As we stand on the cusp of a new year, the Finance Leader Podcast invites listeners to join Stephen McLain in transforming annual resolutions into meaningful strategies for 2025. The episode is a guide for those looking to harness their leadership potential and chart a path to success. Stephen shares invaluable insights into setting concrete goals aligned with career aspirations, whether you're aiming for a CFO role, launching a business, or amplifying your leadership skills. The episode offers a deep reflection on the past year, encouraging listeners to use their experiences as a springboard for future growth.

Reflecting on the challenges and triumphs of 2024, Stephen emphasizes the importance of deliberate planning and accountability. He acknowledges that while some may have thrived, others may have simply endured, which is perfectly acceptable. He shares his personal journey, noting how tough moments can test character and resilience. This reflection serves as a foundation for...

Welcome to the latest episode of the Finance Leader Podcast, where we embark on a journey to turn New Year’s aspirations into SMART financial leadership goals for 2024. As the new year unfolds, many of us are fueled by the promise of fresh starts and the potential for transformation. However, too often, New Year's resolutions fall by the wayside, lost in the shuffle of daily demands and unexpected challenges. The solution? SMART goal planning.

As financial leaders, we must align our professional ambitions with personal dreams, taking into account family and other considerations. The process of goal planning requires us to dissect why resolutions tend to dissipate quickly and to adopt a structured approach to goal setting.

The SMART method is central to our discussion. Specific, Measurable, Achievable, Relevant, and Time-bound goals provide a framework for success that can guide us through the entire year. This methodology not only helps us set our sights on what we aim to...