Beyond the Numbers: AI, Leadership, and Giving Back with Michael DeLuca

In this episode, Rob sits down with Michael DeLuca, a CPA and Market Leader at HBK, for a wide-ranging conversation that blends professional wisdom with a deep-rooted passion for community and connection. Michael shares his journey from a "math nerd" and Division I baseball player in Kentucky to becoming a national leader at one of the country's top accounting firms. They delve into the evolving world of business, discussing how AI is transforming industry while emphasizing why the "human touch" and emotional intelligence remain irreplaceable.

Michael opens up about his personal life in Naples, from his collaborative marriage with his wife, Edie, to their shared love for Bordeaux wines and their daily technology-free "wine walks". The discussion also highlights Michael’s commitment to philanthropy, particularly his work with Better Together, an organization dedicated to keeping families out of the foster care system by providing community-driven support and job opportunities. From leadership lessons found in Jocko Willink’s Extreme Ownership to nostalgic stories of Italian family traditions and Sunday dinners, this episode is a testament to the power of character, hustle, and leading a life centered on service.

Timestamps:

07:30 – AI and the Future: Why EQ and the "human touch" are more important than ever.

15:45 – Professional Chops: Lessons from working at global firms like Ernst & Young and Deloitte.

23:16 – Healthcare Hurdles: The unique business challenges facing private doctors today.

42:33 – The American Dream: Reflecting on family heritage and the beauty of hard work.

01:21:06 – Character Over GPA: Why Michael recruits for hustle and heart over test scores.

01:34:18 – "Extreme Ownership": How Jocko Willink’s leadership principles apply to business.

01:51:00 – Better Together: A deep dive into the mission of keeping families united in SWFL.

https://hbkcpa.com/

#naplesfl #sogp #ropsalons #michaeldeluca #hbkcpas #bettertogether #leadership #community #extremownership #naplesbusiness #familytraditions

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