Journal of Accountancy Podcast

Mark Beasley, CPA, Ph.D., director of the ERM Initiative at North Carolina State University, joined the Journal of Accountancy podcast to discuss the results of an annual survey and report published in collaboration with the AICPA and CIMA. The main news from the survey, now in its 17th year: Risks continue to grow in magnitude and complexity, but organizations' risk management response isn't always keeping pace. Organizations have awareness of risks, but many struggle to connect enterprise risk management (ERM) with strategy and decision-making. This episode explores what's holding risk management back, why scenario planning matters, and how better risk intelligence can become a strategic advantage. Resource link: The State of Risk Oversight report What you'll learn from this episode: The job roles of survey respondents, whose answers form the basis of the annual report. Why many organizations still struggle to connect ERM to strategy and decision-making. How geopolitical uncertainty, AI, and the accelerating pace of change are complicating the risk environment. The "surprise factor" to Beasley related to the survey results. His opinion on what keeps organizations from adopting more robust approaches such as scenario planning. How risk intelligence can help leaders anticipate emerging threats and create strategic advantage.

With CFO responsibilities continuing to expand beyond finance, Janice Stucke, CPA, discussed the challenge of leading in areas where expertise and certainty aren't guaranteed. Stucke, speaking at the Future of Finance Summit in National Harbor, Md., shared her perspective on acknowledging weaknesses, balancing data with judgment, and learning to listen before jumping to solutions. She recently wrote a JofA article on the changing remit of the CFO. And, in a previous podcast appearance, alluded to in this conversation, Stucke recounted the resilience lessons learned from competing in difficult endurance events. What you'll learn from this episode: Why CFOs have to become comfortable with leading beyond their expertise. Why making a data-backed decision might not always be the best path. What authenticity as a leadership trait means to Stucke. Her answer to the question, "Do you want to be a CEO?" What Stucke means when she talks about having "1% more." The career paths Stucke sees opening up for those in finance leadership.

A Baltimore-based economist joined the Journal of Accountancy podcast to discuss interest rates, labor market trends, artificial intelligence, and other forces shaping the U.S. economy. Anirban Basu, Ph.D., scheduled to speak at both the National Tax Conference in November and the Construction & Real Estate Conference in December, explains why the economic outlook is more nuanced than many headlines suggest and what business leaders should be watching in the months ahead. What you'll learn from this episode: Why interest rates remain one of the biggest economic storylines, according to Basu. How AI is affecting jobs, productivity, and professional services. What labor market data say about layoffs and employment. Why simple narratives often miss the complexity of the U.S. economy. How Basu prepares to connect with conference audiences. The meaning behind his phrase "play like a Raven."  

Finance leaders can become consumed by today's challenges, but long-term thinking is essential to staying competitive and relevant.  In this episode of the Journal of Accountancy podcast, hear from former AICPA chair Okorie Ramsey, CPA, CGMA, on how the Rise2040 initiative identifies key forces shaping the profession, why embracing change is critical, and how trust can remain a powerful advantage for CPAs. Ramsey, speaking from the Future of Finance Summit in National Harbor, Md., also discussed the purpose of the AICPA Foundation and why he enjoys being part of the Future of Finance Leadership Advisory Group. What you'll learn from this episode: A framing of the Rise2040 initiative and how it can help finance leaders think beyond this week's task list. Ramsey's comment on Rise2040 including the statement from accountants that "our biggest threat is us." Why embracing change is a critical skill for the profession. The reason trust is particularly important now in Ramsey's mind. His focus areas as vice president of the AICPA Foundation.

Tiffany Willis, a former Starbucks finance executive, spoke recently at the Future of Finance Summit, presenting real and challenging boardroom scenarios for the audience. In a podcast interview, she expanded on those ideas, sharing practical advice for handling high-pressure moments, communicating with executives, and presenting financial insights effectively.  Willis explained why preparation, audience awareness, and composure are critical skills. She also discussed the leadership lessons behind her book, Own Your Narrative, and the importance of authenticity in building successful teams. What you'll learn from this episode: Why the "meeting before the meeting" can minimize surprises in the boardroom. How to tailor financial insights and data presentations for different audiences. Ways to maintain composure and credibility when your work is challenged. How finance leaders can bridge gaps between organizational goals and financial realities. Her emphasis on authenticity. Why Willis said she's "still developing" as a leader.