

The Ambitious Bookkeeper Podcast
Serena Shoup, CPA
The Ambitious Bookkeeper podcast is for bookkeepers & accountants who are growing or aspiring to start their own business. Our mission is to elevate the bookkeeping profession by providing support and resources for new and experienced firm owners. We share actionable tips on running a successful bookkeeping business, tools and resources, plus guest expert interviews that will help you elevate your business. Where you can find us: Website: https://www.ambitiousbookkeeper.com BBA: https://www.ambitiousbookkeeper.com/bba Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/serenashoupcpa LinkedIn: https://linkedin.com/in/serenashoup Instagram: https://instagram.com/ambitiousbookkeeper
Episodes
Mentioned books

Apr 23, 2025 • 39min
196 ⎸ The Comeback Blueprint: What Every Ambitious Man Needs to Hear with Cletus Coffey
Send us a textIn this powerful episode of The Ambitious Bookkeeper Podcast, Serena Shoup chats with Cletus Coffey, former pro athlete, single dad, and founder of Torch Training. Cletus shares his remarkable journey from professional sports to entrepreneurial failures to finding his authentic purpose through personal transformation.In this episode you’ll hear:Cletus's journey from pro athlete to struggling entrepreneur to finding true alignmentPractical frameworks for balancing ambition, family, and personal growthHow to break free from achievement addiction and redefine success beyond the "scoreboard"The importance of mastering your mornings and creating structure that prioritizes self-careResources mentioned in this episode:Cletus Coffey's website: CletusCoffey.comBe The Torch PodcastMorning Mastery Challenge - includes downloadable cheat sheet and video tutorialBBD Live with James Wedmore (event where Serena and Cletus met)Meet Cletus CoffeyCletus Coffey is a former professional and world champion athlete turned founder of Be The Torch Academy. After losing his first business and navigating the challenges of divorce and being a single dad, Cletus struggled silently through a long period of pain and darkness. Through an unwavering devotion to self-mastery, he unlocked a path to greater personal power, purpose and passion, which included helping men—specifically single fathers and entrepreneurs—master their lives and businesses. Combining self-mastery with business and personal development, Cletus helps single dads who own a business, master their true authentic self so that they can finally become a man capable of experiencing happiness, fulfillment and freedom in their business and life.Connect with Cletus Coffeyhttps://www.linkedin.com/in/cletuscoffey/https://www.linkedin.com/company/torchtraining/@cletuscoffeyThanks for listening. If this episode inspired you in some way, take a screenshot of you listening on your device and post it to your Instagram stories and tag me @ambitiousbookkeeperFor more information about the Ambitious Bookkeeper Podcast or interest in our programs or mentoring visit our resources below:Visit our website: https://www.ambitiousbookkeeper.comFollow the Blog: https://www.ambitiousbookkeeper.com/blogConnect on Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/ambitiousbookkeeperConnect on Threads: https://www.threads.net/@ambitiousbookkeeperConnect on Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/serenashoupcpaThank you for your support of our show. If you haven’t left a review yet it’s super simple. Please go to ambitiousbookkeeper.com/podcast and leave your review.Podcast Publishing Tools we use:Editing → Sabr Media LLC: https://www.iangilliam.com/sabr-media-llcDescript: https://get.descript.com/u7lubkx09073 (affiliate link)Buzzsprout: https://www.buzzsprout.com/?referrer_id=1753696 (af

Apr 16, 2025 • 12min
195 | Bookkeeping in the Fair Tax Era
Send us a textIn this mini-episode, Serena shares her research on the Fair Tax Act and what it could mean for bookkeepers. She explains how this potential legislation would eliminate income tax and the IRS, replacing them with a national sales tax. Serena offers practical advice for bookkeepers to prepare for this potential shift and future-proof their businesses.In this episode you’ll hear:A breakdown of what the Fair Tax Act actually means (goodbye income tax, hello 23-30% national sales tax!)How bookkeeping services would evolve rather than disappear in this new tax landscapeThree actionable steps to prepare your bookkeeping business for this potential changeWhy this shift could actually be an opportunity for ambitious bookkeepers to expand their servicesResources mentioned in this episode:Sales Tax Workshop: ambitiousbookkeeper.com/salestaxElevate Program: ambitiousbookkeeper.com/elevateThe Accounting Podcast (formerly Cloud Accounting Podcast)AvalaraTax JarQBOXeroThanks for listening. If this episode inspired you in some way, take a screenshot of you listening on your device and post it to your Instagram stories and tag me @ambitiousbookkeeperFor more information about the Ambitious Bookkeeper Podcast or interest in our programs or mentoring visit our resources below:Visit our website: https://www.ambitiousbookkeeper.comFollow the Blog: https://www.ambitiousbookkeeper.com/blogConnect on Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/ambitiousbookkeeperConnect on Threads: https://www.threads.net/@ambitiousbookkeeperConnect on Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/serenashoupcpaThank you for your support of our show. If you haven’t left a review yet it’s super simple. Please go to ambitiousbookkeeper.com/podcast and leave your review.Podcast Publishing Tools we use:Editing → Sabr Media LLC: https://www.iangilliam.com/sabr-media-llcDescript: https://get.descript.com/u7lubkx09073 (affiliate link)Buzzsprout: https://www.buzzsprout.com/?referrer_id=1753696 (affiliate link)

Apr 9, 2025 • 6min
194 | Organizing and Managing Work Production in Your Small Firm
Send us a textRunning a bookkeeping or accounting firm means juggling multiple clients, deadlines, and deliverables - often leading to that feeling of "I'm drowning in work!" As someone who's built a successful practice while working 20 hours or less per week, I've discovered that how you organize and manage your workflow makes all the difference between constant overwhelm and smooth operations.Whether you're flying solo or leading a small team, these three actionable strategies will help you streamline your processes, reduce stress, and scale your firm without the burnout.In this episode you’ll hear:Three actionable strategies to centralize your workflows and processes in one placeHow to implement a standardized file naming system that saves you hours of searchingTips for designing your week with focus blocks to avoid context switching and burnoutReal examples of how I apply these strategies in my own bookkeeping businessResources mentioned in this episode:ClickupAsanaGoogle SheetsGoogle DriveThe Bookkeeping Business Accelerator: https://www.ambitiousbookkeeper.com/bbaThanks for listening. If this episode inspired you in some way, take a screenshot of you listening on your device and post it to your Instagram stories and tag me @ambitiousbookkeeperFor more information about the Ambitious Bookkeeper Podcast or interest in our programs or mentoring visit our resources below:Visit our website: https://www.ambitiousbookkeeper.comFollow the Blog: https://www.ambitiousbookkeeper.com/blogConnect on Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/ambitiousbookkeeperConnect on Threads: https://www.threads.net/@ambitiousbookkeeperConnect on Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/serenashoupcpaThank you for your support of our show. If you haven’t left a review yet it’s super simple. Please go to ambitiousbookkeeper.com/podcast and leave your review.Podcast Publishing Tools we use:Editing → Sabr Media LLC: https://www.iangilliam.com/sabr-media-llcDescript: https://get.descript.com/u7lubkx09073 (affiliate link)Buzzsprout: https://www.buzzsprout.com/?referrer_id=1753696 (affiliate link)

Apr 2, 2025 • 15min
193 | Marketing without Social Media
Send us a textSerena dives deep into marketing strategies for bookkeepers and small business owners who are skeptical or overwhelmed by social media, sharing practical tips for building connections and growing your business.What You’ll Learn:Marketing isn't just about social media: Discover a multi-pronged approach including offline networking, online presence, and website strategyBuild your "circle of influence" by connecting with complementary professionals like insurance agents, bankers, and consultantsHow to start small and prioritize your marketing efforts without getting overwhelmedThe power of delivering exceptional service as your best marketing toolResources mentioned:UpworkLinkedInKajabiSquarespaceTia's "Squarespace for Bookkeepers" Program: https://www.riledupgoats.com/ssfbFor experienced bookkeepers & accountants:Learn how to start your bookkeeping business in The Bookkeeping Business Accelerator®: https://www.ambitiousbookkeeper.com/bbaGrab my FREE Start your Bookkeeping Biz Checklist: https://www.ambitiousbookkeeper.com/checklistGrab my FREE New Client Onboarding Templates: https://www.ambitiousbookkeeper.com/onboardFor new bookkeepers:Learn the fundamental accounting skills in Katie Ferro's Become a Bookkeeper: https://www.katieferro.com/a/38894/2PQNgtvvFor online course creators:Become a client at my firm, Of Course Financial: https://www.ofcoursebookkeeping.com/contactConnect with us:Visit our website: https://www.ambitiousbookkeeper.comFollow the Blog: https://www.ambitiousbookkeeper.com/blogConnect on Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/ambitiousbookkeeperConnect on Threads: https://www.threads.net/@ambitiousbookkeeperConnect on Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/serenashoupcpaPodcast Publishing Tools we use:Editing → Sabr Media LLC: https://www.iangilliam.com/sabr-media-llcDescript: https://get.descript.com/u7lubkx09073 (affiliate link)Buzzsprout: https://www.buzzsprout.com/?referrer_id=1753696 (affiliate link)

Mar 26, 2025 • 9min
192 | How to Combat Imposter Syndrome
Send us a textIn this episode I’m tackling a listener ‘struggle’: Imposter Syndrome.This is also a MINI episode, which means you can view the video on YouTube! While you’re there, make sure to subscribe!Resources mentioned in this episode:The Bookkeeping Biz WorkshopsMy FREE TrainingThanks for listening. If this episode inspired you in some way, take a screenshot of you listening on your device and post it to your Instagram stories and tag me @ambitiousbookkeeperFor more information about the Ambitious Bookkeeper Podcast or interest in our programs or mentoring visit our resources below:Visit our website: https://www.ambitiousbookkeeper.comFollow the Blog: https://www.ambitiousbookkeeper.com/blogConnect on Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/ambitiousbookkeeperConnect on Threads: https://www.threads.net/@ambitiousbookkeeperConnect on Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/serenashoupcpaThank you for your support of our show. If you haven’t left a review yet it’s super simple. Please go to ambitiousbookkeeper.com/podcast and leave your review.Podcast Publishing Tools we use:Editing → Sabr Media LLC: https://www.iangilliam.com/sabr-media-llcDescript: https://get.descript.com/u7lubkx09073 (affiliate link)Buzzsprout: https://www.buzzsprout.com/?referrer_id=1753696 (affiliate link)

Mar 19, 2025 • 10min
191 | Setting up TaxJar for eCommerce Businesses
Send us a textIn today's bite-sized episode, we're diving into the nitty-gritty of setting up TaxJar for eCommerce businesses. Whether you're a bookkeeper with some eCommerce clients or an online seller yourself, stick around. Serena's got some super helpful insights coming your way, complete with screen sharing over on YouTube if you're up for it.Resources mentioned:TaxJarAvalaraShopifySquareLearn more about sales tax in the sales tax workshop: http://ambitiousbookkeeper.com/salestaxFor experienced bookkeepers & accountants:Learn how to start your bookkeeping business in The Bookkeeping Business Accelerator®: https://www.ambitiousbookkeeper.com/bbaGrab my FREE Start your Bookkeeping Biz Checklist: https://www.ambitiousbookkeeper.com/checklistGrab my FREE New Client Onboarding Templates: https://www.ambitiousbookkeeper.com/onboardFor new bookkeepers:Learn the fundamental accounting skills in Katie Ferro's Become a Bookkeeper: https://www.katieferro.com/a/38894/2PQNgtvvFor online course creators:Become a client at my firm, Of Course Financial: https://www.ofcoursebookkeeping.com/contactConnect with us:Visit our website: https://www.ambitiousbookkeeper.comFollow the Blog: https://www.ambitiousbookkeeper.com/blogConnect on Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/ambitiousbookkeeperConnect on Threads: https://www.threads.net/@ambitiousbookkeeperConnect on Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/serenashoupcpaPodcast Publishing Tools we use:Editing → Sabr Media LLC: https://www.iangilliam.com/sabr-media-llcDescript: https://get.descript.com/u7lubkx09073 (affiliate link)Buzzsprout: https://www.buzzsprout.com/?referrer_id=1753696 (affiliate link)

Mar 12, 2025 • 33min
190 ⎸ Building Business Together with Megan Tobler
Send us a textIn this episode, we're diving into a wonderful conversation between Serena Shoup and Megan Tobler. Megan shares her inspiring journey from corporate sales to building a vibrant business community for moms in entrepreneurship.In this episode you’ll hear:The reality of juggling motherhood and building a business from the ground up.How Megan leveraged her natural talents from sales to start her own podcast, create a community, and ultimately leave the corporate world behind.Megan's new community initiative, Together, which focuses on supporting women like us in their entrepreneurial and life journeys.A sweet little bonus from MeganResources mentioned in this episode:Sign up for the FREE community: www.selfstarther.com/togetherFREE Positivity Playlist: https://selfstarther.mykajabi.com/positivity-playlist-info-landing-pageMeet Megan ToblerMegan Tobler is the founder of Self StartHER, a vibrant community and podcast designed for women who are building businesses while balancing life at home. As someone who transformed her own journey into a thriving space for connection and growth, Megan has firsthand experience navigating the challenges of entrepreneurship and life. She’s passionate about empowering women to pursue their ambitions unapologetically, sharing relatable advice, actionable strategies, and real-life stories. Through Self StartHER, Megan has cultivated a space where women can find the tools, inspiration, and confidence to thrive in both business and life.Connect with Megan Tobler📎 Instagram: @selfstart.her🌐 Website: www.selfstarther.comThanks for listening. If this episode inspired you in some way, take a screenshot of you listening on your device and post it to your Instagram stories and tag me @ambitiousbookkeeperFor more information about the Ambitious Bookkeeper Podcast or interest in our programs or mentoring visit our resources below:Visit our website: https://www.ambitiousbookkeeper.comFollow the Blog: https://www.ambitiousbookkeeper.com/blogConnect on Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/ambitiousbookkeeperConnect on Threads: https://www.threads.net/@ambitiousbookkeeperConnect on Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/serenashoupcpaThank you for your support of our show. If you haven’t left a review yet it’s super simple. Please go to ambitiousbookkeeper.com/podcast and leave your review.Podcast Publishing Tools we use:Editing → Sabr Media LLC: https://www.iangilliam.com/sabr-media-llcDescript: https://get.descript.com/u7lubkx09073 (affiliate link)Buzzsprout: https://www.buzzsprout.com/?referrer_id=1753696 (affiliate link)

Mar 5, 2025 • 9min
189 | Are There Remote Bookkeeping Opportunities Still?
Send us a textOur MINI episodes are also YouTube videos - and may be better viewed on YouTube. Click here to watch! https://youtu.be/7zH54q8eR6IIn this episode you’ll hear me answer a listener submitted question about the opportunities available in accounting & bookkeeping and how to find the right one for you!Resources mentioned in this episode:The Ultimate Guide to a Profitable Bookkeeping Business: https://ambitiousbookkeeper.com/trainingLeave your questions for me HERE: https://speakpipe.com/ambitiousbookkeeperThanks for listening. If this episode inspired you in some way, take a screenshot of you listening on your device and post it to your Instagram stories and tag me @ambitiousbookkeeperFor more information about the Ambitious Bookkeeper Podcast or interest in our programs or mentoring visit our resources below:Visit our website: https://www.ambitiousbookkeeper.comFollow the Blog: https://www.ambitiousbookkeeper.com/blogConnect on Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/ambitiousbookkeeperConnect on Threads: https://www.threads.net/@ambitiousbookkeeperConnect on Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/serenashoupcpaThank you for your support of our show. If you haven’t left a review yet it’s super simple. Please go to ambitiousbookkeeper.com/podcast and leave your review.Podcast Publishing Tools we use:Editing → Sabr Media LLC: https://www.iangilliam.com/sabr-media-llcDescript: https://get.descript.com/u7lubkx09073 (affiliate link)Buzzsprout: https://www.buzzsprout.com/?referrer_id=1753696 (affiliate link)

Feb 24, 2025 • 50min
188 | How to Become a Better Leader with Alyssa Lang
Send us a textIn this episode, Alyssa Lang, my biz bestie & The Workflow Queen dives into what it truly means to be a great leader, focusing on how to move beyond everyday tasks and really lead your firm.She breaks down five key pillars of leadership that will help you build a scalable, profitable, and well-aligned business. Alyssa shares her personal journey, explaining how shifting your mindset, setting the right offers, creating smooth systems, building a strong company culture, and removing yourself from daily operations can transform your firm.Tune in for heartfelt stories and actionable advice!In this episode you’ll hear:5 key pillars of leadershipresources for becoming a better leaderpersonal journeyResources mentioned in this episode:Removable CEO Workshop *affiliate linkConnect with Alyssa:🌐 Website: workflowqueen.com📱 IG: @workflowqueen🎙️ Podcast: Conquering Workflows & Systems with the Workflow QueenThanks for listening. If this episode inspired you in some way, take a screenshot of you listening on your device and post it to your Instagram stories and tag me @ambitiousbookkeeperFor more information about the Ambitious Bookkeeper Podcast or interest in our programs or mentoring visit our resources below:Visit our website: https://www.ambitiousbookkeeper.comFollow the Blog: https://www.ambitiousbookkeeper.com/blogConnect on Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/ambitiousbookkeeperConnect on Threads: https://www.threads.net/@ambitiousbookkeeperConnect on Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/serenashoupcpaThank you for your support of our show. If you haven’t left a review yet it’s super simple. Please go to ambitiousbookkeeper.com/podcast and leave your review.Podcast Publishing Tools we use:Editing → Sabr Media LLC: https://www.iangilliam.com/sabr-media-llcDescript: https://get.descript.com/u7lubkx09073 (affiliate link)Buzzsprout: https://www.buzzsprout.com/?referrer_id=1753696 (affiliate link)

Feb 19, 2025 • 30min
187 ⎸ How to Handle Sales Tax with Brian Greer of TaxConnex
Send us a textHey there, welcome back to The Ambitious Bookkeeper Podcast! Today, I'm chatting with Brian Greer from TaxConnex about all things sales tax. Whether you're a sales tax newbie or just looking for a way to outsource, we've got you covered. So grab your favorite drink, get comfy, and let's dive into making sales tax a bit less daunting.In this episode you’ll hear:Meet Brian GreerDiscover what "nexus" really means in sales taxLearn about the Wayfair decisionLearn about TaxConnexIf you've ever thought, "Ugh, sales tax is confusing," you're not alone! Brian breaks it down and makes it way less intimidating.Resources mentioned in this episode:TaxConnexShopifyAvalaraTaxJarEarmarkMeet GUESTA graduate of Purdue University, the majority of Brian’s career has been in the sales tax industry. First, joining Tax Partners in 2001 initially managing their alliance channel consisting mainly of Big 4 Accounting Firms. He later led the sales and use tax sales team after the The Thomson Corporation (now known as Thomson Reuters) acquisition in 2005, growing the revenues to multi-million dollar levels. Brian joined TaxConnex™ as a partner in 2010 and currently as the Chief Strategy Officer is focused on partner development, rolling out new products and services, and supporting the sales and marketing teams.Connect with GUEST💼 LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/brian-greer-55b7364/🗞️ Blog: https://www.taxconnex.com/Blog-Thanks for listening. If this episode inspired you in some way, take a screenshot of you listening on your device and post it to your Instagram stories and tag me @ambitiousbookkeeperFor more information about the Ambitious Bookkeeper Podcast or interest in our programs or mentoring visit our resources below:Visit our website: https://www.ambitiousbookkeeper.comFollow the Blog: https://www.ambitiousbookkeeper.com/blogConnect on Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/ambitiousbookkeeperConnect on Threads: https://www.threads.net/@ambitiousbookkeeperConnect on Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/serenashoupcpaThank you for your support of our show. If you haven’t left a review yet it’s super simple. Please go to ambitiousbookkeeper.com/podcast and leave your review.Podcast Publishing Tools we use:Editing → Sabr Media LLC: https://www.iangilliam.com/sabr-media-llcDescript: https://get.descript.com/u7lubkx09073 (affiliate link)Buzzsprout: https://www.buzzsprout.com/?referrer_id=1753696 (affiliate link)


