CPA Trendlines Podcasts

In this engaging discussion, Adam Lean, CEO and co-founder of TheCFOProject.com, challenges accountants to break free from a stagnant compliance model. He argues that many professionals are perceived as interchangeable, limiting their ability to raise prices and enhance client relationships. Lean emphasizes the shift towards proactive advisory roles, where accountants can add real value and engage with clients meaningfully. Ultimately, he calls for a transformation in the industry to foster growth and support for businesses.

PE doesn't have to strip your culture.With Jean CaragherFor CPA TrendlinesOn a recent episode of Gear Up for Growth, powered by CPA Trendlines, Aprio CEO Richard Kopelman offered a behind-the-scenes look at what’s powering his firm’s remarkable trajectory—from a traditional CPA firm to a diversified advisory powerhouse. In conversation with Jean Caragher, president of Capstone Marketing, Kopelman credited Aprio’s sustained momentum to two key drivers: a relentlessly reinforced culture and a bold leap into private equity. Gear Up for Growth spotlights the best strategies for smart and efficient growth in today's competitive landscape. More Gear Up for Growth here | More Jean Caragher here | Get her best-selling handbook, The 90-Day Marketing Plan for CPA Firms, here | More CPA Trendlines videos and podcasts here Since stepping into the CEO role in 2013, Kopelman has steered Aprio into the ranks of the top 25 U.S. accounting firms. At the heart of that rise? A set of “31 Fundamentals” that shape everything from team interactions to client engagements.

“Leaders should model respect, not just expect it.” Accounting ARCWith Liz Mason, Byron Patrick, and Donny ShimamotoCenter for Accounting TransformationIn the age of digital disruption and hybrid work, professional etiquette often feels like an afterthought. But in the latest episode of Accounting ARC, hosts Liz Mason, CPA; Donny Shimamoto, CPA.CITP, CGMA; and Byron Patrick, CPA.CITP, CGMA, argue the opposite: manners are more relevant—and strategic—than ever.  MORE Accounting ARC: Resilience, Real Talk, and the Road to Mental Wellness | Blockchain Could Still Reshape Accounting | What Gen Z Wants from Business | Firm Differentiation Depends Upon Client Service | Ron Baker: Surviving Tariff Turmoil | Are We Ready for the Hidden Risks of AI in Accounting? | The Research Imperative: Why Data Drives Accounting Success | How Coaching Can Unlock Professional Success | Demystifying Accounting Governance | Top 10 Red Flags to Watch for in Accounting Offices | Jeremy Dubow: Private Equity as a Catalyst for Growth “Manners make a difference,” says Patrick, CEO of VERIFYiQ and co-founder of TB Academy. “They impact hiring, client service, team dynamics—everything.” 

Treat cryptocurrencies like the next dot-com bubble.Quick Tax TipWith Art WernerCPE TodayAs cryptocurrencies continue to infiltrate everyday investment portfolios and client conversations, seasoned tax educator and CPA Art Werner offers a stark warning to practitioners: “Crypto concerns me—and I think it should concern accountants.” Click here for more Art WernerIn a recent episode of Quick Tax Tips with Art Werner, the well-respected tax advisor and educator peels back the hype to expose the risks tax professionals and their clients face when navigating the unpredictable world of digital currency. With over 20,000 cryptocurrencies in existence globally and little regulation governing many of them, Werner believes the speculative nature of crypto investments resembles past financial manias—with potentially devastating consequences.

“The real question isn’t whether a firm is diverse enough. It's whether the people in that firm feel like they truly belong there.” MOVE Like ThisWith Bonnie Buol RuszczykFor CPA TrendlinesIn this episode of MOVE Like This, host Bonnie Buol Ruszczyk and guest Donny Shimamoto, CPA.CITP, CGMA, explore the complex landscape of diversity, equity, and inclusion (DEI) in the accounting profession, specifically in the current political climate.Shimamoto, founder and managing director of IntrapriseTechKnowlogies LLC and founder and inspiration architect for the Center for Accounting Transformation, shares insights into the challenges faced by underrepresented professionals, drawing from his personal experiences as an Asian male in leadership roles. They discuss the persistent barriers that prevent women and people of color from advancing to top leadership positions despite making up a significant portion of accounting graduates.  More MOVEThe discussion delves into the current political climate surrounding DEI efforts, acknowledging the pushback and misconceptions about diversity initiatives. Shimamoto emphasizes that these efforts are not about quotas or tokenism but about creating genuine opportunities and a sense of belonging for all professionals. The conversation highlights the importance of moving beyond mere inclusion to fostering an environment where every team member feels they truly belong and can contribute meaningfully.  

In this engaging conversation with Jean Zick, CEO and co-founder of Juna Financial Solutions, listeners gain insights into building a remote-first, people-centric accounting firm. Zick emphasizes the significance of employee happiness, stating that satisfied team members create happier clients. She shares how flexible schedules benefit working mothers and the all-woman team's strengths. The discussion also tackles redefining traditional accounting services and the vital role of nurturing soft skills alongside technical training for future-ready teams.

David Podell, CEO of Business Benefits Consultants, shares his expertise in retirement planning and its critical importance in tax advisory. He emphasizes how small business owners can maximize their financial health through strategic retirement plans. Discussing the Secure Act 2.0 and solo 401(k)s, Podell clarifies common misconceptions and highlights tax benefits that can significantly boost savings. The conversation also explores the importance of taking proactive steps rather than overthinking, providing essential insights for both financial advisors and entrepreneurs.

Join accounting trailblazers Randy Johnston, a veteran tech strategist, Trevor Greenway, CEO of Interval who reveals real-time advisory opportunities, Harry Blum from RSM Canada discussing change management challenges, and Jennifer O’Carroll of HansaWorld sharing tech insights. They tackle talent shortages and the urgency for firms to shift from compliance to advisory roles. With the impact of AI and private equity in spotlight, they emphasize the need for a mindset change to thrive in a competitive landscape.

Matt Criss, an Executive Business Coach at Moss Adams and author of Conscious Growth, shares powerful insights on intentional growth in accounting. He emphasizes the need for accountability and self-reflection to combat stagnation. Criss discusses the generational dynamics in the profession and the importance of adapting to technological changes. He highlights how a positive mindset can overcome challenges, advocating for a culture of growth within firms. Overall, it's about leading more fulfilling lives, not just advancing careers.

From mindful walking to redefining worth, this conversation reveals what it really takes to thrive. Accounting ARCWith Arpan GrewalCenter for Accounting TransformationIn the latest Student-Led Conversations episode of Accounting ARC, high school business student Arpan Grewal steps in as guest host for a raw, reflective episode centered on mental health and resilience. In conversation with Jina Etienne, CPA, CGMA, CDE, CEO of Etienne Consulting; Rafael Casas, senior consultant with Workday; and Kiera Speed, inspiration logistician for the Center for Accounting Transformation, the episode marks a powerful contribution to Mental Health Awareness Month.  MORE Accounting ARC: Blockchain Could Still Reshape Accounting | What Gen Z Wants from Business | Firm Differentiation Depends Upon Client Service | Ron Baker: Surviving Tariff Turmoil | Are We Ready for the Hidden Risks of AI in Accounting? | The Research Imperative: Why Data Drives Accounting Success | How Coaching Can Unlock Professional Success | Demystifying Accounting Governance |  Top 10 Red Flags to Watch for in Accounting Offices | Jeremy Dubow: Private Equity as a Catalyst for Growth | Break the Burnout Cycle in Accounting | Accounting in Transition: 2024 Reflections & the Road Ahead | Ron Baker: Visions for the Accounting Profession | “Mental health is something we all struggle with, whether we’re students or seasoned professionals,” says Grewal. “It’s not talked about enough, especially in accounting.”