How a Forward-Thinking CPA Discovered the Ideal Bottom Line is a Triple Bottom Line

Heather Zeitzwolfe, founder of Zeitzwolfe Accounting and creator of the “Get the Balance Right” podcast, believes in and practices the Triple Bottom Line of People, Planet and Profit. The certification says so.

You can’t ignore the obvious about a high-energy CPA like Heather Zeitzwolfe. She really does know her numbers. Which brought her to believing that a triple bottom line of People, Planet and Profit is a lot better for her business and her world.

As a certified Benefit Corporation for Good, Heather and her company Zeitwolfe Accounting are committed to doing good for her community and her planet. In fact, as creator and host of the popular podcast  “Get the Balance Right,” Heather’s mission is to inspire entrepreneurs to become purpose-driven leaders with a focus on their triple bottom line.   

We recently interviewed Heather Zeitzwolfe about becoming a certified Oregon Benefit Company. Here’s what she had to say about it, her motivation for doing it and why it’s helping Zeitwolfe Accounting grow in a very sustainable manner.

1. What motivated you to become an Oregon Benefit Company?

As a business student in the 90’s, I was taught that the only reason businesses existed was to earn a profit. This definition seemed rather limiting to me, as I knew companies had the potential to make both a positive and negative impact. Based on their size, that impact could be global.

I studied business ethics and was horrified by some of the actions of mega corporations such as Dow Chemical and Monsanto. It only seemed logical to me that if a company had the potential to cause massive harm, why couldn’t other companies stand for something positive.

Over the years times have changed. Now we have companies that make it their mission to make the world a better place, while they still make a profit. When I went back to business school in 2010, I discovered the concept of triple bottom line. I found it very exciting, but at the time it wasn’t being taught in any of my classes. Therefore, I had to research it on my own. Since then, the rise of the B-Corp has really accelerated.

When I started my businesses a couple years ago, I knew I wanted to incorporate those mission-based values. Living in Oregon, when you register as an LLC, you have the option to be a benefit company. I wasn’t sure what that would entail, but since it was an option, I jumped at the opportunity. 

2.  Was it difficult getting internal support for moving toward this model?

When my business was in its infancy, I researched the various third-party standards the State of Oregon would accept for its benefit companies. I was instantly drawn to Benefit Corporations for Good, but assumed I’d have to wait a while until I was eligible to apply. It wasn’t until I had Tom Hering and Mary Anne Harmer on my podcast (Get the Balance Right) that I learned I was ready right then and there.

3. How long did it take you to officially become a Benefit Company?

After I realized I was eligible, I applied right away. I answered BCFG’s self-evaluated questionnaire and turned it in within a week. Tom and Mary Anne reviewed my application and within a few weeks we had a conference call via Zoom to discuss my score, where I was strong and where I could improve.

4. Have you seen any change in culture since you became a Benefit Company?

I’m primarily a culture of one, but I do have contractors. I’ve made it a point to hire contractors based on a criterion that fits with the values of my company. I’ve also made a conscious decision in regards to clients and guests on my podcast to make sure they align with my values and how I want to impact the world through my business.

5. Have you experienced any positive outcomes since becoming a Benefit Company?

Yes, I have worked directly with several others who are certified. I’ve also participated in networking and support other members whenever I can, such as through referrals. It can also seem like a badge of honor; we’re in the cool club of those who care about society and the planet.

6. Would you recommend this business model to others? Why or why not?

Yes. You can use the certification as a way to market yourself. But more importantly, being a certified business allows you to get feedback on ways you can make a better, bigger impact in areas you may not have considered. It gives you a framework to consider when making choices in your business. You’re also held accountable, which many may find motivating.

7. What is the most important trait to have as a conscientious leader of a Benefit Company?

Compassion. To me it all starts with compassion, because you need to have empathy, understanding and a warm heart.

8. What lessons have you learned in the process?

I was born in the late 60’s. Language has changed a lot since then. I discovered through my application process that some of my phrases could be viewed differently from my intention. My heart was in the right place, but I just needed to get my phraseology and communication up with the times.

9. Is being a Benefit Company part of your current brand message?

When I first was certified it was. I was proud of it and I wanted people to know and identify me as a benefit company. As time went on, it was more about me internally and less about my outward image. In the end, I’m doing it to make a difference, not a marketing tool.

10. What is the single best reason you'd give for another company or peer to become a Benefit Company?

The community. I’ve met amazing, like-minded values-driven people through this community.

You can learn more about Zeitzwolfe Accounting here.

If you want to know more about why your business should become a benefit corporation, watch this.

Learn more about the 6 simple steps to becoming a benefit company or benefit corporation here.

~benefitcorporationsforgood.com~