Built to Work | Episode 9 | Kenny Burkhead | Intellicents

Built to Work | Built to Work Transcription

On this episode of Built to Work, Colin sits down with Kenny Burkhead, Personal CFO at Intellicents. They discuss the many benefits of outsourcing back office tasks including: scalability for growth, access to a wider network of knowledge, and the ability for business owners to focus more on the parts of running a business that they love. Produced by Recycled Media.

Transcription

### Built to Work Podcast

Welcome to “Built to Work,” the podcast that dives into the grit and uncovers the heart of what makes the blue-collar world tick. I’m Colin, your host, and I sit down with the people who keep our world running—from those tackling the tough jobs no one else dares to do, to the HR professionals working overtime to find the labor force we need. Whether you’re in the trenches or behind the scenes, this podcast is for anyone who values hard work, determination, and stories that build the backbone of our workforce. So, grab your gloves, your coffee, or your clipboard—it’s time to get to work.

#### Meeting Kenny Burkehead

Today, I am here with my good friend, business associate, and partner, Kenny Burkehead. Kenny and I have known each other for about five or six years now. We’ve been in business together and owned a business together. We are also looking to own another business together. We’ve done a lot in the business community.

#### Introduction to IntelliSense

Kenny is a personal CFO at IntelliSense. For those who are not familiar, IntelliSense started back in 1974 by Kenny’s dad and then was taken over by Brad and Grant. They were pioneers of the 401k space, launching some of the first 401k plans in a few northern states in the 1970s. Initially focused on 401ks, the company expanded in the 2010s to include a personal wealth management division, now managing assets worth $2 billion.

The services they offer focus on providing financial planning and management for 401k participants. Many participants later ask for management of personal accounts and retirement planning, as they transition from having a salary to planning for the next 30 years or leaving money to their kids.

#### Business Strategy and Growth

In parallel, I started True Wealth and Company with Brian Sarf, focusing on small business owners. Our concept was reinforced during the 2020s when business owners focused on surviving rather than individual finances. This highlighted the need for fractional work to support business owners effectively.

True Wealth and IntelliSense saw synergies in providing integrated services to business owners and high-net-worth clients—focusing on letting them concentrate on what they do best by outsourcing other operational facets.

In 2024, IntelliSense approached us with a strong focus on small business owners and third-party management—leveraging the mastery of tasks that clients might not be experienced in, leading to improved business outcomes.

#### Key Takeaways

Kenny shared that the success of a business often correlates with focusing on core competencies and outsourcing other roles. This approach allows drawing from a broad knowledge base and adapting successful strategies learned from multiple businesses.

Additionally, building trust and providing a depth of services helps clients feel secure, knowing they have expert guidance to fall back on whenever challenges arise. This helps streamline operations and ensure readiness for future opportunities.

#### Conclusion

I appreciate Kenny sharing his insights and experiences. Outsourcing has played a significant role in his clients’ financial and operational success, proving invaluable amidst business challenges. Whether it’s financial management, tax optimization, or business expansion, having experts handle specific business areas provides security and focus for growth.

The views expressed in this podcast do not necessarily reflect those of IntelliSense or its affiliates. This content is for informational purposes only.