Unscripted

Dean Dorton's modernized core values are more than words on a page—they guide how we work, serve our clients, and support one another every day. In this two-part Unscripted series, firm leaders share their perspectives on what our values mean, why they matter, and how they come to life across the organization.  What does it mean to do the right thing and build meaningful connections in today's wor...

Dean Dorton's modernized core values are more than words on a page—they guide how we work, serve our clients, and support one another every day. In this two-part Unscripted series, firm leaders share their perspectives on what our values mean, why they matter, and how they come to life across the organization. Success is rarely achieved alone, and continuous improvement is at the heart of what we...

In this episode of Unscripted , we sit down with Chief AI Officer Jon Adams to talk about what AI really looks like inside an organization—and where it's headed next. Jon shares an inside look at his work with Dean Dorton, including how the firm has built out its AI Leadership group and AI Champions network, what's already been accomplished, and what's still on the horizon. He also discusses his g...

In this episode of Unscripted , Chris and Liz sit down with Jayna Newcomer and James Wood to explore the recent enhancements to Dean Dorton Central and the strategy behind bringing those changes to life. From reimagining how information is organized to improving the overall user experience, Jayna and James share the "why" behind the updates and what they mean for our teams day-to-day. We also take...

On this episode of Unscripted , we're joined by Philip Massey to talk about a common—but often overlooked—client challenge: outgrowing accounting software. As organizations grow, complexity increases—and entry-level or legacy systems can quietly become roadblocks. Philip shares the key warning signs that a client's system is creating more frustration than insight, from heavy Excel reliance and man...

We're kicking off 2026 with a special episode of Unscripted , welcoming Jason Miller as he officially steps into his role as President & CEO of Dean Dorton. In this candid conversation, Jason reflects on his first weeks fully in the CEO seat—sharing how he's doing, what's encouraged him most, and where he's feeling both momentum and challenge as he leads the firm forward. Jason also provides an up...

In our final Unscripted episode of 2025, we're joined by AFO Manager Emily Anderson, who shares her experience recording a professional podcast episode with our learning and development partner, LumiQ. Emily walks us through how the opportunity came about, what the recording process was like, and why she encourages other team members to step outside their comfort zones and say "yes" to similar opp...

In this episode of Unscripted , Chris and Liz are joined by Abby Riggs and Mike Ballenger, two recent graduates of the Dean Dorton Leadership Academy. Abby and Mike share candid reflections on their DDLA experience—from the sessions that stretched their thinking to the lessons that will stay with them long after graduation. They discuss the skills they honed, the moments that resonated most, and h...

In this episode of  Unscripted , we're joined by Jason Miller, Dean Dorton's incoming CEO. Jason shares his excitement about the future of Dean Dorton and gives us a preview of what to expect at our upcoming firmwide meeting on October 30!

In this episode of Unscripted , we sit down with Chris Allen and Brennen Oakley from the Always About People team to talk about why leadership development matters at every stage of a career. We dive into the vision behind the Dean Dorton Leadership Academy , how it equips emerging leaders with the skills and confidence they need, and why investing in leadership doesn't just impact participants—it...

In this episode of Unscripted , we sit down with Josh Shilts, Director of Forensic and Valuation Services , to hear his unique career journey and the path that led him to become a leader in his field. Josh shares insights into the complex and fascinating world of forensic accounting and valuation, offering a behind-the-scenes look at the work he and his team do to support clients in critical momen...

In this special episode, we sit down with our Chief Operating Officer (and co-host!), Chris Hahn. From his early career milestones to the values that drive his leadership style, Chris shares his perspective on what it takes to lead with purpose at Dean Dorton. We also dive into some fun personal territory—his favorite ways to unwind, the best advice he's ever received, and what might surprise you...

In this special summer episode of Unscripted , we sit down with AFO Associate Kylea Dobson, who has an exciting season ahead—on and off the field. Kylea shares her journey to representing Team Canada in lacrosse at the upcoming PALA World Qualifiers and World Games and what it means to compete on an international stage while balancing a career in accounting. We also lighten things up with a countd...

In this unscripted episode of Unscripted , we welcome back Chief Strategy Officer, Jenny Patterson, who provides us with an update on the firm's strategy plans. Jenny shares the success that we have had in our first quarter and gives us an idea of what to expect from the road ahead. We also dive into both Jenny's career and personal journey, and learn a few surprising things along the way. You don...

In this kickoff to our three-part series on healthcare benefits, we sit down with Diana Wilson, Dean Dorton's HR Benefits and Compensation Manager, and Dustin Stacy from the BIM Group to lay the foundation. In this episode, Diana and Dustin unpack the structure of our benefits program, discuss key terms and concepts, including what it really means to be a self-funded organization. Whether this is...

In part two of our healthcare benefits series, we dig into what it means to be an empowered healthcare consumer. We are rejoined by Diana and Dustin, who talk us through the rights we have as patients, why they matter, and how understanding them can make a real difference when making healthcare decisions. From transparency to choice, we'll cover the key things every team member should know.

We wrap up our special three-part series with a powerful conversation about advocacy—specifically, how you can be your own best advocate when it comes to your healthcare. Diana and Dustin share practical tips for asking the right questions, making informed choices, and using available tools and resources to take more control over your care. It's all about feeling confident and supported every step...

In this episode of Unscripted, we're joined by Kristin Leadingham and Jay Swacker, who help lead and champion our company's Community Outreach Initiative. Together, we explore the heart behind the program—its mission, its roots, and the meaningful impact it's had on our community. We put a special spotlight on Service Week , our company-wide volunteer event that invites every employee to step up,...

The crew at Unscripted are excited to announce a new 2-part Special Edition of the Unscripted Podcast focused on a topic that is both important and relevant. Liz and Chris were able to sit down with Todd Layne from Careworks and discuss Mental and Emotional Wellness. All of us experience difficulties in our personal lives which are impossible to check at the door when we come to work. So how do we...

The crew at Unscripted are excited to announce a new 2-part Special Edition of the Unscripted Podcast focused on a topic that is both important and relevant. Liz and Chris were able to sit down with Todd Layne from Careworks and discuss Mental and Emotional Wellness. All of us experience difficulties in our personal lives which are impossible to check at the door when we come to work. So how do we...

In this special episode of Unscripted , we welcome back a familiar voice—former host David Bundy! David joins us to discuss his retirement, what led him to this big decision, and how the transition will unfold. He reflects on his journey, shares personal insights on stepping away, and gives us a glimpse into his future plans. Whether you're a longtime listener or just tuning in, this candid conver...

In our first fully virtual episode of Unscripted, People Development Senior Manager Ashley Lane joins hosts Chris and Liz to share the latest updates on learning and development at Dean Dorton. Tune in as they discuss new initiatives, professional growth opportunities, and the evolving landscape of employee development. Don't miss this insightful conversation on how Dean Dorton is fostering a cult...

Tune in to the first Unscripted episode of 2025, where hosts Chris Hahn and Liz Young sit down with Chief Strategy Officer Jenny Patterson! In this episode, Jenny provides an insightful update on our firm's strategic plan, covering the rollout and communication process, the cultural and operational impact, and what team members can look forward to in 2025.  

One of the gifts that will be delivered as a part of the vision and strategic initiatives is our internal communication strategy. Just what you asked Santa for? 🎅🎁   An important part of the strategy will be consistently delivering Dean Dorton's "Unscripted Podcast" to stay connected as we highlight important "tidings" in the firm. Our goal is to keep the episodes at a comfortable "sleigh-ride-d...

After a summer hiatus, David is back in the studio! In this episode, David talks about the continued integration of our firm, a look-forward to the market meetings, and the future of the podcast.