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  • Ep.69: Human nature is undefeated
    2025/03/10


    Welcome to CPA Career Paths, Episode 69. Today, we’re joined by Alan Whitman—Strategy & Growth Advisor, CEO Coach, Investor, and PE Advisor. Alan shares his journey as a leader in the CPA profession, discussing leadership challenges, mindset shifts, and strategic growth. We also dive into work-life balance and key advice for young professionals looking to advance in their careers.

    ✨ This episode is proudly sponsored by Chapman University's Argyros School of Business and Economics. Considering a master's in accounting? Their MSA program offers personalized attention from world-class faculty, intimate class sizes, and a flexible structure designed for ambitious professionals. Learn more and apply at
    chapman.edu/msa



    00:00 - The Challenges of Leadership – Navigating obstacles and tough decisions in leadership roles.

    04:12 - Changing Mindsets: A Step-by-Step Approach – How to shift perspectives for personal and professional growth.

    07:34 - Breaking the Mold: A Vision for Change – Innovating and challenging industry norms to drive progress.

    11:09 - The Role of Strategy in Success – The importance of strategic thinking in achieving long-term goals.

    13:10 - Key Traits of Successful People – Essential habits and characteristics of high achievers.

    14:16 - Finding Balance in Life After a Busy Career – Managing work, family, and personal well-being after years in the field.

    16:38 - Advice for Young Professionals – Practical tips for career growth and standing out in the CPA profession.

    If you found value in this episode, don’t forget to like, subscribe, and turn on notifications for future content.
    Drop a comment below—What’s your biggest takeaway from Alan’s insights?
    Follow us on social media for more CPA career insights.


    #CPACareerPaths #AlanWhitman #CPA #AccountingCareers #Leadership #SuccessMindset #CareerAdvice #WorkLifeBalance #AccountingSuccess #ProfessionalGrowth #YoungCPAs #FinanceCareers #CPAExam #MindsetShift #CareerGrowth #Entrepreneurship



    http://www.youtube.com/@CPACareerPaths

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    21 分
  • Ep.68: Slow Down to Speed Up
    2025/03/03

    Struggling to navigate leadership challenges and career transitions? In this episode, I sit down with Alan Whitman—Strategy & Growth Advisor, CEO Coach, Investor, and PE Advisor—to explore key insights on leadership, mentorship, and business growth.

    We discuss the importance of building strong professional relationships, the role of mentorship vs. coaching, and how to manage change effectively. Whether you're an executive, entrepreneur, or aspiring leader, this episode is packed with actionable strategies to help you advance in your career.


    00:00 - Introduction – A brief introduction to the episode, the host, and guest Alan Whitman, highlighting his experience as a strategy and growth advisor.

    01:46 - Choosing Accounting: A Childhood Decision – Alan shares what initially drew him to accounting and how his early interest shaped his career path.

    02:55 - Early Career in Public Accounting – Insights into Alan’s first roles in public accounting, the skills he developed, and the challenges he faced.

    04:32 - The Value of Public Accounting – How public accounting provides a strong foundation for leadership and business success.

    05:52 - Building Strong Connections – Alan explains why maintaining professional relationships is essential for long-term career growth and business success.

    07:25 - Balancing Relationships & Responsibilities – How to effectively manage both professional duties and personal relationships without burnout.

    08:16 - Learning from Others: Mentorship & Knowledge Sources – Alan shares how mentorship, networking, and continuous learning have influenced his success.

    10:50 - Lessons from Career Growth – Key leadership and career lessons Alan has learned throughout his journey.

    14:46 - Mentorship vs. Coaching – A deep dive into the differences between mentorship and coaching and how each contributes to career development.

    17:19 - Navigating Uncomfortable Change – How to embrace change, adapt to challenges, and use transitions as opportunities for growth.

    19:44 - Expanding Baker Tilly’s Reach – Insights into Alan’s role in growing Baker Tilly and lessons on scaling a business.

    If you're looking for expert advice on leadership, business strategy, and career development, this episode is for you!


    ✅ Follow this podcast for more leadership and career insights!
    ⭐ Rate & Review if you found this episode valuable!
    📢 Share this episode with colleagues & friends who want to level up their careers!

    #Leadership #BusinessStrategy #CEOCoach #AccountingCareers #Mentorship #ProfessionalGrowth #ExecutiveCoaching #CareerDevelopment #FinancePodcast #AlanWhitman #RoseyFlaherty #Podcast #WorkplaceCulture #Networking #SuccessTips



    http://www.youtube.com/@CPACareerPaths

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    23 分
  • Ep.67: Take advantage of the learning experiences
    2025/02/24

    Struggling to balance career growth with personal life?

    In this episode, I sit down with Sharon Onuma, CPA (Tax Senior Manager at EY) to discuss essential strategies for advancing in leadership while maintaining work-life harmony. Whether you're an aspiring CPA, a tax professional, or a leader looking for productivity hacks, this episode is packed with actionable insights to help you thrive in your career and personal life.


    This episode is proudly sponsored by Chapman University's Argyros School of Business and Economics. Considering a master's in accounting? Their MSA program offers personalized attention from world-class faculty, intimate class sizes, and a flexible structure designed for ambitious professionals. Learn more and apply at chapman.edu/msa

    00:00 - Sponsor Ad

    01:19 - Balancing Managerial Responsibilities and Focus Time – Managing leadership demands efficiently.

    02:19 - Tips to Stay Organized and Productive – Practical time management tips.

    03:25 - Encouraging Employees to Ask Questions – Creating a workplace culture of learning.

    05:11 - The Importance of Research Before Asking Questions – Why preparation is key.

    06:45 - Transitioning from Manager to Senior Manager – What to expect in leadership growth.

    07:26 - Managing Career Growth and Personal Life – Finding balance in professional advancement.

    08:58 - Guidance for New Parents at Work – Tips for working parents navigating their careers.

    10:08 - Achieving Work-Life Balance – Realistic methods for maintaining harmony.

    11:29 - Building Trust in the Workplace – Leadership skills for credibility.

    12:41 - Building a Personal Brand Beyond Work – Standing out in your industry.

    15:44 - The Importance of a Time Audit – How analyzing your schedule boosts efficiency.

    18:45 - Prioritizing Self-Care – Why well-being is essential for success.

    19:27 - The Discipline to Follow a Schedule – Developing habits for career growth.

    22:02 - Reflections on Career Growth – Key lessons from Sharon’s leadership journey.

    23:40 - A Fun Fact About Sharon – Get to know her beyond her career.

    24:18 - Traveling with a Young Daughter – Balancing family, career, and travel.


    If you're looking for strategies to excel in your career while maintaining personal balance, this episode is for you!


    Follow this podcast for more career and leadership insights!
    Rate & Review if you found this episode valuable!
    📢 Share this episode with colleagues & friends who need career inspiration!


    #CareerGrowth #Leadership #CPA #TaxManager #AccountingCareers #WorkLifeBalance #PersonalBranding #BigFourAccounting #ProductivityTips #TimeManagement #SelfCare #WomenInAccounting #LeadershipSkills #CareerDevelopment #FinancePodcast #EY #BPM #AccountingSuccess

    http://www.youtube.com/@CPACareerPaths

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    27 分
  • Ep.66: It’s a Marathon, not a Sprint
    2025/02/17

    In this episode of CPA Career Paths, I sit down with Sharon Onuma, Certified Public Accountant, to discuss her incredible journey from tech staff to senior manager at EY. Sharon shares valuable insights on career growth, CPA exam success, time management, and staying organized in a demanding profession. Whether you're a student, CPA candidate, or an accounting professional, this episode is packed with motivation and practical advice!


    00:00 - Introduction – Meet our guest, Sharon Onuma, CPA, and get an overview of today’s episode.
    01:58 - Choosing Accounting as a Career – Why Sharon chose accounting and how she got started.
    04:13 - Internship and Early Career at EY – Insights into her internship experience and first role at EY.
    05:18 - Building Connections as a Student – The importance of networking during college.
    06:31 - Choosing EY Over Other Big Four Firms – Why she picked EY and what set it apart.
    07:58 - Time Management and Organization – Tips on staying efficient in a fast-paced career.
    09:26 - Journey of her YouTube Channel - The CPA Experience – How Sharon started her YouTube channel and why.
    11:48 - Tips for CPA Exam Success – Study strategies and advice for passing the CPA exam.
    15:48 - Visualize Success for Motivation – How mindset and visualization help with career goals.
    18:59 - Study Plans: Standard vs. Customizing – Finding the right CPA study approach.
    20:38 - The Feeling of Passing the CPA Exam Before Starting a Full-Time Job – What it’s like to achieve CPA success before entering the workforce.
    22:48 - Transitioning from Internship to Full-Time at EY – How she adapted to full-time work.
    24:08 - Choosing a Career in Tax – Why Sharon pursued tax instead of other accounting paths.
    26:30 - Lessons from the Tax Staff Role – Key takeaways from her early years in tax.
    28:09 - The Transition from Staff to Senior – The responsibilities and challenges of moving up.
    29:14 - The Leap from Senior to Manager – The major jump in leadership and expectations.
    30:58 - How to Stay Organized as a Tax Manager? – Sharon’s personal strategies for staying on top of everything.


    🎧 Listen now and take your CPA journey to the next level!

    ✅ Don’t forget to like, comment, and subscribe!
    💬 Share your biggest takeaway in the comments!
    🔔 Turn on notifications so you never miss an episode!


    #CertifiedPublicAccountant #CPALife #CPAExam #FutureOfCPA #CPACertification #BigFour #EY #AccountingCareer #CareerGrowth #TaxManager #TheCPAExperience #PublicAccounting #AccountingTips #TimeManagement #Organization #Finance #Audit #CareerAdvice #StudyMotivation #SuccessStory #FinanceJobs #ProfessionalGrowth #CPAStudyTips #CPAJourney #BecomingACPA #AccountingStudents #CPAExamSuccess



    http://www.youtube.com/@CPACareerPaths

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    32 分
  • Ep.65: Be the manager you wish you had
    2025/02/10

    Join me, Rosey Flaherty, on CPA Career Paths as I sit down with Mike Maksymiw to dive into the challenges and triumphs of building a successful career in accounting. In this episode, Mike shares his journey of overcoming obstacles after mergers, recognizing leadership styles, and thriving in firm culture. From the importance of conversations in management to the fear of speaking up, this episode is packed with actionable advice for professionals at every stage of their career.


    ✨ This episode is proudly sponsored by Chapman University's Argyros School of Business and Economics. Considering a master's in accounting? Their MSA program offers personalized attention from world-class faculty, intimate class sizes, and a flexible structure designed for ambitious professionals. Learn more and apply at
    chapman.edu/msa


    🔑 Key Topics Discussed:



    00.00 - Sponsor Ad
    01:17 - Overcoming Challenges After Merging: Mike opens up about the hurdles he faced during mergers and how he navigated through them.

    03:20 - Recognizing Leadership Style: Learn how to identify and develop your unique leadership approach.

    04:26 - Advice to Survive in Firm Culture: Mike shares practical tips for thriving in the often-complex world of firm culture.

    06:13 - The Importance of Conversations in Management: Discover why open communication is key to effective leadership.

    06:50 - The Fear of Speaking Up: We discuss why so many professionals struggle with this and how to overcome it.

    07:24 - A Personal Experience with Speaking Up: Mike shares a powerful story about finding his voice in a challenging situation.

    09:34 - Overcoming the Fear of Conversation: Practical strategies to build confidence in having tough conversations.

    11:08 - Helping Staff Succeed in Networking: Tips for mentoring your team to build strong professional networks.

    13:03 - First-Time Networking Experiences: Mike reflects on his early networking days and what he learned.

    14:00 - Moving to Aprio Firm Alliance: Hear about Mike’s transition to Aprio and how it shaped his career.

    17:18 - From Technical Work to Leadership Focus: Learn how Mike shifted from technical roles to leadership and what it takes to make that leap.

    18:55 - Keys Affecting the Future of the Accounting Profession: Mike shares his insights on trends shaping the industry.

    21:13 - Technology's Role in Bridging the Talent Gap: How tech is revolutionizing accounting and addressing talent shortages.

    27:33 - Discovering the Fun Side of Life: Mike talks about the importance of enjoying life outside of work.

    28:50 - Balancing Work and Travel: Tips for maintaining a healthy work-life balance while pursuing your passions.

    31:46 - Advice for Young Professionals – Career Growth Tips: Mike’s top recommendations for building a successful and fulfilling career.

    💡 Whether you're a young professional or a seasoned leader, this episode is a must-listen for anyone looking to grow in their accounting career!


    🔔 Subscribe to CPA Career Paths for more insights and advice from industry leaders!
    👍 Enjoyed this episode? Give it a thumbs up and share it with your network!
    💬 Let us know in the comments: What’s your biggest challenge in your accounting career, and how are you overcoming it?

    #CPACareerAdvice #AccountingLeadership #CareerGrowth #NetworkingTips #AccountingPodcast #LeadershipStyles #OvercomingChallenges #WorkLifeBalance #YoungProfessionals #AccountingTechnology



    http://www.youtube.com/@CPACareerPaths

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    33 分
  • Ep.64: Building A Career in Accounting
    2025/02/03

    In this episode of CPA Career Paths, Mike Maksymiw, a seasoned leader in the accounting world, shares his inspiring journey from working at a local firm to becoming a key player in a national powerhouse.

    In this video, we’re covering:

    00:00 - Introduction to Mike and His Role:
    Mike introduces himself and shares his current role in the accounting industry.

    01:02 - What Makes a Great Place to Work?
    Mike discusses the qualities of a great workplace and the environment that encourages personal and professional growth.

    02:07 - Mike's Early Career and Choosing Accounting:
    Mike reflects on how he started his career in accounting and what led him to pursue this field.

    03:29 - Working with Family and First Job Experience:
    Mike talks about his first job experiences and the challenges and benefits of working with family.

    04:49 - Landing the First Job After Graduation:
    He shares how he secured his first job after graduation and the lessons learned during that time.

    07:05 - Overcoming Challenges in Client Communication:
    Mike highlights the common challenges accountants face when communicating with clients and how he navigated them.

    10:25 - Understanding and Communicating with the Client:
    He delves deeper into the importance of understanding clients' needs and effectively communicating to build strong relationships.

    13:37 - Chasing Experience Instead of Title:
    Mike emphasizes that gaining experience is more important than simply chasing a job title, sharing his own career philosophy.

    14:52 - Lessons from Personal Growth:
    Mike reflects on his personal growth throughout his career and the valuable lessons he's learned along the way.

    17:41 - Leadership Academy and Career Development:
    Mike talks about his involvement in leadership development programs and how they shaped his approach to career advancement.

    19:16 - Why Mike Moved to a New Firm:
    He shares his reasons for moving to a new firm and how it impacted his career trajectory.

    20:06 - Transition to a Local Accounting Firm:
    Mike discusses the transition from a national firm to a local accounting firm and the changes that came with it.

    21:22 - The Desire to Constantly Improve:
    Mike talks about his drive for continuous improvement and how it has been a key factor in his success.

    22:53 - Learning Through Sports: Mike’s Growth Mindset:
    He draws parallels between the lessons learned through sports and his approach to professional development and mindset.

    25:03 - Managing People and Being Yourself:
    Mike discusses the importance of authenticity in leadership and how managing people requires staying true to oneself.

    26:51 - The Turning Point: Breaking Down the Walls of Self-Doubt:
    He shares a pivotal moment in his career when he overcame self-doubt and embraced his potential as a leader.

    29:04 - Importance of Feedback to Grow:
    Mike explains why feedback is crucial for professional growth and how he used it to evolve in his career.

    30:48 - Mike’s Advice for Overcoming Professional Barriers:
    He offers practical advice for overcoming common barriers in the professional world, especially for accountants.

    32:18 - The Journey to Partner at Filamino:
    Mike reflects on his journey to becoming a partner at Filamino and the challenges and accomplishments along the way.

    33:26 - The Positive Approach to the Merger:
    Mike discusses his positive mindset during the merger with Markham and how he navigated the transition successfully.

    #cpacareerpaths, #leadershipjourney, #accountingcareer, #businessleaders, #careeradvice, #professionaldevelopment,

    http://www.youtube.com/@CPACareerPaths

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    35 分
  • Ep.63: Trust as Accounting's Foundation
    2025/01/27

    🎙️ Welcome to Episode 63 of the podcast!

    I’m Rosey Flaherty, and today we continue our conversation with Barry Melancon. Explore the incredible journey of accounting transformation with insights from a leader who has driven change within the AICPA.


    📅 Note: Barry officially retired on December 31, 2024. This interview was conducted on December 16, 2024, while he was still serving as CEO and President of AICPA.

    ✨ This episode is proudly sponsored by Chapman University's Argyros School of Business and Economics. Considering a master's in accounting? Their MSA program offers personalized attention from world-class faculty, intimate class sizes, and a flexible structure designed for ambitious professionals. Learn more and apply at chapman.edu/msa

    In this episode, Barry shares his unparalleled insights into the accounting profession, covering:


    00:00 Sponsor Ad

    1:15 - Missing Client Service Work
    Discussing the value of client service work and why it’s such an important part of the accounting profession.

    2:34 - Impacting the Profession
    Exploring how accounting professionals can make a difference and create meaningful change in the industry.

    6:15 - The Evolution of the Profession
    Looking at how the accounting field has transformed over time and adapted to new challenges.

    7:12 - Global Perspective and Changes
    Talking about the influence of global standards and the importance of having an international outlook in accounting.

    10:39 - Great CPA Vs. Good CPA
    Highlighting the key traits that separate great CPAs from good ones and what makes them excel.

    13:28 - Technological Shifts in the CPA Exam
    A discussion on how technology, like computerized exams and AI, has revolutionized the CPA examination process.

    16:11 - A CPA Vs. A Doctor
    Comparing the role of a CPA to that of a doctor, focusing on the shared responsibility and trust in both professions.

    17:49 - Habits to be Successful in a CPA Career
    Tips and insights into the habits and mindset needed for long-term success as a CPA.

    21:19 - Tips and Advice for Professionals
    Concluding with practical advice for accountants and professionals to help them grow in their careers.

    #AccountingPodcast #CPAExam #AIInAccounting #AICPA #AccountingCareers #ChapmanUniversity #GlobalAccounting #AccountingInnovation #CPALeadership #AccountingEthics #ProfessionalDevelopment #CPAInsights #ChapmanMSA #CPAEvolution #AITransformation #CPAEducation #FutureOfAccounting #EthicsInAccounting #CPAProfession #AccountingTrends #ComputerizedCPA #GlobalStandards #TrustInAccounting #AccountingOpportunities



    http://www.youtube.com/@CPACareerPaths

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    23 分
  • Ep.62: Leadership, Growth and Career Insights
    2025/01/20

    In this episode, I chat with Barry Melancon, who has been the CEO of AICPA for over 30 years! Barry shares his incredible journey from growing up in Louisiana to leading the world’s largest accounting organization. We dive into leadership lessons, the rise of AI in accounting, and what the future holds for the profession. If you’re looking for career advice or insights on how technology is shaping accounting, this episode is for you!

    📅 Note: Barry officially retired on December 31, 2024. This interview was conducted on December 16, 2024, while he was still serving as CEO and President of AICPA.

    In this episode, we cover:

    • 00:00- Introduction: I introduce Barry Melancon and highlight his incredible career in the accounting world.
    • 02:12 - Leadership Academy Experience: Barry reflects on his time at the Leadership Academy and how it shaped his career.
    • 03:25 - The Importance of Evolving Professions: We discuss the importance of adapting professions, especially in the face of technological advancements.
    • 04:13 - The Speed of Change in Technology: Barry talks about how quickly technology is changing the accounting profession and its impact on leaders.
    • 05:24 - Barry’s Journey in Accounting: Barry shares his career journey, from his early days to becoming a top leader in the field.
    • 11:22 - The Goal to Become a Partner by 25: Barry reveals his early career aspirations and how he achieved his goal of becoming a partner at a young age.
    • 12:37 - Balancing Work and Personal Life: We dive into the challenges of balancing a successful career with personal life and relationships.
    • 14:06 - The Louisiana Society and the Call for Leadership: Barry discusses his leadership role within the Louisiana Society and what it taught him.
    • 15:41 - The Importance of Goal Setting and Adaptability: Barry emphasizes the value of setting goals and being adaptable in your career and leadership journey.
    • 20:50 - The Challenges of Leadership: We wrap up the conversation with a look at the unique challenges leaders face and how to navigate them.

    👉 Don’t forget to hit subscribe for more career tips and inspiring interviews!

    #BarryMelancon #Leadership #CareerAdvice #AIinAccounting #AccountingFuture #AccountingProfession #ProfessionalGrowth #AccountingInsights #LeadershipLessons #AICPA #CareerDevelopment #AccountingCareer #FutureOfAccounting #AccountingTechnology #BusinessLeadership #LeadershipGrowth #AccountingInnovation #ArtificialIntelligence #AccountingTips





    http://www.youtube.com/@CPACareerPaths

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    24 分