This GPT has already supported hundreds of multi-generational businesses through complex transitions, and I’ve translated that experience into a free Custom GPT available on our website. Explore it here: https://bit.ly/art-of-succession-our-GPT
------------------------------------------------

Want to be a guest on our podcast? Apply and share your expertise with our audience at https://www.podmatch.com/member/artofsuccession
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Welcome to The Art of Succession Podcast. Host Barrett Young, CPA, talks with Jay Bourgana, Partner at MashTank, Founder & Mentor of Acquisition Collective, about buying, growing, and preparing businesses for succession. Jay shares how his career in banking, manufacturing, turnaround consulting, and real estate led him to complete more than 20 acquisitions. He also explains how strong teams, clear systems, clean data, and simple exit plans can increase business value. The conversation covers culture, leadership, AI, owner readiness, and why larger businesses can sometimes be safer to acquire than smaller ones. 

Jay Bourgana shares how his background in banking, manufacturing, and business turnarounds led him to build companies through acquisitions and complete more than 20 deals. He explains how strong leadership teams, clear systems, and careful culture building can help acquired businesses improve without losing the people and relationships that made them successful. Jay also discusses earning employee trust, preparing owners for an exit, keeping the business story simple, cleaning company data, and using better information to support growth, value, and succession.

Key Takeaways:

• Jay Bourgana shares how banking, manufacturing, and turnaround work led him into business acquisitions.
• Why strong teams, clear systems, and healthy cultures are essential for growing acquired companies.
• Lessons from completing more than 20 acquisitions and helping businesses prepare for succession.
• How keeping an exit plan simple and improving clean data can increase business value.
• His work today focuses on helping entrepreneurs buy, grow, and manage strong cash flow businesses.

Here are a few quotes from the episode:

• “Before we talk about AI, let's think about our data first.” - Jay Bourgana
• “The more simple the story is, the more options you have.” - Jay Bourgana
• “If you're going to buy a business, buy the largest business you can afford because bigger usually is harder to kill.” - Jay Bourgana

Join Jay Bourgana, operator, investor, and Founder of Acquisition Collective, as he shares lessons from banking, manufacturing, turnaround consulting, and completing more than 20 acquisitions. He explains how strong teams, clear systems, healthy cultures, and clean data can improve business performance while helping owners prepare for growth, successful exits, and long-term succession..

Episode Highlights
[00:00:00] - Teaser
[00:01:52] - Introducing guest Jay Bourgana
[00:02:16] - Jay's mission: saving businesses and communities through succession
[00:05:26] - Jay's background: banking, manufacturing in China, and turnaround consulting
[00:06:20] - Selling 70% of company, doing 25 acquisitions, and retiring to Hawaii
[00:08:21] - Why acquisitions became necessary: rising CAC, need to increase LTV
[00:11:44] - Building culture and management bench: "80% of a turnaround was people"
[00:15:31] - How Jay sold his company: cold email led to culture video that sealed the deal
[00:18:40] - Balancing profits with culture: happy people drive margins and referrals
[00:23:03] - Post-acquisition trust-building: fix visible issues first, implement big changes in year two
[00:25:29] - Why Jay returned from retirement: missed learning, the arena, and mentoring
[00:31:14] - Starting Acquisition Collective: leveraging mastermind groups and free M&A education
[00:33:46] - Cutting through acquisition hype
[00:39:39] - Don't make big changes right before selling
[00:43:44] - AI's impact on accounting and professional services
[00:48:55] - AI will kill the billable hour model
[00:52:34] - Clean up your data before worrying about AI
[00:58:14] - Bigger businesses are safer than small ones
[01:04:49] - Jay's kids' business school program
[01:07:09] - Where to find Jay Bourgana

Disclosure: Portions of this episode (such as the introduction or promotional segments) use AI-generated voice narration produced under human editorial review.

FOLLOW THE GUEST:

• Jay Bourgana - LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/jay-bourgana/  
• Jay Bourgana - Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/jay.bourgana  
• Jay Bourgana - Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/jay_bourgana/   
• Company LinkedIn - MashTank: https://www.linkedin.com/company/mashtank/  
• Company LinkedIn - Acquisition Collective: https://www.linkedin.com/company/acquisition-collective/  
• Company Website - MashTank: https://mashtank.com/  
• Company Website - Acquisition Collective: https://acquisitionscollective.biz/  
• YouTube - Acquisition Collective: https://www.youtube.com/@AcquisitionCollective  
• Facebook - Acquisition Collective: https://www.facebook.com/profile.php?id=61584925977602&sk 

FOLLOW THE HOST:

• LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/barrettyoung 
• Company LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/company/gwcpa/ 
• Website: https://gwcpas.com/ 
• Email: [email protected] 

FOLLOW THE PODCAST:

• Apple Podcast: https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/the-art-of-succession/id1742796896 
• YouTube: https://youtube.com/@artofsuccession 
• Spotify: https://open.spotify.com/show/7uhogBxFKWAAetAbD8TVQR  
• LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/company/art-of-succession-podcast/ 
• Website: https://gwcpas.com/podcast 

This GPT has already supported hundreds of multi-generational businesses through complex transitions, and I’ve translated that experience into a free Custom GPT available on our website. Explore it here: https://bit.ly/art-of-succession-our-GPT
------------------------------------------------

Want to be a guest on our podcast? Apply and share your expertise with our audience at https://www.podmatch.com/member/artofsuccession
------------------------------------------------
Welcome to The Art of Succession Podcast. Host Barrett Young, CPA, talks with Craig Paxton, Competitive Advantage Architect at Visionary Results and Fractional COO at The Roster Agency, about building businesses through competitive advantage and operational excellence. Craig shares how he transitioned from process improvement consulting into a CEO role, led a private equity backed company through a successful turnaround and acquisition, and now helps business owners create strategies that set them apart. He also discusses leadership development, building systems around a competitive advantage, managing change, and preparing businesses for long term growth and succession.

Craig Paxton shares how his background in process improvement led him into a CEO role where he helped turn around a private equity backed company and prepare it for a successful acquisition. He explains how giving managers ownership of key business metrics, building strong operational systems, and creating a culture of accountability improved performance across the organisation. Craig also discusses helping business owners identify a true competitive advantage, align every part of the business around that strategy, manage organisational change, and build a stronger foundation for long term growth and succession.

Key Takeaways:

• Craig Paxton shares how process improvement consulting led him into a CEO role.
• Why building a true competitive advantage is essential for long term business success.
• Lessons from turning around a private equity backed company and leading it through acquisition.
• How empowering managers with ownership and clear metrics improves performance.
• His work today focuses on helping businesses build stronger systems around their competitive advantage and strategy.

Here are a few quotes from the episode:

• “The most important thing for a business is to create a competitive advantage and then build the entire business around it.” - Craig Paxton
• “You make the call, not me. You know your business better than I do.” - Craig Paxton
• “Strategy is our competitive advantage looks like this.” - Craig Paxton

Join Craig Paxton, Competitive Advantage Architect at Visionary Results and Fractional COO at The Roster Agency, as he shares lessons from moving from process improvement consulting into leading a private equity backed company as CEO. He explains how building a true competitive advantage, empowering managers with clear ownership, and creating strong operational systems helped improve business performance while preparing companies for long term growth, change, and succession.

Episode Highlights
[00:00] - Teaser
[01:59] - Introducing Craig Paxson
[04:09] - Craig's background: from manufacturing to healthcare operations
[06:01] - From consultant to CEO of a PE-owned company
[07:11] - Delegating outcomes, not tasks, to department managers
[09:19] - Implementing "applications per labour hour" as a key metric
[10:32] - Turnaround: $500K loss to $300K profit in two years
[12:50] - Transitioning from consultant to CEO: earning the team's trust
[14:54] - Teaching managers to read P&Ls and own their numbers
[20:13] - Purpose over monetary incentives: engaging employees
[23:05] - Daily habits vs big events: the "tooth care" analogy
[26:36] - Handling layoffs with compassion built credibility
[33:10] - Why most "competitive advantages" aren't actually unique
[36:11] - Strategy starts with the market, not with goals
[40:44] - Competitive advantage permeates sales, ops, finance, and hiring
[47:41] - Who should be involved in strategy? Depends on company size
[50:22] - Having the courage to be different: the cost of staying the same
[53:03] - Thesis: create a competitive advantage, build everything around it
[56:54] - Challenging the "hustle" belief among entrepreneurs
[58:45] - Upcoming book: "Strategy Is The Menu" and where to find Craig

Craig shares more of his approach in Visionary Velocity, including practical steps to help you build your business around a true competitive advantage. Learn more here: https://go.visionaryresults.com/velocity-book-sales 

As Craig says, "Let's talk." If you'd like to discuss your business, competitive advantage, or strategy, book a 15-minute discovery call and continue the conversation: https://visionaryresults.com/discovery 

FOLLOW THE GUEST:

• Craig Paxson - LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/craigpaxson/ 
• Company LinkedIn - Visionary Results: https://www.linkedin.com/company/visionary-results/ 
• Company LinkedIn - The Roster® Agency: https://www.linkedin.com/company/theroster/ 
• Company Website - Visionary Results: https://visionaryresults.com/ 
• Company Website - The Roaster® Agency: https://www.theroster.agency/ 

FOLLOW THE HOST:

• LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/barrettyoung 
• Company LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/company/gwcpa/ 
• Website: https://gwcpas.com/ 
• Email: [email protected] 

FOLLOW THE PODCAST:

• Apple Podcast: https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/the-art-of-succession/id1742796896 
• YouTube: https://youtube.com/@artofsuccession 
• Spotify: https://open.spotify.com/show/7uhogBxFKWAAetAbD8TVQR  
• LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/company/art-of-succession-podcast/ 
• Website: https://gwcpas.com/podcast 

This GPT has already supported hundreds of multi-generational businesses through complex transitions, and I’ve translated that experience into a free Custom GPT available on our website. Explore it here: https://bit.ly/art-of-succession-our-GPT
------------------------------------------------

Want to be a guest on our podcast? Apply and share your expertise with our audience at https://www.podmatch.com/member/artofsuccession
------------------------------------------------
Welcome to The Art of Succession Podcast. Host Barrett Young, CPA, talks with Ryan Steuer, Author of PBL Simplified & CEO at Magnify Learning and also a Project-Based Learning Keynote Speaker & Author, about building an education company focused on project-based learning and real-world student engagement. Ryan shares how he transitioned from engineering and teaching into entrepreneurship, grew his business through teacher training and community partnerships, and developed systems to scale across schools nationwide. He also discusses leadership transitions in education, strategic growth through acquisitions, key person risk, and how business owners can build stronger systems for long-term success.

Ryan Steuer shares his journey from engineering and teaching into building Magnify Learning, a company focused on project-based learning and real-world education experiences for students. He explains how working with schools, teachers, and community partners helped grow the business from a small operation into a national training company. Ryan discusses creating systems to train educators, developing leadership programmes for school administrators, and expanding through partnerships and strategic growth opportunities. He also highlights the importance of succession planning in schools, reducing key person risk, and building a strong team and culture to support long-term growth and future transitions.

Key Takeaways:

• Ryan Steuer built Magnify Learning after careers in engineering and teaching.
• How project-based learning improves student engagement and career readiness.
• Lessons from scaling a national education training business.
• Why succession planning and leadership support matter in schools.
• His work today focuses on long-term growth through stronger systems and partnerships.

Here are a few quotes from the episode:

• “School was not important to them.” - Ryan Steuer
• “We created a certification process.” - Ryan Steuer
• “You can let things go, you can delegate things.” - Ryan Steuer

Join Ryan Steuer, founder and CEO of Magnify Learning, as he shares lessons from moving from engineering and teaching into building a national education training company. He explains how project-based learning, teacher training, and community partnerships helped grow the business while creating stronger systems, leadership support, and long-term opportunities for schools and students.

Episode Highlights
[00:00] - Teaser
[01:49] - Introducing Guest Ryan Steuer
[02:17] - Why succession planning fails in schools
[04:11] - From engineering to teaching 8th-grade English
[07:02] - Real-world example: 8th graders redesign a museum's curriculum
[10:55] - Early growth: sending a teacher to Arizona for $3,000
[13:50] - Key lesson: leadership changes can wipe out progress
[16:29] - How projects align with state standards (genetics & Hemophilia Society)
[22:46] - Shifting from doer to leader: "85% as good as me is fine"
[26:25] - Biggest growth barrier: leads and introductions
[27:47] - Evaluating acquisitions in the charter school market
[31:01] - Risk of acquiring solopreneurs: loyalty to the individual
[35:48] - Coaching agents through industry changes with honesty
[39:04] - Putting a retention clause in his acquisition contract
[41:38] - M&A advice: who controls employee benefits after a deal?
[46:06] - Using the natural cushion between merger timing and plan renewals
[48:49] - Letting go: you don't have to do everything
[51:35] - What Ryan wants to be remembered for
[52:09] - Where to find Ryan & Magnify Learning

FOLLOW THE GUEST:

• Ryan Steuer - LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/ryansteuer/ 
• Company LinkedIn (Magnify Learning): https://www.linkedin.com/company/magnify-learning/ 
• Company Website (Magnify Learning): https://magnifypbl.com/ 

FOLLOW THE HOST:

• LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/barrettyoung 
• Company LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/company/gwcpa/ 
• Website: https://gwcpas.com/ 
• Email: [email protected] 

FOLLOW THE PODCAST:

• Apple Podcast: https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/the-art-of-succession/id1742796896 
• YouTube: https://youtube.com/@artofsuccession 
• Spotify: https://open.spotify.com/show/7uhogBxFKWAAetAbD8TVQR  
• LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/company/art-of-succession-podcast/ 
• Website: https://gwcpas.com/podcast 

This GPT has already supported hundreds of multi-generational businesses through complex transitions, and I’ve translated that experience into a free Custom GPT available on our website. Explore it here: https://bit.ly/art-of-succession-our-GPT
------------------------------------------------

Want to be a guest on our podcast? Apply and share your expertise with our audience at https://www.podmatch.com/member/artofsuccession
------------------------------------------------
Welcome to The Art of Succession Podcast. Host Barrett Young, CPA, talks with Brian Calvert, Company Owner at Business Health Market and Managing Partner at HST of Western New York Inc, about transitioning from commercial property management into the health insurance industry and building a growing agency. Brian shares lessons from launching his business, hiring and developing agents, and expanding through the acquisition of a book of business to add group benefits services. He also discusses how a consultative approach, strong client relationships, and strategic networking drive growth, along with insights on employee benefits, mergers, and how business owners can make better decisions around insurance and long-term planning.

Brian Calvert shares his journey from commercial property management into the health insurance industry, where he built and grew his own agency from the ground up. He explains how planning his career transition, focusing on sales skills, and developing a team helped him create a sustainable business. Brian discusses expanding through the acquisition of a small book of business, which allowed him to enter the group benefits market and grow through referrals. He also highlights the importance of client service, strong relationships, and a consultative approach in driving long-term success. Today, Brian continues to scale his business by supporting small employers, improving employee benefits strategies, and helping clients make informed decisions during growth and change.

Key Takeaways:

• Brian Calvert transitioned from commercial real estate to build a health insurance agency from scratch.
• How focusing on a few core products and strong sales skills supported early growth.
• Lessons from acquiring a small book of business to expand into group benefits.
• Why client service and relationships are key to retention and long-term success.
• His work today focuses on helping small businesses improve benefits and support employee needs.

Here are a few quotes from the episode:

• “I really enjoy seeing other people succeed.” - Brian Calvert
• “Stay in your lane and become an expert in what you do.” - Brian Calvert
• “People will leave a job for better benefits even for less money.” - Brian Calvert

Join Brian Calvert, owner of Business Health Market, as he shares lessons from transitioning out of commercial property management to build and grow a health insurance agency. He explains how focusing on sales, building a strong team, and expanding through acquisition helped him scale into new markets like group benefits and support small businesses.

Episode Highlights
[00:00] - Teaser
[01:57] - Host introduces Brian Calvert
[02:27] - From mall manager to health insurance broker
[04:59] - How helping mall tenants sparked his entrepreneurial drive
[06:18] - Planning a two-year exit to fund his new business
[07:41] - Risks & rewards of a mid-career lateral move
[12:38] - Early failure: spreading himself too thin
[14:43] - Why he bought a book of business in 2024
[18:03] - Seller handoff: three months of introductions & flying to clients
[19:58] - How acquisition leapfrogged website & credibility hurdles
[24:18] - Group benefits vs. individuals: longer sales cycles
[26:24] - Differentiating through service & quarterly check-ins
[31:11] - Building a team from day one to help others succeed
[35:56] - Coaching agents through industry changes with honesty
[39:12] - Putting a retention clause in his acquisition contract
[41:46] - M&A advice: who controls employee benefits after a deal?
[46:14] - Using the natural cushion between merger timing and plan renewals
[48:57] - Biggest trend in benefits: mental health & 0 copays
[51:43] - The myth that entrepreneurs have immediate freedom
[52:17] - What he wants his successor to remember: listening with kindness

FOLLOW THE GUEST:

• Brian Calvert - LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/brian-calvert-31aa3a49/ 
• Company LinkedIn (Business Health Market): https://www.linkedin.com/company/business-health-market/ 
• Company Website (Business Health Market): https://businesshealthmarket.com/ 

FOLLOW THE HOST:

• LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/barrettyoung 
• Company LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/company/gwcpa/ 
• Website: https://gwcpas.com/ 
• Email: [email protected] 

FOLLOW THE PODCAST:

• Apple Podcast: https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/the-art-of-succession/id1742796896 
• YouTube: https://youtube.com/@artofsuccession 
• Spotify: https://open.spotify.com/show/7uhogBxFKWAAetAbD8TVQR  
• LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/company/art-of-succession-podcast/ 
• Website: https://gwcpas.com/podcast 

This GPT has already supported hundreds of multi-generational businesses through complex transitions, and I’ve translated that experience into a free Custom GPT available on our website. Explore it here: https://bit.ly/art-of-succession-our-GPT
------------------------------------------------

Want to be a guest on our podcast? Apply and share your expertise with our audience at https://www.podmatch.com/member/artofsuccession
------------------------------------------------
Welcome to The Art of Succession Podcast. Host Barrett Young, CPA, talks with Jon Morris, Chief Executive Officer at Fiscal Advocate, Inc., and Founder and Executive Director at The Professional Service Community, about building and scaling a digital marketing agency from a ten-thousand-dollar business plan competition grant to forty million dollars in revenue before selling the company. Jon shares lessons from growing Rise Interactive, including hiring analytical talent, using financial data to guide decisions, and investing heavily in sales and marketing to accelerate growth. He also discusses his approach to succession, why strong financial systems matter when preparing for an exit, and how he now helps professional service firms improve profit, cash flow, and growth through better financial insight.

Jon Morris shares his journey as an entrepreneur who built and scaled a digital marketing agency from a ten-thousand-dollar grant into a forty-million-dollar company before selling the business. He talks about how financial discipline, strong hiring standards, and a data-driven approach helped his company grow quickly during the rise of digital marketing. Jon explains how understanding cash flow, profit margins, and industry benchmarks helped him make better decisions while building a high-performing team. He also reflects on lessons from leadership, succession planning, and knowing when it was the right time to exit. Today, Jon leads Fiscal Advocate and founded The Professional Service Community, where he helps professional service firms improve profit, cash flow, and growth through practical financial insight.

Key Takeaways:

• Jon Morris built a digital marketing agency from a ten-thousand-dollar grant to forty million dollars in revenue.
• How data-driven decisions and strong hiring helped scale the business.
• Lessons on using financial benchmarks to guide growth.
• Why strong financial systems matter when preparing for an exit.
• His work today is helping firms improve profit, cash flow, and growth.

Here are a few quotes from the episode:

• “I took ten thousand dollars and turned it into forty million in sixteen years.” - Jon Morris
• “The only thing worse than going bankrupt is being a business of the living dead.” - Jon Morris
• “Pick an industry with wind at your back.” - Jon Morris

Join Jon Morris, Chief Executive Officer at Fiscal Advocate, Inc., and Founder and Executive Director at The Professional Service Community, as he shares lessons from building and selling a digital marketing agency that grew from a ten-thousand-dollar grant to forty million dollars in revenue. He explains how financial discipline, data-driven decisions, and strong hiring helped scale the business.

Episode Highlights
[00:00] - Teaser
[01:44] - Host introduces Jon Morris
[02:07] - Why Jon came on the show: sharing exit & scaling wisdom
[02:50] - Jon's origin story: born into a family of entrepreneurs
[06:22] - Building ugly websites & becoming an SEO pioneer
[07:07] - Becoming a dot-com casualty & learning from failure
[09:43] - Business school & the family "intervention."
[15:22] - Pivoting from seminars to a digital agency
[18:45] - "Double Wind": being in the right industry
[25:21] - How Quad/Graphics survived a declining industry
[28:15] - Three reasons Jon sold his agency
[30:44] - Taking only three weeks off before starting next venture
[33:55] - Turning around near-bankrupt companies
[42:44] - The hard lesson: people don't want sophisticated finance
[47:50] - Moving from high-growth to a "stodgy" industry
[50:14] - Pivoting to executive coaching & building AI tools
[54:41] - Why you shouldn't start with the exit in mind
[58:39] - Lightning Round: tea, cake & morning routine
[01:02:51] - Legacy: mentorship & doing the right thing
[01:05:00] - Where to find Jon Morris

FOLLOW THE GUEST:

• Jon Morris - LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/jonmorrisramsayinnovations/ 
• Company Website (Fiscal Advocate, Inc.): https://www.linkedin.com/company/fiscal-advocate-inc/ 
• Company Facebook (The Professional Service Community): https://www.linkedin.com/company/the-professional-service-community/ 
• Email: [email protected] 

FOLLOW THE HOST:

• LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/barrettyoung 
• Company LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/company/gwcpa/ 
• Website: https://gwcpas.com/ 
• Email: [email protected] 

FOLLOW THE PODCAST:

• Apple Podcast: https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/the-art-of-succession/id1742796896 
• YouTube: https://youtube.com/@artofsuccession 
• Spotify: https://open.spotify.com/show/7uhogBxFKWAAetAbD8TVQR  
• LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/company/art-of-succession-podcast/ 
• Website: https://gwcpas.com/podcast 

This GPT has already supported hundreds of multi-generational businesses through complex transitions, and I’ve translated that experience into a free Custom GPT available on our website. Explore it here: https://bit.ly/art-of-succession-our-GPT 

------------------------------------------------

Want to be a guest on our podcast? Apply and share your expertise with our audience at https://www.podmatch.com/member/artofsuccession
------------------------------------------------
Welcome to The Art of Succession Podcast. Host Barrett Young, CPA, a Tax and Marketing Partner at GWCPA, shares the firm's Quarter Two 2026 update and an inside look at their own succession journey. In this episode, Barrett discusses podcast growth, strategic planning, team changes, and the launch of the Beyond the Owner YouTube channel. He reflects on leadership transitions, the impact of AI on the accounting profession, developing future leaders, and building a long-term vision for the firm as it prepares for continued growth and succession.

Barrett is not just leading the firm through change; he is working to build a company that can grow beyond any one person. In this update, he shares how GWCPA is responding to key team departures, strengthening internal systems, and capturing knowledge through processes and custom GPTs. He discusses developing future leaders, exploring new ownership models, and preparing the team for an AI-driven future. By focusing on vision, adaptability, and long-term planning, Barrett is helping position the firm for continued growth and succession.

Barrett has spent the past year sharing GWCPA’s succession journey while building for the future. In this quarter two update, he explains how the firm is handling team changes, strategic planning, and the shift toward Beyond the Owner. He shares plans to strengthen systems, develop future leaders, and capture knowledge through SOPs and custom GPTs. His approach blends clear vision, adaptability, and long-term planning as the firm prepares for AI, growth, and future succession.

Key Takeaways:

• Barrett’s focus on building a firm that can grow beyond any one person.
• How strategic planning and EOS help create alignment around the company’s long-term vision.
• The impact of key team departures and the importance of building depth across the organization.
• Why developing future leaders and capturing knowledge are critical for succession.
• How GWCPA is preparing for growth, AI, and future ownership through clear planning and adaptability.

Additional Insights:

• How separating the podcast and company channels helps create a clearer focus for each audience.
• The role of strategic planning is to align the team around a shared vision and future goals.
• Why documenting knowledge through SOPs and custom GPTs helps strengthen the firm.
• How leadership development and CPA training support the next generation of professionals.
• Why principles, adaptability, and long-term thinking are guiding the firm through growth, succession, and AI-driven change.

Here are a few quotes from the episode:

• “The captain is not the ship.” - Barrett Young, CPA
• “GW is more than the people who make up GW.” - Barrett Young, CPA
• “Principles are flexible.” - Barrett Young, CPA

Join Barrett as he shares the Quarter Two 2026 update from GWCPA and provides an inside look at the firm's succession journey. Hear how strategic planning, leadership development, and new systems are helping the team navigate change after the departure of key employees. Barrett also discusses the launch of the Beyond the Owner channel, the firm's approach to AI, and the principles guiding a long-term vision for growth, succession, and client service.

Episode Highlights
[00:00] - Teaser
[01:47] - Q2 2026 Update & Podcast Milestones
[04:43] - Splitting YouTube: "Art of Succession" vs. "Beyond the Owner"
[07:06] - Future Plans: Co-Host & Media Company Vision
[09:22] - Recent Summits: Nashville & Thrive (Alignment)
[13:41] - Strategic Planning: 10-Year Principles Over Fixed Vision
[15:16] - Key Team Departures: Tax Reviewer & Manager Resign
[19:22] - Captain & Ship: GW Is Bigger Than Any Person
[22:27] - AI Strategy: Proactive Adaptation, Not Waiting to Retire
[25:19] - Bright Spot: Team Member Passing CPA Exams
[28:22] - Changing the Partner Succession Model
[35:38] - All Hands on Deck After Key Losses
[38:12] - New CRM & Systematized Marketing
[42:37] - Defining the Client Roadmap (Year 1 to 40)
[45:22] - Leadership Growth: Sharing Internal Process with Team
[47:41] - Closing: Gratitude & Season 5 Preview

FOLLOW THE HOST:

• LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/barrettyoung 
• Company LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/company/gwcpa/ 
• Website: https://gwcpas.com/ 
• Email: [email protected] 

FOLLOW THE PODCAST:

• Apple Podcast: https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/the-art-of-succession/id1742796896 
• YouTube: https://youtube.com/@artofsuccession 
• Spotify: https://open.spotify.com/show/7uhogBxFKWAAetAbD8TVQR  
• LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/company/art-of-succession-podcast/ 
• Website: https://gwcpas.com/podcast 

This GPT has already supported hundreds of multi-generational businesses through complex transitions, and I’ve translated that experience into a free Custom GPT available on our website. Explore it here: https://bit.ly/art-of-succession-our-GPT
------------------------------------------------

Want to be a guest on our podcast? Apply and share your expertise with our audience at https://www.podmatch.com/member/artofsuccession
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Welcome to The Art of Succession Podcast. Host Barrett Young, CPA, talks with Bob Labbe, Owner and Partner at The Ultimate Drink Coaster Co. LLC, serial entrepreneur, engineer, and inventor, about his decades of experience building and selling multiple air pollution control companies. Bob shares how he partnered with longtime collaborator John Halligan to grow businesses from small startups into successful companies that served industries across North America. He reflects on lessons from entrepreneurship, leadership partnerships, and selling businesses, including the importance of solving real problems for customers. Today, Bob continues creating solutions through new inventions, including the Ultimate Drink Coaster, while sharing insights from his career and his book on improving golf putting through simple, practical methods.

Bob shares his journey as an engineer and entrepreneur who built and sold several air pollution control companies over many decades. He talks about working closely with his longtime partner to grow small startups into successful businesses that served clients across North America. Bob explains how solving real problems for customers and building strong partnerships helped their companies grow and succeed. He also reflects on lessons from leadership, risk, and learning from missed opportunities along the way. Today, Bob continues to create new ideas as the Owner and Partner at The Ultimate Drink Coaster Co., LLC, while sharing his experience through inventions, writing, and conversations about business and problem-solving.

Key Takeaways:

• Bob’s journey building and selling multiple air pollution control companies.
• How he and his partner grew startups into successful North American businesses.
• Lessons on solving customer problems and offering full turnkey solutions.
• The value of strong partnerships and learning from setbacks.
• His work today is as Owner and Partner at The Ultimate Drink Coaster Co., LLC, creating new ideas and inventions.

Here are a few quotes from the episode:

• “I never found a drink coaster that worked, so I invented one.” - Bob Labbe
• “Never put your eggs in one basket.” - Bob Labbe
• “Think about the problem before giving your response.” - Bob Labbe

Join Bob Labbe, Owner and Partner at The Ultimate Drink Coaster Co., LLC, as he shares lessons from building and selling multiple air pollution control companies. He explains how solving real problems helped grow successful businesses.

Episode Highlights
[00:00] - Teaser
[02:02] - Host introduces Bob Labbe, serial entrepreneur & inventor
[02:32] - Why Bob invented "The Ultimate Drink Coaster" (ruined silk tie story)
[04:03] - From Georgia Tech engineer to first business (1972)
[06:43] - Starting a third company at 60 after retirement got boring
[09:05] - The secret to his 50+ year business partnership
[12:46] - Losing a $7M contract & the lesson learned
[16:38] - Taking the counter-risk: turnkey solutions vs. just equipment
[20:07] - Former employees recruited him to start the third company
[24:19] - The 2023 dinner party where a ruined tie sparked the coaster idea
[28:48] - Selling to an employee to preserve his legacy
[30:23] - Inventing "Putting by the Numbers" golf system
[34:33] - Mission: help 30 million golfers improve
[36:01] - Identity isn't your company; you're still a problem solver
[37:49] - Leadership lesson: cogitate before you respond
[41:48] - Shifting from running companies to being a spokesperson
[46:50] - New role: sounding board for daughter & son-in-law
[51:50] - Myth: entrepreneurs will make a lot of money
[54:47] - Where to find Bob's book & coaster

FOLLOW THE GUEST:

• Bob Labbe - LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/bob-labbe-59800a398/ 
• Company Website (The Ultimate Drink Coaster Co. LLC): https://ultimatecoasterco.com/  
• Company Facebook (The Ultimate Drink Coaster Co. LLC): https://www.facebook.com/ultimatecoasterco

FOLLOW THE HOST:

• LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/barrettyoung 
• Company LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/company/gwcpa/ 
• Website: https://gwcpas.com/ 
• Email: [email protected] 

FOLLOW THE PODCAST:

• Apple Podcast: https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/the-art-of-succession/id1742796896 
• YouTube: https://youtube.com/@artofsuccession 
• Spotify: https://open.spotify.com/show/7uhogBxFKWAAetAbD8TVQR  
• LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/company/art-of-succession-podcast/ 
• Website: https://gwcpas.com/podcast 

This GPT has already supported hundreds of multi-generational businesses through complex transitions, and I’ve translated that experience into a free Custom GPT available on our website. Explore it here: https://bit.ly/art-of-succession-our-GPT
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Want to be a guest on our podcast? Apply and share your expertise with our audience at https://www.podmatch.com/member/artofsuccession
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Welcome to The Art of Succession Podcast. Host Barrett Young, CPA, talks with Albert Butler, CPA, MBA, partner at a national CPA firm, about his journey through public accounting, industry leadership, and returning to the profession he first struggled to embrace. Albert shares how early lessons from his entrepreneurial parents shaped his approach to business, leadership, and mentorship. He reflects on building a career across Big Four firms, corporate roles, and eventually stepping into partnership while helping grow talent and serve clients. Today, Albert focuses on developing future leaders in accounting, sharing insights on entrepreneurship, legacy, and the mindset needed to build lasting success.

Albert shares his journey from an uncertain start in accounting to becoming a partner at a national CPA firm after more than two decades in the profession. He talks about early career challenges in public accounting, time spent in corporate leadership roles, and why he ultimately returned to the profession to help business owners solve real problems. Albert explains how lessons from his entrepreneurial family shaped his views on leadership, mentorship, and building strong teams. Today, he focuses on growing future leaders in accounting, helping clients make better decisions, and sharing insights about entrepreneurship, legacy, and long term success.

Key Takeaways:

• Albert’s journey from early struggles in accounting to becoming a partner at a national CPA firm.
• How experience in public accounting and corporate roles shaped his leadership approach.
• Lessons on helping business owners solve problems through accounting and advisory work.
• Insights on mentorship, developing talent, and building strong teams in the profession.
• His focus today is on leadership, legacy, and growing the next generation of CPAs.

Here are a few quotes from the episode:

• “Accounting is the heartbeat of business.” - Albert Butler CPA, MBA
• “One year in public accounting is five years in industry.” - Albert Butler CPA, MBA
• “I don’t give jobs. I grow careers and legacy.” - Albert Butler CPA, MBA

Join Albert Butler CPA, MBA, partner at a national CPA firm, as he shares lessons from his journey through public accounting, corporate leadership, and entrepreneurship. He explains how accounting helps business owners solve problems, make better decisions, and build lasting success.

Episode Highlights
[00:00] - Teaser
[02:08] - Host introduces Albert Butler, CPA, MBA & firm partner
[02:53] - Why Albert is excited to discuss succession & passing the torch
[04:06] - "Hell no": Albert never wanted to be a partner initially
[08:38] - The Intermediate Accounting textbook he keeps as a "trophy"
[11:49] - Failing the CPA exam after his truck broke down (1999)
[18:06] - Why he returned: helping "regular everyday people"
[20:22] - "One year in public = five years in industry."
[27:23] - Philosophy: "Accounting is the heartbeat of business"
[33:00] - The 6-month interview process before buying into partnership
[37:47] - Challenge of leading an Atlanta office for a multi-state firm
[40:55] - Biggest surprise: extreme difficulty finding senior staff
[45:56] - How Albert inspires staff: legacy over paycheck
[51:16] - The five muscles of enterprise (accounting is the heartbeat)
[59:32] - What he wants successors to remember: "lifting while I climb"
[01:01:30] - Finding creativity in AI & its functional potential

FOLLOW THE GUEST:

• Albert Butler CPA, MBA - LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/butleralbert/ 

Grab your copy of "Life: Truth, Love, Loss, Success, and Failure" and take a journey through Albert’s most personal lessons. Available now on Amazon! 👍https://www.amazon.com/LIFE-Success-Failure-Quotes-Advice-ebook/dp/B0FKGJD7LD 

FOLLOW THE HOST:

• LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/barrettyoung 
• Company LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/company/gwcpa/ 
• Website: https://gwcpas.com/ 
• Email: [email protected] 

FOLLOW THE PODCAST:

• Apple Podcast: https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/the-art-of-succession/id1742796896 
• YouTube: https://youtube.com/@artofsuccession 
• Spotify: https://open.spotify.com/show/7uhogBxFKWAAetAbD8TVQR  
• LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/company/art-of-succession-podcast/ 
• Website: https://gwcpas.com/podcast 

This GPT has already supported hundreds of multi-generational businesses through complex transitions, and I’ve translated that experience into a free Custom GPT available on our website. Explore it here: https://bit.ly/art-of-succession-our-GPT
------------------------------------------------

Want to be a guest on our podcast? Apply and share your expertise with our audience at https://www.podmatch.com/member/artofsuccession
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Welcome to The Art of Succession Podcast. Host Barrett Young, CPA, talks with Rebekah Olson, CPA, Chief Executive Officer of the Maryland Association of CPAs (MACPA), about her journey from public accounting into leading a long-standing professional organization. Rebekah shares how she discovered her passion for developing people, transitioned into association work, and eventually stepped into the CEO role after years of growth within the organization. She reflects on lessons in leadership, succession, and guiding a 125-year-old organization through change. Today, she focuses on building community, supporting the next generation of CPAs, and helping the profession adapt and thrive in a changing world.

Rebekah shares her journey from public accounting to leading a statewide CPA association after discovering her passion for developing people and supporting the profession. She talks about stepping away from firm work, finding her place within the association, and growing through roles focused on education, membership, and leadership. Rebekah explains how those experiences prepared her to become CEO and guide a long-standing organization through change. She shows how self-awareness, mentorship, and adaptability can shape a path to leadership. Her story highlights the value of community, intentional growth, and helping professionals succeed together.

Key Takeaways:

• Rebekah’s path from public accounting into leading a statewide CPA association.
• How she grew within the organization through roles in learning, membership, and development.
• Lessons from stepping into the leadership of a long-standing member-based organization.
• Why community, inclusion, and mentorship are critical for future leaders.
• She now focuses on connecting professionals and supporting the next generation of CPAs.

Here are a few quotes from the episode:

• “It’s not that I couldn’t do the work, I just approached it differently.” - Rebekah Olson, CPA
• “I feel like I was made for this role, but I did not know that until I was in it.” - Rebekah Olson, CPA
• “If we are creating relationships and connecting people, then we are succeeding.” - Rebekah Olson, CPA

Join Rebekah Olson, CPA, CEO of the Maryland Association of CPAs, as she shares lessons from stepping into the leadership of a long-standing professional organization. Hear how she grew from public accounting into association leadership, why she focuses on building strong community connections, and how her journey prepared her to guide a 125-year-old organization. Learn how Rebekah now supports CPAs, connects professionals, and helps shape the future of the profession.

Episode Highlights
[00:00] - Teaser
[02:23] - Host Barrett introduces guest Rebekah Olson, CPA
[02:58] - Stepping into a 120-year-old organization
[04:08] - Steering a cruise ship with a fixed North Star
[06:00] - From child entrepreneur to accounting major
[08:36] - Leadership assessment: "spirited vs. systematic."
[10:32] - Career coach suggests trade association work
[15:19] - Rising from membership manager to director
[19:12] - Host: Rebekah earned the CEO role, wasn't handed it
[22:24] - Career path like Lombard Street's switchbacks
[26:59] - What attracted her: the people and community
[29:50] - Two keys to enabling next-gen success
[37:52] - The lost middle generation is hard to engage
[44:57] - Hiring outsiders to challenge her thinking
[49:58] - Leading for the next 125 years, not her own tenure
[53:28] - Blocks Tuesday mornings for big-picture thinking
[56:39] - Visioning happens in community, not alone
[01:00:38] - Her superpower: connecting people to people
[01:03:01] - Lightning round starts
[01:05:45] - Where to find Rebekah and MACPA

Follow The Guest Rebekah Olson, CPA:

• LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/rebekahbolson/ 

Follow The Guest’s Company, Maryland Association of CPAs (MACPA):

• LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/company/maryland-association-of-cpas/ 
• Website: https://macpa.org/ 

FOLLOW THE HOST:

• LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/barrettyoung 
• Company LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/company/gwcpa/ 
• Website: https://gwcpas.com/ 
• Email: [email protected]

FOLLOW THE PODCAST:

• Apple Podcast: https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/the-art-of-succession/id1742796896 
• YouTube: https://youtube.com/@artofsuccession 
• Spotify: https://open.spotify.com/show/7uhogBxFKWAAetAbD8TVQR  
• LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/company/art-of-succession-podcast/ 
• Website: https://gwcpas.com/podcast 

This GPT has already supported hundreds of multi-generational businesses through complex transitions, and I’ve translated that experience into a free Custom GPT available on our website. Explore it here: https://bit.ly/art-of-succession-our-GPT
------------------------------------------------

Want to be a guest on our podcast? Apply and share your expertise with our audience at https://www.podmatch.com/member/artofsuccession
------------------------------------------------
Welcome to The Art of Succession Podcast. Host Barrett Young, CPA, talks with Jennifer Fizer, CEO and Fractional CFO at MKB CFO and Bookkeeping and Host of The Financial Operator Podcast, about her journey from working early jobs after the 2008 recession to becoming a business owner through acquisitions. Jennifer shares how she bought and turned around a struggling coffee shop, later sold it, and eventually acquired the fractional CFO firm she once worked with as a contractor. She reflects on lessons from buying and selling businesses, learning new industries quickly, and helping companies manage their finances with confidence. Today, she helps service and trade businesses improve cash flow, understand their numbers, and build stronger financial systems for long-term success.

Jennifer shares her journey from early career struggles after the 2008 recession to becoming a business owner through acquisitions. She talks about buying a struggling coffee shop with little money, learning how to turn it around, and later selling the business after several years of growth. Jennifer explains how those experiences helped her step into the world of fractional CFO services and eventually purchase the firm she worked with as a contractor. She shows how resilience, practical problem-solving, and learning new skills can shape a path to ownership. Her story highlights the value of persistence, adaptability, and helping business owners understand their finances with confidence.

Key Takeaways:

• Jennifer’s path from low-paying jobs after the 2008 recession to business ownership.
• How she bought, improved, and later sold a struggling coffee shop.
• Lessons from acquiring businesses without prior industry experience.
• Why profitable businesses and clear improvement plans matter in acquisitions.
• How she now helps owners manage cash flow and understand their numbers.

Here are a few quotes from the episode:

• “I can figure it out. I no longer believe I need money or expertise to buy a business.” - Jennifer Fizer
• “Deals are not always deals. You will either pay with time or you will pay with money.” - Jennifer Fizer
• “If you cannot see ways to improve a business in the first 90 days, you may not be the right person to run it.” - Jennifer Fizer

Join Jennifer Fizer, CEO and Fractional CFO at MKB CFO and Bookkeeping, as she shares lessons from buying, running, and selling small businesses. Hear how she turned around a struggling coffee shop, why she believes entrepreneurs can learn any industry, and how her path led her to acquire a fractional CFO firm. Learn how Jennifer now helps business owners understand their finances, improve cash flow, and build stronger businesses.

Episode Highlights
[00:00:00] - Teaser
[00:02:04] - Host introduces guest Jennifer Fizer
[00:02:36] - How Dave Ramsey sparked Jennifer's entrepreneurship
[00:05:00] - From tree trimmer to accounting degree
[00:08:00] - Learning tough lessons as a farm CFO
[00:09:57] - Buying first business (coffee shop) for "basically free."
[00:12:13] - Navigating personal loss while running a business
[00:15:43] - Why "deals" aren't always deals
[00:18:35] - Quick wins that turned the coffee shop around
[00:21:02] - Working at a fractional CFO firm & learning the model
[00:23:32] - Selling the coffee shop after a viral Facebook post
[00:25:57] - Seller side lessons & the value of an appraisal
[00:33:00] - Getting the unexpected offer to buy MKB
[00:36:00] - Why Mills sold & why Jennifer said yes immediately
[00:39:51] - Transitioning clients, name, & staff
[00:43:12] - The emotional rollercoaster of ownership
[00:47:30] - Growth plans & using past experience
[00:50:42] - How past struggles make her a better CFO
[00:52:13] - Advice: "Just pick something and go do it"
[00:55:10] - Lightning round begins
[01:02:34] - Where to find Jennifer & MKB

Follow The Guest Jennifer Fizer:

• LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/jennifer-fizer-73354631/ 

Follow The Guest’s Company MKB CFO & Bookkeeping:

• LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/company/mkbcfo/ 
• Website: https://mkbcfo.com 
• Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/mkb_cfo/ 
• Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/mkbcfo 
• YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@mkbcfo 

Follow Guest’s The Financial Operator Podcast:

• Spotify: https://open.spotify.com/show/3qqGaz3u4RnPjUGsaXHfNZ?si=208ceef8efa54509 
• Apple Podcast: https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/the-financial-operator/id1578877075 

FOLLOW THE HOST:

• LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/barrettyoung 
• Company LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/company/gwcpa/ 
• Website: https://gwcpas.com/ 
• Email: [email protected] 

FOLLOW THE PODCAST:

• Apple Podcast: https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/the-art-of-succession/id1742796896 
• YouTube: https://youtube.com/@artofsuccession 
• Spotify: https://open.spotify.com/show/7uhogBxFKWAAetAbD8TVQR  
• LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/company/art-of-succession-podcast/ 
• Website: https://gwcpas.com/podcast