Meet Erin!

In this episode of Protea Conversations, Zane interviews Erin Pohan, founder of Upkeeping, who shares her unique journey from customer service to becoming a successful entrepreneur in the accounting industry.

They discuss the importance of intentional growth, the challenges of pursuing a CPA, and the significance of creating relevant educational content.

Erin also talks about her experiences in public accounting, the launch of her own bookkeeping firm, and the community-building efforts through the Wave Seattle conference. The conversation emphasizes the value of connections, mindset, and the entrepreneurial spirit in the accounting world.

Takeaways

- Erin transitioned from customer service to accounting after discovering her passion for it.

- She emphasizes the importance of making accounting relevant and understandable.

- Erin's journey includes significant international experience while working in Japan.

- She faced challenges in passing the CPA exam but found success in her own firm.

- Creating educational content is a way to contribute to the future of accounting.

- Erin started Upkeeping after attending a bookkeeping workshop and quickly gained clients.

- Her firm serves a diverse client base, focusing on joy in the work.

- Continuous improvement in client communication is a key goal for Erin's business.

- Building a supportive team has been crucial for managing workload and stress.

- Networking through social media has helped Erin find her community in the accounting industry.

Chapters

00:00 Introduction to Modern Accounting

02:26 The Journey to Accounting

06:12 Career Development in Public Accounting

08:50 Life and Work in Japan

10:59 Remote Learning Experience

12:02 Navigating CPA Aspirations

16:03 Creating Educational Content

19:56 Becoming an Entrepreneur

21:12 Growth of Upkeeping

23:16 Client Base and Niche Exploration

24:58 Future Goals and Continuous Improvement

27:05 Navigating Burnout and Team Support

32:19 Creating Connections Through Conferences

37:43 The Importance of Vulnerability in Business

42:37 Long-Term Goals and Future Aspirations

44:40 Advice for Aspiring Entrepreneurs

Connect with Erin: LinkedIn personal - https://www.linkedin.com/in/erinpohan/

Meet Isaac!

In this episode of Protea Conversations, Zane speaks with Isaac Perdomo, founder of Opzer, about the transformative power of automation in accounting firms. They discuss the importance of reclaiming time, building client relationships, and overcoming the fear of technology.

Isaac shares his journey from engineering to accounting automation, offers insights from the Dominican Republic, and provides strategies for engaging with firms at various stages of automation.

The conversation also explores the role of AI, practical steps for implementing automation, and the importance of establishing a strong brand. Isaac emphasizes the need for proactive approaches and the importance of team building in achieving business goals.

Takeaways

- Automation is essential for reclaiming time in accounting firms.

- Aligning incentives with clients enhances relationships.

- Fear of technology often stems from the unknown.

- Simple automation tools like bank rules can yield significant benefits.

- Proactive strategies lead to better outcomes in business.

- Building a brand is more important than just running a business.

- Time management is crucial; automation can help free up time.

- Cultural insights can shape business perspectives and strategies.

- Engagement with clients should be tailored to their specific needs.

- Team building is critical for scaling and achieving business goals.

Sound Bites

"Bank rules are a simple win for automation."

"Build a brand, not just a business."

Chapters

00:00 The Importance of Automation in Accounting Firms

02:43 Navigating Client Resistance to Change

05:03 Isaac's Journey from Engineering to Accounting Automation

07:11Cultural Insights from the Dominican Republic

09:46 Deciding to Go Solo in Business

12:11 Engagement Strategies with Accounting Firms

14:59 Overcoming Fear of Technology in Accounting

17:31 Selecting the Right Tools for Accounting Firms

20:04 Identifying Time Wasters in Accounting Firms

21:16 Automating Data Entry for Efficiency and Accuracy

23:02 Exploring Automation Tools in Accounting

25:38 Bridging the Gap: Modernizing Accounting Practices

29:16 Automation 101: Simple Steps to Get Started

30:08 Streamlining Onboarding and Resource Management

30:41 Tailoring Automation Strategies for Different Firms

32:58 Goals and Growth: Building a Sustainable Business

38:00 Building a Brand Beyond Business

40:29 Personal Insights: Who is Isaac Perdomo?

Connect with Isaac: LinkedIn personal - https://www.linkedin.com/in/isaac-perdomo/?locale=en_US

Meet Mike!

In this conversation, Zane interviews Mike Sylvester, a seasoned CPA and partner at SPS CPA Group.

Mike shares his unconventional journey from being a reactor operator in the Navy to becoming a successful accountant and firm leader. He discusses the importance of community, effective marketing strategies, and the challenges of having difficult conversations with clients.

Mike emphasizes the need for accountants to adapt to industry changes, particularly with the rise of AI, and offers valuable advice for aspiring accountants.

Takeaways

- Mike Sylvester has over 20 years of experience in public accounting.

- He transitioned from a military career to accounting later in life.

- Building a successful firm requires strong leadership and systems.

- Difficult conversations with clients are essential for their success.

- Networking and community involvement are crucial for accountants.

- Raising prices annually is a key strategy for firm growth.

- AI will significantly impact the accounting industry in the coming years.

- Effective marketing is about being responsive and providing value.

- Accountants should be adaptable to generational shifts in the workforce.

Sound Bites

"I met my wife in the Navy."

"You need to develop contacts."

"You have to show up."

Chapters

00:00 Introduction to Mike Sylvester and His Journey

04:58 From Military to Accounting: A Unique Path

11:16 Transitioning Careers: The Move to Accounting

14:54 Building a Family Business: Working with a Spouse

20:01 Navigating Tough Conversations with Clients

24:59 Advice for Aspiring Accountants and Firm Owners

29:06 The Value of Honest Conversations in Communities

32:57 Creating a Collaborative Environment

36:36 Marketing Strategies for Accounting Firms

41:28 The Future of Accounting: AI and Industry Changes

44:46 Advice for Newcomers in the Accounting Field

Connect with Mike:

LinkedIn personal - https://www.linkedin.com/in/michael-sylvester-cpa-98b2035/

Where the magic happens - https://x.com/FortWayneCPA