Logan Graf, owner of GraffTax and founder of Counter, discusses building a vibrant community in the accounting profession. Inspired by his YouTube channel and financial transparency, he created a welcoming hub for aspiring firm owners. Logan shares insights on overcoming professional barriers, highlighting the importance of confidence in client interactions. He also emphasizes innovative practices and personal engagement, showcasing how vulnerability fosters a supportive environment that enriches career development.

Episode 201 of The Unique CPA kicks off a block of episodes focused on building community in the accounting profession, and to start, Randy talks with Ashley Carroll, founder of Operations House, about addressing burnout while driving firm profitability. Ashley details her mission to help accounting firms rethink their business structures and cultures and think of their employees more as human beings. Ashley recently introduced a “professional pep talk” initiative that provides support and encouragement to accounting professionals, and she discusses her own journey from accounting to operations, her mental health struggles, and her passion for fostering psychologically safe and profitable work environments. Get the full show notes and more resources at TheUniqueCPA.com

We have reached yet another mile episode of The Unique CPA, number 200, and Randy Crabtree joins producer Justin Grant to celebrate the show’s journey. They reflect on the supportive community that has sprung up around the show, the Bridging the Gap Conference, and plans for the future, while having some fun too with a bloopers segment that’s sure to make you laugh along with them. Randy also shares his thoughts on new directions for the podcast, such as becoming a go-to source for specialty tax news and analysis, and the rise of private equity in the accounting profession, before closing things out looking forward to the next hundred episodes. Get the full show notes and more resources at TheUniqueCPA.com

Randy Crabtree is joined by Dave Lane, founder of Grove & Grain Leadership, on Episode 199 of The Unique CPA. As a business executive, leader coach, keynote speaker, and fractional COO, Dave discusses his journey and philosophy around the concept of being a “force of awesome.” He elaborates on the importance of self-awareness, vulnerability, and identifying your true self for both personal fulfillment and professional success. Sharing methodologies and tools he uses, such as the “Listen, Reflect, and Ask” model, Dave seeks to help individuals and teams overcome challenges, improve their emotional intelligence, and foster a more cohesive and effective work environment, with focuses on the impact personal growth can have on business outcomes, and the importance of integrating personal passions with professional duties. Get the full show notes and more resources at TheUniqueCPA.com

Randy welcomes Michael Haynes, go-to-market specialist and Director of Listen Innovate Grow, on Episode 198 of The Unique CPA. Michael explains how accounting firms can transition from transactional to advisory services, focusing on the importance of understanding client needs and conducting internal analysis to create a comprehensive go-to-market strategy. Michael instructs firms to identify their niche, develop the relevant advisory services, and leverage existing expertise for growth, as he stresses the importance of depth of expertise and strategic client engagement, shedding light on various advisory offerings and revenue opportunities. Get the full show notes and more resources at TheUniqueCPA.com

Greg Adams, Senior VP and CFO at the American Management Association and author of 'Green Shade$,' shares his journey and passion for elevating the accounting profession. He highlights the essential role of soft skills, like communication and leadership, in redefining accountants’ public image. Discussions include the exciting and diverse challenges faced by accountants, a fictional narrative spotlighting their problem-solving abilities, and the importance of enhancing education to attract new talent. Relational dynamics and personal passions are also key to achieving success in the field.

Liz Farr, a CPA and freelance writer with a unique background spanning biochemistry and linguistics, shares her journey through accounting. She discusses the transformative shifts in the profession, emphasizing how younger generations are embracing entrepreneurial mindsets and prioritizing work-life balance. Liz reflects on the importance of a strong firm culture and leadership, while also finding joy in personal pursuits like hiking and crafting. Her optimism about the future of accounting shines through, highlighting the evolving landscape of this vital profession.

Randy Crabtree hosts Brian Floriani on a special Episode 195 of The Unique CPA. The founder of Bernie's Book Bank, Brian shares his moving story behind how he founded the organization in memory of his father, with the goal of addressing educational inequity through book ownership. Brian discusses the significant impact of providing books to under-resourced communities and reveals that a small increase in literacy could dramatically boost the economy. He highlights the organization’s achievements in Chicagoland, their expansion plans, and their commitment to efficient and sustainable operations. Get the full show notes and more resources at TheUniqueCPA.com

On Episode 194 of The Unique CPA, Randy Crabtree chats with Kelly Rohrs, founder of her own CPA firm and co-host of the podcast From Zero to Millions: Accounting Edition. Kelly shares her journey from working in a traditional CPA firm to establishing her own practice and the strategies she employed to make it a success, such as leveraging LinkedIn for exposure and building authentic relationships. Kelly has been recognized by CPA Practice Advisor, making their “Top 40 Under 40” list, and she shares her insights on boundary setting, discusses her efforts to help other professionals through her mastermind groups, known as Fiscal Minds, and her podcast, and she emphasizes the importance of openness to innovation, of community, and maintaining work-life balance, as keys to her continuing success. Get the full show notes and more resources at TheUniqueCPA.com

Happy new year to The Unique CPA community! David Hartley joins Randy on Episode 193 to kick off 2025 with a chat about a timely topic: The profession’s future and looking forward to the key things that will drive change within accounting. The Partner in Charge of Advisory at Anders CPAs and Advisors, David hits on the shift towards advisory services, emphasizing innovation and the future readiness of firms. Outlining Anders' proactive approach to strategic planning, compensation transparency, and technology integration, Dave also highlights the mental health and work-life balance initiatives at the firm while delving into the evolving importance of value over billable hours in the accounting industry. Get the full show notes and more resources at TheUniqueCPA.com