The Unique CPA

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

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

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

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

Randy Crabtree welcomes Nick Boscia, The Balanced CPA, to Episode 221 of The Unique CPA. Perhaps unsurprisingly considering that moniker, Nick, like Randy, is a big advocate of maintaining balance in your work and personal life, and they focus their discussion on using modernization and technology to improve that balance. Nick joined his father’s CPA firm after several years at the Big Four and while he felt very out of control at first, he was able to put major efficiency gainers into place to the point where the firm has both grown to seven employees and he is able to take ten vacations a year. Setting boundaries and both physical and mental health have played a key role in Nick’s professional success, and he talks about how firm owners can make that happen, while also being intentional about ensuring employees understand they are the first priority—even (and especially) above the firm’s clients.  Get the full show notes and more resources at TheUniqueCPA.com

We have a very special Episode 220 of The Unique CPA for our listeners, focused on the massive changes brought about by the newly passed Reconciliation bill. Michael Warady moderates a discussion between Randy Crabtree and Phil Williams, and these Tri-Merit experts provide insights on immediate expensing for R&D, adjusting cost segregation strategy in light of permanent 100% bonus depreciation, the implications of changes in energy tax credits, the phased approach to certain tax provisions, the urgency for businesses to act swiftly to optimize their tax planning strategies, and more. You won’t want to miss this absolutely vital summary of just some of the implications of the massive tax bill and what the immediate next steps are for both client and firm alike. Get the full show notes and more resources at TheUniqueCPA.com

We’re looking forward to Bridging the Gap 2025 at The Unique CPA, and on Episode 219, Randy sits down with Denise Thomas, founder of the Effective Communication Coach, about her journey into effective communication and leadership. With over two decades of experience working with Fortune 500 companies and educational institutions, Denise shares insights on the importance of effective communication in transforming professionals into extraordinary leaders, and previews her BtG keynote, “Leading from Within: Embracing Your Best Self with Authentic Mind and Powerful Leadership.” From personal leadership growth and embracing vulnerability, to fostering innovation within organizations, you definitely want to catch Denise’s insights into leadership and making communication work for you and your organization. Get the full show notes and more resources at TheUniqueCPA.com

On Episode 218 of The Unique CPA, Randy Crabtree concludes the ongoing CAS block by welcoming Jeremy Estey, founder of AmberSky Marketing. They diverge from the pure CAS discussions of the first two episodes of the block, turning their focus to digital marketing for accounting firms, with an emphasis on niche marketing and SEO. Jeremy has built his digital marketing expertise first through founding a golf news website, then explicitly moving into marketing, and he discusses how he now helps accounting firms transition from traditional services to high-value advisory roles while making sure their marketing provides them with the leads they need to generate substantial revenue. He educates Randy on optimizing website content, the significance of local SEO, strategies for productizing services to enhance scalability and profitability, and the importance of attracting the right clients through targeted digital marketing. Get the full show notes and more resources at TheUniqueCPA.com  

Kane Polakoff, Client Advisory Services Practice Leader at CohnReznick, brings nearly 30 years of expertise in building CAS practices. He discusses the evolution of Client Advisory Services, emphasizing technology, global expansion, and the hiring of adaptable personnel. Kane passionately advocates for a supportive workplace culture and mental health awareness within accounting, stressing their critical role in practice success. The conversation highlights the collaborative nature of the profession, encouraging professionals to seek help and foster strong community ties.

Christine Triantos, a seasoned trailblazer in Client Accounting Services with over 30 years of experience, shares her expertise in evolving CAS from traditional bookkeeping to proactive consulting. She emphasizes the vital role of technology in enhancing service delivery and discusses innovative pricing strategies, including the shift towards fixed fees. Christine also highlights the importance of effective communication with clients and maintaining work-life balance, alongside personal anecdotes about the joy of community and outdoor activities.