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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 This project helps firms identify outdated aspects of their business model and offers solutions across five key areas: governance, strategy, service offerings, talent, and technology.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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We've had some great conversations recently about A.I.; what it means for our profession and how to integrate it into our work. This week, I talk to Jason Staats, who has been on the leading edge of A.I. and has a wealth of knowledge to share with CPAs about this new technology.
Jason's main message about A.I. is that as groundbreaking and game-changing as A.I. is, it doesn't necessarily mean our profession will change radically at it's core. A.I. is a tool we can use in service of what our profession is charged to do.
CPAs do what we're trained to do - that will not change. What we do need to do is ramp up our curiosity about these new tools and how they will allow us to better serve our customers. Instead of trying to force A.I into every aspect of our work, a better approach comes by asking what problem we are trying to solve and how at all can A.I. can help.
Resources:
CPA Australian article, "Generative AI in business: how to navigate the ethics" by Susan MuldowneyJason Staats LinkedIn ProfileJason Daily PodcastJason Daily YouTube Channel
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In this episode, we welcome another longtime friend of MACPA, leadership expert and author of the new book, "This is NOT a Leadership Book: 20 Rules for Success", Emmanuel Gobillot. Emmanuel has been my go to source for all things leadership for many years. I speak to him about leadership as it relates to recruitment and retention, which is top of mind for everyone these days. Where do we find new CPAs? How can we get students interested in accounting again?
It's important for leaders to express why our profession is important and why our work matters - that "why" is what is going to get young people excited about a future career in accounting. The focus of many employees entering the workforce is their role in society, their purpose, and finding institutions that match their outlook. Those in leadership need to personify that "why" and start changing the narrative about this profession. Begin by understanding your organization's higher purpose; it should be aspirational and authentic.
Emmanuel spends a lot of time in his latest book speaking to authenticity, why it actually might be overrated UNLESS it's inline with your intent, your purpose, and the needs of your team. Listen in as we dive deep into his 20 rules to success and more.
Resources:
Emmanuel Gobillot website | LinkedIn | XThis is NOT a Leadership Book, by Emmanuel GobillotForbes article, How To Attract And Retain Top Executive Talent Through Purpose, by Karen Greenbaum
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We're once again joined by Pascal Finnette, co-founder and chief heretic of be radical. Be radical is a guiding force for organizations seeking to restructure in anticipation of future challenges, and it inspires individuals to evolve into leaders prepared for the demands of tomorrow's world. I've engaged in numerous discussions with Pascal about shifting mindsets and embracing disruption. In this episode, we delve deeper into the realm of artificial intelligence, seamlessly continuing our exploration from the previous episode featuring Don Tomoff on how CPAs can initiate their journey with A.I.
Pascal recently delivered a thought-provoking address at the digital CPA conference, asserting, "Companies and individuals leveraging A.I. won't just outperform those who refrain from its use; they will exponentially surpass them." Similar sentiments have echoed lately, urging us to harness the power of A.I. to our professional advantage. The expectations surrounding the transformative impact of this technology on our work, lives, and the world are immense.
While most c-suite executives anticipate cost savings this year through A.I.'s contributions to increased productivity, streamlined operations, improved customer service, and enhanced I.T., it's essential to recognize that A.I. cannot entirely replace human expertise in addressing the intricacies of tax and financial assessment problems. Many of the cutting-edge technologies developed by vendors are still works in progress.
Despite ongoing refinement needs, the utilization and potential of A.I. are experiencing rapid growth, making it an undeniable game changer. In my conversation with Pascal, we explore how A.I. has already reshaped our work and lifestyles. We discuss the challenge of regulating A.I., the first steps CPAs should consider when integrating A.I. into their business, and focus on what isn't going to change.
Resources:
Pascal Finette websitebe radical. websiteBoston Consulting Group article, "From Potential to Profit with GenAI" by Jessica Apotheker, Sylvain Duranton, Vladimir Lukic, Nicolas de Bellefonds, Sesh Iyer, Olivier Bouffault, and Romain de LaubierZDNet article, "Using ChatGPT for Accounting? You May Want to Think Again" by Rajiv Rao
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It's great time to talk about A.I. - the 1 year anniversary of ChatGPT just passed which set this whole artificial intelligence ride in motion. While A.I. has been around since the 1950s, it's exponential growth is really marked this past year both with the release of ChatGPT and Google's announcement of their own A.I. model, Gemini. Not long after, lawmakers in the European Union approved the A.I. Act which sets a new global benchmark for countries seeking to harness the benefits of A.I. while trying to protect against it's possible risks such as automating jobs, speaking misinformation, and endangering national security.
While I was at the 2023 Digital CPA Conference, I gained some great tips from sources about how A.I. "newbies" can get started in meaningful and productive ways. Here are some simple steps from keynote speaker, Pascal Finette:
Learn about it - simple enough but important to fill the gap between what we know and what we should know (listening to this episode is a great start)Start small and build projects quickly - learn firsthand what is possible with this technologyApply your experience to larger projects - use those smaller projects to inform what you can do with larger projects (crawl. walk. run.)Another step-by-step resource to get you started is the "Generative A.I. Toolkit" for CPAs, recently released by CPA.com, which includes 7 steps for building your A.I. strategy:
Experiment Focus on the near term Consider client expectations Research what solution providers are buildingDefine acceptable usePut the technology's best feature to workEnsure that humans maintain a key role in the processThese tips are a great foundation for our episode this week as I speak with Don Tomoff, Director at Invenio Advisors, LLC and longtime friend of MACPA. Don shares his wealth of knowledge and experience in the field of A.I. and explains which steps CPAs should take right from the outset.
Resources
Wired article, "Google’s Gemini Is the Real Start of the Generative AI Boom" by Will KnightGenerative A.I. Toolkit from CPA.comDon Tomoff, LinkedIn Profile
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This week, we have a longtime friend on the show, Jack Ciesielski, CFA, CPA, MACPA member and owner of investment research firm R.G. Associates. Jack was recently quoted in a Wall Street Journal article about former inspectors who are calling for updates in the U.S. public-company auditing process. There are claims that while inspections are a useful tool to detect potential deficiencies in public companies, the reports are limited in scope, lacking details, and not released in a timely process. I speak to Jack about the PCAOB's investor advisory group - what it is and what it does, along with some of the biggest issues related to auditing that investors are concerned about. He also shares his thoughts about the issues presented in the WSJ article and what should be done to better help investors. Listen in to this timely conversation!
Resources:
R.G. Associates, Inc. Jack Ciesielski LinkedIn ProfileWall Street Journal article, "Former Inspectors of Public-Company Audits Say Process Needs Retooling", by Mark MaurerPCAOB SPOTLIGHT, Staff Update and Preview of 2022 Inspection Observations
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This week's conversation is all about leadership, or more exactly "reality-based leadership". As we know, there's always drama in the workplace between management and other team members which can lead to a loss of enthusiasm for work and trust. I speak to Alex Dorr, VP of People Evolution about the most comment causes of workplace drama, the role leaders play in alleviating these issues, and what CPA leaders should be doing to get past this drama. Listen as we talk about all the stuff that goes beyond the water cooler.
Resources
Reality-Based Leadership WebsiteAlex Dorr LinkedIn ProfileFast Company article, "These are the most common roots of workplace drama" by Patti Perez
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This week, we meet a new leader for new times: Okorie Ramsey, the new chair of AICPA. He's a CPA, CGMA, and currently the VP of SOX at Kaiser Foundation Health Plan, Inc. and Hospitals.
Okorie plans to continue to build upon the platform of the most recent past chair of AICPA, Anoop Mehta, by helping others grow personally and professionally, driving DE&I initiatives and preserving trust in the profession. In addition, he plans to face our newest challenges, namely the rapid advancement of technology and our continuing challenge of filling our talent pipeline - making sure our profession remains viable.
With these challenges in mind, Okorie has a 3-pronged agenda:
Innovation to advance the professionInstilling integrity and trust into sustainabilitySupporting the next generation and giving them advanced opportunities to succeedI was fortunate enough to dive into these 3 priorities in depth with Okorie, discussing what the future holds for accounting & finance professionals.
Resources
Okorie Ramsey, CPA, CGMA, PMP, NACD.DC Linkedin ProfileAICPA-CIMA news article, "New AICPA Chair Looks to Foster Innovation and the Next Generation"
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