The Ambitious Bookkeeper Podcast

Send us a textIn this episode of the Ambitious Bookkeeper Podcast, Serena chats with Maggie Lord, a powerhouse entrepreneur who sold her media company to David's Bridal and now helps female founders do the same. Maggie shares her journey from starting a wedding blog in 2008 to selling her company 12 years later, and reveals insider knowledge about business valuations, exit strategies, and how bookkeepers play a crucial role in preparing businesses for sale.In this episode you’ll hear:Why Maggie is passionate about helping female founders prepare their businesses for acquisitionThe three common scenarios when founders seek M&A helpHow bookkeepers play a key role in successful M&A transactionsBeyond-the-numbers valuation factors that founders often overlookResources mentioned in this episode:The Whisper Group: https://www.wearethewhispergroup.com/Meet MaggieMaggie Lord was an early pioneer in the online digital wedding media space establishing her media company, Rustic Wedding Chic in 2008. As the founder + CEO of Rustic Wedding Chic, Maggie led the company for 12 years before it was acquired by David’s Bridal in 2020. Maggie is also the author of 6 books. Today, Maggie has become a sought-after strategic advisor to female founded brands allowing her to focus on sharing her knowledge and expertise with other like minded entrepreneurs, startups and small businesses. Maggie and her businesses have been featured in Forbes, The New York Times, Business Insider, Success Magazine and much more. Maggie is a partner at The Whisper Group, working daily with female founders to help them sell their companies and close the exit gap.Connect with Maggie📱 IG: https://www.instagram.com/maggielordandcompany/🌐 Website: https://maggielord.com/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)

Send us a textAre you dreaming of starting your own bookkeeping business but feeling overwhelmed by all the decisions you need to make? You're not alone. As someone who's built a successful bookkeeping practice from scratch, I know firsthand that figuring out what services to offer, how to price them, where to find clients, and what technology you need can feel like navigating a maze.In this episode you’ll hear:Advice on determining pricing strategies for bookkeeping servicesPractical methods for finding clientsRecommendations for essential tech tools for new bookkeepersWhat bookkeeping services are most in-demand and how to decide which ones to offerResources mentioned in this episode:Ambitious Bookkeeper Free Training: http://www.ambitiousbookkeeper.com/trainingMini Courses: http://www.ambitiousbookkeeper.com/storePricing for ProfitBookkeeping Client CloserBookkeeping Business Accelerator: http://www.ambitiousbookkeeper.com/bbaSoftware tools mentioned: QuickBooksXeroShopifyTaxJarA2XHubdocCalendlyGoogle Suite/WorkspaceZoomLoomAsanaCanvaDubsadoThanks 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)

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

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)

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)

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)

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)

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)

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)

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)