Future-Proof

In today’s data-driven world, information is everywhere, but what truly sets professionals apart is their ability to tell the story behind the numbers. In this episode of Future-Proof, we sit down with Jake DeKinder, Head of Client Communication at Dimensional Fund Advisors, to explore why storytelling may be the most essential skill CPAs can master.

Jake explains how data alone doesn’t inspire action; stories do. He shares his framework for effective communication, the Four S’s of Storytelling (scripts, stories, sketches, and supplements), and shows how authentic, human connection builds trust and meaning in client relationships.

Jake will also present at the MACPA’s 40th Annual Personal Financial Planning Conference on October 28, where he’ll dive deeper into how financial professionals can transform data into stories that stick.

It’s not just about communicating numbers; it’s about helping people see the meaning in their money.

Resources:

• 40th Annual Personal Financial Planning Conference
• Jack DeKinder LinkedIn Profile
• Dimensional Fund Advisors Website

Estate planning isn’t just for the wealthy, it’s for anyone who wants to protect the people and causes that matter most. In this episode of Future-Proof, we sit down with Patrick Carlson, Associate General Counsel for Estate and Tax Product at Vanilla, to explore how simple planning steps can bring peace of mind to everyday clients.

Patrick, who’s presenting at the MACPA’s 40th Annual Personal Financial Planning Conference, shares practical ways to make estate planning accessible, meaningful, and essential for financial professionals. It’s not about doom and gloom — it’s about love, legacy, and making sure your wishes are honored.

Resources:

• MACPA 40th Annual Personal Financial Planning Conference Registration
• Patrick Carlson LinkedIn Profile

Busy season horror stories of 80-hour weeks, sleepless nights, and lost weekends have long defined the accounting profession. But Samantha Bowling, managing partner at GWCPA, is rewriting that narrative.

This past tax season, her firm went bold: no weekends, a 50-hour cap, mandatory extensions, upfront pricing, and a 15% fee increase. The payoff? Nearly full client retention, lighter partner workloads, and a team that felt energized instead of exhausted.

In this episode, Samantha shares how GWCPA pulled it off, what challenges came with change, and why people-first innovations like these may be the key to attracting talent and future-proofing the profession.

If you have ever thought, “There has to be a better way,” you will want to hear this conversation.

Resources

• Samantha Bowling, CPA, CFE, CGMA LinkedIn Profile
• GWCPA Firm Website
• MACPA Preferred Providers

Tom Hood, Executive Vice President of Business Growth and Engagement at the AICPA, shares his perspective on the forces shaping the future of accounting and finance through Accounting and Finance 2040: Rise to the Future Together.

In this conversation, Tom discusses the rapid evolution of the finance function, driven by generative AI, digital transformation, shifting business models, and changing workforce expectations. He examines the skills professionals will need to thrive, highlighting adaptability, curiosity, and strategic thinking alongside technical expertise.

Tom also offers practical advice for finance leaders and professionals on how to prepare themselves and their teams for what is coming next.

Resources:

• Tom Hood, CPA, CGMA, CITP, EVP Business Engagement & Growth, AICPA LinkedIn
• McKinsey Reports on CFO Priorities
• Deloitte CFO Signals Report
• Gartner Finance Insights

In today’s polarized climate, terms like DEI and diversity can spark debate, but the need for fairness at work remains just as important. In this episode, Siri Chilazi, co-author of Work Fair: Data-Driven Design for Real Results, joins the conversation to explore what actually drives equity in the workplace.

Instead of buzzwords or big proclamations, Siri focuses on small, practical changes that make a real impact. She shares how reducing bias in hiring, running more inclusive meetings, and building systems where talent has a true chance to shine can lead to meaningful progress. She calls this moment a reset, a chance to step back and ask what’s really working.

If you're looking for ways to create a fairer workplace grounded in evidence and action, this episode offers steps to get started.

Resources:

• Siri Chilazim Author, Academic, Speaker and Consultant, website
• "Make Work Fair: Data-Driven Design for Real Results", by Siri Chilazi, Iris Bohnet

Risk is evolving quickly, and CPAs need to stay ahead. In this episode of Future Proof, we talk with Nicole Graham, risk consultant at Aon, about how firms can turn risk management into a strategic advantage.

From cyber threats and regulatory changes to the everyday use of generative AI, Nicole shares real-world trends and practical tips to help firms stay protected. Learn how to spot red flags early, strengthen engagement practices, and embed a proactive risk culture across your team.

Smart risk management isn’t optional, it’s essential to building a future-ready firm.

Resources:

• Ashley Graham, Risk Consultant, LinkedIn
• Aon Insurance Services, an MACPA Preferred Provider

This week on Future Proof, Paul Dunn, award-winning entrepreneur, global business leader, and founder of B1G1 (Business for Good), joins the conversation to explore the true purpose of the accounting profession.

Paul challenges CPAs to shift from focusing on what they do to why they do it. He shares how small, purpose-driven actions can create lasting impact and how accountants can become storytellers who communicate the real value of their work. His message is clear: CPAs are heroes (they just don’t always realize it).

This uplifting episode is a powerful reminder of how purpose and impact can redefine the profession and inspire change far beyond the bottom line.

Resources:

• B1G1 (Business for Good)
• Paul Dunn’s TEDx Talks
• The Soul of the Enterprise Podcast
• Verasage Institute
• MACPA Purpose Resources

This week on Future Proof, we’re joined by Lexy Kessler, partner at Aprio, former chair of the Maryland Association of CPAs, and now the third Marylander to chair the AICPA’s board of directors. Lexy brings insight, inspiration, and a powerful sense of purpose to this conversation.

She shares how a high school bookkeeping class sparked her career, why she was an early adopter of technology, and how a short break from public accounting reaffirmed her calling. Now in a national leadership role, Lexy is focused on deep listening, building trust across the profession, and addressing the talent pipeline with both policy and heart.

This episode is a must-listen for anyone seeking renewed purpose and direction in the profession.

Resources

• Lexy Kessler LinkedIn Profile
• Lexy Kessler AICPA Profile
• National Pipeline Advisory Group

In this episode, Ron Baker, founder of the VeraSage Institute, challenges traditional views of innovation in accounting. Instead of focusing on technology like AI and automation, Ron advocates for transforming the value we provide to clients, shifting from transactional services to outcomes and personal growth. He highlights Fender's shift from selling guitars to teaching customers how to become musicians as a key example of transformation.

Ron also reframes burnout as "moral injury," the emotional toll of not living up to the deeper purpose of the profession, which is helping people. This conversation is full of actionable ideas to help CPAs evolve beyond billable hours and checklists. Tune in for a fresh perspective on the future of accounting and how to make a greater impact.

Resources:

• VeraSage Institute
• Ron Baker biography and work
• Ron Baker's podcast, The Soul of the Enterprise
• "The Experience Economy" book by Joe Pine and James Gilmore
• PwC 2023 Consumer Insights Report
• Deloitte’s Human Outcomes Study

Firms are facing major capacity and talent challenges—and many are turning to offshoring, or global resourcing, to keep up. But how do you make it work?

In this episode of Futureproof, GRF CPAs and Advisors partner Tricia Katebini shares how her firm built a global team that’s fully integrated into their culture and client service model.

Whether you’re just getting started or refining your approach, this episode is packed with practical insights to help you navigate the future of talent.

Resources:

• Tricia Katebini, CPA, MBA, Partner, Audit and Assurance at GRF CPAs and Advisors
• India GCC Landscape Report – The 5 Year Journey