Jason On Firms Podcast

In this discussion, Danny Alberson, a former accountant and founder of Agentive, delves into the transformative power of AI in the auditing field. He highlights how their platform automates evidence requests and testing as soon as clients upload documents, allowing auditors to focus on more critical tasks. Danny also shares insights on turning down acquisition offers to remain mission-driven, the evolving role of junior auditors in managing AI, and the importance of avoiding long-term software contracts. This episode is filled with fresh perspectives on the future of audits!

Discover why email can be a productivity sinkhole in accounting firms. Learn about the importance of delegating routine tasks to free up valuable time. Explore tech tools that enhance team communication beyond traditional options. Jason outlines a three-step plan to escape the inbox, emphasizing the need for team ownership over email responsibilities. He shares practical rules to manage emails effectively and tackles the fears associated with letting go of control. Ready to reclaim your focus and boost your firm’s efficiency?

Dive into the world of offshoring and its impact on small accounting firms. Explore the rapid rise of offshoring post-COVID and the tension it creates for firms facing labor displacement. Discover how offshore teams might outperform local hires and how managing both onshore and offshore staff can enhance growth prospects. Unpack the role of expertise and human connection in an increasingly automated landscape, and find out why specializing and building relationships are key to staying relevant amidst technological advances.

Clients often demand top-tier service while opting for low-cost packages. Learn how better scoping of work can help set clear expectations around access and response times. Discover the benefit of providing tiered service deliveries that don’t compromise quality. Jason emphasizes the profitability of selling higher levels of service rather than just more work, enabling firms to serve fewer clients more effectively. This approach helps balance workloads and reclaim valuable time.

Discover the art of delegation to transform the way you run your firm. Learn how to redesign daily tasks to match your leadership identity and elevate your team's roles. Explore practical strategies for streamlining tax processes and month-end tasks, enabling your admins to handle significant workloads. Find out how to manage emails effectively by delegating inbox responsibilities, and rethink client communication for better engagement. Plus, dive into essential year-end planning to align tasks with your aspirations for the next year.

Discover how NotebookLM is transforming communications for accounting firms. Learn about the latest AI tools like audio overviews and infographics that enhance client interactions without losing the personal touch. Explore the practical applications of slide decks and mind maps in finance discussions. Jason dives into how AI can help analyze financial performance and clarify results, including addressing common operational challenges. Tune in for innovative ways to streamline workflows and leverage AI-driven resources for client engagement!

Ben, the CEO of Blue Jay and a law professor, dives into the transformative effects of AI on accounting. He emphasizes that firms should prioritize learning from peers over vendor demos to maximize AI’s potential. The conversation highlights how AI can empower both junior and senior staff, enhancing knowledge and review capabilities. Ben stresses that while AI tools are invaluable, human experience remains irreplaceable. Looking ahead, firms adopting AI now will dominate the landscape by 2026, making firm-wide AI proficiency essential.

Firm owners can turbocharge their client lists through community-driven referrals and strategic specialization. Discover how attending local live events fosters trust and sparks collaboration among like-minded professionals. Learn the importance of clear communication about desired clients and services, which opens up new opportunities. High-context conversations build stronger relationships, while asking peers about their needs enhances reciprocal referrals. Join upcoming workshops to refine your approach and connect with others in your field!

Discover the 10 commandments for running a thriving accounting firm. Learn the importance of responsive client communication and the need to let go of clients who hinder your growth. Prioritize profitability over reckless expansion while you build a self-sufficient team. Hiring smarter and empowering your staff to delegate are key tactics. Embrace niche visibility to attract ideal clients and implement effective marketing through service. Plus, Jason highlights the importance of enjoying the journey and building resilience in entrepreneurship.

Discover how GPT-5.1 is revolutionizing accounting firms with its improved conversational style and instruction following. Learn why mastering AI tools can enhance workflows and reduce errors. Jason emphasizes the need for firms to adopt AI habits, sharing practical tips like keeping AI tools visible and establishing regular practices. He also argues that specialization, not just skill accumulation, is essential for staying relevant in an AI-driven world. Finally, explore future scenarios where humans leverage AI for unique advantages.