Podcasts about summit virtual cfo

In today's rapidly evolving financial landscape, small business CFOs are navigating complexities that demand more than spreadsheets and manual processes.In this episode of The Modern CPA Success Show, Ahikam Kaufman, co-founder and CEO of SafeBooks AI, explains how AI is transforming financial operations, enhancing data integrity, and streamlining decision-making. With over 20 years of experience in Fintech and corporate finance, Ahikam shares practical insights on using technology to elevate CFO strategies beyond traditional boundaries.From automating transaction monitoring to strengthening financial data governance, Ahikam discusses real-world solutions that empower CFOs to focus on strategy rather than spreadsheets. His expertise sheds light on how AI-driven automation reduces errors, improves efficiency, and creates room for deeper financial insights. Tune in now if you're ready to take your financial processes to the next level and ▶️ SafeBooks AI: How AI is Shaping the Future of Small Business CFOs? With Ahikam KaufmanEpisode resources:● Summit Virtual CFO by Anders website: https://www.summitcpa.net/ ● If you have questions or would like to be a guest on the show, email us at mcpasuccessshow@anderscpa.com ● Check out the Virtual CFO Playbook Course: https://anderscpa.com/virtual-cfo-services/vcfo-playbook/ QuotesAhikam Kaufman - "Automation and AI should be your best friends. Whatever can be automated should be automated."Tom Wadelton: "The biggest value we can provide to clients is not just doing the work faster, but doing it more accurately and catching issues before they become bigger problems."Adam Hale - "There's a lot of different tools out there, but really just start with understanding what the problem is first and then attack it from that direction."Ahikam Kaufman is the CEO of SafeBooks AI, a technology executive with deep expertise in Fintech, SaaS, business operations, and corporate finance. He has led and scaled global businesses, using technology to streamline financial processes and drive growth. At SafeBooks AI, he empowers small business CFOs to optimize decision-making through AI-driven solutions.Website: http://www.safebooks.ai/Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/ahikam.kaufmanLinkedin: https://www.linkedin.com/in/ahikam-kaufman-688310/_________________________________________________________________________________________The Modern CPA Success Show is the go-to podcast for accounting firm owners eager to enhance profitability and master Virtual CFO services. This podcast leverages combined expertise in delivering top-tier Virtual CFO services across North America.Website: https://the-modern-cpa-success-show.simplecast.com/  Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/vcfobyanders  Linkedin: https://www.linkedin.com/company/vcfobyanders/ Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/vcfobyanders YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@vcfobyanders   X: https://x.com/vcfobyanders ________________________________________________________________________________________Tom Wadelton is a Virtual CFO at Summit CPA Group, bringing

When the time comes to consider selling, it's easy to feel buried in uncertainty and daily chaos. How do you prepare your business for sale?In this episode, Tom Wadelton and Adam Hale from Summit Virtual CFO by Anders walk you through what it really takes to prepare your business for sale. They share straightforward insights into how to think beyond putting out daily fires and start making strategic moves that increase the value of your business. Adam and Tom break down key valuation metrics like EBITDA, what buyers are really looking for, and how documenting your business's financial story today can add real dollars to your sale price down the road. You'll also hear real talk about succession planning, seller financing, and how to remove yourself from the center of your business so it runs smoothly without you.Tune in now and start building a business that's ready for whatever comes next.▶️ Preparing Your Business for SaleEpisode resources:● Summit Virtual CFO by Anders website: https://www.summitcpa.net/ ● If you have questions or would like to be a guest on the show, email us at mcpasuccessshow@anderscpa.com ● Check out the Virtual CFO Playbook Course: https://vcfoplaybook.summitcpa.net/QuotesTom Wadelton: "Having clear financial benchmarks and industry comparisons can significantly enhance the perceived value of your business when preparing it for sale."Adam Hale - “To effectively prepare for a sale, businesses must proactively document their financial narratives and regularly track unusual items, ensuring clarity when potential buyers examine financial statements.”_________________________________________________________________________________________The Modern CPA Success Show is the go-to podcast for accounting firm owners eager to enhance profitability and master Virtual CFO services. This podcast leverages combined expertise in delivering top-tier Virtual CFO services across North America.Website: https://the-modern-cpa-success-show.simplecast.com/  Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/vcfobyanders  Linkedin: https://www.linkedin.com/company/vcfobyanders/ Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/vcfobyanders YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@vcfobyanders   X: https://x.com/vcfobyanders _______________________________________________________________________________________Tom Wadelton is a Virtual CFO at Summit Virtual CFO by Anders, bringing over 20 years of financial expertise from his tenure at a Fortune 500 company. He has extensive experience spanning financial management, accounting operations, and information technology integration. Tom specializes in delivering strategic Virtual CFO services, helping businesses optimize their financial performance through advanced accounting solutions.Website: https://www.summitcpa.net/   LinkedIn: 

Creative Agency Success Show (Episode 144): “A maturity model isn't a report card, it's about understanding where your decision-making capabilities are.” - Jamie NauIn this episode of The Creative Agency Success Show, Jamie Nau and Jody Grunden pull back the curtain on how small business owners can move from just getting by to truly thriving. They've spent the last eight months crafting a maturity model designed to help you assess where your business stands in five key areas: cash management, forecasting, profitability, sales outlook, and financial reporting. But here's the thing—it's not about being perfect. It's about having a clear path forward.Imagine being able to make decisions with confidence, knowing you're moving in the right direction. That's the power of understanding where your business currently stands and what small but impactful steps you can take next.So, what's your next move? Tune in now and start building a business that works for you—not the other way around.▶️ What's a Maturity Model Anyway?Find more podcast episodes on our website: http://www.summitcpa.net/podcasts Episode resources:●       Summit Virtual CFO by Anders website: https://www.summitcpa.net/ ●       Love our content? Sign up for our newsletter: https://www.summitcpa.net/summit-news. ●       Digital Dollars and Cents: A Virtual CFO's Playbook to help Digital Companies Create a Financial Roadmap to Success, is now an audiobook! Download it here: https://vcfo.summitcpa.net/ddc   _________________________________________________________________________________________The Creative Agency Success Show helps service-based business owners master the financial side of growth. Hosted by Jamie Nau, Virtual CFO, and Jody Grunden, Partner at Anders CPAs + Advisors, the podcast dives into essential financial strategies for scaling creative agencies. With insights from industry experts and real-world experiences, episodes explore topics like cash flow management, forecasting, and financial maturity models. Backed by Summit Virtual CFO Services by Anders, this bi-weekly show provides actionable guidance for business owners navigating financial complexity. Join the conversation to build a stronger, more financially successful agency.Website: https://the-virtual-cpa-success-show-for-creative-agencies.simplecast.com/   Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/vcfobyanders   Linkedin: https://www.linkedin.com/company/vcfobyanders/  Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/vcfobyanders  YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@vcfobyanders   X: https://x.com/vcfobyanders ________________________________________________________________________________________Jamie Nau, Summit Virtual CFO, is a seasoned financial expert with a deep understanding of business growth sta

Many firms find themselves delivering outsourced accounting but struggling to break into true advisory work. In this episode of The Modern CPA Success Show, Amy Bridges, Senior Manager of CAS Professional Services at CPA.com, shares how firms like yours can build a thriving CAS practice that's scalable, efficient, and impactful.Amy's journey into the world of CAS is anything but ordinary. With a background in mathematics, software, and education, she brings a unique perspective to how firms can leverage technology and structured methodologies to optimize their services. At CPA.com, she has played a pivotal role in shaping the CAS landscape, helping firms implement frameworks that streamline their offerings and improve client outcomes.Tune in now to hear actionable strategies and learn how CPA.com is shaping the future of Client Advisory Services!▶️ How CPA.com Revolutionized CAS with Amy BridgesEpisode resources:● Summit Virtual CFO by Anders website: https://www.summitcpa.net/ ● If you have questions or would like to be a guest on the show, email us at mcpasuccessshow@anderscpa.com ● Check out the Virtual CFO Playbook Course: https://vcfoplaybook.summitcpa.net/QuotesAmy Bridges - “Initially, we focused on cloud-based accounting, but CAS has evolved significantly. Now, CPA.com is helping firms transition from basic bookkeeping to proactive, valuable advisory services.”Tom Wadelton: "The educational tools provided by CPA.com ensure firms can deliver consistent advisory services, reducing confusion and enhancing client satisfaction."_________________________________________________________________________________________Amy Bridges is a seasoned professional in practice development, curriculum design, and client advocacy within the accounting industry. As a Senior Manager of Practice Development at CPA.com, she plays a pivotal role in shaping educational programs that empower CPAs for the digital age. With expertise in assessment, learning strategy, and client training, she leads the development of the Client Advisory Services (CAS) Roadmap Workshop. Her passion for innovation and strategic enablement has been instrumental in revolutionizing CAS at CPA.com.Website: https://www.cpa.com/   Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/CPAdotcom Youtube: https://www.youtube.com/user/CPA2BizVideo  LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/amylynnbridges/ https://www.linkedin.com/company/cpa-com/  X: https://x.com/cpacom _________________________________________________________________________________________The Modern CPA Success Show is the go-to podcast for accounting firm owners eager to enhance profitability and master Virtual CFO services. Hosted bi-weekly by Tom Wadelton, Virtual CFO, and Adam Hale, Partner at Anders CPAs + Advisors, this podcast leverages their combined expertise in delivering top-tier Virtual CFO services across North America. Each episode features in-depth conversations with industry-leading e

In this episode of The Path to Freedom Podcast, Wes is joined by Jody Grunden, the founder of Summit Virtual CFO by Anders. Jody pioneered the virtual CFO model over 20 years ago and has helped countless businesses optimize their financial strategies.   They discuss:   -The origins of Summit Virtual CFO and its evolution over two decades -How virtual CFO services help small businesses scale strategically -Key financial metrics that business owners need to track -The importance of cash reserves and dynamic forecasting -Subscription-based billing and remote work: game-changers for service businesses -Jody's entrepreneurial journey, from bootstrapping to a multimillion-dollar exit -Jody also shares insights from his book Digital Dollars and Cents and offers valuable advice for business owners who want to make smarter financial decisions.   Connect with Jody & Summit Virtual CFO:   Get Jody's book: Digital Dollars and Cents – Email Jody@SummitCPANet for a free link or find it on Amazon   Listen to Virtual CPA Success Show podcast: https://www.summitcpa.net/podcasts   Subscribe & Stay Connected: If you enjoyed this episode, make sure to subscribe to The Path to Freedom Podcast on your favorite podcast platform. Leave a review and share this episode with fellow entrepreneurs looking to build profitable and sustainable businesses!   7 Steps to Owning a Franchise: https://path2frdm-1.hubspotpagebuilder.com/path-to-freedom-about-franchising   If you would like to learn more about this particular franchise opportunity or discuss franchise ownership in general - feel free to use the link to my calendar below to schedule a free, no-obligation introductory meeting.   https://calendly.com/wes-barefoot/introcallwithwes   Connect with Wes:   Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/path2frdm/ Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/path2frdm Linkedin: https://www.linkedin.com/in/wesleybarefoot/   #CFO #Business #Franchise

Episode Title: Ethical Accounting in the Age of Automation: Insights from Bench's ShutdownEpisode Summary:Tom and Jesse from FinOptimal return to the show to discuss the Bench shutdown with Hannah and Joey. Along the way they discuss the rise of AI in the industry, changes to the 150 CPE credit rule, memes, and how CPAs can better convey what they do to clients. The conversation underscores the importance of adaptability, effective communication, and maintaining professional standards amidst technological changes, using Bench's experience as a cautionary tale for the profession.Episode Quote:"No matter what, whoever stays on the cutting edge of what's new is going to be okay. If you have that much red tape and hesitancy to try new stuff, you're going to get left behind." -Tom ZehentnerThe finer details of this episode:● Recent developments surrounding the company Bench and its implications.● Impact of artificial intelligence and automation on accounting practices.● Pricing strategies and the sustainability of low-cost accounting services.● Importance of effective communication and client engagement in accounting.● Future of the accounting profession in light of technological advancements and market changes.Episode resources:●       Summit Virtual CFO by Anders website: https://www.summitcpa.net/●       Email us with questions or if you'd like to be a guest on the show: youngcpasuccessshow@anderscpa.com●       We're hiring! Check out our open positions: https://www.summitcpa.net/career-opportunities●       Check out Tom and Jesse at https://www.finoptimal.com/Timestamps:Podcast Episode TimestampsIntroduction to the Podcast (00:00:00)Overview of the podcast's purpose for young accounting professionals.Artificial Intelligence in Accounting (00:00:22)Discussion on the impact of AI and automation in the accounting industry.Bench's Downfall (00:01:01)Speaker reflects on Bench's failure and compares it to similar companies.Synopsis of Bench's Situation (00:01:46)Speaker provides a brief history and overview of Bench's business model and challenges.Bench's Business Strategy (00:03:10)Analysis of Bench's target market and pricing strategy in the accounting industry.Bench's Abrupt Closure (00:04:12)Details about Bench's sudden shutdown and subsequent acquisition.Discussion on Pricing and Market Position (00:05:16)Debate on whether Bench's pricing strategy contributed to its failure.Building a General Ledger (00:06:18)Insights on the challenges of developing a proprietary general ledger in accounting.Industry Reaction to Bench's Demise (00:08:00)Exploration of the accounting community's mixed reactions to Bench's failure.The Ethics of Offshoring (00:09:15)Concerns about the ethics of offshoring in the accounting industry.Echo Chamber of Opinions (00:10:10)Critique of the repetitive nature of industry opinions following Bench's downfall.Branding Issues in Accounting (00:14:00)Discussion on the lack of clear branding and definitions within the accounting profession.The Need for Standardization (00:15:04)Debate on the challenges of standardizing roles and services in accounting.Empowering the Accounting Community (00:17:49)Call for accounting professionals to charge more and elevate industry standards.Understanding Legal Fees vs. Accounting Fees (00:18:54)Discussion on the disparity in perceptions of value between legal fees and accounting services.The Need for Better Communication in Accounting (00:19:50)Emphasis on accountants demonstrating their value effectively to clients.Challenges in Marketing Accounting Services (00:20:59)Insights on the difficulties accountants face in marketing their services to business owners.Using Memes to Explain Accounting (00:22:06)Proposal to use memes as a tool to communicate accounting concepts to clients.The Importance of Relatable Communication (00:23:05)Advocating for a more human approach in explaining accounting to clients.Targeted Marketing Strategies (00:24:26)Discussion on tailoring marketing strategies to specific demographics like sports fans or millennial moms.Memes as a Service Concept (00:25:35)Idea of creating a service dedicated to developing accounting-related memes for marketing.The Role of Personal Branding (00:26:50)Exploration of how personal branding and visual cues reflect professional identity.Curriculum Changes in Accounting Education (00:28:20)Suggestion that accounting education should include marketing and communication skills.Concerns Over the 150-Hour CPA Requirement (00:29:26)Debate on whether reducing the 150-hour requirement will effectively address the accounting profession's challenges.Need for Practical Skills in CPA Certification (00:31:02)Call for more practical examinations in CPA certification rather than focusing solely on credit hours.Addressing the Accounting Pipeline Problem (00:34:09)Discussion on broader issues affecting the accounting profession, beyond just the 150-hour rule.Podcast Episode TimestampsThe Impact of AI on Jobs (00:36:38)Discussion on how AI won't take jobs, but those who adapt will thrive.Embracing Innovation in Accounting (00:37:00)The importance of trying new technologies to stay competitive in the accounting field.Automation Opportunities in Accounting (00:38:41)Exploration of a tool to automate the closed workbook reconciliation process.Finding the Right Solutions (00:39:15)Discussion on the challenges of finding comprehensive accounting solutions.Leveraging Technology for Efficiency (00:40:03)Insights on using Google Sheets and QuickBooks for effective accounting practices.Product Development and Features (00:46:01)Overview of new products being developed to enhance accounting efficiency.Building Trust in Technology (00:48:00)Importance of reliability in accounting software and the skepticism of accountants.Using Tools in Practice (00:49:10)The value of actively using developed products in real-world accounting scenarios.

Episode Title:Insights on Navigating Busy SeasonEpisode Summary:In this podcast episode, Joey and Hannah delve into the rigors of busy season in the accounting industry, discussing the personal and professional challenges it presents. They share their experiences with long hours, work-life balance, and the need for industry change. While highlighting the importance of leadership in creating sustainable work environments and the role of self-care, they also explore the value of mentorship and being open to advice and constructive criticism, emphasizing the significance of empathy and communication in the workplace.Episode Quote: "The 'it just is what it is' mentality is to me a piece of bad advice. I really struggle with accepting that to just be truth when there are alternate ways to get a job done effectively." -Hannah HoodThe finer details of this episode:●     Impact of leadership on addressing workload and personal challenges●     Effects of automation and delegation on busy season workload●     Staffing shortage as a significant challenge in the industry●     Importance of self-care and empathy in the workplaceEpisode resources:●       Summit Virtual CFO by Anders website: https://www.summitcpa.net/●       Email us with questions or if you'd like to be a guest on the show: youngcpasuccessshow@anderscpa.com●       We're hiring! Check out our open positions: https://www.summitcpa.net/career-opportunitiesTimestamps:Understanding Busy Season (00:00:23)Joey and Hannah share their childhood experiences and initial challenges during busy seasons in the accounting industry.Personal Boundaries and Work-Life Balance (00:02:17)Hannah discusses setting boundaries and maintaining work-life balance while managing a busy accounting job with a family.Finding Little Wins and Industry Changes (00:05:29)Joey talks about finding small victories during busy seasons and discusses changes in the industry's approach to busy seasons.The Future of Busy Season (00:08:16)Joey and Hannah discuss the likelihood of busy season ever ending and the impact of automation and staffing shortages.Challenging the Status Quo (00:11:42)Hannah challenges the notion that busy season just "is what it is" and advocates for change in work-life balance expectations.Leadership and Cultural Change (00:14:06)Joey criticizes outdated leadership advice and discusses the need for cultural change in the accounting industry.Individual vs. Leadership Responsibility (00:17:39)The conversation shifts to the role of individuals and leadership in driving change and improving work conditions in the industry.Self-care and Leadership (00:18:01)Importance of self-care and leadership in bringing about change in the industry.Empathy and Management (00:19:06)Discussion on empathy in management and understanding the struggles of team members.Work-Life Balance and Culture (00:20:04)Challenges of work-life balance, creating an environment for employees' well-being, and changing corporate culture.Communication and Responsibility (00:22:30)Importance of open communication and individual responsibility in addressing work-related challenges.Mentorship and Influence (00:24:51)The significance of mentorship in office culture and the influence of mentors in early careers.Constructive Criticism and Mentorship (00:31:15)Struggles with constructive criticism and evolving perspectives on mentorship as one matures in their career.Tactical Conversations and Learning (00:34:46)The value of tactical conversations and learning from mentors in professional growth.Investment in the Process (00:36:33)The importance of mutual investment in professional relationships and the learning process.Being Comfortable with Being Wrong (00:37:31)Discussion on being comfortable with not having all the answers and seeking constructive criticism.The Impact of Grades on Learning (00:39:29)Exploration of the relationship between grades, learning, and success, with a focus on the millennial generation's perspective.Athletes and Mentorship (00:42:03)Anecdotal discussion on the potential advantages of athletes in mentor-mentee relationships and their comfort with taking instruction.The Role of Coachability in Success (00:42:47)Exploration of the importance of coachability and willingness to accept help, particularly in relation to athletes and their success.Intentionality in Seeking Mentorship (00:49:59)Advice on being intentional and proactive in seeking mentorship, including reaching out and showing understanding for busy schedules.Building Mentorship Relationships (00:51:04)Advice on initiating mentorship conversations by asking about the other person's expertise and seeking their advice, reframing the conversation to focus on the mentor.Opportunities for Career Development (00:52:44)Promotion of remote work opportunities and open positions for career development at Summit Virtual CFO and Anders CPAs and Advisors.

Episode Title:Defined Benefit Plans Demystified: Expert Insights for Young CPAs with David PodellEpisode Summary:Co-host Hannah shares her experiences with tax planning and defined benefit plans, setting the stage for guest expert David Podell from Business Benefits Consultants. David demystifies defined benefit plans, emphasizing their relevance and tax advantages. The discussion covers identifying client opportunities, the importance of advisory roles, and resources for further learning.Episode Notes:"You could increase your retirement benefit, take money out of the business pre-tax, and I'm going to save you this on your taxes." -David PodellThe finer details of this episode:●       Common misconceptions about defined benefit plans and their relevance in modern financial strategies.●       Importance of collaboration with financial advisors, third-party administrators, and attorneys in implementing defined benefit plans.●       Resources available for CPAs to deepen their understanding of defined benefit plans and tax strategies.●       Encouragement for young CPAs to engage with clients and explore tailored financial solutions.Episode resources:●       Summit Virtual CFO by Anders website: https://www.summitcpa.net/●       Email us with questions or if you'd like to be a guest on the show: youngcpasuccessshow@anderscpa.com●       We're hiring! Check out our open positions: https://www.summitcpa.net/career-opportunities●       Check out Business Benefits Consulting! https://businessbenefitsconsultants.com/Timestamps:Introduction to the Episode (00:00:00)The host welcomes listeners and introduces the podcast's purpose for young accounting professionals.New Format Announcement (00:00:23)Hannah discusses the new episode format after attending a podcast convention, aiming for shorter content.Guest Introduction (00:01:00)Hannah introduces David Podell, an expert on defined benefit plans and tax planning.Complexity of Defined Benefit Plans (00:02:57)David explains the confusion surrounding defined benefit plans due to their complexity and lack of understanding.Multiple Players Involved (00:04:42)Discussion on the various professionals needed to manage defined benefit plans effectively.Trigger Words for Advisory Conversations (00:06:18)David shares key phrases that indicate a client may benefit from defined benefit plans.Selling a Business and Tax Structuring (00:08:13)Hannah discusses using defined benefit plans for tax benefits when selling a business.Retirement Planning and Asset Building (00:09:37)The benefits of using defined benefit plans for retirement savings while minimizing taxes.Plan Design Considerations (00:10:37)David emphasizes the importance of tailoring plan designs to meet specific client needs.Learning Resources for Defined Benefit Plans (00:12:46)David suggests resources for understanding defined benefit plans and associated terminology.Acronyms and Terminology Clarification (00:15:03)Discussion on common acronyms in the industry and the need for clear understanding.Importance of Coordination Among Advisors (00:16:25)The significance of having a coordinated approach among various financial advisors.Final Thoughts and Call to Action (00:19:09)David encourages listeners to evaluate clients who may benefit from defined benefit plans.Value of Defined Benefit Plans (00:20:06)Discussion on how defined benefit plans can enhance retirement benefits and provide tax savings.Call to Action (00:20:41)Encouragement for listeners to engage and ask questions about defined benefit plans.Contact Information (00:20:57)Details on how to reach Business Benefits Consultants for further inquiries and support.Gratitude and Reflection (00:21:30)Acknowledgment of the guest's insights and the value added to the listeners' understanding.Career Development Opportunities (00:21:41)Information on job opportunities for young CPAs at Summit Virtual CFO and Anders CPAs and Advisors.

Episode Title: Bridging the Generational Gap: Transforming Leadership for a New Era with Madeline MillerEpisode Notes:In this episode of the Young CPA Success Show, the host and co-hosts Joey and Hannah discuss the challenges faced by young professionals, particularly in accounting, with guest Madeline Miller, a coach with a background in law and entertainment. They explore generational stereotypes, the importance of good leadership, and the need for purpose and recognition in the workplace. Madeline shares her journey and emphasizes the significance of empathy, mentorship, and building supportive work environments. The conversation highlights the evolving expectations of younger generations and the role of leaders in fostering inclusive and fulfilling workplaces."I had been thinking a lot about how I was showing up at work, and whether I was showing up as the leader I wanted to be, and I really had to go back and reinvent the wheel and teach myself what that meant." – Madeline MillerThe finer details of this episode:Challenges faced by young accounting professionals and early-career individuals.Generational stereotypes and perceptions in the workplace.The impact of remote and hybrid work environments on workplace dynamics.The importance of interpersonal skills and relationship-building.The need for training in conflict management and leadership skills.Episode resources:● Summit Virtual CFO by Anders website: https://www.summitcpa.net/● If you have questions or would like to be a guest on the show, email us at: youngcpasuccessshow@anderscpa.com● Check out the Virtual CFO Playbook Course: https://vcfoplaybook.summitcpa.net/● You can find more from Madeline at her website: https://coachingwithmadeline.com/about-madeline-miller/Timestamps:Welcome to the Young CPA Success Show (00:00:00)Introduction to the podcast and its focus on guiding young accounting professionals.Setting the Scene (00:00:23)Discussion of excitement around the episode featuring guest Madeline Miller.Generational Assumptions in the Workplace (00:01:04)Hannah reflects on assumptions made about millennials in the workplace.Bad Managers vs. Bad Jobs (00:02:08)Joey emphasizes that employees leave bad managers, not just bad jobs.Creating Good Workspaces (00:03:12)Call to action for leaders to foster better work environments for younger generations.Epiphanies During the Conversation (00:04:22)Hannah shares insights gained from the conversation with Madeline.Madeline's Background (00:05:07)Madeline discusses her journey from law to coaching, emphasizing purpose and direction.Searching for Fulfillment (00:08:42)Discussion on the common feeling of searching for fulfillment in one's career.Identifying Common Themes (00:08:55)Madeline explains what she looks for in clients feeling lost in their careers.Purpose and Recognition in Work (00:09:28)Madeline highlights the importance of feeling purposeful and recognized in work.Coaching for Authenticity (00:11:07)Discussion on closing the gap between current and desired workplace behavior.Nurturing Future Leaders (00:13:34)Madeline discusses coaching leaders on nurturing purpose in their teams.Shifting from Technical to Leadership Skills (00:16:23)Joey and Madeline explore the challenges of transitioning to leadership roles in careers.The Importance of Developing Future Leaders (00:18:20)Madeline discusses her approach to shaping the next generation of leaders and the importance of mentorship.Shifting Skills in the Workforce (00:19:02)Joey highlights the transition from technical skills to advisory roles in accounting and other industries.Gen Z's Desire for Impact (00:20:09)Joey shares insights on Gen Z's eagerness to make a positive impact compared to previous generations.Empathy in Leadership (00:20:37)Madeline discusses Gen Z's demand for empathy from managers, reflecting on generational differences in expectations.Intergenerational Challenges (00:21:47)Hannah notes the challenges faced by different generations in the workplace, particularly regarding career fulfillment.Communicating Purpose in the Industry (00:22:58)Hannah emphasizes the need for leaders to effectively communicate purpose to attract Gen Z to accounting careers.Simple Steps to Foster Purpose (00:23:50)Madeline outlines basic actions leaders can take to help employees feel purposeful and engaged at work.The Impact of Good Management (00:25:01)Discussion on how good managers can significantly influence employee satisfaction and retention.The Role of Interpersonal Skills (00:26:20)The speakers reflect on the importance of interpersonal relationships in the workplace for long-term fulfillment.Conflict Management Skills (00:27:12)Madeline discusses the necessity of teaching conflict management skills to navigate workplace relationships effectively.Building Resilience in the Workplace (00:29:27)The conversation shifts to the importance of resilience and continuous practice in handling workplace challenges.Understanding Gen Z's Unique Challenges (00:31:02)Joey highlights the distinct challenges Gen Z faces in the workforce compared to previous generations.Curiosity in Leadership (00:31:54)Madeline encourages leaders to adopt a curious mindset to better understand and support younger employees.Independence and Entrepreneurship (00:34:35)Joey discusses how Gen Z's independence challenges traditional business structures and offers opportunities for growth.Nurturing Staff Through Coaching (00:35:45)Madeline advocates for group coaching as a cost-effective way to support and develop younger employees.Leadership Mindset Shift (00:36:41)Discussion on the need for leadership to proactively engage with younger generations.Creating Infrastructure for Engagement (00:37:07)Emphasis on building systems that facilitate communication and support for younger professionals.Assumptions in the Workplace (00:37:11)Importance of avoiding assumptions and encouraging open dialogue among colleagues.Building Camaraderie in the Workplace (00:38:21)Sharing experiences of how informal interactions fostered strong work relationships.Impact of Remote Work on Relationships (00:38:44)Reflection on how remote work limits opportunities for bonding and relationship building.Networking Through Work Relationships (00:39:55)How professional connections made in early career stages can influence future opportunities.Personal Vision and Mission Statements (00:41:15)Discussion on the value of personal mission statements in guiding career paths.Two-Way Value in Sharing Goals (00:42:23)Exploration of how sharing personal goals with managers can enhance workplace relationships.Leadership Opportunities at All Levels (00:43:46)Encouragement that every role in an organization has the potential for leadership.Empowering Younger Staff (00:45:36)The benefits of encouraging younger employees to adopt a leadership mindset.Contacting Madeline for Resources (00:46:28)Information on how to reach Madeline Miller for coaching and resources.

Episode Title:Mastering the Art of Agency Growth: Lessons from Brad FerrisEpisode Summary:In this episode of "The Creative Agency Success Show," hosts engage with Brad Ferris, a seasoned expert with over 20 years in the marketing and creative agency space. The discussion centers on scaling agency businesses, highlighting the importance of strategic hiring, financial planning, and maintaining cash reserves. Brad shares insights on the differences between consulting and coaching, emphasizing the empowerment of agency owners to find their own solutions. Success stories and challenges are discussed, offering practical advice on navigating growth stages and making informed decisions. The episode concludes with actionable steps for agency owners to achieve sustainable growth.Episode Notes:"I truly believe that a lot of visionaries and entrepreneurs think they can outsell anything, but they need to be intentional and build up that cash reserve to dive into the next level." -Brad FarrisThe finer details of this episode:Focus on strategies for agency owners to scale their businesses.Discussion of the challenges faced by agency owners during growth.Importance of hiring the right people for agency success.Distinction between consulting and coaching in the agency context.The role of cash reserves in supporting growth initiatives.Insights on navigating different stages of agency growth.The significance of revisiting goals and aspirations regularly.Addressing conservative mindsets and encouraging calculated risks.The value of external perspectives in identifying areas for improvement.Episode resources:●       Summit Virtual CFO by Anders website: https://www.summitcpa.net/●       Love our content? Sign up for our newsletter: https://www.summitcpa.net/summit-newsletter●       Digital Dollars and Cents: A Virtual CFO's Playbook to help Digital Companies Create a Financial Roadmap to Success, is now an audio book! Download it here: https://vcfo.summitcpa.net/ddc Timestamps:Introduction to the Show (00:00:00)  Overview of "The Creative Agency Success Show" and its focus on helping agency owners. Discussion on Growth Strategies (00:00:15)  Brad Ferris shares insights on achieving the next stage of agency growth. Importance of Coaching (00:00:40)  Speaker 3 highlights Brad's extensive experience and the value of coaching for agencies. Hiring Considerations for Growth (00:01:21)  Discussion on when to hire and which roles to prioritize for agency success. Consulting vs. Coaching (00:02:32)  Brad explains the differences between consulting and coaching in agency settings. Success Story: Navigating Crisis (00:03:35)  Brad shares a client's turnaround story after a significant revenue drop. Engagement Structure (00:05:58)  Brad describes his coaching engagement model and its impact on client awareness. Contingency Planning (00:07:15)  Importance of building contingency time into a CEO's schedule to handle crises. Creative Outlets for Agency Owners (00:09:03)  Helping clients find creative outlets outside work to maintain passion and energy. Hiring Key Team Members (00:09:59)  Discussion on the importance of hiring for growth and the challenges faced. Bottlenecks in Growth (00:10:40)  Identifying the owner as a bottleneck and the need to delegate responsibilities. Sales Role Transition (00:12:02)  The importance of transitioning sales responsibilities as the agency grows. Building a Unified System (00:15:39)  Challenges of managing multiple systems as agencies grow towards $10 million. Strategic Choices for Growth (00:17:22)  Making critical decisions about market focus versus expanding service offerings. Value of External Insights (00:17:58)  The importance of bringing in external voices for fresh perspectives on growth. Financial Preparedness (00:18:42)  The necessity of maintaining cash reserves for new ventures and opportunities. Understanding Cash Reserves (00:18:59)  The importance of maintaining cash reserves for agency growth and navigating challenges. Accelerating Growth Through Cash (00:19:23)  How cash allows for faster growth and opportunities, including acquisitions. Risk and Cash in Business (00:19:58)  Comparison of aggressive business strategies based on available cash. Lessons from the Recession (00:20:33)  Insights on how cash availability during a recession can lead to profitable opportunities. Cash and Client Stability (00:20:49)  Clients with cash reserves can make better decisions and adapt to market changes. Hiring for Growth (00:21:55)  Making key hires can accelerate growth, even when initial profitability is uncertain. Opportunities During Tough Times (00:22:40)  Companies with cash can seize opportunities to hire talent during downturns. Evaluating Conservative Cash Strategies (00:23:20)  Discussing the need for companies to evaluate their conservative cash holdings. Setting Business Goals (00:24:18)  The importance of defining long-term goals to guide financial decisions. The Value of Options (00:26:05)  Understanding how hiring can create options for business owners. Reducing Owner Involvement (00:27:18)  Strategies for owners to reduce their workload while growing the business. The Importance of Continuous Goal Assessment (00:25:02)  Regularly revisiting business goals to adapt to changing circumstances. Card Games and Business (00:28:59)  The role of card games in personal and family bonding, reflecting on competitiveness. Closing Thoughts and Resources (00:32:09)  Brad Ferris shares resources for agency owners to assess growth phases.

In our year end wrap up: Jody, Brett, Tom, Hannah, and Jamie share favorite moments from the show, podcasting resolutions and holiday gift wishes. the hosts reflect on personal anecdotes and provide their aspirations for the upcoming year. They also introduce a new behind-the-scenes team member."If we have the ability to make our clients feel like heroes, that's a complete home run. For me, that was very impactful and has changed the way we present things." – Tom WadeltonThe finer details of this episode:Personal anecdotes and reflections on podcasting experiences.Highlights of memorable podcast episodes and guests.The impact of storytelling in consulting and client relationships.Challenges faced by cannabis companies, including regulatory issues.The importance of community and collaboration in podcasting.Resolutions and goals for the upcoming year in podcasting.The role of technology and AI in the accounting field.Celebrating achievements and growth within the podcasting team.Episode resources:● Summit Virtual CFO by Anders website: https://www.summitcpa.net/● If you have questions or would like to be a guest on the show, email us at mcpasuccessshow@anderscpa.com● Check out the Virtual CFO Playbook Course: https://vcfoplaybook.summitcpa.net/Timestamps:Timestamps by PodSqueezeWelcome to the Modern CPA Success Show (00:00:00)Introduction to the podcast's mission and focus on accounting insights.Jodi's Productivity Comment (00:00:22)Jodi humorously notes low productivity due to the team gathering for the podcast.Brett Congratulates Indiana University (00:00:48)Brett celebrates Indiana University's sports victory while discussing online gambling.Introduction of Christine (00:01:38)Jodi introduces Christine, highlighting her contributions to the podcast team.Minna Joins the Team (00:04:11)Minna shares her background and new role in the podcast.Podcast Ranking Discussion (00:04:48)Discussion about the podcast ranking as number four among accounting firms.Minna's Podcasting Resolution (00:05:46)Minna expresses her goal to improve scheduling for future podcast episodes.Brett's Podcast Experience (00:07:01)Brett shares insights from his podcast, "The Cannabis Access Show," and its educational value.Hannah's Favorite Episode (00:10:07)Hannah reflects on her favorite episode featuring guests from analytics discussing AI and innovation.Tom's Storytelling Insights (00:13:44)Tom discusses the importance of storytelling in consulting and how it relates to clients.Jodi's Favorite Moments (00:16:12)Jodi shares her enjoyment of hosting the podcast and connecting with guests.Podcast Episode TimestampsJodi's Reflection on Past Guests (00:18:18)Jodi shares memorable moments from past podcast episodes, including insights from John and Zeta Marion.Podcasting Resolutions and Christmas Lists (00:19:03)The speakers discuss their podcasting resolutions and what they want for Christmas.Brett's Conference Experience (00:19:50)Brett reflects on the impact of their podcast during conferences and the joy of audience interactions.Tom's Podcasting Goals (00:21:26)Tom shares his aspirations for exploring storytelling and AI in future podcast episodes.Hannah's Community Focus (00:23:33)Hannah emphasizes the importance of creating a fun and inviting atmosphere through their podcast.Brett on Cannabis Regulation (00:26:00)Brett discusses the challenges cannabis businesses face due to IRS regulation 280E and its implications.Christine's Personal Listening Goals (00:31:26)Christine aims to minimize distractions while listening to podcasts to enhance her engagement with the content.Gift-Giving Preferences (00:30:00)Brett and other speakers discuss their preferences for giving and receiving gifts during the holidays.Jamie's Resolution for Guest Follow-Up (00:35:05)Jamie expresses a desire to improve follow-up with potential podcast guests met at events.

Episode Title: 2024 Year in ReviewEpisode Notes:In our year end wrap up: Jody, Brett, Tom, Hannah, and Jamie share favorite moments from the show, podcasting resolutions and holiday gift wishes. the hosts reflect on personal anecdotes and provide their aspirations for the upcoming year. They also introduce a new behind-the-scenes team member."It's super common for us to go into a conference and have someone say, "Hey, I love that podcast you're on." It's really cool, and we really enjoy it." – Jody GrundenThe finer details of this episode:Reflection on the past year in podcastingHumor and camaraderie among the podcast teamDiscussion on online gambling and its legalityInsights from "The Cannabis Access Show" and the cannabis industryIntroduction of a new team member with a background in agricultural tech and politicsPersonal podcasting resolutions for the upcoming yearImportance of audience engagement and connecting with listenersEmphasis on storytelling and its application in client relationshipsHighlights of memorable podcast episodes and guest contributionsCelebration of community, collaboration, and personal growth in podcastingEpisode resources:● Summit Virtual CFO by Anders website: https://www.summitcpa.net/● If you have questions or would like to be a guest on the show, email us at mcpasuccessshow@anderscpa.com● Check out the Virtual CFO Playbook Course: https://vcfoplaybook.summitcpa.net/Timestamps:Introduction to the Episode (00:00:00)The host welcomes listeners to the Creative Agency Success Show, highlighting its value for agency owners.Productivity in One Room (00:00:14)Jodi humorously comments on the team's low productivity due to everyone being together, setting a light-hearted tone.Congratulations to Indiana University (00:00:41)Brett congratulates Indiana University on a sports victory and transitions into a discussion about online gambling.Online Gambling Discussion (00:01:05)The speakers engage in a light banter about online gambling's legality in Indiana and personal stakes in upcoming games.Introducing Christine (00:01:31)Jodi introduces Christine, acknowledging her contributions to the team and welcoming her to the show.Christine's Favorite Podcast (00:02:08)Christine shares her favorite podcast episode, highlighting the Young CPA as relatable for her college experience.Introducing Mina (00:04:04)Mina, a new team member, shares her background in agricultural tech and politics, expressing excitement for her role.Podcast Ranking Discussion (00:04:41)Brett mentions the podcast's ranking, humorously clarifying its position within the United States.Mina's Podcasting Resolution (00:05:39)Mina discusses her goal of maintaining organized scheduling for the podcast, emphasizing the importance of planning ahead.Favorite Podcast Moments (00:06:33)The team discusses their favorite moments and guests from their respective podcasts, starting with Brett's insights.Brett's Podcast Insights (00:07:06)Brett reflects on the educational value of his guests in the cannabis space, highlighting their expertise and fascinating discussions.Christine's Support (00:09:22)Brett thanks Christine for her behind-the-scenes support during a recent conference, showcasing teamwork.Hannah's Favorite Episodes (00:10:00)Hannah shares her favorite episode featuring guests from analytics, discussing their innovative contributions to the accounting space.Tom's Podcast Experience (00:11:33)Tom recounts a humorous incident where he was mistakenly recognized for another podcast, showcasing the dynamics of audience recognition.Storytelling in Podcasts (00:13:36)Tom highlights the importance of storytelling in consulting, referencing insights from guests about the hero's journey.Jodi's Favorite Moments (00:16:04)Jodi expresses appreciation for spending time with Jamie on the podcast and reflects on the year's successes.Memorable Guest Experiences (00:18:11)Jamie shares memorable moments from past episodes, including discussions about life perspectives and marketing insights.Podcast Episode TimestampsPodcasting Resolutions and Christmas Lists (00:18:54)Discussion on personal podcasting resolutions and what each speaker wishes for Christmas.Jodi's Podcasting Resolution (00:19:43)Jodi shares her resolution to engage more with podcast listeners at conferences.Tom's New Year's Resolution (00:21:19)Tom plans to wake up early for podcast workouts and explore storytelling and AI in podcasts.Hannah's Podcasting Goals (00:23:26)Hannah aims to create a fun vibe in her podcast and continue connecting with listeners.Brett on Cannabis Regulations (00:25:53)Brett discusses the challenges of cannabis businesses under strict regulations and hopes for future changes.Christine's Podcasting Focus (00:31:18)Christine wants to support her team and improve their podcast while sharing personal listening habits.Jamie's Follow-Up Resolution (00:35:07)Jamie resolves to follow up with interesting people he meets to invite them on the podcast.Closing Remarks (00:37:16)The host thanks the speakers for their insights and reflects on the enjoyable discussion.

Episode Title: 2024 Year in ReviewEpisode Notes:In our year end wrap up: Jody, Brett, Tom, Hannah, and Jamie share favorite moments from the show, podcasting resolutions and holiday gift wishes. the hosts reflect on personal anecdotes and provide their aspirations for the upcoming year. They also introduce a new behind-the-scenes team member."It's super common for us to go into a conference and have someone say, "Hey, I love that podcast you're on." It's really cool, and we really enjoy it." – Jody GrundenThe finer details of this episode:Reflection on the past year in podcasting, particularly in the accounting industry.Importance of collaboration and sharing knowledge among podcast creators.Personal anecdotes and memorable moments from individual podcasts.Insights gained from interviews with guests in various fields, including cannabis and accounting.Discussion of the dynamics and camaraderie among the podcast crew.Light-hearted banter and humor throughout the conversation.Challenges faced by specific industries, such as cannabis, due to regulations.Personal resolutions and goals for the upcoming year related to podcasting.Emphasis on creating a welcoming and engaging atmosphere for listeners.Episode resources:● Summit Virtual CFO by Anders website: https://www.summitcpa.net/● If you have questions or would like to be a guest on the show, email us at mcpasuccessshow@anderscpa.com● Check out the Virtual CFO Playbook Course: https://vcfoplaybook.summitcpa.net/Timestamps:Welcome to the Young CPA Success Show (00:00:00)Introduction to the podcast, highlighting its purpose for young accounting professionals.Jodi's Favorite Podcast (00:00:23)Jodi humorously comments on productivity loss due to the team gathering for the podcast discussion.Indiana University Sports Victory (00:00:49)Brett congratulates Indiana University on a sports win, engaging in light banter about online gambling.Introducing Christine (00:01:39)Jodi introduces Christine, acknowledging her contributions and excitement about being on camera.Christine's Favorite Podcast (00:02:15)Christine shares her favorite podcast episode, highlighting its relevance to her as a college student.Introduction of Minna (00:04:12)Minna is introduced as a new team member, sharing her background and podcasting role.Podcast Ranking Discussion (00:04:49)Discussion about the podcast's ranking as number four among accounting firms in the nation.Mina's Podcasting Resolution (00:05:47)Mina expresses her goal to improve scheduling for podcast episodes moving forward.Brett's Podcast Insights (00:07:02)Brett discusses his podcast, "The Cannabis Access Show," and the educational value of his guests.Team Collaboration Acknowledgment (00:09:04)Brett thanks Christine for her behind-the-scenes support during a successful event.Hannah's Favorite Episode (00:10:08)Hannah reflects on her favorite podcast episode featuring guests from analytics discussing AI and innovation.Tom's Humorous Podcast Moment (00:11:41)Tom shares a funny moment about being recognized for another podcast, leading to a humorous realization.Storytelling in Podcasting (00:13:45)Tom discusses the importance of storytelling in consulting, inspired by his podcast guests.Jodi's Favorite Moment (00:16:13)Jodi expresses his enjoyment of spending time with Jamie during the podcast, highlighting the camaraderie.Insights from Speakers (00:17:35)Discussion on the value of listening to diverse podcasts and collaborating beyond company silos.Memorable Podcast Moments (00:17:59)Jodi recalls memorable episodes, including a dinner club discussion and a curious question about targeted ads.Podcasting Resolutions and Christmas Lists (00:19:51)Panelists share their podcasting resolutions and Christmas wishes in a combined fun question format.Jody's Gift Philosophy (00:20:46)Jody expresses a preference for giving experiences over receiving gifts, emphasizing meaningful connections.Tom's Podcasting Aspirations (00:21:27)Tom discusses his podcasting goals, focusing on client connections and exploring AI's impact on the industry.Hannah's Community Building (00:24:34)Hannah shares her goal to maintain a fun and approachable podcast atmosphere, encouraging community connections.Brett on Cannabis Regulations (00:26:01)Brett highlights the challenges of cannabis businesses under IRS 280E regulations and hopes for future changes.Christine's Supportive Role (00:31:27)Christine aims to support her co-hosts and improve podcast quality while sharing her personal listening habits.Christmas Gift Preferences (00:33:43)Christine shares her practical Christmas gift request for a blender, reflecting her love for cooking.Jamie's Podcasting Resolution (00:35:06)Jamie expresses a desire to improve follow-up with potential podcast guests met at events.Discussion on Podcast Guests (00:36:37)Jodi reflects on the importance of considering potential podcast guests during conversations.Fun Episode Recap (00:36:55)Jodi shares his enjoyment of the episode, highlighting the camaraderie and relaxed atmosphere.Appreciation for Contributions (00:37:14)Jodi expresses gratitude to everyone for their insights and participation in the podcast.Career Development for Young CPAs (00:37:23)The host promotes remote work opportunities for young CPAs at Summit Virtual CFO and Anders CPAs.

Episode Title:Riding the Entrepreneurial Rollercoaster: Insights from Tom ConlonEpisode Summary:In this episode, the hosts engage with Tom Conlon, founder of North Street Creative, to discuss his entrepreneurial journey and the cyclical nature of business. Tom shares insights on the challenges of running a creative agency, emphasizing the importance of adaptability and timely decision-making. He recounts the impact of economic cycles on business operations and the significance of maintaining strong banking relationships. The conversation also covers the role of structured operating systems like EOS in achieving strategic goals and the necessity of financial visibility. The episode concludes with reflections on media influences and the enduring value of print publications.Episode Notes:"I didn't even have a line of credit until COVID. When it started happening, I realized how crucial it was to have that financial safety net." Tom ConlonThe finer details of this episode:Entrepreneurial journey and background of the guest.The cyclical nature of business and its impact on creative agencies.Challenges faced while running a creative agency, including financial and cultural impacts.Importance of adaptability and making timely decisions in business.Strategies for surviving economic downturns, including financial planning and having a safety net.The role of structured operating systems in enhancing business operations.Financial visibility and its significance in strategic planning.Engaging team members in the goal-setting process for personal and professional development.Influence of media and publications on personal and professional growth.Episode resources:●       Summit Virtual CFO by Anders website: https://www.summitcpa.net/●       Love our content? Sign up for our newsletter: https://www.summitcpa.net/summit-newsletter●       Digital Dollars and Cents: A Virtual CFO's Playbook to help Digital Companies Create a Financial Roadmap to Success, is now an audio book! Download it here: https://vcfo.summitcpa.net/ddc Timestamps: (00:00:00)  Introduction to the podcast and its focus on helping agency owners scale their businesses. Appreciation for Insights (00:00:14)  Discussion on the value of insights brought by co-host Hannah compared to previous co-hosts. Conversation with Tom (00:00:23)  Hannah shares her positive experience speaking with guest Tom about his entrepreneurial journey. Tom's Background (00:02:14)  Tom Conlon introduces himself and his branding agency, North Street Creative, and its focus areas. Agency Evolution (00:02:36)  Tom discusses the evolution of his agency and how they adapted during the pandemic. Entrepreneurial Journey (00:04:15)  Tom reflects on his unexpected entry into entrepreneurship and the transition from freelance work. Lessons from Experience (00:08:45)  Tom shares key lessons learned throughout his 14 years in business, emphasizing cyclical trends. Surviving Down Cycles (00:12:24)  Discussion on strategies to navigate low cycles in business and the importance of timely decisions. Financial Preparedness (00:15:54)  Tom emphasizes the significance of having savings and a line of credit for business stability. Proactive Planning (00:16:52)  Tom outlines how he prepares for future cycles with scenario planning and projections. Culture Challenges During Tough Times (00:18:42)  Tom discusses the impact of difficult times on team culture and leadership dynamics. Financial Priorities Over Culture (00:20:14)  He explains the necessity of prioritizing financial stability over cultural initiatives during crises. Importance of Operating Systems (00:22:08)  The conversation shifts to the benefits of having an operating system like EOS for business decisions. Weekly Meetings and Accountability (00:24:00)  Tom describes how structured meetings improved accountability and focus on larger business goals. Setting Goals with EOS (00:25:47)  He emphasizes the importance of setting and breaking down goals for effective team alignment. Involvement of Team in Rocks (00:27:48)  Tom shares how everyone on the team has individual "rocks" for personal and professional development. Influential Magazines and Media (00:28:47)  Tom reflects on his early influences from magazines and his current consumption of audiobooks. Personal Reading Preferences (00:30:34)  He discusses his interest in financial crime literature and influential business books. Nostalgia for Print Media (00:32:02)  Other speakers share their fond memories of magazines and the tactile experience of reading print.   Closing Remarks and Episode Summary (00:34:22)  The hosts thank Tom for sharing his insights and reflect on the episode's key takeaways.

“It's just so important to show up positive, to show up kind, to just put forth the best that you can because you just don't know what's going on in the background.” – Hannah Hood The finer details of this episode:Guidance for young accounting professionals in their early careersImportance of mindset and adaptability in navigating change within the accounting professionPersonal anecdotes highlighting lessons learned from mentorsThe role of empathy and positivity in client interactionsUnderstanding emotional responses to change and its impact on communicationTransitioning from technical skills to advisory roles in accountingBuilding meaningful relationships with clients beyond transactional interactionsEmbracing discomfort as a pathway to growth and effective communicationThe significance of being present and adaptable during client conversationsEncouragement to invest in personal development through learning from experiences and others Episode resources:Summit Virtual CFO by Anders website: https://www.summitcpa.net/Email us with questions or if you'd like to be a guest on the show: youngcpasuccessshow@anderscpa.comWe're hiring! Check out our open positions: https://www.summitcpa.net/career-opportunitiesConnect with Chris here: https://www.linkedin.com/in/chrispapin/Check out Papin CPA here: https://www.papincpa.com/ Timestamps: Introduction to the Podcast (00:00:00)The host welcomes young accounting professionals and introduces the purpose of the podcast. Theme of Growth and Learning (00:00:23)Joey discusses the importance of mindset for growth in accounting careers and shares personal lessons. Mentorship Anecdote (00:00:49)Joey reflects on lessons learned from his first mentor, Ralph, emphasizing opportunity cost and life lessons. Mindset and Change (00:02:03)Joey connects his mentor's lessons to adapting to change in the accounting profession and personal mindset. Empathy in Client Interactions (00:03:24)Hannah shares experiences working with clients, highlighting the importance of empathy and positivity. Inevitability of Change (00:04:23)Joey emphasizes that change is certain and discusses preparing oneself to respond effectively. Comfort with Change (00:05:28)Joey reflects on the comfort of structure in accounting and the need to adapt to change. Psychology of Change Management (00:06:31)Chris discusses the psychological aspects of change management and how emotions influence client behavior. Skills Gap in Accounting (00:08:53)Hannah notes the changing landscape of the accounting industry and the skills gap in change management. Importance of Flexibility (00:10:58)Chris emphasizes the necessity of being adaptable in client conversations and the evolving expectations. Balancing Processes and Flexibility (00:12:25)Joey discusses the need for foundational processes to enable agile conversations with clients. Interconnectedness of Planning and Financials (00:14:08)Chris highlights the relationship between business plans and financial statements in advisory roles. Building Trust with Clients (00:17:09)Chris shares strategies for fostering trust and open communication with clients for effective advisory work. Practice and Real Conversations (00:19:10)Joey talks about the importance of practice in preparing for difficult conversations in a professional setting. Football Analogy for Preparation (00:20:43)Joey and Chris discuss the relevance of practice in various fields, using football as a metaphor for preparation. Tom Brady's Legacy (21:01)Discussion on how perseverance and fundamentals can lead to success, illustrated by Tom Brady's comeback. Embracing Discomfort (22:31)The importance of being comfortable with discomfort for long-term success in client interactions and conversations. Learning from Experience (23:34)Sharing personal experiences of learning through practice and adapting one's style to improve client communication. The Psychology of Communication (24:52)Understanding emotional responses and the need for adaptability in client interactions to foster deeper relationships. Redefining Success (27:34)A conversation on how generational views on success and failure impact personal growth and professional development. The Value of Conversations (33:29)Highlighting the importance of meaningful conversations over rigid agendas in client meetings for building trust. Creating Safe Spaces (35:09)Discussing the vulnerability in financial conversations and the need for advisors to create a safe environment. Making a Difference (38:15)Illustrating the impact of timely assistance in client relationships and the importance of servant leadership in advisory roles. Personal Fulfillment in Client Relationships (00:40:54)Hannah shares a personal story about overcoming a difficult client interaction and the fulfillment gained from perseverance. Understanding Client Reactions (00:42:42)Discussion on how client reactions often stem from their own issues, not the service provider's actions. The Reality of Client Interactions (00:43:27)Hannah acknowledges that client relationships can be challenging and are influenced by clients' personal lives. Connecting with Chris Papin (00:43:56)Hannah invites listeners to connect with Chris Papin for additional resources and insights on LinkedIn. Opportunities for Young CPAs (00:44:47)Joey encourages young CPAs to explore career development and remote work opportunities with their organization.

Title:Why Did the Accountant Cross the Road? To Connect with Clients on a Deeper Level!Quote:"My clients had and still have amazing reputations in what they do. Most of them don't need huge numbers of new clients; it's more about reputation management and keeping the marketing ticking over." -Chantal CorneliusSummary:In this episode of the Modern CPA Success Show, the host and Tom Walton, a virtual CFO at Anders CPA and Advisors, engage with Chantal Cornelius, founder of Appletree Marketing and author of "Stand Out Strategies." The discussion centers on innovative marketing strategies for accounting firms, emphasizing the importance of emotional connections in client relationships. Chantal shares her unique journey into marketing and introduces her five standout strategies: certainty, connection, contribution, growth, and significance. The episode highlights the need for understanding client emotions, gathering feedback, and tailoring marketing messages to resonate emotionally, ultimately fostering stronger client relationships.Finer Details:Innovative marketing strategies for accounting firmsImportance of emotional connections in client relationshipsChantal Cornelius's journey into marketing and her expertiseConcept of "standout strategies" for business differentiationFive key emotional strategies: Certainty, Connection, Contribution, Growth, and SignificanceThe role of client feedback in improving servicesChallenges of soliciting client feedback in the accounting industryImportance of specialization and niche marketing for businessesPractical tips for implementing emotional marketing strategiesResources for further learning, including Chantal's books and tools for identifying standout strategiesEpisode resources:● Summit Virtual CFO by Anders website: https://www.summitcpa.net/● If you have questions or would like to be a guest on the show, email us at mcpasuccessshow@anderscpa.com● Check out the Virtual CFO Playbook Course: https://vcfoplaybook.summitcpa.net/● Take Chantal's StandOut Strategies test: https://appletreeuk.com/take-the-test/● Check out Chantal's book "StandOut Strategies" : https://appletreeuk.com/products/stand-out-strategies/Timestamps:Welcome to the Modern CPA Success Show (00:00:00)Introduction to the podcast's mission and focus on innovative insights for accounting firms.Introduction of Guest (00:00:22)Tom introduces Chantal Cornelius, highlighting her unique emotional approach to marketing strategies.Chantal's Background (00:01:17)Chantal shares her unexpected journey from animal agriculture to founding a marketing business.Release of "Stand Out Strategies" (00:04:10)Discussion on Chantal's upcoming book, "Stand Out Strategies," set to be printed soon.Definition of Standout Strategies (00:04:31)Chantal explains the concept of standout strategies and their importance in crowded marketplaces.Five Standout Strategies Overview (00:06:38)Chantal outlines five key strategies for businesses to differentiate themselves emotionally.The Strategy of Certainty (00:07:55)Clients desire a sense of safety and reliability from their service providers.The Strategy of Connection (00:08:39)Clients seek a sense of belonging and access to broader resources through their service providers.The Strategy of Contribution (00:09:08)Clients want to feel they are making a positive impact on society through their business choices.The Strategy of Growth (00:09:36)Clients desire empowerment and motivation for personal and business growth.The Strategy of Significance (00:10:12)Clients want to feel valued and respected, seeking a meaningful impact through their services.Using Language in Marketing (00:10:50)Chantal discusses the importance of language in marketing to create emotional connections.Client Needs vs. Company Identity (00:11:57)Exploration of whether businesses should choose strategies based on their identity or client needs.Adapting Strategies Over Time (00:12:19)Discussion on how businesses can evolve their strategies based on client feedback and market needs.Importance of Client Feedback (00:15:15)Encouragement for businesses to actively seek out and listen to client feelings and feedback.Asking the Right Questions (00:16:10)Chantal emphasizes the importance of asking clients how they feel about the service provided.Client Communication and Satisfaction (00:18:21)Discussion on the necessity of open communication to prevent client dissatisfaction and attrition.Podcast Episode TimestampsUnderstanding Client Feedback (00:20:26)Discusses the importance of direct communication with clients to gather constructive feedback.Client Advisory Services (00:21:31)Explores the shift of accounting firms towards client advisory services amidst automation.Applying Standout Strategies (00:22:20)Examines how firms can implement standout strategies while transitioning to new market sectors.Importance of Reputation Management (00:23:39)Highlights the significance of maintaining a firm's reputation over acquiring new clients.Identifying Key Strategies (00:24:16)Tom shares his thoughts on important strategies for growth and client management.Test Results and Insights (00:25:34)Discusses the results of a test taken by Tom, revealing insights on client expectations.Connection Over Certainty (00:26:00)Emphasizes the value of connection in client relationships over traditional certainty.Marketing with Connection (00:30:38)Explores how to leverage connection in marketing strategies for better client engagement.Strategy Before Tactics (00:36:47)Stresses the importance of establishing a strategy before diving into marketing tactics.Navigating New Business Challenges (00:38:17)Addresses the common challenges faced by new business owners in strategic planning.Niche Marketing Discussion (00:39:29)Exploration of the importance of defining a niche for accounting firms and overcoming the fear of exclusion.Specialization Benefits (00:40:11)Chantal shares how specialization leads to better client understanding and higher fees due to expertise.Client Relationships (00:41:12)The significance of emotional connections in client relationships and the advantages of working with specialists.Diverse Clientele (00:42:31)Discussion on how having a niche does not mean turning away all other business opportunities.Expanding Client Base (00:43:13)Chantal talks about flexibility in client selection while maintaining a focus on service-based businesses.Closing Remarks (00:44:03)Chantal expresses gratitude and reflects on the insights shared during the conversation.Book Promotion (00:44:24)Chantal discusses her books, "Magnetic Marketing" and "Stand Out Strategies," and where to find them.Practical Marketing Tips (00:45:29)Chantal provides actionable advice on integrating connection and certainty into marketing strategies.Final Thoughts (00:46:35)The host thanks Chantal and encourages listeners to visit their website for more resources.

“The good thing about retargeting is that most of the sales don't actually come from people clicking on the ad. They come from people seeing the ad and then either Googling the company or typing in the URL in the browser.” – Zaid Ammari The finer details of this episode:Marketing strategies focused on paid advertising and retargeting.The significance of understanding data analytics in marketing.Explanation of retargeting and its psychological impact on consumers.Common mistakes businesses make in retargeting campaigns.The importance of lead quality over quantity in marketing efforts.The role of Google Analytics 4 (GA4) in optimizing marketing strategies.Differences between hiring freelancers and agencies for marketing services.Effective communication and client management in marketing.The onboarding process for new clients and setting realistic expectations.Practical applications of retargeting across various platforms. Episode resources:Summit Virtual CFO by Anders website: https://www.summitcpa.net/Love our content? Sign up for our newsletter: https://www.summitcpa.net/summit-newsletterDigital Dollars and Cents: A Virtual CFO's Playbook to help Digital Companies Create a Financial Roadmap to Success, is now an audio book! Download it here: https://vcfo.summitcpa.net/ddcConnect with Zaid here: linkedin.com/in/zaidammariCheck out PPC Masterminds here: ppcmasterminds.comFree audit:  https://ppcmasterminds.com/free-google-ads-audit/Studio report mentioned in the show:https://lookerstudio.google.com/reporting/cc7472bf-0d0e-40d4-b275-22f1996ca339/page/VAzeB. Timestamps:Introduction to the Episode (00:00:00)Overview of the Creative Agency Success Show and its purpose for agency owners. Discussion of Different Mindsets (00:00:14)Jamie and Jody reflect on their different perspectives during the episode with Zaid. Topics Covered in the Episode (00:00:42)Jody highlights the focus on retargeting and its common mistakes discussed with Zaid. Guest Introduction (00:01:38)Jamie introduces Zaid Ammari, a marketing expert from PPC Masterminds. Zaid's Background (00:02:07)Zaid shares his journey from banking to becoming a paid marketing specialist. Client Targeting in Marketing (00:04:42)Jody asks about Zaid's target clients and his focus on paid search. Industries of Focus (00:05:28)Zaid discusses his typical clients, primarily in e-commerce and service industries. Introduction to Retargeting (00:06:24)Zaid explains retargeting and its psychological impact on potential customers. Cookies and Ad Competition (00:08:13)Discussion on how cookies compete in ad placements and auction dynamics. Dynamic Retargeting (00:09:10)Zaid describes how dynamic retargeting can tailor ads based on user behavior. Common Retargeting Mistakes (00:09:37)Zaid identifies mistakes businesses make by using the same ads repeatedly. Cost-Effectiveness of Retargeting (00:10:20)Zaid explains how retargeting can be one of the cheapest marketing methods. Tracking Conversions (00:11:04)Discussion on how to track conversions from retargeting ads. Using Data Analytics (00:12:02)Zaid emphasizes the importance of segmenting traffic for better insights. Variability Among Companies (00:14:03)Zaid discusses the vast differences in performance metrics across companies. Click-Through Rate Misconceptions (00:15:58)Zaid clarifies how high click-through rates can mislead about lead quality. Ad Copy Strategies (00:16:59)Zaid advises on including pricing in ad copy to filter out unqualified leads. Google's Role in Advertising (00:18:51)Zaid discusses how Google Ads operates and their profit motives. Outsourcing vs. In-House Marketing (00:19:47)Zaid shares insights on when companies should consider outsourcing their marketing. Agency vs. Freelancers (00:21:16)Discussion on the differences between hiring agencies and freelancers for marketing services. Onboarding Process (00:22:25)Overview of the onboarding process and its impact on effective marketing strategies. Revenue Tracking Audit (00:22:49)Importance of auditing revenue tracking for e-commerce and service companies. Estimating Costs (00:23:59)Using PPC calculators to estimate costs and expected sales conversions. Budget Planning (00:26:26)Advice on budgeting for marketing campaigns and managing client expectations. Communication with Clients (00:27:00)The significance of proactive communication in maintaining client relationships. Retargeting Ads (00:27:59)Discussion on the underutilization of retargeting ads in marketing strategies. Voice Recognition Marketing (00:28:38)Exploration of how voice recognition may influence targeted ads. Prime Day Product Searches (00:30:00)Personal anecdotes about product searches during Prime Day promotions. Final Thoughts and Resources (00:34:16)Wrap-up of the conversation and sharing of additional resources for listeners.

“We need to get the phrase ‘exit planning' out of our vocabulary. I like to call it business transition planning or transitioning you from wherever you are today to wherever you want to be.” – Adam  The finer details of this episode:Importance of fiduciary responsibility in financial planning.Relationship dynamics between financial advisors and CPAs.Challenges and implications of fiduciary principles for clients.The significance of being a fee-only financial advisor to minimize conflicts of interest.Strategies for young CPAs to build relationships with financial advisors.The role of transparency and communication in investment strategies.Evolving responsibilities of CPAs in the financial advisory landscape.Emotional aspects of financial decision-making and their impact on clients.Importance of having a clear financial plan and regular assessments.Educational resources and strategies for clients to enhance financial understanding. Episode resources:Summit Virtual CFO by Anders website: https://www.summitcpa.net/Email us with questions or if you'd like to be a guest on the show: youngcpasuccessshow@anderscpa.comWe're hiring! Check out our open positions: https://www.summitcpa.net/career-opportunitiesConnect with Adam here: https://www.linkedin.com/in/adamkoos/Check out Libertas Wealth Management here: https://www.libertaswealth.com/ Timestamps:Welcome to the Young CPA Success Show (00:00:00)Introduction to the podcast, focusing on career navigation for young accounting professionals. Understanding Fiduciary Responsibility (00:00:22)Discussion on the significance of fiduciary responsibility in financial planning and its implications for clients. The Importance of Being a Fiduciary (00:00:53)An expert explains why fiduciary status is crucial and the potential conflicts in the advisory industry. Questions to Ask Financial Advisors (00:02:37)Key questions for clients to ask financial advisors regarding fees and commissions to ensure fiduciary service. Conflicts of Interest in Financial Advisory (00:03:27)Exploration of how personal financial pressures can create conflicts of interest for financial advisors. What Defines a Fiduciary (00:04:14)Clarification on what being a fiduciary means and its importance in client-advisor relationships. Personal Experiences with Fiduciary Models (00:05:01)Discussion on personal experiences concerning fiduciary roles and the challenges faced in advisory firms. Navigating Non-Fee Only Relationships (00:06:15)Advice on how to engage with non-fee only advisors while maintaining respect and safety. Judging Character and Ethics (00:07:11)The importance of assessing moral and ethical standards when choosing a financial advisor. Building Portfolios and Ethical Considerations (00:09:04)Discussion on portfolio management and the ethical implications of investment choices. Understanding Red Flags in Portfolios (00:11:19)Identifying potential red flags in investment portfolios that may indicate conflicts of interest. The Role of CPAs in Financial Planning (00:12:17)Exploring the need for better communication between CPAs and financial advisors for effective planning. Venn Diagram of CPA and Advisor Roles (00:14:01)Illustrating the overlap of roles between CPAs and financial advisors in client financial planning. The Importance of Dialogue in Financial Planning (00:15:14)Emphasizing the need for ongoing conversations between CPAs and financial advisors for better outcomes. Fee Structures and Mutual Funds (00:15:34)Discussion on the implications of mutual fund fees and the importance of transparency in financial planning. Philosophical Views on Investment Choices (00:17:12)Sharing personal investment philosophies and the preference for ETFs over mutual funds in practice. Building Relationships with CFPs (00:17:28)Discusses the importance of young professionals developing relationships with Certified Financial Planners (CFPs). Navigating Financial Advisor Prospects (00:18:23)Advice on being selective with financial advisor outreach and building meaningful connections. Finding the Right Financial Partner (00:19:08)Emphasizes the need to choose trusted financial advisors over casting a wide net for referrals. The Exit Planning Institute (00:20:04)Recommends the Exit Planning Institute for networking with qualified financial professionals. Understanding Roles in Advisory (00:20:48)Clarifies the distinct roles of CPAs, financial advisors, and other professionals in business planning. Importance of Questionnaires (00:21:29)Suggests using detailed questionnaires to foster understanding and trust between financial professionals. Transitioning Businesses (00:22:17)Discusses the value of early stakeholder involvement in business transition planning. Reframing Exit Planning (00:23:06)Proposes renaming 'exit planning' to 'business transition planning' for a broader perspective. Enhancing Business Value (00:23:59)Explains how proper planning increases a business's enterprise value and operational efficiency. Avoiding Last-Minute Sales (00:24:34)Warns against procrastination in planning to avoid rushed sales or dissolutions. Creating Legacy Businesses (00:26:05)Encourages building businesses that can sustain income and value over time, regardless of sale. Collaborative Conversations (00:26:28)Highlights the benefits of gathering diverse stakeholders for productive discussions. Delaware Statutory Trusts (00:27:12)Introduces DSTs as a strategy for managing real estate investments and deferring taxes. Tax Strategies and Investments (00:30:07)Discusses the importance of long-term tax strategies over short-term tax minimization. Holistic Tax Loss Harvesting (00:32:00)Explains a strategy for tax loss harvesting while maintaining investment exposure. Understanding Concentrated Stock Positions (00:33:46)Discussion on the emotional and financial risks of holding onto highly appreciated stock. Emotional Decision-Making in Finance (00:36:15)Exploration of how emotions impact investment decisions and market behavior. The Importance of Education in Financial Planning (00:38:12)Emphasizing the need for client education and analogies to bridge understanding gaps. Emotional vs. Financial Decisions (00:39:48)Balancing emotional comfort with sound financial planning in client discussions. Client Engagement Strategies (00:40:31)Suggestions for actionable plans to enhance client relationships and decision-making. Connecting with Clients on Emotional Levels (00:41:05)Discussion on the significance of understanding clients' emotional ties to their businesses. Final Thoughts and Future Connections (00:46:03)Wrap-up conversation reflecting on ongoing education and future webinars to assist clients.

"As an owner of a business, it's really nice to have control, knowing what's coming in, what's going out, and how much cash I have." -Adam HaleSummary:In this episode of the Modern CPA Success Show, hosts Tom and Adam discuss their firm's cash flow management service. They highlight the critical role of cash flow in business health, distinguishing it from financial forecasting. Their service includes a 13-week cash flow forecast, regular cash flow meetings, and detailed tracking of accounts receivable and payable. Emphasis is placed on the importance of reconciling bank accounts, maintaining communication, and ensuring accountability. The episode underscores how these practices help business owners stay informed, manage expenses, and make proactive financial decisions.Finer details of this episode:Importance of cash flow for businessesDistinction between financial forecasting and cash flow managementOverview of the cash flow management service offered by the firmBenefits of regular cash flow meetings for business ownersProcess of tracking cash inflows and outflowsRole of bank account reconciliation in cash flow managementStructure and efficiency of cash flow meetingsImportance of communication and accountability in financial processesBest practices for handling invoices and paymentsProactive approach to collections and managing outstanding invoicesEpisode resources:● Summit Virtual CFO by Anders website: https://www.summitcpa.net/● If you have questions or would like to be a guest on the show, email us at mcpasuccessshow@anderscpa.com● Check out the Virtual CFO Playbook Course: https://vcfoplaybook.summitcpa.net/Timestamps:Introduction to the Podcast (00:00:00)  The host introduces the Modern CPA Success Show and its mission to support accounting firms.Discussion on Cash Flow Service (00:00:22)  Tom and Adam begin discussing the cash flow service offered by their firm.Importance of Cash Flow (00:00:35)  Adam emphasizes the critical nature of cash flow for business survival and its management.Distinction Between Cash Flow Services (00:01:01)  Adam explains the difference between financial forecasting and the cash flow management service.Overview of Cash Flow Management (00:01:56)  Adam discusses the detailed aspects of cash flow management, including tracking income and expenses.Weekly Cash Flow Meetings (00:02:35)  Tom highlights the value of weekly meetings for business owners to monitor cash flow.Bill Payment Process (00:03:16)  Adam discusses the bill payment process and the importance of client oversight.Clarification During Meetings (00:05:24)  Tom and Adam talk about the benefits of asking questions during cash flow meetings for clarity.Meeting Duration and Frequency (00:06:33)  The speakers outline the typical duration of cash flow meetings and their frequency.Best Practices for Invoice Management (00:07:51)  Tom emphasizes the importance of using a centralized system for managing invoices.Accountability in Collections (00:08:38)  Adam stresses the need for accountability in following up on overdue payments.Preparation for Cash Flow Meetings (00:09:36)  Adam explains the importance of preparation and reconciliation before meetings.Maintaining the 13-Week Cash Flow Forecast (00:10:21)  Tom discusses the critical nature of maintaining a 13-week cash flow forecast for business planning.Conclusion and Client Dependency (00:10:51)  The importance of the cash flow service in building client relationships is highlighted.

“We try to help the sellers understand what the buyer's long-term vision is, what changes they expect to make, and over what period of time, because all of these things have implications on the business but also on emotions.” – Jonathan Baker The finer details of this episode:Overview of mergers and acquisitions (M&A) in the creative agency sector.Importance of preparation for agency owners considering M&A.Insights on valuation factors influencing agency sales.Discussion on the current M&A landscape and market trends.The significance of maintaining clean financial records for M&A readiness.Exploration of deal structures and their implications, including Employee Stock Ownership Plans (ESOPs).The role of agency owners post-acquisition and the need for clear communication with buyers.Timing considerations for initiating the M&A process.The impact of economic changes on agency valuations and buyer interest.Recommendations for agency owners to proactively prepare for potential sales. Episode resources:Summit Virtual CFO by Anders website: https://www.summitcpa.net/Love our content? Sign up for our newsletter: https://www.summitcpa.net/summit-newsletterDigital Dollars and Cents: A Virtual CFO's Playbook to help Digital Companies Create a Financial Roadmap to Success, is now an audio book! Download it here: https://vcfo.summitcpa.net/ddcConnect with Jonathan here: https://www.linkedin.com/in/jonathandavidbaker/Check out Punctuation here: https://punctuation.com/ Timestamps: Welcome to the Creative Agency Success Show (00:00:00)Introduction to the podcast's purpose and focus on agency owners looking to scale. Discussion on M&A Preparation (00:00:15)Insights from Jonathan Baker about the importance of preparation for mergers and acquisitions. M&A Landscape Insights (00:00:39)Hannah reflects on the evolving trends in the M&A landscape and its implications for clients. Importance of Understanding M&A (00:01:13)Discussion on how understanding the M&A process can aid clients in their decision-making. Preparation Equals Easier Transition (00:01:39)Jimmy emphasizes that being well-prepared leads to a smoother M&A process and better outcomes. Introduction of Jonathan Baker (00:02:52)Jonathan Baker shares his background and expertise in helping firms prepare for M&A. Jonathan's M&A Journey (00:04:07)Jonathan recounts his personal experience with M&A, highlighting its complexities and emotional aspects. Valuation Nuances in M&A (00:06:19)Discussion on non-financial factors influencing valuation in the M&A process. Timing for M&A Conversations (00:07:51)Jonathan advises when clients should start preparing for M&A, ideally 3-4 years in advance. Post-Sale Involvement (00:09:22)Exploration of the buyer's perspective on post-sale involvement and its implications for sellers. Preventative Maintenance in M&A (00:11:33)Strategies to help owners navigate the transition and maintain business integrity post-acquisition. Deal Structure Non-Negotiables (00:14:01)Jonathan outlines his strong recommendations against certain deal structures, particularly ESOPs. Understanding ESOP Risks (00:15:07)Discussion on the potential pitfalls of employee stock ownership plans (ESOPs) in M&A. Navigating ESOP to M&A (00:18:01)Jonathan shares the challenges and processes of transitioning from an ESOP to an M&A deal. Preparing for M&A (00:19:11)Advice on steps companies should take to prepare for a potential acquisition. Importance of Accurate Financials (00:21:20)Emphasis on maintaining clean financials to facilitate smoother due diligence during M&A. Understanding Accrual Basis Accounting (00:22:01)Importance of running financials on an accrual basis for effective M&A preparation. Trends in M&A Post-COVID (00:22:57)Discussion on inflated valuations post-COVID and current market dynamics affecting M&A. Current Market Conditions for Sellers (00:24:24)Analysis of the current M&A landscape and advice for potential sellers. The COVID Boom and M&A Opportunities (00:24:49)Reflections on the opportunities presented during the COVID boom for agencies. Fun Question About Brewery Towns (00:25:17)A light-hearted discussion on top microbrewery towns in the U.S. Cultural Significance of Local Breweries (00:26:26)Exploration of how local breweries reflect community identity and culture. Contacting Jonathan for M&A Insights (00:27:54)Information on how listeners can reach out for M&A advice and brewery recommendations. Conclusion of the Episode (00:28:05)Wrap-up of the episode and appreciation for Jonathan's insights on M&A.

“You have to demonstrate that you care—not only to those whom you're working for but also to the clients and customers that you work with. Every customer, every client, has to think that they are your priority.” – John Scott The finer details of this episode:Journey of young accounting professionals in establishing their careers.Identifying and demonstrating interest in a specific niche within accounting.Role of mentorship in career development and guidance.Significance of effective communication skills in client relationships and teamwork.Strategies for building strong client relationships and understanding client needs.Value of asking questions and seeking clarification to enhance understanding Learning from mistakes as a crucial part of professional development.Proactive engagement in projects and responsibilities to build trust and expertise.Continuous learning and self-assessment to align with career advancement goals.Balancing opportunities with personal limits to maintain a manageable workload. Episode resources:Summit Virtual CFO by Anders website: https://www.summitcpa.net/Email us with questions or if you'd like to be a guest on the show: youngcpasuccessshow@anderscpa.comWe're hiring! Check out our open positions: https://www.summitcpa.net/career-opportunitiesConnect with John here: https://www.linkedin.com/in/john-c-scott-cpa/Check out Anders here: https://anderscpa.com/ Timestamps:Welcome and Introduction (00:00:00)The host welcomes listeners and introduces the podcast's focus on young accounting professionals. Finding Your Niche (00:00:23)Discussion on how young CPAs can establish themselves as subject matter experts in their firms. Demonstrating Interest (00:01:28)Insights on how young professionals can show interest in their career paths. Learning from Experience (00:02:06)Reflecting on early career experiences and the importance of mentorship. Taking Notes (00:03:00)Emphasizing the necessity of taking notes during meetings to retain information. Client Prioritization (00:04:00)The importance of making clients feel prioritized and valued in service roles. Being Present (00:06:10)Discussing the significance of being fully present during client interactions. Learning from Mistakes (00:08:00)The value of asking questions and learning from early career mistakes. Asking Questions (00:09:00)Encouragement for young professionals to ask questions for better understanding. Understanding Financial Statements (00:12:00)The importance of analyzing financial statements for trends and insights. Telling the Financial Story (00:13:33)Discussing how to effectively communicate financial information to clients. Advisory Skills (00:14:40)Highlighting the shift from technical skills to advisory roles in accounting. Practice and Repetition (00:14:52)The need for practice and learning through trial and error in developing skills. Aligning Interests with Expertise (00:16:00)Advice on following personal interests to develop expertise in a specific area. Constructive Debates (00:18:36)The benefits of engaging in constructive debates to enhance understanding and perspectives. Effective Communication with Clients (00:19:45)Importance of understanding client communication styles to build effective relationships. Being Available for Opportunities (00:21:11)Encouragement for less experienced professionals to show interest and be available for new projects. Continuous Improvement and Comfort Zone (00:22:43)Advice on pushing oneself beyond comfort zones to progress in career and expertise. Reading Client-Relevant Books (00:23:08)Value of reading materials that clients engage with to enhance understanding and communication. Demonstrating Care for Clients (00:23:50)Emphasizing the importance of giving clients undivided attention to show genuine care. Saying Yes to Opportunities (00:24:17)Encouragement to accept additional responsibilities to foster career growth. Managing Workload and Delegation (00:25:09)Advice on assessing current tasks to allow for new opportunities without overloading. Learning from Client Interactions (00:26:08)The value of participating in discussions with successful business owners for professional growth. Trust and Responsibility in Delegation (00:27:00)Building trust through delegation and training to empower less experienced staff. Navigating Career Advancement Conversations (00:34:26)Strategies for discussing career advancement respectfully with partners in the firm. Establishing Control Over Career Progression (00:35:35)Importance of having a clear plan and goals to navigate career advancement. Addressing Impostor Syndrome (00:37:15)Managing fears regarding career paths and aligning expectations with supervisors. Understanding Job Responsibilities (00:38:10)Recognizing the differences in responsibilities at various career levels to ensure alignment. Travel Experiences (00:39:27)Discussion about personal travel experiences, highlighting favorite destinations and memorable moments. Italy Trip (00:39:55)Speaker shares insights on their recent trip to Italy, emphasizing beautiful scenery and local dining. Travel Delays (00:41:11)Narrative about flight delays affecting travel plans and the resulting hectic schedule. Conference Speaking Slot (00:41:46)Speaker discusses confusion over speaking schedule at a conference, leading to an unexpected situation. French Air Traffic Incident (00:42:52)Speaker reminisces about a past travel incident involving flight delays due to a strike in France. Connecting with John (00:43:45)Information on how listeners can reach out to John for advice and mentorship. Book Publication (00:45:05)Announcement of John's newly published book, "Judicial Dollars and Cents," available on Kindle.

"If you want to understand your pricing, I need to know what your service packages are. If you want to understand how you're going to onboard a client, I need to know what your service package is." - Adam HaleThe finer details of this episode:● Importance of service packages for accounting firms, focusing on clarity in offerings, pricing, and alignment with target client segments to enhance relevance and value.● Structuring service packages using a "small, medium, large" model to cater to different client needs, manage resources, and improve client onboarding and communication.●Overcoming challenges in creating service packages, including transitioning existing clients, ensuring pricing transparency, and utilizing technology like AI tools for development. Episode resources:● Summit Virtual CFO by Anders website: https://www.summitcpa.net/● If you have questions or would like to be a guest on the show, email us at mcpasuccessshow@anderscpa.com● Check out the Virtual CFO Playbook Course: https://vcfoplaybook.summitcpa.net/ TimestampsWelcome to the Modern CPA Success Show (00:00:00)Introduction to the podcast's mission and focus on innovative accounting insights.Discussion on Service Packages (00:00:22)Tom and Adam explain the importance of service packages for CAS and CFO services.Clarity in Deliverables (00:00:50)Emphasis on the need for clarity in service delivery through defined service packages.Marketing and Client Attraction (00:01:51)Aligning service packages with target client demographics for effective marketing.Access and Time Considerations (00:02:46)Discussion on the importance of access frequency in determining service package pricing.Team Understanding of Packages (00:04:48)How defined packages help team members understand client onboarding and service delivery.Pricing and Scope Management (00:05:04)The role of service packages in managing client expectations and pricing structures.Refining Onboarding Processes (00:06:40)Importance of revisiting service packages during onboarding to clarify responsibilities.Promoting the Virtual CFO Playbook (00:07:02)Advertisement for the Virtual CFO Playbook and its benefits for accounting firms.Psychology of Package Creation (00:07:44)Discussion on why many firms hesitate to create service packages and how to overcome this.Overcoming Writer's Block (00:08:39)Tom and Adam share insights on getting started with service package development.Client-Centric Package Development (00:10:05)Strategies for brainstorming and organizing service packages based on client needs.Learning from Other Firms (00:11:05)Encouragement to review other firms' packages for inspiration without copying directly.Transitioning to New Packages (00:12:11)Advice on implementing new service packages without alienating existing clients.Testing New Packages (00:12:41)The importance of prospectively evaluating service packages and client relationships.Initial Pricing Transparency (00:13:52)Benefits of presenting clear pricing options during the initial client call.Utilizing AI in Package Development (00:16:13)Exploration of using AI tools to brainstorm and refine service packages.Continuous Package Improvement (00:16:47)Encouragement to regularly update service packages to meet evolving client needs.Closing Remarks (00:17:04)Final thoughts on the importance of service packages and an invitation for further discussion.

“It's never too early to start planning because you never know when that end is going to be. Operate with optimism. There's a lot of activity that's really unprecedented in the industry right now, and I think for the years ahead, it's going to be very good for agency owners who build really solid, predictable, nice operating practices.” – Phil Daniels  The finer details of this episode:Overview of mergers and acquisitions (M&A) in the agency sector.Insights on exit readiness for agency owners.Discussion of motivations for agency owners considering a sale.Current trends in the M&A market and their implications.Importance of a strong management team in enhancing agency value.Evolving dynamics of purchase agreements and deal structures.The role of private equity in the agency landscape and common misconceptions.Strategies for presenting a compelling narrative to potential buyers.Importance of early planning and preparation for agency sales.Common pitfalls during the due diligence process and how to avoid them. Episode resources:Summit Virtual CFO by Anders website: https://www.summitcpa.net/Love our content? Sign up for our newsletter: https://www.summitcpa.net/summit-newsletterDigital Dollars and Cents: A Virtual CFO's Playbook to help Digital Companies Create a Financial Roadmap to Success, is now an audio book! Download it here: https://vcfo.summitcpa.net/ddcConnect with Phil here: https://www.linkedin.com/in/phillipdaniels/Check out Season Advisors here: https://seasonadvisors.com/ Timestamps:Welcome to the Show (00:00:00)Introduction to the "Creative Agency Success Show" and its focus on helping agency owners. Discussion of Topics (00:00:14)Overview of the episode's topics: mergers & acquisitions and basketball, highlighting guest Phil Daniels. Phil Daniels Introduction (00:01:20)Phil shares his background in M&A and agency ownership, setting the stage for his insights. Early Career in M&A (00:01:35)Phil discusses starting his career at JP Morgan, focusing on acquiring and integrating businesses. Transition to Agency Ownership (00:02:20)Phil recounts his journey to starting his own agency, motivated by low barriers to entry. Agency Sales Experience (00:03:22)Phil explains his experience with agency sales, emphasizing the emotional aspects of selling. Motivations for Selling (00:04:46)Phil explores various reasons agency owners consider selling, including burnout and lack of succession planning. Exit Readiness Concept (00:07:18)Phil introduces the idea of exit readiness, emphasizing the importance of preparation before selling. Trends in Purchase Agreements (00:09:34)Discussion on recent trends in M&A agreements, including structure and incentives for sellers. Incentivized Buyouts (00:10:57)Phil talks about the common structure of incentivized buyouts and the importance of owner involvement post-sale. Valuation Gaps in Sales (00:12:19)Challenges in aligning seller expectations with buyer valuations, and strategies to bridge gaps. Timing for Cleaning Up Books (00:15:11)Phil advises on the optimal timeline for preparing financials before selling an agency. M&A as a Marathon (00:16:39)Discussion on the lengthy and complex nature of the M&A process for agency owners. Private Equity Perspectives (00:17:18)Phil shares insights on agency attitudes toward private equity investments and their implications. Private Equity in Agency M&A (00:17:24)Discussion on the impact of private equity in agency valuations and the changing landscape of M&A. Understanding Buyer Types (00:18:09)Exploring different types of buyers, including private equity, family offices, and strategic buyers, and their implications. Owner Objectives and Planning (00:18:58)The importance of understanding owner objectives when considering potential buyers and planning for agency sales. Strategic Buyers vs. Financial Buyers (00:20:10)Ranking the desirability of strategic buyers over financial buyers in agency sales. Management Team Retention Strategies (00:21:39)Ways to incentivize management teams to stay through the transition during an agency sale. Common Due Diligence Pitfalls (00:22:50)Identifying key reasons why due diligence fails, focusing on net working capital and owner dependency. Phil's Experience as an NBA Ballboy (00:24:39)Phil shares memorable experiences from his time as a ballboy for the Indiana Pacers. Michael Jordan's Comeback Game (00:26:47)Phil recounts witnessing Michael Jordan's return to the NBA and the unforgettable moments that followed. Final Thoughts on M&A (00:33:30)Phil emphasizes optimism in the current M&A landscape for agency owners and shares contact information. Planning for Agency Sales (00:34:22)Phil emphasizes the importance of early planning for agency sales, as circumstances can change unexpectedly. Eliminating Add Backs (00:35:10)The discussion highlights the negative perception of add backs by investors and the benefits of clean financials. Importance of Due Diligence (00:35:15)Being prepared for due diligence can significantly impact sale outcomes and buyer confidence, according to the speakers. Long-term Selling Strategy (00:35:52)The speakers stress the need for a strategic approach to selling, rather than a rushed decision, to maximize value.

“One thing that I love so much about this firm is that you've got the resources and the leadership to back you up when it comes to trying something new.” – Trey Meier  The finer details of this episode:Current state of recruiting at Anders accounting firmFirm's growth and expansion beyond St. LouisStrategies for attracting entry-level and experienced professionalsImportance of company culture and professional development opportunitiesAdaptability to remote work and creating a welcoming environmentNetworking and relationship-building initiatives for young professionalsDifferences in recruiting strategies for various candidate experience levelsEmphasis on personal attention and treating employees as individualsUse of technology and innovative practices in recruitmentEncouragement for candidates to actively engage and advocate for themselves during the hiring process Episode resources:Summit Virtual CFO by Anders website: https://www.summitcpa.net/Email us with questions or if you'd like to be a guest on the show: youngcpasuccessshow@anderscpa.comWe're hiring! Check out our open positions: https://www.summitcpa.net/career-opportunitiesConnect with Trey here: https://anderscpa.com/team-member/trey-r-meier/Check out Anders here: https://anderscpa.com Timestamps:Welcome to the Young CPA Success Show (00:00:00)Introduction to the podcast and its purpose for young accounting professionals. Introduction of Guests (00:00:23)Joey welcomes Trey Meier from Anders Recruiting and discusses their long-awaited conversation. Firm's Growth and Culture (00:01:06)Trey shares insights on Anders' positive changes and culture during his five years with the firm. Recruiting Strategy Overview (00:01:43)Discussion on Anders' strategy to enhance its reputation and attract talent beyond St. Louis. Expanding Recruitment Efforts (00:02:29)Trey explains outreach to more universities and early engagement with students. Experiential vs. Campus Recruitment (00:04:44)Differentiating the experiential side of recruiting from university outreach efforts. Recruiting Strategies for Different Audiences (00:06:01)Trey discusses tailored approaches for recruiting entry-level and experienced professionals. Networking Importance (00:07:03)Highlighting the significance of networking for young professionals at Anders. Selling Points for Anders (00:09:44)Trey identifies the firm's unique culture and personal attention as key recruiting advantages. Work-Life Balance and Flexibility (00:11:06)Discussion on the firm's adaptation to flexible work environments and its benefits. Personal Experience with Hybrid Work (00:12:45)Joey shares a positive experience with Anders' hybrid work arrangements and technology. Welcoming Environment at Anders (00:14:08)Trey emphasizes the firm's commitment to making all employees feel valued and welcome. Adapting to Global Reach (00:15:11)Exploration of how Anders is adjusting internal practices for a broader, remote workforce. Recruiting Strategies and Brand Awareness (00:15:27)Discussion on expanding Anders' brand recognition beyond St. Louis through marketing partnerships. Adapting to Remote Work (00:15:59)Exploration of maintaining firm culture and engagement with remote employees through internal events. Learning and Pivoting (00:16:44)Emphasis on continuous learning and adapting recruiting strategies based on what works and what doesn't. Family Feel at Anders (00:17:30)Description of the supportive, family-like environment within the firm, fostering collaboration across teams. Leadership Engagement (00:18:21)Personal anecdote about feeling acknowledged by firm leadership, highlighting a unique company culture. Advice for College Graduates (00:20:04)Encouragement for college students to reach out and explore job opportunities actively. Importance of Outreach (00:21:10)Highlighting the necessity of direct communication with firms to understand their culture and opportunities. Advocating for Yourself (00:24:02)Discussion on the importance of candidates advocating for their needs during the job search process. Interviewing the Company (00:25:03)Encouragement for candidates to interview potential employers to ensure mutual fit. Networking and Building Connections (00:27:02)The significance of networking and maintaining relationships for future job opportunities. Current Hiring Opportunities (00:28:38)Overview of the firm's rapid growth and diverse hiring needs across multiple departments. Engagement with Anders (00:30:00)Encouragement for candidates to engage with the firm through social media and career pages for updates. Introduction to Partner Stories (00:30:51)Discussion on the success stories of new partners from non-traditional accounting backgrounds. Opportunities in the Firm (00:31:53)Emphasis on the vast opportunities available within the firm for various skill sets. Referrals and Networking (00:31:56)Importance of referrals and connecting with like-minded individuals for recruitment. Personal Interests Outside Work (00:32:25)Trey shares his hobbies, including sports and family activities outside of recruiting. Sports Culture in St. Louis (00:33:30)Conversation about St. Louis sports events and the firm's connection to local sports. Office Environment and Location (00:34:12)Discussion on the firm's modern office space and its proximity to sports venues. Flexibility in Work Locations (00:35:03)Overview of hybrid work options and the benefits of working from different office locations. Engaging with Recruiters (00:36:15)Encouragement for audience to connect with recruiters for networking and opportunities. Contacting Trey (00:36:38)Trey shares his availability and willingness to connect through various communication channels. Closing Remarks (00:37:34)Appreciation for Trey's contributions to recruitment and the firm's growth.

"They swapped out ‘accounting' for ‘advisory' in CAS, but I still believe it's 'client accounting and advisory services.' At scale, especially with small businesses, it's hard to separate the two. You need a foundational understanding of their accounting model to help architect it in a way that truly tells their story." – Adam Hale The finer details of this episode:The shift from compliance work to advisory roles in accounting.Differences between traditional accounting firm structures and mature CAS practices.Importance of leveraging resources and delegating tasks within accounting firms.Financial metrics and profitability considerations in CAS practices.The concept of selling access rather than time in service pricing.The role of regular meetings in managing client expectations and scope creep.Adoption of a corporate-like structure for improved efficiency and adaptability.The impact of a subscription model on client relationships and service delivery.Strategies for accounting firms to remain competitive in a changing industry.Episode resources:● Summit Virtual CFO by Anders website: https://www.summitcpa.net/● If you have questions or would like to be a guest on the show, email us at mcpasuccessshow@anderscpa.com● Check out the Virtual CFO Playbook Course: https://vcfoplaybook.summitcpa.net/ Timestamps:Welcome and Introduction (00:00:00)The host introduces the podcast and its mission to provide insights for accounting firms.Overview of CAS (00:00:22)Tom and Adam discuss Client Accounting Services (CAS) and advisory services, highlighting their significance.Defining CAS (00:00:46)Adam explains the evolution of CAS from "Client Accounting Services" to "Client Accounting and Advisory Services."Importance of Accounting in CAS (00:01:02)Adam emphasizes understanding accounting models for effective advisory services, especially for small businesses.Traditional vs. CAS Structures (00:01:52)Discussion on differences between traditional accounting firms and mature CAS practices, focusing on corporate structure.Leveraging Resources in CAS (00:02:06)Adam talks about the importance of leveraging resources and delegating tasks for scaling CAS practices.Transitioning from Traditional Models (00:03:29)Tom shares challenges faced by accounting firms transitioning from traditional models to more scalable structures.Financial Metrics in CAS (00:04:35)Adam discusses financial metrics, contrasting traditional firm profitability with CAS models and their structures.Understanding Profit Margins (00:06:19)Tom and Adam analyze profit margins in CAS compared to traditional firms, aiming for higher profitability.Building Client Relationships (00:09:24)Tom highlights the importance of long-term relationships with clients for smoother operations and better service.Delegation and Offshoring (00:10:06)Discussion on the necessity of delegating work and utilizing offshore teams to enhance efficiency.Measuring Performance in CAS (00:11:59)Adam explains the shift from traditional hourly metrics to responsibility-based performance measures in CAS.Book of Business Targets (00:12:57)Tom and Adam discuss the importance of setting clear book of business targets for team members.Compensation Structure in CAS (00:13:39)Adam outlines how compensation structures differ in CAS, focusing on book of business rather than hours worked.Efficiency Over Hours (00:16:32)Tom advocates for valuing efficiency and client satisfaction over the number of hours worked.Promoting the Virtual CFO Playbook (00:17:33)An unnamed speaker promotes a virtual CFO playbook aimed at helping firms scale and improve client experience.Selling Access in Advisory Services (00:18:30)Tom and Adam discuss the concept of selling access in high-level advisory services, shifting the value proposition.Access to Advisory Services (00:18:51)Discussion on the unpredictability of advisory work time and the subscription model for client access.Managing Client Expectations (00:19:41)Strategies for addressing scope creep through scheduled meetings and clear communication with clients.Rethinking Practice Structure (00:20:20)Encouragement to adopt innovative practices beyond traditional models for growth and efficiency.Corporate Structure in Accounting (00:20:31)Exploring the benefits of a corporate-like structure in accounting practices for better resource sharing.Closing Remarks and Resources (00:21:01)Invitation to visit the website for more tips on achieving success in modern CPA firms.

“I was stressed out, cranky, grouchy, and missing family events. That was the catalyst for me to figure out how to get Excel to do all the things I was doing manually.” – Jeff Leening  The finer details of this episode:Importance of Excel skills for young accounting professionalsGaps in Excel training within college education for accounting studentsPersonal experiences of speakers regarding Excel proficiency and trainingImplementation of Excel training programs in organizationsThe versatility of Excel in both professional and personal projectsStructure and content of comprehensive Excel training coursesThe impact of outdated methods in accounting practicesThe evolving role of technology and AI tools in accounting, including Excel Episode resources:Summit Virtual CFO by Anders website: https://www.summitcpa.net/Email us with questions or if you'd like to be a guest on the show: youngcpasuccessshow@anderscpa.comWe're hiring! Check out our open positions: https://www.summitcpa.net/career-opportunitiesConnect with Jeff here: https://www.linkedin.com/in/jefflenning/Check out Excel University here: https://www.excel-university.com/ Timestamps:Introduction to the Podcast (00:00:00)The hosts welcome listeners to "The Young CPA Success Show" and introduce the topic of Excel skills. Excel in Early Careers (00:00:22)Discussion on how college education often leaves graduates unprepared for Excel demands in accounting. Feedback from Employers (00:00:54)Employers express concerns about the Excel skills of recent graduates and the need for better training. Excel Training at Summit Virtual CFO (00:01:59)Insights into how Summit Virtual CFO addresses Excel skill gaps through dedicated training resources. Course Structure for Excel Training (00:03:19)An overview of the comprehensive six-course Excel training designed to prepare accounting professionals. Genesis of Excel Skills in Auditing (00:04:43)The importance of organizing data in audits and its relation to Excel skills developed during careers. Challenges of Legacy Workbooks (00:05:36)Discussion on the inefficiencies of using outdated Excel workbooks and the need for improvement. Importance of Continuous Improvement (00:06:48)The necessity of enhancing workbooks to reduce time spent on monthly closes and improve efficiency. Excel's Longevity in Business (00:09:57)Exploration of why Excel remains a dominant tool in business despite advancements in technology. Excel's Versatility Beyond Accounting (00:12:48)Personal anecdotes on using Excel for non-business projects, showcasing its broad applicability. Half-Marathon Training in Excel (00:14:00)Discussion on planning personal projects like training schedules and vacations using Excel. First Half-Marathon Experience (00:15:24)Speaker shares their experience of completing their first half-marathon and the challenges faced. Maintaining Training Structure (00:16:13)Importance of having structured training plans to stay motivated and consistent in exercise routines. Here are the extracted timestamps and their titles in chronological order: Running Routine and Energy Boost (00:17:48)Discussion on morning runs and their impact on daily energy levels. Exercise and Career Structure (00:19:10)Connecting running routines to creating structure in professional engagements. Discipline and Goal Setting (00:20:16)The importance of discipline, planning, and setting goals in both running and career. Value of Preparation Over the Race (00:20:21)Emphasizing that the real value lies in preparation, not just completing the race. Community Support in Races (00:22:50)Highlighting the joy and community support experienced during marathons. Excel University Overview (00:23:59)Introduction to Excel University and its development over the past 12 years. CPE Credits and Practical Skills (00:26:10)Importance of practical skills in CPE courses for CPAs. Evolution of CPE Training (00:27:37)Discussion on the shift from traditional CPE classes to modern, interactive formats. Course Structure and Support (00:28:35)Overview of the blended learning approach in Excel courses, combining videos and live support. Future of Excel with AI Integration (00:32:47)Predictions on how Excel will evolve with AI technologies and user support features. Microsoft Copilot Introduction (00:34:23)Exploration of Microsoft Copilot as a native AI tool enhancing user experience in Excel. Running and Music Preferences (00:35:59)Discussion about music and nature during running, highlighting personal preferences. Engaging the Mind While Running (00:37:05)Speakers talk about using running time to think and develop ideas. Favorite Podcasts (00:39:13)Introduction of the "All In" podcast as a new favorite for engaging discussions. Excel University Resources (00:40:26)Information about Excel University courses and a free CPE course for CPAs.

“If you're only working in the business, you're doing it wrong. Cut your activities in half. You have to free up time to think about the business, to work on the business.” – Simon SeverinoThe finer details of this episode:• Transition from traditional tax-based practices to advisory-oriented services in accounting.• Challenges faced by accounting firms in defining and marketing their services.• Importance of understanding client needs and delivering tailored solutions.• Decoupling time from value in professional services to enhance profitability.• Strategies for effectively packaging and pricing advisory services.• The role of marketing in differentiating accounting firms in a competitive landscape.• Implementing structured approaches like "Strategy Sprints" for business growth.• Identifying operational constraints and improving processes for better service delivery.• Building long-term client relationships to foster loyalty and satisfaction.• Emphasizing the need for continuous improvement and agile responses to market demands.Episode resources:● Summit Virtual CFO by Anders website: https://www.summitcpa.net/● If you have questions or would like to be a guest on the show, email us at mcpasuccessshow@anderscpa.com● Check out the Virtual CFO Playbook Course: https://vcfoplaybook.summitcpa.net/● Check out Strategy Sprints here: https://www.strategysprints.com/Timestamps:Introduction to the Podcast (00:00:00)Overview of the podcast's mission to provide insights on accounting firms' growth and innovation.Guest Introduction (00:00:22)Co-host introduces Simon Severino, highlighting his expertise and the challenges accounting firms face.Simon's Background (00:01:29)Simon shares his non-linear career path, emphasizing his passion for market strategy and problem-solving.Transitioning to Advisory Services (00:03:09)Discussion on the shift from tax-based practices to advisory services in accounting firms.Decoupling Time from Value (00:05:14)Simon explains the importance of separating time spent from the value delivered to clients.Client Example: Cash Flow Reporting (00:06:15)Illustration of how an accounting firm expanded services and improved profitability through automation.Challenges in Changing Mindsets (00:08:54)Discussion on the difficulty accountants face in shifting their perception of time-based billing.High Margins of Advisory Services (00:09:31)Simon highlights the significant profit margins in advisory services compared to traditional services.Understanding Entrepreneurial Needs (00:10:51)Exploration of what entrepreneurs truly need from their accounting services and reports.Importance of Advisory in Cash Flow (00:12:40)Discussion on the necessity of advisory services in helping clients interpret cash flow reports.Strategic Value of Consulting (00:13:37)Simon emphasizes the value of being a sparring partner for clients in decision-making.Subscription-Based Services (00:14:45)Discussion on how subscription models can help disconnect time from billing in professional services.Impact of AI on Professional Services (00:15:58)Simon discusses the challenges posed by AI in the financial services sector and competition.Marketing on LinkedIn (00:17:16)Emphasis on the importance of LinkedIn for professional services and strategies to gain mindshare.Mindshare and Marketing Strategies (00:19:59)Simon discusses the need for consistent marketing efforts to stay top of mind with clients.Common Marketing Mistakes (00:20:51)Simon identifies common pitfalls accounting professionals face when starting their marketing efforts.Responsibility for Marketing (00:21:46)Discussion on the necessity of assigning dedicated roles for marketing within accounting firms.Introduction to Strategy Sprints (00:22:50)Discussion on the importance of external presence in accounting firms.Client Satisfaction and Acquisition (00:22:59)The roles of team members in ensuring client satisfaction and bringing in new clients.Defining Strategy Sprints (00:23:14)Overview of what a strategy sprint entails and its focus on key activities.Creating Client Flywheels (00:23:52)Strategies for generating more work from existing clients through enthusiastic moments.Distribution Flywheels (00:25:06)Methods for creating compelling content and building a pipeline of ideal clients.Defining the Ideal Client (00:26:08)Importance of identifying and sticking to an ideal client profile for long-term success.Measurement in Strategy Sprints (00:27:17)The significance of measuring activities weekly to determine effectiveness.Reclaiming Time (00:28:17)How identifying ineffective activities can help reclaim valuable time in business operations.Focus Card Metrics (00:28:40)Using the focus card to track three key metrics every week for better results.Scientific Approach to Business Growth (00:29:55)Implementing a scientific method for testing and validating business strategies.Client Onboarding and Constraints (00:31:07)Identifying constraints in professional services to improve overall throughput.Addressing Service Offerings (00:33:19)Discussion on the challenges of adding new services and recognizing value in advisory roles.Pricing and Packaging Services (00:34:32)Strategies for increasing service pricing and developing attractive packages.Learning from Other Industries (00:36:08)Insights on how professional services can benefit from models used in franchising.Creating a Scalable Business Model (00:38:00)Transforming a consultancy into a scalable model by professionalizing brand and processes.Resources for Further Learning (00:40:32)Information on where to find tools and resources for implementing strategy sprints.Main Takeaway (00:42:20)The importance of cutting activities in half to free up time for strategic thinking.

“Having a strong forecasting process really should make it easier to eliminate things—like knowing if the seventh project is really one of the top seven things we need to do to hit our goals.” – Tom Wadelton “When you build a budget, you're creating a plan for the next year, and then things happen. No one really expects a pandemic to happen, but things do happen. The question is, how do you adjust?” – Jamie Nau The finer details of this episode:Importance of dynamic forecasting over static budgetingClient's growth journey and challenges during the pandemicCentralized vs. decentralized decision-making in budgetingRegular conversations about forecasts for informed decision-makingAdapting to new realities and aligning hiring with growth goalsChanges in sales leadership and their impact on business developmentRole of pipeline meetings in assessing demand and resource allocationTransitioning from fractional CFO services to full-time financial leadershipStrategies for prioritizing projects and initiativesReflecting on achievements and the evolution of business practices over time Episode resources:Summit Virtual CFO by Anders website: https://www.summitcpa.net/Email us with questions or if you'd like to be a guest on the show: youngcpasuccessshow@anderscpa.comWe're hiring! Check out our open positions: https://www.summitcpa.net/career-opportunitiesCheck out the 2019 episode here: https://www.summitcpa.net/blog/forecasting-for-growth Timestamps:Introduction to the Episode (00:00:00)The host welcomes listeners to the Creative Agency Success Show and sets the context for the episode. Revisiting 2019 (00:00:14)Jamie introduces the "fast forward" episode, referencing a previous discussion about a client's growth in 2019. Client's Growth Overview (00:01:03)Tom provides a recap of the client's financial growth goals and challenges faced in 2019. Impact of the Pandemic (00:02:16)Discussion on how the pandemic affected the client's growth trajectory and forecasting adjustments. Forecasting vs. Budgeting (00:02:31)Jamie emphasizes the importance of dynamic forecasting over static budgeting in uncertain times. Decentralization Mistakes (00:03:16)Tom shares how decentralizing budgeting decisions led to frustration during the pandemic. Importance of Regular Forecast Updates (00:04:02)Discussion on how frequent updates to forecasts can guide business decisions amidst unexpected changes. Centralized Forecasting Lessons (00:05:35)Tom explains the shift to centralized forecasting for better management of growth and hiring. Sales Leadership Changes (00:06:28)The introduction of a new sales leader and their impact on the company's growth strategy. Pipeline Meetings and Forecasting (00:10:02)Jamie discusses the connection between pipeline meetings and forecasting for effective decision-making. Current Status of the Client (00:10:49)Tom provides an update on the client's growth, reaching $23 million by late 2023. Triggers for Hiring a Full-Time CFO (00:11:48)Discussion on indicators that suggest a business needs to transition from fractional to full-time financial leadership. Complexity in Business Decisions (00:12:43)Jamie highlights how increasing complexity in business operations signals the need for dedicated financial expertise. Key Takeaways for Business Owners (00:14:17)Tom shares two crucial lessons from the client's journey: the importance of dynamic forecasting and identifying barriers to growth. The Importance of Focus (00:17:16)Discussion on prioritizing key tasks over numerous less impactful ones for better productivity. Reflecting on Accomplishments (00:17:45)Emphasis on reviewing past achievements to understand growth and progress made over the year. The Elephant Analogy (00:18:15)Using the metaphor of "eating an elephant" to illustrate the need for incremental progress in projects. Challenges in Prioritization (00:18:23)Struggles in limiting focus to essential tasks during planning meetings, despite wanting to add more. Role of Strong Forecasting (00:18:42)How effective forecasting aids in prioritizing projects aligned with top goals, simplifying decision-making. Celebrating Five Years of Podcasting (00:19:01)Reflection on the journey of podcasting over five years and the growth experienced during that time. Nostalgia and Reflection (00:19:18)Revisiting past discussions to appreciate how perspectives and insights have evolved over the years.

“Finding a good mentor can be hard, but it is such a big deal. My internship opened my eyes to all the possibilities the industry has to offer.” – Chayton Farlee  The finer details of this episode:The need for modernizing content delivery methods in the accounting profession.The potential of using platforms like TikTok and LinkedIn to engage younger audiences.The importance of mentorship and networking for accounting students.The challenges faced by students in understanding the diverse career paths in accounting.The significance of practical experience and internships in preparing for accounting careers.The role of storytelling in reshaping how accounting is viewed by prospective students.The importance of early outreach to students to highlight opportunities in accounting. Episode resources:Summit Virtual CFO by Anders website: https://www.summitcpa.net/Email us with questions or if you'd like to be a guest on the show: youngcpasuccessshow@anderscpa.comWe're hiring! Check out our open positions: https://www.summitcpa.net/career-opportunitiesConnect with Chayton here: https://www.linkedin.com/in/chaytonfarlee/ Timestamps:Introduction to the Podcast (00:00:00)The host welcomes listeners and outlines the podcast's purpose for young accounting professionals. Need for Content Change (00:00:23)Joey discusses the necessity to adapt their content creation strategy, suggesting a TikTok account. Mixed Feelings About TikTok (00:00:37)Hannah shares her apprehensions about using TikTok while acknowledging its potential to engage younger audiences. Old Guys at the Party (00:01:00)Joey compares their TikTok venture to being the older alumni at a college party, emphasizing the importance of relevance. Responsibility to the Next Generation (00:01:54)Joey reflects on the responsibility to disseminate information for the next generation entering the accounting field. Influence of TikTok (00:02:23)Hannah acknowledges TikTok's influence and the importance of storytelling in reaching audiences. Potential LinkedIn Challenge (00:03:42)Joey anticipates a LinkedIn challenge from Producer Rob to enhance their professional networking. Building Professional Relationships (00:04:57)Joey discusses the significance of cultivating professional connections and shares insights from Jaden on effective networking. Chayton Farlee's Introduction (00:06:10)The speakers introduce Chayton Farley, an accounting student, and invite him to share his background. Chayton's Journey into Accounting (00:06:33)Chayton recounts his journey into accounting, emphasizing his experiences during COVID and discovering his passion for the field. Influence of Podcasts (00:08:54)Chayton discusses how listening to accounting podcasts helped him understand the profession beyond classroom teachings. Rebranding the Accounting Profession (00:16:02)Chayton advocates for rebranding accounting to highlight its value-adding aspects beyond compliance and traditional roles. Experiences from an Internship (00:20:39)The conversation shifts to Chayton's current internship, exploring the differences between classroom learning and practical experience. Chayton's Internship Experience (00:20:42)Chayton shares insights about his internship, highlighting mentorship and practical experience with tax returns and firm management software. Understanding Operations in Accounting (00:22:29)Discussion on the importance of operations within accounting firms, often overlooked in traditional education. Learning About Budgeting (00:23:33)Joey emphasizes the significance of understanding budgeting in accounting, a concept rarely taught in school. The Value of Mentorship (00:26:07)Hannah reflects on the importance of mentorship, sharing her positive internship experience and its impact on her career. Networking on LinkedIn (00:27:40)Discussion on the benefits of networking on LinkedIn, including finding mentors and job opportunities. Building Relationships over Transactions (00:34:08)Chayton stresses the importance of cultivating genuine relationships rather than viewing networking as a transactional process. Professors' Role in Student Networking (00:36:19)Chayton suggests that professors should be more active on LinkedIn to help students connect with industry professionals. Challenges of Content Creation on TikTok (00:38:15)Joey discusses the difficulties accountants face in creating concise, engaging content on platforms like TikTok. The Need for Quality Content (00:41:20)Joey expresses concerns about the quality of accounting information shared on TikTok. Discussion on TikTok Strategy (00:42:00)The group discusses the potential of starting a TikTok account for engaging younger audiences. Importance of Information Dissemination (00:42:10)Joey emphasizes the responsibility of professionals to share digestible information with students. Daily TikTok Clips Strategy (00:43:00)Chayton shares his goal of posting daily short clips from his podcast on TikTok. Changing Perspectives on Accounting (00:44:57)Chayton discusses the negative perceptions of accounting compared to consulting and tech careers. Challenges of Additional Education Costs (00:45:39)Joey highlights the financial burden of pursuing an extra year of education for accounting. Tech's Impact on Accounting (00:45:48)Joey mentions how technology has changed the accounting landscape, affecting career choices. Content Creation Ideas for Accounting (00:46:19)Joey suggests creating relatable content showcasing modern accounting work-life. Perception Issues in Accounting (00:47:09)The speakers agree on the need to change outdated perceptions of accounting careers. Highlighting Tech and Consulting in Accounting (00:48:34)Chayton advocates for showcasing tech integration in accounting to attract new talent. Flexibility in Modern Accounting Jobs (00:50:02)Joey discusses the increased flexibility and work-life balance in contemporary accounting roles. Encouraging Student Engagement (00:53:35)Chayton suggests reaching out to students through virtual meetings to discuss diverse accounting careers. Importance of Early Career Engagement (00:55:02)Joey emphasizes the need to engage students early about accounting career opportunities. Open Dialogue Between Generations (00:56:52)Joey calls for open communication to understand what younger generations want from their careers. Closing Thoughts and Connections (00:57:23)Chayton shares how listeners can connect with him for further discussions and insights.

In this insightful episode of our podcast, we're excited to host Jody Grunden, a renowned accounting visionary and co-founder of the innovative Summit CPA Group, now known as Summit Virtual CFO by Anders. With over two decades of experience, Jody brings a wealth of knowledge in financial management, particularly for service-based companies.Join us as Jody delves into the critical aspects of financial management, including effective strategies for cash flow management, the importance of Key Performance Indicators (KPIs), and the art of forecasting in service-based businesses. This episode is a deep dive into how understanding and leveraging these financial tools can propel a business's growth and stability.Takeaways:Jody's Journey: From founding Summit CPA Group to merging with Anders CPAs + Advisors and becoming a leading provider of Virtual CFO Services.The Financial Four: Jody discusses the four most important financial metrics for growing your business.Industry-Specific Metrics: Learn how to use industry metrics to foster growth and become a thought leader in your field.Virtual CFO Services: Exploring the benefits and processes of managing finances remotely for service-based companies.KPIs and Cash Flow: Jody shares insights on tracking key metrics for maintaining a healthy financial pipeline.Building a Successful Remote Team: Jody talks about cultivating a strong culture within a distributed team and the impacts on business success.Future-Focused Forecasting: How forecasting can play a pivotal role in business strategy and decision-making.Become a supporter of this podcast: https://www.spreaker.com/podcast/brews-business--5630487/support.

“I love Excel. It's helped me save so much time over the years, and when I began thinking about Excel more like an employee that I can delegate stuff to, it helped me save an incredible amount of time.” – Jeff LenningThe finer details of this episode:• Strategies for leveraging Excel to improve efficiency• Continuous learning and development in Excel• Common pitfalls and challenges in Excel usage• Mindset shift from "if" to "how" in using Excel• Role of AI in enhancing Excel skills• Structure and offerings of Excel University• Key Excel functions and features for accountants• Real-world applications and case studies using Excel• Importance of presentation skills in Excel reportingEpisode resources:● Summit Virtual CFO by Anders website: https://www.summitcpa.net/● If you have questions or would like to be a guest on the show, email us at mcpasuccessshow@anderscpa.com● Check out the Virtual CFO Playbook Course: https://vcfoplaybook.summitcpa.net/● Connect with Jeff here: https://www.linkedin.com/in/jefflenning/● Check out Excel University here: https://www.excel-university.com/tipsTimestamps:Introduction to the Episode (00:00:00)Overview of the podcast's mission to provide insights on innovative tools and strategies in accounting.Guest Introduction (00:00:22)Tom introduces Jeff, a Microsoft MVP and founder of Excel University, highlighting his career background.Why Excel University? (00:01:18)Jeff explains his passion for Excel and how it transformed his workflow efficiency.Continuous Improvement in Excel (00:02:27)Discussion on the iterative process of optimizing Excel workbooks for efficiency and accuracy.The "Last Year" Trap (00:04:06)Jeff addresses how accountants often stick to familiar methods without seeking improvements.Mindset Shift in Excel Usage (00:05:53)Jeff shares his approach of asking "how" instead of "if" when automating tasks in Excel.Learning with AI Tools (00:07:00)Jeff discusses the benefits of using AI to enhance Excel skills and troubleshoot formulas.Excel University Experience (00:09:02)Overview of the structured learning approach at Excel University, focusing on sequential knowledge building.Continuing Education Credits (00:11:44)Information on CPE credits offered through Excel University's programs.Focus on Presentation Skills (00:12:11)Discussion on improving both functionality and presentation of Excel reports for better client communication.Charting in Excel (00:14:16)Tom and Jeff discuss the challenges of formatting charts in Excel for effective presentations.Key Excel Functions for Accountants (00:15:25)Jeff highlights essential Excel functions that every accountant should master.Power Query's Benefits (00:16:59)Jeff explains how Power Query automates data processing, saving time and improving efficiency.Real-Time Data Refresh (00:18:07)Benefits of using Excel for live updates during client meetings, enhancing responsiveness.The Impact of Spreadsheets (00:19:01)Discussion on the historical significance of spreadsheets in making personal computers indispensable.Microsoft's Ongoing Investment in Excel (00:19:51)Discussion on Microsoft's continuous updates and new features in Excel.Learning Excel Functions (00:20:17)Importance of learning new Excel functions beyond the basics through courses and online resources.YouTube Channel Promotion (00:20:38)Jeff shares his YouTube channel for quick Excel tips and updates.Searching for Excel Functions (00:21:06)Common issue of not knowing advanced functions like Power Query and XLOOKUP.Benefits of XLOOKUP (00:22:00)Explanation of XLOOKUP as a more resilient alternative to VLOOKUP.Excel University Audience (00:22:28)Overview of diverse student demographics, including CPAs and accounting professors.Student Confidence Boost (00:23:49)Feedback on how Excel training increases students' confidence in interviews.Underestimating Excel's Importance (00:24:33)Discussion on college students' misconceptions about Excel's relevance in their careers.Using Excel for Client Projects (00:25:35)Example of using Excel to model client scenarios and decision-making.Introverts and Problem Solving (00:25:48)Jeff shares his enjoyment of solving problems with Excel as an introvert.Google Sheets vs. Excel (00:26:27)Comparison of Google Sheets and Excel for collaborative work.Sharing Documents in Google Sheets (00:27:39)Discussion on the ease of sharing documents in Google Sheets compared to Excel.Gateway Computers Experience (00:28:25)Jeff reminisces about working at Gateway Computers and its rapid growth.Gateway's Growth Challenges (00:29:28)Stories of Gateway's ongoing expansion and the challenges faced.Excel Training at Gateway (00:31:08)Jeff's initial experience teaching Excel at Gateway's training centers.Role of Excel in Career Progression (00:32:53)Discussion on how various roles contributed to Jeff's Excel expertise.Daily Excel Usage (00:34:38)Jeff explains his daily engagement with Excel and content development.Office Hours Collaboration (00:35:34)The supportive environment of office hours where students share and learn from each other.Learning from Peer Demonstrations (00:36:08)Reflections on how sharing simple Excel techniques can lead to broader learning.Pivot Tables' Impact (00:37:09)Discussion on the transformative power of pivot tables in Excel.Pivot Tables and Formatting (00:38:07)Discussion on the importance of pivot tables and their time-saving formatting features.Power Query Feature (00:38:32)Jeff highlights Power Query as the most impressive Excel feature in the last two decades.Using Tables for Efficiency (00:38:44)Tables help eliminate errors and automatically adjust ranges in Excel functions.Indirect Function Discovery (00:39:12)Tom shares how the INDIRECT function simplified his work with changing templates from multiple countries.Time-Saving with INDIRECT (00:39:52)Tom explains how the INDIRECT function dramatically reduced turnaround time for presenting data.Learning from Excel University (00:40:46)Tom expresses motivation to improve Excel skills and acknowledges the value of Excel University.Time Efficiency Gains (00:41:11)Jeff mentions the significant time efficiency benefits experienced by his students.

Importance of podcasting for business ownersEnhancing visibility and credibility through podcast appearancesNetworking opportunities provided by podcastingRole of podcast guest booking agencies in facilitating appearancesContent repurposing strategies for maximizing podcast impactOvercoming imposter syndrome in podcastingEngaging team members in podcasting for brand representationProcess of working with a podcast guest booking agencyPersonal anecdotes and experiences related to travel and confidenceResources for preparing to be an effective podcast guest Episode resources:Summit Virtual CFO by Anders website: https://www.summitcpa.net/Love our content? Sign up for our newsletter: https://www.summitcpa.net/summit-newsletterDigital Dollars and Cents: A Virtual CFO's Playbook to help Digital Companies Create a Financial Roadmap to Success, is now an audio book! Download it here: https://vcfo.summitcpa.net/ddcConnect with Julie here: https://www.linkedin.com/in/fryjulie/Check out Your Expert Guest here: https://yourexpertguest.com/  Timestamps:Introduction to the Episode (00:00:00)Overview of the Creative Agency Success Show and its purpose for agency owners. Guest Introduction (00:00:15)Jamie introduces Julie Fry and shares his experience of missing part of the interview. Interview Context (00:00:45)Hannah reflects on the fun interview with Julie and her background. Podcasting as a Meta Topic (00:01:29)Discussion about the episode being focused on podcasting and its benefits. Hannah's Passion for Podcasting (00:02:03)Hannah expresses her excitement about podcasting and its advantages for business owners. Julie's Background (00:03:02)Julie shares her journey and the founding of her podcast guest booking agency. Genesis of Julie's Business (00:04:51)Julie explains how her business idea emerged during the early COVID-19 pandemic. Benefits of Podcast Guesting (00:06:57)Discussion on how podcast guesting can enhance visibility and referrals for service providers. Content Repurposing Importance (00:09:19)Julie highlights the value of repurposing podcast content for marketing. Overcoming Stage Fright (00:12:04)Advice for individuals feeling anxious about speaking on podcasts. Mindset Shift for Podcasters (00:12:18)Julie encourages focusing on the value of sharing knowledge during podcast interviews. Building Confidence Through Affirmations (00:14:16)Discussion on using testimonials to boost confidence before podcasting. Team Involvement in Podcasting (00:15:28)Exploration of how organizations can involve team members in podcasting efforts. Developing Personal Brands (00:18:43)Discussion on the benefits of employees building personal brands through podcasting. Client Engagement Process (00:19:41)Julie outlines the typical engagement process with her clients for podcast guesting. Podcast Guesting Benefits (00:22:14)Discussion on how delegating tasks can save time and increase efficiency for business owners. Favorite Vacation Stories (00:23:01)Julie shares her favorite vacation experiences, highlighting confidence gained from solo travel and family trips. Connecting with Julie (00:25:31)Julie provides information on how listeners can connect with her and access helpful resources for podcast guesting.

“I had a ton of imposter syndrome coming into this. It was severe, but it's been such a bright light in my life and career, getting to have honest conversations with folks.” – Hannah Hood “If that is something that you're interested in, do the damn thing.” – Joey Kinney The finer details of this episode:Importance of creating content tailored for young accounting professionals.Discussion of imposter syndrome and its prevalence in the accounting field.Reflection on the podcast's impact and growth over its first year.Recognition of the skills gap in middle management within the industry.Emphasis on the courage to pursue career changes and entrepreneurial ventures.The evolving landscape of entrepreneurship in accounting, facilitated by technology.The significance of mentorship and community support for young professionals.Celebration of the podcast's milestones and listener engagement.Encouragement for young CPAs to embrace their ambitions and seek guidance.Acknowledgment of the need for diverse perspectives, particularly from women in the industry. Episode resources:Summit Virtual CFO by Anders website: https://www.summitcpa.net/Email us with questions or if you'd like to be a guest on the show: youngcpasuccessshow@anderscpa.comWe're hiring! Check out our open positions: https://www.summitcpa.net/career-opportunities Timestamps:Welcome to the Young CPA Success Show (00:00:00)Introduction to the podcast, aimed at guiding young accounting professionals in their careers. Year in Review (00:00:22)Discussion about the podcast's first year and the importance of recognizing team contributions. Introducing Roxanne Raynor (00:01:50)Roxanne shares her behind-the-scenes role and reflects on her experience with the podcast. Rob Semos Joins the Conversation (00:02:10)Rob introduces himself, discussing his background in video editing and his contributions to the podcast. Hannah's Growth and Support (00:10:12)Hannah expresses gratitude for support from her co-hosts and shares her rewarding experiences with the podcast. Imposter Syndrome Discussion (00:11:03)Hannah talks about overcoming imposter syndrome and the positive feedback received from listeners. Highlighting Audience Engagement (00:11:35)Hannah mentions reaching out to the audience for feedback and the podcast's impact on listeners. Skills Gap in Middle Management (00:15:28)Discussion on the skills gap in middle management and the need for solutions in the accounting industry. Courage and Resiliency in Guests (00:18:25)Joey highlights the courage shown by guests who take initiative to address industry challenges. Courage to Take Action (00:19:34)Discussion on the importance of courage in pursuing new skills and opportunities. Soft Skills vs. Technical Skills (00:19:54)Exploration of whether courage or skills are more crucial for career growth. Barriers to Entry in Entrepreneurship (00:20:28)Insights on how starting an accounting firm has become more accessible for young professionals. The Impact of Technology on Opportunities (00:22:44)Discussion on how technology and interconnectivity create new opportunities for young entrepreneurs. Encouragement for Young Professionals (00:23:54)Motivating young individuals to take advantage of the current landscape for career advancement. Podcast Reach and Impact (00:25:13)Reflection on the unexpected reach and impact of their podcast on listeners. Download Statistics Reveal Success (00:26:41)Sharing impressive download statistics and audience engagement with the podcast. Favorite Listening Times (00:28:02)Discussion on when listeners prefer to tune into the podcast, highlighting commute times. Importance of the Podcast for Young Professionals (00:30:15)Exploration of how the podcast addresses the challenges faced by young professionals in accounting. Mentorship Reflections (00:31:27)Hannah shares her thoughts on the importance of mentorship in career development. The Journey and Its Lessons (00:32:52)Discussion on how personal experiences shape the perspectives shared on the podcast. Opportunities for Change in Accounting (00:35:08)Encouragement to create transparency and change perceptions about the accounting profession. Recommended Podcast Episodes (00:35:55)Suggestions for past episodes that can benefit young professionals entering the industry. Diversity of Perspectives in Podcast Guests (00:37:07)Highlighting the variety of guests and perspectives shared on the show. Celebrating One Year of the Podcast (00:38:22)Reflection on the podcast's first anniversary and its significance. Feeling Like a Mentor (00:39:04)Discussion on personal feelings about mentorship and imposter syndrome. Reflection on Growth (00:39:09)Discussion on personal growth and opportunities gained since starting the show. Role of a Mentor (00:39:45)Speaker shares their desire to be a supportive figure rather than a traditional coach. Celebrating One Year (00:40:52)Acknowledgment of the podcast's first anniversary and its evolution from an idea to a successful show. Gratitude for Team Support (00:41:14)Expressions of thanks to team members who contributed to the podcast's success. Cheers to Future Opportunities (00:41:52)A toast to the past year and excitement for future endeavors, emphasizing camaraderie. Career Development Opportunities (00:42:04)Invitation for young CPAs to explore remote work opportunities and open positions.

Learn how to showcase the unique advantages of smaller firms with Kelly Schuknecht from Summit Virtual CFO by Anders. In this episode delve into the strategies that empower small accounting firms to thrive despite resource constraints. Our guest, Kelly Schuknecht, Marketing Director at Summit Virtual CFO, shares valuable insights on leveraging niche expertise and personalized service to make a significant impact. Kelly emphasizes the power of building strong relationships and delivering customized solutions, talks about how specialized knowledge allows firms to stand out in the market and explores practical tips for enhancing client satisfaction while driving growth.   For more Amplify episodes and to learn more about the Association for Accounting Marketing, visit accountingmarketing.org/category/amplify  

“The smartest people in the world know where their expertise ends and someone else's begins. We all need to understand that because if we're on the right team, everybody wins.” – Michael ClarkeThe finer details of this episode:• Transitioning from individual-centric practices to sustainable business models in professional services.• Importance of teamwork and collaboration among professionals serving the same clients.• Common mistakes made by professional service providers in managing their firms.• Strategies for building trust and effective communication with clients.• The significance of understanding and targeting ideal clients for growth.• The role of support staff in enhancing client relationships and operational efficiency.• The concept of “trust compression” and its impact on client onboarding and retention.• Emphasizing education and clear communication in the advisory process.• The value of networking and continuous learning for professional development.Episode resources:● Summit Virtual CFO by Anders website: https://www.summitcpa.net/● If you have questions or would like to be a guest on the show, email us at mcpasuccessshow@anderscpa.com● Check out the Virtual CFO Playbook Course: https://vcfoplaybook.summitcpa.net/● Connect with Michael here:● Check Protection Point Advisors out here: https://www.protectionpointadvisors.com/advisors/team/mike-clarke/ Timestamps:Welcome and Introduction (00:00:00)The host introduces the podcast and its mission to provide insights for accounting firms.Guest Introduction (00:00:22)Adam shares his thoughts on the upcoming discussion with guest Michael Clarke and his book.Michael Clarke's Career Journey (00:01:40)Michael discusses his background in the insurance industry and the founding of Protection Point Advisors.Overview of "A Firm Worth Building" (00:03:03)Michael explains the motivation behind his book and the lessons learned from his mistakes.Transitioning from Individual Practice to Business (00:04:13)Michael emphasizes the importance of moving from individual-centered practices to sustainable business models.Building Relationships with Other Professionals (00:06:03)Michael highlights the value of collaboration between professionals to enhance client service.Common Mistakes in Firm Management (00:09:21)Michael identifies key mistakes professionals make, such as being the center of their practice.Practical Lessons in the Book (00:12:12)Adam asks Michael to share one crucial lesson from his book on managing professional firms.Understanding Trust Compression (00:12:50)Michael introduces the concept of trust compression and its significance in client relationships.Education as a Key Element (00:15:27)Michael discusses the importance of educating clients to build trust and improve service quality.Applying Trust Compression Beyond Onboarding (00:17:59)Michael suggests ways to apply trust compression in various processes, not just onboarding.Making Client Interactions Painless (00:19:01)Michael stresses the need to solve client problems while making the process as painless as possible.Good Growth Explained (21:22)Michael discusses the concept of "good growth" and why professionals struggle with it.Identifying Ideal Clients (22:48)He emphasizes the importance of knowing your ideal clients to avoid bad growth.Balancing Growth and Client Quality (23:35)The speakers discuss the challenge of balancing client acquisition with maintaining quality.Building a Reliable Referral Network (25:09)Michael shares insights on developing a trustworthy referral network for business growth.Creating Effective Partnerships (27:34)He explains how partnerships can enhance client services and improve business outcomes.Edifying Team Members (32:21)Michael stresses the importance of building up colleagues to foster trust and collaboration.Managing Client Growth (33:17)Discussion on the common belief of firing low-priced clients to make room for better ones.Building What Should Exist (39:43)Michael defines his philosophy of creating optimal solutions for client care within CPA firms.Practical Changes in Practice (00:41:08)Discusses how professionals can implement small, incremental changes rather than overhauling their entire practice.Importance of Support Staff (00:41:58)Emphasizes the role of support staff in making professionals look good and the need to value them properly.Learning to Manage (00:42:41)Michael reflects on his journey to becoming a better boss and the importance of self-improvement.Transitioning from Doing to Managing (00:43:12)Highlights the urgency for professionals to transition from doing the work to effectively managing their business.Collaborative Learning in Networks (00:44:48)Michael advocates for joining networks to learn from peers and create a collaborative environment for growth.Inspiration and Continuous Learning (00:46:05)Encourages surrounding oneself with inspiring individuals and cultivating a habit of reading for personal and professional growth.

“If you sit down and really make sure that your profile resonates and is truly you, it feels good, and you smile. Ultimately, you become a person who doesn't have to look for a job. Jobs find you. You become a person whose phone rings because there are opportunities, because people know you, remember you, have worked with you, and they want to work with you again.”—Donna Serdula The finer details of this episode:Importance of personal branding on LinkedInShift in perception of the platformChallenges of creating and maintaining a professional presence on social mediaControlling one's personal brand and its impact on career opportunitiesShowcasing values, actions, and descriptions to create a strong and memorable brandBalancing professionalism with personal authenticity on LinkedInImportance of consistency and cadence in posting content on LinkedIn Episode resources:Summit Virtual CFO by Anders website: https://www.summitcpa.net/Love our content? Sign up for our newsletter: https://www.summitcpa.net/summit-newsletterDigital Dollars and Cents: A Virtual CFO's Playbook to help Digital Companies Create a Financial Roadmap to Success, is now an audio book! Download it here: https://vcfo.summitcpa.net/ddchttps://Donnanaserdula.com/https://www.linkedin.com/in/toDonnana/ Timestamps:The importance of personal branding on LinkedIn (00:01:13)Discussion on the psychology behind personal branding and deliberate control of perception. The shift in perception of LinkedIn (00:02:07)The change from a passive networking platform to a more active and personal branding platform. The challenges of maintaining a professional presence on social media (00:02:44)Struggles with the perception of LinkedIn as a purely professional platform and the fear of being too personal. The evolving concept of professionalism on LinkedIn (00:04:25)Debunking the traditional image of professionalism and the need to move away from the concept of a suit and tie. The importance of personal branding for career growth (00:08:08)Emphasizing the significance of personal branding for career development and the need to control one's brand. Strategies for personal branding on LinkedIn (00:09:49)Discussion on the vision, mission, and consistent portrayal of oneself to create a strong personal brand. The value of personal connection in professional work (00:12:49)The significance of bringing one's whole self to work and the impact of personal connections in professional settings. The time and effort required for effective LinkedIn utilization (00:15:49)The need for strategic planning, time investment, and iterative work to create a strong LinkedIn profile. Overcoming psychological barriers to posting on LinkedIn (00:18:16)Dealing with the negative psychology and vulnerability associated with posting on LinkedIn. The positivity of LinkedIn (00:19:08)Discussion about the positive and professional atmosphere of LinkedIn compared to other social media platforms. Building a professional network (00:20:08)The importance of surrounding oneself with positive and empowering connections on LinkedIn. Creating an authentic LinkedIn profile (00:21:06)Encouragement to take control of one's image on LinkedIn, making the profile authentic and aligned with personal goals. Utilizing LinkedIn for professional relationships (00:22:00)The significance of researching and checking out profiles on LinkedIn for business interactions. Starting and maintaining a LinkedIn profile (00:24:43)Encouragement for individuals to start their LinkedIn journey and the emotional component of personal branding. Success on LinkedIn and real-world relationships (00:26:23)Emphasizing the importance of moving beyond LinkedIn to build real-world relationships for professional success. Consistency and storytelling on LinkedIn (00:33:42)The importance of consistency in posting and sharing on LinkedIn, drawing parallels with a story from "The Little Prince." Balancing positivity and authenticity on LinkedIn (00:37:01)Encouragement to not overthink posting on LinkedIn and to share authentic experiences without worrying about being too cringey. Personal Branding on LinkedIn (00:37:50)Donna discusses the importance of posting on LinkedIn to develop personal branding and shares tips for creating engaging content. Encouragement and Personal Growth (00:40:43)The hosts and Donna share personal experiences and offer encouragement for those feeling behind in their professional journey. Expanding Your Network on LinkedIn (00:43:08)Donna advises expanding the LinkedIn network to gain diverse perspectives and avoid feeling stuck in comparison. Investing in Personal Branding (00:45:18)Donna emphasizes the value of investing in personal branding and recommends utilizing free resources for self-improvement. Personal Life and Interests (00:46:38)Donna shares personal insights about being a mother and having a son with special needs, offering a broader perspective for her work.

“I want to make sure that whatever we create, it's not only conducive for my lifestyle but for my entire team.” – Jody Grunden The finer details of this episode:Transformation of the accounting professionChanging perceptions within the accounting industryImportance of personal relationships and communication in professional successExperiences and challenges faced in public accounting and corporate rolesEntrepreneurial journey and founding of Summit CPA GroupEmphasis on work-life balance and flexible work environmentsAdoption of remote work and its impact on company cultureNeed for adaptability and innovation in accounting practicesRole of soft skills and interpersonal relationships in future accounting careersEncouragement for young professionals to embrace change and seek personal development opportunities Episode resources:Summit Virtual CFO by Anders website: https://www.summitcpa.net/Email us with questions or if you'd like to be a guest on the show: youngcpasuccessshow@anderscpa.comWe're hiring! Check out our open positions: https://www.summitcpa.net/career-opportunitiesConnect with Jody here: https://www.linkedin.com/in/jodygrunden/Check out Summit Virtual CFO by Anders here: https://www.summitcpa.net/ Timestamps:Welcome to the Young CPA Success Show (00:00:00)Introduction to the podcast aimed at guiding young accounting professionals in their careers. Changing Perceptions in Accounting (00:00:23)Discussion about the importance of altering how the world perceives accounting. Jody's Journey in Accounting (00:01:23)Jody shares his background, from studying finance to discovering his passion for accounting. Experiences in Public Accounting (00:02:35)Jody recounts his challenging experiences in public accounting and the toll it took on him. Transition to Corporate World (00:04:09)Jody describes his shift from public accounting to corporate roles and initial enjoyment. Starting an Entrepreneurial Journey (00:05:38)Jody discusses leaving corporate life to run a small CPA firm and its challenges. Creating Summit CFO (00:07:14)Jody details the founding of Summit CFO, focusing on innovative practices and culture. Changing the Way Accounting Works (00:08:42)Jody emphasizes his goal to transform accounting practices for better work-life balance. Pioneering New Accounting Practices (00:10:14)Recognition of Jody as a pioneer in innovative accounting practices and culture. Overcoming Obstacles in Accounting (00:12:01)Discussion on turning challenges into opportunities and embracing change in the industry. Building Team Culture (00:14:00)The importance of intentional team culture and communication in remote work environments. Risk and Change in Accounting (00:15:02)Challenges accountants face with risk and change, and the need for adaptable team members. Here are the extracted timestamps and their corresponding titles from the podcast episode transcription segment: Going Remote: The Decision (00:15:42)Discussion on the decision to go fully remote and initial reactions from the team. Stand-Up Meetings and Culture (00:16:36)Overview of stand-up meetings, starting with jokes, and fostering a collaborative culture. Initial Resistance to Remote Work (00:17:14)Team members express concerns about remote work; only one person agrees to the idea. Office Renovation and Investment (00:18:32)Details about the office renovation and the unexpected shift towards remote work. Lessons from the Transition (00:19:17)Reflections on the financial implications of the office renovation amidst the remote transition. Adapting to Remote Work (00:20:03)Gradual acceptance of remote work by team members and the eventual leasing of the office. Listening vs. Acting (00:21:02)Speaker discusses the importance of listening to feedback without feeling obligated to act on it. The Entrepreneurial Spirit (00:22:16)Exploration of the entrepreneurial mindset within the company and its impact on employee roles. Compensation Structure and Flexibility (00:23:50)Explanation of the compensation model that supports both ambition and security for employees. Importance of Diverse Roles (00:27:06)The necessity of having both ambitious and content employees for company success. Evaluating Potential Hires (00:28:20)Criteria for assessing candidates, including sports and teamwork experience beyond academics. Remote Work Dynamics (00:29:46)Discussion on the effectiveness of remote work and maintaining engagement through video calls. Remote Work Presentation Tips (00:31:12)Importance of professional camera presence and background during virtual interviews. Creating Work-Life Boundaries (00:32:03)Discussion on the necessity of having a designated workspace to separate work from personal life. Flexibility in Remote Work (00:32:50)Benefits of remote work include flexibility for personal emergencies and family commitments. Task-Oriented vs. Hours-Driven Work (00:34:23)Emphasis on productivity based on task completion rather than hours worked. Balancing Career and Family (00:35:18)Personal experiences of balancing a career in accounting with family responsibilities. Company Culture and Flexibility (00:36:11)Summit CFO's supportive environment allows employees to prioritize family alongside work. Personal Health Journey (00:37:15)Speaker shares health improvements and lifestyle changes since joining Summit CFO. Work-Life Integration (00:38:49)Discussion on the shift from work-life balance to work-life integration for better fulfillment. Vision for Accounting's Future (00:40:12)Changing perceptions about accounting for clients and the industry, aiming for innovation. AI's Impact on Accounting (00:45:58)Predictions on how AI will transform traditional accounting roles and emphasize advisory services. Importance of Soft Skills (00:47:40)Highlighting the growing need for soft skills in accounting to build client relationships. The Importance of Client Relationships (00:48:24)Discusses a challenging client onboarding experience emphasizing the value of personal relationships in client retention. The Power of Communication (00:48:38)Highlights the necessity of communication skills for success in any profession, including accounting. Curiosity in the Workplace (00:49:47)Encourages questioning established practices to foster innovation and improve job performance. The Cake Story Analogy (00:50:26)Shares a humorous story illustrating the importance of understanding the reasons behind actions and practices. Innovating Through Inquiry (00:51:14)Explains how being curious and asking "why" can lead to better processes and innovation in the workplace. Wrapping Up the Podcast (00:51:29)Concludes the episode, expressing gratitude and excitement for future connections and opportunities. Connecting with Jody (00:52:10)Provides information on how listeners can connect with Jody and learn more about his work. Invitation for Young CPAs (00:52:57)Encourages young CPAs to explore career development opportunities with Summit CFO and Anders CPAs.

“Procrastination is a huge problem, but the bigger problem is the lack of awareness of the need for owners to start planning now, whether you're selling in three years or 13 years.” – Adam Koós The finer details of this episode:Financial strategies for clients with appreciated propertiesChallenges faced by business owners in managing real estate assets and company structuresTax implications of selling a business and recasting financialsImportance of proactive financial planning and business transition for business owners Episode resources:Summit Virtual CFO by Anders website: https://www.summitcpa.net/If you have questions or would like to be a guest on the show, email us at mcpasuccessshow@anderscpa.comCheck out the Virtual CFO Playbook Course: https://vcfoplaybook.summitcpa.net/Connect with Adam here: https://www.linkedin.com/in/adamkoos/Check out Libertas Wealth here: http://www.LibertasWealth.com Timestamps:The introduction (00:00:00)The hosts introduce the podcast and its mission, providing insights on accounting strategies and innovative tools. Adam's career story (00:00:55)Adam shares his unconventional career journey from pre-med to becoming a financial advisor and the founding of Libertas Wealth Management Group. Services provided by Libertas (00:04:45)Adam discusses Libertas' services, including financial planning, retirement planning, exit planning for business owners, and working with working professionals. Financial strategies for clients with appreciated properties (00:07:26)Adam explains the 1031 exchange and passive real estate investing as a solution for clients with appreciated properties who want to avoid active management and taxes. Liquidity and risk management in passive real estate investing (00:13:51)The discussion explores the liquidity and risk management aspects of passive real estate investing, including spreading risk by investing in multiple properties. Impact of COVID-19 on commercial real estate (00:15:39)Adam discusses the potential impact of COVID-19 on commercial real estate, including lease expirations and mortgage debt held at community banks. Elevate your firm with a virtual CFO playbook (00:16:36)An advertisement for a comprehensive online series to create and deliver scalable CFO services. Real estate and business ownership (00:17:18)Discussion on the strategy of keeping the building and retaining an income stream after retirement. Transition planning and exit planning (00:18:00)Clients' experiences in selling their companies, keeping properties, and the process of selling properties. Engagements with business owners (00:18:55)Exploration of the two types of engagements with business owners, focusing on personal and business guidance. 12-step process for business owners (00:19:47)Explanation of the 12-step process to increase the value of the company, decrease time in the business, and increase efficiencies. Risk assessment and advisory work (00:21:34)Discussion on risk assessment, tax planning, and the need for expert assistance in various aspects of business planning. Recasting and tax strategies (00:23:47)Importance of recasting business expenses and tax strategies for business owners preparing to sell. Cash balance plan and retirement strategies (00:26:27)Explanation of cash balance plans, retirement contributions, and tax reduction strategies for business owners. Exit planning and retirement (00:31:05)Discussion on optimizing cash, Roth conversions, and planning for retirement and exit strategies. Procrastination and Lack of Awareness (00:33:17)Consequences of procrastination in business planning and the lack of awareness about the need for owners to start planning now. Running a Good Business (00:35:22)The importance of running a good business and differentiating between a lifestyle business and building an asset. Transition Planning and Business Value (00:36:32)The importance of business transition planning and its impact on the value of the company, providing an analogy for understanding the benefits. Selling a Business and Pitfalls (00:39:46)The speakers discuss the pitfalls of selling a business without proper planning and the impact of disagreements between owners on the selling process. Taking Action and Accountability (00:42:12)The need for taking action, breaking down steps into smaller tasks, and the importance of accountability in business planning. Spreading Awareness and Seeking Expertise (00:44:23)Adam urges CPAs to spread awareness about business planning and transition, emphasizing the role of experts in facilitating the process.

"Alignment is going in the same direction, fighting for the same things, and looking at the same big picture together.” – Rachel GertzThe finer details of this episode:●       Importance of project management and operations in digital agencies and creative studios●       Challenges in project management and the need for alignment between sales and project management●       Solutions to improve communication and alignment between departments●       Importance of understanding client goals and business objectives during the sales process●       Concept of time in the sales process and optimizing operations for long-term efficiency●       The three questions of project management: "Where are we? Where are we going? Are we okay?"●       Importance of ongoing alignment, regular check-ins, and alignment exercises for client satisfaction and project successEpisode resources:●       Summit Virtual CFO by Anders website: https://www.summitcpa.net/●       Love our content? Sign up for our newsletter: https://www.summitcpa.net/summit-newsletter●       Digital Dollars and Cents: A Virtual CFO's Playbook to help Digital Companies Create a Financial Roadmap to Success, is now an audio book! Download it here: https://vcfo.summitcpa.net/ddcConnect with Rachel here: https://www.linkedin.com/in/rachel-gertz-trainer/Check out Louder than Ten here: https://louderthanten.comTimestamps:Welcome to the Creative Agency Success Show (00:00:00)Introduction to the podcast and anticipation of the upcoming discussion with Rachel Gertz.Insights from Rachel Gertz's Interview (00:00:14)Discussion about the valuable tips and insights shared by Rachel Gertz in the podcast episode.Improving Client Onboarding Process (00:00:36)The importance of implementing new client onboarding strategies and the potential impact on client efficiency and improvements.Implementing Advice from Rachel Gertz (00:01:11)Encouragement to implement the advice shared by Rachel Gertz and the anticipation of positive outcomes from the episode.Introduction of Rachel Gertz and Hannah (00:02:10)Introduction of Rachel Gertz as the guest and Hannah as the special guest host for the episode.Rachel Gertz's Background and Passion (00:02:35)Insight into Rachel Gertz's background, passion for project management, and the focus of Louder Than Ten.Rachel Gertz's Transition to Project Management (00:03:15)Rachel Gertz's transition to project management, her background in teaching and education, and her passion for the softer side of project management.Common Ailments in Project Management (00:05:14)Identification of common challenges in project management and the impact of misalignment between sales and project management.Improving Communication Between Departments (00:06:50)The significance of communication between departments and the need for solutions to ensure effective communication among all departments.Sales Process and Project Management Handover (00:07:43)The impact of rushed sales processes and the importance of aligning project goals with business goals for successful project delivery.Optimizing Sales Process (00:09:00)Strategies for optimizing the sales process, including vetting criteria, involving subject matter experts, and aligning project goals with business goals.Project Management Alignment Exercise (00:15:36)Recommendation to use a client fit matrix for alignment exercises and the importance of regular check-ins to maintain alignment throughout the project.Weekly Team Check-Ins (00:17:57)Flexible approaches for weekly team check-ins, including the format, cadence, and the incorporation of project-related health questions.Guiding Conversations and Asking the Right Questions (00:19:33)The importance of framing questions to guide conversations and ensure the right answers during check-in meetings.Each topic title is followed by the starting time of the segment in the podcast episode.Project Management and Change Management (00:19:48)Discussion about handling changes in project scope, involving project managers, account managers, and sales.Flexibility in Project Scoping (00:21:46)Exploring the idea of designing projects with flexibility and adaptability, and the impact on pricing and project direction.Believability and Billability of Project Management (00:24:19)Addressing the struggle of getting project managers and account managers billable, and their role in the project's success.Post Project Evaluation and Continuous Improvement (00:26:28)Importance and process of post-project evaluation, including setting a window for project closure and conducting lessons learned sessions.Favorite Concerts (00:32:38)Casual discussion about the hosts' favorite concerts and musical interests.Final Thoughts and Contact Information (00:35:28)Guest's final thoughts on project management, operations, and the importance of slowing down, and sharing contact information for further resources and support.

“Everyone in the accounting industry talks the lingo, the foreign language of accounting. We know what we're talking about. But, for our clients, most of them don't. It's our job to help them understand by translating our technical jargon into something simpler.” – Peter Margaritis, CSP, CPA The finer details of this episode:Importance of communication and storytelling skills for accountantsTranslating technical accounting language into plain English for clientsUnderstanding and connecting with clients on a personal levelEfforts at Oklahoma State University to incorporate communication and client service skills into the accounting curriculumDeveloping communication skills in the classroomTailoring communication to different personality types and communication styles in client interactionsSignificance of non-verbal communication, particularly in virtual environmentsSoft skills and power skills for young accountantsPrinciples of improvisation and its relevance to client interactions and teamworkBalancing future-oriented thinking with present-focused awareness Episode resources:Summit Virtual CFO by Anders website: https://www.summitcpa.net/Email us with questions or if you'd like to be a guest on the show: youngcpasuccessshow@anderscpa.comWe're hiring! Check out our open positions: https://www.summitcpa.net/career-opportunitiesConnect with Peter here: https://www.linkedin.com/in/petermargaritis/Check out The Accidental Accountant here: https://petermargaritis.com/ Timestamps:The importance of communication and translation (00:00:22)Discussion on the vital role of accountants in translating technical language for business owners and the need for young accountants to develop communication skills. Incorporating communication skills in accounting education (00:01:13)The efforts at Oklahoma State University to include professional development workshops in the accounting curriculum to prepare students for effective communication. Translating technical language into plain English (00:02:33)A real-life example illustrating the consequences of failing to communicate technical accounting language to a business owner and the need for accountants to bridge this gap. Challenges in learning storytelling skills (00:04:35)The difficulties young accountants face in learning storytelling skills and the importance of understanding and connecting with clients on a personal level. Starting to learn storytelling skills (00:05:57)The suggestion to practice explaining accounting tasks to friends and family in simpler terms as a starting point for developing storytelling skills. Tailoring the message to the audience (00:07:41)The necessity for accountants to tailor their message to the audience, along with strategies for understanding the language of the person being communicated with. Resistance to incorporating communication in accounting education (00:10:54)Discussion on the resistance and challenges faced in integrating communication skills into accounting education at the university level. Changing perceptions of accounting through storytelling (00:13:54)The potential impact of changing the way accountants communicate about their profession to high school students to attract more individuals to the accounting field. Impact of storytelling in changing perceptions about accounting (00:15:18)How storytelling and sharing personal experiences in accounting can change students' perceptions about the profession and attract them to consider accounting as a career. Building rapport with clients through language understanding (00:17:54)The importance of understanding the language and buzzwords of different industries to build rapport with clients and connect with them on a deeper level. Connecting with clients through personal stories (00:19:29)The significance of finding a connection with clients through personal stories and interests, and the impact it has on building relationships. The connection and trust-building in client relationships (00:20:07)Importance of genuine connection for developing trust with clients, leading to better understanding and communication. Understanding and adapting to different client personalities (00:20:59)Discussion on using the DISC personality assessment to understand and adapt to different client personalities for effective communication. Importance of body language in virtual communication (00:26:20)Emphasizing the significance of turning on the camera in virtual meetings to convey engagement and avoid misinterpretations. Flexibility and teamwork in communication (00:28:25)Recognizing the value of complementary skill sets and adaptability in teamwork and communication. The impact of attitude and improvisation in daily interactions (00:33:47)Highlighting the significance of maintaining a positive attitude and being present in daily interactions, drawing parallels with improvisation techniques. The art of consulting and understanding client needs (00:37:21)Drawing parallels between improv skills and consulting, emphasizing the importance of understanding and adapting to client needs. Intentional focus on present space and personal growth (00:38:13)Recognizing the need for intentional focus on living in the present and improving current circumstances for personal growth. The importance of preparation (00:39:19)Discussion on the significance of overpreparing and then improvising in presentations and speeches. The power of storytelling (00:40:15)Exploration of Martin Luther King's improvisation during the "I have a dream" speech and the impact of storytelling on evoking emotions. The art of public speaking (00:42:13)The importance of overpreparation for public speaking and the ability to pivot and connect with the audience. The impact of storytelling (00:43:15)The value of storytelling in aligning emotions with data and making a lasting impression on clients. The art of storytelling (00:44:30)Discussion on the art of storytelling, including the need for stories to be true and emotional rather than just factual. The role of emotions in decision-making (00:45:16)The influence of emotions on decision-making and the importance of aligning emotions with data in client interactions. Personal interests and hobbies (00:46:33)Insight into the personal life and hobbies of Peter, including writing, biking, and stand-up comedy. Connecting with the audience (00:50:15)Peter's contact information and a light-hearted exchange about connecting with him outside the show.

“The reason I started Modeliks is because it took me three weeks to create a proper financial model in Excel for every new client. With our predefined financial model template, you have that handed to you on a plate.” – Blagoja HamamdjievThe finer details of this episode:Discussion about business planning and financial reporting software for startups and small businessesMain features of Modeliks software, including financial planning, budgeting, and advisory servicesImportance of driver-based financial planning and its impact on business resultsCost-effectiveness and pre-defined financial model templates by industry within the softwareIntegration of financial tables and charts with pitch decks and business plansEfficiency and time-saving benefits of using the software for financial modeling and planningDashboard functionality, including tracking financial progress and accessing various chartsUser experience and flexibility of the software, including multi-user collaboration and planned AI integrationLevels of support provided by Modeliks, including customer support and live sessions with screen sharing Episode resources:Summit Virtual CFO by Anders website: https://www.summitcpa.net/If you have questions or would like to be a guest on the show, email us at mcpasuccessshow@anderscpa.comCheck out the Virtual CFO Playbook Course: https://vcfoplaybook.summitcpa.net/Check out Modeliks, here: www.modeliks.com Timestamps:The introduction (00:00:00)The hosts introduce the podcast and its mission, setting the stage for the upcoming episode. Guest Introduction and Background (00:01:48)The hosts introduce Blagoja Hamamdjiev, CEO and founder of Modeliks, and discuss his personal and professional background. Global Nature of Modeliks (00:04:22)Blagoja discusses the global footprint of Modeliks, including the location of their team and their incorporation in Ireland. Using Modeliks for Financial Planning and Advisory Services (00:07:51)Blagoja explains how Modeliks can be used for creating financial plans, pitch decks, and business plans, including its applications for advisory services. Driver-Based Financial Planning (00:11:32)Blagoja delves into the concept of driver-based financial planning and its importance in managing and improving businesses. Integration of Financials with Pitch Deck and Business Plan (00:16:29)Discussion on how Modeliks integrates financials with pitch decks and business plans, providing a unique and efficient solution for businesses. Cost and Industry-Specific Financial Model Templates (00:19:31)Blagoja highlights the cost-effectiveness of Modeliks compared to other software and the availability of industry-specific financial model templates within the software. Creating Financial Models (00:20:26)Blagoja explains the time-consuming process of creating financial models in Excel and the efficiency of using Modeliks templates. Flexibility and Data Integration (00:22:31)Discussion on the flexibility and data integration capabilities of Modeliks, including the current and planned data input methods and integrations. Dashboard and Reporting Functionality (00:28:12)Blagoja details the dashboard and reporting functionalities of Modeliks, including variance analysis, charts, ratios, and custom KPIs. Future AI Integration (00:32:01)The planned integration of AI features in Modeliks, such as generative writing and AI analysis of financial numbers, is discussed. Challenges in Financial Planning (00:34:29)The challenges CPAs face in creating financial models and the barriers to providing advisory services are explored. Excel vs. Other Tools (00:36:26)The use of Excel in financial planning and the challenges and benefits of using other software tools are discussed. Collaboration and Pricing (00:38:53)The flexibility and real-time collaboration capabilities of Modeliks, as well as the pricing structure and value proposition, are explained. Support and Training (00:40:22)The support and training options available for users of Modeliks, including live support and demo calls, are discussed. Live Support and Niche Industry Models (00:40:54)Discussion about live support, niche industry financial models, and personalized assistance for clients. Help Center and Training Videos (00:42:00)Explanation of the extensive help center with training videos and the value of personalized onboarding and training sessions. Consolidation Feature and Multi-Dimensional Planning (00:43:52)Upcoming features in the software, including a consolidation feature and multi-dimensional planning for more complex businesses. Future Software Updates (00:45:29)Anticipation for upcoming software updates, including QuickBooks integration, multi-dimensional planning, and localization in different languages. Advisory Services and Financial Planning (00:45:55)The importance of advisory services and the value of creating a useful financial plan based on drivers. Passion for Driver-Based Financial Planning (00:47:01)The speaker's passion for creating logical and impactful financial plans based on drivers, and the importance of setting targets. Role of Advisors in Business Management (00:48:08)The role of advisors in helping entrepreneurs with the analytical part of running a business and the value of collaboration. Conclusion and Podcast Promotion (00:48:27)Closing remarks and promotion of the podcast website for more resources on modern CPA firm success. 

In this compelling episode of Building the Premier Accounting Firm, host Roger Knecht engages with Jeff Bartsch, a communication strategist who transitioned from the entertainment industry to the world of accounting. Together, they explore the transformative power of storytelling in enhancing client relationships and marketing strategies for accountants. Main Themes: The Power of Storytelling in Accounting: Jeff underscores the vital role of storytelling in connecting with clients and conveying complex financial concepts in an engaging and understandable manner. He draws intriguing parallels between Hollywood's narrative techniques and business communication, advocating for strategic storytelling to make financial data more relatable and actionable. Strategic vs. Tactical Storytelling: Jeff distinguishes between tactical stories (short, situational anecdotes) and strategic storytelling (comprehensive narratives that depict transformation and overcoming obstacles). He emphasizes the importance of positioning clients as heroes in their own business stories, with accountants acting as guiding mentors. Effective Client Communication: Jeff and Roger highlight insightful questioning as a key method for uncovering clients' true desires and challenges, enabling accountants to align their services with clients' goals effectively. Real-world examples illustrate the profound impact of tailored communication, such as a virtual CFO helping a CEO achieve a balance between company value and employee compensation. Contextualizing Financial Data: The episode stresses the necessity of providing context to financial numbers to make them meaningful and relevant to clients. Accountants are encouraged to facilitate informed decision-making by guiding clients through their motivations and goals, ultimately contributing to business growth. Niche Market Focus: Roger recommends specialization for virtual CFOs and accountants to tailor communication and attract the right clients effectively. The challenges and successes of Summit Virtual CFO in focusing on digital agencies and other industries are discussed, highlighting the importance of expertise and strategic messaging. Additional Highlights: Complimentary Coaching: Jeff Bartsch offers a free coaching opportunity for established accountants to refine their storytelling and communication strategies. GrowCon Conference: Mention of GrowCon, an annual event for networking and professional development in the accounting industry, held by Universal Accounting Center. Universal Accounting Center: Encouragement to engage with the resources and training provided by Universal Accounting Center to enhance accounting practices. Conclusion: This episode is a must-listen for accountants looking to strengthen their client relationships and marketing strategies through the art of storytelling. By viewing clients as heroes and themselves as mentors, accountants can make financial information more engaging and actionable, leading to significant business growth and client satisfaction. If you're ready to take your business to new heights with Universal Accounting Center's advanced coaching, or if you'd like to build your own thriving accounting firm, call 435-344-2060. Sponsors: Universal Accounting Center Helping accounting professionals confidently and competently offer quality accounting services to get paid what they are worth.   Offers: One URL for listeners of this podcast: link to my podcast that explains the concepts more. Plus instructions for how to apply for a complimentary coaching session as a gift for listeners of this podcast: https://www.storygreenlight.com/premier/ Also visit https://www.storygreenlight.com/universal for more information and to apply these principles in the business world. Reach out to Jeff and mention this podcast episode: hello@storygreenlight.com   Get a FREE copy of these books all accounting professionals should use to work on their business and become profitable.  These are a must-have addition to every accountant's library to provide quality CFO & Advisory services as a Profit & Growth Expert today: “Red to BLACK in 30 days – A small business accountant's guide to QUICK turnarounds” – This is a how-to guide on how to turn around a struggling business into a more sustainable model. Each chapter focuses on a crucial aspect of the turnaround process - from cash flow management to strategies for improving revenue. This book will teach you everything you need to become a turnaround expert for small businesses. “in the BLACK, nine principles to make your business profitable” – Nine Principles to Make Your Business Profitable – Discover what you need to know to run the premier accounting firm and get paid what you are worth in this book, by the same author as Red to Black – CPA Allen B. Bostrom. Bostrom teaches the three major functions of business (marketing, production and accounting) as well as strategies for maximizing profitability for your clients by creating actionable plans to implement the nine principles. “Your Strategic Accountant” - Understand the 3 Core Accounting Services you should offer as you run your business. help your clients understand which numbers they need to know to make more informed business decisions. “Your Profit & Growth Expert” - Your business is an asset. You should know its value and understand how to maximize it. Beginning with the end in mind helps you work ON your business to build a company you can leave so that it can continue to exist in your absence or build wealth as you retire and enjoy the time, freedom, and life you want and deserve. Learn what it is you can do to become an author, leveraging your expertise to market your services effectively and get the clients you deserve.  This is a webinar you don't want to miss.  Learn from Mike Capuzzi what a Shook is and how you can use it to position yourself as the Premier Accounting Firm in your area.  This is a must-see presentation so get ready to take some great notes.   In addition to becoming an author, see what you can do to follow the Turnkey Business plan for accounting professionals.  After more than 40 years we've identified the best practices of successful accountants and this is a presentation we are happy to share.  Check it out and see what you can do to be in business for yourself but not by yourself with Universal Accounting Center.   It's here you can become a:   Professional Bookkeeper, PB Professional Tax Preparer, PTP Profit & Growth Expert, PGE   Next, join a group of like-minded professionals within the accounting community.  Stay up-to-date on current topics and trends and see what you can do to also give back, participating in relevant conversations as they relate to offering quality accounting services and building your bookkeeping, accounting & tax business.   The Accounting & Bookkeeping Tips Facebook Group The Universal Accounting Fanpage Topical Newsletters: Universal Accounting Success The Universal Newsletter   Lastly, get your Business Score to see what you can do to work ON your business and have the Premier Accounting Firm. Join over 70,000 business owners and get your score on the 8 Factors That Drive Your Company's Value.   For Additional FREE Resources for accounting professionals check out this collection HERE!   Be sure to join us for GrowCon, the LIVE event for accounting professionals to work ON their business. This is a conference you don't want to miss.   Remember this, Accounting Success IS Universal. Listen to our next episode and be sure to subscribe.   Also, let us know what you think of the podcast and please share any suggestions you may have.  We look forward to your input: Podcast Feedback   For more information on how you can apply these principles to start and build your accounting, bookkeeping & tax business please visit us at www.universalaccountingschool.com or call us at 8012653777

“Standing out is great, but conversion is crucial.” – Jason Swenk It's hard to build a business if you don't invest in systems.” – Jason Swenk The finer details of this episode:Analysis and insights on building a strong email listSales cycle and close percentageUnique marketing strategiesImportance of systems in building a successful businessConcept of "land and expand"Effectiveness of email marketing campaignsProviding quick financial statements with industry comparisonImportance of creativity and innovation in marketing strategies Episode resources:Summit Virtual CFO by Anders website: https://www.summitcpa.net/Love our content? Sign up for our newsletter: https://www.summitcpa.net/summit-newsletterDigital Dollars and Cents: A Virtual CFO's Playbook to help Digital Companies Create a Financial Roadmap to Success, is now an audio book! Download it here: https://vcfo.summitcpa.net/ddcCatch the full episode of What All Successful Agencies Have in Common: How to Separate from the Pack, with Tim Condon here: https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/what-all-successful-agencies-have-in-common-how-to/id870206013?i=1000653823029Check out Jason here: https://jasonswenk.com/ Timestamps:The welcome (00:00:00)Introduction to the show "Creative Agency Success Show" and its purpose.Discussing Jason Swank's podcast (00:00:15)Introduction to the podcast "The Smart Agency Podcast" and its relevance to the speakers.Analyzing the podcast episode (00:00:43)Introducing the episode featuring Tim Condon and discussing its potential impact on the audience.Building a strong email list (00:02:20)Discussion on the importance of building a strong email list and the shift in the agency's marketing strategy.The importance of conversion (00:04:52)Emphasizing the importance of conversion in marketing efforts and its relevance to the audience.Sales cycle and close percentage (00:06:11)Analyzing the sales cycle and close percentage, comparing industry standards, and sharing insights on reducing the sales cycle.Unique marketing strategy (00:11:15)Exploring a unique marketing strategy involving leveraging established brands to generate leads and its implications.Best piece of advice for leaders (00:12:30)Discussing the best piece of advice for leaders, focusing on utilizing assets and generating what is needed.Using current assets for sales process (00:14:03)Sharing an example of using current assets to establish credibility and aid the sales process.Campaign carnival (00:16:53)Discussing a unique marketing campaign involving giving away free pizza to generate leads and its success in achieving lead opportunities.Building a Business with Hefty Systems (00:18:08)Discussion on the importance of investing in systems for scaling and duplication in marketing and sales.Developing a Sales Process (00:19:13)Insight on creating a sales process and thought leadership approach for client acquisition.Effective Email Marketing Campaign (00:26:44)The effectiveness of targeted email marketing and the innovation of using a pizza giveaway program for email acquisition.Land and Expand Sales Strategy (00:29:00)The concept of quick sales to establish trust and expand client relationships, with a focus on providing a low-cost financial statement as an entry point.

“We want to have conversations that are meaningful, that are impactful, and I can guarantee you that we are walking away from these conversations trying to implement these in our organization and our community.” – Ayo Owodunni The finer details of this episode:Importance of inclusive leadership and challenges in embracing diversity, equity, and inclusion (DEI) initiativesBusiness case for DEI and its positive impact on profitability and revenue in companiesBuilding trust and connection with diverse team membersAddressing privilege and mindset shift in viewing people as assetsLeveraging different perspectives to drive innovation and successImportance of fostering inclusive leadership and embracing diversityBuilding trust and rapport in coachingValue of emotional intelligence in coaching and leadershipT-GROW model for coaching conversationsT-GROW model for setting and achieving goals Episode resources:Summit Virtual CFO by Anders website: https://www.summitcpa.net/Email us with questions or if you'd like to be a guest on the show: youngcpasuccessshow@anderscpa.comWe're hiring! Check out our open positions: https://www.summitcpa.net/career-opportunitiesConnect with Ayo here: https://www.linkedin.com/in/ayoowodunni/Check out Ayo here: www.ayoowo.com Timestamps:Introduction (00:00:00)Introducing the podcast and its purpose.Importance of Inclusive Leadership (00:00:23)Discussion about the importance of inclusive leadership and the challenges in implementing diversity, equity, and inclusion initiatives.Challenges in Embracing Diversity and Inclusion (00:01:28)Exploring the challenges and potential facade in companies' investment in diversity, equity, and inclusion initiatives.The Need for Tangible Actions (00:02:11)Emphasizing the importance of real tangible actions in building inclusive communities and infrastructure.Commitment to Making a Difference (00:03:11)Expressing the commitment to meaningful and impactful conversations to incite change in the organization and industry.Leadership and Psychological Safety (00:04:09)Discussing the importance of psychological safety and leadership at all levels in organizations.Background of the Guest (00:07:05)Ayo introduces himself and his expertise in management consulting and inclusive leadership.Embracing Privilege and Inclusivity (00:10:30)Encouraging the embrace of privilege and using it for the good of communities and emphasizing the common goals and connections among individuals.Shifting Mindset on Diversity and Inclusion (00:13:27)Highlighting the importance of shifting the mindset from considering diversity and inclusion as expenses to viewing them as investments and assets.Business Case for Diversity and Inclusion (00:14:26)Presenting business cases and studies that demonstrate the benefits of diversity, equity, and inclusion initiatives in organizations.Building Trust and Connection (00:19:11)Strategies for developing relationships, connecting with diverse team members, and fostering trust within the team.Building Trust and Rapport (00:20:04)Strategies for building trust and rapport, including asking personal questions and using personality assessments.Importance of Emotional Intelligence (00:24:57)Discussion on the importance of emotional intelligence in leadership and business relationships.Empathy and Cultural Understanding (00:25:20)The value of empathy and understanding different cultural backgrounds in leadership and management.Fostering Relationships and Trust (00:27:21)Anecdotes and insights on the importance of fostering relationships and trust in the workplace, including a story about cultural adaptation.Continuous Relationship Building (00:32:09)The need for ongoing and intentional relationship building and fostering trust in coaching and leadership.Different Types of Coaching (00:36:10)Exploration of on-the-spot coaching and long-term coaching, and the importance of distinguishing between the two in coaching relationships.Developing Executive Presence (00:39:33)Discussion on creating a plan for developing executive presence, including setting goals, identifying realities, exploring options, and planning the way forward.Application of T-GROW Model in CPA Exam Preparation (00:43:20)Comparison of using the T-GROW model to break down the CPA exam into manageable chunks for better success and its practical applications beyond coaching.Personal Goal Setting Using T-GROW Model (00:44:13)Exploration of using the T-GROW model for personal goal setting and self-coaching, emphasizing the importance of a growth mindset and accountability.The Power of Asking the Right Questions (00:46:06)Importance of asking the right questions as a coach, fostering collaboration, and empowering individuals to think and come up with their own ideas.Practical Applications of T-GROW Model (00:47:02)The effectiveness of coaching through asking questions and helping individuals own their ideas, with practical examples from coaching experiences.Community Engagement and Personal Interests (00:50:48)Ayo's involvement in connecting with the community, exploring diverse activities, and personal interests in reading and writing.Book Recommendation and Leadership Insights (00:52:24)Ayo's current reading, "Leading" by George B. Cuff, and its relevance to leadership, emphasizing the importance of asking quality questions.Connect with Io (00:53:38)Ayo's contact information for connecting on LinkedIn, Instagram, or visiting the website.Closing Remarks (00:54:18)Thanking Ayo for the insightful discussion and expressing interest in future webinars, followed by a brief advertisement for career opportunities.

“The total relationship is about making life better for the client, focusing on what they need in the next 6 to 12 months, and helping them prioritize their financial decisions.” –Tyson RayThe finer details of this episode:The concept of the "total relationship" in financial planningThe importance of understanding clients' short-term goals and concernsThe role of wealth advisors in understanding clients' motivations and aspirationsProactive planning and collaboration between financial advisors, CPAs, and attorneysEducating clients about tax planning, investment decisions, and trade-offsSeeking deeper, more fulfilling connections beyond just financial mattersEpisode resources:Summit Virtual CFO by Anders website: https://www.summitcpa.net/If you have questions or would like to be a guest on the show, email us at mcpasuccessshow@anderscpa.comCheck out the Virtual CFO Playbook Course: https://vcfoplaybook.summitcpa.net/Connect with Tyson here: https://www.linkedin.com/in/tysonray/Check out Form Wealth Advisors here: https://formwealth.com/Tyson's resources mentioned in the episode: https://totalrelationship.com/moderncpa Timestamps:The welcome and introduction (00:00:00)Introduction to the podcast and the mission of providing insights for accounting firms. Guest introduction and perspective (00:00:30)Discussion about the unique perspective of the guest, Tyson Ray, and the value he brings to the audience. Introduction to the show and guest (00:00:53)The host and guest host introduce themselves and welcome the audience to the show. Tyson Ray's background and mission (00:01:19)Tyson Ray introduces himself, his role, and his mission to help clients and the community. The total relationship and client value (00:02:43)Discussion about the importance of understanding the client's needs and building a valuable relationship. Expanding services and expertise (00:03:40)Tyson Ray's decision to expand his expertise and focus on business exit planning. The Total Relationship book (00:05:05)Introduction to the book "The Total Relationship" and its focus on client relationships and communication. Client-focused planning approach (00:06:31)Explanation of the three parts of the total relationship: life plan, wealth plan, and care plan. Client relationship parallels (00:08:10)Discussion about the similarities in client-focused approaches between wealth management and financial business services. Prioritizing client needs (00:08:31)The importance of prioritizing client needs and guiding them through their financial journey. Life plan and client background (00:10:04)Exploration of the life plan, including family, health, and personal goals, to better understand the client's needs. Client's family and personal life (00:11:28)The significance of understanding the client's family dynamics, including parents, children, and personal experiences. Life plan and client's lifestyle (00:14:18)Discussion about the life plan, including travel, recreation, home improvements, and major purchases, to enhance the client's lifestyle. Client's life plan and financial decisions (00:15:53)The importance of aligning financial decisions with the client's life plan and rewarding themselves for their hard work. The Total Relationship and client permission (00:17:10)Exploration of the client's permission to prioritize their life plan and the role of advisors in supporting their goals. Life Plan (00:19:16)Advisors asking forward-looking questions, encouraging clients to enjoy their wealth and plan for personal goals. Virtual CFO Playbook (00:19:57)Promotion of a comprehensive online series to equip firms with essential tools for scalable CFO services. Wealth Advisor Conversations (00:20:40)Discussing the process of building trust with clients, understanding motivations, and opening conversations about personal and business goals. Life Plan and Wealth Plan Intersection (00:22:03)Exploring the connection between life and wealth plans, emphasizing the importance of understanding clients' personal and business needs. Wealth Plan Proactivity (00:23:58)Identifying cash management, business debt, and proactive planning to navigate financial crises and business transitions. Business Succession and Life Plan (00:27:03)Addressing business owners' plans for exiting their businesses, including transitions and contingency planning. Collaboration and Tax Planning (00:28:50)Highlighting the benefits of collaboration between financial advisors, CPAs, and law firms for better client outcomes. Future-Focused Financial Advice (00:30:44)Emphasizing the importance of future-focused financial advice and the collaboration between wealth management and tax planning. Caring for Financial Future (00:31:23)Reminding clients of their goals, proactive service, and helping clients make informed financial decisions. Personal Wealth Building (00:34:09)Encouraging clients to consider personal wealth-building options and the impact on business sustainability. Tax Planning and Client Education (00:35:01)Educating clients on tax deductions, structure, planning, and the importance of making informed financial decisions. Wealth Building Strategies (00:35:49)Encouraging personal wealth building for business owners to reduce stress and secure financial stability. Roth Tax-Free and Deductions (00:36:45)Navigating discussions on Roth tax-free options, deductions, and the impact on future tax liabilities. Client Engagement and Care Plan (00:37:48)Frequency of client engagement, revisiting life plans, and maintaining a standard cadence for care planning. Clients' Meeting Frequency (00:37:48)Tyson discusses the importance of tailoring meeting frequency to clients' needs and life events. Adjusting Meeting Frequency (00:38:42)Tyson explains how the frequency of client meetings should be adjusted based on the rhythm of life and life events. Over-servicing Clients (00:39:37)Tyson shares his experience of over-servicing clients and emphasizes the need to align service frequency with clients' actual needs. Client Scheduling Expectations (00:41:11)Jamie and Tyson discuss the importance of understanding clients' preferences for meeting schedules and setting expectations. Final Thoughts and Relationship Building (00:43:51)Adam and Tyson emphasize the value of building relationships and learning from professionals in different industries. Virtual Relationship Building (00:45:04)Tyson highlights the opportunity to build relationships virtually and reach clients beyond traditional demographics. Securities through Raymond James Financial Services, Inc. Member FINRA / SIPC. Investment advisory services are offered through Raymond James Financial Services Advisors Inc.  FORM Wealth Advisors is not a registered broker/dealer and is independent of Raymond James Financial Services. Raymond James and its advisors do not provide tax advice. Podcast guest is Tyson Ray, CEO, Founding Partner, Senior Wealth Advisor at FORM Wealth Advisors. FORM Wealth Advisors is located at 431 Geneva National Ave S, Lake Geneva, WI, 53147; 262-686-3005.  

“As you're building your business, you're building your agency, you're going to realize that there's some prospects that are just not right. You have to go through that Vegas buffet and get sick and food poisoning because you overate and you ate a lot of the bad shit and you tell yourself, ‘I'm not going to eat those raw craw legs anymore.'” -Jason Swenk The finer details of this episode:Jason Swenk's journey from agency owner to consultant and mastermind leaderImportance of knowing target audience and sales process for agency successValue of creating a community of like-minded individuals through mastermindsEmphasis on maintaining a high-quality community over quantity in mastermind groupsImportance of building strong client relationships and conducting thorough researchUnique approach to hiring by setting specific instructions for applicants to followSignificance of qualifying leads early in the sales processValue of personal challenges and experiences in shaping one's perspective and approach to business Episode resources:Summit Virtual CFO by Anders website: https://www.summitcpa.net/Love our content? Sign up for our newsletter: https://www.summitcpa.net/summit-newsletterDigital Dollars and Cents: A Virtual CFO's Playbook to help Digital Companies Create a Financial Roadmap to Success, is now an audio book! Download it here: https://vcfo.summitcpa.net/ddcConnect with Jason here: https://www.linkedin.com/in/jasonswenk/Listen to Jason's podcast here: https://www.agencymastery360.com/podcastCheck out Agency Mastery 360 here: https://jasonswenk.com/Subscribe to Jason's YouTube channel here: https://www.youtube.com/jasonswenk Timestamps:Accidental Agency Owner (00:00:00)Jason's accidental entry into the agency world and his agency's growth and eventual sale.Transition to Consulting (00:03:08)Jason's transition from running an agency to helping other agency owners and the inspiration behind his consulting practice.Mastermind Community (00:04:45)Jason's approach to running a mastermind community, its structure, and the experiences it offers to its members.Exclusive Mastermind (00:08:28)Jason's encounter with an exclusive mastermind and his decision to create a more genuine and impactful community.Client Relationships (00:11:51)Jason's insights on maintaining client relationships and the importance of delivering exceptional service.Attract, Convert, Scale Methodology (00:14:32)Jason's methodology for agency growth, focusing on attracting ideal clients, converting leads, and scaling the business.Interviewing and Hiring (00:20:27)Jason's advice on the interviewing process and the importance of knowing oneself and researching the client or employer.Research and Applications (00:21:34)Discussion on the importance of research in job applications and disqualifying uninterested candidates.Lack of Research in Agency Pitching (00:22:47)Personal anecdotes about pitching without proper research and the consequences.Budgeting and Sales Process (00:25:48)Strategies for asking for a budget in the sales process and the importance of understanding the client's budget.Personal Question: Epic Experiences (00:30:29)Sharing personal epic experiences, including hang gliding, paragliding, and winter backpacking.Agency Mastery 360 (00:35:52)Information on accessing free resources and masterclasses for building the ultimate sales team and attracting the perfect client.

Episode Notes:“Our mission is to educate, inspire, and support accountants, financial advisors, and CFOs who are representing a client with a need for any type of entity filings, entity setup, entity expansion, or payroll tax registration services.” – Nellie AkalpThe finer details of this episode:Services offered by CorpNet and their benefits for accountants and clientsChallenges faced by accountants in providing comprehensive services to their clientsImportance of accountants offering entity filings, setup, expansion, and payroll tax registration servicesCorpNet's partner program and its benefits for accountantsManaging compliance requirements for clients' business entitiesBenefits of outsourcing business filings and compliance tasks for accountants Episode resources:Summit Virtual CFO by Anders website: https://www.summitcpa.net/If you have questions or would like to be a guest on the show, email us at mcpasuccessshow@anderscpa.comCheck out the Virtual CFO Playbook Course: https://vcfoplaybook.summitcpa.net/Connect with Nellie here: https://www.linkedin.com/in/nellieakalp/Check out CorpNet here: https://www.corpnet.com/ Timestamps:Introduction to podcast (00:00:00)Introduction to the podcast, mission statement, and topics covered. Overview of CorpNet.com services (00:00:58)Introduction to CorpNet.com and its services for accountants and their clients. Nellie Akalp's entrepreneurial journey (00:01:18)Nellie Akalp shares her entrepreneurial journey and the vision behind CorpNet.com. Challenges faced by accountants (00:05:06)Discussion on the challenges accountants face in offering comprehensive services to their clients. Benefits of CorpNet.com partner program (00:11:09)Explanation of the benefits of CorpNet.com's partner program for accountants. Core services offered by CorpNet.com (00:17:14)Description of the core services provided by CorpNet.com, including business filings, compliance, and payroll tax registration. Impact of COVID-19 on CorpNet.com (00:19:22)Discussion on the increased demand for services during COVID-19, particularly regarding payroll registration in multiple states. Differences in starting a company in the past and present (00:22:26)Comparison of the entrepreneurial experience in the past and present, including the challenges and differences in market entry. Client consultation and advice (00:24:29)Discussion on typical new client scenarios and advice provided when starting a new company. Educational services for new business owners (00:24:44)Nellie Akalp discusses the educational aspect of CorpNet.com's services for new business owners, including guides, webinars, and podcasts. Support for accountants starting their own firm (00:25:19)Nellie Akalp explains how CorpNet.com assists accountants in starting their own firm by providing guidance, resources, and educational materials. Benefits of partnering with CorpNet.com (00:26:41)Nellie Akalp outlines the advantages for accountants in partnering with CorpNet.com, including early client engagement, business growth, and a complete advisory service. Enhancing firm capabilities through partnerships (00:28:02)The discussion centers around the benefits of partnering with CorpNet.com for small firms to offer comprehensive services and appear as a larger, full-service firm. The mistake accountants make in not offering services (00:29:49)Nellie Akalp emphasizes the missed opportunities for accountants by not offering services like entity filings and compliance, and the potential benefits of such offerings. Corporate compliance portal for accountants (00:33:19)The conversation focuses on CorpNet.com's corporate compliance portal, which simplifies tracking and monitoring compliance requirements for accountants and their clients. Challenges and consequences of compliance errors (00:40:25)The discussion highlights the challenges and consequences of compliance errors, emphasizing the importance of staying current and the potential repercussions of non-compliance. The value of corporate compliance services (00:39:27)Nellie Akalp discusses the benefits of corporate compliance services for accountants, emphasizing the time-saving and reputation-building aspects. Initiating partnership with CorpNet.com (00:45:32)Nellie Akalp provides details on initiating a partnership with CorpNet.com, including the process of signing up, onboarding, and accessing marketing materials. Account Manager and Onboarding Process (00:47:35)Discusses the benefits of having a dedicated account manager and the importance of onboarding process for success. Client Engagement and Delegation (00:48:56)Compares the process of client engagement and delegation to the success of the program. Signing Up and Partner Options (00:49:50)Provides information on how accountants can sign up for the partner program and the various options available. Contact Information and Upcoming Event (00:51:01)Shares contact details for signing up and promotes the upcoming event where CorpNet.com will be present. Podcast Promotion (00:52:47)Promotes the podcast and directs listeners to the website for more resources.  

“In the American workplace, 80% of workers feel stress on the job, and nearly half say they need help in learning how to manage stress. If your people are stressed and they're not talking to you about it, that's a clue that you need to change something in your organization.” – Joey KinneyThe finer details of this episode:●Stress management in the workplace and at home●Challenges of setting boundaries and prioritizing tasks in work-life balance●Impact of stress on personal lives and managing competing interests●Role of leaders in addressing recurring structural problems contributing to stress Episode resources:Summit Virtual CFO by Anders website: https://www.summitcpa.net/If you have questions or would like to be a guest on the show, email us at mcpasuccessshow@anderscpa.comCheck out the Virtual CFO Playbook Course: https://vcfoplaybook.summitcpa.net/For more on David Allen's Getting Things Done® approach mentioned in the episode, check out the Modern CPA Success Show's episode with Tom and David Allen: https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/getting-things-done-with-david-allen/id1485035727?i=1000595997191 Timestamps:The podcast introduction (00:00:00)Introduction to the podcast and its purpose.Discussing the intention of merging podcasts (00:00:33)Exploring the idea of merging podcasts to create intentional opportunities for audiences to interact.The impact of stress in the workplace (00:01:04)Exploring the impact of stress on individuals in the workplace and the need for stress management.Challenges in managing work-life balance (00:03:07)Challenges in compartmentalizing work and home life, and the evolving understanding of work-life balance.Statistics on workplace stress (00:04:52)Statistics on workplace stress, including the percentage of workers feeling stress and the need for stress management.Personal experience with stress and its impact on health (00:06:00)Personal experience with stress-related health issues and the impact on blood pressure.Impact of stress on decision-making and anxiety (00:09:20)The impact of stress on decision-making, anxiety triggers, and external locus of control.Managing conflicting priorities and setting boundaries (00:14:31)Strategies for managing conflicting priorities, setting boundaries, and learning to say no.Practical tips for stress management (00:16:02)Practical tips for stress management, including exercise, meditation, and acknowledging anxiety.Defining Boundaries (00:18:01)Discusses setting clear limits and commitments to avoid stress and exploding on others.Making Decisions to Reduce Stress (00:18:41)Explores the concept of making one decision now to avoid making multiple decisions later.Saying No and Prioritizing (00:19:38)Discusses the importance of saying no to tasks and commitments and prioritizing responsibilities.Recognizing Personal Limits (00:20:23)Shares experiences of struggling with certain tasks and the importance of acknowledging personal limitations.Getting Things Done Approach (00:22:55)Discusses the approach by David Allen for organizational models and stress management.Acknowledging Stress and Anxiety (00:25:21)Emphasizes the importance of acknowledging stress and anxiety instead of denying or internalizing it.Creating a Safe Space for Stress Discussions (00:26:13)Encourages leaders to create an environment where employees feel safe discussing stress and challenges.Leadership's Role in Stress Management (00:29:21)Highlights the role of leaders in initiating conversations about stress and creating a supportive environment.Addressing Structural Problems (00:32:54)Emphasizes the importance of leaders addressing recurring structural problems causing stress.Managing Stress in the Workplace (00:33:32)Encourages individuals to manage stress rather than seeking a stress-free job, acknowledging personal responsibility.Stress Management Tools (00:35:02)Discussion on effective stress management tools for creating a positive work environment and improving productivity.Closing Remarks (00:35:18)Tom expresses gratitude for the conversation, and Joey reciprocates the sentiment.

Are you ready to reframe your law firm's accounting experience and elevate your practice? In this episode, John Scott, CPA, AEP, joins us to discuss his understanding of the financial and accounting issues that law firms face today – and his unique approach to overcoming them… John is the Head of Legal VCFO at Summit Virtual CFO by Anders and a Partner in Tax at Anders CPAS + Advisors. He has worked with Anders since the early 90s and has grown with the company to help clients achieve their goals while focusing on what matters most: reaching their highest potential. In this conversation, we discuss:  The importance of making data-driven decisions.  How to break free from poor business practices.  The pros and cons of charging fixed fees.  How to maximize income and cash flow with standardized practices.  To learn more about John and his work with Anders, click here now! Take advantage of a 5% discount on Ekster accessories by using the code FINDINGGENIUS. Enhance your style and functionality with premium accessories. Visit bit.ly/3uiVX9R to explore latest collection. Episode also available on Apple Podcast: http://apple.co/30PvU9C

Jody Grunden is an accounting visionary with over 20 years of experience. He has helped pioneer innovative changes within the industry, including the introduction of the first subscription-based billing method employed by an accounting firm. He is the author of two books, Digital Dollars and Cents and Building the Virtual CFO Firm in the Cloud. Together with his partner Adam Hale, Jody co-founded Summit CPA Group in 2002. It was the first fully distributed accounting firm in the country. In 2020, Summit merged with Anders CPAs + Advisors, and is now recognized as Summit Virtual CFO by Anders. Jody's specialties include Virtual CFO Services, Creative Agencies, and Remote Team Management. Listen to this informative Sharkpreneur episode with Jody Grunden about the evolution of virtual CFO services. Here are some of the beneficial topics covered on this week's show: - How being innovative, solving problems, and always looking to improve processes and services will lead you to success. - How a virtual CFO is perfect for companies who cannot afford a full-time CFO. - Why going completely virtual fueled the firm's growth. - How having a subscription-based billing model provides clients with predictable fees. - How it's vital to document processes and maintain a strong culture during mergers. Connect with Jody: Guest Contact Info X @vcfobyanders Instagram @vcfobyanders Facebook facebook.com/vcfobyanders LinkedIn linkedin.com/company/vcfobyanders Links Mentioned: summitcpa.net Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices