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The Modern Firm®
The Modern Firm® episodes
- A new season, a new vision: Re-establishing what it means to be a Modern Firm (Episode 31)
What does it really mean to be a modern firm in today’s constantly evolving landscape?
In this episode of The Modern Firm® podcast, host TJ Lewis sets the stage for the new season. With a focus on innovation and evolution, TJ redefines what it means to be a modern accounting firm—not as a fixed destination, but as an ongoing journey rooted in a growth mindset. He highlights the key pillars that shape modern firms: business model, clients, staff, and technology.
Throughout the season, listeners can expect insightful conversations with industry experts on how to navigate change, embrace innovation, and move their firms forward. TJ also shares his experience developing a tool designed to assess and prioritize change, along with key lessons learned in that process. Additionally, he emphasizes the importance of community as a way to "find your people," fostering learning, accountability, and support.
Resources and Links:
RightNOW25 conference: https://events.rightworks.com/event/rightnow2025/rightnow-2025
Rightworks Community: https://rightworkscommunity.circle.so/c/start-here/The Modern Firm® is produced and owned by Rightworks. You can learn more about the podcast, episode recaps and more at rightworks.com/resources/podcasts.
Follow Rightworks on social:
Twitter: https://twitter.com/rightworks_
Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/rightworksllc
LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/company/rightworks
Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/rightworks_20 min - When knowledge walks out the door: AI is the solution (Ep. 30)
Is your firm prepared to retain critical knowledge when long-term employees leave?
Welcome to The Modern Firm® podcast, moderated by John Mitchell, who is joined by Ted McRae, Director of Demand at Makers Hub and a 30-year veteran of the accounting technology industry. In this episode, John and Ted tackle the pressing issue of knowledge retention in accounting firms. With only 23% of firms regularly documenting their processes, Ted shares practical insights on how AI can help capture and preserve critical operational knowledge before it walks out the door with departing employees.
They explore the evolution from the World Wide Web era to today's AI-first era, discussing how tools like ChatGPT and Perplexity can help firms create better documentation, enhance security protocols, and free up time for higher-value activities. Tune in for actionable advice on transitioning to an AI-first mindset while maintaining focus on what matters most: people and client service.
The Modern Firm® is produced and owned by Rightworks. You can learn more about the podcast, episode recaps and more at rightworks.com/resources/podcasts.
Follow Rightworks on social:
Twitter: https://twitter.com/rightworks_
Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/rightworksllc
LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/company/rightworks
Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/rightworks_32 min - New Year predictions: Get ready for 2025 (Ep. 29)What will transform the accounting profession in 2025?
Join John Mitchell and Darren Root as they share their bold predictions and insights for the coming year. From Apple’s AI integration to quantum computing breakthroughs, discover how emerging technologies will reshape client service and workplace dynamics. Learn why strategic technology adoption combined with strong leadership could create unprecedented opportunities for firms to enhance both efficiency and work-life balance.
About The Modern Firm® podcast
This episode of The Modern Firm podcast was brought to you by Rightworks. It features John Mitchell, Culture and Workforce Advisor at Rightworks, and Darren Root, Founder of Rightworks Academy and Growth Strategist for Rightworks. For more episodes, recaps, and resources, visit rightworks.com/resources/podcasts.
***
Follow Rightworks on social:
Twitter: https://twitter.com/rightworks_
Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/rightworksllc
LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/company/rightworks
Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/rightworks_29 min - AI gadgets and goodies for the holidays: Darren and John top picks (Ep. 28)How will AI transform your everyday experiences?
Join John Mitchell and Darren Root as they explore the latest tech innovations and discuss how AI is becoming more personal than ever. From Apple’s newest AI features to essential work-from-home gadgets, discover how these tools are reshaping our daily routines. Learn practical tips for leveraging technology while maintaining security and professionalism in an increasingly connected world.
About The Modern Firm® podcast
This episode of The Modern Firm podcast was brought to you by Rightworks. It features Rightworks Growth Strategist, Darren Root, and Rightworks Culture and Workforce Advisor, John Mitchell.
For more episodes, recaps, and resources, visit rightworks.com/resources/podcasts.
*** Follow Rightworks on social:
Twitter: https://twitter.com/rightworks_
Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/rightworksllc
LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/company/rightworks
Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/rightworks_26 min - New Year predictions: Get ready for 2025 (Ep. 29)What will transform the accounting profession in 2025?
Join John Mitchell and Darren Root as they share their bold predictions and insights for the coming year. From Apple’s AI integration to quantum computing breakthroughs, discover how emerging technologies will reshape client service and workplace dynamics. Learn why strategic technology adoption combined with strong leadership could create unprecedented opportunities for firms to enhance both efficiency and work-life balance.
About The Modern Firm® podcast
This episode of The Modern Firm podcast was brought to you by Rightworks. It features John Mitchell, Culture and Workforce Advisor at Rightworks, and Darren Root, Founder of Rightworks Academy and Growth Strategist for Rightworks. For more episodes, recaps, and resources, visit rightworks.com/resources/podcasts.
***
Follow Rightworks on social:
Twitter: https://twitter.com/rightworks_
Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/rightworksllc
LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/company/rightworks
Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/rightworks_29 min - Securing all entrances: Cybersecurity layers for your firm (Ep. 27)Does your firm have a false sense of security?
Did you know that 94% of small businesses have experienced a cybersecurity event?
In this episode of The Modern Firm podcast, Mike Ellerhorst, CEO of NTM Advisory, explains why accounting firms are prime targets and shares practical strategies for protecting your business. You’ll learn about the three main entry points hackers use to breach systems and how to build effective security layers to protect your firm, your clients and your reputation. Discover why security isn’t just a technology problem, but a critical business challenge that requires constant attention.
This episode of The Modern Firm podcast was brought to you by Rightworks. It was moderated and led by John Mitchell, Culture and Workforce Advisor at Rightworks, and Darren Root, Founder of Rightworks Academy and Growth Strategist for Rightworks, with Mike Ellerhorst, CEO of NTM Advisory, as the guest.
For more episodes, recaps, and resources, visit rightworks.com/resources/podcasts.
***
Follow Rightworks on social:
Twitter: https://twitter.com/rightworks_
Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/rightworksllc
LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/company/rightworks
Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/rightworks_31 min - Succession planning: Important aspects of a successful accounting practice sale (Ep.26)Are you leaving money on the table when it comes to your firm’s value?
This episode serves up a fresh take on succession planning with industry leaders Todd Steinberg and Chris Tabb. These experts shed light on why most accounting firms are caught off guard when planning for the future. They share insider knowledge on everything from location to client mix that’ll catch the eyes of potential buyers. And if you thought private equity was just for the big firms, think again–these guys explain how it’s reshaping the entire profession. Tune in for a fascinating journey through accounting firm valuations and exit strategies!
***
The Modern Firm® is produced and owned by Rightworks. You can learn more about the podcast, episode recaps and more at rightworks.com/resources/podcasts.
Follow Rightworks on social:
Twitter: https://twitter.com/rightworks_
Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/rightworksllc
LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/company/rightworks
Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/rightworks_32 min - The psychology of tech purchases: Revealing common barriers and how to move forward, faster (Ep. 25)Welcome to The Modern Firm® podcast, with guest moderator Dr. Kristy Short, Senior Director of Content Strategy for Rightworks, who is joined by Roman Kepczyk, Director of Firm Technology Strategy for Rightworks.
In this episode, Kristy and Roman navigate the psychology behind technology purchasing decisions in accounting firms and the common barriers firms face—cultural resistance, cost concerns and risk aversion—when considering major tech investments. Whether you’re a tech-savvy accountant or navigating these waters for the first time, this episode provides valuable insights to help you sail smoothly through the complexities of tech adoption.
***
The Modern Firm® is produced and owned by Rightworks. You can learn more about the podcast, episode recaps and more at rightworks.com/resources/podcasts.
Follow Rightworks on social:
Twitter: https://twitter.com/rightworks_
Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/rightworksllc
LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/company/rightworks
Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/rightworks_38 min - Do you know your firm’s security risk level? (Ep. 24)Welcome to The Modern Firm® podcast, hosted by guest moderator Dr. Kristy Short, Senior Director of Content Strategy for Rightworks, who is joined by Dr. Molly Boddy, Director of Product Marketing at Rightworks.
In this episode, Kristy and Molly tackle the vital topic of security in the accounting profession. Molly, an expert in security and compliance, outlines the biggest threats facing firms today—from data breaches to reputational risks—and discusses the importance of staying compliant with IRS requirements. Tune in for practical advice on how firms can assess their security risks, enhance their security measures and take steps to build both client trust and compliance.
***
The Modern Firm® is produced and owned by Rightworks. You can learn more about the podcast, episode recaps and more at rightworks.com/resources/podcasts.
Follow Rightworks on social:
Twitter: https://twitter.com/rightworks_
Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/rightworksllc
LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/company/rightworks
Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/rightworks_29 min - Connected leadership: How to cultivate a fulfilling work life for staff (Ep. 23)Welcome to The Modern Firm® podcast, hosted by Darren Root, Growth Strategist for Rightworks, founder of Rootworks (now Rightworks Academy) and an accounting firm owner for over 30 years, and John Mitchell, Culture and Workforce Advisor for Rightworks. In this episode, Darren and John host a captivating conversation with Amy Vetter, CPA, CEO of The B3 Method Institute and certified yoga instructor, who shares her inspiring journey of combining yoga principles with her accounting career. They dive deep into the concept of connected leadership, where self-awareness and mindfulness transform traditional leadership. Tune in to hear how Amy redefines soft skills as essential hard skills—and how they can impact your leadership style.
*** The Modern Firm® is produced and owned by Rightworks. You can learn more about the podcast, episode recaps and more at rightworks.com/resources/podcasts.
Follow Rightworks on social:
Twitter: https://twitter.com/rightworks_
Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/rightworksllc
LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/company/rightworks
Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/rightworks_26 min
About The Modern Firm®
From the publisher's feed
The hot-topic podcast where firms, thought leaders, influencers, and research nerds converge, collaborate, speak out and dig into common…
challenges impacting accounting firms. We ask the critical questions on topics that matter—from the pipeline shortage and security threats to the “how–the–hell–can–anyone–keep–up” pace of technology change—and then work to amplify actionable guidance and takeaways for firms. Join TJ Lewis and other dedicated industry champions who all have a single, focused goal: Moving the profession forward.