The Successful Bookkeeper Podcast
The Successful Bookkeeper Podcast is a weekly show to help increase your confidence, work smarter and build a business you love. Each week you'll listen to inspiring guests who will share their success secrets, so you can take your bookkeeping enterprise and life to another level. Some of them include New York Times Best-Selling Author of E-Myth, Michael E. Gerber, the host of The Productive Woman podcast, Laura McClellan, Pure Bookkeeping Co-Founder, Debbie Roberts and the author of "I Know How She Does It", Laura Vanderkam. If you're a bookkeeping business owner who is looking for an uplifting, entertaining and informative podcast exclusively for YOU then you have arrived at the right place! Get ready because your journey towards success begins — now. Your Host Michael Palmer is an acclaimed business coach who has helped hundreds of bookkeepers across the world push through their fears and exponentially grow their businesses and achieve the quality of life they've always wanted.
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EP470: Nellie Akalp - How To Boost Revenue With Compliance Services
04/22/2025
EP470: Nellie Akalp - How To Boost Revenue With Compliance Services
“By offering corporate services, compliance services, payroll and sales tax registration services to their clients, they're actually not only enhancing their trusted advisory services, but they're also scaling their revenues, increasing their revenues. More importantly, they are keeping that client with them long term because they're becoming a one-stop shop.” -Nellie Akalp Nellie Akalp, CEO of CorpNet.com, shares how bookkeepers and accounting professionals can elevate their advisory role, boost retention, and increase revenue—all by helping clients with business formations, payroll tax registration, BOI filings, and more. In this episode, you’ll learn: Why compliance services are a natural extension of bookkeeping Flexible ways to earn (referral, reseller, or hybrid) What bookkeepers get wrong about forming LLCs and S-corps To learn more about Nellie, click . Connect with her on . Time Stamp 2:36 – Nellie’s Background 05:43 – Why Compliance Services Matter 09:02 – Practical Compliance Support 13:21 – The Revenue Potential of Compliance 18:06 – Bookkeepers as Strategic Partners 22:41 – Getting Started with Compliance 27:51 – Embracing Compliance as a Growth Area This episode is brought to you by our friends at Dext! Dext handles transaction capture, keeps your data accurate, and even simplifies e-commerce reconciliation, all in one place. Join thousands of bookkeepers and accountants who’ve already made the switch. If you're ready to save time, reduce errors, and make bookkeeping more efficient, Dext is for you! Go to to book a demo TODAY and see how it can transform the way you work!
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EP469: Holly Corcoran - How Bookkeepers Can Build Strong Partnerships With CPAs
04/15/2025
EP469: Holly Corcoran - How Bookkeepers Can Build Strong Partnerships With CPAs
“Go out, stick your hand out, say hello and start talking. It's not easy, but over time it becomes easier and it's definitely worthwhile just creating the relationships either virtually or physically in the community.” -Holly Corcoran Holly Corcoran, owner and CEO of Corcoran Business Advisory Services, shares her journey from running a traditional CPA firm to launching a virtual, advisory-focused business that specializes in veterinary practices. She explains why she chose this niche, the value of niching down, and the importance of collaboration between bookkeepers and accountants. In this episode, you’ll also learn… Why collaboration between bookkeepers & CPAs leads to better client outcomes What bookkeepers can do to build strong, lasting partnerships with accounting firms The benefits of focusing on a specific niche like veterinary practices To learn more about Holly, click . Connect with her on . Time Stamp 00:22 – Holly‘s transition from traditional CPA to advisory work 01:41 – How Holly got into veterinary advisory 03:41 – Benefits of niching & the unique needs of veterinary clients 06:10 – Developing branding, virtual practice setup & publishing her book 07:16 – Role of bookkeepers in Holly’s advisory model & collaborative opportunities 09:02 – Key qualities of a good bookkeeping partner & working relationship dynamics 11:30 – Red flags bookkeepers should watch for when partnering with CPAs 13:42 – Virtual firm structure & plans for national exposure in the veterinary space 16:07 – Holly’s strategy for outreach & educational webinars 17:56 – Perceptions and misconceptions between CPAs & bookkeepers 20:42 – The value of outsourcing, avoiding DIY traps & preventing fraud 24:44 – Encouragement for bookkeepers to connect with CPAs & overcome intimidation 27:20 – Final thoughts on consistency, outreach & building strategic relationships This episode is brought to you by our friends at Dext! Dext handles transaction capture, keeps your data accurate, and even simplifies e-commerce reconciliation, all in one place. Join thousands of bookkeepers and accountants who’ve already made the switch. If you're ready to save time, reduce errors, and make bookkeeping more efficient, Dext is for you! Go to to book a demo TODAY and see how it can transform the way you work!
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EP468: Nick Mullen - Cybersecurity Mistakes That Could Cost You Everything
04/08/2025
EP468: Nick Mullen - Cybersecurity Mistakes That Could Cost You Everything
“If you think about the most common mistake that most small and mid-sized business owners make when it comes to cybersecurity, it's this assumption that ‘I'm not very big. It's not going to happen to me’. And so they're not doing any security or they're doing minimal security measures in place.” -Nick Mullen Cybersecurity expert, Nick Mullen, founder and CEO of Entoo Security, shares the rising threats facing bookkeepers and accounting professionals. He provides real-world examples, common vulnerabilities, and how bookkeepers can protect themselves and their clients using the FTC Safeguards Rule as a blueprint for compliance. In this interview, you'll learn: The 3 major cyber threats facing bookkeepers How social engineering tricks users into handing over sensitive info Why small firms are easier targets— and how criminals exploit that To learn more about Nick and his services, click . Connect with him on . Time Stamp 02:13 – Nick’s Mullen’s background 04:05 – The biggest threat today: Ransomware 06:42 – Real-World Scam Examples 09:13 – How to Protect Your Money 12:11 – A $400K Real-Life Loss 14:36 – The most common mistake business owners make 17:18 – Social Engineering Tactics 20:11 – How criminals insert themselves into real email conversations to redirect payments. 23:27 – What is Ransomware? 27:25 – Risk Assessment 31:43 – Compliance Checklist 33:28 – Regulatory Fines 35:32 – How Entoo Security Helps 38:09 – Why cybersecurity is as essential as bookkeeping This episode is brought to you by our friends at BILL! BILL is the smarter way to create and pay bills, send invoices, manage expenses and control budgets, and access the credit your business needs to grow — all on one platform and they’re designed to help bookkeepers succeed and grow, whether you have your own bookkeeping firm or you’re a bookkeeper at an accounting firm. To find out more, check out TODAY!
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EP467: Debra Kilsheimer - Building A Bookkeeping Business On Your Own Terms
04/01/2025
EP467: Debra Kilsheimer - Building A Bookkeeping Business On Your Own Terms
“Define your customer first. I only want to work with people who understand that accounting is important to their business.” -Debra Kilsheimer Debra Kilsheimer, owner of Behind the Scenes Financial Services, shares her journey from growing up in an accounting household to running a modern, client-focused bookkeeping business. She discusses the power of flat-rate pricing, building strong client relationships and how embracing technology can transform your business plus much more! Connect with her on and . To listen to The Bookkeepers on Fire podcast, click . Check out her YouTube channel at . Time Stamp 01:05 - Debra’s journey into accounting 04:31 - Early career struggles & leaving CPA firms 08:51 - Building a thriving firm with a focus on forward-looking financial strategies12:06 - Becoming a QuickBooks Pro Advisor 19:31 - Defining the ideal client & pricing strategies 25:46 - Embracing technology & efficiency30:05 - Work-Life balance & boundaries42:00 - Where to find Debra This episode is brought to you by our friends at BILL! BILL is the smarter way to create and pay bills, send invoices, manage expenses and control budgets, and access the credit your business needs to grow — all on one platform and they’re designed to help bookkeepers succeed and grow, whether you have your own bookkeeping firm or you’re a bookkeeper at an accounting firm. To find out more, check out TODAY!
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EP466: Rae Gagnon - Scaling A Bookkeeping Business With Systems & Strategy
03/25/2025
EP466: Rae Gagnon - Scaling A Bookkeeping Business With Systems & Strategy
“As I was building all these processes in my mind, if I had been documenting them, I would have not had to spend that two years documenting everything after the fact when the team started to come. If you're good at what you do, your accountants are going to find you and they're going to start referring business to you. So just to have those processes documented and you're ready for when they come, that's gonna be a huge time saver.” -Rae Gagnon In this episode, Rae Gagnon, founder of Blue Jean Business Solutions, discusses the challenges of fast growth, the importance of documenting processes, and how systemizing allowed her to take a 10-week break without disruptions. In this episode, you’ll also learn... How niching in real estate bookkeeping accelerated growth The power of referrals & partnerships in scaling a firm Moving beyond bookkeeping with advisory & financial coaching To learn more about Rae, click . Connect with her on . Time Stamp 02:06 – Rae’s journey into bookkeeping 04:10 – Finding a niche in real estate 08:18 – Rapid business growth 10:38 – Managing growth & personal life challenges 11:59 – Hiring & scaling the business 14:28 – Implementing systems & processes 16:15 – Strengths & weaknesses as a business owner 18:06 – Industry changes in real estate 20:38 – Advice for bookkeepers starting their business 22:31 – Implementing Pure Bookkeeping System 24:28 – The impact of systemization 28:08 – Transitioning to advisory services 30:25 – Expanding offerings beyond bookkeeping 33:42 – What’s next? 34:39 – Final thoughts This episode is brought to you by our friends at BILL! BILL is the smarter way to create and pay bills, send invoices, manage expenses and control budgets, and access the credit your business needs to grow — all on one platform and they’re designed to help bookkeepers succeed and grow, whether you have your own bookkeeping firm or you’re a bookkeeper at an accounting firm. To find out more, check out TODAY!
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EP465: Brandy Derrick - The Virtual Bookkeeper's Success Journey
03/18/2025
EP465: Brandy Derrick - The Virtual Bookkeeper's Success Journey
“People came to me thinking that I was an expert. They saw the posts that I was posting about bookkeeping for law firms, and they already had buy-in to use my services. So I didn't need to sell them that much. I just needed to prove that I was a real person. I don't want to be out there selling my services. I want people coming to me already sold on my services.” -Brandy Derrick Brandy Derrick, owner of Legal Ease Bookkeeping, discusses her journey from learning bookkeeping for her father’s business to building a successful virtual firm specializing in law firms. Brandy shares how she overcame self-doubt, found her niche, and leveraged online marketing to grow her business while working remotely—even from a sailboat! You'll also learn... The role of LinkedIn, YouTube & referrals in client acquisition strategy Why niching down simplifies marketing, sales & client trust The importance of persistence, overcoming self-doubt & finding a support system To learn more about Brandy & Legal Ease Bookkeeping, click . Connect with her on . Time Stamp: 01:00 – Brandy’s background & start in bookkeeping 03:00 – Challenges of working remotely without reliable internet 08:00 – Getting clients as a new bookkeeper 14:00 – Narrowing focus & building a niche in legal bookkeeping 17:00 – The role of Google Ads in business growth 21:00 – LinkedIn & Referral Marketing Strategy 30:00 – The power of offline marketing 38:00 – The value of niching in bookkeeping 42:00 – Overcoming challenges & growing confidence 45:00 – Final thoughts & where to find Brandy This episode is brought to you by our friends at BILL! BILL is the smarter way to create and pay bills, send invoices, manage expenses and control budgets, and access the credit your business needs to grow — all on one platform and they’re designed to help bookkeepers succeed and grow, whether you have your own bookkeeping firm or you’re a bookkeeper at an accounting firm. To find out more, check out TODAY!
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EP464: Spotlight - Christine Siegenthaler - The Importance Of Contingency Planning For Bookkeepers
03/13/2025
EP464: Spotlight - Christine Siegenthaler - The Importance Of Contingency Planning For Bookkeepers
“In the bookkeeping and accounting world, if someone gets sick and that client can't get what they need, they just get back into the universe and another bookkeeper picks them up. So you lose everything.” -Christine Siegenthaler Christine Siegenthaler, founder of Succession Security, discusses the importance of contingency planning for solo bookkeepers and small bookkeeping firms. She shares how Succession Security helps ensure businesses continue operating during unexpected events like illness, injury, or even death. In this interview, you'll learn: Why contingency planning is essential How technology enables seamless business continuity Steps to secure your business To find out more about Christine, click . Connect with her on . To learn how Succession Security can help you, visit . Time Stamp 00:37 - Why solo bookkeepers need a contingency plan 01:52 - Risks of losing clients without a backup plan 03:22 - Importance of documentation and access to critical accounts 04:07 - Using cloud-based technology for seamless transitions 07:30 - The role of internet and cloud-based services in contingency planning 13:35 - Finding and trusting the right person to help manage your business 15:04 - The personal nature of bookkeeping and why AI can’t replace human interaction 17:23 - The challenge of bookkeepers taking time off – business doesn't stop 19:31 - Legal considerations and recommended insurance coverage 21:22 - Best practices for security, encryption, and protecting client data 24:14 - How proactive planning ensures business continuity and client security 29:05 - The importance of designating an emergency point of contact 30:05 - How to get started with Succession Security and where to learn more
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EP463: Jamie Van Cuyk - The Must-Know Steps For Hiring & Delegating Successfully
03/11/2025
EP463: Jamie Van Cuyk - The Must-Know Steps For Hiring & Delegating Successfully
“If it's consistently where you're feeling behind like you can never get on top of your to-do list, that you're always having to reschedule stuff for tomorrow, that's probably a sign that you have too much work on your plate. That's a sign that you could use more help within your business.” -Jamie Van Cuyk Jamie Van Cuyk, owner of Growing Your Team, joins the podcast to help solo bookkeepers and small business owners master hiring and delegation. She shares practical strategies for building a strong team, improving efficiency, and setting up a business for long-term success. In this episode, you’ll learn: Common delegation mistakes & how to avoid them How to create a job post that attracts the right candidates The difference between micromanaging & effective leadership To learn more about Jamie, click . Connect with her on . Time Stamp 01:07 - Jamie Van Cuyk’s background 02:57 - Common fears around delegation 06:22 - The mindset shift needed to delegate effectively 10:42 - Key signs to hire & delegate tasks in your business 14:05 - How shifting from control to trust can create freedom & growth 20:06 - The importance of clear processes & training when delegating tasks 26:45 - How to determine what tasks to delegate 32:25 - Steps in hiring the right person & avoiding common mistakes 35:14 - Real success stories 39:58 - How to connect with Jamie for hiring support 41:33 - Business-building resources
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EP462: Dr. Angela Jackson - Why Employee Well-Being Drives Productivity & Profitability
03/04/2025
EP462: Dr. Angela Jackson - Why Employee Well-Being Drives Productivity & Profitability
“I remember being on Zoom and we saw our colleagues' children, people got personal and talked about the health challenges they were dealing with or that a family member was dealing with. I saw leaders and bosses having to have that same transparency. It was human to human. Since the workplace has evolved, employees are expecting that same transparency. They're expecting the same collaboration. And what they want specifically for the next generation of workers is the ability to contribute meaningfully to the decisions that impact their work.” -Dr. Angela Jackson Dr. Angela Jackson, founder of Future Forward Strategies and author of The Win-Win Workplace, shares how investing in employee well-being can boost productivity, profitability, and retention. She explains why traditional top-down management no longer works and how small businesses can create thriving workplaces by listening to employees and offering flexibility. In this interview, you'll learn: Why empowering employees leads to 23% higher profitability How small businesses can compete with larger firms by offering flexibility How to measure the ROI of employee engagement To learn more about Angela, click . Connect with her on . To order her book, The Win-Win Workplace, visit Time Stamp 02:00 - Dr. Angela Jackson and her background 04:50 - Career journey and inspiration behind The Win-Win Workplace 04:51 - Research on aligning employee well-being with business success 08:39 - Why top-down decision-making is outdated 13:59 - The importance of flexibility in modern workplaces 19:01 - Small bookkeeping firm example of flexible work policies 24:01 - Offering meaningful benefits to boost retention 29:01 - Addressing benefit abuse and tracking productivity 33:01 - Key employee metrics and how to access the book
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EP461: Lou Clarke - Money, Mindset & Mastery: Unlocking Business Success
02/25/2025
EP461: Lou Clarke - Money, Mindset & Mastery: Unlocking Business Success
“Money is an energetic source in our world. When you get it, you feel really good, and when it leaves, you feel very bad. That's an energy. That's an exchange.” -Lou Clarke Lou Clarke, who is a CFO and profit strategist, discusses the power of confidence, pricing strategies, and how bookkeepers can shift into advisory roles to better serve clients. She also explains the importance of understanding money dynamics and building a business that truly thrives. To learn more about Lou, click . Follow her on . Time Stamp 01:10 - Lou’s Journey into Bookkeeping 03:30 - Early Business Growth & Pricing Challenges 06:40 - Losing a Major Client & Financial Struggles 10:00 - The Road to Financial Recovery 15:00 - Finding Clients & Business Growth Strategies 20:30 - Pricing for Value & Selling Results 25:10 - Confidence & Business Success 30:00 - Transitioning to Advisory & Profit First 35:50 - Understanding the Energetics of Money 40:20 - What’s Next for Lou 45:00 - How to Connect with Lou
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EP460: Kristen Corey - How To Build A Website That Attracts Clients
02/18/2025
EP460: Kristen Corey - How To Build A Website That Attracts Clients
“If a majority of your leads come from LinkedIn, that's great, and you should keep doing that. But it doesn't hurt to diversify and to make sure that you have a couple of lead sources to pull in from different avenues.” -Kristen Corey Kristen Corey, founder of Media Books, dives into the importance of a well-designed website, how to make your firm stand out online, and common pitfalls to avoid. In this interview, you'll also learn: Why a website builds trust & credibility How to turn visitors into loyal clients The best platforms for an easy-to-manage site Plus much more! To learn more about Kristen, click . Connect with her on . Time Stamp 00:28 – Kristen’s journey from accounting to marketing 02:33 – Founding Media Books to help bookkeepers 04:21 – Common marketing struggles for bookkeepers 06:11 – Why websites matter for bookkeeping businesses 08:53 – The importance of an About page 10:44 – Choosing the best website platform 13:42 – Questions to ask when hiring a web designer 17:24 – The role of SEO in the AI era 20:35 – How websites improve user experience 24:15 – Common website mistakes to avoid 26:33 – Must-have features for bookkeeping websites 28:33 – Ensuring a website is user-friendly 31:48 – Pitfalls to avoid in website building 32:59 – Media Books’ website design process 35:01 – Client success story
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EP459: Stephanie Kelcey - How To Empower Clients Through Mindset Shifts
02/11/2025
EP459: Stephanie Kelcey - How To Empower Clients Through Mindset Shifts
“My workflow was going to tell me exactly what I needed to do that day. And I very intentionally and very consciously grounded myself into my work and into that routine and into that process, because that was the one thing in my life that was certain. My business got me through that time, that certainty and that control when everything else was so chaotic.” - Stephanie Kelcey Stephanie Kelcey, owner of Capture Bookkeeping, shares her journey of navigating major life transitions while building a successful bookkeeping business. She opens up about overcoming personal challenges, restructuring her business for efficiency, and the mindset shifts that helped her find stability and growth. In this interview, you'll learn: How systems & workflows can create stability during life transitions Why mindset shifts are crucial for financial success The impact of community and support networks on business growth Plus much more! Connect with Stephanie on . Learn more about Capture Bookkeeping . Time Stamp: 00:39 – Journey into bookkeeping & business growth 02:56 – Navigating personal challenges 04:13 – The importance of support 09:54 – Coping mechanisms 12:56 – Creating space in business & shifting to an advisory model 17:17 – Mindset shifts in business, financial growth & client empowerment 22:02 – Financial mindset shifts 26:21 – Systems, hiring & structuring workflows for stability 30:09 – Focusing on rest, personal growth& financial education 32:41 – Implementing a CRM system & improving work-life balance 34:50 – Business success, community & learning This episode is brought to you by our great friends at ! Imagine having all your financial data in one place, with real-time analytics and customized reports at your fingertips. is a financial platform that streamlines bookkeeping operations, so you can focus on what really matters—delivering high-quality results for your clients. With Hub's easy-to-use tools, you’ll save time, reduce errors, and gain deeper insights into your clients' financials! Ready to take your bookkeeping to the next level?
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EP458: Spotlight - Karen Ainley - Mastering Automation To Elevate Client Relationships
02/06/2025
EP458: Spotlight - Karen Ainley - Mastering Automation To Elevate Client Relationships
“I don't see a world where the profession of accounting is totally taken over by AI. There'll always be that need for human touch and validation because we do audits and we need to make sure that we get their taxes right. So I would just say, embrace it, think about how it's going to give you that better work-life balance, and then just go for it. Give it a try.” -Karen Ainley Karen Ainley, Head of the Accountants Business Unit at Sage, dives into how AI, automation, and digitization are transforming the bookkeeping and accounting profession. She shares key insights from the Practice of Now report, offering practical advice on embracing change, building client relationships, and staying competitive in a rapidly evolving industry. In this interview, you'll learn: How AI & automation enhance efficiency & client service The shifting role of bookkeepers from historical reporting to advisory services Why client expectations demand tech-savvy professionals today Connect with Karen on . Time Stamp: 01:19 - Overview of the Practice of Now report 02:13 - Key findings: skills, AI & client relationships 03:36 - How AI improves workloads & work-life balance 06:18 - Evolving client expectations & demand for tech-savvy services 09:01 - Global tax digitization trends & their impact 13:08 - Shift to subscription models & value-based pricing 16:59 - Advisory services replacing traditional bookkeeping 19:25 - How small practices can compete with AI tools 21:40 - Sage Copilot’s features: anomaly detection & automation 26:00 - Karen’s advice: embrace technology & take action 27:39 - How Sage supports bookkeepers with tools & resources 29:16 - Closing remarks & resources for listeners This episode is brought to you by our great friends at Sage! On February 13th at 12pm ET, Sage will be presenting its webinar, , to our community. It'll cover The Practice of Now global insights study to help you plan your role and practice for the future. During this webinar, you’ll learn: Current trends that are changing the profession The biggest opportunity to take in the next 12 months Key actions that all accountants and bookkeepers should be considering Plus much more! before it's too late!
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EP457: Jessica Fox - The Secrets To Stress-Free Bookkeeping
02/04/2025
EP457: Jessica Fox - The Secrets To Stress-Free Bookkeeping
“I put my clients on notice in the first week of December. All of my clients get an email blast so that they know what to expect, and that helps so much. So we are having this conversation now in the third week of January. All of my clients who gave me their information are tax-ready. And I could not have said that five years ago.” -Jessica Fox Jessica Fox, founder of Florida Virtual Bookkeeper, shares how she transformed her business with systems that simplify tax season and prioritize work-life balance. From implementing proactive workflows to setting clear client boundaries, Jessica reveals how these changes have allowed her to thrive in her career and personal life. In this interview, you'll learn: How to turn tax season into a year-round, stress-free process The importance of clear client boundaries & communication Strategies for maintaining work-life balance while running a bookkeeping business To find out more about Jessica, click . Connect with here on and . Learn about The Pure Bookkeeping System . Time Stamp 00:38 - Evolving systems & nurturing a community 01:27 - The importance of treating tax season as a year-round process 04:08 - Implementing the Pure Bookkeeping System 07:03 - Strategies for requesting information & avoiding bottlenecks 09:35 - Ensuring a healthy work-life balance 13:19 - Setting boundaries by creating systems & focusing on clear communication 15:23 - Saying “no” to unrealistic client expectations & charging rush fees 18:50 - Celebrating stress-free tax seasons & prioritizing vacations 20:17 - Handling client re-homing & transitioning 24:24 - Upcoming goals 27:51 - Connect with Jessica & join her bookkeeping systems lounge
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EP456: Nancy Gwynne-Vaughan - Overcoming Small Business Challenges
01/28/2025
EP456: Nancy Gwynne-Vaughan - Overcoming Small Business Challenges
“And so I went through all of the little folders and things that I had stored different goals, and I pulled them all into one place and had a whole week to really think about what I wanted my goals to be for next year. And that brought tremendous clarity.” -Nancy Gwynne-Vaughan In this episode, Nancy Gwynne-Vaughan, President of Graham Consulting & Training Inc., explores the realities of running a small business in the bookkeeping sector, offering insights on overcoming challenges, creating effective systems, and setting purposeful goals. She underscores the importance of adaptability, continuous learning, and support systems in navigating the complexities of business ownership. To learn more about Nancy, click . Connect with her on . If you need help building systems in your business, visit . Time Stamp: 00:39 - The constant unpredictability & challenges of running a small business 03:01 - Building systems, managing staff effectively & creating a supportive team 04:54 - Reflecting on the past year & planning actionable steps for success 09:05 - Breaking down annual goals into quarterly & weekly plans 13:20 - How goal-setting & positive thinking can shape business outcomes 17:45 - Balancing personal & business goals 24:32 - Preparing for challenges 31:23 - Building a reliable team & leveraging tools 36:35 - Maintaining an entrepreneurial growth mindset 42:19 - Insights on lifelong learning, embracing change & finding fulfilment
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EP455: Leslee Hickerson - How Niche Expertise Transforms Bookkeeping Businesses
01/21/2025
EP455: Leslee Hickerson - How Niche Expertise Transforms Bookkeeping Businesses
“I had no niche. I didn't know what I wanted to do. I knew the clients I really didn't like to work with. But they were also talking about, ‘You got to find your niche.’ And I'm like, ‘How do you find a niche?’” -Leslee Hickerson Leslee Hickerson shares her inspiring journey from a small Ontario town to becoming a successful bookkeeper and consultant specializing in law firms. She reflects on her challenges during the pandemic, her transformative decision to join the Pure Bookkeeping community, and the importance of finding clarity and direction through a niche focus in her business. In this interview, you'll learn: The benefits of specializing in a niche for business success The value of certification in elevating your bookkeeping career Tips for conquering imposter syndrome & embracing growth opportunities Connect with Leslee on . Time Stamp: 00:53 - Leslee's Journey into Bookkeeping 05:58 - Navigating Challenges During COVID 11:56 - Finding Community & Support 17:59 - Narrowing Down to a Niche 24:00 - Transitioning to Advisory Services 29:52 - Overcoming Imposter Syndrome 36:05 - The Importance of Certification & Education
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EP454 - Keila Hill-Trawick - The Value of Prioritizing Relationships, Quality & Growth
01/14/2025
EP454 - Keila Hill-Trawick - The Value of Prioritizing Relationships, Quality & Growth
“You think that you're competing against other accountants, but for people who are just starting, you're competing against ‘free’. As far as they're concerned, ‘I've been doing my bookkeeping and I was doing fine and it didn't cost me anything, so why should I pay you?’” -Keila Hill-Trawick In this episode, Kyla Hill Treywick, founder and CEO of Little Fish Accounting, shares her journey into accounting and the lessons learned while building a thriving firm. She highlights the value of client relationships, effective team building, and maintaining a strong company culture to drive success. In this episode, you’ll learn… How to overcome challenges in starting & scaling a business with a quality-first approach Building a strong team & company culture Embracing industry trends focused on collaboration & connection To learn more about Keila, connect with her on . Check out her company website . Time Stamp 01:37 - Keila’s career shift from corporate roles to launching an accounting firm 04:02 - Starting a business & refining services 07:44 - Overcoming challenges 12:20 - Evolving sales process 18:17 - Importance of diagnostics & addressing client needs up front 23:21 - Transitioning to relationship-focused services 26:28 - Prioritizing sustainable growth & intentional scaling 29:44 - Growing a remote team, managing turnover & fostering a strong company culture 34:27 - Embracing trends like collaboration, niching & human connection in accounting
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EP453: Stephanie Skryzowski - Building Impactful Strategies & Stronger Organizations
01/07/2025
EP453: Stephanie Skryzowski - Building Impactful Strategies & Stronger Organizations
“As a business owner, as an entrepreneur, I feel like there are 50 million things that I want and need to do all the time. So I find it very easy to get distracted. So I think about what are the top things that I need to put my attention towards, what are the biggest things that I want. I've got this little sign on my wall up there, ‘Where your attention goes, the energy flows.’ And that has really helped keep me sort of focused. ” -Stephanie Skryzowski In this episode, Stephanie Skryzowski, founder and CEO of 100 Degrees Consulting, shares her inspirational journey from aspiring lawyer to leading a global consulting firm for nonprofits. Stephanie discusses how her passion for finance and impactful causes led her to create a thriving business, her innovative strategies for scaling her team, and the lessons she learned from challenges along the way. In this episode, you’ll learn... Overcoming scope creep & setting boundaries for growth Scaling a remote team while maintaining a mission-driven focus Key lessons in building a niche business with robust systems To learn more about Stephanie, click . Connect with her on , and . Listen to the Prosperous Nonprofit Podcast . Time Stamp 01:03 - Stephanie’s nonprofit finance journey 02:01 - Career pivot from corporate law to nonprofit financial management 07:01 - Importance of accurate bookkeeping for nonprofit growth 10:31 - Landing first clients through targeted outreach 14:01 - Scaling challenges: scope creep, pricing & team growth 27:31 - Team structure changes & effective delegation 32:01 - Lessons from selling a business segment & niche focus 37:01 - Book recommendations, reflections & advice for business owners
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EP452: 2024 Year-In-Review Show!
12/31/2024
EP452: 2024 Year-In-Review Show!
Kick off your new year with inspiration and actionable insights in this special year-end episode! Host, Michael Palmer welcomes an exceptional panel of industry leaders for an engaging conversation reflecting on the trends, triumphs, and challenges of 2024! From unexpected industry shifts to personal stories of resilience and powerful client success transformations, this episode dives deep into the strategies that have shaped bookkeeping businesses globally. Packed with valuable takeaways, this discussion sets the stage for a productive and impactful 2025! A heartfelt thank you to all of our amazing listeners for being part of our journey this year. YOU are the reason this show exists, and we’re so grateful for your support. We wish you a joyful and prosperous New Year! To find out more about our guests, click below: To explore Pure Bookkeeping, visit . Time Stamp 02:10 - Biggest Surprises of 2024 06:30 - Setbacks in 2024 12:40 - Heartwarming Client Success Stories 18:50 - Key Strategies for Success in 2024 27:10 - Trends in 2024 and Predictions for 2025 40:25 - Focus and Vision for 2025 54:50 - What’s Ahead This episode is brought to you by our great friends at ! What if you couldn’t work tomorrow? Who would step in to manage your clients and keep your income flowing? That’s where Succession Security comes in. Think of it as ‘insurance’ that pays out in labor. If an unexpected emergency strikes—whether it’s an illness, accident, or even a family crisis—Succession Security ensures your business keeps running. They step in to manage operations, communicate with clients, and protect everything you’ve built. Learn more and start your business continuity plan today at .
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EP451: Doreen Binkiewicz - Succession Strategies For Long-Term Growth
12/24/2024
EP451: Doreen Binkiewicz - Succession Strategies For Long-Term Growth
“If somebody else can't operate your business and you can't transfer the value that you currently have in your business to that other person and allow them to operate it, your business is not ready. And so succession planning should be something that every business owner does every day because if they don't do it every day, you're not ready. You're going to miss something along the way.” -Doreen Binkiewicz Doreen Binkiewicz, owner of DGL Business Solutions, shares her journey of growing a thriving bookkeeping business while balancing the demands of family life. She delves into the power of systems, effective hiring strategies, and succession planning to build a business that is both scalable and transferable. In this interview, you’ll learn: Strategies for building a client base through referrals The critical role of succession planning in ensuring business continuity The importance of implementing systems to enhance business value and readiness for transition To learn more about Doreen and DGL Bookkeeping Solutions, click . Connect with her on . To explore Pure Bookkeeping, visit . Time Stamp 01:09 - Doreen’s introduction to ProfitCon and her journey 02:48 - Building a family-focused bookkeeping business with time-blocking 04:50 - Adopting Pure Bookkeeping and Profit First systems 07:28 - Enhancing hiring practices and recovering post-COVID 09:16 - Gaining clients through referrals and building a strong team 13:32 - Diving into succession planning and business transitions 15:40 - The four pillars of effective succession planning 20:44 - Importance of early succession planning for sustainability 28:31 - Transitioning business segments through succession planning 35:20 - Expanding into advisory services alongside bookkeeping
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EP450: Rhamy Alejeal - How To Scale HR Operations & Reduce Risk
12/17/2024
EP450: Rhamy Alejeal - How To Scale HR Operations & Reduce Risk
“Like, suddenly it’s, ‘Uh, yeah, I agreed to do your payroll, and now you’re asking me to get all this paperwork filled out for the employee.’ Or, ‘Oh, you do my payroll, can you handle the workers’ comp?’ Or, ‘Hey, you said you do payroll, can you track what job every single employee works on at any given moment?’ And that creep of scope is tough, especially because I’m a bit of a people pleaser. I had real trouble just saying, ‘No, you didn’t pay for that.’” -Rhamy Alejeal Rhamy Alejeal discusses how financial professionals can support businesses in navigating HR challenges. He shares insights on scaling HR operations, mitigating risk, and enhancing efficiency through partnerships and specialization. In this interview, you'll learn: How HR services reduce risk and increase return on labor The crucial role of financial professionals in addressing compliance How partnerships enhance services while avoiding risk and scope creep Connect with Rhamy on and . Click here to learn more about . Time Stamp: 05:57 - Challenges in Scaling HR Operations 11:53 - Navigating Client Needs and Referrals 17:52 - Partnership Opportunities for Bookkeepers 23:53 - Broadening Discovery for Client Needs 29:55 - Conclusion and Resources
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EP449: Kimme Lafayette - Overcoming Barriers In Bookkeeping Business
12/10/2024
EP449: Kimme Lafayette - Overcoming Barriers In Bookkeeping Business
“I think being ready to change your processes or adapt to processes, finding new efficiencies—that is a constant growth. Even if you're happy with the level that you're at, the revenue level that you're at, and you're not looking to grow or expand, things will still change and evolve with your processes and with technology. So I think it's really important to be open and accepting of that.” -Kimme Lafayette Kimme Lafayette, owner of Beyond Bookkeeping Business Services, reveals her journey from accounting student to business owner, sharing the lessons she learned about overcoming challenges like pricing and client relationships. With a focus on value pricing, mentorship, and community, she offers actionable advice to help bookkeepers grow and succeed in their own businesses. During this interview, you'll learn: Tips for adapting & thriving in a changing industry How value pricing can elevate your bookkeeping business The secrets to fostering strong client relationships To learn more about Kimme, click . Connect with her on . Time Stamp: 02:21 - Journey to Bookkeeping 06:13 - Starting a Business by Accident 10:41 - Overcoming Initial Barriers 14:44 - Transitioning to Value Pricing 19:23 - Facing Fear & Taking Action 21:48 - Advice for New Bookkeepers 25:34 - The Importance of Community 29:31 - Adaptability in Business 32:35 - Conclusion & Future Directions
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EP448: Mike Jones - The Power Of Authentic Branding
12/03/2024
EP448: Mike Jones - The Power Of Authentic Branding
“One of the things we kept running into was we would look at brands, we would look at firms, look at what they're doing and go, ‘Wow, this just isn't different. This is very copycat.’ It's very similar to what everyone else is doing.” -Mike Jones Mike Jones, CEO and managing partner of ReSound, highlights the critical role of branding and differentiation in the professional services sector, with a focus on accounting and bookkeeping. Drawing from the Remarca Brand Index, he shares key insights on avoiding common branding pitfalls, embracing authenticity, and taking practical steps to stand out in a competitive market. During this interview, you'll learn: How branding goes beyond visuals to focus on strategy & messaging Why differentiation is essential for success in a competitive market The impact of small, thoughtful changes on brand perception To learn more about ReSound, click . Connect with Mike on . Time Stamp: 01:45 - Introduction to Branding & Marketing Strategies 06:13 - The Remarca Brand Index: Insights & Data Collection 11:47 - Leveraging the Remarca Brand Index for Improvement 18:00 - The Role of Authenticity in Branding 23:47 - Conclusion & Resources for Further Learning This episode is brought to you by our great friends at Sage! With the new Sage for Accountants, you can automate daily tasks and unlock not only more efficiency, but more time for valuable client collaboration all in one place! Learn more or get started for free at the below link.
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EP447: Nina Sossamon-Pogue - How To Transform Challenges Into Opportunities
11/26/2024
EP447: Nina Sossamon-Pogue - How To Transform Challenges Into Opportunities
“And to my framework that I offer folks is, what is that? How do we always find a path forward? What do we do when these things hit? How do we keep moving forward when we just feel like, ‘I just can't flippin do this anymore. It is just too much.’” -Nina Sossamon-Pogue Nina Sossamon-Pogue, a former USA gymnast turned Emmy-winning news anchor and tech executive, shares her powerful story of resilience and transformation. She explores pivotal moments in her career, from overcoming gymnastics injuries to transitioning between vastly different industries, offering strategies to navigate change with purpose. Nina introduces her 'this' concept for categorizing challenges and emphasizes the importance of self-awareness in managing stress and thriving through adversity. In this interview, you’ll learn: How to turn adversity into growth opportunities Practical strategies for handling life & career transitions The 'this' concept for breaking down & managing challenges Tune in to discover actionable tools for transforming challenges into stepping stones and confidently embracing life's uncertainties. To learn more about Nina, click . Connect with her on , , or . TimeStamp: 01:40 - Nina's Journey: From Gymnastics to Tech 10:49 - Resilience Through Adversity 14:28 - Helping Others Navigate Change 25:10 - Understanding 'This': The Challenges We Face 29:41 - Finding Your Path Forward
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EP446: Dida Clifton - Secrets To Building A Thriving Bookkeeping Business
11/19/2024
EP446: Dida Clifton - Secrets To Building A Thriving Bookkeeping Business
“Set your rules, stick to your rules, and only take clients that play by the rules. We call it rules of engagement.“ -Dida Clifton Dida Clifton, a former US Air Force veteran and founder of The Office Squad, shares her inspiring journey from military operations to running a successful bookkeeping business. She opens up about tackling challenges like pricing, hiring, and networking while revealing how her military background shaped her leadership style and company culture. In this interview, you’ll discover: Proven pricing strategies to reflect your true value Smart hiring & training practices to build a strong, aligned team How outsourcing can help you scale without sacrificing quality Tune in to learn actionable strategies to overcome challenges, build your dream team, and create a flexible, scalable business model for long-term success. To find out more about Dida . Time Stamps 00:40 - From Military to Business: Dida's Journey 02:45 - Building the Office Squad: Strategies & Growth 06:45 - Pricing Strategies: Lessons Learned 09:15 - Networking: The Key to Business Growth 12:51 - Peer Groups: Support & Growth 14:49 - Military Influence: Leadership & Culture 19:58 - Systems & Processes: The Military Way 22:15 - Hiring & Culture: Finding the Right Fit 24:39 - Outsourcing: A Different Approach 27:53 - The Future of Bookkeeping: A Hybrid Model This episode is brought to you by our great friends at ! Imagine having all your financial data in one place, with real-time analytics and customized reports at your fingertips. is a financial platform that streamlines bookkeeping operations, so you can focus on what really matters—delivering high-quality results for your clients. With Hub's easy-to-use tools, you’ll save time, reduce errors, and gain deeper insights into your clients' financials! Ready to take your bookkeeping to the next level?
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EP445: Bernadette McClelland - Embrace Adversity To Fuel Your Success
11/12/2024
EP445: Bernadette McClelland - Embrace Adversity To Fuel Your Success
“What I now do is I change the word 'problem' to the word 'situation' and when I change that one word, it just flips something in my brain where I can now work on it and it turns it into something objective and something almost like, ‘okay, I can do something about this now’.” -Bernadette McClelland Sales coach and consultant, Bernadette McClelland shares her powerful journey from corporate sales to entrepreneurship, revealing the hard-earned lessons learned from overcoming bankruptcy and self-doubt. During this interview, you'll also learn… Actionable insights on building resilience, reframing challenges & viewing disruption as an opportunity for growth Shift from selling to serving Ways to build a strong support network & commit to continuous improvement Tune in to this inspiring episode to discover how to turn setbacks into stepping stones and transform your approach to business and life! To find out more about Bernadette, click . Connect with her on . Time Stamps 02:57 - Journey Through Corporate to Consultancy 05:56 - Lessons from Bankruptcy 09:11 - Reframing Problems as Situations 11:53 - The Power of Disruption 15:00 - Embracing Anti-Fragility 18:04 - The Evolution of Business Mindset 26:40 - Embracing the Present & Future Mindset 30:58 - The Importance of Mental Downtime 39:03 - Transforming Sales into Service
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EP444: Linda Ugelow - How To Overcome The Fear Of Public Speaking
11/05/2024
EP444: Linda Ugelow - How To Overcome The Fear Of Public Speaking
"The fear of speaking isn't a random thing, but rather it's pointing to experiences in our past that led us to believe it's not safe." -Linda Ugelow In this episode, we’re joined by Linda Ugelow, a speaking empowerment coach and author of Delight In The Limelight, who turned her own fear of public speaking into a mission to help others find their voice. Linda shares the key mindset shifts that build confidence, showing how confronting past experiences and silencing negative self-talk can unlock powerful communication skills. In this interview, you'll learn how to... Conquer public speaking fears through self-reflection Replace negative self-talk for better communication Improve speaking with better posture, voice & delivery Whether you want to feel more at ease in front of an audience or in daily conversations, her insights are invaluable for anyone looking to speak with greater confidence and clarity. To find out more about Linda, click . Connect with her on . Time Stamps 00:20 - The Importance of public speaking 03:13 - Linda's journey & the root causes of fear 08:55 - Clearing past experiences & healing the inner critic 16:32 - Enhancing communication skills: posture, voice & delivery 23:43 - The impact of effective communication on personal & business relationships 29:16 - Linda's book & podcast
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EP443: Lauren Shippy - Aligning Purpose & Priorities: A Roadmap To Business Mastery
10/29/2024
EP443: Lauren Shippy - Aligning Purpose & Priorities: A Roadmap To Business Mastery
"I just remember thinking even early in my life like I want to be able to help people figure out their path someday and create successful businesses." -Lauren Shippy In this episode, we dive into the entrepreneurial journey of Lauren Shippy, founder of StoryWork, as she reveals the secrets behind her success. During this interview, you'll learn: The importance of a clear vision & purpose for business success How aligning time and priorities reduces distractions The role of habits and routines in reaching goals Whether you're a seasoned business owner or just starting out, this conversation is packed with insights into the power of habits, routines, and strategic clarity! To find out more about Lauren, click . Connect with with her on . Time Stamps 00:43 - Lauren discusses her background & career journey 03:14 - Finding clarity & strategy in business 08:22 - The importance of leadership & adaptability 10:23 - Eliminating distractions & staying focused 18:32 - The power of habits & routines 24:38 - Valuable resources for business owners
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EP442: Spotlight - Tommy Vincent - How To Leverage AI For Business Success
10/24/2024
EP442: Spotlight - Tommy Vincent - How To Leverage AI For Business Success
“I actually feel like AI is going to level the playing field for smaller firms, more than ever before. That’s an incredible thing, I think it’s an amazing opportunity in front of us.” -Tommy Vincent The window of change gets shorter every day, and this can leave us feeling pressured to keep up, or frustrated that no sooner have we caught up, than the next innovation is speeding away from us again. While it’s true technology is racing ahead on an exponential curve, we don’t have to. We don’t have to know how to build apps, read code or create the next step in technological development. We just have to get good at finding things that work for us and leveraging them before our competitors do. While you can use AI to replace people, the quality of the work won't be as good. AI, at its best, will help us accelerate our system of checks and business processes to give us back our time. More time away from the mundane leaves more time for the things you love to do. Tommy Vincent, VP of Sales at Hub Analytics, is this spotlight episode’s special guest. He has spent his career helping businesses understand their complex needs, and then align them with the right solutions. During this interview, you'll learn... The value of AI in levelling the playing field How to leverage technology in your business The importance of embracing technology as it shifts If you are curious about the future, worried about the pace of change, or just want to free up more time in your business, then this is the episode to get you leaning into technology in the way that works best for you! To find out more about Tommy, click . Connect with him on . Time Stamps 01:26 - Tommy discusses his career journey 03:40 - The future of bookkeeping 06:00 - Embracing technology shifts 07:50 - Levelling the playing field 18:11 - Leveraging technology 26:17 - How Hub Analytics can help you thrive 31:40 - Learning more This episode is brought to you by our great friends at ! Imagine having all your financial data in one place, with real-time analytics and customized reports at your fingertips. is a financial platform that streamlines bookkeeping operations, so you can focus on what really matters—delivering high-quality results for your clients. With Hub's easy-to-use tools, you’ll save time, reduce errors, and gain deeper insights into your clients' financials! Ready to take your bookkeeping to the next level?
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EP441: Tiffany Cagwin - Your Long Term Health: Treating The Cause, Not The Symptoms
10/22/2024
EP441: Tiffany Cagwin - Your Long Term Health: Treating The Cause, Not The Symptoms
“Everybody has to find their own way to reduce their stress…what works for me may not work for you.” -Tiffany Cagwin We all experience stress, it is a fact of modern life. But our bodies cannot adapt to our changing world at the same place as the demands we place upon them. There comes a time when we all have to stop and ask ourselves if everything we are grinding for is truly worth the cost to our health and well-being. There is nothing wrong with working hard to provide the kind of life for ourselves and our families that we have always dreamed of. But there needs to be balance, making it to the goal, but realizing we are in pieces is often the final nail in our sense of physical and mental well-being. Tiffany Cagwin, executive leader and transformation coach, is this episode’s featured guest. She has spent her career applying her skills, knowledge and life experiences to help others find better long-term health. During this interview, you'll learn... The value of making small changes for a big difference How stress is impacting our health The importance of listening to your health, not everyone else’s Whether you are already doing your best to work through health challenges, or just starting to notice things are getting harder, this episode will help you! To find out more about Tiffany, click . Connect with her on . Time Stamps 01:33 - Tiffany discusses her career journey 08:33 - Coming to terms with life’s challenges 10:42 - Managing our stresses 18:23 - Getting back on track 26:51 - No one size fits all 34:50 - Learning more about Tiffany This episode is brought to you by our great friends at Dext! Dext captures your clients’ data with incredible accuracy and deliver it seamlessly into your workflow, integrating with over 30 accounting softwares. Imagine having more time to focus on what truly matters, like helping your clients, growing your firm, or taking a well-deserved break. With Dext, you can trust that data is accurately extracted, categorized, and submitted every time. Are you ready to streamline your bookkeeping processes? Join thousands of accountants and bookkeepers in the Dext community. Go to to book a demo today and see how Dext can make your work life easier!
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