Making Fun While Making Money with Comedy Store CFO Bob Wheeler
Sep 17, 2024In a world where numbers and humor rarely cross paths, Shannon recently brought a refreshing blend to the table. She sat down with Bob Wheeler, an individual who seamlessly integrates the worlds of comedy and finance. As the CFO of the iconic Comedy Store and a seasoned CPA, Bob's unique journey offers a treasure trove of insights for anyone looking to make their business not only profitable but also enjoyable.
Bob Wheeler's story is as inspiring as it is unconventional. “Comedy was always my thing,” he shared, explaining how humor initially served as a protective mechanism during his youth. Bob's entry into the world of finance, however, was almost accidental. He pursued accounting to boost his GPA while considering a career in law but soon found a different calling. His knack for numbers, coupled with his love for comedy, led him to an unexpected role as the CFO of the Comedy Store, a position he initially hesitated to accept. Over nearly three decades, Bob has not only helped the Comedy Store out of financial turmoil but has also achieved personal growth and fulfillment by blending his expertise with his passion for comedy.
Shannon and Bob’s conversation highlighted a key takeaway for business owners: the importance of having fun. “If I'm not laughing and having a good time, I need to pivot,” Bob remarked, underscoring a philosophy that could transform the often-daunting world of business. Bob’s commitment to fun isn’t just about light-heartedness; it has tangible benefits. By cultivating a joyful environment, Bob builds stronger client relationships, fosters a collaborative atmosphere, and makes financial discussions approachable. His ability to use humor as a teaching tool allows him to illustrate complex financial concepts in a disarming way, encouraging clients to be more open and engaged.
The conversation also delved into a critical concept that plagues many entrepreneurs: sunk cost bias. This psychological barrier often makes people stick with projects or decisions longer than they should simply because they’ve already invested time and resources. Bob's advice is simple but profound. “Trust yourself,” he said, emphasizing the importance of self-reflection and the willingness to pivot. For business owners, this might mean abandoning a strategy that isn’t working or letting go of a client that isn’t a good fit—decisions that can ultimately lead to greater success and satisfaction.
For those looking to infuse their businesses with more heart and humor, Bob offered actionable advice. First, he emphasized the importance of knowing your mission. “What do I want to accomplish? How do I want to serve people?” These questions, according to Bob, are crucial in setting a meaningful direction for your business. He also encouraged business owners to create spaces where everything is welcome—mistakes, missteps, and moments of levity. This approach not only fosters a more positive work environment but also builds trust with clients and employees alike.
Authenticity and vulnerability emerged as recurring themes in Shannon and Bob's conversation. Bob pointed out that being able to take feedback and pivot is vital. Successful entrepreneurs, he noted, are those who are open to changing course based on new information. This willingness to be vulnerable, to acknowledge mistakes, and to adapt is what differentiates thriving businesses from stagnant ones.
Shannon and Bob’s conversation on the “Keep What You Earn” podcast serves as a reminder that business doesn’t have to be all seriousness and stress. By integrating humor and embracing vulnerability, entrepreneurs can create more fulfilling and resilient enterprises. Bob Wheeler’s journey from CPA to CFO of the Comedy Store exemplifies how merging one's passions with their profession can lead to extraordinary outcomes—both financially and personally.
As Shannon wisely noted, “We take ourselves way too seriously.” The next time you’re grappling with a tough business decision or feeling overwhelmed by the numbers, remember Bob's mantra: have fun, laugh a little, and don’t be afraid to pivot. After all, the most successful businesses are those that know how to keep things light while staying focused on their goals.
Whether you’re a finance aficionado or a comedy enthusiast, take a page out of Bob Wheeler’s book and make room for humor in your professional journey. Because at the end of the day, making money is important, but enjoying the process is invaluable.
CPA Bob Wheeler brings a unique blend of humor, emotional intelligence, and financial expertise to the world of personal finance. Author of "The Money Nerve" and host of the "Money You Should Ask" podcast, Bob explores the emotions behind money decisions, offering fresh perspectives on achieving financial freedom. As a certified 'CORE Energetics' and Radical Aliveness Practitioner, he conducts seminars worldwide, integrating holistic personal growth with practical financial advice. When not serving as CFO of The World Famous Comedy Store or scaling mountains like Kilimanjaro, Bob uses his 25 years of accounting experience and standup comedy background to deliver financial wisdom with warmth, wit, and inspiration, helping people understand and improve their relationship with money.
Website: https://themoneynerve.com
Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/moneyyoushouldask/
YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/c/moneyyoushouldask
For a thorough review of Bob’s core topics around money, visit https://themoneynerve.com/speaking/hire-bob-wheeler-to-speak/
What you'll hear in this episode:
04:33 Early interest in law, turned to accounting.
06:26 Accountant found passion in Zumba, fitness instruction.
11:54 Humor helps navigate business challenges and expectations.
12:46 Using vulnerability and feedback for business success.
If you like this episode, check out:
Silence These Voices In Order to Succeed
How Can You Shake Off Business Boredom and Thrive?
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The information contained in this podcast is intended for educational purposes only and is not individual tax advice. Please consult a qualified professional before implementing anything you learn.
