CPA Trendlines Podcasts

“Politics affects tax laws, compliance, and financial decisions. We can’t afford to ignore it."  Transformation TalksWith Donny ShimamotoCenter for Accounting TransformationPolitics and business have always been intertwined, but today’s climate of deep division presents new challenges for accounting professionals. Whether discussing tax policy, compliance, or broader economic issues, accountants often find themselves in conversations that can quickly become contentious. MORE TRANSFORMATION TALKSIn a recent episode of Transformation Talks, host Donny Shimamoto, CPA.CITP, CGMA leads a discussion with Brian Tankersley, CPA.CITP, CGMA; Ron Baker, CPA (inactive), and Amy Welch, APR, CAE, on how accountants can navigate political differences while maintaining professionalism, respect, and productive dialogue. Accountants are more than number crunchers—they are trusted advisors. As such, they must address politically charged topics with clients and colleagues while maintaining neutrality and professionalism. However, in an era where ideological divides are deepening, even casual conversations can lead to tension. 

3/27/25 • 47:39

What do tax pros need to know about the uncertainty in Washington?Quick Tax TipWith Art WernerCPE TodayWith tax season in full swing, CPAs and tax professionals are juggling client returns and a rapidly shifting tax landscape. In the latest Quick Tax Tip, Art Werner joins Rick Telberg of CPA Trendlines to dissect the state of tax policy, IRS challenges, and how accountants can turn uncertainty into opportunity.Click here for more Art WernerFrom looming IRS layoffs to the evolving role of technology in compliance and planning, this conversation is packed with insights that every tax practitioner needs to hear. Here are the biggest takeaways...

3/26/25 • 31:19

Find your community; find your people.The DisruptorsWith Liz FarrRichard Roppa-Roberts created Roundtable Labs by accident.He had just started his consulting firm, Quasar Cowboy, “and I had one spot available for a new client, and I had nine prospects, and I didn't know what to do,” Roppa-Roberts explains. “I was new at this whole thing, and I'm like, Well, I'm gonna put them all in a room together and see what shakes out. And what shook out was the first cohort of Roundtable Labs.”MORE PODCASTS and VIDEOS: Ira Rosenbloom: M&A Numbers Are Easy - Culture Fit Is Hard | Roman Villard: Ditch the Suit & Shine | Monique Swansen: Align Firm Values with Services | Tina McGill: How to Create Lasting Client Impact | Stefan van Duyvendijk: Develop Operational Mindset | Steve Evans: Why Traditional Hiring Methods Fail | Roger Knecht: Can You Be an Accountrepreneur? | Beth Whitworth: Focus on Outcomes Not Hours |Mike Sylvester: Learn to Say No | Salim Omar: Identify Your Client's $100,000 Problem | Jackie Meyer: Earn More with Fewer Clients | That spontaneous decision evolved into a thriving community of more than 300 members that’s been running for more than 11 years. Roppa-Roberts positions himself not as the expert but as what he calls "the keeper of the circus."Roundtable Labs is a place where accountants and bookkeepers can talk to others and find practical solutions to their problems, where they can discover they’re “not the only one” with a particular problem. “There's a lot of what I call talking heads that are out there espousing this is the way to do it,” Roppa-Roberts notes. Surrounded by often conflicting information and struggling to implement new ideas, Roundtable Labs members share what’s worked for them and collaborate to find workable solutions. Roppa-Roberts observes that “almost all discussions lead to pricing, contracts, and confidence.”

3/25/25 • 78:25

Make smarter decisions with the right data tools in Excel, Power BI, and TableauQuick Tech TalkWith Steve YossCPE TodayData visualization isn’t just about making numbers look good—it’s about telling a story. Whether you’re working in Microsoft Excel, Power BI, or Tableau, the chart you choose can completely change the way you interpret and communicate your data. But are you using the right one? MORE STEVE YOSS MORE TECH This episode of Quick Tech Talks breaks down the power of different chart types and why selecting the right one is crucial for accurate analysis. Did you know that pie charts are perfect for showing proportions, but scatter plots are better suited for identifying trends? Or that Excel alone offers more than two dozen different visualization options?

3/24/25 • 01:45

Utilize new tech to level up thought leadership and advisory services. Gear Up for Growth With Jean CaragherFor CPA TrendlinesThe latest episode of Gear Up for Growth, hosted by Jean Caragher of Capstone Marketing and powered by CPA Trendlines, featured an insightful discussion with Becky Livingston, founder and CEO of Penheel Marketing, on the role of artificial intelligence (AI) in CPA firm marketing. The conversation centered around two key takeaways: AI’s ability to enhance thought leadership efforts and its role in shifting CPAs toward more strategic client advisory services. Gear Up for Growth spotlights the best strategies for smart and efficient growth in today's competitive landscape. More Gear Up for Growth every Friday here | More Capstone Conversations with Jean Caragher every Monday | More Jean Caragher here | Get her best-selling handbook, The 90-Day Marketing Plan for CPA Firms, here | More CPA Trendlines videos and podcasts here Marketing research shows that high-growth CPA firms prioritize thought leadership through blogging, white papers, and public speaking. AI tools such as ChatGPT, Perplexity, and Jasper are revolutionizing this space by enabling firms to generate high-quality content efficiently. These tools allow CPAs to personalize content for niche audiences, optimize SEO strategies beyond traditional search engines, and streamline content creation to maintain a consistent and authoritative online presence.

3/21/25 • 43:47

"We’ve underestimated how quickly AI is changing our profession." Accounting ARCWith Liz Mason, Byron Patrick, and Donny ShimamotoCenter for Accounting TransformationIn a world where artificial intelligence is rapidly evolving, agentic AI is emerging as a powerful tool that could redefine the accounting profession. Unlike traditional AI applications, agentic AI doesn’t just respond to prompts—it actively coordinates multiple AI models to complete complex workflows. But is this a breakthrough for efficiency, or does it pose risks for the industry? MORE Accounting ARC: Kelly Mann: Thriving Against All Odds | Are We Ready for the Hidden Risks of AI in Accounting? | The Research Imperative: Why Data Drives Accounting Success | How Coaching Can Unlock Professional Success | Demystifying Accounting Governance | Top 10 Red Flags to Watch for in Accounting Offices | Jeremy Dubow: Private Equity as a Catalyst for Growth | Break the Burnout Cycle in Accounting | Accounting in Transition: 2024 Reflections & the Road Ahead | Ron Baker: Visions for the Accounting Profession | Angie Grissom: Next Gen Inspo for Accountants | Does Accounting Belong in STEM? | Rose Wang: Where Numbers Meet Strategy and Creativity | TikTok Fraud Exposes Gaps in Financial Literacy |In a recent episode of Accounting ARC, hosts Byron Patrick, CPA.CITP, CGMA; Donny Shimamoto, CPA.CITP, CGMA; and Liz Mason, CPA, break down the meaning, potential, and risks of agentic AI in accounting. “Agentic AI is about AI acting as an agent, not just a tool,” explains Shimamoto, founder and managing director of IntrapriseTechKnowlogies LLC and founder of the Center for Accounting Transformation. “It can take a single task, break it into smaller components, and distribute it across specialized AI models—then bring everything back into a cohesive solution.” 

3/20/25 • 32:38

Retirement planning isn't just about saving - it's about strategy. Quick Tax TipWith Art WernerCPE TodayWith tax laws constantly evolving, finding the right balance between financial planning, tax reduction, and compliance with the Internal Revenue Code can feel like a moving target. Fortunately, powerful opportunities are available in 2025 to maximize your retirement savings while minimizing your tax burden.Click here for more Art WernerFor instance, contribution limits to 401(k)s have significantly increased. In 2025, you can contribute up to $23,500; if you’re 50 or older, you can add an extra $7,000 in catch-up contributions. That’s a major opportunity to secure your financial future while reducing your taxable income today.But should you contribute to a Roth 401(k), a traditional 401(k), or other savings account?

3/19/25 • 03:15

Don't be afraid to try new ideas or plans--or afraid to fail.The DisruptorsWith Liz FarrLuke Templin believes that CAS – Client Advisory Services – will be the key to success as an accountant in the future. Not only is it an effective recruiting and retention tool for staff, but “it’s an attractive offering to clients,” he says. “If you were to talk to most entrepreneurs on what they want, most of them are going to want some sort of proactive advice on the numbers,” and not just the basics of bookkeeping and tax prep. MORE PODCASTS and VIDEOS: Ira Rosenbloom: M&A Numbers Are Easy - Culture Fit Is Hard | Roman Villard: Ditch the Suit & Shine | Monique Swansen: Align Firm Values with Services | Tina McGill: How to Create Lasting Client Impact | Stefan van Duyvendijk: Develop Operational Mindset | Steve Evans: Why Traditional Hiring Methods Fail | Roger Knecht: Can You Be an Accountrepreneur? | Beth Whitworth: Focus on Outcomes Not Hours |Mike Sylvester: Learn to Say No | Salim Omar: Identify Your Client's $100,000 Problem | Jackie Meyer: Earn More with Fewer Clients | Jack Fleherty: Don't Be a 'Yes' Person | Greg Adams: From Finance to Storytelling | The Disruptors | Jody Padar: Make Radical Changes Now If You Want to Be Relevant in 2030 | Rebecca Driscoll: Amplify Reach By Helping Other Firm Owners | Rory Henry: Create the Return on Relationships | Mike Maksymiw: Be the Leader You Wish You Had | Terrell Turner: Build a Solid Business Showing Up as Yourself | Kelly Mann: Be the Bull in the China Shop | Alicia Katz Pollock: Create A Human-Centric Business |  Over his career, Templin has built four different CAS offerings in other firms, including his own, A2 Advisors, which focuses on fractional CFO services. As Templin explains, the goal of CAS is “to get numbers as real-time as possible,” while a fractional CFO expands on bookkeeping, “helping the client solve problems with as real-time numbers as we can possibly get.”

3/18/25 • 49:00

"It’s a five-year degree for accounting versus four years for finance, and finance graduates often earn more."Accounting Influencerswith Rob BrownAs technology reshapes the accounting landscape, professional qualifications must evolve to keep pace. In a compelling episode of the Accounting Influencers Podcast, Brian Hock, founder of HOCK International, argues that accounting certifications and qualifications are more important than ever in an era of automation and artificial intelligence. Complete episode notes here More Accounting Influencers with Rob Brown here Hock says the rapid shift in accounting standards is spawning a host of new specialty skills, including data analytics, cybersecurity, and automation. "When I took the CPA exam almost 30 years ago, it was paper-and-pencil," Hock recalls. "Now, technology is embedded in every aspect of accounting."

3/17/25 • 46:36

Bring complex financial data to life with advanced visualization techniques.Quick Tech TalkWith Steve YossCPE TodayFinancial statements can be difficult for non-accounting professionals to interpret. Balance sheets and cash flow statements often contain crucial information, yet they remain inaccessible to many decision-makers. Enter Microsoft Power BI—a business intelligence and visualization tool that transforms structured financial data into interactive, easy-to-understand dashboards. MORE Steve Voss | MORE Tech | MORE Podcasts With Power BI, organizations can break down income statements into charts, graphs, and statistical analyses that make data both digestible and actionable. Beyond traditional financial metrics, users can integrate sales, marketing, and even social media data to provide a holistic view of business performance. This seamless data integration empowers decision-makers with real-time insights tailored to their needs.

3/17/25 • 02:09

Mark Koziel calls for CPA firm transformation amid industry disruption. Gear Up for GrowthWith Jean CaragherCapstone MarketingMark Koziel, newly appointed president and CEO of the Association of International Certified Professional Accountants (AICPA & CIMA), recently appeared on the Gear Up for Growth podcast, reflecting on his tenure as CEO of Allinial Global and the challenges facing the accounting profession. Koziel, who spent 14 years in leadership roles at AICPA before joining Allinial Global, emphasizes the urgent need for firms to rethink their business models in response to industry shifts. More CPA Trendlines  podcasts here | More Jean Caragher here In his conversation with host Jean Caragher, Koziel outlines how external pressures, including hybrid workforces, private equity investment, and shifting talent expectations, are reshaping CPA firms. He argues that while the COVID-19 pandemic accelerated these changes, the profession was already moving in this direction."Firms were always capable of hiring talent beyond their geographic boundaries, but it took a pandemic for them to act on it," Koziel says. "We now have a hybrid profession that is adjusting to these realities."

3/14/25 • 39:10

Study finds job embeddedness, not engagement, drives retention.Know-How KornerWith Donny ShimamotoCenter for Accounting TransformationA new study by Dr. Amy Cooper, CPA, CFE, CGMA, an assistant accounting professor and program director at University of Alaska Fairbanks, challenges conventional wisdom, revealing that job embeddedness—not engagement—is the key to keeping accountants in public firms.  MORE: Donny Shimamoto “I assumed smaller firms would foster stronger embeddedness, but my research showed the opposite,” says Dr. Cooper. “Larger firms offer more career mobility, specialization, and structured support, which increase long-term commitment.” While job engagement—enthusiasm for daily tasks—seems important, it did not significantly predict turnover intentions. Instead, employees with deeper professional and community ties were less likely to leave. 

3/13/25 • 34:11

Progressive firms are the key to the future of the profession.The DisruptorsWith Liz FarrThe world of M&A is full of disruption, distraction, and disorientation these days, says Ira Rosenbloom, CEO of Optimum Strategies. While the headlines focus on private equity’s increasing role in CPA firm acquisitions, two new types of acquirers are playing a bigger role: Family offices and wealth management.MORE PODCASTS and VIDEOS: Roman Villard: Ditch the Suit & Shine | Monique Swansen: Align Firm Values with Services | Tina McGill: How to Create Lasting Client Impact | Stefan van Duyvendijk: Develop Operational Mindset | Steve Evans: Why Traditional Hiring Methods Fail | Roger Knecht: Can You Be an Accountrepreneur? | Beth Whitworth: Focus on Outcomes Not Hours |Mike Sylvester: Learn to Say No | Salim Omar: Identify Your Client's $100,000 Problem | Jackie Meyer: Earn More with Fewer Clients | Jack Fleherty: Don't Be a 'Yes' Person | Greg Adams: From Finance to Storytelling | The Disruptors | Jody Padar: Make Radical Changes Now If You Want to Be Relevant in 2030 | Rebecca Driscoll: Amplify Reach By Helping Other Firm Owners | Rory Henry: Create the Return on Relationships | Mike Maksymiw: Be the Leader You Wish You Had | Terrell Turner: Build a Solid Business Showing Up as Yourself | Kelly Mann: Be the Bull in the China Shop | Alicia Katz Pollock: Create A Human-Centric Business | Nancy McClelland: Be the One Your Clients Ask FirstThese different participants are disrupting “the more traditional marketplace, which for years has been driven by two CPA firms getting together that had a lot in common, except one was larger and the other one was smaller,” says Rosenbloom. “I just think that what we've seen is there's not one approach that works for everybody. We're seeing dimension now. We're seeing a whole bunch of choices.”

3/11/25 • 57:32

Transform your workday with generative AI and discover practical ways to save time.Quick Tech TalkWith Steve YossCPE TodayGenerative AI tools are revolutionizing how we approach work, offering practical, efficient, and innovative solutions for professionals across industries. If you haven’t explored tools like OpenAI’s ChatGPT or Anthropic’s Claude, now is the time to dive in. These cutting-edge technologies are as accessible as they are powerful, requiring no special training—just your ability to clearly express your needs.MORE STEVE YOSSMORE TECHExclusively for PRO Members. Log in here or upgrade to PRO today.Imagine completing a 10-hour workload in just six hours. That’s the promise of generative AI: helping you work smarter, not harder.

3/10/25 • 02:07

Leaders must empower others, share leadership, and foster an inclusive culture to ensure long-term success.Gear Up for GrowthWith Jean CaragherFor CPA TrendlinesIn a rapidly evolving profession where mergers, acquisitions, and private equity investments dominate headlines, many CPA firms face a critical choice: sell, merge, or remain independent. For firms determined to chart their own course, leadership is the key to survival and success.Gear Up for Growth spotlights the best strategies for smart and efficient growth in today's competitive landscape. More Gear Up for Growth every Friday here | More Capstone Conversations with Jean Caragher every Monday | More Jean Caragher here | Get her best-selling handbook, The 90-Day Marketing Plan for CPA Firms, here | More CPA Trendlines videos and podcasts hereSarah Elliott, co-founder and principal of Intend2Lead LLC, joins Jean Caragher on the "Gear Up for Growth" podcast to discuss how conscious leadership can help CPA firms maintain independence, foster innovation, and develop future leaders. Her insights underscore a fundamental shift in leadership—one that requires vision, empowerment, and adaptability.According to Elliott, firms that want to remain independent need to cultivate three critical leadership qualities.

3/7/25 • 35:02

“I’d go through cancer again before I’d go back to not having confidence.”Accounting ARCWith Arpan GrewalCenter for Accounting TransformationWhen Kelly Mann left her public accounting job, she had no clients, no roadmap, and no guarantee of success. But what she did have was a vision—and a willingness to take risks. Today, she is the CEO of AuditMiner, a groundbreaking software company that simplifies 401(k) audits for CPA firms across the country. MORE Accounting ARC: Are We Ready for the Hidden Risks of AI in Accounting? | The Research Imperative: Why Data Drives Accounting Success | How Coaching Can Unlock Professional Success | Demystifying Accounting Governance | Top 10 Red Flags to Watch for in Accounting Offices | Jeremy Dubow: Private Equity as a Catalyst for Growth | Break the Burnout Cycle in Accounting | Accounting in Transition: 2024 Reflections & the Road Ahead | Ron Baker: Visions for the Accounting Profession | Angie Grissom: Next Gen Inspo for Accountants | Does Accounting Belong in STEM? | Rose Wang: Where Numbers Meet Strategy and Creativity | TikTok Fraud Exposes Gaps in Financial Literacy | How Accounting Pros Own the Stage in Public Speaking | Greg Kyte: Being a CPA Is Like Being the Marie Kondo of Numbers | Rachel Bashore: A Lawyer's Case for Reinventing Accounting | Beyond the Basics in Ethics Education“I was always told to stop being a bull in a china shop,” Mann recalls. “But I realized I was okay with being a bull—I just needed to leave the china shop.” That realization set her on the path to entrepreneurship. In 2020, Mann was preparing to launch AuditMiner when she was diagnosed with stage 3 breast cancer. Facing both a global pandemic and a personal health battle, she nearly gave up.

3/6/25 • 33:45

Dress for the job you want, not the job you have - yes, seriously. The DisruptorsWith Liz FarrTraditional accounting firms are undergoing a seismic shift, and at the forefront of this transformation is Roman Villard, founder of Full Send Accounting. In this episode of The Disruptors podcast, Liz Farr sits down with Villard to explore his unconventional approach to running an accounting and data consultancy. From redefining firm culture to embracing technology, Villard shares how his firm is reshaping what it means to be a modern accountant.MORE PODCASTS and VIDEOS: Monique Swansen: Align Firm Values with Services | Tina McGill: How to Create Lasting Client Impact | Stefan van Duyvendijk: Develop Operational Mindset | Steve Evans: Why Traditional Hiring Methods Fail | Roger Knecht: Can You Be an Accountrepreneur? | Beth Whitworth: Focus on Outcomes Not Hours |Mike Sylvester: Learn to Say No | Salim Omar: Identify Your Client's $100,000 Problem | Jackie Meyer: Earn More with Fewer Clients | Jack Fleherty: Don't Be a 'Yes' Person | Greg Adams: From Finance to Storytelling | The Disruptors | Jody Padar: Make Radical Changes Now If You Want to Be Relevant in 2030 | Rebecca Driscoll: Amplify Reach By Helping Other Firm Owners Many in the accounting industry grew up hearing, “Dress for the job you want.” But for Villard, that meant rethinking what kind of job—and firm—he actually wanted. Tired of the rigid expectations of traditional accounting firms, he built Full Send to foster authenticity, allowing professionals to bring their whole selves to work. From casual attire to a brand identity inspired by adventure sports, Full Send is a firm built on passion, energy, and going all in.

3/4/25 • 63:31

Adopting these tools will define future success in the profession.Accounting Influencerswith Rob BrownRandy Johnston, a pioneer in fintech and technology for accounting, shares his insights on the rapid evolution of artificial intelligence (AI) with a deep dive into its history and future potential. Johnston traces AI’s roots back to Alan Turing's groundbreaking work in the 1950s and walks listeners through decades of milestones, from the first neural networks to OpenAI's ChatGPT.More Accounting Influencers with Rob Brown hereHighlighting the shift to generative AI, Johnston explained how tools like ChatGPT leverage vast datasets through large language models (LLMs) to deliver advanced, nuanced responses. “AI isn’t prescient or conscious,” Johnston clarified, “but it’s a significant leap forward in what machines can do.”

3/3/25 • 31:12

Stopping cyber threats before they start begins with adopting one essential email habit today.Quick Tech TalkWith Steve YossCPE TodayIn today’s digital age, email continues to be a critical tool for communication—but it’s also a leading gateway for cyber threats such as malware, ransomware, and financial scams. For professionals, this makes email not only a convenience but also a significant risk factor. MORE STEVE YOSSMORE TECHExclusively for PRO Members. Log in here or upgrade to PRO today.Email requires your utmost vigilance. Cybercriminals often use sophisticated tactics like phishing and spear phishing to disguise themselves as trusted clients or colleagues. Spotting these scams can be incredibly challenging, as fraudulent emails often mimic legitimate communication styles and addresses.

3/3/25 • 02:24

Innovation, AI, and next-gen leaders must successfully adapt to constantly changing landscapes.Accounting Influencerswith Rob BrownThe accounting profession stands at a crossroads, faced with technological disruption, shifting business models, and an evolving workforce. In a recent episode of the Accounting Influencers podcast, industry leaders Bobby Lane, CEO of Factotum; Tony Szczepaniak, CEO of LEA Global; and Rick Richardson, CEO & Founder of Richardson Media & Technologies, engaged in a dynamic discussion about the state of accounting, the biggest threats facing the profession, and the opportunities ahead.More Accounting Influencers with Rob Brown hereSzczepaniak emphasizes the pressing issue of talent shortages, noting that regulatory bodies are exploring new ways to accelerate certifications and attract non-traditional candidates. He acknowledges that while some firms are innovating, others remain stagnant. "The firms that can clearly articulate their value proposition and adapt to strategic conversations internally will thrive," he asserts.Richardson paints a stark picture of a divided profession, describing it as a "sandwich" where younger professionals are innovating on one side while senior partners near retirement show little interest in transformative change. He warns that attracting young talent requires a shift in perception: "We need to do a better job of selling what accounting really is and what it offers to young professionals. Right now, they see better financial incentives and career growth elsewhere."Lane echoes this concern but offers a different perspective, citing that young professionals are still entering the profession but are more likely to view it as a short-term stepping stone rather than a long-term career path. "They want to gain qualifications, move into financial planning and analysis, corporate finance, or even start their own businesses," he explains.The panel agrees that technology, particularly AI and automation, will significantly impact the profession but not in the way many fear. "People panicked that cloud accounting would eliminate accountants. It didn’t. Instead, it shifted the value from processing to advisory services," Lane argues. He sees a similar transition with AI: "The challenge now is for accountants to become translators of numbers, helping businesses interpret and act on financial insights."

3/1/25 • 59:00

Focus on your clients...or someone else will.Gear Up for GrowthWith Jean CaragherFor CPA TrendlinesBill Sheridan, chief communications officer at the Maryland Association of CPAs, believes CPA firms must embrace change to stay competitive. As technology automates compliance work, firms that focus on client advisory services will be the ones that thrive. “Our clients’ expectations are changing, and they are looking for more than just traditional compliance services,” Sheridan says. “The firms that recognize this shift and focus on client advisory services will be the ones that thrive.”Gear Up for Growth spotlights the best strategies for smart and efficient growth in today's competitive landscape. More Gear Up for Growth every Friday here | More Capstone Conversations with Jean Caragher every Monday | More Jean Caragher here | Get her best-selling handbook, The 90-Day Marketing Plan for CPA Firms, here | More CPA Trendlines videos and podcasts hereSheridan emphasizes that while automation is transforming the accounting industry, it is not eliminating the need for CPAs. Instead, it is creating opportunities for professionals to enhance their roles.“Technology isn’t the biggest threat to CPA firms,” Sheridan explains. “The real danger is failing to prioritize client relationships.” He drew a powerful comparison to the retail industry: “Amazon didn’t kill retail—bad customer service did. The same applies to CPAs. If we stop being client-focused, we’ll become irrelevant.”

2/28/25 • 36:29

“Without AI literacy, we’re all at risk.” Accounting ARCWith Liz Mason, Byron Patrick, and Donny ShimamotoCenter for Accounting TransformationArtificial intelligence is revolutionizing accounting, automating everything from bookkeeping to tax preparation. But as AI advances, accountants must ask: Can we trust it? In this Accounting ARC episode, Donny Shimamoto, CPA.CITP, CGMA; Byron Patrick, CPA.CITP, CGMA; and Liz Mason, CPA, explore the growing risks AI poses to the profession, including deepfake fraud, financial market manipulation, and the loss of data privacy. MORE Accounting ARC: The Research Imperative: Why Data Drives Accounting Success | How Coaching Can Unlock Professional Success | Demystifying Accounting Governance |  Top 10 Red Flags to Watch for in Accounting Offices | Jeremy Dubow: Private Equity as a Catalyst for Growth | Break the Burnout Cycle in Accounting | Accounting in Transition: 2024 Reflections & the Road Ahead | Ron Baker: Visions for the Accounting Profession | Angie Grissom: Next Gen Inspo for Accountants | Does Accounting Belong in STEM? | Rose Wang: Where Numbers Meet Strategy and Creativity | TikTok Fraud Exposes Gaps in Financial Literacy | How Accounting Pros Own the Stage in Public Speaking | Greg Kyte: Being a CPA Is Like Being the Marie Kondo of Numbers | Rachel Bashore: A Lawyer's Case for Reinventing Accounting | Beyond the Basics in Ethics EducationTraditionally, software was designed and programmed by humans, making its logic transparent. Now, AI writes its own code, making its decisions harder to audit. As Patrick, CEO of VERIFYiQ and co-founder and educator for TB Academy, notes, “If we don’t know how AI arrives at conclusions, how can we verify its accuracy?” 

2/27/25 • 38:23

Make the most of financial contributions.Quick Tax TipWith Art WernerCPE TodayWhen it comes to charitable giving, many people think of writing an annual check to their favorite nonprofit. However, strategic charitable planning is much more than just making a yearly donation—it’s about aligning generosity with effective tax strategies to maximize impact while benefiting both the donor and the recipient. Get more Art Werner at cpatrendlines.com here: https://cpatrendlines.com/author/art-werner/ Whether you’re considering making gifts during your lifetime or planning your estate, understanding the best ways to direct your assets can create meaningful tax advantages while supporting causes that matter most to you.“Charitable planning goes well beyond just saying, ‘I’ll make a donation,’” Werner explains. “It involves estate planning, asset allocation, and structuring gifts in ways that are both tax-efficient and personally meaningful.”Donating to charitable organizations offers more than just a feel-good moment. With proper planning, taxpayers can leverage their generosity to reduce taxable income, manage estate taxes, and optimize their financial legacy. 

2/26/25 • 01:32

Do the work that fulfills you.The DisruptorsWith Liz FarrCannabis accounting is not for the faint of heart, says Monique Swansen, owner of Accounting for Green, which provides accounting services to cannabis businesses. First, there’s a big inventory component, so “if you're an accounting professional that does not want to deal in inventory, cannabis is not your space,” Swansen says. Cannabis inventory is further complicated by Federal law, which disallows tax deductions for anything but the cost of goods sold. This means meticulous tracking of all direct costs to get the maximum possible tax deduction. Compliance with state laws also requires “documentation for every single movement of inventory or money,” says Swansen. Banking is also challenging because “no Federal banks will bank cannabis.”  MORE PODCASTS and VIDEOS: Tina McGill: How to Create Lasting Client Impact | Stefan van Duyvendijk: Develop Operational Mindset | Steve Evans: Why Traditional Hiring Methods Fail | Roger Knecht: Can You Be an Accountrepreneur? | Beth Whitworth: Focus on Outcomes Not Hours | Mike Sylvester: Learn to Say No | Salim Omar: Identify Your Client's $100,000 Problem | Jackie Meyer: Earn More with Fewer Clients | Jack Fleherty: Don't Be a 'Yes' Person | Greg Adams: From Finance to Storytelling | The Disruptors | Jody Padar: Make Radical Changes Now If You Want to Be Relevant in 2030 | Cannabis business owners tend to know less about running a business than many other types of businesses. “So you really have to start that relationship early and try to talk with those people and understand those people where they're at so that you can really help them,” Swansen recommends. Her personal sweet spot is starting to work with cannabis businesses three to six months before they become operational.

2/25/25 • 53:19

Engaging staff in proactive fraud detection can be critical in spotting issues early.Quick Tech TalkWith Steve YossCPE TodayFraud detection isn’t just the responsibility of leadership—it’s a team effort. One of the most effective ways to safeguard your firm and clients from fraud is to empower your staff with the knowledge and awareness needed to recognize red flags. In the latest episode of Quick Tech Talks, the importance of this often-overlooked topic is explored in detail, offering practical tips for fostering a vigilant and informed workforce.MORE STEVE YOSSMORE TECHExclusively for PRO Members. Log in here or upgrade to PRO today.Regular discussions about potential fraud scenarios with your team can make all the difference. Employees are often the first line of defense, serving as the organization's "eyes and ears." Training them to detect warning signs—such as discrepancies in transactions, inconsistencies in customer information, or high-pressure tactics—can help mitigate risks before they escalate.

2/24/25 • 02:19

"Have fun. Make it accurate, clear, and interesting."Accounting Influencerswith Rob BrownOn this episode of Accounting Influencers, Nick Huber, a journalist and content strategist, explores how accounting firms can transform their content into a powerful tool for growth. Known for his work with the Financial Times and expertise in thought leadership, Huber shares actionable strategies to help firms navigate the ever-evolving digital landscape.More Accounting Influencers with Rob Brown hereHuber emphasizes that content creation is more than a marketing task—it’s an opportunity to showcase authority and build trust. From blogs to white papers, he stresses the importance of creating material that is clear, engaging, and relevant.“Thought leadership, done well, isn’t just about promoting your firm,” Huber explains. “It’s also about building your personal profile and advancing your career.”

2/22/25 • 25:31

Failure to address corporate climate can critically impact talent recruitment and retention.With Jean CaragherFor CPA TrendlinesAmy Vetter, CEO of the B3 Method Institute, discusses how accounting firms can transform workplace culture, reduce stress, and empower leaders to create a thriving work environment on the latest Gear Up for Growth episode.“A thriving workplace culture starts with strong leadership, clear communication, and a commitment to values,” Vetter says. “When leaders empower employees and lead with transparency, firms can create an environment where people feel supported and engaged.”  Gear Up for Growth spotlights the best strategies for smart and efficient growth in today's competitive landscape. More Gear Up for Growth every Friday here | More Capstone Conversations with Jean Caragher every Monday | More Jean Caragher here | Get her best-selling handbook, The 90-Day Marketing Plan for CPA Firms, here | More CPA Trendlines videos and podcasts here Vetter highlights the importance of setting boundaries to reduce stress. "We carry belief systems from when we started our careers—like feeling guilty for leaving the office at a reasonable hour,” Vetter explains, “but no one is actually judging you for setting healthy boundaries. Communicating expectations and structuring your day can help reduce unnecessary stress." 

2/21/25 • 38:29

“It’s not about what’s happening today, but about staying ahead of what’s coming next.”  Accounting ARCWith Liz Mason, Byron Patrick, and Donny ShimamotoCenter for Accounting Transformation“Without research, we’re just guessing,” says Donny Shimamoto, CPA.CITP, CGMA, setting the tone for a compelling discussion on the latest episode of Accounting ARC. Alongside fellow thought leaders Liz Mason, CPA, and Byron Patrick, CPA.CITP, CGMA, Shimamoto explores the vital role of research in modernizing and transforming the accounting profession. MORE Accounting ARC:  Student Turns Tables on Thought Leaders | How Coaching Can Unlock Professional Success | Demystifying Accounting Governance |  Top 10 Red Flags to Watch for in Accounting Offices | Jeremy Dubow: Private Equity as a Catalyst for Growth | Break the Burnout Cycle in Accounting | Accounting in Transition: 2024 Reflections & the Road Ahead | Ron Baker: Visions for the Accounting Profession | Angie Grissom: Next Gen Inspo for Accountants | Does Accounting Belong in STEM? | Rose Wang: Where Numbers Meet Strategy and Creativity | TikTok Fraud Exposes Gaps in Financial Literacy | How Accounting Pros Own the Stage in Public Speaking | Greg Kyte: Being a CPA Is Like Being the Marie Kondo of Numbers | Rachel Bashore: A Lawyer's Case for Reinventing Accounting | Beyond the Basics in Ethics Education | Research, they agree, is the backbone of informed decision-making. “Data allows us to see what’s truly happening, not just what we assume,” says Mason, CEO of High Rock Accounting. For the panel, evidence-based strategies are essential to keeping pace with rapid industry changes. 

2/20/25 • 24:42

Look for silver linings in tough situations.Quick Tax TipWith Art WernerCPE TodayWith tax season in full swing, many accountants are deep in the trenches, sorting through clients’ paperwork and preparing returns. While proactive tax planning is ideal, there are still opportunities to help clients optimize their tax situation—even in February and March.Tax expert Art Werner stresses that while year-end planning is crucial, tax professionals can still take strategic steps to ensure clients don’t overpay.Click here for more Art Werner“Sometimes, we have to make the best of bad situations,” Werner explains. “If something unexpected happened to a client—whether it’s a financial loss, a major expense, or a shift in income—there may be ways to maneuver the tax code to lighten the load.”

2/19/25 • 02:02

Meet your clients where they are.The DisruptorsWith Liz FarrWhen Tina McGill, founder of MMAS CPA, transitioned from working as an assistant CFO at a university to public accounting, she first noticed “how segmented we were from the client experience.” She was delivering the data the partners told her needed to be delivered, “But the client didn't necessarily understand what I was delivering.” For seven years, in her conversations with clients, she followed the “checklist of what I'm supposed to give you.” While she felt good about achieving what she was supposed to do, she realized that she "wasn't creating meaningful impact.” MORE PODCASTS and VIDEOS: Stefan van Duyvendijk: Develop Operational Mindset | Steve Evans: Why Traditional Hiring Methods Fail | Roger Knecht: Can You Be an Accountrepreneur? | Beth Whitworth: Focus on Outcomes Not Hours | Mike Sylvester: Learn to Say No | Salim Omar: Identify Your Client's $100,000 Problem | Jackie Meyer: Earn More with Fewer Clients | Jack Fleherty: Don't Be a 'Yes' Person | Greg Adams: From Finance to Storytelling | The Disruptors | Jody Padar: Make Radical Changes Now If You Want to Be Relevant in 2030 | Rebecca Driscoll: Amplify Reach By Helping Other Firm Owners | Rory Henry: Create the Return on Relationships | Mike Maksymiw: Be the Leader You Wish You Had | Terrell Turner: Build a Solid Business Showing Up as Yourself | Kelly Mann: Be the Bull in the China Shop | Alicia Katz Pollock: Create A Human-Centric Business |  Nancy McClelland: Be the One Your Clients Ask First |Alan Whitman: Stop Accepting the Status Quo | Sean Duncan: Discover Your Own Genius | Ingrid Edstrom: True Wealth Is Not Financial |That insight inspired her to start her advisory journey to provide clients with the information they need for success. “What business owners are really looking for are actionable insights,” says McGill. She points out that, as accountants, “there's so much value that we can bring to the table with these numbers and analytics and data, but we're not providing it in a way that's efficient and effective for them to make decisions.”  

2/18/25 • 70:30