The Unique CPA
The Unique CPA is the show where we’re going beyond compliance into forging new pathways of delivering value to clients, diversifying your revenue streams, and leading edge management techniques and styles. We’re keeping you at the forefront of the changing face of public accounting with fascinating leaders, bringing you their stories and advice inside the accounting industry.
info_outline
One Step at a Time: Making Tech Work for You
04/23/2024
One Step at a Time: Making Tech Work for You
Byron Patrick of the B³ Method Institute joins Randy for Episode 153 of The Unique CPA, and they delve into Byron's transition from an “okay accountant” to a technology expert. Byron is passionate about well-being and its interplay with the profession, and he and Randy discuss the key that technology can improve efficiency, which eliminates the stresses and time sinks of the job, which leads to better work-life balance, but he holistically broadens his focus to things each person can do for themselves, too. That said, he shares information on AI tools like Bard, ChatGPT, and more, discussing their impact, ultimately stressing that making incremental, small changes is all you need to do to improve your workflow in this rapidly changing technological arena. Get the full show notes and more resources at
/episode/index/show/theuniquecpa/id/30937163
info_outline
Maximizing Value in Your Niche
04/16/2024
Maximizing Value in Your Niche
sits down with Chris Farmand of Small Batch Standard on Episode 152 of The Unique CPA. They delve into the complexities and financial management gaps in the brewing industry, and how that relates to niching principles generally: the importance of deep relationships, industry concentration, and adapting to market changes. Lead generation, value pricing, and client transitions feature as well, with Chris reviewing the experiences he’s had in running Small Batch Standard. Get the full show notes and more resources at
/episode/index/show/theuniquecpa/id/30829163
info_outline
Not Just the Endgame: Exit Planning
04/09/2024
Not Just the Endgame: Exit Planning
On Episode 151 of The Unique CPA, Darryl Bates-Brownsword joins to discuss the importance of succession planning and its associated challenges. They delve into the benefits of early exit planning, with Darryl identifying the transition from selling hours to value-based service offerings as a key obstacle. Ultimately, exit planning is vital for businesses, and for CPAs looking to boost their advisory offerings, Darryl’s platform Capitaliz provides a guided way to do just that. Get the full show notes and more resources at
/episode/index/show/theuniquecpa/id/30737143
info_outline
A Modern Firm for Modern Startups
04/02/2024
A Modern Firm for Modern Startups
Curt Mastio, who established Founder’s CPA, joins for Episode 150 of The Unique CPA. They delve into Curt's transition from Big Four to his own firm, the complexities of dealing with the blockchain and crypto industries, and FinTech niche and the unique challenges it presents for accountants. They also discuss modern firm practices, tax planning strategies including utilizing R&D tax credits, and the journey of tech startups from seed stage to exit. Get the full show notes and more resources at
/episode/index/show/theuniquecpa/id/30562503
info_outline
The Ideal Practice Model
03/26/2024
The Ideal Practice Model
On Episode 149 of The Unique CPA, Joe Woodard joins to discuss hot topics like the Private Equity revolution in accounting and the Scaling New Heights conference coming up in Orlando in June. Joe introduces the Woodard Ideal Practice Model, a multi-partite plan for firms to both determine and differentiate their services, and he offers wisdom about the difference between management and leadership. They discuss Scaling New Heights in some detail, mentioning the talk Randy will be giving on firm growth and culture at the event. Get the full show notes and more resources at
/episode/index/show/theuniquecpa/id/30527118
info_outline
The Evolving Role of State Societies
03/19/2024
The Evolving Role of State Societies
Randy Crabtree talks to Jen Cryder, CEO of PICPA, the Pennsylvania Institute of Certified Public Accountants, on Episode 148 of The Unique CPA. They discuss the role of state societies in accounting, with a focus on bringing some of the ideas that larger firms have come up with to smaller firms and adapting those ideas to fit. Jen draws on her extensive experience as an audit senior and partner to touch on company culture, preserving that through mergers, and the opportunities that are in front of firms to deal with and thrive through the staffing crisis. PICPA's vision involves human capital, innovation in startups, and offering a wealth of support and resources to firms of all sizes. Randy probes Jen's thoughts on salary transparency, work-life balance, and leveraging technology in the tax profession. Get the full show notes and more resources at
/episode/index/show/theuniquecpa/id/30417833
info_outline
How to Found the Firm You Want
03/12/2024
How to Found the Firm You Want
In this episode, Randy Crabtree chats with Al-Nesha Jones, founder of ASE Group, about her career transition, starting her own firm, and the lessons she learned to get it to where it is today. ASE Group serves as a beacon of DEI, employing full-time mothers and championing a four-day workweek with empowered employees and flexible schedules based on value billing that isn’t timesheet based. Al-Nesha discusses many of the stumbles she had along the way, resulting in improving firm processes, managing client expectations during COVID-19, the role of advisory services, and creating a firm that truly allows for proper work-life balance. Get the full show notes and more resources at
/episode/index/show/theuniquecpa/id/30318483
info_outline
Carving Your Own Path: From Academia to Tax
03/05/2024
Carving Your Own Path: From Academia to Tax
On Episode 146 of The Unique CPA, is joined by Jeremy Wells, founder of JWellsCFO, to discuss Jeremy’s transition from grad school and earning a PhD, into a teaching career in academia, then changing careers mid-stream, resulting in him earning and maintaining both his EA and CPA. Jeremy’s and his transition from teaching to tax advising was multi-faceted, and buffeted by a mentor who helped “show him the ropes” as he made his way, while also giving him insights into the kind of firm he wanted to run. Jeremy highlights the challenges and rewards of self-employment and the importance of identifying the right clients for your niche. Get the full show notes and more resources at
/episode/index/show/theuniquecpa/id/30217643
info_outline
Conferences and Community: Bringing Accountants Together
02/27/2024
Conferences and Community: Bringing Accountants Together
welcomes Accounting Today Editor-in-Chief Dan Hood back to The Unique CPA on Episode 145 to discuss the significance of community in the accounting profession. They explore the shift to other forms of communication and education that has developed over the past several years, from social media to webinars, then shift gears to focus on the good, old-fashioned conference: their value for community building, and the role of conversation and direct, personal interaction generally, in professional development. In the process, they provide all the details for Accounting Today’s and Tri-Merit’s for 2024. Get the full show notes and more resources at
/episode/index/show/theuniquecpa/id/30098998
info_outline
Private Equity's Impact: The Future of Accounting
02/20/2024
Private Equity's Impact: The Future of Accounting
On Episode 144 of The Unique CPA, chats with Tim Petrey, CEO of HD Growth Partners and White Glove Payroll. They delve into the impact of Private Equity on accounting through an examination of the newly announced strategic partnership between HD Growth Partners and ASCEND. Tim strongly believes that the Private Equity model provides for a new paradigm in the accounting profession, and with the right partnership, a progressive firm with solid foundations of corporate culture and client service can grow precipitously, powered by Private Equity’s “rocket fuel”, and safeguard itself against the “coming storm” that will affect the prospects of everyone across the profession in the coming years. Get the full show notes and more resources at
/episode/index/show/theuniquecpa/id/30014548
info_outline
Being Yourself at Work: Blissful Balance
02/13/2024
Being Yourself at Work: Blissful Balance
On Episode 143 of The Unique CPA, Randy Crabtree chats with Amy Vetter about her diverse roles both inside and outside her career life, and the value of authenticity. A CPA, a yoga instructor, a technology business executive, an author, and more, Amy discusses her experiences with identity and career transitions, and the Business Balance Bliss concept she constructed as a result. Amy goes into her work at the B³ Method Institute, her achievements as a Certified Speaking Professional, and the programs she’s developed to make work-life “harmony,” rather than just balance, an achievable goal for CPA firms. Get the full show notes and more resources at
/episode/index/show/theuniquecpa/id/29905748
info_outline
Big Changes in the ERC for 2024
02/06/2024
Big Changes in the ERC for 2024
On Episode 142 of The Unique CPA, we take a look back at Tri-Merit’s Live Chat featuring Randy Crabtree, Nick Pantaleo, and Dan Chodan discussing the changes in the Employer Retention Credit (ERC), the impact of the moratorium, and the benefits of the amnesty and voluntary disclosure programs for the coming year. They delve into the Tax Relief for American Families and Workers Act of 2024, risks of litigation, and the importance of detailed filing. They conclude with an analysis of the new bill's expanded aspects and the need for voluntary disclosure. Get the full show notes and more resources at
/episode/index/show/theuniquecpa/id/29811283
info_outline
Strategize and Thrive: Marketing for Accountants
01/30/2024
Strategize and Thrive: Marketing for Accountants
On Episode 141 of The Unique CPA, join as he takes a dive into the dynamic world of accounting marketing with the insightful Karen Reyburn of The Profitable Firm. As a CPA turned marketing guru, Karen shares her expertise on effective client education, the power of niche marketing, and how accountants can leverage AI to transform their practices. Explore the importance of understanding your audience, the benefits of choosing a specific focus, and how to ensure your firm stands out in a crowded market. Whether you're looking to refine your marketing strategy or you’re curious about the future impact of tech, this episode is full of actionable advice and forward-thinking ideas. Get the full show notes and more resources at
/episode/index/show/theuniquecpa/id/29710988
info_outline
Providing Knowledge, Not a Service
01/23/2024
Providing Knowledge, Not a Service
On Episode 140 of The Unique CPA, fellow podcast host Ed Kless of the Sage Thought Leadership podcast and The Soul of Enterprise with Ron Baker, talks to about the importance of the shift from traditional to value-based pricing, knowing your target market, and the fact that what you are offering is access to knowledge, not a service. They delve into the implementation of subscription pricing and transitioning from a generalist to a specialist or niched firm. Get the full show notes and more resources at
/episode/index/show/theuniquecpa/id/29593228
info_outline
The Lowdown on B Corp Benefits
01/16/2024
The Lowdown on B Corp Benefits
Matthew May, the president of Acuity, returns to The Unique CPA on Episode 139, and he gives the insider’s perspective on Benefit Corporations, better known as B Corps. Acuity started the process of being recognized as a B Corp in 2020, and Matthew talks about the community that surrounds B Corps, the employee-centric image being a B Corp projects, and the difficulty that faces service firms that wish to become B Corps because they don’t have physical supply chains. Get the full show notes and more resources at
/episode/index/show/theuniquecpa/id/29490053
info_outline
Niche, Specialization and Success: Making Accounting Interesting
01/09/2024
Niche, Specialization and Success: Making Accounting Interesting
On Episode 138 of The Unique CPA, Randy Crabtree chats with Greg Kyte about his unusual journey in accounting. From the controversies around the CPE available for listening to his Drunk Ethics podcast, as well as Oh My Fraud, another podcast Greg co-hosts, they discuss the importance of finding a niche in accounting in order to make yourself, and your work, more interesting—which has a cascading beneficial effect on everything you do. Get the full show notes and more resources at
/episode/index/show/theuniquecpa/id/29389523
info_outline
Building a Community for Accounting Entrepreneurs
01/02/2024
Building a Community for Accounting Entrepreneurs
The first episode of The Unique CPA in 2024, Episode 137, features Jason Blumer of Blumer CPAs, Thriveal, and Deeper Weekend. Jason started Thriveal to support accounting firm owners by building a community and resources for them to seek support. As he tells , this led to Deeper Weekend, his exclusive annual conference for around a hundred accounting firm owners. The event fosters peer learning and relationships through workshops and socializing, with the fundamental idea behind it being that people have had successes and mistakes before you and there are always things to discover by building connections with them. Get the full show notes and more resources at
/episode/index/show/theuniquecpa/id/29279703
info_outline
Streamlining Your Practice: Complete Integration
12/19/2023
Streamlining Your Practice: Complete Integration
Episode 136 of The Unique CPA features Ilya Radzinsky, co-founder of TaxDome, talking to about how TaxDome’s practice management platform helps accounting firms organize their work, clients, and teams in an efficient yet easy-to-use way. TaxDome streamlines workflows, provides visibility for managers, and creates a professional client experience through their secure online portal. Ilya also shares insights on embracing technology to add value for clients and how in addition to the increase in efficiency, digitizing a practice can increase its sales value. Get the full show notes and more resources at
/episode/index/show/theuniquecpa/id/29134063
info_outline
Opening up About Mental Health: A Path to Wellbeing
12/12/2023
Opening up About Mental Health: A Path to Wellbeing
Episode 135 of The Unique CPA features the important topic of mental health in the accounting profession. Gaynor Meilke talks to about her experience with mental health struggles from a young age and how she now helps others, including children, tackle their challenges. She provides insights into the stressors accounting professionals face and signs of burnout. Randy also opens up about his personal journey with mental health after experiencing a stroke. They emphasize the importance of self-care, finding your passions, and getting help when needed. Through this candid conversation, they both hope to shine a light on a longstanding problem facing not just the accounting profession, but people in all walks of life. Get the full show notes and more resources at
/episode/index/show/theuniquecpa/id/29019823
info_outline
People Advisory: The Next Evolution in Payroll Services
12/05/2023
People Advisory: The Next Evolution in Payroll Services
Randy Crabtree gets together with Will Lopez of Gusto on Episode 134 of The Unique CPA to talk about innovation in the accounting profession. Will shares his entrepreneurial journey from running his own practice to developing People Advisory as a service offering for accountants at Gusto. He explains the structured approach firms can take to modernizing by constantly experimenting and keeping services fresh, provides insights into the talent crisis in accounting, and how that crisis can be met by attracting new professionals with interesting, cutting edge offerings like People Advisory. His insights are rich for firms looking to enhance their value and stay competitive. Get the full show notes and more resources at
/episode/index/show/theuniquecpa/id/28918273
info_outline
Culture as a Competitive Advantage: Your Way to the Top
11/28/2023
Culture as a Competitive Advantage: Your Way to the Top
Dan Hood, Editor-in-Chief at Accounting Today, returns to episode 133 of The Unique CPA to talk to about the keys to creating an unbeatable company culture. They discuss the intricacies and the delicate balance between rules and relationships that attracts top talent and builds a sustainable firm environment. Discover what can truly set firms apart and ordered, pre-planned strategies for navigating growth while maintaining a distinct identity. Hear firsthand how defining small cultural nuances can build a team people don't want to leave. Dan is full of invaluable insights as the quintessential industry insider. Get the full show notes and more resources at
/episode/index/show/theuniquecpa/id/28811603
info_outline
Overcoming the Unexpected: The Journey Back from Stroke
11/21/2023
Overcoming the Unexpected: The Journey Back from Stroke
Episode 132 of The Unique CPA features an inspiring conversation with Rich Kane about his experience surviving a stroke at a young age. Rich talks to about his harrowing stroke story and recovery journey, including the lingering effects it’s had on his daily life and career. Both of them discuss the emotional impact the stroke has had on their lives. For accounting professionals, this episode highlights the real-life challenges stroke survivors face and promotes greater awareness of risk factors, with Randy and Rich discussing how to identify stroke symptoms through the BE FAST acronym. Overall, it's an insightful look at overcoming adversity through the lens of two stroke survivor CPAs. Get the full show notes and more resources at
/episode/index/show/theuniquecpa/id/28719453
info_outline
Building a Thriving Remote Practice
11/14/2023
Building a Thriving Remote Practice
Episode 131 of The Unique CPA features insightful discussion with Michael Ly, CEO of Reconciled, a leading virtual bookkeeping and accounting firm. Michael talks about building Reconciled from the ground up and his key strategies for growth, including acquiring other accounting firms. He provides valuable perspectives on remote work culture, the current state of AI in accounting, and his outlook on the future of the profession. He follows up with practical advice on building a thriving remote business, as well as a better understanding of trends shaping the industry—a must-listen for anyone looking to learn from the experiences of a successful entrepreneur. Get the full show notes and more resources at
/episode/index/show/theuniquecpa/id/28618028
info_outline
Acing Your Firm’s Hiring Using Data and Testing
11/07/2023
Acing Your Firm’s Hiring Using Data and Testing
Episode 130 of The Unique CPA features Giles Pearson, the co-founder and CEO of Accountests, who talks to about his background in public accounting and how his 18 years as a partner at a large firm. This inspired him to create Accountests to help firms make more informed hiring decisions. He discusses the various technical skills and personality tests Accountests offers and how they can help firms hire the right candidates faster, improve onboarding, and reduce costly turnover. Giles also talks about how the tests benefit candidates by identifying strengths and areas for growth. This insightful conversation provides practical advice on leveraging data and science to hire better and help accounting professionals reach their full potential. Get the full show notes and more resources at
/episode/index/show/theuniquecpa/id/28528940
info_outline
Reduce Stress and Automate Work: Cloud Solutions
10/31/2023
Reduce Stress and Automate Work: Cloud Solutions
Discover how to bring joy to accounting with cloud technology on Episode 129 of The Unique CPA! Kellie Parks talks to about her passion for bookkeeping and how she helps accounting professionals love cloud accounting as much as she does. Learn about the templates and tools Kelly provides to streamline your firm's processes and hear tips for implementing new technologies step-by-step without getting overwhelmed. Tune in to get insights on automating your work, improving work-life balance, and embracing cloud solutions to reduce stress in your practice. Get the full show notes and more resources at
/episode/index/show/theuniquecpa/id/28469936
info_outline
IRS Horror Stories (And How to Avoid Them)
10/24/2023
IRS Horror Stories (And How to Avoid Them)
On Episode 128 of The Unique CPA, Randy welcomes tax attorney and author Eric Green, the founder of Tax Rep Network. Eric’s goal with Tax Rep Network is to help tax professionals build successful IRS representation practices. He shares stories, including one where he helped clients resolve large tax debts and avoid penalties, and another horror story that saw a preparer potentially on the hook for six figures. Eric provides valuable advice for tax season, such as considering collectability when filing returns with balances due. He discusses how Tax Rep Network supports members with extensive training, consulting support, and community resources. Get the full show notes and more resources at
/episode/index/show/theuniquecpa/id/28069593
info_outline
Don't Just Show Up to Work, but to Create Excellence
10/17/2023
Don't Just Show Up to Work, but to Create Excellence
Randy welcomes a very special guest, legendary hospitality leader Horst Schulze, on episode 127 of The Unique CPA. The co-founder and former COO of Ritz-Carlton hotels, as well as the founder of Capella Hotel Group, Horst shares invaluable insights on achieving excellence through defining a specific goal for your business, empowering employees, and making customers feel cared for. Underlying his philosophy, which is centered around having a concrete, attainable goal, is a sense of responsibility to people and society. He also discusses his book, Excellence Wins, which has been purchased en masse by CEOs around the world to help shape their organizations’ culture. Get the full show notes and more resources at
/episode/index/show/theuniquecpa/id/28339754
info_outline
The Future of Accounting is Now
10/10/2023
The Future of Accounting is Now
Randy Crabtree talks to Hector Garcia, creator of RightTool, on Episode 126 of The Unique CPA. A QuickBooks expert, Hector discusses the future of the accounting profession in the age of AI and automation. He shares insightful perspectives on how software is changing the perception of accounting work, challenging the profession to get creative in redefining its roles and business models. Listen in to learn how to reinvent themselves and their firms to stay ahead of disruption, and get an exclusive look at Hector's upcoming conference focused on creative business models and future-proofing your role. Get the full show notes and more resources at
/episode/index/show/theuniquecpa/id/28265588
info_outline
Prioritizing People: Building a Sustainable Practice
10/03/2023
Prioritizing People: Building a Sustainable Practice
welcomes John Pace, the 2022 Digital CPA Innovation Practitioner of the Year, to The Unique CPA for episode 125. John transformed his outsourced accounting department, which is focused on nonprofits and government contractors, after becoming its director about a year into his time at GRF CPA in Bethesda, Maryland. He shares his insights into building a strong culture centered on employee wellbeing and work-life balance over billable hours. John's perspectives on leadership, innovation, and running a sustainable practice through empowerment are key listening for anyone in or looking to grow into a leadership position. Get the full show notes and more resources at
/episode/index/show/theuniquecpa/id/27997944
info_outline
Automation as a Way to Reduce Burnout
09/26/2023
Automation as a Way to Reduce Burnout
On Episode 124 of The Unique CPA, Randy talks to Mike Whitmire, CEO and Co-Founder of FloQast. Mike discusses how he overcame burnout in public accounting brought on by personal pain points to build FloQast, such as long hours both at a Big Four firm and at an L.A. startup, the difficulty of the month-end close process, and the need for a better work-life balance in accounting. He discusses growing FloQast to over 500 employees with a focus on culture and transparency. Get the full show notes and more resources at
/episode/index/show/theuniquecpa/id/28124159