Thrivecast: A Podcast for Accountants

The world is constantly evolving. Clients are changing. That means we have to meet them where they are. Accountants are no longer strictly “service providers”. Go ahead…add “technology advisor” to your resume. It sounds scary, but it's true. Accountants must start embracing new technology and AI in order to free up ourselves for the services that clients are actually wanting. “There's an app for that” and our tech savvy clients know it, so we have to push past our own fears to meet them where they are…and that means more metrics, financial reporting, and advisory. Sarah Acton, Chief Customer Officer with BILL, says that we must get comfortable with automating the granular tasks so that we can free ourselves up for doing one thing that technology can NOT do, and that's building personal relationships. Strive for efficiency. Experiment with new ideas. Ultimately, your authenticity is what builds credibility with your clients. Walk them through their own fears and develop a practical roadmap for success in their own business. Learn how BILL can help make your firm more efficient and streamline operations at www.bill.com.

In this episode of Thrivecast, Jason sits down with award-winning educator Dr. Scott J. Allen, Ph.D., an expert in leadership development, the future of work, and executive communication, to discuss the crucial distinction between technical expertise and leadership ability in accounting firms. Episode Highlights: - Why the most skilled accountants aren't always the best candidates for leadership positions - How to create appropriate career paths for technical experts who don't move into leadership - Key qualities to look for when identifying potential leaders within your firm - Strategies for leadership development and ""arming yourself"" as a firm leader - How effective leadership directly influences the climate and culture of accounting firms - Practical approaches to measuring leadership effectiveness in your organization This must-listen episode provides valuable insights for firm owners and leaders navigating the challenging transition from accountant to leader. Dr. Allen and Jason explain why leadership is a learned skill that can be developed over time, offering hope and guidance for those looking to strengthen their leadership capabilities. Whether you're currently in a leadership position or planning your firm's succession strategy, this conversation offers practical frameworks to help you build a stronger leadership team and create the right growth paths for all your talented professionals. About the Guest: Scott J. Allen, Ph.D., serves as an instructor in SMU's Cox School of Business Executive Education and spent more than 18 years as a professor of management. He also serves as a leadership consultant with Winding River Consulting. Allen's areas of expertise include leader development, the future of work, and executive communication. Scott has published more than 60 peer-reviewed articles and book chapters. He's the co-author of several books, including The Little Book of Leadership Development: 50 Ways to Bring Out the Leader in Every Employee; Emotionally Intelligent Leadership: A Guide for College Students; Discovering Leadership: Designing Your Success; and Captivation: Online Presentations by Design. Scott hosts Phronesis: Practical Wisdom for Leaders, ranked among the world's top 2.5% of podcasts. Along with the podcast, he publishes a weekly newsletter. You can connect with Scott at https://www.scottjallen.net/ or find him on LinkedIn.

Welcome to Thrivecast! In today's episode, Jason Blumer sits down with Rob Nixon, a global expert in driving profitability for accounting firms. They unpack the nitty-gritty of critical utilization, productivity, and efficiency concepts. They'll explore how the pandemic has reshaped virtual work, the historical changes in accounting efficiency, succession planning, and transforming firms into vehicles for wealth creation. Tune in as they uncover strategies for firm owners to balance profitability, efficiency, and personal fulfillment. Whether you're aiming for practice improvement or transitioning to an investor level, this episode is packed with actionable insights!

In this solo Thrivecast episode, Jason reflects on opportunities that the new year brings. He shares the sad conclusion of the Businessology Show and said goodbye to make way for new ventures and focused growth. He emphasizes the importance of recommitting to new paths in the services industry and highlights Thriveal's exciting future plans. He invites listeners to join him in embracing change, growing their businesses, and finding new ways to provide value to clients. Join us as we embark on this journey into the new year with renewed energy and a commitment to growth and innovation!

Welcome back to Thrivecast! In this episode, Jason sits down with Brett Kelly, founder, and CEO of Kelly Partners Group, a global accounting firm that went public in Australia in 2017 and is now leading in the US as well. They sit down to discuss the evolving world of leadership and business strategy. Brett highlights the importance of fostering bottom-up leadership, aligning business practices with core values, and creating environments that unlock potential in teams and firms alike. Together, they explore shifting career trends, the power of long-term vision, and how mission-driven strategies are reshaping the business landscape!

Welcome back to The Businessology Show! In today's episode, Jason chats with Joan Herlong, CEO of Herlong Sotheby's International Realty, about what it takes to run a successful real estate business. Joan dives into the importance of integrity, personalized service, and continuous learning in the ever-changing real estate market. She also shares insights from her book, As Is: An Insider's Guide to Real Estate, offering tips to elevate business practices! Don't miss out!

Welcome back to The Thrivecast! Today, Jason sits down for part 2 of his episode with Ian Vacin where they finish their teaching from the highly successful Deeper Weekend conference. This episode is a follow up from Ian's sessions at Deeper Weekend and they dive into the Qualitative Research they are doing for their upcoming book on Human Capacity. Come learn about the 7 qualitative research findings that help firms reach profitability and firm success.

Welcome back to Thrivecast! In today's episode, Jason chats with Ian Vacin, co-founder and chief customer officer of Karbon. Known for his extensive background in industrial engineering, high tech manufacturing, and an MBA, Ian brings a wealth of industry knowledge to the table. Together, they dive deep into the intricacies of capacity planning and resource management for accounting firms, drawing from their own collaboration history and experiences on road shows. They'll give us a sneak peek into their latest endeavor: co-writing a book on "human capacity," blending extensive research with anecdotal wisdom to tackle the complexities of scaling service-based businesses. From labor cost challenges to the nuanced art of outsourcing staff, Ian and Jason share invaluable insights that can help any entrepreneur navigate the choppy waters of growth and organizational design!

Welcome back to Thrivecast! In today's episode, Jason and Jackie Meyer, dive into the dynamic world of tax planning and strategic leadership. Holding a doctorate in strategic leadership, Jackie discusses the significance of setting personal boundaries, the value of in-person meetings, and her journey in hiring a CEO to focus on her book and career advancements. We'll explore the high ROI potential of tax planning, the importance of strategic pricing, and how Jackie's SaaS product, Tax Plan IQ, is transforming the accounting industry. Join them as they navigate through the distinctions of tax advisory services, manage a busy schedule, and discover the limitless potential within the profession!

Welcome back to Thrivecast, where we get into the ins and outs of the ever-evolving landscape of the accounting profession. In this episode, we have a thought-provoking conversation with Rob Brown, CEO of Accounting Influencers, hailing from the historic city of Nottingham, UK. Rob shares his journey from a high school math teacher to becoming a leading figure in training and developing accounting professionals. Jason and Rob explore the challenges and opportunities in the accounting profession, from storytelling and influence skills to leadership development and the impact of technology. Join them as they uncover the changing dynamics in the world of accounting and the essential attributes for modern-day CPAs to remain competitive!

Welcome to a special solo episode of Thrivecast! In this unique installment, Jason examines a concept crucial for every firm entrepreneur: Owner Rest. As we enter conference season, it's the perfect time to explore how stepping away strategically can refuel and recharge you. In this episode, you'll discover the distinction between 'rest rest' and 'owner rest' and why both are essential for sustainable growth and productivity. We'll discuss how Owner Rest isn't just about taking a break but about engaging in purposeful learning and development away from your daily grind. This episode also highlights the upcoming Deeper Weekend conference, where you can experience Owner Rest firsthand. Join us as we unpack the science and practice of productivity, and learn how to leverage strategic rest to become a better leader and owner. Tune in, take notes, and get ready to thrive!

Welcome to another Thrivecast episode, where Jason and Calvin Harris dive deep into the evolving landscape of the accounting profession. They tackle the intricate rules and regulations that impact the mobility of CPAs across states, emphasizing the crucial role of state CPA societies in advocating for the profession and protecting public trust. Calvin Harris, the CEO of the New York State Society of CPAs, recounts pivotal moments in his career, including his unexpected ascent to leadership roles and his passion-driven journey. Jason and Calvin will also explore pressing issues like the 150-hour rule, private equity's role in modernizing firms, and the need to reshape the perception of the accounting profession starting as early as middle school. We'll discuss the importance of mentoring, the non-linear career paths enabled by technology, and the future of accounting amid a changing professional landscape. Join us as we unravel these themes and more in a dynamic conversation that promises to provide valuable insights for professionals at every stage of their careers.

Welcome to another episode of Thrivecast. Today, we're diving deep into the transformative journey firms undergo when moving from traditional consensus-based models to streamlined business-oriented models. Jason's thrilled to have Jeremy Clopton, managing director of Upstream Academy, joining us to share his experiences and the complexities this transition entails. They'll explore how embracing a corporate structure can offer partners more entrepreneurial freedom and enhance firm efficiency by clearly separating governance from operations. This separation is crucial for enabling firms to operate more like businesses and less like old-school partnerships, which can often hinder growth. Jason and Jeremy will also tackle private equity in professional services. With views ranging from seeing it as a potential exit strategy to leveraging it for growth, they unpack the varied perspectives and experiences surrounding this controversial subject. Their discussion aims to shed light on how shifting mindsets, embracing new roles, and implementing structured leadership can pave the way for a more successful future. Stay tuned as they break down these complex issues and offer insights into making the transition smoother and more effective for everyone involved.

Welcome back to Thrivecast, where we dive deep into the mechanics of running a firm and the trends shaping the professional landscape. In today's episode, we're excited to have Tom Hood, EVP of the AICPA and Business Learning Institute, join us to unravel the complexities surrounding the CPA profession. We tackle the hotly debated 150-hour rule for CPA exam eligibility and discuss its ten-year journey to legislative reality. As we navigate the impacts of this requirement on professional mobility and the talent pipeline, Tom sheds light on the formation of the National Pipeline Advisory Group (NPEG) by the AICPA, aiming to align the accounting world amidst varying state regulations. Our discussion leads into concerns over the profession's outlook, from legislative challenges affecting mobility to the potential risks of an anti-licensing movement. But it's not all hurdles and high jumps; the silver lining reveals itself as we dissect the necessity for CPAs to find balance – charging fair prices, avoiding burnout, and staying ahead of technology, including AI, to thrive in their roles. Tom reminds us of the importance of asserting value and provides insights on maintaining professional standards while nurturing work-life harmony. His insight will leave you pondering on the vision of a profession empowered by AI, a discipline that continues to demand the brightest minds to innovate and evolve. So, tune in, as we reflect on these pressing issues, explore the necessary legislative landscapes, and ultimately, chart a course for a hopeful future in accounting. Talent Pipeline & Survey – National Pipeline Advisory Group https://www.accountingpipeline.org/participate/ Future of Finance – Forbes article – fits CAS Practices CFO Ongoing Evolution: From “CF-No” To “CF-Know” https://www.forbes.com/sites/forbesfinancecouncil/2023/08/23/cfo-ongoing-evolution-from-cf-no-to-cf-know/?sh=57ddf2aa2acc

Welcome back to the Thrivecast, where we dive into the heart of what makes firms thrive. In today's episode, we're honored to host Seth David, the founder and chief nerd at Nerd Enterprises, who's here to share his unique and inspirational journey with us. Seth takes us from his former life on Wall Street to 25 years of sobriety and entrepreneurship in sunny California. This episode also spotlights the evolution of Nerd Enterprises from a side hustle to a sought-after firm and how Seth's genuine and helpful content carved out a niche on YouTube. We'll touch upon the future of accounting, the integration of AI and advisory services, and the radical transformations within the industry. Seth talks about the art of making banking fun and how his passion led him to challenge the norms within the accounting industry. We'll dissect the concept of impact over numbers as we discuss the growth of Seth's YouTube channel, breaking down why influence is more significant than subscriber count while exploring Seth's discomfort with being labeled as an ""influencer."" Join us as we dive into Seth's innovative use of AI in his business practices, where his AI assistant, Sandy, is revolutionizing the way he works. We'll hear why Seth believes in nurturing community, selflessness, and the importance of ""esteemable acts"" in both recovery and business success.

Our special guest, Dr. Josh McGowan from Troy University, brings his wealth of knowledge as a university professor with a robust background in public accounting, teaching, and serving as a CFO. He offers insights into the professorial life and the importance of incorporating modern technology like AI into the classroom. Also, we'll glimpse into the high flex classes at Troy University, designed to adapt to various student needs. Our host, Jason Blumer, also emphasizes the critical role of mentorship and real-world experience in shaping future accountants. Meanwhile, firms are grappling with increasing salaries to combat a talent shortage and adjusting their operations to reflect the true value of their services. Their discussion will not just revolve around the figures; they'll also tackle recent changes to the CPA exam structure, the implications of these changes for students, and career trajectories. There's a buzz about whether the 150-hour rule is serving its purpose, amidst concerns of a shrinking pool of accounting major graduates. Stay tuned, as Jason and Josh unpack these topics and much more, breaking down everything you need to know to understand the evolving landscape of the accounting profession.

Venture into the accounting realm with none other than Chase Birky, founder of Dark Horse CPAs— a firm that's galloping ahead of the competition by empowering small businesses and accounting professionals alike. With an innovative platform designed to incorporate outsourced teams and private wealth management, Dark Horse is redefining value for CPAs and clients. Explore the personal entrepreneurial journey, highlighting the balance between commitment to business and personal life, as well as the emotional toll that comes with the territory of being a business owner. Chase opens up about his transition from big four accounting to the helm of Dark Horse and the innovations that keep them unique amid private equity's watchful eye. The journey doesn't stop there. Learn how Dark Horse stands out by offering CPAs growth, equity, and incentives— a cocktail of opportunities rivalling what some might expect from a private equity model, yet still personifying a touch of entrepreneurial freedom and support. And of course, we'll touch upon the crucial support networks required in such a demanding field, underscoring the importance of community, family, and technological tools like Bill, our exclusively featured sponsor, that glue businesses together. So, whether you're a CPA looking to leap onto a new saddle or simply keen on the foresight that's driving modern firms forward, grab your headphones, and let's embark on a journey into the evolving world of accounting with Chase Birky and Jason Blumer as your guides.

Tune into the latest episode of Thrivecast, where Jason dives deep into the art of strategic calendar planning. Learn how to maximize productivity without crashing into chaos – a must-listen for all leaders and aspiring business owners! In this episode, Jason takes a sprightly walk through the concept of containering and strategic calendar work blocking. Explore how Jason masterfully runs not one, but two successful full-time businesses, using an ordered and comprehensive approach to time management. Steal a glimpse into Jason's calendar. Discover their secrets of managing time between team, leadership meetings, and content creation sessions organized meticulously. Get insights into his use of efficient tools like Todoist and Twist, supporting day-to-day tasks and team communications. This newest episode unravels the art of saying “yes” to strategic goals while knowing when to say “no” to distractions. Counter chaos with Jason's tips to achieve healthier priorities, rhythm, and work-life balance, all crucial for business growth. This insightful episode wouldn't have been possible without the generous support of our sponsors, Divi and Bill. And if you're wondering how to keep your spend management streamlined, you'll want to hear what Divi has to offer. Savor insights about pre-planning your strategic life with practices and tools that can enable you to achieve bigger goals with less overwhelm. As Jason puts it, “Intentionality and structured planning can create a bigger impact.” Don't forget to join us for the second part of this essential series on strategic calendar work blocking.

Did y'all know that rhythms define and contain your commitments and that a rhythmic calendar will align your team for success? Jason Blumer is solo on the newest episode of Thrivecast to discuss the role of strategic, pre-planned calendars in forming intentional and fulfilling work. A pre-blocked calendar prevents time wastage on trivial tasks and keeps you focused on the important goals—contributing to your overall success. Jason further unpacks the significance of attention as a precious resource. He'll discuss how misuse of attention can spiral into chaos and how you, as an entrepreneur, can preserve it best. Owning a firm often feels like a rollercoaster ride, and it's imperative to build your own structure and order using tools like calendar-blocking. Listen to learn about implementing the methodology of strategic work calendar-blocking, which Jason and his partner, Julie, use in their businesses and coach others on. This powerful tool involves blocking out your calendar an entire year in advance, and how this simple action can drastically augment your strategic planning and execution. Remember, while entrepreneurship empowers you to carve your own future, it's not about succumbing to your emotional whims. Jason dives into the dangers of an "unintentional future" and how pre-planned calendar can help you stay on track. Listen to the full episode for a sneak peak of part 2 where Jason will be focusing on the practical aspects of strategic calendar work blocking. Stay tuned for more insights!

n this episode, Jason Blumer is joined by Jason Staats, founder of Realize and podcast host of Jason Daily to discuss the rise of AI in the accounting industry. Jason talks about job displacement and the evolving role of entrepreneurs. Jason Staats shares his experience in public accounting and sheds light on the impact of AI on specialized tasks. It's a fascinating topic that'll have you rethinking the future of work. But don't worry, entrepreneurship and a dash of accounting will always have their place! Don't worry, Jason and Jason also share how you can level up your skills. Jason and Jason emphasize the power of video and how it can take your expertise to new heights. From honing your editing skills to becoming a captivating presenter, there's no doubt that incorporating video into your routine can give you the edge you need. Plus, it's a chance to show off your personality and connect with your audience on a deeper level. And there's more! They also touch on the rapid pace of change in the software industry, the rise of AI-first companies, and the exciting future of conversational software. Trust us, this is the stuff you need to know to stay ahead in the game. And speaking of staying ahead, Jason Staats spills the beans on how he dominated the social media scene and amassed over 10 million impressions a month. That's serious visibility! Last but not least, family time matters too! Jason Staats shares his personal journey of finding a balance between work and family, making sure to prioritize quality time with his little ones. It's a powerful reminder that success isn't just about business glory but also about finding fulfillment and joy in all aspects of life.

In the new episode of Thrivecast, Jason Blumer and Brannon Poe dive deep into the world of buying and selling businesses, exploring the frustrations buyers face when sellers decide not to sell. They also discuss the efforts made to ensure that sellers are truly ready to sell and the support offered to help them prepare their practice. Brannon shares insights on gathering crucial information through inquiry and tax returns, highlighting what exactly gets added back in the process. He'll uncover the challenges faced by traditional firms with overworked owners who are resistant to change and stuck in their ways. But it's not all about the obstacles - Jason and Brannon also uncover the strategies employed by progressive firms that are thriving in today's market. From the risks involved in earnouts to the importance of buyer motivation in maintaining the practice, they leave no stone unturned. But the focus of this episode isn't just limited to the world of accounting firms. They also explore the shifting landscape of retirement and succession planning and the importance of building teams that can operate without the owner. Jason and Brannon uncover the common mistakes made by baby boomers and how the game is changing for future generations. Listen in on the discussion of the crucial role of accountants specializing in areas like margin analysis, cost structure, and pricing services. Jason and Brannon share a specific example of someone who needs assistance in these aspects and how they can find the right accountant. Brannon sheds light on the different levels of growth for accounting firms and the factors that contribute to their value growth. Jason and Brannon will discuss the options firms have - focusing on higher-level advisory work or automation and specialization - and the importance of finding the right niche. Get ready for lots of knowledge and insights in the newest episode of Thrivecast!

Get ready to uncover valuable insights and practical tips on how to effectively reach your firm's target audience, create a strong online presence, and build a successful brand with Thrivecast guest, Karen Reyburn. Join Karen and Jason as they explore the importance of understanding your audience's needs and tailoring your marketing efforts accordingly. They'll dive into how to address the issues and problems your audience faces, ensuring your brand connects and resonates with them on a deeper level. But that's not all! Karen shares the secrets of creating a captivating website that reflects your firm's unique approach and way of doing things. Learn why it's more beneficial to focus on explaining your methodology or approach rather than overwhelming your audience with multiple services pages. Discover why quick wins may not always be the key to success and why investing time and effort for at least two to three years is necessary for long-term results. And brace yourselves, as Karen and Jason take a detour into the world of whiskey, exploring the art of distillation, the magic of aging, and the joy of savoring good whiskey slowly. You might ask how they do it, but Karen and Jason draw parallels between the time and effort required to create a successful brand and the process of whiskey-making. Listen as Karen shares her expertise in marketing strategies and her involvement in the exciting upcoming Deeper Weekend conference. Don't miss out on valuable insights and actionable advice—grab your headphones and get ready for a jam-packed episode of The Thrivecast! Let's dive into the world of marketing, branding, and a little bit of whiskey. It's going to be a wild ride!

On this episode of The Thrivecast, we dive into the growth paths. Acquire. Sell. Merge. Scale. We have assembled a dynamic panel of over 20 nationally known experts with diverse experience in expanding their firms. They will share their stories, including their mistakes, lessons learned, and things they wish they had considered during the process. This year's Deeper Weekend conference in Greenville, South Carolina, will address the challenges faced by the accounting profession and guide participants through disruptive transitions in a healthy way. During the conference, attendees can expect interactive sessions followed by panel discussions and Q&A providing valuable insights from industry experts actively engaged in acquisitions, selling, merging, and scaling. We also explore traditional ways of acquiring a firm, the importance of due diligence, and the crucial role of messaging during the acquisition process. Merging a company is discussed as an alternate form of selling, requiring careful cultural integration and brand identity alignment. We also dive into the nuances of scaling, including the gradual nature of growth and the potential need for funding. In addition to the main sessions and panel discussions, Deeper Weekend offers daily roundtables where participants will be divided into smaller groups to have more intimate and guided learning experiences to directly apply to their firms and journeys. The conference is carefully designed with a thematic approach to provide consistency and depth throughout the event. Jason has curated questions to extract impactful content from the expert panelists. Join us on this episode as we explore the complexities and strategies behind acquiring, selling, merging, and scaling in the business world. Don't miss out on the practical sessions, high-level strategic information, and mind-blowing insights from our panelists. Tune in and get ready to deepen your knowledge and make informed decisions.

Nellie Akalp is the CEO of CorpNet, a business filing service that streamlines compliance across multiple states. CorpNet isn't Nellie's first business venture, though. Fresh out of law school, Nellie and her husband began working on an online business at the beginning of the internet boom that was similar to CorpNet but under the B2C umbrella. Their first business saw so much success that they were able to sell it to a publicly traded company and retire early. Nellie and her husband decided they weren't done being entrepreneurs, so they got back into the game—with a fresh twist. And that's just the beginning. Listen to Nellie share her tips for entrepreneurial success on the newest episode of the Thrivecast.

Scott Scarano might not fit the typical accountant mold, and that's just how he likes it. Scott's career got off to a rocky start—he started his own firm after finding his footing, but he quickly realized that he missed flexing his creativity. He wanted to exercise both the analytical and creative sides of his brain to live out his authentic self. Listen to Scott's story and hear how industry leaders—including Jason—inspired him to turn his "pipe dream ideas" into a reality on this episode of Thrivecast.

Randy Crabtree is the co-founder of Tri-Merit, a niche tax service that serves tax preparers. But, Randy's professional career has been a wild ride, and he's learned a lot from his experiences. He shares his predictions on the future of the accounting profession and provides some tips on how you can apply them to your firm. Elevate your firm with Jason and Randy on the newest episode of Thrivecast today!

The accounting industry is changing. Are you keeping up? Best-selling author and talk-show host Ron Baker is on the newest episode of Thrivecast. Buckle up—he's bringing the heat with insights from his new book with Paul Dunn, Time's Up!: The Subscription Business Model for Professional Firms. Ron and Jason break down ever-changing client needs and how you can keep your business thriving. Take the first step in your firm's transformation and listen to the Thrivecast today!

Creativity is a foundational aspect of accounting. Why do we overlook that fact so often? Enter James Graham, the founder and CEO of Richtr Financial Studio. Managing finances and running a firm might be his day job, but traveling and climbing all around the world has defined James and his worldview. James knew that he wasn't going to be content working a corporate job that he wasn't passionate about, so he looked to traveling and other hobbies to help him find his way. After several expeditions that broadened his perspective, James came back to America ready to pursue accounting—with a twist. Listen to James and Jason break down the structure of firms, teams, and the power of a brand.

Economists have got it wrong, and they always will. Economic theories continue to develop and affect all aspects of life, so it's time to figure out how to position yourself in the market to withstand its inevitable dips. Jason is joined by renowned economist, award-winning author, and captivating storyteller Adam Davidson to dissect economic theory and its influence on your business. Don't worry if economics isn't in your wheelhouse; Jason and Adam will cover the basics of micro vs. macroeconomics, the leadups to major economic crises, and ideologies to avoid when looking at your company's financials.

As a leader, one of your many responsibilities is balancing your team's capacity with the work that you're selling to clients. Over the past few years, the workforce's relationship with their own capacity has changed pretty drastically. On this educational episode, Jason is going to school you on the concept of "capacity" and how you can best manage your team to optimize their output while keeping them happy. You'll also learn how to handle an employee that is underperforming—an incredible valuable skill that will set your apart.

This isn't your typical episode of the Thrivecast. In this solo show, Jason dives deep into the most common wrong assumptions about leading a team. There's a chance your approach to hiring, workflow, role clarity, and personality tests are all wrong! Don't miss this opportunity to level up your firm, so grab a notebook, pen, laptop, iPad, or whatever you use to take notes—Jason's class is in session.

On this new episode of Thrivecast, Jason welcomes legendary speaker, highly sought-after consulting guru, and author, Alan Weiss. Alan formed Summit Consulting Group in 1985 and has published over 64 books along with an impressive public speaking career that has taken him to 60+ countries. Jason and Alan dig into the roots of consulting, debunking popular myths and stereotypes to prove why the consultants will never go away. You're not going to want to miss this explosive episode from one of the world's greatest consultants as Alan shares the lessons and secrets he's learned over the course of his extensive career.

We have a special guest on Thrivecast for this episode—and it's a voice you'll recognize if you joined us at Deeper Weekend last year. J.Dew is a well-known emcee around Greenville, and we're stoked to have him back for #DW22. He joins us on the Thrivecast to discuss what the life of an emcee is like behind-the-scenes and draw some parallels with entrepreneurial firm owners. Jason and J. Dew walk through Deeper Weekend and how the two of them came together to create an experience that catered to attendees, not speakers (for once). Give this podcast a listen to get an idea of how Deeper Weekend comes together, starting with signing a stellar emcee. Sign up for Deeper Weekend to hear J.Dew: https://bit.ly/3prdG9h

We're excited to have Greg Crabtree on the podcast! Greg is a speaker, author, entrepreneur, and financial expert who founded his own firm Crabtree, Rowe, and Berger, which later merged with Carr, Riggs & Ingram CPA's and Advisors. Greg spends his days helping entrepreneurs build their economic engine. An author of three books, Greg is dedicated to helping the entrepreneur community in any capacity, and frequently speaks at events like EO, Scaling Up (Gazelles), Vistage, ACETECH, and many Mastermind groups. In this episode, Jason and Greg explore the differences between advising and consulting, and cover how Greg's journey to consultancy unfolded. Jason and Greg also share helpful tips that are easy to implement into your work routine to keep a more organized system—not specific to consultants. Listen to the episode for a unique take on how firms have changed their ways from one of our industry's leading thinkers. Sign up now to hear Greg speak at Deeper Weekend, our flagship accounting conference: https://bit.ly/3prdG9h

We're sad to see our series with Sonia Dumas come to an end, but we're so excited about the information we got to cover today! In this episode, Sonia talks Jason through ways accountants and firms can apply crypto to their payroll, payments, and perks—a game-changer for future-leaning firms. She provides some forecasts and predictions once again and gives our listeners some key insights as a parting gift. Check it out! Bonus for Thrivecast Listeners: altmonie.com/cpasrock As a bonus for listening, access actionable onchain-intelligence that tracks the trends of cryptocurrencies. Follow Thriveal on social media: Twitter: twitter.com/THRIVEalCPAs Instagram: instagram.com/thrivealcpas/ LinkedIn: linkedin.com/company/thriveal/ Facebook: facebook.com/THRIVEal Join the Thriveal community: thriveal.com/apply/

Sonia Dumas continues her conversation with Jason about the pros and cons of the crypto wave. Today, they talk about some upcoming trends, which coins to steer clear from, financial censorship, and much more. Firm leaders will want to soak this one up to understand if integrating crypto into your clients' services is a good move for you. As a bonus for listening, access actionable onchain-intelligence that tracks the trends of cryptocurrencies for just $1: altmonie.com/cpasrock Follow Thriveal on social media: Twitter: twitter.com/THRIVEalCPAs Instagram: instagram.com/thrivealcpas/ LinkedIn: linkedin.com/company/thriveal/ Facebook: facebook.com/THRIVEal Join the Thriveal community: thriveal.com/apply/

Sonia Dumas joins us again on the Thrivecast to continue our series on cryptocurrency. We've already covered the theory of crypto in part 1 of this series, so Sonia talks Jason through some practical applications of this new-age currency. She outlines the key points of her analytical approach to buying and selling, along with some advice on trading altogether. She levels with Jason on what today's buyers and sellers should expect in this ever-changing landscape. Prepare to have your minds blown in this one! As a bonus for listening, access actionable onchain-intelligence that tracks the trends of cryptocurrencies for just $1: altmonie.com/cpasrock Follow Thriveal on social media: Twitter: twitter.com/THRIVEalCPAs Instagram: instagram.com/thrivealcpas/ LinkedIn: linkedin.com/company/thriveal/ Facebook: facebook.com/THRIVEal Join the Thriveal community: thriveal.com/apply/

Sonia Dumas is a crypto investor and educator, seeking to help accountants better understand how they can use crypto in their profession. She's an expert in this field, and her wealth of knowledge makes it necessary to break this topic up into 4 separate episodes. In Part 1, she walks Jason through Web3, the future of internet that includes blockchain and token-based economics. Uhh, what? That's what we said too. So plug in get ready to expand your understanding of the crypto world with Sonia! As a bonus for listening, access actionable onchain-intelligence that tracks the trends of cryptocurrencies for just $1: altmonie.com/cpasrock Follow Thriveal on social media: Twitter: twitter.com/THRIVEalCPAs Instagram: instagram.com/thrivealcpas/ LinkedIn: linkedin.com/company/thriveal/ Facebook: facebook.com/THRIVEal Join the Thriveal community: thriveal.com/apply/

Jason sits down with one of his mentors, Peter Block, an author and consultant whose work is deeply rooted in the power of human connection. In this episode, Peter shares insights on why firm owners need to realize that their profession isn't just about accounting. Listen on to find out why this shift in thinking is critical to your organization's success. Follow Thriveal on social media: Twitter: twitter.com/THRIVEalCPAs Instagram: instagram.com/thrivealcpas/ LinkedIn: linkedin.com/company/thriveal/ Facebook: facebook.com/THRIVEal Join the Thriveal community: thriveal.com/apply/

Last episode, Jason gave everyone an overview of the Prototype Components Model for Growth, our proprietary program. We're digging a little deeper today to take a look at 2 specific pieces of the puzzle: the Scaling L and the Capacity Exchange Bridge. These are critical elements to understand if you're looking to grow your firm sustainably! Grab that notepad and buckle up—let's get to learning! Want to follow along with the slides? Grab them here: https://thriveal.com/thrivecast/ Interested in joining a Thriveal program? Learn more about them: https://thriveal.com/programs/ Follow Thriveal on social media: Twitter: twitter.com/THRIVEalCPAs Instagram: instagram.com/thrivealcpas/ LinkedIn: linkedin.com/company/thriveal/ Facebook: facebook.com/THRIVEal Join the Thriveal community: thriveal.com/apply/

To kick off 2022, Jason is flying solo to drop some education about our proprietary program, the Prototype Components Model for Growth. If you've been wondering what it's like to participate in a Thriveal program, this is a great way to get your feet wet. Grab a beverage and tuck yourself in to learn all about the foundational principles we teach in our programs. Follow Thriveal on social media: Twitter: twitter.com/THRIVEalCPAs Instagram: instagram.com/thrivealcpas/ LinkedIn: linkedin.com/company/thriveal/ Facebook: facebook.com/THRIVEal Join the Thriveal community: thriveal.com/apply/ Want to follow along with the slides? Grab them here: https://thriveal.com/thrivecast/ Interested in joining a Thriveal program? Learn more about them: https://thriveal.com/programs/

Bill Sheridan is a major player in the accounting sphere. He's what we'd call an "honorary CPA," and is currently the Chief Communications Officer for the Maryland Association of CPAs. Although he's a journalist first, he's been extremely influential for CPAs around the country. He shares with Jason the changes he's sees coming soon for the accounting field. Listen to this episode to stay ahead of the game! Follow Thriveal on social media: Twitter: twitter.com/THRIVEalCPAs Instagram: instagram.com/thrivealcpas/ LinkedIn: linkedin.com/company/thriveal/ Facebook: facebook.com/THRIVEal Join the Thriveal community: thriveal.com/apply/

Tim Williams' insights on positioning for agencies and firms have been published EVERYWHERE, including The Economist and The Wall Street Journal. His book, "Positioning for Professionals," is a must-read for leaders in any industry, but it has especially valuable information for the accounting world. In this episode, Tim and Jason dive even deeper into the science of positioning, including how accounting firms can capitalize on their markets' psychology. Follow Thriveal on social media: Twitter: twitter.com/THRIVEalCPAs Instagram: instagram.com/thrivealcpas/ LinkedIn: linkedin.com/company/thriveal/ Facebook: facebook.com/THRIVEal Join the Thriveal community: thriveal.com/apply/

Dan Mall is the CEO, Founder, and Creative Director at SuperFriendly Design Systems, a one-of-a-kind creative agency. On this episode, Jason picks Dan's brain about positioning for accountants. Specifically, why it's important for firms to take steps to position themselves in the accounting marketplace. This really informative discussion is a little bit different, but SUPER valuable to firm owners. Get your pens and notepads ready! Follow Thriveal on social media: Twitter: twitter.com/THRIVEalCPAs Instagram: instagram.com/thrivealcpas/ LinkedIn: linkedin.com/company/thriveal/ Facebook: facebook.com/THRIVEal Join the Thriveal community: thriveal.com/apply

Joe Erwin is the founder of Erwin Penland (now EP+co), a massive advertising agency located in Greenville, SC. He's also the owner of the Greenville Triumph, a professional soccer team, and now leads Erwin Creates, a creative agency located in the Endeavor coworking space. Though his expertise is in a different field, Joe and Jason discuss the intricacies of managing teams in a service-based industry, including the importance of hiring and some basics for successful leadership. Follow Thriveal on social media: Twitter: twitter.com/THRIVEalCPAs Instagram: instagram.com/thrivealcpas/ LinkedIn: linkedin.com/company/thriveal/ Facebook: facebook.com/THRIVEal Join the Thriveal community: thriveal.com/apply

Greg Lafollette is a prominent consultant, speaker, and overall accounting expert, specifically in the field of technology intergration to further the profession. Greg and Jason talk about how technology has led the accounting world to what it is today and what it may become tomorrow. Insights for your firm's future await! Follow Thriveal on social media: Twitter: twitter.com/THRIVEalCPAs Instagram: instagram.com/thrivealcpas/ LinkedIn: linkedin.com/company/thriveal/ Facebook: facebook.com/THRIVEal Join the Thriveal community: thriveal.com/apply/

Join Jason and Greg in studio for a very special episode of the Thrivecast. This month marks a monumental moment for us: we've hit our ten year anniversary, which means you, dear listener, have heard 120 episodes of our podcast so far. And as we enter a new decade, we have some very big news. Tune in to hear what it is—and find out what exciting changes are coming in the future!

June 2021.

May 2021.

April 2021.