The Finance Leader Podcast

As the NFL Draft ignites conversations about talent acquisition, we turn the spotlight on the universal principles of selecting and nurturing the right people for your finance squad. In this bonus episode, I explore the critical importance of soft skills, such as emotional intelligence and communication, and their role in creating a harmonious and effective team environment. I'll share why these innate qualities often outweigh technical prowess, and how you can foster a culture that values growth, coachability, and adding value at every turn. Prepare to challenge your perceptions of team development and leadership as we discuss the nuanced art of recruitment. I emphasize that being a finance leader means also being a mentor, willing to invest in your team's continuous improvement. Reflecting on Mark Cuban's wisdom, I argue that there are no shortcuts to excellence, but rather a committed journey of cultivating talent. By the end of our conversation, you'll be equipped with actionable insights to help you seek out and develop individuals who don't just fill a role but elevate your entire organization. Join us for a compelling narrative that will transform how you think about and approach hiring within your finance team. ==>> Episode 45: Recruiting and Hiring Team Members Episode outline: Please connect with me on: 1. Instagram: stephen.mclain 2. Twitter: smclainiii 3. Facebook: stephenmclainconsultant 4. LinkedIn: stephenjmclainiii For more resources, please visit Finance Leader Academy: financeleaderacademy.com. Become a Finance Leader GuideAdvance Your Finance and Accounting Career: Developing a Promotion Strategy that Sets You Apart

Please download the Goal Setting Workbook that follows this episode: here Imagine seizing opportunities as they arise, armed with a growth mindset that turns challenges into stepping stones for success. That's what we're unpacking today—how to nurture the mindset and habits that will steer us toward our most ambitious goals for the year. We'll revisit the SMART method, aligning our career and personal aspirations, even as life’s curveballs come our way. By maintaining focus and staying accountable, we're setting the stage for a year of unparalleled achievements. So, subscribe, share, and join our brigade of excellence; together, we're not just planning goals—we're setting the foundations for a legacy of leadership in finance. Episode outline: Please connect with me on: 1. Instagram: stephen.mclain 2. Twitter: smclainiii 3. Facebook: stephenmclainconsultant 4. LinkedIn: stephenjmclainiii For more resources, please visit Finance Leader Academy: financeleaderacademy.com. Become a Finance Leader GuideAdvance Your Finance and Accounting Career: Developing a Promotion Strategy that Sets You Apart

In this episode, we're examining the transformative power of intense accountability in the realm of finance and accounting careers. We'll delve into how owning your mindset, setting clear goals, and establishing a chain of accountability can catapult you out of your comfort zone and propel you towards success. We'll explore the fine line between making excuses and owning up to failures, and how the right mindset can encourage us to take more risks, essential for a thriving career. We'll also touch upon the concept of professional conduct and the role of accountability within our professional fields. Whether you are starting out or are a seasoned professional, this episode is brimming with unique insights and fresh perspectives designed to empower you to take charge of your career and your life. Step into the realm of intense accountability and let it shape your journey to success. Episode outline: Please connect with me on: 1. Instagram: stephen.mclain 2. Twitter: smclainiii 3. Facebook: stephenmclainconsultant 4. LinkedIn: stephenjmclainiii For more resources, please visit Finance Leader Academy: financeleaderacademy.com. Become a Finance Leader GuideAdvance Your Finance and Accounting Career: Developing a Promotion Strategy that Sets You Apart

Embark on a journey through the treacherous terrain of strategic messaging as we dissect the recent communication blunders of Kellogg's and Wendy's. It's a perilous world out there for finance and accounting leaders tasked with navigating their company's external narratives – one wrong word could spell disaster for your brand's reputation. In this episode, we delve into why empathy and understanding the economic pulse of your audience is not just important, but critical for those speaking on behalf of their company. Discover key concepts and actionable guidance to bulletproof your public communication strategies, ensuring your messaging hits the mark every time. Join me as we explore the nuances of crafting messages that resonate with consumers and safeguard your personal and corporate brand integrity. We'll unravel the dire consequences of disconnect and arrogance in communications, providing lessons that finance leaders can't afford to ignore. Learn how to wield the power of consistency, align company values with consumer needs, and genuinely connect with your audience—all while avoiding the snares of misplaced humor or off-the-cuff remarks. Tune in to fortify your leadership toolkit and ensure that when you speak, your audience doesn't just listen—they trust and believe in what you have to say. Please connect with me on: 1. Instagram: stephen.mclain 2. Twitter: smclainiii 3. Facebook: stephenmclainconsultant 4. LinkedIn: stephenjmclainiii For more resources, please visit Finance Leader Academy: financeleaderacademy.com. Become a Finance Leader GuideAdvance Your Finance and Accounting Career: Developing a Promotion Strategy that Sets You Apart

Ready to transform a group of individuals into a powerhouse team? Joins us as we share invaluable strategies that will elevate your team's performance to unprecedented heights. By harnessing the synergy of trust, communication, and fair play, we illustrate how leaders can foster an environment ripe for growth, innovation, and collective achievement. This episode is a treasure trove of actionable advice, revealing the secrets to creating a cohesive and dynamic team. We bridge the gap between individual potential and collaborative success with Stephen's guidance, leaving behind the perils of micromanagement and favoritism. Your journey to leadership excellence begins here, and the path is illuminated with the wisdom of a true connoisseur of team-building. Tune in to experience a masterclass in cultivating a work culture where everyone thrives and the sum truly is greater than its parts. Please connect with me on: 1. Instagram: stephen.mclain 2. Twitter: smclainiii 3. Facebook: stephenmclainconsultant 4. LinkedIn: stephenjmclainiii For more resources, please visit Finance Leader Academy: financeleaderacademy.com. hereBecome a Finance Leader GuideAdvance Your Finance and Accounting Career: Developing a Promotion Strategy that Sets You Apart

Ever wondered how leadership transcends mere management to truly inspire greatness? Join me as I reveal the transformative principles that can elevate not just your team's performance, but your very approach to leadership. Drawing from my own experiences in the Army, this episode promises to arm you with a mindset that not only lights a fire in others but also sparks the development of future leaders within your team. Last week, we gleaned incredible wisdom from Wassia Kaman, and now we're harnessing that momentum to challenge the status quo. Discover the strategies that combat complacency, underscore the importance of active listening, and emphasize clear communication. Together, we will navigate the essentials of creating a culture that champions growth, collaboration, and a strategic response to challenges. Be prepared to leave this session with the ability to inspire a legacy of leadership that echoes through the echelons of your organization. Please connect with me on: 1. Instagram: stephen.mclain 2. Twitter: smclainiii 3. Facebook: stephenmclainconsultant 4. LinkedIn: stephenjmclainiii For more resources, please visit Finance Leader Academy: financeleaderacademy.com. hereBecome a Finance Leader GuideAdvance Your Finance and Accounting Career: Developing a Promotion Strategy that Sets You Apart

In the episode, Wassia talks about her work with H.O.P.E - Helping Other People be Empowered: you can find the link here. This is an amazing organization doing work that matters and changing lives for the better. Embark on a transformative journey through the dynamic world of finance with Wassia Kamon, Vice President of Finance and Corporate Controller from the Low Income Investment Fund, as she unpacks the essence of value beyond the numbers. Wassia telling her story coming from the Ivory Coast to become a senior finance leader is so inspirational. She not only underscores the significance of soft skills but also the power of a professional narrative in career progression. This episode is a treasure trove for middle managers looking to show their value so they can rise in their organizations, offering insights on how to strategically navigate the intricate path to senior positions. Please connect with me on: 1. Instagram: stephen.mclain 2. Twitter: smclainiii 3. Facebook: stephenmclainconsultant 4. LinkedIn: stephenjmclainiii For more resources, please visit Finance Leader Academy: financeleaderacademy.com.

Please download the free business strategy guide here. Unlock the secrets to savvy strategic decision-making as we navigate the complex relationship between business strategy and the accounting and finance systems that support it. Perfect for small business owners looking to tighten their operations, this episode promises a deep understanding of how to leverage monthly financial statements and daily financial insights. We unravel the subtleties of resource allocation and explore the creation of meaningful KPIs that resonate with your unique business goals. Episode outline: Please connect with me on: 1. Instagram: stephen.mclain 2. Twitter: smclainiii 3. Facebook: stephenmclainconsultant 4. LinkedIn: stephenjmclainiii For more resources, please visit Finance Leader Academy: financeleaderacademy.com. hereBecome a Finance Leader GuideAdvance Your Finance and Accounting Career: Developing a Promotion Strategy that Sets You Apart

Discover the leadership secrets that can transform your team from functioning to phenomenal as I'm joined by retired Lieutenant Colonel Mark McMillian. With a storied 22-year military career and a passion for coaching as the founder of McMillion Leadership Associates, Mark offers a wealth of knowledge on the importance of clear communication and defined expectations. Our conversation is a treasure trove for anyone looking to inspire and guide teams to greatness, especially in high-pressure environments. Navigating the rough seas of conflict with emotional intelligence—this is what separates good leaders from great ones. We unravel the complexities of managing stress and interpersonal dynamics in today's high-stress climate. Drawing from personal experiences, including stories from frontline employees like Mark's daughter during the pandemic, we spotlight the need for self-awareness and understanding of others' emotions. Whether you're leading a public-facing team or an internal corporate group, the insights shared here will equip you with the skills to create a more harmonious and effective work environment. Join us as we explore the power of emotional intelligence in leadership, an essential tool for anyone striving to excel in their role and foster a thriving team culture. To connect with Mark McMillion, please visit McMillion Leadership Associates: mcmillionleadership.com Please connect with me on: 1. Instagram: stephen.mclain 2. Twitter: smclainiii 3. Facebook: stephenmclainconsultant 4. LinkedIn: stephenjmclainiii For more resources, please visit Finance Leader Academy: financeleaderacademy.com. you can find it hereBecome a Finance Leader Guide

We are discussing staying focused, so we accomplish our goals, we complete our task with excellence, and we lead our teams with purpose. What we let distract us will own our energy and our time. Our habits and routines must be strong to overcome any distraction that can lure us away from accomplishment and top results. I want you to create a vision of success for yourself to stay focused on what you want to achieve. We will overcome any distraction and obstacle that gets in our way. That will be our pledge to ourselves. Episode outline: Please connect with me on: 1. Instagram: stephen.mclain 2. Twitter: smclainiii 3. Facebook: stephenmclainconsultant 4. LinkedIn: stephenjmclainiii For more resources, please visit Finance Leader Academy: financeleaderacademy.com. hereBecome a Finance Leader GuideAdvance Your Finance and Accounting Career: Developing a Promotion Strategy that Sets You Apart

Please download the Goal Setting Workbook that follows this episode: here Episode #115: Imagine seizing opportunities as they arise, armed with a growth mindset that turns challenges into stepping stones for success. That's what we're unpacking today—how to nurture the mindset and habits that will steer us toward our most ambitious goals for the year. We'll revisit the SMART method, aligning our career and personal aspirations, even as life’s curveballs come our way. By maintaining focus and staying accountable, we're setting the stage for a year of unparalleled achievements. So, subscribe, share, and join our brigade of excellence; together, we're not just planning goals—we're setting the foundations for a legacy of leadership in finance. Episode outline: Please connect with me on: 1. Instagram: stephen.mclain 2. Twitter: smclainiii 3. Facebook: stephenmclainconsultant 4. LinkedIn: stephenjmclainiii For more resources, please visit Finance Leader Academy: financeleaderacademy.com. Become a Finance Leader GuideAdvance Your Finance and Accounting Career: Developing a Promotion Strategy that Sets You Apart

Please download the free workbook that goes with this episode. This episode will empower you with the insights to pinpoint your ideal customer, refine your services, and secure your competitive edge. We'll navigate through a SWOT analysis and discuss the significance of core values before crafting a strategic statement that's as robust as your ambition. Whether you're a seasoned business owner or just starting, you'll leave with a clearer direction and the tools to make informed decisions that will pave the way for prosperity in 2024. Let's make those goals a reality, shall we? Please connect with me on: 1. Instagram: stephen.mclain 2. Twitter: smclainiii 3. Facebook: stephenmclainconsultant 4. LinkedIn: stephenjmclainiii For more resources, please visit Finance Leader Academy: financeleaderacademy.com. On the website, you can download the Small Business Strategy Guide and Workbook. You can use this guide to evaluate your Small Business Strategy and how your accounting & finance systems can help you make better decisions.

Do you remember why you chose a career in finance and accounting? Rekindle your passion as we revisit Episode 98 and deeply contemplate the reasons that drew us towards this exciting field. This episode is a rallying cry for all finance leaders, urging you to reconnect with the joy of number-crunching, the thrill of forging strategy, and the ambition of leadership. Remember, a true finance leader isn't just technically proficient, they use this mastery to uplift others and guide their organization towards success, using data as the compass. Please connect with me on: 1. Instagram: stephen.mclain 2. Twitter: smclainiii 3. Facebook: stephenmclainconsultant 4. LinkedIn: stephenjmclainiii For more resources, please visit Finance Leader Academy: financeleaderacademy.com. Become a Finance Leader GuideAdvance Your Finance and Accounting Career: Developing a Promotion Strategy that Sets You Apart

Pause for a moment. What if you could go beyond mere technical skills and grow into an inspiring leader, radiating strength of character and integrity? That's what we're exploring in this special bonus episode of the Finance Leader Podcast. As we wrap up the year, we invite you to celebrate not just your professional success, but also the personal milestones that make life truly meaningful. Please connect with me on: 1. Instagram: stephen.mclain 2. Twitter: smclainiii 3. Facebook: stephenmclainconsultant 4. LinkedIn: stephenjmclainiii For more resources, please visit Finance Leader Academy: financeleaderacademy.com. Become a Finance Leader GuideAdvance Your Finance and Accounting Career: Developing a Promotion Strategy that Sets You Apart

Imagine unlocking the full potential of your finance team with the right leadership and engagement tools. We kick things off by venturing into the realm of leadership, exploring its intricate responsibilities, and stressing the significance of setting the vision, maintaining high standards, and becoming a role model for your team. As we move forward, we dive deeper into the nuances of team engagement, demonstrating how your actions can mold your team's success trajectory. We'll replay episode 107, offering handy team member engagement tools that you can readily apply within your team. The goal is to create an environment where team members are positively engaged, productive, efficient, and motivated, leading to high-quality output. Don’t forget to check out the Finance Leader Academy for free additional resources. Episode outline: Please connect with me on: 1. Instagram: stephen.mclain 2. Twitter: smclainiii 3. Facebook: stephenmclainconsultant 4. LinkedIn: stephenjmclainiii For more resources, please visit Finance Leader Academy: financeleaderacademy.com. Become a Finance Leader GuideAdvance Your Finance and Accounting Career: Developing a Promotion Strategy that Sets You Apart

Financial Planning & Analysis provides one of the most critical and powerful functions in the business. Are you resourcing and employing your FP&A Team properly? You need to be continually planning the team’s functions and capabilities as technology changes and the business grows. The FP&A function cannot remain static. It must be growing and changing as conditions change. Your pathway to understanding the key metrics of the business AND if you are achieving your strategy, lies in the commitment to investing in your Financial Planning and Analysis team. Episode outline: Please connect with me on: 1. Instagram: stephen.mclain 2. Twitter: smclainiii 3. Facebook: stephenmclainconsultant 4. LinkedIn: stephenjmclainiii For more resources, please visit Finance Leader Academy: financeleaderacademy.com. Become a Finance Leader GuideAdvance Your Finance and Accounting Career: Developing a Promotion Strategy that Sets You Apart

Episode 114: Does your organization have the ability to overcome a crisis or overcome rapidly changing business and economic conditions? Is decision making lagging due to financial systems that cannot adapt or because of legacy processes that don’t support change? Being agile means, you can quickly assess and adapt to rapidly changing conditions. Sometimes this lies in processes, but often it can be with leaders who are not able to see change indicators which also means that you may not be measuring for changing conditions. Episode outline: Please connect with me on: 1. Instagram: stephen.mclain 2. Twitter: smclainiii 3. Facebook: stephenmclainconsultant 4. LinkedIn: stephenjmclainiii For more resources, please visit Finance Leader Academy: financeleaderacademy.com. Become a Finance Leader GuideAdvance Your Finance and Accounting Career: Developing a Promotion Strategy that Sets You Apart

I dedicate this special episode of the Finance Leader Podcast to share my journey of gratitude. Walk with me as I delve into the profound gratitude I have for my inner circle, the joy of serving others through this podcast, and the path of self-improvement I am navigating each day. Happy Thanksgiving!!! Please connect with me on: 1. Instagram: stephen.mclain 2. Twitter: smclainiii 3. Facebook: stephenmclainconsultant 4. LinkedIn: stephenjmclainiii For more resources, please visit Finance Leader Academy: financeleaderacademy.com. Become a Finance Leader GuideAdvance Your Finance and Accounting Career: Developing a Promotion Strategy that Sets You Apart

In this episode, we're examining the transformative power of intense accountability in the realm of finance and accounting careers. We'll delve into how owning your mindset, setting clear goals, and establishing a chain of accountability can catapult you out of your comfort zone and propel you towards success. We'll explore the fine line between making excuses and owning up to failures, and how the right mindset can encourage us to take more risks, essential for a thriving career. We'll also touch upon the concept of professional conduct and the role of accountability within our professional fields. Whether you are starting out or are a seasoned professional, this episode is brimming with unique insights and fresh perspectives designed to empower you to take charge of your career and your life. Step into the realm of intense accountability and let it shape your journey to success. Episode outline: Please connect with me on: 1. Instagram: stephen.mclain 2. Twitter: smclainiii 3. Facebook: stephenmclainconsultant 4. LinkedIn: stephenjmclainiii For more resources, please visit Finance Leader Academy: financeleaderacademy.com. Become a Finance Leader GuideAdvance Your Finance and Accounting Career: Developing a Promotion Strategy that Sets You Apart

Are you ready to end the year on a high note and kick off the next one with renewed vigor and clarity? Join me in this bonus episode of The Finance Leader Podcast as we delve into key activities to focus on as the year draws to a close: from prepping for year-end close and getting the 2024 budget approved, to planning for your Continuing Professional Education (CPE) and setting goals for the upcoming year. But it's not all work, work, work. A crucial part of maintaining a healthy work-life balance is taking time off for self-care and relaxation. We'll be discussing the importance of scheduling some well-deserved downtime and how it can positively impact your productivity and overall wellbeing. Whether you're a finance professional seeking guidance on end-of-year activities or just someone seeking to improve their leadership skills, this episode offers something for everyone. So tune in and let's make the most of what we've got left of the year together! Please connect with me on: 1. Instagram: stephen.mclain 2. Twitter: smclainiii 3. Facebook: stephenmclainconsultant 4. LinkedIn: stephenjmclainiii For more resources, please visit Finance Leader Academy: financeleaderacademy.com. Become a Finance Leader GuideAdvance Your Finance and Accounting Career: Developing a Promotion Strategy that Sets You Apart