February 2026 APA PPD Conversation - Starting your own planning practice with Jeff Ray скачать в хорошем качестве

February 2026 APA PPD Conversation - Starting your own planning practice with Jeff Ray

How to Start a Solo Planning Practice | Lessons from Launching a Planning Business In this candid and practical discussion, Jeff Ray, AICP, shares his journey from working at an engineering firm to launching his own solo planning practice, Ray Planning Solutions. He walks through why he made the leap, how he evaluated risks and rewards, and what he wishes he had known before starting. The conversation covers: Transitioning from employee to sole proprietor Creating flexibility and professional independence Building a business plan and financial projections Startup costs, insurance, and liability considerations LLC vs. S-Corp structures Setting hourly rates and managing overhead Finding clients and maintaining trusted relationships The realities of professional liability insurance for planners Participants also discuss the broader “Value of Planning” initiative, risk management, and how planners can better articulate their professional value. Whether you're considering starting your own planning firm or simply curious about the business side of planning, this session offers real-world insight from experienced practitioners.