Accounting Influencers Podcast

Tech – A Force for Good or the Death of Accountants? In this episode of the Accounting Influencers Podcast, host Rob Brown delves into the critical topic of technology’s impact on the accounting profession. With automation, AI, and machine learning reshaping how accountants work, the big question is: Is tech a savior or a job killer?

Rob breaks down what this technological revolution means for accountants today and in the future, exploring both the opportunities and the risks. For firms and professionals who embrace these tools, the future looks bright. But for those who resist? The outlook may not be so promising.

Key Takeaways:

AI & Automation’s Impact on the Profession: While some accounting tasks are being automated, the shift opens doors for higher-value, advisory roles that AI can’t replicate yet.

The Value of Soft Skills: As automation takes over manual tasks, accountants who focus on client relationships and strategic thinking will thrive.

The Need for Tech Adoption: Firms that invest in and adopt the right technology will remain competitive, while those that don’t risk being left behind.

Leadership’s Role in Guiding Tech Transformation: Leaders must set an example by embracing tech and fostering a learning culture within their firms.

If you’re serious about future-proofing your career and firm, now is the time to take action. Embrace the changes, invest in technology, and focus on developing the skills that will set you apart. Drop your thoughts in the comments or email us with your stories about how your firm is handling the tech revolution in accounting. Don't forget to subscribe and share this episode with your colleagues who need to hear this important conversation!

The Accounting Influencers Podcast (AIP) is aimed at accounting firm leaders, managers and partners looking to build their executive presence, influence and credibility both internally and externally. The show focuses on helping professionals strengthen their personal brand, stay informed about industry changes, and navigate disruptive forces affecting accounting business models and trends. The content includes solo insights from host Rob Brown as well as interviews or panel discussions with industry leaders. Check out the show on your preferred podcast app or platform, or go to the Accounting Influencers YouTube channel for all of the episodes in video format. https://youtu.be/lsJS9hxhv5E

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The Accounting Influencers Podcast, hosted by Rob Brown, is one of the world's leading shows for accounting leaders, professionals, finance specialists, software vendors, tech providers and influencers.

Thanks to our sponsors:

ADVANCETRACK OUTSOURCING. Transform your accounting firm with AdvanceTrack. Our top-tier offshoring solutions free your team from mundane tasks, allowing you to focus on growth and client engagement. Experience seamless scalability and expert support. Visit advancetrack.com and elevate your practice today. https://www.advancetrack.com

ACCOUNTEX. Bringing the accounting world together with UK and international events for the accounting and tech world. https://www.accountex.co.uk

If you'd like to sponsor the show and elevate your brand with our audience, reach out to show host Rob Brown on LinkedIn and his team will reach out to fix up a chat to explore.

https://www.linkedin.com/in/therobbrown

You can also check out all shows on the Accounting Influencers YouTube Channel:

https://bit.ly/AI-youtube

Conferences are back, but are you truly getting value from them? In this episode of the Accounting Influencers Podcast, host Rob Brown dives into 10 powerful strategies to ensure your time, money, and energy at accounting and tech conferences translate into real returns. Whether you're a leader, manager, or influencer in an accounting firm, these tips will help you build your personal brand, strengthen your network, and find actionable insights to bring back to your team.

If you've ever left a conference wondering if it was worth it, this episode is for you. Rob shares practical advice on setting clear goals, networking with purpose, evaluating tech solutions, and ensuring your learnings translate into real business outcomes.

What You’ll Learn in This Episode:

• Why accounting professionals often fail to get ROI from conferences—and how you can avoid common mistakes.
• The importance of setting clear objectives before attending any event.
• How to research speakers and attendees to target meaningful connections.
• Why being strategic about networking and participation is key to standing out.
• How to leverage conference tech tools for scheduling, learning, and staying engaged.
• Actionable tips for sharing knowledge with your team to maximize firm-wide impact.
• The importance of evaluating conference success against your initial objectives.

Who Should Listen?

This episode is a must-listen for:

• Accounting leaders, managers, and influencers looking to maximize the value of conferences.
• HR and talent professionals seeking to enhance recruitment and retention strategies.
• Anyone in accounting interested in building their personal brand and strengthening their network.

Quotes from the Episode:

• “Are you wasting time and money at conferences? It’s time to change that.”
• “Networking isn’t about how many people you meet—it’s about who remembers you and why.”
• “Every conference is an opportunity to amplify your personal brand and influence.”

Call to Action:

Follow Accounting Influencers on LinkedIn for more of this content. And watch this episode on Youtube here:

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The Accounting Influencers Podcast, hosted by Rob Brown, is one of the world's leading shows for accounting leaders, professionals, finance specialists, software vendors, tech providers and influencers.

Thanks to our sponsors:

ADVANCETRACK OUTSOURCING. Transform your accounting firm with AdvanceTrack. Our top-tier offshoring solutions free your team from mundane tasks, allowing you to focus on growth and client engagement. Experience seamless scalability and expert support. Visit advancetrack.com and elevate your practice today. https://www.advancetrack.com

ACCOUNTEX. Bringing the accounting world together with UK and international events for the accounting and tech world. https://www.accountex.co.uk

If you'd like to sponsor the show and elevate your brand with our audience, reach out to show host Rob Brown on LinkedIn and his team will reach out to fix up a chat to explore.

https://www.linkedin.com/in/therobbrown

You can also check out all shows on the Accounting Influencers YouTube Channel:

https://bit.ly/AI-youtube

In this episode of the Accounting Influencers podcast, Rob Brown discusses the recent layoffs in the accounting profession, particularly among the big four firms and software providers. He explores the reasons behind these layoffs, the evolving skill requirements for accountants, and the new opportunities that arise from these changes. The conversation emphasizes the importance of continuous learning, adaptability, and thought leadership in navigating the current landscape. Additionally, Rob addresses the implications for the talent pipeline and offers insights for leaders on how to manage their teams during this period of disruption.

Key Takeaways

• Layoffs in accounting are reshaping the profession.
• AI and automation are driving job changes in accounting.
• Accountants must develop technology and data analysis skills.
• The demand for advisory services is increasing.
• Continuous learning is essential for career longevity.
• Thought leadership is crucial for career advancement.
• Layoffs create mentorship gaps in firms.
• New career paths are emerging for laid-off accountants.
• The talent pipeline may be affected by perceptions of instability.
• Leaders must navigate change with empathy and transparency.

Watch this on Youtube: https://youtu.be/2BaxT8xZQqY

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The Accounting Influencers Podcast, hosted by Rob Brown, is one of the world's leading shows for accounting leaders, professionals, finance specialists, software vendors, tech providers and influencers.

Thanks to our sponsors:

ADVANCETRACK OUTSOURCING. Transform your accounting firm with AdvanceTrack. Our top-tier offshoring solutions free your team from mundane tasks, allowing you to focus on growth and client engagement. Experience seamless scalability and expert support. Visit advancetrack.com and elevate your practice today. https://www.advancetrack.com

ACCOUNTEX. Bringing the accounting world together with UK and international events for the accounting and tech world. https://www.accountex.co.uk

If you'd like to sponsor the show and elevate your brand with our audience, reach out to show host Rob Brown on LinkedIn and his team will reach out to fix up a chat to explore.

https://www.linkedin.com/in/therobbrown

You can also check out all shows on the Accounting Influencers YouTube Channel:

https://bit.ly/AI-youtube

In this episode of the Accounting Influencers Podcast, Rob Brown emphasizes the critical role of personal branding for accounting professionals. He discusses how a strong personal brand can differentiate individuals in a competitive field, enhance visibility, and open doors to new opportunities. The conversation covers the importance of creating content, engaging with audiences, and maintaining authenticity and consistency in branding efforts. Ultimately, Rob encourages accountants to leverage their influence to drive positive change within the industry.

Key Takeaways

• If you're relying solely on technical skills, you're falling behind.
• Building a standout personal brand can catapult you ahead.
• Influence is becoming as important as expertise in accounting.
• Your personal brand communicates your unique value and perspective.
• Trust is at an all-time low; influence is a precursor for trust.
• A strong personal brand accelerates career advancement.
• Consistency in content creation is key to maintaining influence.
• Engaging in conversations enriches your perspective and influence.
• Authenticity strengthens your influence and attracts people.
• Personal branding is about driving positive change and storytelling.

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The Accounting Influencers Podcast, hosted by Rob Brown, is one of the world's leading shows for accounting leaders, professionals, finance specialists, software vendors, tech providers and influencers.

Thanks to our sponsors:

ADVANCETRACK OUTSOURCING. Transform your accounting firm with AdvanceTrack. Our top-tier offshoring solutions free your team from mundane tasks, allowing you to focus on growth and client engagement. Experience seamless scalability and expert support. Visit advancetrack.com and elevate your practice today. https://www.advancetrack.com

ACCOUNTEX. Bringing the accounting world together with UK and international events for the accounting and tech world. https://www.accountex.co.uk

If you'd like to sponsor the show and elevate your brand with our audience, reach out to show host Rob Brown on LinkedIn and his team will reach out to fix up a chat to explore.

https://www.linkedin.com/in/therobbrown

You can also check out all shows on the Accounting Influencers YouTube Channel:

https://bit.ly/AI-youtube

In this episode of the Accounting Influencers podcast, Rob Brown discusses the significant shifts occurring in the accounting profession, particularly the decline of the traditional partnership model. He emphasizes the need for firms to adapt to a corporate business model led by a CEO, driven by the growing influence of private equity. The conversation highlights the importance of technology, strategic leadership, and innovative hiring practices in shaping the future of accounting firms. Rob provides actionable strategies for aspiring leaders to enhance their influence and authority within their firms, advocating for modernization and collaboration.

Key Takeaways

• The partnership model is increasingly seen as outdated and ineffective.
• Firms must adapt to a corporate model to remain competitive.
• Private equity is playing a significant role in transforming accounting firms.
• Technology and automation are essential for future growth and efficiency.
• Leaders should focus on long-term firm success over individual gain.
• Understanding the impact of private equity is crucial for strategic positioning.
• Specializing in niche industries can enhance a leader's value.
• Collaboration across departments is vital for firm growth.
• Innovative hiring practices can shape the future of accounting firms.
• Leaders must anticipate industry shifts to drive change.

Watch on Youtube here: https://youtu.be/aQ6YzA87wMc

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The Accounting Influencers Podcast, hosted by Rob Brown, is one of the world's leading shows for accounting leaders, professionals, finance specialists, software vendors, tech providers and influencers.

Thanks to our sponsors:

ADVANCETRACK OUTSOURCING. Transform your accounting firm with AdvanceTrack. Our top-tier offshoring solutions free your team from mundane tasks, allowing you to focus on growth and client engagement. Experience seamless scalability and expert support. Visit advancetrack.com and elevate your practice today. https://www.advancetrack.com

ACCOUNTEX. Bringing the accounting world together with UK and international events for the accounting and tech world. https://www.accountex.co.uk

If you'd like to sponsor the show and elevate your brand with our audience, reach out to show host Rob Brown on LinkedIn and his team will reach out to fix up a chat to explore.

https://www.linkedin.com/in/therobbrown

You can also check out all shows on the Accounting Influencers YouTube Channel:

https://bit.ly/AI-youtube

In this episode of the Accounting Influencer podcast, Rob Brown discusses the transformative power of public writing for accounting professionals. He emphasizes that writing in public can set individuals apart in their careers, enhance their reputation, and establish them as thought leaders in the industry. Rob addresses common fears associated with writing and encourages accountants to share their insights and experiences. He highlights the long-term benefits of consistent writing, not only for personal branding but also for the reputation of their firms. The episode concludes with practical tips for getting started with public writing.

Key Takeaways

• Public writing can transform your career and reputation.
• Most accounting professionals fear writing in public.
• Writing publicly helps establish thought leadership.
• Everyday insights from your work are valuable to share.
• Consistency in writing leads to increased visibility.
• You can start writing even when no one is watching.
• Fear of judgment should not hold you back from writing.
• Building a personal brand benefits both you and your firm.
• Public writing can attract new clients and opportunities.
• Engaging in public writing sets a tone for leadership in your firm.

Check out the show here on youtube: https://youtu.be/84xauQnfUjc

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The Accounting Influencers Podcast, hosted by Rob Brown, is one of the world's leading shows for accounting leaders, professionals, finance specialists, software vendors, tech providers and influencers.

Thanks to our sponsors:

ADVANCETRACK OUTSOURCING. Transform your accounting firm with AdvanceTrack. Our top-tier offshoring solutions free your team from mundane tasks, allowing you to focus on growth and client engagement. Experience seamless scalability and expert support. Visit advancetrack.com and elevate your practice today. https://www.advancetrack.com

ACCOUNTEX. Bringing the accounting world together with UK and international events for the accounting and tech world. https://www.accountex.co.uk

If you'd like to sponsor the show and elevate your brand with our audience, reach out to show host Rob Brown on LinkedIn and his team will reach out to fix up a chat to explore.

https://www.linkedin.com/in/therobbrown

You can also check out all shows on the Accounting Influencers YouTube Channel:

https://bit.ly/AI-youtube

How well-equipped is the accounting profession to handle rapid technological advancements and a changing workforce? Are firms ready to embrace the future or stuck in outdated models?

Rob Brown hosts an expert panel featuring Todd Robinson, Angie Grissom, Itamar Jobani, and James Hickey to discuss the future of the accounting profession. The conversation explores critical challenges facing accountants today, such as adapting to technological changes, AI integration, talent retention, and shifting towards a more advisory-based role. The panel shares their unique insights on how firms must navigate cultural shifts, embrace leadership, and rethink their traditional business models to stay competitive.

The discussion also highlights the necessity of upskilling accountants and the role of technology in shaping the future. The panel dives deep into the transformative impact of AI, the benefits of a corporate rather than partnership model, and how firms can move from good to great by telling better stories and offering more personalized advisory services. They also emphasize the importance of attracting and retaining talent in a profession undergoing rapid change.

Key Takeaways:

✓ The accounting profession faces a critical people problem with talent shortages, driven by long work hours and declining interest from younger generations.

✓ Contrary to fears, AI will not replace accountants but will enhance their roles by automating mundane tasks and enabling them to focus on strategic advisory services.

✓ Strong leadership and innovative culture are key to moving accounting firms from good to great. Firms must empower young talent and create a strategic approach to problem-solving.

✓ Accountants need to stop fearing technology and start viewing it as an enabler that helps streamline operations and enhance client service.

✓ The outdated partnership model should evolve toward a corporate structure, enabling firms to be more agile and strategic.

Quotes:

"Your top clients are your competitors' top prospects. Are you showing up as their trusted advisor?" – Angie Grissom

"AI won't kill the accounting profession; it will free accountants to do the work that really matters." – Itamar Jobani

"Firms need to stop doing what they've always done and rethink what it means to add value in today's market." – James Hickey

"The biggest threat? Talent. The next generation doesn't see accounting as sexy, and we need to change that." – Todd Robinson

View this episode in video on YouTube here: https://youtu.be/JLCm3FGilXk

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The Accounting Influencers Podcast, hosted by Rob Brown, is one of the world's leading shows for accounting leaders, professionals, finance specialists, software vendors, tech providers and influencers.

Thanks to our sponsors:

ADVANCETRACK OUTSOURCING. Transform your accounting firm with AdvanceTrack. Our top-tier offshoring solutions free your team from mundane tasks, allowing you to focus on growth and client engagement. Experience seamless scalability and expert support. Visit advancetrack.com and elevate your practice today. https://www.advancetrack.com

ACCOUNTEX. Bringing the accounting world together with UK and international events for the accounting and tech world. https://www.accountex.co.uk

If you'd like to sponsor the show and elevate your brand with our audience, reach out to show host Rob Brown on LinkedIn and his team will reach out to fix up a chat to explore.

https://www.linkedin.com/in/therobbrown

You can also check out all shows on the Accounting Influencers YouTube Channel:

https://bit.ly/AI-youtube

Are accountants ready to tackle the future, or will technology leave them behind? What major shifts are disrupting the profession, and how can accountants stay relevant?

Rob Brown leads a lively discussion with an international panel of accounting professionals: Dr. Anton Lewis, Kelly Mann, Sabby Gill, and Eriona Bajrakurtaj. Together, they discuss the pressing challenges and emerging opportunities facing the accounting profession today. The conversation goes through how technology, particularly AI, is reshaping the landscape and what firms must do to stay competitive. The panelists also discuss the generational divide in tech adoption, the shortage of accounting talent, and the evolving role of accountants from traditional number-crunchers to strategic business advisors.

The debate highlights the need for accountants to embrace innovation, improve client communication, and network with peers for knowledge sharing. As the profession moves forward, the panelists emphasize the importance of staying agile, adapting to technological advancements, and rethinking the skill sets accountants need to thrive in a rapidly changing environment.

Key Takeaways:

✓  Firms that don’t adopt technology will fall behind and face extinction in the rapidly evolving accounting landscape.

✓ Younger generations are more adept with tech but lack real-world experience; older generations need to catch up to new tools.

✓ Accountants must see AI as a partner to enhance efficiency and service, rather than something that will replace them.

✓ Moving beyond compliance, accountants need to focus on strategic advice and deeper client relationships.

✓ Breaking down the silos within the profession can foster collaboration and innovation, helping accountants provide better services.

Quotes:

“In adversity, there is advantage—accounting’s crisis is your opportunity.” – Anton Lewis

“Accountants need to stop being generalists and start specializing.” – Kelly Mann

“Technology is here to complement, not replace us—let’s use it to provide better services.” – Eriona Bajrakurtaj

“If you don’t adopt technology now, you’ll become the laggard of the industry.” – Sabby Gill

“The profession’s future lies in moving from compliance to deep, proactive client engagement.” – Rob Brown

View this episode in video on YouTube here: https://youtu.be/I9hLkQMp2G4

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The Accounting Influencers Podcast, hosted by Rob Brown, is one of the world's leading shows for accounting leaders, professionals, finance specialists, software vendors, tech providers and influencers.

Thanks to our sponsors:

ADVANCETRACK OUTSOURCING. Transform your accounting firm with AdvanceTrack. Our top-tier offshoring solutions free your team from mundane tasks, allowing you to focus on growth and client engagement. Experience seamless scalability and expert support. Visit advancetrack.com and elevate your practice today. https://www.advancetrack.com

ACCOUNTEX. Bringing the accounting world together with UK and international events for the accounting and tech world. https://www.accountex.co.uk

If you'd like to sponsor the show and elevate your brand with our audience, reach out to show host Rob Brown on LinkedIn and his team will reach out to fix up a chat to explore.

https://www.linkedin.com/in/therobbrown

You can also check out all shows on the Accounting Influencers YouTube Channel:

https://bit.ly/AI-youtube

Is private equity killing or saving public accounting? What does the future hold for the accounting profession in the age of PE and AI?

Rob Brown sits down with Tim Brackney, CEO of a private equity-backed accounting and advisory platform, to discuss the impact of private equity on the accounting profession. With a background in professional services and a current role at the intersection of PE and accounting, Brackney offers a unique perspective on the challenges and opportunities facing the industry.

The conversation delves into the current state of the accounting profession, highlighting the critical talent shortage and the evolving expectations of the younger workforce. Brackney shares his thoughts on how private equity is reshaping the traditional partnership model, driving efficiencies, and potentially offering solutions to long-standing issues in the industry. The discussion also touches on the interplay between private equity and artificial intelligence, and how these forces might shape the future of accounting.

Key Takeaways:

✓ Private equity is not killing public accounting, but rather offering potential solutions to existing problems

✓ The accounting profession is facing a critical talent shortage, with fewer people entering and staying in the field

✓ Private equity is creating both turbulence and opportunities in the accounting industry

✓ The traditional partnership model in accounting firms is being challenged by new structures and expectations

✓ The combination of private equity and AI could drive efficiencies and change the focus of accounting professionals 

Quotes:

"Private equity is not killing public accounting. Public accounting, I think, was killing public accounting."

"Talent's looking for a different way to operate. They want more flexibility. They want more ownership."

View this episode in video on YouTube here: https://youtu.be/_FML6KBXYt8

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The Accounting Influencers Podcast, hosted by Rob Brown, is one of the world's leading shows for accounting leaders, professionals, finance specialists, software vendors, tech providers and influencers.

Thanks to our sponsors:

ADVANCETRACK OUTSOURCING. Transform your accounting firm with AdvanceTrack. Our top-tier offshoring solutions free your team from mundane tasks, allowing you to focus on growth and client engagement. Experience seamless scalability and expert support. Visit advancetrack.com and elevate your practice today. https://www.advancetrack.com

ACCOUNTEX. Bringing the accounting world together with UK and international events for the accounting and tech world. https://www.accountex.co.uk

If you'd like to sponsor the show and elevate your brand with our audience, reach out to show host Rob Brown on LinkedIn and his team will reach out to fix up a chat to explore.

https://www.linkedin.com/in/therobbrown

You can also check out all shows on the Accounting Influencers YouTube Channel:

https://bit.ly/AI-youtube

Is the accounting profession ready for its biggest transformation yet? With AI, private equity, and a talent shortage, how can firms stay competitive?

Rob Brown is joined by top accounting leaders—Anthony Pugliese, Mark Edmondson, Philip Whitman, and Randy Crabtree—to discuss the shifts happening within the accounting profession. From technological advancements like AI to the increasing focus on ESG reporting, the panel explores the challenges and opportunities that lie ahead for accounting firms.

The discussion covers critical issues such as the talent shortage, the evolution of accounting into advisory roles, and the pressure on firms to embrace digital transformation. Despite the challenges, the panelists are optimistic about the future, highlighting how firms can adapt by upskilling, embracing technology, and changing traditional mindsets around compliance and billing models.

Key Takeaways:

✓ The profession is moving rapidly toward automation and AI, but accountants need to adopt these technologies to stay relevant.

✓ Private equity is increasingly involved in the accounting industry, driving efficiency and digital transformation across firms.

✓ With 75% of accountants nearing retirement, firms face a significant talent shortage. The profession needs to become more attractive to younger generations.

✓ The traditional hourly billing model is outdated. Firms must focus on value-based pricing to stay competitive and align with modern business practices.

✓ To attract top talent, firms must prioritize culture, mental health, and work-life balance, especially in an era where burnout is prevalent.

Quotes:

"We have to stop selling time and start selling value. It’s about outcomes, not hours." – Randy Crabtree

"Private equity sees accounting firms as the next big thing. The potential for efficiency and profit is immense." – Philip Whitman

"The future of accounting isn’t just about compliance—it’s about being partners in innovation and technology." – Anthony Pugliese

"Accountants need to shift their mindset from risk-averse to proactive if they want to survive and thrive." – Mark Edmondson

View this episode in video on YouTube here: https://youtu.be/p-yr1Htaqmc

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The Accounting Influencers Podcast, hosted by Rob Brown, is one of the world's leading shows for accounting leaders, professionals, finance specialists, software vendors, tech providers and influencers.

Thanks to our sponsors:

ADVANCETRACK OUTSOURCING. Transform your accounting firm with AdvanceTrack. Our top-tier offshoring solutions free your team from mundane tasks, allowing you to focus on growth and client engagement. Experience seamless scalability and expert support. Visit advancetrack.com and elevate your practice today. https://www.advancetrack.com

ACCOUNTEX. Bringing the accounting world together with UK and international events for the accounting and tech world. https://www.accountex.co.uk

If you'd like to sponsor the show and elevate your brand with our audience, reach out to show host Rob Brown on LinkedIn and his team will reach out to fix up a chat to explore.

https://www.linkedin.com/in/therobbrown

You can also check out all shows on the Accounting Influencers YouTube Channel:

https://bit.ly/AI-youtube