The Modern CPA Success Show

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AI is changing more than the speed of accounting work. It is changing what firms can sell and how clients measure value.

Shawn Yeager, founder of Upshift, joins Tom Wadelton and Adam Hale to discuss how AI is reshaping pricing and service design across professional services. After three decades commercializing emerging technology, including work on Microsoft’s first browser team, Shawn now helps firms turn AI from an internal efficiency project into a commercial strategy.

Shawn explains why the billable hour as a unit of value is changing, how firms can separate routine work from judgment and trust, and why advisory should be packaged around specific outcomes rather than broad labels. He also shares a four-quadrant approach for reviewing service lines, a product-market fit process for testing new offers, and why firms should build their context and workflows instead of chasing every new AI tool.

Accounting firm owners concerned about margin compression, commoditization, or where to invest next will find practical direction in this episode. Tune in to How AI Is Forcing Accounting Firms to Rethink Pricing with Shawn Yeager.

Episode resources:

● Website: https://anderscpa.com/

● If you have questions or would like to be a guest on the show, email us at mcpasuccessshow@anderscpa.com

● Check out the Virtual CFO Playbook Course:

https://anderscpa.com/virtual-cfo-services/vcfo-playbook/

Quotes

Shawn Yeager: “Billing by the hour will likely outlive us all, for good or bad, but the billable hour as a unit of value is forever changed.”
Adam Hale: “I think now we’ve got to move from insights to action.”

Shawn Yeager is the founder of Upshift, where he helps professional services firms commercialize AI. He has spent three decades commercializing emerging technology, beginning on Microsoft’s first browser team and continuing through cloud infrastructure, IoT, digital payments, and AI. Along the way, he has generated more than $300 million in revenue and now advises founders and startup boards.

Learn more about Upshift and explore their free assessment and pricing calculator at upshiftco.com.

LI: https://www.linkedin.com/in/shawnyeager/

The Modern CPA Success Show is the go-to podcast for accounting firm owners eager to enhance profitability and master Virtual CFO services. This podcast leverages combined expertise in delivering top-tier Virtual CFO services across North America.

Website: https://www.buzzsprout.com/2458888

Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/AndersCPA

LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/company/anders-cpa/

Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/anderscpa/

YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@andersvcfo

Tom Wadelton is a Virtual CFO at Anders, bringing over 20 years of financial expertise from his tenure at a Fortune 500 company. He has extensive experience spanning financial management, accounting operations, and information technology integration. Tom specializes in delivering strategic Virtual CFO services, helping businesses optimize their financial performance through advanced accounting solutions.

Website: https://anderscpa.com/about/your-anders-team/#thomas-d-wadelton

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

Adam Hale, CPA, is a Partner and Managing Director of Advisory at Anders dedicated to transforming traditional accounting practices through innovative Virtual CFO services. With over 20 years in public accounting, Adam has been instrumental in the ideation and development of CPA training courses.

Website: https://anderscpa.com/about/your-anders-team/#adam-hale

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

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Most accounting firms have the talent to deliver real CFO-level advisory work. They just have not built the path to get there.

In this episode, Tom Wadelton sits down with Hannah Hood, VCFO Principal at Anders, to talk about what it actually takes to grow accounting talent from senior accountant to trusted CFO. Hannah has lived the full journey from bookkeeper to controller in industry, to VCFO Principal at one of the fastest-growing advisory practices in the country.

You’ll hear how Hannah made the mindset shift from doing the work to advising on it, why staying in the weeds is the most common trap for newly promoted CFOs, and how weekly cash flow conversations can become one of the most powerful advisory touchpoints a firm offers small business clients.

For any firm owner thinking about building stronger teams, pricing subscription services, or moving clients up the advisory value curve, this episode delivers the blueprint.

Press play on Advisory Skills for CPAs: Moving from Bookkeeping to CFO Services and hear what intentional firm growth looks like from the inside.

Episode resources:

● Website: https://anderscpa.com/

● If you have questions or would like to be a guest on the show, email us at mcpasuccessshow@anderscpa.com

● Check out the Virtual CFO Playbook Course:

https://anderscpa.com/virtual-cfo-services/vcfo-playbook/

Quotes

Hannah Hood: "We are selling trust to our clients more than we are selling accounting work."
Tom Wadelton: "The best value in advisory comes from asking really good questions, not from telling the client what you already know."

Website: https://anderscpa.com/learn/podcasts/the-modern-cpa-success-show/

Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/AndersCPA

LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/company/anders-cpa/

Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/anderscpa/

YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@andersvcfo

Tom Wadelton is a Partner and Virtual CFO at Anders, bringing over 20 years of financial expertise from his tenure at a Fortune 500 company. He has extensive experience spanning financial management, accounting operations, and information technology integration. Tom specializes in delivering strategic Virtual CFO services, helping businesses optimize their financial performance through advanced accounting solutions.

Website: https://anderscpa.com/about/your-anders-team/#thomas-d-wadelton

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

Hannah Hood is a VCFO Principal at Anders, leading practice operations, onboarding, capacity planning, and team development for the Virtual CFO division. With 20 years of accounting experience spanning bookkeeping, controllership, and public accounting, Hannah brings a ground-level understanding of what it takes to grow accounting professionals into high-performing advisory practitioners. She also co-hosts the Young CPA Success Show.

Website: https://anderscpa.com/about/your-anders-team/hannah-c-hood/

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

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The accounting profession is opening up. The firm owners who see that clearly right now are the ones who will come out ahead.

Tom Wadelton and Adam Hale share key takeaways from the LEA (Leading Edge Alliance) North American Regional Conference 2026, one of the top CPA firm conferences in the industry. They cover what the profession's biggest thinkers are saying about where accounting firms are headed. Tom and Adam discuss how large firms are quietly shifting their workforce offshore and upskilling those teams to handle higher-level advisory work.

You’ll hear why the traditional apprenticeship model is breaking down and what it means for hiring, training, and the future of intern classes at CPA firms. On the AI front, Tom and Adam go beyond the hype. They talk about using AI to improve client deliverables, how meeting transcripts and AI-generated summaries are changing financial storytelling, and why human expertise still has a clear edge over AI knowledge alone.

Tune in to the full episode of Future-Proof Your Business Before AI Wins with Tom Wadelton and Adam Hale.

Episode resources:

● Website: https://anderscpa.com/

● If you have questions or would like to be a guest on the show, email us at mcpasuccessshow@anderscpa.com

● Check out the Virtual CFO Playbook Course:

https://anderscpa.com/virtual-cfo-services/vcfo-playbook/

Quotes

Adam Hale: "Double down on your value proposition. In any big seismic shift, that is where you should be spending your time."
Tom Wadelton: "When information becomes abundant, trust becomes scarce. That is where firm owners have to step up."

Website: https://anderscpa.com/learn/podcasts/the-modern-cpa-success-show/

Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/AndersCPA

LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/company/anders-cpa/

Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/anderscpa/

YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@andersvcfo

Website: https://anderscpa.com/about/your-anders-team/#thomas-d-wadelton

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

Adam Hale, CPA, is a Partner and Virtual CFO Practice Leader at Anders, dedicated to transforming traditional accounting practices through innovative Virtual CFO services. With over 20 years in public accounting, Adam has been instrumental in the ideation and development of CPA training courses.

Website: https://anderscpa.com/about/your-anders-team/#adam-hale

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

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AI is shrinking the time it takes to do accounting work and for firm owners still billing by the hour, it is quietly shrinking their revenue, too.

Mark Wickersham, mentor to over 400 accountants at Value Pricing Academy Ltd, tackles the two skills separating profitable accounting firms from overworked ones: value pricing and AI. Mark has spent 25 years teaching accountants how to stop trading hours for dollars. He has also spent the last few years showing nearly 600 accountants how to use AI to do more with less.

Mark explains the psychology of price anchoring and how firm owners can frame their value so clients see it clearly. He also makes the case for why AI makes value pricing non-negotiable because when AI cuts delivery time, hourly billing cuts revenue right along with it. From there, Mark walks through how to start with agentic AI without getting overwhelmed and how to keep the human connection strong while using AI in advisory work.

Firm owners who are tired of tight cash flow, long hours, and pricing that feels like a ceiling will find real, actionable direction in this episode. Press play on How to Master Cash Flow With AI and Value Pricing with Mark Wickersham.

Episode resources:

● Website: https://anderscpa.com/

● If you have questions or would like to be a guest on the show, email us at mcpasuccessshow@anderscpa.com

● Check out the Virtual CFO Playbook Course:

https://anderscpa.com/virtual-cfo-services/vcfo-playbook/

Quotes

Mark Wickersham: “AI lets firms create more value for clients in less time, which means stronger margins and healthier cash flow.”
Tom Wadelton: “If AI helps us spend less time explaining numbers and more time advising clients, that’s where the real value starts.”

Mark Wickersham is a mentor to over 400 accountants at Value Pricing Academy Ltd. With over 30 years in accounting, he built and sold his own firm, authored multiple books on value pricing, and has spent 25 years teaching firm owners how to price for value, not time. Today he mentors nearly 600 accountants on using AI to automate work, boost productivity, and move up the value curve.

LI: https://www.linkedin.com/in/markwickersham1/?isSelfPro

Value pricing: SkoolValue Pricing Academy

AI and ChatGPT: SkoolAI Community

AI Academy: SkoolAI Academy

Mark's eBook: The-ai-communityThe 5 AI Tools Smart Accountants Are Using — Free eBook

Website: https://www.buzzsprout.com/2458888

Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/AndersCPA

LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/company/anders-cpa/

Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/anderscpa/

YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@andersvcfo

Website: https://anderscpa.com/about/your-anders-team/#thomas-d-wadelton

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

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You built your CPA firm from the ground up. So why does it feel like it is running you instead of the other way around?

Geraldine Carter, Founder and Business Coach at Geraldine Carter LLC, talks about what it really takes for CPA and accounting firm owners to stop overworking, start charging what they are worth, and design a firm that fits the life they want. Geraldine has spent a decade coaching accountants out of the burnout trap and she brings the no-nonsense, practical framework to prove it.

What she saw when she looked under the hood of accounting practices was a familiar pattern: massive AR balances, too many low-paying clients, long nights, and a business that was technically successful but genuinely exhausting to run.

Stop saying yes to everything and start building the firm you deserve. Tune in the full episode of Stop Saying Yes: How CPAs Can Build the Firm They Deserve with Geraldine Carter.

Episode resources:

● Website: https://anderscpa.com/

● If you have questions or would like to be a guest on the show, email us at mcpasuccessshow@anderscpa.com

● Check out the Virtual CFO Playbook Course:

https://anderscpa.com/virtual-cfo-services/vcfo-playbook/

Quotes

Geraldine Carter: "The better we get at defining what is in bounds and what is out, the easier it becomes to police your own packages."
Tom Wadelton: "Clearly defining what is included and not included in your engagement makes it easier to hold boundaries when clients ask for more."
Adam Hale: "The real challenge is learning how to qualify clients better so you’re not constantly put in a position to say yes to the wrong things."

Geraldine Carter is the Founder of Geraldine Carter LLC and a business coach who has spent a decade helping overworked accountants, CPAs, and EAs redesign their firms so they can work fewer hours at higher prices — with clients they actually enjoy. With a background in engineering and entrepreneurship, Geraldine brings a systems-oriented, problem-solving approach to the very specific challenges that accounting firm owners face: scope creep, underpricing, over-servicing, burnout, and the struggle to say no.

Website: https://geraldine-carter.com/

LI: https://www.linkedin.com/in/geraldine-carter/

IG: https://www.instagram.com/geraldinecartercpacoach/

Website: https://anderscpa.com/learn/podcasts/the-modern-cpa-success-show/

Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/AndersCPA

LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/company/anders-cpa/

Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/anderscpa/

YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@andersvcfo

Website: https://anderscpa.com/about/your-anders-team/#thomas-d-wadelton

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

Website: https://anderscpa.com/about/your-anders-team/#adam-hale

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

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AI is already here. If you are still billing by the hour and running your team on timesheets, you are building on a foundation that is cracking fast.

Blake Oliver, Founder and CEO of Earmark and one of Accounting Today’s top 100 most influential people, talks about the billing revolution happening right now in accounting. Blake breaks down why the billable hour is the root of inefficiency in accounting firms, how AI agents are replacing routine staff work, and what the future of fixed-fee and subscription billing looks like for small and mid-sized CPA firms.

Blake Oliver did not take the traditional accounting route. He started as a musician, stumbled into bookkeeping, and became one of the earliest cloud accounting adopters in the U.S. — the second bookkeeper certified on Xero in the country.

If you want to stay ahead and build a firm that thrives in the next decade, this is the episode to press play on. Tune in to The Billing Revolution: AI, Time, and the Future of Accounting Firms with Blake Oliver.

Episode resources:

● Website: https://anderscpa.com/

● If you have questions or would like to be a guest on the show, email us at mcpasuccessshow@anderscpa.com

● Check out the Virtual CFO Playbook Course:

https://anderscpa.com/virtual-cfo-services/vcfo-playbook/

Quotes

Blake Oliver: "Timesheets are the root of all evil in accounting. It creates a culture of inefficiency and resistance to change."
Tom Wadelton: "You could probably double your revenue with the existing team. That is real money. Not cutting headcount, but growing without needing more people to do it."
Adam Hale: “If I see you are working too much, I am going to be asking what is wrong. Your job is to push work down, use technology, and stretch your reach."

Blake Oliver is the Founder and CEO of Earmark, the app that lets CPAs and accounting professionals earn free continuing professional education by listening to podcasts. A CPA and one of Accounting Today's top 100 most influential people in the profession, Blake started his career as a musician before building one of the first cloud-based bookkeeping practices in the U.S. and becoming the second Xero-certified bookkeeper in the country.

Website: https://www.blakeoliver.com/

LI: https://www.linkedin.com/in/blaketoliver/

YT: https://www.youtube.com/@BlakeTOliver

Connect with Earmark:

LI: https://www.linkedin.com/company/earmarkcpe/

Website: https://anderscpa.com/learn/podcasts/the-modern-cpa-success-show/

Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/AndersCPA

LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/company/anders-cpa/

Instagram:

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Your CPA firm is growing but is your team growing with it?

Terrell Turner, co-founder of TLTurner Group, talks about how growing CPA firms can take control of their capacity. Terrell shares the exact framework his firm uses to measure workload, standardize processes, and know with confidence when to add more clients without overwhelming the team.

Terrell brings a manufacturing mindset to accounting, mapping out every step of the client service process and measuring how long each step takes. That discipline gave his 11-person firm clarity on capacity that most accounting firms never reach.

If your firm is growing but capacity feels like a ceiling, this episode will help you break through. Hit play on Smarter Capacity Planning For Growing CPA Firms with Terrell Turner.

Episode resources:

● Website: https://anderscpa.com/

● If you have questions or would like to be a guest on the show, email us at mcpasuccessshow@anderscpa.com

● Check out the Virtual CFO Playbook Course:

https://anderscpa.com/virtual-cfo-services/vcfo-playbook/

Quotes

Terrell Turner: "Since 70% of our recurring work is on the bookkeeping side, it functions a little bit more like a manufacturing line."
Tom Wadelton: "When you invest that time doing internal reviews before client meetings, it's worth it."
Jody Grunden: "We get paid as owners to make decisions. We don't get paid as owners to put in hours."

Terrell Turner is the co-founder of TLTurner Group, a firm specializing in bookkeeping and CFO services for law firms. With a background in Fortune 500 financial management and a passion for translating complex financial information into clear business decisions, Terrell has built a niche-focused firm that uses a process-driven, capacity-first approach to client service and team management.

LI: https://www.linkedin.com/in/terrellturner/

FB: https://www.facebook.com/terrell.turner.7/

IG: https://www.instagram.com/terrell_a_turner/

Connect with TLTurner Group:

LI: https://www.linkedin.com/company/tlturnergroup/

Website: https://anderscpa.com/learn/podcasts/the-modern-cpa-success-show/

Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/AndersCPA

LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/company/anders-cpa/

Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/anderscpa/

YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@andersvcfo

Tom Wadelton is a Partner and Virtual CFO at Anders, bringing over 20 years of financial expertise from his tenure at a Fortune 500 company. He has extensive experience spanning fin

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Still trying to grow your firm by working more hours? That approach has a ceiling.

Ryan Lazanis, CPA and founder of Future Firm, shares what he learned building and selling an online accounting firm from scratch, and why most firm owners stay stuck running a practice instead of a business. You will hear why clarity on what you actually want comes first, why your service packages need to sell a transformation instead of a task list, and how to price based on value without relying on timesheets.

Learn why the human experience is what clients value most in an era of automation, and how defining your purpose early changes every decision you make after that.

This episode gives you a practical framework for building a firm that gives you freedom and growth. Tune in to People You Should Know: Ryan Lazanis and start designing the business you actually want.

Episode resources:

Website: https://anderscpa.com/
If you have questions or would like to be a guest on the show, email us at mcpasuccessshow@anderscpa.com
Check out the Virtual CFO Playbook Course: https://anderscpa.com/virtual-cfo-services/vcfo-playbook/

Quotes

- Ryan Lazanis: "I've never had a client come to me and say they're leaving their accountant because they're not doing monthly depreciation on their fixed assets. We're listing a checklist in a package that has zero value to the client."

- Adam Hale: "Lack of intentionality is one of the biggest missteps of most small business owners. They just think if they work really hard, they'll achieve these things. That's just not possible without a concrete vision."

- Tom Wadelton: "If I'm doing all those things, when I take time off, those things stop or get broken. And now I'm working on vacation."

- Ryan Lazanis: "The firms that are going to be more human are the ones that are going to win in the end. People still want to deal with people."

Ryan Lazanis is a CPA and the founder of Future Firm, a coaching company that helps accounting firm owners unlock freedom and growth in their businesses. He previously founded Zen Accounting, one of North America's earliest online accounting firms, which he scaled from scratch to acquisition in five years. Ryan's weekly newsletter reaches over 10,000 firm leaders with strategies for building modern, scalable, and systematized firms.

Newsletter: futurefirm.co/newsletter

Website: https://www.buzzsprout.com/2458888

Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/AndersCPA

LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/company/anders-cpa/

Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/anderscpa/

YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@andersvcfo

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Still pricing by the hour? You are limiting your cash flow.

Ron Baker, founder of VeraSage Institute and co-founder of THRESHOLD, talks about why the billable hour fails business owners and what to do instead. You’ll hear why pricing is a core skill, why mindset blocks change, and why most firms stay stuck even when better models exist.

Learn how fixed pricing removes surprises and builds trust. Offering options increases revenue and strengthens decision-making. You’ll also see how AI is reducing billable work and forcing businesses to rethink how they charge.

This episode gives you a clear shift in thinking. Tune in to People You Should Know: Ron Baker and challenge the way you price before it limits your growth.

Episode resources:

● Website: https://anderscpa.com/

● If you have questions or would like to be a guest on the show, email us at mcpasuccessshow@anderscpa.com

● Check out the Virtual CFO Playbook Course:

https://anderscpa.com/virtual-cfo-services/vcfo-playbook/

Quotes

Ron Baker: "The billable hour creates a poor customer experience. Clients don’t want surprises, they want clarity upfront."
Tom Wadelton: "If we rethink pricing and value, the entire profession could look completely different in a short time."
Adam Hale: "Value-based pricing is a mindset shift. Once firms embrace it, everything from growth to client relationships improves."
Jody Grunden: "Moving away from hourly billing forced a complete rethink of how services are packaged."

Ron Baker is the founder of VeraSage Institute and co-founder of THRESHOLD. A globally recognized thought leader in value pricing, business model innovation, and the future of professional firms. As the host of The Soul of Enterprise and author of multiple influential books, Ron has spent decades challenging the status quo, especially the reliance on billable hours.

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

Connect with THRESHOLD:

LI: https://www.linkedin.com/company/thresholdnow/

Website: https://www.buzzsprout.com/2458888

Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/AndersCPA

LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/company/anders-cpa/

Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/anderscpa/

YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@andersvcfo

Website:

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If you want cash flow freedom, you cannot separate money from leadership. Your revenue, team performance, pricing power, and long-term stability all reflect how you lead. Scotty Scarano, Rapping Custodian at Accounting High, shares how he is reshaping how people view accounting, financial literacy, and career development.

Listen to how to Build Cash Flow Freedom Through Leadership.

Resources:

● Website: https://anderscpa.com/

● If you have questions or would like to be a guest on the show, email us at mcpasuccessshow@anderscpa.com

● Check out the Virtual CFO Playbook Course:

https://anderscpa.com/virtual-cfo-services/vcfo-playbook/

Quotes

Scotty Scarano: "If you want predictable cash flow, you have to lead your team in a way that aligns performance with financial outcomes."
Tom Wadelton: "Cash flow problems are often leadership problems in disguise—structure and communication usually fix what spreadsheets alone cannot."
Adam Hale: "When leaders focus on discipline in pricing, collections, and accountability, cash flow becomes more predictable and less stressful."

Scotty Scarano is the Rapping Custodian of Accounting High. After scaling his firm from six figures to over half a million in revenue, he turned his focus to leadership, growth, and helping firm owners build cash flow freedom.

LI: https://www.linkedin.com/in/scottscarano/

X: https://x.com/scottscarano

Connect with Accounting High:

Website: https://www.accountinghigh.com/

LI: https://www.linkedin.com/company/accounting-high/

Website: https://www.buzzsprout.com/2458888

Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/AndersCPA

LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/company/anders-cpa/

Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/anderscpa/

YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@andersvcfo

Website: https://anderscpa.com/about/your-anders-team/#thomas-d-wadelton

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

Website: https://anderscpa.com/about/your-anders-team/#adam-hale

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

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You can’t afford to plan your finances based on how things used to work. Cash flow pressure, pricing changes, technology shifts, and new reporting demands are forcing business owners to think ahead instead of reacting late.

Daniel Hood, Editor in Chief of Accounting Today, on where business finance is heading and what small business owners should prepare for now. You learn how advisory services, value-based pricing, AI, staffing changes, and long-term financial planning affect your cash flow and decision-making. You hear why waiting is risky, why compliance alone is not enough, and how preparing early gives you control instead of surprises. Get the clarity you need to prepare your business finances for what’s next. Tune in to the full episode of Preparing Your Business Finances for What’s Next with Daniel Hood.

Episode resources:

● Website: https://anderscpa.com/

● If you have questions or would like to be a guest on the show, email us at mcpasuccessshow@anderscpa.com

● Check out the Virtual CFO Playbook Course:

https://anderscpa.com/virtual-cfo-services/vcfo-playbook/

Quotes

Daniel Hood: "Value-based pricing and advisory services are closer-term priorities for firms. Many should have started preparing for them already."
Tom Wadelton: "Sustainability reporting moved forward without finance even realizing it, proving that if accountants don’t lead emerging financial areas, others will step in."
Adam Hale: "Audit often feels left out of value-based pricing conversations because it’s still framed as task-based compliance work."

Daniel Hood is the Editor-in-Chief of Accounting Today, where he has spent over a decade covering the forces shaping the accounting profession. With more than 25 years reporting on public accounting, Daniel offers a clear-eyed view of how firms can prepare their businesses and finances for what’s next. He brings deep insight into emerging trends like advisory services, technology, talent, and long-term firm strategy. Known for translating complex industry shifts into practical perspective, Daniel helps firm leaders see around corners. His work keeps the profession focused on the future, not just compliance.

Website: https://www.accountingtoday.com/

FB: https://www.facebook.com/AccountingToday

LI: https://www.linkedin.com/in/daniel-hood-3494ab49/

X: https://x.com/AccountingToday

Website: https://www.buzzsprout.com/2458888

Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/AndersCPA

LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/company/anders-cpa/

Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/anderscpa/

YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@andersvcfo

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Running a business is more than putting out fires and checking boxes. Thinking like an owner changes how you make decisions and lead your team.

Chad Davis, co-founder at LiveCA LLP & AutomationTown.io, joins the conversation to explore what it truly means to behave like a business owner. You'll hear real talk on financial ownership, setting priorities, letting go of control, and why emotional detachment can lead to better decisions. Chad breaks down how to step into a leadership mindset, even when the day-to-day feels overwhelming. Chad also explains why stepping back emotionally helps you decide with clarity. And above all, it’s okay to slow down—because sustainable businesses are never built on burnout. Tune in to the full episode here: ▶️ Stability Over Scale: A Smarter Way to Build a Business That Lasts.

Episode resources:

● Website: https://anderscpa.com/

● If you have questions or would like to be a guest on the show, email us at mcpasuccessshow@anderscpa.com

● Check out the Virtual CFO Playbook Course:

https://anderscpa.com/virtual-cfo-services/vcfo-playbook/

Quotes

Chad Davis: "When you sell something to somebody, that time is budgeted to them. No one else should infringe on it. That's how you protect stability."
Jody Grunden: "A well‑built team gives leaders confidence they can leave for weeks without the business falling apart, and often the team performs better without constant oversight."
Adam Hale: "When planning an exit, owners must clarify their future involvement, whether they want to keep working as a CFO or simply reduce their role after taking some chips off the table."

Chad Davis is the Co-founder of LiveCA LLP and AutomationTown.io, where he champions a smarter, more stable approach to business. At LiveCA, he helps Canadian businesses streamline controllership services with scalable tech and a focus on reliability over rapid growth. Chad also leads AutomationTown, a vibrant community for accounting pros exploring the practical side of AI and automation. His philosophy? Build intentionally, stay curious, and focus on what truly matters. In both ventures, Chad is setting the standard for how to grow a business that lasts.

Website: https://www.liveca.ca/

FB: https://www.facebook.com/myliveca/

LI: https://www.linkedin.com/in/chaddavis1/?originalSubdomain=ca

https://www.linkedin.com/company/liveca-chartered-accountant/?originalSubdomain=ca

Website: https://www.buzzsprout.com/2458888

Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/AndersCPA

LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/company/anders-cpa/

Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/anderscpa/&

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As a small business owner, you wear a lot of hats and it’s easy to feel like the pressure never stops.

Randy Crabtree, Co-Founder of Tri-Merit Specialty Tax Professionals, shares lessons that push you to rethink how you run your finances. He talks about passion, problem solving, and building systems that help you get better cash flow, and long‑term stability for your business. You’ll hear how he reshaped his career and his thinking helps business owners improve tax planning and adapt to the future of accounting. He goes straight into billable hours, pricing, advisory work, AI, offshoring, burnout, and what small business owners should expect from great financial partners. Tune in now and hear insights that shift the way you think about your financial future. ▶️People You Should Know: Randy Crabtree.

Episode resources:

● Website: https://anderscpa.com/

● If you have questions or would like to be a guest on the show, email us at mcpasuccessshow@anderscpa.com

● Check out the Virtual CFO Playbook Course:

https://anderscpa.com/virtual-cfo-services/vcfo-playbook/

Quotes

Randy Crabtree: "If we free ourselves from compliance work, don’t fill that space with more of the same. That’s where advisory comes in, helping clients get to outcomes they didn’t even know were possible."
Tom Wadelton: "Supporting nonprofits by handling their accounting and guiding new treasurers has been a great way to contribute."
Adam Hale: "A lot of people starting their own practices deal with imposter syndrome. Supporting them and helping them build confidence has been rewarding.”

Randy Crabtree is the Co-Founder and Partner at Tri-Merit Specialty Tax, where he helps accounting firms maximize value through R&D tax credits, cost segregation, and energy incentives like 179D and 45L. As host of The Unique CPA podcast and founder of the Bridging the Gap conference, Randy is a leading voice in redefining how CPAs deliver impact beyond compliance. Recognized as one of the Top 100 Most Influential People in Accounting, he brings deep insight and energy to every conversation. His passion for supporting firms and spotlighting innovation has made him a trusted figure in the profession.

Website: https://tri-merit.com/

FB: https://www.facebook.com/TriMerit

LI: https://www.linkedin.com/in/randy-crabtree-cpa-1945a67/

https://www.linkedin.com/company/tri-merit-llc/

Website: https://www.buzzsprout.com/2458888

Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/AndersCPA

LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/company/anders-cpa/

Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/anderscpa/

YouTube:

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Being the boss doesn’t automatically make you a business owner. Running a business requires you to think differently, act strategically, and lead with clarity.

Chris Papin, CPA, Attorney & Business Advisor at Papin Speaks, talks about what it really means to behave like a business owner. From facing hard truths about failed marketing to balancing emotional attachment with accountability, Chris shares how small business owners can shift their mindset and take ownership at a higher level. He breaks down how to build processes, set priorities, make tough calls, and communicate with more intention. This is a must-listen for anyone feeling overwhelmed by the day-to-day and ready to get back in control. Tune in to the full episode here: ▶️ "Chris Papin and how to "Behave Like a Business Owner"

Episode resources:

● Website: https://anderscpa.com/

● If you have questions or would like to be a guest on the show, email us at mcpasuccessshow@anderscpa.com

● Check out the Virtual CFO Playbook Course:

https://anderscpa.com/virtual-cfo-services/vcfo-playbook/

Quotes

Chris Papin: "Many owners default to what feels easy or fun, but behaving like a business owner means facing hard truths and making disciplined decisions."
Tom Wadelton: "The phrase 'financially speaking' helps ground tough conversations in facts. When clients resist hard decisions, math makes the reasoning clear and harder to dispute."
Adam Hale: "Managing difficult conversations is something people only learn after doing it poorly. Avoiding direct conversations always comes back later."

Chris Papin is a licensed Attorney and Certified Public Accountant based in Oklahoma, specializing in advising closely held businesses and their owners. With a dual focus on legal structure and financial health, he guides entrepreneurs through startup formation, business development, and strategic tax planning. Chris brings a unique perspective to client advisory by helping business owners think and act like true operators, not just service providers. As a trusted advisor, Chris empowers business owners to behave like CEOs and lead with clarity.

Website: https://www.papinspeaks.com/

LI: https://www.linkedin.com/in/chrispapin/

https://www.linkedin.com/company/papin-speaks/

Website: https://www.buzzsprout.com/2458888

Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/AndersCPA

LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/company/anders-cpa/

Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/anderscpa/

YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@andersvcfo

Tom Wadelton is a Virtual CFO at Anders, bringing over 20 years of financial expertise from his tenure at a Fortune 500 company. He has exten

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Bringing in the right people can transform your CPA firm. Hiring is a strategic move that drives your growth. If you're looking to make smarter hiring decisions, this episode is for you.

Will Spengler, founder of Frederick Fox, shares how his team finds strong controller and finance candidates in markets like Dallas, and what firms should do to stay competitive. You’ll get insights into how recruiting agencies work, what mistakes firms make when hiring, why public accounting backgrounds are still in high demand, and how remote work and compensation expectations are shifting the talent game. Tune in NOW! ▶️ Recruiting for CPA Firms with Will Spengler

Episode resources:

● Website: https://anderscpa.com/

● If you have questions or would like to be a guest on the show, email us at mcpasuccessshow@anderscpa.com

● Check out the Virtual CFO Playbook Course:

https://anderscpa.com/virtual-cfo-services/vcfo-playbook/

Quotes

Will Spengler: "Small CPA firms must weigh the opportunity cost of time when positions remain unfilled. The potential growth, efficiency, and profitability lost often outweigh recruiter fees."
Tom Wadelton: "Remote work is now a differentiator. Firms that remain flexible and open to remote arrangements have access to a wider pool of talent."
Adam Hale: "In recruiting for CPA firms, candidates with public accounting experience, particularly in audit, are often preferred since that background provides exposure to diverse industries and scenarios."

Will Spengler is a passionate leader in agency recruiting and the driving force behind Frederick Fox, a top-tier executive search community. As an innovator and entrepreneur, Will specializes in contractor solutions, direct hires, and retained executive search—delivering unmatched recruiting results for CPA firms and beyond. With a team of 45+ seasoned recruiters and over 610 active clients, he brings scale, speed, and strategy to every search.

Website: https://frederickfox.com/

FB: https://www.facebook.com/FrederickFoxGroup/

LI: https://www.linkedin.com/in/william-spengler-2193433a/

https://www.linkedin.com/company/frederick-fox/

Website: https://www.buzzsprout.com/2458888

Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/AndersCPA

LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/company/anders-cpa/

Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/anderscpa/

YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@andersvcfo

Tom Wadelton is a Virtual CFO at Anders, bringing over 20 years of financial expertise from his tenure at a Fortune 500 company. He has extensive experience spa

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If your numbers feel disconnected from your decisions, it’s time to change that. Profit-Focused Accounting helps you align operations so you can stop guessing and start leading with confidence.

Discover a clear roadmap to financial maturity with the five pillars of profit-focused accounting. Learn how to build cash flow that supports growth, know why accurate and timely reporting must come first, and how objective self-assessments, from Ad Hoc to Optimized give you and your advisor clarity on where you stand. Take the first step toward profit clarity. Watch the episode today! ▶️ Mastering the Vital Core of Profit-Focused Accounting

Episode resources:

● Website: https://anderscpa.com/

● If you have questions or would like to be a guest on the show, email us at mcpasuccessshow@anderscpa.com

● Check out the Virtual CFO Playbook Course:

https://anderscpa.com/virtual-cfo-services/vcfo-playbook/

Quotes

Jamie Nau: "A good forecast connects financial data with non-financial drivers, like customer acquisition or capacity limits."
Tom Wadelton: "Benchmarks give owners perspective. They reveal whether performance issues are company-specific or industry-wide."
Adam Hale: "Increasing enterprise value requires the owner to step back from daily operations and empower their team to take charge."

Jamie Nau, CPA, Director of Virtual CFO Services/ Virtual CFO, is a seasoned financial expert with a deep understanding of business growth stages. Jaime has worked extensively with middle-market and large companies, providing key financial insights. His experience as an auditor has given him firsthand knowledge of how critical financial data is in strategic decision-making.

Website: https://anderscpa.com/

FB: https://www.facebook.com/vcfobyanders

LI: https://www.linkedin.com/in/jamienau/

https://www.linkedin.com/company/vcfobyanders/

IG: https://www.instagram.com/vcfobyanders/

YT: https://www.youtube.com/@vcfobyanders

Website: https://www.buzzsprout.com/2458888

Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/AndersCPA

LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/company/anders-cpa/

Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/anderscpa/

YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@andersvcfo

Website: https://anderscpa.com/about/your-ander

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You started your business to grow, not to get stuck in spreadsheets. Today, smart tools make it easier than ever to stay ahead.

In this episode of The Modern CPA Success Show, we sit down with Jeff Seibert, CEO and co-founder of Digits, to explore how AI is transforming small business finance. We cover how Digits uses machine learning to automate up to 93% of bookkeeping, how their proprietary ledger gives you deep real-time analytics, and how their dashboards and reporting tools make it easy to translate numbers into action.

Key takeaways:

AI-first bookkeeping: Digits automates over 90% of transactions by using real-time bank, payroll, and invoice integrations.
Real-time reporting and dashboards: Digits replaces static spreadsheets with interactive, browser-based financials.
Perfect fit for small businesses: Digits is ideal for single-entity, U.S.-based businesses looking to ditch slow monthly closes.
Made for accountants too: Digits is designed to scale with accounting firms offering Virtual CFO services.
Roadmap ahead: Multi-entity and multi-currency, making Digits a true full-stack solution in the making.

Start building your real-time finance clarity with Digits—listen to the episode today! ▶️How AI-Powered Digits Provide Real-Time Finance Clarity for Small Businesses

Episode resources:

● Website: https://anderscpa.com/

● If you have questions or would like to be a guest on the show, email us at mcpasuccessshow@anderscpa.com

● Check out the Virtual CFO Playbook Course:

https://anderscpa.com/virtual-cfo-services/vcfo-playbook/

Quotes

Jeff Seibert - "Digits instantly learns from your transaction categorization, quickly achieving near-perfect accuracy in managing your financial data."
Tom Wadelton: "We often rely on dashboarding, but typically we need to separately log into accounting systems to identify specific vendor details behind variances."
Adam Hale - "In accounting, it's not about identifying a $10,000 variance. It's about understanding why that variance exists. That's where AI really needs to deliver."

Jeff Seibert is the Co-Founder and CEO of Digits, a company revolutionizing accounting with real-time financial clarity and intuitive reporting. With over seven years at the helm, Jeff is reshaping how businesses experience bookkeeping and insights. He's also the host of Between Two Founders, where he shares the stories and strategies behind successful startups.

Website: https://digits.com/

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

https://www.linkedin.com/company/digits-financial/

X: https://x.com/jeffseibert

https://x.com/digits

Website: https://the-modern-cpa-success-show.simplecast.com/

Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/AndersCPA

LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/company/anders-cpa/

Instagram: https:

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In today's rapidly evolving financial landscape, small business CFOs are navigating complexities that demand more than spreadsheets and manual processes.

In this episode of The Modern CPA Success Show, Ahikam Kaufman, co-founder and CEO of SafeBooks AI, explains how AI is transforming financial operations, enhancing data integrity, and streamlining decision-making.

With over 20 years of experience in Fintech and corporate finance, Ahikam shares practical insights on using technology to elevate CFO strategies beyond traditional boundaries.

From automating transaction monitoring to strengthening financial data governance, Ahikam discusses real-world solutions that empower CFOs to focus on strategy rather than spreadsheets. His expertise sheds light on how AI-driven automation reduces errors, improves efficiency, and creates room for deeper financial insights.

Tune in now if you're ready to take your financial processes to the next level and ▶️ SafeBooks AI: How AI is Shaping the Future of Small Business CFOs? With Ahikam Kaufman

Episode resources:

● Summit Virtual CFO by Anders website: https://www.summitcpa.net/

● If you have questions or would like to be a guest on the show, email us at mcpasuccessshow@anderscpa.com

● Check out the Virtual CFO Playbook Course: https://anderscpa.com/virtual-cfo-services/vcfo-playbook/

Quotes

Ahikam Kaufman - "Automation and AI should be your best friends. Whatever can be automated should be automated."
Tom Wadelton: "The biggest value we can provide to clients is not just doing the work faster, but doing it more accurately and catching issues before they become bigger problems."
Adam Hale - "There's a lot of different tools out there, but really just start with understanding what the problem is first and then attack it from that direction."

Ahikam Kaufman is the CEO of SafeBooks AI, a technology executive with deep expertise in Fintech, SaaS, business operations, and corporate finance. He has led and scaled global businesses, using technology to streamline financial processes and drive growth. At SafeBooks AI, he empowers small business CFOs to optimize decision-making through AI-driven solutions.

Website: http://www.safebooks.ai/

Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/ahikam.kaufman

Linkedin: https://www.linkedin.com/in/ahikam-kaufman-688310/

_________________________________________________________________________________________

Website: https://the-modern-cpa-success-show.simplecast.com/

Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/vcfobyanders

Linkedin: https://www.linkedin.com/company/vcfobyanders/

Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/vcfobyanders

YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@vcfobyanders

X: https://x.com/vcfobyanders

________________________________________________________________________________________

Tom Wadelton is a Virtual CFO at Summit CPA Group, bringing

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When the time comes to consider selling, it’s easy to feel buried in uncertainty and daily chaos. How do you prepare your business for sale?

In this episode, Tom Wadelton and Adam Hale from Summit Virtual CFO by Anders walk you through what it really takes to prepare your business for sale. They share straightforward insights into how to think beyond putting out daily fires and start making strategic moves that increase the value of your business.

Adam and Tom break down key valuation metrics like EBITDA, what buyers are really looking for, and how documenting your business’s financial story today can add real dollars to your sale price down the road.

You'll also hear real talk about succession planning, seller financing, and how to remove yourself from the center of your business so it runs smoothly without you.

Tune in now and start building a business that’s ready for whatever comes next.

▶️ Preparing Your Business for Sale

Episode resources:

● Summit Virtual CFO by Anders website: https://www.summitcpa.net/

● If you have questions or would like to be a guest on the show, email us at mcpasuccessshow@anderscpa.com

● Check out the Virtual CFO Playbook Course: https://vcfoplaybook.summitcpa.net/

Quotes

Tom Wadelton: "Having clear financial benchmarks and industry comparisons can significantly enhance the perceived value of your business when preparing it for sale."
Adam Hale - “To effectively prepare for a sale, businesses must proactively document their financial narratives and regularly track unusual items, ensuring clarity when potential buyers examine financial statements.”

_________________________________________________________________________________________

Website: https://the-modern-cpa-success-show.simplecast.com/

Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/vcfobyanders

Linkedin: https://www.linkedin.com/company/vcfobyanders/

Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/vcfobyanders

YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@vcfobyanders

X: https://x.com/vcfobyanders

_______________________________________________________________________________________

Tom Wadelton is a Virtual CFO at Summit Virtual CFO by Anders, bringing over 20 years of financial expertise from his tenure at a Fortune 500 company. He has extensive experience spanning financial management, accounting operations, and information technology integration. Tom specializes in delivering strategic Virtual CFO services, helping businesses optimize their financial performance through advanced accounting solutions.

Website: https://www.summitcpa.net/

LinkedIn:

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Many firms find themselves delivering outsourced accounting but struggling to break into true advisory work.

In this episode of The Modern CPA Success Show, Amy Bridges, Senior Manager of CAS Professional Services at CPA.com, shares how firms like yours can build a thriving CAS practice that’s scalable, efficient, and impactful.

Amy's journey into the world of CAS is anything but ordinary. With a background in mathematics, software, and education, she brings a unique perspective to how firms can leverage technology and structured methodologies to optimize their services.

At CPA.com, she has played a pivotal role in shaping the CAS landscape, helping firms implement frameworks that streamline their offerings and improve client outcomes.

Tune in now to hear actionable strategies and learn how CPA.com is shaping the future of Client Advisory Services!

▶️ How CPA.com Revolutionized CAS with Amy Bridges

Episode resources:

● Summit Virtual CFO by Anders website: https://www.summitcpa.net/

● If you have questions or would like to be a guest on the show, email us at mcpasuccessshow@anderscpa.com

● Check out the Virtual CFO Playbook Course: https://vcfoplaybook.summitcpa.net/

Quotes

Amy Bridges - “Initially, we focused on cloud-based accounting, but CAS has evolved significantly. Now, CPA.com is helping firms transition from basic bookkeeping to proactive, valuable advisory services.”
Tom Wadelton: "The educational tools provided by CPA.com ensure firms can deliver consistent advisory services, reducing confusion and enhancing client satisfaction."

_________________________________________________________________________________________

Amy Bridges is a seasoned professional in practice development, curriculum design, and client advocacy within the accounting industry. As a Senior Manager of Practice Development at CPA.com, she plays a pivotal role in shaping educational programs that empower CPAs for the digital age. With expertise in assessment, learning strategy, and client training, she leads the development of the Client Advisory Services (CAS) Roadmap Workshop. Her passion for innovation and strategic enablement has been instrumental in revolutionizing CAS at CPA.com.

Website: https://www.cpa.com/

Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/CPAdotcom

Youtube: https://www.youtube.com/user/CPA2BizVideo

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

https://www.linkedin.com/company/cpa-com/

X: https://x.com/cpacom

Client Advisory Services Whitepapers: https://www.cpa.com/resources?filter=Whitepapers

DCPA Conference Dec 7 – 10, 2025: https://www.cpa.com/digital-cpa 2024 CAS Benchmark Survey https://www.cpa.com/cas-benchmark-survey

___________________________________________

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In our year end wrap up: Jody, Brett, Tom, Hannah, and Jamie share favorite moments from the show, podcasting resolutions and holiday gift wishes. the hosts reflect on personal anecdotes and provide their aspirations for the upcoming year. They also introduce a new behind-the-scenes team member.

"If we have the ability to make our clients feel like heroes, that’s a complete home run. For me, that was very impactful and has changed the way we present things." – Tom Wadelton

The finer details of this episode:

Personal anecdotes and reflections on podcasting experiences.
Highlights of memorable podcast episodes and guests..
Resolutions and goals for the upcoming year in podcasting.

Episode resources:

● Summit Virtual CFO by Anders website: https://www.summitcpa.net/

● If you have questions or would like to be a guest on the show, email us at mcpasuccessshow@anderscpa.com

● Check out the Virtual CFO Playbook Course: https://vcfoplaybook.summitcpa.net/

Timestamps:

Timestamps by PodSqueezeWelcome to the Modern CPA Success Show (00:00:00)

Introduction to the podcast's mission and focus on accounting insights.

Jodi's Productivity Comment (00:00:22)

Jodi humorously notes low productivity due to the team gathering for the podcast.

Brett Congratulates Indiana University (00:00:48)

Brett celebrates Indiana University's sports victory while discussing online gambling.

Introduction of Christine (00:01:38)

Jodi introduces Christine, highlighting her contributions to the podcast team.

Minna Joins the Team (00:04:11)

Minna shares her background and new role in the podcast.

Podcast Ranking Discussion (00:04:48)

Discussion about the podcast ranking as number four among accounting firms.

Minna's Podcasting Resolution (00:05:46)

Minna expresses her goal to improve scheduling for future podcast episodes.

Brett's Podcast Experience (00:07:01)

Brett shares insights from his podcast, "The Cannabis Access Show," and its educational value.

Hannah's Favorite Episode (00:10:07)

Hannah reflects on her favorite episode featuring guests from analytics discussing AI and innovation.

Tom's Storytelling Insights (00:13:44)

Tom discusses the importance of storytelling in consulting and how it relates to clients.

Jodi's Favorite Moments (00:16:12)

Jodi shares her enjoyment of hosting the podcast and connecting with guests.

Podcast Episode Timestamps

Jodi's Reflection on Past Guests (00:18:18)

Jodi shares memorable moments from past podcast episodes, including insights from John and Zeta Marion.

Podcasting Resolutions and Christmas Lists (00:19:03)

The speakers discuss their podcasting resolutions and what they want for Christmas.

Brett's Conference Experience (00:19:50)

Brett reflects on the impact of their podcast during conferences and the joy of audience interactions.

Tom's Podcasting Goals (00:21:26)

Tom shares his aspirations for exploring storytelling and AI in future podcast episodes.

Hannah's Community Focus (00:23:33)

Hannah emphasizes the importance of creating a fun and inviting atmosphere through their podcast.

Brett on Cannabis Regulation (00:26:00)

Brett discusses the challenges cannabis businesses face due to IRS regulation 280E and its implications.

Christine's Personal Listening Goals (00:31:26)

Christine aims to minimize distractions while listening to podcasts to enhance her engagement with the content.

Gift-Giving Preferences (00:30:00)

Brett a

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Title:

Why Did the Accountant Cross the Road? To Connect with Clients on a Deeper Level!

Quote:

"My clients had and still have amazing reputations in what they do. Most of them don't need huge numbers of new clients; it's more about reputation management and keeping the marketing ticking over." -Chantal Cornelius

Summary:

In this episode of the Modern CPA Success Show, the host and Tom Walton, a virtual CFO at Anders CPA and Advisors, engage with Chantal Cornelius, founder of Appletree Marketing and author of "Stand Out Strategies." The discussion centers on innovative marketing strategies for accounting firms, emphasizing the importance of emotional connections in client relationships. Chantal shares her unique journey into marketing and introduces her five standout strategies: certainty, connection, contribution, growth, and significance. The episode highlights the need for understanding client emotions, gathering feedback, and tailoring marketing messages to resonate emotionally, ultimately fostering stronger client relationships.

Finer Details:

Innovative marketing strategies for accounting firms
Importance of emotional connections in client relationships
Chantal Cornelius's journey into marketing and her expertise
Concept of "standout strategies" for business differentiation
Five key emotional strategies: Certainty, Connection, Contribution, Growth, and Significance
The role of client feedback in improving services
Challenges of soliciting client feedback in the accounting industry
Importance of specialization and niche marketing for businesses
Practical tips for implementing emotional marketing strategies
Resources for further learning, including Chantal's books and tools for identifying standout strategies

Episode resources:

● Summit Virtual CFO by Anders website: https://www.summitcpa.net/

● If you have questions or would like to be a guest on the show, email us at mcpasuccessshow@anderscpa.com

● Check out the Virtual CFO Playbook Course: https://vcfoplaybook.summitcpa.net/

● Take Chantal's StandOut Strategies test: https://appletreeuk.com/take-the-test/

● Check out Chantal's book "StandOut Strategies" :https://appletreeuk.com/products/stand-out-strategies/

Timestamps:

Welcome to the Modern CPA Success Show (00:00:00)

Introduction to the podcast's mission and focus on innovative insights for accounting firms.

Introduction of Guest (00:00:22)

Tom introduces Chantal Cornelius, highlighting her unique emotional approach to marketing strategies.

Chantal’s Background (00:01:17)

Chantal shares her unexpected journey from animal agriculture to founding a marketing business.

Release of "Stand Out Strategies" (00:04:10)

Discussion on Chantal's upcoming book, "Stand Out Strategies," set to be printed soon.

Definition of Standout Strategies (00:04:31)

Chantal explains the concept of standout strategies and their importance in crowded marketplaces.

Five Standout Strategies Overview (00:06:38)

Chantal outlines five key strategies for businesses to differentiate themselves emotionally.

The Strategy of Certainty (00:07:55)

Clients desire a sense of safety and reliability from their service providers.

The Strategy of Connection (00:08:39)

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"As an owner of a business, it’s really nice to have control, knowing what’s coming in, what’s going out, and how much cash I have." -Adam Hale

Summary:

In this episode of the Modern CPA Success Show, hosts Tom and Adam discuss their firm's cash flow management service. They highlight the critical role of cash flow in business health, distinguishing it from financial forecasting. Their service includes a 13-week cash flow forecast, regular cash flow meetings, and detailed tracking of accounts receivable and payable. Emphasis is placed on the importance of reconciling bank accounts, maintaining communication, and ensuring accountability. The episode underscores how these practices help business owners stay informed, manage expenses, and make proactive financial decisions.

Finer details of this episode:

Importance of cash flow for businesses
Distinction between financial forecasting and cash flow management
Overview of the cash flow management service offered by the firm
Benefits of regular cash flow meetings for business owners
Process of tracking cash inflows and outflows
Role of bank account reconciliation in cash flow management
Structure and efficiency of cash flow meetings
Importance of communication and accountability in financial processes
Best practices for handling invoices and payments
Proactive approach to collections and managing outstanding invoices

Episode resources:

● Summit Virtual CFO by Anders website: https://www.summitcpa.net/

● If you have questions or would like to be a guest on the show, email us at mcpasuccessshow@anderscpa.com

● Check out the Virtual CFO Playbook Course: https://vcfoplaybook.summitcpa.net/

Timestamps:

Introduction to the Podcast (00:00:00)

The host introduces the Modern CPA Success Show and its mission to support accounting firms.

Discussion on Cash Flow Service (00:00:22)

Tom and Adam begin discussing the cash flow service offered by their firm.

Importance of Cash Flow (00:00:35)

Adam emphasizes the critical nature of cash flow for business survival and its management.

Distinction Between Cash Flow Services (00:01:01)

Adam explains the difference between financial forecasting and the cash flow management service.

Overview of Cash Flow Management (00:01:56)

Adam discusses the detailed aspects of cash flow management, including tracking income and expenses.

Weekly Cash Flow Meetings (00:02:35)

Tom highlights the value of weekly meetings for business owners to monitor cash flow.

Bill Payment Process (00:03:16)

Adam discusses the bill payment process and the importance of client oversight.

Clarification During Meetings (00:05:24)

Tom and Adam talk about the benefits of asking questions during cash flow meetings for clarity.

Meeting Duration and Frequency (00:06:33)

The speakers outline the typical duration of cash flow meetings and their frequency.

Best Practices for Invoice Management (00:07:51)

Tom emphasizes the importance of using a centralized system for managing invoices.

Accountability in Collections (00:08:38)

Adam stresses the need for accountability in following up on overdue payments.

Preparation for Cash Flow Meetings (00:09:36)

Adam explains the importance of preparation and reconciliation before meetings.

Maintaining the 13-Week Cash Flow Forecast (00:10:21)

Tom discusses the critical nature of maintaining a 13-week cash flow forecast for business p

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"If you want to understand your pricing, I need to know what your service packages are. If you want to understand how you're going to onboard a client, I need to know what your service package is." - Adam Hale

The finer details of this episode:
● Importance of service packages for accounting firms, focusing on clarity in offerings, pricing, and alignment with target client segments to enhance relevance and value.

● Structuring service packages using a "small, medium, large" model to cater to different client needs, manage resources, and improve client onboarding and communication.

●Overcoming challenges in creating service packages, including transitioning existing clients, ensuring pricing transparency, and utilizing technology like AI tools for development.

Episode resources:
● Summit Virtual CFO by Anders website: https://www.summitcpa.net/
● If you have questions or would like to be a guest on the show, email us at mcpasuccessshow@anderscpa.com
● Check out the Virtual CFO Playbook Course: https://vcfoplaybook.summitcpa.net/

Timestamps
Welcome to the Modern CPA Success Show (00:00:00)
Introduction to the podcast's mission and focus on innovative accounting insights.

Discussion on Service Packages (00:00:22)
Tom and Adam explain the importance of service packages for CAS and CFO services.

Clarity in Deliverables (00:00:50)
Emphasis on the need for clarity in service delivery through defined service packages.

Marketing and Client Attraction (00:01:51)
Aligning service packages with target client demographics for effective marketing.

Access and Time Considerations (00:02:46)
Discussion on the importance of access frequency in determining service package pricing.

Team Understanding of Packages (00:04:48)
How defined packages help team members understand client onboarding and service delivery.

Pricing and Scope Management (00:05:04)
The role of service packages in managing client expectations and pricing structures.

Refining Onboarding Processes (00:06:40)
Importance of revisiting service packages during onboarding to clarify responsibilities.

Promoting the Virtual CFO Playbook (00:07:02)
Advertisement for the Virtual CFO Playbook and its benefits for accounting firms.

Psychology of Package Creation (00:07:44)
Discussion on why many firms hesitate to create service packages and how to overcome this.

Overcoming Writer's Block (00:08:39)
Tom and Adam share insights on getting started with service package development.

Client-Centric Package Development (00:10:05)
Strategies for brainstorming and organizing service packages based on client needs.

Learning from Other Firms (00:11:05)
Encouragement to review other firms' packages for inspiration without copying directly.

Transitioning to New Packages (00:12:11)
Advice on implementing new service packages without alienating existing clients.

Testing New Packages (00:12:41)
The importance of prospectively evaluating service packages and client relationships.

Initial Pricing Transparency (00:13:52)
Benefits of presenting clear pricing options during the initial client call.

Utilizing AI in Package Development (00:16:13)
Exploration of using AI tools to brainstorm and refine service packages.

Continuous Package Improvement (00:16:47)
Encouragement to regularly update service packages to meet evolving client needs.

Closing Remarks (00:17:04)
Final thoughts on the importance of service packages and an invitation for further discussion.

View Details

In this special episode of The Modern CPA Success Show, four speakers with Halloween-themed personas—Jamie Nightmare, Hannah Hexed Hood, Adam Haunted Hale, and Joey Killing Kenny—engage in a lively draft-style discussion about their favorite Halloween movies. Jamie, the enthusiastic host, sets the stage and outlines the draft rules. Hannah humorously admits her limited horror movie experience, while Adam and Joey share their deep knowledge and personal anecdotes. The conversation is filled with playful banter and passionate debates as they each select and defend their top horror film picks, creating an engaging and entertaining Halloween-themed episode.

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"They swapped out ‘accounting’ for ‘advisory’ in CAS, but I still believe it’s 'client accounting and advisory services.' At scale, especially with small businesses, it’s hard to separate the two. You need a foundational understanding of their accounting model to help architect it in a way that truly tells their story." – Adam Hale

The finer details of this episode:

The shift from compliance work to advisory roles in accounting.
Differences between traditional accounting firm structures and mature CAS practices.
Importance of leveraging resources and delegating tasks within accounting firms.
Financial metrics and profitability considerations in CAS practices.
The concept of selling access rather than time in service pricing.
The role of regular meetings in managing client expectations and scope creep.
Adoption of a corporate-like structure for improved efficiency and adaptability.
The impact of a subscription model on client relationships and service delivery.
Strategies for accounting firms to remain competitive in a changing industry.

Timestamps:
Welcome and Introduction (00:00:00)
The host introduces the podcast and its mission to provide insights for accounting firms.

Overview of CAS (00:00:22)
Tom and Adam discuss Client Accounting Services (CAS) and advisory services, highlighting their significance.

Defining CAS (00:00:46)
Adam explains the evolution of CAS from "Client Accounting Services" to "Client Accounting and Advisory Services."

Importance of Accounting in CAS (00:01:02)
Adam emphasizes understanding accounting models for effective advisory services, especially for small businesses.

Traditional vs. CAS Structures (00:01:52)
Discussion on differences between traditional accounting firms and mature CAS practices, focusing on corporate structure.

Leveraging Resources in CAS (00:02:06)
Adam talks about the importance of leveraging resources and delegating tasks for scaling CAS practices.

Transitioning from Traditional Models (00:03:29)
Tom shares challenges faced by accounting firms transitioning from traditional models to more scalable structures.

Financial Metrics in CAS (00:04:35)
Adam discusses financial metrics, contrasting traditional firm profitability with CAS models and their structures.

Understanding Profit Margins (00:06:19)
Tom and Adam analyze profit margins in CAS compared to traditional firms, aiming for higher profitability.

Building Client Relationships (00:09:24)
Tom highlights the importance of long-term relationships with clients for smoother operations and better service.

Delegation and Offshoring (00:10:06)
Discussion on the necessity of delegating work and utilizing offshore teams to enhance efficiency.

Measuring Performance in CAS (00:11:59)
Adam explains the shift from traditional hourly metrics to responsibility-based performance measures in CAS.

Book of Business Targets (00:12:57)
Tom and Adam discuss the importance of setting clear book of business targets for team members.

Compensation Structure in CAS (00:13:39)
Adam outlines how compensation structures differ in CAS, focusing on book of business rather than hours worked.

Efficiency Over Hours (00:16:32)
Tom advocates for valuing efficiency and client satisfaction over the n

View Details

“If you're only working in the business, you're doing it wrong. Cut your activities in half. You have to free up time to think about the business, to work on the business.” – Simon Severino

The finer details of this episode:
• Transition from traditional tax-based practices to advisory-oriented services in accounting.
• Challenges faced by accounting firms in defining and marketing their services.
• Importance of understanding client needs and delivering tailored solutions.
• Decoupling time from value in professional services to enhance profitability.
• Strategies for effectively packaging and pricing advisory services.
• The role of marketing in differentiating accounting firms in a competitive landscape.
• Implementing structured approaches like "Strategy Sprints" for business growth.
• Identifying operational constraints and improving processes for better service delivery.
• Building long-term client relationships to foster loyalty and satisfaction.
• Emphasizing the need for continuous improvement and agile responses to market demands.

Timestamps:
Introduction to the Podcast (00:00:00)
Overview of the podcast's mission to provide insights on accounting firms' growth and innovation.

Guest Introduction (00:00:22)
Co-host introduces Simon Severino, highlighting his expertise and the challenges accounting firms face.

Simon's Background (00:01:29)
Simon shares his non-linear career path, emphasizing his passion for market strategy and problem-solving.

Transitioning to Advisory Services (00:03:09)
Discussion on the shift from tax-based practices to advisory services in accounting firms.

Decoupling Time from Value (00:05:14)
Simon explains the importance of separating time spent from the value delivered to clients.

Client Example: Cash Flow Reporting (00:06:15)
Illustration of how an accounting firm expanded services and improved profitability through automation.

Challenges in Changing Mindsets (00:08:54)
Discussion on the difficulty accountants face in shifting their perception of time-based billing.

High Margins of Advisory Services (00:09:31)
Simon highlights the significant profit margins in advisory services compared to traditional services.

Understanding Entrepreneurial Needs (00:10:51)
Exploration of what entrepreneurs truly need from their accounting services and reports.

Importance of Advisory in Cash Flow (00:12:40)
Discussion on the necessity of advisory services in helping clients interpret cash flow reports.

Strategic Value of Consulting (00:13:37)
Simon emphasizes the value of being a sparring partner for clients in decision-making.

Subscription-Based Services (00:14:45)
Discussion on how subscription models can help disconnect time from billing in professional services.

Impact of AI on Professional Services (00:15:58)
Simon discusses the challenges posed by AI in the financial services sector and competition.

Marketing on LinkedIn (00:17:16)
Emphasis on the importance of LinkedIn for professional services and strategies to gain mindshare.

Mindshare and Marketing Strategies (00:19:59)
Simon discusses the need for consistent marketing efforts to stay top of mind with clients.

Common Marketing Mist

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“I love Excel. It's helped me save so much time over the years, and when I began thinking about Excel more like an employee that I can delegate stuff to, it helped me save an incredible amount of time.” – Jeff Lenning

The finer details of this episode:
• Strategies for leveraging Excel to improve efficiency
• Continuous learning and development in Excel
• Common pitfalls and challenges in Excel usage
• Mindset shift from "if" to "how" in using Excel
• Role of AI in enhancing Excel skills
• Structure and offerings of Excel University
• Key Excel functions and features for accountants
• Real-world applications and case studies using Excel
• Importance of presentation skills in Excel reporting

Episode resources:
● Summit Virtual CFO by Anders website: https://www.summitcpa.net/
● If you have questions or would like to be a guest on the show, email us at mcpasuccessshow@anderscpa.com
● Check out the Virtual CFO Playbook Course: https://vcfoplaybook.summitcpa.net/
● Connect with Jeff here: https://www.linkedin.com/in/jefflenning/
● Check out Excel University here: https://www.excel-university.com/tips

Timestamps:
Introduction to the Episode (00:00:00)
Overview of the podcast's mission to provide insights on innovative tools and strategies in accounting.

Guest Introduction (00:00:22)
Tom introduces Jeff, a Microsoft MVP and founder of Excel University, highlighting his career background.

Why Excel University? (00:01:18)
Jeff explains his passion for Excel and how it transformed his workflow efficiency.

Continuous Improvement in Excel (00:02:27)
Discussion on the iterative process of optimizing Excel workbooks for efficiency and accuracy.

The "Last Year" Trap (00:04:06)
Jeff addresses how accountants often stick to familiar methods without seeking improvements.

Mindset Shift in Excel Usage (00:05:53)
Jeff shares his approach of asking "how" instead of "if" when automating tasks in Excel.

Learning with AI Tools (00:07:00)
Jeff discusses the benefits of using AI to enhance Excel skills and troubleshoot formulas.

Excel University Experience (00:09:02)
Overview of the structured learning approach at Excel University, focusing on sequential knowledge building.

Continuing Education Credits (00:11:44)
Information on CPE credits offered through Excel University’s programs.

Focus on Presentation Skills (00:12:11)
Discussion on improving both functionality and presentation of Excel reports for better client communication.

Charting in Excel (00:14:16)
Tom and Jeff discuss the challenges of formatting charts in Excel for effective presentations.

Key Excel Functions for Accountants (00:15:25)
Jeff highlights essential Excel functions that every accountant should master.

Power Query's Benefits (00:16:59)
Jeff explains how Power Query automates data processing, saving time and improving efficiency.

Real-Time Data Refresh (00:18:07)
Benefits of using Excel for live updates during client meetings, enhancing responsiveness.

The Impact of Spreadsheets (00:19:01)
Discussion on the historical significance of spreadsheets in making personal computers indispensable.

Microsoft's Ongoing Investment in Excel (00:19:51)
Discussion on Microsoft's continuous updates and new features in Excel.

Learning Excel Functions (00:20:17)
Importance of learning new Excel functions beyond the basics through courses and online resources.

YouTube Channel Promotion (00:20:38)
Jeff shares his YouTube channel for quick Excel tips and updates.

Searching for Excel Functions (00:21:06)
Common issue of not knowing advanced functions like Power Query and XLOOKUP.

Benefits of XLOOKUP (00:22:00)
Explanation of XLOOKUP as a more resilient alternative to VLOOKUP.

Excel University Audience (00:22:28)
Overview of diverse student demographics, including CPAs and accounting professors.

Student Confidence Boost (00:23:49)
Feedback on how Excel training increases students' confidence in interviews.

Underestimating Excel's Importance (00:24:33)
Discussion on college students' misconceptions about Excel's relevance in their careers.

Using Excel for Client Projects (00:25:35)
Example of using Excel to model client scenarios and decision-making.

Introverts and Problem Solving (00:25:48)
Jeff shares his enjoyment of solving problems with Excel as an introvert.

Google Sheets vs. Excel (00:26:27)
Comparison of Google Sheets and Excel for collaborative work.

Sharing Documents in Google Sheets (00:27:39)
Discussion on the ease of sharing documents in Google Sheets compared to Excel.

Gateway Computers Experience (00:28:25)
Jeff reminisces about working at Gateway Computers and its rapid growth.

Gateway's Growth Challenges (00:29:28)
Stories of Gateway's ongoing expansion and the challenges faced.

Excel Training at Gateway (00:31:08)
Jeff's initial experience teaching Excel at Gateway's training centers.

Role of Excel in Career Progression (00:32:53)
Discussion on how various roles contributed to Jeff's Excel expertise.

Daily Excel Usage (00:34:38)
Jeff explains his daily engagement with Excel and content development.

Office Hours Collaboration (00:35:34)
The supportive environment of office hours where students share and learn from each other.

Learning from Peer Demonstrations (00:36:08)
Reflections on how sharing simple Excel techniques can lead to broader learning.

Pivot Tables' Impact (00:37:09)
Discussion on the transformative power of pivot tables in Excel.

Pivot Tables and Formatting (00:38:07)
Discussion on the importance of pivot tables and their time-saving formatting features.

Power Query Feature (00:38:32)
Jeff highlights Power Query as the most impressive Excel feature in the last two decades.

Using Tables for Efficiency (00:38:44)
Tables help eliminate errors and automatically adjust ranges in Excel functions.

Indirect Function Discovery (00:39:12)
Tom shares how the INDIRECT function simplified his work with changing templates from multiple countries.

Time-Saving with INDIRECT (00:39:52)
Tom explains how the INDIRECT function dramatically reduced turnaround time for presenting data.

Learning from Excel University (00:40:46)
Tom expresses motivation to improve Excel skills and acknowledges the value of Excel University.

Time Efficiency Gains (00:41:11)
Jeff mentions the significant time efficiency benefits experienced by his students.

View Details

“The smartest people in the world know where their expertise ends and someone else's begins. We all need to understand that because if we're on the right team, everybody wins.” – Michael Clarke

The finer details of this episode:
• Transitioning from individual-centric practices to sustainable business models in professional services.
• Importance of teamwork and collaboration among professionals serving the same clients.
• Common mistakes made by professional service providers in managing their firms.
• Strategies for building trust and effective communication with clients.
• The significance of understanding and targeting ideal clients for growth.
• The role of support staff in enhancing client relationships and operational efficiency.
• The concept of “trust compression” and its impact on client onboarding and retention.
• Emphasizing education and clear communication in the advisory process.
• The value of networking and continuous learning for professional development.

Episode resources:
● Summit Virtual CFO by Anders website: https://www.summitcpa.net/
● If you have questions or would like to be a guest on the show, email us at mcpasuccessshow@anderscpa.com
● Check out the Virtual CFO Playbook Course: https://vcfoplaybook.summitcpa.net/
● Connect with Michael here:
● Check Protection Point Advisors out here: https://www.protectionpointadvisors.com/advisors/team/mike-clarke/
Timestamps:
Welcome and Introduction (00:00:00)
The host introduces the podcast and its mission to provide insights for accounting firms.

Guest Introduction (00:00:22)
Adam shares his thoughts on the upcoming discussion with guest Michael Clarke and his book.

Michael Clarke's Career Journey (00:01:40)
Michael discusses his background in the insurance industry and the founding of Protection Point Advisors.

Overview of "A Firm Worth Building" (00:03:03)
Michael explains the motivation behind his book and the lessons learned from his mistakes.

Transitioning from Individual Practice to Business (00:04:13)
Michael emphasizes the importance of moving from individual-centered practices to sustainable business models.

Building Relationships with Other Professionals (00:06:03)
Michael highlights the value of collaboration between professionals to enhance client service.

Common Mistakes in Firm Management (00:09:21)
Michael identifies key mistakes professionals make, such as being the center of their practice.

Practical Lessons in the Book (00:12:12)
Adam asks Michael to share one crucial lesson from his book on managing professional firms.

Understanding Trust Compression (00:12:50)
Michael introduces the concept of trust compression and its significance in client relationships.

Education as a Key Element (00:15:27)
Michael discusses the importance of educating clients to build trust and improve service quality.

Applying Trust Compression Beyond Onboarding (00:17:59)
Michael suggests ways to apply trust compression in various processes, not just onboarding.

Making Client Interactions Painless (00:19:01)
Michael stresses the need to solve client problems while making the process as painless as possible.

Good Growth Explained (21:22)
Michael discusses the concept of "good growth" and why professionals struggle with it.

Identifying Ideal Clients (22:48)
He emphasizes the importance of knowing your ideal clients to avoid bad growth.

Balancing Growth and Client Quality (23:35)
The speakers discuss the challenge of balancing client acquisition with maintaining quality.

Building a Reliable Referral Network (25:09)
Michael shares insights on developing a trustworthy referral network for business growth.

Creating Effective Partnerships (27:34)
He explains how partnerships can enhance client services and improve business outcomes.

Edifying Team Members (32:21)
Michael stresses the importance of building up colleagues to foster trust and collaboration.

Managing Client Growth (33:17)
Discussion on the common belief of firing low-priced clients to make room for better ones.

Building What Should Exist (39:43)
Michael defines his philosophy of creating optimal solutions for client care within CPA firms.

Practical Changes in Practice (00:41:08)
Discusses how professionals can implement small, incremental changes rather than overhauling their entire practice.

Importance of Support Staff (00:41:58)
Emphasizes the role of support staff in making professionals look good and the need to value them properly.

Learning to Manage (00:42:41)
Michael reflects on his journey to becoming a better boss and the importance of self-improvement.

Transitioning from Doing to Managing (00:43:12)
Highlights the urgency for professionals to transition from doing the work to effectively managing their business.

Collaborative Learning in Networks (00:44:48)
Michael advocates for joining networks to learn from peers and create a collaborative environment for growth.

Inspiration and Continuous Learning (00:46:05)
Encourages surrounding oneself with inspiring individuals and cultivating a habit of reading for personal and professional growth.

View Details

“Procrastination is a huge problem, but the bigger problem is the lack of awareness of the need for owners to start planning now, whether you're selling in three years or 13 years.” – Adam Koós

The finer details of this episode:

Financial strategies for clients with appreciated properties
Challenges faced by business owners in managing real estate assets and company structures
Tax implications of selling a business and recasting financials
Importance of proactive financial planning and business transition for business owners

Episode resources:

Summit Virtual CFO by Anders website: https://www.summitcpa.net/
If you have questions or would like to be a guest on the show, email us at mcpasuccessshow@anderscpa.com
Check out the Virtual CFO Playbook Course: https://vcfoplaybook.summitcpa.net/
Connect with Adam here: https://www.linkedin.com/in/adamkoos/
Check out Libertas Wealth here: http://www.LibertasWealth.com

Timestamps:

The introduction (00:00:00)

The hosts introduce the podcast and its mission, providing insights on accounting strategies and innovative tools.

Adam's career story (00:00:55)

Adam shares his unconventional career journey from pre-med to becoming a financial advisor and the founding of Libertas Wealth Management Group.

Services provided by Libertas (00:04:45)

Adam discusses Libertas' services, including financial planning, retirement planning, exit planning for business owners, and working with working professionals.

Financial strategies for clients with appreciated properties (00:07:26)

Adam explains the 1031 exchange and passive real estate investing as a solution for clients with appreciated properties who want to avoid active management and taxes.

Liquidity and risk management in passive real estate investing (00:13:51)

The discussion explores the liquidity and risk management aspects of passive real estate investing, including spreading risk by investing in multiple properties.

Impact of COVID-19 on commercial real estate (00:15:39)

Adam discusses the potential impact of COVID-19 on commercial real estate, including lease expirations and mortgage debt held at community banks.

Elevate your firm with a virtual CFO playbook (00:16:36)

An advertisement for a comprehensive online series to create and deliver scalable CFO services.

Real estate and business ownership (00:17:18)

Discussion on the strategy of keeping the building and retaining an income stream after retirement.

Transition planning and exit planning (00:18:00)

Clients' experiences in selling their companies, keeping properties, and the process of selling properties.

Engagements with business owners (00:18:55)

Exploration of the two types of engagements with business owners, focusing on personal and business guidance.

12-step process for business owners (00:19:47)

Explanation of the 12-step process to increase the value of the company, decrease time in the business, and increase efficiencies.

Risk assessment and advisory work (00:21:34)

Discussion on risk assessment, tax planning, and the need for expert assistance in various aspects of business planning.

Recasting and tax strategies (00:23:47)

Importance of recasting business expenses and tax strategies for business owners preparing to sell.

Cash balance plan and retirement strategies (00:26:27)

Explanation of cash balance plans, retirement contributions, and tax reduction strategies for business owners.

Exit planning and retirement (00:31:05)

Discussion on optimizing cash, Roth conversions, and planning for retirement and exit strategies.

Procrastination and Lack of Awareness (00:33:17)

Consequences of procrastination in business planning and the lack of awareness about the need for owners to start planning now.

Running a Good Business (00:35:22)

The importance of running a good business and differentiating between a lifestyle business and building an asset.

Transition Planning and Business Value (00:36:32)

The importance of business transition planning and its impact on the value of the company, providing an analogy for understanding the benefits.

Selling a Business and Pitfalls (00:39:46)

The speakers discuss the pitfalls of selling a business without proper planning and the impact of disagreements between owners on the selling process.

Taking Action and Accountability (00:42:12)

The need for taking action, breaking down steps into smaller tasks, and the importance of accountability in business planning.

Spreading Awareness and Seeking Expertise (00:44:23)

Adam urges CPAs to spread awareness about business planning and transition, emphasizing the role of experts in facilitating the process.

View Details

“The reason I started Modeliks is because it took me three weeks to create a proper financial model in Excel for every new client. With our predefined financial model template, you have that handed to you on a plate.” – Blagoja Hamamdjiev

The finer details of this episode:

Discussion about business planning and financial reporting software for startups and small businesses
Main features of Modeliks software, including financial planning, budgeting, and advisory services
Importance of driver-based financial planning and its impact on business results
Cost-effectiveness and pre-defined financial model templates by industry within the software
Integration of financial tables and charts with pitch decks and business plans
Efficiency and time-saving benefits of using the software for financial modeling and planning
Dashboard functionality, including tracking financial progress and accessing various charts
User experience and flexibility of the software, including multi-user collaboration and planned AI integration
Levels of support provided by Modeliks, including customer support and live sessions with screen sharing

Episode resources:

Summit Virtual CFO by Anders website: https://www.summitcpa.net/
If you have questions or would like to be a guest on the show, email us at mcpasuccessshow@anderscpa.com
Check out the Virtual CFO Playbook Course: https://vcfoplaybook.summitcpa.net/
Check out Modeliks, here: www.modeliks.com

Timestamps:

The introduction (00:00:00)

The hosts introduce the podcast and its mission, setting the stage for the upcoming episode.

Guest Introduction and Background (00:01:48)

The hosts introduce Blagoja Hamamdjiev, CEO and founder of Modeliks, and discuss his personal and professional background.

Global Nature of Modeliks (00:04:22)

Blagoja discusses the global footprint of Modeliks, including the location of their team and their incorporation in Ireland.

Using Modeliks for Financial Planning and Advisory Services (00:07:51)

Blagoja explains how Modeliks can be used for creating financial plans, pitch decks, and business plans, including its applications for advisory services.

Driver-Based Financial Planning (00:11:32)

Blagoja delves into the concept of driver-based financial planning and its importance in managing and improving businesses.

Integration of Financials with Pitch Deck and Business Plan (00:16:29)

Discussion on how Modeliks integrates financials with pitch decks and business plans, providing a unique and efficient solution for businesses.

Cost and Industry-Specific Financial Model Templates (00:19:31)

Blagoja highlights the cost-effectiveness of Modeliks compared to other software and the availability of industry-specific financial model templates within the software.

Creating Financial Models (00:20:26)

Blagoja explains the time-consuming process of creating financial models in Excel and the efficiency of using Modeliks templates.

Flexibility and Data Integration (00:22:31)

Discussion on the flexibility and data integration capabilities of Modeliks, including the current and planned data input methods and integrations.

Dashboard and Reporting Functionality (00:28:12)

Blagoja details the dashboard and reporting functionalities of Modeliks, including variance analysis, charts, ratios, and custom KPIs.

Future AI Integration (00:32:01)

The planned integration of AI features in Modeliks, such as generative writing and AI analysis of financial numbers, is discussed.

Challenges in Financial Planning (00:34:29)

The challenges CPAs face in creating financial models and the barriers to providing advisory services are explored.

Excel vs. Other Tools (00:36:26)

The use of Excel in financial planning and the challenges and benefits of using other software tools are discussed.

Collaboration and Pricing (00:38:53)

The flexibility and real-time collaboration capabilities of Modeliks, as well as the pricing structure and value proposition, are explained.

Support and Training (00:40:22)

The support and training options available for users of Modeliks, including live support and demo calls, are discussed.

Live Support and Niche Industry Models (00:40:54)

Discussion about live support, niche industry financial models, and personalized assistance for clients.

Help Center and Training Videos (00:42:00)

Explanation of the extensive help center with training videos and the value of personalized onboarding and training sessions.

Consolidation Feature and Multi-Dimensional Planning (00:43:52)

Upcoming features in the software, including a consolidation feature and multi-dimensional planning for more complex businesses.

Future Software Updates (00:45:29)

Anticipation for upcoming software updates, including QuickBooks integration, multi-dimensional planning, and localization in different languages.

Advisory Services and Financial Planning (00:45:55)

The importance of advisory services and the value of creating a useful financial plan based on drivers.

Passion for Driver-Based Financial Planning (00:47:01)

The speaker's passion for creating logical and impactful financial plans based on drivers, and the importance of setting targets.

Role of Advisors in Business Management (00:48:08)

The role of advisors in helping entrepreneurs with the analytical part of running a business and the value of collaboration.

Conclusion and Podcast Promotion (00:48:27)

Closing remarks and promotion of the podcast website for more resources on modern CPA firm success.

View Details

“The total relationship is about making life better for the client, focusing on what they need in the next 6 to 12 months, and helping them prioritize their financial decisions.” –Tyson Ray

The finer details of this episode:

The concept of the "total relationship" in financial planning
The importance of understanding clients' short-term goals and concerns
The role of wealth advisors in understanding clients' motivations and aspirations
Proactive planning and collaboration between financial advisors, CPAs, and attorneys
Educating clients about tax planning, investment decisions, and trade-offs
Seeking deeper, more fulfilling connections beyond just financial matters

Episode resources:

Summit Virtual CFO by Anders website: https://www.summitcpa.net/
If you have questions or would like to be a guest on the show, email us at mcpasuccessshow@anderscpa.com
Check out the Virtual CFO Playbook Course: https://vcfoplaybook.summitcpa.net/
Connect with Tyson here: https://www.linkedin.com/in/tysonray/
Check out Form Wealth Advisors here: https://formwealth.com/
Tyson’s resources mentioned in the episode: https://totalrelationship.com/moderncpa

Timestamps:

The welcome and introduction (00:00:00)

Introduction to the podcast and the mission of providing insights for accounting firms.

Guest introduction and perspective (00:00:30)

Discussion about the unique perspective of the guest, Tyson Ray, and the value he brings to the audience.

Introduction to the show and guest (00:00:53)

The host and guest host introduce themselves and welcome the audience to the show.

Tyson Ray's background and mission (00:01:19)

Tyson Ray introduces himself, his role, and his mission to help clients and the community.

The total relationship and client value (00:02:43)

Discussion about the importance of understanding the client's needs and building a valuable relationship.

Expanding services and expertise (00:03:40)

Tyson Ray's decision to expand his expertise and focus on business exit planning.

The Total Relationship book (00:05:05)

Introduction to the book "The Total Relationship" and its focus on client relationships and communication.

Client-focused planning approach (00:06:31)

Explanation of the three parts of the total relationship: life plan, wealth plan, and care plan.

Client relationship parallels (00:08:10)

Discussion about the similarities in client-focused approaches between wealth management and financial business services.

Prioritizing client needs (00:08:31)

The importance of prioritizing client needs and guiding them through their financial journey.

Life plan and client background (00:10:04)

Exploration of the life plan, including family, health, and personal goals, to better understand the client's needs.

Client's family and personal life (00:11:28)

The significance of understanding the client's family dynamics, including parents, children, and personal experiences.

Life plan and client's lifestyle (00:14:18)

Discussion about the life plan, including travel, recreation, home improvements, and major purchases, to enhance the client's lifestyle.

Client's life plan and financial decisions (00:15:53)

The importance of aligning financial decisions with the client's life plan and rewarding themselves for their hard work.

The Total Relationship and client permission (00:17:10)

Exploration of the client's permission to prioritize their life plan and the role of advisors in supporting their goals.

Life Plan (00:19:16)

Advisors asking forward-looking questions, encouraging clients to enjoy their wealth and plan for personal goals.

Virtual CFO Playbook (00:19:57)

Promotion of a comprehensive online series to equip firms with essential tools for scalable CFO services.

Wealth Advisor Conversations (00:20:40)

Discussing the process of building trust with clients, understanding motivations, and opening conversations about personal and business goals.

Life Plan and Wealth Plan Intersection (00:22:03)

Exploring the connection between life and wealth plans, emphasizing the importance of understanding clients' personal and business needs.

Wealth Plan Proactivity (00:23:58)

Identifying cash management, business debt, and proactive planning to navigate financial crises and business transitions.

Business Succession and Life Plan (00:27:03)

Addressing business owners' plans for exiting their businesses, including transitions and contingency planning.

Collaboration and Tax Planning (00:28:50)

Highlighting the benefits of collaboration between financial advisors, CPAs, and law firms for better client outcomes.

Future-Focused Financial Advice (00:30:44)

Emphasizing the importance of future-focused financial advice and the collaboration between wealth management and tax planning.

Caring for Financial Future (00:31:23)

Reminding clients of their goals, proactive service, and helping clients make informed financial decisions.

Personal Wealth Building (00:34:09)

Encouraging clients to consider personal wealth-building options and the impact on business sustainability.

Tax Planning and Client Education (00:35:01)

Educating clients on tax deductions, structure, planning, and the importance of making informed financial decisions.

Wealth Building Strategies (00:35:49)

Encouraging personal wealth building for business owners to reduce stress and secure financial stability.

Roth Tax-Free and Deductions (00:36:45)

Navigating discussions on Roth tax-free options, deductions, and the impact on future tax liabilities.

Client Engagement and Care Plan (00:37:48)

Frequency of client engagement, revisiting life plans, and maintaining a standard cadence for care planning.

Clients' Meeting Frequency (00:37:48)

Tyson discusses the importance of tailoring meeting frequency to clients' needs and life events.

Adjusting Meeting Frequency (00:38:42)

Tyson explains how the frequency of client meetings should be adjusted based on the rhythm of life and life events.

Over-servicing Clients (00:39:37)

Tyson shares his experience of over-servicing clients and emphasizes the need to align service frequency with clients' actual needs.

Client Scheduling Expectations (00:41:11)

Jamie and Tyson discuss the importance of understanding clients' preferences for meeting schedules and setting expectations.

Final Thoughts and Relationship Building (00:43:51)

Adam and Tyson emphasize the value of building relationships and learning from professionals in different industries.

Virtual Relationship Building (00:45:04)

Tyson highlights the opportunity to build relationships virtually and reach clients beyond traditional demographics.

Securities through Raymond James Financial Services, Inc. Member FINRA / SIPC. Investment advisory services are offered through Raymond James Financial Services Advisors Inc. FORM Wealth Advisors is not a registered broker/dealer and is independent of Raymond James Financial Services. Raymond James and its advisors do not provide tax advice. Podcast guest is Tyson Ray, CEO, Founding Partner, Senior Wealth Advisor at FORM Wealth Advisors. FORM Wealth Advisors is located at 431 Geneva National Ave S, Lake Geneva, WI, 53147; 262-686-3005.

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Episode Notes:

“Our mission is to educate, inspire, and support accountants, financial advisors, and CFOs who are representing a client with a need for any type of entity filings, entity setup, entity expansion, or payroll tax registration services.” – Nellie Akalp

The finer details of this episode:

Services offered by CorpNet and their benefits for accountants and clients
Challenges faced by accountants in providing comprehensive services to their clients
Importance of accountants offering entity filings, setup, expansion, and payroll tax registration services
CorpNet’s partner program and its benefits for accountants
Managing compliance requirements for clients' business entities
Benefits of outsourcing business filings and compliance tasks for accountants

Episode resources:

Summit Virtual CFO by Anders website: https://www.summitcpa.net/

If you have questions or would like to be a guest on the show, email us at mcpasuccessshow@anderscpa.com

Check out the Virtual CFO Playbook Course: https://vcfoplaybook.summitcpa.net/

Connect with Nellie here: https://www.linkedin.com/in/nellieakalp/

Check out CorpNet here: https://www.corpnet.com/

Timestamps:

Introduction to podcast (00:00:00)

Introduction to the podcast, mission statement, and topics covered.

Overview of CorpNet.com services (00:00:58)

Introduction to CorpNet.com and its services for accountants and their clients.

Nellie Akalp's entrepreneurial journey (00:01:18)

Nellie Akalp shares her entrepreneurial journey and the vision behind CorpNet.com.

Challenges faced by accountants (00:05:06)

Discussion on the challenges accountants face in offering comprehensive services to their clients.

Benefits of CorpNet.com partner program (00:11:09)

Explanation of the benefits of CorpNet.com's partner program for accountants.

Core services offered by CorpNet.com (00:17:14)

Description of the core services provided by CorpNet.com, including business filings, compliance, and payroll tax registration.

Impact of COVID-19 on CorpNet.com (00:19:22)

Discussion on the increased demand for services during COVID-19, particularly regarding payroll registration in multiple states.

Differences in starting a company in the past and present (00:22:26)

Comparison of the entrepreneurial experience in the past and present, including the challenges and differences in market entry.

Client consultation and advice (00:24:29)

Discussion on typical new client scenarios and advice provided when starting a new company.

Educational services for new business owners (00:24:44)

Nellie Akalp discusses the educational aspect of CorpNet.com's services for new business owners, including guides, webinars, and podcasts.

Support for accountants starting their own firm (00:25:19)

Nellie Akalp explains how CorpNet.com assists accountants in starting their own firm by providing guidance, resources, and educational materials.

Benefits of partnering with CorpNet.com (00:26:41)

Nellie Akalp outlines the advantages for accountants in partnering with CorpNet.com, including early client engagement, business growth, and a complete advisory service.

Enhancing firm capabilities through partnerships (00:28:02)

The discussion centers around the benefits of partnering with CorpNet.com for small firms to offer comprehensive services and appear as a larger, full-service firm.

The mistake accountants make in not offering services (00:29:49)

Nellie Akalp emphasizes the missed opportunities for accountants by not offering services like entity filings and compliance, and the potential benefits of such offerings.

Corporate compliance portal for accountants (00:33:19)

The conversation focuses on CorpNet.com's corporate compliance portal, which simplifies tracking and monitoring compliance requirements for accountants and their clients.

Challenges and consequences of compliance errors (00:40:25)

The discussion highlights the challenges and consequences of compliance errors, emphasizing the importance of staying current and the potential repercussions of non-compliance.

The value of corporate compliance services (00:39:27)

Nellie Akalp discusses the benefits of corporate compliance services for accountants, emphasizing the time-saving and reputation-building aspects.

Initiating partnership with CorpNet.com (00:45:32)

Nellie Akalp provides details on initiating a partnership with CorpNet.com, including the process of signing up, onboarding, and accessing marketing materials.

Account Manager and Onboarding Process (00:47:35)

Discusses the benefits of having a dedicated account manager and the importance of onboarding process for success.

Client Engagement and Delegation (00:48:56)

Compares the process of client engagement and delegation to the success of the program.

Signing Up and Partner Options (00:49:50)

Provides information on how accountants can sign up for the partner program and the various options available.

Contact Information and Upcoming Event (00:51:01)

Shares contact details for signing up and promotes the upcoming event where CorpNet.com will be present.

Podcast Promotion (00:52:47)

Promotes the podcast and directs listeners to the website for more resources.

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“In the American workplace, 80% of workers feel stress on the job, and nearly half say they need help in learning how to manage stress. If your people are stressed and they're not talking to you about it, that's a clue that you need to change something in your organization.” – Joey Kinney

The finer details of this episode:

●Stress management in the workplace and at home

●Challenges of setting boundaries and prioritizing tasks in work-life balance

●Impact of stress on personal lives and managing competing interests

●Role of leaders in addressing recurring structural problems contributing to stress

Episode resources:

Summit Virtual CFO by Anders website: https://www.summitcpa.net/
If you have questions or would like to be a guest on the show, email us at mcpasuccessshow@anderscpa.com
Check out the Virtual CFO Playbook Course: https://vcfoplaybook.summitcpa.net/
For more on David Allen’s Getting Things Done® approach mentioned in the episode, check out the Modern CPA Success Show’s episode with Tom and David Allen: https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/getting-things-done-with-david-allen/id1485035727?i=1000595997191

Timestamps:

The podcast introduction (00:00:00)

Introduction to the podcast and its purpose.

Discussing the intention of merging podcasts (00:00:33)

Exploring the idea of merging podcasts to create intentional opportunities for audiences to interact.

The impact of stress in the workplace (00:01:04)

Exploring the impact of stress on individuals in the workplace and the need for stress management.

Challenges in managing work-life balance (00:03:07)

Challenges in compartmentalizing work and home life, and the evolving understanding of work-life balance.

Statistics on workplace stress (00:04:52)

Statistics on workplace stress, including the percentage of workers feeling stress and the need for stress management.

Personal experience with stress and its impact on health (00:06:00)

Personal experience with stress-related health issues and the impact on blood pressure.

Impact of stress on decision-making and anxiety (00:09:20)

The impact of stress on decision-making, anxiety triggers, and external locus of control.

Managing conflicting priorities and setting boundaries (00:14:31)

Strategies for managing conflicting priorities, setting boundaries, and learning to say no.

Practical tips for stress management (00:16:02)

Practical tips for stress management, including exercise, meditation, and acknowledging anxiety.

Defining Boundaries (00:18:01)

Discusses setting clear limits and commitments to avoid stress and exploding on others.

Making Decisions to Reduce Stress (00:18:41)

Explores the concept of making one decision now to avoid making multiple decisions later.

Saying No and Prioritizing (00:19:38)

Discusses the importance of saying no to tasks and commitments and prioritizing responsibilities.

Recognizing Personal Limits (00:20:23)

Shares experiences of struggling with certain tasks and the importance of acknowledging personal limitations.

Getting Things Done Approach (00:22:55)

Discusses the approach by David Allen for organizational models and stress management.

Acknowledging Stress and Anxiety (00:25:21)

Emphasizes the importance of acknowledging stress and anxiety instead of denying or internalizing it.

Creating a Safe Space for Stress Discussions (00:26:13)

Encourages leaders to create an environment where employees feel safe discussing stress and challenges.

Leadership's Role in Stress Management (00:29:21)

Highlights the role of leaders in initiating conversations about stress and creating a supportive environment.

Addressing Structural Problems (00:32:54)

Emphasizes the importance of leaders addressing recurring structural problems causing stress.

Managing Stress in the Workplace (00:33:32)

Encourages individuals to manage stress rather than seeking a stress-free job, acknowledging personal responsibility.

Stress Management Tools (00:35:02)

Discussion on effective stress management tools for creating a positive work environment and improving productivity.

Closing Remarks (00:35:18)

Tom expresses gratitude for the conversation, and Joey reciprocates the sentiment.

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“Your Spidey sense has to be high during onboarding. If you start to sense frustration from the client, there might be something else that you need to dig into. I might send them a quick note and say, ‘hey, do you mind if we talk tonight?’ and I offer up my cell phone number. I've never had a client abuse it. In fact, as you start to build those relationships, they'll text you just like your friends; they don't talk business. It's really important that you establish that relationship and that connection.” – Adam Hale

The finer details of this episode:

Importance of formalized onboarding processes
Building strong client relationships
Leveraging support resources for successful onboarding
Significance of discovery in the onboarding process
Building relationships with clients and internal team members
Leadership and collaboration in ancillary roles
Leveraging resources and coaching relationships for career progression
Effective communication and collaboration within the team and with clients
Tailoring services to meet specific client needs
Utilizing available resources for ongoing success

Episode resources:

Summit Virtual CFO by Anders website: https://www.summitcpa.net/
If you have questions or would like to be a guest on the show, email us at mcpasuccessshow@anderscpa.com
Check out the Virtual CFO Playbook Course: https://vcfoplaybook.summitcpa.net/
Connect with us on LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/company/vcfobyanders/, https://www.linkedin.com/in/adamhalecpa/, https://www.linkedin.com/in/joey-kinney-cpa-60658188/

Timestamps:

Welcome to the Modern CPA Success Show (00:00:00)

Introduction to the podcast and its mission to provide insights on accounting innovations.

Background of Onboarding (00:00:58)

Discussion on the formalization of the onboarding process and its importance for client success.

Discovery Process in Onboarding (00:04:28)

Importance of the discovery process in understanding client's financial status and needs.

Elevate Your Firm with a Virtual CFO Playbook (00:05:08)

Promotion of a comprehensive online series for providing scalable CFO services.

CFO's Perspective on Discovery (00:06:19)

Insight into the CFO's perspective on client discovery and understanding their business goals.

Building Relationships in Onboarding (00:09:26)

Tips for building relationships with clients and internal team members during the onboarding process.

Client Relationship and Engagement (00:13:45)

Importance of establishing trust and personal connections with clients during the onboarding process.

Support Resources in Onboarding (00:17:33)

Discussion on the role of support resources, including project managers and financial support, in the onboarding process.

Architecting and Leading Engagement (00:18:32)

Discussion on the role of CFOs in leading engagements and leveraging resources effectively.

Coaching Expectations (00:19:39)

Exploration of the coaching structure and the expectations for individuals seeking coaching.

Utilizing Resources and Collaboration (00:20:57)

Importance of utilizing resources, seeking help, and collaborating for successful outcomes.

Expectations and Collaboration (00:22:29)

Emphasizing the importance of understanding and articulating expectations, collaboration, and managing up within the team.

Success and Relationship Building (00:27:09)

Defining success in terms of utilizing the team's capabilities, building relationships, and collaborating with clients and internal teams.

Onboarding and Client Relationships (00:25:48)

Discussion on the importance of understanding client needs, building rapport, and setting up successful advisory relationships.

Standardizing vs. Tailoring (00:28:33)

Balancing standardization with tailoring to meet the unique needs of each client during onboarding.

Conclusion and Future Training (00:29:22)

Acknowledgment of the importance of onboarding, overview of training, and setting expectations for success.

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“Spending time onboarding can be tough for firms because it's not billable, but it is probably more important for the value proposition.” – Chris Papin

The finer details of this episode:

Scoping, setting boundaries, and having next step conversations with clients
Subscription-based model and building slack into engagements
Managing scope creep in advisory work
Impact of economic changes on client needs
Aligning client and firm expectations
Implementing change orders for additional services
Onboarding and spending time on non-billable activities

Episode resources:

Summit Virtual CFO by Anders website: https://www.summitcpa.net/
If you have questions or would like to be a guest on the show, email us at mcpasuccessshow@anderscpa.com
Check out the Virtual CFO Playbook Course: https://vcfoplaybook.summitcpa.net/
https://www.papincpa.com/
https://www.linkedin.com/in/chrispapin/

Timestamps:

The Introduction (00:00:00)

Introducing the podcast and its mission to provide insights on accounting strategies and services.

Chris Papin's Background (00:00:56)

Chris Papin shares his journey and the motivation behind his multi-disciplinary approach to accounting, law, and insurance.

Ethical Trust Advisor (00:04:24)

Chris discusses the importance of ethical trust advisor pillars and the difference between scope and boundaries in client relationships.

Scope and Boundaries (00:06:45)

The discussion delves into the approach to defining tasks and boundaries in accounting services, emphasizing the need for flexibility and communication.

Strategic Advisor and Boundaries (00:13:18)

Chris explains the role of a strategic advisor and the ongoing conversation needed to establish and maintain boundaries with clients.

Client Communication and Education (00:17:02)

The conversation revolves around the challenges of communicating technical accounting concepts to clients and the importance of client education and trust-building.

The slippery slope of advisory work (00:20:32)

Discussion on the challenges of defining boundaries and managing scope creep in advisory work.

Talking about talking about it (00:21:48)

Emphasizing the need for action and the impact of missed deadlines on client behavior.

Value and hard conversations (00:25:00)

Exploring the importance of adding value, having opinions, and asking tough questions in client meetings.

Client expectations and firm alignment (00:33:06)

Aligning client and firm expectations early in the process to determine next steps and potential change orders.

Empowerment and change order process (00:38:55)

Discussion on team empowerment to handle conversations and initiate change orders, with consideration for unique client situations.

The client's expectations (00:40:05)

Managing client expectations and limitations when dealing with out-of-state matters.

Client engagement model (00:40:56)

Discussing the importance of clarity in scoping, fees, and trust in client relationships.

Value proposition and onboarding (00:42:47)

Emphasizing the significance of understanding client needs and effective onboarding for a successful value proposition.

Reflecting on client boundaries (00:43:11)

Recognizing the need to assess and address potential client relationship boundaries and discomfort in addressing issues.

Concluding remarks (00:44:07)

Expressing gratitude and appreciation for the insightful conversation.

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“These aren't just numbers; numbers represent things that people care about, and when you start thinking about it that way, that's when you get clients who stay with you for life.” –Jeff Bartsch

The finer details of this episode:

Importance of storytelling and communication skills in the accounting industry
Strategic use of storytelling, empathy, and understanding deeper motivations of clients in the context of financial numbers and business strategy
The role of communication skills in human connection, client retention, team management, and business growth
The core outcome of storytelling as human connection and building trust

Episode resources:

Summit Virtual CFO by Anders website: https://www.summitcpa.net/
If you have questions or would like to be a guest on the show, email us at mcpasuccessshow@anderscpa.com
Check out the Virtual CFO Playbook Course: https://vcfoplaybook.summitcpa.net/
Jeff Bartsch is the founding communication strategist at Story Greenlight, which empowers accounting advisors to attract and keep their ideal advisory clients. With over 20 years of experience in the entertainment industry and client coaching, Jeff has helped shape content for clients including ABC, NBC, Disney, Apple, Netflix, and many others. Jeff has been recognized as a Top 30 thought leader in the accounting advisory world, and his commentary has been featured in publications including Accounting Today, the Associated Press, Time Magazine, and USA Today. He believes that the power of story is within reach of everyone, and that human connection is everything.Connect with Jeff at https://www.storygreenlight.com/moderncpa/

Timestamps:

Introduction (00:00:00)

Welcoming listeners to the podcast and discussing the upcoming conversation with Jeff Bartsch.

Demystifying Storytelling (00:00:22)

The importance of storytelling in becoming a better communicator and advisor in the accounting industry.

Jeff Bartsch's Background (00:02:00)

Jeff Bartsch introduces himself, highlighting his background in communication strategy and thought leadership coaching, including his experience in Hollywood.

The Power of Storytelling (00:03:49)

Jeff Bartsch shares a personal experience about the transformative power of storytelling and its impact on human connection.

Transition to Accounting Industry (00:05:51)

Jeff Bartsch explains his transition from Hollywood to working with the accounting industry, emphasizing the importance of human connection and trust-building in the accounting profession.

Strategic Communication and Storytelling (00:10:15)

Discussion on the strategic level of storytelling, including the definition of a story and its impact on communication with clients.

Virtual CFO Playbook Advertisement (00:13:08)

An advertisement for a virtual CFO playbook, offering essential tools for creating and delivering scalable CFO services.

Strategic Communication and Tough Questions (00:15:20)

Exploring the role of strategic communication in asking tough questions and guiding clients through challenging financial situations.

Empathy in Strategic Storytelling (00:16:55)

Jeff Bartsch discusses the importance of empathy in strategic storytelling and understanding the deeper motivations of clients beyond just the numbers.

The importance of strategic storytelling (00:20:28)

Strategic storytelling as a crucial element in client advisory services, influencing clients' perceptions and willingness to pay.

The experience of creating the movie (00:21:38)

Drawing parallels between mastering tools in Hollywood and applying that to client advisory services to create a powerful experience.

Adapting communication strategies in the digital age (00:23:19)

Discussing the evolving role of digital platforms and technologies in communication strategies, and the importance of making tools invisible in client interactions.

Maintaining the human element in the age of AI (00:26:27)

Addressing the challenge of preserving the human element in client advisory services amidst technological advancements like AI.

The power of asking great questions (00:27:48)

Emphasizing the significance of asking powerful questions to uncover clients' true desires and needs, guiding them to find their own answers.

Avoiding pitfalls in client communication (00:36:08)

Identifying pitfalls, such as hammering on different problems and telling tactical stories for the wrong reasons and emphasizing the role of the advisor as a guide rather than self-promotion.

Strategic Communication and Storytelling (00:40:18)

Discussion on the use of storytelling in strategic communication and how it can guide strategic conversations in the accounting industry.

De-escalating Client Situations (00:41:14)

The importance of starting with common ground to de-escalate client situations and guide them towards a different plan.

The Power of Storytelling and Neuroscience (00:42:23)

Exploration of the brain's response to storytelling and the impact on contentious conversations, emphasizing the need to start from a common ground.

Differentiating as an Advisor (00:43:27)

The significance of building the skill of making connections with clients as a key differentiator for a good advisor.

Jeff's Hollywood Experience (00:43:58)

Jeff shares his experience of meeting Britney Spears in Hollywood and reflects on the impact of her celebrity status.

Closing Remarks and Podcast Promotion (00:45:40)

The conclusion of the conversation and promotion of the podcast for more tips and strategies in the accounting industry.

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“Telling the story behind the figures is not about compliance; it's about triggering an action in the heads of business owners.” –Soufyan Hamid

The finer details of this episode:

Importance of storytelling in finance
Practical tips for effective financial communication
Transforming financial data into compelling narratives

Episode resources:

Summit Virtual CFO by Anders website: https://www.summitcpa.net/
If you have questions or would like to be a guest on the show, email us at mcpasuccessshow@anderscpa.com
Check out the Virtual CFO Playbook Course: https://vcfoplaybook.summitcpa.net/
https://soufbp.com/

Timestamps:

Introduction to Financial Storytelling (00:00:00)

Discussion on the importance of storytelling in finance and challenges faced by finance professionals.

Practical Tips for Effective Financial Communication (00:01:46)

Introducing the guest, Soufyan Hamid, and his background in financial storytelling and finance.

Challenges Faced in Financial Storytelling (00:02:55)

Soufyan shares his personal experience and challenges faced in financial storytelling.

Reverse the Narrative Concept (00:07:29)

Explaining the concept of "reverse the narrative" in financial storytelling and its impact on communicating financial information effectively.

Adopting Financial Storytelling (00:12:35)

Challenges in adopting financial storytelling, including the struggle to leave out details and focus on the main message.

Practicing Effective Presentation and Public Speaking (00:15:19)

Tips for effective presentation and public speaking in financial storytelling, including the importance of practice and engaging the audience.

Adapting Financial Communication to Small Group Discussions (00:21:14)

Discussion on adapting financial communication to small group discussions and the importance of anticipating questions and reactions.

Visual Aids in Financial Communication (00:23:31)

Discussion on the use of visual aids like dashboards and graphs in financial communication and their role in supporting the narrative.

Adapting Visuals for Effective Storytelling (00:24:37)

The importance of visually adapting graphs and charts to focus on specific points and guide the audience's attention in financial storytelling.

Preparation and Structuring for Effective Financial Communication (00:27:12)

The significance of preparation, structuring the message, and using visuals to guide the audience's attention in financial presentations.

The Four Steps of Financial Storytelling (00:33:07)

The four essential steps in financial storytelling: preparing a message, structuring the story, creating presentation slides, and practicing delivery.

Time Management for Preparation (00:38:17)

Discussion on the time required for preparation, practice, and the overall impact of effective storytelling in financial communication.

Course Content and Expected Results (00:40:41)

Details about the financial storytelling course, its duration, interactive elements, and the expected outcomes for participants.

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“The accounting profession historically has been like taking a trip with an atlas that’s 10 years out of date. However, today, what we can do with modern accounting and advisory services is much like the Waze app or Google Maps; you're getting instantaneous data that will tell you ‘Up ahead there's a roadblock and here's a workaround.’ This real-time info keeps you on track with your financial forecast. You can't make any business decisions on historical information; you must have current information and be able to look forward so that you can make good decisions and stay on track to reach your goals.” –John Scott

The finer details of this episode:

Importance of thought leadership in the accounting and legal professions
John's experience with a law firms’ growth and scaling based on data and metrics
Discussion and insights from John's book, “Judicial Dollars and Cents,” on understanding cash needs and working capital for businesses, including law firms
Unique elements of serving law firms and the complexities of partner compensation plans
The significance of data-driven decision-making in business management

Episode resources:

Summit Virtual CFO by Anders website: https://www.summitcpa.net/
If you have questions or would like to be a guest on the show, email us at mcpasuccessshow@anderscpa.com
Check out the Virtual CFO Playbook Course: https://vcfoplaybook.summitcpa.net/
Get the book: https://home.virtualcfo.cpa/johnscott

Timestamps:

The Introduction (00:00:00)

Introduction to the podcast and its mission.

Discussing Thought Leadership and Writing a Book (00:00:22)

Adam and Tom discuss the value of thought leadership and the process of writing a book.

John's Background and Experience (00:01:45)

John Scott introduces himself and discusses his experience working with law firms and the collaboration between Anders and Summit.

Scaling a Law Firm (00:02:58)

John shares a story of an entrepreneurial attorney scaling his business and the focus on data and metrics.

Inspiration for Writing the Book (00:04:06)

John explains the inspiration behind his book, “Judicial Dollars and Cents,” and the need to provide guidance for attorneys in managing their finances.

Unique Elements of Serving Law Firms (00:07:32)

Discussion on the unique financial aspects of law firms, including trust accounts and fee structures.

Forecasting and Real-Time Data (00:05:55)

John uses an analogy to emphasize the importance of real-time data in financial forecasting and decision making.

Key Metrics and Client Experience (00:12:13)

John discusses the importance of key metrics, staff retention, and client experience in law firms.

Availability of the Book (00:13:58)

John confirms the availability of the book.

Challenges of Writing a Book (00:18:49)

John shares the challenges and the process of organizing the content of the book.

Advice for Aspiring Authors (00:19:58)

John offers advice for those aspiring to write a book.

These are the timestamps covered in the podcast episode transcription segment, along with the titles for each topic.

Dictation and Writing Process (00:20:03)

John discusses using dictation software and his process for capturing thoughts and organizing them for writing.

Involving Others in the Writing Process (00:20:59)

John explains how he involved others to critique, develop thoughts, and help with grammar in the writing process.

Book Content and Editing (00:23:15)

The discussion covers the challenges of maintaining authenticity while editing and refining the book's content.

Importance of Cash Management (00:23:58)

The importance of understanding cash needs and reconciling accounts for businesses, including law firms, is emphasized.

Meeting Cadence and Financial Review (00:28:23)

The frequency and focus of financial meetings with law firms are discussed, highlighting the importance of reviewing financial statements and forecasts.

Compensation Models in Law Firms (00:31:54)

John shares insights on partner compensation plans and the importance of aligning individual and organizational goals in law firms.

Suitability of Services for Law Firms (00:36:30)

The discussion focuses on the ideal size of law firms for external financial services and the benefits of specialized niche expertise.

Trusting Data and Decision Making (00:39:40)

Discussion on the importance of trusting data for making quick decisions and the need for proper implementation.

Thought Leadership and Book Promotion (00:40:26)

Exploration of the concept of thought leadership, book promotion, and the value of intentional forecasting for small businesses.

Excitement for Book Release (00:41:46)

John's excitement for the release of his book and the relevance of the content, with a humorous exchange about his age.

Accountants' Behavior at a Conference (00:42:12)

Anecdote about accountants' reluctance to accept a free football signed by Rudy, with humorous commentary on their behavior.

Promotion and Support for the Book (00:44:36)

Acknowledgment of the book's potential value and support for its promotion, expressing anticipation for its release.

View Details

“We did a lot of due diligence; we landed on Guadalajara, Mexico not only because of time zone, cultural assimilation, and a direct flight from the west coast but its citizens are highly educated, so there's a big pool of talented individuals working there.” – Martin Moll

The finer details of this episode:

Discussion of nearshoring and its benefits for accounting firms
Differences between nearshoring in Mexico and offshoring in India
Challenges and advantages of nearshoring, including nurturing and training nearshore team members
Experiences with offshore teams and challenges faced when working with teams in India
Importance of critical thinking and cultural differences in offshore work
Challenges of finding talent and benefits of outsourcing for smaller firms
Importance of building a strong bond with the offshore team and treating them as an extension of the firm

Episode resources:

Summit Virtual CFO by Anders website: https://www.summitcpa.net/
If you have questions or would like to be a guest on the show, email us at mcpasuccessshow@anderscpa.com
Check out the Virtual CFO Playbook Course: https://vcfoplaybook.summitcpa.net/
https://www.cadencia.io/

Timestamps:

Introduction (00:00:00)

Introduction to the podcast and its mission to provide insights on accounting and related topics.

Martin Moll's Career Story (00:00:54)

Martin Moll shares his career journey from being a lawyer to becoming the president of Cadencia, emphasizing his experience with CPA firms and offshore operations.

Choosing Guadalajara for Nearshoring (00:03:58)

Martin explains the decision-making process behind choosing Guadalajara, Mexico, as a nearshore location, considering factors such as education, economy, and safety.

Cultural Assimilation and Language Barrier (00:06:47)

Discussion on the importance of cultural assimilation and the differences in exposure to tech stacks between nearshore locations like Mexico and offshore locations like India.

Benefits of Nearshoring and Staff Integration (00:10:51)

Martin highlights the benefits of nearshoring, emphasizing the potential for highly motivated and well-educated professionals and the integration of nearshore team members with the onshore firm.

Advertisement for Virtual CFO Playbook (00:08:24)

An advertisement for the Virtual CFO Playbook, offering essential tools for creating and delivering scalable CFO services.

Comparative Analysis of Offshoring and Nearshoring (00:15:39)

Comparison of offshoring and nearshoring, focusing on the cost, effectiveness, and the approach to hiring and training team members in Mexico.

Career Development and Critical Thinking Training (00:17:28)

Discussion on the career development opportunities and critical thinking training provided to nearshore team members, highlighting the focus on long-term career growth and skills enhancement.

The learning curve (00:19:49)

Discussion about the learning curve when working with offshore teams and the challenges of cultural differences.

Outsourcing challenges (00:21:08)

Addressing the challenges faced by smaller firms in finding people and considering outsourcing as an alternative.

Community support (00:22:08)

The importance of community support and sharing best practices among firms, especially for smaller firms.

Establishing a bond (00:23:30)

The significance of establishing a strong bond with offshore teams, including visiting them and integrating them into the firm's culture.

Cost benefit for smaller firms (00:25:25)

Highlighting the cost benefit of offshore staffing for smaller firms compared to larger competitors.

Talent shortage and client-facing roles (00:26:20)

Discussion on the talent shortage and the transition of team members to client-facing roles.

Language fluency and communication skills (00:28:18)

Ensuring team members are fluent in English and developing communication skills for client interactions.

Security and trust (00:33:26)

Addressing security concerns and the importance of building trust with offshore team members.

Insurance and liability (00:36:23)

Clarifying the insurance coverage for dishonest acts and professional liability.

Onboarding and integration (00:37:28)

Discussion on best practices for onboarding and integrating offshore team members into the firm's culture.

Engaging with Cadencia (00:39:00)

Information on how to engage with Cadencia and the initial process for reaching out.

Martin Moll's Insights (00:39:14)

Martin discusses the importance of meeting the team and the impact on hiring decisions.

Closing Thoughts (00:39:39)

Wrap-up discussion and hope for audience understanding.

Near Shoring and Talent Competition (00:39:46)

Adam highlights the competition for talent and the growing trend of near shoring.

Mission-Driven Industry (00:40:08)

Martin and Adam express their passion for the accounting industry and small firms.

Valuable Discussion (00:40:26)

Appreciation and closing remarks from the hosts and guest.

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“At the end of the day, it's first impressions. If you get a flat tire those first couple of weeks, it’s just going to really resonate through the entire relationship. You're never going to be able to win back that trust." -Adam Hale

The finer details of this episode:

● Importance of onboarding for CPA firms

● Setting clear expectations and creating a process for onboarding

● Activities involved in the onboarding process (accounting discovery, advisory discovery)

● Role of project management and client success managers in onboarding

● Significance of ongoing evaluation and improvement of the onboarding process

● Impact of successful onboarding on long-term client relationships

Episode resources:

● Summit Virtual CFO by Anders website: https://www.summitcpa.net/

● If you have questions or would like to be a guest on the show, email us at mcpasuccessshow@anderscpa.com

● Check out the Virtual CFO Playbook Course: https://vcfoplaybook.summitcpa.net/

Timestamps:

The importance of onboarding (00:01:07)

Adam discusses the importance of onboarding and setting expectations for new clients, emphasizing the need for a structured process.

Discovery meetings and setting client expectations (00:02:21)

Tom explains the process of accounting and advisory discovery meetings, setting specific dates for deliverables, and aligning on priorities with the client.

Organizing work and project management (00:05:51)

Adam suggests organizing the team to focus on one area together, emphasizing the need for a solid process and project management for effective onboarding.

Client communication and feedback (00:08:04)

The importance of setting communication policies and feedback loops with clients during the onboarding process is discussed, ensuring clear expectations are established.

Role of a project manager and client success manager (00:11:02)

The role of a project manager in organizing the onboarding process and the importance of a client success manager for communication and issue resolution are highlighted.

Continual improvement of onboarding process (00:15:59)

The discussion emphasizes the continual evolution and improvement of the onboarding process to ensure a positive initial impression for clients.

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“The pipeline meeting delivers so much value; it's a strategic conversation around the best way to allocate resources.” – Adam Hale

The finer details of this episode:

Need for accurate data in pipeline management
Strategic implications of pipeline meetings
Challenges of waiting percentages in pipeline management
Methods for evaluating and forecasting pipeline opportunities
Tools and strategies for pipeline management
Advice for looking forward and utilizing pipeline management

Timestamps:

Pipeline Management (00:00:44)

Importance of understanding sales cycle, activities creating pipeline, and strategic implications of pipeline meetings.

Data Analysis and Forecasting (00:02:47)

Evaluating committed projects, analyzing potential opportunities, and using historical data for forecasting.

Operational and Financial Alignment (00:03:36)

Bringing finance, operations, and pipeline management together in meetings, and using pipeline data as guardrails for improvement.

Strategic Resource Planning (00:09:49)

Evaluating the impact of big contracts on pipeline size, considering the need for increased resources, and the role of finance in decision-making.

Shortening Sales Cycle (00:12:21)

Advising on ways to shorten the sales cycle, improving sales efficiency, and the relationship between sales cycle length and pipeline size.

Challenges of Waiting Percentages (00:14:59)

Disadvantages of waiting percentages in pipeline management and the preference for categorizing deals into simple buckets.

Pipeline conversation for service-based clients (00:18:00)

Discussion on tools and strategies for service-based and project-based clients, including sales, pricing, and seasonality.

Strategic implications of pipeline management (00:19:20)

Importance of pipeline management for advising clients and looking forward, and the various ways it can help businesses.

Conclusion and call to action (00:19:36)

Promotion of the podcast's website for more tips and strategies for achieving success in the accounting industry.

Episode resources:

Summit Virtual CFO by Anders website: https://www.summitcpa.net/
If you have questions or would like to be a guest on the show, email us at mcpasuccessshow@anderscpa.com
Check out the Virtual CFO Playbook Course: https://vcfoplaybook.summitcpa.net/

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“ESG is not a measure of ‘good company versus bad company.’ ESG is a collection of roughly 200 different metrics around environmental, social, and government governance data. The way I look at ESG is, it's a measure of transparency; how much information do I have to make an informed decision about a company?” – Kai Gray

The finer details of this episode:

The changing landscape of ESG adoption and its extension to smaller companies
Regulations and disclosures required by federal agencies for government contracts
Opportunities for the accounting profession in the ESG field

Episode resources:

Summit Virtual CFO by Anders website: https://www.summitcpa.net/
If you have questions or would like to be a guest on the show, email us at mcpasuccessshow@anderscpa.com
Check out the Virtual CFO Playbook Course: https://vcfoplaybook.summitcpa.net/
https://www.esgmotive.com
https://www.linkedin.com/in/kaigray/

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The finer details of this episode:

Challenges of finding and retaining CPAs
Strategies for attracting and retaining talent
Hiring local talent vs. offshoring

Episode resources:

Summit Virtual CFO by Anders website: https://www.summitcpa.net/
If you have questions or would like to be a guest on the show, email us at mcpasuccessshow@anderscpa.com
Check out the Virtual CFO Playbook Course: https://vcfoplaybook.summitcpa.net/
https://jcgcpafirm.com/
https://www.linkedin.com/in/jcgcpa/

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The finer details of this episode:

Ideal clients for tax savings and retirement planning strategies, including cash balance plans
Flexibility and tailoring of retirement plans to client's financial situation
Maximizing contributions to reduce tax liabilities and increase retirement savings
Strategic planning and minimizing disruption in retirement savings strategies

Episode resources:

Summit Virtual CFO by Anders website: https://www.summitcpa.net/
If you have questions or would like to be a guest on the show, email us at mcpasuccessshow@anderscpa.com
Check out the Virtual CFO Playbook Course: https://vcfoplaybook.summitcpa.net/
https://www.linkedin.com/in/bbconsultants/
https://businessbenefitsconsultants.com/
https://census-form.com/tax-strategy-form/

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“I believe that business thrives when it's driven by human connection. And that human connection happens when you take ordinary messages and elevate them into something extraordinary. And you can do the exact same thing in business; you can take what some people might consider ordinary and connect humanity to it—driving business results in the process.” – Jeff Bartsch

The finer details of this episode:

Importance of storytelling in engaging clients in the accounting industry
Applications of storytelling in client interactions, team communication, and marketing
The importance of incorporating personal stories to engage clients

Episode resources:

Summit Virtual CFO by Anders website: https://www.summitcpa.net/
If you have questions or would like to be a guest on the show, email us at mcpasuccessshow@anderscpa.com
Check out the Virtual CFO Playbook Course: https://vcfoplaybook.summitcpa.net/
Story Greenlight is a coaching company that helps accounting executive and advisors become confident, memorable communicators and thought leaders. Connect with Jeff at https://www.storygreenlight.com/ or hello@storygreenlight.com.

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“Don't let the needs of the present get in the way from the needs of the future. Build that future, invest now, and it'll pay for itself in the long run.” – Joey Kinney

The finer details of this episode:

Importance of training and developing the advisory mindset
Challenges of merging existing processes during onboarding
Building relationships and personal connections with clients

Episode resources:

Summit Virtual CFO by Anders website: https://www.summitcpa.net/
If you have questions or would like to be a guest on the show, email us at mcpasuccessshow@anderscpa.com
Check out the Virtual CFO Playbook Course: https://vcfoplaybook.summitcpa.net/

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“I don't necessarily think that AI is going to replace accountants, but the accountants who use AI are going to really succeed.” – Kyle Geers

The finer details of this episode:

Time-saving opportunities for AI in accounting, particularly in data entry and bookkeeping
Technical work and incorporation of AI in complex areas
Importance of maintaining a review process when using AI, especially for accuracy and confidentiality

Episode resources:

Summit Virtual CFO by Anders website: https://www.summitcpa.net/
If you have questions or would like to be a guest on the show, email us at mcpasuccessshow@anderscpa.com
Check out the Virtual CFO Playbook Course: https://vcfoplaybook.summitcpa.net/
https://www.zeroed-inconsulting.com/
https://www.linkedin.com/in/kylegeers/

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“A lot of people wonder if they can afford an executive assistant. So, let’s say that you have an executive assistant whom you delegate ten hours of work to every week. How would you spend those ten hours? What high-level work could you get done? I think we're all willing to work a hard day. But then, we want to go home satisfied and fulfilled. It’s about quality of life.” - Gina Cotner

The finer details of this episode:

Discussion of “delegate and elevate” and the types of tasks that can be delegated
Differences between executive assistants and virtual assistants
Importance of communication expectations and finding the right communication channels
Pricing models and considerations when choosing an executive assistant service

Episode resources:

Summit Virtual CFO by Anders website: https://www.summitcpa.net/
If you have questions or would like to be a guest on the show, email us at mcpasuccessshow@anderscpa.com
Check out the Virtual CFO Playbook Course: https://vcfoplaybook.summitcpa.net/
https://athenaexecutiveservices.com/
https://www.linkedin.com/in/athenaea/

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“A complaint is nothing more than a request in disguise. If we approach it from a place of curiosity and hear what they have to say, that's where the conflict resolution comes in; that's where the trust comes.” – Carol Bowser

The finer details of this episode:

Challenges of establishing trust and rapport without in-person interactions
Shifting from blaming to a curiosity mindset
Asking questions to understand changes in behavior
Exploring underlying requests in complaints

Episode resources:

Summit Virtual CFO by Anders website: https://www.summitcpa.net/
If you have questions or would like to be a guest on the show, email us at mcpasuccessshow@anderscpa.com
Check out the Virtual CFO Playbook Course: https://vcfoplaybook.summitcpa.net/
https://conflictmanagementstrategies.com/
https://www.linkedin.com/in/carol-bowser/

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“The systems of your business are already there. The work is already happening. We help you get better at the work by standardizing and optimizing it. We're going to revolutionize little pieces of your business one at a time, and that’s what make the difference.” – Josh Fonger

The finer details of this episode:

Focus on the problem of being too busy and not having systems in place to work on the business
Importance of putting the principles into practice and working with diverse clients
Goal of helping businesses become more productive and effective through systematic strategies
Importance of having a systems mindset, clear vision, and documented procedures

Episode resources:

Summit Virtual CFO by Anders website – https://www.summitcpa.net/
If you have questions or would like to be a guest on the show, email us at mcpasuccessshow@anderscpa.com
Check out the Virtual CFO Playbook Course: https://vcfoplaybook.summitcpa.net/
https://wtsenterprises.com/
https://www.linkedin.com/in/joshfonger/

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“There are a lot of emotions tied to money. If you don't have a good forecast or good roadmap of what to expect from the business journey you're about to go on, your emotions are going to be all over the place.” -Terrell Turner

The finer details of this episode:

Importance of effective communication and understanding financial metrics for non-finance professionals
Bridging the gap between accounting and non-finance professionals in law firms
Importance of cash-flow forecasting for law firms
Evolution of forecasting tools and the importance of real-time updates
Leveraging outside resources and networking for fresh ideas

Episode resources:

Summit Virtual CFO by Anders website: https://www.summitcpa.net/
If you have questions or would like to be a guest on the show, email us at mcpasuccessshow@anderscpa.com
Check out the Virtual CFO Playbook Course: https://vcfoplaybook.summitcpa.net/
www.TLTurnerGroup.com
https://www.linkedin.com/in/terrellturner/

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The finer details of this episode:

Obstacles faced by cannabis businesses, such as banking and expense reporting
Overview of the cannabis industry and its various sectors
Importance of forecasting for cannabis businesses
Metrics valuable for retailers in the cannabis space

Episode resources:

Summit Virtual CFO by Anders website: https://www.summitcpa.net/
If you have questions or would like to be a guest on the show, email us at mcpasuccessshow@anderscpa.com
Check out the Virtual CFO Playbook Course: https://vcfoplaybook.summitcpa.net/

Virtual CFO services for the cannabis industry:

https://anderscpa.com/virtual-cfo-cannabis/

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“I started working with CPA firms and law firms and realized that there's a huge disconnect out there, and the same thing is happening with family offices. As a result, we figured out how to become that connection point and how to bridge the gap between the best firms in the country and then the best tax attorneys, the best specialists, and the best resources out there.” - Alex Sonkin

The finer details of this episode:

Services provided by Virtual Family Office, including tax elimination and cost-reduction strategies
Introduction to the Virtual Family Office model and its benefits for accessing global resources
Discussion on the challenges of navigating the tax code and the disconnect between top CPA firms and tax strategies
How CPAs with specialized tax knowledge differentiate themselves from other players in the financial service industry

Episode resources:

Summit Virtual CFO by Anders website – https://www.summitcpa.net/
If you have questions or would like to be a guest on the show, email us at mcpasuccessshow@anderscpa.com
Check out the Virtual CFO Playbook Course: https://vcfoplaybook.summitcpa.net/
https://vfohub.com/
https://www.linkedin.com/in/alexsonkin/

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“One of the pros of niching is that it facilitates being able to dial in your process and create more consistent results for your clients. And when your results for your clients are more consistent, it becomes much easier to advocate, to articulate, the value that you're creating, and you get more confident in your ability to deliver those results because you've systematized it and you've seen it again and again.” Geraldine Carter

The finer details of this episode:

Advice on navigating the difficult conversation of firing clients and the potential benefits of focusing on a niche market
Creating packages or tiers of services to provide options and avoid one-size-fits-all pricing
The importance of finding a niche market and understanding pain points to effectively communicate value and serve clients

Episode resources:

Summit Virtual CFO by Anders website – https://www.summitcpa.net/
If you have questions or would like to be a guest on the show, email us at mcpasuccessshow@anderscpa.com
Check out the Virtual CFO Playbook Course: https://vcfoplaybook.summitcpa.net/
https://geraldinecarter.com/
- Download Geraldine’s Master Value Creation Checklist for free! https://geraldinecarter.com/value
https://www.linkedin.com/in/geraldine-carter/

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“That five-minute explanation of your ingenious tax strategy that you gave your client was the combination of your experience–school, studying, training, conferences; all of these things culminate into that five-minute answer, so give yourself credit where it's due. You're a professional and deserve that value.” - Roger Knecht

The finer details of this episode:

The three core services in accounting firms: accounting and bookkeeping, tax planning and preparation, and CFO and advisory
Empowering accounting professionals to recognize their worth and value
Permission and clarity in transitioning to an advisory role

Episode resources:

Summit Virtual CFO by Anders website – https://www.summitcpa.net/
If you have questions or would like to be a guest on the show, email us at mcpasuccessshow@anderscpa.com
Check out the Virtual CFO Playbook Course: https://vcfoplaybook.summitcpa.net/
https://universalaccountingschool.com/
Roger Knecht | LinkedIn

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“Selling is actually something you do with people. It's a collaboration. Your objective of sales is not to try to convince people to buy from you; that's where you get into that place that feels uncomfortable and manipulative.” - Nikki Rausch

The finer details of this episode:

Utilizing your network to make connections
Creating curiosity in sales calls
Improving communication with sales techniques

Episode resources:

Summit Virtual CFO by Anders website – summitcpa.net
If you have questions or would like to be a guest on the show, email us at mcpasuccessshow@anderscpa.com
Sales Training and Mentoring Specialists | Professional Sales Trainer (yoursalesmaven.com)

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“You have to care about your clients and how you can help them. Then, you have to have the confidence to communicate to the client–not by bragging on yourself but just by believing in yourself.” - Mike Meilinger

The finer details of this episode:

Client Retention and referrals
The Importance of mindset
Following a Sales process

Episode resources:

Summit Virtual CFO by Anders website – summitcpa.net
If you have questions or would like to be a guest on the show, email us at mcpasuccessshow@anderscpa.com
CPA Firm Greenville SC | Accounting Tax Services (meilinger.us)

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“The cannabis industry is really pushing forward to help people have their own freedom to choose their path to well-being through non-conventional medicine. I decided I really wanted to be a part of that.” - Guillermo Rodriguez

The finer details of this episode:

Importance of having a strong why in pursuing a particular industry
The unique requirement in the industry to capture customer information
Trends and hurdles in the cannabis industry

Episode resources:

Summit Virtual CFO by Anders website – summitcpa.net
If you have questions or would like to be a guest on the show, email us at mcpasuccessshow@anderscpa.com
Virtual CFO Services for Cannabis - Anders CPA

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“Good businesses have customers. Great businesses have fans. Incredible businesses have audiences." - Ron Baker

The finer details of this episode:

Using metrics to continuously improve service delivery and set up key predictive indicators to test hypotheses
Setting boundaries with clients and educating them on what is reasonable in terms of communication and response time
Importance of delivering results as a professional, rather than just charging for time or tasks

Episode resources:

Summit Virtual CFO by Anders website – summitcpa.net
If you have questions or would like to be a guest on the show, email us at mcpasuccessshow@anderscpa.com
VeraSage Institute

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“We need to move away from pricing services and we need to start pricing what's really important, which is the relationship and transformations." - Ron Baker

The finer details of this episode:

Time sheets vs after-action reviews
Guiding transformations and monetizing relationships rather than charging for scope changes
Understanding a subscription-based model and how it differs from traditional-pricing models

Episode resources:

Summit CPA website – summitcpa.net
If you have questions or would like to be a guest on the show, email us at mcpasuccessshow@anderscpa.com
VeraSage Institute

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“Without the foundation of a good onboarding process, it's going to be very hard to have each client make sure that they're hitting all those deliverables because every client is a little bit different.” - Joey Kinney

The finer details of this episode:

Identifying client pain points during onboarding
The value of an onboarding specialist in standardizing processes
Setting expectations for onboarding

Episode resources:

Summit CPA website – summitcpa.net
If you have questions or would like to be a guest on the show, email us at mcpasuccessshow@anderscpa.com

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We partner with CFO-services firms and CPA firms that want to focus on the advisory angle. We don't necessarily want to provide advisory services, but we want to give our partners a strong foundation of bookkeeping and accounting. We're focused on using automation to improve the accounting system, and that helps our partners, the CFO-services firms and the outsource CPAs, that are really the advisors to their clients. But you have to have the bookkeeping and the accounting there in order to provide the advisory piece. We want to be the wind beneath their wings.” - Jesse Rubenfeld

The finer details of this episode:

Accounting workflows: automation assisted vs. automation
Outsourcing accounting tasks to increase efficiency
Software tools that help with automation

Episode resources:

Summit CPA website – summitcpa.net
If you have questions or would like to be a guest on the show, email us at mcpasuccessshow@anderscpa.com
FinOptimal | Homepage

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“When moving to offering virtual CFO services, there was a mindset shift that really helped us recognize our own value. Now we're at the place where we have a definition, structure, and the ability to align ourselves with potential clients and their needs.” - Katina Peters

The finer details of this episode:

Conveying value and building trust in sales conversations
Exploring niche markets
Defining and improving processes when adding virtual CFO services to your firm

Episode resources:

Summit CPA website – www.summitcpa.net
For questions or if you would like to be a guest on the show, email us at mcpasuccessshow@anderscpa.com.
Virtual CPA providing vCFO Services | PJS & Co. CPAs (pjscpas.com)

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“Most often, I think forecasting in the transportation and logistics industry is looking at the next thing. There's a lot of opportunity for business owners to look at forecasting the way Summit does, which is a wider range than just the next “one thing.” Having a forecast with some reality behind it is especially imperative in an industry like this that is highly capital intensive.” –Dan Rutherford

The finer details of this episode:

Accounting challenges in the transportation and logistics industry
Forecasting and planning for success
Key Performance Indicators (KPIs) in the industry

Episode resources:

Summit CPA website – www.summitcpa.net
Email us with questions – cpa@summitcpa.net

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“Typically, lawyers are focused on what is right in front of them. They think if they do good work that's right in front of them, then good things will happen. And, sometimes they do, but you can enhance that if you focus on what the value drivers are for the business.” -John C. Scott

The finer details of this episode:

The role of a CFO in growing law firms
Cash flow management and forecasting for law firms
Benefits of flat-fee billing vs. hourly billing

Episode resources:

Summit CPA website – www.summitcpa.net
Email us with questions – cpa@summitcpa.net
John Scott, CPA | Tax Partner | Anders CPAs + Advisors

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Episode Notes:

“Any business, whether it's startup, tech, any business across the board, should really have a strategy of diversification of the funds that they don't particularly need on a 90-day basis to a six-month basis. If they've got that cash flow, let's start to diversify the rest of those funds.” –Paul Rhea

The finer details of this episode:

Risk vs. Reward: Diversifying funds for optimal returns
Exploring strategies for diversifying excess cash
Bank protection strategies for business owners
Bank security and diversification strategies

Episode resources:

Summit CPA website – summitcpa.net
Email us with questions – cpa@summitcpa.net

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“I've talked to a lot of firms who say that they can't take on new business between February and April. I think that's a mistake because that's when business owners are feeling the most pain around their financials, so that's when they most need help and want to talk to someone. But they'll often just turn off the marketing during those months. So, that's the best time to be connecting with potential clients because that's when they're feeling the need most acutely.” – Matthew Banker

The finer details of this episode:

The importance of understanding your customers and what they need
Creating a clear and consistent message that resonates with your customers
Viewing marketing as an investment and working with a knowledgeable marketing partner

Episode resources:

Summit CPA website – www.summitcpa.net
Email us with questions – cpa@summitcpa.net
Marketing for Accounting Firms - Benchmark Growth Marketing

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“Your mission should be bigger than you can do in your lifetime, but you should never lose sight of it as your North Star. Any decision that we make or any of the things that we’re doing, we ask the question, ‘Is this going to further the joy?’ The joy is interacting with your clients and really feeling like you're making a difference. I want to bring joy to both sides—accountants and clients. How can we make it more positive for both? We do so by finding solutions for our clients’ pain points.” – Kristen Keats

The finer details of this episode:

Nearshore vs. offshore outsourcing
Solving pain points for clients
Solving staffing issues with Cadencia
Helping accountants start their own firm through a franchising option

Episode resources:

Summit CPA website – www.summitcpa.net
Email us with questions – cpa@summitcpa.net
Cadencia
Breakaway Bookkeeping & Advising (breakawayba.com)
Sherwood Tax & Accounting

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“If an organization views human resources as the “HR police” that only values and enforces compliance, it's a disservice not only to HR as a discipline, but to each employee's experience of what work ought to be like.” – John Baldino

The finer details of this episode:

Career mapping vs. one career map
Human resources as a service, not a department
Boomerang employees and adding skillsets for opportunities

Episode resources:

Summit CPA website – www.summitcpa.net
Email us with questions – cpa@summitcpa.net
Human Resources Outsourced, and more. - Humareso

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“Ideally, we like to work with clients three to five years before they sell. A lot of times people come to me, and they say, ‘How much is my practice worth?’ I give them my understanding of that value. And if they don't like that value, then they've got time to work on that because sometimes owners need to get their practice in a better position so they could sell for a better price.”

Brandon Poe

The finer details of this episode:

Pruning for growth
Getting your firm ready to sell
Understanding the benefits of a broker when planning your exit

Episode resources:

Summit CPA website – www.summitcpa.net
Email us with questions – cpa@summitcpa.net
Accounting Practice Sales – Buy or Sell | Poe Group Advisors

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“GTD® doesn't deliver a solution; it delivers hope. How much people want to take advantage of that is up to them. GTD® and implementing these best practices—capture, clarify, organized, reflect, and engage—of how you get stuff under control in your life and work, they don't give you more time. They give you more room. What you do with that room is unique to you.” – David Allen

The finer details of this episode:

• Meeting management and setting boundaries for back-to-back meetings

• The need for GTD® in a team environment—not just individually

• The importance of setting and understanding what your priorities are

Episode resources:

• Summit CPA website – summitcpa.net

• Email us with questions – vcfo@summitcpa.net

• Getting Things Done® – https://gettingthingsdone.com/

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“Divvy is a software company first. And then we found that we had to tie a card into it. It’s the web application; it's the mobile application; it's the Divvy Smart credit card. What's nice about this is that it's one integrated solution. You don't have to go find a card solution and then buy a software to lay over the top of it and vice versa. You don't need to find a software that you really like and then have to go find a card that might work into it.” – Zac Heniz

The finer details of this episode:

How Divvy empowers both business owners and employees to manage spending
Creating virtual and one-time-use cards to offer further security parameters
Spend and expense transactions with ease using Divvy

Episode resources:

Summit CPA website – www.summitcpa.net
Email us with questions – cpa@summitcpa.net
Divvy – https://getdivvy.com/

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Episode Notes

“The top three things that people can do to build client relationships would be take a posture of people over profit, to follow through and follow up, and to remember going into those relationships that, it's not about you. Take yourself out of the equation first and understand your client's goals.” – Hannah Hood

The finer details of this episode:

Understanding your personality and how to work with different personality types
Establishing relationships built on trust and transparency
How to implement Hannah’s three tips to improve and build client relationships

Episode resources:

Summit CPA website – www.summitcpa.net
Email us with questions – cpa@summitcpa.net

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“We've designed a pretty flexible tool. It’s turnkey when you need it to be, like determining cashflow. We've got some really cool stuff in the pipeline right now from a development perspective and KPIs.” -Christian Wielage

The finer details of this episode:

How using a software planning tool like PlanGuru helps advisors/CFOs make sound business decisions
Tools and resources offered by PlanGuru
Why today’s firms need PlanGuru to stay relevant and offer real-time solutions

Episode resources:

Summit CPA website – www.summitcpa.net
Email us with questions – cpa@summitcpa.net
PlanGuru | Business Budgeting Software, Business Planning Software

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Episode Notes

“It’s time to bring in an expert if you are leaving your role at a pre-IPO company. Also, when the IPO happens can a little tricky, especially if they have some of the more complex kinds of contracts, so you’re going to want to get some help on it.” – Aaron Rubin

The finer details of this episode:

Learn options to offer clients when it comes to pre-IPO tax issues as it relates to stock options
How to advise a client and seek specialized help as they navigate the IPO journey
Understand services that clients might need post IPO, such as wealth management

Episode resources:

Summit CPA website – www.summitcpa.net
Email us with questions – cpa@summitcpa.net
Aaron Rubin – wrpwealth.com

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“I care about our profession, and I know that we're always busy. Especially as we're doing advisory work, tax planning, and things that are more forward thinking, there's no stop. You have to make sure that you're managing yourself and helping others to avoid burnout. You have to be very proactive.” – Iralma Pozo

The finer details of this episode:

Self-awareness: Take an assessment to understand and analyze personal traits about yourself so that you can learn how to thrive in work environments
Self-care: Implements things into your daily routine that charge your battery
Communicating and setting boundaries: Let coworkers and clients know up front what they can expect from working with you

Episode resources:

Summit CPA website – www.summitcpa.net
Email us with questions – cpa@summitcpa.net

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The finer details of this episode:

Starting a conversation with clients about annual planning and the benefit of using it as a benchmark for the next calendar year
Setting a cadence and schedule for customizing a strategize plan for the client
What the annual planning process is and tools that can be implemented to create it
The importance of aligning your client's financial goals and their business goals

Episode resources:

Summit CPA website –www.summitcpa.net
Email us with questions – cpa@summitcpa.net

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“Big data is a thing right now. Everybody has tons of data, but it's not really useful information. I know for us and our clients and accountants everywhere, we've become storytellers. There's a lot of cool reports that we want to have for ourselves in order to understand and tell the story, but we've got to be able to push that information out and get it to the users. ”– Adam Hale

The finer details of this episode:

How analytic software can help you see data trends for your client's business
Being able to understand data storytelling as a tool for clients
How analytic tools can help generate useful reports, while also reducing human errors

Episode resources:

Summit CPA website –www.summitcpa.net
Email us with questions – cpa@summitcpa.net
Toucan Toco - Guided Analytics for Business Users

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Episode Notes

“Long before COVID, people were feeling frustrated, particularly younger people who were feeling like the market was leaving them behind. Then, along came COVID, which completely shook the entire job market. And it sent people home to sit on their couch and think about themselves and what they're doing. The pandemic shook the market and caused there to be some realization on the part of the employees that maybe they weren't getting everything out of this bargain.” – Chris Williams

The finer details of this episode:

How to navigate the current marketplace for employment opportunities
Being able to reflect on current employment circumstances and understand alternative options
How to stop compromising personal situations for the sake of a career
Being able to cultivate a good leadership team

Episode resources:

Summit CPA website –www.summitcpa.net
Email us with questions – cpa@summitcpa.net
Chris Williams –clwill.com

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In this episode, Jamie Nau, our host and Summit CPA's Director of Virtual CFO, sits down with Adam Hale, Partner at Anders CPAs + Advisors, and Jake Grimm, Summit CPA's Director of Technology, to discuss financial tools for remote and distributed companies. If you are a business owner of a fully distributed company, this episode is for you! Jamie, Adam, and Jake discuss must-have tools to implement in your remote business to help it run efficiently and grow it to the next level.

The finer details of this episode :

How to choose the best technology for your remote business
How to leverage technology in a remote world
Being a business owner or member of leadership of a remote business
Being a fully distributed, start-up company and implementing the right tools to run your business

Episode resources

Summit CPA website - www.summitcpa.net
Email us with questions - cpa@summitcpa.net

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"I'm just authentic me. When I meet people, I don't talk about me and what I can do for you and what I do for a living. Ask questions about other people, like: Why are you here? What made you wanna do this business? What can you offer? Who can I connect you to?

It's adding value to other people. And one thing I've figured out is people notice people who notice them. Simple little things like giving someone else a shout out or sharing their post or saying, "Hey, I saw you the other day. That was great." It's bringing that sense of community into everything you do." - Monica Parkin

The finer details of this episode :

How to choose something that you're passionate about
How to contribute to your community in order for your business to thrive
Being a good listener and asking intentional questions
Being authentic when building your brand and networking

Episode resources

Summit CPA website - www.summitcpa.net
Email us with questions - vcfo@summitcpa.net
Monica Parkin - Courtenay Mortgage Specialist | Monica Parkin, Mortgage Specialist

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"I think a lot of it has to be started through exploration because if we don't start with a mindset around exploration and learning...If we're just changing for the sake of changing, then we really, we're not coming from an informed perspective." - Douglas Ferguson

The finer details of this episode :

The mindset and behavior that is essential to change management in an organization
What do businesses need to do? What strategies should they put in place?
How important is having a culture of curiosity?
How should change management need to change as the company gets larger?

Episode resources

Summit CPA website - www.summitcpa.net
Email us with questions - vcfo@summitcpa.net
Voltage Control website - voltagecontrol.com

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"I think CPE is also one of those things that's kind of stagnated in our profession. Going to webinars, going to in-person seminars... it's just old-fashioned, it's inconvenient. People do things on their phones now. So why can't we learn on our phones on demand, wherever we are, whenever we want." - Blake Oliver

The finer details of this episode :

What is the future of the accounting profession?
What are the traditional ways of doing things in the industry that hinder growth?
What is Earmark CPE?
How can it help professionals complete their CPE?

Episode resources

Summit CPA website - www.summitcpa.net
Email us with questions - cpa@summitcpa.net
Earmark website -https://earmarkcpe.com/
Contact Blake - blake@earmarkcpe.com

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"I think the heart of it is (that) there's a lot of value in automation so that you can provide value-added and not have to deal with typing in sales entries everyday or the minutiae that comes with this" - Bo Davis

The finer details of this episode :

What does MarginEdge do?
How does a robust back-office technology support the restaurant's success?
How do insights and report tools help the production and decision-makers?

Episode resources

Summit CPA website - www.summitcpa.net
Email us with questions - cpa@summitcpa.net
MarginEdge website - www.marginedge.com/

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"I want to build a certain culture. I wanna make sure that everyone is on board with our values from the very beginning. So even in the interview process, we talk about our values and make sure that the questions we're asking will enable people to answer based on their values. And then, just how they interact with us throughout the interview process can say a lot too" - Serena Shoup

The finer details of this episode :

Who is Serena Shoup? What does the Ambitious Bookkeeper do?
What hiring practices help them hire based on culture fit?
How did culture play a role in the growth of her company?

Episode resources

Summit CPA website - www.summitcpa.net
Email us with questions - cpa@summitcpa.net
Reach out to Serena Shoup - www.ambitiousbookkeeper.com/

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"I always go in with a little skepticism just because there's a lot of tools out there and they can be great, or they can flop and not really do much. But, I did see some value in the Autoreview demo that they gave us. It definitely had features that you can't get just out of QuickBooks and it is in an easy-to-read self-organizing format" - Alyssa Colf

The finer details of this episode :

What is Autoreview? What does it do? Who is it for?
Features of Autoreview that has helped our teams
Benefits and best practices while using the tool

Episode resources

Summit CPA website - www.summitcpa.net
Email us with questions - cpa@summitcpa.net

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"The quality of the people (and), the quality of the technology has just made my ability to step in and be successful a whole lot easier." - Greg Wallis

The finer details of this episode :

What is it like shifting to a virtual CFO role? How did Greg's experience help him adjust?
What do you need to consider and think about before going virtual or moving to a 100% remote firm?
Tips for professionals interested to join Summit CPA, A Division of Anders CPAs + Advisors, or offer their own Virtual CFO services

Episode resources

Summit CPA website - www.summitcpa.net
Email us with questions - cpa@summitcpa.net

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"It's very important to look at all these tax-saving opportunities." - Randy Crabtree

The finer details of this episode :

What are the different credits and incentives available to business owners?
What should accountants take into consideration when giving their clients advice?
What should you know about the R&D and Employee Retention Credit?

Episode resources

Summit CPA website - www.summitcpa.net
Email us with questions - cpa@summitcpa.net
Email Randy Crabtree - Randy.Crabtree@tri-merit.com

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"From my perspective, when I look at what businesses need today, I think it's absolutely positioned for massive growth." - Dave Hartley

The finer details of this episode :

What does the future look like for Summit after the merger with Anders?
What does the firm of the future look like?
What value will the merger bring to our clients?

Episode resources

Summit CPA website - www.summitcpa.net
Email us with questions - cpa@summitcpa.net

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"When you showcase your best, you attract the best." - Donna Serdula.

The finer details of this episode :

Why is LinkedIn an essential tool to grow your network?
Practical tips build your brand on LinkedIn.
Understanding your purpose on LinkedIn and using your purpose to achieve success.

Episode resources

Summit CPA website - www.summitcpa.net
Email us with questions at cpa@summitcpa.net
Vision Board Media - https://visionboardmedia.com/

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" Just because things are going well doesn't mean they can't be better. So that's what we try to live by. " - Robert Minkler Jr.

The finer details of this episode :

The merger story of Summit CPA and Anders
How the merger benefits both Summit CPA and Anders
What stakeholders should expect with the merger

Episode resources

Summit CPA website - www.summitcpa.net
Email us with questions - cpa@summitcpa.net
Summit CPA Group to Merge with Anders CPA + Advisors

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"We have to realize that we speak this technical language riddled with acronyms, that when our audience isn't like us, we need to find a way to translate it into plain English. So there's understanding." - Peter Margaritis

The finer details of this episode :

How to connect and become relatable when discussing technical terms with clients
Tips and tricks to remember when communicating with clients from different industries
Importance of communicating clearly to achieve a common goal

Episode resources

Summit CPA website - www.summitcpa.net
Email us with questions - cpa@summitcpa.net
The Accidental Accountant website - www.petermargaritis.com/

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"Honestly, the way we've structured our kickoff call week. 80% of the kickoff call, just letting the CFO and the client kind of start to have those conversations, which is huge. We listen and we hear the things that are most important to them." - Lydia Rapp

The finer details of this episode :

What are we doing now that we haven't done before?
Why you should have a client onboarding process in place
What are the important things to consider when building an onboarding client?

Episode resources

Summit CPA website - www.summitcpa.net
Email us with questions - cpa@summitcpa.net

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"Do it. Don't hesitate. Just jump into it." - Larry D. West III

The finer details of this episode :

What is Clubhouse?
How Larry D. West III used this platform and created opportunities for his business
How to get started
How Clubhouse can help you add value as a thought leader for your audience

Episode resources

Summit CPA website - www.summitcpa.net
Email us with questions - cpa@summitcpa.net
Precision Business Strategies website - www.pb-strategies.com

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"As a CPA firm, we're big into numbers, we're big into data. And, we do look at this data to try to determine what our future topics are going to be and how to make sure that our podcasts are hitting the audience." - Jamie Nau

The finer details of this episode :

What are the top performing podcasts episodes on the Modern CPA Success Show in 2021?
What three topics drive more podcast downloads?
Why did these topics perform well?

Top 10 Episodes:

The Future of Virtual CFO Services with Rick Telberg of CPA Trendlines
The Playbook That Inspired the Growth of Oberlander & Co.
Developing Systems to Scale Your Business with David Jenyns (Part 1)
Adapting in the Age of Automation with David Bergstein
Deep Dive with Virtual CFO Client Tiffany Farriss of Palantir
Finding Your Niche & Becoming a Thought Leader
Tax Lessons Learned with Dave Danic
Exploring New Marketing Channels to Reach More Leads
Exploring Video Marketing Strategies to Grow Your Business
How Octavia Conner Made Her Clients Say Yes to Profits

Episode resources

Summit CPA website - www.summitcpa.net
Email us with questions - vcfo@summitcpa.net

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"The end of curiosity is that understanding and it's engagement. And if we get to that and then we're going to increase our quality of interactions with our internal stakeholders and with our teammates, we're going to increase the quality of the service we provide to our clients because we are fully engaged. We are better understanding who, who they are and what they want." - Josh Jeans

The finer details of this episode :

What having curiosity means to Summit CPA Group?
In the hiring process, what are Summit CPA's best practices that help qualify candidates who imbibes the core value curiosity?
How is curiosity a learned skill and how do we hone it?
How does curiosity contribute to developing a team of constant learners?

Episode resources

Summit CPA website - www.summitcpa.net
Email us with questions - cpa@summitcpa.net

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"Back in November I was able to unveil practice executive, which is really something I created almost entirely from scratch based on the Summit Model and what I've been able to experience from you guys over the last few months." - Andrew Tucker

The finer details of this episode :

Practice Executive LLC and how Andrew Tucker started his practice
How he applied what he learned from the Virtual CFO Playbook Course to grow his clients from scratch
Becoming a thought-leader in the dental industry

Episode resources

Summit CPA website - www.summitcpa.net
Email us with questions - cpa@summitcpa.net

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"Just do it. It's one of those things that if you think about it and you try and make it perfect it never will be. No one working in the office will ever be perfect. So (it's always) come out of your comfort zone and step into the risky area and go remote. You just have to do it." - Jody Grunden

The finer details of this episode :

What to consider and what to prepare for before going remote
How to start and how to maintain a remote workplace
What helped Summit CPA Group? (Tools, processes, people management)
People management strategies Summit CPA Group implemented - what works and what doesn't

Episode resources

Summit CPA website - www.summitcpa.net
Email us with questions - cpa@summitcpa.net

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"Today, it's about rethinking your business model to adjust to new societal needs because society has evolved, science has evolved, what makes sense and what doesn't make sense in society has evolved and will further evolve." - Fabiaan van Vrekhem

The finer details of this episode :

Definition of Organization Reinvention
What approach you need to take when reinventing your organization?
What questions to ask and consider before reinventing your organization?
The difference between a roadblock and a wrong turn
How organization reinvention impacts people management

Episode resources

Summit CPA website - www.summitcpa.net
Email us with questions - cpa@summitcpa.net
Email Fabiaan - fabiaan.van.vrekhem@accordgroup.be
Purchase Fabiaan's book on Amazon - Disruption@Work

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"This is another really great thing about using an online platform like this - you could have a support person who has never seen your model be able to figure out what's going on in like five or 10 minutes versus like taking all afternoon to figure it out in an Excel." - Martin Zych

The finer details of this episode :

What is Jirav? How does Jirav help Summit CPA serve our clients better?
Why did Summit CPA decide to move to Jirav?
How Jirav helps Summit CPA as a cloud-based forecasting solution
What are Jirav's features that will make you consider shifting to a cloud-based forecasting solution?

Episode resources

Summit CPA website - www.summitcpa.net
Email us with questions - cpa@summitcpa.net
Jirav website -www.jirav.com

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"You have got to understand everyone on your team's unique ability and best and highest contribution and put that to work. Create a place where they can make a meaningful contribution given their motivations and their unique abilities." - Zach Montroy

The finer details of this episode :

What to consider if you want to keep your people
Understanding the needs and motivations of people
Compensation and benefits - how important benefits come into play
How personalization of benefits has helped Summit CPA

Episode resources

Summit CPA website - www.summitcpa.net
Email us with questions - cpa@summitcpa.net

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"We're seeing it all across different disciplines, all different types of employment and what we're finding is that people are quitting - and that really started from probably I'd say January and still continuing on through today - where they're quitting for all kinds of reasons" - Jody Grunden

The finer details of this episode

What is "The Great Resignation"?
What are the reasons behind this phenomenon?
What companies can do to take the employee retention to the next level?
Finding candidates, the evaluation process and preventing no-shows.

Episode resources

Summit CPA website - www.summitcpa.net
Email us with questions - cpa@summitcpa.net

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"In order to get at value for your clients, it's helpful to think of the three questions that you can. Why now, why me and why this way. " - Geraldine Carter

The finer details of this episode

What is Value-Based Pricing?
Why digital agencies should consider Value-Based Pricing
What questions to ask when pricing your services according to value

Episode resources

Summit CPA website - www.summitcpa.net
Email us with questions - cpa@summitcpa.net
She Thinks Big website - www.shethinksbigcoaching.com

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"When I look at the accounting profession, same thing, super well-educated well-trained putting in lots of years licensed, and all that. Do they suffer sometimes from the same kind of, let's just say blinders, because they're so well-trained and thinking that the solution has to be complicated and nobody else could possibly come up with it that they walked right past easy solutions." - Geraldine Carter

The finer details of this episode

What are the 3 main challenges that CPAs and CPA firms usually experience?
The kale story and its analogy to the accounting profession
Finding simple solutions to pivot your current services and address the challenges that stunt your growth

Episode resources

Summit CPA website - www.summitcpa.net
Email us with questions - cpa@summitcpa.net
She Thinks Big website - www.shethinksbigcoaching.com
Smart Strategy for CPAs - www.smartstrategyforcpas.com

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“Make it easy for them to say yes and dont make it anything about making money. Make it about making connections and launching the ship in a direction with the right people where everybody understands that this is about getting better together.” - Carl Smith

The finer details of this episode

What does Bureau of Digital do? How did they start this community?
How to manage members of the community that are competitors or in the same market?
What you need to do/prepare to start your own community
How to build a community of highly engaged professionals and retaining the members

Episode resources

Summit CPA website - www.summitcpa.net
Email us with questions - cpa@summitcpa.net
Bureau of Digital website - www.bureauofdigital.com

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“The thing is, you kind of have to find your groove there. It doesn't happen just overnight.” - Stephen Pope

The finer details of this episode

Which marketing channel should you consider for your firm?
Understanding your audience and making sure you have a clear message
The concept of virality and creating content that resonates
All about TikTok and the impact of social media and video marketing

Episode resources

Summit CPA website - www.summitcpa.net
Email us with questions - cpa@summitcpa.net
SGPLabs - www.sgplabs.com/

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“In terms of passionate, absolutely essential as there's a rule in the practice of thought leadership, that your audience will never be more interested in your topic than you. So you have to choose something that you're going to be excited to talk about for the next five or 10 years.” - - Bill Sherman

The finer details of this episode

What is thought leadership?
What questions should you ask yourself before you start?
Steps you need to take before you launch your brand's thought leadership
Thought leadership and its correlation to passion, relevance and responsibility

Episode resources

Summit CPA website - www.summitcpa.net
Email us with questions - cpa@summitcpa.net
Thought Leadership Leverage website - https://thoughtleadershipleverage.com/

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"I think being in my role one of the things I've seen is the fact that we haven't had this conference for a full year. I think it definitely affects the morale" - Jamie Nau

The finer details of this episode

Difference between Director and CFO retreat and why it's important to have both
Purpose and benefits of team retreats
Process of organizing team retreats
Impact of team retreats to employee morale
Difference of team retreats for remote vs. non-remote companies

Episode resources

Summit CPA website - www.summitcpa.net
Email us with questions - cpa@summitcpa.net

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"I really think what Summit has created, and Jody and Adam have created together is something unique; and also is something that should be looked at by other companies and replicated with how they treat their employees and creating that connection in a very remote working environment" - Lillian Hocevar

The finer details of this episode

Postmortem discussion of the Director's Retreat
When to include family members in company retreats
Selecting the perfect location for retreats that include family members
Ultimate goal of company retreats
What are the 6 Working Geniuses? How did Summit use this information to help teams

Episode resources

Summit CPA website - www.summitcpa.net
Email us with questions - cpa@summitcpa.net

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"The House today introduced a bill to fully decriminalize Cannabis. So, we're moving quickly both state front and federally and we actually saw this with CBD and Hemp legalize completely in 2018. So, there's a decent chance Cannabis will go down this path as well.” - Andrew Hunzicker

The finer details of this episode

Who and what does Andrew Hunzicker of Dope CFO do?
Cannabis Industry as a niche
Opportunities available in the Cannabis Industry
Tips and reminders for CPAs and CPA firm owners who are interested to serve this niche

Episode resources

Summit CPA website - www.summitcpa.net
Email us with questions - cpa@summitcpa.net
Alliance Virtual Offices website - www.alliancevirtualoffices.com

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“Building a team that is eager to dive into some of these multi-state tax issues is one of our lessons”- Dave Danic

The finer details of this episode

How Summit CPA Group Tax Department is set up
Shifts that Summit CPA Group made internally the past two years under the Tax Department
What a does a Tax Manager do?
What changes did Summit CPA Group do when managing clients

Episode resources

Summit CPA website - www.summitcpa.net
Email us with questions - cpa@summitcpa.net
Email Dave Danic- ddanic@summitcpa.net

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“We were built to a certain kind of project, that they weren't looking from us anymore. We had to really reshape the firm and it was a really painful moment. So we really had to learn and step back.” - Tiffany Farriss

The finer details of this episode

Growth as an outcome of success not as a metric
The challenges that influenced the changes for Palantir
How long does it take to create a 360 shift within the organization
How a virtual CFO was able to help them through challenging times

Episode resources

Summit CPA website - www.summitcpa.net
Email us with questions - cpa@summitcpa.net
Palantir website - www.palantir.net

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“That's what systems do. They enable you to solve problems once, and then the business over can move over to the next problem which should be a higher level” - David Jenyns

The finer details of this episode

The need for a Business Systems Champion in your organization
How systems shape business cultures
The impact and change systems bring to a business
Getting your teams onboard with changes in business systems

Episode resources

Summit CPA website - www.summitcpa.net
Email us with questions - cpa@summitcpa.net
David's website - davidjenyns.com

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“All the business owners that I chat with, every single one of them, I don't think we'd ever had a discussion where we haven't come to the conclusion that business systems are important.” - David Jenyns

The finer details of this episode

Why business systems are important
How SYSTEMology is different from process improvement practices
What business owners should do to get started
Key practices to adopt for better business systems

Episode resources

Summit CPA website - www.summitcpa.net
Email us with questions - cpa@summitcpa.net
David's website - davidjenyns.com

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"In order to generate profit the correct way you need to have cash flow in your business...So one of the ways that we help our business owners is that we tell them 'The ultimate goal is for you to say yes to profits.'” - Octavia Conner

The finer details of this episode

Say Yes To Profit and Octavia's amazing backstory
How she defined what needed to be done to scale her business
What challenges she faced and how she overcame it
Tried and tested tips to build your own VCFO services

Episode resources

Summit CPA website - www.summitcpa.net
Email us with questions - cpa@summitcpa.net
Alliance Virtual Offices website - www.alliancevirtualoffices.com

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"The one word that every major employer, or every major business, or governmental entity is using right now is agility. They started using that in 2017, 2018, 2019, they started using the word but they weren't taking action and that's the big difference” - Frank Cottle

The finer details of this episode

Deep dive into the difference of the workforce through the years
What the new normal looks like for the workforce
Redefining the purpose of an office
New workforce models and options for businesses

Episode resources

Summit CPA website - www.summitcpa.net
Email us with questions - cpa@summitcpa.net
Alliance Virtual Offices website - www.alliancevirtualoffices.com

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"I feel like we're colleagues, so you know it's like a real firm and we work together and they help us a lot besides actually taking the course that has helped us a lot in setting the framework."- Jacob Oberlander

The finer details of this episode

How the VCFO Playbook Course influenced Oberlander & Co.
Highlighting the practices that Oberlander & Co. adopted
Importance of implementing a solid Onboarding process and Pipeline Meetings
The Impact of Switching to Value-Based Pricing

Episode resources

Summit CPA website - www.summitcpa.net
Email us with questions - cpa@summitcpa.net
Oberlander & Co. website - www.oberlanderandco.com/

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"In our industry, we're always looking at what can save time and what's not going to break down all the time” - Jody Grunden

The finer details of this episode

Understanding your company's needs to find the right solution for you
How to choose the best vendor for your company
Things to consider before saying "yes" to a vendor
How Summit CPA Group weeds out all proposals to find the best one

Episode resources

Summit CPA website - www.summitcpa.net
Email us with questions - cpa@summitcpa.net

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"I think the future of accounting is automation and advisory services." - David Bergstein

The finer details of this episode

Understanding the importance of automation and innovation
Process of choosing the best platforms to automate processes
Why moving to the cloud is the way forward for CPA firms
How to add value through advisory

Episode resources

Summit CPA website - www.summitcpa.net
Email us with questions - cpa@summitcpa.net
Bergstein CPA website - www.bergsteincpa.com/

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Quote

"You have an opportunity to digitally transform your clients' life." - Pete Potsos

The finer details of this episode

What is Bill.com?
How Bill.com helped Summit CPA revolutionize their processes
Features can help you and your clients
How you can improve your own practice using the Bill.com platform

Episode resources

Summit CPA website - www.summitcpa.net
Email us with questions - cpa@summitcpa.net
Bill.com website - www.bill.com

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Quote

“If you want to be a big business that continues to grow with some scale, then you need to learn how to use these.” - Stephen Pope

The finer details of this episode

How video helps you connect to your audience
Why it's important to incorporate a video marketing strategy into your social media and other marketing efforts in general
How to be comfortable in video
Tips on getting your very first video done

Episode resources

Summit CPA website - www.summitcpa.net
Email us with questions - cpa@summitcpa.net
Email Stephen - stephen@sgplabs.com

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Quote

“One of the partners there was sharing that their firm no longer has an overdraft thanks to using our payment plans” - Bruce Coombes

The finer details of this episode

What is QuickFee
What are the three payment solutions offered by QuickFee
Advantages of using QuickFee
How it helped firms collect payments faster
How QuickFee can help enhance your relationship with your client

Episode resources

Summit CPA website - www.summitcpa.net
Email us with questions - cpa@summitcpa.net
QuickFee - https://quickfee.com/

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Quote

“If we write about what people are talking about, then people are going to talk about what we write about.” - Rick Telberg

The finer details of this episode

How Rick curated his content for CPA Trendlines
Trends in the Virtual CFO space
What could potentially hold CPA firms back from going virtual
Why you should seriously consider offering VCFO work considering the current landscape
What type of firm is best for offering VCFO services
Benefits of hiring a project manager to do our client onboarding at Summit CPA

Episode resources

Summit CPA website - www.summitcpa.net
Email us with questions - cpa@summitcpa.net
Connect with Rick - cpatrendlines.com

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Quote

“Let’s build the plan and plug the engineers into the plan instead of the other way around.” - Casey Cobb

The finer details of this episode

How the beginning of this client relationship changed the way we pitched
Casey’s amazing backstory and how a virtual CFO was able to help him through challenging times
The 80/20 rule, Parkinson's Law, and how Casey implemented them into his business idea
How Casy found his blue ocean strategy

Episode resources

Summit CPA website - www.summitcpa.net
Email us with questions - cpa@summitcpa.net
Email Casey - casey@projectricochet.com

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Quote

“A lot of meetings are ruled by too many subjective opinions and egos, so it’s important to bring in actual objective measures of progress.” - Tom Barrett

The finer details of this episode

Where Summit CPA has been and where we are going with our meetings
What makes a good meeting
Why people hate meetings so much
How to prevent team members from being distracted during meetings
Healthy conflict and how that can be a good thing in meetings
Creating a meeting agenda and why that is absolutely necessary
The power in naming your meetings
The IDS structure and how you can use it to talk through issues
The role of meeting moderators and why you need one

Episode resources

Summit CPA website - www.summitcpa.net
Email us with questions - cpa@summitcpa.net

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Quote

“Taking this time and investment in your team will show dividends in the future.” - Zach

The finer details of this episode

How to choose the right venues, restaurants, and activities for the group
Tips for structuring the content of your company retreat
Balancing team-building and business development activities
Choosing the right location for your retreat
The importance of working with the right team to organize your retreat
Budgeting and forecasting to cover your retreat financially

Episode resources

Summit CPA website - www.summitcpa.net
Email us with questions - cpa@summitcpa.net
Contact Lily - lillian@traveluxeofficial.com

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Quote

“The key to keeping employees happy is to get the right people on the bus, the wrong people off the bus, and the right people in the right seats.” - Tom Barrett

The finer details of this episode

How to keep your employees happy
Using accountability charts to get everyone into “the right seat”
Processes for transitioning and onboarding employees into their roles
Making sure that everyone gets into seats that fit their strengths
Seeing people’s potential for leadership or supervising
Tips for the interview process to assess potential new team members
The importance of solidifying your company values when it comes to getting teammates into the right seat

Episode resources

Summit CPA website - www.summitcpa.net
Email us with questions/comments- cpa@summitcpa.net

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Quote

“We were growing, I was wearing a lot of hats, and I started to realize our finances should be doing better.” - Greg Bear

The finer details of this episode

How Bear Group got started and their experience as a remote company
Their process of hiring a CFO
How Summit CPA has helped Bear Group to uplevel their business
New financial management tricks Greg learned during the onboarding process
Bear Group’s financial workflow
Factors that attributed to fast cash growth for The Bear Group
What to consider if your business is looking to hire a CFO

Episode resources

Summit CPA website - www.summitcpa.net
Email us with questions/comments- cpa@summitcpa.net

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Quote

“I have the ability to play financial offense for clients, getting them the cash they need to continue to grow.” - Dan Kalis

The finer details of this episode

How to create good relationships with your bank
Keeping your business in a good financial position
The three C’s of lending
The importance of building your business credit profile
What to do when you don’t have the capital to grow your business
When you should borrow from a bank and when you should go a different route
Creative ways to meet your business’s cash needs

Episode resources

Summit CPA website - www.summitcpa.net
Email us with questions - cpa@summitcpa.net

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Quote

“Scope out the wifi situation before you arrive somewhere. The worst workweeks have been when I had to use my phone hotspot to work.” - Mikala Paige

The finer details of this episode

Angie and Mikala’s stories and how they joined Summit CPA
Tips for creating a remote/travel lifestyle
Things to research before moving to a new location
How Angie worked from a van
Having a social life when you work remotely and travel
Challenges and advantages of working remotely and traveling
Equipment you will need for remote work

Episode resources

Summit CPA website - www.summitcpa.net
Email us with questions - cpa@summitcpa.net

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Quote

“You have four professionals under one roof, so if you can’t genuinely respect and understand everyone’s industry, you are going to have a hard time implementing family services into your office” - Michael Frost

The finer details of this episode

Why bringing in a family office may be a good compliment to what you are doing as a VCFO
Where to start with moving towards a family office
The relationship the CPA firm has with the other professionals
How building a family office creates a better client experience
How professionals are able to serve each other within a family office
Best practices for onboarding a client onto a family practice
Questions to ask to determine if someone is going to be a successful partner

Episode resources

Summit CPA website - www.summitcpa.net
Email us with questions - cpa@summitcpa.net

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Quote

“The time you spend on EOS tools, you are going to save that time and more in the long run.” - Tom Barrett

The finer details of this episode

How to determine if your organization needs EOS
The process of implementing EOS
Advantages of working with an EOS implementer
The six key components of EOS
Setting priorities using the EOS model

Episode resources

Summit CPA website - www.summitcpa.net
Email us with questions - cpa@summitcpa.net
Navigate the Journey - https://navigatethejourney.com/

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Quote

“We need to be committed to the boring stuff in our business because it is the backbone of how everything runs.” - Emily Morgan

The finer details of this episode

Tips for small businesses on delegating their admin tasks
Advantages of having a virtual assistant
How to start delegating some of your admin work in your business
How to get comfortable letting go of tasks in your business
What the day-to-day looks like working with a virtual assistant

Episode resources

Summit CPA website - www.summitcpa.net
Email us with questions - cpa@summitcpa.net
Delegate Solutions - https://www.delegatesolutions.com/

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Quote

“Intentionally fostering serendipity in a distributed company will help keep isolation at bay.” - Matt Westgate

The finer details of this episode

What brought Matt to Summit CPA
Why Lullabot decided to become a distributed company
The benefits of working with a distributed team
Maintaining company culture when your team is distributed
The evolution of the Lullabot leadership team
How Matt pulled his company out of financial hardship
Creating psychological safety in your company culture

Episode resources

Summit CPA website - www.summitcpa.net
Email us with questions - cpa@summitcpa.net
Lullabot - https://www.lullabot.com/

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Quote

“Every metric tells you what button you need to push to make yourself more profitable.” - Justin Hatch

The finer details of this episode

What Reach Reporting does for its clients
How Summit CPA found Reach Reporting and why it is so important to us
Why visual, simple reports are such important tools for CPA firms
How you can get Reach Reporting set up in your firm

Episode resources

Summit CPA website - www.summitcpa.net
Email us with questions - cpa@summitcpa.net
Reach Reporting - https://www.reachreporting.com/

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Quote

“Cash flow tools allow you to help every client with short term forecasting.” - Justin Pulgrano

The finer details of this episode

Why cash flow is a critical piece of data to collect for your business
What makes Finagraph a great tool for measuring cash flow
What the setup of Finagraph looks like
The disadvantages of accrual statements
Why you should manage cash flow using a tool instead of a spreadsheet
What is next for Finagraph
Why cash is so important in these times

Episode resources

Summit CPA website - www.summitcpa.net
Email us with questions - cpa@summitcpa.net
Finagraph - https://www.finagraph.com/
Contact Justin - justin@finagraph.com

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Quote

“The three legs of the stool are culture, tech and tools, and client backgrounds.” - Adam Hale

The finer details of this episode

How to communicate your core values with a new employee
The process for teaching new employees the tools and systems
What the schedule looks like for a new employee during their first weeks
Providing real-time feedback to new employees

Episode resources

Summit CPA website - www.summitcpa.net
Email us with questions - cpa@summitcpa.net

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Quote

“We are trying to learn about a candidate, know how they are going to fit into the culture, and know how they are going to do the job in a very small amount of time.” - Zach

The finer details of this episode

How Summit CPA has struggled in the past with hiring
The hiring assessments that Zach introduced to Summit CPA
Why Emotional Intelligence is such an important factor in a potential employee
How the EQ assessment works and how to read the results
The Kolbe assessment and how to use it in your hiring process

Episode resources

Summit CPA website - www.summitcpa.net
Email us with questions/comments- cpa@summitcpa.net
Zach’s Website - https://navigatethejourney.com/

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Quote

“Don’t try to game the system with these. The government is going to be really scrutinizing the details with this.” - Jody Grunden

The finer details of this episode

Which expenses are included in loan forgiveness
What you should do if your business uses contractors
How to approach documentation
What you need to know about the regulations and guidelines
The timing and process to obtain forgiveness
How to work with any loan that isn’t forgiven
Do you need to pay taxes on the loan forgiveness?

Episode resources

Summit CPA website - www.summitcpa.net
Email us with questions/comments- cpa@summitcpa.net

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Quote

“It’s impossible to have all these experiences yourself, so you get that from reading books.” - Adam Hale

The finer details of this episode

How The E-Myth Revisited laid the framework that Jody used to set up Summit CPA
How Getting Things Done can help accountants and CFOs stay organized and on top of their work
How Summit CPA uses The 4 Disciplines of Execution
Tips for how you can develop strong reading habits

Episode resources

Summit CPA website - www.summitcpa.net
Email us with questions - cpa@summitcpa.net
The E-Myth Revisited, Michael E Gerber
Getting Things Done, David Allen
The 4 Disciplines of Execution

The 4 Disciplines of Execution: Achieving Your Wildly Important Goals

Getting Things Done: The Art of Stress-Free Productivity [Paperback] [Apr 22, 2015] David Allen

The E-Myth Revisited: Why Most Small Businesses Don't Work and What to Do About It

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Quote

“Project management tools are built for a defined sprint of work, but there is a big gap in recurring client management tools.” - David Cristello

The finer details of this episode

David’s background and how he started JetPack Workflow
Why JetPack Workflow is a valuable project management tool for CPA firms
How to set up JetPack Workflow in your firm
When a firm begins to migrate into JetPack Workflow
Why JetPack Workflow is more effective than other project management tools
How JetPack Workflow has moved the needle on Summit CPA’s gross profit
The best way for smaller firms to adapt to a JetPack Workflow
Summit CPA’s approach to maintaining their JetPack Workflow
What new things are coming from JetPack Workflow in the future

Episode resources

Summit CPA website - www.summitcpa.net
Email us with questions - cpa@summitcpa.net
JetPack Workflow - https://jetpackworkflow.com/

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Quote

“For the clients that are really hit hard, if they are completely shut down, the Employee Retention Credit might be a good move for them.” - Adam Hale

The finer details of this episode

Should you apply for the PPP or EIDL?
What you can do for businesses that are shut down for the foreseeable future
Your responsibility as a CPA in this crisis
How we are approaching COVID-19 with our clients
Forecasting tips to help clients work through the near future

Episode resources

Summit CPA website - www.summitcpa.net
Email us with questions - cpa@summitcpa.net

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Quote

“Times are different now with COVID-19, but these are conversations we need to have when the economy is doing really well.” - Adam Hale

The finer details of this episode

What conversations you want to be having with your clients during difficult times
How to approach making a plan with your clients to get them back on track
How to have difficult conversations with clients
Why weekly meetings with a CFO can help businesses survive a rough patch
Talking through layoffs, furlows, and pay cuts with your clients
What you can do for your clients during the COVID-19 crisis

Episode resources

Summit CPA website - www.summitcpa.net
Email us with questions - cpa@summitcpa.net

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Quote

“Creating a dedicated space for your work is one of the most essential things you can do when working from home.” - Adam Hale

The finer details of this episode

How Summit CPA became a virtual company
Work from home tips from the Summit CPA team
Perks of working from home
Our favorite tools for working online
How this can actually be a blessing in disguise for your company
How to support yourself and your coworkers through this quarantine period
How virtual teams can support business growth even better than in-person teams

Episode resources

Summit CPA website - www.summitcpa.net
Email us with questions/comments- cpa@summitcpa.net
Secoco - https://www.sococo.com/
LastPass - https://www.lastpass.com/
Sharepoint - https://products.office.com/en-us/sharepoint/collaboration
Boxcryptor - https://www.boxcryptor.com/en/

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Quote

“Every good client relationship we’ve had with Summit CPA started out positive from the very beginning.” - Adam Hale

The finer details of this episode

How Summit CPA approaches the onboarding process
Why we have a team designated for onboarding new clients (and why we charge extra fees)
The keys to a successful onboarding process
Expectations we always set with our clients
Best practices for communicating with clients
Who is involved in onboarding? What are the roles to fill?
How long onboarding takes for us and what the timeline looks like

Episode resources

Summit CPA website - www.summitcpa.net
Email us with questions - cpa@summitcpa.net

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Quote

“You don’t need a silver bullet every time you meet with your client” - Jamie Nau

The finer details of this episode

How to prepare yourself and your client for your meetings
How Summit CPA has done this in the past and how we do it now
The core meetings that you need to have with your client
Conversations that are important to have in your meetings
How to decide and communicate who should be in each meeting
What the meetings look like for each service your CPA firm offers
How long your meetings should be and how frequently you should hold meetings

Episode resources

Summit CPA website - www.summitcpa.net
Email us with questions - cpa@summitcpa.net

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Quote

“The marketing for Summit CPA is focused on building relationships. ” - Kelly Schuknecht

The finer details of this episode

How to choose which priorities to focus on when marketing your CPA firm
Why good marketing is education-based and why you shouldn’t be afraid to “give out too much information”
How to determine if a marketing tactic is effective or not
How to leverage the different social media platforms for brand awareness
Leveraging the team at your CPA firm for a strong marketing strategy
How to choose the right tools for marketing your business
Tools we use at Summit CPA to make our marketing easier

Episode resources

Summit CPA website - www.summitcpa.net
Email us with questions - cpa@summitcpa.net
Hubspot - hubspot.com
Canva - canva.com
Later - later.com

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Quote

“If you really want to grow your firm and scale your practice, you have to have a process.” - Adam Hale

The finer details of this episode

What it was like in the early days of Summit CPA
How Summit CPA uses the 80/20 rule to embrace creativity with clients while also keeping solid systems behind the scenes
Tools we use to standardize our systems
What our processes look like at Summit CPA
How creating videos is the best way to standardize processes
How to standardize meetings without being too rigid
How standardizing and recording systems helps in onboarding new team members
Why you should be careful about over-standardizing

Episode resources

Summit CPA website - www.summitcpa.net
Email us with questions - cpa@summitcpa.net
Jetpack - https://jetpackworkflow.com/

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Quote

“Taxes are a natural fit with any kind of CPA services you provide.” - Adam Hale

The finer details of this episode

How the tax services fit in with the other Virtual CFO services at Summit CPA
Why we don’t lead with tax services
Why CPA firms should departmentalize their tax work
Why taxes should be a small part of your CPA firm
The tax strategy we use with our Virtual CFO clients
How we are going to continue to improve our tax services in the future
Why doing taxes for Virtual CPA clients improves the overall client experience
Why it is so much easier to do taxes for Virtual CFO clients

Episode resources

Summit CPA website - www.summitcpa.net
Email us with questions- cpa@summitcpa.net

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“For us, it’s about a long-term relationship. It’s about being a part of our client’s business for years to come, not just about cranking out one tax return.” - Adam Hale

The finer details of this episode

How we sell our services through education.
Why you should give away as much information as possible to your client base.
How to position yourself as the subject matter expert.
Why finding a niche is valuable.
What to consider when choosing your ideal client.
What the Summit CPA sales process looks like.
How Summit CPA’s sales process is unique and why it works so well.

Episode resources

Summit CPA website - www.summitcpa.net
Email us with questions - cpa@summitcpa.net

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“One of our strengths as a firm is that we are not afraid to move on to the next best software.” - Jamie Nau

The finer details of this episode

The different types of software that Jake and Adam learned about at Live 360, an IT conference they attended in Orlando.
The software programs that Adam and Jake want to bring to the firm to upgrade how things work on the back end.
The advantages of the Microsoft platform and what they think it will bring into the workspace.
The advantage of Sharepoint and why the firm is moving in that direction.
The logistics of how they got members of the team to the conference.
The advantages of sending your team members to conferences.

Episode resources

Summit CPA - www.summitcpa.net
Email us with questions - cpa@summitcpa.net
Live 360 Tech Events - https://live360events.com/
Sharepoint - https://products.office.com/en-us/sharepoint/collaboration
Pexcard - https://www.pexcard.com/

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“We’re not just looking to hire someone with an accounting degree. Customer interaction is very important to us.” - Zach Montroy

The finer details of this episode

The Summit CPA hiring process.
Are passionate people driving HR?
Culture, values, and EQi.
The tough questions Summit asks in the interview process.
How Summit CPA’s leadership team is involved in the process.

Episode resources

Summit CPA website - www.summitcpa.net
Email us with questions - cpa@summitcpa.net

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“They don’t feel like they have to guess while they grow. There’s a concrete plan.” - Jake Grimm

The finer details of this episode

Why Adam thinks Summit is the firm of today.
What Summit CPA is doing with tech to be efficient.
How to save 30 minutes a week per client
The keys to evaluating tech tools.
The Summit CPA tech stack.
The power of forecasting.

Episode resources

Summit CPA website - www.summitcpa.net
Email us with questions - cpa@summitcpa.net
Bill.com - https://www.bill.com
Expensify - https://www.expensify.com
DiviPay - https://divipay.com
JetPack Workflow - https://jetpackworkflow.com
Trello - https://trello.com/en-US
G Suite - https://gsuite.google.com

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“If they’re not willing to get on camera, then they likely won’t be a good prospect.” - Jody Grunden

The finer details of this episode

What is a distributed model and terms used to describe it.
How Summit CPA became distributed.
The logistics of working from home.
The tools used to support a distributed model.
Why in-person events are important.

Episode resources

Summit CPA website - www.summitcpa.net
Email us with questions - cpa@summitcpa.net
Sococo

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“If we want to make an impact in the industry, if we want to change the way everyone is thinking, then we have to get our peers to do the same.” - Adam Hale

The finer details of this episode

Jody and Adam share how they got into the accounting industry
What Jody wanted to differently when starting Summit CPA
Moving from an hourly model to value-based pricing and achieving a negative AR
The type of services that Summit CPA provides to clients
How Summit CPA helps accountants go virtual
What role does core values play in the organization

Episode resources

Summit CPA website - www.summitcpa.net
Email us with questions - cpa@summitcpa.net

The Modern CPA Success Show: Recent Episodes

Summit CPA Group