Ep. 22 - Permission to Begin: Lessons Beyond the Race with Keira D’Amato
Release Date: 09/04/2025
2 CPAs & The Mic
In episode 23 of 2 CPAs & The Mic, hosts Jeff Frable and Sara Mays sit down with Ashley Plyushko, Executive Director of the Oklahoma Accountancy Board (OAB), and John Curzon, Vice Chair of the OAB and founding partner of CCK Strategies. Together, they unpack the mission and mechanics of the OAB, its national influence through NASBA, and the evolving challenges facing the accounting profession—from the CPA pipeline shortage to the rise of private equity ownership in firms. Ashley & John share insight into the board’s enforcement process, the importance of ethical culture in...
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In this inspiring episode of 2 CPAs & The Mic, we chat with Keira D’Amato - professional runner, entrepreneur, and mom of two - whose journey redefines athletic success. After nearly a decade away from elite running, Keira made a stunning comeback while building a real estate business and raising a family. She shares the mindset behind her return, the emotions of setting and losing a marathon record, and insights from her upcoming book Don’t Call It a Comeback, which celebrates purpose over glory. Her reflections on failure, identity, and competition offer fresh inspiration for anyone...
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In episode 21 of 2 CPAs & The Mic, we sit down with John Bundren, Director of Client Advisory Services (CAS) at CCK Strategies, to explore the evolution of accounting into a forward-thinking advisory model known as CAS 2.0. John shares how CAS has moved beyond traditional bookkeeping to become a strategic partnership that empowers business leaders to make smarter financial decisions. John breaks down the four-phase lifecycle of a (CAS) engagement—Discovery, Onboarding, Recurring Advisory, and Review—and explains how each phase builds value through structured communication and a deep...
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In episode 20 of 2 CPAs & The Mic, we sit down with Jim Hicks, CFO and COO of CCK Strategies for a candid conversation packed with insights every business owner needs. From global negotiations to multimillion-dollar acquisitions, Jim’s career offers lessons on the real drivers of business success. Discover when to hire a CFO, how to structure your executive team, and why knowing how your business makes money is the key to growth. Whether you’re scaling or just starting out, this episode is a masterclass in strategic leadership and building a company that lasts.
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In episode 19 of 2 CPAs & The Mic, we sit down with Eric Gregg, founder of ClearlyRated, to explore how professional service firms can elevate client satisfaction using the Net Promoter Score (NPS). Eric breaks down the NPS system, shares insights from CCK Strategies’ own experience, and explains why feedback—especially the tough kind—is a goldmine for growth. From the emotional impact of client responses to the role of technology and emotional intelligence, this episode offers practical strategies for turning feedback into loyalty. Tune in for actionable advice, industry trends,...
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In episode 18 of 2 CPAs & The Mic, we sit down with Blake Postelwait, CPA, CVA, to discuss business valuation and the evolving landscape for professionals in public accounting. Blake shares his career journey from audit to industry and back, highlighting the “boomerang effect” that often draws individuals back to the cadence of firm life. You will gain insights into the valuation process, including key methodologies and the importance of mentorship in developing technical and leadership skills. Blake also opens up about his personal approach to work-life harmony, from morning workouts...
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What do you get when a love for sports collides with a passion for numbers? A game-changing approach to financial strategy for athletes and entertainers. In episode 17 of 2 CPAs & The Mic, Jeff and Sara are joined by teammate and fellow CCK Partner - Caleb Caldwell. Caleb has built a thriving niche serving high-profile clients—from college athletes navigating NIL deals to seasoned pros managing multi-stream income. You’ll get an inside look at the unique tax challenges facing professional athletes and entertainers, the art of building trust with clients in the spotlight, and how a...
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In Episode 16 of 2 CPAs & The Mic, Jeff and Sara welcome a special guest, Clarence Fisher from Tulsa Internet Marketing Services. A trusted collaborator and friend of the show, Clarence offers creative and practical insights that our listeners are sure to appreciate. Clarence shares his journey from a 10-year career in radio to becoming a digital marketing expert and introduces his powerful R4 Framework—a system designed to create predictable, sustainable growth. From managing your Google Business Profile and building trust through reviews, to expanding visibility, maximizing customer...
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In Episode 15 of 2 CPAs & The Mic, hosts Jeff Frable and Sara Mays chat with BreAnne Peters, Tax Team Leader at CCK Strategies, about her unexpected leap from clarinet performance major to tax professional. With her vibrant personality and unapologetically authentic style, BreAnne breaks the mold of the “typical accountant.” This episode dives into her seven-year journey at CCK, her choice to pursue EA certification over CPA, her passion for mentoring, and her love for Harry Styles—including 13 concerts and a whirlwind trip to Italy. BreAnne’s story is a refreshing...
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In this bonus episode of 2 CPAs & The Mic, hosts Jeff Frable and Sara Mays break down the newly signed “One Big Beautiful Bill” (OBBB) tax legislation, signed into law on July 4th. Described as a “Super Bowl” moment for tax professionals, this episode offers a high-level overview of the sweeping changes—without diving into the political weeds. Jeff and Sara discuss the tax implications, especially the permanence of several key provisions from the 2017 Tax Cuts and Jobs Act (TCJA). They also outline what’s ahead: extended provisions for individuals, new individual...
info_outlineIn this inspiring episode of 2 CPAs & The Mic, we chat with Keira D’Amato - professional runner, entrepreneur, and mom of two - whose journey redefines athletic success. After nearly a decade away from elite running, Keira made a stunning comeback while building a real estate business and raising a family.
She shares the mindset behind her return, the emotions of setting and losing a marathon record, and insights from her upcoming book Don’t Call It a Comeback, which celebrates purpose over glory. Her reflections on failure, identity, and competition offer fresh inspiration for anyone chasing a second act.