The Unique CPA

Laura Crean, Partner Program and Education Manager at FreshBooks, shares her journey from Ireland to leading innovative changes in accounting software. She dives into FreshBooks' exciting transition to a comprehensive general ledger system and the Collaborative Accounting Framework, which enhances collaboration between accountants and business owners. The discussion emphasizes the importance of continuous learning, effective communication, and nurturing firm culture for a fulfilling work environment in the accounting profession.

On this special bonus episode of The Unique CPA, host Rob Brown from The Accounting Influencers Podcasts interviews prominent speakers of the upcoming Bridging the Gap Conference 2024, set to take place from July 22-24 in Rosemont, Illinois. Featured guests include Chad Davis, Roman Villard, Al-Nesha Jones, and Hitendra Patil, who share their backgrounds, insights about the accounting profession, and their excitement for the conference. They discuss their individual sessions, which range from exploring mental health and work-life balance to advanced automation and dealing with the accounting talent shortage. The episode provides useful tips on making the most out of attendance at such events, emphasizing the importance of building genuine connections and approaching the conference with an open mind. The episode concludes by highlighting the unique aspects of the conference and the impact of its organizer, Unique CPA host Randy Crabtree. Get the full show notes and more resources at TheUniqueCPA.com

Dan Luthi, Partner at Ignite Spot Outsourced Accounting joins Randy for Episode 163 of The Unique CPA. They discuss the importance of corporate culture in maintaining a positive work environment, through highlighting Dan's journey at Ignite Spot, his approach to leadership, and how a supportive culture can attract and retain top talent. Dan explores unique strategies for developing a cohesive virtual team, emphasizing the significance of vulnerability and personal connection in leadership, and they both share valuable insights on building a healthy and fulfilling workplace for accounting professionals. Get the full show notes and more resources at TheUniqueCPA.com

Randy Crabtree welcomes Francesca Reicheter, founder and president of Inspiring My Generation, to Episode 162 of The Unique CPA. Francesca shares her personal journey with mental health challenges from a young age, including her experiences with anxiety, depression, and bipolar disorder, and the importance of mental health awareness, strategies to manage mental well-being. Her nonprofit organization aims to prevent suicide through awareness, conversation, education, and support. A poignant and inspiring discussion on overcoming mental health struggles and supporting others in their journey—this is one you don’t want to miss. Get the full show notes and more resources at TheUniqueCPA.com

The Unique CPA returns for Episode 161 with host Randy Crabtree welcoming Dave Olsen, founder and CEO of Nimbl and Nimbl Staffing. Dave delves deep into the essential elements of leadership, culture, and growth that have fueled Nimbl's success, including his transition from a Big Four auditor to a trailblazing business leader, building a thriving remote team across the U.S., Canada, and the Philippines. Dave identifies his evolution from an accounting “technician” to a leader as a key aspect of his growth and success, and highlights the importance of cultivating a strong people experience (PX) and client experience (CX). Nimbl’s innovative strategies ensures the company remains adaptable and resilient, and Dave shares numerous actionable insights on fostering exceptional team culture and achieving sustainable growth. Get the full show notes and more resources at TheUniqueCPA.com

Bridging the Gap Conference 2024 is July 22–24, 2024, is Rosemont, Illinois, and on Episode 160 of The Unique CPA, Randy interviews Andrew Lassise, founder of Tech4Accountants, now a part of Rightworks, a platinum sponsor of the conference. Andrew and Rightworks specialize in cybersecurity and compliance in accounting. With their expertise, they help firms establish WISPs, Written Information Security Plans, aid them in navigating the FTC Safeguards Rule, educate on cybersecurity best practices, and more. WISPs are not optional for almost anyone with a PTIN, so tune in to learn what you need to do to safeguard yourself, and your clients. Get the full show notes and more resources at TheUniqueCPA.com

Host Randy Crabtree welcomes Dawn Goldberg to Episode 159 of The Unique CPA. The author of The Smarter Accountant, Dawn shares her journey in public accounting, working for major firms like Deloitte Touche and Ernst & Young, and explains how understanding our own cognitive processes can lead to a less stressful, more productive tax season—and year-round experience as an accountant. Dawn addresses common pain points for accountants, such as stress, overwhelm, and imposter syndrome, emphasizing the significance of using the higher brain to manage thoughts and improve time management and productivity, aiming for better work-life balance and professional fulfillment. Get the full show notes and more resources at TheUniqueCPA.com

On Episode 138 of The Unique CPA, join host Randy Crabtree as he chats with Timothy Wingate Jr., founder of G+F Business and Financial Consulting, about his journey from wanting to be the next Doogie Howser to creating a niche accounting practice focused on the construction industry. Timothy’s father worked in construction, so his experience runs deep and across generations, so his insights on niching, work-life balance, and effective marketing strategies are sure to be relevant to any accounting firm that is looking to drill down. Get the full show notes and more resources at TheUniqueCPA.com

Geraldine Carter rejoins Randy for a second appearance on The Unique CPA for episode 157. Geraldine recently published her book, Down to 40 Hours, as a more accessible guide to many of the principles she stresses in her coaching: Achieving efficiency and work-life balance through understanding client value, strategic pricing, niching, and more. She discusses navigating business strategies, balancing professional and personal growth, and transforming your understanding of value and where profit actually comes from. Get the full show notes and more resources at TheUniqueCPA.com

Randy Crabtree welcomes Lauren Baptiste to Episode 156 of The Unique CPA. A kindred spirit on the topic of mental health for professionals, Lauren shares her profound journey from CPA burnout to work-life balance. Her actionable insights into recognizing burnout, lifestyle changes, and redefining productivity in the accounting profession could very well make a difference to any listener who is looking to take the first step to changing the direction their career is taking them. Discover strategies for self-care, identifying signs of burnout in yourself and others, and more. Get the full show notes and more resources at TheUniqueCPA.com