
Transforming: Tales of Business Evolution
Transforming: Tales of Business Evolution is a monthly podcast from AICPA & CIMA's Private Companies Practices Section (PCPS). Formerly known as the Small Firms Philosophy podcast, it explores innovative operating methods that help organizations of any size adapt to a changing business landscape. Each episode features industry leaders discussing their experiences reshaping business models and navigating the dynamics of business transformation. The show aims to inspire listeners to consider new ways of evolving their own organizations.
Episodes

TfP 023. The Talent Lifecycle Advantage
The talent landscape is changing — and firms and organizations that adapt will have a competitive advantage. In this episode, Lexi Weber, CPA, Senior Manager – Emerging Professionals Initiatives, sits down with George Forsyth, CPA, Managing Partner of WellsColeman and Chair of the AICPA Private Companies Practice Section (PCPS) Executive Committee, for an engaging conversation about a new toolkit

TfP 022. Developing Talent and Embracing Change
Recorded live at the AICPA's ENGAGE 2026, Erin Hartman, CPA, Senior Manager – Firm Services, sits down with Cheryl Rhode, CPA, Partner at West Rhode & Roberts, where she explains how she is intentionally developing the next generation of firm leaders and why she brings them to ENGAGE to help build their networks and broaden their perspective beyond the walls of the firm. As Chair of a Private Comp

TfP 021. Evaluating the Independent CPA Firm Model
Many firm leaders are evaluating their ownership and capital models, which includes considering the option of bringing in outside strategic investors. But many firms continue to choose independence as a strategic path. In this episode, Andrea Wright, CPA, Partner at Johnson Lambert LLP, shares how her firm defines independence through the lens of culture and long-term investment. She explains how

TfP 020. Elevating Women's Initiatives to Drive Transformation
In this episode, Laura Crowley, Partner at Citrin Cooperman and member of the AICPA's Women's Initiatives Executive Committee, and Mandy Gallagher, Lead Manager of Women's Initiatives at the AICPA, discuss what it really takes to build a firm where women advance and why every firm that does comes out stronger. Laura and Mandy share practical strategies on sponsorship, leadership development, and r

TfP 019. Intentional Firm Growth That Actually Works
What does successful growth really look like for today's firms? In this episode, Sarah Krom, CPA, MST, Managing Partner of SKC & Co. CPAs, LLC, explores how firm leaders can scale intentionally without sacrificing culture, people, or purpose. Sarah shares how SKC approaches growth by focusing on other factors beyond revenue and headcount. From launching new service lines to navigating change throu

TfP 018. Burnout Prevention in Action
Lauren Baptiste, founder of Acheloa Wellness, explores how burnout is more than just exhaustion; it's a systemic challenge affecting professionals at every level. Lauren highlights the new PCPS Burnout Prevention Toolkit, a practical resource designed to help individuals, firms, organizations, and the profession combat burnout before it starts. Lauren shares her personal journey, actionable strate

TfP 017. Getting Ready for 'Busy Season', Part II
We're back with another special compilation of conversations offering insights relevant for preparing for busy season. Jaimie Boyd from the AICPA® Firm Services team shares highlights from conversations we've had over the past year with practitioners who are applying the fundamental concepts of the Transforming Your Business Model initiative to their day-to-day operations. From scheduling systems

TfP 016. Beyond the Numbers: Real-World Insights from the MAP Survey
Ready to turn data into your firm's competitive edge? This episode reveals how firm leaders are leveraging the National Management of an Accounting Practice (MAP) Survey, from the AICPA Private Companies Practice Section (PCPS) and CPA.com, to drive smarter decision-making and stay ahead in a rapidly evolving profession. Shayna Chapman, CPA.CITP, CGMA, CEO, Founder of Shaynaco LLC, and Brent Forbu

TfP 015. Governance That Builds Culture
In this episode of Transforming: Tales of Business Model Evolution, Suzanne Forbes, CPA, Managing Partner of James Moore, explores why governance must evolve as your firm grows, why it's essential to revisit partner compensation, and how to guide your team through transitions. Suzanne also highlights ways to build a strong, connected culture for remote employees. Looking ahead, she expresses excit

TfP 014. Building Balance in a Virtual Firm
Kelly Rohrs, CPA, Founder of K. Rohrs, CPA, P.C., shares the journey of launching her firm from concept to reality. Listeners will gain insight into how she structures client relationships, manages expectations during high volume periods, and fosters talent retention through flexibility and trust. Kelly offers practical advice for firm owners looking to break away from traditional models, emphasi

TfP 013. When Purpose Meets Innovation
Live from ENGAGE 2025, Erin Hartman, CPA, Senior Manager – Firm Services, sits down with Argel Sabillo, CPA, Cofounder and Chief Executive Officer of HeyApril Inc, to discuss the ways he is reshaping the profession and leaving tradition behind. With a client base rooted in internet-based startups and small businesses, HeyApril offers full-scale, end-to-end accounting services. Argel shares how hi

TfP 012. Creating Balance Without Losing Business
Brenda Cannon, Partner at Cannon & Associates, CPAs, shares how her firm rethought busy season by scheduling every tax return to prepare and control the workflow. From setting clear boundaries and prioritizing ideal relationships, to encouraging clients to file extensions, Brenda breaks down how intentional change can create a healthier, more sustainable work environment. Tune in to learn how to n

TfP 011. The Influence of Coaching on Firm Growth
Rebecca Driscoll, CPA, Co-founder of The Collaboration Room, walks through her unconventional journey into public accounting, highlighting her transition from working at a large firm to establishing her own CAS and Tax practice. Rebecca elaborates on the significant life changes that motivated her to pursue a different career trajectory. Emphasized in this episode is the significance of internal

Governance Series: Key Success Factors for Better Governance
In the final episode of the four-part governance podcast series, Erin Hartman, CPA, Senior Manager – Firm Services of the AICPA & CIMA joins Sarah Dobek, Founder and President of Inovautus Consulting, and Gary Thomson, CPA, Founder and Principal of Thomson Consulting, to wrap up and share insights and lessons learned from the series. They reflect on the evolving mindset around governance and how i

Governance Series: Navigating Partnership Change with Purpose
In this episode, hosts Sarah Dobek, Founder and President of Inovautus Consulting, and Gary Thomson, CPA, Founder and Principal of Thomson Consulting, are joined by Chip Chaon, CEO and Managing Principal of LattaHarris, LLP, and Mark Kovaleski, Managing Partner of MMB+CO, where they explore how evolving governance structures are reshaping partnership agreements within firms. The conversation also

Governance Series: The Rise of Non-CPA Leaders in Public Accounting
In this episode, hosts Sarah Dobek, Founder and President of Inovautus Consulting, and Gary Thomson, CPA, Founder and Principal of Thomson Consulting, are joined by Eric Majchrzak, CEO/Principal for BeachFleischman, to dive into a pivotal shift in the accounting profession—the rise of non-CPA professionals stepping into leadership roles in public accounting firms. Learn more about how firms are em

Governance Series: Implementing Operating Models in Your Firm
In this episode, hosts Sarah Dobek, Founder and President of Inovautus Consulting, and Gary Thomson, CPA, Founder and Principal of Thomson Consulting, are joined by Chris Sullivan, CPA, Managing Partner of VSH CPAs, and Amber Goering, CPA, Owner of Goering & Granatino (GG Advisors) to discuss the implementation of the Entrepreneurial Operating System (EOS) in their respective firms. Chris and Ambe

TfP 010. Leading with Authenticity and Vulnerability
Content Note: This episode includes discussions about mental health, including depression, anxiety, and suicide. Please take care while listening. In this powerful episode, Randy Crabtree, Co-Founder and Partner at Tri-Merit, shares his personal story of navigating mental health challenges and how that experience shaped his leadership approach and advocacy within the profession. Randy shares what

TfP 009. Transforming Business Growth in Public Accounting
What defines a thriving business development culture in public accounting? Josh Axelrod, Chief Operating Officer of Aldrich CPAs + Advisors, shares the elements of a successful business development environment. Learn how intentional efforts pave the way for strategic action and how to overcome challenges you may face. Packed with actionable insights and real-world advice, you'll obtain strategies

TfP 008. Governance Unlocked: Discoveries with Gary Thomson and Sarah Johnson Dobek
Gary Thomson, CPA, Founder and Principal of Thomson Consulting, and Sarah Johnson Dobek, Founder and President of Inovautus Consulting, explore how strong governance can drive successful business model transformation. They share practical insights on how firms can adopt effective governance frameworks to guide their transformation strategies, ensuring sustainable growth and adaptability. You'll le

TfP 007. The Power of Private Equity
Private equity-backed firms are reshaping the professional services landscape. In this episode, Tim Brackney, CEO of Springline Advisory, and Josh Beck, Managing Partner at MarksNelson Advisory LLC, share insights into their collaboration and strategic approaches to firm growth and transformation. Discover how Springline's model helps firms unlock value, enhance operations and scale successfully.

TfP 006. Starting your own firm and growing the right client base
Starting your own firm can be tough, but finding the right clients makes all the difference. In this episode, Yuri Kapilovich, CPA, a managing partner of Kapilovich & Associates shares his ideas about the importance of choosing quality clients and building strong relationships, rather than just focusing on quantity, He also discusses how to balance work, family and personal goals. If you're th

TfP 005. The power of ESOPs in reshaping your firm's future
In this episode with Dan O'Hare, CPA, CGMA, Principal at Glenn Burdette, we explore why CPA firms might choose to implement an Employee Stock Ownership Plan (ESOP). With Dan's insights and expertise, we explore how ESOPs can facilitate smooth succession planning, boost employee retention and engagement and offer significant tax benefits. Additionally, we discuss how this alternative practice struc

TfP 004. ESOP Insights. Unlocking the Future of Firm Ownership
Are you curious about how to empower your employees and fuel your firm's growth? Listen as we explore employee stock ownership plans (ESOPs) with Mike Bannon, vice president at CSG Partners. You'll discover how this powerful tool can help your firm achieve its long-term goals and implementation plans, from planning and financing to valuation and ownership transition. This episode offers insights i

TfP 003. Getting Ready for 'Busy Season'
Erin Hartman from the AICPA & CIMA PCPS section introduces a special compilation of conversations on the evolution of accounting firms and the modernization of accounting practices through the "Transforming Your Business Model" initiative. It contains valuable insights and motivation for accounting professionals looking to innovate and create sustainable business models while maintaining a healthy

TfP 002. Adapting to change: Innovative strategies in accounting
How are forward-thinking firms adapting to the profession's changing landscape? We're joined by Abbey Bemis and Mike Miller from Payne Nickles & Company to hear their transformative insights. They investigate how firms adapt to shifts in tax seasons and the broader profession because of new technology and AI. Abbey and Mike also tackle the talent shortage challenge, sharing strategies for attrac

TfP 001. Corporate governance model transformation
Jeff Wald, CEO of Pinion, shares his insights and expertise on the importance of corporate governance. He uncovers strategies for managing major firm transformations, securing stakeholder buy-in and crafting transparent strategic plans. Jeff also highlights the importance of building strong relationships at the board level, humanizing business disagreements and empowering your firm to make effecti

Teaser: Our podcast is changing!
The look and feel of your podcast is about to evolve. We're excited to share that the Small Firms Philosophy podcast is becoming "Transforming, tales of Business Evolution". New episodes start later in November 2024.

SFP 97: Evolving governance structures for business success
In this podcast episode, we explore with Jonyce Bullock, CEO of Squire, how evolving governance structures can revolutionize your business model. Jonyce shares her journey through governance challenges, emphasizing the value of external support and diverse perspectives in navigating complex decisions. You'll discover strategies for enhancing decision-making, implementing changes effectively and

SFP 96 Boosting firm capabilities with offshoring
Are you facing a talent shortage? Offshoring may be the answer. Our guest Laurence Whittam of Impact Global Solutions discusses tapping into global talent pools to boost your firm's capabilities. From selecting the right offshoring model to building successful remote teams, Laurence shares practical advice for small firms. Discover various offshoring models, practical implementation steps, process

SFP 95: The power of people and culture to transform business models and set firms up for success
In this episode of the Small Firm Philosophy podcast, Ingrid Goldbloom-Bloch, Director of Career Development and Engagement at AAFCPAs, talks with PCPS manager Erin Hartman to share how her firm is making waves and doing things differently in the profession. When Ingrid joined AAFCPA, she was tasked with elevating the people and culture pillars of the firms strategic plan. Ingrid's day to day focu

SFP 94: A Hale and hearty approach to business model transformation
Accounting firms planning for future success may want to rethink their approach to new opportunities. In this episode of the Small Firm Philosophy podcast, Elizabeth Hale, founder and CEO of eeCPA, shares with PCPS manager Erin Hartman how her firm is revolutionizing the traditional CPA model by putting people first and driving client success. SFP is produced by AICPA & CIMA's firm services tea

SFP 94: How a data-driven approach powered this firm's transformation
This episode of the Small Firm Philosophy podcast features Steve McDonald, CPA, managing partner at Abdo, sharing tips about how he integrated cutting edge data and government consulting services with new technologies to revolutionize his firm's client services. SFP is produced by AICPA & CIMA's firm services team, aka the Private Companies Practice Section (PCPS). Lisa Simpson, CPA, CGMA, vice

SFP 93: New PCPS toolkits tackle revenue modeling and culling clients
This episode of the Small Firm Philosophy podcast unveils a pair of powerful toolkits designed to help accounting firms reshape and optimize their business. PCPS manager Erin Hartman, CPA, and Carrie Steffen, the president of growth consulting firm The Whetstone Group, introduce the Revenue Modeling and the Right Sizing Your Client Base toolkits, which are exclusive to PCPS members: SFP is pro

SFP 92: Sowing the seeds for future CPAs
From engaging high schoolers to partnering with community influencers, discover how Grossman Yanak & Ford cultivates future accountants. This episode of the Small Firm Philosophy podcast features a discussion with GYF's Colleen Febbraro about the firm's freshman forum program, the importance of promoting the accounting profession, changing stereotypes, and more. SFP is produced by AICPA & CIMA's

SFP 91: Ascend to a new business model
This episode of the Small Firm Philosophy podcast features an interview with David Wurtzbacher and Erin Stahmer of Ascend, a platform firm that is employing unique strategies in its business model. Join us to discuss people strategy, offshoring tips, and how to own the value of firm services. SFP is produced by AICPA & CIMA's firm services team, aka the Private Companies Practice Section (PCPS). P

SFP 90: How a CPA firm got lean and 'drastically reduced' overtime
This episode of the Small Firm Philosophy podcast features an interview with Dennis Sherrin, CPA, CGMA, chief value officer and strategic consultant at Avizo Group, Inc., an Alabama-based CPA firm with 35 team members in the United States and India. Sherrin discusses how Avizo implemented Lean Six Sigma (LSS) to streamline the firm's tax practice and slash overtime hours, even during tax season. "

SFP 89: Business model transformation with SJHL's Chet Buchman
This episode of the Small Firm Philosophy podcast features an interview with Chet Buchman, CPA, CGMA, managing partner of Kansas-based accounting firm Swindoll, Janzen, Hawk and Loyd, LLC (SJHL). In this discussion, Buchman describes his firm's multi-year journey to offering more advisory services, including the big mistake they made at the beginning and what they learned from it. He also explains

SFP 88: Advice for firms on BOI requirements, MAP Survey results
This episode of the Small Firm Philosophy podcast features an interview with Carl Peterson, CPA, AICPA & CIMA's vice president of small firm interests. Peterson addresses the new beneficial ownership information (BOI) reporting requirements and also shares his biggest takeaways from the 2023 AICPA & CIMA National Management of an Accounting Practice (MAP) Survey. The MAP Survey, like this podcast

SFP 87: A Revolution in 'right-sizing' a client base
This episode of the Small Firm Philosophy podcast features an interview with Sandy Johns, owner of Revolution Financial, a small accounting firm based in the Atlanta area. Johns discusses how she culled her firm's client roster to a manageable size and how doing so affected her well-being professionally and personally. SFP is produced by the AICPA & CIMA's firm practice management section, better

SFP #86: Five children, 3 businesses, 1 CPA's story
Nicole Davis isn't your typical CPA firm owner. She has five children, owns three businesses and has crafted a presence on social media including an account with more than 12,000 followers on X, formerly known as Twitter. She also never worked in public accounting before launching her firm, Butler Davis Tax & Accounting. How has Davis done all of this and what has she learned along the way? She s

SFP #85: Chatting about generative AI
There's been a buzz around artificial intelligence for years, but nothing like the swarm of interest generated by ChatGPT. Microsoft-backed research laboratory OpenAI launched ChatGPT in November 2022. By January, the large language generative AI chatbot had attracted more than 100 million users, making it the fastest-growing customer software application ever – but far from the only one. What

SFP #84: How to cut busy season hours in half (almost)
Johanna Sweaney Salt, CPA, CGMA, used to work 100 hours a week during busy season. As the founder and managing partner of Gray, Salt & Associates, LLP, she believed it was her responsibility to put in the time needed to make her small firm a success. Today, Joanna remains a full-time partner at the firm, but her son, Dalton Sweaney, CPA, is now the managing partner. His desire a few years ago to s

SFP 83: Defying description, this CPA firm is a real Dark Horse
A firm in a box. A franchise on steroids. The Uber (or Lyft) of CPA firms. To say that the business model of Dark Horse CPAs is difficult to describe is an understatement of the highest order. So exactly does Dark Horse do? What makes it unique? And what prompted CEO and co-founder Chase Birky to try a radically different business model? Find out as Lisa Simpson, the AICPA's vice president of Firm

SFP 82: Bots pose new threat to CPA firms
Roman Kepczyk, CPA.CITP, CGMA, director of firm technology strategy for Right Networks and author of the AICPA & CIMA's CPA cybersecurity checklist, joins the Small Firm Philosophy podcast to discuss current cyberthreats and what CPA firms should be doing to protect their data and networks. Host Jeff Drew also asks Roman a fun question about that technology he is most excited about, and Roman res

SFP 81: How to transform a partner compensation model
Incentivize the behaviors you want. That was the theory behind GRF CPAs & Advisors' decision to change its partner compensation model several years ago. Firm leaders knew that if they wanted their partners to operate as a cohesive team, they needed to stop paying partners in ways that drove individualistic behaviors. More than five years later, GRF President and Managing Partner Jackie Cardello, C

SFP 80: Tech experts on ChatGPT, RPA, security, FTX, Web 3.0
Chat bots that can write Excel macros. The internet's first evolutionary leap since the 1990's. And whatever happened to blockchain? Those are just a few of the topics covered by three top accounting technology experts during a special edition of the Small Firm Philosophy podcast, produced in partnership with the Journal of Accountancy podcast. This double-length episode features the first gatheri

SFP #79: How to protect digital assets from hackers
Many small accounting firms may not have heard much about digital assets beyond bitcoin and the FTX bankruptcy, but accountants have two big reasons to learn more about the topic. First, the acceptance of digital assets as payment has steadily grown among accounting firms and especially their clients. Second, cyberattacks are increasingly targeting digital assets. The combination of these trends m

SFP 78: One woman's journey from Africa to accounting firm ownership
Orumé Hays, CPA, CGMA, didn't exactly follow a traditional path to owning an accounting practice. From Africa to the Big Apple, she blazed a trail all her own. Raised in Nigeria, Hays moved to Miami with a college degree in sociology and anthropology and a budding career in modeling and acting. Her pursuit of Hollywood stardom peaked with a couple of appearances in the 1996 movie "The Birdcage"

SFP 77: The CPA's guide to technology (and tech gifts)
The CPA's guide to technology (and tech gifts) There are few, if any, people in the accounting space who know more about technology than Inspector Gadget. No, not the cartoon character with the go-go arms from the 1980s. The man wearing the trench coat in this case is David Cieslak, CPA.CITP, CGMA, executive vice president and chief cloud officer for RKL eSolutions and a popular speaker whose Insp
SFP 76: How to make busy season more fun and more productive
It's the holidays, that special time of the year when children wish for their dream gift and CPAs pray that the looming busy season won't be another nightmare. Rabecca Eunis, CPA, knows the feeling. As a new accountant working for her father's firm, Eunis learned to dread and despise tax season. The mad, miserable dash to Tax Day was so stressful that Eunis launched her own practice vowing that h
SFP 75: Two cyberthreats CPA firms should fear this Halloween
Ghosts, goblins and ghouls aren't the only scary things to watch out for this Halloween season. Hackers and criminal organizations are up to their old tricks -- and some new ones -- in their tireless efforts to breach your cyberdefenses and treat themselves to your computer networks and data. So what kinds of spooky schemes are haunting CPA firms? And what can practitioners do to protect themsel
SFP 74: What a CPA learned starting his own advisory firm
Launching an advisory firm after 20 years in public accounting requires courage, confidence and commitment. It also helps to get some business coaching and to focus on changing customer needs. Those are some of the lessons Zack Ryan, CPA, shares in this episode of the Small Firm Philosophy podcast. The founder of Value Forward Advisory explains how meeting regularly with business owners on a fixed
SFP 73: What firms should know about succession and M&A
Terrence Putney, CPA, managing director with Whitman Transition Advisors, is among the top advisers on accounting firm mergers nationwide. Over his 44-year career, Putney has been involved with hundreds of accounting firm M&A deals and also co-written more than 20 articles on succession-related issues for the Journal of Accountancy. In this episode of Small Firm Philosophy, Putney addresses succes
SFP 72: How MAP Survey results improve small firm management
The Private Companies Practice Section's National Management of an Accounting Practice (MAP) Survey gathers key metrics from thousands of U.S. firms of all sizes. In this episode of the Small Firm Philosophy podcast, Steven Bankler, CPA, shares how he and his small firm break down the survey results to build a better practice. Resources mentioned in this episode: National MAP Survey To learn mo
SFP #71: How RPA paid off for this accounting firm
Robotic Process Automation, or RPA, has been a buzzword in the accounting profession for several years. Despite that, many practitioners don't have a great grasp of what RPA is and what it can do for accountants. Wesley Hartman has spent much of the past eight years developing RPA solutions for midsize firm Kirsch Kohn Bridge (KKB), where he serves as director of technology. In this episode of the
CFOs and CPA firms: Common staff development challenges
CPA firms and the clients they serve often view the world through a different lens. Tom Hood, the AICPA's executive vice president of business engagement and growth, recently had the rare opportunity to engage both groups. In this episode of the Small Firm Philosophy podcast, Hood explores the common challenges – and shared solutions -- that CFOs and CPA face. Resources mentioned in this episode:
Survey says firms face many top issues
The AICPA's Private Companies Practice Section has been asking accounting firms to rank their top issues since 1997. But never has there been a list of concerns quite like the one produced by the 2022 CPA Firm Top Issues Survey. Listen in as two AICPA executives, Carl Peterson, CPA, CGMA, vice president of small firm interests, and Lisa Simpson, CPA, CGMA, VP of firm issues, offer their insights o
The secrets of selling your small firm
Loretta Tubiello-Harr, founder of Tubiello-Harr & Associates, LLC, was approaching retirement and set out to create an exit plan. What did it take for her to get her practice attractive to buyers, vet those potential sales, and finally execute a successful sale? Find out in this episode of the Small Firm Philosophy podcast from the AICPA's Private Companies' Practice Section (PCPS). Succession P
The secrets of selling your small firm
Loretta Tubiello-Harr, founder of Tubiello-Harr & Associates, LLC, was approaching retirement and set out to create an exit plan. What did it take for her to get her practice attractive to buyers, vet those potential sales, and finally execute a successful sale? Find out in this episode of the Small Firm Philosophy podcast from the AICPA's Private Companies' Practice Section (PCPS). Succession P
Volunteer for personal and professional growth
Dedicated volunteers play an essential role in helping the AICPA provide a more robust member experience. How can you get involved and what can you gain from the experience? Find out in this episode of the Small Firm Philosophy podcast as Erin Roche, CPA, CGMA, team leader with Elliott CPA Group, shares the personal and professional development opportunities she's experienced through volunteering.
Ransomware attack: One small firm's worst nightmare
Patrice Mills, CPA, was sunning herself on a Florida beach when she received an alarming phone call. All of her client files had been seized in a ransomware attack, and cybercriminals were demanding payment to release them. Listen in as Mills recounts this experience and shares best practices for keeping your firm's data safe. PCPS resources mentioned in this episode: PCPS CPA cybersecurity chec
CPAs: Not boring to cybercriminals
Phishing schemes, ransomware attacks, and data breaches are on the rise. CPA firms and their client's data are prime targets. Listen in as Roman Kepczyk, director of Firm Technology Strategy with Right Networks and author of Digitally Speaking, a PCPS exclusive publication, shares how you can protect your firm's data from cybercriminals. Resources mentioned in this episode: CPA cybersecurity che
M&A best practices: Insights from a small and large firm perspective
The AICPA's Private Companies Practice Section Succession Planning Survey finds that 44% of solo and sole practitioners plan to retire soon. David Shealy, CPA, Founder of the Shealy Group, was approaching retirement age and set out to find an exit plan. Brandon Miller, CPA, President & CEO of HW&Co, was actively seeking growth through smart acquisitions. Listen to this episode of the Small Firm Ph
Advancing diversity in a small firm: A business imperative
Public accounting Diversity, Equity, and Inclusion (DEI) initiatives are gaining momentum. Oftentimes, it can be the larger firms making the headlines, but small firms need not be overlooked. Listen to this episode of the Small Firm Philosophy podcast as Orume Hays, CPA, managing director of Hays CPA LLC, shares her first-hand experiences promoting diversity in a small firm. Resources mentioned in
Using client continuance strategies to control busy season
On this episode of the Small Firm Philosophy podcast, you'll hear a clip from the AICPA's November 18th Town Hall series featuring the AICPA's Lisa Simpson, VP of Firm Services, Carl Peterson, VP of Small firms, Bill Pirolli, AICPA Chair and CPA.com's CEO Erik Asgeirsson. This panel of experts discuss client acceptance and continuation decisions small firms can make before busy season. Resources
Surviving tax season: Top strategies to prepare your small firm
The 2021 tax season is fast approaching. Is your firm ready? Listen to this episode of the Small Firm Philosophy podcast as Deb Rood, CPA and Risk Control Consulting Director at CNA shares best practices and resources to help your firm prepare for a successful tax season, this year and beyond. Resources mentioned in this episode: Surviving Tax Season Checklist Client continuance evaluation tool
Right-size your client base, improve your small firm
Burned out? Not enough hours in the day? In this episode of the Small Firm Philosophy podcast, Carrie Steffen, Co-Founder and President of the Whetstone Group, discusses how client acceptance and continuation policies can right-size your client base and positively impact your firm's people and profitability. PCPS resources include: Client acceptance evaluation tool Client continuance evaluation
A sole proprietor's journey to building a better practice
Creating a successful practice that meets your clients' needs while providing satisfying and meaningful work for you and your staff requires focus, discipline, and time. Listen to this episode of the Small Firm Philosophy podcast as Jack A. Heil, CPA shares lessons learned while journeying from the Big 8 to a sole proprietor that loves what he does. PCPS resources mentioned in this episode: C
Proposed changes to Peer Review standards and the small firm impact
The AICPA's Peer Review Board (PRB) is responsible for developing and issuing Standards for Performing and Reporting on Peer Reviews (standards). Listen as PRB Board Member Dawn Brenner, CPA breaks down the exposure draft proposing changes to the standards and discusses the potential implications for small firms. Mentioned in this episode: Clarification of AICPA Standards for Performing and Repo
Top tax issues impacting small firms
The Private Companies Practice Section (PCPS) CPA Firm Top Issues Survey identified tax-related challenges affecting small firms. Listen as April Walker, CPA, CGMA Lead Manager, Tax Section and host of the Tax Odyssey podcast discusses these tax issues and what you can do to address these challenges. Resources mentioned in this episode: Resources to address CPA firm top issues Client Evaluation
Small firms face familiar challenges in unprecedented times
Small firms face familiar challenges in unprecedented times What's keeping you up at night as a firm owner? Listen to this clip from the AICPA's September 2nd Town Hall series as the AICPA's Lisa Simpson, VP of Firm Services, Carl Peterson, VP of Small Firms, Barry Melancon, CEO, and CPA.com's CEO Erik Asgeirsson discuss the results from the 2021 CPA Firm Top Issues Survey. 2021 Top Issues comme
Technology: Oxygen for your small firm
"Technology: it's just oxygen. It's the tools that are available to us and some of us breathe it better than others." Listen as Byron Patrick, CPA and Manager with Botkeeper shares his take on technology in public accounting and what you can do as a small firm to stay in the know. Resources mentioned: 2021 Top Issues commentary: Familiar challenges in extraordinary times Resources to address CP
Engage your staff and increase accountability in your small firm
"The average person spends about two hours per day in drama…and lack of accountability is one of the sources of drama". Listen to this excerpt from the August 12th Town Hall Series as Reality-Based Leadership's Alex Dorr joins Lisa Simpson, the AICPA's VP of Firm Services and Eric Asgeirsson, CPA.com's CEO, to discuss workplace drama and how to create an engaged and accountable firm culture. Resou
Developing the next generation of small firm leadership
The AICPA's Private Companies Practice Section (PCPS) CPA Firm Top Issues Survey has identified developing the next generation of firm leadership as a pressing concern for practitioners. Hear how Brent Forbush, CPA Managing Partner of Forbush and Associates, leads the way with staff development in his small firm and how you can start today in your practice. Resources mentioned: PCPS Firm Competen
Less complex entities in the limelight for small firms
The International Auditing and Assurance Standards Board (IAASB) has issued an exposure draft on auditing the financial statements of Less Complex Entities (LCEs). Listen to the latest episode of the Small Firm Philosophy podcast as Samantha Bowling, CPA, CGMA Partner with Garbelman Winslow CPAs provides a high-level overview of the exposure draft, the potential implications for small firms, and w
Protect your small firm with a Practice Continuation Agreement
As highlighted in the Succession Planning Survey, small firms know they need a Practice Continuation Agreement (PCA) yet less than 10% have one in place. Listen as Mike Shost, CPA discusses key takeaways and best practices from his experience constructing and executing PCAs in his small firm. PCPS resources mentioned in this episode: Practice Continuation Agreements: A Practice Survival Kit PCP
Quality management in the spotlight for small firms
The ASB's proposed quality management standards are open for comments through Aug. 31. But small firms can get a head start on understanding the implications and ensuring ongoing A&A quality. In our latest episode of the Small Firm Philosophy podcast, Dustin Verity, CPA, CGMA Founder & Managing Partner Verity CPAs provides a high-level overview of the proposed standards, the potential implications
Hitting the right notes in small firm client service
How did small firms keep up with the Paycheck Protection Program (PPP), Economic Injury Disaster Loan (EIDL) and other business relief programs to support their clients' needs? Listen as Steven "The Singing CPA" Zelin, CPA shares how he and his staff educated themselves and assisted their clients during the pandemic and beyond. Resources mentioned in this episode: AICPA Town Hall Series SBA Pay
Small firm tax season recap
How did small firms cope with another tax season layered with business relief efforts, COVID, and filing extensions? Listen as Carl Peterson, CPA, CGMA, the AICPA's Vice President of Small Firms, shares practitioner insights into tax season and where small firms are heading now. PCPS resources mentioned in this episode: Register for the June 23 Small Firm Update Take the Top Issues Survey today!
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