Grow My Accounting Practice | Tips for Accountants, Bookkeepers and Coaches to Grow Their Business

Show Summary: In this episode of Grow My Accounting Practice, we welcome Ian Vacin, co-founder of Karbon and co-author of the upcoming book Scale with Purpose: The Service Entrepreneur’s Guide to Intentional Growth, written with Jason Blumer. Together, they’ve drawn from over 25 years of experience advising, consulting, and mentoring service firm owners to create a practical roadmap for entrepreneurs who want to grow their businesses intentionally—not accidentally. Ian discusses why scaling a service-based business is about far more than just growth in numbers. He shares insights from the book, including how to optimize human capital, plan across different time horizons, and address the biggest challenge that keeps owners up at night: capacity. From understanding when your team is overworked or underutilized to navigating structural adjustments at different growth plateaus, Scale with Purpose offers proven tools and case studies that help owners maximize profitability while building sustainable businesses. Whether you’re leading a small team or running a firm with dozens of employees, this conversation will give you a clear framework to scale consciously, manage your team effectively, and unlock the true enterprise value of your company.   Website:scalewithpurpose.info karbonhq.com/practice-excellence/ https://karbonhq.typeform.com/leader-survey   Corporate Partner:Miles Talent Hub - http://www.mileseducation.com Profit First App Version 2.0 is here!  More Education. More Functionality. More Profit!

Show Summary: In this episode of Grow My Accounting Practice, we sit down with Najma Khan, Certified Profit First Professional and founder of Rocket to Profit. Najma shares how implementing Profit First from day one—before she even had consistent income—set the foundation for her business and her clients’ success. She walks us through her calm, client-centered approach to introducing Profit First without overwhelming or “selling,” and how she reframes the most common resistance: opening multiple bank accounts. Najma also reveals the powerful emotional shift clients experience once they gain financial clarity, moving from stress and uncertainty to confidence and control. Finally, Najma explains why she sees profit as more than just numbers on a balance sheet—it’s a tool for contribution. This belief has guided her in helping fund clean water projects in underdeveloped communities, showing that profit can truly change lives.   Website: www.cashflowclarity.com.au/cashflow Instagram:@rockettoprofit LinkedIn: http://linkedin.com/in/najmakhan   Corporate Partner:Pumpkin Plan Your Biz - https://pumpkinplanyourbiz.com/ Profit First App Version 2.0 is here!  More Education. More Functionality. More Profit!

Show Summary: In this episode of Grow My Accounting Practice, finance insider turned industry disruptor Wallis Tsai reveals how high earners can use life insurance strategically to reduce taxes, protect their wealth, and build long-term financial security. Drawing on her experience as a former Goldman Sachs investment banker and hedge fund investor, Wallis shares a refreshingly transparent, no-BS approach to insurance-based wealth planning that cuts through the jargon and gets straight to what works. From protecting against the financial devastation of a health crisis to understanding why disability insurance is often the most overlooked coverage, Wallis explains how to prevent common and costly mistakes. She also explores why today’s long-term care options are better than ever, the critical insurance moves expectant parents should make, and how fiduciaries can identify and avoid bad advice. Whether you’re advising clients or managing your own finances, Wallis delivers actionable strategies to help you lead smarter conversations and make confident, well-informed decisions.   Website: https://www.aboveboardfinancial.com/ LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/wallis-tsai-31622a1/   Corporate Partner:People Processes - https://peopleprocesses.com/ Profit First App Version 2.0 is here!  More Education. More Functionality. More Profit!

Show Summary: In today’s episode of Grow My Accounting Practice, we’re joined by Dana Staszkiewicz—Co-Founder of The Opus & Golds Group and former GM/COO of All Hours Plumbing, Heating, and Air. Dana shares how she helped scale a home service business from $12M to $20M in under three years, leading to a successful sale in 2023. She walks us through what the business looked like when she stepped in versus where it landed at exit, and how her diverse background—from advertising agency leadership to retail management—uniquely shaped her approach. Dana also unpacks the critical role numbers played in driving strategic decisions, how The OG Group partners with businesses through hands-on on-sites and equity participation, and the empowering work she’s doing through her two women’s leadership groups. If you're looking to scale, optimize, or transition a business—this episode is full of actionable insight. Don’t miss it!   Website: https://opusgolds.com Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/share/g/1BaZVcmakY/   Corporate Partner:Relay.Fi - https://relayfi.com/ Profit First App Version 2.0 is here!  More Education. More Functionality. More Profit!

Show Summary: What if you could tap into your full learning potential—on demand? In this powerful episode of Grow My Accounting Practice, Dr. Sonny Magana, award-winning educator and globally recognized learning expert, shares how learning is not just a skill, but the foundation of all human achievement. Drawing from his groundbreaking research, Dr. Magana introduces us to the concept of “Learning in the Zone”—a state where individuals consistently achieve optimal learning performance. You’ll discover how, regardless of how fast or slow we learn, there are proven principles that can accelerate learning for everyone. At the core of this transformation are Dr. Magana’s 7 Habits of Meta-Learners—practical, science-backed behaviors that help individuals and teams unlock their highest potential. Whether you're a solo practitioner or leading a team, this episode is packed with insights that can help you create a culture of continuous improvement, personal mastery, and “Zone-ness” in your firm. 🎧 Tune in to learn how to transform your mindset—and your results—through the power of meta-learning.   Website: www.maganaeducation.com LinkedIn: www.linkedin.com/sonnymagana   Corporate Partner:Impressia Bank - https://impressiabank.bank/ Profit First App Version 2.0 is here!  More Education. More Functionality. More Profit!

Show Summary: In this empowering episode of Grow My Accounting Practice, we’re joined by Jen Perez, a Certified Profit First Professional, entrepreneur, and author of "69 Ways Money Is Like Sex." Jen is known for sparking bold conversations that challenge the status quo—and help business owners take back control of their finances and freedom. Jen dives into the three key levers every entrepreneur must master to scale sustainably: people, time, and money. She shares the creative process behind her book and how powerful analogies can help entrepreneurs finally get out of their own way—financially and emotionally. We also explore why financial success isn’t just about profit—it’s about designing a business that supports the life you actually want. Jen opens up about the most common mistakes she sees with Profit First implementations, and how to tailor the system to work with your brain and lifestyle, not against it. Plus, she shares how she built a six-figure business through relationship-based marketing and consistent, in-person networking—no burnout required. This episode is a must-listen for financial professionals and business owners who want real growth without shame, spreadsheets, or stress. 🎧 Tune in now!   Website: TheJenPerez.com LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/company/thespicyceo Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/thespicyceo Instagram:https://www.instagram.com/thespicyceoco Free Gift: (Spicy CEO Checklist - 10 Profit-Killing Habits to Break Before You Burn Out) https://thejenperez.com/checklist Book Interest: https://69waysmoneyislikesex.com   Corporate Partner:FlexPoint - http://www.getflexpoint.com Profit First App Version 2.0 is here!  More Education. More Functionality. More Profit!

Show Summary: In this episode of Grow My Accounting Practice, Michelle Weinstein, founder of The Abundant Accountant, dives into the crucial topics of sales, pricing, and client qualification for accounting firm owners. Michelle shares insights on how to recognize if you’re undercharging—and the long-term consequences of doing so, including burnout, client resentment, and stalled growth. She introduces the concept of optimal capacity, helping firm owners understand how to reduce their workload without sacrificing revenue. Michelle also explains how to strategically increase revenue with less stress, preparing your firm for greater profitability and a potential future sale at a high multiple. The conversation explores the most common mistakes accountants make when raising fees, and what to do instead to boost client buy-in and value perception. Plus, Michelle clarifies the important distinction between sales and marketing, offering actionable advice on how to strengthen both. This episode is a must-listen for firm owners ready to shift from survival mode to sustainable success.   The Abundant Accountant Podcast:  https://apple.co/2zMKpgz Facebook:thepitchqueen Instagram:@thepitchqueen Twitter:@thepitchqueen LinkedIn:https://www.linkedin.com/in/michelleweinstein/   Corporate Partner:The Abundant Accountant - https://theabundantaccountant.com/ Profit First App Version 2.0 is here!  More Education. More Functionality. More Profit!

Show Summary: In this episode of the Grow My Accounting Practice podcast, we’re joined by Barrie Cohen, Founder and CEO of BCPR, to explore how public relations can be a powerful tool for financial professionals. Barrie breaks down what PR really is—and why it’s more important than ever for finance experts to build authority, gain visibility, and stand out in a competitive industry. She shares when and how financial professionals should begin investing in PR, the strategic value it brings, and practical tips for using it to attract the right clients. Barrie also dives into how to stay relevant in a fast-moving, saturated space and highlights the best media platforms and outlets for financial experts looking to strengthen their presence and credibility. Whether you're new to PR or ready to take your visibility to the next level, this episode is filled with insights you can put to use right away.   Website:https://bcpublicrelations.com/ Facebook:https://www.facebook.com/barriecohenpr Instagram:https://www.instagram.com/barriecohenpr/ LinkedIn:https://www.linkedin.com/in/barrie-cohenpr/ Corporate Partner:Miles Talent Hub. - www.mileseducation.com Profit First App Version 2.0 is here!  More Education. More Functionality. More Profit!

Show Summary: In this episode of the Grow My Accounting Practice podcast, Kristin Meador, CPA and founder of Gradient Accounting, shares how she successfully runs her growing firm while traveling the world as a digital nomad. Kristin breaks down what it truly means to live and work as a digital nomad—and why this lifestyle is becoming more common among firm owners. She offers her top tips for managing a firm on the move, including the importance of choosing the right niche and building a client base that aligns with your values and lifestyle. Kristin also explains how implementing Profit First has helped her step away from the daily grind and operate more strategically. Plus, she introduces her proprietary Freedom Formula, a framework designed to help both her and her clients achieve Sales Freedom, Calendar Freedom, and Profit Freedom. Website:https://gradientaccounting.com/ Instagram:https://www.instagram.com/gradientaccounting/ LinkedIn:https://www.linkedin.com/in/kristin-disbrow-meador-cpa-3aba8b76/ Corporate Partner:Cashflow Mike - http://www.cashflowmike.com/ Profit First App Version 2.0 is here!  More Education. More Functionality. More Profit!

Show Summary: On this episode of the Grow My Accounting Practice podcast, Geoff Woods, author of The AI-Driven Leader and founder of AI Leadership, joins us to explore how leaders can effectively harness the power of AI to drive smarter, faster decision-making. Geoff shares his personal journey into the world of AI and breaks down why, despite knowing AI is the future, many leaders feel stuck when it comes to getting started. He explains how technology doesn’t just change jobs — it reshapes which skills are valued and how processes are executed. Geoff emphasizes that it's not the tools, but the leaders who use them, that ultimately determine the impact on an organization. He also highlights a common pitfall: most professionals are using generative AI for minor, tactical tasks rather than for strategic initiatives that truly move the needle. This episode is a must-listen for anyone ready to shift from overwhelm to innovation and unlock the real potential of AI in their firm.   Website: aileadership.com aileadership.com/start Corporate Partner:Universal Accounting - https://universalaccounting.com/ Profit First App Version 2.0 is here!  More Education. More Functionality. More Profit!

Show Summary: In this episode of the Grow My Accounting Practice podcast, Ryan McGarghan shares how combining Profit First, CFO services, EOS, and exit planning can help firms and their clients grow 5x. He explains how aligning finance with sales, marketing, and operations creates smarter, more strategic decision-making. Ryan also breaks down exit planning as a proactive growth tool and shows how EOS brings structure and accountability. Whether you're scaling your firm or guiding clients to long-term success, this episode offers practical ways to tie it all together.   Website: www.wearesynergysolutions.com   Corporate Partner:Your Cyber Team - https://yourcyberteam.com/   Profit First App Version 2.0 is here!  More Education. More Functionality. More Profit!

Show Summary: In this insightful episode of the Grow My Accounting Practice podcast, Sir Darren Jacklin shares strategies to help accountants and business owners smash their numbers in 2025. He highlights the importance of setting clear, measurable financial goals and encourages a shift in focus from revenue to true profitability. Darren also explains how using technology and automation can simplify workflows, reduce overwhelm, and free up time to better serve clients. The conversation dives into smart ways to prepare for tax season, along with the value of financial forecasting to stay steady through change. Whether you're aiming to grow, stabilize, or plan ahead, this episode offers practical guidance to help you build a stronger, more profitable business in the year ahead.   Website: SmashingNumbers.com DarrenJacklin.com lynkfoundation.org   Corporate Partner:Impact Global Solutions - lwhittam@csuiteimpact.com   Profit First App Version 2.0 is here!  More Education. More Functionality. More Profit!

Show Summary: In this episode of the Grow My Accounting Practice podcast, Donna Lim shares her powerful journey with Profit First and how it transformed both her business and the insurance agents she serves. Once a reluctant accounting firm owner who found the profession “boring and sterile,” Donna realized her deeper calling was to support business owners. That mission drove her to embrace discomfort and growth—even when it meant raising prices and losing clients. But what she gained was far more valuable: clients who were willing to do the work and pay what she was truly worth. Donna’s story is one of courage, challenge, and learning to own both the wins and the hard lessons. Donna also dives into what makes her work with insurance agents so impactful. By truly understanding their industry and the trajectory of their processes, she customizes her approach to meet their unique needs. She talks about the importance of transparency—with clients and her team—and how shedding the wrong employees and clockworking her business helped her achieve more with fewer people. Her story is packed with lessons for accountants and bookkeepers who want to serve with purpose, step into growth, and guide their clients to real financial transformation.   Website: www.sooterconsulting.com LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/donnasooterlim/ Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/sooterconsulting https://www.facebook.com/donna.sooter   Corporate Partner:People Processes - http://www.peopleprocesses.com/   Profit First App Version 2.0 is here!  More Education. More Functionality. More Profit!

Show Summary: In this episode of Grow My Accounting Practice, Cathy Donovan Wagner, founder and CEO of RETAILMavens, joins us to unpack the deep, often overlooked connection between pricing and personal well-being. Cathy shares how pricing decisions don’t just affect your bottom line—they impact your soul, your mental health, your team, your clients, and even the legacies we help build. She dives into the fear many professionals experience around raising prices, rooted in a desire to be liked and accepted, and explains why that fear can be more damaging than rejection itself. Cathy also explores the transformative power of niching, emphasizing how narrowing your focus can dramatically improve the client experience and your own confidence. As a Certified Profit First Professional, she speaks to the courage and commitment it takes to do the “scary things” in business. This episode is a powerful reminder that when you price with intention and lead with purpose, you not only serve better—you thrive.   Website: https://www.retailmavens.com Podcast: https://www.richerretailerpodcast.com Social Media: @retailmavens Free Training:3 Steps to Maximize Retail Profit and Reduce Overwhelm: https://www.retailmavenspc.com/moreprofit   Corporate Partner:Relay.Fi - https://relayfi.com/   Profit First App Version 2.0 is here!  More Education. More Functionality. More Profit!

Show Summary: Best-selling author and speaker Bob Burg joins us on this week’s episode of Grow My Accounting Practice to unpack the powerful concept of Genuine Influence — the kind that builds trust, fosters strong relationships, and leads to real results without manipulation. Bob shares the difference between influence and manipulation, walks us through the Five Principles of Genuine Influence, and even reveals the Eight Key Words that can inspire almost anyone to take action. We also explore why he doesn’t believe in “compromise” — and what to aim for instead. Whether you’re leading a team, working with clients, or growing your accounting firm, this episode will help you become a more persuasive, impactful, and ethical influencer.   Website: https://burg.com/ Daily Impact Email:  https://burg.com/daily-impact/ The Go-Giver Success Vault: https://thegogiveracademy.com/   Corporate Partner:Impressia Bank - https://impressiabank.bank/   Profit First App Version 2.0 is here!  More Education. More Functionality. More Profit!

Show Summary: In this episode of Grow My Accounting Practice, we sit down with Ross Loveland, Founder & CEO of True Profit Salons, to talk about what it really takes to scale an accounting practice and evolve your services. Ross shares the early steps of building his practice, the lessons learned from choosing (and changing) a niche, and how a failed revenue stream taught him resilience and clarity. He dives into the power of strategic partnerships, adding tax services to a bookkeeping foundation, and why niching down can be a growth superpower. Now leading a team and stepping away from direct client work, Ross opens up about what it means to shift from technician to true business owner—and how you can do the same.   Website: https://trueprofitsalons.com/ Instagram:  https://www.instagram.com/trueprofitsalons/ YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@TrueProfitSalons   Corporate Partner:Impressia Bank - https://impressiabank.bank/   Profit First App Version 2.0 is here!  More Education. More Functionality. More Profit!

Show Summary: In this episode of Grow My Accounting Practice, we’re joined by Liz King Caruso—Event Strategist, Consultant, and CEO of Liz King Events and techsytalk—to dive into the power of building a community to grow your brand. Liz shares her insights on how businesses in 2025 are leveraging events not just for visibility, but for genuine connection and long-term growth. From in-person to virtual and hybrid gatherings, Liz explores the evolving trends in what attendees truly value—and how brands can meet those needs with intention and impact. She also unpacks the most common missteps businesses are making with their events and why simply “hosting” isn’t enough. Plus, she answers a key question on every business owner’s mind: is it still worth investing in events? Tune in to discover how thoughtful, community-centered events can be a game-changer for your brand.   LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/lizkingevents/   Corporate Partner:FlexPoint - http://www.getflexpoint.com   Profit First App Version 2.0 is here!  More Education. More Functionality. More Profit!

Show Summary: In this episode of Grow My Accounting Practice, we’re joined by Edward Brooks to unpack “The 5 Reasons Stopping CPA Firms From Adding Millions in Revenue, Value, and Wealth.” Edward shines a light on why, even in a booming market, most CPA firms are leaving massive growth opportunities on the table. He challenges firm owners to take a hard look at the habits, assumptions, and blind spots that are holding them back from unlocking serious financial potential. Edward takes us deeper into why many CPA firms live with business risks they would never accept for their clients, and how this disconnect could be stalling progress. We explore the persistent talent shortage in the industry—not just why it exists, but what firms should be doing to address it. Plus, we tackle the elephant in the room: marketing. Why are so many firms still ignoring it, and what could change if they embraced it? Looking ahead to 2025, Edward outlines actionable strategies that any CPA firm can use to fuel massive growth in both revenue and value. Whether you're a solo practitioner or managing a growing team, this episode delivers bold insights and practical steps to help you seize the opportunities in front of you. Don’t miss this powerful conversation that might just change how you run your practice.   LinkedIn:http://linkedin.com/in/edward-brooks/   Corporate Partner:Impact Global Solutions - lwhittam@csuiteimpact.com   Profit First App Version 2.0 is here!  More Education. More Functionality. More Profit!

Show Summary: In today’s episode of the Grow My Accounting Practice podcast, Sandro Barbacini, co-founder of Vet in Business, joins the show to explore the power and importance of choosing a niche. Sandro shares how and why he started VIB from scratch, transitioning from veterinary medicine into business coaching, and how narrowing his focus helped build a thriving, purpose-driven practice. Throughout the conversation, Sandro emphasizes that choosing a niche not only helps clarify your message and attract the right clients, but also sets the foundation for sustainable growth. He discusses the value of authenticity and vulnerability in the marketing and sales process, explaining how being real and human can create deeper client connections. Sandro also highlights the impact of building strategic partnerships with mentors and modeling from others who have achieved success. Lastly, he reflects on the natural rhythm of the sales cycle and how aligning with it—rather than pushing against it—can lead to better results and long-term client relationships. This episode is a must-listen for any financial professional looking to stand out, grow intentionally, and lead with purpose.   LinkedIn:https://www.linkedin.com/in/sandro-barbacini-57751814/   Corporate Partner:Your Cyber Team - https://yourcyberteam.com/   Profit First App Version 2.0 is here!  More Education. More Functionality. More Profit!

Show Summary: In today’s episode of Grow My Accounting Practice, we're joined by business coach and Profit First Master, Marcus Kroek, for a powerful conversation around leadership, client relationships, and personal growth. Marcus introduces the concept of "Start with 'I'", a framework inspired by Maslow’s Hierarchy of Needs, focused on employee engagement and self-awareness in leadership. This episode dives into how truly effective teams begin with leaders who understand and meet their own foundational needs before inspiring others—tying in beautifully with themes from the book All In and our previous discussion with Danielle Mulvey. We also explore how accountants and bookkeepers can boost their sales success and client value by asking deeper, more insightful questions—getting to the problem behind the problem. This approach not only helps attract better-fit clients but also transforms existing relationships by positioning you as a trusted advisor rather than just a service provider. If you’re looking to deepen your impact as a business owner or advisor, this episode is packed with strategies to start from within and grow outward.   Facebook:https://www.facebook.com/MarcusKroekCoaching LinkedIn:https://www.linkedin.com/in/marcuskroek/ Instagram:https://www.instagram.com/marcuskroek/   Corporate Partner:Pumpkin Plan - https://pumpkinplanyourbiz.com/   Profit First App Version 2.0 is here!  More Education. More Functionality. More Profit!