Steve Cox, Director of Business Intelligence @ IRIS Software Group, shares what works for accountants and CPAs during and post busy tax seasons. Rob and Steve discuss the international prevalence of busy seasons, and the impact it has on accountants in terms of long hours, stress and mental health. Steve provides advice for accountants on how to get through busy season and how to reflect afterwards on what went well and what could improve. He emphasizes the importance of long-term planning and s...
Jan 22, 2024•25 min•Ep 51•Transcript available on Metacast Welcome to the Accounting Influencers Podcast , dropping every Monday to 40,000 accounting professionals, finance specialists, software vendors, tech providers and influencers across 150 countries in the accountancy, CPA and bookkeeping space. To participate in our international virtual speed networking events for the accounting community, go to https://accountinginfluencers.com/events and book your place at the next gathering. Great to build your personal brand and make valuable industry connec...
Jan 15, 2024•33 min•Ep 50•Transcript available on Metacast "CEO Richard Kopelman unveils Aprio's massive expansion, secret projects and shares invaluable CPA advice for global accounting success." Richard Kopelman, CEO and Managing Partner of accounting firm Aprio, shares his personal philosophy of staying positive and never giving up, the importance of having a well-written strategic plan, and his vision to have truly global accounting firms. Kopelman shares how staying positive and persistent has been key to leading Aprio's tremendous growth from $70 ...
Jan 08, 2024•13 min•Ep 49•Transcript available on Metacast "Explore the success journey of Aprio, a Top 30 US Accounting Firm, with CEO Richard Kopelman. Gain insights from overseeing 25+ strategic mergers & acquisitions." Richard Kopelman, CEO and Managing Partner of Aprio, discusses the exciting transformation and rebranding of HA&W into a global business advisory and accounting firm. He explores the high demand for accounting services due to changes in business, regulatory requirements, and technology. A key challenge for accounting firms, ac...
Jan 01, 2024•19 min•Ep 48•Transcript available on Metacast Jennifer Warawa is a trailblazer in the accounting world. She's the North American president of a leading firm, a self-made entrepreneur, and even a foster parent. However, her standout achievement isn't just financial—it's a remarkable employee net promoter score (NPS) above 60. Her workplace thrives on purpose, passion, and even a few laughs, like the notorious beanbag chair mishap. Learn how to build a company culture where employees are genuinely happy and engaged. Dive into the world of dig...
Dec 25, 2023•22 min•Ep 47•Transcript available on Metacast The Art of Saying No & Other Productivity Strategies with Mark Fritz Mark Fritz focuses on the vital topic of saying no and setting boundaries. Mark highlights the significance of being assertive and maintaining focus to say no to various demands and requests effectively. He emphasises the value of listening and understanding the perspective of others when communicating a refusal. Mark also discusses the challenges busy professionals face, particularly accountants, who often feel overwhelmed...
Dec 18, 2023•24 min•Ep 46•Transcript available on Metacast Rob Brown interviews Marina Koijmans, a talent and workplace expert, on the topic of talent management and upskilling in the accounting profession. Marina begins by explaining the challenges of talent management in today's rapidly changing world. She highlights the importance of reskilling and upskilling due to the ever-changing marketplace and the need for organizations to adapt and stay relevant. She mentions that technology-driven change and innovation are key drivers of this need for new ski...
Dec 11, 2023•20 min•Ep 45•Transcript available on Metacast Rob interviews Jeff Gramlich from Validis. They discuss various topics related to the accounting profession and the role of technology in driving efficiency and quality. Jeff shares insights on the paradigm shift towards data-driven audits and the impact of technology on the industry. They also explore the challenges of attracting and retaining talent in the accounting profession. Jeff highlights the difference between good and great accounting firms and the importance of technology adoption in ...
Dec 04, 2023•22 min•Ep 44•Transcript available on Metacast Rob Brown interviews Chirag Shah, the founder and CEO of Nucleus Commercial Finance, a UK-focused lender. Chirag discusses the challenges and opportunities in the financial space, particularly in lending and funding. He also talks about the importance of financial analysis and forecasting for businesses, emphasizing the need for businesses to understand their cash flow and plan effectively. The interview highlights the role of accountants and advisors in helping businesses make sound financial d...
Nov 27, 2023•22 min•Ep 43•Transcript available on Metacast Understanding the Vendor-Accountant Relationship and the Future of Events in Accounting In this episode of the Accounting Influencers Podcast, host Rob Brown conducts an in-depth interview with Seth Feinberg, author of the Feinberg Review. They discuss the evolving relationship between tech vendors and accountants, including the trust issues and the need for vendors to better understand accountants' needs. Seth highlights the role of events for vendors to directly communicate with their target m...
Nov 20, 2023•41 min•Ep 42•Transcript available on Metacast Rob Brown welcomes Stuart Pedley-Smith, Chief Learning Officer at Kaplan Financial, to discuss the evolving landscape of qualifications and their relevance in today's finance and accounting profession. Stuart, with over 25 years of experience in accountancy education, shares insights into the changing roles of finance professionals, emphasizing the need to adapt to technological advancements. The discussion explores the importance of maintaining core principles while incorporating new tools and ...
Nov 13, 2023•31 min•Ep 41•Transcript available on Metacast Des O'Neil shares his insights on helping accountants and bookkeepers realize their full potential and make a real impact on their clients. He emphasizes the importance of finding joy and passion in one's business and highlights that it's never too late to change direction for better results. Des also discusses the difference between authentic influencers and those who may not provide genuine value. Simplifying business and life comes down to clarity and understanding what you want, setting boun...
Nov 06, 2023•25 min•Ep 40•Transcript available on Metacast We have the honor of hosting Sarah Ghosh, the President of CIMA (Chartered Institute of Management Accountants). Sarah provides insights into the dynamic world of management accounting and its relevance in today's business landscape. With a diverse membership representing various roles and industries, CIMA is at the forefront of shaping the future of finance professionals. Sarah discusses the evolving responsibilities of accountants, from embracing technology and sustainability to promoting incl...
Oct 30, 2023•28 min•Ep 39•Transcript available on Metacast Rob Brown sits down with Calvin Harris, the CEO of the New York State Society of CPAs. Calvin discusses his role in leading the organization that represents CPAs in New York State and beyond. He shares his perspective on being a CPA and the importance of the credential. Calvin talks about the challenges and opportunities facing the accounting profession today, emphasizing the need for CPAs to demonstrate their relevance in a changing landscape. He highlights the role of technology, communication...
Oct 23, 2023•37 min•Ep 38•Transcript available on Metacast Rob Brown were joined by a true visionary in the world of finance and entrepreneurship, Adam Lean. Adam Lean's journey from accountant to two-time entrepreneur is nothing short of remarkable. He's built, scaled, and successfully sold two businesses, all while honing his expertise in financial management. Today, he's the driving force behind The CFO Project, a training company that equips financial professionals with the skills to provide outsourced CFO and business advisory services. Join us as ...
Oct 16, 2023•27 min•Ep 37•Transcript available on Metacast Rob Brown has the the privilege of hosting Richard Francis, the visionary Founder and CEO of Spotlight Reporting. As a global business intelligence software company dedicated to serving accounting firms and CFOs, Spotlight Reporting has been at the forefront of transforming the accounting profession. Richard takes us on a journey through his personal and professional evolution, from his early days in accounting to the pivotal moment when he saw the need for revolutionary reporting, forecasting, ...
Oct 09, 2023•33 min•Ep 36•Transcript available on Metacast Martin Bissett featuring Gordon King from The World of Twist, the conversation delves into the intersection of creativity and accounting in the music industry. Gordon King shares insights into the rise and fall of The World of Twist, a band he co-founded, shedding light on the financial dynamics within the group. As creative professionals navigating the music scene, the band members initially had little business acumen and entrusted their manager with handling finances. Gordon reflects on the na...
Oct 07, 2023•45 min•Ep 35•Transcript available on Metacast Join host Rob Brown on this captivating episode of the Accounting Influencers Podcast as he dives deep into the entrepreneurial mindset with special guest Nathan Hirsch. Nathan, a lifelong entrepreneur, is renowned for his unique focus on the often overlooked but vital aspects of entrepreneurship: bookkeeping and hiring. As the mastermind behind EcomBalance/AccountsBalance and Outsource School, Nathan has a wealth of wisdom to share about his journey and insights. Nathan's entrepreneurial journe...
Oct 02, 2023•33 min•Ep 35•Transcript available on Metacast In this episode, we are joined by Paul Barnhurst, an experienced financial planning and analysis (FP&A) professional. Paul shares his expertise in differentiating accounting from FP&A, highlighting how FP&A brings a forward-looking finance lens to guide strategic decision-making. Discover the critical role FP&A plays in budgeting, forecasting, and partnering with business leaders. Paul also sheds light on the essential social skills that complement technical expertise and elevate...
Sep 25, 2023•27 min•Ep 34•Transcript available on Metacast In this episode, Terrell Turner, an accounting professional, shares his career journey from technical accounting to launching his own firm. He highlights the evolving role of accountants, shifting from working in the background with numbers to taking the front line in driving business decisions and influencing organizations. Terrell emphasizes the importance of accountants becoming entrepreneurs and business owners, engaging in conversations about overall business strategy to add maximum value t...
Sep 18, 2023•27 min•Ep 33•Transcript available on Metacast In this episode, Jen Cryder, the CEO of the Pennsylvania Institute of CPAs (PICPA), shares her journey from an English major to a successful career in accounting. Representing around 20,000 accounting and finance professionals in Pennsylvania, PICPA serves as a unique state society dedicated to empowering bookkeepers and CPAs alike. Jen emphasizes the importance of diversity within the profession, where PICPA's membership includes college and high school students exploring accounting careers, pr...
Sep 11, 2023•27 min•Ep 32•Transcript available on Metacast Steven Hoffman delves into the dynamic changes taking place in the accounting industry driven by cloud-based technology and advisory services. He emphasizes the significance of controllership, providing real-time financial information, and becoming a business coach to clients through advisory roles. The pandemic has accelerated the adoption of cloud-based solutions, transforming the way businesses operate and how accountants offer their services. Steven discusses the increasing importance of con...
Sep 04, 2023•30 min•Ep 31•Transcript available on Metacast Adam Lean delves into the challenges accountants encounter in their quest to increase their income and the struggle to break free from being perceived as mere commodities. He emphasizes the need for accountants to transition into trusted advisors for small and medium-sized businesses, guiding them towards success and growth. Traditionally, accountants have been focused on recording the past, but Adam argues that they hold the potential to become forward-focused advisors, helping their clients ma...
Aug 28, 2023•27 min•Ep 30•Transcript available on Metacast Okorie Ramsey discusses his role and responsibilities as part of the global board supporting approximately 700,000 members worldwide highlighting three priorities: driving innovation, instilling integrity in sustainability areas, and supporting the next generation of accountants and the importance of leveraging technology, such as AI, to advance the profession and attract top-tier talent. He also addresses challenges in the pipeline of accounting professionals, including birth rates, education c...
Aug 21, 2023•26 min•Ep 29•Transcript available on Metacast Randy Johnston shares insights from his experience at AICPA Engage. The event was abuzz with discussions around artificial intelligence (AI), with several major players in attendance. Randy highlights the significance of the event, including the 40 under 40 influencer meeting and the recognition of the most powerful women in accounting. He mentions engaging conversations with CEOs and CTOs, delving into product strategies and insights. Over the years, the focus of the event has shifted from low-...
Aug 14, 2023•38 min•Ep 28•Transcript available on Metacast Hannah Munro emphasizes the importance of seeing transformation as an ongoing journey in the finance industry. Hannah, as a consultant, works with fast-growing businesses to reorient their processes, people, and technology to create an automated finance team. She discusses the challenges of transformation projects and highlights the need for clear objectives and measurable success metrics. Hannah emphasizes the significance of technology, process adaptation, and accurate data management for succ...
Aug 07, 2023•30 min•Ep 27•Transcript available on Metacast Jim Bourke shares insights on growing accounting firms through advisory services. He emphasizes the ever-changing nature of the profession and the importance of embracing technology as the driving force behind advisory practices. Jim discusses the need to align technology infrastructure with advisory goals, highlighting the selection of best-of-breed technologies and the impact of legacy systems on transformation. He emphasizes the role of accountants as trusted advisors and explores various adv...
Jul 31, 2023•27 min•Ep 26•Transcript available on Metacast Welcome to the Accounting Influencers Podcast , going live every Monday to 150 countries and 30,000 accounting practitioners, fintech specialists and influencers in the accountancy, CPA and bookkeeping space. In this episode of the Accounting Influencers Podcast, guest Justin Grant discusses the image problem in the accounting profession, citing a decline in accounting degree enrollment and a shortage of skilled professionals. He suggests that leaders should prioritize creating a better work env...
Jul 28, 2023•38 min•Transcript available on Metacast Hannah Munro, the Managing Director of itas shares insights on driving change and transformation in accounting firms. Hannah explains that change goes beyond technology and emphasizes the importance of discussing all aspects surrounding technology that contribute to successful change and transformation. She highlights the value of speaking with respected individuals and experts in the field, providing inspiration and actionable advice. The CFO 4.0 podcast, hosted by Hannah, focuses on the future...
Jul 24, 2023•24 min•Ep 25•Transcript available on Metacast Welcome to the Accounting Influencers Podcast , going live every Monday to 150 countries and 30,000 accounting practitioners, fintech specialists and influencers in the accountancy, CPA and bookkeeping space. In this episode, Rebecca Milhalic discusses the importance of recognizing women who are making a difference in their communities and the accounting profession. The focus is on women who have taken action and actively contributed to improving lives. The conversation highlights the need for r...
Jul 21, 2023•29 min•Transcript available on Metacast 
