On episode 39 of The Unique CPA , Randy Crabtree talks to Doug Veliky, Chief Strategy Officer of craft brewery Revolution in Chicago. Doug’s unusual career path started in public accounting. After being knocked back for several positions which could have combined accounting with his love of craft beer, he started an Instagram account and a blog about craft beer for fun. These ultimately helped him land his first position with Revolution. Get the full show notes and more resources at TheUniqueCPA...
Apr 20, 2021•37 min•Ep. 39
Fractional CFOs are a relatively new, fast-growing, and unique segment of the financial space. Randy talks to Terrell Turner of TLTurner Group, a fractional CFO firm that offers a wide array of services to business owners in various industries. Terrell is also the host of The Business Talk Library podcast, a series of over 200 shows and resources for business owners, entrepreneurs and professionals. Get the full show notes and more resources at TheUniqueCPA.com...
Apr 06, 2021•19 min•Ep. 38
Randy talks to Barry Devine of Tri-Merit about the incredible opportunities available with the Employee Retention Credit, or ERC, in 2021. They explain the big changes that occurred with the two most recent stimulus bills—which expanded the amount of credit available to businesses—how excess credit exceeding payroll tax liability goes back into the business as cash, and talk about potential interplays between ERC and other tax credits. Get the full show notes and more resources at TheUniqueCPA.c...
Mar 23, 2021•20 min•Ep. 37
On our new Nuts and Bolts series, Randy talks to Tom Parker and Layne Bodily, cofounders of FBP CPA . Tom and Layne started FBP with Tyler Fates in 2020 in Itasca, Illinois, with an eye towards establishing a modern accounting firm. Randy will have Tom, Layne and Tyler on in the future to check on the progress of their firm, and provide insights as to what has worked, what hasn't, and where the firm is headed as it continues to grow. Get the full show notes and more resources at TheUniqueCPA.com...
Mar 09, 2021•24 min•Ep. 36
On episode 35 of The Unique CPA, Randy has the opportunity to talk with Greg Skoda, one of two people who have built an accounting firm with a valuation in excess of $600 million. They discuss Greg's firm building exploits, and the regulatory and personal challenges Greg faced while building CBIZ over a frenetic two year period in the 90s. They also talk about Skoda Minnotti, the latest firm Greg founded, which merged with Marcum in 2019. Get the full show notes and more resources at TheUniqueCP...
Feb 23, 2021•31 min•Ep. 35
Randy talks with Matt Wheeler, Managing Partner of Wheeler Accountants and co-host of the Avocado Toast podcast, about his unique approach to promoting financial literacy. Through his podcast and other initiatives, Matt advocates for education, since people don't know just how much financial support and advice they need. The more they learn, the more likely they are to seek out professional accounting and financial services. Get the full show notes and more resources at TheUniqueCPA.com...
Feb 09, 2021•23 min•Ep. 34
On Episode 33, Randy talks with Mark Koziel, CEO of Allinial Global, who discusses the unique challenges (and advantages) of taking over that role in the midst of the pandemic, accounting firms' status as "the ultimate trusted advisor" to the companies they serve, the need for cooperation among accounting firms as technology and automation transform the profession, the importance of correctly pricing flat fee services, and much more. Get the full show notes and more resources at TheUniqueCPA.com...
Jan 26, 2021•37 min•Ep. 33
Randy talks to Bob Lewis, who was recently named one of Accounting Today's Top 100 Most Influential People in Accounting, about how CPA firms must position themselves to adapt to changes—especially as Covid rages on. Bob gives his insights into the best ways to develop prospects and referral sources, cross-selling strategies, the importance of a market niche, and the best ways for firms to position themselves through mergers and acquisitions. Get the full show notes and more resources at TheUniq...
Jan 12, 2021•35 min•Ep. 32
Randy is joined by Mike Pine, founder of Pine & Company CPAs, to discuss the evolution of Mike's practice. After cutting his teeth on tax in the Big Four accounting world, Mike started his own practice, subsequently merging with another firm. Since then, he has focused on low employee turnover and high client retention. He explains how he accomplished this, and how flexibility kept him able to respond to the demands of a changing market, especially amidst the upheaval of COVID. Get the full ...
Dec 29, 2020•32 min•Ep. 31
In business, especially in the world of accounting, people are often boiled down to what they bring to a firm, but not who they are. Emmy nominated writer and “Catalyst for Corporate Change“ John Garrett, himself a podcast host and author, talks to Randy about the importance of having interests, hobbies and passions outside of work. He explains how they make you a better professional, and how for him, everyone is a Unique CPA. Get the full show notes and more resources at TheUniqueCPA.com...
Dec 15, 2020•43 min•Ep. 30
One of the hottest topics in the financial world today is Data Analytics. But how does a CPA firm start utilizing analytics in its own practice, or even offer Data Analytics services to its clients? Randy talks to Jeremy Clopton, director at Upstream Academy, about the role Data Analytics can play in your firm, especially as AI and machine learning loom large—and about the future of the accounting profession in this changing landscape. Get the full show notes and more resources at https://TheUni...
Dec 01, 2020•41 min•Ep. 29
The Covid pandemic has prompted many businesses, especially accounting firms, to take stock of who and they are, where they are going, and what they need to do to continue to be successful in a changed world. Randy talks with Jon Hubbard of Boomer Consulting, who specializes in helping firms identify branding opportunities, assess their strengths, and using the eight step process known as the Firm Pipeline Builder, grow their business. Get the full show notes and more resources at https://TheUni...
Nov 17, 2020•48 min•Ep. 28
Randy sits down with Martin Moll, co-founder of Breakaway BA, who went from being a managing partner of a large CPA firm to starting a company that specializes in back office services for small and medium sized businesses. Martin talks about his fascination with and passion for what “America is really comprised of”—these integral parts of our society—and how Breakaway remains committed to “bringing joy” in everything they do. Get the full show notes and more resources at https://TheUniqueCPA.com...
Nov 03, 2020•26 min•Ep. 27
Generally speaking, selling is not a CPA's favorite thing in the world to do. But without sales and without marketing, CPAs wouldn't have any clients to do the work they actually enjoy doing, for! Randy talks with Gary Kravitz, longtime consultant and marketing professional, startup entrepreneur, and current partner with Integrated Growth Advisors, about the strategies CPAs can use to drive business to their practice. Get the full show notes and more resources at https://TheUniqueCPA.com...
Oct 20, 2020•33 min•Ep. 26
Randy talks with Alan Deichler, president of CPAmerica, about the importance for CPA firms to join associations and networks such as CPAmerica and CPA Connect. They discuss the opportunities these organizations provide for firms to share resources, clients, referrals, knowledge, and more—and most importantly, to build relationships and community. Get the full show notes and more resources at https://TheUniqueCPA.com
Oct 06, 2020•36 min•Ep. 25
What would you do if someone dropped a dream-come-true offer of international travel and an exciting career into your lap? Adam Crowson said "yes" to just such an offer, and in this episode, the CEO of Inspired Professionals shares his remarkable journey from "yes" to ultimately creating a fascinating new development program to keep firms motivated, bonded, and thriving. Get the full show notes and more resources at https://TheUniqueCPA.com
Sep 22, 2020•32 min•Ep. 24
In every accounting firm, there comes a time when managing partners will change for various reasons such as retirement. In this interesting episode, Dan McMahon, Founder and Managing Partner of Integrated Growth Advisors, shares some of the ways in which IGA prepares firms for the inevitable, as well as strategies for increasing their value prior to the firm changing hands. Get the full show notes and more resources at https://TheUniqueCPA.com
Sep 08, 2020•38 min•Ep. 23
After witnessing the inevitable burnout that happens to many in the "old school" accounting business model, Erik Solbakken knew that he was destined for a different path. Applying entrepreneurial methods to his accounting practice, soon Erik discovered an exciting new way of doing business. In this episode, he shares some of his ideas that are helping accountants all over the world find new freedom in their practices. Get the full show notes and more resources at https://TheUniqueCPA.com...
Aug 25, 2020•43 min•Ep. 22
The entire planet has been impacted by the pandemic of 2020 and we can't begin to predict if or when it will ever return to what we knew as "normal." Most certainly, it has had a profound impact on the economy in many different ways. In this episode, host Randy Crabtree discusses some of the ways in which accountants can help put money back into their clients' businesses at this critical time. Get the full show notes and more resources at https://TheUniqueCPA.com...
Aug 11, 2020•22 min•Ep. 21
At the beginning of his career as a CPA, John Bly expected to be a "lifer" at PWC. But on discovering that it was possible to buy and sell firms, everything changed. In this episode, John shares his unusual journey, which took him from being part of a two-person company with his wife to merging with 14 firms and becoming one of the fastest-growing firms in North Carolina. Get the full show notes and more resources at https://TheUniqueCPA.com
Aug 03, 2020•32 min•Ep. 20
Life and business can be stressful enough without the current global chaos caused by Covid-19. Many people are finding it difficult to stay positive and focused, especially CPAs who are immersed in a messy tax season complete with new legislation. In this episode, Robb Zbierski, speaker, trainer and coach, shares some important strategies to help keep you feeling positive and focused on your goals. Get the full show notes and more resources at https://TheUniqueCPA.com...
Jul 14, 2020•38 min•Ep. 19
Working for a couple of decades in the security and identity of a large firm offers numerous gifts of experience, learning, contacts, and more. But what happens when the decision is made to strike out on your own? In this episode, Heather Martin, CPA, discusses her journey through leaving a large CPA firm, and the planning and implementation of steps to create a new business on her own. Get the full show notes and more resources at https://TheUniqueCPA.com...
Jun 30, 2020•31 min•Ep. 18
As the world and technology continue to change rapidly, many accounting firms are diversifying and offering a range of services that are quickly becoming "the norm." In this episode, CEO and Managing Partner of Sikich LLP, Christopher Geier discusses some of the ways in which this benefits both firms and clients, as well as some interesting thoughts on their hiring philosophy. Get the full show notes and more resources at https://TheUniqueCPA.com...
Jun 16, 2020•35 min•Ep. 17
Despite transition being a constant theme in business, Skeet Haag, Managing Partner of Reynolds, Bones & Griesbeck, has taken a "right person, right seat" approach to maintaining consistency in the now 104-year-old firm, as did his predecessors. In this episode, Skeet shares some of the firm's core values as well as the impressive steps that are taken to ensure that everyone in the firm is living them. Get the full show notes and more resources at https://TheUniqueCPA.com...
Jun 01, 2020•26 min•Ep. 16
The world of accounting is changing faster than ever before. Many firms are even offering more services to their clients such as data analysis, marketing, and technology. In this episode, Michael Platt, managing principal of The Platt Group, shares information on how firms can prepare for the next recession, and insight into the needs of young professionals, including what they consider when choosing an employer. Get the full show notes and more resources at https://TheUniqueCPA.com...
May 19, 2020•38 min•Ep. 15
You don't have to be an accountant to know that tax season is their busiest time of year. In this episode, David Radke, President and Managing Partner of Williams & Company, shares his experience of having a stroke just as tax season was beginning, and the important factors that came into play to keep the firm - and his recovery - running smoothly. Get the full show notes and more resources at https://TheUniqueCPA.com
May 05, 2020•24 min•Ep. 14
Mueller prides itself on thinking outside the box. This entrepreneurial spirit is perfect given that most of the firm's clients are unique business owners with unique services and products. In this episode, CEO/ President, Dave Nissen, shares some of the many ways in which Mueller's willingness to be unique has helped the firm to expand and become an international presence while maintaining close relationships with clients. Get the full show notes and more resources at https://TheUniqueCPA.com...
Apr 21, 2020•26 min•Ep. 13
t might seem difficult to come up with anything that is exciting about state and local tax (SALT). In this episode, tax lawyer and CPA Jordan M. Goodman, shares some of the challenges that make it interesting. In particular, he discusses how changes in the world have a direct and immediate impact on tax laws, and offers examples of new situations that offer opportunities to create new laws. Get the full show notes and more resources at https://TheUniqueCPA.com...
Apr 07, 2020•39 min•Ep. 12
We are living in globally unprecedented times. No one is immune from the impact that Coronavirus is having on the world. In this episode, host Randy Crabtree interviews six leaders and experts in the world of accounting and finance who offer suggestions and insights on how accounting firms can deal with the many issues and challenges that are arising as a result of the virus. Get the full show notes and more resources at https://TheUniqueCPA.com...
Mar 25, 2020•1 hr 12 min•Ep. 11
In this episode, Jennifer Lee Wilson explains the relationship between change and convergence coaching, and how it impacts business, technology, accounting, leadership and management. She also shares some significant information regarding attraction and retention, examining your business model, and why it is essential to rethink promotion requirements. Get the full show notes and more resources at https://TheUniqueCPA.com
Mar 24, 2020•32 min•Ep. 10
