The CFO Project

How to Get Referrals in the Age of ChatGPT & AI

Welcome to The CFO Project Podcast, where host Adam Lean helps accountants, bookkeepers, and CFOs build profitable, advisory-driven firms that clients love. Each episode dives deep into the business side of accounting—how to attract clients, scale advisory services, and create a thriving firm that delivers real value. Whether you’re a seasoned CFO or just beginning to shift away from compliance work, this show will help you master the mindset and tools to grow smarter. In this episode, Adam is joined by Lee Reams, CEO of CountingWorks PRO, to discuss how referrals and client discovery are evolving in the age of ChatGPT and AI. Lee explains why traditional referral loops are being replaced by digital ecosystems where AI tools—like ChatGPT, Perplexity, and Gemini—shape how clients find and evaluate firms. He breaks down how accountants can “feed the machine” through structured content, local SEO, and storytelling that differentiates them from generic firms. If you want to stay relevant, protect your referral flow, and future-proof your marketing in an AI-driven world, this episode is a must-watch for every accountant and virtual CFO.

How to Be Successful as an Advisor

Welcome to The CFO Project Podcast, where host Adam Lean helps accountants and CFOs escape the “accountant’s trap” and build thriving, profitable firms through real-world strategies. Each week, Adam interviews industry leaders, entrepreneurs, and CFOs who share their best insights on running a business, building advisory services, and adding lasting value for clients. In this episode, Adam is joined by Roger Knecht, President of Universal Accounting, to break down what it really takes to be a successful advisor. They explore how the accounting profession is shifting from simply reporting the past to helping clients shape the future — and how firm owners can seize this opportunity. Roger explains the two key factors that determine advisor success, why business owners care more about benefits than features, and how to overcome imposter syndrome by taking action before you feel “ready.” If you want to build confidence, connect with business owners on a deeper level, and position yourself as their trusted guide, this episode is packed with practical advice you can implement right away.

How to Get & Keep Clients by Solving Their Tax Problems

Welcome to The CFO Project Podcast, where host Adam Lean helps accountants and CFOs grow their firms, escape the “accountant’s trap,” and deliver more value to business owners. Each week, Adam interviews top experts and leaders in the accounting profession to share practical strategies for building profitable, advisory-focused practices that make a real difference for clients. In this episode, Adam sits down with Eric Green, founder of Tax Rep Network, to talk about one of the most powerful ways to win and retain clients: solving their tax problems. Eric shares why tax representation is not only a lucrative revenue stream but also one of the best ways to build trust with clients at a critical moment in their business journey. They discuss how leading with solutions to urgent tax issues positions you as a trusted advisor, opens the door for long-term relationships, and creates opportunities to offer higher-value CFO and advisory services. If you want to stand out from competitors and turn one-time tax issues into loyal clients for life, this is an episode you can’t miss.

What Does AI Mean and How Does It Relate to Accounting

Welcome to The CFO Project Podcast, where host Adam Lean dives deep into the challenges and opportunities facing today’s accountants, CFOs, and firm owners. Each episode is designed to help you break free from the “accountant’s trap” by exploring strategies, tools, and insights that fuel sustainable growth. If you want to scale your firm, elevate your client relationships, and build a thriving advisory practice, this podcast is your go-to resource. In this episode, Adam sits down with Chris Farrell, CEO of Liscio, to discuss how artificial intelligence is revolutionizing accounting and CFO advisory services. From eliminating tedious clerical work to enabling smarter client communication, Chris explains how AI will reshape firm efficiency and client value. They explore the difference between public and private AI models, the privacy risks firms need to watch out for, and how tools like semantic search and automated workflows can free accountants to focus on strategy and insight—not paperwork. If you’re curious about where the future of accounting is headed and how to position your firm for success, this conversation is a must-watch.

Why Vulnerable Leadership Is the Future of Accounting

Welcome to The CFO Project Podcast, where host Adam Lean explores the evolving world of CFO services and accounting leadership. Each episode features insights from professionals who are redefining what it means to grow an accounting practice, offer real advisory value, and build a firm that lasts. Whether you're a firm owner, CFO, or aspiring leader, this show will help you break free from outdated mindsets and thrive in today's competitive environment. In this powerful episode, Adam sits down with Randy Crabtree—partner at Tri-Merit and mental health advocate—to discuss how vulnerability in leadership is transforming accounting firms. Randy shares his personal journey, including how a life-changing stroke and years of mental health challenges led him to reevaluate his role and purpose. He explains how leaning into vulnerability as a leader not only sparked 12x firm growth, but also drastically improved team morale, innovation, and retention. This episode dives deep into how CFOs and firm owners can embrace authentic leadership to build sustainable, people-first organizations. Sign Up For Our Newsletter: https://thecfoproject.com/newsletter And check out The CFO Project's free training here: https://thecfoproject.com/start-a-cfo-service Learn More About The CFO Project: https://thecfoproject.com/