Mike Manalac shares his journey from Big Four audit to Fortune 5 companies like Walmart and Google, revealing how he built an authentic personal brand through hand-drawn accounting cartoons and thoughtful LinkedIn content. He argues that as AI commoditizes technical accounting knowledge, professionals must develop human skills like creativity, leadership, and authentic communication to future-proof their careers. The conversation explores why accountants can't afford to stay invisible in an increasingly competitive landscape where soft skills will separate the real deal from the "phonies."

• (00:00 ) - Welcome to AI Accounting Intelligence
  


• (01:57 ) - Mike's Journey: From East Coast to West Coast
  


• (04:12 ) - Working at Walmart: E-commerce and Innovations
  


• (13:53 ) - Transition to Google: Ads and Automation
  


• (18:15 ) - Mike from Accounting: Personal Brand and Projects
  


• (20:57 ) - Encouraging Accountants to Share Their Voice
  


• (26:57 ) - The Importance of Standing Out in Your Career
  


• (28:15 ) - Dealing with Self-Promotion and Social Media
  


• (29:12 ) - Authenticity in the Age of Influencers
  


• (31:34 ) - The Role of Humor and Creativity in Accounting
  


• (40:30 ) - The Future of Accounting: AI and Skills Evolution
  


• (50:15 ) - Final Thoughts and Advice for Accountants

Connect with Isaac Heller
https://www.linkedin.com/in/isaacheller

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