Alisha Kowalski has been passionate about empowering others to lead happier, more fulfilling lives as a life and happiness coach. With over 15 years of experience, she recently took a bold step forward, by leveraging FINSYNC’s AI Assistant, Fynn, to transform her vision into a thriving business. 

 

A New Approach to Coaching

When Alisha joined the CO.STARTERS Core training, she was introduced to Fynn and the CO.STARTERS Canvas, a revolutionary tool designed to help entrepreneurs transform their ideas into an actionable business roadmap. Initially skeptical, Alisha quickly realized how powerful the tool was. “Using the CO.STARTERS Canvas opened up my program to be more than I thought it could be,” she shared. “It projected me forward in a whole different way.”

Alisha had always envisioned in-person workshops and small group sessions as the foundation of her coaching business. However, with the support of Fynn, she expanded her offerings to include online Zoom groups. “Just yesterday, I launched an online group, and it’s already helping me connect with more people than I imagined.”

 

 

Turning a Vision Into Tangible Success

The AI Canvas provided Alisha with structure while sparking a new business opportunity. “I’ve been working on a workbook for emotional inventory journaling for years, but the timelines and accountability within the CO.STARTERS group pushed me to finally publish it,” Alisha explained. The workbook, now available on Amazon, has become an integral part of her coaching program. “The AI Canvas showed me how I could distribute the workbook and make it a revenue stream, all with minimal cost.”

 

A Community of Support

Alisha credits the CO.STARTERS community and FINSYNC’s tools for helping her overcome challenges. “It’s hard to sell something intangible like coaching,” she said. “But the support and ideas I received helped me refine my approach and realize the value of investing in myself.”

 

Looking Ahead

As Alisha continues to grow her business, she’s eager to explore the recent  Business Plan product that FINSYNC just released. “If I can input everything I know about my business and have the AI create a professional plan, it will save me so much time and allow me to focus on helping others.”

For Alisha, the journey with CO.STARTERS and Fynn has been transformative. “It’s amazing to think about how far I’ve come. These tools and this community have truly helped me bring my ideas to life.”

 

 

About FINSYNC

FINSYNC, with Fynn as your 24/7 AI Assistant, is the leading platform for going from business dreams to financial success. From high-growth startups to main-street businesses, Fynn transforms ideas into actionable business plans and delivers real-time insights, enabling entrepreneurs to save time and focus on growth. Fynn and FINSYNC integrate essential tools like cash flow management, payroll, and accounting into one powerful business platform while connecting entrepreneurs with local support organizations, financial institutions, investors, and community resources to accelerate success.

By fostering a connected entrepreneurial ecosystem, FINSYNC and Fynn empower small businesses to grow faster, amplify local resources, and strengthen their communities—driving economic growth for all.

Shakhan Kelly, a passionate entrepreneur and skilled photographer, discovered her path to success with the help of FINSYNC’s AI Assistant, Fynn, which she used to craft her business canvas. Drawing on a unique blend of artistry and technical expertise developed during her years as a civil engineer, Shakhan now runs her own business, Shakhan Kelly Photography. Specializing in sports action shots, headshots, portraits, and corporate events, her story showcases how the right tools can transform business dreams into thriving realities.

 

Getting Started with Fynn

Shakhan first encountered Fynn through FINSYNC’s Starter Tools. While exploring the CO.STARTERS Canvas platform, she quickly discovered how intuitive the design was. “When I initially opened it, I skipped over defining my business idea. Once I backtracked and started inputting details about my business problem and customer, everything began to click,” Shakhan recalls, highlighting how Fynn helped her organize her thoughts and bring her vision to life.

Her challenge was clear: many business owners struggle to find high-quality, personalized images that authentically represent their brand. With the help of Fynn, Shakhan refined her ideas, turning her insights into a professional roadmap that clearly articulated her value proposition.

 

A Game-Changer for Entrepreneurs

Shakhan appreciated how Fynn guided her through the process with tailored prompts and insightful suggestions. “I love how AI made everything sound more professional while still reflecting my vision,” she says. “The detailed suggestions helped me think critically about aspects of my business that I hadn’t fully considered before.”

By leveraging AI, Shakhan transformed a rough outline into a polished plan, saving time and ensuring her business was built on a solid foundation. For someone who admits that writing isn’t her favorite task, Fynn became an invaluable partner, streamlining the process and giving her confidence.

 

A Lifelong Passion, Reignited

Shakhan’s love for photography began in high school, where she majored in visual arts at the High School of Art & Design in New York City. Despite pursuing a successful 16-year career in civil engineering, she never put down her camera. After moving to Ohio, Shakhan decided to follow her passion full-time, blending her creative vision with her technical expertise to create stunning visuals for her clients.

From sports photography to corporate events, her work stands out for its vibrant authenticity and attention to detail. With Fynn’s help, Shakhan was able to streamline the business side of her work, giving her more time to focus on what she loves most: capturing unforgettable moments.

 

FINSYNC: A Partner Every Step of the Way

As a CO.STARTERS Core graduate, Shakhan found more than just AI tools with FINSYNC’s all in one platform. It provided her with a supportive community and resources specifically tailored to her unique needs. By integrating AI-powered solutions with local expertise, FINSYNC enabled her to create a business that reflects her passion and values.

As she looks to the future, Shakhan plans to expand her services while continuing to rely on FINSYNC CO.STARTERS to optimize her operations. “The tools make it so much easier to focus on what truly matters, delivering quality work to my clients and spending time with my family.”

 

About FINSYNC 

FINSYNC, with Fynn as your 24/7 AI Assistant, is the leading platform for going from business dreams to financial success. From high-growth startups to main-street businesses, Fynn transforms ideas into actionable business plans and delivers real-time insights, enabling entrepreneurs to save time and focus on growth. Fynn and FINSYNC integrate essential tools like cash flow management, payroll, and accounting into one powerful business platform while connecting entrepreneurs with local support organizations, financial institutions, investors, and community resources to accelerate success.

By fostering a connected entrepreneurial ecosystem, FINSYNC and Fynn empower small businesses to grow faster, amplify local resources, and strengthen their communities—driving economic growth for all.

When Kimberly Sales logged into FINSYNC’s AI Assistant Fynn, she had no idea it would transform her cherished family recipe into a growing business opportunity. “I’ve never used AI before,” Kimberly admitted. “So when I logged in to help me fill out the paper canvas I was working on, I was amazed at all the information that populated for me. The more details I gave, the better the results—it was awesome!”

 

Kimberly’s business, The Pound, is built on a lemon pound cake recipe passed down from her mother. “My mom taught me how to bake this cake when I was 11 years old, and everyone loved it. When she got older, she gave me her KitchenAid mixer. After she passed away, baking that cake brought back so many memories, not just for me but for others. People would share stories about her while enjoying the cake. It became something special, so much so that people would fight over it at gatherings,” she said with a laugh.

 

Initially, Kimberly struggled with the practical side of turning her passion into a business. “I wasn’t charging what the cakes were worth because I didn’t know how to price them. Using the AI Canvas gave me the solutions I needed. It put my story together and created a business plan that saved me so much time and stress. It even highlighted challenges I hadn’t considered, like identifying potential problems for a cake business.”

 

Kimberly credits the tool for opening her eyes to new opportunities. “It helped me think outside the box. It suggested ideas like selling at farmers’ markets and corporate events. For the first time ever, I realized this could be bigger than I thought it could be.”

 

As she fine-tunes her plan, Kimberly continues to rely on Starter Tools like Fynn to adapt to her evolving vision. “The feature to edit sections as my business grows is invaluable. The process is easy, and it allows me to keep refining my business.”

 

Looking ahead, Kimberly dreams of using her success to pursue another passion. “Eventually, The Pound will allow me to leave my corporate job and focus on teaching young kids, something I’ve always wanted to do.”

 

FINSYNC and Fynn, help entrepreneurs like Kimberly turn cherished ideas into actionable business plans. Whether you’re starting with just a dream or ready to grow, FINSYNC equips you with the resources to succeed, all in one seamless platform.

 

Discover how you can take your first step toward business success with tools tailored to your journey. Start your story today.

 

FINSYNC: Empowering Entrepreneurs, Strengthening Communities

FINSYNC is revolutionizing how entrepreneurs, from high-growth startups to main-street businesses, start, grow, and succeed. FINSYNC is the one platform that connects the dots in the fragmented entrepreneurial ecosystem, supported 24/7 by Fynn, your AI Assistant. Fynn empowers entrepreneurs to transform ideas into actionable plans like a CO.STARTERS Canvas or Business Plan, matches entrepreneurs with local programs and experts, and gains real-time guidance every step of the way. FINSYNC’s integrated Business Platform streamlines operations, including cash flow management, payroll, and accounting, while seamlessly connecting entrepreneurs to local support organizations, investors, financial institutions, and professionals. Together, FINSYNC and Fynn foster a connected ecosystem where businesses grow faster and entrepreneurs gain more time to focus on what matters most, and communities prosper—driving economic growth for all.

 

In this FINSYNC Spotlight Interview, we sit down with Ali Megan Wagner, the owner of Pottinger Realty Property Management. Based in Southern Arizona, Ali manages a thriving real estate brokerage that spans multiple towns, from Tucson to Nogales, specializing in residential property transactions and management. 

 

With a passion for helping people buy and sell homes, Ali’s journey into property management began when she took over her Aunt Nancy’s business. This led her to seek an efficient accounting platform to keep her operations seamless. Here, Ali shares her inspiring story, the challenges of running a small business, and how FINSYNC has played a pivotal role in her success.

 

Tell me about your company and what inspired you to start.

 

My business is real estate, and I own a brokerage in Southern Arizona called Pottinger Realty Property Management. I cover many different towns, from Tucson South to Nogales. I help people buy and sell Residential Properties. 

 

I also manage properties. When my Aunt Nancy, who was in real estate, decided to retire, I took over her property management business. As a result, I really needed a good accounting platform to keep everything organized.

 

What prompted you to start using FINSYNC?

 

What attracted me to FINSYNC was primarily the strong endorsement from WaFd Bank. When I opened my brokerage company in the fall of 2022, I was at the bank to open my real estate accounts. I was first at the WaFd Nogales Branch, talking about what I needed for my accounting. They, as well as two other branches, all suggested FINSYNC.

 

What about the FINSYNC Platform that attracted you to it?

 

I just hit it off with the people that I was talking to at FINSYNC, which means a lot to me because I’m a big communicator. I like to learn things. What I needed was complex to set up because I’m not selling goods. I don’t have an inventory that people are buying. 

 

Money flows through my business, so I have a lot of moving parts, but they all have to connect, and that was probably one of the biggest challenges. However, FINSYNC’s personal approach and its platform’s capabilities to handle my complex tasks made FINSYNC a perfect choice for me.

 

What are some of the challenges you’ve faced as a small business owner?

 

Property management requires a lot of time, paperwork, and accounting. I manage a little over 50 properties. There are a lot of ins and outs, and my accounts need to equal zero every month. I just jumped into the deep end and went for it.

 

Initially, I used QuickBooks, which was what my aunt used, but she had no idea how to help me with the latest version of QuickBooks Online. It was a lot to learn, their customer service wasn’t all that great, and it required entering data multiple times. Eventually, the price doubled, and I realized that I just needed more from a platform. 

 

While switching platforms initially posed its own set of challenges, what truly impressed me was the extraordinary level of customer service FINSYNC provided during the initial setup—a level of support I hadn’t experienced with QuickBooks. This personalized attention, coupled with the ability to discuss and troubleshoot issues directly with FINSYNC representatives, proved to be a better fit for the unique demands of my business.

 

What are the biggest benefits your business has experienced using FINSYNC?

 

What I really love about the company, one hundred percent, hands down, is your customer service, and they have just been extremely helpful. 

 

They are very supportive and take the time to listen to my needs. Then they try to help improve things, or maybe there is something that I’m not fully understanding; they take the time to educate me, teach me, and walk me through it step by step. I am able to move forward, and that’s the big thing. 

 

How does having FINSYNC connected to your accounts make your business life easier?

 

Your Onboarding team really helped me with my journal entries for money that’s being held to roll over into the next month. Which was wonderful because it was driving me crazy. I was wondering how I could get rid of this. What do I do with this? Someone said, “It’s okay, we’re gonna talk about journal entries,” and that was a big lifesaver for me, especially when I’m reconciling every month. That was really great.

 

How FINSYNC Can Help

 

There are 3 primary ways FINSYNC helps business owners. (1) CO.STARTERS courses through FINSYNC can help turn your business idea or side hustle into a thriving business. (2) On our website, you can also apply for a business bank account. (3) In addition, the FINSYNC software allows you to run your business on One Platform – invoice customers, pay bills, process payroll, automate accounting, and manage cash flow. To learn more about how we can help your business start, scale, and succeed, contact us today.

The selection of the right financial tools can significantly impact the efficiency and success of a company. This sentiment is echoed in our conversation with John Soto, a small business owner who has firsthand experience with the advantages of incorporating FINSYNC into his business operations at Athena Behavioral Treatment Center.

 

John and his wife, Nydia, run ABTCVA or Athena Behavioral Treatment Center in Gainsville, Virginia. Their organization is dedicated to assisting children with autism. John and Nydia’s journey, which began with a personal recognition of the demand for specialized services, has been marked by an array of challenges and achievements.

 

What prompted you to start using FINSYNC?

I opened a business checking account with Fulton Bank in Manassas, Virginia. FINSYNC was recommended and decided to go with you.

 

What about the FINSYNC Platform attracted you?

It is pretty much all in one place, including payroll. This was important to me to find a platform where I could also do payroll, so this was a good option. It is also very user-friendly, which was a plus. 

 

Tell me about your company and what inspired you to start.

We have a company that provides behavioral health services for kids with autism. My wife and I realized there was a big need for kids to have these services. My wife is a board-certified behavioral analyst. She had experience managing people from prior military and government work, so we decided to do it on our own and launch our own company. So far, so good. 

 

What are some of the challenges you’ve faced as a small business owner?

Staffing can be a challenge. It is difficult to find people that have a good work ethic. Since COVID, there are a lot of people who want to stay home and don’t want to work. We have been lucky to have found good employees, and we are staffed, but we always need more people, and it can be a struggle to find the right fit. 

 

What’s the best thing about being a small business owner? 

Being your own boss is great. Grabbing an idea and knowing it is yours from start to finish. Whether it fails or succeeds is on you. You have to work hard, and you see the rewards from the hard work you put in. 

 

What are the biggest benefits your business has experienced using FINSYNC?

Everything is right there on one platform. This helps us with our reports. The payroll is set up to make sure that all of our employees are paid in addition, our bills are taken care of so we can stay in business.

 

I have used your customer service. They have always helped me out with any questions I have or any issues that come up. They have always been there for us.

 

What advice do you have for those thinking about starting their own business?

Do a lot of research. Make sure you know what you are getting into. Knowing what to expect is essential to your success. Passion is also important, but it might not be the right area to open a business even though you love it. So, that is why the research part is just as important as loving what you are doing. 

 

Also, find good support. Locate a bank that is going to support you. If you need payroll for your business, make sure you go with the right company to support you when you need it.  

 

FINSYNC allows you to run your business on One Platform. You can send and receive payments, process payroll, automate accounting, and manage cash flow. To learn more about how we can help your business start, scale, and succeed, contact us today.

 

Heather, the owner of the successful accounting firm Optimum Accounting, knows how crucial effective client management is. But she’s not just any accountant. Heather is a champion for small businesses, deeply aware of their need to master cash flow management. She understands this is often the key to whether a new business thrives or folds. With this in mind, she’s always looking for the best tools to help her clients succeed. 

That is why she’s added FINSYNC, an all-in-one accounting platform, to her toolbox. It is just another way she’s committed to helping businesses flourish.

As we dive deeper into her interview, we will explore Heather’s journey, her decision-making process, and the transformative role that FINSYNC plays in successfully managing her accounting firm.

 

What do you enjoy the most about being an Accountant?

I like taking care of people; it is in my nature. Saving these businesses from themselves is an expertise I value. I also enjoy complicated numbers and troubleshooting big problems. 

 

What is the biggest challenge you face with your business?

My biggest challenge is industry-wide when owners don’t listen to their bookkeepers and accountants, do what they want, and expect us to clean it all up. Or the client who hasn’t filed taxes in five years can also be a challenge. But we work through them, and it is never as bad as what people fear.

 

What is the biggest challenge your business customers/clients face today?

Most clients are feeling the pinch of inflation, especially my clients who are in the food industry. The prices for food supplies are just ridiculous right now, and they are really feeling it. High prices are affecting everyone, though. Cash flow is a big problem with many of my clients, and everyone is getting creative.

 

How did you hear about FINSYNC?

I became a WaFd Bank customer back when they provided PPP loans. I had established a relationship with Robin and sent 30 of my clients to WaFd. When I was introduced to FINSYNC, I was at my wit’s end with Quickbooks. Now, I just referred my third client to the FINSYNC platform. 

 

How many business customers/clients do you have that are using the FINSYNC platform?

Three and two of them run payroll. I plan to migrate at least 12-15 clients to FINSYNC by the end of the year. 

I appreciate that FINSYNC helps listen to what the end users see. Sometimes, coders have grand ideas that don’t materialize well in practice.

 

What feature of FINSYNC do you find most helpful for your client’s businesses?

One of my clients is an electrician, and once he got set up, the job costing tasks made sense. I appreciate that if we have to run the Payroll job costing, we can, but if we need to run it on the fly and just put in 80 hours, we can do that too. I appreciate that FINSYNC handles all of the taxes and reporting automatically.

I also appreciate your local customer service. I don’t like it when a support agent sounds like they are reading from a script. That doesn’t happen at FINSYNC. These are the major plus points for myself and my clients. 

 

In your experience, what types of businesses or industries are best suited for FINSYNC?

I can see all of the industries using FINSYNC effectively so far. 

 

In what ways do your business customers benefit from using FINSYNC?

The support has been great, and I have always been able to reach out to them for any issues that might arise. As I bring more people over, I will utilize this much more, I am sure.

The job costing feature is used and appreciated by owners from all industries.

Also, while I was in the setup process for payroll, it was so nice to be able to send your support team an email and tell them exactly where I was hung up. They are always right there to give me what I need.

 

What is one piece of advice you would give to a small business starting out today?

If you don’t know how to set up your books, invest in a bookkeeper. It is well worth the money spent to get your books set up correctly from the get-go. You will save yourself a ton of money and lots of headaches. You won’t shed so many tears. In fact, just call me. I’ll get you on the right path, teach you what you need to know, and save you from yourself. 

 

FINSYNC Accounting Partner Program

We understand accounting professionals’ critical role in a business’s success. This is why we have designed the FINSYNC Accounting Partner Program. Where a dedicated Account Manager will help you achieve your firm’s goals. FINSYNC’s platform consolidates all financial operations into an all-in-one system, ensuring smooth financial management while connecting businesses with the right financial experts. 

Diving into the banking world, especially in personal connections and digital solutions, requires a blend of empathy, knowledge, and resilience. Meet Ashley Dadje, a personal banker with WaFd Bank. Her journey with her clients is as personal as it gets. 

 

Ashley cherishes the core values of her team. Her perspective provides a unique blend of professional dedication and innovative approach. In this Spotlight Interview, we reveal the passion and principles that guide Ashley in her role, how she identifies potential partnerships, and her insights into navigating the challenges and rewards of introducing new solutions to customers. 

 

What do you enjoy the most about your job?

The impact I make in every encounter with our clients is significant. This extends from individual members to our small businesses that are expanding. As a personal banker, it’s personal. Each connection is unique, and I’m grateful for the chance to make a difference in their lives.

 

What is your favorite aspect of being a member of the WaFd team?

I love our core values at WaFd. Integrity is very important to us. When we say we will do something, we do it. If we say we won’t, we don’t. I truly respect this, right up to our CEO. He embodies the same values—humility, integrity, and respect—which I deeply admire about WaFd Bank.

 

How do you identify business owners that may be a good match for FINSYNC?

First, I ask them if they are using a banking platform for their finances. What I appreciate about your website is the comparison between FINSYNC and QuickBooks. It is truly helpful. I was especially drawn to the success stories. Reading about those who previously used QuickBooks, had unfavorable experiences, and found FINSYNC to be simpler and more affordable was enlightening.

 

What is your approach like?

I gathered the testimonials and made a list of positive experiences with FINSYNC. I was able to get our Branch Business lists of accounts from my manager as a good starting point. Initially, it was challenging because I wasn’t very familiar with the platform. However, I persisted, continued learning, and gradually built confidence. Whenever I have questions, I reach out to FINSYNC. They are always available, very knowledgeable, and respond promptly.

 

Do you think your customers struggle with other software solutions, such as QuickBooks?

I appreciate that FINSYNC provides the software platform for payments for free while QuickBooks charges. My customers not only get FINSYNC but also have the backing of WaFd Bank. It is like they are supported on all sides, much like a square.

 

What do you like best about FINSYNC?

I think FINSYNC is great! It is so simple to use. If customers want to add payroll processing or other accounting features, they just add it by clicking a button. I also love how efficient it is when it comes to your customer support team. I highly believe in FINSYNC! 

 

What can you say to other bankers who don’t know a lot about FINSYNC?

I joined as a personal banker about a year ago and had to continuously learn and adapt. In supporting businesses, both confidence and knowledge are crucial. Likewise, being proactive and willing to take initiative is equally important.

 

At first, the webinars felt like a lot of information. But I soon realized it was a decision for an individual to move past that fear and dive in. Initially, I was nervous that business owners would ask me something I didn’t know. But the aim is to introduce them to the platform, not to answer every question. We, as bankers, are the middlemen, while the FINSYNC team is the experts. My main goal is to stay in my lane and invite my customers to learn more. It is key to avoid getting too technical and, most importantly, to stay confident!

 

FINSYNC allows you to run your business on One Platform. You can send and receive payments, process payroll, automate accounting, and manage cash flow. To learn more about how we can help your business start, scale, and succeed, contact us today.

 

Banking and running a small business are often opposite sides of the same coin. Finding someone who straddles both worlds with as much passion and expertise as Travis Duran is rare. As a small business owner and a trusted banker with WaFd Bank, one of FINSYNC’s respected partner banks, Travis has a unique lens through which he views financial tools and solutions. 

 

Outside his bank, Travis and his wife run a local bakery in Arizona called Bubble & Bruja. With a name inspired by Shakespeare, their bakery captures creativity and dedication.

 

In this interview, Travis provides insights into his journey with FINSYNC as both a banker and an entrepreneur. Exploring the platform’s solutions and numerous benefits, he shares his perspective on how FINSYNC has transformed his approach to financial management for his bakery and how it can benefit other businesses.

 

How did you first hear about FINSYNC?

I was part of the initial WaFd Bank partner rollout with FINSYNC. We at WaFd were excited to get a more comprehensive strategic partnership. Integrating the invoicing, cash flow management, and other services round out the tools we don’t have on the banking side. 

 

What about the FINSYNC Platform attracted you to it?

WaFd has a lot of self-sufficient customers who are hands-on with their businesses. They start their business for a passion they might have. A common complaint is that they have to be their own accountant. They no longer have time to have dinner with their families because they are running the cash side of their company. I was instantly excited that FINSYNC could save my banking customers money and guarantee them time savings.

 

As a banker, what specific features of FINSYNC do you believe most resonate with business customers?

We have several tradespeople across the full-trade spectrum, like handyman contractors and home service workers. They struggle with their accounts receivable and ensuring their invoices have been paid. Balancing the books can be a challenge for them. 

 

Also, invoicing directly through FINSYNC and integrating those invoices directly into the cash flow management side is a big need for our customers. 

 

How does FINSYNC compare to other accounting platforms you have come across?

We have always heard complaints about QuickBooks. Knowing this was a QuickBooks Online alternative was an easy resource to tell our clients. For our small business customers, we have observed that they sometimes rely on Excel spreadsheets or handwritten notes for accounting, which can pose challenges. So, we like that FINSYNC integrates different systems into one.

 

The reporting aspect is huge as well. Being able to track to the penny where your money is going, what is owed to you, what will you owe down the road? Being able to answer these questions has been a big resource for clients. Cutting down on their paper and allowing them to ditch QuickBooks. Because there are banking systems that QuickBooks doesn’t speak effectively to, FINSYNC solves this problem.  

 

How has FINSYNC supported or enhanced your banking relationships with these businesses?

Speaking personally from the banking side, I offer FINSYNC as an alternative to QuickBooks to nearly every business client who walks through the door. 

 

In addition, my wife and I also run a side business, and FINSYNC helped us get through the holidays and attract customers outside our immediate market. An example of a success story is my own experience with my company. 

 

Tell me about your company and what inspired you to start.

Here in Arizona, bakery owners can run on cottage food laws as long as they are not selling perishable items. We got a license out of our home, got insured, and sold to farmers’ markets, B2C and B2B. There is a lot of flexibility with our local licensing.

 

My wife worked for a bakery in Phoenix, so she had more of the know-how, and I am more of a visionary. We both liked the idea of creating something new. We are both literary buffs, so “Bubble & Brujah” is based on Shakespeare’s mysticism, producing a magical play on words.

 

What are some of the challenges you’ve faced as a small business owner?

Time management was a big challenge since I am a full-time banker. Accessing a broader market outside of our friends and family was also challenging. We were successfully able to do this with the marketing experience I have. This brought its own challenges; the marketing outreach resulted in the need to accept credit card payments. We had to figure out how to accept debit and credit cards. This is where FINSYNC came in. 

 

What are the biggest benefits your business has experienced using FINSYNC? 

FINSYNC is an all-in-one platform. It links to the bank account and shows me money in and out. It shows me what is coming in; I can balance that once I see when it hits my account. It integrates easily into one. The time management and organizational benefit of keeping everything housed within one platform makes it easy to answer questions like, “What is my profitability?” or “What are our costs this month?” These are questions all small business owners should be asking themselves. 

 

With inflation being as rampant as it has been the last couple of years, FINSYNC makes it easy to actively track what is going out versus what is coming in. We were buffered from inflation since we could be more nimble to adjust what was necessary to survive. 

 

How has FINSYNC’s customer support or onboarding process been for you personally and for those you’ve invited to FINSYNC?

We have customers who have been using QuickBooks for a long time, so they bring in their information on a disk. There is no one they can talk to, and they are passed around from one phone prompt to another without resolving their issues. 

 

I have had experience with customer service on the bank side, where it is super easy to talk to our dedicated service person. I have also had experience on the customer side as well. Whenever I have an issue, there is an expert who knows how to walk me through where I need help. Even though it is a Fintech company, people are working on the backend to help those needing more hand-holding. I am one of those customers.

 

What advice do you have for those thinking about starting their own business?

It is easy to start a business here in the United States. You can be an entrepreneur if you have the tenacity and confidence to create something that people will want. 

 

Depending on what you are doing, you can make a difference. We have made wedding cakes, celebrated baby showers and sweet sixteen birthdays, etc. You get to be part of someone’s life at that moment. If you are considering starting a business, I would encourage everyone to at least try it.

 

FINSYNC allows you to run your business on One Platform. You can send and receive payments, process payroll, automate accounting, and manage cash flow. To learn more about how we can help your business start, scale, and succeed, contact us today.

In the world of entrepreneurship, stories of hard work, dedication, and perseverance often stand out. This Spotlight Interview delves into the journey of Benjamin Walker as he launched his waste distribution venture, Walker Waste.

 

Starting ambitiously with ten dumpsters and a single truck, Walker Waste has now expanded to a growing fleet, meeting rising demand. Benjamin sheds light on his journey, the role of mentors, the challenges of choosing the right financial tools, and the joy of seeing tangible results from his dedicated efforts. Join us in exploring his entrepreneurial journey and how FINSYNC played a part in his story.

 

Tell me about your company and what inspired you to start.

My company is a waste distribution company. I take dumpsters to customers, new construction homes, businesses, or renovations. I charge the customer to rent these dumpsters and for my services. 

 

I had someone like a second dad to me; he started one of these dumpster businesses back home, where I’m from. I saw first hand and knew that it would be beneficial. So I saved up my money, talked it over with my family, and decided to try it out.

 

I started with 10 dumpsters and 1 truck; now, I have 35 dumpsters and 3 trucks. I need more dumpsters every day. We are very blessed and just put our heads down and work hard. 

 

What’s the best thing about being a small business owner? 

I like the flexibility and that I can see the results of my hard work. 

 

What prompted you to start using FINSYNC?

I built a relationship with the people I bank with. They went through some of my price sheets and suggested I try FINSYNC. I thought, as long as it is easy, let’s try it!

 

What about the FINSYNC Platform that attracted you to it?

The biggest thing that attracted me to the system was I got tired if I had an issue with Quickbooks. I would call the helpdesk, and there was often a language barrier that was very difficult. I know when I called FINSYNC, I would get someone right away, usually within 30-60 seconds, and they would be in the US, probably Atlanta. As long as I can get someone to help me so that I can communicate, this is why I switched to FINSYNC.

 

What are the biggest features FINSYNC has compared to Quickbooks?  

I like the ease of us sending out the invoices. It is very easy to navigate through. We know that sending invoices is the best part of the week, and FINSYNC makes it easy. 

 

What financial institutions do you have connected to FINSYNC?

FNBC in Jonesboro. 

 

What advice do you have for those thinking about starting their own business?

Don’t be scared. I am a little timid; sometimes, I wish I wasn’t and would jump in a little deeper. Fortunately, my father-in-law is good about being aggressive. So I know when someone is willing to give you money, figure out how to take it. 

 

FINSYNC allows you to run your business on One Platform. You can send and receive payments, process payroll, automate accounting, and manage cash flow. To learn more about how we can help your business start, scale, and succeed, contact us today.

 

In today’s digital age, selecting the right financial management software is crucial for small business owners. The proper tools can streamline processes, improve financial visibility, and ultimately contribute to the growth and success of the business. However, with many options available, it can take time to determine which platform best suits your needs.

 

Two platforms stand out among the various accounting platforms: QuickBooks Online and FINSYNC. As popular choices for small business owners, both provide a range of features designed to simplify financial management. However, through a closer examination, it becomes evident that one may offer distinct advantages over the other.

 

Overview of Quickbooks Online

 

QuickBooks Online, a product of Intuit, has long been a player in the world of financial software for small businesses. It offers functionalities ranging from invoice generation to payroll management, tax filing, and expense tracking. With a long-standing presence in the market, it has become a go-to choice for many small businesses. 

 

However, users have received growing feedback about the platform’s complexity and less-than-stellar customer service. This opens up an opportunity for an emerging player to deliver a more user-friendly and supportive alternative.

 

Overview of FINSYNC

 

FINSYNC is a platform that provides an all-in-one solution for small businesses. While FINSYNC also offers features akin to QuickBooks Online, such as cloud-based invoicing, payroll, and cash flow management, it sets itself apart with its emphasis on a user-friendly interface, superior customer service, and a partner network accessible to all business owners.

 

FINSYNC’s partner network offers a space where entrepreneurs can quickly find an accountant for tax assistance, a banker for loan applications, or an insurance agent for investment protection. This positions FINSYNC as a platform that delivers financial solutions and adds extra value in a way that QuickBooks does not.

 

The FINSYNC software takes pride in being more than just a tool; it is a partner committed to the success of small businesses.

 

In the next section, we will dive deeper into why small business owners increasingly favor FINSYNC over QuickBooks Online, focusing on real experiences and feedback from users who have made the switch. 

 

Testimonials and Success Stories

 

Banking

 

Assistant Branch Manager Heidee Draney holds the bond between FINSYNC and institutions such as WaFd Bank in high regard. She finds profound satisfaction in fostering connections with small-scale entrepreneurs and empowering them with essential tools.

 

 “My honest opinion is, I believe that every business can actually benefit from FINSYNC.”

 

“The pricing for Quickbooks is significantly higher compared to FINSYNC. This cost-effectiveness is another advantage, particularly for businesses in small towns looking to save money.”

 

“The best thing I like about FINSYNC is the accounting and cash flow management. These tools are incredibly valuable for small businesses.”

 

Value

 

Bob Hardy oversees accounting duties for Grace Abounds Rescue Mission and is keenly aware of the budget constraints inherent to non-profit operations. So discovering a platform like FINSYNC, which offers comprehensive services similar to QuickBooks but at a more budget-friendly price, is a significant win for his organization.

 

“One of the most important benefits we get from our FINSYNC relationship is the handling of our payroll and all federal and state payroll withholding and tax reporting. With the FINSYNC payroll processing system, it is incredibly easy and inexpensive!”

 

Hardy speaks highly of FINSYNC in terms of customer support: “The FINSYNC customer support is another strength for us. They are very effective and patient in helping us get set up and use the system. Since then, we have had very few issues, but if we do, they respond very quickly.”

 

Service

 

Sandi Purinton understands the value of exceptional customer service deeply. In the event of any software or financial management difficulties, she is reassured that FINSYNC’s support is merely a phone call, email, or chat away. This immediate assistance allows her to concentrate on the core operations of her bustling insurance enterprise, The Insurance Connection.

 

“As a business owner who actually works in the business, to have customer service on the phone when I have a question is a tremendous resource for me.”

 

“I was pleased with the support I got from FINSYNC. Your customer service manually updated items that weren’t syncing. It was really stressful, but when I reached out to FINSYNC, you were phenomenal!”

 

Payments

 

Siedah Mitchum wears many hats as an author, business mentor, and proud owner of Her Love Collections, LLC, a flourishing retail business with two locations in New York. In running her vendor store, she coordinates with around 80 vendors daily, making the transparency and ease of tracking payments and transactions a critical aspect of her operations. Since she embraced FINSYNC as a payment tool for her business, her experience has been overwhelmingly positive.

 

Siedah particularly praises FINSYNC’s invoicing feature: “The invoicing has been amazing! I can create templates and have everything pre-done, setting dates so the invoices go out automatically. I can also see when the payments begin to come out of my bank account. I also like the calendar, so I can see what days I can expect the money in or out.” 

 

The ease and efficiency have proven to be a triumph for Siedah, allowing her to focus on other critical aspects of her business.

 

Payroll

 

Elaine Smith-Poyourow is the driving force behind TLT – Tomorrow’s Leaders Today, an organization dedicated to equipping the younger generation with the necessary tools to navigate contemporary societies successfully. Managing payroll efficiently, including automatic deductions for state and federal taxes, was a critical need for her organization to avoid time-consuming calculations each pay period. Sandi’s experience with FINSYNC has been nothing short of positive in addressing this need.

 

“We are not in a position to start taking on payroll and tax reporting requirements. But this had to be done, and FINSYNC is a cost-effective way of doing that.”

 

“FINSYNC has allowed us to be more efficient and succeed without having a dedicated accounting role. It is just the push of the button at the end of the month, and payroll is done.”

 

Final Thoughts

 

It is clear that FINSYNC goes beyond merely a tool; it is a partner committed to the success of small businesses. This dedication to support and an all-in-one, user-friendly solution makes FINSYNC a superior alternative to traditional options like QuickBooks Online.

 

But don’t just trust our words. See the difference for yourself. FINSYNC now enables new users to utilize its payments and cash flow management features for free indefinitely. This commitment to user experience allows you to grasp firsthand and revolutionize your financial management. Make this stride towards better financial control, efficiency, and success with FINSYNC today.