Considerations
Attorney Brad Dixon joins us to discuss the essentials of buy/sell agreements. We’ll cover the purpose and structure of these agreements, including typical clauses and important considerations for business owners. Brad will also highlight common issues to watch out for, spousal considerations, and potential pitfalls. Additionally, we'll explore different approaches to funding a buy/sell agreement, offering a practical guide to help you navigate this important aspect of business planning.
12 Aug 2024
The 831(b) Institue: How Lobbying and Public Affairs Efforts Can Change a Tax Code
In this episode, we delve into the ongoing struggle between 831(b) Plans and the efforts for legislative oversight in Congress featuring two integral members of the 831(b) Institute, Maggi Lazarus, Counsel at Barnes & Thornburg LLP, and Peter Dawson, CEO of Dawson LLC. Together, they explore the intricacies of lobbying efforts and tax law, how these initiatives are shaping the 831(b) landscape, and the potential future of legislation affecting these entities.
17 Jun 2024
Pilot: Introduction to SRA and the 831(b) Tax Code
Curious about what an 831(b) Plan is? Also known as micro captive insurance, this tool helps businesses set aside tax-deferred funds for risks that traditional insurance does not cover. From warranties to legal disputes to third-party business interruption, learn what’s not covered and what you can do.
Reach and audience
Public platform figures. Ratings count people who left a rating, not total listeners.
Apple Podcasts (US)
5.0 / 5
5 ratings
Spotify
5.0 / 5
6 ratings
Podcast Authority Score: 13 / 100
A composite of feed quality, social presence, YouTube performance and engagement. Read the methodology.
Quality
7
Social presence
0
YouTube
0
Engagement
51
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