217 ⎸ What You *Actually* Need to Start Your Bookkeeping Business

Send us a textsome links are affiliate linksWant to see my weekly timesheets? Follow me on Threads: https://www.threads.net/@ambitiousbookkeeperNo one talks enough about the amount of time that goes into an online course business. So I’m talking about it today.In this episode you’ll hear:My profit margins for both my firm & my online course businessthe time I spend during launches & fulfillmenthow much time I spent in August 2025 on both businessesResources mentioned in this episode:Clockify → timetrackingFor experienced bookkeepers & accountants:Learn how to start your bookkeeping business in The Bookkeeping Business Accelerator® >>Grab my FREE Start your Bookkeeping Biz Checklist >>Grab my FREE New Client Onboarding Templates >>For new bookkeepers:Learn the fundamental accounting skills in Katie Ferro's Become a Bookkeeper** >>For creators:Become a client at my firm, Of Course Financial >>For more information about the Ambitious Bookkeeper Podcast or interest in our programs or mentoring visit our resources below:Visit my website: ambitiousbookkeeper.comSubscribe to my Newsletter ambitiousbookkeeper.com/blogConnect on Instagram: instagram.com/ambitiousbookkeeperConnect on Threads: threads.net/@ambitiousbookkeeperPodcast Publishing Tools we use:Podcast Editing: Sabr Media LLCDescript**Buzzsprout**AFFILIATE DISCLAIMERWe participate in affiliate marketing programs, which means we may earn a commission from purchases made through the links above. However, our recommendations are based on our own research and expertise, and your trust is our priority.Get access to the Dubsado Decoded Private Podcast Series here>> Grab the Spotify Playlists here: ambitiousbookkeeper.com/spotify

Send us a textCyber scams targeting bookkeepers are getting more sophisticated, and I'm sitting down with insurance expert Jock Wols to talk about what's happening in our industry right now. I even share my own recent experience being targeted through the Gusto partner directory—twice in one day! If you think it won't happen to you, think again. This conversation is packed with real stories, practical tips, and the insurance knowledge you need to protect your business in 2025.In this episode you’ll hear:The most common scams hitting bookkeepers right now, including phishing attacks through trusted directories like Gusto and QuickBooksMy personal story of almost falling victim to a payroll scam (and how one of those fake "clients" actually got to another bookkeeper)Why picking up the phone is your best defense against wire transfer fraudWhat cyber insurance actually covers (spoiler: not all policies are created equal) and the gaps you need to know aboutResources mentioned in this episode:Episode with Jock on Insurance BasicsBehind the Scenes Newsletter (Past Volumes) >watch the video version on YouTube >>Meet Jock WolsJock is the Founder and CEO of RiskDesk, an insurance broker and technology company based out of Lexington, Kentucky. In partnership with Nationwide, he established the PT Pro platform (https://www.ptprocover.com) to serve small business’ insurance needs. He has almost 20 years of experience to help professionals manage their risk by delivering market-leading E&O / Professional Liability and Cyber Liability insurance solutions. Before he established RiskDesk in 2017, Jock managed the professional liability portfolio at XL Catlin and was based in London, New York and Lexington. He graduated from Washington & Lee University with a BSc in 2004 and obtained his MBA from New York University in 2013.Connect with JockReach out directly to Jock at [email protected] or (859) 327-5594.Thanks for listening. If this episode inspired you in some way, take a screenshot of you listening on your device and post it to your Instagram stories and tag me @ambitiousbookkeeperFor more information about the Ambitious Bookkeeper Podcast or interest in our programs or mentoring visit our resources below:Visit our website: https://www.ambitiousbookkeeper.comFollow the Blog: https://www.ambitiousbookkeeper.com/blogConnect on Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/ambitiousbookkeeperConnect on Threads: https://www.threads.net/@ambitiousbookkeeperConnect on Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/serenashoupcpaThank you for your support of our show. If you haven’t left a review yet it’s super simple. Please go to ambitiousbookkeepGet access to the Dubsado Decoded Private Podcast Series here>> Join me and Alyssa Lang, the Workflow Queen for The Advisory Edge Workshop - only $97 > Grab the Spotify Playlists here: ambitiousbookkeeper.com/spotify

Send us a textIn this episode, I sat down with Margie Remmers-Davis, founder and CEO of Akadian Accounting Education, to talk about what it really takes to learn QuickBooks Online. If you've ever felt like the ProAdvisor certification didn't actually prepare you to do bookkeeping work, this conversation is for you. Margie shares her incredible journey from stay-at-home mom to bookkeeping educator, and we dive deep into how she's revolutionizing the way people learn QBO and bookkeeping.In this episode you’ll hear:How Margie went from a devastating divorce to building a thriving education company that's changing how bookkeepers learnThe truth about the QBO ProAdvisor certificationHow AI is going to change bookkeeping jobs and what you need to know right now to protect your career and stay relevantResources mentioned in this episode:Acadian Accounting Education: https://www.akadian.com"Everything Doc" Guide :https://www.akadian.com/everythingQBO Gym Locker Room: https://www.akadian.com/lockerroomBooks Match: https://www.booksmatch.usMeet MargiePressure is the only way to form diamonds. Margie Remmers-Davis, known as the Aha Queen of Accounting Education, is transforming what many consider a dry, boring subject into something practical, hands-on, engaging, and fun! After an unexpected divorce forced her to start over, she uncovered major gaps in accounting education while rebuilding her career through bookkeeping. Drawing on her background in software training, she founded Akadian Accounting Education, which has since empowered over 20,000 bookkeepers with the confidence, clarity, and skills to thrive. In recognition of its rapid growth and impact, Akadian was named to the prestigious Inc. 5000 list of America’s fastest-growing companies.Connect with Margie👥 Linkedin: https://www.linkedin.com/in/margie-remmers/📺 YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@akadianeducationThanks for listening. If this episode inspired you in some way, take a screenshot of you listening on your device and post it to your Instagram stories and tag me @ambitiousbookkeeperFor more information about the Ambitious Bookkeeper Podcast or interest in our programs or mentoring visit our resources below:Visit our website: https://www.ambitiousbookkeeper.comFollow the Blog: https://www.ambitiousbookkeeper.com/blogConnect on Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/ambitiousbookkeeperConnect on Threads: https://www.threads.net/@ambitiousbookkeeperConnect on Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/serenashoupcpaThank you for your support of our show. If you haven’t left a review yet it’s super simple. Please go to ambitiGet access to the Dubsado Decoded Private Podcast Series here>> Join me and Alyssa Lang, the Workflow Queen for The Advisory Edge Workshop - only $97 > Grab the Spotify Playlists here: ambitiousbookkeeper.com/spotify

Send us a textHey there! In this episode, I'm breaking down exactly what you actually need to start your bookkeeping business - no fluff, just the tactical stuff that matters. As someone who accidentally started my bookkeeping business as a side hustle to motherhood and now mentors other bookkeepers, I'm sharing the five non-negotiables that will set you up for success from day one.In this episode you’ll hear:The complete education and experience foundation you needAll the paperwork and compliance stuff nobody talks aboutHow to actually get paidThe exact documents you need to ask every client for during onboardingMy honest take on pricingResources mentioned in this episode:Become a BookkeeperAkadian Accounting EducationRelay BankXeroPricing for ProfitAll Minicourses → StoreFor experienced bookkeepers & accountants:Learn how to start your bookkeeping business in The Bookkeeping Business Accelerator® >>Grab my FREE Start your Bookkeeping Biz Checklist >>Grab my FREE New Client Onboarding Templates >>For new bookkeepers:Learn the fundamental accounting skills in Katie Ferro's Become a Bookkeeper >>For online course creators:Become a client at my firm, Of Course Financial >>For more information about the Ambitious Bookkeeper Podcast or interest in our programs or mentoring visit our resources below:Visit our website: ambitiousbookkeeper.comFollow the Blog: ambitiousbookkeeper.com/blogConnect on Instagram: instagram.com/ambitiousbookkeeperConnect on Threads: threads.net/@ambitiousbookkeeperConnect on Facebook: Facebook.com/serenashoupcpaPodcast Publishing Tools we use:Podcast Editing: Sabr Media LLCDescript (affiliate link)Buzzsprout (affiliate link)AFFILIATE DISCLAIMERWe participate in affiliate marketing programs, which means we may earn a commission from purchases made through the links above. However, our recommendations are based on our own research and expertise, and your trust is our priority.Get access to the Dubsado Decoded Private Podcast Series here>> Grab the Spotify Playlists here: ambitiousbookkeeper.com/spotify

Send us a textIn this episode, I'm sharing my personal journey through toxic mold exposure and the health challenges that nearly broke me as a mom and business owner. I'm joined by my nutritionist Dariella Gonitzke, who I met at BBD Live when I was at my lowest point. We dive deep into how stress, environmental factors, and hormonal changes can completely derail your health - and what you can actually do about it.In this episode you’ll hear:How I went from a healthy mom to barely functioning due to toxic mold exposureWhy traditional medicine often misses the mark with exhausted womenThe connection between stress, mineral depletion, and why you might be craving salt all the timePractical strategies for supporting your body through midlife changesResources mentioned in this episode:Wellness audit - https://saravitanutrition.thrivecart.com/the-midlife-wellness-audit/YouTube Channel: https://www.youtube.com/@SaravitaNutritionWebsite: https://saravitanutrition.com/Meet DariellaDariella Gonitzke is a registered dietitian and functional medicine practitioner dedicated to helping women overcome persistent health issues—like hormonal imbalances, digestive troubles, and stubborn weight gain—through personalized, holistic care. Drawing on her own healing journey with hormonal imbalances and migraines, she offers science-backed nutrition plans, advanced lab testing, and lifestyle support to uncover the root causes of symptoms and restore vitality. With a compassionate, “test‑not‑guess” approach, Dariella guides clients toward sustainable transformation—so they can feel energized, balanced, and fully themselves againConnect with Dariella📱 Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/nutrition.for.perimenopause/Thanks for listening. If this episode inspired you in some way, take a screenshot of you listening on your device and post it to your Instagram stories and tag me @ambitiousbookkeeperFor more information about the Ambitious Bookkeeper Podcast or interest in our programs or mentoring visit our resources below:Visit our website: https://www.ambitiousbookkeeper.comFollow the Blog: https://www.ambitiousbookkeeper.com/blogConnect on Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/ambitiousbookkeeperConnect on Threads: https://www.threads.net/@ambitiousbookkeeperConnect on Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/serenashoupcpaThank you for your support of our show. If you haven’t left a review yet it’s super simple. Please go to ambitiousbookkeeper.com/podcast and leave your review.Podcast Publishing Tools we use:Editing → Sabr Media LLC: https://www.iangilliam.comGet access to the Dubsado Decoded Private Podcast Series here>> Join me and Alyssa Lang, the Workflow Queen for The Advisory Edge Workshop - only $97 > Grab the Spotify Playlists here: ambitiousbookkeeper.com/spotify

Send us a textIs it time to move your clients to Xero? Let’s talk about some considerations, before you embark on this pathIn this episode you’ll hear:how to know if it’s time to leave QBOsteps to take to migrate your clientsresources and benefits of being a Xero PartnerResources mentioned in this episode:Sign up for the Xero Partner Program: https://xeroamericas.partnerlinks.io/79afz10exu7d (affiliate link)Why we’re a Xero Firm Episode 19: https://www.buzzsprout.com/1774460/9399655Jetconvert - https://jetconvert.com/usa-pricing/—For experienced bookkeepers & accountants—Learn how to start your bookkeeping business in The Bookkeeping Business Accelerator® >>Grab my FREE Start your Bookkeeping Biz Checklist >>Grab my FREE New Client Onboarding Templates >>—For new bookkeepers—Learn the fundamental accounting skills with Xero in Katie Ferro's Become a Bookkeeper >>—For online course creators—Become a client at my firm, Of Course Financial >>For more information about the Ambitious Bookkeeper Podcast or interest in our programs or mentoring visit our resources below:Visit our website: ambitiousbookkeeper.comFollow the Blog: ambitiousbookkeeper.com/blogConnect on Instagram: instagram.com/ambitiousbookkeeperConnect on Threads: threads.net/@ambitiousbookkeeperConnect on Facebook: Facebook.com/serenashoupcpaPodcast Publishing Tools we use:Podcast Editing: Sabr Media LLCDescript (affiliate link)Buzzsprout (affiliate link)AFFILIATE DISCLAIMERWe participate in affiliate marketing programs, which means we may earn a commission from purchases made through the links on our blog. However, our recommendations are based on our own research and expertise, and your trust is our priority.Get access to the Dubsado Decoded Private Podcast Series here>> Join me and Alyssa Lang, the Workflow Queen for The Advisory Edge Workshop - only $97 > Grab the Spotify Playlists here: ambitiousbookkeeper.com/spotify

Send us a textHey ambitious bookkeepers! In this week's audio-only episode, I'm getting real about a bold statement: entrepreneurship isn't hard. I know, I know - you're probably thinking I've lost it, right? But hear me out. This episode dives into how our mindset and the people we surround ourselves with can completely shift our experience as business owners.In this episode you’ll hear:Why it matters who you hang aroundThe issues with "venting" sessions with other business ownersThe positive, abundant community we've built here and how you can find (or create) the same energy in your circleResources mentioned in this episode:Behind The Scenes NewsletterThanks for listening. If this episode inspired you in some way, take a screenshot of you listening on your device and post it to your Instagram stories and tag me @ambitiousbookkeeperFor more information about the Ambitious Bookkeeper Podcast or interest in our programs or mentoring visit our resources below:Visit our website: https://www.ambitiousbookkeeper.comFollow the Blog: https://www.ambitiousbookkeeper.com/blogConnect on Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/ambitiousbookkeeperConnect on Threads: https://www.threads.net/@ambitiousbookkeeperConnect on Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/serenashoupcpaThank you for your support of our show. If you haven’t left a review yet it’s super simple. Please go to ambitiousbookkeeper.com/podcast and leave your review.Podcast Publishing Tools we use:Editing → Sabr Media LLC: https://www.iangilliam.com/sabr-media-llcDescript: https://get.descript.com/u7lubkx09073 (affiliate link)Buzzsprout: https://www.buzzsprout.com/?referrer_id=1753696 (affiliate link)

Send us a textToday I'm re-airing one of my favorite spotlight episodes featuring two incredible BBA students - Erin and Misa. These ladies built thriving bookkeeping businesses from absolutely nothing, and I'm sharing their real, raw stories plus giving you an update on where they are now (spoiler alert: they're both crushing it!). If you've been wondering whether you can actually make this work while juggling life, work, and family, this episode is going to give you all the inspiration you need.In this episode you’ll hear:Erin's journey from corporate burnout to 11 clients in 6 monthsMisa's strategic approach to building her businessReal talk about overcoming limiting beliefs and handling rejectionThe power of community and external accountabilityResources mentioned in this episode:Bookkeeping Business Accelerator: https://www.ambitiousbookkeeper.com/vipAsana, QBO, UpWorkGretchen Rubin, Human Design, Cloud Accounting PodcastMeet ErinAs Founder of UpKeeping® and a proud student in The Ambitious Bookkeeper community, Erin is changing the old & boring stereotypes of the accounting industry. Erin and her team support new entrepreneurs and already-established small business owners by being their #1 financial cheerleader/concierge/communicator.Connect with Erin👥 Linkedin: https://www.linkedin.com/in/erinpohan/Meet MisaAs the founder and CEO of Perfectly Kept Books®, she is on a mission to help women get comfortable with their numbers so they can feel empowered to make better business decisions. Misa knows that bookkeeping can be a real barrier to success, and she is passionate about removing that barrier by making bookkeeping easy and stress-free.Connect with Misa🌐 Website: www.perfectlykeptbooks.com📱 Instagram: @perfectlykeptbooksThanks for listening. If this episode inspired you in some way, take a screenshot of you listening on your device and post it to your Instagram stories and tag me @ambitiousbookkeeperFor more information about the Ambitious Bookkeeper Podcast or interest in our programs or mentoring visit our resources below:Visit our website: https://www.ambitiousbookkeeper.comFollow the Blog: https://www.ambitiousbookkeeper.com/blogConnect on Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/ambitiousbookkeeperConnect on Threads: https://www.threads.net/@ambitiousbookkeeperConnect on Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/serenashoupcpaThank you for your support of our show. If you haven’t left a review yet it’s super simple. Please go to ambitiousbookkeeper.com/podcast and leave your review.Podcast Publishing Tools we use:Editing → Sabr Media LLC: https://www.iangilliam.com/sabr-media-Get access to the Dubsado Decoded Private Podcast Series here>> Join me and Alyssa Lang, the Workflow Queen for The Advisory Edge Workshop - only $97 > Grab the Spotify Playlists here: ambitiousbookkeeper.com/spotify

Send us a textHey everyone! This month's live Q&A was packed with so many golden nuggets for your bookkeeping business. We covered everything from client management to getting started with confidence - basically all the real stuff you're dealing with day-to-day.In this episode you’ll hear:Getting Clients in Niche MarketsHandling Unresponsive ClientsRecording Startup ExpensesBookkeeping Practice TestsUsing Airtable, Asana, and DubsadoClient Management and Team StructureMigrating New Clients to Xero from QBOConnecting Credit Unions to XeroAnd More!Resources mentioned in this episode:Bookkeeping Business Accelerator: https://www.ambitiousbookkeeper.com/vipBookkeeping Biz Workshops: http://bkworkshops.online/One-on-one mentoring sessions: https://www.ambitiousbookkeeper.com/contactXero: https://xeroamericas.partnerlinks.io/79afz10exu7dDubsado: https://www.dubsado.com/?c=shoupcpaOpen Phone: https://openph.one/referral/XA0kFFRExcel, Asana, Airtable, QBO, Jet ConvertThanks for listening. If this episode inspired you in some way, take a screenshot of you listening on your device and post it to your Instagram stories and tag me @ambitiousbookkeeperFor more information about the Ambitious Bookkeeper Podcast or interest in our programs or mentoring visit our resources below:Visit our website: https://www.ambitiousbookkeeper.comFollow the Blog: https://www.ambitiousbookkeeper.com/blogConnect on Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/ambitiousbookkeeperConnect on Threads: https://www.threads.net/@ambitiousbookkeeperConnect on Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/serenashoupcpaThank you for your support of our show. If you haven’t left a review yet it’s super simple. Please go to ambitiousbookkeeper.com/podcast and leave your review.Podcast Publishing Tools we use:Editing → Sabr Media LLC: https://www.iangilliam.com/sabr-media-llcDescript: https://get.descript.com/u7lubkx09073 (affiliate link)Buzzsprout: https://www.buzzsprout.com/?referrer_id=1753696 (affiliate link)Get access to the Dubsado Decoded Private Podcast Series here>> Join me and Alyssa Lang, the Workflow Queen for The Advisory Edge Workshop - only $97 > Grab the Spotify Playlists here: ambitiousbookkeeper.com/spotify

Send us a textHey ambitious bookkeepers! In this episode, I'm getting real about my "accidental" start in accounting and why NOW is always the best time to start your bookkeeping business. I'm sharing my journey from elementary education major to single mom working at a health food co-op, all the way to building my own virtual bookkeeping firm while raising kids. Spoiler alert: success doesn't require a perfect plan!In this episode you’ll hear:How I got into accountingThe exact steps I took to transition from corporate controller to freelance bookkeeperLessons I learned the hard way so you don’t have toand much more!Resources mentioned in this episode:The Bookkeeping Business Accelerator🎙️ Should you get your CPA license? - Not sure if getting your CPA license is the right step for you? Listen to this episode!Thanks for listening. If this episode inspired you in some way, take a screenshot of you listening on your device and post it to your Instagram stories and tag me, @ambitiousbookkeeperFor more information about the Ambitious Bookkeeper Podcast or interest in our programs or mentoring visit our resources below:Visit our website: ambitiousbookkeeper.comFollow the Blog: ambitiousbookkeeper.com/blogConnect on Instagram: instagram.com/ambitiousbookkeeperConnect on LinkedIn: Linkedin.com/in/SerenaShoupConnect on Facebook: Facebook.com/serenashoupcpaThank you for your support of our show. If you haven’t left a review yet it’s super simple. Please go to ambitiousbookkeeper.com/podcast and leave your review.Podcast Publishing Tools we use:Podcast Editing: Sabr Media LLCDescript (affiliate link)Buzzsprout (affiliate link)Get access to the Dubsado Decoded Private Podcast Series here>> Grab the Spotify Playlists here: ambitiousbookkeeper.com/spotify