Virtual Rolodex hosted by TXCPA Houston

Kristie Ondracek
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Kristie will be interviewing selected individuals to let you know who they are, what they do, and why they need to be in your own virtual rolodex. These individuals are subject matter experts, authors, speakers, and members who are willing to share their story.

  1. 6d ago

    Virtual Rolodex with Scott Pooch

    Beyond the Numbers: Becoming a Trusted Advisor and Helping Business Owners Plan for the Future   Episode Summary   Are you simply providing a service to your clients, or are you becoming the trusted advisor they turn to when important business decisions arise?   In this episode of TXCPA Houston Virtual Rolodex, Kristie Ondracek sits down with Scott Pooch, a longtime 401(k) professional with a background in coaching and teaching, to explore how CPAs and other professional service providers can move beyond transactional relationships and become indispensable resources for their clients.   Scott shares insights on helping business owners prepare for the future through proactive exit planning, retirement plan optimization, employee retention, and operational improvements. They discuss why business owners often avoid conversations about leaving their businesses, how to reduce a company's dependence on its owner, and why preparing for an eventual exit can create a stronger, more valuable business today.   The conversation also highlights the importance of building meaningful client relationships, asking better questions, and providing value beyond traditional accounting and financial services. Whether you're a CPA, business owner, financial advisor, or professional service provider, this episode offers practical strategies for strengthening client relationships while helping businesses prepare for long-term success.   What You'll Learn - Why moving from service provider to trusted advisor is essential for building lasting client relationships - How asking the right questions can uncover opportunities to provide greater value to clients - Why business exit planning should begin years before an owner intends to sell or transition - How retirement plan design and optimization can support tax planning, employee benefits, and wealth diversification - Why operational systems, documented processes, and cross-training increase business sustainability and transferable value - How employee retention and workplace wellness contribute to stronger business performance - Why CPAs should help clients prepare for unexpected ownership transitions—not just planned retirements Key Leadership Insight The true measure of a trusted advisor isn't just the quality of the work you provide. It's whether your clients think of you when they need guidance beyond your specialty.   As Scott explains, one of the best indicators of a trusted relationship is when a client proactively reaches out with a question that has nothing to do with your primary service.   Strong professional relationships are built by understanding the bigger picture, asking thoughtful questions, and connecting clients with the right resources—even when those resources fall outside your expertise. Why This Matters Business owners spend years building their companies, but many never stop to consider what would happen if they could no longer be involved in daily operations.   For CPAs and financial professionals, these conversations present an opportunity to deliver value far beyond tax returns and financial statements.   Helping clients evaluate their retirement plans, strengthen operational processes, retain employees, and prepare for ownership transitions can protect both the business and the owner's financial future.   Scott also introduces the five common reasons owners may exit earlier than expected: death, disability, divorce, disagreement, and disinterest.   The message is clear: Exit planning isn't just about selling a business someday. It's about building a business that can succeed without depending entirely on its owner.   As AI continues to transform professional services, the ability to provide proactive, relationship-driven advice will become an increasingly important differentiator. About the Guest Scott Pooch is a business planning and retirement plan professional with a background in coaching, teaching, and extensive experience in the 401(k) industry.   His work focuses on helping business owners strengthen their companies through retirement plan optimization, employee retention, operational excellence, and business exit preparation.   Through his developing Four-Lever System, Scott emphasizes practical strategies designed to improve business performance, reduce owner dependency, and maximize long-term transferable value. Connect with Scott LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/scott-pooch/ Email: scott@scottpooch.com

  2. Oct 8

    Virtual Rolodex with Julie Thiel Founder, TTS Company

    Don't Assume, Ask: The Leadership Conversations That Build Stronger Teams Episode Summary What if one of the most effective ways to retain your best employees takes just 15 minutes? In this episode of TXCPA Houston Virtual Rolodex, Kristie Ondracek sits down with Julie Thiel of TTS Company, an HR professional with 30 years of experience, to discuss why strong leadership starts with meaningful conversations. While CPAs and finance professionals spend years developing their technical expertise, managing people, communicating effectively, and supporting career development require an entirely different set of skills. Kristie and Julie explore the importance of regular one-on-one meetings, creating opportunities for honest career conversations, and helping employees take ownership of their professional growth. They also discuss how leaders can recognize potential they may not see in themselves, navigate concerns about losing talented employees, and prepare their teams for the demands of busy season. Whether you're a firm leader, manager, emerging professional, or someone looking to take the next step in your career, this conversation offers practical strategies for building trust, strengthening relationships, and creating a workplace where people feel supported and valued. What You'll Learn Why regular 15-minute check-ins can make a meaningful difference in employee engagement and retentionHow leaders can move beyond project updates to have meaningful career development conversationsWhy employees need to communicate their goals, interests, and professional development needsPractical ways to initiate difficult conversations with managers, including preparing an agenda or sending an emailHow mentors and professional networks can help individuals discover opportunities and strengths they may not recognizeWhy succession planning and cross-training are essential when developing and retaining talentHow leaders can better prepare their teams for busy season by asking questions instead of making assumptions Key Leadership Insight Don't assume you know what your employees want or need. Have the conversation. A high-performing employee who wanted a promotion last year may have different priorities today. Career aspirations, personal circumstances, and professional goals change. Great leaders make time to understand those changes rather than relying on assumptions. Sometimes a simple conversation can make all the difference in retaining a valuable team member and building a stronger organization. Why This Matters The accounting profession continues to face challenges related to talent development, employee retention, and changing workplace expectations. While technical expertise remains essential, the ability to lead, listen, communicate, and develop others is increasingly important. For CPA firms, finance departments, and business leaders, investing in regular conversations can help: Strengthen employee engagement and retentionIdentify career development opportunitiesBuild trust between managers and employeesImprove succession planning and knowledge transferCreate stronger, more collaborative teamsPrepare employees and leaders for demanding periods such as busy season And for emerging professionals, the message is equally important: your career development is a shared responsibility. Know what you want, ask questions, seek feedback, and build relationships with people who can help you grow. About the Guest Julie Thiel is an HR and leadership development professional with 30 years of experience in human resources. Through TTS Company, she focuses on helping professionals and organizations strengthen leadership capabilities, improve communication, and develop the people-management skills necessary for successful teams. Julie brings practical insights into employee engagement, career development, leadership training, and building workplace relationships that support both individual and organizational success. Connect with Julie Website: https://thettscompany.com/ LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/juliemthiel/

  3. Sep 4

    Virtual Rolodex with Marques Ogden Founder of Ogden Ventures, LLC

    Your Network Is Human Capital: Why Relationships Matter in Business and Life Episode SummaryTechnical knowledge can open doors, but relationships built on trust can take your career much further. In this episode of TXCPA Houston Virtual Rolodex, Kristie Ondracek sits down with former NFL athlete, entrepreneur, speaker, and business coach Marques Ogden to talk about resilience, relationships, leadership, and the lessons he's learned through both extraordinary success and significant setbacks. Marques shares his journey from the NFL to building a successful construction company, losing it all, and ultimately rebuilding his career after hitting rock bottom. Today, through Ogden Ventures LLC, he uses those experiences to help leaders and organizations strengthen culture, develop their people, and navigate challenges. Most importantly, he reminds professionals—especially those just beginning their careers—that education and expertise matter, but trusted relationships are an equally important investment. What You'll LearnWhy relationships are critical to building a successful career and businessHow authenticity and vulnerability can make leaders more relatable and impactfulWhat Marques learned from losing his business and rebuilding from rock bottomWhy taking responsibility for failure can become the starting point for future successHow listening to your audience or client creates more meaningful solutionsWhy trust can make business relationships more efficient and effectiveWhat young professionals should understand about investing in their "human capital"Key Leadership InsightYour greatest capital isn't always financial capital. It can be human capital. Education, credentials, and technical expertise are important, but careers and businesses are also built through relationships. Invest in people. Build trust. Be curious. Help others. Create a network of people you can learn from, collaborate with, and support. Those relationships may become some of the most valuable assets you build throughout your career. Why This MattersCPAs are trusted advisors, and trust isn't created by technical expertise alone. Clients, colleagues, and business partners want professionals who listen, understand their challenges, communicate authentically, and build genuine relationships. For the next generation of accounting professionals in particular, Marques' message is an important reminder: don't become so focused on earning the credential, mastering the technical skills, and advancing your career that you forget to invest in people. Your professional network isn't simply a list of contacts. It's human capital. About the GuestMarques Ogden is a former NFL athlete, entrepreneur, keynote speaker, business coach, corporate consultant, and founder of Ogden Ventures LLC. After his NFL career, Marques built a successful construction business before experiencing significant financial and professional setbacks. After reaching rock bottom in 2013, he rebuilt his career around speaking, coaching, leadership development, and sharing the lessons he learned through both success and failure. Today, Marques works with organizations across industries, customizing his programs around leadership, culture, resilience, business growth, and performance. His message combines personal experience, vulnerability, and practical strategies designed to help individuals and organizations move forward. Connect with MarquesWebsite: https://marquesogden.com/ LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/marquesogden/

  4. Sep 1

    Virtual Rolodex with Roderick Jefferson, CEP of Roderick Jefferson & Associates

    Success is something we all strive for—but how often do we stop to ask what that success is costing us? In this episode of TXCPA Houston Virtual Rolodex, Kristie Ondracek sits down with Roderick Jefferson, CEO of Roderick Jefferson & Associates, internationally recognized business and transformational speaker, consultant, coach, and two-time bestselling author. After decades of corporate success and surviving two strokes, Roderick brings a powerful perspective to the conversation: professional achievement should never come at the expense of your health, relationships, or the people and experiences that matter most. Roderick shares practical ways professionals can become more intentional with their time, incorporate self-care into their schedules, be fully present, and build structure that creates more—not less—freedom. The conversation also explores work-life wellness, the importance of coaching and accountability, using AI as a business partner, and why remembering your "why" matters throughout every stage of your career. What You'll LearnWhy professional success should always be measured against what it costs youHow choosing just three priorities each day can create greater focus and structureWhy self-care belongs on your calendar just like a client meetingThe difference between physically being in the room and truly being presentHow scheduling breaks and limiting consecutive meetings can improve productivityWhy Roderick focuses on "work-life wellness" rather than work-life balanceHow coaching and accountability can help professionals remain successful without forgetting to be human Key Leadership InsightClimbing the ladder of success is amazing—but not if you lose yourself on the way up. Leadership isn't only about achieving more. It's also about recognizing what matters, creating boundaries, surrounding yourself with the right people, and building a definition of success that includes your health and your life outside of work. Why This MattersCPAs, finance professionals, and business leaders are accustomed to deadlines, packed calendars, high expectations, and the constant pressure to accomplish more. But productivity without intentionality can come at a significant cost. Roderick's message challenges professionals to think differently about success. Building breaks into the calendar, prioritizing what truly matters, delegating to the right people, and creating time to be fully present aren't signs that you're accomplishing less. They can help you become a stronger leader, colleague, advisor, and person. And as AI creates new opportunities to work more efficiently, the question may not be simply, "How much more can I accomplish?" Instead, it may be, "What will I do with the time I get back?" About the Guest Roderick Jefferson is an internationally recognized business and transformational speaker, CEO of Roderick Jefferson & Associates, and a thought leader in sales enablement. Throughout his career, Roderick has held executive leadership, sales, sales enablement, operations, and customer experience roles with organizations including AT&T, Marketo, Oracle, and Salesforce. Today, his work includes fractional consulting, business coaching, keynote speaking, and helping organizations and professionals grow while creating sustainable approaches to success. Roderick is also the author of Sales Enablement 3.0: The Blueprint to Sales Enablement Excellence, the Sales 3.0 Companion Workbook, and Stroke of Success. Drawing on his own experience as a two-time stroke survivor, he shares a powerful message about achievement, health, purpose, and the importance of asking: Success—but at what cost?  Connect with RoderickRoderick Jefferson & Associates Stroke of Success https://roderickjefferson.com/book https://linktr.ee/roderickjefferson

  5. Aug 26

    Virtual Rolodex with Randy Crabtree, Founder of Brainstorm Group

    The Future of Accounting Is Human: Leadership, Purpose and a Profession Worth Getting Excited About Episode Summary The accounting profession is changing quickly—but that doesn't have to be a bad thing. In this episode of TXCPA Houston Virtual Rolodex, Kristie Ondracek sits down with CPA and longtime profession advocate Randy Crabtree to talk about the future of accounting, the importance of people-first leadership, and why today's rapid changes create an opportunity to build a healthier and more fulfilling profession. Randy shares his passion for addressing burnout and mental health, developing more vulnerable and relatable leaders, and helping firms define their purpose beyond the services they provide. They also explore AI, changing expectations around billable hours, the next generation of accounting professionals, and why the future may allow CPAs to spend more time doing what they do best—helping people. What You'll LearnWhy vulnerable leadership can create stronger, more connected teamsHow outdated leadership practices contribute to burnout and talent challengesWhy firms need to define themselves by their purpose—not just their servicesHow knowing who you serve, and who you don't, creates healthier boundariesWhy AI can be an opportunity for the accounting profession rather than simply a threatHow moving beyond an hours-based mindset could reshape accounting careersWhy finding the intersection of your passions and skills can create a more fulfilling careerKey Leadership Insight Great leadership isn't about appearing to have everything figured out. Leaders who are willing to acknowledge mistakes, share what they've learned, and ask for help become more relatable—and create environments where others feel comfortable doing the same. Vulnerability isn't a leadership weakness. It can be one of a leader's greatest strengths. Why This Matters Accounting professionals are navigating significant change: AI, evolving client expectations, new workforce priorities, talent shortages, burnout, and changing business models. But those challenges also give the profession an opportunity to rethink how we work and lead. Organizations that create people-first cultures, clearly understand their purpose, embrace technology, and allow professionals to focus on meaningful work can build stronger teams while attracting a new generation of talent. The future of accounting isn't simply about what technology can do. It's about freeing people to do more of what humans do best—connect, advise, lead, and make an impact. About the Guest Randy Crabtree, CPA, is a longtime advocate for the accounting profession, speaker, podcast host, and recently retired co-founder of specialty tax firm Tri-Merit. After nearly two decades building Tri-Merit, Randy is dedicating the next chapter of his career to helping make the accounting profession the best it can be. His work focuses on mental health awareness, burnout prevention, people-first leadership, managing change, and creating healthier cultures within the profession. He also hosts the Bridging the Gap conference, which brings together accounting professionals to share ideas around mental health, leadership, innovation, and the future of the profession. Connect with the Guest Website: https://www.randycrabtree.com/ LinkedIn:https://www.linkedin.com/in/randy-crabtree-cpa-1945a67/

  6. Jul 15

    Virtual Rolodex with Wayne Basist, Founder and CEO of ESQ Mental Fitness

    Your Mind Is Your Greatest Asset: Building Mental Fitness for Peak Performance Episode Summary In this episode of TXCPA Houston Virtual Rolodex, Kristie Ondracek sits down with Wayne Basist, founder of ESQ Mental Fitness, to discuss a topic that affects every CPA, attorney, and business professional: mental fitness. After a successful legal career, Wayne experienced firsthand the effects of chronic stress, anxiety, burnout, and ultimately a life-changing accident that transformed his purpose. Today, he helps professionals understand the automatic thought patterns that create unnecessary stress and equips them with practical tools to respond with greater clarity, focus, and resilience. Together, Kristie and Wayne explore how professionals can quiet the "mental chatter," improve decision-making under pressure, strengthen relationships, and create healthier workplaces—all while improving performance and personal well-being. Whether you're navigating deadlines, leading a team, or simply trying to balance work and life, this episode offers practical strategies that can make an immediate impact. What You'll Learn Why stress often comes from our internal thought patterns—not just external circumstances How negative "saboteur" thinking impacts performance, relationships, and well-being Practical mindfulness techniques you can use in real time—even during a busy workday Why taking three intentional breaths can reset your focus and decision-making How mental fitness improves productivity, client service, and leadership Why human connection will remain one of the greatest differentiators in an AI-driven profession How choosing your response can transform both your professional and personal life Key Leadership Insight Peak performance doesn't happen by eliminating pressure. It happens by learning how to manage your response to pressure. Leaders who strengthen their mental fitness make better decisions, communicate more effectively, and create healthier teams. Why This Matters Accounting and finance professionals operate in high-pressure environments where deadlines, client expectations, and constant change can easily lead to stress and burnout. Mental fitness isn't just about personal wellness—it directly impacts: decision-making client relationships productivity leadership effectiveness team culture long-term career sustainability As technology continues to automate technical work, professionals who develop emotional resilience and authentic human connection will create lasting value for both clients and organizations. About the Guest Wayne Basist is the Founder and CEO of ESQ Mental Fitness. A former commercial litigation and corporate bankruptcy attorney, Wayne combines his legal experience with specialized training in mental fitness to help attorneys, CPAs, and business professionals reduce stress, improve focus, and perform at their highest level. Drawing from both personal experience and evidence-based practices, Wayne teaches professionals how to recognize self-sabotaging thought patterns, build resilience, and strengthen the mental skills needed to thrive in demanding careers. Connect with the Guest Website: www.esqmentalfitness.com  LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/wayne-basist-mentalfitness/  Your Mind Is Your Greatest Asset: Building Mental Fitness for Peak Performance

  7. Jul 13

    Virtual Rolodex with Dana Garnett of The Mindful Strategy

    Conflict Is Inevitable. Drama Is Optional: How to Resolve Conflict Before It Costs Your Business Episode Summary In this episode of TXCPA Houston Virtual Rolodex, Kristie Ondracek welcomes Dana Garnett, founder of The Mindful Strategy, to discuss a challenge every professional faces but few are equipped to navigate effectively—conflict. Drawing from her unique career journey from Big Eight public accounting and corporate leadership at Coca-Cola to mediation and conflict resolution coaching, Dana shares how unresolved conflict impacts businesses, partnerships, families, and individual well-being. She explains why traditional mediation often settles disputes, while her approach focuses on achieving lasting resolution by getting to the heart of the issue. Whether you're a CPA, business owner, firm leader, or trusted advisor, this conversation offers practical strategies for recognizing conflict early, improving communication, and preventing small disagreements from becoming costly business problems. What You'll Learn Why avoiding conflict often creates bigger problems than addressing it The difference between conflict resolution and conflict settlement How unresolved conflict affects business performance, relationships, and personal well-being Why only one person is needed to begin creating meaningful change Common warning signs that conflict is costing your business time and money How CPAs and trusted advisors can help clients recognize conflict before it damages assets or relationships Why every difficult situation begins with a choice—and every choice creates a new opportunity Key Leadership Insight Conflict isn't the real problem. The real problem is allowing unresolved conflict to consume your energy, decision-making, and relationships. Strong leaders don't avoid difficult conversations—they learn how to navigate them with clarity and purpose. Why This Matters Conflict is expensive. It impacts productivity, profitability, employee retention, client relationships, succession planning, and even personal health. For CPAs and business advisors, recognizing conflict early can help clients avoid unnecessary legal costs, protect business value, strengthen partnerships, and improve long-term organizational success. Learning how to navigate conflict isn't just a leadership skill—it's a business strategy. About the Guest Dana Garnett is the founder of The Mindful Strategy and a conflict resolution strategist with a unique background spanning Big Eight public accounting, corporate leadership, mediation, and executive coaching. After beginning her career in audit and later serving in leadership roles with The Coca-Cola Company, Dana developed a proven approach that helps business owners, executives, and professionals resolve complex conflict quickly while creating lasting change. Her work focuses on strengthening relationships, improving communication, and helping leaders navigate inevitable challenges with greater ease. Connect with the Guest Website: The Mindful Strategy LinkedIn: Dana Garnett Dana Garnett Credentialed Advanced Mediator & Conflict Resolution Strategist dana@mindfulstrategy.com | mindfulstrategy.com

  8. Jul 2

    Virtual Rolodex with Dez Thornton, Executive Presence & Speech Coach

    The Influence Gap: How Great CPAs Become Great Communicators Episode Summary In this episode of TXCPA Houston Virtual Rolodex, Kristie Ondracek welcomes communication and presentation coach Dez Thornton to discuss a skill every accounting professional needs—but few receive formal training on: communicating with confidence. While CPAs excel at analyzing data and solving complex problems, Dez explains that technical expertise alone isn't enough to influence clients, lead teams, or inspire confidence. Whether presenting financial statements, leading meetings, or speaking at conferences, professionals must learn how to connect with people—not just present information. Together, they explore practical techniques for becoming a stronger communicator, including storytelling, audience connection, presentation preparation, and overcoming perfectionism. The result is a conversation packed with actionable advice for professionals at every stage of their career. What You'll Learn Why technical expertise doesn't automatically translate into influence How storytelling helps clients better understand financial information The difference between focusing on yourself versus focusing on your audience Why connection matters more than perfection in presentations Practical ways to prepare for presentations using visual mapping How video practice accelerates confidence and communication skills Why authentic communication will remain a competitive advantage in an AI-driven world Key Leadership Insight People don't remember every number you present—they remember how you made them feel and whether they trusted you. The most effective leaders focus less on delivering information and more on creating meaningful connections with their audience. Why This Matters Today's CPAs are expected to do much more than prepare financial reports. They advise clients, lead teams, present to boards, facilitate meetings, and explain complex financial concepts to non-financial audiences. Developing stronger communication skills helps professionals: build trust faster strengthen client relationships become more influential leaders communicate complex topics with confidence differentiate themselves in an increasingly technology-driven profession As AI continues to automate technical work, human connection will become one of the profession's greatest competitive advantages. About the Guest Dez Thornton is a communication coach who helps business leaders, executives, and professionals close what he calls the "Influence Gap"—the space between having expertise and being able to communicate it effectively. With more than 20 years of experience coaching leaders across multiple industries, Dez specializes in presentation coaching, executive communication, storytelling, and helping professionals connect with audiences in ways that inspire trust and action. Connect with the Guest Website: Dez Thornton & Associates LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/dezthornton/

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Kristie will be interviewing selected individuals to let you know who they are, what they do, and why they need to be in your own virtual rolodex. These individuals are subject matter experts, authors, speakers, and members who are willing to share their story.

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