Growing Your Firm | Strategies for Accountants, CPA's, Bookkeepers , and Tax Professionals

In this episode of Growing Your Firm, host David Crostello welcomes back Geoff Bruskin, founder of White Tiger Connections, to discuss the evolving landscape of talent in the accounting profession. Geoff shares insights from his extensive experience in mergers and acquisitions (M&A) for CPA firms, emphasizing the growing importance of talent acquisition and retention in today's market. He outlines the dual trends of M&A and talent, as well as the impact of technology on these areas. Additionally, Geoff introduces his recent venture into business brokerage, helping CPA clients sell their businesses, further enhancing the services offered to the accounting community. Tune in for a thought-provoking conversation that explores how firms can leverage talent and technology to thrive in a competitive environment. Geoff Bruskin is a distinguished figure in the realm of mergers and acquisitions (M&A) within the accounting profession, known for his innovative approach to talent acquisition and business growth strategies. As the founder and leader of White Tiger Connections, Geoff has dedicated his career to facilitating transactions that empower CPA firms to thrive in an increasingly competitive landscape. His expertise extends beyond M&A; he is also a recognized authority in recruiting for the CPA profession, helping firms not only to grow through acquisitions but also to build robust teams that drive sustainable success.

In this episode of Growing Your Firm, host David Cristello welcomes K.C. Eames, the Director of Client Accounting Services at Dark Horse CPAs. The conversation delves into the complexities of pricing in client accounting services (CAS) and the nuances that make it both an art and a science. K.C. shares insights about the unique structure of Dark Horse CPAs, contrasting it with traditional accounting firms that operate on a pyramid model. The episode emphasizes the importance of understanding both the quantifiable and intuitive aspects of pricing, particularly as firms navigate the evolving landscape of CAS best practices.  Tune in to discover valuable strategies for enhancing your firm's operations and achieving your goals faster.

In this episode of the Growing Your Firm podcast, host David Cristello welcomes Alan Whitman, the former CEO and chairman of Baker Tilly. Alan shares his remarkable journey of transforming Baker Tilly from a $475 million firm to a $1.5 billion powerhouse.  Throughout the conversation, Alan describes how businesses can thrive – largely by prioritizing strategy over aimless “accumulation.” Alan Whitman is a seasoned leader in the accounting and advisory industry, known for his transformative role as the former CEO and Chairman of Baker Tilly. As leader, he successfully scaled the organization from $475 million to $1.5 billion, demonstrating a keen understanding of strategic growth and operational maturity.  Currently, Alan runs an advisory practice where he shares his expertise in scaling firms and implementing best practices for growth. He is a sought-after speaker and thought leader, regularly publishing insights on leadership and organizational development through his weekly newsletter.  Alan is also active on LinkedIn, where he connects with professionals across the industry.

In this episode of the Growing Your Firm podcast, David Cristello welcomes Dawn Goldberg, a seasoned CPA and a Certified Professional Coach.  Dawn shares her incredible story of maintaining her productivity even after a stage four cancer diagnosis forced her to undergo six months of chemotherapy. To accomplish this, Dawn maintained some key practices – including mind management, time management, and a scheduling trick she calls “container calendaring.” She explains all of these strategies here. Throughout the conversation, Dawn highlights the significance of mindset in overcoming obstacles and achieving success.  Are you an accountant seeking to enhance productivity and well-being? Then Dawn has solutions for you!

In this episode of the Growing Your Firm Podcast, host Dave Cristello welcomes Dominic Piscopo, the founder of Big 4 Transparency. An expert in salary benchmarking within the accounting industry, Dominic shares insights into compensation strategies, year-over-year changes, and the impact of private equity (PE) on salaries.  The conversation highlights the evolving landscape of compensation in accounting firms. Dominic Piscopo, CPA is known as a compensation guru in the accounting industry. After years of working as an accountant and financial analyst, he founded Big 4 Transparency – which has served hundreds of thousands of CPAs by making salary data more visible. Dominic assists accounting firms by giving them a user-friendly dashboard for understanding industry trends around compensation. He's also the host of the Big 4 Transparency podcast, where he interviews accounting industry insiders.

In this episode of the Growing Your Firm podcast, host David Cristello welcomes Todd Steinberg, founder and managing partner of Thrive Financial Group. David and Todd dive into the evolving landscape of accounting firm mergers and acquisitions (M&A), particularly the increasing role of private equity (PE) firms as buyers. They discuss key acquisition drivers such as human capital, geographic expansion, and cross-selling opportunities. Todd also breaks down deal structures, explaining the rise of rollover equity and earnouts, and how these vary by buyer type. Additionally, he shares insights into current valuation multiples, emphasizing the factors that impact firm valuations, including profitability and client retention. This episode is packed with actionable takeaways – whether you're an accounting firm owner considering growth through acquisition or preparing for a sale. Tune in to gain Thrive Financial Group's expert perspective on the latest M&A trends and learn how to position your firm for success. Resources

In this episode of Growing Your Firm, host David Cristello welcomes Alyssa J. Dillon, a fellow entrepreneur who shares her inspiring journey of starting her own business.  The conversation kicks off with Alyssa recounting the pivotal moment when she decided to quit her job and explore the possibility of working for herself after receiving a side accounting request.  As they dive deeper, Alyssa and David discuss the essential elements of building a successful firm, including the importance of marketing and sales processes.  Listeners can expect insights into quickly gaining traction, making strategic pivots, and offering advisory services, all while sharing in the excitement of the entrepreneurial roller coaster. Tune in for an engaging and informative ride!

In this episode of Growing Your Firm, host David Cristello welcomes Kelly Mann, co-founder and CEO of AuditMiner. Kelly shares her journey of launching her own CPA firm, a decision that surprised her given her background in audit and the male-dominated landscape of firm ownership.  She discusses the challenges of changing firm culture and her desire to build a business that aligns with her authentic self. The conversation delves into her experiences in the accounting profession, the shift to entrepreneurship, and her focus on 401k solutions.  Tune in to explore Kelly's insights on starting a firm, selling a firm, and the development of innovative software in the accounting space.

In this episode of The Growing Firm Podcast, host David Cristello welcomes Marcus Dillon, president of Dillon Business Advisors. The conversation delves into Marcus's journey of acquiring a book of business valued at $400k and the evolution of his firm over the past 13 years.  Marcus shares valuable insights on client acquisition, pricing strategies, and the importance of maintaining consistency during the first year of acquiring new practices. The episode also explores the challenges and hard decisions he faced, including experimenting with service offerings like bookkeeping and payroll.  Listeners will gain a deeper understanding of capacity planning and the hard-won lessons learned from the front lines of running a modern firm. Tune in for an engaging discussion filled with practical advice for firm growth and client management.

In this episode of Growing Your Firm, host David Cristello welcomes back returning guest Loren Fogelman, a sports psychologist turned business coach specializing in helping accounting professionals.  Loren shares her insights on a crucial yet often overlooked topic: raising fees for existing clients. She emphasizes the importance of understanding client hesitations, particularly when they respond with, "I'll think about it," suggesting that this often indicates unasked questions or a lack of perceived value.  David and Loren explore strategies to approach these conversations with curiosity and confidence, aiming to help listeners maximize their income while working smarter, not harder. Tune in to learn practical tips for implementing fee increases with your current client base.

In this episode of Growing Your Firm, host David Cristello speaks with Michael Meihaus, the owner of Meihaus CPA, who transitioned from a decade in public accounting to launching his own firm focused exclusively on retirement plan audits.  Michael shares his journey of self-discovery, including a pivotal conversation that prompted him to leave his job and pursue his passion.  The discussion touches on the importance of designing a firm that aligns with one's lifestyle and the concept of "choosing easy mode" in the accounting profession.  Listeners will gain insights into creating a unique firm identity, as Michael's website stands out from the conventional offerings typically found in the industry. Tune in to explore the magic of retirement plan audits and the entrepreneurial spirit behind building a firm that reflects personal values and aspirations.

In this episode of the Growing Your Firm podcast, host David Cristello welcomes Jesse and Tom from FinOptimal, a company that uniquely combines accounting services with innovative QuickBooks applications designed specifically for accountants.  The conversation delves into their dual business model, exploring how they balance service and product development in the competitive accounting landscape. Jesse and Tom share insights into their journey in building accounting software, the challenges they face, and their vision for the future of their company.  Tune in to discover how FinOptimal is reshaping the accounting industry and learn valuable lessons on managing a multifaceted business.

In this episode of the Grow Your Firm Podcast, host David Cristello welcomes Shannon Weinstein, the CFO for small businesses transitioning from seven to eight figures and President of Keep What You Earn.  Shannon shares her unique approach to hiring, emphasizing the importance of crafting compelling job descriptions that sell the company to prospective candidates. With over 120 applicants for her last two job openings, she highlights the need to view recruitment from a sales perspective.  Throughout the conversation, Shannon discusses her firm's philosophy on time tracking, stating they do not track time and explaining how this principle has shaped their operations.  Additionally, she reveals her efficient work schedule, averaging 25 to 35 hours per week, and offers insights into building a successful CFO practice. Tune in for valuable tips on hiring, firm management, and achieving work-life balance.

In this episode of Growing Your Firm, host David Cristello welcomes Wendy Barlin, a consultant specializing in helping professional service firms transition from frustration to freedom. Wendy shares insights from her decade-long experience in building her own remote firm, which she sold in 2021.  The conversation delves into the importance of operations, systems, processes, and a fresh perspective on profit within accounting firms. Wendy emphasizes the significance of establishing firm boundaries to maintain control over one's business and highlights the need for firms to adapt to these changes for long-term success.  Tune in to discover actionable strategies that can help firms reclaim their freedom while enhancing their operational efficiency.

In this episode of Growing Your Firm, host David Cristello welcomes Rory Henry, a certified financial planner and behavioral financial advisor.  Rory, who is also the director Arrowroot Family Office, co-founder of AFO Wealth Management Forward, and author of the upcoming book, "Holistic Guide to Wealth Management," discusses the evolving landscape of wealth management and its critical intersection with accounting and tax professionals.  The conversation explores the integration of technology in financial planning, highlighting how software is making holistic financial strategies more accessible.  Rory shares insights on the importance of collaboration among financial and accounting professionals and delves into the psychology of financial behavior. Tune in for valuable wisdom that can help accounting professionals enhance their services and better serve their clients.  

In this episode of the Growing Your Firm podcast, host David Cristello welcomes Geoff Bruskin, founder and managing partner of White Tiger Connections.  They dive into the dynamic landscape of mergers and acquisitions (M&A) within the accounting industry, exploring how recent trends have created a surge in acquisition interest.  Geoff discusses the impact of cloud technology and the shift towards distributed employment, which have transformed the M&A space.  The conversation also touches on the importance of viewing accounting as a nucleus for offering diverse services, particularly for young professionals entering the field. Tune in for insights on navigating M&A and recruitment in today's evolving market.

In this episode of Growing Your Firm, host David Cristello welcomes Tim Brackney, the Chief Executive Officer of Springline Advisory, a firm backed by private equity. They delve into the philosophy of utilizing talent from small firms to enhance shared services, while also discussing the complexities and nuances of private equity in the industry. Tim shares insights from his experience as a CEO and his background in scaling a professional services line to over $800 million in revenue. Listeners can expect a candid conversation about the good, the bad, and the realities of private equity, alongside potential discussions around AI in the professional services sector. Tune in for valuable strategies and behind-the-scenes perspectives on navigating growth in a competitive landscape.

In this episode of Growing Your Firm, host David Cristello welcomes back Greg O'Brien, Co-CEO of Anomaly CPA, for an insightful discussion about the evolution of his firm since their last conversation three years ago.  They reflect on the growth of Anomaly CPA, including the firm's current headcount and revenue, as well as the strategic decisions made to invest in alternative positions beyond client-facing roles, such as marketing, IT, and operations.  Greg shares valuable lessons learned on scaling a successful accounting firm and offers advice for listeners looking to achieve similar growth. Tune in to discover the latest updates from Greg and the innovative practices that have shaped his firm's journey.

In this episode of Growing Your Firm, host David Cristello welcomes Roman Villard, CPA, founder of Full Send Finance and co-founder of Full Send Design. The conversation kicks off with a focus on the importance of consistency in achieving success across various endeavors, including social media and business. Roman shares insights from his experiences on LinkedIn, where his consistent efforts have significantly increased awareness of his brand and services over the past year and a half. The discussion then delves into Roman's journey in building Full Send Finance, exploring strategic thinking for growing firms, and how modern practices can enhance operations. Tune in for valuable takeaways on leveraging social media and maintaining momentum in your professional endeavors.

In this episode of Growing Your Firm, host David Cristello welcomes Jeremy Wells, EA and CPA, owner of JWellsCFO and Chief Operating Officer Steadfast Bookkeeping.  Jeremy Wells is a distinguished entrepreneur and financial expert, recognized for his innovative approach to accounting and business strategy. He has dedicated his career to empowering small businesses and solopreneurs through comprehensive tax planning and strategic business advisory services. Jeremy specializes in tax planning and business strategy for small businesses and has been active in the field since 2018.  Before his accounting career, he spent a decade as a college instructor. The conversation delves into Jeremy's unique approach to business, which emphasizes a subscription-based model rather than traditional billing methods, making his services accessible to small businesses and individuals starting their entrepreneurial journeys.  Listeners can expect insights into navigating the challenges of running a business during the COVID-19 pandemic, along with Jeremy's expertise shared through his substack, J. Wells Tax, and his roles in various professional organizations. Tune in for valuable advice on tax strategy and business planning tailored for small businesses.  

In this episode of Growing Your Firm, host David Cristello interviews Logan Graff, a virtual CPA firm owner (The Graf Tax Co. PLLC) based in Central Texas and a rising star on YouTube.  Logan Graff is a dynamic and innovative figure in the accounting industry, known for his unique approach to running a virtual CPA firm and his engaging content creation on platforms like YouTube and Twitter. Logan shares his journey of starting his firm at the age of 30 and the challenges he faced, including pricing his services competitively despite having less experience than some of his peers.  The conversation delves into Logan's unique approach to content creation, his rapid growth on YouTube, and the lessons he's learned while building his successful firm.  Tune in to discover valuable insights on firm management, pricing strategies, and leveraging social media to enhance your business.

In this episode of the Growing Your Firm Podcast, host David Cristello welcomes Patrick Dichter, the owner of an acquisition engine specializing in acquiring accounting firms. And owner of Appletree Business Services, a modern accounting and tax firm for small businesses.  The  conversation delves into Patrick's successful strategies for acquiring firms, his approach to client mix, and how his model differs from conventional accounting practices.  With a focus on efficiency and client care, Patrick emphasizes the importance of flexibility and performance-based compensation in the workplace. Tune in to discover valuable insights on navigating the accounting landscape and achieving growth through strategic acquisitions. Client selection is vital for maintaining profitability and operational efficiency in accounting firms. As discussed in the podcast episode with Patrick Dichter, a firm's approach to client selection can have significant downstream implications for pricing, compensation, fulfillment, and overall capacity.

In this episode of Growing Your Firm, host David Cristello welcomes Piritta Van Rijn, the Global Head of Product and SVP for the accounting tax and practice division at Thomson Reuters. They delve into the exciting potential of AI and generative AI for firm owners, discussing how these technologies can free up time and enhance the expertise of existing talent. Piritta shares insights from a recent report on future productivity trends in the accounting and tax industries, highlighting the importance of bridging the talent gap that many firms are currently facing. Join them for an engaging conversation on the future of productivity and the evolving landscape of the profession.

On this episode of Growing Your Firm, host David Cristello interviews Michelle Neiswender, CFP the founder and CEO of FIRE Wealth Management. Michelle shares insights from her experience in the wealth management industry, offering valuable lessons applicable across different sectors.  As a fee-only certified financial planner, Michelle specializes in serving physicians, dentists, and high-income families with comprehensive planning. Listeners can expect discussions on workflow, process, tech stack, AI, and more as Michelle delves into her journey from a 15-year partnership to launching her own firm. The listener will learn about Michelle Neiswender's journey in the wealth management industry, including her transition to launching her own firm, utilizing workflow, process, tech stack, and AI in her business.  As well as, decision-making process behind launching a new firm, importance of compliance, transition to niche clientele, virtual financial planning, client acquisition strategies, developing workflow project management, personalizing financial planning, managing meetings effectively, running weekly staff meetings, incorporating AI into tech stack, and maximizing returns for accounting firms and CPAs.

On this episode of Growing Your Firm, David Cristello interviews Max Minsker, the founder and CEO of Bookmate, a remote accounting firm. Max shares insights into his journey of establishing Bookmate, focusing on tax returns and bookkeeping services.  The discussion delves into his unique approach to packaging and pricing, highlighting his atypical path to success in the industry. Tune in for valuable insights on building a successful accounting firm. The listener will learn about how Max Minsker founded and runs Bookmate, a remote accounting firm focused on tax preparation for new companies, as well as the atypical path he took to building a successful firm.  

In this episode of the Growing Your Firm podcast, host David Cristello, founder and CEO of Jetpack Workflow, welcomes Laurence Whittam, the Managing Director at Impact Global Solutions. Laurence specializes in helping CPA firms build successful outsourced teams.  The discussion delves into the evolving landscape of the industry, where the challenge is no longer about finding talent but selecting the right fit for each firm.  They explore criteria, best practices, and the importance of building strong relationships with team members. Tune in to gain insights on how to effectively integrate outsourced teams and enhance your firm's performance. Key Takeaways: Importance of knowing and building relationships with your team members. How to assess and select the right outsourced team. Best practices for integrating outsourced teams into your firm. Join David and Laurence for a deep dive into optimizing your firm's approach to outsourcing and team management.

In this episode, host David Cristello interviews Billy Angelo, the managing partner of Angelo and Associates, who brings over 20 years of experience in the accounting industry. Billy shares insights on steering small businesses, specifically private practice owners, towards financial clarity and success.  They discuss topics such as off-boarding clients to focus on core strengths, tailored tax and financial solutions for enhanced profitability, and the importance of cash management during tax season. Tune in for a conversation filled with out-of-the-box thinking and valuable industry perspectives. The listener will learn about offboarding clients, pricing, capacity, and AI in accounting firms.  

Today's guest, Seth Fineberg, a veteran in the accounting industry and founder of Accountants Forward, shares insights on how firm leaders can lead by example to move the profession forward. He discusses his career journey and current services, emphasizing the importance of instituting positive practices in the industry. Tune in to learn from Seth's wealth of experience and expertise in shaping the future of accounting. The listener will learn about the importance of firm leaders setting an example, addressing issues in the accounting profession, work-life balance, leadership, managing capacity, structuring business, pricing, diversity and inclusion, salary and compensation, transitioning to advisory services, communication, technology, and healthy debate for business growth. Overall, the episode highlighted work-life balance as a crucial factor in the success and well-being of firm leaders and accounting professionals.

On this episode of Growing Your Firm, host David Cristello welcomes Cory Gayman, CPA, the CEO/CFO/Founder of JCG Tax & Advisory Firm. Cory shares insights on establishing common ground with entrepreneurs, addressing the accounting talent shortage, improving accounting efficiencies, and navigating the world of virtual firms. Tune in for valuable tips from a firm owner in the trenches. You will learn about the challenges and strategies of balancing pricing, demand for employees, and growth in a CPA firm, as well as the benefits and challenges of acquiring accounting firms as a retirement strategy. Cory is a seasoned entrepreneur and business leader with a wealth of experience in the accounting industry. With a career spanning over nine years, Cory has successfully grown his firm through a combination of organic growth and strategic acquisitions. His firm now boasts seven offices and a team of 45 employees, serving clients across multiple regions.

In this episode of the Growing Your Firm Podcast, host David Cristello welcomes back Katie Lilly of Lillyfield Accounting Solutions. Katie discusses the transformative changes her firm has undergone since her last appearance on the show, pre-COVID.  She shares insights on her firm's transition from serving primarily local clients to expanding regionally and nationally, and how they navigated the shift to remote work with ease, having been originally designed as a remote firm for stay-at-home moms since its inception in 2016.  Katie also highlights the importance of maintaining a strong remote work culture, the logistics of moving her own presence without disrupting the firm, and the value of annual retreats for her team. Tune in to learn about Katie's innovative approaches and the secrets behind her firm's growth and adaptability. The listener will learn about the growth and transformation of Lillyfield Accounting Solutions, including their shift to national clients, focus on remote work culture, and success with QuickBooks Online.

On this episode of Growing Your Firm, host David Cristello welcomes back Nayo Carter-Gray, owner of 1st Step Accounting. Nayo, an enrolled agent and Advanced Certified QuickBooks Online Pro Advisor, is known for making accounting less taxing.  The conversation also covers the importance of diversity and inclusion in various aspects of business, setting boundaries in work, and prioritizing work-life balance, accounting automation, and technology in the accounting industry. Nayo Carter-Gray is a distinguished figure in the accounting industry, known for making accounting less taxing for her clients. With over 25 years of experience in the field, Nayo has established herself as an enrolled agent, a QuickBooks Online Advanced Certified Pro Advisor, and a Gusto Ambassador.  Her impressive credentials also include being recognized as one of Hubdoc's top 50 cloud accountants, a former Intuit Accounting Council member, and one of Forbes' top 100 tax Twitter accounts. Nayo's commitment to diversity and inclusion in the accounting profession is evident through her active involvement in promoting underrepresented voices.  As the founder of 1st Step Accounting, Nayo prioritizes setting boundaries and emphasizes that other people's emergencies do not constitute emergencies for her. This philosophy reflects her dedication to work-life balance and prioritizing personal well-being while delivering exceptional service to her clients.

In this episode of Growing Your Firm, host David Cristello interviews Randy Crabtree, a top influencer in the accounting industry. Randy, co-founder of Tri-Merit, discusses R&D, tax credits, and cost segregation, sharing insights on the success of his firm. Tune in for a valuable conversation on creating a culture of value and importance in the workplace. The listener will learn about the importance of creating a culture where people feel valued and can be themselves, as well as the benefits of specializing in niche areas in accounting. Randy Crabtree is a renowned figure in the accounting industry, known for his innovative approach to building successful firms and fostering a positive company culture. With a career spanning over three decades, Randy has established himself as a thought leader in the field of accounting and tax consulting. In the podcast episode, Randy discusses the importance of building a strong culture within a remote work setting. He highlights the significance of creating a workplace where individuals feel valued, important, and free to be themselves.

In this episode of Growing Your Firm, host David Cristello, founder and CEO of Jetpack Workflow, welcomes Jessica Zoraida, a Latina entrepreneur and CEO of Big Picture Results. Jessica shares her journey of being self-taught, launching her firm, and navigating various pivots and transitions.  Big Picture Results is an accounting and tax company dedicated to helping profitable, growing businesses, particularly those operated by marginalized populations, maximize their financial outcomes. Jessica discusses her mission to support women and other marginalized groups in the business world, highlighting the services her firm offers and the types of clients they serve.  Tune in to learn more about Jessica's inspiring path and the strategies she employs to help businesses thrive. The listener will learn about how Big Picture Results focuses on bringing more to the bottom line for business owners, the importance of financial management, evolving packaging and pricing in financial advisory relationships, working with service providers with a good quality brand, having a qualified team for bookkeeping, regular meetings with the CFO and COO, eliminating unnecessary tasks, and maximizing returns for accounting firms and CPAs.

On this episode of Growing Your Firm, host David Cristello welcomes back Ron Saharyan, co-founder of Profit First Professionals. They explore the concept of value pricing and its importance in pricing services based on the value provided.  The conversation delves into various topics, with a promise of exciting announcements between Jetpack and Profit First at the end of the episode. Tune in for insightful discussions and a special reveal at the conclusion! The listener will learn about Profit First Professionals, implementing the Profit First system in their business, client advisory services (CAS), subscription services in accounting firms, strategies for expanding client base, importance of advising customers, and the partnership between Profit First Professional and Jetpack Workflow. Ron Saharyan is a renowned figure in the world of small business consulting and financial management. As the co-founder and managing director of Profit First Professionals, Ron has dedicated his career to helping businesses of all sizes achieve financial success through innovative methodologies.  With a decade of experience in the industry, Ron has become a trusted advisor to countless firms and entrepreneurs seeking to improve their financial health.

In this episode of Growing Your Firm, brought to you by Jetpack Workflow, host David Cristello welcomes back Geni Whitehouse, founder of The Impactful Advisor and Information Technology Alliance (ITA) president, who specializes in the wine industry.  Geni, also known as the Countess of Communication and author of "How to Make a Boring Subject Interesting: 52 Ways Even a Nerd Can Be Heard," discusses the latest trends in her membership base, the importance of niche advisory services, and effective communication strategies.  Join us as we explore insights into talent acquisition and dive deep into various industry-specific challenges and opportunities. The listener will learn about the book "How to Make a Boring Subject Interesting" and the author's journey from being a tax professional to finding ways to resonate with clients and deliver value.  They will also learn about leveraging humor, embracing unique qualities, improving communication skills, transitioning to advisory roles, and addressing challenges in the accounting industry.

Today's episode features Samantha Santaniello, partner at R.S.K Tax & Consulting. Samantha discusses the importance of setting boundaries to manage time effectively as a business owner. Host David Cristello explores topics like systems and processes for scaling a firm, balancing work and family life, and utilizing AI transcription tools. Tune in to gain insights on optimizing workflow and achieving work-life balance in the accounting industry. The listener will learn about setting boundaries, systems and processes for scaling a firm, managing personal routines and juggling multiple responsibilities as a business owner and parent. They will also hear about the services provided by R.S.K Tax & Consulting, focusing on small business owners and real estate investors. The importance of tax planning and strategy for small business owners, real estate investors, and individuals will also be discussed, along with insights into building a successful business with a sibling and managing personal systems effectively. Additionally, the benefits of having a morning routine, utilizing an administrative assistant, and implementing tools like Jetpack Workflow for organization and task management will be highlighted. The episode will also cover the significance of building a great team, incorporating ideas from others, and utilizing digital assistants in virtual meetings.

Summary In this episode of Growing Your Firm, host David Cristello interviews Jordan Sublette, the CEO and founder of Cloud Accounting Staffing. Jordan shares his journey of building and selling his firm, and dives into the world of outsourcing talent.  They discuss the challenges of talent crunches and how Jordan navigated through them. Tune in to gain insights on building a successful firm and leveraging outsourcing effectively. What you'll learn The listener will learn about the journey of Jordan Sublette, CEO and founder of Cloud Accounting Staffing, including building his firm, outsourcing talent, structuring a sale, and navigating the world of outsourcing.

In this insightful episode of the "Growing Your Firm" podcast, brought to you by Jetpack Workflow, host David Cristello is joined by special guest Adam Lean, CEO and co-founder of The CFO Project.  Adam shares his expertise on how accountants can go beyond traditional number-crunching by engaging with clients through meaningful conversations that resemble therapeutic sessions. By asking open-ended questions about clients' businesses and aspirations, accountants can foster a deeper connection and provide greater value. Adam also delves into the importance of CFO advisory services as a scalable way for accountants, CPAs, bookkeepers, and enrolled agents to grow their firms and increase their earnings. The episode discusses the rise of advisory services in the accounting industry, from integration in mid-market firms to adoption by smaller practices as a lucrative service offering. Listeners will learn about the importance of asking clients questions to get them talking, the benefits of adding CFO advisory services to accounting firms, and the current state of advisory services in the industry.

On this episode of Growing Your Firm, host David Cristello interviews Daniel Hood, the editor-in-chief of Accounting Today. With over two decades of experience in the industry, Daniel shares insights into the evolving trends in accounting firms and the push for advisory services. Tune in to gain a deeper understanding of the future of accounting and the role of technology in shaping the industry. The listener will learn about the evolution of accounting firms, advisory services, trends in the accounting profession, and the impact of AI on the industry.

On this episode of Growing Your Firm, David Cristello interviews Scotty Scarano, the self-titled wrapping custodian at Accounting High. Scotty, who is also the founder of a $2 million accounting firm and serves on various tech company boards, shares insights on OKRs and his rap career. Tune in to learn more about Scotty's journey and his unique approach to the accounting industry. The listener will learn about Scotty Scarano, his journey from rap to running a profitable firm, growth strategies, challenges faced, importance of trust in a team, holding employees accountable, saying no to certain opportunities, staying on the same page with team members, mindset of business owners when selling a firm, incentivizing growth, performing rap at accounting conferences, and OKR.

In this episode of the Growing Your Firm podcast, host David Cristello welcomes John Seiffer, a seasoned business owner and remote CEO, to discuss the concept of Output Thinking and its application in team management. John, a business coach and former president of the International Coach Federation, shares insights on how to make managing teams easier by focusing on visible, measurable outputs. The conversation touches on culture, values, and attitudes in a unique way, offering valuable perspectives for the audience. Tune in to learn how Output Thinking can transform the way you lead your team and firm. The listener will learn about the concepts of culture, values, and attitudes, and how to apply them to make managing a team easier. The importance of defining outputs for employees, creating processes, and investing in employee happiness will also be discussed.

In this episode of Growing Your Firm, brought to you by Jetpack Workflow, host David Cristillo sits down with Tyler Winn, the founder and CEO of Cirrus Payroll. Tyler shares his journey of falling into the payroll business in 2012 and subsequently building a seven-figure firm that specializes in processing payroll for small businesses. Alongside running Cirrus Payroll, Tyler operates a coaching business for accountants called Payroll Profits (Formally, Winning with Payroll), where he debunks the myth that payroll services are inherently unprofitable and unpleasant to manage. He discusses the benefits of separating payroll services from an existing accounting firm, which can lead to a symbiotic relationship between the two entities and provides opportunities for cross-marketing services. The episode aims to help accounting firms understand how they can grow by incorporating payroll services and leveraging them as a strategic tool for expansion.

On this episode of Growing Your Firm, host David Cristello interviews Fred Tate, the Managing Director of CFO Shield. Fred discusses how CFO Shield takes a consultative approach to create tailored solutions for clients, offering fractional CFO services along with bookkeeping and payroll support. Fred also emphasizes the importance of understanding and meeting individual client needs, showcasing the unique approach of the firm. Tune in to learn more about how CFO Shield stands out in the industry and prioritizes client service. You will learn about the importance of connecting people together to create an ecosystem, launching a CFO firm, as well as how CFO Shield tailors solutions to specific client needs and provides a variety of services including bookkeeping and payroll.

Today on the Growing Your Firm Podcast, David Cristello sits down with guest Kane Polakoff, a principal client advisory services practice leader at CohnReznick. They delve into the world of client advisory services, discussing how to scale it, the tech stack involved, and the execution for high performance.  Kane's extensive experience working with various organizations in advisory capacities brings a wealth of knowledge to the conversation. Join them on this exciting journey into the realm of client advisory services. The listener will learn about client advisory services, scaling, tech stack, executing in a high-performance manner, focus on verticals, building proposals, collaborating with clients, communication, coordination, capacity building, API automation, financial metrics, resource allocation, talent crunch, and industry insights.

In this insightful episode of Growing Your Firm, host David Cristello, founder and CEO of Jetpack Workflow, welcomes Tammy D. Little, CEO and founder of the FTC Group. The discussion centers around Tammy's journey from working as a controller/CFO for a large construction firm to launching her own firm, the FTC Group.  Tammy shares her experiences in creating effective systems and processes for her business, as well as her strategies for team resourcing that includes both onshore and offshore components. Listeners will learn about the tools and technologies that Tammy and her remote team utilize to manage tasks for clients, such as using Loom for video instructions and Jetpack Workflow for task management and recurring job assignments.  Tammy also recounts how a request from a tax accountant to help clean up a client's messy books led her to realize her passion for details and problem-solving, which ultimately sparked the beginning of her entrepreneurial journey. Join us as we explore Tammy's transition from full-time employment to entrepreneurship, her passion for fixing complex problems, and her commitment to developing a scalable, systemized approach to running a successful firm in the accounting and finance industry. This episode is sponsored by LiveFlow. LiveFlow empowers you with flexible, powerful reporting tools to create customized dashboards that meet your specific needs. Connect to all your clients' QuickBooks accounts and import their financial reports from QuickBooks into Google Sheets in no time. Learn more and book your demo here.

In this episode of Growing Your Firm, brought to you by Jetpack Workflow, host David Cristello interviews Jennifer Ryan, the owner of Bookkeeping Direct. Jenny shares her journey from initially joining the firm as a contractor to eventually buying the business in 2016. She highlights the company's impressive growth of 140% in the past year and discusses how the firm expanded its staff to four members. This episode is sponsored by LiveFlow. LiveFlow empowers you with flexible, powerful reporting tools to create customized dashboards that meet your specific needs. Connect to all your clients' QuickBooks accounts and import their financial reports from QuickBooks into Google Sheets in no time. Learn more and book your demo here.

In this episode of Growing Your Firm, David Cristello interviews Brad Schuchardt, founder of BTBK Accounting Services. Brad specializes in providing full-service accounting solutions to restaurants, offering accurate financial information and strategic business insight.  They discuss Brad's journey into his niche, marketing strategies, and scaling up his firm. They also touch on the importance of building a strong team and partnerships.  This episode is sponsored by LiveFlow. LiveFlow empowers you with flexible, powerful reporting tools to create customized dashboards that meet your specific needs. Connect to all your clients' QuickBooks accounts and import their financial reports from QuickBooks into Google Sheets in no time. Learn more and book your demo here.

In this episode of the Growing Your Firm Podcast, host David Cristello interviews James E. Heyward, the principal at Heyward CPA. They dive into the world of technology and discuss the apps and tools that are working well for James' firm, as well as those that aren't.  They also touch on the importance of using a support desk for client communication and setting expectations for response times. Tune in to learn about the marketing technology landscape and gain insights on how to optimize your firm's tech stack. This episode is sponsored by LiveFlow. LiveFlow empowers you with flexible, powerful reporting tools to create customized dashboards that meet your specific needs. Connect to all your clients' QuickBooks accounts and import their financial reports from QuickBooks into Google Sheets in no time. Learn more and book your demo here.

In this episode of Growing Your Firm, host  David Cristello interviews Lisa Wolfson-Jones, owner and CPA at Mac-L Associates. Lisa shares the benefits of having client information ahead of meetings and how it helps create more effective discussions.  They also discuss running a virtual firm and serving small businesses, particularly sole proprietors and entrepreneurs.  Lisa launched Mac-L Associates in 2010, and they provide accounting services for small businesses and individuals. Tune in to learn more about Lisa's journey and insights for growing a successful accounting firm. This episode is sponsored by LiveFlow. LiveFlow empowers you with flexible, powerful reporting tools to create customized dashboards that meet your specific needs. Connect to all your clients' QuickBooks accounts and import their financial reports from QuickBooks into Google Sheets in no time. Learn more and book your demo here.

Pawel Brzeminski is the founder and CEO of Snap Projections. Pawel has achieved great success in launching, growing, and successfully exiting his company. He has a strong ethos of reaching acquisition scale and shares insights on the unexpected process of getting acquired. In this episode, host David Cristello interviews Pawel Brzeminski, the founder and CEO of Snap Projections. Pawel shares his journey of launching, growing, and successfully exiting his company. He discusses why he chose not to raise money from venture capitalists and instead opted for an acquisition.  Pawel also provides insights into the process of reaching a scale where the company becomes an acquisition target and shares his experiences afterward. Tune in to learn from Pawel's story and his successful arc with Snap Projections.

In this episode of Growing Your Firm, host David Cristello interviews Trina Rozen, owner of Trina Rozen CPA. They discuss various topics, including unique ways Trina has structured her firm, pricing strategies, making tax prep profitable, and her opinions on the coaching community. Trina shares insights on dealing with challenging clients and finding success as a solo practitioner in South Pasadena, California. Tune in for an entertaining and informative conversation. In this episode, we talk about Trina's experiences with tax preparation and running her firm. But we also dive into some of the following topics:  The benefits of offering 1040 tax services as a CPA Her approach to managing workload during tax season The importance of having a well-organized workflow process Dealing with weird returns and customer service challenges Acquiring and integrating firms  Considerations when buying CPA firms Using Jetpack for technology workflow Challenges of tax season and client organization