The Young CPA Success Show

“One thing that I love so much about this firm is that you've got the resources and the leadership to back you up when it comes to trying something new.” – Trey Meier 

The finer details of this episode:

• Current state of recruiting at Anders accounting firm
• Firm's growth and expansion beyond St. Louis
• Strategies for attracting entry-level and experienced professionals
• Importance of company culture and professional development opportunities
• Adaptability to remote work and creating a welcoming environment
• Networking and relationship-building initiatives for young professionals
• Differences in recruiting strategies for various candidate experience levels
• Emphasis on personal attention and treating employees as individuals
• Use of technology and innovative practices in recruitment
• Encouragement for candidates to actively engage and advocate for themselves during the hiring process

Episode resources:

• Summit Virtual CFO by Anders website: https://www.summitcpa.net/
• Email us with questions or if you’d like to be a guest on the show: [email protected]
• We’re hiring! Check out our open positions: https://www.summitcpa.net/career-opportunities
• Connect with Trey here: https://anderscpa.com/team-member/trey-r-meier/
• Check out Anders here: https://anderscpa.com

Timestamps:

Welcome to the Young CPA Success Show (00:00:00)

Introduction to the podcast and its purpose for young accounting professionals.

Introduction of Guests (00:00:23)

Joey welcomes Trey Meier from Anders Recruiting and discusses their long-awaited conversation.

Firm's Growth and Culture (00:01:06)

Trey shares insights on Anders' positive changes and culture during his five years with the firm.

Recruiting Strategy Overview (00:01:43)

Discussion on Anders' strategy to enhance its reputation and attract talent beyond St. Louis.

Expanding Recruitment Efforts (00:02:29)

Trey explains outreach to more universities and early engagement with students.

Experiential vs. Campus Recruitment (00:04:44)

Differentiating the experiential side of recruiting from university outreach efforts.

Recruiting Strategies for Different Audiences (00:06:01)

Trey discusses tailored approaches for recruiting entry-level and experienced professionals.

Networking Importance (00:07:03)

Highlighting the significance of networking for young professionals at Anders.

Selling Points for Anders (00:09:44)

Trey identifies the firm’s unique culture and personal attention as key recruiting advantages.

Work-Life Balance and Flexibility (00:11:06)

Discussion on the firm's adaptation to flexible work environments and its benefits.

Personal Experience with Hybrid Work (00:12:45)

Joey shares a positive experience with Anders' hybrid work arrangements and technology.

Welcoming Environment at Anders (00:14:08)

Trey emphasizes the firm’s commitment to making all employees feel valued and welcome.

Adapting to Global Reach (00:15:11)

Exploration of how Anders is adjusting internal practices for a broader, remote workforce.

Recruiting Strategies and Brand Awareness (00:15:27)

Discussion on expanding Anders' brand recognition beyond St. Louis through marketing partnerships.

Adapting to Remote Work (00:15:59)

Exploration of maintaining firm culture and engagement with remote employees through internal events.

Learning and Pivoting (00:16:44)

Emphasis on continuous learning and adapting recruiting strategies based on what works and what doesn’t.

Family Feel at Anders (00:17:30)

Description of the supportive, family-like environment within the firm, fostering collaboration across teams.

Leadership Engagement (00:18:21)

Personal anecdote about feeling acknowledged by firm leadership, highlighting a unique company culture.

Advice for College Graduates (00:20:04)

Encouragement for college students to reach out and explore job opportunities actively.

Importance of Outreach (00:21:10)

Highlighting the necessity of direct communication with firms to understand their culture and opportunities.

Advocating for Yourself (00:24:02)

Discussion on the importance of candidates advocating for their needs during the job search process.

Interviewing the Company (00:25:03)

Encouragement for candidates to interview potential employers to ensure mutual fit.

Networking and Building Connections (00:27:02)

The significance of networking and maintaining relationships for future job opportunities.

Current Hiring Opportunities (00:28:38)

Overview of the firm's rapid growth and diverse hiring needs across multiple departments.

Engagement with Anders (00:30:00)

Encouragement for candidates to engage with the firm through social media and career pages for updates.

Introduction to Partner Stories (00:30:51)

Discussion on the success stories of new partners from non-traditional accounting backgrounds.

Opportunities in the Firm (00:31:53)

Emphasis on the vast opportunities available within the firm for various skill sets.

Referrals and Networking (00:31:56)

Importance of referrals and connecting with like-minded individuals for recruitment.

Personal Interests Outside Work (00:32:25)

Trey shares his hobbies, including sports and family activities outside of recruiting.

Sports Culture in St. Louis (00:33:30)

Conversation about St. Louis sports events and the firm’s connection to local sports.

Office Environment and Location (00:34:12)

Discussion on the firm’s modern office space and its proximity to sports venues.

Flexibility in Work Locations (00:35:03)

Overview of hybrid work options and the benefits of working from different office locations.

Engaging with Recruiters (00:36:15)

Encouragement for audience to connect with recruiters for networking and opportunities.

Contacting Trey (00:36:38)

Trey shares his availability and willingness to connect through various communication channels.

Closing Remarks (00:37:34)

Appreciation for Trey’s contributions to recruitment and the firm’s growth.

In this special episode of The Young CPA Success Show, four speakers with Halloween-themed personas—Jamie Nightmare, Hannah Hexed Hood, Adam Haunted Hale, and Joey Killing Kenny—engage in a lively draft-style discussion about their favorite Halloween movies. Jamie, the enthusiastic host, sets the stage and outlines the draft rules. Hannah humorously admits her limited horror movie experience, while Adam and Joey share their deep knowledge and personal anecdotes. The conversation is filled with playful banter and passionate debates as they each select and defend their top horror film picks, creating an engaging and entertaining Halloween-themed episode.

“I was stressed out, cranky, grouchy, and missing family events. That was the catalyst for me to figure out how to get Excel to do all the things I was doing manually.” – Jeff Lenning 

The finer details of this episode:

• Importance of Excel skills for young accounting professionals
• Gaps in Excel training within college education for accounting students
• Personal experiences of speakers regarding Excel proficiency and training
• Implementation of Excel training programs in organizations
• The versatility of Excel in both professional and personal projects
• Structure and content of comprehensive Excel training courses
• The impact of outdated methods in accounting practices
• The evolving role of technology and AI tools in accounting, including Excel

Episode resources:

• Summit Virtual CFO by Anders website: https://www.summitcpa.net/
• Email us with questions or if you’d like to be a guest on the show: [email protected]
• We’re hiring! Check out our open positions: https://www.summitcpa.net/career-opportunities
• Connect with Jeff here: https://www.linkedin.com/in/jefflenning/
• Check out Excel University here: https://www.excel-university.com/

Timestamps:

Introduction to the Podcast (00:00:00)

The hosts welcome listeners to "The Young CPA Success Show" and introduce the topic of Excel skills.

Excel in Early Careers (00:00:22)

Discussion on how college education often leaves graduates unprepared for Excel demands in accounting.

Feedback from Employers (00:00:54)

Employers express concerns about the Excel skills of recent graduates and the need for better training.

Excel Training at Summit Virtual CFO (00:01:59)

Insights into how Summit Virtual CFO addresses Excel skill gaps through dedicated training resources.

Course Structure for Excel Training (00:03:19)

An overview of the comprehensive six-course Excel training designed to prepare accounting professionals.

Genesis of Excel Skills in Auditing (00:04:43)

The importance of organizing data in audits and its relation to Excel skills developed during careers.

Challenges of Legacy Workbooks (00:05:36)

Discussion on the inefficiencies of using outdated Excel workbooks and the need for improvement.

Importance of Continuous Improvement (00:06:48)

The necessity of enhancing workbooks to reduce time spent on monthly closes and improve efficiency.

Excel's Longevity in Business (00:09:57)

Exploration of why Excel remains a dominant tool in business despite advancements in technology.

Excel's Versatility Beyond Accounting (00:12:48)

Personal anecdotes on using Excel for non-business projects, showcasing its broad applicability.

Half-Marathon Training in Excel (00:14:00)

Discussion on planning personal projects like training schedules and vacations using Excel.

First Half-Marathon Experience (00:15:24)

Speaker shares their experience of completing their first half-marathon and the challenges faced.

Maintaining Training Structure (00:16:13)

Importance of having structured training plans to stay motivated and consistent in exercise routines.

Here are the extracted timestamps and their titles in chronological order:

Running Routine and Energy Boost (00:17:48)

Discussion on morning runs and their impact on daily energy levels.

Exercise and Career Structure (00:19:10)

Connecting running routines to creating structure in professional engagements.

Discipline and Goal Setting (00:20:16)

The importance of discipline, planning, and setting goals in both running and career.

Value of Preparation Over the Race (00:20:21)

Emphasizing that the real value lies in preparation, not just completing the race.

Community Support in Races (00:22:50)

Highlighting the joy and community support experienced during marathons.

Excel University Overview (00:23:59)

Introduction to Excel University and its development over the past 12 years.

CPE Credits and Practical Skills (00:26:10)

Importance of practical skills in CPE courses for CPAs.

Evolution of CPE Training (00:27:37)

Discussion on the shift from traditional CPE classes to modern, interactive formats.

Course Structure and Support (00:28:35)

Overview of the blended learning approach in Excel courses, combining videos and live support.

Future of Excel with AI Integration (00:32:47)

Predictions on how Excel will evolve with AI technologies and user support features.

Microsoft Copilot Introduction (00:34:23)

Exploration of Microsoft Copilot as a native AI tool enhancing user experience in Excel.

Running and Music Preferences (00:35:59)

Discussion about music and nature during running, highlighting personal preferences.

Engaging the Mind While Running (00:37:05)

Speakers talk about using running time to think and develop ideas.

Favorite Podcasts (00:39:13)

Introduction of the "All In" podcast as a new favorite for engaging discussions.

Excel University Resources (00:40:26)

Information about Excel University courses and a free CPE course for CPAs.

“Finding a good mentor can be hard, but it is such a big deal. My internship opened my eyes to all the possibilities the industry has to offer.” – Chayton Farlee 

The finer details of this episode:

• The need for modernizing content delivery methods in the accounting profession.
• The potential of using platforms like TikTok and LinkedIn to engage younger audiences.
• The importance of mentorship and networking for accounting students.
• The challenges faced by students in understanding the diverse career paths in accounting.
• The significance of practical experience and internships in preparing for accounting careers.
• The role of storytelling in reshaping how accounting is viewed by prospective students.
• The importance of early outreach to students to highlight opportunities in accounting.

Episode resources:

• Summit Virtual CFO by Anders website: https://www.summitcpa.net/
• Email us with questions or if you’d like to be a guest on the show: [email protected]
• We’re hiring! Check out our open positions: https://www.summitcpa.net/career-opportunities
• Connect with Chayton here: https://www.linkedin.com/in/chaytonfarlee/

Timestamps:

Introduction to the Podcast (00:00:00)

The host welcomes listeners and outlines the podcast's purpose for young accounting professionals.

Need for Content Change (00:00:23)

Joey discusses the necessity to adapt their content creation strategy, suggesting a TikTok account.

Mixed Feelings About TikTok (00:00:37)

Hannah shares her apprehensions about using TikTok while acknowledging its potential to engage younger audiences.

Old Guys at the Party (00:01:00)

Joey compares their TikTok venture to being the older alumni at a college party, emphasizing the importance of relevance.

Responsibility to the Next Generation (00:01:54)

Joey reflects on the responsibility to disseminate information for the next generation entering the accounting field.

Influence of TikTok (00:02:23)

Hannah acknowledges TikTok's influence and the importance of storytelling in reaching audiences.

Potential LinkedIn Challenge (00:03:42)

Joey anticipates a LinkedIn challenge from Producer Rob to enhance their professional networking.

Building Professional Relationships (00:04:57)

Joey discusses the significance of cultivating professional connections and shares insights from Jaden on effective networking.

Chayton Farlee's Introduction (00:06:10)

The speakers introduce Chayton Farley, an accounting student, and invite him to share his background.

Chayton's Journey into Accounting (00:06:33)

Chayton recounts his journey into accounting, emphasizing his experiences during COVID and discovering his passion for the field.

Influence of Podcasts (00:08:54)

Chayton discusses how listening to accounting podcasts helped him understand the profession beyond classroom teachings.

Rebranding the Accounting Profession (00:16:02)

Chayton advocates for rebranding accounting to highlight its value-adding aspects beyond compliance and traditional roles.

Experiences from an Internship (00:20:39)

The conversation shifts to Chayton's current internship, exploring the differences between classroom learning and practical experience.

Chayton's Internship Experience (00:20:42)

Chayton shares insights about his internship, highlighting mentorship and practical experience with tax returns and firm management software.

Understanding Operations in Accounting (00:22:29)

Discussion on the importance of operations within accounting firms, often overlooked in traditional education.

Learning About Budgeting (00:23:33)

Joey emphasizes the significance of understanding budgeting in accounting, a concept rarely taught in school.

The Value of Mentorship (00:26:07)

Hannah reflects on the importance of mentorship, sharing her positive internship experience and its impact on her career.

Networking on LinkedIn (00:27:40)

Discussion on the benefits of networking on LinkedIn, including finding mentors and job opportunities.

Building Relationships over Transactions (00:34:08)

Chayton stresses the importance of cultivating genuine relationships rather than viewing networking as a transactional process.

Professors' Role in Student Networking (00:36:19)

Chayton suggests that professors should be more active on LinkedIn to help students connect with industry professionals.

Challenges of Content Creation on TikTok (00:38:15)

Joey discusses the difficulties accountants face in creating concise, engaging content on platforms like TikTok.

The Need for Quality Content (00:41:20)

Joey expresses concerns about the quality of accounting information shared on TikTok.

Discussion on TikTok Strategy (00:42:00)

The group discusses the potential of starting a TikTok account for engaging younger audiences.

Importance of Information Dissemination (00:42:10)

Joey emphasizes the responsibility of professionals to share digestible information with students.

Daily TikTok Clips Strategy (00:43:00)

Chayton shares his goal of posting daily short clips from his podcast on TikTok.

Changing Perspectives on Accounting (00:44:57)

Chayton discusses the negative perceptions of accounting compared to consulting and tech careers.

Challenges of Additional Education Costs (00:45:39)

Joey highlights the financial burden of pursuing an extra year of education for accounting.

Tech's Impact on Accounting (00:45:48)

Joey mentions how technology has changed the accounting landscape, affecting career choices.

Content Creation Ideas for Accounting (00:46:19)

Joey suggests creating relatable content showcasing modern accounting work-life.

Perception Issues in Accounting (00:47:09)

The speakers agree on the need to change outdated perceptions of accounting careers.

Highlighting Tech and Consulting in Accounting (00:48:34)

Chayton advocates for showcasing tech integration in accounting to attract new talent.

Flexibility in Modern Accounting Jobs (00:50:02)

Joey discusses the increased flexibility and work-life balance in contemporary accounting roles.

Encouraging Student Engagement (00:53:35)

Chayton suggests reaching out to students through virtual meetings to discuss diverse accounting careers.

Importance of Early Career Engagement (00:55:02)

Joey emphasizes the need to engage students early about accounting career opportunities.

Open Dialogue Between Generations (00:56:52)

Joey calls for open communication to understand what younger generations want from their careers.

Closing Thoughts and Connections (00:57:23)

Chayton shares how listeners can connect with him for further discussions and insights.

“I had a ton of imposter syndrome coming into this. It was severe, but it's been such a bright light in my life and career, getting to have honest conversations with folks.” – Hannah Hood

“If that is something that you're interested in, do the damn thing.” – Joey Kinney

The finer details of this episode:

• Importance of creating content tailored for young accounting professionals.
• Discussion of imposter syndrome and its prevalence in the accounting field.
• Reflection on the podcast's impact and growth over its first year.
• Recognition of the skills gap in middle management within the industry.
• Emphasis on the courage to pursue career changes and entrepreneurial ventures.
• The evolving landscape of entrepreneurship in accounting, facilitated by technology.
• The significance of mentorship and community support for young professionals.
• Celebration of the podcast's milestones and listener engagement.
• Encouragement for young CPAs to embrace their ambitions and seek guidance.
• Acknowledgment of the need for diverse perspectives, particularly from women in the industry.

Episode resources:

• Summit Virtual CFO by Anders website: https://www.summitcpa.net/
• Email us with questions or if you’d like to be a guest on the show: [email protected]
• We’re hiring! Check out our open positions: https://www.summitcpa.net/career-opportunities

Timestamps:

Welcome to the Young CPA Success Show (00:00:00)

Introduction to the podcast, aimed at guiding young accounting professionals in their careers.

Year in Review (00:00:22)

Discussion about the podcast's first year and the importance of recognizing team contributions.

Introducing Roxanne Raynor (00:01:50)

Roxanne shares her behind-the-scenes role and reflects on her experience with the podcast.

Rob Semos Joins the Conversation (00:02:10)

Rob introduces himself, discussing his background in video editing and his contributions to the podcast.

Hannah's Growth and Support (00:10:12)

Hannah expresses gratitude for support from her co-hosts and shares her rewarding experiences with the podcast.

Imposter Syndrome Discussion (00:11:03)

Hannah talks about overcoming imposter syndrome and the positive feedback received from listeners.

Highlighting Audience Engagement (00:11:35)

Hannah mentions reaching out to the audience for feedback and the podcast's impact on listeners.

Skills Gap in Middle Management (00:15:28)

Discussion on the skills gap in middle management and the need for solutions in the accounting industry.

Courage and Resiliency in Guests (00:18:25)

Joey highlights the courage shown by guests who take initiative to address industry challenges.

Courage to Take Action (00:19:34)

Discussion on the importance of courage in pursuing new skills and opportunities.

Soft Skills vs. Technical Skills (00:19:54)

Exploration of whether courage or skills are more crucial for career growth.

Barriers to Entry in Entrepreneurship (00:20:28)

Insights on how starting an accounting firm has become more accessible for young professionals.

The Impact of Technology on Opportunities (00:22:44)

Discussion on how technology and interconnectivity create new opportunities for young entrepreneurs.

Encouragement for Young Professionals (00:23:54)

Motivating young individuals to take advantage of the current landscape for career advancement.

Podcast Reach and Impact (00:25:13)

Reflection on the unexpected reach and impact of their podcast on listeners.

Download Statistics Reveal Success (00:26:41)

Sharing impressive download statistics and audience engagement with the podcast.

Favorite Listening Times (00:28:02)

Discussion on when listeners prefer to tune into the podcast, highlighting commute times.

Importance of the Podcast for Young Professionals (00:30:15)

Exploration of how the podcast addresses the challenges faced by young professionals in accounting.

Mentorship Reflections (00:31:27)

Hannah shares her thoughts on the importance of mentorship in career development.

The Journey and Its Lessons (00:32:52)

Discussion on how personal experiences shape the perspectives shared on the podcast.

Opportunities for Change in Accounting (00:35:08)

Encouragement to create transparency and change perceptions about the accounting profession.

Recommended Podcast Episodes (00:35:55)

Suggestions for past episodes that can benefit young professionals entering the industry.

Diversity of Perspectives in Podcast Guests (00:37:07)

Highlighting the variety of guests and perspectives shared on the show.

Celebrating One Year of the Podcast (00:38:22)

Reflection on the podcast's first anniversary and its significance.

Feeling Like a Mentor (00:39:04)

Discussion on personal feelings about mentorship and imposter syndrome.

Reflection on Growth (00:39:09)

Discussion on personal growth and opportunities gained since starting the show.

Role of a Mentor (00:39:45)

Speaker shares their desire to be a supportive figure rather than a traditional coach.

Celebrating One Year (00:40:52)

Acknowledgment of the podcast's first anniversary and its evolution from an idea to a successful show.

Gratitude for Team Support (00:41:14)

Expressions of thanks to team members who contributed to the podcast's success.

Cheers to Future Opportunities (00:41:52)

A toast to the past year and excitement for future endeavors, emphasizing camaraderie.

Career Development Opportunities (00:42:04)

Invitation for young CPAs to explore remote work opportunities and open positions.

“I want to make sure that whatever we create, it's not only conducive for my lifestyle but for my entire team.” – Jody Grunden

The finer details of this episode:

• Transformation of the accounting profession
• Changing perceptions within the accounting industry
• Importance of personal relationships and communication in professional success
• Experiences and challenges faced in public accounting and corporate roles
• Entrepreneurial journey and founding of Summit CPA Group
• Emphasis on work-life balance and flexible work environments
• Adoption of remote work and its impact on company culture
• Need for adaptability and innovation in accounting practices
• Role of soft skills and interpersonal relationships in future accounting careers
• Encouragement for young professionals to embrace change and seek personal development opportunities

Episode resources:

• Summit Virtual CFO by Anders website: https://www.summitcpa.net/
• Email us with questions or if you’d like to be a guest on the show: [email protected]
• We’re hiring! Check out our open positions: https://www.summitcpa.net/career-opportunities
• Connect with Jody here: https://www.linkedin.com/in/jodygrunden/
• Check out Summit Virtual CFO by Anders here: https://www.summitcpa.net/

Timestamps:

Welcome to the Young CPA Success Show (00:00:00)

Introduction to the podcast aimed at guiding young accounting professionals in their careers.

Changing Perceptions in Accounting (00:00:23)

Discussion about the importance of altering how the world perceives accounting.

Jody's Journey in Accounting (00:01:23)

Jody shares his background, from studying finance to discovering his passion for accounting.

Experiences in Public Accounting (00:02:35)

Jody recounts his challenging experiences in public accounting and the toll it took on him.

Transition to Corporate World (00:04:09)

Jody describes his shift from public accounting to corporate roles and initial enjoyment.

Starting an Entrepreneurial Journey (00:05:38)

Jody discusses leaving corporate life to run a small CPA firm and its challenges.

Creating Summit CFO (00:07:14)

Jody details the founding of Summit CFO, focusing on innovative practices and culture.

Changing the Way Accounting Works (00:08:42)

Jody emphasizes his goal to transform accounting practices for better work-life balance.

Pioneering New Accounting Practices (00:10:14)

Recognition of Jody as a pioneer in innovative accounting practices and culture.

Overcoming Obstacles in Accounting (00:12:01)

Discussion on turning challenges into opportunities and embracing change in the industry.

Building Team Culture (00:14:00)

The importance of intentional team culture and communication in remote work environments.

Risk and Change in Accounting (00:15:02)

Challenges accountants face with risk and change, and the need for adaptable team members.

Here are the extracted timestamps and their corresponding titles from the podcast episode transcription segment:

Going Remote: The Decision (00:15:42)

Discussion on the decision to go fully remote and initial reactions from the team.

Stand-Up Meetings and Culture (00:16:36)

Overview of stand-up meetings, starting with jokes, and fostering a collaborative culture.

Initial Resistance to Remote Work (00:17:14)

Team members express concerns about remote work; only one person agrees to the idea.

Office Renovation and Investment (00:18:32)

Details about the office renovation and the unexpected shift towards remote work.

Lessons from the Transition (00:19:17)

Reflections on the financial implications of the office renovation amidst the remote transition.

Adapting to Remote Work (00:20:03)

Gradual acceptance of remote work by team members and the eventual leasing of the office.

Listening vs. Acting (00:21:02)

Speaker discusses the importance of listening to feedback without feeling obligated to act on it.

The Entrepreneurial Spirit (00:22:16)

Exploration of the entrepreneurial mindset within the company and its impact on employee roles.

Compensation Structure and Flexibility (00:23:50)

Explanation of the compensation model that supports both ambition and security for employees.

Importance of Diverse Roles (00:27:06)

The necessity of having both ambitious and content employees for company success.

Evaluating Potential Hires (00:28:20)

Criteria for assessing candidates, including sports and teamwork experience beyond academics.

Remote Work Dynamics (00:29:46)

Discussion on the effectiveness of remote work and maintaining engagement through video calls.

Remote Work Presentation Tips (00:31:12)

Importance of professional camera presence and background during virtual interviews.

Creating Work-Life Boundaries (00:32:03)

Discussion on the necessity of having a designated workspace to separate work from personal life.

Flexibility in Remote Work (00:32:50)

Benefits of remote work include flexibility for personal emergencies and family commitments.

Task-Oriented vs. Hours-Driven Work (00:34:23)

Emphasis on productivity based on task completion rather than hours worked.

Balancing Career and Family (00:35:18)

Personal experiences of balancing a career in accounting with family responsibilities.

Company Culture and Flexibility (00:36:11)

Summit CFO’s supportive environment allows employees to prioritize family alongside work.

Personal Health Journey (00:37:15)

Speaker shares health improvements and lifestyle changes since joining Summit CFO.

Work-Life Integration (00:38:49)

Discussion on the shift from work-life balance to work-life integration for better fulfillment.

Vision for Accounting's Future (00:40:12)

Changing perceptions about accounting for clients and the industry, aiming for innovation.

AI's Impact on Accounting (00:45:58)

Predictions on how AI will transform traditional accounting roles and emphasize advisory services.

Importance of Soft Skills (00:47:40)

Highlighting the growing need for soft skills in accounting to build client relationships.

The Importance of Client Relationships (00:48:24)

Discusses a challenging client onboarding experience emphasizing the value of personal relationships in client retention.

The Power of Communication (00:48:38)

Highlights the necessity of communication skills for success in any profession, including accounting.

Curiosity in the Workplace (00:49:47)

Encourages questioning established practices to foster innovation and improve job performance.

The Cake Story Analogy (00:50:26)

Shares a humorous story illustrating the importance of understanding the reasons behind actions and practices.

Innovating Through Inquiry (00:51:14)

Explains how being curious and asking "why" can lead to better processes and innovation in the workplace.

Wrapping Up the Podcast (00:51:29)

Concludes the episode, expressing gratitude and excitement for future connections and opportunities.

Connecting with Jody (00:52:10)

Provides information on how listeners can connect with Jody and learn more about his work.

Invitation for Young CPAs (00:52:57)

Encourages young CPAs to explore career development opportunities with Summit CFO and Anders CPAs.

“Everyone in the accounting industry talks the lingo, the foreign language of accounting. We know what we're talking about. But, for our clients, most of them don’t. It’s our job to help them understand by translating our technical jargon into something simpler.” – Peter Margaritis, CSP, CPA

The finer details of this episode:

• Importance of communication and storytelling skills for accountants
• Translating technical accounting language into plain English for clients
• Understanding and connecting with clients on a personal level
• Efforts at Oklahoma State University to incorporate communication and client service skills into the accounting curriculum
• Developing communication skills in the classroom
• Tailoring communication to different personality types and communication styles in client interactions
• Significance of non-verbal communication, particularly in virtual environments
• Soft skills and power skills for young accountants
• Principles of improvisation and its relevance to client interactions and teamwork
• Balancing future-oriented thinking with present-focused awareness

Episode resources:

• Summit Virtual CFO by Anders website: https://www.summitcpa.net/
• Email us with questions or if you’d like to be a guest on the show: [email protected]
• We’re hiring! Check out our open positions: https://www.summitcpa.net/career-opportunities
• Connect with Peter here: https://www.linkedin.com/in/petermargaritis/
• Check out The Accidental Accountant here: https://petermargaritis.com/

Timestamps:

The importance of communication and translation (00:00:22)

Discussion on the vital role of accountants in translating technical language for business owners and the need for young accountants to develop communication skills.

Incorporating communication skills in accounting education (00:01:13)

The efforts at Oklahoma State University to include professional development workshops in the accounting curriculum to prepare students for effective communication.

Translating technical language into plain English (00:02:33)

A real-life example illustrating the consequences of failing to communicate technical accounting language to a business owner and the need for accountants to bridge this gap.

Challenges in learning storytelling skills (00:04:35)

The difficulties young accountants face in learning storytelling skills and the importance of understanding and connecting with clients on a personal level.

Starting to learn storytelling skills (00:05:57)

The suggestion to practice explaining accounting tasks to friends and family in simpler terms as a starting point for developing storytelling skills.

Tailoring the message to the audience (00:07:41)

The necessity for accountants to tailor their message to the audience, along with strategies for understanding the language of the person being communicated with.

Resistance to incorporating communication in accounting education (00:10:54)

Discussion on the resistance and challenges faced in integrating communication skills into accounting education at the university level.

Changing perceptions of accounting through storytelling (00:13:54)

The potential impact of changing the way accountants communicate about their profession to high school students to attract more individuals to the accounting field.

Impact of storytelling in changing perceptions about accounting (00:15:18)

How storytelling and sharing personal experiences in accounting can change students' perceptions about the profession and attract them to consider accounting as a career.

Building rapport with clients through language understanding (00:17:54)

The importance of understanding the language and buzzwords of different industries to build rapport with clients and connect with them on a deeper level.

Connecting with clients through personal stories (00:19:29)

The significance of finding a connection with clients through personal stories and interests, and the impact it has on building relationships.

The connection and trust-building in client relationships (00:20:07)

Importance of genuine connection for developing trust with clients, leading to better understanding and communication.

Understanding and adapting to different client personalities (00:20:59)

Discussion on using the DISC personality assessment to understand and adapt to different client personalities for effective communication.

Importance of body language in virtual communication (00:26:20)

Emphasizing the significance of turning on the camera in virtual meetings to convey engagement and avoid misinterpretations.

Flexibility and teamwork in communication (00:28:25)

Recognizing the value of complementary skill sets and adaptability in teamwork and communication.

The impact of attitude and improvisation in daily interactions (00:33:47)

Highlighting the significance of maintaining a positive attitude and being present in daily interactions, drawing parallels with improvisation techniques.

The art of consulting and understanding client needs (00:37:21)

Drawing parallels between improv skills and consulting, emphasizing the importance of understanding and adapting to client needs.

Intentional focus on present space and personal growth (00:38:13)

Recognizing the need for intentional focus on living in the present and improving current circumstances for personal growth.

The importance of preparation (00:39:19)

Discussion on the significance of overpreparing and then improvising in presentations and speeches.

The power of storytelling (00:40:15)

Exploration of Martin Luther King's improvisation during the "I have a dream" speech and the impact of storytelling on evoking emotions.

The art of public speaking (00:42:13)

The importance of overpreparation for public speaking and the ability to pivot and connect with the audience.

The impact of storytelling (00:43:15)

The value of storytelling in aligning emotions with data and making a lasting impression on clients.

The art of storytelling (00:44:30)

Discussion on the art of storytelling, including the need for stories to be true and emotional rather than just factual.

The role of emotions in decision-making (00:45:16)

The influence of emotions on decision-making and the importance of aligning emotions with data in client interactions.

Personal interests and hobbies (00:46:33)

Insight into the personal life and hobbies of Peter, including writing, biking, and stand-up comedy.

Connecting with the audience (00:50:15)

Peter's contact information and a light-hearted exchange about connecting with him outside the show.

“We want to have conversations that are meaningful, that are impactful, and I can guarantee you that we are walking away from these conversations trying to implement these in our organization and our community.” – Ayo Owodunni

The finer details of this episode:

• Importance of inclusive leadership and challenges in embracing diversity, equity, and inclusion (DEI) initiatives
• Business case for DEI and its positive impact on profitability and revenue in companies
• Building trust and connection with diverse team members
• Addressing privilege and mindset shift in viewing people as assets
• Leveraging different perspectives to drive innovation and success
• Importance of fostering inclusive leadership and embracing diversity
• Building trust and rapport in coaching
• Value of emotional intelligence in coaching and leadership
• T-GROW model for coaching conversations
• T-GROW model for setting and achieving goals

Episode resources:

• Summit Virtual CFO by Anders website: https://www.summitcpa.net/
• Email us with questions or if you’d like to be a guest on the show: [email protected]
• We’re hiring! Check out our open positions: https://www.summitcpa.net/career-opportunities
• Connect with Ayo here: https://www.linkedin.com/in/ayoowodunni/
• Check out Ayo here: www.ayoowo.com

Timestamps:

Introduction (00:00:00)

Introducing the podcast and its purpose.

Importance of Inclusive Leadership (00:00:23)

Discussion about the importance of inclusive leadership and the challenges in implementing diversity, equity, and inclusion initiatives.

Challenges in Embracing Diversity and Inclusion (00:01:28)

Exploring the challenges and potential facade in companies' investment in diversity, equity, and inclusion initiatives.

The Need for Tangible Actions (00:02:11)

Emphasizing the importance of real tangible actions in building inclusive communities and infrastructure.

Commitment to Making a Difference (00:03:11)

Expressing the commitment to meaningful and impactful conversations to incite change in the organization and industry.

Leadership and Psychological Safety (00:04:09)

Discussing the importance of psychological safety and leadership at all levels in organizations.

Background of the Guest (00:07:05)

Ayo introduces himself and his expertise in management consulting and inclusive leadership.

Embracing Privilege and Inclusivity (00:10:30)

Encouraging the embrace of privilege and using it for the good of communities and emphasizing the common goals and connections among individuals.

Shifting Mindset on Diversity and Inclusion (00:13:27)

Highlighting the importance of shifting the mindset from considering diversity and inclusion as expenses to viewing them as investments and assets.

Business Case for Diversity and Inclusion (00:14:26)

Presenting business cases and studies that demonstrate the benefits of diversity, equity, and inclusion initiatives in organizations.

Building Trust and Connection (00:19:11)

Strategies for developing relationships, connecting with diverse team members, and fostering trust within the team.

Building Trust and Rapport (00:20:04)

Strategies for building trust and rapport, including asking personal questions and using personality assessments.

Importance of Emotional Intelligence (00:24:57)

Discussion on the importance of emotional intelligence in leadership and business relationships.

Empathy and Cultural Understanding (00:25:20)

The value of empathy and understanding different cultural backgrounds in leadership and management.

Fostering Relationships and Trust (00:27:21)

Anecdotes and insights on the importance of fostering relationships and trust in the workplace, including a story about cultural adaptation.

Continuous Relationship Building (00:32:09)

The need for ongoing and intentional relationship building and fostering trust in coaching and leadership.

Different Types of Coaching (00:36:10)

Exploration of on-the-spot coaching and long-term coaching, and the importance of distinguishing between the two in coaching relationships.

Developing Executive Presence (00:39:33)

Discussion on creating a plan for developing executive presence, including setting goals, identifying realities, exploring options, and planning the way forward.

Application of T-GROW Model in CPA Exam Preparation (00:43:20)

Comparison of using the T-GROW model to break down the CPA exam into manageable chunks for better success and its practical applications beyond coaching.

Personal Goal Setting Using T-GROW Model (00:44:13)

Exploration of using the T-GROW model for personal goal setting and self-coaching, emphasizing the importance of a growth mindset and accountability.

The Power of Asking the Right Questions (00:46:06)

Importance of asking the right questions as a coach, fostering collaboration, and empowering individuals to think and come up with their own ideas.

Practical Applications of T-GROW Model (00:47:02)

The effectiveness of coaching through asking questions and helping individuals own their ideas, with practical examples from coaching experiences.

Community Engagement and Personal Interests (00:50:48)

Ayo's involvement in connecting with the community, exploring diverse activities, and personal interests in reading and writing.

Book Recommendation and Leadership Insights (00:52:24)

Ayo's current reading, "Leading" by George B. Cuff, and its relevance to leadership, emphasizing the importance of asking quality questions.

Connect with Io (00:53:38)

Ayo's contact information for connecting on LinkedIn, Instagram, or visiting the website.

Closing Remarks (00:54:18)

Thanking Ayo for the insightful discussion and expressing interest in future webinars, followed by a brief advertisement for career opportunities.

"My vision is to have a boutique crypto accounting and tax firm. I want to be the premier crypto accounting firm in the U.S., maybe in the world." – Mackenzie Patel

The finer details of this episode:

• Bold career decisions and experiences in the accounting industry
• Mackenzie Patel's focus on cryptocurrency and AI in her accounting firm, Hash Basis
• Mackenzie's journey from considering a career in Big 4 accounting firms to finding her niche in the industry
• Transition to focusing on cryptocurrency and AI in her accounting firm
• Mackenzie's passion for the technical aspects of accounting and her excitement about the intellectual challenges presented by the crypto industry
• Challenges and opportunities presented by the volatility of cryptocurrencies
• Challenges of hiring for her accounting firm, particularly for the role of a senior crypto accountant

Episode resources:

• Summit Virtual CFO by Anders website: https://www.summitcpa.net/
• Email us with questions or if you’d like to be a guest on the show: [email protected]
• We’re hiring! Check out our open positions: https://www.summitcpa.net/career-opportunities
• Connect with Mackenzie here: https://www.linkedin.com/in/mackenziepatel/
• Check out Hash Basis here: https://www.hashbasis.xyz/

Timestamps:

Bold Career Decisions (00:00:23)

Hosts and guest share their boldest career decisions, including leaving the accounting industry and making a significant life change.

Transitioning Careers (00:04:09)

Joey discusses transitioning from accounting to insurance and then back to accounting, highlighting the challenges and successes of the journey.

Mackenzie Patel's Bold Leaps (00:05:49)

The hosts admire Mackenzie Patel's bold career decisions and discuss her passion for cryptocurrency and AI, inspiring others.

Early Career Challenges (00:09:26)

Mackenzie Patel shares her early career experience, including her decision to move away from the traditional path of working in a big four firm.

Discovering Career Preferences (00:12:52)

Mackenzie Patel reflects on her internships and how she realized that audit was not the right fit for her, leading her to find a better-suited role at Honeywell.

Cryptocurrency and AI Focus (00:16:07)

The hosts inquire about Mackenzie Patel's decision to focus on cryptocurrency and AI in her accounting firm, Hash Basis, and the excitement and challenges within this space.

The journey into crypto (00:16:43)

Mackenzie's transition from corporate accounting to crypto, and her passion for the industry.

Passion for accounting and crypto (00:18:09)

Mackenzie's enthusiasm for accounting and her deep dive into the crypto world.

Entrepreneurial leap into crypto accounting (00:21:33)

Mackenzie's decision to start her own crypto accounting firm and the influence of her family background.

Challenges and joys of crypto accounting (00:24:37)

The unique challenges and joys of working in the emerging field of crypto accounting.

The future of crypto and stability (00:27:56)

The potential for stability in cryptocurrency and its future as a medium of exchange.

Vision for the firm (00:30:11)

Mackenzie's vision for her boutique crypto accounting and tax firm, emphasizing a personal and end-to-end service approach.

Setting Boundaries and Family Planning (00:32:53)

Discussion about setting boundaries and planning for family while managing career growth.

Challenges of Hiring and Culture Building (00:33:25)

Mackenzie's process of hiring and the challenges faced in finding the right fit for her firm's culture.

Importance of Personality Quirks in Hiring (00:34:13)

Mackenzie's approach to hiring, focusing on understanding the essence of the person through candid conversations.

Revolutionary Business Services and Early Hires (00:35:46)

Comparison of Mackenzie's hiring challenges with the experiences of the hosts' bosses when they started their firm.

Self-awareness and Compatibility in Hiring (00:37:03)

The importance of self-awareness and compatibility in the hiring process, likened to dating.

Formatting Quirks and Attention to Detail (00:37:23)

Discussion about the importance of formatting quirks and attention to detail in the workplace.

Generational Divide: One Space or Two? (00:40:05)

Conversation about the generational divide in typing spaces and the history behind it.

Marriage Advice and Communication (00:45:46)

Advice on understanding weaknesses and communication styles in a marriage, including love languages.

Untraditional Wedding and Making Decisions for Yourself (00:48:48)

The importance of making wedding decisions for oneself and not solely to please others.

Marriage and Communication (00:49:56)

Discussion about wedding experiences and the importance of communication in relationships.

Trash TV Shows (00:51:25)

Conversation about favorite trash TV shows, including "The Bachelor," "The Bachelorette," and teen rom-coms.

Television Preferences (00:52:51)

Mackenzie's preference for anime and teen rom-coms, Joey's eclectic TV tastes, and his favorite show "The OC."

Connecting with Mackenzie (00:56:11)

Mackenzie shares her website and LinkedIn profile for listeners to connect with her.

Closing Remarks (00:56:47)

The hosts thank Mackenzie for joining the show and share information about career opportunities for young CPAs.

“When it comes to mentoring, it takes a big-picture approach to understand that you're just learning and gaining that expertise. You're being mentored to climb the ladder. You're being pulled up and building that expertise, but you're also pulling people with you. During that time, it doesn't mean that you don't know anything. You're able to pay forward the expertise that you have. 

For example, if you only have four years of experience in accounting, you have many years' worth of experience to learn.But you are four years ahead of a 22-year-old just getting out of college. And trust me, that 22-year-old is going to think the person with four years of experience is an amazing genius.It’s just four yearsof professional experience, but it can provide tons of value to the college entry-level grad.” – Karl Baker

The finer details of this episode:

• Challenges and compliance-oriented nature of public accounting
• Importance of understanding the industry before pursuing a career in accounting
• Significance of mentorship and seeking guidance in one's career
• Embracing challenges and learning from difficult experiences
• Delayed gratification in careers, particularly in the accounting field
• Impact of experienced professionals in guiding and supporting younger professionals
• Cultivating an "owner mentality" in staff members and the role of leadership

Episode resources:

• Summit Virtual CFO by Anders website: https://www.summitcpa.net/
• Email us with questions or if you’d like to be a guest on the show: [email protected]
• We’re hiring! Check out our open positions: https://www.summitcpa.net/career-opportunities
• Connect with Karl here: https://www.linkedin.com/in/karl-baker-b703a54/
• Check out Baker CFO Advisory, LLC here: https://www.bakercfoadvisory.com/

Timestamps:

Looking back (00:00:23)

Reflections on past decisions and the concept of "do-overs" in life and career.

Career regrets (00:01:00)

Hannah shares regrets about prioritizing her husband's career over her own and leaving a job in her 20s.

Joey's career decision (00:03:31)

Joey reflects on his career decisions and the impact of leaving a job in his mid-20s.

Advice from a flight (00:04:21)

Joey shares advice he received on a flight and reflects on his career decisions.

Karl's public accounting experience (00:11:17)

Karl Baker shares his experience in public accounting and the challenges he faced.

Shift in public accounting (00:15:17)

Discussion on the need for improvement and a shift in the public accounting industry's culture and tone at the top.

Tax planning experience (00:17:30)

Joey shares a challenging experience with tax planning that led to his decision to move away from public accounting.

Understanding the Value of Experience (00:19:13)

Discussion on the importance of gaining experience and understanding the value of different career paths in accounting.

Real-world Problem Solving in Public Accounting (00:20:28)

Experience and skills gained from dealing with real, challenging accounting issues in public accounting.

Embracing the Challenges and Learning from Them (00:23:30)

Embracing difficult situations and learning from them, leading to personal and professional growth.

Gaining Expertise and Sharing Knowledge (00:27:06)

The journey of gaining expertise and the value of sharing knowledge and expertise with others.

Delayed Gratification and Building Expertise (00:27:19)

Understanding the value of delayed gratification in building expertise and the importance of learning in the early years of a career.

Mentorship and Leadership (00:29:39)

The significance of mentorship and leadership in career development, with a focus on the impact of mentors and leaders.

Learning to Ask Questions and Humility (00:32:53)

The importance of asking questions, humility, and learning from experiences in the early stages of a career.

Developing an Ownership Mentality (00:37:00)

The importance of nurturing an ownership mentality in staff and providing a path for future growth and leadership.

Client Presentation Experience (00:39:27)

Karl's unexpected client presentation experience, leadership demonstration, and the lesson of being prepared.

Career Path Conversations (00:42:35)

Hannah's regret about not having career path conversations earlier and the importance of self-advocacy.

Leadership Encouragement (00:43:52)

Encouragement for listeners to have career advancement conversations and the significance of trust and self-advocacy.

Transparency and Trust (00:46:36)

The importance of transparency in leadership decisions and building trust for mutual benefit.

Self-Advocacy and Career Evolution (00:48:40)

Karl's experience of self-advocacy, the trust between individuals and firms, and the evolution of a career.

Professional and Personal Interests (00:51:15)

Karl's transition to a financing advisor, his work-life balance, and personal interests in golf, reading, and coffee.

Coffee Enthusiasts (00:53:11)

Discussion about the mocha pot and the integration of accountants and coffee lovers.

Contact Information (00:54:38)

Karl's contact information and his real estate investing podcast.