The Enrolled Agent Advocate

In today’s increasingly digital world, protecting client data is no longer optional for tax professionals—it’s critical to your practice’s integrity and trustworthiness. In this episode of The Enrolled Agent Advocate, host Brandy Spears speaks with Jatin Narang, an authority on cybersecurity and compliance challenges unique to the tax and accounting industry.

Jatin, with over 15 years of experience in enterprise security, leads Verito, a company specializing in providing security-first IT solutions for tax professionals. He shares valuable insights into why tax firms, especially Enrolled Agents, are prime targets for cybercriminals and what you can do to prevent security breaches.

From the FTC Safeguards Rule to IRS Publication 4557, Jatin breaks down the key compliance requirements, discusses common security oversights, and highlights how cybersecurity can be a competitive advantage in the tax industry. If you haven’t given cybersecurity the attention it deserves, now is the time.

Why Listen

• Learn why cybersecurity is one of the most overlooked risks for tax firms today

• Understand the FTC Safeguards Rule and IRS security requirements

• Get actionable advice on how to implement effective security protocols

• Discover how cybersecurity can become a competitive advantage for tax professionals

• Avoid common cybersecurity pitfalls that could cost you your client’s trust

In This Episode:

• [00:00:00] Welcome to The Enrolled Agent Advocate

• [00:01:10] Meet Jatin Narang: 15+ years in enterprise security for tax professionals

• [00:02:01] Why tax firms are prime targets for cybercriminals

• [00:03:34] The biggest security risks EAs are underestimating as tax season approaches

• [00:06:00] Phishing, ransomware, and how hackers operate in 2023

• [00:08:43] Security requirements: FTC Safeguards Rule and IRS Publication 4557 explained

• [00:12:10] Key security measures every firm must implement to be compliant

• [00:13:50] The 3-2-1 Backup Rule and why it matters for your practice

• [00:16:00] How to protect your data and safeguard client trust

• [00:18:50] The impact of AI-driven threats on tax professionals’ security

• [00:21:30] How to create a zero-tolerance security policy for your firm

• [00:24:00] How a written information security plan (WISP) can protect your business

• [00:27:40] Best practices for evaluating cloud and private hosting providers

• [00:30:10] Why security training for staff is non-negotiable

• [00:32:00] Wrapping up: Proactive vs. reactive security

Notable Quotes

• “The attackers don’t care about the size of your firm. They care about the data you have.” — Jatin Narang

• “A data breach costs on average $300,000—and that’s just the start.” — Jatin Narang

• “Customer trust evaporates the moment a breach happens. You can’t put a price on that.” — Jatin Narang

• “Security is an ongoing process. It’s not just a checkbox you mark at the end of the year.” — Jatin Narang

Our Guest

Jatin Narang has over 15 years of experience in enterprise security, specializing in security-first IT solutions tailored for tax and accounting firms. As the leader of Verito, Jatin has helped more than 1,000 professionals meet strict regulatory requirements like the FTC Safeguards Rule and IRS security guidelines. His expertise covers data protection protocols, risk assessments, encryption, and the creation of written information security plans (WISP) for tax firms.

Passionate about transforming cybersecurity into a competitive advantage, Jatin helps firms increase client trust and operational efficiency while maintaining compliance with ever-evolving mandates.

Resource and Links

The Enrolled Agent Advocate Podcast

• The Enrolled Agent Advocate

Brandy Spears

• LinkedIn

• Website - NAEA.org

Jatin Narang

• LinkedIn

• Website - Verito
  

In this episode, Brandy Spears is joined by Josh Youngblood, founder of The Youngblood Group, a firm that blends technology with tax expertise to serve individuals and small businesses. With over 30 years of IT experience, Josh has leveraged his unique skills to shape a tax practice that emphasizes representation, cybersecurity, and client trust. A National Tax Practice Institute Fellow, Certified Tax Resolution Specialist, and Certified Real Estate Tax Strategist, Josh shares his passion for continuous education and why he is so committed to providing authentic and proactive tax representation.

Josh opens up about his journey into the world of tax and tech, discussing his personal motivation to become an Enrolled Agent (EA) and his role in shaping tax policy and practice. He also highlights his experiences in working with same-sex couples on tax matters, how technology has evolved the industry, and why client education continues to be at the forefront of his approach to tax services.

Why Listen

• Discover how Josh's IT background enhanced his tax practice

• Learn why cybersecurity is critical for modern tax professionals

• Josh's journey from corporate IT to owning a tax firm

• The importance of client education in building trust and long-term relationships

• How same-sex couples face unique tax challenges—and how Josh addresses them

• The role of representation in diffusing IRS anxiety and supporting clients

• Insights on AI and tech tools and their role in enhancing client service without replacing the human touch

In This Episode:

• [00:01:00] Josh’s path to becoming an Enrolled Agent and how he combines IT and tax expertise

• [00:02:00] The importance of continuing education for EAs, with a focus on NTPI

• [00:05:00] The critical role of representation in diffusing IRS anxiety for clients

• [00:07:00] Josh’s approach to helping same-sex couples with unique tax considerations

• [00:10:00] Why technology is both a gift and a challenge for the tax industry

• [00:13:00] Josh’s take on AI and its role in tax work—trust but verify

• [00:16:00] Practical advice for tech adoption in tax firms without overwhelming clients

• [00:19:00] Cybersecurity tips every tax pro should implement today

• [00:22:00] Embracing authenticity in tax work—how it builds trust with clients

• [00:24:00] The challenges Josh faced in his career and the importance of mentorship

• [00:27:00] Josh’s work-life balance—how he decompresses during tax season

Notable Quotes

• “You can’t just rely on technology to do all the work for you. Tech is a tool to help, but it’s the human connection that makes the difference.” – Josh Youngblood

• “Same-sex couples still face tax issues that many preparers overlook—it’s about being aware of their unique needs and ensuring they’re not treated differently.” – Josh Youngblood

• “Authenticity in tax work is crucial. Clients want to know that they’re working with someone who understands them and is truly invested in their financial well-being.” – Josh Youngblood

Our Guest

Josh Youngblood, EA, is the founder of The Youngblood Group, a firm that blends his 30 years of IT expertise with tax services to provide solutions for individuals and small businesses. An Enrolled Agent, Certified Tax Resolution Specialist (CTRS), Certified Real Estate Tax Strategist (CRETS), and National Tax Practice Institute Fellow (NTPI), Josh specializes in tax representation and is deeply committed to client education. Through his newsletter, Josh & Taxes, and contributions to Think Outside the Tax Box, he shares his insights on the intersection of tax, tech, and cybersecurity. Josh is also an advocate for LGBTQ+ visibility in the profession, working to ensure that all taxpayers receive fair, respectful, and knowledgeable representation.

Resource and Links

The Enrolled Agent Advocate Podcast

• The Enrolled Agent Advocate

Brandy Spears

Mentioned

• NAEA Client Challenge - use discount code: EAONLY1

In this episode, host Brandy Spears is joined by Jay Shah, founder of Hell’s Kitchen Tax in New York City. Jay's career is a testament to how passion and dedication to both tax expertise and client education can fuel business growth. From his early days volunteering with VITA to becoming an Enrolled Agent (EA), earning a Master's in Tax Law from NYU, and ultimately acquiring two tax practices, Jay has mastered the art of building trust with clients and growing a successful firm.

Jay shares his journey, including the lessons he's learned from acquiring a practice, how he built lasting relationships with clients, and why specialization in industries like performing arts and entertainment has fueled his firm’s growth. He also dives into how the EA credential allowed him to expand his services and how education and advocacy continue to shape his practice today.

Why Listen

• Discover how Jay acquired and grew his tax practice by acquiring other firms

• Learn the importance of building client trust during the practice transition

• Explore how specializing in a niche can differentiate your practice

• Get Jay’s advice on starting or acquiring a tax firm

• Learn how to prioritize client education and increase retention

In This Episode

• [00:00:00] Jay’s early experiences with VITA and discovering tax

• [00:02:00] The moment Jay realized he needed the EA credential

• [00:04:00] Earning his Master’s in Tax Law and applying it to complex corporate deals

• [00:07:00] The decision to acquire a practice vs. starting from scratch

• [00:10:00] Lessons learned from the first practice acquisition

• [00:12:00] How Jay specializes in the performing arts and entertainment industries

• [00:15:00] Jay’s advice for EAs thinking about acquiring a practice

• [00:18:00] The importance of client education and maintaining relationships

• [00:22:00] How Jay handles IRS audits and advocates for his clients

• [00:25:00] Embracing technology and AI in tax practice

• [00:29:00] How to succeed as an EA by integrating tax and financial planning

• [00:32:00] Jay’s approach to client retention through year-round engagement

Notable Quotes

• “The best advice I can give is: Don’t wait—if you want to do it, do it. You’ve got to start somewhere.” – Jay Shah

• “Client trust doesn’t happen overnight, but by making personal connections, you can build lasting relationships.” – Jay Shah

• “Tax work is about communication—how you explain things and help clients understand their situation is key to building confidence.” – Jay Shah

• “Acquiring a practice gives you a head start, but you still have to work to gain clients’ trust and prove you’re the right choice.” – Jay Shah

• “Specialization can make all the difference. I went from doing everything to specializing in the performing arts and entertainment industries, and it’s made my practice thrive.” – Jay Shah

Our Guest

Jay Shah, EA is the founder of Hell’s Kitchen Tax in New York City, a firm specializing in tax preparation and advocacy for individuals, small businesses, and the performing arts and entertainment industries. Jay began his career in tax by volunteering for the VITA program and went on to earn his Master's in Tax Law from NYU.

An Enrolled Agent since 2014, Jay has acquired two practices and transitioned into specializing in niche markets. He is passionate about client education and building long-term relationships, always striving to make complex tax concepts understandable and actionable.

Resource and Links

The Enrolled Agent Advocate Podcast

• The Enrolled Agent Advocate

Brandy Spears

• LinkedIn

• Website - NAEA.org

Jay Shah, EA

• Website - Hell’s Kitchen Tax

• LinkedIn

Mentioned

• https://www.irs.gov/individuals/irs-vita-grant-program
  

In this episode, host Brandy Spears sits down with Edward J. Ryan, Jr., EA, a seasoned financial professional who’s spent his career bridging the gap between tax expertise and wealth management.

As the founder of Ryan Financial Group, Ed has built a thriving practice that serves more than 1,200 individuals and 100 small businesses, helping clients achieve financial confidence through an integrated approach to tax planning, accounting, insurance, and investment strategy. His journey from corporate accounting to entrepreneurship is one of continual evolution—driven by a desire to serve clients in a deeper, more meaningful way.

Ed shares how the EA credential empowered him to expand beyond compliance work, how tax pros can confidently step into the world of financial advising, and why creating year-round relationships is the key to long-term client value.

Key Takeaways

• Learn how to add wealth management services to your EA practice

• Understand why tax strategy and financial planning are inseparable

• Discover how to build year-round relationships that increase client loyalty

• Hear how to balance compliance, advisory, and growth as your firm scales

• Get insight into the mindset shift needed to move from tax preparer to trusted advisor

In This Episode:

• [00:00:00] From insurance and corporate accounting to entrepreneurship

• [00:03:20] Launching Ryan Financial and discovering a passion for helping people

• [00:05:00] How tax expertise drives better financial advice

• [00:07:56] Why Ed chose the EA credential over CPA licensing

• [00:09:43] The EA advantage: integrating tax impact into wealth management

• [00:12:28] The mindset shift from compliance work to proactive advising

• [00:17:31] Balancing client service, team growth, and business expansion

• [00:20:38] Real client stories: 1031 exchanges, estate planning, and generational trust

• [00:26:17] Coaching other advisors through Avantax’s Rise to Elite program

• [00:29:39] Advice for EAs ready to enter the wealth management field

• [00:33:23] Creating lasting client value beyond tax season

Notable Quotes

• “If you want to give advice—not just prepare taxes—then wealth management is the natural next step.” – Edward J. Ryan, Jr.

• “EAs are trained in taxes. That makes us the most qualified to integrate tax strategy into financial planning.” – Edward J. Ryan, Jr.

• “When your clients call you more than once a year, that’s when you’ve created real value.” – Edward J. Ryan, Jr.

• “You can’t just say you do both tax and wealth management—you have to be competent at both.” – Edward J. Ryan, Jr.

• “Adding wealth management isn’t about selling—it’s about serving clients better.” – Edward J. Ryan, Jr.

Our Guest

Edward J. Ryan, Jr., EA is the founder of Ryan Financial Group, a full-service tax and wealth management firm serving clients across New Jersey and New York. An Enrolled Agent since 1996, Ed combines decades of tax expertise with financial planning through Avantax Wealth Management, helping families and small businesses achieve long-term success.

Recognized as one of HD Vest’s Top 75 Advisors, Ed is a coach for Avantax’s Rise to Elite Program and serves as Treasurer and Finance Committee Chair for the National Association of Enrolled Agents (NAEA). He’s also an active member of the New Jersey Society of Enrolled Agents and a dedicated community leader in Rutherford, New Jersey, where he lives with his wife, Lisa.

Resource & Links

The Enrolled Agent Advocate Podcast

• The Enrolled Agent Advocate

Brandy Spears

• LinkedIn

• Website - NAEA.org

Edward J. Ryan, Jr., EA

• Website - Ryan Financial Group
  

In this episode, host Brandy Spears sits down with Terry Lemons, former Chief of Communications and Liaison at the IRS, to explore what really happens behind the scenes at one of the most complex federal agencies in the U.S. For more than 25 years, Terry helped shape how the IRS communicated with the public, Congress, and the tax professional community—serving under six commissioners and leading the agency’s response to major legislative changes.

From launching the Dirty Dozen tax scams to modernizing digital outreach, Terry has seen it all. Now, he offers his insight into what’s ahead for the IRS, how budget cuts and workforce reductions could impact the 2026 tax season, and why enrolled agents are more vital than ever in combating misinformation, shaping policy, and advocating for taxpayers.

(Note: This episode was recorded prior to the government shutdown. Information and perspectives shared reflect the circumstances at that time.)

Why Listen

• Go behind the curtain of IRS communications, staffing, and legislative rollout

• Learn how misinformation and AI are shaping the agency’s biggest risks

• Understand why the IRS budget directly affects tax pros and client service

• Hear how EAs can build trust and influence policy at both local and national levels

• Get tips on advocacy, visibility, and what to watch for ahead of 2026

In This Episode

• [00:00:00] Terry’s journey from journalist to IRS leadership

• [00:04:00] Building trust in an age of AI and information overload

• [00:07:00] Storytelling, scams, and the power of public communication

• [00:12:00] Budget cuts, burnout, and the fragility of implementation

• [00:15:00] Red flags for the 2026 filing season and the EA’s frontline role

• [00:20:00] Talking to Congress: Why EAs must speak up locally

• [00:24:00] Modernization, visibility, and two-way communication with the IRS

• [00:27:00] What Terry would put at the top of today’s Dirty Dozen list

Notable Quotes

• “Crisis creates opportunity—and enrolled agents are uniquely positioned to lead through both.” – Terry Lemons

• “You can’t run the tax system without enrolled agents. Period.” – Terry Lemons

• “Congress gives big legislation to the IRS because they know we deliver—quietly, under pressure, and with limited resources.” – Terry Lemons

• “EAs don’t need to wait for May fly-ins to speak up. Talk to your local reps now.” – Terry Lemons

Our Guest

Terry Lemons is a communications strategist and former Chief of Communications and Liaison at the IRS, where he served for over 26 years. He oversaw the IRS’s public affairs, crisis communications, and congressional relations, advising six IRS commissioners along the way. Terry was the mastermind behind high-profile initiatives like the Dirty Dozen tax scam list and played a pivotal role in modernizing the IRS’s social media presence.

Before joining the IRS, Terry was an award-winning journalist, covering the White House and Congress for the Arkansas Democrat-Gazette during the 1990s. He has since used his expertise to help the IRS navigate some of the most complex communications challenges, including tax-related identity theft, the introduction of major tax reforms, and ongoing public outreach efforts.

Terry’s career is a testament to his ability to simplify complex subjects, build public trust, and guide key players through some of the toughest times in government communications.

Resource & Links

The Enrolled Agent Advocate Podcast

• The Enrolled Agent Advocate

Brandy Spears

• LinkedIn

• Website - NAEA.org

Terry Lemons

• LinkedIn
  

In this episode, host Brandy Spears is joined by Jeremy Wells, an Enrolled Agent, Certified Public Accountant, and the newly appointed Editor-in-Chief of the EA Journal. Jeremy shares his journey from teaching political science to becoming a tax professional and how his unique path has shaped his approach to tax law, client service, and leadership in the profession.

Jeremy talks about his decision to pursue the EA credential first, his transition to becoming a CPA, and why mentoring has been key to his growth. He also shares his experience as the new editor of the EA Journal, his vision for the journal, and how he plans to elevate the voices of EAs across the profession.

Why Listen

• Hear how Jeremy navigated his transition from academia to tax

• Learn why starting with the EA credential can be a game-changer

• Discover how mentorship and networking played pivotal roles in his career

• Get an insider’s look at the future of the EA Journal under Jeremy’s leadership

• Understand how cross-platform content creation is shaping the future of tax practice

In This Episode:

• [00:00:00] From Political Science to Tax — Jeremy’s unexpected career shift

• [00:06:00] How mentoring shaped Jeremy’s path to the EA credential

• [00:12:00] The value of starting with the EA before pursuing the CPA

• [00:14:00] How Jeremy uses mentorship and networking to enhance client service

• [00:20:00] Becoming the Editor-in-Chief of the EA Journal

• [00:24:00] The importance of authentic content creation for tax professionals

• [00:30:00] Vision for the EA Journal: Elevating EAs and supporting new talent

• [00:34:00] The next generation of EAs and why they need a different approach

• [00:40:00] Advice for new tax professionals: Don’t wait to start, just dive in

Notable Quotes

• “The best thing I did was start with the EA credential. It gave me the power to help clients right away.” – Jeremy Wells

• “Mentorship is key — I wouldn’t have been able to make this leap without the right guidance.” – Jeremy Wells

• “We need to help new tax professionals find their voice, not just in tax law but in shaping their own businesses.” – Jeremy Wells

• “As the Editor-in-Chief, my goal is to give EAs the platform they deserve — and help them lead the conversation.” – Jeremy Wells

Our Guest

Jeremy Wells is an Enrolled Agent (EA), Certified Public Accountant (CPA), and the newly appointed Editor-in-Chief of the EA Journal. He is the COO and Head of Tax at Steadfast Bookkeeping and the founder of J. Wells Tax, a platform that provides educational content for tax professionals. Jeremy earned his EA credential in 2018 and his CPA license in 2022, building his career by focusing on tax services for freelancers, small business owners, and individuals.

A passionate mentor and advocate for innovation in the tax profession, Jeremy works to bridge the gap between traditional practices and modern approaches to tax law and business operations. He is an active member of several tax organizations, including NAEA and AICPA, and uses his position to raise awareness for the profession and foster education in the field.

Resource & Links

The Enrolled Agent Advocate Podcast

• The Enrolled Agent Advocate

Brandy Spears

• LinkedIn

• Website - NAEA.org

Jeremey Wells

• LinkedIn
  

Feeling overwhelmed, underpaid, or stuck in a model that doesn’t serve you or your clients? In this episode, host Brandy Spears sits down with Colin Dunn, Chartered Accountant and Co-Founder of Renew Group, to talk about redesigning tax and accounting firms for clarity, profitability, and sanity.

Colin shares what it means to truly “design a firm that works for you,” how to rethink your client mix, pricing, and service model — and why so many professionals operate by default instead of by design. You’ll also hear his take on burnout, boundaries, transformation through community, and why a firm built on value can actually free up your time.

If you’ve ever thought “there has to be a better way,” this conversation will show you that there is — and how to take the first step toward it.

Why Listen

• Learn how to reduce scope creep and fire the wrong clients

• Hear how advisory pricing and packaging can shift your firm’s future

• Understand the difference between running by default vs. design

• Explore what modern professionals want — and how to attract them

• Get tactical tips for time-blocking, pricing, positioning, and systems

In This Episode

• [00:00:00] Colin’s career journey and the “accidental” launch of Renew Group

• [00:06:00] The root issue most firms don’t see: broken business models

• [00:13:00] Making your firm the #1 client (and why it matters)

• [00:18:00] Pricing with confidence and creating value-led packages

• [00:24:00] Community, accountability, and not reinventing the wheel

• [00:30:00] Hiring advice: Would you work for you?

• [00:36:00] Stop chasing tech and staff — fix your tier one issues

• [00:43:00] 40-hour firms, abundant mindsets, and what comes next

Notable Quotes

• “You can’t attract great team members if your firm isn’t something you’d want to work for.” – Colin Dunn

• “Stop building the plane while flying it. Design your firm — don’t just let it happen.” – Colin Dunn

• “Raise your prices. Fire the wrong clients. Rip off the Band-Aid.” – Colin Dunn

• “Work should fuel your life — not replace it.” – Colin Dunn

Our Guest

Colin Dunn is a Chartered Accountant and Co-Founder of Renew Group, where he helps tax and accounting professionals transform their business models, client relationships, and profitability. With nearly 30 years of experience coaching firm owners and creating global communities, Colin focuses on helping practitioners move from overwhelm to clarity by designing firms that align with their lives — not run them. He’s a speaker, educator, and advocate for the “40-hour firm” mindset, where profitability, team satisfaction, and personal freedom can coexist.

Resource & Links

The Enrolled Agent Advocate Podcast

• The Enrolled Agent Advocate

Brandy Spears

• LinkedIn

• Website - NAEA.org

Colin Dunn

• LinkedIn

• Website - Renew Group

  
  

  
  

In this episode, host Brandy Spears sits down with Nayo Carter-Gray, an Enrolled Agent and the founder of First Step Accounting, a fully virtual, eco-conscious accounting firm. Nayo, a proud tech enthusiast and educator, talks about how her journey from high school accounting class to becoming an advocate for diversity and inclusion in the profession has shaped her career and her practice.

Nayo shares her experience of becoming an EA, how technology has helped her design a virtual paperless firm, and why it’s crucial for tax professionals to embrace tech to improve both client service and work-life balance. She also discusses the importance of inclusivity in the profession, how she works to support underserved communities, and why advocating for the next generation of tax professionals is at the core of her mission.

Why Listen

• Discover how technology can improve small business accounting and client service

• Learn why paperless practices are more efficient and eco-friendly

• Hear how Nayo bridges the gap for underrepresented communities in the profession

• Get advice on pricing, client service, and work-life balance for modern accountants

• Understand how embracing diversity and tech can shape the future of tax work

In this episode:

• [00:00:00] Nayo’s accidental start in accounting and how it became a lifelong passion

• [00:06:00] How Nayo transitioned from corporate to founding a virtual firm

• [00:12:00] The power of tech: QuickBooks, cloud-based solutions, and a paperless practice

• [00:16:00] How Nayo supports underserved communities with tax education

• [00:22:00] The importance of embracing change in tax practices and pricing strategies

• [00:28:00] How Nayo leads with education and fosters a community of growth

• [00:34:00] Overcoming the challenge of balancing work, tech, and human connection

• [00:40:00] Nayo’s leadership role in advocating for more inclusive, innovative tax practices

Notable Quotes

• “You have to show up for yourself first — then you can show up for your clients and your community.” – Nayo Carter-Gray

• “Technology is my love language, but it’s all about using it to serve people, not replace them.” – Nayo Carter-Gray

• “I don’t just teach tax; I teach others how to own their value, take up space, and advocate for themselves.” – Nayo Carter-Gray

• “Our work can’t just be about numbers. It’s about people, relationships, and making an impact.” – Nayo Carter-Gray

Our Guest

Nayo Carter-Gray is an Enrolled Agent and the founder of First Step Accounting, a fully virtual, paperless firm that helps small businesses across the U.S. with cloud-based accounting solutions. With over 25 years of tax and accounting experience, Nayo specializes in helping entrepreneurs simplify their financial processes using technology, ensuring efficiency and eco-friendliness.

Nayo is also a passionate advocate for inclusion in the accounting profession and currently serves as the immediate past chair of the NAEA’s Diversity, Equity, and Inclusion Committee. She has served on advisory boards for Intuit, FreshBooks, and Gusto. Named one of Hubdoc’s Top 50 Cloud Accountants (North America), Nayo is a QuickBooks Online Advanced Certified ProAdvisor who strives to make tax and accounting more accessible, modern, and impactful for underserved communities.

Resource & Links

The Enrolled Agent Advocate Podcast

• The Enrolled Agent Advocate

Brandy Spears

• LinkedIn

• Website - NAEA.org

Nayo Carter Gray, EA

• LinkedIn

• Website - First Step Accounting
  

In this episode of The Enrolled Agent Advocate, host Brandy Spears sits down with David King, CEO of Optima Tax Relief, a leading tax relief firm. With over 12 years of experience in financial services, David shares how he built a client-first culture at Optima, focusing on customer service and creating a company where clients feel heard and supported through the tax resolution process.

David discusses his transition from the mortgage industry to tax relief, the leadership principles that shaped Optima’s growth, and how the “Client Comes First” approach is embedded into every aspect of their business. He also talks about how tax professionals can foster lasting relationships with their clients, and the future of customer service in the tax industry.

This episode is full of insights into leadership, customer service, and the importance of creating trust between clients and tax professionals. Whether you’re a tax pro working directly with clients or running your own firm, David’s approach to client relationships and leadership will resonate.

Why Listen:

• Learn how to build a client-first culture in your tax practice

• Discover the leadership principles that drive Optima Tax Relief

• Hear how a focus on customer service can fuel growth in the tax relief industry

• Get actionable advice on client retention, trust-building, and service excellence

In This Episode:

• [00:00:00] Welcome to the Enrolled Agent Advocate

• [00:01:10] Meet David King: From mortgage leadership to tax relief CEO

• [00:02:50] The importance of customer service in financial services

• [00:04:30] Transitioning from Secured Funding to Optima Tax Relief

• [00:06:00] The power of a “Client Comes First” approach

• [00:08:20] What makes Optima Tax Relief stand out in a crowded market

• [00:11:00] How sales management practices in mortgage applied to tax relief

• [00:13:00] Building trust: How to make clients feel heard and supported

• [00:15:00] Developing leadership in your tax firm or company

• [00:17:30] The future of customer service in the tax industry

• [00:19:00] Advice for tax professionals looking to grow their practice

• [00:21:15] What’s next for Optima Tax Relief and David’s vision for the company

• [00:23:00] Final thoughts and takeaways on leadership and customer service

Notable Quotes

• “The key to growth is making sure your clients always feel like they come first.” — David King

• “In any service industry, if you’re not creating trust, you’re not creating clients for life.” — David King

• “Building a client-first culture isn’t just about selling—it’s about long-term relationships.” — David King

• “Customer service can be your strongest differentiator in a competitive market.” — David King

Our Guest

David King is the CEO of Optima Tax Relief, bringing over 12 years of experience in growing and leading financial services firms. With a focus on client-first principles, David played a pivotal role in shaping Optima’s success, establishing a culture of service excellence and client advocacy. Before joining Optima, David held a leadership position at Secured Funding, where he pioneered best practices in sales management in the mortgage industry. Today, David continues to lead Optima Tax Relief with a focus on innovation, customer care, and making tax relief accessible for individuals in need.

Resource & Links

The Enrolled Agent Advocate Podcast

• The Enrolled Agent Advocate

Brandy Spears

• LinkedIn

• Website - NAEA.org

David King

• LinkedIn

• Website - Optima Tax Relief
  

In this powerful episode, host Brandy Spears is joined by Ruben D. Valdes, EA, one of fewer than 250 non-attorneys admitted to practice before the United States Tax Court. From preparing returns in his mother’s office to becoming a nationally recognized instructor and advocate, Ruben shares how the EA credential helped him elevate his career — and expand taxpayer access to justice.

Ruben opens up about how he passed the U.S. Tax Court exam, the stories behind high-stakes audits, and why Spanish-speaking communities are disproportionately vulnerable when facing the IRS. He also shares hard truths about burnout in representation work, and why the tax profession needs more education, more empathy, and more EAs.

This episode is part inspiration, part instruction, and a call to action for enrolled agents to step into the full power of their credential.

Why Listen

• Hear how Ruben transitioned from tax prep to full-time IRS representation

• Learn how he passed the U.S. Tax Court exam as a non-attorney

• Understand how language and education affect taxpayer rights and access

• Discover how the EA credential opens doors to high-level advocacy

• Get practical insights into tax controversy, client care, and boundaries

  
  

In This Episode:

• [00:00:00] From family firm to federal tax court: Ruben’s story

• [00:06:00] Choosing the EA path over law school

• [00:08:00] What the U.S. Tax Court exam really takes

• [00:14:00] Advocacy in action: when audits go too far

• [00:22:00] The language gap: how Spanish-speaking taxpayers fall behind

• [00:30:00] Why it’s time for more EAs to step up — and show up

Notable Quotes

• “The enrolled agent credential gave me the power to protect taxpayers — and a purpose I didn’t expect.” – Ruben D. Valdes

• “Most people invite me after the party. But if they brought me in earlier, they’d save thousands.” – Ruben D. Valdes

• “Tax law is complicated in English. Now imagine reading it when English isn’t your first language.” – Ruben D. Valdes

• “I don’t write the songs — I just sing them. Don’t blame your tax pro for the law.” – Ruben D. Valdes

Our Guest

Ruben D. Valdes, EA, USTCP is the founder of National Tax Problem Solutions, where he specializes in representing clients in IRS examinations, collections, and appeals. He is one of fewer than 250 non-attorneys in the U.S. admitted to practice before the United States Tax Court.

A nationally recognized tax instructor and author, Ruben has developed and taught both foundational and advanced courses in areas such as international tax, tax controversy, and strategic planning. His mission centers on educating both taxpayers and practitioners — particularly Spanish-speaking communities — about their rights and responsibilities under the tax law.

He authored Manejando Auditorías: Herramientas poderosas ante el IRS, the first Spanish-language book on handling IRS audits, and contributed to the EA Journal with his article “Tax Court Says: IRS Timely Responded, Your Offer is Not Deemed Accepted” (Dec. 2022). Ruben is a firm believer that high-level education leads to higher voluntary compliance and more equitable outcomes in tax administration.

Resource & Links

The Enrolled Agent Advocate Podcast

• The Enrolled Agent Advocate

Brandy Spears

• LinkedIn

• Website - NAEA.org

Ruben D Valdes, EA, USTCP

• LinkedIn

• Website - National Tax Problem Solutions