Building the Premier Accounting Firm

Roger Knecht
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Feb 26, 2025 • 49min

5 Excel Mistakes Costing Accountants Time & Money w/ Jeff Lenning

Join Roger Knecht and Microsoft MVP Jeff Lenning in this dynamic episode of Building the Premier Accounting Firm, where they delve into Excel mastery for accounting professionals. 🚀 Learn how to transform your workflow with advanced Excel features like Power Query and Pivot Tables, while exploring the revolutionary impact of AI on spreadsheet efficiency. This must-listen episode provides concrete strategies for accountants to reduce manual work and boost productivity through Excel automation. 📊 In This Episode: The episode explores essential Excel features for accountants, including Power Query for data automation, Pivot Tables for analysis, and AI integration for enhanced productivity. Jeff shares insights on implementing error-checking systems and transforming manual processes into automated solutions. The discussion covers the importance of Excel education for career development and practical tips for immediate workflow improvement. Key Takeaways: Master data automation through Power Query, Power Pivot, and Pivot Tables for streamlined workflows. ⚙️ Enhance Excel proficiency using AI tools like ChatGPT and Microsoft Copilot for formula comprehension. 🤖 Implement dedicated error-checking systems to ensure report accuracy and reliability. ✅ Transform manual processes into formula-driven solutions for enhanced workflow automation. 💡 Invest in Excel education for emerging professionals to strengthen their career prospects. 🧑‍🎓 Episode Wrap-Up Thanks for joining us for this enlightening conversation with Jeff Lenning on Excel mastery in accounting. Remember to implement these powerful automation techniques in your practice, and don't forget to check out Excel University for more advanced tips. For a deeper dive into building a thriving accounting practice, visit universalaccounting.com or call 435-344-2060. Until next time, keep innovating and automating! 🚀 Sponsors: Universal Accounting Center Helping accounting professionals confidently and competently offer quality accounting services to get paid what they are worth. Offers: Sign up for the FREE Excel weekly tips newsletter and take a free Excel class: https://www.excel-university.com/tips Get a FREE copy of these books all accounting professionals should use to work on their business and become profitable. These are a must-have addition to every accountant's library to provide quality CFO & Advisory services as a Profit & Growth Expert today: "Red to BLACK in 30 days – A small business accountant's guide to QUICK turnarounds" – This is a how-to guide on how to turn around a struggling business into a more sustainable model. Each chapter focuses on a crucial aspect of the turnaround process - from cash flow management to strategies for improving revenue. This book will teach you everything you need to become a turnaround expert for small businesses. "in the BLACK, nine principles to make your business profitable" – Nine Principles to Make Your Business Profitable – Discover what you need to know to run the premier accounting firm and get paid what you are worth in this book, by the same author as Red to Black – CPA Allen B. Bostrom. Bostrom teaches the three major functions of business (marketing, production and accounting) as well as strategies for maximizing profitability for your clients by creating actionable plans to implement the nine principles. "Your Strategic Accountant" - Understand the 3 Core Accounting Services (CAS - Client Accounting Services) you should offer as you run your business. Help your clients understand which numbers they need to know to make more informed business decisions. "Your Profit & Growth Expert" - Your business is an asset. You should know its value and understand how to maximize it. Beginning with the end in mind helps you work ON your business to build a company you can leave so that it can continue to exist in your absence or build wealth as you retire and enjoy the time, freedom, and life you want and deserve. Follow the Turnkey Business plan for accounting professionals. This is the proven process to start and build the premier accounting firm in your area. After more than 40 years we've identified the best practices of successful accountants and this is a presentation we are happy to share. Also learn the best practices to automate and nurture your lead generation process allowing you to get the bookkeeping, accounting and tax clients you deserve. GO HERE to see this presentation and learn what you can do today to identify and engage with your ideal clients. Check it out and see what you can do to be in business for yourself but not by yourself with Universal Accounting Center. It's here you can become a: Professional Bookkeeper, PB Professional Tax Preparer, PTP Profit & Growth Expert, PGE Next, join a group of like-minded professionals within the accounting community. Register to attend GrowCon and Stay up-to-date on current topics and trends and see what you can do to also give back, participating in relevant conversations as they relate to offering quality accounting services and building your bookkeeping, accounting & tax business. The Accounting & Bookkeeping Tips Facebook Group The Universal Accounting Fanpage Topical Newsletters: Universal Accounting Success The Universal Newsletter Lastly, get your Business Score to see what you can do to work ON your business and have the Premier Accounting Firm. Join over 70,000 business owners and get your score on the 8 Factors That Drive Your Company's Value. For Additional FREE Resources for accounting professionals check out this collection HERE! Be sure to join us for GrowCon, the LIVE event for accounting professionals to work ON their business. This is a conference you don't want to miss. Remember this, Accounting Success IS Universal. Listen to our next episode and be sure to subscribe. Also, let us know what you think of the podcast and please share any suggestions you may have. We look forward to your input: Podcast Feedback For more information on how you can apply these principles to start and build your accounting, bookkeeping & tax business please visit us at www.universalaccountingschool.com or call us at 8012653777
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Feb 24, 2025 • 39sec

This Week on BPAF : Jeff Lenning

Join us this Wednesday for a new episode where Roger discusses the power of excel with Jeff Lenning
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Feb 22, 2025 • 45min

Rewind : Leveraging Technology to Improve Client Relations with Chris Farrell

Join us as we revisit this conversation from 2020! As we work with our accounting clients, we need to consider their experience with us. It begins with the on boarding as a new client but then continues month after month as we help them find value in the information we provide. Listen as Chris and Roger discuss that experience and how accountants can improve it for the client using technology. Consider the example Chris shares as he references what we are all familiar with when it comes to the banking industry. It's time to consider ways to update your client interaction and retention. Your Host: Roger Knecht, president of Universal Accounting Center Our Guest: Chris Farrell Chris Farrell is the CEO of Liscio, a software company that develops Client Experience software for accountants. Prior to Liscio, Chris served as the CFO of a NASDAQ-listed company and as an auditor for Arthur Andersen. He earned his MBA at UCLA his CPA license in California. Chris lives with his wife and son in San Francisco, California. Sponsors: Universal Accounting Center Helping accounting professionals confidently and competently offer quality accounting services to get paid what they are worth. Offers: Get a FREE copy of : "Red to BLACK in 30 days – A small business accountant's guide to QUICK turnarounds" – the how-to-guide e-book for accounting professionals Click HERE to learn more of Liscio and how it can help you leverage technology within your business In a spirit of sharing, Chris invites you to reach out and speak with him directly. Each week he speaks with various owners of accounting businesses. As such he'd be happy to listen and offer advice to help you in your business: chris@liscio.me Remember this, Accounting Success IS Universal. Listen to our next episode and be sure to subscribe. For more information on how you can apply these principles in your business please visit us at www.universalaccountingschool.com or call us at 801.265.3777
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Feb 21, 2025 • 50min

Beyond Comfort Zones: Transformative Journeys in Leadership and Growth w/ Vamsi Polimetla

Welcome to another insightful episode of Building the Premier Accounting Firm, where Roger Knecht, president of Universal Accounting Center, guides you on your journey to building a successful accounting business. In this episode, we have the privilege of welcoming Vamsi Polimetla, a seasoned leadership development coach with an impressive track record at pioneering companies like SpaceX, Amazon and Apple. Vamsi shares his expertise on unleashing the untapped potential within individuals, drawing on Eastern philosophies to help clients achieve their goals more efficiently. Episode Highlights: Vamsi's Journey: Vamsi recounts his transformative journey from India to a 23-year career in IT before transitioning to leadership coaching. He shares personal growth experiences, including moving to the U.S. and overcoming self-doubt, which have shaped his coaching philosophy. Philosophy and Approach: Discussion on leveraging Eastern philosophies to help individuals step out of their comfort zones and create long-term life visions. Insights into maintaining focus on meaningful tasks for personal and professional success. Marketing and Sales for Accounting Professionals: A deep dive into the importance of using CRMs and email marketing for client acquisition in the accounting industry. Practical tips for accountants on developing effective marketing and sales strategies. Personal Development and Fulfillment: Vamsi shares transformative experiences, such as attending a Tony Robbins event, that inspired his shift from pursuing executive roles to finding fulfillment in serving others. Emphasizes the significance of proactive personal development and surrounding oneself with positive influences. Concepts and Frameworks: Introduction to Dan Sullivan's concepts of "free days" and the importance of taking action before feeling completely ready. Life as a journey requires a destination, flexible paths, patience, and resilience. Presentation of the "four four four four" framework for personal and professional development, promoting clarity and momentum. Conclusion: Join us as we delve into these valuable insights with Vamsi, and learn how to apply them for positive change and personal fulfillment in your professional journey. Whether you're in the accounting field or looking to unlock your potential, this episode offers actionable advice and inspiration. Don't miss out on the opportunity to transform your approach to life and work. Sponsors: Universal Accounting Center Helping accounting professionals confidently and competently offer quality accounting services to get paid what they are worth. Offers: Connect with Vamsi: https://www.linkedin.com/in/vamsipolimetla/ Get a FREE copy of these books all accounting professionals should use to work on their business and become profitable. These are a must-have addition to every accountant's library to provide quality CFO & Advisory services as a Profit & Growth Expert today: "Red to BLACK in 30 days – A small business accountant's guide to QUICK turnarounds" – This is a how-to guide on how to turn around a struggling business into a more sustainable model. Each chapter focuses on a crucial aspect of the turnaround process - from cash flow management to strategies for improving revenue. This book will teach you everything you need to become a turnaround expert for small businesses. "in the BLACK, nine principles to make your business profitable" – Nine Principles to Make Your Business Profitable – Discover what you need to know to run the premier accounting firm and get paid what you are worth in this book, by the same author as Red to Black – CPA Allen B. Bostrom. Bostrom teaches the three major functions of business (marketing, production and accounting) as well as strategies for maximizing profitability for your clients by creating actionable plans to implement the nine principles. "Your Strategic Accountant" - Understand the 3 Core Accounting Services you should offer as you run your business. help your clients understand which numbers they need to know to make more informed business decisions. "Your Profit & Growth Expert" - Your business is an asset. You should know its value and understand how to maximize it. Beginning with the end in mind helps you work ON your business to build a company you can leave so that it can continue to exist in your absence or build wealth as you retire and enjoy the time, freedom, and life you want and deserve. Learn what it is you can do to become an author, leveraging your expertise to market your services effectively and get the clients you deserve. This is a webinar you don't want to miss. Learn from Mike Capuzzi what a Shook is and how you can use it to position yourself as the Premier Accounting Firm in your area. This is a must-see presentation so get ready to take some great notes. In addition to becoming an author, see what you can do to follow the Turnkey Business plan for accounting professionals. After more than 40 years we've identified the best practices of successful accountants and this is a presentation we are happy to share. Check it out and see what you can do to be in business for yourself but not by yourself with Universal Accounting Center. It's here you can become a: Professional Bookkeeper, PB Professional Tax Preparer, PTP Profit & Growth Expert, PGE Next, join a group of like-minded professionals within the accounting community. Stay up-to-date on current topics and trends and see what you can do to also give back, participating in relevant conversations as they relate to offering quality accounting services and building your bookkeeping, accounting & tax business. The Accounting & Bookkeeping Tips Facebook Group The Universal Accounting Fanpage Topical Newsletters: Universal Accounting Success The Universal Newsletter Lastly, get your Business Score to see what you can do to work ON your business and have the Premier Accounting Firm. Join over 70,000 business owners and get your score on the 8 Factors That Drive Your Company's Value. For Additional FREE Resources for accounting professionals check out this collection HERE! Be sure to join us for GrowCon, the LIVE event for accounting professionals to work ON their business. This is a conference you don't want to miss. Remember this, Accounting Success IS Universal. Listen to our next episode and be sure to subscribe. Also, let us know what you think of the podcast and please share any suggestions you may have. We look forward to your input: Podcast Feedback For more information on how you can apply these principles to start and build your accounting, bookkeeping & tax business please visit us at www.universalaccountingschool.com or call us at 8012653777
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Feb 20, 2025 • 39sec

This Week on BPAF : Vamsi Polimetia

Join us this Friday for a new episode where Roger discusses doing the impossible with Vamsi Polimetia.
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Feb 19, 2025 • 53min

From Pars to Profits: Mastering SEO for Accounting Firms with Jeremy Estey

In this insightful episode of Building the Premier Accounting Firm, Roger Knecht sits down with Jeremy Estey, a seasoned marketing expert specializing in accounting firms. Jeremy shares his expertise on transforming bookkeeping and tax services into profitable ventures through strategic marketing, with a particular emphasis on the power of search engine optimization (SEO). Main Themes: Jeremy Estey's Journey: Transition from the golf media industry to founding Amber Sky Marketing. Specialization in accounting firms, focusing on cash flow services and business adaptation. Enhancing Bookkeeping and Tax Services: Shifting focus from low-profit tax returns to lucrative recurring clients. Using SEO to optimize web pages for better search engine rankings. Content Marketing and Trust Building: Importance of creating relevant and engaging content to build trust and establish credibility. Positioning businesses as industry experts to attract potential clients. Value-Added Services in Accounting: Emphasis on offering tax strategies and advisory roles, especially in cash management. Educating clients through content marketing and maintaining a robust online presence. Integrated Online Marketing Strategy: Differentiating SEO from SEM and the significance of each. Using Google Ads for ready-to-purchase users and Facebook Ads for brand awareness. Advocating for an omnichannel approach including social media and email marketing. Client Conversion Process: Three-stage process: awareness, relationship building, and conversion. Utilizing CRM data for nurturing client relationships and future marketing efforts. Strategic Business Development: Importance of a business plan, effective pricing, and targeted marketing. Benefits of niching to streamline efforts and offer tailored services. Personal Interests: Jeremy briefly shares his passion for golf, touching upon notable courses and his personal experiences in the sport. Join us as we explore the evolving landscape of accounting firms and discover how strategic marketing can propel your business towards success. Sponsors: Universal Accounting Center Helping accounting professionals confidently and competently offer quality accounting services to get paid what they are worth. Offers: Reach out to Jeremy to learn each of the four components that make up that strategy. https://amberskymarketing.com You can also reach out to him directly via LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/jeremy-r-estey/ Or by email: jeremy@amberskymarketing.com Get a FREE copy of these books all accounting professionals should use to work on their business and become profitable. These are a must-have addition to every accountant's library to provide quality CFO & Advisory services as a Profit & Growth Expert today: "Red to BLACK in 30 days – A small business accountant's guide to QUICK turnarounds" – This is a how-to guide on how to turn around a struggling business into a more sustainable model. Each chapter focuses on a crucial aspect of the turnaround process - from cash flow management to strategies for improving revenue. This book will teach you everything you need to become a turnaround expert for small businesses. "in the BLACK, nine principles to make your business profitable" – Nine Principles to Make Your Business Profitable – Discover what you need to know to run the premier accounting firm and get paid what you are worth in this book, by the same author as Red to Black – CPA Allen B. Bostrom. Bostrom teaches the three major functions of business (marketing, production and accounting) as well as strategies for maximizing profitability for your clients by creating actionable plans to implement the nine principles. "Your Strategic Accountant" - Understand the 3 Core Accounting Services (CAS - Client Accounting Services) you should offer as you run your business. Help your clients understand which numbers they need to know to make more informed business decisions. "Your Profit & Growth Expert" - Your business is an asset. You should know its value and understand how to maximize it. Beginning with the end in mind helps you work ON your business to build a company you can leave so that it can continue to exist in your absence or build wealth as you retire and enjoy the time, freedom, and life you want and deserve. Follow the Turnkey Business plan for accounting professionals. This is the proven process to start and build the premier accounting firm in your area. After more than 40 years we've identified the best practices of successful accountants and this is a presentation we are happy to share. Also learn the best practices to automate and nurture your lead generation process allowing you to get the bookkeeping, accounting and tax clients you deserve. GO HERE to see this presentation and learn what you can do today to identify and engage with your ideal clients. Check it out and see what you can do to be in business for yourself but not by yourself with Universal Accounting Center. It's here you can become a: Professional Bookkeeper, PB Professional Tax Preparer, PTP Profit & Growth Expert, PGE Next, join a group of like-minded professionals within the accounting community. Register to attend GrowCon and Stay up-to-date on current topics and trends and see what you can do to also give back, participating in relevant conversations as they relate to offering quality accounting services and building your bookkeeping, accounting & tax business. The Accounting & Bookkeeping Tips Facebook Group The Universal Accounting Fanpage Topical Newsletters: Universal Accounting Success The Universal Newsletter Lastly, get your Business Score to see what you can do to work ON your business and have the Premier Accounting Firm. Join over 70,000 business owners and get your score on the 8 Factors That Drive Your Company's Value. For Additional FREE Resources for accounting professionals check out this collection HERE! Be sure to join us for GrowCon, the LIVE event for accounting professionals to work ON their business. This is a conference you don't want to miss. Remember this, Accounting Success IS Universal. Listen to our next episode and be sure to subscribe. Also, let us know what you think of the podcast and please share any suggestions you may have. We look forward to your input: Podcast Feedback For more information on how you can apply these principles to start and build your accounting, bookkeeping & tax business please visit us at www.universalaccountingschool.com or call us at 8012653777
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Feb 17, 2025 • 39sec

This Week on BPAF : Jeremy Estey

Join us this Wednesday for a new episode where Roger discusses SEO and SEM with Jeremy Estey
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Feb 15, 2025 • 49min

Rewind : The Accounting Profession Is Evolving with Charlie Price

Join us as we revisit this conversation from 2020! As we consider our role as accounting professionals and the relationships we have with our clients we need to consider which of our services meet two criteria: High Impact High Pricing / Margin Listen as Charlie and Roger discuss this and 3 important factors when marketing your services: Awareness Authority Conversational Be prepared to take some good notes and see what you can do to work ON your business to have the premier accounting firm in your area. Your Host: Roger Knecht, president of Universal Accounting Center Our Guest: Charlie Price Charlie Price is a CPA and business consultant that works with accountants to implement high impact, high profit offers, and create simple marketing, pre-sales, and sales systems. Prior to becoming a consultant Charlie spent over 15 years in the accounting industry, including 10 in public accounting. He is the owner of the Marketing Success for Accountants and Bookkeepers Facebook community with over 1800 members Sponsors: Universal Accounting Center Helping accounting professionals confidently and competently offer quality accounting services to get paid what they are worth. Offers: Get a FREE copy of each of two book all accounting professionals should use to offer trusted strategic advisory services and get paid what they are worth. These are must have additions to every accountants library to provide the value clients look for today: "in the BLACK, nine principles to make your business profitable" – e-book From Charlie: Daily Action Guide: https://docs.google.com/document/d/1ygABGp_7KypxtM7pNMnxyYjuipa6_m7sX3EDegKaA8g/edit?usp=sharing Join the FB Accounting Group: facebook.com/groups/marketingaccountants Remember this, Accounting Success IS Universal. Listen to our next episode and be sure to subscribe. For more information on how you can apply these principles in your business please visit us at www.universalaccountingschool.com or call us at 801.265.3777
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Feb 14, 2025 • 49min

Systematic Marketing Strategies for Telling Your Firm's Story w/ Katie Thomas

Welcome to another enlightening episode of Building the Accounting Firm, where we delve into the essential strategies for elevating your accounting business. In this episode, Roger Knecht is joined by guest CPA Katie Thomas, who brings a wealth of knowledge at the intersection of accounting and marketing. In this episode, we explore the vital role that marketing plays in attracting and retaining clients within accounting practices. Katie shares her journey from working in a family business to becoming a leader in the accounting and marketing field. She offers valuable insights into how firms can integrate marketing effectively to ensure their success. Tune in as we discuss key strategies for marketing integration, content creation, overcoming barriers, and client engagement, all tailored to help accounting professionals elevate their practices. Key Highlights: Katie Thomas's Journey: Transition from a family business to a career in accounting and marketing. Emphasizes marketing as essential, not optional, for firm success. Marketing Integration: Importance of choosing the right social media platforms (e.g., LinkedIn for accountants). Regular, authentic engagement over spammy interactions. Content Creation and Personal Branding: Personal storytelling and unique perspectives in marketing content. AI tools can aid but should not replace genuine voices. A strong unique selling proposition is crucial, with personal input in marketing materials. Insights from "In the Black": Enhancing client communication and balancing branding with short-term tactics. Innovative approaches like compelling offers and transformational storytelling. Overcoming Marketing Barriers: Addressing insecurities about self-promotion. Encouragement to collaborate with professionals and invest financially in marketing efforts. Client Nurturing and Engagement: Importance of structured nurturing processes (e.g., systematic check-ins, newsletters). Prompt engagement and consistent follow-ups to educate clients and position as experts. Collaborations and Growth Strategies: Collaboration between accounting service business owners. Job placement assistance program introduction. Recommendations like the "four c process" for growth. This episode is a must-listen for accounting professionals looking to enhance their marketing strategies and build stronger client relationships for sustained growth. Call 435-344-2060 to connect with Universal Accounting's team to improve your marketing at your accounting firm. Sponsors: Universal Accounting Center Helping accounting professionals confidently and competently offer quality accounting services to get paid what they are worth. Offers: You need Katie's free foolproof guide on how to find and connect with your ideal clients online so you can increase your impact, influence, and income, go to: https://leaders-online.com/4cprocess/. Get a FREE copy of these books all accounting professionals should use to work on their business and become profitable. These are a must-have addition to every accountant's library to provide quality CFO & Advisory services as a Profit & Growth Expert today: "Red to BLACK in 30 days – A small business accountant's guide to QUICK turnarounds" – This is a how-to guide on how to turn around a struggling business into a more sustainable model. Each chapter focuses on a crucial aspect of the turnaround process - from cash flow management to strategies for improving revenue. This book will teach you everything you need to become a turnaround expert for small businesses. "in the BLACK, nine principles to make your business profitable" – Nine Principles to Make Your Business Profitable – Discover what you need to know to run the premier accounting firm and get paid what you are worth in this book, by the same author as Red to Black – CPA Allen B. Bostrom. Bostrom teaches the three major functions of business (marketing, production and accounting) as well as strategies for maximizing profitability for your clients by creating actionable plans to implement the nine principles. "Your Strategic Accountant" - Understand the 3 Core Accounting Services (CAS - Client Accounting Services) you should offer as you run your business. Help your clients understand which numbers they need to know to make more informed business decisions. "Your Profit & Growth Expert" - Your business is an asset. You should know its value and understand how to maximize it. Beginning with the end in mind helps you work ON your business to build a company you can leave so that it can continue to exist in your absence or build wealth as you retire and enjoy the time, freedom, and life you want and deserve. Follow the Turnkey Business plan for accounting professionals. This is the proven process to start and build the premier accounting firm in your area. After more than 40 years we've identified the best practices of successful accountants and this is a presentation we are happy to share. Also learn the best practices to automate and nurture your lead generation process allowing you to get the bookkeeping, accounting and tax clients you deserve. GO HERE to see this presentation and learn what you can do today to identify and engage with your ideal clients. Check it out and see what you can do to be in business for yourself but not by yourself with Universal Accounting Center. It's here you can become a: Professional Bookkeeper, PB Professional Tax Preparer, PTP Profit & Growth Expert, PGE Next, join a group of like-minded professionals within the accounting community. Register to attend GrowCon and Stay up-to-date on current topics and trends and see what you can do to also give back, participating in relevant conversations as they relate to offering quality accounting services and building your bookkeeping, accounting & tax business. The Accounting & Bookkeeping Tips Facebook Group The Universal Accounting Fanpage Topical Newsletters: Universal Accounting Success The Universal Newsletter Lastly, get your Business Score to see what you can do to work ON your business and have the Premier Accounting Firm. Join over 70,000 business owners and get your score on the 8 Factors That Drive Your Company's Value. For Additional FREE Resources for accounting professionals check out this collection HERE! Be sure to join us for GrowCon, the LIVE event for accounting professionals to work ON their business. This is a conference you don't want to miss. Remember this, Accounting Success IS Universal. Listen to our next episode and be sure to subscribe. Also, let us know what you think of the podcast and please share any suggestions you may have. We look forward to your input: Podcast Feedback For more information on how you can apply these principles to start and build your accounting, bookkeeping & tax business please visit us at www.universalaccountingschool.com or call us at 8012653777
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Feb 13, 2025 • 43sec

This Week on BPAF : Katie Thomas

Join us this Friday for a new episode where Roger discusses social media and AI with Katie Thomas.

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