Explorez tous les épisodes du podcast Accounting Voices

How are the most successful accountants navigating the rapid changes in technology, regulation, and talent shortages? What secrets are the top industry leaders using to stay ahead in this ever-evolving landscape?

Rob Brown leads a dynamic panel discussion with industry leaders Randy Johnston, Harry Blum, Jennifer O'Carroll, and Trevor Greenway. They discuss the profound shifts happening in the accounting profession today, from the impact of private equity to the essential role of technology and the future of talent management. The conversation explores through the challenges and opportunities presented by AI, regulatory changes, and the evolving role of accountants as trusted advisors. 

The panelists provide actionable advice on how firms can embrace change, enhance their value propositions, and future-proof their businesses. They also discuss the critical importance of upskilling, the integration of technology, and the need for accountants to adapt to a rapidly changing environment. Whether you're a firm owner, a practicing accountant, or someone interested in the future of the profession, this episode is packed with valuable takeaways.

Key Takeaways:

✓ AI is transforming how accountants operate by automating routine tasks and providing deeper insights through data analysis.

✓ As technology continues to advance, accountants must develop new skills to keep pace. This includes learning to use advanced software tools, understanding data security, and becoming proficient in data analysis.

✓ The growing involvement of private equity in the accounting sector is changing traditional business models. Private equity firms bring significant capital and a focus on efficiency, which can lead to innovations but also challenges to established practices.

✓ The accounting industry is experiencing a shift from compliance-based services to advisory roles. This change is driven by the decreasing profitability of compliance work due to automation and regulatory changes. Firms that want to thrive must pivot towards offering more value-added advisory services, where they can provide strategic insights and guidance to their clients, rather than just focusing on routine tasks.

✓ A firm’s culture and sense of purpose are key to attracting and retaining top talent. In an environment where competition for skilled accountants is fierce, organizations that clearly define their mission and foster a positive, inclusive culture will stand out. 

Quotes:

"Different is not always better, but better is always different." - Harry Blum

"Accountants aren't just number crunchers; they're the key to unlocking business success." - Rob Brown

"The future of accounting isn't about compliance, it's about being a proactive, trusted advisor." - Trevor Greenway

"If you're not leveraging AI, you're already behind the curve." - Randy Johnston

View this episode in video on YouTube here: https://youtu.be/g0ewmI109bE

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The Accounting Influencers Podcast, hosted by Rob Brown, is one of the world's leading shows for accounting leaders, professionals, finance specialists, software vendors, tech providers and influencers.

Thanks to our sponsors:

ADVANCETRACK OUTSOURCING. Transform your accounting firm with AdvanceTrack. Our top-tier offshoring solutions free your team from mundane tasks, allowing you to focus on growth and client engagement. Experience seamless scalability and expert support. Visit advancetrack.com and elevate your practice today. https://www.advancetrack.com

ACCOUNTEX. Bringing the accounting world together with UK and international events for the accounting and tech world.

Are AI and ChatGPT revolutionizing business advisory services? How can accountants leverage these tools to deliver more value to their clients?

Rob Brown and Mark Wickersham, an expert in value pricing and AI applications for accountants, tackles the world of ChatGPT and artificial intelligence, exploring how these technologies are transforming the accounting profession, particularly in the realm of business advisory services.

Mark shares his insights on how AI can help accountants overcome time constraints and boost confidence in providing strategic advice. He discusses the potential of ChatGPT for ideation, research, and strategy development, emphasizing that while AI is a powerful tool, it won't replace human expertise. The conversation covers practical applications, best practices, and ethical considerations for integrating AI into accounting workflows.

Key Takeaways:

✓ ChatGPT excels at ideation, research, and strategy development for business advisory

✓ AI can help accountants overcome time constraints and confidence issues in providing advisory services

✓ Accountants need to adapt to AI to stay relevant and maintain a competitive edge

✓ ChatGPT can analyze financial data and provide insights for client meetings

✓ The value is in the conversation with clients, not just in AI-generated reports 

Quotes:

"AI is not going to replace us. It's how our competitors are going to use AI that's going to replace us."

View this episode in video on YouTube here: https://youtu.be/jFQfxfl1W7A

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The Accounting Influencers Podcast, hosted by Rob Brown, is one of the world's leading shows for accounting leaders, professionals, finance specialists, software vendors, tech providers and influencers.

Thanks to our sponsors:

ADVANCETRACK OUTSOURCING. Transform your accounting firm with AdvanceTrack. Our top-tier offshoring solutions free your team from mundane tasks, allowing you to focus on growth and client engagement. Experience seamless scalability and expert support. Visit advancetrack.com and elevate your practice today. https://www.advancetrack.com

ACCOUNTEX. Bringing the accounting world together with UK and international events for the accounting and tech world. https://www.accountex.co.uk

If you'd like to sponsor the show and elevate your brand with our audience, reach out to show host Rob Brown on LinkedIn and his team will reach out to fix up a chat to explore.

https://www.linkedin.com/in/therobbrown

You can also check out all shows on the Accounting Influencers YouTube Channel:

https://bit.ly/AI-youtube

Is accounting really a dying profession? Or is it on the cusp of an exciting revolution?

Rob Brown brings together a panel of industry experts to debate the future of accounting. Despite current challenges, the panelists paint a picture of a profession ripe with opportunity for those willing to embrace change and innovation.

The discussion covers critical issues facing the accounting world, including talent shortages, technological disruption, and the need to rebrand the profession to attract new generations. The panelists offer insightful perspectives on how firms can adapt their business models, leverage technology, and create more fulfilling career paths. While acknowledging the hurdles, there's a strong sense of optimism about accounting's vital role in helping businesses succeed and the diverse opportunities available to those entering the field.

Key Takeaways:

✓ The accounting profession needs to rebrand itself to attract new talent

✓ Firms should move away from the "minnow management" business model to improve profitability and work-life balance

✓ Technology vendors need to work more closely with accountants to develop truly useful solutions

✓ Involving next-gen talent in technology decisions can help drive innovation in firms

✓ There's a need to make the profession more inclusive and representative of the community 

Quotable Moments: 

"Accountants are the superheroes of the economy." - Renee Moelders 

"The only thing that's consistent in our firm is change." - Andrew Berg

 "We need to celebrate the successes and focus on the good things about the profession." - Sona Akmakjian

View this episode in video on YouTube here: https://youtu.be/QjI8E_kI8Z4

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The Accounting Influencers Podcast, hosted by Rob Brown, is one of the world's leading shows for accounting leaders, professionals, finance specialists, software vendors, tech providers and influencers.

Thanks to our sponsors:

ADVANCETRACK OUTSOURCING. Transform your accounting firm with AdvanceTrack. Our top-tier offshoring solutions free your team from mundane tasks, allowing you to focus on growth and client engagement. Experience seamless scalability and expert support. Visit advancetrack.com and elevate your practice today. https://www.advancetrack.com

ACCOUNTEX. Bringing the accounting world together with UK and international events for the accounting and tech world. https://www.accountex.co.uk

If you'd like to sponsor the show and elevate your brand with our audience, reach out to show host Rob Brown on LinkedIn and his team will reach out to fix up a chat to explore.

https://www.linkedin.com/in/therobbrown

You can also check out all shows on the Accounting Influencers YouTube Channel:

https://bit.ly/AI-youtube

In this insightful episode, Rob Brown delves into the world of accounting firm valuations and sales with Brannon Poe. They discuss the current trend of consolidation within the industry, driven by the influx of private equity money and the large number of accounting professionals nearing retirement age.

Brannon shares his expertise on the key factors that make an accounting practice valuable and sellable, including profitability, owner hours, location, and specialization.

The conversation explores the various types of buyers for accounting firms, such as individual buyers, private equity firms, and strategic acquisitions by other firms. 

Brannon emphasizes the importance of understanding a buyer's motivations and ensuring a good fit, as selling a firm involves more than just financial considerations – it's about preserving client relationships and taking care of staff.

In addition, he also offers practical advice for firm owners looking to maximize their firm's value before a sale, including purging unprofitable clients, raising prices, and focusing on specific service lines. He encourages accountants with an entrepreneurial spirit to consider starting their own niche boutique firm, as it can provide greater control over building a sellable asset.

Key Takeaways:

• Location, profitability, and owner hours are crucial factors in determining an accounting firm's value and saleability.
• Specialization and avoiding being a generalist firm increase efficiency and profitability, making a firm more attractive to buyers.
• Understanding the motivations and fit of potential buyers (individual, private equity, or strategic acquisition) is essential for a successful sale.
• Purging unprofitable clients, raising prices, and focusing on specific service lines can significantly increase a firm's value before a sale.
• Starting a niche boutique firm can be a viable option for entrepreneurial accountants, allowing them to build a sellable asset tailored to their vision.

Quotes:

"If you've got low owner hours and high profitability, you're going to command a more premium price for your firm, and it's probably going to sell faster." - Brannon Poe

"If you're wired a certain way, you're going to do (DO WHAT?)it anyway. So just go ahead and do it sooner rather than later." - Brannon Poe

View this episode in video on YouTube here:

https://youtu.be/MZwyyxsbkUs

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The Accounting Influencers Podcast, hosted by Rob Brown, is one of the world's leading shows for accounting leaders, professionals, finance specialists, software vendors, tech providers and influencers. To participate in our international virtual speed networking events for the accounting community, book your place at the next gathering. Great for building your personal brand and making valuable industry connections in return for a small donation to charity: https://accountinginfluencers.com/events

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Thanks to our sponsors:

ADVANCETRACK OUTSOURCING. Transform your accounting firm with AdvanceTrack. Our top-tier offshoring solutions free your team from mundane tasks, allowing you to focus on growth and client engagement. Experience seamless scalability and expert support. Visit advancetrack.com and elevate your practice today. https://www.advancetrack.com

ACCOUNTEX. Bringing the accounting world together with UK and international events for the accounting and tech world. https://www.accountex.co.uk

If you'd like to sponsor the show and elevate your brand with our audience, reach out to...

Is the accounting profession facing extinction or evolution? What does the future hold for accountants in a world of AI and rapid technological change?

Rob Brown engages in a lively discussion with industry experts David Osborne, Katie Thomas, and Tom Hood about the current state and future of the accounting profession. The panel share their thoughts about the challenges that accountants are facing today, including talent shortages, technological disruption, and changing client expectations.

The conversation covers a wide range of topics, from the impact of AI and cloud technology on accounting practices to the need for a cultural shift in how firms treat their employees. The experts share insights on attracting and retaining talent, the importance of embracing change, and why, despite challenges, this is an exciting time to be in the accounting profession. They also discuss the role of marketing, the evolution of accounting education, and the need to rebrand the profession to appeal to a new generation of professionals.

Key Takeaways:

✓ AI and technology are not threats but tools to enhance accounting practices

✓ The talent pipeline issue is complex, involving culture, pay, and industry perception

✓ Firms need to adapt their business models and culture to attract and retain talent

✓ Marketing is essential for attracting better clients and staying relevant in a changing market

✓ The accounting profession is undergoing a transformative period, offering exciting opportunities for those who embrace change 

Quotes:

"Human capital is an asset, not an expense." - Tom Hood

"We're not tied to a physical location. We have tools and resources that allow us to work from wherever." - Katie Thomas

View this episode in video on YouTube here: https://youtu.be/dOQqmlHZsLI

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The Accounting Influencers Podcast, hosted by Rob Brown, is one of the world's leading shows for accounting leaders, professionals, finance specialists, software vendors, tech providers and influencers.

Thanks to our sponsors:

ADVANCETRACK OUTSOURCING. Transform your accounting firm with AdvanceTrack. Our top-tier offshoring solutions free your team from mundane tasks, allowing you to focus on growth and client engagement. Experience seamless scalability and expert support. Visit advancetrack.com and elevate your practice today. https://www.advancetrack.com

ACCOUNTEX. Bringing the accounting world together with UK and international events for the accounting and tech world. https://www.accountex.co.uk

If you'd like to sponsor the show and elevate your brand with our audience, reach out to show host Rob Brown on LinkedIn and his team will reach out to fix up a chat to explore.

https://www.linkedin.com/in/therobbrown

You can also check out all shows on the Accounting Influencers YouTube Channel:

https://bit.ly/AI-youtube

Are you ready to unlock the full potential of AI in accounting and finance? How can Azure OpenAI revolutionize the way financial professionals work?

In this special bonus episode of the Accounting Influencers podcast, Rob Brown explores the world of artificial intelligence with Microsoft experts Jas Brar and Matt Quinn. The conversation explores how AI, particularly Azure OpenAI, is transforming the accounting and finance sector, offering new opportunities for efficiency, insight, and value creation.

Jas and Matt discuss the evolution of AI from traditional rule-based systems to more sophisticated generative AI, emphasizing how these technologies can augment human capabilities rather than replace them. They address common concerns about data security and privacy, explaining how Azure OpenAI provides a secure environment for businesses to leverage AI while maintaining control over their sensitive information. The experts also offer practical advice on how accounting professionals can start incorporating AI into their work, from using productivity tools like Copilot to partnering with IT teams for more complex implementations.

Key Takeaways:

✓ AI is evolving from rule-based systems to more sophisticated, context-aware models

✓ Azure OpenAI offers secure, private AI capabilities for businesses

✓ AI can help accountants shift from data crunching to more strategic, value-added activities

✓ Starting with productivity tools like Copilot can help professionals become comfortable with AI ✓ Successful AI implementation requires considering technology, processes, and people 

Quotes:

"I'd rather flip that on its head and that way, you know, I'm more confident in the decision we would want to make based on spending more time getting to the roots of different scenarios on the table." - Jas Brar 

"Always start with why, right? How do you think about what, why would I use this technology? It's not technology for technology's sake." - Matt Quinn

View this episode in video on YouTube here: https://youtu.be/gPru_OoGQSY

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The Accounting Influencers Podcast, hosted by Rob Brown, is one of the world's leading shows for accounting leaders, professionals, finance specialists, software vendors, tech providers and influencers.

Thanks to our sponsors:

ADVANCETRACK OUTSOURCING. Transform your accounting firm with AdvanceTrack. Our top-tier offshoring solutions free your team from mundane tasks, allowing you to focus on growth and client engagement. Experience seamless scalability and expert support. Visit advancetrack.com and elevate your practice today. https://www.advancetrack.com

ACCOUNTEX. Bringing the accounting world together with UK and international events for the accounting and tech world. https://www.accountex.co.uk

If you'd like to sponsor the show and elevate your brand with our audience, reach out to show host Rob Brown on LinkedIn and his team will reach out to fix up a chat to explore.

https://www.linkedin.com/in/therobbrown

You can also check out all shows on the Accounting Influencers YouTube Channel:

https://bit.ly/AI-youtube

Is your accounting firm struggling to keep up with technology? Are you curious about how tech adoption could impact your bottom line?

Rob Brown sits down with Joel Hughes of Rightworks to discuss the findings of their 2024 Accounting Firm Technology Survey. They delve into the current state of technology adoption in accounting firms, exploring the challenges and opportunities that come with embracing cloud-based, connected, and collaborative technologies.

Joel shares key insights from the survey, including the surprising statistic that firms on the technology-mature side of the spectrum reported 39% higher revenue per employee than average. The conversation covers topics such as the obstacles to tech adoption, the importance of cybersecurity, and the potential impact of AI on the accounting profession. Joel also emphasizes the need for firms to modernize their practices to gain a competitive advantage and improve client relationships.

Key Takeaways:

✓ Firms that are technology mature reported 39% higher revenue per employee than average

✓ The biggest challenges to tech adoption are lack of expertise, resources, and budget

✓ Cloud adoption can address cybersecurity concerns by providing managed security services

✓ Only 22% of firms reported a high percentage (75%+) of their clients using cloud technologies

✓ Firms need to align their technology adoption with their evolving business models to stay relevant 

Quotes:

"The shared vision of what you want your firm to be and how you want it to work needs to be enabled by technology." - Joel Hughes

View this episode in video on YouTube here: https://youtu.be/opSSeLuwCZk

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The Accounting Influencers Podcast, hosted by Rob Brown, is one of the world's leading shows for accounting leaders, professionals, finance specialists, software vendors, tech providers and influencers.

Thanks to our sponsors:

ADVANCETRACK OUTSOURCING. Transform your accounting firm with AdvanceTrack. Our top-tier offshoring solutions free your team from mundane tasks, allowing you to focus on growth and client engagement. Experience seamless scalability and expert support. Visit advancetrack.com and elevate your practice today. https://www.advancetrack.com

ACCOUNTEX. Bringing the accounting world together with UK and international events for the accounting and tech world. https://www.accountex.co.uk

If you'd like to sponsor the show and elevate your brand with our audience, reach out to show host Rob Brown on LinkedIn and his team will reach out to fix up a chat to explore.

https://www.linkedin.com/in/therobbrown

You can also check out all shows on the Accounting Influencers YouTube Channel:

https://bit.ly/AI-youtube

Is the accounting profession facing an identity crisis? Can it adapt to meet the demands of a rapidly changing business landscape?

Rob Brown brings together a panel of industry experts to discuss the future of accounting. Jeff Phillips, Maureen Dillmore, Samantha Louis, and Sandra Wiley share their perspectives on the challenges and opportunities facing the profession.

The panelists share their thoughts with various topics, including the talent shortage, the impact of technology, the changing business model, and the need for a rebrand of the accounting profession. They discuss the importance of work-life balance, the role of private equity, and the need for firms to adapt to survive in a competitive landscape. The conversation also touches on the potential of AI, the importance of strategic technology adoption, and the need for better compensation models to attract and retain talent.

Key Takeaways:

✓ The accounting profession needs to rebrand itself to attract new talent

✓ Firms need to adapt their business models and embrace change to survive

✓ Technology integration and strategic adoption are crucial for future success

✓ Work-life balance and flexible work arrangements are becoming increasingly important

✓ Private equity is reshaping the accounting firm landscape 

Quotes:

"Remote work is a great thing for our profession." - Jeff Phillips

"We need to get over the idea that you can't have a work-life balance if you work for an accounting firm." - Samantha Louis

View this episode in video on YouTube here: https://youtu.be/ZHg0IIw-wyU

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The Accounting Influencers Podcast, hosted by Rob Brown, is one of the world's leading shows for accounting leaders, professionals, finance specialists, software vendors, tech providers and influencers.

Thanks to our sponsors:

ADVANCETRACK OUTSOURCING. Transform your accounting firm with AdvanceTrack. Our top-tier offshoring solutions free your team from mundane tasks, allowing you to focus on growth and client engagement. Experience seamless scalability and expert support. Visit advancetrack.com and elevate your practice today. https://www.advancetrack.com

ACCOUNTEX. Bringing the accounting world together with UK and international events for the accounting and tech world. https://www.accountex.co.uk

If you'd like to sponsor the show and elevate your brand with our audience, reach out to show host Rob Brown on LinkedIn and his team will reach out to fix up a chat to explore.

https://www.linkedin.com/in/therobbrown

You can also check out all shows on the Accounting Influencers YouTube Channel:

https://bit.ly/AI-youtube

Is AI reshaping the accounting world? How can accountants harness the power of ChatGPT through prompt engineering?

Rob Brown sits down with Mark Wickersham, an expert in prompt engineering and AI applications for the accounting industry. They discussed the world of ChatGPT, exploring its potential to revolutionize accounting practices and the crucial skill of prompt engineering.

Mark Wickersham shares his journey with ChatGPT, emphasizing the importance of asking better questions to get better answers. He introduces the concept of prompt engineering as a vital communication skill in the AI era. 

The discussion covers various aspects of crafting effective prompts, from specifying roles and formats to considering the intended audience. Wickersham also provides practical examples of how accountants can leverage ChatGPT for tasks ranging from financial analysis to content creation, highlighting the tool's potential to dramatically increase productivity and enhance client services.

Key Takeaways:

• Prompt engineering is essentially communication with AI systems 
• Good prompts include specifying roles, response formats, and audience considerations 
• ChatGPT can be used for financial analysis, research, and business advisory in accounting firms 
• Mastering prompt engineering can save hours of work and open new opportunities for accountants 
• It's not AI that will replace accountants, but how competitors use AI that may make others irrelevant

View this episode in video on YouTube here: https://youtu.be/KTS58DjGvsg

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The Accounting Influencers Podcast, hosted by Rob Brown, is one of the world's leading shows for accounting leaders, professionals, finance specialists, software vendors, tech providers and influencers.

Thanks to our sponsors:

ADVANCETRACK OUTSOURCING. Transform your accounting firm with AdvanceTrack. Our top-tier offshoring solutions free your team from mundane tasks, allowing you to focus on growth and client engagement. Experience seamless scalability and expert support. Visit advancetrack.com and elevate your practice today. https://www.advancetrack.com

ACCOUNTEX. Bringing the accounting world together with UK and international events for the accounting and tech world. https://www.accountex.co.uk

If you'd like to sponsor the show and elevate your brand with our audience, reach out to show host Rob Brown on LinkedIn and his team will reach out to fix up a chat to explore.

https://www.linkedin.com/in/therobbrown

You can also check out all shows on the Accounting Influencers YouTube Channel:

https://bit.ly/AI-youtube

Is the accounting profession facing an existential crisis? How can accountants stay relevant in a rapidly changing world?

Rob Brown brings together three industry experts to discuss the future of accounting and the challenges facing the profession. Laura Day-Henderson, Michael Hsu, and Alan Morgan share their insights on the threats to accounting, the resistance to change within the industry, and the need for a shift in focus from compliance to advisory services.

The panel explores the role of technology, talent acquisition, and education in shaping the future of accounting. They discuss the importance of soft skills, the need for a more entrepreneurial mindset, and the potential for accountants to provide tremendous value to businesses. The conversation also touches on the role of professional bodies, the impact of AI, and the opportunities for specialization within the field.

Key Takeaways:

• Relevancy is a major challenge for the accounting profession 
• Resistance to change is holding accountants back from embracing new technologies and practices 
• There's a need to shift focus from compliance to advisory services and providing value to business owners 
• Education and training in technology, including AI and coding, will be crucial for accountants in the future 
• The accounting profession offers diverse opportunities for specialization and passion-driven careers 

Quotes:

"I think the biggest threat to us is ourselves. We have a resistance to change." - Laura Day-Henderson

"We need to start seeing the application of accounting to achieve dreams, aspirations of businesses, or even personal lives." - Michael Hsu

You can watch this episode and more on our YouTube Channel

https://youtu.be/piLILTD0rnc

Join the Accounting Influencers community and get invitations to our international speed networking events to build your personal brand and network in the accounting, finance and tech world: https://www.linkedin.com/company/accountinginfluencers

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The Accounting Influencers Podcast, hosted by Rob Brown, is one of the world's leading shows for accounting leaders, professionals, finance specialists, software vendors, tech providers and influencers. To participate in our international virtual speed networking events for the accounting community, book your place at the next gathering. Great for building your personal brand and making valuable industry connections in return for a small donation to charity: https://accountinginfluencers.com/events

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Thanks to our sponsors:

ADVANCETRACK OUTSOURCING. Transform your accounting firm with AdvanceTrack. Our top-tier offshoring solutions free your team from mundane tasks, allowing you to focus on growth and client engagement. Experience seamless scalability and expert support. Visit advancetrack.com and elevate your practice today. https://www.advancetrack.com

ACCOUNTEX. Bringing the accounting world together with UK and international events for the accounting and tech world. https://www.accountex.co.uk

If you'd like to sponsor the show and elevate your brand with our audience, reach out to show host Rob Brown on LinkedIn and his team will reach out to fix up a chat to explore.

https://www.linkedin.com/in/therobbrown

You can...

Is the accounting profession facing an existential crisis? Or is it on the brink of unprecedented opportunities?

Rob Brown assembles a panel of industry experts to dissect the current state and future prospects of the accounting profession. Jean Caragher, Jeremy Clopton, Rick Telberg, and Tamera Loerzel bring their wealth of experience to the table, offering insights on everything from talent shortages to technological disruption.

The conversation delves deep into the challenges facing accountants today, including the struggle to attract new talent, the need for a shift in business models, and the impact of remote work. However, it's not all doom and gloom. 

The panelists also highlight the immense opportunities available to those willing to embrace change and innovation. They discuss the importance of compassionate leadership, the need for better metrics beyond billable hours, and the potential for accountants to position themselves as true business advisors.

Key Takeaways:

• The accounting profession needs to address the talent shortage by rethinking education requirements and work culture 
• Remote work is here to stay, and firms need to adapt their policies to attract and retain talent 
• The partnership model in accounting firms may be outdated and needs to be reevaluated 
• Technology should be seen as an enabler for better processes, not just a solution to pain points 
• The future of accounting lies in advisory services and helping businesses achieve their goals

Quotes: 

"Complacency is one of the threats that we often run into." - Tamera Loerzel

"Every accountant is an entrepreneur." - Rick Telberg

"Let's stop arguing about it and fighting it and just get to work." - Jeremy Clopton on remote work

"We need to focus on results-based metrics and what are the deliverables." - Tamera Loerzel

"The CPA brand is one of the best in the world." - Rick Telberg

You can watch this episode and more on our YouTube Channel

https://youtu.be/SUhzVy194H0

Join the Accounting Influencers community and get invitations to our international speed networking events to build your personal brand and network in the accounting, finance and tech world: https://www.linkedin.com/company/accountinginfluencers

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The Accounting Influencers Podcast, hosted by Rob Brown, is one of the world's leading shows for accounting leaders, professionals, finance specialists, software vendors, tech providers and influencers. To participate in our international virtual speed networking events for the accounting community, book your place at the next gathering. Great for building your personal brand and making valuable industry connections in return for a small donation to charity: https://accountinginfluencers.com/events

◣━━━━━━━━━━━━━━━━━━━━◢

Thanks to our sponsors:

ADVANCETRACK OUTSOURCING. Transform your accounting firm with AdvanceTrack. Our top-tier offshoring solutions free your team from mundane tasks, allowing you to focus on growth and client engagement. Experience seamless scalability and expert support. Visit advancetrack.com and elevate your practice today. https://www.advancetrack.com

ACCOUNTEX. Bringing the accounting world together with UK and international events for the accounting and tech world. https://www.accountex.co.uk

If you'd like to sponsor the show and elevate your brand...

Is artificial intelligence overhyped, or will it revolutionize the accounting profession? How can accountants prepare for the AI-driven future?

Rob Brown interviews Mark Wickersham, a veteran accountant and AI enthusiast, about the impending impact of artificial intelligence on the accounting profession. Wickersham predicts significant changes in the industry by 2030, including the automation of bookkeeping and tax return preparation. He highlights the rapid advancements in AI technology across various sectors and explains how these developments will inevitably transform accounting practices.

The discussion covers the current state of AI adoption in accounting firms, the potential of tools like ChatGPT, and the importance of embracing new technologies. Wickersham emphasizes the need for accountants to focus on creating value for clients beyond traditional compliance work and advocates for value-based pricing models. The conversation provides valuable insights into how accountants can prepare for and thrive in an AI-driven future.

Key Takeaways:

• AI will significantly impact the accounting profession by 2030 
• Bookkeeping and tax return preparation may become automated
• Accountants need to embrace AI tools like ChatGPT 
• Firms must find new ways to create value for clients 
• Value-based pricing is crucial in the age of AI 

Quotes:

"Data's where the power is. Data's where the money is." [00:11:50]

"Productivity goes through the roof when we use it, when we use it properly." [00:14:30]

You can watch this episode and more on our YouTube Channel

https://youtu.be/MnEXckAjVZU

Join the Accounting Influencers community and get invitations to our international speed networking events to build your personal brand and network in the accounting, finance and tech world: https://www.linkedin.com/company/accountinginfluencers

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The Accounting Influencers Podcast, hosted by Rob Brown, is one of the world's leading shows for accounting leaders, professionals, finance specialists, software vendors, tech providers and influencers. To participate in our international virtual speed networking events for the accounting community, book your place at the next gathering. Great for building your personal brand and making valuable industry connections in return for a small donation to charity: https://accountinginfluencers.com/events

◣━━━━━━━━━━━━━━━━━━━━◢

Thanks to our sponsors:

ADVANCETRACK OUTSOURCING. Transform your accounting firm with AdvanceTrack. Our top-tier offshoring solutions free your team from mundane tasks, allowing you to focus on growth and client engagement. Experience seamless scalability and expert support. Visit advancetrack.com and elevate your practice today. https://www.advancetrack.com

ACCOUNTEX. Bringing the accounting world together with UK and international events for the accounting and tech world. https://www.accountex.co.uk

If you'd like to sponsor the show and elevate your brand with our audience, reach out to show host Rob Brown on LinkedIn and his team will reach out to fix up a chat to explore.

https://www.linkedin.com/in/therobbrown

You can also check out all shows on the Accounting Influencers YouTube Channel:

Host Rob Brown is joined by Sue Coffey, CEO of Public Accounting at the American Institute of CPAs (AICPA), and Lexy Kessler, Partner at Aprio and Chair of the AICPA's National Pipeline Advisory Group (NPAG). They look into the alarming talent shortage facing the accounting profession and the potential solutions proposed by the NPAG.

Lexy and Sue discuss the overwhelming evidence pointing to a significant talent pipeline issue in accounting, including declining enrolment in accounting programs, fewer students pursuing the CPA credential, and challenges in retaining young professionals in their first five years of employment. But can the profession overcome this challenge? Rob, Sue, and Lexy explore the root causes, such as the profession's perceived image, the cost and time commitment of education, and the need for evolving business models at accounting firms.

The NPAG's findings underscore the urgency of addressing the talent pipeline issue collaboratively, involving stakeholders from academia, regulators, state societies, and the profession itself. Sue and Lexy share their optimism that by implementing the recommended solutions, the accounting profession can overcome this challenge and attract the talent required to thrive in an ever-evolving business landscape.

"We are a profession that communities, businesses, and economies need, and we just need to address our talent shortages and adapt." - Sue Coffey

"It's not just Debits and credits to that point. It's really about the business person piece of it and the different scenarios and the strategy behind the numbers as well. So there's much more to it than, than processing or, or producing a product and that's it. It's much, much more than that." - Lexy Kessler

Key Takeaways:

The accounting profession is struggling with a talent pipeline shortage, but it's not "withering on the vine" as some suggest. - Sue Coffey

Improving storytelling and celebrating the profession's impact is crucial to attract younger generations. - Lexy Kessler

The cost and time commitment of education, especially for socioeconomically disadvantaged students, is a significant barrier to entry. - Sue Coffey

Firms need to evolve their business models to provide a better experience for young professionals in their first five years, addressing issues like excessive hours and meaningful work assignments. - Sue Coffey

Modernizing the CPA licensure process is a long-term goal to ensure the profession remains sustainable and relevant in the future. - Lexy Kessler

You can watch this episode and more on our YouTube Channel

https://youtu.be/JaLe1nq9lk4

Join the Accounting Influencers community and get invitations to our international speed networking events to build your personal brand and network in the accounting, finance and tech world: https://www.linkedin.com/company/accountinginfluencers

◣━━━━━━━━━━━━━━━━━━━━◢

The Accounting Influencers Podcast, hosted by Rob Brown, is one of the world's leading shows for accounting leaders, professionals, finance specialists, software vendors, tech providers and influencers. To participate in our international virtual speed networking events for the accounting community, book your place at the next gathering. Great for building your personal brand and making valuable industry connections in return for a small donation to charity: https://accountinginfluencers.com/events

◣━━━━━━━━━━━━━━━━━━━━◢

Thanks to our sponsors:

ADVANCETRACK OUTSOURCING. Transform your accounting firm with AdvanceTrack. Our top-tier offshoring solutions free your team from mundane tasks, allowing you to focus on growth and client engagement. Experience...

Ever wondered how top accountants stay ahead in a fast-evolving industry?  

Rob Brown hosts a panel of influential voices in the accounting world to discuss the current state and future of the profession. The conversation delves into the threats and challenges faced by accountants, the need for rebranding and attracting new talent, the role of technology, and the opportunities that lie ahead.

The panelists, including Paul Surtees, Leslie Shiner, Denise Froemming, and Adam Lean, share their candid perspectives on the commoditization of accounting services, the importance of shifting from compliance-focused to advisory-focused roles, and the need for accountants to speak the language of business rather than accounting jargon.

They emphasize the necessity of embracing technological advancements like AI and automation to free up time for more meaningful work and the imperative of fostering financial literacy in society.

Key Takeaways:

• Accountants must move beyond compliance and embrace advisory roles to stay relevant.
• The profession faces a talent shortage and needs to rebrand itself to attract and retain the next generation.
• Firms should focus on helping clients be profitable and speak a language they understand.
• Financial literacy should be prioritized from a young age to foster a deeper understanding of numbers.
• Embracing AI and technology can free up accountants to provide more purposeful and impactful work.

Quotes:

• "They should be listening to their clients. They should be asking for and being proactive in helping their clients instead of retroactive." - Leslie Shiner
• "You cannot talk like an accountant. You got to talk like to a human, because your customer is a human, not an accountant." - Adam Lean
• "I would love to see financial literacy, like, in every high school, community college, so we could start from a, and it's in about 25 different states, but we're working on it." - Denise Froemming
• "You can't go and speak to accountants to tell them how to do their day job because we're not accountants." - Paul Surtees
• "Accounting is the language of business. And I think this is a great time for accountants to remember that and realize that their job is to be an interpreter of accounting in a way that makes sense." - Adam Lean

View this episode in video on YouTube here:

https://youtu.be/aS_eaA5zVtg

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The Accounting Influencers Podcast, hosted by Rob Brown, is one of the world's leading shows for accounting leaders, professionals, finance specialists, software vendors, tech providers and influencers. To participate in our international virtual speed networking events for the accounting community, book your place at the next gathering. Great for building your personal brand and making valuable industry connections in return for a small donation to charity: https://accountinginfluencers.com/events

◣━━━━━━━━━━━━━━━━━━━━◢

Thanks to our sponsors:

ADVANCETRACK OUTSOURCING. Transform your accounting firm with AdvanceTrack. Our top-tier offshoring solutions free your team from mundane tasks, allowing you to focus on growth and client engagement. Experience seamless scalability and expert support. Visit advancetrack.com and elevate your practice today. https://www.advancetrack.com

ACCOUNTEX. Bringing the accounting world together with UK and international events for the accounting and tech world. https://www.accountex.co.uk

If you'd like to sponsor the show and elevate your brand with our...

This international panel discussion explores the current state and future trajectory of the accounting profession. The distinguished panel includes influential leaders and innovators in the field such as Arun Mehra, Chase Birky, Eric Gregg, and Jody Padar to share their diverse perspectives on the challenges and opportunities facing the industry.

The conversation kicks off with an assessment of the profession's current shape. While the panelists acknowledge the existence of challenges, such as talent shortages and outdated business models, they also recognize the immense opportunities arising from technological advancements, changing client expectations, and the influx of capital from private equity and venture capital firms.

The discussion highlights the importance of embracing change, prioritizing culture and purpose, upskilling in areas like technology and advisory services, and positioning accountants as trusted business advisors rather than mere compliance providers.

As the dialogue progresses, the guests underscore the immense potential for accountants to thrive in the evolving business landscape by embracing innovation, redefining their value proposition, and becoming trusted advisors to their clients.

Key Takeaways:

• The accounting profession is at a crossroads, with firms facing an existential crisis due to outdated business models and a talent shortage.
• Money pouring into the industry from private equity and venture capital firms is forcing change and disrupting traditional firm structures.
• The ability to work with technology, including AI, will be more important than accounting experience or subject matter knowledge in the near future.
• Firms must prioritize culture, purpose, and agency for their employees to attract and retain top talent in the face of better career alternatives.
• Referrals alone will no longer be sufficient for acquiring new business; firms must embrace transparency and deliver remarkable client experiences.

Quotes:

1. "There are some real pioneers in this space who are doing things differently, who are trying things differently, sometimes not always working, but I think we should support them and encourage them because if we have those pioneers, other people will follow and ultimately do things differently and innovate." - Arun Mehra
2. "The best accountants are going to be more technologists than classic accountants." - Chase Birky
3. "We're going to self-serve a lot more of this relationship with a lot more visibility into the steps that are happening behind the scenes." - Eric Gregg
4. "The technology that's here today, and the technology that's coming in the future, is going to allow us to be more human and help our clients better and faster, and still get to go home on time." - Jody Padar

View this episode in video on YouTube here:

https://youtu.be/PF0h65LzTAY

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The Accounting Influencers Podcast, hosted by Rob Brown, is one of the world's leading shows for accounting leaders, professionals, finance specialists, software vendors, tech providers and influencers. To participate in our international virtual speed networking events for the accounting community, book your place at the next gathering. Great for building your personal brand and making valuable industry connections in return for a small donation to charity: https://accountinginfluencers.com/events

◣━━━━━━━━━━━━━━━━━━━━◢

Thanks to our sponsors:

ADVANCETRACK OUTSOURCING. Transform your accounting firm with AdvanceTrack. Our top-tier offshoring solutions free your team from mundane tasks, allowing you to focus on growth and client engagement. Experience seamless scalability and expert support. Visit advancetrack.com and...

Brannon Poe is the author of "The Unplugged Vacation," and founder of Poe Group Advisors and Accounting Practice Academy. Rob Brown and Brannon Poe delve into the often-overlooked challenges accountants face in managing their time and achieving work-life balance. Brannon, sheds light on the realities of the accounting profession, where the relentless demands of clients and the struggle to maintain boundaries can lead to burnout and dissatisfaction.

Brannon's book, "The Unplugged Vacation," serves as a guide for accountants to reclaim control over their time and learn the art of truly disconnecting from work during vacations. Through personal anecdotes and insights, he underscores the importance of setting boundaries, purging underperforming clients, and implementing value-based pricing to create a sustainable and fulfilling practice.

The conversation explores the challenges accountants face in saying "no" to clients, leading to unfocused and overextended practices. 

Brannon emphasizes the importance of firm culture, work-life balance, and the need for accountants to break free from the billable hour mindset, which can perpetuate the cycle of overwork and undervaluation.

Key Takeaways:

• Accountants often struggle with time management, staff shortages, and an inability to let go of work, leading to burnout and dissatisfaction.
• Setting boundaries, purging underperforming clients, and implementing value-based pricing are crucial steps to creating a sustainable and fulfilling practice.
• Taking a truly unplugged vacation requires advance preparation, team readiness, and acceptance that some balls may drop during the absence.
• Firm culture, work-life balance, and moving away from the billable hour mindset are essential for attracting and retaining top talent in the accounting profession.
• Booking a vacation and committing to being unplugged is an actionable step accountants can take to recalibrate their priorities and improve their overall well-being.

Quotes: 

"You don't like your practice, keep raising your prices until you do." - Brannon Poe

"If you're equating your time to money, well, there's probably one of the first problems you got to solve." - Brannon Poe

View this episode in video on YouTube here:

https://youtu.be/LIP3OXh_yEk

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The Accounting Influencers Podcast, hosted by Rob Brown, is one of the world's leading shows for accounting leaders, professionals, finance specialists, software vendors, tech providers and influencers. To participate in our international virtual speed networking events for the accounting community, book your place at the next gathering. Great for building your personal brand and making valuable industry connections in return for a small donation to charity: https://accountinginfluencers.com/events

◣━━━━━━━━━━━━━━━━━━━━◢

Thanks to our sponsors:

ADVANCETRACK OUTSOURCING. Transform your accounting firm with AdvanceTrack. Our top-tier offshoring solutions free your team from mundane tasks, allowing you to focus on growth and client engagement. Experience seamless scalability and expert support. Visit advancetrack.com and elevate your practice today. https://www.advancetrack.com

ACCOUNTEX. Bringing the accounting world together with UK and international events for the accounting and tech world. https://www.accountex.co.uk

If you'd like to sponsor the show and elevate your brand with our audience, reach out to show host Rob Brown on LinkedIn and his team will reach out to fix up a chat to explore.

This international panel discussion explores the current state and future trajectory of the accounting profession. The distinguished panel includes influential leaders and innovators on the field such as Dianne Yetter, Sarah Dobek, Tom Barry and Jeff Seibert to share their diverse perspectives on the challenges and opportunities facing the industry.

The conversation goes through with an assessment of the profession's current shape. While the panelists acknowledge the existence of challenges, such as talent shortages and outdated perceptions, they also recognize the immense opportunities arising from technological advancements and evolving client needs. 

The discussion highlights the importance of embracing change, upskilling in areas like communication and strategic thinking, and positioning accountants as trusted business advisors.

As the dialogue progresses, the guests share their visions for the future of accounting. Predictions range from the rise of accounting for virtual economies and cross-disciplinary education to the potential demise of the traditional partnership model and the globalization of services delivery. 

The panelists also emphasize the need to address persistent myths and raise financial literacy to foster a better understanding of the profession's true value.

Key Takeaways:

• The accounting profession is in a state of flux, with a divide between those embracing change and those resistant to it. Firms unwilling to adapt risk becoming irrelevant.
• Accountants must go beyond traditional number-crunching roles and develop skills in communication, strategic thinking, and entrepreneurship.
• Technology, such as AI and automation, will eliminate tedious tasks, allowing accountants to focus on delivering value-added advisory services.
• Attracting and retaining talent is a significant challenge, and firms must invest in training and development, particularly in soft skills.
• Branding and storytelling are crucial for changing the perception of accounting as a boring profession and showcasing its dynamic nature.

Quotes:

"We have to tell a better story. What made Anderson great is the way that they onboarded people, the way that they ingrained them into what was great about the profession." - Sarah Dobek

"It's the best of times and the worst of times for accounting." - Tom Barry (paraphrasing Charles Dickens)

Watch in video format on youtube here: https://youtu.be/SuOqR21SLB4

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The Accounting Influencers Podcast, hosted by Rob Brown, is one of the world's leading shows for accounting leaders, professionals, finance specialists, software vendors, tech providers and influencers. To participate in our international virtual speed networking events for the accounting community, book your place at the next gathering. Great for building your personal brand and making valuable industry connections in return for a small donation to charity: https://accountinginfluencers.com/events

◣━━━━━━━━━━━━━━━━━━━━◢

Thanks to our sponsors:

ADVANCETRACK OUTSOURCING. Transform your accounting firm with AdvanceTrack. Our top-tier offshoring solutions free your team from mundane tasks, allowing you to focus on growth and client engagement. Experience seamless scalability and expert support. Visit advancetrack.com and elevate your practice today. https://www.advancetrack.com

ACCOUNTEX. Bringing the accounting world together with UK and international events for the accounting and tech world. https://www.accountex.co.uk

If you'd like to sponsor the show and...

This international panel discussion explores where the accounting profession is headed and what it needs to do to remain relevant. The all-star panel includes influencers Daniel Dronsfield, Amy Vetter, Jasen Stine and Andrew Harding.

The experts agree the profession is at an inflection point, with a divide between those embracing change and those resistant to it. Firms unwilling to adapt face potential irrelevance as the workforce ages and talent becomes scarce. Persistent myths like accountants being stuck in the past need debunking.

Successful future accountants will need skills beyond number-crunching, such as communication, strategic thinking, and an entrepreneurial mindset. The panelists urge learning from other industries' client-centric and innovative approaches.

Bold predictions include the rise of accounting for virtual economies, more cross-disciplinary education, the demise of the partnership model, and globalized services delivery.

If granted a magic wand, the panelists wish for raising financial literacy, closing the public's expectation gap on audit failures, and fostering a culture of technology integration.

While tumultuous times loom, the profession's future brims with opportunities for the adaptive. As Stein states: "It's the best and worst time" for accounting.

Key Takeaways:

• The accounting profession is at an inflection point, with significant changes happening due to technology, changing workforce dynamics, and evolving client needs.
• Firms and individuals who embrace change and upskill in areas like communication, strategic thinking, and advisory services will thrive, while those resistant to change may struggle.
• The traditional partnership model and accounting qualifications may undergo significant transformations to adapt to the changing landscape.
• Increasing financial literacy and understanding the true value of accountants beyond compliance work is crucial for the profession's future.

"If your business model is serving people in volume and you want the 100, 1040 or the 50 a month bookkeeping client, I mean, you're in for a rude awakening because frankly, nobody really does want that." - Jason Stine

"We'll see the emergence of cross-disciplinary accounting degrees, certifications that lend finance and technology with traditional accounting education. The accountants of tomorrow, they'll need to have a very broad knowledge base to navigate the complexities of modern business." - Daniel Dronsfield

Watch in video format on youtube here: https://youtu.be/NsYHJu8dRTo

◣━━━━━━━━━━━━━━━━━━━━◢

The Accounting Influencers Podcast, hosted by Rob Brown, is one of the world's leading shows for accounting leaders, professionals, finance specialists, software vendors, tech providers and influencers. To participate in our international virtual speed networking events for the accounting community, book your place at the next gathering. Great for building your personal brand and making valuable industry connections in return for a small donation to charity: https://accountinginfluencers.com/events

◣━━━━━━━━━━━━━━━━━━━━◢

Thanks to our sponsors:

ADVANCETRACK OUTSOURCING. Transform your accounting firm with AdvanceTrack. Our top-tier offshoring solutions free your team from mundane tasks, allowing you to focus on growth and client engagement. Experience seamless scalability and expert support. Visit advancetrack.com and elevate your practice today. https://www.advancetrack.com

ACCOUNTEX. Join us at Accountex London, the pinnacle of fintech innovation, May 15-16, 2024! Discover ground-breaking solutions from 295+ brands and gain invaluable insights at our...

Jeremy Clopton is a governance and leadership expert who works extensively with accounting firms.

Jeremy and Rob delve into the critical topic of governance best practices for successful accounting firms. Jeremy emphasizes the importance of separating governance (strategic decision-making) from operations (day-to-day management). He shares insights on streamlining decision-making processes, delegating authority, and fostering effective communication within partner groups.

Clopton's insights shed light on the common challenges firms face as they grow, including the need for partners to relinquish autonomy and embrace a more structured, business-like approach to governance.

He stresses the importance of clearly defining decision-making authority at different levels within the firm and ensuring that partners understand and buy into the governance model.

Key Takeaways:

• Differentiate between governance (strategic decisions) and operations (day-to-day management)
• Clearly define decision-making authority at partner, management committee, and managing partner levels
• Foster effective communication to keep partners informed and engaged
• Embrace a business-like approach to governance while maintaining a people-focused culture
• Align partner compensation with desired behaviors and contributions to firm success

"You can either be running your firm like a business, or you can be running it as nine different firms that all sit under the same roof."

View this episode in video on YouTube here: https://youtu.be/QYUCukwNwQs

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The Accounting Influencers Podcast, hosted by Rob Brown, is one of the world's leading shows for accounting leaders, professionals, finance specialists, software vendors, tech providers and influencers. To participate in our international virtual speed networking events for the accounting community, book your place at the next gathering. Great for building your personal brand and making valuable industry connections in return for a small donation to charity: https://accountinginfluencers.com/events

◣━━━━━━━━━━━━━━━━━━━━◢

Thanks to our sponsors:

ADVANCETRACK OUTSOURCING. Transform your accounting firm with AdvanceTrack. Our top-tier offshoring solutions free your team from mundane tasks, allowing you to focus on growth and client engagement. Experience seamless scalability and expert support. Visit advancetrack.com and elevate your practice today. https://www.advancetrack.com

ACCOUNTEX. Join us at Accountex London, the pinnacle of fintech innovation, May 15-16, 2024! Discover ground-breaking solutions from 295+ brands and gain invaluable insights at our CPD-accredited sessions. Connect with 10,000+ finance professionals. Elevate your practice – attendance is free, plus earn up to 16 CPD points! https://www.accountex.co.uk/london

If you'd like to sponsor the show and elevate your brand with our audience, reach out to show host Rob Brown on LinkedIn and his team will reach out to fix up a chat to explore.

https://www.linkedin.com/in/therobbrown

You can also check out all shows on the Accounting Influencers YouTube Channel

https://bit.ly/AI-youtube

This episode features a panel discussion on the challenges and future of the accounting profession. Panelists include Ed Kless, Michael Turner (Validis), Steve Cox (IRIS), and Dan McMahon (Integrated Growth Advisors). They delve into issues like the billable hour model, talent shortages, resistance to change, the role of technology like AI, client advisory services, private equity's impact, and more. The conversation offers insightful perspectives on where accounting is stuck and what kind of transformation is needed.

Panelists:

- Ed Kless, Former Senior Director of Partner Development and Strategy at Sage

- Michael Turner, CEO of Validis

- Steve Cox, Business Intelligence Director at IRIS

- Dan McMahon, Management Consultant at Integrated Growth Advisors

Key Topics:

- The billable hour as the "cancer" holding back accounting

- Need to transition to selling knowledge/value instead of time

- Talent shortage and struggles to attract newcomers

- Importance of purpose, values, and accountability for great firms

- Role of change management to drive transformation

- Predictions on multidisciplinary teams, data-driven audits, advisory services

"Stuck. In a word, stuck...The cancer of the accounting profession is the billable hour and the timesheet." - Ed Kless

"Let's eliminate the annual performance review and instead institute after action reviews...that is the replacement for the timesheet." - Ed Kless

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The Accounting Influencers Podcast, hosted by Rob Brown, is one of the world's leading shows for accounting leaders, professionals, finance specialists, software vendors, tech providers and influencers. To participate in our international virtual speed networking events for the accounting community, book your place at the next gathering. Great for building your personal brand and making valuable industry connections in return for a small donation to charity: https://accountinginfluencers.com/events

◣━━━━━━━━━━━━━━━━━━━━◢

Thanks to our sponsors:

ADVANCETRACK OUTSOURCING. Transform your accounting firm with AdvanceTrack. Our top-tier offshoring solutions free your team from mundane tasks, allowing you to focus on growth and client engagement. Experience seamless scalability and expert support. Visit advancetrack.com and elevate your practice today. https://www.advancetrack.com

ACCOUNTEX. Join us at Accountex London, the pinnacle of fintech innovation, May 15-16, 2024! Discover ground-breaking solutions from 295+ brands and gain invaluable insights at our CPD-accredited sessions. Connect with 10,000+ finance professionals. Elevate your practice – attendance is free, plus earn up to 16 CPD points! https://www.accountex.co.uk/london

If you'd like to sponsor the show and elevate your brand with our audience, reach out to show host Rob Brown on LinkedIn and his team will reach out to fix up a chat to explore.

https://www.linkedin.com/in/therobbrown

You can also check out all shows on the Accounting Influencers YouTube Channel

https://bit.ly/AI-youtube

Rob Brown discusses the future of accounting with special guests Davis Bell, Geni Whitehouse, Geoffrey Brown and Jason Blumer. The panel provides insights into the key challenges and opportunities facing accountants, from talent retention and technology adoption to redefining the role of the modern accountant.

The conversation delves into the accounting profession's image problem, with the panel highlighting the need to better communicate the diverse career paths and meaningful work available to aspiring accountants. They also explore the shifts in firm ownership models, the rise of entrepreneurial mindsets, and the importance of accountants embracing a more advisory and future-focused role.

The guests share their predictions for the profession, including the changing talent pool, the commoditization of certain services, and the critical need for firms to integrate technology and business analysis skills. Overall, the episode paints a picture of an industry in flux, but one that holds immense potential for those willing to adapt and lead the charge towards a more dynamic and impactful future for the accounting profession.

Key Takeaways:

1. The accounting profession is facing a talent pipeline challenge, with a need to better retain and attract the next generation of accountants.

2. Embracing a more advisory and insight-driven approach is crucial for accountants to remain relevant and add value to clients.

3. Firms must adapt their ownership models and business structures to meet the needs and expectations of the incoming generation of leaders.

4. Technology and automation will continue to disrupt the profession, presenting both threats and opportunities for accountants.

5. Accounting firms should actively seek to integrate business analysis and technology skills into their teams to stay ahead of the curve.

Quotes:

"We need to start talking about what it means to be a finance and accounting professional much earlier, high school, junior high even, because there's a lot of opportunity there." - Geoffrey Brown

"If we can convince some people to keep coming into the profession, I mean, we're going to kill it. We're going to kill it over the next 30 years, I think." - Jason Blumer

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The Accounting Influencers Podcast, hosted by Rob Brown, is one of the world's leading shows for accounting leaders, professionals, finance specialists, software vendors, tech providers and influencers. To participate in our international virtual speed networking events for the accounting community, book your place at the next gathering. Great for building your personal brand and making valuable industry connections in return for a small donation to charity: https://accountinginfluencers.com/events

◣━━━━━━━━━━━━━━━━━━━━◢

Thanks to our sponsors:

ADVANCETRACK OUTSOURCING. Transform your accounting firm with AdvanceTrack. Our top-tier offshoring solutions free your team from mundane tasks, allowing you to focus on growth and client engagement. Experience seamless scalability and expert support. Visit advancetrack.com and elevate your practice today. https://www.advancetrack.com

ACCOUNTEX. Join us at Accountex London, the pinnacle of fintech innovation, May 15-16, 2024! Discover ground-breaking solutions from 295+ brands and gain invaluable insights at our CPD-accredited sessions. Connect with 10,000+ finance professionals. Elevate your practice – attendance is free, plus earn up to 16 CPD points! https://www.accountex.co.uk/london

DEXT. Streamline your accounting practice with...

Jeff Seibert is the co-founder and CEO of Digits, a modern accounting platform. Jeff and Rob delve into the impact of AI on the accounting profession, exploring its potential to revolutionize the industry while also addressing concerns and misconceptions surrounding this emerging technology.

Jeff explains the fundamental concepts of machine learning and artificial intelligence in layman's terms, emphasizing that AI is not aimed at replacing accountants but rather augmenting their capabilities and freeing them from tedious tasks. He discusses the two main branches of machine learning – generative models like ChatGPT and predictive models – and how Digits is leveraging the latter to automate bookkeeping with an 87% accuracy rate.

The conversation also touches on the importance of data security, collaborative finance, real-time accounting, and the need for accountants to embrace technology to stay relevant and competitive. Jeff's message is one of hope, encouraging accountants to experiment with AI and adopt these tools to enhance their practices and better serve their clients.

5 Key Takeaways:

• AI is not going to replace accountants; it will elevate the profession by automating tedious tasks and allowing accountants to focus on higher-value activities.
• Digits is developing AI bookkeeping models that can accurately classify transactions with 87% accuracy, significantly reducing manual labor.
• Data security is crucial when integrating AI into accounting software, and firms should scrutinize vendors' security measures.
• Collaborative finance and real-time accounting are the future, enabling accountants and clients to work together seamlessly and access up-to-date financial data.
• Embracing AI and new technologies is essential for accountants to remain competitive and grow their practices.

"AI is not going to be the death of accounting. Just like the calculator wasn't the death of accounting, the computer wasn't the death of accounting." - Jeff Seibert

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The Accounting Influencers Podcast, hosted by Rob Brown, is one of the world's leading shows for accounting leaders, professionals, finance specialists, software vendors, tech providers and influencers. To participate in our international virtual speed networking events for the accounting community, book your place at the next gathering. Great for building your personal brand and making valuable industry connections in return for a small donation to charity: https://accountinginfluencers.com/events

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Thanks to our sponsors:

ADVANCETRACK OUTSOURCING. Transform your accounting firm with AdvanceTrack. Our top-tier offshoring solutions free your team from mundane tasks, allowing you to focus on growth and client engagement. Experience seamless scalability and expert support. Visit advancetrack.com and elevate your practice today. https://www.advancetrack.com

ACCOUNTEX. Join us at Accountex London, the pinnacle of fintech innovation, May 15-16, 2024! Discover ground-breaking solutions from 295+ brands and gain invaluable insights at our CPD-accredited sessions. Connect with 10,000+ finance professionals. Elevate your practice – attendance is free, plus earn up to 16 CPD points! https://www.accountex.co.uk/london

DEXT. Streamline your accounting practice with Dext! Our cutting-edge tools, Dext Prepare, Commerce, and Precision, revolutionize data handling, saving you precious time and ensuring accuracy. Connect seamlessly with leading software like Xero and QBO. Join 500,000+ customers transforming...

This engaging panel discussion explored the rapidly evolving landscape of the accounting profession, addressing the challenges, opportunities, and pivotal factors shaping its future. The panelists delved into topics such as technological disruption, changing workforce dynamics, the erosion of public trust, and the critical skills and mindsets required for accountants to stay relevant and indispensable in an era of unprecedented change.

The conversation highlighted the shared responsibility among various stakeholders, including individuals, firms, professional bodies, and technology providers, to drive the profession forward and maintain its ethical integrity. The panelists emphasized the importance of continuous learning, specialization, problem-solving, agility, and client-centricity as key competencies for accountants to cultivate in this transformative period.

Important Takeaways:

• Continuous learning, specialization, and the ability to adapt to rapid change are essential for accounting professionals to stay relevant and competitive.
• Fostering a culture of generosity, humility, and curiosity within firms is crucial for driving innovation and empowering the next generation of accountants.
• Technology, particularly AI and automation, will profoundly impact the accounting profession, necessitating a mindset shift and a willingness to embrace these advancements.
• Accountants and professional bodies must collaborate to uphold the ethical standards and financial integrity of the profession, regaining public trust through transparency and accountability.
• Remote work and globalized teams present both opportunities and challenges, requiring a balanced approach that prioritizes talent development, mentorship, and fostering a sense of connection and belonging.

"Innovate or perish. Because honestly, at the end of the day, the reality is we're all consultants, and what's our mindset? How do we adapt to this changing world? We either innovate or we retire." - David Cieslak

"Time is going to become so much less relevant. The minute they offshored and outsourced and didn't put people's time into their time system for that work, pricing on time is ridiculous." - Jennifer Wilson

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The Accounting Influencers Podcast, hosted by Rob Brown, is one of the world's leading shows for accounting leaders, professionals, finance specialists, software vendors, tech providers and influencers. To participate in our international virtual speed networking events for the accounting community, book your place at the next gathering. Great for building your personal brand and making valuable industry connections in return for a small donation to charity: https://accountinginfluencers.com/events

◣━━━━━━━━━━━━━━━━━━━━◢

Thanks to our sponsors:

ADVANCETRACK OUTSOURCING. Transform your accounting firm with AdvanceTrack. Our top-tier offshoring solutions free your team from mundane tasks, allowing you to focus on growth and client engagement. Experience seamless scalability and expert support. Visit advancetrack.com and elevate your practice today. https://www.advancetrack.com

ACCOUNTEX. Join us at Accountex London, the pinnacle of fintech innovation, May 15-16, 2024! Discover ground-breaking solutions from 295+ brands and gain invaluable insights at our CPD-accredited sessions. Connect with 10,000+ finance professionals. Elevate your practice – attendance is free, plus earn up to 16 CPD points! https://www.accountex.co.uk/london

DEXT. Streamline your accounting practice with Dext! Our cutting-edge

This is an insightful discussion on the future of the accounting profession, featuring an esteemed panel of accounting industry leaders and experts - Gary Boomer, Val Steed, Sarah Beale, and Bob Lewis.

They delve into the current state of accounting, the need for change, potential threats like AI and automation, the importance of rebranding and improving the profession's perception, the relevance of accounting qualifications, predictions for the profession's future, and more.

The panel acknowledges that while accounting has historically been stable, it's currently facing the most profound changes from all angles - economic shifts, regulatory uncertainties, technological disruptions like AI, and a severe talent shortage.

They emphasize that to remain relevant, the profession must adapt, innovate, improve processes, diversify talent, focus on advisory services, leverage technology intelligently, and most importantly, change its perception among the youth to attract the required talent.

Key Takeaways:

- The accounting profession is amid a transformative period driven by the accelerated pace of change, AI/automation, increased private equity investments, and changing workforce dynamics. Firms that fail to adapt will struggle to survive.

- The biggest threat is from entrepreneurs and firms that don't change their mindset from just providing compliance services to becoming strategic advisors understanding and solving clients' core business challenges.

- Rebranding the profession is crucial to attract diverse, younger talent by changing the perception that it's just number-crunching to showcasing it as an exciting, entrepreneurial career with varied opportunities.

- Accounting qualifications must continuously evolve with changing business needs, emphasizing skills like communication, ethics, sustainability, and digital proficiency along with technical expertise.

- Key predictions include greater advisory services adoption, private equity/consolidation, AI-driven automation of routine tasks, and the rise of accounting "big-box" firms offering integrated professional services.

- It's an opportune time in accounting, presenting transformative prospects for those willing to develop required skills, embrace technology, focus on advisory/consulting services, and be part of steering the profession's narrative.

"There is so much change out there, which means so much opportunity. And I think we've got the opportunity to carve out our profession in a really different way that adds massive value to business, economy, and society, if we get it right." - Sarah Beale 

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The Accounting Influencers Podcast, hosted by Rob Brown, is one of the world's leading shows for accounting leaders, professionals, finance specialists, software vendors, tech providers and influencers. To participate in our international virtual speed networking events for the accounting community, book your place at the next gathering. Great for building your personal brand and making valuable industry connections in return for a small donation to charity: https://accountinginfluencers.com/events

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Thanks to our sponsors:

ADVANCETRACK OUTSOURCING. Transform your accounting firm with AdvanceTrack. Our top-tier offshoring solutions free your team from mundane tasks, allowing you to focus on growth and client engagement. Experience seamless scalability and expert support. Visit advancetrack.com and elevate your practice today. https://www.advancetrack.com

ACCOUNTEX. Join us at Accountex London, the pinnacle of fintech innovation, May 15-16, 2024! Discover ground-breaking solutions...

Rob Brown and Jeremy Clopton discuss work-life balance and productivity in the accounting profession.

Jeremy, a thought leader in the industry, shares his candid views on why traditional work-life balance is a flawed concept and offers a fresh perspective on prioritizing life over work. He emphasizes the importance of defining personal success, setting boundaries, and identifying the right work to focus on rather than falling into the hustle culture trap of merely doing more.

Jeremy's wisdom challenges the notion that more hours equate to greater productivity and encourages professionals to shift their mindset towards quality over quantity. He provides practical tips for leaders and individuals alike to recalibrate their priorities, acknowledge their contributions to the current situation, and make meaningful changes to improve their work-life harmony.

Key Takeaways:

• Traditional "work-life balance" is a broken concept; it should be viewed as an action verb, "balancing life and work," not a destination.
• Prioritize life over work; we are replaceable in our vocations but irreplaceable in our individual lives.
• Define personal success and near-non-negotiables rather than letting others dictate your priorities.
• Strive for excellence, not perfection, as perfection is unattainable in professional services.
• Leverage technology to increase efficiency, not just speed, and redefine success beyond merely doing more.

"If you model a life that nobody else wants, then you can't figure out why people don't want to be a partner." Jeremy Clopton

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The Accounting Influencers Podcast, hosted by Rob Brown, is one of the world's leading shows for accounting leaders, professionals, finance specialists, software vendors, tech providers and influencers. To participate in our international virtual speed networking events for the accounting community, book your place at the next gathering. Great for building your personal brand and making valuable industry connections in return for a small donation to charity: https://accountinginfluencers.com/events

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Thanks to our sponsors:

ADVANCETRACK OUTSOURCING. Transform your accounting firm with AdvanceTrack. Our top-tier offshoring solutions free your team from mundane tasks, allowing you to focus on growth and client engagement. Experience seamless scalability and expert support. Visit advancetrack.com and elevate your practice today. https://www.advancetrack.com

ACCOUNTEX. Join us at Accountex London, the pinnacle of fintech innovation, May 15-16, 2024! Discover ground-breaking solutions from 295+ brands and gain invaluable insights at our CPD-accredited sessions. Connect with 10,000+ finance professionals. Elevate your practice – attendance is free, plus earn up to 16 CPD points! https://www.accountex.co.uk/london

DEXT. Streamline your accounting practice with Dext! Our cutting-edge tools, Dext Prepare, Commerce, and Precision, revolutionize data handling, saving you precious time and ensuring accuracy. Connect seamlessly with leading software like Xero and QBO. Join 500,000+ customers transforming their practices. Start your free trial and embrace efficiency today! https://dext.com

If you'd like to sponsor the show and elevate your brand with our audience, reach out to show host Rob Brown on LinkedIn and his team will reach out to fix up a chat to explore.

In this panel discussion, host Rob Brown brings together knowledgeable guests from the accounting industry to discuss the current state of the profession, the challenges and threats it faces, and make bold predictions about the future of accounting. The panelists include Jeff Gramlich (Managing Director, Validus), Pat Morrell (Co-Founder, iWin), Hitender Patil (Director, Datamatics Business Solutions), Doug Lewis (Director, The Visionary Group), and the host Rob Brown.

The conversation covers various topics, such as the impact of technology, artificial intelligence (AI), outsourcing, private equity investments, talent acquisition, and the evolving role of accountants. The panelists share their insights and expertise, offering diverse perspectives on the industry's transformation and the changes firms must embrace to remain competitive and future-ready.

Key Takeaways:

• Accounting firms are currently in good financial shape, with many experiencing strong growth and profitability.
• However, firms face significant challenges in adapting to rapid technological changes, attracting and retaining talent, and transitioning from traditional compliance work to advisory services.
• AI and automation are poised to revolutionize the industry, enabling firms to increase productivity, reduce burnout, and focus on higher-value services.
• Private equity investments and consolidation among top firms are expected to accelerate, bringing in professional management teams and driving diversification of service offerings.
• Successful firms will prioritize client satisfaction, embrace change, leverage global teams and outsourcing, and adopt a mindset of continuous improvement and innovation.

"Accountants are so very needed, but they just can't reach all the masses that they need to reach, right? So I think it's a great flux to be in." - Hitendra Patil

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The Accounting Influencers Podcast, hosted by Rob Brown, is one of the world's leading shows for accounting leaders, professionals, finance specialists, software vendors, tech providers and influencers. To participate in our international virtual speed networking events for the accounting community, book your place at the next gathering. Great for building your personal brand and making valuable industry connections in return for a small donation to charity: https://accountinginfluencers.com/events

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Thanks to our sponsors:

ADVANCETRACK OUTSOURCING. Transform your accounting firm with AdvanceTrack. Our top-tier offshoring solutions free your team from mundane tasks, allowing you to focus on growth and client engagement. Experience seamless scalability and expert support. Visit advancetrack.com and elevate your practice today. https://www.advancetrack.com

ACCOUNTEX. Join us at Accountex London, the pinnacle of fintech innovation, May 15-16, 2024! Discover ground-breaking solutions from 295+ brands and gain invaluable insights at our CPD-accredited sessions. Connect with 10,000+ finance professionals. Elevate your practice – attendance is free, plus earn up to 16 CPD points! https://www.accountex.co.uk/london

DEXT. Streamline your accounting practice with Dext! Our cutting-edge tools, Dext Prepare, Commerce, and Precision, revolutionize data handling, saving you precious time and ensuring accuracy. Connect seamlessly with leading software like Xero and QBO. Join 500,000+ customers transforming their practices. Start your free trial and embrace efficiency today! https://dext.com

If you'd like to

This engaging roundtable discussion explores the future of the accounting profession from multiple perspectives. Host Rob Brown is joined by Gary Shamis, Lexy Kessler, Roger Knecht and Calvin Harris to debate whether accountants need to change, examine threats and challenges facing the field, discuss making accounting an attractive career choice, and share bold predictions.

The panel acknowledges accounting is in flux, with technology, staffing shortages, and an increasingly transactional approach reshaping the profession. However, they see tremendous opportunity amid this disruption for those willing to adapt. Private equity investment, offshoring, and new firm models are expected, as well as a continued push to redefine accounting's relevance and enhance the pipeline of emerging talent.

Key Takeaways:

• The accounting profession is becoming more transactional and less relationship-oriented due to staffing constraints.
• Poor starting salaries compared to the significant educational investment required is a major threat hindering recruitment.
• There is a lack of consensus on what modern accounting roles entail, hurting the profession's branding and ability to attract newcomers.
• Technology skills will be essential for future accountants, but so will an ability to tell compelling stories about accounting's impact.
• Firms must evolve through potential private equity investment, offshoring, and new operational models to meet changing client and staff expectations.

"The sky isn't falling, it's just we're having to act and move."

- Roger Knecht

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The Accounting Influencers Podcast, hosted by Rob Brown, is one of the world's leading shows for accounting leaders, professionals, finance specialists, software vendors, tech providers and influencers. To participate in our international virtual speed networking events for the accounting community, book your place at the next gathering. Great for building your personal brand and making valuable industry connections in return for a small donation to charity: https://accountinginfluencers.com/events

◣━━━━━━━━━━━━━━━━━━━━◢

Thanks to our sponsors:

ADVANCETRACK OUTSOURCING. Transform your accounting firm with AdvanceTrack. Our top-tier offshoring solutions free your team from mundane tasks, allowing you to focus on growth and client engagement. Experience seamless scalability and expert support. Visit advancetrack.com and elevate your practice today. https://www.advancetrack.com

ACCOUNTEX. Join us at Accountex London, the pinnacle of fintech innovation, May 15-16, 2024! Discover ground-breaking solutions from 295+ brands and gain invaluable insights at our CPD-accredited sessions. Connect with 10,000+ finance professionals. Elevate your practice – attendance is free, plus earn up to 16 CPD points! https://www.accountex.co.uk/london

DEXT. Streamline your accounting practice with Dext! Our cutting-edge tools, Dext Prepare, Commerce, and Precision, revolutionize data handling, saving you precious time and ensuring accuracy. Connect seamlessly with leading software like Xero and QBO. Join 500,000+ customers transforming their practices. Start your free trial and embrace efficiency today! https://dext.com

If you'd like to sponsor the show and elevate your brand with our audience, reach out to show host Rob Brown on LinkedIn and his team will reach out to fix up a chat to explore.

Discover how Bob Lewis shapes CPA firm futures with M&A, advisory services and growth tactics. Essential listening for accountants and CPAs

In this episode, host Rob Brown interviews Bob Lewis, CEO of The Vision Group, about major disruptions happening in the accounting industry.

They discuss the key inflection points causing disruption such as aging partners, workforce shortages, emerging technologies, and private equity investments. Bob explains the importance of recognizing these disruptions and taking proactive steps to get "disruption ready".

He shares insights on managing people, improving firm profitability, preparing for leadership transitions, and rethinking service offerings to meet evolving client needs.

Key Takeaways:

• Aging partners, workforce shortages, and emerging technologies are disrupting accounting firms, requiring changes in strategy.
• Firms must invest in technology, people, and new service offerings to stay competitive. Lack of investment reduces profitability.
• Metrics like revenue per professional and realization rates indicate a firm's pricing, profitability, client mix and other performance factors.
• Future-focused firms are expanding into advisory services beyond compliance work to add value.
• Staff want vision, training, and empowerment - not just remote work options - to stay engaged.
• Private equity investments are changing ownership models and bringing new leadership approaches to firms.

Quotable Quotes:

"The disruption is occurring all around them and they can't control it."

"CPA firms, accounting firms, they're becoming consultant agencies."

Jim Bourke is a thought leader in the accounting profession. Jim and host, Rob Brown, extensively discuss the impact of private equity investments and rapidly evolving technology on the accounting landscape.

Bourke emphasizes the substantial changes brought about by private equity, altering traditional norms of firm acquisitions and augmenting profitability. He also underscores how technology, particularly artificial intelligence and machine learning, is reshaping the profession.

He talks about the demographic shift witnessed in the field with younger, tech-savvy professionals driving change. Additionally, the conversation touches upon the challenges and opportunities faced by firms contemplating mergers and acquisitions.

Bourke offers valuable advice for both junior and senior professionals in the accounting industry to stay relevant and thrive in the face of these sweeping transformations.

Key Takeaways

➯Private equity has permanently changed the accounting profession, affecting acquisitions, firm structure, and revenue models.

➯Technology, such as generative AI, is transforming the way accountants work and offering opportunities for increased efficiency and specialization.

➯Young professionals should view mergers and acquisitions as opportunities for growth and differentiation within the evolving accounting landscape.

➯Successful deals require a period of engagement and cultural alignment, as deals that neglect these factors are more likely to fail.

➯To stay relevant, accountants must embrace change, invest in technology, and adapt to the evolving needs and expectations of clients.

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The Accounting Influencers Podcast, hosted by Rob Brown, is one of the world's leading shows for accounting leaders, professionals, finance specialists, software vendors, tech providers and influencers. To participate in our international virtual speed networking events for the accounting community, book your place at the next gathering. Great for building your personal brand and making valuable industry connections in return for a small donation to charity: https://accountinginfluencers.com/events

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Thanks to our sponsors:

ADVANCETRACK OUTSOURCING. Transform your accounting firm with AdvanceTrack. Our top-tier offshoring solutions free your team from mundane tasks, allowing you to focus on growth and client engagement. Experience seamless scalability and expert support. Visit advancetrack.com and elevate your practice today. https://www.advancetrack.com

ACCOUNTEX. Join us at Accountex London, the pinnacle of fintech innovation, May 15-16, 2024! Discover ground-breaking solutions from 295+ brands and gain invaluable insights at our CPD-accredited sessions. Connect with 10,000+ finance professionals. Elevate your practice – attendance is free, plus earn up to 16 CPD points! https://www.accountex.co.uk/london

DEXT. Streamline your accounting practice with Dext! Our cutting-edge tools, Dext Prepare, Commerce, and Precision, revolutionize data handling, saving you precious time and ensuring accuracy. Connect seamlessly with leading software like Xero and QBO. Join 500,000+ customers transforming their practices. Start your free trial and embrace efficiency today! https://dext.com

If you'd like to sponsor the show and elevate your brand with our audience, reach out to show host Rob Brown on LinkedIn and his team will reach out to fix up a chat to explore.

Rob Brown interviews Katie Thomas, a podcasting expert, about the benefits of podcasting for accountants and finance professionals. Katie makes a compelling case for why podcasting is worth the investment of time and resources, even in a crowded space with over 5 million active podcasts.

Katie explains how podcasting helps build relationships and trust with both existing and prospective clients. It establishes you as an expert in your niche and gives you a platform to share valuable insights. Podcasting also generates content that can be repurposed across social media, your website, and other marketing channels.

Katie also offers practical tips for getting started, like batch recording episodes in advance for busy seasons and working with a professional agency so you only have to focus on the recording.

Key Takeaways:

➯ Podcasting builds trust and relationships with your audience.

➯ It establishes you as an expert in your niche.

➯ A podcast spearheads content that can be repurposed across channels.

➯ You don't need millions of listeners to benefit.

➯ Consider hiring an agency to handle production so you simply have to record.

"Podcasting is a way that you can build peri-social relationships. So you don’t have to go out 1 by 1 to all these people listening to your podcast or consuming your content that. your content that’s a byproduct of that podcast, but rather those people, they feel like they know you, they like you, they trust you, but you’re doing it on a mass scale."

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The Accounting Influencers Podcast, hosted by Rob Brown, is one of the world's leading shows for accounting leaders, professionals, finance specialists, software vendors, tech providers and influencers. To participate in our international virtual speed networking events for the accounting community, book your place at the next gathering. Great for building your personal brand and making valuable industry connections in return for a small donation to charity: https://accountinginfluencers.com/events

◣━━━━━━━━━━━━━━━━━━━━◢

Thanks to our sponsors:

ADVANCETRACK OUTSOURCING. Transform your accounting firm with AdvanceTrack. Our top-tier offshoring solutions free your team from mundane tasks, allowing you to focus on growth and client engagement. Experience seamless scalability and expert support. Visit advancetrack.com and elevate your practice today. https://www.advancetrack.com

ACCOUNTEX. Join us at Accountex London, the pinnacle of fintech innovation, May 15-16, 2024! Discover ground-breaking solutions from 295+ brands and gain invaluable insights at our CPD-accredited sessions. Connect with 10,000+ finance professionals. Elevate your practice – attendance is free, plus earn up to 16 CPD points! https://www.accountex.co.uk/london

DEXT. Streamline your accounting practice with Dext! Our cutting-edge tools, Dext Prepare, Commerce, and Precision, revolutionize data handling, saving you precious time and ensuring accuracy. Connect seamlessly with leading software like Xero and QBO. Join 500,000+ customers transforming their practices. Start your free trial and embrace efficiency today! https://dext.com

If you'd like to sponsor the show and elevate your brand with our audience, reach out to show host Rob Brown on LinkedIn and his team will reach out to fix up a chat to explore.

https://www.linkedin.com/in/therobbrown

You can also...

Rob Brown interviews Geni Whitehouse, an accountant turned speaker, author, and trainer who helps CPAs make the transition from compliance work to becoming trusted advisors for their clients.

They discuss why technology hasn't replaced accountants, the importance of communication skills for advisors, asking insightful questions, and overcoming the resistance many accountants have to expanding their services.

Geni emphasizes that the future of the accounting profession depends on building deeper relationships with clients by uncovering their goals and turning financial data into meaningful insights.

Key Takeaways:

• Technology like AI will augment the work of accountants, not replace them. Accountants will be freed up to focus on more strategic insights.
• Communication skills, especially listening, are critical for advisors. Asking thoughtful questions is key to understanding client needs.
• Advisors don't impose solutions. They collaborate with clients to develop custom strategies based on their goals.
• Accountants have invaluable financial knowledge but need to learn to convey it visually for clients.
• Firms need to help accountants find time for learning and collaboration to expand their advisory skills.

"Technology, is going to be the final liberating force in our lives that allows us to do the stuff that we really want to do."

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The Accounting Influencers Podcast drops every Monday to accounting professionals, finance specialists, software vendors, tech providers and influencers across 150 countries in the accountancy, CPA and bookkeeping space. To participate in our international virtual speed networking events for the accounting community, book your place at the next gathering: https://accountinginfluencers.com/events. Great to build your personal brand and make valuable industry connections in return for a small donation to charity.

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Thanks to our sponsors:

ADVANCETRACK OUTSOURCING. Transform your accounting firm with AdvanceTrack. Our top-tier offshoring solutions free your team from mundane tasks, allowing you to focus on growth and client engagement. Experience seamless scalability and expert support. Visit advancetrack.com and elevate your practice today. https://www.advancetrack.com

ACCOUNTEX. Join us at Accountex London, the pinnacle of fintech innovation, May 15-16, 2024! Discover ground-breaking solutions from 295+ brands and gain invaluable insights at our CPD-accredited sessions. Connect with 10,000+ finance professionals. Elevate your practice – attendance is free, plus earn up to 16 CPD points! https://www.accountex.co.uk/london

DEXT. Streamline your accounting practice with Dext! Our cutting-edge tools, Dext Prepare, Commerce, and Precision, revolutionize data handling, saving you precious time and ensuring accuracy. Connect seamlessly with leading software like Xero and QBO. Join 500,000+ customers transforming their practices. Start your free trial and embrace efficiency today! https://dext.com

If you'd like to sponsor the show and elevate your brand with our audience, reach out to show host Rob Brown on LinkedIn and his team will reach out to fix up a chat to explore.

https://www.linkedin.com/in/therobbrown

You can also check out all shows on the Accounting Influencers YouTube Channel

In this insightful conversation, Nicolas Boucher shares his perspective on how artificial intelligence (AI) and tools like ChatGPT are transforming the accounting and finance functions.

He emphasizes that AI will not make these roles obsolete but rather enable professionals to focus on more strategic and value-adding activities. Boucher highlights the importance of embracing technology, learning coding (e.g., Python), and developing communication skills to effectively translate financial insights to non-finance stakeholders.

Key Takeaways:

• AI and ChatGPT can significantly increase productivity and automation, allowing finance professionals to spend more time on analysis and strategic decision-making.
• Learning coding languages like Python and leveraging ChatGPT's capabilities can automate mundane tasks and enable more effective data analysis.
• Communication skills are crucial for finance professionals to effectively translate financial data and insights to non-finance stakeholders and decision-makers.
• Embracing AI and continuous learning are essential for finance professionals to remain relevant and add value in a rapidly changing business landscape.
• The future of finance lies in strategic advisory roles, providing insights and guidance to business partners, rather than solely focusing on compliance and reporting.

"The world is going to belong to people that are the best at communicating ideas, not going to belong to the people that have the best ideas." - Nicolas Boucher

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The Accounting Influencers Podcast, hosted by Rob Brown, is one of the world's leading shows for accounting leaders, professionals, finance specialists, software vendors, tech providers and influencers. To participate in our international virtual speed networking events for the accounting community, book your place at the next gathering. Great for building your personal brand and making valuable industry connections in return for a small donation to charity: https://accountinginfluencers.com/events

◣━━━━━━━━━━━━━━━━━━━━◢

Thanks to our sponsors:

ADVANCETRACK OUTSOURCING. Transform your accounting firm with AdvanceTrack. Our top-tier offshoring solutions free your team from mundane tasks, allowing you to focus on growth and client engagement. Experience seamless scalability and expert support. Visit advancetrack.com and elevate your practice today. https://www.advancetrack.com

ACCOUNTEX. Join us at Accountex London, the pinnacle of fintech innovation, May 15-16, 2024! Discover ground-breaking solutions from 295+ brands and gain invaluable insights at our CPD-accredited sessions. Connect with 10,000+ finance professionals. Elevate your practice – attendance is free, plus earn up to 16 CPD points! https://www.accountex.co.uk/london

DEXT. Streamline your accounting practice with Dext! Our cutting-edge tools, Dext Prepare, Commerce, and Precision, revolutionize data handling, saving you precious time and ensuring accuracy. Connect seamlessly with leading software like Xero and QBO. Join 500,000+ customers transforming their practices. Start your free trial and embrace efficiency today! https://dext.com

If you'd like to sponsor the show and elevate your brand with our audience, reach out to show host Rob Brown on LinkedIn and his team will reach out to fix up a chat to explore.

Marketing expert Jo Edwards brings 35 years of experience to the topic of personal branding for accountants and CPAs in creating industry rockstars in accounting.

Jo shares why building a strong personal brand is critical for standing out and attracting high-quality clients in a competitive marketplace.

Rob and Jo discuss how to build an authentic brand aligned with your interests, the power of microniche expertise, and how to measure your brand's progress.

Jo emphasizes being intentional about developing your brand and using tools like content creation and public speaking to raise your profile. She offers advice for overcoming introversion and making time for branding activities.

Jo argues that amplifying your personal brand is essential for commanding premium fees, generating referrals, fast-tracking your career, and achieving influence in your firm.

Key Takeaways:

• The "three R's" of personal branding are recognition, reputation, and respect. A strong brand helps you get "paid" through attention, high fees, and referrals.
• Authenticity is crucial - crafting a brand that's not true to you is hard to maintain long-term. Align your brand with your genuine interests.
• Consider micro-niche expertise, becoming known as the go-to expert in a very specialized area aligned with your interests.
• Measure progress by conversions - when target audiences seek you out, invite you to speak, and refer new business to you.
• Use tools like content creation, public speaking, and networking, but play to your strengths and act within your comfort zone. Seek help from mentors.

"Any accountancy firm that isn't winning more than 80 percent of their new work from referrals is doing something wrong."

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The Accounting Influencers Podcast drops every Monday to accounting professionals, finance specialists, software vendors, tech providers and influencers across 150 countries in the accountancy, CPA and bookkeeping space. To participate in our international virtual speed networking events for the accounting community, book your place at the next gathering: https://accountinginfluencers.com/events. Great to build your personal brand and make valuable industry connections in return for a small donation to charity.

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Thanks to our sponsors:

ADVANCETRACK OUTSOURCING. Transform your accounting firm with AdvanceTrack. Our top-tier offshoring solutions free your team from mundane tasks, allowing you to focus on growth and client engagement. Experience seamless scalability and expert support. Visit advancetrack.com and elevate your practice today. https://www.advancetrack.com

ACCOUNTEX. Join us at Accountex London, the pinnacle of fintech innovation, May 15-16, 2024! Discover ground-breaking solutions from 295+ brands and gain invaluable insights at our CPD-accredited sessions. Connect with 10,000+ finance professionals. Elevate your practice – attendance is free, plus earn up to 16 CPD points! https://www.accountex.co.uk/london

DEXT. Streamline your accounting practice with Dext! Our cutting-edge tools, Dext Prepare, Commerce, and Precision, revolutionize data handling, saving you precious time and ensuring accuracy. Connect seamlessly with leading software like Xero and QBO. Join 500,000+ customers transforming their practices. Start your free trial and embrace efficiency today! https://dext.com

If you'd like to sponsor the show and elevate your brand with...

Steve Cox, Director of Business Intelligence @ IRIS Software Group, shares what works for accountants and CPAs during and post busy tax seasons.

Rob and Steve discuss the international prevalence of busy seasons, and the impact it has on accountants in terms of long hours, stress and mental health.

Steve provides advice for accountants on how to get through busy season and how to reflect afterwards on what went well and what could improve. He emphasizes the importance of long-term planning and strategy, reviewing your client list, and looking at processes and workflows.

Steve also discusses the role of software vendors in supporting accountants during busy season. He predicts that busy season will continue but technology and benchmarking can help smooth out the cycles.

Key Takeaways:

• Busy season is an international phenomenon, with accountants worldwide facing intense workloads leading up to tax deadlines.
• Busy season takes a toll on accountants through sleep deprivation, stress, and negative impacts on health and family life.
• After busy season, accountants should reflect on what went well, what could improve, and what's in their control to change.
• Long-term planning and strategy is critical rather than just focusing on the short-term. Review your client list and staff wellbeing.
• Software vendors play a key role in supporting accountants during busy season as an agony aunt and shoulder to cry on.
• Technology like AI may make compliance tasks easier but won't eliminate busy seasons. Knowledge sharing will help.

"Frazzled is a really good word to describe them because there isn’t much else you can say. It is all those long hours take their toll."

"Is life going to get easier for an accountant? No. Everyone seems to be thinking that AI is either going to come and replace their jobs or make their lives easier."

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The Accounting Influencers Podcast drops every Monday to accounting professionals, finance specialists, software vendors, tech providers and influencers across 150 countries in the accountancy, CPA and bookkeeping space. To participate in our international virtual speed networking events for the accounting community, go to https://accountinginfluencers.com/events and book your place at the next gathering. Great to build your personal brand and make valuable industry connections.

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You can watch this episode and more on our YouTube Channel

https://www.youtube.com/@accountinginfluencers

Join the Accounting Influencers community and get invitations to our international speed networking events to build your personal brand and network in the accounting, finance and tech world: https://www.linkedin.com/company/accountinginfluencers

For videos of all podcast interviews and bonus video content: https://bit.ly/AI-youtube

Thanks to our sponsors:

ADVANCETRACK OUTSOURCING. Transform your accounting firm with AdvanceTrack. Our top-tier offshoring solutions free your team from mundane tasks, allowing you to focus on growth and client engagement. Experience seamless scalability and expert support. Visit advancetrack.com and elevate your practice today. https://www.advancetrack.com

ACCOUNTEX. Join us at Accountex London, the pinnacle of fintech innovation, May 15-16, 2024! Discover ground-breaking solutions from 295+

Welcome to the Accounting Influencers Podcast, dropping every Monday to 40,000 accounting professionals, finance specialists, software vendors, tech providers and influencers across 150 countries in the accountancy, CPA and bookkeeping space. To participate in our international virtual speed networking events for the accounting community, go to https://accountinginfluencers.com/events and book your place at the next gathering. Great to build your personal brand and make valuable industry connections.

For today's show "Ken Schmitt, Founder of TurningPoint Executive Search and 'The Practical Optimist' author, discusses practical optimism tools for accountants in tough times."

In this inspiring episode, host Rob Brown interviews author and executive recruiter Ken Schmitt about cultivating practical optimism. They discuss how leaders can create engaged, empowered teams by trusting employees and giving them autonomy. 

Schmitt emphasizes taking "baby steps" to make changes sustainable, whether it's becoming more optimistic personally or reaching big goals professionally. He suggests limiting doomscrolling on social media and following more uplifting accounts instead. 

Schmitt also stresses the importance of transparency and open communication when mistakes inevitably happen, noting that optimism enables resilience and perseverance. With tips for improving mental health, nurturing relationships, and achieving work-life balance, this episode provides an optimistic roadmap to start the new year off right.  

Overall, Schmitt makes the case that optimism is an attainable mindset, not pie-in-the-sky wishful thinking. 

Key Takeaways:

- Optimism is a mindset and a frame of reference. It's about believing you can make a positive difference, even amidst uncertainty.

- Leaders who empower and trust their teams create more engagement and satisfaction. Micromanaging squashes innovation.

- Transparency about company culture and clear communication of expectations helps attract and retain the right talent.

- Limit doomscrolling on social media. Follow accounts that bring you joy and inspiration instead.

- Mental health challenges are surmountable. Seeking help is a sign of strength and agency, not weakness. 

"If you're too optimistic, you may take big risks that don't pay off. If you're too practical, you won't take many risks at all."

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The Accounting Influencers Podcast drops every Monday to accounting professionals, finance specialists, software vendors, tech providers and influencers across 150 countries in the accountancy, CPA and bookkeeping space. To participate in our international virtual speed networking events for the accounting community, go to https://accountinginfluencers.com/events and book your place at the next gathering. Great to build your personal brand and make valuable industry connections.

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You can watch this episode and more on our YouTube Channel

https://www.youtube.com/@accountinginfluencers

Join the Accounting Influencers community and get invitations to our international speed networking events to build your personal brand and network in the accounting, finance and tech world: https://www.linkedin.com/company/accountinginfluencers

For videos of all podcast interviews and bonus video content:

"CEO Richard Kopelman unveils Aprio's massive expansion, secret projects and shares invaluable CPA advice for global accounting success."

Richard Kopelman, CEO and Managing Partner of accounting firm Aprio, shares his personal philosophy of staying positive and never giving up, the importance of having a well-written strategic plan, and his vision to have truly global accounting firms.

Kopelman shares how staying positive and persistent has been key to leading Aprio's tremendous growth from $70 million to $450 million in revenue. 

He emphasizes the importance of having a well-defined strategic plan and sticking to it, even though growth is never a straight line. 

Kopelman also provides insight into transitioning accounting firms beyond traditional partnership structures into more corporate models in order to scale. His vision is to have truly global accounting firms without restrictions. 

Throughout the discussion, Kopelman's passion for the profession and commitment to seizing opportunities comes through clearly.

"My personal philosophy is to stay positive and never give up. I'm not very good at taking no for an answer."

Key Takeaways:

• Staying positive and never giving up has been Kopelman's key to success in leading Aprio from $70M to $450M in revenue.
• Having a well-defined strategic plan is crucial - you need a North Star even though growth is never a straight line.
• Firms need to move beyond traditional partnership structures and embrace more corporate approaches to scale.
• Hiring great people and getting out of their way is his leadership philosophy.

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You can watch this episode and more on our YouTube Channel

https://www.youtube.com/@accountinginfluencers

Join the Accounting Influencers community and get invitations to our international speed networking events to build your personal brand and network in the accounting, finance and tech world: https://www.linkedin.com/company/accountinginfluencers

For videos of all podcast interviews and bonus video content: https://bit.ly/AI-youtube

Thanks to our sponsors:

ADVANCETRACK OUTSOURCING. Transform your accounting firm with AdvanceTrack. Our top-tier offshoring solutions free your team from mundane tasks, allowing you to focus on growth and client engagement. Experience seamless scalability and expert support. Visit advancetrack.com and elevate your practice today. https://www.advancetrack.com

ACCOUNTEX. Join us at Accountex London, the pinnacle of fintech innovation, May 15-16, 2024! Discover ground-breaking solutions from 295+ brands and gain invaluable insights at our CPD-accredited sessions. Connect with 10,000+ finance professionals. Elevate your practice – attendance is free, plus earn up to 16 CPD points! https://www.accountex.co.uk/london

DEXT. Streamline your accounting practice with Dext! Our cutting-edge tools, Dext Prepare, Commerce, and Precision, revolutionize data handling, saving you precious time and ensuring accuracy. Connect seamlessly with leading software like Xero and QBO. Join 500,000+ customers transforming their practices. Start your free trial and embrace efficiency today! https://dext.com

If you'd like to sponsor the show and elevate your brand with our audience, reach...

"Explore the success journey of Aprio, a Top 30 US Accounting Firm, with CEO Richard Kopelman. Gain insights from overseeing 25+ strategic mergers & acquisitions."

Richard Kopelman, CEO and Managing Partner of Aprio, discusses the exciting transformation and rebranding of HA&W into a global business advisory and accounting firm.

He explores the high demand for accounting services due to changes in business, regulatory requirements, and technology. A key challenge for accounting firms, according to Kopelman, often lies in mindset, with many professionals needing to shift from a risk-averse outlook to a more positive, entrepreneurial one.

He highlights the importance of an inclusive, growing, and nurturing work culture and leveraging technology for business operations, emphasizing the crucial role of data. He shares the hiring strategies of Aprio and discusses the future of the accounting sector, expressing a keen interest in the endless opportunities that constant change brings.

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The Accounting Influencers Podcast drops every Monday to accounting professionals, finance specialists, software vendors, tech providers and influencers across 150 countries in the accountancy, CPA and bookkeeping space. To participate in our international virtual speed networking events for the accounting community, go to https://accountinginfluencers.com/events and book your place at the next gathering. Great to build your personal brand and make valuable industry connections.

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You can watch this episode and more on our YouTube Channel

https://www.youtube.com/@accountinginfluencers

Join the Accounting Influencers community and get invitations to our international speed networking events to build your personal brand and network in the accounting, finance and tech world: https://www.linkedin.com/company/accountinginfluencers

For videos of all podcast interviews and bonus video content: https://bit.ly/AI-youtube

Thanks to our sponsors:

ADVANCETRACK OUTSOURCING. Transform your accounting firm with AdvanceTrack. Our top-tier offshoring solutions free your team from mundane tasks, allowing you to focus on growth and client engagement. Experience seamless scalability and expert support. Visit advancetrack.com and elevate your practice today. https://www.advancetrack.com

ACCOUNTEX. Join us at Accountex London, the pinnacle of fintech innovation, May 15-16, 2024! Discover ground-breaking solutions from 295+ brands and gain invaluable insights at our CPD-accredited sessions. Connect with 10,000+ finance professionals. Elevate your practice – attendance is free, plus earn up to 16 CPD points! https://www.accountex.co.uk/london

DEXT. Streamline your accounting practice with Dext! Our cutting-edge tools, Dext Prepare, Commerce, and Precision, revolutionize data handling, saving you precious time and ensuring accuracy. Connect seamlessly with leading software like Xero and QBO. Join 500,000+ customers transforming their practices. Start your free trial and embrace efficiency today! https://dext.com

If you'd like to sponsor the show and elevate your brand with our audience, reach out to show host Rob Brown on...

Jennifer Warawa is a trailblazer in the accounting world. She's the North American president of a leading firm, a self-made entrepreneur, and even a foster parent. However, her standout achievement isn't just financial—it's a remarkable employee net promoter score (NPS) above 60. Her workplace thrives on purpose, passion, and even a few laughs, like the notorious beanbag chair mishap. Learn how to build a company culture where employees are genuinely happy and engaged.

Dive into the world of digital transformation in accounting firms. Jennifer reflects on a stagnant decade-long conversation. While some firms embrace tech, others lag, widening the gap. Discover why change is crucial for future success and explore the clash between fast-paced tech and the traditional accounting profession. Accountants must offer more value by focusing on higher-level tasks. Discover which firms will thrive and how to attract and retain talent.

Why resist change? Comfort with the status quo or thinking clients are content might be reasons. However, clients may not fully grasp an accountant's value until they experience it elsewhere.

Learn how automation can boost efficiency and allow accountants to focus on high-value tasks.

Jennifer Warawa is a seasoned professional with over two decades of experience in the accounting field. She successfully operated her firm in Canada for half of her impressive career. In the other half, she took on various high-profile global executive leadership roles at Sage.

Jennifer currently holds the esteemed position of President at QuickFee North America, headquartered in Dallas, Texas. QuickFee specialises in cutting-edge financing, online payment, and e-invoicing solutions, primarily catering to professional service firms, particularly in the accounting and legal sectors.

Jennifer's outstanding accomplishments have garnered her a multitude of prestigious honours. She was consistently among the Top 25 Most Powerful Women in Accounting according to the CPA Practice Advisor and the AICPA for an impressive seven-year period from 2013 to 2019. Accounting Today also celebrated her as one of the Top 100 Most Influential People for an impressive nine consecutive years from 2010 to 2018. Furthermore, she stood out as a remarkable talent by being honoured as a member of the "Top 40 Under 40" by CPA Practice Advisor for an impressive six years straight, from 2010 to 2015.

Beyond her illustrious career, Jennifer is renowned as a thought leader. As a keynote speaker, she has graced numerous industry events and business conferences, consistently earning top ratings for her insightful contributions.

On a personal note, Jennifer and her husband, Shane, have been a devoted foster parent since 2014. Their home has been a haven for 11 children, ranging in age from 6 to 18, exemplifying their deep commitment to making a positive impact in the lives of others.

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The Accounting Influencers Podcast drops every Monday to accounting professionals, finance specialists, software vendors, tech providers and influencers across 150 countries in the accountancy, CPA and bookkeeping space. To participate in our international virtual speed networking events for the accounting community, go to https://accountinginfluencers.com/events and book your place at the next gathering. Great to build your personal brand and make valuable industry connections. ◣━━━━━━━━━━━━━━━━━━━━◢

You can watch this episode and more on our YouTube Channel

https://www.youtube.com/@accountinginfluencers

Join the Accounting Influencers community and get invitations to our international speed networking events to build your personal brand and network in the accounting,...

The Art of Saying No & Other Productivity Strategies with Mark Fritz

Mark Fritz focuses on the vital topic of saying no and setting boundaries. Mark highlights the significance of being assertive and maintaining focus to say no to various demands and requests effectively. He emphasises the value of listening and understanding the perspective of others when communicating a refusal. Mark also discusses the challenges busy professionals face, particularly accountants, who often feel overwhelmed by the multitude of tasks and responsibilities they have to handle.

He shares his observations on the current era of information overload and the need for individuals to prioritise and do less to achieve more. Mark suggests learning from other sectors can provide valuable insights and strategies for managing workload and avoiding burnout. The episode further delves into the psychological factors behind saying no, such as fear of disappointing others, fear of missing out (FOMO), and the pressure to fit in or be seen as a team player.

Mark offers practical advice on overcoming these fears and setting personal boundaries. He advocates for open communication and understanding between colleagues and leaders and the importance of aligning personal and professional priorities. In addition, the episode explores the role of scripts or prepared responses in navigating difficult conversations and saying no clearly and concisely. Mark highlights the importance of staying true to one's boundaries and goals and avoiding over-commitment. Throughout the interview, Mark provides examples, personal anecdotes, and practical tips on developing the confidence and assertiveness needed to say no effectively.

Mark Fritz is an accomplished leader who focuses on driving change across diverse cultures and distances. With a rich international career spanning numerous countries, including Egypt, Netherlands, Italy, and Japan, Mark has successfully spearheaded enterprise-level change initiatives. His expertise lies in leading transformation and reengineering efforts, effectively managing virtual teams, and fostering the growth of diverse, resilient groups.

Mark has left an indelible mark on executives and organisations worldwide as a renowned leadership specialist. He has been instrumental in helping them reshape their leadership approaches, resulting in improved outcomes and lasting impact. Mark's influence extends to prestigious business schools like IE Business School and HEC, where he imparts his wisdom through enlightening courses on leadership and influence.

Within organisations, Mark crafts tailored leadership programs that fortify leaders and equip them with the tools necessary for growth and triumph. His journey has taken him around the globe, where he's lived in various countries and worked in over 50 nations. Currently residing in London with his Japanese wife, Mark enjoys playing golf and cherishes collaborating with individuals from diverse cultural backgrounds, recognising the invaluable lessons such experiences offer.

Mark Fritz is renowned for his commitment to empowering leaders to shift away from micromanagement and embrace a culture of ownership and achievement. His expertise lies in unlocking the full potential of teams. Through impactful keynotes and masterclasses, he delivers inspirational experiences brimming with practical advice and actionable steps.

With a steadfast dedication to enhancing performance, influencing others, and mentoring, Mark's thought-provoking sessions and ongoing support have become integral to organisations' growth journeys. His unique blend of inspiration and practicality leaves audiences with clear actions and a deep desire to become the leaders they aspire to be. Mark Fritz is the catalyst for transformation and excellence in leadership.

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The Accounting Influencers Podcast drops every Monday to accounting

Rob Brown interviews Marina Koijmans, a talent and workplace expert, on the topic of talent management and upskilling in the accounting profession. Marina begins by explaining the challenges of talent management in today's rapidly changing world. She highlights the importance of reskilling and upskilling due to the ever-changing marketplace and the need for organizations to adapt and stay relevant. She mentions that technology-driven change and innovation are key drivers of this need for new skills.

The conversation then shifts to the perception of accountants as not traditionally being associated with innovation. Marina acknowledges this but emphasizes that the accounting profession is also evolving and recognizing the importance of upskilling and change. She explains that accountants need to acquire not only technical skills but also digital skills and advisory skills to meet the changing needs of customers.

Marina introduces the concept of a skill strategy and explains that organizations need to focus on skills rather than job descriptions. She mentions the importance of internal mobility and how it allows employees to develop new skills in different environments. She also highlights the benefits of international mobility, as it provides opportunities to learn from different cultures and enhance career growth.

The conversation then delves into the various skills and competencies that should be part of any skill strategy or framework. Marina outlines five skill groups: technical skills, digital skills, advisory skills, leadership skills, and human skills. She emphasizes the importance of leadership, storytelling, problem-solving, ethics, integrity, and effective communication in the accounting profession.

Rob and Marina discuss the challenges faced by accountants in upgrading their skills. Marina acknowledges that many accountants feel comfortable with their current knowledge and are hesitant to step out of their comfort zones, particularly when it comes to human skills. However, she highlights the importance of continuous learning and personal development to stay relevant in a changing landscape.

The conversation concludes with Marina discussing different learning approaches and methods. She mentions the use of blended learning, including classroom training, e-learning, and audio books. Marina emphasizes the need for individuals to take responsibility for their own learning and development.

Overall, this episode of the Accounting Influencers podcast provides valuable insights into the challenges and importance of talent management and upskilling in the accounting profession. It highlights the need for accountants to adapt, develop new skills, and embrace continuous learning to succeed in a rapidly changing industry.

Marina Kooijman is the Chief People Officer at HLB, based at the Executive Office in London. In this pivotal role, Marina spearheads the development and execution of HLB's comprehensive people strategy, driving the organization towards innovation and inspiration. She is deeply committed to fostering a vibrant corporate culture rooted in HLB's core values and purpose.

Marina firmly believes that nurturing talent and cultivating a diverse, inclusive environment, where every individual feels secure, valued, and respected, is the key to achieving business success and sustainable growth.

Before joining HLB International, Marina garnered a wealth of experience working with renowned international firms such as Deloitte and PwC, both in the Netherlands and across borders. Her extensive background in talent management positions her as a seasoned professional in her field.

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The Accounting Influencers Podcast drops every Monday to accounting professionals, finance specialists, software vendors, tech providers and influencers across 150 countries in the accountancy, CPA and bookkeeping space. To participate in our...

Rob interviews Jeff Gramlich from Validis. They discuss various topics related to the accounting profession and the role of technology in driving efficiency and quality. Jeff shares insights on the paradigm shift towards data-driven audits and the impact of technology on the industry. They also explore the challenges of attracting and retaining talent in the accounting profession. Jeff highlights the difference between good and great accounting firms and the importance of technology adoption in staying ahead. They also touch on the future of the profession and the exciting opportunities that lie ahead. Tune in to this episode to gain valuable insights and perspectives on the accounting profession and the role of technology in shaping its future.

Jeff is a seasoned CPA with over 40 years of experience in the accounting industry, having started his career at Arthur Young & Co. He holds a CITP certification and has made significant contributions to the US accounting sector. Notable highlights include his role as President & CEO of the Small Firm Services business unit at CCH and serving as President of AccountantsWorld. Jeff is deeply committed to enhancing the industry, from streamlining everyday workflows to elevating overall quality standards. In his current role at Validis, he is at the forefront of leveraging technology for audit processes and establishing key strategic partnerships to bring cutting-edge ideas and solutions to the market.

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The Accounting Influencers Podcast drops every Monday to accounting professionals, finance specialists, software vendors, tech providers and influencers across 150 countries in the accountancy, CPA and bookkeeping space. To participate in our international virtual speed networking events for the accounting community, go to https://accountinginfluencers.com/events and book your place at the next gathering. Great to build your personal brand and make valuable industry connections.

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You can watch this episode and more on our YouTube Channel

https://www.youtube.com/@accountinginfluencers

Join the Accounting Influencers community and get invitations to our international speed networking events to build your personal brand and network in the accounting, finance and tech world: https://www.linkedin.com/company/accountinginfluencers

For videos of all podcast interviews and bonus video content: https://bit.ly/AI-youtube

Thanks to our sponsors:

ADVANCETRACK OUTSOURCING. Transform your accounting firm with AdvanceTrack. Our top-tier offshoring solutions free your team from mundane tasks, allowing you to focus on growth and client engagement. Experience seamless scalability and expert support. Visit advancetrack.com and elevate your practice today. https://www.advancetrack.com

ACCOUNTEX. Join us at Accountex London, the pinnacle of fintech innovation, May 15-16, 2024! Discover ground-breaking solutions from 295+ brands and gain invaluable insights at our CPD-accredited sessions. Connect with 10,000+ finance professionals. Elevate your practice – attendance is free, plus earn up to 16 CPD points! https://www.accountex.co.uk/london

DEXT. Streamline your accounting practice with Dext! Our cutting-edge tools, Dext Prepare, Commerce, and Precision,...

Rob Brown interviews Chirag Shah, the founder and CEO of Nucleus Commercial Finance, a UK-focused lender.

Chirag discusses the challenges and opportunities in the financial space, particularly in lending and funding. He also talks about the importance of financial analysis and forecasting for businesses, emphasizing the need for businesses to understand their cash flow and plan effectively.

The interview highlights the role of accountants and advisors in helping businesses make sound financial decisions and navigate uncertain economic conditions.

Chirag Shah is the founder and CEO of Pulse, a visionary platform that empowers businesses, accountants, and business advisors with a tailored dashboard showcasing vital statistics and trends. With over two decades of experience in financial services, Chirag has consistently demonstrated his expertise. In 2011, he pioneered the establishment of Nucleus, a renowned alternative finance entity, offering flexible and personalized financial solutions for SMEs, regardless of their industry or growth stage.

Recognizing the pressing economic challenges UK SMEs face, Chirag introduced Pulse in October 2022, a groundbreaking platform harnessing the power of AI for in-depth financial analysis, benefitting both businesses and accountants. Chirag's mission extends beyond enhancing the UK's business landscape; he is dedicated to assisting SMEs in honing their data comprehension skills to chart a path to success. Chirag's expertise encompasses the significance of forecasting, the key elements that constitute effective forecasts, and the selection of the proper forecasting tools.

His vision for Pulse revolves around transforming it into a comprehensive forecasting tool, addressing the challenges SMEs encounter, elucidating Pulse's role, and exploring the far-reaching implications of AI in this context.

For more information about Nucleus, visit https://nucleuscommercialfinance.com/

To learn more about Pulse, https://mypulse.io/

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The Accounting Influencers Podcast drops every Monday to accounting professionals, finance specialists, software vendors, tech providers and influencers across 150 countries in the accountancy, CPA and bookkeeping space. To participate in our international virtual speed networking events for the accounting community, go to https://accountinginfluencers.com/events and book your place at the next gathering. Great to build your personal brand and make valuable industry connections.

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You can watch this episode and more on our YouTube Channel

https://www.youtube.com/@accountinginfluencers

Join the Accounting Influencers community and get invitations to our international speed networking events to build your personal brand and network in the accounting, finance and tech world: https://www.linkedin.com/company/accountinginfluencers

For videos of all podcast interviews and bonus video content: https://bit.ly/AI-youtube

Thanks to our sponsors:

ADVANCETRACK OUTSOURCING. Transform your accounting firm with AdvanceTrack. Our top-tier offshoring solutions free your team from mundane tasks, allowing you to focus on growth and client engagement. Experience seamless scalability and expert support. Visit advancetrack.com and elevate your practice today.

Understanding the Vendor-Accountant Relationship and the Future of Events in Accounting

In this episode of the Accounting Influencers Podcast, host Rob Brown conducts an in-depth interview with Seth Feinberg, author of the Feinberg Review. They discuss the evolving relationship between tech vendors and accountants, including the trust issues and the need for vendors to better understand accountants' needs. Seth highlights the role of events for vendors to directly communicate with their target market. The conversation covers how vendors can build more meaningful relationships with accountants, the future of accounting events, and how the profession can evolve with these changes.

Seth Fineberg is a seasoned accounting industry consultant and Content Strategist with an impressive track record spanning over 30 years. His extensive career has primarily revolved around shaping the evolution of the accounting profession. Seth's notable roles include serving as the Technology Editor at Accounting Today and leading AccountingWEB's US team.

In his current venture, Accountants Forward, Seth is dedicated to driving progress within the accounting profession by curating high-quality, practical, and valuable content. He takes on various roles in content creation and execution, including articles, podcasts, webinars, white papers, and live events.

For those seeking valuable insights and updates, Seth offers a Free Weekly newsletter on his website. He is also a recognized contributor to prominent publications such as CPA Trendlines, Karbon Magazine, Accounting Today, and The Woodard Report.

Seth's expertise lies in two key areas: (1) fostering strong vendor-accounting relationships and (2) orchestrating successful events, marketing strategies, media outreach, and garnering attention in the accounting industry.

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The Accounting Influencers Podcast drops every Monday to accounting professionals, finance specialists, software vendors, tech providers and influencers across 150 countries in the accountancy, CPA and bookkeeping space. To participate in our international virtual speed networking events for the accounting community, go to https://accountinginfluencers.com/events and book your place at the next gathering. Great to build your personal brand and make valuable industry connections.

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You can watch this episode and more on our YouTube Channel

https://www.youtube.com/@accountinginfluencers

Join the Accounting Influencers community and get invitations to our international speed networking events to build your personal brand and network in the accounting, finance and tech world: https://www.linkedin.com/company/accountinginfluencers

For videos of all podcast interviews and bonus video content: https://bit.ly/AI-youtube

Thanks to our sponsors:

ADVANCETRACK OUTSOURCING. Transform your accounting firm with AdvanceTrack. Our top-tier offshoring solutions free your team from mundane tasks, allowing you to focus on growth and client engagement. Experience seamless scalability and expert support. Visit advancetrack.com and elevate your practice today. https://www.advancetrack.com

ACCOUNTEX. Join us at Accountex London, the pinnacle of fintech innovation, May 15-16, 2024! Discover ground-breaking solutions from 295+ brands and gain invaluable insights at our CPD-accredited sessions. Connect with...

Rob Brown welcomes Stuart Pedley-Smith, Chief Learning Officer at Kaplan Financial, to discuss the evolving landscape of qualifications and their relevance in today's finance and accounting profession. Stuart, with over 25 years of experience in accountancy education, shares insights into the changing roles of finance professionals, emphasizing the need to adapt to technological advancements. The discussion explores the importance of maintaining core principles while incorporating new tools and technologies in qualifications. Stuart also highlights the role of technology in reshaping the profession and the potential for technology-based assessments. Overall, the episode delves into the challenges and opportunities facing finance professionals in a rapidly evolving industry.

Stuart Pedley-Smith, a certified accountant, has dedicated his career to professional education. As Kaplan's Head of Learning, he shapes the company's education strategy, advocates best practices, and fosters a culture of learning. With over two decades of teaching accountancy students, Stuart's insights culminated in his book on examinations. His expertise informs engaging talks, a monthly blog, and podcasts on exam success. Stay tuned for Season 4 of the Kaplan Learn Better Podcast, and explore his insightful blogs:

Kaplan Learn Better Podcast (Season 4 coming soon):

https://kaplan.co.uk/learn-better-podcast

Kaplan Learning Blog (General Kaplan Blog):

https://kaplan-learning.com/blog

Pedley-Smith Blog (Exploring evidence-based learning and exam success):

https://pedley-smith.uk/

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The Accounting Influencers Podcast drops every Monday to accounting professionals, finance specialists, software vendors, tech providers and influencers across 150 countries in the accountancy, CPA and bookkeeping space. To participate in our international virtual speed networking events for the accounting community, go to https://accountinginfluencers.com/events and book your place at the next gathering. Great to build your personal brand and make valuable industry connections.

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You can watch this episode and more on our YouTube Channel

https://www.youtube.com/@accountinginfluencers

Join the Accounting Influencers community and get invitations to our international speed networking events to build your personal brand and network in the accounting, finance and tech world: https://www.linkedin.com/company/accountinginfluencers

For videos of all podcast interviews and bonus video content: https://bit.ly/AI-youtube

Thanks to our sponsors:

ADVANCETRACK OUTSOURCING. Transform your accounting firm with AdvanceTrack. Our top-tier offshoring solutions free your team from mundane tasks, allowing you to focus on growth and client engagement. Experience seamless scalability and expert support. Visit advancetrack.com and elevate your practice today. https://www.advancetrack.com

ACCOUNTEX. Join us at Accountex London, the pinnacle of fintech innovation, May 15-16, 2024! Discover ground-breaking solutions from 295+ brands and gain invaluable insights at our...

Des O'Neil shares his insights on helping accountants and bookkeepers realize their full potential and make a real impact on their clients. He emphasizes the importance of finding joy and passion in one's business and highlights that it's never too late to change direction for better results. Des also discusses the difference between authentic influencers and those who may not provide genuine value. Simplifying business and life comes down to clarity and understanding what you want, setting boundaries, and consistently delivering value to clients.

Des O'Neil, an experienced accountant on a mission to help you rapidly boost your firm's profitability while reducing stress. With a unique blend of technical expertise and a passion for creating sustainable businesses, Des is not just an accountant; he's a transformational force.

In a world filled with constant deadlines and regulatory challenges, Des understands the struggles accountants face, from attracting and retaining the right staff to dealing with less-than-ideal clients. He's been there, and he has the solutions.

With over 15 years of experience and a proven track record, Des has worked with thousands of firms, developing ProfitPro and the Winning Firm Workshop. If you're ready to achieve a more profitable and rewarding accounting business, Des O'Neil is here to guide you.

Learn more at https://theprofitpro.com/ and discover the better way to run your accounting business with Des O'Neil.

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The Accounting Influencers Podcast drops every Monday to accounting professionals, finance specialists, software vendors, tech providers and influencers across 150 countries in the accountancy, CPA and bookkeeping space. To participate in our international virtual speed networking events for the accounting community, go to https://accountinginfluencers.com/events and book your place at the next gathering. Great to build your personal brand and make valuable industry connections.

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You can watch this episode and more on our YouTube Channel

https://www.youtube.com/@accountinginfluencers

Join the Accounting Influencers community and get invitations to our international speed networking events to build your personal brand and network in the accounting, finance and tech world: https://www.linkedin.com/company/accountinginfluencers

For videos of all podcast interviews and bonus video content: https://bit.ly/AI-youtube

Thanks to our sponsors:

ADVANCETRACK OUTSOURCING. Transform your accounting firm with AdvanceTrack. Our top-tier offshoring solutions free your team from mundane tasks, allowing you to focus on growth and client engagement. Experience seamless scalability and expert support. Visit advancetrack.com and elevate your practice today. https://www.advancetrack.com

ACCOUNTEX. Join us at Accountex London, the pinnacle of fintech innovation, May 15-16, 2024! Discover ground-breaking solutions from 295+ brands and gain invaluable insights at our CPD-accredited sessions. Connect with 10,000+ finance professionals. Elevate your practice – attendance is free, plus earn up to 16 CPD points! https://www.accountex.co.uk/london

DEXT. Streamline your accounting practice with Dext! Our cutting-edge tools, Dext Prepare, Commerce, and Precision,...

We have the honor of hosting Sarah Ghosh, the President of CIMA (Chartered Institute of Management Accountants). Sarah provides insights into the dynamic world of management accounting and its relevance in today's business landscape.

With a diverse membership representing various roles and industries, CIMA is at the forefront of shaping the future of finance professionals. Sarah discusses the evolving responsibilities of accountants, from embracing technology and sustainability to promoting inclusion within the profession.

The conversation delves into how technology, including AI and machine learning, is transforming the way accountants work and make decisions. Sarah emphasizes the importance of agility and staying updated with technological advancements.

Sustainability is another key focus, with Sarah highlighting the role of accountants in addressing sustainability challenges and aligning with regulations and frameworks. She discusses the ethical considerations related to data and the profession's responsibility in promoting sustainable practices.

Inclusion is a topic close to Sarah's heart, and she shares her involvement in initiatives like CIMA Women in Leadership, aiming to create a more inclusive accounting profession.

The episode offers a comprehensive look at the evolving roles and responsibilities of accountants, providing valuable insights for both current and aspiring finance professionals. Join us for an engaging conversation on the future of the accounting profession with Sarah Ghosh.

Sarah Ghosh is an accomplished finance and IT professional with a keen interest in the transformative power of technology within the business landscape. With a particular fascination for AI and Quantum technologies, Sarah is dedicated to understanding how these innovations are reshaping industries and accelerating decision-making processes.

Throughout her career, Sarah has garnered extensive experience and expertise, allowing her to work effectively at the C-suite level across various sectors. Her unique blend of financial acumen and IT proficiency positions her as a valuable asset in the rapidly evolving business world.

Sarah's true value lies in her ability to provide insights and practical knowledge during board discussions. In an era marked by economic, geopolitical, and environmental challenges, she brings a wealth of experience to the table, enabling her to inform and influence strategic decisions effectively.

Passionate about the implications of technology on value creation, customer experiences, and social and environmental impacts, Sarah Ghosh is a forward-thinking professional dedicated to driving positive change and innovation in the corporate world.

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The Accounting Influencers Podcast drops every Monday to accounting professionals, finance specialists, software vendors, tech providers and influencers across 150 countries in the accountancy, CPA and bookkeeping space. To participate in our international virtual speed networking events for the accounting community, go to https://accountinginfluencers.com/events and book your place at the next gathering. Great to build your personal brand and make valuable industry connections.

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You can watch this episode and more on our YouTube Channel

https://www.youtube.com/@accountinginfluencers

Join the Accounting Influencers community and get invitations to our international speed networking events to build your personal brand and network in the accounting, finance and tech world:

Rob Brown sits down with Calvin Harris, the CEO of the New York State Society of CPAs. Calvin discusses his role in leading the organization that represents CPAs in New York State and beyond. He shares his perspective on being a CPA and the importance of the credential.

Calvin talks about the challenges and opportunities facing the accounting profession today, emphasizing the need for CPAs to demonstrate their relevance in a changing landscape. He highlights the role of technology, communication, and storytelling in showcasing the value of the accounting profession to younger generations.

The conversation also touches on the impact of the COVID-19 pandemic on the profession and the lessons learned from it. Calvin shares insights into the evolving role of CPAs and the importance of adaptability.

Tune in to gain valuable insights from Calvin Harris on the state of the accounting profession and the path forward for CPAs in a dynamic world.

Calvin Harris Jr., CPA (MD), is the CEO of the New York State Society of CPAs, the oldest state accounting association in the U.S. With 30+ years of executive experience, he's been a CFO, auditor, forensic accountant, consultant, and entrepreneur.

A Morehouse College graduate, Calvin previously served as the SVP & CFO of the National Urban League in NYC and CFO of Baltimore City Community College. He's held leadership roles at organizations like the United Nations Foundation, NeighborWorks America, Legal Services Corporation, and Aeras Global TB Vaccine Foundation. His career began as an auditor at Arthur Andersen.

Calvin, the 24th Chairman of the Board and National President of the National Association of Black Accountants, has a deep passion for the accounting profession, inspired by his mother, a high school bookkeeping teacher. A Maryland native, he now calls Brooklyn, New York, home.

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The Accounting Influencers Podcast drops every Monday to accounting professionals, finance specialists, software vendors, tech providers and influencers across 150 countries in the accountancy, CPA and bookkeeping space. To participate in our international virtual speed networking events for the accounting community, go to https://accountinginfluencers.com/events and book your place at the next gathering. Great to build your personal brand and make valuable industry connections.

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You can watch this episode and more on our YouTube Channel

https://www.youtube.com/@accountinginfluencers

Join the Accounting Influencers community and get invitations to our international speed networking events to build your personal brand and network in the accounting, finance and tech world: https://www.linkedin.com/company/accountinginfluencers

For videos of all podcast interviews and bonus video content: https://bit.ly/AI-youtube

Thanks to our sponsors:

ADVANCETRACK OUTSOURCING. Transform your accounting firm with AdvanceTrack. Our top-tier offshoring solutions free your team from mundane tasks, allowing you to focus on growth and client engagement. Experience seamless scalability and expert support. Visit advancetrack.com and elevate your practice today. https://www.advancetrack.com

ACCOUNTEX. Join us at Accountex London, the pinnacle of fintech innovation, May 15-16, 2024! Discover ground-breaking solutions from 295+ brands and gain invaluable insights at our...

Rob Brown were joined by a true visionary in the world of finance and entrepreneurship, Adam Lean.

Adam Lean's journey from accountant to two-time entrepreneur is nothing short of remarkable. He's built, scaled, and successfully sold two businesses, all while honing his expertise in financial management. Today, he's the driving force behind The CFO Project, a training company that equips financial professionals with the skills to provide outsourced CFO and business advisory services.

Join us as we dive deep into the world of accounting and entrepreneurship with Adam Lean. In this episode, we explore what clients genuinely seek from their accountants and strategies for growing your practice without increasing your workload. We delve into assessing your readiness to provide business advisory services and discuss how to attract new clients through these offerings. Additionally, Adam shares insights on maximizing value by upselling business advisory services to existing clients, effective pricing strategies for these invaluable services, and the critical transition from a time-for-money model to achieving true business ownership.

Adam Lean is a dynamic individual with a background as a former accountant turned successful entrepreneur, having built, scaled, and sold two businesses. However, his true passion lies in teaching and empowering other business owners. Recognizing the importance of financial success and peace-of-mind for entrepreneurs, Adam is dedicated to providing valuable tools and resources to help them make informed decisions, increase profitability, and achieve a sense of security in their endeavors. Through his expertise and experience, he strives to make a positive impact on the lives of business owners, guiding them towards greater prosperity and fulfillment.

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The Accounting Influencers Podcast drops every Monday to accounting professionals, finance specialists, software vendors, tech providers and influencers across 150 countries in the accountancy, CPA and bookkeeping space. To participate in our international virtual speed networking events for the accounting community, go to https://accountinginfluencers.com/events and book your place at the next gathering. Great to build your personal brand and make valuable industry connections.

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You can watch this episode and more on our YouTube Channel

https://www.youtube.com/@accountinginfluencers

Join the Accounting Influencers community and get invitations to our international speed networking events to build your personal brand and network in the accounting, finance and tech world: https://www.linkedin.com/company/accountinginfluencers

For videos of all podcast interviews and bonus video content: https://bit.ly/AI-youtube

Thanks to our sponsors:

ADVANCETRACK OUTSOURCING. Transform your accounting firm with AdvanceTrack. Our top-tier offshoring solutions free your team from mundane tasks, allowing you to focus on growth and client engagement. Experience seamless scalability and expert support. Visit advancetrack.com and elevate your practice today. https://www.advancetrack.com

ACCOUNTEX. Join us at Accountex London, the pinnacle of fintech innovation, May 15-16, 2024! Discover ground-breaking solutions from 295+ brands and gain invaluable insights at our CPD-accredited sessions. Connect with 10,000+ finance professionals. Elevate...

Rob Brown has the the privilege of hosting Richard Francis, the visionary Founder and CEO of Spotlight Reporting. As a global business intelligence software company dedicated to serving accounting firms and CFOs, Spotlight Reporting has been at the forefront of transforming the accounting profession. Richard takes us on a journey through his personal and professional evolution, from his early days in accounting to the pivotal moment when he saw the need for revolutionary reporting, forecasting, and consolidation tools.

Richard's passion for driving change in the accounting landscape shines through as he discusses Spotlight Reporting's mission: to empower accountants and CFOs to provide meaningful, value-added services. He emphasizes the importance of advisory services, a topic often overshadowed by compliance, and shares his vision of accountants as catalysts for profound change in their clients' lives.

The conversation delves into the recent survey conducted by Spotlight Reporting, revealing fascinating insights into accountants' readiness to embrace transformation and the shift towards more advisory-focused services. Richard's intellectually curious nature and commitment to innovation shine through as he explores the evolving role of technology, artificial intelligence, and the changing dynamics of hiring in the accounting profession.

This episode is a must-listen for anyone interested in the future of accounting and the incredible opportunities it offers in a rapidly changing world. Join us as we embark on a journey of discovery, uncovering the exciting prospects that lie ahead for accountants and CFOs alike.

Richard Francis is the visionary founder and CEO behind Spotlight Reporting, a global business intelligence software company catering to the needs of accounting firms and CFOs. Since its inception in 2011, Spotlight Reporting has grown to include over 50 dedicated professionals spread across Australia, the UK, Canada, the US, and New Zealand. Today, it proudly serves as the trusted tool for over 2,000 forward-thinking firms, impacting over 100,000 businesses each month. Notably, Spotlight Reporting has garnered numerous prestigious awards, solidifying its position as a multi-award winner in the industry.

Before his remarkable journey with Spotlight Reporting, Richard served as a General Manager at Xero from 2012 to 2014. His expertise in software development led to the successful acquisition of his own software business in 2012. Prior to venturing into the tech world, Richard began his career as a Chartered Accountant, honing his skills at a prominent firm. He later embarked on a transformative journey to the UK, where he spent four enriching years.

Upon returning to New Zealand in 2001, Richard and his wife, Julie, embarked on an entrepreneurial path, establishing a 'boutique' advisory practice. This endeavor focused on delivering Virtual CFO and strategic services, further enriching Richard's extensive and diversified background in the accounting and software industries.

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The Accounting Influencers Podcast drops every Monday to accounting professionals, finance specialists, software vendors, tech providers and influencers across 150 countries in the accountancy, CPA and bookkeeping space. To participate in our international virtual speed networking events for the accounting community, go to https://accountinginfluencers.com/events and book your place at the next gathering. Great to build your personal brand and make valuable industry connections.

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You can watch this episode and more on our YouTube Channel

https://www.youtube.com/@accountinginfluencers

Join the Accounting Influencers...

Martin Bissett featuring Gordon King from The World of Twist, the conversation delves into the intersection of creativity and accounting in the music industry. Gordon King shares insights into the rise and fall of The World of Twist, a band he co-founded, shedding light on the financial dynamics within the group. As creative professionals navigating the music scene, the band members initially had little business acumen and entrusted their manager with handling finances. Gordon reflects on the naivety and excitement that often accompany young musicians signing major record deals, highlighting the importance of understanding contracts and financial arrangements in the music business. The discussion provides a fascinating glimpse into the challenges faced by creative individuals when dealing with the business side of their careers.

World of Twist was an English indie pop band formed in Sheffield in 1985, experienced various lineup changes throughout history. The band's original lineup featured James Fry (vocals), Andrew Hobson (bass guitar), Gordon King (guitar), Tony Ogden (drums), Rory Conolly (saxophone), Nick Phillips (organ), and Andy Robbins (synthesizer). After disbanding, a new lineup emerged in Manchester in 1986.

While the band gained attention for their live shows and radio sessions, their debut album, "Quality Street" (1991), didn't receive significant critical or commercial success. Despite not touring North America, "Sons of the Stage" succeeded in Toronto and New York. Creative differences and Ogden's decision to stop singing contributed to the band's dissolution in 1992.

QUATERMASS III is the pilot recording of this exciting project that came from the minds behind World of Twist, Earl Brutus, and The Dials. Presented by The Ministry of Light Entertainment in collaboration with the British Experimental Rocket Group and Science Monthly, QUATERMASS III promises to be a unique and groundbreaking musical endeavour.

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The Accounting Influencers Podcast drops every Monday to accounting professionals, finance specialists, software vendors, tech providers and influencers across 150 countries in the accountancy, CPA and bookkeeping space. To participate in our international virtual speed networking events for the accounting community, go to https://accountinginfluencers.com/events and book your place at the next gathering. Great to build your personal brand and make valuable industry connections.

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You can watch this episode and more on our YouTube Channel

https://www.youtube.com/@accountinginfluencers

Join the Accounting Influencers community and get invitations to our international speed networking events to build your personal brand and network in the accounting, finance and tech world: https://www.linkedin.com/company/accountinginfluencers

For videos of all podcast interviews and bonus video content: https://bit.ly/AI-youtube

Thanks to our sponsors:

ADVANCETRACK OUTSOURCING. Transform your accounting firm with AdvanceTrack. Our top-tier offshoring solutions free your team from mundane tasks, allowing you to focus on growth and client engagement. Experience seamless scalability and expert support. Visit advancetrack.com and elevate your practice today. https://www.advancetrack.com

ACCOUNTEX. Join us at Accountex London, the pinnacle of fintech innovation, May 15-16, 2024! Discover...