Trust is an integral part of any relationship – especially one that involves financial matters. We understand relationships develop over time and we take a deep dive into learning about your individual situation so we can provide the best outcome for your financial picture.
THROUGH OUR PROCESS, WE FOCUS THROUGH THE FIRM LENS OF THE FOLLOWING THREE PRINCIPLES.
INTEGRITY
Unwavering Pursuit of Integrity.
SERVICE
Proactive Pursuit of Service.
EXCELLENCE
Relentless Pursuit of Excellence.
Mike Carter, CPA
Michael is a Veteran of the United States Air Force. Upon completion of his enlistment, he moved his family back to Murfreesboro to attend Middle Tennessee State University. Michael completed his undergraduate in two and a half years. Upon graduation, Michael went to work for a large firm in Nashville to further define what it was he wanted to do in the field. This is where he developed an interest in taxation and business advisory.
Michael moved from the Nashville job market to a local firm to help develop his interaction with clients and to learn what it takes to offer more specialized services to small and medium business owners.
Michael first had the idea of Lionstone CPA after researching the current state of the profession and developing a feel for where it would be headed. He began creating the idea behind the firm in early 2016, based on interactions with clients and upon completion of several special projects. He began to merge skills he gained from both the military and the firms he worked in over time. In early 2019 he made the switch to full-time firm management.
Michael and his family reside in Murfreesboro, TN. They attend River Oaks Church where they serve in several capacities.
Helen Miller, Client Success Coordinator
Helen joined the firm in 2022, to fill the Client Success Coordinator role.
She relocated to Murfreesboro after living in West TN for more than 30 years.
Helen served in the administrative field during her time in the United States National Guard and the United States Army Reserves, at Tennessee Technology Center, and spent time as secretary and treasurer at First Christian Church in Adamsville, TN. Additionally, Helen spent 8 years as an Architectural Drafter in West Tennessee and 11 years in the clothing industry prior to switching roles in the administrative field.
Helen enjoys crafting and craft fairs, outdoor activities and camping, and spending time with family. She is a mother of three sons and a grandmother of 5. She enjoys exploring her surroundings and meeting new people along the way.
Earl Carter, Tax Associate
Earl graduated from Middle Tennessee State University in 2013 with his B.S. in Finance. He is an 8yr Army veteran serving as a Military Police Officer. Before becoming a Tax Preparer with the firm, he worked for the Department of Veterans Affairs as a medical biller, and Veteran Service Representative. He is working towards earning his Enrolled Agent designation and hopes to accomplish that in 2024. Earl enjoys outdoor activities such as kayaking and visiting state parks to hike with his wife and 2 children.
Kevin Combs, Tax Associate
Kevin graduated from the Herff College of Engineering at the University of Memphis with a focus In “Product Realization” and “Operations Strategy & Lean Principles.” During this time Kevin began learning tax preparation in 2012 to help out his mother whom was an accountant at AutoZone for 18 years but decided to start her own practice. Over the course of 10 tax seasons Kevin decided to shift his focus into Tax Preparation as a full-time career. He used his knowledge of Lean Principles and skills with technology to implement major changes that greatly enhanced client volume capabilities and reduce overhead costs.
At the end of the 2022 tax season (in 2023) he decided to acquire his Enrolled Agent certification and work at a new firm under a CPA in order to receive greater exposure to different clientele and increase his overall knowledge in regards to tax preparation & tax planning strategies.