Explore cutting-edge hiring solutions for accountancy firms with Robin Thieme, CEO and founder of KBS CFO, and industry expert Blake Oliver. Learn how work simulations provide a "try before you buy" approach, ensuring a better fit for the firm and the candidate. Discover the benefits of apprenticeship programs, which KBS CFO has successfully implemented. Robin will share insights from her experience running a Results Only Work Environment and discuss how these innovative practices can help your firm attract and retain top talent. Don't miss this opportunity to revolutionize your hiring process!

(Originally recorded on June 19, 2024, on Earmark Webinars+)

Sponsor
MakersHub - https://earmarkcpe.promo/makershub

• (01:57) - Robin Thieme's Background and Firm Overview
• (05:44) - Specialization in Distilleries
• (07:57) - Team Structure and Roles
• (13:17) - Innovative Hiring Practices
• (18:30) - Work Simulation Process
• (29:55) - Remote Work Challenges and Skills
• (38:24) - Introduction to Results Only Work Environment
• (38:53) - Attracting Top Talent with a Tech-Forward Approach
• (40:41) - Flexibility and Accountability in Remote Work
• (43:57) - Managing Team Performance and Client Expectations
• (45:26) - How to Hold Your Team Accountable
• (48:29) - Choosing the Right Workflow Tools
• (56:52) - Exploring Apprenticeship Programs
• (01:01:55) - The Role of Timesheets in Job Costing
• (01:04:09) - Conclusion and Contact Information

Earn CPE for this episode!

https://www.earmark.app/course/c41e6910-586a-474d-ae77-febfce14898f

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Apple: https://apps.apple.com/us/app/earmark-cpe/id1562599728

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Connect with Our Guest, Robin H Thieme, CITP, CGMA, CPA
LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/kbscfo/

Learn more about KBS CFO
Website: https://www.kbscfo.com/#

Connect with Blake Oliver, CPA

LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/blaketoliver
Twitter: https://twitter.com/blaketoliver/

Blake discusses the intricacies of property tax assessments and appeals with Josh Malancuk, President and Founder of JM Tax Advocates. Josh explains how his firm helps businesses minimize their property tax liabilities by providing a more accurate market value for their properties, which often differs from the assessor's valuation. He walks through the appeal process, the importance of meeting deadlines, and shares a case study where his firm saved a client millions of dollars in property taxes.

Sponsor
MakersHub - https://earmarkcpe.promo/makershub

• (01:04) - Meet Josh Malancuk: Property Tax Specialist
• (02:09) - The Importance of Property Tax Specialization
• (06:07) - Understanding Property Tax Assessments
• (09:06) - The Appeal Process Explained
• (16:12) - Appealing an Asset Value
• (23:49) - What Is It Like Making an Appeal?
• (32:58) - Case Study: Mega Food Processor
• (40:36) - How to Work with JM Tax Advocates
• (45:10) - Advice for Aspiring Property Tax Specialists
• (46:41) - Conclusion and Contact Information

Download the Earmark CPE App

Apple: https://apps.apple.com/us/app/earmark-cpe/id1562599728

Android: https://play.google.com/store/apps/details?id=com.earmarkcpe.app

Connect with Our Guest, Josh Malancuk, CPA, CMI
LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/josh-malancuk-cpa-cmi-a5997619/

Learn more about JM Tax Advocates
https://jmtaxadvocates.com/

Connect with Blake Oliver, CPA

LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/blaketoliver
Twitter: https://twitter.com/blaketoliver/

John Briggs, founder of Incite Tax and author of "The 3.3 Rule" joins Blake to explain his approach to ending burnout in accounting while increasing productivity, which involves working for up to three hours followed by a 30% recovery period. They explore how this method can double productivity compared to the traditional 8-hour workday, and John provides practical tips for implementing it in accounting firms.

Sponsor
MakersHub - https://earmarkcpe.promo/makershub

• (00:38) - Introducing John Briggs and the 3.3 Rule
• (04:50) - Applying the 3.3 Rule in Accounting
• (05:12) - John's Journey: From Deloitte to Insight Tax
• (07:04) - Challenges and Solutions in Modern Accounting Firms
• (11:42) - The Problem with Billable Hours
• (22:19) - The Benefits of Structured Breaks
• (25:07) - Being a Controller at Atlas
• (27:29) - The Reality of Top 100 Firms and Work-Life Balance
• (29:18) - AI's Impact on Consulting and Accounting
• (30:31) - The Future of Work Hours and Technology
• (33:57) - Balancing Work, Health, and Personal Life
• (39:05) - Measuring Productivity Beyond Hours Worked
• (46:35) - Final Thoughts and Where to Find More Information

Download the Earmark CPE App

Apple: https://apps.apple.com/us/app/earmark-cpe/id1562599728

Android: https://play.google.com/store/apps/details?id=com.earmarkcpe.app

Connect with Our Guest, John Briggs

LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/johnbriggscpa/

Learn more about Incite Tax & Accounting

Website: https://incitetax.com/

Connect with Blake Oliver, CPA

LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/blaketoliver
Twitter: https://twitter.com/blaketoliver/

Kick-start a new era in accountancy with Alan Whitman, the former CEO of Baker Tilly US. Using his invaluable experience as a CEO for nearly 8 years, Alan will share novel insights on transforming traditional CPA firms into modern, sustainable, and innovative powerhouses. This session delves into people development, strategic growth, service models, and methods for breaking from long-standing conventions that hinder progression. It's time to BREAK THE MOLD (TM) and lead the transition toward the future of professional services and the CPA industry. If that's your ambition, this session was designed with you in mind.

(Originally recorded on May 8, 2024, on Earmark Webinars+)

Sponsor
ShareFile - https://earmarkcpe.promo/sharefile

• (01:48) - Alan Whitman's Journey to CEO
• (03:32) - Breaking the Mold in CPA Firms
• (07:06) - Challenges of Traditional Models
• (16:48) - Ethics and Systemic Issues in Accounting
• (18:37) - Advising Firms on New Business Models
• (25:46) - Developing and Retaining Talent
• (29:33) - Navigating the Future of Advisory Firms
• (32:44) - Transforming the Practice: Multidisciplinary Approach
• (34:22) - Building Businesses Within a Business
• (37:40) - Journey to CEO: Building International
• (40:41) - Rebranding and Global Expansion
• (42:00) - The Importance of Branding in Professional Services
• (42:55) - Recruitment and Retention Challenges
• (46:52) - Education and Training in Accounting
• (50:29) - The Future of the Accounting Profession
• (01:00:50) - Final Thoughts and Advice for Firm Owners

Download the Earmark CPE App

Apple: https://apps.apple.com/us/app/earmark-cpe/id1562599728

Android: https://play.google.com/store/apps/details?id=com.earmarkcpe.app

Connect with Our Guest, Alan Whitman
LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/alan-whitman-357ab91/

Connect with Blake Oliver, CPA

LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/blaketoliver
Twitter: https://twitter.com/blaketoliver/

Thinking of selling your practice? Join us as serial acquirer Michael Ly shares an insider’s guide to preparing, pricing & selling your accounting firm. Learn how to value your firm for maximum sale price, find the right buyer, negotiate win-wins, protect clients through transition, and structure creative deals - whether nearing retirement or just exploring options. Get practical tips from an active buyer on ensuring a smooth exit on your terms.

(Originally recorded on March 26, 2024, on Earmark Webinars+)

Sponsor
ShareFile - https://earmarkcpe.promo/sharefile

• (01:34) - The Evolution of Reconciled: A Modern Accounting Firm
• (03:48) - Insights on Buying and Selling Accounting Firms
• (04:19) - Determining the Right Time to Sell Your Accounting Firm
• (09:44) - Maximizing Your Firm's Value Before Selling
• (16:53) - Adopting Modern Technology and Billing Models
• (23:04) - Understanding Firm Valuation and Buyer Insights
• (28:32) - Strategies for Enhancing Firm Valuation
• (30:24) - Evaluating Potential Buyers: What to Look For
• (32:11) - Client Retention and Revenue Strategies Post-Acquisition
• (36:32) - Valuation Insights: Navigating Firm Sales
• (41:19) - Optimizing Earn-Out Structures for Sellers
• (43:44) - Non-Compete Agreements: Protecting Your Business Post-Sale
• (46:11) - Common Mistakes Sellers Make and How to Avoid Them
• (50:20) - Tax Optimization Strategies for Selling Your Firm
• (54:03) - The Future of Accounting M&A Market
• (56:33) - Closing Remarks and Resources for CPE

Download the Earmark CPE App

Apple: https://apps.apple.com/us/app/earmark-cpe/id1562599728

Android: https://play.google.com/store/apps/details?id=com.earmarkcpe.app

Connect with Our Guest, Michael Ly
LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/michaelly
Twitter: https://twitter.com/michael_ly_?lang=en

Learn more about Reconciled
Website: https://www.reconciled.com/about

Connect with Blake Oliver, CPA

LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/blaketoliver
Twitter: https://twitter.com/blaketoliver/

In an era where the right software can make or break your accounting firm, choosing the right apps is essential. In this webinar, Blake Oliver, CPA, draws on his experience as a firm founder to guide you through the essential software that will streamline your operations, upgrade your client experience, and drive future growth. This session is designed to cut through the clutter of the ever-expanding app marketplace, providing you with a curated list of applications indispensable for modern accounting practices. Join us to discover how these apps can streamline your workflows, enhance your service delivery, and set your firm on a path to success.

(Originally recorded on March 6, 2024, on Earmark Webinars+)

Sponsor
Client Hub - https://earmarkcpe.promo/clienthub

• (00:00) - The 5 Apps You Need In Your Accounting Firm sequence
• (01:55) - Why Choosing the Right Software Matters
• (05:27) - Diving Deep into Proposal Management Software
• (14:08) - Workflow Apps: The Backbone of Firm Operations
• (29:08) - Exploring General Ledger Applications
• (31:07) - Optimizing Accounting Systems with FreshBooks and Xero
• (31:33) - Designing Your App Stack for Efficient Accounting
• (32:30) - Choosing the Right General Ledger Systems for Your Clients
• (33:02) - Streamlining Client Onboarding with a Standardized Tech Stack
• (34:28) - The Importance of Payroll Apps in Accounting Firms
• (35:04) - Exploring the Best Payroll Software Options
• (39:34) - Bill Pay Apps: Enhancing Client Services
• (43:39) - Integrating AI and ChatGPT into Your Accounting Firm
• (45:14) - Best Practices for App Integration and Tech Adoption
• (56:04) - Concluding Remarks and Next Steps for Your Firm

Download the Earmark CPE App

Apple: https://apps.apple.com/us/app/earmark-cpe/id1562599728

Android: https://play.google.com/store/apps/details?id=com.earmarkcpe.app

Connect with Blake Oliver, CPA

LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/blaketoliver
Twitter: https://twitter.com/blaketoliver/

The CPA profession faces an identity crisis, with challenges in the candidate pipeline, non-attest services' role, and CPE's effectiveness. This webinar explores the impact of the fifth-year requirement, the value of consulting services, the need for engaging CPE, and the use of the CPA designation in non-traditional roles. Join our expert panel as we discuss solutions to navigate the profession's challenges and opportunities and redefine the CPA identity in an ever-changing landscape.

(This episode originally aired on April 9, 2024 on Earmark Webinars+)

Sponsor
ShareFile - https://earmarkcpe.promo/sharefile

• (01:11) - Exploring the CPA Identity Crisis
• (03:10) - Challenges in the CPA Profession: Enrollment Decline and Talent Shortage
• (05:19) - Rethinking Education and Work Experience in Accounting
• (08:16) - The Future of Accounting: Automation, Advisory Services, and the CPA Role
• (10:01) - The Split Between Audit and Advisory Services in Accounting Firms
• (12:22) - Addressing the Pipeline Problem and Work Culture in Accounting Firms
• (29:51) - Reimagining the CPA Profession and Certification
• (32:35) - Exploring the Work-Life Balance in Accounting
• (33:19) - Engaging with Live Stream Viewers and Discussing Regulatory Solutions
• (33:40) - The Debate on Auditor Work Hours and Firm Practices
• (34:38) - CBIZ's Unique Position in the Professional Services Industry
• (35:46) - The Role of Regulators and Proposals for Reform
• (36:53) - The Case for Government-Run Audits
• (37:30) - Rethinking Overtime and Compensation in Accounting
• (51:40) - Addressing the CPA Identity Crisis and Recommendations
• (57:47) - Concluding Remarks and Future Directions

Download the Earmark CPE App

Apple: https://apps.apple.com/us/app/earmark-cpe/id1562599728

Android: https://play.google.com/store/apps/details?id=com.earmarkcpe.app

Connect with Our Guests

David Bergstein, CPA, CITP, CGMA
LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/davidbergstein/

Steven Sacks, CPA, CGMA, ABC
LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/stevenesacks/

Connect with Blake Oliver, CPA

LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/blaketoliver
Twitter: https://twitter.com/blaketoliver/

Audit is at a crossroads. Commoditization and compliance mentalities have diminished its value. Now, auditors face an existential crisis. How can assurance stay relevant? Join Alan Anderson and Blake Oliver as they tackle pressing questions on audit's failure to innovate and chart a new direction focused on value-added assurance. You’ll get a dynamic diagnosis of threats plus practical ideas to transform the profession before external forces make change urgent. Discover what’s at stake if audit no longer matters and how leadership today can write a better tomorrow.

(This episode originally aired on February 28, 2024 on Earmark Webinars+)

Sponsor
Client Hub - https://earmarkcpe.promo/clienthub

• (00:00) - EAP 66
• (01:57) - The Crossroads of Auditing: Challenges and Innovations
• (03:21) - Embracing Technology: The Future of Efficient Auditing
• (06:26) - Redefining the Audit Process: Closing the Expectation Gap
• (15:24) - Understanding Business Through Audits: The Value of Insight
• (27:38) - The Commoditization of Audits: A Call for Change
• (31:41) - Exploring the Flexibility in Auditing Standards
• (32:19) - The Shift Towards a More Rules-Based Approach
• (32:55) - The Impact of Standardized Methodologies on Auditing
• (33:48) - Revitalizing Auditing: Injecting Fun and Quality
• (36:16) - Addressing the Pipeline Issue: Making Auditing Appealing
• (41:04) - The Importance of Planning in Auditing
• (46:19) - Challenging the Billable Hours Model
• (50:53) - Leveraging Technology to Transform Auditing
• (52:38) - Concluding Remarks and Resources

Download the Earmark CPE App

Apple: https://apps.apple.com/us/app/earmark-cpe/id1562599728

Android: https://play.google.com/store/apps/details?id=com.earmarkcpe.app

Connect with Our Guest, Alan Anderson

Website: https://www.accountabilityplus.com/
LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/alan-anderson-0ab74227/

Connect with Blake Oliver, CPA

LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/blaketoliver
Twitter: https://twitter.com/blaketoliver/