GMAP Guide Chats: Stop Experimenting with AI. Start Building Systems.

AI is here to stay, but is your firm actually set up to use it effectively? In this episode of GMAP Guide Chats, Profit First Professionals Guides Erin Moger and Liz Szporn explore how accounting and bookkeeping firm owners can move beyond casually experimenting with AI and start making it a meaningful part of their operations. They break down the importance of building an internal knowledge base, creating rulebooks and playbooks that reflect how your firm operates, and giving AI the context it needs to produce more consistent, useful results. But implementing AI isn't just about choosing the right technology. It's also about giving your team permission to experiment, helping employees see AI as an opportunity rather than a threat, and establishing clear expectations and checks and balances so quality doesn't suffer along the way. Whether you're just getting started or already using AI in your firm, Erin and Liz share practical ways to build systems that support your team, protect your standards, and create more capacity for the work that matters. Corporate Partner: BILL. - http://bill.com/grow

What happens when you're the only person in your firm who can make the sale? In the first episode of GMAP Guide Chats, Profit First Professionals Guides Erin Moger and Liz Szporn tackle a problem they see all the time: firm owners who know they need to get out of the middle of every sales conversation, but don't know how to hand that responsibility to someone else without watching results suffer. They break down how to turn the sales process that currently lives in your head into something your team can actually follow, why documenting a few real sales conversations is a great place to start, and how to identify someone on your team who might be ready to step into sales. They also dig into qualifying inbound leads, creating simple levels of responsibility, giving your team room to learn, and one very simple test for whether you've become the bottleneck: Can your firm still make a sale while you're on vacation? If sales stop when you step away, this conversation is for you.   Corporate Partner: BILL. - http://bill.com/grow

In this episode of the Grow My Accounting Practice podcast, Ron and Liz sit down with Jason Snider to discuss the realities of managing remote and hybrid teams in today's accounting profession. As more firms embrace flexible work environments, Jason shares practical insights from his experience leading and growing a distributed team while maintaining strong client service, accountability, and company culture. Throughout the conversation, Jason explains that successful remote management goes far beyond simply allowing employees to work from home. He emphasizes the importance of creating intentional systems, clear expectations, and consistent communication practices that keep team members aligned and engaged. Rather than focusing on micromanagement, he encourages firm owners to build trust and accountability into their processes so employees can thrive independently while still feeling connected to the larger mission of the firm. The discussion also explores the unique challenges firm owners face when balancing flexibility with performance. Jason talks about how leadership styles must evolve in a hybrid environment, especially when it comes to collaboration, employee development, and maintaining culture across geographically dispersed teams. The group dives into how firms can avoid common pitfalls like isolation, lack of communication, and inconsistent workflows by creating more structure and clarity around team operations. In addition, Jason shares how remote and hybrid models can actually become a competitive advantage for firms looking to recruit and retain top talent. By offering flexibility while still maintaining high standards and strong systems, firms can create a healthier work environment that benefits both employees and clients alike. If you're navigating remote work, managing a hybrid team, or looking to build a more scalable and resilient accounting firm, this episode provides practical guidance on how to lead effectively in a modern workplace while keeping your team connected, productive, and engaged. Jason's LinkedIn:https://www.linkedin.com/in/thejasonsnider/ Corporate Partner:Michelle Weinstein, The Abundant Accountant Profit First App Version 2.0 is here!More Education. More Functionality. More Profit!

In this episode of the Grow My Accounting Practice podcast, Mike and the team sit down with Laura Shwaluk to explore the evolving role of accountants and bookkeepers as they move beyond compliance work into more strategic, advisory-driven relationships with their clients. The conversation centers on what it really takes to step into a higher-value role and how professionals can position themselves as trusted partners rather than just service providers. *]:pointer-events-auto [content-visibility:auto] supports-[content-visibility:auto]:[contain-intrinsic-size:auto_100lvh] R6Vx5W_threadScrollVars scroll-mb-[calc(var(--scroll-root-safe-area-inset-bottom,0px)+var(--thread-response-height))] scroll-mt-[calc(var(--header-height)+min(200px,max(70px,20svh)))]" dir="auto" data-turn-id= "request-WEB:d146540a-a0f5-4175-8fd4-73c4eee23142-1" data-testid= "conversation-turn-4" data-scroll-anchor="false" data-turn= "assistant"> Laura shares insights on the importance of building strong client relationships rooted in trust, communication, and consistency. She emphasizes that clients are no longer looking for just accurate numbers—they want guidance, clarity, and confidence in their financial decisions. By shifting from reactive work to proactive conversations, accountants can deepen their impact and become an integral part of their clients' success. Throughout the discussion, the group addresses one of the biggest challenges professionals face: confidently pricing and delivering advisory services. Laura highlights the mindset shift required to move away from hourly billing and toward value-based pricing, encouraging firm owners to recognize the true impact of their work and charge accordingly. She also touches on the internal barriers—like fear and self-doubt—that often hold people back from making this transition. The episode also explores the importance of systems and structure in scaling an advisory-focused firm. From standardizing processes to creating repeatable client experiences, Laura explains how having the right foundation in place allows firms to grow without becoming overwhelmed. If you're an accountant, bookkeeper, or financial professional looking to elevate your role, increase profitability, and build deeper client relationships, this episode offers practical insights and encouragement to help you confidently step into advisory and grow your practice with intention. Website:https://www.bbmmusa.com/ Laura's LinkedIn:http://www.linkedin.com/in/dr-laura-shwaluk-23446373 Jerry's LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/jerrykezhaya/ Corporate Partner: BILL. - bill.com/grow Profit First App Version 2.0 is here!More Education. More Functionality. More Profit!

In this episode of the Grow My Accounting Practice podcast, Mike, Ron, and Liz sit down with Sara Connell to explore a critical but often misunderstood element of growth: the power of storytelling in building authority, trust, and meaningful client relationships. While many accountants focus on credentials and technical expertise, Sara reveals how sharing your story can be the key to standing out in a crowded market. Sara discusses how firm owners can uncover and articulate their unique narrative—not just what they do, but why they do it—and how that message resonates more deeply with ideal clients. She explains that storytelling isn't about oversharing or being overly personal, but about creating connection, demonstrating credibility, and making your expertise more relatable and memorable. Throughout the conversation, the group dives into practical ways accountants can begin incorporating storytelling into their marketing, from content creation and speaking engagements to client conversations and brand positioning. Sara also addresses common resistance, helping professionals move past discomfort and embrace storytelling as a strategic tool rather than a vulnerability. If you're looking to differentiate your firm, attract better-fit clients, and communicate your value more effectively, this episode offers actionable insights on how to leverage storytelling to elevate your brand and grow your practice with greater authenticity and impact. Substack:https://saraconnellthedownload.substack.com/ Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/saraconnell Youtube:https://www.youtube.com/@ThoughtLeaderMedia Corporate Partner: BILL. - bill.com/grow Profit First App Version 2.0 is here!More Education. More Functionality. More Profit!

In this episode of the Grow My Accounting Practice podcast, Mike, Ron, and Liz sit down with Tyson Ray to explore a powerful but often overlooked driver of growth: alignment between how you naturally operate and how you build your firm. While many accountants focus on tactics and short-term wins, Tyson introduces a deeper lens—understanding your instincts, simplifying your approach, and designing a business that truly fits you. Tyson also brings attention to a critical topic many firm owners avoid: exit planning. As trusted advisors, accountants spend their careers helping clients prepare for the future, yet often neglect to apply that same level of intentional planning to their own firms. He shares why failing to plan ahead can lead to burnout, lost value, or forced transitions—and how building a business that can operate without you is essential for both long-term sustainability and a successful exit. Throughout the conversation, the group discusses how simplifying decision-making, reducing unnecessary complexity, and leveraging your natural strengths can unlock growth and scalability. They also explore how to structure teams, empower others, and create systems that reduce reliance on the owner—laying the groundwork for a firm that is not only easier to run, but ultimately more transferable. If you're looking to reduce overwhelm, better align your business with how you work best, and start thinking more intentionally about your long-term exit, this episode offers practical insights for building a firm that creates both immediate momentum and lasting value. Tyson's Website:totalsuccession.com LinkedIn:linkedin.com/in/tysonray Corporate Partner: BILL. - bill.com/grow Profit First App Version 2.0 is here!More Education. More Functionality. More Profit!

In this episode of the Grow My Accounting Practice podcast, Mike and Ron sit down with Darren Cioffi to challenge a common belief among firm owners: that growth comes primarily from more leads or better marketing tactics. Instead, Darren reveals that sustainable growth is built on consistency, relationships, and a clearly defined message that resonates with the right audience. Darren shares how accounting professionals can simplify their marketing efforts by focusing on what truly works—building trust, staying visible, and creating meaningful connections over time. He highlights the importance of showing up consistently, refining your positioning, and leveraging your existing network to generate higher-quality opportunities rather than chasing volume. Throughout the conversation, Darren encourages a powerful mindset shift from constantly searching for the "next best strategy" to committing to a focused, repeatable approach. By doing so, firm owners can reduce overwhelm, strengthen their brand presence, and create a more predictable path to growth. If you are looking for practical insights on how to market your firm more effectively without adding complexity, this episode offers actionable strategies for building momentum through consistency and connection. Purchase Drift: Why Profitable Businesses Fail (And How To Stop It):https://lnkd.in/ebGGm4P3 Darren's Website:https://www.myprosperitytree.com/ LinkedIn:https://www.linkedin.com/in/darren-cioffi-4b79a48/ Facebook:https://www.facebook.com/darren.cioffi.645279/ Corporate Partner: BILL. - bill.com/grow Profit First App Version 2.0 is here!More Education. More Functionality. More Profit!

In this episode of the Grow My Accounting Practice podcast, Mike and Ron sit down with Michael Boly to challenge a common misconception around credit: that a high credit score alone guarantees access to funding. Instead, Michael reveals that lenders are looking far deeper—at the structure, depth, and behavior within your credit profile, not just the number. Michael breaks down how entrepreneurs can strategically optimize both personal and business credit to unlock better funding opportunities, higher limits, and more favorable terms. He explains how understanding what banks actually look for—such as utilization, credit mix, and account history—can dramatically shift your ability to access capital and fuel growth. Throughout the conversation, Michael emphasizes a critical mindset shift: from simply "having good credit" to intentionally designing your credit profile to work in your favor. By taking a more proactive and informed approach, business owners can position themselves to leverage credit as a powerful tool rather than a limitation. If you are looking to better understand how credit really works and how to use it strategically within your business, this episode offers practical insights on building a stronger financial foundation and creating more opportunities for growth.   Zero Fund Website:https://zerofund.net/ Instagram:https://www.instagram.com/michaelboly/ TikTok:https://www.tiktok.com/@zerofundapp Corporate Partner: BILL. - bill.com/grow 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, Matt Granados challenges a common belief among firm owners: that team issues are people problems. Instead, he reveals how most challenges stem from broken or misaligned systems, not the individuals within them. Matt shares how accounting leaders can redesign their processes to naturally reduce burnout, increase motivation, and create more consistent performance across their teams. He introduces the idea of intentionally engineering workplace culture, rather than leaving it to chance, so it actively supports both growth and well-being. Throughout the conversation, Matt encourages a powerful mindset shift from managing people to improving systems. By doing so, firm owners can unlock greater scalability, stronger team engagement, and more sustainable success. If you are looking for practical leadership strategies to rethink how your firm operates, this episode offers actionable insights on building systems that empower your team and drive long-term results.   LinkedIn:https://www.linkedin.com/company/life-pulse-inc/ Instagram:https://www.instagram.com/lifepulseinc/ Facebook:https://www.facebook.com/LifePulseInc Podcast:https://www.lifepulseinc.com/podcast 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 the Grow My Accounting Practice, we sit down with Chuck Staszkiewicz to explore what it really takes to build, scale, and successfully exit a business. Chuck shares his journey of growing a trades company from the ground up to $22 million in annual revenue over 12 years, along with the hard-earned lessons from 25 years in the industry. He offers a candid look at what happens after the exit, including the often-overlooked identity shift founders experience once they sell their business to private equity. The conversation also highlights how Chuck now helps other business owners through The Opus & Golds Group, providing practical strategies across numbers, marketing, sales, leadership, operations, and mindset. This episode is packed with real-world insights for anyone looking to scale the right way and build a business that's not only profitable, but truly exit-ready. Website:Opusgolds.com Instagram:@chuckstaszkiewicz Facebook:https://www.facebook.com/chuck.staszkiewicz Corporate Partner: BILL. - bill.com/grow Profit First App Version 2.0 is here!  More Education. More Functionality. More Profit!