
Earmark Podcast | Earn Free Accounting CPE
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.
Latest episodes

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.

Apr 8, 2024 • 55min
Making Audit Matter Again: The Future of Assurance
Experienced auditor Alan Anderson and finance expert Blake Oliver discuss the future of assurance in auditing. They address challenges like commoditization, the need for innovation, and the importance of providing value-added assurance. The podcast explores embracing technology, redefining audit processes, understanding business through audits, and revitalizing auditing to make it more appealing and relevant in today's evolving landscape.

Mar 22, 2024 • 55min
How Expat Clients Can Legally Slash Their Tax Bill
Do you have clients living or working abroad who could save big on their taxes? In this episode, expat tax specialist Vincenzo Villamena outlines creative strategies US citizens overseas can use to legally reduce their tax burden. Learn how your expat clients can exclude $120,000 in foreign earned income, set up offshore corporate structures to cut their tax rate in half, eliminate 15% self-employment tax, and more.SponsorShareFile - https://earmarkcpe.promo/sharefileChapters(00:50) - Welcome Vincenzo to the Show
(01:50) - Exploring Expat Taxation with Vincenzo Villamena
(03:27) - Vincenzo's Journey from Corporate America to Entrepreneurship Outside of the US
(09:53) - The Remote Work Revolution and Its Impact
(12:36) - Navigating the Complex World of Expat Taxes
(13:00) - Where are Most of Your Clients?
(15:05) - Strategies for Expats to Optimize Taxes
(24:10) - Understanding Corporate Structures and Tax Deferral
(24:20) - The Good, the Bad, and the Planning of Tax Strategies
(28:18) - What Work Do We Have to Do to Get These Benefits?
(30:23) - Comprehensive Service Offerings: From Setup to Compliance
(31:57) - How Do You Charge For Your Services?
(33:12) - The Exponential Savings of Offshore Structuring
(35:36) - Exploring the Vibrant Culture of Carnival in Brazil
(37:22) - Building a Strong Remote Team Culture
(41:57) - Leveraging Technology for Remote Collaboration
(45:04) - A Day in the Life of an Expat Entrepreneur
(50:38) - The Transformative Experience of Living Abroad
(53:23) - Wrapping Up: Insights from an Expat Tax Expert
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, Vincenzo VillamenaWebsite: https://onlinetaxman.com/Website: https://globalexpatadvisors.com/LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/company/online-taxman/Twitter: Guest TwitterFacebook: https://www.facebook.com/OnlineTaxman?mibextid=LQQJ4dInstagram: https://instagram.com/onlinetaxman?igshid=OGQ5ZDc2ODk2ZA%3D%3D&utm_source=qrConnect with Blake Oliver, CPALinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/blaketoliverTwitter: https://twitter.com/blaketoliver/

Mar 8, 2024 • 60min
Hollywood Accounting: A CPA's Journey Into Entertainment
Explore the world of entertainment finance with a CPA's journey into Hollywood accounting, discussing complex profit participation, Netflix content accounting, and the evolution of crypto assets in accounting standards. Discover the vital role of accountants in the creative industry and the potential integration of CPA abilities into AI applications.

Mar 1, 2024 • 59min
The Future of QuickBooks
Recounting the history of QuickBooks Desktop vs Online, predicting Desktop's demise, AI's role in shaping the future, controversy over Live Bookkeeping, impact on accounting professionals, Intuit's shift to assisted services, and the future of AI and automation in accounting

Feb 22, 2024 • 57min
How AI is Transforming and Disrupting Audit
Rob Valdez discusses how AI and chatbots can transform audit tasks, improve staff training, save time on testing, and enhance work quality. Challenges include security fears and resistance to change. Future AI implications on audit staff roles and data management efficiency are explored.