CPA vs CFO: Are You Trusting the Wrong Financial Expert?
Release Date: 04/23/2025
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info_outlineThink you're making money just because the bank account isn’t empty? Hate to break it to you…but that’s not how business works.
In this episode of The Liquid Lunch Project, Matt and Luigi sit down with Teresa Wagonseller, founder of HigherUp CFO Services, to rip the lid off a big misconception: small businesses don’t need a CFO. Spoiler alert—they do.
Teresa explains the difference between CPAs and CFOs (hint: one is stuck in the past, the other helps you build a future), breaks down what cash flow actually is (and why you probably suck at managing it), and gives real-world examples of turning hot messes into money-makers.
Episode Highlights:
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CFOs focus on growth; CPAs focus on compliance—know the difference.
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You don’t need to be a Fortune 500 company to afford a CFO.
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Fractional CFOs give small biz owners expert support without breaking the bank.
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Cash flow problems? Look at who owes you, who you owe, and fix your damn terms.
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Contractors, SaaS founders, and even doctors are all flying blind without financial leadership.
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Stop “hiding profits” for tax purposes if you ever want to sell your business.
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Liquidity > Cash. Plan like a boss, not like you're dodging Uncle Sam.
Favorite Quote:
“The main difference between the two is a CPA is focused on the past… the CFO is focused on the future.”
Who is Teresa?
Teresa Wagonseller is a CPA-turned-fractional CFO who’s worked with everything from mom-and-pop shops to billion-dollar companies. Her firm, HigherUp CFO Services, helps business owners stop winging it with their money and start making strategic decisions that lead to growth, profit, and actual peace of mind.
Take Action:
If you’ve ever wondered where the hell your money is going, this episode is your wake-up call. Hit play. Then hit up a CFO.
Connect With Teresa:
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