In this conversation, Zane Stevens interviews John Fenton, a seasoned leader in the accounting and coaching sectors. John shares his journey from a 30-year career in accounting to becoming a leadership coach, emphasizing the importance of vision, resilience, and relationship-building in both sports and business.

He reflects on his experiences in Division 1 football, the lessons learned about teamwork and leadership, and how these principles apply to navigating change in the corporate world. John also discusses the significance of staying true to one's values and the necessity of developing resilience in the face of challenges.

In this conversation, Zane Stevens and John Fenton explore the importance of identifying core values, the transition from a CPA firm partner to a coaching role, and the necessity of coaching in the accounting industry. They discuss coaching philosophies, the significance of gratitude in leadership, and provide advice for new leaders. John shares personal reflections on his purpose and the impact of vulnerability in leadership.

Takeaways

- John Fenton emphasizes the importance of having a clear vision in leadership.

- Building relationships is crucial in the accounting profession.

- Resilience and flexibility are essential skills in navigating change.

- Lessons from sports can be applied to business leadership.

- Sticking to one's values is key in decision-making.

- Teamwork and trust are foundational to success in any field.

- The path to leadership requires dedication and hard work.

- Understanding the dynamics of emotions can impact performance.

- It's important to focus on the next best action in challenging situations.

- The grass is not always greener; sometimes perseverance pays off. Many people lack clarity on their core values.

- Reflection is key to identifying personal values.

- Aligning values with work leads to greater happiness.

- Coaching is essential for growth in the accounting industry.

- Building relationships is crucial for effective leadership.

- Gratitude can significantly improve team dynamics.

- New leaders should focus on listening and understanding their team.

- Vulnerability in leadership fosters connection and growth.

- Goal setting should be focused and intentional.

- Continuous self-improvement is a hallmark of effective leadership.

Sound Bites

"You have to rely on other people."

"Vision is very clear."

"Focus on the next best action."

"Peopling is hard."

"Think differently, achieve more."

"What is my purpose?"

Chapters

00:00 Introduction to John Fenton and His Journey

01:40 Early Career in Accounting and Transition to Leadership

05:13 Lessons from Division One Football

11:03 The Importance of Leadership and Vision

15:21 Navigating Change and Resiliency in Business

24:26 Developing Resiliency and Staying True to Values

27:52 Identifying Core Values 34:06 Transitioning to Coaching

39:45 The Need for Coaching in Accounting

43:15 Coaching Philosophy and Style

51:36 Advice for New Leaders

54:04 Personal Reflections and Purpose

Connect with John:

LinkedIn personal - https://www.linkedin.com/in/johnjfentonceocoach/

Get the book, 5 Minute Mastery - https://www.amazon.com/stores/John-J.-Fenton/author/B07JF9LCS3?ref=ap_rdr&isDramIntegrated=true&shoppingPortalEnabled=true

Meet Rory!

Zane speaks with Rory Henry, a certified financial planner and behavioral financial advisor, about the integration of behavioral finance and holistic wealth management. Rory discusses his journey from tax professional to wealth management, emphasizing the importance of a holistic approach that considers all aspects of a client's financial life. The conversation delves into the evolution of financial advisory, the significance of understanding clients' emotional relationships with money, and the necessity of having difficult conversations to guide clients toward their ideal futures.

Rory also explores the concept of money scripts and how they influence financial decisions, advocating for a values-based planning approach to create meaningful financial strategies. In this conversation they discuss the intricate relationship individuals have with money, the importance of self-assessment in financial planning, and the need for holistic approaches in wealth management. Rory shares insights from his new book aimed at accounting professionals, emphasizing the integration of behavioral finance and the necessity of engaging non-financial spouses in financial discussions. He also highlights his mission to reduce financial stress and expand financial literacy through media.

Takeaways

- Holistic financial planning encompasses all aspects of a client's financial life.

- Behavioral finance plays a crucial role in understanding client decisions.

- Asking the right questions can lead to deeper client insights.

- The emotional side of finance is often overlooked but essential for effective advisory.

- Engaging in future self-exercises can provide clarity on financial goals.

- The accounting profession is evolving into a more holistic advisory role.

- Improv can enhance personal development and public speaking skills.

- Asking for help is essential for growth and learning.

- The future of accounting is bright with many opportunities.

Sound Bites

"Return on relationship is key."

"We need to ask the right questions."

"We're advising clients from womb to tomb."

"Don't be afraid to ask for help."

Chapters

00:00 Introduction to Holistic Wealth Management

05:14 The Evolution of Financial Advisory

10:00 Understanding Holistic Financial Planning

15:10 The Role of Behavioral Finance

19:51 Navigating Difficult Conversations in Advisory

24:58 Exploring Money Scripts and Their Impact

30:01 The Future of Financial Advisory

30:01 The Importance of Self-Assessment in Financial Planning

31:00 Introducing the Book: A Guide for Accounting Professionals

34:18 The Value of Holistic Financial Planning

36:57 Engaging Non-Financial Spouses in Financial Conversations

38:49 Rory's Mission to Reduce Financial Stress

39:45 Future Goals: Expanding Financial Literacy through Media

41:18 The Role of Improv in Personal Development

46:58 Advice for New Accountants and the Future of the Profession

Connect with Rory:

LinkedIn personal - https://www.linkedin.com/in/roryshenry/

Get the book - https://advisror.com/

Meet Vipul!

Zane Stevens speaks with Vipul Seth, Managing Director of AdvancedTrack Outsourcing. They explore Vipul's journey from a family business background to becoming a transformative leader in the accounting industry.

Vipul shares insights on the evolving role of accountants, the importance of technology in enhancing client relationships, and the vision behind his successful outsourcing firm. The conversation emphasizes the need for accountants to be proactive advisors and professional friends to their clients, ultimately aiming to change lives through their work. In this conversation, Vipul Sheth discusses the importance of building a culture of excellence in accounting, embracing technology for future growth, and the significance of collaboration and mentorship in the industry. He shares valuable lessons from his early career, emphasizes the need for patience in business, and highlights the role of sports in developing teamwork skills. Vipul also reflects on his leadership values, advocating for authenticity and open communication within teams.

Takeaways

- Accountants can change lives, but not by producing a set of accounts.

- The journey into accounting often starts with unexpected influences.

- Building relationships is key to successful accounting practices.

- Technology allows accountants to be more proactive in their advisory roles.

- Creating a business that operates independently is a crucial goal.

- Mistakes in business are valuable learning experiences. - Accountants should strive to be professional friends to their clients.

- Challenging oneself leads to continuous improvement in business.

- Outsourcing can free up time for more client-facing activities.

- The success of a business is tied to the success of its clients. Building a culture of excellence is essential for success.

- Embracing technology is crucial for staying relevant.

- Continuous learning and collaboration with peers are key.

- Patience is vital for long-term business growth.

- Authenticity in leadership fosters trust and openness.

- Team sports can enhance teamwork and communication skills.

- Testing new technologies with clients can lead to innovation.

- A no-blame culture encourages honesty and accountability.

- Mentorship plays a significant role in professional development.

- Adaptability is necessary in a rapidly changing business environment.

Sound Bites

"Accountants make a difference. We absolutely do."

"I wanted a business that could operate without me."

"Building a culture of excellence is key."

"Keep reading, talk to your peers."

"Authenticity is key in leadership."

"Collaboration leads to better results."

"Patience is essential in business."

"Be ready for a rough ride in business."

"Honesty is the number one quality in a friend."

Chapters

00:00 Introduction to ProteaConversations

01:42 Meet Vipul Seth: A Transformative Leader

04:32 The Journey into Accounting

10:01 The Role of Accountants in Changing Lives

16:28 Transitioning from Audit to Business Ownership

21:11 Starting AdvancedTrack: The Vision Behind the Business

25:43 The Unique Approach of AdvancedTrack

31:03 Creating Value Through Technology and Outsourcing

32:38 Building a Culture of Excellence

35:30 Embracing Technology for Future Growth

38:44 Staying Ahead in Technology

45:09 Lessons from Early Career Experiences

48:04 Leadership Values and Authenticity

53:59 Advice for New Business Owners

54:55 Personal Insights and the Role of Sports