

Earmark Podcast | Earn Free Accounting CPE
Blake Oliver, CPA
This show is brought to you by Earmark, your source for podcast-based continuing education for accounting and tax professionals. You can earn CPE by listening to the episodes on this podcast and more! Sign up for our mobile app to earn free CPE whenever you want, wherever you go. Learn more at https://earmarkcpe.com.
Episodes
Mentioned books

Aug 23, 2024 • 1h 3min
The Savannah Bananas' Playbook for Unconventional Business Growth
Blake Oliver interviews Savannah Bananas CFO Tim Naddy to learn unconventional strategies for explosive business growth. Discover how this innovative sports entertainment team achieved a million-fan waitlist and sold out over 200 consecutive games. Tim will share insights on creating innovative revenue streams, developing fan-centric KPIs to drive profitability, and managing financial risks in rapidly scaling businesses. Whether you're in sports, entertainment, or another industry, discover how to apply these creative accounting practices to transform your financial approach. Walk away with actionable strategies to enhance customer engagement, boost growth, and reimagine your business's financial success.(Originally recorded on August 7, 2024, on Earmark Webinars+) SponsorMakersHub - https://earmarkcpe.promo/makershubChapters(00:00) - How to Earn CPE
(01:17) - Behind the Scenes with the Savannah Bananas
(03:06) - The Role of a CPA in Sports Entertainment
(04:40) - Educating the Next Generation of Creatives
(07:37) - The Savannah Bananas Phenomenon
(12:59) - Fan-Centric Business Model
(20:23) - Challenges and Innovations in Finance
(29:20) - Touring and Merchandise Strategy
(34:48) - Partnering for Regional Warehousing
(35:30) - Forecasting Inventory Needs
(36:05) - Managing Merchandise Logistics
(37:06) - Understanding Fan Data
(39:03) - Finance Tech Stack Overview
(49:12) - Challenges of Rapid Expansion
(55:55) - Creative Accounting Practices
(59:14) - Advice for Aspiring Accountants
(01:02:10) - Conclusion and CPE Information
Sign up to get free CPE for listening to this podcasthttps://earmarkcpe.comDownload the Earmark CPE App Apple: https://apps.apple.com/us/app/earmark-cpe/id1562599728Android: https://play.google.com/store/apps/details?id=com.earmarkcpe.appConnect with Our Guest, Tim NaddyLinkedIn: http://www.linkedin.com/in/drtimnaddy221bLearn more about The Savannah Bananas https://thesavannahbananas.com/Connect with Blake Oliver, CPALinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/blaketoliverTwitter: https://twitter.com/blaketoliver/

Aug 10, 2024 • 56min
How Taxes Shape Our Economy and Lives
Scott Hodge, President Emeritus and Senior Policy Advisor at the Tax Foundation, joins Blake Oliver, CPA, to unpack the intricate world of tax policy. They discuss how taxes shape everyday costs like housing and healthcare, highlighting historical examples like the 'window tax.' The conversation touches on the implications of corporate tax rates for the upcoming elections, the effects of tariffs on the economy, and creative tax avoidance strategies. Hodge advocates for a more consumption-based tax system to foster economic growth and reforms in a complex code.

Jul 30, 2024 • 60min
Our Favorite Government Frauds: An Interview with the Hosts of "Oh My Fraud"
Greg Kyte and Caleb Newquist of the Oh My Fraud podcast share their favorite government fraud cases they've covered on the Oh My Fraud podcast, including Rita Crundwell's $53 million municipal fraud in Dixon, Illinois, and Claudia Viles' $500,000 tax-collector fraud in Anson, Maine. They also examine the "Fat Leonard" Navy contracting fraud, Eddie Tipton's lottery rigging scheme, and some pandemic-related frauds like PPP and EIDL abuse.SponsorMakersHub - https://earmarkcpe.promo/makershubChapters(00:52) - Overview of Government Frauds
(01:58) - The Case of Rita Crundwell
(06:43) - How Rita Crundwell Was Caught
(14:36) - The Case of Claudia Viles
(32:17) - The Fat Leonard Scandal Unveiled
(33:43) - Exorbitant Invoices and Ignored Red Flags
(34:45) - Bravo Zulus and Dirty Work
(36:13) - Security Measures and Exploiting Tragedies
(39:11) - The Crux of the Fraud: Inflated Invoices
(41:00) - Lottery Fraud: Eddie Tipton's Scheme
(49:20) - Pandemic Fraud: A Rock and a Hard Place
(55:52) - Final Thoughts and Takeaways
Sign up to get free CPE for listening to this podcasthttps://earmarkcpe.comDownload the Earmark CPE App Apple: https://apps.apple.com/us/app/earmark-cpe/id1562599728Android: https://play.google.com/store/apps/details?id=com.earmarkcpe.appConnect with Our Guests: Greg Kyte, CPAWebsite: http://www.comedyCPE.comX: https://twitter.com/gregkyte LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/gregkyte/ Caleb NewquistX: https://twitter.com/cnewquistLinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/calebnewquist/Learn more about Oh My FraudWebsite: https://ohmyfraud.com/Connect with Blake Oliver, CPALinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/blaketoliverTwitter: https://twitter.com/blaketoliver/

Jul 11, 2024 • 1h 4min
Practical Strategies for Recruiting and Retaining Top Talent in Accounting
Explore cutting-edge hiring solutions for accountancy firms with Robin Thieme, CEO and founder of KBS CFO, and industry expert Blake Oliver. Learn how work simulations provide a "try before you buy" approach, ensuring a better fit for the firm and the candidate. Discover the benefits of apprenticeship programs, which KBS CFO has successfully implemented. Robin will share insights from her experience running a Results Only Work Environment and discuss how these innovative practices can help your firm attract and retain top talent. Don't miss this opportunity to revolutionize your hiring process!(Originally recorded on June 19, 2024, on Earmark Webinars+)SponsorMakersHub - https://earmarkcpe.promo/makershubChapters(01:57) - Robin Thieme's Background and Firm Overview
(05:44) - Specialization in Distilleries
(07:57) - Team Structure and Roles
(13:17) - Innovative Hiring Practices
(18:30) - Work Simulation Process
(29:55) - Remote Work Challenges and Skills
(38:24) - Introduction to Results Only Work Environment
(38:53) - Attracting Top Talent with a Tech-Forward Approach
(40:41) - Flexibility and Accountability in Remote Work
(43:57) - Managing Team Performance and Client Expectations
(45:26) - How to Hold Your Team Accountable
(48:29) - Choosing the Right Workflow Tools
(56:52) - Exploring Apprenticeship Programs
(01:01:55) - The Role of Timesheets in Job Costing
(01:04:09) - Conclusion and Contact Information
Sign up to get free CPE for listening to this podcasthttps://earmarkcpe.comEarn CPE for this episode! https://www.earmark.app/course/c41e6910-586a-474d-ae77-febfce14898fDownload the Earmark CPE App Apple: https://apps.apple.com/us/app/earmark-cpe/id1562599728Android: https://play.google.com/store/apps/details?id=com.earmarkcpe.appConnect with Our Guest, Robin H Thieme, CITP, CGMA, CPALinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/kbscfo/ Learn more about KBS CFOWebsite: https://www.kbscfo.com/#Connect with Blake Oliver, CPALinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/blaketoliverTwitter: https://twitter.com/blaketoliver/

Jul 1, 2024 • 46min
The Art of Challenging Property Tax Assessments
Blake discusses the intricacies of property tax assessments and appeals with Josh Malancuk, President and Founder of JM Tax Advocates. Josh explains how his firm helps businesses minimize their property tax liabilities by providing a more accurate market value for their properties, which often differs from the assessor's valuation. He walks through the appeal process, the importance of meeting deadlines, and shares a case study where his firm saved a client millions of dollars in property taxes.SponsorMakersHub - https://earmarkcpe.promo/makershubChapters(01:04) - Meet Josh Malancuk: Property Tax Specialist
(02:09) - The Importance of Property Tax Specialization
(06:07) - Understanding Property Tax Assessments
(09:06) - The Appeal Process Explained
(16:12) - Appealing an Asset Value
(23:49) - What Is It Like Making an Appeal?
(32:58) - Case Study: Mega Food Processor
(40:36) - How to Work with JM Tax Advocates
(45:10) - Advice for Aspiring Property Tax Specialists
(46:41) - Conclusion and Contact Information
Sign up to get free CPE for listening to this podcasthttps://earmarkcpe.comDownload the Earmark CPE App Apple: https://apps.apple.com/us/app/earmark-cpe/id1562599728Android: https://play.google.com/store/apps/details?id=com.earmarkcpe.appConnect with Our Guest, Josh Malancuk, CPA, CMILinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/josh-malancuk-cpa-cmi-a5997619/Learn more about JM Tax Advocateshttps://jmtaxadvocates.com/Connect with Blake Oliver, CPALinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/blaketoliverTwitter: https://twitter.com/blaketoliver/

Jun 18, 2024 • 48min
Achieving Work-Life Harmony in Accounting with The 3.3 Rule
John Briggs, founder of Incite Tax and author of "The 3.3 Rule" joins Blake to explain his approach to ending burnout in accounting while increasing productivity, which involves working for up to three hours followed by a 30% recovery period. They explore how this method can double productivity compared to the traditional 8-hour workday, and John provides practical tips for implementing it in accounting firms.SponsorMakersHub - https://earmarkcpe.promo/makershubChapters(00:38) - Introducing John Briggs and the 3.3 Rule
(04:50) - Applying the 3.3 Rule in Accounting
(05:12) - John's Journey: From Deloitte to Insight Tax
(07:04) - Challenges and Solutions in Modern Accounting Firms
(11:42) - The Problem with Billable Hours
(22:19) - The Benefits of Structured Breaks
(25:07) - Being a Controller at Atlas
(27:29) - The Reality of Top 100 Firms and Work-Life Balance
(29:18) - AI's Impact on Consulting and Accounting
(30:31) - The Future of Work Hours and Technology
(33:57) - Balancing Work, Health, and Personal Life
(39:05) - Measuring Productivity Beyond Hours Worked
(46:35) - Final Thoughts and Where to Find More Information
Sign up to get free CPE for listening to this podcasthttps://earmarkcpe.comDownload the Earmark CPE App Apple: https://apps.apple.com/us/app/earmark-cpe/id1562599728Android: https://play.google.com/store/apps/details?id=com.earmarkcpe.appConnect with Our Guest, John BriggsLinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/johnbriggscpa/Learn more about Incite Tax & AccountingWebsite: https://incitetax.com/Connect with Blake Oliver, CPALinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/blaketoliverTwitter: https://twitter.com/blaketoliver/

Jun 3, 2024 • 1h 4min
Building a Modern CPA Firm: A Revolutionary Approach with Alan Whitman
Kick-start a new era in accountancy with Alan Whitman, the former CEO of Baker Tilly US. Using his invaluable experience as a CEO for nearly 8 years, Alan will share novel insights on transforming traditional CPA firms into modern, sustainable, and innovative powerhouses. This session delves into people development, strategic growth, service models, and methods for breaking from long-standing conventions that hinder progression. It's time to BREAK THE MOLD (TM) and lead the transition toward the future of professional services and the CPA industry. If that's your ambition, this session was designed with you in mind.(Originally recorded on May 8, 2024, on Earmark Webinars+)SponsorShareFile - https://earmarkcpe.promo/sharefileChapters(01:48) - Alan Whitman's Journey to CEO
(03:32) - Breaking the Mold in CPA Firms
(07:06) - Challenges of Traditional Models
(16:48) - Ethics and Systemic Issues in Accounting
(18:37) - Advising Firms on New Business Models
(25:46) - Developing and Retaining Talent
(29:33) - Navigating the Future of Advisory Firms
(32:44) - Transforming the Practice: Multidisciplinary Approach
(34:22) - Building Businesses Within a Business
(37:40) - Journey to CEO: Building International
(40:41) - Rebranding and Global Expansion
(42:00) - The Importance of Branding in Professional Services
(42:55) - Recruitment and Retention Challenges
(46:52) - Education and Training in Accounting
(50:29) - The Future of the Accounting Profession
(01:00:50) - Final Thoughts and Advice for Firm Owners
Sign up to get free CPE for listening to this podcasthttps://earmarkcpe.comDownload the Earmark CPE App Apple: https://apps.apple.com/us/app/earmark-cpe/id1562599728Android: https://play.google.com/store/apps/details?id=com.earmarkcpe.appConnect with Our Guest, Alan WhitmanLinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/alan-whitman-357ab91/Connect with Blake Oliver, CPALinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/blaketoliverTwitter: https://twitter.com/blaketoliver/

May 17, 2024 • 57min
How to Sell Your Accounting Firm
Thinking of selling your practice? Join us as serial acquirer Michael Ly shares an insider’s guide to preparing, pricing & selling your accounting firm. Learn how to value your firm for maximum sale price, find the right buyer, negotiate win-wins, protect clients through transition, and structure creative deals - whether nearing retirement or just exploring options. Get practical tips from an active buyer on ensuring a smooth exit on your terms.(Originally recorded on March 26, 2024, on Earmark Webinars+)SponsorShareFile - https://earmarkcpe.promo/sharefileChapters(01:34) - The Evolution of Reconciled: A Modern Accounting Firm
(03:48) - Insights on Buying and Selling Accounting Firms
(04:19) - Determining the Right Time to Sell Your Accounting Firm
(09:44) - Maximizing Your Firm's Value Before Selling
(16:53) - Adopting Modern Technology and Billing Models
(23:04) - Understanding Firm Valuation and Buyer Insights
(28:32) - Strategies for Enhancing Firm Valuation
(30:24) - Evaluating Potential Buyers: What to Look For
(32:11) - Client Retention and Revenue Strategies Post-Acquisition
(36:32) - Valuation Insights: Navigating Firm Sales
(41:19) - Optimizing Earn-Out Structures for Sellers
(43:44) - Non-Compete Agreements: Protecting Your Business Post-Sale
(46:11) - Common Mistakes Sellers Make and How to Avoid Them
(50:20) - Tax Optimization Strategies for Selling Your Firm
(54:03) - The Future of Accounting M&A Market
(56:33) - Closing Remarks and Resources for CPE
Sign up to get free CPE for listening to this podcasthttps://earmarkcpe.comDownload the Earmark CPE App Apple: https://apps.apple.com/us/app/earmark-cpe/id1562599728Android: https://play.google.com/store/apps/details?id=com.earmarkcpe.appConnect with Our Guest, Michael LyLinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/michaellyTwitter: https://twitter.com/michael_ly_?lang=enLearn more about ReconciledWebsite: https://www.reconciled.com/aboutConnect with Blake Oliver, CPALinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/blaketoliverTwitter: https://twitter.com/blaketoliver/

May 3, 2024 • 57min
The 5 Apps You Need In Your Accounting Firm
In an era where the right software can make or break your accounting firm, choosing the right apps is essential. In this webinar, Blake Oliver, CPA, draws on his experience as a firm founder to guide you through the essential software that will streamline your operations, upgrade your client experience, and drive future growth. This session is designed to cut through the clutter of the ever-expanding app marketplace, providing you with a curated list of applications indispensable for modern accounting practices. Join us to discover how these apps can streamline your workflows, enhance your service delivery, and set your firm on a path to success.(Originally recorded on March 6, 2024, on Earmark Webinars+)SponsorClient Hub - https://earmarkcpe.promo/clienthubChapters(00:00) - The 5 Apps You Need In Your Accounting Firm sequence
(01:55) - Why Choosing the Right Software Matters
(05:27) - Diving Deep into Proposal Management Software
(14:08) - Workflow Apps: The Backbone of Firm Operations
(29:08) - Exploring General Ledger Applications
(31:07) - Optimizing Accounting Systems with FreshBooks and Xero
(31:33) - Designing Your App Stack for Efficient Accounting
(32:30) - Choosing the Right General Ledger Systems for Your Clients
(33:02) - Streamlining Client Onboarding with a Standardized Tech Stack
(34:28) - The Importance of Payroll Apps in Accounting Firms
(35:04) - Exploring the Best Payroll Software Options
(39:34) - Bill Pay Apps: Enhancing Client Services
(43:39) - Integrating AI and ChatGPT into Your Accounting Firm
(45:14) - Best Practices for App Integration and Tech Adoption
(56:04) - Concluding Remarks and Next Steps for Your Firm
Sign up to get free CPE for listening to this podcasthttps://earmarkcpe.comDownload the Earmark CPE App Apple: https://apps.apple.com/us/app/earmark-cpe/id1562599728Android: https://play.google.com/store/apps/details?id=com.earmarkcpe.appConnect with Blake Oliver, CPALinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/blaketoliverTwitter: https://twitter.com/blaketoliver/

Apr 22, 2024 • 1h
Navigating the Identity Crisis in the CPA Profession
The podcast delves into the CPA profession's identity crisis, challenges in enrollment and talent shortage, rethinking education in accounting, the future of automation and advisory services, split between audit and advisory, addressing work culture and pipeline problems, reimagining the CPA role, work-life balance, engaging with viewers, auditor work hours debate, CBIZ's position, role of regulators, and proposals for reform.