From I-9 to invoice: onboarding a W2 job while running 6 LLCs (opens in new tab)

I just started a new W2 position as Lead Structural Engineer at ESI Inc. while running Load Bearing Empire - 6 AI-powered businesses under my main LLC. The onboarding process got interesting fast. Here's what happens when HR meets entrepreneurship. The paperwork maze Standard W2 onboarding is straightforward. Fill out your I-9, W4, direct deposit forms. Done in 30 minutes. Add 6 active LLCs and it becomes a disclosure minefield. My employment agreement had this clause: "Employee shall not eng...