Accounting for Change: The Evolution of Renee Fulton’s Leadership Journey

In this episode of Renegade Ventures, co-hosts Ellie Puckett and Maggie Harlow welcome business leader and recruiter Renee Fulton, founder of Talis Group. What begins as a conversation between longtime colleagues unfolds into a thoughtful exploration of career pivots, values-based leadership, and the courage it takes to follow your own path.

Renee shares her early passion for accounting, nurtured by working alongside her father in his bookkeeping practice. She reflects on how this formative experience shaped her career ambitions and instilled a deep appreciation for the structure and problem-solving inherent in accounting—a skill set that would later become essential in her entrepreneurial journey.

The conversation moves into Renee’s experience in public accounting, where the demands of the profession and a challenging work environment led her to reassess her goals. Renee opens up about her decision to leave that world behind and step into entrepreneurship, a transition encouraged by her husband and fueled by a desire to create something more aligned with her values. The discussion explores themes of leadership, mindset, mental health, and managing the complexities of running a business with a spouse. A key influence in this stage of her journey: Loving What Is by Byron Katie, which offered clarity and perspective during moments of self-doubt.

Today, Renee leads Talis Group, a recruiting firm known for its personalized approach and exceptional client service. She reflects on what it means to grow a company with integrity, mentor a high-performing team, and define success beyond industry benchmarks. Renee’s story is a powerful reminder that entrepreneurship is not about chasing someone else’s version of success—it’s about building a business that reflects your values, solves meaningful problems, and supports the people around you.

Key Takeaways:

• The book Maggie mentions -  "Loving What Is" by Byron Katie
• How foundational skills can shape lifelong professional growth
• The importance of recognizing when it’s time to pivot
• Strategies for balancing business, family, and personal well-being
• How mindset influences leadership and performance
• Why defining success on your own terms leads to more sustainab