Accounting High
Accounting High is the premier practice management podcast for tax and accounting firm owners. Join us for conversations about running a modern accounting practice in the cloud. We are the next generation of accounting professionals questioning the state of the accounting profession.
Wed, March 19, 2025
252 The Artist vs The Entrepreneur (feat. Ron Baker)
Episode 252 FACULTY: Ron Baker CLASS: #TheGuide Scotty’s back in the Office with our Principal, Ron Baker, and he has a copy of "The Creative Act: A Way of Being" by Rick Rubin. In this book report, they cover a wide range of topics, including creativity in art and accounting, the quest for efficiency, the role of humor in art, and the importance of paying attention to your surroundings. The conversation also touches on the challenges of being an entrepreneur and artist, the subjective nature of value, and the evolution of an artist's work. This engaging and thought-provoking discussion is a must-listen for anyone interested in creativity, art, or entrepreneurship. Tune in to hear more from Scott and Ron on "The Creative Act" and its many insights. All the Shoutouts: Greg Kyte, CPA , Rick Rubin, Broken Record, Jason Ackerman, CPA, CFP®, CGMA , Times up, Jasper , Conversations with Tyler, South Park, Arthur Schopenhauer, John Wooten, James Clear, Simon Sinek, Tim Williams , Nikole Mackenzie , David C. Baker , Caddyshack, Dave Chappelle, Terrell A Turner, CPA , Kenji Kuramoto , James Ashford , Michelle Weinstein , Tim Ferriss , Leonard Cohen, Bob Dylan, John Lennon, Eminem, Paul McCartney, Beatles, Elvis Presley, Sage , Thriveal , The Crux, Momentum Accounting, Inc , Mortimer J. Adler
Wed, March 12, 2025
251 Making Moments that Move the Needle on Purpose (feat. Paul Dunn)
Episode 251 FACULTY: Paul Dunn CLASS: #TheGuide Join Scott as he sits down with Paul Dunn, an author and a veteran in the accounting profession with over 30 years of experience. From the eye of a cyclone in Brisbane, Paul shares profound insights on finding purpose and creating a lasting impact. They delve into the importance of driving businesses beyond mere tools to creating significant outcomes, leveraging AI in transformation, and reframing business strategies to enrich the lives of both clients and team members. Paul also introduces B1G1, his initiative for making a social impact with every business transaction. Tune in for a compelling discussion that aims to inspire accountants and business owners to stand for something bigger than themselves. 📣 Shout Outs: Ron Baker, Rick Payne, James Clear, Daniel Preistly, Joseph Pine II, Substack, Steve Jobs, Mr. Rogers 📚 Books Referenced 📚 “Times UP” by Paul Dunn and Ron Baker “Firm of the Future” by Paul Dunn and Ron Baker “Atomic Habits” by James Clear “The Experience Economy” by Joseph Pine II and James H. Gilmore “The Transformation Economy” by Joseph Pine II Chapters: 00:00 Teaser 01:29 Introduction 03:38 Purpose and Legacy 13:23 The Accountants Bootcamp 14:17 Creating History, Not Reporting It 23:35 The Power of Small Changes 25:12 The Importance of Punctuality 26:07 Reframing Proposals as Plans 28:36 Chat GPT 33:17 Transforming Lives Through Accounting 48:50 The Role of Storytelling in Business 52:33 Creating a Positive Work Environment 🔗 Connect With Us On Linkedin! 🔗 Paul Dunn 📎 https://www.linkedin.com/in/paulb1g1/ Scotty OKR Scarano 📎 https://www.linkedin.com/in/scottscarano/ Accounting High 📎 https://www.linkedin.com/company/accounting-high/ 📎 https://www.accountinghigh.com/ Tags: The Guide, Accounting High, Accounting, Podcast, Guidance, Vision, Firm Owners, Advice, Purpose, Legacy, Accounting Profession
Wed, March 05, 2025
250 Escape From No Man's Land (feat. Ryan Bakke, CPA)
Episode 250 FACULTY: Ryan Bakke, CPA CLASS: #Shoperations In this episode, Ryan Bakke, CPA discusses his incredible journey of building a $3 million accounting firm by the age of 26. Ryan shares insights on the importance of a good hook in marketing, strategies for running a successful firm, and leveraging social proof through platforms like Facebook. He also delves into his motivations for leaving Deloitte, the value of mentorship, and his future goals for rapid growth and acquisition within the accounting profession. Ryan's story is a testament to how far standing on the shoulders of giants can get you. 📣 Shout Outs: Dominic Piscopo, Big 4 Transparency, Brandon Hall, Deloitte, Tax Strategy 365, Bilal Mehanna, Becker, Bill Faith, Billy Mays, Driven, Logan Graf, Jason Staats 📚 Books Referenced 📚 “How to Win Friends and Influence People” by Dale Carnegie “48 Laws of Power” by Robert Greene Chapters: 00:00 Teaser 00:17 Introduction 01:17 Early Influences and Career Choices 03:30 Journey Through Deloitte 08:55 Building a Community and Brand 15:20 The Importance of Email Marketing 22:29 Attention as the New Oil 26:24 Building a Community Funnel 26:41 The Power of a Hook 27:28 Real-Life Hook Examples 29:01 The Importance of Community 32:37 Understanding Customer Motivation 38:08 Avoiding Feature Vomiting 48:14 Acquisitions and Future Goals 50:21 Parting Wisdom for Success 🔗 Connect With Us On LinkedIn! 🔗 Ryan Bakke, CPA 📎 https://www.linkedin.com/in/ryanbakkecpa/ Tax Strategy 365 📎 https://www.linkedin.com/company/tax-strategy-365/ Scotty OKR Scarano 📎 https://www.linkedin.com/in/scottscarano/ Accounting High 📎 https://www.linkedin.com/company/accounting-high/ 📎 https://www.accountinghigh.com/ Tags: Shoperations, Accounting High, Accounting, Podcast, Shop Class, Firm Operations, Systems And Processes, Taxes, Sales, Marketing
Wed, February 26, 2025
249 Throw Your Phone in the Ocean and Follow the Money (feat. Shane Mason, CPA/CFP)
Episode 249 FACULTY: Shane Mason, CPA/CFP CLASS: #Shoperations Join us in this Shoperations episode as we learn from Shane Mason of Brooklyn FI and his venture into software. Shane shares insights into the company's growth, handling rapid expansion, and the importance of predicting the future over dwelling on the past. Discover how Brooklyn FI is navigating industry shifts, introducing new partners, and staying ahead with innovative solutions like Gemifi. Perfect for students and professionals eager to learn about financial planning, startup struggles, and the evolving landscape of tech-driven advisory services. 📣 Shout Outs: Brooklyn FI, Inc5000, Palantir, Siri, CDF, Spotify, John Owens, Caitlin Fastiggi, Dan Beyer, Ally Jane Ayers, Live Oak Bank, Acuity, Intuit, PWC, Apple, The Liquidity Event, Gemifi, Tallyfor, Ignition, Ryan Embre, Guy Pearson, Craft Impact, Core Weave, Webber Grills, Peter Theil, Alex Karp, Backbone Planners, Deep Work ⬇️ Videos Referenced ⬇️ 051 Numbers and Love Letters (feat. Shane Mason, CPA/PFS, CFP, CPWA) ( https://youtu.be/Pkn_JPfwl0k ) 083 Tallyfor Product Review (feat. Shane Mason, Megan Justice, and Nikole Mackenzie ) ( https://youtu.be/xd2Zn9u1mRI ) Chapters: 00:00 Teaser 00:28 Welcome Back Shane and BrooklynFI 09:59 Team Structure and Remote Work 13:04 Client Services and Financial Planning 22:28 The Liquidity Event Podcast 25:36 New Ventures: Gemify Software 34:50 BrooklynFI's Continued Success 35:30 Marketing Strategies and Partnerships 40:26 Investment Strategies and Market Insights 46:41 Final Thoughts and Advice 🔗 Connect With Us On LinkedIn! 🔗 Shane Mason, CPA/CFP 📎 https://www.linkedin.com/in/shanemasoncpacfp/ Brooklyn FI 📎 https://www.linkedin.com/company/brooklyn-fi/posts/?feedView=all 📎 https://www.brooklynfi.com/ Gemifi 📎 https://www.gemifi.co/ The Liquidity Event Podcast 📎 https://www.brooklynfi.com/podcast AJ’s Substack: Money Changes Everything 📎 https://substack.com/@moneychangeseverything Scotty OKR Scarano 📎<a href="https://www.linke
Wed, February 19, 2025
248 Simple Retirement Plan Advising (feat. Jason Ackerman, CPA)
Episode 248 FACULTY: Jason Ackerman, CPA aka J-Rabbit aka the Accounting High Lunch Lady CLASS: #Shoperations In this episode, Jason Ackerman, CPA, co-founder of WealthRabbit, discusses the importance of accountants providing advisory services and setting up retirement plans for clients. Ackerman explains the challenges and opportunities in offering simple IRAs, SEPs, and other retirement plans, and emphasizes the need for accountants to evolve from mere compliance work to value-driven services. The conversation delves into the development of WealthRabbit, the integration with payroll systems, and the importance of customer service in both accounting and software businesses. 📣 Shout Outs: Bernie Ackerman, BNA CPAs & Advisors, Gusto, Ron Baker, Fidelity, Guideline, Human Interest, ADP, Finch, Intuit, Paychex, OnPay ⬇️Videos Referenced⬇️ $6M Tax Firm, Building a CAS Practice, Implementing EOS, with NO Timesheets! | Jason Ackerman, CPA ( https://youtu.be/PkI8FW7lozU ) Chapters: 00:00 Introduction 00:35 Jason Ackerman's Career Update 02:01 Firm Updates and New Hires 04:05 Combining Wealth and Tax Services 06:17 Retirement Planning Advisory 18:37 Understanding Simple IRA Compliance 19:14 Revenue Sharing for Accountants 20:50 Setting Up Retirement Plans with WealthRabbit 21:37 Employee Engagement and Education 24:17 Managing Investments and Portfolios 27:52 WealthRabbit's Dashboard and Integrations 34:40 Customer Support and Service 37:27 Jason Graduates from Accounting High 🔗 Connect With Us On LinkedIn! 🔗 Jason Ackerman, CPA 📎 https://www.linkedin.com/in/jasonlackerman/ Scotty OKR Scarano 📎 https://www.linkedin.com/in/scottscarano/ Accounting High 📎 https://www.linkedin.com/company/accounting-high/ 📎 https://www.accountinghigh.com/ Tags: Shoperations, Accounting High, Accounting, Podcast, Shop Class, Firm Operations, Systems And Processes, investing, wealth management, IRA, SEP, retirement planning
Wed, February 12, 2025
247 From Products to Transformations in the New Economic Era (feat. Principal Ron Baker)
Episode 247 FACULTY: Principal Ron Baker CLASS: #TheGuide In this episode, Scott is in the office again with Accounting High Principal Ron Baker to discuss the future of accounting and the shift towards the transformation economy. Ron outlines the evolution of economic eras and how firms can position themselves to offer superior value by focusing on transformations rather than just services. They also touch on examples from various industries, and discuss the potential of subscription models. 📣 Shout Outs: Nikole MacKenzie, James Ashford, Ben Stein, Joe Pine, James Gilmore, Scaling New Heights, Betty Crocker, Duncan Hines, Bench, Angus Barn, Ruth’s Chris Steakhouse, Chuck E Cheese, Nike, Mayo Clinic, Profit First, GoProposal, Intuit, Apple, Disney 📚 Books Referenced 📚 “The Experience Economy” by Joe Pine and James Gilmore “ Trends in the Transformation Economy” by Christophe Jacque Chapters: 00:00 Teaser 02:54 The Evolution of Economic Eras 05:46 The Experience Economy 06:44 The Transformation Economy 09:29 Decommoditizing Services 15:27 Real-World Examples of Transformation 22:26 Fender Play: A Case Study 25:05 The Future of Professional Services 35:22 The Future of Accounting Firms 36:37 Creating Transformative Experiences 39:49 Specializing in Transformations 42:23 Challenges and Opportunities in the Profession 43:50 The Subscription Model and Transformations 49:28 The Future of Healthcare and Parallels to Accounting 01:06:33 Burnout vs. Moral Injury in the Profession 01:07:52 Conclusion and Final Thoughts 🔗 Connect With Us On Linkedin! 🔗 Ron Baker 📎 https://www.linkedin.com/in/ronbaker1/ Scotty OKR Scarano 📎 https://www.linkedin.com/in/scottscarano/ Accounting High 📎 https://www.linkedin.com/company/accounting-high/ 📎 https://www.accountinghigh.com/ Tags: Accounting High, Accounting, Podcast, Coaching, Accounting Tips, How To Run An Accounting Practice, Accounting Industry, Accounting Practice, Transformation Economy, Service Offerings, Future of Accounting, Economics, Experience Economy, Transformation Economy
Wed, February 05, 2025
246 You Don’t Learn New Things Without Making Mistakes (feat. Ed Mendlowitz, CPA)
Episode 246 FACULTY: Ed Mendlowitz, CPA In this episode, Scotty interviews Edward Mendlowitz, a storied CPA and author, sharing his extensive experiences and insights on the accounting profession. Mendlowitz discusses the evolution of accounting practices, the importance of passion in one's career, and the necessity for CPAs to adapt to new technologies and trends. Highlighting his personal journey, he speaks on the significance of building relationships and offering valuable advice to clients. The episode also covers Mendlowitz's prolific writing career, his teaching endeavors, and his perspective on the future of the accounting industry. 📣 Shout Outs: Jason Ackerman, Ron Baker, Martin Edelston, Bill Hagerman, Gino Malmacci, CPA Academy, WithumSmith+Brown, QuickBooks, Microsoft ⬇️ Videos Referenced ⬇️ 063 So Many Things to Learn (feat. Ed Mendlowitz, CPA) ( https://youtu.be/eKG2GgYYzMQ ) 190 Transitioning from CEO to Chairman of the Board (feat. Ed Mendlowitz, CPA) ( https://youtu.be/UNobaMGSQaY ) 198 The Timesheet Debate Ed Mendlowitz vs Ron Baker (An Epic Tale in the Saga of Time) ( https://youtu.be/BP1Yq8oa_es ) 📚 Book Referenced 📚 “Memoirs of a CPA” by Edward Medlowitz Chapters: 00:00 Teaser 00:52 Introduction 02:52 What Makes a Successful CPA 03:30 Inspiring the Next Generation 07:12 Career Transitions and Mergers 09:14 Innovative Practices and Marketing 14:43 Writing and Publishing 26:25 Mentorship and Internships 31:50 Discovering a Better Insurance Deal 32:21 Lawsuits in Accounting 32:59 The Evolution of Technology 36:17 The Future of Social Media 40:39 The Changing Landscape of Medicine 45:57 Teaching and Learning 51:58 Stamp Collecting Stories 56:16 Parting Wisdom for CPAs 🔗 Connect With Us On Linkedin! 🔗 Edward Mendlowitz, CPA 📎 https://www.linkedin.com/in/edward-mendlowitz-a6a1305/ Scotty OKR Scarano 📎 https://www.linkedin.com/in/scottscarano/ Accounting High 📎 https://www.linkedin.com/company/accounting-high/ 📎 https://www.accountinghigh.com/ Tags: The Guide, Accounting High, Accounting, Podcast, Guidance, Vision, Firm Owners, Advice
Wed, January 29, 2025
245 Pathways to Private Equity Pots of Gold (feat. Alex Drost, CPA)
Episode 245 FACULTY: Alex Drost, CPA CLASS: #AccountingHigh Join us in this insightful episode of Accounting High as we sit down with Alex Drost, a consultant with a background in investment banking and business consulting, and a licensed CPA. Alex shares his unconventional path into the accounting world, discusses the current trends in the accounting and private equity (PE) industries, and offers invaluable advice for both young professionals and established firm owners. Don't miss out on understanding the seismic shifts happening in the industry and how you can be a part of it. 📣 Shout Outs: Matt Kidd, Randy Crabtree, Steve Hoffman, Brandon Hall, Connection Builders, Summit CPAs, Dark Horse CPAs, HD Growth Partners, Ascend, H&R Block, American Express, RSM, EY, Eisner Ampner, Cherry Becker, Fahrenheit Advisors, Smith Co, Smith Howard, Anders, PE Summit in Chicago, BDO, Notion ⬇️ Videos Referenced ⬇️ Getting Stuck at $1.2M and How I Got Out of the Way to Grow from Accountant to Entrepreneur Part 1 (https://youtu.be/PFEeE3hAkec) Dismantling Pyramid Schemes with Selfish Motivations | Chase Birky, Tim Petrey, and Kenji Kuramoto (https://youtu.be/cw51hauqtyA) $10M Firm, Offering CAS, Implementing EOS, & backed by Private Equity! | Steven Hoffman, CEO (https://youtu.be/TvlqZQfRchA) Chapters: 00:00 Teaser 01:57 Alex Drost's Journey to Becoming a CPA 05:02 Connection Builders and Business Development 06:55 Private Equity in Accounting 11:01 Impact of Private Equity on Middle Market Firms 24:45 Profit Distribution Challenges 25:23 Private Equity and Investment Decisions 26:53 Building Enterprise Value 29:08 Retirement and Succession Planning 33:13 Technological Advancements in Accounting 42:14 Millennials vs Gen Z 🔗 Connect With Us On Linkedin! 🔗 Alex Drost, CPA 📎 https://www.linkedin.com/in/adrost/ Connection Builders 📎 https://www.linkedin.com/company/connectionbuilders/ 📎 https://www.connection.builders/ Scotty OKR Scarano 📎 https://www.linkedin.com/in/scottscarano/ Accounting High 📎 https://www.linkedin.com/company/accounting-high/ 📎 https://www.accountinghigh.com/ Tags: Accounting High, Accounting, Podcast, Coaching, Accounting Tips, How T
Wed, January 22, 2025
244 Smells Like Enrolled Agents (feat. Matthew Cordes, EA, Adam Markowitz, EA, & Scott Scarano, EA)
Episode 244 FACULTY: Matthew Cordes, EA and Adam Markowitz, EA CLASS: #AccountingHigh In this episode of Accounting High, Scott Scarano, EA invites the EA team for a discussion about the importance and impact of Enrolled Agents (EAs) in the tax and accounting world. Joined by EAs Adam Markowitz and Matthew Cordes, the conversation dives into their journeys, experiences, and the misconceptions surrounding EAs. The episode also features the premiere of a new OKR track “Smells Like EA’s”. 📣 Shout Outs: Sabrina Parris, Nancy McClellan, Jason Staats, Andrea McDonald, Jeremy Wells, Steadfast Bookkeeping, Luminary Tax Advisors, Florida Institute for Community Inclusion, Esteamed Coffee, Biddy and Bo’s, #TaxTwitter ⬇️Videos Referenced⬇️ 066 Licensed to Tax (feat. Adam Markowitz, EA) ( https://youtu.be/QKDvKqGKM5Q ) AH Debates - CPA vs EA "The Battle of the Brands" ( https://youtu.be/HomCak8tPa8 ) Tax Accountants' Anthem (an OK.Remix of Ruff Ryders' Anthem by DMX) ( https://youtu.be/K6YfYMk0DyU ) Scaling a Million Dollar Accounting Practice | Andrea MacDonald, CPA ( https://youtu.be/pOQrJyQWce8 ) Chapters: 00:00 Teaser 01:09 Meet the EA Team 02:26 The Journey to Becoming an EA 03:17 Understanding the EA Credential 04:23 Personal Stories and Experiences 06:53 Challenges and Rewards of Being an EA 11:22 Representation and Advocacy 16:10 Dealing with the IRS 21:13 Challenges with IRS Form Submissions 21:41 Understanding IRS Service Centers 22:25 Issues with S Corp Elections 24:39 Experiences with S Corps During COVID 27:50 Intermission: "Smells Like EAs" Premiere 32:32 Transitioning to a New Practice 39:15 Innovative Firm Strategies 40:31 Neurodivergent Career Program 48:48 Conclusion and Final Thoughts 🔗 Connect With Us On Linkedin! 🔗 Matthew Cordes, EA 📎 https://www.linkedin.com/in/matthew-cordes/ 📎 https://www.linkedin.com/company/steadfast-bookkeeping-co/ Adam Markowitz, EA 📎 https://www.linkedin.com/in/adam-markowitz-ea-cslp-91b91b65/ 📎<a href="https://www.luminarytaxadvisors.com" rel="ugc noopener noreferrer"
Wed, January 15, 2025
243 Brothers Running a $1.3M Firm, Fighting Perfection, and Finding The Balance (feat. Nick Boscia, CPA, EA)
Episode 243 FACULTY: Nick Boscia, CPA, EA aka The Balanced CPA CLASS: #Shoperations In this episode, join Scotty as he talks with Nick Boscia, aka the Balanced CPA from New Jersey. Nick shares insights from his journey in accounting, taking over his father's firm, and running a family business with his brother. They explore the importance of balance in work and life, the evolution of their firm with technology, and the implementation of fair client pricing. Nick also discusses the challenges they faced and the aspirations for the future, all while maintaining a balanced approach to life and work. This engaging conversation offers a deep dive into the life of a modern CPA striving for balance and growth. 📣 Shout Outs: Dawn Brolin, PWC, SmartVault, LeCert, Bench, Financial Sense, Anchor ⬇️Videos Referenced⬇️ Melissa McCarthy for Accounting Professionals (feat. Dawn Brolin) ( https://youtu.be/GkcEXTmEVSY ) Chapters: 00:00 Teaser 00:11 Introduction and Guest Introduction 00:47 Family Business Background 01:07 The Concept of Balanced CPA 04:23 Personal Life and Balance 08:36 Professional Journey and Achievements 11:40 Business Operations and Growth 18:36 Pricing Strategies and Client Management 21:06 Future Plans and Innovations 25:28 Discussing Business Structures and Tax Strategies 26:07 Balancing Business Expenses with a Partner 28:26 Modernizing the Firm with Technology 33:41 Balancing Personal and Professional Life 42:50 Credit Card Points and Financial Strategies 45:49 Future Goals and Firm Growth 🔗 Connect With Us On LinkedIn! 🔗 Nick Boscia, CPA, EA 📎 linkedin.com/in/nickboscia/ Boscia & Boscia PC 📎 linkedin.com/company/bosciapc/ 📎 bosciapc.com Scotty OKR Scarano 📎 linkedin.com/in/scottscarano/ Accounting High 📎 linkedin.com/company/accounting-high/ 📎 accountinghigh.com/ Tags: Shoperations, Accounting High, Accounting, Podcast, Shop Class, Firm Operations, Systems And Processes, Partnerships, Work Life Balance, The Balanced CPA, CPA, EA, Entrepreneurship
Wed, January 08, 2025
242 Dismantling Pyramid Schemes with Selfish Motivations (feat. Chase Birky, CPA, Tim Petrey, CPA, Kenji Kuramoto)
Episode 242 FACULTY: Chase Birky, CPA, Tim Petrey, CPA, and Kenji Kuramoto CLASS: #AccountingHigh Join Scotty and the DPS (Destroying Pyramid Schemes) panel of influential accounting leaders—Kenji Kuramoto (Acuity Accounting), Chase Berkey (Dark Horse CPAs), and Tim Petri (HD Growth Partners)—as they discuss innovative approaches to transforming the traditional accounting pyramid scheme firm structure. They explore new business models aimed at improving firm culture and client service, and share personal experiences of breaking away from legacy practices to create more dynamic and sustainable working environments. This engaging conversation delves into the nuances of leadership, firm management, and the future of the accounting profession, making it a must-watch for anyone involved in the field. 📣 Shout Outs: Jason Ackerman, Nikole Mackenzie, Matthew May, Logan Graf, Jim Collins, Blake Oliver, David Wertzbacher, Lee Cohen, LMC, Realize, RightWorks, Ascend, EY, KPMG, BotKeeper, Acuity, Drink While You Think, HD Growth Partners, Dark Horse CPAs ⬇️ Videos Referenced ⬇️ 012 Reverse Engineering your Firm (feat. Kenji Kuramoto, CEO) ( https://youtu.be/8dWDZZ5yHHo ) 132 A Solution to the Public Accounting Problem (feat. Chase Birky, CPA) ( https://youtu.be/b1577gfJfSM ) 223 $7.5M Small Town Big Fish Swimming with PE Sharks | Tim Petrey, CPA ( https://youtu.be/yqekz3qv7oQ ) 📚 Books Referenced 📚 “10x is Easier than 2x” by Dan Sullivan and Benjamin P. Hardy Chapters: 00:00 Teaser 00:44 Meet Kenji Kuramoto: The Veteran Guest 01:28 Meet Chase Berkey: The Space Turkey 03:02 Meet Tim Petrey: The Ohio Innovator 06:06 Creating a New Accounting Culture 07:54 Tim's Unique Approach to Firm Management 12:34 Building a Community of Accounting Mavericks 16:06 The Future of Accounting Firms 21:27 Firm as a Service: Dark Horse's Unique Approach 28:05 Rethinking CPA Licensure 31:22 Dismantling the Pyramid Scheme 36:47 The Role of Leadership in Modern Firms 41:02 The Ascend Model: Post-Ascension Changes 45:17 Concluding Thoughts and Future Discussions 🔗 Connect With Us On Linkedin! 🔗 Chase Birky, CPA | Dark Horse CPAs 📎 https://www.linkedin.com/in/chasebirky/ 📎 https://www.linkedin.com/company/darkhorsecpa/ 📎<a href="https://darkhorse.cpa/" rel="ugc noopener noreferrer" target="_blan
Wed, January 01, 2025
241 Scaling Advisory Services and the Evolution of CAS (feat. Nikole Mackenzie)
Episode 241 FACULTY: Nikole Mackenzie aka Niks, aka Nikki, aka Coach Mack CLASS: #Shoperations In this episode we have Coach Mack back on aka Nikole Mackenzie as she dives deep into her journey in the evolving world of Client Advisory Services (CAS). Nikole shares her experience from starting in a traditional accounting setting to establishing her firm, Momentum Accounting. We explore the transformation of CAS, and Nikole’s Profit Points system aimed at optimizing business performance. It’s time for another episode of Shoperations at Accounting High! 📣 Shout Outs: Millie, Ramona, Ron Baker, Ronnie Lott, Xero, Reach Reporting, Paycheck, Quickbooks Online, Peachtree, KPMG, Modesto, Bill.com, Gusto, EO, Vistage, Provisors, LiveFlow, GoProposal, Keeper, Teamwork, Profit First ⬇️ Videos Referenced ⬇️ Episode 11 - Beyond Building Momentum (feat. Nikole Mackenzie, CPA) ( https://open.spotify.com/episode/1atA37jRDHV5gsYbGIKFFR?si=b73cc38b9dc34325 ) Varsity Tips ( https://www.youtube.com/playlist?list=PL7PjVlOCWZ7GkpQTLdWjKImTi2UXJ8yab ) Cash Flow Show ( https://www.youtube.com/playlist?list=PL7PjVlOCWZ7Gj5oERq9PBWTYgnY_V3UEj ) Chapters: 00:00 Teaser 01:25 Nikole's Journey with Accounting High 02:09 The Birth of Momentum 06:50 Transition to Client Accounting Services (CAS) 10:31 Early Challenges 14:40 Networking and Building the Business 19:06 Remote Work and Team Management 23:52 Understanding CAS: Evolution and Impact 28:40 The Role of Fractional CFOs 31:46 Implementing Reach Reporting 37:22 Training the Team and Clients 45:11 Future Plans and Final Thoughts 🔗 Connect With Us On LinkedIn! 🔗 Nikole Mackenzie 📎 https://www.linkedin.com/in/nikolemackenzie/ Momentum Accounting 📎 https://momentumaccounting.com/ Scotty OKR Scarano 📎 https://www.linkedin.com/in/scottscarano/ Accounting High 📎<a href="https://www.linkedin.com/company/accounting-high/" rel="ugc noopener noreferrer" target="_
Tue, December 24, 2024
240 Separating Fact from Fiction in Accounting from a Loyal CPA (feat. Calvin Harris Jr, CPA)
Episode 240 FACULTY: Calvin Harris Jr, CPA In this episode, Scotty interviews Calvin Harris Jr., the CEO of the New York Society of CPAs. Calvin shares his extensive career journey, his background, his love for music and tattoos, and his thoughts on the future of accounting amidst technological changes such as AI. Calvin passionately advocates for the CPA profession, emphasizing the opportunities it offers and its evolving nature with advancements in technology. Sit back and take notes on the state of the Accounting Profession. 📣 Shout Outs: Byron Patrick, The New York State Society of CPAs, ChatGPT, Virgin Cruise, Morgan State University, Morehouse College Chapters: 00:00 Teaser 01:53 Calvin's Background and Early Career 02:11 NFL Teams and Sports Loyalty 03:50 Journey to Becoming a CPA 06:16 Advocacy for the CPA Profession 08:38 Social Media and Personal Branding 11:02 First Jobs and Career Transitions 16:28 Loyalty and Career Advice 18:30 The Versatility of a CPA License 21:26 Changing Perceptions of Accountants 25:58 Career Shifts in Accounting 26:45 Challenges for Mid-Career Entrants 27:23 Marketing to the Younger Generation 27:51 Personal Experiences in Auditing 29:02 Hope for the Future of Accounting 33:28 The Impact of Technology and AI 41:38 Balancing Passion and Profession 45:41 Final Thoughts 🔗 Connect With Us On Linkedin! 🔗 Calvin Harris Jr, CPA 📎 https://www.linkedin.com/in/calvinhjr/ The New York State Society of CPAs 📎 https://www.linkedin.com/company/nycpasociety/ 📎 http://www.nysscpa.org Scotty OKR Scarano 📎 https://www.linkedin.com/in/scottscarano/ Accounting High 📎 https://www.linkedin.com/company/accounting-high/ 📎 https://www.accountinghigh.com/ Tags: Accounting High, Accounting, Podcast, Coaching, Accounting Tips, How To Run An Accounting Practice, AI, Artificial Intelligence, Accounting Industry, Accounting Profession, CPA, Accounting Community
Wed, December 18, 2024
239 Growing From Accountant to Entrepreneur [Part 2] (feat. Scott Scarano, EA)
Episode 239 FACULTY: Scott Scarano, EA and Matt Kid, CPA CLASS: #Shoperations In this episode, our substitute teacher, Matt Kidd, continues his interview with Scott Scarano, EA where Scott shares the story of how he grew his accounting firm to $1.3 million with $400,000 in annual cash flow, and became completely removed from daily operations. Scott provides insights into the importance of a strong team, unique hiring methods, and embracing technology and innovation in the firm. He also touches on his passion for rapping, his struggle with growth versus letting off the reins, and his future aspirations for his firm. 📣 Shout Outs: Jason Ackerman, Ron Baker, Jody Grunden, Adam Hale, Shane Mason, Ashley Francis, Summit CPAs, Live Plan, Microsoft Dynamics, Karbon, Engage ⬇️Videos Referenced⬇️ The Model Cloud Accounting Firm (feat. Jody Grunden, CPA) ( https://youtu.be/o7ccvINvvic ) Tax Firm Adding Value with Financial Planning and CAS feat Matt Kidd, CPA ( https://youtu.be/X-_9E-4YBXQ ) Chapters: 00:00 Teaser 01:26 Building the Firm: Client Acquisition and Niche 04:18 Innovative Hiring Techniques 05:52 Embracing Quirkiness: A Rebel Yell 06:22 Influences and Inspirations 08:00 Beginning the EOS Journey 10:03 Remote Work and Management Trust 12:24 Financial Struggles and Turning Points 20:07 Transitioning Out of Sales 22:43 The Live Plan Experiment 24:14 Facing Failures and Employee Turnover 25:10 Reflecting on Advisory Services 26:45 Firm's Financial Status in 2022 27:49 Challenges and Changes in 2023 29:56 Client Management and Team Growth 32:47 Considering Wealth Management 33:17 Balancing Passions and Career 33:36 The Impact of Podcasting and Rapping 37:08 Future Goals and Reflections 37:51 Learning from the Podcast 39:16 Accounting Influencers 39:53 Closing Thoughts and Final Reflections 🔗 Connect With Us On LinkedIn! 🔗 Matt Kidd, CPA 📎 https://www.linkedin.com/in/matthewkiddcpa/ Scotty OKR Scarano 📎 https://www.linkedin.com/in/scottscarano/ Accounting High 📎 https://www.linkedin.com/company/accounting-high/ 📎 https://www.accountinghigh.com/ Tags: Shoperations, Accounting High, Accounting, Pod
Wed, December 11, 2024
238 Getting Stuck at $1.2M and Getting Out of the Way [Part 1] (feat. Scott Scarano, EA)
Episode 238 FACULTY: Scott Scarano, EA and Matt Kid, CPA CLASS: #Shoperations In this episode, one of Accounting High’s substitute teachers, Matt Kidd, CPA interviews Scott Scarano, EA, about his journey through accounting. Scott shared how his grandfather's CPA firm and the family software business shaped his early career, as well as the tough times he faced during college before finding his way back to accounting. He talked about his experiences with remote work, using Xero, and implementing EOS, all of which helped him transform his firm and himself. Over time, Scott grew the business significantly and reinvented his role, evolving from an accountant to a full-fledged entrepreneur. 📣 Shout Outs: Kenji Kuramoto, Jason Staats, Matthew May, Christopher Leon, Jason Ackerman, Bernie Ackerman, Acuity, Xero, XeroCon, XPAC, Thompson Reuters, QuickBooks, BNA CPA’s North Carolina ⬇️Videos Referenced ⬇️ Tax Firm Adding Value with Financial Planning and CAS feat Matt Kidd, CPA ( https://youtu.be/X-_9E-4YBXQ ) 📚 Books Referenced 📚 Rocket Fuel by Gino Wickman and Mark c. Winters ( https://www.eosworldwide.com/rocket-fuel-book ) What the Heck is EOS by Gino Wickman and Tom Bouwer ( https://www.eosworldwide.com/what-the-heck-is-eos ) Traction by Gino Wickman ( https://www.eosworldwide.com/traction-book ) Chapters: 00:00 Teaser 01:16 Introducing ... Scott Scarano, EA??? 02:33 How Scott Got into Accounting 05:15 College Years and Career Beginnings 06:04 Struggles and Turning Points 09:28 Building the Firm 12:02 Growth and Expansion 16:29 Challenges and Adaptations 17:42 Remote Work Experimentation 18:18 Accountant or Entrepreneur? 19:13 Discovering Xero 20:49 Networking and Growth 24:15 Embracing EOS 26:13 Visionary vs. Integrator 28:47 Challenges and Realizations 32:28 COVID and Transformation 35:38 Part 2 Preview 🔗 Connect With Us On LinkedIn! 🔗 Matt Kidd, CPA 📎 https://www.linkedin.com/in/matthewkiddcpa/ Scotty OKR Scarano 📎 https://www.linkedin.com/in/scottscarano/ Accounting High 📎<a href="https://www.linkedin.com/company/accounting-high/" rel="ugc noopener noreferrer" target
Wed, December 04, 2024
237 Growing $3.5M in 10 Years on the Islands of Hawaii (feat. Dustin Verity, CPA)
Episode 237 FACULTY: Dustin Verity, CPA CLASS: #Shoperations In this episode, we sit down with Dustin Verity from Verity CPA, who joins us live from Hawaii. Dustin shares his experiences from founding Verity CPA in 2012, starting with small beginnings working out of a kitchen table to managing a multi-million dollar firm with 25 employees and three offices. The episode offers deep insights into the steps and hurdles of growing a CPA firm from scratch, emphasizing flexibility, continual reinvestment, and the dynamics of business growth. 📣 Shout Outs: Grant Thornton, EY, 4 City Hawaii, Xero, Wesley, Zapier, Airrtable, Ultratax, CCH, Thomson and Reuters, QuickBooks Desktop Chapters: 00:00 Teaser 02:26 Founding Verity CPAs 03:42 Journey to Hawaii 04:15 Starting the Practice 05:25 Early Challenges and Growth 13:56 Navigating the Pandemic 16:16 Firm Expansion and Acquisitions 18:18 Current Operations and Future Plans 23:59 Integrating Systems and Processes 25:30 Journey to Hawaii 26:08 Building a Modern CPA Firm 28:27 Marketing and Client Acquisition 33:10 Lessons from Acquisition 36:31 Final Advice and Reflections 🔗 Connect With Us On LinkedIn! 🔗 Dustin Verity, CPA 📎 https://www.linkedin.com/in/dustinverity/ Verity CPAs 📎 https://www.linkedin.com/company/verity-cpas/ 📎 http://www.veritycpas.com/ Scotty OKR Scarano 📎 https://www.linkedin.com/in/scottscarano/ Accounting High 📎 https://www.linkedin.com/company/accounting-high/ 📎 https://www.accountinghigh.com/ Tags: Shoperations, Accounting High, Accounting, Podcast, Shop Class, Firm Operations, Systems And Processes, Hawaii CPA, Firm Growth, Scaling
Wed, November 27, 2024
236 Firm Partnerships, No Egos, and Systems for Good Measure (feat. Joe Carufe & Ben Curtis, CPA)
Episode 236 FACULTY: Joe Carufe and Ben Curtis, CPA CLASS: #Shoperations In this episode, Scotty hosts Joe Carufe and Ben Curtis of Good Measure. They discuss their unique approach to building a new type of firm, embracing partnership without ego, and intentionally planning for sustainable growth. The conversation dives into the evolution from their past experiences to creating Good Measure with a focus on strong client relationships and community impact. Joe and Ben share their vision for a balanced professional and personal life, their process in finding ideal clients, and the importance of giving back. Engaging and insightful, this episode provides a blueprint for building a purpose-driven, successful firm. 📣 Shout Outs: Good Measure, Karbon, Adam Slack, Two Roads, System Six, Chris Williams, Deeper Weekend, QuickBooks, Ian Vacin, Jeremy Allen, Gusto, Intuit, Bill.com ⬇️Videos Referenced⬇️ The Accounting Game (feat. Chris Williams, CEO) ( https://youtu.be/AhkKXviITnw ) Chapters: 00:00 Teaser 02:02 Joe's Journey 03:36 Why start as a Partnership? 06:10 Working at System Six 07:11 Starting Good Measure 10:22 Scaling and Team Growth 17:14 Financials and Future Plans 20:24 Balancing Roles and Responsibilities 27:55 Defining the Ideal Client 29:52 Psychographics 31:09 Client Acquisition Strategies 34:12 Leveraging Technology and Innovation 48:20 Final Thoughts and Advice 🔗 Connect With Us On LinkedIn! 🔗 Joe Carufe 📎 https://www.linkedin.com/in/joe-carufe-20603621/ Ben Curtis, CPA 📎 https://www.linkedin.com/in/ben-curtis-goodmeasure/ Good Measure 📎 https://www.linkedin.com/company/good-measure-financial/ 📎 http://www.goodmeasurefinancial.com Scotty OKR Scarano 📎 https://www.linkedin.com/in/scottscarano/ Accounting High 📎 https://www.linkedin.com/company/accounting-high/ 📎 https://www.accountinghigh.com/ Tags: Partnerships, Good Measure, Joe Carufe, Ben Curtis, Cloud Bookkeeping, Business Growth, Sy
Wed, November 20, 2024
235 $70M Managing Partner is Authentic AF and Queen B of the AICPA (feat. Carla McCall, CPA)
Episode 235 FACULTY: Carla McCall, CPA aka Queen B CLASS: #Shoperations In this episode, Scotty interviews Carla McCall, CPA, managing partner of AAFCPAs and chair of the AICPA. Carla shares her innovative approach to the accounting profession, emphasizing a people-first culture that flips the traditional script of client and firm importance. She discusses the importance of technology integration, lessons learned from her career journey, and strategies implemented to create a supportive and inclusive workplace. Carla also touches on her work with the AICPA, the future of the accounting profession, and the challenges and rewards of leading through change. 📣 Shout Outs to Byron Patrick, CPA.CITP, Herb Alexander, CannCount, Ron Baker, AICPA, AAFCPAs Chapters: 00:00 Teaser 05:17 Early Career and Influences 07:37 Joining AAFCPAs and Career Growth 13:53 Leadership and Firm Culture 29:31 Recognizing Opportunities in Bookkeeping 29:49 Scaling the Business with Strategic Leadership 30:33 Diverse Practices and Technological Integration 32:11 Advisory Services and Strategic Shifts 38:14 Remote Work and Office Dynamics 42:21 Leadership and Authenticity 48:46 Future of the Profession and Technological Advancements 🔗 Connect With Us On LinkedIn! 🔗 Carla McCall, CPA 📎 https://www.linkedin.com/in/carlamccallaaf/ AAFCPAs 📎 https://www.linkedin.com/company/aafcpa/ 📎 https://www.aafcpa.com/ CannCount 📎 https://www.linkedin.com/company/canncount/ 📎 https://www.aafcpa.com/industries/cannabis-businesses/canncount/ Scotty OKR Scarano 📎 https://www.linkedin.com/in/scottscarano/ Accounting High 📎 https://www.linkedin.com/company/accounting-high/ 📎 https://www.accountinghigh.com/ Tags: Shoperations, Accounting High, Accounting, Podcast, Shop Class, Firm Operations, Systems And Processes, Women In Accounting, Leadership, People First, Inclusion, Technology, ChangeMakers, AICPA, Innovation
Wed, November 13, 2024
234 Tax Firm Adding Value with Financial Planning and CAS (feat. Matt Kidd, CPA)
Episode 234 FACULTY: Matt Kidd, CPA CLASS: #Shoperations In this throwback to Sons of CPAs, Scotty chats it up with Matt about his two CPA brothers, diving into how they each built successful practices, inspired by their CPA father. They talk about managing and transitioning CPA firms, incorporating wealth management, modernizing traditional practices, tax season, and client relationships. Tune in for a comprehensive view on growing a client-centric, million-dollar CPA practice, with insights on practical strategies and overcoming challenges in the accounting profession. 📣 Shout Outs: Shane Mason, Blunden, QuickBooks Online, QuickBooks Desktop, Xero, UltraTax, Karbon, Excello, Onvio, Thompson Reuters, Citrix, Buckingham Strategic Partners, Loring Ward, AICPA, AICPAENGAGE, Jon Gordon ⬇️ Video Referenced ⬇️ 051 - Numbers and Love Letters (feat. Shane Mason, CPA/PFS, CFP, CPWA) ( https://youtu.be/Pkn_JPfwl0k ) 📚 Books Referenced 📚 The Energy Bus: 10 Rules to Fuel Your Life, Work, and Team with Positive Energy by Jon Gordon ( https://theenergybus.com/ ) Chapters: 00:00 Teaser 02:12 Meet Matthew Kidd: The CPA Journey 02:30 Family of CPAs: The Kidd Legacy 02:50 The Value of Wealth Management 02:58 Matthew's Path to Becoming a CPA 07:26 Acquisitions and Practice Growth 14:15 Hard Numbers 24:02 Modernizing 25:43 Navigating Tax Laws and Old Tech 27:18 The Onvio Experience 29:50 Transitioning to Cloud-Based Systems 33:24 Launching Wealth Management Services 40:57 Marketing Wealth Management to Clients 45:17 The GetTo Foundation and Its Impact 47:54 Reflections on Accounting Practices and Margins 51:39 Closing Thoughts and Future Plans 🔗 Connect With Us On LinkedIn! 🔗 Matt Kidd, CPA 📎 https://www.linkedin.com/in/matthewkiddcpa/ Blunden & Kidd Accounting & Consulting, P.C. 📎 https://www.linkedin.com/company/blunden-kidd-accounting-consulting-p-c/ 📎 https://blundenkidd.com/ Scotty OKR Scarano 📎 https://www.linkedin.com/in/scottscarano/ Accounting High 📎 https://www.linkedin.com/company/accounting-high/ 📎<a href
Sun, November 10, 2024
233 Get In Where You Fit In to Shoot Your Shot at CPAcon (feat. Kendale King, CPA)
Episode 233 FACULTY: Kendale King, CPA CLASS: #AccountingHigh Join us as Scotty interviews Kendale King, CPA from Los Angeles, who shares his inspiring journey from childhood entrepreneurship with his brother to a successful career in Hollywood accounting. Kendale discusses his transition from auditing roles at Deloitte to working in entertainment consulting with major companies like Netflix. His passion for accounting and entrepreneurial spirit led him to launch CPAcon, the first accounting olympics. Discover what Kendale is bringing to the accounting world in this episode! 📣 Shout Outs: CPACon, Deloitte, Chrysler, Morehouse College, Siegfried Seals Group, 21st Century Fox, Netflix, Earmark, Richard, Denise Freming, CalCPA, Dream Con Chapters: 00:00 Teaser 01:55 Kendale's Background and Early Life 02:41 Choosing a Career Path 03:41 First Steps in Accounting 05:24 Early Entrepreneurial Ventures 09:31 Transition to Entertainment Industry 12:10 Experience at Netflix 14:27 Post-Netflix Career Moves 19:24 Introducing CPACon: Gamifying Accounting 29:42 Final Thoughts and Advice 🔗 Connect With Us On Linkedin! 🔗 Kendale King, CPA 📎 https://www.linkedin.com/in/kendale-king-cpa-💵-90916721/ KCK CPA 📎 https://www.kck-cpa.com/services CPAcon 📎 https://www.linkedin.com/company/cpacon/ 📎 https://www.thecpacon.com/ Scotty OKR Scarano 📎 https://www.linkedin.com/in/scottscarano/ Accounting High 📎 https://www.linkedin.com/company/accounting-high/ 📎 https://www.accountinghigh.com/ Tags: Accounting High, Accounting, Podcast, Coaching, Accounting Tips, How To Run An Accounting Practice, CPACon, CP, accounting event, entrepreneurship, DreamCon, Los Angeles, networking
Sun, November 03, 2024
232 Xero in on Education in the Accounting Profession (feat. Becca Smith, MAAT)
Episode 232 FACULTY: Becca Smith, MAAT In this episode, Scotty interviews Becca Smith, MAAT an Education Leader at Xero. Learn about the global nuances of accounting practices, Xero’s educational initiatives, and community events like Xerocon and Xero roadshows. Hear updates about Xero’s innovative payment solutions, their AI companion JAX, and the evolution of financial technologies. Join us to learn how these advancements are shaping the future of accounting! 📣 Shout Outs: Xero, Xerocon, Bill.com, Xero JAX Chapters: 00:00 Teaser 01:28 Introduction 04:08 Transition to Xero 08:52 Role at Xero and Education Focus 15:03 Community Building and Events 21:40 Personal Insights and Running 23:36 Balancing Work and Hobbies 23:49 Global Accounting Practices 24:54 Payment Methods Evolution 28:13 Tipping Culture Differences 28:53 Xero's New Initiatives 33:40 JAX AI Companion 40:39 XeroCon Rap Performance 45:25 Conclusion 🔗 Connect With Us On Linkedin! 🔗 Becca Smith, MAAT 📎 https://www.linkedin.com/in/becca-smith-maat-79080190/ Xero 📎 https://www.linkedin.com/company/xero/ 📎 http://www.xero.com Scotty OKR Scarano 📎 https://www.linkedin.com/in/scottscarano/ Accounting High 📎 https://www.linkedin.com/company/accounting-high/ 📎 https://www.accountinghigh.com/ Tags: Accounting High, Accounting, Podcast, Coaching, Accounting Tips, How To Run An Accounting Practice, Accounting Education, XeroCon, Becca Smith, Accounting AI, UK Accounting, Accounting Technology, Xero, Global Accounting
Sun, October 27, 2024
231 $2M Fully Remote Partnership High on Technology (feat. Kyle Geers, CPA)
Episode 231 FACULTY: Kyle Geers, CPA CLASS: #Shoperations In this episode, join Scotty and Kyle Geers as they talk about his unique path from college water skiing enthusiast to managing a fully remote firm with $2 million in revenue. Hear how the founders of Zeroed In leveraged their skills to create profitable accounting practices, navigated communication and collaboration challenges, and utilized tools like Power BI and ClickUp. Discover insights on capacity planning, client service management, and fostering team growth through clear career paths. 📣 Shout Outs: Bridging the Gap, Grant Thornton, Xero, Zeroed In, QBO, NetSuite, Sage, Microsoft Dynamics, Power BI, Power Query, Power Automate, Microsoft Copilot, ChatGPT, Microsoft 365, ClickUp. Zapier, Microsoft SharePoint, Microsoft Teams, Roman Villard, Digital CPA Chapters: 00:00 Teaser 02:27 Kyle's Journey into Accounting 04:46 Experiences at Grant Thornton 09:46 Transition to Technical Accounting Advisory 16:54 Building and Growing Zeroed In 20:52 Using ChatGPT vs. Copilot 21:37 Integrating Accounting Systems 23:31 Client Onboarding and Ideal Profiles 25:48 Roles and Responsibilities in the Firm 29:37 Internal Communication and Team Meetings 33:03 Final Tips for Students 34:07 Partnership Dynamics and Challenges 36:16 Networking and Professional Communities 🔗 Connect With Us On LinkedIn! 🔗 Kyle Geers, CPA 📎 https://www.linkedin.com/in/kylegeers/ Zeroed-In Consulting 📎 https://www.linkedin.com/company/zeroed-in-consulting/ Scotty OKR Scarano 📎 https://www.linkedin.com/in/scottscarano/ Accounting High 📎 https://www.linkedin.com/company/accounting-high/ 📎 https://www.accountinghigh.com/ Tags: Shoperations, Accounting High, Accounting, Podcast, Shop Class, Firm Operations, Systems And Processes, partnerships, remote work, technical accounting, entrepreneurship, business growth, advisory services, Microsoft tools, client management
Sun, October 20, 2024
230 AI Guide to Be Your Best Accounting Self (feat. Ashley Francis, CPA)
Episode 230 FACULTY: Ashley Francis, CPA CLASS: #TheGuide In this episode, Scotty and Ashley Francis, CPA explore personal development strategies, including habit formation, overcoming people-pleasing, managing self-doubt and anxiety, especially in high-pressure situations like public speaking and even how ChatGPT could be your goto therapist. 📣 Shout Outs: Mike Sylvester, ChatGPT, Xero ⬇️Episodes Referenced ⬇️ 187 AI Horror Stories: Shining a Light on the Dark Side of AI ( https://open.spotify.com/episode/2wAVjhBGQvgiydiOp2sPOj?si=y9Fn92lESam5N8QaftjFyQ ) Chapters: 00:00 Teaser 02:29 The Human Element in Automation 03:59 Embracing New Roles and Teaching 04:54 Personal Growth and Healthy Habits 11:33 The Power of ChatGPT 15:03 Overcoming Perfectionism and Self-Doubt 24:04 Public Speaking and Personal Reflections 26:33 Conclusion and Final Thoughts 30:12 The Power of Saying No 🔗 Connect With Us On LinkedIn! 🔗 Ashley Francis, CPA 📎 https://www.linkedin.com/in/ashley-francis-seattle/ The Francis Group, PLLC 📎 https://francisgroupsea.com/ Scotty OKR Scarano 📎 https://www.linkedin.com/in/scottscarano/ Accounting High 📎 https://www.linkedin.com/company/accounting-high/ 📎 https://www.accountinghigh.com/ Tags: The Guide, Accounting High, Accounting, Podcast, Guidance, Vision, Firm Owners, Advice, AI in accounting, ChatGPT, mental health, professional growth, healthy habits, meditation, automation tools, firm management, perfectionism, stress management, public speaking, personal development, accounting tips, professional advice, healthy lifestyle, self-improvement, habit formation, career evolution, tax profession, CPA insights
Sun, October 13, 2024
229 Carving out a Niche for Trust Taxes (feat. Ashley Francis, CPA)
Episode 229 FACULTY: Ashley Francis, CPA CLASS: #Shoperations In this episode, Scotty and Ashley Francis, CPA discuss her journey in becoming a CPA, building her niche practice focused on high-net-worth individuals, and exploring educational opportunities. Ashley shares her passion for accounting, spurred by early childhood experiences, and her growth from working in large accounting firms to running her own practice. She talks about her unique experience with trust and estate taxes, homeschooling her son, and the challenges and rewards of balancing a practice with educational endeavors. Ashley and Scott do NOT discuss: AI, Jason Staats, or Automation! 📣 Shout Outs: Alicyn McLeod, Nicole Davis, Byron Patrick, Neil Stevenson, Ali Abdaal, Cal Newport, Deep Work, Misty Schachtell, Theatre of Public Speaking, Seattle Estate Planning Society, Matthew G Norton, Deloitte, Oura Ring, Twitter, AICPA Engage, Atlanta Tax, Jason Staats Chapters: 00:00 Teaser 02:17 Introduction 05:01 The Role of Accountants in Society 13:47 Starting a Practice and Homeschooling 17:25 Building a Niche in Trust Taxes 21:05 The Power of Networking and Social Media 22:56 Balancing Practice and New Opportunities 28:10 Exploring White Labeling and Future Plans 🔗 Connect With Us On LinkedIn! 🔗 Ashley Francis, CPA 📎 https://www.linkedin.com/in/ashley-francis-seattle/ The Francis Group, PLLC 📎 https://francisgroupsea.com/ Scotty OKR Scarano 📎 https://www.linkedin.com/in/scottscarano/ Accounting High 📎 https://www.linkedin.com/company/accounting-high/ 📎 https://www.accountinghigh.com/ Tags: Shoperations, Accounting High, Accounting, Podcast, Shop Class, Firm Operations, Systems And Processes, Taxation Podcast, CPA Interview, Trust Taxes, Financial Planning, Accounting Career, Estate Planning, Homeschooling, Wealth Management, High Net Worth, Accounting High Podcast, Professional Guidance, Financial Advisory, CPA Firm, Course Creation, Business Strategy, Tax Professionals, Seattle Tax, Family Office, Social Media Networking, Tax Automation
Sun, October 06, 2024
228 $10M Model Cloud Accounting Firm, Beyond the Summit (feat. Adam Hale, CPA)
Episode 228 FACULTY: Adam Hale, CPA CLASS: #Shoperations TITLE: $10M Model Cloud Accounting Firm, Beyond the Summit In this episode of Accounting High, join the host and guest Adam Hale from Summit CPAs as they dive into the transformation from traditional accounting to advisory services. Adam discusses the journey of creating a successful model cloud accounting firm, emphasizing the shift from answering questions to asking them, the importance of building a niche, and the challenges of merging with a larger firm like Anders. He shares valuable insights on developing advisory services, maintaining culture in a distributed team, and growing a business by learning from failures. Whether you're starting out in the accounting field or looking to innovate within your firm, this episode offers practical advice and inspiration. 📣 Shout Outs: Summit CPAs, Anders CPAs + Advisors, Jody Grunden, Kenji Kuramoto, Matthew May, Acuity, Mike Meilinger, Virtual CFO, Navigate the Journey ⬇️Videos Referenced⬇️ Episode 47 - The Model Cloud Accounting Firm (feat. Jody Grunden, CPA) ( https://youtu.be/Q4r3CX3G1qk ) Episode 173 - Growing a Profitable Remote CFO Accounting Firm (feat. Jody Grunden, CPA) (https://podcasters.spotify.com/pod/show/accountinghigh/episodes/173-Growing-a-Profitable-Remote-CFO-Accounting-Firm-feat--Jody-Grunden--CPA-e294kjl) Episode 227 - $3.5M Firm with a Budget for Being Uncomfortable (feat. Mike Meilinger, CPA) ( https://youtu.be/7T6zsd0lxAI ) Chapters: 00:00 Teaser 01:22 Introduction 02:30 The Journey to Becoming a CPA 04:19 Meeting Jody and Early Career 08:14 Building the Firm Together 12:00 Challenges and Growth 15:34 Partnership Dynamics 23:34 Advisory Services and Evolution 26:06 The Turning Point: Realizing the Value of Advisory Services 27:21 Building Confidence in Advisory Work 28:51 Transitioning to a Value-Based Pricing Model 30:25 Challenges in Training Advisors 35:11 Creating a Systematic Approach to Client Meetings 38:36 Accidentally Finding a Niche Market 40:55 Embracing a Distributed Work Model 42:40 Navigating the Competitive Landscape 52:47 Advice for Aspiring Advisors 🔗 Connect With Us On LinkedIn! 🔗 Adam Hale, CPA 📎 https://www.linkedin.com/in/adamhalecpa/ Anders CPAs + Advisors 📎 https://www.linkedin.com/company/anders-cpas-advisors/about/ 📎<a href="http://www.anders
Sun, September 29, 2024
227 $3.5M Firm with a Budget for Being Uncomfortable (feat. Mike Meilinger, CPA)
Episode 227 FACULTY: Mike Meilinger, CPA CLASS: #Shoperations In this episode, join us as we dive into an inspiring conversation with Mike Meilinger, a seasoned CPA and business coach who has transformed not only his accounting firm but also his health. Mike shares his incredible physical transformation and adopting extreme fitness regimes like 75 Hard. Gain valuable insights on balancing business success with personal health, the importance of emotional well-being, and why investing in discomfort can lead to growth in all aspects of life. 📣 Shout Outs: Gary Breka Health Routine, Bridging the Gap, Deloitte, Insignia, Strategic Coach, Buy Back Your Time, Dan Martell, Dan Sullivan, Geno Wickman, Quickbooks, Thomson Reuters, Certified Tax Coach, Dominique Molina, Rick Solomon, Monday, ClickUp, Citrix, UltraTax, Rightworks, Xero, Bill.com, Rootworks, Jason Staats, Summit CPA, Gusto, Jody Grunden, Eddie Priscilla’s Live Hard Program, Pinnacle Coaching, Gordon Caudle, Enlightened Business Advisors, Peter Attia, Brant Hansen 📚 Books Referenced 📚 Buy Back Your Time by Dan Martell Unoffendable by Brant Hansen Outlived by Peter Attia Chapters: 00:00 Teaser 02:52 Mike's Journey to Accounting 04:49 Starting and Growing the Firm 06:10 Strategic Coach and Business Principles 13:51 Technology and Outsourcing 24:00 Learning from the Best: Coaches and Systems 24:34 Pricing and Engagement Lessons 26:28 Sales and Hiring Strategies 27:54 Journey to Health and Fitness 31:10 The Importance of Self-Investment 44:23 Emotional Health and Forgiveness 46:54 Final Thoughts 🔗 Connect With Us On LinkedIn! 🔗 Mike Meilinger 📎 https://www.linkedin.com/in/mikemeilinger/ 📎 https://www.meilinger.us/ Scotty OKR Scarano 📎 https://www.linkedin.com/in/scottscarano/ Accounting High 📎 https://www.linkedin.com/company/accounting-high/ 📎 https://www.accountinghigh.com/ Tags: Shoperations, Accounting High, Accounting, Podcast, Shop Class, Firm Operations, Systems And Processes, firm growth, CPA success, business coaching, strategic coach, healthy lifestyle, bodybuilding, accounting firm, discomfort budget, tax planning, outsourcing, client relationships, Pinnacle coaching, fitness journey, health principles, entrepreneur tips, delegation strategies, emotional health, personal trainer, business systems, professional development
Sun, September 22, 2024
226 An Accountant Crowdsourced Compensation Database (feat. Dominic Piscopo, CPA)
Episode 226 FACULTY: Dominic Piscopo, CPA In this episode, Scotty chats with Domini Piscopo, the founder of Big4Transparency.com. Domini shares his journey from being a tax analyst at Deloitte to becoming an entrepreneur. He talks about the importance of transparency in the accounting profession, how his platform helps accountants understand salary expectations, and his future plans for Big4Transparency. 📣 Shout Outs: Big4Transparency, Bridging the Gap, Deloitte Canada, Rewind, Lil Dicky, Dave Byrd, Reddit, Robert Half, Fishbowl, Blind, Brandon Hall, Twitter/X, Tim Petrey ⬇️ *Videos Referenced* ⬇️ _$7.5M Small Town Big Fish Swimming with PE Sharks (feat. Tim Petrey, CPA)_ ( https://youtu.be/yqekz3qv7oQ ) _Guide to Ground your Growth with Gratitude (feat. Tim Petrey, CPA)_ ( https://youtu.be/g-OTO-3YWnI ) Chapters: 00:00 Teaser 02:46 Dominic's Journey into Accounting 09:29 Transition to Entrepreneurship 23:46 Business and Data Sharing 25:04 Demographics and User Engagement 25:28 Branding and Revenue Generation 28:39 Big Breakthroughs and Validation 31:12 Current Offerings and Future Plans 40:18 Podcasting and Networking 41:55 Final Thoughts and Advice 🔗 _Connect With Us On Linkedin!_ 🔗 *Dominic Piscopo, CPA* 📎 https://www.linkedin.com/in/dopiscopo/ *Big4Transparency.com* 📎 https://www.linkedin.com/company/big4transparency-com/ 📎 https://www.big4transparency.com/ *Scotty OKR Scarano* 📎 https://www.linkedin.com/in/scottscarano/ *Accounting High* 📎 https://www.linkedin.com/company/accounting-high/ 📎 https://www.accountinghigh.com/ Tags: Accounting High, Accounting, Industry, Practice, Podcast, Guidance, Vision, Firm Owners, Advice, Compensation Database, Accountants, Dominic Piscopo, Big Four, Transparency, CPA, Salary Data, Accounting Industry, Public Accounting, Accounting Firms, Career Advice, Entrepreneurship, Accounting Careers, Financial Planning, Audit, Tax, FP&A, Reddit, Networking, Business Development
Sun, September 15, 2024
225 Marketing in the Age of AI (feat. Terrell Turner, CPA)
Episode 225 FACULTY: Terrell Turner, CPA CLASS: #SocialStudies In this Social Studies episode of Accounting High, Scotty and Terrell Turner discuss the evolution of marketing in the age of AI and how firms can adapt to the changes brought by large language models like ChatGPT. Learn strategies to ensure your brand shows up in AI-driven searches. Terrell shares his practical experiences, including integrating high-value content, leveraging different social media platforms, and personalizing marketing approaches. 📣 Shout Outs: YouTube, Tik-Tok, Facebook, LinkedIn, Instagram, Pintrest, Zoom, Streamyard, Riverside, Samuel L Jackson, Bridging the Gap, Oprah, Logitech, ChatGPT, Kanye West, Tim Petrey, Logan Graf, State Farm, Geico, Procter & Gamble ⬇️Videos Referenced⬇️ Guide to Ground your Growth with Gratitude | Tim Petrey, CPA ( https://youtu.be/g-OTO-3YWnI ) Chapters: 00:00 Teaser 01:44 Introduction 02:21 Evolution of Marketing in Accounting 03:07 Leveraging AI for Brand Visibility 04:14 Historical Marketing Methods 06:03 Adapting to AI and Large Language Models 36:27 Using Memes and Social Media 40:05 Terrel's Golden Age Model 43:54 Conclusion 🔗 Connect With Us On Linkedin! 🔗 Terrell A Turner, CPA 📎 https://www.linkedin.com/in/terrellturner/ TLTurner Group 📎 https://www.linkedin.com/company/tlturnergroup/ 📎 http://www.tlturnergroup.com Business Talk Library 📎 https://www.linkedin.com/company/1goldenage/ 📎 http://www.bizprofitsecrets.com Scotty OKR Scarano 📎 https://www.linkedin.com/in/scottscarano/ Accounting High 📎 https://www.linkedin.com/company/accounting-high/ 📎 https://www.accountinghigh.com/ Tags: Social Studies, Accounting High, Accounting, Podcast, Marketing, Social Media, AI Marketing, Branding Strategies, Content Marketing, CPA Insights, ChatGPT, Digital Presence, Firm Visibility, Social Media Strategy, SEO Techniques, Marketing Evolution, High-Quality Content, Marketing Trends, Online Branding, Business Growth, Marketing Tips, Firm Marketing, AI Tools, Marketing Innovation, Marketing Strategy, Client Acquisition
Sun, September 08, 2024
224 Guide to Ground your Growth with Gratitude (feat. Tim Petrey, CPA)
Episode 224 Botkeeper Presents AI UNCHAINED On October 8-10 2024, in Santa Rosa California LINK BELOW SAVES YOU $290, GET YOUR TICKET FOR $509 (REG PRICE $799) https://app.hubspot.com/payments/purchase/hscs_r07FYxQ5lcH36SD4YjS9gOMpmt9QnN8uODZWT2AydCTH75jxtFfhmYO2SNRbtzxc FACULTY: Tim Petrey, CPA CLASS: #TheGuide In this episode of the podcast, Scotty interviews Tim Petrey, CPA about his approach to firm growth with gratitude. Tim shares his journey from washing semi trucks to building a successful CPA firm and several other ventures. Tim emphasizes paying it forward, work-life balance, and the necessity of hiring great people. He also offers valuable advice to Accounting High students. 📣 Shout Outs: Lauren Baptiste, David Bergstein, Chase Birky, CPA, Nick Boscia, CPA, Rafael Casas, Travis Cherry, Nina Chmura, Korey Cournoyer, CEO Gale Crosley, CPA, CGMA, Deneen Dias, Sharrin Fuller, Chris Gallo, Matthew Geary, Angie Grissom, Calvin Harris Jr., CPA, Will Hill, W. Michael Hsu, Kenji Kuramoto, Mike Maksymiw, APRIO Blake Meester, Gaynor Meilke, Patrick Morrell, Enrico Palmerino, Tim Petrey, Megan Ricketts, Scotty "OKR" Scarano, Scott Soucy, Rachael Smith, Nishanth Vimalesh, Shannon Vincent, Lee Walker, Dustin Wheeler, Geni Whitehouse, BotKeeper, Ascend, The Penguin Collective, NIL Collective, Youngstown State University, HD Growth Partners ⬇️Videos Referenced⬇️ $7.5M Small Town Big Fish Swimming with PE Sharks | Tim Petrey, CPA ( https://youtu.be/yqekz3qv7oQ ) Chapters: 00:00 Introduction 00:39 AI Unchained 02:58 Introducing Tim 03:01 Building a Successful Firm 06:08 Supporting Community 11:54 Growth and Overcoming Challenges 13:28 Navigating Acquisitions 18:15 Balancing Firm Growth and Employee Goals 18:57 Creating a Supportive Work Environment 21:31 AI Unchained 23:04 Quality of Life 27:52 Advice from Tim 31:20 The Power of Saying No 33:32 More AI Unchained 🔗 Connect With Us On LinkedIn! 🔗 Tim Petrey 📎 https://www.linkedin.com/in/petreycpa/ HD Growth Partners 📎 https://www.linkedin.com/company/hdgrowthpartners/ 📎 http://www.hdgrowthpartners.com White Glove Payroll 📎 https://www.linkedin.com/company/white-glove-payroll/ 📎 https://whiteglovepayroll.com/ Scotty OKR Scarano 📎<a href="https:
Sun, September 01, 2024
223 $7.5M Small Town Big Fish Swimming with PE Sharks (feat. Tim Petrey, CPA)
Episode 223 Botkeeper Presents AI UNCHAINED On October 8-10 2024, in Santa Rosa California LINK BELOW SAVES YOU $290, GET YOUR TICKET FOR $509 (REG PRICE $799) https://app.hubspot.com/payments/purchase/hscs_r07FYxQ5lcH36SD4YjS9gOMpmt9QnN8uODZWT2AydCTH75jxtFfhmYO2SNRbtzxc FACULTY: Tim Petrey, CPA CLASS: #Shoperations In this episode of Accounting High, Tim Petrey, CPA, shares his inspiring journey from a small CPA firm to becoming an innovative player in the accounting industry. Through exciting strategies, community involvement, and leveraging the power of Ascend's private equity model, Tim has transformed his firm into a $7.5 million revenue business with 75 employees. The discussion covers leadership, firm growth, internship programs, pricing strategies, and the impact of merging with Ascend. Join us as we delve into the tactics and mindset that have driven Timothy's incredible success. 📣 Shout Outs: Karbon, Chik-fil-a, Brennan Hall, Chase Berkey, Ascend, The Penguin Collective, Youngstown State University, HD Growth Partners Chapters: 00:00 Teaser 03:12 Introduction 04:15 Intro 09:43 Time Tracking 10:16 Deliverable Compensation Plans 12:05 Level Up Program, Gamification 16:46 Acquisitions & Pricing 20:02 Client Experience & NPS 22:21 Hybrid Office Environment 26:54 AI Unchained 28:44 Niches 30:40 Interns 36:57 Benefits of Working with Ascend 40:01 AI Unchained 42:53 Next Week on Accounting High 🔗 Connect With Us On LinkedIn! 🔗 Tim Petrey 📎 https://www.linkedin.com/in/petreycpa/ HD Growth Partners 📎 https://www.linkedin.com/company/hdgrowthpartners/ 📎 http://www.hdgrowthpartners.com White Glove Payroll 📎 https://www.linkedin.com/company/white-glove-payroll/ 📎 https://whiteglovepayroll.com/ Scotty OKR Scarano 📎 https://www.linkedin.com/in/scottscarano/ Accounting High 📎 https://www.linkedin.com/company/accounting-high/ 📎 https://www.accountinghigh.com/ Tags: Shoperations, Accounting High, Accounting, Podcast, Shop Class, Firm Operations, Systems And Processes, CPA, tax, partnership, acquisitions, private equity, HD Growth
Sun, August 25, 2024
222 Coaching vs Consulting: How to Run a Meeting with Advisory LITE (feat. Chris Hervochon, CPA)
Episode 222 Sign up for Workflow Queen's Breakthrough for Bookkeepers & Accountants for $1,000 OFF Sale dates: August 23rd - August 30th https://www.breakthroughwithsystems.com/join-live FACULTY: Chris Hervochon, CPA aka 'The Herv' CLASS: #Shoperations In this episode of Shoperations at Accounting High, Chris Hervochon, CPA aka "The Herv" shares his journey from high school accounting to founding A Better Way CPA. Chris delves into his strategies for using automation and advisory services to grow his firm. He also discusses his experiences with Leadership Academy, the importance of networking, and the role of Herve AI in enhancing accounting processes. Whether you're new to the accounting world or looking to break through business ceilings, this episode is packed with insights and practical advice to help you streamline operations and scale your firm. 📣 Shout Outs: Shannon Weinstein, Zapier, Make, AICPA, Barry Melancon, Gary Wood, Zendesk, Karbon, Keeper, Scrutinize, Verify IQ, Ignition, Herve.ai, Better Way CPA Chapters: 00:00 Introduction 04:17 High School and College Journey 07:16 Transition to Accounting and CPA Journey 07:38 Starting a Side Hustle 10:42 Building a Firm and Finding a Niche 13:02 Automation and Technological Innovations 23:51 Overcoming Rejection and Finding Success 24:49 Taking the Leap: Quitting the Job 25:46 The Importance of Networking 26:56 Defining and Delivering Advisory Services 30:26 Sales and Discovery Process 34:46 Marketing Strategies and Client Acquisition 36:36 Innovating with Herv AI 42:16 Future Aspirations and Final Advice 🔗 Connect With Us On LinkedIn! 🔗 Chris Hervochon, CPA 📎 https://www.linkedin.com/in/chrishervochon/ Better Way CPA 📎 https://www.linkedin.com/company/betterwaycpa/ 📎 http://betterwaycpa.com Herv.ai 📎 https://www.linkedin.com/company/herv-ai/ 📎 https://www.herv.ai/ Scotty OKR Scarano 📎 https://www.linkedin.com/in/scottscarano/ Accounting High 📎 https://www.linkedin.com/company/accounting-high/ 📎 https://www.accountinghigh.com/ Tags: Shoperations, Accounting High, Accounting, Podcast, Shop Class, Firm Operations, Systems And Processes, Coaching Vs Consulting, CFO Lite, Chris Hervochon, Financial Automation, Business Advisory Services, Workfl
Sun, August 18, 2024
221 $4M Niched Firm Built on Clear Communication (feat. Zane Stevens, CA)
Episode 221 FACULTY: Zane Stevens, CA CLASS: #Shoperations In this episode of Accounting High, Scotty is in shop class with Zane Stevens, founder of Protea Financials. Zane takes us through his journey from South Africa to California, where he set up a thriving accounting firm specializing in the wine industry. They chat about the importance of good communication, finding your career niche, and using professional networks to grow. Zane also points out the cool perks of having a team spread across South Africa. Join in for some solid advice on career growth, managing a remote team, and tips for budding accountants trying to carve out their path. 💛 Sign up for Workflow Queen's FREE The POWER to Breakthrough Bootcamp: https://learn.workflowqueen.com/power-bootcamp Bootcamp dates: August 19th - August 23rd 📣 Shout Outs: Nikole Mackenzie, ProVisors, Karbon, Slack, WhatsApp, Zoom, Skype, Microsoft Teams Chapters: 0:00 221 Teaser 02:25 Introduction 04:51 Journey into Accounting 05:51 Starting Protea Financial 09:03 Expanding Beyond Wineries 15:02 Building a Team in South Africa 29:25 Internal Communication Tools 32:19 Relocating to the U.S. 33:56 Business Development and Marketing 37:03 The Power of LinkedIn 39:40 Starting Podcasts 42:46 Protea Conversations Podcast 53:06 Final Thoughts and Advice 🔗 Connect With Us! 🔗 Zane Stevens, CA 📎 https://www.linkedin.com/in/zane-stevens/ Protea Financials 📎 https://www.linkedin.com/company/protea-financial/ 📎 https://proteafinancial.com/ Protea Weekly Podcast 📎 https://open.spotify.com/show/1ys5AIAIqd1Sgl01uczbRK 📎 https://www.youtube.com/@proteaacademy1703 Scotty OKR Scarano 📎 https://www.linkedin.com/in/scottscarano/ Accounting High 📎 https://www.linkedin.com/company/accounting-high/ 📎 https://www.accountinghigh.com/ <
Sun, August 11, 2024
220 Find Your next BIG Breakthrough with the Workflow Queen (feat. Alyssa Lang)
Episode 220 💛 Sign up Workflow Queen's FREE The POWER to Breakthrough Bootcamp: https://learn.workflowqueen.com/power-bootcamp Bootcamp dates: August 19th - August 23rd 2024 FACULTY: Alyssa Lang aka The Workflow Queen CLASS: #TheGuide In this episode, hang out in the guidance counsel office with Alyssa Lang as she spills the beans on her journey from bartending on the side to reigning as the Workflow Queen. She tells how her side hustle became a successful million-dollar business. Learn how Alyssa navigated her career and personal obstacles to emerge as a pioneer in the accounting and bookkeeping community. 📣 Shout Outs: Drake Tax Software, QuickBooks Online, Xero, Ben Robinson’s Bookkeeper Launch, Asana, Serena Shoup, Karbon, Alex Beaton, Ariel Schiffer’s Dreampro Courses Chapters: 0:00 Teaser 03:58 Introducing Alyssa 04:31 College Days and Career Shifts 05:49 The Start of the Tax Hustle 10:48 Transition to Bookkeeping 13:20 The Birth of Workflow Queen 17:21 Challenges and Growth 22:01 Joining Together We Launch 22:40 Overcoming Initial Rejections 23:15 Learning the Art of Launching 24:01 First Successful Launch 25:50 Dealing with Money Mindset Issues 28:54 Gaining Recognition and Expanding Influence 32:48 Creating the Breakthrough Program 34:59 Launching and Refining Breakthrough 41:47 Reflections and Conclusion 🔗 Connect With Us! 🔗 Alyssa Lang 📎 https://www.linkedin.com/in/alyssa-lang-wq/ 📎 https://www.linkedin.com/in/alyssa-lang-mb/ Workflow Queen 📎 https://www.linkedin.com/company/workflow-queen/ 📎 https://www.workflowqueen.com/ 📎 https://www.linkedin.com/company/workflow-queen/ Magnetic Bookkeeping 📎 https://www.linkedin.com/company/magnetic-bookkeeping/ 📎 https://www.magneticbookkeeping.com/ 📎 https:
Sun, August 04, 2024
219 Finding Fulfillment in a Nonprofit Niche (feat. Questian Telka, EA)
Episode 219 Sign up for Workflow Queen's FREE The POWER to Breakthrough Bootcamp : https://learn.workflowqueen.com/power-bootcamp *Bootcamp dates: August 19th - August 23rd, 2024 FACULTY: Questian Telka, EA CLASS: #TheGuide Join us as Questian Telka, an experienced accountant with a passion for nonprofit work, discusses her journey, challenges, and successes in the field. Learn about her unique approach to nonprofit accounting, particularly within disability advocacy, and her dedication to helping these organizations thrive. Discover her tips on scaling a business, finding a niche, and trusting one's instincts. Tune in to see how she balances her professional aspirations with her personal mission. 📣 Shout Outs: Deloitte, Misty Schachtell, Theatre of Public Speaking, Megan Tarnow, Fast Fund, Xero, QuickBooks, Google Suite, Gusto, Anchor, Keeper, Dext, Keeper Receipts, Ben Stein, Appy Camp, Jason Staats, Karbon, Right Tool, UnCat, Tara Kelley Chapters: 00:00 Teaser 02:39 Introduction 03:13 The Origin of the Name 'Questian' 04:01 Journey into Accounting 04:42 Nonprofit Experience and QuickBooks Mastery 07:10 Transition to Entrepreneurship 13:30 Personal Connection to Disability Advocacy 19:23 Teaching and Public Speaking 23:27 Navigating Nonprofit Accounting 23:53 Marketing Strategies for Niches 24:13 Client Acquisition and Referrals 25:11 Leveraging YouTube and LinkedIn 25:38 Starting a Podcast 26:28 Future Aspirations and Nonprofit Vision 27:32 Balancing Work and Passion 29:33 Client Selection and Best Practices 32:03 Software and Tools for Nonprofits 🔗 Connect With Us On Linkedin! 🔗 Questian Telka 📎 https://www.linkedin.com/in/questian-telka-ea-78383666/ ReQoncile Financials 📎 https://www.linkedin.com/company/reqoncile-financials/ 📎 https://www.reqoncilefinancials.com/ Scotty OKR Scarano 📎 https://www.linkedin.com/in/scottscarano/ Accounting High 📎 https://www.linkedin.com/company/accounting-high/ 📎<a href="https://www.
Sun, July 28, 2024
218 Offering Fractional CFO Services, Implementing EOS, and CMA vs CPA (feat. Lukas Sundahl, CMA)
Episode 218 FACULTY: Lukas Sundahl, CMA CLASS: #Shoperations In this episode, Lukas Sundahl, the Founder of Accounting Couture, discusses the opportunities in accounting and explains the differences between CMA and CPA. Discover insights into offering Fractional CFO services, implementing EOS, and valuable advice for aspiring accountants considering different certifications. Plus, he talks about how he turned his interest in accounting into a successful personal brand. 📣 Shout Outs: Backbone CFO, Michael King, The CFO Accelerator, QBO, Business Central, Microsoft, Gary Vaynerchuk, Dan Martell, Gino Wickman 📚 Book Recommendations 📚 Crushing It by Gary Vaynerchuk Buy Back Your Time by Dan Martell Traction by Gino Wickman ⬇️Episodes Referenced⬇️ Episode 170 - Accelerating Impact by Thinking Differently (feat. Michael King, CFO) https://open.spotify.com/episode/55ejcvgcbi21ZzgD1ID6jx?si=5HkgamdcQSmhAb6l8sTZ_Q Chapters: 0:00 Teaser 02:20 Lucas Sundahl's Journey 03:05 Transition to Accounting 04:36 Career Progression in Accounting 06:01 Choosing the CMA Over the CPA 09:10 Starting Accounting Couture 10:51 Building a Brand on TikTok 16:49 Networking and Opportunities 18:05 Offering CFO Services 23:24 Joining a Fractional CFO Firm 25:24 Introduction to Backbone CFO 25:35 The Role of a Fractional CFO 27:13 Systematizing with EOS 28:22 Building Backbone's Offerings with EOS 29:50 Team Structure and Growth 30:54 Focusing on High-Value Work 38:53 Promoting Accounting Couture 43:09 Buy Back Your Time 45:46 Parting Advice and Mentorship 🔗 Connect With Us On LinkedIn! 🔗 Lukas Sundahl 📎 https://www.linkedin.com/in/lukasnsundahl/ Scotty OKR Scarano 📎 https://www.linkedin.com/in/scottscarano/ Accounting High 📎 https://www.linkedin.com/company/accounting-high/ 📎 https://www.accountinghigh.com/ Tags: #Shoperations #AccountingHigh #Accounting #Podcast #ShopClass #FirmOperations #SystemsAndProcesses #FractionalCFO #AccountingServices #CMAvsCPA #EOSImplementation #LukasSundahl #AccountingCareer #TikTokMarketing #CPAExam #CMAExam #CFOServices #BusinessStrategy #ERPSystems #AccountingCouture #AccountingCreativity #ManagementAccounting #FinanceDegree #EntrepreneurialOperatingSystem #StrategicPlanning #ManufacturingAccounting #FinancialForecasting
Sun, July 21, 2024
217 Timeless Guidance from an Accounting Student (feat. Chayton Farlee)
Episode 217 FACULTY: Chayton Farlee CLASS: #TheGuide Join us in this enlightening episode where young accounting professional Chayton Farlee shares his journey of discovering the vibrant side of accounting beyond the classroom. Tune in to hear his insightful conversation on breaking free from the traditional 'Big Four' mindset, the importance of real-world experience, and his passion for making accounting both fun and impactful. 📣 Shout Outs: Blake Oliver, David Leary, Cloud Accounting Podcast, Logan Graff, Jason Staats, Ryan Lazanis, Liz Mason, XeroCon, Scaling New Heights, Randy Crabtree, The Unique CPA, EY, Xero, QuickBooks, TaxDome, Karbon, Ramp, Ignition, Relay Chapters: 0:00 Teaser 1:54 Meet Chayton Farlee 2:19 Discovering a New Path in Accounting 4:00 Choosing Between Big Four and Small Firm 4:40 The Importance of Family and Work-Life Balance 14:05 Chayton's Podcast: Networking and Learning 19:07 Applying Knowledge to Internship 23:53 Real Life Accounting vs The Classroom 26:41 The Future of Accounting 28:56 Breaking Free from the Big Four 29:44 The Pipeline Problem 36:41 The Importance of Soft Skills 37:55 Diverse Client Portfolios and Services 38:48 Exploring the Tech Stack 44:22 Xero, XeroCon, and the Xero Rap 51:17 Advice for Aspiring Accountants 🔗 Connect With Us On Linkedin! 🔗 Chayton Farlee 📎 https://www.linkedin.com/in/chaytonfarlee/ The Accounting Conversations Podcast 📎 https://open.spotify.com/show/5J7B7qft08XDn975BvE8Qo?si=b64ee72daf274ee5 Scotty OKR Scarano 📎 https://www.linkedin.com/in/scottscarano/ Accounting High 📎 https://www.linkedin.com/company/accounting-high/ 📎 https://www.accountinghigh.com/ Tags: The Guide, Accounting High, Accounting, Podcast, Guidance, Vision, Firm Owners, Advice, Accounting Journey, Chayton Farlee, Internship Experience, Big Four vs Small Firm, Accounting Podcasts, Remote Firm, CAAS Firms, Accounting Education, Work-Life Balance, Family Priorities, Career Paths, Young Professionals, Accounting Innovation, Networking Tips, Real World Accounting, Tech Stack, XeroCon, TaxDome Implementation, Bookkeeping, Small Business Advisory
Sun, July 14, 2024
216 Market, Grow, Teach, and Lead with a $10M Mindset (feat. Alyssa J. Dillon)
Episode 216 FACULTY: Alyssa J. Dillon CLASS: #SocialStudies In this episode, we explore the inspiring journey of Alyssa J. Dillon from an unwilling accounting student to a successful entrepreneur and profit strategist. Learn how Alyssa built her brand, established herself as a marketing expert, and how she now mentors accountants on leveraging social media and marketing strategies to grow their firms. This episode is packed with insights on overcoming imposter syndrome, harnessing the power of social media, scaling businesses, and much more. Tune in to discover the keys to taking your accounting practice to the next level! 📣 Shout Outs: Randy Crabtree, Jody Grunden Chapters: 0:00 Teaser 01:29 Introduction 01:42 Discovering Accounting High 02:33 Alyssa's Journey into Accounting 04:37 From College to CFO 06:10 Starting a Fractional CFO Company 07:40 Building an Online Presence 09:45 Creating a Unique Value Proposition 13:33 Transition to Teaching Accountants 24:20 Marketing for Accountants: Beyond the CPA License 26:11 Overcoming Visibility Challenges in Marketing 26:58 Leveraging Social Media for Business Growth 30:17 Building a Team and Transferring Authority 34:12 Scaling Your Business: Mindset and Strategies 40:01 Final Advice for Aspiring CEOs 🔗 Connect With Us On Linkedin! 🔗 Alyssa J. Dillon 📎 https://www.linkedin.com/in/alyssa-dillon/ 📎 https://alyssajdillon.com/ Scotty OKR Scarano 📎 https://www.linkedin.com/in/scottscarano/ Accounting High 📎 https://www.linkedin.com/company/accounting-high/ 📎 https://www.accountinghigh.com/ Tags: SocialStudies, AccountingHigh, Accounting, Podcast, Marketing, SocialMedia, Market Grow, Teach Lead, Account High, Business Strategy, Profit Mindset, Entrepreneur, Marketing Tactics, Fractional CFO, Online Presence, Finance Tips, Business Coaching, Accounting Strategy, Digital Marketing, Social Network Marketing, Growth Mindset, Business Development, Marketing Tips, Financial Strategy
Sun, July 07, 2024
215 Cracking the Code in Creating a Happy Accounting Firm (feat Samantha Musser, CPA)
Episode 215 FACULTY: Samantha Musser, CPA CLASS: #TheGuide In this episode of Accounting High, we sit down in the guidance counselor’s office with Samantha Musser, CPA also known as 'The Happy Accountant'. Samantha shares her journey from studying fashion merchandising to becoming a CPA and starting her own accounting firm. She discusses the key to happiness in the accounting profession. Learn about Samantha's unique approach to creating a happy and efficient accounting practice, her strategies for maintaining work-life balance, and her upcoming venture to help other accountants build their own successful practices. 📣 Shout Outs: Monday.com Chapters: 0:00 Teaser 01:49 Introduction 03:26 Samantha's Journey into Accounting 05:52 Building a Happy Accounting Firm 14:54 Being a Happy Accountant 23:17 Finding Happiness in Business 23:46 The Happy Accountant Persona 24:58 Client Relationships and Challenges 27:19 Core Values and Firm Name 33:02 Saying No and Specialization 36:59 Future Goals and Community Building 🔗 Connect With Us On Linkedin! 🔗 Samantha Musser 📎 https://www.linkedin.com/in/samanthamussercpa/ 📎 https://www.instagram.com/samanthamussercpa/ Chime CPA 📎 https://www.chime.cpa/ Scotty OKR Scarano 📎 https://www.linkedin.com/in/scottscarano/ Accounting High 📎 https://www.linkedin.com/company/accounting-high/ 📎 https://www.accountinghigh.com/ Tags: Accounting, Happiness, CPA, Firm, Outsourcing, Efficiency, Business, Processes, Clients, Workflow, Marketing, LinkedIn, Remote, Growth, Innovation, Community, Consulting, Tax-free, Work-life balance, Course
Sun, June 30, 2024
214 Grow and Scale Your Tax Practice OR Have More Freedom and Fun? (feat. Yuri Kapilovich, CPA)
Episode 214 FACULTY: Yuri Kapilovich, CPA CLASS: #Shoperations In this episode of Accounting High, Scott interviews Yuri Kapilovich, the 'Fun CPA,' to discuss his non-traditional approach to running a CPA practice. They explore Yuri's career journey from numerous CPA firms to his own practice, emphasizing his pursuit of individual tax over corporate tax and his strategy for maintaining a balanced and enjoyable work life. Scott and Yuri discuss the challenges of scaling his firm while preserving his lifestyle, and the unique value he offers to clients and potential hires. 📣 Shout Out: EY Chapters: 0:00 Teaser 02:54 Yuri's Journey to Becoming a CPA 07:30 Challenges in Public Accounting 13:28 Decision to Go Independent 18:31 Starting the Fun CPA Brand 26:48 Lifestyle Changes 28:10 Firm Hard Numbers 28:56 Deciding on Future Growth 29:31 To Scale or Not to Scale, That is the Question 39:47 Marketing and Client Acquisition Options 45:42 Final Thoughts and Future Plans 🔗 Connect With Us On Linkedin! 🔗 Yuri Kapilovich 📎 https://www.linkedin.com/in/ykapilovich/ Kapilovich & Associates, LLC 📎 https://www.linkedin.com/company/ykallc/ 📎 https://www.thefuncpa.co/ Scotty OKR Scarano 📎 https://www.linkedin.com/in/scottscarano/ Accounting High 📎 https://www.linkedin.com/company/accounting-high/ 📎 https://www.accountinghigh.com/ Tags: Tax Practice, CPA Career, Accounting Career, Business Growth, Tax Season, CPA Journey, Accounting Firm, Business Owner, CPA Advice, Small Business, Financial Planning, Tax Strategy, Accounting High, CPA Lifestyle, Business Scaling, Accountant's Life, Tax Preparation, Accounting Tips, CPA Success, Public Accounting, Shoperations, AccountingHigh, Accounting, Podcast, ShopClass, FirmOperations, SystemsAndProcesses
Sun, June 23, 2024
213 Compliance Complexities of Cannabis Accounting (feat. Naomi Granger, CPA)
Episode 213 FACULTY: Naomi Granger, CPA CLASS: #TheGuide In this episode of Accounting High, Scotty interviews Naomi Granger, CPA, founder of The National Association of Cannabis Accounting and Tax Professionals (NACAT) and the historic co-founder of Dope CFO. Naomi shares her journey from traditional corporate accounting to the niche field of cannabis accounting, highlighting the industry's growth, challenges, and complexities. They discuss regulatory issues, the importance of niche expertise, social equity programs, and the broader implications of recent changes in cannabis scheduling. Chapters: 0:00 Teaser 03:33 Discovering the Cannabis Industry 12:24 The Legal Landscape of Cannabis 14:00 Intoxicating Hemp 16:45 The Future of Cannabis Regulation 18:30 Building the Cannabis Accountants Association 20:55 Impact of Schedule 3 on Cannabis Businesses 23:51 Banking Challenges for Cannabis Businesses 31:11 Hope for the Future 32:08 Social Equity in the Cannabis Industry 36:03 Certified Cannabis Seed Counters 40:50 Conclusion and Contact Information 🔗 Connect With Us On Linkedin! 🔗 Naomi Granger 📎 https://www.linkedin.com/in/naomigranger/ National Association of Cannabis Accounting and Tax Professionals 📎 https://www.linkedin.com/company/nacatpros/ 📎 https://nacatpros.org/ Scotty OKR Scarano 📎 https://www.linkedin.com/in/scottscarano/ Accounting High 📎 https://www.linkedin.com/company/accounting-high/ 📎 https://www.accountinghigh.com/ Tags: TheGuide, AccountingHigh, Accounting, Podcast, Guidance, Vision, FirmOwners, Advice, Cannabis, Accounting, Compliance, Cannabis Accounting, Cannabis Tax, Cannabis Regulation, Social Equity, Cannabis Business, Cannabis Industry, Schedule 3, 280E Tax, Cannabis Compliance, CPA, Cannabis Finance, Cannabis Legal, Hemp, Marijuana Tax, Cannabis Banking, Cannabis Legalization, Marijuana Industry
Sun, June 16, 2024
212 Exiting Firm Ops with High Profit Margins (feat. Reza Hooda, FCA)
Episode 212 FACULTY: Reza Hooda, FCA CLASS: #Shoperations In this podcast episode, Scotty interviews Reza Hooda, FCA, founder of Capture Accounting and mentor at The Profitable Accountants Community. They dive deep into innovative accounting practices, focusing on results over timesheets. Reza shares his journey from implementing traditional timesheets to focusing on value pricing and the principles of a results-only work environment. They discuss the evolution of his practice, the importance of positioning in the marketplace, and the future potential of a new pricing and proposal software. Reza also offers actionable advice on managing change, increasing efficiency, and leveraging marketing and sales strategies to scale an accounting firm. Shout Outs: Ed Mendlowitz, Ron Baker, Mark Wickersham, Jody Thompson, Kali Resler, Karen Rayburn, Simon Sinek, James Ashford, GoProposal, Ignition, Notion, Excel, Loom, Sage 📚 Books Mentioned 📚 Work Sucks and How to Fix It by Jody Thompson and Kali Resler Lies, Damn Lies, and Cost Accounting by Dr. Reginald Lee ⬇️ Videos Referenced ⬇️ The Timesheet Debate https://youtu.be/BP1Yq8oa_es Karen Rayburn https://youtu.be/fmSwS3kYP6M 🏫 More RZA On Accounting High 🏫 164 - Build a Practice that gives you more Money, Time, and Freedom https://open.spotify.com/episode/3FXYNpnNYHSpN4PZHCmC8B?si=60c5a5b36db44885 097 - Stop the Scroll https://open.spotify.com/episode/3U5vM5fkSM3MdwV4R0YNz9?si=add709c712ff4be4 Chapters: 0:00 Teaser 01:37 Introduction 03:00 Reza's Firm Hard Numbers 04:01 Journey of Implementing and Removing Timesheets 07:05 Transition to Results-Only Work Environment 20:45 Efficiency Through Knowledge Sharing 23:04 Implementing New Systems and Overcoming Pushback 26:42 Leadership and Team Structure 30:21 Sales and Marketing Strategies 34:17 Developing Pricing and Proposal Software 41:53 Final Thoughts and Encouragement Connect With Us On Linkedin! Reza Hooda, FCA CTA https://www.linkedin.com/in/rezahooda/ Capture Accounting https://www.linkedin.com/company/capture-accounting/ <a href="https://www.captureaccounting.com/" rel="ugc noopener
Sun, June 09, 2024
211 You Will Be Replaced by Ai Machine with No Soul (feat. Andrew Lassise)
Episode 211 FACULTY: Andrew Lassise CLASS: #TechTime In this podcast episode, Scotty interviews Andrew Lassise, the founder of Tech 4 Accountants, now integrated with Rightworks. Andrew shares his journey through the tech industry, focusing on IT solutions for accountants and the integration of AI in business operations. Andrew discusses his personal transformation from battling addiction to building a successful tech company that was recently acquired by Rightworks. He delves into the significance of cybersecurity for accounting firms, the evolution of AI, especially ChatGPT, and its applications in enhancing business efficiency. Andrew emphasizes the importance of embracing AI to stay ahead in the tech landscape. Shout Outs: Rightworks, ProSeries, Drake, TechGuru, UltraTax, Zapier, ChatGPT, Excel, TurboTax, QuickBooks Online, LiveFlow, Practice Protect, Randy Johnston, Mike Rosedale, Randy Crabtree, Scaling New Heights, Bridging the Gap, Blake Oliver Chapters: 0:00 Teaser 01:41 Introduction 02:44 Getting into Tech 07:30 Focusing on Accountants 13:20 WISP 16:59 Being Acquired by Rightworks 18:50 The Podcast for Marketing 23:46 Using AI for Answering the same Questions 28:55 Ways to Use AI 35:47 Replacing Yourself with AI On Purpose 47:24 AI and Parodies 53:18 Conclusion Connect With Us On Linkedin! Andrew Lassise https://www.linkedin.com/in/andrew-lassise/ Rightworks https://www.linkedin.com/company/rightworks/ https://www.rightworks.com/ Scotty OKR Scarano https://www.linkedin.com/in/scottscarano/ Accounting High https://www.linkedin.com/company/accounting-high/ https://www.accountinghigh.com/ Tags: AI Tech, Accountancy AI, Andrew Lassise, AI Jobs, Tech Accountants, Cybersecurity, AI Integration, AI Marketing, Automation, WISP, ChatGPT, Human Workforce, AI Cybersecurity, Tech Startups, Customer Support, Enhanced Productivity, SMEs AI, Knowledge Management, AI Tools, Tech Companies
Sun, June 02, 2024
210 $10M Firm Ascending New Heights, Implementing EOS, Offering CAS, PE Backed (feat. Steven Hoffman, CEO)
Episode 210 FACULTY: Steven Hoffman, CEO CLASS: #Shoperations In this podcast episode, Scotty interviews Steven Hoffman, CEO of OnPoint Tax Accounting, They discuss leveraging an uncredentialed C-Suite and moving away from the traditional partner model. The conversation covers OnPointe's mergers and acquisitions, the role of private equity in the industry, and the structural organization of Ascend and OnPointe. Steven shares insights from his journey implementing the Entrepreneurial Operating System (EOS) and the challenges of being a CEO of multiple tax firms. Shout Outs: Dan Gertrudes at the Growth Lab Chapters: 00:00 Teaser 01:38 Introduction 07:19 Getting Uncredentialed C-Suite for Growth and Ditching the Partner Model 10:56 OnPointe Tax and Accounting - Merging and Acquisition 16:25 Private Equity Firms in the Industry 19:45 The Structure of Ascend and OnPointe 22:05 The EOS Journey 24:38 Being a CEO of Multiple Tax Firms 28:37 Billing by the Hour 31:29 Adding CAS 37:09 Who are the Clients 42:17 Advice to Small Firms Connect With Us On Linkedin! Steven Hoffman https://www.linkedin.com/in/thinkstevethink/ Onpointe Advisors https://www.linkedin.com/company/onpointe-tax-accounting/ https://onpointefirm.com/ Scotty OKR Scarano https://www.linkedin.com/in/scottscarano/ Accounting High https://www.linkedin.com/company/accounting-high/ https://www.accountinghigh.com/ Tags: Shoperations, Accounting High, Accounting, Podcast, Shop Class, Firm Operations, Systems And Processes, Private Equity, Accounting, Client Accounting Advisory Services, Firm Growth, Leadership, Operational Strategy, Professional Networking, Client-Focused Approaches
Sun, May 26, 2024
209 Grow Your Free Time and get Down to 40 Hours: A Roadmap to End Overworking (feat. Geraldine Carter)
Episode 209 FACULTY: Geraldine Carter CLASS: #TheGuide In this episode, Scott interviews Geraldine Carter, author of "Down to 40 Hours: A Roadmap for CPAs to Permanently End Overworking." Join us in the guidance counselor’s office for a book report exploring the philosophy of working less. We’re talking changing mindsets within the accounting industry, value pricing, and what happens when you combine value and systems. Reflect with us on how CPAs can achieve a balanced work life. Shout Outs: Edward Mendlowitz, Ron Baker, Jason Ackerman Purchase Geraldine’s Book on Amazon! https://www.amazon.com/Down-40-Hours-Roadmap-Overworking/dp/B0CYY1PGT2 ⬇️Videos Referenced⬇️ More of Geraldine Carter on Accounting High, Episode 131: https://open.spotify.com/episode/1m2BgirP4jQQRkOsry6gD8?si=b6a97b81f6264388 The Time Sheet Debate: https://youtu.be/BP1Yq8oa_es Chapters: 00:00 Teaser 01:32 Introduction 03:09 Writing the Book 10:09 The Philosophy of Working Less 16:56 Changing Mindset 23:55 Looking Outside the industry 25:02 Understanding Value Pricing 27:53 The Third Option Besides Value or Systems 31:22 What is Growth? It's About the Money till it's not 37:34 Meditation and Quiet Time 43:02 Find Your Tribe 45:38 Conclusion Connect With Us On Linkedin! Geraldine Carter https://www.linkedin.com/in/geraldine-carter/ Scotty OKR Scarano https://www.linkedin.com/in/scottscarano/ Accounting High https://www.linkedin.com/company/accounting-high/ https://www.accountinghigh.com/ Tags: TheGuide, AccountingHigh, Accounting, Podcast, Guidance, Vision, FirmOwners, Advice, EndOverworking, WorkLifeBalance, DownTo40Hours, CPALife, ValuePricing, TimeManagement, ProductivityHacks, SelfPublishingSuccess, BelieveToAchieve, MindsetShifts, EfficiencyInAccounting, WorkSmarterNotHarder, FinancialFreedom, EntrepreneurialJourney, GrowthMindset
Sun, May 19, 2024
208 $6M Tax Firm, Building a CAS Practice, Implementing EOS, with NO Timesheets! (feat. Jason Ackerman, CPA)
Episode 208 the Sons of CPAs are back baby!!! FACULTY: Jason Ackerman, CPA CLASS: #Shoperations In this episode, Scotty brings back his Sons of CPAs founding co-host, the Accounting High Lunch Lady, and CPA at BNA CPAs & Advisors, Jason Ackerman. They discuss the state of Jason’s firm and what the operations look like. They also discuss building a CAS practice, implementing EOS and getting rid of timesheets. It’s time for Shoperations at Accounting High! Shout Outs: Ed Mendlowitz, Ron Baker, Nikole MacKenzie, Zachary Call, Tate Henshaw, Kenji and Matt at Acuity Chapters: 0:00 Teaser 04:15 Ackerman's Firm Overview 07:51 Training and the Pipeline Issue 15:54 Concierge Services 17:52 CAAS Practice 24:17 Time Spent at Firm 26:04 Management Structure at the Firm 28:27 EOS and Systems 34:33 Clients 36:52 Removing Himself from the Firm 41:44 Building an App 47:35 How The Firm Services Clients 49:11 Advice from and Aging CPA Connect With Us On Linkedin! Jason Ackerman https://www.linkedin.com/in/jasonlackerman/ Scotty OKR Scarano https://www.linkedin.com/in/scottscarano/ Accounting High https://www.linkedin.com/company/accounting-high/ https://www.accountinghigh.com/ Tags: ClientService, Technology, Services, CPA, AccountingFirm, Strategies, BookkeepingAutomation, ProfessionalServiceFirms, CustomerFocus, Operations, Shoperations, AccountingHigh, EOS, CAS, CASPractice, Timesheets, BillableHour, Profitability
Sun, May 12, 2024
207 Starting a Podcast and Attracting Clients that Pay $6,000/mo! (feat. Shannon Weinstein, CPA)
Episode 207 FACULTY: Shannon Weinstein, CPA CLASS: #SocialStudies In this episode, Scott interviews Shannon Weinstein, CPA, the Host of the Keep What You Earn podcast. Shannon shares her journey of starting her own practice, leveraging Instagram as a brand-building tool, early growth experiences, transitioning from an order taker to a menu creator, marketing strategies, developing values from challenging clients, attracting ideal clients, core truths, leveraging the podcast for business growth, and tips for social media and potential podcasters. Shout Outs: Paul Seaton, Jess Glazer, Michael King, Mel Abraham, Keep What You Earn, Conserva Lo Que Ganas Chapters: 00:00 Teaser 07:14 Starting Her Practice 10:42 Instagram as a Brand Builder 12:51 Early Growth 15:33 From Order Taker to Menu Creator 19:28 Marketing to Your Ideal Client 20:59 Developing Your Values from The Worst Clients 24:29 How to Attract the Ideal Clients 26:46 Core Truths 31:16 The Firm Stats 32:44 The Podcast 39:22 Leveraging the Podcast 44:31 Client Intake Process 45:39 Saying No to Leads 47:26 Tips for Social Media and Potential Podcasters 50:04 Conclusion Connect With Us On Linkedin! Shannon Weinstein https://www.linkedin.com/in/shannonkeane/ Keep What You Earn Co. https://www.fitnancialsolutions.com/ Keep What You Earn Podcast https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/keep-what-you-earn/id1580071347 Scotty OKR Scarano https://www.linkedin.com/in/scottscarano/ Accounting High https://www.linkedin.com/company/accounting-high/ https://www.accountinghigh.com/ Tags: accountant origin, Costa Rica, intentional business, core values, core truths, values alignment, attract clients, repel marketing, accounting firm, revenue goals, ideal client, client intake, referral fees, podcast host, podcast guesting, business podcast, fractional CFO, long-form content, content, Spanish, accounting, origin, Costa Rica, business, values, alignment, clients, marketing, firm, revenue, ideal, intake, referral, podcast, guesting, content, CFO, long-form
Sun, May 05, 2024
206 How to Find Success in the Big Apple as a Singing CPA (feat. Steven Zelin, CPA)
Episode 206 FACULTY: Steven Zelin, the Singing CPA CLASS: #Shoperations In this episode, Scott interviews Steven Zelin, CPA, also known as The Singing CPA. Steven shares his journey, from becoming a CPA to pursuing his passion for singing, starting his own firm, client acquisition and niche development, peer review, the Steve Zelin Singing CPA brand, firm statistics, and working in-office versus remote. Shout Outs: AICPA Engage, Edward Medlowitz, Nancy McClelland, Sammy Katz, Barry Melancon Chapters: 0:00 Teaser 01:39 Introduction 02:31 Becoming a CPA 04:20 Becoming a Singer 04:42 Early Years 07:39 Steven Starts His Own Firm 14:23 Clients and Niche 16:12 Acquisitions 20:00 Peer Review 20:51 The Steve Zelin Singing CPA Brand 27:00 Firm Stats 33:39 In Office vs Remote 38:35 Another Acquisition Connect With Us On Linkedin! Steven Zelin https://www.linkedin.com/in/thesingingcpa/ Scotty OKR Scarano https://www.linkedin.com/in/scottscarano/ Accounting High https://www.linkedin.com/company/accounting-high/ https://www.accountinghigh.com/ Tags: singing, CPA, New York, accounting, entrepreneur, musician, career, small firm growth, branding, peer review, firm acquisitions, niche, nonprofit, remote, accounting firm, culture, passion, community, humor, challenges, marketing, differentiation, collaboration, shoperations
Sun, April 28, 2024
205 Harmonizing the Hustle at Half a Million (feat. Kelly Rohrs, CPA the Tax Slayer)
Episode 205 FACULTY: Kelly Rohrs, CPA the Tax Slayer CLASS: #SocialStudies In this episode, Scott interviews Kelly Rohrs, CPA, also known as Tax Slayer and co-host of the Zero to Millions Podcast. Kelly shares her journey, from her first accounting job to starting her own brand. The conversation covers topics such as balancing motherhood with being an accountant, leveraging LinkedIn, her accounting firm, changing traditional practices, the Zero to Millions Podcast, and insights on the current state of tax and accounting. Shout Outs: Katie Thomas, Bilal Mehanna, Blake Oliver, TaxDome, Lacerte, Ignition Chapters: 01:34 Introduction 02:06 Kelly's Story 05:41 First Accounting Job 09:02 Starting Her Brand 12:04 Being a Mom and an Accountant 15:45 Cultivating Linkedin 19:03 Kelly's Firm 24:05 Changing the Old Ways 28:56 From Zero to Millions Podcast 32:09 The State of Tax and Accounting 36:52 Parting Advice Connect With Us On Linkedin! Kelly Rohrs https://www.linkedin.com/in/kellyrohrs/ Scotty OKR Scarano https://www.linkedin.com/in/scottscarano/ Accounting High https://www.linkedin.com/company/accounting-high/ https://www.accountinghigh.com/
Sun, April 21, 2024
204 The Uprising of the Next Generation of Accountants (feat. Mike Manalac, CPA)
Episode 204 FACULTY: Mike Manalac, CPA CLASS: #TheGuide In this episode, Scott interviews Mike Manalac, CPA, Accounting Manager at Google. Mike shares his journey from working at Walmart.com to his current role at Google, highlighting experiences and lessons learned along the way. The conversation delves into topics such as work-life balance, the transition from public accounting to industry, creating resources for professionals in similar transitions, and making accounting more engaging and appealing to a broader audience. Shout Outs: Eminem, Greg Kyte Chapters: 01:26 Introducing Mike 07:12 Working at Walmart.com 10:50 Working at Google 13:50 Learning How to Balance Fun 15:56 A Long Commute 18:18 Making Resources for Going from Public to Industry 29:59 Mike's Content 31:43 The Uprising 39:52 Making Accounting Cool 41:55 Getting Accountants out of their Shells 49:40 Final Thoughts Connect With Us On Linkedin! Mike Manalac https://www.linkedin.com/in/mikemanalac/ Scotty OKR Scarano https://www.linkedin.com/in/scottscarano/ Accounting High https://www.linkedin.com/company/accounting-high/ https://www.accountinghigh.com/ Tags: accounting profession, CPA exam, industry jobs, public accounting, overworked accountants, underpaid accountants, accounting stereotypes, next generation accountants, accounting uprising, AICPA, 150-hour rule, higher education, Big Four, remote work, accounting skills, competitive advantage, dream job, Google, LinkedIn content, creative accountants
Sun, April 14, 2024
203 Scaling a Million Dollar Practice (feat. Andrea MacDonald, CPA)
Episode 203 FACULTY: Andrea MacDonald, CPA CLASS: #Shoperations In this podcast episode, Scott interviews Andrea MacDonald, CPA, and CEO of Pro Tax & Accounting LLC. Andrea shares insights into her journey of starting and growing her accounting practice, highlighting key milestones, challenges, and successes along the way. From the inception of her practice to firm acquisitions and mergers, Andrea discusses her experiences in building and managing a successful accounting firm. The conversation also touches upon topics such as growth goals, hiring strategies, leveraging technology and community, cultivating positive habits, overcoming challenges, and future plans. Shout Outs: Micheal Ly, Sharron at Pro Tax & Accounting LLC, QuickBooks, FreshBooks Chapters: 01:23 Introducing Andrea 04:52 Starting Her Practice 07:42 Firm Stats in the Early Years 11:11 Firm Acquisition 12:20 Growth Goals 14:52 Handling a 1 Million Dollar Firm 16:59 Hiring Her Son 20:13 The Big Merger 23:48 Apps and Community 30:16 Positive Habits 32:36 Hard Times 35:04 What's Next for Andrea? 36:26 Parting Advice 37:11 Andrea Getting Out of the Way Connect With Us On Linkedin! Andrea MacDonald https://www.linkedin.com/in/andrea-macdonald-cpa-ctc-4704042b/ Scotty OKR Scarano https://www.linkedin.com/in/scottscarano/ Accounting High https://www.linkedin.com/company/accounting-high/ https://www.accountinghigh.com/ Tags: accounting career, firm growth, million-dollar practice, accounting acquisition, firm merger, accounting franchise, service-based businesses, profitability challenges, eos implementation, virtual team, bookkeeping management, family employees, accounting partnerships, app community, accounting conferences, public speaking, positive mindset, business pivots, vision planning, client delegation
Sun, April 07, 2024
202 Fiscal Doctor with a Millennial Mindset since 1962 (feat. David Bergstein, CPA)
Episode 202 FACULTY: David Bergstein, CPA CLASS: #TheGuide In this episode, Scott interviews David Bergstein, a CPA, covering various aspects of David's journey in accounting and his insights into the profession from his decades of experience. They discuss topics such as the relevance of becoming a CPA for young people, marketing strategies for accounting firms, the future of the accounting profession including automation and remote firms, strategies for firm growth, and the bright future ahead. Shout Outs: Ed Mendlowitz, Roman Kevchak, Randy Johnson, Randy Crabtree, BotKeeper Conference, Prime Global Conference, BKR Conference, QBO, Xero, Sage, Zoho Chapters: 02:53 How Dave got into Accounting 06:40 What Dave Does Now 08:38 Pickleball 09:01 Introducing Accounting in the Classroom 11:38 Should Young People Become CPAs? 15:53 Marketing and Positioning 18:34 The Future of Accounting 20:37 Do You Need to Hire A CPA or Not? 22:26 Automation 23:44 Remote Firms 28:58 Firm Growth 31:57 The Future is Bright 36:41 Dave's Future Plans 39:19 Choosing Software 42:20 Conclusion Connect With Us On Linkedin! David Bergstein https://www.linkedin.com/in/davidbergstein/ Scotty OKR Scarano https://www.linkedin.com/in/scottscarano/ Accounting High https://www.linkedin.com/company/accounting-high/ https://www.accountinghigh.com/ Tags: fiscal doctor, accounting advisor, marketing positioning, millennial mindset, hiring CPAs, remote firms, accounting automation, firm growth, pickleball enthusiast, continuing education, FBI aspirations, IRS agent, choosing software, accounting future, accounting publications, professional services, accounting deadlines, accounting professor, career advice, accounting excitement
Sun, March 31, 2024
201 Marketing to Attract More of What You Love (feat. Karen Reyburn, CPA)
Episode 201 FACULTY: Karen Reyburn, CPA CLASS: #SocialStudies In this podcast episode, Scott interviews Karen Reyburn, CPA, and owner of We are PF. Karen talks about building her brand and business, highlighting the importance of authenticity, creativity, and adaptation in the evolving landscape of accounting and business consulting. From the origins of her brand colors to her approach to social media marketing, Karen provides valuable lessons and experiences that resonate with entrepreneurs and professionals alike. Shout Outs: We are PF Chapters: 00:00:00 Introduction 00:06:51 Being Unique by Being Yourself 00:09:26 Origin of the Brand Colors 00:20:49 Social Media Creativity 00:30:39 Makeup of the Business 00:32:08 Karen's Author Journey 00:48:23 The Second Book 00:50:36 Pivoting with Clients and then Losing Them Connect With Us On Linkedin! Karen Reyburn https://www.linkedin.com/in/karenlreyburn/ We are PF https://wearepf.com/ Scotty OKR Scarano https://www.linkedin.com/in/scottscarano/ Accounting High https://www.linkedin.com/company/accounting-high/ https://www.accountinghigh.com/ Tags: accountant marketing, building accounting brand, branding for accountants, creative accountants, marketing coaching, Scottish accountants, CPA creativity, accounting firm culture, accounting niches, ideal clients, business growth, author insights, self-publishing books, accounting industry, audience focus, brand colors, brand identity, marketing strategy, entrepreneurial mindset, business pivots
Sun, March 24, 2024
200 From High Performing Zombie to New Mental Clarity (feat. Amber Setter)
Episode 200 FACULTY: Amber Setter CLASS: #TheGuide TITLE: My Ayahuasca Journey: From High Performing Zombie to New Mental Clarity In this special episode, Accounting High Guidance Counselor Amber Setter, returns to interview our school janitor Scotty ‘OKR’ about his recent Ayahuasca retreat. Listen to find out what new insights and clarity of mind Scotty brought back to share. Shout Outs: Andre 3000, Travis Scott, Scott Zarret, Evan Eneman Chapters: 00:01:16 Introduction 00:02:44 Who is Amber? 00:03:15 Scott Growing Up 00:04:02 Mental Health and Drugs 00:06:43 What is Ayahuasca? 00:08:02 What Brought Scott to Ayahuasca? 00:14:11 The Dieta 00:19:00 Finding The Right Setting 00:21:23 What's Unique about Ayahuasca 00:24:43 Scott's Journey 00:28:47 Clarity and a Download 00:35:26 The Second Night 00:38:13 Sananga 00:39:00 Second Trip 00:44:33 Importance of a Guide 00:47:23 Night 3 00:50:08 What Has Scott Done Since the Trip? Tags: ayahuasca, journey, amber setter, scotty scarano, mental health, ADHD, prescription drugs, plant medicine, psychedelic retreat, costa rica, ceremony experience, spiritual download, dark trip, insights, lifestyle changes, healing, clarity, purpose, integration, transformation, courage
Sun, March 17, 2024
199 Hot Girl Taxes and the Hot Girl Life (feat. Katherine Studley)
EPISODE 199 FACULTY: Katherine Studley CLASS: #SocialStudies In this episode Scotty interviews Katherine Studley, the Co-founder of Prisma Tax Group and the Founder/CEO of The Only Consultant. The episode takes the audience through Katherine's unique journey, from public accounting to becoming the go-to accountant for spicy content creators in the adult industry. The discussion unfolds the challenges and successes of building a firm with extraordinary growth, navigating a buyout, and overcoming marketing challenges in a specialized niche. Shout Outs: Zoho Chapters: 00:02:12 Introduction 00:04:09 Finding OnlyFans 00:06:39 Becoming the Accountant for Hot Girls 00:07:42 Building a Firm without doing the Taxes 00:11:10 Crazy Growth 00:16:16 Scott's Only "Only" Client 00:17:07 Social Media Marketing Challenges 00:19:24 Leaving a Partner 00:22:21 The Very Specific Needs of the Niche 00:26:34 Different Types of Clients 00:27:38 Sugar Baby Taxes 00:36:55 Katherine's Parents 00:38:21 The Team 00:40:30 Biggest Mistakes 00:41:44 Client Boundaries in the Niche 00:45:21 Current State of the Firm 00:50:22 Marketing to the Niche 00:51:47 Social Media Platforms Connect With Us On Linkedin! Katherine Studley https://www.linkedin.com/in/katherine-studley/ The Only Consultant https://www.theonlyconsultant.com/ Prisma Tax Group https://www.prismatax.com/ Scotty OKR Scarano https://www.linkedin.com/in/scottscarano/ Accounting High https://www.linkedin.com/company/accounting-high/ https://www.accountinghigh.com/ Tags: sex work, only fans, sugar baby, stripper, adult industry, content creator, tax tips, sex workers, judgment-free, tax help, friendly, accountants, prisma tax, the only consultant, katherine studley, accounting, bookkeeping, tax deductions, accounting firm
Sun, March 10, 2024
198 The Timesheet Debate: Ron Baker vs Ed Mendlowitz, CPA
EPISODE 198 FACULTY: Ed Mendlowitz & Ron Baker CLASS: #TheGuide In this episode, we have a debate on the highly contested topic of timesheets with the accounting profession's heavyweights Ed Mendlowitz and Ron Baker. Listen to find out if timesheets are still essential to running a practice, or if they are the cancer of the profession. Chapters: 00:04:51 Introductions 00:06:24 Setting the Stage 00:07:50 Opening Remarks: Ed Mendlowitz 00:09:34 Ron's Rebuttal 00:12:53 Counter Argument by Ed 00:14:38 Timesheets Create an Artificial Ceiling 00:15:26 The Problem with Cost + Pricing 00:17:00 You Can't Manage People 00:18:49 Other Professions Who Bill by the Hour 00:21:22 Can Ed Go Without Timesheets? 00:23:24 Ron Argues that Timesheets aren't Necessary for Management 00:29:19 The Future of Accounting is Being Different 00:34:12 Inspiring your Employees 00:37:17 Inspiring the Next Generation Shout Outs: Jody Grunden, Jody Padar, Jody Thompson, Jason Blumer Tags: timesheets, time tracking, value pricing, subscription model, accounting firm management, CPA firm leadership, mentorship, managing people, client relationships, advisory services, specialization, talent retention, systems, processes, fixed fees, automation, AI, ChatGPT, organic growth, professional development, mindset shift, inspiring employees
Sun, March 03, 2024
197 Finding Kindness, Partners, and Limitless Opportunities in Accounting (feat. Alicyn McLeod, CPA)
2024 Accountant Bracket Challenge nominate the top 5 things in your accounting life for a chance to win an Apple Vision Pro nomination period closes March 9th enroll today at abc.accountinghigh.com EPISODE 197 FACULTY: Alicyn McLeod, CPA CLASS: #Shoperations In this podcast episode, Scott engages in a conversation with Alicyn McLeod, founder of Atlanta Tax. The episode navigates through Alicyn's journey into the world of accounting, highlighting the impact of significant events like the recession, the rise of smartphones, and the emergence of cloud technology. Alicyn shares insights into her decision to start her own firm, the role of social networks in her professional growth, and the initiation of her podcast, Underwithheld. The discussion delves into the dynamics of building and managing a team, forming partnerships, addressing operational challenges, and leveraging tools and technology to enhance firm operations. Shout Outs: Trevor McCandless, Drake Tax Software, Adam Markowitz, Jason Statham of Realize Chapters: 00:05:43 Introducing the Mother of Tax Twitter 00:07:29 Alicyn's Journey to Accounting 00:14:56 The Recession, Rise of the SmartPhone and the Cloud 00:20:52 Starting Her Own Firm 00:25:07 Impact of Social Networks 00:31:42 Starting a Podcast 00:35:01 Starting Up a Team 00:38:07 Partnership with Sarah 00:41:23 The Secret to a Good Partnership 00:43:51 Operational Difficulties 00:46:26 Tools and Technology 00:49:54 Partner Roles and Systems 00:54:18 New Firm Name Origin 00:58:37 No Emergencies in Accounting 01:02:03 Conclusion
Sun, February 25, 2024
196 Attracting Advisory Clients that Pay $5,000/mo! (feat. Paul Seaton, CPA)
EPISODE 196 FACULTY: Paul Seaton, CPA a.k.a. Rev. Swaggy P CLASS: #SocialStudies In this engaging podcast episode, Scott dives into a conversation with Rev. Swaggy P, also known as Paul Seaton, CPA, and the Founder of Agency CFO. The episode unfolds the intriguing journey of Rev. Swaggy P, from his role as an almost Catholic Priest to becoming a Cloud CPA and CFO. Shout Outs: Marcel Petitpas, Parakeeto, Ron Baker, Jody Grunden, Summit CPA Group, Brian Soloentrop, @SoleyBusiness, Jason Staats, Roman Villard Chapters: 00:09:01 Introducing Rev. Swaggy P 00:11:12 From REV to CPA 00:15:05 Becoming a Cloud CPA 00:18:45 Working at Summit CPA Group 00:22:13 The Summit CPA Group Client Meeting Structure 00:28:13 Leaving Summit to Build a Firm 00:31:27 Paul Going Viral on Tax Twitter 00:40:36 Early Years of the Firm 00:42:41 Marketing and Hiring Intentionally 00:51:43 Lessons Learned from Too Many Meetings 00:56:12 Swaggy P 00:59:02 Bridging the Gap Between CFO and Tax Accountants Tags: marketing, social media, Twitter, LinkedIn, branding, niche, vertical, pricing, value, positioning, hiring, team building, leadership, delegation, systems, processes, consulting, advisory, profitability, growth
Sun, February 18, 2024
195 Making Order Out of Chaos (feat. Meghan Blair)
The 2024 Accountant Bracket Challenge ABC Tournament Nomination period closes March 9, 2024 Enroll today at ABC.accountinghigh.com Episode 195 FACULTY: Meghan Blair CLASS: #TheGuide In this episode, Scott engages in a conversation with Meghan Blair, the former owner of Fogged In Bookkeeping. The episode covers Meghan's journey in the accounting world, her early adoption of remote work, the impact of COVID on her business, the decision to sell the firm, her experience with GrowthLab, and the unique perspective of neurodivergence in leadership. Shout Outs: GrowthLab, Karbon Chapters: 00:00:00 Intro 00:13:30 Introduction 00:19:09 Why Meghan Does Accounting 00:24:22 Being Remote Before Everyone Else 00:27:49 Working Remotely in the 2010s 00:30:11 When COVID Hit 00:39:13 Selling the Firm 00:40:23 Growth Lab 00:45:52 Neorodivergencey and Leadership 00:50:23 Post-Sale Sabbatical 00:57:15 Going Back to School 00:59:59 Neurodivergence 01:07:10 Visionary not Integrator and Compatibility 01:14:31 Harvard and Parting Advice Tags: Burnout, Neurodivergence, Leadership, Entrepreneurship, Accounting Industry, Bookkeeping, Business Exit, Work-Life Balance, Self-Care, Career Change, Career Journey, Business Growth, Business Operations, Remote Work, Working Mothers, Diversity & Inclusion, Higher Education, Mental Health, Self-Worth, Personal Growth
Sun, February 11, 2024
194 Finding Freedom through Processes, Technology, and Gratitude (feat. Teddy Sullivan, CPA)
Episode 194 FACULTY: Teddy Sullivan, CPA CLASS: Shoperations In this engaging podcast episode, Scotty welcomes back Teddy Sullivan, CPA, for a discussion spanning various topics crucial for firm growth and success. From firm acquisition to transitioning to the cloud, Teddy shares insights into fixing systems, pricing strategies, and fostering a culture of gratitude for financial freedom. Shout Outs: Chad Davis, Ryan Lazanis, Dave Emmerman, Xero, Chris Farrell, Liscio, 00:03:02 Introduction 00:05:43 Firm Acquisition 00:09:01 Buying Another Firm 00:12:18 Transitioning from Desktop to Cloud 00:17:47 Fixing Systems and Pricing before Automation 00:24:04 Financial Freedom 00:25:30 Freedom Through Gratitude 00:28:48 Helping the Team 00:30:21 The Inspiration to Work 00:37:51 Teddy's Growth Plans 00:39:41 The Team Structure 00:42:36 Offshore Outsourcing Discussion 00:49:21 Goals for the Firm 00:53:52 Words of Wisdom from Teddy 00:55:23 Conclusion
Sun, February 04, 2024
193 QuickBooks and Beyond: Adventures in Accounting (feat. Alicia Katz Pollock)
Episode 193 FACULTY: Alicia Katz Pollock CLASS: #TechTime TITLE: QuickBooks and Beyond: Adventures in Accounting In this podcast, Scott interviews Alicia Katz Pollock, a seasoned technology trainer at Royalwise Solutions Inc. They discuss Alicia's experiences in training, bookkeeping, being on the Intuit Roadshow, and mind opening experiences with traditional medicines. On the Road with Intuit's Roadshow Mac Trainer The Origin of Royalwise The Quickbooks Community Being On Stage at Quickbooks Connect Learning Management System Bookkeeping at Royalwise Challenges in Training Bookkeepers A Pioneer of Zoom Opening the Mind Future Visions The Team Opening the Mind Teaching as a Creative Outlet Words of Wisdom Shout Outs: Laura Redmond, Michelle Long, Alison Ball, Aaron Walsh Dyer, Liz Scott, Bryce Forney, Stacey Kildall, Heather Satterly, Jennifer Dymond, Jeff Black, the Royalwise team, Cypher Learning, Quickbooks Trainer Writer Network [00:02:09] On the Road with Intuit's Roadshow [00:04:03] Mac Trainer [00:06:57] The Origin of Royalwise [00:08:07] The Quickbooks Community [00:12:27] Being On Stage at Quickbooks Connect [00:16:42] Learning Management System [00:19:36] Bookkeeping at Royalwise [00:22:19] Challenges in Training Bookkeepers [00:23:58] A Pioneer of Zoom [00:27:18] Opening the Mind [00:30:49] Future Visions [00:35:48] The Team [00:38:36] Opening the Mind [00:41:59] Teaching as a Creative Outlet [00:43:12] Words of Wisdom
Sun, January 28, 2024
192 Teaching Bookkeepers and Tax Preparers to Communicate Better (feat. Nancy McClelland, CPA)
Episode 192 FACULTY: Nancy McClelland, CPA CLASS: #TheGuide TITLE: Teaching Bookkeepers and Tax Preparers to Communicate Better In this podcast episode, Scott interviews Nancy McClelland, CPA, Owner of Nancy McClelland LLC, also known as The Dancing Accountant. The conversation covers the origin story of The Dancing Accountant, all the way to tax season in Mexico. They discuss the rivalry between bookkeepers and tax preparers, biases in the accounting profession, and dispelling perceptions versus the reality of being a professional. Origin of the DancingAccountant How Nancy became an Accountant The Bookkeeper and Tax Preparer Rivalry Challenges of Becoming a CPA Biases in the Profession Banding Together to Help Small Businesses Perception vs Reality: Not Being a Unicorn Compassion Tax Season in Mexico Shout Outs: Blake Oliver, Gaynor, Nayo Carter-Gray, John Garrett, Randy Crabtree, Twyla Verhelst, FreshPAC, DigitalCPA, Quickbooks Connect, SleeterCon, Bridging the Gap, NATP [00:02:09] Origin of the DancingAccountant [00:08:04] How Nancy became an Accountant [00:14:47] The Bookkeeper and Tax Preparer Rivalry [00:17:05] Challenges of Becoming a CPA [00:21:25] Biases in the Profession [00:25:32] Banding Together to Help Small Businesses [00:27:30] Perception vs Reality: Not Being a Unicorn [00:43:56] Compassion [00:56:26] Tax Season in Mexico
Sun, January 21, 2024
191 Position Your Firm with Confidence and Patience (feat. Bilal Mehanna, CPA)
Episode 191 FACULTY: Bilal Mehanna, CPA CLASS: #SocialStudies TITLE: Position Your Firm with Confidence and Patience In this podcast episode, Scotty interviews Bilal Mehanna CPA, President of Mehanna Advisors, and Co-Host of the podcast "From Zero to Millions." The interview consists of insights into finding a niche, pricing, scalability considerations, challenges encountered during growth phases, strategies for talent acquisition overseas, and much more. Introducing Bilal Becoming an Accountant Finding a Niche Pricing Scalability Ignition is a Decentralized Organization Growing Pains The Firm Finding Talent Overseas Benefits of Being an Accountant Patience Screening Clients BOI Reporting Accounting Podcasts Final Thoughts Shout Outs: Kelly Rohrs, Brandon Hall, Xero [00:02:09] Introducing Bilal [00:06:24] Becoming an Accountant [00:10:13] Finding a Niche [00:17:07] Pricing [00:18:30] Scalability [00:20:49] Ignition is a Decentralized Organization [00:24:37] Growing Pains [00:26:33] The Firm [00:30:49] Finding Talent Overseas [00:33:11] Benefits of Being an Accountant [00:37:12] Patience [00:39:21] Screening Clients [00:41:09] BOI Reporting [00:47:23] Accounting Podcasts [00:53:24] Final Thoughts
Sun, January 14, 2024
190 Transitioning from CEO to Chairman of the Board (feat. Ed Mendlowitz, CPA)
Episode 190 FACULTY: Ed Mendlowitz CLASS: #Shoperations TITLE: From CEO to Chairman of the Board In this episode, we flip the script and Ed Mendlowitz interviews Scotty "OKR,". Explore Scotty's journey, from initial inspirations to firm growth, unveiling key strategies for client connections, niche development, and innovative billing approaches. Gain valuable insights into client engagement, consultancy services, and OKR’s. Reminiscing Scott's Firm What got Teddy into all of this? How is Scott Organized? Keeping in touch with clients Growth of the Firm and the Podcast Passing Along Knowledge Developing a Niche from a General Practice Being a Xero Homer Engage What's in the future? Consult What to Do with Time Sheets instead of Billing Ron Baker's OKR's Key Takeaways
Sun, January 07, 2024
189 Earning Trust with the Accountants of America (feat. Seth Fineberg)
Episode 189 FACULTY: Seth Fineberg CLASS: #TechTime TITLE: Earning Trust with Accountants in America Scotty engages in a podcast discussion with Seth Fineberg, the Founder of Accountants Forward, where they discuss his journey into journalism in the accounting space, the withdrawal of Accounting Web, AI, and how Tech Companies should sell to accountants. Introducing Seth How Seth got into Accounting Getting into Accounting Web Taking on Accounting Web The Realities of the Automated Practice Advisory and CAS The Fall of Accounting Web Seth's Next Move AI is not Replacing People Seth's Takeaways Client Advisory Services Shout Outs: Matthew May, Kenji Kuramoto, Shirrell Williams, Nayo Carter-Gray, Clayton Oates, Randy Johnston, Randy Crabtree, Acuity, Xero, Bridging the Gap, Jirav, Botkeeper
Sun, December 31, 2023
188 Creating Accounting Client Avatars (feat. JJ Littrell)
Episode 188 FACULTY: JJ Littrell CLASS: #SocialStudies TITLE: Creating Accounting Client Avatars In this podcast episode, Scott interviews JJ Littrell, CFO at Tuatara. The conversation spans JJ's unconventional entry into accounting through the FBI, experiences with Elliot Davis and Starmount, insights into balancing parenting and business growth, the genesis of Tuatara, managing multiple agencies under one practice, establishing an institute, similarities between accountants and dentists, considerations about partnerships, and the importance of identifying client avatars. JJ Got into Accounting through the FBI Elliot Davis and Starmount Parenting versus Growing a Business The Origins of Tuatara Two Agencies, One Practice Building an Institute Creating A Community Platform with Value Similarities between Accountants and Dentists Partnerships Dealing with Conflict in Partnerships Advice for Generalist Dentists Finding your Client Avatar Shout Outs: Thinkific, Ryan Reynolds
Sun, December 17, 2023
187 AI Horror Stories: Shining a Light on the Dark Side of AI (feat. Ashley Francis, CPA, Byron Patrick, CPA, Korey Cournoyer, Keila Hill-Trawick, CPA)
Episode 187 FACULTY: Ashley Francis, Byron Patrick, Korey Cournoyer, Keila Hill-Trawick CLASS: #TechTime TITLE: AI Horror Stories: Shining a Light on the Dark Side of AI In this podcast episode, Scotty hosts a panel featuring Ashley Francis, Byron Patrick, Korey Cournoyer, and Keila Hill-Trawick. They discuss the role of artificial intelligence (AI) in the accounting industry. The conversation touches on various facets of AI implementation, its impact on different firms, practical applications, concerns regarding security, as well as the question of whether AI will replace human accountants. Introduction What is Accounting High AI the Monster - At Keila's Firm AI at Korey's Firm How Byron Uses AI How Ashley Uses AI at Her Firm and Microsoft Copilot Is AI Going to Replace Us? Practical Uses of AI Security Concerns and AI Hygiene Training the Model ChatGPT Plugins Unique CPA Rap Shout Outs: Jason Staats, Randy Crabtree, Bridging the Gap Conference, Microsoft Copilot, Appstream, The Growth Lab, Otter AI, Firefly AI, ChatGPT, MailChimp, Zapier, Make
Sun, December 10, 2023
186 A Parable about Winning and Learning (feat. Greg & Jessica Daley)
Episode 186 FACULTY: Greg & Jessica Daley CLASS: The Guide TITLE: A Parable about Winning and Learning Join us for a conversation with Greg and Jess Daley, the founders of Parable. The discussion delves into their unique journey as a couple in business, the origins of their firm, swing dancing, the integration of work and personal life, and the guiding principles shaping their company's future. Introduction Couple Business Pairs How Swing Dancing Brought Them Together Roles in the Firm Parable Early North Star Roles and Coaches in the Early Days Work Life Integration EOS and Dance Rock Step Training an Integrator Times of Chaos and Peace, The Frying Pan and Crockpot Hard Numbers The Future and Giving Running a firm without Ego Italy Expensify Conclusion Shout Outs: Traction by Gino Wickman, Profit First by Mike Michalowicz, Simple Numbers by Randy Crabtree, Expensify
Sun, December 03, 2023
185 Go Full Send and Build Epic Sh!t (feat. Roman Villard, CPA)
Episode 185 FACULTY: Roman Villard CLASS: #Shoperations TITLE: Go Full Send and Build Epic Sh!t In this podcast episode, Scott interviews Roman Villard, the founder of Full Send Finance. Roman shares his entrepreneurial journey, discussing the backstory behind his firm, its community-building aspect, and the values that drive its growth. The conversation delves into Roman's departure from his previous job, the origins of the Full Send brand, and his vision for the future of the company. Introduction The Backstory The Firm Why Public Accounting? Long Hair Building a Community Origin of Full Send Brand How Roman Left His Old Job The First Client Hard Numbers Partnership and Community Impact vs Greed Growth Numbers Tech Stack The Future of Full Send Shout Outs: Matthew, Kenji, Acuity, Drink While You Think, Warren Buffet, Karbon, Financial Sense, Xero, Quickbooks, Gusto
Sun, November 26, 2023
184 How to Say No (feat. Enrico Palmerino, Elizabeth Manso, Michael Hso, and Marianne Fischer)
Episode 184 FACULTY: Enrico Palmerino, Elizabeth Manso, Michael Hso, and Marianne Fischer CLASS: #TheGuide TITLE: How to Say No In this podcast episode, Scott interviews a diverse group of accounting professionals: Enrico Palmerino, Elizabeth Manso, Michael Hso, and Marianne Fischer. The discussion revolves around their individual visions, experiences, and insights as business leaders. They share their journeys, the importance of helping others, and most importantly, how to say no. Introducing, Elizabeth, Enrico, Michael Vision Enrique's Vision Michael's North Star Introducing Marianne the Speaker Regretting saying Yes Enrico on Regret Michael's Road to 9 Figures Selfishly Help Others Finding a Partner How To Say No Shout Outs: Josh Jeffries, Vivid Vision by Cameron Herrold
Sun, November 19, 2023
183 What is Reasonable Compensation? (feat. Paul Hamann)
Episode 183 FACULTY: Paul Hamann CLASS: #TechTime TITLE: What is Reasonable Compensation? In this podcast episode, Scott interviews Paul Hamann of RCR Reports. The episode dives into the complex topic of reasonable compensation and the challenges surrounding it, presents his innovative solution, and highlights the multiple use cases for RC Reports. What is Reasonable Compensation? Is 2/3 Reasonable? The Compensation Issue Paul's Solution Reasons to use RC Reports More Use Cases for RC Reports Why It May Be Better to not be a CEO More Use Cases
Sun, November 12, 2023
182 AI is a Calculator for Words (feat. Davis Bell)
Episode 182 GUEST FACULTY: Davis Bell CLASS: #TechTime TITLE: A.I. is a Calculator for Words In this podcast episode, Scott interviews Davis Bell, the CEO of Canopy. The episode explores the fascinating world of Artificial Intelligence (AI) and its applications, ranging from accounting to creative endeavors. It discusses the potential benefits and challenges associated with the integration of AI into our lives. Introduction Intro to A.I. The Calculator for the Other Side of Your Brain Where's Our Robot Dogs? A.I. in Accounting What Problems A.I. Might Solve Using A.I. to Write Raps Drawbacks and Growing Pains Conclusion
Sun, November 05, 2023
181 D.A.R.E. Psychedelic AH After School Special (feat. Evan Eneman and Amber Setter, CPA)
Episode 181 FACULTY: Evan Eneman and Amber Setter CLASS: #AccountingHighGuide TITLE: AH D.A.R.E. Psychadelic After School Special In this special D.A.R.E.-themed podcast episode, Scott interviews Evan Eneman, Founder of Sands Lane Capital, and Amber Setter, CEO of Conscious Public Accountants. The episode begins with a candid discussion between Scott and Amber Setter on the topic of the growing interest in the therapeutic potential of psychedelics and healing in the accounting industry. Then Scott and Evan Eneman, Founder of Sands Lane Capital and Fiorello, talk about Snoop Dog and engaging, drug education, the lifestyle niche, the legal landscape of substances and how to open conversations at work around psychedelics. Scott and Amber on Drugs Psychedelics Getting FDA approval Finding What's Best for You as an Individual People in Need of Healing in the Accounting Industry What is a drug? Introducing Evan Working with Snoop Dog Talking about Drugs Reasons that People Use Substances Importance of Education The Business of Drugs The Lifestyle Niche and How it Connects to Drugs The Legal Landscape It's Always Personal, not Just Business How to get educated and start conversations Conclusion Shout Outs: How to Change Your Mind by Michael Pollan, Forbes, Zynga, Marijuana Moment
Sun, October 29, 2023
180 Hiring Leaders that Inspire (feat. Eileen Adao)
Episode 180 FACULTY: Eileen Adao CLASS: #VarsityTips TITLE: Hiring Leaders that Inspire: The ility's of Leadership In this podcast episode, Scott interviews “Coach” Eileen Adao, Vice President of Strategy & Partnerships at Glean AI. The conversation revolves around leadership and the crucial attributes that define effective leaders. The episode delves into practical questions to ask during interviews and how to prepare to be interviewed. Eileen’s story Eileen's list of important qualities for hiring and creating leaders Identifying skills and characteristics that define leaders Practical questions to ask during interviews to assess leadership qualities Tips for preparing to be interviewed Attributes of a good leader are outlined, including passion, self-awareness, and problem-solving skills. The importance of likeability and relatability for effective leadership. The hunger to learn and the role of emotional intelligence in leadership Authenticity and vulnerability The episode concludes with a review of the key points discussed Shout Outs: Xero, Glean AI, Dave Olsen, Asana, Quickbooks, Ed Mendelowitz
Sun, October 22, 2023
179 The Art of Radical Conversations (feat. Jody Padar, CPA)
Episode 179 FACULTY: Jody Padar CLASS: #TheGuide TITLE: The Art of Radical Conversations In this podcast episode, Scott interviews Jody Padar, also known as "The Radical CPA," who currently serves as the VP of Tax Strategy & Evangelism. The episode delves into Jody's journey from high school accounting competitions and Tax Twitter to taking over her father’s firm. Introducing Jody Padar Jody in High School Early Tax Twitter Peer Group Forward Thinking Taking Over Her Father's Firm Changing Pricing Being a Mother and an Entrepreneur How Jody's Dad Helped Her Passion for Accounting The Art of Conversation Will the AICPA Stick around? CPA vs EA Next Things for Jody Shout Outs: Jason Ackerman’s Dad, Nayo Carter-Gray, Jason Blummer, Jason Staats, Ron Baker, Mark Koziel, Tom Hood, Shana Chapman, Michael Hsu, Chris Farmand, Drew Carrick, Anderson Consulting, Engage, Botkeeper, Zappos, Sage, Xero, April, Monday, AICPA
Sun, October 15, 2023
178 Recognizing Patterns of Fear in Accounting (feat. Jackie Meyer, CPA)
Episode 178 FACULTY: Jackie Meyer, CPA CLASS: #TheGuide TITLE: Recognizing Patterns of Fear in Accounting In this podcast episode, Scott interviews Jackie Meyer, CPA, the Founder of TaxPlanIQ.com, TaxPlanningMasterclass.com, and Certified Concierge Accountant mastermind classes. Jackie shares her path to becoming an accountant and her involvement with the Intuit Tax Council. The episode delves into the dynamics of visionaries and integrators, along with the distinctions between being a coach and a counselor. Introducing Jackie How Jackie Became an Accountant Exposure to poor leadership in the accounting field Jackie's journey from starting a CPA practice to selling it The establishment of TaxPlanIQ The ROI Tax Planning Method Jackie's involvement with the Intuit Tax Council and her interest in tech and software The dynamics of visionaries and integrators Distinctions between being a coach and a counselor Jackie's goals for coaching accountants and her experiences with TaxPlanIQ The challenges of training an integrator and the struggle with being a people pleaser Jackie reflects on managing work, life, and creativity, including her role as a parent. Gender Representation Controversies and Writing Books Conclusion Shout Outs: Chuck, Jim Buffington, Stephanie Friswell, Brad Smith, Brene Brown, Tatiana Sawyer, Ed Kless, Ron Baker, Scaling New Heights, ProConnect Tax Online, Intuit Tax Council, Xero
Sun, October 08, 2023
177 Self-Transformational Accounting Leadership (feat. Amber Setter, CPA)
Episode 177 FACULTY: Amber Setter CLASS: #AccountingHighGuide TITLE: Self-Transformational Accounting Leadership In this enlightening episode, Scott sits down with Amber Setter, a transformative figure in the accounting industry, to discuss the intricacies of transformational leadership. Amber, known for her role as the Chief Enlightenment Officer at Conscious Public Accountants, shares her journey from her challenging high school years to her work in coaching high-level leaders in accounting firms and her advocacy for a holistic approach to leadership. The episode delves into a variety of thought-provoking topics like mindset, leadership styles, and burnout. Introducing Amber High School Experiences and the Love of Learning Choosing the Right Career Path Reflecting on Amber's Ideal Audience New World Leadership vs Old Mindset The Importance of Original Ideas and Adult Development theory The Self-Transforming Mind Continued Self Transformation Recruiting and the Job Market Licenses as the Gold Medallion The AICPA Shout Outs: Robert Keegan, Lisa Leahy, Dissolution of the Ego by Ray Dalio, How to Change Your Mind by Michael Pollan, Leadership on the Line by Martin Linsky and Ronald Heifetz
Sun, October 01, 2023
176 Respecting Diversity and Inclusion in Accounting, and Learning about Equity (feat. Richard Roppa-Roberts & Dave Kersting)
Episode 176 FACULTY: Richard Roppa-Roberts and Dave Kersting CLASS: #AccountingHighGuide TITLE: Respecting Diversity and Inclusion in Accounting, and Learning about Equity In this podcast episode, Scott interviews Richard Roppa-Roberts and Dave Kersting from Quasar Cowboy & Roundtable Labs. They discuss various topics, including the dynamics of partnerships and co-firming, the importance of diversity and inclusion, and creating safe spaces for authentic interactions. Introducing Richard and Dave Richard the outside eye The Start of Roundtable How Dave met Richard Roundtable as a Vendor Free Zone Partnerships, Co-Firming, Dating and Marriage Diversity and Inclusion in Roundtable Biases Against The Gay Community Coming Out as a Rapper Roundtable Gives a Place to be Yourself A Discussion on Equity Creating Safe Spaces Summary Shout Outs: Thrival, Xero, Quickbooks, Intuit, Jonathan Bellow, Kenji Kuramoto, Matthew May, Tanya Schulte, Scaling New Heights, Quickbooks Connect, Tax Twitter, Liz Scott, Stacey Killwell, Gusto, Fresh Books, Nayo Carter-Gray, Liz Mason
Sun, September 24, 2023
175 Keep it Simple and Let Your Mind Rewind (feat. Randy Johnston)
Episode 175 FACULTY: Randy Johnston CLASS: #TechTime TITLE: Slow Down and Let Your Mind Rewind In this podcast episode, Scott interviews Randy Johnston, a well-known programmer and Co-Founder of K2 Enterprises. Randy shares insights into the evolution of technology, from twenty pound portable computers to A.I. search engines as well as their impact on the accounting and creative spheres. Randy Johnston, Co-Founder of K2 Enterprises, is introduced His early involvement with accountants and technology The evolution of technology, twenty pound portable computers to A.I. search engines The origin of the name "K2 Enterprises" A.I. and creativity, highlighting its potential applications. Use of A.I. to automate mundane tasks and improve efficiency The power of global collaboration and working together around the world Randy recommends books The interconnectedness of software and its implications for the industry Enabling and hindering factors of cloud software in accounting are discussed. The importance of learning from past mistakes and the impact of technology on outsourced work Randy leaves the listeners with parting advice Shout Outs: Adrian Burgess, Unlocking the Power of Sleep and Dreams by Matthew Walker, The Metaverse: And How It Will Revolutionize Everything by Matthew Ball, What to Eat and When by Michael Croupagne, Xero, Lucert, ProConnect, ProSystemTex, Access Tax, QuickBooks
Sun, September 17, 2023
174 The Accountrepreneur's Dilemma (feat. Trevor McCandless, CPA)
Episode 174 FACULTY: Trevor McCandless, CPA CLASS: #Shoperations TITLE: The Accountrepreneur's Dilemma In this podcast episode, Scott interviews Trevor McCandless, also known as "Coach Sweet Tea," the owner of Fusion CPA. The episode begins with an introduction to Coach McCandless and his background as a serial entrepreneur founding multiple businesses. He shares the story behind the inception of Fusion CPA and discusses the challenges and growth pains the firm experienced. Introducing Coach McCandless Founding Businesses Trevor’s background as a serial entrepreneur and founding of various businesses The Origin of "Fusion" Starting Fusion CPA The challenges and growing pains faced by Fusion CPA NetSuite The role of NetSuite in the firm's evolution and the process of rebranding and niching for NetSuite services Trevor and Scott talk about the challenges of stepping away to allow the firm to grow and thrive Balancing Company and Employee Visions Why is the Firm in Puerto Rico? EO Bobbleheads Words of wisdom from Scott and Trevor Shout Outs: David Leary, Kenji, McKinsey, Accounting Salon, NetSuite, Xero, QuickBooks, Microsoft Dynamics
Sun, September 10, 2023
173 Growing a Profitable Remote CFO Accounting Firm (feat. Jody Grunden, CPA)
Episode 173 FACULTY: Jody Grunden CLASS: #GuidePosts TITLE: Growing a Profitable Remote CFO Accounting Firm (feat. Jody Grunden, CPA) In this podcast episode, Scott interviews Jody Grunden, CPA, co-founder of Summit CPA Group and author of two books, to discuss various topics related to running an accounting practice and building virtual CFO services, dressing "professionally", and niching down. Introduction and an update on recent developments since the last interview. The origin story of Jody’s Hawaiian shirts Scott shares his similar wardrobe story Discussing the evolution of “professional attire” in the accounting profession Exploring the benefits and challenges of running a remote accounting firm The importance of finding a niche and specializing in the industry Creating CFOs from accountants within the firm and the training and development process Utilizing retreats and building a strong company community Addressing the resistance to change in the accounting industry and the need for adaptation Insights into the day-to-day operations and growth goals at Summit CPA Group Scott and Jody discuss the acquisition of cloud firms, venture capital, and private equity Shout Outs: Tommy Bahama, Accounting Salon, Kenji Kuramoto, AICPA, Karbon, Dave Barrett, Matthew May, Acuity
Wed, August 23, 2023
172 The Trusted Cheese of Accounting (feat. Hector Garcia, CPA) | #SocialStudies
Episode 172 Accounting High is supported by our Booster Club Thank you G-ACCON - Check em out, 14 day free trial, go to accon.services FACULTY: Hector Garcia, CPA CLASS: #SocialStudies TITLE: The Trusted Cheese of Accounting In this podcast episode, Scott interviews Hector Garcia, a CPA and QuickBooks Trainer for Quick Bookkeeping & Accounting LLC. They talk about "Best Buy Cheese" and Hector’s journey from working in retail to transitioning into banking and eventually becoming a CPA and YouTuber. Hector introduced An amusing anecdote about "Best Buy Cheese" Hector's career journey is discussed, starting from retail and transitioning into banking. How Hector and his wife started a bookkeeping business The start of Hector's YouTube career How Hector gathers new ideas for YouTube content and uses the platform to attract clients How Hector split up his businesses and handles advisory services The two discuss building a personal brand The episode concludes with the story of how Scott and Hector first met Shout Outs: Jason Staats, Ron Baker, QuickBooks, ADP, Anchor, Ignition, Content Hub
Wed, August 16, 2023
171 The Fearless Unicorn of Accounting Firm Mergers (feat. Amy Walker, CPA)
Episode 171 FACULTY: Amy Walker Accounting High is supported by our Booster Club Thank you LiveFlow ! LiveFlow - Advanced financial reporting on autopilot. LiveFlow turns your spreadsheet into a scalable, real-time FP&A platform, check them out: https://www.liveflow.io/partnerships/accounting-high Get 20% off for 3 months with promo code HIGH In this podcast episode, Scott interviews Amy Walker, Co-Founder, and Director of CAS at Walker and Glantz PLLC. She shares insights into her journey from working at a Big Six Firm to being on the Intuit Advisory Council and also … Buc-ee's. Amy is introduced and we hear a message from her firm partner, Paul Glantz Amy's journey into accounting is explored, highlighting her background as the daughter of a CPA and her experience at a Big Six Firm. The podcast offers a sneak peek into Dan Luthi's Shop Class Origin of the title: Fearless Unicorn in Accounting Amy's involvement on the Intuit Advisory Council is explored The decision to merge her firm and the dynamics of the partnership with Paul Glantz Strategies for getting out of no man's land and managing email communication Firm hard numbers of Amy’s firm Talks about the Accounting High Drill Team Amy shares her experiences of working from home Scott’s Buc-ee's Story The Latest Accounting Rap Shout Outs: Paul Glantz, Gusto, Dan Luthi, Intuit, Xero, Julie Sharp, Jason Blummer, Karbon, Akilah, Logan, Miguel, Wade, Randy, The Unique CPA, Scaling New Heights, Buc-ee's
Wed, August 09, 2023
170 Accelerating Impact by Thinking Differently (feat. Michael King, CFO)
Episode 170 Accounting High is supported by our Booster Club Thank you G-ACCON - Check em out, 14 day free trial, go to accon.services FACULTY: Michael King TITLE: Accelerating Impact by Thinking Differently In this podcast episode, Scott interviews Michael King, the founder of the CFO Accelerator. They discuss why and how firms should add fractional CFO services. Michael addresses common fears about adding CFO services and how to offer perspectives, challenges, and unconventional thinking to clients. Michael's firm specializes in accelerating impact and providing fractional CFO services How Michael addresses specific industry verticals Michael shares the impetus behind starting the CFO Accelerator and how it relates to empowering employees and launching new projects Problems faced by the firm are discussed, leading to the discovery of G-ACCON as a viable solution Discussion of G-ACCON and tech stack advice CFO services and the unique value they bring to businesses Marketing strategies and teamwork considerations The importance of hiring a front-facing CFO Michael's firm industry verticals Common fears about adding CFO services The distinctions between CFOs and bookkeepers are discussed to understand their respective roles Being a Cheerleader, Teacher, Challenger, and the Disagreer for Clients Advice on the stages to stand on for professional growth and social media presence Shout Outs: G-ACCON, Upwork, Karbon, Ignition, Xero, Corvee
Fri, August 04, 2023
169 (PX5) Continuity: Creating a Company Operating System | #Varsity
Episode 169 FACULTY: Dave Olsen CLASS: #VarsityTips TITLE: People Experience Pt 5 (PX5) Continuity: Creating a Company Operating System In the final episode of our People Experience Series on VarsityTips, Scott interviews “Coach” Dave Olsen from Nimbl, focusing on optimizing continuity and company operations to enhance the overall people experience. The episode covers various aspects of building a strong team, including sourcing talent, defining the tech stack, and streamlining meetings for maximum productivity. Introduction Explaining continuity as the catch-all category to enhance people experience Explaining the Company Operating System for smoother operations. Leveraging asynchronicity for increased focus and flexibility. Defining the tech stack as a hierarchy of urgency for efficient workflow. Making meetings more useful by defining their purpose and structure. Emphasizing the importance of clear documentation for better collaboration. Sourcing talent from within the organization to build a strong team. Proactively reaching out to potential hires to expand the talent pool. Developing scalable recruiting systems to manage the hiring process effectively. Defining the recruiting demographic and screening potential candidates. Involving the entire team in the interview process before skills assessment. Summarizing the episode and providing additional resources. How to reach Dave Shout Outs: Slack, Zoom, Front, Karbon, Asana, Confluence, Shane at Nimbl, Radical Candor, what you do is who you are by Ben Horowitz, A World Without Email by Cal Newport
Wed, August 02, 2023
168 Be Our Guest, Find Your Niche (feat. Chris Macksey, CEO)
Episode 168 Accounting High is supported by our Booster Club Thank you G-ACCON - sign up for your 14 day free trial, go to accon.services FACULTY: Chris Macksey TITLE: Be Our Guest, Find Your Niche In this podcast episode, Scott interviews Chris Macksey, CEO of Prix Fixe Accounting, and explores various aspects of running an accounting firm, finding a niche, and how his firm adapted to the challenges of the COVID-19 pandemic. Introduction to Chris Macksey and Prix Fixe Accounting Finding a niche in serving the restaurant industry Chris's journey into the accounting field Transitioning to focus on the restaurant niche and its impact on legacy clients Chris's role as CEO Exploring new business models for running accounting practices The importance of setting the right tone for clients Navigating the challenges of the COVID-19 pandemic and bouncing back Valuable advice from Chris for other accounting professionals Shout Outs: Xero, QuickBooks, Lucy Pavlok, Carolyn Jones, Sarah at Prix Fixe Accounting
Wed, July 26, 2023
167 Accountants in the Seams of Technology (feat. Liz Wilke) | #Economics
Episode 167 FACULTY: Liz Wilke, PhD CLASS: #Economics TITLE: Accountants in the Seams of Technology In this podcast episode, Scott interviews Dr. Liz Wilke, the Principal Economist at Gusto. They discuss a wide range of topics related to the economy, labor market, hiring practices, and the impact of artificial intelligence on the workforce. Liz provides valuable insights into consumer spending metrics and also offers advice for accountants. The episode concludes with a discussion about the advantages of offering 401k's. Introducing Liz Wilke, PhD Data available to Gusto and its significance for accountants and small businesses Discussion of "Economy Explained" A look at the current state of the economy Discussion of the current labor market, its dynamics, and challenges Scott and Dr. Wilke discuss international hiring strategies Liz explains dissecting jobs as a way to adapt to changing economic conditions The impact of Artificial Intelligence on jobs and the workforce Scott and Dr. Wilke delve into various industries' struggle to find qualified employees Changes in tipping practices and their economic implications are explored Metrics on consumer spending are presented Liz offers valuable advice for accountants on what to look out for in the current economic landscape Finally, the advantages of offering 401k's are discussed, emphasizing their significance for businesses and employees alike Shout Outs: Gusto, Zapier, Scaling New Heights, Karbon, Square, Toast
Fri, July 21, 2023
166 (PX4) Competency: Creating Performance | #Varsity
Episode 166 FACULTY: Dave Olsen CLASS: #VarsityTips TITLE: People Experience Pt 4 (PX4) Competency: Creating Performance In this podcast episode, Scott interviews “Coach” Dave Olsen from Nimbl for the fourth episode of the People Experience VarsityTips series. The episode covers strategies for reviewing employee performance, effective employee training methods, and approaches to fair and competitive employee compensation, including variable pay and benefits. Introduction Implementing performance agreements before hiring to align expectations and goals. Regular check-ins to assess employee well-being and provide support as needed. The role of leaders as multipliers in empowering and developing their teams. Discussion of Radical Candor by Kim Scott Strategies for reviewing employee performance, including constructive feedback and goal setting. Effective employee training methods to enhance skills and knowledge. Approaches to fair and competitive employee compensation, including variable pay based on performance. The significance of providing employee benefits to attract and retain top talent. Balancing work and lifestyle considerations to promote a healthy work-life integration. Summarizing the key takeaways for creating an exceptional people experience within organizations. Shout Outs: Kenji, Matthew, Niks, GitLab, Gusto, Acuity, Radical Candor by Kim Scott
Wed, July 19, 2023
165 Arrested Development Accountant (feat. Sabrina Cook, CPA) | #SocialStudies
Episode 165 Accounting High is supported by our Booster Club Thank you LiveFlow ! LiveFlow - Advanced financial reporting on autopilot. LiveFlow turns your spreadsheet into a scalable, real-time FP&A platform, check them out: https://www.liveflow.io/partnerships/accounting-high Get 20% off for 3 months with promo code HIGH FACULTY: Sabrina Cook CLASS: #SocialStudies TITLE: Arrested Development Accountant (feat. Sabrina Cook, CPA) In this podcast episode, Scott interviews Sabrina Cook aka “Ira Gilligan”, a CPA, Tax Adviser, and Fractional CFO from North Carolina. They delve into Sabrina's journey and discuss her experience working with small businesses, transitioning to a new firm, and her online presence on Tax Twitter and her alter ego. Introducing Sabrina Sabrina's high school years. Exploring Sabrina's college education How Sabrina found her way into public accounting and began working with small businesses. Scott and Sabrina discuss their personal journeys with ADHD Tax Twitter and Sabrina's persona as Ira Gilligan. How Sabrina navigated finding her first clients and the expansion into serving remote clients. Developing processes and strategies for growth as the firm expands. Sharing favorite online educators Mindset shifts related to purpose, intention, and the delegation of tasks. The importance of being open and authentic Shout Outs: Ryan Lazanis, Jason Staats, Will Hamilton, SmartPath, Nicole Davis, Lorilyn Wilson
Mon, July 17, 2023
164 Build a Practice that gives you more Money, Time, and Freedom (feat. Reza Hooda, FCA)
Episode 164 Accounting High is supported by our Booster Club Thank you G-ACCON - Check em out, 14 day free trial, go to accon.services FACULTY: Reza Hooda CLASS: #GuidePosts TITLE: Build a Practice that gives you more Money, Time, and Freedom In this episode, Scott interviews Reza Hooda, founder of Capture Accounting and the Profitable Accounting Community. They discuss Reza's book, "The Four Pillars," the journey of writing and publishing it, the parallels between Scott's and Reza's entrepreneurial journeys, the importance of intentionality and prioritizing health and routine, self-development, and much more. Check out Reza's new book "The Four Pillars" Scott introduces Reza aka The RZA Discussion of Reza's book, "The Four Pillars," and the process of writing and publishing it. Discussion of parallels between Scott's and Reza's entrepreneurial journeys and the challenges they have faced. Exploring the journey of bringing Reza's book to the world and reaching a wider audience. A typical day in Reza's life and his routines. Discussion of the importance of intentionality, prioritizing health, and establishing effective routines. Discussion about self-development. Reza shares strategies for motivating and inspiring knowledge workers. Reza talks about failures, difficulties, and roadblocks on his entrepreneurial journey. Discussion on benefits of niche-ing down and how Reza has implemented it in his own businesses The Turkish Barber story Final thoughts and takeaways. Shout Outs: Drive by Dan Pink, Work Sucks by Kylie Resler, Atomic Habits by Simon Sinek, Ron Baker, Mark Wickersham, Patrick Langeoni, Victor Antonio, Tiagio Forte, Xero, Notion
Thu, July 13, 2023
163 (PX3) Coaching: Creating Leaders | #Varsity
Episode 163 FACULTY: Dave Olsen CLASS: #VarsityTips TITLE: People Experience Pt 3 (PX3) Coaching: Creating Leaders As an owner, you get to choose your role in the business and build an organizational structure around that. In this podcast episode, Scott interviews “Coach” Dave Olsen from Nimbl for the third episode of the People Experience #VarsityTips series. They delve into the concept of coaching as a part of RAP (Running an Accounting Practice) versus MAP (Managing an Accounting Practice). Introduction Exploring the challenges faced during the transition from growth to scaling. Differentiating between MAP and RAP Understanding the corporate model and its implications for the organization's culture. How to initiate the process of building a new model that prioritizes people experience. The significance of accountability charts in clarifying roles and responsibilities within the organization. The role of a coach in supporting the team and facilitating their growth and development. Giving individualized attention to team members and understanding their unique needs and aspirations. Managing the individual careers of team members to ensure their professional growth and satisfaction. How to measure success and find fulfillment in both professional and personal aspects of life. Shout Outs: Nimbl, Accounting Salon, How Will You Measure Your Life Clayton Christianson, The E-Myth by Michael Gerber
Tue, July 11, 2023
162 How to Run an Accounting Practice (How to RAAP) Pt 1: Introducing the AH Textbook (feat. Terrell Turner, CPA)
Episode 162 Accounting High is supported by our Booster Club Thank you LiveFlow ! LiveFlow - Advanced financial reporting on autopilot. LiveFlow turns your spreadsheet into a scalable, real-time FP&A platform, check them out: https://www.liveflow.io/partnerships/accounting-high Get 20% off for 3 months with promo code HIGH FACULTY: Terrell Turner CLASS: #How2RAP TITLE: How to Run an Accounting Practice (RAP) Pt 1: Introducing the Book In this podcast episode, Scott interviews Terrell Turner, the Accounting High Librarian, for the first episode of "How to RAP." The episode explores the parallels between rap music and the accounting profession, discussing the need for accountants in the face of new technology and the importance of adopting a client-centric approach. An introduction to the book and its relevance to the accounting profession. The reveal of the book's title, which sets the stage for the discussion. Drawing parallels between rap music and the accounting profession, highlighting the importance of storytelling and creativity. Exploring the evolving role of accountants in the face of technological advancements and automation. Bridging the gap between traditional management accounting and the new era of advisory services. Strategies for helping clients and providing value-added advisory services. The concept of looking at things differently to break free from the traditional "hamster wheel" of accounting, including the implementation of the Profit First model. Reflecting on the initial proposal of value pricing and its impact on the accounting industry. Terrell's personal experiences living in Germany and the birth of Cartoon Network, highlighting the effects of changing technology on various industries. Examining the influence of TurboTax and other factors that have disrupted traditional accounting practices. Exploring the connection between rap and accounting, emphasizing the importance of accountants who can speak to and resonate with their clients. Learning from other "rappers" in the industry, drawing inspiration from their approaches and experiences. Shout Outs: Mike Michalowicz, Geni Whitehouse, Acuity
Fri, July 07, 2023
161 (PX2) Culture: Creating Core Virtues | #Varsity
Episode 161 FACULTY: Dave Olsen CLASS: #VarsityTips TITLE: People Experience Pt 2 (PX2) Culture: Creating Core Virtues In this podcast episode, Scott interviews Dave Olsen from Nimble for the second episode of the People Experience Varsity Tips series. This episode provides valuable insights into the importance of company culture, how it can be intentionally shaped, and the role of values, communication, and leadership in creating a positive and impactful work environment. The understanding that every company has a culture, whether intentional or not. Exploring the factors that influence company culture and how it manifests within an organization. The question of where company culture starts and the role of leadership in shaping it. The significance of defining and aligning mission, vision, and values to create a strong foundation for culture. The process of gaining clarity on company culture and ensuring it is well-defined. Exploring core values that contribute to a thriving company culture, such as integrity, workability, accountability, creating the future, positivity, commitment, and leading with impact. Dave's personal journey in shaping his own values and how they have influenced his company's culture. Differentiating between intentional and accidental cultures and the impact they have on the organization. The importance of effective communication in fostering a positive company culture. Strategies for connecting the team to the company's values and ensuring alignment. The significance of time zone meeting culture in global teams and promoting effective communication. Creating opportunities to consistently communicate and reinforce the company's vision. Shout Outs: Joe Woodard, Brandon Craig, Clay Christensen, Chris Janssen, How Will You Measure Your Life
Wed, July 05, 2023
160 Real Brand Authenticity (feat. Lorilyn Wilson, CPA) | #SocialStudies
Episode 160 Accounting High is supported by our Booster Club Thank you LiveFlow ! LiveFlow - Advanced financial reporting on autopilot. LiveFlow turns your spreadsheet into a scalable, real-time FP&A platform, check them out: https://www.liveflow.io/partnerships/accounting-high Get 20% off for 3 months with promo code HIGH FACULTY: Lorilyn Wilson CLASS: #SocialStudies TITLE: Real Brand Authenticity In this podcast episode, at the CPA Engage Earmark Mobile recording Studio, Scott interviews Lorilyn Wilson, of Mad Woman Media, and discusses the importance of authenticity in branding, navigating criticism and negativity, the role of colors in branding, the concept of Heater Media, drawing inspiration from Taylor Swift, the significance of creativity, embracing pivoting, and the value of personal connection in social media engagement. Lorilyn Wilson, founder of Mad Woman Media, is introduced. The discussion revolves around the significance of authenticity and the blending of personal and professional aspects. Dealing with criticism and haters while staying true to oneself. Exploring the role of colors in branding and creating a memorable identity. Introducing the concept of Heater Media and its impact on marketing strategies. Drawing inspiration from Taylor Swift and her song "Mad Woman" as a source of creative influence. Emphasizing the need for dedicated time to foster creativity. Discussing the process of pivoting and the challenges of the pivot stage in business. Advocating for authenticity in social media posts and not hiding behind a brand. Recognizing that people are at the core of branding, and the importance of social media engagement and avoiding outsourcing pitfalls. Highlighting that the person behind the brand is the true essence of branding. Encouraging individuals to embrace their authentic selves and be genuine in their endeavors. Shout Outs: FreshBooks, Tyra Banks, Kenji Kuramoto, Blake Oliver, David Leary, CPA Engage, Earmark, QuickFee
Mon, July 03, 2023
159 The Cluetrain Manifesto Conversation (feat. David Leary)
Episode 159 Accounting High is supported by our Booster Club Thank you G-ACCON Check em out, 14 day free trial, go to accon.services FACULTY: David Leary CLASS: #GuidePosts TITLE: The Cluetrain Manifesto Accounting Podcast Conversation In this podcast episode, at the CPA Engage Earmark Mobile recording Studio, Scott interviews David Leary of the Cloud Accounting Podcast and delves into the Clue Train Manifesto, the power of decentralized education and communication, and the desire for human connection over corporate entities. Exploring the Clue Train Manifesto and its significance in the digital landscape. Reflecting on the early days of the internet and the emergence of the manifesto. Recognizing the transformative power of the internet in facilitating decentralized education and communication. Discussing how online communities and platforms like YouTube have enabled individuals to bypass traditional corporate channels. Emphasizing the human connection aspect, where people prefer interacting with individuals rather than faceless companies. Highlighting the fear companies have in engaging with the market and the importance of building communities to address concerns. Learning from the failure of Southwest Airlines as an example of the consequences of not adapting to market demands. Stressing the need for accountants to engage in meaningful conversations with their clients. Acknowledging that without embracing change, others will seize the market opportunity. Encouraging individuals to wake up, take action, and not wait for opportunities to come their way. Shout Outs: George Constanza, Blake Oliver, Cluetrain Manifesto, Xero, Intuit, Lean Startup, AICPA Engage, Earmark, QuickFee
Fri, June 30, 2023
158 (PX1) Course Curriculum: Creating a High Performance Virtuous Loop | #Varsity
Episode 158 FACULTY: Dave Olsen CLASS:#VarsityTips TITLE: People Experience Pt 1 (PX1) Course Curriculum: Creating a High Performance Virtuous Loop In this podcast episode, Scott interviews Dave Olsen from Nimble for the first episode of the People Experience Varsity Tips series. This episode offers valuable insights into Dave's business journey, the offshore model, the significance of team and culture, and the key elements that contribute to a successful people experience within an organization. Dave introduces the topics he will cover in the interview. Dave's personal journey in building his business and the lessons he learned along the way. The offshore model and how it can be a game-changer for businesses. Shifting perspective to view workflow as a business and the transformative impact it had on Dave. The realization that building a business can lead to the life one desires. The importance of prioritizing the team over customers and building strong partnerships. The formation of a partnership with a CAS (Client Accounting Services) firm. Statistical insights into Dave's company, Nimble. The purpose of the course and the milestones set to achieve success. The significance of tracking outcomes and measuring progress. Defining leadership and the role it plays in creating a vision for the future. Having faith in oneself and embracing principles from books like "Think Like a Monk" The importance of designing company culture and aligning it with employees. The role of tools and training in supporting employees' growth and success. Defining performance and how it contributes to employee satisfaction and motivation. Employee compensation and the opportunities provided for learning and personal development. A preview of the upcoming episodes in the People Experience series. Shout Outs: Brandon Craig, Clay Christensen, Nimble, Expensify, Jay Shetty
Wed, June 28, 2023
157 Teaching Accounting Soft Skills: From CAS to ASS (feat. John Nevel, CPA)
Episode 157 Accounting High is supported by our Booster Club Thank you G-ACCON Check em out, 14 day free trial go to accon.services CLASS: #PeerReview FACULTY: John Nevel, CPA & Jason Ackerman, CPA SPONSOR: G-ACCON TITLE: Teaching Accounting Soft Skills: From CAS to ASS About this episode: In this episode of Accounting High, Scott and Jason interview John Nevel, co-founder and CEO of Compass East. a Nashville-based accounting firm. John shares his journey to Nashville, how he founded his firm, and the challenges he faced while growing it. He also talks about the importance of bridging the GAAP and the services provided by his firm. John goes into detail about his firm's pricing strategy and how they decide on fees, including tips for raising fees. He shares what he would have done differently if he could go back in time and how he spends time training his employees. The discussion also covers topics such as vetting clients, dealing with different personality types, and managing a virtual workspace. John shares his excitement for the future of his company and offers valuable advice for firm owners. Don't miss this informative episode!
Mon, June 26, 2023
156 Let Your Vision Guide Your Mission on Purpose (feat. Joe Woodard)
Episode 156 FACULTY: Joe Woodard CLASS: #GuidePosts TITLE: Let Your Vision Guide Your Mission on Purpose In this podcast episode, Scott interviews Joe Woodard of Scaling New Heights, CEO of Woodard. The episode covers valuable insights into the accounting industry's evolution, the significance of industry events, the importance of differentiation and branding, and Joe Woodard's experiences and perspectives throughout his career. Joe shares his personal story of how he entered the accounting field. The early days of cloud technology and Joe's experience in starting a consulting practice. Origin stories and development of QuickBooks Connect and Scaling New Heights conferences. Joe's role as a certified professional for Intuit and his contributions to the industry. The purpose and significance of Scaling New Heights as an event for accounting professionals. The dynamics and competition between Xero and Intuit in the accounting software market. Comparing the approaches of AICPA Engage and Scaling New Heights. Reflection on the relevance and necessity of the CPA license in the modern accounting landscape. The importance of differentiation in building a successful accounting practice. Defining and aligning purpose and vision to drive growth and success. The role of personal branding and using one's name as a business identity. Parting wisdom from Joe, emphasizing the importance of not wasting time with non-ideal clients or situations. Shout Outs: Dave Barrett, Expensify, Doug Slater, Scaling New Heights, SleeterCon, QuickBooks Connect, Intuit, Xero, Rod Drury, AccountX, Engage, Simon Sinek, Jack Sergeant
Fri, June 23, 2023
155 High Impact through Comedy, Technology, & Advisory (feat. Geni Whitehouse, CPA)
Episode 155 Accounting High is supported by our Booster Club Thank you LiveFlow ! LiveFlow - Advanced financial reporting on autopilot. LiveFlow turns your spreadsheet into a scalable, real-time FP&A platform, check them out: https://www.liveflow.io/partnerships/accounting-high Get 20% off for 3 months with promo code HIGH FACULTY: Geni Whitehouse CLASS: #CoolKids TITLE: High Impact through Comedy, Technology, & Advisory (feat. Geni Whitehouse, CPA) In this podcast episode, Scott interviews Geni Whitehouse, the founder of The Impactful Advisor. The episode delves into Geni's journey in the accounting profession, her experiences in the industry, and her fusion of comedy and accounting, the importance of finding one's passion and purpose, and niche expertise. Geni shares her early experiences in high school and the challenges she faced. The story of how Scott and Geni first met and connected. Geni's move to California and her introduction to accounting and the cloud. Her college years and her exploration of programming. Working at Deloitte and gaining valuable experience in the industry. Geni's decision to leave Deloitte and pursue a new job in Atlanta. Joining Sage and discovering her comedic talents and how to incorporate them into her work. Exploring the world of accounting comedians and finding inspiration. How comedy opened up a whole new world for Geni and influenced her approach to her niche. Designing her own life by aligning her passion and purpose. The "basset hound" analogy for living one's best life and finding personal fulfillment. Geni's authenticity and leveraging her strengths to make a difference. Scott's journey in embracing his inner "basset hound." The story behind Scott writing the new rap before going to Vegas. A discussion about the new rap and the process of recording a music video in Vegas. Shout Outs: Deloitte, Avalara, Sage, Peachtree, PeopleSoft, Division Software, Jason Staats, Greg Kyte, Ron Baker, Craig Underhill, Joe Woodard, MentorPlus
Wed, June 21, 2023
154 Stop Disrespecting the Accounting Game (feat. James Heyward, CPA)
Episode 154 Accounting High is supported by our Booster Club Thank you G-ACCON Check em out, 14 day free trial, go to accon.services CLASS: #PeerReview FACULTY: James Heyward, CPA & Jason Ackerman, CPA TITLE: Stop Disrespecting the Accounting Game In this episode of Accounting High, hosts Scott and Jason interview James E Heyward CPA, CGMA . James shares his story of how he got into accounting, the advantages of not studying accounting in college, and his journey in starting his own firm. He also gives advice on scalability, hiring employees, adopting the cloud, and transitioning to higher profitability. Additionally, James discusses the importance of diversity in accounting and shares his own podcasts. This episode is packed with insights and valuable advice for both accounting professionals and firm owners. Interview: James shares how he got into accounting and his background Scott raps James talks about his left turn back into accounting, getting his CPA license, and starting his firm Discussion on mixing passion with purpose and the advantages of not studying accounting in college Tips on scalability and hiring employees, including adopting the cloud and using Xero Discussion on the fear and overconfidence of some accountants and the importance of paying them what they're worth Advice for firm owners, including transitioning to higher profitability and promoting diversity in accounting James also talks about his own podcast Shoutouts: Xero , Jetpack
Thu, June 15, 2023
153 Leading with LinkedIn and Loving It (feat. Ashley Leeds) | #SocialStudies
Episode 153 Accounting High is supported by our Booster Club Thank you LiveFlow ! LiveFlow - Advanced financial reporting on autopilot. LiveFlow turns your spreadsheet into a scalable, real-time FP&A platform, check them out: https://www.liveflow.io/partnerships/accounting-high Get 20% off for 3 months with promo code HIGH FACULTY: Ashley Leeds CLASS: #SocialStudies TITLE: Leading with LinkedIn and Loving It In this podcast episode, Scott interviews Ashley Leeds, a LinkedIn coach, who shares valuable insights and tips for leveraging LinkedIn effectively. The episode covers various aspects of LinkedIn, including audience targeting, engagement strategies, real-life networking, and the benefits of using the platform. Ashley recalls his journey to LinkedIn when traditional training options were unavailable. They go over the reasons why LinkedIn is a valuable platform for professionals. They discuss the importance of narrowing down your audience on LinkedIn They talk about strategies for increasing engagement on LinkedIn and building meaningful connections. They discuss the role of in-person meetings and real-life networking in complementing online LinkedIn interactions. They look at the statistics of content creation on LinkedIn. They explore engagement statistics and the impact of active participation on LinkedIn. Ashley shares his insights on personal branding and the use of colors to create a memorable presence on the platform. Ashley gives tips for optimizing your LinkedIn profile Ashley talks about being a LinkedIn trainer Ashley and Scott discuss strategies for scheduling LinkedIn activities, tracking habits, and creating positive dopamine hits. Ashley shares a LinkedIn habit for the audience to start today Shout Outs: Linkedin, Quickbooks
Wed, June 14, 2023
152 How to Run a Practice Differently than the Traditional CPA Firm (feat. Catherine Tindall, CPA)
Episode 152 Accounting High is supported by our Booster Club Thank you LiveFlow ! LiveFlow - Advanced financial reporting on autopilot. LiveFlow turns your spreadsheet into a scalable, real-time FP&A platform, check them out: https://www.liveflow.io/partnerships/accounting-high Get 20% off for 3 months with promo code HIGH FACULTY: Catherine Tindall CLASS: #PeerReview SPONSOR: LiveFlow TITLE: How to Run a Practice Differently than the Traditional CPA Firm In this episode of Accounting High, Scott and Jason Ackerman interview Catherine Tindall, CPA, who shares her insights on the importance of aligned values in a firm, and how her experiences working with her parents and husband have shaped her approach to collaboration and partnership. She also discusses her firm's focus on personality types for hiring and working with clients, and the challenges and benefits of niche-ing in compliance. Tune in to this episode for valuable advice on firm ownership and building connections through social media. Catherine shares her journey to becoming an accountant and the influence of her parents' accounting practice. The hosts and Catherine discuss the importance of personalities in hiring and working with clients. They also talk about the dynamics of partnerships and the benefits of having aligned values. Catherine shares her experience of starting her own firm and provides advice for firm owners. The conversation ends with a discussion on the role of social media in connecting with clients. Scott and Jason wrap up the podcast with Catherine’s advice to firm owner and her socials. Shoutouts: Dominion Enterprise Services
Mon, June 12, 2023
151 Systematize your Firm to Gain Perspective on Purpose (feat. Ryan Lazanis, CPA)
Episode 151 Accounting High is supported by our Booster Club Thank you G-ACCON Check em out, 14 day free trial go to accon.services FACULTY: Ryan Lazanis, CPA CLASS: #GuidePosts TITLE: Systematize your Firm to Gain Perspective on Purpose In this podcast episode, Scott interviews Ryan Lazanis, founder of Future Firm. Scott and Ryan offer valuable insights and strategies for accountants and entrepreneurs looking to find balance, purpose, and success in their professional lives, emphasizing the importance of prioritizing happiness, leveraging time and resources effectively, and embracing progress and innovation to thrive in the accounting industry. Reviewing the ABC Tournament and its impact on productivity and focus. The importance of taking an email detox to reduce distractions and improve mental well-being. Finding a healthy balance between work and home life to prioritize happiness and fulfillment. Identifying the point, purpose, perspective, and prize in one's professional and personal pursuits. Exploring the relationship between time, money, and happiness, and determining the ideal balance. The role of accountability in setting and achieving goals, both personally and professionally. Leveraging higher leverage tasks to maximize productivity and impact. Understanding the two states of an entrepreneur: operating as a solo practitioner or scaling the business. The significance of systematizing your firm to improve efficiency and streamline operations. Repricing strategies and the power of email marketing in attracting and retaining clients. Capacity planning and effectively managing workload to avoid burnout and maintain quality service. Developing a plan of action to transition out of the firm and step into a visionary role. Ryan's personal journey in finding his purpose and being driven by frustration with the accounting profession. Shout Outs: Jason Staats, Blake Oliver, Brandon Poe, Tim Ferris, Enrico Palmerino, Joe Woodard, BotKeeper, Future Firm, Xen Accounting, Thrival
Thu, June 08, 2023
150 How to Make Varsity Part 5: Coach's Game Theory | #Varsity
Episode 150 Accounting High is supported by our Booster Club Thank you G-ACCON Check em out, 14 day free trial go to accon.services FACULTY: Michelle Weinstein “The Pitch Queen” CLASS: #VarsityTips TITLE: How to Make Varsity Part 5: Coach's Game Theory In this final part of How to Make Varsity, Scott welcomes back substitute PE Coach, Michelle Weinstein, aka the Pitch Queen aka Coach Queen, for part 5 where they discuss the importance of management of skill inventory as game theory in sales. They discuss the value of not giving away knowledge for free and distinguishing between providing tips to individuals versus a larger audience. Emphasizing the importance of offering transformation instead of merely sharing information. Scott freestyles a rap on transformation. Michelle discusses homework assignments for clients prior to consultations. Strategies for setting appropriate consultation prices are shared. Michelle's Breakthrough Sessions are explained, The importance of working with clients who demonstrate due diligence Michelle explains why you should send invitations rather than proposals Scott talks about GoProposal as a valuable tool for creating invitations Michelle directs the audience to Abundant Bookkeeping for clients seeking transformation The episode concludes with a summary of the Varsity Tips series. Shout Outs: QuickBooks, Phil Jackson, John Wooten, James Ashford, GoProposal
Wed, June 07, 2023
149 CAS = Solving Problems (feat. Luke Templin)
Episode 149 Accounting High is supported by our Booster Club Members Thank you AppStream ! Powered by the GrowthLab Music Video for Simple Tasks! FACULTY: Luke Templin, CPA CLASS: #PeerReview TITLE: CAS = Solving Problems In this episode of Accounting High, Scott interviews Luke Templin , the founder of A Squared Advisors. Luke shares his journey of how he got into accounting and became a CPA, his experience in the CAS world, and what inspired him to start his own business. He also talks about his unique approach to pricing and scope, and the freedom that comes with working for yourself. Scott even surprises us with his rap, Simple Tasks. This is a great episode for anyone interested in entrepreneurship, accounting, and business growth. Shoutouts: Chad Davis , Ron Baker , Gusto , QuickBooks , GrowthLab , AppStream , FinDaily , Sage Intacct , Zapier
Mon, June 05, 2023
148 Age Marks Milestones: A Book Report on “Strength to Strength” by Arthur C. Brooks (feat. Ron Baker)
Episode 148 Accounting High is supported by our Booster Club Thank you LiveFlow ! LiveFlow - Advanced financial reporting on autopilot. LiveFlow turns your spreadsheet into a scalable, real-time FP&A platform, check them out: https://www.liveflow.io/partnerships/accounting-high Get 20% off for 3 months with promo code HIGH FACULTY: Ron Baker CLASS: #GuidePosts TITLE: Age Marks Milestones: A Book Report on “Strength to Strength” by Arthur C. Brooks in the Principal’s Office with Principal Ron Baker | #GuidePosts In this episode, Scott finds himself in Principal Baker’s office again to review the book "Strength to Strength: Finding Success, Happiness, and Deep Purpose in the Second Half of Life" by Arthur C. Brooks. They deep dive into the key themes and ideas presented in the book, offering insights and perspectives on finding success, happiness, and purpose in the second half of life. Scott and Ron share their initial reactions and thoughts after reading the book. The concept of the striver's curse and the inevitable mental decline that comes with age is explored. They discuss how different fields and innovations experience declines at different rates. The idea of using knowledge to pivot and pursue new paths for personal growth is examined. Scott reads Jasper’s A.I. book review They challenge the notion that having goals is always beneficial for humans. Strategies and approaches to counter the striver's curse are discussed. They delve into the importance of acquiring crystalized knowledge and its application in different fields, including accounting. Ron shares his perspective on writing books later in life compared to when he started. The Sisyphean Curse and the dangers of growth for the sake of growth are discussed. The awareness of death and finding purpose while engaging in business activities is examined. They talk about applying ancient wisdom to everyday life and finding meaning in what we do. Age is seen as mile markers in life and opportunities for growth and reflection. The role of ancient wisdom and spiritual guides in navigating the second half of life is explored. The significance of playing to one's strengths is highlighted. The concept of Liminal Thinking is briefly discussed. They conclude the episode with a discussion and debut of Scott’s newest rap Shout Outs: Rick Rubin, Arthur C. Brooks, Elon Musk, Billy Joel
Fri, June 02, 2023
147 The CPA Crypto Craze (feat. Charles J Kelly, CPA aka CJ the Smart Guy)
Episode 147 Accounting High is supported by our Booster Club Thank you LiveFlow ! LiveFlow - Advanced financial reporting on autopilot. LiveFlow turns your spreadsheet into a scalable, real-time FP&A platform, check them out: https://www.liveflow.io/partnerships/accounting-high Get 20% off for 3 months with promo code HIGH CLASS: #CoolKids FACULTY: Charles J Kelly, CPA The CPA Crypto Craze: Bitcoin is Better Than Gold? In this episode of Accounting High, host Scott interviews Charles J Kelly, CPA , the expert in cryptocurrency. They discuss various topics related to crypto including decentralization, legitimacy, and climate change. Charles shares his insights on why he believes in Bitcoin and how it can contribute to a purpose-driven lifestyle. They also touch on how he runs his business and salsa dancing. The conversation is full of interesting insights for anyone interested in the world of cryptocurrency and the opportunities it presents. Shoutouts: The Starfish and The Spider
Wed, May 31, 2023
146 How to Make Varsity Part 4: Assessing Your Game | #Varsity
Episode 146 CLASS: #VarsityTips FACULTY: Michelle Weinstein “The Pitch Queen” TITLE: How to Make Varsity Part 4: Assessing Your Game In this episode, Scott welcomes back substitute PE Coach, Michelle Weinstein, aka the Pitch Queen aka Coach Queen, for part 4 of their discussion. They delve into the topic of collecting information for sales and how it can be used strategically to understand clients' needs and provide value. Here's a summary of the episode: Michelle introduces the concept of collecting information as a crucial aspect of sales. Scott shares some of his unique and unconventional ideas for gathering information. They discuss the importance of asking strategic questions They engage in a roleplay to demonstrate good questions They discuss the value of asking deeper questions to uncover the clients' underlying motivations and needs The focus shifts from selling to solving problems for clients, showcasing the value of the services and expertise They emphasize the importance of practice and continuous improvement in mastering the art of information collection for sales. The episode concludes with a teaser hinting at the upcoming fifth varsity tip episode Shout Outs: UnCat, Quickbooks
Tue, May 30, 2023
145 Tap into the API with a Powerful Tool: Secure Automated Easy 2-Way Sync (feat. G-ACCON) | #TechLabs
Episode 145 CLASS: #TechLabs FACULTY: Korey Cournoyer Guest Faculty: G-ACCON TITLE: Secure Automated Easy 2-Way Sync Accounting High is supported by our Booster Club Thank you G-ACCON Check em out, 14 day free trial, go to accon.services In this podcast episode, Scott talks with Korey from the Growth Lab and Yelena from G-ACCON for a tech lab. Scott and Korey sit in on a class with AH’s adjunct professor to learn about using G-ACCON taking notes and raising their hands. Yelena introduces us to G-ACCON The class dives into G-ACCON: Quickbooks versus Xero Yelena demonstrates template customizations The group discusses the benefits of templates Yelena explains sharing templates Yelena shows how to append data The group learns about automating with G-ACCON Yelena explains data refreshing Corey asks about usage of G-ACCON with bank feeds Yelena explains time and schedule triggers The group talks about API Scott asks about G-ACCON pricing Scott asks about AWS Corey asks what G-ACCON is used for most? Call to action Shout Outs: GrothLab, Appstream, LiveFlow, Xero, QBO, QuickBooks, Google Sheets, Sage, FreshBooks, Stripe, Shopify
Fri, May 26, 2023
144 Planning Your Exit (feat. Sharrin Fuller, CEO)
Episode 144 FACULTY: Sharrin Fuller CLASS: #CoolKids TITLE: Planning Your Exit In this episode, Scott interviews Sharrin Fuller, CEO of Glass Wallet Ventures and Managing Partner at Blueprint Financial Service and Fit CFO. They delve into various topics related to entrance and exit strategies, as well as Sharrin's experiences in the tech startup and venture-backed startup world. Here's a summary of the episode: Sharrin discusses her decision to exit the industry and her journey into tech startups and venture-backed startups. Sharrin explains the factors that influenced her decision to exit and how she determined the right time to leave. Sharrin and Scott explore the importance of evaluating financial numbers and setting exit goals. The conversation touches on the challenges of hiring and the impact of personal choices, such as having children, on career decisions. Sharrin reflects on the opportunity to sell a business and provides advice she wishes she had taken during that process. The emotional aspects and traps involved in selling a business are discussed, along with the ultimate satisfaction of the decision. They talk about what happened when Sharrin realized she wasn't ready for retirement after the sale and her transition into a new firm. The structure of the companies Sharrin is involved in is discussed They touch on the makeup of Sharrin's clientele and the importance of building trust with clients. Sharrin and Scott discuss the importance of separating personal and business aspects. Scott considers the question of whether he should exit and sell his own business. They briefly discuss Scott's most recent raps and their musical tastes. Sharrin offers parting advice for Scott Shout Outs: Fit CFO, Blueprint Financial Services, Simple Office Solutions, Sean Duncan, Niks Mackenzie, Mastermind, Anchor, Glass Wallet
Thu, May 25, 2023
143 Setting Up Communication to Win | #Varsity
Episode 143 CLASS: #VarsityTips FACULTY: Michelle Weinstein “The Pitch Queen” TITLE: How to Make Varsity Part 3: Setting Up Communication to Win In this episode, Scott and Michelle Weinstein continue their discussion on how to make and stay on the Accounting High Varsity team. They discuss the importance of building rapport with clients and creating strong relationships through a number of example cases. Scott and Michelle review the previous tips Michelle explains why you need to set up communication to win Michelle defines “rapport” Michelle explains that clients buy the relationship and don't want to feel like a commodity Michelle goes over keywords to remember for building rapport Scott and Michelle give an example of how to build common ground with a client Scott and Michelle discuss learning styles Michelle tries to figure out Scott's learning style Michelle gives example questions to learn learning styles Michelle stresses the importance of keeping it personal to build rapport and to be unique Scott and Michelle discuss problems in the industry surrounding rapport They wrap up and give a teaser for part 4
Mon, May 22, 2023
142 Who Are You? Cracking Your Code with the CPA Doctor (feat. Dr. Sabine Charles)
Episode 142 CLASS: #GuidePosts FACULTY: Dr. Sabine Charles TITLE: Who Are You? Cracking Your Code with the CPA Doctor In this episode, Scott interviews Dr. Sabine Charles, CEO of Charles Financial Strategies LLC and TAPA Institute, a global audit executive, instructor, author with a background in consulting, a certified hypnotist. Sabine shares her journey from being a language major to becoming a doctor in emotional intelligence and running her own firm. Sabine discusses her work in hypnotherapy, leadership training, meditation, and how to deal with a job that doesn’t resonate with your passion. Sabine Charles talks about beings language major and her PHD in emotional intelligence Sabine talks about starting TAPA Institute Sabine discusses her work as a certified hypnotist Scott and Sabine discuss colors She talks about here Cracking the Code program and how to get unstuck Sabine shares her experiences with meditation Sabine explains the process of her hypnotherapy sessions She talks about her weight loss journey, self-sabotage, travel and climate awareness The episode concludes without Sabine hypnotizing Scott and advice for listeners about outsourcing Shout Outs: Brene Brown, Dave Barrett, Ron Baker, Simon Sinek, Expensify
Fri, May 19, 2023
141 Accounting Soup for the Soul (feat. Cecilia “Cece” Leung, CPA)
Episode 141 CLASS: #CoolKids FACULTY: Cecilia “Cece” Leung, CPA TITLE: Accounting Soup for the Soul In this episode, Scott interviews Cece Leung, author of Dear Accountant and host of the Dear Accountant Podcast. Cece shares her journey from Hong Kong to Canada and back again, how she got into accounting, and her experience with different cultures. They also discuss her book, Dear Accountant, and how she hopes to show people who accountants are and can be. Cece tells her story from Hong Kong to Canada She explains how she is a blend of both cultures Scott and Cece discuss education and creativity Cece explains how she got into accounting Cece recalls her time in corporate Cece talks about going back to Hong Kong They talk about toxic work culture Cece and Scott discuss topics of her book They ask who are accountants, really? Cece talks about showing the industry in a book Scott asks about COVID's impact on Cece and her book They talk about the next generation of accountants Cece talks about her upcoming plans and bringing creativity to the accounting industry
Thu, May 18, 2023
140 The Picky Prospect Game | #Varsity
Episode 140 CLASS: #VarsityTips FACULTY: Michelle Weinstein “The Pitch Queen” TITLE: How to Make Varsity Part 2: The Picky Paradox is Provoking Passion when Playing the Potential Prospect Game In this episode, Scott welcomes back Niks’ substitute PE Coach, Michelle Weinstein, aka the Pitch Queen aka Coach Queen. They discuss various topics related to finding out which clients qualify to be on the varsity team. Throughout the episode, Michelle emphasizes the importance of working with clients who are a good fit for your business goals and expertise and how niching down can help you find those clients. They discuss the criteria for vetting clients and share their own experiences. Michelle and Scott introduce the idea of varsity clients Michelle gives examples of taking on bad clients Michelle goes over the criteria for varsity Scott and Michelle talk about their vetting processes Michelle explains why you should niche down Scott and Michelle discuss “edge cases” and the unlock of niching They also discuss the importance of communication and setting expectations with clients Michelle explains how her tips eliminate bad clients and turn others into premium clients Michelle and Scott summarize and tease the topic of the next Varsity Tips episode
Wed, May 17, 2023
139 Price it High or Say Goodbye: Transforming Tax Season (feat. Jimmy Capparelli, CPA)
Episode 139 CLASS: #PeerReview FACULTY: Jimmy Capparelli, CPA TITLE: Price it High or Say Goodbye: Transforming Tax Season In this episode of Accounting High, Scott and Jason are joined by Jim Capparelli, Co-founder of Hiline. They discuss how Hiline is changing the tax season and what the tax roadmap looks like. They also touch on pricing, verticals, and the automation of simple tasks. Additionally, they delve into the topics of burnout, therapy for business owners, and school mascots. Finally, they wrap up the conversation with some golf talk. Tune in to this insightful and engaging conversation on Accounting High. Interview: Hiline's tax roadmap and how they are changing prices and clients. Verticles in the industry and how Hiline navigates taxable events, state taxes, and additional fees. The profitability of Squad pods and failures in scaling VCFO services. The importance of therapy for business owners and automation of simple tasks. Branding squads and the automation of data from Karbon and other products. How Hiline is managing burnout and what else is happening at the firm. Jim shares advice for accounting firms and discusses his love for golf, school mascots, and introvert/extrovert personalities Shoutouts: Hiline , Peter Wen , Spencer Christeck , Salesforce , PandaDoc , Karbon , Dialpad
Bonus · Tue, May 16, 2023
ABC12 2023 ABC Tournament OKR Rap-Up Recap (feat. Jason Staats, CPA, Uncat's Brandon Bruce, Jared Smith, & Felonius Slinky Paws) | #TechLabs
**recorded live in front of a YouTube audience** CLASS: #TechLabs FACULTY: Byron Patrick, Jason Staats, Brandon Bruce, Jared Smith TITLE: 2023 ABC Tournament Rap-Up Recap In this episode, Scott and Byron host the final battle between Jason Staats and Brandon and Jared from Uncat for the Accountant Bracket Challenge, ABC Tournament, aka March Appness. The contestants discuss their journey to the finals. Scott and Byron recall the making of the tournament and announce the winners of the Hawaii trip and the ABC tournament. Hear about Scott’s exclusive Victory Rap Parody, the leaked Lazanis and Uncat files, while Brandon tells the story of the famous Felonious Slinky Paws picture in this exciting finish to the first-ever ABC March Appness Tournament! Scott Introduces the final contestants Scott and Byron recall how Uncat was the "Undercat" Jared shares his opinions on upcoming Excel features Jason Staats retells his journey to the finals and his interactions with Uncat before the tournament Scott and Byron talk about what the winner gets and how it was decided Jason recalls the nomination phase Jason talks about being a firm owner and content creator Jared lectures about cryptographically secure random numbers Hawaii Trip winner announced Other prize winners announced Winner of the ABC tournament announced Scott performs the Uncat Rap Scott talks about the making of the Uncat Rap Jason talks about the leaked Lezanus and Uncat files Brandon tells the story of the famous Felonious Slinky Paws picture Everyone gives final thoughts Shout Outs: Adam Slack, Ryan Lazanis, Blake, David, Cloud Accounting Podcast, Fin Daily, FreshBooks, Twyla Verhelst, Felonius Slinky Paws
Mon, May 15, 2023
138 Thriving Through Collaboration: The Benefits of Group Play (feat. Jason Blumer, CPA) | #GuidePosts
Episode 138 CLASS: #GuidePosts FACULTY: Jason Blumer, CPA TITLE: Thriving Through Collaboration: The Benefits of Group Play In this podcast episode, Scott interviews Jason Blumer, an entrepreneur and accountant who founded his own firm and co-founded the Thriveal community. Throughout the episode, Jason shares his experiences and insights on entrepreneurship, community building, and overcoming failures. He talks about how he started his own accounting firm and his motivations for growing it, as well as the challenges he faced in building the Thriveal community. Jason tells his story of becoming an accountant and his passion for music Jason recalls the early days in business with his father Jason explains what motivated him to grow his business Jason talks about the founding and early days of Thriveal Scott and Jason discuss failure and bouncing back from it They also talk about getting out of your own way and letting people help you Scott and Jason compare running two companies to growing multiple crops Jason is asked to become Accounting High faculty Shout Outs: Jason Statham, Jason Bateman, Jason Ackerman, Jason Staats, Jason Presley, Jason Lee Sudakis, Julie Ship, Greg Kite, Ron Baker, Verisage, Doug Sleeter, Darren Root, RootWorks, Simon Sinek, Ian Basin, Karbon
Thu, May 11, 2023
137 Sales and Self Beliefs | #Varsity
Episode 137 Faculty: Michelle Weinstein “The Pitch Queen” Class: #VarsityTips In this episode, Scott interviews Michelle Weinstein, aka The Pitch Queen, aka The Abundant Accountant, aka Niks’ substitute teacher, on the truth about sales and beliefs about sales. Michelle shares her story of how she became The Pitch Queen and how to get on the varsity team at your firm by describing the mindset shifts you will need to run the mile. Michelle shares her Three P's She tells how she got into the accounting niche She addresses common objections to raising fees Michelle and Scott discuss the mindset shift needed to price right Michelle tells of her time working at Fitsy Foods and the birth of The Pitch Queen She explains her Abundant Millionaire Mastermind Program Scott realizes the similarities between Michelle and Niks Michelle encourages listeners to check their sales beliefs and break limiting beliefs Michelle and Scott talk about how selling is being a guide Michelle gives steps to being the head coach at your firm. She explains “Be, Do, Have” Scott explains how to correctly fake it till you make it The two talk about how “sales is not about you” Shoutouts: Abundant Millionaire Mastermind Program, Justin from Justin's peanut butter, John Lee Dumas, Shark Tank, Amy Vetter, James Ashford
Tue, May 09, 2023
136 SIMPLE TASKS! (feat. Dan Luthi & Dan Gertrudes) | #TechLabs
Episode 136 Faculty: Dan Luthi & Dan Gertrudes Class: #TechLabs Accounting High is supported by our Booster Club Members Thank you AppStream ! Music Video for Simple Tasks! In this podcast episode, Scott interviews Dan Luthi, Partner at Ignite Spot Accounting Services and Dan Gertrudes, CEO & Co-Founder of GrowthLab. They discuss the benefits of workflow automation and how AppStream can help businesses save time and money. They also talk about the origin of the company's name and the story behind the AppStream rap music video. simple tasks! Gertrudes talks about the idea of selling workflow automations as a subscription Scott and Gertrudes recount using Scott’s firm as a sandbox for AppStream Gertrudes talks about what led to the creation of AppStream Gertrudes tells the origin story of AppStream’s name The story of the AppStream rap and Luthi’s hand in the filming of the music video Luthi explains how his firm managed automation before AppStream The group discusses how humans slow the process due to simple tasks Scott and Luthi recall the AppStream solutions to their firms’ simple task issues Gertrudes explains why they focus on the pain point of onboarding Luthi lists the added benefits of working with AppStream The group discusses where to start automations The Group talk about Chat GPT and why tech and automation won't replace human interaction Luthi talks about the ROI of using AppStream Luthi talks about app fatigue Simple Tasks Rap Music Video Gertrudes explains the AppStream pricing model Shoutouts: Steven Byler, Heather Satterly, Accounting Avengers, Todd Robinson, Zapier, Korey Cournoyer, Johnny Uzola,Karbon, Ignition, Xero, QuickBooks, HubSpot, Dialpad, Google Phone, Slack, Microsoft Teams, Stripe
Fri, May 05, 2023
135 Chief Proactive Advisor (feat. Sean Duncan, CPA)
Episode 135 In this episode of Accounting High, host Scott interviews Sean Duncan, CPA , founder of a successful advisory-only firm. They discuss Sean's journey from a quarter-life crisis to starting his own firm, turning down the FBI, and getting comfortable with value pricing. Sean also shares insights on his hiring process, sticking to core values, and letting go of clients. Interview: Sean discusses his quarter-life crisis and how he ended up in accounting. The interview focuses on Sean's firm and its transition to an advisory-only practice. They also discuss the firm's focus on bookkeeping clients, real estate, and wealth management. Sean emphasizes the importance of core values and sticking to them, as well as the hiring process and getting comfortable with value pricing. They talk about letting go of clients and the challenges of finding the right staff to do the work. Shoutouts: SMD Consulting & Accounting , QuickBooks
Thu, April 27, 2023
134 Smile to Inspire and Reignite your Fire (feat. Alex Miles aka Ms. Smiles) | #SocialStudies
Episode 134 In this episode of Accounting High, host Scott interviews Ms Smiles aka Alex Miles, a social media marketer and former employee of T-Sheets. Alex talks about her journey from high school pranks to her passion for social media marketing, and how she used her skills to connect with others and brighten their days. She also shares insights into the power of community, the importance of being authentic on social media, and the value of in-person meetups. Alex's infectious energy and positive attitude make this episode a must-listen for anyone looking to find their own passion and connect with others in the accounting industry. Interview: Alex shares the story behind her "Smiles" moniker She talks about the power of community building and the role social media plays in it Alex discusses her time at T-Sheets, including her involvement in the ABC Tournament and the T-Sheets raffle She also talks about meeting David Barrett and connecting with the Intuit community Alex shares her philosophy on social media, which includes being authentic and not judging others She also discusses her passion for comedy and making people laugh Finally, Alex talks about the importance of in-person meetups and getting help from and giving help to others Alex wraps us up by discussing the power of community and the importance of being yourself on social media. Shoutouts: FreshBooks, Hubdoc, Xero, MailChimp, QuickBooks, TSheets, Expensify, David Barrett, TurboTax, John Garrett, Misty Megia, Twyla Verhelst, CPA, Laura L. Lynn Ed D, MBA, MS, CFE, EA, Sherrell T. Martin, Slack, Ron Baker, Jason Staats, CPA, Terrell A Turner, CPA, Nikole Mackenzie,
Wed, April 26, 2023
133 Modeling Behavior for Clients and Accounting Firms (feat. Jamie O'Kane, CPA)
Episode 133 In this episode of Accounting High, host Scott interviews Jamie O'Kane, a CPA and Certified Tax Coach. Jamie shares her journey from high school to starting her own firm, discussing her experiences with clients, niche industries, firm hard numbers, scope and pricing, and more. She also shares valuable insights on outsourcing and unlocking time, as well as advice for accountants looking to grow their business and take care of their team. Overall, this episode is a must-listen for anyone interested in the accounting industry and how to build a successful accounting firm. Interview: Early career: high school, tax years, consulting Moving to family office, helping clients, being a Doula Starting a firm, family and employees, no niche yet Cash break-even, trying things out, modeling good practices Firm hard numbers, scope and pricing, speaking events Keeping up with niche industry, using other consultants Accountability and coaches, rebranding, letting clients go Being stuck in the business, difficulty in finding accountants Helping people, taking care of the team Determining clients to keep, software, outsourcing, unlocking time Closing: Advice for biggest unlock Shoutouts: Randy Crabtree , Intuit ’s Tax Advisor Summit, Nicole Glasson, Travis Baird, Ignition , QuickBooks , Karbon , Cognito Forms , Canopy , TaxDome
Tue, April 25, 2023
132 A Solution to the Public Accounting Problem (feat. Chase Birky, CPA)
Episode 132 Accounting High is supported by our Booster Club Thank you LiveFlow ! https://www.liveflow.io/partnerships/accounting-high Get 20% off for 3 months with promo code HIGH In today’s episode of Accounting High, Scott interviews Chase Birky, CPA , about his journey from working at Deloitte to starting his own firm, Dark Horse CPAs. Chase talks about the impetus for pivoting his business, getting away from client work, and focusing on scalability. He shares his inspiration for the structure of his firm, the challenges of specializing and niching, and his big goals for the future. The episode also features a rap by Chase and a discussion on what it means to be a dark horse in the industry. Interview: Chase talks about realizing that audit wasn't the right fit for him and starting up his own firm. He discusses pivoting the firm, staffing, and getting funding for marketing and scalability. Chase talks about becoming CEO and the inspiration for the structure of the firm. He discusses the challenges and goals of Dark Horse and its niche in public accounting. Chase talks about the fear of external factors that could affect niches and the origin of the Dark Horse name. He wraps up with words of wisdom. Closing: The episode concludes with Chase discussing the importance of being a dark horse and black sheep in the industry. Shoutouts: QuickBooks , Xero
Mon, April 24, 2023
131 Business Guide for Accountants (feat. Geraldine Carter)
Season 4 Episode 131 In this episode of Accounting High, Scotty and Ackerman interview Geraldine Carter, a seasoned business consultant who has lived and worked in over 50 countries and now lives in Idaho. They discuss her background and the transformative power of travel, as well as her insights on the common mistakes CPAs make and the importance of value pricing and sales in accounting. Geraldine emphasizes the need for guidance rather than instruction for clients and the benefits of niching by vertical. She also shares her thoughts on spending versus waste and recommends a book. Tune in to learn more! Interview: Geraldine discusses her experiences traveling around the world and how they changed her perspective on life and business. She shares her decision to leave her first company and start her own business as a business strategist. Geraldine highlights three things CPAs are doing wrong, including not using value pricing, not seeing sales as necessary, and telling clients what to do instead of guiding them. She explains how niching by vertical can help CPAs differentiate themselves and attract ideal clients. Geraldine emphasizes the importance of having hard numbers and plans and distinguishing between spending and waste. Shoutouts: Jay Shetty , Climate Ride , Ron Baker
Fri, April 21, 2023
130 Fiercely Independent (feat. Liz Scott)
Episode 130 | Recorded August 29, 2022 Introduction: In this episode of Accounting High, Scott sits downs with Liz Scott , a consultant and entrepreneur who shares her journey of starting her own business and the importance of staying up to date with technology and cybersecurity. Liz talks about her passion for training others with apps and creating courses and the impact of Covid on her work. She also discusses the importance of cybersecurity and offers practical tips on staying safe from cyber threats. If you're interested in entrepreneurship, technology, and cybersecurity, this episode is definitely worth a listen! Interview: Liz discusses her experience starting her own business and pivoting to cloud-based services. She talks about her love for training and creating courses Liz shares firm hard numbers and the goals of her lab, as well as the origins and purpose of the Appy hour camp. The discussion also includes cybersecurity issues such as data leaks, security tips, and the importance of being prepared for a hack. Closing: The episode concludes with Liz offering advice on preparing for cybersecurity threats and emphasizing the need to be smart, not fearful. Shoutouts: Stacy Kildal , Slack , Rob Smith , Microsoft , Zapier , William Murphy , Dawn W. Brolin, CPA, CFE , Andrew Wall, CPA, CMA ,
S4 E56 · Thu, April 20, 2023
Conscious Consumption (feat. Maddy Reeves) | #SocialStudies
Season 4 Episode 56 Today’s guest is Madeline Reeves , Coach, Creative Consultant, and the Founder & CEO of Fearless Foundry, a creative consultancy built for founders who believe their work in this world is to rebuild it for the better. Hosted by Scott Scarano, What is Conscious Consumption? How can we apply it in our lives and how can it affect us? Today’s episode is not for the conservatives, or is it? Our FEARLESS host and guest tackle politics, religion, sexuality, technology & substance addiction, and more uneasy topics that most of us won’t discuss publicly. Why, you ask? Because they aren’t afraid to get personal. It’s a hard time to be a human in America right now I could grow my business so much more if I didn’t have to think about this stuff How can I use that power and privilege to support other people? One of my first responses to all of this Supreme Court stuff was I’m exploring dual citizenship There is no incentive to change until an external factor comes in and makes it difficult for them A woman that isn’t afraid of getting too political, too personal You can live an entirely sheltered life in this country and have an opposite experience than your neighbor because of what you surround yourself with Our phones are making us lose our connection This is an addiction we’ve created as a culture Conscious Consumption: a level of conscious awareness around what are the intakes I’m putting in I like real-life interactions better… I get the privilege because I have a podcast where I get people to come and I get to have a real conversation Conscious consumption of anything in your life makes your life intentional I love working with accountants because you all have the propensity to touch, influence, and advise businesses of all shapes and sizes All the Shoutouts: Madhappy , Xero , QuickBooks , Boris Johnson , Bernie Sanders, Dave Chappell, ALOK , R Kelly, Finding Fearless, Hillary Elman --- Send in a voice message: https://podcasters.spotify.com/pod/show/accountinghigh/message
Wed, April 19, 2023
129 Perfectly Imperfect (feat. Keila Hill-Trawick, CPA)
Episode 129 | Recorded January 30, 2023 Accounting High is supported by our Booster Club Members Thank you AppStream ! Powered by the GrowthLab Music Video for Simple Tasks! In this episode of Accounting High, Scott interviews Keila Hill-Trawick , a CPA who is doing things differently in her own firm called Little Fish Accounting. Keila shares how she got into accounting and the story behind the unique name of her firm. She also discusses her team, niche, priorities, and the apps they use to improve productivity. With a focus on community, Keila shares some great insights on how to stay motivated and continue to grow in the profession. This is an episode you won't want to miss! Interview: Keila talks about her journey into accounting and starting her own firm They discuss the importance of doing things differently and why she chose to focus on smaller clients Keila shares the hard numbers of her firm and her role in it They discuss the importance of having a strong team and niche Keila talks about her priorities, communication tools, and the apps she uses to increase efficiency and capacity They touch on the importance of community and how March Appness can help choose the right tools Keila also talks about the books that inspire her and the importance of embracing failure and taking breaks Closing: The Simple Tasks rap Scott and Keila wrap up the episode Shoutouts: ClickUp , Slack , Karbon , Keeper , Drake , Tallyfor , Zapier , Fathom , QuickBooks , TaxDome , Thriveal , David Barrett , Expensify
S4 E54 · Wed, April 19, 2023
What is Accounting High? (feat. Madeline Reeves) | #BoosterClub
Season 4 Episode 54 Tune in to Accounting High TV, coming soon to a YouTube channel near you https://www.youtube.com/@accountinghigh thank you to Fearless Foundry for our rebrand check em out, they're so dope To answer the question on the title, yes, Accounting High is just a podcast for now (and ), but it's going to be so much more...stay tuned here's the Manifesto that Madeline wrote, it's pretty dope... I feel like she took the words out of my mouth - scotty We are Accounting High. We are a platform that pushes accountants to think differently about practice development. We believe that our industry deserves content education that is actually entertaining. We know that radical transparency is the key to opening up insightful conversations. We ask unscripted questions to engage our industry in exploring new and unexpected ideas. We believe that humor and play are vital ways for us to learn from our peers in the profession. We strive to be a source of guidance that doesn’t pretend we’ve got all the answers. We listen to our audience because we see their experiences as essential to enacting change. We aim to pave the way for practice leaders to envision and achieve their full potential. We know that accountants are ready to reinvent to find financial freedom and fulfillment in their work. We believe it is time to bring the personal into the profession to inspire innovation. We are Accounting High. And we are here to continue to evolve the accounting industry. --- Send in a voice message: https://podcasters.spotify.com/pod/show/accountinghigh/message
Mon, April 17, 2023
128 Chat with a Guided Profession Transformer (GPT) (feat. Ed Kless)
Episode 128 | Recorded March 1, 2023 Introduction: In this episode of Accounting High, host Scott interviews Ed Kless , a meta-consultant and business iconoclast. Together, they explore the art of asking effective questions, the value of strengths and weaknesses, and the importance of breaking the rules. Ed shares his insights on connecting music to superabundance and the accounting business, confronting our freedom, and confronting the challenges of the profession, including the cancerous timesheet. This thought-provoking episode challenges listeners to think differently about their work and the industry as a whole. Interview: what makes a good question? Bringing gifts and identifying strengths and weaknesses Ed shares how he met Ron Baker and how they became friends. The importance of reading and becoming a Guide Ed shares his love for musical theater and raps You Got Trouble. The connection between music, super abundance, and the accounting profession Breaking rules and The Chesterton Fence The negative impact of timesheets on the accounting profession, alternative value-based pricing methods The importance of managing the work, not the people The value of questioning the present and confronting our freedom
Fri, April 14, 2023
127 Ambitiously Crossing the Burnout Bridge (feat. Serena Shoup, CPA)
Episode 127 | Recorded November 18, 2022 In this episode, Scott talks to Serena Shoup, CPA about her journey from college to becoming a CPA and eventually starting her own business. They also discuss motherhood, work-life balance, personal branding, and the importance of being intentional with social media. Tune in to learn more about Serena's story and insights on building a successful career while still prioritizing family and personal growth. Who is Serena? Ambitious side hustles to motherhood Building the business so that there was more family time Business development and helping others Music and creativity The employees What is work? Family burnout, little sacrifices Delegation Wanting to throw in the towel Personal brand issues Rebrand Ego, teams, soft skills Being relatable Self-confidence and age The future, the burnout bridge, social media You are the product Social detox Social media manager Being intentional Wrapping up All the Shoutouts: ADP , Microsoft Dynamics, Upwork
Thu, April 13, 2023
126 Teaching Tax Therapy and Accounting as Art on #TaxTwitter (feat. Mary McDonald, CPA & Amber Gray-Fenner, EA) | #SocialStudies
Episode 126 | Recorded August 1, 2022 In this episode of Accounting High, Scott hosts Amber Gray-Fenner and Mary McDonald to discuss various topics related to accounting and art. Amber shares her childhood and move to New Mexico, her experience in Albuquerque, and her insights on changes in the accounting industry. Mary discusses her origin story, the size of her firm, and how tax and accounting can be like a puzzle. They also talk about accounting as an art, the importance of authenticity, and finding creative outlets. The guests wrap up the discussion by emphasizing the importance of tax therapy and thanking Scott for his time and insights. Interview: Amber's childhood, moving to New Mexico, and experience in Albuquerque Changes in the accounting industry over the last 10 years and why she chose to take on accounting Getting an EA versus a CPA Tax with "nano-business," pricing, and writing and creative outlets Tax therapy and not just focusing on the numbers Dealing with good and bad clients, referring out and making mistakes, and retiring from employees Automation and workflow management, working with paper, and waiting on clients Mary's origin story, the size of her firm, and being a teacher Tax and accounting as a puzzle, accounting as art, and getting connected to artists Tiara squad, kids, and mother vibes Being authentic and salty, sassy, and savory Closing: Wrapping up the discussion on accounting and art Emphasizing the importance of authenticity and finding a creative outlet.
Wed, April 12, 2023
125 Building a Technology Team at Your Accounting Firm (feat. Nick Pasquarosa, CEO)
Episode 125 | Recorded November 8, 2022 Accounting High is supported by our Booster Club Thank you LiveFlow ! https://www.liveflow.io/partnerships/accounting-high Get 20% off for 3 months with promo code HIGH Introduction: In this episode, we talk with Nick Pasquarosa, the CEO and founder of Bookkeeper360, about building a technology team at your accounting firm. Interview: Nick shares about his background and how he started Bookkeeper360. He discusses how he found Xero and integrated it into his business. The conversation touches on the importance of technology and people in building a successful accounting firm. Nick also talks about building a management team and the role of a board of directors. The conversation delves into the difficulties of articulating a vision and bridging the imagination gap. Nick shares his experiences of going remote and being disruptive in the industry. He also talks about his goals and visions for the future, including subscription and value pricing. The interview concludes with Nick sharing about his mindset and work-life balance. Closing: Thank you for listening to this episode. Don't forget to tune in next time for more insightful #PeerReview conversations. As a bonus, Nick shares a story about go-karting drama with Zachary Call.
Tue, April 11, 2023
124 Lightspeed AI (feat. Enrico Palmerino, CEO)
Episode 124 | Recorded July 14, 2022 Enrico Palmerino , CEO of Botkeeper is an automated accounting platform that uses human-assisted machine learning and AI to deliver the fastest, most accurate, and lowest cost bookkeeping available to accounting firms. He is also an investor and advisor to several business venture funds and sits on the Technology Advisory Committee & Board of Corporators at Fidelity Bank. We discuss how regretful situations can blossom into blessings from the ground up. This episode is not short of inspiration and snippets in the life Enrico and how he went from making lighting more efficient and cost-friendly to innovating in the accounting space. 4 - What do you think of Accounting High? 5 - Botkeeper: The cool kids of the Accounting Space 7 - A way to make meetings cool? Have it in the pool! 8 - I’m like my best self and that’s myself I’m putting out there, unapologetically, unfiltered 9 - We can all evolve. We're still us at our core, we're never gonna really change who we 12 - Go out, you know, take risks, make changes, make mistakes, just learn from them, but never regret the life Shoutout to Daniel Pink ’s The Power of Regret 13 - Enrico’s lose-a-car, gain-a-family story 14 - The difference on our hosts’ need for speed Shoutout to Dawn Brolin, CPA, CFE , ThinkLite 15 - ThinkLite: Enrico’s college business turned into a multi-million dollar company 19 - Botkeeper: the back office for accounting firms Shoutout to Byron Patrick, CPA.CITP, CGMA 22 - I was like bored, stiff, and like couldn't sit still. And then was also just feeling like I lost my identity 24 - Think like a lot of entrepreneurs: Your next game is to tackle the problem you had at the prior business 27 - So more businesses demanding accounting, fewer accountants to do it. So I'm like, aha! Light bulb moment 28 - It wasn't to be like we're replacing accountants in the accounting industry. It was that if you make one accountant, do the work of three 35 - It’s way easier to sell advisory to the existing clients you have and upsell them than it is to go and find new clients and convince them Shoutout to James Ashford ’s Untapped 37 - Unknowns are very scary for a lot of us accountants 38 - AI Unchained : Hands-on, sleeves up, get sh*t done conference. This 9/25 - 9/27 in Boston Shoutout to Karbon , <a href="h
Mon, April 10, 2023
123 An Accidental Accountant Playing an Infinite Game (feat. Clayton Oates)
Episode 123 | Recorded July 28, 2022 Join Scott and Clayton Oates in this episode as they discuss how Clayton got his start in accounting, the challenges of starting his own business, and how to transition from the finite game to the infinite game. You'll hear about the benefits of partnerships and the importance of choosing partners who share your values. Along the way, Clayton shares insights from his extensive reading list and offers practical advice for bettering yourself and others. This is a must-listen for anyone who wants to become a better leader and make a positive impact in their community. So what are you waiting for? Hit that play button and let's get started! Clayton’s start in accounting Leaving a big firm Starting a business and being an “intra-preneur” Trapped in the day to day What does freedom mean? The finite and infinite game Life is easier when everyone is a friend The second mountain, life happens for you, not to you Partnerships From the finite to the infinite List of books Ancient wisdom and new generations Infinite players dealing with finite players The big vendors and differences with them Conference addiction and finding purpose How to vet partners for finite or infinite Being stuck in contracts The “Best” Tech and Tax, Vendor or Partner? Who works for who or with who? App raps, giving back, and accidents Meeting Tim Ferris Eminem’s new album… just for Scott Time meets Jeff Bezos Go with the flow and control your reactions Accepting and giving back Project positivity Energizing events Playing off other’s energy Don’t set your goals with things you can’t control Better yourself to better others We mindset versus me mindset Conferences to find Clayton at Stage fright and imposter syndrome Amanda Aguilar Speaking Truth Leading the infinite game Wrapping up and rapping up All the Shoutouts: Simon Sinek , Ron Baker , Brian Irwin, Tim O’Reilly , David Brooks, Liz Mason , <a href="https://www.
Bonus · Sun, April 09, 2023
ABC11 Tournament FINAL FOUR RESULTS SHOW
Recorded on April 11, 2023 ABC TOURNAMENT FINAL FOUR RESULTS SHOW
Fri, April 07, 2023
122 FP&A vs Accounting (feat. Paul Barnhurst aka The FP&A Guy)
Episode 122 | Recorded October 3, 2022 Accounting High is supported by our Booster Club Thank you LiveFlow ! https://www.liveflow.io/partnerships/accounting-high Get 20% off for 3 months with promo code HIGH In this episode of Accounting High, Scott speaks with Paul Barnhurst about his career in finance and FP&A. They discuss the differences between accounting and FP&A, the marketability of financial planning applications, and the influence of cloud technology. Paul shares insights on pricing, company success, and getting followers on LinkedIn. They also talk about branding and competition in the industry. Listen in to hear Paul's perspective on FP&A and his journey as a full-time finance influencer. Paul’s number and the start with numbers Getting started on LinkedIn Starting his business and becoming a full-time Kim Kardashian of FPanda The podcast content and audience Accounting vs FP&A What do FP&A do vs Sales Influence without power? All the applications and who are they selling to? Excel hell and the marketability of these apps Pricing the right tool Why hasn’t Microsoft made a tool? Google? The market and the cloud’s influence Company founder success VC Money Hard numbers for Paul’s business Who helps accounting More about why LinkedIn How did Paul get followers Posting habits What does a work week look like? Branding, name origin Competition? A rap for Paul LinkedIn stats Wrapping up All the Shoutouts: Jirav , Finmark , Clockwork , Anaplan , Salesforce , SheetRocks, Inc. , Oracle , SAP , Xero , QuickBooks , Sage
Thu, April 06, 2023
121 Increase Your Impact Influence and Income (feat. Katie Thomas, CPA) | #SocialStudies
Episode 121 | Recorded February 13, 2023 In today’s episode, Scott talks to Katie Thomas, CPA to discuss the highs and lows of her journey in the accounting world. From getting into accounting to starting businesses, Katie shares her experiences and insights on content creation, team building, and attracting clients. She also gives tips on building confidence as a content creator and shares her personal journey in setting goals, aspirations, and failures. Tune in to this episode to gain valuable advice and inspiration from a successful CPA and content creator. Katie’s start Collage, getting into accounting Unicorns of accounting The breaking point Getting into LinkedIn Content creation, just press post Content of the early content Getting more personal on the socials Starting a business Hard numbers, free time The team, contractors vs employees Dealing with ambitious employees Is it work or for or fun work? How does Scott decide content? Getting clients and attracting talent Being a content creator and building confidence Getting better and just releasing content What phase is Katie in? Goals, Aspirations, and Failures Dark social Choosing a platform Who does Katie follow Books suggestions Being rebellious Wrapping up All the Shoutouts: James Ashford , GoProposal , Ron Baker , David Barrett , Jason Staats, CPA , Anita Koimur , LiveFlow , Alex Hormozi , Grant Cardone , Gary Vaynerchuk , Rick Rubin, Mike Michalowicz
Wed, April 05, 2023
120 Creating a Trust Economy at Your Firm (feat. Jeff Rudner, CPA)
Episode 120 | Recorded January 23, 2023 Accounting High is supported by our Booster Club Members Thank you AppStream ! Powered by the GrowthLab Music Video for Simple Tasks! In this episode of Accounting High, Scott chats with Jeff Rudner , co-founder and COO of Proseer. Jeff shares his journey into cloud accounting, his experience with fractional CFO services, and the birth of Proseer. They talk about consolidating and partnering, and conversion to a C-corp. Other things covered are tech stack, pricing and services, and the importance of team structure. Join in as Jeff shares his insights on tech adoption and the future of accounting, and Scott treats us with a rap to wrap up the conversation. Don't miss out on this informative and entertaining episode! Getting started Getting into cloud accounting Left the startup and getting into fractional CFO services Consolidating, partnering, and the birth of Proseer Origin of the name Proseer Numbers at the merge Types of clients Tech Stack Pricing and service Getting another partner/investor Converting to a C-corp Structure and Firm hard numbers The team Equity Xero and Quickbooks Tech adoption Mac and PC Inputs, outputs, notifications Rap Wrapping up All the Shoutouts: Jason M. Blumer, CPA , QuickBooks , Sage , Ron Baker , Bill , Laurence Bernstein, CPA , Expensify , Ramp , David Barrett , Patrick Osborn , UltraTax, Karbon , AppStream , Dext , Ignition , Dialpad
Tue, April 04, 2023
119 Once Upon a Time: A Tax Automation Story (feat. Will & Ford Baker, CPA)
Episode 119 | Recorded July 18, 2022 In this episode, Scott and Jason sit down with Will Baker and Ford baker, CPA to discuss the world of accounting and software development. The conversation covers a range of topics, from the challenges of tax season to making changes at a firm, including adopting a Me First mindset and cutting down staff. They also delve into the world of accounting automation, exploring the Once software and its unique features. As the conversation progresses, they touch on rebranding a business and the challenges of compatibility issues and outsourcing in the post-pandemic world. They also share insights on how to sell Once and differentiate it from other solutions in the market. Whether you're an accountant or simply interested in software development, this episode provides an inside look into the world of accounting automation and the challenges facing the industry today. Ford & Will Baker Texas A&M Ford’s loss Blaming tax season Seeing improvements Making changes at a firm and getting rid of 1040 clients Me First mindset Other partners and firm size Cutting down staff Once accounting automation Why build the software? We used to have it figured out on paper What makes their software different Changing categories in the software Setting standards for your firm Other differences… Patent police Who’e idea was this? Name change/Rebranding Accounting High rebrand and other rebranding Funko pop and magnets Other solutions with Once The competition Access to data Compatibility issues of competing softwares What went wrong and solutions to these problems Post pandemic issues The outsourcing problem How to sell Once Rapping and Wrapping up Tax Twitter Rap and real music All the Shoutouts: Sage , AICPA ’s Engage, Nick Saban, Once Accounting , Intuit QuickBooks , Microsoft Nav, Xero , UltraTax, Wolters Kluwer, Go S
Mon, April 03, 2023
118 Artist vs. Entrepreneur: A Book Report on The Creative Act by Rick Rubin (feat. Ron Baker)
Episode 118 | Recorded Februrary 21, 2023 Scotty’s back in the Office with our Principal, Ron Baker, and he has a copy of "The Creative Act: A Way of Being" by Rick Rubin. In this book report, they cover a wide range of topics, including creativity in art and accounting, the quest for efficiency, the role of humor in art, and the importance of paying attention to your surroundings. The conversation also touches on the challenges of being an entrepreneur and artist, the subjective nature of value, and the evolution of an artist's work. This engaging and thought-provoking discussion is a must-listen for anyone interested in creativity, art, or entrepreneurship. Tune in to hear more from Scott and Ron on "The Creative Act" and its many insights. Entering the principal’s office… Rick Rubin Comparing Ron to Rick Ron’s first thoughts - Anyone can be creative Spirituality and Art Output in art and accounting and the efficiency quest Jasper Report AI usage Humor and Art are confrontational The quest for efficiency Childlike wonder and awe Repackaging old ideas with new insight Patience versus Efficiency Unique art alienates and divides Purpose being debatable Race and color tweets and being offendable Alienating yourself and following your intuition Paying attention to your surroundings Seeing the signs around you R.A.A.P. Book MAAP Being a conduit for inspiration Everyone does things their own way Entrepreneur and Artist Sharing versus Scarcity A few quotes How the book was written and what makes it special The new rap name and new rap Writing the rap Profitability and Cash Flow Habits to get things done Value is subjective You’ll never make it Evolution of an artist Our own filters and unique voices We like different takes Artist vs Entrepreneurs The suffering artist Superintendents, boards, field trips ABC tournament and the Anti-Conference Book Reports on going Summary of the book How to read a book Writing How to RAAP On the Crux: A challenge about value Wrapping up All the Shoutouts: Greg Kyte, CPA , Rick Rubin, Broken Record,
Bonus · Mon, April 03, 2023
ABC10 Tournament LIVE Final Four Reveal
Recorded LIVE on April 2, 2023 ABC TOURNAMENT ROUND 4 RESULTS SHOW featuring very special guests Guy Pearson of Ignition Randy Crabtree of The Unique CPA David Leary of The Cloud Accounting Podcast join us as we discuss the results of round 4 of the ABC Tournament Round 4 Results (to follow along while listening) BREAKFAST BRACKET RESULTS ROUND 4 RESULTS GUEST DISCUSSION FINAL FOUR MATCHUP PREVIEW
Fri, March 31, 2023
117 Creating Space in Your Unique Lane (feat. Amy Vetter, CPA)
Episode 117 | Recorded January 24, 2023 Accounting High is supported by our Booster Club Members Thank you AppStream powered by the GrowthLab https://www.growthlabfinancial.com/automations-for-accountants?ah Music Video for Simple Tasks! In this episode, Scott gets a one-on-one with Amy Vetter , who shares her insights on various topics related to business and personal growth. The conversation covers everything from the foundations of accounting and setting boundaries, to finding joy and happiness in life and work. Amy also discusses her own journey from one business to another, and her approach to writing books. This engaging and inspiring discussion is essential for anyone looking to grow personally or professionally. The B3-GINNINGS Scott’s parallels Being a speaker and teacher The foundation of audit and saying yes and no The setting of boundaries AV accounting and QuickBooks, Finding, Consulting Moving in another direction Finding yourself and leaving one business for another Think like a monk Joy and Happiness Raps for books Empathy vs Pity Emotional Intelligence in the younger generation Being a business mother From app to app to app Writing books Feeling about pivoting and working with intuit Colors Wrapping up All the Shoutouts: KPMG , Douglas Sleeter , Intuit , Damien Martin , Simply Tax , Jay Shetty , Sage , Xero , Wiley
Thu, March 30, 2023
116 A Totally Creative Colorful Conversation (feat. Kelly Gonsalves) | #SocialStudies
Episode 116 | Recorded July 25, 2022 Accounting High is supported by our Booster Club Thank you LiveFlow ! https://www.liveflow.io/partnerships/accounting-high Get 20% off for 3 months with promo code HIGH Today we have Scott and Kelly Gonsalves on the show. Together, they explore the exciting and evolving world of accounting, delving into how the industry is growing and changing. They also take a closer look at the impact of shifting client bases and the challenges that accounting firms/businesses face in the age of remote work. Throughout the episode, they touch on a variety of engaging topics, from the latest trends in high school music to the role of color in our lives, they even chat about sports! Whether you're an accounting firm owner looking to stay ahead of the curve, a business owner trying to navigate a rapidly-changing landscape, or simply someone interested in the fascinating world of accounting and finance, this episode has something for you Colors Tattoos and soundwaves Who is Kelly and Creativity Childhood and school Growing up and not growing up Old Internet Old phones High school music back in the day versus today Totally the story Growing the community and Twitter Types of clients at the beginning Shifting the client base What does Totally SEO do? Clients and tech-forwardness In-person versus online The other Kelly Gonsalves Twitter and the Socials The generational characteristics and different personas Pink and Blue Sports The different audiences, clients versus colleagues, and imposter syndrome Kelly’s style and Clippy Worries and post-covid, and getting rid of the unnecessary stress Learning to say no Not shifting to new apps for clients Say no to opportunity? Money and what you want and generational differences Rapping and Xerocon parties Xero and Quickbooks changing lives Firm Hard Numbers Leading Ladies Child break Back to leading ladies How they do their thing and AH March Fanny packs Creative outlets and business Stage fright Notifications <
Wed, March 29, 2023
115 HAVE FUN and Some Spicy Takes (feat. Garrett Alexander, CPA)
Episode 115 | Recorded September 29, 2022 Accounting High is supported by our Booster Club Thank you LiveFlow ! https://www.liveflow.io/partnerships/accounting-high Get 20% off for 3 months with promo code HIGH In this episode with Scott , we have Garrett Alexander, CPA , talk about his journey in the accounting industry, branding, managing people, and running a firm. They discuss the advantages of starting your own firm and offer advice on how to protect good employees and deal with bad clients. They also delve into topics like finding purpose, having confidence, and learning from failures. Tune in for an entertaining and insightful conversation between two experts in the field. Don't miss out! Growing up The whole story in a nutshell Getting into accounting Working with your significant other Branding and how the firm works What made him leave the precious firm and advantages with a smaller firm Bad apples When to start your own firm Managing people, running a firm Bad clients, bad employees, protecting the good ones Keeping good employees Finding purpose and enjoying work Getting older, staying youthful Collaborative competition Having confidence Ambiverts, Introverts Dealing with bad clients Being empathetic toward the staff The new rap, Saying no Making real decisions Failures Firm Hard Numbers Advice from Scott to Garrett Being on the show, having fun, wrapping up Scott Dips All the Shoutouts: Greg Kyte , Notion
Tue, March 28, 2023
114 A North Star to Guide your OKRs (feat. Anita Koimur)
Episode 114 | Recorded March 15, 2023 Accounting High supported by our Booster Club members Thank you LiveFlow https://www.liveflow.io/partnerships/accounting-high Get 20% off for 3 months with promo code HIGH In this podcast episode, Scott and Terrell interview Anita Koimur, founder of LiveFlow, a software solution for accounting firms. They discuss LiveFlow's unique features, how it bridges the gap between accounting firms and clients, and the feedback from the accounting community. The group talks about marketing, language differences, and other accounting software solutions. They also touch on pricing and effectively communicate costs to clients, with Terrell sharing his experience using LiveFlow. LiveFlow so Dope About Anita How did she get started? The start of LiveFlow The accounting community and their feedback How LiveFlow bridges Shifting marketing targets The influence of accountants over the product Language and Lingo differences and March Madness Is this still early stage for LiveFlow? Merge or Note? Xero vs QuickBooks? Pricing and passing it to the client Talking with the clients and passing the price to the clients Terrell's opinion on giving the cost to the client Terrell is a case study on LiveFlow usage Selling the product to the clients and customers OKR’s and OKR KPI vs OKR North Star Metric Closing statements and advice Terrell’s words of wisdom All the Shoutouts: Revolut, Lasse Kalkar, QuickBooks, Google, Gusto, Xero, ADP
Mon, March 27, 2023
113 Universal Accounting Class (feat. Roger Knecht)
Episode 113 | Recorded October 31, 2022 Thank you to our AH Boosters! Tallyfor - Book to tax in minutes, not hours - check em out at tallyfor.com In this podcast episode, Scott and Jason talk to Roger Knecht PB, PGE, VB , President of Universal Accounting. Our hosts and Roger provide valuable insights into building a successful accounting practice, from branding and coaching to pricing and profitability. Whether you're an accountant looking to grow your business or simply interested in the accounting industry, this episode is definitely worth a listen. So, tune in and hear from Roger, Scott, and Jason on how to Build a Profitable Premiere Accounting Practice. How did Roger get into the space Branding and Logos Becoming the third president of Universal Accounting When do companies need Universal? How to implement the help with coaching versus advisory Athletics analogy Teaching accountants to be coaches Issues people have learning to coach What are accountants scared of? CFO service margins in sole versus firm Different business structures, services, and profitability Bookkeeping versus Accounting Accounting is the language of business Pricing Accounting and CFO Mentor, Advisor, Consultant, and Coach semantics CPAs What does Universal call different roles? CEO model or Partnerships? Different business structures A success story Doing the work the right way The accountant’s accountant: The business coach Single line items and bad bookkeeping Advertising lines Being the CEO and President of a family business “I fired my wife” It’s not personal, it’s business Back to Universal logos Where to find Roger & wrapping up All the Shoutouts: Universal Accounting , Netflix , Harry Potter, Exxon
Bonus · Mon, March 27, 2023
ABC09 Tournament LIVE Round 3 Results Show
Recorded LIVE on March 26, 2023 featuring very special guests Alison Ball, Blake Oliver, and Terrell Turner join us as we discuss the results of round 3 of the ABC Tournament Round 3 Results (to follow along while listening) ROUND 3 RESULTS Show 4:30 Opening, introduce hosts and their platforms (10min) 4:40 Prize Draw #1 (5min) 4:45 BREAKFAST BRACKET REVEAL (10min) 4:55 Prize Draw #2 (5min) 5:00 ROUND 3 RESULTS (25min) 5:25 Prize Draw #3 (5min) 5:30 TAX BRACKET RESULTS (10min) 5:40 Prize Draw #4 (5min) 5:45 ROUND 4 MATCHUP PREVIEW (15min) Round 3 prizes #1 PRE BREAKFAST BRACKET PREVIEW Tallyfor - Peter Wen (1X) - 159834 Swag Packs (Hat, Chocolate Coffee beans, hacky sacks) - 1 each live show Liscio - Alison Ball 110987 a cool swag pack (backpack, hoodie and socks) #2 PRE ROUND 3 APPLICATION RESULTS Unique CPA - Randy Crabtree - 154321 Ticket to the unique cpa conference ($649 value) RoundTable Labs - Richard Roppa 143789 3mo free membership to RTLabs (new members only) + $50 gift card (1 each live show) #3 PRE ROUND 3 EDUCATION RESULTS Earmark - Blake Oliver - 124567 1 year Earmark subscription (new subscribers only) (1 each live show) Future Firm - Ryan Lazanis - 150000 2 months free to future firm accelerate. (new members only) (1 each live show) #4 PRE ROUND 3 PREDICTIONS FreshBooks - Twyla Verhelst & Alex Miles (2X) - 107632, 159086 FB Waterbottle and a FreshBook (2x each live show) Intuit QBO - Jessica McCracken - 133777 QB Swag Pack (1x each live show)
Thu, March 23, 2023
112 An Omnipresent Global Influence in Accounting (feat. Heather Smith)
Episode 112 | Recorded October 17, 2022 Join Scott for an exciting episode as we sit down with the Queen of the cloud, Heather Smith , as she shares her journey from the birth of her blog to becoming an author. We explore the concept of "glocal" and how Heather's visionary perspective has led her to connect with people from all over the world. Heather also shares her experiences with Xero and the ripple effect that this software has had on other accounting communities. We delve into her travels and experiences at Xerocons. Throughout the episode, we explore the world of accounting and discuss monetization, hard numbers, and strategic partners, while also delving into the power of branding. We explore a range of topics, including the benefits of microlearning, the importance of in-person events, and the value of storytelling. So join us for a fun and informative episode that is sure to leave you feeling inspired and motivated to take your business to the next level. The story of the Queen of the cloud Birth of the Blog and Books “Glocal” The visionary seeing above Rod Drury and Xero The different softwares rippling from Xero Communities from these softwares Traveling and interconnection with people Xerocons, weather, and other things 2020 and Heather’s Response The look Rapping and Creatives The socials and using them to educate and write a book Speaking, social influence, and promoting events Heater’s podcast and how to use one Different platform styles YouTube TikTok In-person events The numbers and relevant conversations to platforms Omnipresence on the socials The Accounting niche So what about AH? Scott’s response, active listening The experience of the audience The guests on the podcast Monetization and hard numbers Strategic partners Bridging apps and accountants Colors Branding Who to get on the podcast Microlearning Getting information from apps Travel stories All the Shoutouts: Xero , Amazon , Apple , dummies , #NiksTips, <a href="
Tue, March 21, 2023
111 CAS is Sexier than Bookkeeping (feat. Dan Luthi, CPA)
Episode 111 | Recorded October 6, 2022 In today’s episode, Scott talks to Dan Luthi , of Ignite Spot Accounting Services. Dan shares his story, from his younger days to how he got into accounting. He talks about how his Mormon faith has influenced his desire to help people. Dan also shares his insights on how to avoid issues in business, building good client relationships, and thriving in the industry. He discusses the firm’s hard numbers, equity, and they also talk about cloud accounting. Dan advises on how to hire and work with CFOs, build a management team, and be cognizant of diversity in the workplace. Another episode that’s sure to bring great value to all firm owners. The intro and the radio from hell Young Dan Building doors When he switched to accounting A little about Dan and his family Being a Mormon and helping people Helping people and accounting Time and hourly contributions Dealing with issues and not pointing the finger Having good clients Scope seep and scope creep Thrival Ignite Spot Firm and Hard numbers Equity at the firm Commitment to the organization App stack Cloud accounting and tax law Bookkeeping, CAAS, tax first, etc. Getting out of tax Leading with Tax and Bookkeeping differences Shifts in the industry CFO services Sales Personnel capacity Forecasting services and tools How to hire CFOs and margins Paying CFOs and working with them Management Team The CEO role Diversity and being cognizant The Good, The Bad, and The Ugly Accounting Podcast All the Shoutouts: Ignite Spot Accounting Services , Ron Baker , Jason Ackerman, CPA, CFP®, CGMA , Jason M. Blumer, CPA , Karbon X , Judah Kosky , Ryan Lazanis, CPA , Xero , Intuit QuickBooks , BILL , <a href
Bonus · Sun, March 19, 2023
ABC08 Tournament LIVE Results Rounds 1 & 2 Sunday Special Show
Recorded March 19, 2023 Accounting High presents the Accountant Bracket Challenge where 72 different platforms in the accounting profession compete for the title of ABC Champion tune in to see which platforms made it into the tournament whose gonna win it all??? enroll now and vote at abc.accountinghigh.com LIVE SHOW RAFFLE DRAWINGS #1 PRE ROUND 1 RESULTS Bookkeeping Side Hustle - KJJ - TICKET # 126543 I can give away my T-account mousepad. Workflow Wateringhole - Kellie Parks - TICKET #134567 a template of their choice https://cloudaccountingtemplates.com/templates-by-category #2 POST ROUND 1 RESULTS FreshBooks - Twyla Verhelst & Alex Miles (2X) - TICKET #117891, TICKET #143256 FB Waterbottle and a FreshBook (2x each live show) Once Accounting - Ford & Will Baker - TICKET #121212 We would love to be able to offer some "firm care package" or lunch for busy season. We'd want to cap it at a couple hundred dollars #3 POST ROUND 2 REVIEW Tanya’s Bookkeeper Bootcamp - Tanya Hilts - TICKET #138888 We would like to offer a full year scholarship to our next bootcamp session as a prize. The value is $4050 and this would be for the upcoming April Session starting in a month. Tallyfor - Peter Wen (2X) - TICKET #105678, TICKET #129876 Swag Packs (Hat, Chocolate Coffee beans, hacky sacks) - 2 each live show #4 POST ROUND 2 RESULTS Unique CPA - Randy Crabtree - TICKET #132465 Tickets to the Unique CPA Conference (1 each live show) RoundTable Labs - Richard Roppa - TICKET #144444 3mo free membership to RTLabs + $50 gift card (new members only) (1 each live show) #5 POST ROUND 3 REVIEW Earmark - Blake Oliver - TICKET #127890 1 year Earmark subscription (new subscribers only) (1 each live show) Future Firm - Ryan Lazanis - TICKET #137845 2 months free to future firm accelerate. (new members only) (1 each live show)
Thu, March 16, 2023
110 Using Graf Paper in Staats Class (feat. Logan Graf, CPA)
Episode 110 | Recorded January 25, 2023 Automate your Simple Tasks! AppStream powered by The GrowthLab Simple Tasks! Music Video Scott and Logan Graf, CPA are back to have another laid-back chat talking about everything from accounting to making music videos. As they catch up, they reminisce about how Scott once saved Logan's life. This conversation is about delegation, treating everyone with respect, and the potential for AI and automation in the profession. Scott saved Logan’s life Updates at Accounting High Getting older Race to 10k Firm Hard Numbers How did Scott do it? Outsourcing The unlock: an integrator Tracking personal productivity You need to measure to improve Limiting app usage Spending time with family Giving props to the wives Learning more on Twitter Graf paper in Staats class Complementary duo Loud on Twitter, quiet in real life OKR, OK Rapper Graf Paper & Chat GPT Tech in the olden days Learning tax return Accounting High on Youtube Accountants making content What’s all this for? How to be happy and grow Inspiration Accounting High, public and private ABC March Appness Delegation is Trust Treat everyone like your dad or grandma AI and execution AppStream All the Shoutouts: Xero , QuickBooks , Ron Baker , Chad Davis , Karbon , Jasper , Blake Oliver, CPA , Jason Staats, CPA , Expensify , Relay , FreshBooks , LiveFlow , Byron Patrick, CPA.CITP I CGMA , Botkeeper , Nikole Mackenzie , Daniel Gertrudes , <a href="https://www.lin
Bonus · Tue, March 14, 2023
ABC07 Tournament LIVE Selection Sunday Special
Recorded LIVE March 12, 2023 follow along with the full brackets here After receiving thousands of nominations for the Accountant Bracket Challenge "ABC March Appness" aka ABC Tournament, we compiled all the results and split everyone up into 2 major categories, Accountant Applications and Accountant Education. From there, we continued to categorize the top nominated platforms into 4 Regions, 8 Brackets with 8 teams all competing for best in class in their respective brackets to advance to the Sweet Sixteen, plus a bonus 8 team Tax Bracket Here's a list of all the categories, regions, and brackets!! Accounting Applications Business Money Plooto, Expensify, Bill, Divvy, Gusto, Dext, Rippling, Relay Business Bridge Liveflow, Slack, Tallyfor, Once Accounting, Appstream, Zapier, G-Accon, Reach Reporting Accounting Practice Ignition, Rewind, Liscio, TOA, Karbon, TaxDome, Financial Cents, Practice Protect Accounting Books Keeper, Saasant, Intuit QuickBooks, FreshBooks, RightTool, Uncat, Xero, Excel BONUS Tax Bracket Avalara, Intuit TurboTax, UltraTax, CCH, Intuit Proconnect, Drake, SafeSend, SmartVault Accounting Education Learning School Earmark, CPA Academy, Rock the Books, Taking Your Firm Virtual, The Grove, Bookkeeper Launch, Tanya's Bookkeeper Bootcamp, AICPA Town Halls Learning Community FutureFirm, Bookkeeping Buds, Roundtable Labs, Workflow Wateringhole, Accounting Salon, Dark Horse CPAs, Realize, #TaxTwitter Media Podcasts Cloud Accounting Podcast, Drink While You Think, FAAS Evolution, Ambitious Bookkeeper, Accounting High, Oh My Fraud, Unique CPA, AutomationTown Media Influential Roman Villard, Heather Smith, Jason Staats, Ron Baker, Tax TeleGraf, Radical CPA, Bookkeeping Side Hustle, Appy Hour
Mon, March 13, 2023
109 People are the Purpose | #Varsity
Episode 109 | Recorded February 22, 2023 VarsityTips flows with LiveFlow https://www.liveflow.io/partnerships/accounting-high Get 20% off for 3 months with promo code HIGH Simple Tasks! AppStream powered by The GrowthLab https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=Ohc1CMP8G8U&feature=youtu.be&themeRefresh=1 In this episode of the podcast, Scott and Niks take us on a journey of personal and professional growth, exploring the importance of people and interaction, the difference between evolution and change, and the value of having fun while pursuing goals. As they catch up on updates, they discuss growing the student body and YouTube channels, with Niks sharing insights on how to engage their audience. They also delve into the world of high-leverage work and how to identify and leverage individual strengths and weaknesses, while also complementing others to form a cohesive team. As the episode winds down, they wrap up with a rap and further discussion on the topic of people and cats. People are the Purpose Evolution VS Change Having fun and goals Growing the student body and YouTube updates FGTV and LTTV Simple Tasks! People and interaction reaction Scheduling time CFO Accelerator and high-leverage work Productizing high-leverage work Bookkeeping as a commodity Moving to interpreting numbers People reaction 2 Scott’s advice to Niks What do you do with your strengths and weaknesses? And complementing others Reaction 3 All the Shoutouts: David Barrett , Ron Baker , Michael King
Wed, March 08, 2023
108 #TaxTwitter is a Decentralized Water Cooler (feat. Brian Streig, CPA)
Episode 108 | Recorded December 4, 2022 Thank you to FreshBooks for making all of this possible, we love you. In today’s episode, Scott sat down with Brian Streig, CPA for a lively conversation about his backstory and how he got into the accounting space. They talk about the super firms and navigated the peculiarities of Texas laws and discussed the differences between bookkeepers, accountants, and CPAs. They also discussed bleeding-edge tech, focusing on employees over clients, and how to "wow" clients with a great client experience. They also dove into the world of Tax Twitter and the shifting demographics of the industry. Lastly, Brian shared some valuable advice for firm owners and, to cap it all off, Scott even drops a rap so be sure not to miss this one. Brian gets into the accounting mess Brian’s Backstory Condensing the Super Firms Austin during the great recession Bleeding edge tech Texas laws and peculiarities; Bookkeeper VS Accountant VS CPA All tax, all day, everyday Firm hard numbers BDO alliance The insurance niche Structure of the firm Vision and goals Focusing on employees rather than clients Twitter Tax Twitter: The decentralized water cooler Being popular on #TaxTwitter Big egos Being gay in the industry Shifting diversity and demographics in the industry Outsourcing Tax Software FreshBooks and change FreshBooks is so fresh, so easy FreshBooks is for small businesses Complexity in business nowadays Most important aspects of running a firm It’s the people AI Tax Client experience in the firm Wow-ing the client Shoutout to the listeners and advice to firm owners FreshBooks rap All the Shoutouts: The Digital CPA conference, FreshBooks Partner Meetups, PwC , Chase , Indeed , BDO Alliance , Jody Padar , Byron Patrick, CPA.CITP I CGMA , CCH Axcess, UltraTax, Ghost Systems, Trello , Notion , Blake Oliver, CPA , Eakmark , Xero , <a href=
Mon, March 06, 2023
107 Optimum Outsourced People Performance (feat. Nick Sinclair, CEO) | #Varsity
Episode 107 | Recorded May 25, 2022 Thank you to our AH Boosters! Tallyfor - Book to tax in minutes, not hours - check em out at tallyfor.com In this episode, Scott & Nikole chat with Nick Sinclair , the founder of Humanverse Group. Nick talks about his journey, where he's been, and the challenges he's faced. They delve into the nuances of outsourcing and the talent shortage in the industry, sharing their thoughts on training and retention. Nick explains how his firm focuses on making jobs and helping people. They also discuss the importance of a team culture, and how it's shaped by the types of clients and people you work with. Nick shares his insights on the hustle entrepreneurs must put in to succeed and they wrap up with a discussion on what's next for Nick's plans for the future. About Nick Where has Nick been Numbers and US/Canada vs Australia/New Zealand Knowing thousands of employees Accounting: The universal language Not replacing. Making jobs and helping people COVID Protocols Mindset shifts on outsourcing Talent shortage Less shortages in other countries Their employee stats Training and retention Looking at the economics What makes a house a home? Footy and injuries Team culture and processes Balancing two cultures Types of client businesses and people focus 4-hour, 4-day work week Books and podcasts Entrepreneurs must do the work Making the hustle work What’s next for Nick/Accounting U? Account tests Night shift and work-life balance Work from home, government laws, and the effect on the economy Hybrid and getting the in person “hit” Workers outside the Philippines Wrapping up All the Shoutouts: Hubspot , James Ashford , Ryan Holiday ’s Ego is the Enemy, Gary Vaynerchuk
Bonus · Fri, March 03, 2023
ABC06 AI Love You Too
Recorded March 2, 2023 Nominate your TOP 5 Accounting Platforms today! text "ABC" to 33339 or go to abc.accountinghigh.com Greetings Accounting High! Welcome to your weekly installment of AH Times, where every Friday, Scotty and Byron will be bringing you the latest news and updates from Accounting High. First up is our coverage of the ABC March Appness event, enroll today at bracket.accountinghigh.com. We’re going to spend some time in Attention Detention, AH AI Agenda, and AH’s Article of the Week. And as always, sit back, relax, and open your mind, it’s time for Accounting High Times. This week's Agenda ABC March Appness Update Prizes!! Hawaii for 2 or Disney Institute Leadership Excellence Course? AH Weekly Roundup #VarsityParty Vol. 2 | Partners 102 Open Your Mind with the Cerebral CPA (feat. Chet Buchman, CPA) Sociology Major with an Accounting Minor (feat. Andrew Wall, CPA, CMA) AH Ai Agenda The Daily: The Online Search Wars Got Scary. Fast. AH Attention Detention Environment AH Accounting Article of the Week 2022 VSCPA Compensation & Benefits Survey | Virginia Society of Certified Public Accountants https://www.vscpa.com/2022-comp-survey 84 firms, 17 sole practitioners, 133 corp, 48 gov Reflects overall increases in all sectors AH Coming Soon #VarsityTips Vol. 6 | People are the Purpose Conscious Consumption (feat. Maddy Reeves) #ChatTeleGraf | Using Graf Paper in Staats Class (feat. Logan Graf, CPA) Optimum Outsourced People Performance (feat. Nick Sinclaire, CEO) #FreshBooksMeetups Vol. 3 | Friendly Neighborhood #TaxTwitter CPA (feat. Brian Streig, CPA)
Thu, March 02, 2023
106 Sociology Major with an Accounting Minor (feat. Andrew Wall, CPA, CMA)
Episode 106 | Recorded November 30, 2022 Thank you to our Booster Partner, FreshBooks In this episode, Scott talks to Andrew Wall, CPA, CMA who shares his journey of going off on his own to pursue his vision. They discuss Andrew's background, including his experience studying sociology and technical college and his dad's vision for an accounting app. Andrew also talks about the early days of cloud technology and why accounting has been slow to adopt new tech. They also delve into building small communities and how companies should listen to their customers to improve their services. They wrap up the podcast by talking about the importance of connective tissue and how it plays a vital role in building a community. Caught in Canadian customs The art of chaos and Andrews Andrew in High school Sociology in College Technical College Dad’s vision for an Accounting app The app hit a roadblock Going off on his own for the vision Taking over dad’s firm Was accounting in the back of your mind? Back to school New technology Early days of cloud Why is accounting late to the tech game? Sports Being who you are Where is Andrew right now? Scott away from his firm ISO Cerftification Andrew’s numbers Work ethics Andrew’s media presence Vanity numbers and engagement Walking contradiction & Ambiverts & Coonferences Growing community and FreshBooks Companies listening to customers Flooded with apps and building small communities Connective tissue Wrapping up All the Shoutouts: FreshBooks , Accountex , Kellie Parks CPB , Xero , Intuit QuickBooks , Mike McDerment , Hubdoc , Relay , Shopify , Twyla Verhelst, CPA , Sage , Sandy Johns
Tue, February 28, 2023
105 Open Your Mind with the Cerebral CPA (feat. Chet Buchman, CPA)
Episode 105 | Recorded July 11, 2022 Scott Scarano and Jason Ackerman, CPA, CFP®, CGMA spend time with Chet Buchman, CPA, CVA, CEPA, CGMA, CNC , who shares his experiences on maintaining work-life balance while running a successful accounting firm. They discuss forming client relationships, KPIs, and utilizing data for better employee performance. Chet also talks about nontraditional hiring practices, being a role model, and fixing busy season. They wrap up with book recommendations and Chet's advice for other CPA firm owners. Getting into Accounting The firm in the past The Cerebral CPA Changes in the firm for work-life balance and systems theory Forming relationships with clients Timesheets How the changes have been made Tracking data and using it to help employees Chet’s management style KPIs and how people re-utilize extra time Tracking things that aren’t time CBDs (Career Best Days) Chet and Scott’s Atomic Habits The higher and lower performers Family The best thing about the firm Working from home during COVID and hybrid Going paperless or not Data analysts, Tableau New things in the future of the firm Nontraditional hires and hiring practice Accounting in High School Being a role model Helping others and giving time and space Work-life balance, integration, etc Fixing busy season To work or not to work Golf Advice for other CPA firm owners Wrapping up Book recommendations All the Shoutouts: Ron Baker , James Clear , SafeSend , Tableau , Zapier , Patrick Lencioni , Cal Newport, Jay Shetty , Ryan Holiday , Chuck Klosterman, Darren Hardy
Mon, February 27, 2023
104 Party with Partnerships: How to RAAP (Run An Accounting Practice) | #Varsity
Episode 104 | Recorded February 14, 2023 VarsityTips is brought to you by LiveFlow https://www.liveflow.io/partnerships/accounting-high Get 20% off for 3 months with promo code HIGH Simple Tasks! AppStream powered by The GrowthLab https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=Ohc1CMP8G8U&feature=youtu.be&themeRefresh=1 Put your party pants on because it's time for a #VarsityParty with the Queen and Kings of party FOMO. Your favorite Accounting High trio is back and this episode is sure to give you a good laugh. So turn up the volume, fill up your cup and enjoy this #VarsityParty here at Accounting High. We’re talking about Partnerships… buckle up, this is a fun one
Bonus · Fri, February 24, 2023
ABC05 Emotionally Grateful | #AHTimes Vol. 5
Recorded February 23, 2023 Nominate your TOP 5 Accounting Platforms today! text "ABC" to 33339 or go to bracket.accountinghigh.com Greetings Accounting High! Welcome to your weekly installment of AH Times, where every Friday, Scotty and Byron will be bringing you the latest news and updates from Accounting High. First up is our coverage of the ABC March Appness event, enroll today at bracket.accountinghigh.com. We’re going to spend some time in Attention Detention, AH AI Agenda, and AH’s Article of the Week. And as always, sit back, relax, and open your mind, it’s time for Accounting High Times. This week's Agenda ABC March Appness Update Approaching 300 students! AH Weekly Roundup Ideas having S3X in the principal’s office VarsityTips Vol. 5 | Profitability 102 How to RAAP Faculty Update, welcome Korey, Zachary, Dan (and Greg & Ed, they just don’t know it yet) Courses aka “Trilogies” Lorilyn & Coley - Social Studies (applying TikTok & TaxTwitter) Zachary and Kyte - The Angel & Devil on your Shoulders (Ethics) Ackerman & Luthi - Shop Class (CAS & Tax Experts) Liz & Blake - The Gazette, application of history and current events Kenji & Niks - VarsityParty (having fun running a firm in weird ways) Ed Kless & Ron Baker - The AH Guides (book reports and philosophy) Korey & Byron - Tech Labs (product demos and tutorials) Twyla & Keats - ?? TBD AH Ai Agenda Mira Murati, Creator of ChatGPT, Thinks AI Should Be Regulated | Time https://time.com/6252404/mira-murati-chatgpt-openai-interview/ I made my first digital image AH Attention Detention Emotions AH Accounting Article of the Week IRS: Taxpayers Can Now Upload Documents for These 9 Notices - CPA Practice Advisor https://www.cpapracticeadvisor.com/2023/02/21/irs-taxpayers-can-now-upload-documents-for-these-9-notices/76959/ 2
Tue, February 21, 2023
103 Ideas having S3X in the Principal's Office (feat. Ron Baker)
Episode 103 | Recorded December 30, 2022 Thank you to our Booster Partners! AppStream powered by the GrowthLab Automate your firm. Save time. Add value. https://www.growthlabfinancial.com/automations-for-accountants Greetings Accounting High! Scotty’s in the principal’s office, and while he was in there he had an epic 3-hour conversation with Mr. Ron Baker . This conversation was broken up into two episodes for your listening enjoyment. In the 2nd part of our Principal's Office series, After a delightful performance from our rapping custodian to break up the conversation, we go deeper into the mind of Principal Baker. Scott and Ron take us on a journey through a range of topics that challenge the traditional view of education in accounting. They both reflect on how podcasting has transformed their lives and inspire you to find your own voice. They also discuss how rule-breakers are changing the future of the industry. Throughout the episode, they share their insights and lessons learned to help you become better accounting professionals. And as always, sit back, relax, and open your mind, because we’re in the principal's office with Ron Baker. Previously in the Principal’s Office Simple Tasks Giving up firms Licensing and Certifications Rule breakers Accounting High concept and Scott’s pivot High school never ends Podcasting transforms the host Types of podcasting Podcast length Podcast updates Book reports Muppets in Moscow Villians heroes and art Authors, Rappers, and Lil Dicky Earmark and AH Faculty Helping others and Influence of Illegal Enterprises Helping the whole faculty with Earmark Getting others on the show CPE issues and alternatives Ron’s podcast Disney Pixar, “I was wrong”, Changing your mind It’s not all about Money Walking and getting inspiration Publishing Dr. House and music Philosopher by other names and positioning All the Shoutouts: Ron Baker’s Times Up , Russ Roberts, Earmark , David Barrett , FreshBooks , Twyla Verhelst, CPA , Brené Brown , Intuit , The Soul of Enterprise, Mike Michalowi
Mon, February 20, 2023
102 Profitability with Scott & Nikole | #Varsity
Episode 102 | Recorded February 7, 2023 VarsityTips is brought to you by https://www.liveflow.io/ https://www.liveflow.io/partnerships/accounting-high Get 20% off for 3 months with promo code HIGH And another special thank you to our Booster Partner https://www.growthlabfinancial.com/nocode-CPA In this episode, https://www.linkedin.com/in/scottscarano/ and https://www.linkedin.com/in/nikolemackenzie/ explore the concept of profitability in their respective firms, drawing on their own experiences and anecdotes. They delve into various topics, such as outsourcing, hourly billing, and employee percentages, and discuss ways to improve your profitability, such as upselling, fixed pricing, and consulting. Along the way, they share fun stories, including encounters with a shady shirt vendor. They also share practical tips for increasing profitability, including investing in marketing, automation, and niching, as well as the importance of building relationships with other companies and providing excellent customer service. This podcast is a must-listen for anyone looking to improve their firm's bottom line. • What to expect from this episode • Your firm is your firm • Simple Tasks! interrupts • Start of the review • Scott has learned nothing • Working at home and outsourcing • Stats on what people are doing in the office • Revisiting hourly billing • Scott’s outsourcing update • When you aren’t being profitable • The Ps • Niks Profits • Jedi Mindset Shift to abundance • Goals • Makeup of client profitability • The cost of profitability • Percentages for employees • Sharing the owner’s salary • Raising prices and clients • What’s the key to profitability? • Working hard or hardly working? • Ways to increase profitability • Pricing • Rushing into new clients • Making cuts and Price increases • Jasper’s answer to profitability • Upselling • Caring about the customer and fixed pricing • Making big changes for the clients by consulting • Scott’s epiphany to help accountants • Getting and giving referrals • Investing in marketing? • Automation • Offer competitive pricing • Niching • Take on contracting work • Bracket Challenge • Expand relationships with other companies for leads • Animals and Mascots All the Shoutouts: https://www.linkedin.com/in/ashleykcarroll/, https://www.linkedin.com/in/rezahooda/, https://www.linkedin.com/company/the-abundant-accountant/, https://www.linkedin.com/in/michelleweinstein/, https://www.linkedin.com/in/dcb/, https://www.linkedin.com/company/karbonhq/, https://www.linkedin.com/company/heyjasperai/, https://www.linkedin.com/in/ronbaker1/
Bonus · Fri, February 17, 2023
ABC04 Communicating Clearly to Leverage AI Tools | #AHTimes Vol. 4
Accounting High Times Vol. 4 | February 17, 2023 Nominate your TOP 5 Accounting Platforms today! text "ABC" to 33339 or go to bracket.accountinghigh.com Greetings Accounting High! Welcome to your weekly installment of AH Times, Every Friday, Scotty and Byron will be bringing you the latest news and updates from accounting high, as well as a few highlights from our blog The AH Guide. First up is our coverage of the ABC March Appness event, enroll today at bracket.accountinghigh.com. We've also got the latest scoop on the AH weekly roundup, as well as a lesson from Accounting High’s AP AI Class. And as always, sit back, relax, and open your mind, it’s time for Accounting High Times. This week's Agenda ABC March Appness Update 200 different accounting things nominated! AH Weekly Roundup Firm Hard Numbers Guiding Transformations from the Principals Office VarsityTips Vol 4 AH Ai Agenda Importance of clear communication Can scan code for errors, improved efficiency & security vulenrabilities Bing integration is nice AH Attention Detention Energy and Sleep AH Accounting Article of the Week How Can We Make Accounting Cool? - WSJ https://www.wsj.com/articles/how-can-we-make-accounting-cool-11675973909?st=tilzyzg90gk6k9m AH Coming Soon How to RAAP VT5 Profitability 102 Ideas having S3X FBPM PDX Tori McKee & Sarah Prevost Chet Buchman
Thu, February 16, 2023
101 Firm Hard Numbers: The Sons of CPAs Going Deep (feat. Jason Ackerman, CPA)
Episode 101 | Recorded January 9, 2023 Thank you to our AH Boosters! Tallyfor - Book to tax in minutes, not hours - check em out at tallyfor.com Greetings Accounting High! The Sons of CPAs are back! Scott Scarano and Jason Ackerman are here to share their Firm’s hard numbers and go deep, as they discuss their accomplishments and concerns about sustainability and the future of their firms. We also touch on professional passions and purpose, and Scott's interest in turning this rap thing into a legit business and they reveal the show’s Hard Numbers and growth. Of course, this ain’t complete without a little therapy, so be sure to stick around until the end as Ackerman shares his OnlyFans story. As always, sit back, relax, and open your mind, because this is Firm Hard Numbers with the Sons of CPAs at Accounting High. Ackerman’s firm is zagging Getting Ackerman’s dad and Ron on the podcast Growth of the podcast AH faculty Compliments from Ackerman The listeners Time spent last year Getting out of the firm The future of the firm What Scott does at the firm Scott’s concerns with the firm Addressing the concern Last year’s numbers Staffing What clients does the firm take? I'm bored - making a rapping business Living the dream - how to run Scott’s firm Accomplished goals Is it sustainable? Scott’s savings Podcast numbers Passion Pivoting to more hard numbers Ackerman’s last year Ackerman’s hard numbers Old clients and raising prices If you have to ask, you can’t afford it Ron Baker’s subscription model More of Ackerman’s numbers Ackerman’s story about OnlyFans All the Shoutouts: Ron Baker , The Back Room Outsourced Professionals , Netflix , OnlyFans
Tue, February 14, 2023
100 Guiding Transformations from the Principal's Office (feat. Ron Baker)
Episode 100 | Recorded December 30, 2022 Thank you to our Booster Partners! AppStream powered by the GrowthLab Automate your firm. Save time. Add value. https://www.growthlabfinancial.com/automations-for-accountants Greetings Accounting High! Scotty’s in the principal’s office, and while he was in there he had an epic 3-hour conversation with Mr. Ron Baker . This conversation was broken up into two episodes for your listening enjoyment. During our first session, after putting on his Tweed jacket and formally accepting the role of Principal at Accounting High, Scott and Ron discuss the evolution of accounting, fitness goals, accounting communities, infinite games, storytelling, comedy, and the future of the profession. And a delightful performance from our rapping custodian to break up the conversation, we go deeper into the mind of Principal Baker. And as always, sit back, relax, and open your mind, because we’re in the principal's office with Ron Baker. Making changes in the industry After action reviews What is the future of Accounting? Professionals shouldn’t be too busy Amazon and Apple Subscription Model and Customer relationships Scope of service Focus and Niche Finite and infinite games versus Ron Disney stories Rebranding Sons of CPAs and finding faculty for Accounting High Value Billing Pancakes of waffles? Pizza or calzone? Accounting communities Blake’s stories Competition, niche, and generations Leaders and dreams Standing on the shoulder of giants Defending Ron’s ideas Change is coming A big change in Scott’s firm Big leap Time and rapping flow Ron’s dream for a film Podcast and comedy Applications Audience and delivery Writing Greg Kyte's story and parodies Simple Tasks! All the Shoutouts: Ron Baker’s Times Up , Amazon , Simon Sinek , Twyla Verhelst, CPA , Jason Ackerman, CPA, CFP®, CGMA , Edward Mendlowitz , Lorilyn Wilson, CPA , Barry Melancon, CPA, CGMA , Hulu , <a href="https://www.linkedin
Mon, February 13, 2023
099 GPT your SOPs & Real Life Resiliency Running a Firm | #Varsity
Episode 099 | Recorded February 1, 2023 VarsityTips is brought to you by LiveFlow Don't be tardy to the Coach Mackenzie party with Scott and Nikole, where they sit down and discuss a hot topic to get Niks’ hot takes and tips. So lace up your sneaks and stretch out because of VarsityTips is now in session. Hitting the Charts OKR and The Tax Accountant's Anthem Tax Organizers and Typeforms and Tax Returns Asynchronicity ABC March Appness Update, Sponsers, and Raffle Prizes LiveFlow Accounting Salon AH Gazette Hubspot Chat GPT, write an SOP FinDaily Terrell Turner and YouTube Niks' YouTube Idea Spreading Your Wings If Scott had unlimited money… Managing Ambitious Employees More Chat GPT to get out of things Linkedin & GoProposal Podcast Therapy What's Next for Niks' Business Scott's Consulting CEO Value To Show up or to not show up Back to Liveflow Wrapping Up with RZA and Pushin P All the shoutouts: Nicholas Pasquarosa , Adam Markowitz, Logan Graf, Paul Glantz, CPA , Jason Ackerman, Calendly, Shane Sullivan, Twyla Verhelst, CPA , Ignition , Tallyfor, Spencer Christeck, David Barrett, Anita Koimur, Terrell Turner, LiveFlow, Keila Hill-Trawick, Drip, MailChimp, Karbon , ServiceHub, Hiver, Blake Oliver, CPA , Earmark , GoogleSheets, AppStream powered by GrowthLab Finance-as-a-Service , Jason Staats, Luke Templin, FinDaily, Xero, QuickBooks, Ashley Carroll , Expensify, Dan Gertrudes, Byron Patrick, GoProposal, Reza Hooda, Gusto
Bonus · Fri, February 10, 2023
ABC03 Attention Detention: Personal Attention Management Class | #AHTimes Vol. 3
Nominate your TOP 5 Accounting Platforms today! text "ABC" to 33339 or go to bracket.accountinghigh.com Greetings Accounting High! Welcome to your weekly installment of AH Times, Every Friday, Scotty and Byron will be bringing you the latest news and updates from accounting high, as well as a few highlights from our blog The AH Guide. First up is our coverage of the ABC March Appness event, enroll today! We've also got the latest scoop on the AH weekly roundup, as well as a lesson from Accounting High’s AP AI Class. And as always, sit back, relax, and open your mind, it’s time for Accounting High Times. This week's Agenda ABC March Appness Update Over 5200 raffle tickets Ignition & Relay sponsors, we will confirm the prizes soon! CAP still tied with Gusto at 20 nods Strong showing from Plooto & Unique CPA New Rule, you can’t vote for the same thing multiple times AH Weekly Roundup VarsityTips | Storytellers Guide Through a Time Capsule of Travel TaxTwitter “Founder” @StephanieSoong started using it regularly in 2016 TaxTwitter First Usage Ever; Martha @marfarfarquhar Feb 2, 2010 you see what is happening here? Twitter and wine are not helping me do my work #taxtwitter AH AI Agenda Google Bard and New Bing Notes from Mom: ChatGPT is currently free to use. It’s a great tool for gathering ideas and writing almost anything using simple prompts. The prompts are the key. The more specific, the better the output. Jasper uses a different approach. It includes tools like templates, recipes and a chat prompt. This may be better for someone who needs more guidance in formulating content. Personally, I feel like I’m cheating by using these tools. It rehashes what’s already written. On the plus side, it produces content instantly and eliminates writer’s block. AH Attention Detention Access Economy/Information Economy → Attention Economy How are we “spending” our attention? How do we make active attention choices? Personal Attention Management Class: Attention Detention AH Accounting Article of the Week Accountants are among the most sought after workers in 2023 https://www.cpapracticeadvisor.com/2023/02/09/accountants-are-in-the-hiring-plans-of-many-u-s-c
Wed, February 08, 2023
098 Storytellers Guide through a Time Capsule of Travel | #Varsity
Episode 98 | Recorded January 24, 2023 Sponsored by AppStream powered by The GrowthLab Don't be tardy to the Coach Mackenzie party. That's right. You're listening to VarsityTips formerly known as NiksTips with Scott and Nikole, where they sit down and discuss a hot topic to get Nik's hot takes and tips. So lace up your sneaks and stretch out because of VarsityTips is now in session. ABC Appness Storytelling Colonoscopy and Spicy Foods Escapades and being away from the office GPAC, Park City, Denver, Being with friends Business people in Accounting Snowmobiles and sledding and music video Simple. Tasks. Rule. Everything. Around. Me. The CAS Angels Don’t expect me to help Ambivert Scott Accepting help from others and Ops people Partnership in Scott’s business Getting woke up by Niks Ideal partners and packing Improv class GPAC Amenities at Gusto Small businesses The Philippines Back to the Gusto Office Telling stories Grading the trips AppS.T.R.E.A.M. Rap All the shoutouts: Blake Oliver, CPA , Zachary Call, CPA , Ashley Carroll , Gusto , Roman Villard, CPA , Chris Williams , Marissa Jones , Marie Greene, CPA , Earmark , Kenji Kuramoto , Dan Luthi , Jacob Schroeder, CPA , Nicholas Pasquarosa , GrowthLab Finance-as-a-Service , Karbon , Matthew May , Twyla Verhelst, CPA , Greg Kyte, CPA , Paul Glantz, CPA , Christopher Leon , Byron Patrick, CPA.CITP I CGMA , <a href="https://www.linkedin.com/in
Bonus · Fri, February 03, 2023
ABC02 Accountant Bracket Challenge "ABC March Appness" | #AHTimes Vol. 2
Accounting High Times Vol. 2 | recorded on February 2, 2023 Nominate your TOP 5 Accounting Platforms today! text "ABC" to 33339 or go to bracket.accountinghigh.com Greetings Accounting High! Welcome to your weekly installment of AH Times, Every Friday, Scotty and Byron will be bringing you the latest news and updates from accounting high, as well as a few highlights from our blog The AH Guide. First up is our coverage of the ABC March Appness event, enroll today at bracket.accountinghigh.com. We've also got the latest scoop on the AH weekly roundup, as well as a lesson from Accounting High’s AP AI Class. And as always, sit back, relax, and open your mind, it’s time for Accounting High Times. This week's Agenda ABC March Appness Over 100 Students Enrolled Over 125 different Accounting Channels nominated Lots of wonderful testimonials Word Cloud of nominations for those that have submitted their 5 As we get closer to selection Sunday we will post the unofficial rankings Upcoming ABC Sponsors AH Weekly Roundup Byron’s got some news to share Rock the Books like a Rockstar (feat. Sherrell Martin) Stop the Scroll (feat. Reza Hoda) AH Accounting Article of the Week Going concern Friday Footnotes Armanino Announces record Partner Class - 26 New Partners!! Competition for talent is leading to higher salaries AH Ai Agenda A ChatGPT chat AH Coming Soon AH Guide - Blog AH TV - YT “Simple Tasks!” Music Video Episodes On Deck - Ron Baker, FirmHardNumbers, VarsityTips, FBPM Tori & Sarah Recordings - Amy Vetter, Keila Hill-Trawick, ChatTeleGraf, Raps on the way - Tax Acct Anthem, LiveFlow
Thu, February 02, 2023
097 Stop the Scroll (feat. Reza Hooda, FCA)
Episode 97 | Recorded July 4, 2022 Thank you to our AH Boosters! Tallyfor - Book to tax in minutes, not hours check em out at tallyfor.com AppStream powered by the GrowthLab Automate your firm. Save time. Add value. check em out at - https://www.growthlabfinancial.com/automations-for-accountants Go on a journey filled with self-discovery, ambition, and entrepreneurial spirit, Reza Hooda FCA CTA has charted a path that takes us from the halls of high school to the accounting world. Join Scott and Reza as they go from learning French to delving into the world of numbers, taking on new challenges, including starting his own accounting, coaching and mentoring businesses, and working with like-minded individuals. Stop the Scroll Independence day High school College and first job French and other languages Back to the Numbers Mindset shifts Reading books Rapping Starting Accounting Trying to and starting a business And another business Growing the business The numbers Working geniuses Working on Scott’s business The accounting coaching and mentoring business Time, Money, and Freedom The four pillars Marketing and sales Niche-ing LinkedIn and more marketing Storytelling Writing the book Things to stay organized and productivity Getting connected to Reza More on the book and rap coaches All the Shoutouts: Jay Shetty, Mark Wickersham , Patrick Lencioni, James Clear
Mon, January 30, 2023
096 Rock the Books like a Rockstar (feat. Sherrell Martin, CEO)
Episode 96 | Recorded November 3, 2022 The Accountant Bracket Challenge aka ABC March Appness - nominate your top 5 accounting platforms today - text “ABC” to 33339 or enroll at bracket.accountinghigh.com Shoutout to, FreshBooks Greetings Accounting High! FreshBooks recently hit the road to meet up with some amazing people in the accounting industry at 4 awesome locations. At each location, Accounting High's rapping custodian got to sit down and chat a little with some really cool people. First up in Atlanta, Georgia, our host does a live recording with Sherrell T. Martin , Founder & CEO of Nitram Financial Solutions . In this episode, they discuss colors, branding, social media, running a firm, and all the software apps they play with in our space and how some of these appbs have been game-changing factors in the future of accounting. Sherrell also shares how she got into accounting and what drove her to start her own practice. So sit back, relax and open your mind because class is in session… on the road. 2 - Sherrell and Scott at the FreshBooks Partner Meetup in Atlanta 4 - Getting into accounting, the language of business 9 - They say people know all the languages when they're born 12 - Pros of starting out from a small firm 14 - Colors Shoutout to Michael Ly , Madeline Reeves , Fearless Foundry 19 - It wasn't enough and I got tired of working like that Shoutout to David Barrett 23 - 10 lessons in 10 years Shoutout to Xero , Intuit QuickBooks , FreshBooks 28 - What color kool-aid are you drinking? 31 - What app drew you in first? 37 - Introverts & Extroverts Shoutout to Nicole Davis, CPA , Kenji Kuramoto 43 - Apps & more Colors Shoutout to Twyla Verhelst, CPA , Hubdoc , Gusto , LastPass , Teamwork , Airtable 48 - Sherrell’s hard numbers 50 - Rock the Books Online 56 -
Bonus · Fri, January 27, 2023
ABC01 Accounting High Times Weekly News & Updates | #AHTimes Vol. 1
Accounting High Times Vol. 1 | recorded on January 27, 2023 Agenda ABC March Appness Nomination period - March 10th Voting will start March 13th, first 2 rounds Lots of Prizes To Be Announced Text ABC to 33339 https://bracket.accountinghigh.com Jasper’s 5 trends in the accounting profession AI & Automation Outsourcing & Remote Work Data Security & Cloud Computing Digital Transformation & Cybersecurity Social Media Preference ChatGPT’s Top 5 Trends in the accounting profession AI Cloud Computing Regulatory Compliance Cyber Security Remote Work Friday Footnotes brought to you by GoingConcern.com The PCAOB is getting sued https://www.goingconcern.com/friday-footnotes-ey-cant-hire-tech-john-doe-sues-the-pcaob-auditors-cant-find-torpedoes-and-missiles-1-20-03/ AH Episode Roundup 2022 Year-In-Review VarsityTips with Scotty & Niks VarsityParty (feat. Kenji Kuramoto) AH Debates CPA vs EA Featuring Jeremy Wells, Brian Streig, Terrell Turner, Lusundra Everette, Adam Markowitz 2 Conversations Alex Falcon-Huerta - outsourcing and soaring Damien Martin - notifications, attention, intention, ADHD VarsityTips - Staffing, Outsourcing, Social Media, ChatGPT Coming Soon AH Gazette - Email AH Guide - Blog AH TV - YT FBPM Episode with Sherrell Martin VarsityTips on Trips The Principal’s Office with Ron Baker Firm Hard Numbers with Sons of CPAs
Wed, January 25, 2023
095 Staffing, Offshoring, Poaching, ChatGPT, & Attracting Talent | #Varsity
Episode 95 | Recorded January 6, 2023 Sponsored by AppStream powered by The GrowthLab The new Expensify Fragrance: "Consequences" by Expensify Don't be tardy to the Coach Mackenzie party. That's right. You're listening to VarsityTips formerly known as NiksTips with Scott and Nikole, where they sit down and discuss a hot topic to get Nik's hot takes and tips. It's the same show you've grown to know and love. We're calling it something new to fit the curriculum at Accounting High. So lace up your sneaks and stretch out because VarsityTips is now in session. Talking to Expensify Expensify Tattoo Accountant Bracket Challenge “March Appness” Automation in Firms Writing of the AppS.T.R.E.A.M. Rap AppStream Staffing and Social Media Losing Money on Paper Getting Back in the Grind Hiring in the US and Philippines Cultural Differences and Business Meetings Big Swings ChatGPT and Accounting Forms of Communication Firm owners doing their own accounting Quickbooks and Xero Expensify Accounting High GuidePosts What to do about staffing? Staff Poaching Socials as a Way to attract employees Testing Employees? Contractor to Employee Trial Employee Socials and Showcasing Your Company We Figured out this podcast thing The Ambitious Bookkeeper Sound Editor Spotlight Bloopers AppS.T.R.E.A.M. Rap All the shoutouts: Expensify, Clayton Oats, Amy Vetter, Kenji, Nick Pasquarosa, Blake Oliver, David Leary, Byron Patrick, GoCardless, Randy Crabtree, Ryan Lazanis, Jason Staats, AppStream, GrowthLab, Christopher Leon, Matthew Meyer, Ashley Carroll, HubSpot, Ignition, Xero, Karbon, DialPad, ChatGPT, Paul Seaton, Zapier, Chad Davis, James Ashford, Bo Burnham, Serena Shoup
Mon, January 23, 2023
094 Addition, Attention, Intention, and Notifications (feat. Damien Martin, CPA)
Episode 94 | Recorded May 30, 2022 This episode’s sponsor: Tallyfor - Book to tax in minutes, not hours! check em out at tallyfor.com Our Guest: Damien Martin Greetings accounting high! Did you go to school and study for your credentials? Well according to Scott, he was born with his unique credentials and in this episode, he shares with Damien what those credentials are. Join us for a fun conversation with Damien Martin as he shares a bit about his non-traditional way of getting into tax through going to school for music, and how time is both precious and fast which is why it is so important to be intentional with the people in your life. And we all know how much Scott despises emails and notifications so in honor of the discussion today, sit back, relax, put your phone away and open your mind because class is in session. 1 - What brings Damien to AICPA ENGAGE Shoutout to Ron Baker 6 - College: from music to accounting Shoutout to Blake Oliver, CPA 10 - Time is Weird 16 - Sometimes we get so focused on the meat that we don't focus on the fundamentals Shoutout to Karbon 20 - Bringing the FUN to FUNdamentals 24 - Disconnecting from tech Shoutout to Cal Newport’s Digital Minimalism 30 - If I had the phone in my hand, than I'm not really present 33 - Medications & ADHD 38 - There are limitations. You can work with limitations 44 - Covid and talent shortages Shoutout to Rita Keller , Botkeeper 47 - The only way to find out if the pool is really cold is to jump in 53 - Make the time work 58 - The beauty and the curse of our devices 63 - the TaxDad
Sun, January 15, 2023
093 Meditations on Outsourced Connections (feat. Alex Falcon-Huerta, FCCA)
Episode 93 | Recorded May 26, 2022 In this episode, our host Scott is joined by an ACCA International Assembly Member, Xero's MVP, Speaker, APPG Advisor & Founder of Soaring Falcon Accountancy, Alex Falcon Huerta FCCA . Alex shares her story with us and her personal drive to create a working setup that would complement the lifestyle that she’s always wanted. Listen in to learn how she’s able to maintain an accounting firm and an outsourcing company while traveling all over the world. 2 - Alex’s Accounting Why 4 - What drove your independence? 10 - How do you determine if you're a mature adult? 14 - Starting the Soaring Falcon Shoutout to Xero , Rod Drury 21 - Early stages of Soaring Falcon 24 - Outsourcing in Sri Lanka 31 - Going Back to Bali Shoutout to M F Naja Mohamed and Hassan 33 - I went there for 10 days for a break and I got stuck out there until mid-February 35 - Meditation: It's something that I knew that I needed to continue to do, to help me get through the days 38 - Alex’s Firm stats 42 - Cost comparison for outsourcing your workload 48 - B*tches In Practice and Scarano on the Rocks 53 - More on Accounting High branding 56 - Sex… and Gender… in Accounting 62 - IRL vs the digital space 67 - We all can learn from each other 73 - Alex’s parting wisdom
Thu, January 12, 2023
092 Accounting High Debates: CPA vs EA "The Battle of the Brands"
Episode 92 | Recorded October 28, 2022 This episode highlights the differences between the EA brand and the CPA brand. Never heard of an EA? Hop in and listen to our teams discuss what their designations really do for them, and what it means to be a CPA and an EA. The debate lineup: Moderator: Jeremy Wells, PhD, CPA, EA Team EA: LuSundra Everett, EA, NTPIF Adam Markowitz , EA Team CPA: Brian Streig, CPA Terrell A Turner, CPA Emcee/Custodian: Scott Scarano , EA 2 - Teams EA & CPA intros 6 - LuSundra’s EA journey 10 - What is an EA? 12 - Brian’s CPA journey 13 - CPA license. What it actually lets you do? 15 - CPA is state-based while EA is federal-based 20 - Not all CPAs do tax but all EAs do 23 - Branding issues for EAs 30 - I think all of us in this profession do a miserable job with the names of our businesses 35 - Education matters 38 - Tax is too broad of a field 44 - Organizational differences and no unification 48 - Scott’s two cents 52 - Results coming in! 53 - Wrapping it up
Mon, January 09, 2023
091 Use Your FOMO for Good | #Varsity
Episode 91 | Recorded January 6, 2023 Put your party pants on because it's time for a #VarsityParty with the Queen and Kings of party FOMO. Your favorite Accounting High trio is back and reviewing the last half of their 2022. Kenji Nikole and Scott are here to ChatGPT all about their lessons learned throughout their busiest year of travel to date. From airports to conferences to the reason you probably shouldn't ever let Scotty order spicy food at a restaurant, this episode is sure to give you a good laugh. Join us for the party to find out what Kenji's favorite moment of the year was and why 2022 was Scott's best year of his life. So turn up the volume, fill up your cup and enjoy this #VarsityParty here at Accounting High. Scott’s Hard Numbers TriMerit’s Unique CPA Live Podcast in Chicago Kenji+ New Orleans, XeroCon2022 FreshPAC in Toronto From FreshPAC to AcuityCon AppyCamp Deeper Weekend GustoNext Scotty Peaked FreshBooks Partner Meetup Atlanta FreshBooks Partner Meetup Portland Xero Roadshows ChatGPT Accountex Toronto What makes a good event? Platinum Sponsorship Subscriptions Vegas Baby Worrying, Delegation, and Trust AppS.T.R.E.A.M. (powered by the GrowthLab) Shoutouts James Ashford, Alan Colton, Randy Crabtree, Blake Oliver, Dawn Brolin, Josh Lance, Matthew May, Ashley Carroll, Expensify, Alex Miles, Twyla Verhelst, Mike McDermott, Misty Megia, Dan Gertrudes, AppStream, GrowthLab, Heather Satterly, Liz Scott, Intuit, Keeper, Ben Stein, Kenny Song, Dan Luthi, Byron Patrick, Jason Blumer, Thrieval, Nicole Davis, Will Lopez, Lorilyn Wilson, Kristen Keats, Sherrell Martin, Sarah Prevost, Tori McKee, Andrew Wall, Viviana Borz, Peter Wen, Tallyfor, Brian Streig, Paul Glantz
Thu, January 05, 2023
090 We've Got Momentum and a Niche | #Varsity
Episode 90 | Recorded December 27, 2022 Don't be tardy to the Coach Mackenzie party! That's right, you're listening to VarsityTips, formerly known as #NiksTips with Scott and Nikole, where they sit down and discuss a hot topic to get Nik's hot takes and tips. It's the same show you've grown to know and love, we're just calling it something new to fit the curriculum here at Accounting High. So lace up your sneaks and stretch out because VarsityTips is now in session. What happened last year? Trips Blessed to get away in January Ron Baker Marathon Preview Niks shifted away from CFO services Learning from failures Vices FreshPAC and other Trips The birth of Accounting High Pivotal Moments Vegas, Baby! Mexico Niks and her sports Moving to new positions Fast and slow lanes Outreach Learning from others Stay tuned for part 2… Scott Scarano Stories (S3X) More Teasers Accounting High Times with Byron Moving up and getting better Thank you to the audience Shoutouts Gusto, Will Lopez, David Leary, QBConnect, FreshBooks, Jason Staats, Blake Oliver, David Emmerman, Byron Patrick, Genie Whitehouse, Sarah Prevost, Dan Luthi, Keeper, James Ashford, Karbon, Ashley Carrol, Liz Mason, Paul Seaton, Jody Grunden, Summit CPA Group, Xero, AppyCamp, Deeper Weekend, Ron Baker, David Barrett
Bonus · Thu, January 05, 2023
#5minLy | Appreciation & Team Motivation
enjoy this little bonus snack from Accounting High featuring Michael Ly, CEO of Reconciled Sponsored by BooksTime check em out at bookstime.com/accountants it's surprising how little positive affirmations we give each other in general as human beings, but to receive that from the owner or CEO of a company, that really goes a long way, way farther than we realized, and that we care to admit....
Sat, December 31, 2022
089 Thinking Big and Small (feat. Jason Staats, CPA) | #StaatSnacks
Episode 89 | Recorded September 2, 2022 Our Accounting High listener survey is right here https://bit.ly/3NRSAfD An episode that’s surely worth capping off 2022. Jason Staats, CPA, MBA and Scott (Lil Toddler) Scarano gives us another great talk about everything big and small, and I mean EVERYTHING! Career? Business? Family? Purpose? Contents? Hobbies? You name it. This lengthy episode is no short of topics that’ll make you ponder on the things that you’ve done, how far you’ve reached, and how much more you can accomplish. From all of us here at Accounting High, Wishing y’all a happy new year! 0 - Previously on #StaatSnacks 4 - The Accounting Celebs Shoutout to Jody Grunden, CPA , Ron Baker , Blake Oliver, CPA , David Barrett 11 - Getting into Vlogs Shoutout to Xero ’s XeroCon 16 - Attention from others 23 - How do I leave the space for doing all the things I wanna do with them (my kids)? 26 - Our different universes 31 - Get yourself out of the little bubble 38 - Shilling season with Jason Shoutout to Simon Sinek ’s Infinite Game, Ryan Lazanis, CPA 44 - The old & new context of rivals 47 - It takes a level of confidence to be able to be vulnerable 53 - Jason goes podcasting Shoutout to Gusto , Chad Davis 60 - Storytelling Shoutout to Edward Mendlowitz 64 - It’s not because I want to compete, I just want to have a bigger impact Shoutout to Earmark 71 - Rapping and Podcasting Shoutout to Drew Carrick , Twyla Verhelst, CPA 77 - Fears Shoutout to Jason Ackerman, CPA, CFP®, CGMA 82 - Kids love routine, but they don’t like authority Shoutout to Joshua Lance, CPA, CGMA 88 - You can only grow one thing effectively at a time 92 - Building a creative empire 97 - Money = Time + Freedom 103 - Accounting High’s freshman year Shoutout to <a href="https://www.linkedin.com/in/mad
Wed, December 28, 2022
088 Jedi Mindset Shifts (feat. James Ashford)
Episode 88 | Recorded May 18, 2022 Let’s join Scott and Niks in this great conversation with James Ashford , Bestselling Author and Founder of GoProposal. This episode goes deep on positive mindset shifts and how being intentional with everything in your life can really shape who you are. James also shares some of the secrets to his success at GoProposal and how having the right team can propel your business forward. 2 - I always wanted to run a business. I don't know where that came from since my parents aren’t business owners, they’re the opposite. They worked for big companies Shoutout to Tony Robbins , Brad Martineau 5 - He says “You couldn't be getting this anymore wrong” I say “I'm not going to buy into any of that and I'm going to go and help him” 8 - GoProposal: I manifested that this business was built to sell from day one Shoutout to John Warrillow 14 - How did you know when it was time to sell? “We always had a number, my wife and I, that we were heading towards” 20 - Accountants have this double burden, not only the burden that all humans have but the fact they're looking for what's wrong as well 24 - GoProposal’s Kill the King Shoutout to Heather Elkington 27 - One of James’ BIG marketing secret 36 - We don't see the world as it is. We see the world as we are 41 - I'm very, I say blessed, but it is very intentional to surround myself with good people 46 - This was a massive storm. We weren't ready for it. But you should have been prepared for a storm 51 - You're helping people to reach up, grab a hand and pull themselves forward, but also inviting people to throw their hand back down and to drag people up as well 64 - You can't help everybody, but you can help everybody within your reach
Wed, December 21, 2022
087 Infinite Game of Accounting (feat. Simon Sinek's Infinite Game) | #FreshBookReports Vol. 5
Episode 87 | Recorded October 8, 2022 Thank you to this episode’s sponsor, FreshBooks Another Fresh Book Report by Scott and Twyla and today they’re doing Simon Sinek’s Infinite Game. They break down their own understanding of the book. What is this Infinite Game? How do we win? Or do we even need to win? This episode bridges the book’s concepts and our hosts’ personal experiences and their own Infinite Games. 0 - Class is now in session! 3 - Why Infinite Game? Shoutout to Greg McKeown’s Effortless 8 - You didn't get stuck on the 10th page because it was boring. You got stuck cuz you were inspired and it triggers so many ideas Shoutout to FreshBooks’ FreshPAC and all our friends there 12 - The profit and losses of a business are not necessarily what defines the win or loss of that infinite game Shoutout to David Barrett 16 - What does it look like if your clients want you rather than need you? Shoutout to Acuity Accounting, Karbon 22 - Competing with everybody versus learning from everybody 25 - We're on this journey to build a partner program and then a product that people want to explore using versus they're forced to because there's no other alternative 31 - Build a trusting team Shoutout to Alex Miles 37 - Whether we look to one another as competitors, we look to one another as colleagues, or we look to one another for inspiration, it's happening inside this profession where people are seeking the knowledge of what others have Shoutout to Chad Davis, Nicole Davis, CPA, Nayo Carter-Gray, EA MBA 40 - Accounting High is gonna be a community, a platform Shoutout to Jason M. Blumer, CPA, Jason Staats, CPA, MBA, Ryan Lazanis, CPA, Clayton Oates 46 - They changed the game through their will to further their cause 53 - Give it up for Lil Toddler’s Infinite Sinek (A parody of ‘Infinite’ by Eminem) 57 - Twyla and Scott’s final thoughts on the review and the book itself
Thu, December 15, 2022
085 Cloud CEO to Desktop CPA (feat. Teddy Sullivan, CPA)
Episode 85 | Recorded May 20, 2022 We would so appreciate it if you took our listener survey linked here: https://bit.ly/3NRSAfD The Accounting High Booster Club would like to thank GoProposal for the support! GoProposal https://goproposal.com Scott, Jason, and Teddy Sullivan, CPA talk about purchasing an accounting firm, making changes, cloud or desktop, and everything in between. They also talk about sales, acquisitions, tools, and more. If you’re ever thinking of purchasing your own accounting firm or just looking to expand your current one, you wouldn’t want to miss this episode. 5 - The not-so-usual track: Teddy’s journey into owning an accounting firm Shoutout to Xero 7 - What got me into accounting? I didn’t want to sell printers 11 - Teddy’s thought process when it comes to purchasing a firm 17 - Thinking of purchasing a firm? Go remote or go local? 21 - Transitioning ownership 24 - Cash or card? The dilemma of collecting our clients’ payments 30 - The pain of change is greater than the pain of the present 38 - Xero or Quickbooks? Shoutout to Intuit Quickbooks , Ben Richmond CA 41 - You gotta bring somebody there and let them see it. 43 - What are your next steps? 45 - Scott’s sales process Shoutout to Timothy Donohue 49 - Capacity planning differences from our firm owners 54 - Teddy’s advice to firm buyers and owners that are looking to expand Shoutout to James Ashford 66 - The Oprah of Accounting Podcasts
Tue, December 13, 2022
084 Perfecting the Pareto Profit Principle (feat. Damon Yudichak, CPA)
Episode 84 | Recorded May 16, 2022 We would so appreciate it if you took our listener survey linked here: https://bit.ly/3NRSAfD Today’s episode is sponsored by Justworks - visit justworks.com/partners In this episode, we find out what Scott Scarano was like as an employee. Jason Ackerman’s usual drill in drilling out guests. Damon Yudichak, PFP, MBA, CPA ’s journey from serving in the army to being an accountant and how he was able to keep his firm up despite doing it solo. He is another testament to the Profit First philosophy so be sure to keep your notes on how he was taking home the same amount of money as a 1.5M firm despite grossing just a fifth of that. 1 - What was Scott like as an employee? 3 - Damon’s journey toward accounting 6 - I think one of the great things about the accounting business is you've got this recurring revenue stream that you can build 12 - No employees even after running the firm for more than 10 years 17 - Selling my clients to get new ones Shoutout to Mike Michalowicz , John Briggs 22 - A lot of people are good at making money, the challenge is keeping it 23 - 80% of your revenue will come from 20% of your customers: The Pareto Principle 31 - Damon’s tech tools for his practice 35 - Damon’s numbers, exposed 42 - Best advice to firm owners from Damon 46 - To all real estate agents out there, be sure to check out Damon’s Profit First for Real Estate Agents
Sat, December 10, 2022
083 Tax Season Scalability (feat. Tallyfor) | #Varsity
Episode 83 | Recorded October 31, 2022 We're on a mission to set our own traditions here at Accounting High, and we need your help and feedback to do it. If you have a few minutes to spare, we would so appreciate it if you took our listener survey linked here: https://bit.ly/3NRSAfD Thank you to Tallyfor for the support, from The Accounting High Booster Club https://www.tallyfor.com/ This Episode includes appearances by: Nikole Mackenzie, CPA “Coach Mack” Scott Scarano, EA Peter Wen (Tallyfor) Shane Mason, CPA Megan Justice, EA, LTC and for those of you that know and love our NiksTips series, you’ll be pleased to know it’s not going anywhere, it’s now “VarsityTips with Coach Mack” Topics discussed today include: Accrual Based Accounting Saving Time with Tallyfor Heros Scalability Switching to the Cloud Having Fun Limitations and the Future of Tallyfor FreshBooks Journal Entries Closing Statements Debut of “So Fresh, So Easy”
Tue, November 29, 2022
082 Mentoring in the Accounting Multiverse (feat. Logan Graf, CPA)
Episode 82 | Recorded May 23, 2022 We're on a mission to set our own traditions here at Accounting High, and we need your help and feedback to do it. If you have a few minutes to spare, we would so appreciate it if you took our listener survey linked here: https://bit.ly/3NRSAfD The Accounting High Booster Club: thank you GoProposal for the support! GoProposal https://goproposal.com Today’s episode is a laidback chat between Scott and Tax TeleGraf, Logan Graf, CPA . They give us an insight into how today’s social media platforms have been tools to reach out not just to the accounting community but to potential clients as well. These tools are double-edged swords but if played correctly, they can be used as a way of attracting clients that are inclined toward the same culture. Interested in building your own following? Be sure to keep your ears open as you wouldn’t want to miss the tips that got Logan his 11.2K followers on Twitter. 3 - Why Accounting of all things? 6 - Kids don’t really want to be accountants when they grow up 10 - The best accounting firm owners didn’t take the traditional accounting route 14 - I’m not afraid of going against the grain 25 - Why did you get into Twitter? 29 - The race to 10K: Staats vs Graf 35 - I just want to make people smarter when it comes to taxes 42 - You can only grow and nurture one thing at a time 46 - The pains of plannings out your goals 50 - Where do you find fulfillment? 54 - Talking about an accountant's body 58 - The Accounting Multiverse 72 - Working from home has been a blessing 74 - Posting and Boasting 78 - The Logan process for filtering potential clients 90 - How can I grow my following on Twitter? 92 - The best posts are the ones that people can relate to 94 - The search for Daily Tax Memes. Who are you?
Mon, November 21, 2022
081 Accounting Change Club | #Varsity
Episode 81 | Recorded January 14, 2022 Welcome to Part 3 of our Accounting Club Collection This is an episode about changing the accounting profession, one firm at a time. Starring Zunie Nguyen , CPA - Founder & CEO of Yogi CPA Today’s episode is sponsored by Justworks - visit justworks.com/partners Our first-ever, annual listeners survey; we’d love it if you took a moment to fill this out so we can continue to improve our show! https://bit.ly/3NRSAfD Song Credits H.E.R. - Changes Lana Del Rey - Change Taylor Swift - Change Sheryl Crow - A Change Would Do You Good Tupac - Changes Justin Bieber - Changes Black Sabbath - Changes Deftones - Change (In the House of Flies) David Bowie - Changes Otis Redding - A Change Is Gonna Come Blind Melon - Change Fleetwood Mac - Landslide Eric Clapton - Change the World J. Cole - Change
Fri, November 18, 2022
080 Change, Control, Courage, and Cougars (feat. Kellie Parks, CPB)
Episode 80 | Recorded May 9, 2022 The Accounting High Booster Club, thank you GoProposal for the support! GoProposal https://goproposal.com Today we have Scott and Kellie Parks CPB chatting during their time in Paradise Point San Diego. Hop on a conversation that revolves around change and why there is no stopping the Big Shift that our industry is currently on. Kellie shares how change has been a very fun experience for her and how she embraced these changes over time. Aren’t you tired of the current practices that you’re doing in your firm? Or are you content with everything right now that these changes seem more like a chore? Tune in as Scott and Kellie dissect these changes and how they continue to cope with what’s hot 0 - The SaaSy Accounting Coach 3 - Scott and Kellie in Paradise Point San Diego 6 - I do lots of accounting but I’m not an accountant 10 - How Kellie found her love for accounting 13 - I do one personal tax return a year and every single year that client does not pay me and complains about the job that I did Shoutout to Ryan Lazanis, CPA , Chad Davis , Brian Clare , Rachel Fisch, CPB Shoutout to our sponsors GoProposal 20 - “Change is hard. Not changing will be harder” - Kellie Parks 25 - People who have trouble with change have not experienced the fun of it 28 - The fun factor in implementing tech is waaaaay underrated Shoutout to Zapier, 17Hats, Acuity Scheduling, Acuity Accounting, Matthew May 37 - We control numbers and then we try to control everything else around us Shoutout to Blake Oliver, CPA , Kyle Turriff 41 - Coms: from COMpetitors to COMmunity Shoutout to Jason Staats, CPA, MBA 47 - Grant me the serenity to accept the things I cannot change, the courage to change the things I can, and the wisdom to know the difference 53 - Go get the things you need to get, don’t have them shipped to you
Tue, November 15, 2022
079 Accounting Culture Club | #Varsity
Episode 79 | Recorded February 11, 2022 We're on a mission to set our own traditions here at Accounting High, and we need your help and feedback to do it. If you have a few minutes to spare, we would so appreciate it if you took our listener survey! https://bit.ly/3NRSAfD Scott’s Accounting Firm is hiring, if you’re an accountant and you think you might want to work for Scott, we will all pray for you, and you can send your resume to jobs@padgettnc.com The Accounting High Booster Club wants to share a big thanks to Botkeeper for their continued support. Botkeeper - visit https://www.botkeeper.com/ for more information In today’s episode, Scott discusses the importance and Impact of Culture in our firms/businesses with Jacob Schroeder, CPA and Marissa Jones . Our host and guests share their own experiences and find out among themselves what components of their businesses made up their companies’ culture. Why is it so important that it should even be considered when we pick our clients? Does having a culture that resonates with our team really affect output? How does it help? Find out in this episode how culture has been a proven essential to thrive in the entrepreneurial world 5 - What is Culture? What are we after when we’re building culture? 9 - Considering the company culture when hiring 12 - Defining your company’s culture 15 - It's important for us to build cultures that compensate and offset our extremes… 17 - You want things to reflect reality, not aspiration Shoutout to Logistis for Designers , Karbon 19 - Is there a way to test the cultural fit of a client before taking them on? 21 - We should have a greater filter level on clients coming in the door than we do on staff 25 - How much does the environment we create reflect our culture? 26 - People at different stages in life are going to interact better with certain cultures 28 - Key components of Culture 31 - The different kinds of cultural frameworks 37 - Key “C words” of Culture Shoutout to Kenji Kuramoto , ClickUp
Wed, November 09, 2022
078 Accounting Infamous (feat. Mike Michalowicz)
Episode 78 | Recorded April 18, 2022 It's our long overdue listeners' survey! please fill it out, there will be prizes! https://bit.ly/3NRSAfD FreshBooks MeetUps - check us out in the PDX at Ecliptic Brewery on November 10, 2022! register here: https://t.co/6RaUdSHuAa The Accounting High Booster Club: thank you for the support! GoProposal https://goproposal.com/ and Justworks http://justworks.com/partners Joining Scott and Jason today, we have Mike Michalowicz . Find out how the man who wanted to be a garbage man when he was young went out to be the man whose mission is to eradicate Entrepreneurial Poverty through his books and other outlets. What is this Profit First Methodology? And how do we begin applying it in our firms/businesses? Tune in so you can get first-hand information from Mike himself as he shares his stories and how he has helped others to be more profitable. 7 - The name game 5 - Why did you pick the accounting vertical for Profit First? 11 - I wanted to be a garbage man when I grow up 17 - I'm just taking ideas that worked in the past, packaging in a slightly new way. But I'm a regular Joe and it worked for me, I hope it serves others 18 - The Pratfall Effect 20 - A backup job for me would have been a standup comedian 22 - How the Grow My Accounting Practice Podcast came to life 24 - Profit is a discipline. It's not something that's like a flip of the switch, like one night it just magically appears. It's gotta be baked into your business 32 - Mike’s one piece of advice? Schedule a four-week vacation a year or two from today 35 - How do we apply Profit First? Shoutout to Relay 37 - Buying up other firms Shoutout to David Emmerman , Michael Ly 46 - “Purpose OR Profit” or “Purpose AND Profit” Shoutout to Simon Sinek 47 - The philosophy of finding your why is not necessarily just a philosophy, but it's a way of life Shoutout to James Clear
Sat, November 05, 2022
077 Accounting Community Club | #Varsity
Episode 77 | Recorded January 14, 2022 Today’s episode is sponsored by Justworks - visit justworks.com/partners Our first-ever, annual listeners survey; we’d love it if you took a moment to fill this out so we can continue to improve our show! https://padgettnc.typeform.com/to/BSKZbvWk FreshBooks MeetUps - check us out if you’re in the PDX area, at Ecliptic Brewery on November 10, 2022! sign-ups here: https://bit.ly/3E3VkUc Andy Smith and Joshua Lance, CPA, CGMA Scott, Andy, and Josh share a quick chat about the accounting community and how it became a place where we can collaborate, improve our craft, and a place where we can open up about our struggles and strengths as firm owners to inspire all of those around us. 2 - Discovering a community Shoutout to Thriveal Jason M. Blumer, CPA, Julie Shipp, Greg Kyte, Marie (Phillips) Greene, CPA 8 - Just having a place where you can share those ideas and get feedback from others, I think is critical 12 - The community shows you the reality of running a firm Shoutout to Kenji Kuramoto 16 - You're not really competing with anybody for clients This episode is brought to you by the letter C Comrades confidence communities critical confidence comradery context crazy case studies connection communities, comparisons changes, case of coors competition collaboration cloud accounting current craft brewery chow conversation
Tue, November 01, 2022
076 The Language of Business Talk (feat. Terrell Turner, CPA)
Episode 76 | Recorded April 15, 2022 Our first-ever, annual listeners survey; we’d love it if you took a moment to fill this out so we can continue to improve our show! https://padgettnc.typeform.com/to/BSKZbvWk FreshBooks MeetUps aka "The Lil Toddler '22 Tour"- check us out if you’re in the PDX area, at Ecliptic Brewery on November 10, 2022! register for the event here: https://bit.ly/3VHJ5mM Our Guest: Terrell Turner, CPA Scott gets a one-on-one with the content master, Terrel Turner. We get to know the man behind Business Talk Library and how a high school football varsity got into accounting, content-making and being awarded a 40 Under 40 award. This episode ain’t just for the content conscious out there but also for those who’re planning to start scaling their businesses. Terrell doesn’t shy away from giving out tips and how you can focus on your role to make sure your business drives the way you need it. 2 - My wife handles our taxes so I can focus on the client stuff Shoutout to Jason Ackerman, CPA, CFP®, CGMA 4 - Terrell’s early days and the way he got into Accounting 10 - The Business Talk Library 15 - How Terrell used the pandemic to prepare and build his business 20 - Growing the network and finding our guests 23 - What were some of your inspirations to start in a lot of this stuff? Shoutout to Gary Vaynerchuk 27 - Learning from Oprah and Larry King Shoutout to Oprah Winfrey, Larry King, Conan O’Brien, Jimmy Falon 31 - Getting into the nitty-gritty of content making - the editing process 36 - On the way to becoming the content master Shoutout to StreamYard 37 - Terrell’s firm structure Shoutout to Lola Turner, CPA 43 - Inside the firm: Tools that we use Shoutout to LiveFlow 48 - From finding anybody to do business with to finding the ones we can create processes for. Finding your Niche 53 - When you have three older brothers, no matter what you do, you will never be the best at it for a very long time 57 - Focus on the wins that you do have and build from there 67 - 40 Under 40 71 - Something to get excited for? Terrell’s Pitch Analysis 76 - If you're doing a little bit of everything, you'll never be able to really scale it because you're doing so much Shoutout to Adam Hale, CPA and Chad Davis<
Wed, October 26, 2022
075 Physical Education in Accounting with Scotty & Nikole | #Varsity
Episode 75 | Recorded July 19, 2022 for more on Justworks check out justworks.com/partners #NiksTips on PE A fitter you is a better you! Scott and Niks share their tips on Physical activities and exercises to help us be fit and stay fit. Is there even time to workout on our busy days? And how can you workout when there isn’t even enough hours in a day? Listen in as our hosts share their secrets on how they were able to keep fitness in check despite their busy schedules. 1 - Ready for our PE class? Shoutout to James Ashford, Peloton 3 - The challenge in the real world: Do we have time left for exercise? 6 - Niks’s efforts to workout while working 11 - Scott’s style and teaching PE Shoutout to Glen Cordoza and Kelly Starrett’s Becoming a Supple Leopard 14 - The secrets to fitting fitness into your life Shoutout to Twyla Verhelst, CPA 18 - Tracking physical activities at the office and having a fitness stipend Shoutout to PeopleKeep 21 - Home workout tips and essentials Shoutout to Les Mills International 26 - Learning from Youtube and Sex Ed 30 - Mastering portion control and eating right 36 - Drinking? Be sure it doesn’t inhibit you 37 - Sleeping right is the key 44 - Don’t leave your workouts when traveling Shoutout to Kenji Kuramoto 47 - Start ‘em young: Teaching our kids to be fit
Mon, October 24, 2022
074 Learning From Each Other (feat. Sandy Johns, CPA)
Episode 74 | Recorded April 11, 2022 Register for FreshBooks Partner Meet Ups and admission to the Lil Toddler World Tour 2022 Come hang out with us to enjoy food, drinks, and free swag. And an opportunity to earn some extra credit with the possibility of being featured on a fresh recording of Accounting High. Spots are limited so act now! November 3, 2022 - Atlanta November 10, 2022 - Portland November 29, 2022 - Toronto December 4, 2022 - Austin Register for FreshBooks Partner Meet Ups and admission to the Lil Toddler World Tour 2022 Scott is joined by Sandy Johns of Revolution Financial Solutions. A laid-back chat about tax, the accounting space, the pandemic, Apple, subscriptions, and relationships. A real refresher of what has been happening in our world over the past years. Sandy shares her experience of growing up in a conservative household and how their shared grace made up the uniqueness of her family. Surely, our diversity brings us all together to continue learning from each other in making this space a great place to evolve and revolutionize. 2 - Tax season in 2022: Cushions from the past two years are gone now Shoutout to Jason Ackerman, CPA, CFP®, CGMA 6 - Sandy’s Unique family 10 - It's important that we approach things looking for an opportunity to find common ground with others 13- the importance of bringing diverse points of view and life experiences to the profession so that we can learn from each other 17 - Outsourcing Tax Shoutout to SurePrep LLC , Thomson Reuters ’ UltraTax, Donna Bordeaux 22 - The more touch points you have with the client, the easier everything else is 26 - If you look at this relationship as purely transactional, you're probably not the right fit for us 29 - Doing sales gives us the ability to filter and get the kind of clients that we want Shoutout to Ryan Lazanis, CPA 32 - How the Pandemic changed us 35 - The unintended bonuses (and consequences) that came with the changes we do to our firm Shoutout to Karbon 41 - Connecting the community is a service to the profession Shoutout to Xero , James Clear ’s Atomic Habits 46 - 100 Days of No Code Shoutout to <a href="https://www.linkedin.c
Sun, October 16, 2022
073 Your Ego is Your Enemy | #FreshBookReports Vol. 4
Episode 73 | Recorded May 27, 2022 A Fresh Book Report @ Accounting High with Scotty Scarano and Twyla Verhelst, CPA Today's Book Report is on Ego is the Enemy by Ryan Holiday Ever felt like you’re the king of the world? Or like you’re carrying the world on your shoulders? When was the last time you felt like you won? Or the last time you felt like you lost? What and who got you there? Our Ego, if left unchecked, clouds our vision and prevents us from reaching greater heights. It affects us not just in moments of success but in our failures as well. Do you have too much pride to ask for help? Look in the mirror and gauge yourself. Listen in as Scott and Twyla attempt to defeat their greatest enemies, themselves. 4 - Your biggest enemy is yourself and you’re more likely to be what gets in the way than anything else 7 - The three components: Aspire, Success, and Failure Shoutout to Atomic Habits by James Clear , The Infinite Game by Simon Sinek 8 - Aspire: losing touch with reality and letting your pride block what’s in front of you Shoutout to Frank Shamrock 10 - Find your Plus, Minus, and Equals in life and in business Shoutout to Catherine Graham, Angela Merkel 15 - You get confidence, but if you’re not careful, it takes you too far 17 - Once you taste that success and you feel like you know it all… That’s gonna lead to failure 20 - Beware of the disease of me Shoutout to Pat Riley, Steve Jobs, Kanye West 22 - A lot of awareness and intention is required to keep us from becoming our own barriers 25 - A monk is separate from all and in harmony with all 27 - Failure: being defined by your success that you can’t even define yourself when you fail 36 - Was it them? Was it me? Or is it the circumstances that got us here? 37 - Every step of the way, Ego is the Enemy 39 - We may think that we're never equipped to get there, but there are definitely people like you that have gotten there and even past that Shoutout to Kenji Kuramoto , Nikole Mackenzie, CPA
Tue, October 11, 2022
072 Age of the Superapp (feat. David Barrett, CEO)
Episode 72 | Recorded October 6, 2022 Guest: David Barrett Hosts: Nikole Mackenzie and Scott Scarano Scott and Nikole get to chat with Expensify’s David Barrett. Unfiltered, uncaged, unmasked talk with the SuperApp founder. For real, no summary would be enough to describe just how dope David is. Are you ready to be shaken from your core beliefs? Go past your limit and be limitless just like how David and his team ushered their company to continuously evolve with the times. Familiar with Expensify? Think you know what they really are? Guess you’ll be dumbfounded to know where they’re really headed. This is definitely an episode you wouldn’t want to miss as David shares his experiences and imparts his way of thinking that’ll make you say “Guess it’s time to let the alien in me take control” "The story we tell ourselves about who we are, that story can change. The ink should never dry on the novel you're writing about yourself. You should reinterpret your history." 2 - Who inspires David?... the fictional Mr. Darcy 5 - Tell me something you fucked up, “Confident I do the best I can with the info I have” and “I’ve made some very expensive mistakes” 6 - What is the root of all evil? Altruism 9 - The secret to happiness and success is purpose. Do you believe that your actions are advancing you to some sort of long-term personal purpose? “Real change happens with a business model - that's the only way to save the world” 16 - Expensify’s structure? It is like a garden, a magical, mysterious garden where everyone, every day is planting seeds that we've never seen before “Live rich have fun and save the world - Every day should be awesome - Work-life balance is almost toxic” 19 - A comp model determined by your peers? Do you worry about unconfirmed biases? 26 - It was never built to be an expense reporting product… We just happen to start with expense management because it has a number of great features to it “Perfection is unachievable. - I never want to leave my company - Be bizarre, be different” 32 - What are the limits of Expensify as a superApp? Or are there limits? 34 - Change is not intrinsically good. We don’t do anything without defining the problem we’re trying to solve 39 - There are no rules. Only CONSEQUENCES: If I think it's gonna drive the business and help us leverage, have fun, save the world, we're gonna do it 41 - Self-doubt got burned out of David throughout his career 47 - How to make your company an environment for creativity? 62 - We haven’t even launched yet, in my mind. It’s just that our prototype is so valuable 69 - We’re alien in many respects, not because we seek to appear alien. It’s just that we don’t see the same constraints that others do 70 - Failing to mind the imagination gap was my biggest fuck up 71 - I am limited by what I can convince people to do <p
Mon, October 03, 2022
071 Fifty Shades of Gray Areas (feat. John Briggs, CPA)
Episode 71 | Recorded April 11, 2022 Guest: John Briggs Hosts: Jason Ackerman & Scott Scarano John Briggs, the man who created an accounting firm where accountants make more money and work less cause traditional firms suck. Scott and Jason got great insights on how John manages his firm and you can too! This is an episode that firm owners wouldn’t want to miss. Not a firm owner? No problem cause you never know what you’ll get here until you listen to John’s stories and how his team is getting the best out of their professional lives 2 - Too many accountants seem like they end up working for the government instead of their clients 7 - 100K belt buckle?! Aggressively writing off your expenses for your business 10 - Focusing on taxes, is it the opposite way now? Shoutout to Intuit TurboTax 14 - In-depth discussion of CFO work/advising services 18 - Ever heard of the PITA box of clients? 20 - Incite Tax’s take on pricing their services 25 - I think to save the industry, we have to be aware as firm owners of the burden we're putting on our team 29 - John’s secrets to efficiency Shoutout to Insightly , Canopy 38 - Incite Tax’s management structure: Breaking away from the norm 47 - All of our audience understand that revenue is not the same as profit. Right? Right? Shoutout to Padgett Business Services , Dark Horse CPAs , Breakaway Bookkeeping & Advising , High Rock Accounting 52 - The challenges that come with Incite Tax’s structure setup for it’s licensees 57 - Too much more to learn but too little time with John. 58 - Interested in becoming a licensee of Incite Tax? Reach out to John at john@incitetax.com Shoutout to Greg Kyte, CPA , Reach Reporting, Justin Hatch
Thu, September 29, 2022
070 Find Your Purpose | #TheGuide
Episode 70 | Recorded July 12, 2022 Purpose - the reason for which something is done or created. What is your reason for doing or creating something? In this episode, Niks and Scott share their own purposes and give us an insight into how we can find ours. Our passion defines us but our purpose defines who, what, and where we want to be. Listen in and get a better look into yourself like our hosts did and you might be surprised at what your true purposes are. 1 - A lot of things I do are by accident, but accidentally on purpose 2 - Be sure to check out liveflow.io/sons 6 - How do moments in our lives fit into our purpose 8 - Figuring things out as they come along. Does that work out? Shout out to Jason Ackerman, CPA, CFP®, CGMA , Blake Oliver, CPA 10 - The moment we realize it’s always about money until it’s not Shout out to Dave Olsen , Jay Shetty , Madeline Reeves 14 - Living in your Dharma is a certain route to fulfillment Shoutout to Liz Mason 16 - Purpose. What is it really? How do we know what ours is? 19 - Quadrants of potential 24 - Niks goes through an exercise about finding her Dharma Shoutout to Ashley Carroll 25 - The 4 types of people: Creators, Makers, Guides, and Leaders 27 - Creators are always on the move. Work hard, play hard 32 - My passion where I really want to help people is to learn from my mistakes and that’s doing this podcast 36 - Makers work hard but always maintain balance. The best right hand Shoutout to Christopher Leon 38 - Guides use their knowledge to help people find their purpose Shoutout to Ryan Lazanis, CPA , Kenji Kuramoto 39 - Leaders govern, inspire, and engage others Shoutout to Ron Baker 45 - Most of the reason we're so serious is that we're so worried about what somebody else will think if we do different Shoutout to Zachary Call, CPA 49 - Helping others is a lot easier when we’re comfortable in our own shoes Shoutout to Mary Delaney , Karbon 54 - Nobody’s going to
Mon, September 26, 2022
069 The Accounting Messiah, Righteous Lazarus (feat. Ryan Lazanis, CPA)
Episode 69 | Recorded April 4, 2022 Guest: Ryan Lazanis, CPA Hosts: Jason Ackerman and Scott Scarano Let’s bring our focus on the Accounting Messiah, the Righteous Lazarus aka Ryan Lazanis, and how he started impacting the accounting space. Ryan shares his internal process on how he started his accounting firm, so far ahead of the curve he practically created the curve. What is your end goal? Why not start with that end goal in mind? As for us, we aim to keep you informed, entertained, and educated until the last minute of this episode so be sure to make space for all the insights that Ryan, Scott, and Jason share. 2 - Accounting is the language of business 3 - Accounting, you’re going to need it no matter what profession you go into 6 - Ryan’s path to starting up his own accounting firm 8 - The Accounting Messiah from Montreal 13 - Xen Accounting’s early days 14 - Growth and Scale difference Shoutout to Xero , ReceiptBank (now Dext) 18 - To scale professional services, it really starts at the offering level 21 - Creating a factory that could replicate it without you there 24 - How selling his accounting firm came about 27 - My purpose was really about helping advancing the accounting profession. Modernize the profession in some way, shape, or form 31 - An accounting trip to the tax havens 33 - Future Firm provides coaching, training, education, and community to modern accountants that want to create a scalable systematic firm that improves their lifestyle 36 - Biggest mistake traditional firms make? The firm’s structure 40 - What’s hotter than a million-dollar cloud firm with low churn 43 - What is a healthy profit margin? No lower than 30% Shoutout to Jeff Phillips , Padgett Business Services , Dark Horse CPAs , Chase Birky, CPA , Marie (Phillips) Greene, CPA 47 - Ryan’s take on the changes coming to the accounting world 50 - Bringing the relationship back to accounting while scaling your firm 57 - Want Ryan’s tips and tricks directly in your inbox? Checkout futurefirm.co/newsletter 58 - Ryan’s advice for firm owners? Start with the end in mind
Bonus · Sat, September 24, 2022
Puglia and the Preaccounting Superapp at ExpensiCon (feat. Expensify)
Accounting High (aka Sons of CPAs Podcast) Season 3 Bonus Ep | Recorded July 26, 2022 this is our reaction episode to one of the latest Expensify emails... Okay. So if you are on Expensify's email list. You probably get emails from David Barrett all the time. He's known for sending really long opinionated irreverent emails... and we got an email directly from David with an invite to ExpensiCon. now, now granted his emails come from David Barrett. It's got his picture on there in my Gmail, it always looks like a very personal email... here's the email It can be hard to look past the grim headlines that seem to pummel us daily, but beneath the bad news are some good trends. The worst of the pandemic is behind us, the markets have stabilized and are recovering. Good days are on the horizon, and as we all scramble to stay afloat, it's easy to overlook the slow tectonic shift happening in the accounting industry around us: the Age of the Preaccounting Superapp is dawning. And just like we did at previous moments of transformation, we're heralding this dawn by hosting our third ExpensiCon - and you're invited! In May 2023, 100 accounting titans will gather in the pristine Puglian countryside at Borgo Egnazia to experience the finest in Italian food and wine - by the pool and around the table - while swapping stories, sharing best practices, and planning the future of our industry. If you haven't been to ExpensiCon before, here's a quick glimpse of what it'll be like: ... We don't host ExpensiCon every year; we only do it when there is something important to discuss. Join that discussion at ExpensiCon.com . -david Founder and CEO of Expensify Questions? Ask me on Twitter! @dbarrett PS: Remember that Tesla contest for Approved! Accountants? We have a winner! Learn how Casey from AirCFO won a shiny new Tesla just by helping her clients adopt Expensify! PPS: Are you an Approved! Accounting firm (or would you like to be)? Reply to this email to learn how to get significantly discounted client pricing, a dedicated account manager, and live onboarding for your clients by chat and video!
Wed, September 21, 2022
068 The Balancing Act: Accounting meets Showbiz (feat. Drew Carrick, CPA aka The Rapping CPA aka Petty Ca$h)
Episode 68 | Recorded March 28, 2022 Guest: Drew Carrick aka The Rapping CPA aka Petty Ca$h Hosts: Blake Oliver and Scott Scarano Sponsor: Jirav - head over to jirav.com/sons PBC. If you don’t know what that means, it’s not for you. Or, go ahead, and watch the show made by accountants for accountants. Scott, Blake, and Drew dive deep into the accounting revolution that we’re currently in and bridge the connection between accounting and mainstream media. How, when, and where did this start? Where are we headed? How do we keep up with all this? Find out and listen. 4 - Petty Ca$h’s hardcore self-introduction, give it up for The Rapping CPA Shoutout to Mike Whitmire, CPA, FloQast 6 - Scott as The Rapping EA… What chu think huh? 10 - PBC: The Office, but it’s hyper-focused on the accounting department Shoutout to The Office, Kate Flannery, Creed Braton, Michael Gallagher 12 - Get insights of some upcoming projects for the accounting demograpics from Drew 15 - Accoutant Drew vs Entertainer Drew 22 - You create your own luck by going into the business world and making the connections Shoutout to Earmark 25 - How Blake got into accounting? He didn’t want to be a starving musician 29 - The Accounting Revolution 33 - If you could change one thing about accounting, what would it be? 36 - Accounting: deemed the most difficult of the school of business majors Shoutout to Jay-Z, NAS, Jason Ackerman, CPA, CFP®, CGMA 40 - Public Accounting Anthem’s purpose 43 - Drew’s taste of fame Shoutout to Lil Dicky aka David Burd 45 - The multiverse of Drew Carrick Shoutout to Marissa Jones, Logic, EMINƎM, Weird AL Yankovic 51 - The goal is not to make money off of this. It’s to make something that the accounting demographic can relate to Shoutout to Phil Mickelson, KPMG 56 - PBC Season 2? Shoutout to Josh Sims, Joshua Glassman 61 - I haven't really felt like it's over my head cause like I said, I think I've been preparing my whole life for this specific job 65 - Can I have your attention, please? 71 - My entire life is built on this notion of balance… it’s been this balancing act Shoutout to Joe Rogan, Jamie Fox 77 - Nobody could ever come close to being you, so always stay true to you
Mon, September 19, 2022
067 Hard Numbers Vol. 2
Episode 67 Accounting High (aka Sons of CPAs) Hard Numbers Vol. 2 Scott and Jason dive deep and reveal all of their hard numbers for their respective accounting firms... this is full disclosure of their revenues and margins for the period of Jan-July 2022
Mon, September 12, 2022
066 Licensed to Tax (feat. Adam Markowitz, EA)
Episode 66 | Recorded March 21, 2022 Guest: Adam Markowitz, EA Hosts: Jason Ackerman and Scott Scarano Sponsor: Karbon - Karbon firms are connected firms - check em out at https://karbonhq.com/ Join Scott, Jason, and Adam as they talk about tax, branding, software apps, social issues, #TaxTwitter, finding your purpose, and everything in between. Find out how Adam, a Bachelor of Arts who majored in Music and History ended up in the Tax/Accounting space and why he’s here to stay. It’s about keeping in mind what’s really important to each of us, and finding our purpose. What’s yours? For Adam, it’s to help out his local community and really help out those who need it the most. 3 - Dad started the business back in 1993 5 - The best thing that ever happened to me was telling me they couldn't give me an extra buck and 50 an hour. 7 - I was into sports gambling and it was a miserable, miserable crutch for a college kid who thought he knew much more about sports than he did Shoutout to Mike Rose 8 - You're not paying me because I'm dressed in a suit. You're paying me because I've got a good brain on my shoulders 11 - A writer disguised as an accountant 13 - Having done maybe 20 returns and probably f*cked up half of them, that’s when Adam decided he’s buying into the family business 17 - I'll promise you, the name Markowitz, it ain't going to be in there anywhere. I want this business to be a lot bigger than me and I want this business to live on a lot longer Shoutout to AJ Campo 21 - How the f*ck do we think we're going to help these people when we don't offer them any help? Shoutout to Netflix , Adam Project, WeCrashed, Adam Newman, TV+ 25 - Does any accountant or tax preparer love themselves on March 21st? Shoutout to Karbon 28 - Why is Adam using Karbon? It keeps his team on task and its automators are absolutely the secret sauce 29 - Adam and his dad’s only argument in the 15 years they’ve been working together was overpaying him Shoutout to Jim Costello 32 - #TaxTwitter Shoutout to Kelly Phillips Erb aka @taxgirl, Jason Staats aka @ jstaatscpa, Andrea @andreacpa0 , Ed Zollars aka @edzollars, Glen Birnbaum 38 - So what really is an EA? Shoutout to Drake Software , KanyeTax, EasyACCT 42 - Adam’s horrible confession re: general ledger Shoutout to Intuit QuickBooks , Xero <
Thu, September 08, 2022
065 Making Accounting Sexy (feat. Lindsay Stevenson, CPA)
Episode 65 | Recorded March 14, 2022 (π day) Guest: Lindsay Stevenson, CPA, CGMA Hosts: Jason Ackerman and Scott Scarano Join Jason and Scott in getting to know more about Lindsay, BPM LLP ’s Chief Transformation Officer. What does that role do? We weren’t too sure ourselves until Lindsay gave us a glimpse of what she does. Listen to how she started out as a staff accountant until becoming an integral part of a large firm and how she was able to go through a midlife crisis in identifying what she really wanted to do with her career. Lindsay also shares her experience on how these big innovative changes happen at a large firm and how being a CPA makes you a “hot thang” that most businesses all over the country would want to work with. 0 Accounting can be sexy to young people 3 Chief Transformation Officer - the strategy behind being innovative, forward-thinking, and actually moving the needle so that we can get traction on all the cool ideas that our team has 4 Lindsays journey from a public accountant to Chief Transformation Officer Shoutout to Sarah Elliot, CPA, PCC , Brian Kush, PCC, CPA 8 What would a job look like for you?... And he said, let’s do it! Let’s do it at BPM Shoutout to Dan Griffiths 10 I was overwhelmed to think that there was just sort of this written rule about CPAs. You come into the profession, you put your head down, and you do your work. Then you keep doing that until you make partner. It just felt I wasn’t that 14 If your foundation is built on time and that billing structure, you can't just build something else on top of that. It's a shaky foundation 16 The real magic in my role is it’s really fun to think about the big things Shoutout to Apple 19 What you should care about the most is every client interaction and how to make that better 23 Lindsay’s and Jason’s POV on how small and large firms adapt and innovate their processes Shoutout to Thompson Reuters, CCH , Workday 27 When you become the big fish in the pond, there is less motivation to innovate 30 Is this due to the general mindset shift of the digital age or people being more open to sharing? Shoutout to Squadcast 34 Niche Accounting, the next big shift for the accounting space. Or have we already shifted into it? Shoutout to Tate Henshaw, CFP 39 What
Tue, September 06, 2022
064 Atomic Habits for Accountants, Pt 3: Practical Applications | #FreshBookReports Vol. 3
Episode 64 #FreshBookReports @ Accounting High (the miniseries) Recorded May 22, 2022 Still, with us today is Twyla Verhelst, CPA. Twyla is the distinguished director of the Accountant Channel and the FreshBooks Accounting Partner Program Leader. She supports and empowers other accounting professionals as they help small businesses flourish. Thank you to our sponsor, Freshbooks! Part 3 of 3 Atomic Habits: An Easy & Proven Way to Build Good Habits & Break Bad Ones by James Clear . Scott and Twlya conclude this mini-series by giving us their final take on the book. What are our key takeaways? How can we get back our lost identities or gain new ones? Finding that delicate balance as we muddle through everything. Come ride along as we finish this ride and get prepared for what else might come 0 - Don’t judge a book by its cover, or should we? 3 - Our genes (genetics) are related to our habits 5 - Identify yourself and know what’ll work for you 7 - CBE: Career Best Efforts, the real little things that compound over time 10 - When you can’t win by being better, you can win by being different Shoutout to Scott Adams , Zachary Call, CPA , Mike Michalowicz 13 - Measure what matters and improve on that 14 - Peak motivation: How do we get there? 17 - Finding the balance in getting there and not losing yourself Shoutout to Ron Baker 18 - Who knew sparkling water gives you variable rewards? 21 - We got your accounting and we’re not gonna judge, Accounting Vice! Shoutout to David Leary 22 - The downside of creating good habits 25 - Autopilot: not being as mindful or aware of your habits and how it becomes boredom 26 - Advantages of having an accountability buddy 30 - There’s always light at the end of the tunnel Shoutout to Nikole Mackenzie, CPA 32 - Why this book is being reread and how it’s been an instrument to reset or to check-in 35 - Success is not a goal to reach or a finish line to cross 36 - Lack of self-awareness is poison 39 - Self-control is difficult because it’s not satisfying 41 - Being curious is better than being smart 42 - Your actions reveal how badly you want something 45 - We can only be rational and logical after we have been emotional 48 - Capping of this mini-series, we hear what are Scott and Twyla’s final thoughts on it. Shoutout to Kenji Kuramoto 5
Bonus · Fri, September 02, 2022
#5minLy | 7 Accounting Firm MicroHabits
Season 3 BONUS | Recorded March 22, 2022 Welcome to the resurrection of the #5minLy We’re back for another chat and your regular dose of quick-and-easy information. Today, our hosts go through the 7 micro habits to be a better leader. Although short compared to our usual episodes, this ain’t short on helpful tips on how we can better mange our firm and our employees. Listen in for more… #5minLy is co-hosted by Michael Ly , an accounting and fintech entrepreneur whose exposure to the startup accounting ecosystems has given him insights into the opportunities around the data sitting in accounting systems 7 micro habits that’ll help you become a better leader at your firm Champion your employees’ professional development Be present in the moment Create a periodic performance review, and follow it up Be a coach Be a human Be honest Share the praise and encourage others to do the same Shoutout to Twyla Verhelst, CPA Karbon Earmark Xero Nikole Mackenzie, CPA Chewy
Wed, August 31, 2022
063 So Many Things to Learn (feat. Ed Mendlowitz, CPA)
Episode 63 | Recorded February 22, 2022 Guest: Edward Mendlowitz , CPA Hosts: Jason Ackerman, CPA and Scott Scarano, EA Sponsor: Dark Horse CPAs - visit abetterway.cpa to learn more Hosted by Scott and Jason, Ed shares the story of his accounting life. Not familiar with who Edward Mendlowitz is? He’s an accountant who has been in practice since 1974 and is now a Partner at Withum. This episode is a collection of stories about his practice and how he was able to adapt, innovate, and take on the challenges of the accounting space. Not a minute goes to waste as he shares his personal tips and tricks in running his business so be sure to give your 101% attention or you might miss the greatest tip you’ll ever need. 2 A lot of wisdom with Ed, none with Jason, and a little with Scott Shoutout to CPA Journal 4 Ed, a legit Sons of CPA: I wanted to be a CPA like my father 5 It seemed to me that my father was a very powerful person because he had all these people who couldn't make decisions without getting his advice 7 Ed has been fixed price billing even before it was the hype 14 You gotta just look for the cracks 16 I have to charge you for what I did and it's pretty high 17 I love accounting, believe me. I love it, but it's not a hobby, it's a business and I gotta make money from it 19 Any client that paid me a fee was a good client… the fact whether I liked them or didn't like them was not relevant. I did a great job for them, they appreciated it, and they paid me my fees 24 You don't wanna put your fortune, your life at risk by dealing with people that are dishonest or out there breaking the law. That’s stupid Shoutout to Ron Saharyan , Profit First Professionals 25 HOT STUFF!: How Ed made a big company not pay taxes for 7-8 years 30 Ed’s first partnership: Siegel Mendlowitz & Rich, PC Shoutout to Seymour G. Siegel, The Wall Street Journal 32 On to the next ones: Mendlowitz Weitsen LLP and Withum Smith + Brown, PC Shoutout to Peter Weitsen , Frank Boutillette , Withum , Paul Rich 35 You wanna grow, you gotta build infrastructure, you gotta do it right 37 If I could hold onto what I got, I'm never gonna do bad. I may not do great, but I'm never gonna do bad 40 You gotta give the salary that the peop
Bonus · Sun, August 28, 2022
#CPAliens (a parody of "ATLiens" by OutKast)
shout out to all my CPAliens, you know who you are... [Verse 1] It’s the accounting firm owner, podcaster, amateur rapper first time on the mic so listen close and hold your laughter so, what’s hotter than a million-dollar cloud firm, with low churn, there i go again, talking about myself, and track, indicators, to perform on this platform And now you ‘bout to see a southern EA reborn I said i’m not a public certified accountant and they say it’s not the tax you pay but what bracket you in You got mail? send electric or post-dated to the I-R Service Cause if we file a return that’s late, they all get nervous So go get your Panda signed docs, and listen close bitches the riches, come when you’re deeply penetrating niches scar-a-no got taxed but i’m here and still alive a felony for selling cocaine in two thousand five and now i thrive, took a nosedive, but didn’t go to prison i’ve said this all before, but i don’t think ya’ll even listen [Hook] Now toss your hands in the air And wave 'em like you’re in despair if your tax staff quits and you’re sick of this shit Then everybody let me hear you say No Fa-ir [Verse 2] fixed asset depreciation or study cost segregation For the property owner, and not the loaner let me know when it’s time for print toner If not I'll wait, because the future of the profession is gone If the children of CPAs gon' be a daughter or son Or are they the smartest regardless the platform they on? I feel that if we take a break, it might just start to be fun Or will they run out of funds and grab a p-p-p loan? They wanna consult us on leadership, and finding your Why Like Simon Sinek when you find it that’s a natural high Land of Ron Baker or an acre of a cloud in my sky Now banker, banker no more can I get Relay-Fi? [Verse 3] Foolish is how i act, but you know i ain’t no fool Thinking about how a Podcast about accounting can be cool? Like A-J to the E-S, cause we adjust the journal entries and Homie, i think i made it, but i’m not automated, finally ended client engagements that we tolerated And now I'm rapping on a track that OutKast created is it a Debit or a Credit? are balance sheet numbers killing you softly? intro the C-P-Aliens, and debit inventory So Sorry, as I trade Scarano to Earmark Found how to dismantle my anchor, and then depart Then turned the page, now everybody's trying to find their spark? A-R clerks stay serious even when they fart a facade of being hilarious Shakespeare with no fear protect vulnerable PCs but Macs are in the clear, okay? I wasn’t locked away, i got a longer rep in this endea
Mon, August 22, 2022
062 The Grandma of Cloud Accounting (feat. Rachel Fisch)
Episode 62 | Recorded March 7, 2022 Guest: Rachel Fisch Hosts: Jason Ackerman, CPA & Scott Scarano, EA Sponsor: Dark Horse CPAs - visit abetterway.cpa to learn more Welcome! Our guest today is the one, only and always Rachel Fisch. Rachel has over 20 years of experience in bookkeeping and accounting, with a number of those years running her own practice. She previously served as National Bookkeeping Lead for Deloitte and most recently was the Accountants Group Leader for Sage. She is also a dynamic speaker, and accounting vanguard, and presents at prestigious international conferences. 3 How Rachel got into accounting? Not intentionally ...? Shout out to Liz Mason and High Rock Accounting 5 The accounting trajectory Shout out to Winnipeg, Fisch Financial and FischBooks, AND FreshBooks 8 On NOT being lazy Shout out to John Garrett and Green Apple Slices 11 Best part of connecting with other accountants? Shout out to Accounting Salon 12 Mother Stories – Raising Adolescents 14 Rachel knows EV-ER-Y-BOD-Y! Shout out to Sage, QB, and Xero 16 The role at High Rock and in accounting – moving people forward 17 What challenges? 19 The Holy Grails of accounting Shout out to Hubdoc and Relay 21 Tax accounting in Canada Shout out to TaxCycle, Canada Revenue Agency 24 The implosion of a firm Shout out to the QuickBooks Training, QuickBooks Desktop, Peachtree, and Sage 50, Deloitte 30 Big Four bookkeeping foibles and mindset adjustments Shout out to MNP 34 Some woulda-coulda-shouldas when you’re being bought out 37 Spiraling up (and down) at Sage and landing at High Rock Shout out to Jay Kimmelman and Digital CPA, and Megan Tarnow, and Mobius 42 From both sides now ... balancing user feedback and product dev 45 Build, buy or partner? 46 High points of High Rocking 49 Scott Unchaperoned – What Sesame Street character would you be? Shout out to Grover, Big Bird, and The Count 51 What chess piece are you? (Rachel = Knight) 54 On being remembered ... Shout out to Liz Mason, Megan Tarnow, Chris Geno, and anyone who doesn’t know #TaxTwitter 62 Hackathon Talk Shout out to Earmark Accounting Podcast, Blake Oliver, David Leary, Peter Wen 64 Visions of a successful year Shout out to Rebel Rock Accounting Connect with Rachel: LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/rachelfisch/ Twitter: https://twitter.com/Fischbooks
Bonus · Fri, August 19, 2022
Friday Night Fights | QBO vs Xero: Round 1
To set the stage for our first cage match our first Friday Night Fight... Accounting High presents... QuickBooks Online versus Xero, the cage match. Round one nobody paid us for this product comparison it was recorded on January 19, 2022 In the Xero Corner, we have Zachary Call, CPA Partner & CPA at Weaver Call & House LC In the QuickBooks Online Corner, we have Michael Ly Fintech Entrepreneur | Cloud Accounting Executive | Online Bookkeeping | Speaker | Coach | Advisor and Paul Glantz, CPA Co-Founder and Director of Tax at Walker Glantz PLLC
Tue, August 16, 2022
061 Atomic Habits for Accountants, Pt. 2: The Four Laws | #FreshBookReports Vol. 2
Episode 61 #FreshBookReports @ Accounting High (the miniseries) Recorded March 4, 2022 Back with us today is Twyla Verhelst, CPA. Twyla is the distinguished director and leader of the FreshBooks Accounting Partner Program. She supports and empowers other accounting professionals as they help small businesses flourish. Thank you to our sponsor of this miniseries, Freshbooks! Atomic Habits for Accountants Part 2 of 3 Atomic Habits: An Easy & Proven Way to Build Good Habits & Break Bad Ones by James Clear . Whether you’ve read the book or you haven’t, this series of episodes will definitely open you up as to why it has been a favorite among our peers. Scott and Twyla give us an in depth look at what the four laws of behavioral change are and how we can use these laws to make or break our habits. Let’s hear how they applied these laws in their professional and personal affairs. Shoutout Dhruv & Vimal (vic) Bava, CPA 4 It's a great book, an easy read. It’s something that changes based on your perspective and worldview at the time Shoutout James Clear 8 1st law of behavioral change: Make It Obvious (Make It Invisible) 9 Scott shares a personal shift that he did in breaking a bad habit 12 Travel season: How can we keep up with our habits as we move away from our usual spaces 14 2nd law of behavioral change: Make it Attractive (Make It Unattractive) 15 Good habits can be very difficult to keep up with in the short-term 16 Ensuring that you do the things that are working towards your future self and where you’re going 18 Making “rewards” work towards our habit building Shoutout to LuluLemon & MeetUp 21 3rd law of behavioral change: Make It Easy (Make It Difficult) 23 When a habit get easy and it gets automatic, that’s when it gets Atomic 27 It’s finding the time for that action and making that action easier and automated 31 Make the bad habits difficult 34 4th law of behavioral change: Make It Satisfying (Make It Unsatisfying) 35 What is rewarded is repeated 36 Habit tracking is part of the rewards. It’s obvious, attractive, and satisfying. 39 What should we track? Scott gives us an example of how tracking habits became beneficial to his accounting firm 42 It’s better to do less than you hoped than to do nothing at all 44 Scott and Twyla wrap up the 2nd part of this series with the 4 laws of behavioral change, building good habits and breaking bad habits as follows: Building Good; make it obvious, attractive, easy, and satisfying Breaking Bad; making it invisible, unattractive, difficult, and unsatisfying
S3 E5 · Thu, August 11, 2022
#NiksTips on Poetry
This is Poetry 101 brought to you by Accounting High (aka Sons of CPAs) Sponsored by LiveFlow , be sure to give this episode a go, they can help you grow, check them out at liveflow.io get 20% off for 3 months with promo code SONS at checkout, go to liveflow.io/sons Your Hosts, Emcees, Poets Nikole Mackenzie, CPA aka Niks Scott Scarano aka Lil Toddler aka Slim Scotty aka Esquired (S²) aka OKR (OK Rapper) Let’s give it up for this presentation Your hosts share their poetic creations Sick verses brought out by their imagination What they do is entertain and impart education Purpose? Connect the individuals in this profession 4 Nikole shares her personal use cases for LiveFlow. Automation with an exclamation (point)! Go to liveflow.io/sons 6 cooler than a polar bear's toenails Shoutout to OutKast, Andre 3000, Big Boi, Lil Wayne 8 an accounting firm owner, podcaster, and rapper spits them bars! 12 A tribute to OutKast, Scott’s writing this rap, but not so fast Shoutout to Andre Nickatina, Simon Sinek , Ron Baker 15 I ain’t no fool thinking about how a podcast about accounting can be cool Shoutout to John Garret , Ignition 18 ready to explore and get paid Shoutout to Jason Ackerman, CPA, CFP, CGMA , Kenji Kuramoto 21 give it up for Niks as she throws down her sick licks Shoutout to Chewy , Greg Kyte , Earmark , Cloud Accounting Podcast , Reach Reporting 24 #CPAliens we’re doing things that are foreign to the industry as a whole Shoutout to Handwrytten , Ian Vacin , Karbon 29 This was written before I wrote it Shoutout to Blake Oliver, CPA , Lorilyn Wilson 31 The evolution of getting CPEs in the pres
Mon, August 08, 2022
060 The Accounting Game (feat. Chris Williams, CEO)
Episode 60 | Recorded February 22, 2022 Guest: Chris Williams, CEO of System Six Hosts: Nikole Mackenzie, CPA & Scott Scarano, EA Sponsor: Karbon - visit karbonhq.com to learn more Today, Scott and Niks are joined by Chris Williams, Owner/CEO of System Six, a 100%-remote outsourced accounting services firm. Before System Six, Chris served as an advisor to and investor in medium-large sized businesses. He’s worked for several fast growing companies, and holds a business degree from Stanford. 2 - Chris = Cool (surprise engagements, running the media circuit, hitting the links ...) Shout out to DWYT, Kenji Kuramoto 7 - How Chris’s finance background led to acquiring System Six Shoutout to Jeremy Allen 11 - Numbers talk – revenue, and cashflow, and EBITDA, oh my! 15 - Why cloud accounting is so hot right now 17 - The System Six biz model 18 - Opportunity in operations issues 22 - Why it’s okay to lose clients 24 - Chris is living his best life and he's wearing 10 different hats! 26 - Learning curves inside System Six 29 - Talking profit share, work/life balance, and staff shuffling 32 - Cash v. Accrual v. Tax – the pain-point discussion Shoutout to Tallyfor, Peter Wen and Michael Ly 37 - Should you switch to Karbon? Shoutout to Karbon 41 - All about cybersecurity – email, system backups, passwords, insurance, etc. Shout out to AWS, QBO, Azure 47 - Client conversions – should you, or shouldn’t you? Shoutout to Xero, Gusto, and Google 49 - Tech Tool Talk 51 - Grading clients – the red flags 53 - Chris’s parting words of wisdom Don’t forget to subscribe and leave us a review! Connect with Chris: LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/chris-williams-68057029/ System Six: https://systemsix.com/
Thu, August 04, 2022
059 (re)Pricing with Scotty & Nikole | #Varsity
Episode 59 | Recorded May 31, 2022 In this episode, your hosts Scott and Niks discuss repricing hows, whats, whens, and whys. Curious how other firms do it? Is your repricing strategy working? What value-added services do you think your clients would love? Come join us as we find out more about how we can reprice our services and make the whole process easier for your firm and your clients Thank you to our wonderful sponsor, LiveFlow... get 20% off for 3 months with promo code SONS at checkout, go to liveflow.io/sons 2 - Once you price, your job has just started Shoutout to OnPay , Katelyn Hockmeyer 3 - Pricing: the switch from hourly to fixed-fee billing 4 - (re)Pricing our fees to our clients as their business grows (and our firms too) Shoutout to Brandon Hall , Jason Staats, CPA, MBA 6 - Niks shares how her firm handles repricing Shoutout to Ashley Carroll 11 - How can we identify our clients and customize our service to their needs Shoutout to James Ashford 15 - Keeping things slow, steady, and natural Shoutout to Christopher Leon 17 - Repricing woes with our clients 18 - Even if you’re not charging more, you should still be adding more value over time Shoutout to Karbon , Ron Baker , Blake Oliver, CPA 22 - Will time tracking be a thing of the past due to Subscription-based billing? 26 - So either they're worried that they made too much or that they didn't make enough and they're shy. It's never just “here's my fucking numbers” 28 - It’s easier to sell to your existing clients than it is to get new clients 31 - If they could manage the relationship and they can manage the no's and yes's, and they understand the value that they’re bringing, that’s not chaotic at all Shoutout to Jeff Phillips, Shane Mason, and AJ 36 - Scott and Niks discuss pricing your clients based on a percentage of their revenue. Scaling with your clients as they grow Shoutout to Ferrari , TheraNest, TherapyNotes , Xero , QuickBooks 38 - The influence of influencers Shoutout to Jody Grunden 43 - How do you pick your niche? Shoutout to <a h
Mon, August 01, 2022
058 The Unique CPA is Bridging the Gap (feat. Randall J. Crabtree, CPA)
Episode 58 | Recorded February 21, 2022 Guest: Randall J. Crabtree, CPA (as per his CPA Certificate, but we're still not sure if "Jack" is spelled out, or if they just have the J) Hosts: Scott Scarano and Jason Ackerman, CPA, CFP, CGMA With us today is the Co-Founder and Partner of Tri-Merit , Randy Crabtree , who specializes in R&D Tax Credits, Cost Segregation, 179D, and 45LR. Also, host at The Unique CPA , a show where they go beyond compliance into forging new pathways of delivering value to clients, diversifying your revenue streams, and leading-edge management techniques and styles Today we get to hear about how going into niches and specialties make your firm better, or does it? Find out more as you listen and you’ll surely pick up a thing or two on how to best play on your strengths whether it’s on your personality or your skills. 2 Riches in R&D Niches: Randy shares how they started going deep into the niches they specialize in Shoutout to Andrew Lane 5 Don’t try to make yourself something you’re not 6 Ti-Merit’s transition from percentage-fees to fixed-fees but value-based 8 Holy cow! There's a big opportunity for taxpayers to save money with this, or put money back into businesses 10 Did you tweet your Waze drives? Cause Scott did, unintentionally... yikes! Shoutout to Waze , Twitter 11 #TaxTwitter 13 Having too much fun to realize if you’re working too much or too little 16 I wouldn't be surprised when $17MM is $35MM in just a couple of years Shoutout to Nicholas Pantaleo, CPA 19 Back at it again to the numbers game with Randy 20 Does your wife call you Randall? Do your parents call you Randall? 22 Randy on selling R&D study and Cost Seg: I never sell anything so I don't have a pitch. What I do is educate 23 Going deep into the R&D tax credit 30 Randy’s path into living the best life Shoutout to John Garret , Earmark 36 The Unique CPA podcast: How it started 39 Oh how the tables have turned: Jason on the numbers game this time! 40 Jumping from the generalist to the specialist 44 Randy’s best piece of advice? Don’t force a square peg into a round hole Shoutout to <a href="https://www.linkedin.com/in/jos
Wed, July 27, 2022
057 Atomic Habits for Accountants, Pt. 1: The Fundamentals | #FreshBookReports Vol. 1
Episode 57 #FreshBookReports @ Accounting High (the miniseries) - Part 1 | Recorded March 4, 2022 Sponsored by Freshbooks Please welcome our newest faculty member at Accounting High, Twyla Verhelst, CPA Twyla is the distinguished director of the Accountant Channel and leader of the FreshBooks Accounting Partner Program. She supports and empowers other accounting professionals as they help small businesses flourish. Atomic Habits: An Easy & Proven Way to Build Good Habits & Break Bad Ones by James Clear . Whether you’ve read the book or you haven’t, this series of episodes will definitely open you up as to why it has been a favorite among our peers. Hosted by Scott Scarano, we get to hear from him and Twyla about how it impacted them in their practice and life, in general. Atomic Habits for Accountants Part 1 of 3 2 This is a fresh take on a fresh book Shoutout F reshbooks 3 The accounting profession is full of people who are constantly looking for opportunities to improve and we’re no different Shoutout James Clear 6 I believe that you get what you need from a book at the time you read it, and some books are worthy of reading multiple times, for those books you are often rewarded in different ways each time you’re readying them. 8 Scott's dilemma, he's either all in on something or I'm all out of it, never in the middle 12 Every action you take is a vote for the type of person you wish to become 13 Systems and goals: If you’re focusing on the systems and processes then you’re more likely to achieve your goals. 16 You do not rise to the level of your goals. You fall to the level of your systems 21 When habits become automatic you may start to see some BIG shifts in your life, but it’s a buildup of A LOT of the LITTLE things Shoutout Eminem & Michael Jordan 23 Automatic and Automation: How they impact your profitability 26 Habits reduce cognitive load and free up mental capacity by making the fundamentals of life easier, you can create the mental space needed for free thinking and creativity 29 If you don't have to make a choice, you have a much better time with all of the other things, especially the big things 31 Self-talk: How it can help you become the person you want to be 34 When everybody becomes your friend, then you learn so much more 37 Becoming the person that you want to be, starts with changing the person that you are 38 Let’s hear how the Feedback Loop worked for Scott and his firm 40 Twyla talks about her Video Per Day Experiment #vpdexperiment 42 Scott and Twyla wrap up the first part of this miniseries, stay tuned for the next episode!
Bonus · Mon, July 25, 2022
#NiksTips on Promotions
NiksTips on Promotions, as in when do you promote your employees? and the systems around that... Thank you to our wonderful sponsor, LiveFlow... get 20% off for 3 months with promo code SONS at checkout, go to liveflow.io/sons Co-Host; Nikole Mackenzie, CPA. Niks helps agency owners save money, increase revenue, stay compliant, save time, eliminate stress, and ultimately give them the freedom to scale their recurring revenue businesses to a multimillion $ exit. What makes a good manager? What can and should you do if you want to be promoted? What are business owners factoring in when considering a promotion? Today, Scott and Niks give us a peek at how, as firm owners, they go through the process of promoting staff. 6 Let’s hear from Niks the use cases of LiveFlow at her firm and how it has helped them automate their work processes Big shoutout to LiveFlow 9 Sons of CPAs are like a box of chocolates, you never know what you’re going to get Shoutout to numbers grrrrrl 10 Start small but start big at the same time. Niks explains what this is about and how she goes about applying this in her firm Shoutout to 15Five 12 It’s really important for team members to know where they stand and to know where they need to go 15 Scott and Niks share their views on sharing your (financial) numbers (as a business) with your team Shoutout to Ashley Carroll 17 Scott and Niks question if salary should be based on employee location and how this is changing/adapting as more companies embrace remote work 19 Promotions based on tenure? 24 We discuss how business owners view promotions. What should we consider when promoting our staff? 27 Bring in people that are better than you 29 Promotions: Is it about the money or the title? 32 Scott shares insights on how staff accountability is handled at his firm Shoutout to Chris Leon , Matthew Meyer , Karbon 37 Net profit sharing vs Gross profit sharing Shoutout to Nick Sinclair , TOA Global 39 Salary being state-normalized to world-normalized Shoutout to Chad Davis 44 Communication, transparency, and metrics. What’s being factored in a promotion? 47 The nice part about having these salary ranges or just one salary for this position is you don't have
Wed, July 20, 2022
056 Making Accounting Scalable (feat. Matthew May, CPA)
Episode 56 | Recorded February 18, 2022 Today, we’ve got Eminem x 2 ... no, wait, M&Ms...and we’re going to let Matthew translate all things crypto, the Kenji plague, and his journey from employee to Tech CPA. Matthew May, CPA joined Acuity to translate accounting for entrepreneurs. He does this by helping navigate tax and accounting rules and speaking entrepreneur, not an accountant; now, most people want to chat him up about cryptocurrency and blockchain. Matthew also likes to volunteer in the Georgia technology community and serves on the board of the Atlanta Technology Angels. He’s also got a seat on the Venture Atlanta Advisory Board. Marcus Mire, our honorable repeat co-host, is an entrepreneurial CPA helping clients become more efficient using cloud accounting and proactive tax planning at his firm, MireGroup CPAs. 1 Eminem envy? 3 Matthew’s Before Shoutout Arthur Andersen, EY, Austin, Atlanta, and Kenji Kuramoto 5 Kenji and Matthew take over the world Shoutout Acuity, stupid multiples, and the Baylor Bears 7 Old v. New – which way works better in accounting? 9 On being the Fall Guy Shoutout KPMG, Deloitte, and EisnerAmper 11 Building the product that serves the underserved 13 Best part of escaping the Big Four 15 Building the change-management muscle Shoutout Tupac, Black Sabbath, Bowie, and anyone else who sings about change 17 Talking equity, profit sharing, and employee ownership models Shoutout Catching Clouds, Patti and Scott Scharf, and Lisa Gilreath, Acuity’s COO 21 80 years of marriage, the rules of drinking, and abstinence? 24 A tropical token story ... Shoutout BBI, St. Thomas, Ethereum, Bitcoin, Ivy Rose, and Blue Ivy 27 From the sidelines – Matthew’s crypto expertise, and why he doesn’t play Shoutout AICPA Engage, Xerocon San Diego, and Consensus 33 NFTs – what are they, really? Shoutout Budweiser, Drink While You Think, and Andy Warhol 38 Matthew’s killer stablecoin idea Shoutout U.S. Treasury, Tether 40 Name your price – what would entice Matthew to sell Acuity? Shoutout VerifyIQ, Super Bowl ads, and angel investing 43 Tech + CPA + Entrepreneur Shoutout Cherry Bekaert, Entrepreneurs' Organization 46 AAAlliteration Shoutout all the A-words, Ackerman (the Jason variety), and acronyms 48 Eggs, kegs, dope-ass tailgating, and bonding Shoutout Coley and JW 52 One is the loneliest number in entrepreneurism Shoutout EMINƎM, Proof, Matthew Meyer, AccountingWEB San Diego, XPAC (the Xero Partners Advisory Council), Scott’s imaginary publicist, the very real Gaynor Hardy, and Drip Blue Dream Matthew May, Founder, VP Sales and Marketing, Acuity LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/thetechcpa/ Tw
Bonus · Sun, July 17, 2022
A Refreshing Chat w/ Chad Davis @ Accounting High
here's a BONUS chat with Chad Davis... and a preview of what to expect from Accounting High (School) Welcome to Accounting High! In this episode, we get to know more about the whats and whys of Podcasting from Scott and Chad. They share and scrutinize the ideas of how their episodes of AutomationTown and Sons of CPAs (Accounting High) come to life. Hear how authenticity reflects on the product and why talking to people that are smarter than you is the smart thing to do 1 We all have to graduate middle school sometime, and the Sons are evolving. Evolution is what Accounting High is all about, the evolution of the accounting profession and making room for the next generation. Accounting High is the new school High School, but our listeners know that it's also a nod to getting high. I think in four years we'll be a bit more grown-up/mature and graduate... then we’ll change the name to "Accounting U" Shoutout to Yeti, Shure , Jason Staats 2 Let’s hear from Chad what was the driving force behind starting their podcast ( AutomationTown ) Shoutout to Paul O’Mara 4 You gotta be comfortable with doing some shitty stuff at first Shoutout to Zapier , Make (formerly Integromat) 6 Authenticity is hard to come by but it shows on what you’re producing Shoutout to Blake Oliver 9 This is for fun and something you can throw on while you’re at a barbeque Shoutout to Ignition 13 Chad hopes to reach people in positions that kind of hate the monotomous part of their jobs and they can take some inspiration from the actions that occur 17 People don’t agree with the way Chad sells accounting services, but he has a great relationship with the clients that come on board Shoutout to Xero 22 Podcasts: How can we market them to mainstream operations people? Shoutout to Expensify 24 Let’s find out what goes through Scott’s mind as he thinks about the future of Podcasting Shoutout to Nikole Mackenzie , Michael Ly, Jason Ackerman, Ron Baker , Peloton 29 What will differentiate Accounting High from Sons of CPAs Sho
Wed, July 13, 2022
055 Intentional by Nature (feat. Chad Davis, CPA)
Episode 55 | Recorded February 7, 2022 Guest: Chad Davis, CPA the Co-Founder of LiveCA and Co-Host of AutomationTown Hosts: Zachary Call and Scott Scarano Sponsor: Dark Horse CPAs - abetterway.cpa Listen in as we pick Chad’s brain, as there's no shortage of great information up there. How to be intentional and naturally solve problems. Manage a team of over 100ppl. Chad lives in an RV w/ his wife and two kids, down by the river. + what the hell is NO-CODE!? 3 Chad shares how he co-founded LiveCA with Josh Zweig back in 2013. ***Shoutout Josh Zweig , Xero , Will Lopez , and Freshbooks *** 5 Tech & Tax: Chad is the Tech as Josh is the Tax ***Shoutout Johnny McEvoy, Bill Kimball , Herschel Co ., Peter Wen , Ryan Lazanis , and Jason Staats *** 9 How Xero has been a bridge that connected all of us in this community. ***Shoutout Maria Phillips , Slack , Dave MacPherson , Donut app *** 13 Chad opens up about how the firm evolves as they add more team members ***Shoutout Baalkis Hassan , Tyler Bradley *** 19 How a 6-week trip turned into 4-years(and counting) on the road ***Shoutout Scout’s Barbershop , Kenji Kuramoto *** 23 Try traveling with your toilet, it’s insane! It’s so good! ***Shoutout outschool.com *** 29 Hiring process: Giving people a chance to test us out is more important than us testing them out ***Shoutout Teach:able , Videoask by Typeform , Trakstar , CloudAccountingJobs.com , Belay *** 38 Zachary asks Chad if they give potential clients the “try before you buy” experience ***Shoutout Bubble , Emily Spanik *** 44 NO-CODE and how Chad and Co were able to create their own tools ***Shoutout
Bonus · Mon, July 11, 2022
#NiksTips on PTO
PTO stands for Paid Time Off this is #NiksTips Bonus, Scott Scarano & Nikole Mackenzie take on choice topics (that start with the letter P) as it relates to running their professional accounting firms. Today's topic is PTO, where we discuss PTO and policies at our accounting firm. I don't know if it's cheating that we're doing an acronym for today's topic, just using the letter P as the P-word, but I guess now we're opening up the door to P-acronyms... We both have Unlimited PTO at our accounting firms. What's your PTO policy? But, for now, let's scope back out, Why this topic? Why PTO? Niks selected this topic today because recently she's been getting back into doing client work and she hasn't done client work in a long time. And so she's starting to feel the burn of what the team feels when they take any time off. Niks went on vacation for just one day and started to get text messages from clients and realized, "oh gosh, we don't have a system for when someone takes time off, I'm sure that when our team goes on vacation, they're getting text messages from clients, we're always so embedded in our client's business, and there's always payroll that needs to be run and invoicing and cashflow issues, how hard it must be for everyone to go on vacation or checkout. It's really challenging." So how do we structure a healthy PTO policy for our teams that doesn't disrupt the day-to-day needs and challenges of the business? What technology do we use? What are our processes so that we can actually allow our team to go on vacation, so we have this unlimited PTO policy, and we're trying to encourage people to go on vacation, but they're not going on vacation... how do we solve this?
Fri, July 08, 2022
054 Le Marie Tree, Oui! (feat. Marie Greene, CPA)
Episode 54 | Recorded February 7, 2022 Marie Phillips was named the Top 50 Women in Accounting by Ignition and is a cloud accounting industry leader. With over a decade of experience in accounting services, she provides process efficiency consultation for her clients to automate their businesses and personal lives better. She started Connected Accounting to be able to help more entrepreneurs, business owners, and individuals. Currently, her practice services: • Professional service firms (legal, wealth management, marketing, etc.) • Consumer product brands (manufacturing, e-Commerce) • Real estate management companies (commercial, multi-family units) • Franchises (hospitality, fitness) Additionally, she supports early-stage entrepreneurs in building the foundation of their businesses while offering an accountability partner throughout their growth. Through this work, she helped multiple clients transform their businesses from zero income to profitability. Marie’s entrepreneurship mindset came from launching Gursey Schneider LLP’s client accounting services’ (CAS) practice where she helped increase CAS revenue by minimum 40% each year and develop a team of 5. With her team, she serviced professional service firms, real estate, film production, family offices and high-net worth clients. Before her accounting consultant work, Marie was a financial analyst managing the profit and loss statements for two global brands: Forever 21, Inc. and PepsiCo. At Forever 21, she managed the consolidation of profit and loss statements of 550 stores worldwide. At PepsiCo, she led the national consolidation of the profit and loss statement and analysis of product lines. Marie's passion is rooted in her commitment to helping people reach their personal and professional goals — particularly within financial and accounting empowerment. Through this passion, she coaches people using accountability and strategic, organizational routines to help them visualize and plan their path to consistent success. She leverages technology and her organizational methods to help others save time by streamlining accounting processes and other time-consuming tasks. An avid learner and self-development enthusiast, Marie attends several conferences annually: Unleash the Power Within by Tony Robbins, DFK International Conferences on how to be a better leader (based on Patrick Lencioni’s books), meditation retreats, and of course accounting conferences — including her favorite, Xerocon.
Bonus · Mon, July 04, 2022
#CAShCrew | Creating Flexible Infrastructures
Hello, and welcome to our special bonus #CAShCrew series on Sons of CPAs with your host, Scott Scarano Today we're talking about creating flexible infrastructures in your accounting firm, with a very special guest Marie Phillips, CPA of Connected Accounting ... gotta have some buoyancy in your accounting firms The Ca$hCrew is connected with community, comradery, collaboration, and culture.... today's episode is brought to you by the letter C
Bonus · Fri, July 01, 2022
Acqui-hiring Accounting Avengers (feat. The GrowthLab FaaS)
Another special BONUS featuring some of our great friends at THE GrowthLab FaaS Today we're pleased to be joined by Heather Satterly, CPA and Steven Byler. Heather is the newly appointed CIO (Chief Innovation Officer) of The GrowthLab and co-host of the Appy Hour; Heather is also the Founder of Satterley Training & Consulting LLC, a firm dedicated to helping accounting professionals gain the skills and confidence to explore and adopt new accounting technology. Also the founder of Satterley Accounting Services, a bookkeeping, and tax firm located in Rhode Island, providing clients order, simplicity, and clarity in their financials. As well as the Co-Host of The 'Appy Hour with Liz and Heather, a bi-monthly webinar series dedicated to educating accounting professionals about the latest trends in accounting technology and automation techniques. Steven Byler is the President & Co-Founder of The GrowthLab, a Finance-as-a-Service (FaaS) company that serves Founders and Management Teams with Financial Planning, Accounting, and CFO support. GrowthLab specializes in helping startups, emerging growth companies, and companies in turnaround mode by providing leadership and execution with their financial management, accounting, and strategic planning functions.
Mon, June 27, 2022
053 ESPN: Entertainment & Sports Pros Niche (feat. Tate Henshaw, CFP)
Episode 53 | Recorded January 31, 2022 Today we're pleased to present you Mr. Tate Henshaw, CFP, who has run point on projects for Grammy winners, TV personalities, and NBA All-Stars. He's even been named as one of the top 40 accountants under 40 in the nation and one of the top 50 cloud accountants in North America. While he's enjoyed bringing confidence and consistency to his clients, his true passions lie in three areas: faith, family and music. We learn how Tate went from employee (team) to employer (coach), and talk about the hardest, most difficult, but best decision Tate’s made so far and where he and Arc Business Management go from here. 1 All about Tate, mostly since the middle of the pandemic, anyway ... ***Shout out to Xero*** 2 Going straight for the steak – Tate’s firm’s pricing and biz models – specializing in serving music, entertainment, and professional sports 7 The communication non-gap 10 The model client for Tate’s firm 12 Why the athletes, influencers, and stars need financial assistance of the accounting kind 15 Relationship building by extracting deers from lakes ... 19 The Four Qs – gross revenue, employee count, gross margin, and year-end analysis 22 How did Tate make the jump? ***Shout out to Lorne Clark, and Polay, Clark, and Co.*** 24 Rooms with elephants 26 The hardest, most difficult, best decision Tate made 29 Woulda-coulda-shouldas and other learning from starting a firm ***Shout out to Liz Mason*** 32 From coworker to boss – how it changes a relationship 35 Marketing Etiquette 101 – Permissions ***Shout out to Blake Griffin, XPAC, Edward Norton, Eric Church, Zach Galifianakis, Chris Farley*** 38 ARC’s big picture view ***Shout out to Richard Branson, Venus Williams, Paris Hilton*** 41 All about the best swag and the deductibility of breast implants ***Shout out to Chesty Love*** 44 Tate’s parting advice – bet on yourself, and keep your employees happy Find Tate here: Website: ARCmgmt.co Twitter: https://twitter.com/arcbusinessmgmt Tate’s personal Twitter: https://twitter.com/str8t814 LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/tatehenshaw/
Bonus · Sat, June 25, 2022
#NiksTips+ on Partying
Accounting Conference Season 2022 is in full force, and our hosts are certainly well qualified in that arena, as of early June our hosts have been to a combined total of 18 different accounting conferences... aka partying Thank you to our wonderful sponsor, LiveFlow, and get 20% off for 3 months with promo code SONS Check em out at liveflow.io/sons Life is just one big party, if you approach it with style and grace… Today we’re pleased to participate in this podcast with our pal Kenji Kuramoto in another plus version of NiksTips Shout out to Ryan Lazanis and Heather Smith There’s a silent majority of people out there that don’t particularly like conferences and we’re here to shine some light on the benefits of going to some of these events, especially with XeroCon 2022 on the horizon in NOLA Shout out to Earmark and Blake Oliver Shout out to Shelly Lingor, Will Lopez, Jamie Shulman and Jamie McDonald Shout out to Amanda Aguillard and Dave Emmerman NiksTips When you sign up for a conference create a “burner” email Shout out to Josh Lance at Ignition and Twyla Verhelst at FreshBooks Shout out to Justin Hatch at Reach Reporting and Will Lopez at Gusto and Scott Scharf and Patti Scharf, Keri Gohman, Steve Vamos, Matthew May, Nicole Davis, Jason Ackerman, Greg Kyte Check out AccountingConferences.com shout out to David Leary Thank you listeners for making it this far. We appreciate you. Please leave us a review Apple Podcasts because 60% of you are listening on Apple. So please go on there and write something. And I promise you, I will read it. if you want Nikole to read it, she will, or if you want Kenji to read it, he'll come on another “Plus” one…and you can say any single thing you want. We will say it on air. (Only if you leave a five star, if you leave a four star review we’re going to leave a few words off) Thank you listeners we love you. And tap 5 stars if you’re on Spotify!
Fri, June 10, 2022
052 The Ambivert (feat. Greg Kyte, CPA)
Episode 52 | Recorded January 24, 2022 thank you to our supporters this week! Amaka.com On today’s episode, Scott and Zach tackle the tough subjects, such as staying sober, dressing up, touching knees, Mormon mentioning, subtle jabs, and more with the very special self-proclaimed cartoonist, MC, CPE presenter, standup comedian, comptroller, podcast host, fry-sauce connoisseur, and master of all thing CPE comedy Greg Kyte. *A little tongue-twisting talk on The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints, choirs, and context *On being the son of a wool-monger and grandson of a Boeing financial forecaster, and Greg’s angelic childhood demeanor *How Greg made it from middle-school math teacher to CPA by way of a summer job and standup *Resolving Scott’s need for attention... without chopsticks *About Greg’s work ethic, and integrity and what really drives him – the fear of failure *Living life as an ambivert *The art of cartooning *Greg’s history of podcasting *Pricing shaming *Investment strategy turned life plan: 85% security, 15% crapshoots *Barbells, Speedos, and tigers – oh my! *Freedom and Free CPE with Oh My Fraud! (Now with 11 episodes to hear!) *Fry sauce matters – two parts mayo, one part ketchup, catsup, or however you spell it where you live ... Check out Greg’s toons: https://www.instagram.com/exposuredrafts/ Listen to Oh My Fraud: https://ohmyfraud.com/ Talk to Greg: https://www.linkedin.com/in/gregkyte/ Get your UT Fry Sauce merch here: https://utfrysauce.com/ A Thrivecast discussion on perfecting niches: https://thriveal.com/resources/podcast-episode/niches-bring-stitches-and-an-interview-with-jason-blumer/ The Black Swan: The Impact of the Highly Improbable https://amzn.to/3NnMcf6 Antifragile: Things That Gain from Disorder https://amzn.to/3MfBGoV Shout out to that church with all the words, that choir that got renamed, that place that makes The Dude’s cardigan, Pendleton, The Journal of Accountancy, monkey bars, Oprah, Men at Work, The Police, all the children of the ‘80s, Gusto, teleprompters, Oh My Fraud!, Venn diagrams, Gary Larson, Scott Adams, Dilbert, Caleb Newquist, The Far Side, Going Concern, Rubik Yeriazarian and RuBook Creative, EY, Divvy, the law of attraction, Jason Blumer, Thrivecast, Tom Hood, Accounting Today, Nassim Nicholas Taleb, Sam's No. 3
Bonus · Wed, June 01, 2022
#NiksTips on Projects
thank you to our supporters this week, Amaka, the gold standard in accounting automation and integrations, visit amaka.com Do you take on projects at your accounting firm? most accounting firms i talk to nowadays don't really want to take on projects... tbh, we're kind of scared of projects. Sometimes I'm so scared to price them. I'm scared that they're going to be the wrong project and take too much time. And then it's all everybody's talking about at the firm is this client with this big project and we're still not done with it, and it's been seven months... So let's define a project. when I say people don't want to take on projects, what am I referring to? I think of a project as something that is not going to be recurring or unlikely to be recurring.... So for example, someone comes to you and they want to sell their business and they need three or five years of financials recreate it and then possibly help them through due diligence. And then they're gone so huge spike in work, but potentially if you price it right, you can make a lot of money...
Sun, May 29, 2022
051 Numbers and Love Letters (feat. Shane Mason, CPA/PFS, CFP, CPWA)
Episode 51 | Recorded January 24, 2022 In this episode, Jason and Scott are joined by Shane Mason, CPA/PFS, CFP®, CPWA® to talk about mustaches, method acting, and the mastery of the myriad letters behind his name. * The obsession with credentials * Shane’s accounting adventure – from education to letter collecting * Nish? Neetch? Nitching? Niched? (We still aren’t sure) * Moving from PwC to NY via sailboat * Racing towards a self-sustaining business * On being necessary * Why investment advising intimidates * Behavior = ROI * Sampling workflows – what worked, what didn’t * Pricing – how Brooklyn FI makes it work (hint: no tracking time) * Navigating the market crapshoot * One time on a podcast ... Shane met AJ * Why firing sucks but why it can be a necessity * On using LinkedIn Recruiter * Why Brooklyn FI fired clients * Scott says lead with your knees, no ... Niche! * The hard question – defining FI * Circling around the “Net” question * Tooth Fairy economics * Evaluating and managing PITA margins * Brooklyn FI’s build of equity compensation analysis software * Looking ahead * Shane’s advice – partner power Visit Shane here: https://www.linkedin.com/in/shanemasoncpacfp Check out The Liquidity Event podcast a listen here: https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/the-liquidity-event/id1576748996 Shout outs: Ole Miss, Clemson, Mississippi, faceless porn stars, Brooklyn FI, PwC Austin, Mason Tax, Jetpack Workflow, TaxDome, Karbon, Jason+, Ackerman+, Apple, Tate Henshaw, Palantir, Moneysplained, Lacerte, Charlotte, The Outsourced Accountant, Ignition, Traction, XY Planning Network, Ryan Lazanis, Future Firm, and all you other fabulous people we failed to mention!
Bonus · Wed, May 25, 2022
#NiksTips on Perfectionism
thank you LiveFlow, visit liveflow.io/sons and get 20% off for 3 months with promo code SONS Niks breaks down perfectionism in an accounting firm... Perfectionism is often defined as the need to be or appear to be perfect, even to believe that it's possible to achieve perfection. It is typically viewed as a positive trait rather than a flaw. People may use the term healthy perfectionism to describe or justify perfectionist behavior. if you're a perfectionist, I don't think that you should run a business when I think of perfectionism, I also think of delegation because people who are perfectionists can't delegate, but I see you as the ultimate delegator because you basically have somebody else running your business I wouldn't call myself a perfectionist, but I'd like things done, right. If I know. If it doesn't get done, right. It's going to create problems later. I'm a big fan of a one-way workflow know your weaknesses, know your strengths. but then also, you know, while you're doing something always know that there's room for improvement and that you don't already have something that is perfect. Expect your systems to always need to be improved upon. this way you leave room for margin of error and for improvement
Mon, May 23, 2022
050 Ignition [Remix] (feat. Guy Pearson, CEO)
Episode 50 | Recorded January 21, 2022 Today, we’re talking about the Artist Formerly Known as π (PI) … Guy Pearson, CEO of Ignition, about all the personal and professional goings-on in his world – marriage, funding rounds, rebranding, moving, and achieving a puppy, and what's ahead for Ignition. Visit Ignition: https://www.ignitionapp.com/ Connect with Guy: https://www.linkedin.com/in/guypearson1/?originalSubdomain=au What's on the menu: Haircuts – or the lack thereof Why the rebranding? Anatomy of a firm – Karbon is the skeleton; Ignition is the heart; the blood is Xero and Gusto; the fingers are Digits; the eyes are LivePlan... How Ignition helps firms move toward advisory No more “P” swag ... Ignition – The professional-services Airbnb The Canadian component Integrations – Xero, Gusto, Karbon, and more GoProposal v. Ignition = More Feature Updates? On being an extroverted introvert, and extroverted entrepreneur Guy’s growing pains * No Fyre Festivals here! All about the Series C, other funding rounds, and cleaning house Uniforms of choice – Shorts, T-shirts, and Hawaiian shirts The real reason for Ignition – People Round pegs, square holes, and staying true Annihilating scope creep and sticker shock What Guy misses about running a firm Reading: The Starfish and the Spider: The Unstoppable Power of Leaderless Organizations https://amzn.to/39MfsNC Shout out to Ignition, Michael Ly, Josh Lance, Blake Oliver, Talbot Sayer, John Lennon, Eddie Vedder, Ignition’s design and marketing teams, Gusto, Thomson Reuters, Intuit, Xero, Zapier, James Ashford, Richard Branson, Jeff Bezos, Tiger Global, EVP, LivePlan, Jirav and all who we appreciate but may have failed to mention here!
Bonus · Wed, May 18, 2022
Hard Numbers | The Sons Year-In-Review
BONUS to Season 2 Episode 17 Thanks to our sponsor, BooksTime! Visit bookstime.com/accountants We’ve got a bonus ep today – Happy One-Year-iversary to Sons of CPAs! Today, we’re going to review our firms to see what went right, wrong, or other, and what we’re going to change. this is the first solo "Scott + Ackerman" episode since Season 1 Episode 1 ... get ready for some time shits * Defining our firms’ successes * Hard numbers for Scarano * Scott’s fear of decisions and making them * Stepping away from the day-to-day * Being an artist trapped in an accountant’s body * When to prune the growth mindset * Jason is hesitantly happy with where his firm is at * The main focus is client service/satisfaction * Factoring opportunity costs – mundane tasks v. upping services * Hard numbers for Ackerman * The cadence of meetings * The aftermath of COVID on firm culture * How BNA is encouraging non-mandatory team building * Jason’s personal goal is delegation * Processes for consistency rather than efficiency * Can people be managed? * Scott’s goal – Let it go Don’t forget to check out Earmark CPE (earmarkcpe.com) to get free CPE credit for listening to podcasts like this one! Shout Outs: Chris Leon, Matthew Meyer, and the rest of Scott's Padgett team, Jason’s Dad, Lorin, and the rest of Ackerman's BNA team, Xero, Ron Baker, Timeshits, LivePlan and anyone else we mentioned but forgot to mention here!
Sun, May 15, 2022
049 The Art & Soul of Accounting (feat. Ron Baker, CPA)
Episode 50 | Recorded January 17, 2022 this episode is sponsored by Xero. beautiful business. The Sons are honored and privileged to have THE Ron Baker on our podcast today. Scott can now drop his mic and slowly back away. Getting into the “spirit” of things, Ron talks about the real soul of enterprise, the spiritual v. physical, why timesheets are not useful, how Ron found his footing in the CPA world, and his grand unifying theory of everything. * The four defenses of timesheets – except for “The Lord doesn’t want me to throw them out ...” * CPAs are just historians with really shitty memories. * Better measures – turnaround time, keeping promises, HSDs, the NPS and value gaps * The three KPIs of every major airline in the world, except North Korea’s * Why Ron thinks airlines have gone too far with their nickel-and-diming * The awesomeness of being first in line * How CPA firms can be better pricers * How to replace timesheets * Flipping the script – measure the customer * Relationships aren’t efficient – they either grow or die * To be innovative is the antithesis of efficiency * The sin of running a firm at full capacity * The birth of fixed pricing c. 1989 * Scientism (not related to Scientology ...) * Why are futurists charlatans? * Refining your client-selection criteria * Riches are in the nitches, bitches! * Satisficing – the art of doing “good enough” * Next time – subscriptions! Check out Ron’s latest tome: Implementing Value Pricing: A Radical Business Model for Professional Firms https://amzn.to/39Pfe8y Listen to The Soul of Enterprise - https://www.thesoulofenterprise.com/ Shoutouts – Thomas Sowell, George Gilder, and “The Spirit of Enterprise,” Joshua Bell, Benjamin Franklin, Toyota, Frederick Winslow Taylor, Coincident indicators, FedEx, Amazon, Apple, Disney, Reginald Heber Smith, Google stuff, all of it, Kabuki, McDonald’s uniforms, Hydras, Socrates, Columbo, Paul Kennedy, and O'Byrne and Kennedy, Charlie Brown, Snoopy, Linus, Pisenti & Brinker, Sparky, Ed Kless, Harvard Business Review, all the non-Zuckerberg, non-Bezos, and non-Branson types, Jody Padar, and everyone else we forgot to mention! Time Shits - https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=u8RSBwSGlp8
Bonus · Fri, May 13, 2022
The Unique CPA Presents - The Vaporware Show (feat. Scott Scarano, EA)
BONUS - Rebroadcast of Episode 65 of The Unique CPA ...and it is “pure vaporware” Randy and Scott have a great time talking about everything under the sun, from beer and other methods of “relaxation,” to one of the key tenets of The Unique CPA : The changing face of public accounting, which also happens to be a heavy focus of this show. Check out The Unique CPA Podcast at https://tri-merit.com/podcasts/ About the Guest Scott Scarano is the Owner and President of Padgett Business Services of Raleigh-Durham. He founded the Sons of CPAs podcast in 2021. Scott’s “Why” is empowering all growth-minded entrepreneurs in his reach to thrive and prosper by approaching problems from a different perspective and analyzing solutions. Scott earned his B.B.A. in Accounting from Campbell University, graduating Summa Cum Laude. Upon graduation, he spent several years working as a staff accountant at local CPA firms in Durham, NC, when Scott discovered his passion for working with small businesses. He is a licensed Enrolled Agent and a certified QuickBooks ProAdvisor. Meet the Host Randy Crabtree, CPA co-founder and partner of Tri-Merit Specialty Tax Professionals , is a widely followed author, lecturer and podcast host for the accounting profession. Schaumberg, Illinois-based Tri-Merit is a niche professional services firm that specializes in helping CPAs and their clients benefit from R&D tax credits, cost segregation, the energy efficient commercial buildings deduction (179D), the energy efficient home credit (45L) and the employee retention credit (ERC). Prior to joining Tri-Merit, Crabtree was managing partner of a CPA firm in the greater Chicago area. He has more than 30 years of public accounting and tax consulting experience in a wide variety of industries, and has worked closely with top executives to help them optimize their tax planning strategies. all the shout outs Randy Crabtree, Nikole Mackenzie, John Garrett, Josh Lance, Kristen Keats, Terrell Turner, Blake Oliver, Jason Ackerman, Xero, Liz Mason, High Rock, Lil Wayne, GKUA, Byron Patrick, Botkeeper, Padgett, Jeff Phillips, Amanda Aguillard, Ignition, GoProposal, James Ashford, Ron Baker, Mike Michalowicz, Jody Grunden, Acuity, Matthew May, Kenji Kuramoto, Scott Scharf, Patti Scharf Important Links Sons of CPAs on Apple and Spotify Scott Scarano on Twitter Scott Scarano on LinkedIn
Bonus · Fri, May 06, 2022
#NiksTips on Products (feat. LiveFlow)
liveflow.io/sons get 20% off for 3 months with promo code SONS welcome to the first of many in our Product series… this isn’t an ad, maybe you can call it an infomercial… but we call it #NiksTips on Products shout out to all our AVPs (app vendor partners)
Sat, April 30, 2022
048 #StaatSnacks | The Jason.CPA Experience
Episode 48 You bring the snacks; Jason’s got the Staats ... and the experience to talk about creativity, community, and life in the CPA world. Over the past some years, In addition to YouTube stardom, Jason has been a staff accountant, tax preparer, principal at Brenner & Company LLP, and is a member of the Gusto Partner Advisory Council. ... there's a post-easter egg at the 45min mark #CPAliens In today’s ep, we’re talking: *#TaxTwitter – what it is, and why it’s a hit (hint: community) – and Jason’s takeaway: you’ll always have more to gain by sharing your knowledge than by sitting on it. *The History of Jason – from one-man garage accountant to finding his people and growing a community that blows the doors off the old ‘what’s mine is mine’ mindset. *Jason’s creative process behind his Jason.CPA YouTube magic. Does he really want to move beyond his own little corner of the accounting world? *On book writings – Jason’s focused on writing what he knows. Working title: A Field Manual to Navigating Legacy Accountants. * scott scarano, ea 🥶😈 search for the real meaning of “Why,” and his platform. Maybe it’s rap? He’s got the title – #CPAliens. *Jason’s words of wisdom on the socials: - Define what you want to get out of it - Find your community by adding value to other peoples’ conversations *Firm Goals - Reduce the number of clients - Maintain profitability with fewer clients by raising prices - Step away from the partner-led model - Team-first approach *Building the Bench Accounting partnership. Why Bench over other options? Short answer: Long-haul reliability *Jason throws tools – Scribe , Airtable v. Excel? All the shout outs: Earmark , Blake Oliver, CPA #TaxTwitter, Intuit , Intuit Mailchimp , Drew Carrick FloQast Zapier , Sandwich , Adam Lisagor , ElectroNeek , Donna Bordeaux , <a href="https:/
Sun, April 24, 2022
047 The Model Cloud Accounting Firm (feat. Jody Grunden, CPA)
Episode 47 | Recorded January 10, 2022 Today we’ll learn about Jody Grunden’s CPA journey and how his firm went from $0 in 2002 to $9 million plus in 2022. By taking the non-traditional route in accounting – combining vision and integration to form a biz model that really, really works - Summit CPA Group is a shining example what TO do! shout out to our sponsors this week; Xero and Gusto's People Advisory Accelerator, go to gusto.com/training and type in the code sons100 for $349 off Meet Jody: LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/jodygrunden/ Jody is not the son of a CPA, but he’s the first person in his family to go to college. Why Summit CPA Group is different: Dress code Killing overtime for the entire team eradicating the hourly billing model Figuring out what the clients want Why forecasting is key – go forward, not back Defining the why and when of meetings – forecasting, pipeline, rev-rec, and the floater How the fixed-fee model nearly tanked Summit Why Summit CPA Group has no accounts receivable Form and function – explaining the Summit “pods” and their processes The Wow factor – not charging more for unexpected issues, such as PPP Setting, managing, and exceeding expectations – just do it! The Summit CPA niche – creative agencies over $1m in revenue What’s the next step in the evolution? The 2FA (or 3) of scaling pricing – revenue, employee count, and industry Giving clients the Carvana experience Why soft skills matter at Summit Talking compensation What did Jody learn while he was growing the practice? Figuring out your pricing model is the #1 priority Making the Summit model the new normal Check out Summit’s free CPE webinars here: https://www.summitcpa.net/cpe-webinars or get the Virtual CFO Playbook here: https://www.summitcpa.net/vcfo-playbook Why Summit used cartoons to set themselves apart Shout-out to Indiana University, Darren Root, and Rootworks, Crowe, BKD, Summit CPA Group, Adam Hale, Netflix, The Summit City (Fort Wayne, IN), DCPA
Bonus · Tue, April 19, 2022
#NiksTips on Productivity
shout out to EMINƎM https://youtu.be/_kQBVneC30o One of Niks Core Values at Momentum is GSD, Get Shit Done. Core Values defined, are a set of fundamental beliefs, ideals or practices that inform how you conduct your life, both personally and professionally . Businesses can also have and maintain core values. These can help an organization determine how to allocate resources, make important decisions and grow. sometimes you're so involved in to what you do on a day-to-day basis that you don't realize that over the years you've actually created pretty good systems we encourage you and your team to meet your clients once a month and you can reduce the amount of email clutter back and forth, force them to have meetings with you “Forced to Face your Finances on Focus Fridays” Productivity Tip, in client meetings always notes, and always have action items shout out to Loom, get comfortable with video and asynchronously sending information via video vs sending emails… there is more context and it’s more efficient and effective form of communication … shout out to Earmark, Blake and Zach Frank NiksTips #1 Asynchronous Communication Tools that we use; Google Calendar, Google Docs, Loom, HubSpot, Karbon, DialPad, Slack, 15five, TypeForm, Calendly, Notion NiksTips #2 Manage External Communication and get your clients to meet you “where you’re at” and use the same tools that your firm is using and EVERYONE will be more productive NiksTips #3 “Avoid learning while you’re working” have a core app stack so you don’t have to always learn something new with each client - find contractors or specialists for complex work NiksTips #4 “Find Repeatable Shortcuts” such as making rules in Xero, email templates for common answers, and using folders in your google chrome browser NiksTips #5 “leverage resources and push down work” like using VA and interns. Find an intern to pull your bank statements, if you could pay someone $15 an hour and it takes them 10 hours, like $150 a month… might be cheaper than that RPA you’re trying to build NiksTips #6 “meeting and meeting cadence and agenda” NiksTips #7 “manage your energy” niks is a really good napper, she can take great 12min naps… and a great way to be productive is just don’t answer your phone, don’t even work with your phone in the same room shout out to Zuni and Michael Ly
Sun, April 10, 2022
046 Melissa McCarthy for Accounting Professionals (feat. Dawn Brolin, CPA)
Episode 46 | Recorded January 3, 2022 Dawn Brolin, a self-proclaimed number-splatter expert, has a heart of gold, but she’s also the hammer. She’s about providing the most effective service possible. If clients won’t hold up their end of the bargain, she’s not afraid to fire them. • Dawn's penned two books, The Designated Motivator and The Designated Motivator for Accountants • What’s nice v. kind? • Shout out to all you New Englanders! We love you! We really do! We will not F*&% with you! • What’s the difference between an accountant and a sex worker on TikTok? Go ahead, guess ..! • Future goals – succession planning. Dawn’s planning on nine more years, and her tech stack is the key to her exit! • Why firms should definitely have a PIA fee • Competition v. Collaboration What’s most important is the way clients treat her, and her staff. You can use your established processes to A) get the information you need, but also B) to figure out which clients have their shit together. Pricing – what works best for you and your firm? Dawn, Scott and Jason talk about the pain points, and best practices for pricing your services. Also, we’ll talk about how Dawn took some negative assessments of herself and used them to fuel her talent and even appearance. What do you do when someone tells you that you won’t ever be able to do something? You do it! What do you do when someone hands you personal “feedback”? First of all, be YOU. Then, take what’s useful from that feedback, and make it your own! The most amazing things happen when you take off the reins and run! Dawn also shares how babysitting staff annihilates her soul and who you need to find to make everything run smoothly. You need runners – the people who are going to keep up with you, the people who want to learn, and the people who aren’t afraid to help you! Measuring success, to Dawn, is about getting the work done. It means having the time to live a real-life, and not be tied to that to work 24/7. She follows a lot of the principles from Mike Michalowicz’s book, “Profit First” and shares a bit of useful information on your own money methodology. App and other special shout outs: Ignition, Ron Saharyan, Profit First Professionals- It's your business. Shouldn't your profit come first? Anderson Brolin & Coba CPAs, LLC Lacerte Software Corporation, 🚀 Liz Mason, Dawn’s website – dawnbrolin.com, Gaynor Hardy (Meilke), MS, CBC, CTC Charisma Ink, abuser-friendly Intuit QuickBooks, Ron Baker, Relay Financial, Joseph Scarano, FloQast Studios, Bill Burnett and Dave Evans CLO bullet-proof vests, Hazmat suits, body bags, Rick and Morty, Lil Wayne, Sandra Bullock, Gwyneth Paltrow, Katherine Heigl, Knocked Up, and Waze
Bonus · Tue, April 05, 2022
#NiksTips on Productization
Productization definition from Investopedia: The process of developing or altering a process idea, skill or service to make it marketable for sale to the public. Productized services can also be packaged and offered as subscription-based services. shout out to our sponsor this week, Gusto to learn more about Productizing Advisory, check out Gusto’s people advisory training and get certified at gusto.com/training and type in the code SONS100 at checkout to receive $349 off your training!! the Acronym we’re using to Productize Advisory today is CPA C for Cadence P for Process A for Agenda the steps to productize your services: Step #1, find a recurring problem or need that you're constantly seeing from your customers. Step #2 develop a solution to the problem Step #3 create a system that is repeatable and can be taught to others Step #4 train others on the system Step #5 deliver the services, get feedback, and continue to improve. Fixed fee pricing and how that's now becoming more normal for our industry has forced us to productize our services when someone's paying for something, you have to deliver a set of services each month. Cadence is one of the most important parts of productization, and there's gotta be an agenda, and there has to be a system and an approval process that can be taught shout out to GrowthLab, Dan Gertrudes, Steven Bylar, Heather Satterly, Korey shout out to LivePlan for productizing the delivery of forecasting shout out to all the Excel Jockey’s and Peter Wen and TallyFor shout out to Niks, Kenji, Josh Lance, and Michael Ly, and of course your teacher Jacklyn Anku shout out to EO and Scaling Up and Verne Harnish and EOS and Traction and Geno Wickman
Mon, April 04, 2022
045 It’s Always Sunny in Maryland (feat. Byron Patrick, CPA)
Episode 45 | Recorded January 3, 2022 Shout out to our sponsors; Clockwork.ai and Botkeeper Alright, alright, alright ... This week, we’re talking to the Matthew McConaughey of Accounting, it's Byron Patrick, CPA. Byron’s career started with a cool-ass high-school accounting teacher shout out to HeimLantz CPA, F. Carter Heim and Thomas J. Lantz Byron has branded himself, literally, with a CPA tattoo You can’t talk about the Maryland Association of CPAs without talking about Tom Hood, and the AICPA, and Kimberly Ellison-Taylor and Anoop N. Mehta, CPA, CGMA Shout out to all of our listeners in Washington, VA ... we love you. Hiring TIP – It’s not the question; it’s the person answering it! The benefits of hanging out in the hallway (or being an industry rat) Simplified Innovations was the Citrix partner of the year; as Byron puts it, a Great f&%king company, but bad biz partner decision Woulda, shoulda, coulda – the things Byron would do differently with a second chance... and The Botkeeper experience, Shout out to Jody Padar, and Enrico Palmerino! and all the rest of the apps and people shout outs; Scott Scharf, Spark Hire, CCH ProSystem, Lacerte, QuickBooks, Right Networks, Brannon Poe, Liz Mason, Xero, Relay, Pilot, Bill.com , Expensify, FloQast Studios, PBC, Twyla Verhelst, Ed Mendlowitz, Gusto, FieldGuide, Jin Chang, and Marc Montpas
Bonus · Wed, March 30, 2022
#NiksTips on Positioning
shout out to our sponsors this week: Xero ... the Sons of CPAs love Xero, if you couldn't tell Gusto’s People Advisory Training… go to gusto.com/training and enter Code Sons100 at checkout and you’ll get $349 off and some CPE! in this episode, we talk about positioning yourself and your accounting firm in the market #NiksTips for a good Positioning Statement identifying who you want to work with, who do you help? what makes you different, how you can help those clients, what pain points you’re solving, what is the emotional payoff for the customer shout outs: EarmarkCPE, cloud accounting podcast, Blake Oliver and David Leary, BNACPA.com , Jason Ackerman, Padgettnc.com/team , Rlz.io , Jason Staats ... and stay tuned for some #StaatSnacks and #CPAliens
Sun, March 27, 2022
044 It's All Love at Work at Home and on #TaxTwitter (feat. @wifemomCPA100 & JW Davis)
Episode 44 | Recorded December 31, 2021 shout out to our sponsors Botkeeper is giving away a free year of bookkeeping, up to $20k, enter for a chance to win here! https://www.botkeeper.com/win Clockwork.ai … check it out for a shot at $100 this week we have on the power couple, Nicole Davis, CPA and J W Davis ... founders of Butler-Davis Tax & Accounting, LLC based out of Atlanta, GA In this episode we talk about: • the dynamics and logistics of successfully living and working with your spouse • balancing a digital presence with 5 kids • the hard numbers • different ways to approach growth at your accounting firm • chess Advice for Spouses working together from J W Davis "my suggestion would be to define your roles. So that way there is no confusion on who does what...and don't sweat the small stuff...you know, we're around each other all the time...you gotta just have fun, play with each other. We joke a lot... you just got to enjoy each other's company." shout out to NABA INC. shout out to Andrew Argue, CPA shout out to Scott Scharf and Patti Scharf shout out to Accounting Salon shout out to 🔥 Michael Ly shout out to Gusto , ADP , QuickBooks Company
Bonus · Fri, March 25, 2022
#5minLy | The Not-To-Do List
shout out to our newest sponsor LiveFlow, get 20% off your first 3 months with code SONS at LiveFlow.io/sons Botkeeper is giving away a free year of bookkeeping, up to $20k, enter for a chance to win here! https://www.botkeeper.com/win #5minLy where Michael Ly and Scott Scarano discuss running their modern accounting firms with some some choice topics from Karbon Magazine this week's article https://karbonhq.com/resources/not-to-do-list-accounting-firm-efficiency/
Bonus · Wed, March 23, 2022
#NiksTips+ on Partners Pt. 2
Recorded on 2.22.22 …Happy TwosDay! Today we’re talking about Tech Partners… “I'm just pleased to participate in this podcast production pertaining to particular peculiarities of partnership.” Kenji people shout outs: Kenji, Niks, Scott, Joel Lacayo, Pat Perez, Michael Ly, Rod Drury, Matthew, tech partner shout outs: Xero, Relay, QuickBooks, CollBox, Gusto, ADP, Digits, Drizly
Mon, March 21, 2022
043 The Evolution of the Profession... It’s Our Turn (feat. Jeff Wilson II, CPA)
Sons of CPAs Podcast Episode 43 | Recorded December 27, 2021 Botkeeper is giving away a free year of bookkeeping, up to $20k, enter for a chance to win here! https://www.botkeeper.com/win shout out to our newest sponsor LiveFlow, LiveFlow.io/sons let’s count all the pop culture references in this episode that's really about the business of running an accounting firm: Drew Carrick aka The Rapping CPA aka The Character, Snoop Dogg, Suge Knight, Death Row Records, Puff Daddy, Andre 3000 and OutKast , Lil Baby, Game of Thrones and the Dothraki, Marvel, J. Cole, Michael Jackson, The Weeknd, Ye, the artist formerly known as Kanye West, Jay-Z, R. Kelly, Big Boi, Drake, Nas, Tupac shout out to N. Carter aka Nayo Carter, “Nayo’s a Superstar” from humble beginnings to CPA to prisons to CEO with almost a million-dollar mindset shout out to Ian Vacin south’s got something to say, put some south in your mouth represent Southeast Asia, North Carolina, Tennessee, Louisana, and Mississippi what do Warren Buffet, Charlie Munger, Jay-Z, James Prince, TI all have in common? they’re all having lunch with Jeff Wilson one day…
Bonus · Tue, March 15, 2022
#NiksTips+ on Partners Pt 1
Sons of CPAs Podcast Bonus Drop, #NiksTips + on Partners Pt 1 Botkeeper is giving away a free year of bookkeeping, up to $20k, enter for a chance to win here! https://www.botkeeper.com/win The Valentines Threesome feat. Nikole Mackenzie, CPA , scott scarano, ea 🥶😈 & Kenji Kuramoto “the best partnerships are when both sides feel like they got the better end of the deal” - K² Kenji Kuramoto, CEO of Acuity CFO Online Bookkeeping Accounting and Business Tax talks to us about running a $11M Firm with a partner, and running it like a true company Kenji’s words of wisdom on partners: as an entrepreneur you have to ask yourself, do you work better alone or with others? are you a team player or the solitary leader? when you’re going into business with friends, find someone that complements your weaknesses and reinforces your strengths titles are external facing, we run things as a team, but titles are important for those that are outside of the organization and how they perceive our roles than they do to us accounting is a profession that lends itself to money-making opportunities you’ve gotta include more long-term planning to make sure all partners are in alignment and on the same page then we go into how SalesForce, AirTable and Process Street are all being integrated into Acuity with their newly formed partnership/alliance with Catching Clouds, Patti Scharf and Scott Scharf shout out to Spanx and Sara Blakely … the youngest self-made female Billionaire… that’s just baller
Mon, March 14, 2022
042 LinkedIn’s Cutest Accountant (feat. Michael Eckstein, EA)
Episode 42 | Recorded December 20, 2021 LinkedIn’s Cutest Accountant (feat. Michael Eckstein, EA ) subscribe to Michael's newsletter here: https://restingbusinessface.com/ shout out to our sponsors this week: Clockwork and Xero Zachary Call, CPA ’s only takeaways this episode: “some things just stick” “roll with it” scott scarano, ea 🥶😈 ’s takeaways this episode: “when you’re a one-person-show you have to pick and choose what you are doing very carefully” “don’t take on tax work that you know you can’t do” “a 1041 tax return should be 3x the amount you charge for a 1040” “let’s fight some people over reasonable S corp comp” Michael’s takeaways this episode: “live your dreams” “don’t commit tax fraud” “have a good christmas” “don’t wait for Jewish Hell” “late fees don’t fix cashflow” and Michael’s religious rant at the hour mark… Jews figured out to make drinking a good deed and we don’t have hell, and everyone else screwed that up for us
Bonus · Wed, March 09, 2022
#NiksTips on Proposals
…Proposal Softwares to be more specific Sons of CPAs Bonus episodes where Nikole “Niks” Mackenzie and Scott Scarano share a small but useful piece of practical advice as it relates to running their professional accounting firms. This episode is brought to you by the letter P… today we’re going to discuss delivering Proposals for your accounting firm and the Proposal Platforms that we’re both on, Ignition and GoProposal here are the 5 Things that we look for in proposal software: Pricing Packages Processes Payments People shout out to James Ashford and the team at Ignition
Mon, March 07, 2022
041 Reach from Milk to Meat (feat. Justin Hatch, CEO)
Episode 41 Shout out to our sponsors this week: Clockwork and Xero Seeya next week
Bonus · Tue, March 01, 2022
#NiksTips on Pods
Season 2 Episode 9 Bonus Sons of CPAs Bonus episodes where Nikole “Niks” Mackenzie and Scott Scarano share a small but useful piece of practical advice as it relates to running their professional accounting firms. This episode is brought to you by the letter P… these bonus episodes are deep dives into topics that start with the letter P, and it’s a little different than our regular episodes Pods are how you structure your team in terms of how you deliver your services to your clients. Shout out to Niks … and her regular guest Episode on Sons of CPAs podcast https://anchor.fm/sonsofcpas/episodes/Beyond-Building-Momentum-feat--Nikole-Mackenzie--CPA-e15v293 shout out to Josh Lance at Lance CPA Group who introduced me to the pod concept years ago shout out to Ron Baker and the Soul of Enterprise podcast… efficiency is the enemy of effectiveness shout out to Shane Mason at BrooklynFI and the Liquidity Event podcast… and for not tracking time! shout out to Jody Grunden and the Modern CPA Success Show podcast… we've had some great episodes with pretty large firms that are doing this successfully, $10 million firms that have pod structure that are, very successful at it. And they're adding data analysts, and different people to a pod structure to enhance it and to make it stronger and to make the client relationship stronger and also increased profitability.
Sun, February 27, 2022
040 Real Life in the Accounting Profession (feat. Rita Keller)
Episode 40 | Recorded November 22, 2021 Real Life in the Accounting Profession (feat. Rita Keller) Shout out to our sponsors this week: Xero and Gusto Some of Rita's Wonderful Quotes: “I blog about CPA firm management, I've blogged every business day for nearly 17 years. The content out there is, and then I've got it, you know, by category.” “our partners, I think did it the right way. They let us manage the firm. And they took care of clients.” “I think that's right too many cooks in the kitchen, I always say. if you're going to have a managing partner, give him some power, and that's basically how we grew.” “We opened an office cold, which I do not recommend, never opened an office cold, cause it takes a long time to build up your visibility and your reputation.” “I don't know how many headaches I see with billing and collection, which to me that's a foundational issue that shouldn't be, nobody should be worrying about that.” “I think smaller firms like yours, what I've seen over the years are much more progressive than the larger firms” “you have to build that brand is what I tell my clients that on the college campus and in the community, you know, you want that brand to attract clients and who attracts employees.” “you should show your clients by example, how to run a good business. When it comes to billing collection, all that sort of stuff. They look to you to set the example and to tell them, but a lot of CPAs don't clearly define the expectation for clients. They just want to keep them happy.” shout out to: Gary Shamin, Mark Rosenberg, Chris Frederiksen, August Aquila, Allan Koltin, Gary Adamson, Jody Padar, and Shayna Chapman
Bonus · Tue, February 22, 2022
#NiksTips on Podcasts Pt. 2
2day is Twosday 2.22.22 happy 2sday, brought to you by the number 2 ... we present 2 you, part 2 of #NiksTips on Podcasts Sons of CPAs Podcast bonus episode drop feat. Nikole Mackenzie, CPA and scott scarano, ea 🥶😈 shout out to all the co-hosts Jason Ackerman, CPA, CFP®, CGMA 🔥 Michael Ly and Zachary Call, CPA mini show notes: 2 if you want to see the Pop! Cover Art that corresponds to the episode you’re listening to, check it out on Spotify Podcasts 3 Sons of CPAs title explained again… 4 finding balance in all our lives with a little bit of weed 6 Atomic Habits and The Bible both come highly recommended by Scott's clients and prospects 7 stay tuned for CPAliens 9 language isn’t always a barrier with people 10 a how-to-guide on podcasts… at least a start 11 a list of filler words that Descript will search for… “but you know” “hm” “I guess” “I mean” “I suppose” “kind of” “like” “mmm” “or something” “right” “so” “sort of” “uh” “um” “well” “you know” “you know what i mean” “you see” and repeated words 13 the difference between kind and nice 15 don’t lie to people ...podcasts are truth serums 16 Podcasts to check out Make it Count w/ Marcus A. Mire, CPA and Summit CPA Group of 3 podcasts w/ Jody Grunden, CPA 18 Scott's not high enough to indulge in the metaverse talk today
Sun, February 20, 2022
039 A Balanced Futurist (feat. Donnamaree Ryder, CEO)
Episode 39 | Recorded November 15, 2021 A Balanced Futurist (feat. Donnamaree Ryder , CEO) tania.ai "everyone can look back, but the actual Magic is when you're able to look forward and start to forecast what things might look like in your business" Donnamaree Ryder And a very special thank you to our Sponsors this week: Gusto & Xero
Bonus · Thu, February 17, 2022
#NiksTips on Podcasts Pt. 1
Sons of CPAs Bonus episodes where Nikole “Niks” Mackenzie and Scott Scarano share a small but useful piece of practical advice as it relates to running their professional accounting firms. This episode is brought to you by the letter P this one's a 2 parter... on Podcasts 3 shout out to AICPA Engage, best conference of the year 2021 5 Marcus Mire, Make it Count Podcast 9 Ryan Lazanis, Future Firm Podcast 11 Xero’s What Led You Here w/ Steve Vamos Podcast 12 how has the podcast enabled you to move the industry forward? 13 David Barrett, Expensify big ass Table Podcast 15 Gusto’s Caleb Newquist and Greg Kyte’s Oh My Fraud! Podcast 18 the Process to Producing this Podcast 19 Cloud Accounting Podcast, David Leary & Blake Oliver 20 The Scallion Pancake, Jason Ackerman’s food Podcast 22 Cover Art explained, shout out to Scarano, Ackerman, Niks, LySki and Zachary
Mon, February 14, 2022
038 What's Your And is Why's Asymptote (feat. John Garrett)
Episode 38 Author of What’s Your And | whatsyourand.com | Recorded November 8, 2021 Shout out to our sponsors this week: Xero and Gusto Zachary’s Takeaways Water cooler talk is not enough. You must go deeper with your team. Your people are far more important than your clients. Harness the energy within everyone and bring it into the organization and allow it to cultivate. People, clients, and staff love honesty. 85% of what makes up a person's life, we pretend is not there. We remember people by their “And” We do all of these things. We talk about our Ands to build connections and help us feel good about life and experience satisfaction and joy. Don't be a micromanager. We are all grown adults. Breathe in happy. Scott’s Takeaways 8% of people don’t have hobbies apparently your "And" and your "Why" can’t intersect Ben’s “And” is Jerry or ice cream? there are a lot of accountants that are really good at accounting but not great at running a business the No. 1 indicator of your success is your people you gotta be honest with yourself before you can bring out honesty in others all we really want in life is human connections the only people who care what phone you have are people shout outs: Simon Sinek “search your soul and find your why” Jay Leno “makes you feel like you’re part of the group” Mark Winburn “breath in happy” Rebecca Berneck “breaking motorcycle land speed records” Matthew Heggem “the dance of business” Tony Nitti “mountain backing and extreme skiing and surfing” Rumba Bwerinofa-Petrozello “karaoke in Berlin” Dawn Brolin “NCAA champion in softball” Lorilyn Wilson “NCAA champion in softball” Ben Westbrook “a degree in opera” Steven Pressfield “The War of Art”
Bonus · Thu, February 10, 2022
#NiksTips on Processes
Sons of CPAs Bonus episodes where Nikole “Niks” Mackenzie and Scott Scarano share a small but useful piece of practical advice as it relates to running their professional accounting firms. This episode is brought to you by the letter P we do not rise to the level of our goals. we fall to the level of our systems and processes. #NiksTips on Processes
Sun, February 06, 2022
037 The Evolution of Finance…as a Service (feat. Dan Gertrudes, CEO)
Episode 37 The Evolution of Finance…as a Service (feat. Dan Gertrudes, CEO) | Co-Founder of GrowthLab FaaS | growthlabfinancial.com | Recorded November 8, 2021 Shout out to our sponsors this week: Gusto's People Advisory and Karbon “I didn’t fail out of the school of hard knocks, I’m still getting schooled in that school, it’s a hard knock life that we live…that’s the moral of this story” 0-10min Figuring shit out at the ripe age of 38 Attributing equal parts luck and intention to our situations What’s your tolerance to risk when investing in yourself We as Americans have to keep up with ourselves and everyone around us as we fill the holes in our souls with more stuff…in the Economy built on Credit Dan’s higher education journey of 3 schools to obtain 1 diploma 10-20min Finance as a Function. “[Dan] If I were you, I would probably never take on another bookkeeping business [at GrowthLab] unless they were an FP&A customer” - Ian @ Karbon The hardest thing to sell to small businesses is Planning… it’s intangible, it’s hard to put a bookend on it This notion of billable hours is nonsense, my challenge is how do we productize FP&A? We need to stop having this ‘backward v forwards’ thinking conversation… planning is so back in vogue right now “If accountants, CPAs, accounting firms can figure out this FP and a function, just like we all did 20 years ago with the cloud accounting. We're just going to become more of that trusted advisor. Like everybody talks about being the trusted advisor, but you're not a trusted advisor. If you're not on a cadence like if you're only talking to your customer once or twice a year, that's not a trusted advisor.” DG “… and then I came across guys like Michael Ly, also not a CPA… and one of the first people I met that looked and felt a little bit more like us” DG 20-30min “there are only two ways to make money, you leverage capital or you leverage people…we’re in the business of leveraging people” DG Step 1 Technology and Leveraging our FP&A Function… shout out to Jirav Step 2 Cadence and Implementing our FP&A Function… shout out to Karbon Step 3 People and Executing our FP&A Function… shout out to our people at GrowthLab “one thing that has kept me real is knowing that [people] leave Friday afternoon and you just don’t know if they’re coming back on Monday” DG 30-40min “There needs to be continuity between each of the value streams…you need to replicate bookkeeping, accounting and FP&A…there needs to be a flow of information from left to right” “my number one job as a people manager is to de-risk the people factor in what we do, which sounds totally counter-intuitive to everything we probably just talked to prior to this” DG “I think you could argue that what you've done is you've created the processes first, b
Bonus · Thu, February 03, 2022
#NiksTips on Payroll
Sons of CPAs bonus episode where Niks and Scott share a small, but useful piece of practical advice as it relates to running their professional accounting firms. Today we're talking about Payroll with, Ms. Nikole Mackenzie of Momentum Accounting. let's talk about payroll...
Sun, January 30, 2022
036 Shameless Edutainment (feat. Michael Kravshik, CPA and CA)
Episode 36 Shameless Edutainment (feat. Michael Kravshik, CPA and CA) | Co-Founder of LumiQ | lumiqlearn.com | Recorded November 1, 2021 Shout out to our sponsors this week: Botkeeper and Reach Reporting Some Notes: the amalgamation of CA CMA and CGA in Canada (sup Brian Clare) impressive vs. weird vs. unique CPAs, Jews, doctors, lawyers, and auditors financial auditors and tax auditors “you need financial statements to be free of material misstatement” MK a cow and a bag of onions as a recurring expense for a uranium mine the word versatile was tattooed on Scott’s arm (was) a Master’s Degree in counter-terrorism, not Japanese History (sup Peter Wen) Japan vs NYC cultures - equally great with food, not so much with manners “history is the only thing that actually happened” MK “only fools learn from their own mistakes, the wise learn from the mistakes of others” OVB electromyography as it relates to the ŌURA Ring and its “BS technology” per Dr MK the impetus to LumiQ (sup Adam Bercovici) is Luminary a worthy word to get tattooed on your arm? “people don’t actively look for work until they’re extremely miserable in their job” MK lessons learned through all of the early iterations of LumiQ that eventually led to CPE and CPD for accountants through podcasting and an easy to use mobile platform do you remember when HQ Trivia game was all the rage 3 years ago? the importance of pivoting and emotionally letting go of sunk costs after dedicating a lot of time and money towards an idea that ultimately doesn’t pan out having a vision and seeing a path towards something much more meaningful in the midst of chaos “i hope that we have created a slightly better world for accountants” MK “a lot of times school can ruin learning and i felt like we can make learning fun and interesting…when we launched our tagline was enjoy CPE” MK two key components to LumiQ Ease of Use: an entire app ecosystem (Android, iOS, Web) with builtin quizzing, docs, and content Edutainment: content that is actually entertaining and educational “what’s in-between the ears of very successful professionals is a lot more valuable than what’s in-between the covers of textbooks” MK shout out to some guests that have been featured on LumiQ Allen Shim, CFA | CFO of Slack Russ Jones | former CFO of Shopify Ken Goldman | former CFO Yahoo! Rob Krolik | former CFO Yelp William Tunstall-Pedoe | the creator of Amazon Alexa Jim Balsille | co-founder of RIM, Blackberry "the creative constraints that Ethics courses pose...a lot of t
Bonus · Thu, January 27, 2022
#NiksTips on Priorities
#NiksTips on Priorities… Sons of CPAs Bonus episodes where Nikole “Niks” Mackenzie and Scott Scarano share a small but useful piece of practical advice as it relates to running their professional accounting firms. This episode is brought to you by the letter P Maslow’s Hierarchy of an Accounting Firm ***shout out to Mike Michalowicz and his book Fix This Next*** Physiological Needs = Sales & Cashflow Safety & Security = Delivery Products/Services & People Love & Belonging = Systems & Processes Self-Esteem = Client Impact & Focus Self-Actualization = Brand & Legacy to get really existential the number one priority is us as owners put your mask on first then tend to others so it’s the owner, the team, then the clients the importance of peers and colleagues and communities putting a priority on positive socialization we see technology companies lose their perspective and forget about their core product by prioritizing new features over strengthening their core product work on your core! eat right, sleep right, and work on your core the number one priority is taking care of yourself eat. move. sleep. the fundamentals. that’s what matters most in a business. because when all else fails, at least you can fall back on that… and you won’t actually fall if you’ve tied your shoelaces
Mon, January 24, 2022
035 The Intersection of a Tax Tech Transformation (feat. Peter Wen, CEO)
Episode 35 The Intersection of a Tax Tech Transformation (feat. Peter Wen , CEO) Peter Wen, CEO | Tallyfor Shout out to our sponsors this week: Relay Financial and TaxBandits in some ways #accounting is a past-oriented field, and #finance is the cousin looking towards the future... "I look to the past to learn and I look to the future to earn" What does it mean to be a change agent? When are we going to get a really good cloud tax product? What do you think was the biggest mistake that Xero made in the time you were there? What was the impetus to leave Xero and start Tallyfor ? What are some of the biggest hesitation to going to a Tallyfor product? mention of #hackathons and #KiwiIncubators more shout outs to Xero , Gusto , Eileen Adao , Ian Vacin , Michael Masilunas
Bonus · Wed, January 19, 2022
#NiksTips on Planning
NiksTips on Planning… Sons of CPAs Bonus episodes where Nikole “Niks” Mackenzie and Scott Scarano share a small but useful piece of practical advice as it relates to running their professional accounting firms. This episode is brought to you by the letter P planning, properly, piece, practical, professional, put, power, problem, per, part, projected, pipeline, projection, processes, particular, project, portfolio, payroll, probably, personality, pleasant, paperwork, planner, process, putting, psychiatrist, plastic, psychiatry, practice, poster, picking, perfect, poking, passion, proceeded, piece, procedure, people, practical, paper, progress, perfectly, picked, poor, phrase, partner, pretty, person, plus
Mon, January 17, 2022
034 The Savior is Synonymous with Finance and Operations (feat. Fady Hawatmeh, CEO)
Episode 34 The Savior is Synonymous with Finance and Operations (feat. Fady Hawatmeh , CEO) Clockwork .ai Shout out to our sponsors this week: TaxBandits and Reach Reporting 5 having that entrepreneurial spirit at the ripe age of 12 6 what did you learn working for Boeing that you can take to the smaller business market? what KPIs was Boeing interested in? 8 how did you decide you wanted to start an outsourced CFO firm? 9 the rewards and results of being the only finance person in a room full of entrepreneurs 17 id you create a financial plan for yourself at your 8 person firm? 18 don’t be the bottleneck at your firm 21 how did you exit the firm that you built to start an app? 22 you can never focus on and grow two companies at once 24 our business is like a watch, all the gears have to be in sync and properly functioning. 24 one of the most important parts of any business survival is cashflow projections 25 we all have ideas to create a mobile app, and you actually did it...how did you go about making Clockwork? 26 on working with Intuit and ensuring Clockwork was baked 100% through before launching the company 27 what's the best advice someone gave you over the past three years? 32 what do you tell firms that want to start providing advisory services? ***shout out to Edward Mendlowitz and Withum *** 35 on employee buy-in and understanding the difference between finance and accounting and a FP&A products vs other Forecasting and Reporting tools 37 what's the size of the client that is an ideal fit for FP&A services? 40 what's the next step for Clockwork ? ***shout out to HubSpot *** 42 SHOTS FIRED!!! ***shout out to Jirav *** 47 it's not as hard as you think it is to sell advisory and scale your practice - from Fady's Wisdom Corner
Bonus · Sun, January 16, 2022
#NiksTips on People
Sons of CPAs Bonus episodes where Nikole “Niks” Mackenzie and Scott Scarano share a small but useful piece of practical advice as it relates to running their professional accounting firms. Using words that start with the letter P. I don’t know why the letter P, but that’s what today’s episode is brought to you by…
Mon, January 10, 2022
033 Verticals 2.0... is it Neesh or Nitch? (feat. Marissa Jones-Logistis)
Episode 33 Verticals 2.0... is it Neesh or Nitch? (feat. Marissa Jones founder of Logistis and Logistis for Designers aka the Queen of Vertical Domination) link in the comments | Recorded October 11, 2021 Shout out to our sponsors this week: TaxBandits and Relay Financial in this episode, Marissa Jones and Scott Scarano 🥶 talk about... running modern accounting firms industry verticals #influencers for #accountants prioritizing #sleeping , #eating , and #exercising ... over #work mental health breaks and finding time for self-healing being #unplugged and social media Scott Scarano 🥶 complaining about email “in a service-based firm you balance your desires with the needs of clients and the team” niches or verticals for interior designers fetty “verticals should be something you’re interested in too” an appreciation for the arts the crypto rabbit hole… and the second vertical what about logistis for creatives? periodic seat swaps communities for accountants shout out to #TaxTwitter and Karbon Community doing drugs and Big Sur, shout out to the <a href="https://www.linkedin.com/feed/hashtag/?keywords=redhotchil
Bonus · Thu, January 06, 2022
#NiksTips on Profitability
#NiksTips on Profitability S02E01 Bonus #NiksTips defined: Sons of CPAs bonus episode, where Nikole "Niks" Mackenzie and Scott Scarano share a small but useful piece of practical advice as it relates to running their professional accounting firms on topics that start with the letter P today's session includes a discussion on the following... physical office v remote outsourcing pricing automation shout out to Pilot.com engineers data analysts shout out to Reach Reporting APIs tracking time office hours kids v cats investing in your business EOS, shout out to Gino Wickman owner’s freedom @scott’s actual profit % core problems money's most intrinsic value is that it gives us the ability to have control over our time - Morgan Housel The Psychology of Money
Mon, January 03, 2022
032 PPP2: Processes, Profitability, and People (feat. Scott Scharf, CTO)
Episode #32 | Recorded October 6, 2021 Shout out to our sponsors this week: TaxBandits and Reach Reporting it was announced on August, 4th 2021 that Catching Clouds would be merging with Acuity ...shout out to Kenji Kuramoto , Matthew May , and Lisa Gilreath 5 the journey of Catching Clouds and Patti Scharf 's BlackBerry ***shout out to Douglas Sleeter *** 6 Catching Clouds first client was an Amazon Seller, shout out to A2X 7 Scott Scharf's Steps to Success • pick your niche • pick your tech stack & focus your marketing • get your systems in place • determine the value props and value discussion • determine your pricing models • find your integrator (or visionary, depending on what you are) • focusing and going where your clients are 10 The fundamental lesson learned is being able to say no 11 Scaling up and growing, year 1: only two hires, year 2: hiring 9 people! ***shout out to Jeff Phillips and Accountingfly *** 19 take an extended vacation to find out where your business isn’t resilient, how will it run without you? 21 The structure of Catching Clouds 24 Letting smart humans to smart human things and giving them room to do that 30 At what point did you decide to start only taking on clients that were more than $1M in revenues? 37 Business owners need people with an accountant mindset to provide some structure, standardization, and systems 46 On RPAs… and what’s going to be automated at Acuity in the future 49 Do you have a favorite book? 52 Zachary Call, CPA key takeaways from this episode • walls will always be hit, but there are always options • there’s riches in the niches • say
Bonus · Tue, December 28, 2021
#NiksTips on Pricing
#NiksTips on Pricing Bonus to Episode #33 The who, what, where, when, and how of Pricing Scott: In the sales process who are you selling to? Niks: we need to be clear on who is your audience when pricing… Scott: Are we pricing the services or are we pricing the customer? Niks: we need to know what services we’re providing, we need to have a scope/baseline of the services provided and prices associated with services so we’re not negotiating price with the client but negotiating service offerings Scott: if you’re pricing products to be profitable then you’re not pricing the client, be firm on your price and make sure your prices are profitable. Niks: value pricing can be very subjective…if we're really busy and our pipelines really hot, our prices go up… Scott: should we do free trials or they should give them a free month so they can figure out the best way to price it? Niks: clients don't usually balk at the onboarding fee because they know it's a one-time thing. Scott: I think that you can agree that we are not pricing commodities…but, customers come to us thinking it's a product that they can get anywhere… do we have to change their mindset on the products we’re selling? Niks: I think there are some firms that are commodity and they priced that way and that's their business model. They just want to acquire as many customers as possible at a low price, but they also don't do very much. Scott: the best prospects that come to us are at that inflection point where they're in pain, when you work at a hospital and somebody is in pain, that's your patient right there… Niks: the hardest part is when you get a new business owner that doesn't know what they don't know yet, and you're trying to describe the value of what we do. Scott: how can you set yourself apart to make that price seem more palatable? The Momentum Sales Process: we spend an hour with the client just asking them all the questions. And then we asked for financial data, either access to their QuickBooks or Xero and then after that, we have another conversation with them, or we go through the scope, which is basically our diagnosis of what we think that they need. Based on everything we talked about. And then we can talk about things in the financials, which to your point about saving them money or pointing out things that they could do better. Scott: I think that they made up their mind when they found your firm more or less. Niks: I'm going to disagree with you on that…
Mon, December 27, 2021
031 Great KPIs…Time, Money, and Happiness (feat. Brannon Poe, CPA)
Episode #031 Brannon Poe, CPA | Founder Poe Group Advisors Charleston, SC 2 working with toxic fathers and sons ***shout out to our sponsor TaxBandits*** 7 how did you get started selling CPA practices ***shout out to Howard Holmes*** 10 Scott philosophizes on being his own boss and letting go… 11 starting a business vs scaling a business 12 do you really want to let go of the work? there’s no shame in doing highly specialized quality work… basically, before you go changing everything, ask yourself do you want to scale or not? 13 a firm owner’s systematic approach to scaling 14 abdicating vs delegating 15 setting up a process for hiring 16 email management and breaking down a process to delegate emails 18 the steps to making a great process at the firm 19 what are the potential buyers looking for when purchasing an Accounting Firm? 20 what does freedom mean to you? 21 from finding and pricing really good clients to finding and keeping really good teams 22 fighting perfection in your firm and not holding yourself back 25 being buoyant and prepared to make another mistake and fighting our perfectionistic tendencies 26 the market is HOT for cloud based firms… cloud up! 27 in an industry fraught with money and inertia 29 explain how a CPA firm is valued 31 if you wanna buy a CPA firm SBA has some great 10-year acquisition loans 32 if you’re going to sell your practice in 3 years, what are the things you should do to increase the value of your firm? 34 small firms get focused, look at your service lines and profit margins… let’s all stop chasing top line only 35 the importance of getting the pricing figured out in your practice ***shout out to our sponsor Relay Financial*** 39 so why did you start Accounting Practice Academy? ***shout out to accountingpracticeacademy.com *** 40 how I wrote this: Accountant’s Flight Plan https://www.amazon.com/Accountants-Flight-Plan-Practices-Todays/dp/061538935X 43 launching Accounting Practice Academy at the height of the pandemic ***shout out to Ian Brennan*** 45 we should be teaching our teams the bigger picture on how to run an accounting practice 46 you’ve given us a lot of advice here, sum it all up into one thing… 47 the Poe Prophesy… a diamond shaped firm 48 teaching Ackerman how to value his work and price it appropriately ***shout out to EO*** 50 I don’t think we realize how many of our clients are operating in the dark… we need to spend more time helping them understand their numbers, more conversations with clients, and more client interaction… and charging appropriately for this highly valued work!</
Bonus · Thu, December 23, 2021
#NiksTips | The Future of CPE (feat. Blake Oliver, CPA)
#NiksTips | The Future of CPE (feat. Blake Oliver, CPA) Bonus to Episode #32 5 it is a buyers market for traditional firms for sure… imagine owning a firm and doing 1,400 individual tax returns and only charging $300 each… the question for a future episodes is, how do you raise your prices? 6 let’s face it, it’s not as easy to delegate sales as it is to delegate the work… 7 half the sales process is just making sure there’s a good chemistry between you and the client… 11 What are all the reasons clients actually need good clean financials? file tax return, manage the business, investors, the bank, line of credit…and I want to sell my business 14 I think we all need to find Peace…financially… so it’s a lot easier to adjust your living expenses to fit your budget than to try and make more money 15 being an accountant is safe, don’t ya think? 16 it’s like time right… work expands to fill the time… if you have a lot of money, your expenses expand to fill that money 17 So Earmark app we can listen to podcasts and get CPE… ***shout out to Earmark and LumiQ*** 20 This new world of CPE is exciting… 21 The Earmark Goal is the fix CPE, because CPE is broken 23 Blake’s Kids .org
Mon, December 20, 2021
030 Sons of CPAs... Powered by Relay (feat. Yoseph West)
Episode #30 Yoseph West | CEO and Co-Founder of Relay Financial Toronto, CA ***shout out to our sponsor TaxBandits*** 4 Some cool things about Toronto besides it’s a hub for accounting tech 5 how did you get into the accounting space? 7 learning how critical the back office function of a business truly is 9 what’s the biggest thing you learned when growing your first startup to 70,000 users and selling to Wave? 10 lessons on bonds and friendships and leaving Wave on the path to working for HubDoc 12 the cloud ghost town of 2014… and early HubDoc days ***shout out to Deborah*** 15 some light RPA talk… but not really 17 being at HubDoc right before their acquisition by Xero ***shout out to the Jamie Shulman and Jamie McDonald aka the Jamies*** 19 the Genesis of… Relay Financial, let’s be the bank ***shout out to Evernote and Notion*** 20 the challenges of small business banking and how the big banks really struggle with software 24 starting with the customer, and controlling the banking process from top to bottom 25 on the need for a FinTech banking charter ***shout out to Stripe, Square, and Evolve Bank and Trust*** 26 what problems does Relay solve? 28 Accountants love that Relay has partner portals, a direct reliable bank feed, and sending across rich transition data ***shout out to QBO, Xero, Plaid, Yodlee*** 29 that all sounds great, but how do I sell that to my clients? We need to focus the conversation on solving the clients pain points, not on switching banks 31 fun fact: most small businesses have 2.63 banking relationships ***shout out to Nikole Mackenzie aka Niks*** ***shout out to our sponsor Relay Financial*** 37 SMB lending relationships with banks 40 whose the Rick and whose the Morty on this podcast? 41 accounting firms aren’t spending enough time on security in their playbook… ***shout out to Rewind and Practice Protect*** 43 where do you see Relay going in the next 5 years? 44 in what space would a Relay acquisition make sense? ***shout out to Sasan Goodarzi*** 46 what are some of the team culture ideas that you’ve learned along the way that you want to implement at Relay? ***shout out to the Relay Team*** 47 some lessons to learn from the HubDoc days and values to share were empathy, integrity, transparency, and just having a fun culture 48 as a CEO what are you doing to make sure that culture is embodied by your team at Relay? 51 the future of work is a Hybrid model and flexibility 55 it’s the snacks and little things that people really love about an office 56 going from 3 employees at Relay to 50 to 100 by end of next year!
Bonus · Sat, December 18, 2021
#PadgettChiefs | Capacity and Creating a Cadence for Communication (feat. Jeff & Amanda)
#PadgettChiefs | Capacity and Creating a Cadence for Communication (feat. Jeff & Amanda) Bonus to Episode #29 Recorded on November 17, 2021 at the Padgett Tax Conference … it’s Scott’s Birthday 🥳 2 one thing that I'm hearing consistently is we are too busy and we can't hire enough help. When the owner is the primary producer, the owner can't really run the business or work in the business. And so. How do we build capacity? 4 technology creates more capacity for us. 5 some people try to build their firms or build themselves up for somebody else or what they think they should be doing. At the core, it starts with, what do I want? 6 can a small, independent firm that does a lot of tax returns have capacity and a life? 8 setting priorities and letting the little stuff slide 9 to create more capacity you have to first delegate and create processes, set priorities, have patience, and proper planning 10 start with one thing, the lowest hanging fruit 13 find somebody that's done it already to help guide you through that process because anything that you're going to go through, somebody else's already gone through 14 how do you create more capacity for your team? You can’t just keep throwing more people at problems… 15 office hours, time blocking, and the hyperactive hive mind… we need to structure our internal processes and communications 20 Jeff’s secret sauce… outsourcing his email processing! the benefits of having a virtual executive assistant (aka a secretary) 25 removing the sense of urgency in your life requires deliberation and a cadence for communication 26 in hindsight, there are never any real surprises in a business… surface level problems appear to be surprising in the moment, but looking back we all saw them coming from a mile away 27 there are things we can delete from our lives that will create capacity for the things that really matter… remove the pacifiers for our minds, take a look at the things you do to escape
Mon, December 13, 2021
029 Pricing Psychology 101: The Value Menu (feat. Mark Wickersham)
Episode #29 Pricing Psychology 101: The Value Menu (feat. Mark Wickersham ) Recorded September 27, 2021 Mark Wickersham | Most Sought After Profit Improvement Expert, Value Pricing Expert, Professional Speaker, and Author 2 Portugal’s non-habitual resident's rules (NHR) scheme allowed Mark to save on 10 years of taxation 4 the COVID mindset shift that we may (or may not) have gone through 6 from one accident to another, Mark’s accidental entry into the accounting profession 14 what were the things you swore you wouldn’t do when you started your own accounting firm? 16 tell us about your pivot from running an accounting firm to consulting accounting firms? ***shout out to Steve Pipe , Paul Dunn , and Ron Baker *** 21 what were the biggest mistakes you made when you first started your accounting firm? 23 from pricing mistakes to hiring mistakes, to being obsessed with top-line over profit 25 when you compete on price you win poor quality clients 25 if you don’t give the price upfront then you can’t get paid upfront 29 before we go further with value pricing, how do you go about changing your firm to a fixed pricing model? if I change the price for my existing clients, will I lose them all? 30 the Pareto Principle and 20% 39 Value Pricing 2.0 40 the pricing journey and taking things one step at a time… 41 fixed pricing is all about having a process for assessing the scope 42 the things we do to add more value are often the easiest things to deliver 46 tell us about Effective Pricing 47 one of the most powerful principles of pricing psychology is anchoring 50 what’s the idea timeframe between an initial call and the pricing call? 52 What’s one piece of advice you would give to accountants today that are starting this pricing journey? #accounting #mindset Mark's Social Media Links LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/markwickersham1/ LinkedIn Author Page: https://www.linkedin.com/today/author/markwickersham1 Twitter https://twitter.com/wickersonabike YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/user/Pricing4Accountants Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/markwickershamfca Instagram <a href="
Bonus · Sun, December 12, 2021
#NiksTips | The Future of Banking (feat. Blake Oliver, CPA)
#NiksTips | The Future of Banking (feat. 👂 Blake Oliver, CPA , CPA and Nikole Mackenzie, CPA ) Sons of CPAs Bonus to Episode #28 5 the difference between Relay Financial and Wells Fargo is Relay Financial lets you create as many checking accounts as you want, Wells Fargo opens them up without your consent 6 the pains and perceived costs of moving bank accounts is so high that we don’t do anything ***shout out to Caleb Newquist and Greg Kyte, CPA of the Oh My Fraud Podcast*** 9 for businesses that need to spin out different accounts really easily, that’s where the killer app is for Relay ***shout out to Mike Michalowicz and Profit First Professionals- It's your business. Shouldn't your profit come first? *** 11 if you worked with a small sub-set of contractors, or co-hosts, you could setup Relay accounts for them ***shout out to Jason Ackerman, CPA, CFP®, CGMA and TaxBandits *** 14 Business owners like rewards, how can Relay get them rewards? 15 Nikole Mackenzie, CPA ’s Relay Wish List 18 a Simpsons and Twilight Zone break… 19 Niches and implementing new platforms at your firm… *** shout out to Xero ***
Sun, December 05, 2021
028 The EntreCPA... Weaving Together Tech + Tax (feat. Sam McCraw, CPA, MAC)
Episode #28 Sam McCraw, CPA, MAC | Tax Director - CFO Timonier, Wealth Beyond Financial™ | Winston-Salem, NC Recorded August 30, 2021 3 tell us about your dad, who retired at 48 years old… 4 tell us about being in the security forces for the US air force… 7 why did you go into accounting after leaving the air force? 14 tell us about the billing, marketing and service offerings at Timonier ***shout out to our sponsor this week, Practice Ignition*** 22 tell us about working as a tax analyst for Intuit… 30 the Xero v Intuit QuickBooks debate continues… but, not really 34 what would you say to a firm that’s thinking about adding wealth management? 35 it’s like adding a passive revenue stream to your accounting practice… ***shout out to our sponsor this week, Reach Reporting*** 39 when you started at Timonier, Wealth Beyond Financial™, what were the first things you changed? 40 A lesson on #ChangeManagement done right, from a fellow #ChangeAgent 42 how do you prioritize doing 230 tax returns, by yourself? 44 after the tech stack, what’s the next thing that you know you need to change? 46 getting a lot of self-actualization by maintaining a stand-alone CPA firm on the side, with the entrepreneurial spirit… so why not go out completely on your own? 47 as a sole tax practitioner, how do you get your training and do you have a support network? 49 what’s something you miss from being at Scott Scarano 🥶’s firm? 50 and another argument for tracking time at an accounting firm… 51 you’ve worked in all these different industries, give our listeners some advice if they’re going to go out on their own…
Bonus · Sat, December 04, 2021
#AccountingEvolutions | Future Change is Always Present (feat. Ian Vacin of House Karbon)
Please subscribe to the Sons of CPAs on your favorite podcast player, and leave us a review on Apple Podcasts! #AccountingEvolutions | Future Change is Always Present (feat. Ian Vacin) BONUS to episode #27 Recorded Tuesday, November 16 @ Padgett FOCUS 2021 in Atlanta, GA - the epicenter of the tax epidemic Hello and welcome, we are all the Sons of CPAs, join us this week from the epicenter of the tax epidemic, with another special guest Ian Vacin recorded in person in Atlanta, Georgia on Tuesday, November 16, 2021 ... today we're talking about the evolution of accounting, and it gets deep… here are some quotes from the episode how do we look introspectively and figure out how we're going to do things differently going forward? why would we impose change on ourselves or on our firm? California seems to have a lot of the change. Well, the change curve kind of starts there when it comes to tech and other things. How about tax? a lot of conversations I'm having start with, “I want to sell my practice”, OR “I want to buy books of business” the reason why we got where we were two years ago to where we are today was because of the backs of the accounting profession. Helping support psychologically, financially, all different efforts to be able to create the programs, to get people the support they needed. So we got to experience how much we, as accountants, have a lot more strength to withstand anything that could be thrown at us because we have a stoic mindset, we know that it could be worse. So my current present, I can choose and I have more power over the decisions. there's a lot out there that are looking to buy. So I think the frequency of buyers has increased because it's like a gold rush, they see the value... I think that the buyer's market can be a smaller firm and you can also play in that market. But if you do it, you better have gotten your house in order and the foundation needs to be there. You have to increase your margins. The problem has been consistent for the last 20 years. It's very hard to get talent. You're dealing with a situation where the talent growth has 0.4% - 0.6%. increased growth year over year on talent. I've noticed that too with my conversations are a lot different these days. it's a different, level of understanding on both parties. I've always had my head in the clouds, so to speak and that's been hard to relate. A lot of people have gone through another level of maturity, even at an older age, with different level of understanding and empathy. and people still let their egos get in the way…but that’s a story for another day, Cheers. Please subscribe to the Sons of CPAs on your favorite podcast player, and leave us a review on Apple Podcasts!
Tue, November 30, 2021
027 The Fresh Princess (feat. Twyla Verhelst, CPA)
Episode #27 Twyla Verhelst, CPA | Founder of Helm and Head of Accounting Community at FreshBooks and the founder of the Women in Accounting Hub - www.womeninaccounting.online Calgary, Alberta Canada Recorded September 7, 2021 ***shout out to our sponsor Tallyfor *** ***shout out to our sponsor Practice Ignition *** 2 outlets through COVID ***shout out to Acuity CFO Online Bookkeeping Accounting and Business Tax and Drink While You Think*** 6 USA vs Canada, the North American race to STOP using checks 9 Where Accounting and Technology collide… 11 Becoming a Software Entrepreneur Accountant… ***shout out to our sponsor Tallyfor *** 17 Twyla’s first Ethics/Integrity TEST 18 Starting, growing, and selling businesses… 19 The Birth of Helm | Cash Flow App … 20 The Birth of the Fresh Princess aka Head of Accounting Relationships at FreshBooks 25 Twyla, what’s your North Star? 27 Ackerman’s FreshBooks story ***shout out to Mike McDerment *** ***shout out to our sponsor Practice Ignition *** 33 FreshBooks was ahead of it’s time… in the cloud since 2003 35 There’s room for a 3rd player in the Cloud Accounting GL space… 41 Creating a client experience that your client can’t live without 46 Setting our clients up for success 48 Staying in your lane and widening the shoulders… 50 Why is there so much accounting tech coming straight outta Canada? 53 Stepping away from your firm and going deeper in the software biz to become closer to the Accounting Community 59 Give us one piece of advice to share with accounting firm owners… ***shout out to Kenji Kuramoto *** ***shout out to all women in accounting*** www.freshbooks.com/accountants
Bonus · Thu, November 25, 2021
#2021ThanksgivingSpecial | The Sons of CPAs are Thankful for...
The Sons of CPAs Thanksgiving Special 2021 Thank You…Jason Ackerman Thank You…Liz Mason Thank You…Michael Ly Thank You…Zachary Call Thank You…Will Lopez Thank You…Jason Staats Thank You…Joshua Lance Thank You…Jeff Phillips Thank You…Marcus Mire Thank You…Donna Bordeaux Thank You…Nikole Mackenzie Thank You…Kenji Kuramoto Thank You…Dave Emmerman Thank You…Stephanie Holt Thank You…Blake Oliver Thank You…Lorilyn Wilson Thank You…Amanda Aguillard Thank You…Kathy Gregory Thank You…Kristen Keats Thank You…Ian Vacin Thank You…Brian Clare Thank You…Guy Pearson Thank You…Roger Harris Thank You…Chris Farrell Thank You…Dave Olsen Thank You…Nayo Carter-Gray Thank You…Twyla Verhelst Thank You…Samuel McCraw Thank You…Mark Wickersham Thank You…Yoseph West Thank You…Brannon Poe Thank You…Scott Scharf Thank You…Marissa Jones Thank You…Fady Hawatmeh Thank You…Peter Wen Thank You…Michael Kravshik Thank You…Daniel Gertrudes Thank You…John Garrett Thank You…Donnamarie Ryder Thank You…Rita Keller Thank You…Justin Hatch Thank You…Byron Patrick Thank You…Michael Eckstein Thank You…Dawn Brolin Thank You…Jody Grunden Thank You…Shane Mason Thank You…Greg Kyte Thank You…Tate Henshaw Thank You…Marie Phillips Thank You…Caleb Newquist Thank You… to all our sponsors and to all our listeners!!!! (Subscribe and leave us a review on Podcast…should you feel so inspired)
Bonus · Mon, November 22, 2021
#ChangeAgents | The Champion of Change
Hello and welcome, we are all the Sons of CPAs, join us this week with another special co-host, Marcus Mire, CPA recorded in person in Lafayette, Louisana on Friday, November 19, 2021 ... today we're talking about Change Management in an accounting firm, here are some takeaways: the pain of the present needs to be more powerful than the pain of change. you have to be continually reminded of that big picture reverting back to the comfort of what's familiar don't make any changes in a cavalier way what is your intended outcome of the change and be very clear on that...is it time? Is it money? Is it freedom? Is it growth? you might have to backpedal, you might have to start back at square one sunk costs are the enemy in a world where our minds change over time to make change happen, you got to champion it accept the reality of change and move on Things are going to change around you and you've got no control over that. That's where you got to pivot your current mindset and shift. And th that's another story for another day...Cheers
Mon, November 22, 2021
026 The Elephant in the Room (feat. Nayo Carter-Gray, EA)
Episode #26 ❤️🖤💚Nayo Carter-Gray, EA MBA | Founder of 1st Step Accounting Baltimore, MD Recorded August 30, 2021 6 Does the CPA matter to clients anymore? 9 from the summer job in high school to filing your own taxes and getting refunds #SideHustleStories… Nayo - High School doing friends 1040-EZ in high school for $25 a pop Scott - High School selling CDs for $25 a pop Scott - Middle School doing friends book reports for $10 a pop Nayo - MaryKay to Slumber Parties, adult toys and lingerie for ladies… 12 getting an MBA in IT and passions for cyber security ***shout out to LastPass and Cashapp *** 14 Internship at a black accounting firm in Baltimore during college 15 Healthcare accounting for 10 years ***shout out to Shoeboxed and Square *** 15 Paperless from the jump 16 A Side Hustle is A Side Effect of growing up, not too rich… 17 multilevel marketing aka mini-franchises 21 the strategies of selling sex toys and making $750 an hour 22 to run a successful business you need to make sure you have scalable processes… ***shout out to 1st Step Accounting : We make Accounting a little less Taxing for Small Business Owners*** 23 breaking down complex topics into simplified processes and formulas 24 Do you have any employees at 1st Step Accounting ? ***shout out to InboxDone.com *** 24 Outsourcing Email 25 How do you keep all the multiple hats of running a business on your head? ***shout out to the Passion Planner and Nifty and the Pomodo Technique*** 26 TimeBlock and STOP trying to multitask, because it doesn’t work ***shout out to our sponsor Reach Reporting *** 27 What Makes your firm different from other firms? ***shout out to Cognito Forms*** 28 Where do you feel you’re at with 1st Step in your journey? 38 tell us a little bit about Steps to Success… ***shout out to Intuit QuickBooks and Xero *** ***shout out to Amanda Aguillard CPA CISD and Cathy Iconis, CPA ***
Sun, November 14, 2021
025 Determined. Agile. Vision. Evolve. (feat. Dave Olsen, CPA)
Episode #25 Determined. Agile. Vision. Evolve. (feat. Dave Olsen, CPA) recorded 8/23/2021 Dave Olsen, CPA | CEO Nimbl & Nimbl Staffing South Jordan, UT 2 from Brigham Young University accounting to information systems to programming to EY 5 the CFO of a 5 person startup isn’t a full-time job 7 Are you a multitasker or an entrepreneur? 9 from India to the Philippines in 2012… ***shout out to Cathy Tio at Nimbl Staffing*** 10 Putting your business pants on in 2017… ***shout out to Patti Scharf, CPA*** 13 The birth of Tanalytics… the death of Tanalytics… ***shout out to Jason Staats, CPA, MBA*** 15 Where did the name Nimbl come from? 18 Your brand should be a reflection of you…according to Scott Scarano 🥶 ***shout out to our sponsor Practice Ignition*** 21 What brings you the most joy? 23 Reverse engineering, kinda like our friends at Acuity CFO Online Bookkeeping Accounting and Business Tax? ***shout out to Matthew May & Kenji Kuramoto*** 24 To Scale by leveraging your own experiences through your team ***Get your Nimbl Staffing on today at Nimblstaffing.com*** 25 Rebranding, a worthy $10k investment! ***shout out to Reed Hill*** 27 Let’s hear about your app-stack… ***shout out to Intuit QuickBooks, Xero, Gusto, Bill.com, Asana, Front*** 29 Let’s talk about A World Without Email, and our buddy Cal Newport… 30 Let’s teach our clients how to work with us…from the start 31 Two hour response times… YIKES!! ***shout out to Jason Fried at Basecamp*** 36 Is your tech-stack scalable? Will it still work if you double or triple in size? ***shout out to our sponsor Reach Reporting*** 39 So Dave, what does the future hold for Dave Olsen and Nimbl? 40 CFO work and building financials models in Google Sheets vs any platforms… 42 Dave’s current focus: Growth and Scaling and Team Training ***shout out to Kenji Kuramoto & Matthew May, again*** ***shout out to Scott’s mom, he’s trying not to curse now*** 46 Zachary’s philosophy: Hire with your gut, fire quickly. 47 Let’s talk about the Book of Mormon… and the great outdoors of Utah 51 Living and working through COVID ***shout out to Amanda Aguillard CPA CISD & ▪David Leary▪*** ***shout out to Bronco Mendenhall***
Bonus · Tue, November 09, 2021
#20minLy | Lost Loved Employees, Good Grief
Hello and welcome. We are all the Sons of CPAs. Join us with this week's #20minLy or Sons of CPAs Bonus episodes where Michael Ly and Scott Scarano discuss some choice topics on running their respective modern accounting firms. Today's Topic: Losing key employees that your team loves, and techniques or ways of planning for and grieving for lost employees in general...
Sun, November 07, 2021
024 Looking Back to the Future (feat. Chris Farrell, CPA/CEO)
Episode 24 Looking Back to the Future (feat. Chris Farrell, CPA/CEO) recorded 8/16/2021 Chris Farrell, CPA | CEO Liscio.me San Francisco, CA 1 Tell us about how you got started in the accounting industry… 3 Tell us about your dad’s embezzlement scandals… 5 Tell us about the coolest thing that happened at USC Santa Barbara… ***shout out to our sponsor Reach Reporting*** 12 Tell us about transitioning from accounting to tech… ***shout out to Oracle & Stratacomm*** 13 Tell us about the first jump, when you left Arthur Andersen… 16 Tell us about Liscio… 23 How did your accounting background help you with a startup? ***shout out to René Lacerte*** ***shout out to Bill.com, Paycycle & Lacerte*** 24 Tell us about not having a CPA for the first couple years… 27 Tell us about some times that you regret not having a good advisor early on… 31 Accountants can be the bridge between the past and the future ***shout out to our sponsor Practice Ignition*** 37 Who is at the table with the entrepreneur? 39 Give us the Liscio sales pitch… 45 Where do you see Liscio in 5 years? 47 Ackerman’s screen is frozen… 52 To the next phase of consolidation with our apps… Please leave us a review and subscribe, that would be super dope!
Bonus · Wed, November 03, 2021
#5minL² | Experimentation w/ Notification Depreciation
#5minL² | Experimentation w/ Notification Depreciation Episode 01 LEADERSHIP LESSONS | INDUSTRY TRENDS | CLIENT EXPERIENCE Hello and welcome. We are all the Sons of CPAs. Join us with this week's #5minL² with your hosts Chris Farrell and Scott Scarano. #5minL² defined: 1. derived from our #5minLy bonus episodes BUT with another sub-co-host this time on Leadership Lessons or L² 2. Sons of CPAs Bonus episodes where Chris Farrell and Scott Scarano discuss some choice articles from Liscio Newsletter https://liscio.me/leadership-lessons-take-care-of-ourselves/
Sat, October 30, 2021
023 PPP: A President’s Personal Priorities (feat. Roger Harris, EA)
Episode #23 HAPPY HALLOWEEN 2021 PPP: A President’s Personal Priorities (feat. Roger Harris, EA) recorded 8/2/2021 Roger Harris, EA | President of Padgett Business Services Athens, GA ***shout out to our 1st PAID sponsor Reach Reporting *** 5 I will not play golf if I don’t need a cooler to keep the beer cold 6 After you’ve found your career, did you really need your CPA? 10 Don’t question Mr. Padgett, or he will fire you! 12 The principles of marketing to clients haven’t changed in 50 years 13 How did you go from the paperboy to running Padgett? 15 What’s the biggest change from when you started 40 years ago? 16 Has it been a struggle to get a lot of the older Padgett offices to change their mindset? 17 We have to stop getting paid for what we do, and start getting paid for what we know. 18 Our value is not looking backward, but looking forward 21 It’s easier to keep you out of trouble than to get you out of trouble 24 Serving on the IRS Advisory Council for 4 years 25 The IRS is one of the biggest Social Welfare programs in the world ***shout out to Charles O. Rossotti*** 29 The IRS might get worse before it gets better. 30 Roger, at what point are you going to roll up your sleeves and fix the IRS? ***shout out to our 2nd PAID sponsor Tallyfor *** 35 How many real IRS audits have any of you been through? 36 Intent and ignorance have the same effect on the tax system 41 At the end of the day every checker player can become a king 43 The biggest mistake we make as professionals is we don’t set priorities 46 Do not spend $5 of my money looking for $1 of someone else’s 47 Everything has to be judged on the priorities you set and materiality 48 What do you look for in a new Padgett Franchisee? 49 Tell us some old client stories 52 Set family and personal priorities and stick to them ***shout out to Jeff Phillips*** ***shout out to Amanda Aguillard***
Bonus · Tue, October 26, 2021
#5minLy | The Color Yellow
Sons of CPAs Episode 22 Bonus 10.26.2021 #5minLy | The Color Yellow Episode 11 LEADERSHIP | RECRUITING #5minLy defined: Sons of CPAs Bonus episodes where Michael Ly and Scott Scarano discuss some choice topics from Karbon Magazine about running their modern accounting firms. https://karbonhq.com/resources/30-interview-questions-to-help-you-identify-the-best-candidate/
Mon, October 25, 2021
022 π’s Logic Accounting Brain (feat. Guy Pearson, CEO)
Episode #22 π’s Logic Accounting Brain (feat. Guy Pearson, CEO) recorded 8/2/2021 Guy Pearson, CEO | Chief Ignitioneer | Head Janitor Practice Ignition | Sydney, Australia 2 Trading Places and the Crescendo of Agricultural Economics 3 Being older than your father ever was 6 Aussie Rules IPA, Institute of Public Accountants 8 Do you want $20 in the bank or $20,000 at the end of the year? ***shout out to Xero, Skype, Google Suite, Dropbox*** ***shout out to Receipt Bank, Fathom, and Spotlight*** 11 An online ledger with an API, Bank Feeds, Single Ledger… god bless Xero 13 If you’ve traveled around the world, you probably bumped into an Australian 18 THE BIRTH OF… Interactive Accounting P/L 21 THE BIRTH OF… My Financial Solutions 22 THE BIRTH OF… My PIR (Property Investment Report) 26 Not doing any day-to-day work in your firm after 3 years! ***shout out to Josh Lance*** 28 Firm Ignition, Group Ignition, and Practice Ignition 30 THE BIRTH OF… Practice Ignition ***shout out to Stuart McLeod*** ***shout out to Matt Allen*** 35 When will everyone see the logic of running monthly retainers? ***shout out to Steph Hinds, Head Ninja @ Growthwize*** ***shout out to Rod Drury*** 37 The 3 F’s 39 A Global Mindset from Day One ***shout out to Brendan Allen*** ***shout out to Tom Maxwell*** ***shout out to Don Miller*** ***shout out to Tiger Global*** ***shout out to Relay, Xero, Dext, Hubdoc, QuickBooks*** ***shout out to Karbon*** ***SPECIAL shout out to the Practice Ignition Team*** 49 Smarter Together, Better Together 50 It’s the End of the Beginning…
Sat, October 16, 2021
021 Blueprint 2: The Amalgamation (feat. Brian Clare, CPA)
Episode 21 Blueprint 2: The Amalgamation (feat. Brian Clare, CPA) recorded 8/2/2021 Brian Clare, CPA, CMA | Blueprint Accounting Entrepreneur | Cloud Technologist | Automation Specialist ***shout out to Chrisio at Liscio*** ***shout out to Ian at Karbon*** ***shout out to Ackerman at BNA*** ***shout out to Oracle, SAP, NetSuite, QBO, Xero, and Freshbooks*** 3 there’s gotta be another cloud accounting GL platform to compete w/ Xero and QB… ***I guess…shout out to Sage*** ***shout out to Michael LySki*** 7 Partnership breakups, makeups, mergers, acquisitions, and amalgamations! 8 CA = Chartered Accountant, similar to CPA in the US 8 CMA = Certified Management Accountant 8 CGA = Certified General Accountant ***shout out to Scott Armstrong*** ***shout out to Richard Aprio Kopelman, CPA/CEO*** ***shout out to Jay-Z*** 10 What’s in a name? 11 What’s your firm's primary focus? 12 What’s your philosophy on time? 16 How many employees do you have? ***shout out to Scott Scharf, CTO*** 17 What are your revenue goals? ***shout out to Christopher Leon, EA*** 19 Do you still do sales at your firm? 23 What happens when pricing services come up with your bookkeepers or accountants? 23 Why do we accept that a client will get mad about the price? 26 What’s your current philosophy on Change Management? ***shout out to Accounting Salon*** ***shout out to Amanda Aguillard, CPA*** ***shout out to Kenji Kuramoto, CEO at Acuity*** ***shout out to Liz Mason, CPA at High Rock*** 28 A world buried by email 29 Time Blocking 30 How do we find time to do the things we used to before firms and families? 32 What did we do before iPhones and Social Media? 34 How do you do your SOPs or Standard Operating Procedures? ***shout out to Loom and Scribe*** ***shout out to Microsoft Teams*** 36 How do you guys handle digital security? ***shout out to Webroot*** 39 Do you have an email philosophy? ***shout out to Liscio*** ***shout out to Nayo Carter-Gray, EA, and takingyourfirmvirtual.heysummit.com *** 46 Let’s talk about the Accounting Automations Workflows podcast! ***shout out to Heather Satterley, CPA*** ***shout out to Jay-Z***
Bonus · Fri, October 15, 2021
#5minLy | Shiny Happy Hybrid Teams
Sons of CPAs Episode 20 Bonus HAPPY TAX EXTENSION DEADLINE 2021!!! 10.15.2021 #5minLy | Shiny Happy Hybrid Teams Episode 10 LEADERSHIP | DISTRIBUTED TEAMS | WORKING REMOTELY #5minLy defined: Sons of CPAs Bonus episodes where Michael Ly and Scott Scarano discuss some choice topics from Karbon Magainze about running their modern accounting firms. https://karbonhq.com/resources/3-infrastructure-pillars-to-run-a-remote-or-hybrid-accounting-team/ Bonus Music Video! https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=YYOKMUTTDdA
Sun, October 10, 2021
020 Prioritizing Work, Relationships, and Finance in your Accounting Firm (feat. Ian Vacin, CCO)
Episode #20 Prioritizing Work, Relationships, and Finance in your Accounting Firm (feat. Ian Vacin, CCO) recorded 7/19/2021 Ian Vacin, CCO | ian@karbonhq.com Chief Bottle Washer, Chief Janitorial Service, and Chief Customer Officer Karbonhq.com 3 The three Karbon KPIs are Sales, NPS, and Net Dollar Retention (NDR) plus two others, Platform and Innovation ***shout out to Tim Donohoue*** 7 THE BIRTH OF… Triage 12 THE BIRTH OF… Ian Vacin ***shout out to Stuart McLeod*** ***shout out to John Freeman*** 16 THE BIRTH OF… Karbon 18 The bridge between Billing and Time for larger firms 20 Accountant’s Stool is made up of 3 Pillars: Work, Relationships, and Finance 26 Why Ian is worried about the future of the profession… 30 COVID could have been the shock to the system that we needed, for better or worse… 34 Stuart the Optimist, Ian the Realist, and John the Pessimist ***shout out to Rod Drury*** ***shout out to Ali Grigg*** ***shout out to Ross Jenkins*** ***shout out to Jeff Phillips*** ***shout out to Amanda Aguillard*** ***shout out to Roger Harris*** 41 Karbon as good stewards for the Accounting Community ***shout out to Chris Farrell*** 45 Ian’s realization on how Karbon is such a game-changer in his own life…
Mon, October 04, 2021
019 Fantastic Ms. Fox (feat. Kristen Keats, CPA)
Episode #19 Fantastic Ms. Fox (feat. Kristen & Kelsey Keats, CPA) recorded 7/12/2021 Kristen Keats, CPA | @kristenkeatscpa Sherwood, OR breakawayba.com | cadencia.io Hello and welcome. We are the Sons of CPAs. Join us as we question the current state of the accounting and tax industry with the next generation of professionals leading this space, we are the change agents in an industry fraught with money and inertia. Let's begin The Sons of CPAs with your hosts, Zachary Call and Scott Scarano. ***shout out to Kelsey*** ***shout out to Shea*** ***shout out to Martin*** ***shout out to Twyla*** ***shout out to LySki***
Bonus · Wed, September 29, 2021
#5minLy | Customer Service is Where We Win
Sons of CPAs Episode 18 Bonus #5minLy | Customer Service is Where We Win Episode 09 PERFORMANCE | SERVICE #5minLy defined: Sons of CPAs Bonus episodes where Michael Ly and Scott Scarano discuss some choice topics about running their modern accounting firms.
Sun, September 26, 2021
018 Monetizing Advisory as a Product (feat. Kathy Gregory)
Episode #18 Monetizing Advisory as a Product (feat. Kathy Gregory) recorded 7/6/2021 Kathy Gregory | @KathyGregory1 | liveplan.com Eugene, OR Hello and welcome. We are the Sons of CPAs. Join us as we question the current state of the accounting and tax industry with the next generation of professionals leading this space, we are the change agents in an industry fraught with money and inertia. Let's begin The Sons of CPAs with your hosts, Jason Ackerman and Scott Scarano. 4 The kismet of Kathy finding Palo Alto Software ***shout out to Tim Berry*** 9 Define Management Accounting 10 How do I monetize advisory? 14 Kathy, we have a lawsuit… 18 Time should not be tracked to set prices… 19 What do you think accounting firms are doing wrong? 22 How do we service our clients the best? 27 What do small businesses want from an Advisor? ***shout out to Sabrina Parsons*** ***shout out to Mark Wickersham*** ***shout out to Ron Baker*** ***shout out to Ian Vacin*** ***shout out to David Cristello*** 32 Kathy, what’s your relationship with your accountant? 36 Selling predictability 39 Monetizing opportunities 40 Selling without selling 45 Give a firm or an accountant one piece of advice they can take away from this…
Bonus · Fri, September 24, 2021
#5minLy | HR Services or People Advisory?
Sons of CPAs Episode 17 Bonus #5minLy | HR Services or People Advisory? Episode 08 BENEFITS | CONSULTING | ADVISORY Hello and welcome. We are all the Sons of CPAs. Join us with this week's #5minLy with your hosts Michael Ly and Scott Scarano. #5minLy defined: Sons of CPAs Bonus episodes where Michael Ly and Scott Scarano discuss some choice articles from #LizMasonContent. https://www.accountingweb.com/practice/practice-excellence/why-should-an-accountant-offer-human-resources
Sat, September 18, 2021
017 Our Fairy CPAmother (feat. Amanda Aguillard, CPA)
Episode #17 Our Fairy CPAmother (feat. Amanda Aguillard, CPA) recorded 6/28/2021 Amanda Aguillard, CPA | @AguillardAcct Aguillard Accounting | Elefant Training | Accounting Salon | Padgett’s COO | Xero: A Comprehensive Guide Hello and welcome. We are the Sons of CPAs. Join us as we question the current state of the accounting and tax industry with the next generation of professionals leading this space, we are the change agents in an industry fraught with money and inertia. Let's begin The Sons of CPAs with your hosts, Jason Ackerman and Scott Scarano. 12 THE BIRTH OF…Aguillard Accounting ***shout out to Monica*** 14 THE BIRTH OF…Elefant Training 22 THE BIRTH OF… Padgett’s COO ***shout out to Roger Harris*** 26 THE BIRTH OF… The Xero Book ***shout out to Gretchen Rubin*** ***shout out to Rod Drury*** 33 THE BIRTH OF… Accounting Salon ***shout out to Doug Sleeter*** ***shout out to Clayton Oates*** ***shout out to Rachel Fisch*** ***shout out to David Leary*** ***shout out to Heather Satterley*** ***shout out to Jay Kimelman*** ***shout out to Liz Mason*** ***shout out to Jim Jones*** ***shout out to Blake*** 41 THE BIRTH OF… SalonV
Bonus · Thu, September 16, 2021
#5minLy | The Uniqueness of Subscriptions
Sons of CPAs Episode 16 Bonus #5minLy | The Uniqueness of Subscriptions Episode 07 PERFORMANCE | PRICING Hello and welcome. We are all the Sons of CPAs. Join us with this week's #5minLy with your hosts Michael Ly and Scott Scarano. #5minLy defined: Sons of CPAs Bonus episodes where Michael Ly and Scott Scarano discuss some choice articles from Saasable Content . https://www.getsaasable.com/how-to-choose-which-subscription-model-is-right-for-your-product
Sun, September 12, 2021
016 Big Dick Energy (feat. Lorilyn Wilson, CPA)
Episode #16 Big Dick Energy (feat. Lorilyn Wilson) recorded 6/21/2021 Lorilyn Wilson, CPA | @Lorilynwilson https://highrock.co/nucleus/ Hello and welcome. We are the Sons of CPAs. Join us as we question the current state of the accounting and tax industry with the next generation of professionals leading this space, we are the change agents in an industry fraught with money and inertia. 12 Oluko = enterprise asynchronous learning platform 17 Advisors, CFOs, CPAs unite 19 Look Ahead… 22 Are you living your best life? 25 Stress triggers 27 Seasonal depression is a real thing 29 You have to take time for yourself 31 An outgoing introvert 35 Can we talk about digital assets? 37 What's a bot? 41 Build a lifestyle firm to realize your own dreams
Bonus · Thu, September 09, 2021
#5minLy | Client Success Teams
#5minLy | Client Success Teams Episode 06 GROWTH | EFFICIENCY Hello and welcome. We are all the Sons of CPAs. Join us with this weeks #5minLy with your hosts Michael Ly and Scott Scarano. #5minLy defined: 1. A period of time equal to about a twelfth of an hour, sometimes an eighth... 2. Sons of CPAs Bonus episodes where Michael Ly and Scott Scarano discuss some choice articles from Karbon Magazine https://karbonhq.com/resources/if-you-standardize-one-process-this-year-make-it-this-one/
Mon, September 06, 2021
015 The Podfather (feat. Blake Oliver, CPA)
Episode #15 The Podfather (feat. Blake Oliver, CPA) recorded 6/14/2021 Blake Oliver, Founder of The Cloud Accounting Podcast Hello and welcome. We are the Sons of CPAs. Join us as we question the current state of the accounting and tax industry with the next generation of professionals leading this space, we are the change agents in an industry fraught with money and inertia. Let's begin The Sons of CPAs with your hosts, Jason Ackerman and Scott Scarano. 2 the Cello and Money and growing up in a Gentile bubble 36 larger CPA firms are giant pyramid schemes 38 what’s a product marketer? 40 ExpensiCon 3.0 on Mars 41 an almost fully automated engagement for $1k/mo 42 software companies are so weird 46 Dude SCOTT! for the love of God, let him SPEAK! 47 the next generation of firm owners 50 tips for better podcasting 1.0 ok Blake, did you track TIME? 1.3 will tax software ever be on the cloud? 1.4 will HubDoc ever be inside of Xero? 1.5 Blake’s side project, EarMark! 1.8 CPAs creating their own CPE courses for podcasts! 1.11 the best stuff in our profession is professionals talking to professionals 1.13 shout out to Rod Drury for creating Blake, a Greek God
Bonus · Fri, September 03, 2021
#5minLy | Back on Slack
Sons of CPAs Episode 14 Bonus #5minLy | Back on Slack Episode 05 WORK-LIFE | WORKING REMOTELY Hello and welcome. We are all the Sons of CPAs. Join us with this week's #5minLy with your hosts Michael Ly and Scott Scarano. https://karbonhq.com/resources/how-to-solve-the-5-main-communication-challenges-of-working-remotely/ #5minLy defined: 1. A period of time equal to about a twelfth of an hour, sometimes an eighth... 2. This week Michael Ly and Scott Scarano discuss a choice article from Karbon Magazine
Wed, September 01, 2021
014 Kicking PITAss and Taking Names (feat. Stephanie Holt)
Episode #14 Kicking PITAs and Taking Names (feat. Stephanie Holt) recorded 6/14/2021 Stephanie Holt, Head Guru Cloud Accounting & Consulting 1 Ackerman’s hoity-toity food blog https://scallionpancake.com/blog/catbirdseat 2 why’d you go the bookkeeper route and not the tax route? 3 people helping people 5 working in the deep south with good ol boys is exhausting 6 marginalized change agents 8 finding losses in the gains 10 transparency and accountability 11 the key to breaking bad habits 14 getting snowballed by some ex’s 18 break to pay the kids tutor 19 how do you go about firing a client? 21 do you rate your clients and give out PITA factors? ***shout out to Ed at Tax 1099*** 23 not firing clients…raising prices 26 working with the Steady Eddies 28 setting expectations and the roadmap to success
Sat, August 28, 2021
013 Propagating our Problems as Practitioners (feat. David Emmerman, EA)
Episode #13 recorded on May 24, 2021 “FOMO Dave” Emmerman, EA Hello and welcome. We are the Sons of CPAs. Join us as we question the current state of the accounting and tax industry with the next generation of professionals leading this space, we are the change agents in an industry fraught with money and inertia. Let's begin The Sons of CPAs with your hosts, Jason Ackerman and Scott Scarano. 4 Both Dave’s parents had practices! 5 should out to the year-old Newfoundland puppy, Sophie! 8 The challenges with buying 14 practices in 9 years! 9 topping out at 1,000 returns per partner! That’s insane… 13 providing value through conversations 15 underpricing individual tax returns = undercutting ourselves as an industry 19 Dave’s Doc Brown Moment! 24 The art of getting Team buy-in 25 flying from NY to SF, Dave's first visit to the Xero office ***shout out to Frankie*** 27 Finding Your Vertical 30 from 80/20 Tax/Accounting to a 50/50 split! 33 An industry that is ripe for change and making an impact as an ambassador for change ***shout out to Ben Richmond*** 35 leaving the rat race to actualize your real potential 36 selling off your practice 37 commanding a higher valuation by being tech-forward 41 what do you think is holding Xero back in the US? ***shout out to Xero (here’s another free one)*** 44 brand recognition 48 propagating problems 52 don’t sell benefits to accountants 53 the US market is now the #1 focus for the Xero product team 54 working at Xero and Dave’s favorite tax season
Bonus · Wed, August 25, 2021
#5minLy | The Voice of the Heroes + the Coach
#5minLy | The Voice of the Heroes + the Coach Episode 04 GROWTH | STRATEGY | PERFORMANCE Hello and welcome. We are all the Sons of CPAs. Join us with this week's #5minLy with Michael Ly where we feature an article of our choice from Karbon Magazine with your hosts Michael Ly and Scott Scarano. https://karbonhq.com/resources/how-to-optimize-visibility-across-your-firm-to-uncover-growth-opportunities/
Sun, August 22, 2021
012 Reverse Engineering your Firm (feat. Kenji Kuramoto, CEO)
Episode #12 Reverse Engineering your Firm (feat. Kenji Kuramoto, CEO) recorded 5/17/2021 Kenji+ Kuramoto, CPA https://acuity.co/ Hello and welcome. We are all the Sons of CPAs. Join us as we question the current state of the accounting and tax industry with the next generation of professionals leading this space, we are all the change agents in an industry fraught with money and inertia. Let's begin The Sons of CPAs with your hosts, Jason Ackerman and Scott Scarano. 1 big time CEO here, holy triple digits! 2 Arthur Anderson 4 Big public accounting experience 8 You have to want to play that game to get to Partner 10 backing into things as an entrepreneur 13 people hire you because they like you? 14 are you smart or are you nice? ***shout out to Josh Lance*** 17 CRYPTO 18 it’s fun to find some Niches ***shout out to Will Lopez*** 25 CFO World vs Tax World 27 billing Time and Hours ***shout out to Liz Mason*** 35 Working in the pricing matrix 36 how do you tell a client they’re not a good fit? 39 what’s one mistake you made at Acuity? 40 Growing fast and losing money 41 Customer Success and Customer Retention ***shout out to Delighted*** https://delighted.com/ ***shout out to SalesForce*** salesforce.com 45 going after the ScaleFactor team, post bust 47 shout out to the 18 official Acuity TechStack Partners
Bonus · Thu, August 19, 2021
#5minLy | Work-life Harmony
#5minLy | Work-life Harmony Episode 03 1. A period of time equal to about a twelfth of an hour, sometimes an eighth... 2. Michael Ly and Scott Scarano discuss a choice article from Karbon Magazine https://karbonhq.com/resources/how-to-break-the-always-on-cycle-and-boost-productivity/
Sun, August 15, 2021
011 Beyond Building Momentum (feat. Nikole Mackenzie, CPA)
Episode #11 Beyond Building Momentum (feat. Nikole Mackenzie, CPA) recorded 5/10/2021 Nikole Mackenzie, CPA https://momentumaccounting.com/ Hello and welcome. We are the Sons of CPAs. Join us as we question the current state of the accounting and tax industry with the next generation of professionals leading this space, we are the change agents in an industry fraught with money and inertia. Let's begin The Sons of CPAs with your hosts, Jason Ackerman and Scott Scarano. 0 https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Harem 2 the parallels of sports and business 3 shout out to Tammy 4 as a woman, tackling another woman 5 picking up golf during COVID 7 working with an NFL player who was paying $400k in accounting fees! ***NOT sponsor slot*** (kidding, Bill.com ) ***NOT sponsor slot*** (kidding, Go Proposal?) 11 working with no scope 20 shout out to the Momentum Team 25 what’s the ultimate goal for Momentum? 27 shout out to Will Lopez 29 why do you think it’s important that the team has excess capacity? 32 what do you use to measure scope? ***NOT sponsor slot*** (what’s up, Practice Ignition?) 34 TIME 37 remember Xero’s payroll module? 39 when does a client need to hire Momentum? 41 Momentum’s ideal client! ***NOT sponsor slot*** (shout out to QuickBooks Desktop, JUST KIDDING) 42 leverage technology to automate what we do 43 the problems with the family business 44 shout out to Marcus 45 do you get an ROI on the time spent on LinkedIn? 46 ProVisors 50 what piece of technology is missing in the accounting space? 52 creating recurring revenue through automation
Bonus · Fri, August 13, 2021
#5minLy | The Cult of Personality
#5minLy | The Cult of Personality Episode 02 https://karbonhq.com/resources/building-a-strong-accounting-firm-culture/ "#5minLy defined" 1. A period of time equal to about a twelfth of an hour, sometimes an eighth... 2. Michael Ly and Scott Scarano discuss a choice article from Karbon Magazine https://karbonhq.com/resources/building-a-strong-accounting-firm-culture/
Sat, August 07, 2021
010 Paperless since 1999 - The Oracle, Queen, Wizard, and Trailblazer (feat. Donna Bordeaux, CPA)
Episode #10 Paperless since 1999 - The Oracle, Queen, Wizard, and Trailblazer (feat. Donna Bordeaux, CPA) recorded 5/5/2021 Donna Bordeaux, CPA https://calculatedmoves.com/ Hello and welcome. We are the Sons of CPAs. Join us as we question the current state of the accounting and tax industry with the next generation of professionals leading this space, we are the change agents in an industry fraught with money and inertia. Let's begin The Sons of CPAs with your hosts, Jason Ackerman and Scott Scarano. We could have called this, the children of CPAs, but that kind of sounds like a horror movie. 3 **sponsor slot** (sup? Xero) 4 paperless in 1999 6 outsourcing in 2005 8 develop or document a process 9 clients want results 10 falling into a Niche market Pottery Studios 12 Niche #2 Campgrounds! 18 Pricing your Niche clients 18 Marketing your Niche clients 20 using client’s Tax Waste to justify your Prices 21 Advisory clients vs DIY clients 24 focused 100% on MRR 25 the future, Automation of routine tasks 28 automating the sales process 30 TAX 31 **sponsor slot** (sup? LivePlan) 32 Cash registers and Calculators 33 Numbers and Technology 35 a business you can work ON not IN 37 don’t work with anyone you can’t provide value to 39 World Domination 42 Changing your Firm Name 44 The Trailblazers 45 shout out to Marjorie in Texas 48 being the Queen in the Chess of Life 50 King and Queen CPA firms
Bonus · Thu, August 05, 2021
#5minLy | The Onboarding Passport
#5minLy | The Onboarding Passport Episode 01 https://karbonhq.com/resources/get-new-hires-up-to-speed-quickly-and-painlessly-by-mastering-staff-onboarding/ "5minLy defined" noun a period of time equal to about a twelfth of an hour - https://karbonhq.com/resources/get-new-hires-up-to-speed-quickly-and-painlessly-by-mastering-staff-onboarding/
Tue, August 03, 2021
009 Total Control Accounting (feat. Marcus Mire, CPA)
Episode #9 Total Control Accounting (feat. Marcus Mire, CPA) recorded April 14, 2021 Marcus Mire, CPA https://mire.group/ 5 shout out to Stephanie Mire 5 shout out to Tyler Warner 14 **sponsor slot** (just kidding, Practice Ignition) 19 **sponsor slot** (just kidding, Practice Ignition) 21 shout out to Quentin, John, and Stephanie 26 shout out to Niks 26 shout out to Acuity 30 shout out to Zachary Call 39 shout out to Cal Newport 40 Ackerman thinks he figured out the cause of COVID-19 43 TIME 50 the birth of Total Control Accounting, shout out to Tyler 55 shout out to Stephanie 55 **sponsor slot** (just kidding, Gusto) 55 **sponsor slot** (just kidding, Xero)
Mon, July 26, 2021
008 FlyAccounting and Padgett (feat. Jeff Phillips, CEO)
Episode #8 FlyAccounting and Padgett (feat. Jeff Phillips, CEO) recorded April 7, 2021 Twitter @jeffphillips_ https://www.accountingfly.com/ twitter @accountingfly 1 son of an EA 3 Baylor’s 2021 National Champion 5 shout out to Bruce Phillips (no relation) 6 grinding it out with AccountingFly 8 the biggest challenges for firms today 9 product-market fit 11 leadership during a crisis 13 managing people remotely 14 obsessed with systems and systems of systems 17 **sponsor slot** (just kidding, AccountingFly) 20 I’m going to hire someone that’s going to live in an RV for a month 22 Padgett: making the franchise model in accounting work 27 what’s your vision for Padgett? 28 how do you get Baby Boomers to modernize? 30 the partnership model in accounting today 32 we do talk about TIME a lot 34 tracking time as a leading indicator 36 the problem with working at the big 4 38 owning Going Concern 42 if you’re making tons of money, why do you need to change? 45 generational talent suppression 48 $150 tax returns!? 50 **sponsor slot** (just kidding, AICPA) 50 **sponsor slot** (just kidding, Thompson Reuters) 52 the current technology stack
Trailer · Sat, July 24, 2021
FlyAccounting and Padgett... The Trailer (feat. Jeff Phillips, CEO)
subscribe and tune in for the full episode!
Mon, July 19, 2021
007 Lance Ignition is the Future of Tax and CAS (feat. Josh Lance, CPA)
Episode 7 Joshua Lance, CPA - recorded on March 24, 2021 (RIP Josh) Founder of https://lancecpa.com/ and Table HR https://tablehr.co/ Head of Accounting at https://www.practiceignition.com/ Adjunct Faculty at https://www.northwestern.edu/ & https://www.uvm.edu/ twitter @lancejd1 josh@lancecpa.com Joshlance.com 1 a firm, a group, and a practice 2 introverts and jerks 5 do the opposite - https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=rag0Z1nTJOc 9 your firm vertical or niche or niché 10 creating a client community 13 standardizing processes 15 restructuring your 18 person firm 20 stop giving away free advice 21 identifying advisory accountants and compliance tax preparers 24 team titles 25 introverted visionaries and extroverted integrators 26 community, clients, consultants, and careers 27 **sponsor slot** (just kidding, practice ignition) 30 getting your processes in order 32 put your money where your mouth is 34 TIME 35 tracking time as a leading indicator 36 time as a capacity planning metric 41 getting rid of time and bringing it back 45 how to make an Ackerman quit your firm 47 time is a crutch 49 lab rats and the rat race and employees 51 **sponsor slot** (just kidding, Xero) 52 **sponsor slot** (just kidding, Karbon) 53 Lotus + Accelo + Trello = Karbon
Trailer · Sun, July 18, 2021
Lance Ignition the Trailer (feat. Joshua Lance, CPA)
Josh Lance of Lance CPA Group explains how he divides his time and his role as Head of the Accounting Community at Practice Ignition... Stay tuned for the full episode this week!
Mon, July 12, 2021
006 Tax to Books to RPAs to Scorecarding, Oh my! (feat. Jason Staats, CPA)
Episode 6 Brenner CPA - https://www.brennercpa.com/ Realize - https://rlz.io/ Jason Staats, CPA - https://twitter.com/jstaatscpa
Trailer · Sat, July 10, 2021
#StaatSnacks The Trailer (feat. Jason Staats, CPA)
Brenner CPA - https://www.brennercpa.com/ Realize - https://rlz.io/ Jason Staats, CPA - https://twitter.com/jstaatscpa The full episode coming soon... sonsofcpas@gmail.com (845) 535-1099
Sun, July 04, 2021
005 The Impetus to People Advisory (feat. Will Lopez)
Episode 5 Happy 4th of July!!
Trailer · Sat, July 03, 2021
"Impetus to People Advisory" The Trailer (feat. Will Lopez)
our very first trailer! sonsofcpas@gmail.com (845) 535-1099
Sun, June 27, 2021
004 Do you do $125 Tax Returns? (feat. Zachary Call, CPA)
Episode 4 The Titular Episode and The Third Son | Zachary Call, CPA of Call, Weaver, & House CPAs | Since 1969, WCH has been helping businesses and families in Salt Lake City and around the United States fulfill their dreams and achieve their fullest potential. Website https://wch-cpa.com/ - Meet the Sons of CPAs - Jason Ackerman, CPA bnacpa.com/about/our-team - Scott Scarano, EA padgettnc.com/padgett-business-services-team - thank you to D.J.S. 11:11 for the beautiful intro music; https://soundcloud.com/djs1111
Mon, June 21, 2021
003 Asian Intelligence (feat. Michael Ly)
Episode 3 The Michael Ly - Reconciled - getreconciled.co/merge-with-reconciled/ - 2018 USA Firm of the Future - www.youtube.com/watch?v=6qPjDrMkGBY - Palm Pilots - www.ebay.com/b/Palm-Pilot-PDAs/38331/bn_36843074 - Predictable Revenue - https://predictablerevenue.com/author/aaronross - Meet the Sons of CPAs - Jason Ackerman, CPA bnacpa.com/about/our-team - Scott Scarano, EA padgettnc.com/padgett-business-services-team
Tue, June 15, 2021
002 Two and a Half Jews (feat. Liz Mason, CPA)
Episode 2 - Liz Mason, CPA highrock.co/team - Jason Ackerman, CPA bnacpa.com/about/our-team - Scott Scarano, EA padgettnc.com/padgett-business-services-team
Wed, June 09, 2021
001 Values, Culture, and Teams
Episode 1 OUR TEAMS: Jason Ackerman, CPA BNAcpa.com/about/our-team/ Scott Scarano, EA PadgettNC.com/padgett-business-services-team thank you to D.J.S. 11:11 for the intro music; https://soundcloud.com/djs1111
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