Who's Really the BOSS?

By Marcus Dillon, Rachel DillonBusiness

Who's Really the BOSS? episodes

October 21, 2024The Power of Community
Ben Gabriel joins Rachel and Marcus to discuss the transformative power of peer groups and advisory services for accounting firm owners. They explore how these communities provide a safe space for leaders to share challenges, celebrate successes, and gain valuable insights from others facing similar situations. The conversation delves into common issues like capacity planning and team management, highlighting how collaboration and accountability can drive personal and professional growth in the accounting industry.
Introducing Collective by DBA
https://collective.cpa
https://www.linkedin.com/company/collectivebydba
Learn More About Dillon Business Advisors
https://www.dillonadvisors.com
https://www.linkedin.com/company/dillonbusinessadvisors
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(00:00) - Welcome to Who's Really the Boss?
(01:45) - Ben Gabriel Joins the Show
(07:18) - Grandmother's Wisdom: Best Advice Ever Received
(11:15) - Working with Ben: Past and Present Collaborations
(13:20) - The Power of Mastermind Groups and Peer Support
(18:53) - Reflecting on Successes and Challenges
(23:04) - The Importance of Safe Spaces for Idea Sharing
(26:09) - The Power of Peer Support
(29:33) - Recent Challenges Brought Up in Peer Groups
(33:09) - Defining Personal and Professional Goals
(38:25) - The Importance of Community and Accountability
(43:53) - Sharing and Growing in Groups
(52:26) - Connecting with Your Group
55 min
October 07, 2024Beyond the Billable Hour
Rachel and Marcus dive deep into their firm's evolution of time tracking and practice management, from old-school stamps to modern software solutions. Despite moving beyond billable hour pricing, they discuss how they leverage time data for capacity planning, pricing decisions, and firm valuation, Rachel and Marcus offer practical insights on implementing and refining time tracking processes, balancing efficiency with data-driven decision making in a virtual environment.
Introducing Collective by DBA
https://collective.cpa
https://www.linkedin.com/company/collectivebydba
For more information about GRIP, visit: https://collective.cpa/grip
Learn More About Dillon Business Advisors
https://www.dillonadvisors.com
https://www.linkedin.com/company/dillonbusinessadvisors
Sign up to get free CPE for listening to this podcast
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Download the Earmark CPE App
Apple: https://apps.apple.com/us/app/earmark-cpe/id1562599728
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(00:00) - Welcome to Who's Really the Boss
(02:35) - Family Updates
(07:08) - Beyond the Billable Hour
(08:48) - Importance of Tracking Time
(12:45) - Capacity Planning and Efficiency
(23:20) - Increasing Capacity
(26:10) - Team Structure and Specialization
(28:03) - Software Evolution in DBA
(32:30) - Invoicing Practices and Client Management
(41:53) - Balancing Technology and Manual Processes
(51:36) - Optimizing Team Capacity and Efficiency
(55:09) - The Value of Excess Capacity in M&A
(56:47) - Conclusion and Final Thoughts
58 min
September 23, 2024Beyond EOS: Tailoring Systems for Accounting Success
This episode explores the intersection of popular business operating systems like EOS (Entrepreneurial Operating System) and tailored solutions for accounting firms. Christine Nietzke, ODCP shares insights on the benefits and limitations of EOS implementation, while introducing the GRIP (Goal Ready Implementation Plan) approach developed by Collective by DBA. The conversation highlights the value of having a comprehensive blueprint for firm success, emphasizing the role of discipline, organization, and team effort in achieving business goals.
Introducing Collective by DBA
https://collective.cpa
https://www.linkedin.com/company/collectivebydba
For more information about GRIP, visit: https://collective.cpa/grip
Learn More About Dillon Business Advisors
https://www.dillonadvisors.com
https://www.linkedin.com/company/dillonbusinessadvisors
Sign up to get free CPE for listening to this podcast
https://earmarkcpe.com
Download the Earmark CPE App
Apple: https://apps.apple.com/us/app/earmark-cpe/id1562599728
Android: https://play.google.com/store/apps/details?id=com.earmarkcpe.app
(00:00) - Welcome to Who's Really The BOSS?
(01:01) - Christine's Career Journey
(04:24) - Christine's Role and Contributions
(07:07) - Best Advice Ever Given
(08:28) - Deep Dive into EOS
(14:33) - Becoming an EOS Implementer
(20:17) - Challenges and Client Stories
(25:40) - The Importance of Structured Meetings
(27:45) - Maximizing Existing Tools for Efficiency
(33:13) - Introducing GRIP: A Blueprint for Success
(38:50) - Team Collaboration and Accountability
(49:36) - The Role of Discipline and Organization
(51:58) - Conclusion and Final Thoughts
53 min
September 09, 2024Collective by DBA
Marcus and Rachel introduce Collective by DBA, the evolution of their accounting firm support initiative. They discuss the motivation behind creating this community, its focus on strategy, structure, and systems for firms of similar sizes, and the unique events and resources offered. They emphasize Collective's commitment to fostering meaningful connections and driving lasting change in the accounting industry through peer support and expert guidance.
Introducing Collective by DBA
https://collective.cpa/
Learn More About Dillon Business Advisors
https://www.dillonadvisors.com
https://www.linkedin.com/company/dillonbusinessadvisors
Sign up to get free CPE for listening to this podcast
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Download the Earmark CPE App
Apple: https://apps.apple.com/us/app/earmark-cpe/id1562599728
Android: https://play.google.com/store/apps/details?id=com.earmarkcpe.app
(00:00) - Welcome to Who's Really the Boss
(00:40) - Exciting Changes at DBA Firm
(01:27) - Rebranding to Collective by DBA
(05:05) - Creating a Supportive Community
(09:14) - New Offerings and Features
(19:23) - Strategy, Structure, and Systems
(29:15) - Upcoming Fall Get-Together
(31:04) - Event Highlights and Key Takeaways
(40:06) - Mission and Values of Collective
(46:12) - Learn More and How to Contact Us
49 min
August 26, 2024Inside the CFO Advisory Meeting: Real Client Stories
Rachel and Marcus provide an in-depth look at the intricacies of CFO advisory meetings, using real-world examples from a marketing agency and a dental practice. Marcus breaks down the meeting structure, from initial connection to financial analysis and strategic planning, while emphasizing the importance of adapting to each client's unique needs. This episode offers valuable insights for financial professionals looking to enhance their advisory services and strengthen client relationships.
Learn More About Dillon Business Advisors
https://www.dillonadvisors.com
https://collective.cpa/
https://www.linkedin.com/company/dillonbusinessadvisors
Sign up to get free CPE for listening to this podcast

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(00:00) - Welcome to Who's Really The Boss
(01:15) - Storytelling Focus and Client Meeting Agenda
(02:07) - Client CFO Meetings and Their Structure
(04:05) - Understanding Client Value and Budget Allocation
(06:44) - Developing Meeting Agendas and Client Interactions
(09:24) - Monthly and Quarterly Client Meetings
(14:10) - Case Study: Marketing Agency Client
(25:08) - Recommendations
(27:29) - Action Steps
(32:35) - Insights from a Dental Client
(35:09) - Quarterly Client Touchpoints
(37:20) - Action Plans and Financial Analysis
(51:04) - Advisory Meetings for New Clients
(56:14) - Final Thoughts
58 min
August 12, 2024Unlocking Value in Accounting Conferences and Professional Growth
Rachel and Marcus offer a comprehensive look at how accounting professionals can make the most of conferences and other learning opportunities. They share insights on navigating large events, creating focused learning experiences, and implementing new knowledge effectively. They cover topics such as team preferences for training, strategies for networking, and tips for turning conference insights into actionable steps.
Learn More About Dillon Business Advisors
https://www.dillonadvisors.com
https://www.linkedin.com/company/dillonbusinessadvisors
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(00:00) - Welcome to Who's Really the Boss Podcast
(02:27) - Navigating Conference Overload
(04:12) - Implementing Ideas Amidst Overwhelm
(05:08) - Maximizing Conference Experiences
(11:29) - The Value of Networking at Conferences
(15:25) - Creating Intimate and Impactful Events
(21:33) - How We Use Exclusivity
(25:06) - Strategy for Accounting Firms
(30:01) - How to Structure Your Business
(31:21) - Optimizing Systems and Software
(35:08) - Balancing Vendor Relationships and Learning from Peers
(42:27) - Effective Conference Participation and Team Development
(51:02) - Maximizing Conference ROI and Accountability
(55:53) - Upcoming Events and Final Thoughts
58 min
July 29, 2024Sun, Sand, and Strategy
In this episode, Marcus and Rachel discuss their recent team retreat to Florida, sharing insights on planning a successful getaway for a virtual firm. They dive into the logistics of organizing a destination retreat and the benefits of bringing team members and their spouses together in person. They also reveal how they used this opportunity to roll out new bonus structures and leadership opportunities, demonstrating how combining business strategy with team bonding can lead to innovative ideas and stronger company culture.
Learn More About Dillon Business Advisors
https://www.dillonadvisors.com
https://www.linkedin.com/company/dillonbusinessadvisors
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(00:00) - Welcome to Who's Really the Boss
(01:07) - Purpose and Importance of Team Retreats
(02:52) - Travel Logistics and Considerations
(04:28) - Choosing the Right Destination
(09:29) - Highlights and Benefits of the Retreat
(13:04) - Team Bonding and Culture
(17:59) - First Night and Setting the Tone
(24:03) - Hotels vs Rental Homes
(26:16) - Team Meeting and Goals Review
(32:17) - Evaluating the Old Bonus System & Introducing New One
(40:36) - Optimist-Pessimist Activity
(45:15) - Leadership Opportunities and Career Advancement
(47:04) - Onboarding and Efficiency Incentives
(56:09) - Retreat Highlights and Team Bonding
(01:02:21) - Future Retreat Plans and Budgeting
1 hr 5 min
July 15, 2024Marketing Essentials for Accountants
In this episode, Rachel and Marcus dive into the fundamental building blocks of marketing for accounting firms. They discuss how to identify your ideal client, create tailored service packages, and effectively communicate your value proposition. The conversation covers practical tips for managing inbound leads, leveraging your website as a virtual storefront, and utilizing automation tools to streamline your marketing efforts. This episode provides a solid foundation for accountants looking to refine their marketing strategy and attract their target clients.
Learn More About Dillon Business Advisors
https://www.dillonadvisors.com
https://www.linkedin.com/company/dillonbusinessadvisors
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(00:00) - Introduction to the Podcast and Today's Theme
(00:34) - Marketing and Advertising Strategies
(04:39) - Understanding Your Ideal Client
(10:02) - How We Decided Our Ideal Client
(17:57) - Targeting and Attracting Ideal Clients
(26:00) - Building a Team and Defining Business Voice
(29:52) - Inbound vs. Outbound Sales
(30:41) - Handling Inbound Calls Effectively
(32:07) - The Importance of Knowing Your Ideal Client
(34:13) - Why Owners Shouldn't Handle All Calls
(39:33) - Streamlining Email Communication
(42:37) - The Role of a Good Website
(43:22) - Utilizing CRM and Automation Tools
(48:48) - Consolidating Marketing Tools
(51:55) - Final Thoughts and Best Practices
54 min
July 01, 2024Handling Price Increases
In this episode, Rachel and Marcus discuss their experience implementing price increases at DBA in 2024. They share their strategy of presenting clients with updated pricing based on new service packages, while offering loyalty discounts to ease the transition. Despite some client churn, DBA ultimately increased monthly recurring revenue by over $6,000 while serving 15 fewer clients, freeing up capacity for their team. Rachel and Marcus break down the numbers and share valuable lessons for other firm owners considering price increases.
Learn More About Dillon Business Advisors
https://www.dillonadvisors.com
https://www.linkedin.com/company/dillonbusinessadvisors
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(00:00) - Welcome to Who's Really The Boss Podcast
(00:34) - Family Updates and Summer Jobs
(03:34) - Price Increases for Client Accounting Services
(04:33) - Evergreen Engagement Letters Explained
(06:39) - Implementing Price Increases
(09:54) - Client Reactions and Feedback
(11:44) - Adjusting Service Offerings and Pricing
(23:49) - Final Thoughts on Price Increases
(31:25) - Analyzing April 1st Metrics
(32:14) - Client Churn and Acceptance Rates
(33:56) - AIM Service Line Adjustments
(39:55) - June 1st Metrics and Client Transitions
(43:28) - Strategies for Managing Client Capacity
(54:48) - Final Thoughts and Future Plans
1 hr 1 min
June 17, 2024Introducing DBA Firm: Operational Support for Accounting Firms
In this episode, Marcus and Rachel dive into the details of DBA Firm, a new venture aimed at providing operational support to accounting firms with revenues between $500k-$5M and 3-30 employees. They discuss the origins of DBA Firm, the key pillars of structure, strategy, and software, and how their own experiences transforming their accounting practice inspired them to help other firm owners. Learn about the resources, events, and support DBA Firm offers to help small-to-mid-sized accounting firms improve and grow.
Learn More About Dillon Business Advisors
https://www.dillonadvisors.com
https://www.linkedin.com/company/dillonbusinessadvisors
Sign up to get free CPE for listening to this podcast

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(00:00) - Welcome to Who's Really The Boss?
(00:53) - Family Updates: Avery's Journey
(02:30) - Avery's College Decision
(03:39) - Impact on Family Dynamics
(07:17) - Transition to DBA Firm Discussion
(08:10) - Origins of the Podcast
(09:46) - Transforming DBA: From Tax to Advisory
(10:44) - Supporting the Accounting Community
(16:20) - What is DBA?
(21:38) - DBA Firm Resources and Events
(32:32) - Introducing GRIP: Goal Ready Implementation Plan
(45:55) - Conclusion and Future Plans
48 min

About Who's Really the BOSS?

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"Who's Really the BOSS?" highlights the joys and challenges of running a CPA firm with your spouse or family. From hiring and terminating to improving capacity, cash flow, and culture, our…