Smooth Talker cheated poor workers out of their pay. No one could ever understand what he was doing. He even collected rent, pocketing any cash. When buyers wanted an accounting. Smooth Talker wouldn't even supply it. When I came on scene and demanded, as a matter of law, an accounting of what was received and spent. Smooth Talker didn't have any proof of what happen to all money.

Jerry wanted out of partnership but Smooth Talker didn't want building sold; but he did want to make sure he got his due, if it was. He gave me a statement showing that he had put in $34,000 (which was not true) into building and wanted that before any split of profits. This would of left Jerry receiving $5,000 and Smooth Talker making $46,400 on whole deal.

To avoid being in this kind of a situation, I advice following, before doing any sort of real estate deal; a) Evaluate your risk. What is your downside? Have a real estate expert study deal. b) Set up operating and reporting guidelines with your partners. Put everything in clear English. c) Have everything reviewed by an attorney or an accountant. d) Choose your people partners with care.

What was end result? Most of time, a box-office hit and millions of dollars! Yes, there have been a few "failures" for each of them. However, generally speaking, each time they made an effort something wonderful happened.

There are three things I don’t think I’ll ever forget about that interview.

1. Everybody - even "rich and famous" - doubts himself or herself from time to time. Small business owners are no different. Wearing all different "hats" of a small business owner creates perfect environment for insecurity to creep in. It’s something you will likely not completely rid your life from, but it IS something you can overcome.

2. If risk is a calculated and reasonable one - suck it up and move onward toward your goal. Take into consideration "logical" aspects of success. Is risk you’re about to take (expanding your services, taking on a new client, launching a new product) one that stands a good chance of success? Weigh your options. If you decide risk is worth taking, then don’t let fear stand in your way.

3. Oprah DOES have some good shows from time to time! :)

So many small business owners quit before ever "making it." That’s a shame. They let their doubts and fears take over, and it drives their dreams right out of picture. If you love something - if you truly want to do a particular thing and earn an income from it - don’t let anyone (including yourself) tell you that it can’t be done. I think Meryl, Nicole and Julianne would agree!

Diane C. Hughes * ProBizTips.com