Back

Explore every episode of the podcast The Upstream Leader Podcast

Dive into the complete episode list for The Upstream Leader Podcast. Each episode is cataloged with detailed descriptions, making it easy to find and explore specific topics. Keep track of all episodes from your favorite podcast and never miss a moment of insightful content.

Rows per page:

1–50 of 120

TitlePub. DateDuration
Calming the Noise: Focus on What's Important16 Sep 202400:44:03

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 True Meaning of Meaningful Connection02 Sep 202400:49:05

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

Pricing for Profit, Not Time29 Apr 202400:46:14

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

Next to Come: Accounting's Future15 Apr 202400:41:53

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

Conflict Management's Interplay with Leadership and Mentorship01 Apr 202400:41:13

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

Mental Fitness and Performance18 Mar 202400:41:35

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

Creating the Firm of Tomorrow – Unity, Culture, and Engagement04 Mar 202400:44:12

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

Changing the Industry While Maintaining Sanity19 Feb 202400:40:07

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

What's Your And? - Life beyond the office06 Feb 202400:34:17

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

Generational Differences in the Workplace22 Jan 202400:38:13

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

 

Data Driven Decisions08 Jan 202400:37:40

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

A Discussion About Mental Health and Leadership - Part 219 Dec 202300:31:12

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

Mid-Year Update: Optimism, Growth, PE and More19 Aug 202400:35:08

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

A Discussion About Mental Health and Leadership - Part 104 Dec 202300:26:04

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 Evolution of Client Accounting and CFO Services27 Nov 202300:39:00

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.

Balancing Life & Work Requires More than Productivity Hacks01 Nov 202300:47:03

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

From Networking Zero to Hero17 Oct 202300:40:51

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 Power of Positivity02 Oct 202300:42:54

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

From Adversity to Opportunity15 Sep 202300:43:31

The Upstream Leader's Jeremy Clopton talks with Justin Grant, Founder of Professional Productions, about turning adversity into opportunity. In a conversation that covers so many life experiences, Jeremy and Justin tackle topics including mental health challenges, support, and what leaders can do to overcome challenges and create opportunities for themselves.

 

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

Leading from the Middle: A Manager's Perspective15 Aug 202300:43:04

The Upstream Leader's Heath Alloway talks with Alyssa Taylor, a manager at Windes, and Eric Tuffnail, a manager at RLB, to gain valuable insight into their leadership journey. They share personal experiences and advice about the importance of the manager role, lessons learned, and how partners can prepare the next generation of leaders. 

 

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

HeadWaters Conference: Key Takeaways and Recap01 Aug 202300:40:57

The Upstream Leader Podcast's Jeremy Clopton and Heath Alloway have a conversation about the recent HeadWaters conference hosted by Upstream Academy. They cover their key takeaways, reactions, and reflection they've done since the conference.

 

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

Taking an Idea from Dream to Goal to Reality24 Jul 202300:44:27

The Upstream Leader's Jeremy Clopton talks with Kyle Turriff of RLB Digital about how he turned his dream into reality. The conversation winds through Kyle's journey from aspiring golf pro to ultimately leading the digital practice in one of Canada's top firms. They discuss goals, side hustles, persistence, and strategies for creating something new in an accounting firm.

 

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

Disconnect to Connect: A Conversation with Amy Vetter05 Jul 202300:42:57

The Upstream Leader's Jeremy Clopton chats with Amy Vetter about her new book, Disconnect to Connect. The conversation covers various topics based on the idea that disconnecting from our backstories can help us create more successful futures. Amy shares stories from her career and other leaders she has worked with on how they have and are currently working to apply these principles. 

 

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

 

Additional resources based on this episode:

 

 

Leadership Lessons: Competing Every Day05 Aug 202400:32:50

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

Choose Your Adventure15 Jun 202300:33:06

The Upstream Leader's Heath Alloway takes a deeper dive into a unique approach to the Kaiser Consulting business model with Lori Kaiser. She shares insight into her journey and how it influenced flexible schedules, client projects, and honoring work preferences. She openly shares we believe in our business model, but it may not be for everybody. 

 

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

Leadership Through Loss31 May 202300:45:45

The Upstream Leader's Heath Alloway has a heartfelt conversation with Karen Scott and Gen Nelson from the Lost & Found Grief Center to gain insight into the language of grief. They share invaluable insight into those that experience loss, what to expect, and approaches to being there for those going through one of the most challenging times in their life.

 

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

The Post Peak-Season Recharge15 May 202300:47:04

The Upstream Leader Podcast's Jeremy Clopton and Heath Alloway continue to hear challenges around capacity, burnout, and stress, so they decided to have a conversation to share personal struggles, victories, and strategies to recharge and rejuvenate when the tank is running on empty. 

 

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

Finding Fulfillment in Work and Life06 Mar 202300:40:00

The Upstream Leader Podcast's Jeremy Clopton talks with Jonathan Clark, partner at RKL, about managing stress and keeping our joy daily. Given the prevalence of burnout, overwhelm, and stress in the profession, this topic is focused on how we can make improvements at an individual level. The conversation ranges from stories from Jonathan's career to actionable steps individuals at all levels can take to manage stress, improve mindset, and find the joy in work and outside of work as well.

 

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

Recruiting the Next Generation in Your Firm21 Feb 202300:35:46

The Upstream Leader Podcast's Jeremy Clopton talks with Parker Pell, co-founder at Abode, about recruiting the next generation of talent. The conversation explores the challenge that firms face in recruiting and retention, which is more foundational than many believe. The discussion also includes what Gen Z is looking for in an employer, how to connect with prospective employees before they sign on, and the importance of communication throughout the recruiting process.

 

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

Giving Your Staff a Voice and Path06 Feb 202300:41:54

The Upstream Leader's Heath Alloway connects with Marty Brown, President and CEO of PYA, to learn more about their intentional investment and development of young professionals. Although Marty shares a glimpse into challenges in our profession, he has a contagiously positive outlook on why public accounting is a promising career. He shares ideas to build staff engagement and mentoring opportunities to develop future leaders.

 

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

Quiet Quitting: Should we be concerned?23 Jan 202300:50:47

The Upstream Leader Podcast's Heath Alloway and Jeremy Clopton talk about the concept of quiet quitting and what it means for the profession. The conversation starts with a definition of the phrase and includes the importance of how we communicate our expectations, redefine success in terms of true productivity, and re-engage our workforce.

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

The Thought of Leaving a Profession09 Jan 202300:34:59

The Upstream Leader's Heath Alloway catches up with Bert Purdy, a Financial Services Partner at FORVIS, to talk about the time he almost left public accounting. He shares experiences about what he was going through, why he stayed, and ideas to help others with similar thoughts.

 

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

Creating Community to Improve Retention05 Dec 202200:43:21

The Upstream Leader Podcast's Jeremy Clopton talks with Rebecca Sanborn about the role community plays in recruiting and retention. Perhaps more importantly, they discuss what community is, how diversity plays a role, and how belonging factors in the conversation. A strong sense of community is one element that improves retention, and this episode focuses on helping you understand how to build community within your firm.

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

Leading with Significance: How to Create a Magnetic, People First Culture21 Nov 202200:53:39

The Upstream Leader's Heath Alloway has a meaningful dialogue with Joey Havens, Managing Partner of Strategic growth at HORNE, about the difference between a "good" culture and developing a compelling people-first culture. The conversation hits some of the most pressing topics impacting the profession around people, flexibility, diversity, the fear of change, and much more.

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

Strong Leadership Through Mergers & Acquisitions22 Jul 202400:34:46

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

Meaningful Change within a Career and Firm07 Nov 202200:36:32

The Upstream Leader's Heath Alloway catches up with Josh Tyree, Partner and CEO at Harris CPAs, to learn more about his transition to firm CEO and approach to driving meaningful change. Once you acknowledge we live in constant flux, change becomes a proactive responsibility for continuous improvement.

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

A Discussion about Mental Health26 Sep 202200:41:49

The Upstream Leader Podcast's Jeremy Clopton talks with Randy Crabtree about his experience with mental health challenges while leading a firm in the accounting profession. The discussion includes how Randy overcame mental health challenges, his thoughts on how organizations can support employees, and steps individuals can take to improve their mental health.

**Disclaimer: this is not a discussion with mental health professionals. Nothing should be viewed as or taken as mental health advice. For that, you should consult a professional.

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

Path to Partner: Unraveling the Mystery12 Sep 202200:36:53

The Upstream Leader's Heath Alloway has a conversation with Melissa Biron, Principal at Nathan Wechsler and Company, and Ryan Hurst, Partner at RKL, to share their unique experiences and lessons learned on their path to partner. Both guests shared the importance of soliciting input and providing transparency to those that may have similar questions as they did earlier in their careers.

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

Breaking Down Barriers and Creating a Path for Others30 Aug 202200:34:06

The Upstream Leader Podcast's Jeremy Clopton talks with Jonyce Bullock about her journey to becoming a managing partner. Along the way, they discuss how she broke down barriers, created a path for others, and strives to leave the profession better each day.

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

Purpose Driven Leadership08 Aug 202200:35:59

The Upstream Leader Podcast's Heath Alloway talks with Jeremy Johnson, the lead pastor at North Point Church, on defining and finding purpose-driven leadership. It is easy to get confused on the quest for significance if you focus on your own agenda. Jeremy shares how he found purpose in refocusing everything from the inside to help someone in need.

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

The Topic of Time: Focus on progress, not perfection25 Jul 202200:36:29

The Upstream Leader Podcast's Heath Alloway and Jeremy Clopton talk about the concept of time and the importance of creating space to work on the business and ourselves. Investing the time can be a challenge when "busy" is viewed as a status. When you get out of "busy" you have an opportunity to create a firm, career, and life you desire.

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

Compete Every Day without Burning Out11 Jul 202200:38:43

In this episode of The Upstream Leader, Jeremy talks with Jake Thompson from Compete Every Day. The discussion focuses on how leaders can compete every day without getting burned out. Other topics include the importance of clear communications and learning how to do hard things.

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

Human Resources: More than a place for problems20 Jun 202200:36:04

The Upstream Leader Podcast's Heath Alloway talks with Sara Choate, the managing director of KPM's Human Capital Solutions practice. Sara shares her story and a splash of humor to debunk frequent HR misconceptions, how HR can play a strategic role within a firm, and how those exact solutions can benefit firm clients.

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

Coaching that Lasts a Lifetime06 Jun 202200:37:55

In this episode, Heath Alloway talks with Bryan McKenzie, the Fellowship of Christian Athletes Director of Football for the Midwest Region. Bryan shares his leadership journey, which includes making it to the NFL, a career-ending injury, and how he worked through adversity to find his love for coaching. Bryan shares impactful insights on how to be a coach that is remembered for a lifetime.

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

Addressing the Capacity Challenge23 May 202200:19:34

In this episode of The Upstream Leader, Jeremy tackles the capacity challenge that firms face. He starts with a discussion of the actual issues and how capacity is simply a symptom. He then discusses solutions at the individual and firm level that can collectively help address this challenge. Solutions include everything from managing energy and focus to improving scheduling and accountability and a little bit of everything in between.

Unlocking Authentic Leadership08 Jul 202400:32:19

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

Cultivating a Love of Mondays09 May 202200:32:45

To kick off Season 2 of The Upstream Leader, Jeremy Clopton hosts Sam Allred, Director at Upstream Academy, a firm dedicated to guiding accounting firms to high performance. Sam loves Mondays, which is the focus of the conversation. Jeremy and Sam discuss cultivating a love for Mondays. They talk about what to do if you're struggling to find enjoyment in your work and how Sam is preparing to enjoy Mondays after his career concludes.

Embracing Change & Failure as a Leader04 Apr 202200:33:30

Jeremy Clopton and Heath Alloway team up for The Upstream Leader's final quarterly recap of season 1. They discuss both the difficulties and opportunities inherent in adapting to change and embracing failure. Sharing personal anecdotes from their own professional journeys, they make an unassailable case for the importance of change and failure in your own personal and professional development.

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

The Power of Perspective for Career Success21 Mar 202200:30:32

On Episode 23 of The Upstream Leader, Jeremy Clopton speaks with Randy Crabtree, co-founder and partner of Tri-Merit Speciality Tax Professionals. Randy discusses the life-changing experience that led him to shift the course of his career to align with his passions. He highlights the importance of leading with open-mindedness and enabling employees to shape work around their own passions.

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

Leveraging Client Needs to Become a Recognized Expert07 Mar 202200:27:35

On Episode 22 of The Upstream Leader, Jeremy Clopton hosts Pete Miller, Shareholder at Clark Nuber, an accounting firm in Bellevue, Washington. Pete is what Jeremy calls "an expert at becoming an expert," having established three different practices within the firm. Pete reveals that it was his passion and courage that were vital in helping him establish these initiatives within the firm and mold his career.

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

© My Podcast Data