Erica Goode, CPA, reveals how she built a thriving $200K accounting firm working just 15 hours a week. Discover the power of niching, efficient processes, and work-life balance in this candid discussion. Erica will share her journey from corporate burnout to entrepreneurial success, offering practical insights on pricing strategies, time management, and building authority in your niche. Whether you're considering starting your own firm or optimizing your existing practice, this webinar will inspire and equip you to reimagine what's possible in your accounting career.

(Originally recorded on October 16, 2024, on Earmark Webinars+)

Sponsor
ShareFile - https://earmarkcpe.promo/sharefile

• (02:39) - Welcome Erica to the Show
• (04:55) - Transition from Corporate to Entrepreneurship
• (06:28) - Life in Idaho and Outdoor Activities
• (08:06) - Burnout and Decision to Leave Corporate
• (11:12) - Starting the Accounting Firm
• (19:20) - Client Growth and Service Tiers
• (30:23) - Systematizing CFO Services
• (32:37) - Client Report Preparation and Meetings
• (33:25) - Listener Question: Monthly Meeting Agenda
• (35:03) - Forecasting and Cash Flow Discussions
• (37:46) - The Value of Monthly Meetings
• (38:55) - Balancing Work and Client Relationships
• (39:51) - Handling Client Taxes and Referrals
• (41:27) - Marketing and Client Acquisition
• (44:34) - Podcasting and Providing Free Advice
• (48:39) - Scaling a Solo Practice
• (50:34) - Balancing Work and Personal Life
• (59:41) - Final Thoughts and Resources

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

Connect with Our Guest, Erica Goode

LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/erica-goode-cpa-00205616/

Connect with Blake Oliver, CPA

LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/blaketoliver
Twitter: https://twitter.com/blaketoliver/

Join Ryan Spohn, CFO of Sikich, and host Blake Oliver to explore how modern CPA firms are revolutionizing the industry by abandoning the traditional partnership model. Discover innovative strategies for attracting and retaining top talent, including Sikich's alternative practice structure and novel performance metrics. Learn how firms shift from "total hours worked" to holistic evaluations of effectiveness, client satisfaction, and quality. We'll also discuss service diversification, internal mobility, and technology investments. Plus, get insights on Sikich's recent $250M Bain Capital investment. Don't miss this opportunity to understand the future of accounting firms!

(Originally recorded on September 26, 2024, on Earmark Webinars+)

Sponsor
ShareFile - https://earmarkcpe.promo/sharefile

• (00:39) - Meet Ryan Spohn, CFO of Sikich
• (01:46) - Sikich's Alternative Practice Structure
• (02:58) - Private Equity Investment from Bain Capital
• (03:57) - Strategies for Attracting and Retaining Top Talent
• (08:46) - Employee Wellness and Work-Life Integration
• (11:18) - Innovative Billing and Client Engagement
• (21:20) - Modernizing ERP and Technology Stack
• (27:08) - Ryan Non-Traditional Background
• (29:28) - The Importance of Understanding the Work
• (30:39) - Expertise and Team Composition
• (31:02) - Transition to Public Accounting
• (32:34) - Equity and Compensation Challenges
• (34:00) - Innovative Equity Solutions at Sikich
• (37:17) - Reinvesting in the Firm
• (46:07) - Internal Mobility at Sikich
• (48:40) - The Future of Accounting with AI
• (54:41) - Conclusion and Final Thoughts

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

Connect with Our Guest, Ryan Spohn

LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/ryan-spohn-9b21431/

Connect with Blake Oliver, CPA

LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/blaketoliver
Twitter: https://twitter.com/blaketoliver/

Join Blake Oliver for an interview with Eric Azevedo, a California CPA who has set up his own international tax practice in rural Japan. Discover how Eric leveraged his Japanese language skills to break into Tokyo's accounting scene and the unique challenges he faced. We'll delve into the complexities of international taxation, U.S. expat issues, and strategies for effective cross-border tax preparation. Whether you're planning an international move or interested in global accounting, gain valuable insights from Eric's journey and learn how to bridge cultures in the world of tax. Don’t miss this opportunity to enhance your international tax expertise!

(Originally recorded on September 16, 2024, on Earmark Webinars+)

Sponsor
ShareFile - https://earmarkcpe.promo/sharefile

• (01:19) - Eric's Journey from Philosophy to Accounting
• (03:04) - Life and Career in Japan
• (04:19) - Transitioning Back to the US and Becoming a CPA
• (05:56) - Experiences in the California Community College System
• (07:49) - Living in Japan: City vs Countryside
• (10:44) - Starting an Accounting Career in Japan
• (17:32) - Cultural Adjustments and Work-Life Balance
• (27:00) - Working with Expats and Tax Complexities
• (31:41) - Understanding Tax Penalties for Expats
• (32:48) - Streamline Procedures for Tax Compliance
• (33:59) - Navigating the Japanese Tax System
• (37:37) - Remote Work and Connectivity in Japan
• (40:56) - Building a Home in Rural Japan
• (43:19) - Managing a Growing Client Base
• (53:03) - Cultural Nuances in International Accounting
• (55:18) - Travel Tips and Destinations in Japan
• (57:42) - Conclusion and Contact Information

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

Connect with Our Guest, Eric Azevedo

LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/ericazevedo

Connect with Blake Oliver, CPA

LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/blaketoliver
Twitter: https://twitter.com/blaketoliver/

Join Blake Oliver as he interviews Kyle Walters, CPA firm partner and wealth manager at Atlas Wealth Advisors. Despite not being a CPA himself, Kyle brings a fresh perspective to the accounting world. We'll explore:

- The benefits of integrating wealth management and accounting services
- How non-traditional backgrounds can lead to innovative approaches
- Candid insights into client feedback that CPAs rarely hear
- Strategies for delivering the integrated advice clients truly want

(Originally recorded on August 1, 2024, on Earmark Webinars+)

Sponsor
MakersHub - https://earmarkcpe.promo/makershub

• (01:05) - Kyle's Journey into Wealth Management and CPA Integration
• (02:46) - Building a CPA Firm from Scratch
• (05:05) - Client-Centric Approach and the Red Chair Concept
• (06:28) - Differences Between Wealth Management and Traditional CPA Firms
• (10:15) - Challenges and Benefits of Integrated Services
• (15:11) - Improving Client Relationships and Communication
• (30:16) - Scheduling Work to Improve Efficiency
• (35:48) - Client Communication Challenges & Strategies
• (38:21) - Logistical Issues and Solutions
• (41:28) - The Role of CPAs and Financial Advisors
• (47:40) - Integrated Financial Advice
• (50:49) - Client Engagement and Meeting Schedules
• (53:46) - The Future of Accounting and Financial Advice
• (55:41) - Getting Started in Wealth Management
• (01:00:33) - The Impact of AI on Tax Preparation
• (01:01:45) - Conclusion and Upcoming Events

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

Connect with Our Guest, Kyle Walters
LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/kyledwalters

Connect with Blake Oliver, CPA

LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/blaketoliver
Twitter: https://twitter.com/blaketoliver/

Join Blake Oliver for a conversation with Lynnette Oss Connell and Craig Connell as they share their real-life journey of selling their Client Accounting Services (CAS) firm to a larger regional CPA firm. This webinar will explore the complexities and challenges of transitioning a boutique practice into a larger organization. Gain valuable insights on preparing for a sale, negotiating terms, and ensuring a smooth transition for your clients and team. Whether you're considering selling your firm now or in the future, this session offers actionable strategies and expert advice to help you navigate the process successfully.

(Originally recorded on August 27, 2024, on Earmark Webinars+)

Sponsor
MakersHub - https://earmarkcpe.promo/makershub

• (01:09) - Founding ClickPNW: Lynette and Craig's Journey
• (02:50) - Client Services and Growth Strategies
• (05:26) - Challenges and Successes in Client Management
• (09:28) - Deciding to Sell: Personal and Professional Factors
• (18:09) - Finding the Right Buyer: The Sweeney Conrad Story
• (31:39) - Transitioning to a New Firm
• (32:16) - Employee and Client Considerations and Unexpected Challenges
• (33:56) - Transitioning Staff and Clients
• (36:50) - Client Relationships and Retention
• (39:15) - Administrative Challenges
• (44:30) - Lessons Learned and Advice
• (55:15) - Future Plans and Reflections
• (59:41) - Conclusion and CPE Information

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

Connect with Our Guests:

Lynnette Oss Connell
LinkedIn: http://linkedin.com/in/lynnette-oss-connell-cpa

Craig Connell
LinkedIn: http://www.linkedin.com/in/craigconnellcpa

Connect with Blake Oliver, CPA

LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/blaketoliver
Twitter: https://twitter.com/blaketoliver/

Blake Oliver interviews Savannah Bananas CFO Tim Naddy to learn unconventional strategies for explosive business growth. Discover how this innovative sports entertainment team achieved a million-fan waitlist and sold out over 200 consecutive games. Tim will share insights on creating innovative revenue streams, developing fan-centric KPIs to drive profitability, and managing financial risks in rapidly scaling businesses. Whether you're in sports, entertainment, or another industry, discover how to apply these creative accounting practices to transform your financial approach. Walk away with actionable strategies to enhance customer engagement, boost growth, and reimagine your business's financial success.

(Originally recorded on August 7, 2024, on Earmark Webinars+)

Sponsor
MakersHub - https://earmarkcpe.promo/makershub

• (00:00) - How to Earn CPE
• (01:17) - Behind the Scenes with the Savannah Bananas
• (03:06) - The Role of a CPA in Sports Entertainment
• (04:40) - Educating the Next Generation of Creatives
• (07:37) - The Savannah Bananas Phenomenon
• (12:59) - Fan-Centric Business Model
• (20:23) - Challenges and Innovations in Finance
• (29:20) - Touring and Merchandise Strategy
• (34:48) - Partnering for Regional Warehousing
• (35:30) - Forecasting Inventory Needs
• (36:05) - Managing Merchandise Logistics
• (37:06) - Understanding Fan Data
• (39:03) - Finance Tech Stack Overview
• (49:12) - Challenges of Rapid Expansion
• (55:55) - Creative Accounting Practices
• (59:14) - Advice for Aspiring Accountants
• (01:02:10) - Conclusion and CPE Information

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

Connect with Our Guest, Tim Naddy
LinkedIn: http://www.linkedin.com/in/drtimnaddy221b

Learn more about The Savannah Bananas
https://thesavannahbananas.com/

Connect with Blake Oliver, CPA

LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/blaketoliver
Twitter: https://twitter.com/blaketoliver/

Join Blake Oliver, CPA, and Scott Hodge, President Emeritus and Senior Policy Advisor at the Tax Foundation, for an engaging and insightful webinar that delves into the complexities of tax policy as discussed in Scott's new book, "Taxocracy." Discover how tax policies impact everyday expenses like housing, healthcare, and education, and learn surprising historical tax facts such as the 18th-century British “window tax” and its relevance to today's proposed wealth taxes.

(Originally recorded on July 25, 2024, on Earmark Webinars+)

Sponsor
Bookkeeping Biz Workshops - https://earmarkcpe.promo/bbworkshop

• (00:46) - Introducing 'Taxocracy'
• (04:10) - Education and Tuition Costs
• (11:24) - Principles of Tax Policy
• (15:27) - Corporate Tax Rates Debate
• (24:23) - Tariffs and Economic Impact
• (29:42) - Impact of Trade Wars on Consumer Goods
• (31:03) - Tax Policies and Their Consequences
• (34:28) - Unintended Consequences of Tax Policies
• (36:57) - Creative Tax Avoidance Strategies
• (40:10) - The Role and History of the Tax Foundation
• (44:13) - Challenges and Future of Tax Reform
• (51:59) - Global Tax Systems and Their Benefits
• (53:58) - Conclusion and Final Thoughts

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

Connect with Our Guest, Scott Hodge

LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/scottahodge/

Connect with Blake Oliver, CPA

LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/blaketoliver
Twitter: https://twitter.com/blaketoliver/

Greg Kyte and Caleb Newquist of the Oh My Fraud podcast share their favorite government fraud cases they've covered on the Oh My Fraud podcast, including Rita Crundwell's $53 million municipal fraud in Dixon, Illinois, and Claudia Viles' $500,000 tax-collector fraud in Anson, Maine. They also examine the "Fat Leonard" Navy contracting fraud, Eddie Tipton's lottery rigging scheme, and some pandemic-related frauds like PPP and EIDL abuse.

Sponsor
MakersHub - https://earmarkcpe.promo/makershub

• (00:52) - Overview of Government Frauds
• (01:58) - The Case of Rita Crundwell
• (06:43) - How Rita Crundwell Was Caught
• (14:36) - The Case of Claudia Viles
• (32:17) - The Fat Leonard Scandal Unveiled
• (33:43) - Exorbitant Invoices and Ignored Red Flags
• (34:45) - Bravo Zulus and Dirty Work
• (36:13) - Security Measures and Exploiting Tragedies
• (39:11) - The Crux of the Fraud: Inflated Invoices
• (41:00) - Lottery Fraud: Eddie Tipton's Scheme
• (49:20) - Pandemic Fraud: A Rock and a Hard Place
• (55:52) - Final Thoughts and Takeaways

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

Connect with Our Guests:

Greg Kyte, CPA

Website: http://www.comedyCPE.com
X: https://twitter.com/gregkyte
LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/gregkyte/

Caleb Newquist

X: https://twitter.com/cnewquist
LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/calebnewquist/

Learn more about Oh My Fraud

Website: https://ohmyfraud.com/

Connect with Blake Oliver, CPA

LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/blaketoliver
Twitter: https://twitter.com/blaketoliver/