Meet Lisa!

In this conversation, Zane interviews Lisa Hannah, a vice president at Berghof Realty Corporation, specializing in estate transition and legacy planning for vineyard and winery owners.

They discuss the complexities of wealth transfer, the role of women in real estate, and the importance of education and mentorship in navigating these challenges. Lisa shares her diverse career journey, insights on the changing landscape of real estate, and the necessity of having difficult conversations about family assets.

The discussion emphasizes the need for more women in decision-making roles and the impact of generational wealth transfer on the future of real estate ownership.

Takeaways

- Estate transition is a complex and personal journey.

- Women are increasingly becoming key players in real estate ownership. - The greatest transfer of wealth is currently happening.

- Education and empowerment are crucial for women inheriting properties.

- Many families are unprepared for the transfer of wealth.

- Mentorship plays a vital role in career development.

- Difficult conversations about assets should happen early.

- Commercial real estate is still male-dominated.

- The landscape of real estate is changing rapidly.

Sound Bites

"We are in a revolution of change."

"You can't mediate your own life."

"We need to have the hard conversations."

Chapters

00:00 Navigating Estate Transitions in the Wine Industry

04:58 Lisa's Journey: From Wall Street to Real Estate

11:12 The Gender Disparity in Real Estate Investment

16:59 Understanding the Commercial Real Estate Landscape

23:39 Preparing for the Great Transfer of Wealth

31:18 The Changing Landscape of Urban Living

33:17 Navigating Family Wealth and Property

35:55 A Day in the Life of a Mediator

39:10 Finding Purpose in Mediation

41:11 Goals and Aspirations in Mediation

44:27 The Importance of Mentorship

46:54 Advice for Future Leaders

49:46 Personal Insights and Rapid Fire Questions

Connect with Lisa: LinkedIn personal - https://www.linkedin.com/in/lisahannah/

Meet Tailor!

In this episode of Protea Conversations, Zane interviews Tailor Hartman, founder and CEO of Satellarity Accounting. They discuss Tailor's unique journey into accounting, the importance of advisory services, and the impact of technology on the industry.

Tailor shares his experiences transitioning from private to public accounting, the challenges he faced, and the decision to start his own practice. The conversation highlights the evolving role of accountants as strategic partners for businesses and the financial challenges they encounter today.

In this conversation, Tailor Hartman and Zane Stevens discuss the unexpected paths their careers have taken, the importance of building strong client relationships based on trust, and the challenges of scaling a business. They emphasize the role of technology in modern accounting practices and share valuable advice for aspiring accountants, highlighting the significance of interpersonal skills and adaptability in the profession.

Takeaways

- Tailor Hartman transitioned from a non-traditional background to accounting.

- He initially pursued a career as a firefighter before discovering his passion for finance.

- The importance of stability and financial success motivated Tailor to enter accounting.

- Tailor's experience in public accounting helped him develop client-facing skills.

- He built a successful accounting firm primarily through Upwork before expanding his network.

- He believes that accountants can be strategic partners rather than just service providers.

- The journey of starting his own practice was driven by a desire for flexibility and fulfillment.

- He finds teaching accounting technology rewarding, as he relates to students' challenges.

- Tailor emphasizes the importance of documenting experiences for future learning.

- Building strong relationships with clients is crucial for success.

- Trust is the foundation of client relationships in accounting.

- Technical expertise is expected; interpersonal skills are what set accountants apart.

- Flexibility in work arrangements fosters a positive company culture.

- Scaling a business requires a shift in mindset and delegation of tasks.

- Setting clear business goals is essential for growth.

- Personal agency is key to driving success in one's career.

Chapters

00:00 Introduction to Tailor Hartman and Celerity Accounting

10:15 Transitioning from Private to Public Accounting

18:08 Building a Successful Accounting Firm

24:17 The Decision to Start His Own Practice

32:03 Navigating Client Relationships

40:02 Scaling a Business 46:11 Embracing Technology in Accounting

51:59 Advice for Aspiring Accountants

Connect with Tailor:

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

Work with Celerity - https://celerity.io/contact/

Meet Jacob! In this episode of Protea Conversations, Zane interviews Jacob Giroux, a newly minted CPA and senior tax associate at Axley and Rodey.

Jacob shares his inspiring journey from a criminal justice background to becoming a CPA, highlighting the challenges he faced while balancing work and study. He discusses the importance of perseverance, the bittersweet feeling of passing the CPA exams, and the skills he developed along the way.

Jacob also delves into his experiences in the tax profession, the intricacies of building client relationships, and the value of being relatable in a rural setting. In this conversation, Jacob Giroux shares his insights on building trust with clients through personal connections, the importance of work-life balance, and the value of a supportive work environment.

He reflects on his career journey in accounting, discussing the need for a reimagined perception of the profession and debunking common misconceptions. Jacob emphasizes the significance of setting personal boundaries, pursuing career goals, and the lessons learned along the way, ultimately inspiring future accountants to embrace their potential.

Takeaways

- Jacob's journey to becoming a CPA is marked by resilience and discipline.

- Balancing a full-time job while studying for the CPA exams was a significant challenge.

- Imposter syndrome is a common feeling even after achieving major milestones.

- Building strong client relationships is crucial in the accounting profession.

- Jacob emphasizes the importance of being approachable and available to clients.

- He enjoys the puzzle-like nature of tax work, finding satisfaction in completing returns.

- The accounting profession needs to attract new talent and adapt to changing dynamics.

- Jacob's previous management experience enhances his marketability in accounting.

- He believes in setting a positive example for his family through hard work.

- Building trust with clients is essential for success.

- Availability can enhance client relationships.

- Setting boundaries is crucial for work-life balance.

- A supportive work environment fosters growth and development.

- Career goals can evolve; it's okay to take your time.

- Advice from mentors can shape your career path.

- The accounting profession needs a fresh perspective.

- Job security in accounting is a significant advantage.

Sound Bites

"It's a lot of imposter syndrome, I would say."

"You're piecing together a thousand, 10,000 pieces."

"Just trying to be some level of relatable to them."

"Availability is the best ability."

"Set your own boundaries that you're happy with."

"Do it well, no matter what you do."

"Be the best garbage man you can be."

"Accounting needs a makeover."

Chapters

00:00 Introduction to Jacob Giroux's Journey

02:01 Celebrating the CPA Milestone

04:04 Career Transition: From Criminal Justice to Accounting

10:28 Balancing Work and Study

15:04 Overcoming Imposter Syndrome

17:37 Insights into Tax Work

20:58 Building Client Relationships

29:29 Building Trust Through Personal Connections

32:40 Balancing Work and Personal Life

34:46 The Value of a Supportive Work Environment

35:33 Navigating Career Goals and Aspirations

37:17 Lessons from the Journey: Advice and Reflections

40:30 Reimagining the Accounting Profession

48:40 Advice for Future Accountants

52:25 Debunking Myths About Accountants

53:33 Personal Insights Beyond Accounting

Connect with Jacob: LinkedIn personal - https://www.linkedin.com/in/jacob-g-5819b780/

Meet Kellie!

In this episode of Protea Conversations, Zane interviews Kellie Parks, a passionate advocate for cloud-based accounting. They discuss Kellie's journey in the accounting industry, the importance of community, and how technology is transforming the field. Kellie shares her insights on the role of bookkeepers, the significance of interpersonal skills in accounting, and her transition from marketing to bookkeeping.

The conversation highlights the evolving landscape of accounting and the need for professionals to embrace technology and collaboration. In this engaging conversation, Kellie Parks shares her journey from marketing to bookkeeping, highlighting the importance of technology and personal growth in the accounting industry.

She discusses her transition to full-time bookkeeping, the impact of her marketing background, and the significance of setting priorities and boundaries in her professional life. Kellie also offers valuable advice for aspiring bookkeepers, emphasizing the need for a solid understanding of accounting fundamentals and the role of technology in enhancing client relationships.

Takeaways

- The accounting industry is increasingly becoming a technology-driven field.

- Bookkeeping is a crucial aspect of the accounting process.

- Community and relationships are vital in the accounting industry.

- Interpersonal skills are essential for success in accounting.

- Technology has made accounting more accessible and efficient.

- The shift to cloud technology in accounting has greatly improved efficiency and client satisfaction.

- Embracing technology is crucial for modern accountants and bookkeepers.

- Setting clear goals and priorities is essential for professional growth.

- Kellie emphasizes the importance of understanding core accounting principles.

- Personal anecdotes can illustrate the challenges and benefits of adapting to new technologies.

- Networking and community support are vital for success in the accounting industry.

Sound Bites

"I like to think of myself more as a thought sharer."

"I realized actually that I loved doing that."

"It opened up all of this freedom."

"I want to do it differently."

"You need to work on expectations and boundaries."

"You bring some fresh air to the accounting space."

Chapters

00:00 Introduction to Cloud Accounting and Kellie Parks

03:00 The Role of a Rabble Rouser in Accounting

05:53 Building Community in the Accounting Industry

08:57 The Importance of Bookkeeping

11:45 Technology's Impact on Accounting

14:56 Journey into Bookkeeping

18:02 The Transition from Marketing to Accounting

28:22 The Evolution of Kellie's Career

30:00 Transitioning to Full-Time Bookkeeping

31:49 Leveraging Technology in Accounting

34:37 The Impact of Marketing Experience on Accounting

38:07 Adapting to Change: A Personal Anecdote

41:30 The Importance of Technology in Modern Accounting

43:06 Setting Goals and Priorities

51:25 Advice for Aspiring Bookkeepers

Connect with Kellie:

LinkedIn personal - https://www.linkedin.com/in/kellie-parks/

More - https://linktr.ee/calmwaterskellie

In this episode of Protea Conversations, Zane Stevens interviews Ruby Steinberger, an estate planning attorney with a unique and unconventional journey to law.

Ruby shares her early experiences, including the loss of her father and her exposure to trusts, which inspired her to pursue a career in estate planning. She discusses the importance of empathy in her practice, the challenges of attending law school later in life, and her diverse career experiences that shaped her approach to law. Ruby emphasizes that estate planning is an act of love and highlights the need for a compassionate approach to discussing death and legacy. In this conversation, we explore the profound themes of planning for death as an act of love, the entrepreneurial spirit, and the daily life of an attorney. Ruby shares her journey of personal growth, the importance of mindset shifts, and her future aspirations, while also providing valuable advice for new graduates entering the workforce.

Takeaways

- Ruby's journey to law was influenced by personal loss.

- Experiences in life and business shaped her legal career.

- Law school was a fulfilling experience for Ruby.

- Ruby emphasizes empathy in estate planning.

- Estate planning is about love for family.

- Her diverse background informs her legal practice.

- People often underestimate their strength in tough situations.

- Daily routines can significantly impact productivity and mindset.

- Mindset is crucial for overcoming limiting beliefs.

- Abundance mindset leads to greater confidence and opportunities.

- Experiences outside of comfort zones foster personal growth.

Sound Bites

"Estate planning is truly an act of love."

"It's about you, your love for your family."

"Planning for death is an act of love."

"Money is a renewable resource."

"I have an abundance mindset."

Chapters

00:00 Introduction to Ruby Steinberger

01:38 Ruby's Unconventional Journey to Law

05:00 Life Experiences Shaping Legal Career

13:28 Navigating Law School Later in Life

18:24 Exploring Different Legal Paths

23:43 The Importance of Estate Planning

27:35 Empathy in Estate Planning

30:16 Planning for Death as an Act of Love

31:44 The Entrepreneurial Spirit and Personal Growth

32:46 Day-to-Day Life of a Solo Attorney

36:58 Mindset Shifts and Overcoming Limiting Beliefs

42:18 Future Goals and Aspirations

45:31 Advice for New Graduates

Connect with Ruby:

LinkedIn personal - https://www.linkedin.com/in/ruby-steinbrecher-307b525/

Website - https://lawofficeofruby.com/

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