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. Success is rarely achieved alone, and continuous improvement is at the heart of what we do. In this 2nd episode of Unscripted: Living Our Core Values, Lance Mann and Justin Hubbard discuss Dean Dorton's core values of Collaboration and Growth, highlighting how teamwork, learning, and innovation help drive both individual and firm success. Join us as they share experiences and perspectives on working together, embracing new opportunities, and growing with purpose.

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 workplace? In the first episode of our Unscripted special two-part series about our core values, Jason Miller and Elizabeth Woodward explore Dean Dorton's core values of Integrity and Relationships, sharing insights on how these principles shape our culture, strengthen client partnerships, and influence the decisions we make every day. Tune in for a candid conversation about trust, accountability, and the importance of putting people first.

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 goals for the engagement and what success ultimately looks like. Beyond the firm, the conversation zooms out to tackle the bigger picture of AI. With so many headlines, tools, and opinions flooding the space, Jon offers a grounded perspective on how to separate signal from noise—what's worth paying attention to, what can be ignored, and how to stay focused amid constant change. The episode wraps with a forward-looking discussion on where AI is going and, more importantly, what individuals and organizations should be doing now—and over the next year—to stay ahead. Whether you're AI-curious or already experimenting, this episode delivers practical insight without the hype.

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 a closer look at the role communication played in the rollout—how a thoughtful, intentional approach is helping drive awareness and engagement across the firm.

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 manual processes to reporting gaps and integration headaches. We discuss what life looks like before and after modern financial systems, why waiting makes the problem worse, and how DD team members can recognize "here's your sign" moments early. If you've ever sensed that a client's systems are holding them back but weren't sure what to do next, this episode is for you.

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 update on the firm's vision and strategy following our recent All Firm meeting, offering insight into where the work stands today and what's taking shape behind the scenes. Looking ahead, he discusses what the firm can expect in the coming months, what excites him most about this next chapter, and how we can continue to support one another as we look ahead to the new year.

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 opportunities. A great listen to wrap up the year and look ahead to what's possible in 2026!

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 how the program is shaping their approach to leadership at Dean Dorton. Tune in for an authentic conversation about growth, confidence, and what it means to lead with purpose.

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 strengthens entire teams and organizations. Join us for an inspiring conversation about building leaders who lift others up and create lasting impact.

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 moments. Beyond his professional expertise, Josh opens up about a topic he's deeply passionate about—mental health. He talks candidly about why prioritizing mental well-being is essential for both individual success and organizational health, and how he strives lead by example so that team members feel supported, balanced, and valued. This conversation is equal parts professional wisdom and personal reflection—don't miss it!

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 about his journey.

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 countdown of our Top 10 Things That Remind Us of Summer. Whether you're a sports fan, a summer enthusiast, or just curious about Kylea's incredible story, this episode has a little something for everyone. Tune in and get inspired for the season ahead!

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't want to miss it!

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 of the way.

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.

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 your first time hearing those terms or you just need a refresher, this episode is here to help you feel more confident navigating your benefits.

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, give back, and connect through service. Learn about the volunteer opportunities available and how to get involved! Whether you've volunteered before or are curious about where to start, this episode is packed with inspiration, practical details, and stories that highlight the power of service and connection.

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 tend to these challenging times personally while also balancing our work life?  In Episode 2, we discuss the topic of grief and loss. In this episode we explore reactive ways to navigate times in our life when we experience death or loss. We unpack what grief is, what to expect, and how to respect and experience the unique process of grieving. This is a series you won't want to miss!

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 tend to these challenging times personally while also balancing our work life?  In Episode 1, we discuss mental wellness through a proactive lens. We talk about ways to maintain our mental health and how to manage stress, and anxiety before things get too difficult to confront. We also talk about pathways of help when things are overwhelming.  This is a series you won't want to miss!

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 conversation is one you won't want to miss.

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 culture of continuous learning!

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-drive-time" length.  *Unless you are driving from the Raleigh office to the Indianapolis office which in that case, you'll get to listen to the same episode about 41 times. So grab a cup of eggnog, cozy up by the fire, and celebrate the season with the jolly sounds of the "Unscripted Podcast". It's the gift that keeps on giving the whole year long Clark.  Happy Holidays!

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.

In this final installment of our special video podcast series, we are transported to North Carolina to get a tour of our Raleigh office. Listen here or visit the intranet home page to watch the video tour!

In this 4th episode of our special Unscripted Video Podcast series, we meet up in our Indianapolis office. Take a listen here, or a watch on the intranet homepage!

1In this episode, guest host Vanessa Vargo takes us through the Louisville office to showcase the space and chat with team members about what makes the Louisville office special.

In our second installment of our Unscripted video podcast series, we head to the Ft. Wright office for a tour. For the full experience, head over to the intranet where you can find this video on the home page!

In this first installment of an exciting new video podcast series, guest host Alyssa Yozwiak takes us  on a tour of the Lexington office, stopping by to chat with team members along the way. Find the audio here - for the full video experience, visit the Dean Dorton intranet home page!

In this special installment of Unscripted, COO Chris Hahn joins David at the close of our spring busy season to say thank you to everyone for their hard work over the last few months. They also dive into what team members can expect as we move into the summer months - including performance management, budgeting, integration, and strategy. 

In this episode of Unscripted, David sits down with Business Development Director Jenny Patterson to discuss our approach to new business development in light of our recent merge. Jenny also provides an update on our new website!

In this episode of Unscripted, David Bundy is joined by COO Chris Hahn to discuss our plans for leadership development at Dean Dorton, including an introduction to the Future Leaders program.

In this latest episode of our Unscripted podcast, David is joined by Ed McGillis to discuss the topic that is at the forefront of many minds in our industry: AI. Ed, who is a Data & AI Consulting Associate Director at Dean Dorton, discusses the different areas of AI with a focus on generative AI. He talks about the trends he is seeing, how generative AI this will impact our clients, and the  opportunities that we have to help our clients. A not-to-be-missed episode!

In this episode of Unscripted, David talks through the way that our firm makes decisions: from the service group leaders managing the services, staffing, and culture of their teams, to market leaders working on strategy, growth, and employee engagement, to the function of the Board of Directors and the CEO. David also gives a preview of what you can look forward to from the Unscripted podcast in the coming months!

In today's episode of the Unscripted podcast, David discusses some busy season reminders and looks forward to what you can expect of the podcast in 2024. He also gives a well deserved shout out to our Healthcare team!

In our 60th episode of Unscripted, David is joined by Director of Private Wealth Management Diego Vallota. David and Diego discuss our wealth management services and what is on the horizon for our wealth management group. Diego also provides valuable tips about what to look for and how to approach the conversation when a team member may have a potential client referral. 

In this first 2024 episode of the Unscripted podcast, David is joined by marketing and business development team members Jenny Patterson and Kristin Butler to discuss the soon-to-arrive updated Dean Dorton website. Jenny and Kristin talk through the importance of the user experience and how it relates to the business side of our firm.

In this holiday special episode, guest host Liz Young sits down with COO Chris Hahn and Lexington AOM Haley Snyder to discuss their holiday traditions and how they plan to spend the break.

In this episode of Unscripted, David sits down with VonLehman Managing Partner Adam Davey. We hear about the different services and industries that will benefit from our merger, and we learn a bit more about the VonLehman team that is joining us. Welcome, Adam and all our new team members!!

In this special Thanksgiving episode of Unscripted, team members join to tell us what they are most thankful for.

In today's episode, David sits down with CareWorks' Todd Layne to discuss the subject of change. Following our recent announcement, Todd provides some insight on the best ways to approach change - whether it be personal life change or change in the workplace - and offer some tools to help us navigate those changes.

In this installment of our Unscripted podcast, David welcomes new Chief Operating Officer Chris Hahn to the firm. 

In the last of our Market Leader Conversations, David sits down in the studio with Raleigh market leader Jason Miller. Jason discusses not only Dean Dorton's growth goals in Raleigh, but the general growth in the Raleigh area and how it will impact the firm. And of course, no conversation about our North Carolina market would be complete without a little basketball talk!

David Bundy is joined by Lexington Market Leader Elizabeth Woodward in this continuation of our market leader conversation series. Elizabeth gives an overview of the Lexington office, our industry focuses, and the clients that we serve. Elizabeth also talks about the growth areas we are currently targeting.

12In this installment of the Unscripted podcast, David is joined by newly named Louisville Market Leader Lance Mann. David and Lance discuss the evolution of the Louisville market to date,  current growth in the market, and the areas in which they would like to see Louisville grow in the future.

In our last Leadership Conversation pod, Tax Manager Alyssa Yozwiak sits down with Director Joe Johnston. They discuss his move to Raleigh, his history in public accounting, and his perfect vacation (and more!)

In this installment of Unscripted, we return to our Leadership Conversation Series! Gina Whitis sits down with AFO Director Justin Hubbard to discuss his thoughts on the future of AI and how it will impact AFO. They also talk about Justin's favorite outdoor hobbies, his recommended reading list, and who wins: Marvel vs. DC edition.

In this first of FY 2024 Unscripted podcast episode, guest host Liz Young sits down with HR Associate Director Jeff Ricketts to discuss all things Dean Dorton University. Hear upcoming changes to expect and helpful hints for how to approach your learning in the new fiscal year.

12Associate Director Missy DeArk takes the microphone in this latest episode of our Unscripted Conversation Series, interviewing Litigation and Forensic Director Elizabeth Woodward. They talk about Elizabeth's path to forensic accounting, as well as likes, dislikes, summer plans - and her distate for pineapple pizza.