Digital CPA by CPA.com

In this episode of the *Digital CPA Podcast*, host Kalil Merhib, EVP of Growth & Professional Services at CPA.com, is joined by two industry leaders to dive into the transformative role of AI in auditing and the CPA profession. Our guests are Kevin Merlini, co-founder and CEO of Materia AI, and Jen Burns, Chief Auditor at the AICPA.

We’ll explore how AI is reshaping the landscape of audit and financial reporting. Kevin shares his insights on using AI to unlock internal knowledge, reduce complexity, and drive efficiency in firms, while Jen provides an AICPA perspective on maintaining high-quality standards and ensuring public trust in financial reporting.

From practical AI use cases to responsible data management, and strategies for smooth adoption of AI in firms, this episode covers the most pressing questions on the intersection of AI and the CPA profession. Tune in to hear how firms can balance AI-generated insights with professional judgment, the guidance AICPA is providing for AI implementation, and what the future holds for AI in accounting.

Don’t miss this thought-provoking discussion on the future of AI and auditing!

Kevin Merlini LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/kmerlini/

For additional resources check out:

https://accelerator.cpa.com/

https://www.cpa.com/insights

For more information about the Digital CPA conference, visit digitalcpa.com. To explore CPA.com's initiatives, visit www.CPA.com.

Thank you for joining us and stay tuned for more episodes on your favorite podcast platform.

Welcome to the *Digital CPA Podcast*, where we explore how technology is transforming the accounting profession. We're joined today with Dan Hood, Editor-in-Chief of *Accounting Today*, as we dive into insights from the recent AICPA and CPA.com Executive Roundtable in New York City. 

This year’s roundtable focused on emerging trends impacting the profession, with topics ranging from responsible AI and its ethical implications to the growing influence of private equity in accounting firms. Dan and I discuss how AI is reshaping both traditional tasks and strategic advisory roles, the potential risks and opportunities presented by private equity, and the continued growth of advisory services fueled by new technologies like predictive analytics.

Tune in for Dan’s key takeaways from the event and a look at what’s on the horizon for 2025. Don’t miss this insightful episode, and be sure to check out *Accounting Today*'s latest article on private equity for more in-depth coverage. Share your thoughts on social media with #DigitalCPA and #DCPA24.

For additional resources check out:

Harnessing transformation: Key takeaways from the 2024 AICPA/CPA.com Executive Roundtable

https://accelerator.cpa.com/

https://www.cpa.com/insights

For more information about the Digital CPA conference, visit digitalcpa.com. To explore CPA.com's initiatives, visit www.CPA.com.

Thank you for joining us and stay tuned for more episodes on your favorite podcast platform.

In this episode of the Digital CPA Podcast, hosts Kacee Johnson and Kalil Merhib sit down with Lisa Griffith, Head of Partnerships + Strategy for Accounting at Laurel, an AI Time Automation company. Together, they explore the evolving concept of time tracking in public accounting and how it's shifting from traditional billing methods to more productivity-focused, value-based approaches. Lisa shares her insights on the challenges firms face as they pivot away from billing by the hour, the role of AI in transforming time management, and the exciting trends in accounting technology for the second half of 2024. Tune in to learn how firms can unlock new levels of performance and profitability by rethinking the value of time.

Don't miss this conversation with one of the trailblazers in accounting technology!

For additional resources check out:

https://accelerator.cpa.com/

https://www.cpa.com/insights

For more information about the Digital CPA conference, visit digitalcpa.com. To explore CPA.com's initiatives, visit www.CPA.com.

Thank you for joining us and stay tuned for more episodes on your favorite podcast platform.

In this episode of the Digital CPA podcast, Kacee Johnson and Kalil Merhib sit down with Chad Osgood, co-founder of Digilence, to explore the cutting-edge world of digital transformation. As a leading expert in digital evolution for CPA firms, Chad will guide us through the essentials of successfully navigating a digital overhaul. We’ll uncover what it truly means to be a “digital firm,” identify common gaps in current technology ecosystems, and reveal how immediate digital upgrades can drive substantial benefits for your practice.

Chad brings a wealth of experience, offering practical insights into the challenges of adapting to new technologies and the concept of “applification”—the explosion of tech apps and its impact on firm strategies. We’ll discuss actionable steps for transforming your firm, the differences between digital transformation and mere tech adoption, and strategies to overcome common hurdles.

Whether you’re a tech-savvy pro or just beginning to explore digital strategies, this episode will equip you with valuable knowledge to elevate your firm’s technology and streamline your operations. Don’t miss out on this essential conversation for a tech-forward future!

For additional resources check out:

https://accelerator.cpa.com/

http://www.digilence.com

https://www.cpa.com/insights

For more information about the Digital CPA conference, visit digitalcpa.com. To explore CPA.com's initiatives, visit www.CPA.com.

Thank you for joining us and stay tuned for more episodes on your favorite podcast platform.

Welcome to the Digital CPA podcast, in this episode we are joined by Jen Wilson, co-founder of Convergence Coaching and a long-standing member of the DCPA community. Jen brings her extensive experience in leadership strategies and talent development to discuss key challenges in today's work environment, focusing on managing generational gaps and the hybrid aspect of work.

Jen provides insights into the characteristics of different generational cohorts in the workplace, strategies for bridging technological proficiency gaps, and managing varying career expectations. The conversation also covers trends in hybrid, in-office, and remote work, and effective leadership strategies for fostering inclusive communication and leveraging team strengths.

Tune in for Jen's vision on the future of leadership in a multi-generational workplace and how CPA firms can prepare for future generational shifts. Don't miss out on learning about the upcoming Digital CPA conference and Jen's pre-conference workshop.

Additional Resources:

RTO: https://convergencecoaching.com/dont-repel-your-people-with-rto-master-remote-and-blended-instead/

RTO feelings AND coffee badging: https://www.cnbc.com/2024/07/16/quiet-quitting-and-coffee-badging-why-employees-dont-want-to-work.html

Anytime, Anywhere Work Survey (closes 7/25/24 for input): https://bit.ly/ATAWW2024

Jen Wilson: https://www.linkedin.com/in/jenniferwilsonprofile/ 

For more information about the Digital CPA conference, visit digitalcpa.com. To explore CPA.com's initiatives, visit www.CPA.com. Thank you for joining us, and stay tuned for more episodes on your favorite podcast platform.

Welcome to the Digital CPA Podcast, join Kacee, Kalil, and Elinor as they share their perspectives on the role of technology in reshaping accounting practices and discuss strategies for upskilling and staying relevant in today's tech-driven world. Whether you're a seasoned CPA or a tech enthusiast, this episode offers valuable insights and practical tips for embracing technology and driving innovation in the world of accounting. 

In this episode, Elinor Litwack, a Partner at GRF CPAs,  dives into the fascinating realm of technology upskilling. A seasoned professional in tech and innovation strategy within the firm, brings a wealth of experience to the discussion. As a former Advisory Board member of Digital CPA, Elinor sheds light on the current state of technology skills among CPAs, identifying common gaps and highlighting the importance of staying ahead in the tech game.

Exploring the nuances between basic and advanced tech skills, offering real-world examples of how technology is revolutionizing the accounting industry. From leveraging advanced technology applications to navigating the challenges of constantly evolving tech landscapes in accounting practices.

Tune in and discover how technology is transforming the way we work and the opportunities it presents for growth and success. 

For more episodes and resources, visit www.CPA.com. Stay tuned for our upcoming episodes featuring industry leaders driving innovation and transformation in finance and technology.

Don't forget to subscribe to our podcast on your favorite listening platform!

https://www.cpa.com/insights

Welcome to the Digital CPA Podcast! In our latest episodes, we’ve delved into advisory services, and today, we’re shifting our focus to the technological trends shaping the future of CPA firms.

In this episode, we explore how the convergence of technology, data, and system integrations is transforming business needs and expectations. Business leaders are increasingly seeking:

• Frequent access to data
• Enhanced connectivity between systems for increased automation and reduced delays
• Comprehensive business insights by merging financial and operational data

Despite the potential of technical adavancement to enable business leaders, many organizations lack the time, resources, or expertise to fully leverage today’s technologies. This is where trusted advisors play a crucial role.

Our guest, Jim French, CFO of IFI Professionals, has been at the forefront of helping businesses and advisors develop strategies to capitalize on the intersection of technology and advisory services. With a background in accounting from a Big 4 firm and over 20 years in software development and delivery, Jim’s unique perspective as a former CEO, CFO, and COO enables him to provide valuable insights into these emerging trends.

Join us as we sit down with Jim French to discuss how advisors can bridge the gap in the market and bring unparalleled value to their clients through innovative technology strategies.

For more episodes and resources, visit www.CPA.com. Stay tuned for our upcoming episodes featuring industry leaders driving innovation and transformation in finance and technology.

Don't forget to subscribe to our podcast on your favorite listening platform!

Advisory coaching 

The Future of Client Advisory Services 

https://www.cpa.com/insights

Join us on the Digital CPA Podcast as host Kalil Merhib, EVP of Growth & Professional Services at CPA.com sits down with Dave Hartley, a leading Advisory expert from the Top 100 firm Anders CPAs + Advisors. In this engaging episode, Kalil and Dave dive deep into the dynamic world of advisory services and discuss key strategies and innovations shaping this rapidly growing practice area for CPA firms.

Key topics covered in this episode include:

• The accelerating growth of firm advisory services and its impact on the accounting profession
• Effective change management strategies for building and scaling an advisory practice
• Attracting top talent to the profession through innovative advisory services
• The introduction and integration of new service lines into traditional firm structures
• The crucial role of advisory services in shaping the future of the accounting profession

Tune in to gain valuable insights and expert perspectives from Kalil and Dave as they explore the evolving landscape of advisory services. This episode promises to provide listeners with actionable advice and forward-thinking strategies to enhance their practice.

Don't miss out on this opportunity to learn from industry leaders and stay ahead in the ever-changing world of advisory services.

For more episodes and resources, visit www.CPA.com. Stay tuned for our upcoming episodes featuring industry leaders driving innovation and transformation in finance and technology.

Don't forget to subscribe to our podcast on your favorite listening platform!

In this episode, Gene Marks, a CPA, columnist, author, small business owner, and keynote speaker joins Kacee Johnson and Kalil Merhib to explore the ever-evolving economic landscape with its impact on CPAs and their clients.

Gene brings a wealth of experience, having navigated a unique career path that offers valuable insights for aspiring candidates. We'll uncover his journey and the lessons he's learned along the way.

We'll also delve into the key economic shifts affecting CPAs today, equipping them with the knowledge to better advise their clients in this fast-changing environment. From leveraging data analytics to strategic advice for staying competitive, Gene will share actionable strategies for success.

Join us as we discuss the revolutionary technologies shaping the accounting profession, and the skills that will be essential for CPAs in the coming decade. Plus, we'll peer into the future, exploring where the accounting profession is headed amidst rapid technological advancements.

For more episodes and resources, visit www.CPA.com. Stay tuned for our upcoming episodes featuring industry leaders driving innovation and transformation in finance and technology.

Don't forget to subscribe to our podcast on your favorite listening plateform! 

Welcome to the Digital CPA Podcast, hosted by Kacee Johnson, Vice President of Strategy & Innovation at CPA.com, and Kalil Merhib, EVP Growth & Professional Services. In this episode, we dive deep into the world of accounting technology with our special guest, Aaron Harris, Chief Technology Officer of Sage.

Aaron shares insights from the recent Sage Transform conference, discussing the latest AI enhancements and releases that will shape the future of accounting tech. We explore how AI has transformed the landscape, emerging trends, and practical steps for professionals to prepare for AI-driven changes.

Join us as we delve into specific AI use cases and success stories, along with ethical considerations and recommended tools for crafting effective AI strategies. Looking ahead, Aaron predicts disruptive trends in the next 18 months that will impact the industry.

Thank you to Aaron and our listeners for joining us on this insightful journey. Tune in to the Digital CPA Podcast for more discussions on leveraging tech and transforming practices in accounting, finance, and technology.

Top insights from CPA.com’s year-long research initiative into GenAI’s transformative impacts on the profession, including findings from the AICPA / CPA.com AI Symposium, firm use cases, interviews with AI experts, and more. Click Here for the Special Report

For additional information and resources on AI technology and transformation, download our Gen AI tool kit today! 

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