Podcasts about accounting firms

Why can a Rolex cost exponentially more than a $50 watch when both tell time?Why can Ferrari, Hermès, Apple, and Ryan Serhant create such strong demand, trust, and pricing power?And what can tax and accounting firms learn from them?In this episode of The Growth Minded Accountant, Lee Reams II and Rebekah Barton unpack what premium brands understand about value that most accounting firms often overlook.The big idea: clients don't buy expertise the way accountants think they do.Most prospects cannot evaluate technical ability before they hire a firm. Instead, they look for signals. Your positioning. Your reviews. Your website. Your content. Your visibility. Your client experience. The confidence you create before the first meeting ever happens.In an AI-driven world where basic information is becoming abundant, trust is becoming more valuable. The firms that win will not necessarily be the cheapest firms or even the most technically credentialed firms. They will be the firms that become the obvious choice.Lee and Rebekah break down how premium brands create value through trust, positioning, scarcity, visibility, simplicity, and experience — and why those same principles now matter more than ever for tax and accounting firms.If you're looking to position your firm more clearly, tell a stronger story, attract better-fit clients, and build a more premium brand, CountingWorks PRO can help.Take our free firm assessment and discover where your firm stands across positioning, visibility, client experience, and AI readiness.Start your free assessment today:https://www.countingworkspro.com/free-firm-growth-breakdown

Welcome to another episode of Building the Premier Accounting Firm. Today, Roger Knecht discusses the future of the accounting profession with Troy Lewis, an experienced CPA and BYU professor. They cover the integration of AI, the evolving roles of accountants, and strategies for firm owners to thrive in a rapidly changing landscape. In This Episode: 00:00 Introduction to Troy Lewis 01:34 Why Become an Accountant? 06:01 Bookkeeping vs. Accounting 08:10 The Entrepreneurial Accountant 19:54 Transition to Academia 25:57 Evolution of Accounting Skills: AI 34:56 Embracing AI in Accounting Firms 41:16 Investing in AI Education 46:50 Mentoring the Next Generation 50:05 Positive Perception of Accounting 59:36 AI and Foundational Skills 01:03:03 Training and AI Integration 01:13:00 Entrepreneurial Advice: Embrace Tech 01:31:37 Personal Reflections and Accountrepreneurs Challenge Featured Quotes: "The real answer is to convince them that your product is your time, and that's what you have to sell." - Troy Lewis "If you took a sophomore in college… they are going to be ill-equipped to be able to prompt appropriately into AI tools." - Troy Lewis "The future is still bright in accounting. It is bright." - Roger Knecht Conclusion: Thank you for joining us for another episode of Building the Premier Accounting Firm with Roger Knecht. For more information on how you can establish your own accounting firm and take control of your time and income, call 435-344-2060 or schedule an appointment to connect with Roger's team here. Sponsors: Universal Accounting Center Helping accounting professionals confidently and competently offer quality accounting services to get paid what they are worth.   Offers: Special Offers for our Podcast Listeners, CLICK HERE to take advantage of them today! Remember this, Accounting Success IS Universal. Be sure to listen to our next episode and subscribe.   Also, let us know what you think of the podcast and please share any suggestions you may have.  We look forward to your input: Podcast Feedback For more information on how you can apply these principles to start and build your bookkeeping, accounting, & tax business, please visit us at www.universalaccountingschool.com or call us at 801-265-3777.  And know that if it's about accounting, it's Universal.

In this episode, Adam Torres interviews Kashif Ali, Founder & CEO of TaxGPT, about his entrepreneurial journey from journalism to technology and how TaxGPT is revolutionizing the tax industry with AI. Kashif shares how his company is helping accounting firms dramatically increase productivity, simplify tax research, and democratize access to tax information for professionals, businesses, and individuals. About Kashif Ali As the Chief Executive Officer of TaxGPT, he led the vision and strategy of a startup that automates tax filing using artificial intelligence and natural language processing. With over 15 years of experience in digital media, web development, and entrepreneurship, he has the skills and knowledge to create innovative and user-friendly solutions for complex problems. His mission is to empower individuals and businesses to file taxes easily and accurately, saving them time and money. He also supports the global founder community as an Entrepreneur in Residence at Draper University, where he helps build and enable the entrepreneurial ecosystem in developing countries. He is passionate about learning, education, and digital transformation, and he constantly seeks new opportunities to grow and challenge myself.  Watch Full Episode on ⁠Youtube⁠. --- Follow Adam on Instagram at ⁠https://www.instagram.com/askadamtorres/⁠ for up to date information on book releases and tour schedule. Apply to be a guest on our podcast: ⁠https://missionmatters.lpages.co/podcastguest/⁠ Visit our website: ⁠https://missionmatters.com/⁠ More FREE content from Mission Matters here: ⁠https://linktr.ee/missionmattersmedia Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

In this episode, Adam Torres interviews Kashif Ali, Founder & CEO of TaxGPT, about his entrepreneurial journey from journalism to technology and how TaxGPT is revolutionizing the tax industry with AI. Kashif shares how his company is helping accounting firms dramatically increase productivity, simplify tax research, and democratize access to tax information for professionals, businesses, and individuals. About Kashif Ali As the Chief Executive Officer of TaxGPT, he led the vision and strategy of a startup that automates tax filing using artificial intelligence and natural language processing. With over 15 years of experience in digital media, web development, and entrepreneurship, he has the skills and knowledge to create innovative and user-friendly solutions for complex problems. His mission is to empower individuals and businesses to file taxes easily and accurately, saving them time and money. He also supports the global founder community as an Entrepreneur in Residence at Draper University, where he helps build and enable the entrepreneurial ecosystem in developing countries. He is passionate about learning, education, and digital transformation, and he constantly seeks new opportunities to grow and challenge myself.  Watch Full Episode on ⁠Youtube⁠. --- Follow Adam on Instagram at ⁠https://www.instagram.com/askadamtorres/⁠ for up to date information on book releases and tour schedule. Apply to be a guest on our podcast: ⁠https://missionmatters.lpages.co/podcastguest/⁠ Visit our website: ⁠https://missionmatters.com/⁠ More FREE content from Mission Matters here: ⁠https://linktr.ee/missionmattersmedia Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

In this episode of the Grow My Accounting Practice podcast, Ron and Liz sit down with Jason Snider to discuss the realities of managing remote and hybrid teams in today's accounting profession. As more firms embrace flexible work environments, Jason shares practical insights from his experience leading and growing a distributed team while maintaining strong client service, accountability, and company culture. Throughout the conversation, Jason explains that successful remote management goes far beyond simply allowing employees to work from home. He emphasizes the importance of creating intentional systems, clear expectations, and consistent communication practices that keep team members aligned and engaged. Rather than focusing on micromanagement, he encourages firm owners to build trust and accountability into their processes so employees can thrive independently while still feeling connected to the larger mission of the firm. The discussion also explores the unique challenges firm owners face when balancing flexibility with performance. Jason talks about how leadership styles must evolve in a hybrid environment, especially when it comes to collaboration, employee development, and maintaining culture across geographically dispersed teams. The group dives into how firms can avoid common pitfalls like isolation, lack of communication, and inconsistent workflows by creating more structure and clarity around team operations. In addition, Jason shares how remote and hybrid models can actually become a competitive advantage for firms looking to recruit and retain top talent. By offering flexibility while still maintaining high standards and strong systems, firms can create a healthier work environment that benefits both employees and clients alike. If you're navigating remote work, managing a hybrid team, or looking to build a more scalable and resilient accounting firm, this episode provides practical guidance on how to lead effectively in a modern workplace while keeping your team connected, productive, and engaged. Jason's LinkedIn:https://www.linkedin.com/in/thejasonsnider/ Corporate Partner:Michelle Weinstein, The Abundant Accountant Profit First App Version 2.0 is here!More Education. More Functionality. More Profit!

What does it actually look like to build a hiring process for your accounting firm that finds the right person every time, without expensive software, without guesswork, and without starting from scratch every time a role opens up?In this session, Dani and Kristy from the Wize team break down exactly how to take the chaos out of hiring, whether you are doing it yourself or working with a talent team, and why a clear process will always beat an expensive platform.✅ Why AI screening tools can quietly eliminate your best candidates before you ever see them ✅ How a simple scorecard takes the emotion out of comparing candidates and why that changes everything ✅ The hiring mistake Kristy made that cost her a client manager in two days, and what she does differently now ✅ Why software experience should almost never be the reason you say no to a great candidate ✅ How your capacity planner tells you exactly who to hire before you even start looking ✅ The reference check tool worth paying for, and why it catches what interviews almost always missIf you have been bringing people on and hoping for the best, wondering why it keeps going wrong, this episode is your reminder that the right process and the right support can change the way you hire faster than you think.________________  PS: Whenever you're ready… here are the fastest 4 ways we can help you fix and grow your accounting firm:   1. Download our famous Wize Freedom Map for FREE - Find out the 96 projects every firm owner must implement to build a $5M+ firm that can run without them - Download here 2. Need to Hire right now? Book a 1:1 FREE discovery call with our WizeTalent hiring coaches to help find your next team member the Wize Way – Click Here 3. Work with Jamie and our mentors for 8 weeks - Build a custom business plan for your firm - Apply here

Most tax and accounting firms still market themselves the same way they did a decade ago.Generic messaging.Generic positioning.Generic websites.The problem?AI-powered search is changing how clients discover and choose accounting firms — and sameness is becoming invisible.In this special presentation episode, Lee Reams II (CEO of CountingWorks) and Rebekah Barton (Chief Visibility Officer) break down why modern firms must rethink visibility, authority, trust, and positioning in the AI-search era.You'll learn:• Why AI compresses generic firms into the same result• How accounting firms accidentally commoditize themselves• The narrative formula behind firms clients actually remember• Why your website is now a trust system — not a brochure• The new visibility signals AI search tools are rewarding• How “Future Firms” are separating themselves from the market

AI is already here. If you are still billing by the hour and running your team on timesheets, you are building on a foundation that is cracking fast. Blake Oliver, Founder and CEO of Earmark and one of Accounting Today's top 100 most influential people, talks about the billing revolution happening right now in accounting. Blake breaks down why the billable hour is the root of inefficiency in accounting firms, how AI agents are replacing routine staff work, and what the future of fixed-fee and subscription billing looks like for small and mid-sized CPA firms.Blake Oliver did not take the traditional accounting route. He started as a musician, stumbled into bookkeeping, and became one of the earliest cloud accounting adopters in the U.S. — the second bookkeeper certified on Xero in the country. If you want to stay ahead and build a firm that thrives in the next decade, this is the episode to press play on. Tune in to The Billing Revolution: AI, Time, and the Future of Accounting Firms with Blake Oliver.Episode resources:● Website: https://anderscpa.com/ ● If you have questions or would like to be a guest on the show, email us at mcpasuccessshow@anderscpa.com ● Check out the Virtual CFO Playbook Course:  https://anderscpa.com/virtual-cfo-services/vcfo-playbook/   QuotesBlake Oliver: "Timesheets are the root of all evil in accounting. It creates a culture of inefficiency and resistance to change."Tom Wadelton: "You could probably double your revenue with the existing team. That is real money. Not cutting headcount, but growing without needing more people to do it."Adam Hale: “If I see you are working too much, I am going to be asking what is wrong. Your job is to push work down, use technology, and stretch your reach."Blake Oliver is the Founder and CEO of Earmark, the app that lets CPAs and accounting professionals earn free continuing professional education by listening to podcasts. A CPA and one of Accounting Today's top 100 most influential people in the profession, Blake started his career as a musician before building one of the first cloud-based bookkeeping practices in the U.S. and becoming the second Xero-certified bookkeeper in the country. Website: https://www.blakeoliver.com/   LI: https://www.linkedin.com/in/blaketoliver/ YT: https://www.youtube.com/@BlakeTOliver  Connect with Earmark:LI: https://www.linkedin.com/company/earmarkcpe/     The Modern CPA Success Show is the go-to podcast for accounting firm owners eager to enhance profitability and master Virtual CFO services. This podcast leverages combined expertise in delivering top-tier Virtual CFO services across North America.Website: https://anderscpa.com/learn/podcasts/the-modern-cpa-success-show/  Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/AndersCPA LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/company/anders-cpa/ Instagram:

In this episode, Mark catches up with Kylie Denton, founding director of Performance Advisory Group, bestselling author, and one of Australia's most respected thought leaders in leadership and sales within financial services. With over 30 years in the industry (her words, not ours!), Kylie pulls no punches on one of the accounting profession's most persistent blind spots: promoting technically brilliant people into leadership roles and then leaving them to figure it out on their own. In this conversation, they cover: Why the skills that make a great accountant can actually work against you as a leader The 25 core competencies leaders need, and why most firms aren't developing any of them Delegation: why "I can do it better myself" is costing your firm more than you think Leading multigenerational teams, and why it's less about generational conflict and more about opportunity What younger professionals actually want, and why ignoring it is a talent strategy with a short shelf life Kylie's practical, no-nonsense approach makes this one genuinely useful for partners, managers, and anyone navigating the shift from doing great work to leading people who do great work. You can contact Kylie via her website: www.performanceadvisorygroup.com.au And also connect via LinkedIn  

Most tax and accounting firms think growth comes from more clients.More referrals.More SEO.More tax returns.More volume.But what if the biggest growth opportunity is already sitting inside the clients you already serve?In this episode of The Growth Minded Accountant, Lee Reams and Rebekah Barton break down why the future of accounting firms is shifting from reactive tax preparation toward proactive tax advisory, year-round strategy, and deeper client relationships.Using a powerful “dentist office” analogy, they explore why most firms never build the “second room” — the space where strategic conversations, tax planning, advisory services, and higher-value relationships actually happen.This episode covers: The difference between tax preparation and tax advisory  How firms can unlock 2–5X more revenue from existing clients  Why most firms miss advisory opportunities already inside their database  The advisory signals accountants should be watching for  How to talk about advisory without sounding salesy  Why client nurture changes retention and profitability  The role of AI and automation in scaling advisory services  How modern firms are becoming more proactive and less reactive If you've ever felt like your firm is working harder every year just to maintain growth, this episode will completely reframe how you think about revenue, relationships, and the future of accounting.Because the firms that win won't just process returns faster.They'll build the second room. Request a free Growth & Advisory Assessment to see where hidden opportunities may already exist inside your client base.

On this episode of the Woodard Report podcast, Joe speaks with Kacee Johnson about how artificial intelligence is reshaping the accounting profession far beyond simple efficiency gains. They discuss the difference between firms that are reacting to AI with quick-fix tools versus those strategically rethinking their entire operating model, including pricing, staffing, advisory services, and client expectations. Kacee also shares insights on AI hype versus reality, the future of advisory-focused firms, and the mission behind the new AI Native Accounting Foundation to help firms navigate AI adoption responsibly and effectively. About Kacee Johnson Kacee is a fintech innovation leader who lives at the intersection of emerging tech and practical transformation. She has been honored as CPA Practice Advisor's Top 25 Thought Leaders, Accounting Today's Top 100 Most Influential, AICPA's Most Powerful Women, and is a Certified Corporate Director from NACD. As an independent nonprofit, the AI Native Accounting Foundation equips firms and finance teams to adopt AI with confidence through education, research, and recognition thereby moving the profession past hype and into practice. Learn more about the AI Native Accounting Foundation Connect with Kacee Johnson on LinkedIn Thank you to our show sponsor, Digits! Digits is the world's first agentic general ledger. It is accounting software that works for you. Built from the ground up for the AI era, Digits automates bookkeeping in month end, shifting your team from data entry to review and advisory. Visit Digits.com to get started today. Learn more about the show and our sponsors at Woodard.com/podcast

Here's that Delphi app we discussed in Nerd corner https://www.delphi.ai/And a link to my own Delphi assistant https://www.delphi.ai/jasonstaats/chat

Ric Payne has been thinking about how accountants build better practices for decades. If you have been in the industry for a while, you likely know about Ric Payne. He co-founded Results Accounting Systems in 1992, ran the Accountants Boot Camp across multiple continents, and worked with thousands of firms around the world. His conclusion? High-performing firms are selective about who they work with. The conversation also features Ian Brennan, director of Accounting Practice Academy (APA), a PGA workshop. Ian and Ric discuss how intentional client selection is foundational to everything else a firm tries to do; from pricing and marketing to advisory services and succession planning. This episode is for firm owners curious about how strategic client selection creates pricing power and referral momentum, practitioners ready to build a client base that supports an advisory practice, CPA firm leaders wondering how to increase net profit without simply chasing more revenue, and accountants who want to build a practice they are genuinely excited to show up for.Timestamps:0:00 - Introduction to The Accountant's Flight Plan podcast and guests3:11 - Overview of the episode: client selection and Ric's white paper6:42 - Why having no client criteria means having no strategy7:33 - Steve Jobs on what not to do: the decision framework that changed Ric's approach9:01 - The four growth profiles: fast-start satisfier, opportunistic harvester, & the patient builder15:15 - The founder's gap vs. the Midas gap: two very different CPA firm outcomes19:07 - Baker's Law: bad clients drive out good clients20:54 - Why partners with lower utilization often have the highest net profit per partner23:18 - Systems theory: your CPA firm is perfectly designed for the results it gets26:58 - John Wooden's definition of success and why it applies to accounting firm owners32:53 - Case study: UK accounting firm replaces ten 1,000-pound clients with one 10,000-pound client37:01 - Dealing with imposter syndrome when stepping into an advisory role41:11 - The 11 client selection criteria: the full walkthrough begins57:05 - Roger Martin's Playing to Win [https://www.amazon.com/dp/142218739X ]and how it applies to accounting practice management1:00:44 - Brannon on how the criteria tie back to personality, results, and client experience1:05:46 - APA lesson: You cannot market your accounting firm if you don't know who your clients are1:08:13 - How to find Ric Payne and access the client selection white paperDownload Now: https://poegroupadvisors.com/accounting-practice-academy/increase-letter/Price increases are nothing to fear. The real challenge is effectively informing clients of these changes. Our templates will help you demonstrate your value and help clients understand the increases necessary to keep your firm afloat.*Download now and receive:*- (1) Major Fee Increase Letter Template- (1) 20% Fee Increase Letter Template

Why are so many firms struggling to attract and retain accountants? In this episode of Accountants Minute Podcast, Peter Towers explores the talent challenges facing accounting firms in Australia, and why younger accountants are looking for more meaningful, advisory-driven work. He discusses how broadening your services beyond compliance can help your firm build stronger teams, deliver greater value to SME clients, and position itself as a true Key Strategic Partner. You can also access our podcast on: Amazon Music Apple Podcasts Audible Spotify YouTube  

What happens when AI starts doing the audit work itself? Blake and David dig into KPMG's prediction that routine audit testing could soon happen with almost no human auditors directly involved. They also cover the IRS's unfinished AI projects, the end of Direct File, new tax-on-tips rules, and why firms investing more in marketing are growing faster. Press play to hear what these shifts could mean for accountants, firms, and clients.Sponsors Cloud Accountant Staffing - http://accountingpodcast.promo/casOnPay - http://accountingpodcast.promo/onpayWurthy - http://accountingpodcast.promo/wurthyChapters(00:00) - Audits Without Humans (00:22) - Tax Day Show Kickoff (02:30) - When Tax Day Hit Post Office (04:34) - E Filing Ends The Party (05:23) - This Week Top Stories (05:58) - Warehouse Fire Accounting Impact (08:52) - Compliance Time Cost (11:04) - No Tax On Tips Rules (13:44) - IRS AI Projects Stall (14:43) - Direct File Cost Debate (17:30) - Xero Os Buzzword Critique (20:32) - Can Ai Replace QuickBooks (21:23) - Reddit Claude Accounting System (22:45) - Firms Lose Stack Control (23:27) - AI Makes More Cleanup (23:58) - Tidwell Spreadsheet Accounting (25:13) - Tax Preparer Fraud Cases (27:17) - Big Four Audit Automation (30:58) - EY Office Mandate and Careers (34:01) - Firm Growth Marketing and AI (36:19) - Audit Lawsuits and Penalties (40:19) - Juno AI Tax Prep Funding (42:27) - Workers Skipping AI Review (44:36) - Agentic Frameworks and Omni (47:19) - Wrap Up and Free CPE  Show NotesHow Tax Day Turned Into Party Night at the Post Officehttps://www.history.com/articles/tax-day-partiesAmericans to Spend 11.6 Billion Hours Completing Federal Compliance Formshttps://www.cpapracticeadvisor.com/2026/03/16/americans-to-spend-11-6-billion-hours-completing-federal-compliance-forms/179866/IRS Publishes List of Jobs That Qualify for 'No Tax on Tips' Provisionhttps://www.cnbc.com/2026/04/13/irs-tax-on-tips-big-beautiful-bill.htmlIRS AI Projects Fall by the Wayside Due to Staff Cutshttps://www.accountingtoday.com/news/irs-ai-projects-fall-by-the-wayside-due-to-staff-cutsIRS Inflated Direct File Costs by $45 Million in 2025https://www.cpapracticeadvisor.com/2026/03/25/irs-inflated-direct-file-costs-by-45-million-in-2025/180237/Xero OS: Your Operating System for the Future of Autonomous Financehttps://blog.xero.com/news-events/xero-os-ai-native-operating-system/Tidwell — MCP Accounting Server (Reddit reference)https://www.tidwell.comWarehouse Worker Charged in $500M Arson Attack at Kimberly-Clark Distribution Centerhttps://abc7.com/post/employee-arrested-arson-kimberly-clark-distribition-center-destroyed-massive-fire-ontario/18851549/New Jersey Tax Preparer Sentenced in Largest COVID-19 Tax Relief Fraud Casehttps://www.justice.gov/usao-nj/pr/new-jersey-man-sentenced-prison-largest-covid-19-tax-relief-fraud-scheme-countryPennsylvania Tax Preparer Jessica Cordero Faces Federal Charges in New Fraud Schemehttps://www.justice.gov/usao-edpa/pr/allentown-woman-and-two-others-charged-federal-court-wire-fraud-and-aggravated-identityIn This Critical Part of Audits, the Accountant's Role Is Shrinking Fasthttps://www.wsj.com/finance/accounting/auditors-ai-kpmg-pwc-ey-7f07d3a5KPMG Plans to Cut Up to 440 Audit Jobs in UKhttps://www.bloomberg.com/news/articles/2026-03-27/kpmg-set-to-shed-hundreds-of-auditors-as-attrition-remains-lowEY Requiring U.S. Tax Staff to Work In-Person 12 Days a Monthhttps://www.accountingtoday.com/news/ey-requiring-us-tax-staff-to-work-in-person-12-days-a-monthAI Is Changing How EY Recruits, Develops and Promotes Employeeshttps://www.businessinsider.com/ey-ai-talent-career-paths-accounting-2026High-Growth Accounting Firms Spend Twice as Much on Marketinghttps://hingemarketing.com/blog/story/marketing-financial-services-the-2025-forecastEvergrande Liquidators and PwC Head to Courthttps://www.accountingtoday.com/news/evergrande-liquidators-and-pwc-head-to-courtOntario Securities Commission Accuses KPMG of Botching Audits for Bridging Financehttps://www.accountingtoday.com/news/ontario-securities-commission-accuses-kpmg-of-botching-audits-for-bridging-financeJuno Raises $12M Seed to Scale AI Tax Preparation Platformhttps://www.cpapracticeadvisor.com/2026/04/13/juno-raises-12m-seed-to-scale-ai-tax-preparation-platform-that-automates-90-of-busy-work/181502/AI Slop Survey: A Third of Workers Rarely Check AI Output Before Using Ithttps://www.cpapracticeadvisor.com/2026/04/08/ai-slop-survey-a-third-of-workers-rarely-check-ai-output-before-using-it/181191/Agentic AI Frameworks and Artifact's Omni Platform Launchhttps://www.artifact.buildNeed CPE?Get CPE for listening to podcasts with Earmark: https://earmarkcpe.comSubscribe to the Earmark Podcast:

This special panel episode, recorded live at Accounting Business Expo, explores AI tools that are genuinely useful right now for accounting firms. With perspectives from firm owners and a software vendor, the discussion covers practical implementation, guardrails, and real-world results. Chris Wheatley, Kylie Baxter, and Tim Garth share how AI fits into their tech stacks Liam Hindle shares MYOB's vendor perspective, including how AI is automating BAS preparation and removing the “work around the work” so accountants can focus on higher-value advice. Meeting transcription tools like Otter, Fireflies and Copilot are becoming essential Workflow automation using tools like n8n and ClickUp is reducing admin time AI agents, sentiment analysis and BAS automation are emerging opportunities Guardrails matter: paid accounts, privacy settings, and compliance boundaries are critical The conversation reinforces that AI is not about hype. It is about removing grunt work so accountants can focus on strategic client advice and better outcomes. Apps & Tools Mentioned: Otter – https://otter.ai Fireflies – https://fireflies.ai Microsoft Copilot – https://copilot.microsoft.com Practice Ignition – https://www.practiceignition.com Ignition – https://www.ignitionapp.com Practice Protect – https://practiceprotect.com Change GPS – https://www.changegps.com Dext – https://dext.com MYOB AE – https://www.myob.com/au/products/practice-solutions/accountants-enterprise AccountKit – https://www.accountkit.com.au Xero XPM – https://www.xero.com/au/practice-manager BGL – https://www.bglcorp.com BGL Infinity – https://www.bglcorp.com/infinity Annature – https://annature.com.au Seamless – https://www.seamless.com.au Content Snare – https://contentsnare.com Law Cyborg – https://lawcyborg.ai n8n – https://n8n.io ClickUp – https://clickup.com Claude – https://claude.ai Cursor – https://cursor.sh Glean – https://www.glean.com Abby – https://www.abby.com.au OMBLE – https://www.omble.com.au Planful AI – https://www.planful.ai MYOB AI BAS – https://www.myob.com Twine Apps – https://twineapps.com.au Twine Biller – https://twineapps.com.au Xero – https://www.xero.com Intuit – https://www.intuit.com Employment Hero – https://employmenthero.com Episode resources and links: Chris Wheatley, Director, Scope Accounting : https://www.linkedin.com/in/chris-wheatley-fca-29398533/  Scope Accounting : https://www.scopeaccounting.com.au/  Small Business Accountants & Advisers Brain Trust, Australia FaceBook Group https://www.facebook.com/groups/977122739056681    Kyelie Baxter, Managing Director, IQ Accountants https://www.linkedin.com/in/kyelie-baxter-fcpa-43224334/ https://iqaccountants.com.au/   Tim Garth, Podcountant, Director and Co-host of the Two Drunk Accountants Podcast, CATS Accountants https://www.linkedin.com/in/tim-garth-11721370/  CATS Accountants : https://catax.com.au/  Two drunk Accountants : https://twodrunkaccountants.com.au/    Liam Hindle, General Manager - Product, MYOB https://www.linkedin.com/in/liamhindle/  https://www.myob.com/au    Accounting & Business Expo : https://www.terrapinn.com/exhibition/accounting-business-expo/index.stm    If this episode helped you, the best way to support the show is to leave a review somewhere as it helps more people find us. And if you want to continue the conversation, come find me Heather Smith | Accountant and Storyteller on:   LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/HeatherSmithAU/  Accounting Apps newsletter: http://accountingapps.io/  Accounting Apps Mastermind: https://www.facebook.com/groups/XeroMasterMind  YouTube Channel: https://www.youtube.com/ANISEConsulting  X: https://twitter.com/HeatherSmithAU

Discover why only 15% of SMEs see their accountant or bookkeeper as a Key Strategic Partner, while many firms believe they are already delivering that level of service. In this episode, Peter Towers explores the disconnect, the missed advisory opportunities, and the practical questions firms need to start raising to become more valuable to their SME clients. You can also access our podcast on: Amazon Music Apple Podcasts Audible Spotify YouTube

Watch this episode on YouTube: https://youtu.be/FgS2rJttm7I Thank you to our Season Partners for making this series possible.Fieldguide is the AI-native platform for audit and advisory enabling human and AI collaboration to scale capacity, improve quality and transform how firms operate. fieldguide.ioKarbon is the global leader in AI-powered practice management software for accounting firms. Their research into how technology is reshaping firm performance is essential reading for anyone leading a firm in 2026. karbonhq.comDigits is the AI-powered financial intelligence platform helping accounting firms and their clients make faster, smarter decisions with their numbers. digits.comAccounting Voices is a senior sense-making platform for firm owners, managing partners and senior operators navigating the forces reshaping accounting firms. Host Rob Brown convenes structured conversations with leaders across the profession to interpret what AI, private equity, consolidation and leadership pressure mean in practice.This season, AI Reality Inside Firms, brings together senior accounting firm leaders answering the same five structured questions about how AI is actually landing inside firms, separating execution from narrative.Find all episodes on your preferred podcast platform or on the Accounting Voices YouTube channel. https://www.youtube.com/@accountingvoicesTo find out more or to explore season partnership opportunities, connect with Rob on LinkedIn. https://www.linkedin.com/in/therobbrown

Artificial intelligence is putting accounting firm leaders on alert for workers well-versed in using and managing the new tools as the industry invests heavily in modernizing workflows. Firms should be staying attuned to the talent market and updating their salary structures accordingly to both attract early-career workers and retain staff looking to climb the ranks, according to Dominic Piscopo, founder of compensation data analytics firm Big 4 Transparency. They should also be having transparent conversations with their workers so compensation isn't a "black box." "Having transparency in those models and being willing to talk about it with people—not just have this very kind of cold process where a number is thrown out—can make all the difference, even if the number is exactly the same," Piscopo told Bloomberg Tax. Big Four accounting firms—EY, Deloitte, PwC, and KPMG—have started equipping staff with AI tools that promise increased efficiency and improved workflows. The new tech is prompting the industry at large to examine its workforce strategies and pricing models to stay competitive and attract talent. In this week's Talking Tax, Piscopo sat down with Bloomberg Tax reporter Jorja Siemons to discuss how firms and workers alike can navigate the current talent market. Do you have feedback on this episode of Talking Tax? Give us a call and leave a voicemail at 703-341-3690.

What does the data actually say about where accounting firms are headed? Blake Oliver talks with Chelsea Summers of Inside Public Accounting about the real numbers behind firm performance, pricing, staffing, offshoring, advisory growth, and AI adoption. You'll hear why top firms aren't just working people harder, how offshore teams are boosting margins, and why hourly billing may be the biggest obstacle to using technology well.Chapters(00:00) - EAP 112 (04:45) - Advisory vs compliance mix (09:40) - Capacity and burnout signals (18:27) - Pricing models and billable hour (25:08) - AI ROI and adoption blockers (29:37) - About IPA and closing Sign up to get free CPE for listening to this podcasthttps://earmarkcpe.comhttps://earmark.app/Download the Earmark CPE App Apple: https://apps.apple.com/us/app/earmark-cpe/id1562599728Android: https://play.google.com/store/apps/details?id=com.earmarkcpe.appConnect with Our Guest, Chelsea SummersLinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/chelseasummers620/Learn more about Inside Public Accountinghttp://insidepublicaccounting.comConnect with Blake Oliver, CPALinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/blaketoliverTwitter: https://twitter.com/blaketoliver/

In this episode of Amplify, host Cassy Clayman speaks with Neil Barrow, founder of Enabled BD, about the intricacies of building a business development function within accounting firms. They explore the common challenges firms face, the importance of tracking and marketing, and how technology, including AI, can enhance business development efforts. Neil emphasizes the need for a cultural shift towards growth and accountability, highlighting the role of leadership in driving change. The conversation provides valuable insights for firms of all sizes looking to improve their business development strategies. Guest: Neil Barrow | EnableBD Host: Cassy Clayman | Topel Forman

If your firm's growth has hit a plateau, you might be looking for answers in outsourcing or capital infusions. However, Jennifer Wilson suggests a different perspective: the primary constraint facing firm leaders today is the people-power behind the work. Success in the modern landscape is less about the "how" and entirely about the "who." Check out the blog here to learn more.    

Roger Knecht and Mary Delaney, CEO of Karbon, discuss the cultural shift of AI in accounting. Learn how to leverage AI-powered accounting software and transform your firm's operations. This episode offers practical advice for accounting professionals looking to build premier firms and embrace technological advancements. In This Episode: 00:00 Introduction to Karbon & AI in Accounting 04:03 AI: A Cultural Shift for Firms 09:44 Practical AI Applications in Accounting 14:20 AI's Role in Advisory & Value-Based Pricing 19:24 Impactful Client Relationships: Joe's Story 26:49 Thriving in Accounting: Mindset & Future 35:54 Gratitude and Closing Thoughts Key Takeaways: Leverage existing software partners to integrate AI into your accounting practice. Cultivate a culture of AI adoption within your firm through training and leadership. Transition from historical analysis to forward-thinking CFO advisory services for clients. Understand and communicate your value to clients to implement value-based pricing effectively. Prioritize client relationships and proactive communication to make a meaningful impact on small businesses. Featured Quotes: "AI doesn't just change the tools or technology in the firm. It changes habits, expectations, roles, and the defined outcomes of the people that are using it." — Mary Delaney "The accounting bookkeeper community people believe that all boats rise together, that there's a reason to help others." — Mary Delaney "We are powered by small businesses. To me, the accounting and bookkeeping profession is really the power behind small businesses." — Mary Delaney Behind the Story: Mary Delaney, CEO of Karbon, shares her vision for the accounting profession, emphasizing the critical role of AI in moving beyond transactional tasks to a more advisory, client-facing approach. She illustrates this with stories of accountants making profound differences in their clients' lives, highlighting the relational aspect of the profession. The discussion underscores the importance of leadership in driving cultural change and embracing technology to enhance efficiency and client value. Conclusion: Thank you for joining us for another episode of Building the Premier Accounting Firm with Roger Knecht. For more information on how you can establish your own accounting firm and take control of your time and income, call 435-344-2060 or schedule an appointment to connect with Roger's team here. Sponsors: Universal Accounting Center Helping accounting professionals confidently and competently offer quality accounting services to get paid what they are worth.   Offers: Are you ready for a change, both personally and professionally?  Then accept and participate in the Accountrepreneurs Challenge.  This is a FREE opportunity to apply best practices and make this the best year yet in your career.   Karbon isn't just another tool—it's embedding AI into the very infrastructure of how accounting firms work. It simplifies daily tasks, reduces manual work, and frees up teams to focus on higher-value advisory services. Listeners can learn more or book a demo at karbonhq.com.    Download Karbon's 2025 State of AI in Accounting Report to explore how AI is transforming accounting firms and where the biggest opportunities lie. (https://karbonhq.com/resources/state-of-ai-accounting-report-2025/)    Download Karbon's 2025 Practice Excellence Report for Accounting Firms for a roadmap that guides accounting firms on their journey to practice excellence. (https://karbonhq.com/practice-excellence/)    Get a FREE copy of these books all accounting professionals should use to work on their business and become profitable.  These are a must-have addition to every accountant's library to provide quality CFO & Advisory services as a Profit & Growth Expert today: "Red to BLACK in 30 days – A small business accountant's guide to QUICK turnarounds" – This is a how-to guide on how to turn around a struggling business into a more sustainable model. Each chapter focuses on a crucial aspect of the turnaround process - from cash flow management to strategies for improving revenue. This book will teach you everything you need to become a turnaround expert for small businesses. "in the BLACK, nine principles to make your business profitable" – Nine Principles to Make Your Business Profitable – Discover what you need to know to run the premier accounting firm and get paid what you are worth in this book, by the same author as Red to Black – CPA Allen B. Bostrom. Bostrom teaches the three major functions of business (marketing, production and accounting) as well as strategies for maximizing profitability for your clients by creating actionable plans to implement the nine principles. "Your Strategic Accountant" - Understand the 3 Core Accounting Services (CAS - Client Accounting Services) you should offer as you run your business. Help your clients understand which numbers they need to know to make more informed business decisions. "Your Profit & Growth Expert" - Your business is an asset. You should know its value and understand how to maximize it. Beginning with the end in mind helps you work ON your business to build a company you can leave so that it can continue to exist in your absence or build wealth as you retire and enjoy the time, freedom, and life you want and deserve. Follow the Turnkey Business plan for accounting professionals.  This is the proven process to start and build the premier accounting firm in your area.  After more than 40 years we've identified the best practices of successful accountants and this is a presentation we are happy to share.     Also learn the best practices to automate and nurture your lead generation process allowing you to get the bookkeeping, accounting and tax clients you deserve.  GO HERE to see this presentation and learn what you can do today to identify and engage with your ideal clients.   Check it out and see what you can do to be in business for yourself but not by yourself with Universal Accounting Center.   It's here you can become a:   Professional Bookkeeper, PB Professional Tax Preparer, PTP Profit & Growth Expert, PGE   Next, join a group of like-minded professionals within the accounting community.  Register to attend GrowCon and Stay up-to-date on current topics and trends and see what you can do to also give back, participating in relevant conversations as they relate to offering quality accounting services and building your bookkeeping, accounting & tax business.   The Accounting & Bookkeeping Tips Facebook Group The Universal Accounting Fanpage Topical Newsletters: Universal Accounting Success The Universal Newsletter   Lastly, get your Business Score to see what you can do to work ON your business and have the Premier Accounting Firm. Join over 70,000 business owners and get your score on the 8 Factors That Drive Your Company's Value.   For Additional FREE Resources for accounting professionals check out this collection HERE!   Be sure to join us for GrowCon, the LIVE event for accounting professionals to work ON their business. This is a conference you don't want to miss.   Remember this, Accounting Success IS Universal. Listen to our next episode and be sure to subscribe.   Also, let us know what you think of the podcast and please share any suggestions you may have.  We look forward to your input: Podcast Feedback   For more information on how you can apply these principles to start and build your accounting, bookkeeping & tax business please visit us at www.universalaccountingschool.com or call us at 8012653777  

What happens when AI starts cutting audit bills? Blake and David unpack KPMG's push for a 14% fee cut from Grant Thornton, Botkeeper's shutdown versus Pilot's “AI accountant,” and how agents like Claude are already doing real client work. You'll hear why entry-level roles are vanishing, what tax pros need to know about the IRS's new e-payment push and Tax Pro Account upgrades, plus a fun detour: DJ John Summit's Tax Day album.SponsorsUNC - http://accountingpodcast.promo/uncOnPay - http://accountingpodcast.promo/onpayCloud Accountant Staffing - http://accountingpodcast.promo/casChapters(00:00) - KPMG's AI-Driven Audit Fee Reduction (00:28) - Welcome to the Accounting Podcast (00:53) - Blake's First Time at the Waste Management Open (02:00) - John Summit: From Accountant to DJ Superstar (04:39) - John Summit's Accounting-Themed Album (09:44) - Earmark CPE: Easy CPE Credits for Accountants (12:34) - The Rise and Fall of AI Bookkeeping Startups (24:48) - Pilot's Autonomous AI Accountant (26:50) - Partnering with Accounting Firms (29:59) - AI in Bookkeeping and Accounting (33:33) - Impact of AI on Accounting Jobs (40:27) - Trump's $10 Billion Lawsuit Against the IRS (44:40) - IRS Updates and Tax Pro Accounts (49:53) - KPMG's AI Acquisition (51:14) - Airlines Save Millions with Weight Loss Drugs (52:58) - Conclusion and CPE Information  Show NotesKPMG pressed its auditor to pass on AI cost savings https://www.irishtimes.com/business/2026/02/06/kpmg-pressed-its-auditor-to-pass-on-ai-cost-savings/Botkeeper is Closing Its Doors https://www.cpapracticeadvisor.com/2026/02/09/botkeeper-is-closing-its-doors/177677/Botkeeper shuts down https://www.accountingtoday.com/news/botkeeper-shuts-downAnthropic AI Tool Sparks Selloff From Software to Broader Market https://www.bloomberg.com/news/articles/2026-02-03/legal-software-stocks-plunge-as-anthropic-releases-new-ai-toolAI fears pummel software stocks: Is it 'illogical' panic or a SaaS apocalypse? https://www.cnbc.com/2026/02/06/ai-anthropic-tools-saas-software-stocks-selloff.htmlPilot launches fully autonomous AI bookkeeper https://www.accountingtoday.com/news/pilot-launches-fully-autonomous-ai-bookkeeperPilot Rolls Out Fully Autonomous AI Accountant https://www.cpapracticeadvisor.com/2026/02/04/pilot-rolls-out-fully-autonomous-ai-accountant/177453/Pilot Unveils AI Accountant https://pilot.com/blog/pilot-unveils-ai-accountant-a-major-leap-toward-artificial-general-intelligence-in-accountingStartup Accrual Officially Launches with $75M in Funding to Bring AI-Native Automation to Accountinghttps://www.cpapracticeadvisor.com/2026/02/05/startup-accrual-officially-launches-with-75m-in-funding-to-bring-ai-native-automation-to-accounting/177600/Tax platform Accrual launches with AI automation support for all forms https://www.accountingtoday.com/news/tax-platform-accrual-launches-with-ai-automation-support-for-all-formsAccrual Launches with $75 Million to Bring AI-Native Automation to Accountinghttps://www.businesswire.com/news/home/20260205968515/en/Accrual-Launches-with-$75-Million-to-Bring-AI-Native-Automation-to-AccountingGoldman Sachs leads $75 million funding round for Fieldguide, an AI-native accounting and audit platformhttps://fortune.com/2026/02/02/goldman-sachs-fieldguide-accounting-cpa-ai-software-platform-venture-capital/Fieldguide Raises $75M Series C Round to Boost Audit and Advisory Firms' Agentic AI Capabilitieshttps://www.cpapracticeadvisor.com/2026/02/02/fieldguide-raises-75m-series-c-round-to-boost-audit-and-advisory-firms-agentic-ai-capabilities/177323/Fieldguide Raises $75M Series C from Goldman Sachs to Help Audit and Advisory Firms Grow with Agentic AIhttps://www.globenewswire.com/news-release/2026/02/04/3232133/0/en/Pilot-Unveils-AI-Accountant-A-Major-Leap-Toward-Artificial-General-Intelligence-in-Accounting.htmlTrump, two sons, Trump Org sue IRS, Treasury for $10 billion over tax records leak https://www.cnbc.com/2026/01/29/trump-sues-irs-and-treasury-for-10-billion-over-leak-of-tax-records.htmlTrump sues IRS and Treasury Department for $10 billion over leaked tax records https://www.nbcnews.com/politics/donald-trump/trump-sues-irs-treasury-department-10-billion-leaked-tax-records-rcna256626Trump Sues Treasury and IRS for $10 Billion Over Tax Data Leak https://www.taxnotes.com/featured-news/trump-sues-treasury-and-irs-10-billion-over-tax-data-leak/2026/01/30/7txmzKPMG Brings Aboard AI Development Platform PrivateBlok https://www.cpapracticeadvisor.com/2026/02/09/kpmg-adds-ai-development-platform-privateblok/177729/KPMG acquires PrivateBlok, team will support AI developments https://www.accountingtoday.com/news/kpmg-acquires-privateblok-team-will-support-ai-developmentsKPMG Bolsters AI Product Development Function...

Growing accounting firms often misdiagnose turnover and capacity issues. Erin Daiber explains why these problems usually start at the partner level, how trust breakdowns create hidden churn, and what firms must fix first before hiring or offshoring. The firms that stabilize fastest focus on leadership alignment, clear expectations, and disciplined workflows. Resources: Erin Daiber's LinkedIn - linkedin.com/in/cpacoacherin

Most tax and accounting firms don't actually have a pricing problem.They have a pricing system problem.In this episode of Growth Minded Accountant, we break down why traditional pricing models — hourly billing, fixed fees, even “value pricing” — keep breaking as firms grow, adopt AI, and move toward advisory services.

In this episode of Pulse of the Practice, Mo Arbas and Paul Miller sit down with Fady Hawatmeh, founder of Clockwork, to explore what advisory really means in today's accounting landscape—and what it will take to scale it successfully.Fady shares the origin story behind Clockwork, why he built an AI‑native FP&A platform from the ground up, and how firms can move from rear‑view reporting to forward‑looking insight. The conversation dives into mindset shifts, why most “AI hype” misses the mark, and how agentic AI will soon function as a true financial planning team—not just a tool.If you're an accounting firm looking to modernize advisory services, improve client experience, and understand where AI truly adds value, this episode is packed with practical insight and honest perspective.

Show Summary: In this GMAP episode, Brandon Hall joins the conversation to break down what actually holds accounting firms back from meaningful scale—and why technology alone isn't the answer. Drawing from his experience as a CPA, firm founder, and real estate investor, Brandon explains why most firms don't have an operations problem—they have a sales and leadership problem. He challenges the idea that sales should be "balanced" with operations, arguing instead that healthy firms intentionally let sales outpace operations to force growth, systems, and accountability. The discussion dives into why firms stuck at the $1M mark struggle to reach $10M, highlighting the real blockers: weak accountability, the absence of a true leadership team, and outdated governance models that reward mediocrity over ownership. Brandon also addresses the role of AI, making it clear that while technology can enhance efficiency, it won't replace accountants who lead, think critically, and guide clients strategically. This episode is a must-listen for firm owners who want to scale with intention, build strong leadership structures, and move beyond survival-mode growth into long-term, sustainable success.   Website:www.therealestatecpa.com LinkedIn:https://www.linkedin.com/in/brandonhallcpa/ Facebook:https://www.facebook.com/realestatecpa Twitter: @TheRECPA   Corporate Partner:Kick - https://www.kick.co/ Profit First App Version 2.0 is here!  More Education. More Functionality. More Profit!

On an episode of the Growing Your Firm podcast, David Cristello spoke with William Hamilton IV, founder of SmartPath, about why pricing problems often sit underneath many operational issues firms experience. William has spent more than a decade studying how accounting firms price services and where those models tend to break down. Rather than focusing on theory, the conversation centered on how firms can think more clearly about pricing, packaging, and value in real client situations.

Think AI will free you from ‘mundane bookkeeping' so you can do advisory? Blake and David say it's the opposite. Hear how owners already use AI as a de facto CFO, why drafting narratives—not matching bank feeds—is the real win, what the ‘AI premium' means in a billable-hour world, and the two numbers firm owners should track in 2026: monthly recurring revenue and bottom-line profit.SponsorsUNC - http://accountingpodcast.promo/uncOnPay - http://accountingpodcast.promo/onpayTaxBandits - http://accountingpodcast.promo/taxbanditsChapters(01:35) - News Highlights and Sponsor Acknowledgements (03:56) - AI in Small Business Accounting (07:04) - AI's Impact on Accounting Tasks (10:01) - Thought Leader Survey on AI in Accounting (19:56) - AI Premium and Job Automation (25:27) - Survey Answers from Accounting Thought Leaders (25:54) - AI's Role in Strategy and Decision Making (28:24) - Impact of AI on Competitive Landscape (30:50) - AI's Effect on Costs in Accounting Firms (31:54) - AI Replacing Staff Accountants (33:24) - Personal Job Security and AI (41:05) - AI Influencers and Future Experiments (49:24) - Conclusion and CPE Information  Show NotesThese Small-Business Owners Are Putting AI to Good Use https://www.wsj.com/tech/ai/small-business-ai-chatgpt-prompts-0c9a95c4 AI Thought Leaders Survey 2026: Process Predictions https://www.accountingtoday.com/list/ai-thought-leaders-survey-2026-process-predictions Tech Spending Outpacing People Spending as Firms Adopt AI https://www.accountingtoday.com/list/tech-spending-outpacing-people-spending-as-firms-adopt-ai How Much is the 'AI Premium?' https://www.accountingtoday.com/list/how-much-is-the-ai-premium AI Can't Replace Accountants. When Could It? https://www.accountingtoday.com/list/ai-cant-replace-accountants-when-could-it Accounting in 2026: The Year Ahead in Numbers https://www.accountingtoday.com/list/accounting-in-2026-the-year-ahead-in-numbers AI Vending Machine Lost $1,000 to Social Engineering https://www.wsj.com/tech/ai/anthropic-ai-claude-vending-machine-c7baef6f Anthropic's Project Vend Phase 2 https://www.anthropic.com/research/project-vend-2 Trump Commutes Sentence of Private Equity CEO Convicted of Fraud https://www.cnn.com/2025/12/01/politics/david-gentile-trump-pardon Trump Commutes 7-Year Prison Sentence of Former Private Equity CEO David Gentile https://www.nbcnews.com/politics/white-house/trump-commutes-7-year-prison-sentence-former-private-equity-ceo-david-rcna246744 California's Controversial Wealth Tax Proposal Leaves Billionaires With Little Way Out https://www.cnbc.com/2026/01/08/california-wealth-tax-proposal-leaves-billionaires-with-little-way-out.html California Could Impose a Billionaire Tax. Here's How It Would Work https://www.cbsnews.com/news/california-billionaire-tax-ballot-initiative-how-it-works/ New Tax on the Wealth of Billionaires https://lao.ca.gov/BallotAnalysis/Initiative/2025-024Need CPE?Get CPE for listening to podcasts with Earmark: https://earmarkcpe.comSubscribe to the Earmark Podcast: https://podcast.earmarkcpe.comGet in TouchThanks for listening and the great reviews! We appreciate you! Follow and tweet @BlakeTOliver and @DavidLeary. Find us on Facebook and Instagram. If you like what you hear, please do us a favor and write a review on Apple Podcasts or Podchaser. Call us and leave a voicemail; maybe we'll play it on the show. DIAL (202) 695-1040.SponsorshipsAre you interested in sponsoring The Accounting Podcast? For details, read the prospectus.Need Accounting Conference Info? Check out our new website - accountingconferences.comLimited edition shirts, stickers, and other necessitiesTeePublic Store: http://cloudacctpod.link/merchSubscribeApple Podcasts: http://cloudacctpod.link/ApplePodcastsYouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@TheAccountingPodcastSpotify: http://cloudacctpod.link/SpotifyPodchaser: http://cloudacctpod.link/podchaserStitcher: http://cloudacctpod.link/StitcherOvercast: http://cloudacctpod.link/OvercastWant to get the word out about your newsletter, webinar, party, Facebook group, podcast, e-book, job posting, or that fancy Excel macro you just created? Let the listeners of The Accounting Podcast know by running a classified ad. Go here to create your classified ad: https://cloudacctpod.link/RunClassifiedAdTranscriptsThe full transcript for this episode is available by clicking on the Transcript tab at the top of this page

Is private equity turning firms into a 'dumpster fire'? Blake and David unpack Accounting Today's survey showing partners are upbeat while staff are sour on PE. They hit Andersen's $176M IPO, why Big Four ties to Big Tech raise independence questions, and how AI could finally kill the billable hour. Plus, what tax pros really charge in 2025 - and the wild 'Middle Finger Ranch' fraud.SponsorsOnPay - http://accountingpodcast.promo/onpay Cloud Accountant Staffing - http://accountingpodcast.promo/casChapters(00:56) - Private Equity in Accounting Firms (01:51) - Sponsor Message: OnPay Payroll Solutions (04:15) - Arthur Andersen's Legacy and IPO (07:45) - Private Equity Survey Results (21:04) - Big Four and Tech Giants (28:25) - Pricing Models for CAS Engagements (30:22) - Tax Preparers' Fees Breakdown (36:12) - Cloud Accountant Staffing (37:34) - Economic Growth and Consumer Spending (40:26) - Fraud Stories: Middle Finger Ranch and More (43:24) - PCAOB Budget Cuts and Enforcement Actions (52:29) - IRS Readiness for Tax Season (53:43) - Conclusion and Upcoming Topics  Show NotesPE in accounting firms: From 'dumpster fire' to excitementhttps://www.accountingtoday.com/news/pe-in-accounting-firms-from-dumpster-fire-to-excitement Andersen Group Shares Gain 47% After $176 Million US IPOhttps://www.bloomberg.com/news/articles/2025-12-17/andersen-group-shares-jump-34-after-176-million-us-ipo Andersen goes public, hits $2.6B valuationhttps://thefinancestory.com/andersen-group-ipo-2-6b-valuation The Big Four consulting firms are embedded in Big Tech. Here's who audits each of the Magnificent 7 companieshttps://www.businessinsider.com/big-four-accounting-audits-magnificent-seven-financial-records-2025-12 What do tax preparers charge? https://www.accountingtoday.com/news/what-do-tax-preparers-charge How much do tax professionals charge in 2025? Insights from NATP's Fee Studyhttps://www.natptax.com/news-insights/blog/how-much-do-tax-professionals-charge-in-2025-insights-from-natp-s-fee-study/ U.S. economic growth surges in third quarter to 4.3%https://www.washingtonpost.com/business/2025/12/23/gdp-economy-consumer-spending/ The US economy expanded at the fastest pace in two years as wealthier Americans kept spending https://www.cnn.com/2025/12/23/economy/us-gdp-q3 Kansas accountant diverted family funds to fictitious 'Middle Finger Ranch'https://kansasreflector.com/briefs/kansas-accountant-diverted-family-funds-to-fictitious-middle-finger-ranch/ Kansas Accountant, Who Created Fictitious 'Middle Finger Ranch' for Fraud Scheme, Sentenced to 4 Years in Jailhttps://www.cpapracticeadvisor.com/2025/12/04/kansas-accountant-who-created-fictitious-middle-finger-ranch-for-fraud-scheme-sentenced-to-4-years/174381/ PCAOB to tighten budget in 2026 https://www.accountingtoday.com/news/pcaob-to-tighten-budget-in-2026 PCAOB Approves 2026 Budget https://pcaobus.org/news-events/news-releases/news-release-detail/pcaob-approves-2026-budget Accounting Firms Must Stop Charging for Timehttps://cpatrendlines.com/2025/12/02/accounting-firms-must-stop-charging-for-time/ Dirty money gangster jailed over plot worth almost £12mhttps://www.dailyrecord.co.uk/news/scottish-news/dirty-money-gangster-jailed-over-36410033 PCAOB Sanctions CPA for Violations Related to Audit Evidence and Her Former Audit Firm for Quality Control Issueshttps://pcaobus.org/news-events/news-releases/news-release-detail/pcaob-sanctions-cpa-for-violations-related-to-audit-evidence-and-her-former-audit-firm-for-quality-control-issues Ahead of Tax Filing Season, Warren, King, 15 Senators Warn of Tax Filing Chaos After Trump Admin Attacks on IRShttps://www.warren.senate.gov/newsroom/press-releases/ahead-of-tax-filing-season-warren-king-15-senators-warn-of-tax-filing-chaos-after-trump-admin-attacks-on-irsNeed CPE?Get CPE for listening to podcasts with Earmark: https://earmarkcpe.comSubscribe to the Earmark Podcast: https://podcast.earmarkcpe.comGet in TouchThanks for listening and the great reviews! We appreciate you! Follow and tweet @BlakeTOliver and @DavidLeary. Find us on Facebook and Instagram. If you like what you hear, please do us a favor and write a review on Apple Podcasts or Podchaser. Call us and leave a voicemail; maybe we'll play it on the show. DIAL (202) 695-1040.SponsorshipsAre you interested in sponsoring The Accounting Podcast? For details, read the prospectus.Need Accounting Conference Info?&n...