Most entrepreneurs talk about building wealth, but few look at the technologies that will shape our financial future.
In this episode of Innovate & Overcome, I sit down with Dean Owen, a long‑time friend, CPA and environmental innovator.
Dean isn’t just a top accountant—he’s also on the front lines of the hydrogen revolution, investing in technology that cleans carbon out of engines and holds the potential to reshape our economy.
I first met Dean over twenty years ago through our professional circles. Over the years I’ve watched him scale his firm, M Dean Owen CPA, to manage hundreds of millions in client assets while simultaneously pursuing bold ideas like hydrogen fuel.
Our recent conversation left me energized about the future of technology and finance—and reminded me why curiosity and optimism are essential traits for anyone who wants to build generational wealth.
Why Hydrogen Matters for Wealth Builders
Dean and I began by talking about why he’s so passionate about hydrogen energy. Hydrogen isn’t just a buzzword. According to a 2024 McKinsey report highlighted by WtEnergy, the global hydrogen market could reach $2.5 trillion per year by 2050, supplying nearly 18 percent of the world’s final energy demand. Investments in production and infrastructure are already accelerating, and the International Energy Agency estimates that global spending on hydrogen technology could exceed $300 billion by 2030.
“Clean hydrogen is the Swiss‑Army knife of decarbonization, and it has so many potential uses that it’s hard to overstate its impact,” notes Bill Gates. Dean echoed this sentiment, telling me that competition and innovation go hand in hand. Rather than fearing disruption, he welcomes it. “When new technologies emerge, they force us to think differently. That’s how breakthroughs happen,” he said.
Embrace Competition, Stay Curious
One of my favorite moments in our conversation was when Dean described his outlook on competition. “Welcome competition, embrace innovation and stay curious,” he told me. Dean believes that positivity attracts opportunities. Instead of worrying about rivals, he focuses on developing unique solutions for his clients and staying open to new ideas.
That mindset has served him well. When he first started investing in hydrogen‑cleaning technology, many people were skeptical. Today, the market is exploding. McKinsey expects hydrogen to power everything from heavy‑duty trucks to industrial furnaces, and Dean’s early curiosity positioned him to participate in that growth.
Innovate Locally, Think Globally
Dean pointed out that innovation often starts in your own backyard. His hydrogen venture began with a small Kentucky‑based startup using hydrogen to clean carbon from diesel engines. What started as a local solution is now gaining national attention.
This resonated with me because so many entrepreneurs believe they have to relocate to Silicon Valley or Toronto to build wealth. In reality, the next big idea might be right down the road. By combining financial expertise with cutting‑edge technology, Dean is proving that you can build a global impact from a local base.
Lessons for Entrepreneurs and Investors
Throughout our conversation, a few themes stood out that I believe are valuable for anyone on the wealth‑building journey:
- Curiosity creates opportunity. The most successful entrepreneurs I know—Dean included—are lifelong learners. They read, ask questions and look for patterns that others miss. When you cultivate curiosity, you’re more likely to spot emerging technologies before they become mainstream.
- Positivity attracts innovation. Dean wakes up excited about his work. That positive energy draws like‑minded people and projects into his orbit. It’s a simple yet powerful reminder that your mindset directly impacts your results.
- Invest in what you understand. Hydrogen may sound futuristic, but Dean understands the underlying science and business model. He didn’t jump on a trend—he did the research and invested in a company whose technology makes financial sense. If you’re considering new asset classes, take the time to understand them fully.
- Build a strong community. Dean credits much of his success to his network of mentors and peers. Surround yourself with people who challenge you and share your values. Communities like Epic FIT and the Infinite Banking network have been invaluable in my own journey.
Bringing It All Together
At the end of the day, this conversation reminded me that technology and finance aren’t separate worlds—they’re deeply interconnected. Advances like green hydrogen will create new industries, new jobs and new ways to generate wealth. Entrepreneurs who stay curious, welcome competition and align themselves with innovative partners will be positioned to thrive.
If you enjoyed this discussion with Dean, you might also like my conversation with Mark Fujiwara about prioritizing mental health as an entrepreneur. Both discussions highlight the importance of building wealth with intention—balancing financial growth with personal well‑being and purpose.
Key takeaway: The future belongs to those who innovate and adapt. By embracing emerging technologies like hydrogen and combining them with sound financial principles, you can build a resilient and prosperous future for yourself and your family.
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