

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

Feb 28, 2024 • 38min
139 ⎸ CPA Exam Success with Dawn Edelstein
Send us a textIn this interview episode I chat with Dawn Edelstein, CPA Exam Success Coach, all about the keys to CPA exam success. From mindset to study methods, this episode is filled with practical advice to help you excel in your CPA exam journey. So grab your notebook and get ready to take some notes!In this episode you’ll hear:The 3 Pillars of CPA Exam SuccessThe S.T.A.R. Framework for studyingFree resources & support for CPA Exam CandidatesPlanning & time managementResources mentioned in this episode:CPA Exam Success Checklist: cpaexamsuccess.ck.page/checklistGet all of Dawn’s FREE resources here: linktr.ee/miamicoachconnectionMeet DawnFrench teacher turned CPA Exam Success Coach. After teaching high school French for seven years I took my first accounting course. I wanted to be a bookkeeper. I thought that would be better than the classroom. It was suggested to me to become a CPA. I said OK without thinking through the work involved. I then completed a 15-month dual degree graduate program for career-changers in order to get all of the credits needed to sit for the CPA exam. After 15 months, I was eligible to sit for the CPA exam, but I was terrified, confused, and thought I was the only one who felt this way. It wasn’t until years later that I found my Unique Study System and finally made it to the CPA Exam finish line. I did this in a way that allowed me to successfully study for the CPA Exam while simultaneously having a full and fulfilling life. I now help struggling candidates to do the same. I help them to ditch the stress, struggle, and sacrifice and, instead, pass the CPA Exam with confidence and ease.Connect with Dawn📱 IG: @cpaexamsuccess📱 Linktree with FREE resources: https://linktr.ee/miamicoachconnection📋 CPA Exam Success Checklist: cpaexamsuccess.ck.page/checklistThanks 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: ambitiousbookkeeper.comFollow the Blog: ambitiousbookkeeper.com/blogConnect on Instagram: instagram.com/ambitiousbookkeeperConnect on LinkedIn: Linkedin.com/in/SerenaShoupConnect on Facebook: 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: https://www.ambitiousbookkeeper.com/podcast and leave your review.Podcast Publishing Tools we use:Podcast Editing: Sabr Media LLCDescript (affiliate link)Buzzsprout (affiliate link)

Feb 21, 2024 • 37min
138 ⎸ How to hire A-Team players with Lesley Pyle (hiremymom.com)
Send us a textIn this interview episode, I chat with CEO & Founder of HireMyMom.com and hear about her story working from home for the past 20+ years. We dive into lots of good stuff around hiring for your bookkeeping business, you don’t want to miss this episode!In this episode you’ll hear:How & when to hire help for your Bookkeeping FirmTips for a successful job postOnboarding TipsHiring resources that HireMyMom.com offersLesley’s tip for Bookkeepers to add more value to their clientsResources mentioned in this episode:HireMyMom.comTop 10 Interview Questions To AskFinding the best candidate for a job requires that you do your homework in advance. Part of that is asking the right questions and making sure you get thorough answers. https://mailchi.mp/hiremymom/top-10-interview-questions-to-askMeet Lesley:Lesley Pyle is the Founder and CEO of HireMyMom.com, a service connecting Small Businesses with Virtual Professionals across the country since 2007. Pyle began her work from home journey in 1995 after having her first child and started her first online business in 1996 - HBWM.com. She serves on the Board of Directors for Mighty Oaks Foundation and is a contributing writer to Entrepreneur.com. She and her family reside in Texas.Connect with Lesley:📱 IG: http://instagram.com/hiremymom💼 LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/lspencerpyle/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: ambitiousbookkeeper.comFollow the Blog: ambitiousbookkeeper.com/blogConnect on Instagram: instagram.com/ambitiousbookkeeperConnect on LinkedIn: Linkedin.com/in/SerenaShoupConnect on Facebook: 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: https://www.ambitiousbookkeeper.com/podcast and leave your review.Podcast Publishing Tools we use:Podcast Editing: Sabr Media LLCDescript (affiliate link)Buzzsprout (affiliate link)

Feb 14, 2024 • 34min
137 ⎸ Finish your website in a week with Tia Taylor
Send us a textIn this interview episode, I’m bringing Tia (my first hire!) back on to talk about all things WEBSITE DESIGN! Plus, Tia gives us a sneak peek at her new course - Squarespace for Bookkeepers. If your website has been a pain point for you in your business journey, then you’ll definitely wanna tune in!In this episode you’ll hear:the most important aspect of your websitethe 3 things google NEEDS about your websitewhat google likes (dynamic content)Resources mentioned in this episode:Squarespace: https://squarespace.syuh.net/mgraq1 (affiliate link)Acuity: https://squarespace.syuh.net/c/3218064/1933284/9084 (affiliate link)Squarespace for Bookkeepers Waitlist (Tia’s new course - Get it at the Pre-Sale price of $197 until 2/21/24!): https://www.riledupgoats.com/ssfb1-1 Website or Design with Tia: https://www.riledupgoats.com/The Bookkeeping Business Accelerator®: https://www.ambitiousbookkeeper.com/bbaMeet TiaTia is a multi-talented mom of two, hailing from Idaho. She enjoys puzzles (like any good bookkeeper) and is quite crafty! She plays the role of both Graphic Designer and Bookkeeper for Ambitious Bookkeeper and Of Course Bookkeeping. She brings over a decade of experience working in both the design and accounting realms and loves blending aesthetics and organizational systems.Connect with Tia🌐 Website: https://www.riledupgoats.com/📱 IG: @riledupgoats💻 NEW Squarespace for Bookkeepers (Waitlist): https://www.riledupgoats.com/ssfbThanks 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: ambitiousbookkeeper.comFollow the Blog: ambitiousbookkeeper.com/blogConnect on Instagram: instagram.com/ambitiousbookkeeperConnect on LinkedIn: Linkedin.com/in/SerenaShoupConnect on Facebook: 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: https://www.ambitiousbookkeeper.com/podcast and leave your review.Podcast Publishing Tools we use:Podcast Editing: Sabr Media LLCDescript (affiliate link)Buzzsprout (affiliate link)

Feb 7, 2024 • 28min
136 ⎸ The BEST Bank for Clients: Relay - with Deanna Zubrickas
Send us a textIn this interview episode, I’m chatting with Deanna Zubrickas, a product specialist at Relay. We dive into the challenges with traditional banking methods, the partnership between Relay and Profit First, and the revamped partner program that offers exciting opportunities for bookkeepers and accountants!In this episode you’ll hear:The new Relay Partner ProgramHow to position and convert clients to RelayAll the things I love about RelayProfit First Friendly BankResources mentioned in this episode:Become a Relay PartnerMeet DeannaDeanna Zubrickas works directly with Relay’s Partners, accountants and bookkeepers, helping them deliver superior business banking to their clients. Deanna a certified Profit First Professional and is the go-to product expert for business banking solutions and banking integrations with accounting software. Before making the move into financial technology, Deanna supervised retail operations and managed customer relations at a number of enterprise and mid-sized retail brands, including OAK + FORT, Free People, and Urban Outfitters.Connect with Deanna:📧 Email: deanna@relayfi.com📱 X: https://twitter.com/bankwithrelay📱 IG: https://instagram.com/bankwithrelay📱 LinkedIn: https://linkedin.com/company/bankwithrelayDislcaimer: Relay is a financial technology company, not an FDIC-insured bank. Banking services and FDIC insurance provided through Thread Bank; Member FDIC. The Relay Visa® Debit Card is issued by Thread Bank pursuant to a license from Visa U.S.A. Inc. and may be used everywhere Visa® debit cards are accepted.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: ambitiousbookkeeper.comFollow the Blog: ambitiousbookkeeper.com/blogConnect on Instagram: instagram.com/ambitiousbookkeeperConnect on LinkedIn: Linkedin.com/in/SerenaShoupConnect on Facebook: 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: https://www.ambitiousbookkeeper.com/podcast and leave your review.Podcast Publishing Tools we use:Podcast Editing: Sabr Media LLCDescript (affiliate link)Buzzsprout (affiliate link)

Feb 5, 2024 • 5min
MINI Ep 8 | How to handle client banks that don’t integrate
Send us a textRecord a question for me to answer on the podcast here: speakpipe.com/ambitiousbookkeeperIn this minisode, I get into how to handle client banks that don’t integrate with Xero or Quickbooks. Learn when it makes sense to turn away a client, what to say to clients when this issue arises, and why we love Relay.Resources mentioned:RelayLearn how to start your bookkeeping business (for experienced bookkeepers & accountants): https://www.ambitiousbookkeeper.com/bbaBecome a Bookkeeper: https://www.katieferro.com/a/38894/2PQNgtvv (affiliate link)Grab the FREE Start your Bookkeeping Biz Checklist: https://www.ambitiousbookkeeper.com/checklistGrab my FREE New Client Onboarding Templates: https://www.ambitiousbookkeeper.com/onboardBecome a Client: ofcoursebookkeeping.com/contactVisit our website: ambitiousbookkeeper.comFollow the Blog: ambitiousbookkeeper.com/blogConnect on Instagram: instagram.com/ambitiousbookkeeperConnect on LinkedIn: Linkedin.com/in/SerenaShoupConnect on Facebook: Facebook.com/serenashoupcpaPodcast Publishing Tools we use:Podcast Editing: Sabr Media LLCDescript (affiliate link)Buzzsprout (affiliate link)

Jan 31, 2024 • 19min
135 ⎸ What’s so great about The Bookkeeping Business Accelerator®️?
Send us a textThis is a very special episode, where you get to hear from current and past VIP students inside of the Bookkeeping Business Accelerator! If you’ve wanted to know what has been the biggest help/game changer for my students, tune in to this one to find out!In this episode you’ll hear:an in-depth look at the program’s curriculumexclusive VIP perksall the personalized support that comes with BBA VIPwhy this program is a game-changer for bookkeepers and accountants who want to start or grow their businessResources mentioned in this episode:The Bookkeeping Business Accelerator® ⎸ VIP: https://www.ambitiousbookkeeper.com/vipThanks 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: ambitiousbookkeeper.comFollow the Blog: ambitiousbookkeeper.com/blogConnect on Instagram: instagram.com/ambitiousbookkeeperConnect on LinkedIn: Linkedin.com/in/SerenaShoupConnect on Facebook: 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: https://www.ambitiousbookkeeper.com/podcast and leave your review.Podcast Publishing Tools we use:Podcast Editing: Sabr Media LLCDescript (affiliate link)Buzzsprout (affiliate link)

Jan 24, 2024 • 30min
134 ⎸ How to grow a multi six-figure business
Send us a textIn this solo episode, I delve into the complexities of growing a multi six-figure business and share insights on efficiency, workflow management, and hiring strategies crucial for business scalability.In this episode you’ll hear:the importance of narrowing your focus of servicestips for creating processes & systems in your businessthe relationship between your niche & your marketing effortshow to evaluate your profit marginsResources mentioned in this episode:Planning for Profit episode: ambitiousbookkeeper.com/blog/129Asana for creating your workflow: https://asana.com/productLoom for creating SOPs: https://www.loom.com/Tango for creating SOPs: https://www.tango.us/The 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: ambitiousbookkeeper.comFollow the Blog: ambitiousbookkeeper.com/blogConnect on Instagram: instagram.com/ambitiousbookkeeperConnect on LinkedIn: Linkedin.com/in/SerenaShoupConnect on Facebook: 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: https://www.ambitiousbookkeeper.com/podcast and leave your review.Podcast Publishing Tools we use:Podcast Editing: Sabr Media LLCDescript (affiliate link)Buzzsprout (affiliate link)

Jan 17, 2024 • 8min
133 ⎸ Starting a Bookkeeping Business with no Experience [re-air]
Send us a textThis week, I’m re-airing a solo episode where I chat about how I recommend going about starting a bookkeeping business without any experience in bookkeeping.In this episode you’ll hear:topics any bookkeeper should knowwhere to startwhat it takes to be a business ownerRecommended programs:Bookkeeper Launch for learning bookkeeping in QBO (affiliate link)Become a Bookkeeper for learning bookkeeping in Xero (affiliate link)Kickoff with Asana for setting up your bookkeeping workflow (affiliate link)AIPB Certification to become a Certified BookkeeperAlyssa Lang’s Breakthrough coaching program for experienced bookkeepers and accountants who are ready to take their firm to the next levelThanks 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: ambitiousbookkeeper.comFollow the Blog: ambitiousbookkeeper.com/blogConnect on Instagram: instagram.com/ambitiousbookkeeperConnect on LinkedIn: Linkedin.com/in/SerenaShoupConnect on Facebook: 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: https://www.ambitiousbookkeeper.com/podcast and leave your review.Podcast Publishing Tools we use:Podcast Editing: Sabr Media LLCDescript (affiliate link)Buzzsprout (affiliate link)

Jan 10, 2024 • 22min
132 ⎸ What a bookkeeper does
Send us a textHave you ever wondered what a bookkeeper should be doing every month for clientsWhat about what a successful daily structure looks like?Well, these are two questions I’ll be diving into today on the podcast.I recently put a call out to the listener audience to submit questions you’d like answered on the podcast. You can still submit questions, either via email: support@ambitiousbookkeeper.com or by recording a question on Speakpipe!In this episode you’ll hear:What AP & AR entailsHow to setup your day for successIf you should offer AP, AR and PayrollThe bare minimum every bookkeeper should be doingResources mentioned in this episode:GustoHubdocQBOXeroAcuityCalendlyPlanning your Bookkeeping Work podcast episodeBookkeeping Biz WorkshopsThanks 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: ambitiousbookkeeper.comFollow the Blog: ambitiousbookkeeper.com/blogConnect on Instagram: instagram.com/ambitiousbookkeeperConnect on LinkedIn: Linkedin.com/in/SerenaShoupConnect on Facebook: 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: https://www.ambitiousbookkeeper.com/podcast and leave your review.Podcast Publishing Tools we use:Podcast Editing: Sabr Media LLCDescript (affiliate link)Buzzsprout (affiliate link)

Jan 3, 2024 • 37min
131 | How to setup books for Real Estate Investors with Nick Baldo
Send us a textIn this interview episode, I’m chatting with Nick Baldo, Real Estate Investor & Online Educator, about how bookkeeping needs to be setup and the various nuances of real estate investment businesses. As a bonus at the end, we chat about his Youtube strategy.In this episode you’ll hear:Biggest mistake real estate bookkeepers make3 things to make sure you do when bookkeeping for real estatewhy the balance sheet is so important for real estate investorsbonus: content marketing with youtube tipsResources mentioned in this episode:Real Estate Accounting Bootcamp; https://www.incomedigs.com/reab (Coupon Code: AB50 for $50 off)Builder Books Academy: https://www.incomedigs.com/bba (Coupon Code: AB50 for $50 off)About our guest:Nick Baldo is a real estate investor, home builder and online educator. Nick left his six-figure consulting job to pursue a life of entrepreneurship. While building his investing portfolio and remodeling businesses, he began to develop processes and systems to help his businesses grow and scale. He eventually started sharing his strategies with likeminded business owners via YouTube and one-on-one coaching. Nick currently runs his online education business, Income Digs, to help Real Estate Investors and their Bookkeepers leverage technology so that they can live of a life of freedom and purpose. Nick lives in Buffalo, NY with his wife, Meghan and his daughter Juliet (soon to be two daughters!)Connect with Nick:📱 Youtube: https://www.youtube.com/incomedigs🌐 Website: https://www.incomedigs.com/💻 Builder Books Academy: https://www.incomedigs.com/bba (Coupon Code: AB50 for $50 off)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: ambitiousbookkeeper.comFollow the Blog: ambitiousbookkeeper.com/blogConnect on Instagram: instagram.com/ambitiousbookkeeperConnect on LinkedIn: Linkedin.com/in/SerenaShoupConnect on Facebook: 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: https://www.ambitiousbookkeeper.com/podcast and leave your review.Podcast Publishing Tools we use:Podcast Editing: Sabr Media LLCDescript (affiliate link)Buzzsprout (affiliate link)


