The Woodard Report Podcast: Featuring Heather Satterley and Joe Woodard
We empower business advisors to transform businesses. This podcast is your source for information and news you need for your accounting, bookkeeping, or tax practice. Don’t forget to check out ScalingNewHeights.com for information about our conference in June. And if you subscribe to this podcast, we will have a special registration offer just for you coming up soon. For more information, please visit https://www.woodard.com/podcast
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Episode 183 - Beyond Pricing: Drucker, Branding, and the Soul of Business - The Woodard Report Podcast
08/05/2026
Episode 183 - Beyond Pricing: Drucker, Branding, and the Soul of Business - The Woodard Report Podcast
On this episode of the Woodard Report podcast, Joe speaks with Ron Baker about Peter Drucker’s most influential ideas, including the rise of knowledge work, the importance of effectiveness over efficiency, and the need for businesses to pursue future opportunities instead of clinging to the past. They also explore how accounting firms can use distinct brands to separate commoditized services from high-value advisory work as well as why religious leaders offer valuable insights into purpose, dignity, stewardship, and the moral role of business. About Ron BakerRonald J. Baker began his CPA career with KPMG in 1984. He is the co-founder of THRESHOLD and co-host of The Soul of Enterprise podcast. A renowned speaker and author, he has written eight best-selling books, including Firm of the Future, Implementing Value Pricing and Time’s Up. He has educated over 450,000 professionals worldwide and has been named among Accounting Today’s Top 100 Most Influential People. A graduate of San Francisco State University, he is also a faculty member of the Professional Pricing Society and a Disney University alumnus. The Soul of Enterprise clergy episodes Thank you to our show sponsor, Puzzle! Puzzle replaces manual quickbooks workflows with AI-driven books built for review, approval, and audit-ready accountability. Learn more at . Learn more about the show and our sponsors at
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Episode 182 - AI-Ready Accounting: Transforming Firms Before the Market Does - The Woodard Report Podcast
07/29/2026
Episode 182 - AI-Ready Accounting: Transforming Firms Before the Market Does - The Woodard Report Podcast
On this episode of the Woodard Report podcast, Heather speaks with Peter McCarroll about why accounting firms must treat AI adoption as a strategic business transformation rather than simply adding new software tools. Peter explains the pricing pressures threatening traditional compliance work, the need to redesign firms around advisory value and human relationships, and how reusable AI instructions and skills can help teams turn individual experimentation into shared, repeatable processes. About Peter McCarroll Peter McCarroll is a Chartered Accountant (NZ), CPA (Canada), and the founder of The AI Accountant — the only AI training and implementation platform built exclusively for CAS practices. He runs a full-service accounting practice at Fuel Accountants, where he has spent the past two years deploying AI across real client workflows. Peter helps accounting firms move from experimentation to operational transformation — not with theory, but with systems built inside a working practice. Thank you to our show sponsor, Bill! Bill is the intelligent way to create and pay bills, send invoices, manage expenses, control budgets, and access the credit your business needs to grow, all in one platform. Learn more about the show and our sponsors at
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Episode 181 - Moving Upmarket (and Making Business More Human) - The Woodard Report Podcast
07/22/2026
Episode 181 - Moving Upmarket (and Making Business More Human) - The Woodard Report Podcast
On this episode of the Woodard Report podcast, Joe and Heather talk about Xero’s move into the midmarket, why accounting firms may find greater opportunity above the AI disruption zone, and how empathy can defuse difficult client conversations. They also discuss how personal transformation can lead to a healthier, more successful practice. Current events — TV/Movie quote of the week — Excellent Thing We Learned — Member spotlight — The Woodard Report article of the week — Thank you to our show sponsor, Digits! Digits is the world's first agent general ledger, accounting software that works for you. Built from the ground up for the AI era, Digits automates bookkeeping in month and shifting your team from data entry to review and advisory. to get started today. Learn more about the show and our sponsors at
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Episode 180 - From Compliance to Capacity: Building an AI-Enabled Accounting Firm - The Woodard Report Podcast
07/15/2026
Episode 180 - From Compliance to Capacity: Building an AI-Enabled Accounting Firm - The Woodard Report Podcast
On this episode of the Woodard Report podcast, Joe speaks with Jan Haugo about how accounting firms can move beyond experimenting with AI and begin using it to transform workflows, increase profitability, and create more capacity for strategic advisory services. Jan shares practical approaches for overcoming security concerns and uncertainty, including her “pain, problem, prompt” method, while emphasizing the importance of firmwide training, strong governance, and leadership-driven adoption. They also explore how AI can help accountants become more thoughtful, empathetic advisors by freeing them to focus on the goals and challenges that matter most to their clients. About Jan Haugo Jan Haugo Vuicich is the founder of SmartAccountant.AI, an AI training and implementation company built for accounting professionals, by someone who spent years doing the actual work. She was named to MSN's Top 10 AI Leaders to Follow in 2026 and co-authored Intuit's AI Certification curriculum. Before any of that, she was running a small accounting practice, finishing her degree over a decade as a single mom, and logging 70+ hour weeks. That history is what makes her training different. She is not teaching from the outside. She built her frameworks from inside the same workflows her clients are trying to fix. Through SmartAccountant.AI, Jan runs the SMART Method Bootcamp, a foundational AI training program that has seen 100% adoption among participants, along with done-with-you training and direct AI implementation for firms ready to make real operational changes. She works with solo practitioners through mid-size accounting firms across the country, and the work is the same regardless of firm size: help owners and their teams reclaim their time, price their services at the level the work actually deserves, and build practices that hold up outside of tax season too. Thank you to our show sponsor, Rightworks! For more information about RightWorks, . Learn more about the show and our sponsors at
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Episode 179 - Change Is the Environment - The Woodard Report Podcast
07/08/2026
Episode 179 - Change Is the Environment - The Woodard Report Podcast
On this episode of the Woodard Report podcast, Joe and Heather speak about Microsoft’s latest quantum computing and AI developments, and what those shifts could mean for accounting professionals. They also connect lessons from TV, April Rinne’s book Flux, and Donna Reed’s article on client conversations to the importance of adaptability, empathy, and intentional decision-making in advisory work. Current events — TV/Movie quote of the week — Excellent Thing We Learned — Member spotlight — The Woodard Report article of the week — The Quiet Question that Improves Every Client Conversation Thank you to our show sponsor, Zoho! Zoho is a unique and powerful software suite to transform the way you work, designed for businesses of all sizes, built by a company that values your privacy. Learn more about the show and our sponsors at
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Episode 178 - Current Trends, Human Connection, and the Future of Advisory - The Woodard Report Podcast
07/01/2026
Episode 178 - Current Trends, Human Connection, and the Future of Advisory - The Woodard Report Podcast
On this episode of the Woodard Report podcast, Joe and Heather speak about emerging developments shaping the accounting profession, including the consolidation of New England CPA societies, Pilot's shift from a local partnership model to AI-powered bookkeeping software, and how firms can use automation to elevate, not replace, their advisory services. They also explore the importance of healthy client boundaries, lessons from popular TV shows, recent IRS penalty relief opportunities, and why uniquely human qualities like navigating uncertainty and building relationships remain essential in an AI-driven future. Current events — TV/Movie quote of the week — Excellent Thing We Learned — Member spotlight — The Woodard Report article of the week — Thank you to our show sponsor, Puzzle! Puzzle, the next generation firm, AI-powered, human-led. Puzzle replaces manual quick books workflows with AI-driven books built for review, approval, and audit-ready accountability. Learn more at Learn more about the show and our sponsors at
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Episode 177 - From Startup Founder to Autonomous Bookkeeping: How Pilot Built the Future of Accounting - The Woodard Report Podcast
06/24/2026
Episode 177 - From Startup Founder to Autonomous Bookkeeping: How Pilot Built the Future of Accounting - The Woodard Report Podcast
On this episode of the Woodard Report podcast, Joe speaks with Jessica McKellar about her journey from studying computer science at MIT and building successful software startups to founding Pilot, a bookkeeping and accounting technology company. Jessica shares how Pilot evolved from solving the financial back-office challenges faced by entrepreneurs into a platform and explains how automation, AI, and value-based pricing are reshaping the economics of accounting firms. She also introduces Meridian, Pilot’s new platform that enables autonomous bookkeeping, month-end close processes, and AI-assisted accounting workflows designed to help firms scale while improving both client and employee experiences. About Jessica McKellar Jessica McKellar is the co-founder and CEO of Pilot. She started the company with a simple conviction: small business owners shouldn't have to be their own bookkeeper, accountant, and financial advisor all at once. Today, Pilot serves more than 3,500 businesses, from neighborhood restaurants and retail shops to growing service businesses, helping owners get books off their plates so they can focus on what actually grows their company. Before Pilot, Jessica founded two other companies that were acquired by Oracle and Dropbox. She holds 3 degrees from MIT. Jessica also teaches programming at San Quentin State Prison and advocates for hiring formerly incarcerated people. She believes that excluding talented workers based on their records doesn't make business sense, and that second chances belong in the workplace too. Thank you to our show sponsor, Canopy! Unclunk your firm with Canopy, the fully integrated practice management that helps accountants build the firm they always wanted. The suite includes client and document management, workflow, time and billing, engagements and proposals, and more. Check out . Learn more about the show and our sponsors at .
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Episode 176 - The Tech Humanist: Keeping Humanity at the Center of AI - The Woodard Report Podcast
06/17/2026
Episode 176 - The Tech Humanist: Keeping Humanity at the Center of AI - The Woodard Report Podcast
On this episode of the Woodard Report podcast, Joe speaks with Kate O'Neill about the intersection of technology and humanity, exploring how businesses can embrace AI and automation without losing the human connection that drives trust, meaning, and purpose. They discuss why accounting professionals should view AI not as a replacement, but as an opportunity to shift from transactional work to more strategic, empathetic, and judgment-driven client relationships. The conversation also dives into the risks of over-automation and why human wisdom, context, and lived experience remain irreplaceable in an increasingly tech-driven world. About Kate O'Neill Kate is the founder of KO Insights, helping leaders and organizations make future-ready, meaningful, and ethical decisions about technology and innovation. She’s a former digital strategist for Netflix and early Google, and the author of 6 books, 4 of which are in tech and business including Tech Humanist and . Thank you to our show sponsor, Rightworks! For more information about RightWorks, please visit . Learn more about the show and our sponsors at
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Episode 175 - AI, Intuit Upheaval, and the Future of Accounting - The Woodard Report Podcast
06/10/2026
Episode 175 - AI, Intuit Upheaval, and the Future of Accounting - The Woodard Report Podcast
On this episode of the Woodard Report podcast, Heather and Joe talk about major developments shaping the accounting profession, including Intuit’s dramatic stock decline, workforce layoffs tied to AI adoption, and the launch of ChatGPT Finance. They also explore how artificial intelligence is rapidly transforming professional services, emphasizing the need for accountants to embrace change by leaning into human-centered skills like judgment, relationships, and advisory work. Along the way, they share productivity strategies, discuss the dangers of “not us” thinking around AI disruption, and spotlight a successful bookkeeping professional building a high-value, relationship-driven practice. Current events — TV/Movie quote of the week — Excellent Thing We Learned — Member spotlight — The Woodard Report article of the week — Thank you to our show sponsor, Digits! Digits is the world's first agentic general ledger. It is accounting software that works for you. Built from the ground up for the AI era, Digits automates bookkeeping in month end, shifting your team from data entry to review and advisory. Visit to get started today. Learn more about the show and our sponsors at
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Episode 174 - Firing Clients, Finding Your Niche, and Making Accounting Fun - The Woodard Report Podcast
06/03/2026
Episode 174 - Firing Clients, Finding Your Niche, and Making Accounting Fun - The Woodard Report Podcast
On this episode of the Woodard Report podcast, Heather speaks with Tyler Otto about his unconventional path into accounting, growing a firm, and how niching down helped strengthen both company culture and client relationships. Tyler shares candid advice on when and how to “fire” difficult clients, what red flags to watch for during prospecting, and why firm owners should prioritize cultural fit over revenue. The conversation also dives into Tyler’s upcoming live game show at Scaling New Heights, and practical ways accounting firms can safely experiment with AI while preparing for the future of the profession. About Tyler Otto Tyler Otto is the president and owner of Specialized Accounting, a thriving seven-figure remote firm dedicated to the hospitality industry. Before joining forces with his wife Karen at her solo practice, Tyler honed his finance chops with leadership roles at Vail Resorts and Imprint Hospitality. Known for his energy and approachability, Tyler is passionate about collaboration with fellow professionals and welcoming new accountants to the field. He’s presented at major accounting, tech, and hospitality conferences and recently launched Firm Foundation, a step-by-step course turning firm-building from daunting into doable. Whether behind a microphone or trading insights on podcasts, Tyler brings both expertise and a dash of fun to any discussion. Thank you to our show sponsor, Woodard! The Woodard membership program will help you build your ideal practice with our coaching, education, community, and resources. We'll get you there with strategic direction from experienced pros, access to skill building and resources, and a community to continually inspire your practices transformation. Learn more about the show and our sponsors at
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Episode 173 - AI, Humanity, and the Future of Accounting - The Woodard Report Podcast
05/27/2026
Episode 173 - AI, Humanity, and the Future of Accounting - The Woodard Report Podcast
On this episode of the Woodard Report podcast, Joe and Heather speak about the rapid acceleration of AI and how it is reshaping the accounting profession, from audit and compliance work to more advisory-focused roles. They explore the importance of maintaining the “soul” of a business in an increasingly automated world, discuss the rise of AI agents and emerging technologies, and share insights on how accountants can adapt by leaning into their uniquely human strengths. Current events — TV/Movie quote of the week — Member spotlight — The Woodard Report article of the week — Thank you to our show sponsor, Digits! Digits is the world's first agentic general ledger. It is accounting software that works for you. Built from the ground up for the AI era, Digits automates bookkeeping in month end, shifting your team from data entry to review and advisory. Visit to get started today. Learn more about the show and our sponsors at
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Episode 172 - From Bank Recs to Big Dreams: Debra Kilsheimer on the Human Side of Accounting - The Woodard Report Podcast
05/20/2026
Episode 172 - From Bank Recs to Big Dreams: Debra Kilsheimer on the Human Side of Accounting - The Woodard Report Podcast
On this episode of the Woodard Report podcast, Heather speaks with Debra about the power of relationships in accounting, why bookkeepers and accountants are often the true drivers behind their clients’ dreams, and how human connection creates lasting value far beyond tax returns and reconciliations. Debra shares the inspiration behind her podcast, Bookkeepers on Fire, her philosophy on advisory conversations, and how AI is freeing firms from tedious tasks so they can focus more on strategy, leadership, and client trust. About Debra Kilsheimer Debra Kilsheimer is a Curiosity Powered Advisor, Speaker and creative thinker based in Port Orange. She challenges the norm! She is a Top 100 ProAdvisor, Top 10 ProAdvisor, Woodard CAS Winner, and an Intuit Accountant Council alumni. Behind the Scenes (BSFS) is a Port Orange, Florida firm helping business owners stay on top of bookkeeping, accounting, payroll and tax prep. We streamline the work so you can make faster decisions with fewer surprises. Thank you to our show sponsor, Canopy! Unclunk your firm with Canopy, the fully integrated practice management that helps accountants build the firm they always wanted. The suite includes client and document management, workflow, time and billing, engagements and proposals, and more. Check out . Learn more about the show and our sponsors at
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Episode 171 - Strange New World, Smarter Decisions - The Woodard Report Podcast
05/13/2026
Episode 171 - Strange New World, Smarter Decisions - The Woodard Report Podcast
On this episode of the Woodard Report podcast, Joe and Heather speak about the rapid evolution of AI, payments, and pricing models in the accounting technology space. They explore Intuit’s move toward real-time FedNow payments, the rise of outcome-based AI pricing, and how firms can adapt by focusing on value, process discipline, and proactive decision-making rather than fear or hesitation. Current events — TV/Movie quote of the week — Excellent things we learned — Member spotlight — The Woodard Report article of the week — Thank you to our show sponsor, Woodard! The Woodard membership program will help you build your ideal practice with our coaching, education, community and resources. We'll get you there with strategic direction from experienced pros, access to skill building and resources and a community to continually inspire your practice's transformation. Learn more about the show and our sponsors at
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Episode 170 - AI Is Collapsing Time: What Accounting Firms Must Do Next - The Woodard Report Podcast
05/06/2026
Episode 170 - AI Is Collapsing Time: What Accounting Firms Must Do Next - The Woodard Report Podcast
On this episode of the Woodard Report podcast, Joe speaks with Kacee Johnson about how artificial intelligence is reshaping the accounting profession far beyond simple efficiency gains. They discuss the difference between firms that are reacting to AI with quick-fix tools versus those strategically rethinking their entire operating model, including pricing, staffing, advisory services, and client expectations. Kacee also shares insights on AI hype versus reality, the future of advisory-focused firms, and the mission behind the new AI Native Accounting Foundation to help firms navigate AI adoption responsibly and effectively. About Kacee Johnson Kacee is a fintech innovation leader who lives at the intersection of emerging tech and practical transformation. She has been honored as CPA Practice Advisor's Top 25 Thought Leaders, Accounting Today's Top 100 Most Influential, AICPA's Most Powerful Women, and is a Certified Corporate Director from NACD. As an independent nonprofit, the AI Native Accounting Foundation equips firms and finance teams to adopt AI with confidence through education, research, and recognition thereby moving the profession past hype and into practice. Thank you to our show sponsor, Digits! Digits is the world's first agentic general ledger. It is accounting software that works for you. Built from the ground up for the AI era, Digits automates bookkeeping in month end, shifting your team from data entry to review and advisory. Visit to get started today. Learn more about the show and our sponsors at
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Episode 169 - From CAS Firm to Franchise Force: Decimal’s Bold New Direction - The Woodard Report Podcast
04/29/2026
Episode 169 - From CAS Firm to Franchise Force: Decimal’s Bold New Direction - The Woodard Report Podcast
On this episode of the Woodard Report podcast, Joe speaks with Matt Tait about Decimal’s evolution from a fast-growing, tech-enabled CAS practice into a franchise model designed to empower accounting and bookkeeping firm owners. Matt shares why Decimal sold its direct services business to focus entirely on helping small firms scale through a turnkey operating system that combines staffing, AI-powered tools, technology, processes, and community support. The conversation also explores the future of the accounting industry, including the impact of AI, private equity, outsourcing, and the growing need for firm owners to think like business owners rather than practitioners. About Matt Tait Matt Tait has spent his career as an entrepreneur, having previously launched two technology companies. He's always focused on helping businesses, making it easier for them to operate while creating great customer experiences. Continuing a people-first theme driven by technology, Matt launched Decimal with his Co-Founder Jacob Cloran to solve financial operations, bookkeeping, and tax for small and medium-sized businesses. Now they’re expanding the mission to help small accounting firms succeed through franchising. Thank you to our show sponsor, Zoho! Zoho is a unique and powerful software suite to transform the way you work, designed for businesses of all sizes, built by a company that values your privacy. Learn more about the show and our sponsors at
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Episode 168 - Work Less, Earn More: The $10,000 Hour Mindset - The Woodard Report Podcast
04/22/2026
Episode 168 - Work Less, Earn More: The $10,000 Hour Mindset - The Woodard Report Podcast
On this episode of the Woodard Report podcast, Joe speaks with Dr. Sabrina Starling about how business owners can reclaim time and increase profitability by focusing on high-value work, empowering their teams, and adopting a “$10,000 hour” mindset. They explore common missteps like failing to delegate, overcomplicating services, and misunderstanding client needs, while emphasizing the importance of human connection in an AI-driven world. The conversation also highlights strategies for hiring A-players and building a business that supports life, not the other way around. About Dr. Sabrina Starling Sabrina Starling, Ph.D., PCC, BCC, The Business Psychologist, is the international bestselling author of and ®. Her work has been featured in Forbes, Entrepreneur.com, and Thrive Global. She is the founder of Tap the Potential and cohost of the Profit by Design Podcast, globally ranked in the top 5% of most popular shows by Listen Notes. Listed in The Daily Hustle's Top 50 Entrepreneurs to Watch in 2022, Dr. Sabrina is on a mission to send 10,000 entrepreneurs on a 4 Week Vacation® in 10 years. Thank you to our show sponsor, Puzzle! Puzzle is the next generation firm: AI-powered, human-led. Puzzle replaces manual QuickBooks workflows with AI-driven books built for review, approval, and audit-ready accountability. Learn more at . Learn more about the show and our sponsors at
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Episode 167 - AI Agents, Human Judgment, and the Future of Work - The Woodard Report Podcast
04/15/2026
Episode 167 - AI Agents, Human Judgment, and the Future of Work - The Woodard Report Podcast
On this episode of the Woodard Report podcast, Heather and Joe talk about the rapid evolution of AI, highlighting new developments like Xero’s partnership with Anthropic and the growing role of AI agents in business operations. They explore how AI is shifting from simple assistance to performing complex tasks, while emphasizing the continued need for human oversight, judgment, and ethical responsibility. The conversation also balances excitement with caution, urging professionals to adopt AI strategically while staying informed about its risks and limitations. Current events — TV/Movie quote of the week — Excellent things we learned — Member spotlight — The Woodard Report article of the week — Thank you to our show sponsor, Woodard! The Woodard membership program will help you build your ideal practice with our coaching, education, community and resources. We'll get you there with strategic direction from experienced pros, access to skill building and resources and a community to continually inspire your practice's transformation. Learn more about the show and our sponsors at
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Episode 166 - Big Moves, Bigger Mindsets: M&A, AI Disruption, and Choosing Who You Become - The Woodard Report Podcast
04/08/2026
Episode 166 - Big Moves, Bigger Mindsets: M&A, AI Disruption, and Choosing Who You Become - The Woodard Report Podcast
On this episode of the Woodard Report podcast, Heather and Joe talk about the surge in accounting firm mergers and acquisitions alongside major industry shifts, including Microsoft entering the accounting space with AI-driven platforms. They explore how artificial intelligence is reshaping work by replacing tasks, not entire jobs, while emphasizing the growing importance of human judgment, relationships, and adaptability. Current events — 14 Firm Acquisitions in the last 30 days (see the bottom of the show notes for a full list) Microsoft sponsors Scaling New Heights for the first time in our 17 year history TV/Movie quote of the week — Excellent things we learned — Member spotlight — The Woodard Report article of the week — Thank you to our show sponsor, Woodard! The Woodard membership program will help you build your ideal practice with our coaching, education, community and resources. We'll get you there with strategic direction from experienced pros, access to skill building and resources and a community to continually inspire your practice's transformation. Learn more about the show and our sponsors at Full list of acquisitions mentioned by Heather: March 17, 2026: EisnerAmper and Price, Reuben, and Associates, LLP. EisnerAmper announced that the Calabasas firm joined its restaurant advisory practice. March 16, 2026: Xeinadin and Gregory Priestley & Stewart. Xeinadin announced its acquisition of GP&S, a Long Eaton accountancy and business advisory practice serving owner managed businesses across the Midlands. March 11, 2026: Doeren Mayhew and Berman Hopkins CPAs & Associates, LLP. Doeren Mayhew said it acquired the Florida based top 300 CPA firm, expanding its Central Florida footprint. March 9 and 10, 2026: TC Group and Little and Neal. TC Group announced the acquisition of Ferryhill practice Little and Neal to strengthen its North East presence. March 5, 2026: Carr, Riggs & Ingram and CFO Hub. CRI announced that San Diego based CFO Hub joined the CRI Family of Companies. March 3, 2026: Armanino and MSTiller. Armanino announced that MSTiller joined the firm, adding a Southeast focused accounting firm with offices in Georgia and New York. March 3, 2026: BK Plus and Crowther Chartered Accountants. BK Plus announced the addition of Crowther Chartered Accountants in Huddersfield, expanding its Yorkshire footprint. March 2, 2026: Xeinadin and Accountancy Cloud. Xeinadin announced it acquired London based Accountancy Cloud, a practice focused on startup and venture backed businesses. February 26, 2026: Sorren and Connected Accounting. Sorren said Connected Accounting joined the firm, giving it a California presence and broader technology driven accounting capabilities. February 25, 2026: UHY and Larson Tax Partners. UHY announced the acquisition of St. Louis based Larson Tax Partners to expand its Midwest and national tax capabilities. February 23, 2026: Doeren Mayhew and Dent Moses, plus Impact Technology Group. Doeren Mayhew announced its acquisition of Birmingham based CPA firm Dent Moses and its affiliate Impact Technology Group, expanding into Alabama. February 20, 2026: UHY and CMJ LLP. UHY announced the addition of Queensbury, New York CPA firm CMJ LLP, expanding in New York’s Capital Region. February 19, 2026: Pinion and TCA. Pinion announced its intent to merge with TCA, with the proposed combination expected to take effect April 1, 2026. February 19, 2026: Haefele Flanagan and Mig Murphy Sistrom, CPA, PC. Haefele Flanagan announced it acquired the Durham, North Carolina nonprofit accounting and advisory firm.
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Episode 165 - AI, Productivity, and the Push for Real Change in Accounting - The Woodard Report Podcast
04/01/2026
Episode 165 - AI, Productivity, and the Push for Real Change in Accounting - The Woodard Report Podcast
On this episode of the Woodard Report podcast, Heather and Joe talk about recent developments in AI-powered audit tools, shifting software strategies, and what these changes mean for accounting firms of all sizes. They also explore lessons from pop culture on leadership and workplace culture, emphasizing the importance of aligning actions with stated values. The conversation rounds out with insights on emerging AI protocols and how firms can better structure both their work and client relationships for long-term success. Current events — TV/Movie quote of the week — Excellent things we learned — Member spotlight — The Woodard Report article of the week — Thank you to our show sponsor, Zoho! Zoho is a unique and powerful software suite to transform the way you work, designed for businesses of all sizes, built by a company that values your privacy. Learn more about the show and our sponsors at
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Episode 164 - Thriving in a World of Constant Change - The Woodard Report Podcast
03/25/2026
Episode 164 - Thriving in a World of Constant Change - The Woodard Report Podcast
On this episode of the Woodard Report podcast, Heather speaks with April Rinne about how our early life experiences shape our relationship with change and how fear versus hope influences how we respond to uncertainty. They explore April’s concept of a “flux mindset,” including practical strategies like embracing a portfolio career and learning to “run slower” to navigate today’s fast-paced, AI-driven world. The conversation highlights how accounting professionals can build resilience and adaptability by reframing change as an opportunity for growth. About April Rinne April Rinne is a change navigator: she helps individuals and organizations rethink and reshape their relationships with change and uncertainty. She's a trusted advisor, speaker, investor, lawyer, global development executive, adventurer (100+ countries) and insatiable handstander. She is ranked one of the 50 leading female futurists in the world and is a Harvard Law School graduate, a Young Global Leader at the World Economic Forum, a member of the Silicon Guild and Thinkers50 Radar, and author of the international bestseller Flux: 8 Superpowers for Thriving in Constant Change. Thank you to our show sponsor, Puzzle! Puzzle is the next generation firm: AI-powered, human-led. Puzzle replaces manual QuickBooks workflows with AI-driven books built for review, approval, and audit-ready accountability. Learn more at . Learn more about the show and our sponsors at
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Episode 163 - AI, Scams, and the Future of CAS: Navigating a Changing Accounting Landscape - The Woodard Report Podcast
03/18/2026
Episode 163 - AI, Scams, and the Future of CAS: Navigating a Changing Accounting Landscape - The Woodard Report Podcast
On this episode of the Woodard Report podcast, Heather and Joe discuss the growing threat of AI-powered financial scams and practical steps firms can take to protect themselves and their clients. They also explore major shifts in the accounting technology space, including platform-driven CAS models, AI misconceptions, and evolving firm strategies. Current events — TV/Movie quote of the week — Excellent things we learned — Member spotlight — The Woodard Report article of the week — Thank you to our show sponsor, Woodard! The Woodard membership program will help you build your ideal practice with our coaching, education, community, and resources. We'll get you there with strategic direction from experienced pros, access to skill building and resources, and a community to continually inspire your practice's transformation. Learn more about the show and our sponsors at
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Episode 162 - AI Adoption Is Accelerating—Are Firms Keeping Up? - The Woodard Report Podcast
03/11/2026
Episode 162 - AI Adoption Is Accelerating—Are Firms Keeping Up? - The Woodard Report Podcast
On this episode of the Woodard Report podcast, Heather and Joe discuss new research on global AI adoption and what it means for accounting firms, highlighting how early adopters are gaining strategic advantages while others risk falling behind. They explore recent funding surges in AI-powered accounting tools, practical considerations for implementing AI within firms, and the importance of governance, strategy, and financial independence in adapting to rapid technological change. Current events — TV/Movie quote of the week — Excellent things we learned — Member spotlight — The Woodard Report article of the week — Thank you to our show sponsor, Puzzle! Puzzle, the next generation firm, AI-powered, human-led. Puzzle replaces manual quickbooks workflows with AI-driven books built for review, approval, and audit-ready accountability. Learn more at . Learn more about the show and our sponsors at
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Episode 161 - AI Fluency, Pricing Strategy & the Future of Accounting - The Woodard Report Podcast
03/04/2026
Episode 161 - AI Fluency, Pricing Strategy & the Future of Accounting - The Woodard Report Podcast
On this episode of the Woodard Report podcast, Heather and Joe discuss new research on AI adoption in the workplace, highlighting the growing wage and opportunity gap between AI-fluent professionals and those who are not. They also explore major shifts in the accounting tech landscape, including month-end automation, evolving pricing strategies, and competitive convergence among software platforms. Current events — TV/Movie quote of the week — Excellent things we learned — Member spotlight — Dave Eshbach of CleanSlate Financial Services The Woodard Report article of the week — Thank you to our show sponsor, Digits! Digits is the world's first agent general ledger, accounting software that works for you. Built from the ground up for the AI era, Digits automates bookkeeping in month and shifting your team from data entry to review and advisory. Visit Digits.com to get started today. Learn more about the show and our sponsors at
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Episode 160 - AI’s New Accounting Era: The Foundation, the Fallout, and the Future - The Woodard Report Podcast
02/25/2026
Episode 160 - AI’s New Accounting Era: The Foundation, the Fallout, and the Future - The Woodard Report Podcast
On this episode of the Woodard Report podcast, Heather and Joe discuss the launch of the AI Native Accounting Foundation (including its first award at Scaling New Heights) and what BotKeeper’s abrupt shutdown signals about the rise and fall of “tech-driven bookkeeping” first movers. They explore why the future is “human-first, AI-enabled,” arguing firms must shift from selling bookkeeping/tax prep to building advisory skills and wisdom-driven judgment that AI can’t replace. Current events — TV/Movie quote of the week — Excellent things we learned — Member spotlight — The Woodard Report article of the week — Thank you to our show sponsor, Zoho! Zoho is a unique and powerful software suite to transform the way you work, designed for businesses of all sizes, built by a company that values your privacy. Learn more about the show and our sponsors at
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Episode 159 - From Accidental Accountant to Sustainable Firm Builder - The Woodard Report Podcast
02/18/2026
Episode 159 - From Accidental Accountant to Sustainable Firm Builder - The Woodard Report Podcast
On this episode of the Woodard Report podcast, Heather speaks with Amanda Aguillard about her path from discovering accounting at 16 to building a cloud-based firm, launching the peer-driven Accounting Salon community, and becoming COO at Padgett. They discuss how Padgett helps firms implement standardized systems to reduce decision paralysis and build a business that isn’t dependent on the owner. About Amanda Aguillard, CPA Amanda Aguillard was only 16 years old when she realized she wanted to become a CPA, and she’s used that passion to encourage innovation in the industry she loves. That commitment lives on through her work as the Chief Operating Officer of Padgett, one of North America’s largest accounting service and business consulting providers. Amanda oversees operational and logistical guidance for the company’s network of firms. This includes identifying and incorporating the latest cloud technologies into the Padgett operating model. She also is focused on developing and facilitating the necessary trainings to ensure these platforms and tools are successfully implemented by Padgett firms. Amanda, who is a past Top 50 Women in Accounting, is the author of . She was the Xero Evangelist of the Year in 2016, and used her experience as a Xero Certification instructor to co-found Elefant, a continuing education company for accountants and bookkeepers. She has written numerous articles for industry publications, including the Journal of Accountancy. Prior to joining the executive team at Padgett, she ran Aguillard Accounting LLC, focusing her efforts on providing unparalleled client support service through a cloud-based practice that could be done anywhere in the world. Amanda also is the founder of Accounting Salon, a thinktank of cloud accounting experts, and its virtual offshoot, SALONv. Amanda, who holds a Master’s Degree in Taxation from the University of Denver, regularly speaks at state CPA societies and industry technology conferences, including Accountex, AICPA Engage, Scaling New Heights, Clio Cloud Conference and Xerocon. When she’s not advocating for her industry, she spends her time cooking for her two children, reading historical fiction and backcountry hiking. Learn more about Amanda Thank you to our show sponsor, Puzzle! Puzzle is the next generation firm: AI-powered, human-led. Puzzle replaces manual QuickBooks workflows with AI-driven books built for review, approval, and audit-ready accountability. Learn more at . Learn more about the show and our sponsors at
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Episode 158 - From 150 Hours to AI Hype: What’s Really Changing in Accounting - The Woodard Report Podcast
02/04/2026
Episode 158 - From 150 Hours to AI Hype: What’s Really Changing in Accounting - The Woodard Report Podcast
On this episode of the Woodard Report podcast, Heather speaks with David Leary about the biggest shifts shaping the accounting profession such as the rollback of the 150-hour CPA requirement and how alternative pathways are already boosting the pipeline of new accounting graduates. They also dig into what AI is actually good for (and where it still fails without strong firm processes and human oversight), plus why private equity in accounting can create serious conflicts of interest, particularly for assurance-related work. About David Leary David Leary is the Co-Founder and COO of Earmark. He is an innovative and influential force in the small business accounting world with over 22 years of QuickBooks experience. Thank you to our show sponsor, Zoho! Zoho is a unique and powerful software suite to transform the way you work, designed for businesses of all sizes, built by a company that values your privacy. Learn more about the show and our sponsors at
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Episode 157 - From Bookkeeping to Business Coach: Collaboration, Advisory, and AI Done Right - The Woodard Report Podcast
01/28/2026
Episode 157 - From Bookkeeping to Business Coach: Collaboration, Advisory, and AI Done Right - The Woodard Report Podcast
On this episode of the Woodard Report podcast, Joe speaks with Tanya Hilts about how bookkeepers can move from compliance work into true advisory by leading with better questions, leaning into collaboration, and building confidence through real-time financial conversations. Tanya shares how AI tools like ChatGPT, Claude, and Perplexity can help generate smarter client questions and speed up analysis, while emphasizing that the real “threat” isn’t AI itself, but professionals who learn to use it well. About Tanya Hilts Tanya Hilts, CPB, FCPB is an award-winning accounting pro helping firms adopt practical AI, tighten processes, and grow profit-focused advisory. and learn more about her "AI in Action" series Thank you to our show sponsor, Woodard! The Woodard membership program will help you build your ideal practice with our coaching, education, community and resources. We'll get you there with strategic direction from experienced pros, access to skill building and resources and a community to continually inspire your practice's transformation. Learn more about the show and our sponsors at
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Episode 156 - From Tax Filing to “Ask Luca”: Guardrails for AI and Client Boundaries - The Woodard Report Podcast
01/21/2026
Episode 156 - From Tax Filing to “Ask Luca”: Guardrails for AI and Client Boundaries - The Woodard Report Podcast
On this episode of the Woodard Report podcast, Joe and Heather speak about major January updates in the accounting space, including the IRS’s Free File program and why Joe prefers a subsidized third-party prep model over direct IRS filing. They also dig into how large firms like RSM are rolling out tightly governed generative AI tools (like “Ask Luca”), and what that teaches smaller firms about AI quality being driven by both model capability and data control. Current events — TV/Movie quote of the week — Excellent things we learned — Member spotlight — The Woodard Report article of the week — Thank you to our show sponsor, Canopy! Unclunk your firm with Canopy, the fully integrated practice management that helps accountants build the firm they always wanted. The suite includes client and document management, workflow, time and billing, engagements and proposals, and more. Check out . Learn more about the show and our sponsors at
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Episode 155 - Try the Train: New-Year Tech, Big Hope, and the Power of “No” - The Woodard Report Podcast
01/14/2026
Episode 155 - Try the Train: New-Year Tech, Big Hope, and the Power of “No” - The Woodard Report Podcast
On this episode of the Woodard Report podcast, Joe and Heather speak about early-2026 accounting and tech happenings, including new CPE training for Intuit Enterprise Suite, and why leaning into AI skills can create outsized professional value. Current events — TV/Movie quote of the week — Excellent things we learned — Member spotlight — The Woodard Report article of the week — Thank you to our show sponsor, CorpNet! CorpNet is the trusted leader in business formation and compliance services, offering one of the best tools for accountants, CPAs and tax professionals nationwide. The CorpNet Partner Program can 10X your firms revenue by helping clients form a business, register for payroll taxes, maintain compliance and more. Learn more about the show and our sponsors at
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Episode 154 - Dancing Toward Trust: Community, Collaboration, and the Human Side of Accounting - The Woodard Report Podcast
12/31/2025
Episode 154 - Dancing Toward Trust: Community, Collaboration, and the Human Side of Accounting - The Woodard Report Podcast
On this episode of the Woodard Report podcast, Heather speaks with Nancy McClelland, CPA about her journey as the “Dancing Accountant” and how embracing authenticity, community connection, and people skills has shaped her firm and career. They explore the importance of trust, niching, and collaboration between bookkeepers and tax professionals. About Nancy McClelland, CPA is a CPA on a lifelong mission to educate the professionals who support small businesses and their communities. She runs 'Ask a CPA', a Q&A membership for bookkeepers who want to learn to prepare “tax-ready" books; ; was named Top CAS ProAdvisor; Top 50 Women in Accounting; Bridging the Gap Mentor of the Year; ToPS Speaker of the Year; and AICPA Global Women to Watch – you can check out her . Thank you to our show sponsor, Woodard!The Woodard membership program will help you build your ideal practice with our coaching, education, community and resources. We'll get you there with strategic direction from experienced pros, access to skill building and resources and a community to continually inspire your practice's transformation. Learn more about the show and our sponsors at
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