Journal of Accountancy Podcast
The Journal of Accountancy podcast discusses the key issues facing the accounting profession.
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‘We’re still the thinkers’ — a reminder for tax pros in the AI era
09/18/2025
‘We’re still the thinkers’ — a reminder for tax pros in the AI era
In her professional career, Annette Nellen, Esq., CPA, CGMA, cannot recall a time when there was more misinformation in the realm of taxes than today, as practitioners wade through H.R. 1, P.L. 119-21, commonly known as the One Big Beautiful Bill Act. She believes an overreliance on artificial intelligence tools in analyzing the budget law is one reason. “You still have to review it,” said Nellen, a past chair of the AICPA Tax Executive Committee. “These AI tools — they’re tools. We're still the thinkers. We’re the responsible party involved here.” In this JofA podcast episode, Nellen mentioned several provisions of note in H.R. 1, including those where guidance is still needed. She also mentioned the value of the in November — where new tax provisions will be a central topic in sessions and individual conversations. What you’ll learn from this episode: · Some previously temporary tax provisions that are now permanent. · New tax provisions of note to Nellen. · A selection of provisions for which guidance or technical corrections may be needed. · IRS rulings and tax-related court cases Nellen has been following. · The response of one website creator when Nellen told the creator that some dot-gov sites are not properly updated.
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Strong storytelling helps speakers deliver ‘medicine’ without the aftertaste
09/11/2025
Strong storytelling helps speakers deliver ‘medicine’ without the aftertaste
Karim Ellis is the keynote speaker at the in October in Las Vegas. The early-bird registration deadline for the event is Friday. For Ellis, the qualities of a strong speaker are similar to the ones needed in a strong leader: empathy, preparedness, adaptability, and excellent storytelling skills. In this conversation, Ellis shares how he prepares for speaking, some of the rookie mistakes he made decades ago, and why the experience of taking some foul-tasting cough syrup has stuck with him. What you’ll learn from this episode: · The meaning for Ellis of the phrase “iron sharpens iron; rust sharpens rust.” · Why a speaker’s preparation is like baking a cake. · How Ellis adapts if he senses his message is failing to resonate with an audience. · An example from his childhood that illustrates the power of good storytelling. · His advice for conference attendees’ choice of seats for his session.
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Summing up economic sentiment and concerns about inflation and tariffs
09/04/2025
Summing up economic sentiment and concerns about inflation and tariffs
Sentiment about the U.S. economy improved slightly — but not nearly enough to be considered a positive outlook — in the latest quarterly Business and Industry Economic Outlook Survey by the AICPA and CIMA. For a breakdown of the results, the JofA podcast welcomed back Ken Witt, CPA, CGMA, associate director–Management Accounting Research & Development. He discusses finance decision-makers’ views on tariffs and inflation and the 12-month projections for revenue and profit. What you’ll learn from this episode: · The “softening” related to domestic economic conditions — and why that’s not enough to overcome mainly negative sentiment. · The percentage of executives who foresee a recession this year or next. · Finance leaders’ approaches in response to tariffs. · The top challenges beyond inflation facing survey respondents. · How respondents feel about the state of the global economy.
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Take a bold leap instead of a tentative step
08/29/2025
Take a bold leap instead of a tentative step
“Maybe I never will change the whole world. But every day, I can change my world.” Those are the words of profession leader Lindsay Stevenson, CPA, CGMA. She’s back on the JofA podcast, this time in person from her house in South Dakota. Stevenson discussed technology adoption, how her firm approaches remote work, and why keeping a journal at least for part of the year is important to her. Stevenson, chief transformation officer at the firm BPM, also addressed how she views fear as it relates to career moves — and how she thought about that differently in a . What you’ll learn from this episode: The reason her firm has geographical regions and a virtual region. Why unplugging is difficult but necessary for Stevenson. Why she likes an at-home vacation more than a big trip. Her approach to overcoming fear and how that approach has changed in the past six years. AI: its danger, its potential, and how she is using it. The gratitude-based journaling practice she recommends.
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Mark Koziel Q&A: Talent, sense of community, profession opportunities
08/28/2025
Mark Koziel Q&A: Talent, sense of community, profession opportunities
“We’re not short on things to do.” Those are the words of Mark Koziel, CPA, CGMA, CEO of the Association of International Certified Professional Accountants and president and CEO of the AICPA. He’s been in that role since the start of the year and traveled all over the world hearing from members. Summer’s end seemed like a good time for a progress report on a variety of fronts from Koziel, who at the time of publication was visiting Asia. This is a special edition of the podcast, published jointly on the Journal of Accountancy and FM channels. What you’ll learn from this episode: · Koziel’s ideal walkup song, nearly a year after his introduction included Ozzy Osbourne’s “Mama, I’m Coming Home.” · The skills gap affecting businesses around the world. · Global influence on accounting and standard setting. · Advocacy success, specifically in the United States. · The significance of preserving the passthrough entity tax deduction. · Examples of the perseverance that helped deliver that advocacy victory. · An update on CPA licensure efforts.
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Loving your work, leaving work behind, and returning refreshed
08/21/2025
Loving your work, leaving work behind, and returning refreshed
Jen Wilson admittedly loves her work. As partner and co-founder at ConvergenceCoaching LLC, she’s on the road often, advising accounting firms and profession leaders. Sometimes, that travel and love of work can give her colleagues cause for concern. “It troubles them if they can't see me unplug,” Wilson said. This episode of the JofA podcast, the second of a three-episode Midwest series focusing on summer travel, features Wilson talking about the value of time away. It was recorded in person, at her house in Bellevue, Neb. Wilson discussed the benefits of a two-week, end-of-year closure and why despite understanding the importance of a refresh, she sometimes takes work with her on vacation. Additionally, as the independent facilitator for the National Pipeline Advisory Group (NPAG), Wilson is plugged in to the talent issues facing the profession. She provided an update on where things stand with accounting talent with 2026 about four months away. What you’ll learn from this episode: · Wilson’s background as a longtime resident of Nebraska. · The reasons she travels often for work in the summer. · Why Wilson sometimes takes work with her on vacation – and her family’s reaction to that decision. · The benefits of an extended, full-company closure. · Her assessment of the accounting talent pipeline. · The meaning she finds in the quote, “Your direction is more important than your speed.”
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The power of a digital detox and the value of committee volunteering
08/14/2025
The power of a digital detox and the value of committee volunteering
For Carrie Kruse, CPA, CGMA, mental clarity is one goal of going on vacation. Also, Kruse likes to be tested while away from her job as economic development administrator for Iowa’s capital city, Des Moines. In Kruse’s words, she loves “to be challenged in ways outside of my professional sphere.” Recently, that challenge was a hike of more than 100 mountainous miles in Europe. That challenge also meant she unplugged from work for two weeks, which helped to ensure she returned to Iowa refreshed. This conversation is the first of a three-episode road trip to the Midwest with a theme of summer travel and the importance of taking time away. Episodes with finance leaders in Nebraska and South Dakota are coming later in the summer. What you’ll learn from this episode: · The particulars of Kruse’s economic development role. · Why she says that Des Moines punches above its weight. · The type of vacation Kruse takes depending on the time of year. · How a recent trip to Europe underscored the importance of unplugging. · The value of serving on the Government Performance and Accountability Committee.
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JofA podcast summer hiatus
08/01/2025
JofA podcast summer hiatus
The podcast is taking a break from full episode posting this week. Listen to previous episodes by visiting the , or find the show on the podcast app of your choice. Here’s a brief explanation from host Neil Amato about what’s to come on the show later in the summer.
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Summer surfing reminders to avoid a transformation wipeout
07/24/2025
Summer surfing reminders to avoid a transformation wipeout
“It feels like we were out at sea. We got washed overboard by a big wave and we’re floating around in life vests, and wave after wave of transformation is washing over us.” Those were the words of a corporate finance leader a few years back to Tom Hood, CPA/CITP, CGMA, executive vice president–Business Growth & Engagement for the Association of International Certified Professional Accountants. The feeling of being knocked back by seemingly nonstop changes in the business environment is a common one — so common that it’s a recurring theme for a group of finance leaders Hood formed about five years ago. In this episode, Hood explains more about the “learn to surf” mantra and the top challenges facing finance leaders today. In , he summarized the fourth Future of Finance Summit. What you’ll learn from this episode: · The best way to handle the “intense” waves of transformation. · How a philosopher’s words have helped Hood and colleagues work with hundreds of corporate finance teams on transformation. · Some of Hood’s favorite summer leisure activities. · The top challenges facing finance leaders. · His advice for creating more engaging LinkedIn posts. · A shout-out to a retiring colleague.
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Mitigate or exacerbate fraud risk? Culture’s critical role
07/15/2025
Mitigate or exacerbate fraud risk? Culture’s critical role
Carey Miller, CPA/CFF, is a co-author of this quarter’s FVS Eye on Fraud report, focused on the role of organizational culture in reducing fraud risk. Miller, a partner at the firm J.S. Held, joined the Journal of Accountancy podcast to discuss details in the report and share stories from her experience as a forensic accountant. The discussion delves into particulars of the quarterly report, including how strong culture can serve to minimize fraud risk, why middle managers are important in such culture, and indicators that a company’s culture is more likely to allow fraud. The first-quarter FVS Eye on Fraud report, focused on financial tracing, was detailed in . Resources FVS Section CFF credential for the second quarter of 2025 What you’ll learn from this episode: · The multiple business aspects affected by a company’s culture. · Why a weak or unethical corporate culture might permit employees to commit fraud. · Five drivers of high-performance culture. · The important role of middle managers in building or affirming organizational culture. · Three points of the fraud triangle. · How leaders can balance employee autonomy with a system of checks and balances that mitigates fraud risk. · Indicators of a fraud-prone culture.
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From Jamaican track star to CPA: A firm leader’s unlikely career path
07/09/2025
From Jamaican track star to CPA: A firm leader’s unlikely career path
Growing up, Durran Dunn, CPA, had drive and discipline, but he didn’t have any aspiration of using those qualities to become a CPA. He didn’t even know what a CPA was. Dunn, now a partner in Bennett Thrasher's Risk Advisory Services practice, based in greater Atlanta, overcame “whiplash” in the form of two moves – from Jamaica to New York, from New York to Mississippi – and now mentors students on the merits of the profession. In addition to sharing strategies for success, Dunn spoke about the high-profile-yet-anonymous role he had at a Major League Baseball stadium. He was a social media and , even though his identity was hidden by a full bodysuit. What you’ll learn from this episode: Dunn’s introduction to the accounting profession. The cultural whiplash he experienced, twice, upon leaving his native Jamaica. The running role Dunn performed for about seven years at a Major League Baseball stadium. Dunn’s path from not knowing what a CPA was to becoming a firm partner. Details of Dunn’s service on the AICPA’s Board of Examiners. Why he is passionate about volunteering and mentoring young accounting candidates. His emphasis on discipline – a message he shares with student groups.
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AICPA tax priorities and wins in the budget bill now with the House
07/02/2025
AICPA tax priorities and wins in the budget bill now with the House
Melanie Lauridsen, the AICPA’s vice president–Tax Policy & Advocacy, joined the JofA podcast early Wednesday to provide context on the fast-moving on Tuesday and is being discussed in the House today. Lauridsen detailed some tax-related priorities of the AICPA and state societies. She also explained the aspects of the Senate bill that are most likely to face opposition in the House. On a topic separate from the budget bill, Lauridsen summarized the key points of the national taxpayer advocate’s . In a May JofA episode, Lauridsen explained why were being prioritized by the AICPA. What you’ll learn from this episode: · The latest on the Senate version of the massive budget bill, H.R. 1, the One Big Beautiful Bill Act. · Lauridsen’s thoughts on the bill being approved by the House for the president’s signature by the July 4th holiday. · What tax-specific provisions from the Senate-approved version of the bill are most likely to be examined by the House. · Highlights of the national taxpayer advocate’s midyear report to Congress.
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Change for the better: How your attitude can make all the difference
06/26/2025
Change for the better: How your attitude can make all the difference
Instead of worrying about failure when undergoing a change initiative, why not ask, “What happens if we succeed?” That is summarized sentiment from a discussion with Al Dea, admittedly a glass-half-full guy, on the Journal of Accountancy podcast. Dea, a leadership development consultant and founder of the organization The Edge of Work, is the keynote speaker at the Aug. 12–14 Governmental Accounting and Auditing Update Conference. In this episode, Dea explores pain points for dealing with almost constant change, how the last five years have affected our ability to manage change, and more. The has an early-bird discount of $150 for attendees who register by Saturday. What you’ll learn from this episode: · Why humans tend to seek a “steady state.” · One exercise Dea recommends for professionals worried about what change might bring. · Why it sometimes may be impossible to have a playbook or manual for a change initiative. · The concept of being “sturdy” for others and how it can make a difference amid volatility. · Why it’s OK to not have all the answers for how to navigate change.
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JofA branded podcast: The evolving insurance market for high-net-worth clients
06/26/2025
JofA branded podcast: The evolving insurance market for high-net-worth clients
In this Journal of Accountancy branded podcast, hosted by Clint Costa, CPA, J.D., LL.M., a senior wealth strategist at Choreo, experts discuss how to help clients, especially high-net-worth ones, navigate growing and changing challenges in seeking proper insurance coverage.
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A trailblazing CPA on managing a merger and why it’s OK to lose clients
06/18/2025
A trailblazing CPA on managing a merger and why it’s OK to lose clients
Jody Grunden, CPA, stands out for more than his brightly colored Hawaiian shirts at accounting conferences and events. Grunden was one of the first firm leaders to embrace remote work, and he remains a proponent of it. His firm also was one of the first to offer outsourced CFO services. In this JofA podcast episode, Grunden reflects on his firm’s growth, explains how cultures can mesh during a merger, and predicts where the future lies for CPAs. Hint: It’s not in delivering financial statements to clients. In an earlier JofA interview, Grunden discussed not feeling fear and explained why Monday is his favorite day of the week. What you’ll learn from this episode: · The evolution of outsourced CFO service offerings. · Why Grunden says remote work “is the way to go.” · How off-site retreats helped grow postmerger culture. · What “remaining independent” means to Grunden. · The future of client advisory services. · Why a client’s “graduation” should be celebrated.
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A trailblazing CPA on managing a merger and why it’s OK to lose clients
06/18/2025
A trailblazing CPA on managing a merger and why it’s OK to lose clients
Jody Grunden, CPA, stands out for more than his brightly colored Hawaiian shirts at accounting conferences and events. Grunden was one of the first firm leaders to embrace remote work, and he remains a proponent of it. His firm also was one of the first to offer outsourced CFO services. In this JofA podcast episode, Grunden reflects on his firm’s growth, explains how cultures can mesh during a merger, and predicts where the future lies for CPAs. Hint: It’s not in delivering financial statements to clients. In an earlier JofA interview, Grunden discussed not feeling fear and explained why Monday is his favorite day of the week. What you’ll learn from this episode: · The evolution of outsourced CFO service offerings. · Why Grunden says remote work “is the way to go.” · How off-site retreats helped grow postmerger culture. · What “remaining independent” means to Grunden. · The future of client advisory services. · Why a client’s “graduation” should be celebrated.
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Accounting talent pipeline: What’s the buzz from ENGAGE?
06/12/2025
Accounting talent pipeline: What’s the buzz from ENGAGE?
One popular discussion topic at AICPA & CIMA ENGAGE 25 is the accounting talent pipeline. Liz Burkhalter, the AICPA’s director—CPA Pipeline, is taking part in those conversations. On this episode of the JofA podcast, Burkhalter shared encouraging news related to the pipeline and reminded CPAs of how using their “circle of influence” can help to grow the profession. Related resources: n National Pipeline Advisory Group (NPAG) n JofA article on n NPAG n This Way to CPA n Next Stop: CPA n AICPA Student What you’ll learn from this episode: · Two hot topics at ENGAGE related to accounting talent, according to Burkhalter. · The link between artificial intelligence and more attractive accounting opportunities · “Exciting” news related to student enrollment in accounting. · The reminder that established accountants can play a key role in helping address talent issues. · A summary of resources to assist members who want to get involved.
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Pessimism, tariff tremors prominent in CPA execs’ sentiment
06/05/2025
Pessimism, tariff tremors prominent in CPA execs’ sentiment
Sentiment about the U.S. economy and CPA decision-makers’ organizations continues to decline in 2025. Second-quarter results released Thursday by the AICPA and CIMA show a rising percentage of pessimists and more concern about the affects of tariffs. To analyze the results further, the JofA podcast welcomed back Ken Witt, CPA, CGMA, associate director–Management Accounting Research & Development. In last quarter’s Economic Outlook Survey, half of respondents were optimistic about their company’s outlook for the next year. , that percentage dropped to 37% — and it’s not the only area in which there is a decline. Related resources: n JofA article on . n The AICPA and CIMA’s . n The previous quarter’s with Witt. What you’ll learn from this episode: · The declines in domestic economic sentiment and own-company optimism. · Where optimism about the global economy stands. · Changes in the list of top challenges facing CPA decision-makers. · The “big topic” in this quarter’s survey. · An assessment of the impact of tariffs on respondents’ business planning. · A summary of respondents’ 12-month projections for revenue, profits, and spending.
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Seek first to understand: How a finance leader manages global teams
05/29/2025
Seek first to understand: How a finance leader manages global teams
Jennifer Reilly, CPA, CGMA, values listening. She enjoys the collaboration with fellow finance leaders as part of the Future of Finance Leadership Advisory Group, and she has made a habit of emphasizing listening in guiding teams from around the world. Reilly, scheduled to be part of at AICPA & CIMA ENGAGE 25, explains the importance of listening, developing through broad and niche roles, and more in this Journal of Accountancy podcast episode. What you’ll learn from this episode: · The value of collaboration with finance peers. · How finance’s expanded role changes the way finance professionals are evaluated. · A summary of Reilly’s “broad” and “niche” roles. · Strategies for better engagement with a globally dispersed team. · The benefits of a wide-ranging listening tour for Reilly in her current role. · One pillar of corporate culture that stood out to her from a Future of Finance Summit presentation.
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Why the PTET SALT deduction is the AICPA’s ‘No. 1 priority’
05/21/2025
Why the PTET SALT deduction is the AICPA’s ‘No. 1 priority’
It’s been a dizzying few months since Melanie Lauridsen, the AICPA’s vice president–Tax Policy & Advocacy, on the Journal of Accountancy podcast. In fact, just the past week has been chock full of tax-related developments, mainly in Washington. Reflecting the news, this episode is publishing the same day it was recorded. In the Wednesday morning conversation, Lauridsen details the AICPA perspective on several aspects of the budget bill that could be voted on soon by the full House of Representatives. She goes into detail about the passthrough entity tax/state and local tax deduction, also known as the PTET SALT deduction, and why . What you’ll learn from this episode: · The status of the House budget bill. · An explanation of the PTET SALT deduction — what it stands for, why it’s complex, and why it’s the AICPA’s “No. 1 priority.” · Some of the “wins” in Lauridsen’s mind related to Sec. 529 accounts and the Form 1099-K reporting threshold. · The top concern from a survey of members just after tax filing season. · What Lauridsen means by “fractures.”
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The ‘robot uprising’ and you: A CPA leader’s view on harnessing AI
05/15/2025
The ‘robot uprising’ and you: A CPA leader’s view on harnessing AI
This week’s episode is a mix of CPA-centric news and a Q&A with a leader in the profession. First is a summary of the House Ways and Means Committee’s , the to some of its provisions, and an update on . Danielle Supkis Cheek, CPA, is the guest on the main segment, discussing how accountants can avoid head-spinning dizziness when it comes to artificial intelligence (AI) — and why the profession is well suited for technology adoption. Supkis Cheek, senior vice president–AI, Analytics and Assurance at Caseware, also discusses how organizations can use AI to scale operations. Finally, citing a set of criteria from Digital CPA speaker — and JofA podcast guest — Alex Dorr, Supkis Cheek rates the she brings to the workplace. What you’ll learn from this episode: · A summary of top JofA news items from earlier this week. · Why conference speakers on AI topics have a hard time providing timely slides for sessions. · The importance of the evergreen nature of accounting standards. · Supkis Cheek’s explanation of professional skepticism’s role in harnessing AI. · Detailing the public expectation gap as it relates to audits and technology. · Why Supkis Cheek considers the AI era a curation age instead of a technology age.
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Professional liability Q&A: AI disclosure, retired-partner risk, and more
05/08/2025
Professional liability Q&A: AI disclosure, retired-partner risk, and more
Sarah Ference, CPA, an author of the JofA’s Professional Liability Spotlight column, returns to the JofA podcast to discuss recent column topics and the advice CPAs can gain from them. In the focused on Professional Liability Spotlight content, Ference detailed the January topic of . The articles discussed in this episode include: n February: “” n March: “” n April: “” In addition, Ference described the and several upcoming topics. What you’ll learn from this episode: · The importance of considering the client’s perspective related to disclosure of generative AI use. · An explanation of the concept of apparent authority. · Why guardrails are needed for retired partners who might still maintain an office at a firm. · How casual conversations with clients can expose a firm to risk. · A theme for upcoming Professional Liability Spotlight columns.
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The value of stay interviews; also, are business cards becoming extinct?
05/01/2025
The value of stay interviews; also, are business cards becoming extinct?
The latest Journal of Accountancy podcast episode is a wide-ranging conversation with two likely familiar names to listeners. April Walker, CPA, CGMA, AICPA & CIMA lead manager–Tax Practice & Ethics, and author John Garrett joined the show to discuss employee engagement in the hybrid and remote era, the importance of sharing and asking about hobbies, and why they are less likely these days to carry business cards to events such as conferences. Walker is the host of the and the . She has also been a host of tax-focused episodes on the JofA podcast. Garrett is a speaker, corporate consultant, and former Big Four accountant-turned-stand-up comedian. In previous episodes of the podcast, he has shared and explained why . What you’ll learn from this episode: · Reviewing the concept of “bringing your whole self to work.” · Why, in Garrett’s mind, employers should “value the worker as much as you value the work.” · Should you start a virtual team meeting with an icebreaker question? Why Walker says “yes.” · The speakers’ opinions on business cards. · Words that could create “stronger and deeper connections” on a business card. · Why we should “shine a light” on outside interests.
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Overcoming ‘the creep’ that puts our dreams and goals on hold
04/29/2025
Overcoming ‘the creep’ that puts our dreams and goals on hold
Author, speaker, and presidential pickup game basketball player Ben Nemtin makes a return visit to the Journal of Accountancy podcast. Four years after , he’s focused these days on the impact of purpose on longevity, well-being, and employee engagement. As the keynote speaker June 9 at , Nemtin will share about the road trip with friends he took nearly 20 years ago that spawned a book, a reality show, and the accomplishment of so many lofty goals. In this episode, Nemtin updates listeners on the status of his bucket list and explains why taking just 15 minutes to focus on one goal can be beneficial. Note: for ENGAGE ends Thursday. What you’ll learn from this episode: · A refresher on the concept of The Buried Life. · Nemtin’s focus on “energy-driven living.” · Addressing the notion that it’s selfish to focus on personal well-being. · The value of connecting to purpose – for individuals and organizations. · Three ways to maintain accountability when it comes to setting and reaching goals.
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An overlooked growth opportunity: Uncertainty
04/24/2025
An overlooked growth opportunity: Uncertainty
Very few people will be imprisoned the way Sam Goodwin was — for nine weeks in a harrowing situation six years ago. Goodwin says we can all be “held hostage” by any number of things and that our response to life’s challenges is what sets us apart. Goodwin, an author and tech startup founder, will deliver the keynote address June 16 at the in National Harbor, Md. Learn more about Goodwin’s message and story in the latest episode of the Journal of Accountancy podcast. What you’ll learn from this episode: · Goodwin’s “Winning Through Uncertainty” theme for the June keynote address. · The worldwide travel quest that landed him in a hostage situation in Syria. · Goodwin’s explanation about feeling a sense of “survivor’s responsibility.” · His work overseas in the technology and not-for-profit sectors. The reason Goodwin says “uncertainty is a horrible thing to waste.”
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The new CPA Exam: Year-one trends and tips for success
04/17/2025
The new CPA Exam: Year-one trends and tips for success
As the demands on modern CPAs change, so also does the CPA Exam. Updates in the design and focus of the CPA Exam have been in effect for about a year now, and two AICPA experts joined the Journal of Accountancy podcast to discuss the changes, address misconceptions, and offer reminders on best practices. Any preparation for the CPA Exam should include a look at , according to Joe Maslott, CPA, director–Examinations. Mike Decker, vice president–CPA Exam and Pipeline offers insights into the changes and reminds candidates that the CPA Exam should be respected but not feared. What you’ll learn from this episode: · Maslott’s review of why the CPA Exam was redesigned for the start of 2024. · Decker’s comments on misconceptions about the new exam. · The “relief valves” now offered for CPA candidates in exam timeframes. · Best practices and strategies for approaching the new sections of the exam. · Why pass rates are expected to rise.
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The uncomfortable work of leadership
04/10/2025
The uncomfortable work of leadership
Half a life ago, Michael Brody-Waite didn’t think he was going to make it to his 25th birthday. Today, he’s an author, entrepreneur, and leadership coach preparing to deliver the keynote address at the in May. In the address, he will share details of a leadership framework — using his experience as an addict in recovery as a backdrop. Three principles of the framework relate to authenticity, the ability to let go, and the importance of uncomfortable work. What you’ll learn from this episode: Why he says that most leaders are “addicted to doing.” The three principles of “addictive leadership.” The reasons, according to Brody-Waite, that those principles relate well to the accounting profession. Some of the excuses he made and others he blamed for his substance abuse. Why the advice “don’t be scared” should be avoided. The delegation lessons that can be taken from the principle of “surrendering the outcome.” Why uncomfortable work is different than hard work or difficult work. Brody-Waite’s message to conference attendees.
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Tax legislation, audit oversight, and other AICPA advocacy focus areas
04/03/2025
Tax legislation, audit oversight, and other AICPA advocacy focus areas
No matter who’s in charge, regulation, legislation, and education remain front and center when it comes to advocacy efforts in Washington, according to Mark Peterson, AICPA & CIMA executive vice president–Advocacy. Also important is understanding how to navigate a new administration’s priorities. In this episode of the Journal of Accountancy podcast, Peterson details some of the focus areas of the White House and Congress – tax legislation, an emphasis on government efficiency, and a change in regulatory approach. What you’ll learn from this episode: · Peterson’s overview of AICPA advocacy in Washington. · Why “navigate” is an important word for Peterson. · What has been normal and not normal in the change of presidential administrations. · Peterson’s assessment of the potential path for tax legislation. · The “very different environment” related to regulation of public companies. · Advice for members in dealing with D.C. uncertainty.
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Tips for driving change and driving out drama
03/27/2025
Tips for driving change and driving out drama
Alex Dorr speaks to audiences and organizations all over about and getting more productivity and engagement from employees and more overall value for companies. His session at Digital CPA in Denver in December 2024 focused on many of those same principles and was tailored to modern accounting firms. On the Journal of Accountancy podcast, Dorr, vice president at Reality-Based Leadership, explained more about how readiness for change can lead to a better work reality for employees and managers alike. What you’ll learn from this episode: · Dorr’s reflection on whether he was a “high-drama” college basketball player. · Why the examination of an employee’s or team’s value should include an assessment of “readiness for what’s next.” · The “juicy” question Dorr answered about speaking to accounting groups. · The importance of validating someone’s experience in the workplace before addressing ways to make it better.
/episode/index/show/jofacc/id/35890520
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JofA-branded podcast: Critical conversations about business transition planning
03/26/2025
JofA-branded podcast: Critical conversations about business transition planning
In this Journal of Accountancy-branded podcast, a senior wealth strategist and managing partner share advice on how to initiate conversations with business clients about transition and succession planning.
/episode/index/show/jofacc/id/35876365