
Accounting High
Accounting High is the premier practice management podcast for tax and accounting firm owners. Join us for conversations about running a modern accounting practice in the cloud. We are the next generation of accounting professionals questioning the state of the accounting profession.
Latest episodes

Aug 25, 2024 • 45min
222 Coaching vs Consulting: How to Run a Meeting with Advisory LITE (feat. Chris Hervochon, CPA)
Episode 222
Sign up for Workflow Queen's Breakthrough for Bookkeepers & Accountants for $1,000 OFF Sale dates: August 23rd - August 30th
https://www.breakthroughwithsystems.com/join-live
FACULTY: Chris Hervochon, CPA aka 'The Herv'
CLASS: #Shoperations
In this episode of Shoperations at Accounting High, Chris Hervochon, CPA aka "The Herv" shares his journey from high school accounting to founding A Better Way CPA. Chris delves into his strategies for using automation and advisory services to grow his firm. He also discusses his experiences with Leadership Academy, the importance of networking, and the role of Herve AI in enhancing accounting processes. Whether you're new to the accounting world or looking to break through business ceilings, this episode is packed with insights and practical advice to help you streamline operations and scale your firm.
📣 Shout Outs: Shannon Weinstein, Zapier, Make, AICPA, Barry Melancon, Gary Wood, Zendesk, Karbon, Keeper, Scrutinize, Verify IQ, Ignition, Herve.ai, Better Way CPA
Chapters:
00:00 Introduction
04:17 High School and College Journey
07:16 Transition to Accounting and CPA Journey
07:38 Starting a Side Hustle
10:42 Building a Firm and Finding a Niche
13:02 Automation and Technological Innovations
23:51 Overcoming Rejection and Finding Success
24:49 Taking the Leap: Quitting the Job
25:46 The Importance of Networking
26:56 Defining and Delivering Advisory Services
30:26 Sales and Discovery Process
34:46 Marketing Strategies and Client Acquisition
36:36 Innovating with Herv AI
42:16 Future Aspirations and Final Advice
🔗 Connect With Us On LinkedIn! 🔗
Chris Hervochon, CPA
📎 https://www.linkedin.com/in/chrishervochon/
Better Way CPA
📎 https://www.linkedin.com/company/betterwaycpa/
📎 http://betterwaycpa.com
Herv.ai
📎 https://www.linkedin.com/company/herv-ai/
📎 https://www.herv.ai/
Scotty OKR Scarano
📎 https://www.linkedin.com/in/scottscarano/
Accounting High
📎 https://www.linkedin.com/company/accounting-high/
📎 https://www.accountinghigh.com/
Tags:
Shoperations, Accounting High, Accounting, Podcast, Shop Class, Firm Operations, Systems And Processes, Coaching Vs Consulting, CFO Lite, Chris Hervochon, Financial Automation, Business Advisory Services, Workflow Optimization, Accounting And Bookkeeping, Monthly Financial Reviews, Zapier Integration, Make Integration, Small Business Advisory, Professional Services Automation, AI In Accounting, Herv.AI, CPA Journey, Accounting High Podcast, BNI for Accountants, Tech In Accounting, EOS Implementation, Soft Skills For Accountants, Scaling Accounting Firms

Aug 18, 2024 • 55min
221 $4M Niched Firm Built on Clear Communication (feat. Zane Stevens, CA)
Episode 221
FACULTY: Zane Stevens, CA
CLASS: #Shoperations
In this episode of Accounting High, Scotty is in shop class with Zane Stevens, founder of Protea Financials. Zane takes us through his journey from South Africa to California, where he set up a thriving accounting firm specializing in the wine industry. They chat about the importance of good communication, finding your career niche, and using professional networks to grow. Zane also points out the cool perks of having a team spread across South Africa. Join in for some solid advice on career growth, managing a remote team, and tips for budding accountants trying to carve out their path.
💛 Sign up for Workflow Queen's FREE The POWER to Breakthrough Bootcamp:
https://learn.workflowqueen.com/power-bootcamp
Bootcamp dates: August 19th - August 23rd
📣 Shout Outs:
Nikole Mackenzie, ProVisors, Karbon, Slack, WhatsApp, Zoom, Skype, Microsoft Teams
Chapters:
0:00 221 Teaser
02:25 Introduction
04:51 Journey into Accounting
05:51 Starting Protea Financial
09:03 Expanding Beyond Wineries
15:02 Building a Team in South Africa
29:25 Internal Communication Tools
32:19 Relocating to the U.S.
33:56 Business Development and Marketing
37:03 The Power of LinkedIn
39:40 Starting Podcasts
42:46 Protea Conversations Podcast
53:06 Final Thoughts and Advice
🔗 Connect With Us! 🔗
Zane Stevens, CA
📎https://www.linkedin.com/in/zane-stevens/
Protea Financials
📎 https://www.linkedin.com/company/protea-financial/
📎 https://proteafinancial.com/
Protea Weekly Podcast
📎 https://open.spotify.com/show/1ys5AIAIqd1Sgl01uczbRK
📎 https://www.youtube.com/@proteaacademy1703
Scotty OKR Scarano
📎 https://www.linkedin.com/in/scottscarano/
Accounting High
📎 https://www.linkedin.com/company/accounting-high/
📎 https://www.accountinghigh.com/
Tags: Shoperations, Accounting High, Accounting, Podcast, Shop Class, Firm Operations, Systems And Processes, communication tips, accounting niche, wine industry, accounting services, word of mouth, business growth, podcasting, U.S. immigration, work-life balance, remote teams, South Africa, mentorship, Protea Financial, client relationships, workflow optimization, business development, scaling business, professional networking, bookkeeping services, financial compliance

Aug 11, 2024 • 46min
220 Find Your next BIG Breakthrough with the Workflow Queen (feat. Alyssa Lang)
Episode 220
💛 Sign up Workflow Queen's FREE The POWER to Breakthrough Bootcamp:
https://learn.workflowqueen.com/power-bootcamp
Bootcamp dates: August 19th - August 23rd 2024
FACULTY: Alyssa Lang aka The Workflow Queen
CLASS: #TheGuide
In this episode, hang out in the guidance counsel office with Alyssa Lang as she spills the beans on her journey from bartending on the side to reigning as the Workflow Queen. She tells how her side hustle became a successful million-dollar business. Learn how Alyssa navigated her career and personal obstacles to emerge as a pioneer in the accounting and bookkeeping community.
📣 Shout Outs:
Drake Tax Software, QuickBooks Online, Xero, Ben Robinson’s Bookkeeper Launch, Asana, Serena Shoup, Karbon, Alex Beaton, Ariel Schiffer’s Dreampro Courses
Chapters:
0:00 Teaser
03:58 Introducing Alyssa
04:31 College Days and Career Shifts
05:49 The Start of the Tax Hustle
10:48 Transition to Bookkeeping
13:20 The Birth of Workflow Queen
17:21 Challenges and Growth
22:01 Joining Together We Launch
22:40 Overcoming Initial Rejections
23:15 Learning the Art of Launching
24:01 First Successful Launch
25:50 Dealing with Money Mindset Issues
28:54 Gaining Recognition and Expanding Influence
32:48 Creating the Breakthrough Program
34:59 Launching and Refining Breakthrough
41:47 Reflections and Conclusion
🔗 Connect With Us! 🔗
Alyssa Lang
📎 https://www.linkedin.com/in/alyssa-lang-wq/
📎 https://www.linkedin.com/in/alyssa-lang-mb/
Workflow Queen
📎 https://www.linkedin.com/company/workflow-queen/
📎 https://www.workflowqueen.com/
📎 https://www.linkedin.com/company/workflow-queen/
Magnetic Bookkeeping
📎 https://www.linkedin.com/company/magnetic-bookkeeping/
📎 https://www.magneticbookkeeping.com/
📎 https://www.instagram.com/magneticprofits/
Scotty OKR Scarano
📎 https://www.linkedin.com/in/scottscarano/
Accounting High
📎 https://www.linkedin.com/company/accounting-high/
📎 https://www.accountinghigh.com/
Tags: The Guide, Accounting High, Accounting, Podcast, Guidance, Vision, Firm Owners, Advice, entrepreneurship, Workflow Queen, Alyssa Lang, business growth, success strategies, breakthrough, marketing coach, bookkeeping, tax business, mindset development, workflow management, coaching success, business systems, team hiring, productivity, Asana setup, tax practice, online courses, business automation, Alyssa Lang podcast

Aug 4, 2024 • 44min
219 Finding Fulfillment in a Nonprofit Niche (feat. Questian Telka, EA)
Episode 219
Sign up for Workflow Queen's FREE The POWER to Breakthrough Bootcamp: https://learn.workflowqueen.com/power-bootcamp
*Bootcamp dates: August 19th - August 23rd, 2024
FACULTY: Questian Telka, EA
CLASS: #TheGuide
Join us as Questian Telka, an experienced accountant with a passion for nonprofit work, discusses her journey, challenges, and successes in the field. Learn about her unique approach to nonprofit accounting, particularly within disability advocacy, and her dedication to helping these organizations thrive. Discover her tips on scaling a business, finding a niche, and trusting one's instincts. Tune in to see how she balances her professional aspirations with her personal mission.
📣 Shout Outs:
Deloitte, Misty Schachtell, Theatre of Public Speaking, Megan Tarnow, Fast Fund, Xero, QuickBooks, Google Suite, Gusto, Anchor, Keeper, Dext, Keeper Receipts, Ben Stein, Appy Camp, Jason Staats, Karbon, Right Tool, UnCat, Tara Kelley
Chapters:
00:00 Teaser
02:39 Introduction
03:13 The Origin of the Name 'Questian'
04:01 Journey into Accounting
04:42 Nonprofit Experience and QuickBooks Mastery
07:10 Transition to Entrepreneurship
13:30 Personal Connection to Disability Advocacy
19:23 Teaching and Public Speaking
23:27 Navigating Nonprofit Accounting
23:53 Marketing Strategies for Niches
24:13 Client Acquisition and Referrals
25:11 Leveraging YouTube and LinkedIn
25:38 Starting a Podcast
26:28 Future Aspirations and Nonprofit Vision
27:32 Balancing Work and Passion
29:33 Client Selection and Best Practices
32:03 Software and Tools for Nonprofits
🔗 Connect With Us On Linkedin! 🔗
Questian Telka
📎 https://www.linkedin.com/in/questian-telka-ea-78383666/
ReQoncile Financials
📎 https://www.linkedin.com/company/reqoncile-financials/
📎 https://www.reqoncilefinancials.com/
Scotty OKR Scarano
📎 https://www.linkedin.com/in/scottscarano/
Accounting High
📎 https://www.linkedin.com/company/accounting-high/
📎 https://www.accountinghigh.com/
Tags: #TheGuide #AccountingHigh #Accounting #Podcast #Guidance #Vision #FirmOwners #Advice #NonprofitAccounting #DisabilityAdvocacy #AccountingScaling #QuickBooksNonprofits #EASpecialist #NonprofitBookkeeping #FinancialHealthNonprofits #AccountingNiche #GovernmentGrants #RestrictedAssets #QuickBooksClasses #EffectiveBookkeeping #NonprofitBranding #WorkflowQueen #AccountingBootcamp #QuestianTelka #Mission-DrivenAccounting #AccountingHigh #AccountingFlexibility #NonprofitTaxation

Jul 28, 2024 • 48min
218 Offering Fractional CFO Services, Implementing EOS, and CMA vs CPA (feat. Lukas Sundahl, CMA)
Episode 218
FACULTY: Lukas Sundahl, CMA
CLASS: #Shoperations
In this episode, Lukas Sundahl, the Founder of Accounting Couture, discusses the opportunities in accounting and explains the differences between CMA and CPA. Discover insights into offering Fractional CFO services, implementing EOS, and valuable advice for aspiring accountants considering different certifications. Plus, he talks about how he turned his interest in accounting into a successful personal brand.
📣 Shout Outs:
Backbone CFO, Michael King, The CFO Accelerator, QBO, Business Central, Microsoft, Gary Vaynerchuk, Dan Martell, Gino Wickman
📚 Book Recommendations 📚
Crushing It by Gary Vaynerchuk
Buy Back Your Time by Dan Martell
Traction by Gino Wickman
⬇️Episodes Referenced⬇️
Episode 170 - Accelerating Impact by Thinking Differently (feat. Michael King, CFO)
https://open.spotify.com/episode/55ejcvgcbi21ZzgD1ID6jx?si=5HkgamdcQSmhAb6l8sTZ_Q
Chapters:
0:00 Teaser
02:20 Lucas Sundahl's Journey
03:05 Transition to Accounting
04:36 Career Progression in Accounting
06:01 Choosing the CMA Over the CPA
09:10 Starting Accounting Couture
10:51 Building a Brand on TikTok
16:49 Networking and Opportunities
18:05 Offering CFO Services
23:24 Joining a Fractional CFO Firm
25:24 Introduction to Backbone CFO
25:35 The Role of a Fractional CFO
27:13 Systematizing with EOS
28:22 Building Backbone's Offerings with EOS
29:50 Team Structure and Growth
30:54 Focusing on High-Value Work
38:53 Promoting Accounting Couture
43:09 Buy Back Your Time
45:46 Parting Advice and Mentorship
🔗 Connect With Us On LinkedIn! 🔗
Lukas Sundahl
📎 https://www.linkedin.com/in/lukasnsundahl/
Scotty OKR Scarano
📎 https://www.linkedin.com/in/scottscarano/
Accounting High
📎 https://www.linkedin.com/company/accounting-high/
📎 https://www.accountinghigh.com/
Tags:
#Shoperations #AccountingHigh #Accounting #Podcast #ShopClass #FirmOperations #SystemsAndProcesses #FractionalCFO #AccountingServices #CMAvsCPA #EOSImplementation #LukasSundahl #AccountingCareer #TikTokMarketing #CPAExam #CMAExam #CFOServices #BusinessStrategy #ERPSystems #AccountingCouture #AccountingCreativity #ManagementAccounting #FinanceDegree #EntrepreneurialOperatingSystem #StrategicPlanning #ManufacturingAccounting #FinancialForecasting

Jul 21, 2024 • 54min
217 Timeless Guidance from an Accounting Student (feat. Chayton Farlee)
Episode 217
FACULTY: Chayton Farlee
CLASS: #TheGuide
Join us in this enlightening episode where young accounting professional Chayton Farlee shares his journey of discovering the vibrant side of accounting beyond the classroom. Tune in to hear his insightful conversation on breaking free from the traditional 'Big Four' mindset, the importance of real-world experience, and his passion for making accounting both fun and impactful.
📣 Shout Outs:
Blake Oliver, David Leary, Cloud Accounting Podcast, Logan Graff, Jason Staats, Ryan Lazanis, Liz Mason, XeroCon, Scaling New Heights, Randy Crabtree, The Unique CPA, EY, Xero, QuickBooks, TaxDome, Karbon, Ramp, Ignition, Relay
Chapters:
0:00 Teaser
1:54 Meet Chayton Farlee
2:19 Discovering a New Path in Accounting
4:00 Choosing Between Big Four and Small Firm
4:40 The Importance of Family and Work-Life Balance
14:05 Chayton's Podcast: Networking and Learning
19:07 Applying Knowledge to Internship
23:53 Real Life Accounting vs The Classroom
26:41 The Future of Accounting
28:56 Breaking Free from the Big Four
29:44 The Pipeline Problem
36:41 The Importance of Soft Skills
37:55 Diverse Client Portfolios and Services
38:48 Exploring the Tech Stack
44:22 Xero, XeroCon, and the Xero Rap
51:17 Advice for Aspiring Accountants
🔗 Connect With Us On Linkedin! 🔗
Chayton Farlee
📎 https://www.linkedin.com/in/chaytonfarlee/
The Accounting Conversations Podcast
📎 https://open.spotify.com/show/5J7B7qft08XDn975BvE8Qo?si=b64ee72daf274ee5
Scotty OKR Scarano
📎 https://www.linkedin.com/in/scottscarano/
Accounting High
📎 https://www.linkedin.com/company/accounting-high/
📎 https://www.accountinghigh.com/
Tags:
The Guide, Accounting High, Accounting, Podcast, Guidance, Vision, Firm Owners, Advice, Accounting Journey, Chayton Farlee, Internship Experience, Big Four vs Small Firm, Accounting Podcasts, Remote Firm, CAAS Firms, Accounting Education, Work-Life Balance, Family Priorities, Career Paths, Young Professionals, Accounting Innovation, Networking Tips, Real World Accounting, Tech Stack, XeroCon, TaxDome Implementation, Bookkeeping, Small Business Advisory

Jul 14, 2024 • 45min
216 Market, Grow, Teach, and Lead with a $10M Mindset (feat. Alyssa J. Dillon)
Episode 216
FACULTY: Alyssa J. Dillon
CLASS: #SocialStudies
In this episode, we explore the inspiring journey of Alyssa J. Dillon from an unwilling accounting student to a successful entrepreneur and profit strategist. Learn how Alyssa built her brand, established herself as a marketing expert, and how she now mentors accountants on leveraging social media and marketing strategies to grow their firms. This episode is packed with insights on overcoming imposter syndrome, harnessing the power of social media, scaling businesses, and much more. Tune in to discover the keys to taking your accounting practice to the next level!
📣 Shout Outs: Randy Crabtree, Jody Grunden
Chapters:
0:00 Teaser
01:29 Introduction
01:42 Discovering Accounting High
02:33 Alyssa's Journey into Accounting
04:37 From College to CFO
06:10 Starting a Fractional CFO Company
07:40 Building an Online Presence
09:45 Creating a Unique Value Proposition
13:33 Transition to Teaching Accountants
24:20 Marketing for Accountants: Beyond the CPA License
26:11 Overcoming Visibility Challenges in Marketing
26:58 Leveraging Social Media for Business Growth
30:17 Building a Team and Transferring Authority
34:12 Scaling Your Business: Mindset and Strategies
40:01 Final Advice for Aspiring CEOs
🔗 Connect With Us On Linkedin! 🔗
Alyssa J. Dillon
📎 https://www.linkedin.com/in/alyssa-dillon/
📎 https://alyssajdillon.com/
Scotty OKR Scarano
📎 https://www.linkedin.com/in/scottscarano/
Accounting High
📎 https://www.linkedin.com/company/accounting-high/
📎 https://www.accountinghigh.com/
Tags:
SocialStudies, AccountingHigh, Accounting, Podcast, Marketing, SocialMedia, Market Grow, Teach Lead, Account High, Business Strategy, Profit Mindset, Entrepreneur, Marketing Tactics, Fractional CFO, Online Presence, Finance Tips, Business Coaching, Accounting Strategy, Digital Marketing, Social Network Marketing, Growth Mindset, Business Development, Marketing Tips, Financial Strategy

Jul 7, 2024 • 41min
215 Cracking the Code in Creating a Happy Accounting Firm (feat Samantha Musser, CPA)
Episode 215
FACULTY: Samantha Musser, CPA
CLASS: #TheGuide
In this episode of Accounting High, we sit down in the guidance counselor’s office with Samantha Musser, CPA also known as 'The Happy Accountant'. Samantha shares her journey from studying fashion merchandising to becoming a CPA and starting her own accounting firm. She discusses the key to happiness in the accounting profession. Learn about Samantha's unique approach to creating a happy and efficient accounting practice, her strategies for maintaining work-life balance, and her upcoming venture to help other accountants build their own successful practices.
📣 Shout Outs:
Monday.com
Chapters:
0:00 Teaser
01:49 Introduction
03:26 Samantha's Journey into Accounting
05:52 Building a Happy Accounting Firm
14:54 Being a Happy Accountant
23:17 Finding Happiness in Business
23:46 The Happy Accountant Persona
24:58 Client Relationships and Challenges
27:19 Core Values and Firm Name
33:02 Saying No and Specialization
36:59 Future Goals and Community Building
🔗 Connect With Us On Linkedin! 🔗
Samantha Musser
📎 https://www.linkedin.com/in/samanthamussercpa/
📎 https://www.instagram.com/samanthamussercpa/
Chime CPA
📎 https://www.chime.cpa/
Scotty OKR Scarano
📎 https://www.linkedin.com/in/scottscarano/
Accounting High
📎 https://www.linkedin.com/company/accounting-high/
📎 https://www.accountinghigh.com/
Tags:
Accounting, Happiness, CPA, Firm, Outsourcing, Efficiency, Business, Processes, Clients, Workflow, Marketing, LinkedIn, Remote, Growth, Innovation, Community, Consulting, Tax-free, Work-life balance, Course

Jun 30, 2024 • 50min
214 Grow and Scale Your Tax Practice OR Have More Freedom and Fun? (feat. Yuri Kapilovich, CPA)
Episode 214
FACULTY: Yuri Kapilovich, CPA
CLASS: #Shoperations
In this episode of Accounting High, Scott interviews Yuri Kapilovich, the 'Fun CPA,' to discuss his non-traditional approach to running a CPA practice. They explore Yuri's career journey from numerous CPA firms to his own practice, emphasizing his pursuit of individual tax over corporate tax and his strategy for maintaining a balanced and enjoyable work life. Scott and Yuri discuss the challenges of scaling his firm while preserving his lifestyle, and the unique value he offers to clients and potential hires.
📣 Shout Out: EY
Chapters:
0:00 Teaser
02:54 Yuri's Journey to Becoming a CPA
07:30 Challenges in Public Accounting
13:28 Decision to Go Independent
18:31 Starting the Fun CPA Brand
26:48 Lifestyle Changes
28:10 Firm Hard Numbers
28:56 Deciding on Future Growth
29:31 To Scale or Not to Scale, That is the Question
39:47 Marketing and Client Acquisition Options
45:42 Final Thoughts and Future Plans
🔗 Connect With Us On Linkedin! 🔗
Yuri Kapilovich
📎 https://www.linkedin.com/in/ykapilovich/
Kapilovich & Associates, LLC
📎 https://www.linkedin.com/company/ykallc/
📎 https://www.thefuncpa.co/
Scotty OKR Scarano
📎 https://www.linkedin.com/in/scottscarano/
Accounting High
📎 https://www.linkedin.com/company/accounting-high/
📎 https://www.accountinghigh.com/
Tags:
Tax Practice, CPA Career, Accounting Career, Business Growth, Tax Season, CPA Journey, Accounting Firm, Business Owner, CPA Advice, Small Business, Financial Planning, Tax Strategy, Accounting High, CPA Lifestyle, Business Scaling, Accountant's Life, Tax Preparation, Accounting Tips, CPA Success, Public Accounting, Shoperations, AccountingHigh, Accounting, Podcast, ShopClass, FirmOperations, SystemsAndProcesses

Jun 23, 2024 • 42min
213 Compliance Complexities of Cannabis Accounting (feat. Naomi Granger, CPA)
Episode 213
FACULTY: Naomi Granger, CPA
CLASS: #TheGuide
In this episode of Accounting High, Scotty interviews Naomi Granger, CPA, founder of The National Association of Cannabis Accounting and Tax Professionals (NACAT) and the historic co-founder of Dope CFO. Naomi shares her journey from traditional corporate accounting to the niche field of cannabis accounting, highlighting the industry's growth, challenges, and complexities. They discuss regulatory issues, the importance of niche expertise, social equity programs, and the broader implications of recent changes in cannabis scheduling.
Chapters:
0:00 Teaser
03:33 Discovering the Cannabis Industry
12:24 The Legal Landscape of Cannabis
14:00 Intoxicating Hemp
16:45 The Future of Cannabis Regulation
18:30 Building the Cannabis Accountants Association
20:55 Impact of Schedule 3 on Cannabis Businesses
23:51 Banking Challenges for Cannabis Businesses
31:11 Hope for the Future
32:08 Social Equity in the Cannabis Industry
36:03 Certified Cannabis Seed Counters
40:50 Conclusion and Contact Information
🔗 Connect With Us On Linkedin! 🔗
Naomi Granger
📎 https://www.linkedin.com/in/naomigranger/
National Association of Cannabis Accounting and Tax Professionals
📎 https://www.linkedin.com/company/nacatpros/
📎 https://nacatpros.org/
Scotty OKR Scarano
📎 https://www.linkedin.com/in/scottscarano/
Accounting High
📎 https://www.linkedin.com/company/accounting-high/
📎 https://www.accountinghigh.com/
Tags:
TheGuide, AccountingHigh, Accounting, Podcast, Guidance, Vision, FirmOwners, Advice, Cannabis, Accounting, Compliance, Cannabis Accounting, Cannabis Tax, Cannabis Regulation, Social Equity, Cannabis Business, Cannabis Industry, Schedule 3, 280E Tax, Cannabis Compliance, CPA, Cannabis Finance, Cannabis Legal, Hemp, Marijuana Tax, Cannabis Banking, Cannabis Legalization, Marijuana Industry