Show cover of Count Me In®

Count Me In®

IMA® (Institute of Management Accountants) brings you the latest perspectives and learnings on all things affecting the accounting and finance world, as told by the experts working in the field and the thought leaders shaping the profession. Listen in to gain valuable insight and be included in the future of accounting and finance!

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Tune into this episode of Count Me In, where host Adam Larson sits down with Rohit Kharbanda, Head of Hotel Finance Services & Growth at IHG Hotels & Resorts. With a 20+ year career at top companies like Hewlett-Packard, General Electric, and Oracle, Rohit shares vital insights into sustainable sourcing, reducing carbon footprints, and how green practices drive customer loyalty.Get the scoop on the challenges of ESG reporting, the strategic role of finance in sustainability, and the regulatory complexities of AI and data privacy. Rohit's mix of wit and wisdom offers practical advice for anyone curious about how sustainable practices are reshaping business.Don't miss this engaging conversation packed with forward-thinking strategies to protect our planet while achieving business success! Sponsor:Today's episode is brought to you by U.S. Bank. U.S. Bank is a trusted financial partner for our clients, businesses and communities. We believe in doing the right thing and putting people first. It’s an honor to be recognized as one of the World’s Most Ethical Companies® by the Ethisphere Institute for the tenth consecutive year. From commercial credit cards and program management tools to innovative payment technologies and transportation offerings, U.S. Bank Corporate Payment Systems has the right solution to help your organization reduce payment costs, enhance control and streamline your entire payment processing function. We’ll partner with you to uncover your challenges and provide smart, clear and honest guidance to help you meet the financial goals for your business. Visit usbank.com/corporatepayments to learn more.

10/7/24 • 32:01

Join us on this episode of the Count Me In Podcast as Adam Larson sits down with Aaron Levine, the CFO of Prophix, to explore the evolving role of CFOs in today's dynamic business environment. Aaron shares his journey from controller roles at public software companies to leading the finance and accounting departments of several venture and PE-backed businesses. He offers insights on overcoming current challenges in the software space, building trust within teams, and the importance of data governance. Listen in as Aaron discusses hiring strategies, the impact of AI on accounting roles, and the unique experience of working at a company that serves CFOs. Packed with practical advice and candid reflections, this conversation is a must-listen for finance professionals and business leaders alike.

9/30/24 • 27:42

Join host Adam Larson for a captivating conversation with Tevia Hoalst, the dynamic owner and founder of TeKoda Accounting. Tevia shares her inspiring journey from a toxic corporate environment to leading a company with an award-winning culture. Discover the importance of creating a thriving workplace, the role of transparent communication, and some unique team-building ideas like company retreats and virtual offices. If you’re looking to improve your own company culture or are just curious about the behind-the-scenes of a successful business, this episode is a must-listen!

9/23/24 • 27:44

Join Adam Larson as he sits down with Christian Hyatt, co-founder and CEO of risk 3sixty, in this eye-opening episode of the Count Me In. From starting out in the world of public accounting to leading a successful cybersecurity firm, Christian shares his unique journey and offers valuable insights into the complex world of cyber threats. Discover who the real "bad guys" are, the surprising sophistication of criminal organizations, and how businesses can better protect themselves in an increasingly digital world. Perfect for anyone interested in cybersecurity, entrepreneurship, or just looking for an engaging and informative listen. Don't miss out on this fascinating conversation!

9/16/24 • 29:10

In this episode of Count Me In, join host Adam Larson as he sits down with the dynamic Tineke Distelmans, Assistant Professor at Vrije Universiteit Amsterdam, to break down the buzzwords of artificial intelligence and machine learning. Tineke shares eye-opening examples of how we interact with AI daily, from your smartphone's virtual assistant to the algorithms guiding your social media feeds. Hear about her fascinating case study on predicting patient satisfaction in hospitals and how machine learning can drive smarter decisions. Tune in for a casual, yet insightful chat that covers everything you need to know about implementing AI in your own work. Get ready to be inspired by Tineke's wealth of knowledge and practical tips.

9/9/24 • 21:38

Join host Adam Larson as he sits down with Michael Housman, the founder and CEO of AI-ccelerator, who shares his intriguing journey from academia to the dynamic realm of fintech. Michael’s passion for data and coding has taken him from healthcare to HR tech, e-commerce, and now the cutting-edge world of financial technology. They chat about the importance of flexibility in career paths, the transformative power of AI in credit decisions and underwriting, and the game-changers like Brex that are disrupting the fintech market.Michael also dives into the balancing act between human intuition and machine algorithms in fraud detection, offering practical tips for finance and accounting organizations. Whether you’re curious about AI’s impact on jobs or looking for ways to innovate within your own company, this conversation is packed with insights and real-world examples. Tune in for a thought-provoking discussion that’s both approachable and enlightening!

9/2/24 • 33:42

In this compelling episode of Count Me In, your host Adam Larson sits down with the dynamic Nicky Billou—podcaster, coach, and President and CEO of eCircle Academy. Nicky passionately speaks with a heartfelt nod to his father's teachings; he explores how seeing the greatness in others can restore faith in humanity.Tune in as Nicky discusses the transformative power of authentic storytelling and how meaningful life experiences shape true thought leadership. Discover his motivational stories, like helping entrepreneurs shift their messaging to achieve incredible success and supporting individuals in reaching their dreams.Feel the emotional impact of Julie's journey—a professional who turned her life around with Nicky’s guidance, leading to personal and financial victories, and even touching her family deeply. Learn what drives Nicky to keep making such a profound difference in people's lives.If you're looking for inspiration, wisdom, and a hearty dose of authenticity, this episode is not to be missed!

8/26/24 • 31:48

Join us on Count Me In for an enlightening and engaging conversation with Callum Liang, author of "Boardroom Blueprint." In this episode, host Adam Larson sits down with Callum to uncover why accountants and business professionals should aim for board positions to supercharge their careers and personal growth.Callum shares his insights on what companies look for in a stellar board member and reveals the real, often hidden, pathways to landing a board seat. From leveraging LinkedIn to setting up advisory boards, Callum offers practical advice on building a compelling personal profile and making valuable connections that can change the trajectory of your career.Whether you’re an aspiring board member or simply looking to up your professional game, this episode is packed with actionable tips and authentic stories. Don’t miss out on the chance to learn from one of the best in the business. Be sure to check out Callum’s book and connect with him on LinkedIn after you listen!

8/19/24 • 32:11

Don't miss this insightful conversation with Frank Tumminello, CEO of FileForms, as he breaks down the complexities of the Corporate Transparency Act. With millions of companies facing new reporting requirements, Frank shares his expertise on who needs to file, what information is required, and the potential consequences of non-compliance. He also discusses the importance of secure data management, and the role technology can play in simplifying the filing process. This episode is a must-listen to navigate the changing landscape of corporate transparency. 

8/12/24 • 29:08

In this exciting episode of Count Me In, Adam Larson sits down with Mike Wallace, the Chief Decarbonization Officer at Persefoni AI. Four years after his last insightful appearance, Mike returns to discuss the evolving landscape of carbon accounting and the critical role of the Chief Decarbonization Officer.Tune in as Mike and Adam explore why carbon accounting has become increasingly important for today’s finance professionals and the real-world impact of precise carbon measurement in various industries. Mike shares fascinating stories from the field, the challenges of transitioning from spreadsheets to automated systems, and offers practical advice for small to medium-sized businesses looking to stay ahead in the carbon accounting game.Get ready for an engaging conversation packed with expert insights, practical advice, and forward-thinking strategies from one of the leading voices in ESG and decarbonization. Whether you’re a seasoned accountant or just curious about the future of sustainable practices, this episode is a must-listen!

8/5/24 • 29:33

Join host Adam Larson on this insightful episode of Count Me In Podcast as he sits down with Corey Noyek, Vice President of Finance & Operations at Cardata. Corey shares his passion for breaking down silos and fostering an environment where diverse perspectives thrive. Tune in to hear practical strategies for improving communication between departments, navigating the challenges presented by virtual work, and leveraging technology responsibly. Corey also offers valuable tips on maintaining a curiosity mindset, asking the right questions, and ensuring every team member feels heard. Whether you're a manager looking to boost your team's cohesion or just curious about improving workplace dynamics, this episode is packed with actionable advice and engaging conversation. Don't miss it!

7/29/24 • 26:51

Join Adam Larson as he chats with Luke Deka, the Chief Executive Officer and Founder of Growbots, about overcoming outbound sales challenges in small and medium-sized businesses. Luke shares his wealth of expertise, offering practical advice for accountants looking to move beyond referrals and confidently approach outbound sales.In this episode, you’ll learn:How to transition from referral-based growth to proactive outreachEffective techniques to stand out in today's digital marketplaceThe role of AI in enhancing outbound sales effortsStrategies for personalizing your message and measuring successLuke provides real-world examples and actionable steps to help elevate your sales game. Whether you’re an experienced accountant or just starting out, this episode is packed with valuable insights to help you scale your business.

7/22/24 • 26:34

Get ready for an engaging conversation with Adam Larson and special guest Pooja Sund, Engineering Finance Leader at Microsoft, on this episode of Count Me In! Pooja, a finance and AI expert, breaks down the fascinating differences between AI and traditional programming, shedding light on how AI is revolutionizing the financial industry.From risk management and fraud reduction to personalization and sentiment analysis, discover how AI can be a game-changer for your business. Plus, learn about the crucial aspects of security, privacy, and bias when implementing AI solutions. Whether you're a business leader, finance professional, or tech enthusiast, you won't want to miss this insightful episode packed with practical takeaways and future-forward thinking.Tune in and supercharge your understanding of AI's potential in today's dynamic landscape!

7/15/24 • 25:38

Join host Adam Larson as he sits down with data integrity expert and author, Jane Sarah Lat, to uncover essential insights from her book, Managing Data Integrity for Finance. Jane breaks down the critical concepts of data integrity and data quality, using relatable analogies and real-world applications.In this episode, Jane shares the importance of maintaining accurate and reliable data in today's tech-driven finance landscape. She highlights the tools and techniques that can elevate your data game, including Google Sheets, Microsoft Excel, powerful business intelligence tools like Power BI and Tableau, and the advanced Amazon Quantum Ledger Database.But that's not all! Jane also touches on the exciting rise of generative AI and its potential impacts on data integrity. Whether you’re a finance professional looking to upskill or just a curious learner, this episode is packed with practical tips and valuable insights. Don’t miss out—tune in and elevate your understanding of data integrity today!

7/8/24 • 14:27

Get ready for an inspiring journey on this episode of Count Me In! Join host Adam Larson as he sits down with Brett Kelly, the dynamic founder of Kelly Partners. From his humble beginnings in Australia to building a global accounting firm with offices in Los Angeles, Hong Kong, and Mumbai, Brett shares his extraordinary story of resilience, ambition, and the power of self-education. Discover how Brett turned adversity into opportunity, spoke to 80 prominent Australians, and self-published a best-selling book that skyrocketed his career. With captivating insights and practical advice, Brett emphasizes the importance of finding your true mission, surrounding yourself with the right people, and making a meaningful impact. Tune in and get inspired to follow your passion and leave a lasting legacy. Don't miss out on this engaging conversation that's bound to ignite your own drive for success!

7/1/24 • 25:33

Join host Adam Larson as he welcomes Jean Pierre Rukebesha, Co-Founder and CEO of Rukbe Tech, in an episode that highlights the seamless blend of accounting expertise and tech innovation. Jean Pierre shares his inspiring journey from growing up in Rwanda to becoming a pioneering entrepreneur in Canada. Discover how his background in accounting led him to create groundbreaking technological solutions for small businesses.Jean Pierre’s story is filled with insightful anecdotes, hard-earned lessons, and actionable advice for aspiring entrepreneurs and tech enthusiasts alike. Tune in to hear about the power of financial literacy, the importance of finding your "why," and navigating the rapidly evolving landscape of digital technology. Whether you're a seasoned business owner or just starting, this episode promises valuable takeaways wrapped in an engaging conversation.

6/24/24 • 28:17

Join us for a spirited conversation with Bruce Ditman, Chief Growth Officer at Trigger and Managing Partner at Chiefseconds.com, who shoots down the myth of the "secret sauce" in the world of success. In this lively episode of the Count Me In Podcast, host Adam Larson engages Bruce in a straightforward yet thought-provoking dialogue about the allure of complexity, sales wisdom, and the real keys to excellence. From hilarious wing-eating analogies to hard-hitting truths about behavioral changes, Bruce brings his unique perspective and energy. Whether you're a marketing professional, a leader, or someone just looking to simplify your path to success, this episode is packed with actionable insights and a good dose of humor. Tune in for a refreshingly honest look at what it really takes to achieve your goals!

6/17/24 • 25:59

Join Adam Larson in this enlightening episode of the Count Me In Podcast as he chats with Gaby Lahoud, CEO at B Certified Pro and a seasoned certification exam expert with a passion for helping exam takers succeed. Gaby shares invaluable tips on how to go beyond rote memorization and truly understand exam material, which is a game-changer for any certification exam. From tactical strategies like prioritizing easy questions and using consistent answers for the unknowns, to deeper insights on overcoming psychological barriers like doubt and test anxiety, Gaby covers it all.He also offers practical advice on integrating study sessions into a busy schedule, preparing with full-length practice exams, and maintaining a confident mindset. As they discuss everything from pacing during exams to making smart food and drink choices, you'll gain a wealth of knowledge to help you tackle your exams with confidence. Tune in and let Gaby's expertise guide you to exam success!

6/10/24 • 30:00

Join host Adam Larson as he chats with Jeremy Bryant on the Count Me In Podcast in a refreshing and insightful conversation. Hear about Jeremy's inspiring journey from accounting to entrepreneurship, real estate, and his latest venture, No Story Lost. Get ready for engaging stories and valuable insights straight from the guest himself.Count me in listeners can receive a special discount by going to nostorylost.com and entering the code Podcast2024 for 2 free books.  

6/3/24 • 24:09

Join us for an insightful episode of Count Me In as Adam Larson sits down with the authors of the 2023 Curt Verschoor Ethics Feature of the Year, Dana Hermanson and Douglas Boyle. Dana, the Dinos Eminent Scholar Chair of Private Enterprise and professor of accounting at Kennesaw State University, and Douglas, professor and department chair in accounting at the Kania School of Management at the University of Scranton, share from their award-winning article. In this episode, they introduce the Fraud Prevention Pyramid, a crucial framework with five stages to help professionals build resilience against fraud.Dana offers practical advice on preparing for and defending against pressure in the accounting world, while Doug emphasizes the role of emotional intelligence in recognizing and mitigating fraud risks. Discover tips on navigating ethical dilemmas, avoiding common pitfalls, and the importance of skepticism in today's tech-driven landscape. Whether you're an accounting student or a seasoned professional, this episode is packed with valuable insights to enhance your fraud prevention acumen and ensure integrity in your financial reporting. Tune in for a conversation that's both enlightening and essential for anyone in the field of finance and accounting!

5/27/24 • 33:55

Join us for a compelling episode of the Count Me In Podcast, where our host Adam Larson welcomes Howard Chang, CEO of Just Meeting Rooms and a beacon of resilience and entrepreneurial spirit. In this open-hearted discussion, Howard recounts his rollercoaster journey through personal and professional upheavals, including bankruptcy at 29 and overcoming cancer. Learn about Howard’s approach to redefining failure, leveraging lessons from sports for business success, and the pivotal role of resilience in his comeback story. We’ll explore how Howard transformed challenges into opportunities with innovative ventures like Just Meeting Rooms. His insights on managing risk, embracing imperfections, and the power of authenticity will inspire anyone navigating their own hurdles. Don’t miss this episode where wisdom and motivation meet real-life triumphs and trials.

5/20/24 • 29:39

Tune into this compelling episode of Count Me In with guest Srinath Ganesan, the Director of Finance & Risk Solutions at SAP. Srinath unpacks the transformative role of AI in finance, presenting it as both an enabler and a crucial tool for ethical considerations. With a wealth of experience, he brings practical insights, discussing how AI streamlines processes like financial reporting and influences investment decisions. Hosted by Adam Larson, this engaging discussion is perfect for finance professionals, and anyone interested in the ethical integration of technology in finance. Don't miss these expert insights to navigate the evolving intersection of AI and finance with confidence.

5/13/24 • 24:15

Celebrate International Management Accounting Day with a special episode of the Count Me In Podcast, featuring an enlightening discussion between two esteemed guests: Travis Willard, Senior Vice President of Product and Innovation at IMA, and Susie Duong, Director of Research at IMA, bringing unique perspectives on the integration of AI into accounting and finance.As they exchange insights on how artificial intelligence is reshaping the landscape of talent retention and career development, listeners will uncover cutting-edge strategies to stay ahead in an ever-evolving field. This episode is a perfect salute to the day that honors the significance of management accounting, providing actionable intelligence for professionals eager to navigate an AI-driven business environment. Tune in for an engaging conversation that marks International Management Accounting Day with forward-thinking dialogue and expert analysis on the Count Me In Podcast.

5/7/24 • 11:38

In this captivating episode of the Count Me In Podcast, we sit down with Timothy Wingate, EA, the knowledgeable founder and president of G+F Business & Financial Consulting LLC. Wingate unravels the tangled web of communications within finance and back office teams, especially within the construction sector. He shares indispensable strategies for leveraging technology to improve these crucial interactions and ensures financial information remains both accessible and secure.Hear how real-time project management and meticulous bookkeeping are game-changers for cash flow and project success. Wingate, with his expertise, also discusses the art of building trust with clients, fostering an environment of truth and growth. Whether you’re navigating the financial underpinnings of your company or looking to streamline communication, this episode offers a treasure trove of insights for business professionals eager to drive their organizations forward.

5/6/24 • 26:15

If productivity puzzles have you stumped, tune in to an enlightening episode of the Count Me In Podcast with host Adam Larson and special guest, Nicolas Kopp, the entrepreneurial force behind Rillet. In this candid conversation, Nicolas unveils critical tips to streamline your workday, break free from the quagmire of meetings, and leverage cutting-edge tools to boost efficiency. Whether you're a business owner or a corporate team player, you'll discover strategies to cut through the clutter and optimize your operations. Nicolas's pragmatic approach, combined with actionable steps tailored for any work environment, will leave you equipped and enthused to transform your approach to productivity. Join us for a session brimming with insights from a tech leader's perspective, all here on Count Me In. Hit play and prepare for progress!

4/29/24 • 26:05

Explore the transformative power of AI in finance with Nicolas Boucher, founder of the AI Finance Club, in this captivating episode of the Count Me In Podcast. Host Adam Larson engages with Nicolas in a lively discussion on the integration of AI with financial practices, demonstrating how it simplifies processes and elevates efficiency.Nicolas sheds light on practical AI applications, from automating data analysis to revolutionizing customer interactions, and he stresses the importance of upskilling for the digital age. Plus, get a glimpse into the collaborative learning experience offered by the AI Finance Club.Perfect for finance professionals eager to embrace AI or those fascinated by the evolution of the sector, this episode is packed with actionable insights from a leading expert in the field. Tune in for a riveting conversation that will leave you inspired and ready for the AI era in finance.

4/22/24 • 28:24

Join Adam Larson on Count Me In for a riveting session with Chris Papin, owner of Papin CPA, as we explore the ins and outs of being a trusted advisor in the ever-evolving business world. Chris, who also brings a wealth of knowledge from the legal and insurance sectors, shares his first-hand experience on building trust with clients and making ethical decisions during times of uncertainty, such as the challenges presented by COVID-19.Listen in as Chris provides actionable advice for small business owners, breaks down complex financial decisions with ease, and discusses the importance of clear, forward-thinking strategies. From the ethics of managing COVID loans to why saying 'no' to clients can be just as important as saying 'yes,' this episode is packed with golden nuggets of wisdom for anyone looking to navigate the professional landscape with honesty and strategic savvy.

4/15/24 • 31:03

In this exciting episode of Count Me In, host Adam Larson chats with two Vice Presidents at RGP, Ellen Class and Janis Parthun. RGP is a global consulting firm known for catalyzing swift business outcomes through transformative change. They share insider tips on transforming your financial close process from a marathon to a sprint and discuss the power of cutting-edge technology to streamline your operations.Ellen Class will captivate you with her first-hand experience on enhancing efficiency and revealing the aftereffects, such as boosting work-life balance. Then, Janis Parthun, a maestro of project execution, layers in her expertise on leadership and strategy to paint a full picture of finance transformation.Whether you’re looking to overhaul your department or just fine-tune it, this episode of Count Me In is brimming with high-impact strategies from RPG's top minds to recharge your financial operations. Tune in for a session full of actionable advice that could set your company on a course for success.

4/8/24 • 31:51

Ready for a breakthrough in your career journey? Join host Adam Larson on Count Me In for a riveting session with Linda Muneka, Vice President, Management Resources Practice Group, and Ai Ling Lee, Vice President Permanent Placement, both from the esteemed Robert Half. With Linda's and Ai Ling's rich backgrounds at Robert Half, they're here to share expert-level insights into the professional world. From fighting off imposter syndrome with a positive mindset to keeping a professional scrapbook of accomplishments—this chat has it covered. We're diving deep into personal branding—not just why it matters, but how to fine-tune it to your professional advancement. Linda and Ai Ling are pros at turning self-doubts into self-assurance—getting real about confidence and growth.More than just tips and stories, today’s episode is brimming with strategies straight from the offices of career experts. You won't just listen; you'll engage with a conversation that could reshape the way you present yourself and your skills.Press play and step into a session that's all about empowering your career narrative and shining in your next job interview.

3/25/24 • 36:35

Welcome to the Count Me In Podcast! Join host Adam Larson and special guest Donna Serdula, founder of Vision Board Media, a professional branding company, as they dive into the world of leveraging LinkedIn for finance and accounting professionals. In this episode, Donna shares valuable insights on making the most of your online presence and building meaningful connections in the finance industry. So grab a cup of coffee and join us for an engaging discussion on boosting your professional brand on LinkedIn!

3/11/24 • 28:58