Protea Conversations

Zane Stevens

Protea Conversations is the podcast for accountants and service-firm leaders. Each episode is a real, unscripted conversation with someone in or around the accounting profession about the careers, decisions, and hard-won lessons behind their success. These aren't polished panel talks. Our guests share what actually shaped them. The pivotal moments, the mistakes, the advice they'd give their younger selves — so you walk away with practical insight you can use in your own career or firm. Whether you're early in your career or running your own practice, you'll find honest stories and useful takeaways in every episode. New conversations regularly.

  1. Episode 60 - Seth Fineberg - How a Non-Accountant Revolutionized Thinking About the Future of Accounting

    6일 전

    Episode 60 - Seth Fineberg - How a Non-Accountant Revolutionized Thinking About the Future of Accounting

    Protea Conversations is the podcast for accountants and service-firm leaders. Subscribe to the channel! Meet Seth! Join us as Seth Fineberg, a seasoned journalist and analyst with nearly 30 years at the forefront of accounting technology and culture, shares his unique perspective on the evolving profession. Discover strategies for navigating digital transformation, fostering innovation, and building resilient firms for the future. In this episode, we discuss: - Seth's non-traditional path into the accounting world and his superpower of perspective - The impact of community and culture in New York, including notable celebrity encounters - Seth's musical journey with the band Blackout Shoppers and the importance of outside passions - How his journalism career shaped his understanding of trends like AI and cloud technology - Practical advice for accountants feeling overwhelmed by change and innovation - The importance of authentic content and meaningful relationships in building trust - Personal favorites: NYC's best restaurants and unforgettable shows Timestamps: 02:19 - Seth's perspective as a superpower in the industry 03:18 - Parenting experiences in NYC and suburban lessons 04:39 - Diversity, culture, and the NYC lifestyle's influence on family 07:36 - Seth’s involvement in the local music scene and band Blackout Shoppers 08:53 - Parenting passions—sports, activities, and balancing work-life 10:19 - Celebrity sightings and memorable NYC encounters 17:14 - The importance of passions outside work for a fulfilling life 20:46 - Seth's love for baseball and thoughts on the game’s modernization 23:16 - Evaluating changes in the sport's pace and competitive nature 25:10 - Seth’s journalism career: From college to interviewing Jeff Bezos 32:32 - Recognizing gaps in the accounting profession and mindset shifts 33:01 - The role of trust and content in client relationships 34:24 - Seth’s work with Accountants Forward and content marketing strategies 46:36 - A day in Seth’s life: routines, work blocks, and personal time 54:55 - Navigating the profession's biggest inflection points and future trends 57:42 - Final advice: prioritize self-care, embrace technology, and start small 58:09 - Rapid Fire Questions: Dream vacations, NYC shows, favorite restaurants, and more Connect with Seth: Personal LinkedIn - https://www.linkedin.com/in/seth-fineberg-86aa8663/ Website - https://accountantsforward.com This is episode 60

    57분
  2. Episode 59 - Diana Gleason - What I Gained from Gary Vaynerchuk's Mentorship

    6월 10일

    Episode 59 - Diana Gleason - What I Gained from Gary Vaynerchuk's Mentorship

    Meet Diana! Discover how Diana Gleason transitioned from a professional dancer to building a thriving six-figure accounting firm, and her insights into scaling a service-based business, leadership, and personal growth. Main Topics: - Diana’s unconventional path from dance to accounting - Building and scaling DG Accounting Agency - Leadership, systems, and operational strategies for growth - Balancing entrepreneurship with family life In this episode: - Diana shares her inspiring story of pivoting careers and establishing her firm - Key lessons learned from scaling her business and building a team - How her background in dance instilled resilience and discipline - Practical strategies for creating systems and empowering employees - Her vision of the future: becoming CEO and eventual business sale Timestamps: 00:00 - Introduction to Diana Gleason and her unique journey from dancer to accountant 01:05 - Celebrating five years in business and recognizing milestones 02:12 - Evolving roles within her firm and operational growth 04:56 - How a leadership program with Gary Vaynerchuk influenced her mindset 09:45 - Leadership style adjustments for team empowerment 16:44 - Balancing motherhood and entrepreneurship while managing physical health 24:47 - Connecting with her passion for supporting dance studios and small businesses 27:29 - Her mission to humanize accounting and provide judgment-free financial support 32:09 - The value of honesty combined with compassion in client conversations 34:45 - Recognizing warning signs of potential business trouble 37:39 - Insights into her leadership program with Gary Vaynerchuk at VaynerX 45:17 - Day in the life: balancing family, business meetings, and sales efforts 48:24 - Future goals: becoming CEO and eventually selling her firm 51:02 - Personal interests, hobbies, and the importance of continuous growth 54:50 - Rapid-fire segment: dream vacation, favorite tech, and more Connect with Diana: Personal Instagram - https://www.instagram.com/dianagleason/ LinkedIn - https://www.linkedin.com/in/dianagleason/

    53분
  3. Episode 58 - Cash East - The Courage to Take Big Swings

    5월 27일

    Episode 58 - Cash East - The Courage to Take Big Swings

    Meet Cash! Discover how Cash East transitioned from a childhood love of fly fishing to building innovative software tools that revolutionize real estate investing and bookkeeping. Gain insights into the importance of data, the value of trusting a team, and embracing risk to grow professionally and personally. In this episode: - Cash shares his unique family history and the story behind his distinctive name, Cash. - How his childhood passions led him into entrepreneurship and environmental science. - The evolution from environmental consulting to environmental accounting and software development. - The critical role of data, discipline, and teamwork in his success. - The influence of habits, travel, and outdoor hobbies on his professional journey. - Vision and short-term goals for his innovative software and investment projects. Timestamps: 00:00 - Introduction to Cash East and his intriguing family history 01:26 - Childhood experiences and family influences on careers 02:04 - The story behind the name "Cash" and its impact 02:25 - Early career in finance, accounting, and environmental consulting 03:16 - Transition from biology to environmental business models 05:02 - Starting entrepreneurial ventures in fly fishing gear 11:11 - Balancing family and professional pursuits 13:03 - The attraction of entrepreneurship and control over destiny 14:25 - Using data and models in supply chain and environmental work 17:43 - Challenges in making data understandable and actionable for business owners 20:01 - Entry into real estate investments and learning to analyze deals 26:35 - The mindset needed for taking calculated risks and big swings 28:19 - The importance of data and trusting the right people in decision-making 32:11 - Surrounding yourself with reliable partners and team members 37:41 - Transitioning to managed properties and improving operational efficiency 41:04 - Creating a unified platform for bookkeeping and financial oversight 43:15 - The role of AI in automating tasks and freeing up entrepreneurs' time 45:54 - The value of time back from automation and AI tools 49:05 - Short-term goals: expanding the bookkeeping tool and community engagement 50:29 - Embracing AI growth and upcoming opportunities in tech 51:07 - Rapid fire questions: favorite books, exercise, travel preferences, tech tools, and final meal Connect with Cash: Personal X - https://x.com/CashionEast Kestrel - https://kestrelrms.com/

    55분
  4. Episode 57 - Jeff Okrepkie - From Fire Recovery to Public Service

    5월 13일

    Episode 57 - Jeff Okrepkie - From Fire Recovery to Public Service

    Meet Jeff! Explore Jeff Okrepkie's inspiring story of resilience, community rebuilding, and servant leadership, shaped by personal tragedy and dedicated public service. This conversation delves into his unique approach to leadership, built on humility and a profound sense of community obligation. In this episode: - Jeff shares how experiencing the Tubbs Fire in 2017 transformed his life and propelled him into public service. - Insights into the importance of ground truth and humility in leadership, especially during crises. - The role of community-led recovery initiatives like Coffey Strong and how grassroots efforts can inspire systemic change. - Practical advice for citizens eager to get involved locally, emphasizing volunteerism and stepping out of comfort zones. - Strategies for leaders on managing ego, fostering teamwork, and making informed decisions grounded in real-world experience. - Jeff relates his insurance expertise to his public decision-making, highlighting risk analysis and community safety. Timestamps: 02:21 - How losing his home in the Tubbs Fire catalyzed community efforts 04:34 - The grassroots creation of Coffey Strong neighborhood recovery model 07:54 - Jeff's transition from community volunteer to city council member 09:12 - Lessons from early government work with Senator John McCain 14:10 - Emotional toll and community support after disasters 17:42 - Applying lessons learned from fires to local policy and community resilience 21:44 - The influence of family background on Jeff’s service philosophy 27:11 - The importance of humility and teamwork in leadership success 29:05 - Leadership lessons: Ego, humility, and surround yourself with experts 33:47 - Balancing a day job in insurance with public service responsibilities 37:11 - Jeff’s journey in the insurance industry, shaped by economic downturns 44:20 - Balancing family, sports, and travel with civic duty 47:09 - Rapid fire: Dream vacation, favorite books, and childhood memories The insights from Jeff’s personal story underscore that leadership often emerges from adversity, grounded in humility, service, and a passion for community resilience. Whether tackling local wildfire recovery or engaging in civic duties, his journey exemplifies how purpose-driven by legacy and values can inspire actionable change at every level. Connect with Jeff: Personal LinkedIn - https://www.linkedin.com/in/jeffokrepkie/

    52분
  5. Episode 56 - Paul Schwartz - Strategies for effective networking and communication

    5월 6일

    Episode 56 - Paul Schwartz - Strategies for effective networking and communication

    Meet Paul! In this episode, Paul Schwartz shares his insights on how Sonoma County's market has remained resilient post-COVID, highlighting the strength of owner-user markets despite economic pressures. He emphasizes the importance of control and flexibility in owning commercial space, along with the attractiveness of SBA financing options. He sares his journey with Leadership Santa Rosa's origin, purpose, and lasting impact on fostering community collaboration and developing future leaders are explored. Paul provides practical advice on building professional networks, maintaining relevance, and continuous learning to stay ahead in the industry. The importance of clear communication, listening, and speaking at clients' levels is highlighted for success. Timestamps: 01:20 - Sonoma County real estate market stability post-COVID 05:41 - The current investment climate and cap rate adjustments 10:12 - Paul's career journey from nonprofit management to real estate 13:14 - Changes in commercial real estate over 35 years 18:21 - Strategies for staying current and successful 21:30 - The role of continuous learning and curiosity 23:04 - Negotiation and communication skills 26:30 - Effective networking and building relationships 35:30 - Leadership Santa Rosa's history and community impact 38:26 - Keys to leadership longevity and community relevance 41:30 - The best advice Paul has received 43:23 - Personal interests and hobbies outside real estate 45:24 - Rapid fire questions: dream vacation, books, fitness, friendships, final meal Connect with Paul: Personal LinkedIn - https://www.linkedin.com/in/paul-schwartz-97630512/

    49분
  6. Episode 55 - Michael Mathews - Connecting Food, Business, and Leadership

    4월 15일

    Episode 55 - Michael Mathews - Connecting Food, Business, and Leadership

    Meet Mike! Discover insights from Mike Mathews on the importance of clear communication, fostering meaningful relationships, and leveraging values-driven businesses in this engaging conversation. Learn from his diverse career journey through industry, consulting, and leadership in the wine and oyster sectors, as well as practical advice on balancing work and self-care. Main topics covered: - The role of experiential learning and passion in business environments - The impact of understanding human behavior and psychology in effective communication - Strategies for professional growth, business development, and relationship building - The significance of sustainable, value-driven business practices - Practical tips on time management, networking, and self-care for young professionals Timestamps: (00:00) - Welcome and introduction with Mike Mathews (02:27) - The importance of team longevity and experiential culture at Hog Island (03:07) - Mike’s journey into accounting and the influence of psychology (04:39) - Addressing communication gaps in professional settings (07:03) - The role of education and baseline understanding in cross-functional teams (09:39) - Communicating effectively with business owners and understanding their pressures (11:56) - Mike’s early career at Campbell Soup and lessons from industry rotations (14:53) - Insights from Diageo’s product success and failures (17:46) - Long-term thinking in product development and market risks (21:26) - Transition from industry to consulting during COVID (23:32) - The dynamics of a consulting career: challenges and rewards (27:00) - The power of scheduling and planning to build relationships and routines (29:30) - The significance of nurturing professional relationships and networking (30:55) - Reflection on the fleeting nature of childhood and work-life balance (35:30) - Working at value-driven businesses and sustainability practices (37:55) - The importance of community and local engagement in food and beverage (38:45) - Key lessons from consulting: self-care, building your future, and relationship management (49:55) - The impact of small operational improvements on cash flow (52:49) - Advice for young accountants: planning, relationships, and self-awareness (56:14) - The importance of building relationships before they are needed (58:15) - Closing thoughts and gratitude This episode emphasizes the foundational skills of communication, relationship-building, and value-driven business practices, all underscored with practical examples and heartfelt stories. Whether you're early in your career or an experienced professional, the insights shared can help you build a more sustainable, impactful practice. Connect with Mike: Personal LinkedIn - https://www.linkedin.com/in/michael-mathews-34275a5/

    1시간 1분
  7. Episode 54 - Nancy McClelland - Celebrating Authenticity and Building Community in Accounting

    4월 1일

    Episode 54 - Nancy McClelland - Celebrating Authenticity and Building Community in Accounting

    Meet Nancy! In this episode, Nancy McClelland, also known as the Dancing Accountant, shares her inspiring journey from music education to becoming a passionate advocate for community, authenticity, and collaboration in the accounting world. Nancy discusses how embracing her unique personality has attracted her ideal clients and fostered a vibrant company culture. We explore her insights on building trust, leveraging personal strengths, and creating environments where professionals thrive both personally and professionally. Main Topics: - Nancy’s unconventional path from music education to accounting, and how mentorship shaped her career - The importance of authenticity and embracing quirks to attract the right clients - How to build a strong, human-centered company culture in remote and hybrid teams - The significance of asking for what you want and building your opportunities proactively - The impact of community involvement and personal branding in business growth Timestamps: 00:00 - Introduction to Nancy McClelland and her unique background 00:45 - Nancy’s move from music education to accounting and mentorship 01:38 - How Nancy's environment in Mexico supports her health and work-life balance 03:07 - Navigating remote work and the pandemic’s impact on her business 04:19 - Building company culture and maintaining team connection remotely 12:14 - Nancy’s journey to becoming an accountant and her early influences 13:02 - The role of mentorship in Nancy’s career path 16:19 - How Nancy’s community efforts support bookkeepers and CPAs 17:04 - The challenges and joys of starting her own firm 20:36 - Balancing work, life, and health through intentional choices 22:09 - Building a business that aligns with personal passions and strengths 27:12 - The importance of community support and local engagement 32:16 - The value of hiring strategically and focusing on your strengths 37:42 - How personal passions can foster better client relationships 41:11 - The importance of collaboration between bookkeepers and tax professionals 44:01 - Nancy’s "She Counts" podcast: creating a safe space for women in accounting 49:14 - Advice for new entrants: be true to yourself and take proactive steps Connect with Nancy: Personal LinkedIn - https://www.linkedin.com/in/nancy-mcclelland-cpa/ She Counts Podcast - https://shecounts.show/ Ask an Accountant - https://www.thedancingaccountant.com/ask-a-cpa-landing/

    55분
  8. Episode 53 - Katie Thomas - From Accounting to Marketing: How Katie Took the Leap and Found Success

    3월 18일

    Episode 53 - Katie Thomas - From Accounting to Marketing: How Katie Took the Leap and Found Success

    Meet Katie! In the latest episode of Protea Conversations, Zane welcomes Katie Thomas, a dynamic professional who made a remarkable transition from accounting to marketing. We delve into Katie's journey, her motivations, and the lessons learned along the way, providing valuable insights for anyone considering a similar leap. Katie's story is one of courage and determination. Transitioning from a secure career in accounting to the unpredictable world of marketing is no small feat. The Journey from Accounting to Marketing Katie’s path to marketing was not as straightforward as one might think. Initially, she built websites and dabbled in marketing during her teenage years, growing up in a family business environment. This early exposure ignited her passion for marketing, which she pursued alongside her education in accounting. Katie's journey from accounting to a successful marketing career serves as an inspiring narrative for anyone contemplating a leap into the unknown. Her story reveals that embracing change, overcoming doubts, and building a strong network are crucial elements of success. Key takeaways: - Embrace your passions and be willing to take risks. - Build relationships and network actively. - Accept rejection as part of the process and learn from it. Connect with Katie: Personal LinkedIn - https://www.linkedin.com/in/katiethomascpa/ Leaders Online - https://leaders-online.com/

    48분
모두 보기(63개)

소개

Protea Conversations is the podcast for accountants and service-firm leaders. Each episode is a real, unscripted conversation with someone in or around the accounting profession about the careers, decisions, and hard-won lessons behind their success. These aren't polished panel talks. Our guests share what actually shaped them. The pivotal moments, the mistakes, the advice they'd give their younger selves — so you walk away with practical insight you can use in your own career or firm. Whether you're early in your career or running your own practice, you'll find honest stories and useful takeaways in every episode. New conversations regularly.

정보

  • 제작진
    Zane Stevens
  • 방송 연도
    2025년 - 2026년
  • 에피소드
    63
  • 등급
    전체 연령 사용가
  • 웹사이트 보기
    Protea Conversations