Accountant's Minute's podcast

In this episode of Accountants Minute Podcast, Peter Towers, founder of ESS BIZTOOLS, challenges accountants, bookkeepers, and business advisors to rethink their role with SME clients. It's time to move beyond tax returns and embrace the full potential of business advisory services. Peter explores how tools like the SME Needs Analysis, Business Plus+ newsletters, and Predictive Accounting Reports can empower accountants to deliver real impact – helping clients manage cash flow, reduce debtors days outstanding, plan for succession and raise capital. He also reflects on why many SMEs are missing out on critical advice and how accountants can step into the gap as trusted business advisors. If you're ready to broaden your services, deepen client relationships, and future-proof your firm, this episode is essential listening.

In this episode of the Accountants Minute Podcast, Peter Towers dives into why so many Australian businesses struggle to scale—and how accountants and advisors play a pivotal role in building the right foundations. From strengthening internal systems and cash flow forecasting to debtors management, supplier negotiations, and business planning, Peter unpacks practical ways professionals can guide SME clients toward sustainable growth. Tune in to discover how you can help your clients avoid costly pitfalls and position your firm as a trusted advisor on their scaling journey. You can also access our podcast on: Amazon Music Apple Podcasts Audible Spotify YouTube    

In this episode of Accountants Minute Podcast, Peter Towers explores how accountants, bookkeepers, and business advisors can respond to the mounting pressures faced by SME clients—and their own firms. With compliance services rapidly evolving and advisory opportunities expanding, Peter outlines how the ESS BIZTOOLS Starter Package equips you to become a virtual CFO, deliver ongoing commercial insights, and support clients through financial forecasting, R&D, charge-out rates, and more. If you're ready to move beyond tax returns and help businesses truly thrive, this episode is your roadmap to getting started. You can also access our podcast on: Amazon Music Apple Podcasts Audible Spotify YouTube    

In this episode of the Accountants Minute Podcast, Peter Towers, Managing Director of ESS BIZTOOLS, explores how accountants, bookkeepers, and business advisors can create meaningful conversations that go beyond compliance and drive real results for SME clients. Drawing from decades of experience, Peter highlights the importance of proactive client engagement, effective communication of advisory services, and the power of tools like the Business Plus+ newsletter to spark valuable dialogue and deliver measurable improvements in client outcomes. Discover how to shift your conversations from reactive to transformative – and why it's time to start promoting your advisory offerings like your clients market their own businesses. You can also access our podcast on: Amazon Music Apple Podcasts Audible Spotify YouTube

In this episode of Accountants Minute Podcast, Peter Towers, Managing Director of ESS BIZTOOLS, explores how accountants, bookkeepers, and business advisors can put Business Plus+ into action to spark meaningful conversations with SME clients. Learn how this monthly communication tool becomes a gateway to advisory services - covering everything from business planning and R&D to selling a business and improving cash flow. Peter also reflects on industry shifts, including warnings from Chris Jordan and Mark Wickersham on the decline of compliance work, reinforcing the urgent need to evolve into proactive advisory roles. If you're ready to move from insight to implementation, this episode is essential listening. You can also access our podcast on: Amazon Music Apple Podcasts Audible Spotify YouTube

In this episode of Accountant's Minute Podcast, Peter Towers unpacks the urgent need for accountants, bookkeepers, and business advisors to pivot as traditional compliance work continues to decline. Drawing on insights from thought leaders like Mark Wickersham and former ATO Commissioner Chris Jordan, Peter explores how firms can future-proof themselves through proactive, value-adding advisory services. Learn how the Business Plus+ newsletter can become your secret weapon to engage SME clients, build trust, and showcase your expertise far beyond tax returns. If you're ready to move from "tax preparer" to "trusted advisor," this episode is for you. You can also access our podcast on: Amazon Music Apple Podcasts Audible Spotify YouTube

In this special podcast episode, based on the 400th edition of Accountants Minute, Peter Towers delivers a powerful wake-up call for the accounting profession. With compliance work on the decline and automation accelerating, the future belongs to those who embrace their role as trusted advisors. Learn how to diversify your services, implement powerful advisory tools like financial forecasting and virtual CFO support, and make your firm indispensable to SME clients. Featuring insights from thought leader Mark Wickersham and a candid look at the challenges facing SMEs today, this episode is a must-listen for any accounting professional serious about staying relevant—and thriving—in a changing landscape. You can also access our podcast on: Amazon Music Apple Podcasts Audible Spotify YouTube

In this Accountants Minute Podcast episode, Peter Towers challenges accountants, bookkeepers, and advisors to step beyond compliance and become strategic leaders in their clients' growth journeys. Peter dives into what it really takes to deliver premium advisory services—from implementing performance-driven systems and predictive accounting to mastering business planning and becoming a true "storyteller" for your clients' future success. Whether you're advising SMEs or aspiring to be a virtual CFO, this episode is packed with practical insights to help you build scalable, future-focused services—and position your firm at the forefront of the profession. Don't miss this call to action as we approach our 400th edition! You can also access our podcast on: Amazon Music Apple Podcasts Audible Spotify YouTube

In this episode of Accountant's Minute Podcast, Peter Towers urges accountants, bookkeepers, and advisors to move beyond compliance work and embrace value-added services. With automation rapidly reducing tax-related tasks, now is the time to step up as trusted advisors, offering strategic insights to help SMEs thrive. Discover why your future depends on advisory services—and how you can start the shift today. You can also access our podcast on: Amazon Music Apple Podcasts Audible Spotify YouTube

In this episode of The Accountant's Minute Podcast, Peter Towers, Managing Director of ESS BIZTOOLS, delves into The Future of Accounting—a crucial topic for accountants, bookkeepers, and business advisors working with SMEs. With over 2 million small businesses in Australia facing increasing financial pressures, is your firm ready to evolve beyond compliance and tax return services? Peter explores the shifting landscape of accounting, highlighting former Tax Commissioner Chris Jordan's warning: High-volume, low-margin tax work is unsustainable. Learn how you can transition to advisory-based services, add value to your SME clients, and secure the future of your practice. Plus, discover the Advisory Intro Package—a simple way to start offering financial and management advisory services within just one week. Tune in for actionable insights and strategies to future-proof your accounting firm. You can also access our podcast on: Amazon Music Apple Podcasts Audible Spotify YouTube    

Boost your firm's impact with financial forecasting! In this episode of the ESS BIZTOOLS Accountants' Minute Podcast, Peter Towers explores how accountants, bookkeepers, and business advisors can elevate their SME clients' success through effective business planning and predictive accounting. Learn why financial forecasting is crucial for sustainable growth, cash flow management, and strategic decision-making. Discover how to guide SMEs in developing business plans, managing key financial drivers, and leveraging capital-raising opportunities. Tune in to stay ahead in advisory services and help your clients thrive! You can also access our podcast on: Amazon Music Apple Podcasts Audible Spotify YouTube

In this episode of Accountants Minute podcast, Peter Towers, Managing Director of ESS BIZTOOLS, explores the crucial role of systems in ‘scaling up' SMEs. Drawing from real-world business insights and MYOB research, Peter discusses how poor debtor management, inadequate supplier agreements, and lack of cash flow planning contribute to SME failures. He highlights the importance of structured processes, weekly financial tracking and strategic planning to ensure business sustainability. Tune in to discover practical strategies accountants, bookkeepers and business advisors can use to help their clients build robust financial systems and drive growth. You can also access our podcast on: Amazon Music Apple Podcasts Audible Spotify YouTube

In this episode of the Accountant's Minute Podcast, Peter Towers, Managing Director of ESS BIZTOOLS, dives into the critical role that systems play in SME success. Drawing from MYOB research and real-world business case studies, Peter highlights how poor implementation - or complete absence - of financial and operational systems leads to cash flow crises, supplier issues, and mounting tax liabilities. He discusses key problem areas such as unrealistic payment expectations, debtor management, and the importance of predictive accounting. Peter also outlines the 12 Essential Systems for Business Success and explains why accountants, bookkeepers, and advisors should guide their clients in establishing structured financial processes. Tune in to gain insights on how to help your SME clients avoid financial pitfalls and thrive in today's business environment. You can also access our podcast on: Amazon Music Apple Podcasts Audible Spotify YouTube

In this episode of The Accountant's Minute Podcast, Peter Towers dives into the critical role accountants, bookkeepers, and business advisors play in helping SMEs thrive. With 91% of business owners identifying growth as their biggest challenge, Peter discusses how structured financial systems, predictive accounting, and strategic business planning can drive sustainable success. He highlights the shifting landscape of compliance work, urging professionals to expand into advisory services to stay ahead of automation and changing industry demands. Packed with insights on financial controls, business metrics, and the importance of weekly performance reviews, this episode is a must-listen for those looking to add real value to their clients. Tune in to learn how to future-proof your practice and take advantage of ESS BIZTOOLS' ready-made advisory systems. You can also access our podcast on: Amazon Music Apple Podcasts Audible Spotify YouTube

In this podcast episode, Peter Towers, Managing Director of ESS BIZTOOLS, discusses the growing challenges faced by SMEs, including financial pressures, high debt levels, and business closures. He emphasises the crucial role of accountants, bookkeepers, and business advisors in providing proactive financial and commercial advisory services to help SMEs navigate these difficulties. Peter highlights the importance of business planning, debtor management, cash flow forecasting, and strategic financial advice, arguing that accountants should expand their services beyond tax compliance. He also introduces ESS BIZTOOLS as a comprehensive solution for firms looking to enhance their advisory offerings, providing resources, training, and tools to better support SME clients. You can also access our podcast on: Amazon Music Apple Podcasts Audible Spotify YouTube

In this episode of The Accountants Minute Podcast, Peter Towers discusses the significant challenges SMEs will face in 2025. He highlights the critical need for SMEs to have access to real-time financial and commercial advisory services beyond just annual tax returns. Drawing from his experience in corporate financial management, Peter emphasises the importance of proactive financial reporting, key performance indicator (KPI) tracking, and predictive accounting. He urges accountants and bookkeepers to implement a '52-Week Business Enhancement System' that includes daily and weekly financial oversight to help SMEs identify and resolve financial issues promptly, ensuring their long-term survival and success. You can also access our podcast on: Amazon Music Apple Podcasts Audible Spotify YouTube

In this final Accountant's Minute podcast episode for 2024, Peter Towers emphasises the critical role accountants, bookkeepers, and business advisors play in guiding SMEs through increasingly challenging times. Amidst high interest rates, inflation, and business failures, SMEs are struggling with fiscal management, cash flow issues, and a lack of strategic financial guidance. Peter underscores that accountants must evolve beyond taxation services to offer financial and commercial advisory support that businesses desperately need. He highlights the importance of predictive accounting, detailed reporting, and proactive planning to help SMEs not only survive but thrive. Drawing on examples and industry insights, Peter explores the value of structured systems, such as the 52-Week Business Enhancement System, developed by ESS BIZTOOLS, and stresses the need for ongoing financial reporting—daily, weekly, and monthly—to drive accountability and performance. He urges accountants to adopt a virtual CFO mindset, providing SMEs with the expertise typically reserved for larger businesses. As the year concludes, Peter encourages professionals to seize the opportunity to expand their advisory services, ensuring a prosperous and resilient future for their clients in 2025. You can also access our podcast on: Amazon Music Apple Podcasts Audible Spotify YouTube

In this episode of Accountants Minute, Peter Towers explores how the Business Plus Newsletter equips accountants, bookkeepers, and business advisors with the tools to empower SME clients for success. As SMEs face rising challenges like high interest rates, inflation, and market uncertainty, Peter emphasises the need for proactive financial and commercial advisory services. The Business Plus Newsletter offers practical strategies and insights to help advisors guide SMEs in areas such as business planning, cash flow management, and capital raising. Peter highlights key features of the newsletter, including actionable articles that address fiscal management, R&D, and innovation opportunities. Designed to spark meaningful conversations between advisors and their clients, the Business Plus Newsletter is a resource for fostering resilience and growth in SMEs. Tune in to learn how this tool can position you as a thought leader and provide real value to your clients in navigating the complexities of today's business environment. You can also access our podcast on: Amazon Music Apple Podcasts Audible Spotify YouTube

In this episode of Accountants Minute Podcast (based on Issue 388), we explore the transformative power of advisory services and how they can future-proof your firm in an ever-evolving business landscape. As traditional compliance-based roles face increasing automation and market competition, firms must pivot toward offering strategic insights that deliver measurable value to their clients. Peter Towers share actionable advice on identifying advisory opportunities, building client trust, and leveraging technology to enhance decision-making and create a competitive edge. Tune in to learn how embracing advisory services can unlock new revenue streams, strengthen client relationships, and position your firm as a forward-thinking leader. If you are just beginning to diversify your service offerings, this episode provides practical tips and real-world examples to help you adapt, innovate, and thrive in the future of business consulting, as well as how to utilise the ESS BIZTOOLS Advisory Intro Package to kick-start your advisory services journey. You can also access our podcast on: Amazon Music Apple Podcasts Audible Spotify YouTube

In this insightful episode of Accountant's Minute (based on Issue 387), Peter Towers, Managing Director of ESS BIZTOOLS, dives deep into the transformative role accountants can play in small and medium-sized enterprises (SMEs) by adopting a proactive advisory approach. He emphasises the limitations of traditional accounting practices that focus solely on tax returns, which often reflect past performance rather than addressing ongoing business challenges. Through the innovative Advanced Package, developed by ESS BIZTOOLS, accountants are equipped with tools to monitor key financial metrics, address productivity fluctuations, and provide real-time strategic advice to help SMEs navigate complex market conditions. Peter underscores the importance of services such as predictive financial accounts, detailed cash flow forecasting, and strategic business planning to ensure businesses stay resilient in an increasingly volatile economy. By adopting a virtual Chief Financial Officer (CFO) role, accountants can drive client loyalty, enhance team engagement, and generate additional revenue streams. This episode provides a compelling case for modernising accounting practices and showcases how ESS BIZTOOLS' resources empower accountants to deliver value beyond compliance, ensuring long-term client success and firm growth. You can also access our podcast on: Amazon Music Apple Podcasts Audible Spotify YouTube  

In this episode of Accountants Minute Podcast, Peter Towers, Managing Director of ESS BIZTOOLS, dives into the essential role of accountants and advisors in supporting SMEs through challenging economic conditions. Peter explores the gap in advisory services offered to SMEs and highlights how accountants can transform their approach by offering comprehensive virtual CFO services, leveraging modern tools, and adopting a proactive mindset. Discover insights into the ESS BIZTOOLS Starter Package, featuring 13 modules designed to upskill accounting teams and enhance their ability to deliver impactful advisory services. Peter also discusses the importance of business planning, cash flow management, and alternative funding methods like crowd-sourced funding equity raising. This episode is packed with actionable advice for accounting firms looking to strengthen client relationships and deliver value beyond compliance work. Key Topics Covered: ·         The need for proactive advisory services for SMEs. ·         Benefits of offering virtual CFO services. ·         How the ESS BIZTOOLS Starter Package supports accounting firms. ·         Practical tools like charge-out rate calculators and retail pricing models. ·         Unlocking growth through research and development incentives and funding strategies. Learn how to empower your firm to be a trusted advisor and help your clients navigate today's challenges. Visit www.essbiztools.com.au to explore the Starter Package and begin your journey. You can also access our podcast on: Amazon Music Apple Podcasts Audible Spotify YouTube  

The success of SMEs in challenging economic times is increasingly tied to the advisory services provided by accountants. High interest rates, inflation, and business failures are creating significant hurdles, and many SMEs lack the fiscal management skills needed to navigate these issues. Accountants can play a vital role by offering continuous, year-round support, helping with debtor management, financial planning, and business enhancement systems. To remain viable, accountants should shift from traditional roles to becoming trusted advisors, as recommended by the former Tax Commissioner, thereby attracting clients focused on scaling their businesses.

In this episode of the ESS BizTools podcast, host Peter Towers, Managing Director of ESS BizTools, introduces the Tradie Charge Out Rate Calculator, a powerful tool designed to help tradespeople accurately determine their charge-out rates. The article emphasises the importance of setting rates that not only cover costs but also ensure profitability and business growth. By using this calculator, tradespeople can take into account all relevant expenses, including labor, materials, and overheads, to arrive at a rate that reflects the true value of their services. This post is a must-read for tradespeople and accountants alike, as it highlights the critical role of accurate pricing in maintaining a sustainable and successful business, and offers a practical solution to a common challenge in the trades industry.

In this episode of the ESS BizTools podcast, host Peter Towers, Managing Director of ESS BizTools, delves into the significant opportunities that equity financing presents for accountants. The article highlights how accountants can play a crucial role in guiding businesses through the complexities of raising capital, particularly through equity financing. Key topics include understanding the various forms of equity financing, advising clients on the strategic benefits of bringing in investors, and navigating the legal and financial implications of equity deals. The post underscores the importance of accountants expanding their knowledge in this area to better support their clients' growth and long-term success. This piece is essential for accountants seeking to broaden their expertise in financial advisory services and capitalize on the valuable opportunities presented by equity financing.

In this episode of the ESS BizTools podcast, host Peter Towers, Managing Director of ESS BizTools, explores the dynamic challenges and emerging opportunities within the accounting profession. The article emphasises the need for accountants to adapt to a rapidly changing business environment, where technological advancements and evolving client expectations are reshaping the role of financial professionals. Key insights include the importance of embracing digital tools to enhance efficiency, the growing demand for strategic advisory services, and the need for continuous professional development to stay ahead in the industry. This post is a must-read for accountants looking to future-proof their practices by leveraging new opportunities and meeting the increasing complexities of the profession with confidence.

In this episode of the ESS BizTools podcast, host Peter Towers, Managing Director of ESS BizTools, delves into the evolving landscape of accountancy with a focus on how advisory services are shaping the future of the profession. The discussion centers around the increasing demand for accountants to go beyond traditional tax and compliance roles, taking on the mantle of strategic advisors who guide businesses through complex financial landscapes. Key points include the importance of proactive financial planning, the value of detailed cash flow analysis, and the critical role accountants play in helping businesses navigate economic challenges. This podcast is an essential listen for accounting professionals seeking to expand their advisory capabilities and offer clients a more holistic approach to business management, ultimately contributing to their long-term success.

In this episode of the ESS BizTools podcast, host Peter Towers, Managing Director of ESS BizTools, is joined by Trevor Marchant, Managing Director of Marchant Dallas. They discuss crucial financial management and advisory strategies for small businesses and entrepreneurs, particularly emphasising the need for thorough fiscal preparation before starting a business. The conversation highlights the often-overlooked aspects of business planning such as realistic budgeting, understanding supplier terms, and the importance of cash flow management. They also delve into the broader role of accountants and bookkeepers as essential advisors beyond tax and compliance, stressing their importance in preparing entrepreneurs for the hurdles of business management. This episode serves as a valuable resource for professionals in the accounting and bookkeeping fields, offering insights into how they can better serve their clients and potentially reduce business failure rates by providing comprehensive financial advice from the outset.

Featuring Trevor Marchant of Marchant Dallas, this podcast discusses the latest article produced by The Boss Factor Library.

The '2024 NAB Accounting and Financial Planning Report' revealed that 85% of surveyed Accounting Firms are “offering business strategy”, emphasising the growing importance of Advisory Services in the Accounting Industry. While the report highlights the significant role of ‘Advisory Services', it prompts a crucial question: Is your Accountancy/Bookkeeping Firm prepared to ‘DELIVER BUSINESS ADVISORY SERVICES IN 2024'?

This podcast episode recaps Issue 357 of Accountants Minute, the fifth segment of the discussion with Andrew Geddes about important issues currently facing the Accounting industry. You can also access our podcast on: Amazon Music Apple Podcasts Audible Spotify YouTube

When Andrew Geddes speaks, smart accountants listen – they'd be crazy not to! This podcast episode recaps issue 351 of Accountants Minute, where we highlight our recent interview with Andrew Geddes, a co-founder of the FMRC and former Chair of Greencross Pty Ltd. Andrew issued a timely warning to accountancy firms that they need to diversify and to do it now. This episode also provides the why and the how of this particular warning. You can also access our podcast on: Amazon Music Apple Podcasts Audible Spotify YouTube

This episode looks into Issue 350 of Accountants Minute, where accountants are reminded that launching advisory services should be a high priority for the last quarter of 2022/23 financial year. You can also access our podcast on: Amazon Music Apple Podcasts Audible Spotify YouTube  

This episode discusses the key components of the "52-week business enhancement system", which is the main topic of Accountants Minute Issue 349. You can also access our podcast on: Amazon Music Apple Podcasts Audible Spotify YouTube  

This podcast episode is based on Issue 348 of Accountants Minute, which provides commentary on Thomson Reuters' recent White Paper, Leading Australian SMEs in 2023's Changing Economy. You can also access our podcast on: Amazon Music Apple Podcasts Audible Spotify YouTube    

This podcast discusses Issue 347 of Accountants Minute, which explains why accountants and bookkeepers should diversify their services by providing R&D assistance to their SME clients. You can also access our podcast on: Apple Podcasts - https://apple.co/3XQ4p9z Audible - https://adbl.co/3YTdnEh Spotify - https://spoti.fi/3YWjbgj YouTube - https://youtu.be/2rbUNgcbous

Based on the recent report from Commbank's Accounting Market Pulse, "the only limitation they face is the worsening talent shortage." This podcast looks back into Issue 346 of Accountants Minute, where a point was raised on how accountants and bookkeepers are facing this particular issue and ways of overcoming the hurdle of talent shortage.

This podcast episode presented reasons why Business Advisory Services is the best way to add value to your accounting and bookkeeping firm and, in turn, add value to your SME client's businesses.

This episode talks about how you, as an accountant, can guide your SME clients on their "innovation journey" and help them commercialise their inventions. This episode also identifies the steps you need to take with your SME clients to turn their prototype into a profitable, commercial sale product, and mentions a way for your SME clients to claim Research and Development incentives from the government.

read more: https://www.essbiztools.com.au/ess-biztools-blogs/e-newsletters-a-vital-communication-tool-for-accountants

ESS BIZTOOLS is in the process of reconfiguring our product packages following the strong response we have received from the webinar, presented by the Academy of CPAs (Certified Predictive Accountants) 3 weeks ago, when Adam Hale, partner Summit CPA an American accountant who was described by the Managing Director of PlanGuru as an “accounting industry rockstar”, gave an outstanding overview of the Virtual CFO Service that his firm had introduced for their clients. More: https://www.essbiztools.com.au/ess-biztools-blogs/want-to-know-more-about-the-accounting-revolution

Peter Towers comments on the following: podcast last week with Andrew Geddes “It's a New Business Model – I think it is going to revolutionise the sector globally.” Predictive Accounting webinar presented with Paul Barnaby, Beyond Accounting Technologies; Holiday Package promotion.

Peter Towers, Managing Director of ESS BIZTOOLS and Andrew Geddes, Director of Andrew Geddes Pty Ltd, discuss “Where to for Australian Accounting Industry in 2022-2023”

Accountants are facing a worsening talent shortage according to the recent edition of CommBank's Accounting Market Pulse. In November 2021 “Australian Accounting Guru” Andrew Geddes indicated that “partners of accountancy firms are saying there are not enough young accountants, but no, there are enough of them, they have chosen not to work in the profession because they have been asked to do compliance work only and to obtain 80% productivity which has caused people to say – I'm not sure I want to work in that environment”. More: https://www.essbiztools.com.au/index.php?option=com_zoo&task=item&item_id=449&Itemid=639

Are your clients carrying out research and development activities behind your back? You might be surprised to discover that many SMEs conduct their research and development activities in total secrecy. That's because they've been scared off by blogs and articles warning about confidentiality and protecting intellectual property. Read more: https://www.essbiztools.com.au/index.php?option=com_zoo&task=item&item_id=447&Itemid=639

How often do you take the time to step back and catch a high-level view of your accountancy practice and the way it's performing? Most of us are too busy doing the things we do day-to-day to meet our clients' tax needs.  We just don't get the time to take that helicopter view as often as we'd like. Read more: https://www.essbiztools.com.au/index.php?option=com_zoo&task=item&item_id=446&Itemid=639

How often do you take the time to step back and catch a high-level view of your accountancy practice and the way it's performing? Most of us are too busy doing the things we do day-to-day to meet our clients' tax needs.  We just don't get the time to take that helicopter view as often as we'd like.