Inspiring Conversations with Jheesue Yang of Main Stage Financial

Today we’d like to introduce you to Jheesue Yang.

Alright, so thank you so much for sharing your story and insight with our readers. To kick things off, can you tell us a bit about how you got started?
My name is Jheesue Yang, and I’m the CEO, CPA, and CFP behind Main Stage Financial. I’d love to share the journey of how—and why—I got here.
I’m originally from South Korea, but my path has been anything but linear. After graduating from the University of Amsterdam with a degree in Finance and Economics, I moved to the U.S. in the summer of 2017. Earlier this year, I proudly became a U.S. citizen.
For as long as I can remember, I’ve been a dreamer. Growing up surrounded by K-pop, I developed a passion for the entertainment industry. Like many Korean kids, I once dreamed of becoming an idol, but the pressure of academics led me down a different path—I decided to study hard, pursue business, and find my way into the entertainment world through another door.
After years of nonstop studying, I graduated high school and, for the first time, went to a club party. That night changed everything. I instantly fell in love with music. Soon after, I started DJing, making music, and throwing myself into that world. Under my artist name Hpnotic, I’ve continued to DJ and produce music to this day.
Music opened doors I never expected. It introduced me to international DJs, producers, and people across the industry, expanding my network beyond Korea. When I was 20, I took my first international trip—it opened my eyes to how differently people live, create, and connect in other parts of the world. That experience sparked a curiosity that ultimately led me to move to the Netherlands in 2014.
Living and studying in the Netherlands while DJing and traveling across Europe was a true turning point in my life. Being so far from home pushed me to grow independent, disciplined, and resourceful. The survival instincts, problem-solving mindset, and decision-making skills I developed during that time now form the foundation of how I run my business today.
Before graduating, I had the chance to do an exchange program at Boston College. During that time, I traveled to Los Angeles for the first time—and fell in love. The energy of the city, its mix of cultures, food, and music, was overwhelming in the best way. I knew I had to come back.
It wasn’t easy, but I eventually secured a visa-sponsored accounting job in LA. I dove into learning everything about American accounting, tax, and financial systems. People often think accounting is boring, but to me, it was fascinating. Through tax returns and financial records, I got a behind-the-scenes look at how people build businesses and wealth.
At the same time, I was lucky enough to continue DJing at local clubs and festivals, building friendships within the LA music community. As an immigrant without family nearby, those friends became my chosen family—I’ll never forget the kindness of people who invited me to their homes for Thanksgiving so I wouldn’t be alone.
In those early years, some of my artist friends began asking me for help with their taxes. Even though my English was still improving and my experience was limited, they trusted me. Many of those same friends are now successful business owners and artists, and I’ll always be grateful to them for giving me that early chance.
From there, my journey grew. While working at CPA firms, I built my own client base, continued DJing and producing, and earned my CPA, CFP, and securities licenses. This year, I finally felt confident enough to launch my own firm, Main Stage Financial, dedicated to creatives and business owners.
The pandemic taught me that filing taxes alone isn’t enough to create long-term impact. What artists and entrepreneurs really need is comprehensive support—business management, financial planning, and tax strategy all working together. My mission is to help creatives and business owners become financially secure, prepared for the unexpected, and free to focus on their craft.
Looking back, I feel incredibly lucky for the community that has supported me, regardless of nationality, race, or gender. My journey hasn’t been easy, but it’s been rich with lessons and connections. With Main Stage Financial, my goal is simple: to solve money problems, empower people, and help them find financial freedom.

We all face challenges, but looking back would you describe it as a relatively smooth road?
Running a business is never a smooth road, but owning my journey and choosing the direction I want to go makes all the pain, struggles, and challenges worth it.
I’m a very emotionally sensitive person, so rejection or sensing when others don’t feel good can affect me deeply. I’ve had to train my mindset constantly, reminding myself that it’s okay to receive answers I didn’t want. Since I meet with so many new people, I often get nervous before calls, not knowing what to expect. But my genuine curiosity to learn about others helps me push through. Whether or not a business relationship develops, I remind myself that every conversation is valuable—I always walk away having learned something.
Another challenge has been self-consciousness. I didn’t grow up in the U.S., so I sometimes miss cultural references or nuances. Instead of letting that discourage me, I try to see those gaps as part of my learning process. Every shortfall is an opportunity to grow into a better, more well-rounded person.
I’m also learning a lot about teamwork. Naturally, I like to have control, but I’ve reached a point where I can’t handle everything on my own. It’s been important to invest in others, delegate, and trust the process of working together. Building leadership skills and learning how to collaborate effectively are challenges I’m still working through, but I know they are essential for the long run.
The 24/7 nature of running a business has also been tough. My mind is always thinking, planning, and responding. At the same time, working with a team has made me more accountable, and I’m grateful to them for always pushing me to be better for Main Stage Financial.
I try to learn from my past experiences with bosses and colleagues, reflecting on what worked and what I can improve. Ultimately, I see every struggle as something that shapes me into who I need to become. Even when I get frustrated, I try to hold onto the belief that challenges are part of the process—and that they’re helping me move forward.

Appreciate you sharing that. What should we know about Main Stage Financial?
Main Stage Financial is a business management and advisory firm built to empower creatives, artists, and small business owners. We go beyond tax filing to deliver integrated services—business management, bookkeeping, tax strategy, and financial planning—so our clients can focus on their craft while building long-term security.
What sets us apart is our focus on the creative community. Many firms treat artists and entertainment professionals as an afterthought, but we understand the unique revenue models, challenges, and opportunities in this space. We provide clear, transparent service tiers, tailored strategies, and an educative approach that helps clients not just comply—but truly grow.
I’m especially proud that Main Stage Financial is becoming known in creative and entertainment circles as a partner that “gets it.” We know what it means to live project to project, to juggle touring schedules, or to face financial uncertainty like we all did during COVID. That empathy and firsthand experience shape the way we serve our clients.
Another thing that sets us apart is how we combine financial expertise with real creative passion. As both a CPA/CFP and a DJ/producer, I’ve lived in both worlds. That dual perspective allows me to bridge the gap between art and finance, giving clients practical strategies that respect their creative vision.
What I’m most proud of is seeing clients who once struggled with money now thrive as sustainable businesses. For us, financial planning isn’t just about numbers—it’s about creating freedom. At Main Stage Financial, our mission is simple: to solve money problems and give creatives the stability they need to keep creating.

Are there any apps, books, podcasts, blogs or other resources you think our readers should check out?
Books
Mastery by Robert Greene
The Obstacle Is the Way. by Ryan Holiday
Take Control of Your Life by Mel Robbins

Apps
Webull / Crypto.com / Audible / Zillow

Youtube Channel
Meet Kevin / ClearVaule Tax / Graham Stephan

Pricing:

• https://www.mainstagefinancial.com/services/pricing

Contact Info:

• Website: https://mainstagefinancial.com
• Instagram: @mainstagefinancial