CPA Trendlines Podcasts

PE-backed firms are luring top performers with faster promotions, equity stakes, and career paths that traditional firms rarely offer.Accounting InfluencersWith Rob BrownPrivate equity's influence on the accounting profession is shaking up more than firm valuations — it is rewriting the rules for attracting and retaining talent. A staggering 70% of top performers at traditional firms say they would move to a PE-backed competitor right now if given the chance, according to new industry insights. MORE Accounting Influencers with Rob Brown And it's not just about bigger paychecks. Private equity firms have zeroed in on what motivates high performers — opportunity, impact, and accelerated growth — and are building career models to match.

In CAS, winning the client is just the first step—success depends on what happens next.It's Not Just the NumbersWith Penny Breslin and Damien GreatheadFor CPA TrendlinesFor many accounting firm owners, winning a new client is a victory. But according to It's Not Just the Numbers podcast hosts Penny Breslin and Damien Greathead, that's only the beginning. The real success lies in what happens next: the onboarding process. MORE Penny Breslin and Damien Greathead MORE Advisory & Consulting BUY "It's Not Just the Numbers" “Too many firms have no clue what actually happens when a client walks in the door,” says Breslin. “They've sold the service, but they haven't defined the first experience their client will have—or the role their team will play in delivering it.”

The immersive experience transforms recruiting from a guessing game into a hands-on, culture-rich audition.Gear Up for GrowthWith Jean CaragherFor CPA Trendlines In the latest episode of Gear Up for Growth, powered by CPA Trendlines, Jean Caragher, president of Capstone Marketing, spoke with co-creators of JLK Rosenberger LLP's innovative student recruitment program, Audit 500, which combines real-world experience with relationship-building to deliver extraordinary results – and some unexpected emotional impact.  Gear Up for Growth spotlights the best strategies for smart and efficient growth in today's competitive landscape. More Gear Up for Growth here. More Jean Caragher here | Get her best-selling handbook, The 90-Day Marketing Plan for CPA Firms, here   More Gear Up for Growth More CPA Trendlines videos and podcasts here Originally created to address a gap between academic theory and audit practice, the Audit 500 is a fast-paced, three-day simulation that gives accounting students a hands-on experience of what it's like to be an auditor. From testing cash and fixed assets to engaging with a mock CFO, participants work side-by-side with the firm's staff, simulating the dynamics of a true engagement team. “We get to evaluate students in a much more meaningful way than a traditional interview ever could,” said Ani Zadorian, partner at JLK Rosenberger and co-creator of the program. “At the same time, they get to see our culture and decide if they see themselves growing here."

Building a firm should provide time, money, and freedom. The Concierge CPAWith Jackie MeyerFor CPA TrendlinesIn this conversation, Dr. Jackie Meyer, CPA and Reza Hooda, Coach & Mentor to Accountants with The Profitable Accountants Community, discuss the transformative journey of Hooda from a traditional accounting background to modernizing his practice through value pricing and effective client engagement strategies. More Jackie MeyerThey explore the importance of pricing psychology, positioning, and the four pillars of success in building a thriving accounting firm. Reza shares his insights on the challenges faced by accountants and the necessity of niching down to attract the right clients. The discussion also touches on the impact of mentorship and continuous learning in achieving business growth and personal freedom. 

Experts outline the flexible framework that works for a three‑person shop or a 30,000‑employee enterprise.Innovation InsightsWith Donny ShimamotoCenter for Accounting TransformationArtificial intelligence is advancing too quickly for organizations to adopt a “wait-and-see” approach, according to experts on the latest episode of Innovation Insights.Host Donny Shimamoto, CPA.CITP, CGMA, speaks with Jason Pikoos and David Wood, co-authors of the new Generative AI Governance Framework, about how companies can responsibly integrate AI into their operations.MORE Donny Shimamoto“Governance isn't optional,” says Pikoos, former managing partner of client experience for Connor Group. “It's good hygiene for any organization—whether you're a three-person shop or a multinational.”The framework outlines 69 control considerations in areas such as bias risk, human oversight, and process integration. It is not a checklist to be blindly completed, the authors stress, but a flexible guide that organizations can tailor to their needs.

New 1099-K reporting rules mean your eBay, Etsy, or other online sales could land on the IRS's radar—even if you're just cleaning out your garage.Quick Tax TipWith Art WernerCPE TodayIf you've been selling old collectibles, furniture, or other personal items on eBay, you might think of it as a quick way to make cash, not something that belongs on your tax return. But according to tax guru Art Werner, new reporting thresholds for 1099-K forms are changing that, and the IRS could already have your sales data in hand.Click here for more Art Werner“In the past, the threshold for receiving a 1099-K from a payment processor or credit card company was $20,000,” Werner explains in the latest episode of Quick Tax Tip. “If you didn't hit that threshold, you wouldn't get the form, and frankly, no one was looking.”That's no longer the case.

Prioritize belonging over optics.MOVE Like ThisWith Bonnie Buol RuszczykFor CPA TrendlinesIn this episode of MOVE Like This, Bonnie Buol Ruszczyk speaks with Dr. Claire Costin, CPA (University of Portland), and Dr. Stephani Mason, CPA (DePaul University), two professors who are shaping the future of accounting education and research through their commitment to diversity, equity, and inclusion (DEI). Their insights reveal how today's students are rethinking what it means to belong in the profession, and what employers must do to keep up.  MORE MOVE Dr. Costin and Dr. Mason each bring rich, real-world experience to their roles as accounting educators. Dr. Costin's background in nonprofit auditing informs her work at the University of Portland, where she teaches everything from auditing to ethics. Dr. Mason began her career in a Big Four firm and spent many years in financial services before transitioning to academia at DePaul University. While their career paths differ, both have shifted their research to focus on inequity, bias, and intersectionality in the accounting profession. One theme that emerged clearly in their conversation was that today's students care deeply about inclusion, authenticity, and choosing employers who align with their values. 

“CAS gets stronger as tech gets better. The market's expanding, not shrinking.” Big 4 TransparencyBy Dominic Piscopo, CPAFor CPA TrendlinesIn this episode of Big 4 Transparency, Matthew May, former co-founder of Acuity and now CAS Leader at Sorren, pulls back the curtain on one of the most significant private equity-driven rollups in the accounting profession. Speaking with host Dominic Piscopo, May details how Acuity, alongside other firms, became part of a growing national platform backed by DFW Capital, and why he believes Client Accounting Services (CAS) will soon eclipse audit.  MORE Dominic Piscopo MORE Pay & Compensation MORE CAS The seeds of the Sorren platform were planted in a BDO Alliance roundtable where six firms fantasized about joining forces. That vision crystallized when DFW Capital, with a thesis to invest $100M in the space, entered the picture. From there, May and his partners at Acuity ran a rigorous process, engaging investment bankers to evaluate 250 potential paths, leading to 11 indications of interest (IOIs), seven in-person meetings, and five formal offers. The decision to join Sorren wasn't about cashing out - it was about autonomy, cultural fit, and the chance to help shape a future-focused firm from the ground up. 

A proactive framework that includes these four steps can help keep your organization safe.Quick Tech TalkWith Steve YossCPE TodayWhether your organization operates out of a small-town office or a global headquarters, cybersecurity threats are a daily reality. Distributed denial-of-service (DDoS) attacks, malware, ransomware, and even simple human error can have devastating consequences. One misdirected email or compromised executive account can trigger financial penalties, regulatory action, and long-term reputational harm. MORE Steve Yoss here | MORE TECH In this episode of Quick Tech Talks, Steve Yoss warns that these risks are not reserved for large corporations. “We all face a wide variety of concerns,” he explains, “and they're avoidable if we actively take a stronger interest in security procedures.”Yoss draws a powerful connection between cybersecurity protocols and traditional internal control frameworks. In his view, “they are two sides of the same coin.” Strong cybersecurity controls not only protect sensitive data but also reinforce the operational integrity of the entire organization.

Listening, translating, and meeting clients where they are is just as important as adopting the latest tech.The DisruptorsWith Liz FarrMichelle Vilms has a perspective that most small business accountants don't have: she had a front-row seat to the explosive growth of Staples as it grew from 100 stores to a $15 billion corporation. Today, she brings her mastery of operational accounting to her own firm, Vilms Consulting, and the small business clients with whom she works.   CPA TRENDLINES CELEBRATES:The 100th Episode of The Disruptors MORE STREAMING: Dickerson: From Diagnosis to Disruption |Kapilovich: Treat People Like People | Martha Yasso: From Wall Street to Main Street | Jackie Meyer: Tax Plans in 90 Seconds? Believe It | Erica Goode: Build a $200K Firm in 15hrs/Week | Randy Crabtree: Live at the Intersection of Passion & Skill |McClelland and Telka: Women Ready to Rewrite the Rules of Accounting | Jacob Schroeder: AI Won't Replace Accountants—But It Will Reveal Who's Replaceable | Ditching Corporate America: The Bold Story Behind PBS Accounting's Rapid Rise | Jean Zick: Happy Team = Happy Clients | Breslin & Greathead: Be a Client Advocate | Dominic Piscopo: Clear Pay=Bargaining Power | Debbie Kilsheimer: Stop Thinking Small | Vilms' final position at Staples was director of Marketing and Finance, where she worked with the creative people who were putting together catalogs or ads. “They were numbers persons in their specialty, but they weren't accounting numbers people,” she explains. “And so just learning to have empathy and explain it to them in the terms that they needed really brought me back to that corporate experience, is how I landed in operational accounting for our firm.” Today, Vilms uses that same approach with her clients, focusing on understanding her clients' concerns and explaining accounting in familiar terms.

Technology streamlines the process, but strong communication builds the needed relationships.By Rory Henry CFP®, BFA™For CPA TrendlinesResearch shows that 93% of people want estate planning services from their financial advisor but only 22% are actually getting that advice. As detailed in my new book Holistic Guide to Wealth Management for CPAs, estate planning offers practitioners the ability to provide a family office level of care to clients, whether they are business owners, retiring boomers, or next Gen.  MORE Rory Henry and The Holistic Guide to Wealth Management BUY the Holistic Guide to Wealth Management Danny Lohrfink, co-founder and chief product officer of estate planning software Wealth.com, said estate planning has long been an antiquated profession that costs a lot of money, takes a great deal of time, and often delivers an outcome that is too complex for the client/family to understand. “These are the kinds of core problems that technology is meant to solve,” notes Lohrfink, a contributor to my book. “How do you reduce the cost and amount of time spent doing things?”  According to Lohrfink, technology can help practitioners address the varying needs of clients across the net worth spectrum. “The mass affluent folks don't really have a federally taxable estate and want to set up a simple trust without spending $5,000,” he says. “So maybe they're not trying to optimize for taxes, whereas the ultra-high-net-worth clients are. But there's still a need for really good, solid estate planning guidance, and the CPA/advisor can play a fundamental role just like the trust and estate attorney may play a fundamental role.”

Turn disruption into opportunity and lead with confidence.Accounting InfluencersWith Rob BrownAs disruption reshapes the accounting profession, a harsh reality is emerging: the vast majority of firms are not keeping pace. In this episode of Accounting Influencers, host Rob Brown warns that more than 70% of accountants globally are unprepared for the seismic changes sweeping through the industry, from AI and automation to evolving client expectations and a volatile talent marketplace.“Disruption isn't coming. It's already here,” Brown says. “Those who don't make the shift in time are going to get left behind—plain and simple.” MORE Accounting Influencers with Rob Brown The show explores how outdated processes, resistance to change, and lagging leadership development are putting firms at risk. Leaders can no longer afford to rely solely on technical skills. Today's environment demands influence, adaptability, and a willingness to tackle uncomfortable change head-on.

The debut episode of It's Not Just the Numbers reveals why half-built CAS divisions fail—and what to do instead.It's Not Just the NumbersWith Penny Breslin and Damien GreatheadIn the inaugural episode of It's Not Just the Numbers, hosts Penny Breslin and Damien Greathead deliver a candid, experience-driven conversation aimed at accounting and bookkeeping firm owners seeking to move beyond compliance work and grow successful Client Accounting and Advisory Services (CAS) practices. MORE Penny Breslin and Damien Greathead MORE Advisory & Consulting BUY "It's Not Just the Numbers" The duo, who have worked together for over two decades, including hosting one of the first CAS workshops in 2013, are well-known voices in the evolution of cloud-based accounting and outsourced advisory services. Their show—named after their 2019 book—digs into the practical, strategic, and often messy realities of transitioning to advisory work. And for Breslin and Greathead, the key message is clear: building a sustainable CAS practice starts with intentionality.

 The longtime leader of Marcum LLP, now Senior Advisor at CBIZ, says the future belongs to those who build, evolve—and admit their mistakes. Gear Up for GrowthWith Jean CaragherFor CPA TrendlinesIn this episode of Gear Up for Growth, host Jean Caragher sits down with Jeffrey Weiner, former CEO and Chairman of Marcum LLP and current Senior Advisor at CBIZ. Weiner shares candid insights from his 40-year leadership journey, explaining how a Long Island accounting firm with seven employees and $300,000 in revenue became a $1.3 billion national powerhouse—before merging with CBIZ.  Gear Up for Growth spotlights the best strategies for smart and efficient growth in today's competitive landscape. More Gear Up for Growth here. More Jean Caragher here | Get her best-selling handbook, The 90-Day Marketing Plan for CPA Firms, here | More Gear Up for Growth More CPA Trendlines videos and podcasts here “Back in 1981, I didn't even know what $1.3 billion was,” Weiner quips. “But I always knew I wanted to build something.”Over the decades, Weiner redefined what it meant to lead in public accounting, emphasizing trust, talent, and strategic growth. Rather than micromanaging, he viewed his role as “architect,” guiding the firm's culture, empowering top-tier professionals, and letting his team do what they did best. “If you're the smartest person in the room, you're in the wrong room,” he said.

The path to influence in accounting starts with finding your voice—and sharing it on stage. Accounting ARCWith Liz Mason and Donny Shimamoto Center for Accounting TransformationForget the clichés of accountants buried in spreadsheets. Today's most innovative CPAs are more likely to be found keynoting tech conferences, moderating panels on firm transformation, or networking at rooftop receptions in Toronto, Tokyo, or Denver.In this episode of Accounting ARC, hosts Donny Shimamoto, CPA.CITP, CGMA, and Liz Mason, CPA, peel back the curtain on how speaking and travel are helping redefine the accounting profession.  MORE Accounting ARC: Students Challenge Accounting's Traditional Career Path | True Grit: Recognizing Struggles That Shape Our Successes | More Admins, Fewer Students, No Plan | What Career Advice Gets Wrong for Gen Z - And How to Fix It |Your Identity is Not a Liability | What Happens in Vegas… Gets Reported on a Tax Return | Burnout, Be Gone: Accounting Needs a Boundary Breakthrough | The Ultimate Business Hack You're Probably Ignoring | Resilience, Real Talk, and the Road to Mental Wellness | Blockchain Could Still Reshape Accounting | What Gen Z Wants from Business | Firm Differentiation Depends Upon Client Service “I used to think the only reason CPAs traveled was for audits,” says Shimamoto, founder and managing director of IntrapriseTechKnowlogies LLC and founder and inspiration architect for the Center for Accounting Transformation. “Now, speaking has taken me to 35 states and across the globe.” 

New tax proposal offers four years of relief for qualified workers, starting retroactively in 2025.Quick Tax TipWith Art WernerCPE TodayDuring his campaign rallies, Donald Trump made repeated promises to eliminate taxes on overtime pay, and that promise has now been incorporated into legislative language. According to tax expert Art Werner, the proposed tax break is indeed included in the new tax bill, and it's one of the few provisions that start early and end early.Click here for more Art Werner“This is one of the parts of the bill that actually sunsets,” said Werner in a recent episode of Quick Tax Tip. “It goes from 2025 to 2028, unlike the rest of the bill, which largely begins in 2026.”The provision eliminates federal tax on qualified overtime compensation, but don't get too excited just yet. The deduction only applies under very specific conditions.

"I had to learn to be a political animal."Big 4 TransparencyBy Dominic Piscopo, CPAFor CPA TrendlinesIn a candid conversation on the Big 4 Transparency show, former CohnReznick CEO Frank Longobardi offers a sweeping view of the accounting industry's transformation, advocating for private equity investment as a necessary catalyst for modernization. Speaking with host Dominic Piscopo, Longobardi explains how traditional partnership structures have often hindered strategic decision-making, especially in large firms where a board of ten or more can slow progress. “You've got people on the board at different ages, different objectives, and different disciplines,” he says. “A smaller circle with clear strategic goals allows partners to do what they do best: serve clients and lead people.”  MORE Dominic Piscopo MORE Pay & Compensation Longobardi also highlights how the profession's talent model is out of step with the expectations of today's workforce. “You hire a top student and tell them they'll make partner in 16 years,” he notes. “Meanwhile, their friends in finance are seeing returns now—when they're raising kids and buying houses.” Private equity, Longobardi argues, can address this by offering earlier equity opportunities and aligning incentives across generations. “We need to make accounting a profession of choice again,” he says, pointing to declining enrollment in accounting programs and the deterrent of the fifth-year requirement for CPA licensure. 

Even small improvements to internal controls can reduce the average $700,000 loss from financial statement fraud.Quick Tech TalkWith Steve YossCPE TodayFraud isn't just a nuisance—it's a multimillion-dollar drain on businesses every year. According to the Association of Certified Fraud Examiners (ACFE), organizations lose an estimated 5% of their annual revenue to fraud. That amounts to a staggering $4.7 trillion globally, based on the 2022 Report to the Nations. MORE Steve Yoss here MORE TECH In the latest episode of Quick Tech Talk, technology educator and CPA Steve Yoss breaks down why fraud persists—and what financial professionals can do to stop it. From asset misappropriation to corruption to financial statement fraud, Yoss explains the common red flags, the steep costs, and how improving your organization's internal controls can yield major savings and a more ethical workplace culture.

Attention CPAs and accounting pros! Are you ready to take your practice to the next level? Then it's time to upgrade to CPA Trendlines PRO Membership—your all-access pass to premium insights, strategies, and tools designed just for YOU!See today 's best PRO  offers here.Get exclusive access – Over 10,000 articles, tools, and expert guidance—keeping you ahead of the curve in practice management, growth, and industry trends.Enjoy VIP perks – Be the first to get new content, receive special handling on orders, and unlock priority concierge service just for PRO members.Save big– In the CPA Trendlines Shop, plus deep discounts on membership plans!And here's a bonus: New PRO members receive welcome gifts worth over $300!Stay informed – With exclusive member surveys, studies, and expert insights that help grow your firm and boost your success!More support, more value, more power for your practice!Upgrade today at CPA Trendlines and start maximizing your potential!

Legacy firms may value tenure, but firms of the future prioritize impact, innovation, and client fit. The DisruptorsWith Liz FarrFor most CPAs, the road to partner is long and narrow—often paved with decades of grueling hours and delayed ownership. But Aaron Dickerson, founder of Dickerson CPA in Austin, Texas, had no interest in waiting 20 years to earn a seat at the table. CPA TRENDLINES CELEBRATES: The 100th Episode of The Disruptors MORE STREAMING: Kapilovich: Treat People Like People | Martha Yasso: From Wall Street to Main Street | Jackie Meyer: Tax Plans in 90 Seconds? Believe It | Erica Goode: Build a $200K Firm in 15hrs/Week | Randy Crabtree: Live at the Intersection of Passion & Skill |McClelland and Telka: Women Ready to Rewrite the Rules of Accounting | Jacob Schroeder: AI Won't Replace Accountants—But It Will Reveal Who's Replaceable | Ditching Corporate America: The Bold Story Behind PBS Accounting's Rapid Rise | Jean Zick: Happy Team = Happy Clients | Breslin & Greathead: Be a Client Advocate | Dominic Piscopo: Clear Pay=Bargaining Power | Debbie Kilsheimer: Stop Thinking Small | “I saw partners who had been there for two decades and were still paying for their equity,” Dickerson recalls of his time at a legacy firm in Ohio. “It just didn't make sense.”

Only firms embracing culture, collaboration, and client impact will survive the next era. By Rory Henry CFP®, BFA™For CPA TrendlinesThe traditional CPA firm model is at a major crossroads. With an aging leadership base, evolving client expectations, and growing private equity interest, firms must rethink how they operate—or risk falling behind.  MORE Rory Henry and The Holistic Guide to Wealth Management BUY the Holistic Guide to Wealth Management “Many firms are still stuck in outdated models centered around hours and billables,” observes Randy Crabtree, CPA, founder of Tri-Merit Specialty Tax Professionals, during a recent panel discussion for contributors to my new book Holistic Guide to Wealth Management. Crabtree says he's avoided time tracking for most of his career because he believes it distracts from real value delivery. “We can do things better and more efficiently,” says Crabtree. He argues that if working more efficiently means it takes less time to get the work done, then we shouldn't be paid less money.  Like Crabtree, fellow panelist, Susan Bryant, CPA, CTC, founder of Unboxed Advisors, stresses that compliance work — while still important— can no longer be the centerpiece of a thriving firm.

Private equity is redefining influence, and only agile, change-ready professionals will survive.Accounting InfluencersWith Rob BrownIn the next 36 months or so, nearly half of accounting leaders could find themselves labeled as legacy problems. That's the stark prediction in the latest episode of Accounting Influencers, where host Rob Brown unpacks how private equity is fundamentally reshaping the rules of leadership, authority, and influence in the profession. MORE Accounting Influencers with Rob Brown As private equity (PE) firms continue to invest heavily in accounting, they're accelerating transformation—and not everyone is keeping up. “This is not just about writing big checks,” says Brown. “It's a power shift that rewards adaptability, speed, and strategic boldness over patience and technical seniority.”

Attention CPAs and accounting pros! Are you ready to take your practice to the next level? Then it's time to upgrade to CPA Trendlines PRO Membership—your all-access pass to premium insights, strategies, and tools designed just for YOU! Get exclusive access to over 7,000 articles, tools, and expert analyses—keeping you ahead of the curve in practice management, growth, and industry trends! Enjoy VIP perks! Be the first to get new content, receive special handling on orders, and unlock priority concierge service just for PRO members! Save BIG! Get 20% off in the CPA Trendlines Shop, plus deep discounts on membership plans! And here's a bonus: New PRO members receive welcome gifts worth over $300! Stay informed with exclusive member surveys, studies, and expert insights that help grow your firm and boost your success! More support, more value, more power for your practice! Upgrade today at CPA Trendlines and start maximizing your potential!

Differentiation, confidence, and connection can transform firms.Capstone ConversationsBy Jean CaragherFor CPA TrendlinesBonnie Buol Ruszczyk, founder of BBR Companies and one of the accounting profession's most respected marketing strategists, joined Jean Caragher for a compelling episode of Capstone Conversations—this time as a newly inducted member of the Association for Accounting Marketing Hall of Fame.Follow Jean Caragher on CPA Trendlines here. | Get her best-selling handbook, The 90-Day Marketing Plan for CPA Firms, here | Catch Jean Caragher's other show, Gear Up for Growth, here. | And browse all the shows in the CPA Trendlines broadcast network here Ruszczyk, who was also named AAM's Volunteer of the Year in 2014 and has made Accounting Today's Top 100 and CPA Practice Advisor's Most Powerful Women in Accounting lists, spoke candidly about how far marketing has come in accounting—and how far it still needs to go.“Accounting marketers bring a perspective to firm strategy that many partners don't have,” she says. “It's not just about brochures and branding—it's about growth strategy, mergers, business development, and client alignment.”Despite industry progress, Ruszczyk says many firms still struggle to stand out in a crowded market. “Everyone says, ‘our people are great,' but that's just noise,” she says. “What clients care about is: what can you do for me?”

Emerging professionals and a Gen X CFO explore mentorship, curiosity, and why success no longer wears a suit and tie.Accounting ARCWith Arpan Grewal and Chayton FarleeCenter for Accounting TransformationWhen you think of accounting, do you picture spreadsheets and number crunchers locked in back offices? Think again.In a special student-led edition of the Accounting ARC podcast, high school senior and Center for Accounting Transformation intern Arpan Grewal joins college accounting student Chayton Farlee and seasoned professional Nealy Wheat, CAE, SPHR, for an energetic and thoughtful conversation about the changing face of accounting—and what it means to succeed today. MORE Accounting ARC: True Grit: Recognizing Struggles That Shape Our Successes | More Admins, Fewer Students, No Plan | What Career Advice Gets Wrong for Gen Z - And How to Fix It |Your Identity is Not a Liability | What Happens in Vegas… Gets Reported on a Tax Return | Burnout, Be Gone: Accounting Needs a Boundary Breakthrough | The Ultimate Business Hack You're Probably Ignoring | Resilience, Real Talk, and the Road to Mental Wellness | Blockchain Could Still Reshape Accounting | What Gen Z Wants from Business | Firm Differentiation Depends Upon Client Service Wheat, who serves as chief financial and administrative officer of the American Society for Nondestructive Testing (ASNT), shares hard-won career wisdom and personal stories to inspire the next generation. But this isn't your typical “how I made it” narrative. Instead, listeners are treated to an open dialogue about failure, growth, curiosity, and the power of building your network early.“Success is not a straight line,” Wheat says. “It's a lattice of opportunities, setbacks, and mentors.”

SALT changes may not be as sweet as clients think.Quick Tax TipWith Art WernerCPE TodayTax guru Art Werner doesn't pull punches—and when it comes to the state and local tax (SALT) deduction limits in the proposed “Big Beautiful Bill,” he's sounding the alarm for tax pros across the country.“This was the one area under the Tax Cuts and Jobs Act that had the most screaming going on,” Werner says, referencing the uproar he witnessed during live lectures in high-tax states like New York and California. “They were really angry.”Click here for more Art WernerWhile early rumors suggested the SALT cap might rise dramatically—perhaps even to $40,000—the current proposal sets the limit at $30,000 for married filing jointly and $15,000 for married filing separately, tripling the current $10,000 cap. That might sound like a win… until you read the fine print.

Attention CPAs and accounting pros! Are you ready to take your practice to the next level? Then it's time to upgrade to CPA Trendlines PRO Membership—your all-access pass to premium insights, strategies, and tools designed just for YOU!See today 's best PRO  offers here.Get exclusive access – Over 10,000 articles, tools, and expert guidance—keeping you ahead of the curve in practice management, growth, and industry trends.Enjoy VIP perks – Be the first to get new content, receive special handling on orders, and unlock priority concierge service just for PRO members.Save big– In the CPA Trendlines Shop, plus deep discounts on membership plans!And here's a bonus: New PRO members receive welcome gifts worth over $300!Stay informed – With exclusive member surveys, studies, and expert insights that help grow your firm and boost your success!More support, more value, more power for your practice!Upgrade today at CPA Trendlines and start maximizing your potential!

As language evolves, clarity and authenticity are more important than ever.MOVE Like ThisWith Bonnie Buol RuszczykFor CPA TrendlinesIn this episode of MOVE Like This, host Bonnie Buol Ruszczyk welcomes Cass Bailey, CEO of Slice Communications, for an insightful discussion on how firms—especially those in professional services—can effectively communicate their organizational values in a way that resonates in today's polarized environment. With deep experience in public relations, crisis management, and employee communication, Bailey offers guidance for navigating sensitive topics while maintaining alignment between internal culture and external brand. MORE MOVE Bailey opens the conversation by sharing Slice Communications' journey from a traditional PR firm into a strategic communications agency. Today, her team helps businesses manage both their public reputation and internal messaging, especially when facing scrutiny around workforce practices and company culture.

Don't be the next victim. Spot--and stop--fraud early.   Quick Tech TalkWith Steve YossCPE TodayOccupational fraud remains one of the most pervasive and costly threats to organizations worldwide—and many companies may be underestimating the risk. A recent Quick Tech Talks episode delves into key findings from the Association of Certified Fraud Examiners' (ACFE) 2024 Report to the Nations, uncovering the mechanics behind the world's most common types of fraud and the staggering financial toll they exact. MORE Steve Yoss here MORE TECH The numbers are alarming: Occupational fraud is responsible for losses equaling up to 7% of global GDP, or more than $5 trillion annually, according to the ACFE. These crimes don't just target large corporations—they impact businesses of all sizes and sectors. In this episode, listeners are guided through the three major categories of occupational fraud—asset misappropriation, financial statement fraud, and corruption—and shown how each can quietly undermine an organization's integrity and profitability.

Accounting must abandon toxic traditions, prioritize people over profits, and rebuild its mentoring culture—or risk losing the next generation entirely. The DisruptorsWith Liz FarrYuri Kapilovich didn't set out to become #TheFunCPA. It started as a casual hashtag when he shared photos from buses and bikes, but it stuck—especially after a networking event where attendees misread his booth sign and started calling him “The Funk PA.” The nickname became a brand, but it also reflects his deeper mission: bringing humanity and humor back to a profession that's burning out its best talent. CPA TRENDLINES CELEBRATES: The 100th Episode of The Disruptors MORE STREAMING: Martha Yasso: From Wall Street to Main Street | Jackie Meyer: Tax Plans in 90 Seconds? Believe It | Erica Goode: Build a $200K Firm in 15hrs/Week | Randy Crabtree: Live at the Intersection of Passion & Skill |McClelland and Telka: Women Ready to Rewrite the Rules of Accounting | Jacob Schroeder: AI Won't Replace Accountants—But It Will Reveal Who's Replaceable | Ditching Corporate America: The Bold Story Behind PBS Accounting's Rapid Rise | Jean Zick: Happy Team = Happy Clients | Breslin & Greathead: Be a Client Advocate | Dominic Piscopo: Clear Pay=Bargaining Power | Debbie Kilsheimer: Stop Thinking Small | Kapilovich, founder of Kapilovich & Associates, believes the root of accounting's talent shortage is simple: misplaced priorities. “We, as a profession—especially in the larger firms—have lost sight of the fact that the number one asset we have is our people,” he says. “It's not the clients.”When firms put clients ahead of staff, the result is a toxic cycle: long hours, low pay, and outdated leadership practices that make accounting look like a dead-end career. “Why would I do accounting,” Kapilovich asks, “when I can do finance or computer science and make six figures right out of school?”

"No one wants to leave the IRS more than they have to." By Rory Henry CFP®, BFA™For CPA TrendlinesAn estimated 10 to 12 million Boomer-owned businesses are expected to transition over the next decade. That's a massive wave of planning, liquidity events, and legacy questions. Yet experts say most owners don't engage advisors until they're well into the deal process. MORE Rory Henry and The Holistic Guide to Wealth Management BUY the Holistic Guide to Wealth Management “By the time they come to us, they've often already signed a letter of intent,” laments Randy A. Fox, CFP, AEP, founder of Two Hawks Family Office Services, on a recent panel discussion for contributors to my new book, Holistic Guide to Wealth Management. “That shuts the door on a lot of the strategies that could have helped them keep more of what they built,” Fox added. Fellow contributor and panel discussion guest Christine Nicholson, author, business consultant, and exit planning specialist, has worked with hundreds of owners. She sees the same distorted view of reality cloud their thinking -- owners mistakenly assume their kids will take over and believe their business is worth far more than it really is.

...And the 8 emerging leadership paths that can help you rise to the top...Accounting InfluencersWith Rob BrownIn the world of accounting, influence is no longer the exclusive domain of Big Four alumni or Ivy League pedigrees. Each December, Accounting Today releases its Top 100 Most Influential People list, highlighting leaders who shape the profession. The surprising truth behind many of these selections? Over 70% started from modest beginnings, without elite credentials, but with a clear strategy for building career capital. MORE Accounting Influencers with Rob Brown In a recent episode of the Accounting Influencers Podcast, host Rob Brown delves into the evolving landscape of leadership in accounting. “This isn't about popularity or vanity metrics,” Brown says. “It's about curating influence—the kind that drives innovation, fosters relevance, and moves the profession forward.”

Understanding the full picture delivers higher ROI.Capstone ConversationsBy Jean CaragherFor CPA TrendlinesIn this episode of Capstone Conversations with Jean Caragher of Capstone Marketing, Alex Miller, marketing manager at Lanigan Ryan and the Association for Accounting Marketing's 2025 Volunteer of the Year, shares powerful insights about the evolving role of marketers in accounting firms. Her two top takeaways? Curiosity and collaboration drive career success, and client experience and artificial intelligence (AI) offer the profession's biggest opportunities and challenges. Follow Jean Caragher on CPA Trendlines here. | Get her best-selling handbook, The 90-Day Marketing Plan for CPA Firms, here | Catch Jean Caragher's other show, Gear Up for Growth, here. | And browse all the shows in the CPA Trendlines broadcast network here “Curiosity has opened so many doors for me,” says Miller. “You have to ask questions – about your firm's services, your teammates' work, and your goals. When you understand the full picture, you can market more effectively and bring real value to your team.” 

The ARC team spills their messiest moments and why grit—not perfection—matters most. Accounting ARCWith Byron Patrick, Liz Mason, and Donny ShimamotoCenter for Accounting TransformationIn the latest episode of Accounting ARC, hosts Donny Shimamoto, CPA.CITP, CGMA; Liz Mason, CPA; and Byron Patrick, CPA.CITP, CGMA, lay down their professional armor to explore one central theme: grit—what it means, when it matters, and how it shows up in real life.  MORE Accounting ARC: More Admins, Fewer Students, No Plan | What Career Advice Gets Wrong for Gen Z - And How to Fix It |Your Identity is Not a Liability | What Happens in Vegas… Gets Reported on a Tax Return | Burnout, Be Gone: Accounting Needs a Boundary Breakthrough | The Ultimate Business Hack You're Probably Ignoring | Resilience, Real Talk, and the Road to Mental Wellness | Blockchain Could Still Reshape Accounting | What Gen Z Wants from Business | Firm Differentiation Depends Upon Client Service |“This episode was about being honest,” says Patrick, CEO of VERIFYiQ and co-founder of TB Academy. “There are moments in everyone's career where it all feels like too much.” 

Attention CPAs and accounting pros! Are you ready to take your practice to the next level? Then it's time to upgrade to CPA Trendlines PRO Membership—your all-access pass to premium insights, strategies, and tools designed just for YOU!See today 's best PRO  offers here.Get exclusive access – Over 10,000 articles, tools, and expert guidance—keeping you ahead of the curve in practice management, growth, and industry trends.Enjoy VIP perks – Be the first to get new content, receive special handling on orders, and unlock priority concierge service just for PRO members.Save big– In the CPA Trendlines Shop, plus deep discounts on membership plans!And here's a bonus: New PRO members receive welcome gifts worth over $300!Stay informed – With exclusive member surveys, studies, and expert insights that help grow your firm and boost your success!More support, more value, more power for your practice!Upgrade today at CPA Trendlines and start maximizing your potential!

"Every bill hides a tax increase."Quick Tax TipWith Art WernerCPE TodayTrump's new “Big Beautiful Bill” might look like a win for taxpayers...but not so fast. For accountants, lawyers, consultants, and other professional service providers, it could bring a stealthy tax hike.Click here for more Art WernerIn this episode of Quick Tax Tip, expert Art Werner unpacks how this proposed legislation may change the way accountants—and other professionals—get taxed. The bottom line? If you're part of a pass-through entity, your tax benefits may be about to shrink.Werner opens the discussion with a familiar refrain in tax: It depends.

Plus, get 20 key takeaways, including life after layoffs.Accounting InfluencersWith Rob BrownAs technology transforms the accounting profession, jobs are being redefined—or eliminated altogether. In this episode of Accounting Influencers, host Rob Brown unpacks the wave of layoffs sweeping through the Big Four and leading software providers and what it means for the future of accounting careers. MORE Accounting Influencers with Rob Brown Layoffs at PwC, EY, Deloitte, KPMG, and Intuit are a wake-up call. These aren't just belt-tightening moves—they're signs of a larger shift driven by AI and automation. PwC cut 1,500 jobs in May, EY let go of over 1,400 employees, and Deloitte laid off "an unspecified number." Meanwhile, Intuit laid off 1,800 employees to invest more heavily in AI.As Brown puts it: “This isn't just about cutting costs. These firms are pivoting to hire people who can drive tech-enabled growth.” The message is clear: jobs are disappearing, but new ones are emerging—for those with the right skills.

Back up your data in 10 minutes or less. It could be the most important thing you do today. Quick Tech TalkWith Steve YossCPE TodayIn the latest episode of Quick Tech Talks, you'll learn why backing up your data isn't just for IT professionals or large companies—it's something anyone can do in just 10 minutes, using tools you likely already have. MORE Steve Yoss here MORE TECH Whether you're managing financials, running a firm, or just storing family photos, protecting your digital files is no longer optional.With rising ransomware threats and hardware failure still a common reality, having a reliable backup strategy is the digital equivalent of locking your doors at night. Fortunately, getting started is way easier than you might think.“It doesn't require a lot of technical expertise,” Yoss explains. “If you've got 10 minutes, you can do it.”

Your real ROI comes from relationships, not spreadsheets. The DisruptorsWith Liz FarrMartha Yasso didn't just balance billion-dollar books — she watched businesses crumble under them. CPA TRENDLINES CELEBRATES: The 100th Episode of The Disruptors MORE Jackie Meyer and The Concierge CPA MORE STREAMING: Jackie Meyer: Tax Plans in 90 Seconds? Believe It | Erica Goode: Build a $200K Firm in 15hrs/Week | Randy Crabtree: Live at the Intersection of Passion & Skill |McClelland and Telka: Women Ready to Rewrite the Rules of Accounting | Jacob Schroeder: AI Won't Replace Accountants—But It Will Reveal Who's Replaceable | Ditching Corporate America: The Bold Story Behind PBS Accounting's Rapid Rise | Jean Zick: Happy Team = Happy Clients | Breslin & Greathead: Be a Client Advocate | Dominic Piscopo: Clear Pay=Bargaining Power | Debbie Kilsheimer: Stop Thinking Small | She began her career in the high-octane world of junk bonds on Wall Street, where she relished the analytical challenges of cash flow modeling. But what initially felt like powerful work soon turned emotionally draining. “I was ripping apart companies and watching it happen in real time,” she says. “It was exhausting and depressing.”Her breaking point came with the downfall of Toys R Us. “It failed because of where the cash was going. It wasn't being reinvested into the business — it was being pulled out for gains by management.” That moment crystallized a new purpose for Yasso. She didn't want to watch from the sidelines as companies fell apart. She wanted to help build them.

Research shows that money activates more areas of the brain than sex, death, politics, or religion.  By Rory Henry CFP®, BFA™For CPA TrendlinesA recent McKinsey study found that the demand for holistic financial advice increased 60% from 2018 to 2023. Meanwhile, another McKinsey study projected a shortage of 100,000 financial advisors by 2034. That gap is leaving a massive opportunity for CPAs to step up as holistic advisors.  MORE Rory Henry and The Holistic Guide to Wealth Management BUY the Holistic Guide to Wealth Management A recent Holistic Guide to Wealth Management book panel discussion with two industry luminaries showed that CPAs who are in the best position to thrive as holistic advisors are those who use technology to deliver deeper planning and relationship-driven advice. “Traditional econometric models were all predicated on this idea that people were rational,” noted psychologist, author, and behavioral finance expert, Dr. Daniel Crosby. “What we actually know is that it is perhaps least true of us when it comes to money.”  

Attention CPAs and accounting pros! Are you ready to take your practice to the next level? Then it's time to upgrade to CPA Trendlines PRO Membership—your all-access pass to premium insights, strategies, and tools designed just for YOU!See today 's best PRO  offers here.Get exclusive access – Over 10,000 articles, tools, and expert guidance—keeping you ahead of the curve in practice management, growth, and industry trends.Enjoy VIP perks – Be the first to get new content, receive special handling on orders, and unlock priority concierge service just for PRO members.Save big– In the CPA Trendlines Shop, plus deep discounts on membership plans!And here's a bonus: New PRO members receive welcome gifts worth over $300!Stay informed – With exclusive member surveys, studies, and expert insights that help grow your firm and boost your success!More support, more value, more power for your practice!Upgrade today at CPA Trendlines and start maximizing your potential!

Building a firm should provide time, money, and freedom. The Concierge CPAWith Jackie MeyerFor CPA TrendlinesIn this conversation, Dr. Jackie Meyer, CPA and Reza Hooda, Coach & Mentor to Accountants with The Profitable Accountants Community, discuss the transformative journey of Hooda from a traditional accounting background to modernizing his practice through value pricing and effective client engagement strategies. More Jackie MeyerThey explore the importance of pricing psychology, positioning, and the four pillars of success in building a thriving accounting firm. Reza shares his insights on the challenges faced by accountants and the necessity of niching down to attract the right clients. The discussion also touches on the impact of mentorship and continuous learning in achieving business growth and personal freedom. 

Leaders must decide whether to follow the money—or protect their independence.Accounting InfluencersWith Rob BrownIn a striking shift that's redefining the accounting profession, private equity is no longer circling—it's landed. On a recent episode of the Accounting Influencers Podcast, host Rob Brown breaks down what might be the most transformative trend facing accounting firm leaders today: the rapid influx of private equity (PE) into the industry. MORE Accounting Influencers with Rob Brown "Would you sell half of your accounting firm to a private equity firm for a billion dollars?" Brown asks. “Because some of the biggest names in our industry already have.”And they're not small names. Baker Tilly, the 10th largest U.S. accounting firm, recently sold more than 50% of its business to a private equity firm. Grant Thornton did the same. The motivations are clear: stay competitive, invest in technology, attract top-tier talent, and survive the pressures of a changing profession.The episode lays out the perfect storm: firms are grappling with shrinking margins, relentless competition, and a talent shortage unlike any in recent history. Against this backdrop, private equity offers a lifeline—cash, resources, and a roadmap for accelerated growth.But the promise comes with caveats.“With that capital comes leverage and debt,” Brown warns. “Is this injection of cash helping firms stay relevant, or is it putting them at risk of losing their independence?”

To turn disruption into opportunities, get marketers to the table "early and often."Capstone ConversationsBy Jean CaragherFor CPA TrendlinesKristen Lewis, Managing Director of Marketing for EisnerAmper and the 2025 Association for Accounting Marketing (AAM) Marketer of the Year, joins Jean Caragher on Capstone Conversations to share lessons from her marketing leadership, insights on post-pandemic strategy shifts, and her vision for the profession's future. The conversation examines both the tactical and human aspects of CPA firm marketing in an era of rapid change, industry consolidation, and heightened client expectations.Follow Jean Caragher on CPA Trendlines here. | Get her best-selling handbook, The 90-Day Marketing Plan for CPA Firms, here | Catch Jean Caragher's other show, Gear Up for Growth, here. | And browse all the shows in the CPA Trendlines broadcast network here Lewis reflects on her oft-quoted phrase from a previous Capstone appearance during COVID—“building the car while driving it”—as still being true today. She notes that the firm's post-pandemic agility has become both a strength and a challenge, with the pace of innovation and disruption keeping teams moving at high speed. “We proved to ourselves that we could be nimble and change things on the fly,” she says. “That's exciting, but also exhausting at times.”

Hosts call out the fiscal dysfunction behind America's school meltdown.Accounting ARCWith Byron Patrick, and Donny ShimamotoWhen CNBC published a video examining why U.S. public schools are facing severe budget shortfalls, it sparked a passionate accounting conversation. On the Accounting ARC podcast, co-hosts Donny Shimamoto, CPA.CITP, CGMA, and Byron Patrick, CPA.CITP, CGMA, offer a reaction episode that reframes the crisis through the lens of financial strategy—and accountability. MORE Accounting ARC: What Career Advice Gets Wrong for Gen Z - And How to Fix It |Your Identity is Not a Liability | What Happens in Vegas… Gets Reported on a Tax Return | Burnout, Be Gone: Accounting Needs a Boundary Breakthrough | The Ultimate Business Hack You're Probably Ignoring | Resilience, Real Talk, and the Road to Mental Wellness | Blockchain Could Still Reshape Accounting | What Gen Z Wants from Business | Firm Differentiation Depends Upon Client Service |Both CPAs were struck by one glaring omission in the original reporting: the absence of accounting professionals in decision-making roles. “Where's the CFO?” asks Shimamoto, founder and managing director of IntrapriseTechKnowlogies, and founder and inspiration architect of the Center for Accounting Transformation. “Who looked at the time limits on that COVID-era grant money and said, ‘Hey, this isn't going to last'?”Patrick, CEO of VERIFYiQ, and co-founder and educator at TB Academy, echoes that frustration: “It's like budgeting on hopes and dreams instead of facts and forecasts.”

...Before year-end chaos returns...Quick Tax TipWith Art WernerCPE TodayBusy season is behind us. Year-end reporting deadlines haven't hit yet. That makes right now the sweet spot for strategic client outreach—and tax professionals shouldn't waste a second of it.Click here for more Art WernerIn the latest episode of the Quick Tax Tip podcast, listeners get an urgent wake-up call: This is the moment to reconnect with clients, reevaluate their entity structures, and prepare them for the potential ripple effects of new legislation.“This might be the best question any tax pro could ask right now,” Werner says in response to a question about how to prioritize client conversations after busy season. “You've got breathing room—use it.”

“You can have inclusion without belonging, but it's not going to stick. People need to feel they matter.”MOVE Like ThisWith Bonnie Buol RuszczykFor CPA TrendlinesIn this episode of MOVE Like This, host Bonnie Buol Ruszczyk talks with Jim Wallace, CEO of BPM, about how the firm has embedded diversity, equity, inclusion, and belonging (DEIB) into the core of its culture and strategy. With more than 40 years in public accounting, Jim shares candid insights into how BPM went beyond the “check the box” approach to DEIB by making it a CEO-led initiative from the start.  MORE MOVE Wallace explains that BPM's brand promise, “Because People Matter,” isn't just a slogan, but a foundational principle that informs every part of the firm's operations, from leadership development to firm-wide engagement. DEIB is not treated as a standalone initiative; it's part of the firm's strategic plan and embedded in its values, mission, and even metrics. For example, BPM uses colleague engagement surveys to track employee sentiment, finding that 82% of employees feel they can bring their authentic selves to work. These insights drive changes in programming and support for staff. 

A brief disruption could cost you thousands. A complete failure could cost you everything.Quick Tech TalkWith Steve YossCPE TodayIn the digital era, your data is your most valuable asset. Whether you're serving clients, analyzing operations, or simply keeping your business afloat, uninterrupted access to accurate data is essential. But what happens when that access is suddenly taken away? MORE Steve Yoss here MORE TECH That's the urgent question explored in the latest episode of Quick Tech Talks, where the focus is on why every business—regardless of size or industry—needs a robust, modern data backup strategy. This isn't just about peace of mind. It's about regulatory compliance, operational continuity, and business survival.

Boundaries, balance, and tech-powered efficiency are key to more fulfilling work. The DisruptorsWith Liz FarrJackie Meyer envisions a future where every taxpayer “has some kind of democratized access to tax-saving ideas.” Those on the lower end of the income spectrum might be able to upload their 1040s for an instant readout of missed tax saving opportunities and connection to an advisor. CPA TRENDLINES CELEBRATES: The 100th Episode of The Disruptors MORE STREAMING: Erica Goode: Build a $200K Firm in 15hrs/Week | Randy Crabtree: Live at the Intersection of Passion & Skill | McClelland and Telka: Women Ready to Rewrite the Rules of Accounting | Jacob Schroeder: AI Won't Replace Accountants—But It Will Reveal Who's Replaceable | Ditching Corporate America: The Bold Story Behind PBS Accounting's Rapid Rise | Jean Zick: Happy Team = Happy Clients | Breslin & Greathead: Be a Client Advocate | Dominic Piscopo: Clear Pay=Bargaining Power | Debbie Kilsheimer: Stop Thinking Small | Until that future of democratized access, Meyer wants to spread the word about the incredible opportunity for tax professionals to specialize in tax planning and advisory. “I was able to sell my own firm with 56 clients for just at seven figures because I led with tax advisory,” Meyer recalls. Her seven-figure firm required only four hours per week.In her third appearance on The Disruptors with Liz Farr, Meyer discusses her next step in supporting tax advisory professionals with a new community, TaxPlanIQ Growth Plan. This new community revolves around the tax planning software she created, TaxPlanIQ. Meyer's tech firm was selected for the 2023 CPA.com Startup Accelerator Program. “We have gotten tax plan creation automated and down into just two to three minutes per tax plan,” she explains.

Connecting the dots between behavior, legacy, and tax strategy unlocks greater trust—and stronger returns—for clients.By Rory Henry CFP®, BFA™For CPA TrendlinesIn today's evolving advice landscape, being an expert in investment portfolios or tax returns is just table stakes. To stand out in a crowded field, you must be able to think at least two steps ahead of your clients. It means helping clients navigate life transitions, avoid costly mistakes, and leave a legacy with intention.  MORE Rory Henry and The Holistic Guide to Wealth Management BUY the Holistic Guide to Wealth Management As you're probably sensing, we're not just in the business of numbers today. We're in the business of behavior and relationships. That's the message during the latest Holistic Guide to Wealth Management book panel featuring Michael DiJoseph, CFA, a senior strategist at Vanguard's Investment Advisory Research Center, and Andres Mazabel, head of Advisor Sales at Trust & Will. The discussion unpacks what 25 years of Vanguard's Advisor Alpha research tells us about advisor value—and how digital estate planning is becoming a powerful new entry point for meaningful client conversations. 

This interdisciplinary approach offers a glimpse into the future of the accounting profession.The Concierge CPAWith Jackie MeyerFor CPA TrendlinesIn this episode of The Concierge CPA, host Jackie Meyer introduces an extraordinary guest who truly embodies the term concierge advisor. Meet Chris Papin—CPA, attorney, insurance producer, and all-around problem-solver for small business clients navigating today's increasingly complex financial landscape.Papin, founder of both Papin CPA and Papin Law, brings a rare blend of legal, accounting, and advisory insight under one roof. Based in Edmond, Oklahoma, his firm is not only a one-stop shop for tax compliance and estate planning—it's a home base for strategic conversations, real-world coaching, and highly personalized service.More Jackie MeyerPapin's journey began when a college professor explained that certain advanced tax topics were reserved for lawyers. That stuck. Years later, Papin is that lawyer—and CPA—bringing the skipped chapters into focus for his clients. His multi-credentialed approach is more than a résumé flex; it's a direct response to client demand for integrated, trustworthy, and empathetic advisory.“Small business owners often need to pull five levers to get all the professionals they need in one room. I decided to be all five,” Papin quips.