In this final part of my interview with Dave Hartley in episode #74, we dove deep into the heart of what it means to thrive in today’s accounting world. From mastering work-life balance to embracing authenticity and staying future-ready, Dave brought wisdom earned over a 30-year career—and delivered it with heart.
Highlights & Takeaways:
- You don’t have to burn out to succeed in public accounting.
- Your career is what you shape it to be—through intentional decisions and self-awareness.
- The future of accounting is bright—if you’re willing to adapt, connect, and grow.
Finding Balance Without Burning Out
I asked Dave whether returning to public accounting meant going back to 70-hour weeks. His response was clear:
“No, I don’t. It goes back to being intentional about how you’re going to spend your time.”
He emphasized protecting weekends for rest and recovery—not just for personal wellness but for better performance during the week. Dave also stressed the importance of being a role model, proving you can be a successful CPA and a present parent and spouse.
Learning from Mistakes and Growing Through Challenges
Dave shared that his twenties were filled with personal challenges—like anxiety and the pressure to have everything figured out.
“I made a lot of mistakes… I dealt with anxiety, I dealt with depression. But it all worked out. I’ve had a great career, and I’m totally blessed with my family.”
His honesty reminds us that struggles don’t disqualify you—they build you. Knowing what brings you joy, what drains you, and what you value most is the real key to success.
Bring Your Whole Self to the Profession
Dave introduced the idea of “What’s Your And?”—a mindset coined by John Garrett, which celebrates what makes each CPA unique.
“I’m a huge music guy. I don’t produce music—I consume it. And I’ve used that passion to connect with clients and colleagues.”
From loving Earth, Wind & Fire to attending concerts with his kids, Dave explained how your “And” can fuel both your life and career. The profession has changed—it’s no longer about fitting into a rigid mold. Today, you’re encouraged to be your authentic self.
Top 3 Career Tips from Dave Hartley
To wrap up, Dave shared three key pieces of advice:
- Technical skills matter, but soft skills win
Communication, critical thinking, and empathy are what set you apart. - Embrace technology
Be the one who volunteers for the new tech project. It will future-proof your career. - Enjoy the journey
Don’t fall into the comparison trap. You’re growing. Keep showing up, and don’t give up.
Your Next Step
If this episode inspired you, don’t stop here.
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And don’t forget—connect with Dave Hartley on LinkedIn. He’s sharing game-changing insights on leadership, accounting trends, and more.
Catch the full conversation in Podcast Episode #74—it’s one you don’t want to miss.