Skills
Business Development
Risk Management
Commercial Insurance
Employee Benefits
HR Support
Payroll
Business Compliance
Client Strategy
Business Operations
SHRM-CP
Founder Content
About
John Heaton is the Owner of Heaton & Associates, a Redlands-based business solutions firm that helps small and growing businesses manage risk, commercial insurance, employee benefits, HR support, and payroll.
John and Teresa Heaton launched Heaton & Associates in 2011 after seeing how many business owners needed clearer, more practical support around insurance, risk, and day-to-day business management. The firm began with commercial insurance and risk management, then expanded into employee benefits, HR support, payroll, and broader business solutions.
With a background in manufacturing, finance, business development, and strategic client support, John brings a broad view of the challenges business owners face. He focuses on identifying risk, creating customized solutions, and helping clients protect their organizations while supporting long-term growth.
John holds a SHRM-CP certification and studied at California State Polytechnic University, Pomona. His work is rooted in a client-first approach: putting business owners first, communicating proactively, comparing competitive options, and delivering service with accuracy and speed.
What you can cover
Risk management and business protection
Discuss how to identify gaps, evaluate business exposures, and create practical solutions that help protect your organization from preventable risk.
Commercial insurance strategy
Get guidance on commercial insurance needs, coverage priorities, carrier options, and how to think through protection for income, property, products, labor, and operations.
Employee benefits, HR support, and payroll
Talk through employee benefits, retention, HR support, compliance, payroll processing, and the tools small businesses can use without adding unnecessary overhead.
Business development and long-term growth
Use the session to explore business growth, client-first operations, proactive communication, and practical systems that help owners save time, reduce costs, and make better management decisions.
Common Questions
What can I ask John about?
You can ask about risk management, commercial insurance, employee benefits, HR support, payroll, business compliance, and practical ways to protect and grow a small business.
Who is this consultation best for?
It is useful for business owners, operators, founders, managers, and growing teams that need clearer support around insurance, risk, HR, benefits, payroll, or business-management decisions.
Can John help evaluate business risk?
Yes. John’s work with Heaton & Associates focuses on identifying risks, understanding business gaps, comparing practical options, and helping clients build customized solutions that fit their industry and stage of growth.
What should I prepare before the call?
Bring a short summary of your business, your current challenge, and any questions about risk, insurance, employee benefits, HR, payroll, compliance, or growth planning.
Get to know this founder
Chris Markarian, Esq.
Founder, Larkspur Foods
Chris Markarian, Esq., is the Founder and Principal Attorney of Markarian Law Group, a personal injury law firm serving California’s Inland Empire. A former U.S. Navy service member with a background in engineering and national security, Chris brings a unique perspective, discipline, and strategic approach to his legal practice. Since establishing his firm in 2013, he has focused on representing individuals and families affected by accidents and serious injuries. Deeply committed to his community, Chris is actively involved in local organizations, public safety initiatives, and educational programs, with a mission to make a meaningful difference in the lives of others.
$600
View Profile
Naja Faysal
Founder, Larkspur Foods
Naja Faysal is the Founder and CEO of Parrots Lab Media, bringing over 15 years of experience in marketing, business strategy, and digital innovation. With a background in senior marketing roles across the Middle East and a Master's degree in Information Systems Technology, he combines marketing expertise with a strong interest in technology and AI. Through Parrots Lab, Naja helps businesses grow through strategic marketing, digital content, personal branding, and technology-driven solutions. He is passionate about helping entrepreneurs build stronger brands, connect with their audiences, and achieve sustainable business growth.
$550
View Profile
Frequently Asked Questions
Who are the founders on California Founders?
Every founder on the roster has started, scaled, sold or is currently running a real company based in California. We verify their identity and their company history before they're listed this isn't a general expert or coaching marketplace.
How much does a session cost?
Each founder sets their own hourly rate, shown on their profile and typically between $500 and $2,500. You pay through the site when you book no separate invoicing.
What happens after I book?
You'll get a confirmation with the zoom call link, plus a reminder before your session. Sessions run one hour by video or phone, whichever the founder offers.
Can I book the same founder more than once?
Yes. Many people book a second or third session with the same founder as their business moves forward. Some founders also offer ongoing access through the Founders Table community.
How is this different from a conference or a coach?
The conference is a separate, quarterly in-person event. Coaching is generic advice from people trained to advise. This is direct time with someone who built and ran their own company the conversation is about what actually happened to them.
