In this episode of On the Flywheel, I’m joined by Paul Herrerias, Founder and CEO of Herrerias & Associates. We talk about leadership, team building, and why strong businesses are built by teams—not individuals. Paul shares lessons from growing up in agriculture, his path through accounting and executive search, and what he’s learned about hiring, accountability, and building high-performing teams. We also discuss communication, culture, and the mindset leaders need to create long-term momentum.

• Growing up in agriculture teaches responsibility, ownership, and value creation early in life.
• Businesses are built by teams, not individuals or budgets alone.
• Great leaders understand themselves before they can effectively lead others.
• Hiring well requires understanding strategy, culture, momentum, and leadership style.
• How and why someone leaves a job reveals as much as why they joined it.
• High-performing teams address conflict directly and communicate constructively.
• Accountability—clear roles and expectations—is a defining trait of great CEOs.
• The difference between a group and a team is shared commitment and continuous improvement.
• Strong teams balance communication, commitment, and competency.
• An attitude of gratitude fuels leadership, resilience, and hope in organizations and communities.

Welcome to On the Flywheel 00:00:00

Paul Herrerias’ Early Life & Agricultural Roots 00:01:30

FFA, 4-H, and Early Leadership Lessons 00:05:30

Education, Accounting, and the CPA Path 00:10:30

Why Teams Build Businesses (Not Individuals) 00:14:30

Executive Search & Understanding Team Fit 00:18:30

Interviewing for Self-Awareness and Values 00:23:30

Common Team Mistakes & The Role of Coaching 00:28:30

Accountability, Roles, and CEO Effectiveness 00:32:30

The Three C’s of High-Performing Teams 00:36:00

Groups vs. Teams & Continuous Improvement 00:39:30

Books, Leadership, Learning & Final Wisdom 00:42:30

Paul K. Herrerias – Website | Website

Jonathan Mahrt – LinkedIn | Instagram | Website

Book recommendation:

Links to all books mentioned on the show

Thank you for joining us on this episode of On the Flywheel! If you enjoyed our discussion, please rate, follow, share, and review our podcast. Your support helps us continue to bring you insightful conversations with inspiring guests. Until next time, keep building momentum in your personal and professional lives!

In this conversation, Ash Gomez, founder of Digital Twinners and co-founder of Orion Sky Studios, shares his journey from a sales career to running successful media companies. He emphasizes the importance of customer experience, building a strong team, and leveraging technology to enhance business operations. Ash discusses the impact of AI on the creative industry, lead generation strategies, and the significance of networking and partnerships. He also reflects on handling customer feedback and the diverse projects undertaken by Orion Sky Studios, concluding with insights on business philosophy and mindset.

• Ash Gomez transitioned from a sales career to entrepreneurship.
• Digital Twinners focuses on real estate media, while Orion Sky Studios handles broader video production.
• Customer experience is crucial for business success.
• Building a strong team is essential for operational efficiency.
• AI can enhance creative processes but cannot replace human connection.
• Feedback from clients is vital for continuous improvement.
• Networking and partnerships are key to business growth.
• Authenticity and care differentiate small businesses from larger competitors.
• Choosing the right tools and processes can streamline operations.
• A positive mindset and following a plan are essential for overcoming challenges.

00:00 Introduction to Ash Gomez and His Journey

00:03:04 The Evolution of Digital Twinners and Orion Sky Studios

00:06:03 The Importance of Customer Experience in Business

00:09:01 Building a Strong Team and Effective Processes

00:12:01 Navigating Challenges in the Photography Industry

00:15:03 Leveraging Technology and Tools for Efficiency

00:17:53 The Role of AI in Creative Industries

00:20:55 Lead Generation Strategies for Business Growth

00:23:54 Handling Customer Feedback and Reviews

00:26:53 Exploring Orion Sky Studios' Diverse Projects

00:30:12 The Power of Networking and Partnerships

00:32:53 Final Thoughts on Business Philosophy and Mindset

Ash Gomez – Website | Website | Instagram | Instagram | Instagram | Youtube

Jonathan Mahrt – LinkedIn | Instagram | Website

Links to all books mentioned on the show

Thank you for joining us on this episode of On the Flywheel! If you enjoyed our discussion, please rate, follow, share, and review our podcast. Your support helps us continue to bring you insightful conversations with inspiring guests. Until next time, keep building momentum in your personal and professional lives!

In this episode, I sit down with consultant Jon Rickards to talk through his unique path—from the Navy’s nuclear program to decades in the wine industry—and how all of that led him into helping small and micro-businesses bring order to their chaos. Jon shares what most business owners struggle with, why understanding your numbers matters so much, and how he’s helping his wife build a community-focused salon business.

• Non-linear paths create powerful skill sets.
• Exposure broadens character and capability.
• Small business owners often lack business foundations.
• Understanding your numbers is essential.
• HR is a major blind spot.
• Chaos is often a systems problem, not a people problem.
• Micro-business owners must learn to give up hats.
• Building simple, maintainable systems matters.
• The salon model Jon and his wife built is about community, not just services.
• Relationships are a business survival tool.

00:00:00 Introduction

00:02:05 Jon’s Early Life & Military Path

00:06:40 Lessons & Challenges from the Navy

00:10:55 Discovering a Passion for Finance

00:13:20 Trying Financial Advising & Realizing It Wasn’t a Fit

00:16:45 Entering the Wine Industry

00:21:30 Moving Toward Consulting

00:25:50 What Small Businesses Get Wrong

00:31:40 The Power of Systems & Delegation

00:36:10 Inside the Salon Business Model

00:41:45 Training, Compensation & Team Growth

00:46:30 Relationship Building in an Economic Downturn

00:49:00 Lightning Questions: Books & Billboards

00:51:15 Closing & Where to Find Jon

Jon Rickards – Website

Jonathan Mahrt – LinkedIn | Instagram | Website

Links to all books mentioned on the show

Thank you for joining us on this episode of On the Flywheel! If you enjoyed our discussion, please rate, follow, share, and review our podcast. Your support helps us continue to bring you insightful conversations with inspiring guests. Until next time, keep building momentum in your personal and professional lives!

In this episode, I sit down with Adrian Gould, Practice Director at Robert Half, for a conversation about career pivots, productivity, and the evolving world of accounting and finance consulting. Adrian shares how he went from managing rental car branches to overseeing more than 60 active projects at once, and we dive into trends shaping the labor market today—from AI’s growing influence to why companies are running leaner than ever.

• Career trajectories don’t need to be linear
• Project-based staffing is on the rise
• Time-blocking is Adrian’s productivity superpower
• AI is reshaping accounting & finance teams
• Companies are running leaner
• Hiring is increasingly filtered by AI tools
• LinkedIn remains Adrian's top networking tool
• The labor market is cyclical
• ERP and accounting system upgrades are everywhere
• Don’t fear change

00:00 Welcome to the podcast; Jonathan introduces guest Adrian Gould.

01:20 From business school to Enterprise Rent-A-Car and into recruiting at Robert Half.

06:45 Overview of the company’s structure, specializations, and consulting partnership with Protiviti.

10:20 Explaining the Loan Staff Program, consulting projects, and client engagement.

13:40 Stories from the field: acquisitions, ERP implementations, fires, surprises, and project chaos.

20:00 NetSuite, Dynamics, Intacct, Workday—what companies choose and why.

24:30 Success factors and unexpected challenges that derail initiatives.

28:50 Why companies bring in outside help.

30:20 Adrian’s workflow, Salesforce notes, and time-blocking system.

36:45 How he builds flexibility into his schedule without losing focus.

39:50 How much is inbound vs. self-generated, cold calling tactics, and LinkedIn strategy.

46:00 AI’s impact, layoffs, efficiency, and role elevation in finance teams.

51:40 Resume tailoring, ATS screening, mistakes to avoid.

57:00 Observations from San Francisco and beyond.

1:01:30 Books, dad jokes, and wisdom for a billboard: don’t fear change.

Adrian Gould – LinkedIn | Website

Jonathan Mahrt – LinkedIn | Instagram | Website

Links to all books mentioned on the show

Thank you for joining us on this episode of On the Flywheel! If you enjoyed our discussion, please rate, follow, share, and review our podcast. Your support helps us continue to bring you insightful conversations with inspiring guests. Until next time, keep building momentum in your personal and professional lives!

In this conversation, John Rushworth from Spark Plug Marketing shares his journey from startups to establishing a successful digital marketing agency. He discusses the importance of helping small businesses succeed, common mistakes they make in digital marketing, and how to maximize their online presence.

• John's family has a long history in farming and marketing.
• He started Spark Plug Marketing to help small businesses succeed.
• Common mistakes include underutilizing assets like email lists and social media.
• Clients typically see returns within three months of working with Spark Plug Marketing.
• Maintaining an active online presence is crucial for small businesses.
• AI is changing the landscape of digital marketing.
• Google search ads provide the best ROI for small businesses.
• Effective budgeting is key to successful marketing campaigns.
• Influencer marketing can be a powerful tool for small businesses.
• Physical exercise can enhance mental clarity and productivity.

Family Legacy in Farming and Marketing 00:00:00

The Journey to Spark Plug Marketing 00:03:10

Helping Small Businesses Succeed 00:06:05

Common Mistakes in Digital Marketing 00:09:05

Maximizing Online Presence 00:12:02

The Impact of AI on Marketing 00:14:58

Finding Value in Ad Spend 00:17:56

Tools and Processes for Success 00:20:57

Unique Selling Points of Spark Plug Marketing 00:23:45

Leveraging Social Media Platforms 00:26:58

Influencer Marketing Strategies 00:29:48

Budgeting for Digital Marketing 00:33:00

Advice for Budget-Constrained Businesses 00:36:05

Final Thoughts and Recommendations 00:38:49

John Rushworth – Website

Jonathan Mahrt – LinkedIn | Instagram | Website

Links to all books mentioned on the show

Thank you for joining us on this episode of On the Flywheel! If you enjoyed our discussion, please rate, follow, share, and review our podcast. Your support helps us continue to bring you insightful conversations with inspiring guests. Until next time, keep building momentum in your personal and professional lives!

In this conversation, Bill Vick, a Vistage Chair, discusses the importance of peer networks for business leaders, the role of accountability in driving growth, and the challenges faced by business owners today. He emphasizes the value of strategic planning, community connection, and the impact of AI on the business landscape. Vick shares insights on how Vistage helps members navigate these challenges and highlights the importance of caring for employees and fostering a supportive business environment.

• Vistage is the largest peer network in the world.
• Isolation is a common challenge for CEOs.
• Accountability can significantly boost business performance.
• Strategic planning is essential for long-term success.
• Understanding business valuation is crucial for owners.
• Regulatory challenges can threaten small businesses.
• Community involvement enhances business success.
• AI presents both opportunities and risks for businesses.
• Peer support is vital for personal and professional growth.
• Caring for employees is a priority for successful leaders.

Introduction to Vistage and Bill Vick 00:00:00

The Role of a Vistage Chair 00:02:43

The Power of Peer Networks 00:05:57

Accountability and Growth in Business 00:08:45

Strategic Planning and Business Valuation 00:11:48

Common Challenges for Business Owners 00:14:44

Navigating Regulations and Employee Relations 00:18:01

The Importance of Community and Connection 00:20:55

AI and Its Impact on Business 00:23:53

Final Thoughts and Recommendations 00:26:49

Bill Vick – Website | LinkedIn

Jonathan Mahrt – LinkedIn | Instagram | Website

Links to all books mentioned on the show

Thank you for joining us on this episode of On the Flywheel! If you enjoyed our discussion, please rate, follow, share, and review our podcast. Your support helps us continue to bring you insightful conversations with inspiring guests. Until next time, keep building momentum in your personal and professional lives!

In this engaging conversation, Kathleen Stafford shares her diverse career journey, from her early days at Wells Fargo to her experiences in the restaurant business and her current role as a realtor. She reflects on the importance of family, the challenges of navigating career changes, and the lessons learned along the way. The discussion emphasizes the value of hard work, independence, and the impact of personal experiences on shaping one's life path.

• We are the sum of our experiences and the roads we've taken.
• It's never too late to start over and try something new.
• The importance of family and being present in children's lives.
• Navigating career changes can lead to unexpected opportunities.
• Running a restaurant is both rewarding and physically demanding.
• Teaching financial literacy to kids is crucial.
• The balance between work and family life is essential.
• Embracing independence and allowing children to find their own paths.
• Life is about making choices based on circumstances.
• Nothing easy is worth having; hard work is essential.

Journey Through Life's Roads 00:00:00

Navigating Career Changes 00:10:03

The Restaurant Experience 00:19:50

Lessons in Parenting and Independence 00:29:53

Reflections on Life and Wisdom 00:39:55

Katherine Stafford - LinkedIn | Website

Jonathan Mahrt – LinkedIn | Instagram | Website

Links to all books mentioned on the show

Thank you for joining us for this episode of On the Flywheel! If you enjoyed our discussion, please rate, follow, share, and review our podcast. Your support helps us continue to bring you insightful conversations with inspiring guests. Until next time, keep building momentum in your personal and professional lives!

In this engaging conversation, Sean Langwell shares his journey from a corporate career in sales and marketing to becoming an author and confidence coach. He discusses the importance of maintaining a beginner's mindset, the process of writing and self-publishing his books, and introduces his five-step method for building confidence and overcoming fear. The conversation emphasizes the significance of taking bold actions, the value of accountability, and the necessity of introspection in personal and professional growth.

Introduction to Sean Langwell and His Journey 00:00

The Journey to Becoming an Author 04:29

The Five-Step Method for Building Confidence 09:51

The Importance of Taking Action 21:08

Real-Life Applications of the Five-Step Method 28:02

Advice for Those Feeling Stuck 37:02

Conclusion and Final Thoughts 45:05

• Sean Langwell has over 33 years of experience in sales and marketing.
• His journey to becoming an author was inspired by personal experiences and a desire to help others.
• The five-step method includes identifying problems, deciding what you want, understanding your why, making a plan, and working the plan.
• Taking action often requires just 10 seconds of boldness.
• Failure is a valuable teacher that can lead to growth and learning.
• Comfort can lead to complacency, hindering personal growth.
• Accountability is crucial for achieving goals and overcoming challenges.
• Self-reflection and introspection are key to understanding one's desires and motivations.
• Networking and immersing oneself in desired fields can provide clarity and opportunities.
• Life is too short to let fear dictate your actions.

Shawn Langwell – Website | LinkedIn

Jonathan Mahrt – LinkedIn | Instagram | Website

Links to all books mentioned on the show

Thank you for joining us on this episode of On the Flywheel! If you enjoyed our discussion, please rate, follow, share, and review our podcast. Your support helps us continue to bring you insightful conversations with inspiring guests. Until next time, keep building momentum in your personal and professional lives!