Ask the Accountant is a weekly podcast hosted by Accountants, Aaron Patrick & Johann Goree. During the podcast they discuss various topics revolving around the accounting industry and give business advice and updates.
QuickBooks expert Aaron Patrick issues a candid apology to Xero and outlines five features QuickBooks should adopt. Aaron and Johann also unpack Capium's big updates, call out clickbait in industry media, share frustrations with MTD for ITSA auto-enrolment, and debate whether Apple's new folding phone and watch AI note-taking can truly boost accountants' productivity.
This week on Tech Labs, Aaron Patrick is joined by Charlie Khan (QuickBooks ProAdvisor, Facebook Group) and Simon Williams (Software Advisory Manager, Walton Smith) to unpack the biggest accounting tech stories of the month.Xero has had one of its roughest weeks in memory — a viral influencer post claiming you can "replace your accountant with Xero and AI" sparked a backlash across the profession, followed swiftly by the rollout of DIY company accounts filing straight to end clients, and then an auto-sent management report pack that went out to clients without warning (Aaron owns up to getting some of the details wrong in his own viral post about it).Elsewhere: Capium's new pricing structure gets compared favourably against some of the industry's less generous price rises, the QuickBooks mobile app gets a long-overdue overhaul, Apron payments lands natively inside QuickBooks, and Aaron gives a big shout-out to Sage Embedded Services with Tide as one to watch. Plus: should accountants be offering more consultancy services, and a look at new CIS invoicing tools in TaxSolo.Timestamps below.Tech Labs airs live on the second Wednesday of every month at 12:30 — join us live to get involved in the chat. Subscribe for more from Ask the Accountant, and check out The QuickBooks Chap for weekly QuickBooks content.#AccountingTech #Xero #QuickBooks #MakingTaxDigital #AccountingSoftware #Bookkeeping
In a sudden storm of controversy, Xero has managed to upset its partner community with a series of major blunders. When a paid influencer post suggested replacing accountants with Xero and AI, the industry erupted. This was compounded by the launch of a controversial £120 "micro accounts" filing service and a chaotic rollout of a new 'Analytics Plus' feature, which was enabled by default and sent unauthorised reports to clients.In this episode, Aaron Patrick and Johann Goree unpack the drama. They argue the intense backlash reveals a deeper insecurity within the profession about the value accountants provide. They discuss the critical importance of opt-in consent, the professional risks of unverified automated reports, and why a strong client relationship is the best defense.This is a must-listen for any Xero partner trying to make sense of the events and what they mean for the future of the accountant-software provider relationship. Find out what happened, what Xero could have done differently, and what lessons your firm can learn.00:00 - The Xero Analytics Plus Controversy BeginsThe main topic is introduced: Xero has launched a series of new features and campaigns, causing significant backlash in the accounting community.Mentioned: Xero (Analytics Plus)00:19 - Was it Misinformation?Aaron questions whether he was guilty of spreading misinformation after his social media post about the feature went viral, based on claims it was from accountants' own email addresses.Mentioned: Aaron Patrick00:46 - Johann's Different Experience & Inconsistent RolloutsJohann explains that his experience with the Analytics Plus rollout was different, receiving a clear pop-up, highlighting the inconsistent and confusing nature of the updates.Mentioned: Johann Goree, Xero (Business Snapshot)01:06 - The Problem with Opt-Out by DefaultThe hosts agree that the core issue is features being 'opt-out' rather than 'opt-in', which goes against user expectations and best practices like GDPR, and creates liability for accountants.Mentioned: Sift Analytics, Apple02:00 - The Real Problem: Industry Insecurity & The Call for TransparencyThe conversation shifts to the idea that the intense reaction reveals a fundamental insecurity within the profession, but also highlights the need for transparency from Xero.Mentioned: James Ashford, Mark Wickersham, Xero02:27 - Is Xero Going to "Tell Off" Aaron?Aaron jokes about getting in trouble with Xero for his critical posts, leading to a discussion on how software companies handle public criticism from partners.Mentioned: Dext (formerly Receipt Bank)03:12 - Dext Wants to Be Friends AgainA brief tangent reveals that Dext has been in touch to rebuild the relationship after past disagreements.04:02 - Xero's Missed Opportunity with Its CommunityAaron points out that Xero's greatest asset is its loyal community, and recent marketing moves have alienated them instead of strengthening the relationship.Mentioned: ICB (Institute of Certified Bookkeepers)08:00 - The Week Dominated by XeroThe hosts formally introduce the main topic: the series of controversies surrounding Xero that have dominated social media.08:52 - Xero's Direct Filing Service & Why The Backlash Is So BigThe discussion covers Xero's £120 micro-entity accounts filing service, with Johann arguing the backlash is significant due to Xero's large and historically loyal follower base.10:18 - The Three Big Xero MistakesThe hosts outline the three core issues: the social media influencer campaign, the new "micro accounts" service, and the broken "auto reporting" feature.Mentioned: Xero, QuickBooks Live
The MTD Watch Series returns for a crucial debrief on the very first live MTD for ITSA pilot quarter. With submissions colliding with summer holidays, how did accountants and their clients actually cope?This episode is for any accountant or bookkeeper navigating the MTD transition. Join hosts Aaron Patrick, Suzannah Whelan, and Amy Hancock as they share their personal experiences and dive into a new industry survey where over 75% of respondents called MTD a "bad idea." They discuss what's actually working in practice: from segmenting clients (DIY to "shoebox") and setting clean-up fees, to the software workflows that get the job done.The team also gets tactical on policy, debating whether MTD thresholds should be scrapped and arguing against deadline extensions that could harm real-time benefits. You'll learn how to pre-empt admin pitfalls, tighten client communications, and structure an “MTD-first” onboarding plan.Listen now to get a real-world perspective on where the profession stands and what it all means for the future of digital tax.
We're celebrating 200 episodes by looking at the future of AI and security in the accounting profession. Aaron and Johann are joined by special guests Amy Hancock, Tim Wood, and Charlie to break down the biggest tech news, starting with GOV.UK's long-awaited adoption of passkeys and how it can make your client interactions faster and more secure.They also discuss the surprising new device from Plaud—smart earbuds designed to capture meetings and act as an interface to your entire knowledge base—and explore Claude's new built-in browser and how it stacks up against ChatGPT. Reflecting on the journey to 200 episodes, the team shares insights on consistency, content creation, and what's next for the podcast network, including the return of 'Being an Accountant to Boss'.This episode is for any accountant looking to stay ahead of the technology curve and learn from the highs and lows of building a successful podcast.
A major milestone is here: our 200th weekly episode is next week. In this episode, Aaron returns from a busy week of system improvements, while Johann shares highlights from hosting visitors at the Edinburgh Fringe and the Royal Military Tattoo. We take stock of our journey—nearly 400 shows across the network and over 1,200 videos on YouTube—and officially invite you, our community, to take part in the celebration.You'll learn exactly how to send us a short voice note with your favourite moments, what the show means to you, or a message for the hosts. Submit via WhatsApp, Instagram, or LinkedIn direct messages, and we'll feature selected clips in our Bank Holiday special. Whether you've been with us since the beginning or just found the show, we want your voice in episode 200.Tune in now for the details and get involved in Ask the Accountant history—send your voice note today.
Frustrated by unresponsive clients and admin bottlenecks? This episode covers real-world client management and practical AI. Learn how to handle "nightmare clients" who delay information, and discover how to use tools like Claude and Lovable to automate the boring stuff, freeing up your team for high-value work.
This episode covers it all: How one firm used intensive, scenario-based training to level up their team, why MTD non-compliance represents a £150M opportunity for accountants, and the critical GDPR mistake you could be making when using AI tools like ChatGPT in your practice.
Join Aaron and the panel live on the 2nd Wednesday of every month at 12:30, for a fully interactive session covering the latest news and updates from QuickBooks, Xero, Sage and more.A space for accountants, bookkeepers and business owners to stay on top of everything happening across the accounting tech world, all in one place.Have a question you'd like to ask? Join us live and ask away!Brought to you by the Ask the Accountant Podcast Network: https://linktr.ee/asktheaccountant#TECHLABS #ACCOUNTING #BOOKKEEPING #QUICKBOOKS #XERO #SAGE
In this ‘We Have Cool Friends' special episode, we're joined by Jordan Vickery, co-founder of Vinyl, director at Journey, and one of the most recognisable faces in the accounting technology community.From being one of the early co-founders at Pixie to helping over 60 software vendors grow through Journey, Jordan has spent years at the heart of accounting tech. Now, with Vinyl, he's tackling one of the biggest opportunities AI has created for accountants: turning meetings into meaningful business intelligence.We dive into:
In this ‘We Have Cool Friends' special episode, we're joined by Ash Hall, Interim Head of Marketing at TaxCalc & Engager, former Head of Product at Engager, and one of the people helping shape the future of accounting technology.Ash's journey is anything but conventional. Starting as an accounting apprentice at Crunch Accounting, he made the leap into accounting software, working with AccountancyManager, Nomi, Engager and now TaxCalc. Along the way, he's helped develop products, build brands, organise industry-leading events, and become one of the most respected voices behind the scenes in accounting tech.We dive into:
In this ‘We Have Cool Friends' special episode, we're joined by the one and only Andy Wainwright, founder of Wainwrights Accountants, co-founder of Engager, and one of the most respected innovators in the accounting technology space.Recorded in a location that means a lot to the Ask the Accountant story, Andy takes us right back to where it all began. From accidentally falling into accountancy, building a software solution that would go on to transform how firms manage compliance and communication, growing from just 80 clients to over 1,800, this is a fascinating look behind the scenes of one of the industry's biggest success stories.We dive into:
Jon Goodwin joins Aaron Patrick from the Ask the Accountant Podcast Network on the Ask the Accountant Pitstop Podcast, live from Accountex London 2026. They discuss Jon's first experience attending Accountex, the conversations that stood out, the challenges and opportunities facing modern finance teams, and how technology is changing the way business leaders access and use information.Jon also shares the story behind Stratavor, a decision intelligence platform designed for CEOs, CFOs, and executive teams. They explore how organisations can move beyond fragmented spreadsheets and manual reporting by unifying financial, commercial, and operational data into a single source of strategic insight.The conversation covers the importance of understanding the full business picture, from P&L performance and cash flow to customer trends, operational metrics, and forward-looking indicators powered by AI-driven analysis. Jon explains why timely, decision-ready insight is becoming essential for leadership teams looking to improve governance, drive performance, and make faster, better-informed decisions.An engaging discussion packed with practical insights for finance leaders, accountants, advisors, business owners, and anyone interested in the future of business intelligence and strategic decision-making.
Join Aaron and Johann, experienced accountants and entrepreneurs, weekly on Ask the Accountant, where they discuss various topics revolving around the accounting industry, sharing their knowledge, opinions, news and updates.Every Monday from 8:30 am.Want to find out more:https://lnkd.in/eqkSvvAk#Accounting #Podcast #Bookkeeping
Jennifer Burnett joins Amy Hancock from the Ask the Accountant Podcast Network on the Ask the Accountant Pitstop Podcast, live from Accountex London 2026. They discuss starting an accounting practice from scratch, building confidence as a new business owner, choosing the right technology stack, and how modern software is helping accountants deliver a better experience for clients.Jennifer also shares her experience attending Accountex for the first time, navigating the event as a deaf accountant, the importance of accessibility within the profession, and why jargon-free advice helps build stronger client relationships.A warm and insightful conversation packed with practical takeaways for accountants, bookkeepers, practice owners, and anyone starting their own journey in the profession.
Kshitij “Kenny” Jain from Mindspace Outsourcing and Laura Lee from Laura Lee Bookkeeping join Aaron Patrick on the Ask the Accountant Pitstop Podcast, live from Accountex London 2026. They discuss how outsourcing can help firms scale with confidence, the importance of building trusted long-term partnerships, preparing for Making Tax Digital, and how AI is improving efficiency and quality control across the accounting profession.They also share insights on practice growth, leveraging technology, networking at industry events, and why accountants and bookkeepers should embrace innovation while maintaining the expertise and personal relationships that clients value.A practical and engaging conversation packed with insights for accountants, bookkeepers, and firm owners looking to grow their businesses and make the most of outsourcing and technology.Mindspace provides reliable outsourcing services for accountants and bookkeepers, specialising in bookkeeping, payroll, and tax preparation. If you're looking to scale your firm, improve efficiency, or free up more time for advisory work, be sure to check them out.
Join Aaron and Johann, experienced accountants and entrepreneurs, weekly on Ask the Accountant, where they discuss various topics revolving around the accounting industry, sharing their knowledge, opinions, news and updates.Every Monday from 8:30 am.Want to find out more:https://lnkd.in/eqkSvvAk#Accounting #Podcast #Bookkeeping
Zoe Whitman joins Amy Hancock from the Ask the Accountant Podcast Network on the Ask the Accountant Pitstop Podcast, live from Accountex London 2026. They discuss the future of accounting education, developing the next generation of accountants and bookkeepers, the impact of AI on training and advisory services, and the growing skills gap facing the profession.Zoe also shares insights into Hey Monica, her AI-powered work experience platform, exploring how firms can better prepare trainees for real-world client work, communication, and advisory roles in an increasingly automated world.A thought-provoking conversation packed with practical insights for accountants, bookkeepers, practice owners, and anyone interested in the future of the profession.
Tom Bickle and Robyn Milstead from Accountants Therapy join Aaron Patrick on the Ask the Accountant Pitstop Podcast, live from Accountex London 2026. They discuss building one of the accounting profession's fastest-growing communities, tackling practitioner isolation, fostering collaboration over competition, and creating a supportive space where accountants and bookkeepers can share challenges, ideas, and solutions.They also explore Making Tax Digital, working with HMRC and professional bodies, the value of industry events, and why community-driven feedback is helping shape the future of the profession.An insightful and entertaining conversation packed with practical advice for accountants, bookkeepers, and firm owners looking to build stronger businesses and stronger professional networks.
Join Aaron and Johann, experienced accountants and entrepreneurs, weekly on Ask the Accountant, where they discuss various topics revolving around the accounting industry, sharing their knowledge, opinions, news and updates.Every Monday from 8:30 am.Want to find out more:https://linktr.ee/asktheaccountant#Accounting #Podcast #Bookkeeping
Paula Veysey Smith from Empower Accounting and Empower Mentoring joins Tim Chilestone on the Ask the Accountant Pitstop Podcast, live from Accountex London 2026. They discuss the evolution of the bookkeeping profession, building stronger client relationships, the value of networking and industry events, mentoring the next generation of bookkeepers, and how technology and AI are helping firms deliver more value to clients.Paula also shares insights on practice growth, embracing new systems and workflows, and why modern bookkeepers should be seen as trusted business partners rather than just number crunchers.A fun and insightful conversation packed with practical takeaways for bookkeepers, accountants, and firm owners looking to grow their businesses and better support their clients.
Dan Cattermole, co-founder of Client Window, joins Aaron on the Ask the Accountant Pitstop Podcast, live from Accountex London 2026. They discuss how accounting firms can meet clients where they already communicate, the growing role of WhatsApp in practice workflows, integrating communication tools with the wider tech stack, and the challenges of driving technology adoption within firms.They also explore the future of AI, automation, client communication, and why accounting firms need connected systems rather than isolated apps to stay competitive in a rapidly evolving industry.A practical and insightful conversation packed with takeaways for accountants, bookkeepers, and firm owners looking to improve client experience, efficiency, and communication.
Join Aaron and Johann, experienced accountants and entrepreneurs, weekly on Ask the Accountant, where they discuss various topics revolving around the accounting industry, sharing their knowledge, opinions, news and updates.Every Monday from 8:30 am.Want to find out more:https://linktr.ee/asktheaccountant#Accounting #Podcast #Bookkeeping
Francesca McClory joins Aaron on the Ask the Accountant Pitstop Podcast, live from Accountex London 2026. They discuss building a modern accounting firm, the power of personal branding, content creation, podcasting, leadership, community, and why authenticity and vulnerability can be a competitive advantage in business.Francesca shares her journey growing Future Cloud Accounting, navigating business change, building a strong team culture, embracing new technology, and helping accountants think beyond compliance to create profitable, sustainable businesses.A relaxed and inspiring conversation packed with practical takeaways for accountants, bookkeepers, firm owners, and anyone looking to grow their business and personal brand.
Elspeth Cordray from A2X Accounting joins Tim on the Ask the Accountant Pitstop Podcast, live from Accountex London 2026. They discuss networking at industry events, e-commerce bookkeeping, accounting technology, the opportunities and risks of AI, and why software vendors should focus on solving real problems for accountants and bookkeepers.A relaxed and insightful conversation packed with practical takeaways for accounting professionals and tech enthusiasts alike.
Join Aaron and Johann, experienced accountants and entrepreneurs, weekly on Ask the Accountant, where they discuss various topics revolving around the accounting industry, sharing their knowledge, opinions, news and updates.Every Monday from 8:30 am.Want to find out more:https://linktr.ee/asktheaccountant#Accounting #Podcast #Bookkeeping
Roshni Hainsworth from NOW: Pensions joins the Ask the Accountant Pitstop Podcast, live from Accountex London 2026. They discuss the gender pensions gap, diversity in the accounting profession, making the most of industry events, and how AI can help uncover insights while creating new opportunities for underrepresented groups.A thought-provoking conversation packed with practical insights for accountants, employers, and anyone interested in the future of work, pensions, and inclusion.
Dr Ffion Hargood and Dr Shamaas Mohamed join the Ask the Accountant Pitstop Podcast, live from Accountex London 2026. They discuss tackling burnout in the accounting profession, the importance of wellbeing, building supportive communities, attracting and retaining talent, and how firms can separate AI hype from genuine productivity gains.A thoughtful and engaging conversation packed with insights for accountants, bookkeepers, and firm leaders looking to create healthier, more sustainable workplaces.
Join Aaron and Johann, experienced accountants and entrepreneurs, weekly on Ask the Accountant, where they discuss various topics revolving around the accounting industry, sharing their knowledge, opinions, news and updates.Every Monday from 8:30 am.Want to find out more:https://linktr.ee/asktheaccountant#Accounting #Podcast #Bookkeeping
One year after the headline-making acquisition of Engager by TaxCalc, we catch up with Nick Moss and Johann Goree at Accountex 2026 to find out what has happened since the deal that got the accounting profession talking.In this special Accountant's Pitstop episode, we discuss:✅ How the first 365 days have gone since the acquisition✅ Growth from 800 to 2,000+ firms using Engager✅ The impact of combining TaxCalc's compliance expertise with Engager's practice management platform✅ New integrations, including WorkHero document management✅ The launch of Engager's new Sales Pipeline tool✅ Why customer support, training, and community remain central to the strategy✅ What accountants can expect from the next phase of TaxCalc & Engager's roadmapPlus, hear why the team believes this acquisition has avoided the pitfalls often seen in software mergers and how they're building towards a fully integrated end-to-end practice management ecosystem.
Amy Hancock joins her Bean Counter to Boss co-host on the Ask the Accountant Pitstop Podcast, live from Accountex London 2026. They discuss the realities of running an accounting practice, networking at industry events, software integrations, audit specialisms, and how AI tools like Microsoft Copilot are changing the way accountants work.A relaxed and insightful conversation packed with practical takeaways for accountants, bookkeepers, and firm owners.Don't forget to check out all our other content such as our 'Cool Friends', 'Pitstop Podcasts' and more!https://linktr.ee/asktheaccountant#Accountex2026 #AskTheAccountant #BeanCounterToBoss #Accounting #Audit #AIinAccounting #Bookkeeping #MicrosoftCopilot✨ Want to turn long-form content into shorts? Try Opus clip: https://www.opus.pro/?via=5f284b
Join Aaron and Johann, experienced accountants and entrepreneurs, weekly on Ask the Accountant, where they discuss various topics revolving around the accounting industry, sharing their knowledge, opinions, news and updates.Every Monday from 8:30 am.Want to find out more:https://linktr.ee/asktheaccountant#Accounting #Podcast #Bookkeeping
Introducing Allica Bank – the award-winning bank built specifically for established SMEs
Join Aaron and Johann, experienced accountants and entrepreneurs, weekly on Ask the Accountant, where they discuss various topics revolving around the accounting industry, sharing their knowledge, opinions, news and updates.Every Monday from 8:30 am.Want to find out more:https://linktr.ee/asktheaccountant#Accounting #Podcast #Bookkeeping
Introducing eppiqTimer – built for accountants using any Practice Management software (yes, even the old clunky ones
Join Aaron and Johann, experienced accountants and entrepreneurs, weekly on Ask the Accountant, where they discuss various topics revolving around the accounting industry, sharing their knowledge, opinions, news and updates.Every Monday from 8:30 am.Want to find out more:https://linktr.ee/asktheaccountant#Accounting #Podcast #Bookkeeping
Join Aaron and Johann, experienced accountants and entrepreneurs, weekly on Ask the Accountant, where they discuss various topics revolving around the accounting industry, sharing their knowledge, opinions, news and updates.Every Monday from 8:30 am.Want to find out more:https://linktr.ee/asktheaccountant#Accounting #Podcast #Bookkeeping
In this ‘We Have Cool Friends' guest special episode, we're joined by the brilliant Phil Hobden, Head of New Customer Advocacy at Sage
We mixed things up for the Bank Holiday special, with Amy & Gary stepping in to join Aaron while Johann is away!Join Aaron and Johann, experienced accountants and entrepreneurs, weekly on Ask the Accountant, where they discuss various topics revolving around the accounting industry, sharing their knowledge, opinions, news and updates.Every Monday from 8:30 am.Want to find out more:https://linktr.ee/asktheaccountant#Accounting #Podcast #Bookkeeping
Join Aaron and Johann, experienced accountants and entrepreneurs, weekly on Ask the Accountant, where they discuss various topics revolving around the accounting industry, sharing their knowledge, opinions, news and updates.Every Monday from 8:30 am.Want to find out more:https://linktr.ee/asktheaccountant#Accounting #Podcast #Bookkeeping
Join Aaron and Johann, experienced accountants and entrepreneurs, weekly on Ask the Accountant, where they discuss various topics revolving around the accounting industry, sharing their knowledge, opinions, news and updates.Every Monday from 8:30 am.Want to find out more:https://linktr.ee/asktheaccountant
Join Aaron and Johann, experienced accountants and entrepreneurs, weekly on Ask the Accountant, where they discuss various topics revolving around the accounting industry, sharing their knowledge, opinions, news and updates.Every Monday from 8:30 am.Want to find out more:https://linktr.ee/asktheaccountant
Welcome to the MTD Watch Series - the podcast series dedicated to everything Making Tax Digital.Brought to you by the Ask the Accountant Podcast Network!Hosted by Aaron Patrick, Amy Hancock, and Suzannah Whelan, this weekly show dives deep into the most important updates, challenges, and opportunities surrounding MTD for ITSA and beyond.From compliance countdowns to digital workflows, from pricing pitfalls to tech that works, we're here to keep accountants, bookkeepers, and business owners fully in the loop.
In this spontaneous pilot episode, Tim and Ami turn a throwaway idea into a refreshingly honest bookkeeping podcast. They want to break down what new bookkeepers really need on day one, cutting through the noise on software, setup, and costly mistakes, all while mixing optimism with straight-talking reality. Expect practical advice, industry truths, and a candid look at starting (and surviving) your own bookkeeping practice.Don't forget to check out all our other content such as our 'Cool Friends', 'Pitstop Podcasts' and more!https://linktr.ee/asktheaccountant#Accountant #Podcast #Bookkeeper✨ Want to turn long-form content into shorts? Try Opus clip: https://www.opus.pro/?via=5f284b
In this week's episode of Ask the Accountant, Aaron and Tim join us live from FAB 2026, sharing practical insights, industry trends, and real conversations from the heart of the event. Expect straight-talking advice and takeaways you can actually use in your firm or business.This episode also features a short ad roll from Eppiq Timer, a smarter way to track time without the hassle. It works alongside all practice management software (even the older, clunky ones), requires no integrations, and runs completely hands-free — no start/stop timers or switching between clients. By removing manual time tracking, it helps firms save time, improve accuracy, and ultimately increase profitability.Want to learn more?
Join us for this episode of the Making Tax Digital Watch Series, where our hosts, Aaron Patrick, Suzannah Whelan and Amy Hancock dive into the real-world challenges of MTD.With deadlines fast approaching, we discuss how accountants are preparing their clients, choosing the right software, and adapting processes to stay compliant, all whilst navigating uncertainty around final declarations and evolving tools.If you're an accountant, bookkeeper, or business owner trying to get ahead of MTD, this is a must-watch conversation packed with practical insights and honest experiences.
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