Empowering Entrepreneurs The Power of Delegating and Investing in High-Value Tasks
From owning a franchise to filing for bankruptcy? How did these experiences shape the approach to entrepreneurship?
In our latest episode, we had the privilege of interviewing Phil Whitman, a renowned CPA and certified exit planning adviser. Phil has incredible insights and experience in helping CPAs improve leadership and client experience.
Here are some Empowering Takeaways from our conversation:
1️⃣ Short-term pain for long-term gain: Phil shares the importance of making investments and decisions that may result in short-term financial sacrifices but are necessary for future success. It's about looking beyond immediate gains and focusing on the bigger picture.
2️⃣ Entrepreneurial opportunities for CPA firms: Phil believes that CPA firms are on the verge of becoming multidisciplinary consulting organizations. With the right planning and strategies, CPA firms can expand their services and create tremendous value for their clients. It's an exciting time for the accounting profession!
3️⃣ The value of a trusted adviser: Phil highlights the life-changing impact a knowledgeable adviser can have on entrepreneurs. Whether it's saving on taxes or improving operational efficiency, having an adviser who brings value and provides insights can be a game-changer. It's time we see advisers not as expenses, but as valuable investments.
Empowering Moments
05:52 Dad's stories inspired my career choice.
07:29 Big Four hire majority of accountants, long hours.
13:29 Entrepreneurial journey: Popeye's franchise, bankruptcy amidst recession.
19:22 Newlywed distraction, then focused on career.
22:27 Big Four vs smaller firms for CPAs.
25:26 Reviewed firms, saved money, moved up ranks.
27:14 Team operated seamlessly, but I missed everything.
32:12 Job vs. business; old firm's offer.
36:22 Now we have a team of 50 people and want to boost the profession.
38:03 Entrepreneurs need valuable advisers for success.
42:45 Outsourcing tasks leads to business success.
46:11 Short term pain, long term gain; investment necessary.
47:51 46 meetings, 2 daily, with committed people.
51:27 Finding silver linings in bad situations.
54:50 Private equity entering public accounting with success.
58:17 Strategic CPA firms offer golden opportunities.
Running a business doesn’t have to run your life.
Without a business partner who holds you accountable, it’s easy to be so busy ‘doing’ business that you don’t have the right strategy to grow your business.
Stop letting your business run you. At Harper & Co CPA Plus, we know that you want to be empowered to build the lifestyle you envision. In order to do that you need a clear path to follow for success
Our clients enjoy a proactive partnership with us. Schedule a consultation with us today.
Download our free guide - Entrepreneurial Success Formula: How to Avoid Managing Your Business From Your Bank Account.
https://empoweringtheentrepreneur.com/
Copyright 2025 Glenn Harper
https://creativecommons.org/licenses/by-nd/4.0/