From The Trenches

This show was recorded in mid February but thanks to Dave being busy getting the ChangeGPS new TaxPlan Advanced product ready we had a delay getting it out. Oh how we long for the days 6 years ago when we'd record and publish in a 2 minute workflow.    Before we begin.....To The Xero's...https://www.linkedin.com/feed/update/urn:li:activity:7039489285565161472/  Best A very simple explanation about why we don't know what to do in the current Australian Economy Australians head for their first endogenous shock in 30 years - MacroBusiness   Tips for Xero Roadshow for exhibitors and why we need an active ecosystem Xero Roadshow Playbook | App Partner Edition (letsjourney.com.au)   Worst Dext are determined to reinvent an accounting role Pre-Accounting: Why Small Businesses Can't Ignore It - Dext Blog Death of the Accountants Exemption Michelle Levy advice review: Labor to ‘stress-test' plan to overhaul financial advice (afr.com)   Xero State of the Union Report Take Aways Dave Surprised how popular mergers are in shifts in practice structure is 40% of practices offer employee benefits 40% dev and training, 33% track employee wellbeing, if you aren't happy leave….we don't need to constantly berate the business model of accounting firms, enough firms are progressive to give staff choice and it's the laggards loss.  Only 19% are home office only, that convo is dead, move on  Paul Bookkeepers don't equal accountants in any sense of practice but the report, like so many other strip both of their individual identities and can get the conclusion wrong More services doesn't mean more service Surveys are always an issue   Dave's not so new Trench  See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

While the entire world changes in response to war, inflation, the Covid Era work habits that are sticking round and Jim Chalmers attempt to alter the course of capitalism, our pertinacious host Paul Meissner proudly declares that TECH WILL NOT CHANGE (even though he knows ChangeGPS will drop 3 new products this year)! Before we dive in, a huge thank you to our episode sponsors 'Access Offshoring'. Are you struggling to find quality staff in your firm? Speak to the team at Access Offshoring. They specialise in finding quality talent in the Phillipines, trained on Australian tax law. They can help you improve your margins, unlock your capacity and get your firm back on track.  Tax will Change Blue collar workers won't get the same ATO treatment as white collars The year of the micro business as COSBOA gets the chance to stop pandering to unions  The year of return to employment for failing micro businesses  Conference Schedule overload  Post Conference marketing to accountants to be .... reduced? NAH! The voice of accountants gets organised to have impact for small business and themselves Professional bodies make an effort to improve, hopefully  There has to be a growth in offshoring  Conference Content maintains its repetition  Accountants look after themselves!! This show is proudly sponsored by Access Offshoring and ChangeGPSSee omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

We are brought to you by ChangeGPS LIVE FROM BRISBANE https://www.eventbrite.com.au/e/changegps-live-from-brisbane-tickets-460588100407  Best on Ground Trenches Award Finalists https://awards.fromthetrenches.com.au/  GET YOUR TICKETS NOW and enjoy some early bird pricing  Could the real CAANZ Members please stand up? YES!!!!! https://www.linkedin.com/feed/update/urn:li:activity:6995548683614253056/  Work from Home For Ever is done  https://twitter.com/ShaanVP/status/1588589924072443904  Sensationalist Click Bait our way https://www.bloomberg.com/opinion/articles/2022-11-01/the-accountant-shortage-threatens-capitalism-s-future  Conor Clune published a paper on the governance of professional accounting bodies and he's coming on trenches https://www.emerald.com/insight/content/doi/10.1108/AAAJ-08-2020-4756/full/html  Xero small business insights is finally getting the recognition it deserves https://www.linkedin.com/posts/louise-southall-2038b6157_policymaking-at-the-reserve-bank-speeches-activity-6988004559528861697-0YO0/?utm_source=share&utm_medium=member_android  Great engagement from Tax Institute to a member concern https://twitter.com/austaxter/status/1582505298010382337  RIP Simple Fund Desktop https://www.bglcorp.com/2022/09/19/simple-fund-desktop-end-of-product-life-date-set/?utm_medium=email&utm_source=rasa_io&utm_campaign=newsletter  Worst on Ground Early proof quality of work is declining due to staff shortage crisis https://www.afr.com/companies/professional-services/deloitte-calls-crisis-meeting-blames-staff-turnover-for-poor-audit-results-20221025-p5bsn8  See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Today's CAANZ AGM was a "Sales Pitch" According to 25 year member Thomas O'Brien.  Thom asked a question at the AGM, he got a response but doesn't feel he got an answer, in fact he doesn't feel heard at all.  In this episode Thom gives his time to share his experience of trying to be heard by CAANZ during an AGM where CAANZ stated they were listening multiple times.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

This is one of the hardest episodes we've recorded. Both David and Paul have such pride in achieving our CA designations, the quality of the CA program and the effort it took to complete the program. We feel that the current CAANZ doesn't represent the needs, interests or wants of public practice members and the board asking for votes at the AGM for a 15.8% payrise has understandably upset members. Many members believe this is unwarranted and want to do something about it. CAANZ Board Assessment Process David and Paul have discussed their views on CAANZ's strategy and values with a public practice lens and we believe the pay rise isn't warranted.  To be fair to the board, our plucky hosts have reviewed CAANZ strategy and assessed each pillar based on their own opinions.  Get the CAANZ Strategy here https://www.charteredaccountantsanz.com/about-us/what-we-do/vision-and-strategy    Why bother? If all accountants do is complain amongst ourselves, and ignore opportunities for impact, we will eventually be pushed aside and taper off into further anger and frustration.  We encourage you to do the same prior to casting your vote. We are not campaigning a no vote, we are campaigning for you participate.  We encourage members in public practice to make their own decision, but if you have a view, don't leave it to other voices to drown you out, vote.  Next StepsMembers will have received an email entitled "Chartered Accountants Australia and New Zealand 2022 Annual General Meeting"There is a link to register your proxy with a no vote and assign it to the president to table at the AGM. This email also contains your Unique Identification Number (UIN) that you'll need to register your vote.While members who feel the organisation is being mismanaged can't do a lot to be heard, we CAN do this.This isn't a call for resignations or mutiny, it's simply another attempt by members with real passion for the industry and pride in our designation to be heard.    See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

The Australian Accounting Industry Awards looks to celebrate hard-working accountants, bookkeepers, and leaders of the industry for 2022. Hailed as the Brownlow medal night for the accounting industry. These awards highlight the efforts and grit of our public practitioner community during arguably one of the toughest periods of their career.​​​​ Join us in Sydney, in late November, for a gala dinner for the ages. Strictly limited places, be sure to RSVP when tickets become available. Nominate yourself or a friend here https://awards.fromthetrenches.com.au/    The Australian Accounting Industry Awards are brough to you by Wheel ChangeGPS Dext Content Snare Access Offshoring Aider Lightyear Australian Bookkeepers Network Everperform and The institute of Certified Bookkeepers    Our Awesome media partners are Accountex SYDNEY 2023 and XU Magazine   See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

When Xero goes down does CTO Mark Rees get a red alert alarm in the middle of the night? Is it red flashing lights and blaring alarms?    Listen to find out as Paul Meissner goes 1:1 with Mark Rees at Xerocon      See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

There are so many new payment apps now.  Some of them are payments but cheaper and other build great workflows to solve business problems you currently have.  And there is a ton of work being done to help banks understand Xero data.  And the person overseeing this strategy is Xero's Leigh O'Neill.    Check out our other Xerocon Interviews. 4 Minutes and 31 Seconds with Jo Lyons @Xerocon https://omny.fm/shows/from-the-trenches/4-minutes-and-31-seconds-with-jo-lyons   See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

New Xero APAC Managing Director Jo Lyons has the energy one needs to take on this enormous job. In this 4 minutes and 31 second floor walk interview Jo and Paul capture the energy of Xerocon.  Check out our other Xerocon interviews Financial Services and Xero - What and Why with Leigh O'Neill - EGM Financial Services  Where's the product? With Mark Rees CTO Huge thanks to Xero for comping Paul and Dave some Xerocon tickets. See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

It's a nervous feeling as we get ready for for the biggest gathering of the industry in 3 years with the 3,000 odd attendees slightly eclipsing the 13 odd people who went to the IPA crypto conference.  This is the retail junket we have all been looking for, the most accessible one that has sold out by attendees, was over sold to sponsors and stands to re shape the energy in the industry.  And we discuss, if we don't expect major product announcements, and if the content is more wokey, techy, thoughy leadershipy stuff you could get anywhere then why did it sell out? And why are we so excited? Well, because this is the greatest peer accounting community in the region and the industry clearly craves coming together.  In this years preview Dave and Paul cover: Is this a tech conference or an accounting conference? What we're looking forward to  What we want to learn Who we want to meet (hint, it's you).  Software Vs Accountants Futsol Penalty Shootout Want to kick a ball at the head of a software vendor (And be ok with them kicking back)? Software Vs Accountants Futsol penalty shoot out will go ahead live at Time 2.00 PM Day 2 Wednesday  If you want to attend send Paul, Dave or Trent a message on social media or email summit@fromthetrenches.com.au   See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Best on Ground Tyler Casky takes the Moral High ground on paid influencers https://www.linkedin.com/posts/tylercaskey_i-love-little-innovations-like-this-they-activity-6964724147667025920-k72D/?utm_source=linkedin_share&utm_medium=member_desktop_web  The rise of Workplace TV Madmen Succession Halt and Catch Fire  Silicon Valley Industry https://www.newyorker.com/culture/cultural-comment/the-new-season-of-industry-and-the-rise-of-workplace-tv/amp  Pauls Rant  got 50k Linked In views -  but is he right?  https://www.linkedin.com/feed/update/urn:li:activity:6963277532511043585/  Progress on the Gender Pay Gap at the Big 4  https://www.afr.com/companies/professional-services/financial-review-consulting-salary-guide-2022-23-20220808-p5b815  Paul Excel formula's: ​​https://www.linkedin.com/posts/asifmasani_financial-modelling-formulas-ugcPost-6965610625259454464--7kU?utm_source=share&utm_medium=member_desktop We need a Recession so tech staff find out what hard work looks like https://twitter.com/JohnWRichKid/status/1561023740577779713  Worst on Ground  David Quiet quitting isn't real - we used to call it being lazy, this is just the old gen thinking the new gen work less - https://www.accountantsdaily.com.au/appointments/17457-excess-overtime-fuels-quiet-quitting-epidemic  This is what 16% homeloans look like - Literally  https://www.linkedin.com/posts/james-n-nicol_these-are-not-high-interest-rates-this-activity-6968392410934501376-kJ4j/?utm_source=share&utm_medium=member_desktop  Nonsense Mission Statements getting called out https://www.afr.com/work-and-careers/management/ashurst-should-accept-its-purpose-is-not-extraordinary-20220722-p5b3qc  Paul CPA too late on capacity to pay letters  https://www.accountantsdaily.com.au/business/17328-avoid-capacity-to-pay-letters-warns-cpa-australia  Chartered Accountants Launches another review  - we don't care, what matters is implemented changes. Intuit has rebranded to a simpler font. Why? https://www.intuit.com/blog/news-social/unveiling-our-new-intuit-logo/?cid=soc_employee-ambassador&utm_channeltype=LinkedIn   See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

What a week to make worst on ground. No matter how hard you tried, some other company did it worse. Xero are pulling their much loved version 1 reports. That was a show until… KPMG got caught cheating and CA did barely anything about it. That was a show until… CAANZ took 18 months to do what little they did causing all three accounting bodies to get a please explain from the Professional Standards Authority and somehow found a way to defend their actions and blame their processes instead of any one person. Sounds like the type of unaccountable culture that could lead to….say……systemising ethical breaches. Best on Ground David Xero's Emotional Tax Return Campaign https://www.linkedin.com/posts/joseph-lyons-au_running-your-own-business-is-an-incredibly-activity-6949868389066514432-7Qly/?utm_source=linkedin_share&utm_medium=member_desktop_web   Accountants Daily new Editor Phil King is capturing the mood of the industry with tech news and industry voice Paul New Xero product - Xero go. Interesting given the current app already has a lot of the functionality.  https://www.xero.com/blog/2022/07/xero-go-for-uk-based-sole-traders/  Beta testing new tech is good for the customer.  AI in Food - https://www.afr.com/technology/pizza-giant-gets-into-maths-of-preparing-food-before-orders-arrive-20220713-p5b1g0  Worst on Ground Paul CA can't uphold the ethics of the profession  https://www.afr.com/companies/professional-services/professional-regulator-blasts-shocking-delay-in-kpmg-cheating-probe-20220718-p5b2jn  Perception that CA treat big firms better than small may not be true  CAANZ blame their processes, but what about their people? Who is actually responsible? The by-laws can't punish the right entities How important is being part of the Professional Standards Authority?  ANZ - MYOB - Suncorp - Myob https://www.arnnet.com.au/article/699933/anz-drops-myob-acquisition-talks/  David Rezza hood manages to upset accountants and bookkeepers in one overly salesy Hpost https://www.linkedin.com/posts/rezahooda_accountants-accountingandaccountants-activity-6953303419453378560-b5xX/?utm_source=linkedin_share&utm_medium=member_desktop_web  Mass Media Fear mongering on interest rates makes us dumberhttps://www.linkedin.com/posts/michaelhutchens_australias-mass-media-reporting-of-the-reserve-activity-6949950144876290049-rnjx/?utm_source=linkedin_share&utm_medium=member_desktop_web  Atlassian is so unprofitable but we worship them https://www.smartcompany.com.au/startupsmart/analysis/atlassian-unprofitable-valuation-adam-schwab/  Why VCFO Fails https://www.linkedin.com/feed/update/urn:li:activity:6947990583122513920/  VCFO association is part of the solution they spend their time trying to educate on the difference  https://vcfoassociation.com.au/    __________________________________________________ This Episode is brought to you by ChangeGPS - Growth Profit Systems making accounting client friendly (brought to you means Dave did it on ChangeGPS time).  Register for the 2022 Financial Statements + Tax Return Workpapers Masterclass Monday 1st August 2022 1:00-2:00pm AEST 2022 Financial Statements + Tax Return Workpapers Masterclass (changegps.com.au) Do you want to get your entire team to have an efficient and standardised Year End process? Invite the whole team - even your juniors! - for our 2022 Financial Statements and Tax Return Workpaper Masterclass. With a consistent “one-way for everyone” approach, your firm will be able to: work efficiently to deliver year end, the same way, for all clients  de-risk by ensuring all work is produced to an exact quality standard train your employees with a comprehensive client service system and simplified workpapers  You'll join ChangeGPS Founder, Timothy Munro, and CEO, David Boyar who will deep dive in to our most popular workpapers, utilised by thousands of accountants across Australia. Register now 2022 Financial Statements + Tax Return Workpapers Masterclass (changegps.com.au) Join us to learn: Why “one way” of doing things across your entire firm maximises your production and minimises your review time The balance your team needs to take to keep your jobs profitable without becoming an ATO auditor on every transaction! Why Excel workpapers strike the accountant's perfect balance between standardisation and flexibility Why Excel Workpapers and Xero Workpapers combine for management review perfection How to get your clients engaged in the year end process without relying on a threat from the ATO PLUS: See how your client's TAX OBLIGATIONS should be recorded at year end on their Balance Sheet and how our 2022 Tax Checklists help prompt your team to ensure this always happens!  See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

The orange, and widely loved Dext (Previously Receipt Bank) has had an interesting run. Widely regarded as the best technical product for receipt automation, it's been a different couple of years for this fast paced start-up! Dext Chief Revenue Officer Alistair Newman says they're bigger, and better and have new ways to build relationships with you their customer.  But the accounting community has a lot of questions, and we are lucky to sit down and get some real answers from Al himself when he was down under in Australia last month.  In this episode we discuss the rebrand to Dext, the widely discussed pricing changes, the acquisitions and where the company is headed next.  We give a hearty Trenches congratulations to Al for this interview.  He sat there and took the direct elephant in the room questions like an absolute pro. Well done mate, as a community we really appreciate it.  ________________________________________________________________ Dext are proud sponsors of From The Trenches - Trenches Summit 2.0 Check out the Dext's Keynote at Trenches Summit 2.0   The Australian Accounting Tech Report: Solving the time/tech conundrum. A talk by David Boyar, Glenn Castle, Michael Johnson and Cassandra Scott Register Here https://summit.fromthetrenches.com.au/talks/dext-keynote/ See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Best on Ground Accounting Coaches that prove their value – with a p and l! https://www.linkedin.com/posts/sharonsnetwork_business-accounting-coaching-activity-6923203081497182208-EN8M/?utm_source=linkedin_share&utm_medium=android_app Even when McKinsey stuffs up they win https://twitter.com/MattZeitlin/status/1517279854135107584 What happens after you sell your payroll app? Richard McLean (@richviking99) / Twitter If you work for a tech company and rely on your shares instead of your wages/bonuses you'll probably lose out https://investing1012dot0.substack.com/p/valuations?s=r   Paul – Not best or worst, just really interesting seemingly lots and lots of LinkedIn new job posts. Not great resignation but Great Movement. Divipay have 14 jobs open! https://www.linkedin.com/feed/update/urn:li:activity:6936623969076658176/ ChangeGPS have 3 open positions Work with Us (changegps.com.au) Worst on Ground Power to accountants doing what the bodies aren't https://www.linkedin.com/feed/update/urn:li:activity:6927750334123556864/ Meanwhile the IPA and CA submissions were dated AFTER the advertised due date after having 6 years to get their act together! If Benny Hill music had a font type it would be the new sage logo https://www.business-live.co.uk/professional-services/software-giant-sage-unveils-new-23796099 Accounting Bodies Out of touch with the urgency of s100a  Xero Roadshow Review See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Best on Ground Paul Tech wont change your life much in the next ten years - here's why https://twitter.com/sweatystartup/status/1505125330817802244  Fast Collapse: https://www.axios.com/fast-checkout-startup-collapse-029d1601-6d4f-43a4-b816-bd4b15771bbe.html  AccountexAU launch  What it needs to prove: That it can make a fair profit for it's substantial risk with the available quality content providers https://twitter.com/AccountexAus/status/1511555738430500864  Farewell Craig Walkerhttps://twitter.com/storminwalker/status/1509699836463005698  David A new Practice Manager Consideration I recently got asked if the practice management solutions actually solve a problem (so many firms just use excel) - CAA use Karbon. Paul uses excel and XPM and we hear about FYI docs all the time but PWC has chosen….Monday https://www.linkedin.com/posts/mondaydotcom_global-alliance-with-kpmg-ugcPost-6902266804081958912-8qPt/  Tinder for tax Gofar making FBT simple and is calling itself Tinder for Tax  https://www.gofar.co/  How GoProposal gets it's staff to work in the office https://www.linkedin.com/feed/update/urn:li:activity:6917789747926949888/?commentUrn=urn%3Ali%3Acomment%3A(ugcPost%3A6917789738972110848%2C6917964958639030272)  Even Jerry Seinfleid knows big firms aren't better https://twitter.com/buccocapital/status/1510249981789282304    Worst on Ground Dave Frustrated how we seem to keep printing money? Monopoly has your answer https://twitter.com/biancoresearch/status/1510254967113748485    The war in Ukraine - and the impact on accountants with clients doing business in Russia https://www.linkedin.com/posts/daniel-rosenblatt-trade-law_sanctions-russia-belarus-activity-6905150591698644994-Vdha/    Accounting Bodies are Failing.  Accounting Bodies gloss over their systemic failures around talent and there aren't enough accountants to lodge returns.  They are the accountant makes There aren't enough accountants We lose the battle for talent on campus  We focus on mental health after the damage is done and do nothing to stop the system that creates the mental health issues s100a retrospective changes is the best example Who will lodge the tax returns in 10 years? CPA seems to focus on their total members not their tax lodgers. https://www.accountantsdaily.com.au/business/16806-accountants-turning-from-technicians-to-problem-solvers/amp  Small Practitioners don't have a voice - s100a proved it - No seat at the table yet again ATO says industry asked for s100a guidance? But who asked? Who is actually your voice here? Check out who sits on the ATO's consultation group. Did they represent you? https://www.ato.gov.au/general/consultation/consultation-groups/stewardship-groups/private-groups-stewardship-group/  The current advocacy system is designed to get you to comply, not to represent you. Independence? IPA CEO appointed to TPB Board making a judge, jury and executioner  https://www.tpb.gov.au/news-media/media-releases/tax-practitioners-board-welcomes-two-new-members  The TPB accredits the IPA - From their website Professional associations may be accredited by us as a recognised tax agent or BAS agent association if they meet certain requirements in the Tax Agent Services Regulations 2022 (TASR).  The IPA Accredits Accountants - From their website  The IPA is a professional accounting body which sets professional and ethical requirements for its members, which they are required to uphold. See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

5 years ago Paul Meissner stood in the door frame of David Boyar's office at the fancy co-working space WorkClub on Collins St Melbourne. It was so fancy, by co-working standards that it hard original parquet floors. Arguing about something Xero had just done Megan Velo, who seemed to do all of David's client work, suggested the two should start a podcast. Ron Lesh and BGL backed it. 5 years of tech promises, tech deliverables, delayed tech, industry body fails, and change that was sped up by a pandemic went past.  An active community desperate for a voice was developed.  Trent McLaren was appointed as CEO.  Then Linked In reminded Dave and Paul, it was their 5 year anniversary and they just so happened to be booked for a live show at the ChangeGPS Summit on the Gold Coast.  So Dave and Paul did what they've done so many times before. They hit record.    Joining the show BGL CEO Ron Lesh From the Trenches CEO and DiviPay head of accounting Trent McLaren      See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Listen to learn:- The major announcement - the trenches team is expanding How changing your firms purpose can win the war of talent in the accounting industry  Why it is hard to establish relationships in the accounting sector How the world would be if it only had accountants Governments blaming accountants for their forecasting faults Why tech companies need to separate bookkeeper and accounting messaging  Why top line growth doesn't make you happy David explains the plan and session for the Trenches GPS Summit on May 2022 Best on Ground  Paul  Real time dashboards are overkillhttps://www.linkedin.com/posts/lukalovosevic_data-automation-realtimeanalytics-activity-6889545309546938368-XEzY/   ReckonOne is more popular than most of us think, great results from Reckon https://www.reckon.com/au/media/half-year-financial-report-2021-reckon-delivers-strong-results/ The IPA SHOULD host their tax deductible junket conferences in Fiji otherwise we can't justify any benefit at all to Australian members for this https://www.accountantsdaily.com.au/business/16650-ipa-and-the-fiji-institute-of-accountants-announce-partnership    David Baker Tilly Changes it's purpose away from lodging tax returns https://www.linkedin.com/posts/alan-whitman-357ab91_purpose-nowfortomorrow-activity-6896447373279911936-9rV3/  We don't celebrate raises often but HNRY raising 16m at a 100m valuation is good for Australian Accountants https://www.stuff.co.nz/business/127646547/wellington-startup-hnry-eyes-expansion-after-securing-16m-investment  The IRS joins Tik Tik - hilariously https://twitter.com/dhtoomey/status/1488270707406614528  Poor accounting leads to $5billion in extra rail payments https://www.abc.net.au/news/2022-02-09/nsw-government-criticised-over-accounting-by-auditor-general/100816682  and Lance Rubin responds https://www.linkedin.com/feed/update/urn:li:activity:6897288212595798016/    Worst on Ground Paul  More traditional accountant bashing: https://www.linkedin.com/feed/update/urn:li:activity:6897992721726795776?commentUrn=urn%3Ali%3Acomment%3A%28activity%3A6897992721726795776%2C6898074647389175808%29   David The busted client https://twitter.com/IraGilligan/status/1487146713949343753  The connected/Xero/Tech Savvy accountant is still news to the average business owner even though it's ten years old https://digitalmag.theceomagazine.com/anz/march-2022/innovate/nick-urry/  Outdated Hiring Practices - We are not who we worked for we are what we do https://www.linkedin.com/posts/activity-6897313048122544128-qS8U  Quotes from the Episode “I don't know how people can attract anyone to the profession when for 20 years they said the profession is not going to exist.” Paul  “One thing that's hard to replicate in the accounting industry is the relationship.” David “Financial models are wrong because the drivers are wrong” David “There's a difference between a model being wrong and the actual application of accounting standards.” David “We are not who we worked for. We are what we do.” Tyler    See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Welcome To 2022 - where all you need to do is not stay at home and live a little to start enjoying life again.    Best On Ground David The cool young accountants are sharing their salaries on Reddit https://www.reddit.com/r/AustralianAccounting/comments/s0fjr0/salary_thread/   Staff need the best tech to work well at home so the practice leaders should own IT  https://www.linkedin.com/posts/activity-6880013227548397568-OI8_/  Paul Lorilyn Wilson perfectly explains how one can look stupid trying to make the USA Tax System simple https://t.co/czIDGNiaDE    Phenomenal Leadership Tips from NFLs Best young coach. (this is the bloke with the get back coach  This is what a Get Back Coach is What it's like to be Sean McVay's 'get back' coach | NFL Films Presents)  Dave Kline on Twitter: "Sean McVay is the winningest active NFL coach. He's 35 years-old & 3 other current NFL head coaches worked for him. Sean McVay's leadership principles for Competitive Greatness

2022 has produced a focus on gender inequality in the accounting industry with both CAANZ and Intuit producing detailed reports about the current state of play.  Sometimes the story is told as a battle of Men v Women and that likely won't produce results that bring positive returns to firm owners and positive experiences for accountants impacted.  For many, actively engaging in the gender pay gap can be scary, for many, the floor is lava and we don't want to fall.  But without awareness progress can't happen so From The Trenches is proud to present this episode together with Intuit Quickbooks and their new Gender Equity in the Accounting Profession report   Get the Report Here  https://www.accountantsdaily.com.au/gender-equity-in-accounting-addressing-the-career-cliff  In this episode David Hosts Intuit Head of Accounting Shaye Thyer who has assembled an epic panel including: Kylie Parker from Lotus Accounts who started her own firm and is one of only 2 female led firms in the 2020 AFR Top 100  Peter McCarthy from Principal Precision  - Taxation Accounting and Management who won the Australian Accounting Awards Diversity and Inclusion Award.  Paul Janzs from Professional Partners who advocates for equality so he can help raise his boys to the values he lives in his practice.  See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Listen to hear Paul Meissner flinch as someone who clearly isn't an accountant get's called on and these other fine stories. Best on Ground David There are a lot of acquisitions going on https://www.datadear.com/blog/2021/09/we-are-pleased-to-announce-the-technology-acquisition-of-datadear-by-intuit/?fbclid=IwAR0D2o4544adL3nTl8CZkh0G1pgC5oKN2suk0WZWdMs1kQDPcmCuyB8eO5o  https://www.enterprisetimes.co.uk/2021/10/05/sage-buys-proposal-software-vendor-goproposal/  https://www.afr.com/companies/financial-services/hub24-to-triple-customer-base-with-class-deal-20211018-p590sr    Elon Musk is an Accountant  https://www-businessinsider-com-au.cdn.ampproject.org/v/s/www.businessinsider.com.au/elon-musk-productivity-hack-daily-routine-5-minute-slots-2021-10/amp?amp_gsa=1&_js_v=a6&usqp=mq331AQIKAGwASCAAgM%3D#amp_tf=From%20%251%24s&aoh=16342519063940&csi=0&referrer=https%3A%2F%2Fwww.google.com     Paul   ChangeGPS is Xero's Practice App of the Year https://www.linkedin.com/posts/davidboyar_xeroawards-unbeatableaccountants-activity-6853906282974474240-0Z7M   Practice Protect Cloud Apps report is one glorious set of actual data that let's you know what apps firms are using. https://hub.practiceprotect.com/cloud-apps-report-2021  Orange Girl herds Xero's sh*t fixing team in a glorious corporate response https://twitter.com/orangegirlnz/status/1443927056669155364     Worst on Ground David When award winners go to jail https://twitter.com/eringriffith/status/1443563933357395978/photo/1  ITR pricing is too cheap https://www.linkedin.com/posts/activity-6849466529642352640-lqAH/   Paul A 5 year old blog isn't relevant anymore so don't post it on socials  https://www.linkedin.com/posts/markwickersham1_the-3-reasons-you-should-have-a-brochure-activity-6845718677178851328-cvLy    Linked in Polls need to stop     See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

David chats to ICB CEO Amanda Linton and Beyond Blue Deputy Chair Kate Carnell about why we should view investment in Mental Health training the same way we view investment in technology.  Register for their Summit Session https://summit.fromthetrenches.com.au/talks/mental-health-session/   Sign up to the New Access Program https://www.beyondblue.org.au/get-support/newaccess  See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

What happened? It was Orange, it was loved, now it's Dext, it's three things not one and got dealt a savage hand by pockets of the social media world.  But the strategy makes sense if you dig in to it.  Listen to David Boyar ask Paul Lodder - Product Domain Expert (and a seriously accomplished accountant), What happened to Receipt Bank? Want more?  Register for Paul's session at Trenches Summit " https://summit.fromthetrenches.com.au/talks/dext-keynote/  See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

54 Speakers 5 Industry Bodies 19 Event Partners 2 Plucky Hosts  1 Awards session Stupid amounts of CPD  September 13 and 14 2021 https://summit.fromthetrenches.com.au/  See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Get your early bird tickets to the Trenches Summit right now to keep up to date with a summit that has the best of the best without any of the worst. https://summit.fromthetrenches.com.au/coming-soon/ Best on Ground Paul   Speed Dating with your work hat off  helps you compare apples with apples when considering tech solutions. David  Learning has genuine value – it's the only way to improve anything that is keeping you down. Trent McLaren (Divi Pay) The side events, it feels like a 5 day music festival – Accountingpalooza  Jack Kay (ChangeGPS) The best ones are when expectation meets reality. Content is focused without marketing spin     Worst on Ground Paul    When tech delivers content outside the core problem the tech solves (wait for the stoush with Trent over why). David  Too many speaking slots in narrow talent pool. The slots are becuase vendors paid even if they don't have quality content to deliver. Trent  With a Vendor Hat on it's clear the pay to play model make ROI didn't correlate . Events who used to charge 20k for an inperson event shouldn't charge 20k for a virtual one. Content programs are commercially led and commercial outcomes can conflict with attendee priorities    See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Compliance is not dead, but it's not perfect so David Boyar interviews Paul Meissner to get the state of compliance revenue. The biggest problem is how revenue is generated. Some tech companies try to solve this by assuming revenue from compliance is a dying source but no one in practice really believes it's going anywhere. In this episode David Boyar interviews Paul Meissner to find the three problems with how revenue is generated from compliance services.  It's too easy to discount Too many services are bundled into the annual fix fee Don't do the annual price increase "just because you can" Some of these points may be relevant to you, some may bolster your confidence in what you are currently doing and some, well they might make you mad.          See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

A linked in post titled Cotchy Vs Xero shows how well the accountant, Pat Mannix from Paris Financial, understood his clients (startups) and how different they were to the needs of his traditional 70 staff practice in Melbourne. Like most accountants Pat is passionate about what matters to his business, and his clients. Listen to hear why:- Client’s by because of the service they get not the tech the accountants use Discretionary (Family) Trusts are still an excellent tool for saving tax Accountants know more about SMSF’s than most other professionals yet still can’t advise on the them properly. Agree? Disagree? Think more info is needed? JOIN THE CHAT on www.fromthetrenches.com.au  Read the responses first! Response: Rebecca Mihalic FCA - When a family trust is not right for a trading entity  Response: Grant Abbott - How To: Use Deeds to Overcome Trading Trust Issues See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

The Weekly Challenge The feds are handing out support cash industry group by special interest group. It seems the squeaky wheel is getting the oil as industry leaders claim mass extinction if they don’t get aid:- $1b. For construction Money for the arts Grants for renovations My challenge, is to develop a strategic funding arrangement that set us up for the next century and not whittle away the 60b left from JK! Best on Ground David Boyar This just became the third most loved tweet of all time - the sheer power of words to reach millions blows me away and makes me think of the reach and influence of accountants.  https://twitter.com/andymilonakis/status/1266821069823975430  Business Depot have come up with another new way to engage with clients - ultra low cost and wide reach. If a client on the edge saw this, would they wonder why  http://offers.businessdepot.com.au/rebound-2020  Xero Document Packs have made digital doc signing the hottest tech stack piece of the month  https://www.xero.com/au/features-and-tools/practice-tools/tax/document-packs/?escape=true  Paul Meissner Grant Thornton: The main reasons people enjoyed working from home were the reduced commute time, having the flexibility to manage their own hours, reduced expenses, and having more time for exercise and family. The survey also showed 45 per cent of respondents had some discomfort about returning to the office. More than 60 per cent wanted to work both at home and in the office after reopening and only 9 per cent wanted to exclusively work in the office. https://www.afr.com/companies/professional-services/grant-thornton-kearney-reimagine-the-post-pandemic-office-20200601-p54yc8?utm_medium=social&utm_campaign=nc&utm_source=Facebook#Echobox=1591149136  Ask our competitors sales people to SHOW you each of these features in their software. Not TELL you their software has a feature,  BUT actually SHOW you the feature and HOW the feature works in their software. https://www.bglcorp.com/2020/05/25/not-all-corporate-compliance-and-smsf-admin-software-is-the-same/   Leading in a work-from-home environment, Accountants are exactly the right kind of workers to thrive in a work-from-home environment.  Good summary of the 4 challenges https://www.accountingtoday.com/list/leading-accountants-in-a-work-from-home-environment?utm_source=twitter&utm_campaign=accountingtoday-tw&utm_medium=social&utm_content=socialflow   Worst on Ground  David Boyar Doe’s Paul’s latest Linked In “give the masses what they want” post actually hit the mark? https://www.linkedin.com/feed/update/urn:li:activity:6673610747613978624/?commentUrn=urn%3Ali%3Acomment%3A(activity%3A6673526621976317953%2C6673610640814432256)  Paul Meissner  The Australian Comfort Group, which owns the SleepMaker and Dunlop Foams brands, delayed issuing invoices and the processing of customer orders in April, according to a source and documents seen by The Australian Financial Review. https://www.afr.com/politics/federal/ato-to-investigate-11m-jobkeeper-claim-20200531-p54y16?  “Finance Futurist and Podcast King” https://twitter.com/icmispeakers/status/1267365360145227776?s=20   

NEW SEGMENT!!! With so much change afoot we're challenging our institutions and leaders to actually have the back of the small businesses they keep saying are the backbone of the economy. Paul Meissner: I’ve long been critical of Cosboa, far too friendly with the medium end of SME, Their conference excluded small and micro business. My challenge - don’t screw this up. I’m ready to celebrate the success of this.  https://www.cosboa.org.au/post/small-businesses-set-for-boost-with-spend-local-campaign  David Boyar:IR reform - We need actual representation of small business at the table so it's unions v big corporates https://www.theguardian.com/australia-news/2020/may/28/morrison-government-will-push-on-with-ir-reform-even-if-unions-and-employers-cant-agree Best on Ground Paul Meissner Staying in touch with staff remotely is super important and this is a great quiz. Good example of responding.  https://www.smartcompany.com.au/coronavirus/atlassian-employee-survey-open-source/  Taking the mickey out of your boss isn’t grounds for dismissal apparently. BP dragged this out for 2 years and took it to the federal court. Just for offending management.  https://www.news.com.au/national/courts-law/worker-wins-twoyear-battle-to-take-the-piss-out-of-bosses-with-hitler-meme/news-story/3df34d53f3ceb09886adf0a619d5cb8c  A lot will be written about the future of work and the office. Online booking seems to be an obvious change. Not sure hotdesking dies in the end. Large commercial offices face a bigger test I feel.  https://www.itnews.com.au/news/nab-nixes-hotdesking-in-favour-of-app-bookable-desks-548390  Trust the data, what do you need a human to check it for. There are never errors… Political fighting here is interesting. Treasury is separate to government, staffed with the same people (largely) irrespective to who’s in government. Government always blamed.  https://www.afr.com/policy/tax-and-super/later-60b-jobkeeper-error-discovered-20200522-p54vkm  David Boyar Accountants are the real heroes  https://twitter.com/JosephCarrozzi/status/1263968097389514756 Peter the Great graces accountants  https://us02web.zoom.us/webinar/register/6815904703351/WN_42ybOi-pT6mkRw1II7eBHg Would David be this aggressive in app marketing? Or is it just something BGL can get away with?  https://www.bglcorp.com/2020/05/25/not-all-corporate-compliance-and-smsf-admin-software-is-the-same/ Worst on Ground Paul Meissner Payroll is complex, errors bound to be made. Fair work found for the employee but hard to not see this go higher up the courts.  https://www.afr.com/work-and-careers/workplace/qantas-dealt-blow-over-jobkeeper-payments-20200524-p54vve    https://www.afr.com/companies/professional-services/we-want-you-back-in-the-office-law-firm-tells-partners-20200524-p54vv6  End of year BS tax articles by people who don’t know their stuff.  https://www.westpac.com.au/news/money-matters/2020/04/making-sense-of-wfh-tax-tweak/  David Boyar Advocacy: Too Little too late? https://www.accountantsdaily.com.au/tax-compliance/14412-practitioners-potentially-misled-by-ato-s-jobkeeper-turnover-guidance Does anyone know what EY is talking about?  https://twitter.com/BrandDNA/status/1265280824141701121/photo/1 AI/ML Universities and job ready candidates  https://twitter.com/filippie509/status/1265356259621912576      

Best on Ground Paul Meissner Best and worst. Best - Interesting view admitting that advisory disappeared in the last few months. Worst - Rob Nixon wrote this 10 years ago, firms globally are living this now.  https://www.accountingtoday.com/opinion/our-profession-has-changed-forever  David Boyar Strong Excel Twitter game  https://twitter.com/msexcel/status/1260932882463289345  CA’s transparency on the Exam Issue  https://www.accountantsdaily.com.au/professional-development/14340-ca-anz-issues-mea-culpa-over-exam-hiccup  From the Trenches Live insane NPS is a credit to the community  https://blog.hubspot.com/service/net-promoter-score-benchmarks  Worst on Ground Paul Meissner MYOB cuts 130 jobs and warns of 'artificial economy' https://www.smh.com.au/business/small-business/myob-cuts-130-jobs-and-warns-of-artificial-economy-20200519-p54ua0.html   This is the most basic piece of content so out of touch with members. This content is more basic than what’s covered in the CA program. https://www.charteredaccountantsanz.com/news-and-analysis/insights/opinion/running-your-accounting-practice-in-tough-times-part-2   David Boyar The Tax Institute threatened us with legal action instead of picking up the phone  https://www.fromthetrenches.com.au/podcast/2020/5/12/live-with-ron-lesh-nat-lennon-and-lee-duffield Headline: Death of the Office - Copy: It’s too early to tell  https://www.afr.com/work-and-careers/workplace/the-death-of-the-office-20200507-p54qm0

This is a live recording of our inaugural live web event.  The chat box exploded as the audience interacted with this weeks show and with the awesome feedback we promise Trenches Live will be back soon.  After the usual best and Worst BGL Founder and CEO Ron Lesh is taken of the Lesh and delivers his usual direct shot of reality into the debate amidst calls from the chat box for him to run for PM!  Lee Duffield from All in Advisory and Nat Lennon from Two Sides Accounting,  two brilliant public practitioners, join to answer the questions that matter from those in the trenches What did you learn about yourself? Has your relationship with your business changed? News round up Best on Ground Paul Meissner Accountants and Bookkeepers handling JobKeeper, cash boost, etc. Psychologist (client) story.   Robyn Jacobson moves to the TIA. Interesting given this puts a tenacious advocate for taxpayers in to an organisation that has some clout. Could we see better advocacy from professional bodies?? https://www.taxinstitute.com.au/timediarelease/the-tax-institute-appoints-tax-leader-robyn-jacobson-as-senior-advocate    Tax jokes in TV series. Schitts Creek (Netflix) very funny scene on trying to claim personal stuff as a business expense. https://www.linkedin.com/posts/mark-newman-accountant-for-builders-electricians-trades_thats-not-a-write-off-scene-from-schitts-activity-6661776582073425920-5a0y   David Boyar Early suggestions of tax reform - Nixing Consumption taxes the way GST intended https://www.linkedin.com/feed/news/car-sales-cut-in-half-by-pandemic-5185554/  Is the VCFOA back, great job and reframing different types of advice during a recession https://vcfoassociation.com.au/surviving-and-re-booting-are-2-separate-problems/  The DropBox Blog is beautiful. Relevant and  https://blog.dropbox.com/topics/work-culture/distributed-work-setting-boundaries?utm_source=twitter&utm_medium=social&utm_campaign=distr-work&utm_content=boundaries  Worst on Ground Paul Meissner Professional bodies lack of real support during this time Ineffective in Canberra No tools/resources No additional member contact, not even an email from the org, ceo, etc Only contact was selling/promoting products Hey hey CA video’s, I get it, it was fun, but where’s the practical effort. David Boyar Small biz accountants not at the table in canberra and thats why everyone got stressed.  The cause of stress wasn’t the ATO updates, it was that legislation did not consider how small biz accountants advise clients. ATO forced to run on its feet 3 big red marks - Accountants exemption, Franking credits, JK rules Bodies did an excellent job explaining AFTER the fact Accountants continually unsung  https://twitter.com/LieletteCalleja/status/1258218705571311616 

Best on Ground Paul Meissner Xero builds good stuff, quickly.  https://go.xero.com/bas/jobkeeper   Denmark has announced any companies registered in tax havens will not be eligible for state aid programmes during the pandemic “The government also said that companies which pay out dividends, buy back own shares or are registered in tax havens won’t be eligible for any of the aid programs, which now amount to a total of 400 billion kroner, when including loans and guarantees.” https://www.bloomberg.com/news/articles/2020-04-18/denmark-extends-business-aid-to-increase-spending-by-15-billion     David Boyar  Quality lessons from GST https://www.linkedin.com/pulse/accountants-six-tips-from-2000-todays-challenges-scott-charlton/?trackingId=3BtqWlT7xMtAGuAO62hSBA%3D%3D Anthony Pratt’s Linked In nails it again - Long Term View https://www.linkedin.com/posts/anthonyjpratt_activity-6659961911041503232-JRQQ  Security Matters: Mailchimp offering 10% to signing up to SSO https://mailchimp.com/help/set-up-a-two-factor-authentication-app-at-login/ Chartered Accountants moved an education and events business online and EVERYONE wins  Worst on Ground Paul Meissner PWC cuts pay but not hours, then with the spare hours the staff were not given, they are forced to ‘volunteer’? Was it the same voluntary method used for the pay cut?? https://www.accountantsdaily.com.au/business/14291-big-four-steps-up-with-largest-pro-bono-tax-offering-amid-covid-19  David Boyar  The ATO has made JobKeeper so easy businesses are doing it themselves - When UX is too good. “If I get one more email about mental health I’ll lose my mind”  David’s Dad 

In this Zoom recorded episode Trent Innes, Xero's head in Au and Asia talks about:- How Xero got their JobKeeper products in the market so quickly Why the Xero Community facebook activity has exploded Tips for managing remote teams What the future of work is Why you need to be responsible for the work/life changes you want to make after this crisis ends. About Us From the Trenches is brought to you by Paul Meissner from Freedom Mentoring and David Boyar from Change GPS. Proudly sponsored by BGL.  

Best on Ground Paul Meissner Great mental health guide shared by Nickie Sheehan https://www.linkedin.com/posts/meissnerpaul_mentalhealth-stress-accountants-activity-6656739104723738624-xqMw  ATO working miracles. For people who will whinge over the coming days and weeks, get over yourself.  Tyler Wise https://www.linkedin.com/posts/tyler-j-wise_in-the-whole-of-my-career-i-do-not-believe-activity-6656836360986603521-u9Mm     David Boyar Apple’s product designs from the 80s clearly show the origins of what we use today  https://www.shockblast.net/apples-product-concepts-of-the-80s/   Will we return to offices? https://www.accountancyage.com/2020/04/14/accountancy-industry-unlikely-to-return-to-office/  Learn why you have this type of stress with James Ashford https://www.linkedin.com/posts/jamesashford_margins-accounting-profit-activity-6656268810712076288-6BdO   Real Collaboration v Fake collaboration  Worst on Ground Paul Meissner Avalara list - Waste of time given all the actual accountants are too busy working   https://www.rise.global/accounting-top-100  Just for your amusement - HR Software selling tax advice. Opportunistic.  https://www.jobkeeperhelp.com.au   David Boyar What did the 45% of firms who either increased business or stayed the same do differently to those who decreased business  https://www.accountantsdaily.com.au/resources/polls/260-how-has-covid-19-impacted-your-practice  Some covid infographics make your understanding worse than before you see them https://www.linkedin.com/posts/frasercreighton_jobkeeper-jobkeeperpayment-caanz-activity-6656440561375027200-ZMmT    

Here's the breath of fresh air you need. A Classiv Paul Vs David - Is this Hell Week? Paul Meissner - YES! Get everyone in there with a grey definition of income for the turnover test Multiple stages to this, register, enrol, meet wage condition (payroll STP), employee details, monthly reporting Become clients Payroll officer is not something accountants want High stakes, high risk Cost of missing out is huge for a client Scheme penalties are intimidating Doing it for clients, vs clients doing it themselves. Us doing it is an hour on the phone, going alone leads to 10-15 phone calls about logins, business details, etc, will they pay. David Boyar - No!  COMPLIANCE LIVES  It's just a process that will have a best practice my mid week ATO has made engagement easy (if the bandwidth holds up) Clients have had the emotional detox and are now working out what's next, easier to work with Prediction: Fake Stress You must charge, there is no point working for a month, under high risk. If there is risk there must be return  

Best on Ground Paul Meissner This AI-powered robot can make 300 pizzas in an hour. Wanted to start with something lite given the week we are all having.  https://www.facebook.com/watch/?v=509562289686979  Laneway Greens online Pivoted online. Busier and more profitable than ever. Staff costs and complexity and inflated rents have held businesses back. We come out of all this running different businesses.   https://lanewaygreens.com.au/  David Boyar How the world’s changed by our online spending habits  https://www.linkedin.com/posts/activity-6652304588353478656-ul_T   Worst on Ground Paul Meissner Federal Government Jobkeeper legislation by press release. I’m sick of it. Legislation released that basically says the Treasurer and the ATO Commissioner have to sort it out.  Massive section on schemes though. Up to 10 years Jail!! Big 4 swindle: KPMG cutting staff pay, but not their hours. Wait, what? While the firm technically needs permission from staff to alter their employment contracts, head of people and corporate affairs Deborah Yates told them via email on Tuesday that, "unless we hear from you to state otherwise, we will move forward on the basis that you understand what the intended changes mean for you and you agree to those changes". https://www.afr.com/companies/professional-services/kpmg-pay-cut-scares-workers-into-silence-20200406-p54hgs  https://www.ft.com/content/65d8e851-5e33-4a2d-a814-a4c27f949dd3?sharetype=blocked  David Boyar Bookkeepers still promoting a rivalry with accountants as the fight over who owns BAS and payroll gets ugly. Get rid of it please, we don’t need your insecurities in the client relationship    Accountants are out here helping each other and these marketers are trying to cash in by paying for COVID Content  https://clickcampaigns.com.au/complimentary-covid19-stimulus-articles/  

This episode is a personal reflection on what the Accounting industry is going through at the moment. Accountants are handling a mountain of client queries and every day seems like an avalanche of emotional conversations with clients. It’s stretched many accountants and bookkeepers to the limits both physically and emotionally.  In this episode, Paul & David share what their last few weeks have been like, celebrate the tremendous efforts the industry has gone to look after each other and what we are focusing on.  We are all in this together and by looking after each other we’ll carry our clients through this.   Paul Meissner  Hell, hardest in career The unknown, misinformation Clients assuming they’ll all get a giant novelty cheque Legislation by press release (still don’t know a lot about Jobkeeper) Support of other accountants has been wonderful.   David Boyar   Very hard to turn off and find a balance between reading new info (info overload) talking to peers, talking to friends, planning family response, managing the volunteer boards I chair Originally lost weight but turns out it’s because I wasn't eating - hard to find health balance New type of tired, I’m on the phone for 6-7 hours a day Found the “were in this together” motherhood statements a bit anxiety inducing. It’s easy to put out a tweet, hard to call someone and ask how they are What are/can we focus on Paul Meissner  Client communication (emails) Working the phones Weekend switch off. Last friday-Sunday was interesting David Boyar Ordinary rhythm needs to return because our regular tasks still need to get done.  BAS lodgments before 28 April 2020   Applications for Loan Funding  Bank Assistance  FBT  Tax Planning for 2020  Cash Flow and Strategy Planning for when business starts up again.

BEST ON GROUND Paul Meissner Compliance is king Baby!!!!! - Jobkeeper, jobseeker, 30% revenue fall, monthly? Quarterly? Bank loans, ATO debt management.  Accountants. We are doing it tough but we are also helping each other and supporting each other. Well done. Taking a moment to celebrate @Ron_Lesh 31 years of service @BGLdot. Thank you for your amazing #leadership, support, example, mentoring and friendship. You are a super star plus a great warrior for the Accounting Industry.  David Boyar Positive stories of businesses pivoting quickly to support COVID19 - https://www.reddit.com/r/marketing/comments/fswwc5/best_company_pivots_to_covid19/?utm_medium=android_app&utm_source=share Centrelink forms are the peak of your career https://www.facebook.com/groups/977122739056681/permalink/2429722997129974/   End to End client group webinars for accountants, no tech integrations, keep your library, get paid - https://memberstream.com.au/  WORST ON GROUND Paul Meissner  “Corona is an opportunity” says the so called ‘Guru Influencer’. Carries on about Amazon hiring. These people have lost their sales and are scrambling for importance - https://www.linkedin.com/posts/therobbrown_accountancy-accounting-accountant-activity-6649640123229143040-pBcD/ Software Pricing strategies. Some good some bad. - https://www.bglcorp.com/2020/03/30/it-is-disappointing-to-see-some-software-providers-price-gouging/ Another Marketing and sales trainer for Accountants copying others. The GAP are copying Change GPS David Boyar Good intention from the TPB but were all covered for CPD this year! - https://twitter.com/messages/3024658393-961565477330812928 I thought the big 4 weren't going to employ accountants any more? - https://www.theguardian.com/world/2020/apr/01/australias-legal-accounting-and-financial-firms-brace-for-coronavirus-jobs-fallout

This interview with Mackay Goodwin founder Dom Calabretta gives you expert insight into retail, restaurants and key things accountants need to know before tipping a company into liquidation or voluntary administration.    Dom and his team are offering From the Trenches listeners a free 20 minute consultation to discuss your client client’s situation.  To claim your free consultation with Mackay Goodwin head to https://www.mackaygoodwin.com.au/   Mackay Goodwin are proud sponsors of From the Trenches

Thanks for waiting as Paul and David co-ordinated their COVID-19 responses to clients over the week. This episode was recorded Week ended 6 March, don't worry we'll get up to date next week!  BEST ON GROUND Paul Meissner Finally some practical rather than fear based information. Great Jacinda Ardern video, these infographics and a blog from Gusto’s Will Lopez.  https://www.newshub.co.nz/home/politics/2020/03/watch-health-experts-join-jacinda-ardern-to-dispel-some-coronavirus-covid-19-myths.html  https://informationisbeautiful.net/visualizations/covid-19-coronavirus-infographic-datapack/ https://www.linkedin.com/posts/wlopezjr_an-employers-guide-to-navigating-coronavirus-activity-6643188048160964608-Eg1X   David Boyar Follow Anthony Pratt on Twitter - NOW! https://www.linkedin.com/posts/anthonyjpratt_activity-6642814189863874560-ckBb/  Tips for working from home (with or without corona virus) https://www.instagram.com/p/B9hFplfAu7P/?igshid=17n629udacfu2  How do you recruit a BD role for your firm? Surely the Firms BDM needs to be an accountant.  https://www.seek.com.au/job/41134304   WORST ON GROUND Paul Meissner  IWB Marketing, is IWD becoming the new Valentines Day type of Hallmark holiday? Marketed awards and cupcakes? What about real discussions and real change where required.    In The Guardian Alexandra Topping observed IWD “is in danger of becoming little more than a corporate Valentine’s Day, with companies jumping on the bandwagon to whitewash their brands rather than promote women’s equality”. https://womensagenda.com.au/latest/the-last-thing-women-need-is-iwd-a-corporate-version-of-mothers-day/  Justin Kan’s hybrid legal software and law firm startup Atrium is shutting down today after failing to figure out how to deliver better efficiency than a traditional law firm, the CEO tells TechCrunch exclusively. The startup has now laid off all its employees, which totaled just over 100. It will return some of its $75.5 million in funding to investors, including Series B lead Andreessen Horowitz. The separate Atrium law firm will continue to operate. https://techcrunch.com/2020/03/03/atrium-shuts-down/? KPMG retakes independence exam amid cheating scandal.  All 600-odd KPMG Australia partners and more than 5900 client-facing staff will be forced to resit the consulting firm's internal independence exam amid an investigation into cheating on the annual assessment. The firm has taken the unprecedented step after a whistleblower complaint that model answers to the 20-question multiple choice exam at the end of the course were being improperly shared. https://www.afr.com/companies/professional-services/kpmg-retakes-independence-exam-amid-cheating-scandal-20200308-p547xn    David Boyar We’re having the wrong conversation about Scott Cam’s 300k pay packet. https://twitter.com/DavidBoyar/status/1237308986975760384?s=20  Can we ban banks saying they are open for business? https://www.smh.com.au/business/banking-and-finance/josh-frydenberg-meets-bank-bosses-over-coronavirus-hit-20200311-p548xj.html   About Us From the Trenches is brought to you by Paul Meissner from Freedom Mentoring and David Boyar from Change GPS. Proudly sponsored by BGL and The Outsourced Accountant.

David Boyar https://dynamicbusiness.com.au/topics/news/senators-urged-to-pass-equity-bill-that-could-see-smes-flourish.html  Don’t reinvent the wheel with political point projects Fund national infrastructure priorities https://www.infrastructureaustralia.gov.au/sites/default/files/2020-02/current_priority_list_%20february_2020.pdf https://www.infrastructureaustralia.gov.au/sites/default/files/2020-03/2020_infrastructure_priority_list_low_resolution_-_updated.pdf  Government backed investment in start ups  Extend australian business growth fund (proposed at 500m) Paul Meissner Expand the capital allowance regime to include stock in limited circumstances. Timing difference so budget neutral but could really help some businesses recover and survive.   Increase the availability of lending, bank guarantee type stuff. Get the cash flowing Certainly not politically motivated cash handouts. Cost too much for limited gain. Smart tax cuts. Tax cuts only work if you have made money. Loss carry back rules would specifically target businesses with a profit history that have faced a downturn.    About Us From the Trenches is brought to you by Paul Meissner from Freedom Mentoring and David Boyar from Change GPS. Proudly sponsored by BGL and The Outsourced Accountant.

BEST ON GROUND David Boyar An actual solution to app overwhelm   https://www.linkedin.com/posts/clarity-street_claritystreet-accountingbusinessexpo-guidedtour-activity-6640510264502476800-FZga  The only Coronavirus question worth asking - Can my SMSF buy toilet paper? https://twitter.com/samrotberg/status/1234951004853948416?s=20 Is corporate compliance the saviour of bookkeepers? https://twitter.com/DTramma/status/1235086009336885248?s=20 Welcome back to the fat corporate credit cards and account execs as 500 Audits jobs hit the market. https://www.afr.com/companies/professional-services/the-audit-quality-inquiry-interim-recommendations-at-a-glance-20200303-p546ez Paul Meissner BGL is Xero’s app partner of the month https://www.linkedin.com/posts/ronlesh_bgl-making-compliance-easy-in-the-cloud-activity-6640031630868217856-EayO/ Breaking free of datacenter legacy thinking Data storage on glass https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=W0ntAnqJ_7c&feature=youtu.be Three social media terms that I wish would die: 1. Storytelling 2. Authenticity  3. Thought leadership I hate them because at best they are meaningless, and at worst they are misleading. The Thought Leadership part is hilarious.  https://twitter.com/mkobach/status/1234300379107676160 UK finally allows digital signing of Trust deeds.  https://www.lawgazette.co.uk/law/electronically-signed-deeds-are-legal-lord-chancellor-confirms/5103306.article#.Xl5xGi0XAFs.twitter   WORST ON GROUND David Boyar Yikes, Deloitte gets slammed, and rightly so.  https://www.accountantsdaily.com.au/business/14092-full-federal-court-rips-into-deloitte-appeal A deeper understanding of accounting explains why movie food is such a rip off.  https://twitter.com/investing_city/status/1234908202577231872?s=20 https://twitter.com/plalor/status/1235020236878794752?s=20  Paul Meissner Corona Vivus and the mass hysteria. Media to blame. Quickbook Connect cancelled (only major Accounting cancellation (for now). F1 GP is still on. Toilet paper gate.  https://www.accountingweb.co.uk/tech/tech-pulse/quickbooks-connect-cancelled-due-to-coronavirus-fears A chartered accountant, Mr Nisbet was a senior manager at KPMG for over a decade before his most recent role as a director at BDO’s Adelaide office. Mr Nisbet said he aims to demonstrate his worth as an active tax adviser, rather than a reactive one, in his new role. “A reactive tax adviser lodges tax returns, gets defensive and careful under audit, and is able to get the job done. However, they are not necessarily the first person a client calls outside of compliance season,” Mr Nisbet said. “Aside from delivering technically accurate advice and quality thought leadership to clients, an active tax adviser knows that tax decisions are not made in a vacuum. “Tax advisers must gain their clients’ trust to offer honest appraisals, provide a ‘whole of firm’ approach to solving problems and identify opportunities outside the box.” https://www.accountantsdaily.com.au/appointments/14096-new-mid-tier-principal-calls-for-more-active-advisers Pre-insolvency industry has far too many skeletons. Sad that it happens but glad they get caught and dealt with.  https://www.accountantsdaily.com.au/business/14085-money-laundering-pre-insolvency-adviser-gets-5-years-jail   About Us From the Trenches is brought to you by Paul Meissner from Freedom Mentoring and David Boyar from Change GPS. Proudly sponsored by BGL and The Outsourced Accountant.

In this special episode David interviews Malcolm Stewart from MJS Business & Financial Services. Malcolm met David at the Perth Xero Roadshow and asked to be on the podcast. Turns out we’re in the business of making dreams come true.  In this episode you will learn: The best, safest investment strategy Managing through the wealth industry revenue model changes Managing a practice through the mining boom, and after it! Malcolm’s favorite tech change (My Prosperity integrating with X Plan) Why older accountants struggle with the physicality of the FASEA exams  Old school targeted marketing. A paper solution to a digital problem.  www.sendhandwritten.com.au About Us From the Trenches is brought to you by Paul Meissner from Freedom Mentoring and David Boyar from Change GPS. Proudly sponsored by BGL and The Outsourced Accountant.

BEST ON GROUND David Boyar Accounting Business Expo has made major changes to the lineup   https://www.terrapinn.com/exhibition/accounting-business-expo/The-Plenary.stm You are competing on user experience only https://www.linkedin.com/feed/update/urn:li:activity:6635430455967612928/ The importance of compliance professionals  https://www.eurekareport.com.au/investment-news/the-importance-of-compliance-professionals/146747?mkt_tok=eyJpIjoiTXpJM09EQXpOR0V3T0dNMSIsInQiOiI0QVpSUzNcL1F5SDk2MTZ4QnUzbmFtdUdVcjI1ZHVyVzI0bmc5azlSQUtqbUJENVFhaGJUcWVKZ1wvOHJuWERiMjVNaFpwNml2M1QyVVRJWjNZYzZHWlYzVkowNUxzVk5YeWRzdEJ6UDBhN0k3OXNuSnUrZmNoRGkzMkxCeEtXa0hrIn0%3D How to pick a visualisation chart  Which Chart Should I Use   Paul Meissner Xero Boss Report 2020. Very interesting growth figures per business size. Small and micro growing, bigger contracting.   Xero Boss Insights 2020 report  Xero release automatic activity statements https://central.xero.com/s/article/Automatic-activity-statements#XeroTax Overpayment of wages are common Overpayment as common as 'wage theft'  S&P/ASX All Technology Index - commencing in Q1, 2020. The S&P/ASX All Technology Index (XTX) is designed to be a broader, more inclusive index than the existing S&P/ASX 200 Information Technology Index.  This reflects the broad range of ASX-listed companies in the technology sector. Further details about the Index methodology will be released upon Index launch. But is Xero the most overvalued stock on the ASX. https://www.livewiremarkets.com/wires/will-we-crash-and-what-to-sell?utm_source=Livewire&utm_medium=twitter&utm_campaign=Will%20we%20crash    WORST ON GROUND David Boyar The FBT guide for employers is 277 pages. If compliance is dead, business owners are stuffed  ttps://www.ato.gov.au/law/view/document?docid=SAV/FBTGEMP/00001&PiT=20200129000001 Killing pre-advisory before it gets off the ground   Paul Meissner Celeste Barber was warned about choice of firefighter fund  Buy now, pay later companies are completely unregulated and it's leaving Australians vulnerable, Splitit CEO Brad Paterson argues    About Us From the Trenches is brought to you by Paul Meissner from Freedom Mentoring and David Boyar from Change GPS. Proudly sponsored by BGL and The Outsourced Accountant.

BEST ON GROUND David Boyar The IPA reckon play is a flashback to the glory days of quickbooks re entering the market, but with a genuine CPD benefit  https://email.publicaccountants.org.au/v/54796/32838338/email.html?k=qVWxTtVmHbh-BjRjW1DRerTjS2nWTWtv0cF5ROg5K38  How good and easy to read is this excel summary.  https://www.linkedin.com/posts/lotfi-garzoun_the-definitive-100-most-useful-excel-tips-activity-6635135119499816960-_7Wh/    Paul Meissner Definition of advisory? a great article by Elaine Clark, where she restates her love of compliance and says: “I guess the only fault about compliance accountants is that, generally, they do not shout about how good they are at what they do and the services that they provide. They just do it!” Yet the so-called ‘twittersphere’ and ‘blogosphere’ are full of all sorts telling us that compliance is dead and we can only exist as an advisory practice. This statement alone shows exactly how little they know about what we do and how we do it. It shows their ignorance of the work of thousands of accountants across the UK who work tirelessly and with great professionalism and ability. They are already advisory practices, but just happen to be advisory practices that don’t use the software or systems that they are trying to sell us. Accountancy practices already are Advisory practices  AI Data bias https://www.weforum.org/agenda/2019/09/men-women-books?   WORST ON GROUND David Boyar When someone says you should read more they’re ignoring everything that makes you you  https://twitter.com/PropellerAdv/status/1227757368563208192   Accountants don’t understand their own influence, even if it’s just on twitter.  https://twitter.com/investing_city/status/1228137010776305665   Paul Meissner Brutal Valentines day breakup message. :-) https://twitter.com/ato_gov_au/status/1228132839889096704?s=20  Trent Mclaren’s re posted bubble in a bubble Xero Roadshow data shows people find community  Facebook Groups Xero live events Linked In  https://www.linkedin.com/pulse/weve-created-accounting-bubble-now-were-all-trapped-inside-mclaren   About Us From the Trenches is brought to you by Paul Meissner from Freedom Mentoring and David Boyar from Change GPS. Proudly sponsored by BGL and The Outsourced Accountant.

BEST ON GROUND David Boyar What if we think about change as a way to reduce our own redundancy risk? https://generationcfo.com/2020/02/11/automation- redundancy-risk-is-fake-news-heres-why-part-two/ PI Women in accounting The best summary of the receipt app race right now. https://www.accountingweb.com/technology/accounting-software-news/come-place-your-bets-in-the-data-capture-casino#.XkHk7qjSHsU.linkedin Another accountant trials a 4 day work week - what are the unexpected benefits of this. https://blog.connacc.nz/the-four-day-working-week-a-trial-for-connected-accountants/ Paul Meissner XLOOKUP in Excel. Hallelujah!!!  https://www.cbronline.com/news/xlookup-excel  AFR claim the court got it wrong, I say they got it right. Bulks up an argument for main residence test. I’d rather 100% tax free than 50%.  https://www.afr.com/policy/tax-and-super/the-wrong-call-small-business-hit-by-cgt-concession-ruling-20200206-p53ygd    WORST ON GROUND David Boyar QR codes aren't new and dont work.  https://www.linkedin.com/posts/stevenleaney_business-cards-are-something-that-havent-activity-6632503913545297920-jRsO/  Offshoring will not - repeat will NOT reduce jobs https://theoutsourcedaccountant.com/blog/does-outsourcing-cost-local-jobs/ Paul Meissner $8m in tax avoidance out of PKF. Big firm, interesting the lack of oversight. The charges include knowingly lodging nine false income tax returns on behalf of the client and concealing, destroying and knowingly providing forged evidence in response to a Tax Office audit.  https://www.afr.com/wealth/tax/tax-partner-accused-of-evading-8m-for-client-20200211-p53zpw  How to damage staff morale. Partners get free breakfast while staff are told to drink less milk.  https://www.afr.com/rear-window/kpmg-partners-exclusive-breakfast-service-20200210-p53zek  David’s demo skills   About Us From the Trenches is brought to you by Paul Meissner from Freedom Mentoring and David Boyar from Change GPS. Proudly sponsored by BGL and The Outsourced Accountant.

BEST ON GROUND David Boyar Accountants building their own communities to support each other through tech change  https://www.eventbrite.com.au/e/accountants-tech-user-group-tickets-90561902087 The CA automation playbook shows how the bodies can guide and lead without showing preference.  https://charteredaccountantsanz.force.com/MyCA/s/login/?startURL=%2FMyCA%2Fs%2Ffeed%2F0D52u000001mzqTCAQ&ec=302 The #VDExperiment is a marketing masterstroke by Twyla Verhelst from helm but jus because you can doesn’t mean you should. Check out this great Linked in explainer from HLB Mann Judd Partner Josh Chye explaining Family Trusts. https://www.linkedin.com/posts/josh-chye-b4924a31_taxplanning-taxes-trusts-ugcPost-6629846910117257216-dtIE/  Paul Meissner Congratulations to Amreeta and the Nowinfinity team. $25m sale to Class. Interesting that Class’s head of sales moved on. Does that open the door to Ben Gill taking on the role? Do the sales cultures align? Time will tell.  SMSF platform makes $25m acquisition  Dilatory accounting cost Dixons £1.8m. For 8 years this business kept amounts open as accounts receivable. Not great year end accounting procedures not to write off earlier.  Dilatory accounting cost Dixons £1.8m  Afterpay, Zip Co get in first with code of practice. It’s a good start with some practical protections for consumers. One wonders what’s missing since there is no independence given the rules are written by those abiding by them. I’d like to write my own views.   Afterpay, Zip Co get in first with code of practice    WORST ON GROUND David Boyar Marketers are geniuses and people are stupid https://www.businessinsider.com.au/coronavirus-corona-beer-not-related-google-trends-2020-1  Will MyGovID work for offshore staff? Paul Meissner Open Banking - What will be the outcome? Predicted to “...“That completely takes the friction out of applying for a mortgage,”. Anyone who has applied for a mortgage knows that the more info you give the more issues come up in the application. I think Open Banking is a poisoned Chalice.  Open banking and rise of fintechs to disrupt big banks' 'rivers of gold'  Canberra urged to join the data sharing action - CBA displays a typical protectionist strategy against having to give up data by greedily demanding more.  Canberra urged to join the data sharing action  Chat about football or cricket in the workplace should be curtailed, a management body has warned. Chartered Management Institute head Ann Francke said sports banter can exclude women and lead to laddish behaviour such as chat about sexual conquests. "A lot of women, in particular, feel left out," she told the BBC's Today programme. Nanny state gone mad. What would the reaction be if this was to be excluding men?  Firms urged to crack down on office football chat 

Paul Meissner Advice to my younger self Comes from: https://twitter.com/AliciaLMoreau/status/1206751875686469633?s=20 Try anything (audit, reception, advisory or compliance) Extra 1hr per day makes a big impact, especially technical reading or asking why  Make the right decision with the right information Don't be outcome focused, just be your best Client communication - personal interaction, not all online Output focused, not time focused (timesheet issue) David Boyar Fun work is still work  Keep Stumbling  Call out for help (mental help episode)  Network is only worth what you give to people. Keep giving  About Us From the Trenches is brought to you by Paul Meissner from Freedom Mentoring and David Boyar from Change GPS. Proudly sponsored by BGL and The Outsourced Accountant.

BEST ON GROUND Paul Meissner Lodgement dates automatically extended till May. Aligns with other dates. Smart and practical. https://www.ato.gov.au/Media-centre/Media-releases/ATO-extends-tax-relief-and-assistance-for-people-impacted-by-bushfires/  Trent Mclaren tweeted this interesting review of robot restaurants failing. Including a reference to Zume, the pizza bot we had on the show before. Reminds me of the factory automation research that showed co-bots being the most efficient https://www.businessinsider.com.au/san-francisco-robot-restaurants-failing-eatsa-cafex-2020-1  From tax commissioner to PM, the Russian experiment https://twitter.com/7newssydney/status/1217519639460106240?s=21  David Boyar Labor dumps the Franking Credit Policy  - accountants should view it as a win https://www.theaustralian.com.au/nation/politics/labor-vows-not-to-take-the-same-franking-credits-policy-to-the-next-election/news-story/50eb8466897ba6a8cdf74dcc2e7f6d30   Disappointing that something as positive as grants and loans (with 2 years interest free and .6% interest) are given a negative spin https://www.smartcompany.com.au/business-advice/politics/morrison-bushfire-small-business/  Remember Emma Tibbils? Here’s how a high performing young CA asses her employment options. https://www.linkedin.com/posts/emma-tibballs-3805b8a6_ideas-career-impacts-activity-6613522602877169664-dAOt    About Us From the Trenches is brought to you by Paul Meissner from Freedom Mentoring and David Boyar from Change GPS. Proudly sponsored by BGL and The Outsourced Accountant.

Accounting predictions for marketers are what the budget summary email is for accountants. Everyone rushes to get theirs out first and they almost all the same. Predictions are the new content fodder to grab your attention at the start of year and whilst we dislike content for contents sake we have a few things to say about what’s going to be important in 2020. So here are our predictions to help you know what to focus on, and what to ignore. Paul Some add ons will fold/run out of money Compliance holds as 80% of revenue for the majority of small firms Professional bodies have a chance to return to relevance. Catalyst success to continue The Joint accounting bodies unite together to fight for the return of the accountants exemption.  Conferences change forever (end of Accountech?, last chance for ABE) The amount of business coaches for Accountants will peek out as the market gets sick of them   David . Governance for accounting businesses will increase as more advisory work is done (all types of advisory), some firms are already struggling with PI. The accounting bodies to work closer with members Decade old ideas go mainstream Moving to cloud Cloud documentation Automation and efficiency focus (more than new service lines) People give up on value pricing as being too hard The cutting edge firms will worry less about tech and more about client and staff experience   About Us From the Trenches is brought to you by Paul Meissner from Freedom Mentoring and David Boyar from Change GPS. Proudly sponsored by BGL and The Outsourced Accountant.

G'day! Welcome back to season 4! Best on Ground The ATO shows off its data strength with Bushfire support - Automated lodgement deferrals by postcode. Software can’t do that.  Receipt Bank raises $73m to dislodge everything we thought about the Xero/Hubdoc move of 2019 (so last year).   https://www.receipt-bank.com/blog/receipt-bank-raises-73m-in-series-c-round/  Check out these tools for accountants to help with bushfire victims  IPA: https://www.publicaccountant.com.au/news/ipa-offers-support-to-bushfire-victims  CA: https://www.charteredaccountantsanz.com/news-and-analysis/news/australian-bushfires-support-resources-for-you-your-clients-and-communities  CPA: https://www.cpaaustralia.com.au/professional-resources/business-management/business-recovery/disaster-recovery-toolkit  Indinero founder calls out Intuit for over hyping AI and ML  https://futurefirm.co/indinero-the-accounting-firm-of-the-future/  Worst on Ground Accountants without significant new training are not business advisers but this message comes from someone who has been advocating the opposite for years.  https://www.accountantsdaily.com.au/business/13895-accountants-cautioned-on-advisory-jump David can’t work out if this comment is a joke or not but it highlights the tech challenge the average firm is struggling with.”Our organisation does not have access to a smart phone so can I go back to lodging paper returns?” https://www.accountantsdaily.com.au/technology/13731-ato-details-mygovid-implementation-roadmap#!/ccomment-comment=8264 What's your social media obligation when posting old content? About Us From the Trenches is brought to you by Paul Meissner from Freedom Mentoring and David Boyar from Change GPS. Proudly sponsored by BGL and The Outsourced Accountant.

BEST ON GROUND Paul Meissner Xero nab integration vs online banking Paid in Xero vs free online banking Still need online banking for account transfers Not all bills in Xero (including payment details) Wages payment don’t create a bill in Xero Office 365 rollout for global big 4 https://www.techcircle.in/2019/12/06/kpmg-earmarks-5-bn-digital-transformation-push-enters-into-five-year-pact-with-microsoft Great visualisation of the Timeline of startup funding: https://www.linkedin.com/posts/luiserazo_startupfunding-activity-6607792953941458944-EuY3  David Boyar Xero Hubdoc BE on Time Revenue analysis Features: need to use Xero Expenses Good for xero What does it mean for open eco system (Function v verticle)  Social comms  The Data Visualisation of the year award goes to…... https://www.theage.com.au/national/victoria/what-is-a-standard-serve-of-minimum-chips-one-man-is-trying-to-find-out-20191202-p53g3y.html  Incredible transparancy from a franchisor in Russia https://www.linkedin.com/feed/update/urn:li:activity:6610152918978965504/ Finally a valuable facebook group that doesn’t end in big noting or time wasting complaints https://www.facebook.com/groups/977122739056681/ WORST ON GROUND Paul Meissner Corporate compliance startup attacks incumbents and gets called out. https://www.linkedin.com/posts/luke-moran-professional_too-many-asic-compliance-software-providers-activity-6608115595936440321-LHUT  David Boyar 50% of companies behind on lease standard implementation https://www.accountantsdaily.com.au/tax-compliance/13825-over-50-of-organisations-falling-short-on-lease-accounting-standards   About Us From the Trenches is brought to you by Paul Meissner from Freedom Mentoring and David Boyar from Sequel CFO. Proudly sponsored by BGL and The Outsourced Accountant.