Exploring Alternative Ownership: The Alliance Model

The Upstream Leader Podcast

#Careers #Business #Heath Alloway #The Upstream Academy #Jeremy Clopton

13:44

Legendary actor and mental health advocate Glenn Close is on a quest to change how we think about mental health, starting with her decision to speak out about her own family's struggles — a brave choice considering the stigma that pervades the topic. This week, we're revisiting this sweeping conversation with TEDWomen curator Pat Mitchell, where Close shares the inspiration behind the advocacy group she founded to combat the crisis, underscoring the transformative power of community and the critical need for comprehensive mental health care systems. Want to help shape TED’s shows going forward? Fill out our survey ! Become a TED Member today at https://ted.com/join Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.…

about a year ago 27:17

MP3•Episode home

Jeremy Clopton delves into a hot topic—alternative ownership models in the accounting profession—with Steve Shein, co-founder of Franklin Alliance, on Episode 87 of The Upstream Leader. They explore the alliance model, an alternative to the more traditional PE and M&A routes. Steve’s company specifically supports boutique accounting firms under $10 million in revenue by providing resources and strategic support without being prescriptive, with the goal of enabling these firms to draw on resources that typically only larger firms have enjoyed, with an emphasis on patient capital and reinvestment for long-term growth. There are challenges and opportunities for boutique firms in any scenario, especially those seeking to maintain independence while successfully navigating industry headwinds.

Get the full show notes and more resources at TheUpstreamLeader.com

95 episodes

Exploring Alternative Ownership: The Alliance Model

The Upstream Leader Podcast

published about a year ago

MP3•Episode home

Get the full show notes and more resources at TheUpstreamLeader.com

95 episodes

#Careers #Business #Heath Alloway #The Upstream Academy #Jeremy Clopton

All episodes

The Upstream Leader Podcast

1
Is AI Killing the Need for Technical Experts? 37:58

6 days ago37:58

37:58

The Upstream Leader goes a different direction on Episode 94, with host Jeremy Clopton inviting producer Justin Grant of Professional Productions to the “other side of the booth” to discuss the evolving role of technology in accounting. Keeping in mind AI’s obvious impact, they talk about the way technology has changed and should continue to change the role of the technical expert and the way firms develop their people. Competitive advantages can be cultivated through transformed onboarding processes, valuing critical thinking and soft skills, and breaking with the old, traditional ways of “grunt work” as the way to train new hires. Understanding that balanced investment in both technology and people is necessary to drive future success, Jeremy and Justin share deep insights that firm leaders don’t want to miss. Get the full show notes and more resources at TheUpstreamLeader.com…

The Upstream Leader Podcast

1
Leadership Evolution: Fractional Executives in Accounting 35:01

20 days ago35:01

35:01

Jen Hamilton, founder of Hamilton COOs and the Fractional COO Collective, joins Jeremy on Episode 93 of The Upstream Leader to discuss the increasing trend of fractional executives within accounting firms and why they’ve proven to be so effective. Jen shares her journey from a CPA at PricewaterhouseCoopers to becoming a thought leader in fractional executive roles, highlighting the development of her emotional intelligence (EQ) and leadership skills in progressing her career. Jen addresses common misconceptions about fractional executives and offers advice for firms considering this model to enhance their strategic decision-making and operational efficiency. Fractional executives can shift the accounting paradigm by elevating a firm’s performance through their strategic leadership, freeing up partners to continue to excel in their technical roles. Get the full show notes and more resources at TheUpstreamLeader.com…

The Upstream Leader Podcast

1
Self-Reflection’s Deep Role in Productivity 44:04

5 weeks ago44:04

44:04

On Episode 92 of The Upstream Leader , Jeremy Clopton interviews Blake Stratton, the founder of True Productive. They discuss the importance of mindset reflection for improving productivity, going further than traditional time management tactics to really take stock of what’s going on with you mentally and psychologically in order to re-write the “software” that can unknowingly hold you back and lead to blocks in your emotional state and even your level of success. Blake explains these concepts through his personal journey of high stress and chronic productivity challenges, emphasizing the need to not just reframe negative beliefs, but to cast the causes of them as entirely neutral, proceeding accordingly. One’s emotional state clearly affects productivity and in this episode, through techniques of systematic reflection and digging below the surface, you will start to get a handle on how. Get the full show notes and more resources at TheUpstreamLeader.com…

The Upstream Leader Podcast

1
Building the Best Team Ever 34:12

7 weeks ago34:12

34:12

On Episode 91 of The Upstream Leader , Jeremy Clopton is joined by Dr. David Burkus, author of Best Team Ever and several other books on business success, to discuss building high-functioning teams in the accounting industry. Noting that it’s important to move beyond technical proficiency to focus on team dynamics, David and Jeremy go into detail on three core factors: common understanding, psychological safety, and pro-social purpose. David stresses the significance of making each team member feel valued, highlighting the need for leaders to actively foster an environment where team members feel safe to express ideas and take risks, and he offers practical activities and insights to help leaders connect their teams to a meaningful purpose and improve their performance. Underscoring the conversation is the idea that it is vital for leaders to demonstrate that they care about their employees as human beings and not just numbers. Get the full show notes and more resources at TheUpstreamLeader.com…

The Upstream Leader Podcast

1
Creating a Culture of Learning and Action 38:09

9 weeks ago38:09

38:09

Jeremy Clopton visits with Monika Turek, Learning & Development Manager at HoganTaylor, on Episode 90 of The Upstream Leader . Centering their discussion on maximizing your and colleagues’ potential by fostering a culture of learning and moving beyond the traditional CPE mindset, Monika tells Jeremy about her personal journey to leadership, her willingness to go first, and what she learned from various structured development programs. Highlighting personal accountability, setting incremental goals, and making professional development paths meaningful for individual growth, they also tackle the challenges of balancing compliance with genuine learning, and how organizations can create motivating environments that align professional development with company core values.…

The Upstream Leader Podcast

1
Bringing Hospitality to Accounting 39:54

11 weeks ago39:54

39:54

Jeremy is joined by Jana Cinnamon, COO and partner at Abdo Solutions, to discuss the intersection of hospitality and accounting on Episode 89 of The Upstream Leader. They explore how infusing hospitality into client interactions can transform the profession and improve both client and employee experiences. Jana shares insights about their firm’s initiatives inspired by the book Unreasonable Hospitality, emphasizing the importance of infusing a hospitality mindset into every level of an organization. The conversation highlights that fostering a culture where employees feel empowered to provide exceptional service not only improves client satisfaction but also attracts and retains top talent—and that insights into how to do this don’t just have to come from the accounting profession—inspiration is everywhere. Get the full show notes and more resources at TheUpstreamLeader.com…

The Upstream Leader Podcast

1
Consistency Over Intensity: Keys to Sustainable Leadership 31:21

13 weeks ago31:21

31:21

On this solo Episode 88 of The Upstream Leader Podcast, host Jeremy Clopton shares insights from recent meetings with managing partners of accounting firms across the U.S. and Canada. Jeremy focuses on three major themes: the importance of consistency over intensity in both client and employee experiences, the need to change assumptions about people's capabilities and responsibilities, and the crucial role of accountability and clear expectations among partners. Aimed at improving firm culture, client service, and leadership, Jeremy provides actionable reflections to help elevate your and your firm’s performance consistently throughout the year. Get the full show notes and more resources at TheUpstreamLeader.com…

The Upstream Leader Podcast

1
Exploring Alternative Ownership: The Alliance Model 27:17

15 weeks ago27:17

27:17

Jeremy Clopton delves into a hot topic—alternative ownership models in the accounting profession—with Steve Shein, co-founder of Franklin Alliance, on Episode 87 of The Upstream Leader . They explore the alliance model, an alternative to the more traditional PE and M&A routes. Steve’s company specifically supports boutique accounting firms under $10 million in revenue by providing resources and strategic support without being prescriptive, with the goal of enabling these firms to draw on resources that typically only larger firms have enjoyed, with an emphasis on patient capital and reinvestment for long-term growth. There are challenges and opportunities for boutique firms in any scenario, especially those seeking to maintain independence while successfully navigating industry headwinds. Get the full show notes and more resources at TheUpstreamLeader.com…

The Upstream Leader Podcast

1
Mastering Emotional Intelligence and Energy Levels 35:45

17 weeks ago35:45

35:45

Jeremy Clopton returns for Episode 86 of The Upstream Leader , engaging in a thought-provoking conversation with professional coach, speaker and educator, Andrew Donofrio. They discuss the importance of emotional intelligence in leadership, focusing on managing emotions and energy levels, especially during demanding periods like tax season. Andrew draws upon his diverse career in law enforcement, technology, and executive coaching to emphasize the significance of understanding and accepting different perspectives while still setting standards for performance and improvement from your charges. In addition to exploring practical strategies for improving emotional intelligence and maintaining high energy amid busy schedules, Andrew emphasizes the importance of deliberate self-care, particularly during peak times. Get the full show notes and more resources at TheUpstreamLeader.com…

The Upstream Leader Podcast

1
More than Words: Effective Communication 42:00

19 weeks ago42:00

42:00

Host Heath Alloway talks effective communication with Ben Decker on Episode 85 of The Upstream Leader. The Chairman and Co-CEO of Decker Communications, Ben focuses on the pivotal role communication plays in leadership. Sharing insights on becoming a better leader through humble confidence, the impact of early communication habits, and the critical importance of non-verbal cues, Ben details his approach to improving how professionals communicate, emphasizing the need for intentionality, curiosity, and the ability to provide and receive constructive feedback. He pillories the “soft skill” label that communication is often saddled with due to its central role in professional and personal success, offering practical advice for introverts and those plagued with self-doubt. Get the full show notes and more resources at TheUpstreamLeader.com…

The Upstream Leader Podcast

1
Life Beyond Labels: Focus on What Matters 36:07

21 weeks ago36:07

36:07

On Episode 84 of The Upstream Leader , Jeremy Clopton sits down with Kelsey O’Connor, a former Division I athlete and graduate of NC State, to discuss her view of “Life Beyond Labels.” Exploring how individuals, particularly high achievers in the accounting profession, can separate their identity from their accomplishments and focus on their qualities, attitude, and the way they treat others, Kelsey shares her personal journey of overcoming a severe concussion that ended her athletic career. Through actively describing others for who they are rather than what they do, embracing servant leadership, and making use of other methods of building confidence and empathy, Kelsey triumphed over her injury and ultimately gave her class’s commencement speech, hitting on these very points. She also provides insights on preparing for significant life transitions, such as retirement, and maintaining a balanced sense of self throughout one’s career. Get the full show notes and more resources at TheUpstreamLeader.com…

The Upstream Leader Podcast

1
Change is the Constant: The Reality Facing Accounting Today 42:07

23 weeks ago42:07

42:07

Dan Hood, Editor-in-Chief at Accounting Today, joins Jeremy Clopton for Episode 83 of The Upstream Leader to kick off 2025 with a slew of predictions. Discussing key themes such as the accelerating pace of change, technological advancements, and the impacts of private equity, Dan shares insights on the importance of technology investments, the evolving landscape of firm sizes, and strategies for adapting to ongoing changes. He also emphasizes the need for continuous learning and strategic planning to stay competitive as the one thread that will continue to run through everything the profession does, is change. Get the full show notes and more resources at TheUpstreamLeader.com…

The Upstream Leader Podcast

1
Looking Back and Forward: 2024 in Review 43:27

25 weeks ago43:27

43:27

It’s time to close out 2024 and look ahead to 2025 on Episode 82 of The Upstream Leader featuring both Jeremy Clopton and Heath Alloway. Reflecting on key trends, they emphasize some major positives in the profession, including firms’ increased focus on intentionality and being proactive with their business development plans. Comprised primarily of creating a sustainable growth strategy, and shifting towards running firms more like businesses, there are barriers, especially with regards to firm governance and the need for partners to hold themselves as much to account as they do the employees of the firm. They look forward to 2025, with insights on coaching and the impact of private equity, among others, but underscoring the discussion are the themes of purposeful growth and the benefits of fostering a culture of development and engagement. Get the full show notes and more resources at TheUpstreamLeader.com…

The Upstream Leader Podcast

1
Navigating Loss: Grief and Bereavement in the Workplace 40:34

27 weeks ago40:34

40:34

On Episode 81 of The Upstream Leader, host Heath Alloway welcomes return guest Karen Scott, co-founder of Lost & Found Grief Center. Karen is joined by Melanie Blair, Assistant Executive Director, and the discussion centers around supporting grieving employees. Exploring the impact of grief on productivity, the importance of flexible workplace policies, and the need for genuine acts of kindness from employers, Karen and Melanie emphasize the importance of community, personalized support, and proactive planning in helping employees navigate their grief journeys. Get the full show notes and more resources at TheUpstreamLeader.com…

The Upstream Leader Podcast

1
Building a Powerful Network and a Collaborative Future 47:17

29 weeks ago47:17

47:17

Heath Alloway hosts an insightful Episode 80 of The Upstream Leader featuring Caitlin Gibbs, Matt Skinner, and Trevor Brown. This landmark episode, the first ever with three guests, is an exploration of the evolving landscape of the accounting profession, with the panel touching on leadership development and networking, mentoring, challenges within the profession, and the importance of collaboration among firms. Highlighting the impact of technology and strategies for business development and talent retention, the panelists offer valuable perspectives on sustaining growth, enhancing work-life balance, and enticing the next generation of accountants to join what they consider a profession that is full of potential. Get the full show notes and more resources at TheUpstreamLeader.com…

The Upstream Leader Podcast

1
Stop Complaining and Start Teaching: Cultivate Professionalism 39:55

31 weeks ago39:55

39:55

Jeremy Clopton engages in a thought-provoking discussion with Sarah Krom, Managing Partner at SKC & Co., on Episode 79 of The Upstream Leader . They discuss the challenges the profession seems to be encountering in needing to teach skills around professionalism, with Sarah sharing her firm’s solution: to formally teach “behavioral competencies” alongside the technical skills virtually all firms promote. Touching on developing a framework for professionalism, the importance of behavioral competencies, and strategies for effective mentorship and coaching, Sarah offers practical advice for both leaders and early career professionals. This approach has paid off for Sarah in a massive way, as she has been named one of America’s Top 200 CPAs by Forbes . Get the full show notes and more resources at TheUpstreamLeader.com…

The Upstream Leader Podcast

1
Navigate Change and Spur Growth: The Path Forward 41:25

33 weeks ago41:25

41:25

Allan Koltin joins Jeremy Clopton on Episode 78 of The Upstream Leader to discuss the evolving landscape of the accounting profession. Allan’s expertise is wide-reaching, built over more than 40 years within accounting as a practitioner, consultant, and thought leader. Covering M&A, private equity, ESOPs and more, Allan underscores recent industry growth, the importance of transformation, and strategic adaptations that firms must embrace to remain competitive, stressing that PE is not the only answer. Talent management, effective advancement, and cost reductions are all pieces of the puzzle, and Allan goes so far as to emphasize the challenges of PE integrations—the necessity for standardized processes, culture shock, changes in valuations, partnership agreements, and so on. There are few more knowledgeable voices in modern accounting than Allan Koltin and this episode is one you don’t want to miss. Get the full show notes and more resources at TheUpstreamLeader.com…

The Upstream Leader Podcast

1
There’s No Time for “Maybe” 32:30

35 weeks ago32:30

32:30

“Maybe” takes a back seat and stays where it belongs, as Jeremy Clopton hosts Kathy Klang, leader of the Success Management Division at Cummings Keegan on Episode 77 of The Upstream Leader. Kathy emphasizes the importance of empowering individuals to become decisive leaders without overanalyzing, advocating for a shift from committee-based management to individual decision-making. Cultivating leadership is a process that involves multiple steps, including training, setting parameters, and encouraging a culture of open communication. Kathy explains that mistakes are inevitable in such a setup and identifies how to handle fixes, but above all it remains a collaborative process so that it doesn’t feel punitive for the person in question. A master class on leadership brought to you by a former managing partner with over 40 years’ experience in the profession—you don’t want to miss this episode! Get the full show notes and more resources at TheUpstreamLeader.com…

The Upstream Leader Podcast

1
Connection and Investment: Building Effective Leadership 43:03

37 weeks ago43:03

43:03

Erin Raukar joins Heath Alloway on Episode 76 of The Upstream Leader to discuss her experiences throughout her career leading up to her current position as Director of Human Resources and Administration at Cummings Keegan. HR plays a strategic role in any accounting firm, and Erin has vast knowledge of HR’s inner workings, which she’s gained from roles at Target Headquarters, educational institutions, and in the public accounting space. Focusing especially on the importance of feedback, onboarding, and relationship-building, Erin touches on the significance of early relationship investment and effective time management to ensure firms run at their peak. Erin also shares her insights on creating a positive onboarding experience and the value of peer networks, offering practical advice for firm leaders aiming to enhance their operational and HR strategies. Get the full show notes and more resources at TheUpstreamLeader.com…

The Upstream Leader Podcast

1
Calming the Noise: Focus on What's Important 44:03

39 weeks ago44:03

44:03

Heath Alloway returns to hosting duties as he talks with Peter Ostopko, founder and publisher of the Kinsman Journal, on Episode 75 of The Upstream Leader . With a backdrop of “Calming the Noise,” or in other words, filtering out what is and is not necessary to focus on in your daily life, they explore Peter's leadership journey, career transitions, and strategies for finding purpose and balance. Peter emphasizes the importance of understanding emotions, fostering genuine connections, and creating a people-centric work culture. The pair also highlight the significance of empathy, intentional communication, and community-building, both professionally and personally. Get the full show notes and more resources at TheUpstreamLeader.com…

The Upstream Leader Podcast

1
The True Meaning of Meaningful Connection 49:05

41 weeks ago49:05

49:05

Jeremy Clopton returns to host Episode 74 of The Upstream Leader , where he welcomes Rob Brown to delve into the theme of connection within the accounting profession. Rob, the founder of the Accounting Influencers Roundtable, is a reputation and career development expert as well as the host of the Accounting Influencers podcasts. Covering topics such as leveraging technology for genuine connections, enhancing firm culture in both remote and in-person environments, and the importance of intentionality in leadership, Rob delves deep into the expertise he has gained from decades of consulting with professionals, as he and Jeremy go into great detail about innovative firm practices such as asynchronous video introductions and speed networking events, to name but two. Rob’s depth of experience really shines through as he emphasizes the value of empathy and understanding in building effective relationships. Get the full show notes and more resources at TheUpstreamLeader.com…

The Upstream Leader Podcast

1
Mid-Year Update: Optimism, Growth, PE and More 35:08

43 weeks ago35:08

35:08

Jeremy Clopton and Heath Alloway get together to discuss their recent experiences and insights from various conferences, workshops, and personal time on this special recap Episode 73 of The Upstream Leader . They explore the importance of reconnecting with nature and practicing gratitude, both in personal life, and in the workplace, and how empowering that can be in driving personal creativity and vision. They look at current trends in accounting: building a culture of optimism, the impact of private equity, and the vital need for any firm to have an intentional growth strategy. They emphasize that effective leadership leads to teaching and mentorship, which ensure the future success of accounting firms, and they discuss this from a position of experience and expertise as Upstream Academy continues to support the development of high-performing leaders in the profession. Get the full show notes and more resources at TheUpstreamLeader.com…

The Upstream Leader Podcast

1
Leadership Lessons: Competing Every Day 32:50

45 weeks ago32:50

32:50

On Episode 72 of The Upstream Leader , host Jeremy Clopton welcomes back Jake Thompson, Chief Encouragement Officer at Compete Every Day. They discuss Jake's new book, Lead Better Now , which focuses on practical strategies for self-leadership and team development, and offers actionable insights for both new and seasoned leaders. Jake stresses the importance of feedback, balancing relationship dynamics, and cultivating an environment of continuous improvement. Emphasizing the value of vulnerability, Jake ties that principle to the need for courage in leadership, as well as aligning oneself with high achievers to foster personal and professional growth. Get the full show notes and more resources at TheUpstreamLeader.com…

The Upstream Leader Podcast

1
Strong Leadership Through Mergers & Acquisitions 34:46

47 weeks ago34:46

34:46

Join The Upstream Leader Podcast as host Heath Alloway discusses mergers and acquisitions with Bruce Zicari, managing partner and CEO of The Bonadio Group, on Episode 71. Bruce shares valuable lessons on leading successful mergers, fostering integration, and building trust within teams. Bruce's firm has successfully navigated 22 mergers, many with him at the helm at CEO, and his practical insights on achieving synergistic growth and handling the transition process are know-how that you don't want to miss. Get the full show notes and more resources at TheUpstreamLeader.com…

The Upstream Leader Podcast

1
Unlocking Authentic Leadership 32:19

49 weeks ago32:19

32:19

Jeremy Clopton rejoins us for Episode 70 of The Upstream Leader as he engages in an insightful conversation with Carla McCall, managing partner at AAFCPAs and now Chair of the AICPA. Exploring her journey of authentic leadership, the importance of candor and self-reflection, and how creating a culture where team members can bring their whole selves to work can drive success, Carla shares her personal experiences and practical strategies for fostering a human-centric workplace culture that enhances productivity and employee satisfaction. Don't miss out on key book recommendations and actionable advice to elevate your leadership game! Get the full show notes and more resources at TheUpstreamLeader.com…

The Upstream Leader Podcast

1
AI, Tech, and Leadership: Navigating the Minefield 38:14

51 weeks ago38:14

38:14

Jeremy Clopton returns to host Episode 69 of The Upstream Leader featuring Danielle Supkis Cheek, Vice President, Head of Analytics and AI at Caseware. They discuss the transformative role of technology in accounting, how AI and analytics are reshaping the profession and what it means for modern leadership. Danielle shares practical strategies for adopting new technologies, managing risks, and staying competitive, highlighting the impact of AI on efficiency, the future of standards, and emerging trends like chain-of-thought reasoning and small language models. Danielle’s insights are pivotal for professionals who want to come to grips with the fast pace of change in both their leadership and firm development roles. Get the full show notes and more resources at TheUpstreamLeader.com…

The Upstream Leader Podcast

1
Overcoming Adversity with Integrity 36:51

1 year ago36:51

36:51

Tune in for key leadership insights on navigating adversity, on Episode 68 of The Upstream Leader . Anthony Sanfilippo, co-founder of Sorelle Capital, joins Heath Alloway to discuss his successes and tribulations in the hospitality industry. Full of stories from a 40+ year career, Anthony speaks on the importance of integrity, how to implement ideals around it within a company culture, and how to handle unexpected challenges. He highlights the role of grit and determination in achieving career growth, asserting that it’s always possible to carve out a place where you’ll be singled out for your unique contributions. Get the full show notes and more resources at TheUpstreamLeader.com…

The Upstream Leader Podcast

1
From Idea to Impact: Navigating a Startup 36:18

1 year ago36:18

36:18

Heath Alloway returns to host Episode 67 of The Upstream Leader , and he talks to James Stapleton, co-founder of Codefi, about his insights on tech entrepreneurs and startups, the challenges they deal with, and how accounting firms can look to aid this specialized group of clients. Through Codefi, James seeks to streamline financial operations and readjust traditional accounting practices through a mutual use of technology between client and firm, allowing for a relationship with room to grow on both sides. Get the full show notes and more resources at TheUpstreamLeader.com…

The Upstream Leader Podcast

1
Transforming Communication: Strategic Storytelling 38:38

1 year ago38:38

38:38

Join Jeremy Clopton on Episode 66 of The Upstream Leader as he talks to Jeff Bartsch, founder of Story Greenlight. They explore the power of storytelling in transforming communication strategies for accounting professionals, a skill Jeff refined first with over 20 years of experience writing stories in Hollywood, and then subsequently, coaching professionals on how best to communicate theirs. Discover how leveraging communication frameworks can lead to meaningful connections, advisory roles, and transformative outcomes in accounting firms. Jeff provides insights and practical tools to enhance your leadership and client relationships. Get the full show notes and more resources at TheUpstreamLeader.com…

The Upstream Leader Podcast

1
Pricing for Profit, Not Time 46:14

1 year ago46:14

46:14

The general accounting business model has remained more or less unchanged for decades, and on Episode 65 of The Upstream Leader, Michelle Golden joins Jeremy Clopton to discuss what needs to happen to capture the increases in efficiency that have exploded in the profession since the end of the 20th century. Michelle, the CEO of Fore LLC, drives home the fact that with technological advancement should come more revenue, but because so many accounting firms are still anchored to time-based billing, the paradoxical result is more clients, but equal or even lower revenue. Michelle and Jeremy discuss solutions to solving this paradox, starting with what she calls “worth-based pricing.” Get the full show notes and more resources at TheUpstreamLeader.com…

The Upstream Leader Podcast

1
Next to Come: Accounting's Future 41:53

1 year ago41:53

41:53

Jeremy Clopton welcomes David Hartley to The Upstream Leader for Episode 64, and their conversation focuses around the challenges of leading accounting firms into the future. The impact of hybrid work environments, the role of technology, and the shift to advisory services will all play a large role in shaping the direction the profession takes in the coming years, and David stresses that just carrying on as things currently stand is not likely to bear much fruit. He breaks down the power of young professionals who are up to date with modern tools, the efficiency gains this signifies in real terms, and the need for leaders to be willing to take a chance on implementing strategies that utilize both. Get the full show notes and more resources at TheUpstreamLeader.com…

The Upstream Leader Podcast

1
Conflict Management’s Interplay with Leadership and Mentorship 41:13

1 year ago41:13

41:13

On Episode 63 of The Upstream Leader, Heath Alloway welcomes Philip Palaveev, CEO of The Ensemble Practice, for a discussion on leadership, mentorship, and conflict management. Feedback and trust play a vital role in making emotional discussions productive, and Philip covers helpful information on nonverbal communication, active listening, and the concept of relationship deposits and withdrawals and how to manage them. Get the full show notes and more resources at TheUpstreamLeader.com…

The Upstream Leader Podcast

1
Mental Fitness and Performance 41:35

1 year ago41:35

41:35

The Upstream Leader's Heath Alloway and Chance Potts, Founder of Employee Benefit Design, roll up their sleeves to tackle how mental fitness can help us function at our best level, no matter the circumstances. This approach includes recognizing how we naturally approach challenges, discomfort, and negativity and ways to rewire our thought processes to embrace the challenges we face in our lives and careers. Get the full show notes and more resources at TheUpstreamLeader.com…

The Upstream Leader Podcast

1
Creating the Firm of Tomorrow – Unity, Culture, and Engagement 44:12

1 year ago44:12

44:12

In this episode, Jeremy Clopton and Heath Alloway discuss the challenges and strategies for building unity and a team-driven culture in accounting firms. They explore the impact of remote and hybrid work on firm culture and employee engagement. They emphasize the importance of intentional communication and connection in creating a positive work environment. The conversation highlights the role of leaders in fostering a sense of purpose and belonging among team members. They also discuss the mindset and optimism needed to navigate the profession's changing landscape. Get the full show notes and more resources at TheUpstreamLeader.com…

The Upstream Leader Podcast

1
Changing the Industry While Maintaining Sanity 40:07

1 year ago40:07

40:07

In this episode, The Upstream Leader’s Jeremy Clopton interviews Jason Staats, the founder of Realize, a community of accounting firm leaders. They discuss the journey of becoming a leader and the importance of building a community and professional network. They also explore the need for change in the accounting industry and the role of AI and technology in transforming firms. Jason emphasizes the value of time and delegation and the importance of balancing work and life. They conclude by discussing the need for improved processes and systems and the importance of trust and delegation in a firm. Get the full show notes and more resources at TheUpstreamLeader.com…

The Upstream Leader Podcast

1
What’s Your And? - Life beyond the office 34:17

1 year ago34:17

34:17

In this episode, The Upstream Leader’s Jeremy Clopton interviews John Garrett about the importance of connecting with others outside of the professional space. John shares his unique journey from being a CPA to becoming a comedian and author. They discuss the significance of embracing one's 'and'—the personal interests and passions that go beyond the job title. John emphasizes the need for individuals and organizations to create a culture that values and nurtures the whole person. He suggests that leaders should take the time to get to know their team members on a deeper level and encourage them to share their passions. John also provides advice for students and new professionals entering the accounting profession. Get the full show notes and more resources at TheUpstreamLeader.com…

The Upstream Leader Podcast

1
Generational Differences in the Workplace 38:13

1 year ago38:13

38:13

The Upstream Leader’s Heath Alloway and Bec Godsey, Full Sail University, reconnect to discuss generational differences in the workplace. They explore common generational perceptions and highlight how effective communication and transparency can build connections across multiple generations. Get the full show notes and more resources at TheUpstreamLeader.com…

The Upstream Leader Podcast

1
Data Driven Decisions 37:40

1 year ago37:40

37:40

The Upstream Leader’s Heath Alloway catches up with Tim Moy from MBE CPAs and Dirk Shimpach from goVirtualOffice to discuss the relationship between an ERP system and firm data to guide critical decisions and results, resource planning, and helping team members become better professionals. Get the full show notes and more resources at TheUpstreamLeader.com…

The Upstream Leader Podcast

1
A Discussion About Mental Health and Leadership - Part 2 31:12

1 year ago31:12

31:12

In part 2 of this conversation, The Upstream Leader’s Jeremy Clopton and Ifen Donovan, a licensed counselor at Peace of Mind Counseling Services, discuss the relationship between leadership and mental health. They delve deeper into the five A's—awareness, acceptance, allow yourself to seek help, attend to your feelings, and act—as a practical framework for leaders. Donovan emphasizes the impact of past trauma on personal growth, advocating for self-awareness and healing. The conversation stresses the importance of recognizing emotional triggers, engaging in deep breathing exercises, and balancing work with rest and play. The episode aims to promote emotionally intelligent leadership and destigmatize seeking professional help for mental well-being. Get the full show notes and more resources at TheUpstreamLeader.com…

The Upstream Leader Podcast

1
A Discussion About Mental Health and Leadership - Part 1 26:04

2 years ago26:04

26:04

In part 1 of this conversation, The Upstream Leader’s Jeremy Clopton and Ifen Donovan, a licensed counselor at Peace of Mind Counseling Services, delve into the crucial intersection of leadership and mental health. The discussion emphasizes the impact of fear of failure, unresolved familial issues, and the "only I can do it" mentality on leaders' emotional bank accounts. Ifen introduces the concept of the five A's—be aware, accept, allow, attend to feelings, and act—as a framework for maintaining emotional well-being. The conversation underscores the significance of leaders recognizing personal boundaries, understanding coping mechanisms, and fostering a workplace where individuals feel seen, heard, and valued for optimal mental health and productivity. Get the full show notes and more resources at TheUpstreamLeader.com…

The Upstream Leader Podcast

1
The Evolution of Client Accounting and CFO Services 39:00

2 years ago39:00

39:00

The Upstream Leader’s Heath Alloway makes a new connection with Ed Warren from Sage Intacct to discuss the evolution of client accounting and CFO services that are resulting in rewarding personal and firm growth opportunities, all while making a significant impact on clients. Get the full show notes and more resources at TheUpstreamLeader.com .…

The Upstream Leader Podcast

1
Balancing Life & Work Requires More than Productivity Hacks 47:03

2 years ago47:03

47:03

The Upstream Leader Podcast’s Jeremy Clopton opens up with Heath Alloway to share how past life events influenced his workaholic tendencies. Too often, the individuals struggling with balance are those who meet the characteristics of a great team member, and that is hard to change. He shares his personal story that goes much deeper than productivity hacks to find a balance between the desire to achieve, the fear of failure, and the associated costs. Get the full show notes and more resources at TheUpstreamLeader.com…

The Upstream Leader Podcast

1
From Networking Zero to Hero 40:51

2 years ago40:51

40:51

The Upstream Leader’s Jeremy Clopton and Keith Dolabson, Gursey | Schneider LLP, explore effective networking in the digital age. Keith advocates for genuine connections and dispels the notion of needing to be the most interesting person in the room. The discussion covers virtual networking challenges and emphasizes the importance of regular, continuous engagement. Keith provides tools for tracking connections and shares success stories, illustrating the transformative impact of networking. Get the full show notes and more resources at TheUpstreamLeader.com…

The Upstream Leader Podcast

1
The Power of Positivity 42:54

2 years ago42:54

42:54

The Upstream Leader’s Heath Alloway has a crucial conversation with Amy Kelly and Julie Nee from The Jon Gordon Companies about the profound impact of positivity in our professional and personal lives. In a world surrounded by negativity, this episode will help you grow the skill of positivity to make a difference in your own lives, careers, and everyone else around you. Get the full show notes and more resources at TheUpstreamLeader.com…

The Upstream Leader Podcast

1
From Adversity to Opportunity 43:31

2 years ago43:31