

Transforming: Tales of Business Evolution
AICPA & CIMA
The Small Firms Philosophy podcast has become “Transforming: tales of Business Evolution", a monthly show designed for firms of any size and scale, exploring innovative operating methods that help organizations adapt to a changing landscape. Hear from industry leaders sharing their experiences of reshaping their business models, delving into the dynamic world of business transformation, and inspiring you to explore new ways to evolve your own organization. "Transforming" started in November 2024 with 4 bonus episodes.
Brought to you by AICPA & CIMA’s Private Companies Practices Section (PCPS).
Brought to you by AICPA & CIMA’s Private Companies Practices Section (PCPS).
Episodes
Mentioned books

Feb 28, 2025 • 48min
TfP 007. The Power of Private Equity
Tim Brackney, CEO of Springline Advisory, and Josh Beck, Managing Partner at MarksNelson Advisory LLC, discuss the transformative power of private equity in accounting. They unveil how platform firms leverage private equity to drive growth and enhance operations while maintaining core values. Insights on leadership alignment, a people-first culture, and the importance of transparency in growth vision are shared. The duo emphasizes the necessity of cultural fit in partnerships and the role of technology in innovation and employee satisfaction.

Jan 30, 2025 • 46min
TfP 006. Starting your own firm and growing the right client base
Starting your own firm can be tough, but finding the right clients makes all the difference. In this episode, Yuri Kapilovich, CPA, a managing partner of Kapilovich & Associates shares his ideas about the importance of choosing quality clients and building strong relationships, rather than just focusing on quantity, He also discusses how to balance work, family and personal goals. If you’re thinking about starting your own firm, this episode has helpful tips to guide you. For more information on starting your own firm, explore the Starting Your CPA Practice - Planning Checklist. To find out more about transforming your business model, explore our business model transformation resources at aicpa-cima.com/tybm. You'll also see a link there to all of our previous podcast episodes. This is a podcast from AICPA & CIMA, together as the Association of International Certified Professional Accountants. To enjoy more conversations from our global community of accounting and finance professionals, explore our network of free shows here. Your feedback and comments welcomed at podcast@aicpa-cima.com

Dec 6, 2024 • 35min
TfP 005. The power of ESOPs in reshaping your firm's future
In this episode with Dan O’Hare, CPA, CGMA, Principal at Glenn Burdette, we explore why CPA firms might choose to implement an Employee Stock Ownership Plan (ESOP). With Dan's insights and expertise, we explore how ESOPs can facilitate smooth succession planning, boost employee retention and engagement and offer significant tax benefits. Additionally, we discuss how this alternative practice structure can improve performance and make the firm more attractive to potential hires. This conversation will help you understand the potential power of ESOPs in reshaping your firm’s future. To find out more about transforming your business model, explore our business model transformation resources at aicpa-cima.com/tybm. You'll also see a link there to all of our previous podcast episodes. This is a podcast from AICPA & CIMA, together as the Association of International Certified Professional Accountants. To enjoy more conversations from our global community of accounting and finance professionals, explore our network of free shows here. Your feedback and comments welcomed at podcast@aicpa-cima.com

Nov 29, 2024 • 47min
TfP 004. ESOP Insights. Unlocking the Future of Firm Ownership
Are you curious about how to empower your employees and fuel your firm’s growth? Listen as we explore employee stock ownership plans (ESOPs) with Mike Bannon, vice president at CSG Partners. You’ll discover how this powerful tool can help your firm achieve its long-term goals and implementation plans, from planning and financing to valuation and ownership transition. This episode offers insights into the benefits of leveraged ESOPs, which include not only tax advantages but also the ability to boost employee engagement and create lasting value for accounting firms. Discover why more firms are turning to this innovative ownership model and how it can shape the future of your business. Tune in and unlock the potential of shared ownership. To find out more about transforming your business model, explore our business model transformation resources at aicpa-cima.com/tybm. You'll also see a link there to all of our previous podcast episodes. This is a podcast from AICPA & CIMA, together as the Association of International Certified Professional Accountants. To enjoy more conversations from our global community of accounting and finance professionals, explore our network of free shows here. Your feedback and comments welcomed at podcast@aicpa-cima.com

Nov 15, 2024 • 50min
TfP 003. Getting Ready for 'Busy Season'
Chet Buchman, managing partner at Swindell, Jansen Hawk and Loyd, discusses his firm's inspiring path to reduce work hours to 45 a week, balancing productivity and employee satisfaction. Sandy Johns, a small firm owner from Atlanta, shares her transition to a remote team, focusing on subscription-based client accounting to ease stress. They both emphasize the power of networking, understanding individual and firm goals, and the importance of reshaping business practices for better work-life harmony. Their stories highlight innovation in accounting with a personal touch.

10 snips
Nov 11, 2024 • 34min
TfP 002. Adapting to change: Innovative strategies in accounting
Abbey Bemis, the First Chief Operating Officer of Payne Nickles & Company, and Mike Miller, its Managing Partner, share valuable insights on navigating the evolving accounting landscape. They discuss how technology and AI are reshaping tax seasons and the profession itself. The duo highlights innovative recruitment strategies that prioritize diverse backgrounds to attract talent. They also emphasize the importance of effective client communication and value delivery, showcasing how adaptability and fresh thinking are key to fostering firm growth.

8 snips
Nov 8, 2024 • 38min
TfP 001. Corporate governance model transformation
Jeff Wald, CEO of Pinion, a thriving $125 million firm focused on food and agriculture, dives into the nuances of corporate governance. He discusses strategies for major firm transformations and emphasizes the need for transparency in strategic planning. Jeff explains how to secure stakeholder buy-in amidst changes and the importance of fostering strong board relationships. He also explores evolving decision-making models and the significance of quick communication in adapting to challenges. Tune in for actionable insights that can empower your firm's governance practices.

Nov 4, 2024 • 58sec
Teaser: Our podcast is changing!
The look and feel of your podcast is about to evolve. We’re excited to share that the Small Firms Philosophy podcast is becoming "Transforming, tales of Business Evolution". New episodes start later in November 2024.

Oct 4, 2024 • 37min
SFP 97: Evolving governance structures for business success
In this podcast episode, we explore with Jonyce Bullock, CEO of Squire, how evolving governance structures can revolutionize your business model. Jonyce shares her journey through governance challenges, emphasizing the value of external support and diverse perspectives in navigating complex decisions. You’ll discover strategies for enhancing decision-making, implementing changes effectively and creating alignment within your firm. If you want to address your firm’s unique needs, this can’t-miss episode will show you how to articulate the “why” behind governance changes and choose the right model to foster agility. For more guidance on aligning your client base with your firm’s goals, check out the "PCPS Right-Sizing Your Client Base Toolkit" and other business model transformation resources.

Sep 6, 2024 • 1h 2min
SFP 96 Boosting firm capabilities with offshoring
Are you facing a talent shortage? Offshoring may be the answer. Our guest Laurence Whittam of Impact Global Solutions discusses tapping into global talent pools to boost your firm’s capabilities. From selecting the right offshoring model to building successful remote teams, Laurence shares practical advice for small firms. Discover various offshoring models, practical implementation steps, process efficiencies, strategies for driving client growth and more. Discover how to transform your business with the PCPS Outsourcing Toolkit for CPA Firms. Connect with our guest Laurence Whittam via LinkedIn. This is a podcast from AICPA & CIMA, together as the Association of International Certified Professional Accountants. To enjoy more conversations from our global community of accounting and finance professionals, explore our network of free shows here. Your feedback and comments welcomed at podcast@aicpa-cima.com