Who's Really the BOSS?

Rachel and Marcus dive deep into their firm's evolution of time tracking and practice management, from old-school stamps to modern software solutions. Despite moving beyond billable hour pricing, they discuss how they leverage time data for capacity planning, pricing decisions, and firm valuation, Rachel and Marcus offer practical insights on implementing and refining time tracking processes, balancing efficiency with data-driven decision making in a virtual environment.Introducing Collective by DBAhttps://collective.cpahttps://www.linkedin.com/company/collectivebydbaFor more information about GRIP, visit: https://collective.cpa/gripLearn More About Dillon Business Advisorshttps://www.dillonadvisors.comhttps://www.linkedin.com/company/dillonbusinessadvisorsSign up to get free CPE for listening to this podcasthttps://earmarkcpe.comDownload the Earmark CPE AppApple: https://apps.apple.com/us/app/earmark-cpe/id1562599728Android: https://play.google.com/store/apps/details?id=com.earmarkcpe.app(00:00) - Welcome to Who's Really the Boss (02:35) - Family Updates (07:08) - Beyond the Billable Hour (08:48) - Importance of Tracking Time (12:45) - Capacity Planning and Efficiency (23:20) - Increasing Capacity (26:10) - Team Structure and Specialization (28:03) - Software Evolution in DBA (32:30) - Invoicing Practices and Client Management (41:53) - Balancing Technology and Manual Processes (51:36) - Optimizing Team Capacity and Efficiency (55:09) - The Value of Excess Capacity in M&A (56:47) - Conclusion and Final Thoughts

This episode explores the intersection of popular business operating systems like EOS (Entrepreneurial Operating System) and tailored solutions for accounting firms. Christine Nietzke, ODCP shares insights on the benefits and limitations of EOS implementation, while introducing the GRIP (Goal Ready Implementation Plan) approach developed by Collective by DBA. The conversation highlights the value of having a comprehensive blueprint for firm success, emphasizing the role of discipline, organization, and team effort in achieving business goals.Introducing Collective by DBAhttps://collective.cpahttps://www.linkedin.com/company/collectivebydbaFor more information about GRIP, visit: https://collective.cpa/gripLearn More About Dillon Business Advisorshttps://www.dillonadvisors.comhttps://www.linkedin.com/company/dillonbusinessadvisorsSign up to get free CPE for listening to this podcasthttps://earmarkcpe.comDownload the Earmark CPE AppApple: https://apps.apple.com/us/app/earmark-cpe/id1562599728Android: https://play.google.com/store/apps/details?id=com.earmarkcpe.app(00:00) - Welcome to Who's Really The BOSS? (01:01) - Christine's Career Journey (04:24) - Christine's Role and Contributions (07:07) - Best Advice Ever Given (08:28) - Deep Dive into EOS (14:33) - Becoming an EOS Implementer (20:17) - Challenges and Client Stories (25:40) - The Importance of Structured Meetings (27:45) - Maximizing Existing Tools for Efficiency (33:13) - Introducing GRIP: A Blueprint for Success (38:50) - Team Collaboration and Accountability (49:36) - The Role of Discipline and Organization (51:58) - Conclusion and Final Thoughts

Marcus and Rachel introduce Collective by DBA, the evolution of their accounting firm support initiative. They discuss the motivation behind creating this community, its focus on strategy, structure, and systems for firms of similar sizes, and the unique events and resources offered. They emphasize Collective's commitment to fostering meaningful connections and driving lasting change in the accounting industry through peer support and expert guidance.Introducing Collective by DBAhttps://collective.cpa/Learn More About Dillon Business Advisorshttps://www.dillonadvisors.comhttps://www.linkedin.com/company/dillonbusinessadvisorsSign up to get free CPE for listening to this podcasthttps://earmarkcpe.comDownload the Earmark CPE AppApple: https://apps.apple.com/us/app/earmark-cpe/id1562599728Android: https://play.google.com/store/apps/details?id=com.earmarkcpe.app(00:00) - Welcome to Who's Really the Boss (00:40) - Exciting Changes at DBA Firm (01:27) - Rebranding to Collective by DBA (05:05) - Creating a Supportive Community (09:14) - New Offerings and Features (19:23) - Strategy, Structure, and Systems (29:15) - Upcoming Fall Get-Together (31:04) - Event Highlights and Key Takeaways (40:06) - Mission and Values of Collective (46:12) - Learn More and How to Contact Us

Rachel and Marcus provide an in-depth look at the intricacies of CFO advisory meetings, using real-world examples from a marketing agency and a dental practice. Marcus breaks down the meeting structure, from initial connection to financial analysis and strategic planning, while emphasizing the importance of adapting to each client's unique needs. This episode offers valuable insights for financial professionals looking to enhance their advisory services and strengthen client relationships.Learn More About Dillon Business Advisorshttps://www.dillonadvisors.comhttps://collective.cpa/https://www.linkedin.com/company/dillonbusinessadvisorsSign up to get free CPE for listening to this podcasthttps://earmarkcpe.comDownload the Earmark CPE App Apple: https://apps.apple.com/us/app/earmark-cpe/id1562599728Android: https://play.google.com/store/apps/details?id=com.earmarkcpe.app(00:00) - Welcome to Who's Really The Boss (01:15) - Storytelling Focus and Client Meeting Agenda (02:07) - Client CFO Meetings and Their Structure (04:05) - Understanding Client Value and Budget Allocation (06:44) - Developing Meeting Agendas and Client Interactions (09:24) - Monthly and Quarterly Client Meetings (14:10) - Case Study: Marketing Agency Client (25:08) - Recommendations (27:29) - Action Steps (32:35) - Insights from a Dental Client (35:09) - Quarterly Client Touchpoints (37:20) - Action Plans and Financial Analysis (51:04) - Advisory Meetings for New Clients (56:14) - Final Thoughts

Rachel and Marcus offer a comprehensive look at how accounting professionals can make the most of conferences and other learning opportunities. They share insights on navigating large events, creating focused learning experiences, and implementing new knowledge effectively. They cover topics such as team preferences for training, strategies for networking, and tips for turning conference insights into actionable steps.Learn More About Dillon Business Advisorshttps://www.dillonadvisors.comhttps://www.linkedin.com/company/dillonbusinessadvisorsSign up to get free CPE for listening to this podcasthttps://earmarkcpe.comDownload the Earmark CPE App Apple: https://apps.apple.com/us/app/earmark-cpe/id1562599728Android: https://play.google.com/store/apps/details?id=com.earmarkcpe.app(00:00) - Welcome to Who's Really the Boss Podcast (02:27) - Navigating Conference Overload (04:12) - Implementing Ideas Amidst Overwhelm (05:08) - Maximizing Conference Experiences (11:29) - The Value of Networking at Conferences (15:25) - Creating Intimate and Impactful Events (21:33) - How We Use Exclusivity (25:06) - Strategy for Accounting Firms (30:01) - How to Structure Your Business (31:21) - Optimizing Systems and Software (35:08) - Balancing Vendor Relationships and Learning from Peers (42:27) - Effective Conference Participation and Team Development (51:02) - Maximizing Conference ROI and Accountability (55:53) - Upcoming Events and Final Thoughts

In this episode, Marcus and Rachel discuss their recent team retreat to Florida, sharing insights on planning a successful getaway for a virtual firm. They dive into the logistics of organizing a destination retreat and the benefits of bringing team members and their spouses together in person. They also reveal how they used this opportunity to roll out new bonus structures and leadership opportunities, demonstrating how combining business strategy with team bonding can lead to innovative ideas and stronger company culture.Learn More About Dillon Business Advisorshttps://www.dillonadvisors.comhttps://www.linkedin.com/company/dillonbusinessadvisorsSign up to get free CPE for listening to this podcasthttps://earmarkcpe.comDownload the Earmark CPE App Apple: https://apps.apple.com/us/app/earmark-cpe/id1562599728Android: https://play.google.com/store/apps/details?id=com.earmarkcpe.app(00:00) - Welcome to Who's Really the Boss (01:07) - Purpose and Importance of Team Retreats (02:52) - Travel Logistics and Considerations (04:28) - Choosing the Right Destination (09:29) - Highlights and Benefits of the Retreat (13:04) - Team Bonding and Culture (17:59) - First Night and Setting the Tone (24:03) - Hotels vs Rental Homes (26:16) - Team Meeting and Goals Review (32:17) - Evaluating the Old Bonus System & Introducing New One (40:36) - Optimist-Pessimist Activity (45:15) - Leadership Opportunities and Career Advancement (47:04) - Onboarding and Efficiency Incentives (56:09) - Retreat Highlights and Team Bonding (01:02:21) - Future Retreat Plans and Budgeting

In this episode, Rachel and Marcus dive into the fundamental building blocks of marketing for accounting firms. They discuss how to identify your ideal client, create tailored service packages, and effectively communicate your value proposition. The conversation covers practical tips for managing inbound leads, leveraging your website as a virtual storefront, and utilizing automation tools to streamline your marketing efforts. This episode provides a solid foundation for accountants looking to refine their marketing strategy and attract their target clients.Learn More About Dillon Business Advisorshttps://www.dillonadvisors.comhttps://www.linkedin.com/company/dillonbusinessadvisorsSign up to get free CPE for listening to this podcasthttps://earmarkcpe.comDownload the Earmark CPE App Apple: https://apps.apple.com/us/app/earmark-cpe/id1562599728Android: https://play.google.com/store/apps/details?id=com.earmarkcpe.app(00:00) - Introduction to the Podcast and Today's Theme (00:34) - Marketing and Advertising Strategies (04:39) - Understanding Your Ideal Client (10:02) - How We Decided Our Ideal Client (17:57) - Targeting and Attracting Ideal Clients (26:00) - Building a Team and Defining Business Voice (29:52) - Inbound vs. Outbound Sales (30:41) - Handling Inbound Calls Effectively (32:07) - The Importance of Knowing Your Ideal Client (34:13) - Why Owners Shouldn't Handle All Calls (39:33) - Streamlining Email Communication (42:37) - The Role of a Good Website (43:22) - Utilizing CRM and Automation Tools (48:48) - Consolidating Marketing Tools (51:55) - Final Thoughts and Best Practices

In this episode, Rachel and Marcus discuss their experience implementing price increases at DBA in 2024. They share their strategy of presenting clients with updated pricing based on new service packages, while offering loyalty discounts to ease the transition. Despite some client churn, DBA ultimately increased monthly recurring revenue by over $6,000 while serving 15 fewer clients, freeing up capacity for their team. Rachel and Marcus break down the numbers and share valuable lessons for other firm owners considering price increases.Learn More About Dillon Business Advisorshttps://www.dillonadvisors.comhttps://www.linkedin.com/company/dillonbusinessadvisorsSign up to get free CPE for listening to this podcasthttps://earmarkcpe.comDownload the Earmark CPE App Apple: https://apps.apple.com/us/app/earmark-cpe/id1562599728Android: https://play.google.com/store/apps/details?id=com.earmarkcpe.app(00:00) - Welcome to Who's Really The Boss Podcast (00:34) - Family Updates and Summer Jobs (03:34) - Price Increases for Client Accounting Services (04:33) - Evergreen Engagement Letters Explained (06:39) - Implementing Price Increases (09:54) - Client Reactions and Feedback (11:44) - Adjusting Service Offerings and Pricing (23:49) - Final Thoughts on Price Increases (31:25) - Analyzing April 1st Metrics (32:14) - Client Churn and Acceptance Rates (33:56) - AIM Service Line Adjustments (39:55) - June 1st Metrics and Client Transitions (43:28) - Strategies for Managing Client Capacity (54:48) - Final Thoughts and Future Plans

In this episode, Marcus and Rachel dive into the details of DBA Firm, a new venture aimed at providing operational support to accounting firms with revenues between $500k-$5M and 3-30 employees. They discuss the origins of DBA Firm, the key pillars of structure, strategy, and software, and how their own experiences transforming their accounting practice inspired them to help other firm owners. Learn about the resources, events, and support DBA Firm offers to help small-to-mid-sized accounting firms improve and grow.Learn More About Dillon Business Advisorshttps://www.dillonadvisors.comhttps://www.linkedin.com/company/dillonbusinessadvisorsSign up to get free CPE for listening to this podcasthttps://earmarkcpe.comDownload the Earmark CPE App Apple: https://apps.apple.com/us/app/earmark-cpe/id1562599728Android: https://play.google.com/store/apps/details?id=com.earmarkcpe.app (00:00) - Welcome to Who's Really The Boss? (00:53) - Family Updates: Avery's Journey (02:30) - Avery's College Decision (03:39) - Impact on Family Dynamics (07:17) - Transition to DBA Firm Discussion (08:10) - Origins of the Podcast (09:46) - Transforming DBA: From Tax to Advisory (10:44) - Supporting the Accounting Community (16:20) - What is DBA? (21:38) - DBA Firm Resources and Events (32:32) - Introducing GRIP: Goal Ready Implementation Plan (45:55) - Conclusion and Future Plans

In this episode of the Who's Really The Boss podcast, Marcus and Rachel offer an insightful debrief of their accounting firm's 2024 tax season. They discuss how strategic changes implemented before tax season, such as team restructuring, new hires, and the introduction of new technology, impacted their workflow and client experience. They also share their challenges, successes, and lessons learned, including the importance of investing in team education and adapting to the needs of their clients. Throughout the conversation, Marcus and Rachel emphasize their firm's focus on providing top-quality client accounting services (CAS) and how they have successfully transitioned from a tax-centric practice to one that generates 80% of its revenue from recurring monthly services.Learn More About Dillon Business Advisorshttps://www.dillonadvisors.comhttps://www.linkedin.com/company/dillonbusinessadvisorsSign up to get free CPE for listening to this podcasthttps://earmarkcpe.comDownload the Earmark CPE App Apple: https://apps.apple.com/us/app/earmark-cpe/id1562599728Android: https://play.google.com/store/apps/details?id=com.earmarkcpe.app (00:00) - Introduction to the Podcast and Today's Theme (00:29) - Opening and Tax Season Recap Discussion (01:35) - Personal Update: Kinley's First Year of College (05:43) - Diving Into Dillon Business Advisors Tax Season Overview (07:18) - Team Changes and Strategic Adjustments Pre-Tax Season (13:28) - Innovative Solutions: Contracting a Tax Director of Counsel (18:43) - Operational Enhancements and Team Additions (24:02) - Implementing New Technology: The Shift to Canopy (32:32) - Addressing the Texas Franchise Tax Update and Its Impact (34:22) - Achieving Work-Life Balance: No Overtime and Weekends (36:58) - Strategic Financial Planning and Revenue Insights (44:57) - Reflecting on Tax Season: Successes, Lessons, and Future Plans (47:21) - Innovative Training and Knowledge Sharing Within the Team (54:45) - Looking Ahead: Software Solutions and Client Communication (55:59) - Wrapping Up: Insights from a Successful Tax Season

In this episode, Rachel and Marcus delve into the common pitfalls that accounting firm owners often encounter, sharing hard-earned wisdom from their own experiences. They highlight five critical mistakes to avoid, from building a nightmarish firm instead of a dream one to lacking passion and vision. The discussion also emphasizes the importance of steering clear of the comparison trap, letting go of the pursuit of perfection, and truly resting in a way that rejuvenates mind and body. Chapters(00:00) - Welcome to Who's Really the BOSS (01:21) - The Five Firm Owner Mistakes to Avoid (10:28) - Mistake #2: The Comparison Trap (15:39) - Mistake #3: Chasing Perfection (23:06) - Mistake #4: Lacking Passion and Vision (29:31) - Mistake #5: Resting the Wrong Way (41:32) - Wrapping Up and Looking Ahead Learn More About Dillon Business Advisorshttps://www.dillonadvisors.comhttps://www.linkedin.com/company/dillonbusinessadvisorsSign up to get free CPE for listening to this podcasthttps://earmarkcpe.comDownload the Earmark CPE App Apple: https://apps.apple.com/us/app/earmark-cpe/id1562599728Android: https://play.google.com/store/apps/details?id=com.earmarkcpe.app

Rachel and Marcus candidly discuss the challenges they faced in transitioning their accounting firm to a client advisory services (CAS) model over the past seven years. They share insights on converting existing clients, implementing new processes and technology, evolving team dynamics, and the need for firm-wide changes. This episode offers a realistic perspective for firms considering the CAS path, highlighting potential pitfalls and the strategic mindset required for a successful transformation.Chapters(00:29) - Welcome to the Podcast: Navigating Tax Season (01:57) - Reflecting on Past Busy Seasons and Deciding to Change (07:28) - The Hard Truths About Transitioning to Client Advisory Services (CAS) (18:58) - Learning from Mistakes and Embracing New Client Relationships (25:03) - The Hard Truths About Client Conversion (25:46) - Navigating Processes and Technology in CAS Firms (38:42) - Evolving Team Dynamics and Management Styles (42:49) - The Essential Shift in Team Composition for CAS Success (48:00) - Embracing Change: The Core of Transitioning to CAS Learn More About Dillon Business Advisorshttps://www.dillonadvisors.comhttps://www.linkedin.com/company/dillonbusinessadvisorsSign up to get free CPE for listening to this podcasthttps://earmarkcpe.comDownload the Earmark CPE App Apple: https://apps.apple.com/us/app/earmark-cpe/id1562599728Android: https://play.google.com/store/apps/details?id=com.earmarkcpe.app

In this episode, Rachel and Marcus share their experiences and insights on navigating the challenging task of pricing client accounting and advisory services (CAS). They discuss their firm's evolution from opaque pricing to a transparent, subscription-based model, and the strategies they employed to ensure their pricing accurately reflects the value they provide. Rachel and Marcus also delve into the difficulties of implementing price increases, the importance of clear communication with clients, and the lessons they've learned along the way. Chapters(00:00) - Welcome to Who's Really the BOSS? (00:34) - Navigating the Complex World of Pricing Increases (01:49) - The Evolution of Pricing Models: From Hourly to Value-Based (04:25) - The Journey to Transparent Pricing on Our Website (12:10) - The Impact of Pricing Transparency and Client Relationships (19:59) - Learning from Competitors: The Secret Shopping Strategy (27:31) - Evaluating Pricing Strategies and Client Relationships (32:51) - The Challenge of Communicating Price Increases (55:35) - The Art of Pricing and Client Feedback Learn More About Dillon Business Advisorshttps://www.dillonadvisors.comhttps://www.linkedin.com/company/dillonbusinessadvisorsSign up to get free CPE for listening to this podcasthttps://earmarkcpe.comDownload the Earmark CPE App Apple: https://apps.apple.com/us/app/earmark-cpe/id1562599728Android: https://play.google.com/store/apps/details?id=com.earmarkcpe.app

In this episode, Marcus and Rachel discuss two critical questions every business owner should ask when evaluating new opportunities - whether it simplifies their life and increases the value of their business. They dive into practical examples of applying these questions to prospects, software, service lines, and more. Get insights on making decisions that align with your values, increase profitability, and build a business with enduring value.Chapters(00:00) - Who's Really The Boss (01:08) - Podcast Updates and New Recording Home (03:02) - The Art of Being Quotable in Life and Interviews (05:32) - Introducing Two Key Questions for Life Opportunities (20:48) - Evaluation Potential New Clients (26:51) - Evaluating Software and AI in Business (36:33) - Exploring New Income Streams and Service Lines (46:25) - Wrapping Up: Reflecting on Simplification and Value Learn More About Dillon Business Advisorshttps://www.dillonadvisors.comhttps://www.linkedin.com/company/dillonbusinessadvisorsSign up to get free CPE for listening to this podcasthttps://earmarkcpe.comDownload the Earmark CPE App Apple: https://apps.apple.com/us/app/earmark-cpe/id1562599728Android: https://play.google.com/store/apps/details?id=com.earmarkcpe.app

When a team member resigns with no notice, it can feel like chaos. Rachel and Marcus share their experience handling a sudden departure and how their team structure allowed for a smooth transition, minimizing disruption to clients and maintaining high service levels. They outline the specific steps they took, from verifying the resignation to reassigning responsibilities, highlighting the importance of having clear protocols in place.Chapters(00:00) - Who's Really The Boss Season 3 Episode 08 (00:29) - Welcome to the Show: A New Recording Location (03:08) - Unexpected Team Resignation: Navigating Immediate Changes (05:53) - The Power of Team Structure in Crisis Management (10:18) - What is Our Typical Process When A Team Member leaves? (15:57) - The Importance of Capacity Planning and Team Support (19:29) - Learning from Experience: Avoiding Team Burnout (26:47) - Equipment Return and Security Measures (34:38) - How Our Team Communicates (36:27) - Realigning Team Responsibilities (42:34) - Introducing New Team Members and Ensuring Smooth Transitions (48:25) - Reflecting on Team Resilience and See You Next Time Learn More About Dillon Business Advisorshttps://www.dillonadvisors.comhttps://www.linkedin.com/company/dillonbusinessadvisorsSign up to get free CPE for listening to this podcasthttps://earmarkcpe.comDownload the Earmark CPE App Apple: https://apps.apple.com/us/app/earmark-cpe/id1562599728Android: https://play.google.com/store/apps/details?id=com.earmarkcpe.app

Rachel and Marcus discuss the differences between being business owners in their thirties versus their forties. They reflect on the intense focus and long hours required to build the business in their thirties, compared to now enjoying the fruits of their labor and being able to prioritize life beyond just work. They also touch on the evolution of valuing relationships and mentoring others as they've matured.Learn More About Dillon Business Advisorshttps://www.dillonadvisors.comhttps://www.linkedin.com/company/dillonbusinessadvisors

Marcus and Rachel discuss their differing backgrounds and risk tolerances that have shaped how they approach entrepreneurship and building their family business together. They offer some insights as to why Marcus is driven to constantly innovate and improve. They also share stories from Marcus' childhood experiences with his dad's trucking business that illustrate how those early experiences influenced his mindset and approach to business.Learn More About Dillon Business Advisors https://www.dillonadvisors.comhttps://www.linkedin.com/company/dillonbusinessadvisors

Interview with a Team of 3 with Marcus Dillon, CPA, Elena Munoz, EA, and Amada SantosHi CPAs and Accountants! You found our podcast! We apologize in advance for the suboptimal audio quality of this episode. This episode includes 1 of 8 Teams of 3 from Dillon Business Advisors. A Team of 3 is an operational structure for Client Advisory Services accounting firms that improves capacity, efficiency, client experience, and team member satisfaction.The Team of 3 is made up of a Client CFO who is typically a credentialed CPA, a Client Controller, and a Client Service Manager. These 3 professionals advise clients with income and expense management, payroll, sales tax, tax planning, tax preparation and filing, and general business and financial strategy.Listen to this interview for the critical role each member of the Team of 3 plays in adding value to every client and the resulting benefits this structure offers to the accounting firm.Takeaways:Explanation of the Team of 3 structureWeekly and monthly responsibilitiesPrevious pain pointsHow the Team of 3 improved the firm overall

Hope is Not a StrategyHey CPAs and Accountants! You found our podcast!Hoping and wishing alone rarely lead to significant change if any at all. At Dillon Business Advisors, we decided to ensure greater success in our accounting firm by hiring our first Director of Operations. In smaller organizations, everyone rolls up their sleeves and helps where needed, but initiatives and goals benefit from a highly-qualified leader who can plan, prioritize, monitor execution, and make adjustments in order to achieve optimal results. This week on Who's Really the Boss podcast, Amy McCarty, Director of Operations, joins Marcus Dillon, CPA and Rachel Dillon to discuss her role and responsibilities within the accounting firm. In this episode, Amy shares the immediate improvements she implemented upon joining the team and initiatives she has planned for the remainder of the year.3 key areas DBA has benefited from Amy's work as Director of Operations are:✦Technology and software assessment and implementation✦Process and documentation improvements✦Internal professional development strategy#accountingandaccountants #businessadvisors #operations #advisory #accountingpodcast #cpa

Who's Really the Boss PodcastStop Lying to YourselfHi CPAs and Accountants! You found our podcast.How are those New Year's resolutions and intentions going?This week on Who's Really the Boss podcast, we are probably stepping on some toes! Listen in to a conversation on the benefits of "knowing" versus "thinking" you are being consistent. We highlight the importance of tracking behaviors and inputs to measure progress and assess results. This episode will help get you back on track for the 2024 goals and intentions or add a little extra encouragement and affirmation if you are still going strong.In this episode, we talk through consistency and results:-In the gym-In accounting firm marketing-In accounting firm team culture#smallbusinessowner #accountingandaccountants #businessadvisors #businesspodcast #advisory #familybusiness #leadershippodcast #cpa