

Building the Premier Accounting Firm
Roger Knecht
A show dedicated to helping accounting professionals confidently and competently offer quality accounting services to get paid what they are worth. Each episode is conversational with tips and tricks to help you apply the principles of M.A.P. as they relate to starting and building a successful accounting business.
Topics include Marketing, Lead Generation, Ideal Clients, Pricing, Price Strategies, Accounting Services, Value Added Services, Workflow, Practice Management, Staff Training, Client On-boarding, Client Relations & Retention, etc. This podcast will help you become an Accountrepreneur, to work ON your business with advice from the experts.
Topics include Marketing, Lead Generation, Ideal Clients, Pricing, Price Strategies, Accounting Services, Value Added Services, Workflow, Practice Management, Staff Training, Client On-boarding, Client Relations & Retention, etc. This podcast will help you become an Accountrepreneur, to work ON your business with advice from the experts.
Episodes
Mentioned books

Mar 5, 2025 • 51min
Exit Strategy Secrets: Build an Accounting Firm That Sells w/ Len Bruskiewitz
In this episode of Building the Premier Accounting Firm, host Roger Knecht welcomes Len Bruskiewitz, a seasoned business coach and certified exit planning advisor with extensive experience in helping business owners navigate successful transitions. Drawing from his background in tech and business coaching, Len shares invaluable insights about the critical intersection of accounting and exit planning. They explore how accounting professionals can better serve their clients while preparing their own firms for future transitions. In This Episode: Understanding the fundamentals of exit planning The role of accounting in business transitions Maximizing business value through proper documentation Different exit strategies and their implications Building sustainable processes for long-term success Key Takeaways: Recognize the importance of exit planning and its impact on business value and legacy. Understand how EBITDA and add-backs influence business valuation, irrespective of tax strategies. Identify common reasons why business owners avoid exit planning, and how to overcome these hurdles. Implement strategies to build a sustainable business with documented processes and a strong client base to increase valuation. Explore various exit options: family succession, employee/management buyout, or third-party sale, and weigh their respective pros and cons. Final Thoughts: Len's journey from technology to exit planning expertise underscores how accounting professionals must integrate exit planning into their client services, emphasizing its significance for business valuation and post-exit success. The discussion highlights the importance of creating self-sustaining businesses through proper documentation and systems. Thank you for joining us on this episode of Building the Premier Accounting Firm. Connect with our team at 435-344-2060 to learn more about how you can grow your accounting business today. Sponsors: Universal Accounting Center Helping accounting professionals confidently and competently offer quality accounting services to get paid what they are worth. Offers: Use this FREE tool to get a quick estimation of your business value and an overview of the things that would increase that valuation. Go HERE: www.greaterheightscoaching.com to access the Business Valuation Calculator. Also, 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. Now is the time to also become for your clients a certified Profit & Growth Expert, PGE. Add to your accounting services the CFO & Advisory skills you need to help your clients plan for their exits. 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 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

Mar 3, 2025 • 39sec
This Week on BPAF : Len Bruskiewitz
Join us this Wednesday for a new episode where Roger discusses business exits with Len Bruskiewitz.

Mar 1, 2025 • 49min
Rewind : The Formula to Price Accounting Services Confidently with Vanessa Ugatti
Join us as we revisit this conversation from 2020! Speak peer to peer with your potential clients to get paid what you are worth with a confidence. Listen as Vanessa and Roger discuss the specific things, we each can do to effectively build the company with clients that are paying us more. Why, because we offer quality accounting services and know how to properly determine its real value. Vanessa and Roger have a fun conversation that you'll enjoy but also leave with some good notes so come prepared to listen with paper and pen handy. Your Host: Roger Knecht, president of Universal Accounting Center Our Guest: Vanessa Ugatti Vanessa Ugatti, author of Amazon Best-seller, 'True Worth: How to Charge What You're Worth and Get It' helps people go from utterly clueless and powerless to expert and confident when charging their clients, although always ethically, by sharing her TRUE WORTH blueprint which cures this familiar problem. Described as: "A miracle worker" "magic" and "simply the best", Vanessa loves to empower transformation in those who provide an excellent service yet undervalue themselves. At the core of her work is increasing self-worth which she says is at the heart of everything we do and drives behaviour. 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 Complimentary download from Vanessa of her Amazon Best Seller, True Worth 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

Feb 28, 2025 • 52min
Remote Accounting Teams: Wendy Barlin's Tips for Scaling Without the Headache
In this episode of Building the Premier Accounting Firm, business strategist Wendy Barland sits down with Roger Knecht and shares her journey from South Africa to building and selling a seven-figure accounting firm, offering insights on acquisitions, remote teams, and the importance of defining accounting services. Discover how to cultivate a thriving accounting business and create a fulfilling career. In This Episode: Wendy shares her journey from South Africa to building a successful accounting practice, discussing key strategies for firm acquisitions, remote team management, and service definition. She details her experience buying and integrating two firms, building a remote workforce, and ultimately selling her practice. Key Takeaways: Acquire strategically: Evaluate firms carefully and understand the value beyond just revenue. 💰 Embrace remote work: Build a responsible and respectful remote team by setting clear expectations and focusing on results. 🌍 Define services clearly: Differentiate between bookkeeping, accounting, and CFO services to manage client expectations effectively. 📊 Prioritize company culture: Create a positive work environment to attract and retain top talent. 🌟 Plan your exit: Prepare for the emotional and practical aspects of selling your business with a clear post-sale plan. 🗓️ Thank you for joining us for another episode of Building the Premier Accounting Firm. For more information on how you can follow in Wendy's footsteps and start your own thriving accounting business, visit us at universalaccounting.com or call 435-344-2060. Sponsors: Universal Accounting Center Helping accounting professionals confidently and competently offer quality accounting services to get paid what they are worth. Offers: Reach out the Wendy, she's happy to connect - Visit: www.wendybarlin.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

Feb 27, 2025 • 35sec
This Week on BPAF : Wendy Barlin
Join us this Friday for a new episode where Roger discusses people, processes, and profit with Wendy Barlin.

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

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

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

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

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.


