Sharing My Story – From the Back Office to the Front Row
- Brainz Magazine
- Jul 15
- 4 min read
Manuel Aragon is an entrepreneur out of Colorado with a deep background in business, Tax Prep, advisory, and planning. Has served as a CFO, Operations Manager, Finance Director, and Consultant.
I’ll be honest: I never pictured myself growing into a “public figure.” When I founded Aragon Tax Return Services, my dream day was helping families with taxes, crunching numbers, solving financial puzzles, and making sure every detail was just right. The idea of putting myself out there, especially in a big, public way, wasn’t just uncomfortable, it was almost unimaginable. My comfort zone? Firmly behind the desk, not in front of a crowd. But here’s the reality check: If I want my firm to grow and reach the people who truly need the services I offer, I can no longer stay in the shadows.
The hard truth: Visibility = Viability
For a long time, I hoped word-of-mouth would be enough. And to be fair, my clients are loyal, supportive, and their referrals have kept me going, and I’m super thankful to every one of them. But the growth I want: building a real team, serving more clients, making a bigger impact, means I need to be seen and heard beyond Denver, Colorado. For years, I have watched competitors who were louder (not always better) win clients that I knew I could help, maybe a bit better, and it hit me: My reluctance to step into the spotlight was holding my business back.
This isn’t about becoming an influencer or a “celebrity accountant.” It’s about building trust, showing the real person behind the numbers, speaking up, and letting people know why I’m the right choice for their financial needs. That requires me to step up, even when it feels awkward.
Sharing my story, even the uncomfortable parts
Here’s where it gets real. People see the awards, the books, the business accolades, but not the backstory. The truth is, I didn’t take the traditional path. My education was very unconventional, and my career started with more obstacles than most. For years, I kept that part of my story quiet, afraid it might make people doubt my credibility.
But as I grow, I realize my story isn’t about seeking validation, it’s about showing what’s possible. It’s about purpose, accountability, and proving that your past doesn’t define your future. I’m not motivated by recognition or even by making money. It’s a necessity because it costs money to live and costs money to grow into new areas. My drive comes from impact, helping clients build better financial futures and setting an example for my son.
Why I’m learning to share my story
Building authentic connections: People connect with honesty and vulnerability. Sharing my journey shows I’m not just an accountant; I’m someone who’s faced real adversity and came out stronger.
Inspiring trust: If I can overcome my history and build something meaningful, it shows my resilience and commitment, qualities you want in someone managing your finances, and may influence others to do the same.
Purpose over profit: My work isn’t just about numbers. It’s about helping others achieve stability and growth, just as I’ve done for myself and my family. Money is a tool, and when you learn to treat it that way, I think you have begun to manage it differently.
My approach: Visibility on my terms
I’m not trying to become an extrovert overnight. Instead, I aim to focus on what I do best—explaining complex topics in simple terms and writing concisely and clearly. Writing lets me share my expertise and story without the anxiety that comes with public speaking.
The biggest mindset shift? It’s not about self-promotion; it’s about sharing value. When I focus on helping others, whether it’s explaining tax changes or sharing financial tips, the attention feels less intimidating. It becomes about service, not about sales.
The ongoing purpose, growth, and leadership
There are still days I want to hide behind spreadsheets. But then I remember the difference I can make for a client, or the example I’m setting for my son. Every time I step into the spotlight, I’m investing in my business, my family, my purpose, and my future.
I’m not trying to be someone I’m not. I’m just using visibility and these public platforms as a tool to achieve my goals, serve my clients better, and build a future I’m proud of, one step at a time.
If you’re on a similar path, here’s what’s worked for me:
Lean into your strengths, delegate the rest.
Focus on value, not self-promotion.
Embrace your story, even the tough, ugly parts.
Remember your “why”, the impact you want to make.
I hope my journey inspires you to step out of your comfort zone, too. If I can do it, you can too!
Read more from Manuel Aragon
Manuel Aragon, Tax Consultant & Advisory Planner
Manuel Aragon has elite expertise in tax preparation, accounting, finance, cash planning, and tax strategy. Manuel has delivered modern, innovative financial solutions, driving growth and efficiency to multiple companies in Colorado. His leadership and approach have solidified a reputation for excellence, onboarding, and overall client satisfaction. Continues to serve in multiple roles across the front range as a Tax Preparer, CFO, Operations Manager, Finance Director, and Consultant.
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