Ep 13 -Oops, I Missed a Tax Filing: Lessons in Transparency + Accountability
Episode Summary:
In this episode, host Audrey Heesch talks openly about making mistakes in business. She shares a story about how she recently realized she failed to file the final year of taxes for her nonprofit organization. Audrey discusses how easy it can be to miss things like administrative tasks when you're focused on other areas of business. She emphasizes taking personal accountability as the business owner, even if you delegate tasks. Audrey advises not playing the blame game, but rather learning from mistakes and taking the next best step. The episode focuses on leading with integrity, being transparent, and doing your best despite being human and fallible.
Show Notes:
Audrey started a nonprofit during the pandemic to provide care packages to frontline workers. She struggled with fundraising and admits she failed at running the nonprofit.
Audrey got her 501(c)(3) status on her own and tried doing the taxes herself at first. The IRS sent back her filing, so she handed it over to her CPA.
As Audrey was recently gathering documents for personal and business taxes, she realized the final year of her nonprofit taxes never got filed.
Audrey shares the importance of opening all your mail to stay on top of business obligations. She got a letter from the IRS stating she needed to file taxes.
Even if you delegate tasks, the business owner is ultimately responsible. Blaming others doesn't help.
Admit mistakes openly, take accountability, learn, and move forward. Don't let shame or blame spiral.
Audrey advises thinking like a CEO - look at the lessons when things go wrong and take the next best step.
Filing taxes and other admin tasks are not fun but critical. They keep you legally compliant.
Lead with integrity and transparency. You'll inevitably make mistakes but you can course correct.