The Finance Leader Podcast: Recent Episodes

View Details

Send us Fan Mail

Bonus episode # 98: Revenue can be up and your stress can still be up right along with it. If your business is selling more but cash feels tight, your credit card is creeping higher, and you cannot explain where the money went, we are looking at the wrong scoreboard.

We walk through the difference between revenue, gross profit, and net profit in plain language, then use a simple real-world example to show how “great sales” can turn into surprisingly small profit once direct costs and overhead hit. From underpricing and discounting to growth-driven expenses like contractors, software, ads, inventory, and equipment, we lay out the most common reasons sales volume can hide weak margins. We also call out the hidden costs that quietly erase your wins, including revisions, admin time, payment processing fees, travel, rework, and unpaid consultations.

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.

Support the show

Stephen is an experienced Finance Professional and Leader who offers fractional CFO services and development opportunities. Please visit his LinkedIn profile or Finance Leader Academy for more information.

The views and information shared on The Finance Leader Podcast are intended solely for educational and informational purposes. They do not constitute financial, accounting, tax, legal, investment, or other professional advice. Always seek guidance from a qualified professional before making decisions related to your specific circumstances.

View Details

Send us Fan Mail

Episode # 157: We walk through how we build an FP&A training plan that develops individual talent while raising the effectiveness of the whole finance organization. That starts with a formal development strategy, not ad hoc learning squeezed in when time allows. We talk about the capabilities that separate high-performing FP&A teams from strong reporting teams: business acumen, critical thinking, stakeholder management, leadership, decision support, and financial storytelling that makes recommendations clear and usable.

We also get practical about how to turn analysts into trusted strategic business partners. That means immersing FP&A in the functions they support, teaching curiosity and root-cause thinking, and creating real exposure to strategic planning, capital decisions, pricing, product discussions, and post-implementation reviews. Along the way, we address how to build a culture of continuous improvement through peer learning and safe experimentation with automation and AI in FP&A, plus how to measure training success by impact, not courses completed.

Episode outline:

1. Why FP&A needs a formal development plan,
2. Our goal is to develop strategic business partners,
3. Creating a culture of continuous improvement,
4. Measuring training success.

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.

Support the show

Stephen is an experienced Finance Professional and Leader who offers fractional CFO services and development opportunities. Please visit his LinkedIn profile or Finance Leader Academy for more information.

The views and information shared on The Finance Leader Podcast are intended solely for educational and informational purposes. They do not constitute financial, accounting, tax, legal, investment, or other professional advice. Always seek guidance from a qualified professional before making decisions related to your specific circumstances.

View Details

Send us Fan Mail

Episode # 156: Most SWOT analyses fail for one simple reason: they end as a four-quadrant chart instead of becoming a set of decisions. I’m breaking down how to run a strategic SWOT assessment that actually changes what you do next so you can outperform competitors over the next three to five years, not just document what you already know.

We walk through what SWOT analysis is really for in modern strategic planning: clarifying your competitive position, surfacing vulnerabilities early, spotting emerging market trends, and choosing investment priorities when capital, time, and leadership attention are limited. I also explain why SWOT can’t be a solo assignment. It needs executive sponsorship and real input across the business, from sales and marketing to operations, IT, HR, legal, accounting, and finance, so you get an honest view of strengths, weaknesses, opportunities, and threats.

From a finance leader perspective, I share how CFOs and FP&A teams can anchor the process in data instead of opinion, using profitability analysis, cash flow trends, ROIC, retention, productivity, and operating metrics to test assumptions. We dig into scenario planning and sensitivity analysis to model uncertainty, then cover how to convert SWOT themes into a strategy plan with clear owners, resources, milestones, KPIs, and business outcomes. Finally, we talk about where AI can accelerate research, competitor benchmarking, and trend detection without replacing executive judgment.

Episode outline:

1. Why Every Organization Needs a Strategic SWOT assessment,
2. Building the Right SWOT Analysis Team and Value-added Process,
3. Converting your SWOT assessment Into a Strategy plan.

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.

Support the show

Stephen is an experienced Finance Professional and Leader who offers fractional CFO services and development opportunities. Please visit his LinkedIn profile or Finance Leader Academy for more information.

The views and information shared on The Finance Leader Podcast are intended solely for educational and informational purposes. They do not constitute financial, accounting, tax, legal, investment, or other professional advice. Always seek guidance from a qualified professional before making decisions related to your specific circumstances.

View Details

Send us Fan Mail

Episode # 155: AI can feel like it’s coming for your job while you’re still trying to close the month. If you’ve felt overwhelmed by artificial intelligence, unsure which tools matter, or worried you’re falling behind, we’re going to slow it down and make it practical, especially for finance leaders, FP&A, accounting, and anyone responsible for decisions, controls, and credibility.

We start with the real reason AI creates anxiety: finance professionals build careers by becoming experts, but AI changes too fast to “master” in the old way. I explain why information overload fuels fear, what AI can do well today, and where human judgment remains essential for critical decisions and strategic leadership. We also talk about responsible AI use, including following organizational policies so you don’t accidentally expose sensitive company information.

Then we shift the mindset that unlocks confidence: don’t start with AI, start with the business problem. I share the questions I want every finance team asking, from repetitive work that wastes time to reports nobody reads to decisions that need better insight. From there, I walk through a simple confidence-building progression: awareness, personal productivity, financial analysis, and finally using AI to elevate your role as a true strategic partner, not just someone who automates reporting.

Episode outline:

1. Why AI creates so much anxiety,
2. Shift your mindset from technology to business problems, and
3. Build your confidence in using Artificial Intelligence effectively.

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.

Support the show

Stephen is an experienced Finance Professional and Leader who offers fractional CFO services and development opportunities. Please visit his LinkedIn profile or Finance Leader Academy for more information.

The views and information shared on The Finance Leader Podcast are intended solely for educational and informational purposes. They do not constitute financial, accounting, tax, legal, investment, or other professional advice. Always seek guidance from a qualified professional before making decisions related to your specific circumstances.

View Details

Send us Fan Mail

Episode # 154: Most FP&A teams aren’t short on effort they’re short on time to think. When the calendar is dominated by budgets, monthly reporting, variance explanations, and forecast refreshes, finance can end up reacting to problems after they’ve already hit results. That’s risky in a world of rapid market shifts, customer behavior changes, supply chain disruption, and nonstop technology transformation.

We walk through how agile strategy applies to financial planning and analysis without throwing out long-term goals. The difference is execution: shorter planning cycles, frequent reassessment, rolling forecasts, and continuous scenario analysis that keep assumptions current. I explain why traditional FP&A models become reactive, especially when finance is separated from sales, marketing, operations, HR, and supply chain and only sees emerging issues once they appear in the financial statements.

Episode outline:

1. What is Agile Strategy?
2. Why traditional FP&A can become reactive, and
3. Let’s examine some key agile principles.

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.

Support the show

Stephen is an experienced Finance Professional and Leader who offers fractional CFO services and development opportunities. Please visit his LinkedIn profile or Finance Leader Academy for more information.

The views and information shared on The Finance Leader Podcast are intended solely for educational and informational purposes. They do not constitute financial, accounting, tax, legal, investment, or other professional advice. Always seek guidance from a qualified professional before making decisions related to your specific circumstances.

View Details

Send us Fan Mail

Episode # 153: Strategy rarely changes because of a perfect variance report. It changes when someone connects the numbers to what customers feel, what operations can deliver, and which levers will protect margin and growth. We dig into how FP&A analysts and staff accountants can stop just reporting results and start shaping what happens next by diagnosing drivers, partnering across functions, and communicating like executives.

We start with a mindset reset: reporting performance is not the same as shaping performance. You will hear practical ways to move from scorekeeper to strategist, including turning variance reports into conversations, using price‑volume‑mix to explain revenue shifts, and running simple scenario and sensitivity analyses

If you are ready to think and operate at a higher level, start building the CFO mindset now: keep technical excellence, expand business acumen, and practice clear, decisive storytelling that earns influence.

Episode outline:

1. Shift from scorekeeper to strategist,
2. Build credibility by understanding the business beyond finance, and
3. Communicate like an executive so your analysis actually drives action.

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.

Support the show

Stephen is an experienced Finance Professional and Leader who offers fractional CFO services and development opportunities. Please visit his LinkedIn profile or Finance Leader Academy for more information.

The views and information shared on The Finance Leader Podcast are intended solely for educational and informational purposes. They do not constitute financial, accounting, tax, legal, investment, or other professional advice. Always seek guidance from a qualified professional before making decisions related to your specific circumstances.

View Details

Send us Fan Mail

Episode # 152: We show how finance becomes a real partner to operations by translating numbers into drivers, embedding FP&A in decisions before they are made, and aligning metrics and incentives to strategy. The result is faster execution, fewer surprises, and teams that own outcomes.

• translating financials into operational drivers
• replacing data dumps with clear operational stories
• partnering early to frame trade‑offs and scenarios
• aligning metrics, goals, and incentives to strategy
• shifting from metric protection to outcome ownership
• strengthening accountability while deepening trust
• practical questions to assess team impact
• getting out of the stovepipe to join project teams

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.

Support the show

Stephen is an experienced Finance Professional and Leader who offers fractional CFO services and development opportunities. Please visit his LinkedIn profile or Finance Leader Academy for more information.

The views and information shared on The Finance Leader Podcast are intended solely for educational and informational purposes. They do not constitute financial, accounting, tax, legal, investment, or other professional advice. Always seek guidance from a qualified professional before making decisions related to your specific circumstances.

View Details

Send us Fan Mail

Episode # 151: Start the year with leadership that actually moves the needle. We walk through the strategic actions that make teams faster, clearer, and more resilient—without adding noise.

We begin with the culture you model when pressure hits, because people copy what you do, not what you say. Calm, integrity, and active listening create psychological safety and higher standards at the same time. From there, we narrow in on priorities: how to publish a short, ranked list, tie it to forecasts and analysis, and adjust in real time so finance and accounting stop guessing. You’ll hear practical ways to align tasks to business objectives using specified, implied, and essential work—an approach that reduces miscommunication and keeps execution honest.

Governance becomes your engine for speed. We outline how to set clear escalation thresholds, run effective risk and operating reviews, and reward early warnings over last‑minute heroics. Then we tackle direct engagement and decision timeliness: structured operating rhythms, skip‑level listening, and defined decision rights that accelerate choices without micromanaging. The throughline is clarity—who decides, what matters now, and why trade‑offs are worth it—so people can move with confidence.

By the end, you’ll have a checklist for today: model one cultural behavior, publish your priorities, and set a simple escalation path. Whether you lead FP&A, accounting, or the broader enterprise, these moves build trust and momentum that last beyond January.

Episode outline:

1. Set a positive team culture,
2. Establish clear priorities, transparency, and accountability,
3. Encourage risk issue escalation with good governance, and
4. Lead with more direct engagement and better decision timeliness.

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.

Support the show

Stephen is an experienced Finance Professional and Leader who offers fractional CFO services and development opportunities. Please visit his LinkedIn profile or Finance Leader Academy for more information.

The views and information shared on The Finance Leader Podcast are intended solely for educational and informational purposes. They do not constitute financial, accounting, tax, legal, investment, or other professional advice. Always seek guidance from a qualified professional before making decisions related to your specific circumstances.

View Details

Send us a text

Episode # 150: Leadership in finance isn’t a title—it’s a practice. We dive into what turns any role in accounting, FP&A, or audit into a force for strategic impact, starting with the four pillars that anchor meaningful change: influence, grow your people, deliver results, and see the future. Along the way, we unpack how to turn data into decisions, build trust with senior leaders, and convert operational friction—like a chaotic month end—into a reliable, learning-driven process.

We start by reframing influence as earned alignment. You’ll hear how to show up with validated numbers, a sharp point of view, and a concise ask that respects executive time. Then we get practical about developing talent: mentoring for strategic thinking, cross-training on the business model, and running blameless reviews that raise the team’s ceiling. Execution takes center stage with tactics to speed the close, improve forecast accuracy, and translate variances into action. Finally, we step into forward-looking leadership—tracking external signals that matter, setting crisp scenarios, and aligning decisions to both profitability and purpose.

If you’re ready to elevate your impact, this conversation will help you become the partner your organization needs: people-centered, data-driven, and ethically grounded.

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.

Support the show

View Details

Send us a text

Episode #149: Month-end doesn’t have to feel like a rolling emergency. We walk through a proven, blame-free framework—the U.S. Army’s After Action Review—to turn your close into a reliable, data-driven process that gets faster and more accurate every cycle. If your calendar is packed and bottlenecks keep returning, this is the practical reset your team needs.

We start by reframing performance reviews as a leadership habit that compounds. Then we break down the AAR into three simple stages: plan, prepare, execute. You’ll learn how to define clear success metrics for close, set roles and handoffs, and create a safe environment where facts matter more than opinions. We show how to gather evidence during the cycle—timelines, task logs, error heat maps—so the review pinpoints root causes and turns observations into action.

From there, we dive into the backbone of a modern close: standardized processes, integrated systems, and tools that truly enable collaboration. Expect concrete ideas for automating data flow, reducing manual entries, and mapping end-to-end dependencies. We share ways to align accounting and FP&A early, cut late reclasses, and measure progress with a focused KPI set: close duration, on-time tasks, aged reconciliations, and post-close entries.

Episode outline:

1. The U.S. Army’s After-Action Review process,
2. Let’s always focus on processes, systems, and tools, and
3. Using the After-Action Review system to evaluate our month-end close procedures.

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.

Support the show

View Details

Send us a text

Episode #148: Comfort feels safe, but it quietly taxes our careers and our teams. We take on complacency head-on and show how alignment, clear standards, and better conversations can turn routine finance work into strategic results. From setting the pace as a leader to running meetings that actually remove blockers, we break down the simple habits that keep momentum high without slipping into micromanagement.

Walks through a practical framework: define success beyond compliance, link daily tasks to strategy, and give context that turns reports into decisions. We explore how leaders model urgency and integrity, why teams mirror the behaviors they see, and how recognition and coaching build trust that fuels ownership.

Celebrate the win, take real rest, then redirect energy to the next priority. Excellence is not a sprint; it is consistent, aligned action. If you’re aiming for bigger roles or simply a stronger function, use these tactics to build a culture of accountability, sharpen decisions, and protect focus.

Episode outline:

1. Leaders set the pace of the organization,
2. Complacency is the opposite of alignment,
3. What can we do to ensure that we create a culture of excellence.

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.

Support the show

View Details

Send us a text

Episode #147: Too many finance teams are stuck formatting data while the decisions fly by. We tackle a smarter way to work: build capacity by aligning effort to strategy, automating the grind, and developing the skills that turn reports into results. Stephen McLean walks through a practical approach for FP&A and accounting leaders who want to shield their teams from noise, prioritize what matters, and partner with IT to unlock automation without a costly tech overhaul. The focus is simple—reduce friction, raise insight, and spend more time advising than assembling.

We start with clarity: how to map every role and deliverable to a strategic objective, choose the leading indicators that actually drive action, and say no to work that doesn’t move the needle. From there, we dig into process and systems—standardizing inputs, automating routine pulls and reconciliations, and using collaborative workspaces so knowledge isn’t trapped in inboxes. Along the way, we challenge the culture of daily fire drills and offer a guardrail: route ad-hoc requests through a priority gate so the team’s best hours aren’t lost to random tasks.

Finally, we talk people. Coaching time management, building stronger analysis and storytelling skills, and running short, focused development sprints can transform morale and output. A tighter partnership with IT helps you ship quick wins—scheduled queries, clean templates, and self-serve dashboards—that free analysts to interpret trends and shape choices. Expect clear takeaways you can apply this week: an audit of calendars and tasks, a skills plan that sticks, and an automation backlog that delivers measurable time back.

Episode outline:

1. Clarify priorities and align with strategic goals,
2. Leverage tools and automation, and
3. Build capacity through development.

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.

Support the show

View Details

Send us a text

Episode 146: What if your accounting team did more than close the books—what if they helped shape outcomes before the month even ends? We explore how to evolve accounting from a reporting function into a true strategic partner that translates numbers into decisions. From building business acumen and storytelling skills to inserting accountants into high‑stakes projects, we lay out a practical path to unlock the insight already sitting inside your ledgers.

We start by reframing the role: compliance and accurate reporting remain essential, but the next level is connecting transactions to the choices leaders face. You’ll hear how to turn variance reviews into narratives operators can act on, when to reset baselines so forecasts stop lying, and how to use simple visuals and clear language to remove guesswork. We also talk about freeing capacity—retire low-value reports, streamline reconciliations, and focus on work that changes outcomes—so your team can show up where decisions are made, not just after the fact.

If you’re ready to move from ledgers to leverage, this conversation gives you clear steps to start today—train for communication, show up in project rooms, tell the story behind the numbers, and make accounting a catalyst for growth. Like what you heard? Follow, share with a colleague, and leave a review so more finance leaders can turn their teams into strategic partners.

Episode outline:

1. Evolve accounting from a reporting only entity,
2. Looking beyond compliance and good bookkeeping, and
3. Integrating governance and risk into strategy.

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.

Support the show

View Details

Send us a text

Episode 145: What happens when your FP&A team operates in isolation from the people actually running your business? Nothing good. The gap between finance and operations isn't just an organizational issue—it's a strategic vulnerability that could be costing your company significant competitive advantage.

Bridging this divide creates transformative opportunities. When finance professionals develop deep partnerships with operations teams, forecasting becomes dramatically more accurate, resource allocation improves, and the organization gains agility to respond to market changes. This alignment doesn't happen accidentally—it requires intentional leadership and cultural development focused on building mutual trust.

A well-aligned FP&A team operates as a true strategic partner rather than just a reporting function. They maintain a forward-looking mindset using forecasting, scenario analysis, and sensitivity testing to guide decisions instead of merely reporting historical results. Processes become streamlined, data grows more accurate, and finance professionals proactively engage with department leaders to translate strategy into measurable financial plans.

The alternative? Disconnected financial plans, unrealistic budgets, inefficient resource allocation, and the inability to respond quickly to changing market conditions. Operations may pursue initiatives that don't reflect financial constraints, while finance imposes limitations without understanding operational needs. Communication breakdowns reduce trust, weaken decision-making, and ultimately erode competitiveness.

Ready to transform this relationship in your organization? Start by developing a common language that translates finance terms into operational impacts. Build trust by providing insights that help operations succeed rather than just highlighting problems. Know the micro-details of the metrics you analyze, and be willing to step away from your desk to understand what's really driving performance. Remember: finance leaders have both the ethical and fiduciary responsibility to move the business forward through powerful partnerships.

Episode outline:

1. The benefits of properly strategically aligning your FP&A team,
2. What happens when FP&A is not aligned, and
3. A few steps to get started.

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.

Support the show

View Details

Send us a text

Bonus Episode #97: Ever wonder if your relentless optimism is actually harming your team? Drawing from Mita Mallik's Harvard Business Review article "Does your Boss Practice Toxic Positivity," this eye-opening episode explores how excessive positivity can become a manipulative weapon in the workplace.

Find the article here: "Does Your Boss Practice Toxic Positivity?"

The line between motivation and manipulation is thinner than we think. When leaders push unrealistic goals without providing adequate resources, they're not inspiring greatness—they're setting their teams up for burnout and failure. As finance professionals, we face tremendous pressure to deliver results regardless of constraints. But demanding performance without acknowledging reality isn't leadership; it's denial wrapped in a smile.

Ready to transform your leadership approach? Listen now and discover how balancing optimism with realism builds the trust and respect that drives sustainable success. Then share your experiences with manipulative positivity and how you've addressed it in your workplace.

Episode outline:

1. The weaponization of being too positive,
2. Be more realistic in your leadership style, and
3. Validate your team members’ concerns, which can lead to better solutions.

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.

Support the show

View Details

Send us a text

Bonus episode #96: This episode delivers a concise, actionable guide to the three most crucial learning priorities for finance leaders in the coming year: 1) using artificial intelligence to elevate your analysis, 2) performing a sensitivity analysis to make better strategic decision, and 3) applying financial risk management.

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.

Support the show

View Details

Send us a text

Bonus episode #95: What happens when a leader stops coaching effort and starts demanding it? The transformative power of high expectations takes center stage in this eye-opening exploration of leadership principles that transcend industries.

Drawing inspiration from WNBA coach Becky Hammond's bold approach with the Las Vegas Aces, we examine how her refusal to "coach effort" led to an impressive turnaround - from a mediocre record to eleven consecutive victories and a secured playoff position. The lesson? When leaders establish non-negotiable expectations for commitment and performance, they free themselves to focus on strategy, skills development, and team synergy.

For finance leaders, this philosophy presents a compelling alternative to traditional coaching methods. While we can't simply "bench" underperforming team members, we have our own toolkit - strategic assignments, development opportunities, promotions, and bonuses. But implementing this approach requires nuance. We must recognize the varying levels of experience, ability, and motivation across our teams while still maintaining core standards of excellence.

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.

Support the show

View Details

Send us a text

Bonus Episode #94: Change isn't just knocking at your door—it's already in your house, rearranging the furniture. As finance leaders, our ability to navigate and drive transformation determines whether our organizations thrive or merely survive in today's dynamic business landscape.

The most dangerous position for any finance professional is complacency. That comfortable position you've worked so hard to reach? It could disappear tomorrow if you're not constantly evolving your skills and mindset. Your competition isn't resting, and neither should you. As Amelia Earhart wisely noted, "The most difficult thing is the decision to act. The rest is merely tenacity." This wisdom applies perfectly to how we must approach change—with decisive action and unwavering persistence.

Leading change requires addressing two critical fronts simultaneously: your personal career development and your organization's adaptability. On the personal side, continuous learning is non-negotiable as our profession transforms through technological advancements like AI and regulatory shifts. For your organization, proactive change leadership means conducting regular team-based SWOT analyses, challenging assumptions, updating processes, and ensuring your technology remains current. The CFO plays a pivotal role by allocating resources that signal commitment to transformation initiatives while maintaining transparency with teams to build trust during periods of change.

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.

Support the show

View Details

Send us a text

Episode 144: Dive into the fascinating world of financial detective work as we explore the specialized field of forensic accounting. Ever wondered who tracks down financial criminals or how complex fraud schemes are uncovered? This episode pulls back the curtain on a career path that combines investigative prowess with accounting expertise.

We examine how forensic accountants serve as financial sleuths, tracing illicit transactions and identifying misappropriated assets for government agencies, insurance companies, and legal firms. Unlike traditional auditors who verify financial health, these specialists specifically search for irregularities with the presumption that misconduct may be present. Their work requires not just accounting knowledge, but also investigative techniques, legal understanding, and meticulous documentation skills.

Could this be your next career move? If you enjoy analyzing data, identifying patterns, and solving complex financial puzzles, don't overlook this rewarding specialization.

Find the Advance Your Career Course: more information here

Episode outline:

1. What is the purpose of forensic accounting,
2. The process of detecting fraud, and
3. Career opportunities for forensic accountants.

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.

Support the show

View Details

Send us a text

Episode 143: Financial integrity isn't optional—it's essential. That's why developing a structured, effective audit plan stands as one of the most critical responsibilities for finance leaders today.

This episode unveils a nine-step framework for creating audit plans that deliver genuine value. From understanding your business environment and conducting thorough risk assessments to defining clear audit scopes and establishing communication protocols, each element works together to create a process that leadership can trust. We explore how to effectively present technical findings to leadership teams in ways that drive action, not confusion. Most importantly, we examine why leadership commitment fundamentally determines whether an audit becomes a transformative tool or merely a compliance exercise.

Conflict Management Course information: find more information here

Episode outline:

1. How to structure an effective audit plan,
2. Presenting the findings to the leadership team, and
3. Why leadership is essential for the auditing function.

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.

Support the show

View Details

Send us a text

Find the downloadable skills guides here: Finance Leader Academy

Episode 142: Financial risk assessment stands as the cornerstone of effective auditing—the crucial process that separates calculated risk-taking from reckless decision-making. This deep dive into organizational risk management provides finance leaders with a strategic framework for protecting company assets and ensuring financial integrity.

At its core, proper risk assessment requires a cross-functional approach. By bringing together expertise from legal, treasury, accounting, and financial planning departments, organizations can conduct robust SWOT analyses that reveal potential vulnerabilities. The process continues with identifying key metrics related to areas of concern, scoring and ranking these metrics, and evaluating the effectiveness of existing internal controls. This methodical approach ensures that audit resources focus first on the areas presenting the greatest risk to financial health and operational integrity.

The significance of this process cannot be overstated. By systematically identifying weaknesses in internal controls and operational policies, finance leaders can build audit plans that address real vulnerabilities rather than perceived threats. This validation process provides confidence to all stakeholders—from employees and suppliers to creditors and potential investors—that the organization maintains financial stability and follows a viable strategic course. Whether you're managing compliance risk, credit and liquidity challenges, market uncertainties, or operational vulnerabilities, a well-designed risk assessment protocol serves as your first line of defense against financial irregularities. Take time today to evaluate your risk management system and ensure it effectively engages internal experts to assess your organization's most pressing risks. Your company's long-term success may depend on it.

Episode outline:

1. Analyzing various risk metrics will help identify areas with the weakest internal controls,
2. Why financial risk is the foundation of the audit plan, and
3. Properly integrating risk into what you audit.

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.

Support the show

View Details

Send us a text

Episode 141: Curious about what makes audit teams tick? Dive into the crucial yet often misunderstood world of audit team management where leadership goes far beyond checking boxes and finding faults.

Audit managers stand as guardians of financial integrity, straddling the strategic vision needed to align with business objectives while directing teams to investigate transactions that might reveal weaknesses in controls. These professionals aren't just looking to catch mistakes; they're building the foundation of trust upon which all stakeholder relationships depend. As I explore in this episode, "a company's financial reputation is the relevant social currency for doing business in the marketplace today."

The most effective audit leaders combine analytical prowess with exceptional communication skills, positioning themselves not as adversaries but as partners in organizational success. They understand that identifying issues internally before external parties discover them is a service to the organization. The audit team must be uncompromisingly ethical, as I note, "people pleasers make horrible auditors." Their findings, coupled with practical recommendations, drive improved processes, better governance, and ultimately, strategic advantage.

For finance professionals considering career development, time in audit roles offers unique perspective on how business functions interconnect, builds valuable problem-solving capabilities, and establishes you as a trusted advisor. Many successful finance leaders cut their teeth in audit before advancing to roles like finance director or risk manager. Ready to elevate your organization's audit function? Ensure your team has adequate resources, appropriate technology, necessary access, and leadership that values their findings.

What's the state of your audit function? Are you leveraging this critical team to their full potential? Subscribe now for next week's episode where I'll tackle risk assessment in the audit planning process.

Episode outline:

1. Key competencies of the audit team,
2. How the audit team manager contributes to the strategy and audit plan, and
3. How a role in audit can help your career.

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.

Support the show

View Details

Send us a text

Episode 140: Financial integrity isn't just about compliance—it's the cornerstone of organizational trust and success. In this thought-provoking exploration of the audit function, we dive deep into how forward-thinking CFOs are transforming what's often viewed as a necessary evil into a strategic advantage.

The most effective finance leaders understand that auditing isn't about hunting for mistakes or satisfying regulators; it's about building a foundation of accuracy that enables better decision-making at every level. We examine three essential pillars that should guide your audit strategy: fostering a team with unwavering professional ethics, ensuring meticulous financial accuracy in reporting, and implementing robust internal controls to safeguard company assets. These elements aren't just technical requirements—they're competitive advantages in a business landscape where trust is increasingly valuable currency.

Risk assessment emerges as a critical companion to effective auditing. By creating and continuously updating a comprehensive risk matrix, the CFO can ensure audit resources are deployed where they'll have the greatest impact. Whether you lead a small private company or a publicly traded enterprise, this strategic approach to audit planning transforms compliance activities into valuable insights that support long-term business goals. Remember, a truly effective audit function should regularly uncover areas for improvement—if your auditors never find issues, it's time to review your testing processes. The journey toward financial excellence begins with embracing auditing not as a basement-dwelling afterthought but as a spotlight illuminating your path to organizational integrity and sustainable success.

Episode outline:

1. Why is a solid audit plan essential for your organization,
2. Measuring and assessing organizational risk, and
3. How the CFO shapes the audit plan to support long term strategy.

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.

Support the show

View Details

Send us a text

Bonus episode #93: Leadership isn't about mastering spreadsheets—it's about transforming information into strategic action. In this preview of Season 20 of the Finance Leader Podcast, Stephen McLain unveils an exciting five-episode journey exploring audit, risk, and independence through the lens of leadership development.

Drawing from his compelling experiences as an internal review officer in Iraq, McLain shares how he helped military commanders stretch their budgets through enhanced accountability—often facing resistance until those same leaders witnessed how proper controls actually empowered their mission. This military-to-business parallel offers a refreshing perspective on audit functions that extends far beyond fraud prevention to ensuring financial accuracy and stakeholder confidence.

The upcoming season promises a comprehensive exploration of audit leadership, beginning with CFO oversight and audit team dynamics, then progressing through risk assessment, audit strategy development, and concluding with an intriguing look at forensic accounting careers. Whether you're looking to advance in finance, enhance your leadership toolkit, or discover how audit expertise can propel your career forward, this season delivers practical insights for professionals at every level. Subscribe now to join the journey toward becoming a strategic finance leader who thrives amid complexity and brings clarity when chaos seems the norm.

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.

Support the show

View Details

Send us a text

Bonus episode #92: Leadership is the bridge between resources and results, between data and decisions. While many finance professionals focus intensely on technical skills, the truly exceptional ones recognize that leadership development must come first. This episode makes a compelling case for prioritizing leadership skills as the foundation upon which all other finance competencies build.

Through an examination of both effective and ineffective leadership examples, we explore why leadership becomes the most important skill for finance professionals to develop. Great leadership isn't about quick wins or personal validation—it's about creating sustainable excellence by investing in your team's growth. When you develop leadership skills, you gain the ability to solve complex problems, bridge communication gaps between departments, and turn data into strategic action.

The episode outlines practical approaches to becoming a better leader: adopting a growth mindset, conducting meaningful one-on-ones, providing honest feedback, and building genuine relationships with team members. These skills allow finance professionals to move beyond being technical experts and become strategic partners who help shape the organization's future.

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.

Support the show

View Details

Send us a text

Bonus Episode #91: Ever feel like time is slipping away while your biggest goals remain unfulfilled? You're not alone. The difference between dreaming and achieving often comes down to one critical factor: your ability to stay focused in a world designed to distract you.

We explore three powerful approaches to maintaining laser-like focus. First, you'll learn how to identify and change the habits that consistently pull you off course. Those morning and evening routines? They're more critical to your success than you might realize. Second, I'll show you how creating a vision board transforms abstract dreams into concrete daily motivation, keeping your biggest aspirations front and center when decisions get tough. Finally, we'll cover the documentation and scheduling systems that turn intentions into actions, including how to use production timers, prioritization techniques, and progress tracking to build unstoppable momentum.

What makes this conversation particularly valuable is its honesty about the role your inner circle plays in your success. The people closest to you profoundly influence your mindset and behaviors—are they lifting you up or holding you back? By the end of this episode, you'll have a clear framework for minimizing distractions, maximizing productivity, and staying relentlessly focused on what matters most. Ready to transform your approach to goal achievement? This is your roadmap to results that last.

Episode outline:

1. Change your habits so you avoid the usual distractions,
2. Create a vision board to help turn your dream into reality, and
3. Schedule and document your goal achievement plan.

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.

1. Please download the Goal Setting Workbook that follows Episode 115: here
2. On the website, you can download the Become a Finance Leader Guide. You can use this guide to build your Finance Leadership skills so you can help senior leaders develop and execute the strategy.

Support the show

View Details

Send us a text

Episode 139: Are you responsible for coaching your team's effort level? The question struck me after hearing WNBA Coach Becky Hammon's bold post-game declaration following a tough loss: "I will not coach effort." Her philosophy is clear—professional athletes must bring 100% effort or risk being benched. But how does this translate to finance leadership?

Unlike professional sports, we lead teams with varying experience, motivation, and career aspirations. The approach that works for championship athletes may need substantial modification in our world. As finance leaders, our expectations about effort should adapt based on team member seniority and organizational level. A CFO might reasonably expect consistent high effort from VP-level direct reports, while more junior team members may need different guidance.

This episode explores the delicate balance of expecting versus coaching effort, drawing parallels between sports leadership, military command, and finance team management. We examine the tools available to finance leaders—from bonuses and promotions to training opportunities and key project assignments—and how these can be used strategically to address effort disparities without "benching" team members in the traditional sense.

Most importantly, we consider how our own example sets the standard. The effort we demonstrate daily as leaders becomes the benchmark for our teams. High-performance organizations don't just happen—they start with leaders who consistently model extraordinary effort and establish clear expectations about how work gets done.

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.

Support the show

View Details

Send us a text

Episode 138: Are you giving your absolute best, or just enough to get by? That comfortable routine might actually be your biggest career threat.

The silent killer of professional excellence is complacency – that subtle shift from passionate engagement to simply going through the motions. As we explore in this episode, complacency doesn't arrive with fanfare, but rather creeps in through routine tasks and diminishing challenges, eventually leading to laziness, sloppiness, and missed opportunities.

For leaders, the stakes are particularly high. Your team mirrors your standards and approach. When you become complacent, they follow suit, creating a downward spiral of diminishing performance. The organization faces increased risks as market signals are missed and important details overlooked. Meanwhile, your own growth stagnates, limiting future opportunities.

Episode outline:

1. What are the signs of job performance complacency?
2. Improvement starts with us, as leaders,
3. Coach your team to better performance.

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.

Support the show

View Details

Send us a text

Episode 137: What if the key to transforming your business lies not in adding more resources, but in simply understanding how your employees move through their workspace? In this eye-opening conversation with Service Physics co-founders Brian Reece and Steve Crowley, we uncover the hidden costs of inefficient processes that might be quietly draining your profits and customer satisfaction.

Website: www.servicephysics.com

Service Physics app download: Apple Store

Service Physics app download: Android

Brian Reece: LinkedIn

Steve Crowley: LinkedIn

Brian and Steve's journey began at Starbucks during the financial crisis, where they witnessed firsthand how applying lean principles transformed a struggling company into a global powerhouse. After further refining their approach at Anheuser-Busch, they founded Service Physics with a mission to make these powerful techniques accessible to businesses of all sizes. Their unique consulting approach—which they playfully describe as "doing consulting wrong"—focuses on being physically present in the workspace, collecting real data, and experimenting with improvements rather than simply delivering recommendations.

One of their most powerful revelations? The true cost of motion. Through simple techniques like "spaghetti diagrams" that track worker movements, they demonstrate how activities that look like work but add no value (like walking) can represent 10% of labor costs—translating to millions in opportunity costs for mid-sized companies. Even more striking is their finding that most service businesses already have sufficient equipment capacity; they're simply not using it efficiently.

What sets Service Physics apart is their focus on driving top-line growth rather than merely cutting costs. By helping businesses understand leading indicators (like customer queue length or transaction time) rather than just lagging metrics (like sales), they enable proactive improvements that capture previously unmet customer demand. Their entrepreneurial journey offers valuable lessons in bootstrapping a business, building systems that don't rely solely on founders, and creating clarity through effective communication—including innovative approaches like using AI to transform quarterly updates into podcasts.

Ready to discover how much hidden capacity your business already has? Download the Service Physics app, visit servicephysics.com, or catch them at upcoming industry events to learn how making work more joyful for employees creates better customer experiences and stronger financial results.

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.

Support the show

View Details

Send us a text

Episode #136: Matt Lhoumeau, CEO of Concord Worldwide, takes us on his extraordinary journey from founding his first company at 17 to revolutionizing how businesses handle their contracts.

Connect with Matt Lhoumeau and Concord:

1) Matt Lhoumeau: Matt's LinkedIn

2) Website: concord.app

Matt's revelation will surprise you: contract management has fundamentally transformed. While traditionally the exclusive domain of legal departments, today's reality shows operations and finance teams increasingly managing contracts—often with legal completely uninvolved. This shift, accelerated by AI, creates both challenges and opportunities for finance leaders seeking greater efficiency and control.

The numbers tell a shocking story. Matt reveals that 90% of companies still have no contract management system in place, relying instead on fragmented solutions combining e-signatures and generic document storage. Meanwhile, over 90% of contracts are signed without revisions—suggesting the real value is in in streamlined processes and financial oversight.

For finance leaders specifically, Matt offers invaluable wisdom from his entrepreneurial journey. He candidly admits wishing he'd hired a strong CFO earlier, emphasizing that great finance leaders "fight for every dollar" while serving as "guardians of processes"—implementing just enough structure without creating bureaucratic overhead. His perspective on monthly closing processes is particularly enlightening, as Concord evolves toward real-time financial visibility.

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.

Support the show

View Details

Send us a text

Bonus episode #90: Mindset forms the bedrock of effective leadership. The way we think shapes our decisions, influences how we solve problems, and determines the trajectory of our professional journey. But how often do we examine our own thought processes?

In this bonus episode, I explore the critical connection between mindset and leadership effectiveness. Your thought patterns affect everything—from how you allocate resources and prioritize tasks to how you motivate yourself and others during challenging times. I share three powerful strategies to challenge and improve your thought processes: paying attention to your thoughts (are they predominantly positive or negative?), breaking free from comfortable routines that stifle innovation, and rededicating yourself to authentic leadership. When was the last time you or your team generated fresh ideas or improved a process? If you can't remember, you might be trapped in complacency.

The most successful finance leaders consistently challenge their thinking patterns, embrace discomfort as a catalyst for growth, and execute their leadership vision with renewed purpose. This mindset-focused approach doesn't just transform how you lead—it revolutionizes the results you achieve and the impact you have on others. Are you ready to elevate your leadership by transforming how you think?

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.

Support the show

View Details

Send us a text

Bonus episode #89: A powerful accountability framework can be the difference between another year of unfulfilled potential and remarkable achievement in your finance career. Whether you're aiming for the CFO chair or seeking to level up your leadership skills, this episode unveils the three critical components of a personal accountability strategy that actually works.

We begin by examining the mindset shift required for genuine accountability. As finance professionals, we're excellent at holding others accountable through metrics and performance reviews, but often struggle with personal accountability. I explore why 99% of failures stem from excuse-making and how developing a no-quit attitude creates the persistence needed to overcome inevitable obstacles.

Beyond mindset, effective accountability requires a structured methodology. The SMART framework (Specific, Measurable, Achievable, Relevant, Time-bound) provides the architectural blueprint for transforming vague aspirations into concrete achievements. But even the best-designed goals require tactical implementation tools—the practical mechanisms that keep you on track daily. I share my personal accountability toolkit, including written plans, calendar systems, accountability partnerships, and environmental cues that have helped me consistently achieve my professional objectives.

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.

Support the show

View Details

Send us a text

Bonus episode #88: Your internal business processes are either empowering your team or quietly sabotaging your organization's success. As finance leaders, we must ensure our systems add value rather than create obstacles to growth and profitability.

Monthly close procedures provide a perfect example of process challenges. While the goal remains consistent across organizations—producing accurate financial statements and comprehensive business performance snapshots—execution varies dramatically. Many finance teams struggle with inefficient sequences, excessive approval layers, and outdated methodologies that transform what should be a streamlined operation into a dreaded monthly ordeal. The growing interest in "day zero close" reflects this widespread frustration with traditional approaches.

Episode outline:

1. Do your processes cause frustration?
2. Are your senior leaders receiving what they need?
3. Do your processes encourage long-term growth?
4. Are you reviewing your processes?

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.

Support the show

View Details

Send us a text

Bonus episode # 87: Where are your 2025 goals right now? If you've stalled or need to recalibrate, you're not alone. Sometimes life shifts dramatically after we set our annual targets, requiring us to adjust without abandoning our aspirations. Remember—adjusting your plan isn't quitting; it's strategic adaptation that keeps you moving forward while acknowledging your current reality.

Leadership excellence forms the heart of this episode, with a deep dive into five critical focus areas that transform good managers into exceptional leaders. Starting with setting the right example, we explore how performing the same work as your team while treating everyone with dignity creates the foundation for leadership credibility. Holding people accountable—perhaps the greatest service you can provide—helps develop future leaders while clearing pathways for team excellence by identifying and removing obstacles that prevent optimal performance. Strategic thinking, the ability to anticipate future developments and prepare accordingly, separates visionary leaders from reactive managers. We also tackle the sometimes challenging reality that your boss's priorities must become your priorities, using tools like the Eisenhower Matrix to balance urgent tasks with important initiatives.

The episode culminates with perhaps the most significant leadership responsibility: elevating others through thoughtful development opportunities. While some team members prefer routine responsibilities, high-potential individuals thrive when challenged with projects that stretch their capabilities without causing burnout. Throughout these leadership principles runs the common thread of self-care—proper sleep, nutrition, exercise, and downtime aren't luxuries but necessities that enable sustained leadership excellence. Technical expertise might be expected, but the true measure of leadership lies in your ability to elevate team performance to unprecedented levels. Ready to transform your leadership approach? Visit financeleaderacademy.com for additional resources to continue your development journey.

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.

Support the show

View Details

Send us a text

Bonus episode #86: When was the last time your finance team truly worked as a single unit rather than a collection of individuals? In this thought-provoking episode, we explore how leadership transforms independent contributors into high-performing teams that accomplish seemingly impossible goals.

Trust forms the bedrock of exceptional team performance. We delve into how leaders can cultivate environments where team members take calculated risks, collaborate effectively, and support one another through challenges. This trust doesn't happen by accident—it requires deliberate leadership focused on fairness, consistency, and mutual respect.

Clear communication emerges as the essential bridge between leadership intentions and team execution. We explore practical approaches to communication that eliminate confusion and align everyone toward common goals. From structured one-on-one meetings to effective team gatherings, we examine how communication patterns directly impact performance outcomes in finance organizations.

The episode also tackles practical strategies for enhancing team capabilities, including task automation, elimination of unnecessary processes, and delegation frameworks like the Eisenhower Decision Matrix. These approaches help finance teams manage their demanding workloads more effectively while focusing on high-value activities.

Beyond the tactical, we explore the deeper elements of team development—creating individual growth plans, establishing accountability without micromanagement, and fostering an environment where team members hold each other to high standards. These elements combine to create teams capable of sustained excellence rather than merely occasional high performance.

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.

Support the show

View Details

Send us a text

Bonus episode #85: In this engaging episode of The Finance Leader Podcast, we explore the intricate dynamics between competitor disruptions and customer traffic patterns. Social changes in a business’s environment can deliver unforeseen challenges and opportunities, making it vital for finance leaders to stay informed and prepared. Triggered by the closure of a popular retailer, we dissect how such events ripple through the ecosystem, affecting not only the shuttered business but also those operating nearby.

We take a closer look at actionable insights that finance leaders can employ to anticipate changes in traffic and adjust their strategies accordingly. We delve into metrics that should be monitored, such as year-over-year traffic data, customer behaviors, and the overall health of the business environment. This episode is designed to educate finance professionals on how to adopt a strategic mindset, remain vigilant, and adapt to external pressures effectively.

You'll learn how to analyze your customer traffic, refine your financial planning, and foster proactive measures that ensure resilience against competitive shifts. As the landscape continues to evolve, we urge our listeners to stay aligned in their financial strategies with the demands of their market. Join us, equip yourself with the insights shared in our discussion, and elevate your finance leadership skills.

Don't forget to subscribe to the podcast, share your thoughts, and leave a review. Your feedback helps us deliver more valuable content tailored to your needs!

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.

Support the show

View Details

Send us a text

Episode 135: Are you a finance leader eager to enhance your team's performance? This episode dives deep into the essential coaching techniques that can elevate your leadership game. We explore the vital distinction between coaching and teaching, emphasizing that coaching is not about providing answers but rather about listening and facilitating self-reflection.

Building trust is a crucial element discussed, as it lays the foundation for open communication and collaboration. We share actionable strategies for fostering an environment where team members feel supported and confident in sharing their challenges. Key coaching techniques, such as asking open-ended questions and practicing active listening, can lead to powerful insights and improvements in performance.

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.

Support the show

View Details

Send us a text

Episode 134: Unlock the secret to mastering situational awareness—a skill that sets exceptional leaders apart. Ever wondered how some leaders effortlessly anticipate market shifts and team dynamics? In this episode discover how being attuned to your surroundings can prevent awkward moments and enhance your strategic decision-making.

Join me as I break down real-world examples that illustrate the power of reading the room and anticipating industry trends. From subtle team cues to pivotal market signals, situational awareness is a critical tool in your leadership arsenal. Plus, revisit popular episodes from the year for additional insights and strategies to bolster your professional journey. Tune in and learn how to harness this essential skill to make informed decisions and foster meaningful connections within your organization.

Episode outline:

1. Do you ever find yourself not knowing what is happening around you,
2. More situational awareness leads to improved business decisions, and
3. How to improve your situational awareness.

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.

The Office of the CFO Bootcamp Training Workshop: CFO Bootcamp

Support the show

View Details

Send us a text

Episode 133: Unlock the secrets to maintaining razor-sharp focus as a leader, especially when chaos reigns. Discover the transformative power of strong habits and routines to keep distractions at bay and propel your team toward success. By crafting a vision board and setting SMART goals, you'll learn to structure your ambitions with precision, ensuring both personal and team growth. As leaders, our deliberate use of time and energy is crucial to fostering a productive environment that aligns with our aspirations.

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.

Support the show

View Details

Send us a text

You can find the article here: "Does Your Boss Practice Toxic Positivity" by Mita Mallick

Episode 132 - What if the optimism you thought was boosting your team is actually holding them back? This episode uncovers the fine line between constructive positivity and its toxic counterpart, revealing how excessive optimism can manipulate teams, cause burnout, and lead to frustration. Drawing on insights from Mita Mallik, we explore how leaders can fall into the trap of weaponizing positivity, often at the expense of addressing real workplace challenges. True leadership goes beyond the surface, requiring a commitment to realistic goals and genuine support through coaching, training, and mentoring. Beware of surrounding yourself with 'yes' people and the dangers of groupthink, as we highlight the pivotal role finance leaders play in aligning resources with organizational goals.

Honest communication and transparency emerge as crucial tools for effective leadership. Inspired by the Army's principle of leading from the front, we discuss strategies for actively supporting your team, managing workloads, and setting realistic expectations. Our conversation is enriched by gratitude to Mita Mallik and Harvard Business Review, whose valuable insights offer a roadmap for personal development in leadership. As we focus on building trust and mutual respect, we invite you to steer clear of manipulation and equip your teams for success in a resource-constrained environment. Join us for an engaging discussion on fostering genuine work relationships and guiding your team with integrity.

Episode outline:

1. The weaponization of being too positive,
2. Be more realistic in your leadership style, and
3. Validate your team members’ concerns, which can lead to better solutions.

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.

The Office of the CFO Bootcamp Training Workshop: CFO Bootcamp

Support the show

View Details

Send us a text

Episode 131: Chart your course for 2025 with insights that could redefine your approach to goal setting. Inspired by the legendary race car driver Mario Andretti, this episode steers you toward maintaining focus amidst life's inevitable distractions. Discover how to craft a process to achieve what's truly important, sidestepping the petty interruptions that threaten to derail your progress.

As January wraps up, it's time for a candid self-assessment. This episode encourages you to confront those internal barriers—like laziness and complacency—that can sabotage your long-term strategy. Reflect on your progress, cherish good distractions involving family and friends, and adjust your plans to ensure success in 2025. Stay committed, stay strong, and keep those future goals in sharp focus.

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.

The Office of the CFO Bootcamp Training Workshop: CFO Bootcamp

Support the show

View Details

Send us a text

Episode 130: Are you ready to transform your approach to leadership and steer your organization to success? Unlock the secrets of proactive change management in this riveting episode of The Finance Leader Podcast. We promise you'll discover how turning risk into opportunity can revolutionize your business strategy. Learn from the visionary insights of Steve Jobs and the strategic prowess found in military leadership, as we offer a roadmap to cultivate a culture of innovation and adaptability. From strategic resource allocation to the crucial role of the CFO, we unpack actionable strategies for maintaining relevance in a rapidly changing business landscape.

We delve deep into the art of staying ahead of the competition by embracing change. Hear how monitoring market dynamics and adjusting your approach can help secure a competitive edge. We also tackle the significance of regular SWOT analyses and the power of open communication in anticipating industry shifts. Keep your skills sharp and your career growth on track as we discuss how to prepare for future opportunities amidst changing global business practices. Plus, you'll gain insights into maintaining personal well-being to ensure you're equipped to lead through any challenge. Join us for a compelling conversation that will empower you to guide your team and organization toward sustainable success.

Episode outline:

1. Why leading proactive change is crucial,
2. To be competitive, you must continually be adapting, innovating, and inventing, and,
3. How the CFO can inspire and lead change.

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.

The Office of the CFO Bootcamp Training Workshop: CFO Bootcamp

Support the show

View Details

Send us a text

Episode 129: Unlock the secret to career success with confidence as your guide. Do you often find yourself trapped in self-doubt or hesitating to step beyond your comfort zone? Tune in to learn how to transform that hesitance into courage and expertise. This episode of the Finance Leader Podcast reveals practical strategies for building self-belief by achieving small victories, embracing your purpose, and reshaping your habits. You’ll discover how to turn mistakes into stepping stones and grow your skills through consistent practice, especially in crucial areas like presentations. Experience the power of confidence in leadership, making decisive choices, and earning respect, all while holding yourself accountable for personal growth.

Discover the powerful connection between accountability, confidence, and success as we explore how to continuously enhance your skill set and organize your daily activities for maximum impact. By focusing on a growth mindset, you can inspire your team, share valuable insights, and stay at the cutting edge of leadership. This episode promises to equip you with the tools and mindset needed to achieve your goals and unlock your full potential in both your personal and professional life.

Episode outline:

1. Achieve small successes,
2. Discover your purpose, and
3. Change your habits.

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.

The Office of the CFO Bootcamp Training Workshop: CFO Bootcamp

Support the show

View Details

Send us a text

Episode #128: Kickstart your 2025 with a potent strategy that ensures your goals don't end up as forgotten resolutions! We promise to guide you through a personal accountability process that transforms dreams into achievable milestones. What if we told you the secret to success lies not just in setting goals, but in how you hold yourself accountable to them? Join me as we unpack the power of mindset, attitude, and a commitment that defies excuses.

Harness the SMART goal-setting method to create a dynamic plan that propels you forward every day of the year. Explore the strength of purpose-driven passion and the influence of public declarations in maintaining your focus. Whether you need an external push or possess the internal drive to stay on course, this episode will arm you with the tools you need for a year of significant growth. Let's make 2025 the year you turn goals into accomplishments and dreams into reality.

Episode outline:

1. It begins with our mindset, our attitude and our commitment,
2. Use a proven method for goal achievement, and
3. Develop your toolset.

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 Goal Setting Workbook for Episode 115: here

The Office of the CFO Bootcamp Training Workshop: CFO Bootcamp

Support the show

View Details

Send us a text

Bonus Episode #84: As we close out 2024, I invite you to take a journey with me where we transform the notion of annual resolutions into meaningful, actionable strategies for 2025. Have you ever felt like you're just treading water, waiting for that magical moment to launch into success? Let’s turn 2025 into a year of remarkable progress and fulfillment. Visit financeleaderacademy.com for a treasure trove of resources designed to help us embark on this transformative journey.

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.

Support the show

View Details

Send us a text

Bonus Episode #83: This is a great time to do a leader reset before the new year begins, so please rest and reset, because the new year brings new challenges and new opportunities. I want you rested and ready once January 1st gets here. Enjoy your family time. Enjoy some time to chill and get ready for another year of hard work.

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.

Support the show

View Details

Send us a text

Bonus episode #81: Unlock the secrets of leadership excellence and transform your team's performance with insights that promise to elevate your leadership journey. This special bonus episode of The Finance Leader Podcast, hosted by Stephen McLain, revisits transformative leadership principles that inspire greatness just in time for the new year. Stephen draws on personal experiences from his time in the Army, emphasizing the importance of elevating others and setting the pace for success with integrity and high character. Whether you're facing challenges or embracing new opportunities, this episode serves as a motivational guide to enhancing your leadership skills and making a tangible impact in your world.

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.

Support the show

View Details

Send us a text

Bonus Episode 81 - Unlock the secrets to finishing the year with confidence and clarity as we guide you through the essential strategies for finance leaders. What if you could transform your year-end chaos into a streamlined process that sets the stage for success? Join me as I share my insights on balancing the myriad personal and professional demands of the holiday season. As finance leaders, we hold a unique power to influence our organizations and careers. This episode emphasizes the significance of finance leadership in decision-making and provides actionable guidance to navigate organizational challenges.

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.

Support the show

View Details

Send us a text

Bonus Episode #80: What if you could transform your leadership style by simply changing the way you see problems? On this special bonus episode of the Finance Leader Podcast, I, Stephen McLean, bring the concept of "leader's eyes" to life, an invaluable lesson I learned during my service in the United States Army. Through an engaging story from my military days, I unravel how the knack for identifying and rectifying small issues before they snowball can revolutionize the way you manage your team. This isn't just about spotting problems—it's about fostering an environment ripe for proactive leadership, continuous improvement, and unyielding teamwork.

You'll discover practical strategies for developing these "leader's eyes," focusing on proactive leadership, the power of coaching, and the magic of maintaining a positive attitude. By encouraging your team to take initiative and collaborate, you can create a culture where improvement is constant and every member feels empowered to contribute their best. This episode promises to equip you with the tools to make a meaningful impact on your organization. Dive into this journey of leadership evolution and learn how to truly lead with your eyes wide open. Visit financeleaderacademy.com for more insights and resources to bolster your leadership journey.

Episode outline:

1. Proactive leadership,
2. Coach your team members, and
3. Positive attitude.

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.

Support the show

View Details

Send us a text

Episode 127: Unlock the secrets to overcoming team frustrations and boost productivity like never before. Have you ever wondered why some teams thrive while others struggle with barriers like poor communication and micromanagement? This episode promises to transform your leadership approach by providing actionable strategies to create a supportive environment. We'll explore how open communication, fair treatment, and adequate resources can eliminate the frustrations that hold your team back. As we approach the end of the year, discover the importance of goal reviews and continuing professional education to prepare your team for upcoming challenges.

Episode outline:

1. Poor communication,
2. A lack of resources and training
3. Holding everyone accountable and treating all fairly, and
4. Developmental opportunities for career advancement.

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.

Support the show

View Details

Send us a text

Episode 126: Ever wondered how to transition from the demanding world of public accounting to a prestigious industry role? Join us as we sit down with Mike Manalac, Accounting Manager at Google and former PwC and Walmart accountant. Mike shares his incredible journey and the invaluable lessons he's learned along the way. From the rigorous training environments of Big Four firms to the nuances of auditing publicly traded companies, Mike offers insights that are crucial for anyone aspiring to climb the finance career ladder.

Curious about how the accounting landscape is evolving, especially with the rise of remote work and AI? This episode delves into the transformative impact of technology on finance roles. Mike emphasizes the importance of soft skills like creativity, leadership, and critical thinking to stand out in a field often stereotyped as rigid. Learn how to effectively navigate virtual leadership, utilize new collaborative tools, and stay ahead of the curve in a rapidly changing environment.

Balance is key, and Mike's approach to integrating fun into both professional and personal life is inspiring. Discover how unique skills and perspectives can give you a competitive edge, and how work-life balance not only enhances fulfillment but also boosts your career. Don't miss Mike's personal interests and his valuable resources like his website mikefromaccounting.com and courses designed to help accountants thrive. Whether you're an aspiring accountant or a seasoned professional, this episode is packed with actionable advice and insights.

Mike's website: mikefromaccounting.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.

Support the show

View Details

Send us a text

Episode 125: What if your workplace could be a source of joy and fulfillment rather than stress and dread? Join us this week on the Finance Leader Podcast as we uncover powerful strategies to transform your work environment into a thriving ecosystem where every team member feels valued and empowered. You’ll learn how to set realistic expectations, appreciate your team effectively, and utilize company benefits to their fullest potential.

In episode 125, we explore why poor leadership often turns work into a negative experience and how we can change this narrative. Discover the key to unlocking your team's true potential through meaningful one-on-one sessions and insightful conversations about their life purposes. We also discuss the importance of providing proper resources and unbiased feedback to cultivate a healthy, successful work environment. Tune in to equip yourself with the leadership skills necessary to help your team not only survive but truly thrive.

Episode outline:

1. Create a healthy work environment,
2. Inspire your team, and
3. Maximize all company benefits and programs.

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.

Support the show

View Details

Send us a Text Message.

Episode 124 - Join me as I explore why leadership is the cornerstone of creating positive change and achieving extraordinary results in finance and accounting. Learn how to coach your team effectively, helping them present their findings with confidence and develop innovative solutions that stand out in today’s competitive landscape. With practical advice and real-world examples, I'll guide you on the journey to becoming a great leader who can inspire a high-performing team capable of driving success and outlasting the competition. Don't miss out on this opportunity to elevate your leadership game and make a lasting impact on your organization.

Episode outline:

1. We need to develop leadership skills before anything else,
2. Leadership is how you create positive change,
3. How you can become a great leader.

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.

View Details

Send us a Text Message.

Are you following our Mid-Year Goal Review Challenge: financeleaderacademy.com/Goalchallenge ? Ready to transform your goal-setting game and make 2024 your most successful year yet? Join us in this special bonus episode of the Finance Leader Podcast, as we reveal how setting SMART goals—Specific, Measurable, Achievable, Realistic, and Time-based—can truly set you apart. We'll revisit the key insights from Episode 115 and challenge you with a Mid-Year Goal review. Learn why SMART goals outperform New Year's resolutions and how adopting a growth mindset can elevate your career and personal life. We'll also share strategies for staying focused, planning long-term, and getting back on track when necessary.

Discover the power of writing down your big goals and breaking them into manageable steps while ensuring they align with your career and family aspirations. We'll highlight the importance of continuous updates and accountability to maintain momentum. This episode isn't just about setting goals—it's about building a strong professional foundation, enhancing leadership skills, and fostering executive presence. Let's embark on this journey together and turn your 2024 aspirations into reality!

Episode outline:

1. Why we set goals and not new years’ resolutions,
2. Our mindset is our greatest asset,
3. What is your big goal for 2024?
4. Use the SMART method for goal planning.

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.

View Details

Send us a Text Message.

Episode 123: Could a major competitor's sudden closure transform your business landscape? Find out how unexpected changes in your competitive space can significantly impact your customer traffic and revenue. This episode takes you through a fascinating local case where a major retailer shut its doors—not due to poor performance, but rather a landlord's decision. We dissect the ripple effects on surrounding businesses in a bustling shopping center, providing you with essential metrics to gauge how such changes affect your operations.

Equip yourself with actionable strategies to adapt and thrive amidst market shifts. We'll explore year-over-year sales changes, variations in product types, and time-of-day traffic adjustments. Learn how to identify and fill market gaps left by a complementary business's closure. Stay ahead in your financial planning by optimizing your resources and preparing contingencies for unexpected disruptions. Join us as we offer invaluable insights to ensure your business remains resilient and responsive to changes in your competitive landscape.

Episode outline:

1. What happens when a business change occurs to a competitor,
2. What metrics and planning considerations should you analyze, and
3. We must be continually strategic in our analysis.

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.

View Details

Episode 114 encore: 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:

1. How finance agility and digital transformation gives you more flexibility in a turbulent environment,
2. Finance and digital transformation are keys to being more agile, and
3. What are your next steps?

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.

View Details

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:

1. Commit to focusing on soft skills,
2. Are they coachable,
3. Will they add value to your team,
4. Finance leaders must be teachers, and
5. Growth and development are keys to individual and team success.

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.

1. On the website, you can download the Become a Finance Leader Guide. You can use this guide to build your Finance Leadership skills so you can help senior leaders develop and execute the strategy.
2. I also offer a course, Advance Your Finance and Accounting Career: Developing a Promotion Strategy that Sets You Apart.

View Details

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:

1. Why we set goals and not new years’ resolutions,
2. Our mindset is our greatest asset,
3. What is your big goal for 2024?
4. Use the SMART method for goal planning.

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.

1. On the website, you can download the Become a Finance Leader Guide. You can use this guide to build your Finance Leadership skills so you can help senior leaders develop and execute the strategy.
2. I also offer a course, Advance Your Finance and Accounting Career: Developing a Promotion Strategy that Sets You Apart.

View Details

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:

1. What is intense accountability,
2. Own your mindset, goal setting, achievements, AND failures,
3. Accountability gets us out of our comfort zone, so we take risk,
4. Our professional conduct requires accountability too, and
5. Become a more sought-after finance leader.

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.

1. On the website, you can download the Become a Finance Leader Guide. You can use this guide to build your Finance Leadership skills so you can help senior leaders develop and execute the strategy.
2. I also offer a course, Advance Your Finance and Accounting Career: Developing a Promotion Strategy that Sets You Apart.

View Details

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.

1. On the website, you can download the Become a Finance Leader Guide. You can use this guide to build your Finance Leadership skills so you can help senior leaders develop and execute the strategy.
2. I also offer a course, Advance Your Finance and Accounting Career: Developing a Promotion Strategy that Sets You Apart.

View Details

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.

1. Please download the Goal Setting Workbook that follows Episode 115: here
2. On the website, you can download the Become a Finance Leader Guide. You can use this guide to build your Finance Leadership skills so you can help senior leaders develop and execute the strategy.
3. I also offer a course, Advance Your Finance and Accounting Career: Developing a Promotion Strategy that Sets You Apart.

View Details

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.

1. Please download the Goal Setting Workbook that follows Episode 115: here
2. On the website, you can download the Become a Finance Leader Guide. You can use this guide to build your Finance Leadership skills so you can help senior leaders develop and execute the strategy.
3. I also offer a course, Advance Your Finance and Accounting Career: Developing a Promotion Strategy that Sets You Apart.

View Details

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.

View Details

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:

1. What is business strategy,
2. Accounting and finance system considerations to support your strategy,
3. Develop the right key performance indicators, and
4. Use leadership and knowledge to solve business problems.

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.

1. Please download the Goal Setting Workbook that follows Episode 115: here
2. On the website, you can download the Become a Finance Leader Guide. You can use this guide to build your Finance Leadership skills so you can help senior leaders develop and execute the strategy.
3. I also offer a course, Advance Your Finance and Accounting Career: Developing a Promotion Strategy that Sets You Apart.

View Details

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.

1. To learn more about the Conflict Management and Emotional Intelligence training, you can find it here.
2. On the website, you can download the Become a Finance Leader Guide. You can use this guide to build your Finance Leadership skills so you can help senior leaders develop and execute the strategy.

View Details

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:

1. Change your habits so you avoid the usual distractions,
2. Create a vision board to help turn your dream into reality, and
3. Schedule and document your goal achievement plan.

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.

1. Please download the Goal Setting Workbook that follows Episode 115: here
2. On the website, you can download the Become a Finance Leader Guide. You can use this guide to build your Finance Leadership skills so you can help senior leaders develop and execute the strategy.
3. I also offer a course, Advance Your Finance and Accounting Career: Developing a Promotion Strategy that Sets You Apart.

View Details

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:

1. Why we set goals and not new years’ resolutions,
2. Our mindset is our greatest asset,
3. What is your big goal for 2024?
4. Use the SMART method for goal planning.

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.

1. On the website, you can download the Become a Finance Leader Guide. You can use this guide to build your Finance Leadership skills so you can help senior leaders develop and execute the strategy.
2. I also offer a course, Advance Your Finance and Accounting Career: Developing a Promotion Strategy that Sets You Apart.

View Details

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.

View Details

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.

1. On the website, you can download the Become a Finance Leader Guide. You can use this guide to build your Finance Leadership skills so you can help senior leaders develop and execute the strategy.
2. I also offer a course, Advance Your Finance and Accounting Career: Developing a Promotion Strategy that Sets You Apart.

View Details

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.

1. On the website, you can download the Become a Finance Leader Guide. You can use this guide to build your Finance Leadership skills so you can help senior leaders develop and execute the strategy.
2. I also offer a course, Advance Your Finance and Accounting Career: Developing a Promotion Strategy that Sets You Apart.

View Details

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:

1. Why team engagement is important,
2. Team engagement tools you can easily use, and
3. How to go to the next level.

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.

1. On the website, you can download the Become a Finance Leader Guide. You can use this guide to build your Finance Leadership skills so you can help senior leaders develop and execute the strategy.
2. I also offer a course, Advance Your Finance and Accounting Career: Developing a Promotion Strategy that Sets You Apart.

View Details

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:

1. Is the business achieving the strategy,
2. How FP&A can add huge value,
3. Do they have the right tools,
4. Invest in your FP&A team, and
5. Where is FP&A going in the future?

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.

1. On the website, you can download the Become a Finance Leader Guide. You can use this guide to build your Finance Leadership skills so you can help senior leaders develop and execute the strategy.
2. I also offer a course, Advance Your Finance and Accounting Career: Developing a Promotion Strategy that Sets You Apart.

View Details

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:

1. How finance agility and digital transformation gives you more flexibility in a turbulent environment,
2. Finance and digital transformation are keys to being more agile, and
3. What are your next steps?

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.

1. On the website, you can download the Become a Finance Leader Guide. You can use this guide to build your Finance Leadership skills so you can help senior leaders develop and execute the strategy.
2. I also offer a course, Advance Your Finance and Accounting Career: Developing a Promotion Strategy that Sets You Apart.

View Details

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.

1. On the website, you can download the Become a Finance Leader Guide. You can use this guide to build your Finance Leadership skills so you can help senior leaders develop and execute the strategy.
2. I also offer a course, Advance Your Finance and Accounting Career: Developing a Promotion Strategy that Sets You Apart.

View Details

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:

1. What is intense accountability,
2. Own your mindset, goal setting, achievements, AND failures,
3. Accountability gets us out of our comfort zone, so we take risk,
4. Our professional conduct requires accountability too, and
5. Become a more sought-after finance leader.

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.

1. On the website, you can download the Become a Finance Leader Guide. You can use this guide to build your Finance Leadership skills so you can help senior leaders develop and execute the strategy.
2. I also offer a course, Advance Your Finance and Accounting Career: Developing a Promotion Strategy that Sets You Apart.

View Details

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.

1. On the website, you can download the Become a Finance Leader Guide. You can use this guide to build your Finance Leadership skills so you can help senior leaders develop and execute the strategy.
2. I also offer a course, Advance Your Finance and Accounting Career: Developing a Promotion Strategy that Sets You Apart.

View Details

Imagine supercharging your team's performance and productivity, while simultaneously improving their daily work experience. This episode promises to hand you the keys to that transformation. In the episode, I will discuss five key actions that revolve around enhancing your communication skills, scheduling routine 1:1 meetings, eliminating roadblocks, developing Individual Development Plans, and sculpting unique pathways for success.

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.

1. On the website, you can download the Become a Finance Leader Guide. You can use this guide to build your Finance Leadership skills so you can help senior leaders develop and execute the strategy.
2. I also offer a course, Advance Your Finance and Accounting Career: Developing a Promotion Strategy that Sets You Apart.

View Details

We'll be revisiting one of our most impactful episodes from Season 13 where we unpack the significance of these professional credentials and guide you on where to lay your focus. The finance and accounting landscape is forever shifting and evolving - so how do you stay ahead of the curve? Professional credentials are more than badges of technical prowess; they serve as a testament to your unwavering dedication to learning, growth, and adaptability. This is your chance to prove your mettle in these exciting, ever-changing fields.

Episode outline:

1. What does it mean by having professional credentials,
2. Where should you focus, and
3. Ensure you manage your continuing professional credits throughout the year.

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.

1. On the website, you can download the Become a Finance Leader Guide. You can use this guide to build your Finance Leadership skills so you can help senior leaders develop and execute the strategy.
2. I also offer a course, Advance Your Finance and Accounting Career: Developing a Promotion Strategy that Sets You Apart.

View Details

Facing an unpredictable change at work can be daunting, can't it? Especially when it's a major shift like mass layoffs, new leadership, or a different company strategy. As finance and accounting professionals, we are not immune to these whirlwinds of change. So, how do we adapt? Fear not, for this bonus episode of the Finance Leader Podcast is here to guide you, offering a process to make wise and calculated decisions when faced with significant changes.

Adapting to change process:

1. Accept that nothing stays the same,
2. Have your tools ready,
3. Continue to produce great work,
4. Do the analysis and make a well-thought-out decision on how you face the change, and
5. Commit to your decision without regret.

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.

1. On the website, you can download the Become a Finance Leader Guide. You can use this guide to build your Finance Leadership skills so you can help senior leaders develop and execute the strategy.
2. I also offer a course, Advance Your Finance and Accounting Career: Developing a Promotion Strategy that Sets You Apart.

View Details

What if you, as a finance professional, had the power to shape the future of your organization and influence more positive outcomes? Imagine being the driving force that transforms your team into better versions of themselves! We're going to explore these possibilities in today's episode. With our unique perspective in assessing and measuring key data, we discuss how our daily tasks are not just about crunching numbers but are pivotal in making strategic decisions. Our role is to inspire and guide our team to appreciate how their work is making a real impact on the organization's success.

Episode outline:

1. How Finance and Accounting professionals impact the organization,
2. Show your team members how they make a difference, and
3. A true Finance Leader will transform the people around them into a better version of themselves.

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.

1. On the website, you can download the Become a Finance Leader Guide. You can use this guide to build your Finance Leadership skills so you can help senior leaders develop and execute the strategy.
2. I also offer a course, Advance Your Finance and Accounting Career: Developing a Promotion Strategy that Sets You Apart.

View Details

Ever puzzled over how your career skills need to evolve as you climb the ladder in your financial and accounting career? Join us as we delve into the transformation from mastering technical skills to becoming an effective communicator, strategist, and organizational leader. Also, as the year-end approaches, it's time to review your 2023 accomplishments and begin strategizing for 2024.

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.

1. On the website, you can download the Become a Finance Leader Guide. You can use this guide to build your Finance Leadership skills so you can help senior leaders develop and execute the strategy.
2. I also offer a course, Advance Your Finance and Accounting Career: Developing a Promotion Strategy that Sets You Apart.

View Details

Have you ever stopped to consider the gravity of your role as a finance or accounting professional? We're the guardians of our organizations' critical resources, the moral compass guiding our teams, and the defenders of ethical conduct. In this thought-provoking episode of the Finance Leader Podcast, we explore the significance of character and integrity in our field. We delve into the crucial expectations of high ethics, the importance of trustworthiness, and the vital systems of internal controls acting as safeguards against misuse of assets.

As we challenge conventional wisdom, we pose the question: can strong character be taught, or is it inherent? This episode urges you to reflect on your own character, integrity, and the implications of your actions on your team and your organization. We discuss effective ways to communicate and uphold expectations of character and ethics within our teams. Of course, ethics is not just about preaching - it's about practicing. You'll find out why the most influential leaders are those who display high character and how they shape the culture and practices of their teams. Tune in to gain valuable insights into maintaining high ethical standards in our professions, and how we can continually strive to be better leaders.

Episode outline:

1. Why a high level of character is expected,
2. Internal controls are still a must, and
3. The great leaders display the highest character.

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.

1. On the website, you can download the Become a Finance Leader Guide. You can use this guide to build your Finance Leadership skills so you can help senior leaders develop and execute the strategy.
2. I also offer a course, Advance Your Finance and Accounting Career: Developing a Promotion Strategy that Sets You Apart.

Support the show

View Details

We kick off by shedding light on how cultivating leadership qualities can propel your career ahead while catalyzing remarkable transformations in your team and the broader organization. We delve deep into the strategy of excellence, putting a spotlight on the power of clear communication, high expectations, and accountability. We also underscore the significance of trust, character, integrity, and equality in creating an environment that breeds excellence.

Episode outline:

1. What does achieving excellence mean,
2. Why developing your leadership will propel your career, and
3. How you can make a positive difference around you.

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.

1. On the website, you can download the Become a Finance Leader Guide. You can use this guide to build your Finance Leadership skills so you can help senior leaders develop and execute the strategy.
2. I also offer a course, Advance Your Finance and Accounting Career: Developing a Promotion Strategy that Sets You Apart.

Support the show

View Details

Looking to level up from a finance professional to a Treasury Manager? We lay out the key tasks of a Treasury Manager, from cash management and forecasting to compliance, and explore the impact of banking relationships on business operations. Tune in as we dissect the importance of cash position and the growth opportunities within this role.

Episode outline:

1. Key responsibilities and tasks of the Treasury function,
2. What this role means for the organization, and
3. How this role can be an opportunity for you.

Certifications:

1. Certified Treasury Professional (CTP) from the Association of Financial Professionals
2. Association of Corporate Treasurers

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.

1. On the website, you can download the Become a Finance Leader Guide. You can use this guide to build your Finance Leadership skills so you can help senior leaders develop and execute the strategy.
2. I also offer a course, Advance Your Finance and Accounting Career: Developing a Promotion Strategy that Sets You Apart.

Support the show

View Details

Ever made a professional mistake that kept you up at night? Trust me, we've all been there. Each day brings new challenges and mindset battles, and sometimes, we falter. But, what defines us isn't the falter, but how we recover from it. Join me as I take you through the reality of professional mistakes in this bonus episode.

Get ready to transform a bad situation into a positive one. I'll be sharing some effective steps to address and overcome professional mistakes, emphasizing on the importance of owning your errors, being upfront about them, and maintaining the highest character and integrity. I'll also share some insights on how to repair the error, learn from it and more importantly, get past it. Whether it's a company-wide high-risk blunder or a simple misreading of data, there's a way to bounce back. So, if you're looking to strengthen your mindset, improve your leadership skills and gracefully overcome professional mistakes, you can't afford to miss this episode.

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.

1. On the website, you can download the Become a Finance Leader Guide. You can use this guide to build your Finance Leadership skills so you can help senior leaders develop and execute the strategy.
2. I also offer a course, Advance Your Finance and Accounting Career: Developing a Promotion Strategy that Sets You Apart.

Support the show

View Details

Ever feel overwhelmed by the sheer volume of numbers and metrics in finance? Imagine how your audience feels! Join me as I briefly explain the art of providing high-value, simple yet powerful financial analysis. Guaranteeing clarity, I will guide you to focus on the fundamentals, stripping back unnecessary complexity and enhancing the impact of your communication.

We all know how counterproductive overloading information can be. It's high time we learned to deliver top-notch analysis in fewer words. Listen in as I share insights into understanding your audience, answering only what's asked, and eliminating anything that doesn't add value.

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.

1. On the website, you can download the Become a Finance Leader Guide. You can use this guide to build your Finance Leadership skills so you can help senior leaders develop and execute the strategy.
2. I also offer a course, Advance Your Finance and Accounting Career: Developing a Promotion Strategy that Sets You Apart.

Support the show

View Details

Are you ready to skyrocket your finance and accounting career? We've got the tips and insights you need to gain a competitive edge in the workplace. This bonus episode is packed with valuable advice on adopting a growth mindset, dressing to impress, and participating in high visibility projects. You'll also learn the importance of having a written plan, taking risks, developing soft skills, earning professional credentials, and being part of the community at work.

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.

1. On the website, you can download the Become a Finance Leader Guide. You can use this guide to build your Finance Leadership skills so you can help senior leaders develop and execute the strategy.
2. I also offer a course, Advance Your Finance and Accounting Career: Developing a Promotion Strategy that Sets You Apart.

Support the show

View Details

Ready to level up your goal-setting game and achieve more than ever before? Discover the power of the SMART Goal-Setting Technique in our latest episode, where we break down how to set specific, measurable, attainable, relevant, and time-bound goals that will lead to greater success.

But why stop there? In the second half of this episode, we dive into strategies for personal and professional improvement, guiding you through mindset shifts, leadership development, and goal clarification. We share actionable tips to advance your career and resources to help you take charge of your life. Don't miss this opportunity to learn valuable advice and strategies for becoming the best version of yourself - with the SMART Goal-Setting Technique and a commitment to growth, there's no limit to what you can accomplish.

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.

1. On the website, you can download the Become a Finance Leader Guide. You can use this guide to build your Finance Leadership skills so you can help senior leaders develop and execute the strategy.
2. I also offer a course, Advance Your Finance and Accounting Career: Developing a Promotion Strategy that Sets You Apart.

Support the show

View Details

As we approach the halfway mark of the year, it's time to take stock of our progress and challenges in becoming better finance leaders. Join me in this bonus episode of the Finance Leader Podcast, where we'll discuss goal achievement, prioritization, and making the best decisions to maximize our time, energy, and resources. Send me an email about your progress and challenges, and let's work together to make 2023 a year of incredible growth and accomplishment for all of us in the finance community.

Coming up in our next full episode, we'll explore the game-changing potential of the Treasury Function for organizations. Discover how a Treasury Manager can be a key leader in executing strategy by addressing cash flow issues, credit usage, and banking relationships. Learn how this crucial role can make a significant impact on your company's financial success, and stay tuned for strategic insights to help you become a better finance leader. Thank you for choosing the Finance Leader Podcast, and I look forward to continuing our journey together.

Email me: You can email me at contact@stephenmclain.com to update me on your goal progress and challenges. I am excited to hear from you.

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.

1. On the website, you can download the Become a Finance Leader Guide. You can use this guide to build your Finance Leadership skills so you can help senior leaders develop and execute the strategy.
2. I also offer a course, Advance Your Finance and Accounting Career: Developing a Promotion Strategy that Sets You Apart.

Support the show

View Details

Do you ever find yourself obsessing over your work, doubting your competency, or struggling to stay productive? What if you could harness your obsessive-compulsive tendencies to supercharge your career in finance and accounting? In this eye-opening episode, we explore the traits of the obsessive-compulsive accounting and finance professional and discuss how sometimes, our OCD can be our superpower! Listen in as we share our experiences with obsessing over perfection, worrying about miscalculations, and how our OCD has helped us solve problems that require intense focus and dedication.

Note: I am not a mental health expert. Seek professional help to access tools that can help you, if you need to.

Episode outline:

1. Traits of the obsessive-compulsive accounting and finance professional,
2. Sometimes our OCD can be a superpower,
3. Tools for better productivity, and
4. Our mindset is the gateway to success.

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.

1. On the website, you can download the Become a Finance Leader Guide. You can use this guide to build your Finance Leadership skills so you can help senior leaders develop and execute the strategy.
2. I also offer a course, Advance Your Finance and Accounting Career: Developing a Promotion Strategy that Sets You Apart.

Support the show

View Details

Team engagement is such an important daily exercise that it can affect how well your team members succeed or not. Team members who are positively engaged are more productive, more efficient, and more motivated to do a great job. And team member engagement begins with us as leaders. We must be leaders of great character and integrity. Positive team member engagement leads to growth and high-quality output. Invest in yourself to be a better leader so you can further invest in your team to help them achieve greater potential, and you will see amazing results.

Episode outline:

1. Why team engagement is important,
2. Team engagement tools you can easily use, and
3. How to go to the next level.

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.

1. On the website, you can download the Become a Finance Leader Guide. You can use this guide to build your Finance Leadership skills so you can help senior leaders develop and execute the strategy.
2. I also offer a course, Advance Your Finance and Accounting Career: Developing a Promotion Strategy that Sets You Apart.

Support the show

View Details

What drives you to achieve excellence? To achieve your BEST every day? Learning is a big part of our journey in achieving excellence, so what helps you to stay motivated to learn and grow? I believe we must stay curious and be curious to continue to develop and improve each day. Our learning approach helps to expand our capacity AND our potential. Stay and be curious in our profession so you learn new skills and new ways to lead your team and organization to more positive outcomes. Train yourself to be curious, which can lead to more opportunities to advance.

Episode outline:

1. Our curiosity leads to the development of new skills and abilities,
2. How to train yourself to be more curious, and
3. Continually expand your potential for finance leadership.

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.

1. On the website, you can download the Become a Finance Leader Guide. You can use this guide to build your Finance Leadership skills so you can help senior leaders develop and execute the strategy.
2. I also offer a course, Advance Your Finance and Accounting Career: Developing a Promotion Strategy that Sets You Apart.

View Details

The predictions are out for 2023 for Finance and Accounting, and it looks interesting. Our fields continue to be in high demand. What are the types of roles that are in demand right now, and what type of work are people looking for? And what are the technology and professional trends for the upcoming year? We continue to face change and turbulence in the economy so it’s imperative that we stay in the know about what is happening. This is our profession. And I want you to embrace moving between Finance and Accounting in your career path so you have a broad experience, which will prepare you for senior finance leadership.

Episode outline:

1. Current hiring trends,
2. Technology updates, and
3. Know the trends so you can adjust your plan.

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.

1. On the website, you can download the Become a Finance Leader Guide. You can use this guide to build your Finance Leadership skills so you can help senior leaders develop and execute the strategy.
2. I also offer a course, Advance Your Finance and Accounting Career: Developing a Promotion Strategy that Sets You Apart.

View Details

Strategy is a decision around what market you will pursue and with what product and service mix and more importantly - how you will employ your resources to serve that market properly, so your company becomes profitable. Companies don’t have unlimited resources, so they must make very deliberate, data-driven, and leader-guided decisions to make those difficult choices. This is where you, a finance leader, comes in.

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. 

1. On the website, you can download the Become a Finance Leader Guide. You can use this guide to build your Finance Leadership skills so you can help senior leaders develop and execute the strategy.
2. I also offer a course, Advance Your Finance and Accounting Career: Developing a Promotion Strategy that Sets You Apart.

View Details

What can you do better to make a positive difference? Team engagement is a necessity. If your team is quiet, it doesn’t mean things are necessary going well. You have to engage with them and continually be assessing where you can affect positive change and ensure the work continues to a high level. So, how should you engage with your team to make them better, to create a better work environment, and to foster a greater work experience?

Tools for better team engagement:
1) Resourcing,
2) Training,
3) Create an efficiency and update your processes to better align tasks,
4) Team culture and environment,
5) How to address concerns,
6) Improve communication, and
7) Create opportunities for advancement.

Please connect with me on:

1. Instagram: stephen.mclain
2. Twitter: smclainiii
3. Facebook: stephenmclainconsultant
4. LinkedIn: stephenjmclainiii

For more resources, please visit stephenmclain.com. On the website, you can download the Leadership Growth Blueprint for Finance and Accounting Managers. You can use this guide to develop your leadership by focusing on communication, and growing and empowering your team.

You can now purchase a course to help you advance your career from financeleaderacademy.com. It's called Advance Your Finance and Accounting Career: Developing a Promotion Strategy that Sets You Apart.

View Details

Be careful not to take back the "task monkey" who is wanting and waiting to jump on someone else. You may even have a team member who does this often to you so be watching and careful so you stop taking on their tasks. Be a leader and a coach and watch your own discretionary time.

Source: Harvard Business Review (1999), "Management Time: Who's Got The Monkey"

Please connect with me on:

1. Instagram: stephen.mclain
2. Twitter: smclainiii
3. Facebook: stephenmclainconsultant
4. LinkedIn: stephenjmclainiii

For more resources, please visit stephenmclain.com. On the website, you can download the Leadership Growth Blueprint for Finance and Accounting Managers. You can use this guide to develop your leadership by focusing on communication, and growing and empowering your team.

You can now purchase a course to help you advance your career from financeleaderacademy.com. It's called Advance Your Finance and Accounting Career: Developing a Promotion Strategy that Sets You Apart.

View Details

What does it mean to be a leader? How do you know if you are leading correctly? Leadership is hard sometimes. It takes practice and sometimes failure to get it right. With leadership, always begin with yourself. Are you setting the right example for others to follow? Will others willingly follow you, especially in a crisis or a tough situation? When something goes wrong, what are your first actions?

Please connect with me on:

1. Instagram: stephen.mclain
2. Twitter: smclainiii
3. Facebook: stephenmclainconsultant
4. LinkedIn: stephenjmclainiii

For more resources, please visit stephenmclain.com. On the website, you can download the Leadership Growth Blueprint for Finance and Accounting Managers. You can use this guide to develop your leadership by focusing on communication, and growing and empowering your team.

You can now purchase a course to help you advance your career from financeleaderacademy.com. It's called Advance Your Finance and Accounting Career: Developing a Promotion Strategy that Sets You Apart.

View Details

This week, I am sharing Episode 88, Earning a Promotion to Manager. What does it take to be promoted from individual contributor to manager? You must show potential for greater responsibility. You need a combination of mature soft skills, good character and high emotional intelligence, deliver results every time, and be able to treat people fairly without bias. These qualities really apply to every promotion no matter the level of responsibility.

Please connect with me on:

1. Instagram: stephen.mclain
2. Twitter: smclainiii
3. Facebook: stephenmclainconsultant
4. LinkedIn: stephenjmclainiii

For more resources, please visit stephenmclain.com. On the website, you can download the Leadership Growth Blueprint for Finance and Accounting Managers. You can use this guide to develop your leadership by focusing on communication, and growing and empowering your team.

You can now purchase a course to help you advance your career from financeleaderacademy.com. It's called Advance Your Finance and Accounting Career: Developing a Promotion Strategy that Sets You Apart.

View Details

Our professional credentials show our commitment level in becoming an expert in the finance and accounting fields. These are badges of knowledge and expertise that show our level of technical knowledge, strategy, and in leadership. Earning professional credentials demonstrates our dedication to learning and growing so that we can provide the best level of service and advice in often tough situations. The Finance and accounting fields are constantly evolving as business and the economy changes. Top companies and clients want experts guiding them as they develop and execute an effective strategy in challenging times. Earn your credentials so you achieve a high level of expertise so you are sought after to lead.

Episode outline:

1. What does it mean by having professional credentials,
2. Where should you focus, and
3. Ensure you manage your continuing professional credits throughout the year.

Please connect with me on:

1. Instagram: stephen.mclain
2. Twitter: smclainiii
3. Facebook: stephenmclainconsultant
4. LinkedIn: stephenjmclainiii

For more resources, please visit stephenmclain.com. On the website, you can download the Leadership Growth Blueprint for Finance and Accounting Managers. You can use this guide to develop your leadership by focusing on communication, and growing and empowering your team.

You can now purchase a course to help you advance your career from financeleaderacademy.com. It's called Advance Your Finance and Accounting Career: Developing a Promotion Strategy that Sets You Apart.

View Details

I am sharing what it means to set a plan and then to stay organized and focused so you can go achieve it. You must be persistent, and never quit. You can assess and reorganize, but never quit. What will you do when an obstacle gets in your way? What will you do when you have distractions? How will you ensure you have the right people around you so they support you? There are so many considerations after put your goals on the page.

Episode outline:

1. Achievement begins with our mindset,
2. Setting great habits and a daily routine are key,
3. Stay organized,
4. Be persistent,
5. Ensure you surround yourself with supportive people, and
6. Develop a plan so you stay focused.

Please connect with me on:

1. Instagram: stephen.mclain
2. Twitter: smclainiii
3. Facebook: stephenmclainconsultant
4. LinkedIn: stephenjmclainiii

For more resources, please visit stephenmclain.com. On the website, you can download the Leadership Growth Blueprint for Finance and Accounting Managers. You can use this guide to develop your leadership by focusing on communication, and growing and empowering your team.

You can now purchase a course to help you advance your career from financeleaderacademy.com. It's called Advance Your Finance and Accounting Career: Developing a Promotion Strategy that Sets You Apart.

View Details

When we set our goals, let’s use the SMART goal setting methodology so we set realistic goals that we can achieve because we have properly thought through the best way to plan them and achieve them. You know I how I feel about New Years’ resolutions, because at this point, most people have given up on them since they had no solid foundation in being achieved. Let’s plan out goals that make sense for us.

Episode outline:

1. Be focused,
2. The SMART Goal Setting technique, and

3. Ensure you be BOLD this year.

4. SMART goal setting is a method of setting goals that is widely used in business and organizations. The acronym SMART stands for Specific, Measurable, Achievable, Relevant, and Time-bound. These five criteria are used to ensure that goals are well-defined and achievable.

5. Specific: A specific goal has a clear target or outcome that is well defined. It should answer the questions of what, why and how

6. Measurable: A measurable goal can be quantified or tracked in some way. This allows for progress to be monitored and the goal's achievement to be evaluated.

7. Achievable: The goal should be realistic and attainable. It should be something that can be achieved with the resources and capabilities available.

8. Relevant: A relevant goal is one that aligns with the overall objectives and mission of the organization or individual.

9. Time-bound: A goal should have a specific deadline for completion. This creates a sense of urgency and helps to focus efforts towards achieving the goal.

Please connect with me on:

1. Instagram: stephen.mclain
2. Twitter: smclainiii
3. Facebook: stephenmclainconsultant
4. LinkedIn: stephenjmclainiii

For more resources, please visit stephenmclain.com. On the website, you can download the Leadership Growth Blueprint for Finance and Accounting Managers. You can use this guide to develop your leadership by focusing on communication, and growing and empowering your team.

You can now purchase a course to help you advance your career from financeleaderacademy.com. It's called Advance Your Finance and Accounting Career: Developing a Promotion Strategy that Sets You Apart.

View Details

This is 2023 and I believe this is the year we become bold in our career execution, our skills development, and our leadership growth. The last few years people have become hesitant due to the challenges we were facing so they did not take risk in their advancement or even in their own lives. We don’t know what will happen this year, but there is great opportunity out there to those willing to develop a plan and mindset to go get it. Be BOLD: Believe, Overcome, Leadership, and Decisive. Be bold in your planning and in the execution of your goals.

Episode outline

1. Take action in your career,
2. Have a written plan,
3. Be BOLD in 2023, and
4. Become a Finance Leader.

Please connect with me on:

1. Instagram: stephen.mclain
2. Twitter: smclainiii
3. Facebook: stephenmclainconsultant
4. LinkedIn: stephenjmclainiii

iPhone productivity tip video: Schedule Notifications

Wall Street Journal article: Why So Many Accountants Are Quitting

Email me about your thoughts on the article: comment@stephenmclain.com

For more resources, please visit stephenmclain.com. On the website, you can download the Leadership Growth Blueprint for Finance and Accounting Managers. You can use this guide to develop your leadership by focusing on communication, and growing and empowering your team.

You can now purchase a course to help you advance your career from financeleaderacademy.com. It's called Advance Your Finance and Accounting Career: Developing a Promotion Strategy that Sets You Apart.

View Details

We will be using the acronym BOLD to shape our plans for 2023. BOLD: Believe, Overcome, Leadership, and Decisive. Believe in yourself, Overcome obstacles, Grow your Leadership and Be decisive in your plans and opportunities.

BOLD: Believe, Overcome, Leadership, and Decisive.

Please connect with me on:

1. Instagram: stephen.mclain
2. Twitter: smclainiii
3. Facebook: stephenmclainconsultant
4. LinkedIn: stephenjmclainiii

For more resources, please visit stephenmclain.com. On the website, you can download the Leadership Growth Blueprint for Finance and Accounting Managers. You can use this guide to develop your leadership by focusing on communication, and growing and empowering your team.

You can now purchase a course to help you advance your career from financeleaderacademy.com. It's called Advance Your Finance and Accounting Career: Developing a Promotion Strategy that Sets You Apart.

View Details

As a Finance or Accounting professional have you ever been assigned to a project team or worked on a business case? Have you provided financial analysis or accounting advice regarding a high visibility project? These are great opportunities to develop and show off your skills. Additionally, you may get visibility with the executive team and other senior leaders. This week, I am encouraging you to seek out high visibility projects to showcase your skills and abilities, which will also help you grow your professional portfolio.

Episode outline:
1) Project teams are great opportunities,
2) What skills you need to bring,
3) Grow your network, and
4) Strengthen your professional foundation.

Please connect with me on:

1. Instagram: stephen.mclain
2. Twitter: smclainiii
3. Facebook: stephenmclainconsultant
4. LinkedIn: stephenjmclainiii

Consider joining The Finance Leader Podcast Community Facebook Group, where we can talk leadership and the other topics I present here on the podcast. https://www.facebook.com/groups/financeleaderpodcast This is a good time to jump in and start sharing ideas and thoughts about leadership so we can help each other.

For more resources, please visit stephenmclain.com. On the website, you can download the Leadership Growth Blueprint for Finance and Accounting Managers. You can use this guide to develop your leadership by focusing on communication, and growing and empowering your team.

You can now purchase a course to help you advance your career from financeleaderacademy.com. It's called Advance Your Finance and Accounting Career: Developing a Promotion Strategy that Sets You Apart.

View Details

Do you know how to enjoy your time off when you do take your vacation time? This is important so you can get mentally refreshed. You need a break – you need to clear your mind and ready yourself so you that you can tackle next year. 

Enjoy your time off:

1. Set boundaries,
2. Be guilt free for taking time off,
3. Do not think about what waits for you,
4. Enjoy the moment, and
5. Set yourself free.

Please connect with me on:

1. Instagram: stephen.mclain
2. Twitter: smclainiii
3. Facebook: stephenmclainconsultant
4. LinkedIn: stephenjmclainiii

For more resources, please visit stephenmclain.com. On the website, you can download the Leadership Growth Blueprint for Finance and Accounting Managers. You can use this guide to develop your leadership by focusing on communication, and growing and empowering your team.

You can now purchase a course to help you advance your career from financeleaderacademy.com. It's called Advance Your Finance and Accounting Career: Developing a Promotion Strategy that Sets You Apart.

View Details

Let’s wrap up 2022, but put off new ideas until next year. Enjoy your accomplishments, get some rest, enjoy your family, friends and colleagues, and put things in perspective.

Season 13 will debut on January 10th. We will be talking about our focus, priorities, and goals for 2023.

We are a primary source of inspiration and motivation for our team members. How we act and speak and make decisions serves to encourage, or even discourage, our team members as they tackle tough assignments and tasks. How we approach the work and adversity does have ripple effects on team productivity and morale. How can we do better, as leaders, to encourage our team members to be inspired, which then can translate into higher productivity, without being abusive?

The outline for the episode is:

1. Great leaders bring out the best in their team,
2. Let’s set a great example,
3. Set a realistic vision, and
4. Help others achieve their purpose and goals.

Please connect with me on:

1. Instagram: stephen.mclain
2. Twitter: smclainiii
3. Facebook: stephenmclainconsultant
4. LinkedIn: stephenjmclainiii

Consider joining The Finance Leader Podcast Community Facebook Group, where we can talk leadership and the other topics I present here on the podcast. https://www.facebook.com/groups/financeleaderpodcast This is a good time to jump in and start sharing ideas and thoughts about leadership so we can help each other.

For more resources, please visit stephenmclain.com. On the website, you can download the Leadership Growth Blueprint for Finance and Accounting Managers. You can use this guide to develop your leadership by focusing on communication, and growing and empowering your team.

You can now purchase a course to help you advance your career from financeleaderacademy.com. It's called Advance Your Finance and Accounting Career: Developing a Promotion Strategy that Sets You Apart.

View Details

To prepare for 2023, I want you to work on your confidence, to take more risk, and to understand your self-worth even more. What do you bring to the table? What makes you unique in our profession? What value do you bring to the organization?

Believe that you are important to your team and to your organization. Believe that you can make a difference. Believe that you can be a leader.

Please connect with me on:

1. Instagram: stephen.mclain
2. Twitter: smclainiii
3. Facebook: stephenmclainconsultant
4. LinkedIn: stephenjmclainiii

Consider joining The Finance Leader Podcast Community Facebook Group, where we can talk leadership and the other topics I present here on the podcast. https://www.facebook.com/groups/financeleaderpodcast This is a good time to jump in and start sharing ideas and thoughts about leadership so we can help each other.

For more resources, please visit stephenmclain.com. On the website, you can download the Leadership Growth Blueprint for Finance and Accounting Managers. You can use this guide to develop your leadership by focusing on communication, and growing and empowering your team.

You can now purchase a course to help you advance your career from financeleaderacademy.com. It's called Advance Your Finance and Accounting Career: Developing a Promotion Strategy that Sets You Apart.

View Details

Did you know that as a finance and accounting leader you can have a great, positive impact across your organization? Finance and Accounting professionals do more than just analysis and record financial transactions. We help lead change. We bring reality with the numbers. We advise with critical insights and help to shape and execute strategy. Leadership is the ability to communicate a vision that is easily understood by everyone and then…creating a pathway for your team and others to follow. Finance and accounting leadership is critical for an organization, so they apply numbers to strategy and to execution. How are you embracing the role of leader, and…do you yet realize the amazing impact you can have?

Episode outline:

1. Find relevant insights to help build the business,
2. Become a business advisor,
3. Close the communication gap between teams,
4. Transform and update our processes always, and
5. Exercise your leadership ability to bring positive change.

Please connect with me on:

1. Instagram: stephen.mclain
2. Twitter: smclainiii
3. Facebook: stephenmclainconsultant
4. LinkedIn: stephenjmclainiii

Consider joining The Finance Leader Podcast Community Facebook Group, where we can talk leadership and the other topics I present here on the podcast. https://www.facebook.com/groups/financeleaderpodcast This is a good time to jump in and start sharing ideas and thoughts about leadership so we can help each other.

For more resources, please visit stephenmclain.com. On the website, you can download the Leadership Growth Blueprint for Finance and Accounting Managers. You can use this guide to develop your leadership by focusing on communication, and growing and empowering your team.

You can now purchase a course to help you advance your career from financeleaderacademy.com. It's called Advance Your Finance and Accounting Career: Developing a Promotion Strategy that Sets You Apart.

View Details

Are you willing to take more risk to ensure you achieve what you want in your career? Or…are you playing it too safe? Taking risk is often a mindset issue where you can limit yourself and fear stepping out from your comfort zone. Get vulnerable, develop a plan and find the courage to go after what you want to move toward in your long-term goal. No one is going to hand it to you so you have to decide to take action to develop your career with the skills and experience you need to move forward. Decide today to go after it and achieve something amazing.

Episode outline:

1. Taking risk is about mindset,
2. Gamble on yourself, and
3. What can we change?

Please connect with me on:

1. Instagram: stephen.mclain
2. Twitter: smclainiii
3. Facebook: stephenmclainconsultant
4. LinkedIn: stephenjmclainiii

Consider joining The Finance Leader Podcast Community Facebook Group, where we can talk leadership and the other topics I present here on the podcast. https://www.facebook.com/groups/financeleaderpodcast This is a good time to jump in and start sharing ideas and thoughts about leadership so we can help each other.

For more resources, please visit stephenmclain.com. On the website, you can download the Leadership Growth Blueprint for Finance and Accounting Managers. You can use this guide to develop your leadership by focusing on communication, and growing and empowering your team.

You can now purchase a course to help you advance your career from financeleaderacademy.com. It's called Advance Your Finance and Accounting Career: Developing a Promotion Strategy that Sets You Apart.

View Details

Why did you choose to work in Finance and Accounting? Did you want to work with numbers? Did you think you would work mostly alone? Were you attracted to the leadership opportunities available? Was it something else or a combination of these? Whatever got you interested, I am urging you to ask yourself if you still maintain that passion you once had? Do you embrace and look forward to leading with the numbers every day? The Finance and accounting fields offer a great opportunity to career track to CEO of an organization.

Please connect with me on:

1. Instagram: stephen.mclain
2. Twitter: smclainiii
3. Facebook: stephenmclainconsultant
4. LinkedIn: stephenjmclainiii

Consider joining The Finance Leader Podcast Community Facebook Group, where we can talk leadership and the other topics I present here on the podcast. https://www.facebook.com/groups/financeleaderpodcast This is a good time to jump in and start sharing ideas and thoughts about leadership so we can help each other.

For more resources, please visit stephenmclain.com. On the website, you can download the Leadership Growth Blueprint for Finance and Accounting Managers. You can use this guide to develop your leadership by focusing on communication, and growing and empowering your team.

You can now purchase a course to help you advance your career from financeleaderacademy.com. It's called Advance Your Finance and Accounting Career: Developing a Promotion Strategy that Sets You Apart.

View Details

How productive are you during the day? Is your day filled with distractions? Do you have set templates and use your available tools to make your workday easier especially for routine tasks? Having a productive day begins with our mindset. Use the tools you have available to make your work day more productive. Develop systems for routine work. Protect your time and your team and focus on adding value where you can to make a positive impact across the organization. Let’s all have more productive days where we focus our energy and attention on more essential and the most urgent of our tasks.

Episode outline:

1. Have a plan each day,
2. Find efficiencies in every task,
3. Maximize your tools,
4. Protect your time as best you can, and
5. Add value to every task and project you work on.

Please connect with me on:

1. Instagram: stephen.mclain
2. Twitter: smclainiii
3. Facebook: stephenmclainconsultant
4. LinkedIn: stephenjmclainiii

Consider joining The Finance Leader Podcast Community Facebook Group, where we can talk leadership and the other topics I present here on the podcast. https://www.facebook.com/groups/financeleaderpodcast This is a good time to jump in and start sharing ideas and thoughts about leadership so we can help each other.

For more resources, please visit stephenmclain.com. On the website, you can download the Leadership Growth Blueprint for Finance and Accounting Managers. You can use this guide to develop your leadership by focusing on communication, and growing and empowering your team.

You can now purchase a course to help you advance your career from financeleaderacademy.com. It's called Advance Your Finance and Accounting Career: Developing a Promotion Strategy that Sets You Apart.

View Details

Are you facing a leadership challenge right now, or soon? Do you even know? Have you been complacent, or are you watching for the signs that change or a business challenge is imminent? When things are going well, it’s easier to lead, but when the business environment changes, it requires a more leadership emphasis from you. Be watchful for business and senior leadership changes and be ready to adapt and lead your team through the challenge, whatever it is.

Episode outline:

1. Acknowledge the problem,
2. Lead and take positive action,
3. Shield your team from everything toxic, and
4. Energize your team to help solve the problem.

Please connect with me on:

1. Instagram: stephen.mclain
2. Twitter: smclainiii
3. Facebook: stephenmclainconsultant
4. LinkedIn: stephenjmclainiii

Consider joining The Finance Leader Podcast Community Facebook Group, where we can talk leadership and the other topics I present here on the podcast. https://www.facebook.com/groups/financeleaderpodcast This is a good time to jump in and start sharing ideas and thoughts about leadership so we can help each other.

For more resources, please visit stephenmclain.com. On the website, you can download the Leadership Growth Blueprint for Finance and Accounting Managers. You can use this guide to develop your leadership by focusing on communication, and growing and empowering your team.

You can now purchase a course to help you advance your career from financeleaderacademy.com. It's called Advance Your Finance and Accounting Career: Developing a Promotion Strategy that Sets You Apart.

View Details

We all need a reminder to believe in ourselves especially when it gets tough, that is, when you face a challenge and then doubt tries to settle in. We are all in a battle to overcome beliefs about our abilities in our mind. Limiting beliefs can take over our mind AND our spirit at any time, which then affects our ability to take risk and seize opportunities.

Please connect with me:

1. Instagram: stephen.mclain
2. Twitter: smclainiii
3. Facebook: stephenmclainconsultant
4. LinkedIn: stephenjmclainiii

Consider joining The Finance Leader Podcast Community Facebook Group, where we can talk leadership and the other topics I present here on the podcast. https://www.facebook.com/groups/financeleaderpodcast This is a good time to jump in and start sharing ideas and thoughts about leadership so we can help each other.

For more resources, please visit stephenmclain.com. On the website, you can download the Leadership Growth Blueprint for Finance and Accounting Managers. You can use this guide to develop your leadership by focusing on communication, and growing and empowering your team.

You can now purchase a course to help you advance your career from financeleaderacademy.com. It's called Advance Your Finance and Accounting Career: Developing a Promotion Strategy that Sets You Apart.

View Details

Who you have in your inner circle matters. Who you have around you, and who you associate with regularly affects your mindset, how you approach life, your happiness, and the overall level of your mental, spiritual, and physical fitness. Who you let in your life matters, and it affects everything in your life.

Please connect with me:

1. Instagram: stephen.mclain
2. Twitter: smclainiii
3. Facebook: stephenmclainconsultant
4. LinkedIn: stephenjmclainiii

Consider joining The Finance Leader Podcast Community Facebook Group, where we can talk leadership and the other topics I present here on the podcast. https://www.facebook.com/groups/financeleaderpodcast This is a good time to jump in and start sharing ideas and thoughts about leadership so we can help each other.

For more resources, please visit stephenmclain.com. On the website, you can download the Leadership Growth Blueprint for Finance and Accounting Managers. You can use this guide to develop your leadership by focusing on communication, and growing and empowering your team.

You can now purchase a course to help you advance your career from financeleaderacademy.com. It's called Advance Your Finance and Accounting Career: Developing a Promotion Strategy that Sets You Apart.

View Details

If a crisis happened to you today, do you have a support system in place to help you through it? Who would you call? Who would help you? Having a support system in place is critical for surviving and overcoming an emergency.

Please connect with me:

1. Instagram: stephen.mclain
2. Twitter: smclainiii
3. Facebook: stephenmclainconsultant
4. LinkedIn: stephenjmclainiii

Consider joining The Finance Leader Podcast Community Facebook Group, where we can talk leadership and the other topics I present here on the podcast. https://www.facebook.com/groups/financeleaderpodcast This is a good time to jump in and start sharing ideas and thoughts about leadership so we can help each other.

For more resources, please visit stephenmclain.com. On the website, you can download the Leadership Growth Blueprint for Finance and Accounting Managers. You can use this guide to develop your leadership by focusing on communication, and growing and empowering your team.

You can now purchase a course to help you advance your career from financeleaderacademy.com. It's called Advance Your Finance and Accounting Career: Developing a Promotion Strategy that Sets You Apart.

View Details

Are you facing a challenge? If so, what are you doing to overcome that challenge? Does it require working with someone on a solution, or is it a challenge that you personally have to solve? Is it a mindset issue? Are you having trouble with a goal?

Please connect with me:

1. Instagram: stephen.mclain
2. Twitter: smclainiii
3. Facebook: stephenmclainconsultant
4. LinkedIn: stephenjmclainiii

Consider joining The Finance Leader Podcast Community Facebook Group, where we can talk leadership and the other topics I present here on the podcast. https://www.facebook.com/groups/financeleaderpodcast This is a good time to jump in and start sharing ideas and thoughts about leadership so we can help each other.

For more resources, please visit stephenmclain.com. On the website, you can download the Leadership Growth Blueprint for Finance and Accounting Managers. You can use this guide to develop your leadership by focusing on communication, and growing and empowering your team.

You can now purchase a course to help you advance your career from financeleaderacademy.com. It's called Advance Your Finance and Accounting Career: Developing a Promotion Strategy that Sets You Apart.

View Details

This week, I am sharing an encore replay from Season 9 - Episode 77: Five Pillars of Career Advancement for Finance and Accounting Professionals

What does it take to advance your career? There are many decisions and pathways you can take. There are lots of choices, but how do you prepare yourself for the best chance of advancing to senior leader roles? In this episode, I will highlight the five pillars of career advancement which can help you move in the right direction, so you have the best chance for achieving your dream role. And what do you when you approach an obstacle in your career advancement? Do you accept it or do you keep going?

Episode outline:

1. Build your professional foundation,
2. Ensure you have a growth mindset,
3. Develop your leadership skills,
4. Take risk, and
5. Always advocate for yourself.

Please connect with me:

1. Instagram: stephen.mclain
2. Twitter: smclainiii
3. Facebook: stephenmclainconsultant
4. LinkedIn: stephenjmclainiii

Consider joining The Finance Leader Podcast Community Facebook Group, where we can talk leadership and the other topics I present here on the podcast. https://www.facebook.com/groups/financeleaderpodcast This is a good time to jump in and start sharing ideas and thoughts about leadership so we can help each other.

For more resources, please visit stephenmclain.com. On the website, you can download the Leadership Growth Blueprint for Finance and Accounting Managers. You can use this guide to develop your leadership by focusing on communication, and growing and empowering your team.

You can now purchase a course to help you advance your career from financeleaderacademy.com. It's called Advance Your Finance and Accounting Career: Developing a Promotion Strategy that Sets You Apart.

View Details

I wanted to briefly talk about a trending topic that I have been seeing all over Twitter. You probably heard about it: Quiet Quitting. What does that mean? Well, it’s something that has been happening for a very long time, which is doing your job without probably doing any of the extras. Not going above and beyond. Just ensuring you are doing enough to keep your job.

Please connect with me on:

1. Instagram: stephen.mclain
2. Twitter: smclainiii
3. Facebook: stephenmclainconsultant
4. LinkedIn: stephenjmclainiii

Consider joining The Finance Leader Podcast Community Facebook Group, where we can talk leadership and the other topics I present here on the podcast. https://www.facebook.com/groups/financeleaderpodcast This is a good time to jump in and start sharing ideas and thoughts about leadership so we can help each other.

For more resources, please visit stephenmclain.com. On the website, you can download the Leadership Growth Blueprint for Finance and Accounting Managers. You can use this guide to develop your leadership by focusing on communication, and growing and empowering your team.

You can now purchase a course to help you advance your career from financeleaderacademy.com. It's called Advance Your Finance and Accounting Career: Developing a Promotion Strategy that Sets You Apart.

View Details

A successful budget development cycle begins with clearly communicated expectations and coherently executed leadership. You must partner with other leaders to minimize conflict, meet senior leader guidance, and deliver a budget plan that is on target and makes sense. Ensure you apply the strategy to the budget development process to prioritize and maximize the committed resources.

Episode outline:

1. Link the budget requirements to the strategy,
2. Communicate expectations early, clearly, and often,
3. Ensure your budgeting tools meet your needs,
4. Have a conflict resolution process in place, and
5. Develop an effective partnership across the company.

Please connect with me on:

1. Instagram: stephen.mclain
2. Twitter: smclainiii
3. Facebook: stephenmclainconsultant
4. LinkedIn: stephenjmclainiii

Consider joining The Finance Leader Podcast Community Facebook Group, where we can talk leadership and the other topics I present here on the podcast. https://www.facebook.com/groups/financeleaderpodcast This is a good time to jump in and start sharing ideas and thoughts about leadership so we can help each other.

For more resources, please visit stephenmclain.com. On the website, you can download the Leadership Growth Blueprint for Finance and Accounting Managers. You can use this guide to develop your leadership by focusing on communication, and growing and empowering your team.

You can now purchase a course to help you advance your career from financeleaderacademy.com. It's called Advance Your Finance and Accounting Career: Developing a Promotion Strategy that Sets You Apart.

View Details

As leaders in Finance and Accounting, we are asked to analyze problems constantly. Leaders solve the critical problems of the organization. We don’t let issues grow into bigger problems. The most difficult part of problem solving is to identify what the real problem is, followed by performing the analysis to develop viable options, and then deciding the solution which is best for the organization moving forward. It sounds easy, but it takes leadership to accept that a problem exists and to be able to commit resources to analyze it and correct it.

Episode outline:

1. Developing a problem-solving skill set,
2. Problem solving is a process,
3. Sound problem solving leads to better decision making, and
4. Be a leader in all problem solving and decision making.

Please connect with me on:

1. Instagram: stephen.mclain
2. Twitter: smclainiii
3. Facebook: stephenmclainconsultant
4. LinkedIn: stephenjmclainiii

Consider joining The Finance Leader Podcast Community Facebook Group, where we can talk leadership and the other topics I present here on the podcast. https://www.facebook.com/groups/financeleaderpodcast This is a good time to jump in and start sharing ideas and thoughts about leadership so we can help each other.

For more resources, please visit stephenmclain.com. On the website, you can download the Leadership Growth Blueprint for Finance and Accounting Managers. You can use this guide to develop your leadership by focusing on communication, and growing and empowering your team.

You can now purchase a course to help you advance your career from financeleaderacademy.com. It's called Advance Your Finance and Accounting Career: Developing a Promotion Strategy that Sets You Apart.

View Details

This week it’s all about embracing, adopting and using artificial intelligence in our finance and accounting processes. I expect the early adopters to gain a significant competitive advantage as they shift from waiting on data to guiding a system with real time data that solves problems and affects decisions earlier in the process. Earlier than we ever thought we could. It’s time to commit funds in our budgets for systems, hardware, training and even the right people on our teams as we transition to the future.

Episode outline:

1. Become open-minded so you learn how AI will help,
2. AI can create a competitive advantage,
3. Will lead to improved and more real-time processes, and
4. Commit funds to future technology and training.

Please connect with me on:

1. Instagram: stephen.mclain
2. Twitter: smclainiii
3. Facebook: stephenmclainconsultant
4. LinkedIn: stephenjmclainiii

Consider joining The Finance Leader Podcast Community Facebook Group, where we can talk leadership and the other topics I present here on the podcast. https://www.facebook.com/groups/financeleaderpodcast This is a good time to jump in and start sharing ideas and thoughts about leadership so we can help each other.

For more resources, please visit stephenmclain.com. On the website, you can download the Leadership Growth Blueprint for Finance and Accounting Managers. You can use this guide to develop your leadership by focusing on communication, and growing and empowering your team.

You can now purchase a course to help you advance your career from financeleaderacademy.com. It's called Advance Your Finance and Accounting Career: Developing a Promotion Strategy that Sets You Apart.

View Details

We work with data every day in finance and accounting. The data leads us to insights and relevant information. This is why it’s important that our data is clean AND validated. The way to useable information is to ensure we have good data, but do you know what that means, and can you spot bad data when it shows up in your analysis? Know the data you are working with to ensure it leads you to the correct conclusions in your financial analysis or accounting work. Also, if possible, always try to tell a story with the data.

Episode outline:

1. Ensure you have validated data,
2. Data leads to analysis which leads to useable insights,
3. Use leadership with your data analysis to make a difference, and
4. Use data to tell a story.

Please connect with me on:

1. Instagram: stephen.mclain
2. Twitter: smclainiii
3. Facebook: stephenmclainconsultant
4. LinkedIn: stephenjmclainiii

Consider joining The Finance Leader Podcast Community Facebook Group, where we can talk leadership and the other topics I present here on the podcast. https://www.facebook.com/groups/financeleaderpodcast This is a good time to jump in and start sharing ideas and thoughts about leadership so we can help each other.

For more resources, please visit stephenmclain.com. On the website, you can download the Leadership Growth Blueprint for Finance and Accounting Managers. You can use this guide to develop your leadership by focusing on communication, and growing and empowering your team.

You can now purchase a course to help you advance your career from financeleaderacademy.com. It's called Advance Your Finance and Accounting Career: Developing a Promotion Strategy that Sets You Apart.

View Details

Financial Planning and 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:

1. Is the business achieving the strategy,
2. How FP&A can add huge value,
3. Do they have the right tools,
4. Invest in your FP&A team, and
5. Where is FP&A going in the future?

Please connect with me on:

1. Instagram: stephen.mclain
2. Twitter: smclainiii
3. Facebook: stephenmclainconsultant
4. LinkedIn: stephenjmclainiii

Consider joining The Finance Leader Podcast Community Facebook Group, where we can talk leadership and the other topics I present here on the podcast. https://www.facebook.com/groups/financeleaderpodcast This is a good time to jump in and start sharing ideas and thoughts about leadership so we can help each other.

For more resources, please visit stephenmclain.com. On the website, you can download the Leadership Growth Blueprint for Finance and Accounting Managers. You can use this guide to develop your leadership by focusing on communication, and growing and empowering your team.

You can now purchase a course to help you advance your career from financeleaderacademy.com. It's called Advance Your Finance and Accounting Career: Developing a Promotion Strategy that Sets You Apart.

View Details

How do you want your team to interact with each other? Do you want to be all business all the time, more relaxed, or something else? As the leader, you set the tone for the team’s culture. The team’s culture determines how well everyone respects each other and works together. Don’t overlook the relationship of team culture and its overall performance.

Episode outline:

1. What is Team culture?
2. How team culture shapes output and productivity,
3. Your role as leader when it comes to culture,
4. Assessing your team’s culture, and
5. How you can adjust the culture

Please connect with me on:

1. Instagram: stephen.mclain
2. Twitter: smclainiii
3. Facebook: stephenmclainconsultant
4. LinkedIn: stephenjmclainiii

Consider joining The Finance Leader Podcast Community Facebook Group, where we can talk leadership and the other topics I present here on the podcast. https://www.facebook.com/groups/financeleaderpodcast This is a good time to jump in and start sharing ideas and thoughts about leadership so we can help each other.

For more resources, please visit stephenmclain.com. On the website, you can download the Leadership Growth Blueprint for Finance and Accounting Managers. You can use this guide to develop your leadership by focusing on communication, and growing and empowering your team.

You can now purchase a course to help you advance your career from financeleaderacademy.com. It's called Advance Your Finance and Accounting Career: Developing a Promotion Strategy that Sets You Apart.

View Details

Financial Analysts help grow the business by digging in to the how and the why to financial transactions to find patterns and insights. These patterns can help find a way to leverage your offers to increase sales. Additionally, costs can be saved by finding efficiencies within the expenses.

Episode outline:

1. Figure out the why and how regarding data around financial transactions,
2. Help to validate the strategy through the analysis of key metrics, and
3. Partner with senior leaders so they better understand their numbers.

Please connect with me on:

1. Instagram: stephen.mclain
2. Twitter: smclainiii
3. Facebook: stephenmclainconsultant
4. LinkedIn: stephenjmclainiii

Consider joining The Finance Leader Podcast Community Facebook Group, where we can talk leadership and the other topics I present here on the podcast. https://www.facebook.com/groups/financeleaderpodcast This is a good time to jump in and start sharing ideas and thoughts about leadership so we can help each other.

For more resources, please visit stephenmclain.com. On the website, you can download the Leadership Growth Blueprint for Finance and Accounting Managers. You can use this guide to develop your leadership by focusing on communication, and growing and empowering your team.

You can now purchase a course to help you advance your career from financeleaderacademy.com. It's called Advance Your Finance and Accounting Career: Developing a Promotion Strategy that Sets You Apart.

View Details

Leaders must be self-aware of their thoughts, actions, words and behaviors so they are constantly working to build trust and develop their teams. Self-aware leaders know what is appropriate and what isn’t appropriate. Emotionally intelligent leaders can read the room properly that leads to a positive outcome.

Episode outline:
1) The great leaders are emotionally intelligent,
2) Think before speaking or taking action, and
3) Read the room so you understand the tone and mood of any gathering.

Please connect with me on:

1. Instagram: stephen.mclain
2. Twitter: smclainiii
3. Facebook: stephenmclainconsultant
4. LinkedIn: stephenjmclainiii

Consider joining The Finance Leader Podcast Community Facebook Group, where we can talk leadership and the other topics I present here on the podcast. https://www.facebook.com/groups/financeleaderpodcast This is a good time to jump in and start sharing ideas and thoughts about leadership so we can help each other.

For more resources, please visit stephenmclain.com. On the website, you can download the Leadership Growth Blueprint for Finance and Accounting Managers. You can use this guide to develop your leadership by focusing on communication, and growing and empowering your team.

You can now purchase a course to help you advance your career from financeleaderacademy.com. It's called Advance Your Finance and Accounting Career: Developing a Promotion Strategy that Sets You Apart.

View Details

A habit is a routine behavior that determines our productivity level and our work ethic. Our habits are closely aligned with our mindset and how we approach challenges. Do we embrace wanting to achieve excellence or do you become complacent? Our success is a combination of mindset and habits, plus leadership. I hope that you practice great leadership as the most important habit of all.Episode outline:

1. Your habits determine your daily success,
2. What successful people do to build and reinforce good habits, and
3. The most important habit is practicing great leadership.

Please connect with me on:

1. Instagram: stephen.mclain
2. Twitter: smclainiii
3. Facebook: stephenmclainconsultant
4. LinkedIn: stephenjmclainiii

Consider joining The Finance Leader Podcast Community Facebook Group, where we can talk leadership and the other topics I present here on the podcast. https://www.facebook.com/groups/financeleaderpodcast This is a good time to jump in and start sharing ideas and thoughts about leadership so we can help each other.

For more resources, please visit stephenmclain.com. On the website, you can download the Leadership Growth Blueprint for Finance and Accounting Managers. You can use this guide to develop your leadership by focusing on communication, and growing and empowering your team.

You can now purchase a course to help you advance your career from financeleaderacademy.com. It's called Advance Your Finance and Accounting Career: Developing a Promotion Strategy that Sets You Apart.

View Details

Please enjoy this encore episode....You have assumed a new role at a new company. What are your first steps? What do you do first so you set yourself up for success? Those first few weeks can determine how well you know your role, and more importantly, who do you need to meet, what systems do you need to learn, and what are the details about the company’s culture. Your first actions in a new role will be critical to your success, so plan carefully and embrace learning and meeting new people.

Episode outline:

1. Embrace onboarding and ask questions,
2. Learn the culture and live it,
3. Know your manager’s priorities and their manager’s priorities,
4. Build your internal network, and
5. Build credibility immediately and add value.

==>> Link to Preview Course: Click here Or go to Finance Leader Academy, click Shop to find the course. Thank you!

Please connect with me on:

1. Instagram: stephen.mclain
2. Twitter: smclainiii
3. Facebook: stephenmclainconsultant
4. LinkedIn: stephenjmclainiii

Consider joining The Finance Leader Podcast Community Facebook Group, where we can talk leadership and the other topics I present here on the podcast. https://www.facebook.com/groups/financeleaderpodcast This is a good time to jump in and start sharing ideas and thoughts about leadership so we can help each other.

For more resources, please visit stephenmclain.com. On the website, you can download the Leadership Growth Blueprint for Finance and Accounting Managers. You can use this guide to develop your leadership by focusing on communication, and growing and empowering your team.

You can now purchase a course to help you advance your career from financeleaderacademy.com. It's called Advance Your Finance and Accounting Career: Developing a Promotion Strategy that Sets You Apart.

View Details

If you own a start-up or will be founding one soon, consider adding a finance leader to your team as soon as possible. You will have a teammate who can help you understand cash-flow and profitability from Day 1. They can help you instill financial discipline immediately and provide legitimacy for potential investors. A finance or accounting professional gives your team someone who can provide key advice on tax implications, cash burn rates, corporate structure, and adding value as you navigate a challenging marketplace and economy.

Episode outline:

1. Provide important finance leadership from Day 1,
2. Develop finance information systems that make sense,
3. Understand cash flow, measuring profitability, and publishing financial statements, and
4. Establishes more legitimacy for key stakeholders.

Please connect with me on:

1. Instagram: stephen.mclain
2. Twitter: smclainiii
3. Facebook: stephenmclainconsultant
4. LinkedIn: stephenjmclainiii

Consider joining The Finance Leader Podcast Community Facebook Group, where we can talk leadership and the other topics I present here on the podcast. https://www.facebook.com/groups/financeleaderpodcast This is a good time to jump in and start sharing ideas and thoughts about leadership so we can help each other.

For more resources, please visit stephenmclain.com. On the website, you can download the Leadership Growth Blueprint for Finance and Accounting Managers. You can use this guide to develop your leadership by focusing on communication, and growing and empowering your team.

You can now purchase a course to help you advance your career from financeleaderacademy.com. It's called Advance Your Finance and Accounting Career: Developing a Promotion Strategy that Sets You Apart.

View Details

As a leader, you will make many decisions. You will have choices to make. But how do you guard yourself against bias? How do you ensure fairness in opportunity and in how your team is treated? We must be aware of any bias we have both, conscious and subconscious, to ensure all have the opportunity if they do the hard work to improve themselves and to be ready for the next level. Further, we need to check our bias in all problem-solving activities and projects.

Episode outline:

1. Building trust is the cornerstone of leadership,
2. Root causes of our bias,
3. Confirmation bias reinforces our own position, and
4. How do we overcome bias?

Please connect with me on:

1. Instagram: stephen.mclain
2. Twitter: smclainiii
3. Facebook: stephenmclainconsultant
4. LinkedIn: stephenjmclainiii

Consider joining The Finance Leader Podcast Community Facebook Group, where we can talk leadership and the other topics I present here on the podcast. https://www.facebook.com/groups/financeleaderpodcast This is a good time to jump in and start sharing ideas and thoughts about leadership so we can help each other.

For more resources, please visit stephenmclain.com. On the website, you can download the Leadership Growth Blueprint for Finance and Accounting Managers. You can use this guide to develop your leadership by focusing on communication, and growing and empowering your team.

You can now purchase a course to help you advance your career from financeleaderacademy.com. It's called Advance Your Finance and Accounting Career: Developing a Promotion Strategy that Sets You Apart.

View Details

Are you on track for a promotion? What does it take to be promoted from individual contributor to manager? You must show potential for greater responsibility. You need a combination of mature soft skills, good character and high emotional intelligence, deliver results every time, and be able to treat people fairly without bias. If you can prioritize your actions correctly, clearly communicate a vision, and follow through with incredible results, you will be in line for promotion to manager in no time.

Episode outline:

1. Be of good character, strong ethics, and have a never-quit attitude,
2. Over deliver on results,
3. Develop the key soft skills,
4. Know how to prioritize, and
5. Show potential for greater responsibility.

Please connect with me on:

1. Instagram: stephen.mclain
2. Twitter: smclainiii
3. Facebook: stephenmclainconsultant
4. LinkedIn: stephenjmclainiii

Consider joining The Finance Leader Podcast Community Facebook Group, where we can talk leadership and the other topics I present here on the podcast. https://www.facebook.com/groups/financeleaderpodcast This is a good time to jump in and start sharing ideas and thoughts about leadership so we can help each other.

For more resources, please visit stephenmclain.com. On the website, you can download the Leadership Growth Blueprint for Finance and Accounting Managers. You can use this guide to develop your leadership by focusing on communication, and growing and empowering your team.

You can now purchase a course to help you advance your career from financeleaderacademy.com. It's called Advance Your Finance and Accounting Career: Developing a Promotion Strategy that Sets You Apart.

View Details

Your long-term success and how you feel about yourself are directly affected by your self-worth and your confidence level. What you believe in yourself affects your ability to take risk and feel confident about what roles and challenges may be next for you. Your mindset is powerful, and this requires a daily exercise of self-care to strengthen yourself against the adversity you will face and to give you confidence to go after your long-term goal.

Episode outline:
1) Build a healthy approach in how we see ourselves,
2) Know your self-worth,
3) Practice great self-care, and
4) Taking risk is key to growth and opportunity.

Please connect with me on:

1. Instagram: stephen.mclain
2. Twitter: smclainiii
3. Facebook: stephenmclainconsultant
4. LinkedIn: stephenjmclainiii

Consider joining The Finance Leader Podcast Community Facebook Group, where we can talk leadership and the other topics I present here on the podcast. https://www.facebook.com/groups/financeleaderpodcast This is a good time to jump in and start sharing ideas and thoughts about leadership so we can help each other.

For more resources, please visit stephenmclain.com. On the website, you can download the Leadership Growth Blueprint for Finance and Accounting Managers. You can use this guide to develop your leadership by focusing on communication, and growing and empowering your team.

You can now purchase a course to help you advance your career from financeleaderacademy.com. It's called Advance Your Finance and Accounting Career: Developing a Promotion Strategy that Sets You Apart.

View Details

As a Finance or Accounting professional have you ever been assigned to a project team or worked on a business case? Have you provided financial analysis or accounting advice regarding a high visibility project? These are great opportunities to develop and show off your skills. Additionally, you may get visibility with the executive team and other senior leaders. This week, I am encouraging you to seek out high visibility projects to showcase your skills and abilities, which will also help you grow your professional portfolio.

Episode outline:
1) Project teams are great opportunities,
2) What skills you need to bring,
3) Grow your network, and
4) Strengthen your professional foundation.

Please connect with me on:

1. Instagram: stephen.mclain
2. Twitter: smclainiii
3. Facebook: stephenmclainconsultant
4. LinkedIn: stephenjmclainiii

Consider joining The Finance Leader Podcast Community Facebook Group, where we can talk leadership and the other topics I present here on the podcast. https://www.facebook.com/groups/financeleaderpodcast This is a good time to jump in and start sharing ideas and thoughts about leadership so we can help each other.

For more resources, please visit stephenmclain.com. On the website, you can download the Leadership Growth Blueprint for Finance and Accounting Managers. You can use this guide to develop your leadership by focusing on communication, and growing and empowering your team.

You can now purchase a course to help you advance your career from financeleaderacademy.com. It's called Advance Your Finance and Accounting Career: Developing a Promotion Strategy that Sets You Apart.

View Details

Leaders are a primary source of inspiration and motivation for our team members. How we act and speak and make decisions serves to encourage, or even discourage, our team members as they tackle tough assignments and tasks. How we approach the work and adversity does have ripple effects on team productivity and morale. How can we do better, as leaders, to encourage our team members to be inspired, which then can translate into higher productivity, without being abusive?

Episode outline:

1. Great leaders bring out the best in their team,
2. Let’s set a great example,
3. Set a realistic vision, and
4. Help others achieve their purpose and goals.

Please connect with me on:

1. Instagram: stephen.mclain
2. Twitter: smclainiii
3. Facebook: stephenmclainconsultant
4. LinkedIn: stephenjmclainiii

Consider joining The Finance Leader Podcast Community Facebook Group, where we can talk leadership and the other topics I present here on the podcast. https://www.facebook.com/groups/financeleaderpodcast This is a good time to jump in and start sharing ideas and thoughts about leadership so we can help each other.

For more resources, please visit stephenmclain.com. On the website, you can download the Leadership Growth Blueprint for Finance and Accounting Managers. You can use this guide to develop your leadership by focusing on communication, and growing and empowering your team.

You can now purchase a course to help you advance your career from financeleaderacademy.com. It's called Advance Your Finance and Accounting Career: Developing a Promotion Strategy that Sets You Apart.

View Details

Should you earn a graduate degree? As a Finance and Accounting professional, a graduate degree will strengthen and round out your professional foundation and help to give you credibility as an expert in the field, which will serve to gain you respect. Further, earning a graduate degree can open additional opportunities for you to advance your career and could increase your earnings potential. Let’s address if a graduate degree is the right career move for you.

Episode outline:
1) Graduate degree trends from the field,
2) Is earning a graduate degree for me,
3) Which degree should I pursue, and
4) How should I plan for it?

Please connect with me on:

1. Instagram: stephen.mclain
2. Twitter: smclainiii
3. Facebook: stephenmclainconsultant
4. LinkedIn: stephenjmclainiii

Consider joining The Finance Leader Podcast Community Facebook Group, where we can talk leadership and the other topics I present here on the podcast. https://www.facebook.com/groups/financeleaderpodcast This is a good time to jump in and start sharing ideas and thoughts about leadership so we can help each other.

For more resources, please visit stephenmclain.com. On the website, you can download the Leadership Growth Blueprint for Finance and Accounting Managers. You can use this guide to develop your leadership by focusing on communication, and growing and empowering your team.

You can now purchase a course to help you advance your career from financeleaderacademy.com. It's called Advance Your Finance and Accounting Career: Developing a Promotion Strategy that Sets You Apart.

View Details

Did you know that business social skills are equally important as your technical and other soft skills? How you act socially can determine your next opportunity. How you conduct yourself in a public situation such as a meeting or at an after-work event or even on a project team can bring you closer or take you away from advancing in your career. How do you navigate these often-complicated situations? Be aware that your actions, facial expressions and even the very words you choose can make others pass judgment on your favorability.

Episode outline:

1. Be respectful of others,
2. Reading the room,
3. Let’s talk about a few key social skills: Authenticity, Approachability, Be present, Empathy, and Collaboration, and
4. Refine and improve your executive presence.

Please connect with me on:

1. Instagram: stephen.mclain
2. Twitter: smclainiii
3. Facebook: stephenmclainconsultant
4. LinkedIn: stephenjmclainiii

Consider joining The Finance Leader Podcast Community Facebook Group, where we can talk leadership and the other topics I present here on the podcast. https://www.facebook.com/groups/financeleaderpodcast This is a good time to jump in and start sharing ideas and thoughts about leadership so we can help each other.

For more resources, please visit stephenmclain.com. On the website, you can download the Leadership Growth Blueprint for Finance and Accounting Managers. You can use this guide to develop your leadership by focusing on communication, and growing and empowering your team.

You can now purchase a course to help you advance your career from financeleaderacademy.com. It's called Advance Your Finance and Accounting Career: Developing a Promotion Strategy that Sets You Apart.

View Details

Learning to be an effective leader will set you apart positively in the eyes of the senior leaders and executives you work with and will help you advance in your career. We are already expected to be technical experts in our field, so learn leadership to give you the edge you need to advance.

Episode outline:

1. Leadership starts with our mindset,
2. Our personal character is key,
3. We must lead and influence necessary change, and
4. A few areas we can positively change.

Please connect with me on:

• Instagram: stephen.mclain
• Twitter: smclainiii
• Facebook: stephenmclainconsultant
• LinkedIn: stephenjmclainiii

Consider joining The Finance Leader Podcast Community Facebook Group, where we can talk leadership and the other topics I present here on the podcast. https://www.facebook.com/groups/financeleaderpodcast This is a good time to jump in and start sharing ideas and thoughts about leadership so we can help each other.

For more resources, please visit stephenmclain.com. On the website, you can download the Leadership Growth Blueprint for Finance and Accounting Managers. You can use this guide to develop your leadership by focusing on communication, and growing and empowering your team.

You can now purchase a course to help you advance your career from financeleaderacademy.com. It's called Advance Your Finance and Accounting Career: Developing a Promotion Strategy that Sets You Apart.

View Details

When Finance and Accounting professionals combine their technical knowledge and skills with leadership, we will see an amazing transformation in every organization. Successful Finance and Accounting Leaders skew to the strategic and learn how to positively influence and advise senior leaders, so they help deliver the strategy. An effective leader works to empower their team, to develop influence to bring positive change, and will work to find a solution when financial expectations have not been met. Leading during adversity is the real challenge.

Episode outline:
1) Leaders skew toward the strategic,
2) Combine Leadership with finance and accounting technical expertise,
3) Use leadership when financial expectations fall short, and
4) Leadership tools to use every day.

Please connect with me on:

1. Instagram: stephen.mclain
2. Twitter: smclainiii
3. Facebook: stephenmclainconsultant
4. LinkedIn: stephenjmclainiii

Consider joining The Finance Leader Podcast Community Facebook Group, where we can talk leadership and the other topics I present here on the podcast. https://www.facebook.com/groups/financeleaderpodcast This is a good time to jump in and start sharing ideas and thoughts about leadership so we can help each other.

For more resources, please visit stephenmclain.com. On the website, you can download the Leadership Growth Blueprint for Finance and Accounting Managers. You can use this guide to develop your leadership by focusing on communication, and growing and empowering your team.

You can now purchase a course to help you advance your career from financeleaderacademy.com. It's called Advance Your Finance and Accounting Career: Developing a Promotion Strategy that Sets You Apart.

View Details

Please enjoy this encore episode from Season 7 - Episode 62 - What Leaders Do.

The most important responsibility leaders have is to grow other leaders. The first task a great leader will do is to build trust and that begins with our own actions, our attitude, and our behavior. We often get overwhelmed with the tasks, but I want you to shift from a task-focus to a people-focus leadership style. Lead and set a great example, build trust, and empower your team to create an incredible environment for your team to grow.

I use the following outline during the episode:

1. Build trust,
2. Provide clarity within the team,
3. Develop others, and
4. Let’s talk about a few leaders tools we have

Please connect with me on:

1. Instagram: stephen.mclain
2. Twitter: smclainiii
3. Facebook: stephenmclainconsultant
4. LinkedIn: stephenjmclainiii

Consider joining The Finance Leader Podcast Community Facebook Group, where we can talk leadership and the other topics I present here on the podcast. https://www.facebook.com/groups/financeleaderpodcast This is a good time to jump in and start sharing ideas and thoughts about leadership so we can help each other.

For more resources, please visit stephenmclain.com. On the website, you can download the Leadership Growth Blueprint for Finance and Accounting Managers. You can use this guide to develop your leadership by focusing on communication, and growing and empowering your team.

You can now purchase a course to help you advance your career from financeleaderacademy.com. It's called Advance Your Finance and Accounting Career: Developing a Promotion Strategy that Sets You Apart.

View Details

Please enjoy this encore episode from Season 8 - Episode 64 - The CFO Mindset.

The Role of Chief Financial Officer requires a different mindset, a different world view, and a perspective that helps you see the organization differently. The CFO must be forward thinking and must never quit.

The following outline is used during the episode:

1. The qualities of the successful c suite executive,
2. You must pivot your skillset, mindset, and perspective,
3. Embrace change and embrace adversity,
4. You must set the right example every day to establish a high standard, and
5. You must own your career and your goal accomplishment process.

Please connect with me on:

1. Instagram: stephen.mclain
2. Twitter: smclainiii
3. Facebook: stephenmclainconsultant
4. LinkedIn: stephenjmclainiii

Consider joining The Finance Leader Podcast Community Facebook Group, where we can talk leadership and the other topics I present here on the podcast. https://www.facebook.com/groups/financeleaderpodcast This is a good time to jump in and start sharing ideas and thoughts about leadership so we can help each other.

For more resources, please visit stephenmclain.com. On the website, you can download the Leadership Growth Blueprint for Finance and Accounting Managers. You can use this guide to develop your leadership by focusing on communication, and growing and empowering your team.

You can now purchase a course to help you advance your career from financeleaderacademy.com. It's called Advance Your Finance and Accounting Career: Developing a Promotion Strategy that Sets You Apart.

View Details

Please enjoy this encore episode from Season 7 - Episode 57 - Own Your Career.

What happens during your career journey mostly rests upon decisions you make along with your risk comfort level. Are you planning out your career moves or are you waiting on someone else to give you an opportunity? No one is going to seek you out to hand you what you need to achieve your goals and advance your career.

Episode outline:

1. You are the only person who will care about your career,
2. Seek out opportunities to stand out,
3. Embrace taking risk,
4. Adopt a growth mindset, and
5. Have a written plan.

Please connect with me on:

1. Instagram: stephen.mclain
2. Twitter: smclainiii
3. Facebook: stephenmclainconsultant
4. LinkedIn: stephenjmclainiii

Consider joining The Finance Leader Podcast Community Facebook Group, where we can talk leadership and the other topics I present here on the podcast. https://www.facebook.com/groups/financeleaderpodcast This is a good time to jump in and start sharing ideas and thoughts about leadership so we can help each other.

For more resources, please visit stephenmclain.com. On the website, you can download the Leadership Growth Blueprint for Finance and Accounting Managers. You can use this guide to develop your leadership by focusing on communication, and growing and empowering your team.

You can now purchase a course to help you advance your career from financeleaderacademy.com. It's called Advance Your Finance and Accounting Career: Developing a Promotion Strategy that Sets You Apart.

View Details

Please enjoy this encore episode. I am working on Season 10, which well debut on April 12.

We are in the new year, and I believe that 2022 will be your best year to date. This will be a time to develop a plan of action for what’s important to you that includes your career AND your personal life. It can be the blueprint for setting your personal priorities and ensuring you don’t forget the important events in your life AND that you live, grow, and thrive with no regrets.

Episode outline:

1. Setting the right priorities for your life,
2. Adopt winning habits including a self-care routine,
3. Embrace a growth mindset,
4. Prepare for challenges,
5. Write out and continually update your goals, and
6. Synchronize your plan with the people in your life.

Please connect with me on:

1. Instagram: stephen.mclain
2. Twitter: smclainiii
3. Facebook: stephenmclainconsultant
4. LinkedIn: stephenjmclainiii

Consider joining The Finance Leader Podcast Community Facebook Group, where we can talk leadership and the other topics I present here on the podcast. https://www.facebook.com/groups/financeleaderpodcast This is a good time to jump in and start sharing ideas and thoughts about leadership so we can help each other.

For more resources, please visit stephenmclain.com. On the website, you can download the Leadership Growth Blueprint for Finance and Accounting Managers. You can use this guide to develop your leadership by focusing on communication, and growing and empowering your team.

You can now purchase a course to help you advance your career from financeleaderacademy.com. It's called Advance Your Finance and Accounting Career: Developing a Promotion Strategy that Sets You Apart.

View Details

You need to be advocating for yourself when it comes to career opportunities, for raises, for promotions, to be on high visibility projects, for time off, for the right boundaries, and the list goes on. I am particularly speaking to the group of Finance and Accounting professionals who are truly dedicated and don’t ask for much in return. It’s time that you get rewarded for your hard work and you need to take action for these to happen. Start advocating for yourself and for your advancement today. No more accepting the first no you hear when it comes to asking for something beneficial for you. Advocate for key opportunities and advocate for yourself.

Episode outline:

1. Advocate for yourself, because no one else will,
2. You must clearly communicate your needs,
3. Set healthy boundaries and expectations, and
4. Own your career and your future.

Please connect with me:

1. Instagram: stephen.mclain
2. Twitter: smclainiii
3. Facebook: stephenmclainconsultant
4. LinkedIn: stephenjmclainiii

Consider joining The Finance Leader Podcast Community Facebook Group, where we can talk leadership and the other topics I present here on the podcast. https://www.facebook.com/groups/financeleaderpodcast This is a good time to jump in and start sharing ideas and thoughts about leadership so we can help each other.

For more resources, please visit stephenmclain.com. On the website, you can download the Leadership Growth Blueprint for Finance and Accounting Managers. You can use this guide to develop your leadership by focusing on communication, and growing and empowering your team.

You can now purchase a course to help you advance your career from financeleaderacademy.com. It's called Advance Your Finance and Accounting Career: Developing a Promotion Strategy that Sets You Apart.

View Details

Can your team members thrive in their current work environment? As leaders, we have standards to uphold, tasks to get done, and a strategy to execute, but do our team members believe they are treated well, are their voices heard, and do they have opportunities for growth and development?

How much time do you invest in your team members? When you lead a team, you have more responsibility than only completing tasks on a list, you have people who are looking to you to help them accomplish their goals. The greatest responsibility we have is to grow other leaders, and we do that by creating an environment of support, learning, and development.

Episode outline:

1. Are your team members thriving?
2. What would your team say about you in an anonymous survey?
3. Are you helping your team members to grow and win? and
4. What can you do to create a more positive environment?

Please connect with me:

1. Instagram: stephen.mclain
2. Twitter: smclainiii
3. Facebook: stephenmclainconsultant
4. LinkedIn: stephenjmclainiii

Consider joining The Finance Leader Podcast Community Facebook Group, where we can talk leadership and the other topics I present here on the podcast. https://www.facebook.com/groups/financeleaderpodcast This is a good time to jump in and start sharing ideas and thoughts about leadership so we can help each other.

For more resources, please visit stephenmclain.com. On the website, you can download the Leadership Growth Blueprint for Finance and Accounting Managers. You can use this guide to develop your leadership by focusing on communication, and growing and empowering your team.

You can now purchase a course to help you advance your career from financeleaderacademy.com. It's called Advance Your Finance and Accounting Career: Developing a Promotion Strategy that Sets You Apart.

View Details

The greatest responsibility we have is to grow other leaders so I want to encourage you to share your leadership tips by publishing them to reach a greater audience. Never stop trying to positively influence the next generation of leaders.

Episode outline:

1. Growing others is our greatest responsibility,
2. Share so you can positively influence,
3. Publishing helps you grow as a leader, and
4. Methods of sharing and publishing.

Please connect with me:

1. Instagram: stephen.mclain
2. Twitter: smclainiii
3. Facebook: stephenmclainconsultant
4. LinkedIn: stephenjmclainiii

Consider joining The Finance Leader Podcast Community Facebook Group, where we can talk leadership and the other topics I present here on the podcast. https://www.facebook.com/groups/financeleaderpodcast This is a good time to jump in and start sharing ideas and thoughts about leadership so we can help each other.

For more resources, please visit stephenmclain.com. On the website, you can download the Leadership Growth Blueprint for Finance and Accounting Managers. You can use this guide to develop your leadership by focusing on communication, and growing and empowering your team.

You can now purchase a course to help you advance your career from financeleaderacademy.com. It's called Advance Your Finance and Accounting Career: Developing a Promotion Strategy that Sets You Apart.

View Details

What does it take to advance your career? There are many decisions and pathways you can take. There are lots of choices, but how do you prepare yourself for the best chance of advancing to senior leader roles? In this episode, I will highlight the five pillars of career advancement which can help you move in the right direction, so you have the best chance for achieving your dream role. And what do you when you approach an obstacle in your career advancement? Do you accept it or do you keep going?

Episode outline:

1. Build your professional foundation,
2. Ensure you have a growth mindset,
3. Develop your leadership skills,
4. Take risk, and
5. Always advocate for yourself.

Please connect with me:

1. Instagram: stephen.mclain
2. Twitter: smclainiii
3. Facebook: stephenmclainconsultant
4. LinkedIn: stephenjmclainiii

Consider joining The Finance Leader Podcast Community Facebook Group, where we can talk leadership and the other topics I present here on the podcast. https://www.facebook.com/groups/financeleaderpodcast This is a good time to jump in and start sharing ideas and thoughts about leadership so we can help each other.

For more resources, please visit stephenmclain.com. On the website, you can download the Leadership Growth Blueprint for Finance and Accounting Managers. You can use this guide to develop your leadership by focusing on communication, and growing and empowering your team.

You can now purchase a course to help you advance your career from financeleaderacademy.com. It's called Advance Your Finance and Accounting Career: Developing a Promotion Strategy that Sets You Apart.

View Details

You may have a dream for what you want to accomplish, but that dream can only be realized if you have a written plan that makes sense. A written plan that accounts for more than what your organization is asking you to do. A well thought out written plan is the key to accomplishing your long-term goal and your dreams.

Episode outline:

1. Our Individual Development Plan is a commitment to ourselves,
2. Critical components of the IDP often overlooked,
3. An effective IDP goes beyond what your organization is asking you to do,
4. Your IDP must be assessed and updated often, and
5. Ensure you include learning leadership in your plan.

Please connect with me:

1. Instagram: stephen.mclain
2. Twitter: smclainiii
3. Facebook: stephenmclainconsultant
4. LinkedIn: stephenjmclainiii

Consider joining The Finance Leader Podcast Community Facebook Group, where we can talk leadership and the other topics I present here on the podcast. https://www.facebook.com/groups/financeleaderpodcast This is a good time to jump in and start sharing ideas and thoughts about leadership so we can help each other.

For more resources, please visit stephenmclain.com. On the website, you can download the Leadership Growth Blueprint for Finance and Accounting Managers. You can use this guide to develop your leadership by focusing on communication, and growing and empowering your team.

You can now purchase a course to help you advance your career from financeleaderacademy.com. It's called Advance Your Finance and Accounting Career: Developing a Promotion Strategy that Sets You Apart.

View Details

Our habits are closely aligned with our mindset, and how we approach challenges. Do we embrace wanting to achieve excellence or do you become complacent? Our success is a combination of mindset and habits, plus leadership. I hope that you practice great leadership as the most important habit of all.

Episode outline:

1. Your habits determine your daily success,
2. What successful people do to build and reinforce good habits, and
3. The most important habit is practicing great leadership.

Please connect with me:

1. Instagram: stephen.mclain
2. Twitter: smclainiii
3. Facebook: stephenmclainconsultant
4. LinkedIn: stephenjmclainiii

Consider joining The Finance Leader Podcast Community Facebook Group, where we can talk leadership and the other topics I present here on the podcast. https://www.facebook.com/groups/financeleaderpodcast This is a good time to jump in and start sharing ideas and thoughts about leadership so we can help each other.

For more resources, please visit stephenmclain.com. On the website, you can download the Leadership Growth Blueprint for Finance and Accounting Managers. You can use this guide to develop your leadership by focusing on communication, and growing and empowering your team.

You can now purchase a course to help you advance your career from financeleaderacademy.com. It's called Advance Your Finance and Accounting Career: Developing a Promotion Strategy that Sets You Apart.

View Details

You have assumed a new role at a new company. What are your first steps? What do you do first so you set yourself up for success? Those first few weeks can determine how well you know your role, and more importantly, who do you need to meet, what systems do you need to learn, and what are the details about the company’s culture. Your first actions in a new role will be critical to your success, so plan carefully and embrace learning and meeting new people.

Episode outline:

1. Embrace onboarding and ask questions,
2. Learn the culture and live it,
3. Know your manager’s priorities and their manager’s priorities,
4. Build your internal network, and
5. Build credibility immediately and add value.

Please connect with me:

1. Instagram: stephen.mclain
2. Twitter: smclainiii
3. Facebook: stephenmclainconsultant
4. LinkedIn: stephenjmclainiii

Consider joining The Finance Leader Podcast Community Facebook Group, where we can talk leadership and the other topics I present here on the podcast. https://www.facebook.com/groups/financeleaderpodcast This is a good time to jump in and start sharing ideas and thoughts about leadership so we can help each other.

For more resources, please visit stephenmclain.com. On the website, you can download the Leadership Growth Blueprint for Finance and Accounting Managers. You can use this guide to develop your leadership by focusing on communication, and growing and empowering your team.

You can now purchase a course to help you advance your career from financeleaderacademy.com. It's called Advance Your Finance and Accounting Career: Developing a Promotion Strategy that Sets You Apart.

View Details

You need to stay current with what is happening in the Finance and Accounting fields so that you can address your skills gap to remain competitive. I will continue to recommend that you learn leadership since that will remain critical to advancing your career. The nature of work is changing, and that means we have to change also.

Episode outline:

1. What the future is,
2. Identify and grow your skills gap,
3. Career trends for 2022, and
4. Learning leadership will set you apart.

Please email me at contact@stephenmclain.com if you have any best practices with accounting for blockchain or crypto. I will give credit in the podcast for all submissions. Thank you!

Please connect with me:

1. Instagram: stephen.mclain
2. Twitter: smclainiii
3. Facebook: stephenmclainconsultant
4. LinkedIn: stephenjmclainiii

Consider joining The Finance Leader Podcast Community Facebook Group, where we can talk leadership and the other topics I present here on the podcast. https://www.facebook.com/groups/financeleaderpodcast This is a good time to jump in and start sharing ideas and thoughts about leadership so we can help each other.

For more resources, please visit stephenmclain.com. On the website, you can download the Leadership Growth Blueprint for Finance and Accounting Managers. You can use this guide to develop your leadership by focusing on communication, and growing and empowering your team.

You can now purchase a course to help you advance your career from financeleaderacademy.com. It's called Advance Your Finance and Accounting Career: Developing a Promotion Strategy that Sets You Apart.

View Details

As a leader, taking time to capture your thoughts and ideas is critical to developing a better work-flow for yourself and your team, and to explore your entire life. Keeping a journal is a great way to deep dive some ideas or other areas of your leadership and life to find areas that need to be improved. I recommend setting aside time to think and to write down those thoughts to help you gain clarity. Not only will you be able to capture your best ideas but keeping a journal can be a critical component to your overall self-care plan.

Episode outline:

1. Capture your best ideas at the ideal time,
2. Helps your long-term focus and goal accomplishment,
3. A critical part of a robust self-care plan, and
4. How to maintain momentum in 2022.

Please connect with me:

1. Instagram: stephen.mclain
2. Twitter: smclainiii
3. Facebook: stephenmclainconsultant
4. LinkedIn: stephenjmclainiii

Consider joining The Finance Leader Podcast Community Facebook Group, where we can talk leadership and the other topics I present here on the podcast. https://www.facebook.com/groups/financeleaderpodcast This is a good time to jump in and start sharing ideas and thoughts about leadership so we can help each other.

For more resources, please visit stephenmclain.com. On the website, you can download the Leadership Growth Blueprint for Finance and Accounting Managers. You can use this guide to develop your leadership by focusing on communication, and growing and empowering your team.

You can now purchase a course to help you advance your career from financeleaderacademy.com. It's called Advance Your Finance and Accounting Career: Developing a Promotion Strategy that Sets You Apart.

View Details

We are in the new year, and I believe that 2022 will be your best year to date. This will be a time to develop a plan of action for what’s important to you that includes your career AND your personal life. It can be the blueprint for setting your personal priorities and ensuring you don’t forget the important events in your life AND that you live, grow, and thrive with no regrets.

Episode outline:

1. Setting the right priorities for your life,
2. Adopt winning habits including a self-care routine,
3. Embrace a growth mindset,
4. Prepare for challenges,
5. Write out and continually update your goals, and
6. Synchronize your plan with the people in your life.

Please connect with me on:

1. Instagram: stephen.mclain
2. Twitter: smclainiii
3. Facebook: stephenmclainconsultant
4. LinkedIn: stephenjmclainiii

Consider joining The Finance Leader Podcast Community Facebook Group, where we can talk leadership and the other topics I present here on the podcast. https://www.facebook.com/groups/financeleaderpodcast This is a good time to jump in and start sharing ideas and thoughts about leadership so we can help each other.

For more resources, please visit stephenmclain.com. On the website, you can download the Leadership Growth Blueprint for Finance and Accounting Managers. You can use this guide to develop your leadership by focusing on communication, and growing and empowering your team.

You can now purchase a course to help you advance your career from financeleaderacademy.com. It's called Advance Your Finance and Accounting Career: Developing a Promotion Strategy that Sets You Apart.

View Details

As we move into the new year, I want you to resist making New Year’s Resolutions. They are whimsical, short-lived illusions that often result in failure instead of real results. What we need to do is to develop a plan of action to improve our chance of success. We will write out realistic goals with a timeline. The key is written goals.

In the last few weeks, I have asked you to do some preliminary work to prepare for planning out your 2022 plan of action. I have asked you to identify what’s important, what milestones that will occur next year, what challenges you might face, and then to prioritize your actions.

Please connect with me on:

1. Instagram: stephen.mclain
2. Twitter: smclainiii
3. Facebook: stephenmclainconsultant
4. LinkedIn: stephenjmclainiii

Consider joining The Finance Leader Podcast Community Facebook Group, where we can talk leadership and the other topics I present here on the podcast. https://www.facebook.com/groups/financeleaderpodcast This is a good time to jump in and start sharing ideas and thoughts about leadership so we can help each other.

For more resources, please visit stephenmclain.com. On the website, you can download the Leadership Growth Blueprint for Finance and Accounting Managers. You can use this guide to develop your leadership by focusing on communication, and growing and empowering your team.

You can now purchase a course to help you advance your career from financeleaderacademy.com. It's called Advance Your Finance and Accounting Career: Developing a Promotion Strategy that Sets You Apart.

View Details

Build hope into your daily activities. Tomorrow will be a better day for you, your friends, your family, and everything else important in your life.

The world has collectively been through a lot in 2021 and going all the way back to 2020. We must continue to build resilience for what is ahead for us. I shared a similar message last year. This is December and this month has a wonderful collection of holiday traditions from around the world: Christmas, Hanaukah, Kwanzaa, Winter Solstice, Boxing Day and many others.

Please connect with me on:

1. Instagram: stephen.mclain
2. Twitter: smclainiii
3. Facebook: stephenmclainconsultant
4. LinkedIn: stephenjmclainiii

Consider joining The Finance Leader Podcast Community Facebook Group, where we can talk leadership and the other topics I present here on the podcast. https://www.facebook.com/groups/financeleaderpodcast This is a good time to jump in and start sharing ideas and thoughts about leadership so we can help each other.

For more resources, please visit stephenmclain.com. On the website, you can download the Leadership Growth Blueprint for Finance and Accounting Managers. You can use this guide to develop your leadership by focusing on communication, and growing and empowering your team.

You can now purchase a course to help you advance your career from financeleaderacademy.com. It's called Advance Your Finance and Accounting Career: Developing a Promotion Strategy that Sets You Apart.

View Details

What do you really want to finish next year? Prioritize so you can focus your effort.

Episode outline:
1) What is important to you,
2) What are your key personal events for 2022,
3) What are your current challenges,
4) What is the vision (or purpose) for your life,
5) Prioritize your effort,
6) Ensure you synchronize your plan for next year with your significant other.

Please connect with me on:

1. Instagram: stephen.mclain
2. Twitter: smclainiii
3. Facebook: stephenmclainconsultant
4. LinkedIn: stephenjmclainiii

Consider joining The Finance Leader Podcast Community Facebook Group, where we can talk leadership and the other topics I present here on the podcast. https://www.facebook.com/groups/financeleaderpodcast This is a good time to jump in and start sharing ideas and thoughts about leadership so we can help each other.

For more resources, please visit stephenmclain.com. On the website, you can download the Leadership Growth Blueprint for Finance and Accounting Managers. You can use this guide to develop your leadership by focusing on communication, and growing and empowering your team.

You can now purchase a course to help you advance your career from financeleaderacademy.com. It's called Advance Your Finance and Accounting Career: Developing a Promotion Strategy that Sets You Apart.

View Details

It’s important for everyone to check their mental fitness during the holiday season. Sometimes we take on more than we can handle and also sometimes our reality doesn’t match up to our expectations. We ask too much of others who may not be ready to act or to participate.

Please connect with me on:

1. Instagram: stephen.mclain
2. Twitter: smclainiii
3. Facebook: stephenmclainconsultant
4. LinkedIn: stephenjmclainiii

Consider joining The Finance Leader Podcast Community Facebook Group, where we can talk leadership and the other topics I present here on the podcast. https://www.facebook.com/groups/financeleaderpodcast This is a good time to jump in and start sharing ideas and thoughts about leadership so we can help each other.

For more resources, please visit stephenmclain.com. On the website, you can download the Leadership Growth Blueprint for Finance and Accounting Managers. You can use this guide to develop your leadership by focusing on communication, and growing and empowering your team.

You can now purchase a course to help you advance your career from financeleaderacademy.com. It's called Advance Your Finance and Accounting Career: Developing a Promotion Strategy that Sets You Apart.

View Details

A professional certification provides a credential that marks you as an authority in Finance and Accounting, so ensure you can continue to hold that certification by earning the required annual credits. 2021 is coming to an end quickly and due to the holidays, everything is a rush and you never feel like you have enough time.

Please connect with me on:

1. Instagram: stephen.mclain
2. Twitter: smclainiii
3. Facebook: stephenmclainconsultant
4. LinkedIn: stephenjmclainiii

Consider joining The Finance Leader Podcast Community Facebook Group, where we can talk leadership and the other topics I present here on the podcast. https://www.facebook.com/groups/financeleaderpodcast This is a good time to jump in and start sharing ideas and thoughts about leadership so we can help each other.

For more resources, please visit stephenmclain.com. On the website, you can download the Leadership Growth Blueprint for Finance and Accounting Managers. You can use this guide to develop your leadership by focusing on communication, and growing and empowering your team.

You can now purchase a course to help you advance your career from financeleaderacademy.com. It's called Advance Your Finance and Accounting Career: Developing a Promotion Strategy that Sets You Apart.

View Details

Your long-term goal of achieving the role of Chief Financial Officer is ambitious and will require planning, commitment, and hard work. You must be seen as a knowledgeable and professionally credentialed leader in Finance and Accounting. Commit to owning your career today so you plan out moves that contribute to you advancing. Be comfortable taking risk and have a written plan.

Episode outline:

1. You must own your career,
2. The experience and background of the typical CFO,
3. The CFO selection process,
4. Become a leader in Finance and Accounting, and
5. You need to start your planning and preparation today.

Please follow me on:

1. Instagram: stephen.mclain
2. Twitter: smclainiii
3. Facebook: stephenmclainconsultant
4. LinkedIn: stephenjmclainiii

Consider joining The Finance Leader Podcast Community Facebook Group, where we can talk leadership and the other topics I present here on the podcast. https://www.facebook.com/groups/financeleaderpodcast This is a good time to jump in and start sharing ideas and thoughts about leadership so we can help each other.

For more resources, please visit stephenmclain.com. On the website, you can download the Leadership Growth Blueprint for Finance and Accounting Managers. You can use this guide to develop your leadership by focusing on communication, and growing and empowering your team.

You can now purchase a course to help you advance your career from financeleaderacademy.com. It's called Advance Your Finance and Accounting Career: Developing a Promotion Strategy that Sets You Apart.

View Details

All organizations in the 21st century must view themselves as a technology company first, no matter their industry, to set the correct mindset and perspective. Your technology system determines how relevant and how quickly information and communication can be processed, which is critical to making the right decisions at the right time.

Episode outline:

1. Every company must see themselves as a technology company first,
2. Automate routine information and reports,
3. Your system must be secure to ensure trust with all stakeholders, and
4. Technology planning must be included in the base budget.

Please follow me on:

1. Instagram: stephen.mclain
2. Twitter: smclainiii
3. Facebook: stephenmclainconsultant
4. LinkedIn: stephenjmclainiii

Consider joining The Finance Leader Podcast Community Facebook Group, where we can talk leadership and the other topics I present here on the podcast. https://www.facebook.com/groups/financeleaderpodcast This is a good time to jump in and start sharing ideas and thoughts about leadership so we can help each other.

For more resources, please visit stephenmclain.com. On the website, you can download the Leadership Growth Blueprint for Finance and Accounting Managers. You can use this guide to develop your leadership by focusing on communication, and growing and empowering your team.

You can now purchase a course to help you advance your career from financeleaderacademy.com. It's called Advance Your Finance and Accounting Career: Developing a Promotion Strategy that Sets You Apart.

View Details

The Chief Financial Officer contributes significantly to the strategic planning and execution processes of the organization. Strategy becomes a decision about choices around available resources. Where do you commit the company to go based on the resources that are available? The CFO and their teams help to evaluate key metrics in the development and then execution of the strategy. The CFO must take a strong leadership role in the formulation, analysis, and then execution of the strategy.

Episode outline:

1. What is strategy,
2. Prefer a long-term strategy instead of operating in the short term, and
3. How the CFO adds value to strategy planning and execution.

Please follow me on:

1. Instagram: stephen.mclain
2. Twitter: smclainiii
3. Facebook: stephenmclainconsultant
4. LinkedIn: stephenjmclainiii

Consider joining The Finance Leader Podcast Community Facebook Group, where we can talk leadership and the other topics I present here on the podcast. https://www.facebook.com/groups/financeleaderpodcast This is a good time to jump in and start sharing ideas and thoughts about leadership so we can help each other.

For more resources, please visit stephenmclain.com. On the website, you can download the Leadership Growth Blueprint for Finance and Accounting Managers. You can use this guide to develop your leadership by focusing on communication, and growing and empowering your team.

You can now purchase a course to help you advance your career from financeleaderacademy.com. It's called Advance Your Finance and Accounting Career: Developing a Promotion Strategy that Sets You Apart.

View Details

What value does the Chief Financial Officer add to the company? A CFO typically has a wealth of experience, knowledge, and a particular strategic skillset to help them navigate the challenges of leading an organization. But what do CFOs do to add value? The CFO Leads the Finance and Accounting teams who don’t only conduct reporting and transaction recording, but also can add tremendous value by analyzing opportunities in all sections of the profit and loss statement.

Episode outline:

1. Advises the CEO, the executive team, and the board,
2. Examines new opportunities within the P&L statement,
3. Maximizes technology to develop better analysis and accounting practices,
4. Safeguards company assets and it’s financial reputation, and
5. Trains their team to partner with leaders around the company.

Please follow me on:

1. Instagram: stephen.mclain
2. Twitter: smclainiii
3. Facebook: stephenmclainconsultant
4. LinkedIn: stephenjmclainiii

Consider joining The Finance Leader Podcast Community Facebook Group, where we can talk leadership and the other topics I present here on the podcast. https://www.facebook.com/groups/financeleaderpodcast This is a good time to jump in and start sharing ideas and thoughts about leadership so we can help each other.

For more resources, please visit stephenmclain.com. On the website, you can download the Leadership Growth Blueprint for Finance and Accounting Managers. You can use this guide to develop your leadership by focusing on communication, and growing and empowering your team.

You can now purchase a course to help you advance your career from financeleaderacademy.com. It's called Advance Your Finance and Accounting Career: Developing a Promotion Strategy that Sets You Apart.

View Details

The modern CFO requires a different set of skills and perspective to navigate the complexities of the new global marketplace. Traditional business concepts are changing into more a dynamic and socially conscious environment where you must be able to solve much different problems than as a team manager. When you combine a strategic skillset with your finance and accounting knowledge plus a growth mindset, you will be able to succeed at the executive level.

The following outline is used during the outline:

1. You must transition your skillset as you advance in role and responsibility,
2. Anticipate the future business environment and coach the development of options within the decision-making process,
3. Can you adapt and lead change,
4. Clear and consistent communication includes being able to listen effectively, and
5. Continue to grow personally and to develop your team.

Please join The Finance Leader Podcast Community Facebook Group, where we can talk leadership and the other topics I present here on the podcast. https://www.facebook.com/groups/financeleaderpodcast This is a good time to jump in and start sharing ideas and thoughts about leadership so we can help each other.

For more resources, please visit stephenmclain.com. On the website, you can download the Leadership Growth Blueprint for Finance and Accounting Managers. You can use this guide to develop your leadership by focusing on communication, and growing and empowering your team.

You can now purchase a course to help you advance your career from financeleaderacademy.com. It's called Advance Your Finance and Accounting Career: Developing a Promotion Strategy that Sets You Apart.

Please follow me on:

1. Instagram: stephen.mclain
2. Twitter: smclainiii
3. Facebook: stephenmclainconsultant
4. LinkedIn: stephenjmclainiii

View Details

The C Suite is a partnership of senior leaders who must be committed to working with each other to properly guide their organization to success, while also ensuring that group think never takes hold. Senior executives must challenge each other professionally, execute the strategy, and solve complex problems together. It begins and ends with leaders willing to hold themselves accountable for the organization’s success and failures. It’s a partnership that can create long-standing value that benefits all critical stakeholders.

The episode follows this outline:

1. It’s a partnership to deliver the strategy,
2. Strategic mindset with a focus on value creation,
3. Vision, influence, and communication are key, and
4. Successes or failures rests with the C-suite.

Please join The Finance Leader Podcast Community Facebook Group, where we can talk leadership and the other topics I present here on the podcast. https://www.facebook.com/groups/financeleaderpodcast This is a good time to jump in and start sharing ideas and thoughts about leadership so we can help each other.

For more resources, please visit stephenmclain.com. On the website, you can download the Leadership Growth Blueprint for Finance and Accounting Managers. You can use this guide to develop your leadership by focusing on communication, and growing and empowering your team.

You can now purchase a course to help you advance your career from financeleaderacademy.com. It's called Advance Your Finance and Accounting Career: Developing a Promotion Strategy that Sets You Apart.

Please follow me on:

1. Instagram: stephen.mclain
2. Twitter: smclainiii
3. Facebook: stephenmclainconsultant
4. LinkedIn: stephenjmclainiii

View Details

The Role of Chief Financial Officer requires a different mindset, a different world view, and a perspective that helps you see the organization differently. The CFO must be forward thinking and must never quit.

The following outline is used during the episode:

1. The qualities of the successful c suite executive,
2. You must pivot your skillset, mindset, and perspective,
3. Embrace change and embrace adversity,
4. You must set the right example every day to establish a high standard, and
5. You must own your career and your goal accomplishment process.

You can now purchase a course to help you advance your career from financeleaderacademy.com. It's called Advance Your Finance and Accounting Career: Developing a Promotion Strategy that Sets You Apart.

Please join The Finance Leader Podcast Community Facebook Group, where we can talk leadership and the other topics I present here on the podcast. https://www.facebook.com/groups/financeleaderpodcast This is a good time to jump in and start sharing ideas and thoughts about leadership so we can help each other.

For more resources, please visit stephenmclain.com. On the website, you can download the Leadership Growth Blueprint for Finance and Accounting Managers. You can use this guide to develop your leadership by focusing on communication, and growing and empowering your team.

Please follow me on:

1. Instagram: stephen.mclain
2. Twitter: smclainiii
3. Facebook: stephenmclainconsultant

View Details

This is the time to prepare for your future senior leader role. Don’t wait until you are a senior manager looking to break into a more junior executive position. Work on the key skills today and change your mindset.

You can now purchase a course to help you advance your career from financeleaderacademy.com. It's called Advance Your Finance and Accounting Career: Developing a Promotion Strategy that Sets You Apart.

Please join The Finance Leader Podcast Community Facebook Group, where we can talk leadership and the other topics I present here on the podcast. https://www.facebook.com/groups/financeleaderpodcast This is a good time to jump in and start sharing ideas and thoughts about leadership so we can help each other.

For more resources, please visit stephenmclain.com. On the website, you can download the Leadership Growth Blueprint for Finance and Accounting Managers. You can use this guide to develop your leadership by focusing on communication, and growing and empowering your team.

Please follow me on:

1. Instagram: stephen.mclain
2. Twitter: smclainiii
3. Facebook: stephenmclainconsultant

View Details

This week I am sharing an encore episode from Season 6 – Episode 48, Coaching Leads to Better Results. I believe that everyone needs coaching, because great coaching can help us see things in our life and our career that we can’t see and the best coaching happens when the coach guides, but we actually discover the answers ourselves. When we self-discover what’s lacking or where we are falling short, we are more likely to own the solution. This is why coaching is critical.

As mentioned in the episode, please visit the website of science fiction author Cheryl Lawson to learn more about the Rubicon Saga and her new book A Dark Genesis: cheryllawson.net

You can now purchase a course to help you advance your career from financeleaderacademy.com. It's called Advance Your Finance and Accounting Career: Developing a Promotion Strategy that Sets You Apart.

Please join The Finance Leader Podcast Community Facebook Group, where we can talk leadership and the other topics I present here on the podcast. https://www.facebook.com/groups/financeleaderpodcast This is a good time to jump in and start sharing ideas and thoughts about leadership so we can help each other.

For more resources, please visit stephenmclain.com. On the website, you can download the Leadership Growth Blueprint for Finance and Accounting Managers. You can use this guide to develop your leadership by focusing on communication, and growing and empowering your team.

Please follow me on:

1. Instagram: stephen.mclain
2. Twitter: smclainiii
3. Facebook: stephenmclainconsultant

View Details

There are so many ways in which we limit ourselves from achieving our goals. A self-imposed limit is defeating ourselves before we even begin. Once we convince ourselves that there are no limits to what we can do and achieve, we become unstoppable in the pursuit of our dreams. You have lots of potential…potential for greatness if you believe in yourself. Rid yourselves of these self-imposed limits and free yourself to act.

I have something for you. Consider joining The Finance Leader Podcast Community Facebook Group, where we can talk leadership and the other topics I present here on the podcast. https://www.facebook.com/groups/financeleaderpodcast This is a good time to jump in and start sharing ideas and thoughts about leadership so we can help each other.

For more resources, please visit stephenmclain.com. On the website, you can download the Leadership Growth Blueprint for Finance and Accounting Managers. You can use this guide to develop your leadership by focusing on communication, and growing and empowering your team.

You can now purchase a course to help you advance your career from financeleaderacademy.com. It's called Advance Your Finance and Accounting Career: Developing a Promotion Strategy that Sets You Apart.

Please follow me on:

1. Instagram: stephen.mclain
2. Twitter: smclainiii
3. Facebook: stephenmclainconsultant

View Details

The Finance and Accounting professionals who stay in their comfort zones and only do their daily tasks, will not get the same opportunities as those who get on high visibility projects and who are constantly improving themselves. You may be seen as reliable and trustworthy within the tasks you are given, but you will not be given additional responsibility or a promotion unless you can prove you can do more.

I have something for you. Consider joining The Finance Leader Podcast Community Facebook Group, where we can talk leadership and the other topics I present here on the podcast. https://www.facebook.com/groups/financeleaderpodcast This is a good time to jump in and start sharing ideas and thoughts about leadership so we can help each other.

For more resources, please visit stephenmclain.com. On the website, you can download the Leadership Growth Blueprint for Finance and Accounting Managers. You can use this guide to develop your leadership by focusing on communication, and growing and empowering your team.

You can now purchase a course to help you advance your career from financeleaderacademy.com. It's called Advance Your Finance and Accounting Career: Developing a Promotion Strategy that Sets You Apart.

Please follow me on:

1. Instagram: stephen.mclain
2. Twitter: smclainiii
3. Facebook: stephenmclainconsultant

View Details

I believe in having the right mentor, and that is someone outside your current work situation who can really help you fine tune your career strategy and even help you make some key connections for your future. The best mentor is someone you were worked with in the past, but are not working with now. They know you, they know your abilities, at least in the past, and they know your goals.

I have something for you. Consider joining The Finance Leader Podcast Community Facebook Group, where we can talk leadership and the other topics I present here on the podcast. https://www.facebook.com/groups/financeleaderpodcast This is a good time to jump in and start sharing ideas and thoughts about leadership so we can help each other.

For more resources, please visit stephenmclain.com. On the website, you can download the Leadership Growth Blueprint for Finance and Accounting Managers. You can use this guide to develop your leadership by focusing on communication, and growing and empowering your team.

You can now purchase a course to help you advance your career from financeleaderacademy.com. It's called Advance Your Finance and Accounting Career: Developing a Promotion Strategy that Sets You Apart.

Please follow me on:

1. Instagram: stephen.mclain
2. Twitter: smclainiii
3. Facebook: stephenmclainconsultant

View Details

Leaders must be self-aware of their thoughts, actions, words and behaviors so they are constantly working to build trust and develop their teams. Self-aware leaders know what is appropriate and what isn’t appropriate. Emotionally intelligent leaders can read the room properly that leads to a positive outcome.

The following outline is used during the episode:

1. The great leaders are emotionally intelligent,
2. Think before speaking or taking action, and
3. Read the room so you understand the tone and mood of any gathering

I have something for you. Consider joining The Finance Leader Podcast Community Facebook Group, where we can talk leadership and the other topics I present here on the podcast. https://www.facebook.com/groups/financeleaderpodcast This is a good time to jump in and start sharing ideas and thoughts about leadership so we can help each other.

For more resources, please visit stephenmclain.com. On the website, you can download the Leadership Growth Blueprint for Finance and Accounting Managers. You can use this guide to develop your leadership by focusing on communication, and growing and empowering your team.

You can now purchase a course to help you advance your career from financeleaderacademy.com. It's called Advance Your Finance and Accounting Career: Developing a Promotion Strategy that Sets You Apart.

Please follow me on:

1. Instagram: stephen.mclain
2. Twitter: smclainiii
3. Facebook: stephenmclainconsultant

View Details

The most important responsibility leaders have is to grow other leaders. The first task a great leader will do is to build trust and that begins with our own actions, our attitude, and our behavior. We often get overwhelmed with the tasks, but I want you to shift from a task-focus to a people-focus leadership style. Lead and set a great example, build trust, and empower your team to create an incredible environment for your team to grow.

Episode outline:

1. Build trust,
2. Provide clarity within the team,
3. Develop others, and
4. Let’s talk about a few leaders tools we have.

I have something for you. Consider joining The Finance Leader Podcast Community Facebook Group, where we can talk leadership and the other topics I present here on the podcast. https://www.facebook.com/groups/financeleaderpodcast This is a good time to jump in and start sharing ideas and thoughts about leadership so we can help each other.

For more resources, please visit stephenmclain.com. On the website, you can download the Leadership Growth Blueprint for Finance and Accounting Managers. You can use this guide to develop your leadership by focusing on communication, and growing and empowering your team.

You can now purchase a course to help you advance your career from financeleaderacademy.com. It's called Advance Your Finance and Accounting Career: Developing a Promotion Strategy that Sets You Apart.

Please follow me on:

1. Instagram: stephen.mclain
2. Twitter: smclainiii
3. Facebook: stephenmclainconsultant

View Details

This week, I am talking about developing your plan for earning continuing professional education credits. Continual learning in the Finance and Accounting fields is essential to developing your expertise and establishing your credibility. Ensure you approach earning your annual CPEs by planning them out and adding them to your Individual Development Plan. I want to encourage you to be proactive and not wait until it’s time to recertify and renew to earn CPEs, which usually forces you to scramble to earn them on time.

During the episode, I use the following outline:

1. Earning a professional certification is key to your professional foundation,
2. You need a plan to earn your credits, and
3. Here are some sites where you can earn your annual credits.

I have something for you. Consider joining The Finance Leader Podcast Community Facebook Group, where we can talk leadership and the other topics I present here on the podcast. https://www.facebook.com/groups/financeleaderpodcast This is a good time to jump in and start sharing ideas and thoughts about leadership so we can help each other.

For more resources, please visit stephenmclain.com. On the website, you can download the Leadership Growth Blueprint for Finance and Accounting Managers. You can use this guide to develop your leadership by focusing on communication, and growing and empowering your team.

You can now purchase a course to help you advance your career from financeleaderacademy.com. It's called Advance Your Finance and Accounting Career: Developing a Promotion Strategy that Sets You Apart.

Please follow me on:

1. Instagram: stephen.mclain
2. Twitter: smclainiii
3. Facebook: stephenmclainconsultant

View Details

Finance and Accounting professionals should be partnering with senior leaders and their teams to better execute the organization’s strategy. We know the numbers and can better deliver insights when we open communication instead of staying in our usual stoved-piped function. I want to encourage you to get out of your comfort zone to open a constructive dialogue with senior leaders.

I use the following outline during the episode:

1. You have more influence than you think,
2. Partner with metric and account owners, and
3. The strategy must be shared throughout the organization.

I have something for you. Consider joining The Finance Leader Podcast Community Facebook Group, where we can talk leadership and the other topics I present here on the podcast. https://www.facebook.com/groups/financeleaderpodcast This is a good time to jump in and start sharing ideas and thoughts about leadership so we can help each other.

For more resources, please visit stephenmclain.com. On the website, you can download the Leadership Growth Blueprint for Finance and Accounting Managers. You can use this guide to develop your leadership by focusing on communication, and growing and empowering your team.

You can now purchase a course to help you advance your career from financeleaderacademy.com. It's called Advance Your Finance and Accounting Career: Developing a Promotion Strategy that Sets You Apart.

Please follow me on:

1. Instagram: stephen.mclain
2. Twitter: smclainiii
3. Facebook: stephenmclainconsultant

View Details

Working on a group project that presents to senior leaders is a great opportunity to show off your skills and get recognized for your potential. Performing your daily duties will not move your career but taking risk by working on a group project can definitely move it along. Ensure you are improving and perfecting your group presentation skills to leave an outstanding impression of your abilities.

I use the following outline during the episode:

1. Always know your audience,
2. Don’t overthink your preparation time,
3. Your briefing products should all be in synch and make sense,
4. Ensure the methodology is solid, and
5. Follow up quickly.

Here is the link to Toastmasters: toastmasters.org

I have something for you. Consider joining The Finance Leader Podcast Community Facebook Group, where we can talk leadership and the other topics I present here on the podcast. https://www.facebook.com/groups/financeleaderpodcast This is a good time to jump in and start sharing ideas and thoughts about leadership so we can help each other.

For more resources, please visit stephenmclain.com. On the website, you can download the Leadership Growth Blueprint for Finance and Accounting Managers. You can use this guide to develop your leadership by focusing on communication, and growing and empowering your team.

You can now purchase a course to help you advance your career from financeleaderacademy.com. It's called Advance Your Finance and Accounting Career: Developing a Promotion Strategy that Sets You Apart.

Please follow me on:

1. Instagram: stephen.mclain
2. Twitter: smclainiii
3. Facebook: stephenmclainconsultant

View Details

Build your professional foundation which includes your education, earning a professional certification, and growing your business knowledge. Your Foundation establishes your professional credibility and expertise, which is key to being a sought-after Finance and Accounting Leader. Embrace a life-long learning mindset to firmly establish your Professional Foundation.

The following outline is used during the episode:

1. We must build our credentials and knowledge,
2. We will be known for our technical expertise, but we need to develop our leadership ability too,
3. We must embrace continual learning and development, and
4. Update your IDP regularly.

I have something for you. Consider joining The Finance Leader Podcast Community Facebook Group, where we can talk leadership and the other topics I present here on the podcast. https://www.facebook.com/groups/financeleaderpodcast This is a good time to jump in and start sharing ideas and thoughts about leadership so we can help each other.

For more resources, please visit stephenmclain.com. On the website, you can download the Leadership Growth Blueprint for Finance and Accounting Managers. You can use this guide to develop your leadership by focusing on communication, and growing and empowering your team.

You can now purchase a course to help you advance your career from financeleaderacademy.com. It's called Advance Your Finance and Accounting Career: Developing a Promotion Strategy that Sets You Apart.

Please follow me on:

1. Instagram: stephen.mclain
2. Twitter: smclainiii
3. Facebook: stephenmclainconsultant

View Details

What happens during your career journey mostly rests upon decisions you make along with your risk comfort level. Are you planning out your career moves or are you waiting on someone else to give you an opportunity? No one is going to seek you out to hand you what you need to achieve your goals and advance your career.

Episode outline:

1. You are the only person who will care about your career,
2. Seek out opportunities to stand out,
3. Embrace taking risk,
4. Adopt a growth mindset, and
5. Have a written plan.

I have something for you. Consider joining The Finance Leader Podcast Community Facebook Group, where we can talk leadership and the other topics I present here on the podcast. https://www.facebook.com/groups/financeleaderpodcast This is a good time to jump in and start sharing ideas and thoughts about leadership so we can help each other.

For more resources, please visit stephenmclain.com. On the website, you can download the Leadership Growth Blueprint for Finance and Accounting Managers. You can use this guide to develop your leadership by focusing on communication, and growing and empowering your team.

You can now purchase a course to help you advance your career from financeleaderacademy.com. It's called Advance Your Finance and Accounting Career: Developing a Promotion Strategy that Sets You Apart.

Please follow me on:

1. Instagram: stephen.mclain
2. Twitter: smclainiii
3. Facebook: stephenmclainconsultant

View Details

Next week, July 20th, Season 7 will debut, and I will be talking about career advancement strategy and how you can set yourself apart. Topics and areas of focus will be owning your career, what do leaders do, how to partner with senior leaders, perfecting our presentation skills, self-awareness and reading the room, and a few others.

I have something for you. Consider joining The Finance Leader Podcast Community Facebook Group, where we can talk leadership and the other topics I present here on the podcast. https://www.facebook.com/groups/financeleaderpodcast This is a good time to jump in and start sharing ideas and thoughts about leadership so we can help each other.

For more resources, please visit stephenmclain.com. On the website, you can download the Leadership Growth Blueprint for Finance and Accounting Managers. You can use this guide to develop your leadership by focusing on communication, and growing and empowering your team.

You can now purchase a course to help you advance your career from financeleaderacademy.com. It's called Advance Your Finance and Accounting Career: Developing a Promotion Strategy that Sets You Apart.

Please follow me on:

1. Instagram: stephen.mclain
2. Twitter: smclainiii
3. Facebook: stephenmclainconsultant

View Details

I am sharing my interview with Army-Retired Colonel David Fivecoat, Managing Partner of The Fivecoat Consulting Group (thefivecoatconsultinggroup.com). David has a book coming out in July which discusses the leadership attribute “grit.” During the interview, we talked about leadership, dealing with adversity and leading change.

For more resources, please visit stephenmclain.com. On the website, you can download the Leadership Growth Blueprint for Finance and Accounting Managers. You can use this guide to develop your leadership by focusing on communication, and growing and empowering your team.

You can now purchase a course to help you advance your career from financeleaderacademy.com. It's called Advance Your Finance and Accounting Career: Developing a Promotion Strategy that Sets You Apart.

Please follow me on:

1. Instagram: stephen.mclain
2. Twitter: smclainiii
3. Facebook: stephenmclainconsultant

View Details

I have noticed over the last few months on all my social media timelines that people are talking more about their mental health. It’s become a very hot topic. Our mental health is key to our long-term success, our relationships, our view of ourselves, and many other aspects of our lives.

Please visit a mental health professional to discuss your individual mental health concerns.

For more resources, please visit stephenmclain.com. On the website, you can download the Leadership Growth Blueprint for Finance and Accounting Managers. You can use this guide to develop your leadership by focusing on communication, and growing and empowering your team.

You can now purchase a course to help you advance your career from financeleaderacademy.com. It's called Advance Your Finance and Accounting Career: Developing a Promotion Strategy that Sets You Apart.

Please follow me on:

1. Instagram: stephen.mclain
2. Twitter: smclainiii
3. Facebook: stephenmclainconsultant

View Details

This week, I want to share an encore episode from earlier this year, Episode 37, Becoming Coachable to Improve Performance. Being open to feedback and to constructive criticism is key to our long-term development. I am encouraging you to be open to listening to feedback when it comes your way, then evaluate it and then make a decision if you want to apply it.

If you are not open to receiving feedback, then you might miss something incredible that you can apply to your life or career. You might receive 5-10 pieces of feedback over the next 2-3 months, but one might be career or life changing, so be open minded enough to receive it. That one gem might make the difference for you.

For more resources, please visit stephenmclain.com. On the website, you can download the Leadership Growth Blueprint for Finance and Accounting Managers. You can use this guide to develop your leadership by focusing on communication, and growing and empowering your team.

You can now purchase a course to help you advance your career from financeleaderacademy.com. It's called Advance Your Finance and Accounting Career: Developing a Promotion Strategy that Sets You Apart.

Please follow me on:

1. Instagram: stephen.mclain
2. Twitter: smclainiii
3. Facebook: stephenmclainconsultant

View Details

This week, I am sharing the second part of a two-part special interview with Talent Management Executive Kevin Richie. Last week, I shared Part 1, which was a tremendous success. This week, the interview focuses on what it means to be successful and taking risk in your career.

For more resources, please visit stephenmclain.com. On the website, you can download the Leadership Growth Blueprint for Finance and Accounting Managers. You can use this guide to develop your leadership by focusing on communication, and growing and empowering your team.

You can now purchase a course to help you advance your career from financeleaderacademy.com. It's called Advance Your Finance and Accounting Career: Developing a Promotion Strategy that Sets You Apart.

Please follow me on:

1. Instagram: stephen.mclain
2. Twitter: smclainiii
3. Facebook: stephenmclainconsultant

View Details

This week, I am sharing the first part of a two-part interview with Talent Management Executive Kevin Richie as I wrap up Season 6. We talk about Leadership, Team Culture, Recruiting and Hiring new team members, Setting Expectations, Performance Reviews, and Coaching.

For more resources, please visit stephenmclain.com. On the website, you can download the Leadership Growth Blueprint for Finance and Accounting Managers. You can use this guide to develop your leadership by focusing on communication, and growing and empowering your team.

You can now purchase a course to help you advance your career from financeleaderacademy.com. It's called Advance Your Finance and Accounting Career: Developing a Promotion Strategy that Sets You Apart.

Please follow me on:

1. Instagram: stephen.mclain
2. Twitter: smclainiii
3. Facebook: stephenmclainconsultant

View Details

An effective weekly team meeting should help your team members and not just you. Your team should walk away more informed and knowing they will be better resourced and what they are working on has been synchronized within the team. Your meeting needs a well-defined purpose and not just a “check the block” approach each week. Begin by sending out an agenda ahead of the meeting so everyone can be more prepared, which will make it an overall more productive experience.

I discuss the topic using the following outline:

1. Why conduct a weekly team meeting,
2. Ensure you celebrate achievements and key milestones,
3. What are your meeting deliverables, and
4. How to set up your meeting for success.

For more resources, please visit stephenmclain.com. On the website, you can download the Leadership Growth Blueprint for Finance and Accounting Managers. You can use this guide to develop your leadership by focusing on communication, and growing and empowering your team.

You can now purchase a course to help you advance your career from financeleaderacademy.com. It's called Advance Your Finance and Accounting Career: Developing a Promotion Strategy that Sets You Apart.

Please follow me on:

1. Instagram: stephen.mclain
2. Twitter: smclainiii
3. Facebook: stephenmclainconsultant

View Details

Useleadership to better manage your team’s task workload. How you assign tasks also affects your team’s culture. Go beyond just getting tasks done so that they can be used to develop your team, and your people can be ready for greater responsibility. There is definitely a management approach that is required but use your leadership skills to make your team better for the long term.

The following outline is used during the episode:

1. Your role as leader in task management,
2. What you should work on versus your team?
3. Protect your team’s time,
4. Ensure your team has time for personal development,
5. How task management affects team culture.

For more resources, please visit stephenmclain.com. On the website, you can download the Leadership Growth Blueprint for Finance and Accounting Managers. You can use this guide to develop your leadership by focusing on communication, and growing and empowering your team.

You can now purchase a course to help you advance your career from financeleaderacademy.com. It's called Advance Your Finance and Accounting Career: Developing a Promotion Strategy that Sets You Apart.

Please follow me on:

1. Instagram: stephen.mclain
2. Twitter: smclainiii
3. Facebook: stephenmclainconsultant

View Details

The inevitable return to working in the office is coming. Is your team ready? What planning do you need to do? What support do you need from your organization? Moving back to the office isn’t as simple as telling your team I’ll see you in the office tomorrow. You need a plan. Your organization also needs a plan. 

The following points are highlighted in the episode:

1. What’s the plan for returning to the office?
2. How will you prepare your team before going back?
3. What support do you need from your organization?

For more resources, please visit stephenmclain.com. On the website, you can download the Leadership Growth Blueprint for Finance and Accounting Managers. You can use this guide to develop your leadership by focusing on communication, and growing and empowering your team.

You can now purchase a course to help you advance your career from financeleaderacademy.com. It's called Advance Your Finance and Accounting Career: Developing a Promotion Strategy that Sets You Apart.

Please follow me on:

1. Instagram: stephen.mclain
2. Twitter: smclainiii
3. Facebook: stephenmclainconsultant

View Details

Learning to be an effective leader will set you apart positively in the eyes of the senior leaders and executives you work with and will help you advance in your career. We are already expected to be technical experts in our field, so learn leadership to give you the edge you need to advance. 

The episode follows this outline:

1. Leadership starts with our mindset,
2. Our personal character is key,
3. We must lead and influence necessary change,
4. A few areas we can positively change.

For more resources, please visit stephenmclain.com. On the website, you can download the Leadership Growth Blueprint for Finance and Accounting Managers. You can use this guide to develop your leadership by focusing on communication, and growing and empowering your team.

You can now purchase a course to help you advance your career from financeleaderacademy.com. It's called Advance Your Finance and Accounting Career: Developing a Promotion Strategy that Sets You Apart.

Please follow me on:

1. Instagram: stephen.mclain
2. Twitter: smclainiii
3. Facebook: stephenmclainconsultant

View Details

Performance reviews may not be the most exciting topic, but determining a team member’s potential is critical to developing your team. Also, let’s think about performance reviews in a different way and that is through a leadership lens. I believe in doing something different, so you create a better way to do something. A better way to develop your team and a better way to create a positive outcome. That is why we lead….to create more positive outcomes for our team.

I will be talking about performance reviews and determining potential and will highlight the following topics:

1. Team member feedback is an everyday exercise,
2. Deliver feedback properly,
3. What is the performance review trying to accomplish,
4. How will you determine potential for your team members?

You can download the Leadership Growth Blueprint for Finance and Accounting Managers here. You can use this guide to develop your leadership by focusing on communication, and growing and empowering your team.

For more resources, please visit stephenmclain.com.

We need your feedback on helping us make The Finance Leader Podcast even more helpful to your development. Please click here for a survey. The results of the survey can help us put out the content you need. Your information will not be shared.

Please follow me on:

1. Instagram: stephen.mclain
2. Twitter: smclainiii
3. Facebook: stephenmclainconsultant

You can now purchase a course to help you advance your career from Finance Leader Academy. It's called Advance Your Finance and Accounting Career: Developing a Promotion Strategy that Sets You Apart.

View Details

A coach can help you see areas of your leadership and performance that must improve. The best coaching sessions are when we discover for ourselves what we need to change. If you desire to achieve positive results in your job performance, career and life, then you need to know what to change regarding your thought processes and how you organize your life.

The episode uses the following outline:

1. We all need career and personal coaching,
2. The right questions lead to better personal discovery,
3. Achieve results for your career and life, and
4. You can become a great coach for your team.

You can download the Leadership Growth Blueprint for Finance and Accounting Managers here. You can use this guide to develop your leadership by focusing on communication, and growing and empowering your team.

For more resources, please visit stephenmclain.com.

We need your feedback on helping us make The Finance Leader Podcast even more helpful to your development. Please click here for a survey. The results of the survey can help us put out the content you need. Your information will not be shared.

Please follow me on:

1. Instagram: stephen.mclain
2. Twitter: smclainiii
3. Facebook: stephenmclainconsultant

You can now purchase a course to help you advance your career from Finance Leader Academy. It's called Advance Your Finance and Accounting Career: Developing a Promotion Strategy that Sets You Apart.

View Details

I am talking about setting expectations for your team members. What you do, what you hold as accountable, and what you let slide as far as behavior and work performance will become new standards. Set clear expectations up front and then follow through with them, which includes your own personal behavior and work performance. Clear communication is always key to clear expectations.

The episode covers the topic using the following outline:

1. Effective communication is the key,
2. Matching Team culture and your expectations,
3. You must hold everyone accountable including yourself.

You can download the Leadership Growth Blueprint for Finance and Accounting Managers here. You can use this guide to develop your leadership by focusing on communication, and growing and empowering your team.

For more resources, please visit stephenmclain.com.

We need your feedback on helping us make The Finance Leader Podcast even more helpful to your development. Please click here for a survey. The results of the survey can help us put out the content you need. Your information will not be shared.

Please follow me on:

1. Instagram: stephen.mclain
2. Twitter: smclainiii
3. Facebook: stephenmclainconsultant

You can now purchase a course to help you advance your career from Finance Leader Academy. It's called Advance Your Finance and Accounting Career: Developing a Promotion Strategy that Sets You Apart.

View Details

The team’s culture determines how well everyone respects each other and works together. How do you want your team to interact with each other? Do you want to be all business all the time, more relaxed, or something else? As the leader, you set the tone for the team’s culture. Don’t overlook the relationship of team culture and its overall performance.

Team culture is covered using the following outline:

1. What is Team culture?
2. How team culture shapes output and productivity,
3. Your role as leader when it comes to culture,
4. Assessing your team’s culture,
5. How you can adjust the culture

You can download the Leadership Growth Blueprint for Finance and Accounting Managers here. You can use this guide to develop your leadership by focusing on communication, and growing and empowering your team.

For more resources, please visit stephenmclain.com.

We need your feedback on helping us make The Finance Leader Podcast even more helpful to your development. Please click here for a survey. The results of the survey can help us put out the content you need. Your information will not be shared.

Please follow me on:

1. Instagram: stephen.mclain
2. Twitter: smclainiii
3. Facebook: stephenmclainconsultant

You can now purchase a course to help you advance your career from Finance Leader Academy. It's called Advance Your Finance and Accounting Career: Developing a Promotion Strategy that Sets You Apart.

View Details

Since you will have to train and work with new people, how are you shaping and influencing the process? Are you working with HR to find the best candidates? Also, do you really know what the best candidate is who will fit well with your team? The old ways to hire Finance and Accounting team members must be relooked so we get the best candidates who can lead and influence positive outcomes.

I will highlight the following topics:

1. What is your ideal candidate?
2. How does team culture determine the best candidate?
3. Be proactive with HR,
4. Do something different in the interview,
5. Improve your selection process.

You can download the Leadership Growth Blueprint for Finance and Accounting Managers here. You can use this guide to develop your leadership by focusing on communication, and growing and empowering your team.

For more resources, please visit stephenmclain.com.

We need your feedback on helping us make The Finance Leader Podcast even more helpful to your development. Please click here for a survey. The results of the survey can help us put out the content you need. Your information will not be shared.

Please follow me on:

1. Instagram: stephen.mclain
2. Twitter: smclainiii
3. Facebook: stephenmclainconsultant

You can now purchase a course to help you advance your career from Finance Leader Academy. It's called Advance Your Finance and Accounting Career: Developing a Promotion Strategy that Sets You Apart.

View Details

What do I mean when I say team culture? It’s the values, beliefs, and attitudes that are present on your team. Who controls this culture? Well, many factors control this.

As a leader, you set the tone, expectations, and overall accountability of the team. If you are not paying attention closely, the team culture can shift to something not desirable. This is why this topic is so important. You have to be on top of team culture. Pay attention to words and how people are interacting. How are people respecting others? How is the team’s work ethic? Are we still in line with the company’s overall culture?

You can download the Leadership Growth Blueprint for Finance and Accounting Managers here. You can use this guide to develop your leadership by focusing on communication, and growing and empowering your team.

For more resources, please visit stephenmclain.com.

We need your feedback on helping us make The Finance Leader Podcast even more helpful to your development. Please click here for a survey. The results of the survey can help us put out the content you need. Your information will not be shared.

Please follow me on:

1. Instagram: stephen.mclain
2. Twitter: smclainiii
3. Facebook: stephenmclainconsultant

You can now purchase a course to help you advance your career from Finance Leader Academy. It's called Advance Your Finance and Accounting Career: Developing a Promotion Strategy that Sets You Apart.

View Details

We need to be doing some important things in our life to ensure we reduce anxiety and stress. Additionally, as a leader, you should be setting the example for others to follow. This bonus episode is about a few self-care ideas to help you.

You can download the Leadership Growth Blueprint for Finance and Accounting Managers here. You can use this guide to develop your leadership by focusing on communication, and growing and empowering your team.

For more resources, please visit stephenmclain.com.

We need your feedback on helping us make The Finance Leader Podcast even more helpful to your development. Please click here for a survey. The results of the survey can help us put out the content you need. Your information will not be shared.

Please follow me on:

1. Instagram: stephen.mclain
2. Twitter: smclainiii
3. Facebook: stephenmclainconsultant

You can now purchase a course to help you advance your career from Finance Leader Academy. It's called Advance Your Finance and Accounting Career: Developing a Promotion Strategy that Sets You Apart.

View Details

We should be continually reviewing our goals ensuring they are realistic, they are measurable, they can be achieved, and are time based. It’s best when we break up our goal into smaller, more easily achievable pieces. We can then achieve small victories to show progress and this positively affects our mindset.

Please enjoy this encore presentation of Episode 36 on Goal Setting

You can download the Leadership Growth Blueprint for Finance and Accounting Managers here. You can use this guide to develop your leadership by focusing on communication, and growing and empowering your team.

For more resources, please visit stephenmclain.com.

We need your feedback on helping us make The Finance Leader Podcast even more helpful to your development. Please click here for a survey. The results of the survey can help us put out the content you need. Your information will not be shared.

Please follow me on:

1. Instagram: stephen.mclain
2. Twitter: smclainiii
3. Facebook: stephenmclainconsultant

You can now purchase a course to help you advance your career from Finance Leader Academy. It's called Advance Your Finance and Accounting Career: Developing a Promotion Strategy that Sets You Apart.

View Details

We all need a mentor, and we can also become a great mentor to someone else. When looking for a mentor, I prefer someone who I had previously worked for with a history of a great working relationship. The mentor relationship is unique and differs from that of a coach and teacher. A brilliant mentor who knows the current challenges and market can help guide you as you navigate your career.

I highlight the following topics during the episode:

1. Why we need a mentor,
2. Traits of a great mentor,
3. The mentor relationship, and
4. You then become a great mentor too

You can download the Leadership Growth Blueprint for Finance and Accounting Managers here. You can use this guide to develop your leadership by focusing on communication, and growing and empowering your team.

For more resources, please visit stephenmclain.com.

We need your feedback on helping us make The Finance Leader Podcast even more helpful to your development. Please click here for a survey. The results of the survey can help us put out the content you need. Your information will not be shared.

Please follow me on:

1. Instagram: stephen.mclain
2. Twitter: smclainiii
3. Facebook: stephenmclainconsultant

You can now purchase a course to help you advance your career from Finance Leader Academy. It's called Advance Your Finance and Accounting Career: Developing a Promotion Strategy that Sets You Apart.

View Details

We often think of conflict as something that is destructive. And it often is, but there are times when healthy conflict can drive you to a new level of excellence. As leaders, I want you to determine which type of conflict you are dealing with and take action immediately to stop the unhealthy conflict. You need to encourage healthy personal interactions that focuses on growing your team. It can be done.

I use the following outline:

1. You created the team culture you have,
2. Get out front early when you see signs of conflict between team members,
3. Realize when you need to bring in additional resources, and,
4. Continue to grow a positive, healthy team culture.

You can download the Leadership Growth Blueprint for Finance and Accounting Managers here. You can use this guide to develop your leadership by focusing on communication, and growing and empowering your team.

For more resources, please visit stephenmclain.com.

We need your feedback on helping us make The Finance Leader Podcast even more helpful to your development. Please click here for a survey. The results of the survey can help us put out the content you need. Your information will not be shared.

Please follow me on:

1. Instagram: stephen.mclain
2. Twitter: smclainiii
3. Facebook: stephenmclainconsultant

You can now purchase a course to help you advance your career from Finance Leader Academy. It's called Advance Your Finance and Accounting Career: Developing a Promotion Strategy that Sets You Apart.

View Details

I am talking about wellness as part of an overall fitness plan. We should not be just surviving our jobs and our life, but, in fact, thriving, where we go to a higher level of overall fitness that leads to healthy growth, mindfulness and prosperity. I am encouraging leaders at all levels to set the example to embrace wellness programs and to include wellness in a team’s overall performance plan.

In the episode, I highlight the following points:

1. You need to invest in your team,
2. The benefits of wellness,
3. Use the resources that are available, and,
4. The importance of mindfulness

You can download the Leadership Growth Blueprint for Finance and Accounting Managers here. You can use this guide to develop your leadership by focusing on communication, and growing and empowering your team.

For more resources, please visit stephenmclain.com.

We need your feedback on helping us make The Finance Leader Podcast even more helpful to your development. Please click here for a survey. The results of the survey can help us put out the content you need. Your information will not be shared.

Please follow me on:

1. Instagram: stephen.mclain
2. Twitter: smclainiii
3. Facebook: stephenmclainconsultant

You can now purchase a course to help you advance your career from Finance Leader Academy. It's called Advance Your Finance and Accounting Career: Developing a Promotion Strategy that Sets You Apart.

View Details

Our morning routine is important. It sets up our day for success and having the right attitude. Exercise, eating healthy, a creative outlet and also building up our spirit for positive interaction. It’s all important for our hectic days to be successful.

Please enjoy this encore presentation of Episode 23: Five Great Habits to Improve Your Day.

You can download the Leadership Growth Blueprint for Finance and Accounting Managers here. You can use this guide to develop your leadership by focusing on communication, and growing and empowering your team.

For more resources, please visit stephenmclain.com.

We need your feedback on helping us make The Finance Leader Podcast even more helpful to your development. Please click here for a survey. The results of the survey can help us put out the content you need. Your information will not be shared.

Please follow me on:

1. Instagram: stephen.mclain
2. Twitter: smclainiii
3. Facebook: stephenmclainconsultant

You can now purchase a course to help you advance your career from Finance Leader Academy. It's called Advance Your Finance and Accounting Career: Developing a Promotion Strategy that Sets You Apart.

View Details

Your goal is to be the CFO and even the CEO so you need to start preparing now. You need to develop the skills and mindset to grow into an effective senior leader. Don’t wait until you are a senior manager looking to break into a more junior executive position. Work on the key skills today and change your mindset.

During the episode, the following areas are discussed:

1. Work on your executive presence,
2. Develop these three key skills: communication, relationship building and strategic thinking,
3. Protect your professional reputation, and
4. Learn to lead organizational change.

You can download the Leadership Growth Blueprint for Finance and Accounting Managers here. You can use this guide to develop your leadership by focusing on communication, and growing and empowering your team.

For more resources, please visit stephenmclain.com.

We need your feedback on helping us make The Finance Leader Podcast even more helpful to your development. Please click here for a survey. The results of the survey can help us put out the content you need. Your information will not be shared.

Please follow me on:

1. Instagram: stephen.mclain
2. Twitter: smclainiii
3. Facebook: stephenmclainconsultant

You can now purchase a course to help you advance your career from Finance Leader Academy. It's called Advance Your Finance and Accounting Career: Developing a Promotion Strategy that Sets You Apart.

View Details

Are you playing it safe in your career by not pushing yourself to reach your potential? When we stay in our comfort zone, we are oppressing ourselves by preventing our own advancement. You need to own your career and own getting out of your comfort zone. You are responsible for your success so don’t fear asking what you need to develop. Don’t let an opportunity get away. Own your career and own your future! Stop playing it safe!

The following points are discussed further in the episode:

1. Are you a people pleaser?
2. Have you created a set of rules for yourself which limits you?
3. You are responsible for your success, and,
4. Shift your mindset so you accomplish your goals

You can download the Leadership Growth Blueprint for Finance and Accounting Managers here. You can use this guide to develop your leadership by focusing on communication, and growing and empowering your team.

For more resources, please visit stephenmclain.com.

We need your feedback on helping us make The Finance Leader Podcast even more helpful to your development. Please click here for a survey. The results of the survey can help us put out the content you need. Your information will not be shared.

Please follow me on:

1. Instagram: stephen.mclain
2. Twitter: smclainiii
3. Facebook: stephenmclainconsultant

You can now purchase a course to help you advance your career from Finance Leader Academy. It's called Advance Your Finance and Accounting Career: Developing a Promotion Strategy that Sets You Apart.

View Details

Perfectionism comes from insecurity and not necessarily from a desire to perform at a high level. When we fear others or we seek their approval, we can aim to be more perfect in our work, but it actually detracts because we don’t focus ourselves on the most important parts of the task since we are trying to have an answer for everything. Perfectionism wastes time and effort.

I talk about the episode with the following areas:

1. You are a perfectionist due to an insecurity,
2. Perfectionism has a high opportunity cost,
3. A perfectionist tries to fully account for what they don’t control, and
4. Progress over perfection

You can download the Leadership Growth Blueprint for Finance and Accounting Managers here. You can use this guide to develop your leadership by focusing on communication, and growing and empowering your team.

For more resources, please visit stephenmclain.com.

We need your feedback on helping us make The Finance Leader Podcast even more helpful to your development. Please click here for a survey. The results of the survey can help us put out the content you need. Your information will not be shared.

Please follow me on:

1. Instagram: stephen.mclain
2. Twitter: smclainiii
3. Facebook: stephenmclainconsultant

You can now purchase a course to help you advance your career from Finance Leader Academy. It's called Advance Your Finance and Accounting Career: Developing a Promotion Strategy that Sets You Apart.

View Details

There are so many ways in which we limit ourselves from achieving our goals. A self-imposed limit is defeating ourselves before we even begin. Once we convince ourselves that there no limits to what we can do and achieve, we become unstoppable in the pursuit of our dreams. You have lots of potential…potential for greatness if you believe in yourself. Rid yourselves of these self-imposed limits and free yourself to act.

I discuss the following in the episode:

1. Limiting belief,
2. Fixed Mindset,
3. Imposter syndrome,
4. Procrastination,
5. Seeking approval,
6. Needing to be perfect,
7. And what you can do to change it

You can download the Leadership Growth Blueprint for Finance and Accounting Managers here. You can use this guide to develop your leadership by focusing on communication, and growing and empowering your team.

For more resources, please visit stephenmclain.com.

We need your feedback on helping us make The Finance Leader Podcast even more helpful to your development. Please click here for a survey. The results of the survey can help us put out the content you need. Your information will not be shared.

Please follow me on:

1. Instagram: stephen.mclain
2. Twitter: smclainiii
3. Facebook: stephenmclainconsultant

You can now purchase a course to help you advance your career from Finance Leader Academy. It's called Advance Your Finance and Accounting Career: Developing a Promotion Strategy that Sets You Apart.

View Details

We all need coaching to help us see things in ourselves that we do not see. Becoming more coachable is having a growth mindset ready to change so we can rise to the next level. Humbling ourselves and self-awareness opens the door to accepting critical feedback that provides opportunity for growth. What will you do when you finally see an area in your professional life that needs an adjustment?

The episode follows this outline:

1. We must be open minded about feedback,
2. Become more self-aware,
3. Coaching helps us self-discover, and
4. We need to challenge our mindset

You can download the Leadership Growth Blueprint for Finance and Accounting Managers here. You can use this guide to develop your leadership by focusing on communication, and growing and empowering your team.

For more resources, please visit stephenmclain.com.

We need your feedback on helping us make The Finance Leader Podcast even more helpful to your development. Please click here for a survey. The results of the survey can help us put out the content you need. Your information will not be shared.

Please follow me on:

1. Instagram: stephen.mclain
2. Twitter: smclainiii
3. Facebook: stephenmclainconsultant

You can now purchase a course to help you advance your career from Finance Leader Academy. It's called Advance Your Finance and Accounting Career: Developing a Promotion Strategy that Sets You Apart.

View Details

What is your Big Goal for 2021? For goals to be effective, they must be written down, be measurable, be specific, have a completion date, be realistic and achievable. I talk about Goal Setting in 2021 within the following outline:

1) Our cheese moved in 2020,
2) What is your Big Goal for 2021,
3) Progress over perfection, and
4) Have a resilience plan.

You can download the Leadership Growth Blueprint for Finance and Accounting Managers here. You can use this guide to develop your leadership by focusing on communication, and growing and empowering your team.

For more resources, please visit stephenmclain.com.

We need your feedback on helping us make The Finance Leader Podcast even more helpful to your development. Please click here for a survey. The results of the survey can help us put out the content you need. Your information will not be shared.

Please follow me on:

1. Instagram: stephen.mclain
2. Twitter: smclainiii
3. Facebook: stephenmclainconsultant

You can now purchase a course to help you advance your career from Finance Leader Academy. It's called Advance Your Finance and Accounting Career: Developing a Promotion Strategy that Sets You Apart.

View Details

This upcoming week is New Year’s Day. The New Year gives us a great opportunity to start over, to start fresh. To begin anew. The New Year provides us the chance to address our goals, but never New Year’s resolutions. Resolutions are fleeting thoughts of impossibilities because they are not rooted in a plan or reality. A goal has a plan. A goal is measurable, its specific, it has a completion date, and it is written down. A goal has realistic planning around it.

Here is a recap of my top 5 episodes from the year:

1. Episode 28 was on Improving the Monthly Close Process: We must continue to improve the monthly close process so we add value and help our senior leaders do their jobs better with valuable insights about the business.

2. Episode 27 – Understanding Emotional Intelligence: Understanding Emotional Intelligence is our ability to be self-aware of our own words, actions, and attitude and how it affects others. We need to know ourselves so we can become a better leader who can inspire and create a positive environment where our team can thrive.

3. Episode 19 – Developing Executive Presence: Executive Presence represents your ability to confidently lead an organization in a positive way, show respect for others, solve problems, and anticipate the future.

4. Episode 17 – Taking Risk in Your Career: its about getting out of your comfort zone to advance your career

5. Episode 10 – Empower Your Team: You can’t do the work alone. A well- trained team capable of completing high level tasks on their own adds incredible value.

Please enjoy these episodes!

You can download the Leadership Growth Blueprint for Finance and Accounting Managers here. You can use this guide to develop your leadership by focusing on communication, and growing and empowering your team.

For more resources, please visit stephenmclain.com.

We need your feedback on helping us make The Finance Leader Podcast even more helpful to your development. Please click here for a survey. The results of the survey can help us put out the content you need. Your information will not be shared.

Please follow me on:

1. Instagram: stephen.mclain
2. Twitter: smclainiii
3. Facebook: stephenmclainconsultant

You can now purchase a course to help you advance your career from Finance Leader Academy. It's called Advance Your Finance and Accounting Career: Developing a Promotion Strategy that Sets You Apart.

View Details

Hope has always been my most significant way of moving forward, dealing with adversity, and becoming more resilient. Hope is what keeps me going. I know that tomorrow and next week will be better. No matter what happens to me today….tomorrow is better. Today is already here….tomorrow will give me relief. Tomorrow is where I reside and see the great possibilities.

You can download the Leadership Growth Blueprint for Finance and Accounting Managers here. You can use this guide to develop your leadership by focusing on communication, and growing and empowering your team.

For more resources, please visit stephenmclain.com.

We need your feedback on helping us make The Finance Leader Podcast even more helpful to your development. Please click here for a survey. The results of the survey can help us put out the content you need. Your information will not be shared.

Please follow me on:

1. Instagram: stephen.mclain
2. Twitter: smclainiii
3. Facebook: stephenmclainconsultant

You can now purchase a course to help you advance your career from Finance Leader Academy. It's called Advance Your Finance and Accounting Career: Developing a Promotion Strategy that Sets You Apart.

View Details

A spreadsheet can be an amazing tool to analyze data or create a report, when planned out and organized properly. Our spreadsheet files should be simple and easy to use by all members of our team. Leaders should set expectations on how analyst tools should be created and maintained by their teams. Let’s create analyst tools that deliver what we need, but also easy to use, easy to understand, and easy to maintain.

In the episode, I discuss the following on how to make more effective spreadsheet files:

1. What is the purpose of the spreadsheet you will create?
2. Keep it simple,
3. Map out the spreadsheet’s logic, and,
4. Write out the instructions.

You can download the Leadership Growth Blueprint for Finance and Accounting Managers here. You can use this guide to develop your leadership by focusing on communication, and growing and empowering your team.

For more resources, please visit stephenmclain.com.

We need your feedback on helping us make The Finance Leader Podcast even more helpful to your development. Please click here for a survey. The results of the survey can help us put out the content you need. Your information will not be shared.

Please follow me on:

1. Instagram: stephen.mclain
2. Twitter: smclainiii
3. Facebook: stephenmclainconsultant

You can now purchase a course to help you advance your career from Finance Leader Academy. It's called Advance Your Finance and Accounting Career: Developing a Promotion Strategy that Sets You Apart.

View Details

Strategy is often a set of tough choices of what to do and what not to do with the limited resources you have. Your strategy includes your target market, your product and service offerings, the business structure, how resources are allocated, and how you will transform the business. As finance and accounting professionals, we need to do our best in supporting and help to develop the best strategy. We have access to data and information to assist us.

In the episode, I discuss the following aspects of strategy:

1. Use the right metrics,
2. How should we best allocate our resources,
3. Evaluate the results, and,
4. Ensure you are having the right discussions

You can download the Leadership Growth Blueprint for Finance and Accounting Managers here. You can use this guide to develop your leadership by focusing on communication, and growing and empowering your team.

For more resources, please visit stephenmclain.com.

We need your feedback on helping us make The Finance Leader Podcast even more helpful to your development. Please click here for a survey. The results of the survey can help us put out the content you need. Your information will not be shared.

Please follow me on:

1. Instagram: stephen.mclain
2. Twitter: smclainiii
3. Facebook: stephenmclainconsultant

You can now purchase a course to help you advance your career from Finance Leader Academy. It's called Advance Your Finance and Accounting Career: Developing a Promotion Strategy that Sets You Apart.

View Details

Adapting to a People Focused Leadership style will create a dynamic environment where you develop and empower your team instead of only trying to complete items off your to-do list.

There are three significant reasons to change your leadership style from being Task Focused to Becoming People Focused:

1) You can not do the work alone - you need a well developed team,
2) Productivity, effectiveness will increase as your team feels more appreciated and involved, and
3) The business of leadership is to make others better.

Task prioritization, building trust, and communicating clearly will be required to change your focus.

You can download the free Leadership Guide for Finance and Accounting Managers here. You can use this guide to develop your leadership by focusing on communication, and growing and empowering your team.

You can now purchase a course to help you advance your career from Finance Leader Academy. It's called Advance Your Finance and Accounting Career: Developing a Promotion Strategy that Sets You Apart.

For more resources, please visit stephenmclain.com.

Please follow me on:

1. Instagram: stephen.mclain
2. Twitter: smclainiii
3. Facebook: stephenmclainconsultant

View Details

Why do teams fail? Often, leaders don't realize their teams or organizations are failing due to complacency. It's not usually the product or service line that has caused the failure, but actually ineffective communication or a lack of trust. It takes great leadership to turn around failing teams.

In the episode, I discuss four steps to turn around a failing team:

1. It starts with us,
2. Determine what the real problem is,
3. Creating a shared purpose, set of values, and standards, and,
4. Build trust.

You can download the Leadership Growth Blueprint for Finance and Accounting Managers here. You can use this guide to develop your leadership by focusing on communication, and growing and empowering your team.

For more resources, please visit stephenmclain.com.

We need your feedback on helping us make The Finance Leader Podcast even more helpful to your development. Please click here for a survey. The results of the survey can help us put out the content you need. Your information will not be shared.

Please follow me on:

1. Instagram: stephen.mclain
2. Twitter: smclainiii
3. Facebook: stephenmclainconsultant

You can now purchase a course to help you advance your career from Finance Leader Academy. It's called Advance Your Finance and Accounting Career: Developing a Promotion Strategy that Sets You Apart.

View Details

We should be building sustainable businesses that can outlast an economic downturn with no or minimal employee layoffs. Long-term sustainability can be achieved by getting more creative in generating new lines of revenue. The year 2020 taught us that you must never get complacent with the business model. Keep looking at new ways to bring in revenue.

The following points are discussed in the episode:

1. We can never be complacent with the business model,
2. We must include crisis situations into our long term models and projections, and
3. We must change our retained earnings approach so the business can survive in the long term.

You can download the Leadership Growth Blueprint for Finance and Accounting Managers here. You can use this guide to develop your leadership by focusing on communication, and growing and empowering your team.

For more resources, please visit stephenmclain.com.

We need your feedback on helping us make The Finance Leader Podcast even more helpful to your development. Please click here for a survey. The results of the survey can help us put out the content you need. Your information will not be shared.

Please follow me on:

1. Instagram: stephen.mclain
2. Twitter: smclainiii
3. Facebook: stephenmclainconsultant

You can now purchase a course to help you advance your career from Finance Leader Academy. It's called Advance Your Finance and Accounting Career: Developing a Promotion Strategy that Sets You Apart.

View Details

Financial Analysts help grow the business by digging in to the how and the why to financial transactions to find patterns and insights. These patterns can help find a way to leverage your offers to increase sales. Additionally, costs can be saved by finding efficiencies within the expenses.

During the episode, I discuss the following ways Financial Analysts can better support the business:

1. Figure out the why and how regarding data around financial transactions,
2. Help to validate the strategy through the analysis of key metrics, and
3. Partner with senior leaders so they better understand their numbers.

You can download the Leadership Growth Blueprint for Finance and Accounting Managers here. You can use this guide to develop your leadership by focusing on communication, and growing and empowering your team.

For more resources, please visit stephenmclain.com.

We need your feedback on helping us make The Finance Leader Podcast even more helpful to your development. Please click here for a survey. The results of the survey can help us put out the content you need. Your information will not be shared.

Please follow me on:

1. Instagram: stephen.mclain
2. Twitter: smclainiii
3. Facebook: stephenmclainconsultant

You can now purchase a course to help you advance your career from Finance Leader Academy. It's called Advance Your Finance and Accounting Career: Developing a Promotion Strategy that Sets You Apart.

View Details

Purpose gives us the reason for what we do, and why we show up every day. It's our job as leaders to communicate purpose to our team members so they better understand how they contribute to the organization and can get excited about the brand. When we know our purpose, we can better support the customer. Purpose is what we do, and vision is where we are going.

You can download the Leadership Growth Blueprint for Finance and Accounting Managers here. You can use this guide to develop your leadership by focusing on communication, and growing and empowering your team.

For more resources, please visit stephenmclain.com.

We need your feedback on helping us make The Finance Leader Podcast even more helpful to your development. Please click here for a survey. The results of the survey can help us put out the content you need. Your information will not be shared.

Please follow me on:

1. Instagram: stephen.mclain
2. Twitter: smclainiii
3. Facebook: stephenmclainconsultant

You can now purchase a course to help you advance your career from Finance Leader Academy. It's called Advance Your Finance and Accounting Career: Developing a Promotion Strategy that Sets You Apart.

View Details

Examining Sports through a Leadership lens can aid us in better overcoming adversity. In the episode introduction, I am discussing using how the sports leagues re-started their seasons in 2020 through very difficult adversity. To accomplish your goals, we often have to overcome obstacles and adversity.

This week I am sharing an encore episode from Season 2 on Becoming Your Best Self.

Becoming Your Best Self is essential when you are developing your leadership ability, because when you lead others you should be your best version to encourage growth and development while avoiding toxic behavior.

During the episode, I discuss Becoming Your Best Self using the following focus areas:

1. Continuous improvement,
2. Develop a deep respect for others, and
3. Take the high road when dealing with an adverse event or personal setback.

You can download the show notes here.

You can download the Leadership Growth Blueprint for Finance and Accounting Managers here. You can use this guide to develop your leadership by focusing on communication, and growing and empowering your team.

For more resources, please visit stephenmclain.com.

We need your feedback on helping us make The Finance Leader Podcast even more helpful to your development. Please click here for a survey. The results of the survey can help us put out the content you need. Your information will not be shared.

Please follow me on:

1. Instagram: stephen.mclain
2. Twitter: smclainiii
3. Facebook: stephenmclainconsultant

You can now purchase a course to help you advance your career from Finance Leader Academy. It's called Advance Your Finance and Accounting Career: Developing a Promotion Strategy that Sets You Apart.

View Details

Earning a Certification adds great value to your professional foundation and can boost your earnings and career potential.

Please enjoy this encore episode from Season 2 about Earning a Professional Certification. Season 4 will debut on November 10, 2020. Thank you for the great support!

You can download the Leadership Growth Blueprint for Finance and Accounting Managers here. You can use this guide to develop your leadership by focusing on communication, and growing and empowering your team.

For more resources, please visit stephenmclain.com.

We need your feedback on helping us make The Finance Leader Podcast even more helpful to your development. Please click here for a survey. The results of the survey can help us put out the content you need. Your information will not be shared.

Please follow me on:

1. Instagram: stephen.mclain
2. Twitter: smclainiii
3. Facebook: stephenmclainconsultant

You can now purchase a course to help you advance your career from Finance Leader Academy. It's called Advance Your Finance and Accounting Career: Developing a Promotion Strategy that Sets You Apart.

View Details

Finance and Accounting professionals have a great opportunity to be so much more than the expert who does analysis or prepares financial statements. We can help shape the business so it achieves its full potential.

Please enjoy this encore episode from Season 2 on Building Resiliency. Season 4 will debut on November 10, 2020. Thank you for the great support!

You can download the Leadership Growth Blueprint for Finance and Accounting Managers here. You can use this guide to develop your leadership by focusing on communication, and growing and empowering your team.

For more resources, please visit stephenmclain.com.

We need your feedback on helping us make The Finance Leader Podcast even more helpful to your development. Please click here for a survey. The results of the survey can help us put out the content you need. Your information will not be shared.

Please follow me on:

1. Instagram: stephen.mclain
2. Twitter: smclainiii
3. Facebook: stephenmclainconsultant

You can now purchase a course to help you advance your career from Finance Leader Academy. It's called Advance Your Finance and Accounting Career: Developing a Promotion Strategy that Sets You Apart.

View Details

We need to transition to a Trusted Business Advisor so we help leaders from around the company to grow and develop the business. As Finance and Accounting professionals, we have insights that others often do not have. In the episode, I have three recommendations:

1. Tell a story with the numbers,
2. Work with your IT team to make reporting better, and,
3. Partner with leaders at all levels around the company.

You can download the Leadership Growth Blueprint for Finance and Accounting Managers here. You can use this guide to develop your leadership by focusing on communication, and growing and empowering your team.

For more resources, please visit stephenmclain.com.

We need your feedback on helping us make The Finance Leader Podcast even more helpful to your development. Please click here for a survey. The results of the survey can help us put out the content you need. Your information will not be shared.

Please follow me on:

1. Instagram: stephen.mclain
2. Twitter: smclainiii
3. Facebook: stephenmclainconsultant

You can now purchase a course to help you advance your career from Finance Leader Academy. It's called Advance Your Finance and Accounting Career: Developing a Promotion Strategy that Sets You Apart.

View Details

Leaders make decisions every day. You must become comfortable making decisions. There are many types of decisions, and it's critical that as leaders, we make timely decisions so we can move forward. We should not dwell on "what-ifs" or have regret. Make the decision and move on. In the episode, I discuss the following steps to overcoming indecisiveness:

1. Change your mindset,
2. Know what kind of decision you are making,
3. Write down the details of the decision,
4. Consult with your experts and your team,
5. Analyze your options,
6. Make the decision, and
7. Communicate your decision.

You can download the Leadership Growth Blueprint for Finance and Accounting Managers here. You can use this guide to develop your leadership by focusing on communication, and growing and empowering your team.

For more resources, please visit stephenmclain.com.

We need your feedback on helping us make The Finance Leader Podcast even more helpful to your development. Please click here for a survey. The results of the survey can help us put out the content you need. Your information will not be shared.

Please follow me on:

1. Instagram: stephen.mclain
2. Twitter: smclainiii
3. Facebook: stephenmclainconsultant

You can now purchase a course to help you advance your career from Finance Leader Academy. It's called Advance Your Finance and Accounting Career: Developing a Promotion Strategy that Sets You Apart.

View Details

We must continue to improve the monthly close process so we add value and help our senior leaders do their jobs better with valuable insights about the business. Monthly close isn't only to close the books, but to really figure out what happened so we can determine if the business met expectations and we can make necessary adjustments. Monthly close requires leadership to improve the process. I discuss the following on the episode:

1. Map out the process - does it make sense?
2. Let analysts be analysts, and
3. Briefing slides should tell a story.

Our analysts and staff accountants should be spending most of their time analyzing and building the business and not only cutting and pasting information from one report to another report, which often happens.

You can download the Monthly Close slide example here.

You can download the Leadership Growth Blueprint for Finance and Accounting Managers here. You can use this guide to develop your leadership by focusing on communication, and growing and empowering your team.

For more resources, please visit stephenmclain.com.

We need your feedback on helping us make The Finance Leader Podcast even more helpful to your development. Please click here for a survey. The results of the survey can help us put out the content you need. Your information will not be shared.

Please follow me on:

1. Instagram: stephen.mclain
2. Twitter: smclainiii
3. Facebook: stephenmclainconsultant

You can now purchase a course to help you advance your career from Finance Leader Academy. It's called Advance Your Finance and Accounting Career: Developing a Promotion Strategy that Sets You Apart.

View Details

Understanding Emotional Intelligence is our ability to be self-aware of our own words, actions, and attitude and how it affects others. We need to know ourselves so we can become a better leader who can inspire and create a positive environment where our team can thrive.

I discuss the topic using the following points:

1. Our actions and words affect others so we must become self-aware
2. Understanding and caring for others
3. Stay humble, continue to learn, and set the example, and
4. We still set the bar high, but how we do it becomes critical

You can download the Leadership Growth Blueprint for Finance and Accounting Managers here. You can use this guide to develop your leadership by focusing on communication, and growing and empowering your team.

For more resources, please visit stephenmclain.com.

We need your feedback on helping us make The Finance Leader Podcast even more helpful to your development. Please click here for a survey. The results of the survey can help us put out the content you need. Your information will not be shared.

Please follow me on:

1. Instagram: stephen.mclain
2. Twitter: smclainiii
3. Facebook: stephenmclainconsultant

You can now purchase a course to help you advance your career from Finance Leader Academy. It's called Advance Your Finance and Accounting Career: Developing a Promotion Strategy that Sets You Apart.

View Details

Collaboration done right can help solve problems by using the expertise and knowledge around the organization. When you collaborate with others, you get the benefit of the insights that you may have missed when working alone. In the episode, I discuss the following:

1. How collaboration can solve a problem
2. You need to build trust and set clear expectations
3. Getting the right people involved
4. Communicate the results across the company

You can download the Leadership Growth Blueprint for Finance and Accounting Managers here. You can use this guide to develop your leadership by focusing on communication, and growing and empowering your team.

For more resources, please visit stephenmclain.com.

We need your feedback on helping us make The Finance Leader Podcast even more helpful to your development. Please click here for a survey. The results of the survey can help us put out the content you need. Your information will not be shared.

Please follow me on:

1. Instagram: stephen.mclain
2. Twitter: smclainiii
3. Facebook: stephenmclainconsultant

You can now purchase a course to help you advance your career from Finance Leader Academy. It's called Advance Your Finance and Accounting Career: Developing a Promotion Strategy that Sets You Apart.

View Details

Growing your influence is a key step in your journey in becoming a senior leader. You have a unique role, because you have the opportunity to speak with many leaders across the organization. This provides a chance to talk about how to best support the strategy and to share ideas where the organization should be going in the future.

In the episode, I discuss three areas to consider when growing your influence:

1) Our ability to influence others begins with us,
2) Understand your potential impact,
3) Continue to make connections.

You can download the Leadership Growth Blueprint for Finance and Accounting Managers here. You can use this guide to develop your leadership by focusing on communication, and growing and empowering your team.

For more resources, please visit stephenmclain.com.

We need your feedback on helping us make The Finance Leader Podcast even more helpful to your development. Please click here for a survey. The results of the survey can help us put out the content you need. Your information will not be shared.

Please follow me on:

1. Instagram: stephen.mclain
2. Twitter: smclainiii
3. Facebook: stephenmclainconsultant

You can now purchase a course to help you advance your career from Finance Leader Academy. It's called Advance Your Finance and Accounting Career: Developing a Promotion Strategy that Sets You Apart.

View Details

We are obligated to speak up about a decision if it's not in the best interest of the organization. In this episode, I discuss four steps to professionally disagree with your supervisor about a pending decision,

1. Be in the proper mindset,
2. Our approach and method,
3. Bring data, analysis, and options to discuss,
4. If your recommendation and concerns are dismissed, then we fully support the decision.

You can download the Leadership Growth Blueprint for Finance and Accounting Managers here. You can use this guide to develop your leadership by focusing on communication, and growing and empowering your team.

For more resources, please visit stephenmclain.com.

We need your feedback on helping us make The Finance Leader Podcast even more helpful to your development. Please click here for a survey. The results of the survey can help us put out the content you need. Your information will not be shared.

Please follow me on:

1. Instagram: stephen.mclain
2. Twitter: smclainiii
3. Facebook: stephenmclainconsultant

You can now purchase a course to help you advance your career from Finance Leader Academy. It's called Advance Your Finance and Accounting Career: Developing a Promotion Strategy that Sets You Apart.

View Details

Your habits often define who you are, and what you can accomplish. In the episode, I recommend five habits that you can incorporate into your day,

1. Improve your morning and evening routines,
2. How can you reduce your mid-day stress,
3. Better time management,
4. Written goals, and,
5. Team communication.

Here is the blog post on scheduling time on your calendar for thinking.

You can download the Leadership Growth Blueprint for Finance and Accounting Managers here. You can use this guide to develop your leadership by focusing on communication, and growing and empowering your team.

For more resources, please visit stephenmclain.com.

We need your feedback on helping us make The Finance Leader Podcast even more helpful to your development. Please click here for a survey. The results of the survey can help us put out the content you need. Your information will not be shared.

Please follow me on:

1. Instagram: stephen.mclain
2. Twitter: smclainiii
3. Facebook: stephenmclainconsultant

You can now purchase a course to help you advance your career from Finance Leader Academy. It's called Advance Your Finance and Accounting Career: Developing a Promotion Strategy that Sets You Apart.

View Details

You need a well-trained team behind you, because you can't get all the work done alone. To go to a higher level, you need an empowered and trained team ready to take on challenges. In Finance and Accounting, we deal with a hectic list of tasks, reports, additional analysis, and monthly close. We need a team ready to help us get all the requirements done.

In the episode, I discuss,

1. You need to set the team culture you need to achieve excellence,
2. Take risk and better understand the risk / reward relationship, and
3. Empower your team to take on responsibility.

You can download the Leadership Growth Blueprint for Finance and Accounting Managers here. You can use this guide to develop your leadership by focusing on communication, and growing and empowering your team.

For more resources, please visit stephenmclain.com.

We need your feedback on helping us make The Finance Leader Podcast even more helpful to your development. Please click here for a survey. The results of the survey can help us put out the content you need. Your information will not be shared.

Please follow me on:

1. Instagram: stephen.mclain
2. Twitter: smclainiii
3. Facebook: stephenmclainconsultant

You can now purchase a course to help you advance your career from Finance Leader Academy. It's called Advance Your Finance and Accounting Career: Developing a Promotion Strategy that Sets You Apart.

View Details

You must set yourself apart from your peers so you get recognized by senior leaders and advance your career. Just doing your job every day will not get you promoted. Only completing tasks that have been assigned to you won’t help you advance.

I discuss five areas that can help set you apart from your peers:

1. Grow your leadership skills and abilities,
2. Make sure you make your boss's priorities your priorities,
3. Get things done without being told and get it done with little guidance,
4. Achieve results, and
5. Professionalism and develop your executive presence.

You can download the Leadership Growth Blueprint for Finance and Accounting Managers here. You can use this guide to develop your leadership by focusing on communication, and growing and empowering your team.

For more resources, please visit stephenmclain.com.

We need your feedback on helping us make The Finance Leader Podcast even more helpful to your development. Please click here for a survey. The results of the survey can help us put out the content you need. Your information will not be shared.

Please follow me on:

1. Instagram: stephen.mclain
2. Twitter: smclainiii
3. Facebook: stephenmclainconsultant

You can now purchase a course to help you advance your career from Finance Leader Academy. It's called Advance Your Finance and Accounting Career: Developing a Promotion Strategy that Sets You Apart.

View Details

You can have a great Impact as a Leader in your organization. In this episode, I talk about why I love to lead, and the positive impacts we get to make in our organization.

While we perform our Finance and Accounting duties, we can get overwhelmed while delivering financial projections, completing our journal entries, and conducting monthly close procedures, but we also have a great responsibility to create an environment where our team can grow and thrive. As leaders, here are a few significant ways we can impact our teams:

• We get to grow and develop our people,
• We can create positive change, and
• We have the great opportunity to communicate a shared purpose and vision for our team.

We lead so we can make our team better and bring about positive change for our organization.

You can download the show notes here.

For more resources, please visit stephenmclain.com.

We need your feedback on helping us make The Finance Leader Podcast even more helpful to your development. Please click here for a survey. The results of the survey can help us put out the content you need. Your information will not be shared.

Please follow me on:

1. Instagram: stephen.mclain
2. Twitter: smclainiii
3. Facebook: stephenmclainconsultant

You can now purchase a course to help you advance your career from Finance Leader Academy. It's called Advance Your Finance and Accounting Career: Developing a Promotion Strategy that Sets You Apart.

View Details

Leadership development can set you apart from your peers so you can advance your career. This podcast is hosted and produced by Stephen McLain, a U.S. Army-Retired Finance Officer. After retirement, Stephen transitioned to working as a Team Member and Business Consultant in Corporate Finance and Accounting. In the Finance and Accounting professions, we tend to have great technical expertise, but there is a leadership skills gap. This podcast will be dedicated to leadership development for Finance and Accounting professionals, where we will focus on leadership topics such as providing a purpose for our team, building trust, improving communication, and developing our team.

For more resources, please visit stephenmclain.com.

Please follow me on:

1. Instagram: stephen.mclain
2. Twitter: smclainiii
3. Facebook: stephenmclainconsultant

View Details

Writing down your goals gives you a significantly greater chance of success according to numerous studies going back decades. When goal setting, you must be specific, have a defined date of completion, review them often, and update regularly.

In the episode, I highlight my goal setting process which includes:

1. having the right mindset,
2. ensuring you have a supportive inner circle,
3. develop a strategy,
4. nurture your network, and
5. assess and update your goals regularly.

You can download the show notes here.

For more resources, please visit stephenmclain.com.

We need your feedback on helping us make The Finance Leader Podcast even more helpful to your development. Please click here for a survey. The results of the survey can help us put out the content you need. Your information will not be shared.

Please follow me on:

1. Instagram: stephen.mclain
2. Twitter: smclainiii
3. Facebook: stephenmclainconsultant

You can now purchase a course to help you advance your career from Finance Leader Academy. It's called Advance Your Finance and Accounting Career: Developing a Promotion Strategy that Sets You Apart.

View Details

Your mindset determines your outcome. How you view yourself and how you view the world will affect your career potential.

In the episode, we discuss the following:

1) Leadership is the embodiment of making the impossible possible,
2) Mindset determines everything,
3) What is holding you back?
4) You can only control yourself and how you view your abilities,
5) Remove negative influences from your life,
6) Our team will adopt our mindset, so we need to be self-aware of our own.

You can download the show notes here.

We need your feedback on helping us make The Finance Leader Podcast even more helpful to your development. Please click here for a survey. The results of the survey can help us put out the content you need. Your information will not be shared.

More resources are available at stephenmclain.com.

View Details

Values make up our personal character. This week's episode is about the seven key leader values that we should strive to improve daily. These values show how we lead, and how we deal with tough decisions. Are we fair? Can we be humble? Are we an expert in our field?

We are discussing humility, professionalism, technical competence, respect, duty, integrity, and courage.

How you approach your duties affects your team members. We must be working to have a personal character that will prepare us for a future ethical dilemma. What will you do when faced with a decision that might be unethical? Do you challenge the status quo?

You can download the free Leadership Guide for Finance and Accounting Managers here. The original show notes are no longer available.

Please visit stephenmclain.com for more resources. 

View Details

Becoming Your Best Self is essential when you are developing your leadership ability, because when you lead others you should be your best version to encourage growth and development while avoiding toxic behavior.

During the episode, I discuss Becoming Your Best Self using the following focus areas:

1. Continuous improvement,
2. Develop a deep respect for others, and
3. Take the high road when dealing with an adverse event or personal setback.

You can download the show notes here.

For more resources, please visit stephenmclain.com. 

View Details

Executive Presence represents your ability to confidently lead an organization in a positive way, show respect for others, solve problems, and anticipate the future. In the episode, I talk about Executive Presence in terms of looking like a leader, acting like a leader, and becoming a leader.

You can download the show notes here.

Please visit stephenmclain.com for more resources.

You can now purchase a course to help you advance your career from Finance Leader Academy. It's called Advance Your Finance and Accounting Career: Developing a Promotion Strategy That Sets You Apart. 

View Details

Writing down your goals gives you a significantly greater chance of success according to numerous studies going back decades. When goal setting, you must be specific, have a defined date of completion, review them often, and update regularly.

In the episode, I highlight my goal setting process which includes:

1. having the right mindset,
2. ensuring you have a supportive inner circle,
3. develop a strategy,
4. nurture your network, and
5. assess and update your goals regularly.

You can download the show notes here.

For more resources, please visit stephenmclain.com.

You can now purchase a course to help you advance your career from Finance Leader Academy. It's called Advance Your Finance and Accounting Career: Developing a Promotion Strategy that Sets You Apart. 

View Details

By taking more risk, you improve your chance to advance your career. By only doing your daily duties, you will most likely be seen as a competent, reliable worker, but really never able to show your potential for greater responsibility. Additionally, I am encouraging you to take more risk in developing your team

In the episode, I dive into four areas / reasons about adding more risk into your career:

1) You must do more than your daily duties to advance your career,
2) Becoming comfortable means you have become complacent,
3) Develop courage to add more risk, and
4) Know what you want to accomplish so you understand why you will take risk and know which risks to take.

We need your feedback on helping us make The Finance Leader Podcast even more helpful to your development. Please click here for a survey. The results of the survey can help us put out the content you need. Your information will not be shared.

You can download the show notes here.

Please visit stephenmclain.com for more resources.

You can now purchase a course to help you advance your career from Finance Leader Academy. It's called Advance Your Finance and Accounting Career: Developing a Promotion Strategy that Sets You Apart.

View Details

Adapting to a People Focused Leadership style will create a dynamic environment where you develop and empower your team instead of only trying to complete items off your to-do list.

There are three significant reasons to change your leadership style from being Task Focused to Becoming People Focused:

1) You can not do the work alone - you need a well developed team,
2) Productivity, effectiveness will increase as your team feels more appreciated and involved, and
3) The business of leadership is to make others better.

Task prioritization, building trust, and communicating clearly will be required to change your focus.

You can download the show notes here.

For more resources, please visit stephenmclain.com.

We are currently in production on a course to help Finance and Accounting Professionals to advance their career. Please visit The Finance Leader Academy for more details. 

View Details

Effective leadership is built on trust. Teams and relationships are built on trust.  Once trust is lost, it will be difficult to recover. It takes time, and you may never get it back.

In this episode, we discuss the following:

What happens to a team when no one trusts the leader, and they can't trust each other?

1. We must personally set the best example of character and work ethic,
2. We must clearly communicate relevant information quickly,
3. We must deliver results within the deadlines,
4. We must be fair and unbiased when leading our teams, and how we establish our team culture

What happens when its time to give credit for great ideas and excellent work performance? Do you give credit where its due?

Trust is essential to creating a winning team.

You can download the show notes here.

For more resources, please go to stephenmclain.com. 

View Details

Purpose gives us the reason for what we do, and why we show up every day. It's our job as leaders to communicate purpose to our team members so they better understand how they contribute to the organization and can get excited about the brand. When we know our purpose, we can better support the customer. Purpose is what we do, and vision is where we are going.

You can download the show notes here.

For additional resources, please visit stephenmclain.com. 

View Details

Earning a Professional Certification adds great value to your professional foundation and can boost your earnings and career potential. In the episode, I am discussing the reasons to earn a professional certification or license. Additionally, I list out a few finance and accounting certifications you can consider to pursue.

You can download the show notes here with links to certification bodies I mention in the episode.

For more resources, please visit stephenmclain.com.

I am currently in production for an on-line course that can help you advance your career. There is a limited time discount while I am working on bringing the course to you. 

View Details

Developing your soft skills will enhance and develop your career. In January 2020, LinkedIn published a list of five soft skills that companies are looking for right now. In this episode, I discuss the following critical soft skills: 1) Creativity, 2) Persuasion, 3) Collaboration, 4) Adaptability, and 5) Emotional Intelligence.

You can download the free Leadership Guide for Finance and Accounting Managers here. The original show notes are no longer available.

Please visit stephenmclain.com for more resources.

We are currently producing an online course to help you with your Finance and Accounting career.  

View Details

Overcoming adversity and building your resilience are the topics on the episode this week. Becoming resilient is the ability to bounce back and overcome an adverse event. In the episode, I list seven items that you can use to build a resiliency plan.

Additionally, this episode is the debut of Season #2 of the podcast. This season will be focused on Leader Development with topics that include goal setting, critical soft skills, and licenses and certifications, and developing an executive presence and many more. Enjoy!

You can download the free Leadership Guide for Finance and Accounting Managers here. The original show notes are no longer available.

Please visit stephenmclain.com for more resources.

We are currently producing an online course to help you with your Finance and Accounting career.  

View Details

How do we overcome our strong Organizational Culture, that normally helps us achieve excellence, when extraordinary circumstances require us to go against it?

In this bonus episode, I talk about the strong culture of the U.S. Armed Forces, which requires close-in training by its personnel. But, due to COVID-19, military personnel have to get away from each other to protect themselves, which means they can't train like they normally have to do. And military units love to train. They need to train. Training is what they do so they are ready when the nation calls them.

You can sign up for updates here and get the free Leadership Guide.

You can find more resources at stephenmclain.com.

View Details

Going forward, it's time to recession proof your business. After recovering from this very unprecedented economic downturn, I am encouraging business owners to prioritize recession proofing their business by developing a plan to survive the next downturn. It will be challenging to small businesses, but we need to do this.

There are many tools available to have and acquire funds to cover operations and pay employees:
1) Prioritize retaining more earnings,
2) Partner with the Small Business Administration to understand and better maximize their tools, programs and education,
3) Partner with your local bank, especially one that is affiliated with the Small Business Administration,
4) Apply for a line of credit to use during an emergency.

Retaining more earnings for small businesses is definitely challenging. It's easier said than done. This may require you to find a mentor who can guide you, and also when you partner with the Small Business Administration and a local bank, you can get expertise to develop a plan.

I also discuss the challenges for publicly traded companies in the episode.

I need your help. If you know of any non-profits, organizations, or government agencies that track companies who practice being recession proof, please let me know at contact@stephenmclain.com.

You can sign up for my weekly update (and get the free leadership development guide) by clicking here.

For more resources, please visit stephenmclain.com.

View Details

We will face change constantly in our careers and our personal lives. Doors will close and doors will open. For this bonus episode, I am discussing a few reasons why a door will close on us in our career. We should remain positive and keep looking for new opportunities. Always have your network ready and be helpful to others also.

Please read my blog post on Increasing Your Promotion Potential.

For more resources, please visit stephenmclain.com. 

View Details

During this economic downturn, we are anything but "business as usual." This unique time requires creative leadership by business owners to save their businesses. The last few weeks, I have been thinking about a few critical issues that leaders will have to consider once we have recovered and to be better prepared for the next economic crisis.

Business owners and senior leaders must consider the following before the next crisis:
1) Does your business have a crisis plan? What is the trigger for initiating it?
2) How did you care for your employees during this crisis?
3) What IT infrastructure improvements need to be done?
4) Is your business recession proof? Can your business withstand a significant drop in revenue over several weeks, maybe even months? Were you able to create new lines of business?

Future employees will be asking these questions going forward and will want to know how your organization reacted and how well prepared it was for the current economic challenges.

Please click here to join my free Facebook group.

For additional resources, please visit stephenmclain.com. 

View Details

We need leaders right now as we face many challenges. We need leaders of compassion who can provide hope and a vision to overcome what we are facing as a world. In this bonus episode, I am challenging Leaders to care for their teams. Additionally, I talk about wrapping up Season 1 and what is to come over the next few weeks. Season #2 will debut on April 28, 2020.

Please enjoy this blog post on Personal Character.

You can join my free Facebook Group here where we grow our leadership skills.

You can find additional resources at stephenmclain.com. 

View Details

The goal of empowerment is to develop, grow, and then trust your team members to complete tasks and eventually make decisions on your behalf. This requires you to take risk and have the long-term view of what your team can accomplish.

In this episode, we discuss the following:
1) What drives you as a leader?
2) How empowerment can encourage your team to excellence,
3) The two types of micro managers.

You can download the free Leadership Guide for Finance and Accounting Managers here. The original show notes are no longer available.

You can find more resources at stephenmclain.com. 

View Details

Invest in your personal development. Don't wait on others to invest in you. Commit your plan on paper, set goals, and develop a timeline for completion. Track your progress and re-assess your development needs.

In this episode, I talk about:
1) The need to personally invest in your development,
2) Leaders need to set the example by emphasizing personal growth and development,
3) Developing your leadership can set you apart from your peers,
4) Leaders are readers.

Please enjoy the episode!

Please click here for a blog post I wrote on lifelong learning.

You can download the free Leadership Guide for Finance and Accounting Managers here. The original show notes are no longer available. 

For more resources, please visit stephenmclain.com. 

View Details

Values make up our personal character. This week's episode is about the seven key leader values that we should strive to improve daily. These values show how we lead, and how we deal with tough decisions. Are we fair? Can we be humble? Are we an expert in our field?

We are discussing humility, professionalism, technical competence, respect, duty, integrity, and courage.

How you approach your duties affects your team members. We must be working to have a personal character that will prepare us for a future ethical dilemma. What will you do when faced with a decision that might be unethical? Do you challenge the status quo?

Enjoy the show!

You can download the free Leadership Guide for Finance and Accounting Managers here. The original show notes are no longer available.

More resources are available at stephenmclain.com.

View Details

There are tools that can help you lead and manage the team better. This week, we talk about time management, prioritizing, back  briefing, backwards planning, and delegating.

One of the most important topics I discuss is about prioritizing the many tasks you have. Tasks and requirements come at you and your team constantly. Spend the required time to capture and properly sequence the tasks across the team, then communicate that priority to everyone.

You can download the free Leadership Guide for Finance and Accounting Managers here. The original show notes are no longer available.

You can find more resources at stephenmclain.com. 

View Details

Complacency helps you lose on opportunities for growth, innovation and seeing necessary change to keep up in your organization and industry. When you get comfortable, you miss out on opportunities. When you don't change, you fall behind. Challenge the status quo daily so you can improve, innovate and grow daily.

In this episode,

1) I walk you through a mini-scenario about the complacent habits of Michael, a new manager,
2) The dangers of complacency,
3) How complacency gets rooted in your team,
4) Ways to avoid complacency.

You can download the free Leadership Guide for Finance and Accounting Managers here. The original show notes are no longer available.

Please visit stephenmclain.com for more resources. 

View Details

You can have a great Impact as a Leader in your organization. In this episode, I talk about why I love to lead, and the positive impacts we get to make in our organization. 

While we perform our Finance and Accounting duties, we can get overwhelmed while delivering financial projections, completing our journal entries, and conducting monthly close procedures, but we also have a great responsibility to create an environment where our team can grow and thrive. As leaders, here are a few significant ways we can impact our teams:

• We get to grow and develop our people,
• We can create positive change, and
• We have the great opportunity to communicate a shared purpose and vision for our team.

We lead so we can make our team better and bring about positive change for our organization.

You can download the free Leadership Guide for Finance and Accounting Managers here. The original show notes are no longer available.

For more resources, please visit stephenmclain.com.

View Details

Your mindset determines your outcome. How you view yourself and how you view the world will affect your career potential.

In the episode, we discuss the following:

1) Leadership is the embodiment of making the impossible possible,
2) Mindset determines everything,
3) What is holding you back?
4) You can only control yourself and how you view your abilities,
5) Remove negative influences from your life,
6) Our team will adopt our mindset, so we need to be self-aware of our own.

You can download the free Leadership Guide for Finance and Accounting Managers here. The original show notes are no longer available.

More resources are available at stephenmclain.com.

Please enjoy the show!

View Details

Effective leadership is built on trust. Teams and relationships are built on trust.  Once trust is lost, it will be difficult to recover. It takes time, and you may never get it back.

In this episode, we discuss the following:

What happens to a team when no one trusts the leader, and they can't trust each other?

1. We must personally set the best example of character and work ethic,
2. We must clearly communicate relevant information quickly,
3. We must deliver results within the deadlines,
4. We must be fair and unbiased when leading our teams, and how we establish our team culture

What happens when its time to give credit for great ideas and excellent work performance? Do you give credit where its due?

Trust is essential to creating a winning team.

You can download the free Leadership Guide for Finance and Accounting Managers here. The original show notes are no longer available.

For more resources, please go to stephenmclain.com. 

View Details

Leadership can be your defining characteristic to help advance your career. In this episode, I talk about the four key areas of responsibility that Finance Leaders must be doing every day: 1) influencing, 2) growing your people, 3) achieving results, and 4) seeing the future. 

• Influencing is about achieving buy-in about a big idea you have or creating positive change in your organization
• We continually grow our people to mentor our team members to achieve their goals, become better in their roles, and develop potential for greater responsibility
• Your credibility as a leader depends on you achieving results
• Seeing the future means we study industry trends so we can make recommendations to senior leaders on strategy development.

You can download the free Leadership Guide for Finance and Accounting Managers here. The original show notes are no longer available.

Please visit stephenmclain.com to access more resources. 

View Details

This podcast is for Finance and Accounting professionals to develop and enhance leadership skills. You are working in a complex and critical organizational function with very tight deadlines and most likely a hectic monthly close process. You are forced to use old accounting and finance systems that do not work to serve the current needs of the business. We are going to build a great community so we can all grow!

In this premiere episode, we will lay the groundwork for how you can move beyond the everyday managerial approach to grow as a leader and set yourself apart to advance your career.

We need your feedback on helping us make The Finance Leader Podcast even more helpful to your development. Please click here for a survey. The results of the survey can help us put out the content you need. Your information will not be shared.

You can download the free Leadership Guide for Finance and Accounting Managers here. The original show notes are no longer available. 

Please visit stephenmclain.com for more resources.