What does successful growth really look like for today's firms? In this episode, Sarah Krom, CPA, MST, Managing Partner of SKC & Co. CPAs, LLC, explores how firm leaders can scale intentionally without sacrificing culture, people, or purpose.

Sarah shares how SKC approaches growth by focusing on other factors beyond revenue and headcount. From launching new service lines to navigating change through overcommunication, this conversation offers practical insight for any firm or organization looking to grow while protecting what makes their firms thrive.

To find out more about transforming your business model, explore our business model transformation resources at aicpa-cima.com/tybm. You'll also see a link there to all of our previous podcast episodes.

Thanks for listening. It takes just a couple of minutes to share your feedback. You can also contact us directly at podcast@aicpa-cima.com

This is a podcast from AICPA & CIMA, together as the Association of International Certified Professional Accountants. To enjoy more conversations from our global community of accounting and finance professionals, explore our network of free shows here. Your feedback and comments welcomed at podcast@aicpa-cima.com

Lauren Baptiste, founder of Acheloa Wellness, explores how burnout is more than just exhaustion; it's a systemic challenge affecting professionals at every level.

Lauren highlights the new PCPS Burnout Prevention Toolkit, a practical resource designed to help individuals, firms, organizations, and the profession combat burnout before it starts. Lauren shares her personal journey, actionable strategies for creating healthier work cultures, and quick wins you can implement today.

Whether you're a leader looking to support your team or a professional seeking balance, this conversation offers tools to thrive, not just survive.

In this episode, hosts Sarah Dobek, Founder and President of Inovautus Consulting, and Gary Thomson, CPA, Founder and Principal of Thomson Consulting, are joined by Chip Chaon, CEO and Managing Principal of LattaHarris, LLP, and Mark Kovaleski, Managing Partner of MMB+CO, where they explore how evolving governance structures are reshaping partnership agreements within firms.

The conversation also provides insights into the challenges of implementing changes to partnership agreements and how to navigate the transformation. As part of a unique four-part series on governance, this informative discussion aims to offer guidance for those journeying down the path of transforming their partnership agreements. Be sure to check out the PCPS Governance Toolkit – developed through collaboration by the AICPA & CIMA PCPS team, Inovautus Consulting, and Thomson Consulting – which is designed to help firms of all sizes transform their governance strategies.

To find out more about transforming your business model, explore our business model transformation resources at aicpa-cima.com/tybm. You'll also see a link there to all of our previous podcast episodes.

This is a podcast from AICPA & CIMA, together as the Association of International Certified Professional Accountants. To enjoy more conversations from our global community of accounting and finance professionals, explore our network of free shows here. Your feedback and comments welcomed at podcast@aicpa-cima.com

Liz Mason, CPA is a serial-entrepreneur. Her passion for accounting started when she was just seven years old and now has successfully launched four brands in the accounting, tax, and HR space. She shares the story of what got her here and what's next for her plan of #CPAworlddomination.

Learn more about High Rock Accounting at highrock.co.

Information about High Rock's Nucleus program is available at nucleus.highrock.co.

Jeff Wilson II, CPA, PFS, CFE, CGMA, CDFA® started his career at a Big 4 firm and now has his own firm with seven people on staff. He talks about his path to becoming a firm owner, the struggles he overcame and the advice he'd give to himself if he were starting over.

Learn more about Jeff's firm at wiicpas.com.

Christine DeAngelis, CPA is a working mom who owns three businesses. She talks about her journey from marketing student to CPA to CEO, and everything in between.

Christine's businesses: 

• epiphanygroupinc.com
• cultivateconsulting.co
• bamboowellness.isagenix.com

Josh Lance, CPA, CGMA, shares his insights about running a completely virtual practice, covering everything from how he hires the right staff to where the mail gets delivered.

Learn more about Josh's firm at lancecpa.com.

Additional resources:

• PCPS "Remote team building and culture" toolkit at AICPA.org/PCPS
• "It Doesn't Have to Be Crazy at Work" by Jason Fried & David Heinemeier Hansson
• "Remote: Office Not Required" by Jason & David Heinemeier Hansson

When you multitask, you might think you're getting more done. In reality, you spend more time on the jobs than you would if you focused on each separately and completely. Getting in the present and ignoring distractions will help you focus on what you need to do. Working on one activity at a time will make you more productive. This meditation will show you how.

What's happening inside you? Most of us are only aware of what's happening on the surface. Through meditation, you can better connect to your body and mind. The understanding that results from this exploration can inform the experience you create for others, making you more receptive, calm and accepting. Your work and your personal life will both benefit.

Making time for self-care is crucial not only to your well-being, but also for how you interact with those around you. This meditation helps you find mental peace, bringing you greater focus in your day.

Your internal wellness can affect the people around you, as well as how you feel about them. In this meditation, called a "loving kindness" meditation, you'll get better centered and able to show up for your day with the energy you want.

Trying to do too much at once can sap your energy. If you're multitasking or not allowing yourself enough of a break between tasks, you could be robbing yourself of much-needed focus. This meditation helps you regain focus and improve your productivity.

Understand mindfulness and what it means in the context of a busy time at work. Reducing your stress, increasing your awareness without judgement and your presence in the moment are the goals of this guided meditation. The result? You can enjoy a productive day while also being aware of and mastering your emotions.

In this episode, hosts Sarah Dobek, Founder and President of Inovautus Consulting, and Gary Thomson, CPA, Founder and Principal of Thomson Consulting, are joined by Eric Majchrzak, CEO/Principal for BeachFleischman, to dive into a pivotal shift in the accounting profession—the rise of non-CPA professionals stepping into leadership roles in public accounting firms.

Learn more about how firms are embracing non-CPA leadership to drive transformation as they strive for growth and innovation. Part of a special four-part series highlighting governance, this engaging discussion offers insights into the future of accounting leadership. Be sure to check out the PCPS Governance Toolkit – developed through collaboration by the AICPA & CIMA PCPS team, Inovautus Consulting, and Thomson Consulting – which is designed to help firms of all sizes transform their governance strategies.

To find out more about transforming your business model, explore our business model transformation resources at aicpa-cima.com/tybm. You'll also see a link there to all of our previous podcast episodes.

 This is a podcast from AICPA & CIMA, together as the Association of International Certified Professional Accountants. To enjoy more conversations from our global community of accounting and finance professionals, explore our network of free shows here. Your feedback and comments welcomed at podcast@aicpa-cima.com

Matthew Wilson, CPA, CGMA and Maya Ivanova, CPA, CGMA of Wilson Ivanova CPAs share advice on how to stay up-to-speed on accounting standards changes that are effective or will soon be effective. 

British management accountant, Barry Dovey, FCMA, CGMA, shares how offering a menu of services can help firms reduce hours and add value for their clients.

Carl Peterson, CPA, CGMA, of the AICPA and Matt Towers of CPA.com discuss the results of the 2019 PCPS CPA Firm Top Issues Survey. Key concerns for small firms include finding qualified staff, keeping up with tax law changes and managing privacy and security risks.

Bernie Ackerman, CPA/PFS, CGMA, and his son, Jason Ackerman, CPA, CGMA, talk about how they've abandoned the timesheet and successfully implemented value pricing in their firm.

Julie Killian, CPA, CGMA of Clayton McKervey talks with Bob Durak, CPA, CGMA, of the AICPA about her firm's experience transitioning clients to using the Financial Reporting Framework for Small- and Medium-Sized Entities (FRF for SMEs).

Learn more at AICPA.org/frf-smes

Dominique Molina, CPA, talks with Carl Peterson, CPA, CGMA, of the AICPA about how shifting to a value pricing model helped her tax firm increase the value of its services, reduce hours and strengthen its bottom line.

Ever wonder how your firm measures up? Curious about average fees in your area or around the country? Maybe you'd like to learn what average compensation looks like? Carl Peterson, CPA, CGMA, Vice President of Small Firm Interests and Joel Olbricht, CPA, CGMA, Chair of the PCPS Executive Committee discuss the AICPA National MAP survey, and how its information can help you answer these and many other questions.

Learn more about the Map Survey at AICPA.org/mapsurvey.

Carl Mayes, CPA, talks with Lindsay Patterson, both of the AICPA, about the role of risk assessment in audit quality. They share advice for small firms and point out helpful resources.

A small, Midwestern firm is implementing some forward-thinking strategies to stay ahead of the curve. Amber Goering, CPA, CGMA, of Goering and Granatino in Overland Park, Kansas, talks with Carl Peterson, CPA, CGMA, of the AICPA, about her firm's recent growth and plans for the future. 

Dov Zaidman, CPA/CITP, CGMA, Managing Partner of ZBS Group in Plainview, New York, talks with Carl Peterson, CPA, CGMA, of the AICPA, about how his firm has successfully merged and acquired sole practitioners nearing retirement. Dov shares insight on leading a growing practice and integrating offices in two locations.

In this episode, hosts Sarah Dobek, Founder and President of Inovautus Consulting, and Gary Thomson, CPA, Founder and Principal of Thomson Consulting, are joined by Chris Sullivan, CPA, Managing Partner of VSH CPAs, and Amber Goering, CPA, Owner of Goering & Granatino (GG Advisors) to discuss the implementation of the Entrepreneurial Operating System (EOS) in their respective firms. Chris and Amber share their experiences and challenges faced during the implementation, such as the need for a strategic plan and the necessary time commitment. 

Chris and Amber also share insights on the benefits of EOS, including how firms can use it for quick decision-making and creating a culture of accountability. Part of a special four-part series highlighting governance, this episode provides the roadmap for a journey of growth and improvement. Be sure to check out the PCPS Governance Toolkit – developed through collaboration by the AICPA & CIMA PCPS team, Inovautus Consulting, and Thomson Consulting – which is designed to help firms of all sizes transform their governance strategies.

To find out more about transforming your business model, explore our business model transformation resources at aicpa-cima.com/tybm. You'll also see a link there to all of our previous podcast episodes.

This is a podcast from AICPA & CIMA, together as the Association of International Certified Professional Accountants. To enjoy more conversations from our global community of accounting and finance professionals, explore our network of free shows here. Your feedback and comments welcomed at podcast@aicpa-cima.com

How did Chris Farmand, CPA, CITP, become the CPA of choice to so many craft breweries across the country? Lindsey Curley of the AICPA talks to Chris, CEO of Small Batch Standard and Managing Shareholder of Chris Farmand + Company in Jacksonville, Florida, about how he built up his CPA practice among such a niche industry.

Johanna Sweaney Salt, CPA, CGMA, partner at Gray, Salt & Associates LLP in Claremont, Calif., talks with Lisa Simpson, CPA, CGMA, of the AICPA about how supporting a strong firm culture is one of the keys to a successful practice. Johanna believes it's important to listen to and trust not only your partners, but your staff, too. Empowering your associates to offer and initiate innovative ideas can be very rewarding. Johanna's small firm also taps into the many local colleges to seek seasonal help for busy season. Listen to these topics and more.

Gabby Luoma, CPA, owner of GMLCPA in Tucson, Ariz., talks with Heather O'Connor of the AICPA about her philosophy on building a strong culture for her virtual firm.

The AICPA's Small Firm Philosophy shares big ideas about small firms. You'll hear from leaders of small accounting firms about their philosophies on running a successful practice in today's rapidly changing environment.

Content Note: This episode includes discussions about mental health, including depression, anxiety, and suicide. Please take care while listening.

In this powerful episode, Randy Crabtree, Co-Founder and Partner at Tri-Merit, shares his personal story of navigating mental health challenges and how that experience shaped his leadership approach and advocacy within the profession.

Randy shares what it means to lead with vulnerability and foster a people-first culture. He offers heartfelt advice, simple tips to manage burnout, and encouragement to those quietly facing their own struggles.

Tune in for an honest, inspiring conversation on vulnerability, resilience, leadership, and transforming workplace culture.

To find out more about transforming your business model, explore our business model transformation resources at aicpa-cima.com/tybm. You'll also see a link there to all of our previous podcast episodes.

This is a podcast from AICPA & CIMA, together as the Association of International Certified Professional Accountants. To enjoy more conversations from our global community of accounting and finance professionals, explore our network of free shows here. Your feedback and comments welcomed at podcast@aicpa-cima.com

What defines a thriving business development culture in public accounting? Josh Axelrod, Chief Operating Officer of Aldrich CPAs + Advisors, shares the elements of a successful business development environment.

Learn how intentional efforts pave the way for strategic action and how to overcome challenges you may face. Packed with actionable insights and real-world advice, you'll obtain strategies on how to ensure your firm not only grows but thrives in a rapidly changing profession.

To find out more about transforming your business model, explore our business model transformation resources at aicpa-cima.com/tybm. You'll also see a link there to all of our previous podcast episodes.

This is a podcast from AICPA & CIMA, together as the Association of International Certified Professional Accountants. To enjoy more conversations from our global community of accounting and finance professionals, explore our network of free shows here. Your feedback and comments welcomed at podcast@aicpa-cima.com

Gary Thomson, CPA, Founder and Principal of Thomson Consulting, and Sarah Johnson Dobek, Founder and President of Inovautus Consulting, explore how strong governance can drive successful business model transformation.

They share practical insights on how firms can adopt effective governance frameworks to guide their transformation strategies, ensuring sustainable growth and adaptability. You'll learn key approaches to structuring governance that can help your firm navigate change for new opportunities.

To find out more about transforming your business model, explore our business model transformation resources at aicpa-cima.com/tybm. You'll also see a link there to all of our previous podcast episodes.

This is a podcast from AICPA & CIMA, together as the Association of International Certified Professional Accountants. To enjoy more conversations from our global community of accounting and finance professionals, explore our network of free shows here. Your feedback and comments welcomed at podcast@aicpa-cima.com

Private equity-backed firms are reshaping the professional services landscape. In this episode, Tim Brackney, CEO of Springline Advisory, and Josh Beck, Managing Partner at MarksNelson Advisory LLC, share insights into their collaboration and strategic approaches to firm growth and transformation.

Discover how Springline's model helps firms unlock value, enhance operations and scale successfully. From leadership alignment to strengthening people-first cultures, this conversation reveals how firms can leverage private equity to evolve their business model while staying true to their core values.

To find out more about transforming your business model, explore our business model transformation resources at aicpa-cima.com/tybm. You'll also see a link there to all of our previous podcast episodes.

This is a podcast from AICPA & CIMA, together as the Association of International Certified Professional Accountants. To enjoy more conversations from our global community of accounting and finance professionals, explore our network of free shows here. Your feedback and comments welcomed at podcast@aicpa-cima.com

Starting your own firm can be tough, but finding the right clients makes all the difference. In this episode, Yuri Kapilovich, CPA, a managing partner of Kapilovich & Associates shares his ideas about the importance of choosing quality clients and building strong relationships, rather than just focusing on quantity,

He also discusses how to balance work, family and personal goals. If you're thinking about starting your own firm, this episode has helpful tips to guide you.

For more information on starting your own firm, explore the Starting Your CPA Practice - Planning Checklist.

To find out more about transforming your business model, explore our business model transformation resources at aicpa-cima.com/tybm. You'll also see a link there to all of our previous podcast episodes.

This is a podcast from AICPA & CIMA, together as the Association of International Certified Professional Accountants. To enjoy more conversations from our global community of accounting and finance professionals, explore our network of free shows here. Your feedback and comments welcomed at podcast@aicpa-cima.com

In this episode with Dan O'Hare, CPA, CGMA, Principal at Glenn Burdette, we explore why CPA firms might choose to implement an Employee Stock Ownership Plan (ESOP).

With Dan's insights and expertise, we explore how ESOPs can facilitate smooth succession planning, boost employee retention and engagement and offer significant tax benefits. Additionally, we discuss how this alternative practice structure can improve performance and make the firm more attractive to potential hires. This conversation will help you understand the potential power of ESOPs in reshaping your firm's future.  

To find out more about transforming your business model, explore our business model transformation resources at aicpa-cima.com/tybm. You'll also see a link there to all of our previous podcast episodes. 

This is a podcast from AICPA & CIMA, together as the Association of International Certified Professional Accountants. To enjoy more conversations from our global community of accounting and finance professionals, explore our network of free shows here. Your feedback and comments welcomed at podcast@aicpa-cima.com

Are you curious about how to empower your employees and fuel your firm's growth? Listen as we explore employee stock ownership plans (ESOPs) with Mike Bannon, vice president at CSG Partners. You'll discover how this powerful tool can help your firm achieve its long-term goals and implementation plans, from planning and financing to valuation and ownership transition.

This episode offers insights into the benefits of leveraged ESOPs, which include not only tax advantages but also the ability to boost employee engagement and create lasting value for accounting firms. Discover why more firms are turning to this innovative ownership model and how it can shape the future of your business. Tune in and unlock the potential of shared ownership.

To find out more about transforming your business model, explore our business model transformation resources at aicpa-cima.com/tybm. You'll also see a link there to all of our previous podcast episodes. 

This is a podcast from AICPA & CIMA, together as the Association of International Certified Professional Accountants. To enjoy more conversations from our global community of accounting and finance professionals, explore our network of free shows here. Your feedback and comments welcomed at podcast@aicpa-cima.com

We're back with another special compilation of conversations offering insights relevant for preparing for busy season. Jaimie Boyd from the AICPA® Firm Services team shares highlights from conversations we've had over the past year with practitioners who are applying the fundamental concepts of the Transforming Your Business Model initiative to their day-to-day operations.

From scheduling systems that help tame tax season to the power of virtual teams and intentional client selection, these stories offer practical insights and motivation for firms preparing for busy season and anyone seeking to modernize their practice without sacrificing well-being. You don't want to miss this episode as you prepare for busy season.

For the full episodes and resources, check out the following:

• TfP 012. Creating Balance Without Losing Business
• TfP 014. Building Balance in a Virtual Firm
• TfP 010. Leading with Authenticity and Vulnerability
• TfP 006. Starting your own firm and growing the right client base
• TfP 013. When Purpose Meets Innovation
• TfP 011. The Influence of Coaching on Firm Growth
• AICPA Town Hall: DC updates, hiring insights and better tax season planning
• PCPS Right-Sizing Your Client Base Toolkit
• PCPS Outsourcing for CPA Firms Toolkit
• PCPS Future Talent Trend Toolkit

To find out more about transforming your business model, explore our business model transformation resources at aicpa-cima.com/tybm. You'll also see a link there to all of our previous podcast episodes.

Thanks for listening. It takes just a couple of minutes to share your feedback. You can also contact us directly at podcast@aicpa-cima.com

This is a podcast from AICPA & CIMA, together as the Association of International Certified Professional Accountants. To enjoy more conversations from our global community of accounting and finance professionals, explore our network of free shows here. Your feedback and comments welcomed at podcast@aicpa-cima.com

Erin Hartman from the AICPA & CIMA PCPS section introduces a special compilation of conversations on the evolution of accounting firms and the modernization of accounting practices through the "Transforming Your Business Model" initiative. It contains valuable insights and motivation for accounting professionals looking to innovate and create sustainable business models while maintaining a healthy work-life balance.

In these condensed exerpts from previous podcasts, the conversation features insights from Chet Buchman, managing partner of Swindell, Jansen Hawk and Loyd, and Sandy Johns, a small firm owner based in Atlanta. Chet shares his firm's journey towards reducing work hours to 45 hours per week, highlighting the challenges and successes along the way. He emphasizes the importance of maintaining a balance between reducing hours, increasing profitability, and having more fun at work. Sandy discusses her firm's transition to a fully remote team and their focus on subscription-based client accounting services, sharing her experience of eliminating one-off tax returns to reduce stress and improve work-life balance.

Both practitioners highlight the importance of understanding what you want for yourself and your firm, committing to a common vision, and being willing to make changes and learn from mistakes. They also stress the value of networking and seeking support from peers and professional groups. 

For the full episodes from both Chet Buchman and Sandy Johns and other articles and resources regarding right-sizing and hours reduction, check out the following resources:

• PCPS Right-Sizing Your Client Base Toolkit,
• A Revolution in 'right-sizing' a client base,  
• Why and how: right-sizing client base and revenue modeling,  
• Business model transformation - advisory and hours,  
• Is right-sizing the right move for your firm?, and
• Right-sizing your firm: A commitment to clients and staff.

To find out more about transforming your business model, explore our business model transformation resources at aicpa-cima.com/tybm. You'll also see a link there to all of our previous podcast episodes.

 This is a podcast from AICPA & CIMA, together as the Association of International Certified Professional Accountants. To enjoy more conversations from our global community of accounting and finance professionals, explore our network of free shows here. Your feedback and comments welcomed at podcast@aicpa-cima.com

How are forward-thinking firms adapting to the profession's changing landscape? We're joined by Abbey Bemis and Mike Miller from Payne Nickles & Company to hear their transformative insights.

They investigate how firms adapt to shifts in tax seasons and the broader profession because of new technology and AI. Abbey and Mike also tackle the talent shortage challenge, sharing strategies for attracting top talent and positioning their firm as a desirable workplace. 

From discussions on the evolving role of the COO and the importance of effectively communicating value to clients, tune in for a fresh take on how to navigate changes in the profession and leverage innovation for firm growth. 

To find out more about transforming your business model, explore our business model transformation resources at aicpa-cima.com/tybm. You'll also see a link there to all of our previous podcast episodes. 

This is a podcast from AICPA & CIMA, together as the Association of International Certified Professional Accountants. To enjoy more conversations from our global community of accounting and finance professionals, explore our network of free shows here. Your feedback and comments are welcome via email to podcast@aicpa-cima.com

Jeff Wald, CEO of Pinion, shares his insights and expertise on the importance of corporate governance. He uncovers strategies for managing major firm transformations, securing stakeholder buy-in and crafting transparent strategic plans.

Jeff also highlights the importance of building strong relationships at the board level, humanizing business disagreements and empowering your firm to make effective business decisions. Tune in to learn how to enhance your firm's governance practices and drive impactful business model transformations.

To find out more about transforming your business model, explore our business model transformation resources at aicpa-cima.com/tybm. You'll also see a link there to all of our previous podcast episodes. 

This is a podcast from AICPA & CIMA, together as the Association of International Certified Professional Accountants. To enjoy more conversations from our global community of accounting and finance professionals, explore our network of free shows here. Your feedback and comments welcomed at podcast@aicpa-cima.com

The look and feel of your podcast is about to evolve. We're excited to share that the Small Firms Philosophy podcast is becoming "Transforming, tales of Business Evolution". New episodes start later in November 2024.

In this podcast episode, we explore with Jonyce Bullock, CEO of Squire, how evolving governance structures can revolutionize your business model. Jonyce shares her journey through governance challenges, emphasizing the value of external support and diverse perspectives in navigating complex decisions.

You'll discover strategies for enhancing decision-making, implementing changes effectively and creating alignment within your firm. If you want to address your firm's unique needs, this can't-miss episode will show you how to articulate the "why" behind governance changes and choose the right model to foster agility.

For more guidance on aligning your client base with your firm's goals, check out the "PCPS Right-Sizing Your Client Base Toolkit" and other business model transformation resources.

Are you facing a talent shortage? Offshoring may be the answer. Our guest Laurence Whittam of Impact Global Solutions discusses tapping into global talent pools to boost your firm's capabilities.

From selecting the right offshoring model to building successful remote teams, Laurence shares practical advice for small firms. Discover various offshoring models, practical implementation steps, process efficiencies, strategies for driving client growth and more.

Discover how to transform your business with the PCPS Outsourcing Toolkit for CPA Firms. 

Connect with our guest Laurence Whittam via LinkedIn.

This is a podcast from AICPA & CIMA, together as the Association of International Certified Professional Accountants. To enjoy more conversations from our global community of accounting and finance professionals, explore our network of free shows here. Your feedback and comments welcomed at podcast@aicpa-cima.com

In this episode of the Small Firm Philosophy podcast, Ingrid Goldbloom-Bloch, Director of Career Development and Engagement at AAFCPAs, talks with PCPS manager Erin Hartman to share how her firm is making waves and doing things differently in the profession. When Ingrid joined AAFCPA, she was tasked with elevating the people and culture pillars of the firms strategic plan. Ingrid's day to day focus is to uncover challenges that get in the way of teams feeling happy, engaged, and productive at work. It is this work, and how it transformed AAFCPAs business model, that Ingrid and Erin discuss in detail.

SFP is produced by AICPA & CIMA's firm services team, aka the Private Companies Practice Section (PCPS). This episode is part of an ongoing series on accounting firm business model transformation that PCPS is leading for AICPA & CIMA.

For more on the series, check out the Transforming Your Business Model landing page. 

Accounting firms planning for future success may want to rethink their approach to new opportunities. In this episode of the Small Firm Philosophy podcast, Elizabeth Hale, founder and CEO of eeCPA, shares with PCPS manager Erin Hartman how her firm is revolutionizing the traditional CPA model by putting people first and driving client success.

SFP is produced by AICPA & CIMA's firm services team, aka the Private Companies Practice Section (PCPS). This episode is part of an ongoing series on accounting firm business model transformation that PCPS is leading for AICPA & CIMA.

For more on the series, check out the Transforming Your Business Model landing page. 

This episode of the Small Firm Philosophy podcast features Steve McDonald, CPA, managing partner at Abdo, sharing tips about how he integrated cutting edge data and government consulting services with new technologies to revolutionize his firm's client services. 

SFP is produced by AICPA & CIMA's firm services team, aka the Private Companies Practice Section (PCPS). Lisa Simpson, CPA, CGMA, vice president of Firm Services for AICPA & CIMA, conducted the interview, which is part of an ongoing series on accounting firm business model transformation that PCPS is leading for AICPA & CIMA. 

For more on the series, check out the Transforming Your Business Model landing page. 

This episode of the Small Firm Philosophy podcast unveils a pair of powerful toolkits designed to help accounting firms reshape and optimize their business. PCPS manager Erin Hartman, CPA, and Carrie Steffen, the president of growth consulting firm The Whetstone Group, introduce the Revenue Modeling and the Right Sizing Your Client Base toolkits, which are exclusive to PCPS members: 

SFP is produced by AICPA & CIMA's firm services team, aka the Private Companies Practice Section (PCPS). This episode is part of an ongoing series on accounting firm business model transformation that PCPS is leading for AICPA & CIMA.

For more on the series, check out the Transforming Your Business Model landing page. 

Ready to turn data into your firm's competitive edge? This episode reveals how firm leaders are leveraging the National Management of an Accounting Practice (MAP) Survey, from the AICPA Private Companies Practice Section (PCPS) and CPA.com, to drive smarter decision-making and stay ahead in a rapidly evolving profession.

Shayna Chapman, CPA.CITP, CGMA, CEO, Founder of Shaynaco LLC, and Brent Forbush, Managing Partner of Forbush & Associates, share practical insights on how to best use benchmarking data from the MAP Survey. The conversation highlights the importance of technology investment, especially AI, and the value of segmenting survey data for actionable comparisons.

They share the key metrics that have helped their firms, encouraging others not to be overwhelmed by the breadth of available data. Lastly, the episode offers a forward-looking discussion on trends shaping the profession and insight into how participation in the MAP Survey can be a catalyst for transformation.

The 2025 MAP Survey results and executive summary are now available, offering actionable data and practical takeaways for firms of all sizes. Download today!

To find out more about transforming your business model, explore our business model transformation resources at aicpa-cima.com/tybm. You'll also see a link there to all of our previous podcast episodes.

This is a podcast from AICPA & CIMA, together as the Association of International Certified Professional Accountants. To enjoy more conversations from our global community of accounting and finance professionals, explore our network of free shows here. Your feedback and comments welcomed at podcast@aicpa-cima.com

From engaging high schoolers to partnering with community influencers, discover how Grossman Yanak & Ford cultivates future accountants.

This episode of the Small Firm Philosophy podcast features a discussion with GYF's Colleen Febbraro about the firm's freshman forum program, the importance of promoting the accounting profession, changing stereotypes, and more.

SFP is produced by AICPA & CIMA's firm services team, aka the Private Companies Practice Section (PCPS). PCPS manager Erin Hartman, CPA, conducted the interview, which is part of an ongoing series on accounting firm business model transformation that PCPS is leading for AICPA & CIMA. 

For more on the series, check out the Transforming Your Business Model landing page. 

This episode of the Small Firm Philosophy podcast features an interview with David Wurtzbacher and Erin Stahmer of Ascend, a platform firm that is employing unique strategies in its business model. Join us to discuss people strategy, offshoring tips, and how to own the value of firm services.

SFP is produced by AICPA & CIMA's firm services team, aka the Private Companies Practice Section (PCPS). PCPS manager Erin Hartman, CPA, conducted the interview, which is part of an ongoing series on accounting firm business model transformation that PCPS is leading for AICPA & CIMA. 

For more on the series, check out the Transforming Your Business Model landing page.