Find out your next step in bookkeeping.

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In this episode of The Bookkeepers' Podcast we sit down with Nicola Hageman, a management accountant turned business owner, who shares her journey and insights about turning payroll into a profitable service. We delve into the importance of payroll management for businesses, discussing the necessity for compliance and providing reassurance to clients.

Nicola opens up about her experience building her own payroll software, discussing the challenges she faced, the potential for growth, and how she plans to make payroll processing more efficient and profitable. We also explore the benefits of cloud-based payroll software, the importance of pricing correctly, and finding efficiencies in the process.

During our conversation, we highlight the significance of streamlining payroll processing through software development, involving both employers and employees in the process. Nicola emphasises the power of entrepreneurship, the role of software development, and the value of having supportive networks on this journey.

Finally, we discuss Nicola's ambitious plans for Fresh Pay, aiming to make it the leading payroll software not just in the UK, but globally. Join us in this insightful episode as we learn from Nicola's unique perspective on making payroll profitable.

About Nicola

Nicola Hageman is a Chartered Management Accountant who started her own practice in 2014 to allow her to be flexible around her young family. She now has a team who supports over 600 small businesses and individuals as well as being a co-founder in FreshPay, fully cloud based payroll software supporting bureaus and payroll professionals to be as efficient and profitable as possible when running payroll.

About us

We help bookkeepers find clients, make more money and build businesses they love that work for them. We're raising the profile of the bookkeeping profession and bookkeepers worldwide.

Whether you're a bookkeeper or accountant wanting to grow your own business to have the flexibility for your life, and your family, come and join us.

Join our FREE Facebook community, The 6 Figure Bookkeepers' Club, to experience this revolution for yourself. Connect with us at 6figurebookkeeper.club

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Quiz

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Courses

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About our Sponsor

This episode of The Bookkeepers' Podcast is sponsored by Xero. Find out more at:

https://www.xero.com/uk/campaign/new-partner-programme/?utm_source=6FB&utm_medium=podcastnotes&utm_campaign=Q2

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The information contained in The Bookkeepers' Podcast is provided for information purposes only. The contents of The Bookkeepers' Podcast is not intended to amount to advice and you should not rely on any of the contents of the Bookkeepers' Podcast. Professional advice should be obtained before taking or refraining from taking any action as a result of the contents of the Bookkeepers' Podcast. The 6 Figure Bookkeeper Ltd disclaims all liability and responsibility arising from any reliance placed on any of the contents of the Bookkeepers' Podcast.

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In this episode of The Bookkeepers' Podcast, Jo Wood and Zoe Whitman are joined by Jo Birtwistle, Editorial Director at AccountingWEB. Jo shares insights into her work with AccountingWEB, a leading online platform for the accounting and bookkeeping profession, and her role in shaping the Festival of Accounting and Bookkeeping (FAB). The conversation covers the growing recognition of bookkeepers within the broader accounting industry and the evolution of community and collaboration across the profession.

Jo discusses how the FAB event offers high-quality content, dedicated networking opportunities, and actionable insights to help bookkeepers and accountants grow their businesses. She also highlights how AccountingWEB supports the profession with free resources, forums, and news tailored to both bookkeepers and accountants.

What Listeners Will Learn:

AccountingWEB for Bookkeepers: Resources and forums available for bookkeepers seeking industry insights.

The Evolution of FAB: How the Festival of Accounting and Bookkeeping provides a unique space for growth and community.

The Changing Landscape of Bookkeeping: Increased recognition, professionalisation, and collaboration within the industry.

Insights from FAB 2024: Key themes, including technology, client relationships, and business growth.

Opportunities for Bookkeepers: How to stand out and build confidence in a competitive profession.

Timestamps:

0:00 – Introduction

0:31 – Meet Jo Birtwistle and AccountingWEB

1:28 – The Role of Bookkeepers in the Accounting Space

3:38 – Growing Recognition of Bookkeeping as a Profession

6:25 – What to Expect at FAB 2024

9:55 – Themes for 2024: Technology, Business Growth, and Client Relationships

12:41 – Supporting Bookkeepers as Business Owners

14:31 – Collaboration Across the Profession

17:32 – The Future of the Profession: Bookkeeping and Accounting

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HOW TO WORK WITH US

We help bookkeepers earn more from bookkeeping. Work with us for £199 per month in The Bookkeepers’ Collective. 👉 6FIGUREBOOKKEEPER.COM

Join The Bookkeepers' Collective for full programmes and live support, including:

Practice Foundations (CPD Accredited)

Business Growth (CPD Accredited)

Marketing, Sales, and Pricing Training

14+ Hours of Live Support Each Month

👉 6FIGUREBOOKKEEPER.COM

Join the FREE MEMBERSHIP to access:

Free Community

A Free Copy of The Bookkeeper Rises

Exclusive Discounts and Recommendations

👉 6FIGUREBOOKKEEPER.CLUB

About Our Sponsor

This episode of The Bookkeepers' Podcast is sponsored by Xero.

👉 Start your free trial today: xero.com

Disclaimer

The information contained in The Bookkeepers' Podcast is provided for informational purposes only and does not constitute advice. Professional advice should be obtained before acting on any content discussed. The 6 Figure Bookkeeper Ltd disclaims all responsibility for reliance on this information.

In this episode of The Bookkeepers' Podcast, Jo Wood and Zoe Whitman are joined by Caroline Hobden, Portfolio Director for Accountex. Caroline discusses the global impact of AccountEx events, the evolution of bookkeeping communities, and how these gatherings facilitate learning and collaboration for finance professionals around the world. From London to Canada and Spain, Accountex has been at the forefront of showcasing innovation and fostering connections within the industry.

Caroline shares insights about the importance of adapting to regional differences, the role of professional bodies, and how Accountex is shaping the future of the bookkeeping profession.

What Listeners Will Learn:

The Global Scope of Accountex: Highlights from events in London, Spain, Canada, and beyond.

Regional Differences: How bookkeeping and accounting vary by country, including regulation, technology adoption, and community engagement.

Building Community: The value of collaboration and sharing expertise within the bookkeeping profession.

Technology and Innovation: Emerging trends like AI, e-invoicing, and cybersecurity in finance.

What to Expect at Accountex London 2024: Insights into the largest AccountEx event in the UK.

Timestamps:

0:00 – Introduction

0:31 – Meet Caroline Hobden

1:13 – The AccountEx Portfolio: Events Around the World

3:34 – The Rapid Growth of AccountEx Spain

4:28 – The Universal Need for Community in Bookkeeping

6:06 – Regional Challenges: Regulation, Technology, and Mindsets

8:02 – The Collaborative Nature of Bookkeeping

9:14 – Learning from Global Bookkeeping Practices

10:46 – AccountEx London: What’s Coming in May 2024

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HOW TO WORK WITH US

We help bookkeepers earn more from bookkeeping. Work with us for £199 per month in The Bookkeepers’ Collective. 👉 6FIGUREBOOKKEEPER.COM

Join The Bookkeepers' Collective for full programmes and live support, including:

Practice Foundations (CPD Accredited)

Business Growth (CPD Accredited)

Marketing, Sales, and Pricing Training

14+ Hours of Live Support Each Month

👉 6FIGUREBOOKKEEPER.COM

Join the FREE MEMBERSHIP to access:

Free Community

A Free Copy of The Bookkeeper Rises

Exclusive Discounts and Recommendations

👉 6FIGUREBOOKKEEPER.CLUB

About Our Sponsor

This episode of The Bookkeepers' Podcast is sponsored by Xero.

👉 Start your free trial today: xero.com

Disclaimer

The information contained in The Bookkeepers' Podcast is provided for informational purposes only and does not constitute advice. Professional advice should be obtained before acting on any content discussed. The 6 Figure Bookkeeper Ltd disclaims all responsibility for reliance on this information.

In this episode of The Bookkeepers' Podcast, Jo Wood and Zoe Whitman chat with Suzannah Whelan, founder of Sinclair Whelan Bookkeeping. Suzannah shares her 15-year journey of building a flexible and fulfilling practice in Billericay, Essex, supporting clients ranging from sole traders to limited companies and landlords.

Suzannah reflects on her evolution from a side hustle to a thriving solo practice, the challenges of transitioning clients to cloud-based systems, and the power of community and accountability. She offers valuable insights into pricing, confidence-building, and adapting to the future of bookkeeping.

What Listeners Will Learn:

Suzannah’s Journey: From a career in advertising to launching a bookkeeping practice as a working parent.

Transitioning to Cloud Systems: How Suzannah moved clients away from desktop software and hourly billing.

The Importance of Community: Building confidence and overcoming challenges with the support of accountability groups.

Fixed Pricing Strategies: Tips for shifting clients to fixed fees and managing scope creep.

Adapting to the Future: Embracing technology and sustainability as part of bookkeeping services.

Timestamps:

0:00 – Introduction

0:29 – Meet Suzannah Whelan

0:48 – An Overview of Suzannah’s Practice

2:03 – Starting a Practice as a Second Career

4:45 – The Power of Community in Bookkeeping

7:17 – Transitioning Clients to Cloud Software

9:46 – Fixed Pricing and Managing Scope Creep

11:52 – Building Confidence as a Business Owner

13:21 – The Future of Bookkeeping: Technology and Sustainability

14:20 – Closing Thoughts

----------------------------------------

HOW TO WORK WITH US

We help bookkeepers earn more from bookkeeping. Work with us for £199 per month in The Bookkeepers’ Collective. 👉 6FIGUREBOOKKEEPER.COM

Join The Bookkeepers' Collective for full programmes and live support, including:

Practice Foundations (CPD Accredited)

Business Growth (CPD Accredited)

Marketing, Sales, and Pricing Training

14+ Hours of Live Support Each Month

👉 6FIGUREBOOKKEEPER.COM

Join the FREE MEMBERSHIP to access:

Free Community

A Free Copy of The Bookkeeper Rises

Exclusive Discounts and Recommendations

👉 6FIGUREBOOKKEEPER.CLUB

About Our Sponsor

This episode of The Bookkeepers' Podcast is sponsored by Xero.

👉 Start your free trial today: xero.com

Disclaimer

The information contained in The Bookkeepers' Podcast is provided for informational purposes only and does not constitute advice. Professional advice should be obtained before acting on any content discussed. The 6 Figure Bookkeeper Ltd disclaims all responsibility for reliance on this information.

In this episode of The Bookkeepers' Podcast, Jo Wood and Zoe Whitman sit down with Leanda Daddow and Stacey Smith from Celtic Bookkeeping. Leanda and Stacey share their journey of transforming their practice and achieving a work-life balance that aligns with their personal dreams. From a struggling sole proprietorship to a thriving team-based operation, their story is a testament to the power of resilience, innovation, and collaboration.

Leander now travels full-time with her family while Stacey manages day-to-day operations at their Cornwall office. Together, they have redefined success, demonstrating how bookkeepers can design a business that supports their personal and professional goals.

What Listeners Will Learn:

Leander’s Journey: From sole trader to a business owner living her dream of full-time travel.

Overcoming Challenges: The importance of resilience during tough times and transforming a struggling business.

Building a Team: How to delegate effectively and find team members who complement your strengths.

Creating Work-Life Balance: Structuring a business that supports flexibility and freedom.

Client Goal Setting: Helping clients define and achieve their personal and business aspirations.

Pricing for Sustainability: Why correct pricing is key to growth and enabling business owners to step back.

Timestamps:

0:00 – Introduction

0:28 – Meet Leander and Stacey

0:47 – Leander’s Journey from Barclays to Bookkeeping

2:24 – Stacey’s Role in the Business

3:16 – Team and Client Overview

4:24 – Leander’s Full-Time Travel Lifestyle

6:07 – The Fire Truck Conversion: A New Adventure

7:14 – Delegating and Outsourcing Payroll

9:02 – The Future of Bookkeeping and Client Collaboration

9:55 – Helping Clients Define Their Dreams

11:07 – Supporting Client Success

11:50 – Advice on Delegation and Building a Team

12:38 – The Importance of Pricing for Growth

12:59 – Closing Thoughts

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HOW TO WORK WITH US

We help bookkeepers earn more from bookkeeping. Work with us for £199 per month in The Bookkeepers’ Collective. 👉 6FIGUREBOOKKEEPER.COM

Join The Bookkeepers' Collective for full programmes and live support, including:

Practice Foundations (CPD Accredited)

Business Growth (CPD Accredited)

Marketing, Sales, and Pricing Training

14+ Hours of Live Support Each Month

👉 6FIGUREBOOKKEEPER.COM

Join the FREE MEMBERSHIP to access:

Free Community

A Free Copy of The Bookkeeper Rises

Exclusive Discounts and Recommendations

👉 6FIGUREBOOKKEEPER.CLUB

About Our Sponsor

This episode of The Bookkeepers' Podcast is sponsored by Xero.

👉 Start your free trial today: xero.com

Disclaimer

The information contained in The Bookkeepers' Podcast is provided for informational purposes only and does not constitute advice. Professional advice should be obtained before acting on any content discussed. The 6 Figure Bookkeeper Ltd disclaims all responsibility for reliance on this information.

In this episode of The Bookkeepers' Podcast, Jo Wood and Zoe Whitman are joined by Stuart Miller, Director of Product Compliance and Industry Engagement at Xero. Stuart shares insights into his unique role, which bridges the gap between regulation, software development, and the needs of bookkeepers and small businesses. The discussion dives into the evolving regulatory landscape, the integration of AI into bookkeeping, and the importance of cybersecurity in the digital age.

Stuart emphasises how bookkeepers can future-proof their practices by embracing technology, staying informed about industry changes, and leveraging tools like e-invoicing and AI to enhance efficiency and client value. He also highlights the role of professional networks and education in navigating these advancements.

What Listeners Will Learn:

Stuart’s Journey: From tax accountant to Xero’s Director of Product Compliance and Industry Engagement.

E-Invoicing Explained: How it simplifies processes, reduces errors, and speeds up payments.

AI in Bookkeeping: Real-life applications and small steps to integrate AI effectively.

The Importance of Cybersecurity: Best practices for protecting client data in a digital world.

Future-Proofing Your Practice: Embracing change and preparing for the evolving role of bookkeepers.

Timestamps:

0:00 – Introduction

0:30 – Meet Stuart Miller

1:00 – Stuart’s Role at Xero and Industry Insights

3:16 – Regulatory Trends and E-Invoicing

5:03 – How Bookkeepers Can Stay Updated

7:28 – Key Focus Areas for Bookkeeping Practices

8:32 – AI Applications for Bookkeepers

10:05 – Using Xero to Simplify Workflows

12:17 – Mindset Shifts for the Future of Bookkeeping

14:20 – Practical Uses of AI in Bookkeeping Today

17:26 – Data Security and the Role of AI Tools like JAX

18:35 – Cybersecurity Trends for Bookkeepers

21:02 – Closing Thoughts

----------------------------------------

HOW TO WORK WITH US

We help bookkeepers earn more from bookkeeping. Work with us for £199 per month in The Bookkeepers’ Collective. 👉 6FIGUREBOOKKEEPER.COM

Join The Bookkeepers' Collective for full programmes and live support, including:

Practice Foundations (CPD Accredited)

Business Growth (CPD Accredited)

Marketing, Sales, and Pricing Training

14+ Hours of Live Support Each Month

👉 6FIGUREBOOKKEEPER.COM

Join the FREE MEMBERSHIP to access:

Free Community

A Free Copy of The Bookkeeper Rises

Exclusive Discounts and Recommendations

👉 6FIGUREBOOKKEEPER.CLUB

About Our Sponsor

This episode of The Bookkeepers' Podcast is sponsored by Xero.

👉 Start your free trial today: xero.com

Disclaimer

The information contained in The Bookkeepers' Podcast is provided for informational purposes only and does not constitute advice. Professional advice should be obtained before acting on any content discussed. The 6 Figure Bookkeeper Ltd disclaims all responsibility for reliance on this information.

In this special episode of The Bookkeepers' Podcast, Jo Wood and Zoe Whitman are joined by Kate Hayward, UK Country Manager for Xero. Kate shares her inspiring journey from growing up in a family-run business to her leadership role at Xero, where she focuses on empowering accountants, bookkeepers, and small businesses. The discussion covers how digital innovations like e-invoicing and AI are shaping the future of bookkeeping, and how bookkeepers can leverage these tools to stay ahead.

Kate also highlights how Xero supports bookkeepers by streamlining workflows, improving cash flow management, and offering resources to stay updated with industry changes. The conversation touches on the human side of bookkeeping, including the importance of maintaining client trust and focusing on high-value tasks.

What Listeners Will Learn:

Kate’s Journey: From a family background in bookkeeping to UK Country Manager for Xero.

E-Invoicing: How it automates workflows, reduces errors, and speeds up payments for small businesses.

The Role of AI: Practical applications of AI in bookkeeping and how Xero is integrating this technology.

Future-Proofing Your Practice: Adapting to change and embracing tools to focus on strategic client relationships.

Continuous Learning: Why staying updated with software developments is critical for bookkeepers.

Timestamps:

0:00 – Introduction

0:30 – Welcome to Kate Hayward

1:00 – Kate’s Background and Journey to Xero

3:45 – The Human Side of Bookkeeping: Stories from Kate’s Family

4:44 – E-Invoicing Explained: Benefits and Global Trends

6:20 – Embracing Automation in Bookkeeping

7:42 – How Xero Makes Bookkeeping Intuitive and Efficient

9:42 – Learning from Digital Innovations in Other Countries

10:56 – AI in Bookkeeping: Simplifying Repetitive Tasks

13:11 – Time-Saving Strategies for Bookkeepers

15:07 – Introducing JAX: Xero’s AI Tool

17:24 – Staying Updated with Xero’s Developments

18:51 – Opportunities for Bookkeepers in a Digital World

19:22 – Preparing for the Future of Bookkeeping

20:19 – Final Thoughts and Advice from Kate

----------------------------------------

HOW TO WORK WITH US

We help bookkeepers earn more from bookkeeping. Work with us for £199 per month in The Bookkeepers’ Collective. 👉 6FIGUREBOOKKEEPER.COM

Join The Bookkeepers' Collective for full programmes and live support, including:

Practice Foundations (CPD Accredited)

Business Growth (CPD Accredited)

Marketing, Sales, and Pricing Training

14+ Hours of Live Support Each Month

👉 6FIGUREBOOKKEEPER.COM

Join the FREE MEMBERSHIP to access:

Free Community

A Free Copy of The Bookkeeper Rises

Exclusive Discounts and Recommendations

👉 6FIGUREBOOKKEEPER.CLUB

About Our Sponsor

This episode of The Bookkeepers' Podcast is sponsored by Xero.

👉 Start your free trial today: xero.com

Disclaimer

The information contained in The Bookkeepers' Podcast is provided for informational purposes only and does not constitute advice. Professional advice should be obtained before acting on any content discussed. The 6 Figure Bookkeeper Ltd disclaims all responsibility for reliance on this information.

In this special episode of The Bookkeepers' Podcast, Jo Wood and Zoe Whitman are live at the Bookkeepers Summit, joined by Ami Copeland, CEO of the Institute of Certified Bookkeepers (ICB). Ami shares insights into the evolving world of bookkeeping, the opportunities brought about by technology, and how bookkeepers can shape their own future in this ever-changing landscape.

Ami highlights the importance of bookkeepers in supporting businesses, dispelling fears surrounding AI, and encouraging bookkeepers to embrace flexibility, growth, and purpose. She also reflects on juggling career and family life, as well as the key role events like the Bookkeepers Summit play in fostering a sense of community and inspiring bookkeepers.

You Will Learn:

* The evolving role of bookkeepers amidst advancements in AI and technology.

* Why technology, like AI, empowers rather than replaces bookkeepers.

* Practical tips for making the most of industry events like the Bookkeepers Summit.

* How bookkeepers can future-proof their careers by embracing adaptability and value-driven work.

* The importance of taking a step back to identify your purpose and direction as a bookkeeper.

----------------------------------------

HOW TO WORK WITH US

We help bookkeepers earn more from bookkeeping. Work with us for £199 per month in The Bookkeepers’ Collective. 👉 6FIGUREBOOKKEEPER.COM

Join The Bookkeepers' Collective for full programmes and live support, including:

Practice Foundations (CPD Accredited)

Business Growth (CPD Accredited)

Marketing, Sales, and Pricing Training

14+ Hours of Live Support Each Month

👉 6FIGUREBOOKKEEPER.COM

Join the FREE MEMBERSHIP to access:

Free Community

A Free Copy of The Bookkeeper Rises

Exclusive Discounts and Recommendations

👉 6FIGUREBOOKKEEPER.CLUB

About Our Sponsor

This episode of The Bookkeepers' Podcast is sponsored by Xero.

👉 Start your free trial today: xero.com

Disclaimer

The information contained in The Bookkeepers' Podcast is provided for informational purposes only and does not constitute advice. Professional advice should be obtained before acting on any content discussed. The 6 Figure Bookkeeper Ltd disclaims all responsibility for reliance on this information.

In this episode of The Bookkeepers' Podcast, Jo Wood and Zoe Whitman discuss the importance of taking a break from work and creating intentional boundaries during busy periods. As the festive season approaches, they share practical tips for balancing client expectations, family time, and personal wellbeing.

Jo and Zoe explore how being self-employed can blur the lines between work and leisure, making it easy to neglect downtime. They discuss ways to step away from work, such as setting clear boundaries, embracing creative activities, and managing the guilt that often accompanies taking a break.

Listeners will come away with advice to ensure they can recharge, stay present with loved ones, and plan for a better work-life balance in the future.

In this episode of The Bookkeepers' Podcast, Jo Wood and Zoe Whitman are joined by Natalie Allen, an accountant from their community, to discuss her journey of building a successful bookkeeping practice. Natalie shares how she transitioned from working in her family’s business to pursuing qualifications to the corporate world and eventually becoming self-employed. She dives into the challenges of balancing family responsibilities, navigating licensing hurdles, and growing her client base post-COVID.

Natalie also highlights the value of offering comprehensive services, the importance of building confidence as a business owner, and how collaborating with other professionals has helped her expand her practice. She shares actionable tips on client engagement, pricing strategies, and the potential for advisory services to add value for her clients.

What Listeners Will Learn:

- How Natalie transitioned from employment to self-employment in bookkeeping.

- Navigating licensing challenges as an AAT and ACCA-qualified professional.

- Effective strategies for client acquisition, including leveraging referrals and social media.

- The importance of confidence in pricing and saying no to the wrong clients.

- How to position bookkeeping services as a comprehensive and ongoing partnership.

- The role of education and advisory services in client relationships.