Episode 45: Stacking Technologies for Extreme Automation
The Woodard Report Podcast: Featuring Heather Satterley and Joe Woodard
Release Date: 02/15/2021
The Woodard Report Podcast: Featuring Heather Satterley and Joe Woodard
On this episode Joe speaks with Dan Hood, editor-in-chief of Accounting Today, about the latest trends from Accounting Today's research on the Top 100 firms, the explosive growth of Client Accounting Services (CAS), and how firms are adapting to staffing shortages and technological innovation. They dive into why CAS is the future growth engine for accounting firms, how leadership and process changes are critical, and the evolving role of AI as a near-future disruptor in the industry. Thank you to our show sponsor, Bill! Bill is the intelligent way to create and pay bills, send invoices, manage...
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On this episode Joe and Heather talk about their recent experience taking a business leadership course on artificial intelligence at Brown University, where they explored the different types of AI—narrow, agentic, and general—and how each impacts the future of accounting. They emphasize that AI is no longer optional for firms; it’s a competitive necessity, especially when paired with strategic data usage. Heather and Joe break down real-world applications—from automating blog writing and client communication to interpreting credit card statements and regulatory implications—urging...
info_outlineThe Woodard Report Podcast: Featuring Heather Satterley and Joe Woodard
On this episode Joe Woodard speaks with Deb Defer, Director of CAS Consulting at Woodard, about how firms can turn client onboarding from a loss leader into a profitable, strategic phase of their CAS engagements. They explore pricing structures like evergreen retainers, volume-discounted cleanups, and onboarding fees to ensure firms aren’t losing money or undervaluing their services. The episode is packed with actionable advice for firms of all sizes looking to boost MRR and avoid getting stuck in once-a-year cleanup chaos. Thank you to our show sponsor, Bill — your financial operations...
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On this episode, Heather Satterley chats with Dave Olsen and Shane Rowley from Nimbl about a big question many accounting pros wrestle with: Should you keep your firm small and flexible or scale it up? Dave shares his personal journey of growing Nimbl from a solo practice into a thriving business with over 100 team members, while Shane talks openly about how he drove Nimbl's growth to $6 million in revenue (and what he learned along the way). You'll hear real-world stories, practical tips, and honest reflections about the challenges and rewards of growth, keeping your firm profitable without...
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On this episode, Heather speaks with Todd Robinson, Director of Practice Engagement at Woodard, about the evolution of the accounting industry over the past two decades, from the early days of QuickBooks Online to today's AI-driven landscape. They explore the rise of Client Advisory Services (CAS), the growing interest of private equity in accounting firms, and the critical importance of adopting modern technology to stay competitive. Thank you to our show sponsor, Brex! Brex Accounting Partners close clients’ books faster, earn rewards for referrals, and attract new customers — all on...
info_outlineThe Woodard Report Podcast: Featuring Heather Satterley and Joe Woodard
On this episode Joe speaks with Heather about why operations should be the next big focus in your practice. Heather emphasizes the importance of documenting and reflecting on current processes to identify areas for improvement. The discussion also covers aligning operational improvements with firm culture, broadening technology views with automation and AI, and practical steps to stay ahead in the coming year. TV and Movie Quote: Heather quoted The Office Joe quoted 1923 Book of the Week: Favorite Social Posts: Heather mentioned Joe mentioned The Woodard Report Article of the...
info_outlineThe Woodard Report Podcast: Featuring Heather Satterley and Joe Woodard
On this episode, Joe speaks with Heather about the complexities of trust—how it’s broken, why it happens, and most importantly, how to restore it in business and personal relationships. They outline a five-step approach to rebuilding trust, emphasizing self-awareness, assessing intent, and fostering meaningful resolutions. TV and Movie Quote: Heather quoted Eat, Pray, Love Joe quoted Rocky III Book of the Week: Favorite Social Posts: Heather mentioned Nancy McClelland on LinkedIn Joe mentioned Adam Markowitz on X/Twitter The Woodard Report Article of the Week: Thank you to our...
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On this episode, Heather and Joe talk about seven essential productivity hacks to help accountants and bookkeepers stay sane during the busy season. They cover strategies like the two-minute rule, email automation, mindset shifts, and the importance of setting boundaries to maintain efficiency and well-being. Joe also revisits The Execution Factor by Kim Perrell (from episode 41 of the Woodard Report podcast). TV and Movie Quote: Heather quoted Everything Everywhere All at Once Joe quoted Michael Corleone from the Godfather Book of the Week: by Kim Perrell Joe interviewed Kim Perrell ...
info_outlineThe Woodard Report Podcast: Featuring Heather Satterley and Joe Woodard
On this episode, Heather and Joe talk about the essentials of building a thriving company culture, breaking it down into three key categories: directional, interactive, and operational. They also discuss the importance of defining a company’s vision, mission, and purpose, fostering trust and servant leadership within teams. Books discussed in the first segment of the show: TV and Movie Quote: Heather quoted Severance (Apple TV) Joe quoted Real Time with Bill Maher Book Quote: by Simon Sinek The Woodard Report article highlighted during the show: Thank you to our show...
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On this episode Joe speaks with Gene Marks about how the DOGE initiative is shaking up government spending and prompting a reexamination of fiscal policies that impact the accounting profession and small businesses. Gene breaks down the effects of IRS layoffs and ERC uncertainties offering strategic insights for navigating these turbulent economic shifts. About Gene Marks A past columnist for both The New York Times and The Washington Post, Gene now writes regularly for The Hill, The Philadelphia Inquirer, Forbes, Entrepreneur Magazine, The Washington Times, and The Guardian. Gene has...
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