Don’t Chase Everything: Lavelle Bridges’ Guide to Entrepreneurial Focus
Lavelle E. Bridges, CEO at London Bridge Group (Arizona)
In this episode of the Break Free Podcast, host David Mansilla speaks with seasoned entrepreneur Lavelle E. Bridges, Founder and CEO of London Bridge Group, a Phoenix-based accounting firm. With over 50 years of experience in taxation and financial consulting, Lavelle shares powerful lessons on sustaining excellence, adapting to economic changes, and mentoring the next generation. His journey from public accounting to building his own firm is a blueprint for leaders looking to build not just a business — but a lasting impact.
A Foundation Built on Excellence and Persistence
Lavelle Bridges began his professional journey in the 1970s, during a time when representation in public accounting was limited. He was one of only two African Americans working in a major Phoenix firm. Rather than being discouraged, Lavelle saw this as a challenge to overcome — and a call to elevate the standard of service in the industry.
His mantra was clear: deliver better service and be more knowledgeable than anyone else. That focus on quality and professionalism not only earned him credibility — it laid the foundation for a firm that would grow to serve hundreds of clients across multiple states.
“I wanted to be so good, they couldn’t ignore me.”
Building a Business Through Resilience and Vision
After gaining experience in both public accounting and banking, Lavelle launched London Bridge Group in 1987. With a single client and a desire to serve small businesses, he worked tirelessly to build relationships and trust.
Over time, the firm expanded into a multifaceted financial consulting business, handling tax strategy, compliance, and business advisory services. Lavelle emphasized consistency, communication, and clarity — three traits that allowed him to thrive even through industry changes and economic downturns.
His leadership lesson is simple but powerful: keep showing up, and keep improving.
Surviving the Mortgage Crisis and Reinventing with Purpose
The 2008 mortgage crash was a pivotal moment in Lavelle’s career. At the time, his business had grown to over 900 tax clients and a thriving mortgage arm — but when the economy collapsed, it all came crashing down.
Instead of giving up, Lavelle rebuilt. He used that season to reflect, restructure, and refocus. One of his key decisions was to limit his tax client load to 150 select businesses and individuals, allowing for deeper advisory work and better outcomes.
It was a hard reset — but one that refined his mission and allowed him to evolve from a volume-based business to a value-driven advisory firm.
Mentorship, Education, and Giving Back
Today, Lavelle is not only leading London Bridge Group — he’s mentoring emerging professionals and business owners. He teaches, speaks, and shares his decades of experience to help others avoid costly mistakes and build healthy, sustainable businesses.
He encourages leaders to be intentional, keep learning, and focus on long-term value, not short-term wins. His passion for teaching has become a central part of his legacy.
“I want people to be financially strong — not just for today, but for the future.”
The Power of Focus, Discipline, and Doing What You Love
Lavelle’s story is a masterclass in longevity. What’s his secret? Focus. Discipline. And doing the work that energizes you.
He advises entrepreneurs to find their lane, master it, and stay committed. Too many people, he says, chase everything — and end up exhausted with little to show for it.
At over 50 years into his career, Lavelle continues to operate with clarity and purpose. He’s still advising clients, mentoring young professionals, and growing his firm — not because he has to, but because he loves what he does.
Written by Jovilyn Dela Cruz
“I want people to be financially strong — not just for today, but for the future.
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