Empowering Entrepreneurs

Glenn Harper
  • 5.0 (11)
  • Entrepreneurship
  • Updated Semiweekly

Join Glenn Harper and Julie Smith as they help you build your brand and gain confidence as an entrepreneur. Explore key topics like business growth, mentorship, and overcoming challenges. Their guests bring intriguing and entertaining clarity to help you increase your confidence in building your business (and enjoy your journey doing it). Drive your passion, grow your business, and empower your journey today!

  1. 2d ago

    Why Clean Bookkeeping Is Essential for Small Business Success

    Are your business financials a mess? Learn the basics of bookkeeping and when to call in the pros. Glenn Harper and Julie Smith tackle a topic most people find a little boring, but trust us, it’s way more important than you think: bookkeeping. Whether you’re running a new side hustle out of your garage or you’ve got a team behind you, how you handle your books sets the tone for your whole business. Glenn Harper starts off with a quick trip back in time (hello, Leonardo da Vinci’s accountant buddy!) to show how bookkeeping is the OG business tool. And then he brings it right back to today’s realities. You’ll hear why categorizing your expenses matters, what can go wrong if you skip proper reconciliation, and how choosing the right system (like QuickBooks) can save you serious headaches down the road. Why do so many owners start out doing their own books? When should you call in a pro? And what are the classic mistakes that trip people up before they even realize there’s a problem? With real talk about how bookkeeping mess-ups can lead to bad decisions and unnecessary stress, this episode is packed with tips on setting up your system right, knowing when to ask for help, and actually understanding what your financial statements are telling you. PureTax, LLC In this episode, you’ll learn: The origins and purpose of bookkeeping—and why every business needs it (00:00)How to properly categorize income and expenses to avoid costly mistakes (01:32)The role of reconciliation and why it’s essential for accurate financial statements (03:10)When to handle bookkeeping internally, when to hire a bookkeeper, and when to bring in an accountant (04:13, 12:32)Red flags that signal it’s time to get professional help—and the real costs of getting it wrong (11:13, 14:25) Running a business doesn’t have to run your life. Without a business partner who holds you accountable, it’s easy to be so busy ‘doing’ business that you don’t have the right strategy to grow your business. Stop letting your business run you. At Harper & Co CPA Plus, we know that you want to be empowered to build the lifestyle you envision. In order to do that you need a clear path to follow for success Our clients enjoy a proactive partnership with us. Schedule a consultation with us today. Download our free guide - Entrepreneurial Success Formula: How to Avoid Managing Your Business From Your Bank Account. Glenn Harper, CPA, is the Owner and Managing Partner of Harper & Company CPAs Plus, a top 10 Managing Partner in the country (Accounting Today's 2022 MP Elite). His firm won the 2021 Luca Award for Firm of the Year.  An entrepreneur and speaker, Glenn transformed his firm into an advisory-focused practice, doubling revenue and profit in two years. He teaches entrepreneurs to build financial and operational excellence, speaks nationwide to CPA firm owners about running their businesses like entrepreneurs, and consults with firms across the country. Glenn enjoys golfing, fishing, hiking, cooking, and spending time with his family. Julie Smith, MBA, is a serial entrepreneur in the public accounting space. She is the Founder of EmpowerCPA™, Founder of PureTax, LLC, COO for Harper & Company CPAs Plus, and Co-host of the Empowering Entrepreneurs podcast.  Named CPA.com's 2021 Innovative Practitioner of Year, Julie led Harper & Company's transition to an advisory-focused firm, doubling revenue and profit in two years. She now empowers other CPA firm owners nationwide through consulting and speaking, teaching them how to run their businesses like entrepreneurs. Julie lives in Columbus, OH with her family and enjoys travel, coaching basketball, sporting events, and the occasional shopping spree. https://creativecommons.org/licenses/by-nd/4.0/ Copyright 2026 Glenn Harper Mentioned in this episode: Brought to you by Harper & Company CPAs Plus Running a business takes vision, grit… and the right financial partner. At Harper & Company CPAs Plus, we don’t just crunch numbers—we empower entrepreneurs. From proactive tax strategy and accounting to business advisory services, our team helps you keep more of what you earn and scale with confidence. Whether you’re launching, growing, or preparing for exit, Harper & Company is in your corner with expert guidance built for business owners like you. Visit www.harpercpaplus.com to book a complimentary discovery call today - or call us at 614-456-7222. Brought to you by Harper & Company CPAs Plus

  2. Sep 2

    How Kurt Nelson Empowers Entrepreneurs Through Behavioral Science

    Discover how behavioral science expert Kurt Nelson helps entrepreneurs master mindset, team leadership, and motivation in this insightful episode. What sets thriving entrepreneurs apart? We look into the multifaceted world of entrepreneurial success with Kurt Nelson, PhD, founder of the Lantern Group, podcast co-host, and behavioral science expert. From humble Midwestern beginnings and ice cream shop lessons to advising Fortune 500 companies and solo entrepreneurs alike, Kurt shares eye-opening perspectives on how the right mindset and emotional intelligence drive lasting impact. In this episode, you’ll get: Key lessons from Kurt’s journey. Why understanding human behavior is essential for business successReal-life stories tackling burnout, uncertainty, and how to reset your entrepreneurial driveThe science of motivation: why non-cash incentives can outperform cash, and how leaders can build high-performing, resilient teamsPractical strategies for developing self-awareness, overcoming limiting behaviors, and building supportive company culturesThe rising importance of emotional intelligence (EQ) in the age of AI and remote work Packed with practical insights for entrepreneurs at every stage, this conversation will help you simplify challenges, improve decision-making, and become a better leader, no matter your business size. This episode is brought to you by PureTax, LLC. Tax preparation services without the pressure. When all you need is to get your tax return done, take the stress out of tax season by working with a firm that has simplified the process and the pricing. Find out more about how we started. Three key takeaways for entrepreneurs and leaders: Human behavior is the heart of business. Whether working with a Fortune 500 or a five-person startup, success depends on understanding how people think, feel, and make decisions. Behavioral science isn’t just theory, it’s your competitive advantage.Self-awareness unlocks growth. The best leaders don’t just manage others, they reflect deeply on their own actions, biases, and communication patterns. Bringing a mirror to your habits may be the most challenging step, but it’s the foundation for meaningful change and leadership impact.EQ will set you apart in an AI-powered world. As technology levels the playing field on technical intelligence, emotional intelligence (EQ) becomes the new differentiator. Building trust, connection, and empathy is more critical than ever. Your team and clients can feel the difference. Running a business doesn’t have to run your life. Without a business partner who holds you accountable, it’s easy to be so busy ‘doing’ business that you don’t have the right strategy to grow your business. Stop letting your business run you. At Harper & Co CPA Plus, we know that you want to be empowered to build the lifestyle you envision. In order to do that you need a clear path to follow for success Our clients enjoy a proactive partnership with us. Schedule a consultation with us today. Download our free guide - Entrepreneurial Success Formula: How to Avoid Managing Your Business From Your Bank Account. Glenn Harper, CPA, is the Owner and Managing Partner of Harper & Company CPAs Plus, a top 10 Managing Partner in the country (Accounting Today's 2022 MP Elite). His firm won the 2021 Luca Award for Firm of the Year.  An entrepreneur and speaker, Glenn transformed his firm into an advisory-focused practice, doubling revenue and profit in two years. He teaches entrepreneurs to build financial and operational excellence, speaks nationwide to CPA firm owners about running their businesses like entrepreneurs, and consults with firms across the country. Glenn enjoys golfing, fishing, hiking, cooking, and spending time with his family. Julie Smith, MBA, is a serial entrepreneur in the public accounting space. She is the Founder of EmpowerCPA™, Founder of PureTax, LLC, COO for Harper & Company CPAs Plus, and Co-host of the Empowering Entrepreneurs podcast.  Named CPA.com's 2021 Innovative Practitioner of Year, Julie led Harper & Company's transition to an advisory-focused firm, doubling revenue and profit in two years. She now empowers other CPA firm owners nationwide through consulting and speaking, teaching them how to run their businesses like entrepreneurs. Julie lives in Columbus, OH with her family and enjoys travel, coaching basketball, sporting events, and the occasional shopping spree. https://creativecommons.org/licenses/by-nd/4.0/ Copyright 2026 Glenn Harper Mentioned in this episode: Brought to you by Harper & Company CPAs Plus Running a business takes vision, grit… and the right financial partner. At Harper & Company CPAs Plus, we don’t just crunch numbers—we empower entrepreneurs. From proactive tax strategy and accounting to business advisory services, our team helps you keep more of what you earn and scale with confidence. Whether you’re launching, growing, or preparing for exit, Harper & Company is in your corner with expert guidance built for business owners like you. Visit www.harpercpaplus.com to book a complimentary discovery call today - or call us at 614-456-7222. Brought to you by Harper & Company CPAs Plus

  3. Aug 26

    How Tahmina Watson Helps Immigrant Entrepreneurs Achieve Their American Dream

    Learn the inside story of immigration, startups, and entrepreneurship with leading immigration attorney Tahmina Watson. What does it take to turn the challenges of immigration into entrepreneurial success? Tahmina Watson, founder of Watson Immigration Law, Forbes Business Council member, author, and advocate, sits down with Glenn Harper and Julie Smith to discuss her own immigrant journey, the realities of U.S. immigration law, and the mindset required to build both a meaningful business and life. In this candid conversation, listeners will learn: The personal story behind Tahmina’s move from the UK to America and starting over as a legal professional 02:48How her experiences led her to become a specialist in immigration law for entrepreneurs and startups 07:43Practical insights into visa options and the unique barriers immigrant entrepreneurs face in the U.S. 27:05What it really takes to launch and grow a values-driven law firm, including team building and business lessons 33:01Methods for balancing entrepreneurship, meaningful work, and self-care, plus Tamina’s surprising passion for bird photography 40:42 Whether you’re an aspiring immigrant founder, a business owner, or someone passionate about social impact, Tahmina’s transparency and expertise will inspire you to turn personal challenges into professional purpose. This episode is brought to you by PureTax, LLC. Tax preparation services without the pressure. When all you need is to get your tax return done, take the stress out of tax season by working with a firm that has simplified the process and the pricing. Find out more about how we started. Takeaways: Navigating the path from immigrant to entrepreneur requires resilience, support, and the willingness to embrace new opportunities.The U.S. immigration system for entrepreneurs is complex and constantly evolving, and understanding visa options and legal nuances is critical.Building a business as an immigrant includes unique stressors; having a mission and outlets like bird photography can sustain long-term success.Authorship and advocacy can amplify your impact beyond client work and open unexpected doors. Running a business doesn’t have to run your life. Without a business partner who holds you accountable, it’s easy to be so busy ‘doing’ business that you don’t have the right strategy to grow your business. Stop letting your business run you. At Harper & Co CPA Plus, we know that you want to be empowered to build the lifestyle you envision. In order to do that you need a clear path to follow for success Our clients enjoy a proactive partnership with us. Schedule a consultation with us today. Download our free guide - Entrepreneurial Success Formula: How to Avoid Managing Your Business From Your Bank Account. Glenn Harper, CPA, is the Owner and Managing Partner of Harper & Company CPAs Plus, a top 10 Managing Partner in the country (Accounting Today's 2022 MP Elite). His firm won the 2021 Luca Award for Firm of the Year.  An entrepreneur and speaker, Glenn transformed his firm into an advisory-focused practice, doubling revenue and profit in two years. He teaches entrepreneurs to build financial and operational excellence, speaks nationwide to CPA firm owners about running their businesses like entrepreneurs, and consults with firms across the country. Glenn enjoys golfing, fishing, hiking, cooking, and spending time with his family. Julie Smith, MBA, is a serial entrepreneur in the public accounting space. She is the Founder of EmpowerCPA™, Founder of PureTax, LLC, COO for Harper & Company CPAs Plus, and Co-host of the Empowering Entrepreneurs podcast.  Named CPA.com's 2021 Innovative Practitioner of Year, Julie led Harper & Company's transition to an advisory-focused firm, doubling revenue and profit in two years. She now empowers other CPA firm owners nationwide through consulting and speaking, teaching them how to run their businesses like entrepreneurs. Julie lives in Columbus, OH with her family and enjoys travel, coaching basketball, sporting events, and the occasional shopping spree. https://creativecommons.org/licenses/by-nd/4.0/ Copyright 2026 Glenn Harper Mentioned in this episode: Brought to you by Harper & Company CPAs Plus Running a business takes vision, grit… and the right financial partner. At Harper & Company CPAs Plus, we don’t just crunch numbers—we empower entrepreneurs. From proactive tax strategy and accounting to business advisory services, our team helps you keep more of what you earn and scale with confidence. Whether you’re launching, growing, or preparing for exit, Harper & Company is in your corner with expert guidance built for business owners like you. Visit www.harpercpaplus.com to book a complimentary discovery call today - or call us at 614-456-7222. Brought to you by Harper & Company CPAs Plus

  4. Aug 12

    Stop Confusing Tasks for Business Growth

    Many entrepreneurs mistake task completion for true business growth—discover the biggest lie holding you back. Entrepreneurs often fall into the trap of feeling productive by crossing tasks off their to-do lists—but is that really growing your business? In this eye-opening episode, Glenn Harper and Julie Smith bust through the biggest lie most entrepreneurs tell themselves. This episode is brought to you by PureTax, LLC. Tax preparation services without the pressure. When all you need is to get your tax return done, take the stress out of tax season by working with a firm that has simplified the process and the pricing. Find out more about how we started. Key TakeawaysDon’t confuse task completion with business building: Many entrepreneurs spend their time on easy tasks instead of strategic growth activities (00:29-01:32).Prepare for the necessary pivot: Being stuck in routines can make it difficult to adapt when your business needs a change (00:45).Identify your real product or service: It’s easy to mistake what you sell (e.g., homes) for what you truly provide (e.g., the dream of homeownership) (02:09-03:02).The path of least resistance isn’t the best route: Doing what’s comfortable often prevents substantial progress (01:37).Growth requires doing the hard things: Embrace the challenging tasks if you want your business to thrive (01:47-01:49). 5 Frequently Asked Questions What is the biggest lie entrepreneurs tell themselves? - Glenn Harper explains it’s believing they are running a business, when they’re just completing tasks (00:29).Why do entrepreneurs get stuck doing easy tasks? - According to Julie Smith, easy tasks are enjoyable and offer the path of least resistance, making them an easy comfort zone (01:37).How can being task-focused hurt your business? - It can prevent you from pivoting quickly or prioritizing activities that actually drive growth and revenue (01:47).What does it mean to misunderstand your product or service? -Glenn Harper shares that entrepreneurs often think they’re selling a product (like a house) instead of the real value (a dream or lifestyle) (02:09).What can help entrepreneurs shift their mindset? - Focus on doing the hard, strategic things and be prepared to pivot—don’t let comfort tasks hold you back from growth (01:49). Running a business doesn’t have to run your life. Without a business partner who holds you accountable, it’s easy to be so busy ‘doing’ business that you don’t have the right strategy to grow your business. Stop letting your business run you. At Harper & Co CPA Plus, we know that you want to be empowered to build the lifestyle you envision. In order to do that you need a clear path to follow for success Our clients enjoy a proactive partnership with us. Schedule a consultation with us today. Download our free guide - Entrepreneurial Success Formula: How to Avoid Managing Your Business From Your Bank Account. Glenn Harper, CPA, is the Owner and Managing Partner of Harper & Company CPAs Plus, a top 10 Managing Partner in the country (Accounting Today's 2022 MP Elite). His firm won the 2021 Luca Award for Firm of the Year.  An entrepreneur and speaker, Glenn transformed his firm into an advisory-focused practice, doubling revenue and profit in two years. He teaches entrepreneurs to build financial and operational excellence, speaks nationwide to CPA firm owners about running their businesses like entrepreneurs, and consults with firms across the country. Glenn enjoys golfing, fishing, hiking, cooking, and spending time with his family. Julie Smith, MBA, is a serial entrepreneur in the public accounting space. She is the Founder of EmpowerCPA™, Founder of PureTax, LLC, COO for Harper & Company CPAs Plus, and Co-host of the Empowering Entrepreneurs podcast.  Named CPA.com's 2021 Innovative Practitioner of Year, Julie led Harper & Company's transition to an advisory-focused firm, doubling revenue and profit in two years. She now empowers other CPA firm owners nationwide through consulting and speaking, teaching them how to run their businesses like entrepreneurs. Julie lives in Columbus, OH with her family and enjoys travel, coaching basketball, sporting events, and the occasional shopping spree. Copyright 2026 Glenn Harper Mentioned in this episode: Brought to you by Harper & Company CPAs Plus Running a business takes vision, grit… and the right financial partner. At Harper & Company CPAs Plus, we don’t just crunch numbers—we empower entrepreneurs. From proactive tax strategy and accounting to business advisory services, our team helps you keep more of what you earn and scale with confidence. Whether you’re launching, growing, or preparing for exit, Harper & Company is in your corner with expert guidance built for business owners like you. Visit www.harpercpaplus.com to book a complimentary discovery call today - or call us at 614-456-7222. Brought to you by Harper & Company CPAs Plus

  5. Aug 5

    Understanding Conflicting Business Decision-Making Styles

    Discover practical strategies for managing different leadership styles in your business with Glenn Harper and Julie Smith. Are you struggling to collaborate with a business partner, co-founder, or leadership team member whose style drastically differs from yours? In this episode, Glenn Harper and Julie Smith reveal how they’ve navigated—and leveraged—their drastically different decision-making approaches for long-term entrepreneurial success. From explosive, quick-action responses to measured, methodical problem-solving, they break down the realities of working with opposites. Listeners will find actionable insights and plenty of practical analogies (including grenades, tanks, and sandboxes!) to guide their own leadership growth. What you’ll learn in this episode: The pros and cons of assertive vs. methodical decision-making styles 00:33Why understanding your partner’s conflict resolution style is key to business success 01:31How to pause, communicate, and choose the right approach for each situation 05:26Tips for listening actively and separating the problem from the people involved 07:03When to escalate—and when to soothe—conflicts for the best business outcomes This episode is brought to you by PureTax, LLC. Tax preparation services without the pressure. When all you need is to get your tax return done, take the stress out of tax season by working with a firm that has simplified the process and the pricing. Find out more about how we started. 5 Frequently Asked Questions Why is it important to understand different leadership styles in entrepreneurship? - Understanding various leadership styles allows business partners and leaders to work together effectively, adapt to different situations, and make better decisions as a team 01:16.What are common challenges when partners have different decision-making styles? - Partners may struggle with disagreements, misunderstand communication, or take conflicting actions, which can cause tension or disrupt progress 00:33.How can entrepreneurs resolve conflicts arising from style differences? - By pausing before reacting, openly communicating intentions, and listening to each other’s perspectives, entrepreneurs can choose the most effective solution for each scenario 05:26.Is one leadership style better than another in business? - No single style is always right; both assertive and nurturing approaches have value, and circumstances dictate which is most effective 01:33.What practical steps can leaders take to improve collaboration with different styles? - Actively listen, separate the problem from the individual, discuss potential resolutions together, and be willing to try both approaches as appropriate 07:03. Running a business doesn’t have to run your life. Without a business partner who holds you accountable, it’s easy to be so busy ‘doing’ business that you don’t have the right strategy to grow your business. Stop letting your business run you. At Harper & Co CPA Plus, we know that you want to be empowered to build the lifestyle you envision. In order to do that you need a clear path to follow for success Our clients enjoy a proactive partnership with us. Schedule a consultation with us today. Download our free guide - Entrepreneurial Success Formula: How to Avoid Managing Your Business From Your Bank Account. Glenn Harper, CPA, is the Owner and Managing Partner of Harper & Company CPAs Plus, a top 10 Managing Partner in the country (Accounting Today's 2022 MP Elite). His firm won the 2021 Luca Award for Firm of the Year.  An entrepreneur and speaker, Glenn transformed his firm into an advisory-focused practice, doubling revenue and profit in two years. He teaches entrepreneurs to build financial and operational excellence, speaks nationwide to CPA firm owners about running their businesses like entrepreneurs, and consults with firms across the country. Glenn enjoys golfing, fishing, hiking, cooking, and spending time with his family. Julie Smith, MBA, is a serial entrepreneur in the public accounting space. She is the Founder of EmpowerCPA™, Founder of PureTax, LLC, COO for Harper & Company CPAs Plus, and Co-host of the Empowering Entrepreneurs podcast.  Named CPA.com's 2021 Innovative Practitioner of Year, Julie led Harper & Company's transition to an advisory-focused firm, doubling revenue and profit in two years. She now empowers other CPA firm owners nationwide through consulting and speaking, teaching them how to run their businesses like entrepreneurs. Julie lives in Columbus, OH with her family and enjoys travel, coaching basketball, sporting events, and the occasional shopping spree. https://creativecommons.org/licenses/by-nd/4.0/ Copyright 2026 Glenn Harper Mentioned in this episode: Brought to you by Harper & Company CPAs Plus Running a business takes vision, grit… and the right financial partner. At Harper & Company CPAs Plus, we don’t just crunch numbers—we empower entrepreneurs. From proactive tax strategy and accounting to business advisory services, our team helps you keep more of what you earn and scale with confidence. Whether you’re launching, growing, or preparing for exit, Harper & Company is in your corner with expert guidance built for business owners like you. Visit www.harpercpaplus.com to book a complimentary discovery call today - or call us at 614-456-7222. Brought to you by Harper & Company CPAs Plus

  6. Jul 29

    How Entrepreneurs Handle Hard Talks With Family and Teams

    Learn what makes entrepreneurial conversations with family, staff, and funders so challenging, and how to address them confidently. Starting—or growing—a business isn't just about grit and hustle. Sometimes, the toughest part is having difficult conversations with the people who matter most. Glenn Harper and Julie Smith look into what makes these moments so challenging and how to approach them with clarity and confidence. Key Takeaways: Transition Talks Are Critical: Whether it's telling your employer you're leaving, sharing your dream with your spouse, or explaining your vision to friends and family, it's tough to put your entrepreneurial drive into words others understand (Glenn Harper at 00:33).Confidence Is Contagious: How you frame your plan—confidently presenting your vision and preparation—shapes how much support you’ll receive from those around you (Julie Smith at 02:29).Tough Conversations Never End: Success and failure both require direct discussions, whether it's about reinvesting in the business or facing setbacks with transparency and a plan (Glenn Harper at 04:40, 05:18). Running a business doesn’t have to run your life. Without a business partner who holds you accountable, it’s easy to be so busy ‘doing’ business that you don’t have the right strategy to grow your business. Stop letting your business run you. At Harper & Co CPA Plus, we know that you want to be empowered to build the lifestyle you envision. In order to do that you need a clear path to follow for success Our clients enjoy a proactive partnership with us. Schedule a consultation with us today. Download our free guide - Entrepreneurial Success Formula: How to Avoid Managing Your Business From Your Bank Account. FAQ's About How Entrepreneurs Handle Hard Talks With Family and Teams What are the hardest conversations entrepreneurs face when starting a business? The hardest conversations entrepreneurs face often involve telling employers, spouses, children, and friends about their decision to leave stable jobs and pursue a new venture, as discussed by Glenn Harper and Julie Smith. These talks are challenging because others may not understand the entrepreneur's mindset or vision, making it difficult to articulate their reasons and address doubts 00:33–01:23. How should entrepreneurs approach discussing their new venture with family and supporters? Entrepreneurs should approach discussions with family and supporters by clearly communicating their vision, having a confident plan, and directly addressing potential concerns or objections. Glenn Harper recommends presenting a well-thought-out strategy, explaining the financial plan, and specifying the support needed, which helps make these conversations easier and more productive 02:07–02:21. Why is confidence important when explaining your entrepreneurial decisions to others? Confidence is crucial when explaining entrepreneurial decisions because it reassures supporters and helps them believe in the venture. As Julie Smith explains, when entrepreneurs lack confidence, others may also doubt the plan, but a clear, purposeful vision encourages buy-in and support from those around them 02:29–02:45. Running a business doesn’t have to run your life. Without a business partner who holds you accountable, it’s easy to be so busy ‘doing’ business that you don’t have the right strategy to grow your business. Stop letting your business run you. At Harper & Co CPA Plus, we know that you want to be empowered to build the lifestyle you envision. In order to do that you need a clear path to follow for success Our clients enjoy a proactive partnership with us. Schedule a consultation with us today. Download our free guide - Entrepreneurial Success Formula: How to Avoid Managing Your Business From Your Bank Account. Glenn Harper, CPA, is the Owner and Managing Partner of Harper & Company CPAs Plus, a top 10 Managing Partner in the country (Accounting Today's 2022 MP Elite). His firm won the 2021 Luca Award for Firm of the Year.  An entrepreneur and speaker, Glenn transformed his firm into an advisory-focused practice, doubling revenue and profit in two years. He teaches entrepreneurs to build financial and operational excellence, speaks nationwide to CPA firm owners about running their businesses like entrepreneurs, and consults with firms across the country. Glenn enjoys golfing, fishing, hiking, cooking, and spending time with his family. Julie Smith, MBA, is a serial entrepreneur in the public accounting space. She is the Founder of EmpowerCPA™, Founder of PureTax, LLC, COO for Harper & Company CPAs Plus, and Co-host of the Empowering Entrepreneurs podcast.  Named CPA.com's 2021 Innovative Practitioner of Year, Julie led Harper & Company's transition to an advisory-focused firm, doubling revenue and profit in two years. She now empowers other CPA firm owners nationwide through consulting and speaking, teaching them how to run their businesses like entrepreneurs. Julie lives in Columbus, OH with her family and enjoys travel, coaching basketball, sporting events, and the occasional shopping spree. https://creativecommons.org/licenses/by-nd/4.0/ Copyright 2026 Glenn Harper Mentioned in this episode: Brought to you by Harper & Company CPAs Plus Running a business takes vision, grit… and the right financial partner. At Harper & Company CPAs Plus, we don’t just crunch numbers—we empower entrepreneurs. From proactive tax strategy and accounting to business advisory services, our team helps you keep more of what you earn and scale with confidence. Whether you’re launching, growing, or preparing for exit, Harper & Company is in your corner with expert guidance built for business owners like you. Visit www.harpercpaplus.com to book a complimentary discovery call today - or call us at 614-456-7222. Brought to you by Harper & Company CPAs Plus

  7. Jul 22

    How Chasing Every Opportunity Can Ruin Your Business

    The Real Reasons Small Mistakes Kill Businesses Today Have you ever wondered why so many promising businesses quietly fail—not from catastrophic mistakes, but from tiny, often overlooked missteps? In this eye-opening episode, Glenn Harper and Julie Smith reveal the small things that slowly erode business success: lack of purpose, scattered focus, and the avalanche of overwhelming opportunities. Through candid conversation, personal anecdotes, and actionable insights, they dissect why even the most driven entrepreneurs can lose their way without a clear vision and decisive action. If you're tired of feeling stuck or distracted in your business journey, this episode will challenge your thinking and reignite your determination. Discover how pausing for clarity could be the most powerful tool for business survival. And why sometimes, the things you ignore are the ones killing your dreams. This episode is brought to you by PureTax, LLC. Tax preparation services without the pressure. When all you need is to get your tax return done, take the stress out of tax season by working with a firm that has simplified the process and the pricing. Find out more about how we started. 3 Key Takeaways: Define your purpose early and let it guide every major business decision.Don’t let opportunities turn into distractions—capture ideas, but finish your current race first.Take intentional time to reflect, focus, and see beyond today’s fires toward long-term success. FAQ's What small habits or decisions are causing businesses to fail today? Glenn Harper and Julie Smith explain that a lack of purpose, unclear decision-making, and constantly chasing new opportunities without direction are small but critical reasons businesses struggle or fail. Entrepreneurs often lack awareness around profit, inventory, and their actual goals, leading to poor daily decisions. How can entrepreneurs avoid getting distracted by too many opportunities? Glenn Harper suggests entrepreneurs should clearly define their main goal, make intentional decisions, and set aside new opportunities for later instead of jumping on every idea immediately. Staying focused helps ensure consistent progress toward the primary objective rather than being derailed by distractions. Why is having a clear purpose so crucial for business success? According to Glenn Harper and Julie Smith, a clear purpose allows entrepreneurs to answer every other business question and make better decisions. Purpose acts as a guiding star, helping teams prioritize actions and avoid decision paralysis or distraction by less important opportunities. Running a business doesn’t have to run your life. Without a business partner who holds you accountable, it’s easy to be so busy ‘doing’ business that you don’t have the right strategy to grow your business. Stop letting your business run you. At Harper & Co CPA Plus, we know that you want to be empowered to build the lifestyle you envision. In order to do that you need a clear path to follow for success Our clients enjoy a proactive partnership with us. Schedule a consultation with us today. Download our free guide - Entrepreneurial Success Formula: How to Avoid Managing Your Business From Your Bank Account. Glenn Harper, CPA, is the Owner and Managing Partner of Harper & Company CPAs Plus, a top 10 Managing Partner in the country (Accounting Today's 2022 MP Elite). His firm won the 2021 Luca Award for Firm of the Year.  An entrepreneur and speaker, Glenn transformed his firm into an advisory-focused practice, doubling revenue and profit in two years. He teaches entrepreneurs to build financial and operational excellence, speaks nationwide to CPA firm owners about running their businesses like entrepreneurs, and consults with firms across the country. Glenn enjoys golfing, fishing, hiking, cooking, and spending time with his family. Julie Smith, MBA, is a serial entrepreneur in the public accounting space. She is the Founder of EmpowerCPA™, Founder of PureTax, LLC, COO for Harper & Company CPAs Plus, and Co-host of the Empowering Entrepreneurs podcast.  Named CPA.com's 2021 Innovative Practitioner of Year, Julie led Harper & Company's transition to an advisory-focused firm, doubling revenue and profit in two years. She now empowers other CPA firm owners nationwide through consulting and speaking, teaching them how to run their businesses like entrepreneurs. Julie lives in Columbus, OH with her family and enjoys travel, coaching basketball, sporting events, and the occasional shopping spree. https://creativecommons.org/licenses/by-nd/4.0/ Copyright 2026 Glenn Harper Mentioned in this episode: Brought to you by Harper & Company CPAs Plus Running a business takes vision, grit… and the right financial partner. At Harper & Company CPAs Plus, we don’t just crunch numbers—we empower entrepreneurs. From proactive tax strategy and accounting to business advisory services, our team helps you keep more of what you earn and scale with confidence. Whether you’re launching, growing, or preparing for exit, Harper & Company is in your corner with expert guidance built for business owners like you. Visit www.harpercpaplus.com to book a complimentary discovery call today - or call us at 614-456-7222. Brought to you by Harper & Company CPAs Plus

  8. Jul 15

    Scaling Up or Staying Small: The Truth About Business Growth

    Success doesn’t have to mean “big.” Shape your business to fit your own vision and happiness, not someone else’s expectations. Glenn Harper and Julie Smith discuss the age-old question: is bigger always better when it comes to business? As they talk about the pressures entrepreneurs face to constantly scale and grow, Glenn Harper and Julie Smith explore why some of the best businesses intentionally stay small — focusing on profitability, purpose, and personal satisfaction over sheer size. Together, they uncover the importance of quiet reflection, defining your own vision for success, and tuning out the noise from social media and peers. Whether you dream of running a multinational company or a boutique operation, this episode will help you clarify your goals and find fulfillment on your entrepreneurial journey. Here are 3 key takeaways for any business leader considering their next move: Define Your Own Success - Don’t let external noise dictate your goals. Ask yourself what truly makes you happy and fulfilled in your business (03:00). Is it maximizing profits, impacting more clients, or maintaining flexibility and control?Intentional Planning is Essential - Growth for growth’s sake isn’t always the answer. Carve out quiet time away from daily tasks (preferably on a mountain, according to Glenn Harper!) to reflect on the future you want and map a path to get there (02:19).Scaling Requires Support - If growth is your goal, don’t go at it alone. Building a great team or hiring experienced consultants can make scaling more manageable and successful (01:31; 04:04). This episode is brought to you by PureTax, LLC. Tax preparation services without the pressure. When all you need is to get your tax return done, take the stress out of tax season by working with a firm that has simplified the process and the pricing. Find out more about how we started. FAQ's Is it better for a business to stay small or try to scale up? Glenn Harper and Julie Smith discuss that "better" depends on the entrepreneur's vision and goals. Some find more satisfaction and profitability by staying small, while others thrive by scaling up and building large teams 00:33 01:58. Ultimately, choosing the right path means assessing personal happiness and business objectives rather than blindly following growth trends. How can entrepreneurs decide what size they want their business to be? Glenn Harper recommends entrepreneurs spend quiet, uninterrupted time away from daily tasks to reflect deeply on what makes them happy and what they truly want their business to be 02:19 02:50. By tuning out outside noise and societal expectations, they can clarify their own definitions of success before committing to growth or staying small. What steps should business owners take before scaling their company? Before scaling, Glenn Harper suggests entrepreneurs clarify their vision, assemble the right team, and seek guidance from experienced consultants 01:26 04:04. He emphasizes that attempting to scale alone is very difficult, so learning from others can dramatically improve the process. Running a business doesn’t have to run your life. Without a business partner who holds you accountable, it’s easy to be so busy ‘doing’ business that you don’t have the right strategy to grow your business. Stop letting your business run you. At Harper & Co CPA Plus, we know that you want to be empowered to build the lifestyle you envision. In order to do that you need a clear path to follow for success Our clients enjoy a proactive partnership with us. Schedule a consultation with us today. Download our free guide - Entrepreneurial Success Formula: How to Avoid Managing Your Business From Your Bank Account. Glenn Harper, CPA, is the Owner and Managing Partner of Harper & Company CPAs Plus, a top 10 Managing Partner in the country (Accounting Today's 2022 MP Elite). His firm won the 2021 Luca Award for Firm of the Year.  An entrepreneur and speaker, Glenn transformed his firm into an advisory-focused practice, doubling revenue and profit in two years. He teaches entrepreneurs to build financial and operational excellence, speaks nationwide to CPA firm owners about running their businesses like entrepreneurs, and consults with firms across the country. Glenn enjoys golfing, fishing, hiking, cooking, and spending time with his family. Julie Smith, MBA, is a serial entrepreneur in the public accounting space. She is the Founder of EmpowerCPA™, Founder of PureTax, LLC, COO for Harper & Company CPAs Plus, and Co-host of the Empowering Entrepreneurs podcast.  Named CPA.com's 2021 Innovative Practitioner of Year, Julie led Harper & Company's transition to an advisory-focused firm, doubling revenue and profit in two years. She now empowers other CPA firm owners nationwide through consulting and speaking, teaching them how to run their businesses like entrepreneurs. Julie lives in Columbus, OH with her family and enjoys travel, coaching basketball, sporting events, and the occasional shopping spree. https://creativecommons.org/licenses/by-nd/4.0/ Copyright 2026 Glenn Harper Mentioned in this episode: Brought to you by Harper & Company CPAs Plus Running a business takes vision, grit… and the right financial partner. At Harper & Company CPAs Plus, we don’t just crunch numbers—we empower entrepreneurs. From proactive tax strategy and accounting to business advisory services, our team helps you keep more of what you earn and scale with confidence. Whether you’re launching, growing, or preparing for exit, Harper & Company is in your corner with expert guidance built for business owners like you. Visit www.harpercpaplus.com to book a complimentary discovery call today - or call us at 614-456-7222. Brought to you by Harper & Company CPAs Plus

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About

Join Glenn Harper and Julie Smith as they help you build your brand and gain confidence as an entrepreneur. Explore key topics like business growth, mentorship, and overcoming challenges. Their guests bring intriguing and entertaining clarity to help you increase your confidence in building your business (and enjoy your journey doing it). Drive your passion, grow your business, and empower your journey today!

Information

  • Creator
    Glenn Harper
  • Years Active
    2021 - 2026
  • Episodes
    139
  • Rating
    Clean
  • Copyright
    © Copyright 2026 Glenn Harper
  • Show Website
    Empowering Entrepreneurs