The Upstream Leader Podcast

Discover the power of consistency in leadership and client relationships as a key to sustainable success. Explore how evolving team assumptions and fostering a culture of accountability can elevate performance. Learn about the significance of mentorship in empowering future leaders and supporting early career professionals. Gain insights on creating a feedback-friendly environment for continuous growth and improvement. This discussion is packed with actionable reflections to help your organization thrive.

In this conversation, Steve Shein, co-founder of Franklin Alliance, shares his insights into alternative ownership models for boutique accounting firms. He highlights the alliance model as a way for smaller firms to thrive without losing their independence. The discussion touches on the unique challenges these firms face amid private equity influences and the importance of patient capital and reinvestment for long-term growth. Steve also shares success stories of multi-generational firms maintaining their identity while evolving through tailored support and technology-driven solutions.

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

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

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

Dan Hood, Editor-in-Chief at Accounting Today, shares his extensive insights on the rapidly evolving accounting landscape. He emphasizes the crucial role of technological advancements and the pressures of private equity investments. The conversation highlights the urgent need for continuous learning and innovative recruitment strategies to attract young talent. Dan also discusses the importance of strategic planning for firms facing the challenges of change and competition, underscoring that adaptation is essential for survival in this dynamic industry.

The hosts delve into the evolving landscape of the accounting profession, highlighting a shift towards intentional business development. They explore the importance of targeting healthier revenue streams and emphasize intrinsic motivation in employee retention over mere financial incentives. Mentorship is emphasized as crucial for nurturing future leaders, alongside the need for accountability. As they look to 2025, the concept of intentionality and strategic quitting is discussed, encouraging a more purposeful approach to personal and professional growth.

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

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

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