Journal of Accountancy Podcasts

Carey Miller, CPA/CFF, is a co-author of this quarter’s FVS Eye on Fraud report, focused on the role of organizational culture in reducing fraud risk. Miller, a partner at the firm J.S. Held, joined the Journal of Accountancy podcast to discuss details in the report and share stories from her experience as a forensic accountant. The discussion delves into particulars of the quarterly report, including how strong culture can serve to minimize fraud risk, why middle managers are important in such culture, and indicators that a company’s culture is more likely to allow fraud. The first-quarter FVS Eye on Fraud report, focused on financial tracing, was detailed in a March podcast episode. Resources FVS Section home page CFF credential information page Eye on Fraud report for the second quarter of 2025 What you’ll learn from this episode: ·         The multiple business aspects affected by a company’s culture. ·         Why a weak or unethical corporate culture might permit employees to commit fraud. ·

Growing up, Durran Dunn, CPA, had drive and discipline, but he didn’t have any aspiration of using those qualities to become a CPA. He didn’t even know what a CPA was. Dunn, now a partner in Bennett Thrasher's Risk Advisory Services practice, based in greater Atlanta, overcame “whiplash” in the form of two moves – from Jamaica to New York, from New York to Mississippi – and now mentors students on the merits of the profession. In addition to sharing strategies for success, Dunn spoke about the high-profile-yet-anonymous role he had at a Major League Baseball stadium. He was a social media and YouTube sensation, even though his identity was hidden by a full bodysuit. What you’ll learn from this episode: Dunn’s introduction to the accounting profession. The cultural whiplash he experienced, twice, upon leaving his native Jamaica. The running role Dunn performed for about seven years at a Major League Baseball stadium. Dunn’s path from not knowing what a CPA was to becoming a firm partner. Details of Dunn’s ser

Melanie Lauridsen, the AICPA’s vice president–Tax Policy & Advocacy, joined the JofA podcast early Wednesday to provide context on the fast-moving budget bill that was approved by the Senate on Tuesday and is being discussed in the House today.   Lauridsen detailed some tax-related priorities of the AICPA and state societies. She also explained the aspects of the Senate bill that are most likely to face opposition in the House.   On a topic separate from the budget bill, Lauridsen summarized the key points of the national taxpayer advocate’s midyear report to Congress. In a May JofA episode, Lauridsen explained why certain provisions were being prioritized by the AICPA. What you’ll learn from this episode: ·         The latest on the Senate version of the massive budget bill, H.R. 1, the One Big Beautiful Bill Act. ·         Lauridsen’s thoughts on the bill being approved by the House for the president’s signature by the July 4th holiday. ·         What tax-specific provisions from the Senate-approved ve

Instead of worrying about failure when undergoing a change initiative, why not ask, “What happens if we succeed?” That is summarized sentiment from a discussion with Al Dea, admittedly a glass-half-full guy, on the Journal of Accountancy podcast. Dea, a leadership development consultant and founder of the organization The Edge of Work, is the keynote speaker at the Aug. 12–14 Governmental Accounting and Auditing Update Conference. In this episode, Dea explores pain points for dealing with almost constant change, how the last five years have affected our ability to manage change, and more. The virtual conference has an early-bird discount of $150 for attendees who register by Saturday. What you’ll learn from this episode: ·         Why humans tend to seek a “steady state.” ·         One exercise Dea recommends for professionals worried about what change might bring. ·         Why it sometimes may be impossible to have a playbook or manual for a change initiative. ·         The concept of being “sturdy” fo

In this Journal of Accountancy branded podcast, hosted by Clint Costa, CPA, J.D., LL.M., a senior wealth strategist at Choreo, experts discuss how to help clients, especially high-net-worth ones, navigate growing and changing challenges in seeking proper insurance coverage.

Jody Grunden, CPA, stands out for more than his brightly colored Hawaiian shirts at accounting conferences and events. Grunden was one of the first firm leaders to embrace remote work, and he remains a proponent of it. His firm also was one of the first to offer outsourced CFO services. In this JofA podcast episode, Grunden reflects on his firm’s growth, explains how cultures can mesh during a merger, and predicts where the future lies for CPAs. Hint: It’s not in delivering financial statements to clients. In an earlier JofA interview, Grunden discussed not feeling fear when trying something new and explained why Monday is his favorite day of the week. What you’ll learn from this episode: ·         The evolution of outsourced CFO service offerings. ·         Why Grunden says remote work “is the way to go.” ·         How off-site retreats helped grow postmerger culture. ·         What “remaining independent” means to Grunden. ·         The future of client advisory services. ·         Why a client’s

One popular discussion topic at AICPA & CIMA ENGAGE 25 is the accounting talent pipeline. Liz Burkhalter, the AICPA’s director—CPA Pipeline, is taking part in those conversations. On this episode of the JofA podcast, Burkhalter shared encouraging news related to the pipeline and reminded CPAs of how using their “circle of influence” can help to grow the profession. Related resources: n  National Pipeline Advisory Group (NPAG) report with recommendations n  JofA article on announcement of the Pipeline Pledge n  NPAG Pipeline Pledge landing page n  This Way to CPA landing page n  Next Stop: CPA podcast home page n  AICPA Student YouTube channel What you’ll learn from this episode: ·         Two hot topics at ENGAGE related to accounting talent, according to Burkhalter. ·         The link between artificial intelligence and more attractive accounting opportunities ·         “Exciting” news related to student enrollment in accounting. ·         The reminder that established accountants can play a key role

Sentiment about the U.S. economy and CPA decision-makers’ organizations continues to decline in 2025. Second-quarter results released Thursday by the AICPA and CIMA show a rising percentage of pessimists and more concern about the affects of tariffs. To analyze the results further, the JofA podcast welcomed back Ken Witt, CPA, CGMA, associate director–Management Accounting Research & Development. In last quarter’s Economic Outlook Survey, half of respondents were optimistic about their company’s outlook for the next year. This quarter, that percentage dropped to 37% — and it’s not the only area in which there is a decline. Related resources: n  JofA article on how finance leaders are countering tariff volatility. n  The AICPA and CIMA’s tariff resource center. n  The previous quarter’s podcast discussion with Witt. What you’ll learn from this episode: ·         The declines in domestic economic sentiment and own-company optimism. ·         Where optimism about the global economy stands. ·         Chang

Jennifer Reilly, CPA, CGMA, values listening. She enjoys the collaboration with fellow finance leaders as part of the Future of Finance Leadership Advisory Group, and she has made a habit of emphasizing listening in guiding teams from around the world. Reilly, scheduled to be part of two sessions at AICPA & CIMA ENGAGE 25, explains the importance of listening, developing through broad and niche roles, and more in this Journal of Accountancy podcast episode. What you’ll learn from this episode: ·         The value of collaboration with finance peers. ·         How finance’s expanded role changes the way finance professionals are evaluated. ·         A summary of Reilly’s “broad” and “niche” roles. ·         Strategies for better engagement with a globally dispersed team. ·         The benefits of a wide-ranging listening tour for Reilly in her current role. ·         One pillar of corporate culture that stood out to her from a Future of Finance Summit presentation.

It’s been a dizzying few months since Melanie Lauridsen, the AICPA’s vice president–Tax Policy & Advocacy, last appeared on the Journal of Accountancy podcast. In fact, just the past week has been chock full of tax-related developments, mainly in Washington. Reflecting the news, this episode is publishing the same day it was recorded. In the Wednesday morning conversation, Lauridsen details the AICPA perspective on several aspects of the budget bill that could be voted on soon by the full House of Representatives. She goes into detail about the passthrough entity tax/state and local tax deduction, also known as the PTET SALT deduction, and why the AICPA is urging that deduction be preserved. What you’ll learn from this episode: ·         The status of the House budget bill. ·         An explanation of the PTET SALT deduction — what it stands for, why it’s complex, and why it’s the AICPA’s “No. 1 priority.” ·         Some of the “wins” in Lauridsen’s mind related to Sec. 529 accounts and the Form

This week’s episode is a mix of CPA-centric news and a Q&A with a leader in the profession. First is a summary of the House Ways and Means Committee’s tax bill, the AICPA’s reaction to some of its provisions, and an update on paths to CPA licensure. Danielle Supkis Cheek, CPA, is the guest on the main segment, discussing how accountants can avoid head-spinning dizziness when it comes to artificial intelligence (AI) — and why the profession is well suited for technology adoption. Supkis Cheek, senior vice president–AI, Analytics and Assurance at Caseware, also discusses how organizations can use AI to scale operations. Finally, citing a set of criteria from Digital CPA speaker — and JofA podcast guest — Alex Dorr, Supkis Cheek rates the amount of drama she brings to the workplace. What you’ll learn from this episode: ·         A summary of top JofA news items from earlier this week. ·         Why conference speakers on AI topics have a hard time providing timely slides for sessions. ·         The im

Sarah Ference, CPA, an author of the JofA’s Professional Liability Spotlight column, returns to the JofA podcast to discuss recent column topics and the advice CPAs can gain from them. In the previous episode focused on Professional Liability Spotlight content, Ference detailed the January topic of risk management mantras. The articles discussed in this episode include: n  February: “Retired Partners: A Liability Risk?” n  March: “The Risk of Providing Unintentional Financial Advice” n  April: “Should I Disclose My Use of Gen AI to Clients?” In addition, Ference described the May column topic and several upcoming topics. What you’ll learn from this episode: ·       The importance of considering the client’s perspective related to disclosure of generative AI use. ·       An explanation of the concept of apparent authority. ·       Why guardrails are needed for retired partners who might still maintain an office at a firm. ·       How casual conversations with clients can expose a firm to risk. ·       A t

The latest Journal of Accountancy podcast episode is a wide-ranging conversation with two likely familiar names to listeners. April Walker, CPA, CGMA, AICPA & CIMA lead manager–Tax Practice & Ethics, and author John Garrett joined the show to discuss employee engagement in the hybrid and remote era, the importance of sharing and asking about hobbies, and why they are less likely these days to carry business cards to events such as conferences. Walker is the host of the Tax Section Odyssey podcast and the Reimaging Your Tax Practice webcast series. She has also been a host of tax-focused episodes on the JofA podcast. Garrett is a speaker, corporate consultant, and former Big Four accountant-turned-stand-up comedian. In previous episodes of the podcast, he has shared presentation tips and explained why our passions are essential to work success. What you’ll learn from this episode: ·         Reviewing the concept of “bringing your whole self to work.” ·         Why, in Garrett’s mind, employers shoul

Author, speaker, and presidential pickup game basketball player Ben Nemtin makes a return visit to the Journal of Accountancy podcast. Four years after his first appearance, he’s focused these days on the impact of purpose on longevity, well-being, and employee engagement. As the keynote speaker June 9 at AICPA & CIMA ENGAGE 25, Nemtin will share about the road trip with friends he took nearly 20 years ago that spawned a book, a reality show, and the accomplishment of so many lofty goals. In this episode, Nemtin updates listeners on the status of his bucket list and explains why taking just 15 minutes to focus on one goal can be beneficial. Note: Early-bird registration for ENGAGE ends Thursday. What you’ll learn from this episode: ·         A refresher on the concept of The Buried Life. ·         Nemtin’s focus on “energy-driven living.” ·         Addressing the notion that it’s selfish to focus on personal well-being. ·         The value of connecting to purpose – for individuals and organizations.

Very few people will be imprisoned the way Sam Goodwin was — for nine weeks in a harrowing situation six years ago. Goodwin says we can all be “held hostage” by any number of things and that our response to life’s challenges is what sets us apart.   Goodwin, an author and tech startup founder, will deliver the keynote address June 16 at the AICPA & CIMA Not-for-Profit Industry Conference in National Harbor, Md.   Learn more about Goodwin’s message and story in the latest episode of the Journal of Accountancy podcast.   What you’ll learn from this episode: ·         Goodwin’s “Winning Through Uncertainty” theme for the June keynote address. ·         The worldwide travel quest that landed him in a hostage situation in Syria. ·         Goodwin’s explanation about feeling a sense of “survivor’s responsibility.” ·         His work overseas in the technology and not-for-profit sectors. The reason Goodwin says “uncertainty is a horrible thing to waste.”

As the demands on modern CPAs change, so also does the CPA Exam. Updates in the design and focus of the CPA Exam have been in effect for about a year now, and two AICPA experts joined the Journal of Accountancy podcast to discuss the changes, address misconceptions, and offer reminders on best practices. Any preparation for the CPA Exam should include a look at the CPA Exam Blueprints, according to Joe Maslott, CPA, director–Examinations. Mike Decker, vice president–CPA Exam and Pipeline offers insights into the changes and reminds candidates that the CPA Exam should be respected but not feared. What you’ll learn from this episode: ·         Maslott’s review of why the CPA Exam was redesigned for the start of 2024. ·         Decker’s comments on misconceptions about the new exam. ·         The “relief valves” now offered for CPA candidates in exam timeframes. ·         Best practices and strategies for approaching the new sections of the exam. ·         Why pass rates are expected to rise.

Half a life ago, Michael Brody-Waite didn’t think he was going to make it to his 25th birthday. Today, he’s an author, entrepreneur, and leadership coach preparing to deliver the keynote address at the AICPA & CIMA Employee Benefit Plans Conference in May. In the address, he will share details of a leadership framework — using his experience as an addict in recovery as a backdrop. Three principles of the framework relate to authenticity, the ability to let go, and the importance of uncomfortable work. What you’ll learn from this episode: Why he says that most leaders are “addicted to doing.” The three principles of “addictive leadership.” The reasons, according to Brody-Waite, that those principles relate well to the accounting profession. Some of the excuses he made and others he blamed for his substance abuse. Why the advice “don’t be scared” should be avoided. The delegation lessons that can be taken from the principle of “surrendering the outcome.” Why uncomfortable work is different than hard work o

No matter who’s in charge, regulation, legislation, and education remain front and center when it comes to advocacy efforts in Washington, according to Mark Peterson, AICPA & CIMA executive vice president–Advocacy. Also important is understanding how to navigate a new administration’s priorities.  In this episode of the Journal of Accountancy podcast, Peterson details some of the focus areas of the White House and Congress – tax legislation, an emphasis on government efficiency, and a change in regulatory approach. What you’ll learn from this episode: ·         Peterson’s overview of AICPA advocacy in Washington. ·         Why “navigate” is an important word for Peterson. ·         What has been normal and not normal in the change of presidential administrations. ·         Peterson’s assessment of the potential path for tax legislation. ·         The “very different environment” related to regulation of public companies. ·         Advice for members in dealing with D.C. uncertainty.

Alex Dorr speaks to audiences and organizations all over about ditching the drama and getting more productivity and engagement from employees and more overall value for companies. His session at Digital CPA in Denver in December 2024 focused on many of those same principles and was tailored to modern accounting firms. On the Journal of Accountancy podcast, Dorr, vice president at Reality-Based Leadership, explained more about how readiness for change can lead to a better work reality for employees and managers alike. What you’ll learn from this episode: ·         Dorr’s reflection on whether he was a “high-drama” college basketball player. ·         Why the examination of an employee’s or team’s value should include an assessment of “readiness for what’s next.” ·         The “juicy” question Dorr answered about speaking to accounting groups. ·         The importance of validating someone’s experience in the workplace before addressing ways to make it better.

In this Journal of Accountancy-branded podcast, a senior wealth strategist and managing partner share advice on how to initiate conversations with business clients about transition and succession planning.