Unlocking Potential: How CliftonStrengths® Transforms Business Dynamics
Release Date: 04/24/2025
Open the Envelope: Demystifying IRS Interactions
2 CPAs & The Mic
In episode 13 of 2 CPAs & The Mic, Jeff Frable and Sara Mays are joined by their CCK partner, IRS-savvy, Luann Rinowski, for a candid and insightful conversation about navigating the world of IRS representation. Luann shares how she stumbled into her niche—handling IRS audit. Her secret? Treating IRS agents like real people (with a healthy dose of professionalism). Luann’s authentic blend of genuine care for people and unwavering professionalism has been the foundation of her successful career. The group dives into: Why clients typically receive IRS notices The golden rule of...
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Pick Your Avatar: The Entity Edition
2 CPAs & The Mic
Starting a business is exciting. Learn why selecting the right entity structure is important to ensure smooth operations and avoid any potential challenges down the road. In episode 12 of 2 CPAs & The Mic, hosts Jeff Frable and Sara Mays unpack the real-world implications of selecting a business entity. Whether you’re a brand-new entrepreneur, a side-hustler earning passive income, or a seasoned owner scaling into new ventures, this episode offers the insight you didn’t know you needed. The team dives into the pros and cons of sole proprietorships, LLCs, partnerships, and...
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The Changing Landscape of College Sports: NIL and the Future of Athletics
2 CPAs & The Mic
In episode 11 of “2 CPAs & The Mic,” Jeff Frable and Sara Mays sit down with ORU’s Athletic Director Tim Johnson to discuss how the introduction of NIL (Name, Image & Likeness) is changing the landscape of college athletics. Initially designed as a way for athletes to receive fair compensation, NIL has quickly evolved into what many now view as a form of “pay for play.” This shift was driven by key legal cases such as the O’Bannon and Alston cases, and most recently, the House settlement, which introduced revenue sharing and allowed universities to manage NIL activities...
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Going Global: Understanding the Nuances of International Business Taxation
2 CPAs & The Mic
Borders become blurred in our connected world and small businesses can easily find themselves with international tax obligations without realizing it. Our digital-first economy has dramatically increased international exposure through online sales platforms, payment processors, and remote workforce arrangements. In episode 10 of “2 CPAs & The Mic,” hosts Jeff Frable and Sara Mays are joined by fellow CCK partner Kaitlin Flinn to discuss how businesses can navigate international tax requirements including: foreign bank account reporting requirements (FBARs), tax treaty benefits, and...
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Harmonizing Work and Family: Beyond the Myth of Balance
2 CPAs & The Mic
In episode 9 of “2 CPAs & The Mic,” hosts Jeff Frable and Sara Mays welcome fellow partner Kyna Leyva to discuss the reality of navigating a thriving family life and robust career. Kyna shares candid insights about how "work-life balance" is a misleading concept and how to think about "harmonizing" your whole life instead, the importance of setting realistic expectations and giving grace to yourself, how to be fully present whether at work or with family and the value of finding mentors who are a few steps ahead in your journey. Kyna emphasizes that no one "does it all" - sharing...
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Concrete, Capital & Collaboration: A Masterclass in Commercial Real Estate
2 CPAs & The Mic
From college basketball to $70 million development deals, Matt Mardis has seen and done it all in the world of commercial real estate. In this enlightening and entertaining episode of 2 CPAs & The Mic, Jeff and Sara sit down with the seasoned broker and developer to explore the inner workings of CRE—from land acquisition and vertical planning to investor relationships and emerging trends. Matt unpacks the four core “food groups” of commercial real estate (retail, industrial, multifamily, and office), discusses the Tulsa market’s unique growth story, and explains why site...
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Modernizing Human Resources: Embracing Flexibility, Remote Work, and Building Trust
2 CPAs & The Mic
In episode 7 of "2 CPAs & The Mic," partners Jeff Frable and Sara Mays welcome Victoria Guerre, Director of Human Resources at CCK Strategies, for a candid and contemporary look at how HR is evolving in today's workplace. Victoria shares stories and insights that redefine what Human Resources means in a post-pandemic, multi-generational business world. The discussion dives into everything from remote work and hybrid flexibility to generational motivation, the importance of personal branding, and how culture and expectations are being rewritten. Whether you're a business owner, HR...
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The Hidden Costs of Not Having a CPA
2 CPAs & The Mic
Doing your own taxes may seem like a smart way to save money—but it could be costing you more than you think. In episode 6 of “Two CPAs & the Mic,” hosts Jeff Frable and Sara Mays sit down with Jordan Tudor to unpack the hidden costs of DIY tax prep, from missed deductions and penalties to costly setup mistakes for new businesses. We also share examples of how working with a CPA actually pays for itself in peace of mind and long-term savings. If you're on the fence, this episode may be the nudge you need.
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What Great Banking Relationships Look Like (And Why They Matter)
2 CPAs & The Mic
When rates rise, stress follows - and for small business owners, that can spell trouble. So, who's in your corner when things get tough? In this episode, Jeff and Sara sit down with Sean Kouplen, CEO and Chairman of Regent Bank, to unpack what rising interest rates, inflation, and regulatory shifts mean for small businesses - and why the relationship you have with your bank could make or break you in uncertain times. From navigating post-COVID economic realities to building a culture where people feel loved (yes, even at a bank), Sean shares the mindset, systems, and core values...
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Navigating Uncertainty: Strategic Insights for Business Leaders
2 CPAs & The Mic
In this episode, Jeff and Sara sit down with CCK partner Aaron Spoon to discuss the real concerns facing business decision-makers. They cover a range of topics, including rising interest rates, workforce challenges, estate planning, and bonus depreciation. The conversation explores how leading business owners are navigating uncertainty and making decisions calmly, emphasizing that taxes should not be the primary reason for any strategic move. Whether you’re leading a company or advising one, this open and honest discussion offers practical insights on how to remain grounded,...
info_outlineIn Episode 3 of 2 CPAs and the Mic, hosts Jeff Frable and Sara Mays dive into the topic of CliftonStrengths , exploring what it is and how it can be utilized in business to enhance productivity, profitability, and team interactions. They are joined by Kristie Porter, a long-time team member at CCK, who shares her extensive experience and insights on the subject. Kristie discusses her diverse role at the firm, her journey with CliftonStrengths®, and how it has been integrated into CCK's culture to foster individual strengths and improve team dynamics. The conversation highlights the importance of understanding and leveraging personal strengths for business success and offers practical advice for implementing CliftonStrengths® in any organization. Want to connect with us? Email us at [email protected].
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