Journal of Accountancy Podcast
The Journal of Accountancy podcast discusses the key issues facing the accounting profession.
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Awkward silence is OK — and other networking secrets
07/16/2026
Awkward silence is OK — and other networking secrets
Networking can feel uncomfortable for many of us, but meaningful connections often start with simple conversations and strong listening skills. Alex Romero, CPA, CGMA, the AICPA's director–CPA Pipeline, shares practical advice for , including the reminder that pauses are acceptable. Romero also highlights ways to stay present in conversations and one activity that she has found to be a networking boost. She also discusses the latest outlook for accounting talent, , and why the CPA credential remains a “great differentiator.” Other resources mentioned in the conversation include an with the AICPA’s Carl Mayes, CPA; the website , with numerous resources for students and educators; and information on the , which includes Romero as a scheduled speaker. What you’ll learn from this episode: The ways accounting professionals who are averse to networking can become effective at building relationships at conferences and other events. How active listening helps create deeper professional connections. Romero’s practical conversation starters and techniques. What recent accounting enrollment data suggests about the CPA talent pipeline.
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From estate planning to AI: Managing CPA liability
07/09/2026
From estate planning to AI: Managing CPA liability
Sarah Ference, CPA, a risk control director at CNA, returned to the Journal of Accountancy podcast to discuss recent topics of the JofA’s Professional Liability Spotlight column. The conversation covers three timely issues facing CPA firms: the Great Wealth Transfer, ethical decision-making when clients push boundaries, and the need for practical AI policies. The conversation also reflects on AICPA ENGAGE and the value of staying connected to developments in the profession. The articles discussed in the episode: May: “.” June: “.” July: “.” What you’ll learn from this episode: Why the Great Wealth Transfer is creating liability risks for CPAs in estate planning, tax filings, and other services. How CPAs can respond when clients want to skirt rules because they perceive regulatory oversight or enforcement to be weakening. Why accounting firms need an AI policy and key considerations when establishing guidelines for AI use in practice. Ference’s takeaways from AICPA ENGAGE last month.
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The AICPA’s CEO on trust, AI, and the profession’s future
07/02/2026
The AICPA’s CEO on trust, AI, and the profession’s future
AICPA President and CEO Mark Koziel, CPA, CGMA, reflects on his first 18 months in the role, discussing initiatives such as CPA Trust, the return of the print Journal of Accountancy, and the profession’s ongoing advocacy efforts. Speaking while at AICPA ENGAGE in Las Vegas, Koziel also shares insights on AI, upskilling, tax transformation, licensure mobility, and the role CPAs can play in a rapidly changing business environment. Koziel explains why he remains optimistic about the profession’s future despite ongoing disruption and uncertainty. He also tells the story of being asked long ago for an autograph. What you’ll learn from this episode: Why the CPA Trust campaign launched and particulars about the strategy for a commercial about the initiative. What Koziel meant when he said, “We are in the verification business.” What member feedback revealed about the need for upskilling and how the Profession Ready Initiative aims to address skills gaps. Why Koziel considers it valuable for members to have the return to printed issues. How AI could reshape tax compliance work and expand opportunities for advisory services. Why he says, “Train’s left the station,” when asked about changes in CPA licensure pathways. Koziel’s assertion that CPAs will continue to thrive amid technological disruption by serving as the “human in the lead.”
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Midyear advocacy update: STEM, BOI, taxes and licensure
06/25/2026
Midyear advocacy update: STEM, BOI, taxes and licensure
What advocacy issues should CPAs be watching with 2026 at its midpoint? The latest Journal of Accountancy podcast episode covers numerous topics with Mark Peterson, executive vice president–Advocacy for the Association of International Certified Professional Accountants, representing AICPA and CIMA. Peterson details efforts to include accounting in STEM education initiatives, what the future might hold for beneficial ownership information reporting requirements, and the profession's role in seeking guidance related to federal tax guidance. Peterson, speaking from AICPA ENGAGE earlier this month, also explains the vital role of state societies’ advocacy efforts. He touches on CPA licensure, the Fiscal State of the Nation Act, tariffs, and other policy developments that affect practitioners and their clients. Also, read in column form. What you’ll learn from this episode: Why the AICPA continues to push for accounting to be included in STEM education initiatives, and what progress advocates are making on Capitol Hill. What the future may hold for beneficial ownership information requirements after the pause in BOI reporting enforcement. The critical role that state CPA societies play in licensure modernization and advocacy efforts. Peterson’s perspective on how the AICPA is helping to get more clarity around implementation of major federal tax legislation. Why he says that implementation of the massive tax bill has been “lumpy.” Peterson’s reflection on the rise of Town Hall as a way to quickly get information and perspective to members. Ongoing and emerging policy issues — including tariffs, global mobility, and anti-money laundering efforts — that could affect the profession in the months ahead.
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Why mindset may matter more than technology adoption
06/18/2026
Why mindset may matter more than technology adoption
Recorded live at AICPA ENGAGE 2026, this episode of the JofA podcast explores the reasons that mindset and leadership may be even more important than technology adoption as finance and accounting professionals navigate an era of nonstop transformation. Joel Morris, a vice president at Wolters Kluwer, and Tom Hood, CPA/CITP, CGMA, executive vice president–Business Growth & Engagement at the AICPA, discuss what separates future-ready organizations from those struggling to keep pace, focuses on AI, workforce development, and strategic thinking. Morris and Hood also explore the human skills, trust, and risk management practices needed to help organizations adapt, innovate, and remain relevant in a rapidly changing profession. One key component mentioned in the conversation is the . What you’ll learn from this episode: How each speaker defines the “perpetual transformation state.” Why Hood says mindset—not technology—may be the biggest factor in future readiness. How Morris distinguishes organizations who are getting “ahead of the wave” from those that say they’re too busy to devote time to thinking about growth methodologies. What Morris and Hood see as the biggest barriers to successful AI adoption. The reasons that human skills are becoming more important, not less, in an AI-powered profession. How trust can help accountants and finance professionals navigate ongoing transformation and why Morris calls trust “that through-line into everything that you do.”
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How retaliation risk complicates fraud investigations
06/16/2026
How retaliation risk complicates fraud investigations
Retaliation — actual or perceived — can make fraud investigations more complex and less effective. In this episode of the Journal of Accountancy podcast, Fred Kohm, CPA/CFF, a partner at Grant Thornton, summarizes insights from the latest and explains how nuanced workplace dynamics can affect whistleblower cases. Kohm shares examples of subtle retaliation and explains how forensic accountants, auditors, and other professionals can recognize retaliation risks and strengthen investigative practices. “Whether you are a forensic accountant, an auditor, or perhaps a CPA in another role …, be aware that retaliation is real,” Kohm said. Editor’s note: The spring 2026 FVS Eye on Fraud report is available for download at the link above. It becomes exclusive to FVS Section members after July 10. What you’ll learn from this episode: Defining “retaliation” in the context of a whistleblower complaint and investigation. Why fear of retaliation can limit the information whistleblowers share. How retaliation can show up in subtle ways, from exclusion to heightened scrutiny. What makes retaliation a complex challenge for forensic accountants gathering evidence. The strategies that Kohm recommends to help organizations reduce retaliation risk. Why awareness and objectivity are critical when evaluating fraud allegations.
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The power of active listening in addressing the CPA skills gap
06/10/2026
The power of active listening in addressing the CPA skills gap
Recorded at ENGAGE in Las Vegas, this episode of the JofA podcast features Carl Mayes, CPA, the AICPA’s vice president–Ethics & Firm Quality, discussing the and the evolving skills employers expect from current and aspiring CPAs. Mayes shares insights from discussions with more than 1,000 members, including concerns about foundational accounting skills, communication abilities, and maintaining professional skepticism in an AI-driven environment. Mayes, who was also , reflects in this episode on the profession’s responsibility to prepare the next generation of CPAs and the energizing role events such as ENGAGE play in shaping new ideas across the profession. One other resource related to the conversation: the monthly series. What you’ll learn from this episode: An early-career lesson for Mayes that underscored CPAs serving as “gatekeepers for the capital markets.” What early stages of the Profession Ready Initiative have unearthed after conversations with more than 1,000 accounting professionals. Why communication skills, critical thinking, and skepticism are becoming more important in the age of AI. Why Mayes said, “Active listeners make better leaders.” How employers and educators are working to close competency gaps for CPAs. What ENGAGE means to accounting professionals looking for new ideas, stronger connections, and practical innovation.
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Aligning with AI: Lisa Simpson on how to overcome sense of overwhelm
06/04/2026
Aligning with AI: Lisa Simpson on how to overcome sense of overwhelm
Lisa Simpson, CPA, CGMA, vice president–Firm Services at the AICPA, discusses the evolution of AICPA Town Hall, key takeaways from Town Hall’s six years of programming, and how practitioners can navigate rapid change driven by AI. She shares insights on managing “a sense of overwhelm” related to AI and highlights resources that can help firms adapt, including the AICPA and CIMA . The episode also includes a segment on the latest and what they signal about business sentiment, inflation, and hiring. Other resources related to the topics: The CPA.com , which includes a vendor evaluation framework. The , which includes a registration button. The full for the second quarter. What you’ll learn from this episode: Lisa Simpson’s recap of topics at the recent PCPS Executive Committee meeting. How AICPA Town Hall has evolved to deliver news, analysis, and practice management insights. The common comment that Simpson jokingly says she gets about Town Hall. Why many CPAs feel a sense of overwhelm about AI and how to begin addressing it. Resources, including the AICPA AI hub and CPA.com tools, that can support firm decision-making. What recent Economic Outlook Survey results reveal about inflation concerns and hiring plans.
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What CPA.com’s CEO sees next for AI, tax, and the profession
05/28/2026
What CPA.com’s CEO sees next for AI, tax, and the profession
In this episode, Erik Asgeirsson of CPA.com looks back and looks ahead — to the next weeks and months and also to the future of AI in the accounting profession. Asgeirsson explains how AI’s acceleration in tax, audit, and client advisory services builds on lessons learned during the cloud computing transformation. He outlines where firms are seeing the biggest opportunities, why tax is emerging as a key area for innovation, and how new AI capabilities are reshaping workflows and insights. The conversation also covers practical steps for firms to get started with AI, along with the risks to manage and the long-term shift toward higher-value advisory services. Asgeirsson was one of the creators of AICPA back in spring of 2020. He talked about Town Hall’s guiding principles, which have shaped the show and resonate with its thousands of viewers today. Resources mentioned in the episode: CPA.com’s . AICPA ENGAGE . in December. What you’ll learn from this episode: How lessons from the rise of cloud computing and client advisory services can guide firms’ AI strategies. Why tax is emerging as a leading area for AI-driven transformation, from research to new preparation tools. What recent advances in AI models mean for CPAs, including stronger data analysis, automation, and integration into everyday tools. How small and midsize firms can get started with AI. Why embracing AI can lead to expansion for firms into higher-value advisory work, even as they manage risks such as data security and governance. Asgeirsson’s reflection on the growth of AICPA Town Hall from a pandemic-era resource to a high-production platform shaping firm strategy and responding directly to member questions. One JofA-related highlight that Asgeirsson is looking forward to at ENGAGE.
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Deregulation’s state of play and the threats it poses to CPA licensure
05/21/2026
Deregulation’s state of play and the threats it poses to CPA licensure
James Cox, an AICPA vice president, explains why efforts to weaken professional licensure are gaining traction in state legislatures. He discusses the role of the (ARPL) and the risks that deregulation could pose to CPAs and the public. The episode also highlights how organizations and professionals can stay informed and engaged as debates about professional licensing evolve. What you’ll learn from this episode: Why Cox says that “attacks” on CPA licensure have expanded to new fronts in recent years. How state budget pressures and political trends are fueling deregulation efforts. How weakening licensing standards could reduce trust in financial reporting and other services. What polling shows about public and business support for professional licensure. Cox’s recommendations to CPAs to stay vigilant and work with state societies.
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How CPAs can show their value on National Accounting Day
05/19/2026
How CPAs can show their value on National Accounting Day
Today is National Accounting Day. To mark the occasion, Sue Coffey, CPA, CGMA, the AICPA’s CEO–Public Accounting, joined the podcast for a special edition to discuss and maximizing the profession’s broader impact. She explains how the CPA Trust campaign aims to highlight the value CPAs bring to businesses, individuals, and communities. Coffey shares examples of trust in action, from financial reporting to tax planning and advisory support. Coffey also details what practitioners can expect from . What you’ll learn from this episode: The significance of National Accounting Day to Coffey. A preview of the AICPA’s CPA Trust campaign. Real-world examples of how trust in action is demonstrated by CPAs with clients and communities. Why CPAs are encouraged to share their impact publicly through social media. What makes ENGAGE a key event for learning, networking, and industry insights.
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Worrying about what’s next? Take a minute and focus on the present
05/14/2026
Worrying about what’s next? Take a minute and focus on the present
A conversation with leadership and workplace mental health expert Morra Aarons-Mele explores why focusing on the present can improve performance, reduce stress, and strengthen decision-making. Aarons-Mele is the keynote speaker June 15 at the in National Harbor, Md. Aarons-Mele, also an author and podcaster, explains how leaders in high-pressure roles can balance necessary forward planning with short, purposeful pauses, which can improve clarity and team dynamics. The discussion examines how organizations can apply mindfulness practices to build resilience and maintain focus in fast-moving environments. What you’ll learn from this episode: Why Aarons-Mele emphasizes a focus on the present. The practice that she says has been “the single most healing, restorative, renewing thing I've done.” Why the strategy of “take a minute and pause” can be effective during periods of disruption. What research says about the benefits of such pauses. Why Aarons-Mele warned against letting anxiety about the future drive decision-making. The effect that having “too many tabs open” can have on focus and performance at work.
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The Auditing Standards Board’s priorities for 2026 and beyond
05/07/2026
The Auditing Standards Board’s priorities for 2026 and beyond
Halie Creps, CPA, chair of the AICPA Auditing Standards Board, joined the JofA podcast to discuss the ASB’s refreshed and its focus on responsiveness, collaboration, and technology. She also explained why taking part in AICPA committees and boards is important to her and mentioned the link that members can visit to explore . Creps highlighted current projects, including , , confirmations, and . She also explained how practitioner feedback and international standard‑setting influence the board’s work. What you’ll learn from this episode: Why Creps said that serving on the Auditing Standards Board helps make her a better auditor. A mention of the numerous types of volunteer opportunities for members. How the ASB’s 2026–2030 strategic plan reflects stakeholder feedback. What proposed changes to attestation standards could mean for practitioners. How sustainability assurance fits into the ASB’s broader standards framework. The status of and comment deadlines for exposure drafts on confirmations and fraud. How technology and global collaboration are shaping future audit standards.
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The risks of quick‑turn SOC engagements and what CPAs should know
04/30/2026
The risks of quick‑turn SOC engagements and what CPAs should know
System and Organization Controls (SOC) reports are examinations performed by CPAs in accordance with the AICPA’s Statements on Standards for Attestation Engagements to evaluate the controls over customer data that service organizations such as cloud providers or payroll processors have in place. SOC reports provide independent assurance to the service organization’s customers, aka user entities, that those controls are suitably designed and operating effectively. The entrance of technology vendors into the realm of SOC reporting has created some efficiencies, but it also has led to that have raised credibility concerns in the marketplace. In this episode of the Journal of Accountancy podcast, Amy Pawlicki, the AICPA’s vice president–Assurance & Advisory Innovation, discusses recent developments affecting SOC engagements. The conversation also highlights what CPAs, service organizations, and report users should watch for to protect trust in SOC reporting. Other resources mentioned in the episode include: A JofA article on related to SOC tool providers. The AICPA’s . . What you’ll learn from this episode: What SOC reporting is — and why a SOC 2 report is not a certification. How a technology trend is threatening SOC credibility. The ethical risks related to SOC reporting tool vendors. The peer review and the AICPA Code of Professional Conduct requirements for CPAs performing SOC work. Where to find AICPA resources for firms, service organizations, and users.
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How to start a CPA practice: Lessons from a firm founder and a risk expert
04/23/2026
How to start a CPA practice: Lessons from a firm founder and a risk expert
Starting a CPA firm can be both exciting and daunting, with financial, operational, and personal risks along the way. In this Journal of Accountancy podcast episode, Michael Meihaus, CPA, founder of Meihaus CPA, shares what he learned after launching his practice. Alvin Fennell, vice president and senior risk adviser at Aon, adds a risk-management perspective on what new firm owners must plan for from day one. Together, they discuss practical steps, common blind spots, and how CPAs can balance growth with protection. They reference an . The e-book’s first chapter is unlocked, and readers can access subsequent chapters by supplying their email address. What you’ll learn from this episode: The market opportunity that was one factor in a CPA deciding to launch a firm. What Meihaus meant when he said “your strengths and weaknesses are enhanced” as a firm owner. Some of the many business questions new firm owners should answer early. Why starting a firm can, according to Fennell, put CPAs in “a vulnerable spot.” Risk-management considerations, including billing practices, engagement letters, and insurance coverage.
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A Machu Picchu moment and what it means for aging and retirement
04/16/2026
A Machu Picchu moment and what it means for aging and retirement
Younger generations are rethinking retirement — considering more flexibility and well-timed breaks over a traditional model of holding a job until a certain age and then stopping work. Kelley Long, CPA/PFS, joined the Journal of Accountancy podcast to discuss how modern financial planning is changing. She also explains how health savings accounts can support career flexibility and reduce reliance on employer‑sponsored health insurance later in life. Long will explore these topics further in June at , the profession’s biggest conference. She is presenting sessions and on on June 10 in Las Vegas. What you’ll learn from this episode: A preview of Kelley Long’s ENGAGE sessions and a related JofA article. The factors that are leading younger generations to approach retirement differently. How “mini‑retirements” can fit into long‑term career and financial planning. How Long’s trip to South America crystallized her views on timing and retirement. The role of social connections in cognitive health. Some ways that health savings accounts can support career changes or time off. How potentially being overinsured can affect financial planning.
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What small firms are getting right about tech and why they're not alone
04/08/2026
What small firms are getting right about tech and why they're not alone
Small CPA firms play a critical role in the accounting profession, and new tools are helping them compete, innovate, and grow. In this episode of the JofA podcast, Stephanie Otero, CPA, the AICPA’s vice president–Small Firm Advocate, discusses why small firms matter, how AI and automation are leveling the playing field, and where innovation thrives in smaller practices. She references real-world examples and previews the PCPS , a free, CPE-eligible webcast series for AICPA members. The conversation also looks ahead to in Las Vegas and the ways AICPA resources and communities help small firm practitioners realize they do not have to go it alone. Related resources: Private Companies Practice Section . for small firms. Transforming Your Business Model . April 20 . Article on small firms’ . What you’ll learn from this episode: The importance of small CPA firms to the profession and why Otero is passionate about advocating for such firms. How AI and automation can help small firms compete with larger organizations. Practical examples of practitioners using technology to build capacity. AICPA resources can help small firm leaders connect and grow.
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Liability lessons on documentation, high-profile clients, CAS engagement letters
04/02/2026
Liability lessons on documentation, high-profile clients, CAS engagement letters
Sarah Ference, CPA, a risk control director at CNA, joins the Journal of Accountancy podcast to discuss recent topics of the JofA’s Professional Liability Spotlight column. The conversation covers lessons learned from claims involving bankrupt clients, the importance of strong and consistent documentation, and the particular risks associated with serving high-net-worth or high-profile clients. The episode also highlights the April column on writing effective engagement letters for client advisory services. The articles discussed in the episode: January: “.” February: “.” March: “.” April: “.” What you’ll learn from this episode: The reasons CPA firms can be drawn into litigation when clients face bankruptcy. How strong client acceptance and continuance practices can help firms identify and manage higher‑risk engagements before problems arise. Why documentation acts as a firm’s voice in a professional liability claim — and how gaps or inconsistencies can weaken defense of a claim. Why Ference has been told that “celebrities and CPA firms don't mix.” What makes high‑net‑worth and celebrity clients higher risk and why firms should avoid relaxing standard risk management protocols for them. Why for engagement letters related to CAS, Ference said: “The devil is really in the details of that engagement letter.”
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The surprising way one CFO grows her network and her knowledge
03/26/2026
The surprising way one CFO grows her network and her knowledge
Wassia Kamon, CPA, returned as a guest on the Journal of Accountancy podcast to preview her sessions at the and . Kamon also discussed the growing expectations placed on today’s CFOs and how those expectations helped shape one of her conference sessions. Kamon also reflected on how launching her podcast, , has expanded her network and grown her knowledge. What you’ll learn from this episode: Kamon’s summary of her session with Paul Young at the CFO Conference in April. Why she says her podcast “is almost like a business card.” The importance of a true reset and how a reset is different from rest. What she’s most looking forward to at ENGAGE in June. Why sessions related to artificial intelligence will be particularly relevant this year.
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Ancient Greece to AI: The past and future of bank fraud
03/19/2026
Ancient Greece to AI: The past and future of bank fraud
David Stone, CPA, CFE, MBA, is the author of the most recent FVS . In this episode, Stone, senior manager–Financial Services Practice Group at BerryDunn, shares insights from the report, which focuses on internal and external fraud risks facing financial institutions. Stone explains how long‑standing schemes — from misuse of dormant accounts to persistent check‑fraud activity — continue to evolve even as institutions strengthen their controls. Stone, a graduate of the AICPA Leadership Academy, also describes emerging, technology‑driven threats such as deepfakes, more sophisticated ransomware, and the potential impact of quantum computing on systems once considered secure. Previous Eye on Fraud-focused episodes: What you’ll learn from this episode: David Stone’s explanation of perhaps the first recorded case of bank fraud. Defining internal and external fraud, both of which are focus areas in the March Eye on Fraud report. Why dormant accounts offer opportunities for fraudsters. The fraud stat that “astounded” Stone. How deepfakes and enhanced ransomware tactics are reshaping the threat landscape for financial institutions. What quantum computing could mean for the future of fraud prevention.
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Tax advocacy: AICPA experts on new bills shaping tax preparer rules
03/12/2026
Tax advocacy: AICPA experts on new bills shaping tax preparer rules
Two AICPA tax experts from the Washington, D.C., office joined the JofA podcast to discuss a recent on paid tax return preparers and why its findings matter during a busy filing season. Melanie Lauridsen, vice president–Tax Policy & Advocacy, and Todd Sloves, director–Congressional & Political Affairs, break down bipartisan legislation in Congress — including the TAS Act — and explain how . The conversation also highlights the SAFE Act and its aim to simplify the task of filing extensions for taxpayers and practitioners. The Q&A also outlines where broad consensus exists in the tax community and why this moment could be pivotal for long‑awaited tax administration reforms. What you’ll learn from this episode: What the statistics in a GAO report on paid tax return preparers show. How minimum professional standards could strengthen IRS oversight, and why the AICPA supports establishing competency and regulatory guardrails for all preparers. Provisions in the TAS Act recently introduced in the Senate, including reforms shaped by bipartisan work and those aimed at improving taxpayer service. Lauridsen’s explanation of how the SAFE Act would simplify filing extensions, reducing the need for complex estimates. A reminder of the particulars of the “mailbox rule.” The factors Sloves cites in his belief that the discussed legislation has a path to passage.
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Summing up economic sentiment and concerns about inflation, recession
03/05/2026
Summing up economic sentiment and concerns about inflation, recession
Optimism among U.S. CPA decision-makers in February improved when compared with the outlook in November, but . That’s one conversation topic in the latest Journal of Accountancy podcast episode. In the episode, Ken Witt, CPA, CGMA, associate director–Management Accounting Research & Development for the AICPA and CIMA, break down the sentiment about the domestic economy, the global economy, and respondents’ companies. The discussion also touches on top challenges, hiring plans, and recession expectations. What you’ll learn from this episode: The increase in own‑company optimism from the previous quarter. The reasons that both optimists and pessimists cite for their views. The “dance” that inflation and domestic economic conditions have done on the survey’s list of top challenges. Projected revenue and profit growth in the coming 12 months.
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Talent shuffle: Why people want to change jobs and how leaders can adapt
02/26/2026
Talent shuffle: Why people want to change jobs and how leaders can adapt
At several points over the past six years, employee retention has ebbed and flowed. In part, workforce trends have been tied to the COVID-19 pandemic hastening the predominance of remote and hybrid work. And, more recently, economic uncertainty has contributed to employee sentiment. On this episode of the Journal of Accountancy podcast, two Robert Half executives discuss general hiring trends and the outlook for accounting and finance roles. Additionally, they examine the dynamics of promoting from within versus hiring externally. And, in case you missed it, news dropped on publication day that even a Hollywood director might have found interesting: were announced. What you’ll learn from this episode: Why nearly 40% of employees say they plan to look for a new job in 2026 and how that compares with recent trends such as “the big stay.” Some of the factors employees are considering in their decision to find work elsewhere. Steve Saah’s reminder that the demand for accounting and finance professionals remains strong even as hiring managers say it’s becoming more challenging to find skilled candidates. Kathy Burton’s explanation for why companies should move away from thinking about “diminishing” skillsets. The importance of upskilling and reskilling and why “courageous curiosity” is a valued trait.
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Inside the AICPA’s effort to enhance the skills of early-career CPAs
02/19/2026
Inside the AICPA’s effort to enhance the skills of early-career CPAs
, the AICPA launched its . In this episode of the JofA podcast, Carl Mayes, CPA, the AICPA’s vice president–CPA Candidate Quality and Competency, explained more about the initiative and why a rapidly changing workplace demands new skills from emerging and early-career CPAs. He discussed how automation, AI, and offshoring are reshaping entry-level work — and how research is informing the initiative. Listeners will learn how to get involved, what’s planned for ENGAGE, and how the effort benefits both early-career professionals and experienced CPAs. What you’ll learn from this episode: Why the AICPA launched the Profession Ready Initiative. How Rise2040 research informed the approach to improving entry-level CPA skills. The ways automation, AI, and offshoring are reshaping the first years of CPA careers — and what new competencies employers say they need as a result. The initiative’s multifaceted approach, including research, new learning solutions, academic collaboration, and state-level engagement. Ways that CPAs, educators, and firms can participate. How the effort will benefit both early-career professionals and experienced CPAs.
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Lessons in internal control lapses from major fraud cases
02/11/2026
Lessons in internal control lapses from major fraud cases
Tammy Thomas, CPA/CFF, CGMA, is a co-author of the most recent FVS Eye on Fraud report, focused on the importance of . In this episode, Thomas breaks down how failures in segregation of duties allowed two major embezzlement schemes to persist for years. She explains how small control gaps and role consolidation can quietly erode an organization’s defenses. Thomas also outlines how deadline pressure and resource constraints can unintentionally weaken internal control environments. Also, hear the previous , about the role of company culture, from July 2025. What you’ll learn from this episode: A definition of internal controls and why they function best as a dynamic, ongoing process. How weak internal controls and poor segregation of duties can create openings for employee embezzlement. Why deadline pressure around the month‑end or year‑end close can weaken internal control effectiveness. Practical steps organizations can take to strengthen internal controls, improve oversight, and reduce fraud risk. Why Thomas said it was important to remember that “internal control is not a checklist.”
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Differentiating agentic and generative AI — and more with a Tech Q&A author
02/05/2026
Differentiating agentic and generative AI — and more with a Tech Q&A author
In this episode, Wesley Hartman, co‑author of the Journal of Accountancy’s Technology Q&A column, discusses how AI is reshaping work for accounting firms. He explains the difference between generative and agentic AI and why both matter for firm workflows. Hartman also outlines the most pressing AI risks for CPAs, including hallucinations and emerging deepfake‑driven scams, which . He closes the conversation with practical guidance for adopting AI tools methodically while avoiding common pitfalls. Also, here are a few Technology Q&A columns related to the discussion: “,” May 1, 2025 “,” Oct. 1, 2025 “,” Nov. 1, 2025 What you’ll learn from this episode: The ways Hartman uses AI in his own work. The difference between agentic and generative AI. Why “confidently wrong” AI responses can present risks for firms. How inaction or “wait‑and‑see” thinking can create its own form of AI risk.
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Why stablecoin controls create a solid foundation in an evolving environment
01/29/2026
Why stablecoin controls create a solid foundation in an evolving environment
A new episode of the JofA podcast breaks down the AICPA’s updated criteria for stablecoin controls, explaining what issuers and practitioners need to know as regulatory expectations evolve. This episode explores how revised AICPA stablecoin criteria support more consistent reporting, disclosure, and control assessments across a rapidly developing digital asset landscape. What you’ll learn from this episode: Why the AICPA developed updated criteria for stablecoin controls and how they complement existing presentation and disclosure criteria. How the criteria help issuers and auditors evaluate controls over tokens in circulation and the related reserve assets. How the guidance aligns with regulation, including federal guidelines in the GENIUS Act. Who can use the criteria and how practitioners can apply them in assurance engagements involving stablecoins. What work the AICPA Attestation Subgroup is planning for digital asset-related controls and auditing guidance.
/episode/index/show/jofacc/id/39928175
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Accountability the ‘No. 1 thing’ and other reflections from Bill Reeb
01/22/2026
Accountability the ‘No. 1 thing’ and other reflections from Bill Reeb
In this episode, former AICPA Chair Bill Reeb, CPA/CITP, CGMA, reflects on more than 40 years in the profession and why he believes accountability is the starting point for a successful leadership effort. Reeb, speaking from the Digital CPA Conference in December, discusses how momentum, clarity of direction, and facing fear help leaders navigate today’s rapid pace of change. He also addresses technological shifts including the rise of artificial intelligence and explains why a book he wrote about succession planning was not predominantly about succession. What you’ll learn from this episode: Reeb’s view of CPAs’ unlimited career possibilities. What he and his wife learned on a shopping trip about 40 years ago. Why momentum, facing fear, and embracing change are essential elements of strong leadership. How accountability supports effective change management and keeps teams aligned on strategy. How rapid technological shifts have created higher standards but not necessarily time savings. Why the answer to “What is Bill Reeb’s succession plan?” is complicated.
/episode/index/show/jofacc/id/39827375
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Tom Hood on AI, hybrid work, and other 2026 themes shaping accounting
01/15/2026
Tom Hood on AI, hybrid work, and other 2026 themes shaping accounting
On this episode of the JofA podcast, an AICPA executive and regular guest discussed trends from discussions with numerous finance professionals, delving into how AI and hybrid work might affect accounting this year and beyond. “Now we're going to be talking about managing AI agents in finance and accounting,” Tom Hood, CPA/CITP, CGMA, said. “That's going to be a whole different world, and it's going to be exponential in what we can do with it.” Hood, the AICPA’s executive vice president–Business Engagement and Growth, also explained why CFOs are cautiously optimistic about growth and how the is helping the profession prepare for long-term change. What you’ll learn from this episode: How AI is shifting from simple productivity tools to powerful finance agents — and what that means for accounting professionals. Practical strategies for making hybrid work more effective, including purposeful in-office collaboration. Why CFOs and finance leaders are cautiously optimistic about growth in 2026 despite economic uncertainty. How anticipatory thinking and hard-trend analysis can help accountants prepare for long-term change and disruption. Why trust and integrity remain core accounting values.
/episode/index/show/jofacc/id/39748915
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Getting unstuck by rethinking processes, people, and AI
01/08/2026
Getting unstuck by rethinking processes, people, and AI
Samantha Bowling, CPA, CGMA, managing partner of GWCPA, shares how her firm eliminated busy season, limited hours, and improved morale while still meeting client needs. She also explained how thoughtful use of AI can support advisory services, boost efficiency, and help small firms get “unstuck.” This episode of the JofA podcast was recorded at Digital CPA in National Harbor, Md., in December 2025. What you’ll learn from this episode: The steps Bowling’s firm took to eliminate traditional busy season. How productivity and morale were affected by limiting hours and weekend work. The value the firm has found in “Foresight Fridays.” Practical ways AI tools can speed tax research while managing regulatory concerns. How custom AI bots can support internal efficiency. Why clearer communication and accountability helped the firm solve problems it didn’t know it had.
/episode/index/show/jofacc/id/39664950