• Like many of you, I’ve faced challenges and moments of heartbreak along the way.
   

• I was fortunate to have the courage and determination to step into consulting, achieving significant successes.
   

• Above all, I’ve always valued the foresight and humility to adapt when needed, ensuring the best outcome for everyone involved.

Back in 1985, when a 20-ounce soda was only 50 cents, I decided to quit my job. After graduating from UT in 1975 with a BBA in accounting, I spent 10 years working as an auditor for the Comptroller’s Department. But by 1985, my personal life, especially helping my mom care for my sick father, made it tough to keep up with work. My boss was also a close friend, and I didn’t want to put him in a tough spot by asking for special treatment, so I made the decision to resign.

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At that time, consulting wasn't as common as it is today, but I decided to become a tax consultant. I had built a strong network during my time with the Comptroller and felt confident I could make a living. After a short gig with Taco Bell Corporate, I started reaching out to my contacts—CPAs, CFOs, and business owners—to offer my tax expertise before, during, and after audits. I even got a mention from John Kelso in the Austin-American Statesman, which helped spread the word. But most people said the same thing: “If we’re ever audited, we’ll give you a call.” I quickly realized I needed to offer something more immediate to get them to act.

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That’s when I came up with the idea to help clients get refunds on state taxes. I dove into the Comptroller’s literature and discovered that companies could reclaim overpaid taxes. My breakthrough came when I helped Stripling Blake, a leading building supply company from the 70’s to today, and Bill Milburn Homes recover $87,000 in overpaid M.T.A. tax on materials for homes built in Anderson Mill West. That first big commission was a game-changer.

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Despite my early success, by 1989, with four kids and bills piling up, I needed steady health insurance. I accepted a full-time auditing job with the Texas Department of Commerce but continued my consulting work on the side. I eventually retired from state service in 2006 after 32 years, and since then, I’ve been running my tax consulting business full-time from my home in Anderson Mill West. Last week, I celebrated 49 years of offering tax consulting services to Texas businesses.