What if culture isn’t soft at all, but one of the most powerful drivers of performance? In this episode of Future-Proof, we sit down with Don Rheem, founder of CultureID, to explore how neuroscience is reshaping the way leaders understand engagement, behavior, and results.

Don explains how the way employees feel at work directly drives how they perform, and why factors like psychological safety, trust, and recognition are not just nice-to-haves, but measurable business drivers. From the impact of managers on engagement to the hidden costs of disengagement, this conversation challenges leaders to rethink culture as a system that can be measured, managed, and improved.

This episode offers a practical, science-backed look at how organizations can create environments where people thrive and performance follows.

Resources:

1. Don Rheem LinkedIn profile
2. CultureID, tools and insights for measuring and improving workplace culture
3. Thrive by Design, by Don Rheem, book on the neuroscience behind high-performance cultures
4. MACPA Converge 2026, where Don Rheem will deliver a keynote on culture and performance

How is the future of the CPA profession being shaped at the regulatory level? In this episode of Future-Proof, we sit down with Jeff Wilson, the newly appointed chair of the Maryland State Board of Public Accountancy, to discuss the role regulators play in guiding the profession forward.

Jeff shares his perspective on addressing the CPA talent shortage, expanding pathways to licensure, and how state boards are thinking about emerging technologies like AI and automation.

This conversation offers insight into how regulators, practitioners, and professional organizations can work together to protect the public while helping the profession evolve and thrive.

Resources:

1. Jeff Wilson LinkedIn Profile
2. Maryland Board of Public Accountancy
3. Jeff Wilson and The W2 Group LLC

What does cybersecurity really mean for today’s CPA firms? In this episode, we sit down with Luke Kiely, Chief Information Security Officer at SmartVault and Chief Security Officer at ComplyWise, to explore why cybersecurity is no longer just an IT issue, but a firm-wide responsibility.

Luke breaks down how most breaches still begin with a simple email and a distracted click, why busy season increases vulnerability, and the practical safeguards firms can put in place without a massive IT budget.

This episode offers clear, actionable insight into protecting client data and securing the future of your firm.

Resources:

1. Luke Kiely LinkedIn Profile
2. SmartVault
3. ComplyWise
4. FTC Safeguards Rule Overview
5. IRS Publication 4557 – Safeguarding Taxpayer Data