
Building the Premier Accounting Firm
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.
Latest episodes

Mar 24, 2025 • 39sec
This Week on BPAF : Nolan Bradbury
Join us this Wednesday for a new episode where Roger discusses client relationships with Nolan Bradbury

Mar 22, 2025 • 42min
Rewind : Being a Disruptor as an Accounting Professional w/ Ryan Lazanis
Join us as we revisit this conversation from 2020! The premise of building the premier accounting firm is based upon the unique services we each choose to offer. Listen as Ryan and Roger discuss why and how you can become a disruptor within the space of accounting to find and retain new clients. Also hear what Ryan has to share about growing an accounting business to the point that someone acquires it. What did it take to achieve it and the lessons he learned along the way? He has some good advice so be ready to take some notes. Pay attention to what he has to say about “coaching” and it’s value in building your business. Your Host: Roger Knecht, president of Universal Accounting Center Our Guest: Ryan Lazanis, CPA Ryan Lazanis, CPA, CA founded Xen Accounting in 2013, a 100% cloud-based accounting firm. Following its acquisition in 2018, Ryan started Future Firm, which helps firm owners design and implement an online, scalable firm that supports their ideal lifestyle. He also sends a weekly newsletter to 2,500+ firm leaders that want to receive exclusive content & tips to help them create an online, scalable firm of their own. Sponsors: Universal Accounting Center Helping accounting professionals confidently and competently offer quality accounting services to get paid what they are worth. Offers: Ryan sends a weekly newsletter to over 3,000 firm leaders who want exclusive tips & tricks to design & implement an online, scalable firm of their own. Newsletter sign up - https://futurefirm.co/newsletter/ 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 accountant’s library to provide the value clients look for 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 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

Mar 21, 2025 • 39min
Smart Finance: Leveraging Fractional CFOs for Maximum Impact w/ Shena White
In this episode of “Building the Premier Accounting Firm,” Shena White, an award-winning contractor and wealth efficiency expert, shares her journey into accounting after an embezzlement incident, leading her to specialize in CFO and advisory services for small businesses. Discover key strategies for financial management, tax planning, and safeguarding your business during economic downturns. This episode provides actionable insights for accounting professionals and business owners alike. Key Takeaways: Understand the role of a fractional CFO in providing financial insight beyond bookkeeping and tax preparation. Implement strategies for building cash reserves and securing lines of credit to protect your business during downturns. Prioritize open communication and trust with clients to address personal and business challenges effectively. Align tax planning with long-term business goals, considering exit strategies and potential sale scenarios. Recognize the importance of playing both “offense” (sales) and “defense” (financial management) in business. Thank you for listening to this episode of Building the Premier Accounting Firm. For more strategies for growing your accounting firm through advisory services, call our team at 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: Check out her Contractor Cash Club: https://www.yourpocketcfo.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

Mar 20, 2025 • 43sec
This Week on BPAF : Shena White
Join us this Friday for a new episode where Roger discusses better serving your clients through advisory services with Shena White

Mar 19, 2025 • 52min
Are Referrals Enough for Accounting Firms? w/ Apoorv Dwivedi
Join Roger Knecht and guest expert Apoorv Dwivedi of Fixyr Marketing as they explore effective marketing strategies for accounting professionals on this episode of Building the Premier Accounting Firm. This episode delves into creating sustainable revenue opportunities, implementing balanced lead generation approaches, and measuring marketing success in the accounting industry. Learn how to transform your firm’s marketing from passive referrals to proactive growth strategies. In This Episode: Learn how to define marketing for accounting success, develop effective lead generation strategies, and implement measurable marketing tactics that drive results. Discover the balance between traditional referral marketing and modern lead generation techniques, while understanding crucial performance metrics for your firm’s growth. Key Takeaways: 💡 Define marketing as all actions creating revenue opportunities for your accounting firm. 🎯 Develop a balanced lead generation approach, combining referral strategies with hunting or fishing techniques. 📊 Track key performance indicators (KPIs) like leads generated per channel, cost per lead, and cost per acquisition to measure marketing effectiveness. 🌱 Nurture client relationships consistently to maintain top-of-mind awareness and encourage repeat business. 🛠️ Implement a strategic marketing plan with regular check-ins to avoid the common trap of delayed or abandoned marketing efforts. Thank you for joining us on this episode of Building the Premier Accounting Firm. For more tips on lead generation and how to grow your business, call our team at 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: Get your free Marketing Gap Analysis. In under 15 minutes this assessment will reveal the strengths and gaps in your marketing compared to the best-in-class standards for accounting, bookkeeping, tax, CAS and business advisory firms,along with recommendations on what you can do to improve.Get started now at https://fixyr.com/fixyourmarketing 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

Mar 17, 2025 • 47sec
This Week on BPAF : Apoorv Dwivedi
Join us this Wednesday for a new episode where Roger discusses marketing and lead generation with Apoorv Dwivedi.

Mar 15, 2025 • 34min
Rewind : Seeing Abundance When Selling Your Accounting Services w/ Michelle Weinstein
Join us as we revisit this conversation from 2020! Michelle is an optimist, seeing opportunity and potential new clients everywhere. Selling accounting services can be fun and when you combine passion with an abundant mindset there is no stopping your potential to build your business. Listen as Roger and Michelle discuss principles you can use to become comfortable selling your quality accounting services. In the end, it’s about helping your clients and letting them see you as the expert to help them. Your Host: Roger Knecht, president of Universal Accounting Center Our Guest: Michelle Weinstein Michelle trains accountants how to use her unique and proven system to sell more services, overcome any objection, and have a life full of abundance! She has successfully trained CPAs how to actually and efficiently IMPLEMENT powerful techniques adding $10k to $50k in additional revenue every month. Michelle is also the host of the, The Abundant Accountant Podcast is where accounting professionals come to learn the most efficient and powerful ways to grow their firm, sharpen their skills, and have consistent increasing revenue. She cover topics from networking, pricing, finding your ideal clients, increasing cash flow, setting boundaries with clients and much more so accounting professionals can stop giving away their time and expertise away for free and start being paid their value and worth! Sponsors: Universal Accounting Center Helping accounting professionals confidently and competently offer quality accounting services to get paid what they are worth. Offers: Michelle shared that she sees way too many accounting professionals who are overworked, underpaid, and underappreciated. Is that you? 8weeksalesmastery.com That’s why I’ve created a simple 5-step process for accountants so that you can feel confident positioning yourself as the expert, get consistent, high-quality referrals, and easily get people to say YES to paying you what you’re worth (no matter how much you charge), while working less all year round. Go to 5stepstoabundance.com now if you want to stop waiting around for the busy season every year and have an accounting practice full of high-level clients who are happy to pay you the fees you deserve and who actually appreciate the work you do for them. Get the sales training built specifically for accounting professionals so that you can Sell with Confidence applying the principles of Strategic Selling. Take a moment and download this overview of the process with this Cut to the Chase pdf Get a FREE copy of each of the two books 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 accountant's library to provide the value clients look for 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 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

Mar 14, 2025 • 48min
Get Lifelong Accounting Clients: Relationship-based Secrets w/ Ralph Estep Jr.
Join Roger Knecht as he welcomes Ralph Estep Jr. to Building the Premier Accounting Firm. In this enlightening conversation, they explore relationship-based accounting, the integration of faith and purpose in business operations, and strategies for developing a comprehensive accounting practice. Learn how meaningful client connections and a dedication to service can elevate your firm to new heights. In This Episode: • Building lasting client relationships through authentic care and understanding • Integrating faith-based principles into accounting practices • Developing diverse skills to better serve clients • Creating value through proactive communication • Balancing technical expertise with personal connection Key Takeaways: 🤝 Build Lifelong Relationships: Focus on making genuine connections with clients, understanding their personal and professional goals. 🌟 Incorporate Faith and Purpose: Align your accounting practice with your values to create a fulfilling and impactful career. 🌱 Be a Well-Rounded Professional: Diversify your experiences and interests to better relate to clients and offer holistic advice. ❤️ Show Genuine Care: Prioritize your clients’ well-being to improve the quality of your services and foster long-term loyalty. 🗣️ Communicate Proactively: Use technology and personal interactions to keep clients informed and engaged. Thank you for joining us on this episode of Building the Premier Accounting Firm. For more information on how you can start your own accounting practice, or implement the strategies mentioned in this episode at your firm, connect with our team at 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: Get your copy of Mastering Your Finances by Ralph Estep. It's your roadmap to a secure and thriving financial future. Also, take advantage of this opportunity to enroll for free in Personal and Family Finance. 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

Mar 13, 2025 • 31sec
This Week on BPAF : Ralph Estep Jr.
Join us this Wednesday for a new episode where Roger discusses building relationships with Ralph Estep Jr.

Mar 12, 2025 • 53min
Fractional CFO Secrets: Scale Your Accounting Firm w/ Sarah Webb
In this episode of “Building the Premier Accounting Firm,” host Roger Knech interviews Sarah Webb, founder of Web CFO, about transitioning from corporate finance to launching a successful virtual CFO and accounting business. Sarah shares insights on marketing strategies, fractional CFO services, and building a client-centric firm. Learn how her diverse experience and marketing savvy propelled her accounting business. Key Takeaways: Embrace relationship building over aggressive sales tactics for sustainable growth. Define fractional CFO services as a blend of accurate accounting and forward-looking financial insights. Focus on KPIs such as accounts receivable, cash flow, and gross profit to drive client success. Encourage business owners to delegate effectively and take time off to build self-sustaining businesses. Implement fraud prevention measures, including receipt verification and accounting email management. Featured Quotes: Sarah Webb: “I don’t want to say I’m always selling, I’m always relationship building. And just because you tell me no now doesn’t mean it’s no forever.” Roger Knech: “Accounting is the language of business and the company is communicating via these numbers to the business owner what is going well, what needs attention, what needs to be fixed.” Sarah Webb: “I am grateful for the flexibility of this profession that allows me to kind of do all different things.” Thank you for joining us for this episode of Building the Premier Accounting Firm. Learn more about how you can add CFO services to your firm’s offerings by calling our team at 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: Enroll for free in this course for Personal & Family Financials Then get your free copies of “Your Strategic Accountant” and “Your Profit & Growth Expert”. 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