Reflecting on 2025: Change, Growth & Gratitude

Part 2 | AI in Practice: Cutting Through the Hype in Accounting

Artificial intelligence may be advancing rapidly but successfully applying it within a firm is far more complex than simply turning on a new tool. In Part 2 of this conversation, Ivan and Jonathan continue their discussion with Anshul Kaushik, Co-Founder and Managing Director of Ryzolv, exploring why so many AI initiatives fail, the critical role of domain expertise and human oversight and how trust is evolving as firms begin integrating AI into their workflows. The conversation also touches on practical accounting use cases, the future role of professionals and simple ways to start building your own AI knowledge and confidence.

Part 1 | AI in Practice: Cutting Through the Hype in Accounting

Artificial intelligence has become one of the biggest topics in accounting — but what does it actually mean for CPAs and firms today? In Part 1 of this two-part episode, Ivan and Jonathan sit down with Anshul Kaushik, Co-Founder and Managing Director of Ryzolv, for a practical conversation about the realities of AI in the profession. Together, they break down key terminology, explain how the technology actually works, and explore important questions around trust, risk, security, and vendor hype. Whether you’ve experimented with AI tools already or still feel unsure where to begin, this episode offers a grounded introduction to the technology and the conversations firms should be having right now.

Bookkeeping Matters: Why Training and Collaboration Are Key

In this AJAG PD Pod episode, Ivan and Jonathan are joined by Naomi Wilkins [https://naomiwilkins.ca/index.html], a bookkeeping and business foundations educator, to explore why strong bookkeeping is the foundation of good accounting work. The conversation looks at the important relationship between CPAs and bookkeepers, the growing demand for well-trained bookkeeping professionals and how practical training and collaboration can improve the quality of client files. Naomi shares insights from her work supporting small businesses and bookkeepers, highlighting why better books ultimately lead to better advice and better outcomes for clients. CPB Canada Entry- Level Quiz: https://portal.cpbcan.ca/courses/cpb-canada-entry-level-quiz/ [https://portal.cpbcan.ca/courses/cpb-canada-entry-level-quiz/]

Can Investment Bookkeeping Really Be Automated? A Conversation with Artiffex

In this episode of the AJAG PD Pod, Ivan and Jonathan are joined by Guy Vadish, Founder and CEO of Artiffex, to explore the question: can investment bookkeeping really be automated? From inconsistent broker statements and FX tracking to T1135 reporting, options trading and high-volume self-directed accounts, the conversation digs into the real challenges accountants face when reconciling investment portfolios. Tune in for a candid look at what automation - and even outsourcing - might realistically look like within a CPA practice. Learn more about Artiffex here: https://artiffex.com/ [https://artiffex.com/]

Why Life Insurance Deserves More Attention in CPA Practices

In our AJAG PD Pod season 3 opener, Ivan and Jonathan are joined by Hemal Bulsara, Head of Tax, Retirement and Estate Planning at Manulife, to unpack a commonly misunderstood area that CPAs encounter in client files: life insurance. From corporate-owned policies and Capital Dividend Account (CDA) planning to ownership structures, permanent vs. term insurance, leveraged strategies and post-mortem tax considerations, this conversation highlights where CPAs can run into risk and where meaningful planning opportunities exist. Hemal shares practical insights to help CPAs ask better questions, spot red flags earlier and feel more confident navigating insurance discussions - especially when strategies are presented by third parties. A timely, practical discussion for CPAs looking to better support clients as life insurance continues to play a growing role in tax and estate planning. Resource link: https://advisor.manulife.ca/advisors/insurance/tax-retirement-and-estate-planning/search-by-topic.html [https://advisor.manulife.ca/advisors/insurance/tax-retirement-and-estate-planning/search-by-topic.html]