Hiring a Bookkeeper: Lessons from Pre-Screening Candidates

Is Your QuickBooks Account Really Secure What You Need to Know About Intuit Hacks

In Episode 42 of the Bookkeeping Lily Pad Podcast, Rachel shares important information about a growing security concern: unauthorized access to Intuit accounts, including QuickBooks Online. She discusses how these breaches happen, why commonly used login credentials put users at risk, and what steps you can take to better secure your account. Topics include user ID best practices, the limitations of multi-factor authentication, setting up passkeys, and the need for a 24/7 Intuit response option for compromised accounts. This episode offers practical guidance for bookkeepers, accountants, and small business owners who rely on QuickBooks and want to ensure their data—and their clients’ data—stays protected.

Every Discovery Call Counts: What I’ve Learned from Taking the Call Anyway

Ever look at a discovery call intake form and think, “There’s no way I can help this person”? You’re not alone. In this episode, Rachel Barnett shares a real story about nearly turning down a call that turned out to be one of the most rewarding of the week. She talks about why jargon-filled forms can be misleading, how to approach calls with curiosity (not fear), and the unexpected value in simply showing up. Whether you’re a new or seasoned bookkeeper, this episode is your reminder that you probably know more than you think—and every call is a chance to help someone.

How to Name Your Bookkeeping Business (Without Regrets)

Struggling to name your business—or thinking about a rebrand? In this episode, Rachel Barnett shares what she’s learned from naming two of her own businesses, including what worked, what didn’t, and what she’d do differently. She covers common pitfalls to avoid, tips for choosing a name that can grow with you, and why spelling and domain availability really matter. Whether you're brainstorming your first business name or considering a fresh start, this episode is packed with helpful insights (and a few laughs).

Thinking of Starting a Bookkeeping Business? Let’s Talk About It

Are you thinking about starting your own bookkeeping business—or any kind of business? In this honest and personal episode, Rachel Barnett shares her own unexpected journey into business ownership and the lessons she’s learned over 13 years. From setting realistic expectations to the importance of naming and defining what you actually want, Rachel explores what it really means to build a business from scratch. If you’ve ever thought, “Should I do this?”—this episode is for you. Pour a cup of tea and let’s talk it through.

Hiring a Bookkeeper: Lessons from Pre-Screening Candidates

Hiring the right bookkeeper can be a challenge—how do you know if someone truly has the skills they claim? In this episode, Rachel Barnett shares her experience pre-screening bookkeepers for a business, reviewing hundreds of resumes, conducting technical interviews, and refining the hiring process. She explains what worked, what she’d do differently, and how business owners can improve their own hiring process. If you're looking to hire a bookkeeper—or wondering how to stand out as a candidate—this episode is full of insights you won’t want to miss!