Episode Summary: In this engaging interview, Due Diligence Project founder Alex Sonkin speaks with elite CPA Laura Dohanes about her journey and approach to tax planning. Laura shares insights from her extensive audit experience and how she helps clients navigate complex tax scenarios, particularly during business exits. She reveals how her firm generated over $11.3 million in tax savings for clients in 2023 alone.

Key Topics Covered:

• Tax Planning Philosophy: How Laura developed a passion for tax strategy and her direct, transparent approach with clients
• Business Exit Expertise: Why Laura considers business exits "the most beautiful dance between tax, legal and investments"
• Client Relationships: The importance of building trust and understanding client goals before recommending tax strategies
• Tax Savings Impact: How Laura delivered $11.375 million in tax savings to clients in 2023
• Due Diligence Approach: The value of collective expertise and peer review when vetting tax strategies
• Virtual Family Office: How the right team of advisors can create substantial value, particularly during business exits
• Elite Tax Advising: The significant difference between average and elite tax professionals in delivering client value

Featured Quotes: "I think my life's journey is tied to the business owner and those are the people that I serve the most... Give yourself the benefit of the doubt, expand your mind just a little bit so you can have a basic understanding before you dismiss something." - Laura Dohanes

"The difference between the top 0.01% of CPAs and the average CPA is the same difference as the top basketball players who are at the NBA all-star game than the guys you see at the pickup games at the YMCA." - Alex Sonkin

Resource

• https://duediligenceproject.com/

This episode highlights how experienced tax professionals can deliver extraordinary value by combining specialized knowledge with a relationship-focused approach, particularly for business owners preparing for major transactions.