CPAs and Beignets

Chris Shankle, CPA, doesn’t exactly stick to the shallow end. He’s a master scuba diver, professional photographer, talented musician—and apparently, quite the storyteller. In this episode, we take a deep dive into Chris’ life above and below the water, from playing keyboard in a successful garage band to pulling off an impressive 9th-row takeover at a Foreigner concert. And then there’s the story of how his attempt to impress his future wife with a concert invitation… didn’t quite go as planned.

What were you doing at 12, 14 or 15? Jimmy Chilimigras was graduating high school, taking the LSAT and earning both a bachelor’s and master’s degree in accounting. By 15, he had become the world’s youngest CPA—and at 18, one of Louisiana’s youngest law school graduates. In this fascinating episode of CPAs and Beignets, discover how Jimmy became a worldwide phenom, what drives his extraordinary accomplishments, and the test-taking strategies that helped him succeed on some of the most challenging exams. Whether you’re preparing for the CPA Exam, another professional certification, or simply looking for ways to perform at your best, Jimmy’s advice is worth listening to.

Every black belt knows mastery doesn't happen overnight. Becky Hammond has spent decades perfecting her craft—both as a governmental auditor and as an eight-time Taekwondo world champion. In this episode, we bow in to hear how discipline, precision and perseverance have helped Becky excel in every arena. Add in a passion for darts and a playlist that spans Etta James to Def Leppard, and you've got one unforgettable CPA whose interests are as dynamic as her career.

Sports fanatic. World traveler. Speed reader. Auditor. Advocate for the next generation of CPAs.

Our next CPAs & Beignets Podcast guest, Christy Dunn, brings energy, insight, and plenty of great stories to the conversation. From devouring mystery novels that sharpen her investigative skills as an auditor to serving on nonprofit boards and recently being appointed to the State Board of Accountancy, Christy is passionate about giving back and being a voice for up-and-coming CPAs.

You won’t want to miss this fun and inspiring episode! 🎙️☕

From balance sheets to barn stalls, Will Fleenor proves there’s life after ledgers. In this episode of CPAs and Beignets, the former CPA and longtime educator trades spreadsheets for milk pails, sharing how he churned a second career as a dairy farmer and artisan cheesemaker. It’s a story of reinvention, risk, and a whole lot of hard work. Tune in for a conversation that’s equal parts insightful and udderly entertaining.

Think all CPAs follow the same straight path? Think again.

Trish Thibodeau’s path into the profession is anything but traditional. With a background in psychology, she found her way into accounting and built a career that proves the CPA world is more flexible, diverse, and personality-filled than people think.

We talk about bringing joy into both work and life, making time to recharge, and why you don’t have to fit a stereotype to thrive in this field. From professional success to performing and even hula hooping with a Mardi Gras group, Trish shows that you can follow your passions and still build a meaningful career.

If you’ve ever wondered whether you “fit” in accounting, this conversation might change your mind.

Meet the man behind the TUBA and discover a different side of his story. Before being a member of the LSU band, Kent carved out an impressive career as a CPA. In this episode, he shares his journey, the lessons he’s learned along the way, and how following your passions can lead to unexpected—and extraordinary—places. A story full of inspiration, stories, laughs, and insights you won’t want to miss!

 Join us for a deep conversation with Julie Stokes, where finance, leadership, and inspiration collide! In this episode, Julie shares her journey through the worlds of accounting, politics, and community service, offering insights on resilience, career growth, and making an impact. Whether you’re a CPA, a professional looking to level up, or just love hearing stories that motivate, this episode is packed with wisdom, and laughs. Grab your coffee and a beignet and tune in!

In our 3rd episode of CPAs & Beignets, we sit down with Anthony Rutledge, LCPA’s 2025–2026 Chair. Hear his story, his theme for the year ahead, and how being a CPA has shaped his life and career. Don’t miss this chance to get to know the leader guiding us into the future!

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CPAs & Beignets: A Candid Conversation with Chair Bridget Kaigler

She’s smart, she’s fun, and she’s leading the way, meet our 2024-25 LCPA Board Chair, Bridget Kaigler! In this episode of CPAs & Beignets, we share a lively conversation covering her journey in the accounting profession, her leadership insights, and the passions that keep her inspired. Bridget shares stories that will inspire, connect, and maybe even make you smile. Grab a coffee (and a beignet, of course) and join us for a warm, engaging chat that’s as much about people as it is about the profession.
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