In this solo episode Heather Smith shares her proven process for creating impactful presentations, from topic selection to AI tools, helping accountants communicate with clarity, confidence, and audience engagement. The accompanying article to this podcast appeared in Karbon Magazine : https://karbonhq.com/resources/creating-impactful-presentations/ In this episode, we talk about . . . Key Topics: Choosing a clear, focused topic tied to your strengths. Event prep checklist (theme, audience, timi...
Aug 13, 2025•43 min•Ep. 248
Tony Harcourt CEO & Co-Founder of WorkGuru Tony Harcourt returns to chat with Heather about WorkGuru’s recent product updates, the challenges facing SMEs, and the role of automation and integrations in improving day-to-day operations. Summary Today I’m speaking with Tony Harcourt CEO & Co-Founder of WorkGuru WorkGuru is a Project Management solution tailored for SMEs in manufacturing, construction, engineering, and fabrication. In this episode, we talk about . . . WorkGuru Highlights: Ce...
Aug 07, 2025•33 min•Ep. 247
Heather Smith and Tyler Caskey explore major Q4 tech updates, from payroll developments to NetSuite integrations, AI trends, multi-entity reporting, and smarter expense and project tools. Today I’m speaking with Tyler Caskey, Founder at The Bean Counter. In this episode, we talk about . . . industry insights and key accounting technology updates from April to June 2025. We highlight the competition in HR and payroll, noting Rippling's market leadership, Employment Hero's implementation improveme...
Jul 31, 2025•1 hr 1 min•Ep. 246
Your clients are using ChatGPT. Your clients are going to try to do their accounts and their tax using ChatGPT. Your clients are going to ask you questions generated from ChatGPT. Your clients are going to ask you why you have not deducted THIS because ChatGPT suggested it. Your clients are going to come to you with “the work finished by ChatGPT” and they are going to ask you to give it a quick look over and remind you that you should not charge them as much because ChatGPT has done the bulk of ...
Jul 28, 2025•10 min•Ep. 245
Today I’m speaking with Miquel Palet, Founder of GetInvoice Miquel Palet is a Barcelona-based entrepreneur and product leader, known for founding Ucademy, an edtech platform, and GetInvoice, a tool for automating invoice retrieval from emails and other sources. With a background in engineering from Universitat Politècnica de Catalunya, Miquel combines technical expertise with a passion for simplifying business processes. His ventures reflect a commitment to innovation and user-centric solutions....
Jul 02, 2025•20 min•Season 5Ep. 244
Today I’m speaking with Cloudoffis co-founders Viral Kanabar and Manish Sheladia In this episode, we talk about . . . Cloudoffis' journey from SMSF audit automation to AI-first tax workpaper solution, TaxSorted. Their goal is to create a complete cloud-based operating system for accounting firms. The shift from manual processes (PDFs, Excel) to seamless AI-enhanced workflows. The importance of integrations with BGL, Class, FYI Docs, and the ATO. Key challenges facing accounting firms: time pover...
May 21, 2025•46 min•Season 5Ep. 243
Today I’m speaking with Colin Hewitt, Founder & CEO of Float In this episode, we talk about . . . Evolution of cash flow forecasting from spreadsheets to intelligent cash flow platforms. Differences between direct and indirect cash flow forecasting. Float’s shift to support fractional CFOs and the growing need for 13-week forecasts. New features in Float: 13-week forecasting reports with click-to-detail functionality. Consolidated cash flow view for multi-entity businesses. Enhanced PDF repo...
May 15, 2025•48 min•Season 5Ep. 242
Today I’m speaking with Ryan Pearcy, founder of Digital Transformers and co-host of the Digi-Tools in ACCruel World podcast. Background: From theoretical physicist to chartered accountant with a passion for cloud technology From Theory to Tech: Ryan shares his journey from theoretical physics to founding Digital Transformers, helping accounting firms streamline systems and gain smarter insights Digital Transformation vs. App Advisory: Why true transformation is about processes, not just plugging...
Apr 16, 2025•37 min•Season 5Ep. 241
A dynamic panel explores how accountants can lead digital transformation, harness AI, train teams, and shift from compliance to advisory to stay relevant in a fast-changing tech landscape. The role of trusted advisors in leading digital transformation. Challenges in adopting new tech, especially in larger firms with undertrained internal finance teams. The critical importance of training staff and upskilling, starting from the advisory end and working backwards. Using tools like Dext and other c...
Apr 09, 2025•28 min•Season 5Ep. 240
My co-host Tyler Caskey Partner at The BeanCounters and I presented a taster of our quarterly Accounting Tech update podcast at the popular Accounting & Business Expo in Sydney. In this episode, we talk about . . . Big Software Moves: Xero retires classic invoicing and introduces drag/drop bill uploads; QuickBooks enhances Projects and Work area; MYOB adds new reminders; Easy Business adds ABA payroll. ERP & Practice App Upgrades: NetSuite introduces AI-powered “Text Enhanced,” while Xon...
Apr 02, 2025•23 min•Season 5Ep. 239
Today I’m speaking with Andrew Sims, CEO of SuiteFiles Key Learnings from this episode include: Understanding Fatigue: Decision, friction, and task fatigue impact productivity. Recognising them is the first step to overcoming them. Practical Boundaries: Setting clear work boundaries and minimising interruptions can dramatically improve focus. Calendar & Meeting Management: Colour-coded calendars, automated scheduling tools, and meeting transcribers save time and reduce cognitive overload. Di...
Mar 12, 2025•53 min•Season 5Ep. 238
As a female founder in fintech, Jo Hurley shares her journey as a tech entrepreneur learning from other sectors, selling her business to Deloitte, and how endurance sports fuel her personal growth. Today I’m speaking with Jo Hurley Chartered Accountant Motivational Speaker and Triathlete Key learnings from this episode include: Tech in Finance: How Jo leveraged technology to transform audit processes. Women in Tech: Facing industry pushback & building networks beyond finance. Selling a Busin...
Mar 05, 2025•30 min•Season 5Ep. 237
Discover how NetSuite’s new AI-powered Text Enhance feature is revolutionising finance teams, streamlining workflows, and boosting productivity with secure, business-specific automation —all while keeping data secure. Scott Wiltshire from Oracle NetSuite shares insights into AI-driven automation, its impact on finance and operations, and why Australian & NZ businesses should embrace this next-gen technology. Discover how NetSuite's new AI-powered "Text Enhanced" feature is revolutionising fi...
Feb 27, 2025•21 min•Season 5Ep. 236
🎙️ Welcome to the Accounting Apps podcast, where we spotlight trends and tools shaping the world of accounting. I'm Heather Smith, and today we’re playing a little game of Accounting Bingo for 2025! What's on the bingo card for the year ahead? We’re talking about technology, tools, and trends that are transforming our profession. Let’s dive in! 🎙️ Subscribe to the Accounting Apps newsletter here http://AccountingApps.io This is the ChatGPT podcast script I used for the episode Square 1: AI-Dri...
Jan 15, 2025•35 min•Season 5Ep. 235
Translucent CEO Michael Wood discusses the company's recent launch event, new features like automated intercompany reconciliation and custom tracking categories, and the importance of addressing data model issues for multi-entity businesses. Today I’m speaking with Michael Wood Founder & CEO of Translucent In this episode, we talk about . . . 🎯 Innovating for Multi-Entity Teams: Translucent unveils tools designed to tackle complex multi-entity challenges. 🛠️ New Features Highlighted: Granu...
Dec 11, 2024•44 min•Season 4Ep. 234
Join Heather Smith and Tyler Caskey as they share global insights from Xerocon, SuiteWorld, and beyond. Discover the latest in accounting tech—new features, strategic shifts, and practical tools to boost your practice. Here are the many reasons you should listen in! 🔹 Get Ahead with the Latest Accounting Tech: Key updates from Xerocon, SuiteWorld, and other global events to keep your practice at the cutting edge. 🔹 Learn from Industry Insights: Heather and Tyler share real-world experiences, i...
Nov 13, 2024•1 hr 15 min•Season 5Ep. 233
Gain insights from an experienced leader who has successfully scaled multiple professional services and technology companies. Learn strategies for driving innovation, improving operational efficiency, and providing real-time visibility for consulting firms. Understand how to leverage patents and intellectual property to differentiate your business. Get advice on effective leadership approaches, including the power of being a proactive listener. Today I’m speaking with Mark Orttung, CEO of Projec...
Nov 06, 2024•49 min•Season 5Ep. 232
Today's episode is part of a series of six interviews recorded at the Oracle CloudWorld and SuiteWorld conferences which were held in Las Vegas, September 2024. I encourage you to subscribe and add them all to your playlist! In this episode, I speak with Brian Chess, SVP Technology and AI, of Oracle NetSuite. Brian oversees the development and operations of NetSuite’s technology stack, platform, and AI-driven functionality. He holds a Ph.D. in Computer Engineering as well as more than a dozen pa...
Oct 30, 2024•24 min•Season 5Ep. 231
Today's episode is part of a series of six interviews recorded at the Oracle CloudWorld and SuiteWorld conferences which were held in Las Vegas, September 2024. I encourage you to subscribe and add them all to your playlist! In this episode, I speak with Matt Lowry, Chief Revenue Officer | GTM Leader at ApprovalMax. Matt is a commercially-minded and proactive revenue leader with SaaS scale-up experience. Particular areas of expertise include GTM strategy, revenue operations, sales, special proje...
Oct 23, 2024•16 min•Season 5Ep. 229
Today's episode is part of a series of six interviews recorded at the Oracle CloudWorld and SuiteWorld conferences which were held in Las Vegas, September 2024. I encourage you to subscribe and add them all to your playlist! In this episode, I speak with James Chisham, Vice President Product Management at Oracle NetSuite. James has been instrumental in advancing NetSuite's international product offerings, particularly within the EMEA region. His leadership has helped shape NetSuite’s ERP and clo...
Oct 16, 2024•22 min•Season 5Ep. 229
Today's episode is part of a series of six interviews recorded at the Oracle CloudWorld and SuiteWorld conferences which were held in Las Vegas, September 2024. I encourage you to subscribe and add them all to your playlist! In this episode, I speak with Bruce Fitzgerald, CEO, Extel Technologies, a NetSuite customer. Bruce is keenly focused on systematising processes, implementing technology, and developing people, now to meet the growing demands of competitive manufacturing. We discuss: The sel...
Oct 09, 2024•21 min•Season 5Ep. 228
Today's episode is part of a series of six interviews recorded at the Oracle CloudWorld and SuiteWorld conferences which were held in Las Vegas, September 2024. I encourage you to subscribe and add them all to your playlist! In this episode, I speak with Meredith Rowan, Group Vice President ANZ + ASEAN, Applications, Oracle. Meredith leads the strategic direction and execution of Oracle’s cloud application solutions across the region. With over 20 years of experience in the technology sector, sh...
Oct 02, 2024•29 min•Season 5Ep. 227
Today's episode is part of a series of six interviews recorded at the Oracle CloudWorld and SuiteWorld conferences which were held in Las Vegas, September 2024. I encourage you to subscribe and add them all to your playlist! In today’s episode, I speak with Scott Wiltshire, Vice President & GM, Oracle NetSuite ANZ. Scott is keen to help customers and employees identify and solve business challenges that deliver real value. I interviewed Scott Wiltshire last year, I’ll pop a link in the show ...
Sep 25, 2024•38 min•Season 5Ep. 226
Join me as I recount my journey through the vibrant Nashville Xerocon, where country spirit and tech innovation collided. In this episode, I cover: My personal takeaways from the conference Insights from the Nashville Xerocon and key product announcements Innovation from the exhibitor floor Behind the scenes of speaking at my first International Xerocon. Connecting with industry peers at events and activities around Xerocon. There are lots of links in the show notes to explore more about everyth...
Sep 19, 2024•38 min•Season 5Ep. 225
Today I’m speaking with Val Steed, Director Accountants, Zoho Corporation In this episode, we talk about . . . Zoho Corporation's journey in the accounting technology industry, from its founding in 1996 to its current position as a leading provider of integrated business solutions The company's focus on privacy, security, and long-term vision, with a family-like culture and commitment to employee retention Zoho's conservative management approach and profitability since day one, even during chall...
Aug 14, 2024•1 hr 1 min•Season 5Ep. 224
Heather Smith and Tyler Caskey, Partner at The Bean Counters discuss features, functionalities and updates in the Accounting Apps from June July 2024. Highlights from this episode include: A discussion around the importance of Apps offering training, ongoing training and training to meet different learning styles. Zohos expansion plans into Australia, and its vast platform offerings. Employment Hero's Smart Match system which checks candidate interest levels for your new jobs and auto-shortlist ...
Aug 07, 2024•1 hr 2 min•Season 5Ep. 223
Today I’m sharing with you a recording of a keynote entitled "Developing and Keeping a Competitive Advantage," given by Philip Fierlinger, co-founder of Upstock and co-founder of Xero. Philip Fierlinger discusses his experiences and insights on developing and maintaining a competitive advantage in the technology and accounting sectors. He shares his journey from working on the first smartphone at General Magic to co-founding Xero and Upstock. The talk focuses on the importance of creating extrao...
Jul 31, 2024•40 min•Season 5Ep. 222
Marc Orchard and Heather Smith discussed the importance of accountants and bookkeepers in high growth tech companies, highlighting the challenges of serving early stage companies with complex needs. They emphasised the need for upskilling and capability building, as well as the importance of building relationships in the startup ecosystem. Marc Orchard added to the conversation by discussing the integration of accounting and finance with technology, and the potential for Chartered Accountants Au...
Jul 25, 2024•20 min•Season 5Ep. 221
Join us for insightful discussion on how startups can effectively build their profiles through media. I’m sharing with you a recording of a panel session entitled “Building Your Startup's Profile with Media” This was recorded at the 2024 Tropical Innovation Festival that is held in Cairns in June. Here are the top five takeaways from our expert speakers: Understand the Media Landscape: Modern media is diverse and accessible, ranging from traditional outlets like TV and radio to digital platforms...
Jul 17, 2024•27 min•Season 5Ep. 220
Today I’m speaking with Michael King: Michael is the CEO of KFE Solutions, which is the top rated Fractional CFO firm in Dallas, Texas. He’s also the creator of The CFO Accelerator, where he helps Accountants and fractional CFOs start, scale, and optimise their advisory services. He is also the host of, The CFO Report, where he shares tips, tricks, and hacks he discovered over the past 7 + years building his fractional CFO firm. https://www.linkedin.com/in/iammichaelking/ In this episode, we tal...
Jul 11, 2024•40 min•Season 5Ep. 219
