Accounting Influencers Podcast

Grads aren’t ready for the world of work. Schools aren’t helping. And accounting firms are paying the price.In this solo episode, Rob Brown breaks down the skills crisis facing employers, especially accounting firms. Why are so many graduates, interns and junior hires entering the workforce unprepared? What’s going wrong in the education system? And what can firm leaders do about it?Rob explores the mismatch between academic learning and real-world performance, and lays out concrete strategies for firms to build better talent pipelines from the inside out.Whether you're hiring your next intern or building your future partner team, this episode will make you rethink your assumptions and give you tools to build real talent.Key Takeaways: -Only 11% of leaders think grads are ready for work-Soft skills matter more than technical knowledge at junior levels-Schools prioritise exams, not workplace performance-Career guidance in schools is outdated and ineffective-Firms must stop assuming education will develop soft skills-Better onboarding, mentoring, and training is criticalThe Accounting Influencers Podcast, hosted by Rob Brown, is one of the world's leading shows for accounting leaders, professionals, finance specialists, software vendors, tech providers and influencers. Thanks to our sponsors:ADVANCETRACK OUTSOURCING. Transform your accounting firm with AdvanceTrack. Our top-tier offshoring solutions free your team from mundane tasks, allowing you to focus on growth and client engagement. Experience seamless scalability and expert support. Visit advancetrack.com and elevate your practice today. https://www.advancetrack.comACCOUNTEX. Bringing the accounting world together with UK and international events for the accounting and tech world. https://www.accountex.co.ukIf you'd like to sponsor the show and elevate your brand with our audience, reach out to show host Rob Brown on LinkedIn and his team will reach out to fix up a chat to explore. https://www.linkedin.com/in/therobbrownYou can also check out all shows on the Accounting Influencers YouTube Channel:https://bit.ly/AI-youtube

Gen Z has entered the accounting profession — and they’re calling time on toxic leadership. In this episode, Rob Brown outlines the five most damaging behaviours driving young talent away from firms. From micromanagement to presenteeism, he explains why these outdated habits are no longer tolerated, and what leaders must do to retain the future of the profession.Key Takeaways:-Toxic behaviours are a firm’s biggest risk-Gen Z won’t wait around for change — they’ll leave-Culture must prioritise trust, feedback and transparency-Partners need leadership training, not just technical skillsThe Accounting Influencers Podcast, hosted by Rob Brown, is one of the world's leading shows for accounting leaders, professionals, finance specialists, software vendors, tech providers and influencers. Thanks to our sponsors:ADVANCETRACK OUTSOURCING. Transform your accounting firm with AdvanceTrack. Our top-tier offshoring solutions free your team from mundane tasks, allowing you to focus on growth and client engagement. Experience seamless scalability and expert support. Visit advancetrack.com and elevate your practice today. https://www.advancetrack.comACCOUNTEX. Bringing the accounting world together with UK and international events for the accounting and tech world. https://www.accountex.co.ukIf you'd like to sponsor the show and elevate your brand with our audience, reach out to show host Rob Brown on LinkedIn and his team will reach out to fix up a chat to explore. https://www.linkedin.com/in/therobbrownYou can also check out all shows on the Accounting Influencers YouTube Channel:https://bit.ly/AI-youtube

In this episode, Rob Brown discusses the impact of AI on the accounting profession, emphasizing the necessity for accounting professionals to embrace AI literacy and adapt to the evolving landscape. He highlights the importance of focusing on the human aspects of accounting that AI cannot replicate, such as emotional intelligence and complex problem-solving. The conversation also covers actionable strategies for accountants to remain relevant and valuable in a world increasingly influenced by AI.Key Takeaways:-AI literacy is now crucial for accounting professionals.-Automation is taking over routine accounting tasks rapidly.-Messy, unpredictable tasks in accounting are less at risk from AI.-Accountants need to evolve into strategic advisors.-Significant layoffs and restructuring in accounting are driven by AI and private equity.-Collaboration and complexity in work protect jobs from automation.-Leaders must embed AI deeply into strategic decision-making.Thanks to our sponsors:ADVANCETRACK OUTSOURCING. Transform your accounting firm with AdvanceTrack. Our top-tier offshoring solutions free your team from mundane tasks, allowing you to focus on growth and client engagement. Experience seamless scalability and expert support. Visit advancetrack.com and elevate your practice today. https://www.advancetrack.comACCOUNTEX. Bringing the accounting world together with UK and international events for the accounting and tech world. https://www.accountex.co.ukIf you'd like to sponsor the show and elevate your brand with our audience, reach out to show host Rob Brown on LinkedIn and his team will reach out to fix up a chat to explore. https://www.linkedin.com/in/therobbrownYou can also check out all shows on the Accounting Influencers YouTube Channel:https://bit.ly/AI-youtube

In this episode of the Accounting Influencer podcast, Rob Brown discusses the dual nature of artificial intelligence in accounting, emphasizing its potential to enhance content creation and personal branding while cautioning against losing authenticity. He advocates for leveraging AI as a tool to amplify one's voice and ideas rather than allowing it to replace them. The conversation highlights the importance of being visible and vocal in the accounting profession, using content to build authority and trust, and the need for professionals to maintain their unique perspectives in a landscape increasingly influenced by AI.Takeaways-Artificial intelligence is both a threat and an opportunity for accounting.-Being an ambassador for your brand is crucial in leadership roles.-Content creation is essential for visibility and authority.-AI can simplify content creation but lacks authenticity.-Authenticity is key to building trust and influence.-Content should reflect personal experiences and insights.-AI can help generate ideas but should not replace personal voice.-Professionals must differentiate themselves in a crowded market.-Playing it safe with content can lead to loss of visibility.-Building a personal brand requires sharing unique stories and insights.The Accounting Influencers Podcast, hosted by Rob Brown, is one of the world's leading shows for accounting leaders, professionals, finance specialists, software vendors, tech providers and influencers. Thanks to our sponsors:ADVANCETRACK OUTSOURCING. Transform your accounting firm with AdvanceTrack. Our top-tier offshoring solutions free your team from mundane tasks, allowing you to focus on growth and client engagement. Experience seamless scalability and expert support. Visit advancetrack.com and elevate your practice today. https://www.advancetrack.comACCOUNTEX. Bringing the accounting world together with UK and international events for the accounting and tech world. https://www.accountex.co.ukIf you'd like to sponsor the show and elevate your brand with our audience, reach out to show host Rob Brown on LinkedIn and his team will reach out to fix up a chat to explore. https://www.linkedin.com/in/therobbrownYou can also check out all shows on the Accounting Influencers YouTube Channel:https://bit.ly/AI-youtube

In this episode, Rob Brown discusses the complexities of job switching in the accounting profession, exploring the motivations behind leaving a job and the factors that contribute to job satisfaction. He highlights the importance of evaluating both red flags that may indicate it's time to move and green flags that suggest staying put. The concept of a 'forever firm' is introduced, emphasizing the significance of a supportive workplace culture and career growth opportunities. Ultimately, listeners are encouraged to reflect on their career priorities and make informed decisions about their professional paths.Takeaways:-Job switching can lead to better lifestyle and career growth.-Financial incentives for job switching have decreased recently.-Quality of life is becoming more important than salary.-Red flags for leaving include lack of growth and toxic environments.-Green flags for staying include a positive culture and investment in growth.-Flexibility in the workplace is now a critical expectation.-A 'forever firm' offers a supportive and growth-oriented environment.-Evaluate your motivations for wanting to switch jobs.-Temporary discomfort shouldn't drive your decision to leave.-Long-term fulfillment often outweighs short-term financial gains.The Accounting Influencers Podcast, hosted by Rob Brown, is one of the world's leading shows for accounting leaders, professionals, finance specialists, software vendors, tech providers and influencers. Thanks to our sponsors:ADVANCETRACK OUTSOURCING. Transform your accounting firm with AdvanceTrack. Our top-tier offshoring solutions free your team from mundane tasks, allowing you to focus on growth and client engagement. Experience seamless scalability and expert support. Visit advancetrack.com and elevate your practice today. https://www.advancetrack.comACCOUNTEX. Bringing the accounting world together with UK and international events for the accounting and tech world. https://www.accountex.co.ukIf you'd like to sponsor the show and elevate your brand with our audience, reach out to show host Rob Brown on LinkedIn and his team will reach out to fix up a chat to explore. https://www.linkedin.com/in/therobbrownYou can also check out all shows on the Accounting Influencers YouTube Channel:https://bit.ly/AI-youtube

In this episode of the Accounting Influencers Podcast, host Rob Brown speaks with Gale Crosley, one of the world's foremost strategic growth advisors to accounting firms. Together they explore why many CPA firms struggle with sustainable growth, the rise of private equity in the profession, and how firms can position themselves for long-term success.Key Takeaways-Strategic growth means sustainable, profitable, and efficient growth—not luck or market dependency.-Many accounting firms rely on opportunistic growth instead of a strategic plan.-Private equity is accelerating the adoption of C-suite roles in accounting firms.-Firms without a clear growth framework risk irrelevance or acquisition.-Chief Growth Officers (CGOs) are becoming vital for future-proofing firms.-Leadership alignment around growth strategies is crucial.-Entrepreneurial and intrapreneurial mindsets are game changers for CPA firms.The Accounting Influencers Podcast (AIP) is aimed at accounting firm leaders, managers and partners looking to build their executive presence, influence and credibility both internally and externally. The show focuses on helping professionals strengthen their personal brand, stay informed about industry changes, and navigate disruptive forces affecting accounting business models and trends. The content includes solo insights from host Rob Brown as well as interviews or panel discussions with industry leaders. Check out the show on your preferred podcast app or platform, or go to the Accounting Influencers YouTube channel for all of the episodes in video format. To find out more, contact host Rob Brown on LinkedIn https://www.linkedin.com/in/therobbrownThe Accounting Influencers Podcast, hosted by Rob Brown, is one of the world's leading shows for accounting leaders, professionals, finance specialists, software vendors, tech providers and influencers. Thanks to our sponsors:ADVANCETRACK OUTSOURCING. Transform your accounting firm with AdvanceTrack. Our top-tier offshoring solutions free your team from mundane tasks, allowing you to focus on growth and client engagement. Experience seamless scalability and expert support. Visit advancetrack.com and elevate your practice today. https://www.advancetrack.comACCOUNTEX. Bringing the accounting world together with UK and international events for the accounting and tech world. https://www.accountex.co.ukIf you'd like to sponsor the show and elevate your brand with our audience, reach out to show host Rob Brown on LinkedIn and his team will reach out to fix up a chat to explore. https://www.linkedin.com/in/therobbrownYou can also check out all shows on the Accounting Influencers YouTube Channel:https://bit.ly/AI-youtube

In this episode of the Accounting Influencers podcast, Rob Brown engages with industry experts Will Yap, Denise M. Meyer, and Robert Prusa to explore the significance of events in the accounting profession. They discuss the value of attending events, the importance of building relationships, and what makes a good event. The conversation also delves into how accountants choose which events to attend, the ROI considerations, and the evolving trends in event planning. The episode culminates in insights about the upcoming Right Now 2025 event, emphasizing community and professional growth.Key Takeaways:-Attending events is crucial for professional development.-Networking is a key reason for attending events.-A thriving community enhances the event experience.-Location plays a significant role in event selection.-ROI is measured by the value gained from the event.-Personalization in events is becoming increasingly important.-Engagement opportunities are essential for attendees.-The Right Now 2025 event focuses on community and collaboration.-Transitioning back to work after events is critical for implementing learnings.-CPE should be viewed as a bonus, not the main goal.-You can register for the right now event here:https://events.rightworks.com/WdoGRL?utm_source=robbrown&utm_campaign=rightnow2025&utm_medium=podcast&utm_content=willrobertdeniseThanks to our sponsors:ADVANCETRACK OUTSOURCING. Transform your accounting firm with AdvanceTrack. Our top-tier offshoring solutions free your team from mundane tasks, allowing you to focus on growth and client engagement. Experience seamless scalability and expert support. Visit advancetrack.com and elevate your practice today. https://www.advancetrack.comACCOUNTEX. Bringing the accounting world together with UK and international events for the accounting and tech world. https://www.accountex.co.ukIf you'd like to sponsor the show and elevate your brand with our audience, reach out to show host Rob Brown on LinkedIn and his team will reach out to fix up a chat to explore. https://www.linkedin.com/in/therobbrownYou can also check out all shows on the Accounting Influencers YouTube Channel:https://bit.ly/AI-youtubeWatch the show with graphics and slides on youtube here: https://youtu.be/vm6TIuAMl8wThe Accounting Influencers Podcast, hosted by Rob Brown, is one of the world's leading shows for accounting leaders, professionals, finance specialists, software vendors, tech providers and influencers.

In this conversation, Rob Brown and Eric Gregg discuss the importance of understanding client needs in the accounting industry, emphasizing the significance of specialization, effective online presence, and the role of technology in enhancing client relationships. They explore the concept of the 'Day One Accounting Firm,' which highlights how firms can position themselves to be top of mind for potential clients. The discussion also covers pricing strategies, the importance of onboarding, and how firms can differentiate themselves through client experience and thought leadership.Key Takeaways:-Accountants often lack insight into what clients truly want.-Specialization is key to being on a client's day one list.-A strong online presence is crucial for attracting clients.-Differentiation in client experience is essential for success.-Value perception can significantly impact client relationships.-Effective communication can enhance client satisfaction and referability.-Cultural differences can influence client expectations and perceptions.-Technology, including AI, plays a vital role in client interactions.-Thought leadership can build trust and authority in the market.-Onboarding processes are critical for establishing strong client relationships.Watch the show with graphics and slides on youtube here: https://youtu.be/7wBDDOtPCngThe Accounting Influencers Podcast, hosted by Rob Brown, is one of the world's leading shows for accounting leaders, professionals, finance specialists, software vendors, tech providers and influencers. Thanks to our sponsors:ADVANCETRACK OUTSOURCING. Transform your accounting firm with AdvanceTrack. Our top-tier offshoring solutions free your team from mundane tasks, allowing you to focus on growth and client engagement. Experience seamless scalability and expert support. Visit advancetrack.com and elevate your practice today. https://www.advancetrack.comACCOUNTEX. Bringing the accounting world together with UK and international events for the accounting and tech world. https://www.accountex.co.ukIf you'd like to sponsor the show and elevate your brand with our audience, reach out to show host Rob Brown on LinkedIn and his team will reach out to fix up a chat to explore. https://www.linkedin.com/in/therobbrownYou can also check out all shows on the Accounting Influencers YouTube Channel:https://bit.ly/AI-youtube

Are corporate layoffs and strict return-to-office mandates causing a talent crisis in accounting? Host Rob Brown explores how major changes at large firms like PwC, Deloitte, and KPMG are reshaping the landscape and what smaller accounting firms can do to capitalize on these shifts. Discover why leaders at all levels must rethink their strategies to attract and retain top talent.Key Takeaways:-Transparency during layoffs builds trust.-Strict RTO mandates can negatively impact morale.-Smaller firms can attract talent leaving large firms.-Flexibility remains crucial for employee retention.-Clear, empathetic leadership boosts engagement.-Proactively managing your employer brand is vital.-Collaborative policy-making enhances team buy-in.The Accounting Influencers Podcast (AIP) is aimed at accounting firm leaders, managers, and partners looking to build their executive presence, influence, and credibility both internally and externally. The show focuses on helping professionals strengthen their personal brand, stay informed about industry changes, and navigate disruptive forces affecting accounting business models and trends. The content includes solo insights from host Rob Brown as well as interviews or panel discussions with industry leaders. Check out the show on your preferred podcast app or platform, or go to the Accounting Influencers YouTube channel for all of the episodes in video format. To find out more, contact host Rob Brown on LinkedIn https://www.linkedin.com/in/therobbrownThanks to our sponsors:ADVANCETRACK OUTSOURCING. Transform your accounting firm with AdvanceTrack. Our top-tier offshoring solutions free your team from mundane tasks, allowing you to focus on growth and client engagement. Experience seamless scalability and expert support. Visit advancetrack.com and elevate your practice today. https://www.advancetrack.comIf you'd like to sponsor the show and elevate your brand with our audience, reach out to show host Rob Brown on LinkedIn and his team will reach out to fix up a chat to explore. https://www.linkedin.com/in/therobbrownYou can also check out all shows on the Accounting Influencers YouTube Channel:https://bit.ly/AI-youtube

Why Are Accounting Firms Quietly Dropping DEI?Accounting firms are making drastic changes to their DEI programs, and not in the way you might think. KPMG has officially ended its "Accelerate 2025" program, following similar moves from Deloitte and others. Meanwhile, governing bodies like AICPA, CIMA, and ACCA are doubling down on DEI’s importance. So, what’s really happening? In this episode, Rob Brown breaks down:Key Takeaways:✅ Why KPMG, Deloitte, and others are scaling back DEI✅ The legal and political forces driving this shift✅ How these changes impact recruitment and retention✅ What firms risk by pulling back on DEI initiatives✅ The burnout crisis hitting DEI professionals in firms✅ What governing bodies like AICPA & ACCA say about DEI✅ How accounting leaders should navigate this challengeKiller Quotes:💬 "Accounting firms are ditching DEI – is it a smart move or a disaster?"💬 "Less than half of firms are even tracking DEI progress."💬 "DEI officers burn out fast—most last just 3 years!"💬 "The next generation of accountants cares about DEI—ignore it at your own risk."💬 "If firms aren’t diverse, how will they attract diverse clients and talent?"💬 "The legal landscape is shifting—but is pulling back the answer?"💬 "Talent is already scarce. Does ignoring DEI make firms even less attractive?"You can check out the video version of this with visuals and graphics here on YouTube:https://youtu.be/ZMdh01NB_C0The Accounting Influencers Podcast, hosted by Rob Brown, is one of the world's leading shows for accounting leaders, professionals, finance specialists, software vendors, tech providers and influencers. Thanks to our sponsors:ADVANCETRACK OUTSOURCING. Transform your accounting firm with AdvanceTrack. Our top-tier offshoring solutions free your team from mundane tasks, allowing you to focus on growth and client engagement. Experience seamless scalability and expert support. Visit advancetrack.com and elevate your practice today. https://www.advancetrack.comIf you'd like to sponsor the show and elevate your brand with our audience, reach out to show host Rob Brown on LinkedIn and his team will reach out to fix up a chat to explore. https://www.linkedin.com/in/therobbrownYou can also check out all shows on the Accounting Influencers YouTube Channel:https://bit.ly/AI-youtube