

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

Mar 27, 2024 • 11min
141 | [Q&A] Podcast Interviewing for Bookkeepers
Send us a textIn this Q&A episode, I share insights on how to pitch yourself for podcast interviews and what topics to cover. You'll learn how to set yourself apart, deliver compelling content, and utilize real-life client experiences to engage and educate your audience. Tune in and take notes as I walk you through the do's and don'ts of podcast pitching & interviewing.In this episode you’ll hear:Pitching Yourself for Podcast InterviewsOvercoming Imposter SyndromeDeveloping Engaging Content and Speaking SkillsResources mentioned in this episode:Episode with Shannon Weinstein - Growing your business through podcastingThanks 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)

Mar 20, 2024 • 21min
140 | [Q&A] Help! My leads aren't converting!
Send us a textIn this episode I give advice and insights on various topics related to running a bookkeeping business, attracting and converting clients, pricing strategies, marketing tactics, engaging with prospects, handling follow-ups, and more.In this episode you’ll hear:When to follow up with leadsWhat to do when someone ghosts you after a DiagnosticMessaging for the clients you want to attractMarketing ideasResources mentioned in this episode:Diagnostic Review MiniCourseThe Bookkeeping Business Accelerator®ManyChat - for driving traffic from your socials to your website/productsDubsado (affiliate link)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 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)


