Bean Counter to Boss - Powered by XBert

Christmas Special

In this festive episode of the Bean Counter to Boss podcast, Santa, Rudolph, and Santa's Helper share their holiday experiences, discuss the busy season for accountants, and explore the fun and challenges of Christmas preparations. They delve into tax deductions for festive treats, share stories about Christmas presents, and debate their favourite holiday foods. Spoiler alert, someone doesn't like Christmas dinner (or roast dinners!) The conversation also touches on Christmas party experiences, humorous 'Would You Rather' scenarios related to accounting, and reflections on the changing nature of holiday celebrations. The episode wraps up with warm wishes for the holiday season and plans for future episodes.

Episode 6 - Pricing With Confidence: Value vs Time

In episode six of Bean Counter to Boss, Will, Amy and James chat about one of the biggest challenges in running an accounting practice: pricing confidently. Amy reflects on starting out massively undercharging - cutting her old audit charge-out rate down to “mates rates” and how long it took to rebuild her pricing and confidence. She shares how tools like Ignition, repricing exercises, and understanding her own margins helped her move toward healthier, fixed-fee pricing. James talks about his practice’s shift from underpriced early clients to targeting sustainable turnover and margins, and how giving away too much time can quietly erode profitability. A holiday epiphany pushed him to reset processes, revisit pricing, and separate compliance from advisory so clients clearly see what they’re paying for. Together, they dig into: * Fixed vs hourly billing * Monthly billing and cashflow * Pricing audits and large projects * Communicating software and fee increases * Clients taking back their bookkeeping * The confidence needed to stop discounting and stand firm on value They close with advice for new practice owners: do proper market research and know your worth. The trio tease a follow-up episode focused entirely on value pricing. The Bean Counter to Boss podcast is powered by XBert. XBert is your trusty accounting and bookkeeping sidekick, tirelessly checking the data for errors and helping you manage workflow easily. Process, visibility and data quality control in one AI driven system. Visit the website to start a free trial or find out more [https://riverside.fm/dashboard/studios/will-rushs-studio/www.xbert.io]

Guest Episode - Leigh Stallard of Nomad Video

In this episode, Leigh Stallard discusses the significance of video content in the accounting industry, sharing his journey from working in practice to founding a video production company. He emphasises how video can enhance client engagement, onboarding, and education, while also providing practical tips for accountants looking to leverage video in their practices. The conversation covers the importance of understanding client needs, creating valuable content, and building relationships through effective communication. The Bean Counter to Boss podcast is powered by XBert. XBert is your trusty accounting and bookkeeping sidekick, tirelessly checking the data for errors and helping you manage workflow easily. Process, visibility and data quality control in one AI driven system. Visit the website to start a free trial or find out more [https://riverside.fm/dashboard/studios/will-rushs-studio/www.xbert.io]

Episode 5 - Winning Clients: from zero to full book

In episode five of Bean Counter to Boss, hosts Will, Amy and James Goulsbra dig into the question every new firm faces: how do you win clients from a standing start? Amy shares how a single favour snowballed into steady work and why Facebook groups and Google reviews still matter. James talks through getting out of his comfort zone, using conversations to shape his offer, and why delegating marketing can be a game changer. They compare what actually works on LinkedIn vs Facebook, how to build referral streams, and the realities of SEO, websites, and ProAdvisor listings. You will also hear practical ways to stop giving away free advice, from setting firm meeting limits to swapping “quick chats” for structured consultations. The trio finish with ideas for workshops and local meet ups that position you as the go to accountant in your community. Highlights: * From side hustle to first ten clients: Amy’s playbook for small town traction * James’s direct approach to networking and using conversations to refine your pitch * Turning word of mouth into a system: simple referral incentives and tracking * Social strategy that fits your audience: Facebook groups, LinkedIn for peers, and when to post blogs * Google reviews that move the needle, without paid ads * Guardrails for free advice: time limits, pre agreed fees, and smart follow ups * Events that convert: host a workshop or low key meet up to build trust locally The Bean Counter to Boss podcast is powered by XBert. XBert is your trusty accounting and bookkeeping sidekick, tirelessly checking the data for errors and helping you manage workflow easily. Process, visibility and data quality control in one AI driven system. Visit the website to start a free trial or find out more [www.xbert.io]

Guest Episode - Luke Farren of The Modern Firm

In this guest episode of the Bean Counter to Boss podcast, hosts Will Rush and James Goulsbra sit down with Luke Farren, founder of The Modern Firm, to explore the realities of leaving corporate stability for entrepreneurial freedom. Luke shares his journey from leading integrations at Cooper Parry to launching The Modern Firm, a consultancy helping accountancy practices modernise through smarter tech, streamlined processes, and cultural change. Together, they unpack the traps firms fall into when chasing too much tech, why process should come before platforms, and how leaders can empower their teams to drive digital transformation from within. Expect candid reflections, practical insights for accountants looking to start or scale their own practices, and a few laughs along the way. Highlights: * Why Luke left a corporate role to start The Modern Firm * The importance of process over technology in modern accountancy practices * How to choose the right tech stack (and avoid shiny-object syndrome) * Building a team culture that supports change and innovation * Why leadership means getting out of the way sometimes Quickfire Round: Coffee vs tea, office vs remote, process vs tech, and a surprising take on curry pizzas. The Bean Counter to Boss podcast is powered by XBert. XBert is your trusty accounting and bookkeeping sidekick, tirelessly checking the data for errors and helping you manage workflow easily. Process, visibility and data quality control in one AI driven system. Visit the website to start a free trial or find out more [www.xbert.io]