We interview CEOs, business leaders, and thought leaders to get their perspectives on strategy, leadership, management, and other trends that can support your career and help you run a ”best-in-class” business or non-profit. Be sure to subscribe and tell us what you’re taking away from each episode. About SME Strategy We facilitate strategic planning offsite meetings and support the accountability of the plans and the leadership teams who lead them. Learn more at: https://www.smestrategy.net ...
…
continue reading
Peter Towers, creator of ESS BIZTOOLS, tools written for accountants so they can quickly and easily offer business advisory services to their SME clients, presents news topics that accountants should be aware of if they work with SME clients.
…
continue reading

1
Talking SME with Ten2Two … eavesdropping on the experts
Ten2Two - Experts in Flexible Recruitment and Consultancy
Ten2Two works with business large and small across all sectors and industries and has fascinating conversations every day about how businesses are adapting and leading in these changing and uncertain times. Our new series, Talking SME, lets you join us for these conversations to get insights, learnings and advice from a broad range of business leaders. Our guests talk about a subject close to their hearts and share their personal insights for your benefit. Give yourself a short break to hear ...
…
continue reading
Game Changers was designed BY government contractors FOR government contractors. The focus of every episode is to give listeners a new tip, trick, or strategy that will help them find and win more contracts. Each episode features Subject Matter Experts (SME), companies that are successfully winning contracts, or nationally recognized professional speakers and authors. The show is hosted by government experts Michael LeJeune from Federal Access and Joshua Frank from RSM Federal. Their award-w ...
…
continue reading
Step into the unfiltered world of business evolution with DoGood Insider, where ambitious founders and CEOs share their raw, unedited stories of transformation from startup visionaries to successful scale-up CEOs. Each episode peels back the polished exterior of entrepreneurship to reveal the real challenges, pivotal decisions, and breakthrough moments that shape a company's growth. Hosted by DoGood Agency, a trusted partner in operations management consulting, employee training and developm ...
…
continue reading
Bringing you the latest news, views and experiences in Technology, Talent and Transformational change hosted by CTO, Author and leading Tech For Good advocate Prof. Sally Eaves @sallyeaves. With weekly episodes and an inspiring diversity of guests from some of the most pioneering organisations, projects and people of our time, this is Your engaging space to learn from C-Suite to Student, CIO to Academic and Enterprise to SME. Our shows focus on the latest innovations in emergent technology i ...
…
continue reading

1
Ep 377: Silent Influencers in Government Contracting - Who Are They and How do You Find Them
16:02
16:02
Play later
Play later
Lists
Like
Liked
16:02In this episode of Game Changers for Government Contractors, host Michael LeJeune exposes one of the most overlooked secrets to success in the federal market... silent influencers. These behind-the-scenes players shape acquisition strategies, steer evaluations, and quietly impact award decisions, often without holding formal authority. Learn how to…
…
continue reading
In this compelling episode, Peter Towers, Managing Director of ESS BIZTOOLS, explores how offering Research & Development (R&D) advisory services can transform your firm into a strategic partner for innovative SMEs. Discover why R&D is not just a tax incentive – it’s a powerful differentiation tool for accountants, bookkeepers, and business advisor…
…
continue reading

1
Ep 376: Building a Dream GovCon Company with Mission-Driven Leadership
43:11
43:11
Play later
Play later
Lists
Like
Liked
43:11In this episode of Game Changers for Government Contractors, host Michael LeJeune interviews Mary Toxey, COO and co-founder of Basis Path. Mary shares her powerful journey from serving as a SIGINT analyst in the Air Force to co-building a women-veteran-owned GovCon firm specializing in modernization and data science. Learn how Basis Path prioritize…
…
continue reading

1
From Military to Tulip Farming: Andrew Miller's Unconventional Journey
19:52
19:52
Play later
Play later
Lists
Like
Liked
19:52Andrew Miller, the president and CEO of United Way of Skagit County and the co-founder and CEO of Tulip Valley Farms. Discover how Andrew transitioned from a career in Air Force intelligence to embracing life as a tulip farmer, bringing fresh perspectives and innovative approaches to both farming and community work. Andrew shares his unique strateg…
…
continue reading

1
Differentiate or Disappear: Why Your Firm Must Stand Out
40:47
40:47
Play later
Play later
Lists
Like
Liked
40:47In this powerful episode Accountants Minute Podcast, Peter Towers, Founder and Managing Director of ESS BIZTOOLS, urges accountants, bookkeepers, and business advisors to reflect on a vital question: Are you really helping your clients grow, or just lodging their tax returns? Peter shares compelling insights from his journey—ranging from CFO of a p…
…
continue reading

1
Ep 375: GovCon Consultants Exposed Hype and Red Flags Versus RESULTS!
13:20
13:20
Play later
Play later
Lists
Like
Liked
13:20In this episode of Game Changers for Government Contractors, host Michael LeJeune tackles a growing frustration in the GovCon space: hiring consultants who don’t deliver results. Drawing from thousands of conversations with contractors, Michael breaks down why many consultants fall short—lacking real GovCon experience, pushing generic B2B tactics, …
…
continue reading

1
Help SMEs Navigate Growth with Business Planning
31:09
31:09
Play later
Play later
Lists
Like
Liked
31:09In this episode, Peter Towers, Managing Director of ESS BIZTOOLS, shares a compelling roadmap for accountants, bookkeepers and business advisors ready to transition from tax-focused work to delivering high-impact advisory services for SME clients. Discover how to implement a structured business planning process, identify key client concerns with th…
…
continue reading

1
Corporate Governance: Guide SMEs with Confidence and Clarity
33:06
33:06
Play later
Play later
Lists
Like
Liked
33:06In this edition of Accountants Minute Podcast, Peter Towers, founder and Managing Director of ESS BIZTOOLS, dives deep into the essential – but often overlooked – topic of corporate governance for SMEs. This episode is a must-listen for accountants, bookkeepers, and business advisors who want to provide stronger leadership and risk management guida…
…
continue reading

1
Navigating Turbulence: The Evolution of Leadership with Blair LaCorte
20:35
20:35
Play later
Play later
Lists
Like
Liked
20:35Anthony Taylor interviews Blair LaCorte, a seasoned CEO with extensive experience in private equity and aviation. They discuss Blair's journey, particularly his time at XOJet, where he transformed a struggling airline into a successful business through innovative strategies and a focus on customer needs. The conversation delves into the importance …
…
continue reading

1
Ep 373: The Boring Stuff That Actually Grows Your GovCon Business
14:01
14:01
Play later
Play later
Lists
Like
Liked
14:01In this episode of Game Changers for Government Contractors, host Michael LeJeune strips away the fluff and focuses on what really moves the needle in GovCon—mastering the fundamentals. From consistent pipeline reviews and smart pre-acquisition prospecting to proposal infrastructure, back-office compliance, and client re-engagement, Michael outline…
…
continue reading
In this episode of Accountants Minute Podcast, Peter Towers challenges accountants, bookkeepers, and business advisors to step into the role of true strategic partners for SMEs. Discover how financial forecasting, real-time reporting, and predictive accounting can transform your client relationships and your practice. From cash flow management to c…
…
continue reading

1
Culture Eats Strategy: Building Tomorrow's SMEs on Today's Values Toward a Human-First Culture
44:59
44:59
Play later
Play later
Lists
Like
Liked
44:59What does it really take to build a thriving company culture? In this insightful episode, Seb Wichmann sits down with Christina Luconi to explore the power of intentional culture-building as a foundation for organizational success. From Christina’s journey at Rapid7 to launching her own consulting venture, the conversation is packed with real-world…
…
continue reading

1
McKinsey Partner Tim Koller on Mastering Business Valuation
25:17
25:17
Play later
Play later
Lists
Like
Liked
25:17Anthony Taylor and Tim Koller discuss the critical aspects of business valuation, emphasizing the importance of balancing revenue growth and profitability. They explore strategic decision-making in large organizations, the role of the CEO in resource allocation, and the necessity of understanding financial drivers to create value. Tim shares insigh…
…
continue reading

1
Ep 372: The 2025 HUBZone Conference: What to Expect and Why You Should Attend
25:48
25:48
Play later
Play later
Lists
Like
Liked
25:48In this episode of Game Changers for Government Contractors, host Michael LeJeune welcomes Kindra Dionne, Chief Program Officer of the HUBZone Contractors National Council, to celebrate 25 years of HUBZone progress and preview what’s ahead. Kindra unveils a bold vision for the program, including a new Affinity Group model, a national outreach strat…
…
continue reading

1
Family Business Advisory: Your Next Growth Opportunity
31:52
31:52
Play later
Play later
Lists
Like
Liked
31:52In this episode of the Accountants Minute Podcast, Peter Towers explores why family businesses are the cornerstone of the Australian SME sector—and what that means for accountants, bookkeepers, and business advisors. With 70% of SMEs being family-run, understanding the unique dynamics, challenges, and opportunities of these businesses is essential.…
…
continue reading

1
Infinite Possibilities: Lessons from Space with Dr. Bernard Harris
17:18
17:18
Play later
Play later
Lists
Like
Liked
17:18Dr. Bernard Harris, the first black astronaut to walk in space, shares his incredible journey from childhood dreams of space exploration to becoming a physician, venture capitalist, and author. He discusses the importance of mentorship, visualization, and embracing infinite possibilities in achieving one's highest potential. Dr. Harris emphasizes t…
…
continue reading

1
Ep 371: DOGE, Disruption, and GovCon Strategy: What You Need to Know
39:45
39:45
Play later
Play later
Lists
Like
Liked
39:45In this episode of Game Changers for Government Contractors, host Michael LeJeune sits down with Neil McDonnell, president of the GovCon Chamber of Commerce CEO of GovCon in a Box, to explore how contractors can navigate a rapidly evolving federal market. From the controversial DOGE initiative to shifting priorities in cybersecurity and AI, Neil sh…
…
continue reading
In this episode of Accountants Minute Podcast, Peter Towers, founder of ESS BIZTOOLS, challenges accountants, bookkeepers, and business advisors to rethink their role with SME clients. It's time to move beyond tax returns and embrace the full potential of business advisory services. Peter explores how tools like the SME Needs Analysis, Business Plu…
…
continue reading

1
Beyond Distance: Transforming Remote Work into Meaningful Connections with Jeanette Winters
34:43
34:43
Play later
Play later
Lists
Like
Liked
34:43In this conversation, Seb Wichmann and Jeanette K Winters discuss the challenges and strategies of maintaining meaningful connections in a remote work environment. Jeanette shares her insights as CHRO of 8x8, where nearly half of the workforce is remote. They explore the importance of authentic connections, cultural sensitivity, and the balance of …
…
continue reading

1
Scaling Up: Why Getting the Foundations Right is Critical
30:04
30:04
Play later
Play later
Lists
Like
Liked
30:04In this episode of the Accountants Minute Podcast, Peter Towers dives into why so many Australian businesses struggle to scale—and how accountants and advisors play a pivotal role in building the right foundations. From strengthening internal systems and cash flow forecasting to debtors management, supplier negotiations, and business planning, Pete…
…
continue reading

1
Bridging The Cultural Divide: Redefining Cross-Continental Growth in Gaming’s Global Workforce with Chris Hewish
39:23
39:23
Play later
Play later
Lists
Like
Liked
39:23In this conversation, Seb Wichmann interviews Chris Hewish, the Chief Strategy Officer and former CEO of Xsolla, discussing the challenges and successes of scaling a global company. They explore the integration of diverse cultures from Eastern Europe, the West, and Asia, and how these differences can be bridged to create a cohesive team. Chris shar…
…
continue reading

1
New to Advisory Services? We've Got You Covered.
35:32
35:32
Play later
Play later
Lists
Like
Liked
35:32In this episode of Accountants Minute Podcast, Peter Towers explores how accountants, bookkeepers, and business advisors can respond to the mounting pressures faced by SME clients—and their own firms. With compliance services rapidly evolving and advisory opportunities expanding, Peter outlines how the ESS BIZTOOLS Starter Package equips you to bec…
…
continue reading

1
Business Advisory Conversations that Drive Impact
17:18
17:18
Play later
Play later
Lists
Like
Liked
17:18In this episode of the Accountants Minute Podcast, Peter Towers, Managing Director of ESS BIZTOOLS, explores how accountants, bookkeepers, and business advisors can create meaningful conversations that go beyond compliance and drive real results for SME clients. Drawing from decades of experience, Peter highlights the importance of proactive client…
…
continue reading

1
The Future Of Work with AI: AI For Business Strategy and Leadership in 2025 with Kevin Surace
21:41
21:41
Play later
Play later
Lists
Like
Liked
21:41This SME Strategy Podcast episode features technology and leadership innovator Kevin Surace, offering expert guidance on leveraging generative AI to enhance content creation and drive strategic growth and strategic planning. Learn how to make better decisions, improve your customer experience, and cultivate a culture of joy in work that supports yo…
…
continue reading

1
Business Plus+ in Action: From Insight to Implementation
25:57
25:57
Play later
Play later
Lists
Like
Liked
25:57In this episode of Accountants Minute Podcast, Peter Towers, Managing Director of ESS BIZTOOLS, explores how accountants, bookkeepers, and business advisors can put Business Plus+ into action to spark meaningful conversations with SME clients. Learn how this monthly communication tool becomes a gateway to advisory services - covering everything fro…
…
continue reading

1
Servant Leadership and Exit Strategies in 2025: Business Strategy with Cameron Bishop
22:52
22:52
Play later
Play later
Lists
Like
Liked
22:52This episode of the SME Strategy & Leadership podcast focusses on navigating hyper-growth, the power of servant leadership, and crucial exit strategies relevant for 2025. Cameron Bishop of Raincatcher shares his extensive experience in leading companies through significant transformations, emphasizing effective communication, employee engagement, a…
…
continue reading

1
Business Plus+: Redefining SME Client Relationships
30:18
30:18
Play later
Play later
Lists
Like
Liked
30:18In this episode of Accountant’s Minute Podcast, Peter Towers unpacks the urgent need for accountants, bookkeepers, and business advisors to pivot as traditional compliance work continues to decline. Drawing on insights from thought leaders like Mark Wickersham and former ATO Commissioner Chris Jordan, Peter explores how firms can future-proof thems…
…
continue reading

1
Strategic Leadership in the Age of AI in 2025 with Faisal Hoque
24:53
24:53
Play later
Play later
Lists
Like
Liked
24:53On this episode of the SME Strategy Podcast, global management thought leader Faisal Hoque serves up essential guidance on the evolving landscape of AI and technology in 2025. He underscores the vital role of purpose-driven leadership in navigating today's market uncertainty. Faisal introduces the CARE framework as a fundamental structure for AI go…
…
continue reading

1
Implementing Advisory Services that Make a Real Difference
26:53
26:53
Play later
Play later
Lists
Like
Liked
26:53In this special podcast episode, based on the 400th edition of Accountants Minute, Peter Towers delivers a powerful wake-up call for the accounting profession. With compliance work on the decline and automation accelerating, the future belongs to those who embrace their role as trusted advisors. Learn how to diversify your services, implement power…
…
continue reading

1
The New Rules of Talent Retention with Global Talent Advisor Steve Cadigan
29:20
29:20
Play later
Play later
Lists
Like
Liked
29:20🚨 Talent retention strategies are failing. Businesses need to fundamentally shift operations to continue to thrive. 🚨 In this powerful episode of the SME Strategy Podcast, we sit down with Steve Cadigan, LinkedIn's first CHRO and a global talent advisor, to uncover the harsh realities of today's talent marketplace and reveal what you need to consid…
…
continue reading

1
Building Tomorrow’s Culture: Daniel Marashlian on Managing SME Culture Amidst Rapid Growth Surge
36:08
36:08
Play later
Play later
Lists
Like
Liked
36:08In this conversation, Seb Wichmann speaks with Daniel Marashlian, co-founder and CTO of Drata, about the challenges and strategies involved in scaling a company from 300 to 600 employees while maintaining a strong workplace culture. Daniel shares insights on the importance of cultural values, the role of trust and time, and the necessity of being c…
…
continue reading

1
Ep 365: How Winners Think: A Mindset Blueprint for GovCon Contractors
11:56
11:56
Play later
Play later
Lists
Like
Liked
11:56In this episode of Game Changers for Government Contractors, host Michael LeJeune shares the critical mindset shifts needed to succeed in government contracting. From filtering out distractions like political noise and LinkedIn negativity to focusing on what you can control—like building relationships, refining your pipeline, and improving your ski…
…
continue reading

1
Ep 369: High-Performer Habits: How to Use Boundaries to Scale Your Business
22:50
22:50
Play later
Play later
Lists
Like
Liked
22:50In this episode of Game Changers for Government Contractors, host Michael LeJeune shares one of the most overlooked growth strategies for business owners: setting boundaries. If your calendar is packed, your focus is scattered, and burnout is looming, this episode is your wake-up call. Michael breaks down how high-performing leaders use boundaries …
…
continue reading

1
Ep 370: Lessons from the Trenches: Surviving and Thriving in GovCon
35:20
35:20
Play later
Play later
Lists
Like
Liked
35:20In this episode of Game Changers for Government Contractors, host Michael LeJeune sits down with Starla Halcomb of Lead Training to share her incredible journey in GovCon. Starla opens up about launching her business with a single contract, losing it all during the pandemic, and learning how to rebuild from scratch. She discusses the mental challen…
…
continue reading

1
Ep 366: Why Agile Proposals Are 30% Faster (and How to Switch from Waterfall)
37:48
37:48
Play later
Play later
Lists
Like
Liked
37:48In this episode of Game Changers for Government Contractors, host Michael LeJeune welcomes Tony Gray to unpack the major differences between traditional waterfall and agile proposal development. Tony shares how agile proposals—led by skilled writers with deep customer and technical insight—deliver faster, more cohesive, and higher-quality responses…
…
continue reading

1
Ep 367: How to Interview a GovCon BD Rep (Without Getting Fooled)
15:06
15:06
Play later
Play later
Lists
Like
Liked
15:06In this episode of Game Changers for Government Contractors, host Michael LeJeune dives into a powerful guide for interviewing business development (BD) reps in the GovCon space. Michael shares how to spot red flags, detect lies, and ask strategic questions that reveal whether a candidate can execute—not just interview well. You'll learn how to tes…
…
continue reading