Earmark Podcast | Earn Free Accounting CPE (Blake Oliver, CPA)

Audit is at a crossroads. Commoditization and compliance mentalities have diminished its value. Now, auditors face an existential crisis. How can assurance stay relevant? Join Alan Anderson and Blake Oliver as they tackle pressing questions on audit's failure to innovate and chart a new direction focused on value-added assurance. You’ll get a dynamic diagnosis of threats plus practical ideas to transform the profession before external forces make change urgent. Discover what’s at stake if audit no longer matters and how leadership today can write a better tomorrow.

(This episode originally aired on February 28, 2024 on Earmark Webinars+)

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• (00:00) - EAP 66
• (01:57) - The Crossroads of Auditing: Challenges and Innovations
• (03:21) - Embracing Technology: The Future of Efficient Auditing
• (06:26) - Redefining the Audit Process: Closing the Expectation Gap
• (15:24) - Understanding Business Through Audits: The Value of Insight
• (27:38) - The Commoditization of Audits: A Call for Change
• (31:41) - Exploring the Flexibility in Auditing Standards
• (32:19) - The Shift Towards a More Rules-Based Approach
• (32:55) - The Impact of Standardized Methodologies on Auditing
• (33:48) - Revitalizing Auditing: Injecting Fun and Quality
• (36:16) - Addressing the Pipeline Issue: Making Auditing Appealing
• (41:04) - The Importance of Planning in Auditing
• (46:19) - Challenging the Billable Hours Model
• (50:53) - Leveraging Technology to Transform Auditing
• (52:38) - Concluding Remarks and Resources

Download the Earmark CPE App
 
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Connect with Our Guest, Alan Anderson

Website: https://www.accountabilityplus.com/
LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/alan-anderson-0ab74227/

Connect with Blake Oliver, CPA

LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/blaketoliver
Twitter: https://twitter.com/blaketoliver/

In this episode, Blake and Ron Baker discuss the subscription economy. They delve into the origins of the terminology and how CPAs and accountants can provide more value to their clients by prioritizing relationships over services. This is a must-listen for anyone interested in the subscription industry, which is projected to surpass $1 trillion by 2025.

Many thanks to our sponsor, Anchor!
To learn more about Anchor, visit https://earmarkcpe.promo/anchor

Download the Earmark CPE App
 
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Chapters

• (00:00) - Preview: A firm can't be everything to everyone
• (01:16) - Earn Free CPE
• (01:33) - Welcome Ron Baker to the show
• (03:11) - What does "subscription economy" mean?
• (04:33) - What does the subscription model look like for accounting firms?
• (13:10) - If I'm not billing hourly, how do I make sure that my team doesn't get completely overwhelmed?
• (16:41) - Why there is a shortage on accountants?
• (26:39) - Power of different pricing models
• (32:48) - Why don't accountants charge based on how many assets they manage?
• (42:37) - What CPA firms do to impact people's lives
• (45:28) - How accountants can approach thier clients in a different way
• (51:21) - Amazon never would have happened if Jeff Bezos thought like an accounting firm
• (57:24) - Accounting firms want to change but don't
• (01:04:47) - What does the future of accounting look like?
• (01:06:32) - How to contact Ron Baker

Connect with Our Guest, Ron Baker

LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/ronbaker1/
Twitter: https://twitter.com/ronaldbaker

Learn more about Verasage

Website: http://verasage.com

Get Ron's book

"Time's Up!: The Subscription Business Model for Professional Firms": https://amzn.to/3y7Gfxb

Connect with Blake Oliver, CPA

LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/blaketoliver
Twitter: https://twitter.com/blaketoliver/

Join Ryan Spohn, CFO of Sikich, and host Blake Oliver to explore how modern CPA firms are revolutionizing the industry by abandoning the traditional partnership model. Discover innovative strategies for attracting and retaining top talent, including Sikich's alternative practice structure and novel performance metrics. Learn how firms shift from "total hours worked" to holistic evaluations of effectiveness, client satisfaction, and quality. We'll also discuss service diversification, internal mobility, and technology investments. Plus, get insights on Sikich's recent $250M Bain Capital investment. Don't miss this opportunity to understand the future of accounting firms!

(Originally recorded on September 26, 2024, on Earmark Webinars+)

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• (00:39) - Meet Ryan Spohn, CFO of Sikich
• (01:46) - Sikich's Alternative Practice Structure
• (02:58) - Private Equity Investment from Bain Capital
• (03:57) - Strategies for Attracting and Retaining Top Talent
• (08:46) - Employee Wellness and Work-Life Integration
• (11:18) - Innovative Billing and Client Engagement
• (21:20) - Modernizing ERP and Technology Stack
• (27:08) - Ryan Non-Traditional Background
• (29:28) - The Importance of Understanding the Work
• (30:39) - Expertise and Team Composition
• (31:02) - Transition to Public Accounting
• (32:34) - Equity and Compensation Challenges
• (34:00) - Innovative Equity Solutions at Sikich
• (37:17) - Reinvesting in the Firm
• (46:07) - Internal Mobility at Sikich
• (48:40) - The Future of Accounting with AI
• (54:41) - Conclusion and Final Thoughts

Download the Earmark CPE App
 
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Connect with Our Guest, Ryan Spohn

LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/ryan-spohn-9b21431/

Connect with Blake Oliver, CPA

LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/blaketoliver
Twitter: https://twitter.com/blaketoliver/

Join leaders from the Illinois, New York, California, Texas, Florida, and Pennsylvania state CPA societies as they explore recent and proposed CPA licensure changes. Discover the latest state-by-state updates, timelines, and resources you need to stay on track. We address the 150-hour rule, potential alternative pathways, and practical mobility and reciprocity concerns. Whether you’re a student or a candidate, gain real-world guidance to confidently navigate your journey toward the CPA license.

(Originally recorded on March 4, 2025, on Earmark Webinars+)

Chapters

• (00:00) - Introduction and Earning CPE Credit
• (00:17) - Welcome and Overview of CPA Licensure Discussion
• (00:41) - The Talent Shortage in Accounting
• (01:04) - State Actions on CPA Licensure
• (01:26) - Introduction of Guest Speakers
• (01:59) - Overview of Changing Licensure Pathways
• (03:14) - Detailed Discussion on New Pathways
• (05:17) - State-Specific Updates on Legislation
• (17:57) - Addressing Common Concerns and Misconceptions
• (26:10) - Flexibility in Accounting Education
• (26:41) - Second Career Opportunities in Accounting
• (27:15) - Adapting to Future CPA Skills
• (27:53) - Challenges in Implementing Changes
• (28:36) - State-Based Licensing Complexities
• (32:21) - Efforts to Address Talent Shortage
• (38:14) - Unintended Consequences of Deregulation
• (44:10) - The Importance of State Coordination
• (46:42) - Future of the CPA Profession
• (49:02) - Improving Working Conditions in Accounting
• (56:11) - Next Steps for Aspiring CPAs
• (57:43) - Conclusion and CPE Credit Information

Sign up to get free CPE for listening to this podcast

https://earmarkcpe.com
https://earmark.app/

Download the Earmark CPE App
 
Apple: https://apps.apple.com/us/app/earmark-cpe/id1562599728

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Connect with Our Guests

Geoffrey Brown - https://www.linkedin.com/in/geoffrey-brown-cae-9039484
Jen Cryder - https://www.linkedin.com/in/jencryder
Denise Froemming - https://www.linkedin.com/in/denise-leduc-froemming-
Calvin Harris Jr. - https://www.linkedin.com/in/calvinhjr
Jodi Ann LaFreniere Ray - https://www.linkedin.com/in/jodiannlafreniereray
Shelly Weir - https://www.linkedin.com/in/shellysiceloff

Connect with Blake Oliver, CPA

LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/blaketoliver
Twitter: https://twitter.com/blaketoliver/

Think the pathway to owning an accounting firm is linear? Think again.

In this episode, Blake has a fascinating conversation with Scott “OKR” Scarano, an accounting firm owner with an unconventional background.

Before becoming a successful firm owner, Scott started dealing drugs, got kicked out of UNC, and ended up with a felony conviction. But with persistence and grit, Scott cleaned up his act, got back on track with his accounting degree, and hustled his way up to leading an accounting practice approaching $2 million in annual revenue.

Scott gives an honest account of his journey—the highs, the lows, and the lessons learned along the way. He talks about the mistakes he made scaling his firm and the tools and systems he implemented to get “out of the work” and create more freedom in his life.

These days Scott is pursuing his creative passions, like rapping as "OKR," while his firm runs smoothly in the background.

His story offers inspiration that firm ownership isn't one-size-fits-all and that with the right mindset and support, unlikely entrepreneurs can thrive in accounting.

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• (00:46) - Blake's first impressions of Scott
• (07:14) - The definition of a successful firm
• (11:28) - Scott works an hour a week on his firm
• (12:09) - The bottom line: What Scott takes home
• (13:32) - Are you planning to grow the firm?
• (15:33) - Scott felt guilty about not doing the work
• (16:55) - How Scott started his firm
• (21:34) - Learning from mistakes
• (23:29) - Scott's felony charge and what it taught him about business
• (26:02) - The similarities between pricing drugs and accounting services
• (32:09) - What did you do after you bought the firm?
• (35:55) - Getting stuck at $1.2 million revenue
• (36:40) - How EOS changed things
• (38:25) - What is Padgett?
• (39:24) - Back to EOS
• (44:48) - Joining XPAC, the Xero Partner Advisory Council
• (48:27) - Stuck in Mexico during COVID caused a mindset shift
• (51:16) - Cal Newport and digital minimalism
• (56:05) - What Scott is working on next
• (01:01:37) - Where to reach Scott and how to listen to Accounting High
• (01:04:01) - Where do you want to see the accounting profession go?

Download the Earmark CPE App
 
Apple: https://apps.apple.com/us/app/earmark-cpe/id1562599728

Android: https://play.google.com/store/apps/details?id=com.earmarkcpe.app

Connect with Our Guest, Scott Scarano
Website: https://www.accountinghigh.com/
LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/scottscarano/
Twitter: https://twitter.com/scottscarano

Learn more about Scott's firm, Padgett NC

Website: https://raleigh.padgettadvisors.com/index.php

Connect with Blake Oliver, CPA

LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/blaketoliver
Twitter: https://twitter.com/blaketoliver/

Sign up to get free CPE for listening to this podcast:
https://earmarkcpe.com/

Connect with Jeff Thomson, President and CEO @ IMA:
https://www.linkedin.com/in/jeffthomsonima/

Learn more about the Institute of Management Accountants:
https://www.imanet.org/

Connect with Blake Oliver, CPA
Linkedin: https://www.linkedin.com/in/blaketoliver
Twitter: https://twitter.com/blaketoliver/

(Originally recorded on February 15, 2024 on Earmark Webinars+)

Hector and Blake recount a brief history of QuickBooks Desktop vs QuickBooks Online through the end of 2023, the state of Intuit’s current offers and posturing in the market, and where they think QuickBooks is moving into for 2024 and beyond.

Chapters

• (01:11) - Hector's Journey: From Tax Practice to Tech Innovator
• (03:16) - A Deep Dive into QuickBooks' Evolution
• (07:12) - The Shift to QuickBooks Online and Its Ecosystem
• (11:41) - Predicting the Future: QuickBooks Desktop's Demise
• (12:08) - QuickBooks Online: Aiming for Total Workflow Control
• (14:03) - The Role of AI in Shaping QuickBooks' Future
• (16:08) - Intuit's Strategy: Moving Beyond Desktop Versions
• (25:21) - The Controversy Around QuickBooks Live Bookkeeping and Tax Services
• (30:15) - The Impact of QuickBooks on Accounting Professionals
• (31:16) - QuickBooks' Strategy for Tax Services
• (33:07) - The Evolution of QuickBooks Live and Assisted Services
• (35:14) - The Challenges of Running a Service Business vs. Software Company
• (37:22) - Intuit's Strategic Shift Towards Assisted Services
• (42:08) - The Future of Accounting: AI and Automation
• (48:02) - Listener Questions and Insights on QuickBooks Features
• (54:37) - Exploring TurboTax Verified Pro and Its Implications
• (57:08) - Closing Remarks and Resources

Earn CPE for this episode

https://app.earmarkcpe.com/?course_id=8b2e537a-e5f6-4c4d-a94f-c93b44000eba

Download the Earmark CPE App
 
Apple: https://apps.apple.com/us/app/earmark-cpe/id1562599728

Android: https://play.google.com/store/apps/details?id=com.earmarkcpe.app

Connect with Our Guest, Hector Garcia, CPA

LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/hectormgarciacpa/
Website: http://www.hectorgarcia.com
Twitter: https://twitter.com/qbkaccounting

Connect with Blake Oliver, CPA

LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/blaketoliver
Twitter: https://twitter.com/blaketoliver/

Blake’s conversation with Kendale King, CPA, gives an insider’s view into the intriguing world of entertainment finance. Kendale shares his transition from Big Four auditor to accounting for multi-million dollar studio deals. You’ll see a new side of accounting blending creativity with business strategy. Gain insight into entertainment studios’ complex “Hollywood Accounting” practices around profit participation and residuals. Understand Kendale’s integral role as crypto assets shape future accounting standards. Appreciate his vision to directly integrate CPA abilities into AI applications. If you want to hear an unconventional accounting journey and glimpse the opportunities for accountants to impact media and emerging technologies, join us for Kendale’s exclusive look behind the scenes.

Sponsor
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• (00:45) - Welcome Kendale to the Show
• (01:53) - Favorite Gigs and the Impact of DreamCon
• (06:26) - The Transition from Deloitte to the Entertainment Industry
• (08:33) - Making the Leap to LA: From Audit to Entertainment Accounting
• (14:14) - Deep Dive into Entertainment Accounting with Netflix
• (16:29) - Understanding the Complexities of Content Accounting
• (22:37) - Why do Studios Shelve Finished Films?
• (26:51) - The Intricacies of Hollywood Accounting Explained
• (34:40) - The Evolution of Kendale's Own Firm: KCK
• (40:16) - The Pricing Puzzle: How KCK CPA Approaches Client Engagements
• (43:13) - How Can Accountants Learn the Entertainment Business?
• (46:40) - How Did Kendale Get into the Crypto Space?
• (49:27) - How Did You Get Invovled with FASB?
• (55:50) - Exploring AI in Accounting: The Future is Now
• (57:53) - Where to Reach Kendale

Download the Earmark CPE App
 
Apple: https://apps.apple.com/us/app/earmark-cpe/id1562599728

Android: https://play.google.com/store/apps/details?id=com.earmarkcpe.app

Connect with Our Guest, Kendale King

LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/kendale-king-cpa-90916721/

Connect with Blake Oliver, CPA

LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/blaketoliver
Twitter: https://twitter.com/blaketoliver/

David Toth of Winding River Consulting joins Blake to examine how digital marketing and AI are disrupting accounting firm marketing. They also look at how innovative firms use marketing automation, CRMs, and content marketing to generate leads and close deals from their websites.

Sponsor
Check out our Sponsor LiveFlow — Advanced Financial Reporting on Autopilot

• (00:51) - Earn Free CPE credit
• (01:28) - David Toth joins the show to talk about marketing for accounting firms
• (04:49) - How marketing fits into accounting firm's strategic growth
• (06:58) - What has changed in digital marketing over the last few years?
• (09:28) - How can a firm move from the old model to the new one?
• (11:45) - What are successful firms doing differently?
• (13:31) - Who is using HubSpot?
• (22:12) - Introhive and other data scraping tools
• (24:59) - What's the best practice for setting up these teams for success?
• (34:08) - What's your favorite digital marketing activity?
• (36:27) - Using LinkedIn correctly
• (38:59) - Have you seen any top 400 firms leveraging short form video content for social media?
• (43:24) - Having a plan and making priorities
• (47:24) - How do you see AI changing accounting marketing?
• (50:14) - Wrap up and where to reach David

Download the Earmark CPE App
 
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Android: https://play.google.com/store/apps/details?id=com.earmarkcpe.app

Connect with Our Guest, David Toth

LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/davidmtoth
Website: https://windingriverconsulting.com/

Connect with Blake Oliver, CPA

LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/blaketoliver
Twitter: https://twitter.com/blaketoliver/

Tim Petrey shares his journey from starting as a receptionist to becoming a partner in his CPA firm and founder of a payroll service. He discusses how his firm, HD Davis CPAs, evolved from a tax business to a full-service advisory firm and how they acquired small practices to grow. Tim also emphasizes the importance of adopting technology to streamline processes. Tune in to hear more about Tim's journey and the lessons he learned along the way.

Many thanks to our sponsor, LiveFlow!
To learn more about LiveFlow, visit https://earmarkcpe.promo/liveflow

• (00:00) - Preview: We want to be the Chick-fil-A of payroll providers
• (01:07) - Welcome and Tim's introduction
• (06:26) - What was your job when the 2008 financial crisis hit?
• (11:18) - What did things look like from a tech perspective when you started and what did you do to change it?
• (19:22) - Tim's thoughts on time sheets
• (30:57) - How do you price CFO or advisory services?
• (45:51) - Some of Tim's accolades
• (46:40) - How to create a better workplace
• (51:44) - How to connect with Tim

Download the Earmark CPE App
 
Apple: https://apps.apple.com/us/app/earmark-cpe/id1562599728

Android: https://play.google.com/store/apps/details?id=com.earmarkcpe.app

Connect with Our Guest, Tim Petrey

LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/petreycpa/

Learn more about HD Davis CPAs

Website: http://hddaviscpas.pro

Connect with Blake Oliver, CPA

LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/blaketoliver
Twitter: https://twitter.com/blaketoliver/

Greg Kyte and Caleb Newquist of the Oh My Fraud podcast share their favorite government fraud cases they've covered on the Oh My Fraud podcast, including Rita Crundwell's $53 million municipal fraud in Dixon, Illinois, and Claudia Viles' $500,000 tax-collector fraud in Anson, Maine. They also examine the "Fat Leonard" Navy contracting fraud, Eddie Tipton's lottery rigging scheme, and some pandemic-related frauds like PPP and EIDL abuse.

Sponsor
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• (00:52) - Overview of Government Frauds
• (01:58) - The Case of Rita Crundwell
• (06:43) - How Rita Crundwell Was Caught
• (14:36) - The Case of Claudia Viles
• (32:17) - The Fat Leonard Scandal Unveiled
• (33:43) - Exorbitant Invoices and Ignored Red Flags
• (34:45) - Bravo Zulus and Dirty Work
• (36:13) - Security Measures and Exploiting Tragedies
• (39:11) - The Crux of the Fraud: Inflated Invoices
• (41:00) - Lottery Fraud: Eddie Tipton's Scheme
• (49:20) - Pandemic Fraud: A Rock and a Hard Place
• (55:52) - Final Thoughts and Takeaways

Download the Earmark CPE App
 
Apple: https://apps.apple.com/us/app/earmark-cpe/id1562599728

Android: https://play.google.com/store/apps/details?id=com.earmarkcpe.app

Connect with Our Guests:

Greg Kyte, CPA

Website: http://www.comedyCPE.com
X: https://twitter.com/gregkyte
LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/gregkyte/
 
Caleb Newquist

X: https://twitter.com/cnewquist
LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/calebnewquist/

Learn more about Oh My Fraud

Website: https://ohmyfraud.com/

Connect with Blake Oliver, CPA

LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/blaketoliver
Twitter: https://twitter.com/blaketoliver/

Sign up to get free CPE for listening to this podcast:

https://earmarkcpe.com

Download the Earmark CPE App:
 
Apple: https://apps.apple.com/us/app/earmark-cpe/id1562599728

Android: https://play.google.com/store/apps/details?id=com.earmarkcpe.app

Client Data Security: Best Practices to Protect Your Firm from Serious Threats  
https://rb.gy/jh6guz

Connect with Our Guest, Byron Patrick
LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/byronpatrick/
Twitter: https://twitter.com/byron_cpa

Learn more about Botkeeper

Website: https://www.botkeeper.com/

Connect with Blake Oliver, CPA

LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/blaketoliver
Twitter: https://twitter.com/blaketoliver/

In this episode of the Earmark Accounting Podcast, Blake talks with Stacey Feldman, CPA, about her experiences in the world of CPG and accounting at PopSockets. They look at the challenges of scaling a startup, from tracking components in a supply chain to accounting for inventory costs. Stacey also reveals insights around simplifying supply and the importance of real-time data for accurate accounting.

Sponsor
Check out our Sponsor LiveFlow — Advanced Financial Reporting on Autopilot

Download the Earmark CPE App
 
Apple: https://apps.apple.com/us/app/earmark-cpe/id1562599728

Android: https://play.google.com/store/apps/details?id=com.earmarkcpe.app

Chapters

• (00:00) - Preview: The importance of merging accounting and finance
• (00:44) - Earn Free CPE
• (01:05) - Welcome Stacey Feldman to the show
• (04:06) - Stacey's career path in the CPG industry
• (11:16) - What was the first big challenge that you had to solve in accounting for Pop Sockets?
• (15:05) - What did you map with the supply chain?
• (25:35) - What put PopSockets on the map and scaled the brand?
• (28:16) - What is FBM?
• (28:49) - How did you do all the accounting for PopSockets? What tools did you use?
• (36:54) - PopSockets 14 Million Dollar mistake
• (42:14) - What lessons have you learned regarding customer discounts?
• (47:44) - Differences between full manufacturing and light manufacturing
• (53:57) - What other cutting edge technology or interesting tech is Sunday using?
• (01:03:45) - Wrap up and how to connect with Stacey

Connect with Our Guest, Stacey Feldman

LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/feldmanstacey/

Learn more about Full Send Finance

https://www.fullsendfinance.com/

Connect with Blake Oliver, CPA

LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/blaketoliver
Twitter: https://twitter.com/blaketoliver/

Thanks to Our Sponsors!

Accountests: https://www.accountests.com/
Dark Horse CPAs: https://abetterway.cpa/

Sign up to get free CPE for listening to this podcast

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Download the Earmark CPE App
 
Apple: https://apps.apple.com/us/app/earmark-cpe/id1562599728

Android: https://play.google.com/store/apps/details?id=com.earmarkcpe.app

Connect with Our Guests

Brittany Brown: https://www.linkedin.com/in/brittany-brown-b8324812/
Kexin Smith: https://www.linkedin.com/in/kexin-smith-15891526/

Learn more about LedgerGurus

https://ledgergurus.com/about/

LedgerGurus University

https://ledgergurus.thinkific.com/

Connect with Blake Oliver, CPA

LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/blaketoliver
Twitter: https://twitter.com/blaketoliver/

We’re talking to Chase Birky, CEO and co-founder of Dark Horse CPAs, a non-traditional CPA firm. Learn the advantages and challenges of being a CPA firm, the importance of creating a positive work environment for staff, and the need for the accounting profession to attract and retain more young talent. Tune in to hear insights into alternative paths for CPAs and how the industry can work towards creating a more sustainable and fulfilling workplace culture.

Many thanks to our sponsor, LiveFlow!
To learn more about LiveFlow, visit https://earmarkcpe.promo/liveflow

• (00:00) - EAP 42
• (01:10) - Welcome Chase to the podcast
• (02:47) - Unpacking the "Anti-CPA Firm" concept
• (07:13) - What is different about Dark Horse versus the traditional partnership model?
• (10:27) - Office Space should be mandatory viewing and work/life balance
• (19:39) - Are there any issues running a CPA firm the way you do?
• (25:14) - Does you firm do audits?
• (26:03) - Why did you decide to make your firm a CPA firm?
• (28:19) - What things have you had to go through as a CPA firm? Peer review?
• (33:42) - CPA firms can't give equity to non CPAs
• (40:01) - If you were the president of the AICPA what would you be saying to firms?
• (44:08) - Blakes reads posts on r/accounting about the industry
• (53:39) - Wrap up and how to reach Chase and earn free CPE

Download the Earmark CPE App
Apple: https://apps.apple.com/us/app/earmark-cpe/id1562599728

Android: https://play.google.com/store/apps/details?id=com.earmarkcpe.app

Connect with Chase Birky
LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/chasebirky/

Learn more about Dark Horse CPAs
Website: http://darkhorse.cpa

Connect with Blake Oliver, CPA
LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/blaketoliver
Twitter: https://twitter.com/blaketoliver/

Blake challenges guest Noah D. Buxton, Co-Founder and CEO of The Network Firm, to make the case for Bitcoin’s lasting value. They explore the nature of money, the complexities of digital scarcity, the inevitability of tokenized real-world assets, and the forces driving institutional interest in cryptocurrency. This candid exchange offers insights into what truly underpins Bitcoin’s worth, how regulators and investors view it, and why blockchain technology is poised to reshape finance as we know it. Whether you’re a skeptic or believer, this discussion reveals the evolving landscape of digital assets.

(Originally recorded on December 12, 2024, on Earmark Webinars+)

Sponsor
MakersHub - https://earmarkcpe.promo/makershub

• (00:52) - Bitcoin's Current Market Status
• (02:09) - Understanding Bitcoin's Value
• (05:26) - The Functions and Qualities of Money
• (06:39) - Bitcoin as a Store of Value
• (22:37) - Bitcoin vs. Other Cryptocurrencies
• (30:19) - Debating Bitcoin's True Value
• (31:21) - Real Estate vs. Bitcoin
• (31:48) - The Greater Fool Theory
• (33:18) - Bitcoin's Use Cases and Misconceptions
• (34:04) - Government Involvement in Bitcoin
• (38:27) - Decentralization and Wealth Distribution
• (43:57) - The Future of Digital Assets
• (50:56) - Conclusion and Future Discussions

Download the Earmark CPE App
 
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Connect with Our Guest, Noah Buxton

LinkedIn: http://linkedin.com/in/noahbuxton

Learn more about The Network Firm

Website: https://www.thenetworkfirm.com/about-us

Connect with Blake Oliver, CPA

LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/blaketoliver
Twitter: https://twitter.com/blaketoliver/

Hitendra R. Patil joins Blake for an insightful conversation about the staffing shortage in the accounting profession, identifying overwork and lack of work-life balance as key issues causing high burnout rates. They explore potential solutions like dropping the billable hour model, measuring impact rather than hours worked, outsourcing certain tasks, and focusing on specific value-added services. Patil also describes how his company helps accounting firms efficiently leverage offshore talent.

Sponsor
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• (00:47) - Hitendra Patil joins the show
• (03:24) - Let's talk about CAS
• (04:43) - What do you see firms call their communication with clients?
• (12:19) - National Association of Tax Professionals 2023 study
• (13:27) - CAS is vague and firms need to figure out what they want to offer from it
• (14:17) - What is causing the accounting shortage?
• (20:35) - How big of problems are the overwork and pay?
• (25:01) - More and more firms are offshoring work
• (29:34) - How long is offshoring a viable option?
• (32:52) - What are the accounting student numbers in India?
• (35:03) - Korn Ferry study on future shortages of working professionals
• (40:13) - What is the real underlying cause of the talent shortage
• (41:52) - Hourly timesheets and billing
• (44:01) - How can accountants measure impact on clients?
• (51:13) - Datamatics Business Solutions Inc.
• (58:07) - Thanks for listening and remember to earn your free CPE on Earmark

Download the Earmark CPE App
 
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Connect with Our Guest, Hitendra R. Patil

LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/hitendrapatil/
Twitter: https://twitter.com/HitendraRPatil
Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/HitendraRPatil/
Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/accountaneur/

Learn more about Datamatics Business Solutions, Inc. (DBSI)
Website: https://datamaticscpa.com/accounting-bookkeeping-outsourcing-for-usa-cpas/

Connect with Blake Oliver, CPA

LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/blaketoliver
Twitter: https://twitter.com/blaketoliver/

Half of accountants believe that diversity is important. Half do not. Meanwhile, efforts to increase diversity in accounting firms have had disappointing results. Todd Shapiro and Kari Natale of the Illinois CPA Society join to discuss why and what the profession should do about it.

Many thanks to our sponsor, LiveFlow!
To learn more about LiveFlow, visit https://earmarkcpe.promo/liveflow

Download the Earmark CPE App
 
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• (00:00) - Preview: Coninue to talk about the diversity issues
• (00:51) - How to earn FREE CPE
• (01:13) - Overview of the diversity problem in the CPA profession
• (04:31) - Tell us about your internship program
• (09:59) - Why are accountants leaving the profession?
• (14:14) - Things firms can do to help these employees be better preprared
• (24:25) - Launching 2.0 version to ensure success once they are at a job
• (27:59) - 36% of accounting profession doesn't think DEI is important
• (31:55) - Organizations make better decisions when employees are diverse
• (40:58) - What can universities and schools do to prepare accounting majors better?
• (42:31) - What is it that alumni felt like they were unprepared to do?
• (44:55) - Should schools be teaching more soft skills
• (51:04) - Wrap up and where to reach Todd and Kari

Read "A CPA Diversity Report: Uncovering the Barriers to Success"
https://www.icpas.org/information/professional-issues/cpa-diversity

Connect with Our Guests

Todd Shapiro
LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/todd-shapiro-536b6b1/

Kari Natale
LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/karinatale/

Learn more about the Illinois CPA Society

http://icpas.org

Connect with Blake Oliver, CPA

LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/blaketoliver
Twitter: https://twitter.com/blaketoliver/

Wayne Berson, CEO of BDO USA, joins Blake and guest host, David Leary, to discuss BDO's recent transition to an employee stock ownership plan (ESOP), making it the first major accounting firm to implement an ESOP structure. They discuss how the ESOP aims to attract and retain talent in the accounting profession and provide employees at all levels with an ownership stake in the firm.

Chapters

• (00:44) - Why do an Employee Stock Ownership Plan(ESOP) now?
• (09:06) - BDO borrowed $1.3 billion - what is that money for?
• (14:52) - How will ESOP benefit staff?
• (19:06) - Is there a way to pull money out of the ESOP without leaving?
• (29:15) - How do you become a partner at BDO?
• (31:25) - What are my options when I'm a partner at BDO?
• (35:54) - What are your thoughts on the talent shortage and the 150-hour rule?
• (47:47) - What advice do you have for other firms thinking of becoming an ESOP?

Download the Earmark CPE App
 
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Connect with Our Guest, Wayne Berson

LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/wayneberson/

Learn more about BDO

Website: https://www.bdo.com/

Connect with Blake Oliver, CPA

LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/blaketoliver
Twitter: https://twitter.com/blaketoliver/

Blake Oliver is joined by Katherine Studley and Jim. Katherine and Jim specialize in helping OnlyFans creators and sex workers with their accounting and tax needs. They discuss the unique challenges facing these clients, as well as the common misconceptions and stereotypes surrounding the industry. Katherine shares how she built her business through TikTok and Instagram, and Jim explains how their pricing structure and hiring practices have contributed to their success. Tune in to learn more about this fascinating and underserved niche in the accounting world.

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Chapters

• (00:00) - Preview: Everyone deserves judgment-free financial representation
• (01:10) - Earn Free CPE
• (01:30) - Welcome Katherine to the show
• (02:36) - Background on Jim
• (04:11) - Who are your clients? Are they all OnlyFans creators?
• (05:08) - Chapter 6
• (08:20) - Do you see sex workers being discriminated against in audits?
• (13:29) - What deductions should OnlyFans creators be taking?
• (14:32) - What are the biggest challenges you face working with OnlyFans creators?
• (16:12) - How do you make 1040s work?
• (18:01) - Where are you finding talent, and how are you training them?
• (21:44) - What was the biggest lift to get ClickUp to work for your firm?
• (22:52) - How do you like ProConnect compared to other software you've used in the past?
• (27:12) - What other apps do you use or recommend?
• (31:13) - Chapter 15
• (32:22) - How do your clients get into this line of work?
• (35:04) - What type of income are your clients making from this?
• (37:34) - Are you worried about TikTok potentially getting banned in the U.S?
• (41:04) - Why do banks or payment processors give OnlyFans creators such a hard time?
• (42:04) - Give us a sense of the size of the industry
• (44:47) - What are some tips on creating content that appeals to your target audience
• (47:52) - Human-trafficking and sex-trafficking training
• (52:26) - Wrap up and where to reach Katherine or learn more

Connect with Our Guests

Katherine Studley:
 
LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/katherine-studley
Twitter: https://twitter.com/theonlyconsult
Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/katherine.studley
Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/the_only_consultant
TikTok: https://www.tiktok.com/@the_only_consultant

Connect with Blake Oliver, CPA

LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/blaketoliver
Twitter: https://twitter.com/blaketoliver/

Referenced in the episode:

The Cloud Accounting Podcast, Episode 263, "Crypto Is A Scam"
https://www.cloudaccountingpodcast.com/263

Sign up to get free CPE for listening to podcasts:
https://earmarkcpe.com

Download the Earmark CPE App:
 
Apple: https://apps.apple.com/us/app/earmark-cpe/id1562599728

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Connect with Our Guest

https://www.linkedin.com/in/dr-sean-stein-smith-dba-cpa-63307444/

Connect with Blake Oliver, CPA

LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/blaketoliver
Twitter: https://twitter.com/blaketoliver/

Thinking of selling your practice? Join us as serial acquirer Michael Ly shares an insider’s guide to preparing, pricing & selling your accounting firm. Learn how to value your firm for maximum sale price, find the right buyer, negotiate win-wins, protect clients through transition, and structure creative deals - whether nearing retirement or just exploring options. Get practical tips from an active buyer on ensuring a smooth exit on your terms.

(Originally recorded on March 26, 2024, on Earmark Webinars+)

Sponsor
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• (01:34) - The Evolution of Reconciled: A Modern Accounting Firm
• (03:48) - Insights on Buying and Selling Accounting Firms
• (04:19) - Determining the Right Time to Sell Your Accounting Firm
• (09:44) - Maximizing Your Firm's Value Before Selling
• (16:53) - Adopting Modern Technology and Billing Models
• (23:04) - Understanding Firm Valuation and Buyer Insights
• (28:32) - Strategies for Enhancing Firm Valuation
• (30:24) - Evaluating Potential Buyers: What to Look For
• (32:11) - Client Retention and Revenue Strategies Post-Acquisition
• (36:32) - Valuation Insights: Navigating Firm Sales
• (41:19) - Optimizing Earn-Out Structures for Sellers
• (43:44) - Non-Compete Agreements: Protecting Your Business Post-Sale
• (46:11) - Common Mistakes Sellers Make and How to Avoid Them
• (50:20) - Tax Optimization Strategies for Selling Your Firm
• (54:03) - The Future of Accounting M&A Market
• (56:33) - Closing Remarks and Resources for CPE

Download the Earmark CPE App
 
Apple: https://apps.apple.com/us/app/earmark-cpe/id1562599728

Android: https://play.google.com/store/apps/details?id=com.earmarkcpe.app

Connect with Our Guest, Michael Ly
LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/michaelly
Twitter: https://twitter.com/michael_ly_?lang=en

Learn more about Reconciled
Website: https://www.reconciled.com/about

Connect with Blake Oliver, CPA

LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/blaketoliver
Twitter: https://twitter.com/blaketoliver/

Sign up to get free CPE for listening to this podcast:

https://earmarkcpe.com

Download the Earmark CPE App:
 
Apple: https://apps.apple.com/us/app/earmark-cpe/id1562599728

Android: https://play.google.com/store/apps/details?id=com.earmarkcpe.app

Guests

Andrea MacDonald, CPA: https://www.linkedin.com/in/andrea-macdonald-cpa-mba-4704042b
Owner, Pro Tax & Accounting | Accredited Business Intermediary | Fractional Chief Financial Officer for Spike's K9 Fund

Learn more about Andrea's firm, Pro Tax & Accounting:
Official website: https://protaxllcva.com/about/

Twyla Verhelst, CPA: https://www.linkedin.com/in/twylav/
Head of FreshBooks Accountant Channel & Leader of the Accounting Partner Program | Creator of the Women in Accounting Mentorship Program

Learn more about the Women in Accounting Mentorship Program:
Official Website: https://www.womeninaccounting.online/

Connect with Blake Oliver, CPA

Linkedin: https://www.linkedin.com/in/blaketoliver
Twitter: https://twitter.com/blaketoliver/

Sign up to get free CPE for listening to this podcast:
https://earmarkcpe.com/

Connect with Kenji Kuramoto, Founder and CEO of Acuity
https://www.linkedin.com/in/kenjikuramoto/

Connect with Matthew May, VP of Sales and Marketing at Acuity
https://www.linkedin.com/in/thetechcpa/

Learn more about Acuity
https://acuity.co/about/

Listen to more episodes of Drink While You Think:
https://www.youtube.com/playlist?list=PLXnap0yocZOW5DtK9YBRAiJPzBq4l-nbz

Connect with Blake Oliver, CPA
LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/blaketoliver
Twitter: https://twitter.com/blaketoliver/

Join Blake Oliver as he interviews Kyle Walters, CPA firm partner and wealth manager at Atlas Wealth Advisors. Despite not being a CPA himself, Kyle brings a fresh perspective to the accounting world. We'll explore:

- The benefits of integrating wealth management and accounting services
- How non-traditional backgrounds can lead to innovative approaches
- Candid insights into client feedback that CPAs rarely hear
- Strategies for delivering the integrated advice clients truly want

(Originally recorded on August 1, 2024, on Earmark Webinars+)

Sponsor
MakersHub - https://earmarkcpe.promo/makershub

• (01:05) - Kyle's Journey into Wealth Management and CPA Integration
• (02:46) - Building a CPA Firm from Scratch
• (05:05) - Client-Centric Approach and the Red Chair Concept
• (06:28) - Differences Between Wealth Management and Traditional CPA Firms
• (10:15) - Challenges and Benefits of Integrated Services
• (15:11) - Improving Client Relationships and Communication
• (30:16) - Scheduling Work to Improve Efficiency
• (35:48) - Client Communication Challenges & Strategies
• (38:21) - Logistical Issues and Solutions
• (41:28) - The Role of CPAs and Financial Advisors
• (47:40) - Integrated Financial Advice
• (50:49) - Client Engagement and Meeting Schedules
• (53:46) - The Future of Accounting and Financial Advice
• (55:41) - Getting Started in Wealth Management
• (01:00:33) - The Impact of AI on Tax Preparation
• (01:01:45) - Conclusion and Upcoming Events

Download the Earmark CPE App
 
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Connect with Our Guest, Kyle Walters
LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/kyledwalters

Connect with Blake Oliver, CPA

LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/blaketoliver
Twitter: https://twitter.com/blaketoliver/

Explore cutting-edge hiring solutions for accountancy firms with Robin Thieme, CEO and founder of KBS CFO, and industry expert Blake Oliver. Learn how work simulations provide a "try before you buy" approach, ensuring a better fit for the firm and the candidate. Discover the benefits of apprenticeship programs, which KBS CFO has successfully implemented. Robin will share insights from her experience running a Results Only Work Environment and discuss how these innovative practices can help your firm attract and retain top talent. Don't miss this opportunity to revolutionize your hiring process!

(Originally recorded on June 19, 2024, on Earmark Webinars+)

Sponsor
MakersHub - https://earmarkcpe.promo/makershub

• (01:57) - Robin Thieme's Background and Firm Overview
• (05:44) - Specialization in Distilleries
• (07:57) - Team Structure and Roles
• (13:17) - Innovative Hiring Practices
• (18:30) - Work Simulation Process
• (29:55) - Remote Work Challenges and Skills
• (38:24) - Introduction to Results Only Work Environment
• (38:53) - Attracting Top Talent with a Tech-Forward Approach
• (40:41) - Flexibility and Accountability in Remote Work
• (43:57) - Managing Team Performance and Client Expectations
• (45:26) - How to Hold Your Team Accountable
• (48:29) - Choosing the Right Workflow Tools
• (56:52) - Exploring Apprenticeship Programs
• (01:01:55) - The Role of Timesheets in Job Costing
• (01:04:09) - Conclusion and Contact Information

Earn CPE for this episode!

https://www.earmark.app/course/c41e6910-586a-474d-ae77-febfce14898f

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Connect with Our Guest, Robin H Thieme, CITP, CGMA, CPA
LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/kbscfo/

Learn more about KBS CFO
Website: https://www.kbscfo.com/#

Connect with Blake Oliver, CPA

LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/blaketoliver
Twitter: https://twitter.com/blaketoliver/

On this bonus episode Blake explores how artificial intelligence will transform the accounting profession. You'll learn how leading AI tools and chatbots can help automate routine tasks, freeing you up to focus on more strategic, higher-value services. He'll also walk through real-world examples of using AI for document analysis, tax research, correspondence, transcript review, drafting/editing, and more. Whether you're a sole practitioner or work in a large firm, this episode will equip you with actionable tactics to drive efficiency with existing clients and expand your advisory services. Don't let AI disrupt accounting without you!

Chapters

• (00:00) - Introduction and Overview of AI Chatbots
• (01:11) - Potential of AI in Automating Accounting
• (02:43) - How AI Can Improve Communication in Accounting
• (03:19) - Current Usage of AI in Accounting
• (04:17) - Exploring Leading AI Chatbots
• (04:32) - Introduction to ChatGPT
• (06:22) - Introduction to Claude by Anthropic
• (07:03) - Introduction to BARD and Grammarly
• (08:19) - Using Bing Chat for Web Search
• (16:42) - Document Analysis with Claude
• (23:48) - Explaining Accounting Concepts with AI
• (31:12) - Exploring ChatGPT's Web Search Feature
• (31:41) - Answering Audience Questions: Data Protection in Microsoft Copilot
• (33:27) - Demonstrating ChatGPT's Response Generation
• (36:08) - Using AI for Client Questions and Voicemail Transcripts
• (41:36) - Drafting Policies and Procedures with AI
• (41:45) - Responding to IRS Notices with AI
• (46:48) - Summarizing Meeting Transcripts with AI
• (54:21) - Q&A and Closing Remarks

Download the Earmark CPE App
 
Apple: https://apps.apple.com/us/app/earmark-cpe/id1562599728

Android: https://play.google.com/store/apps/details?id=com.earmarkcpe.app

Connect with Blake Oliver, CPA
LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/blaketoliver
Twitter: https://twitter.com/blaketoliver/

Thank you to our sponsor, ApprovalMax!

To learn more about ApprovalMax, visit: https://earmarkcpe.promo/approvalmax

Sign up to get free CPE for listening to this podcast

https://earmarkcpe.com

Download the Earmark CPE App
 
Apple: https://apps.apple.com/us/app/earmark-cpe/id1562599728

Android: https://play.google.com/store/apps/details?id=com.earmarkcpe.app

Connect with Felix:
LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/f%C3%A9lix-latour-781291a4/

Learn about Le Controleur:
https://www.controleur.ca/

Apps Felix highlighted in the episode:

ApprovalMax: https://www.approvalmax.com/
Front: https://front.com/
Fathom: https://www.fathomhq.com/

Connect with Blake Oliver, CPA

LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/blaketoliver
Twitter: https://twitter.com/blaketoliver/

The CPA profession faces an identity crisis, with challenges in the candidate pipeline, non-attest services' role, and CPE's effectiveness. This webinar explores the impact of the fifth-year requirement, the value of consulting services, the need for engaging CPE, and the use of the CPA designation in non-traditional roles. Join our expert panel as we discuss solutions to navigate the profession's challenges and opportunities and redefine the CPA identity in an ever-changing landscape.

(This episode originally aired on April 9, 2024 on Earmark Webinars+)

Sponsor
ShareFile - https://earmarkcpe.promo/sharefile

• (01:11) - Exploring the CPA Identity Crisis
• (03:10) - Challenges in the CPA Profession: Enrollment Decline and Talent Shortage
• (05:19) - Rethinking Education and Work Experience in Accounting
• (08:16) - The Future of Accounting: Automation, Advisory Services, and the CPA Role
• (10:01) - The Split Between Audit and Advisory Services in Accounting Firms
• (12:22) - Addressing the Pipeline Problem and Work Culture in Accounting Firms
• (29:51) - Reimagining the CPA Profession and Certification
• (32:35) - Exploring the Work-Life Balance in Accounting
• (33:19) - Engaging with Live Stream Viewers and Discussing Regulatory Solutions
• (33:40) - The Debate on Auditor Work Hours and Firm Practices
• (34:38) - CBIZ's Unique Position in the Professional Services Industry
• (35:46) - The Role of Regulators and Proposals for Reform
• (36:53) - The Case for Government-Run Audits
• (37:30) - Rethinking Overtime and Compensation in Accounting
• (51:40) - Addressing the CPA Identity Crisis and Recommendations
• (57:47) - Concluding Remarks and Future Directions

Download the Earmark CPE App
 
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Android: https://play.google.com/store/apps/details?id=com.earmarkcpe.app

Connect with Our Guests

David  Bergstein, CPA, CITP, CGMA
LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/davidbergstein/

Steven Sacks, CPA, CGMA, ABC
LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/stevenesacks/

Connect with Blake Oliver, CPA

LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/blaketoliver
Twitter: https://twitter.com/blaketoliver/

This episode is sponsored by Jirav. Learn more at jirav.com/earmark

Sign up to get free CPE for listening to this podcast
https://earmarkcpe.com

Download the Earmark CPE App
Apple: https://apps.apple.com/us/app/earmark-cpe/id1562599728

Android: https://play.google.com/store/apps/details?id=com.earmarkcpe.app

Connect with Rita
LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/cpamanagement/
Website: https://ritakeller.com/

Learn more Keller Advisors, LLC
Keller Advisors, LLC: https://www.facebook.com/CPAmanagement

Connect with Blake Oliver, CPA
LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/blaketoliver
Twitter: https://twitter.com/blaketoliver/

Many thanks to our sponsor, LiveFlow!
To learn more about LiveFlow, visit https://earmarkcpe.promo/liveflow

Sign up to get free CPE for listening to this podcast

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Download the Earmark CPE App
 
Apple: https://apps.apple.com/us/app/earmark-cpe/id1562599728

Android: https://play.google.com/store/apps/details?id=com.earmarkcpe.app

Connect with Our Guest, Argel Sabillo, CPA

LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/argelsabillocpa/

Learn more about DTLA CPA

Website: http://dtlacpa.com

Visit heyApril: https://heyapril.io/

Connect with Blake Oliver, CPA

LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/blaketoliver
Twitter: https://twitter.com/blaketoliver/

Blake Oliver interviews Savannah Bananas CFO Tim Naddy to learn unconventional strategies for explosive business growth. Discover how this innovative sports entertainment team achieved a million-fan waitlist and sold out over 200 consecutive games. Tim will share insights on creating innovative revenue streams, developing fan-centric KPIs to drive profitability, and managing financial risks in rapidly scaling businesses. Whether you're in sports, entertainment, or another industry, discover how to apply these creative accounting practices to transform your financial approach. Walk away with actionable strategies to enhance customer engagement, boost growth, and reimagine your business's financial success.

(Originally recorded on August 7, 2024, on Earmark Webinars+)

Sponsor
MakersHub - https://earmarkcpe.promo/makershub

• (00:00) - How to Earn CPE
• (01:17) - Behind the Scenes with the Savannah Bananas
• (03:06) - The Role of a CPA in Sports Entertainment
• (04:40) - Educating the Next Generation of Creatives
• (07:37) - The Savannah Bananas Phenomenon
• (12:59) - Fan-Centric Business Model
• (20:23) - Challenges and Innovations in Finance
• (29:20) - Touring and Merchandise Strategy
• (34:48) - Partnering for Regional Warehousing
• (35:30) - Forecasting Inventory Needs
• (36:05) - Managing Merchandise Logistics
• (37:06) - Understanding Fan Data
• (39:03) - Finance Tech Stack Overview
• (49:12) - Challenges of Rapid Expansion
• (55:55) - Creative Accounting Practices
• (59:14) - Advice for Aspiring Accountants
• (01:02:10) - Conclusion and CPE Information

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Connect with Our Guest, Tim Naddy
LinkedIn: http://www.linkedin.com/in/drtimnaddy221b

Learn more about The Savannah Bananas
https://thesavannahbananas.com/

Connect with Blake Oliver, CPA

LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/blaketoliver
Twitter: https://twitter.com/blaketoliver/

Rising CPA star Logan Graf joins Blake to discuss his success in growing a profitable firm in just three years. Logan shares his unique transparent approach, how he rapidly increases his pricing year over year, and how he structures productized service packages to maximize profits. Blake and Logan talk about automating the client onboarding process, and key strategies around requiring upfront payments. This eye-opening episode is full of actionable advice to help CPAs accelerate firm growth and build their dream practice.

Sponsor
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• (07:40) - How Logan spends his time making content
• (10:41) - What type of services do you offer at your firm?
• (17:12) - How do you reevaluate pricing and implement higher pricing?
• (26:25) - Do you have any tips to raise prices without making clients angry?
• (29:48) - Getting clients to pay you upfront
• (35:55) - Have you started sending out proposals for next year yet?
• (49:03) - Tell me about your package offerings on your website
• (55:29) - How do you track projects and thoughts on practice management software?
• (01:03:14) - Blake demonstrates the ChatGPT CapCut integration
• (01:08:30) - Thanks for listening and remember to subscribe

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Connect with Our Guest, Logan Graf
LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/logangraf/
Twitter: https://twitter.com/LoganGrafTax
YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCF2X_OgakltGGp-r5AJNsPQ

Learn more about The Graf Tax Co. PLLC
https://www.graftaxco.com/

Connect with Blake Oliver, CPA

LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/blaketoliver
Twitter: https://twitter.com/blaketoliver/

Join Blake Oliver for an interview with Eric Azevedo, a California CPA who has set up his own international tax practice in rural Japan. Discover how Eric leveraged his Japanese language skills to break into Tokyo's accounting scene and the unique challenges he faced. We'll delve into the complexities of international taxation, U.S. expat issues, and strategies for effective cross-border tax preparation. Whether you're planning an international move or interested in global accounting, gain valuable insights from Eric's journey and learn how to bridge cultures in the world of tax. Don’t miss this opportunity to enhance your international tax expertise!

(Originally recorded on September 16, 2024, on Earmark Webinars+)

Sponsor
ShareFile - https://earmarkcpe.promo/sharefile

• (01:19) - Eric's Journey from Philosophy to Accounting
• (03:04) - Life and Career in Japan
• (04:19) - Transitioning Back to the US and Becoming a CPA
• (05:56) - Experiences in the California Community College System
• (07:49) - Living in Japan: City vs Countryside
• (10:44) - Starting an Accounting Career in Japan
• (17:32) - Cultural Adjustments and Work-Life Balance
• (27:00) - Working with Expats and Tax Complexities
• (31:41) - Understanding Tax Penalties for Expats
• (32:48) - Streamline Procedures for Tax Compliance
• (33:59) - Navigating the Japanese Tax System
• (37:37) - Remote Work and Connectivity in Japan
• (40:56) - Building a Home in Rural Japan
• (43:19) - Managing a Growing Client Base
• (53:03) - Cultural Nuances in International Accounting
• (55:18) - Travel Tips and Destinations in Japan
• (57:42) - Conclusion and Contact Information

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Connect with Our Guest, Eric Azevedo

LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/ericazevedo

Connect with Blake Oliver, CPA

LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/blaketoliver
Twitter: https://twitter.com/blaketoliver/

Do you have clients living or working abroad who could save big on their taxes? In this episode, expat tax specialist Vincenzo Villamena outlines creative strategies US citizens overseas can use to legally reduce their tax burden. Learn how your expat clients can exclude $120,000 in foreign earned income, set up offshore corporate structures to cut their tax rate in half, eliminate 15% self-employment tax, and more.

Sponsor
ShareFile - https://earmarkcpe.promo/sharefile

• (00:50) - Welcome Vincenzo to the Show
• (01:50) - Exploring Expat Taxation with Vincenzo Villamena
• (03:27) - Vincenzo's Journey from Corporate America to Entrepreneurship Outside of the US
• (09:53) - The Remote Work Revolution and Its Impact
• (12:36) - Navigating the Complex World of Expat Taxes
• (13:00) - Where are Most of Your Clients?
• (15:05) - Strategies for Expats to Optimize Taxes
• (24:10) - Understanding Corporate Structures and Tax Deferral
• (24:20) - The Good, the Bad, and the Planning of Tax Strategies
• (28:18) - What Work Do We Have to Do to Get These Benefits?
• (30:23) - Comprehensive Service Offerings: From Setup to Compliance
• (31:57) - How Do You Charge For Your Services?
• (33:12) - The Exponential Savings of Offshore Structuring
• (35:36) - Exploring the Vibrant Culture of Carnival in Brazil
• (37:22) - Building a Strong Remote Team Culture
• (41:57) - Leveraging Technology for Remote Collaboration
• (45:04) - A Day in the Life of an Expat Entrepreneur
• (50:38) - The Transformative Experience of Living Abroad
• (53:23) - Wrapping Up: Insights from an Expat Tax Expert

Download the Earmark CPE App
 
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Connect with Our Guest, Vincenzo Villamena

Website: https://onlinetaxman.com/
Website: https://globalexpatadvisors.com/
LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/company/online-taxman/
Twitter: Guest Twitter
Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/OnlineTaxman?mibextid=LQQJ4d
Instagram: https://instagram.com/onlinetaxman?igshid=OGQ5ZDc2ODk2ZA%3D%3D&utm_source=qr

Connect with Blake Oliver, CPA

LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/blaketoliver
Twitter: https://twitter.com/blaketoliver/

Ever wondered why there's so much questionable tax advice circulating on social media? In this eye-opening episode, Blake Oliver sits down with Jasmine DiLucci, a rare triple-threat professional - attorney, CPA, and enrolled agent with nearly 500,000 YouTube subscribers.

Jasmine pulls back the curtain on why tax misinformation spreads like wildfire online and reveals the number one reason tax strategies fail (even legitimate ones): poor implementation and documentation. Through her journey from taking over her parents' small practice to building a multi-million dollar firm, she shares hard-earned wisdom about scaling a tax practice and finding team members who can uphold your standards.

You'll discover how Jasmine unexpectedly found that her social media presence attracted not just clients, but exceptional talent to her firm. She also provides practical insights on tax resolution work, dealing with the IRS, and resources that can help tax professionals level up their expertise. Whether you're a tax practitioner looking to grow or a business owner wanting to avoid tax pitfalls, this conversation delivers valuable takeaways that could save you thousands in an audit.

Sponsor
MakersHub - https://earmarkcpe.promo/makershub

• (00:00) - Introduction to Jasmine DiLucci
• (01:25) - The Rise of Tax Misinformation
• (05:34) - Challenges in Tax Law and IRS Audits
• (08:38) - Jasmine's Practice and Clientele
• (12:22) - The Importance of Proper Tax Documentation
• (29:11) - Leveraging Social Media for Tax Education
• (31:38) - Inspiration from Family
• (32:28) - Early Exposure to Tax Profession
• (34:15) - Taking Over the Family Business
• (35:49) - Scaling the Firm & the Power of Social Media
• (42:32) - Building a Strong Team
• (50:33) - Technology Stack
• (51:48) - Conclusion and Community

Download the Earmark CPE App
 
Apple: https://apps.apple.com/us/app/earmark-cpe/id1562599728

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Connect with Our Guest, Jasmine DiLucci

LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/jasminedilucci/
Twitter: https://twitter.com/DiLucciCPA
Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/diluccicpas
Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/diluccicpa
TikTok: https://www.tiktok.com/@diluccicpa

Learn more about DiLucci CPA Firm

https://dilucci.com/

Connect with Blake Oliver, CPA

LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/blaketoliver
Twitter: https://twitter.com/blaketoliver/

Many thanks to our sponsor, ApprovalMax, for making this episode possible!
To learn more about ApprovalMax, please visit their website: https://www.approvalmax.com/

Sign up to get free CPE for listening to this podcast

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Download the Earmark CPE App
 
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Connect with Our Guest, David Wieseneck, VP Finance, Demostack

LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/davidwieseneck/
Twitter: https://twitter.com/daveweez

Learn more about Demostack

https://www.demostack.com/about

Connect with Blake Oliver, CPA

LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/blaketoliver
Twitter: https://twitter.com/blaketoliver/

Get free CPE for listening to podcasts
https://earmarkcpe.com/

Connect with Ed Mendlowitz
LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/edward-mendlowitz-a6a1305/
Email: emendlowitz@withum.com

Connect with Blake Oliver
Linkedin: https://www.linkedin.com/in/blaketoliver
Twitter: https://twitter.com/blaketoliver/

In an era where the right software can make or break your accounting firm, choosing the right apps is essential. In this webinar, Blake Oliver, CPA, draws on his experience as a firm founder to guide you through the essential software that will streamline your operations, upgrade your client experience, and drive future growth. This session is designed to cut through the clutter of the ever-expanding app marketplace, providing you with a curated list of applications indispensable for modern accounting practices. Join us to discover how these apps can streamline your workflows, enhance your service delivery, and set your firm on a path to success.

(Originally recorded on March 6, 2024, on Earmark Webinars+)

Sponsor
Client Hub - https://earmarkcpe.promo/clienthub

• (00:00) - The 5 Apps You Need In Your Accounting Firm sequence
• (01:55) - Why Choosing the Right Software Matters
• (05:27) - Diving Deep into Proposal Management Software
• (14:08) - Workflow Apps: The Backbone of Firm Operations
• (29:08) - Exploring General Ledger Applications
• (31:07) - Optimizing Accounting Systems with FreshBooks and Xero
• (31:33) - Designing Your App Stack for Efficient Accounting
• (32:30) - Choosing the Right General Ledger Systems for Your Clients
• (33:02) - Streamlining Client Onboarding with a Standardized Tech Stack
• (34:28) - The Importance of Payroll Apps in Accounting Firms
• (35:04) - Exploring the Best Payroll Software Options
• (39:34) - Bill Pay Apps: Enhancing Client Services
• (43:39) - Integrating AI and ChatGPT into Your Accounting Firm
• (45:14) - Best Practices for App Integration and Tech Adoption
• (56:04) - Concluding Remarks and Next Steps for Your Firm

Download the Earmark CPE App
 
Apple: https://apps.apple.com/us/app/earmark-cpe/id1562599728

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Connect with Blake Oliver, CPA

LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/blaketoliver
Twitter: https://twitter.com/blaketoliver/

From tracking gambling sessions to offsetting winnings with losses, professional gamblers and enthusiasts alike need to know how to beat the house when it comes to taxes. Join Certified Public Accountant Zak Zimbile, owner of a remote CPA firm specializing in gambling taxation, as he breaks down federal and state requirements for reporting gambling income. Zak leverages his decade-plus of experience advising recreational and professional gamblers across the country to explain what counts as gambling income, how to properly track activity, when winnings must be reported, and how losses can be used to lower your tax bill. With insights ranging from tax forms to watch out for to foreign reporting requirements, this episode helps gamblers and tax professionals alike formulate strategies to minimize the house's take.

Sponsor
South Carolina Association of CPAs (SCACPA) - https://earmarkcpe.promo/scacpa

• (00:00) - Preview: How professional gamblers stay under the radar
• (00:57) - Earn Free CPE
• (01:18) - Welcome Zak to the show
• (03:31) - How did you get into this niche?
• (05:05) - What is considered gambling income?
• (06:36) - How do people keep track of all of their winnings and losings?
• (08:19) - How do you recommend your clients keep track of all of this?
• (11:03) - Why is it so important to track this data
• (15:10) - Do you direct your clients to any specific sites that keep good records of bets?
• (16:35) - Where does the IRS publish this information on gambling and sessions
• (19:08) - Why can a W-2G and tracking by session be beneficial?
• (22:24) - Do these tax laws apply the same for professional vs recreational gamblers? And lets talk a little more about how pros are defined
• (25:15) - How does the IRS treat gambling winnings on a tax return?
• (30:34) - Does the IRS push back on the professional vs amateur classification
• (31:59) - How do taxes vary state to state on gambling wins and loses
• (35:45) - Do you see gamblers relocating specifically for tax purposes?
• (37:51) - Has video game gambling taken off?
• (39:20) - Are there any other tax forms I may receive or deal with related to gambling?
• (44:24) - What do I need to know about gambling in a foreign country?
• (49:20) - What is your favorite and the hardest part about this niche?
• (53:03) - Wrap up and where to reach Zak

Download the Earmark CPE App
 
Apple: https://apps.apple.com/us/app/earmark-cpe/id1562599728

Android: https://play.google.com/store/apps/details?id=com.earmarkcpe.app

Connect with Our Guest, Zak Zimbile

Twitter: https://twitter.com/ZakTheCPA
LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/zachary-zimbile-cpa-5a4b2224/

Learn more about Zachary Zimbile, CPA

Website: https://www.zakthecpa.com/

Connect with Blake Oliver, CPA

LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/blaketoliver
Twitter: https://twitter.com/blaketoliver/

A message from our sponsor:

Are you already recommending QuickBooks to your clients? Get paid to recommend and implement QuickBooks! join Hector Garcia and the largest network of QuickBooks Solution Providers. Email hector@garciacpa.com for more information.

Connect with our guest, Hector Garcia, CPA.CITP:

Linkedin: https://www.linkedin.com/in/hectormgarciacpa/

Sign up to get free CPE for listening to this podcast:

https://earmarkcpe.com

Download the Earmark CPE App:
 
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Sign up to get free CPE for listening to this podcast

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Download the Earmark CPE App
 
Apple: https://apps.apple.com/us/app/earmark-cpe/id1562599728

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Connect with Our Guest, Todd Shapiro

LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/todd-shapiro-536b6b1/

Learn more about the Illinois CPA Society

Official website: https://community.icpas.org/home

Connect with Blake Oliver, CPA

LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/blaketoliver
Twitter: https://twitter.com/blaketoliver/

Ariel Menche recounts his FP&A journey - from his tenure with KPMG and the WWE, to FP&A consulting to startups. His strategic financial advisory story highlights valuable FP&A lessons, including insights about data's impact on a CFO's role and establishing best practices for financial model development.

Sponsor
Check out our Sponsor LiveFlow — Advanced Financial Reporting on Autopilot

Download the Earmark CPE App
 
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Chapters

• (00:00) - Strategic finance
• (00:45) - Earn Free CPE
• (01:07) - Welcome Ariel to the show
• (03:13) - How Ariel got into FP&A pro wrestling
• (09:15) - What did the financial models for the WWE look like?
• (13:20) - Tell me more about these sheets you created to keep track of accrued expenses
• (17:54) - What gave you the idea to do this?
• (19:51) - What did you do with your extra time?
• (20:50) - What were the most memorable KPIs at WWE?
• (24:35) - What's the difference between working for the WWE and now running FP&A for startups
• (34:17) - How did you learn how to build financial models? Do you have advice on how to start?
• (46:34) - What is your favorite type of business to model?
• (48:37) - Ariel shares an example where a formula works out that he wasn't sure about
• (51:45) - Do you have any advise for people who want to do what you do?
• (56:19) - Wrap up and where to reach Ariel
• (58:07) - Remember to go earn FREE CPE

Learn more about Raftel Strategy

https://raftelstrategy.com/

Connect with Blake Oliver, CPA

LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/blaketoliver
Twitter: https://twitter.com/blaketoliver/

Blake is joined by two "Young" CPAs, Hannah Hood, and Joey Kinney, both virtual CFOs with Summit Virtual CFO by Anders. Among the topics of discussion are challenges for young accountants including low starting salaries, lack of flexibility and career path at traditional firms, the value of remote work, and the need for more women leaders and work-life balance in the accounting industry. Hannah and Joey also promote changing the accounting profession to be more adaptable and inclusive.

Sponsor
ShareFile - https://earmarkcpe.promo/sharefile

• (00:49) - Welcome Hannah and Joey to the show
• (04:47) - Where are Hannah and Joey located?
• (07:12) - Hannah, what is it like being a virtual CFO?
• (09:16) - What kind of clients do you work with?
• (10:04) - Joey what is different about your job and clients?
• (13:30) - How did you learn to do forecasting
• (16:05) - Are accountants leaving the profession because of boredom?
• (19:49) - Joey can you tell us about how you set your own schedule with hours
• (22:14) - How is your pay determined?
• (29:46) - Summit allows you to work fully remote
• (33:43) - What do you think holds back most firms from making these types of shifts?
• (41:15) - How do we get higher starting salaries in accounting?
• (42:16) - How Hannah and Joey each got their 30 extra semester hours for CPA licensure
• (49:10) - Is the old promise of the accounting dream gone?
• (55:54) - What's one thing you would change about the accounting profession if you could change anything?
• (01:01:28) - Wrap up and how to listen to The Young CPA Success Show

Download the Earmark CPE App
 
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Connect with Our Guests

Hannah Hood

LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/hannah-hood-7a4740b2

Joey Kinney

LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/joey-kinney-cpa-60658188/

Learn more about Summit Virtual CFO by Anders

Website: https://www.summitcpa.net

Connect with Blake Oliver, CPA

LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/blaketoliver
Twitter: https://twitter.com/blaketoliver/

Sign up to get free CPE for listening to this podcast:

https://earmarkcpe.com

Download the Earmark CPE App:
 
Apple: https://apps.apple.com/us/app/earmark-cpe/id1562599728

Android:https://play.google.com/store/apps/details?id=com.earmarkcpe.app

Connect with Our Guest, Chad Davis

Company Profile: https://www.liveca.ca/team/chad-davis-cpa-cma
LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/chaddavis1/

Chad's Links:

Verizon Unlimited Hotspot: https://earmark.link/jxx
Mobile Internet Resource Center: https://www.rvmobileinternet.com/

Learn more about LiveCA
https://www.liveca.ca/nocode-development

Connect with Blake Oliver, CPA

LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/blaketoliver
Twitter: https://twitter.com/blaketoliver/

Major changes are afoot in the world of QuickBooks. QBO and Payroll prices are going up. Intuit is phasing out QuickBooks Desktop Pro while touting QuickBooks Online and Enterprise as the future, though Hector predicts Desktop will still have a 2024 edition. QBO Advanced still needs improvements, like reverting to a static navigation bar, and Hector is excited about new integrations with QuickBooks Checking. Tune in for insights from Hector Garcia, CPA, on the past, present, and future of Intuit’s small business accounting software.

Sponsor
South Carolina Association of CPAs (SCACPA) - https://earmarkcpe.promo/scacpa

• (00:00) - Quickbooks dropped the ball with QuickBooks Checking
• (00:57) - Earn Free CPE
• (01:18) - Welcome Hector back to the show
• (02:41) - QuickBook Online price changes
• (06:46) - How will Intuit make sure its LLM is learning the right things?
• (10:17) - What's new with QuickBooks Desktop Pro and Premier?
• (18:26) - Why can't QBO do better inventory and what apps do you recommend for inventory?
• (19:43) - Let's talk about QuickBooks Checking
• (27:25) - Are you recommending QuickBooks checking to clients? And what do they need to do to get to that point?
• (31:30) - Revisiting Hector's 2022 predictions for QuickBooks Desktop
• (33:06) - Some new features
• (37:41) - Hector's QuickBooks browser extension RightTool
• (40:44) - How do you protect client information in RightTool
• (42:12) - Hector sold his tax practice and he's having a conference in Miami
• (46:19) - We're launching a new QuickBooks podcast!

Download the Earmark CPE App
 
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Connect with Our Guest, Hector Garcia, CPA

LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/hectormgarciacpa/

Subscribe to updates about the Unofficial QuickBooks Podcast: http://eepurl.com/iw4kpE
Learn more about Hector's conference in Miami: https://altaccountant.com/creative/

Connect with Blake Oliver, CPA

LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/blaketoliver
Twitter: https://twitter.com/blaketoliver/

In this episode, Blake Oliver interviews Nicolas Boucher, one of LinkedIn's top finance thought leaders, who demonstrates how AI tools like ChatGPT and Python can dramatically accelerate financial data analysis and reporting while maintaining confidentiality. Nicolas shows how finance professionals can create instant analyses and dashboards, integrate AI with existing systems, and automate repetitive tasks to save time and advance their careers.

Chapters

• (00:00) - Nicolas Boucher's Journey and AI in Accounting
• (03:11) - Practical Applications of AI in Accounting
• (04:07) - Demonstration: Cohort Analysis with ChatGPT
• (08:56) - Challenges and Solutions with AI Tools
• (15:50) - Advanced Data Visualization with AI
• (22:52) - AI's Surprising Insight with Box Plots
• (25:48) - Integrating AI with Excel for Confidential Analysis
• (27:38) - Exploring AI Tools for Finance
• (28:46) - Concourse.io: Automating Monthly Financial Reports
• (33:04) - The Future of Finance Jobs with AI
• (45:02) - Nicolas Boucher's AI Resources and Community

Sign up to get free CPE for listening to this podcast

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https://earmark.app/

Download the Earmark CPE App
 
Apple: https://apps.apple.com/us/app/earmark-cpe/id1562599728

Android: https://play.google.com/store/apps/details?id=com.earmarkcpe.app

Connect with Blake Oliver, CPA

LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/blaketoliver
Twitter: https://twitter.com/blaketoliver/

Join Blake Oliver for a conversation with Lynnette Oss Connell and Craig Connell as they share their real-life journey of selling their Client Accounting Services (CAS) firm to a larger regional CPA firm. This webinar will explore the complexities and challenges of transitioning a boutique practice into a larger organization. Gain valuable insights on preparing for a sale, negotiating terms, and ensuring a smooth transition for your clients and team. Whether you're considering selling your firm now or in the future, this session offers actionable strategies and expert advice to help you navigate the process successfully.

(Originally recorded on August 27, 2024, on Earmark Webinars+)

Sponsor
MakersHub - https://earmarkcpe.promo/makershub

• (01:09) - Founding ClickPNW: Lynette and Craig's Journey
• (02:50) - Client Services and Growth Strategies
• (05:26) - Challenges and Successes in Client Management
• (09:28) - Deciding to Sell: Personal and Professional Factors
• (18:09) - Finding the Right Buyer: The Sweeney Conrad Story
• (31:39) - Transitioning to a New Firm
• (32:16) - Employee and Client Considerations and Unexpected Challenges
• (33:56) - Transitioning Staff and Clients
• (36:50) - Client Relationships and Retention
• (39:15) - Administrative Challenges
• (44:30) - Lessons Learned and Advice
• (55:15) - Future Plans and Reflections
• (59:41) - Conclusion and CPE Information

Download the Earmark CPE App
 
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Android: https://play.google.com/store/apps/details?id=com.earmarkcpe.app

Connect with Our Guests:

Lynnette Oss Connell
LinkedIn: http://linkedin.com/in/lynnette-oss-connell-cpa

Craig Connell
LinkedIn: http://www.linkedin.com/in/craigconnellcpa

Connect with Blake Oliver, CPA

LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/blaketoliver
Twitter: https://twitter.com/blaketoliver/

Sign up to get free CPE for listening to this podcast

https://earmarkcpe.com

Download the Earmark CPE App
 
Apple: https://apps.apple.com/us/app/earmark-cpe/id1562599728

Android: https://play.google.com/store/apps/details?id=com.earmarkcpe.app

Connect with Our Guests, Jay, and Rachel

Jay Kimelman

LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/jkimelman
The Digital CPA Website: https://thedigitalcpa.com/about-us/

Rachel Fisch

LinkedIn: https://ca.linkedin.com/in/rachelfisch
High Rock Accounting: https://highrock.co/

Connect with Blake Oliver, CPA

LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/blaketoliver
Twitter: https://twitter.com/blaketoliver/

Learn more about SoftLedger:
http://info.softledger.com/earmark

Earn free CPE for listening to this episode:
https://earmarkcpe.com

Download the Earmark CPE App:
Apple: https://apps.apple.com/us/app/earmark-cpe/id1562599728

Android: https://play.google.com/store/apps/details?id=com.earmarkcpe.app

Connect with Our Guest
Ben Taylor, CEO @ SoftLedger: https://www.linkedin.com/in/bentaylor8/

Connect with Blake Oliver, CPA
Linkedin: https://www.linkedin.com/in/blaketoliver
Twitter: https://twitter.com/blaketoliver/

What if the solution to accounting's talent shortage has been hiding in plain sight? In this episode, Navy veteran Mark Steinhoff reveals how the precision required to maintain life support systems on submarines directly translates to accounting excellence. Having managed critical oxygen systems hundreds of feet underwater, Mark now applies that same meticulous attention to detail as an accountant for a water utility. With the profession facing a 70,000-person annual deficit while 200,000 service members transition to civilian life each year, discover how military experience with procedures, documentation, and quality assurance creates natural accounting professionals—and why veterans might be the untapped talent pool accounting desperately needs.

Chapters

• (01:09) - Transitioning from Military to Accounting
• (02:37) - Similarities Between Military and Accounting
• (05:46) - Life on a Submarine
• (11:31) - How Did Working On a Sub Translate to Accounting
• (16:43) - The Procedure is Not Optional
• (20:50) - Current Role and Future Aspirations
• (24:30) - Exploring Career Paths in Accounting
• (24:53) - Transitioning from Military to Accounting
• (26:31) - Leveraging the GI Bill for Education
• (26:44) - Navigating the Pandemic and Career Decisions
• (28:36) - The Value of a Business Degree
• (29:08) - Balancing Education and Personal Life
• (30:53) - Gaining Practical Experience in Accounting
• (32:23) - Pursuing an MBA and CPA
• (45:24) - The Evolving Role of Accountants
• (47:01) - Closing Thoughts and Encouragement

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Connect with Our Guest, Mark Steinhoff

LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/marknsteinhoff/

Connect with Blake Oliver, CPA

LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/blaketoliver
Twitter: https://twitter.com/blaketoliver/

Many thanks to our sponsor, LiveFlow!
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Sign up to get free CPE for listening to this podcast
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Connect with Korey Cournoyer
LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/koreycournoyer/

Learn more about GrowthLab Financial
Website: http://growthlabfinancial.com

Connect with Blake Oliver, CPA
LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/blaketoliver
Twitter: https://twitter.com/blaketoliver/

What if the numbers we use to measure audit quality are fundamentally flawed? PCAOB Board Member Christina Ho reveals why the headline-grabbing 46% deficiency rate in public company audits deserves serious scrutiny. In this candid conversation, Ho explains why smaller audit firms face disproportionate regulatory burdens, how the PCAOB's inspection approach may distort quality metrics, and why less than 5% of "deficient" audits result in incorrect opinions. She also shares her experience of being publicly criticized by Senator Elizabeth Warren for challenging the status quo. Whether you're an auditor, investor, or financial professional, this insider perspective will transform how you interpret future audit quality statistics.

Chapters

• (00:58) - Explaining the PCAOB
• (01:59) - Inspection and Enforcement Programs
• (03:53) - Sampling and Inspection Frequency
• (05:58) - Challenges for Smaller Audit Firms
• (10:50) - State of Audit Quality
• (14:03) - Deficiency Rates and Their Implications
• (31:34) - PCAOB's Role and Accountability
• (37:11) - Has the PCAOB Improved Audit Quality?
• (49:23) - Public Dispute with Senators
• (54:32) - Conclusion and Final Thoughts

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Connect with Our Guest, Christina Ho

https://pcaobus.org/about/the-board/board-bios/christina-ho

Connect with Blake Oliver, CPA

LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/blaketoliver
Twitter: https://twitter.com/blaketoliver/

Sponsor
Thank you to our sponsor, FreshBooks! Learn more at https://www.freshbooks.com/accountants

Guests
Kristen Keats, CPA: https://www.linkedin.com/in/kristenkeats/
Owner, Sherwood Tax & Accounting, Founder and Chief Executive Officer at Breakaway Bookkeeping & Advising

Twyla Verhelst, CPA: https://www.linkedin.com/in/twylav/
Head of FreshBooks Accountant Channel & Leader of the Accounting Partner Program | Creator of the Women in Accounting Mentorship Program

Join Blake Oliver as he interviews Yuri Kapilovich, a CPA who's cracked the code on balancing work and life in accounting. Discover how Yuri maintains a thriving practice while working just 10-15 hours per week outside tax season and a maximum of 40 hours during crunch time. Learn actionable strategies for setting the right fees, optimizing workflows, and prioritizing fun and family without sacrificing success. Yuri will share his insights on transforming accounting from a grueling profession into an enjoyable and rewarding career. This webinar will equip you with practical tools to revolutionize your work-life balance and rediscover the joy in accounting. Don’t miss this opportunity to make your career more fulfilling and efficient!

(Originally recorded on December 4, 2024, on Earmark Webinars+)

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• (00:00) - Planning Babies Around Tax Season
• (01:11) - Introducing Yuri Kapilovich, The Fun CPA
• (03:07) - Yuri's Journey Through Multiple Firms
• (03:32) - The Reality of Billable Hours
• (09:27) - Leaving Public Accounting to Start a Firm
• (12:12) - Overcoming Fear and Building a Practice
• (17:20) - The Fun CPA Brand and Networking
• (24:50) - Selecting the Right Clients for a Lifestyle Firm
• (32:27) - Realistic Client Time Management
• (33:28) - Building a High-Value Client Base
• (34:22) - Setting and Communicating Fees
• (35:23) - The Value of Selective Clientele
• (40:28) - Quarterly and Monthly Packages
• (43:27) - Solo Practice vs. Building a Team
• (47:19) - Financial Transparency and Career Choices
• (52:11) - The True Cost of High Salaries
• (59:31) - Navigating the Accounting Profession
• (01:02:19) - Final Thoughts and Resources

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Connect with Our Guest, Yuri Kapilovich
LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/ykapilovich/

Learn more about The Fun CPA
https://www.thefuncpa.co/

Connect with Blake Oliver, CPA
LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/blaketoliver
Twitter: https://twitter.com/blaketoliver/

Thanks to our sponsor, Accountests for making this episode possible!

To learn more about Accountests, visit: https://earmarkcpe.promo/accountests

Sign up to get free CPE for listening to this podcast

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Download the Earmark CPE App
 
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Connect with Our Guest, Sandra York

LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/sandra-york-551baa84/
Follow Sandi on Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/fitmoneycoach/

Learn more about Fit Money Coach

Website: http://fitmoneycoach.com

Connect with Blake Oliver, CPA

LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/blaketoliver
Twitter: https://twitter.com/blaketoliver/

Join Blake Oliver, CPA, and Scott Hodge, President Emeritus and Senior Policy Advisor at the Tax Foundation, for an engaging and insightful webinar that delves into the complexities of tax policy as discussed in Scott's new book, "Taxocracy." Discover how tax policies impact everyday expenses like housing, healthcare, and education, and learn surprising historical tax facts such as the 18th-century British “window tax” and its relevance to today's proposed wealth taxes.

(Originally recorded on July 25, 2024, on Earmark Webinars+)

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• (00:46) - Introducing 'Taxocracy'
• (04:10) - Education and Tuition Costs
• (11:24) - Principles of Tax Policy
• (15:27) - Corporate Tax Rates Debate
• (24:23) - Tariffs and Economic Impact
• (29:42) - Impact of Trade Wars on Consumer Goods
• (31:03) - Tax Policies and Their Consequences
• (34:28) - Unintended Consequences of Tax Policies
• (36:57) - Creative Tax Avoidance Strategies
• (40:10) - The Role and History of the Tax Foundation
• (44:13) - Challenges and Future of Tax Reform
• (51:59) - Global Tax Systems and Their Benefits
• (53:58) - Conclusion and Final Thoughts

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Connect with Our Guest, Scott Hodge

LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/scottahodge/

Connect with Blake Oliver, CPA

LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/blaketoliver
Twitter: https://twitter.com/blaketoliver/

Jerry Maginnis has over 40 years of experience in the accounting profession. In this episode, he shares his journey from college student to managing partner at KPMG, offering advice to young accountants on how to build a successful career. Jerry emphasizes the importance of soft skills like communication, empathy, and relationship-building, arguing that technical expertise alone is not enough. He shares how to navigate busy season without burning out, urging accountants to speak up about their personal commitments. Jerry also shares tips on expanding your business acumen, stressing the need to deeply understand a client’s strategy and industry. We also reflect on lessons learned, and why young accountants need to allocate time to networking and relationship-building earlier in their careers. Finally, Jerry weighs the pros and cons of different career paths, while emphasizing the need to find the right fit based on your personality and interests. Whether you’re a student or young professional, this episode offers indispensable guidance to maximize your career as an accountant.

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• (01:14) - Welcome Jerry Maginnis to the show
• (02:36) - How Jerry got started in accounting
• (05:04) - What inspired you to write this book?
• (09:12) - What are some of the biggest mistakes that you see young professionals making early in their careers and how can they avoid those pitfalls?
• (16:06) - What's the best way for a staff accountant to make the partners happy when it comes to busy season?
• (18:27) - What is the difference between a great employee and an average one?
• (20:27) - Why are soft skills so important for accountants these days?
• (24:20) - When have you used soft skills in your career?
• (30:21) - Honesty is the best policy
• (33:50) - How important is business development to making partner and do I need to know how to golf?
• (36:42) - How did you learn to bring in business for the firm?
• (41:19) - What parts of accounting are in demand right now for college students?
• (44:28) - How can students and professionals prepare for AI emerging into the workspace?
• (50:46) - How would you advise a student on which career path to take out of college?
• (56:57) - What do you know now that you wish you knew at the start of your career?
• (59:53) - How to Earn FREE CPE

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Connect with Our Guest

Jerry Maginnis
LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/jerry-maginnis-18a47813/

Read Jerry's book, Advice for a Successful Career in the Accounting Profession: How to Make Your Assets Greatly Exceed Your Liabilities: https://a.co/d/azkmFmO

Connect with Blake Oliver, CPA

LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/blaketoliver
Twitter: https://twitter.com/blaketoliver/

Sign up to get free CPE for listening to this podcast

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Download the Earmark CPE App
 
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Connect with Michael on LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/michaelly/
Learn more about Reconciled: https://reconciled.com/

Connect with Blake Oliver, CPA

LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/blaketoliver
Twitter: https://twitter.com/blaketoliver/

Sign up to get free CPE for listening to this podcast:

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Download the Earmark CPE App:
 
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Connect with Our Guest, Ron Baker

LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/ronbaker1/

Learn more about VeraSage Institute

Website: https://www.verasage.com/

Have a listen to The Soul of Enterprise

https://www.thesoulofenterprise.com

Show Notes: 

Mind Over Matter: Why Intellectual Capital is the Chief Source of Wealth
https://www.amazon.com/Mind-Over-Matter-Intellectual-Capital/dp/0470053615

Lies, Damned Lies, and Cost Accounting
https://www.cpajournal.com/2018/12/07/lies-damned-lies-and-cost-accounting/

CPA.com CAS Benchmark Survey

CAS_Survey_211013 Final.pdf

Connect with Blake Oliver, CPA

LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/blaketoliver
Twitter: https://twitter.com/blaketoliver/

Our Guest
Charles Weinstein, CEO @ Eisner Advisory Group LLC
https://www.linkedin.com/in/charles-weinstein-7b595543/

Noah Buxton, CEO of The Network Firm, returns to continue the conversation on the evolving world of digital assets. Blake and Noah examine how digital assets have expanded beyond cryptocurrencies to include tokenized real-world assets like real estate and commodities. Noah explains how blockchain technology could revolutionize asset trading and ownership verification and dives into "proof of reserves" reports, highlighting both the importance and current limitations of these reports in protecting investors. He also shares some insights into the growing opportunities for CPAs in the digital asset space, including how firms can develop expertise in blockchain attestation services.

Chapters

• (01:12) - Exploring the Digital Assets Space
• (03:47) - Tokenization of Real-World Assets
• (06:21) - Benefits and Challenges of Tokenization
• (12:37) - Real-World Examples and Case Studies
• (17:30) - The Role of CPA Firms in Digital Assets
• (20:24) - Regulatory Landscape and Proof of Reserves
• (27:58) - Explaining Proof of Reserves
• (32:34) - Comparing Proof of Reserves and Traditional Audits
• (36:25) - The Importance of Proof of Reserves
• (42:34) - Regulatory Landscape and Proof of Reserves
• (47:20) - Opportunities for CPAs in Crypto Auditing
• (50:38) - Introducing Ledger Lens for CPAs
• (53:01) - Conclusion and Contact Information

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Connect with Our Guest, Noah Buxton

LinkedIn: http://linkedin.com/in/noahbuxton

Learn more about The Network Firm

Website: https://www.thenetworkfirm.com/about-us

Connect with Blake Oliver, CPA

LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/blaketoliver
Twitter: https://twitter.com/blaketoliver/

Thank you to our sponsors
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BooksTime: https://www.bookstime.com/accountants

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Connect with Our Guest, Brandon Hall
LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/brandonhallcpa/

Learn more about Hall CPA PLLC
Company website: https://www.therealestatecpa.com/

Connect with Blake Oliver, CPA
LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/blaketoliver
Twitter: https://twitter.com/blaketoliver/

Sign up to get free CPE for listening to this podcast:
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Connect with Our Guests
Sue Coffey, CPA, CGMA
Chief Executive Officer - Public Accounting at Association of International Certified Professional Accountants
https://www.linkedin.com/in/susan-s-coffey-cpa-cgma-7b26a68/

Tom Hood, CPA, CITP, CGMA
EVP Business Engagement & Growth at Association of International Certified Professional Accountants
https://www.linkedin.com/in/tomhood/

Learn more about the AICPA
https://www.aicpa.org/home

Connect with Blake Oliver, CPA
 
Linkedin: https://www.linkedin.com/in/blaketoliver
Twitter: https://twitter.com/blaketoliver/

Many thanks to our sponsor, LiveFlow!
To learn more about LiveFlow, visit https://earmarkcpe.promo/liveflow

Sign up to get free CPE for listening to this podcast
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Download the Earmark CPE App
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Connect with Our Guest, Michael Alliman
LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/michaelalliman/

Learn more about Michael's firm: https://www.allimanbusinessgroup.com/

Connect with Blake Oliver, CPA
LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/blaketoliver
Twitter: https://twitter.com/blaketoliver/

Sign up to get free CPE for listening to this podcast
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Download the Earmark CPE App
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Connect with Peter Wen
LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/peterwen/

Learn more about Tallyfor
http://tallyfor.com

Connect with Blake Oliver, CPA
LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/blaketoliver
Twitter: https://twitter.com/blaketoliver/

Sponsors

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Presentation slides:

https://earmarkcpe.com/wp-content/uploads/2022/05/Communicating-Financial-Results-to-Normal-People.pdf

Connect with Our Guest, Geni Whitehouse

LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/evenanerd
Twitter: https://twitter.com/evenanerd

Learn more about Geni's work:

Official website for Impactful Advisor: https://theimpactfuladvisor.com/
Official website for Even a Nerd Can Be Heard: http://www.evenanerd.com/

Connect with Blake Oliver, CPA

LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/blaketoliver
Twitter: https://twitter.com/blaketoliver/

Thank you to our sponsors!

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Get 20% off your first 3 months of LiveFlow: https://www.liveflow.io/earmark

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Connect with Our Guest, Dan Gertrudes
LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/danielgertrudes
Twitter: https://twitter.com/dangertrudes

Learn more about GrowthLab:
Website: https://www.growthlabfinancial.com/

Connect with Blake Oliver, CPA:
LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/blaketoliver
Twitter: https://twitter.com/blaketoliver/

Jody Grunden, the founder of Summit CPA Group, was a trailblazer in establishing one of the first CPA firms specializing in virtual CFO services. They recently achieved an impressive $10 million in revenue. What propelled Jody's success? The key lies in his commitment to regular client meetings. In this enlightening discussion, Jody unveils his strategy of revolutionizing client relationships by transitioning from traditional monthly engagements to weekly touchpoints. Tune in now to unlock the potential of this simple yet transformative shift, enabling you to enhance your advisory services and propel your firm's growth to new heights.

Sponsor
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• (00:00) - Welcome To The Earmark Podcast
• (01:24) - What inspired Jody to start his firm, and how did he start doing CFO work and not just compliance?
• (06:10) - Jody wanted to find what his firm could change from the traditional model
• (13:09) - Automatically charging clients for your services
• (20:00) - What do you do for a typical client?
• (32:02) - The importance of having a dynamic forecast
• (35:14) - Where did you learn to do this driver based modeling?
• (37:04) - How do you staff these engagements?
• (42:57) - Only do tax returns for clients you do the books for
• (44:11) - How did you get into doing remote work?
• (51:12) - Jody has always invested in marketing and now content
• (55:02) - What made you choose Anders over other firm merger possibilities?
• (58:12) - Jody's 5 requirements for selling or merging his firm
• (01:06:09) - Wrap up and where people can learn about Summit and find Jody online

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Connect with Our Guest,  Jody Grundon

LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/jodygrunden
Website: https://www.summitcpa.net/

Connect with Blake Oliver, CPA

LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/blaketoliver
Twitter: https://twitter.com/blaketoliver/

Thank you to our sponsors!

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Get 20% off your first 3 months of LiveFlow: https://www.liveflow.io/earmark

Sign up to get free CPE for listening to this podcast:
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Connect with Our Guest, Dan Gertrudes
LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/danielgertrudes
Twitter: https://twitter.com/dangertrudes

Learn more about GrowthLab:
Website: https://www.growthlabfinancial.com/

Connect with Blake Oliver, CPA:
LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/blaketoliver
Twitter: https://twitter.com/blaketoliver/

Follow the journey of Keeley Favoino, CPA, from her background in accounting at various organizations, including EY, Starbucks, OfferUp, and Farmer's Fridge, before joining Foxtrot, a modern corner store concept. Foxtrot's accounting department was initially focused on bookkeeping, but as the company grew, so did the need for a more robust accounting system. Keeley led the transformation from cash basis accounting to GAAP financials using QuickBooks Online, creating streamlined processes and establishing communication channels between departments. As Foxtrot continued to expand, Keeley and her team decided to upgrade to NetSuite, a platform that could better handle their reporting needs and integrate well with their existing tech stack.

Sponsor
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Download the Earmark CPE App
 
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Chapters

• (00:22) - Preview: Being curious and finding the right fit
• (01:27) - Earn Free CPE
• (01:48) - Welcome Keeley to the show, and please tell us about FoxTrot
• (06:11) - What did Foxtrot look like in the beginning?
• (09:02) - What did the accounting team look like when you joined?
• (12:24) - How did you start working with startups?
• (25:26) - What came after OfferUp?
• (32:33) - Walk us through your moves with setting up systems
• (46:45) - What were your next steps and systems you implemented
• (49:15) - How did you pick your ERP system?
• (50:52) - What is a 4-4-5 Calendar
• (01:01:58) - What is your favorite thing about NetSuite?
• (01:10:22) - What is next for Keeley?
• (01:12:18) - What advice would you give to a young public accountant that is interested in startups?
• (01:16:04) - Wrap up and how to connect with Keeley

Connect with Our Guest, Keeley Favoino

LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/keeley-favoino/

Learn more about Foxtrot

https://foxtrotco.com/

Connect with Blake Oliver, CPA

LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/blaketoliver
Twitter: https://twitter.com/blaketoliver/

Rob Valdez joins Blake to discuss how artificial intelligence and generative chatbots like ChatGPT could automate routine audit tasks. They also explore the potential to train staff more effectively, save significant time on substantive testing, draft higher quality work, and some challenges around adopting these tools, such as security fears, poor system integration, and partners resistant to change.

Sponsor
ShareFile - https://earmarkcpe.promo/sharefile

• (00:53) - Rob Valdez Joins the Show to Talk About AI
• (02:27) - What Does Rob Do and What Is His Background?
• (03:35) - State of Artificial Intelligence in Audit
• (05:21) - Exploring the Use of AI Chatbots
• (08:55) - Potential of AI in Drafting Financial Statements
• (12:16) - The Future of AI with Audit
• (23:41) - Implications of AI on Audit Staff Roles
• (29:14) - The Power of Automation and Teamwork
• (31:00) - Challenges in Adopting AI in Firms
• (33:36) - The Inefficiencies of Current Data Management
• (35:53) - The Need for Integrated Systems
• (39:40) - What Will Motivate Aduit Firms To Adapt?
• (49:04) - The Possibility of Private Equity Getting Involved
• (53:30) - The Importance of Self-Disruption
• (54:59) - Thanks For Listening and How To Reach Rob

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Connect with Our Guest, Rob Valdez

LinkedIn: https://linkedin.com/in/rob-valdez
Twitter: https://twitter.com/robvaldezcpa

Learn more about Novogradac

Website: https://www.novoco.com/

Connect with Blake Oliver, CPA

LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/blaketoliver
Twitter: https://twitter.com/blaketoliver/

Our Sponsor
To learn more about how Practice Ignition can help your firm eliminate accounts receivable and for 50% off your first three months, visit https://earmarkcpe.com/pi

Our Guest
Josh Lance, CPA, CGMA on Linkedin: https://www.linkedin.com/in/joshualancecpa/

Sign up to get free CPE for listening to this podcast
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Connect with Our Guests

John Rea
LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/john-rea-04553013/
Twitter: https://mobile.twitter.com/johnrea88

Learn how Scrutinize helps accounting and bookkeeping firms close client books faster and more accurately: https://www.scrutinize.io/

Rachel Fisch
LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/rachelfisch/
Twitter: https://twitter.com/Fischbooks

Learn more about RealtyTax: https://realtytax.ca/

Connect with Blake Oliver, CPA
LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/blaketoliver
Twitter: https://twitter.com/blaketoliver/

Thanks to our Sponsors:
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Connect with our guest :  Eric Fraint - President and Founder of Your Part-Time Controller, LLC
LinkedIn : https://www.linkedin.com/in/yourparttimecontroller/

Learn more about Your Part-Time Controller :
https://www.yptc.com/

Connect with Blake Oliver, CPA
LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/blaketoliver
Twitter: https://twitter.com/blaketoliver/

Thanks to our sponsor, Avise!
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Sign up to get free CPE for listening to this podcast
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Download the Earmark CPE App
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Connect with Graham Stanton
LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/grahamstanton/

Learn more about Avise: https://avise.com

Connect with Blake Oliver, CPA
LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/blaketoliver
Twitter: https://twitter.com/blaketoliver/

Blake Oliver is joined by Ben Sutton, the founder of Mazuma. Mazuma offers core monthly bookkeeping services, reconciliations, basic financials, and tax returns for a flat fee of $180 per month. Ben believes small businesses need services traditional accounting firms don't provide, and he wanted to give them the support they need. He found it possible to offer bookkeeping services at a low cost, as long as the scope of services and what clients can and cannot do is carefully limited.

Many thanks to our sponsor, LiveFlow!
To learn more about LiveFlow, visit https://earmarkcpe.promo/liveflow

Download the Earmark CPE App
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• (00:00) - Episode 40
• (01:30) - Background on Ben Sutton
• (11:26) - What deliverables do you send your clients each month or quarter?
• (16:34) - Do you have a niche that you specialize in?
• (22:14) - Where are your employees located?
• (27:14) - What is your typical technology stack for clients?
• (40:21) - What tax software do you use?
• (49:50) - How many clients do you have per bookkeeper?
• (52:45) - How are continuing to grow your business?
• (55:24) - BONUS: Opinions on CPE
• (58:43) - How to connect with Ben

Learn more about Mazuma
Website: http://mazumausa.com

Connect with Blake Oliver, CPA
LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/blaketoliver
Twitter: https://twitter.com/blaketoliver/

Sign up to get free CPE for listening to this podcast

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Download the Earmark CPE App
 
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Connect with Our Guest, Isaac Heller

LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/isaacheller/

Learn more about Trullion

https://trullion.com/about-us/

Connect with Blake Oliver, CPA

LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/blaketoliver
Twitter: https://twitter.com/blaketoliver/

Blake discusses the intricacies of property tax assessments and appeals with Josh Malancuk, President and Founder of JM Tax Advocates. Josh explains how his firm helps businesses minimize their property tax liabilities by providing a more accurate market value for their properties, which often differs from the assessor's valuation. He walks through the appeal process, the importance of meeting deadlines, and shares a case study where his firm saved a client millions of dollars in property taxes.

Sponsor
MakersHub - https://earmarkcpe.promo/makershub

• (01:04) - Meet Josh Malancuk: Property Tax Specialist
• (02:09) - The Importance of Property Tax Specialization
• (06:07) - Understanding Property Tax Assessments
• (09:06) - The Appeal Process Explained
• (16:12) - Appealing an Asset Value
• (23:49) - What Is It Like Making an Appeal?
• (32:58) - Case Study: Mega Food Processor
• (40:36) - How to Work with JM Tax Advocates
• (45:10) - Advice for Aspiring Property Tax Specialists
• (46:41) - Conclusion and Contact Information

Download the Earmark CPE App
 
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Connect with Our Guest, Josh Malancuk, CPA, CMI
LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/josh-malancuk-cpa-cmi-a5997619/

Learn more about JM Tax Advocates
https://jmtaxadvocates.com/

Connect with Blake Oliver, CPA

LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/blaketoliver
Twitter: https://twitter.com/blaketoliver/

John Briggs, founder of Incite Tax and author of "The 3.3 Rule" joins Blake to explain his approach to ending burnout in accounting while increasing productivity, which involves working for up to three hours followed by a 30% recovery period. They explore how this method can double productivity compared to the traditional 8-hour workday, and John provides practical tips for implementing it in accounting firms.

Sponsor
MakersHub - https://earmarkcpe.promo/makershub

• (00:38) - Introducing John Briggs and the 3.3 Rule
• (04:50) - Applying the 3.3 Rule in Accounting
• (05:12) - John's Journey: From Deloitte to Insight Tax
• (07:04) - Challenges and Solutions in Modern Accounting Firms
• (11:42) - The Problem with Billable Hours
• (22:19) - The Benefits of Structured Breaks
• (25:07) - Being a Controller at Atlas
• (27:29) - The Reality of Top 100 Firms and Work-Life Balance
• (29:18) - AI's Impact on Consulting and Accounting
• (30:31) - The Future of Work Hours and Technology
• (33:57) - Balancing Work, Health, and Personal Life
• (39:05) - Measuring Productivity Beyond Hours Worked
• (46:35) - Final Thoughts and Where to Find More Information

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Connect with Our Guest, John Briggs

LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/johnbriggscpa/

Learn more about Incite Tax & Accounting

Website: https://incitetax.com/

Connect with Blake Oliver, CPA

LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/blaketoliver
Twitter: https://twitter.com/blaketoliver/

Erica Goode, CPA, reveals how she built a thriving $200K accounting firm working just 15 hours a week. Discover the power of niching, efficient processes, and work-life balance in this candid discussion. Erica will share her journey from corporate burnout to entrepreneurial success, offering practical insights on pricing strategies, time management, and building authority in your niche. Whether you're considering starting your own firm or optimizing your existing practice, this webinar will inspire and equip you to reimagine what's possible in your accounting career.

(Originally recorded on October 16, 2024, on Earmark Webinars+)

Sponsor
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Show Notes

The 15-Hour Accounting eBook:
https://mailchi.mp/ericagoode/15-hr-accountant-ebook

Chapters

• (02:39) - Welcome Erica to the Show
• (04:55) - Transition from Corporate to Entrepreneurship
• (06:28) - Life in Idaho and Outdoor Activities
• (08:06) - Burnout and Decision to Leave Corporate
• (11:12) - Starting the Accounting Firm
• (19:20) - Client Growth and Service Tiers
• (30:23) - Systematizing CFO Services
• (32:37) - Client Report Preparation and Meetings
• (33:25) - Listener Question: Monthly Meeting Agenda
• (35:03) - Forecasting and Cash Flow Discussions
• (37:46) - The Value of Monthly Meetings
• (38:55) - Balancing Work and Client Relationships
• (39:51) - Handling Client Taxes and Referrals
• (41:27) - Marketing and Client Acquisition
• (44:34) - Podcasting and Providing Free Advice
• (48:39) - Scaling a Solo Practice
• (50:34) - Balancing Work and Personal Life
• (59:41) - Final Thoughts and Resources

Download the Earmark CPE App
 
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Connect with Our Guest, Erica Goode

LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/erica-goode-cpa-00205616/

Connect with Blake Oliver, CPA

LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/blaketoliver
Twitter: https://twitter.com/blaketoliver/

Blake is joined by Twyla Verhelst, Head of Accountant Channel at FreshBooks, to discuss a groundbreaking concept in advisory known as "Collaborative Accounting." This innovative approach aims to enhance collaboration between accountants and clients by providing a platform for efficient financial management. They delve into various aspects of this new approach, including FreshBooks' certification program, dedicated support for accounting partners, and a community for accountants to exchange best practices and insights. Prepare to be inspired by the transformative power of Collaborative Accounting!

Sponsor
FreshBooks - https://earmarkcpe.promo/freshbooks

Chapters

• (00:19) - Earn Free CPE
• (01:02) - Welcome Twyla Verhelst to the show
• (08:02) - How do you make advisory services efficient?
• (11:54) - What is "collaborative accounting"?
• (14:10) - Who are we collaborating with?
• (19:28) - Can you give us an example of this?
• (24:13) - How do we make the time for this when we're so busy helping with clients with other problems?
• (35:54) - Why clients are seeking financial advice elsewhere
• (39:36) - What is FreshBooks doing to help make collaborative advisory possible?
• (45:08) - FreshBooks has top-notch support
• (46:01) - Community partnership is a huge part of this
• (47:10) - Wrap up and where to learn more about FreshBooks
• (50:32) - Remember to Earn Free CPE by listening to this Episode

Download the Earmark CPE App
 
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Connect with Our Guest, Twyla Verhelst

LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/twylav/?originalSubdomain=ca
Twitter: https://twitter.com/TwylaVerhelst
Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/thattwylagirl/?hl=en

Learn more about FreshBooks:

Website: https://www.freshbooks.com/

Connect with Blake Oliver, CPA

LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/blaketoliver
Twitter: https://twitter.com/blaketoliver/

Phong Ngo and Charley Howe join Blake to discuss how their accounts payable automation software is helping small and mid-sized manufacturers, construction companies, and other businesses capture detailed invoice data to enable precise job costing and reporting without expensive ERP implementations. Learn how starting with solving the accounts payable data entry pain point allows them to streamline workflows while accounting firms and their clients gain efficiency. They also highlight the benefits of the MakersHub partner program for accountants.

Sponsor
MakersHub - https://earmarkcpe.promo/makershub

• (00:00) - Solving Accounts Payable Pain Points with MakersHub
• (00:53) - Welcome Charley and Phong from MakersHub to the show
• (01:14) - What makes MakersHub different from other AP solutions?
• (05:16) - The power of MakersHub's proprietary technology
• (06:18) - Phong's journey from engineering to business
• (09:14) - The limitations of solutions already on the market
• (12:13) - The vision for MakersHub
• (14:58) - Charley's journey from banking to startups
• (20:13) - The evolution of MakersHub
• (26:36) - Solving at the build level first
• (34:29) - Which accountants and bookkeepers is MakersHub For?
• (38:54) - Creating a product that creates value for accounting firms
• (44:21) - How does an accountant or firm get started with MakersHub?
• (46:49) - Thanks for listening and please reach out to learn more

Download the Earmark CPE App
 
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Android: https://play.google.com/store/apps/details?id=com.earmarkcpe.app

Connect with Our Guests:

Charley Howe

LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/charles-howe-7a9816118
Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/MakersHub.aiOfficial/

Phong Ngo

LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/phong-ngo

Learn more about MakersHub

Website: http://www.discover.makershub.ai/

Connect with Blake Oliver, CPA

LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/blaketoliver
Twitter: https://twitter.com/blaketoliver/

Sign up to get free CPE for listening to this podcast:

https://earmarkcpe.com/

Download the Earmark CPE app here:

Apple: https://apps.apple.com/us/app/earmark-cpe/id1562599728
Android: https://play.google.com/store/apps/details?id=com.earmarkcpe.app

Connect with Our Guests:

Liz Mason, Founder,  and CEO of High Rock Accounting
https://www.linkedin.com/in/masonliz/

Rachel Fisch, CPB, Chief Global Development Officer, High Rock Accounting
https://www.linkedin.com/in/rachelfisch/?originalSubdomain=ca

Megan Genest Tarnow, Industry Lead, Nonprofit
https://www.linkedin.com/in/megantarnow/

Learn more about High Rock Accounting:

https://highrock.co/

Connect with Blake Oliver, CPA
Linkedin: https://www.linkedin.com/in/blaketoliver
Twitter: https://twitter.com/blaketoliver/

Kick-start a new era in accountancy with Alan Whitman, the former CEO of Baker Tilly US. Using his invaluable experience as a CEO for nearly 8 years, Alan will share novel insights on transforming traditional CPA firms into modern, sustainable, and innovative powerhouses. This session delves into people development, strategic growth, service models, and methods for breaking from long-standing conventions that hinder progression. It's time to BREAK THE MOLD (TM) and lead the transition toward the future of professional services and the CPA industry. If that's your ambition, this session was designed with you in mind.

(Originally recorded on May 8, 2024, on Earmark Webinars+)

Sponsor
ShareFile - https://earmarkcpe.promo/sharefile

• (01:48) - Alan Whitman's Journey to CEO
• (03:32) - Breaking the Mold in CPA Firms
• (07:06) - Challenges of Traditional Models
• (16:48) - Ethics and Systemic Issues in Accounting
• (18:37) - Advising Firms on New Business Models
• (25:46) - Developing and Retaining Talent
• (29:33) - Navigating the Future of Advisory Firms
• (32:44) - Transforming the Practice: Multidisciplinary Approach
• (34:22) - Building Businesses Within a Business
• (37:40) - Journey to CEO: Building International
• (40:41) - Rebranding and Global Expansion
• (42:00) - The Importance of Branding in Professional Services
• (42:55) - Recruitment and Retention Challenges
• (46:52) - Education and Training in Accounting
• (50:29) - The Future of the Accounting Profession
• (01:00:50) - Final Thoughts and Advice for Firm Owners

Download the Earmark CPE App
 
Apple: https://apps.apple.com/us/app/earmark-cpe/id1562599728

Android: https://play.google.com/store/apps/details?id=com.earmarkcpe.app

Connect with Our Guest, Alan Whitman
LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/alan-whitman-357ab91/

Connect with Blake Oliver, CPA

LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/blaketoliver
Twitter: https://twitter.com/blaketoliver/

Thank you to our sponsors!

Botkeeper
Win a free year of Botkeeper services!: https://www.botkeeper.com/win

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Get 20% off your first 3 months of LiveFlow: https://www.liveflow.io/earmark

Sign up to get free CPE for listening to this podcast:
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Download the Earmark CPE App:
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Connect with Our Guest, Dan Gertrudes
LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/danielgertrudes
Twitter: https://twitter.com/dangertrudes

Learn more about GrowthLab:
Website: https://www.growthlabfinancial.com/

Connect with Blake Oliver, CPA:
LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/blaketoliver
Twitter: https://twitter.com/blaketoliver/

Blake chats with Brandt Kucharski, former chief accounting officer at GrubHub and current CAO at Ethos Life, about his career journey from public accounting to leading startups through IPOs. They discuss Brandt's pivotal role in taking GrubHub public as one of the first "unicorn" startups, the process of scaling accounting teams and controls, nonprofit work with the Holiday Heroes Foundation, and thoughts on increasing accounting talent amid growing complexity.

Sponsor
ShareFile - https://earmarkcpe.promo/sharefile

• (01:06) - Welcome Brandt Kurcharski to the show
• (02:37) - Early Career and Joining GrubHub
• (05:07) - What was the first thing you did at GrubHub?
• (05:41) - The Journey to IPO
• (09:51) - What advice would you give a young controller going through an IPO
• (11:29) - Let's talk about GrubHub's tech stack at the time
• (15:26) - Building the Accounting Team at GrubHub
• (18:03) - The smartest thing you did at GrubHub
• (23:56) - Reflection on GrubHub's Success
• (25:21) - Biggest mistake you made at GrubHub
• (26:47) - Size of Your Accounting Team
• (29:03) - The Merger with Seamless and Going Public Again
• (31:09) - Let's talk Sarbanes-Oxley
• (34:47) - The Journey of Grubhub's Second Public Listing
• (35:54) - The Challenges of Merging and Going Public Again
• (37:53) - The Role of Charity in Personal Growth
• (41:04) - Accounting Challenges For a Charity
• (43:19) - The Journey from Grubhub to Ethos Life
• (47:35) - Accounting at Ethos vs GrubHub
• (49:14) - The Impact of Accounting Standards on Business
• (55:13) - The Accounting Talent Crisis and Possible Solutions
• (01:01:11) - Thanks for Listening and Remember to Subscribe

Download the Earmark CPE App
 
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Android: https://play.google.com/store/apps/details?id=com.earmarkcpe.app

Connect with Our Guest, Brandt Kucharski

LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/brandtkucharski/

Connect with Blake Oliver, CPA

LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/blaketoliver
Twitter: https://twitter.com/blaketoliver/

Thanks for subscribing to the Earmark Accounting Podcast, brought to you by Earmark CPE, your source for podcast-based continuing education for accounting and tax professionals. You can earn CPE for listening to the episodes on this podcast, and more! Sign up for our mobile app to earn free CPE whenever you want, wherever you go. Learn more at https://earmarkcpe.com.

Sign up to get free CPE for listening to this podcast:
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Apple: https://apps.apple.com/us/app/earmark-cpe/id1562599728

Android: https://play.google.com/store/apps/details?id=com.earmarkcpe.app

Connect with Our Guest, Scott Orn, Chief Operating Officer, CFA
Website: https://kruzeconsulting.com/scott-orn/
LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/scottorn

Learn more about Kruze Consulting
https://kruzeconsulting.com/

Connect with Blake Oliver, CPA
LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/blaketoliver
Twitter: https://twitter.com/blaketoliver/

Thanks to our Sponsor!
Accountests: https://www.accountests.com/

Sign up to get free CPE for listening to this podcast
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Download the Earmark CPE App
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Intuit's The Path to Advisory white paper
https://proconnect.intuit.com/taxprocenter/practice-management/the-path-to-advisory-now-available-for-download/

Connect with Our Guests
Jorge Olavarrieta, VP of Product Management and Design at Intuit
https://www.linkedin.com/in/jolavarrieta/

Learn more about Intuit
https://www.intuit.com/

Minal Babaria, CPA, CTC, CEO and Founder of KB Tax Deviser CPAs
https://www.linkedin.com/in/minal-babaria/

Learn more about KB Tax Deviser CPAs
https://www.kbtaxdevisers.com/

Connect with Blake Oliver, CPA
LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/blaketoliver
Twitter: https://twitter.com/blaketoliver/

Mike Manalac, AKA "Mike from Accounting," joins the show to share his inspiring career journey and unconventional path from public accounting to a dream role at Google. Despite accounting stereotypes, Mike crafted his adventurous route to his ideal job. He opens up about hustling into big tech, regrouping after rejection, taking calculated risks, and breaking out of the "lazy river" career approach. Mike dishes creative tips for personal branding, nailing interviews, and landing your dream accounting job. His story proves that with grit and imagination, accountants can forge exciting careers beyond the stereotypes.

Sponsor
Check out our Sponsor LiveFlow — Advanced Financial Reporting on Autopilot

• (01:07) - Mike Manalac joins the show
• (05:00) - Can can AI help with rev rec in the future?
• (07:02) - Are you allowed to use Excel at Google?
• (09:00) - Mike started out in public accounting as an auditor
• (14:44) - How do we help accountants be happier in their jobs?
• (18:29) - How did you transition from public accounting to private industry?
• (24:21) - Starting from scratch in San Francisco
• (29:48) - How many interviews did it take?
• (37:32) - How to get through the phone screen
• (43:19) - Tips for in-person interviews
• (51:25) - Why Mike wrote "No Flux Given"
• (56:34) - How to reach Mike and get his book

Download the Earmark CPE App
 
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Connect with Our Guest, Mike Manalac

LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/mikemanalac
Website: https://www.mikefromaccounting.com

Connect with Blake Oliver, CPA

LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/blaketoliver
Twitter: https://twitter.com/blaketoliver/