The Upstream Leader Podcast

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

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

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’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’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

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

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’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’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’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