Scaling New Heights Podcast: Cutting Edge Training For Small Business Advisors: Recent Episodes
Woodard Events
The “Scaling New Heights” podcast is designed for accountants and other business advisors, providing professionals with year-round access to some of the key training from our annual Scaling New Heights conference. Each weekly broadcast includes an interview with a featured guest who is either a past Scaling New Heights presenter or a presenter we’ve recruited for an upcoming conference.
On this episode of the Woodard Report podcast, Joe speaks with Ron Baker about Peter Drucker's most influential ideas, including the rise of knowledge work, the importance of effectiveness over efficiency, and the need for businesses to pursue future opportunities instead of clinging to the past. They also explore how accounting firms can use distinct brands to separate commoditized services from high-value advisory work as well as why religious leaders offer valuable insights into purpose, dignity, stewardship, and the moral role of business.
About Ron BakerRonald J. Baker began his CPA career with KPMG in 1984. He is the co-founder of THRESHOLD and co-host of The Soul of Enterprise podcast. A renowned speaker and author, he has written eight best-selling books, including Firm of the Future, Implementing Value Pricing and Time's Up. He has educated over 450,000 professionals worldwide and has been named among Accounting Today's Top 100 Most Influential People. A graduate of San Francisco State University, he is also a faculty member of the Professional Pricing Society and a Disney University alumnus.
- HBR interview with Jerry Seinfeld
- The Soul of Enterprise clergy episodes
- Father Robert Sirico
- Rabbi Daniel Lapin
- Mustafa Akyol
- Peter Drucker GPT interview
Thank you to our show sponsor, Puzzle! Puzzle replaces manual quickbooks workflows with AI-driven books built for review, approval, and audit-ready accountability. Learn more at puzzle.io.
Learn more about the show and our sponsors at Woodard.com/podcast
On this episode of the Woodard Report podcast, Heather speaks with Peter McCarroll about why accounting firms must treat AI adoption as a strategic business transformation rather than simply adding new software tools. Peter explains the pricing pressures threatening traditional compliance work, the need to redesign firms around advisory value and human relationships, and how reusable AI instructions and skills can help teams turn individual experimentation into shared, repeatable processes.
About Peter McCarroll Peter McCarroll is a Chartered Accountant (NZ), CPA (Canada), and the founder of The AI Accountant — the only AI training and implementation platform built exclusively for CAS practices. He runs a full-service accounting practice at Fuel Accountants, where he has spent the past two years deploying AI across real client workflows. Peter helps accounting firms move from experimentation to operational transformation — not with theory, but with systems built inside a working practice.
- The AI Champion's Field Guide: What to Do Now, What to Ask For
- Learn more about The AI Accountant
- Learn more about Fuel Accountants
- Connect with Peter on LinkedIn
Thank you to our show sponsor, Bill! Bill is the intelligent way to create and pay bills, send invoices, manage expenses, control budgets, and access the credit your business needs to grow, all in one platform.
Learn more about the show and our sponsors at Woodard.com/podcast
On this episode of the Woodard Report podcast, Joe and Heather talk about Xero's move into the midmarket, why accounting firms may find greater opportunity above the AI disruption zone, and how empathy can defuse difficult client conversations. They also discuss how personal transformation can lead to a healthier, more successful practice.
Current events —
- NJ Considers Pet tax credit
- Xero targets Australia's medium-sized businesses with launch of Ultra
TV/Movie quote of the week —
- Outcome
- House of the Dragon
Excellent Thing We Learned —
- As AI replaces search, all roads lead to authority
Member spotlight —
- David Williams of CPB Solutions
The Woodard Report article of the week —
- The "Ask Deb" series begins this week!
Thank you to our show sponsor, Digits! Digits is the world's first agent general ledger, accounting software that works for you. Built from the ground up for the AI era, Digits automates bookkeeping in month and shifting your team from data entry to review and advisory. Visit digits.com to get started today.
Learn more about the show and our sponsors at Woodard.com/podcast
On this episode of the Woodard Report podcast, Joe speaks with Jan Haugo about how accounting firms can move beyond experimenting with AI and begin using it to transform workflows, increase profitability, and create more capacity for strategic advisory services. Jan shares practical approaches for overcoming security concerns and uncertainty, including her "pain, problem, prompt" method, while emphasizing the importance of firmwide training, strong governance, and leadership-driven adoption. They also explore how AI can help accountants become more thoughtful, empathetic advisors by freeing them to focus on the goals and challenges that matter most to their clients.
About Jan Haugo Jan Haugo Vuicich is the founder of SmartAccountant.AI, an AI training and implementation company built for accounting professionals, by someone who spent years doing the actual work. She was named to MSN's Top 10 AI Leaders to Follow in 2026 and co-authored Intuit's AI Certification curriculum.
Before any of that, she was running a small accounting practice, finishing her degree over a decade as a single mom, and logging 70+ hour weeks. That history is what makes her training different. She is not teaching from the outside. She built her frameworks from inside the same workflows her clients are trying to fix.
Through SmartAccountant.AI, Jan runs the SMART Method Bootcamp, a foundational AI training program that has seen 100% adoption among participants, along with done-with-you training and direct AI implementation for firms ready to make real operational changes. She works with solo practitioners through mid-size accounting firms across the country, and the work is the same regardless of firm size: help owners and their teams reclaim their time, price their services at the level the work actually deserves, and build practices that hold up outside of tax season too.
- Learn more about SmartAccountant.AI
- Connect with Jan on LinkedIn
Thank you to our show sponsor, Rightworks! For more information about RightWorks, please visit Rightworks.com.
Learn more about the show and our sponsors at Woodard.com/podcast
On this episode of the Woodard Report podcast, Joe and Heather speak about Microsoft's latest quantum computing and AI developments, and what those shifts could mean for accounting professionals. They also connect lessons from TV, April Rinne's book Flux, and Donna Reed's article on client conversations to the importance of adaptability, empathy, and intentional decision-making in advisory work.
Current events —
- Microsoft's New Quantum Chip Aiming for Useful Machine in 2029
- Microsoft Build 2026: Be yourself at work
TV/Movie quote of the week —
- The Boroughs
- House of the Dragon
Excellent Thing We Learned —
- Insert live valuations of stocks, currency or geographical information right in Excel
- Change Is Not an Event—It's the Environment (from April Rinne's book, Flux)
Member spotlight —
- Connect with Diane Dana on LinkedIn
The Woodard Report article of the week —
- The Quiet Question that Improves Every Client Conversation
Thank you to our show sponsor, Zoho! Zoho is a unique and powerful software suite to transform the way you work, designed for businesses of all sizes, built by a company that values your privacy.
Learn more about the show and our sponsors at Woodard.com/podcast
On this episode of the Woodard Report podcast, Joe and Heather speak about emerging developments shaping the accounting profession, including the consolidation of New England CPA societies, Pilot's shift from a local partnership model to AI-powered bookkeeping software, and how firms can use automation to elevate, not replace, their advisory services. They also explore the importance of healthy client boundaries, lessons from popular TV shows, recent IRS penalty relief opportunities, and why uniquely human qualities like navigating uncertainty and building relationships remain essential in an AI-driven future.
Current events —
- 5 New England State CPA Societies merge to form "New England Society of CPAs"
- Pilot is taking a software approach to bookkeeper empowerment called Meridian
TV/Movie quote of the week —
- Schitt's Creek
- Half Man
Excellent Thing We Learned —
- IRS may owe millions of taxpayers refunds for pandemic-era penalty relief
Member spotlight —
- Steve Roderick of Roderick's Payroll
The Woodard Report article of the week —
- Law Firm Bookkeeping Is Not Regular Small Business Bookkeeping
Thank you to our show sponsor, Puzzle! Puzzle, the next generation firm, AI-powered, human-led. Puzzle replaces manual quick books workflows with AI-driven books built for review, approval, and audit-ready accountability. Learn more at puzzle.io
Learn more about the show and our sponsors at Woodard.com/podcast
On this episode of the Woodard Report podcast, Joe speaks with Jessica McKellar about her journey from studying computer science at MIT and building successful software startups to founding Pilot, a bookkeeping and accounting technology company. Jessica shares how Pilot evolved from solving the financial back-office challenges faced by entrepreneurs into a platform and explains how automation, AI, and value-based pricing are reshaping the economics of accounting firms. She also introduces Meridian, Pilot's new platform that enables autonomous bookkeeping, month-end close processes, and AI-assisted accounting workflows designed to help firms scale while improving both client and employee experiences.
About Jessica McKellar Jessica McKellar is the co-founder and CEO of Pilot. She started the company with a simple conviction: small business owners shouldn't have to be their own bookkeeper, accountant, and financial advisor all at once. Today, Pilot serves more than 3,500 businesses, from neighborhood restaurants and retail shops to growing service businesses, helping owners get books off their plates so they can focus on what actually grows their company. Before Pilot, Jessica founded two other companies that were acquired by Oracle and Dropbox. She holds 3 degrees from MIT. Jessica also teaches programming at San Quentin State Prison and advocates for hiring formerly incarcerated people. She believes that excluding talented workers based on their records doesn't make business sense, and that second chances belong in the workplace too.
- Learn more about Meridian from Pilot
- Connect with Jessica on LinkedIn
Thank you to our show sponsor, Canopy! Unclunk your firm with Canopy, the fully integrated practice management that helps accountants build the firm they always wanted. The suite includes client and document management, workflow, time and billing, engagements and proposals, and more. Check out GetCanopy.com.
Learn more about the show and our sponsors at Woodard.com/podcast.
On this episode of the Woodard Report podcast, Joe speaks with Kate O'Neill about the intersection of technology and humanity, exploring how businesses can embrace AI and automation without losing the human connection that drives trust, meaning, and purpose. They discuss why accounting professionals should view AI not as a replacement, but as an opportunity to shift from transactional work to more strategic, empathetic, and judgment-driven client relationships. The conversation also dives into the risks of over-automation and why human wisdom, context, and lived experience remain irreplaceable in an increasingly tech-driven world.
About Kate O'Neill Kate is the founder of KO Insights, helping leaders and organizations make future-ready, meaningful, and ethical decisions about technology and innovation. She's a former digital strategist for Netflix and early Google, and the author of 6 books, 4 of which are in tech and business including Tech Humanist and What Matters Next.
- Learn more about KO Insights
- Connect with Kate on LinkedIn
Thank you to our show sponsor, Rightworks! For more information about RightWorks, please visit woodard.com/podcast.
Learn more about the show and our sponsors at Woodard.com/podcast
On this episode of the Woodard Report podcast, Heather and Joe talk about major developments shaping the accounting profession, including Intuit's dramatic stock decline, workforce layoffs tied to AI adoption, and the launch of ChatGPT Finance. They also explore how artificial intelligence is rapidly transforming professional services, emphasizing the need for accountants to embrace change by leaning into human-centered skills like judgment, relationships, and advisory work. Along the way, they share productivity strategies, discuss the dangers of "not us" thinking around AI disruption, and spotlight a successful bookkeeping professional building a high-value, relationship-driven practice.
Current events —
- Intuit's Stock Plunge and other troubles
- Ted Callahan, former head of accountant channel at Intuit, is now deputy CTO at Sage
TV/Movie quote of the week —
- The Incredibles
- Project Hail Mary
Excellent Thing We Learned —
- The rule of three
- Not-Us Thinking
Member spotlight —
- Michael McClellan of Aurora Bookkeeping & Consulting
The Woodard Report article of the week —
- Lock It Down, Write It Down (Intuit Security for Firms)
Thank you to our show sponsor, Digits! Digits is the world's first agentic general ledger. It is accounting software that works for you. Built from the ground up for the AI era, Digits automates bookkeeping in month end, shifting your team from data entry to review and advisory. Visit Digits.com to get started today.
Learn more about the show and our sponsors at Woodard.com/podcast
On this episode of the Woodard Report podcast, Heather speaks with Tyler Otto about his unconventional path into accounting, growing a firm, and how niching down helped strengthen both company culture and client relationships. Tyler shares candid advice on when and how to "fire" difficult clients, what red flags to watch for during prospecting, and why firm owners should prioritize cultural fit over revenue. The conversation also dives into Tyler's upcoming live game show at Scaling New Heights, and practical ways accounting firms can safely experiment with AI while preparing for the future of the profession.
About Tyler Otto Tyler Otto is the president and owner of Specialized Accounting, a thriving seven-figure remote firm dedicated to the hospitality industry. Before joining forces with his wife Karen at her solo practice, Tyler honed his finance chops with leadership roles at Vail Resorts and Imprint Hospitality. Known for his energy and approachability, Tyler is passionate about collaboration with fellow professionals and welcoming new accountants to the field. He's presented at major accounting, tech, and hospitality conferences and recently launched Firm Foundation, a step-by-step course turning firm-building from daunting into doable. Whether behind a microphone or trading insights on podcasts, Tyler brings both expertise and a dash of fun to any discussion.
- Learn more about Specialized Accounting
- Connect with Tyler on LinkedIn
Thank you to our show sponsor, Woodard! The Woodard membership program will help you build your ideal practice with our coaching, education, community, and resources. We'll get you there with strategic direction from experienced pros, access to skill building and resources, and a community to continually inspire your practices transformation.
Learn more about the show and our sponsors at Woodard.com/podcast
On this episode of the Woodard Report podcast, Joe and Heather speak about the rapid acceleration of AI and how it is reshaping the accounting profession, from audit and compliance work to more advisory-focused roles. They explore the importance of maintaining the "soul" of a business in an increasingly automated world, discuss the rise of AI agents and emerging technologies, and share insights on how accountants can adapt by leaning into their uniquely human strengths.
Current events —
- KPMG closes U.S. federal audit practice, trims advisory staff
- META Lays off about 10% its workforce
TV/Movie quote of the week —
- Company Retreat
- The Pitt
Member spotlight —
- Thrive Business Services
The Woodard Report article of the week —
- The Sacred Ritual of Month-End (An Accountant's Comfort Blanket)
Thank you to our show sponsor, Digits! Digits is the world's first agentic general ledger. It is accounting software that works for you. Built from the ground up for the AI era, Digits automates bookkeeping in month end, shifting your team from data entry to review and advisory. Visit Digits.com to get started today.
Learn more about the show and our sponsors at Woodard.com/podcast
On this episode of the Woodard Report podcast, Heather speaks with Debra about the power of relationships in accounting, why bookkeepers and accountants are often the true drivers behind their clients' dreams, and how human connection creates lasting value far beyond tax returns and reconciliations. Debra shares the inspiration behind her podcast, Bookkeepers on Fire, her philosophy on advisory conversations, and how AI is freeing firms from tedious tasks so they can focus more on strategy, leadership, and client trust.
About Debra Kilsheimer Debra Kilsheimer is a Curiosity Powered Advisor, Speaker and creative thinker based in Port Orange. She challenges the norm! She is a Top 100 ProAdvisor, Top 10 ProAdvisor, Woodard CAS Winner, and an Intuit Accountant Council alumni. Behind the Scenes (BSFS) is a Port Orange, Florida firm helping business owners stay on top of bookkeeping, accounting, payroll and tax prep. We streamline the work so you can make faster decisions with fewer surprises.
- Learn more about Behind the Scenes (BSFS)
- Connect with Debra on LinkedIn
Thank you to our show sponsor, Canopy! Unclunk your firm with Canopy, the fully integrated practice management that helps accountants build the firm they always wanted. The suite includes client and document management, workflow, time and billing, engagements and proposals, and more. Check out getcanopy.com.
Learn more about the show and our sponsors at Woodard.com/podcast
On this episode of the Woodard Report podcast, Joe and Heather speak about the rapid evolution of AI, payments, and pricing models in the accounting technology space. They explore Intuit's move toward real-time FedNow payments, the rise of outcome-based AI pricing, and how firms can adapt by focusing on value, process discipline, and proactive decision-making rather than fear or hesitation.
Current events —
- Intuit becomes FedNow Certified
- Digits Announces Outcome-Based Pricing
TV/Movie quote of the week —
- Project Hail Mary
- The Man Without a Face
Excellent things we learned —
- Export your prompt history from ChatGPT and import it into Claude
Member spotlight —
- Essential Bookkeeping Solutions
The Woodard Report article of the week —
- Why Accountants Undercharge Without Realizing It
Thank you to our show sponsor, Woodard! The Woodard membership program will help you build your ideal practice with our coaching, education, community and resources. We'll get you there with strategic direction from experienced pros, access to skill building and resources and a community to continually inspire your practice's transformation.
Learn more about the show and our sponsors at Woodard.com/podcast
On this episode of the Woodard Report podcast, Joe speaks with Kacee Johnson about how artificial intelligence is reshaping the accounting profession far beyond simple efficiency gains. They discuss the difference between firms that are reacting to AI with quick-fix tools versus those strategically rethinking their entire operating model, including pricing, staffing, advisory services, and client expectations. Kacee also shares insights on AI hype versus reality, the future of advisory-focused firms, and the mission behind the new AI Native Accounting Foundation to help firms navigate AI adoption responsibly and effectively.
About Kacee Johnson Kacee is a fintech innovation leader who lives at the intersection of emerging tech and practical transformation. She has been honored as CPA Practice Advisor's Top 25 Thought Leaders, Accounting Today's Top 100 Most Influential, AICPA's Most Powerful Women, and is a Certified Corporate Director from NACD. As an independent nonprofit, the AI Native Accounting Foundation equips firms and finance teams to adopt AI with confidence through education, research, and recognition thereby moving the profession past hype and into practice.
- Learn more about the AI Native Accounting Foundation
- Connect with Kacee Johnson on LinkedIn
Thank you to our show sponsor, Digits! Digits is the world's first agentic general ledger. It is accounting software that works for you. Built from the ground up for the AI era, Digits automates bookkeeping in month end, shifting your team from data entry to review and advisory. Visit Digits.com to get started today.
Learn more about the show and our sponsors at Woodard.com/podcast
On this episode of the Woodard Report podcast, Joe speaks with Matt Tait about Decimal's evolution from a fast-growing, tech-enabled CAS practice into a franchise model designed to empower accounting and bookkeeping firm owners. Matt shares why Decimal sold its direct services business to focus entirely on helping small firms scale through a turnkey operating system that combines staffing, AI-powered tools, technology, processes, and community support. The conversation also explores the future of the accounting industry, including the impact of AI, private equity, outsourcing, and the growing need for firm owners to think like business owners rather than practitioners.
About Matt Tait Matt Tait has spent his career as an entrepreneur, having previously launched two technology companies. He's always focused on helping businesses, making it easier for them to operate while creating great customer experiences. Continuing a people-first theme driven by technology, Matt launched Decimal with his Co-Founder Jacob Cloran to solve financial operations, bookkeeping, and tax for small and medium-sized businesses. Now they're expanding the mission to help small accounting firms succeed through franchising.
- Learn more about Decimal
- Connect with Matt on LinkedIn
Thank you to our show sponsor, Zoho! Zoho is a unique and powerful software suite to transform the way you work, designed for businesses of all sizes, built by a company that values your privacy.
Learn more about the show and our sponsors at Woodard.com/podcast
On this episode of the Woodard Report podcast, Joe speaks with Dr. Sabrina Starling about how business owners can reclaim time and increase profitability by focusing on high-value work, empowering their teams, and adopting a "$10,000 hour" mindset. They explore common missteps like failing to delegate, overcomplicating services, and misunderstanding client needs, while emphasizing the importance of human connection in an AI-driven world. The conversation also highlights strategies for hiring A-players and building a business that supports life, not the other way around.
About Dr. Sabrina Starling Sabrina Starling, Ph.D., PCC, BCC, The Business Psychologist, is the international bestselling author of How to Hire the Best and The 4 Week Vacation®. Her work has been featured in Forbes, Entrepreneur.com, and Thrive Global. She is the founder of Tap the Potential and cohost of the Profit by Design Podcast, globally ranked in the top 5% of most popular shows by Listen Notes. Listed in The Daily Hustle's Top 50 Entrepreneurs to Watch in 2022, Dr. Sabrina is on a mission to send 10,000 entrepreneurs on a 4 Week Vacation® in 10 years.
- Discover How To Make Your Time Worth $10,000 An Hour
- TEDx Talk: From Burnout to Balance: Redefining Success in Work and Life
- Tap the Potential LLC
- Connect with Dr. Sabrina on LinkedIn
Thank you to our show sponsor, Puzzle! Puzzle is the next generation firm: AI-powered, human-led. Puzzle replaces manual QuickBooks workflows with AI-driven books built for review, approval, and audit-ready accountability. Learn more at Puzzle.io.
Learn more about the show and our sponsors at Woodard.com/podcast
On this episode of the Woodard Report podcast, Heather and Joe talk about the rapid evolution of AI, highlighting new developments like Xero's partnership with Anthropic and the growing role of AI agents in business operations. They explore how AI is shifting from simple assistance to performing complex tasks, while emphasizing the continued need for human oversight, judgment, and ethical responsibility. The conversation also balances excitement with caution, urging professionals to adopt AI strategically while staying informed about its risks and limitations.
Current events —
- Xero and Anthropic Team Up on AI for Small Businesses
- Microsoft Released a Report titled "2025: The Year the Frontier Firm is Born"
TV/Movie quote of the week —
- The Good Place
- The PITT
Excellent things we learned —
- Use artifacts to visualize and create AI apps without ever writing a line of code
- A World Without Work by Dr. Daniel Susskind
Member spotlight —
- Karem Ospino of Ospino Consulting
The Woodard Report article of the week —
- What Accounting Websites Get Wrong + What Pros Recommend
Thank you to our show sponsor, Woodard! The Woodard membership program will help you build your ideal practice with our coaching, education, community and resources. We'll get you there with strategic direction from experienced pros, access to skill building and resources and a community to continually inspire your practice's transformation.
Learn more about the show and our sponsors at Woodard.com/podcast
On this episode of the Woodard Report podcast, Heather and Joe talk about the surge in accounting firm mergers and acquisitions alongside major industry shifts, including Microsoft entering the accounting space with AI-driven platforms. They explore how artificial intelligence is reshaping work by replacing tasks, not entire jobs, while emphasizing the growing importance of human judgment, relationships, and adaptability.
Current events —
- 14 Firm Acquisitions in the last 30 days (see the bottom of the show notes for a full list)
- Microsoft sponsors Scaling New Heights for the first time in our 17 year history
TV/Movie quote of the week —
- The Iron Giant
- Avengers: Infinity War
Excellent things we learned —
- Using the clipboard
- A World Without Work by Dr. Daniel Susskind
Member spotlight —
- Lana Jo Hill of Hill Bookkeeping and Consulting
The Woodard Report article of the week —
- Make the Case to Attend Scaling New Heights 2026 + Template
Thank you to our show sponsor, Woodard! The Woodard membership program will help you build your ideal practice with our coaching, education, community and resources. We'll get you there with strategic direction from experienced pros, access to skill building and resources and a community to continually inspire your practice's transformation.
Learn more about the show and our sponsors at Woodard.com/podcast
Full list of acquisitions mentioned by Heather:
- March 17, 2026: EisnerAmper and Price, Reuben, and Associates, LLP. EisnerAmper announced that the Calabasas firm joined its restaurant advisory practice.
- March 16, 2026: Xeinadin and Gregory Priestley & Stewart. Xeinadin announced its acquisition of GP&S, a Long Eaton accountancy and business advisory practice serving owner managed businesses across the Midlands.
- March 11, 2026: Doeren Mayhew and Berman Hopkins CPAs & Associates, LLP. Doeren Mayhew said it acquired the Florida based top 300 CPA firm, expanding its Central Florida footprint.
- March 9 and 10, 2026: TC Group and Little and Neal. TC Group announced the acquisition of Ferryhill practice Little and Neal to strengthen its North East presence.
- March 5, 2026: Carr, Riggs & Ingram and CFO Hub. CRI announced that San Diego based CFO Hub joined the CRI Family of Companies.
- March 3, 2026: Armanino and MSTiller. Armanino announced that MSTiller joined the firm, adding a Southeast focused accounting firm with offices in Georgia and New York.
- March 3, 2026: BK Plus and Crowther Chartered Accountants. BK Plus announced the addition of Crowther Chartered Accountants in Huddersfield, expanding its Yorkshire footprint.
- March 2, 2026: Xeinadin and Accountancy Cloud. Xeinadin announced it acquired London based Accountancy Cloud, a practice focused on startup and venture backed businesses.
- February 26, 2026: Sorren and Connected Accounting. Sorren said Connected Accounting joined the firm, giving it a California presence and broader technology driven accounting capabilities.
- February 25, 2026: UHY and Larson Tax Partners. UHY announced the acquisition of St. Louis based Larson Tax Partners to expand its Midwest and national tax capabilities.
- February 23, 2026: Doeren Mayhew and Dent Moses, plus Impact Technology Group. Doeren Mayhew announced its acquisition of Birmingham based CPA firm Dent Moses and its affiliate Impact Technology Group, expanding into Alabama.
- February 20, 2026: UHY and CMJ LLP. UHY announced the addition of Queensbury, New York CPA firm CMJ LLP, expanding in New York's Capital Region.
- February 19, 2026: Pinion and TCA. Pinion announced its intent to merge with TCA, with the proposed combination expected to take effect April 1, 2026.
- February 19, 2026: Haefele Flanagan and Mig Murphy Sistrom, CPA, PC. Haefele Flanagan announced it acquired the Durham, North Carolina nonprofit accounting and advisory firm.
On this episode of the Woodard Report podcast, Heather and Joe talk about recent developments in AI-powered audit tools, shifting software strategies, and what these changes mean for accounting firms of all sizes. They also explore lessons from pop culture on leadership and workplace culture, emphasizing the importance of aligning actions with stated values. The conversation rounds out with insights on emerging AI protocols and how firms can better structure both their work and client relationships for long-term success.
Current events —
- Auvenir separates from Deloitte
- Intuit launches Construction ERP as part of Enterprise ES
TV/Movie quote of the week —
- Bugonia
- Age of Ultron
Excellent things we learned —
- MCP stands for Model Context Protocol
- The Productivity Project: Accomplishing More by Managing Your Time, Attention, and Energy
Member spotlight —
- Mercury Business Associates
The Woodard Report article of the week —
- The Art of Truly Not Working
Thank you to our show sponsor, Zoho! Zoho is a unique and powerful software suite to transform the way you work, designed for businesses of all sizes, built by a company that values your privacy.
Learn more about the show and our sponsors at Woodard.com/podcast
On this episode of the Woodard Report podcast, Heather speaks with April Rinne about how our early life experiences shape our relationship with change and how fear versus hope influences how we respond to uncertainty. They explore April's concept of a "flux mindset," including practical strategies like embracing a portfolio career and learning to "run slower" to navigate today's fast-paced, AI-driven world. The conversation highlights how accounting professionals can build resilience and adaptability by reframing change as an opportunity for growth.
About April Rinne April Rinne is a change navigator: she helps individuals and organizations rethink and reshape their relationships with change and uncertainty. She's a trusted advisor, speaker, investor, lawyer, global development executive, adventurer (100+ countries) and insatiable handstander. She is ranked one of the 50 leading female futurists in the world and is a Harvard Law School graduate, a Young Global Leader at the World Economic Forum, a member of the Silicon Guild and Thinkers50 Radar, and author of the international bestseller Flux: 8 Superpowers for Thriving in Constant Change.
- Learn more about April Rinne
- Connect with April on LinkedIn
Thank you to our show sponsor, Puzzle! Puzzle is the next generation firm: AI-powered, human-led. Puzzle replaces manual QuickBooks workflows with AI-driven books built for review, approval, and audit-ready accountability. Learn more at Puzzle.io.
Learn more about the show and our sponsors at Woodard.com/podcast
On this episode of the Woodard Report podcast, Heather and Joe discuss the growing threat of AI-powered financial scams and practical steps firms can take to protect themselves and their clients. They also explore major shifts in the accounting technology space, including platform-driven CAS models, AI misconceptions, and evolving firm strategies.
Current events —
- Financial scams on the rise and they are getting better. How can we protect ourselves?
- Xendoo to purchase the Infinite platform from Botkeeper
TV/Movie quote of the week —
- Portlandia
- A Knight of the 7 Kingdoms
Excellent things we learned —
- More than a Glitch: Confronting Race, Gender, and Ability Bias in Tech
- The Productivity Project: Accomplishing More by Managing Your Time, Attention, and Energy
Member spotlight —
- Melissa Honan, Profitable Painter CPA
The Woodard Report article of the week —
- Inside Intuit's Career Pipeline Program for Accountants
Thank you to our show sponsor, Woodard! The Woodard membership program will help you build your ideal practice with our coaching, education, community, and resources. We'll get you there with strategic direction from experienced pros, access to skill building and resources, and a community to continually inspire your practice's transformation.
Learn more about the show and our sponsors at Woodard.com/podcast
On this episode of the Woodard Report podcast, Heather and Joe discuss new research on global AI adoption and what it means for accounting firms, highlighting how early adopters are gaining strategic advantages while others risk falling behind. They explore recent funding surges in AI-powered accounting tools, practical considerations for implementing AI within firms, and the importance of governance, strategy, and financial independence in adapting to rapid technological change.
Current events —
- AICPA CIMA Survey Shows Growing AI Adoption Gap
- Basis is the first stand alone AI enablement platform to reach unicorn status
TV/Movie quote of the week —
- Blue Moon
- Billions
Excellent things we learned —
- Copilot allows you to switch between all OpenAI and Anthropic models
- The average American adult watches 3 hours and 43 minutes of television every day
Member spotlight —
- Lisa Crawford, Owner of Crawford Financial Solutions
The Woodard Report article of the week —
- Explore the AI Track at Scaling New Heights 2026
Thank you to our show sponsor, Puzzle! Puzzle, the next generation firm, AI-powered, human-led. Puzzle replaces manual quickbooks workflows with AI-driven books built for review, approval, and audit-ready accountability. Learn more at puzzle.io.
Learn more about the show and our sponsors at Woodard.com/podcast
On this episode of the Woodard Report podcast, Heather and Joe discuss new research on AI adoption in the workplace, highlighting the growing wage and opportunity gap between AI-fluent professionals and those who are not. They also explore major shifts in the accounting tech landscape, including month-end automation, evolving pricing strategies, and competitive convergence among software platforms.
Current events —
- Only 5% of workers are AI fluent - according to Google study
- The "pile on" around month end automation
TV/Movie quote of the week —
- The Breakfast Club
- Titans: The Rise of Wallstreeet
Excellent things we learned —
- Undergraduate enrollment in accounting continues to rise
Member spotlight —
- Dave Eshbach of CleanSlate Financial Services
The Woodard Report article of the week —
- Canopy Bookkeeping Launches to Streamline Month-End Close
Thank you to our show sponsor, Digits! Digits is the world's first agent general ledger, accounting software that works for you. Built from the ground up for the AI era, Digits automates bookkeeping in month and shifting your team from data entry to review and advisory. Visit Digits.com to get started today.
Learn more about the show and our sponsors at Woodard.com/podcast
On this episode of the Woodard Report podcast, Heather and Joe discuss the launch of the AI Native Accounting Foundation (including its first award at Scaling New Heights) and what BotKeeper's abrupt shutdown signals about the rise and fall of "tech-driven bookkeeping" first movers. They explore why the future is "human-first, AI-enabled," arguing firms must shift from selling bookkeeping/tax prep to building advisory skills and wisdom-driven judgment that AI can't replace.
Current events —
- AI Native Accounting Foundation launches to cut AI hype
- Botkeeper Shuts Down
TV/Movie quote of the week —
- Victoria
- Landman
Excellent things we learned —
- To Thrive in the AI Era, Companies Need Agent Managers
Member spotlight —
- Julie Healy of Clear Cents Bookkeeping
The Woodard Report article of the week —
- My Daughter Went to a TurboTax Store and Here's What Happened
Thank you to our show sponsor, Zoho! Zoho is a unique and powerful software suite to transform the way you work, designed for businesses of all sizes, built by a company that values your privacy.
Learn more about the show and our sponsors at Woodard.com/podcast
On this episode of the Woodard Report podcast, Heather speaks with Amanda Aguillard about her path from discovering accounting at 16 to building a cloud-based firm, launching the peer-driven Accounting Salon community, and becoming COO at Padgett. They discuss how Padgett helps firms implement standardized systems to reduce decision paralysis and build a business that isn't dependent on the owner.
About Amanda Aguillard, CPA Amanda Aguillard was only 16 years old when she realized she wanted to become a CPA, and she's used that passion to encourage innovation in the industry she loves. That commitment lives on through her work as the Chief Operating Officer of Padgett, one of North America's largest accounting service and business consulting providers.
Amanda oversees operational and logistical guidance for the company's network of firms. This includes identifying and incorporating the latest cloud technologies into the Padgett operating model. She also is focused on developing and facilitating the necessary trainings to ensure these platforms and tools are successfully implemented by Padgett firms.
Amanda, who is a past Top 50 Women in Accounting, is the author of Xero: A Comprehensive Guide for Accountants and Bookkeepers. She was the Xero Evangelist of the Year in 2016, and used her experience as a Xero Certification instructor to co-found Elefant, a continuing education company for accountants and bookkeepers. She has written numerous articles for industry publications, including the Journal of Accountancy.
Prior to joining the executive team at Padgett, she ran Aguillard Accounting LLC, focusing her efforts on providing unparalleled client support service through a cloud-based practice that could be done anywhere in the world. Amanda also is the founder of Accounting Salon, a thinktank of cloud accounting experts, and its virtual offshoot, SALONv.
Amanda, who holds a Master's Degree in Taxation from the University of Denver, regularly speaks at state CPA societies and industry technology conferences, including Accountex, AICPA Engage, Scaling New Heights, Clio Cloud Conference and Xerocon.
When she's not advocating for her industry, she spends her time cooking for her two children, reading historical fiction and backcountry hiking.
Learn more about Amanda
- Connect with Amanda on LinkedIn
- Learn more about Padgett
Thank you to our show sponsor, Puzzle! Puzzle is the next generation firm: AI-powered, human-led. Puzzle replaces manual QuickBooks workflows with AI-driven books built for review, approval, and audit-ready accountability. Learn more at Puzzle.io.
Learn more about the show and our sponsors at Woodard.com/podcast
On this episode of the Woodard Report podcast, Heather speaks with David Leary about the biggest shifts shaping the accounting profession such as the rollback of the 150-hour CPA requirement and how alternative pathways are already boosting the pipeline of new accounting graduates. They also dig into what AI is actually good for (and where it still fails without strong firm processes and human oversight), plus why private equity in accounting can create serious conflicts of interest, particularly for assurance-related work.
About David Leary David Leary is the Co-Founder and COO of Earmark. He is an innovative and influential force in the small business accounting world with over 22 years of QuickBooks experience.
- Learn more about Earmark
- Connect with David on LinkedIn
Thank you to our show sponsor, Zoho! Zoho is a unique and powerful software suite to transform the way you work, designed for businesses of all sizes, built by a company that values your privacy.
Learn more about the show and our sponsors at Woodard.com/podcast
On this episode of the Woodard Report podcast, Joe speaks with Tanya Hilts about how bookkeepers can move from compliance work into true advisory by leading with better questions, leaning into collaboration, and building confidence through real-time financial conversations. Tanya shares how AI tools like ChatGPT, Claude, and Perplexity can help generate smarter client questions and speed up analysis, while emphasizing that the real "threat" isn't AI itself, but professionals who learn to use it well.
About Tanya Hilts Tanya Hilts, CPB, FCPB is an award-winning accounting pro helping firms adopt practical AI, tighten processes, and grow profit-focused advisory.
- Connect with Tanya on YouTube and learn more about her "AI in Action" series
Thank you to our show sponsor, Woodard! The Woodard membership program will help you build your ideal practice with our coaching, education, community and resources. We'll get you there with strategic direction from experienced pros, access to skill building and resources and a community to continually inspire your practice's transformation.
Learn more about the show and our sponsors at Woodard.com/podcast
On this episode of the Woodard Report podcast, Joe and Heather speak about major January updates in the accounting space, including the IRS's Free File program and why Joe prefers a subsidized third-party prep model over direct IRS filing. They also dig into how large firms like RSM are rolling out tightly governed generative AI tools (like "Ask Luca"), and what that teaches smaller firms about AI quality being driven by both model capability and data control.
Current events —
- IRS got rid of Direct File and is promoting Free File
- RSM lauched its own Generative AI Tool caled AskLuca
TV/Movie quote of the week —
- Wake Up Dead Man: A Knives Out Mystery
- Your Honor
Excellent things we learned —
- In the Room Where It Happens: Generative AI Policy Creation in Higher Education
- The JOLT Effect: How High Performers Overcome Customer Indecision
Member spotlight —
- Jennifer Scott of HireEffect
The Woodard Report article of the week —
- The Competitive Advantage of AI Training for Accounting Professionals
Thank you to our show sponsor, Canopy! Unclunk your firm with Canopy, the fully integrated practice management that helps accountants build the firm they always wanted. The suite includes client and document management, workflow, time and billing, engagements and proposals, and more. Check out getcanopy.com.
Learn more about the show and our sponsors at Woodard.com/podcast
On this episode of the Woodard Report podcast, Joe and Heather speak about early-2026 accounting and tech happenings, including new CPE training for Intuit Enterprise Suite, and why leaning into AI skills can create outsized professional value.
Current events —
- Introduction to Intuit Enterprise Suite Training
- Rapid AI adoption with growing AI skills requirements
TV/Movie quote of the week —
- Victoria
- House of David
Excellent things we learned —
- Mind Magic: The Neuroscience of Manifestation and How It Changes Everything
- The ONE Thing: The Surprisingly Simple Truth About Extraordinary Results
Member spotlight —
- Jodi Plett of Flexkeeper
The Woodard Report article of the week —
- The Competitive Advantage of AI Training for Accounting Professionals
Thank you to our show sponsor, CorpNet! CorpNet is the trusted leader in business formation and compliance services, offering one of the best tools for accountants, CPAs and tax professionals nationwide. The CorpNet Partner Program can 10X your firms revenue by helping clients form a business, register for payroll taxes, maintain compliance and more.
Learn more about the show and our sponsors at Woodard.com/podcast
On this episode of the Woodard Report podcast, Heather speaks with Nancy McClelland, CPA about her journey as the "Dancing Accountant" and how embracing authenticity, community connection, and people skills has shaped her firm and career. They explore the importance of trust, niching, and collaboration between bookkeepers and tax professionals.
About Nancy McClelland, CPANancy The Dancing Accountant is a CPA on a lifelong mission to educate the professionals who support small businesses and their communities. She runs 'Ask a CPA', a Q&A membership for bookkeepers who want to learn to prepare "tax-ready" books; co-hosts "She Counts" (the real-talk podcast for women in accounting); was named Top CAS ProAdvisor; Top 50 Women in Accounting; Bridging the Gap Mentor of the Year; ToPS Speaker of the Year; and AICPA Global Women to Watch – you can check out her award-winning MSN column at thedancingaccountant.com.
Thank you to our show sponsor, Woodard!The Woodard membership program will help you build your ideal practice with our coaching, education, community and resources. We'll get you there with strategic direction from experienced pros, access to skill building and resources and a community to continually inspire your practice's transformation.
Learn more about the show and our sponsors at Woodard.com/podcast
On this episode of the Woodard Report podcast, Joe speaks with Megan Tarnow about her journey as an "accidental accountant" who built a successful niche practice serving nonprofits and the unique challenges that come with pricing, staffing, and mission-driven work. Megan shares practical insights on why clean data, strong advisory relationships, and a controller-level mindset matter more than ever, especially as AI begins to reshape bookkeeping and analysis.
About Megan Tarnow Megan Genest Tarnow is a long-time QuickBooks ProAdvisor with over 25 years working at the intersection of QuickBooks and nonprofits.
- Connect with Megan on LinkedIn
- Learn more about DaisyBee Consulting
Thank you to our show sponsor, Canopy! Unclunk your firm with Canopy, the fully integrated practice management that helps accountants build the firm they always wanted. The suite includes client and document management, workflow, time and billing, engagements and proposals, and more. Check out getcanopy.com.
Learn more about the show and our sponsors at Woodard.com/podcast
On this episode of the Woodard Report podcast, Joe and Heather speak about major shifts in the accounting profession, including new partnership and franchise models that are democratizing technology and intellectual property for firms of all sizes. They explore how innovation, hospitality-driven client experiences, and intentional generosity can help advisors stand out while navigating talent shortages and industry change.
Current events —
- The 2025 top 100 most influential people in accounting
- Pilot anounced the launch of a partnership program with local, independent, bookkeeping practices
TV/Movie quote of the week —
- The Diplomat
- Red Dragon
Excellent things we learned —
- Flux: 8 Superpowers for Thriving in Constant Change
- Unreasonable Hospitality: The Remarkable Power of Giving People More Than They Expect
Member spotlight —
- Ospino Consulting
The Woodard Report article of the week —
- Holiday Generosity Without Turning Your Firm Into a Charity
Thank you to our show sponsor, CorpNet! CorpNet is the trusted leader in business formation and compliance services, offering one of the best tools for accountants, CPAs and tax professionals nationwide. The CorpNet Partner Program can 10X your firms revenue by helping clients form a business, register for payroll taxes, maintain compliance and more.
Learn more about the show and our sponsors at Woodard.com/podcast
On this episode of the Woodard Report podcast, Joe speaks with Blake Oliver about his new book, Building a Sustainable Accounting Firm, and the shift from transactional, hourly-based accounting to outcome-driven, productized services. Blake explains how firms can escape the "transactional treadmill" by redesigning pricing, redistributing workload to reduce seasonality, and adopting recurring, standardized service packages that elevate client experience.
About Blake Oliver Among many other things, Blake founded Earmark so listeners can earn continuing professional education credits for listening to his shows and many more accounting and tax podcasts. The goal of the Earmark app is to make it easy and fun for fellow CPAs to learn and earn CPE every week. Because if you learn every week, it's easy to get the hours you need without stress. And we could all use a little less stress in our lives.
- Connect with Blake on LinkedIn
- Learn more about the Earmark app
- Learn more about Blake's new book
Thank you to our show sponsor, Canopy! Unclunk your firm with Canopy, the fully integrated practice management that helps accountants build the firm they always wanted. The suite includes client and document management, workflow, time and billing, engagements and proposals, and more. Check out getcanopy.com.
Learn more about the show and our sponsors at Woodard.com/podcast
On this episode of the Woodard Report podcast, Joe speaks with Dr. Rico D. Short about his remarkable rise from a single-parent household to becoming a world-class endodontist, author, and speaker, and how faith, mentorship, and identity shaped every step of his journey. They explore how finding your true identity and purpose, rather than comparing yourself to others, can unlock your greatest potential, and how perseverance through personal and professional adversity can transform both your life and leadership.
About Dr. Rico D. Short Dr. Short is a board-certified endodontist, author, professor, and international speaker. He just published his 3rd inspirational book, Purpose Full, which can be found on Amazon at this link. His company is Apex Endodontics and he can also be found on LinkedIn.
- Dr. Short's YouTube channel is at this link
Thank you to our show sponsor, Bill, your financial operations platform! Bill is the intelligent way to create and pay bills, send invoices, manage expenses, control budgets and access the credit your business needs to grow all in one platform.
Learn more about the show and our sponsors at Woodard.com/podcast
On this episode of the Woodard Report podcast, Joe and Heather talk about major updates from Intuit, including its expansion of TurboTax service locations and the introduction of the new Intuit Account Suite. They also explore deeper themes, from how past experiences shape us, to generational perspectives on AI, to how firms can adapt strategically to a changing profession.
Current events —
- Intuit Accounting Suite launch
- Intuit opening a total of 600 on premises locations throughout the U.S.
TV/Movie quote of the week —
- How to Train Your Dragon
- IT chapter 2
Excellent things we learned —
- These 14 colleges offer bachelor's degrees in AI—including one Ivy League school
- Notion
Member spotlight —
- Auburndale Bookkeeping
The Woodard Report article of the week —
- Setting Up a Business for Spouses: Steps to Take
Thank you to our show sponsor, Brex! Brex accounting partners close clients books faster, earn rewards for referrals and attract new customers all on Brex. Brex's integrated platform provides numerous accounting automation benefits, which enable your accountants to focus on premium advisory services, help clients close the books faster and elevate the overall client experience. To become a Brex accounting firm, visit brex.com/partners/accounting to apply.
Learn more about the show and our sponsors at Woodard.com/podcast
On this episode of the Woodard Report podcast, Joe speaks with Keila Hill-Trawick about how boutique accounting firms can thrive by prioritizing deep relationships, proactive communication, and intentional growth. Keila shares how Little Fish Accounting creates a high-touch client experience through streamlined processes, boundaries that protect team capacity, and a focus on year-round partnership rather than transactions. She and Joe also discuss why saying "no" to misaligned clients is essential to delivering consistently excellent service.
About Keila Hill-TrawickKeila leads the strategy and vision at Little Fish Accounting, ensuring every client experience is personal, strategic, and rooted in real-world expertise. As a seasoned entrepreneur herself, she understands the unique challenges that come with building and scaling a business with a small, intentional team.
- Learn more about Keila at BuildToEnough.com
Thank you to our show sponsor, Canopy! Unclunk your firm with Canopy, the fully integrated practice management that helps accountants build the firm they always wanted. The suite includes client and document management, workflow, time and billing, engagements and proposals, and more. Check out getcanopy.com.
Learn more about the show and our sponsors at Woodard.com/podcast
On this episode of the Woodard Report podcast, Heather speaks with Shirley Koss about the importance of human connection and vulnerability in the accounting profession. Shirley shares insights from her travels to industry events, where she's noticed how many professionals feel isolated in remote work environments. Together, she and Heather discuss ways to combat loneliness—through authentic communication, intentional outreach, and community engagement—reminding listeners that showing vulnerability and reaching out can strengthen both personal well-being and professional relationships.
About Shirley Koss At Woodard, we believe that strong communities drive professional growth. Whether you're a CPA, tax preparer, bookkeeper or another accounting professional, the power of peer connection, continuous education and a strong support network can transform your practice. Shirley's mission is to help you maximize these opportunities, and she's eager to connect with all of you—both current and future members—to share ideas and grow the community. Shirley brings years of experience in building successful communities and ensuring member engagement, and her dedication to the success of professionals is clear. She understands the unique challenges accounting professionals face and is ready to help you navigate those challenges while taking your practice to the next level.
- Connect with Shirley Koss on LinkedIn
Thank you to our show sponsor, Canopy! Unclunk your firm with Canopy, the fully integrated practice management that helps accountants build the firm they always wanted. The suite includes client and document management, workflow, time and billing, engagements and proposals, and more. Check out getcanopy.com.
Learn more about the show and our sponsors at Woodard.com/podcast
On this episode of the Woodard Report podcast, Joe and Heather talk about the evolving accounting landscape including Anderson Group's bold IPO and Carbon's acquisition of AIDER AI. What do these moves signal about automation, workflow convergence, and private equity's growing influence?
Current events —
- Tax firm Andersen to file publicly for IPO as soon as this week
- Karbon acquires Aider to deliver the future of AI-powered accounting and bookkeeping
TV/Movie quote of the week —
- Heather mentioned the movie "The Greatest Showman"
- Joe mentioned both "Dune Prophecy" and "Lost in Space"
Excellent things we learned —
- Magical AI: the text expander
Member spotlight —
- Beth Whitworth presented by Kim Petro, Practice Advancement Coach at Woodard
The Woodard Report article of the week —
- Confronting Self-Doubt: Accountants' Edge in an AI World
Thank you to our show sponsor, Zoho! Zoho is a unique and powerful software suite to transform the way you work, designed for businesses of all sizes, built by a company that values your privacy.
Learn more about the show and our sponsors at Woodard.com/podcast
On this episode of the Woodard Report podcast, Joe speaks with Gail Crosley about how accounting firms can achieve sustainable, profitable growth through strategy rather than chance. Gail breaks down the difference between opportunistic and strategic growth, using her "fishing" analogy to show how narrowing focus, identifying ideal client profiles, and evaluating market conditions lead to lasting success. She also explains how firms can adapt when industries shift and reveals her three key elements of growth. Service, channel, and target can help firms thrive organically rather than through mergers.
About Gale Crosley Gale Crosley, CPA, CGMA, is a well-known strategic revenue growth consultant, who has helped almost 500 CPA firms over the past 20+ years. She has worked with their managing partners and other leaders to transform their firms to high growth environments, achieving exceptional organic growth. Nine of the top 20 fastest organically growing firms in the past year are, or have been, her clients. For 18 consecutive years she's been recognized as one of the Top 100 Most Influential People in Accounting by Accounting Today, and for 16 years selected one of the Top 10 Most Recommended Consultants in Inside Public Accounting's Best of the Best.
- Connect with Gale Crosley on LinkedIn
Thank you to our show sponsor, Woodard!!! The Woodard membership program will help you build your ideal practice with our coaching, education, community and resources. We'll get you there with strategic direction from experienced pros, access to skill building and resources and a community to continually inspire your practice's transformation.
Learn more about the show and our sponsors at Woodard.com/podcast
On this episode of the Woodard Report podcast, Heather speaks with Kristen Keats about how to bring joy back into accounting. Kristen is a CPA and industry leader, with over twenty years experience serving small businesses and self-employed clients. With Heather, she shares her mission to create more meaningful, balanced, and fulfilling work for accountants by focusing on client relationships, fair pricing, and team connection. Together, they discuss shifting from burnout and billable hours toward a mindset of empowerment, communication, and purpose where both clients and accountants thrive.
About Kristen KeatsKristen launched her career at a national accounting firm and owned her own practice for more than eight years. Before founding Breakaway, Kristen served as a partner at a local Portland firm and a senior tax manager at a large regional firm. Kristen is an avid and early adopter of new accounting technologies and an expert on cloud accounting. She is passionate about listening to her clients and gaining a well-rounded understanding of their needs and long-term goals, always striving to make their lives easier. Kristen received her degree from the renowned W.P. Carey School of Business at Arizona State University. When Kristen is not advising her clients and leading her team, she enjoys reading, camping, and, most of all, spending time with her two lively teenagers.
- Connect with Kristen Keats on LinkedIn
Thank you to our show sponsor, Canopy!Unclunk your firm with Canopy, the fully integrated practice management that helps accountants build the firm they always wanted. The suite includes client and document management, workflow, time and billing, engagements and proposals, and more. Check out getcanopy.com.
Learn more about the show and our sponsors at Woodard.com/podcast
On this episode of the Woodard Report podcast, Joe speaks with Jeff about the future of AI in accounting and how predictive models can transform bookkeeping accuracy. Jeff shares how his company, Digits, leverages AI not to replace accountants but to streamline workflows, reduce errors, and give professionals more time for higher-value work. They also explore the difference between generative and predictive AI, the role of accountants in reviewing outputs, and why firms must adapt quickly or risk being outpaced by competitors.
About Jeff Seibert Jeff Seibert is the co-founder and CEO of Digits, where he's building the world's first AI-powered accounting platform for startups and small businesses. Jeff is also a frequent presenter on both entrepreneurial and technical topics and has lectured at Stanford, Harvard, MIT, and Tufts, as well as keynoted Scaling New Heights, Twitter Flight, AppsWorld, AnDevCon, EclipseCon, and others.
Learn more about Jeff at:
- JeffSeibert.com
Thank you to our show sponsor, Canopy! Unclunk your firm with Canopy, the fully integrated practice management that helps accountants build the firm they always wanted. The suite includes client and document management, workflow, time and billing, engagements and proposals, and more. Check out getcanopy.com.
Learn more about the show and our sponsors at Woodard.com/podcast
On this episode of the Woodard Report podcast, Heather speaks with Madeline Reeves about the evolution of advisory services in accounting and how firms can confidently transition from transactional work to advisory relationships. Madeline shares insights from her Advisory Amplified Roadshow, a national event series designed to give accounting professionals practical tools for productizing advisory services, building stronger client connections, and leveraging AI to unlock efficiency.
About Madeline Reeves Madeline Reeves’ career has centered around working with accounting firms to help elevate understanding by providing education & coaching around cloud based technology.
Learn more about Madeline Reeves and Advisory Amplified at this link.
Thank you to our show sponsor, CorpNet! CorpNet is the trusted leader in business formation and compliance services, offering one of the best tools for accountants, CPAs and tax professionals nationwide. The CorpNet Partner Program, 10X her firms revenue by helping clients form a business, register for payroll taxes, maintain compliance and more.
Learn more about the show and our sponsors at Woodard.com/podcast
On this episode of the Woodard Report podcast, Heather and Joe speak about upcoming regulatory changes that could ease the burden on government contractors and the potential disruption of the proposed HIRE Act, which would heavily tax outsourced accounting labor. They also dive into how the profession must adapt to staffing shortages, the evolving role of CPAs and noncredentialed accountants, and the transformative impact of AI on jobs.
Current events —
- White House proposes to get rid of 60 accounting requirements for contractors
- Will the HIRE Act hurt outsourcing?
TV/Movie quote of the week —
- Heather mentioned the movie "Her"
- Joe mentioned the miniseries "aka Charlie Sheen"
Excellent things we learned —
- Fourlane CX: Cloud Interface For QuickBooks Desktop
- A World Without Work: Technology, Automation, and How We Should Respond
Member spotlight —
- Brittany Byrd presented by Lamont Nesbitt, Practice Advancement Coach at Woodard
The Woodard Report article of the week —
- Next-Level Bookkeeping in QuickBooks Online: Going Beyond the Basics
Thank you to our show sponsor, CorpNet! CorpNet is the trusted leader in business formation and compliance services, offering one of the best tools for accountants, CPAs and tax professionals nationwide. The CorpNet Partner Program can 10X your firms revenue by helping clients form a business, register for payroll taxes, maintain compliance and more.
Learn more about the show and our sponsors at Woodard.com/podcast
On this episode of the Woodard Report podcast, Heather and Joe speak about the Supreme Court’s pending decision on tariffs, how it could trigger massive refunds for businesses, and why accountants need to prepare now. They also discuss Ernst & Young’s $1 billion investment in AI, exploring how automation might relieve staffing shortages while reshaping the profession.
Current events —
- Refunds on Tariffs if Supreme Court rules them Unconstitutional
- Ernst & Young (EY) pledged $1 billion to advanced AI and workforce development
TV/Movie quote of the week —
- RuPaul's Drag Race All Stars
- Joe mentioned Game of Thrones
Excellent things we learned —
- The Case for Using Small Language Models
- The JOLT Effect: How High Performers Overcome Customer Indecision
Member spotlight —
- Jane Watkins
The Woodard Report article of the week —
- Better Questions. Better Hires. Stronger Firms.
Thank you to our show sponsor, Zoho! Zoho is a unique and powerful software suite to transform the way you work, designed for businesses of all sizes, built by a company that values your privacy.
Learn more about the show and our sponsors at Woodard.com/podcast
On this episode of the Woodard Report podcast, Heather speaks with Byron Patrick about how AI is reshaping accounting education, professional development, and even everyday problem-solving. Byron shares insights from co-founding TB Academy, which offers hands-on courses in AI foundations and case studies for accountants, and highlights favorite AI tools like Gamma.app and Google’s Notebook LM.
About Byron PatrickByron K. Patrick, CPA, is an innovator who thrives at the intersection of accounting and technology. Rejecting traditional accounting roles early on, Byron founded Simplified Innovations, an IT firm built specifically for CPAs. He expanded his impact at Botkeeper, leading the charge in adopting AI to revolutionize bookkeeping. And moved on to transform how accounting firms handle quality assurance through automated technology as CEO of VERIFYiQ. For decades, Byron has been a respected national speaker and writer, translating complex accounting technology topics into practical guidance. As co-founder of TB Academy, Byron equips accountants with generative AI skills, empowering them to become tech-enabled industry leaders. He frequently shares his insights nationwide, making advanced technology approachable and practical for finance professionals. Outside the accounting-tech scene, Byron lives on a horse farm, balancing family, dogs, horses, and a passion for helping accountants redefine their profession.
Learn more about Byron at:
- TB Academy
- X (formerly Twitter)
Thank you to our show sponsor, Canopy! Unclunk your firm with Canopy, the fully integrated practice management that helps accountants build the firm they always wanted. The suite includes client and document management, workflow, time and billing, engagements and proposals, and more. Check out getcanopy.com.
Learn more about the show and our sponsors at Woodard.com/podcast
On this episode of the Woodard Report podcast, Heather and Joe speak about the Gen Z workplace, Microsoft’s research on which jobs are most vulnerable to AI disruption, and how accountants can interpret numbers much like mathematicians describe the inexpressible. They also share TV and movie quotes that highlight the importance of continuous learning, spotlight a Woodard member’s practice transformation, and discuss hiring strategies that ensure stronger, more intentional teams.
Current events —
- GenZ needs extra praise
- Jobs Most at Risk from AI - Report from Microsoft
TV/Movie quote of the week —
- Heather mentioned Foundation
- Joe mentioned Game of Thrones
Excellent things we learned —
- You can switch between ChatGPT models
Member spotlight —
- Vicky D Henry, CPA
The Woodard Report article of the week —
- Interviewing on Purpose - Great Hires Through Better Questions
Thank you to our show sponsor, Woodard!!! The Woodard membership program will help you build your ideal practice with our coaching, education, community and resources. We'll get you there with strategic direction from experienced pros, access to skill building and resources and a community to continually inspire your practice's transformation.
Learn more about the show and our sponsors at Woodard.com/podcast
On this episode of the Woodard Report podcast, Heather speaks with Lisa Rothstein about the power of visual storytelling and how even simple drawings can transform complex financial conversations. Lisa, a New Yorker cartoonist and author of Drawing Your Genius, explains her “three C’s” framework—character, concepts, and context—as tools to make abstract ideas tangible, engaging, and memorable.
About Lisa RothsteinLisa Rothstein is a New Yorker cartoonist and author of "Drawing Out Your Genius" who helps business professionals communicate using simple drawings.
Learn more about Lisa at:
- Amazon
Thank you to our show sponsor, Brex! Brex accounting partners close clients books faster, earn rewards for referrals and attract new customers all on Brex. Brex's integrated platform provides numerous accounting automation benefits, which enable your accountants to focus on premium advisory services, help clients close the books faster and elevate the overall client experience. To become a Brex accounting firm, visit brex.com/partners/accounting to apply.
Learn more about the show and our sponsors at Woodard.com/podcast
On this episode of the Woodard Report podcast, Joe and Heather speak about the latest IRS leadership turnover and the growing shift in CPA licensure requirements, including Illinois’ move from the 150-hour to the 120-hour rule. They also share insights on how AI is reshaping opportunities in the profession, discuss the value of niching for accounting firms, and reflect on lessons from pop culture quotes.
Referenced during the show:
Current events —
- Billy Long out as IRS commissioner after less than two months
- Illinois signs new CPA pathways bill
TV/Movie quote of the week —
- Heather mentioned The White Lotus, Season Three
- Joe mentioned 21
Excellent things we learned —
- Clients Demand Niche Know-How, and They’re Willing to Pay for It
Member spotlight —
- Vicky D Henry, CPA
- Thrive Business Services
The Woodard Report article of the week —
- Nailing Your Niche: Stop Taking Everyone as a Client
Thank you to our show sponsor, Bill, your financial operations platform. Bill is the intelligent way to create and pay bills, send invoices, manage expenses, control budgets and access the credit your business needs to grow all in one platform.
Learn more about the show and our sponsors at Woodard.com/podcast
On this episode of the Woodard Report podcast, Joe speaks with Ed Kless about Threshold, the philosophy behind it, and why transformation is the next evolution for professional services. They explore the progression of economic value—from commodities to transformation—emphasizing that true change means guiding clients to become something new, not just delivering services. Ed explains how accountants and advisors can embrace this revelation to move beyond transactions, avoid burnout, and position themselves for lasting impact.
Read the Threshold REVELATION at this link.
About Ed Kless Ed Kless is the co-founder of Threshold, a professional community dedicated to reimagining the future of advisory services through transformation and philosophy. He is also the co-host of the long-running podcast The Soul of Enterprise, where he and Ron Baker explore topics at the intersection of business, economics, and human flourishing. With decades of experience in business strategy, software, and professional development, Ed has become a sought-after speaker and consultant for firms seeking to move beyond traditional service models. His work emphasizes guiding professionals to embrace transformation, align with higher principles, and create lasting impact for their clients.
Learn more about Ed at:
- X (formerly Twitter)
Thank you to our show sponsor, Bill, your financial operations platform. Bill is the intelligent way to create and pay bills, send invoices, manage expenses, control budgets and access the credit your business needs to grow all in one platform.
Learn more about the show and our sponsors at Woodard.com/podcast
On this episode of the Woodard Report podcast, Joe speaks with Ron Baker about the ethics of pricing and how lessons from airline yield management can apply to accounting practices. They explore the "good, bad, and ugly" sides of dynamic and AI-driven pricing, the distinction between price transparency and pricing transparency, and the importance of maintaining adaptive capacity to serve top clients. Drawing parallels to hotels' pricing integrity, they emphasize that firms should focus on delivering transformative outcomes rather than selling every available hour.
About Ron Baker Ronald J. Baker started his CPA career in 1984 with KPMG’s Private Business Advisory Services in San Francisco. Today, he is the co-founder of Threshold—a professional firm operating in the transformation economy—and podcast co-host of The Soul of Enterprise: Business in the Transformation Economy. He is also the author of Time's Up!: The Subscription Business Model for Professional Firms
Learn more about Ron at:
- X (formerly Twitter)
Thank you to our show sponsor, CorpNet! CorpNet is the trusted leader in business formation and compliance services, offering one of the best tools for accountants, CPAs and tax professionals nationwide. The CorpNet Partner Program, 10X your firm's revenue by helping clients form a business, register for payroll taxes, maintain compliance and more.
Learn more about the show and our sponsors at Woodard.com/podcast
On this episode of the Woodard Report podcast, Joe and Heather speak about the inspiring story of a former KPMG accountant who rescued over 165 people during catastrophic flooding in Texas, highlighting the human side of the profession. They also dive into Xero’s strategic $2.5 billion acquisition of Melio and what it signals for the future of accounting software ecosystems.
Referenced during the show:
Current events —
- KPMG Alum helps save 165 Texas flash flood victims
- Xero Acquires Melio for 2.5 billion dollars
TV/Movie quote of the week —
- Heather mentioned Strange New Worlds
- Joe mentioned Foundation
Excellent things we learned —
- Take the Guesswork out of Reasonable Compensation
- Ways we are using AI for work
The Woodard Report article of the week —
- 10 Simple Productivity Tips for the Chronically Distracted
Thank you to our show sponsor, CorpNet! CorpNet is the trusted leader in business formation and compliance services, offering one of the best tools for accountants, CPAs and tax professionals nationwide. The CorpNet Partner Program, 10X your firm's revenue by helping clients form a business, register for payroll taxes, maintain compliance and more.
Learn more about the show and our sponsors at Woodard.com/podcast
On this episode of the Woodard Report podcast, Heather speaks with Brittany Brown about the painful lessons and courageous decisions that transformed her fast-growing firm, Ledger Gurus. Brittany shares how rapid expansion masked deep inefficiencies, ultimately resulting in nearly $1 million in lost profit, and how embracing accountability, data-driven metrics, and tough cultural shifts helped reverse course. She also discusses her evolving leadership philosophy, her passion for team building, and her new mission to reshape CAS education through university partnerships.
About Brittany Brown Brittany Brown is the Founder and CEO of LedgerGurus, an industry leading ecommerce accounting CAS and inventory practice. Learn more about Brittany at:
- LedgerGurus.com
Thank you to our show sponsor, Brex! Brex accounting partners close clients books faster, earn rewards for referrals and attract new customers all on Brex. Brex's integrated platform provides numerous accounting automation benefits, which enable your accountants to focus on premium advisory services, help clients close the books faster and elevate the overall client experience. To become a Brex accounting firm, visit brex.com/partners/accounting to apply.
Learn more about the show and our sponsors at Woodard.com/podcast
On this episode, Joe Woodard continues his conversation from the stage at Scaling New Heights 2025 for the annual practice advancement breakfast address. He shares a heartfelt message on living with agency through autonomy, aspiration, accountability, and authenticity, weaving in personal stories and lessons from leaders like Andy Stanley and Stephen Covey. Through powerful examples he challenges listeners to embrace “agency,” defined as the capacity to act freely and intentionally, transcending barriers to shape impactful outcomes in both business and life.
Learn more about the show and our sponsors at Woodard.com/podcast
On this episode, Joe Woodard comes to us from the stage at Scaling New Heights 2025 for the annual practice advancement breakfast address. Joe reflects on the importance of realizing that our days are numbered in order to live with intention, balancing work and life while pursuing meaningful contributions. Through powerful examples—from Winston Churchill to Rudy—he challenges listeners to embrace “agency,” defined as the capacity to act freely and intentionally, transcending barriers to shape impactful outcomes in both business and life.
Learn more about the show and our sponsors at Woodard.com/podcast
On this episode Joe Woodard is interviewed by Matt Tate, CEO of Decimal, about how accounting and bookkeeping firm owners can scale past the “messy middle” and into million-dollar practices. Joe emphasizes defining an ideal client, building outcome-driven service offerings, and pricing based on value rather than effort. He breaks down the path to $1M as achievable with just 32 right-fit clients, and explains how process, tech, outsourcing, and mindset shifts—especially moving from technician to business owner—are key to scalable success.
Learn more about the show and our sponsors at Woodard.com/podcast
On this episode Heather speaks with Jennifer Wilson, Partner and Co-Founder of ConvergenceCoaching®, LLC, about the sweeping influence of private equity (PE) in the accounting profession and what it means for firm culture, leadership, and client relationships. Jennifer explains how PE’s drive for rapid growth and profit could clash with accounting's traditional values, which prioritize people and community alongside shareholders. They explore the challenges of integrating firms, managing change, and preserving trusted client relationships in an evolving landscape.
About Jennifer WilsonJennifer Wilson is a nationally recognized accounting profession thought leader and speaker advocating for future leaders and driving firm innovation. You can connect with Jennifer at jen@convergencecoaching.com as well as on LinkedIn, Facebook, X/Twitter, and Instagram.
Thank you to our show sponsor, Anchor! Anchor is the free-to-use and easy-to-trust platform reinventing how accounting firms handle proposals, invoices and payments, all for the same $5 per transaction since day one.
Learn more about the show and our sponsors at Woodard.com/podcast
On this episode Joe and Heather speak about conquering the email inbox using the “Zero Inbox” lifestyle and how it transforms both productivity and peace of mind. Joe walks listeners through a practical, judgment-free system based on David Allen’s productivity method using the four D's—Delete, Delegate, Do, and Defer—while Heather shares real-world encouragement for anyone overwhelmed by digital clutter.
Referenced during the show:
- David Allen says, "You can have a mind like water if you will place everything into a system that you trust and you check regularly that is prioritized and is on time horizons."
- Getting Things Done by David Allen (catch him at Scaling New Heights)
TV and Movie Quote:
- Heather quoted Batman Begins
- Joe quoted The Matrix: Reloaded
Book of the Week:
- Good to Great by Jim Collins
Favorite Social Posts:
- Heather mentioned Erin Reese on LinkedIn
- Joe mentioned Brenda C. CPA on X/Twitter
The Woodard Report Article of the Week:
- Transforming SOPs from a Burden to a Competitive Advantage by Brandy Jordan
Thank you to our show sponsor, Canopy! Unclunk your firm with Canopy, the fully integrated practice management that helps accountants build the firm they always wanted. The suite includes client and document management, workflow, time and billing, engagements and proposals, and more. Check out GetCanopy.com.
Learn more about the show and our sponsors at Woodard.com/podcast
On this episode, Heather speaks with Damon Pike from BDO about how businesses, especially accounting professionals, can advise clients on managing the complexities of current tariffs. Damon highlights the critical need for companies to meticulously track customs duties. He also stresses the importance of keeping accurate documentation and understanding the timeline for filing refund claims in the event of tariffs being invalidated, though he advises small firms to seek expert partners for these specialized and time-consuming processes.
About Damon Pike Damon founded the Customs and International Trade Services (CITS) group within BDO's International Tax practice in 2019. With 36 years of experience helping multinational companies navigate the complex rules governing the cross-border movement of goods and services, he now serves as the Technical Practice Leader for the firm’s CITS team to support their mission of providing end-to-end global consulting services for all aspects of import/export planning and compliance.
Thank you to our show sponsor, CorpNet! CorpNet is the trusted leader in business formation and compliance services, offering one of the best tools for accountants, CPAs, and tax professionals nationwide — the CorpNet Partner Program. 10X your firms revenue by helping clients form a business, register for payroll taxes, maintain compliance, and more.
Learn more about the show and our sponsors at Woodard.com/podcast
On this episode Joe speaks with Heather about identifying and removing toxic clients who undermine accounting and advisory practices. Joe shares a vivid metaphor—likening bad clients to termites in a home—and outlines a checklist to help firms define their ideal client profile based on profitability, behavior, scalability, and alignment with firm systems.
TV and Movie Quote:
- Heather quoted Thelma and Louise
- Joe quoted Presumed Innocent
Book of the Week:
- The Everyday Hero Manifesto by Robin Sharma
Favorite Social Posts:
- Heather mentioned Candy Bellau on LinkedIn
- Joe mentioned The Soul of Enterprise on X/Twitter
The Woodard Report Article of the Week:
- Say Less, Lead Better: Coaching in Real Life by Brandy Jordan
Thank you to our show sponsor, CorpNet! CorpNet is the trusted leader in business formation and compliance services, offering one of the best tools for Accountants, CPAs, and Tax Professionals nationwide: the CorpNet Partner Program. 10X your firm’s revenue by helping clients form a business, register for payroll taxes, maintain compliance, and more.
Learn more about the show and our sponsors at Woodard.com/podcast
On this episode Joe speaks with Geni Whitehouse about overcoming internal obstacles like perfectionism and imposter syndrome to create meaningful change in both life and career. Geni shares her journey from being a high-achieving CPA to finding fulfillment as a keynote speaker, urging listeners to pause, reflect, and ask themselves what they truly want. Her keynote at Scaling New Heights 2025 will challenge professionals to embrace self-awareness, trust their instincts, and courageously chart a new path that aligns with their values.
About Geni Whitehouse Geni is a keynote presenter, winery consultant, author, advisory trainer, and President of the ITA. You can learn more about her at GeniWhitehouse.com
Thank you to our show sponsor, Canopy! Unclunk your firm with Canopy, the fully integrated practice management that helps accountants build the firm they always wanted. The suite includes client and document management, workflow, time and billing, engagements and proposals, and more. Check out getcanopy.com.
Learn more about the show and our sponsors at Woodard.com/podcast
On this episode, Joe speaks with Chaunté about how her journey as a four-time Olympian and breast cancer survivor has reshaped her understanding of resilience, faith, and purpose. She shares how her athletic discipline, mindset, and spiritual grounding prepared her to train for the Olympics even during chemotherapy—motivated not by medals, but by her mission to raise breast cancer awareness. From embracing failure in the high jump to facing life’s heaviest challenges head-on, Chaunté offers business professionals powerful lessons on showing up, stretching limits, and rising from setbacks to stand for something greater.
Thank you to our show sponsor, Canopy!Unclunk your firm with Canopy, the fully integrated practice management that helps accountants build the firm they always wanted. The suite includes client and document management, workflow, time and billing, engagements and proposals, and more. Check out getcanopy.com.
Learn more about the show and our sponsors at Woodard.com/podcast
On this episode Joe speaks with Liz Scott about the ongoing AI revolution in the accounting profession and how it's transforming the way firms handle data, reduce burnout, and deliver client insights. Liz breaks AI down into three key “buckets”: bookkeeping, data review, and client deliverables—explaining how each is being reshaped by AI-powered tools. They also discuss how AI enables accountants to move beyond compliance into impactful advisory roles.
About Liz Scott Liz Scott advocates for the future of accounting technology and community, assisting accounting firms in utilizing AI, automation, and cybersecurity. Learn more about Liz at https://www.lizscottconsulting.com
Thank you to our show sponsor, Canopy! Unclunk your firm with Canopy, the fully integrated practice management that helps accountants build the firm they always wanted. The suite includes client and document management, workflow, time and billing, engagements and proposals, and more. Check out getcanopy.com.
Learn more about the show and our sponsors at Woodard.com/podcast
On this episode Joe speaks with Heather about how to maximize your return on investment from conferences by attending with intention, identifying clear learning goals, and planning connections in advance. They dive into the “three threes” approach—three skills to learn, three tools to explore, and three people to meet—and emphasize the importance of self-awareness, authenticity, and pacing to make the most of any event.
Link mentioned in the show:
- The Accounting Cornerstone Foundation Unveils Accounting Conference Scholarships
TV and Movie Quote:
- Heather quoted Battlestar Galactica
- Joe quoted Much Ado about Nothing
Book of the Week:
- Immunity to Change by Robert Kegan and Lisa Laskow Lahey
Favorite Social Posts:
- Heather mentioned Melissa Miller Furgeson on LinkedIn
- Joe mentioned Blake Oliver on X/Twitter
The Woodard Report Article of the Week:
- Top 21 Lessons from Serving on Conference Speaker Committees by Nancy McClelland
Thank you to our show sponsor, Bill, your financial operations platform. Bill is the intelligent way to create and pay bills, send invoices, manage expenses, control budgets and access the credit your business needs to grow all in one platform.
Learn more about the show and our sponsors at Woodard.com/podcast
On this episode Heather speaks with Eric Green, Founder of the Tax Rep Network, about leveraging expert tax representation to empower business advisors in streamlining client services. They delve into how Eric’s extensive experience as a tax attorney and founder of the tax rep network aids in enhancing efficiency and effectiveness in client engagements. Additionally, the conversation explores innovative approaches and practical insights for building trust and delivering superior advisory services.
Thank you to our show sponsor, Brex!Brex accounting partners close clients books faster, earn rewards for referrals and attract new customers all on Brex. Brex's integrated platform provides numerous accounting automation benefits, which enable your accountants to focus on premium advisory services, help clients close the books faster and elevate the overall client experience. To become a Brex accounting firm, visit brex.com/partners/accounting to apply.
Learn more about the show and our sponsors at Woodard.com/podcast
On this episode Joe speaks with Dan Hood, editor-in-chief of Accounting Today, about the latest trends from Accounting Today's research on the Top 100 firms, the explosive growth of Client Accounting Services (CAS), and how firms are adapting to staffing shortages and technological innovation. They dive into why CAS is the future growth engine for accounting firms, how leadership and process changes are critical, and the evolving role of AI as a near-future disruptor in the industry.
Thank you to our show sponsor, Bill! Bill is the intelligent way to create and pay bills, send invoices, manage expenses, control budgets and access the credit your business needs to grow all in one platform.
Learn more about the show and our sponsors at Woodard.com/podcast
On this episode Joe and Heather talk about their recent experience taking a business leadership course on artificial intelligence at Brown University, where they explored the different types of AI—narrow, agentic, and general—and how each impacts the future of accounting. They emphasize that AI is no longer optional for firms; it’s a competitive necessity, especially when paired with strategic data usage. Heather and Joe break down real-world applications—from automating blog writing and client communication to interpreting credit card statements and regulatory implications—urging accountants to experiment with AI now or risk falling behind.
Thank you to our show sponsor, Brex!Brex accounting partners close client books faster, earn rewards for referrals and attract new customers all on Brex. Brex's integrated platform provides numerous accounting automation benefits, which enable your accountants to focus on premium advisory services, help clients close the books faster and elevate the overall client experience. To become a Brex accounting firm visit brex.com/partners/accounting to apply.
Learn more about the show and our sponsors at Woodard.com/podcast
On this episode Joe Woodard speaks with Deb Defer, Director of CAS Consulting at Woodard, about how firms can turn client onboarding from a loss leader into a profitable, strategic phase of their CAS engagements. They explore pricing structures like evergreen retainers, volume-discounted cleanups, and onboarding fees to ensure firms aren’t losing money or undervaluing their services. The episode is packed with actionable advice for firms of all sizes looking to boost MRR and avoid getting stuck in once-a-year cleanup chaos.
Thank you to our show sponsor, Bill — your financial operations platform.Bill is the intelligent way to create and pay bills, send invoices, manage expenses, control budgets and access the credit your business needs to grow, all in one platform.
Learn more about the show and our sponsors at Woodard.com/podcast
On this episode, Heather Satterley chats with Dave Olsen and Shane Rowley from Nimbl about a big question many accounting pros wrestle with: Should you keep your firm small and flexible or scale it up? Dave shares his personal journey of growing Nimbl from a solo practice into a thriving business with over 100 team members, while Shane talks openly about how he drove Nimbl's growth to $6 million in revenue (and what he learned along the way). You'll hear real-world stories, practical tips, and honest reflections about the challenges and rewards of growth, keeping your firm profitable without burning out, and protecting your firm's culture—even when things get messy. Whether you're ready to scale or happy staying small, this episode will help you find the clarity you need to build the business you truly want.
Resources mentioned during the show:
- What You Do Is Who You Are: How to Create Your Business Culture by Ben Horowitz
Thank you to our show sponsor, CorpNet! CorpNet is the trusted leader in business formation and compliance services, offering one of the best tools for accountants, CPAs and tax professionals nationwide.
Learn more about the show and our sponsors at Woodard.com/podcast
On this episode, Heather speaks with Todd Robinson, Director of Practice Engagement at Woodard, about the evolution of the accounting industry over the past two decades, from the early days of QuickBooks Online to today's AI-driven landscape. They explore the rise of Client Advisory Services (CAS), the growing interest of private equity in accounting firms, and the critical importance of adopting modern technology to stay competitive.
Thank you to our show sponsor, Brex! Brex Accounting Partners close clients’ books faster, earn rewards for referrals, and attract new customers — all on Brex. Brex’s integrated platform provides numerous accounting automation benefits, which enable your accountants to focus on premium advisory services, help clients close the books faster, and elevate the overall client experience. To become a Brex Accounting Firm visit brex.com/partners/accounting to apply.
Learn more about the show and our sponsors at Woodard.com/podcast
On this episode Joe speaks with Heather about why operations should be the next big focus in your practice. Heather emphasizes the importance of documenting and reflecting on current processes to identify areas for improvement. The discussion also covers aligning operational improvements with firm culture, broadening technology views with automation and AI, and practical steps to stay ahead in the coming year.
TV and Movie Quote:
- Heather quoted The Office
- Joe quoted 1923
Book of the Week:
- The e-Myth by Michael Gerber
Favorite Social Posts:
- Heather mentioned Ashley Francis on LinkedIn
- Joe mentioned Caleb Jenkins on X/Twitter
The Woodard Report Article of the Week:
- Spring Cleaning for the Mind: Clearing Clutter for Greater Productivity by Kim Petro
Thank you to our show sponsor, CorpNet! CorpNet is the trusted leader in business formation and compliance services, offering one of the best tools for Accountants, CPAs, and Tax Professionals nationwide: the CorpNet Partner Program. 10X your firm’s revenue by helping clients form a business, register for payroll taxes, maintain compliance, and more.
Learn more about the show and our sponsors at Woodard.com/podcast
On this episode, Joe speaks with Heather about the complexities of trust—how it’s broken, why it happens, and most importantly, how to restore it in business and personal relationships. They outline a five-step approach to rebuilding trust, emphasizing self-awareness, assessing intent, and fostering meaningful resolutions.
TV and Movie Quote:
- Heather quoted Eat, Pray, Love
- Joe quoted Rocky III
Book of the Week:
- The Four Agreements by Don Miguel Ruiz / Janet Mills
Favorite Social Posts:
- Heather mentioned Nancy McClelland on LinkedIn
- Joe mentioned Adam Markowitz on X/Twitter
The Woodard Report Article of the Week:
- Woodard Welcomes Shirley Koss as Community and Member Success Manager
Thank you to our show sponsor, Brex! Brex Accounting Partners close clients’ books faster, earn rewards for referrals, and attract new customers — all on Brex. Brex’s integrated platform provides numerous accounting automation benefits, which enable your accountants to focus on premium advisory services, help clients close the books faster, and elevate the overall client experience. To become a Brex Accounting Firm visit brex.com/partners/accounting to apply.
Learn more about the show and our sponsors at Woodard.com/podcast
On this episode, Heather and Joe talk about seven essential productivity hacks to help accountants and bookkeepers stay sane during the busy season. They cover strategies like the two-minute rule, email automation, mindset shifts, and the importance of setting boundaries to maintain efficiency and well-being. Joe also revisits The Execution Factor by Kim Perrell (from episode 41 of the Woodard Report podcast).
TV and Movie Quote:
- Heather quoted Everything Everywhere All at Once
- Joe quoted Michael Corleone from the Godfather
Book of the Week:
- The Execution Factor by Kim Perrell
- Joe interviewed Kim Perrell on episode 41 of The Woodard Report Podcast
Favorite Social Posts:
- Heather mentioned Matt Tait of Decimal and his post on LinkedIn
- Joe mentioned Greg Kyte on X/Twitter as posted by The Soul of Enterprise
The Woodard Report Article of the Week:
- Executive Orders: The Good, the Bad and the Impact on Business by Ryan Francis
Thank you to our show sponsor, Bill! They are the intelligent way to create and pay bills, send invoices, manage expenses, control budgets, and access the credit your business needs to grow—all on one platform.
Learn more about the show and our sponsors at Woodard.com/podcast
On this episode, Heather and Joe talk about the essentials of building a thriving company culture, breaking it down into three key categories: directional, interactive, and operational. They also discuss the importance of defining a company’s vision, mission, and purpose, fostering trust and servant leadership within teams.
Books discussed in the first segment of the show:
- 5 Dysfunctions of a Team (Lencioni)
- The Advantage (Lencioni)
- The Servant Leader (Hunter)
- Measure What Matters (John Doerr)
- The Speed of Trust (Stephen M.R. Covey)
- Death by Meeting (Patrick Lencioni)
- Start with Why (Simon Sinek)
TV and Movie Quote:
- Heather quoted Severance (Apple TV)
- Joe quoted Real Time with Bill Maher
Book Quote:
- Start with Why: How Great Leaders Inspire Everyone to Take Action by Simon Sinek
The Woodard Report article highlighted during the show:
- 5 Ways We Used AI For Work Last Week: February 2025 Edition
Thank you to our show sponsor, Truewind! Powered by AI, Truewind is a digital staff accountant that never sleeps, never gets sick, and always does its work. Completely predictable capacity planning.
Learn more about the show and our sponsors at Woodard.com/podcast
On this episode Joe speaks with Gene Marks about how the DOGE initiative is shaking up government spending and prompting a reexamination of fiscal policies that impact the accounting profession and small businesses. Gene breaks down the effects of IRS layoffs and ERC uncertainties offering strategic insights for navigating these turbulent economic shifts.
About Gene Marks A past columnist for both The New York Times and The Washington Post, Gene now writes regularly for The Hill, The Philadelphia Inquirer, Forbes, Entrepreneur Magazine, The Washington Times, and The Guardian. Gene has written 5 books on business management, specifically geared towards small and medium sized companies. His most recent is Want More Cash?: 100+ Ideas And Strategies For Increasing Your Company's Cash Flow This Year. Gene owns and operates the Marks Group PC, a highly successful ten-person firm that provides technology and consulting services to small and medium sized businesses. Gene also hosts a very popular podcast with Paychex. To listen to the latest episodes, visit www.paychex.com/podcasts
Resources mentioned during the show
- Gene Marks' consolidated website
- The World Trade Center Association
- Walter Isaacson's biography on Elon Musk
Thank you to our show sponsor, Truewind! Truewind is a next generation AI-powered accounting platform. Adhering to the highest standards of data security, Truewind's close management platform automates routine tasks and finishes your monthly close with time to spare.
Learn more about the show and our sponsors at Woodard.com/podcast
On this episode, Heather speaks with Randy about the latest technology trends from the Consumer Electronics Show (CES). They discuss standout innovations, including AI-powered laptops, wireless monitors, and new productivity tools like foldable screens and ergonomic keyboards. Randy also highlights concerns over the lack of new products from major brands like Nikon and Canon, as well as the evolving role of AI in business security and client data protection.
About Our Guest: Randy Johnston, MCS, has been a leading figure in technology for over 40 years. Inducted into the Accounting Hall of Fame in 2011, he has remained a Top 25 Thought Leader in Accounting from 2011 through 2024. His continued influence in the profession is highlighted by his recognition in the 2024 Accounting Today Top 100 Most Influential People in Accounting—his twenty-first consecutive year on that list. In addition, Randy authors a monthly column and hosts a weekly podcast for The CPA Practice Advisor, contributes to the Journal of Accountancy, writes for various accounting and technology publications, and has published numerous books.
Connect with Randy:
- www.randyjohnston.com
- www.technologybestpractices.com
- www.nmgi.com
- www.k2e.com
Thank you to our show sponsor, Truewind! Truewind is a next generation AI-powered accounting platform. Adhering to the highest standards of data security, Truewind's close management platform automates routine tasks and finishes your monthly close with time to spare.
Learn more about the show and our sponsors at Woodard.com/podcast
On this episode, Joe speaks with Penny Breslin and Damien Greathead about their innovative BOSS (Back Office Support) model, designed to help Client Accounting Services (CAS) practices streamline operations and scale effectively. They discuss key insights from their book, including defining a clear business focus, building the right team, selecting ideal clients, leveraging technology, and refining pricing and communication strategies. By implementing these structured steps, firms can enhance efficiency, improve client relationships, and establish a sustainable, high-performing practice.
Resources:
- It’s NOT Just the Numbers via CPA Trendlines
- CFO Services: A Practical How-To Guide for Accountants by Penny Breslin, Paula White, Damien Greathead
Connect with our guests:
- Connect with Penny on LinkedIn
- Connect with Damien on LinkedIn
Thank you to our show sponsor, Zoho! Zoho is a unique and powerful software suite to transform the way you work. Designed for businesses of all sizes, built by a company that values your privacy.
Learn more about the show and our sponsors at Woodard.com/podcast
On this episode, Joe speaks with Matt Tait, CEO of Decimal, about the integration of AI in the accounting industry, highlighting Decimal's transition to the AI-native ledger platform, Puzzle. Matt shares his thoughts on how Puzzle can automate up to 90% of routine tasks, improve client experiences, and enhance workflow scalability. His perspective on the implied partnership between tech and accounting firms is refreshing and not to be missed.
Episode Resources:
- Connect with Matt Tait on LinkedIn
- Decimal.com - Let Decimal Solve Financial Operations
Thank you to our show sponsor, Zoho!
- Zoho is a unique and powerful software suite to transform the way you work. Designed for businesses of all sizes, built by a company that values your privacy.
Learn more about the show and our sponsors at Woodard.com/podcast
On this episode, Joe and Heather dive into the major trends and challenges shaping 2025 for accounting professionals. They discuss the growing impact of artificial intelligence, policy shifts under the new U.S. presidency, and evolving business models in the industry.
Recommended Reading:
- The Future of the Professions - Daniel Susskin
- 5 Best Books About Artificial Intelligence - The New York Times
TV and Movie Quotes:
- From Heather: RuPaul's Drag Race
- From Joe: The Most Reluctant Convert
Book Segment:
- Revenge of the Tipping Point by Malcolm Gladwell
The Woodard Report article:
- Design Thinking—A Mindset for Firms
Thank you to our show sponsor, Zoho!
- Zoho is a unique and powerful software suite to transform the way you work. Designed for businesses of all sizes, built by a company that values your privacy.
Learn more about the show and our sponsors at Woodard.com/podcast
On this episode, Joe and Heather explore key insights from the 2024 AICPA CAS Benchmark Survey, highlighting the evolution of CPA and non-credentialed practices post-COVID, including growth trends, advisory services, and the increasing role of technology.
- Download the 2024 CAS Benchmark Survey
- Read "Surveying a Shifting Landscape" from The CPA Journal
TV and Movie Quote: Heather quoted Deadpool (so the entire quote is effectively redacted due to language) and Joe quoted X-Men: Days of Future Past
Book Quote: Your Best Year Ever by Michael Hyatt
The Woodard Report article highlighted during the show: ADHD: Beyond the Stereotypes in the Workplace
Thank you to our show sponsor, Zoho!
- Zoho is a unique and powerful software suite to transform the way you work. Designed for businesses of all sizes, built by a company that values your privacy.
Learn more about the show and our sponsors at Woodard.com/podcast
On this episode, Heather speaks with Allanté Collier, founder of Streamline and Scale, about leveraging AI to boost efficiency and scalability in small businesses. They discuss practical ways AI can handle repetitive tasks, enhance marketing strategies, and streamline operations to free up time for growth and creativity.
- Connect with Allanté on LinkedIn
- Streamline & Scale helps Industry Leaders and Organizations build (lean) teams and businesses that run themselves in any economy. Check out this free training for leaders in demand from Streamline and Scale
Thank you to our show sponsor, Zoho!
- Zoho is a unique and powerful software suite to transform the way you work. Designed for businesses of all sizes, built by a company that values your privacy.
Learn more about the show and our sponsors at Woodard.com/podcast
On this episode, Joe and Heather explore the sudden closure and acquisition of Bench, the venture-backed bookkeeping and accounting firm, diving into its implications for the accounting industry, private equity, and an AI-driven future. They also discuss the challenges of balancing client-focused service with profit motives, highlight key takeaways from Andy Stanley's book Better Decisions, Fewer Regrets, and share their favorite quotes and social media insights of the week.
- More about Bench
- TV/Movie quote of the week — Dune: Prophecy
- Book of the week — Better Decisions, Fewer Regrets by Andy Stanley
Thank you to our show sponsor, Zoho!
- Zoho is a unique and powerful software suite to transform the way you work. Designed for businesses of all sizes, built by a company that values your privacy.
Learn more about the show and our sponsors at Woodard.com/podcast
On this episode Heather speaks with Deborah Defer, Director of CAS Consulting at Woodard, about the transformative role of artificial intelligence in the accounting industry. They explore Deborah's extensive career journey, her insights from attending the Digital CPA conference, and the exponential growth in AI adoption. Most importantly, they talk about the importance of blending technology with human expertise.
Thank you to our show sponsor, Zoho!
- Zoho is a unique and powerful software suite to transform the way you work. Designed for businesses of all sizes, built by a company that values your privacy.
Learn more about the show and our sponsors at Woodard.com/podcast
In this episode, Joe Woodard talks to Ron Baker about the concept of moral injury as a more accurate explanation for what is often misdiagnosed as burnout, especially in the accounting and medical professions. They explore how moral injury arises when professionals face systemic or situational pressures that force them to act against their deeply held beliefs, creating anxiety and dissatisfaction. This issue is more profound than the surface-level symptoms of burnout and is rooted in the disconnect between the transactional nature of modern work environments and the purpose-driven calling many professionals feel.
You can learn more about Ron Baker at TheSoulOfEnterprise.com and Verasage.com
Thank you to our show sponsor, Truewind!
- Truewind is a next generation AI-powered accounting platform. Adhering to the highest standards of data security, Truewind’s close management platform automates routine tasks and finishes your monthly close with time to spare.
Learn more about the show and our sponsors at Woodard.com/podcast
On this episode, Heather Satterley interviews Danielle Bornowski, the CEO of DQB Strategies, who is a marketing strategist helping business owners make smart marketing decisions that don't feel like slimy sales. Danielle believes that customer reviews are an unsung hero in marketing that can do a lot to help people grow their business. For professional firms, they help to document the customer journey and inform services, which in turn, allows accounting pros to provide a unique experience and set themselves apart from everyone else.
From DBQ Strategies, here is a copy-and-paste template you can use to ask for customer reviews:
- DBQstrategies.marketing/reviews
Thank you to our show sponsor, Truewind!
- Truewind is a next generation AI-powered accounting platform. Adhering to the highest standards of data security, Truewind’s close management platform automates routine tasks and finishes your monthly close with time to spare.
Learn more about the show and our sponsors at Woodard.com/podcast
On this episode, Joe Woodard and Heather Satterley discuss the recent U.S. election. They focus on how business advisors, leaders, and individuals can manage political shifts in a way that prioritizes understanding, respect, and stability within professional and personal relationships.
As always, the Woodard organization remains apolitical and fosters an internal environment where varying perspectives can thrive.
Books mentioned during this episode:
- Radical Candor by Kim Scott
- Infinite Game by Simon Sinek
Thank you to our show sponsor, Truewind!
- Truewind is a next generation AI-powered accounting platform. Adhering to the highest standards of data security, Truewind’s close management platform automates routine tasks and finishes your monthly close with time to spare.
Learn more about the show and our sponsors at Woodard.com/podcast
On this show, Heather Satterley speaks with Candy Bellau about her personal journey in the accounting industry, touching on resilience, pricing, and the power of community. Candy shares valuable insights from her experiences, especially on overcoming business struggles, and offers guidance for accountants facing similar challenges. Some of the wide ranging topics discussed in this episode:
- Candy's Career Background
- Building Resilience
- Community Support
- Overcoming Pricing Struggles
- Importance of Mindset
- Creating a Positive Work Environment
- Practical Advice for Accountants
Thank you to our show sponsor!
- Rightworks — All your accounting apps, unified in the cloud
Learn more about the show and our sponsors at Woodard.com/podcast
On this show, Heather and Joe discuss the Intuit "Tax Breakup" advertising campaign and the industry reaction. Here are some important links for this special edition of the Woodard Report Podcast:
- The Tax Breakup Commercial
- What Intuit’s 2024 Investor Day Means for ProAdvisors in an AI-Driven World
- Intuit's Tax Breakup Campaign Sparks Strong Response from the NATP
- Update: Intuit Responds to Controversial Tax Ad Following NATP Feedback
Thank you to our show sponsor!
- Rightworks — All your accounting apps, unified in the cloud
Learn more about the show and our sponsors at Woodard.com/podcast
On this show, Joe Woodard speaks with Jina Etienne about reimagining and redefining Diversity, Equity, and Inclusion (DEI), as well as exploring its broader implications beyond common perceptions.
Jina is CEO of Etienne Consulting, LLC. She is a consultant, coach, facilitator, and speaker on inclusivity and belonging. Jina's work can be found at Etienne Consulting where her mission is to shatter unseen barriers.
Additional work from Jina:
- 2024 season of D&I One-on-One
- CPA Trendlines Podcast on decoupling DEIB
- "A Holistic Approach to Diversity"
- Podcast on ADHD called "The Distracted Elephant"
Thank you to our show sponsor!
- Rightworks — All your accounting apps, unified in the cloud
Learn more about the show and our sponsors at Woodard.com/podcast
On this show, Heather Satterley speaks with William "Bill" Murphy about the newly announced Intuit Enterprise Suite, a major release targeting mid-market businesses aimed at companies with sales over $3 million and up to 250 employees.
Bill Murphy's work, including his predictions about Intuit Enterprise Suite prior to it being officially announced, can be found at Insightful Accounting using this link.
Thank you to our show sponsor!
- Rightworks — All your accounting apps, unified in the cloud
Learn more about the show and our sponsors at Woodard.com/podcast
On this show, Heather Satterley and Joe Woodard discuss the intricacies of outsourcing and offshoring strategies, focusing on how businesses can leverage these approaches during a staffing crisis. Here are the key points discussed in the episode:
- Outsourcing and Offshoring: Joe and Heather went through the details of different models depending on company size and can even addressed how this practice can be great for small firms and solo practitioners.
- TV and Movie Segment: Heather is rewatching Game of Thrones and loves this quote from Daenerys Targaryen: "I'm not going to stop the wheel, I'm going to break it". Joe talked about this quote from Rings of Power: "What cannot be known hollows the mind. Fill it not with guesswork."
- Book Segment: Dare to Lead by Brene Brown. The author also has a great TEDTalk called, "The power of vulnerability"
- Social Media Segment: Heather mentioned this X post from @LilyTranTax and Joe mentioned a random X post with an amazing play on words. Here is a link to the image Joe referenced.
- Woodard Report Article Recommendation: Heather recommended "Thriving in Accounting: The Importance of Lifelong Learning"
Thank you to our show sponsor!
- Rightworks — All your accounting apps, unified in the cloud
Learn more about the show and our sponsors at Woodard.com/podcast
On this show, Heather Satterley speaks to David Hartley of Anders CPAs + Advisors about the evolving role of technology in the accounting industry and the importance of innovation for young professionals.
Read David's articled called, "Top 10 Reasons Today is the Best Day Ever to be a Young CPA"
About David Hartley: Dave is the partner-in-charge of advisory at Anders with over three decades of experience serving both public and privately-held businesses, showcasing his unique blend of technological expertise and CPA proficiency. With a background in C-suite leadership and consulting, he specializes in helping middle-market businesses grow while focusing on innovation and technology. Dave’s cumulative experience, gained across a variety of roles in multiple industries, allows him to contribute to building the CPA firm of the future at Anders. In this capacity, he steers the advisory practice, orchestrating its strategic direction and propelling growth. As a former CIO, his experience enables him to find innovative technology uses to make businesses more successful. His insights are featured on LinkedIn, at industry conferences and in popular publications. By sharing his thought leadership across numerous platforms, Dave empowers fellow CPAs to revolutionize their firms, seamlessly integrate technology and adopt novel business paradigms.
Thank you to our show sponsor!
- Rightworks — All your accounting apps, unified in the cloud
Learn more about the show and our sponsors at Woodard.com/podcast
On this show, Heather Satterley and Joe Woodard discuss courageous journeys within the accounting profession.
- Caleb Jenkins: Starting his career in accounting at just 13, Caleb Jenkins began attending conferences early and excelled from a young age. His work expanded into mission trips where he provided accounting aid to organizations in Haiti.
- Monica Davis: After a demanding corporate accounting job and personal health crisis, Monica courageously shifted to a bookkeeping role, eventually starting her own firm. Despite initial setbacks including job loss due to COVID-19 layoffs, she utilized continuous learning and networking opportunities to successfully build her business.
- Michelle Mitchell: Michelle shared her journey of returning to the workforce and starting her own firm while managing multiple sclerosis. She chose to keep her condition private while building her practice, demonstrating strength and resilience.
Joe and Heather also discussed their regular show segments.
- TV and Movie Segment: Joe recently watched Dark Matter on Apple TV+. It's a deep sci-fi show for those who are fans. Heather has gone back into the catalog and really enjoyed re-watching The Fellowship of the Ring.
- Book Segment: Joe discussed "David and Goliath: Underdogs, Misfits, and the Art of Battling Giants" by Malcolm Gladwell
- Social Media Segment: Both Joe and Heather talked about ALL of the amazing posts from Scaling New Heights and how many of them are focused on community and contain words of encouragement.
- Woodard Report Article Recommendation: Heather recommended the "Top 50 Accounting Services Practices"
Thank you to our show sponsor!
- Rightworks — All your accounting apps, unified in the cloud
Learn more about the show and our sponsors at Woodard.com/podcast
On this show, Heather Satterley speaks with Robert Nordlander about his diverse experience as a CPA, a retired IRS criminal investigator, and a Certified Fraud Examiner, sharing insights from his training, his career, and his work as an author.
Here are links to Robert's books:
- Erase the Penalty: A Tax Professional's Guide to Abatement
- Criminal Tax Secrets: What Every Defense Attorney Should Know: An Insider’s Guide to Evaluating Every Stage of a Criminal Tax Investigation
- Unpaid Payroll Taxes: A Time Bomb You Can Defuse
To learn more about Robert, please visit Nordlander CPA, PLLC
Thank you to our show sponsor!
- Rightworks — All your accounting apps, unified in the cloud
Learn more about the show and our sponsors at Woodard.com/podcast
On this show, Heather Satterley and Joe Woodard talk about The Top 50 Accounting Services Practice Awards. The awards, administered by Woodard® , recognize and honor those practices that most exemplify the characteristics of a top-performing CAS, accounting, or bookkeeping practice. The awards recognize accounting practices as an organization rather than individuals within the practice.
Nominations will open in November, applications in January, and the selection process in February.
Joe and Heather also discussed their regular show segments. * TV and Movie Segment: Joe recently watched House of Lies and Heather revisited a favorite movie, The Curious Case of Benjamin Button. * Book Segment: Joe discussed The Advantage by Patrick Lencioni * Social Media Segment: Heather enjoyed this LinkedIn post from Terrell Turner and Joe shared an X post from Luke Templin. * Woodard Report Article Recommendation: Heather recommended 4 Inspiring Vacation Types for Accounting Professionals
Thank you to our show sponsor!
- Rightworks — All your accounting apps, unified in the cloud
Learn more about the show and our sponsors at Woodard.com/podcast
On this show, Heather Satterley and Joe Woodard talk about the importance of revising pricing strategies for existing clients, an issue critical to any firm that has been in business for more than one year. Here are the key points they covered in the podcast:
- The Seven Step Revenue Reset Process: This is a high level discussion to get you thinking. The full revenue reset process is available to Woodard members. More information is at this link: https://www.woodard.com/membership-overview
- TV and Movie Segment: As always, Joe and Heather share quotes from recent shows they've watched and bring it back around to a relevant business topic. Joe recently watched The Acolyte and Heather binged House of the Dragon.
- Book Segment: Heather discussed "The Courage to Be Disliked," which talks about Alfred Adler's psychology theory focused on future-oriented living over being tethered to past traumas.
- Social Media Segment: Both Heather and Joe shared a social post, including one about the need for every business to have a specialist akin to an Olympic athlete who excels in one area. The AICPA Client Termination Letter Checklist can be found at this link.
- Woodard Report Article Recommendation: Heather recommended an article on managing seasonal revenue spikes for bookkeeping firms.
Thank you to our show sponsor!
- Rightworks — All your accounting apps, unified in the cloud
Learn more about the show and our sponsors at Woodard.com/podcast
On this show, Joe Woodard speaks with Yashwanth Madhusudan, co-Founder and CEO of Fyle, about the complexities of managing business expenses in today's digital and diversified financial environment.
Here are a few key points from their conversation:
- The Evolution of Expense Management
- Role of Credit Cards in Businesses
- Challenges of Multiple Credit Cards
- Impact of Spend Management on Accounting Practices
This episode wraps up with a summary of the key benefits of using advanced spend management systems like Fyle to handle the complexities of modern business expenses.
Thank you to our show sponsor!
- Rightworks — All your accounting apps, unified in the cloud
Learn more about the show and our sponsors at Woodard.com/podcast
On this show, Joe and Heather talk about the evolving nature of bookkeeping and its future, alongside discussions on Heather's recent conference travels.
Here are a few key points from their conversation:
- The Future of Bookkeeping
- Adapting to Industry Changes
- Personal Reflections and Predictions
- Heather's Conference Insights
This episode is a deep dive into the transformation of bookkeeping, encouraging professionals to anticipate changes and adapt strategically.
Thank you to our show sponsor!
- Rightworks — All your accounting apps, unified in the cloud
Learn more about the show and our sponsors at Woodard.com/podcast
On this show, Joe speaks with Nicole Davis. Nicole is a practioner who lives in your world every day doing tax and accounting work as a firm owner dealing with all the same struggles you deal with. She has an truly inspiring story to tell about her life as an accountant.
About Nicole Davis:
Nicole (Butler) Davis is the founder and CEO at Butler-Davis Tax & Accounting, LLC. She brings almost two decades of experience in accounting, tax, financial management and advisory services to clients of all sizes in real estate, construction, retail, financial and legal services industries. Nicole specializes in tax strategy and planning, small business accounting, pharmacy accounting and construction accounting.
Here are a few key points from their conversation:
- Nicole's Background and Career Start
- Her Health Challenges
- What did Treatment and Recovery Look Like?
- Emotional and Business Insights
- Advice and Encouragement
Check out Nicole's website:
- Butler-Davis Tax & Accounting
Thank you to our show sponsor!
- Rightworks — All your accounting apps, unified in the cloud
Learn more about the show and our sponsors at Woodard.com/podcast
On this show, Heather speaks with Amy Franko about her journey and insights as a sales strategist. Amy is an expert in modern sales and author of the best-selling book The Modern Seller.
About Amy Franko:
Amy Franko helps organizations transform sales culture, ignite sales growth, and build high-impact leaders through her strategic selling programs. Recognized as a LinkedIn Top Sales Voice, Amy is the leading expert in modern sales strategies—including in-demand sales training programs, sales strategy, and as a sales keynote speaker and leadership keynote speaker. She guides growth-oriented organizations to significantly improve their results through B2B sales strategy and sales team skill development.
Here are a few key points from their conversation:
- Selling Skills
- Leadership and Development in Your Firm
- The Intrapreneurial Approach
- Networking and Referrals
Check out Amy's book and website:
- AmyFranko.com
- The Modern Seller
Thank you to our show sponsor!
- Rightworks — All your accounting apps, unified in the cloud
Learn more about the show and our sponsors at Woodard.com/podcast
On this show, Heather and Joe speak about the recent FTC ruling banning non-compete agreements and its implications for the accounting and broader business sectors. Here are the main points discussed:
Here are a few key points from their conversation:
- FTC's Ban on Non-Compete Agreements — As of April 24, 2024, the FTC has banned non-compete agreements, impacting many industries, including accounting. This rule affects businesses under FTC jurisdiction in the U.S., with certain exceptions like non-profits and businesses operating entirely overseas.
- Scope and Exceptions — The ban targets all types of workers, including employees, contractors, and sole proprietors. Some businesses tried to argue for exceptions, but none were granted specific relief. However, non-profits have different standards based on their operational nature.
- Broader Implications — Joe and Heather discussed the noncompete ruling factually and also share their views on how this ruling could affect business dynamics, particularly the balance of power between large and small businesses, and the mobility of workers within the accounting industry.
Important links:
- The safe harbor language mentioned by Joe at the 22 minute mark of the podcast can be found at this link.
- FTC press release
- FTC final rule
Thank you to our show sponsors!
- Expensify — The expense management app that does it all, for every business
- Rightworks — All your accounting apps, unified in the cloud
Learn more about the show and our sponsors at Woodard.com/podcast
On this show, Heather speaks with Naomi Granger and Bruce Anderson about the cannabis industry from a financial and regulatory standpoint.
About Naomi: Naomi Granger, CPA, MBA, is a seasoned accounting professional with over 18 years of experience, who has dedicated the last seven years to serving the cannabis industry exclusively. Naomi's passion for this growing industry has led her to work with dozens of operators and provide training to over 700 accounting professionals eager to expand their knowledge and skills in servicing cannabis clients.
About Bruce: Bruce Andersen founded CannabisCPA.Tax which is a premier boutique resource to the legal cannabis industry in the areas of tax, audit, accounting, and consulting. The firm is based in Los Angeles with the bulk of its client base in California. The firm also has clients in twenty other cannabis friendly states. The firm’s client base includes cultivators, distributors, retailers, and manufacturers. It is a division of AndersenCPA.Com.
Here are a few key points from their conversation:
- Growth and Complexity of the Cannabis Industry
- Navigating Legal and Regulatory Frameworks
- Accounting and Banking Challenges in the Industry
- Future Outlook and Growth Potential of the Industry
- Education and Resources for Accountants through the National Association of Cannabis Accounting and Tax Professionals (NACAT Pros)
Thank you to our show sponsor!
- Rightworks — All your accounting apps, unified in the cloud
Learn more about the show and our sponsors at Woodard.com/podcast
On this show, Heather speaks with Kelly Richmond Pope about her intriguing journey into forensic accounting, her experiences with fraud, and the human elements that complicate financial crimes. Here are a few key points from their conversation:
- Kelly Richmond Pope's Background
- Her Early Interest in Accounting
- A Personal Anecdotes of Learning About Fraud
- Professional Encounters with Fraud
- Discussion on Whistleblowers
- Impact of Fraud on Victims and the Role of Emotional Connection
- Advice on Vigilance Against Fraud
- Changing Dynamics in the Accounting Profession
- Combining Passions and Careers
Kelly's work includes:
- Fool Me Once - A book by Kelly on Amazon
- All the Queen's Horses - A documentary by Kelly available on YouTube
- More accountants are leaving the field than joining. What’s going on? - A BigThink talk by Kelly
Thank you to our show sponsor!
- Rightworks — All your accounting apps, unified in the cloud
Learn more about the show and our sponsors at Woodard.com/podcast
On this show, Joe speaks with Randy Crabtree about the critical elements of fostering a positive company culture, its impact on professional mental health, and its significance in the business environment. Randy Crabtree, co-founder of Tri-Merit Specialty Tax, host of the Unique CPA podcast, and a renowned speaker in the accounting industry, shares his insights and experiences on building a culture that promotes mental wellness and productivity. Here are the key points from their conversation:
- The Importance of Leadership in Cultivating Company Culture
- Defining Positive Company Culture
- Micromanagement vs. Empowerment
- The Balance Between Process and Flexibility
- Outcome-Based Work Environment
- Employee Empowerment and Role Fit
- The Financial Benefits of a Positive Culture
- Diversity and Inclusivity in Building Company Culture
Don't forget to check out the book mentioned during the podcast.
- Measure What Matters by John Doerr
Thank you to our show sponsors!
- Expensify — The expense management app that does it all, for every business
- Rightworks — All your accounting apps, unified in the cloud
Learn more about the show and our sponsors at Woodard.com/podcast
On this episode, Heather and Joe discuss how we do not always get things right with technology. Through experience (and a few genuine mistakes), they share the 5 technology fails most prevalent in your firm. They are:
- Locally stored files
- Lack of security (policies, solutions, and systems)
- Lack of process
- Old hardware
- Lack of vetting with software solutions (e.g. SOC2 or equal standards)
As a bonus, here is an IRS document called, "Creating a Written Information Security Plan for your Tax & Accounting Practice"
TV/Movie Segment
- “We’re not just numbers in a spreadsheet. We’re people with lives, families.” – Christine Bates from Mr. Bates vs The Post Office
- “Lawyers are the swords of this century. Words are weapons now. I need you to learn how to use them.” – John Dutton from Yellowstone
Book Segment
- Firm Forward by Edi Osborne
- Amazon link
Favorite Social Posts
- "The trick isn’t to get away from the pain. The trick is to find something so important that the pain ceases to matter at all." —Mark Manson on Twitter/X
The Woodard Report Article
- 4 Key Questions Bookkeepers Have for Their Clients' Tax Professional
Thank you to our show sponsors!
- Expensify — The expense management app that does it all, for every business
- Rightworks — All your accounting apps, unified in the cloud
Learn more about the show and our sponsors at Woodard.com/podcast
On this episode, Heather and Joe discuss Beneficial Ownership Information (BOI) requirements and how they may — or may not — affect your firm. This new compliance reporting requirement for businesses is meant to enhance transparency but it comes with a number of questions and caveats.
TV and Movie Quotes mentioned:
- Resident Alien (TV)
- Blackberry (movie)
Books mentioned:
- Title: The Ideal Team Player
- Author: Patrick Lencioni
- Amazon Link: https://a.co/d/6zzDYA5
Favorite Social Posts:
- https://twitter.com/JStaatsCPA/status/1761085927345242459
- https://www.linkedin.com/posts/adriandparker_your-company-doesnt-have-a-diversity-problem-activity-7168981738910601216-9iMh/
Thank you to our show sponsors: Expensify — The expense management app that does it all, for every business Rightworks — All your accounting apps, unified in the cloud
Learn more about the show and our sponsors at Woodard.com/podcast
On this episode, Joe speaks with Dave Kersting, CEO of Capovario. Dave drew an incredible response from the audience at Scaling New Heights by delivering a knockout presentation based on his personal life experiences and how those experiences have helped shape his business sense. Community is at the core of both Dave's conversation with Joe and his business, Capovario.
Thank you to our show sponsor: Expensify — the expense management app that does it all, for every business
Learn more about the show and our sponsors at Woodard.com/podcast
On this episode Joe is joined by one of the most esteemed minds in the world of physics, Dr. Michio Kaku. He will be joining us on stage this year at Scaling New Heights!
Dr. Kaku has written several books including The Physics of the Impossible. He has appeared on the History Channel television show, The Universe. His most recent works include information about Artificial Intelligence, quantum computing, robotics in business, and the impact these changing technologies have on culture.
Most recently, he wrote the book Quantum Supremacy: How the Quantum Computer Revolution Will Change Everything
Thank you to our show sponsor: Expensify — the expense management app that does it all, for every business
Learn more about the show and our sponsors at Woodard.com/podcast
What is it that sets you apart from competitors? That is, what is the secret sauce that your firm brings to the world? There are several ways to differentiate your practice from the rest of the competition so in this episode Joe and Heather dive into how you stand out. If you don't currently stand out, how should you? Ultimately, this requires you to answer the question, "What is your vision, mission, and purpose?"
(Hint: Being the low cost leader is not the answer.)
Thank you to our show sponsor: Expensify — the expense management app that does it all, for every business Learn more about the show and our sponsors at Woodard.com/podcast
Is you price the right price and what are the hidden costs that cause you to be less profitable than you should be? This episode is based on the strategic pricing workshop offered by Woodard. We've seen people go through the workshop and find $50,000 to $75,000 in underpricing (or more!). The people who come to this workshop have no idea how grossly underpriced their services can be. Overcome the fear factor and learn from Joe and Heather about how to take action.
Thank you to our show sponsor: Expensify — the expense management app that does it all, for every business Learn more about the show and our sponsors at Woodard.com/podcast
On this episode, Heather and Joe talk about the psychodynamics of client relationships, otherwise known as taking the power back in client relationships. There is a pyschological power struggle in any relationship and it takes on a unique angle when it comes to Client Accounting Services. This isn't about a power trip or ego struggle. This is all about balance.
Thank you to our show sponsor: Expensify — the expense management app that does it all, for every business Learn more about the show and our sponsors at Woodard.com/podcast
On this episode, Heather speaks with Michelle Mitchell of Mitchell Consulting. Michelle seeks to create financial freedom for women entrepreneurs by bridging the gap in their knowledge to create confident CEOs. Heather and Michelle talk about gender parity and women in accounting — both what we have been doing and what we should be doing to push the needle.
Thank you to our show sponsor: Expensify — the expense management app that does it all, for every business Learn more about the show and our sponsors at Woodard.com/podcast
On this episode, Heather speaks with Ingrid Edstrom. She's known as the Priestess of Profits and co-founder of the Accounting Alchemy network. As the Priestess of Profits, she offers consulting services for Tours & Activities businesses, speaks publicly, and provides leading-edge accountant education services, resources and consulting to businesses in need.
Thank you to our show sponsor: Expensify — the expense management app that does it all, for every business Learn more about the show and our sponsors at Woodard.com/podcast
On this episode, Heather speaks with Sharrin Fuller of Glass Wallet Ventures. Sharrin shares her experience as the CEO of Glass Wallet Ventures and a Managing Partner in two thriving accounting firms. She's an exit expert and runs a program that helps you go from Scaleable to Saleable.
Thank you to our show sponsor:
Expensify — the expense management app that does it all, for every business Learn more about the show and our sponsors at Woodard.com/podcast
On this episode, Joe and Heather talk about failure. It's something we all experience in our lives, usually multiple times. The way you approach failure sets you up for success! This is a FUN, EXCITING topic and we shouldn't fear failure because doing so holds us back from achieving incredible success.
Thank you to our show sponsors:
Expensify — the expense management app that does it all, for every business Fyle — easy expense management via text messaging
Learn more about the show and our sponsors at Woodard.com/podcast
On this episode, Joe speaks with Bob Lewis, one of the top 100 most influential individuals in the industry as recognized by Accounting Today. Bob is a mergers and acquisitons expert. He has a tremendous reputation with the top 200 accounting firms and what he is finding is that the top 500 firms are now buying the smaller, non-credentialed firms.
What is driving this trend and what is the impact on your business? Listen to find out!
Thank you to our show sponsors:
Expensify — the expense management app that does it all, for every business Fyle — easy expense management via text messaging
Learn more about the show and our sponsors at Woodard.com/podcast
On this episode, Heather and Joe talk about the future of Client Accounting and Advisory Services.
The future of CAS (CAAS) will be a series of fusions:
- The general ledger and workflow solutions fusion
- The client communications and workflow fusion
- The fusion between humans and bots
- The fusion between credentialed and non-credentialed professionals
- The fusion between real and virtual worlds
- The fusion between accounting and advisory (for real this time)
Thank you to our show sponsors:
- Expensify — the expense management app that does it all, for every business
- Fyle — easy expense management via text messaging
Learn more about the show and our sponsors at Woodard.com/podcast
On this episode, Heather and Joe talk about things that help accountants with various things, otherwise known as process improvement strategies or process optimization. We all have process but the question is, "How do we manage process?"
Thank you to our show sponsors:
- Expensify — the expense management app that does it all, for every business
- Fyle — easy expense management via text messaging
Learn more about the show and our sponsors at Woodard.com/podcast
On this episode Joe speaks with Dawn Brolin who is trying to LOSE clients. Has she lost her mind? Listen to Dawn talk about serving 250 clients, doing average work, and coming to the realization that there is a better way.
On this episode Joe speaks with Blake Oliver of Earmark and The Accounting Podcast. They start with a conversation about Intuit Assist and then dive deeper into the topic of general artificial intelligence.
On this episode Heather and Joe talk about change management strategies because as Joe jokes, "We all love change." Actually, people don't dislike change. They dislike being changed. So how can we be better with change? Joe and Heather have some great advice for you.
On this episode Heather and Joe talk about service excellence and the 10 barriers between your practice and performing distinctive, powerful, high impact services that are wealth generating for your clients.
On this episode Heather is joined by Dr. Sabrina Starling, The Business Psychologist and author of the How To Hire The Best series, The 4 Week Vacation®, and founder of Tap the Potential.
On this episode Joe speaks with Randy Johnston, co-founder of NGMI about the quantum computing revolution. Randy has been in the business of providing managed services before the term existed. Now, Randy is one of the nations leading thought leaders in the accounting industry.
On this episode Heather speaks with Jeff Seibert, co-founder and CEO of Digits. Jeff joined us on stage at Scaling New Heights for an amazing keynote and talked about The Social Dilemma (the documentary) and the future of artificial intelligence. This interview is a continuation of that great keynote conversation.
On this episode Joe and Heather talk about innovation in accounting firms, both the importance of innovation and how we can cultivate a culture of innovation within our firms.
On this episode Heather gets a chance to interview Randy Crabtree of Tri-Merit Specialty Tax Professionals. They talk about burnout, why it is a problem particularly in the accounting space, as well as some exciting news for the upcoming Tri-Merit conference in August.
On this episode Joe gets a chance to interview Daryl Davis, an American R&B and blues musician and activist, about his efforts to fight racism in the United States.
On this episode Heather gets a chance to interview Scotty Scarano about how he ended up with the idea for Accounting High. If you've read this far then be sure to listen to the end. Especially if you want to hear Scotty rap. Or even if you don't.
On this episode Joe and Heather talk about why clients do not value your services. They start with the first reason which is that you sell the wrong "product" and then go through the rest of Joe's list from there.
On this episode Joe is excited to speak with Heather Crider and Mark Schulman, mainstage presenters at the Scaling New Heights conference. Heather is a leading expert on high-performance growth, thought transformation, brain re-training, stress reduction, and burnout recovery. Mark has enjoyed an unprecedented career over the last 30 years as a first call drummer for world-class rock and pop artists.
On this episode Joe is excited to speak with Amelia R. Earhart, the Scaling New Heights 2023 featured keynote speaker, a passionate aviatrix, a seeker of all things adventurous, and an accomplished public speaker.
In this episode, Joe and Heather jump right into the topic of conquering task overload. They start with dispelling some myths and then get into the practicality of conquering task overload.
On this episode of The Woodard Report Podcast, Heather speaks with Jason Staats about accounting technology and automation tools such as Zapier, Make, and OpenAI. Together, Jason and Heather dive into and how we can leverage this technolgy in the accounting industry.
On this episode of The Woodard Report Podcast, Heather and Joe take on the topic of process documentation and how you "don't have time" to document all of your processes.
On this episode of The Woodard Report Podcast, Heather and Joe take on the topic of document deadlock and how to get the information you need to do your job.
On this episode of The Woodard Report Podcast, Heather speaks with Ron Baker about his new book Time's Up and the shift to a subscription pricing model.
On this episode of The Woodard Report Podcast, Joe and Heather talk about Artificial Intelligence and the potential impact on the industry. To lead things off, Heather asks, "Is this even new at all?"
On this episode of The Woodard Report Podcast, Joe and Heather talk about the number one pain point in the industry right now. The key problem facing the accounting and bookkeeping industries right now is the staffing crisis.
On this episode of The Woodard Report Podcast, Joe and Heather talk about "that" stubborn client. You know the one. Joe provides some insight into your relationship with a stubborn client and Heather adds some much needed context based on her personal experiences.
During this episode Joe Woodard addresses the different categories of bookkeeping automation technologies and how to "stack" these technologies to create extreme automation. If stacked correctly - and if the technology stack is complete - you could see up to 80% reduction in manual entry through the modernization and automation of bookkeeping productions! As part of Joe's address of this topic, he interviews Kalliopi Vlastas, General Manager of Receipt Bank US and the key role that data parsing plays in the automation process.
In this episode Joe Woodard speaks with Tina Duncan, Payroll & HR Project Advisor at Aprio Cloud, one of the nation's leading and most technologically-driven client accounting services (i.e. bookkeeping) organizations in the world. Joe and Tina are joined by nationally-renowned PEO, payroll compliance and HR management expert Moses Balian to discuss client management and technology strategies and best practices for working with your clients in the areas of payroll compliance and payroll advisory.
In the second part of this six-part series (see Episode 39 for Part 1), Joe speaks with Caleb Jenkins, a practitioner, and Chris Farrell, a software developer, about managing people.
During this episode, Joe, Caleb and Chris discuss three key areas of management: Hiring, Evaluation and Retention, with best practices, practical methods, and tips and tricks that they have gleaned over a combined 40 years of managing teams.
During this episode, Joe Woodard talks with Gino Wickman - creator of the popular Entrepreneurial Operating System (EOS). During the episode, Gino discusses the key concepts in his new book called The Entrepreneurial Leap including the traits required for someone to be truly a successful entrepreneur and ways for advisors to protect the journey of their clients who are engaging in entrepreneurial initiatives.
During this episode Joe Woodard talks with Kim Perell, Scaling New Heights main stage presenter and author of the bestselling book *The Execution Factor: The One Skill that Drives Success.* During the conversation Joe and Kim discuss the 5 traits of consistent and effective execution: Vision, Passion, Action, Resiliency, and Relationships...and how each of these traits applies to small business advisors and their clients. You can learn more about Kim Perell on her website at http://www.kimperell.com. Click here to purchase a copy of her book.
During this episode Joe has a conversation with Mike Michalowicz about his new book called Fix this Next. This latest book by Mike focuses on identifying the key areas of improvement within each small business and leaning into those areas with your small business clients. According to Mike, the role of the advisor is key, because small business owners lack the visibility and the objectivity to focus on what they need "fix next." Click here to learn more about Mike's new book.
In the first part of this six-part series, Joe speaks with Caleb Jenkins, a practitioner, and Chris Farrell, a software developer, to give an overview of practice planning.
During this episode, Joe, Caleb and Chris discuss practice planning, including the benefits of defining what you are trying to accomplish, the need to apply a strategy as you develop your practice plan and how to be intentional throughout the process. Listen as Joe, Caleb and Chris provide the five key components of practice planning.
During this episode Joe talks Simon T. Bailey, author of two amazing books on Brilliance in your personal and professional life: Shift Your Brilliance: Harness the Power of You, and Release Your Brilliance: The Four Steps of Transforming Your Life and Revealing Your Genius to the World.
In their conversation, Joe and Simon focus heavily on intentional living, embracing professional purpose, and accomplishing unprecedented success by leveraging purpose to overcome fear, uncertainty and doubt.
During this episode Joe talks with two leaders within the accounting profession who are passionate about empowering Latino-owned businesses. In fact, the Latino community represents one of the fastest growing demographics within the accounting profession.
During the episode we dispel some of the myths about Latino owned businesses, drill down on key needs and pain points experienced by Latino owned businesses and provide practical steps advisors can take to engage Latino owned businesses – even if you are not part of the Latino community.
During this episode, Joe interviews Simon Bailey - World Renowned Speaker and author of the book SPARK Five Platinum Service Principles for Creating Customers for Life.
During the episode, Simon breaks down the acronym "SPARK" and introduces two additional terms, "VUCA," and "Duja Ve."
And...Simon and Joe connect these customer service principles to client transformation - the evolution of the accounting profession from those who solely offer compliance and bookkeeping services (back office work) to those who also provide - and primarily provide - business coaching (boardroom work).
During this episode Joe speaks with Dawn Fotopulos, author of the award winning book Accounting for the Numberphobic about critical issues facing small business owners and how accountants and bookkeepers can provide remedies - both short and long term.
During the conversations, Dawn and Joe discuss the latest studies and research on the state of small business and practical steps accountants and bookkeepers can take...immediately and with little preparation...to address acute problems most small business owners face.
In this episode, Joe Woodard covers practical methods for living more productive and effective lives - professionally and personally.
Accounting professionals are never truly "task-free." Their lives are filled with project deadlines, unfinished tasks, to-do lists, and constant requests from clients, employees, and vendors. Joe's strategies detailed in this episode will empower you to tame task overload and turn responses to life's inputs into intentional, thoughtful, and highly effective actions in your practice and your life.
In this episode, Joe Woodard interviews guest Peter Hickey, an internationally-renowned expert on succession and exit planning and author of The One Page Exit Plan.
In this episode Joe Woodard challenges accountants and bookkeepers to play a transformative role with their clients, defining small business transformation and addressing four key challenges accountants and bookkeepers face in moving, figuratively, from the back office to the board room with their clients.
In this episode Mark Wickersham – a global thought leader on value pricing for bookkeepers and accountants – shares practice, proven and workable approaches to client pricing. During our conversation Mark addresses many of the profession’s biggest objections to – and challenges around – value pricing and provides practice steps to effective pricing strategies.
In this final week leading up to SNH 2017 we will hear from Rich Preece. Rich is the Global Accountant Segment Leader at Intuit and heads up all of Intuits partnership programs, products, and services for accounting professionals. In this podcast, Joe Woodard talks with Rich about how Intuit is incorporating customers in their innovation process, and the impact of mobile technology and the gig economy on the accounting industry. Be sure to catch Rich’s keynote presentation June 5, 2017 on the Scaling New Heights live web stream.
The world of technology is rapidly expanding, with the number of small business applications growing seemingly overnight. Accounting professionals struggle with maintaining their client workload while juggling the daunting task of learning about and implementing new technology.
In this podcast, Joe speaks with Michelle Long and Alicia Katz Pollock about how to tackle the challenge of staying current with technology.
As technology continues to expand and integrate with accounting software, many of the day to day operations of bookkeeping and compliance have become automated. Technological advances have opened the door to accounting professionals to allow them to move firmly into the realm of small business advisor. In this podcast episode, Joe speaks with Robin Hall and Gale Kirsopp these opportunities.
Why did you enter the accounting profession? For many, the reason has a lot to do with a comfort in working with numbers, and not very much to do with the desire to lead a team. In this episode, Joe speaks with Clayton Oates about hiring, challenges with team members, and key advice for accountants who want to be better leaders.
How do you measure the success of your practice? Many accounting professionals work diligently to increase the number of clients engaged, without developing and implementing a process for acquiring and retaining the right clients. In this podcast, Joe speaks with two powerful practitioners (Patricia Hendrix of Ten Key Business Solutions and Hector Garcia of Quick Bookkeeping & Accounting) about client acquisition and retention strategies.
The profession is crowded. There are hundreds of thousands of CPAs, tax preparers and bookkeepers actively practicing in the United States alone. The profession is also commoditized. Crowding, massive national franchises and technology shifts cause many practitioners to compete on price - to use price point as their distinction.
In this podcast, we take this challenge head on with two of the nation's leading practitioners (Laura Redmond of Redmond Accounting and Steve King of GrowthForce). These cutting-edge leaders perpetually create distinction in their firms in the areas of culture, service delivery, efficiency, and effectiveness (i.e. value) to increase margins in an increasingly competitive and commoditized profession.
In Part 5 of our series featuring the 2016 Most Powerful Women in Accounting, Joe speaks with Sandra Wiley. Sandra is the President of Boomer Consulting, Inc. and has been consistently recognized as one of the most influential people in accounting. In this episode, Joe and Sandra discuss integral aspects of firm management, including the characteristics of a strong leader and how create a working team culture, as well as concrete actions to move your firm to the Client Advisory Services model.
In Part 4 of our series featuring the 2016 Most Powerful Women in Accounting, Joe speaks with Dawn Brolin. Dawn is the managing member of Powerful Accounting, an accounting and consulting firm that recently added a powerful niche to their services – IRS audit & bankruptcy accounting. Joe and Dawn discuss her journey from sole practitioner to firm builder, how she has created standard processes and procedures to maximize her firm’s growth, and some of the challenges and opportunities for QuickBooks ProAdvisors in today’s changing technological landscape within the accounting profession.
In Part 3 of our series featuring the 2016 Most Powerful Women in Accounting, Joe speaks with Robin Hall. Robin is the CEO and principal professional of VARC Solutions, one of the nation’s largest and most respected QuickBooks and QuickBase consulting firms. Joe and Robin discuss her journey from sole practitioner to firm builder, the challenges she faced reaching her goals, and some of the amazing and unprecedented opportunities for QuickBooks ProAdvisors in today’s drastically shifting technology landscape.
In Part 2 of our series featuring the Most Powerful Women in Accounting 2016, Joe speaks with Jan Haugo. Last year, Jan took her passion, expertise and thought leadership in the bookkeeping profession to a whole new level by starting up the Unites States member association of the Institute of Certified Bookkeepers. Since then, she has achieved massively increased recognition of the bookkeeping profession by setting stricter standards, forging new partnerships, establishing meetup groups and social networks, and building a membership base of 500 members so far.
During this episode we will discuss the future of bookkeeping, the relationship between and accounting and bookkeeping, and the role of bookkeepers with Cash Flow and Analysis.
In Part 1 of our series featuring the Most Powerful Women in Accounting 2016, Joe speaks with Ingrid Edstrom. Ingrid has received awards and recognitions including Top 40 Under 40, 2016 Most Powerful Women in Accounting, and Insightful Accountant’s 2016 Top 100 ProAdvisor, and she is passionate about building online communities. Her successes and innovations with networking earned Ingrid recognition in Intuit’s 2015 Firm of the Future contest.
During this episode we will drill down on the benefits and strategies of networking and community building, both online and face to face.
This week’s guest, Gary Boomer, is a highly acclaimed thought leader and is recognized in the accounting profession as the leading authority on technology and firm management. In this episode, Joe and Gary discuss the advisory services model, leadership, and the connection between the two.
Stephen M. R. Covey, the New York Times and #1 Wall Street Journal bestselling author of The SPEED of Trust: The One Thing that Changes Everything, speaks with Joe Woodard about the role of trust in business. During this episode, Joe and Stephen will discuss the various aspects of trust, including personal, professional and organizational trust, and how that trust is key to effective client and firm leadership.
Stephen M. R. Covey, the New York Times and #1 Wall Street Journal bestselling author of The SPEED of Trust: The One Thing that Changes Everything, speaks with Joe Woodard about the role of trust in business. During this episode, Joe and Stephen will discuss the various aspects of trust, including personal, professional and organizational trust, and how that trust is key to effective client and firm leadership.
During this episode, Joe speaks with Dawn Fotopulos, associate professor at The King's College and award-winning author of "Accounting for the Numberphobic: A Survival Guide for Small Business Owners". Joe and Dawn discuss how accountants are uniquely positioned to not only support the success of small business clients, but also to stem the staggering rate of small business failure in America.
Joe Woodard interviews Daymond John, Co-Host of ABC's "Shark Tank" about his own experiences as an entrepreneur and business owner, suggestions for entrepreneurs (based on the principles of Daymond's new book The Power of Broke), and specific ways Daymond believes accountants are integral to small business success.
Over 10 years ago, Paul Dunn and Ron Baker co-authored a book called The Firm of the Future. The book focused on the nature of work accountants should provide, the distinction between service workers and knowledge workers, and effectiveness as the key measurement for the professions. We are now in the “future” – measured chronologically, based on the publication date of the book. So, Joe Woodard interviews Paul Dunn in a “look back” approach and asks Paul the key question: “How has the accounting profession embraced, or failed to embrace, the key challenges presented by this iconic text.”
As a world renowned photographer, Joe Buissink has documented weddings for celebrities like Jennifer Lopez, Christina Aguilera, and Kelsey Grammar. Joe has been profiled by Good Morning America, People magazine and a wide range of other media organizations, and he holds several high profile professional distinctions including the International Leadership Award in Photography issued by the United Nations and Canon’s highly coveted “Explorer of Light” designation.
During Scaling New Heights 2016, Joe Buissink presented a keynote presentation detailing the power of brand, the connection between brand and professional passion, and how accounting professionals can invigorate their relationships with their clients. This podcast episode is an extension of Joe’s powerful keynote presentation.
During this episode, Joe Woodard addresses 5 pillars (characteristics) of an epic practice. Part 3 of the series is a continuation of Episodes 8, in which Joe lays the foundational qualities of an Epic Practice from the main stage of Scaling New Heights 2016. Joe will wrap up the series in this episode with the 5 final qualities every practice should strive to achieve to become differentiated, effective, innovative and…EPIC!
During this episode, Joe Woodard addresses 5 pillars (characteristics) of an epic practice. Part 2 of the series is a continuation of Episode 8, in which Joe lays the foundational qualities of an Epic Practice from the main stage of Scaling New Heights 2016. Joe will wrap up the series in Part 3 with 5 additional qualities every practice should strive to achieve to become differentiated, effective, innovative and…EPIC!
In this week’s episode Joe interviews Dawn Brolin, Certified Public Accountant and Managing Member of Powerful Accounting, llc. Dawn has been featured on MSNBC’s Your Business and has spoken at Intuit Quickbooks Connect, as well as CPA Society Shows and Scaling New Heights. Dawn is an expert on fraud and forensic accounting and will be talking with Joe about best practices to protect and build your business.
During this episode Joe Woodard interviews Mike Michalowicz, author of the exciting new book Surge and instructor for Woodard Institute on marketing strategies for accounting practices. During the podcast Joe and Mike will discuss market trends and ways accountants can leverage those trends, combined with service innovations and niche specialization, to grow their practices.
This episode kicks off a multi-part series related to the theme of Scaling New Heights 2016 – “The Epic Practice.” The series begins with Joe Woodard’s keynote that launched the 2016 conference. During the keynote, Joe drew from the powerful stories of ancient Greek mythology to highlight the characteristics of The Epic Practice like endurance, resilience, and focus. “The Epic Practice” series will continue with Joe Woodard in future episodes in which Joe will cover 3 adjectives per episode, challenging all accountants to be not just competent, not just efficient, not just profitable…but also heroic.
Nonprofits can be intimating for and unappealing to accounting professionals because of three misunderstandings: Nonprofits cannot afford to pay my fees, nonprofits have highly complex reporting needs that my firm cannot handle well, and annual audits are problematic due to underpaid and understaffed accounting departments within the organization. As an extension of the latter, many accounting practices incorrectly conclude they must have an audit practice to support nonprofits in any meaningful or profitable way.
During this episode Joe Woodard and Gregg Bossen, one the nation’s leading advisors to nonprofit organizations, discuss the opportunity and address the challenges around working with nonprofits to give you renewed confidence in the niche and to provide some practical tips and best practices reaching nonprofit organizations as clients.
Joe Woodard and Ron Baker discuss the ground breaking book The Future of the Professions by Richard and Daniel Susskind. In this groundbreaking book, the authors cover the way AI is impacting all professions and the authors also make projections about changes AI will force upon the professions. The changes center around the way AI will disseminate and interpret knowledge through "cognitive assistants," replacing the knowledge curation role that is currently the foundation of all professionals. After discussing the coming changes, Ron and Joe discuss ways accountants can monitor the changes and respond proactively to protect the vital role they play with their clients.
Mark Wickersham is a world-renowned expert on pricing for accounting firms and the author of numerous books including Effective Pricing for Accountants and How to Build a Better Business and Make More Money: Simple Ideas that Really Work for Entrepreneurs. In this interview Mark guides you through the process of creating high value services and determining an appropriate price for those services. As Mark teaches us in this episode, value pricing (unlike fixed pricing) begins with the projection of the client's value proposition - the measureable benefit to the client - to determine price.
(Mark presented a keynote presentation and a breakout session at Scaling New Heights 2016. Both of Mark's presentations focused on value pricing for accountants.)
Rob Nixon is the founder and CEO of Panalitix, a coaching and professional education community for accountants. Rob is also the author of the book Remaining Relevant: The Future of the Accounting Profession. During this interview Rob describes the "Now Leader" and focuses on eight key areas where accountants can (and should) play a stronger role with their clients. Tune in as Rob walks our podcast audience through the type of focused client leadership that produces meaningful, measurable and lasting results.
(Rob presented a breakout session on high impact leadership at Scaling New Heights 2016.)
Mike Michalowicz is a small business and startup expert and the author of Profit First, The Pumpkin Plan and Surge. During this interview Mike discussing small changes businesses can make to yield surprisingly large…or as he says…"colossal" results. Mike and Joe touch on the principles of his new book called Surge and briefly discuss the power of specialization.
(Mike presented a keynote address and a breakout session at Scaling New Heights 2016.)
Frank Abagnale is a world renowned fraud expert, portrayed by Leonardo DiCaprio in the movie "Catch Me if You Can." In part 2 of this interview, Frank brings his decades of experience working with the FBI and numerous companies (including Intuit) into an interview focused on how accountants can help their clients detect and prevent fraud and embezzlement. Did you know you should never throw away a printer or that you should never copy sensitive information on a publically accessible copier? If not…this episode is a must!
Frank Abagnale is a world renowned fraud expert, portrayed by Leonardo DiCaprio in the movie "Catch Me if You Can." In this two-part interview, Frank brings his decades of experience working with the FBI and numerous companies (including Intuit) into an interview focused on how accountants can help their clients detect and prevent fraud and embezzlement. Did you know you should never throw away a printer or that you should never copy sensitive information on a publically accessible copier? If not…this episode is a must!
(Frank taught classes on small business fraud at Scaling New Heights 2014 and 2015 and presented a keynote address at Scaling New Heights 2014.)