Building the Premier Accounting Firm

Join us this Wednesday for a new episode where Roger discusses how to get more done in less hours with John Briggs.  

Join host Roger Knecht in a rewind with keynote speaker Mark Cook as they discuss bold leadership, effective problem-solving, and the principles guiding successful business ventures. Mark shares insights on getting 'unstuck' as a leader, defining effective leadership traits, and practical advice for aspiring entrepreneurs. Tune in for valuable tips on building a fulfilling career in the world of business and leadership.

Welcome to the Building the Premier Accounting Firm podcast with Roger Knecht. Today Roger is joined by Tim Moy, CPA, as they delve into the nuances of building a successful career in accounting. From his humble beginnings to his ascent to partnership at a prominent firm, Tim shares the principles that guided his professional journey. Key Themes: Career Evolution: Tim gives Roger some background on his professional trajectory, detailing the transition from a small firm to becoming a partner in a larger organization, with several stops along the way. Core Values:  Tim explains why he sees humility, respect, relationship-building, and the significance of honest feedback as pillars for success in the accounting sector. Overcoming Challenges: Roger and Tim discuss the importance of personal adversities that professionals may face and how these can be catalysts for business growth. Relationship Emphasis: Tim emphasizes the importance of nurturing client relationships and leveraging the supportive network within the accounting community. Strategic Practices: Insights into proactive commitment management, delivering outstanding service to internal clients, and strategic industry practices such as tracking leverage statistics and focusing on human capital leverage. Technological Integration: The episode explores the impact of ERP systems and APIs on the accounting industry, highlighting how these technologies can optimize timesheets and project management. Performance Metrics: The discussion underlines KPIs and ratios that are critical for effective staff management and measuring financial performance, including the metric of dollars billed per partner hour. Addressing Staffing Issues: Solutions to tackle staffing shortages, such as remote employee management, offshoring, and targeted recruiting, are examined. CPA Firm Management: Tim Moy shares valuable insights from his own experience in running a CPA firm, dealing with smaller clients, and the initial hurdles of starting a business. Support During Growth: The value of having a robust support system during phases of growth is underscored, highlighting the benefits of mentorship and community. Thank you for joining us on another insightful episode of the Building the Premier Accounting Firm podcast. To learn more about how you can start your own successful journey into the accounting industry, call 801-623-6707 or schedule an appointment online when it’s convenient for you.   Sponsors: Universal Accounting Center Helping accounting professionals confidently and competently offer quality accounting services to get paid what they are worth.   We are also happy to announce that we were recognized as the 8th-best accounting podcast.  It’s exciting to be ranked one of the Top 10 shows for the accounting profession and are eager to climb the rank even higher. Offers: Tim is offering listeners of today’s show the opportunity to connect with him regarding CPA360 can assist with solving their firm's problems or unlock their opportunities.  Take a moment and email him directly and be sure to thank him for his time. tmoy@mbe.cpa   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” – the how-to-guide e-book for accounting professionals “in the BLACK, nine principles to make your business profitable” – e-book 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.   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  

Join us this Wednesday for a new episode where Roger discusses automation with Tim Moy.

Join us as we revisit this conversation from 2023!   On this week’s episode of "Building the Premier Accounting Firm", your host Roger Knecht sits down with Jesse Rubenfeld, founder of FinOptimal, a company that combines accounting and engineering to offer cost-efficient accounting services that utilize proprietary automation and onshore accountants, as they explore the intersection of accounting, technology, and the future of the accounting profession. Jesse shares his journey into accounting, which began with a background in music. He then dives into the genesis of FinOptimal, sharing how his company helps clients find the best accountants using six key questions. They also discuss the importance of accounting in business, and why it matters more than ever in today's rapidly changing economy. Jesse and Roger discuss how the accounting profession is evolving and why some accountants still fear technology in this rapidly growing and fast-automated profession.  Jesse also discusses both the limitations of Quickbooks-integrated apps and the changing role of accountants in future businesses. He also provides valuable insights on the significance of finance automation and its impact on the future of the accounting profession. Your Host: Roger Knecht, president of Universal Accounting Center Guest Name: Jesse Rubenfeld, CPA After growing up in Houston, Jesse Rubenfeld began his career in New York City at the Lime Group of companies doing the books for a variety of companies, gaining experience with non-profit, software industry, hedge fund, and management company accounting. After serving as LimeWire's CFO for his last four years there, he joined the D. E. Shaw Group as the controller of the research division that builds supercomputers to revolutionize drug discovery. From the beginning, Jesse's interest in technology led him to automate financial operations, first with spreadsheets, then Perl, and most recently Python. He founded FinOptimal to help QuickBooks Online-based businesses streamline their financial operations, optimizing value-per-dollar with an outsourced accounting service heavily focused on automation. Jesse has bachelor's degrees from UPENN and Wharton, and an MBA from Columbia, and he lives in Houston with his wife and three children. FinOptimal meets at the intersection of accounting and engineering to provide the most cost-efficient accounting services on the market. Our clients save up to four full-time finance hires compared to competitors and thousands each month by avoiding expensive accounting softwares.   That's because we don't just do your accounting, we optimize it using a unique blend of proprietary automation and onshore accountants. We make your accounting systems work with you, not against you. We know your favorite accounting tech tools inside out and how you can do more with them.   Imagine better data, increased visibility, and enhanced customization — all from the systems you're using now. It's time to take your accounting to the next level. Sponsors: Universal Accounting Center Helping accounting professionals confidently and competently offer quality accounting services to get paid what they are worth.   Offers: Expand the quality accounting services you offer to include CFO and Advisory work.  This is a rewarding opportunity to further service your clients and get paid what you are worth.  Become a Profit & Growth Expert and apply the Universal Business Builder system with confidence.   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

Welcome to another episode of the Building the Premier Accounting Firm podcast, where we dive into the trends and transformations bookkeeping, tax and advisory business owners need to know. Today, we’re joined by Laurence Whittam, the Chief Outsourcing Officer at Impact Global Solutions, who brings a decade of rich experience in the outsourcing industry, focusing on accounting firms in the US. Main Themes: Evolution of Outsourcing Mindset: Laurence shares his observations on how the perception of outsourcing has changed from resistance to acceptance over the years. He discusses the shift from having to convince firms to outsource to now educating them on best practices. Role of the Chief Outsourcing Officer: Importance of this role in navigating cultural differences and communication barriers. Laurence talks about his responsibilities in assimilating remote workers into a company’s culture and ensuring smooth operations. Challenges in Outsourcing: Insights into overcoming cultural differences and communication issues. The necessity for internal support and clear operational frameworks. Financial and Efficiency Benefits: Discussion on how outsourcing can lead to significant cost savings and efficiency gains. The positive impact of offshore staffing on a firm’s bottom line. Cash Flow Management: The critical nature of managing cash flow in the accounting industry. Laurence underscores the importance of a solid business plan for accounting professionals. Standard Operating Procedures (SOPs): The role SOPs play in successful offshoring efforts. Tips on how to maintain quality and consistency with a remote workforce. Communication with Offshore Staff: Strategies for effective communication to bridge the gap between domestic and offshore teams. How good communication contributes to the success of outsourcing partnerships. Demand for Accounting Services: Analysis of the growing demand and how outsourcing can help meet these needs. Exploring the potential for expansion and scalability through offshore staffing. Choosing the Right Outsourcing Partner: The benefits of partnering with reputable outsourcing providers. Laurence shares his criteria for selecting the right partner for accounting firms. Listener Engagement: The episode concludes with an invitation for listeners to share their experiences or questions regarding outsourcing. Laurence encourages firms to reach out to Universal Accounting for further guidance on implementing the principles discussed in their businesses. Final Thoughts: As the podcast wraps up, Laurence Whittam emphasizes the strategic value of outsourcing for accounting firms looking to thrive in a competitive global market. He provides actionable insights and real-world advice for businesses ready to embrace the power of a global workforce. Remember to subscribe to our podcast for more insights from industry experts, and don’t forget to share your thoughts with us on social media or via email. Tune in next time for another engaging episode of “Global Business Horizons.”   Sponsors: Universal Accounting Center Helping accounting professionals confidently and competently offer quality accounting services to get paid what they are worth.   Offers: Free Outsourcing Improvement or Discovery Session - https://calendly.com/lwhittam-nlw Come utilize our Outsourcing Readiness Assessment which will do a deep analysis into your firm to see if you are ready to outsource and provide actionable steps to start a successful outsourcing journey. We will throw in a 1-Year Roadmap which even if you implement 20% of it I guarantee will save you the cost of the Assessment. 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” – the how-to-guide e-book for accounting professionals “in the BLACK, nine principles to make your business profitable” – e-book Learn what it is you can do to become an author, leveraging your expertise to market effectively your services 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.   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

Join us this Wednesday for a new episode where Roger discusses outsourcing with Laurence Whittam.  

Join us as we revisit this conversation from 2023!   In the latest episode of "Building the Premier Accounting Firm", host Roger Knecht sits down with Chris Hervochon, a successful accountant and entrepreneur, to discuss his journey in the accounting world. Chris shares how he started as an accountant and eventually left his job to start his own firm. He also talks about the crucial role his spouse played in allowing him to make the leap to entrepreneurship. Chris talks about how working with a coach has helped him grow his business and how he has found success by niching in marketing agencies. They also explore the differences between vertical and horizontal niching and why finding a niche in the accounting industry is essential. They also cover the differences between CFO and advisory services and Chris’s top tools to automate his business. He also shares his experiences with employee buy-ins and running his business virtually. Looking to start or grow your own accounting firm? Then this episode is a must-listen for you. The insights and advice shared by Chris Hervochon will inspire and motivate you to take your accounting career to the next level. Tune in now to hear this engaging conversation on "Building the Premier Accounting Firm." Your Host: Roger Knecht, president of Universal Accounting Center Guest Name: Chris Hervochon Chris Hervochon, CPA, CVA is the sole proprietor of his CPA firm.  Chris Hervochon provides outsourced accounting and tax preparation for small businesses and individuals. Before starting his own CPA firm, Chris spent ten years between forensic accounting and corporate accounting and finance. He has been featured in publications such as the Journal of Accountancy, Accounting Today, AMEX Open Forum, and is the Co-Host for the CPA advisory show. Chris has been selected as one of the "40 Under 40" in the Accounting Profession by CPA Practice Advisor magazine for the years 2019 through 2021. In 2018, Chris was one of only 41 CPAs honored by the American Institute of CPAs (AICPA) as a member of the Leadership Academy’s tenth graduating class. Chris was selected based on his exceptional leadership skills and professional experience for the four-day Leadership Academy program, which he graduated from in October of 2018. 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 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: ●        “in the BLACK, nine principles to make your business profitable” – e-book ●        “Red to BLACK in 30 days – A small business accountant’s guide to QUICK turnarounds” – the how-to-guide e-book for accounting professionals Become a Profit & Growth Expert.  Receive the training and skills you need to to offer quality CFO and Advisory services with confidence and competence.  Now is the time to complement your accounting and tax services with an additional income stream.   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  

Welcome to another fascinating episode of the Building the Premier Accounting Firm podcast, where our host Roger Knecht engages in an insightful conversation with Isaac Smith. This episode delves into Isaac’s unique journey from architecture to the world of accounting and the profound emotional impact of business performance on entrepreneurs. Main Themes: Transition from Architecture to Accounting: Isaac discusses his career shift and how it led to new realizations about the importance of accounting in the business world. Emotional Aspect of Business Performance: Isaac shares personal insights on how financial outcomes affect the mindset and emotions of entrepreneurs, highlighting the often-overlooked human side of accounting. Role of Accounting Professionals: The discussion underscores the vital role accountants play in providing security and clarity. Accountants are not just number-crunchers; they’re key advisors who guide business owners through the financial fog. Educating Clients on Financials: Issac and Roger stress the importance of financial literacy for clients. By understanding their numbers, clients can make informed decisions, leading to better business health and growth. Building a Remote Team in the Philippines: Isaac takes us through his experience in establishing an offshore team for his e-commerce venture, shedding light on the evolving landscape of outsourcing services. International Resources for Business Expansion: Smith encourages businesses to look beyond their borders for expansion opportunities, utilizing international resources to scale and compete in the global market. Be sure to tune into this enlightening episode to explore how accounting can be a source of empowerment for business owners worldwide. Whether you’re an industry veteran or new to the world of finance, there’s a wealth of knowledge and inspiration to be gained from Isaac Smith’s experiences and insights. To learn more about how to start your journey to owning an accounting business, call 801-623-6707.   Your Host: Roger Knecht, president of Universal Accounting Center Guest Name: Isaac Smith Isaac Smith is the co-founder of the Bookkeeping firm Summit eCommerce Advisors and founder of the recruitment firm TeamUp. While at Summit he built a team in The Philippines to handle all of the bookkeeping work for their clients. Now, as the founder of TeamUp, he helps other accountants hire top talent in The Philippines, just like he did, directly without ongoing BPO fees.   Sponsors: Universal Accounting Center Helping accounting professionals confidently and competently offer quality accounting services to get paid what they are worth.   Offers: I'll put together a free resource for your listeners on building a team in The Philippines.  They'll be able to get it at: www. hireteamup.com/roger    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 effectively your services 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   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  

Join us this Wednesday for a new episode where Roger discusses building a bookkeeping service for ecommerce businesses and working with teams overseas with Isaac Smith.