Building the Premier Accounting Firm

A show dedicated to helping accounting professionals confidently and competently offer quality accounting services to get paid what they are worth. Each episode is conversational with tips and tricks to help you apply the principles of M.A.P. as they relate to starting and building a successful accounting business. Topics include Marketing, Lead Generation, Ideal Clients, Pricing, Price Strategies, Accounting Services, Value Added Services, Workflow, Practice Management, Staff Training, Client On-boarding, Client Relations & Retention, etc. This podcast will help you become an Accountrepreneur, to work ON your business with advice from the experts.

Build A Standout Accounting Brand w/ Mike Jones 10/13/2026

Build A Standout Accounting Brand w/ Mike Jones In today’s episode of Building the Premier Accounting Firm, Roger Knecht and award winning marketing consultant Mike Jones discuss branding strategies for accounting firms. Discover why identity matters more than just a logo and how to stand out in the accounting industry. In This Episode: 00:00:00 Introduction and Why Branding Matters 00:07:12 Defining Identity and First Impressions 00:15:05 Consistency, Fonts, and Common Mistakes 00:22:00 Social Media, Video, and Audience Targeting 00:30:06 Firm Naming Strategies and Final Advice Key Takeaways: Define your firm’s unique identity beyond standard visual elements. Maintain strict visual and messaging consistency across all platforms. Target a specific audience to make your marketing much more effective. Evaluate your firm’s name and branding to build better differentiation. Featured Quotes: “Mike Jones: Your brand is your identity. It is who you are.” “Mike Jones: Just because it’s common doesn’t mean it’s best.” Earn CPE: NASBA-approved CPE and IRS-approved CE credits are offered via Earmark by listening to this episode. ⁠ Access our QAS Self-Study Courses here: Conclusion: Thank you for joining us for another episode of Building the Premier Accounting Firm with Roger Knecht. For more information on how you can establish your own accounting firm and take control of your time and income, call 435-344-2060 or schedule an appointment to connect with Roger’s team Sponsors: Helping accounting professionals confidently and competently offer quality accounting services to get paid what they are worth. Offers: The Remarkabrand Index for Accounting Firms - Special Offers for our Podcast Listeners: to take advantage of them today! Are you ready for a change, both personally and professionally? Then accept and participate in the . This is a FREE opportunity to apply best practices and make this the best year yet in your career. Be sure to join us for , the LIVE event for accounting professionals to work ON their business. This conference is one you don’t want to miss. Get a FREE copy of these books all accounting professionals should use to work on their business and become profitable. These are a must-have addition to every accountant’s library to provide quality CFO & Advisory services as a today: - Understand the 3 Core Accounting Services (CAS - Client Accounting Services) you should offer as you run your business. “” - Offer CFO & Advisory services with confidence and competence. Take the time to understand what your clients expect from you as their accountant. Follow the . This is the proven process to start and build the premier accounting firm in your area. After more than 40 years we’ve identified the best practices of successful accountants and this is a presentation we are happy to share. Also learn the best practices to automate and nurture your lead generation process allowing you to get the bookkeeping, accounting and tax clients you deserve. to see this presentation and learn what you can do today to identify and engage with your ideal clients. Check it out and see what you can do to be in business for yourself but not by yourself with Universal Accounting Center. It’s here you can become a: Next, join a group of like-minded professionals within the accounting community. Register to attend and Stay up-to-date on current topics and trends and see what you can do to also give back, participating in relevant conversations as they relate to offering quality accounting services and building your bookkeeping, accounting & tax business. Topical Newsletters: Lastly, get your to see what you can do to work ON your business and have the Premier Accounting Firm. Join over 70,000 business owners and get your score on the 8 Factors That Drive Your Company’s Value. For Additional FREE Resources for accounting professionals, Be sure to join us for , the LIVE event for accounting professionals to work ON their business. This is a conference you don’t want to miss. Remember this, . Listen to our next episode and be sure to . Also, let us know what you think of the podcast and please share any suggestions you may have. We look forward to your input: For more information on how you can apply these principles to start and build your accounting, bookkeeping & tax business please visit us at or call us at 8012653777 /episode/index/show/premieraccountingfirmuac/id/43292894

Why Early Adopters of AI in Accounting Are Already Falling Behind 10/07/2026

Why Early Adopters of AI in Accounting Are Already Falling Behind Welcome to another episode of Building the Premier Accounting Firm. Today, Roger Knecht explores how artificial intelligence impacts the accounting profession today. Discover practical strategies to adopt AI, protect client data, and maintain essential human skills. In This Episode: 00:00:00 AI in Accounting: Moving Past Early Adoption 00:04:41 Fight, Flight, or Freeze in the AI Era 00:08:33 Remaining the Human in the Loop 00:14:24 Four Practical Steps to Leverage AI Daily 022:17 Overcoming Catastrophism and Staying Relevant 027:36 Preserving Core Accounting Skills and Education Key Takeaways: Adopt AI tools now because early adopter phases are long gone. Protect client data by utilizing built-in security settings within platforms. Learn the vocabulary of AI to discuss technology intelligently with clients. Replace traditional search engines with AI conversation and voice features. Maintain core accounting skills to remain the essential human in the loop. Featured Quotes: “The time for early adopters, that was months ago. What we’re dealing with now is, we as average users are jumping in and taking advantage of this.” - Roger Knecht “We as a professional need to remain as the human in the loop.” - Roger Knecht “Don’t become lazy… that is the downfall of where we’re going to be as a species if we do not retain our skill sets.” - Roger Knecht Earn CPE: NASBA-approved CPE and IRS-approved CE credits are offered via Earmark by listening to this episode. ⁠ Access our QAS Self-Study Courses here: Thank you for joining us for another episode of Building the Premier Accounting Firm with Roger Knecht. For more information on how you can establish your own accounting firm and take control of your time and income, call 435-344-2060 or schedule an appointment to connect with Roger’s team Sponsors: Helping accounting professionals confidently and competently offer quality accounting services to get paid what they are worth. Offers: Special Offers for our Podcast Listeners, to take advantage of them today! Remember this: . Be sure to listen to our next episode and . Also, let us know what you think of the podcast and please share any suggestions you may have. We look forward to your input: For more information on how you can apply these principles to start and build your bookkeeping, accounting, & tax business, please visit us at or call us at 801-265-3777. And know that if it’s about accounting, it’s Universal. /episode/index/show/premieraccountingfirmuac/id/43202043

Fix Messy Books and Grow Advisory Engagements w/ Nancy Benet 09/30/2026

Fix Messy Books and Grow Advisory Engagements w/ Nancy Benet Thank you for joining us for another episode of Building the Premier Accounting Firm. Today, host Roger Knecht and Founder and CEO of Fix-It Accounting Nancy Benet discuss how to scale accounting firms beyond compliance work into advisory services and franchise models. Discover proven steps to overcome business fears, build strategic partnerships, and create clear financial systems. In This Episode: 00:00:00 Introduction and Overcoming Early Business Failure 00:05:25 Transitioning from Solopreneur to Business Owner 00:11:09 Adding Advisory Services and Strategic Partnerships 00:17:39 Specializing in the Franchise Business Model 00:25:03 Franchising Fixit Accounting and Family Legacy 00:35:09 The Future of Accounting and AI Key Takeaways: Niche down early to make marketing much simpler and attract the right clients. Partner with other professionals to offer fractional CFO services without needing all the skills yourself. Delegate administrative tasks first by hiring assistants to free up time for core client work. Focus on forward-thinking advisory metrics to help clients plan for future profitability. Featured Quotes: “We’re taught to do everything ourselves. And so to bring somebody in, it’s really scary.” - Nancy Benet “If we can expand our awareness and our ability to think outside the box, it opens new doors.” - Nancy Benet Earn CPE: NASBA-approved CPE and IRS-approved CE credits are offered via Earmark by listening to this episode. ⁠ Access our QAS Self-Study Courses here: Conclusion: Thank you for joining us for another episode of Building the Premier Accounting Firm with Roger Knecht. For more information on how you can establish your own accounting firm and take control of your time and income, call 435-344-2060 or schedule an appointment to connect with Roger’s team Sponsors: Helping accounting professionals confidently and competently offer quality accounting services to get paid what they are worth. Offers: Success Your Way: Build stronger awareness and structure as you grow your business. Get the free 5 Actions to Instantly Change Your Mindset download here: Special Offers for our Podcast Listeners: to take advantage of them today! Remember this: . Be sure to listen to our next episode and . Also, let us know what you think of the podcast and please share any suggestions you may have. We look forward to your input: For more information on how you can apply these principles to start and build your bookkeeping, accounting, & tax business, please visit us at or call us at 801-265-3777. And know that if it’s about accounting, it’s Universal. /episode/index/show/premieraccountingfirmuac/id/43082623

This Week on BPAF : Nancy Benet 09/28/2026

Attract High-End Clients as an Advisor w/ Ann Carden 09/23/2026

Attract High-End Clients as an Advisor w/ Ann Carden Welcome to another episode of Building the Premier Accounting Firm. Today Roger Knecht welcomes Ann Carden to discuss how accounting professionals can stop trading time for money and elevate their practices. Discover strategies to attract high-end clients, position yourself in a category of one, and package high-value advisory services. In This Episode: 00:00:00 Unlocking Hidden Potential in Your Business 00:05:35 Elevating Client Acquisition and Positioning 00:10:10 The Power of Exclusivity and Qualification 00:20:45 Moving Beyond Commodities and Hourly Pricing 00:28:45 Building a Premier Accounting Firm Key Takeaways: Elevate your accounting practice by targeting top-tier clients rather than relying on high-volume funnels. Position your firm as a category of one so buyers pre-sell themselves before the first meeting. Implement high-end strategic advisory packages instead of sticking to hourly billing or minor price bumps. Qualify prospective clients to ensure mutual respect and higher project investment. Featured Quotes: “Visibility is not revenue. Don’t confuse that.” - Ann Carden “You have to be in a category of one. You have to stand out in a category of one.” - Ann Carden Earn CPE: NASBA-approved CPE and IRS-approved CE credits are offered via Earmark by listening to this episode. ⁠ Access our QAS Self-Study Courses here: Conclusion: Thank you for joining us for another episode of Building the Premier Accounting Firm with Roger Knecht. For more information on how you can establish your own accounting firm and take control of your time and income, call 435-344-2060 or schedule an appointment to connect with Roger’s team Sponsors: It’s time to grow your capacity, not your headcount. Visit to get started today, and when you take a demo, you'll receive a $250 gift card. Terms apply. Helping accounting professionals confidently and competently offer quality accounting services to get paid what they are worth. Offers: Special Offers for our Podcast Listeners, to take advantage of them today! Remember this: . Be sure to listen to our next episode and . Also, let us know what you think of the podcast and please share any suggestions you may have. We look forward to your input: For more information on how you can apply these principles to start and build your bookkeeping, accounting, & tax business, please visit us at or call us at 801-265-3777. And know that if it’s about accounting, it’s Universal. /episode/index/show/premieraccountingfirmuac/id/43012428

This Week on BPAF : Ann Carden 09/21/2026

Beyond Compliance: Scaling High-Impact CFO Services 09/16/2026

Beyond Compliance: Scaling High-Impact CFO Services Welcome to another episode of Building the Premier Accounting Firm. Today, Roger Knecht and The CFO Project CEO Dyanna Salcedo discuss how accounting professionals can pivot from traditional compliance work to high-impact CFO advisory services. This episode explores the impact of AI and offshoring on the accounting industry and provides a clear framework for building a scalable, profitable advisory practice. In This Episode: 00:00:00 Introduction to Expert Insights 00:01:38 Defining Accounting vs. Advisory Roles 00:06:42 Scalable CFO Advisory Models 00:13:47 Structuring Successful Client Engagements 00:22:08 Overcoming Barriers to Advisory Services 00:28:44 The Role of AI in Accounting 00:35:05 Closing Thoughts and Future Opportunities Key Takeaways: Define the role of a CFO advisor as a forward-looking guide for small business owners rather than a historical reporter. Leverage AI as a powerful tool for efficiency while maintaining a human-in-the-lead approach for judgment and accountability. Focus on cash flow drivers to provide tangible, high-value results that justify premium pricing. Featured Quotes: “Your job is to illuminate where the client should focus. They will have the answers of how to actually affect that driver.” — Dyanna Salcedo “We call it human in the lead. You want to stay in the lead, making sure that you’re verifying everything.” — Dyanna Salcedo “AI cannot certify financials. AI cannot submit a tax return and sign off on that return as the preparer.” — Roger Knecht Earn CPE: NASBA-approved CPE and IRS-approved CE credits are offered via Earmark by listening to this episode. ⁠ Access our QAS Self-Study Courses here: Conclusion: Thank you for joining us for another episode of Building the Premier Accounting Firm with Roger Knecht. For more information on how you can establish your own accounting firm and take control of your time and income, call 435-344-2060 or schedule an appointment to connect with Roger’s team Sponsors: It’s time to grow your capacity, not your headcount. Visit to get started today, and when you take a demo, you'll receive a $250 gift card. Terms apply. Helping accounting professionals confidently and competently offer quality accounting services to get paid what they are worth. Offers: Special Offers for our Podcast Listeners, to take advantage of them today! Remember this: . Be sure to listen to our next episode and . Also, let us know what you think of the podcast and please share any suggestions you may have. We look forward to your input: For more information on how you can apply these principles to start and build your bookkeeping, accounting, & tax business, please visit us at or call us at 801-265-3777. And know that if it’s about accounting, it’s Universal. /episode/index/show/premieraccountingfirmuac/id/42923457

Stop Doing the Books: A Step-by-Step Guide to CFO Advisory 09/09/2026

Stop Doing the Books: A Step-by-Step Guide to CFO Advisory On today’s episode of Building the Premier Accounting Firm, Roger Knecht welcomes guest Jimmy Moore to discuss the critical intersection of merchant services, payment compliance, and financial technology for accounting firms. They explore how advisors can better protect their clients from rising fees and regulatory pitfalls while streamlining tech stacks for better performance. In This Episode: 00:00 Introduction to the Podcast 01:29 Understanding Merchant Services 04:20 PCI Compliance Fundamentals 06:46 Tech Stacks and Integrations 09:43 Four Compliant Billing Models 14:18 Cash Discounting Pitfalls 17:53 Visa Regulations and Enforcement 22:14 Future of Payment Technology 26:57 Leveraging Partnerships for Growth 32:02 Effective Rate and Closing Thoughts Key Takeaways: Audit client payment models to ensure they follow one of the four approved methods: surcharging, cash discounting, dual pricing, or convenience fees. Prioritize PCI compliance to safeguard sensitive cardholder data and avoid costly non-compliance fines. Integrate payment solutions with core accounting software to reduce manual data entry and minimize human error. Earn CPE: NASBA-approved CPE and IRS-approved CE credits are offered via Earmark by listening to this episode. ⁠ Access our QAS Self-Study Courses here: Conclusion: Thank you for joining us for another episode of Building the Premier Accounting Firm with Roger Knecht. For more information on how you can establish your own accounting firm and take control of your time and income, call 435-344-2060 or schedule an appointment to connect with Roger’s team Sponsors: It’s time to grow your capacity, not your headcount by using BILL, the AI-powered, exception-based AP solution built to help accounting firms work smarter as they scale and grow. From managing domestic and global payments to reducing manual data entry, BILL helps your team operate more efficiently. You’ll gain better visibility and control over financial operations and save time on routine processes. That means more time focused on strategic client success, stronger relationships, and higher-value advisory work. Plus, BILL supports healthier cash flow for your firm with automated invoicing that can help you get paid up to two times faster. Join the more than 9,000 accounting firms who trust BILL Visit to get started today, and when you take a demo, you'll receive a $250 gift card. Terms apply. Helping accounting professionals confidently and competently offer quality accounting services to get paid what they are worth. Offers: Special Offers for our Podcast Listeners, to take advantage of them today! Remember this: . Be sure to listen to our next episode and . Also, let us know what you think of the podcast and please share any suggestions you may have. We look forward to your input: For more information on how you can apply these principles to start and build your bookkeeping, accounting, & tax business, please visit us at or call us at 801-265-3777. And know that if it’s about accounting, it’s Universal. /episode/index/show/premieraccountingfirmuac/id/42837630

This Week on BPAF : Jimmy Moore 09/07/2026

What Your Financial Statements Are Hiding w/ Chris Shurian 09/02/2026

What Your Financial Statements Are Hiding w/ Chris Shurian Welcome to another episode of Building the Premier Accounting Firm podcast. Join host Roger Knecht and serial entrepreneur Chris Shurian as they explore the vital intersection of accurate financial data, exceptional customer service, and business ownership. This episode provides actionable strategies for accounting professionals and business owners to better understand the metrics that drive success and the power of building genuine client relationships. In This Episode: 00:00 Defining Founders and Business Exits 04:16 The Crucial Role of Accurate Accounting 11:34 Key Metrics and Simplifying Financial Reporting 21:08 The Power of Exceptional Customer Service 30:46 Creating Wow Moments for Customers 40:52 Setting Expectations and Professional Care 50:55 Authenticity in Business Leadership Key Takeaways: Prioritize accurate, timely financial reporting to prevent business failure and enable informed decision-making. Implement the “barefoot experience” approach to customer service to exceed expectations and stand out in competitive industries. Use simple, high-level dashboards—or “scorecards”—to keep business owners focused on green-light, red-light metrics. Maintain human connection in business interactions, even when leveraging technology, to build long-term loyalty. Featured Quotes: “You have to know your numbers. You absolutely have to know your numbers.” — Chris Shurian “Customer service is a contact sport.” — Chris Shurian “We need to recognize that when we fail to actually do our jobs properly, it does hinder the business owner from making informed business decisions.” — Roger Knecht Conclusion: Thank you for joining us for another episode of Building the Premier Accounting Firm with Roger Knecht. For more information on how you can establish your own accounting firm and take control of your time and income, call 435-344-2060 or schedule an appointment to connect with Roger’s team Sponsors: Helping accounting professionals confidently and competently offer quality accounting services to get paid what they are worth. Offers: Special Offers for our Podcast Listeners, to take advantage of them today! Remember this: . Be sure to listen to our next episode and . Also, let us know what you think of the podcast and please share any suggestions you may have. We look forward to your input: For more information on how you can apply these principles to start and build your bookkeeping, accounting, & tax business, please visit us at or call us at 801-265-3777. And know that if it’s about accounting, it’s Universal. /episode/index/show/premieraccountingfirmuac/id/42690585

How to Make the Most of AI at Your Firm w/ Tyler Otto 08/26/2026

How to Make the Most of AI at Your Firm w/ Tyler Otto In this episode of Building the Premier Accounting Firm, Roger Knecht welcomes back Tyler Otto to discuss the practical implementation of artificial intelligence within an accounting firm. This conversation highlights why treating AI as a new, trainable employee is the most effective approach for scaling operations and improving firm efficiency. In This Episode: 00:00:00 Introduction and Embracing AI 00:03:11 Treating AI as an Intern 00:10:15 The Reality of AI Development Time 00:16:49 Buy Versus Build AI Solutions 00:22:02 Future-Proofing Your Firm 00:25:41 AI for Firm Visibility and Control 00:28:36 Personal Growth and Community Engagement 00:32:08 Gratitude and Concluding Thoughts Key Takeaways: Adopt AI tools strategically by treating them like entry-level employees that require training, supervision, and clear process guidelines. Prioritize integrating AI features into existing software platforms rather than attempting to build proprietary, custom-coded systems. Recognize that implementing new technology requires an initial investment of time and labor before actual time savings occur. Focus firm leadership on high-level strategy and client interaction by utilizing AI to handle repetitive tasks and internal visibility. Featured Quotes: “If you want to figure out how to roll out AI, think of it like you just hired a new entry-level employee.” — Tyler Otto “You have to slow down to speed up. You have to build the tools, build the skills, build the processes.” — Tyler Otto “Your firm is a reflection of the leadership. So if you’re not willing to work on yourself, you’re not going to be able to expect your staff to be the person your firm needs.” — Tyler Otto Conclusion: Thank you for joining us for another episode of Building the Premier Accounting Firm with Roger Knecht. For more information on how you can establish your own accounting firm and take control of your time and income, call 435-344-2060 or schedule an appointment to connect with Roger’s team Sponsors: It’s time to grow your capacity, not your headcount by using BILL, the AI-powered, exception-based AP solution built to help accounting firms work smarter as they scale and grow. Join the more than 9,000 accounting firms who trust BILL Visit to get started today, and when you take a demo, you'll receive a $250 gift card. Terms apply. Helping accounting professionals confidently and competently offer quality accounting services to get paid what they are worth. Offers: Special Offers for our Podcast Listeners, to take advantage of them today! Remember this: . Be sure to listen to our next episode and . Also, let us know what you think of the podcast and please share any suggestions you may have. We look forward to your input: For more information on how you can apply these principles to start and build your bookkeeping, accounting, & tax business, please visit us at or call us at 801-265-3777. And know that if it’s about accounting, it’s Universal. /episode/index/show/premieraccountingfirmuac/id/42570215

This Week on BPAF : Tyler Otto 08/24/2026

Build an AI-Powered CAS Practice by 2028 w/ Peter McCarroll 08/19/2026

Build an AI-Powered CAS Practice by 2028 w/ Peter McCarroll Join Roger Knecht and guest Peter McCarroll on the latest episode of Building the Premier Accounting Firm as they discuss the urgent transformation of accounting practices through AI implementation. Learn how to shift from historical reporting to real-time advisory services and why adopting these technologies within the next two busy seasons is critical for the survival and growth of modern firms. In This Episode: 00:00:00 The Urgency of AI Adoption 00:03:49 Moving From Rearview to Dashboard 00:08:44 The Role of a Strategic Navigator 00:13:39 Phases of AI Implementation 00:18:21 Practical AI Applications 00:23:09 Advisory and Scaling Knowledge 00:28:48 Advanced Integration and Workflows 00:33:08 Empowering Staff in the AI Era 00:38:37 Final Thoughts and Future Roadmap Key Takeaways: Adopt AI tools now to prepare for the industry landscape of 2028. Transition accounting services from “rearview mirror” reporting to real-time, “dashboard” insights. Leverage AI as a strategic collaborator to identify revenue growth opportunities. Train staff members to become “accountant agent managers” who oversee AI-driven workflows. Integrate AI with existing platforms to optimize data transformation and efficiency. Featured Quotes: “AI is going to change the way we do our work, it’s going to change the way we run our firm, it’s going to change the way we engage with our clients.” — Peter McCarroll “You can’t drive very far or very fast looking in the rearview mirror.” — Peter McCarroll “I don’t sell tools. I sell thought.” — Peter McCarroll Conclusion: Thank you for joining us for another episode of Building the Premier Accounting Firm with Roger Knecht. For more information on how you can establish your own accounting firm and take control of your time and income, call 435-344-2060 or schedule an appointment to connect with Roger’s team Sponsors: Helping accounting professionals confidently and competently offer quality accounting services to get paid what they are worth. Offers: Exclusive offer: Get $500 off the AI Practice Transformation program — our three-week cohort that helps CAS firms redesign workflows, engineer their AI context, and build a real advisory model. That brings it from $2,997 to $2,497. Mention this episode when you reach out, and we'll apply the discount. Start at Special Offers for our Podcast Listeners, to take advantage of them today! Remember this: . Be sure to listen to our next episode and . Also, let us know what you think of the podcast and please share any suggestions you may have. We look forward to your input: For more information on how you can apply these principles to start and build your bookkeeping, accounting, & tax business, please visit us at or call us at 801-265-3777. And know that if it’s about accounting, it’s Universal /episode/index/show/premieraccountingfirmuac/id/42483305

This Week on BPAF : Peter McCarroll 08/17/2026

Why Accounting Marketing Messages Fail w/ Heidi Ryder 08/12/2026

Why Accounting Marketing Messages Fail w/ Heidi Ryder Join Roger Knecht and guest Heidi Ryder as they explore the essentials of growing a bookkeeping business with powerful marketing on the latest episode of Building the Premier Accounting Firm. This episode provides practical advice on marketing your firm, leveraging AI tools, and overcoming imposter syndrome to build a successful, remote-first accounting practice. In This Episode: 00:00:00 Introduction and Why Become a Bookkeeper 00:04:22 Virtual Bookkeeping and Client Retention 00:08:36 Common Marketing Pitfalls and Language 00:13:35 Practical Advice and Using AI for Marketing 00:20:47 Building Confidence and Overcoming Sales Anxiety 00:26:53 Peer Collaboration and Overcoming Imposter Syndrome 00:33:05 Balancing Motherhood, Faith, and Business 00:43:31 Closing Thoughts and Final Challenges Key Takeaways: Translate complex accounting jargon into simple, client-friendly language to build trust. Prioritize clear communication and networking over cold-calling to find ideal clients. Maintain professional confidence by acting as a peer rather than an employee to your clients. Featured Quotes: “Whatever that thing is that scares you, that’s what you should go out and do.” — Heidi Ryder “You’re never going to have a balance. But when you’re out of balance, make sure it means something.” — Heidi Ryder Conclusion: Thank you for joining us for another episode of Building the Premier Accounting Firm with Roger Knecht. For more information on how you can establish your own accounting firm and take control of your time and income, call 435-344-2060 or schedule an appointment to connect with Roger’s team Sponsors: Helping accounting professionals confidently and competently offer quality accounting services to get paid what they are worth. Offers: Book a demo and/or purchase by going to Special Offers for our Podcast Listeners, to take advantage of them today! Remember this: . Be sure to listen to our next episode and . Also, let us know what you think of the podcast and please share any suggestions you may have. We look forward to your input: For more information on how you can apply these principles to start and build your bookkeeping, accounting, & tax business, please visit us at or call us at 801-265-3777. And know that if it’s about accounting, it’s Universal. /episode/index/show/premieraccountingfirmuac/id/42397315

The Secret to Closing the Gap Between Profit and Cash w/ David Safeer 08/05/2026

The Secret to Closing the Gap Between Profit and Cash w/ David Safeer Welcome to another episode of Building the Premier Accounting Firm. Today you’ll discover how to bridge the gap between technical accounting and the practical cash flow needs of small business owners. Roger Knecht and guest David Safeer share actionable strategies to help accounting professionals transition into high-value cash flow advisory roles. In This Episode: 04:08 Cash vs. Accrual Perspectives 08:24 Implementing Cash Flow Projections 14:16 Attention and Accountability 26:47 Managing Cash Flow Strategies 37:37 Cash Flow Misconceptions 42:01 Accrual vs. Cash Forecasts 49:17 Impactful Cash Flow Strategies 1:07:40 Digital Tools for Cash Flow Key Takeaways: Prioritize clear, simple language over complex financial terminology to improve client communication. Implement 13-week cash flow projections to provide actionable visibility for business owners. Identify “gold nuggets” within a business, such as unused assets or inefficient procurement processes, to generate immediate cash. Featured Quotes: “Accounting is the language of big business. It’s being shoved down the throats of small businesses.” — David Safeer “If you’re an accountant and they have an internal bookkeeper, I teach… I don’t give reports. They don’t need another report. They need a cash flow projection.” — David Safeer “You can’t go to the supermarket and buy dinner with profits. You have to use cash.” — David Safeer Conclusion: Thank you for joining us for another episode of Building the Premier Accounting Firm with Roger Knecht. For more information on how you can establish your own accounting firm and take control of your time and income, call 435-344-2060 or schedule an appointment to connect with Roger’s team Sponsors: Helping accounting professionals confidently and competently offer quality accounting services to get paid what they are worth. Offers: Get the free eBook with 24 profitable cash flow strategies: Get a free advisory exploratory phone call: Mention you heard David on the "Building the Premier Accounting Firm" podcast and get 10% off any program you sign up for. Special Offers for our Podcast Listeners, to take advantage of them today! Remember this: . Be sure to listen to our next episode and . Also, let us know what you think of the podcast and please share any suggestions you may have. We look forward to your input: For more information on how you can apply these principles to start and build your bookkeeping, accounting, & tax business, please visit us at or call us at 801-265-3777. And know that if it’s about accounting, it’s Universal. /episode/index/show/premieraccountingfirmuac/id/42320505

Is Your Sales Process Limiting Your Accounting Firm? w/ Brian Mayoral 07/29/2026

Is Your Sales Process Limiting Your Accounting Firm? w/ Brian Mayoral Thank you for joining us for another episode of Building the Premier Accounting Firm. Today Roger Knecht and Brian Mayoral, Co-Founder and CEO of Sell Up, explore how accounting professionals can create the ideal sales package for their services. Discover how niching, effective sales systems, and shifting from features to benefits can help you scale your firm with easy to implement sales strategies. In This Episode: 00:00:00 Introduction to the Podcast 00:02:10 Redefining the Meaning of Sales 00:07:54 Mentorship and Personal Growth 00:13:01 Common Sales Pitfalls for Accountants 00:19:58 Packaging and Selling Value 00:27:10 Strategies for High-Value Sales 00:36:11 Closing Thoughts and Final Advice Key Takeaways: Define an ideal customer profile to move away from the “jack of all trades” trap and increase your firm’s repeatability. Prioritize “bennies” (benefits) over features to communicate the actual value of your services to business owners. Implement a structured sales process that builds trust and uses both logic and emotion to drive faster client decisions. Avoid the “Grand Slam” mentality by using a value ladder to offer smaller, high-impact services first. Featured Quotes: “Sales is believing in someone’s highest potential, not in their current circumstances.” — Brian Mayoral “The best sales techniques rarely beat the person who truly believes in their product or service.” — Brian Mayoral “Sales isn’t coercive; it’s a collaborative decision that betters a situation.” — Roger Knecht Conclusion: Thank you for joining us for another episode of Building the Premier Accounting Firm with Roger Knecht. For more information on how you can establish your own accounting firm and take control of your time and income, call 435-344-2060 or schedule an appointment to connect with Roger’s team Sponsors: Helping accounting professionals confidently and competently offer quality accounting services to get paid what they are worth. Offers: Helping accounting professionals confidently and Increase profit by 30% - Convert more high-paying clients upfront without more hours Book you no cost offer review at competently offer quality accounting services to get paid what they are worth. Special Offers for our Podcast Listeners, to take advantage of them today! Remember this: . Be sure to listen to our next episode and . Also, let us know what you think of the podcast and please share any suggestions you may have. We look forward to your input: For more information on how you can apply these principles to start and build your bookkeeping, accounting, & tax business, please visit us at or call us at 801-265-3777. And know that if it’s about accounting, it’s Universal. /episode/index/show/premieraccountingfirmuac/id/42199990

This Week on BPAF : Brian Mayoral 07/27/2026

The 5-Part Framework for Magnetic Company Culture w/ Dr. Ruth Mannschreck 07/22/2026

The 5-Part Framework for Magnetic Company Culture w/ Dr. Ruth Mannschreck Thank you for joining us for another episode of Building the Premier Accounting Firm. Today you’ll discover how to build a self-sustaining accounting firm that thrives without your constant presence. Roger Knecht and guest Dr. Ruth Mannschreck share a five-part framework for creating robust systems, fostering a magnetic company culture, and hiring for long-term success. In This Episode: 02:34 The Catalyst for Business Transformation 06:16 Collaborative Problem Solving and Systems 10:05 Communication and The Warm Handoff 17:27 Hiring for Soft Skills 23:06 Defining Culture through Behavior 28:10 Effective Leadership Styles 34:37 Redefining Success Beyond Busy Work Key Takeaways: Standardize your client journey using video-based SOPs to ensure consistency. Implement a culture of leadership where every team member is empowered to take initiative. Prioritize soft skills during the hiring process to ensure long-term cultural fit. Shift your mindset from being “busy” to being “effective” to reclaim your personal time. Featured Quotes: “I’d like to get people out of their office and back into their lives and have their practice support their life instead of the other way around.” — Dr. Ruth Mannschreck “If they can’t make decisions, if they can’t move forward without stopping by your office to ask a question, you’ve missed a big piece there.” — Dr. Ruth Mannschreck Conclusion: Thank you for joining us for another episode of Building the Premier Accounting Firm with Roger Knecht. For more information on how you can establish your own accounting firm and take control of your time and income, call 435-344-2060 or schedule an appointment to connect with Roger’s team Sponsors: Helping accounting professionals confidently and competently offer quality accounting services to get paid what they are worth. Offers: Get access to the ‘Self-Propelled Business Framework’ at Special Offers for our Podcast Listeners, to take advantage of them today! Remember this: . Be sure to listen to our next episode and . Also, let us know what you think of the podcast and please share any suggestions you may have. We look forward to your input: For more information on how you can apply these principles to start and build your bookkeeping, accounting, & tax business, please visit us at or call us at 801-265-3777. And know that if it’s about accounting, it’s Universal. /episode/index/show/premieraccountingfirmuac/id/42175930

This Week on BPAF : Dr. Ruth Mannschreck 07/20/2026

The Secret to Falling in Love with Accounting Again w/ Matt Granados 07/15/2026

The Secret to Falling in Love with Accounting Again w/ Matt Granados In today’s episode of Building the Premier Accounting Firm, Roger Knecht and guest Matt Granados discuss how accounting firm owners can move beyond basic efficiency to reach true effectiveness. They explore how setting clear client expectations and implementing structured planning systems help reduce burnout and improve profitability. In This Episode: 00:00 Efficiency vs Effectiveness in Accounting 03:50 Managing Expectations and Client Satisfaction 07:13 Bridging Intention and Execution 12:24 Evolution of Leadership Styles 17:24 Creating Margin and Optimal Performance 23:29 Strategic Planning for Success 27:33 Combating Burnout Through Systems 33:49 Closing Insights and Resources Key Takeaways: Differentiate between efficiency (speed) and effectiveness (quality) to provide better client outcomes. Set clear, professional expectations with clients early in the onboarding process to manage workloads and maintain boundaries. Prioritize personal and organizational margin to ensure you are prepared for unexpected business or life challenges. Shift your leadership style from a “drill sergeant” to an “architect” to help your team perform optimally. Featured Quotes: “Efficient is based on speed. Effective is based on quality of the outcome.” — Matt Granados “No one accidentally becomes fulfilled. I’ve seen people accidentally become rich. I’ve seen people accidentally become successful, but I’ve never seen someone be accidentally fulfilled.” — Matt Granados “The most successful people I work with have a system and solution before they need it.” — Matt Granados Conclusion: Thank you for joining us for another episode of Building the Premier Accounting Firm with Roger Knecht. For more information on how you can establish your own accounting firm and take control of your time and income, call 435-344-2060 or schedule an appointment to connect with Roger’s team Sponsors: Helping accounting professionals confidently and competently offer quality accounting services to get paid what they are worth. Offers: This is a monthly group coaching call to help high performers level up to optimal performance. Special Offers for our Podcast Listeners, to take advantage of them today! Remember this: . Be sure to listen to our next episode and . Also, let us know what you think of the podcast and please share any suggestions you may have. We look forward to your input: For more information on how you can apply these principles to start and build your bookkeeping, accounting, & tax business, please visit us at or call us at 801-265-3777. And know that if it’s about accounting, it’s Universal. /episode/index/show/premieraccountingfirmuac/id/42097425

This Week on BPAF : Matt Granados 07/13/2026

Get 5-10 Hours Back: How to Delegate Low-Value Tasks w/ Justin Lund 07/08/2026

Get 5-10 Hours Back: How to Delegate Low-Value Tasks w/ Justin Lund Thank you for listening to another episode of Building the Premier Accounting Firm. Today, Roger Knecht and Justin Lund discuss how founders can avoid common mistakes that lead to burnout and chaos. Justin shares his experience building and exiting multiple companies, highlighting the importance of strategic delegation and leveraging accounting insights to gain freedom and profitability in business. This episode is packed with practical advice for accounting professionals looking to scale their firms without sacrificing personal well-being. In This Episode: 00:00 Introduction to Justin Lund 01:29 Justin’s Entrepreneurial Journey 07:11 Starting vs. Investing in Businesses 13:54 The Role of Accounting and Delegation 25:05 The Emotional Cost of Low-Value Tasks 31:07 The Tripod Method for Delegation 36:06 Warning Signs of Capacity Ceiling 48:51 Conclusion and Resources Key Takeaways: Delegate tasks strategically to free up your time and energy, focusing on high-value, revenue-generating activities. Utilize accounting insights and dashboards to manage businesses effectively from a high level, avoiding day-to-day operational entrapment. Document repetitive tasks using a “tripod method” to create playbooks and checklists for easy delegation and duplication. Featured Quotes: “Distraction is the silent killer of dreams.” — Justin Lund “The more my business grew, literally the more time I had and the more resources I had to spend that time in better ways.” — Justin Lund “Be slow to delegate what your jam is. Be fast to delegate what sucks the time and energy away from you.” — Justin Lund Conclusion: Thank you for joining us for another episode of Building the Premier Accounting Firm with Roger Knecht. For more information on how you can establish your own accounting firm and take control of your time and income, call 435-344-2060 or schedule an appointment to connect with Roger’s team Sponsors: Helping accounting professionals confidently and competently offer quality accounting services to get paid what they are worth. Offers: Special Offers for our Podcast Listeners, to take advantage of them today! Remember this: . Be sure to listen to our next episode and . Also, let us know what you think of the podcast and please share any suggestions you may have. We look forward to your input: For more information on how you can apply these principles to start and build your bookkeeping, accounting, & tax business, please visit us at or call us at 801-265-3777. And know that if it’s about accounting, it’s Universal. /episode/index/show/premieraccountingfirmuac/id/42002595

This Week on BPAF : Justin Lund 07/06/2026

Academia’s Big Miss: What Accountants DON’T Learn w/ Brittany Brown 07/01/2026

Academia’s Big Miss: What Accountants DON’T Learn w/ Brittany Brown In today’s episode, Roger Knecht discusses the evolution of the accounting profession with Brittany Brown, focusing on the impact of AI, the importance of CAS, and changes needed in academic curriculum. They explore how firms can adapt to new technologies and client expectations, emphasizing practical application and efficiency for building a premier accounting firm. In This Episode: 00:00 Introduction & Guest Background 04:49 The Power of Niching in E-commerce 15:31 Transition to Academia: UVU QuickBooks Class 21:00 Passion Project to Full-Time Professor 31:14 Real-World Application in QuickBooks 37:07 Mastering the Mess: Reconciliation Challenges 41:27 QuickBooks Education & Intuit Partnership 45:04 AI in Accounting Curriculum 47:53 AI’s Impact on the Accounting Profession 58:25 Early Adopters and Future of Accounting 01:06:05 Evolution of Accounting Roles & Education 01:17:28 Brittany’s Approach to Life and Work Featured Quotes: “If you’re going to niche, you should niche in an industry that has natural barriers to entry for other accountants because it’s challenging.” — Brittany Brown “Academia has typically prepared people to be tax accountants or audit accountants… but it has never really touched on preparing them to be industry accountants, which is kind of appalling to me because industry accounting represents probably 95% of accounting jobs out there.” — Brittany Brown “What it does is anything that is time-consuming, repetitive, and mundane should be done with AI now. And so you can now take a team and do much more with them.” — Brittany Brown Conclusion: Thank you for joining us for another episode of Building the Premier Accounting Firm with Roger Knecht. For more information on how you can establish your own accounting firm and take control of your time and income, call 435-344-2060 or schedule an appointment to connect with Roger’s team Sponsors: Helping accounting professionals confidently and competently offer quality accounting services to get paid what they are worth. Offers: Special Offers for our Podcast Listeners, to take advantage of them today! Remember this: . Be sure to listen to our next episode and . Also, let us know what you think of the podcast and please share any suggestions you may have. We look forward to your input: For more information on how you can apply these principles to start and build your bookkeeping, accounting, & tax business, please visit us at or call us at 801-265-3777. And know that if it’s about accounting, it’s Universal. /episode/index/show/premieraccountingfirmuac/id/41915290

How to Attract and Retain Top Talent w/ Rhamy Alejeal 06/24/2026

How to Attract and Retain Top Talent w/ Rhamy Alejeal Thank you for tuning in to another episode of Building the Premier Accounting Firm. Today, Roger Knecht and guest Rhamy Alejeal discuss the strategic importance of HR in accounting firms, focusing on how accounting professionals can leverage financial insights to optimize labor productivity and compensation strategies. Learn how to transform HR from an afterthought to a core component of business growth and talent retention. In This Episode: 00:00 Introduction to People Processes 03:42 Rethinking Labor Productivity 12:05 The Importance of HR Processes 20:38 Core Benefits vs. The ‘Wow’ Factor 26:08 Strategic Investment in Employee Benefits 32:20 Key HR Processes for Business Growth 39:59 Conclusion: Partnering for HR Success Key Takeaways: Quantify labor productivity by viewing payroll as an investment that generates returns, not just an expense, to better attract and retain talent. Evaluate compensation as a total package, including salaries, taxes, workers’ comp, and benefits like sick leave and 401k matches, to measure overall investment against productivity. Prioritize top talent by designing HR processes that cater to exceptional employees, acknowledging their disproportionate contribution to organizational value. Implement structured HR processes for organizational design, job creation, recruiting, onboarding, performance management, and offboarding to enhance efficiency and reduce hiring-to-productivity time. Optimize benefits spending by allocating specific percentages to core, supplemental, and “wow factor” benefits to boost retention and recruitment, moving beyond average compensation. Featured Quotes: “A dollar in benefits spend is worth about $1.70 in salary.” — Rhamy Alejeal “You don’t rise to your goals, you fall to the level of your standards, right? Your processes.” — Rhamy Alejeal “If you can see that your hiring process is shorter and your retention is longer, then you’re actually achieving what you’re hoping to achieve.” — Roger Knecht Conclusion: Thank you for joining us for another episode of Building the Premier Accounting Firm with Roger Knecht. For more information on how you can establish your own accounting firm and take control of your time and income, call 435-344-2060 or schedule an appointment to connect with Roger’s team Sponsors: Helping accounting professionals confidently and competently offer quality accounting services to get paid what they are worth. Offers: Partner with People Processes: Special Offers for our Podcast Listeners, to take advantage of them today! Remember this: . Be sure to listen to our next episode and . Also, let us know what you think of the podcast and please share any suggestions you may have. We look forward to your input: For more information on how you can apply these principles to start and build your bookkeeping, accounting, & tax business, please visit us at or call us at 801-265-3777. And know that if it’s about accounting, it’s Universal. /episode/index/show/premieraccountingfirmuac/id/41789235

This Week on BPAF : Rhamy Alejeal 06/22/2026

The Hidden Cost of Low Prices w/ Linda Hunt 06/17/2026

The Hidden Cost of Low Prices w/ Linda Hunt Welcome to another episode of Building the Premier Accounting Firm. In today’s discussion, Roger Knecht and Linda Hunt of Some Solutions discuss how to confidently price accounting services, focusing on the Minimum Aligned Price formula and the emotional impact of money conversations. Learn to overcome self-doubt and set fair, sustainable pricing for your accounting firm. In This Episode: 00:00 Introduction & Remote Accounting Journey 04:01 The Minimum Aligned Price Formula 07:03 Confidence in Pricing & Value 13:54 Mindset Shifts and Value-Based Selling 23:01 Nervous System & Money Conversations 32:23 Minimum Aligned Price & Consulting Rate 37:07 Conclusion & Resources Key Takeaways: Calculate your Minimum Aligned Price to establish a baseline for your accounting services, considering desired salary, business expenses, and true billable hours. Understand the emotional aspects of pricing by recognizing how your nervous system reacts during money conversations and using grounding techniques. Practice stating your fees with confidence and clarity, focusing on the transformation you provide rather than just the tasks performed. Educate clients on the value of your services beyond basic bookkeeping, differentiating between transactional work and strategic financial operations. Realize that your expertise and experience as an accounting professional are valuable and should be compensated accordingly. Conclusion: Thank you for joining us for another episode of Building the Premier Accounting Firm with Roger Knecht. For more information on how you can establish your own accounting firm and take control of your time and income, call 435-344-2060 or schedule an appointment to connect with Roger’s team Sponsors: Helping accounting professionals confidently and competently offer quality accounting services to get paid what they are worth. Offers: Get access to free training for the Perfect Pricing Formula: And a FREE Chapter from her book: Finally understand what to charge — and why... A free 15-minute training that helps service providers set prices that protect their time, support their business, and eliminate second-guessing. Special Offers for our Podcast Listeners, to take advantage of them today! Remember this: . Be sure to listen to our next episode and . Also, let us know what you think of the podcast and please share any suggestions you may have. We look forward to your input: For more information on how you can apply these principles to start and build your bookkeeping, accounting, & tax business, please visit us at or call us at 801-265-3777. And know that if it’s about accounting, it’s Universal. /episode/index/show/premieraccountingfirmuac/id/41672950

This Week on BPAF : Linda Hunt 06/15/2026

Adopt AI or Fall Behind w/ Yogi Goel 06/10/2026

Adopt AI or Fall Behind w/ Yogi Goel Welcome back to the Building the Premier Accounting Firm podcast. In today’s episode, host Roger Knecht and his guest Yogi Goel, cofounder of Maxima, discuss AI’s transformative impact on accounting, moving from transactional tasks to strategic advisory roles. They share insights on leveraging AI as a specialized employee to boost efficiency, client delivery, and firm profitability. This episode offers a clear vision for accounting professionals to adopt AI effectively. In This Episode: 00:00 Yogi Gyal’s Journey to Accounting 02:37 Why Start Maxima AI? 06:21 AI in Accounting: Real vs. Hype 09:25 AI as an Employee: An Analogy 14:17 The Evolving Accounting Firm with AI 19:32 Maintaining Client Trust with AI 23:36 AI’s Impact on Accounting Workflow 26:54 AI Adoption: The Future of Firms 30:48 Maxima vs. Generic AI Platforms 36:17 Freedom, Gratitude, and Family Values 40:19 Closing Thoughts and Resources Key Takeaways: Learn why AI is a tool, not a replacement, for accounting professionals. Understand the specific accounting tasks where AI excels and where human judgment remains vital. Discover how AI can free up time for advisory services and deeper client engagement. Explore the benefits of specialized AI agents in accounting compared to general AI models. Prepare your firm for future growth and increased profitability through AI adoption. Featured Quotes: “Accounting was one thing which – as the language of business – allowed me to interpret and compare businesses across [different industries].” — Yogi Goel “AI is a tool which is out there to help humans be better, not dominate humans.” — Yogi Goel “The one who adopts AI at the center, in a balanced way, will have better client delivery in terms of time and accuracy, and more revenue and better margins.” — Yogi Goel Conclusion: Thank you for joining us for another episode of Building the Premier Accounting Firm with Roger Knecht. For more information on how you can establish your own accounting firm and take control of your time and income, call 435-344-2060 or schedule an appointment to connect with Roger’s team Sponsors: Helping accounting professionals confidently and competently offer quality accounting services to get paid what they are worth. Offers: Get a demo of Maxima here: Special Offers for our Podcast Listeners, to take advantage of them today! Remember this, . Be sure to listen to our next episode and . Also, let us know what you think of the podcast and please share any suggestions you may have. We look forward to your input: For more information on how you can apply these principles to start and build your bookkeeping, accounting, & tax business, please visit us at or call us at 801-265-3777. And know that if it’s about accounting, it’s Universal. /episode/index/show/premieraccountingfirmuac/id/41581660

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