Strategy Backed by Data. Results Built by Purpose.

Since its founding, Guide CFO has delivered expert-driven financial leadership, bridging the gap between day-to-day bookkeeping and high-level strategic decision making.

Our History

Founded to provide growing businesses with executive-level financial guidance without the cost of a full-time CFO, Guide CFO is dedicated to delivering proactive, data-backed strategies that help owners simplify the complex, protect their future, and unlock their potential. Over time, Guide CFO has evolved into a trusted partner for small to medium sized businesses nationwide. We emphasize financial clarity, measurable results, and decision-making rooted in confidence. Under the leadership of Samantha LaCounte, with over 20 years of experience in accounting, finance, and operations, Guide CFO is committed to Educating Owners, Empowering Leadership Teams, and Elevating every business we serve.

Our philosophy: create forward-looking financial roadmaps — not just fix past mistakes — so leaders can scale with purpose, profitability, and peace of mind.

Meet the Team

  • Samantha LaCounte

    FOUNDER & FRACTIONAL CFO

    Hobbies: Gardening, Art, Excel Nerd, Baking, History, Travel and Meeting Amazing People.

    With over 20 years in accounting, finance, and operations, Samantha has partnered with businesses across construction, manufacturing, restaurants, media, and healthcare. She specializes in helping owners simplify financial complexity, unlock trapped cash, and build roadmaps for sustainable growth. Her leadership is rooted in the belief that clarity creates confidence — and confidence drives better decisions.

  • Richard LaCounte

    FRACTIONAL EXECUTIVE CHEF

    Hobbies: Traveling, Rebuilding Trucks, Cooking, Off Roading, Outdoor Activities, and Family Gatherings

    A Culinary Institute of America graduate with 28 years of experience, Exec Chef Richard (Richie) has led kitchens from boutique restaurants to high-volume dining groups to casinos and catering. He blends classic technique with modern strategy, helping restaurants refine operations, reduce waste, and elevate guest experiences. His passion lies in turning kitchen chaos into consistency — where quality, efficiency, and profitability thrive together.

  • Peter

    FRACTIONAL EXECUTIVE CHEF

    Hobbies: Cooking, Traveling, Family, Going to concerts, and running in marathons.

    With 28 years of culinary leadership and a degree from the Culinary Institute of America, Exec Chef Peter brings a wealth of expertise to restaurant teams. He has developed menus, trained staff, and scaled operations for restaurants ranging from fine dining to multi-location brands. Driven by a love for hospitality, He focuses on helping owners build kitchens that deliver exceptional food, reliable systems, and stronger margins.

  • Brooke Wilson

    BOOKKEEPER

    Hobbies: Hiking, Family, Cooking, Fur-babies, Painting, and avid Stone Collector.

    With a decade of experience, Brooke is driven by a passion for helping people through clarity and organization. She believes accurate books are more than numbers — they’re a tool to reduce stress and unlock opportunity. Known for her approachable style and steady support, Brooke builds lasting trust with every client. At home, she finds joy in family life and is dedicated to raising her child to become a kind and capable person.

  • Jack Cholin

    RESTAURANT & BAR CONSULTANT

    Hobbies: Cooking, Cocktails, Reading, Art, Multilinguistic, Avid Vinyl Collector and History buff.

    With two decades of experience managing restaurants and bars, Jack combines operational expertise with a deep passion for craft cocktails. A graduate of the University of Nevada, Reno in Chinese History and Mandarin, he brings a global perspective and disciplined approach to hospitality leadership. Known for elevating front-of-house standards, training teams, and fostering community through service, Jack leads with energy, precision, and a commitment to excellence.

Join our Team