In a recent episode of Unconventional Wisdom About Conventional Wisdom, Kim Miller-Hershon sat down with Becky Brown, founder of Stride Services, for a refreshingly honest conversation about leadership, growth, and the choices that shape a business.
Becky didn’t set out to be a founder—she started Stride in 2008 after leaving a corporate job that no longer aligned with her values. What began as a solo bookkeeping operation quickly evolved into something more: a fully remote accounting and advisory firm that now supports clients nationwide. Along the way, Becky made bold decisions, navigated a company sale and buyback, and redefined what it means to build a business that works for her team, her clients, and her life.
Becky and Kim’s conversation gives a quick glimpse into the realities of entrepreneurship—and why success isn’t always about scale or speed, but about staying aligned and making proactive, value-based decisions.
Key Takeaways
1. Growth Doesn’t Require a Sales Team
Becky challenged the notion that scaling a business demands hiring a large sales force. For her, growth has come from direct conversations and fit-driven client onboarding. She and her partner speak with every prospect to ensure the relationship aligns with their services and values.
2. Clear Boundaries Make Business Healthier
Early on, Becky learned the cost of bad-fit clients. Rather than bending processes or deliverables to please everyone, she’s focused on staying in her lane and sticking to the value Stride provides. This approach helps maintain clarity internally and builds trust externally.
3. Time Management Requires Prioritization, Not Perfection
Managing a 20-person team across the country, Becky has had to evolve how she approaches time. She’s working on improving focus by reducing distractions, batch-processing emails, and experimenting with AI tools that streamline admin work.
4. Action Beats Waiting for Permission
One of Becky’s core leadership philosophies is to move forward boldly. She encourages her team to act first—making decisions rooted in integrity and best judgment—and course-correct as needed, rather than waiting for constant approval.
5. Imposter Syndrome Still Shows Up
Even as a seasoned founder, Becky admits that doubts still surface—especially in sales conversations or with larger clients. What helps is looking back at similar challenges she’s already navigated and staying grounded in her experience and impact.
6. Profit and Purpose Aren’t Opposites
Becky believes that business success doesn’t have to come at the expense of values. She actively supports causes and local businesses that matter to her while running a profitable company. For her, mission and margin go hand in hand.
7. Collaboration is Stronger than Competition
With an abundance mindset, Becky has built supportive relationships with other accountants and firms—even those who serve similar clients. She sees collaboration as a way to ensure clients find the right fit, not as a threat to her business.
Final Thoughts
Becky’s journey is a powerful reminder that there’s no one-size-fits-all approach to leadership. What matters is building with intention, leading with clarity, and staying aligned with your values. Whether you’re a solo founder or managing a growing team, her perspective invites you to challenge assumptions, trust your instincts, and design a business that works—for you and your clients.
🎥 Want to watch the full conversation?
About Kim Miller-Hershon Coaching & Consulting, Inc.:
Led by Kim Miller-Hershon, this leadership consulting firm helps founders, executives, and professionals deepen their impact through strategic coaching, communication tools, and bold mindset shifts.
Learn more at www.kimmillerhershon.com.
About Stride Services
Stride Services is a comprehensive financial partner for MSPs, providing outsourced bookkeeping, tax, and advisory services designed to improve clarity, support confident decision-making, and eliminate financial fire drills. Whether you need monthly accounting support or proactive tax guidance, Stride helps you stay on track and plan for what’s next.
To learn more, visit www.stride.services.
