Brought to you by ImpactEleven, hear from the world’s top thought leaders and experts, sharing tipping point moments, strategies, and approaches that led to their speaking career success. Throughout each episode, host Josh Linkner, #1 Innovation keynote speaker in the world, deconstructs guests’ Mic Drop moments and provides tactical tools and takeaways that can be applied to any speaking business, no matter its starting point. You'll enjoy hearing from some of the top keynote speakers in th ...
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The hot-topic podcast where firms, thought leaders, influencers, and research nerds converge, collaborate, speak out and dig into common challenges impacting accounting firms. We ask the critical questions on topics that matter—from the pipeline shortage and security threats to the “how–the–hell–can–anyone–keep–up” pace of technology change—and then work to amplify actionable guidance and takeaways for firms. Join Darren Root, Dr. Kristy Short, John Mitchell and other dedicated industry cham ...
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Chris Schembra is a dinner host, question asker, and facilitator. He's a columnist at Rolling Stone magazine, USA Today calls him their "Gratitude Guru" and he's spent the last nine years traveling around the world helping people connect in meaningful ways. As the offshoot of his #1 Wall Street Journal Bestselling book, Gratitude Through Hard Times, he uses this podcast to blend ancient stoic philosophy and modern day science to teach how the principles of gratitude can be used to help peopl ...
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Backstage with Josh Linkner: A conversation on everyday innovation, AI, and unlocking creative potential
29:21
29:21
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29:21In this episode recorded live at the RightNOW Conference in Nashville, innovation expert and bestselling author Josh Linkner joins us to talk about what it really means to innovate in the modern accounting firm. Josh shares how everyday creativity—not billion-dollar breakthroughs—is the key to progress, how to cultivate a culture of innovation by r…
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Backstage with Gary Vee: A conversation on Marketing, AI, and the Future of Accounting
37:19
37:19
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37:19In this special on-site episode from the RightNOW 2025 conference in Nashville, Gary Vaynerchuk joins us for a candid, fast-paced conversation right after his keynote. We cover everything from creating effective content with minimal effort, to why firms are struggling to hire, to the real implications of AI. Gary shares the personal story behind hi…
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Escaping Hustle Culture: $10K Hours, 4-Week Vacations & the 25-Hour Workweek
42:57
42:57
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42:57What if you could swap $10 tasks for $10k impact? Host TJ Lewis talks with Dr. Sabrina Starling—“The Business Psychologist,” bestselling author of How to Hire the Best and The 4 Week Vacation®—about escaping hustle culture in modern accounting firms. Citing research on 700+ entrepreneurs, Dr. Sabrina reveals that 90% are burning out and explains ho…
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Episode Summary In this riveting and deeply personal conversation, Chris Schembra sits down with Grace Smith — one of the world’s most respected hypnotherapists and the founder of the #1 hypnotherapy brand in the world — to explore how hypnosis can unlock peak performance, emotional clarity, and authentic leadership in the modern workplace. Chris o…
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In this deeply moving and insight-rich episode of Gratitude Through Hard Times, host Chris Schembra welcomes Sara Hardwick, the Community Relationship Strategist at the Gift•ology Group and steward of the late John Ruhlin’s enduring legacy. What begins as a conversation about gifting quickly unfolds into a masterclass in human connection, spiritual…
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What if your inner critic isn’t the enemy—but a misdirected inner coach waiting for the right conversation? On today’s soul-shifting episode, Chris Schembra sits down with licensed clinician and Wall Street Journal bestselling author Britt Frank to explore the untapped potential of your internal world. Britt’s new book, Align Your Mind, blends Inte…
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Redefining the modern accountant: Leading with empathy and innovation in the age of AI
1:02:25
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1:02:25What if the future of accounting isn't about being faster or smarter—but more human? In this episode of The Modern Firm Podcast, host TJ Lewis sits down with Hector Garcia, CPA, YouTuber, and AI thought leader, to explore what it means to be an AI-enhanced accountant. They unpack the shift from traditional number crunching to a more human-centered,…
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From burnout to breakthrough: The power of the pause in building resilient firms
38:20
38:20
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38:20In this episode of The Modern Firm Podcast, host TJ Lewis welcomes back Amy Vetter—CPA, yogi, keynote speaker, and CEO of the B3 Method Institute—for a powerful conversation about one of the most underrated tools in a leader’s toolkit: the pause. As firms navigate the intensity of busy season and beyond, Amy challenges the grind mindset and makes t…
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Engaging the talent on your team to drive innovation in your firm
54:44
54:44
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54:44Could engaging your team differently unlock the innovation and change your firm needs to thrive? In this episode of The Modern Firm Podcast, TJ Lewis and Jen Wilson, partner and co-founder of ConvergenceCoaching, LLC, discuss strategies for engaging talent, fostering innovation, and driving meaningful change in accounting firms. They explore how fi…
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Leading change: Key insights and practical strategies with Will Hill
48:21
48:21
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48:21Is your firm equipped to lead purposeful change and foster innovation in today’s fast-moving world? In this episode of the Modern Firm Podcast, we dive into the critical elements of leading purposeful change and fostering an innovative mindset within accounting firms. Our guest, Will Hill, shares over 20 years of expertise in helping firms adapt an…
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A new season, a new vision: Re-establishing what it means to be a Modern Firm (Episode 31)
19:09
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19:09What does it really mean to be a modern firm in today’s constantly evolving landscape? In this episode of The Modern Firm® podcast, host TJ Lewis sets the stage for the new season. With a focus on innovation and evolution, TJ redefines what it means to be a modern accounting firm—not as a fixed destination, but as an ongoing journey rooted in a gro…
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Dr. Steve Elias: The Power of a Shoulder Tap
58:49
58:49
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58:49Welcome back to another episode of Gratitude Through Hard Times! Today, your host Chris Schembra is joined by the insightful and inspiring Dr. Steve Elias, Dean of the Katz School of Business at Fort Lewis College in Durango, Colorado. Amidst the polar vortex sweeping through New York City, we dive into a heartwarming discussion about mentorship, l…
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When knowledge walks out the door: AI is the solution (Ep. 30)
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31:39Is your firm prepared to retain critical knowledge when long-term employees leave? Welcome to The Modern Firm® podcast, moderated by John Mitchell, who is joined by Ted McRae, Director of Demand at Makers Hub and a 30-year veteran of the accounting technology industry. In this episode, John and Ted tackle the pressing issue of knowledge retention i…
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11 Impactful Insights in 11 Minutes (ft. The ImpactEleven Community)
16:45
16:45
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16:45Core Topics: Barb Betts: Build authentic relationships rooted in empathy and trust to drive meaningful connections and long-term success. Dan Chuparkoff: Use AI tools like ChatGPT to customize speeches for specific audience needs, ensuring relevance and resonance. Lisa Even: Integrate purposeful humor to make keynotes more engaging, memorable, and …
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New Year predictions: Get ready for 2025 (Ep. 29)
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28:32What will transform the accounting profession in 2025? Join John Mitchell and Darren Root as they share their bold predictions and insights for the coming year. From Apple’s AI integration to quantum computing breakthroughs, discover how emerging technologies will reshape client service and workplace dynamics. Learn why strategic technology adoptio…
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Felipe Gomez: The Beauty of Listening
1:05:27
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1:05:27Welcome to a soul-stirring episode of Gratitude Through Hard Times with your host, Chris Schembra. Set against the festive backdrop of New York City during the holiday season, this conversation is an inspiring reminder of the power of gratitude, connection, and intentional living. Joining Chris is Felipe Gómez, a world-renowned thought leader, virt…
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Transforming Workplaces Through Radical Kindness (ft. Shola Richards)
38:51
38:51
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38:51Guest Bio: Shola Richards is a celebrated speaker, author, and workplace civility expert known for his advocacy in building more inclusive, respectful, and human-centered workplaces. After overcoming severe personal challenges in a toxic work environment, Shola dedicated his career to helping others navigate and transform organizational cultures th…
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AI gadgets and goodies for the holidays: Darren and John top picks (Ep. 28)
25:12
25:12
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25:12How will AI transform your everyday experiences? Join John Mitchell and Darren Root as they explore the latest tech innovations and discuss how AI is becoming more personal than ever. From Apple’s newest AI features to essential work-from-home gadgets, discover how these tools are reshaping our daily routines. Learn practical tips for leveraging te…
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In this captivating episode of Gratitude Through Hard Times, host Chris Schembra welcomes innovation expert, entrepreneur, and jazz musician Josh Linkner to explore the profound connection between creativity, gratitude, and success. Josh, a New York Times bestselling author and founder of five tech companies, shares how his diverse experiences—from…
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The Path to Mastery (ft. Patrick McAndrew)
34:27
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34:27Guest Bio: Patrick McAndrew is the founder of Hara, a high-impact community focused on self-mastery for the self-made. He began his career as a speed-reading instructor and has since become a leading voice in attention and mental performance. Patrick’s work centers on helping leaders go beyond linear learning to develop practices that strengthen fo…
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In this inspiring episode of Gratitude Through Hard Times, host Chris Schembra sits down with David Landman, a former senior HR executive at Goldman Sachs, to explore his transformative journey from corporate success to living a life centered on joy, gratitude, and purpose. David, who is passionate about making work more sustainable, fulfilling, an…
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Securing all entrances: Cybersecurity layers for your firm (Ep. 27)
30:02
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30:02Does your firm have a false sense of security? Did you know that 94% of small businesses have experienced a cybersecurity event? In this episode of The Modern Firm podcast, Mike Ellerhorst, CEO of NTM Advisory, explains why accounting firms are prime targets and shares practical strategies for protecting your business. You’ll learn about the three …
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Guest Bio: Gaby Natale is a media entrepreneur, author, and the first Latina to be published by HarperCollins Leadership. She is the host and co-founder of SuperLatina, a nationally syndicated television show, and has won three Daytime Emmy Awards for her work. Known for her advocacy and pioneering spirit, Gaby uses her platform to empower others t…
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Succession planning: Important aspects of a successful accounting practice sale (Ep.26)
31:02
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31:02Are you leaving money on the table when it comes to your firm’s value? This episode serves up a fresh take on succession planning with industry leaders Todd Steinberg and Chris Tabb. These experts shed light on why most accounting firms are caught off guard when planning for the future. They share insider knowledge on everything from location to cl…
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Pasta Sauce & Daring Dreams (ft. Shelley Paxton & Chris Schembra)
41:37
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41:37Guest Bios: Shelley Paxton: Former CMO of Harley-Davidson, Shelley left her high-powered corporate career to pursue a more meaningful path, coining the term Soulbbatical. As an author, keynote speaker, and guide, Shelley helps others redefine success on their own terms, inspiring leaders to build bold, brave, and authentic lives. Shelley’s signatur…
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Mitch Warner: The Power of Self-Awareness
54:46
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54:46In this insightful episode of Gratitude Through Hard Times, host Chris Schembra welcomes Mitch Warner, Managing Partner at The Arbinger Institute and co-author of Leadership and Self-Deception. Mitch guides us through the core principles of Arbinger’s groundbreaking work, exploring the central idea of self-deception—a psychological barrier that pre…
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The psychology of tech purchases: Revealing common barriers and how to move forward, faster (Ep. 25)
38:00
38:00
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38:00Welcome to The Modern Firm® podcast, with guest moderator Dr. Kristy Short, Senior Director of Content Strategy for Rightworks, who is joined by Roman Kepczyk, Director of Firm Technology Strategy for Rightworks. In this episode, Kristy and Roman navigate the psychology behind technology purchasing decisions in accounting firms and the common barri…
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Breaking the Three-Story Limit (ft. Carla Johnson)
39:18
39:18
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39:18Guest Bio: Carla Johnson is a world-renowned keynote speaker, author of ten books, and a master of connecting the dots between creative problem-solving, strategy, and customer experience. She is best known for helping leaders and organizations cultivate innovative thinking and apply it to everyday business challenges. Carla’s innovative approach ea…
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In this deeply moving and insightful episode of Gratitude Through Hard Times, host Chris Schembra engages in a heartfelt conversation with Sandeep Angra, Chief Information and Technology Officer (CIO/CTO) of the 40,000 person strong company, Unifi, the largest airport ground-handling company in North America and Europe. With over three decades of I…
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Do you know your firm’s security risk level? (Ep. 24)
28:44
28:44
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28:44Welcome to The Modern Firm® podcast, hosted by guest moderator Dr. Kristy Short, Senior Director of Content Strategy for Rightworks, who is joined by Dr. Molly Boddy, Director of Product Marketing at Rightworks. In this episode, Kristy and Molly tackle the vital topic of security in the accounting profession. Molly, an expert in security and compli…
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Finding the Right Partners (ft. Amy Eddy)
36:54
36:54
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36:54Guest Bio: Amy Eddy is a senior agent at BigSpeak Speakers Bureau, where she helps top keynote speakers connect with businesses and organizations across industries. With a deep understanding of market dynamics and the unique needs of clients, Amy has built a reputation for excellence in the speaking industry. In addition to her work at BigSpeak, Am…
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Connected leadership: How to cultivate a fulfilling work life for staff (Ep. 23)
25:08
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25:08Welcome to The Modern Firm® podcast, hosted by Darren Root, Growth Strategist for Rightworks, founder of Rootworks (now Rightworks Academy) and an accounting firm owner for over 30 years, and John Mitchell, Culture and Workforce Advisor for Rightworks. In this episode, Darren and John host a captivating conversation with Amy Vetter, CPA, CEO of The…
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Unpacking NPAG’s Accounting Talent Strategy Report (Ep. 22)
31:20
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31:20In this episode of The Modern Firm® podcast, join moderator Dr. Kristy Short as she interviews Jennifer Wilson, co-founder and partner of ConvergenceCoaching, to discuss the National Pipeline Advisory Group's groundbreaking efforts in solving the talent pipeline challenges in the accounting profession. They discuss the need to make the academic exp…
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The Power of Human Connection (ft. Smiley Poswolsky)
37:54
37:54
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37:54Guest Bio: Smiley is a highly sought-after speaker and thought leader known for his expertise in belonging and human connection. With a background in understanding workplace dynamics and the effects of loneliness on productivity, Smiley has become a key voice in promoting the value of connection in the corporate world. His work is grounded in solid…
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Michael O'Brien: Igniting the Joy of Work
1:11:59
1:11:59
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1:11:59In this insightful episode of Gratitude Through Hard Times, host Chris Schembra sits down with Michael J. O'Brien, founder of The BluePrint Toolset®, Inc., to explore how leaders can ignite the joy of work and foster positive cultural transformation within organizations. With over 35 years of experience coaching executives and consulting across div…
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Getting radical with Jody Padar on pricing, process and people (Ep. 21)
35:06
35:06
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35:06Welcome to The Modern Firm® podcast, hosted by Darren Root, Chief Strategist for Rightworks, founder of Rootworks (now Rightworks Academy) and an accounting firm owner for over 30 years, and John Mitchell, Culture and Workforce Advisor for Rightworks. In this episode, guest moderator Kristy Short, Senior Director of Content Strategy for Rightworks,…
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From Scrubs to Spotlight (ft. April Hansen)
36:53
36:53
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36:53Guest Bio: April is a dynamic leader known for her expertise in driving hyper-growth within organizations. With a background in healthcare and a track record of leading companies to unprecedented levels of success, April has become a prominent figure in the world of business and professional speaking. Her ability to translate personal and organizat…
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Combating the pipeline shortage with offshore staffing (Ep. 20)
34:05
34:05
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34:05Welcome to The Modern Firm® podcast, hosted by Darren Root, Growth Strategist for Rightworks, founder of Rootworks (now Rightworks Academy) and an accounting firm owner for over 30 years, and John Mitchell, Culture and Workforce Advisor for Rightworks. In this episode, Darren and John are joined by two special guests from GKM, Viji Sudhakar and To…
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Tony Nader: Consciousness Is All There Is
59:03
59:03
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59:03In this powerful episode of Gratitude Through Hard Times, host Chris Schembra engages in a deep and insightful conversation with Dr. Tony Nader, a leading neuroscientist, global head of the Transcendental Meditation (TM) movement, and author of the groundbreaking book Consciousness Is All There Is. Together, they explore the profound impact of unde…
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In this episode of Gratitude Through Hard Times, host Chris Schembra sits down with Ash Shehata, Chief Information Officer of AHMC Healthcare System, to explore the intersection of leadership, adaptability, and human connection. Ash shares the story of a life-changing health crisis that transformed his perspective on healthcare and leadership, lead…
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The Art of Impactful Entertainment (ft. Jeff Civillico)
40:59
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40:59Guest Bio: Jeff Civillico is an award-winning entertainer, speaker, and philanthropist. Known for his high-energy performances, Jeff has headlined in Las Vegas since 2009 and performed over 5,000 shows. He is the founder of the nonprofit organization Win-Win Entertainment, which brings smiles to children, patients, and staff in hospitals nationwide…
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Retention Revolution: Crafting exceptional staff experiences (Ep. 19)
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39:19Welcome to The Modern Firm® podcast. In the latest episode, host John Mitchell, Culture and Workforce Advisor for Rightworks, interviews Tiffany Caponigro, Rightworks Academy coach, about the "retention revolution" and its impact on firm culture and staff retention. Tiffany highlights the significance of moving from a reactive to a proactive approa…
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The Science of Creating Superfans (ft. Brittany Hodak)
40:55
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40:55Guest Bio: Brittany Hodak is an award-winning entrepreneur, speaker, and author known for her expertise in creating unparalleled customer experiences. She has worked with some of the world's biggest brands and artists, including Taylor Swift, Katy Perry, and Walmart. Brittany's book, "Creating Superfans: How to Turn Customers into Lifelong Advocate…
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Remotely great: Building a firm culture to support hybrid work (Ep. 18)
23:02
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23:02Welcome to The Modern Firm® podcast, hosted by Darren Root, Chief Strategist for Rightworks, founder of Rootworks (now Rightworks Academy) and an accounting firm owner for over 30 years, and John Mitchell, Culture and Workforce Advisor for Rightworks. In this episode, John and Darren explore the challenges and strategies for adapting to a post-pand…
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The Undercover Millennial (ft. Clint Pulver)
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39:40Guest Bio: Clint Pulver is a renowned keynote speaker, author, and professional drummer known for his expertise in employee retention and workplace culture. He is the creator of the Undercover Millennial Program, which has garnered insights from over 11,000 employees. Clint's engaging presentations blend his passion for music with powerful messages…
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Target the right clients: Why ICP matters (Ep. 17)
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19:03Welcome to The Modern Firm® podcast, hosted by Darren Root, Chief Strategist for Rightworks, founder of Rootworks (now Rightworks Academy) and an accounting firm owner for over 30 years, and John Mitchell, Culture and Workforce Advisor for Rightworks. In this episode, Darren and John discuss the fact that accounting firm owners say that less than 6…
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Turning Pain into Purpose (Ft. Anne Mahlum)
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40:47
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40:47Guest Bio: Anne Mahlum is a visionary entrepreneur and philanthropist known for her transformative impact in the nonprofit sector and the fitness industry. She is the founder of Back on My Feet, a nonprofit organization that uses running to help homeless individuals gain independence, and Solidcore, a high-intensity fitness boutique. Anne's innovat…
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Francesco Pastore: Failure is Not the Devil
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42:36In this episode of "Gratitude Through Hard Times," host Chris Schembra welcomes Francesco Pastore, the Chief Marketing & Sales Officer and Corporate Communication Director of the global paper leader, Sofidel. Francesco discusses the concept of a "portfolio career," emphasizing the importance of diverse experiences, continuous learning, and adaptabi…
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Welcome to The Modern Firm® podcast, hosted by Darren Root, Chief Strategist for Rightworks, founder of Rootworks (now Rightworks Academy) and an accounting firm owner for over 30 years, and John Mitchell, Culture and Workforce Advisor for Rightworks. In this episode, Darren and John discuss what everyone in the accounting profession has been talk…
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In this episode of "Gratitude Through Hard Times," host Chris Schembra welcomes Steve Tcherchian, Chief Product Officer and Chief Information Security Officer at XY Pro, to discuss the profound impact of gratitude, resilience, and vulnerability in leadership. The conversation begins with Steve’s journey through the competitive cybersecurity industr…
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