Show cover of CPA CAREER PATHS

CPA CAREER PATHS

  Welcome to the CPA Career Paths Podcast, your ultimate guide to success in the world of accounting and the CPA profession. Join us as we dive into invaluable tips, insightful advice, and real-life CPA journeys, covering everything from conquering the CPA exam to achieving your dreams in the dynamic world of finance.

Tracks

In this episode of CPA Career Paths, Mike Maksymiw, a seasoned leader in the accounting world, shares his inspiring journey from working at a local firm to becoming a key player in a national powerhouse.In this video, we’re covering:00:00 - Introduction to Mike and His Role:Mike introduces himself and shares his current role in the accounting industry.01:02 - What Makes a Great Place to Work?Mike discusses the qualities of a great workplace and the environment that encourages personal and professional growth.02:07 - Mike's Early Career and Choosing Accounting:Mike reflects on how he started his career in accounting and what led him to pursue this field.03:29 - Working with Family and First Job Experience:Mike talks about his first job experiences and the challenges and benefits of working with family.04:49 - Landing the First Job After Graduation:He shares how he secured his first job after graduation and the lessons learned during that time.07:05 - Overcoming Challenges in Client Communication:Mike highlights the common challenges accountants face when communicating with clients and how he navigated them.10:25 - Understanding and Communicating with the Client:He delves deeper into the importance of understanding clients' needs and effectively communicating to build strong relationships.13:37 - Chasing Experience Instead of Title:Mike emphasizes that gaining experience is more important than simply chasing a job title, sharing his own career philosophy.14:52 - Lessons from Personal Growth:Mike reflects on his personal growth throughout his career and the valuable lessons he's learned along the way.17:41 - Leadership Academy and Career Development:Mike talks about his involvement in leadership development programs and how they shaped his approach to career advancement.19:16 - Why Mike Moved to a New Firm:He shares his reasons for moving to a new firm and how it impacted his career trajectory.20:06 - Transition to a Local Accounting Firm:Mike discusses the transition from a national firm to a local accounting firm and the changes that came with it.21:22 - The Desire to Constantly Improve:Mike talks about his drive for continuous improvement and how it has been a key factor in his success.22:53 - Learning Through Sports: Mike’s Growth Mindset:He draws parallels between the lessons learned through sports and his approach to professional development and mindset.25:03 - Managing People and Being Yourself:Mike discusses the importance of authenticity in leadership and how managing people requires staying true to oneself.26:51 - The Turning Point: Breaking Down the Walls of Self-Doubt:He shares a pivotal moment in his career when he overcame self-doubt and embraced his potential as a leader.29:04 - Importance of Feedback to Grow:Mike explains why feedback is crucial for professional growth and how he used it to evolve in his career.30:48 - Mike’s Advice for Overcoming Professional Barriers:He offers practical advice for overcoming common barriers in the professional world, especially for accountants.32:18 - The Journey to Partner at Filamino:Mike reflects on his journey to becoming a partner at Filamino and the challenges and accomplishments along the way.33:26 - The Positive Approach to the Merger:Mike discusses his positive mindset during the merger with Markham and how he navigated the transition successfully.#cpacareerpaths, #leadershipjourney, #accountingcareer, #businessleaders, #careeradvice, #professionaldevelopment, http://www.youtube.com/@CPACareerPaths

2/3/25 • 35:03

🎙️ Welcome to Episode 63 of the podcast! I’m Rosey Flaherty, and today we continue our conversation with Barry Melancon. Explore the incredible journey of accounting transformation with insights from a leader who has driven change within the AICPA. 📅 Note: Barry officially retired on December 31, 2024. This interview was conducted on December 16, 2024, while he was still serving as CEO and President of AICPA.✨ This episode is proudly sponsored by Chapman University's Argyros School of Business and Economics. Considering a master's in accounting? Their MSA program offers personalized attention from world-class faculty, intimate class sizes, and a flexible structure designed for ambitious professionals. Learn more and apply at chapman.edu/msaIn this episode, Barry shares his unparalleled insights into the accounting profession, covering:00:00 Sponsor Ad1:15 - Missing Client Service WorkDiscussing the value of client service work and why it’s such an important part of the accounting profession.2:34 - Impacting the ProfessionExploring how accounting professionals can make a difference and create meaningful change in the industry.6:15 - The Evolution of the ProfessionLooking at how the accounting field has transformed over time and adapted to new challenges.7:12 - Global Perspective and ChangesTalking about the influence of global standards and the importance of having an international outlook in accounting.10:39 - Great CPA Vs. Good CPAHighlighting the key traits that separate great CPAs from good ones and what makes them excel.13:28 - Technological Shifts in the CPA ExamA discussion on how technology, like computerized exams and AI, has revolutionized the CPA examination process.16:11 - A CPA Vs. A DoctorComparing the role of a CPA to that of a doctor, focusing on the shared responsibility and trust in both professions.17:49 - Habits to be Successful in a CPA CareerTips and insights into the habits and mindset needed for long-term success as a CPA.21:19 - Tips and Advice for ProfessionalsConcluding with practical advice for accountants and professionals to help them grow in their careers.#AccountingPodcast #CPAExam #AIInAccounting #AICPA #AccountingCareers #ChapmanUniversity #GlobalAccounting #AccountingInnovation #CPALeadership #AccountingEthics #ProfessionalDevelopment #CPAInsights #ChapmanMSA #CPAEvolution #AITransformation #CPAEducation #FutureOfAccounting #EthicsInAccounting #CPAProfession #AccountingTrends #ComputerizedCPA #GlobalStandards #TrustInAccounting #AccountingOpportunitieshttp://www.youtube.com/@CPACareerPaths

1/27/25 • 23:27

In this episode, I chat with Barry Melancon, who has been the CEO of AICPA for over 30 years! Barry shares his incredible journey from growing up in Louisiana to leading the world’s largest accounting organization. We dive into leadership lessons, the rise of AI in accounting, and what the future holds for the profession. If you’re looking for career advice or insights on how technology is shaping accounting, this episode is for you!📅 Note: Barry officially retired on December 31, 2024. This interview was conducted on December 16, 2024, while he was still serving as CEO and President of AICPA.In this episode, we cover:00:00- Introduction: I introduce Barry Melancon and highlight his incredible career in the accounting world.02:12 - Leadership Academy Experience: Barry reflects on his time at the Leadership Academy and how it shaped his career.03:25 - The Importance of Evolving Professions: We discuss the importance of adapting professions, especially in the face of technological advancements.04:13 - The Speed of Change in Technology: Barry talks about how quickly technology is changing the accounting profession and its impact on leaders.05:24 - Barry’s Journey in Accounting: Barry shares his career journey, from his early days to becoming a top leader in the field.11:22 - The Goal to Become a Partner by 25: Barry reveals his early career aspirations and how he achieved his goal of becoming a partner at a young age.12:37 - Balancing Work and Personal Life: We dive into the challenges of balancing a successful career with personal life and relationships.14:06 - The Louisiana Society and the Call for Leadership: Barry discusses his leadership role within the Louisiana Society and what it taught him.15:41 - The Importance of Goal Setting and Adaptability: Barry emphasizes the value of setting goals and being adaptable in your career and leadership journey.20:50 - The Challenges of Leadership: We wrap up the conversation with a look at the unique challenges leaders face and how to navigate them.👉 Don’t forget to hit subscribe for more career tips and inspiring interviews!#BarryMelancon #Leadership #CareerAdvice #AIinAccounting #AccountingFuture #AccountingProfession #ProfessionalGrowth #AccountingInsights #LeadershipLessons #AICPA #CareerDevelopment #AccountingCareer #FutureOfAccounting #AccountingTechnology #BusinessLeadership #LeadershipGrowth #AccountingInnovation #ArtificialIntelligence #AccountingTipshttp://www.youtube.com/@CPACareerPaths

1/20/25 • 24:16

Welcome to Episode 61 of our podcast! I'm Rosey Flaherty, and today I’m joined by Excel expert Jeff Lenning. In this episode, we explore top Excel tips for accounting and finance professionals, covering functions like conditional formatting, SUMIFS, pivot tables, and Power Query. Jeff also discusses how AI tools, such as ChatGPT and Excel’s Co-Pilot, are changing the game while still emphasizing the importance of mastering core Excel skills. If you're ready to take your Excel skills to the next level, this episode is packed with valuable insights!This episode is proudly sponsored by Chapman University's Argyros College of Business and Economics, located in sunny Southern California. Learn more and apply today at Chapman.edu/MSA.💡 In this episode, you’ll discover:00:00 - Hook + Sponsor Ad01:22 - Mastering Excel FunctionsJeff shares practical tips on Excel’s key functions like conditional formatting, SUMIFS, pivot tables, and Power Query.04:08 - Leveraging AI Tools in ExcelWe discuss how AI tools like ChatGPT and Excel’s Co-Pilot are transforming the way we use Excel, and why core skills are still essential.05:55 - Why Excel Skills Are Still Essential in the Age of AIJeff explains why Excel remains a vital tool for professionals, even with AI advancements.08:05 - The Role of Excel in Jeff’s CareerJeff talks about how Excel played a critical role in his career and continues to be an essential skill in his work.09:40 - How to Stand Out in Excel TrainingPractical tips on how you can make your Excel skills stand out in your career.12:26 - The Value of NASBA Approval in Excel TrainingLearn why NASBA approval is important for Excel courses and how it adds value to your professional development.14:30 - Career Uncertainty for Accounting StudentsJeff discusses challenges accounting students face and how mastering Excel can provide an edge in the job market.15:57 - Why Keep Your CPA License?Advice on why maintaining a CPA license is important for long-term career growth.17:04 - NASBA CPE Course Approval ProcessA quick overview of the NASBA CPE approval process and why it matters for your career.17:51 - Volunteering and Community Contribution – Microsoft MVP AwardLearn how Jeff earned the prestigious Microsoft MVP Award through his community involvement.18:56 - What is the Microsoft MVP Award?Find out more about the Microsoft MVP Award and what it means for professionals in Excel and other fields.20:15 - Jeff’s Hobbies and Personal GoalsA personal look at Jeff’s life outside of work, including his hobbies and professional aspirations.23:02 - Passion vs. Pressure – Surviving Busy SeasonJeff talks about balancing passion with the pressures of busy season and staying motivated.26:42 - The Reality of Producing VideosA behind-the-scenes look at the challenges and joys of producing educational videos.28:54 - Final Thoughts and Advice for Students and Young ProfessionalsJeff offers advice on how students and young professionals can succeed in the accounting field, with a focus on mastering Excel.🎧 Enjoyed this episode? Subscribe to our podcast for more expert tips and insights!👍 Leave a review if you found this episode helpful—your feedback helps us improve!💬 Join the conversation on social media and share your thoughts on Excel and AI!#ExcelTips #ExcelTraining #AccountingSkills #AIandExcel #ExcelMastery #PodcastForAccountants #AccountingProfessionalshttp://www.youtube.com/@CPACareerPaths

1/13/25 • 31:00

Ep# 60: Mastering Excel for CPAs with Jeff Lenning| Excel University President 🎓Welcome to another exciting episode of our podcast! 🎉 Today, we have a very special guest: Jeff Lenning, a Microsoft Excel MVP and President of Excel University. Jeff shares his inspiring journey from being a CPA to building a thriving career in Excel training and consulting. 🌟💡 In this episode, you'll discover:00:00- IntroductionAn introduction to the episode and the guest, Jeff, highlighting his professional background and setting expectations for the discussion.02:06 - Jeff's CPA JourneyJeff shares his journey to becoming a Certified Public Accountant (CPA), offering insights into the motivations and challenges he faced along the way.03:10 - The Impact of Tax SeasonA look into the intense, fast-paced environment of tax season and its effects on Jeff's career and perspective as a CPA.04:06 - Why Jeff Chose Audit Over TaxJeff explains his decision to specialize in auditing instead of tax, discussing his interests and the career opportunities that influenced his choice.05:50 - Jeff’s Experience in Audit and Learning ExcelJeff reflects on his time in auditing and how mastering Excel became a critical part of his professional toolkit.08:19 - Accounting Manager RoleAn overview of Jeff’s transition to an accounting manager position, focusing on leadership, responsibilities, and career development.10:10 - The Power of Excel ShortcutsJeff shares the importance of Excel shortcuts in enhancing productivity and streamlining day-to-day tasks for professionals.11:12 - Becoming President of Click ConsultingJeff narrates his path to becoming the president of Click Consulting, including the challenges, growth, and vision for the company.12:27 - Transition to Excel UniversityA discussion about Jeff’s founding of Excel University, his mission to empower others with Excel expertise, and the impact of this initiative.16:06 - Top 5 Reasons to Be Good at ExcelJeff highlights the top reasons why Excel proficiency is crucial for professionals, emphasizing career growth and problem-solving skills.19:21 - Advice for Aspiring CPAsPractical advice and tips for individuals aspiring to become CPAs, drawn from Jeff’s own experiences in the field.21:33 - Common Excel Mistakes to AvoidJeff wraps up the episode by identifying common mistakes made in Excel and providing strategies to avoid them.Whether you're an accounting professional, a CPA, or just someone passionate about Excel, this conversation is packed with insights and actionable tips to take your skills to the next level. 🚀📌 Don’t forget to like, comment, and subscribe for more amazing content!🎧 Tune in and learn how to supercharge your career with Excel!#ExcelTips #Accounting #Podcast #ExcelUniversity #CPAJourneyhttp://www.youtube.com/@CPACareerPaths

1/6/25 • 24:34

Ep.59: Eventually money will come00:00 - From Employee to Entrepreneur: The journey of transitioning from an employee to becoming a successful business owner. Insights into the decision-making process and the challenges faced along the way.05:20 - Choosing the Law Firm Niche: Why specializing in accounting services for law firms became the ideal focus, and how this niche was identified as a strategic business advantage.15:10 - Top 3 Leadership Lessons: The most impactful lessons learned while leading a successful accounting firm and how these insights can help other aspiring professionals.21:59 - Podcast Hosting & Public Speaking: How being a podcast host and public speaker has influenced personal and professional growth, and the benefits of sharing expertise on public platforms.27:10 - Work-Life Balance Tips: How to enjoy life despite a hectic work schedule, with actionable tips for achieving a healthy work-life balance.32:24 - Career Advice for Young Professionals: Practical tips and advice to help young accounting and finance professionals navigate their career paths and achieve long-term success.This episode is proudly sponsored by Chapman University's Argyros College of Business and Economics, located in beautiful sunny Southern California. Discover more and apply today at Chapman.edu/MSA.http://www.youtube.com/@CPACareerPaths

12/30/24 • 35:00

Ep.58: Beyond Numbers, Well-Rounded Professionals00:00 - Being the Youngest Team Member in an Industry Job 12:46 - Gaining Valuable Work Experience in Brazil20:04 - Transitioning to a More Challenging Job After Returning to the US from Brazilhttp://www.youtube.com/@CPACareerPaths

12/23/24 • 32:52

Ep.57 Public accounting tested my limits.00:00 - Introduction04:24 - Choosing Accounting as a College Major05:35 - Insights from Your First Accounting Internship Experience08:12 - Working at EY: Challenges and Opportunities10:31 - Audit vs. Tax: Which Path is Right for You?18:00 - The Most Valuable Lessons Learned at EY27:18 - Top Reasons for Leaving EY and Transitioning Careers29:07 - Adapting to Private Accounting After Public Accounting ExperienceThis video is proudly sponsored by Chapman University's Argyros College of Business and Economics, located in beautiful sunny Southern California. Discover more and apply today at Chapman.edu/MSA.http://www.youtube.com/@CPACareerPaths

12/16/24 • 31:40

Ep.56 Grow & Nurture Professional Networks00:00 How to Identify and Find Great Staff Members in Accounting08:21 Top Interview Questions to Uncover the Best Talent for Your Team21:04 The Importance and Value of Networking for CPAs and Professionals29:01 Breaking the Stereotype: CPAs Can Be Fun and Engaging33:01 Practical Tips and Advice for Young Accounting ProfessionalsMarkoff & Malatesta CPAs is a small CPA firm providing tax, client accounting services, and advisory services to their individual and business clients all over the country.  Check out their website at Markoff.cpa to learn more about them and what they do for their clients.http://www.youtube.com/@CPACareerPaths

12/9/24 • 37:47

Ep. 55 Appreciation matters most during hardships01:16 Top Strategies to Avoid Burnout in Accounting23:52  How to Measure Staff Efficiency Effectively34:16 Achieving Work-Life Balance in a CPA CareerMarkoff & Malatesta CPAs is a small CPA firm providing tax, client accounting services, and advisory services to their individual and business clients all over the country.  Check out their website at Markoff.cpa to learn more about them and what they do for their clients.This video is proudly sponsored by Chapman University's Argyros College of Business and Economics, located in beautiful sunny Southern California. Discover more and apply today at Chapman.edu/MSA.http://www.youtube.com/@CPACareerPaths

12/2/24 • 38:02

Ep.54: I know absolutely NOTHING.00:00 Introduction 02:14  Difference Between a Tax Strategist and a Tax Preparer07:45 Choosing Accounting as a College Major: What Inspired You?16:16 First Job in Accounting: Insights from a Recent GraduateThis video is proudly sponsored by Chapman University's Argyros College of Business and Economics, located in beautiful sunny Southern California. Discover more and apply today at Chapman.edu/MSA.Markoff & Malatesta CPAs is a small CPA firm providing tax, client accounting services, and advisory services to their individual and business clients all over the country.  Check out their website at Markoff.cpa to learn more about them and what they do for their clients.http://www.youtube.com/@CPACareerPaths

11/25/24 • 25:47

01:26 - Career Transition: Life After Deloitte09:59 - Key Skills for Aspiring Accountants: What Students Should Focus On14:28 - Supporting Students in the AI Era: Insights from a Professor16:25 - Essential Skills for Post-Graduation Success in Accounting24:25 - Balancing Ministry and Accounting: How They Shape Each Other26:48 - Hidden Hobbies: Surprising Interests Beyond Work29:07 - Final Tips and Advice for Young AccountantsCheck out Erick's Youtube: http://www.youtube.com/@ericko.bellcpa3486Check out Erick's Book: Living Healthy: Six Simple Strategies to Achieve a Healthy Life Spiritually, Physically, and Financially. (Link: https://www.amazon.com/Living-Healthy-strategies-spiritually-financially/dp/B09FC6G7ML)This episode is proudly sponsored by Chapman University's Argyros College of Business and Economics, located in beautiful sunny Southern California. Discover more and apply today at Chapman.edu/MSA.http://www.youtube.com/@CPACareerPaths

11/18/24 • 31:26

Ep.52 Oooohh!!! Moments Make Teaching RewardingCheck out Erick's Youtube: http://www.youtube.com/@ericko.bellcpa3486Check out Erick's Book: Living Healthy: Six Simple Strategies to Achieve a Healthy Life Spiritually, Physically, and Financially. (Link: https://www.amazon.com/Living-Healthy-strategies-spiritually-financially/dp/B09FC6G7ML)This episode is proudly sponsored by Chapman University's Argyros College of Business and Economics, located in beautiful sunny Southern California. Discover more and apply today at Chapman.edu/MSA.http://www.youtube.com/@CPACareerPaths

11/11/24 • 30:29

Ep.51: Relevancy grows with adaptive thinkingThis episode is proudly sponsored by Chapman University's Argyros College of Business and Economics, located in beautiful sunny Southern California. Discover more and apply today at Chapman.edu/MSA.http://www.youtube.com/@CPACareerPaths

11/4/24 • 44:40

Declining CFO offer; prefer Controller rolehttp://www.youtube.com/@CPACareerPaths

10/28/24 • 35:31

Ep.49: With a forward-thinking, strategic, and optimistic mindset, we turn challenges into opportunities.http://www.youtube.com/@CPACareerPaths

10/21/24 • 38:59

Ep.48: Human connection is what people love the most.http://www.youtube.com/@CPACareerPaths

10/15/24 • 22:35

Ep.47: Impossible until it's Inevitablehttp://www.youtube.com/@CPACareerPaths

10/7/24 • 40:58

Ep.46: People want to feel the value and a sense of purpose.Timeline: 03:12 - Why Choose an Accounting Major?04:34 - First Job After College in Accounting08:30 - Current Generation’s Needs in the Accounting Profession10:57 - Promotion Timeline for Experienced Staff from Different Backgrounds13:58 - Career Change: Transition from Cooper to Anderson17:43 - Essential Negotiation Skills for Accountants20:42 - The Circular Career Path of Accounting Professionalshttp://www.youtube.com/@CPACareerPaths

9/30/24 • 29:41

Ep.45: Having a network is an intangible asset that you can't put a value on it. It's priceless.00:00 - Transitioning from a Regional Accounting Firm to a National Firm: Key Experiences and Insights02:59 - Did You Always Aspire to Own Your Own Accounting Firm?04:55 - How Long Did It Take to Prepare for the Launch of Your Own Accounting Firm?08:26 - Networking Tips and Strategies for Accounting Professionals16:19 - Becoming a Speaker in the Accounting Industry: How It All Started21:42 - Essential Tips and Advice for Young Accounting Professionals24:25 - How Do You Spend Your Free Time?26:47 - Achieving Work-Life Balance as an Accounting Professional29:26 - How to Effectively Say "No" in a Professional Setting32:19 - What’s the One Gift You Would Like People to Give You?http://www.youtube.com/@CPACareerPaths

9/23/24 • 33:32

00:00 - Introduction03:25 - Why Choose Accounting as a Major? Early Career Insights08:06 - Transferable Skills from Manufacturing to Accounting10:06  - How Auditors Convinced Me to Join the Audit Profession12:01  - Internship Experience with 2 Years of Professional Background13:28 - Transition from Audit Intern to Audit Associate: What to Expect15:20  - Memorable Client Experiences as an Audit Associate20:03 - Career Advice: Finding Your Passion and Professional Path22:50 - How Data Analytics Enhances Client Audit Work24:46 - Leveraging AI for Data Analytics in Auditing28:11  - How to Get Your Team Onboard with Data Analyticshttp://www.youtube.com/@CPACareerPaths

9/16/24 • 31:12

00:20 - Why is staff training crucial for business success?02:01 - How does job satisfaction boost leadership and performance?05:58 - What are the top challenges staff face with new technology?09:10 - How can training help new employees quickly adapt to the digital workplace?13:08 - How do leaders maintain a healthy work-life balance?20:19 - What are the best strategies for setting and maintaining professional boundaries?21:42 - What was the biggest challenge when transitioning between leadership roles?24:51 - How can companies overcome talent shortages and retain top employees?29:42 - What advice would you give to young professionals entering the workforce?http://www.youtube.com/@CPACareerPaths

9/10/24 • 32:55

Climb to the top of the building, look around and realize that I’m standing on the top of the wrong one.http://www.youtube.com/@CPACareerPaths

8/26/24 • 33:11

Ep.41: If you just get in the industry, you want to be a sponge.http://www.youtube.com/@CPACareerPaths

8/19/24 • 30:03

Ep.40: CPA Exam Tips - Start with Output, Not Materialshttp://www.youtube.com/@CPACareerPaths

8/12/24 • 32:52

Ep.39: Our job is going to be safe as long as humans have emotions.http://www.youtube.com/@CPACareerPaths

8/5/24 • 37:18

Ep.38 Black Friday in Public Accountinghttp://www.youtube.com/@CPACareerPaths

7/31/24 • 23:32

Ep.37: Everybody has the same amount of time. We just need to learn how to manage it more effectively.http://www.youtube.com/@CPACareerPaths

7/24/24 • 29:13

Ep.36: Studying sometimes sucks. Working sometimes sucks. Being in military and having things blown up and getting shot at is a whole different level of suck!http://www.youtube.com/@CPACareerPaths

7/17/24 • 32:45

Ep.35: You have no ideas about how good you are going to be  at something until you give it a try!http://www.youtube.com/@CPACareerPaths

7/10/24 • 31:19