Protea Conversations

Protea Conversations

por Zane Stevens
Negocios

Episode 36 - Scott Fuller - Navigating the Intersection of Faith and Finance

Meet Scott! In this episode, Zane interviews Scott Fuller, founder of Virtus Accounting Solutions. Scott shares his journey from a blue-collar upbringing to becoming a seasoned CPA, emphasizing the importance of aligning financial strategies with personal values. He discusses his experiences in public accounting, corporate finance, and ultimately starting his own firm to help purpose-driven businesses achieve financial clarity. Scott highlights the significance of empathy in client relationships and the role of accounting in making a positive impact in the world. He discusses the importance of purpose-driven business models, emphasizing the alignment of values with clients. He shares insights on niching by values rather than industry, the challenges of entrepreneurship, and the significance of collaboration over competition. Scott also provides personal anecdotes and advice for aspiring entrepreneurs, highlighting the importance of giving your best and maintaining business fundamentals. Takeaways - Scott's mission is to align financial strategies with values. - He emphasizes the importance of empathy in client relationships. - Scott's journey includes experiences in public accounting and corporate finance. - He believes in the value of listening to clients' needs. - Scott's firm focuses on providing financial clarity to clients. - The name 'Virtus' reflects integrity and courage in business. - Scott encourages younger accountants to experience both public and corporate accounting. We typically work with for-profit businesses that do good. - Niching by values allows for a deeper connection with clients. - It's important to focus on business fundamentals, even in purpose-driven companies. - Your best effort is always good enough, regardless of outcomes. - Collaboration in the accounting community is essential for growth. - It's harder than it looks to run a business successfully. - Values alignment with clients leads to better outcomes. - Personal experiences shape our approach to business. Sound Bites "I think empathy is a really great word." "Our job is to be the Yoda to help guide them." "It's about doing good in the world." "It's about the value behind it and the integrity." "Your best is always good enough." Chapters 00:00 Introduction to Scott Fuller and His Mission 04:44 Scott's Journey into Accounting 11:39 Transitioning to Corporate Accounting 19:57 Starting Virtus Accounting Solutions 30:20 Defining Purpose-Driven Businesses 33:48 Purpose-Driven Business Models 36:18 Client Examples and Values Alignment 39:59 Niching by Values vs. Industry 42:52 Business Fundamentals and Growth Strategies 47:29 Advice for Aspiring Entrepreneurs 51:10 Personal Insights and Rapid Fire Questions Connect with Scott: LinkedIn personal - https://www.linkedin.com/in/scottfullercpa/
E36
28 may 2025
54:19

Episode 35 - Georgia Athanasiou - Fast cars, fast dogs, and cash flow!

Meet Georgia! In this conversation, Zane speaks with Georgia Athanasiou, founder of Bay Area CFO Consultants, about her extensive experience in finance and consulting. They discuss the evolution of fractional CFO work, the importance of understanding profitability and cash flow, and Georgia's career journey from public accounting to consulting. Georgia shares insights from her time at fast moving start-ups, lessons learned in cash flow management, and the significance of forecasting in today's volatile market. They also touch on the importance of networking, finding a niche, and the challenges faced by aspiring consultants. Takeaways - Georgia Athanasiou has over 20 years of experience in finance. - Fractional CFO work has evolved significantly over the years. - Understanding unit economics is crucial for business profitability. - Cash flow management is essential for business sustainability. - Networking is vital for consultants to thrive in their careers. - Finding a niche can lead to greater success in consulting. - Visibility and marketing are important for attracting clients. Sound Bites "You need a team around you." "Networking is key for consultants." "Having savings helps reduce stress." Chapters 00:00 Introduction to Georgia Athanasiou 03:04 The Evolution of Fractional CFO Work 06:15 Understanding Profitability and Cash Flow 08:26 Georgia's Career Journey in Finance 16:45 Lessons in Cash Flow Management 20:45 The Importance of Forecasting 24:04 The Appeal of Consulting 28:55 Finding Your Niche 32:54 Making an Impact with Clients 36:59 The Power of Networking 38:30 A Day in the Life of a Consulting CFO 43:14 Balancing Work and Personal Life 46:37 Travel Experiences and Challenges 48:22 Advice for Aspiring Consultants 51:28 Financial Wisdom for Success 53:46 Personal Insights and Rapid Fire Questions Connect with Georgia: LinkedIn personal - https://www.linkedin.com/in/georgiaathanasiou/
E35
14 may 2025
55:04

Episode 34 - Lori Beth Merrill - The Essential Role of Fiduciaries in Estate Planning

Meet Lori Beth! In this conversation, Zane interviews Lori Beth Merrill, a professional fiduciary, who explains the vital role fiduciaries play in estate planning and management. Lori Beth shares her personal journey into the field, the services fiduciaries provide, and the emotional dynamics involved in working with families during sensitive times. She emphasizes the importance of having a solid estate plan and the need for fiduciaries in various situations, including special needs trusts. The discussion also touches on the qualifications needed to become a fiduciary and the advice for success in this rewarding yet challenging profession. Takeaways - A fiduciary acts as a professional child for estate management. - Expecting children to handle estate duties can be burdensome. - Fiduciaries help optimize estates to save costs. - It's crucial to have an estate plan in place before illness. - Fiduciaries provide emotional support during difficult times. - Communication with family members is key to reducing conflict. - The demand for fiduciaries is growing due to complex family dynamics. - Regular updates to estate plans are essential at life milestones. - A career in fiduciary services requires a blend of empathy and financial acumen. Sound Bites "It's a recipe for disaster." "It's a hidden world." "This is too complicated." Chapters 00:00 Introduction to Professional Fiduciaries 02:52 The Role of a Professional Fiduciary 06:08 Personal Journey into Fiduciary Services 14:49 Services Offered Before Passing 19:30 Navigating Family Dynamics 22:18 The Importance of Estate Planning Updates 27:49 When to Seek a Fiduciary 28:18 Understanding the Role of Fiduciaries 30:11 Finding a Fiduciary: Resources and Recommendations 32:29 The Hidden World of Fiduciaries 36:37 Who Should Consider Becoming a Fiduciary? 38:58 A Day in the Life of a Fiduciary 42:40 Keys to Success in the Fiduciary Profession 47:05 Personal Insights: Balancing Work and Life Connect with Lori Beth: LinkedIn personal - https://www.linkedin.com/in/lori-beth-merrill-305a612a1/
E34
30 abr 2025
52:29

Episode 33 - Lisa Hannah - Empowering Women in Real Estate

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/
E33
16 abr 2025
53:26

Episode 32 - Tailor Hartman - Challenging yourself to scale

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/
E32
2 abr 2025
53:40

Episode 31 - Jacob Giroux - Embracing the Journey

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/
E31
14 mar 2025
53:51

Episode 30 - Kellie Parks - Building Community in Cloud Accounting

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
E30
5 mar 2025
53:33

Episode 29 - Ruby Steinbercher - From Loss to Legacy: Ruby's Estate Planning Insights

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/
E29
19 feb 2025
47:29

Episode 28 - Chris Williams - The Business of Buying Small Businesses

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/
E28
5 feb 2025
52:10

Episode 27 - Molly Varangkounh - Transforming Business Through Curiosity

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/
E27
22 ene 2025
50:12
4 de 7