W.T.F (We're Trying to Figure-out) with Saul | MY-CPE📚

W.T.F (We're Trying to Figure-out) with Saul | MY-CPE📚

By Saul Sony, CPAEducation
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W.T.F (We're Trying to Figure-out) with Saul | MY-CPE📚 episodes

  • Figuring Out: Scaling Modern Tax Advisory Firms | Podcast #EP39

    Learning Objectives

    • Identify challenges firms face when transitioning from compliance to advisory models.
    • Explain mindset shifts needed in pricing, communication, and service delivery.
    • Analyze how automation and AI impact strategic advisory and client experience.
    • Evaluate how to scale firm infrastructure, operations, and team-based delivery.
    • Apply best practices in tech adoption, workflow design, and culture development.
    • Recognize key features of a modern, client-centric and future-ready tax practice.

    Welcome to another eye-opening episode of W.T.F. with Saul! This time, Saul sits down with David Snider—founder, advisor, and forward-thinking tax pro—to unpack why traditional tax practices are falling apart. With automation on the rise and clients demanding more strategic guidance, firms stuck in compliance mode are being left behind. So, what does it really take to build a future-ready tax firm? David brings decades of insight, humour, and real-world advice to help us answer exactly that.

    In this jam-packed CPE episode, we go beyond the buzzwords to examine what a modern tax practice looks like—one built on intentional strategy, scalable infrastructure, and human-first culture. David shares how firms can shift from founder-led to team-enabled models, rethink pricing for value, and adopt technology without falling into the “shiny object” trap. We also explore the difference between tools that support thinking and those that replace it, and how automation fits into truly strategic client service.

    1 hr 11 min
  • Figuring Out: Leading with Empathy in Hiring | Podcast #EP38

    Learning Objectives

    • Discuss outdated hiring practices affecting workplace inclusivity.
    • Identify emotional intelligence traits during interview processes.
    • Explain the impact of recognition on employee retention.
    • Explore strategies to foster psychological safety at work.
    • Differentiate transferable skills from job-specific requirements.

    Welcome to another exciting Episode of W.T.F. with Saul! In this Episode, Saul sits down with Dana Neiger to explore a deeply relevant topic: how healing, empathy, and purposeful hiring can transform the modern workplace. What does it truly mean to lead with emotional intelligence? Why are traditional hiring methods failing to recognize potential beyond the résumé?

    This conversation dives into the human side of leadership, revealing how mental health awareness, active listening, and value-based recruitment can drive performance and retention. Drawing on Dana’s experience with Hive Talent and her leadership memoir Before I Knew it, They Were Gone, this Episode brings attention to the outdated systems still prevalent in today’s hiring culture. You'll explore why reading between the lines, recognizing transferable skills, and embracing a people-first mindset aren’t just “nice-to-haves”—they’re business imperatives. Learn why Gen Z is demanding more transparency and how employers can build trust through recognition, inclusion, and psychological safety.

    Major Topics:

    • Empathy In Leadership
    • Purposeful Hiring Practices
    • Inclusive Company Culture
    • Psychological Safety Essentials
    • Retention Beyond Compensation

    This isn’t just theory—it’s a transformational blueprint. By the end of this CPE Episode, you’ll be equipped to bring humanity back to hiring and culture-building. Join us to challenge the norms and lead with intention.

    52 min
  • Figuring Out: Brand Love & Consumer Loyalty | Podcast #EP37

    Learning Objectives

    • Distinguish brand love from behavioral loyalty using real-world examples.
    • Identify the three psychological pillars behind emotional brand attachment.
    • Evaluate the role of brand personification in marketing strategy.
    • Analyze how AI can enhance or manipulate consumer-brand relationships.
    • Apply brand love frameworks to service-based and product-based industries.

    Welcome to another exciting Episode of W.T.F. with Saul! This Episode features a fascinating conversation between Saul and Dr. Aaron Ahuvia, a pioneering researcher and author who has spent decades studying why people love products the way they love other people. In today’s hypercompetitive marketplace, customer loyalty is no longer just about repeat purchases—it’s about creating emotional connections.

    This engaging CPE Episode explores the powerful concept of Brand Love and how it reshapes the way consumers interact with brands. The Episode dives into the psychology of brand love, drawing on evolutionary biology, cognitive science, and marketing research to uncover the three core ingredients that foster emotional bonds: exceptional quality, memorable customer experience, and brand personification. Participants will learn how modern consumers integrate products into their identities and how this relationship is formed, sustained, and deepened over time.

    Major Topics:

    • Emotional Consumer Engagement
    • Quality vs. Perceived Value
    • Brand Personification Strategy
    • AI and Consumer Identity
    • Future of Emotional Branding

    Join this CPE Episode as we explore the future of brand love in a digital age. As artificial intelligence and digital assistants become more human-like, we also examine the ethical and practical implications of AI-driven customer experiences. How can marketers use virtual agents and avatars to build brand affinity without losing trust?

    47 min
  • Figuring Out: The Future of Remote Accounting | Podcast #EP36

    Learning Objectives

    • Identify challenges and strategies in transitioning to a virtual firm model.
    • Explain the leadership adaptations required for managing remote teams.
    • Describe the role of intentional culture-building in distributed firms.
    • Analyze the benefits of professional communities in firm development.
    • Evaluate the impact of AI and generational diversity on accounting firms.

    Welcome to another exciting Episode of W.T.F. with Saul!  In a rapidly evolving accounting landscape, few voices resonate with foresight and clarity like Jason Blumer, CEO of Blumer CPAs and founder of the pioneering Thriveal CPA Network.

    In this CPE Episode, Jason sits down with Saul to unpack the journey from a traditional brick-and-mortar firm to becoming one of the earliest adopters of a fully virtual accounting model—long before it became mainstream. This Episode dives deep into team dynamics, technology transitions, and the intentional culture-building required in a remote environment. Listeners will hear firsthand how leadership in a virtual firm demands a radical rethink—not just of operations, but of mindset. Jason emphasizes that digital transformation is not just about tools, but about re-engineering workflows, recognizing individual work preferences, and prioritizing psychological safety. The conversation also explores how multigenerational teams and AI adoption are reshaping accounting leadership.

    51 min
  • Figuring Out: Accounting Firms & the New Sales Era | Podcast #EP35

    Learning Objectives

    • Discuss why sales and business development are evolving in accounting.
    • Identify key strategies for building a firm-wide BD culture.
    • Differentiate between traditional and modern rainmaker mindsets.
    • Analyze common mistakes firms make when developing rainmakers.
    • Explain how to train accountants in value-based selling.

    Welcome to another exciting Episode of W.T.F. with Saul, sitting with Sarah Dobek—an expert in accounting firm growth strategy. Business development is no longer confined to the C-suite. Today’s firms are seeing a shift where every accountant, from entry-level to senior manager, is expected to contribute to client engagement and growth. But how can we redefine “sales” in a way that feels authentic, not awkward?

    In this engaging conversation, Saul and Sarah dive into how to empower accountants to embrace business development as a natural extension of their role. They explore how to move away from hard selling and into value-based client conversations, building confidence and purpose along the way. From mindset shifts to strategic mentoring, this episode lays out a clear path for transforming firm culture and developing modern rainmakers who don’t just chase leads—they create lasting value.

    Major Topics:

    • Redefining Business Development
    • Value-Driven Sales Approach
    • Creating Growth Mindsets
    • Rainmaker Skill Building
    • Culture Change Strategies

    Whether you're a firm leader or an aspiring rainmaker, this CPE episode will help you reimagine growth from the ground up. Join us and discover how to build a growth culture that sticks.

    46 min
  • Figuring Out: Creative Problem Solving in Accounting | Podcast #EP34

    Learning Objectives

    • Describe creative thinking techniques in an accounting or finance role.
    • Identify how cross-industry experience enhances professional decision-making.
    • Compare traditional and innovative approaches to problem-solving in finance.
    • Evaluate how relocation and adaptation affect long-term career growth.
    • Explain the role of strategic risk-taking in leadership development.

    Welcome to another exciting Episode of W.T.F. with Saul! In this Episode Saul sits down with Mike Manalac —a finance leader who’s worn many hats across the accounting spectrum—to unpack how creativity fuels success in traditional fields like accounting. From public accounting internships to roles at PwC, Walmart, and Google, Mike’s story demonstrates how breaking the mold can lead to impactful innovation.

    Listeners will hear first-hand about Mike’s transitions between industries, regions, and responsibilities. He reflects on how critical thinking, adaptability, and creative solutions helped him thrive in fast-moving environments like e-commerce and digital advertising. The Episode offers real-world applications of creative problem-solving—often overlooked in the accounting profession. This Episode is perfect for professionals looking to expand their mindset and value within their roles. Through personal anecdotes and strategic insights, this episode bridges the gap between accounting fundamentals and forward-thinking strategies.

    Key Topics:

    • Creative decision frameworks
    • Career pivots in accounting
    • Cross-functional finance strategy
    • Audit vs. industry insights
    • Leadership in innovation

    Join this CPE Episode to explore how creative thinking can transform your accounting career. Gain fresh insights and practical strategies to lead with innovation and purpose.

    57 min
  • Figuring Out: Top AI Tools for CPA Thought Leaders | Podcast #EP33

    Learning Objectives

    • Discuss why CPAs should prioritize content creation for personal branding.
    • Explore how AI can support content creation without replacing human insight.
    • Identify effective content strategies to attract ideal accounting clients.
    • Analyze common mistakes in outsourced marketing and how to avoid them.
    • Explain a simple framework to consistently create valuable, engaging content.

    Welcome to another exciting Episode of W.T.F. with Saul! The marketing game has changed—and CPAs don’t need flashy agencies or endless budgets to grow their personal brands. Instead, they can take control of their content strategy—with the help of AI.

    In this CPE Episode of W.T.F. with Saul, we sit down with Matt Banker, a marketing strategist who specializes in helping CPAs grow through digital marketing, to discuss why thought leadership is the key to modern accounting firm success and how accountants can use AI to create powerful content without outsourcing their thinking. We’ll break down why clarity beats clever marketing tricks, how accountants can consistently create valuable content, and how to leverage AI without losing authenticity. We’ll break down why clarity beats clever marketing tricks, how accountants can consistently create valuable content, and how to leverage AI without losing authenticity.

    Key Topics:

    • Own Your Content Voice
    • AI Enhances Human Insight
    • Content That Drives Growth
    • Build Personal Brand Authority
    • Sustainable Content Creation Framework

    In this CPE Episode, we’ll explore how CPAs can confidently create client-attracting content, build their authority online, and implement a simple, repeatable strategy that works—without needing a marketing agency or sacrificing their time.

    54 min
  • Figuring Out: Navigating the New Era of Tax Compliance | Podcast #EP32

    Learning Objectives

    • Identify key regulatory changes impacting businesses today.
    • Analyze how AI and automation are transforming tax compliance and fraud detection.
    • Discuss common tax compliance mistakes and strategies to avoid them.
    • Explain the importance of real-time tax reporting and digital transformation.
    • Explore the future of tax compliance, including emerging global trends.

    Tax compliance is no longer just a once-a-year concern—it’s a daily business function. With governments shifting to real-time reporting and AI-driven enforcement, businesses must stay ahead to avoid penalties and audits. Are you ready for these changes?

    Welcome to another Episode of W.T.F. with Saul; we sit down with Wendy Walker, VP of Regulatory Affairs at Sovos, to break down the latest tax compliance trends. From digital transformation to global regulations, we’ll explore how businesses can adapt, minimize risks, and leverage technology to streamline compliance.

    This Episode explores major tax reforms, the rise of AI in fraud detection, and the most common compliance errors that businesses often encounter. Wendy shares expert insights on how companies can navigate new tax laws, automate compliance, and prepare for the next wave of global tax regulations. Whether you're a finance leader, business owner, or compliance expert, you’ll walk away with actionable strategies to strengthen your tax compliance approach and stay ahead in this rapidly changing landscape.

    Key Topics:

    • Key Regulatory Changes – What’s new in tax laws and compliance policies?
    • Digital Tax Compliance – Real-time reporting and automation trends.
    • AI & Automation Tools – How tech is revolutionizing tax compliance.
    • Common Tax Pitfalls – Mistakes that can trigger audits and penalties.
    • Future of Compliance – What’s next in the global tax landscape?

    By the end of this CE podcast, we will discuss the essential tools, strategies, and insights businesses need to navigate evolving tax regulations, leverage AI-driven compliance solutions, and avoid costly mistakes. Stay informed, stay compliant, and stay ahead in the ever-changing world of business tax.

    56 min
  • Figuring Out: The 4 Pillars of High-Performing Teams | Podcast #EP31

    What if the secret to a high-performing team isn’t just about talent or strategy? It’s about creating a culture that sticks—one that engages, inspires, and motivates team members to perform at their best.

    Welcome to another Episode of W.T.F. with Saul, where Sean Glaze, teamwork expert and speaker, explores how organizations can build Sticky Cultures that keep employees engaged, accountable, and inspired.  Are you ready to elevate your team’s performance and engagement? Let’s explore the four pillars of a successful, sustainable culture.

    By focusing on teammates, coachability, leadership, and culture, this course will teach you how to build a team that excels in every area. We’ll discuss the common pitfalls organizations fall into when building culture and engagement and provide actionable steps to overcome them. Through practical strategies, you’ll be able to boost communication, trust, and accountability within your team, ensuring long-term success. It’s not about simply having great talent—it’s about creating an environment where that talent can thrive.

    Key Topics:

    • Building Winning Teams Together
    • Fostering Coachability and Feedback
    • Developing Leadership at Every Level
    • Creating a Culture of Accountability
    • Driving Long-Term Team Engagement

    By the end of this CPE podcast, we will talk about the tools to transform your team’s culture into one that sticks. Join us and take the first step toward creating a high-performing team that thrives in today’s competitive world.

    58 min
  • Figuring Out: How Fractional Shares Shape Investing | Podcast #EP30

    Welcome to another exciting Episode of W.T.F. with Saul! In this Episode, we dive into the world of fractional shares, a revolutionary investment tool that’s making the stock market more accessible than ever before. Once reserved for the wealthy, investing in high-priced stocks is now within reach for everyday individuals. But how do fractional shares work? What are their benefits and risks? Get ready to explore this game-changing topic that could reshape your investment strategy.

    Joining us today is Miranda Marquit, a renowned Financial Wellness Expert with years of experience in personal finance. Miranda will break down the concept of fractional shares, offering clear insights into how they’re transforming the investing landscape. She’ll also shed light on their role in stock splits, dividend reinvestment plans (DRIPs), and mergers and how fractional shares fit into a broader financial strategy, especially for new investors. This conversation will give you the tools to navigate the modern investment world with confidence.

    Key Topics:

    • Introduction to Fractional Shares
    • Stock Splits and Reverse Splits
    • Dividend Reinvestment Plans (DRIPs)
    • Market Accessibility and Volatility
    • Regulatory Challenges in Investing

    In this CPE Episode, we’ll explore the power of fractional shares, their impact on market volatility, and how they’ve opened up exciting opportunities for first-time investors. Whether you're just starting or looking to enhance your portfolio, this is one episode you won’t want to miss!

    55 min

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