Mike Barrett as a C.P.A. and partner with Mazanec, Bauer and Associates, P.L.C., is back in the studio for a second of three mentoring sessions. Our first session focused on the 25^th anniversary of the world wide web coinciding with Mike’s 25 years as a C.P.A. He started with Mazanec, Bauer and Associates, P.L.C. as an intern, and never left the 9-person firm based in Eagan, Minnesota.

We learn of his upbringing in West Saint Paul, Minnesota and how, as a hockey coach for his son, growing up is different. His parents still live in his childhood home. In the 70s children had much more freedom to roam and structure their own summer days.

Creative thinking and curiosity motivates Mike to help his clients save money. He can easily get on board with a new idea when there is a better way of practicing accounting and when he can see how it will benefit those he serves.

The examples he shares reveals a depth of character that only comes from strong, steady, and thoughtful leadership. A solid framework for ethical decision making. Join us to learn more.

In our third mentoring session airing October 24^th, you will hear of his life with Rochelle and their three children, early education changes in the State of Minnesota, how they parent, and financial tips for business owners.

Mentoring Tips:

This week, answer these questions. How do you identify with Mike’s upbringing? How did you grow up? How does one work in an environment where cooperation is needed and competition exists to gain partnership, coopetition?

Does coopetition exist in either the work environment you created or the work environment you are in? If coopetition does exist where you need to cooperate and compete with co-workers, how do you manage the dichotomy between the two, and have a good working relationship with peers?

Coopetition is a topic to discuss with your peers. Get their insight and perspective. Name the elephant in the room. There is freedom in having an open discussion. Experience it for yourself.

Download this episode. (right click to download)

Strong, Quiet, Steady, Thoughtful Leadership, Episode #42 www.mazanecbauer.com

Next Monday’s Mentoring Conversation:

Stevie Ray, Minnesota’s comedy and improvisation historian, started his career producing comedy shows in 1989 at a club in Uptown. What is he up to? This 1^st of 3 mentoring sessions is packed with history and ways to use improvisation in your everyday life. Be ready to take notes.

www.stevieray.org