How could bartending teach you the essentials of sales and connecting with people?

Glenn and Julie sit down with Neil Rogers, owner and VP of Sales and Marketing at Rogers Marketing—a leading promotional marketing firm in New England.

From overcoming self-doubt to thriving as a connector, Neil’s journey is all about embracing process, adapting, and helping others succeed. If you’re ready to grow your business—and yourself—this episode is for you!

Neil is not just a marketing powerhouse; he’s also the bestselling author of “Bar Tips: Everything I Needed to Know in Sales I Learned from Behind the Bar,” and co-founder of Positive Activity, a program dedicated to helping people achieve their goals one step at a time.

In this lively and candid conversation, Neil takes us back to his roots growing up in Melrose, Massachusetts, sharing stories of large family life, early struggles with self-esteem, and how discovering his people skills behind the bar set him on a lifelong journey of sales and entrepreneurship.

Neil opens up about his path to building a business, the importance of positivity and process, why being coachable made all the difference, and how his “make it happen” mindset has led to decades of success—not just in business, but in life.

Here are three key takeaways that resonated with us:

Start Every Day With Positivity: Neil emphasized the importance of beginning each day with a growth mindset. Approaching problems with a solution-oriented, positive attitude leads to more productivity and greater creative thinking.

Be Coachable and Embrace Mentorship: One of Neil’s major turning points was becoming open to feedback and guidance. Being receptive to mentorship allowed him to accelerate both personal and professional growth—an essential mindset shift for any entrepreneur.

Process Drives Progress: Whether behind the bar or running a business, Neil credits consistent processes and paying attention to the little things as the foundation for his long-term success. Show up, engage, refine, and keep moving forward—success is built one step at a time.

This episode is brought to you by PureTax, LLC. Tax preparation services without the pressure. When all you need is to get your tax return done, take the stress out of tax season by working with a firm that has simplified the process and the pricing. Find out more about how we started.

Moments

00:00 "Growth-Driven Marketing Insights with Neil Rogers"

06:04 Discovering a Passion for Bartending

06:43 "Rejecting Hospitality Career"

10:03 Lifelong Love for Entertainment

13:56 "Make It Happen Team"

16:48 "We're in the Hospitality Business"

22:29 Creativity Boosts Productivity and Solutions

25:33 "Independent Logo Franchise Owner"

27:13 Creative Roles: Focal, Augmenter, Connector, Expander

30:11 Positive Activity: Info & Insights

Running a business doesn’t have to run your life.

Without a business partner who holds you accountable, it’s easy to be so busy ‘doing’ business that you don’t have the right strategy to grow your business.

Stop letting your business run you. At Harper & Co CPA Plus, we know that you want to be empowered to build the lifestyle you envision. In order to do that you need a clear path to follow for success

Our clients enjoy a proactive partnership with us. Schedule a consultation with us today.

Download our free guide - Entrepreneurial Success Formula: How to Avoid Managing Your Business From Your Bank Account.

Glenn Harper, CPA, is the Owner and Managing Partner of Harper & Company CPAs Plus, a top 10 Managing Partner in the country (Accounting Today's 2022 MP Elite). His firm won the 2021 Luca Award for Firm of the Year. 

An entrepreneur and speaker, Glenn transformed his firm into an advisory-focused practice, doubling revenue and profit in two years. He teaches entrepreneurs to build financial and operational excellence, speaks nationwide to CPA firm owners about running their businesses like entrepreneurs, and consults with firms across the country. Glenn enjoys golfing, fishing, hiking, cooking, and spending time with his family.

Julie Smith, MBA, is a serial entrepreneur in the public accounting space. She is the Founder of EmpowerCPA™, Founder of PureTax, LLC, COO for Harper & Company CPAs Plus, and Co-host of the Empowering Entrepreneurs podcast. 

Named CPA.com's 2021 Innovative Practitioner of Year, Julie led Harper & Company's transition to an advisory-focused firm, doubling revenue and profit in two years. She now empowers other CPA firm owners nationwide through consulting and speaking, teaching them how to run their businesses like entrepreneurs. Julie lives in Columbus, OH with her family and enjoys travel, coaching basketball, sporting events, and the occasional shopping spree.

https://creativecommons.org/licenses/by-nd/4.0/

Copyright 2025 Glenn Harper

Whether you're an entrepreneur juggling business and personal life or simply seeking actionable strategies to bring more ease and joy to your journey, this episode is packed with wisdom, real-life examples, and plenty of "aha!" moments.

We are thrilled to welcome back returning guest Kelli Risse—a dynamic coach, speaker, and now accomplished author. Since her last appearance over two years ago, Kelli has been busy transforming not only her business but also the lives of countless high achievers seeking to redefine their paths to success.

Kelli shares her journey of writing her solo book, "Mindset Mastery: 25 Principles to Outsmart Burnout and Redefine Success," which quickly became an Amazon bestseller. She opens up about the creative process, her strategies for avoiding burnout even while tackling big projects, and the powerful difference between being a high achiever versus a peak performer.

Kelli also gives us a sneak peek into her upcoming book series, touches on the importance of energy management, harmony, and boundaries, and offers practical steps to help entrepreneurs shift from overwhelm to sustainability.

Get ready to take your mindset—and your business—to a whole new level!

This episode is brought to you by PureTax, LLC. Tax preparation services without the pressure. When all you need is to get your tax return done, take the stress out of tax season by working with a firm that has simplified the process and the pricing. Find out more about how we started.

Here are three key takeaways you can use immediately:

Ease is the Foundation, Not the Opposite, of Success: Kelli reminds us that building our lives and businesses on a foundation of ease leads to more sustainable results than grinding ourselves into burnout. Productivity isn’t about constant busyness; it’s about aligning work with true priorities.

Shift from High Achiever to Peak Performer: High achievers often operate in a constant state of urgency and exhaustion, while peak performers focus on sustainable energy, alignment, and letting go of perfectionism. Want to make lasting change? It starts with mindset—choose alignment over approval!

Harmony Over Balance: Trying to “balance” work and life perfectly usually leaves us more stressed. Kelli encourages leaders to seek harmony and alignment in all areas: mind, body, and spirit. Set boundaries, say no when needed, and schedule “me time”—your well-being is non-negotiable.

Moments

00:00 "Practical Coaching Principles Book"

04:36 "Coaching Principles and Tips Book"

06:41 "Peak Performance: Sustained Success Differently"

09:36 Rethinking Tomorrow's Plans

15:10 Align Mind, Body, Spirit?

19:05 Energy Over Time Management

19:51 "Boost Well-being for Entrepreneurs"

24:20 Prioritize "Me Time" for Balance

28:56 Evaluating the Value of 6am Calls

31:57 Evaluate Priorities in Decision-Making

35:01 Coaching: Growth, Accountability, Tough Love

38:42 Continuous Growth and Challenges

40:31 Coaching as Therapy Insight

45:19 "Improving Life Beyond Hard Work"

Running a business doesn’t have to run your life.

Without a business partner who holds you accountable, it’s easy to be so busy ‘doing’ business that you don’t have the right strategy to grow your business.

Stop letting your business run you. At Harper & Co CPA Plus, we know that you want to be empowered to build the lifestyle you envision. In order to do that you need a clear path to follow for success

Our clients enjoy a proactive partnership with us. Schedule a consultation with us today.

Download our free guide - Entrepreneurial Success Formula: How to Avoid Managing Your Business From Your Bank Account.

Glenn Harper, CPA, is the Owner and Managing Partner of Harper & Company CPAs Plus, a top 10 Managing Partner in the country (Accounting Today's 2022 MP Elite). His firm won the 2021 Luca Award for Firm of the Year. 

An entrepreneur and speaker, Glenn transformed his firm into an advisory-focused practice, doubling revenue and profit in two years. He teaches entrepreneurs to build financial and operational excellence, speaks nationwide to CPA firm owners about running their businesses like entrepreneurs, and consults with firms across the country. Glenn enjoys golfing, fishing, hiking, cooking, and spending time with his family.

Julie Smith, MBA, is a serial entrepreneur in the public accounting space. She is the Founder of EmpowerCPA™, Founder of PureTax, LLC, COO for Harper & Company CPAs Plus, and Co-host of the Empowering Entrepreneurs podcast. 

Named CPA.com's 2021 Innovative Practitioner of Year, Julie led Harper & Company's transition to an advisory-focused firm, doubling revenue and profit in two years. She now empowers other CPA firm owners nationwide through consulting and speaking, teaching them how to run their businesses like entrepreneurs. Julie lives in Columbus, OH with her family and enjoys travel, coaching basketball, sporting events, and the occasional shopping spree.

Copyright 2025 Glenn Harper

If you’re an entrepreneur feeling the grind, looking for ways to improve your performance—or simply craving an uplifting story about overcoming adversity—this episode is for you. John’s passion is contagious, and his commitment to making a global impact is something every listener can draw inspiration from.

John’s journey is anything but ordinary. Born in India, carrying an Australian passport, and now a global citizen, John has built an impressive resume: founder of a cutting-edge wellness tech brand (Lumaflex), official member of the Forbes Business Council, president of White Collar Fight Night in China, and collaborator with fitness organizations around the world. His true passion? Empowering people to recover, rebuild, and—as he puts it—“exceed the prior limits they have placed on themselves.”

From Rugby to Red Light:

John’s own journey from competitive sports to recovery after a life-threatening brain tumor sparked his obsession with wellness innovation. After an injury ended his rugby and boxing days, John discovered the power of red light therapy—thanks to a nudge from his wife. The result? A passion that led to the creation of Lumaflex, making red light therapy portable, accessible, and life-changing for millions.

The Entrepreneur’s Edge:

John shares how red light therapy isn’t just about healing sports injuries. It’s about fighting daily inflammation, improving sleep, boosting mental clarity, and energizing your “internal battery”—perfect for busy entrepreneurs tackling stress and long hours.

Lessons on Relationships & Resilience:

From building a business while living out of a suitcase to networking his way across continents, John reveals that his superpower isn’t just positivity, but his knack for connecting people and building strong relationships. It’s a reminder for all of us: Lean into your network and stay resilient. The entrepreneurial journey is a team sport!

No End Game—Just Growth:

When asked about his endgame, John admits he’s always looking for the next challenge. His mission? Making red light therapy a standard of care in wellness—and never settling for “good enough.”

This episode is brought to you by PureTax, LLC. Tax preparation services without the pressure. When all you need is to get your tax return done, take the stress out of tax season by working with a firm that has simplified the process and the pricing. Find out more about how we started.

Moments

00:00 Entrepreneur's Secret to Success

03:55 "Parental Influence: Guru Worship & Travel"

09:35 Rugby Injuries and Boxing Transition

10:32 Boxing-Related Brain Tumor Discovery

15:05 "Light Therapy: Emerging Medical Breakthrough"

17:32 "Embracing Change and Exploration"

21:08 Golf Fitness in Vegas

25:32 Challenges of Starting a Gym

28:55 Red Light Therapy Mogul

30:24 "Alan Derkasher: Innovating Consistent Light Therapy"

33:40 Portable Back Pain Relief Device

37:34 "Trust in Business: A Lost Art?"

41:48 Island Sunlight: A Natural Wonder

43:05 "Light Therapy Powers Cellular Function"

45:48 Optimize Focus and Energy Daily

51:48 Photobiomodulation Advocacy Goals

55:21 "Free Access to Fitness Academy"

Running a business doesn’t have to run your life.

Without a business partner who holds you accountable, it’s easy to be so busy ‘doing’ business that you don’t have the right strategy to grow your business.

Stop letting your business run you. At Harper & Co CPA Plus, we know that you want to be empowered to build the lifestyle you envision. In order to do that you need a clear path to follow for success

Our clients enjoy a proactive partnership with us. Schedule a consultation with us today.

Download our free guide - Entrepreneurial Success Formula: How to Avoid Managing Your Business From Your Bank Account.

Glenn Harper, CPA, is the Owner and Managing Partner of Harper & Company CPAs Plus, a top 10 Managing Partner in the country (Accounting Today's 2022 MP Elite). His firm won the 2021 Luca Award for Firm of the Year. 

An entrepreneur and speaker, Glenn transformed his firm into an advisory-focused practice, doubling revenue and profit in two years. He teaches entrepreneurs to build financial and operational excellence, speaks nationwide to CPA firm owners about running their businesses like entrepreneurs, and consults with firms across the country. Glenn enjoys golfing, fishing, hiking, cooking, and spending time with his family.

Julie Smith, MBA, is a serial entrepreneur in the public accounting space. She is the Founder of EmpowerCPA™, Founder of PureTax, LLC, COO for Harper & Company CPAs Plus, and Co-host of the Empowering Entrepreneurs podcast. 

Named CPA.com's 2021 Innovative Practitioner of Year, Julie led Harper & Company's transition to an advisory-focused firm, doubling revenue and profit in two years. She now empowers other CPA firm owners nationwide through consulting and speaking, teaching them how to run their businesses like entrepreneurs. Julie lives in Columbus, OH with her family and enjoys travel, coaching basketball, sporting events, and the occasional shopping spree.

Copyright 2025 Glenn Harper

https://creativecommons.org/licenses/by-nd/4.0/

Glenn and Julie talk about the practical side of tax savings. Whether you’re a business owner or an individual with a “real job.” Drawing from the latest tax law updates, they break down essential tax hacks: from maximizing your 401 (k) contributions and health savings accounts to making the most of charitable giving.

Business owners, in particular, will hear about unique deductions, the importance of choosing the right business entity, how to leverage income-shifting strategies like hiring your kids, and the ins and outs of the Augusta Rule for home offices.

If you’re looking to keep more of your hard-earned money in your pocket this tax season, you’ll want to catch all the actionable tips in this conversation.

This episode is brought to you by PureTax, LLC. Tax preparation services without the pressure. When all you need is to get your tax return done, take the stress out of tax season by working with a firm that has simplified the process and the pricing. Find out more about how we started.

Here are 3 key takeaways I found super valuable:

Maximize Pre-tax Benefits

If your employer offers a 401 (k) (especially with matching!) or a health savings account, contribute as much as you can reasonably afford. These strategies let you defer or deduct income, putting more money back in your pocket.

Business Deduction Tests Matter

For business owners, remember that the best deductions are “ordinary, necessary, and reasonable” for your business. Run every potential expense—from pianos to helicopters—through these filters (with your CPA!) to avoid unwanted IRS attention.

Income Shifting & Family Opportunities

Thinking strategically and shifting income to lower tax brackets—including paying your kids or spouse for legitimate work—can provide significant tax savings. Plus, don’t forget the power of the Augusta Rule and proper entity selection to maximize deductions.

Running a business doesn’t have to run your life.

Without a business partner who holds you accountable, it’s easy to be so busy ‘doing’ business that you don’t have the right strategy to grow your business.

Stop letting your business run you. At Harper & Co CPA Plus, we know that you want to be empowered to build the lifestyle you envision. In order to do that you need a clear path to follow for success

Our clients enjoy a proactive partnership with us. Schedule a consultation with us today.

Download our free guide - Entrepreneurial Success Formula: How to Avoid Managing Your Business From Your Bank Account.

Glenn Harper, CPA, is the Owner and Managing Partner of Harper & Company CPAs Plus, a top 10 Managing Partner in the country (Accounting Today's 2022 MP Elite). His firm won the 2021 Luca Award for Firm of the Year. 

An entrepreneur and speaker, Glenn transformed his firm into an advisory-focused practice, doubling revenue and profit in two years. He teaches entrepreneurs to build financial and operational excellence, speaks nationwide to CPA firm owners about running their businesses like entrepreneurs, and consults with firms across the country. Glenn enjoys golfing, fishing, hiking, cooking, and spending time with his family.

Julie Smith, MBA, is a serial entrepreneur in the public accounting space. She is the Founder of EmpowerCPA™, Founder of PureTax, LLC, COO for Harper & Company CPAs Plus, and Co-host of the Empowering Entrepreneurs podcast. 

Named CPA.com's 2021 Innovative Practitioner of Year, Julie led Harper & Company's transition to an advisory-focused firm, doubling revenue and profit in two years. She now empowers other CPA firm owners nationwide through consulting and speaking, teaching them how to run their businesses like entrepreneurs. Julie lives in Columbus, OH with her family and enjoys travel, coaching basketball, sporting events, and the occasional shopping spree.

Copyright 2025 Glenn Harper

https://creativecommons.org/licenses/by-nd/4.0/

Glenn Harper and Julie Smith discuss a topic every business owner dreads but can’t afford to ignore: money leaks.

Have you ever wondered where your hard-earned profits are slipping away? Glenn and Julie break down the sneaky ways businesses lose money—from unnoticed subscriptions and mounting overtime to hidden high interest rates and lax customer payments. With candid stories and actionable advice, they reveal how to spot these financial drains and what steps you can take to plug the holes.

Whether you’re a seasoned entrepreneur or just starting out, this episode will leave you thinking twice about your financials—and might just save you enough for your next vacation!

This episode is brought to you by PureTax, LLC. Tax preparation services without the pressure. When all you need is to get your tax return done, take the stress out of tax season by working with a firm that has simplified the process and the pricing. Find out more about how we started.

3 Key Takeaways for Entrepreneurs:

• Review Automated Payments & Subscriptions: Those small, recurring charges on your business credit card can snowball over time. Make it a habit to audit subscriptions at least once a year—what you save could fund your next vacation!
• Keep a Close Watch on Labor Costs: Overtime and inaccurate job costing can secretly burn through your payroll budget. Set clear parameters and delegate time-tracking to managers who can monitor labor hours and catch inefficiencies before they escalate.
• Don’t Let Unpaid Invoices Slide: Failing to follow up on Accounts Receivable delays cash flow. Establish firm processes to ensure customers pay on time—those outstanding payments could be the difference between scrambling and scaling.

Running a business doesn’t have to run your life.

Without a business partner who holds you accountable, it’s easy to be so busy ‘doing’ business that you don’t have the right strategy to grow your business.

Stop letting your business run you. At Harper & Co CPA Plus, we know that you want to be empowered to build the lifestyle you envision. In order to do that you need a clear path to follow for success

Our clients enjoy a proactive partnership with us. Schedule a consultation with us today.

Download our free guide - Entrepreneurial Success Formula: How to Avoid Managing Your Business From Your Bank Account.

Glenn Harper, CPA, is the Owner and Managing Partner of Harper & Company CPAs Plus, a top 10 Managing Partner in the country (Accounting Today's 2022 MP Elite). His firm won the 2021 Luca Award for Firm of the Year. 

An entrepreneur and speaker, Glenn transformed his firm into an advisory-focused practice, doubling revenue and profit in two years. He teaches entrepreneurs to build financial and operational excellence, speaks nationwide to CPA firm owners about running their businesses like entrepreneurs, and consults with firms across the country. Glenn enjoys golfing, fishing, hiking, cooking, and spending time with his family.

Julie Smith, MBA, is a serial entrepreneur in the public accounting space. She is the Founder of EmpowerCPA™, Founder of PureTax, LLC, COO for Harper & Company CPAs Plus, and Co-host of the Empowering Entrepreneurs podcast. 

Named CPA.com's 2021 Innovative Practitioner of Year, Julie led Harper & Company's transition to an advisory-focused firm, doubling revenue and profit in two years. She now empowers other CPA firm owners nationwide through consulting and speaking, teaching them how to run their businesses like entrepreneurs. Julie lives in Columbus, OH with her family and enjoys travel, coaching basketball, sporting events, and the occasional shopping spree.

Copyright 2025 Glenn Harper

https://creativecommons.org/licenses/by-nd/4.0/

Have you ever wondered how the grit of Midwest farm life translates into game-changing leadership and a bold approach to scaling businesses in today’s evolving world?

We sit down with the dynamic Julie Bonness to explore her remarkable journey from managing a hobby farm in Wisconsin to pioneering global talent solutions in the accounting industry.

Julie shares candid stories about her early experiences, the values instilled by family, navigating career-defining choices, and the seismic shifts she’s witnessed in hiring, scaling, and global workforce management.

This conversation uncovers not just the “how,” but the “why” behind building resilient teams, overcoming generational talent gaps, and the powerful art of connecting people and solutions. If you’re ready to challenge the status quo and discover what it truly takes to lead, scale, and leave a legacy, this episode is a must-listen.

3 Key Takeaways for Entrepreneurs:

Talent is Global—Tap into It.

Julie discusses how the digital age has removed geographic barriers, emphasizing that the global talent pool is not only accessible but often essential to scale efficiently. For content creators, this is a powerful reminder: widen your perspective on where to find collaborators, support, and inspiration.

Authenticity and Connection Win Every Time.

Julie’s approach to sales is grounded in genuine problem-solving and helping others—a lesson that translates directly to content creation. Leading with authenticity and viewing your audience as individuals to serve (rather than just an audience to sell to) builds deeper trust and engagement.

Continuous Adaptation Is Essential.

The episode highlights how quickly industries evolve (e.g., the shift to cloud, global teams, and AI in accounting). For content creators, keeping a learner’s mindset and being open to tech shifts or platform changes is crucial to staying relevant and expanding your reach.

This episode is brought to you by PureTax, LLC. Tax preparation services without the pressure. When all you need is to get your tax return done, take the stress out of tax season by working with a firm that has simplified the process and the pricing. Find out more about how we started.

Empowering Moments

05:01 Concrete to Cattle: My Childhood

06:53 Group Effort in Shared Responsibilities

12:16 Successful Entrepreneur Supports Family Farm

13:09 Mom Was the Family Glue

17:46 "Choosing Cost-Effective College at Home"

22:45 "Leadership, Transition, and Growth"

23:32 Hiring and Scaling Evolution

27:50 Technology's Impact on Modern Workers

29:54 CPA Exodus: Challenges and Global Shifts

33:48 Addressing Talent Challenges in CPA Firms

36:07 Double Standards in Workplace Security

39:37 "Importance of Client Referrals"

43:04 Trickle-Down Effect in Firms

47:10 Empowering Women through Transitions

49:25 Unison Globus: Workforce & Tax Support

Running a business doesn’t have to run your life.

Without a business partner who holds you accountable, it’s easy to be so busy ‘doing’ business that you don’t have the right strategy to grow your business.

Stop letting your business run you. At Harper & Co CPA Plus, we know that you want to be empowered to build the lifestyle you envision. In order to do that you need a clear path to follow for success

Our clients enjoy a proactive partnership with us. Schedule a consultation with us today.

Download our free guide - Entrepreneurial Success Formula: How to Avoid Managing Your Business From Your Bank Account.

Glenn Harper, CPA, is the Owner and Managing Partner of Harper & Company CPAs Plus, a top 10 Managing Partner in the country (Accounting Today's 2022 MP Elite). His firm won the 2021 Luca Award for Firm of the Year. 

An entrepreneur and speaker, Glenn transformed his firm into an advisory-focused practice, doubling revenue and profit in two years. He teaches entrepreneurs to build financial and operational excellence, speaks nationwide to CPA firm owners about running their businesses like entrepreneurs, and consults with firms across the country. Glenn enjoys golfing, fishing, hiking, cooking, and spending time with his family.

Julie Smith, MBA, is a serial entrepreneur in the public accounting space. She is the Founder of EmpowerCPA™, Founder of PureTax, LLC, COO for Harper & Company CPAs Plus, and Co-host of the Empowering Entrepreneurs podcast. 

Named CPA.com's 2021 Innovative Practitioner of Year, Julie led Harper & Company's transition to an advisory-focused firm, doubling revenue and profit in two years. She now empowers other CPA firm owners nationwide through consulting and speaking, teaching them how to run their businesses like entrepreneurs. Julie lives in Columbus, OH with her family and enjoys travel, coaching basketball, sporting events, and the occasional shopping spree.

Copyright 2025 Glenn Harper

https://creativecommons.org/licenses/by-nd/4.0/

The Power of Personal Branding - "A personal brand opens the doors you didn't even knock on. It goes ahead of you, it generates referrals, opportunities, invitations. It's the currency for influence, isn't it? And that's what accelerates your program." - Rob Brown

We have a truly special guest. Rob Brown is a global authority in the accounting industry and someone whose journey is as inspiring as it is unconventional. Rob went from being a high school math teacher in Yorkshire, England, to becoming a bestselling author, TEDx speaker, and the host of the Accounting Influence podcast. He’s made a name for himself by helping highly skilled professionals master the power of personal branding and visibility in their careers.

We discuss the importance of building your reputation. Why being technically skilled isn’t enough if you want to stand out, and how intentional networking and authenticity can transform your professional journey.

Rob shares his own story, shaped by his working-class background, what drove him to strike out on his own, and how he discovered the knack for bringing out brilliance in others who may not see it in themselves.

You’ll hear us discuss the hesitations so many of us have around self-promotion, what holds back entrepreneurs and accountants alike, and why making yourself visible in a crowded marketplace doesn’t have to mean being cringey or salesy. Rob offers practical insights you can act on. Whether you’re starting out solo or looking to scale your business and make a bigger impact.

So if you’re ready for an honest, inspiring conversation full of British wit, actionable ideas, and a fresh look at what it takes to build your brand from the inside out, you won’t want to miss this episode.

Empowering Moments

00:00 "Mastering Visibility and Branding"

05:31 From Teaching to Business Success

09:57 Embracing Entrepreneurial Uncertainty

12:41 Choosing Teaching in Northern England

16:13 Education System Fails Entrepreneurs

17:11 Education Lacks Practical Life Skills

21:27 "Teachers' Impact and Humility"

25:44 People Over Companies: Trust Matters

26:59 "Crafting Your Personal Brand"

30:10 Now's the Best Time

34:09 Accountants' Challenge: Balancing Promises

39:09 Find Your Unique Strengths

42:43 Network Building Through Online Outreach

46:34 Define Your Desired Legacy

47:56 Crafting Personal Brand Strategy

52:18 Crafting Thought Leadership Content

54:31 Legacy Focused on Family Happiness

This episode is brought to you by PureTax, LLC. Tax preparation services without the pressure. When all you need is to get your tax return done, take the stress out of tax season by working with a firm that has simplified the process and the pricing. Find out more about how we started.

Top 3 Takeaways for Entrepreneurs & Professionals:

• Your Authentic Brand Starts With You: Before building a public persona, define what you truly want people to say about you. Your reputation is shaped by intentional branding, not by accident.
• Network Intentionally, Not Accidentally: Building relationships isn’t just about showing up; it’s about asking better questions, having meaningful conversations, and nurturing trust that leads to real opportunities.
• Showcase, Don’t Shy Away: If you’re great at what you do, it’s not bragging—it’s “ethical bragging.” Don’t be afraid to shine a light on your strengths and success stories; your future clients will thank you for it.

Accounting Influencers Roundtable Podcast

Running a business doesn’t have to run your life.

Without a business partner who holds you accountable, it’s easy to be so busy ‘doing’ business that you don’t have the right strategy to grow your business.

Stop letting your business run you. At Harper & Co CPA Plus, we know that you want to be empowered to build the lifestyle you envision. In order to do that you need a clear path to follow for success

Our clients enjoy a proactive partnership with us. Schedule a consultation with us today.

Download our free guide - Entrepreneurial Success Formula: How to Avoid Managing Your Business From Your Bank Account.

Glenn Harper, CPA, is the Owner and Managing Partner of Harper & Company CPAs Plus, a top 10 Managing Partner in the country (Accounting Today's 2022 MP Elite). His firm won the 2021 Luca Award for Firm of the Year. 

An entrepreneur and speaker, Glenn transformed his firm into an advisory-focused practice, doubling revenue and profit in two years. He teaches entrepreneurs to build financial and operational excellence, speaks nationwide to CPA firm owners about running their businesses like entrepreneurs, and consults with firms across the country. Glenn enjoys golfing, fishing, hiking, cooking, and spending time with his family.

Julie Smith, MBA, is a serial entrepreneur in the public accounting space. She is the Founder of EmpowerCPA™, Founder of PureTax, LLC, COO for Harper & Company CPAs Plus, and Co-host of the Empowering Entrepreneurs podcast. 

Named CPA.com's 2021 Innovative Practitioner of Year, Julie led Harper & Company's transition to an advisory-focused firm, doubling revenue and profit in two years. She now empowers other CPA firm owners nationwide through consulting and speaking, teaching them how to run their businesses like entrepreneurs. Julie lives in Columbus, OH with her family and enjoys travel, coaching basketball, sporting events, and the occasional shopping spree.

Copyright 2025 Glenn Harper

https://creativecommons.org/licenses/by-nd/4.0/

Learn from a real, honest (and pretty funny) conversation about how couples—specifically the “chicks” and “dudes”—spend money, especially when you throw entrepreneurship into the mix.

Glenn breaks down his go-to strategy for keeping household finances in check when your income is anything but steady, while Julie questions whether “bare minimum” budgets really let anyone thrive.

They get into the nitty-gritty of why joint accounts seem to mysteriously drain themselves, how guys tend to drop big bucks on a single item while women make more frequent, smaller purchases, and why splitting your fun money into his-and-hers (or hers-and-hers, or his-and-his!) accounts can be a total game changer. Spoiler alert: you might want to start a vacation fund after this episode.

If you’re sick of fighting about money with your partner or just want some practical, down-to-earth tips to make life as an entrepreneurial couple a little easier, tune in—there’s even some banter about jorts and golf clubs you don’t want to miss. So kick back, relax, and let’s talk about getting more value out of your hard-earned cash!

Empowering Moments

00:00 Household Finances: Spending Issues

05:20 Budgeting: Gender Spending Habits

07:36 "Living Within Means for Enjoyment"

10:09 "Enhancing Life by Smart Spending"

This episode is brought to you by PureTax, LLC. Tax preparation services without the pressure. When all you need is to get your tax return done, take the stress out of tax season by working with a firm that has simplified the process and the pricing. Find out more about how we started.

Here are 3 key takeaways you won’t want to miss:

Define Core vs. Discretionary Spending

Start by setting a clear budget for fixed household expenses, then allocate separate discretionary accounts for each partner. This approach helps keep spending balanced and arguments at bay.

Transparency is Key

Agree together—using a spreadsheet or whatever works for you—on what counts as joint expenses and personal spending. Honest conversations are the foundation for avoiding surprise credit card bills or missing vacation funds.

Preserve the Fun (and the Peace!)

By giving each partner their own “no-questions-asked” discretionary account, you reduce resentment, foster independence, and free up energy to focus on meaningful experiences, not just more “stuff.”

Glenn Harper, CPA, is the Owner and Managing Partner of Harper & Company CPAs Plus, a top 10 Managing Partner in the country (Accounting Today's 2022 MP Elite). His firm won the 2021 Luca Award for Firm of the Year. 

An entrepreneur and speaker, Glenn transformed his firm into an advisory-focused practice, doubling revenue and profit in two years. He teaches entrepreneurs to build financial and operational excellence, speaks nationwide to CPA firm owners about running their businesses like entrepreneurs, and consults with firms across the country. Glenn enjoys golfing, fishing, hiking, cooking, and spending time with his family.

Julie Smith, MBA, is a serial entrepreneur in the public accounting space. She is the Founder of EmpowerCPA™, Founder of PureTax, LLC, COO for Harper & Company CPAs Plus, and Co-host of the Empowering Entrepreneurs podcast. 

Named CPA.com's 2021 Innovative Practitioner of Year, Julie led Harper & Company's transition to an advisory-focused firm, doubling revenue and profit in two years. She now empowers other CPA firm owners nationwide through consulting and speaking, teaching them how to run their businesses like entrepreneurs. Julie lives in Columbus, OH with her family and enjoys travel, coaching basketball, sporting events, and the occasional shopping spree.

Running a business doesn’t have to run your life.

Without a business partner who holds you accountable, it’s easy to be so busy ‘doing’ business that you don’t have the right strategy to grow your business.

Stop letting your business run you. At Harper & Co CPA Plus, we know that you want to be empowered to build the lifestyle you envision. In order to do that you need a clear path to follow for success

Our clients enjoy a proactive partnership with us. Schedule a consultation with us today.

Download our free guide - Entrepreneurial Success Formula: How to Avoid Managing Your Business From Your Bank Account.

Copyright 2025 Glenn Harper

https://creativecommons.org/licenses/by-nd/4.0/

We sit down with Steve Gelley—entrepreneur, CEO of Blueprint Ventures, managing partner of multiple ventures, and host of the Next Exit podcast. Steve shares his journey from a rebellious student on Long Island to a business leader known for building, scaling, and successfully exiting companies.

Listen in as Steve opens up about the ups and downs of entrepreneurship, including the lessons learned from getting fired and even being kicked out of school, the importance of embracing risk, and the value of building the right team. He offers a candid look at the challenges founders face as they transition from doers to leaders and reveals what it really takes to scale a business in today's market.

Steve’s passion for empowering other entrepreneurs comes through as he discusses his approach to investing in startups, fostering resourcefulness, and building a culture that helps both businesses and people thrive.

Whether you’re an aspiring entrepreneur or an established founder looking to take your business to the next level, you’ll find plenty of wisdom and actionable insights in this conversation with Steve Gelley.

Key Moments

00:00 Serial Entrepreneur and Growth Strategist

05:40 Unfair School Enrollment Practices

07:49 College Choice with Average GPA

09:42 First Job Lessons at Hardee's

15:23 Momentum's Critical Role in Business

16:33 Learning from Business Mistakes

21:02 "Turning Founders into CEOs"

23:04 "Assessing Risk-Taking in Business"

26:25 "Ensuring Cultural Fit in Hiring"

29:52 Funding and Resource Allocation Model

35:13 Effective Team Building for Entrepreneurs

38:41 Age vs. Experience in Leadership

40:55 Branding's Role in Successful Hiring

45:11 Unmasking Startup Myths

48:27 Team-Building as Superpower

51:02 Elevating Others Through Opportunity

This episode is brought to you by PureTax, LLC. Tax preparation services without the pressure. When all you need is to get your tax return done, take the stress out of tax season by working with a firm that has simplified the process and the pricing. Find out more about how we started.

Here are 3 key takeaways for fellow entrepreneurs:

1. Embrace calculated risk and take decisive action.

Steve stressed that making decisions—fast and fearlessly—is what separates the successful founders from those who stay stuck. "We’d rather you make five wrong decisions than not make any at all!”

2. Build a team that balances your weaknesses.

The magic happens when you stop hiring people just because you “like” them and start hiring for complementary strengths—especially detail-orientation and operational excellence if you’re a high-vision founder.

3. Fractional resources can accelerate growth (without breaking the bank).

You don’t need to hire every expert full-time. Steve’s model leverages fractionalizing high-level talent, which gives startups access to top-tier strategy and execution while maintaining lean operations.

Running a business doesn’t have to run your life.

Without a business partner who holds you accountable, it’s easy to be so busy ‘doing’ business that you don’t have the right strategy to grow your business.

Stop letting your business run you. At Harper & Co CPA Plus, we know that you want to be empowered to build the lifestyle you envision. In order to do that you need a clear path to follow for success

Our clients enjoy a proactive partnership with us. Schedule a consultation with us today.

Download our free guide - Entrepreneurial Success Formula: How to Avoid Managing Your Business From Your Bank Account.

Julie Smith, MBA, is a serial entrepreneur in the public accounting space. She is the Founder of EmpowerCPA™, Founder of PureTax, LLC, COO for Harper & Company CPAs Plus, and Co-host of the Empowering Entrepreneurs podcast. 

Named CPA.com's 2021 Innovative Practitioner of Year, Julie led Harper & Company's transition to an advisory-focused firm, doubling revenue and profit in two years. She now empowers other CPA firm owners nationwide through consulting and speaking, teaching them how to run their businesses like entrepreneurs. Julie lives in Columbus, OH with her family and enjoys travel, coaching basketball, sporting events, and the occasional shopping spree.

Glenn Harper, CPA, is the Owner and Managing Partner of Harper & Company CPAs Plus, a top 10 Managing Partner in the country (Accounting Today's 2022 MP Elite). His firm won the 2021 Luca Award for Firm of the Year. 

An entrepreneur and speaker, Glenn transformed his firm into an advisory-focused practice, doubling revenue and profit in two years. He teaches entrepreneurs to build financial and operational excellence, speaks nationwide to CPA firm owners about running their businesses like entrepreneurs, and consults with firms across the country. Glenn enjoys golfing, fishing, hiking, cooking, and spending time with his family.

Copyright 2025 Glenn Harper

How would you approach building generosity and responsibility in a family with new wealth?

We welcome Jim Sheils.

Jim is the co-owner of Southern Impression Homes, founder of 18 Summers, and author of the Wall Street Journal bestseller “The Family Board Meeting.” He’s made it his life’s mission to help entrepreneurs blend their passion for business with a thriving, intentional family life.

Drawing from personal experience—like lending a kidney to his own father and designing a curriculum for his children—Jim offers candid insights into creating lasting connections at home, even while building success at work.

In this episode, Jim shares how his entrepreneurial spirit emerged early, why traditional education left him questioning the system, and how the wisdom of his grandfathers shaped his approach to business and life. He opens up about the challenges of generational wealth, raising grounded and grateful kids, and his practical strategies for maximizing those precious “18 summers” with your children.

If you’re an entrepreneur searching for more than just business success—and want to ensure your family thrives alongside your ventures—this conversation is a must-listen. Tune in for inspiration, actionable advice, and Jim’s timeless reminder: true wealth is measured in moments, not just money.

Empowering Moments

04:33 Purpose of Traditional Schooling?

08:10 Higher Education: Is It Necessary?

11:55 "Personal Development Awakening"

16:06 "Persistence in Challenging Conditions"

17:01 "Early Lessons in Overcoming Rejection"

22:39 College Majors: Choose Wisely

24:34 Balancing Family and Business

28:14 Building Generational Wealth Solutions

32:48 Entrepreneurial Guilt and Family Dynamics

33:48 Entrepreneurship vs. Family: A Dilemma

39:31 Parental Challenges: Entrepreneur's Burden

40:13 "Teens: Support Your Parents?"

46:01 "A Positive Haunting: Real Estate"

47:49 Busy Parent's Life Reflections

51:19 "Expanding Influence While Staying Balanced"

This episode is brought to you by PureTax, LLC. Tax preparation services without the pressure. When all you need is to get your tax return done, take the stress out of tax season by working with a firm that has simplified the process and the pricing. Find out more about how we started.

Here are 3 key takeaways from our conversation with Jim:

• Questioning the Status Quo Can Spark Innovation: Jim was an “entrepreneur against the grain” from a young age, always asking why—and that curiosity eventually led him to build creative businesses and challenge traditional education for his own kids.
• Family Board Meetings Matter: Jim’s “18 Summers” concept is a wake-up call—a reminder that 85% of quality time with our children happens before they turn 18. He shares practical strategies for entrepreneurs to intentionally create rhythms and boundaries, ensuring that family isn’t sidelined by business.
• Wealth is More Than Finances: Jim emphasizes having “the money talk” with your kids by their mid-teens, setting clear values and limits to prevent entitlement and empower responsible future generations. His transparent approach to family wealth and legacy is something every entrepreneur can benefit from.

Running a business doesn’t have to run your life.

Without a business partner who holds you accountable, it’s easy to be so busy ‘doing’ business that you don’t have the right strategy to grow your business.

Stop letting your business run you. At Harper & Co CPA Plus, we know that you want to be empowered to build the lifestyle you envision. In order to do that you need a clear path to follow for success

Our clients enjoy a proactive partnership with us. Schedule a consultation with us today.

Download our free guide - Entrepreneurial Success Formula: How to Avoid Managing Your Business From Your Bank Account.

Glenn Harper, CPA, is the Owner and Managing Partner of Harper & Company CPAs Plus, a top 10 Managing Partner in the country (Accounting Today's 2022 MP Elite). His firm won the 2021 Luca Award for Firm of the Year. 

An entrepreneur and speaker, Glenn transformed his firm into an advisory-focused practice, doubling revenue and profit in two years. He teaches entrepreneurs to build financial and operational excellence, speaks nationwide to CPA firm owners about running their businesses like entrepreneurs, and consults with firms across the country. Glenn enjoys golfing, fishing, hiking, cooking, and spending time with his family.

Julie Smith, MBA, is a serial entrepreneur in the public accounting space. She is the Founder of EmpowerCPA™, Founder of PureTax, LLC, COO for Harper & Company CPAs Plus, and Co-host of the Empowering Entrepreneurs podcast. 

Named CPA.com's 2021 Innovative Practitioner of Year, Julie led Harper & Company's transition to an advisory-focused firm, doubling revenue and profit in two years. She now empowers other CPA firm owners nationwide through consulting and speaking, teaching them how to run their businesses like entrepreneurs. Julie lives in Columbus, OH with her family and enjoys travel, coaching basketball, sporting events, and the occasional shopping spree.

Copyright 2025 Glenn Harper

https://creativecommons.org/licenses/by-nd/4.0/