“I want to make sure that whatever we create, it's not only conducive for my lifestyle but for my entire team.” – Jody Grunden The finer details of this episode:Transformation of the accounting professionChanging perceptions within the accounting industryImportance of personal relationships and communication in professional successExperiences and challenges faced in public accounting and corporate rolesEntrepreneurial journey and founding of Summit CPA GroupEmphasis on work-life balance and flexible work environmentsAdoption of remote work and its impact on company cultureNeed for adaptability and innovation in accounting practicesRole of soft skills and interpersonal relationships in future accounting careersEncouragement for young professionals to embrace change and seek personal development opportunities Episode resources:Summit Virtual CFO by Anders website: https://www.summitcpa.net/Email us with questions or if you’d like to be a guest on the show: youngcpasuccessshow@anderscpa.comWe’re hiring! Check out our open positions: https://www.summitcpa.net/career-opportunitiesConnect with Jody here: https://www.linkedin.com/in/jodygrunden/Check out Summit Virtual CFO by Anders here: https://www.summitcpa.net/ Timestamps:Welcome to the Young CPA Success Show (00:00:00)Introduction to the podcast aimed at guiding young accounting professionals in their careers. Changing Perceptions in Accounting (00:00:23)Discussion about the importance of altering how the world perceives accounting. Jody's Journey in Accounting (00:01:23)Jody shares his background, from studying finance to discovering his passion for accounting. Experiences in Public Accounting (00:02:35)Jody recounts his challenging experiences in public accounting and the toll it took on him. Transition to Corporate World (00:04:09)Jody describes his shift from public accounting to corporate roles and initial enjoyment. Starting an Entrepreneurial Journey (00:05:38)Jody discusses leaving corporate life to run a small CPA firm and its challenges. Creating Summit CFO (00:07:14)Jody details the founding of Summit CFO, focusing on innovative practices and culture. Changing the Way Accounting Works (00:08:42)Jody emphasizes his goal to transform accounting practices for better work-life balance. Pioneering New Accounting Practices (00:10:14)Recognition of Jody as a pioneer in innovative accounting practices and culture. Overcoming Obstacles in Accounting (00:12:01)Discussion on turning challenges into opportunities and embracing change in the industry. Building Team Culture (00:14:00)The importance of intentional team culture and communication in remote work environments. Risk and Change in Accounting (00:15:02)Challenges accountants face with risk and change, and the need for adaptable team members. Here are the extracted timestamps and their corresponding titles from the podcast episode transcription segment: Going Remote: The Decision (00:15:42)Discussion on the decision to go fully remote and initial reactions from the team. Stand-Up Meetings and Culture (00:16:36)Overview of stand-up meetings, starting with jokes, and fostering a collaborative culture. Initial Resistance to Remote Work (00:17:14)Team members express concerns about remote work; only one person agrees to the idea. Office Renovation and Investment (00:18:32)Details about the office renovation and the unexpected shift towards remote work. Lessons from the Transition (00:19:17)Reflections on the financial implications of the office renovation amidst the remote transition. Adapting to Remote Work (00:20:03)Gradual acceptance of remote work by team members and the eventual leasing of the office. Listening vs. Acting (00:21:02)Speaker discusses the importance of listening to feedback without feeling obligated to act on it. The Entrepreneurial Spirit (00:22:16)Exploration of the entrepreneurial mindset within the company and its impact on employee roles. Compensation Structure and Flexibility (00:23:50)Explanation of the compensation model that supports both ambition and security for employees. Importance of Diverse Roles (00:27:06)The necessity of having both ambitious and content employees for company success. Evaluating Potential Hires (00:28:20)Criteria for assessing candidates, including sports and teamwork experience beyond academics. Remote Work Dynamics (00:29:46)Discussion on the effectiveness of remote work and maintaining engagement through video calls. Remote Work Presentation Tips (00:31:12)Importance of professional camera presence and background during virtual interviews. Creating Work-Life Boundaries (00:32:03)Discussion on the necessity of having a designated workspace to separate work from personal life. Flexibility in Remote Work (00:32:50)Benefits of remote work include flexibility for personal emergencies and family commitments. Task-Oriented vs. Hours-Driven Work (00:34:23)Emphasis on productivity based on task completion rather than hours worked. Balancing Career and Family (00:35:18)Personal experiences of balancing a career in accounting with family responsibilities. Company Culture and Flexibility (00:36:11)Summit CFO’s supportive environment allows employees to prioritize family alongside work. Personal Health Journey (00:37:15)Speaker shares health improvements and lifestyle changes since joining Summit CFO. Work-Life Integration (00:38:49)Discussion on the shift from work-life balance to work-life integration for better fulfillment. Vision for Accounting's Future (00:40:12)Changing perceptions about accounting for clients and the industry, aiming for innovation. AI's Impact on Accounting (00:45:58)Predictions on how AI will transform traditional accounting roles and emphasize advisory services. Importance of Soft Skills (00:47:40)Highlighting the growing need for soft skills in accounting to build client relationships. The Importance of Client Relationships (00:48:24)Discusses a challenging client onboarding experience emphasizing the value of personal relationships in client retention. The Power of Communication (00:48:38)Highlights the necessity of communication skills for success in any profession, including accounting. Curiosity in the Workplace (00:49:47)Encourages questioning established practices to foster innovation and improve job performance. The Cake Story Analogy (00:50:26)Shares a humorous story illustrating the importance of understanding the reasons behind actions and practices. Innovating Through Inquiry (00:51:14)Explains how being curious and asking "why" can lead to better processes and innovation in the workplace. Wrapping Up the Podcast (00:51:29)Concludes the episode, expressing gratitude and excitement for future connections and opportunities. Connecting with Jody (00:52:10)Provides information on how listeners can connect with Jody and learn more about his work. Invitation for Young CPAs (00:52:57)Encourages young CPAs to explore career development opportunities with Summit CFO and Anders CPAs.

“Everyone in the accounting industry talks the lingo, the foreign language of accounting. We know what we're talking about. But, for our clients, most of them don’t. It’s our job to help them understand by translating our technical jargon into something simpler.” – Peter Margaritis, CSP, CPA The finer details of this episode:Importance of communication and storytelling skills for accountantsTranslating technical accounting language into plain English for clientsUnderstanding and connecting with clients on a personal levelEfforts at Oklahoma State University to incorporate communication and client service skills into the accounting curriculumDeveloping communication skills in the classroomTailoring communication to different personality types and communication styles in client interactionsSignificance of non-verbal communication, particularly in virtual environmentsSoft skills and power skills for young accountantsPrinciples of improvisation and its relevance to client interactions and teamworkBalancing future-oriented thinking with present-focused awareness Episode resources:Summit Virtual CFO by Anders website: https://www.summitcpa.net/Email us with questions or if you’d like to be a guest on the show: youngcpasuccessshow@anderscpa.comWe’re hiring! Check out our open positions: https://www.summitcpa.net/career-opportunitiesConnect with Peter here: https://www.linkedin.com/in/petermargaritis/Check out The Accidental Accountant here: https://petermargaritis.com/ Timestamps:The importance of communication and translation (00:00:22)Discussion on the vital role of accountants in translating technical language for business owners and the need for young accountants to develop communication skills. Incorporating communication skills in accounting education (00:01:13)The efforts at Oklahoma State University to include professional development workshops in the accounting curriculum to prepare students for effective communication. Translating technical language into plain English (00:02:33)A real-life example illustrating the consequences of failing to communicate technical accounting language to a business owner and the need for accountants to bridge this gap. Challenges in learning storytelling skills (00:04:35)The difficulties young accountants face in learning storytelling skills and the importance of understanding and connecting with clients on a personal level. Starting to learn storytelling skills (00:05:57)The suggestion to practice explaining accounting tasks to friends and family in simpler terms as a starting point for developing storytelling skills. Tailoring the message to the audience (00:07:41)The necessity for accountants to tailor their message to the audience, along with strategies for understanding the language of the person being communicated with. Resistance to incorporating communication in accounting education (00:10:54)Discussion on the resistance and challenges faced in integrating communication skills into accounting education at the university level. Changing perceptions of accounting through storytelling (00:13:54)The potential impact of changing the way accountants communicate about their profession to high school students to attract more individuals to the accounting field. Impact of storytelling in changing perceptions about accounting (00:15:18)How storytelling and sharing personal experiences in accounting can change students' perceptions about the profession and attract them to consider accounting as a career. Building rapport with clients through language understanding (00:17:54)The importance of understanding the language and buzzwords of different industries to build rapport with clients and connect with them on a deeper level. Connecting with clients through personal stories (00:19:29)The significance of finding a connection with clients through personal stories and interests, and the impact it has on building relationships. The connection and trust-building in client relationships (00:20:07)Importance of genuine connection for developing trust with clients, leading to better understanding and communication. Understanding and adapting to different client personalities (00:20:59)Discussion on using the DISC personality assessment to understand and adapt to different client personalities for effective communication. Importance of body language in virtual communication (00:26:20)Emphasizing the significance of turning on the camera in virtual meetings to convey engagement and avoid misinterpretations. Flexibility and teamwork in communication (00:28:25)Recognizing the value of complementary skill sets and adaptability in teamwork and communication. The impact of attitude and improvisation in daily interactions (00:33:47)Highlighting the significance of maintaining a positive attitude and being present in daily interactions, drawing parallels with improvisation techniques. The art of consulting and understanding client needs (00:37:21)Drawing parallels between improv skills and consulting, emphasizing the importance of understanding and adapting to client needs. Intentional focus on present space and personal growth (00:38:13)Recognizing the need for intentional focus on living in the present and improving current circumstances for personal growth. The importance of preparation (00:39:19)Discussion on the significance of overpreparing and then improvising in presentations and speeches. The power of storytelling (00:40:15)Exploration of Martin Luther King's improvisation during the "I have a dream" speech and the impact of storytelling on evoking emotions. The art of public speaking (00:42:13)The importance of overpreparation for public speaking and the ability to pivot and connect with the audience. The impact of storytelling (00:43:15)The value of storytelling in aligning emotions with data and making a lasting impression on clients. The art of storytelling (00:44:30)Discussion on the art of storytelling, including the need for stories to be true and emotional rather than just factual. The role of emotions in decision-making (00:45:16)The influence of emotions on decision-making and the importance of aligning emotions with data in client interactions. Personal interests and hobbies (00:46:33)Insight into the personal life and hobbies of Peter, including writing, biking, and stand-up comedy. Connecting with the audience (00:50:15)Peter's contact information and a light-hearted exchange about connecting with him outside the show.

“We want to have conversations that are meaningful, that are impactful, and I can guarantee you that we are walking away from these conversations trying to implement these in our organization and our community.” – Ayo Owodunni The finer details of this episode:Importance of inclusive leadership and challenges in embracing diversity, equity, and inclusion (DEI) initiativesBusiness case for DEI and its positive impact on profitability and revenue in companiesBuilding trust and connection with diverse team membersAddressing privilege and mindset shift in viewing people as assetsLeveraging different perspectives to drive innovation and successImportance of fostering inclusive leadership and embracing diversityBuilding trust and rapport in coachingValue of emotional intelligence in coaching and leadershipT-GROW model for coaching conversationsT-GROW model for setting and achieving goals Episode resources:Summit Virtual CFO by Anders website: https://www.summitcpa.net/Email us with questions or if you’d like to be a guest on the show: youngcpasuccessshow@anderscpa.comWe’re hiring! Check out our open positions: https://www.summitcpa.net/career-opportunitiesConnect with Ayo here: https://www.linkedin.com/in/ayoowodunni/Check out Ayo here: www.ayoowo.com Timestamps:Introduction (00:00:00)Introducing the podcast and its purpose.Importance of Inclusive Leadership (00:00:23)Discussion about the importance of inclusive leadership and the challenges in implementing diversity, equity, and inclusion initiatives.Challenges in Embracing Diversity and Inclusion (00:01:28)Exploring the challenges and potential facade in companies' investment in diversity, equity, and inclusion initiatives.The Need for Tangible Actions (00:02:11)Emphasizing the importance of real tangible actions in building inclusive communities and infrastructure.Commitment to Making a Difference (00:03:11)Expressing the commitment to meaningful and impactful conversations to incite change in the organization and industry.Leadership and Psychological Safety (00:04:09)Discussing the importance of psychological safety and leadership at all levels in organizations.Background of the Guest (00:07:05)Ayo introduces himself and his expertise in management consulting and inclusive leadership.Embracing Privilege and Inclusivity (00:10:30)Encouraging the embrace of privilege and using it for the good of communities and emphasizing the common goals and connections among individuals.Shifting Mindset on Diversity and Inclusion (00:13:27)Highlighting the importance of shifting the mindset from considering diversity and inclusion as expenses to viewing them as investments and assets.Business Case for Diversity and Inclusion (00:14:26)Presenting business cases and studies that demonstrate the benefits of diversity, equity, and inclusion initiatives in organizations.Building Trust and Connection (00:19:11)Strategies for developing relationships, connecting with diverse team members, and fostering trust within the team.Building Trust and Rapport (00:20:04)Strategies for building trust and rapport, including asking personal questions and using personality assessments.Importance of Emotional Intelligence (00:24:57)Discussion on the importance of emotional intelligence in leadership and business relationships.Empathy and Cultural Understanding (00:25:20)The value of empathy and understanding different cultural backgrounds in leadership and management.Fostering Relationships and Trust (00:27:21)Anecdotes and insights on the importance of fostering relationships and trust in the workplace, including a story about cultural adaptation.Continuous Relationship Building (00:32:09)The need for ongoing and intentional relationship building and fostering trust in coaching and leadership.Different Types of Coaching (00:36:10)Exploration of on-the-spot coaching and long-term coaching, and the importance of distinguishing between the two in coaching relationships.Developing Executive Presence (00:39:33)Discussion on creating a plan for developing executive presence, including setting goals, identifying realities, exploring options, and planning the way forward.Application of T-GROW Model in CPA Exam Preparation (00:43:20)Comparison of using the T-GROW model to break down the CPA exam into manageable chunks for better success and its practical applications beyond coaching.Personal Goal Setting Using T-GROW Model (00:44:13)Exploration of using the T-GROW model for personal goal setting and self-coaching, emphasizing the importance of a growth mindset and accountability.The Power of Asking the Right Questions (00:46:06)Importance of asking the right questions as a coach, fostering collaboration, and empowering individuals to think and come up with their own ideas.Practical Applications of T-GROW Model (00:47:02)The effectiveness of coaching through asking questions and helping individuals own their ideas, with practical examples from coaching experiences.Community Engagement and Personal Interests (00:50:48)Ayo's involvement in connecting with the community, exploring diverse activities, and personal interests in reading and writing.Book Recommendation and Leadership Insights (00:52:24)Ayo's current reading, "Leading" by George B. Cuff, and its relevance to leadership, emphasizing the importance of asking quality questions.Connect with Io (00:53:38)Ayo's contact information for connecting on LinkedIn, Instagram, or visiting the website.Closing Remarks (00:54:18)Thanking Ayo for the insightful discussion and expressing interest in future webinars, followed by a brief advertisement for career opportunities.

"My vision is to have a boutique crypto accounting and tax firm. I want to be the premier crypto accounting firm in the U.S., maybe in the world." – Mackenzie Patel The finer details of this episode:Bold career decisions and experiences in the accounting industryMackenzie Patel's focus on cryptocurrency and AI in her accounting firm, Hash BasisMackenzie's journey from considering a career in Big 4 accounting firms to finding her niche in the industryTransition to focusing on cryptocurrency and AI in her accounting firmMackenzie's passion for the technical aspects of accounting and her excitement about the intellectual challenges presented by the crypto industryChallenges and opportunities presented by the volatility of cryptocurrenciesChallenges of hiring for her accounting firm, particularly for the role of a senior crypto accountant Episode resources:Summit Virtual CFO by Anders website: https://www.summitcpa.net/Email us with questions or if you’d like to be a guest on the show: youngcpasuccessshow@anderscpa.comWe’re hiring! Check out our open positions: https://www.summitcpa.net/career-opportunitiesConnect with Mackenzie here: https://www.linkedin.com/in/mackenziepatel/Check out Hash Basis here: https://www.hashbasis.xyz/ Timestamps:Bold Career Decisions (00:00:23)Hosts and guest share their boldest career decisions, including leaving the accounting industry and making a significant life change.Transitioning Careers (00:04:09)Joey discusses transitioning from accounting to insurance and then back to accounting, highlighting the challenges and successes of the journey.Mackenzie Patel's Bold Leaps (00:05:49)The hosts admire Mackenzie Patel's bold career decisions and discuss her passion for cryptocurrency and AI, inspiring others.Early Career Challenges (00:09:26)Mackenzie Patel shares her early career experience, including her decision to move away from the traditional path of working in a big four firm.Discovering Career Preferences (00:12:52)Mackenzie Patel reflects on her internships and how she realized that audit was not the right fit for her, leading her to find a better-suited role at Honeywell.Cryptocurrency and AI Focus (00:16:07)The hosts inquire about Mackenzie Patel's decision to focus on cryptocurrency and AI in her accounting firm, Hash Basis, and the excitement and challenges within this space.The journey into crypto (00:16:43)Mackenzie's transition from corporate accounting to crypto, and her passion for the industry.Passion for accounting and crypto (00:18:09)Mackenzie's enthusiasm for accounting and her deep dive into the crypto world.Entrepreneurial leap into crypto accounting (00:21:33)Mackenzie's decision to start her own crypto accounting firm and the influence of her family background.Challenges and joys of crypto accounting (00:24:37)The unique challenges and joys of working in the emerging field of crypto accounting.The future of crypto and stability (00:27:56)The potential for stability in cryptocurrency and its future as a medium of exchange.Vision for the firm (00:30:11)Mackenzie's vision for her boutique crypto accounting and tax firm, emphasizing a personal and end-to-end service approach.Setting Boundaries and Family Planning (00:32:53)Discussion about setting boundaries and planning for family while managing career growth.Challenges of Hiring and Culture Building (00:33:25)Mackenzie's process of hiring and the challenges faced in finding the right fit for her firm's culture.Importance of Personality Quirks in Hiring (00:34:13)Mackenzie's approach to hiring, focusing on understanding the essence of the person through candid conversations.Revolutionary Business Services and Early Hires (00:35:46)Comparison of Mackenzie's hiring challenges with the experiences of the hosts' bosses when they started their firm.Self-awareness and Compatibility in Hiring (00:37:03)The importance of self-awareness and compatibility in the hiring process, likened to dating.Formatting Quirks and Attention to Detail (00:37:23)Discussion about the importance of formatting quirks and attention to detail in the workplace.Generational Divide: One Space or Two? (00:40:05)Conversation about the generational divide in typing spaces and the history behind it.Marriage Advice and Communication (00:45:46)Advice on understanding weaknesses and communication styles in a marriage, including love languages.Untraditional Wedding and Making Decisions for Yourself (00:48:48)The importance of making wedding decisions for oneself and not solely to please others.Marriage and Communication (00:49:56)Discussion about wedding experiences and the importance of communication in relationships.Trash TV Shows (00:51:25)Conversation about favorite trash TV shows, including "The Bachelor," "The Bachelorette," and teen rom-coms.Television Preferences (00:52:51)Mackenzie's preference for anime and teen rom-coms, Joey's eclectic TV tastes, and his favorite show "The OC."Connecting with Mackenzie (00:56:11)Mackenzie shares her website and LinkedIn profile for listeners to connect with her.Closing Remarks (00:56:47)The hosts thank Mackenzie for joining the show and share information about career opportunities for young CPAs.

“When it comes to mentoring, it takes a big-picture approach to understand that you're just learning and gaining that expertise. You're being mentored to climb the ladder. You're being pulled up and building that expertise, but you're also pulling people with you. During that time, it doesn't mean that you don't know anything. You're able to pay forward the expertise that you have.  For example, if you only have four years of experience in accounting, you have many years' worth of experience to learn.But you are four years ahead of a 22-year-old just getting out of college. And trust me, that 22-year-old is going to think the person with four years of experience is an amazing genius.It’s just four yearsof professional experience, but it can provide tons of value to the college entry-level grad.” – Karl Baker  The finer details of this episode:Challenges and compliance-oriented nature of public accountingImportance of understanding the industry before pursuing a career in accountingSignificance of mentorship and seeking guidance in one's careerEmbracing challenges and learning from difficult experiencesDelayed gratification in careers, particularly in the accounting fieldImpact of experienced professionals in guiding and supporting younger professionalsCultivating an "owner mentality" in staff members and the role of leadership Episode resources:Summit Virtual CFO by Anders website: https://www.summitcpa.net/Email us with questions or if you’d like to be a guest on the show: youngcpasuccessshow@anderscpa.comWe’re hiring! Check out our open positions: https://www.summitcpa.net/career-opportunitiesConnect with Karl here: https://www.linkedin.com/in/karl-baker-b703a54/Check out Baker CFO Advisory, LLC here: https://www.bakercfoadvisory.com/ Timestamps:Looking back (00:00:23)Reflections on past decisions and the concept of "do-overs" in life and career. Career regrets (00:01:00)Hannah shares regrets about prioritizing her husband's career over her own and leaving a job in her 20s. Joey's career decision (00:03:31)Joey reflects on his career decisions and the impact of leaving a job in his mid-20s. Advice from a flight (00:04:21)Joey shares advice he received on a flight and reflects on his career decisions. Karl's public accounting experience (00:11:17)Karl Baker shares his experience in public accounting and the challenges he faced. Shift in public accounting (00:15:17)Discussion on the need for improvement and a shift in the public accounting industry's culture and tone at the top. Tax planning experience (00:17:30)Joey shares a challenging experience with tax planning that led to his decision to move away from public accounting. Understanding the Value of Experience (00:19:13)Discussion on the importance of gaining experience and understanding the value of different career paths in accounting. Real-world Problem Solving in Public Accounting (00:20:28)Experience and skills gained from dealing with real, challenging accounting issues in public accounting. Embracing the Challenges and Learning from Them (00:23:30)Embracing difficult situations and learning from them, leading to personal and professional growth. Gaining Expertise and Sharing Knowledge (00:27:06)The journey of gaining expertise and the value of sharing knowledge and expertise with others. Delayed Gratification and Building Expertise (00:27:19)Understanding the value of delayed gratification in building expertise and the importance of learning in the early years of a career. Mentorship and Leadership (00:29:39)The significance of mentorship and leadership in career development, with a focus on the impact of mentors and leaders. Learning to Ask Questions and Humility (00:32:53)The importance of asking questions, humility, and learning from experiences in the early stages of a career. Developing an Ownership Mentality (00:37:00)The importance of nurturing an ownership mentality in staff and providing a path for future growth and leadership. Client Presentation Experience (00:39:27)Karl's unexpected client presentation experience, leadership demonstration, and the lesson of being prepared. Career Path Conversations (00:42:35)Hannah's regret about not having career path conversations earlier and the importance of self-advocacy. Leadership Encouragement (00:43:52)Encouragement for listeners to have career advancement conversations and the significance of trust and self-advocacy. Transparency and Trust (00:46:36)The importance of transparency in leadership decisions and building trust for mutual benefit. Self-Advocacy and Career Evolution (00:48:40)Karl's experience of self-advocacy, the trust between individuals and firms, and the evolution of a career. Professional and Personal Interests (00:51:15)Karl's transition to a financing advisor, his work-life balance, and personal interests in golf, reading, and coffee. Coffee Enthusiasts (00:53:11)Discussion about the mocha pot and the integration of accountants and coffee lovers. Contact Information (00:54:38)Karl's contact information and his real estate investing podcast.

“In the American workplace, 80% of workers feel stress on the job, and nearly half say they need help in learning how to manage stress. If your people are stressed and they're not talking to you about it, that's a clue that you need to change something in your organization.” – Joey Kinney The finer details of this episode:Stress management in the workplace and at homeChallenges of setting boundaries and prioritizing tasks in work-life balanceImpact of stress on personal lives and managing competing interestsRole of leaders in addressing recurring structural problems contributing to stress Episode resources:Summit Virtual CFO by Anders website: https://www.summitcpa.net/Email us with questions or if you’d like to be a guest on the show: youngcpasuccessshow@anderscpa.comWe’re hiring! Check out our open positions: https://www.summitcpa.net/career-opportunitiesFor more on David Allen’s Getting Things Done® approach mentioned in the episode, check out the Modern CPA Success Show’s episode with Tom and David Allen: https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/getting-things-done-with-david-allen/id1485035727?i=1000595997191 Timestamps:The podcast introduction (00:00:00)Introduction to the podcast and its purpose. Discussing the intention of merging podcasts (00:00:33)Exploring the idea of merging podcasts to create intentional opportunities for audiences to interact. The impact of stress in the workplace (00:01:04)Exploring the impact of stress on individuals in the workplace and the need for stress management. Challenges in managing work-life balance (00:03:07)Challenges in compartmentalizing work and home life, and the evolving understanding of work-life balance. Statistics on workplace stress (00:04:52)Statistics on workplace stress, including the percentage of workers feeling stress and the need for stress management. Personal experience with stress and its impact on health (00:06:00)Personal experience with stress-related health issues and the impact on blood pressure. Impact of stress on decision-making and anxiety (00:09:20)The impact of stress on decision-making, anxiety triggers, and external locus of control. Managing conflicting priorities and setting boundaries (00:14:31)Strategies for managing conflicting priorities, setting boundaries, and learning to say no. Practical tips for stress management (00:16:02)Practical tips for stress management, including exercise, meditation, and acknowledging anxiety. Defining Boundaries (00:18:01)Discusses setting clear limits and commitments to avoid stress and exploding on others. Making Decisions to Reduce Stress (00:18:41)Explores the concept of making one decision now to avoid making multiple decisions later. Saying No and Prioritizing (00:19:38)Discusses the importance of saying no to tasks and commitments and prioritizing responsibilities. Recognizing Personal Limits (00:20:23)Shares experiences of struggling with certain tasks and the importance of acknowledging personal limitations. Getting Things Done Approach (00:22:55)Discusses the approach by David Allen for organizational models and stress management. Acknowledging Stress and Anxiety (00:25:21)Emphasizes the importance of acknowledging stress and anxiety instead of denying or internalizing it. Creating a Safe Space for Stress Discussions (00:26:13)Encourages leaders to create an environment where employees feel safe discussing stress and challenges. Leadership's Role in Stress Management (00:29:21)Highlights the role of leaders in initiating conversations about stress and creating a supportive environment. Addressing Structural Problems (00:32:54)Emphasizes the importance of leaders addressing recurring structural problems causing stress. Managing Stress in the Workplace (00:33:32)Encourages individuals to manage stress rather than seeking a stress-free job, acknowledging personal responsibility. Stress Management Tools (00:35:02)Discussion on effective stress management tools for creating a positive work environment and improving productivity. Closing Remarks (00:35:18)Tom expresses gratitude for the conversation, and Joey reciprocates the sentiment. Career Development Opportunities (00:35:22)Promotion of remote work opportunities and open positions for young CPAs at Summit Virtual CFO and Anders + CPAs and Advisors.

“If you sit down and really make sure that your profile resonates and is truly you, it feels good, and you smile. Ultimately, you become a person who doesn't have to look for a job. Jobs find you. You become a person whose phone rings because there are opportunities, because people know you, remember you, have worked with you, and they want to work with you again.”—Donna Serdula The finer details of this episode:Importance of personal branding on LinkedInShift in perception of the platformChallenges of creating and maintaining a professional presence on social mediaControlling one's personal brand and its impact on career opportunitiesShowcasing values, actions, and descriptions to create a strong and memorable brandBalancing professionalism with personal authenticity on LinkedInImportance of consistency and cadence in posting content on LinkedIn Episode resources:Summit Virtual CFO by Anders website: https://www.summitcpa.net/Email us with questions or if you’d like to be a guest on the show: youngcpasuccessshow@anderscpa.comWe’re hiring! Check out our open positions: https://www.summitcpa.net/career-opportunitieshttps://Donnanaserdula.com/https://www.linkedin.com/in/toDonnana/ Timestamps:The importance of personal branding on LinkedIn (00:01:13)Discussion on the psychology behind personal branding and deliberate control of perception. The shift in perception of LinkedIn (00:02:07)The change from a passive networking platform to a more active and personal branding platform. The challenges of maintaining a professional presence on social media (00:02:44)Struggles with the perception of LinkedIn as a purely professional platform and the fear of being too personal. The evolving concept of professionalism on LinkedIn (00:04:25)Debunking the traditional image of professionalism and the need to move away from the concept of a suit and tie. The importance of personal branding for career growth (00:08:08)Emphasizing the significance of personal branding for career development and the need to control one's brand. Strategies for personal branding on LinkedIn (00:09:49)Discussion on the vision, mission, and consistent portrayal of oneself to create a strong personal brand. The value of personal connection in professional work (00:12:49)The significance of bringing one's whole self to work and the impact of personal connections in professional settings. The time and effort required for effective LinkedIn utilization (00:15:49)The need for strategic planning, time investment, and iterative work to create a strong LinkedIn profile. Overcoming psychological barriers to posting on LinkedIn (00:18:16)Dealing with the negative psychology and vulnerability associated with posting on LinkedIn. The positivity of LinkedIn (00:19:08)Discussion about the positive and professional atmosphere of LinkedIn compared to other social media platforms. Building a professional network (00:20:08)The importance of surrounding oneself with positive and empowering connections on LinkedIn. Creating an authentic LinkedIn profile (00:21:06)Encouragement to take control of one's image on LinkedIn, making the profile authentic and aligned with personal goals. Utilizing LinkedIn for professional relationships (00:22:00)The significance of researching and checking out profiles on LinkedIn for business interactions. Starting and maintaining a LinkedIn profile (00:24:43)Encouragement for individuals to start their LinkedIn journey and the emotional component of personal branding. Success on LinkedIn and real-world relationships (00:26:23)Emphasizing the importance of moving beyond LinkedIn to build real-world relationships for professional success. Consistency and storytelling on LinkedIn (00:33:42)The importance of consistency in posting and sharing on LinkedIn, drawing parallels with a story from "The Little Prince." Balancing positivity and authenticity on LinkedIn (00:37:01)Encouragement to not overthink posting on LinkedIn and to share authentic experiences without worrying about being too cringey. Personal Branding on LinkedIn (00:37:50)Donna discusses the importance of posting on LinkedIn to develop personal branding and shares tips for creating engaging content. Encouragement and Personal Growth (00:40:43)The hosts and Donna share personal experiences and offer encouragement for those feeling behind in their professional journey. Expanding Your Network on LinkedIn (00:43:08)Donna advises expanding the LinkedIn network to gain diverse perspectives and avoid feeling stuck in comparison. Investing in Personal Branding (00:45:18)Donna emphasizes the value of investing in personal branding and recommends utilizing free resources for self-improvement. Personal Life and Interests (00:46:38)Donna shares personal insights about being a mother and having a son with special needs, offering a broader perspective for her work.

“People are not black and white; they are nuanced, with different needs and communication styles. I really try to teach my managers and leaders that you have to learn how to communicate, not just say what you want and then move on. This is especially important in a remote environment.” -Cory Gayman  The finer details of this episode:Challenges and benefits of remote work in the accounting industryManaging a hybrid setupAdapting services for virtual workDelegation and communication in remote work environmentsFocusing on outcomes rather than inputsBuilding trust in remote employeesImpact of remote work on recruiting and retentionImportance of flexibility and work-life balance Episode resources:Summit Virtual CFO by Anders website: https://www.summitcpa.net/Email us with questions or if you’d like to be a guest on the show: youngcpasuccessshow@anderscpa.comWe’re hiring! Check out our open positions: https://www.summitcpa.net/career-opportunitieshttps://jcgcpafirm.com/ Time stamps:Remote Work Challenges (00:00:24)Discussion on the challenges and future implications of remote work, especially in rural areas.Adapting Traditional Practices (00:01:02)Converting and updating traditional CPA practices into virtual setups and the challenges encountered.Transition to Virtual Processes (00:02:05)The process of transitioning traditional practices to virtual processes, including the challenges faced and the need for education.Employee Resistance to Change (00:04:23)The mixed response of employees to change, particularly in terms of adapting to remote work and new systems.Adapting Services for Virtual Work (00:06:12)Tweaking accounting services to fit the virtual work environment, challenges faced, and the importance of educating clients.Delegation and Team Growth (00:07:42)The significance of delegation in a firm, the need for skill development, and the impact on team growth and efficiency.Managing People and Communication (00:09:44)The importance of managing people effectively, investing in people management skills, and the role of communication in remote work environments.Trust and Communication in Remote Work (00:12:08)The challenges and importance of trust and communication in remote work setups, including strategies for effective communication.Balancing Remote Work Expectations (00:14:52)Discussion on time budgets, trust, and the need to focus on project outcomes rather than monitoring employees' every move.Remote Work Productivity and Trust (00:15:41)Challenges related to trust, productivity, and the shift from traditional office-based work to remote work environments.Maintaining Remote Work Culture (00:18:40)The struggle of some CPA firms in implementing remote work culture and the potential loss of employees due to resistance to remote work.The importance of remote relationships (00:18:57)Emphasizing the benefits of remote relationships for clients and employees, promoting efficiency and convenience.Leveraging remote culture for growth (00:20:06)Discussing the use of remote culture to grow the workforce and retain employees, focusing on seasonal preparers and concerns about loyalty.The value of human interaction (00:22:53)Highlighting the importance of human interaction in a remote work environment, sharing personal experiences and the need for connections.Promoting work-life balance (00:29:37)Encouraging flexibility for working parents, promoting a family-first culture, and prioritizing work-life balance.Transitioning to a stress-free environment (00:32:47)Emphasizing the need for a project-driven approach over hours, promoting a 32-hour workweek, and reducing stress in the workplace.The challenges of remote work (00:38:24)Discussion on the potential negative impact of long working hours and the challenges faced by new CPAs.Flexibility in work hours (00:40:09)The importance of flexibility in work hours and the appeal it holds for young professionals and experienced CPAs.Transitioning into retirement (00:42:52)The challenges and adjustments faced by CPAs transitioning from high-stress work to retirement, and the value of part-time opportunities for retired professionals.Reducing stress and extending careers (00:43:49)The importance of reducing stress in the accounting industry to extend careers and provide a soft landing for retiring professionals.Promoting work-life balance (00:45:59)The value of promoting a healthier work-life balance and reducing the emphasis on the number of working hours as a measure of value.Personal life and community involvement (00:47:15)Insight into the personal life and community involvement of a CPA, including family activities, involvement in local government, and community engagement.Firm's services and remote work opportunities (00:50:17)Information on the firm's services, including remote work opportunities, and the expansion of services to include tax advisory and business coaching.

The finer details of this episode:Differences between CMA (Certified Management Accountant) and CPA (Certified Public Accountant) exams/certifications Applying knowledge from school, exams, and work experience in current roleChallenges and loopholes in meeting the 150-hour rule Importance of practical work experience and technology in the industry Episode resources:Summit Virtual CFO by Anders website: https://www.summitcpa.net/Email us with questions or if you’d like to be a guest on the show: youngcpasuccessshow@anderscpa.comWe’re hiring! Check out our open positions: https://www.summitcpa.net/career-opportunitieshttps://www.linkedin.com/in/kadencook/ Time Stamps:Welcome to the Young CPA Success Show (00:00:01)Introduction to the podcast and its purpose. Kaden's Journey into Accounting and Certifications (00:00:23)Kaden's background, choice of certifications, and the differences between CMA and CPA exams. Discussion on School, Career Choices, and Future of Accounting (00:01:51)Insights on the 150-credit hour requirement for the CPA exam, career choices, and the future of accounting. Discovering Summit CFO through a Podcast (00:02:42)Kaden's discovery of Summit CFO through a podcast and the topics discussed in the podcast. Choosing CMA Over CPA and Its Benefits (00:07:12)Reasons for choosing CMA over CPA, including the differences in exam requirements and the benefits of starting the CMA exam during college. Comparing CMA and CPA Exams (00:13:19)Kaden's experience with both CMA and CPA exams, including differences in exam structure, content, and difficulty. Application of Knowledge from School, Exams, and Work Experience (00:18:30)Discussion on how Kaden applies knowledge from school, exams, and work experience in his current role, and the importance of understanding the material thoroughly. Understanding Financial Accounting (00:19:28)Kaden discusses how his college education greatly contributed to his understanding of financial accounting. Work Experience and CMA (00:19:49)Kaden explains how his work experience and CMA studies went in tandem, providing practical application. Challenges in Education (00:21:29)Joey and Kaden discuss the shift in education focus from understanding to chasing grades. Impact of 150-hour Rule (00:26:44)The 150-hour rule for the CPA exam is discussed, and Kaden shares how he and others found loopholes. Alternative Credit Acquisition (00:31:17)Kaden shares a loophole to acquire credits for the 150-hour rule through online FEMA courses. Debate on 150-hour Requirement (00:33:22)The debate on the value and practicality of the 150-hour requirement for the CPA exam is discussed. The Future of Accounting (00:37:09)Kaden emphasizes the importance of technological proficiency for future success in accounting. The importance of understanding AI (00:38:26)Discussion on the necessity of understanding AI and its role in the advisory world. Advising students to think beyond exams (00:39:28)Encouraging students to focus on synthesizing information and putting pieces together for future success. Appreciation and encouragement (00:40:01)Expressing gratitude to the guest for sharing insights and encouraging audience engagement. Opportunities for young CPAs (00:40:38)Promotion of career development opportunities for young CPAs at Summit Virtual CFO and Anders CPAs and Advisors.

The finer details of this episode:Evolution of accounting software and early career experiencesImportance of embracing change and innovation in the industryLeveraging technology to streamline accounting processesChallenges and opportunities in early career development Episode resources:Summit Virtual CFO by Anders website: https://www.summitcpa.net/Email us with questions or if you’d like to be a guest on the show: youngcpasuccessshow@anderscpa.comWe’re hiring! Check out our open positions: https://www.summitcpa.net/career-opportunitieshttps://www.finoptimal.com/https://www.linkedin.com/in/jesserubenfeld/https://www.linkedin.com/in/tom-zehentner-cpa-a0591b5b/If you love this conversation, don’t miss Hannah and Joey on the FinOptimal podcast, Another Not Another Accounting Podcast: https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/ep-77-young-cpas/id1734624758?i=1000653170191 Timestamps:The wild west of the internet (00:00:22)Discussion about the early internet era, LimeWire, and the evolution of music downloading. Evolution of internet and social media (00:03:03)Recollection of early internet trends and social media references, including the YouTube evolution of dance video and internet games. Initial experiences with computer games (00:04:08)Nostalgic conversation about classic computer games like Civilization and Age of Empires. Transition to accounting and QuickBooks (00:05:14)Discussion about the unexpected transition to accounting over the internet and QuickBooks online. Adapting to change in accounting (00:07:26)Reflections on the need for a mindset of continuous improvement and embracing change in the accounting industry. Challenges and rebellion in early career (00:09:18)The defiance and challenges faced in early career stages and the development of confidence to pursue a better way. Challenges in traditional accounting firms (00:10:07)The limitations of traditional accounting firms in embracing new approaches and the unique situation of starting a career at a startup. The role of an architect in accounting (00:13:25)The discussion about the architectural role in making accounting more efficient and the rewarding nature of creative problem-solving. Founding of FinOptimal (00:15:39)The backstory and founding of FinOptimal, including the challenges and evolution of QuickBooks online. Transition to QuickBooks online (00:16:39)Discussion about the transition from QuickBooks desktop to QuickBooks online and the limitations faced in the past. Software automation in accounting (00:17:06)The secret to success being software that automates accounting processes and the decision to go with QuickBooks online. Technology and Business Growth (00:17:28)Discussion about the development of technology to improve efficiency and competitiveness in the accounting industry. Challenges in Accounting Software (00:18:21)Exploration of the challenges and changes in accounting software, including user-friendliness and adaptability to different generations. Building Automation Tools (00:20:22)The process of building automation tools and the importance of understanding accounting nuances for effective tool development. Empowering Young Accountants (00:21:30)Advice and experiences shared to empower young accountants to drive change and innovation in their roles. Risk-taking and Entrepreneurial Spirit (00:23:45)Discussion on the entrepreneurial mindset, risk-taking, and the need for experience in driving improvements and automation in accounting processes. Generational Perspectives on Technology (00:27:56)Exploration of generational perspectives on technology, feedback loops, and the impact of social media on business feedback. Collaboration and Innovation (00:32:30)The importance of collaboration between different generations and skill sets in driving innovation and experimentation in accounting technology. Coding and College (00:35:35)Discussion about coding and the value of learning it in high school and college. Excel and Coding (00:37:37)Comparison between accounting and coding, and the potential for accountants to transition into coding. College Curriculum (00:40:15)Discussion about the relevance of college curriculum to practical accounting work and suggestions for improving it. Communication and Analogies (00:45:14)Importance of communication skills and the use of analogies in effective conversations. Proud Facts (00:48:32)Sharing personal achievements and hobbies, including playing an original song for Billy Joel and cooking. Barbecue Debate (00:51:01)Debate about the quality of Brooklyn brisket compared to Texas brisket. Pizza Making (00:52:30)Discussion about making pizza dough and sauces from scratch using an outdoor pizza oven. Learning to Cook and Culinary Adventures (00:52:40)The guests discuss their experiences with cooking and culinary interests, including attending culinary school and future plans for a restaurant. Appreciation for Taylor Swift (00:54:05)The conversation shifts to a discussion about the love for Taylor Swift's music and the impact of her storytelling through songs. College Football and Rivalries (00:55:15)The guests share their experiences and affiliations with different college football teams, discussing rivalries and game environments. Promoting New Podcast and Farewell (00:56:43)The guests promote their new podcast, share information about their company, and express gratitude for the opportunity to be on the show.