In this episode of the Business Growth Hacks podcast, we welcome back Dave Hartley, a CPA with Anders CPAs and Advisors, to explore the evolving landscape of AI and automation. They dive into the impact of tech developments in accounting, the shift from traditional tax services to a more proactive advisory role, and the future of business growth through integrated financial and marketing strategies. Dave also shares insights on the potential of automating tax payments and the challenges of modernizing the IRS.

 Key Points:

- [0:00] Introduction to Dave Hartley  

  John reintroduces Dave Hartley, a CPA with Anders CPAs and Advisors, highlighting his expertise in advisory services and innovation.

- [2:00] The Evolution of the CPA Profession  

  Dave discusses how the CPA profession has transitioned from traditional tax and audit services to a focus on proactive advisory roles, driven by technology and automation.

- [4:00] Integration of AI and Automation  

  The conversation shifts to how AI and automation are transforming accounting, with a focus on the potential for automating tax payments and the challenges involved.

- [6:30] The Complexity of Tax Systems  

  Dave shares a personal story about the IRS and the difficulties in modernizing tax systems, explaining why fully automated tax filing might be far off.

- [7:50] The Importance of Expert Advice  

  The episode concludes with a discussion on why business owners need experts like Dave in their corner to navigate complex financial landscapes.

Quotable Moments:

[0:47] "The world is ridiculously complex. If you're a small business owner, it is amazing how many things you're supposed to try to keep track of and be an expert on." - Dave Hartley

[5:06] "If they just know the answer, why do we go through this whole process of putting together our own tax return?" - Dave Hartley

[6:51] "Should this process be this hard? And what are those dollars really going to where they should be going?" - Dave Hartley

Links Mentioned:

• Anders CPAs and Advisors: https://www.anderscpa.com
• But Who's Counting Podcast: https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/but-whos-counting/id1611046443
• Beefy Marketing: https://beefymarketing.com/
• Wingman: https://trustyourwingman.com/

To stay ahead in today's rapidly evolving business environment, it's crucial to leverage technology and expert advice. Don't forget to subscribe to the Business Growth Hacks podcast for more tips on scaling your business.