Meet Chris! In this conversation, Chris Williams, CEO of System 6, shares his journey from finance to leading a successful outsourced accounting firm. He discusses the importance of community, the unique ecosystem of buying small businesses, and the appeal of the accounting industry.

Chris emphasizes the significance of culture and leadership in business growth, as well as the challenges faced during this transformation. He also reflects on his day-to-day responsibilities as a CEO, especially with a newborn at home.

In this conversation, Chris Williams shares his insights on leadership, time management, and the importance of setting clear expectations within a team. He discusses the balance between recurring responsibilities and strategic projects, the lessons learned from his leadership journey, and the significance of hiring the right people for business growth. Chris emphasizes a people-first approach to leadership, advocating for open communication and accountability, while also reflecting on his personal interests and the challenges of balancing work and family life.

Takeaways

- Chris emphasizes the importance of community in both personal and professional life.

- Success is not just about the outcome, but also about the energy you derive from your work.

- The ecosystem for buying small businesses has grown significantly in recent years.

- Recurring revenue models are crucial for stability in business.

- The accounting industry is essential and resilient, even during economic downturns.

- Culture and people are at the core of a successful business.

- Growth often brings new challenges that require strategic leadership.

- Hiring the right people is critical as a business scales.

- Transforming a business involves creating a management layer for sustainability.

- Tracking time can help prioritize high-value tasks in a busy schedule. Half of my time is allocated to strategic projects.

- It's crucial to vocalize expectations to the team.

- Hiring is a core motion for a growing business.

- You should feel like you work with your boss, not for your boss.

- Setting clear expectations leads to better performance.

- Understanding client fit is essential for business health.

- You need to build structure around your work schedule.

- It's important to find peace along the journey.

- Hiring well is as important as delivering services.

- You have to be comfortable being alone as a leader.

Sound Bites

"Life is not just about succeeding."

"Our business is a people business."

"I'm here to serve the team."

"Speak your mind faster."

"It's about what the business needs."

"It's not just about the revenue."

"You have to be comfortable being alone."

Chapters

00:00 Introduction to Chris Williams and System 6

03:00 Chris's Unique Path to Accounting

05:48 The Ecosystem of Buying Small Businesses

09:58 The Appeal of Outsourced Accounting

17:03 Transforming System 6: Growth and Culture

23:51 Navigating Challenges in Business Growth

28:07 Day-to-Day Life as a CEO

28:58 Managing Time and Priorities

32:44 Lessons Learned in Leadership

37:36 Setting Expectations and Accountability

40:10 Hiring for Growth

43:20 Short-Term Goals and Business Strategy

46:42 People-First Leadership Approach

49:55 Personal Insights and Interests Connect with Chris:

LinkedIn personal - https://www.linkedin.com/in/chris-williams-68057029/

Meet Molly!

Zane Stevens interviews Molly Varangkounh, the Chief Sanity Officer, who shares her journey from an entry-level accountant to the president of a family-owned tractor parts business. Molly discusses the importance of curiosity, effective communication, and building trust in leadership. She emphasizes the need for businesses to understand their numbers and the value of collaborative leadership. After 20 years in the family business, Molly now focuses on consulting and helping other businesses navigate their challenges and achieve sustainable growth. In this conversation,

Molly discusses her role in helping business owners navigate their challenges, identify sources of anxiety, and facilitate change. She emphasizes the importance of understanding financials, building trust, and measuring impact. Molly shares her insights on leadership qualities, the joy of witnessing 'aha moments,' and her goals for team development. The conversation also touches on personal connections and the importance of perspective in leadership.

Takeaways

- Molly emphasizes that accounting is the language of business.

- She highlights the importance of curiosity and continuous improvement in her career.

- Building a relationship based on trust is crucial for effective communication.

- Molly learned to present financial information in a digestible way for her father.

- She believes in celebrating failures to create a safe environment for mistakes.

- Molly stresses the need to connect with employees on a personal level.

- She advises saying yes to opportunities to discover one's niche.

- Molly's approach to leadership involves asking questions rather than giving orders.

- She emphasizes the importance of follow-through to build trust within a team.

- Molly's consulting work focuses on helping businesses identify and solve their actual problems.

- Building trust is essential when solving business problems.

- Flexibility in problem-solving leads to better outcomes.

- Offering options empowers business owners to make decisions.

- Effective leaders listen and celebrate their team's strengths.

- Understanding multiple perspectives fosters a positive team environment.

Sound Bites

"Accounting is the language of business."

"Curiosity and continuous improvement are key."

"Follow through builds trust."

"I celebrated my failures."

"You need to connect on a personal level."

"I help businesses find their actual problems."

Chapters

00:00 Introduction to Molly Varangkounh

04:18 Career Development and Family Business

10:06 The Importance of Numbers in Business

15:34 Navigating Difficult Conversations

21:03 Building Collaborative Leadership

25:54 Creating a Safe Environment for Mistakes

27:42 Molly's New Path and Consulting Work

30:49 The Role of a Chief Sanity Officer

32:21 Understanding Business Owners' Challenges

34:14 Identifying Sources of Anxiety

36:51 Navigating Pushback from Business Owners

39:02 Facilitating Change and Decision-Making

41:35 Measuring Impact and Progress

43:30 The Joy of Aha Moments

44:56 Short-Term Goals and Team Development

47:31 Qualities of Effective Leadership

50:25 Advice for New Leaders

51:27 The Importance of Perspective

53:01 Personal Insights and Family Connections

54:08 Rapid Fire Questions

Connect with Molly:

LinkedIn personal - https://www.linkedin.com/in/molly-varangkounh-17440270/

In this conversation, Zane Stevens interviews John Fenton, a seasoned leader in the accounting and coaching sectors. John shares his journey from a 30-year career in accounting to becoming a leadership coach, emphasizing the importance of vision, resilience, and relationship-building in both sports and business.

He reflects on his experiences in Division 1 football, the lessons learned about teamwork and leadership, and how these principles apply to navigating change in the corporate world. John also discusses the significance of staying true to one's values and the necessity of developing resilience in the face of challenges.

In this conversation, Zane Stevens and John Fenton explore the importance of identifying core values, the transition from a CPA firm partner to a coaching role, and the necessity of coaching in the accounting industry. They discuss coaching philosophies, the significance of gratitude in leadership, and provide advice for new leaders. John shares personal reflections on his purpose and the impact of vulnerability in leadership.

Takeaways

- John Fenton emphasizes the importance of having a clear vision in leadership.

- Building relationships is crucial in the accounting profession.

- Resilience and flexibility are essential skills in navigating change.

- Lessons from sports can be applied to business leadership.

- Sticking to one's values is key in decision-making.

- Teamwork and trust are foundational to success in any field.

- The path to leadership requires dedication and hard work.

- Understanding the dynamics of emotions can impact performance.

- It's important to focus on the next best action in challenging situations.

- The grass is not always greener; sometimes perseverance pays off. Many people lack clarity on their core values.

- Reflection is key to identifying personal values.

- Aligning values with work leads to greater happiness.

- Coaching is essential for growth in the accounting industry.

- Building relationships is crucial for effective leadership.

- Gratitude can significantly improve team dynamics.

- New leaders should focus on listening and understanding their team.

- Vulnerability in leadership fosters connection and growth.

- Goal setting should be focused and intentional.

- Continuous self-improvement is a hallmark of effective leadership.

Sound Bites

"You have to rely on other people."

"Vision is very clear."

"Focus on the next best action."

"Peopling is hard."

"Think differently, achieve more."

"What is my purpose?"

Chapters

00:00 Introduction to John Fenton and His Journey

01:40 Early Career in Accounting and Transition to Leadership

05:13 Lessons from Division One Football

11:03 The Importance of Leadership and Vision

15:21 Navigating Change and Resiliency in Business

24:26 Developing Resiliency and Staying True to Values

27:52 Identifying Core Values 34:06 Transitioning to Coaching

39:45 The Need for Coaching in Accounting

43:15 Coaching Philosophy and Style

51:36 Advice for New Leaders

54:04 Personal Reflections and Purpose

Connect with John:

LinkedIn personal - https://www.linkedin.com/in/johnjfentonceocoach/

Get the book, 5 Minute Mastery - https://www.amazon.com/stores/John-J.-Fenton/author/B07JF9LCS3?ref=ap_rdr&isDramIntegrated=true&shoppingPortalEnabled=true

Meet Rory!

Zane speaks with Rory Henry, a certified financial planner and behavioral financial advisor, about the integration of behavioral finance and holistic wealth management. Rory discusses his journey from tax professional to wealth management, emphasizing the importance of a holistic approach that considers all aspects of a client's financial life. The conversation delves into the evolution of financial advisory, the significance of understanding clients' emotional relationships with money, and the necessity of having difficult conversations to guide clients toward their ideal futures.

Rory also explores the concept of money scripts and how they influence financial decisions, advocating for a values-based planning approach to create meaningful financial strategies. In this conversation they discuss the intricate relationship individuals have with money, the importance of self-assessment in financial planning, and the need for holistic approaches in wealth management. Rory shares insights from his new book aimed at accounting professionals, emphasizing the integration of behavioral finance and the necessity of engaging non-financial spouses in financial discussions. He also highlights his mission to reduce financial stress and expand financial literacy through media.

Takeaways

- Holistic financial planning encompasses all aspects of a client's financial life.

- Behavioral finance plays a crucial role in understanding client decisions.

- Asking the right questions can lead to deeper client insights.

- The emotional side of finance is often overlooked but essential for effective advisory.

- Engaging in future self-exercises can provide clarity on financial goals.

- The accounting profession is evolving into a more holistic advisory role.

- Improv can enhance personal development and public speaking skills.

- Asking for help is essential for growth and learning.

- The future of accounting is bright with many opportunities.

Sound Bites

"Return on relationship is key."

"We need to ask the right questions."

"We're advising clients from womb to tomb."

"Don't be afraid to ask for help."

Chapters

00:00 Introduction to Holistic Wealth Management

05:14 The Evolution of Financial Advisory

10:00 Understanding Holistic Financial Planning

15:10 The Role of Behavioral Finance

19:51 Navigating Difficult Conversations in Advisory

24:58 Exploring Money Scripts and Their Impact

30:01 The Future of Financial Advisory

30:01 The Importance of Self-Assessment in Financial Planning

31:00 Introducing the Book: A Guide for Accounting Professionals

34:18 The Value of Holistic Financial Planning

36:57 Engaging Non-Financial Spouses in Financial Conversations

38:49 Rory's Mission to Reduce Financial Stress

39:45 Future Goals: Expanding Financial Literacy through Media

41:18 The Role of Improv in Personal Development

46:58 Advice for New Accountants and the Future of the Profession

Connect with Rory:

LinkedIn personal - https://www.linkedin.com/in/roryshenry/

Get the book - https://advisror.com/

Meet Vipul!

Zane Stevens speaks with Vipul Seth, Managing Director of AdvancedTrack Outsourcing. They explore Vipul's journey from a family business background to becoming a transformative leader in the accounting industry.

Vipul shares insights on the evolving role of accountants, the importance of technology in enhancing client relationships, and the vision behind his successful outsourcing firm. The conversation emphasizes the need for accountants to be proactive advisors and professional friends to their clients, ultimately aiming to change lives through their work. In this conversation, Vipul Sheth discusses the importance of building a culture of excellence in accounting, embracing technology for future growth, and the significance of collaboration and mentorship in the industry. He shares valuable lessons from his early career, emphasizes the need for patience in business, and highlights the role of sports in developing teamwork skills. Vipul also reflects on his leadership values, advocating for authenticity and open communication within teams.

Takeaways

- Accountants can change lives, but not by producing a set of accounts.

- The journey into accounting often starts with unexpected influences.

- Building relationships is key to successful accounting practices.

- Technology allows accountants to be more proactive in their advisory roles.

- Creating a business that operates independently is a crucial goal.

- Mistakes in business are valuable learning experiences. - Accountants should strive to be professional friends to their clients.

- Challenging oneself leads to continuous improvement in business.

- Outsourcing can free up time for more client-facing activities.

- The success of a business is tied to the success of its clients. Building a culture of excellence is essential for success.

- Embracing technology is crucial for staying relevant.

- Continuous learning and collaboration with peers are key.

- Patience is vital for long-term business growth.

- Authenticity in leadership fosters trust and openness.

- Team sports can enhance teamwork and communication skills.

- Testing new technologies with clients can lead to innovation.

- A no-blame culture encourages honesty and accountability.

- Mentorship plays a significant role in professional development.

- Adaptability is necessary in a rapidly changing business environment.

Sound Bites

"Accountants make a difference. We absolutely do."

"I wanted a business that could operate without me."

"Building a culture of excellence is key."

"Keep reading, talk to your peers."

"Authenticity is key in leadership."

"Collaboration leads to better results."

"Patience is essential in business."

"Be ready for a rough ride in business."

"Honesty is the number one quality in a friend."

Chapters

00:00 Introduction to ProteaConversations

01:42 Meet Vipul Seth: A Transformative Leader

04:32 The Journey into Accounting

10:01 The Role of Accountants in Changing Lives

16:28 Transitioning from Audit to Business Ownership

21:11 Starting AdvancedTrack: The Vision Behind the Business

25:43 The Unique Approach of AdvancedTrack

31:03 Creating Value Through Technology and Outsourcing

32:38 Building a Culture of Excellence

35:30 Embracing Technology for Future Growth

38:44 Staying Ahead in Technology

45:09 Lessons from Early Career Experiences

48:04 Leadership Values and Authenticity

53:59 Advice for New Business Owners

54:55 Personal Insights and the Role of Sports

Introducing Caleb Jenkins, the 2024 Insightful Accountants Pro Advisor of the Year.

We Caleb's journey in accounting, his early influences, and the importance of community service. Caleb shares insights on wealth management, values-based investing, and the significance of having a vision and direction in one's career. The conversation highlights the impact of family support, personal growth, and the drive to make a difference in the community. In this conversation, Caleb Jenkins discusses the importance of trust in community programs, the complexities of different types of poverty, and how these insights have revolutionized his approach to business. He emphasizes the shift from compliance to advisory work in accounting, the significance of community engagement, and the balance between leadership and following. Caleb also shares practical advice for aspiring accountants and personal insights into his life and values.

Takeaways

- Caleb Jenkins emphasizes the importance of community service and giving back.

- He started his accounting journey at a young age, influenced by his father's firm.

- Caleb's passion for accounting was nurtured through hands-on experiences.

- He believes in the power of leadership over following.

- Education and self-directed learning played a crucial role in his career.

- Caleb chose to pursue an Enrolled Agent designation instead of a CPA.

- He is passionate about values-based investing and wealth management.

- Caleb's outreach work in Haiti has significantly impacted his perspective.

- He encourages others to take accountability for their career paths.

- Caleb's success is attributed to hard work, determination, and a clear vision. Trust is essential for community programs to succeed.

- Understanding the difference between crisis and chronic poverty is crucial.

- Chronic poverty requires a deeper analysis of root causes.

- Business practices should focus on solving underlying issues, not just surface symptoms. - Advisory work in accounting is about addressing root problems.

- Daily routines can impact work-life balance and productivity.

- Community engagement provides inspiration and growth opportunities.

- Effective leadership involves having a clear vision and inspiring others.

- Aspiring accountants should seek certification and community involvement.

- Personal experiences shape our professional journeys and values.

Sound Bites

"I loved the eight hours of shredding."

"I started tracking my own books on QuickBooks."

"The aspect of being a leader rather than a follower."

"Advisory work is about solving root problems."

"Community inspires me and seeing others grow."

"Vision is the intersection of your higher principle."

"Get certified as a QuickBooks Pro Advisor."

Chapters

00:00 Introduction to Protea Conversations

01:18 Caleb Jenkins: A Journey in Accounting

03:50 Early Influences and Family Background

10:03 The Path to Accounting: Passion and Opportunity

22:40 The Importance of Vision and Direction

27:48 Outreach Work and Community Impact

28:51 The Importance of Trust in Community Programs

30:09 Understanding Different Types of Poverty

35:41 Revolutionizing Business Practices

37:40 The Shift from Compliance to Advisory

42:31 The Value of Community Engagement

46:16 Leadership: Balancing Vision and Following

49:20 Advice for Aspiring Accountants

51:50 Personal Insights and Fun Facts

Connect with Caleb: LinkedIn personal - https://www.linkedin.com/in/calebjenkins1994/

In this episode of Protea Conversations, host Zane Stevens engages with Dr. Eugene Dilán, a clinical psychologist and leadership expert.

They explore Eugene's journey from a challenging upbringing in Brooklyn to becoming a successful consultant. The conversation delves into the importance of human connection in business, the transformative power of leadership, and the mission behind Dilan Consulting Group. Eugene shares insights on overcoming personal doubt, the significance of inclusion in leadership, and his aspirations for the future, including a new nonprofit initiative aimed at fostering community dialogue.

Takeaways

- Leadership is about understanding and connecting with people.

- Personal experiences shape our professional paths.

- Inclusion in decision-making fosters ownership and commitment.

- Transformative leadership requires empathy and understanding.

- Business should prioritize stakeholders over shareholders.

- Perseverance is key to overcoming challenges in entrepreneurship.

- Creating a safe space for dialogue is essential for growth.

- Self-awareness is crucial for effective leadership.

- Community engagement enhances personal and professional fulfillment.

- Every moment is an opportunity for co-creation.

Sound Bites

"Business is Human."

"You always have a choice."

"The difference between successful entrepreneurs is perseverance."

Chapters

00:00 Introduction to Leadership and Psychology

02:42 Eugene's Journey to Psychology

10:21 Growing Up in Brooklyn: A Personal Narrative

19:41 Career Path: From Nonprofits to Consulting

27:32 Transformative Leadership: The Importance of Inclusion

30:56 Founding Delon Consulting Group

38:55 The Mission of Delon Consulting

42:18 Daily Operations and Community Engagement

47:42 Short-Term Goals and Future Aspirations

51:25 Overcoming Personal Doubt

53:25 Advice for Aspiring Leaders

56:30 Personal Insights and Rapid Fire Questions

Connect with Eugene: LinkedIn personal - https://www.linkedin.com/in/eugenedilan/

In this episode of Protea Conversations, Zane speaks with Jamie Skinner, a fractional controller and CFO, about her journey into accounting, the challenges of entrepreneurship, and the importance of process improvement in financial operations.

Jamie shares her experiences transitioning from a corporate role to consulting, her passion for helping small businesses, and her insights on work-life balance as a solopreneur. The conversation also touches on the significance of networking, learning from mistakes, and the personal joys of life outside of work.

Takeaways

- Jamie Skinner emphasizes the importance of following your passion in your career.

- The transition from a corporate job to consulting can be challenging but rewarding.

- Process improvement is a key focus for Jamie in her consulting work.

- Networking is crucial for success in entrepreneurship.

- Mistakes are a part of the journey; learning from them is essential.

- Being transparent with clients about mistakes fosters trust.

- Work-life balance is achievable with the right strategies.

- Small business owners often need guidance in financial management.

- Utilizing technology can enhance efficiency in business operations.

- Having a supportive partner can help manage family and work responsibilities.

Sound Bites

"This is what I want to do."

"I love being in the mountains."

"If you don't ask, the answer is always no."

Chapters

00:00 Introduction to Prodig Conversations

01:18 Journey into Accounting: Jamie Skinner's Story

06:36 Career Decisions: From Teaching to Accounting

12:28 Transforming Financial Processes in Healthcare

18:55 The Leap to Consulting: Challenges and Opportunities

26:27 The Role of a Consultant: More Than Just Numbers

30:41 Process Improvement: A Consultant's Passion

35:07 Balancing Work and Family Life

43:24 Future Goals: The Fiscal Guardian Club

48:42 Advice for Aspiring Entrepreneurs

56:55 Personal Insights: Beyond the Professional

01:02:11 Rapid Fire Questions: Fun Facts About Jamie

Connect with Jamie: LinkedIn personal - https://www.linkedin.com/in/jamieskinnerreno/