From Analysis to Testimony: Key Skills for a Career in Forensic and Valuation Services
Release Date: 06/12/2025
From Analysis to Testimony: Key Skills for a Career in Forensic and Valuation Services
The FVS Valuation Podcast
This is a refreshed version of an episode from July 2021. Some voice distortion may be present. Please scroll down to find links to essential resources that have been developed since the original publish date. In this episode, we explore the many paths available to accounting and finance majors who aspire to work in forensics and valuation services particularly as an expert witness. Dean Driskell tells his journey as a forensic accounting and valuation professional. He and host, Josh Shilts, share pivotal moments that have defined their careers and the skills they consider essential for...
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Early-Stage Valuation, A Conversation with author Antonella Puca
The FVS Valuation Podcast
In the evolving world of alternative investments, AICPA's "PE/VC" guide often is only a starting point in the valuation of complex financial instruments. Valuation specialists in this field combine their experience with formal guidance and financial theory. Ms. Antonella Puca, Managing Partner at BlueVal, wrote a book on “Early Stage Valuation, A Fair Value Perspective” that summarizes her studies and experience in this field. We will discuss her journey and hear how she addresses: Presenting technical complexity in a clear and concise form Influence of the fair...
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Complexities Of Subsequent Events in Business Valuation
The FVS Valuation Podcast
Catherine and Nathan, both seasoned CPAs and ABVs, discuss the complexities of subsequent events in business valuation. They explain the definition, implications, and relevance of these events in contexts like estate and gift tax transactions. Their conversation covers how these events can affect or indicate value, the standards and court rulings involved, and the challenges of determining what is known or knowable at the valuation date. Key Takeaways: Definition of subsequent events are particularly relevant in litigation, estate, and gift tax transactions Known or knowable at the valuation...
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Dissenting Shareholder Disputes
The FVS Valuation Podcast
Dissenting shareholder disputes occur when minority shareholders believe their shares are undervalued in a company transaction, leading to legal dissent. There is a difference between dissenting and oppressed shareholder matters which our expert, Hubert Klein, will explain as well as the legal and valuation standards that are used. Klein highlights the importance of transparency and professional skepticism and thorough understanding of both sides' perspectives, such as: Common triggers for dissenting shareholder actions Preventing dissenting shareholder issues Reconciling valuation...
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Enhancing Professional Growth through AICPA FVS Section Resources and Participation
The FVS Valuation Podcast
The discussion underscores the importance of participating in professional communities like the AICPA FVS Section for continuous learning and support. Bethany and Tade highlight how the FVS community has significantly contributed to their professional growth by providing key resources to assist with client engagements and a supportive community of professionals. Using FVS Section resources in client work Networking benefits – connecting with supportive SMEs Community involvement aiding professional development Continue reading to learn about key resources available at...
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Financial Instrument Valuation Series: SAFEs, Convertible Notes, and Embedded Derivatives
The FVS Valuation Podcast
Simple Agreement for Future Equity (SAFEs), convertible notes, and embedded derivatives are among financial instruments which feature optionality, which can obscure confidence in the expected value of the associated future economic benefits. Published guidance is limited, and adding to the complexity, some alternative investment transactions have optionality features lurking within, dormant, and not readily apparent. This presents a wrinkle for practitioners who try to value assets which could morph into something else tomorrow. Listen to how specialists in this area approach...
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Women Leaders in Business Valuation
The FVS Valuation Podcast
To celebrate Women's History Month, we are excited to share a special episode for our FVS Valuation podcast which explores the diverse backgrounds of several business valuation leaders, their paths into a career in business valuation, and their journeys to becoming experts in the field. The conversation highlights the many routes that can lead to success in business valuation, including The significance of obtaining the Accredited in Business Valuation (ABV) credential and how it has impacted their careers Their strategies for achieving a healthy work-life balance while excelling...
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Transparency in Private Market Valuations
The FVS Valuation Podcast
In early 2025, the new US administration has been implementing changes which could affect regulatory oversight in private markets and alternative investments. Transparency in asset valuation is vital, especially where regulation is limited. Inadequate valuations or outdated financial reports can negatively impact investor decisions, leading to market inefficiencies and reduced confidence. Our presenter, an expert in private market valuation, provides insights and recommendations on managing these issues. Key takeaways: Industrywide benefits of enhanced transparency How to verify...
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Reconciling Discount Rates for Intangible Asset Valuation in PPAs
The FVS Valuation Podcast
Maryellen and Ross delve into the subjectivity and controversy surrounding discount rates, the importance of understanding the asset and forecast inputs, and the application of market participant assumptions. Including these key takeaways: Subjectivity in Discount Rates: Understanding the significant subjectivity and controversy in determining discount rates. Qualitative Assessments: The role of qualitative assessments in aligning discount rates with associated risks. Resources and Guides: Utilizing available resources to enhance valuation analyses. Continue reading to learn about key...
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Valuation Considerations in Equity Compensation
The FVS Valuation Podcast
Derivatives such as options have been used to reward employees for many years, and executive pay packages often include features of complex derivative securities such as options and restricted stock with vesting schedules based on various contingencies. Join us for a deeper look of what’s “under the hood” in the relevant valuation techniques such as lattice models and Monte Carlo simulation, and how these relate to regulations such as ASC 718 and the new Pay versus Performance (“PvP”) requirements for proxy statements. • Relevance of Internal Revenue Code...
info_outlineThis is a refreshed version of an episode from July 2021. Some voice distortion may be present. Please scroll down to find links to essential resources that have been developed since the original publish date.
In this episode, we explore the many paths available to accounting and finance majors who aspire to work in forensics and valuation services particularly as an expert witness. Dean Driskell tells his journey as a forensic accounting and valuation professional. He and host, Josh Shilts, share pivotal moments that have defined their careers and the skills they consider essential for success.
Key Topics Discussed:
- Insights into the diverse career opportunities within the profession
- Practical advice on how to navigate the intersection of finance and accounting through the different stages of one’s career
- Understanding your audience and how it can impact your effectiveness as a professional
- Strategies for developing and honing skills that are essential for success and how to find opportunities to improve these skills
Check out our newest resource Welcome to a career in forensic and valuation services - early-career guidance, built for you (accessible to everyone)
Guest: F. Dean Driskell III, CPA/ABV/CFF, Executive VP, JS Held LLC
Host: Josh Shilts, CPA/ABV/CFF/CGMA, Dean Dornton
Please share your thoughts about the episode - click here to leave us a review
Want to get involved with future FVS conferences, committees, task forces, or the standing ovation program? Send a message to [email protected]
RESOURCES FOR FURTHER EXPLORATION
If you’re using a podcast app that does not hyperlink to the resources, please visit our podcast platform to access the show notes with direct links.
- AICPA Forensic & Valuation Services Conference, Oct 28-30, Aurora, CO, in person and online
- AICPA Expert Witness Skills Workshop, Oct 28-30, Aurora, CO,in person only
- Business Valuation School - Sep 8-12, Raleigh NC, in person only
- Business Valuation School - Dec 1-5, Live online
NEW RESOURCE Welcome to a career in forensic and valuation services - early-career guidance, built for you
The FVS Valuation Podcast archives
- Women Leaders in Business Valuation
- The Business Valuation Profession
- Enhancing Professional Growth through AICPA FVS Section Resources and Participation
LEARN MORE ABOUT THE FOLLOWING AICPA CREDENTIALS:
Accredited in Business Valuation (ABV®) – Visit the home page and check out the ABV infographic
Certified in the Valuation of Financial Instruments (CVFI®) – Visit the home page and check out the CVFI infographic
Certified in Financial Forensics (CFF®) - Visit the home page and check out the CFF infographic
This is a podcast from AICPA & CIMA, together as the Association of International Certified Professional Accountants. To enjoy more conversations from our global community of accounting and finance professionals, explore our network of free shows here. Your feedback and comments are welcomed at [email protected]