

The Unique CPA
Randy Crabtree, CPA
Over more than five years and 200 episodes, The Unique CPA has blossomed from “just an accounting podcast” into a community of thriving accounting professionals. With personal fulfillment and energizing, passionate work at the top of our list of priorities, we’re keeping you at the forefront of the changing face of public accounting through conversations with fascinating leaders who understand that the one constant in the accounting profession is change: Change in our approach to the demands of the profession, change in the technology we use to more efficiently do our jobs, and change in our ability to express who each of us really is as a human being.
Episodes
Mentioned books

Sep 30, 2025 • 34min
Building a Thriving Accounting Alliance
Small firms are facing a new era, and on Episode 231 of The Unique CPA, Randy sits down with Steve Shein, the co-founder of Franklin Alliance, to talk about a new partnership model in the profession. Steve shares his journey from capital markets to building a collaborative network that grants firms access to capital, while they maintain their independence. Franklin Alliance brings with it a vibrant community of strategic advisors and forward-thinking leaders, Randy included. Find out how you can grow your firm on your terms while keeping its identity and autonomy. Get the full show notes and more resources at TheUniqueCPA.com

Sep 23, 2025 • 27min
Keeping Ahead of Your Firm’s Challenges
Forget everything you know about the billable hour. On Episode 230 of The Unique CPA, Randy Crabtree welcomes Chris Vanover, CEO of CPA Club, who’s rewriting the rules of accounting with a subscription-based model and a bold focus on quality management. Learn how Chris and his team work directly with firms to tackle new compliance standards, champion work-life balance, and build a culture where accountants and clients both win. Packed with real-world stories and fresh ideas, Chris’s entrepreneurial journey is a must-listen for anyone ready to rethink what an accounting firm can be. Get the full show notes and more resources at TheUniqueCPA.com

Sep 16, 2025 • 29min
Small Firm, Big Heart: The People Side of Accounting
Randy Crabtree welcomes John Jordan, a small firm owner from Raleigh, North Carolina, and fellow member of the Intuit Tax Council, for Episode 229 of The Unique CPA. John shares his journey from working at large and regional accounting firms to founding his own people-focused practice, where building lasting client relationships is at the heart of his business. Sales-oriented by nature, John enjoys running a small firm and forging very strong personal relationships with his clients, and he talks to Randy about how he still manages to stay in business mode while doing so. He discusses his approach to pricing, technology, and staff management, as well as how important his connections on the Intuit Tax Council and other accounting groups has been both for his mental health and the growth of his firm. Get the full show notes and more resources at TheUniqueCPA.com

Sep 9, 2025 • 37min
“Talk to Me, Not at Me:” Lessons from the Voice of the Chicago Bears
What do accountants and NFL broadcasters have in common? More than you might think. The Unique CPA goes in an entirely different direction on Episode 228 to kick off the football season, with host Randy Crabtree joined by Jeff Joniak, the iconic voice of the Chicago Bears, for a conversation that’s equal parts practical wisdom and behind-the-scenes storytelling. Jeff reflects on his journey to the “toy department of life,” the sports broadcast booth, sharing lessons on preparation, finding your voice, and the art of communicating under pressure. Along the way, Randy and Jeff particularly focus on the effectiveness of storytelling—the value of a well-told tale can’t be understated. Wisdom for accountants can come from the most unexpected places, and you’re sure to find something to take away from this thoughtful and entertaining episode. Get the full show notes and more resources at TheUniqueCPA.com

Sep 2, 2025 • 45min
Beyond Perfection: Practical Content Strategies
Randy welcomes Hank Berkowitz, founder of HB Publishing and Marketing, for an insightful conversation on content, communication, and credibility in the accounting profession on Episode 227 of The Unique CPA. With over 25 years of experience helping CPAs and financial advisors amplify their voices, Hank shares practical strategies for building thought leadership, pitching stories to editors, and turning content into a valuable asset. Discover the difference between influencers and true thought leaders, the power of repurposing content, and why authenticity matters more than perfection. If your goal is to publish your first article, write a book, or simply get your ideas heard, this episode is packed with actionable advice and real-world examples to help accounting professionals stand out and make an impact. Get the full show notes and more resources at TheUniqueCPA.com

Aug 26, 2025 • 36min
From IT to Empowering the Accounting Community
What happens when an IT pro with an entrepreneurial streak transforms a side hustle into a thriving accounting firm? On Episode 226 of The Unique CPA, Tony Proctor, founder and principal of Proctor & Associates, talks to Randy about how he built Proctor & Associates from the ground up, navigated the high-stakes acquisition of a legacy practice, and brought tech-driven innovation to traditional accounting. Discover Tony’s passion for financial literacy, his candid take on firm leadership, and the lessons he’s learned empowering clients and communities. Tony shared his wisdom, humor, and inspiration at Bridging the Gap 2025, and you won’t want to miss this episode whether you were fortunate enough to see him speak there or not. Get the full show notes and more resources at TheUniqueCPA.com

Aug 19, 2025 • 30min
Building a Growth Culture in Your Firm
Episode 225 of The Unique CPA features Amy Franko, the author of the Amazon Bestseller The Modern Seller and a leading expert in sales strategy for professional services. Though covering a broad range of topics, Randy dives deep with Amy into the challenges and opportunities accounting firms face when building a strong sales and growth culture, noting that sales is often an afterthought in the profession, and how this can stunt the growth potential of firms from the very start. They look at the impact of private equity and mergers and how to approach them as a likely long-term fixture in the accounting space. Amy also stresses the importance of energizing your team through skill development and positive firm culture, sharing actionable insights on compensation, training, and leadership, as well as her own journey of staying motivated and evolving in her career. Get the full show notes and more resources at TheUniqueCPA.com

Aug 12, 2025 • 33min
Bridging Journalism and Accounting
Gail Perry, Editor-in-Chief of CPA Practice Advisor Magazine, joins Randy Crabtree on Episode 224 of The Unique CPA. Gail’s fascinating four-decade career began as an aspiring musician, shifted to journalism, and ultimately led her to become a CPA, author of 34 books, and the owner of a small tax practice in Indianapolis. She shares stories of her early influences, her journey through diverse roles—including writing several Dummies and Idiots books—and her passion for teaching and writing in the profession. As Editor-in-Chief, Gail offers a unique perspective on the accounting world, discussing the impact of technology and AI, the evolution of remote work, the rise of advisory services, and how modern accountants must redefine their roles far beyond traditional bookkeeping. Get the full show notes and more resources at TheUniqueCPA.com

Aug 5, 2025 • 38min
The PE Perspective
Randy Crabtree welcomes Alex Drost, Managing Principal of Connection Builders, to discuss the evolving landscape of private equity in the accounting profession on Episode 223 of The Unique CPA. They delve into Alex's background in investment banking and his insights into how private equity is transforming accounting, and they spend time going over the increasing prevalence of PE-backed firms, the implications of private equity on firm culture and partner roles, and strategies for accounting firms to prepare for potential PE investment. Alex also shares his views on the importance of niche specializations and the future impacts of technology and consolidation within the profession. Get the full show notes and more resources at TheUniqueCPA.com

Jul 29, 2025 • 40min
The Double Win: Have It Both Ways
Courtney De Ronde, co-founder and CEO of Forge Financial and Management Consulting, joins Randy for Episode 222 of The Unique CPA. Courtney's groundbreaking approach to the accounting profession, with an emphasis on physical and mental well-being, efficiency, and a healthy work-life balance, takes center stage as she shares her journey from working nights and weekends to implementing practical strategies for better time and energy management. Forge has abolished timesheets and reduced working hours, including all the way down to 40 max during tax season, leading to increased productivity and more fulfilled lives for her team. Courtney’s Simple ScaleUp System, a framework designed to help organizations grow intentionally while aligning finance, structure, and execution, stresses mindset shifts and being intentional about team dynamics. Get the full show notes and more resources at TheUniqueCPA.com