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/

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/

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/