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Sentiment about the U.S. economy improved slightly — but not nearly enough to be considered a positive outlook — in the latest quarterly Business and Industry Economic Outlook Survey by the AICPA and CIMA. For a breakdown of the results, the JofA podcast welcomed back Ken Witt, CPA, CGMA, associate director–Management Accounting Research & Development. He discusses finance decision-makers' views on tariffs and inflation and the 12-month projections for revenue and profit. What you'll learn from this episode: · The “softening” related to domestic economic conditions — and why that's not enough to overcome mainly negative sentiment. · The percentage of executives who foresee a recession this year or next. · Finance leaders' approaches in response to tariffs. · The top challenges beyond inflation facing survey respondents. · How respondents feel about the state of the global economy.
The accounting profession faces a reckoning as leaders debate whether CPA licensure protects the public—or stifles innovation and diversity.Accounting ARCWith Byron Patrick and Donny ShimamotoCenter for Accounting TransformationLicensure is one of the bedrock features of the CPA profession. But what if that bedrock is actually quicksand? In a provocative episode of Accounting ARC, hosts Donny Shimamoto, CPA.CITP, CGMA; and Byron Patrick, CPA.CITP, CGMA, sit down with noted author and thought leader Ron Baker to ask: Should CPAs even be licensed at all? MORE Accounting ARC: CPA Firm Ownership Under Fire | Walking Violation: When Showing Your CPA Gets You in Trouble | Audit Bags to TikTok Tags, Gen Z Talks Success | Students Challenge Accounting's Traditional Career Path | True Grit: Recognizing Struggles That Shape Our Successes | More Admins, Fewer Students, No Plan | What Career Advice Gets Wrong for Gen Z - And How to Fix It |Your Identity is Not a Liability | What Happens in Vegas… Gets Reported on a Tax Return | Burnout, Be Gone: Accounting Needs a Boundary Breakthrough | The Ultimate Business Hack You're Probably Ignoring | Resilience, Real Talk, and the Road to Mental Wellness | Blockchain Could Still Reshape Accounting | What Gen Z Wants from Business | Firm Differentiation Depends Upon Client Service Baker begins with a history lesson, tracing professions back to ancient Babylon and the code of Hammurabi. A profession, he explains, rests on three pillars: a common body of expertise, autonomy with exclusion, and a duty of service to the public. By that definition, he argues, not all licensed occupations—such as florists or interior decorators—qualify.
“Maybe I never will change the whole world. But every day, I can change my world.” Those are the words of profession leader Lindsay Stevenson, CPA, CGMA. She's back on the JofA podcast, this time in person from her house in South Dakota. Stevenson discussed technology adoption, how her firm approaches remote work, and why keeping a journal at least for part of the year is important to her. Stevenson, chief transformation officer at the firm BPM, also addressed how she views fear as it relates to career moves — and how she thought about that differently in a 2019 conversation. What you'll learn from this episode: The reason her firm has geographical regions and a virtual region. Why unplugging is difficult but necessary for Stevenson. Why she likes an at-home vacation more than a big trip. Her approach to overcoming fear and how that approach has changed in the past six years. AI: its danger, its potential, and how she is using it. The gratitude-based journaling practice she recommends.
“We're not short on things to do.” Those are the words of Mark Koziel, CPA, CGMA, CEO of the Association of International Certified Professional Accountants and president and CEO of the AICPA. He's been in that role since the start of the year and traveled all over the world hearing from members. Summer's end seemed like a good time for a progress report on a variety of fronts from Koziel, who at the time of publication was visiting Asia. This is a special edition of the podcast, published jointly on the Journal of Accountancy and FM channels. What you'll learn from this episode: · Koziel's ideal walkup song, nearly a year after his introduction included Ozzy Osbourne's “Mama, I'm Coming Home.” · The skills gap affecting businesses around the world. · Global influence on accounting and standard setting. · Advocacy success, specifically in the United States. · The significance of preserving the passthrough entity tax deduction. · Examples of the perseverance that helped deliver that advocacy victory. · An update on CPA licensure efforts.
Mark Koziel, CPA, CGMA, is CEO of the Association of International Certified Professional Accountants and president and CEO of the AICPA. He's been in that role since the start of the year and travelled all over the world hearing from members. Summer's end seemed like a good time for a progress report on a variety of fronts from Koziel, who at the time of publication was visiting Asia. This is a special edition of the podcast, published jointly on the Journal of Accountancy and FM channels. What you'll learn from this episode: The skills gap affecting businesses around the world. Global influence on accounting and standard setting. An explanation of Rise 2040 and what it will mean for finance professionals. The role of hard and soft trends in strategic planning exercises. Why a 2026 report release is not the end of the Rise 2040 project. What Koziel has learned about himself now that he's had nearly eight months on the job.
As private equity reshapes the profession, accounting leaders debate who should hold the keys to ownership. Accounting ARCWith Liz Mason, Byron Patrick, and Donny ShimamotoCenter for Accounting TransformationWhen New York passed the first CPA licensure law in 1896, the goal was simple: protect the public by ensuring financial professionals met high standards. More than a century later, that mandate is at the heart of a heated debate about who should be allowed to own CPA firms. MORE Accounting ARC: Walking Violation: When Showing Your CPA Gets You in Trouble | Audit Bags to TikTok Tags, Gen Z Talks Success | Students Challenge Accounting's Traditional Career Path | True Grit: Recognizing Struggles That Shape Our Successes | More Admins, Fewer Students, No Plan | What Career Advice Gets Wrong for Gen Z - And How to Fix It |Your Identity is Not a Liability | What Happens in Vegas… Gets Reported on a Tax Return | Burnout, Be Gone: Accounting Needs a Boundary Breakthrough | The Ultimate Business Hack You're Probably Ignoring | Resilience, Real Talk, and the Road to Mental Wellness | Blockchain Could Still Reshape Accounting | What Gen Z Wants from Business | Firm Differentiation Depends Upon Client Service In the latest episode of Accounting ARC, hosts Liz Mason, CPA; Byron Patrick, CPA.CITP, CGMA; and Donny Shimamoto, CPA.CITP, CGMA, explore the evolution of firm ownership rules and their implications for the profession.
Today I am speaking with Dave Chase from Health Rosetta, and I'm asking Dave Chase three inferno-level burning questions—questions that, across the country, many self-insured employers are trying to find the answers to. For a full transcript of this episode, click here. If you enjoy this podcast, be sure to subscribe to the free weekly newsletter to be a member of the Relentless Tribe. Now, an important underlying point that comes across loud and clear but remains unsaid, actually, in the conversation that follows is this: There are amazing brokers and EBCs (employee benefit consultants) and benefits advisors or TPAs (third-party administrators) who put their clients first and have the receipts (ie, they have data and they're willing to share it to prove this). And then there are those with the exact same titles, often enough, who are very much the opposite of this but super charming, I'm sure. I mean, it'd be a stretch to assume that the same roles don't apply to brokers or EBCs that apply for titles like hospital administrators where there's great ones and really not great ones; but everybody often gets lumped into the same category or even the term hospitals. Each of these terms is a broad stroke and contains multitudes. And do listen to the bonus clip from two weeks ago with Jonathan Baran for just more on this point. We dig into it for like 10 minutes or something. I also talk about this same concept in an upcoming episode with Mick Connors, MD. So, keep that underlying and unsaid theme in mind because a lot of these questions do boil down to, How do you figure out who's on the up-and-up and who's not? And if you need an example of the latter category, listen to the show with Ann Lewandowski (EP476) about the whistleblower lawsuit or the show with AJ Loiacono (EP379) about the myriad of brokers taking $7 or $14 per script written payable by the PBM (pharmacy benefit manager) and not reported on, as far as I know. This is very much still going on today, by the way, despite the CAA (Consolidated Appropriations Act) and the 5500 forms. Alright, so, first burning question, Question 1: After seeing J&J (Johnson & Johnson) and Wells Fargo sued for fiduciary breaches, what specific questions do I need to ask my benefits advisor to prove that my benefits advisor actually protects my interests? Okay, paraphrased, this question is employers trying to figure out what they can ask or how they can figure out if their benefits advisor or broker or employee benefit consultant is really as trustworthy as they'd like you to believe they are. There's been a whole bunch of shows that circle up on this. The thing is, though, the stakes are very, very high right now. So, yeah, I can see why this is turning into a burning question for anyone worried they might get sued personally unless they can figure out how to vet, for real in writing, who their broker, EBC, or advisor serves actually at the end of the day. Question 2 that I ask Dave Chase, and I'm not giving you the answers to these questions. You gotta listen to the show. But here's the second question I ask: How do I avoid personal liability when my TPA contract has hidden conflicts that could trigger an ERISA (Employee Retirement Income Security Act) lawsuit? Kind of a continuation of Question 1, but yeah, you can tell that self-insured employer teams are really digging in here and many, many are very aware of, first of all, the extent and depth of middle people doing things like, again, allegedly taking $20 million of employer clients' money and funding their executive bonus pool. So, yeah, definitely this is another doozy of a burning question. Also on these same topics, listen to the show with Justin Leader (EP433) and also the one with Cynthia Fisher (EP457) about spread pricing. Question 3 that I ask Dave Chase: My pharmacy costs keep climbing despite PBM guarantees. How do I tell if I am being systematically overcharged? Well, if your consultants are taking your rebates to fund their executive bonus pools, as I just mentioned there's a whole show about with Ann Lewandowski, or if they're taking $7 a script for every script that gets written for your members, which, yeah, that's afoot. I've seen the contracts and the cease and desists currently flying around our industry about that one. Or read that Osceola County lawsuit against their longtime brokers. Bottom line and end of this intro, informed employer teams are, for sure, wondering these questions. But even more than just wondering, what these questions signify to me, kind of at the macro level, they're realizing the danger of kind of sitting on that knowledge or just assuming that because everybody else is doing whatever, it's somehow safe—though status quo is getting kind of more and more dicey every single day. As some additional foreshadowing, this show finishes up with Dave Chase talking about the open-source resources that are available so that you too can create a high-performance health plan where members get higher-quality healthcare and, as Dave Chase says, the cost savings for free. There are links to many things that you can get from Health Rosetta and their sister company, Nautilus. Again, all the stuff is for free. Go to nautilushealth.org. That's their main Web site. Dave Chase, who has been on this podcast—I think this is his third time, although it has been a while—Dave Chase is co-founder and CEO of Health Rosetta. Also mentioned in this episode are Health Rosetta; Jonathan Baran; Mick Connors, MD; Ann Lewandowski; AJ Loiacono; Chris Deacon; VerSan Consulting; Justin Leader; Cynthia Fisher; Nautilus; Andreas Mang; Blackstone; Jon Camire; Claire Brockbank; Elizabeth Mitchell; Scott Haas; Paul Holmes; Chris Crawford; Luke Slindee, PharmD; Mark Cuban; Marilyn Bartlett, CPA, CGMA, CMA, CFM; Leah Binder; and Dawn Cornelis. You can learn more at Health Rosetta and follow Dave on LinkedIn. Dave Chase is on a mission to restore hope, health, and economic well-being to communities through healthcare transformation. As creator of the community-owned health plan (COHP) model, he is building a nationwide movement that turns health plans from drivers of wage stagnation into vessels for well-being and wealth creation. As founder of Health Rosetta, Dave has helped transform healthcare for thousands of employers covering more than five million Americans. What began with identifying just five successful health plans nationwide has grown into a movement with thousands of sustainable successes that deliver superior care at 20% to 50% lower costs. In 2024, his team launched Nautilus Health Institute, catalyzed with $4 million in Health Rosetta intellectual property and investment. Nautilus provides open-source standards, contracting templates, and technology infrastructure (including METL, an open-source healthcare data platform) that establish new market norms benefiting employers, clinicians, and communities. Dave's work in healthcare transformation has reached over 10 million people through best-selling books (The CEO's Guide to Restoring the American Dream, The Opioid Crisis Wake-up Call, Relocalizing Health), media, TED Talks, and TV/film appearances. He has received the World Health Care Congress's Lifetime Achievement Award for Health Benefits Innovation. Dave is dedicated to transforming healthcare through transparency, community ownership, and proven solutions that restore the American Dream. 06:36 What questions does a plan sponsor need to ask their consultant, EBC, or broker to ensure they are protecting the interest of the plan sponsor? 07:59 EP478 with Andreas Mang and Jon Camire. 08:49 EP453 with Claire Brockbank. 09:51 EP433 with Justin Leader. 09:53 EP436 with Elizabeth Mitchell. 11:03 How can plan sponsors avoid personal liability when their TPA has hidden conflicts of interest? 11:40 Tiara Yachts v. Blue Cross Blue Shield of Michigan lawsuit. 13:48 EP483 (Part 1) with Jonathan Baran. 14:18 EP457 with Cynthia Fisher. 16:18 The Marshall-Hickenlooper bill called the Price Tags Act. 16:50 Summer Short with Elizabeth Mitchell. 17:36 How do plan sponsors figure out if they are being overcharged for pharmacy benefits? 18:09 EP365 with Scott Haas. 20:18 EP397 with Paul Holmes. 20:22 EP465 with Chris Crawford. 20:37 EP429 with Luke Slindee, PharmD. 22:56 EP476 with Ann Lewandowski. 28:38 Where to find open-source resources to help guide plan sponsors with making better health plan decisions. 29:47 How the open-source trend is growing for health transparency. 30:48 What to look forward to at RosettaFest. You can learn more at Health Rosetta and follow Dave on LinkedIn. @chasedave discusses questions #plansponsors need to ask on our #healthcarepodcast. #healthcare #podcast #financialhealth #patientoutcomes #primarycare #digitalhealth #healthcareleadership #healthcaretransformation #healthcareinnovation Recent past interviews: Click a guest's name for their latest RHV episode! Jonathan Baran (Part 2), Jonathan Baran (Part 1), Jonathan Baran (Bonus Episode), Dr Stan Schwartz (Summer Shorts), Preston Alexander, Dr Tom X Lee (Take Two: EP445), Dr Tom X Lee (Bonus Episode), Dr Benjamin Schwartz, Dr John Lee (Take Two: EP438), Kimberly Carleson, Ann Lewandowski (Summer Shorts), Andreas Mang and Jon Camire (EP479)
State boards, private equity, and outdated laws are forcing CPAs to downplay the very credential that defines them.Accounting ARCWith Liz Mason, Byron Patrick, and Donny ShimamotoCenter for Accounting TransformationFor many CPAs, the three letters after their name are more than a credential—they're a badge of honor. Yet, a new wave of regulatory challenges and firm structures is calling into question when, where, and even if CPAs are allowed to use the designation they worked so hard to earn. MORE Accounting ARC: Audit Bags to TikTok Tags, Gen Z Talks Success | Students Challenge Accounting's Traditional Career Path | True Grit: Recognizing Struggles That Shape Our Successes | More Admins, Fewer Students, No Plan | What Career Advice Gets Wrong for Gen Z - And How to Fix It |Your Identity is Not a Liability | What Happens in Vegas… Gets Reported on a Tax Return | Burnout, Be Gone: Accounting Needs a Boundary Breakthrough | The Ultimate Business Hack You're Probably Ignoring | Resilience, Real Talk, and the Road to Mental Wellness | Blockchain Could Still Reshape Accounting | What Gen Z Wants from Business | Firm Differentiation Depends Upon Client Service In the latest episode of Accounting ARC, hosts Liz Mason, CPA; Byron Patrick, CPA.CITP, CGMA; and Donny Shimamoto, CPA.CITP, CGMA, dig into one of the most contentious issues facing the profession: restrictions on displaying the CPA license in alternative practice structures and across state lines.
Tom Hood, Executive Vice President of Business Growth and Engagement at the AICPA, shares his perspective on the forces shaping the future of accounting and finance through Accounting and Finance 2040: Rise to the Future Together.In this conversation, Tom discusses the rapid evolution of the finance function, driven by generative AI, digital transformation, shifting business models, and changing workforce expectations. He examines the skills professionals will need to thrive, highlighting adaptability, curiosity, and strategic thinking alongside technical expertise.Tom also offers practical advice for finance leaders and professionals on how to prepare themselves and their teams for what is coming next.Resources:Tom Hood, CPA, CGMA, CITP, EVP Business Engagement & Growth, AICPA LinkedInMcKinsey Reports on CFO PrioritiesDeloitte CFO Signals ReportGartner Finance Insights
For Carrie Kruse, CPA, CGMA, mental clarity is one goal of going on vacation. Also, Kruse likes to be tested while away from her job as economic development administrator for Iowa's capital city, Des Moines. In Kruse's words, she loves “to be challenged in ways outside of my professional sphere.” Recently, that challenge was a hike of more than 100 mountainous miles in Europe. That challenge also meant she unplugged from work for two weeks, which helped to ensure she returned to Iowa refreshed. This conversation is the first of a three-episode road trip to the Midwest with a theme of summer travel and the importance of taking time away. Episodes with finance leaders in Nebraska and South Dakota are coming later in the summer. What you'll learn from this episode: · The particulars of Kruse's economic development role. · Why she says that Des Moines punches above its weight. · The type of vacation Kruse takes depending on the time of year. · How a recent trip to Europe underscored the importance of unplugging. · The value of serving on the Government Performance and Accountability Committee.
In this episode of Student-led Conversations, accounting leaders and emerging pros share how staying open can change everything.Accounting ARCWith Arpan Grewal and Harshita MultaniCenter for Accounting TransformationIn an era where the definition of success is increasingly personal, a recent Student-led Conversations episode of the Accounting ARC podcast brought together two Gen Z hosts and two seasoned accounting leaders to unpack a deceptively simple question: What does “freedom to be” really mean? MORE Accounting ARC: Students Challenge Accounting's Traditional Career Path | True Grit: Recognizing Struggles That Shape Our Successes | More Admins, Fewer Students, No Plan | What Career Advice Gets Wrong for Gen Z - And How to Fix It |Your Identity is Not a Liability | What Happens in Vegas… Gets Reported on a Tax Return | Burnout, Be Gone: Accounting Needs a Boundary Breakthrough | The Ultimate Business Hack You're Probably Ignoring | Resilience, Real Talk, and the Road to Mental Wellness | Blockchain Could Still Reshape Accounting | What Gen Z Wants from Business | Firm Differentiation Depends Upon Client Service For hosts Arpan Grewal and Harshita Multani, both interns with the Center for Accounting Transformation, this wasn't about GPAs or résumés. Instead, they explored how independence, cultural influences, and resilience intersect in the personal and professional lives of accountants.Joining them were Kristine “Tina” Caratan, CPA, CGMA, a veteran consultant to California's nonprofit sector with 51 years in the profession, and Calvin Harris Jr., CPA, CEO of the New York State Society of CPAs. The discussion spanned immigrant family expectations, systemic barriers, generational shifts, and even the unexpected role of TikTok in modern accounting outreach.
What if nonprofits could actually deliver 85% of donations straight to the mission, and ditch the admin sludge that holds them back? In this episode, Matt and Luigi sit down with impact strategist Missy Mastel (CPA, CGMA), founder of Masstel Consulting. They unpack how nonprofits (and even for-profits) can streamline operations, leverage AI, and build purpose-driven cultures. Highlights include administrative hacks, fundraising wisdom, and how social-good strategies attract both donors and top talent. Here's what you'll learn: ✅ How nonprofits evolved from Roman corporations to IRS tax code heroes ✅ Why 85% of donations should hit the mission—and how Missy makes that happen ✅ The real difference between nonprofits, foundations, and B Corps ✅ How to fast-track your 501(c)(3) approval—and avoid rookie mistakes ✅ Why corporations like Subaru and Rolex use impact as a marketing play ✅ How younger donors give monthly on autopilot—and why that's gold ✅ The secret to landing big-name donors: talk to the marketing team, not the CEO ✅ What a “triple bottom line” really means—and why your org needs it to stay relevant ✅ Estate planning, charitable trusts, and how Boomers are making peace with the planet Who is Missy? Missy S. Mastel, CPA, CGMA, is the founder and principal at Masstel Consulting. She streamlines nonprofit admin, accounting, fundraising, board development, and AI automation, so mission folks can actually do the good. Author of Generation Giving Back, and creator of ImpactNonprofits.co, a matchmaking database connecting nonprofits and for-profit partners.
Experts outline the flexible framework that works for a three‑person shop or a 30,000‑employee enterprise.Innovation InsightsWith Donny ShimamotoCenter for Accounting TransformationArtificial intelligence is advancing too quickly for organizations to adopt a “wait-and-see” approach, according to experts on the latest episode of Innovation Insights.Host Donny Shimamoto, CPA.CITP, CGMA, speaks with Jason Pikoos and David Wood, co-authors of the new Generative AI Governance Framework, about how companies can responsibly integrate AI into their operations.MORE Donny Shimamoto“Governance isn't optional,” says Pikoos, former managing partner of client experience for Connor Group. “It's good hygiene for any organization—whether you're a three-person shop or a multinational.”The framework outlines 69 control considerations in areas such as bias risk, human oversight, and process integration. It is not a checklist to be blindly completed, the authors stress, but a flexible guide that organizations can tailor to their needs.
The latest podcast episode provides a preview of content in the August digital edition of FM. To focus on the edition's overall theme of sustainability, FM editor-in-chief Oliver Rowe and podcast host Neil Amato are joined for the episode by Jeremy Osborn, FCMA, CGMA, FCPA (Australia), global head of sustainability at the Association of International Certified Professional Accountants. Rowe summarises articles on topics such as change fatigue, circular business models, Excel Compatibility Versions, and landing a finance job in the era of AI-enabled hiring. Osborn focuses on the state of adoption of global sustainability standards and how the standards will affect the role of finance and accounting professionals. What you'll learn from this episode: · Highlights of the August digital edition cover an article on change fatigue. · Osborn's assessment of the “accelerating” global adoption of IFRS S1 and IFRS S2 sustainability standards. · How the UK's sustainability standards differ slightly from the IFRS standards. · A definition and examples of circularity in business. · Other highlights from the FM digital edition, including an article on Excel Compatibility Versions.
In this episode of The Faces of Business, Nolan Bradbury, Principal at Bradfield Accounting, shared how understanding the right financial numbers can unlock real freedom for business owners. Nolan is a seasoned financial expert and business coach with over two decades of experience helping owners go beyond profit to achieve clarity, control, and confidence. As a CPA and CGMA, he has guided businesses from rapid growth through uncertainty to intentional success. At Bradfield Accounting, Nolan empowers owners who feel stuck—working harder but getting less—or those who sense things are “off” despite profitability. His approach helps identify what's draining resources and shift business finance from stress to strategy. Join us to discover how Nolan's insights can help you create a business that supports your life instead of consuming it. Learn what numbers truly matter, and how they can help you gain the freedom you set out to build in the first place. Check out the Blog post here: The Numbers for Increasing Business Owner Freedom Thanks for taking the time to listen today. Find Damon Pistulka on LinkedIn talking about life & building businesses you can sell or succeed. On Twitter as @dpistulka with inspiration and sharing thoughts. Find out more about Damon when he's not working. @damonpistulka on Instagram, or Damon Pistulka on Facebook. More information on building businesses you can sell or succeed and the Exit Your Way method on our website Email us for more information info@exityourway.com
Mark Koziel, CPA, CGMA, the new president and CEO of the American Institute of CPAs, recently sat down with Aiysha (AJ) Johnson, MA, IOM, CEO and executive director of the NJCPA, to discuss numerous issues impacting the accounting profession. Topics discussed:Expanding the pathway to CPAMobility concernsAdditional efforts to attract more people to the professionOne Big Beautiful Bill (HR1)Other pending legislation impacting the professionThe future of the PCAOBImplementation of new quality management standardsMark's priorities for the coming year Resources:CPA Pipeline Knowledge HubNASBA Licensure Pathway TrackerOne Big Beautiful Bill Knowledge HubQuality Management Standards Knowledge Hub
The path to influence in accounting starts with finding your voice—and sharing it on stage. Accounting ARCWith Liz Mason and Donny Shimamoto Center for Accounting TransformationForget the clichés of accountants buried in spreadsheets. Today's most innovative CPAs are more likely to be found keynoting tech conferences, moderating panels on firm transformation, or networking at rooftop receptions in Toronto, Tokyo, or Denver.In this episode of Accounting ARC, hosts Donny Shimamoto, CPA.CITP, CGMA, and Liz Mason, CPA, peel back the curtain on how speaking and travel are helping redefine the accounting profession. MORE Accounting ARC: Students Challenge Accounting's Traditional Career Path | True Grit: Recognizing Struggles That Shape Our Successes | More Admins, Fewer Students, No Plan | What Career Advice Gets Wrong for Gen Z - And How to Fix It |Your Identity is Not a Liability | What Happens in Vegas… Gets Reported on a Tax Return | Burnout, Be Gone: Accounting Needs a Boundary Breakthrough | The Ultimate Business Hack You're Probably Ignoring | Resilience, Real Talk, and the Road to Mental Wellness | Blockchain Could Still Reshape Accounting | What Gen Z Wants from Business | Firm Differentiation Depends Upon Client Service “I used to think the only reason CPAs traveled was for audits,” says Shimamoto, founder and managing director of IntrapriseTechKnowlogies LLC and founder and inspiration architect for the Center for Accounting Transformation. “Now, speaking has taken me to 35 states and across the globe.”
“It feels like we were out at sea. We got washed overboard by a big wave and we're floating around in life vests, and wave after wave of transformation is washing over us.” Those were the words of a corporate finance leader a few years back to Tom Hood, CPA/CITP, CGMA, executive vice president–Business Growth & Engagement for the Association of International Certified Professional Accountants. The feeling of being knocked back by seemingly nonstop changes in the business environment is a common one — so common that it's a recurring theme for a group of finance leaders Hood formed about five years ago. In this episode, Hood explains more about the “learn to surf” mantra and the top challenges facing finance leaders today. In a December JofA podcast appearance, he summarized the fourth Future of Finance Summit. What you'll learn from this episode: · The best way to handle the “intense” waves of transformation. · How a philosopher's words have helped Hood and colleagues work with hundreds of corporate finance teams on transformation. · Some of Hood's favorite summer leisure activities. · The top challenges facing finance leaders. · His advice for creating more engaging LinkedIn posts. · A shout-out to a retiring colleague.
Want a quick estimate of how much your business is worth? With our free valuation calculator, answer a few questions about your business, and you'll get an immediate estimate of the value of your business. You might be surprised by how much you can get for it: https://flippa.com/exit -- In this episode of The Exit: Linda Hamilton, a Certified Exit Planning Advisor and longtime CPA, shares practical strategies for business owners preparing for a future exit, emphasizing the importance of readiness, clean financials, and documented systems. Key Takeaways: Exit Planning is About Optionality, Not Just Selling Many business owners avoid thinking about exits too early, but Linda argues that preparing early builds resilience and optionality, not just a path to sell. The Cost of Not Preparing Citing a 30% valuation gap between male and female founders, Linda underscores how lack of preparation—especially around clean books, contracts, and succession—can significantly impact sale outcomes. Readiness vs. Attractiveness Linda encourages using assessments to evaluate both how attractive your business is to a buyer and how ready you are to exit. She shares a story of a founder nearly derailing a deal by not securing key employee agreements. Key Indicators of Exit-Readiness - Critical elements include: Clean, audited financials Signed client/vendor contracts Repeatable and documented systems Cash flow visibility and control over AR/AP Transferability & Systemology As a certified systemologist, Linda highlights the importance of mapping your customer journey and operational systems to ensure the business can run without you—critical for buyer confidence and deal value. Building a Support Team Successful exits rely on coordinated advisors: CPAs, attorneys, brokers, and wealth advisors. A SIPA-certified exit planner often acts as the “quarterback” to align everyone's efforts with the owner's goals. Timing & Purpose Timing an exit is personal. Many owners regret selling too soon because they lack a post-exit purpose. Linda encourages planning for life after the sale as part of the overall exit strategy. Empowering Female Founders Linda advocates for financial fluency and readiness assessments to help women negotiate from a position of strength. Confidence comes from awareness—knowing your numbers, your risks, and your value. Final Advice: Linda wishes she had done her own business readiness assessments earlier in her career, highlighting how early preparation can influence smarter long-term decisions. -- Linda Hamilton is a CPA and CEPA, (Certified Exit Planning Advisor) who is passionate about helping women business owners achieve financial fluency to grow, profit & scale. Linda founded Grow Profit Scale™, a coaching and mastermind program designed to empower women entrepreneurs with financial fluency, profit amplification, and scalable business strategies. In addition to Grow Profit Scale, Linda is also the founder of Linda A. Hamilton CPA LLC, where Linda and her team provide accounting, tax, and strategic financial planning services. With over 35 years as a CPA, CGMA, CEPA, and SYSTEMologist®, she has helped countless business owners develop strong financial systems, improve profitability, and plan for successful exits. Linda on LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/lindahamiltoncpa/ Websites: https://www.growprofitscale.com/ - https://www.lahcpas.com/ -- The Exit—Presented By Flippa: A 30-minute podcast featuring expert entrepreneurs who have been there and done it. The Exit talks to operators who have bought and sold a business. You'll learn how they did it, why they did it, and get exposure to the world of exits, a world occupied by a small few, but accessible to many. To listen to the podcast or get daily listing updates, click on flippa.com/the-exit-podcast/
The ARC team spills their messiest moments and why grit—not perfection—matters most. Accounting ARCWith Byron Patrick, Liz Mason, and Donny ShimamotoCenter for Accounting TransformationIn the latest episode of Accounting ARC, hosts Donny Shimamoto, CPA.CITP, CGMA; Liz Mason, CPA; and Byron Patrick, CPA.CITP, CGMA, lay down their professional armor to explore one central theme: grit—what it means, when it matters, and how it shows up in real life. MORE Accounting ARC: More Admins, Fewer Students, No Plan | What Career Advice Gets Wrong for Gen Z - And How to Fix It |Your Identity is Not a Liability | What Happens in Vegas… Gets Reported on a Tax Return | Burnout, Be Gone: Accounting Needs a Boundary Breakthrough | The Ultimate Business Hack You're Probably Ignoring | Resilience, Real Talk, and the Road to Mental Wellness | Blockchain Could Still Reshape Accounting | What Gen Z Wants from Business | Firm Differentiation Depends Upon Client Service |“This episode was about being honest,” says Patrick, CEO of VERIFYiQ and co-founder of TB Academy. “There are moments in everyone's career where it all feels like too much.”
Hosts call out the fiscal dysfunction behind America's school meltdown.Accounting ARCWith Byron Patrick, and Donny ShimamotoWhen CNBC published a video examining why U.S. public schools are facing severe budget shortfalls, it sparked a passionate accounting conversation. On the Accounting ARC podcast, co-hosts Donny Shimamoto, CPA.CITP, CGMA, and Byron Patrick, CPA.CITP, CGMA, offer a reaction episode that reframes the crisis through the lens of financial strategy—and accountability. MORE Accounting ARC: What Career Advice Gets Wrong for Gen Z - And How to Fix It |Your Identity is Not a Liability | What Happens in Vegas… Gets Reported on a Tax Return | Burnout, Be Gone: Accounting Needs a Boundary Breakthrough | The Ultimate Business Hack You're Probably Ignoring | Resilience, Real Talk, and the Road to Mental Wellness | Blockchain Could Still Reshape Accounting | What Gen Z Wants from Business | Firm Differentiation Depends Upon Client Service |Both CPAs were struck by one glaring omission in the original reporting: the absence of accounting professionals in decision-making roles. “Where's the CFO?” asks Shimamoto, founder and managing director of IntrapriseTechKnowlogies, and founder and inspiration architect of the Center for Accounting Transformation. “Who looked at the time limits on that COVID-era grant money and said, ‘Hey, this isn't going to last'?”Patrick, CEO of VERIFYiQ, and co-founder and educator at TB Academy, echoes that frustration: “It's like budgeting on hopes and dreams instead of facts and forecasts.”
In this joint episode with the Personal Financial Planning (PFP) Section podcast, host Cary Sinnett, Senior Manager, Personal Financial Planning — AICPA & CIMA, further discusses the latest tax legislation with guests Mark Gallegos, CPA, MST, Partner — Porte Brown and Robert Keebler, CPA/PFS, MST, AEP (Distinguished), CGMA. Hear insights on the recently passed tax legislation, implications for clients and important considerations for tax professionals now that the bill has been passed signed into law on July 4, 2025. What you'll learn from this episode: Discussion of what the permanent TCJA tax brackets and QBI deduction mean for tax planning Details on the new income exclusions for tips and overtime Topics important to discuss with clients, including Roth conversions, entity structure decisions, as well as estate and gifting strategies AICPA resources 2025 Reconciliation Charts: Key Tax Provisions and PFP Considerations — Tax and PFP downloadable charts provide clear, side-by-side comparisons of current tax law, the original H.R. 1 provisions and the Senate's reconciliation version — highlighting where they align or diverge — and outline the final legislation Planning after tax changes — CPAs need to not only brace for tax law changes but also be proactive in planning for them. Find more resources here to learn more about the latest updates. 2025 Tax Reform Advocacy — The AICPA tax advocacy library on current tax reform developments that Congress is considering in 2025. FAQs on Tax Reform via Budget Reconciliation — Tax reform FAQs that explain the budget reconciliation process, legislative timing, key issues and practical tips for CPAs. Tax Section news and member FAQ — Get the latest tax news, a digest of key tax topics and commonly asked questions about resources and benefits.
They're not leaving the firm. They're leaving you. Gear Up for GrowthWith Jean CaragherFor CPA TrendlinesWhat's driving talent out of accounting firms? According to Kimberly Ellison-Taylor, CPA, CGMA, CITP, CISA, everything from outdated leadership to untold success stories is pushing promising professionals away. In this episode of Gear Up for Growth, powered by CPA Trendlines, host Jean Caragher sits down with the powerhouse behind KET Solutions to explore how the profession can—and must—change to attract and retain the next generation. Gear Up for Growth spotlights the best strategies for smart and efficient growth in today's competitive landscape. More Gear Up for Growth | More Capstone Conversations with Jean Caragher | More Jean Caragher here | Get her best-selling handbook, The 90-Day Marketing Plan for CPA Firms, here | More CPA Trendlines videos and podcasts here Ellison-Taylor, former chair of both the AICPA and the Maryland Association of CPAs, started her journey into accounting as a third grader inspired by a career-day presentation. That spark led to decades of leadership—and now, a mission to transform the narrative around what it means to be a CPA.Originally published Jan. 10, 2025.
Discover the link between triggers, burnout, and the power of saying “not right now.”Accounting ARCWith Liz Mason, Byron Patrick, and Donny ShimamotoCenter for Accounting TransformationLet's be honest: the accounting profession isn't exactly known for work-life balance. Long hours, tax season sprints, and "just one more thing" emails can leave even the most seasoned pros teetering on the edge of burnout.In this episode of ARC, hosts Liz Mason, CPA; Donny Shimamoto, CPA.CITP, CGMA; and Byron Patrick, CPA.CITP, CGMA, confront that edge—and explain why healthy boundaries are more than just trendy jargon. They're essential tools for staying sane, productive, and professionally respected. MORE Accounting ARC: Your Identity is Not a Liability | What Happens in Vegas… Gets Reported on a Tax Return | Burnout, Be Gone: Accounting Needs a Boundary Breakthrough | The Ultimate Business Hack You're Probably Ignoring | Resilience, Real Talk, and the Road to Mental Wellness | Blockchain Could Still Reshape Accounting | What Gen Z Wants from Business | Firm Differentiation Depends Upon Client Service “Burnout is basically professional depression,” says Mason, CEO of High Rock Accounting. “If you find yourself triggered, angry, or exhausted at work all the time, there's a good chance your boundaries are being violated—and you might not even realize it.”From protecting their calendars to setting clear expectations with clients and teams, the ARC crew shares how they've each developed personal systems that work for them, not just their inboxes. And while TikTok may glamorize the “just say no” mentality, the hosts caution against confusing boundaries with avoidance.Originally published May 29, 2025.
Learn why today's students want more than titles—and how employers should respond.Accounting ARCWith Arpan Grewal and Harshita MultaniCenter for Accounting TransformationAccounting ARC: Student-Led Conversations isn't just another student podcast—it's a cross-generational wake-up call.In this episode, business students Arpan Grewal and Harshita Multani, both interns for the Center for Accounting Transformation, lead a powerful dialogue with Texlin Usher Quinney, CPA, PMP, Ph.D., and Byron Patrick, CPA.CITP, CGMA. Their topic? The flawed premise of “finding your passion.” MORE Accounting ARC: Your Identity Is Not a Liability | What Happens in Vegas… Gets Reported on a Tax Return | Burnout, Be Gone: Accounting Needs a Boundary Breakthrough | The Ultimate Business Hack You're Probably Ignoring | Resilience, Real Talk, and the Road to Mental Wellness | Blockchain Could Still Reshape Accounting | What Gen Z Wants from Business | Firm Differentiation Depends Upon Client Service |“My daughter thought her first job out of college had to be her passion,” explains Patrick, CEO of VERIFYiQ and co-founder and educator for TB Academy. “But passion isn't a one-time decision—it's an evolution.”That reframing hits home for Grewal and Multani, who admit to once dreaming of wildly different careers. “We grew up with Barbie being everything—doctor, astronaut, president,” says Grewal. “So why should we pick just one thing?”
In this joint episode with the Personal Financial Planning (PFP) podcast, host April Walker, CPA, CGMA, Senior Manager — AICPA & CIMA, discusses the latest tax legislation with guests Mark Gallegos, CPA, MST, Partner — Porte Brown and Robert Keebler, CPA/PFS, MST, AEP (Distinguished), CGMA. Hear insights on current tax legislation, implications for clients and important considerations for tax professionals. What you'll learn from this episode: The next steps for this pending legislation Key points about state and local tax (SALT) cap, pass-through entity tax (PTET) and Sec. 199A, Qualified Business Income (QBI) provisions Legislative take on Sec. 174 R&E expenditures Other important conversations that may be necessary in the coming months AICPA resources 2025 Reconciliation Charts: Key Tax Provisions and PFP Considerations — Tax and PFP downloadable charts provide clear, side-by-side comparisons of current tax law, the proposed changes in H.R. 1 and how the Senate Finance Committee's proposal aligns or diverges with H.R. 1. Planning for tax changes and tax reform — CPAs need to not only brace for tax law changes such as the Tax Cuts and Jobs Act (TCJA) and expiring provisions but also be proactive in planning for them. Find more resources here to learn more about the latest updates. AICPA submits recommendations to Senate Finance Committee on reconciliation bill — The AICPA submitted a letter to Senate Finance Committee leadership outlining its endorsements, concerns about the PTET SALT deduction and a request for clarification and two additional recommendations. 2025 Tax Reform Advocacy — The AICPA tax advocacy library on current tax reform developments that Congress is considering in 2025, including the expiring provisions of the TCJA. FAQs on Tax Reform via Budget Reconciliation — Tax reform FAQs that explain the budget reconciliation process, legislative timing, key issues and practical tips for CPAs. Tax Section news and member FAQ — Get the latest tax news, a digest of key tax topics and commonly asked questions about resources and benefits.
The Institute of Internal Auditors Presents: All Things Internal Audit In this episode, Mike Levy sits down with Rania Bejjani to discuss what it takes for internal auditors to become strategic business partners. From mindset shifts and organizational alignment to building trust and influencing change, Bejjani shares insights grounded in global experience. The conversation covers the evolving role of internal auditors, essential competencies, and how to earn a seat at the table by becoming a catalyst for strategic value. HOST:Mike Levy, CIA, CRMA, CISACEO and managing principal, Cherry Hill Advisory GUEST:Rania Bejjani, CIA, CGMA, Founder and CEO, RB Advisory & Consultancy Former CAE at VEON, FirstGroup and Colt Technology Services Key Points Introduction [00:00–00:00:37] Defining Strategic Business Partnering [00:00:37–00:03:15] Trusted Advisor vs. Strategic Partner [00:03:15–00:06:05] Earning a Seat at the Table [00:06:05–00:07:45] Shifting from Problem Identifier to Problem Solver [00:07:45–00:09:40] Transformation Starts with Self-Assessment [00:09:40–00:12:21] Hiring for Mindset Over Skillset [00:12:21–00:15:33] Why Emotional Intelligence Matters [00:15:33–00:17:56] The Multifaceted Auditor [00:17:56–00:20:43] Transformation in Action [00:20:43–00:25:34] Overcoming Resistance and Changing Perceptions [00:25:34–00:29:28] Closing Thoughts [00:29:28–00:29:59] The IIA Related Content Interested in this topic? Visit the links below for more resources: 2025 International Conference Global Internal Audit Standards Global Best Practice: Small Audit Functions, Large Audit Abilities Visit The IIA's website or YouTube channel for related topics and more. Follow All Things Internal Audit: Apple PodcastsSpotify LibsynDeezer
Last week we discussed signs and symptoms of dysregulated blood sugar levels. Now, if you were concerned, I recommended speaking to your GP, however, often if you're not pre-diabetic or diabetic, they're not very concerned about your levels, and won't really spend the time to get them under control.So, today, I wanted to share how to take your own glucose readings, so you can see what your blood sugar levels are doing over the day, and so you can tweak your meals to better suit your blood sugar needs.Read more.Show notesReference ranges info and toolshttps://www.diabetes.co.uk/blood-sugar-converter.html#google_vignettehttps://www.levels.com/blog/what-should-my-glucose-levels-be-ultimate-guidehttps://www.bhf.org.uk/informationsupport/heart-matters-magazine/medical/tests/blood-sugarHelpful resourceshttps://endometriosis.net/living/diet-sugarhttps://endometriosis.net/living/how-to-balance-your-blood-sugar-levels-to-reduce-endo-symptomshttps://www.theendobellycoach.com/podcast/endo-blood-sugar-gargi-parikhhttps://www.theendobellycoach.com/podcast/glycemic-index-load-endohttps://www.theendobellycoach.com/podcast/endo-and-pms-the-key-to-reducing-mood-swings-anxiety-and-low-moods-in-your-luteal-phasehttps://www.theendobellycoach.com/podcast/non-food-blood-sugar-managementhttps://www.theendobellycoach.com/podcast/reduce-fatigue-endometriosis-symptoms-and-oestrogen-dominancehttps://www.theendobellycoach.com/podcast/endo-carbs-blood-sugarEndo and blood sugar researchhttps://pmc.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/articles/PMC10967113/https://eurjmedres.biomedcentral.com/articles/10.1186/s40001-023-01280-7https://pmc.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/articles/PMC8609862/https://www.nature.com/articles/s41598-023-35236-yhttps://www.sciencedirect.com/science/article/abs/pii/S0378512223004115https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/37673102/If using a CGMA few things to be aware of –Your blood sugar may see erratic or very high within the first 24 hours of wearing a CGM, this is normally an adjustment period so don't worry about that.Blood sugar levels tend to spike with exercise, stress and hot showers/baths. Don't worry about exercise or showers, your body will regulate itself, but you may want to work on your stress if it's influencing your blood sugar levels a lot!Your blood sugar will likely be more erratic in your luteal phase, so you may need to put some extra support in place.Your blood sugar levels are likely to be higher after a bad night's sleep, so you'll need to put more support in.Sleeping on the arm with yoru CGM can create inaccurate results, so if anything seems unsual in the night, try sleeping on another side. However, be aware we can have dips and peaks at night too.Need more help or want to learn how to work with me?Free resources:This podcast! Endometriosis Net ColumnEndometriosis News ColumnNewsletterInstagramWays to work with me:This EndoLife, It Starts with Breakfast digital cookbookMasterclasses in endo nutrition, surgery prep and recovery and pain reliefLive and Thrive with Endo: The Foundations DIY courseOne to one coaching info and applicationThis episode is sponsored by BeYou Cramp Relief Patches. Soothe period cramps the natural way with these 100% natural and discreet menthol and eucalyptus oil stick on patches. Click here to find out more and to shop: https://beyouonline.co.uk/pages/how-it-worksProduced by Chris Robson
Sentiment about the U.S. economy and CPA decision-makers' organizations continues to decline in 2025. Second-quarter results released Thursday by the AICPA and CIMA show a rising percentage of pessimists and more concern about the affects of tariffs. To analyze the results further, the JofA podcast welcomed back Ken Witt, CPA, CGMA, associate director–Management Accounting Research & Development. In last quarter's Economic Outlook Survey, half of respondents were optimistic about their company's outlook for the next year. This quarter, that percentage dropped to 37% — and it's not the only area in which there is a decline. Related resources: n JofA article on how finance leaders are countering tariff volatility. n The AICPA and CIMA's tariff resource center. n The previous quarter's podcast discussion with Witt. What you'll learn from this episode: · The declines in domestic economic sentiment and own-company optimism. · Where optimism about the global economy stands. · Changes in the list of top challenges facing CPA decision-makers. · The “big topic” in this quarter's survey. · An assessment of the impact of tariffs on respondents' business planning. · A summary of respondents' 12-month projections for revenue, profits, and spending.
This episode features Oliver Rowe, FM's editor-in-chief, detailing the contents of the magazine's June digital edition. The discussion begins with a focus on the CGMA Professional Qualification's May update. Rowe also details the key points of an article about accountability and discusses the magazine's regular columns and features. The episode closes with an explanation of how members can access the June digital edition as well as the issue library. Previous 2025 episodes about the digital editions: n February n April What you'll learn from this episode: · Highlights of an article about the CGMA Professional Qualification update. · Advice in an article about dealing with the growing threat of deepfake fraud. · A summary of the president's column by Simon Bittlestone, FCMA, CGMA. · Details of one article's focus on the social-return-on-investment framework. · An explanation of vertical and horizontal accountability and their relationship to the finance function.
Jennifer Reilly, CPA, CGMA, values listening. She enjoys the collaboration with fellow finance leaders as part of the Future of Finance Leadership Advisory Group, and she has made a habit of emphasizing listening in guiding teams from around the world. Reilly, scheduled to be part of two sessions at AICPA & CIMA ENGAGE 25, explains the importance of listening, developing through broad and niche roles, and more in this Journal of Accountancy podcast episode. What you'll learn from this episode: · The value of collaboration with finance peers. · How finance's expanded role changes the way finance professionals are evaluated. · A summary of Reilly's “broad” and “niche” roles. · Strategies for better engagement with a globally dispersed team. · The benefits of a wide-ranging listening tour for Reilly in her current role. · One pillar of corporate culture that stood out to her from a Future of Finance Summit presentation.
In this episode, Joe sits down with Amy Vetter, CPA, CGMA, RYT-500, CSP. Amy is the CEO of the B³ Method Institute and the keynote speaker for the MICPA's 2025 Elevate Conference. They discuss how firms can build a best-in-class tech stack by thoughtfully selecting, standardizing and training on the right tools.
Email comments or guest ideas (to reply, include your email address)Banle Group's Venus Zhao discusses how CBL International is revolutionising the maritime industry through sustainable biofuels. Its B24 biofuel blend reduces GHG emissions by up to 25% compared to conventional marine fuels. With operations across 60+ global ports and recent ISCC certifications, CBL is positioned to capitalise on the projected 50% growth in the green marine fuel market despite current supply constraints. Venus outlines how tightening IMO regulations are accelerating industry-wide sustainability adoption and shares CBL's vision to lead the maritime sector's transition towards net-zero emissions through diversification into biofuels, LNG and methanol.REF: CBL IR page.ABOUT VENUS: Venus Hui Zhao is the Director of Investor Relations and Public Relations of Banle Group. She is primarily responsible for investor relations, public relations and capital markets of the Group. She has more than 15 years of experience in investor relations, public relations, capital markets and ESG. Prior to joining the Group, she was the General Manager of Hong Kong Office, General Manager of Capital Markets & Corporate Communications at a Hong Kong listed company and assumed different management roles in Hong Kong and US listed companies and Fortune 500 MNCs. Ms Zhao obtained her master degree of Strategic Public Relations in Communications and Journalism School in University of Southern California, and her MBA degree concentrated in Finance in The Hong Kong University of Science & Technology. She is a certified FCMA, CGMA holder from Chartered Institute of Management Accountants (CIMA), associate member of CPA Australia (ASA) , Certified ESG Analyst (CESGA®) from The European Federation of Financial Analysts Societies (EFFAS), Executive Committee member and fellow of Hong Kong Investor Relations Association (HKIRA), and full member of HKIoD (The Hong Kong Institute of Directors).FEEDBACK: Email Host | HOST, PRODUCTION, ARTWORK: Joseph Jacobelli | MUSIC: Ep0-29 The Open Goldberg Variations, Kimiko Ishizaka Ep30-50 Orchestra Gli Armonici – Tomaso Albinoni, Op.07, Concerto 04 per archi in Sol - III. Allegro. | Ep51 – Brandenburg Concerto No. 4 in G, Movement I (Allegro), BWV 1049 Kevin MacLeod. Licensed under Creative Commons: By Attribution 4.0 License
Bayport Financial Services' CEO Alfred Ramosedi, FCMA, CGMA, explains why having employees return to the office is not enough to improve productivity and why leaders should transparently explain expectations of workers. Ramosedi details the benefits for organisations that are intentional about bringing employees back to the office, where morale could be affected by return-to-office policies, and what three things senior leaders can do to drive productivity across all work models and environments. What you'll learn from this episode: § Four reasons companies are asking employees to return to the office. § Why leaders need to understand and communicate how they intend to measure productivity. § Three possible advantages for companies' bringing employees back to the office. § Morale concerns that could arise from return-to-office policies. § The importance of rewarding employees with flexible working arrangements. § Three things leaders can consider to drive productivity across all work models.
Welcome to EO Radio Show - Your Nonprofit Legal Resource. I'm Cynthia Rowland, and today I'm joined by David Sacarelos, a principal at Baker Tilly. We do a deep dive into the penalties under the Internal Revenue Code sections that apply to insider transactions involving private foundations. Using a recently issued IRS Chief Counsel memorandum, we look at the circumstances of loans by a private foundation that led to significant penalties for indirect self-dealing and jeopardizing investments. Show Notes: Cynthia Rowland, Podcast Host, Partner, Farella Braun + Martel David M. Sacarelos, CPA, CGMA, Principal, Baker Tilly US, LLP Chief Counsel Memo 202504014 IRS Form 4720 EO Radio Show #117: REFRESH Nonprofit Basics: Insider Transactions and Nonprofits Farella YouTube podcast channel Clarifying Notes: (17:06) The $20,000 maximum first-tier tax imposed on foundation managers is not indexed for inflation. (20:59) Per Rev. Ruling 78-76, a private foundation trustee was determined to have participated in a self-dealing transaction both as a disqualified person and as a foundation manager. Consequently, he was found liable for both the tax imposed on self-dealing under IRC Sec. 4941(a) and the tax imposed on foundation managers under IRC Sec. 4941(a)(2). Depending on the facts and circumstances, it is possible to be taxed both as foundation manager and as a disqualified person. If you have suggestions for topics you would like us to discuss, please email us at eoradioshow@fbm.com. Additional episodes can be found at EORadioShowByFarella.com. DISCLAIMER: This podcast is for general informational purposes only. It is not intended to be, nor should it be interpreted as, legal advice or opinion.
Could you spend years earning your CPA license only to be told you can't use it? In this episode, Mark Koziel, president of the AICPA, joins Blake and David to discuss the shocking trend of firms prohibiting CPAs from identifying themselves as such in emails, on business cards, and even on LinkedIn. Blake and David also explore the economic uncertainty created by Trump's tariff policies, with major corporations cutting costs and delaying investments. Plus, learn about Republican plans to eliminate the PCAOB, the wave of states creating alternative CPA pathways, and why Ramp could become the federal government's spend management platform.SponsorsOnPay - http://accountingpodcast.promo/onpayBluevine - http://accountingpodcast.promo/bluevine (Bluevine is a financial technology company, not a bank. Banking Services provided by Coastal Community Bank, Member FDIC.) Cloud Accountant Staffing - http://accountingpodcast.promo/casRoboDebit - http://accountingpodcast.promo/robodebitChapters(01:13) - Top News Stories of the Week (04:18) - Ramp's Ambitious Federal Government Plans (14:04) - Republican Plans to Scrap PCAOB (17:56) - Impact of Tariffs on Major Corporations (28:45) - IRS Leadership Changes (32:31) - Private Equity's New Accounting Firm (36:03) - CPA Pipeline Updates: Tennessee, Texas, and Indiana (37:46) - Republicans and the Millionaire Tax Idea (40:20) - Interview with Mark Koziel: CPA Title Controversy (01:06:36) - Fun Facts: The Cost of Replacing the Pope (01:08:43) - Earn Free CPE on Earmark Show NotesTrump Team Eyes Politically Connected Startup to Overhaul $700 Billion Government Payments Programhttps://www.propublica.org/article/trump-peter-thiel-ramp-gsa-smartpay-expense-payment-system Big 4 Alum Start Their Own Thing Hoping Clients Want Something Different and Conflict-Freehttps://www.goingconcern.com/big-4-alum-start-their-own-thing-hoping-clients-want-something-different-and-conflict-free/ Texas passes CPA law as push to lower licensure barrier gains steamhttps://www.cfodive.com/news/broadening-cpa-licensure-paths-marching-beyond-150-hour-rule-accounting-talent-shortage/745282/ Draft bill would eliminate PCAOBhttps://www.accountingtoday.com/news/draft-bill-would-eliminate-pcaob-empower-sec Why The IRS Went Through 4 Acting Commissioners In 3 Monthshttps://abovethelaw.com/2025/04/why-the-irs-went-through-4-acting-commissioners-in-3-months/ 'Hard no': Millionaire tax hike proposal has House Republicans dividedhttps://www.foxnews.com/politics/hard-no-millionaire-tax-hike-proposal-has-house-republicans-divided Tariffs and global trade: The economic impact on businesshttps://www.mckinsey.com/capabilities/geopolitics/our-insights/tariffs-and-global-trade-the-economic-impact-on-business Firms with AI report higher per-employee revenuehttps://www.accountingtoday.com/news/firms-with-ai-report-higher-per-employee-revenue-vs-others The mysterious donor who paid for Pope Francis' funeralhttps://en.ara.cat/misc/the-mysterious-donor-who-paid-for-pope-francis-funeral_1_5357026.htmlNeed 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 Cloud 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/OvercastClassifiedsREFRAME 2025 - http://accountingpodcast.promo/reframe2025Want 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 o...
The latest Journal of Accountancy podcast episode is a wide-ranging conversation with two likely familiar names to listeners. April Walker, CPA, CGMA, AICPA & CIMA lead manager–Tax Practice & Ethics, and author John Garrett joined the show to discuss employee engagement in the hybrid and remote era, the importance of sharing and asking about hobbies, and why they are less likely these days to carry business cards to events such as conferences. Walker is the host of the Tax Section Odyssey podcast and the Reimaging Your Tax Practice webcast series. She has also been a host of tax-focused episodes on the JofA podcast. Garrett is a speaker, corporate consultant, and former Big Four accountant-turned-stand-up comedian. In previous episodes of the podcast, he has shared presentation tips and explained why our passions are essential to work success. What you'll learn from this episode: · Reviewing the concept of “bringing your whole self to work.” · Why, in Garrett's mind, employers should “value the worker as much as you value the work.” · Should you start a virtual team meeting with an icebreaker question? Why Walker says “yes.” · The speakers' opinions on business cards. · Words that could create “stronger and deeper connections” on a business card. · Why we should “shine a light” on outside interests.
This episode features Oliver Rowe, FM's editor-in-chief, detailing the contents of the magazine's April digital edition. The discussion highlights articles on artificial intelligence (AI), including one that advises how finance can steer AI adoption. Rowe also details the key points of an article on understanding and avoiding burnout and discusses April's regular columns. Also included: an explanation of how members can access the April digital edition as well as the issue library. What you'll learn from this episode: · The edition's focus on AI and explanation of three AI-related articles. · Advice from regular FM writer Rhymer Rigby on avoiding burnout. · A practical Excel article: How to create a chart template in Excel. · The other articles in the edition, including regular columns, a Q&A with Association CEO Mark Koziel, CPA, CGMA, and Institute News. · Ways to access the April edition.
In this episode, Dr. Jackie Meyer interviews Amy Vetter, a CPA, yogi, and author, discussing her unique journey in the accounting profession and the importance of finding balance in work and life. They explore the B3 method, practical steps for achieving work-life harmony, the significance of technology in accounting, and the value of advisory services. The conversation also touches on coaching programs and the need for effective communication in professional settings, culminating in a rapid-fire round of fun questions.
When it comes to accounting for construction businesses, using a generic accounting program can result in more confusion than clarity. In this episode of the Cultivating Business Growth Podcast, host Katina Peters, CPA, CGMA, and Virtual CFO, sits down with John Meibers, Vice President and General Manager of Deltek ComputerEase, to discuss the real-world advantages of construction accounting programs built specifically for the industry. John brings over 30 years of experience in the construction software industry and shares his expert perspective on what contractors are missing out on when they don't use purpose-built software. From managing real-time job costing to navigating complex payroll and change orders, this episode is a must-listen for contractors, CFOs, and accounting professionals who work with construction clients.
Episode 252FACULTY: Ron BakerCLASS: #TheGuideScotty's back in the Office with our Principal, Ron Baker, and he has a copy of "The Creative Act: A Way of Being" by Rick Rubin. In this book report, they cover a wide range of topics, including creativity in art and accounting, the quest for efficiency, the role of humor in art, and the importance of paying attention to your surroundings. The conversation also touches on the challenges of being an entrepreneur and artist, the subjective nature of value, and the evolution of an artist's work. This engaging and thought-provoking discussion is a must-listen for anyone interested in creativity, art, or entrepreneurship. Tune in to hear more from Scott and Ron on "The Creative Act" and its many insights.All the Shoutouts:Greg Kyte, CPA, Rick Rubin, Broken Record, Jason Ackerman, CPA, CFP®, CGMA, Times up, Jasper, Conversations with Tyler, South Park, Arthur Schopenhauer, John Wooten, James Clear, Simon Sinek, Tim Williams, Nikole Mackenzie, David C. Baker, Caddyshack, Dave Chappelle, Terrell A Turner, CPA, Kenji Kuramoto, James Ashford, Michelle Weinstein, Tim Ferriss, Leonard Cohen, Bob Dylan, John Lennon, Eminem, Paul McCartney, Beatles, Elvis Presley, Sage, Thriveal, The Crux, Momentum Accounting, Inc, Mortimer J. Adler
For several reasons, including persistent inflation and concern about the effects of tariffs, CPA decision-makers in business and industry are less optimistic this quarter about the U.S. and global economy and their own businesses. That's according to the Economic Outlook Survey released on Thursday. On Friday, Ken Witt, CPA, CGMA, AICPA & CIMA associate director–Management Accounting Research and Development, joined the Journal of Accountancy podcast to analyze the survey's latest results. In the fourth quarter of 2024, Witt said, the likelihood of less regulation was one reason for an increase in sentiment. But much of that November enthusiasm has been tempered. What you'll learn from this episode: · The top challenge for CPA decision-makers' businesses (it's not a surprise). · The difference in expansion plans based on company size. · The percentage of respondents who expect tariffs to have a negative effect on their organizations. · What finance executives project related to hiring in the coming 12 months.
This episode has three chapters. Each one answers a key question, and, bottom line, it all adds up to action steps directly and indirectly for many, including plan sponsors probably, community leaders, and also hospital boards of directors. Here's the three chapters in sum. For a full transcript of this episode, click here. If you enjoy this podcast, be sure to subscribe to the free weekly newsletter to be a member of the Relentless Tribe. Chapter 1: Are commercial insurance premiums rising faster than the inflation rate? And if so, is the employee portion of those premiums also rising, meaning a double whammy for employees' paychecks (ie, premium costs are getting bigger and bigger in an absolute sense, and also employees' relative share of those bigger costs is also bigger)? Spoiler alert: yes and yes. Chapter 2: What is the biggest reason for these premium increases? Like, if you look at the drivers of cost that underpin those rising premiums, what costs a lot that is making these premiums cost a lot? Spoiler alert: It's hospitals and the price increases at hospitals. And just in case anyone is wondering, this isn't, “Oh, chargemasters went up” or some kind of other tangential factor. We're talking about the revenue that hospitals are taking on services delivered has gone up and gone up way higher than the inflation rate. In fact, hospital costs have gone up over double the amount that premiums have gone up. Wait, what? That's a fact that Dr. Vivian Ho said today that threw my brain for a loop: Hospital costs have gone up over double the amount that premiums have gone up. Chapter 3: Is the reason that hospital prices have rocketed up as they have because the underlying costs these hospitals face are also going up way higher than the inflation rate? Like, for example, are nurses' salaries skyrocketing and doctors are getting paid a lot more than the inflation rate? Stuff like this. Too many eggs in the cafeteria. Way more charity care. Bottom line, is an increase in underlying costs the reason for rising hospital prices? Spoiler alert: no. No to all of the above. And I get into this deeply with Dr. Vivian Ho today. But before I do, I do just want to state with three underlines not all hospitals are the same. But yeah, you have many major consolidated hospitals crying about their, you know, “razor-thin margins” who are, it turns out, incentivizing their C-suites to do things that ultimately wind up raising prices. I saw a PowerPoint flying around—you may have seen it, too—that was apparently presented by a nonprofit hospital at JP Morgan, and it showed this nonprofit hospital with a 15.1% EBITDA (earnings before interest, taxes, depreciation, and amortization) in 2024. Not razor thin in my book. It's a, the boards of directors are structuring C-suite incentives in ways that ultimately will raise prices. If you want to dig in a little deeper on hospital boards and what they may be up to, listen to the show with Suhas Gondi, MD, MBA (EP404). Vivian Ho, PhD, my guest today, is a professor and faculty member at Rice University and Baylor College of Medicine. Her most major role these days is working on health policy at Baker Institute at Rice University. Her work there is at the national, state, and local levels conducting objective research that informs policymakers on how to improve healthcare. Today on the show, Professor Vivian Ho mentions research with Salpy Kanimian and Derek Jenkins, PhD. Alright, so just one quick sidebar before we get into the show. There is a lot going on with hospitals right now. So, before we kick in, let me just make one really important point. A hospital's contribution to medical research, like doing cancer clinical trials, is not the same as how a hospital serves or overcharges their community or makes decisions that increase or reduce their ability to improve the health and well-being of patients and members who wind up in or about the hospital. Huge, consolidated hospital networks can be doing great things that have great value and also, at the exact same time, kind of harmful things clinically and financially that negatively impact lots of Americans and doing all of that simultaneously. This is inarguable. Also mentioned in this episode are Rice University's Baker Institute for Public Policy; Baker Institute Center for Health Policy; Suhas Gondi, MD, MBA; Salpy Kanimian; Derek Jenkins, PhD; Byron Hugley; Michael Strain; Dave Chase; Zack Cooper, PhD; Houston Business Coalition on Health (HBCH); Marilyn Bartlett, CPA, CGMA, CMA, CFM; Cora Opsahl; Claire Brockbank; Shawn Gremminger; Autumn Yongchu; Erik Davis; Ge Bai, PhD, CPA; Community Health Choice; Mark Cuban; and Ferrin Williams, PharmD, MBA. For further reading, check out this LinkedIn post. You can learn more at Rice University's Center for Health Policy (LinkedIn) and Department of Economics and by following Vivian on LinkedIn. Vivian Ho, PhD, is the James A. Baker III Institute Chair in Health Economics, a professor in the Department of Economics at Rice University, a professor in the Department of Medicine at Baylor College of Medicine, and a nonresident senior scholar in the USC Schaeffer Center for Health Policy and Economics. Ho's research examines the effects of economic incentives and regulations on the quality and costs of health care. Her research is widely published in economics, medical, and health services research journals. Ho's research has been funded by the National Institutes of Health (NIH), the Agency for Healthcare Research and Quality, the American Cancer Society, and Arnold Ventures. Ho has served on the Board of Scientific Counselors for the National Center for Health Statistics, as well as on the NIH Health Services, Outcomes, and Delivery study section. She was elected as a member of the National Academy of Medicine in 2020. Ho is also a founding board member of the American Society for Health Economists and a member of the Community Advisory Board at Blue Cross Blue Shield of Texas. Ho received her AB in economics from Harvard University, a graduate diploma in economics from The Australian National University, and a PhD in economics from Stanford University. 05:12 Are insurance premiums going up? 05:59 What is the disparity between cost of insurance and wage increases? 06:21 LinkedIn post by Byron Hugley. 06:25 Article by Michael Strain. 06:46 How much have insurance premiums gone up for employers versus employees? 09:06 Chart showing the cost to insure populations of employees and families. 10:17 What is causing hospital prices and insurance premiums to go up so exponentially? 12:53 Article by (and tribute to) Uwe Reinhardt. 13:49 EP450 with Marilyn Bartlett, CPA, CGMA, CMA, CFM. 14:01 EP452 with Cora Opsahl. 14:03 EP453 with Claire Brockbank. 14:37 EP371 with Erik Davis and Autumn Yongchu. 15:28 Are razor-thin operating margins for hospitals causing these rising hospital prices? 16:56 Collaboration with Marilyn Bartlett and the NASHP Hospital Cost Tool. 19:47 What is the explanation that hospitals give for justifying these profits? 23:16 How do these hospital cost increases actually happen? 27:06 Study by Zack Cooper, PhD. 27:35 EP404 with Suhas Gondi, MD, MBA. 27:50 Who typically makes up a hospital board, and why do these motivations incentivize hospital price increases? 30:12 EP418 with Mark Cuban and Ferrin Williams, PharmD, MBA. 33:17 Why is it vital that change start at the board level? You can learn more at Rice University's Center for Health Policy (LinkedIn) and Department of Economics and by following Vivian on LinkedIn. Vivian Ho discusses #healthinsurance #premiums and #hospitalpricing on our #healthcarepodcast. #healthcare #podcast #changemanagement #healthcareleadership #healthcaretransformation #healthcareinnovation Recent past interviews: Click a guest's name for their latest RHV episode! Chris Crawford (EP465), Al Lewis, Betsy Seals, Wendell Potter (Encore! EP384), Dr Scott Conard, Stacey Richter (INBW42), Chris Crawford (EP461), Dr Rushika Fernandopulle, Bill Sarraille, Stacey Richter (INBW41)
The AICPA & CIMA CFO Conference begins April 23 in La Quinta, Calif. The co-chairs of the conference planning committee joined the Journal of Accountancy podcast to discuss top-of-mind issues for finance leaders and to preview the agenda for the in-person event. Ted Delgado, CPA, CGMA, and Summer Redmon, CPA, finance executives themselves, shared what they learn from attending the conference each year and explained the ways that the pace of change has affected the CFO role. Also, Lisa Simpson, CPA, CGMA, AICPA & CIMA's vice president–Firm Services, joined the show to discuss International Women's Day, which this year is on Saturday. Resources: n CFO Conference registration information and agenda. n Podcast conversations in September and January with not-for-profit CFO Janice Stucke, CPA. What you'll learn from this episode: · The value of self-awareness and servant leadership for CFOs. · Redmon's explanation of a former boss referring to herself as “CFO-plus.” · Delgado's summary of a session on navigating business slowdowns. · Highlights of other topics and panel discussions at the conference. · The importance of International Women's Day to one AICPA & CIMA leader.
In this episode, Jamie Lopiccolo, CPA, CGMA, Founder and Managing Member of Capocore Professional Advisors, and Will Hill, Owner of Will Hill Consults, discuss marketing and pricing tax advisory services. They explore the importance of identifying client needs through effective listening and highlight the significance of understanding clients' pain points and gaps to move beyond traditional tax. What you'll learn from this episode: How to use effective listening techniques to identify client needs and help uncover pain points and gaps The importance of moving beyond traditional tax services to offer comprehensive advisory solutions. How to potentially classify tax advisory opportunities into different pricing buckets and the importance of adjusting pricing based on scope changes. The importance of involving team members in advisory services early on, even if they feel unprepared, as this helps them learn and grow in their roles. AICPA resources Broadridge Advisor Spotlight for Tax Section Members — Tax Section members can access sample resources from Broadridge Advisor which provides client education and communication tools on personal financial planning. 2025 Tax and Financial Planner — This digital, month-by-month planner is designed for Tax and PFP Section members and serves as a field guide to summarize key due dates, action items, client engagement ideas and financial planning tips. Keep your finger on the pulse of the dynamic and evolving tax landscape with insights from tax thought leaders in the AICPA Tax Section. The Tax Section Odyssey podcast includes a digest of tax developments, trending issues and practice management tips that you need to be aware of to elevate your professional development and your firm practices. This resource is part of the robust tax resource library available from the AICPA Tax Section. The Tax Section is your go-to home base for staying up to date on the latest tax developments and providing the edge you need for upskilling your professional development. If you're not already a member, consider joining this prestigious community of your tax peers. You'll get free CPE, access to rich technical content such as our Annual Tax Compliance Kit, a weekly member newsletter and a digital subscription to The Tax Adviser.
Guests Matthew Payze and Stewardt Cornelissen join us from South Africa. Together we discuss their experiences in studying for CGMA, and share their advice and views on studying for the qualification via the FLP pathway. The CGMA Finance Leadership Programme (FLP) is the online pathway to the prestigious Chartered Institute of Management Accountants' Professional Qualification. Find out more about the FLP at https://enroll.cgma.org/ or https://www.aicpa-cima.com/resources/landing/the-cgma-r-finance-leadership-program. CONNECT If you're on LinkedIn, feel free to connect with show host Kevin Gormley Connect with Matthew at www.linkedin.com/in/matthew-payze-347195198 or find out more about Collivery at https://collivery.net/ Connect with Stewardt at https://www.linkedin.com/in/stewardt-cornelissen-0b664ab3/ Your feedback and comments welcomed at podcast@aicpa-cima.com This is a podcast from AICPA & CIMA, together as the Association of International Certified Professional Accountants. To enjoy more conversations from our global community of accounting and finance professionals, explore our network of free shows here.
Mark Koziel, CPA, CGMA, was less than a week into his tenure as AICPA & CIMA CEO when he joined the Journal of Accountancy podcast for a two-part conversation. In part one, published Thursday, Koziel discussed wanting to hear from members about their challenges and success stories. In part two, he talks about how accountants can work with artificial intelligence tools, why he initially was interested in pursuing work with the FBI, and the value he sees in a hybrid work environment for some firms. Koziel has invited members to send email to AskMark@aicpa-cima.com and "tell me how the Association can help you, your career, and the profession." What you'll learn from this episode: · The career-related questions Koziel used to ask fellow CPA firm partners. · One aspect of Koziel's preparation to become an accountant that he would have changed. · The key things he learned as an employee of the grocery store Wegmans. · What he says to students considering a career in accounting. · More on how client advisory services have “erupted” over the years.
Mark Koziel, CPA, CGMA, was officially just a few days into his role as CEO of AICPA & CIMA when he took time to join the Journal of Accountancy podcast for a conversation that will be shared in two parts. Part one is below, and part two will be published in the coming days. Koziel — named in October to succeed the now retired Barry Melancon, CPA, CGMA — discussed the importance of hearing about the successes and challenges facing members, how he hopes to create communities, and more in this interview. Koziel also invited members to send email to AskMark@aicpa-cima.com and “tell me how the Association can help you, your career, and the profession.” Related links: n The news of Koziel's hiring, succeeding Barry Melancon as CEO. n Melancon's words about Koziel in a December podcast conversation. n Koziel's previous JofA podcast appearance, as part of a 2022 episode when he was the CEO of Allinial Global. What you'll learn from this episode: · Three facts for members to know about Koziel, in his words. · What he sees as the profession's strengths and opportunities. · Why he calls accounting pipeline concerns “not a U.S.-only problem.” · Koziel's “listening tour” with members and his request for feedback. · More about his ideas for creating communities within the global membership of AICPA & CIMA. · Koziel's thoughts on the evolution of the profession. · The important distinction between outsourcing and offshoring. · A look ahead to part two of the conversation.
Former IRSAC Chair Annette Nellen joins Roger and Annie to discuss critical challenges facing the IRS and tax administration. The conversation explores the growing tax gap, the importance of consistent IRS funding, and efforts to modernize taxpayer services through online accounts and digital solutions. The discussion also delves into proposals for tax preparer regulation, continuing education requirements for enrolled agents, and the complexities of implementing cryptocurrency reporting requirements.SponsorsPadgett - Contact Padgett or Email Jeff Phillips(00:00) - Welcome to Federal Tax Updates (01:35) - Introducing Special Guest Annette Nellen (02:26) - Understanding the ERSAC Annual Report (05:40) - Deep Dive into the Tax Gap (07:52) - IRS Funding and Its Impact (19:04) - Tax Literacy and Education Challenges (25:48) - Modernizing the IRS and Funding (30:33) - IRS Hiring Challenges and Misconceptions (31:48) - Impact of Potential Hiring Freeze (33:28) - IRS Strategic Operating Plans and Online Accounts (36:50) - Technological Advancements and Challenges (43:44) - Practice Management and Professional Development (47:48) - Regulating Tax Return Preparers (52:17) - Digital Currency and Cryptocurrency Regulations (55:19) - Conclusion and Final Thoughts Connect with Annette Nellenhttps://www.linkedin.com/in/annette-nellen-7448824IRSAC Reporthttps://www.irs.gov/pub/irs-pdf/p5316.pdfGet NASBA Approved CPE or IRS Approved CELaunch the course on EarmarkCPE to get free CPE/CE for listening to this episode.Connect with the Roger and Annie on LinkedInhttps://www.linkedin.com/in/rogerharrispbs/https://www.linkedin.com/in/annie-schwab-852418261/ReviewLeave a review on Apple Podcasts or PodchaserSubscribeSubscribe to the Federal Tax Updates podcast in your favorite podcast app!This podcast is a production of the Earmark Media
If you have zero clue what co-pay maximizers and/or co-pay accumulators are and the financial incentives involved for PBMs (pharmacy benefit managers) and plan sponsors here, after you're done listening to this episode, go back and listen to the show with Joey Dizenhouse (EP423). Also, the episode called “Game Theory Gone Wild” with Dea Belazi, PharmD, MPH (EP293). Both these shows could fill in some blanks. For a full transcript of this episode, click here. If you enjoy this podcast, be sure to subscribe to the free weekly newsletter to be a member of the Relentless Tribe. Here's the micro mini of the co-pay maximizer/accumulator deal. These are vehicles that are designed by vendors who are also sometimes called maximizers or sometimes they're also PBMs. But these programs are designed to get as much money out of Pharma as possible in the form of co-pay support. So, here's how the maximizers are supposed to maximize plan sponsors getting pharma money. Say, for some drug, the pharma company has, I don't know, $12,000 max in co-pay support available to patients in total per year. Pharma does always cap the dollars that are available for patients. So, in this hypothetical, $12k a year is available. What a forthright or well-run maximizer will do is figure out, you know, if there's $12k max available, then they'll set a co-pay—so there's variable co-pays for patients—so they'll set a patient co-pay of, like, $1000 a month, which adds up to $12k over 12 months of the year. Get it? Every single month, the patient has a $0 co-pay, but the plan maximizes the dollars that the plan gets. Or, you know, maybe they'll charge $1,025 a month so the patient has some small “skin in the game,” and the plan sponsor just banked $12k. Sounds great, right? Well, sure, when it works as promised … and we'll get to this in a moment. Accumulators, on the other hand, have no such “Hey, let's make sure the patient actually gets their meds” guardrails. They hear that the Pharma is offering $12k, and the accumulator vendor and their plan sponsor clients also are like, “Cool, let's get that money as fast as possible.” So, they make the co-pay for that drug, I don't know, like hypothetically $3000. Great, now the patient runs out of that co-pay money in May. And don't forget and/or let me inform you, for both maximizers and accumulators, dollars paid by the Pharma generally don't count to the plan deductible for the patient. So now, the patient walks into the pharmacy, if in an accumulator or in a poorly run maximizer program, they walk into the pharmacy in May and are told that if they want their drug, they're gonna need to pay the $3000 co-pay that was set out of pocket every month until they reach their deductible. With some of these co-pay maximizer/accumulator plans, the plan sponsor may be a little bit out of the loop relative to what is actually going on here. The plan sponsor may think that members are doing fine—you know, they're getting their drug every month—so they may be surprised to learn about this running out of money in May issue. And what is true more often than it's not true, this $3000 or whatever—hundreds or thousands of dollars—payment due co-pay, the patient learns about it at the pharmacy counter or while trying to get chemo. It comes as a complete surprise, the fact that they owe three grand or whatever. What patient just shrugs and pays up in that moment because they happen to have their entire deductible or thousands of dollars lying around and at the ready? What a shock to find this out at the pharmacy counter or at the infusion clinic. Some of these maximizer programs are also starting to veer back into accumulator zones, like they're doing things such as saying that the member must pay their out-of-pocket max or their deductible or 30% of the cost of the drug, right, like some number before the plan will allow the patient to use the co-pay reimbursement program to begin with. So, there's other things that are emerging right now, which, again, cause the patient to have a very, very large out of pocket in order for them to get a drug which they have been prescribed and—ostensibly, at least—need. Allegedly, and sometimes for sure, dollars raked in from Pharma make it across the PBM/maximizer, vendor, middleman trench all the way over to the plan sponsor. For sure, especially for the administrative only maximizer vendors … yeah, you're gonna have the dollars actually making it to the plan sponsor. But sometimes the vendor running these programs is paid spread, right? So, the more expensive the drug and the richer the co-pay card program, the more the vendor will make because they take a percentage of savings. So, the more expensive, the more savings, therefore, the more the vendor is gonna make. In these cases where the vendor is paid a spread, can I take Perverse Incentives for $600, Alex? Right? But in sum, again, there's a lot to this conversation with Bill Sarraille, so please do listen to the whole thing. Bill offers five main pieces of advice, so I'm just gonna cover them right here up front—spoiler alert, I guess, but just to keep them all in one place. 1. Look into what is going on with a maximizer and/or accumulator program. First of all, is the plan sponsor paying spread? And also, how are these programs being marketed to members and how aggressively? Because there are a lot of plan sponsors having way more negative impact than they suspect they are. So, that's point of advice #1: Really look into actually what is happening on the grounds with some of these programs. 2. Eliminate surprise. Any plan sponsor listening, and Brian Reid also says this very crisply in an episode a month or so ago (EP456). If a plan sponsor wants to do stuff like this—like force a patient to pay hundreds or thousands of dollars out of pocket—if at any point during the year they are gonna wind up with thousands of dollars in co-pay or coinsurance to get their Crohn's disease med or cancer med or whatever, be really up front about this at least. It's really important if we really want to make sure that patients are taking maintenance meds and getting the medications that they're prepared for the reality that, at a certain point during the year, they are going to have a really big bill. 3. There is legal risk here. So also, Bill's advice is check into whether accumulators and/or maximizers are unlawful under the ACA (Affordable Care Act) and/or by deceptive practices rules when maximizers or accumulators are teed up as a benefit. And it, again (reference point of advice #2), it's not explained that dollars they get from Pharma will be taken by the plan and not applied to the patient deductible. I was just reading about the crazy aggressive marketing tactics that some of these vendors are using to get members to sign up and … yeah, definitely look into deceptive practice rules. 4. If it's utilization management that we're trying to achieve here, then your utilization manager should be utilization managing. These maximizers are not meant to impact utilization management. Patients really cannot differentiate, as per study after study, it's very difficult for patients to differentiate high-value from low-value care or meds. So, pretty much the impact of having a patient with thousands or hundreds of dollars of out-of-pocket spend to get a med isn't going to be to ensure that the right people are taking the right med. Point is, use the right tool for the right job. So, if we're trying to keep patients away from low-value meds, the tool for that is utilization management. Also be aware, if the PBM says it cannot do utilization management or you'll lose your rebates and/or is pushing into a maximizer accumulator program to do this instead, that's kind of a clue that they cannot do it because they are taking money from Pharma to not have any restrictions on a drug. Read the article in the New York Times (you're welcome) about how PBMs took secret payments for the free flow of opioids, and Chris Crawford also talks about this sort of same-ish thing in an upcoming show relative to GLP-1s. But if you're trying to do utilization management, then do utilization management. 5. Use our understanding of this whole goings-on as a rationale or a way to tamp down perverse incentives. We want to wind up with patients getting charged a percentage of net prices, not a percentage of some wildly inflated list price with this whole accumulator maximizer contributing to, you know, just more wildly inflated list prices so the co-pay programs can be bigger and someone can make even more money off of the percentage of savings. And plan sponsors addicted to rebates now have another bucket of cash. Like, this is just another example of how perverse incentives pervade the system. And we should certainly be aware of that. Bill Sarraille was a healthcare attorney for many years. He retired from his law firm on the first of last year, and now he's doing the things he wanted to do before but couldn't because his billable rate was too high. Bill is teaching at the University of Maryland Law School and doing some regulatory consulting, etc. He's working with a variety of patient groups. Also mentioned in this episode are University of Maryland Francis King Carey School of Law; Joey Dizenhouse; Dea Belazi, PharmD, MPH; Brian Reid; Chris Crawford; Marilyn Bartlett; Scott Haas; Paul Holmes; and Tom Nash. You can learn more at University of Maryland Francis King Carey School of Law and by following Bill on LinkedIn. You can also sign up for his Substack. Bill Sarraille is a professor of practice at the University of Maryland Francis King Carey School of Law, a regulatory consultant, and a retired senior member of the Healthcare Practice group at Sidley Austin LLP. Bill is a nationally recognized expert in healthcare, life sciences, drugs, medical devices, and patient access to treatments. He is widely known for his expertise in a broad array of healthcare matters, including rare disease treatment access barriers, pharmaceutical pricing, Anti-Kickback Law compliance, the 340B program, and managed care and PBM issues. During his years practicing law, Bill was recognized repeatedly by The Best Lawyers in America in both healthcare law and administrative law. He was also consistently listed as a leader in the field of healthcare law in Chambers USA: America's Leading Lawyers for Business. Bill also serves as the general counsel of the charity the Pharmaceutical Coalition for Patient Access, as an advisor to multiple patient advocacy groups on patient access issues, a compliance advisor to a coinsurance patient assistance foundation, and as the director of a rare disease society and Kalderos, Inc., a health IT firm with a focus on effectuating pharmaceutical discounts and rebates. 09:31 What should plan sponsors be aware of right now? 14:01 What is the justification for maximizers, and why is this at odds with the purpose of insurance? 18:05 Where does the issue of “fairness” land within cost containment? 20:00 Brian Reid's LinkedIn post on insurance company access challenges. 21:30 What are the real legal issues presented by some of these co-pay maximizers and co-pay accumulator programs? 27:06 How are these programs creating perverse incentives? 29:28 EP450 with Marilyn Bartlett, CPA, CGMA, CMA, CFM. 32:16 “If you're covered by the ACA, I think this is unlawful.” 32:57 What advice does Bill have in regard to these programs? 33:49 What potential litigations does Bill see coming in the near future in regard to these co-pay maximizers and co-pay accumulator programs? 38:38 EP365 with Scott Haas. 38:45 EP397 with Paul Holmes. You can learn more at University of Maryland Francis King Carey School of Law and by following Bill on LinkedIn. You can also sign up for his Substack. @HCLAWComment discusses #costcontainment on our #healthcarepodcast. #healthcare #podcast #pharma #healthcareleadership #healthcaretransformation #healthcareinnovation Recent past interviews: Click a guest's name for their latest RHV episode! Stacey Richter (INBW41), Andreas Mang (Encore! EP419), Dr Komal Bajaj, Cynthia Fisher, Stacey Richter (INBW40), Mark Cuban and Ferrin Williams (Encore! EP418), Rob Andrews (Encore! EP415), Brian Reid, Dr Beau Raymond, Brendan Keeler