The Modern Firm®

High-performing accounting firms charge premium fees—often double the industry average—and their owners are working fewer than 40 hours a week. In this episode of The Modern Firm Podcast, Ryan Lazanis (founder of Future Firm) shares insights from his 2025 Modern Firm Report on how smarter pricing translates to less stress and more freedom. Discover why the most successful firm owners focus on building a strong team and delegating effectively, and how packaging services around client outcomes instead of task lists can positively impact your value. Ryan also reveals why setting firm boundaries and saying “no” more often might be the key to reclaiming your time and running a thriving, modern firm.Resource Links:The 2025 Modern Firm ReportNewsletter SignupConnect with Ryan on LinkedInThe Modern Firm® is produced and owned by Rightworks. You can learn more about the podcast, episode recaps and more at rightworks.com/resources/podcasts.Follow Rightworks on social:Twitter: https://twitter.com/rightworks_Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/rightworksllcLinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/company/rightworksInstagram: https://www.instagram.com/rightworks_YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@Rightworks_TikTok: https://www.tiktok.com/@rightworks_

In this episode of The Modern Firm Podcast, TJ sits down with Roman Kepczyk, Director of Firm Technology Strategy at Rightworks and one of the profession’s most respected tech consultants. Together, they explore what’s top of mind for firms at the midpoint of 2025—from the accelerating adoption of AI and the emergence of agentic workflows, to the evolving cybersecurity threats and the continued impact of private equity across the profession.Roman shares practical insights drawn from his extensive work with firms of all sizes, including where AI is showing real returns, why legacy apps are falling short, and how firms can stay ahead by fostering continuous learning and tech leadership. Whether you're figuring out where AI fits in your firm, or deciding whether to stick or switch platforms, this episode offers a strategic look at what it means to stay modern in a rapidly evolving industry.Roman's experts to follow:Jason Staats – AI in accounting thought leaderHector Garcia – CAS & QuickBooks automationJohn Higgins – Microsoft Copilot in practiceBernard Marr – Agentic AI and industry trendsShelly Palmer – AI in enterprise and beyondConnect with Roman KepczykLinkedIn: Roman KepczykEmail: roman@rightworks.comThe Modern Firm® is produced and owned by Rightworks. You can learn more about the podcast, episode recaps and more at rightworks.com/resources/podcasts.Follow Rightworks on social:Twitter: https://twitter.com/rightworks_Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/rightworksllcLinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/company/rightworksInstagram: https://www.instagram.com/rightworks_YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@Rightworks_TikTok: https://www.tiktok.com/@rightworks_

In this engaging session, Gary Vaynerchuk, Chairman of VaynerX and CEO of VaynerMedia, dives into the future of marketing and business. He emphasizes the power of authentic, simple content over polished perfection. Gary discusses the growing influence of AI and its necessity in business strategy. He also shares personal aspirations, like owning the New York Jets, tying them to themes of grit and purpose. Learn how today’s talent seeks meaningful engagement and why adapting to change is crucial for long-term success.

Josh Linkner, an innovation expert and five-time tech entrepreneur, shares invaluable insights on fostering everyday creativity in accounting. He discusses how firms can thrive by creating a culture of innovation that encourages small experiments without fear. Linkner presents his "Find a Way" framework, emphasizing personal growth over comparison with others. He also explores the symbiotic relationship between human creativity and AI, urging leaders to embrace technology as a partner rather than a competitor. A must-listen for those ready to innovate!

What if you could swap $10 tasks for $10k impact?Host TJ Lewis talks with Dr. Sabrina Starling—“The Business Psychologist,” bestselling author of How to Hire the Best and The 4 Week Vacation®—about escaping hustle culture in modern accounting firms. Citing research on 700+ entrepreneurs, Dr. Sabrina reveals that 90% are burning out and explains how to flip the script by focusing on “$10,000-an-hour activities”: work done in your zone of strength that makes everything else easier or unnecessary. She recounts limiting her own schedule to 25 hours a week, delegating low-value tasks, and using “vacation-testing” to build a business that runs smoothly during a fully unplugged four-week break—demonstrating that Work Supports Life™, not the other way around. Listeners get practical guidance on time-blocking, tracking tasks for delegation, and empowering teams.Links mentioned in this episode:$10,000-an-Hour Activities Chart Where to Find Dr. Sabrina Online (41:00 – 41:20):Profit by Design Podcast Tap the Potential websiteInstagram: @DrSabrinaFacebook: TapthepotentialUpcoming Dr. Sabrina EventsHow to make your time worth $10,000/hr | July 17 at 2-3 p.m. ET.The Modern Firm® is produced and owned by Rightworks. You can learn more about the podcast, episode recaps and more at rightworks.com/resources/podcasts.Follow Rightworks on social:Twitter: https://twitter.com/rightworks_Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/rightworksllcLinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/company/rightworksInstagram: https://www.instagram.com/rightworks_YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@Rightworks_TikTok: https://www.tiktok.com/@rightworks_

Join Hector Garcia, a CPA, QuickBooks trainer, and AI thought leader with over 300,000 YouTube subscribers, as he redefines the role of accountants in the AI era. He discusses how empathy and personalization are becoming crucial in an increasingly automated field. The conversation dives into innovative business models like outcome-driven billing and subscription pricing. Hector also emphasizes the importance of ethical considerations and AI literacy, urging accountants to embrace creativity and communication to thrive in a transformed landscape.

In this episode of The Modern Firm Podcast, host TJ Lewis welcomes back Amy Vetter—CPA, yogi, keynote speaker, and CEO of the B3 Method Institute—for a powerful conversation about one of the most underrated tools in a leader’s toolkit: the pause. As firms navigate the intensity of busy season and beyond, Amy challenges the grind mindset and makes the case for carving out space—mentally, emotionally, and physically—as a pathway to real productivity and fulfillment.Together, TJ and Amy unpack why high-achieving professionals struggle to slow down, how intentional breaks can actually sharpen performance, and what it means to replace work-life balance with true work-life harmony. Whether you lead a team or are simply looking for a healthier rhythm in your workday, this episode offers small, practical shifts that lead to big change—not just for your firm, but for your whole self.Resources and Links:Mel Robbins' book: The Let Them TheoryConnect with Amy Vetter:Websites: amyvetter.com  and businessbalancebliss.com Podcast: Breaking Beliefs LinkedIn: www.linkedin.com/in/amyvettercpa/The Modern Firm® is produced and owned by Rightworks. You can learn more about the podcast, episode recaps and more at rightworks.com/resources/podcasts.Follow Rightworks on social:Twitter: https://twitter.com/rightworks_Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/rightworksllcLinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/company/rightworksInstagram: https://www.instagram.com/rightworks_YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@Rightworks_

Could engaging your team differently unlock the innovation and change your firm needs to thrive?In this episode of The Modern Firm Podcast, TJ Lewis and Jen Wilson, partner and co-founder of ConvergenceCoaching, LLC, discuss strategies for engaging talent, fostering innovation, and driving meaningful change in accounting firms. They explore how firms can use the post-peak season to reflect, streamline workloads, and rethink traditional processes like deadlines and billing practices.Jen emphasizes the importance of empowering employees by valuing their contributions and fostering a culture of transparency and trust. She shares actionable steps to build innovation-focused teams, leverage professional communities, and align work cycles to reduce strain. Whether you’re a firm leader or team member, this episode provides practical strategies to help your organization thrive.Resources and Links:RightNOW25 conference: https://www.rightworks.com/rightnow2025Rightworks Community: https://rightworkscommunity.circle.so/c/start-here/Connect with Jennifer Wilson:Email: jen@convergencecoaching.comwebsite: https://convergencecoaching.com/LinkedIn: http://www.linkedin.com/in/jenniferwilsonprofileThe Modern Firm® is produced and owned by Rightworks. You can learn more about the podcast, episode recaps and more at rightworks.com/resources/podcasts.Follow Rightworks on social:Twitter: https://twitter.com/rightworks_Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/rightworksllcLinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/company/rightworksInstagram: https://www.instagram.com/rightworks_YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@Rightworks_

Will Hill, with over 20 years of experience in guiding firms through change, shares invaluable insights on leading purposeful transformations in accounting. He discusses the importance of assessing a firm's current state to set realistic goals and measure success. Transparency and communication are highlighted as tools to reduce resistance to change, while balancing stability with innovation is deemed crucial. Listeners can expect practical strategies for prioritizing initiatives and fostering an innovative mindset to thrive in today’s fast-paced environment.

What does it really mean to be a modern firm in today’s constantly evolving landscape?In this episode of The Modern Firm® podcast, host TJ Lewis sets the stage for the new season. With a focus on innovation and evolution, TJ redefines what it means to be a modern accounting firm—not as a fixed destination, but as an ongoing journey rooted in a growth mindset. He highlights the key pillars that shape modern firms: business model, clients, staff, and technology.Throughout the season, listeners can expect insightful conversations with industry experts on how to navigate change, embrace innovation, and move their firms forward. TJ also shares his experience developing a tool designed to assess and prioritize change, along with key lessons learned in that process. Additionally, he emphasizes the importance of community as a way to "find your people," fostering learning, accountability, and support.Resources and Links:RightNOW25 conference: https://events.rightworks.com/event/rightnow2025/rightnow-2025Rightworks Community: https://rightworkscommunity.circle.so/c/start-here/The Modern Firm® is produced and owned by Rightworks. You can learn more about the podcast, episode recaps and more at rightworks.com/resources/podcasts.Follow Rightworks on social:Twitter: https://twitter.com/rightworks_Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/rightworksllcLinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/company/rightworksInstagram: https://www.instagram.com/rightworks_