Ep 17: How Culture and Innovation Drive Growth in Independent CPA Firms with Sara Dayton and Stephanie Wilkinson

Ep 22: How Independent CPA Firms Can Thrive Through AI, Advisory, and Trust with Seth Fineberg

How can independent CPA firms evolve without losing the relationships and values that set them apart? In this episode of The Independent CPA Firm Podcast, host Dave Kells sits down with Seth Fineberg, Founder of Accountants Forward, to discuss how firms can use AI more strategically, move beyond transactional work, and build stronger trust with clients, employees, and technology partners. In this episode, you will be able to: • Understand how AI is reshaping the way CPA firms work and serve clients • Learn why advisory services are becoming essential to long-term growth • Explore how independent firms can compete by investing in people and technology • Discover why flexible, short-term planning matters in a rapidly changing profession • See how trust and better communication can strengthen client and vendor relationships Listen to the full episode of The Independent CPA Firm Podcast to learn how your firm can stay relevant, competitive, and independent! #IndependentCPAFirm #AIinAccounting #AdvisoryServices #AccountingLeadership #WhitmanAdvisory

Ep 21: The Client-First Strategy For Independent CPA Firms

What does it really take to build an independent CPA firm that thrives for the long term? On this episode of the Independent CPA Firm Podcast, Dave Kells sits down with Paul Weinberg, Founder and Managing Partner of Weinberg Partners, Ltd, to discuss the mindset, strategies, and investments that have helped his firm grow for nearly four decades while remaining proudly independent. In this episode, you will be able to: * Learn how to build sustainable, long-term growth without relying on outside capital. * Discover why investing in people, culture, and client relationships creates a lasting competitive advantage. * Understand how AI and technology can improve efficiency while strengthening client service. * Explore practical approaches to remote work, staff development, and succession planning. * Gain insights into why staying independent allows firms to control their future and grow on their own terms. Listen to the full episode to learn Paul’s playbook for building an independent CPA firm that stands the test of time! #IndependentCPAFirm #CPAFirmGrowth #AccountingLeadership #PracticeManagement #WhitmanAdvisory

Ep 20: Building a Stronger CPA Firm Without Giving Up Independence with George Forsythe

Can independent CPA firms continue to grow without sacrificing their culture or control? In this episode of the Independent CPA Firm Podcast, Dave Kells sits down with George Forsythe, Managing Partner of WellsColeman, to discuss how his firm has grown organically while staying independent, investing in technology, and building a people-first culture that attracts both clients and talent. In this episode, you will be able to: * Learn how an independent CPA firm grew from $2 million to over $10 million through organic growth. * Discover why investing in technology and AI can strengthen—not replace—the value accountants provide. * Understand how a strong culture drives talent retention, flexibility, and long-term success. * Explore practical strategies for balancing onshore teams, offshore resources, and emerging technologies. * See why focusing on sustainable growth and enterprise value creates stronger firms for the future. Independence isn’t about standing still—it’s about making intentional investments that help your firm grow on your own terms. Listen to the full episode now! #IndependentCPAFirm #CPAFirmGrowth #AccountingLeadership #PracticeManagement #WhitmanAdvisory

Ep 19: The State Society Advantage for Independent CPA Firms with Denise Bethel and Derrol Moorhead

Are independent CPA firms being left behind—or are they simply missing the right resources? On this episode of the Independent CPA Firm Podcast, Dave Kells is joined by Denise Bethel of the California Society of CPAs and Derrol Moorhead of the Colorado Society of CPAs to discuss how state societies are helping independent firms stay competitive through technology, collaboration, education, and community. In this episode, you will be able to: * Learn how state societies are building programs specifically for independent CPA firms. * Discover practical ways smaller firms can adopt AI and new technology without overspending. * Understand why peer collaboration is one of the biggest advantages for firm growth. * Explore strategies for attracting, developing, and retaining the next generation of accounting professionals. * Find resources, networking opportunities, and educational programs that can help your firm thrive while remaining independent. Listen to the full episode! #IndependentCPAFirm #CPAFirmGrowth #AccountingLeadership #PracticeManagement #WhitmanAdvisory

Ep 18: The Employee Ownership Advantage for Independent CPA Firms with Brian Lang

Why More CPA Firms Are Choosing Employee Ownership to Stay Independent What if you could grow your firm, reward your people, and maintain independence—without turning to private equity? In this episode of The Independent CPA Firm Podcast, Dave Kells sits down with Brian Lang, CEO of SSC CPAs & Advisors, to discuss SSC’s journey to becoming a 100% employee-owned CPA firm and how the ESOP model is driving growth, engagement, and long-term value. In this episode, you will be able to: • Understand how an ESOP supports succession planning and firm independence • Learn how employee ownership strengthens culture, retention, and accountability • Discover SSC’s approach to growth through talent, M&A, and geographic expansion • Explore the role of technology, AI, and transparency in building a stronger firm • See how shared ownership aligns employees around long-term success Whether you’re considering an ESOP or exploring alternatives to private equity, this episode offers valuable insights for independent firm leaders. Listen to the full episode of The Independent CPA Firm Podcast! #CPAFirms #ESOP #EmployeeOwnership #AccountingLeadership #FirmGrowth