The Ambitious Bookkeeper Podcast

In this powerful episode of The Ambitious Bookkeeper Podcast, Serena Shoup chats with Cletus Coffey, former pro athlete, single dad, and founder of Torch Training. Cletus shares his remarkable journey from professional sports to entrepreneurial failures to finding his authentic purpose through personal transformation.

In this episode you’ll hear:

• Cletus's journey from pro athlete to struggling entrepreneur to finding true alignment
• Practical frameworks for balancing ambition, family, and personal growth
• How to break free from achievement addiction and redefine success beyond the "scoreboard"
• The importance of mastering your mornings and creating structure that prioritizes self-care

Resources mentioned in this episode:

• Cletus Coffey's website: CletusCoffey.com
• Be The Torch Podcast
• Morning Mastery Challenge - includes downloadable cheat sheet and video tutorial
• BBD Live with James Wedmore (event where Serena and Cletus met)

Meet Cletus Coffey

Cletus Coffey is a former professional and world champion athlete turned founder of Be The Torch Academy. After losing his first business and navigating the challenges of divorce and being a single dad, Cletus struggled silently through a long period of pain and darkness. Through an unwavering devotion to self-mastery, he unlocked a path to greater personal power, purpose and passion, which included helping men—specifically single fathers and entrepreneurs—master their lives and businesses. Combining self-mastery with business and personal development, Cletus helps single dads who own a business, master their true authentic self so that they can finally become a man capable of experiencing happiness, fulfillment and freedom in their business and life.

Connect with Cletus Coffey

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

https://www.linkedin.com/company/torchtraining/

@cletuscoffey

Thanks for listening. If this episode inspired you in some way, take a screenshot of you listening on your device and post it to your Instagram stories and tag me @ambitiousbookkeeper

For more information about the Ambitious Bookkeeper Podcast or interest in our programs or mentoring visit our resources below:

• Visit our website: https://www.ambitiousbookkeeper.com
• Follow the Blog: https://www.ambitiousbookkeeper.com/blog
• Connect on Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/ambitiousbookkeeper
• Connect on Threads: https://www.threads.net/@ambitiousbookkeeper
• Connect on Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/serenashoupcpa

Thank you for your support of our show. If you haven’t left a review yet it’s super simple. Please go to ambitiousbookkeeper.com/podcast and leave your review.

Podcast Publishing Tools we use:

• Editing → Sabr Media LLC: https://www.iangilliam.com/sabr-media-llc
• Descript: https://get.descript.com/u7lubkx09073 (affiliate link)
• Buzzsprout: https://www.buzzsprout.com/?referrer_id=1753696 (affiliate link)

In this mini-episode, Serena shares her research on the Fair Tax Act and what it could mean for bookkeepers. She explains how this potential legislation would eliminate income tax and the IRS, replacing them with a national sales tax. Serena offers practical advice for bookkeepers to prepare for this potential shift and future-proof their businesses.

In this episode you’ll hear:

• A breakdown of what the Fair Tax Act actually means (goodbye income tax, hello 23-30% national sales tax!)
• How bookkeeping services would evolve rather than disappear in this new tax landscape
• Three actionable steps to prepare your bookkeeping business for this potential change
• Why this shift could actually be an opportunity for ambitious bookkeepers to expand their services

Resources mentioned in this episode:

• Sales Tax Workshop: ambitiousbookkeeper.com/salestax
• Elevate Program: ambitiousbookkeeper.com/elevate
• The Accounting Podcast (formerly Cloud Accounting Podcast)
• Avalara
• Tax Jar
• QBO
• Xero

Thanks for listening. If this episode inspired you in some way, take a screenshot of you listening on your device and post it to your Instagram stories and tag me @ambitiousbookkeeper

For more information about the Ambitious Bookkeeper Podcast or interest in our programs or mentoring visit our resources below:

• Visit our website: https://www.ambitiousbookkeeper.com
• Follow the Blog: https://www.ambitiousbookkeeper.com/blog
• Connect on Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/ambitiousbookkeeper
• Connect on Threads: https://www.threads.net/@ambitiousbookkeeper
• Connect on Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/serenashoupcpa

Thank you for your support of our show. If you haven’t left a review yet it’s super simple. Please go to ambitiousbookkeeper.com/podcast and leave your review.

Podcast Publishing Tools we use:

• Editing → Sabr Media LLC: https://www.iangilliam.com/sabr-media-llc
• Descript: https://get.descript.com/u7lubkx09073 (affiliate link)
• Buzzsprout: https://www.buzzsprout.com/?referrer_id=1753696 (affiliate link)

Running a bookkeeping or accounting firm means juggling multiple clients, deadlines, and deliverables - often leading to that feeling of "I'm drowning in work!" As someone who's built a successful practice while working 20 hours or less per week, I've discovered that how you organize and manage your workflow makes all the difference between constant overwhelm and smooth operations.

Whether you're flying solo or leading a small team, these three actionable strategies will help you streamline your processes, reduce stress, and scale your firm without the burnout.

In this episode you’ll hear:

• Three actionable strategies to centralize your workflows and processes in one place
• How to implement a standardized file naming system that saves you hours of searching
• Tips for designing your week with focus blocks to avoid context switching and burnout
• Real examples of how I apply these strategies in my own bookkeeping business

Resources mentioned in this episode:

• Clickup
• Asana
• Google Sheets
• Google Drive
• The Bookkeeping Business Accelerator: https://www.ambitiousbookkeeper.com/bba

Thanks for listening. If this episode inspired you in some way, take a screenshot of you listening on your device and post it to your Instagram stories and tag me @ambitiousbookkeeper

For more information about the Ambitious Bookkeeper Podcast or interest in our programs or mentoring visit our resources below:

• Visit our website: https://www.ambitiousbookkeeper.com
• Follow the Blog: https://www.ambitiousbookkeeper.com/blog
• Connect on Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/ambitiousbookkeeper
• Connect on Threads: https://www.threads.net/@ambitiousbookkeeper
• Connect on Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/serenashoupcpa

Thank you for your support of our show. If you haven’t left a review yet it’s super simple. Please go to ambitiousbookkeeper.com/podcast and leave your review.

Podcast Publishing Tools we use:

• Editing → Sabr Media LLC: https://www.iangilliam.com/sabr-media-llc
• Descript: https://get.descript.com/u7lubkx09073 (affiliate link)
• Buzzsprout: https://www.buzzsprout.com/?referrer_id=1753696 (affiliate link)

Serena dives deep into marketing strategies for bookkeepers and small business owners who are skeptical or overwhelmed by social media, sharing practical tips for building connections and growing your business.

What You’ll Learn:

• Marketing isn't just about social media: Discover a multi-pronged approach including offline networking, online presence, and website strategy
• Build your "circle of influence" by connecting with complementary professionals like insurance agents, bankers, and consultants
• How to start small and prioritize your marketing efforts without getting overwhelmed
• The power of delivering exceptional service as your best marketing tool

Resources mentioned:

• Upwork
• LinkedIn
• Kajabi
• Squarespace
• Tia's "Squarespace for Bookkeepers" Program: https://www.riledupgoats.com/ssfb

For experienced bookkeepers & accountants:

• Learn how to start your bookkeeping business in The Bookkeeping Business Accelerator®: https://www.ambitiousbookkeeper.com/bba
• Grab my FREE Start your Bookkeeping Biz Checklist: https://www.ambitiousbookkeeper.com/checklist
• Grab my FREE New Client Onboarding Templates: https://www.ambitiousbookkeeper.com/onboard

For new bookkeepers:

• Learn the fundamental accounting skills in Katie Ferro's Become a Bookkeeper: https://www.katieferro.com/a/38894/2PQNgtvv

For online course creators:

• Become a client at my firm, Of Course Financial: https://www.ofcoursebookkeeping.com/contact

Connect with us:

• Visit our website: https://www.ambitiousbookkeeper.com
• Follow the Blog: https://www.ambitiousbookkeeper.com/blog
• Connect on Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/ambitiousbookkeeper
• Connect on Threads: https://www.threads.net/@ambitiousbookkeeper
• Connect on Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/serenashoupcpa

Podcast Publishing Tools we use:

• Editing → Sabr Media LLC: https://www.iangilliam.com/sabr-media-llc
• Descript: https://get.descript.com/u7lubkx09073 (affiliate link)
• Buzzsprout: https://www.buzzsprout.com/?referrer_id=1753696 (affiliate link)

In this episode I’m tackling a listener ‘struggle’: Imposter Syndrome.

This is also a MINI episode, which means you can view the video on YouTube! While you’re there, make sure to subscribe!

Resources mentioned in this episode:

• The Bookkeeping Biz Workshops
• My FREE Training

Thanks for listening. If this episode inspired you in some way, take a screenshot of you listening on your device and post it to your Instagram stories and tag me @ambitiousbookkeeper

For more information about the Ambitious Bookkeeper Podcast or interest in our programs or mentoring visit our resources below:

• Visit our website: https://www.ambitiousbookkeeper.com
• Follow the Blog: https://www.ambitiousbookkeeper.com/blog
• Connect on Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/ambitiousbookkeeper
• Connect on Threads: https://www.threads.net/@ambitiousbookkeeper
• Connect on Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/serenashoupcpa

Thank you for your support of our show. If you haven’t left a review yet it’s super simple. Please go to ambitiousbookkeeper.com/podcast and leave your review.

Podcast Publishing Tools we use:

• Editing → Sabr Media LLC: https://www.iangilliam.com/sabr-media-llc
• Descript: https://get.descript.com/u7lubkx09073 (affiliate link)
• Buzzsprout: https://www.buzzsprout.com/?referrer_id=1753696 (affiliate link)

In today's bite-sized episode, we're diving into the nitty-gritty of setting up TaxJar for eCommerce businesses. Whether you're a bookkeeper with some eCommerce clients or an online seller yourself, stick around. Serena's got some super helpful insights coming your way, complete with screen sharing over on YouTube if you're up for it.

Resources mentioned:

• TaxJar
• Avalara
• Shopify
• Square
• Learn more about sales tax in the sales tax workshop: http://ambitiousbookkeeper.com/salestax

For experienced bookkeepers & accountants:

• Learn how to start your bookkeeping business in The Bookkeeping Business Accelerator®: https://www.ambitiousbookkeeper.com/bba
• Grab my FREE Start your Bookkeeping Biz Checklist: https://www.ambitiousbookkeeper.com/checklist
• Grab my FREE New Client Onboarding Templates: https://www.ambitiousbookkeeper.com/onboard

For new bookkeepers:

• Learn the fundamental accounting skills in Katie Ferro's Become a Bookkeeper: https://www.katieferro.com/a/38894/2PQNgtvv

For online course creators:

• Become a client at my firm, Of Course Financial: https://www.ofcoursebookkeeping.com/contact

Connect with us:

• Visit our website: https://www.ambitiousbookkeeper.com
• Follow the Blog: https://www.ambitiousbookkeeper.com/blog
• Connect on Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/ambitiousbookkeeper
• Connect on Threads: https://www.threads.net/@ambitiousbookkeeper
• Connect on Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/serenashoupcpa

Podcast Publishing Tools we use:

• Editing → Sabr Media LLC: https://www.iangilliam.com/sabr-media-llc
• Descript: https://get.descript.com/u7lubkx09073 (affiliate link)
• Buzzsprout: https://www.buzzsprout.com/?referrer_id=1753696 (affiliate link)

In this episode, we're diving into a wonderful conversation between Serena Shoup and Megan Tobler. Megan shares her inspiring journey from corporate sales to building a vibrant business community for moms in entrepreneurship.

In this episode you’ll hear:

• The reality of juggling motherhood and building a business from the ground up.
• How Megan leveraged her natural talents from sales to start her own podcast, create a community, and ultimately leave the corporate world behind.
• Megan's new community initiative, Together, which focuses on supporting women like us in their entrepreneurial and life journeys.
• A sweet little bonus from Megan

Resources mentioned in this episode:

Sign up for the FREE community: www.selfstarther.com/together

FREE Positivity Playlist: https://selfstarther.mykajabi.com/positivity-playlist-info-landing-page

Meet Megan Tobler

Megan Tobler is the founder of Self StartHER, a vibrant community and podcast designed for women who are building businesses while balancing life at home. As someone who transformed her own journey into a thriving space for connection and growth, Megan has firsthand experience navigating the challenges of entrepreneurship and life. She’s passionate about empowering women to pursue their ambitions unapologetically, sharing relatable advice, actionable strategies, and real-life stories. Through Self StartHER, Megan has cultivated a space where women can find the tools, inspiration, and confidence to thrive in both business and life.

Connect with Megan Tobler

📎 Instagram: @selfstart.her

🌐 Website: www.selfstarther.com

Thanks for listening. If this episode inspired you in some way, take a screenshot of you listening on your device and post it to your Instagram stories and tag me @ambitiousbookkeeper

For more information about the Ambitious Bookkeeper Podcast or interest in our programs or mentoring visit our resources below:

• Visit our website: https://www.ambitiousbookkeeper.com
• Follow the Blog: https://www.ambitiousbookkeeper.com/blog
• Connect on Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/ambitiousbookkeeper
• Connect on Threads: https://www.threads.net/@ambitiousbookkeeper
• Connect on Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/serenashoupcpa

Thank you for your support of our show. If you haven’t left a review yet it’s super simple. Please go to ambitiousbookkeeper.com/podcast and leave your review.

Podcast Publishing Tools we use:

• Editing → Sabr Media LLC: https://www.iangilliam.com/sabr-media-llc
• Descript: https://get.descript.com/u7lubkx09073 (affiliate link)
• Buzzsprout: https://www.buzzsprout.com/?referrer_id=1753696 (affiliate link)

Our MINI episodes are also YouTube videos - and may be better viewed on YouTube. Click here to watch! https://youtu.be/7zH54q8eR6I

In this episode you’ll hear me answer a listener submitted question about the opportunities available in accounting & bookkeeping and how to find the right one for you!

Resources mentioned in this episode:

• The Ultimate Guide to a Profitable Bookkeeping Business: https://ambitiousbookkeeper.com/training
• Leave your questions for me HERE: https://speakpipe.com/ambitiousbookkeeper

Thanks for listening. If this episode inspired you in some way, take a screenshot of you listening on your device and post it to your Instagram stories and tag me @ambitiousbookkeeper

For more information about the Ambitious Bookkeeper Podcast or interest in our programs or mentoring visit our resources below:

• Visit our website: https://www.ambitiousbookkeeper.com
• Follow the Blog: https://www.ambitiousbookkeeper.com/blog
• Connect on Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/ambitiousbookkeeper
• Connect on Threads: https://www.threads.net/@ambitiousbookkeeper
• Connect on Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/serenashoupcpa

Thank you for your support of our show. If you haven’t left a review yet it’s super simple. Please go to ambitiousbookkeeper.com/podcast and leave your review.

Podcast Publishing Tools we use:

• Editing → Sabr Media LLC: https://www.iangilliam.com/sabr-media-llc
• Descript: https://get.descript.com/u7lubkx09073 (affiliate link)
• Buzzsprout: https://www.buzzsprout.com/?referrer_id=1753696 (affiliate link)

In this episode, Alyssa Lang, my biz bestie & The Workflow Queen dives into what it truly means to be a great leader, focusing on how to move beyond everyday tasks and really lead your firm.

She breaks down five key pillars of leadership that will help you build a scalable, profitable, and well-aligned business. Alyssa shares her personal journey, explaining how shifting your mindset, setting the right offers, creating smooth systems, building a strong company culture, and removing yourself from daily operations can transform your firm.

Tune in for heartfelt stories and actionable advice!

In this episode you’ll hear:

• 5 key pillars of leadership
• resources for becoming a better leader
• personal journey

Resources mentioned in this episode:

• Removable CEO Workshop *affiliate link

Connect with Alyssa:

• 🌐 Website: workflowqueen.com
• 📱 IG: @workflowqueen
• 🎙️ Podcast: Conquering Workflows & Systems with the Workflow Queen

Thanks for listening. If this episode inspired you in some way, take a screenshot of you listening on your device and post it to your Instagram stories and tag me @ambitiousbookkeeper

For more information about the Ambitious Bookkeeper Podcast or interest in our programs or mentoring visit our resources below:

• Visit our website: https://www.ambitiousbookkeeper.com
• Follow the Blog: https://www.ambitiousbookkeeper.com/blog
• Connect on Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/ambitiousbookkeeper
• Connect on Threads: https://www.threads.net/@ambitiousbookkeeper
• Connect on Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/serenashoupcpa

Thank you for your support of our show. If you haven’t left a review yet it’s super simple. Please go to ambitiousbookkeeper.com/podcast and leave your review.

Podcast Publishing Tools we use:

• Editing → Sabr Media LLC: https://www.iangilliam.com/sabr-media-llc
• Descript: https://get.descript.com/u7lubkx09073 (affiliate link)
• Buzzsprout: https://www.buzzsprout.com/?referrer_id=1753696 (affiliate link)

Hey there, welcome back to The Ambitious Bookkeeper Podcast! Today, I'm chatting with Brian Greer from TaxConnex about all things sales tax. Whether you're a sales tax newbie or just looking for a way to outsource, we've got you covered. So grab your favorite drink, get comfy, and let's dive into making sales tax a bit less daunting.

In this episode you’ll hear:

• Meet Brian Greer
• Discover what "nexus" really means in sales tax
• Learn about the Wayfair decision
• Learn about TaxConnex
• If you've ever thought, "Ugh, sales tax is confusing," you're not alone! Brian breaks it down and makes it way less intimidating.

Resources mentioned in this episode:

• TaxConnex
• Shopify
• Avalara
• TaxJar
• Earmark

Meet GUEST

A graduate of Purdue University, the majority of Brian’s career has been in the sales tax industry. First, joining Tax Partners in 2001 initially managing their alliance channel consisting mainly of Big 4 Accounting Firms. He later led the sales and use tax sales team after the The Thomson Corporation (now known as Thomson Reuters) acquisition in 2005, growing the revenues to multi-million dollar levels. Brian joined TaxConnex™ as a partner in 2010 and currently as the Chief Strategy Officer is focused on partner development, rolling out new products and services, and supporting the sales and marketing teams.

Connect with GUEST

💼 LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/brian-greer-55b7364/

🗞️ Blog: https://www.taxconnex.com/Blog-

Thanks for listening. If this episode inspired you in some way, take a screenshot of you listening on your device and post it to your Instagram stories and tag me @ambitiousbookkeeper

For more information about the Ambitious Bookkeeper Podcast or interest in our programs or mentoring visit our resources below:

• Visit our website: https://www.ambitiousbookkeeper.com
• Follow the Blog: https://www.ambitiousbookkeeper.com/blog
• Connect on Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/ambitiousbookkeeper
• Connect on Threads: https://www.threads.net/@ambitiousbookkeeper
• Connect on Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/serenashoupcpa

Thank you for your support of our show. If you haven’t left a review yet it’s super simple. Please go to ambitiousbookkeeper.com/podcast and leave your review.

Podcast Publishing Tools we use:

• Editing → Sabr Media LLC: https://www.iangilliam.com/sabr-media-llc
• Descript: https://get.descript.com/u7lubkx09073 (affiliate link)
• Buzzsprout: https://www.buzzsprout.com/?referrer_id=1753696 (affiliate link)