The Authentic Advisor

If AI has “read every book” and advisory is rapidly moving into what Ritz Steytler calls a “post-knowledge world” how are advisors going to deliver value for clients? In this episode of The Authentic Advisor, Ritz explains why the future of advisory will depend on judgment, presence, implementation and the quality of the questions advisors ask. Drawing on 30 years building technology businesses an...

Why Teams Aren't Performing (And How Advisors Can Actually Help Fix Them). Everyone's busy. But busy isn't the same as effective and right now, most teams are doing a lot of the former while quietly losing grip on the latter. Cameron Geddes has spent close to two decades working inside teams across health, government and corporate organisations. In this episode he gives a frank, no-flu...

Accounting and professional service firms looking to scale client advisory services (CAS) are facing a structural shift. This episode examines what is required to move beyond packaged reporting and into commercially viable advisory. Dixie McCurley draws a clear line between activity and value. Most firms have invested in tools, dashboards and outsourced finance layers. Few have reworked how they t...

Drawing on experience from professional rugby coaching and leadership advisory work, Neil Tunnah explores what defines elite leaders: the ability to create clarity under pressure, make decisions quickly, and build genuine connection with the people they lead. Discussing with James Mason the role of self-awareness, reflection, and understanding personal strengths as key drivers of sustained perform...

Business advisory is shifting fast and the firms, coaches & consultants that thrive are the ones who turn strategy into execution. James Mason sits down with Kym Arnold, Senior Manager at Lincoln’s, Western Australia to unpack her journey into advisory and what drives results for clients. From real accountability in implementation to lifting internal team capability, Kym shares practical insig...

In a master class on how to attract high-value referrals Matt Heemstra talks about the importance of clarity, capability, and capacity. He stresses knowing your ideal client, and your ideal self as an advisor to avoid chasing low-value work. Mistakes like assuming old contacts will automatically refer you or failing toask for referrals are common. Success comes from using precise language, sharing...

With many advisors heading into the new year feeling the impact of burnout, distraction and constant change, James Mason sits down with Mindshop Expert Mike Burke to cut through the noise and unpack what high performers are doing differently. Mike shares his insights on three non-negotiables for advisors right now: staying relevant, protecting energy and maintaining a growth mindset. He highlights...

Unpacking the pivotal role of branding in helping business advisors attract the right clients and referrals, Tina Robertson joins James Mason to discuss how a well-defined brand builds trust and credibility in a crowded market. They explore how business advisors and professional service firms can align brand messaging with market positioning, outlining a strategic approach to brand development, an...

What does it take to build an advisory offering that truly adds value to clients and drives firm growth? In this episode of The Authentic Advisor , James Mason talks with Renee Bettenay, Director at Harris Black, about the journey of developing and scaling a business advisory service line. Together, they explore client-centric growth, overcoming common challenges, and equipping teams with the righ...

Drawing on stories from firms around the world, in this episode of the Authentic Advisor, James Mason speaks with Abu Bakkar, Chief Innovation Officer at HLB International, about the critical role of innovation in professional services. They discuss innovation as a continuous journey, the balance between pushing boundaries and maintaining client relevance, and the impact of AI and ESG on the indus...

In this powerful episode of  The Authentic Advisor , James Mason is joined by Mindshop founder Dr. Chris Mason, who challenges the conventional notion of retirement for business advisors. At nearly 76, Chris is not slowing down - he’s accelerating ahead, and with purpose.  Together, they explore why the traditional "on one day, off the next" retirement mindset may no longer serve modern advisors,...

Unlocking human potential takes more than performance hacks - it demands a mindset shift. Samantha Shaw, Director, The Anderson Partnership and James Mason, Managing Director, Mindshop cut through the noise, exploring how today’s most effective advisors and coaches are moving beyond “peak performance” toward a more balanced, human-centred approach. From building trust and using curiosity as a coac...

Dan shares his real-world experience leading six-figure programs that combine group workshops, one-on-one coaching, and digital learning. Dan unpacks what works (and what doesn’t) when trying to engage busy professionals, why starting with time management is critical, and how to tier program intensity to match participants’ capabilities and roles. In this episode of The Authentic Advisor , James M...

Offshoring is no longer just a strategy - it’s a leadership challenge. Establishing a team overseas takes more than logistics and cost calculations; it demands cultural awareness, intentional leadership, and a long-term vision. This episode explores the journey of building an offshore team in the Philippines, why the move was made, the growing pains along the way, and how deep integration became t...

Facilitating your own firm’s strategic planning retreat can present some unique challenges & opportunities. In this episode of the Authentic Advisor, James Mason interviews Dianna Larkin, a partner at McCay Duff, about her journey in strategic planning and advisory services. Dianna shares her entrepreneurial background, the culture at McCay Duff, and her experience transitioning to a DIY appro...

Taking a deep dive into the evolving landscape of talent acquisition and retention, James Mason is joined by Andrew Thoseby, CEO at 1st Executive to discuss emerging trends, innovative technologies, and the importance of engagement in leadership roles. They explore how organisations can adapt to the changing expectations of candidates, particularly in the wake of the pandemic, and provide insights...

Family businesses play a vital role in the economy, and face unique challenges. In this episode of The Authentic Advisor, James Mason speaks with Catherine Sayer, CEO of the Family Business Association, about how advisors can effectively support them. Catherine shares her journey, the importance of communication and trust in family businesses, and the critical need for succession planning. The con...

In this episode of the Authentic Advisor, Lindsay Thomas and James Mason discuss the concept of building a 'Second Brain' and its importance for business advisors. They explore how this framework can enhance productivity and innovation by capturing and organising ideas effectively. The conversation delves into the practical implementation, including the CODE method (Capture, Organise, Distill, Exp...

In this episode of the Authentic Advisor, James Mason and Andrew Cooke discuss the transformative role of artificial intelligence (AI) in business advisory services. Andrew shares his journey from technology to business advisory, emphasising the importance of understanding AI's capabilities and limitations. The conversation covers practical applications of AI, common misconceptions, necessary skil...

Host James Mason interviews Stephen Grant, partner at Azets, UK about his journey in business advisory and the launch of the Boost Business Advisory Initiative, which aims to enhance client performance through tailored advisory services. He discusses the challenges of balancing existing responsibilities with new initiatives, the importance of internal training and mindset transformation, and the f...

In this episode of the Authentic Advisor, James Mason discusses competitive advantage with Jonathan Coles and Iain Good from Premiumisation Partners. They explore the importance of understanding customer value, defining competitive advantages, and aligning team perspectives to enhance business success. The conversation emphasises the need for businesses to engage with their customers, challenge in...

In this episode of The Authentic Advisor, James Mason and Shabir Ladha discuss insights on networking for success and how too much can be just as bad as not enough. Shabir shares his journey to becoming an advisor and the importance of networking in his role, emphasizing the need for authenticity, meaningful conversations, and setting goals when networking. James & Shabir discuss the pitfalls...

In this episode, James Mason interviews Kim Marshall from WK Advisors and Accountants in Christchurch, New Zealand, about her insights on cutting through with business advisory services in a regional market. Kim shares her background and journey to becoming an advisor, including her experience managing a sheep and beef farm while doing advisory work. She discusses the challenges and opportunities...

Peter Longhurst, a long-time Mindshop advisor, shares his wisdom on the keys to happiness and success in business and life with Mindshop’s James Mason. He discusses his journey from accounting to advisory, the impact of his book 'A Simple Thank You,' and the importance of core values and client-centricity. He emphasises the power of listening, simplicity, and the concept of 'value to o...

Chris Black, a Director of Advisory Business, Purpa, shares insights on mental health challenges and leadership. He discusses the impact of mental health on business, the role of leaders in addressing mental health, and practical strategies for mitigating negative impacts. The conversation emphasises the importance of vulnerability, empathy, and creating a safe space for conversations around menta...