In this episode of Accounting with Confidence, I share our journey of adding an alternative to QuickBooks Desktop and QuickBooks Online to Xero, a cloud-based accounting solution. Discover the benefits and challenges we faced, the reasons behind our decision, and how Xero has streamlined our processes. Learn about the key features of Xero, including their integration with payroll and advanced reporting tools. Whether you're considering moving away from QuickBooks or just looking for a more economical solution, this episode provides valuable insights and practical advice.

Xero: https://www.xero.com/

Patriot: https://www.patriotsoftware.com/

Melio: https://meliopayments.com/

TechSoup: https://www.techsoup.org/

In this episode I delve into my personal coaching journey, the benefits of having a coach, and how it transformed my business and personal life. Whether you're feeling stuck, second-guessing yourself, or needing accountability, my experiences offer invaluable lessons for any business owner. Tune in to learn about the different types of coaching available, from group coaching to one-on-one sessions, and discover how to find the right coach for your specific needs. Don't miss out on this enlightening episode if you're ready to take your business to the next level!

Woodard: https://www.woodard.com/practice-coaching

Michael Hyatt/Full Focus Coaching: https://fullfocus.co/coaching

Maxwell Leadership: https://www.johnmaxwell.co/corporate-leadership-training

Les McKeown: https://predictablesuccess.com/growth-coach-les-mckeown

Gino Wickman/EOS: https://www.eosworldwide.com/resources

Mike Michalowicz/Profit First: https://mikemichalowicz.com/books; https://mikemichalowicz.com/mas...

In this episode I share my personal journey and strategies for managing overwhelm in a busy CPA firm. From early career experiences to current stresses, I discuss my signs of overwhelm, including disrupted sleep, lack of focus, and forgetfulness. I outline practical tips like stepping back to identify what's causing the stress, doing a brain dump, prioritizing tasks, communicating with the team, and finding grounding activities such as exercise. I aim to help listeners navigate the challenges of running a business while maintaining mental and physical health.

In this episode I share valuable advice on preparing for conferences. From setting clear goals to packing essential items, I cover everything you need to know for a successful and enjoyable experience. Learn how to manage your energy, stay focused, and make meaningful connections, all while navigating the potential stresses and challenges of conference season. Tune in for practical tips and insights drawn from my years of attending professional events.

This episode is a confidence booster designed to give you an exclusive behind-the-scenes look at my daily routine as a public accountant and business owner. I've been in the industry for 29 years, and my work-life balance has morphed significantly, especially since the pandemic. Now, my team and I operate 100% remotely, providing flexibility and a more casual work environment. I'll share how I plan my week using the Full Focus Planner, prioritize my health and wellness, and maintain productivity while enjoying my personal passions. Join me as I walk you through my typical day, from morning dog walks to evening workouts, and learn how you too can manage your business effectively from home.

In this episode of Accounting with Confidence, I delve into the unique and effective employment model I've developed for my firm—permanent part-time positions. I discuss the journey that led me to embrace this model, including the challenges and lessons learned along the way. Hear about the significant advantages, from reduced stress and better work-life balance to superior client service and more efficient hiring practices. I'll also share insights on how this model can appeal to young professionals and those with family commitments, making it an attractive option in the accounting industry and potentially other service-related fields. Tune in to learn how you, too, can build a business you love by adopting innovative employment strategies.

In this episode I recap the latest tax season, detailing both the challenges and successes experienced. This year marked our transition to a fully remote team, including the addition of a new remote administrative assistant. Despite initial concerns, we successfully navigated remote work logistics, streamlined our workflow, and introduced a subscription model for clients. I also share personal anecdotes, including the emotional difficulty of a staffing change and the importance of maintaining healthy work-life boundaries. Overall, the season was productive, with minimal overtime and the successful early completion of tax filings.

In this episode I discuss the significant changes happening in the Intuit QuickBooks software landscape, focusing on the shift from QuickBooks Desktop to subscription-based models like QuickBooks Online. I cover the challenges and limitations of QuickBooks Online, especially for businesses with specialized needs like inventory and payroll management. I also explore alternative solutions such as Xero and Accounting Suite, and emphasize the importance of planning your transition early to avoid disruptions. If you're facing the end-of-life for your QuickBooks Desktop product, I provide actionable steps to prepare for the inevitable switch. Stay tuned for updates and feel free to reach out with any questions.

In this episode I provide a brief update on our current status with less than a month left in tax season. I discuss the benefits and challenges of transitioning to a 100% remote team, the positive impact of our practice management software, Canopy, and the success of our subscription billing model. Additionally, I share advice on hiring management support and optimizing processes.