Episodi
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Firms are facing major capacity and talent challenges—and many are turning to offshoring, or global resourcing, to keep up. But how do you make it work?
In this episode of Futureproof, GRF CPAs and Advisors partner Tricia Katebini shares how her firm built a global team that’s fully integrated into their culture and client service model.
Whether you’re just getting started or refining your approach, this episode is packed with practical insights to help you navigate the future of talent.
Resources:
Tricia Katebini, CPA, MBA, Partner, Audit and Assurance at GRF CPAs and AdvisorsIndia GCC Landscape Report – The 5 Year Journey
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AI adoption is surging, but most companies struggle to scale its value. Tech expert and be radical co-founder Pascal Finette helps leaders navigate the evolving technology landscape—and today, he’s breaking down what businesses get wrong about AI and how to get it right.
With nearly 30 years in tech, including leadership roles at Google, eBay, and Mozilla, Pascal shares practical strategies for integrating AI, overcoming challenges, and driving real impact.
Listen in to learn how to harness AI for growth, efficiency, and innovation.
Resources:
Pascal Finette websitebe radical Boston Consulting Group (BCG) report, "Where’s the Value in AI?"McKinsey & Company report, "AI in the workplace: A report for 2025"
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Episodi mancanti?
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In this episode, I speak with Mark Koziel as he steps into his new role as CEO of the AICPA, succeeding Barry Melancon, who led the organization for nearly 30 years. Mark shares his vision for the profession, bringing a global perspective from his experience at both the AICPA and Allinial Global.
We discuss key challenges like talent shortages, technology, and regulatory shifts, as well as the importance of community and keeping the profession strong for future generations. From private equity risks to new opportunities, Mark sees every challenge as a chance for growth.
Whether you're a CPA, student, or leadership enthusiast, this conversation is packed with valuable insights.
Resources:
Mark Koziel LinkedIn ProfileJournal of Accountancy article, "Mark Koziel to become CEO of the Association of International Certified Professional Accountants", by Kim Nilsen
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Client Advisory Services (CAS) has become one of the most profitable and in-demand service lines in accounting, with revenues surging 17% in two years. Amy Bridges, Senior Manager of Practice Development at CPA.com, unpacks key findings from the latest CAS Benchmark Survey, revealing how top firms achieve $250,000 in median net client fees per professional and why 90% have moved away from hourly billing. From pricing strategies to scaling advisory services, this conversation offers actionable insights for firms looking to maximize CAS growth.
Resources:
CPA.com’s 2024 CAS Benchmark SurveyAmy Bridges, LinkedIn Profile
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Maryland's General Assembly is in session, facing a significant budget deficit. In this episode, State Senator Brian Feldman, CPA, breaks down the tough decisions ahead, including the potential taxation of professional services. He emphasizes why legislative advocacy is crucial for CPAs, who can influence tax policy and business decisions. Senator Feldman also explains how Maryland’s legislative process is accessible, offering CPAs a chance to make a real impact. We also discuss how Maryland’s economic, energy, and environmental policies will shape the future, making it vital for CPAs to be involved.
Resources:
Brian J. Feldman, Maryland State SenatorMACPA's annual CPA Day in AnnapolisMACPA editorial, "Fiscal concerns dominate Maryland's 2025 legislative session", by Bill Sheridan
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What’s next for CPAs after the election? I sit down with Lauren Pfingstag Vahey, AICPA’s Director of Congressional and Political Affairs, to explore the impact of a new president and Congress on the profession. We discuss the future of the Tax Cuts and Jobs Act, potential new tax legislation, and the recent IRS funding boost from the Inflation Reduction Act. Lauren also shares insights on the possible restructuring of the PCAOB under SEC oversight and offers advice on how CPAs can stay actively engaged in legislative advocacy. Tune in to this essential conversation to navigate the evolving political and regulatory landscape.
Resources
Lauren Pfingstag Vahey LinkedIn Profile AICPA Congressional and Political Affairs Team
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AI is the new social media—exciting, risky, and in need of guardrails. In this episode, we explore what makes a good AI policy and how to navigate the powerful tools reshaping our world. From confidentiality to data reliability, we cover key considerations for using AI responsibly.
Joining the conversation is digital strategist Maddie Grant from Propel. She shares insights on crafting effective AI policies, testing their strength, and understanding where we stand in this fast-moving AI era. Tune in for essential guidance on shaping AI policies that protect and empower your organization.
Resources
Maddie Grant, Culture Designer & Digital Strategist at PropelJourney of Accountancy article, "Generative AI and risks to CPA firms" by Sarah Beckett Ference, CPA
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In this episode, we explore how your business model might be evolving, whether you realize it or not. Technology, demographics, and regulation are driving change across industries, and for business and CPA firm leaders, the big question is: how do we stay relevant?
I’m joined by Lisa Simpson, VP of Firm Services at the AICPA, to discuss the "Transforming Your Business Model" initiative, launched by the AICPA's Private Companies Practice Section (PCPS). This project helps firms identify outdated aspects of their business model and offers solutions across five key areas: governance, strategy, service offerings, talent, and technology. We take a deeper look at how this transformation can shape the future of your firm.
Resources:
Lisa Simpson, VP of Firm Services, AICPA LinkedIn ProfileTransforming Your Business Model by AICPA's Private Companies Practice Section (PCPS)
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In this episode, we tackle the talent puzzle and discuss steps to secure the future of the accounting profession. I sit down with Lexy Kessler, Vice Chairman of AICPA and Mid-Atlantic Managing Partner at Aprio and member of the National Pipeline Advisory Group (NPAG), to dive into the finalized "Accounting Talent Strategy Report" and its bold solutions to the profession’s talent challenges. Lexy shares insights on how the report’s key themes have been well-received, and we explore trends like three-year bachelor's programs and shifting education preferences.
We also break down the report’s six recommendations, from retooling education to evolving business models. Lexy also speaks to the importance of collaboration and grassroots efforts like the National Pipeline Pledge.
Tune in to hear our full conversation about this report and it's implications for the future of our profession.
Resources
NPAG’s Accounting Talent Strategy Report Lexy Kessler CPA, CGMAProposed “CPA Competency-Based Experience Pathway” from AICPA and NASBA National Pipeline Pledge
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In this episode, we discuss the need to change the narrative around what it truly means to be a CPA.
I’m joined by Carla McCall, the 2024-25 Chair of the AICPA, to explore how the accounting profession can attract new talent by focusing on purpose and passion rather than just tasks and hours. By highlighting the “why” behind accounting—what makes it exciting, meaningful, and impactful—we can inspire the next generation to see the true value of a career in this field.
Carla’s views perfectly align with the MACPA’s “Purpose of a CPA” campaign, which encourages CPAs to share their personal stories and what drives them. We also discuss her plans for the year, insights on the industry’s future, and her leadership approach. Don’t miss this insightful conversation with a leader committed to showcasing the true purpose and value of the CPA profession.
Resources:
Carla McCall, CPA, CGMA, Managing Partner at AAFCPAsJournal of Accountancy article, "New AICPA chair: ‘We need to promote the cool work we do", by Mari SagedalMACPA's Purpose of a CPA: Share Your Why
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This week, we're tackling a challenging yet crucial topic: when and how to fire a client. Some clients can end up costing more in time, effort, and frustration than the value they provide. Letting them go can sometimes be the best decision for your business. However, this process is not to be taken lightly—there are numerous pitfalls to avoid and best practices to follow. Thankfully, there are plenty of resources to make it easier.
Joining me this week is Robert Albertini, an account manager at Aon, which has been a longtime partner of MACPA. With over 25 years of industry experience, particularly in professional liability, Robert will share his insights and expertise on managing client relationships and knowing when it’s time to part ways.
Resources:
MACPA Preferred ProvidersRobert Albertini LinkedIn ProfileAon partner landing page
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In this episode, we honor the remarkable career of Alvin Katz, Co-Founder & Director of KatzAbosch, a firm he helped build from the ground up in 1969 into one of the largest CPA and business consulting organizations in the Mid-Atlantic. As Alvin retires after 55 years at the helm, he shares his journey, the evolution of the profession, and the lasting impact of KatzAbosch on the Maryland community. Join us for an insightful conversation on building a lasting firm, embracing change, and the future of accounting and finance.
Resources
Alvin Katz, Co-Founder & Director of KatzAboschAlvin Katz LinkedIn Profile
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This week's episode is about TRUST. We must rely on trust as we navigate change.
Our guest is Barry Melancon, who will be retiring as long-time President and CEO of AICPA as of December 31, 2024. Barry has been the "face" of the profession for decades.
This transition is another example of great change in our profession. Since Barry has been leading change, and has been teaching our profession to navigate shifts, we are all better prepared even for this particular moment in our profession.
Join us as we talk about the state of the profession, what's next for CPAs, and what's next for Barry himself.
A true visionary and thought leader, Barry gives us his wisdom on trust, change, and the future.
Resources
Preferred Providers: macpa.orgAICPA& CIMA: aicpa-cima.comBarry Maloncon on LinkedIn: linkedin.com/in/barry-melancon-cpa-cgma/
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This week, we're diving back into the world of AI to uncover some practical ways this technology can take over tasks that are consuming too much of your time. At a recent MACPA Town Hall, 64% of accounting professionals admitted they haven't tried generative AI tools. Many might think they're not using AI at all, but the reality is they're likely interacting with it daily through virtual assistants, shopping recommendations, music playlists, facial recognition, and more.
To help us embrace AI more actively, we speak with Ashley Francis, a seasoned CPA, Microsoft MVP, featured speaker, and passionate AI advocate. Ashley provides insights and tips on seamlessly incorporating AI tools into your daily workflow. Through her newsletter and series of classes, "Kitchen Table Automations", she simplifies the integration of AI, making it more accessible and user-friendly for accounting professionals.
Listen to gain some practical, actionable advice to harness AI in your professional life.
Resources
Harvard Business Review article, "How People Are Really Using GenAI" by Marc Zao-Sanders Mashable article, "I spent a week using AI tools in my daily life. Here's how it went." by Cecily Mauran Ashley Francis, CPA: LinkedIn ProfileThe Francis Group, PLLCKitchen Table Automations Newsletter
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A decade ago, there were predictions that certain accounting jobs would be replaced by automation. Now, in the age of AI, we're still here and thriving. Today's conversation focuses on how we can collaborate with technology to enhance our work and deliver greater value to clients.
To delve into this topic, I spoke with Andrew Hatfield, Co-Founder and Chief Growth Officer of SafeSend, a long-time partner of MACPA. He and his team have released a paper discussing the role of AI, the importance of strengthening tech stacks in accounting firms, the shift from e-sign to e-file, the benefits of integrations and APIs, and the concept of a "single pane of glass"—a unified management console displaying data from multiple sources.
Andrew and I discussed how client expectations have evolved, and how the technologies and predictions in SafeSend's paper can improve relationships between firms and their clients, as well as the CPA's role in this transformation.
Resources:
SafeSend paper, "Top 7 Predictions for Tax Automation in 2024" by Andrew Hatfield & teamSafeSendAndrew Hatfield LinkedIn ProfileOxford Martin School article, "The Future of Employment: How susceptible are jobs to computerisation?" by Carl Benedikt Frey & Michael OsborneThomson Reuters report, "2024 generative AI in professional services"CPA Practice Advisor article, "Most Tax Pros, Corporate and Public, Believe AI Should Be in Their Toolbox" by Isaac M. O'Bannon
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Today we're touching on the AI subject once again - something we'll likely be talking about for some time given the projections about how this technology will turn the accounting profession on it's head. A recent Thomson Reuters report shows many within our industry are already using AI tools and there is growing optimism about AI's role in the industry.
While many accounting and finance professionals feel prepared to integrate AI, a significant number of CPAs remain unfamiliar with the technology. These professionals will need knowledgeable leaders to guide them. One such leader is with us today: Kacee Johnson, Vice President of Strategy & Innovation at CPA.com. Kacee will share her insights on AI in accounting, discussing CPA.com’s generative AI toolkit, practical use cases, initial steps for CPAs, and potential challenges in adopting AI technologies.
Join us for an insightful conversation to gain valuable guidance on leveraging AI in your accounting practices.
Resources
Thomson Reuters report, "2024 generative AI in professional services"CPA Practice Advisor article, "Most Tax Pros, Corporate and Public, Believe AI Should Be in Their Toolbox", by Isaac M. O'BannonDeloitte Center for Controllership pollCPA Practice Advisory article, "C-Suite is Optimistic About GenAI Use Within Finance and Accounting, Deloitte Says", by Jason BramwellKacee Johnson AICPA profileAICPA digital resource, "CPA.com Generative AI Toolkit"
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In this episode, we're continuing our focus on the pipeline issue but this time we're looking at it's impact on corporate America specifically. Companies, big and small, are citing a shortage of skilled accounting personnel for weaknesses in financial reporting controls. This deficiency is a significant predictor of potential restatements of financial statements, affecting not only CPAs and firms but also investors.
Dr. Rebecca Hann, Assistant Dean of Doctoral Programs at the Robert H. Smith School of Business, discusses her recent study, "The Price of an Accountant Shortage: Evidence from Job Vacancy Duration and Internal Control Weaknesses." We explore the study's key findings, including correlations between the shortage of accounting talent and the frequency and severity of internal control deficiencies, as well as the duration of job vacancies in accounting roles. Additionally, we consider the role of purpose, the "why" behind we do, in addressing this issue.
Tune in for this crucial conversation on the profound impact of the accounting profession's challenges.
Resources
Wall Street Journal article, "The Accountant Shortage Is Showing Up in Financial Statements" by Mark MaurerAccounting Today article, "The U.S. is short 340,000 accountants—just look at the wave of earnings report mistakes" by Jo Constantz UMD Robert H. Smith School of Business, Dr. Rebecca Hann webpage Dr. Rebecca Hann Scholarly PapersDr. Rebecca Hann LinkedIn Profile
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This week, we're diving into a well known, critical issue gripping our profession: the shortage of CPAs. It's a widespread challenge impacting businesses, causing staffing gaps, burnout, and compromised client service. The scarcity of expertise has escalated workloads, hindered recruitment and retention, and even led some firms to decline work due to insufficient manpower. To combat this, many organizations are resorting to measures like increasing compensation and offering more flexible work arrangements. The profession is undergoing a transformation to adapt and survive.
The ramifications extend beyond the accounting realm, influencing how businesses operate at large. Solutions are being sought across various fronts, including regulation, education, and cultural shifts. At the forefront of these discussions is our guest, Lexy Kessler, Mid-Atlantic Regional Leader and Partner at Aprio as well as a former chair of MACPA Board of Directors, who now chairs the National Pipeline Advisory Group. This group is spearheading efforts to formulate a unified strategy to address the talent shortage, leveraging unbiased research and stakeholder input. They've launched a national survey to gather insights and ideas for tackling this issue head-on. In our conversation, we delve into the progress of this initiative, its timeline, potential outcomes, and the individual CPA's role in bolstering the pipeline
Resources:
Financial Executive International article, "Navigating the Accounting Talent Shortage: Strategies for Business Growth and Efficiency" by Justin SmithForbes article, "Accountants Are Turning Away Work—Hurting Firms And Small Businesses" by Hitendra PatilCFO Dive article, "Auditors say accountant shortage ramps up work pressure: CAQ" by Jim TysonLexy Kessler, CPA, CGMA, Mid-Atlantic Regional Leader & Partner at AprioLexy Kessler LinkedIn ProfileNational Pipeline Advisory Group: Pipeline Survey
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We've spent a good amount of time discussing new technology (A.I. in particular) and what it all means for CPAs and our profession. However, amidst these discussions, we've overlooked the strategies for implementing broader changes, including new technology, ideas, mindsets, and work processes.
After browsing numerous articles, I came across a resonating approach: asking our organization, "What do we need? What problems are we trying to solve?" Then, we develop a plan, train others, and launch. This problem-focused strategy prioritizes identifying our challenges and leveraging new technologies to address them.
My guest is believes in this same approach: Will Hill, founder and owner of Will Hill Consults, a coaching and consulting firm serving the tax and accounting profession. Will emphasizes that understanding the problems we aim to solve can lead us to realize that the solution may not be what we thought (i.e. A.I.). The journey begins with identifying the problem, not the technology. Listen as we discuss the questions critical for our internal teams and clients.
Resources:
Will Hill ConsultsCalculated Research & Technology (CR-T) article, "How to Implement New Technology in Your Organization"Big Think article, "7 Essential Strategies for Adopting New Technologies"Information Week article, "4 Tips for C-Suite Leaders to Accelerate Tech Wealth", by Andy Tay
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My guest this week is Dr. Britt Andreatta, who has been a guest of this podcast before (check out ep. 163). Dr. Andreatta is a internationally-recognized thought leader and author who creates brain science-based solutions for today's challenges. Her most recent book is called, "Wired to Become: The Brain Science of Finding Your Purpose, Creating Meaningful Work, and Achieving Your Potential".
Her work relates directly to the "why" behind accounting - our purpose as CPAs. When it comes to the talent shortage, we believe connecting students and young professionals to that purpose will help grow our profession and secure our future. By re-centering on our core values and making our work engaging and meaningful, we can attract individuals who are eager to make a real difference.
Join me in a conversation with Dr. Andreatta, an expert in the research on the significance of discovering one's purpose. We'll explore how our profession stands to gain from a renewed emphasis on the purpose behind our work.
Resources
Britt Andreatta website"Wired to Become: The Brain Science of Finding Your Purpose, Creating Meaningful Work, and Achieving Your Potential" by Britt AndreattaCPA Practice Advisory article, "Where Have All The Accountants Gone?" by Garrett Wagner
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