The Last Word is our regular feature that asks searching questions of senior leaders across the Praxity Alliance. We go behind the desk with industry luminaries to find out just what makes them tick, finding out a little of what they enjoy outside of work.
In this edition, we put Montserrat Colin, Tax Partner at JA Del Río, Mexico and Justin Stenberg, Partner at FORVIS and Chair of the Praxity North America Tax Working Group, in the interview chair, to explore what they enjoy doing after all the work is finished.
Montserrat Colin
JA Del Río, Mexico
What was the last book you read?
“Diseñadores del Futuro” “Designers of the Future” by Julieta Manzano, as I am researching changes in motivation and inspiration in post-pandemic work.
What was the last item you added to your wardrobe?
I bought white sneakers that I could wear with business casual clothes or suits, ideal for my Fridays.
What was the last restaurant you went to?
“Asia”, a restaurant in Mexico City that serves Asian food and has a very relaxed atmosphere.
What was the last holiday you went on?
I was on an Atlantic cruise visiting amazing places. My favorite was Stockholm, and the most amazing thing I ate were the stuffed potatoes in Helsinki - the food is my favorite thing in the world.
What was the last great piece of advice you were given?
Two weeks ago, during my meditation, I was told to be grateful for all the incredible things I have and have obtained and not to pay too much attention to what is not in my life, and to thank myself for having brought me to this day.
What was the last piece of advice you gave?
Focus on your strengths, because what you have that you do well at, you could do amazing at and be the best. Whatever you don't have, surround yourself with very bright people who complement you. When you allow someone else to shine, you shine too.
What was the last sport you played?
I regularly exercise, I do functional exercise, spinning and yoga among others. In fitness, I practiced aerial dance until before the pandemic, I love the personal challenge it brings me.
What was the last gift you gave someone?
I treated myself to an afternoon of facial massages and a delicious meal. I treat myself from time to time!
What was the last thing you watched on TV?
“And Just Like That” by Amazon Prime - I can laugh and laugh.
When was the last time you hugged someone?
This morning, I hugged my boyfriend and Pipo my dog, who are simply huggable.
Justin Stenberg,
FORVIS, USA
What was the last song you listened to?
“Pas De Deux”, from “Swan Lake”, by Tchaikovsky – right now!
What was the last book you read?
“Powers Reserved for the People and the States: A History of the Ninth and Tenth Amendments” by Thomas McAfee, Jay Bybee and A. Bryant, about the US Constitution.
When did you last workout?
I workout my mind every day.
What was the last app you downloaded?
LawnLove so I can keep my lawn looking great!
What was the last holiday you went on?
Cancun, Mexico—me gusta Mexico!
What was the last great piece of advice you were given?
My MP Jim Regnier - "all anger and disappointment comes from an expectation being missed".
What is the last thing people would guess about you?
I go to the dentist four times a year and love having my teeth cleaned!
What was the last piece of advice you gave?
Reminding a colleague to always try and remember to extend others a little extra grace during challenging times.
What was the last sport you played?
In the last decade...?
What was the last gift you gave someone?
I sent my mom a big vase of flowers for Mother’s Day.
