The Bookkeepers' Podcast

The 6 Figure Bookkeeper

Our bookkeepers earn more. Get your FREE 6 Figure Practice Planner at 6figurebookkeeper.com

  1. 6 DAYS AGO

    The Bookkeeper Mistake That Makes Advisory Impossible

    So you keep hearing that you need to offer an advisory service, but what do you need to do before you can even offer that service? In this episode, we dive into the fundamentals of setting up an advisory service with Kieran Lotze from SYFT. Kieran shares insights on how to integrate analytics into your workflow and the importance of data health. With the right tools, you can transform your bookkeeping practice and provide immense value to your clients. Ps. If this podcast got you thinking, we'd love for you to join our upcoming three-part workshop series with Syft. It starts on 11th May, with replays available if you can't join live. Register here ➡️ https://resources.6figurebookkeeper.com/syft Activate Syft ➡️ https://www.xero.com/uk/syft-from-xero/ About Syft ➡️ https://www.syftanalytics.com/ ------- About us We're Jo and Zoe and we help bookkeepers find clients, make more money and build profitable businesses they love. Find out about working with us in The Bookkeepers' Collective, at: 6figurebookkeeper.com/collective ----------------------------------------------- About our Sponsor This episode of The Bookkeepers' Podcast is sponsored by Xero. Get 90% off your first 6 months by visiting: https://xero5440.partnerlinks.io/6figurebookkeeper ----------------------------------------------- Promotion This video contains paid promotion. ----------------------------------------------- Disclaimer The information contained in The Bookkeepers' Podcast is provided for information purposes only. The contents of The Bookkeepers' Podcast is not intended to amount to advice and you should not rely on any of the contents of the Bookkeepers' Podcast. Professional advice should be obtained before taking or refraining from taking any action as a result of the contents of the Bookkeepers' Podcast. The 6 Figure Bookkeeper Ltd disclaims all liability and responsibility arising from any reliance placed on any of the contents of the Bookkeepers' Podcast. ------- 00:00:00 - Introduction 00:00:19 - Guest Introduction 00:00:46 - Kieran's Role at SYFT 00:01:39 - Kieran's Background 00:02:41 - What is SIFT? 00:05:00 - Kieran's Connection to SYFT 00:06:09 - Data Health and Advisory 00:07:10 - The Importance of Data Health 00:11:53 - The Impact of AI and Automation on Data Health 00:15:14 - Empowerment through Knowledge 00:16:42 - The Role of Xero in Data Health 00:16:51 - Efficiency through Automation 00:17:17 - The Importance of Receipt Management 00:18:40 - SIFT Review: Anomaly and Data Health Detection Tool 00:19:32 - The Value of Real-Time Data 00:20:04 - Understanding the Client's Perspective 00:20:58 - The Importance of Storytelling in Client Communication 00:21:59 - The Journey of a Receipt 00:22:11 - The Impact of Rising Prices 00:22:37 - The Role of Subscriptions in Business Workflow 00:25:34 - The End-to-End Process from a Xero Point of View 00:26:51 - The Difference between Xero Analytics and SYFT Analytics 00:28:15 - The Role of Advisory Services 00:30:11 - Bridging the Gap between Professional and Coaching Services 00:31:27 - The Role of Cash Flow in Business 00:31:51 - Choosing the Right Tools for Your Practice 00:33:41 - The Difference between Xero and SYFT Analytics 00:35:00 - The Value of SIFT for Your Practice 00:37:21 - The Importance of Testing and Choosing the Right Tools 00:40:03 - Upcoming SIFT Series Announcement 00:41:07 - The Success Story of an Accountant Using SYFT 00:42:22 - Connecting with Kieran and SYFT #bookkeeper

    43 min
  2. 23 APR

    The Bookkeeper Habit That Quietly Increases Your Prices

    We are very lucky to have an amazing community of bookkeepers working with us in the Bookkeepers Collective. Today, we chat with Matthew Meston, a passionate bookkeeper who shares his journey of starting his own practice. Matthew discusses the challenges of pricing and the importance of providing a personal approach to clients. He believes that clear communication and accountability are key to helping businesses grow. With nearly 15 years of experience, Matthew has developed a unique pricing structure that reflects the value he provides. He’s excited about the future and is ready to expand his team to offer even better services. Go connect with Matthew! www.mplusaccountancy.com ----------------------------------------------- About us We're Jo and Zoe and we help bookkeepers find clients, make more money and build profitable businesses they love. Find out about working with us in The Bookkeepers' Collective, at: 6figurebookkeeper.com/collective ----------------------------------------------- About our Sponsor This episode of The Bookkeepers' Podcast is sponsored by Xero. Get 90% off your first 6 months by visiting: https://xero5440.partnerlinks.io/6figurebookkeeper ----------------------------------------------- Promotion This video contains paid promotion. ----------------------------------------------- Disclaimer The information contained in The Bookkeepers' Podcast is provided for information purposes only. The contents of The Bookkeepers' Podcast is not intended to amount to advice and you should not rely on any of the contents of the Bookkeepers' Podcast. Professional advice should be obtained before taking or refraining from taking any action as a result of the contents of the Bookkeepers' Podcast. The 6 Figure Bookkeeper Ltd disclaims all liability and responsibility arising from any reliance placed on any of the contents of the Bookkeepers' Podcast. Chapters: 00:00:00 - Introduction and Welcome 00:01:02 - Matthew's Journey into Bookkeeping 00:03:34 - Decision to Start His Own Firm 00:04:22 - Matthew's Approach to Client Service 00:05:49 - Joining the Bookkeepers Collective 00:07:36 - Matthew's Pricing Structure 00:09:19 - Expressing Value to Clients 00:11:19 - Accountability in Business 00:12:28 - Matthew's Future Plans 00:13:26 - Building a Team 00:14:20 - Client Acquisition and Experience 00:15:15 - Client Referrals and Marketing Strategy 00:17:21 - Hiring and Training New Team Members 00:23:16 - Client Communication Preferences 00:23:35 - Software Choices for Clients 00:24:32 - Respecting Client's Business Decisions 00:25:32 - Maintaining Quality of Service 00:26:06 - Future Goals and Plans 00:27:55 - Conclusion and Contact Information #bookkeeper

    28 min
  3. 17 APR

    Why Qualified Bookkeepers Still Lack Confidence

    In this episode of The Bookkeepers Podcast, sponsored by Xero, we discuss the challenges of building a business while grappling with impostor syndrome as a bookkeeper. It's a common feeling, especially when starting a business, and we share our own experiences with it. We also offer business tips and insights into maintaining your mental health throughout your entrepreneurship journey. Check out HeyMonika! ➡️ https://www.heymonika.com/ ----------------------------------------------- About us We're Jo and Zoe and we help bookkeepers find clients, make more money and build profitable businesses they love. Find out about working with us in The Bookkeepers' Collective, at: 6figurebookkeeper.com/collective ----------------------------------------------- About our Sponsor This episode of The Bookkeepers' Podcast is sponsored by Xero. Get 90% off your first 6 months by visiting: https://xero5440.partnerlinks.io/6figurebookkeeper ----------------------------------------------- Promotion This video contains paid promotion. ----------------------------------------------- Disclaimer The information contained in The Bookkeepers' Podcast is provided for information purposes only. The contents of The Bookkeepers' Podcast is not intended to amount to advice and you should not rely on any of the contents of the Bookkeepers' Podcast. Professional advice should be obtained before taking or refraining from taking any action as a result of the contents of the Bookkeepers' Podcast. The 6 Figure Bookkeeper Ltd disclaims all liability and responsibility arising from any reliance placed on any of the contents of the Bookkeepers' Podcast. ----------------------------------------------- Chapters: 00:00:00 - Why Qualified Bookkeepers STILL Lack Confidence 00:00:18 - Imposter Syndrome in Business 00:01:02 - Introduction to HeyMonica 00:01:23 - The Need for Practical Experience 00:06:04 - The Birth of HeyMonica 00:10:54 - Building the Minimum Viable Product 00:13:45 - Launch and Reception of HeyMonica 00:15:19 - Learning Software Development and Communication 00:16:19 - The Struggle of Balancing Side Hustle and Main Business 00:17:14 - Transition from Side Hustle to Main Focus 00:19:29 - Bridging the Gap Between Textbook Learning and Real Life Application 00:20:26 - Introduction to Scenario Mode and Challenge Mode 00:22:42 - The Multiple Uses of HeyMonica 00:23:07 - Overcoming Imposter Syndrome #bookkeepers

    24 min
  4. 17 APR

    Should You Become a Bookkeeper in 2026

    In this episode of The Bookkeepers Podcast, sponsored by Xero, we discuss whether starting a new bookkeeper practice is a sound decision given the current industry trends. We also explore the impact of artificial intelligence on the profession and share our thoughts on the future of work in bookkeeping. This conversation is essential for anyone considering a small business in this evolving field. ----------------------------------------------- About us We're Jo and Zoe and we help bookkeepers find clients, make more money and build profitable businesses they love. Find out about working with us in The Bookkeepers' Collective, at: 6figurebookkeeper.com/collective ----------------------------------------------- About our Sponsor This episode of The Bookkeepers' Podcast is sponsored by Xero. Get 90% off your first 6 months by visiting: https://xero5440.partnerlinks.io/6figurebookkeeper ----------------------------------------------- Promotion This video contains paid promotion. ----------------------------------------------- Disclaimer The information contained in The Bookkeepers' Podcast is provided for information purposes only. The contents of The Bookkeepers' Podcast is not intended to amount to advice and you should not rely on any of the contents of the Bookkeepers' Podcast. Professional advice should be obtained before taking or refraining from taking any action as a result of the contents of the Bookkeepers' Podcast. The 6 Figure Bookkeeper Ltd disclaims all liability and responsibility arising from any reliance placed on any of the contents of the Bookkeepers' Podcast. Chapters: 00:00:00 - Introduction 00:00:15 - Challenges and Opportunities in Starting a Bookkeeping Practice 00:00:22 - The Impact of AI on the Industry 00:00:47 - The Importance of Mindset and Curiosity 00:01:30 - The Changing Nature of the Industry 00:02:50 - The Importance of Continuous Learning 00:03:39 - The Future of Bookkeeping: Helping Clients Make Money 00:03:50 - Redefining the Role of Bookkeepers 00:04:19 - The Importance of Value in Pricing 00:06:32 - Challenges in Adapting to New Pricing Models 00:11:28 - The Need for a Growth Mindset 00:11:47 - Building a Bookkeeping Business Today 00:15:05 - The Role of AI in Enhancing Client Interaction 00:15:35 - The Importance of Understanding Client Needs 00:16:20 - The Potential of AI in Streamlining Workflow 00:17:31 - The Value of a Unique Business Model 00:19:09 - The Importance of Regulatory Compliance in Starting a Practice 00:19:27 - The Bookkeepers Collective and its Benefits 00:21:56 - The Impact of AI on Business Strategy 00:24:48 - The Evolution of Information Sharing and the Role of AI 00:28:07 - The Excitement of Building a Practice with AI #bookkeeper

    31 min
  5. 17 APR

    From Zero to Bookkeeper of the Year

    We sit down with award-winning bookkeeper Trudie Howman to break down her journey from accidental freelancer to Bookkeeper of the Year. If you’re a bookkeeper trying to grow your business, this episode is packed with real-world insight. Trudie shares how she went from manually entering data and just covering the bills… to building a profitable, systemised bookkeeper business with a team, strong client base, and long-term financial security. We dive into: • How this bookkeeper built a 25+ client business • The power of automation (Xero, Hubdoc, and more) • Why every bookkeeper needs to reprice their services • How niching into construction helped her grow organically • The reality of referrals and visibility as a modern bookkeeper • How one bookkeeper can massively impact a client’s finances This is one you don’t want to miss. Connect with Trudie! ➡️ https://www.linkedin.com/in/trudie-howman/ ----------------------------------------------- About us We're Jo and Zoe and we help bookkeepers find clients, make more money and build profitable businesses they love. Find out about working with us in The Bookkeepers' Collective, at: 6figurebookkeeper.com/collective ----------------------------------------------- About our Sponsor This episode of The Bookkeepers' Podcast is sponsored by Xero. Get 90% off your first 6 months by visiting: https://xero5440.partnerlinks.io/6figurebookkeeper ----------------------------------------------- Promotion This video contains paid promotion. ----------------------------------------------- Disclaimer The information contained in The Bookkeepers' Podcast is provided for information purposes only. The contents of The Bookkeepers' Podcast is not intended to amount to advice and you should not rely on any of the contents of the Bookkeepers' Podcast. Professional advice should be obtained before taking or refraining from taking any action as a result of the contents of the Bookkeepers' Podcast. The 6 Figure Bookkeeper Ltd disclaims all liability and responsibility arising from any reliance placed on any of the contents of the Bookkeepers' Podcast. Chapters: 00:00:00 - From Zero to Bookkeeper of the Year 00:00:27 - Trudy's Business Journey 00:00:58 - Trudy's Background and Start in Finance 00:01:56 - Transition to Self-Employment 00:02:52 - Building a Bookkeeping Practice 00:03:18 - Initial Business Goals 00:04:20 - Changes in Business Goals 00:04:40 - Impact of the Collective 00:04:55 - Growth in Confidence 00:08:03 - Financial Stability and Freedom 00:08:33 - Turning Point in Business 00:08:49 - Importance of Automation 00:09:31 - Business Visibility and Marketing 00:09:54 - Building a Niche 00:10:29 - Becoming Visible 00:11:13 - Return on Investment 00:12:27 - Providing Value to Clients 00:14:12 - Software and Workflow 00:14:31 - Client's Resistance to Software 00:15:21 - Generating Leads and Referrals 00:15:55 - Leveraging LinkedIn for Business Growth 00:16:21 - The Importance of Clear Business Niche 00:20:30 - Building Local Business Presence 00:22:57 - Achieving Personal and Family Goals 00:25:43 - Balancing Work and Family Life 00:26:31 - Impact on Clients and Recognition 00:28:29 - The Value of Bookkeeping Services 00:30:23 - Advising Clients on Financial Management 00:30:59 - The Power of Networking and Referrals 00:31:41 - Building Trust Through Honesty 00:31:59 - Building a Supportive Community 00:32:19 - Closing Remarks and Contact Information #bookkeeper

    33 min
  6. 2 APR

    How a Bookkeeper Should Actually use AI

    In this episode of the Bookkeepers Podcast, we sit down with Lee Russell to break down how AI is actually changing the industry and what it means for every bookkeeper moving forward.  Most people are approaching AI the wrong way. They’re layering it on top of old systems instead of rethinking how value is delivered. That’s where a modern bookkeeper has a huge opportunity to stand out. We talk about what it really means to become “AI native,” how to redesign your service from the ground up, and why simply adding tools won’t give you an edge. If you’re a bookkeeper trying to future-proof your business, this conversation will challenge how you think about your role, your services, and the value you deliver. You’ll also see how a bookkeeper can move beyond compliance work and become a true advisor by combining technology with a more human, high-touch approach. This is the shift every bookkeeper needs to understand. Connect with Lee here / lee-russel ----- Chapters: 00:00 Introduction to AI in bookkeeping 00:43 What Lee Russell actually does 01:38 Why service businesses struggle to scale 03:49 Why every business must become AI native 04:33 Why “adding AI” doesn’t work 05:17 The problem with traditional systems 06:07 Why starting from scratch matters 08:48 Designing the ideal bookkeeping business 10:14 Why expectations are changing fast 12:12 The real opportunity for smaller firms 13:23 High tech vs high touch service 14:19 Why efficiency isn’t enough anymore 15:17 How better conversations grow your business 20:59 What business owners actually need from a bookkeeper 21:59 The danger of growing too fast 22:46 The numbers that matter at scale 23:43 Why clients don’t know what they need 25:05 How to guide clients through growth 26:40 The evolving role of a bookkeeper 27:13 AI tools, safety, and real use cases #bookkeeper ----------------------------------------------- About us We're Jo and Zoe and we help bookkeepers find clients, make more money and build profitable businesses they love. Find out about working with us in The Bookkeepers' Collective, at: 6figurebookkeeper.com/collective ----------------------------------------------- About our Sponsor This episode of The Bookkeepers' Podcast is sponsored by Xero. Get 90% off your first 6 months by visiting: https://xero5440.partnerlinks.io/6fig... ----------------------------------------------- Promotion This video contains paid promotion. ----------------------------------------------- Disclaimer The information contained in The Bookkeepers' Podcast is provided for information purposes only. The contents of The Bookkeepers' Podcast is not intended to amount to advice and you should not rely on any of the contents of the Bookkeepers' Podcast. Professional advice should be obtained before taking or refraining from taking any action as a result of the contents of the Bookkeepers' Podcast. The 6 Figure Bookkeeper Ltd disclaims all liability and responsibility arising from any reliance placed on any of the contents of the Bookkeepers' Podcast.

    39 min
  7. 26 MAR

    The North Star Every Bookkeeper is Missing - with Will Polston

    Jo and I are really fortunate to have an amazing little black book of contacts, and today we’re diving deep into a conversation with Will Polston about confidence and business growth. Will shares his journey from believing money equals happiness to discovering the true drivers of success. He emphasises the importance of collaboration over competition and how having a clear vision, or 'North Star', can guide entrepreneurs towards their goals. Learn more about Will here https://www.willpolston.com/ Connect with Will on LinkedIn https://www.linkedin.com/in/willpolston/ Will's Mushroom Supplements https://mytwentytwo.co.uk/ ----------------------------------------------- About us We're Jo and Zoe and we help bookkeepers find clients, make more money and build profitable businesses they love. Find out about working with us in The Bookkeepers' Collective, at: 6figurebookkeeper.com/collective ----------------------------------------------- About our Sponsor This episode of The Bookkeepers' Podcast is sponsored by Xero. Get 90% off your first 6 months by visiting: https://xero5440.partnerlinks.io/6figurebookkeeper ----------------------------------------------- Promotion This video contains paid promotion. ----------------------------------------------- Disclaimer The information contained in The Bookkeepers' Podcast is provided for information purposes only. The contents of The Bookkeepers' Podcast is not intended to amount to advice and you should not rely on any of the contents of the Bookkeepers' Podcast. Professional advice should be obtained before taking or refraining from taking any action as a result of the contents of the Bookkeepers' Podcast. The 6 Figure Bookkeeper Ltd disclaims all liability and responsibility arising from any reliance placed on any of the contents of the Bookkeepers' Podcast. Chapters: 00:00:00 - Introduction 00:00:10 - Guest Introduction: Will Polston 00:01:30 - Will Polston's Career Journey 00:02:48 - Will's Multiple Business Ventures 00:07:36 - The Importance of Having a Business Plan 00:09:50 - Will's Entrepreneurial Mindset 00:15:04 - Will's Personal Development Journey 00:15:28 - The Importance of Entrepreneurial Education 00:16:38 - Taking Responsibility for Your Life 00:17:59 - Will's Introduction to the Bookkeepers Collective 00:18:27 - Will's Life-Changing Experience with Tony Robbins 00:22:51 - The Start of Will's Coaching Business 00:23:36 - The Importance of Having a Bookkeeper 00:24:04 - Understanding Key Business Metrics 00:27:06 - The Role of Bookkeepers in Business Growth 00:29:24 - Will's Approach to Business Metrics 00:30:08 - Understanding Leading Metrics 00:31:19 - The Importance of Comparing to Targets 00:31:48 - The Advantage of Weekly Reporting 00:32:17 - The Role of Monthly Management Accounts 00:33:38 - The Concept of North Star Thinking 00:34:06 - The Seven Areas of Life 00:35:35 - The Identity Shift in Bookkeeping 00:36:44 - Connecting with Will Polston #bookkeeper

    37 min
  8. 26 MAR

    How Bookkeepers Build A Business Without Burning Out

    As a bookkeeper, what's the TRUE reality of balancing running a business with parenting? We share our experiences, as it may look easy from the outside, but achieving a healthy work life balance requires significant effort behind the scenes as a bookkeeper. This conversation is especially relevant for anyone in bookkeeping or other demanding fields, providing a candid look at managing both personal life and professional aspirations! ----------------------------------------------- About us We're Jo and Zoe and we help bookkeepers find clients, make more money and build profitable businesses they love. Find out about working with us in The Bookkeepers' Collective, at: 6figurebookkeeper.com/collective ----------------------------------------------- About our Sponsor This episode of The Bookkeepers' Podcast is sponsored by Xero. Get 90% off your first 6 months by visiting: https://xero5440.partnerlinks.io/6figurebookkeeper ----------------------------------------------- Promotion This video contains paid promotion. ----------------------------------------------- Disclaimer The information contained in The Bookkeepers' Podcast is provided for information purposes only. The contents of The Bookkeepers' Podcast is not intended to amount to advice and you should not rely on any of the contents of the Bookkeepers' Podcast. Professional advice should be obtained before taking or refraining from taking any action as a result of the contents of the Bookkeepers' Podcast. The 6 Figure Bookkeeper Ltd disclaims all liability and responsibility arising from any reliance placed on any of the contents of the Bookkeepers' Podcast. Chapters: 00:00:00 - Introduction and Background 00:00:10 - Balancing Business and Parenting 00:01:09 - Personal Experiences and Regrets 00:03:44 - Reflections on Past Parenting and Business Decisions 00:04:04 - Impact of Health on Business and Parenting 00:06:56 - Changes in Parenting Perspectives Over Time 00:10:06 - Self-Reflection and Personal Growth 00:11:00 - The Evolution of Parenting Roles 00:14:41 - Balancing Business and Parenting in Current Times 00:15:19 - Supporting Each Other's Parenting 00:15:50 - Balancing Work and Parenting 00:17:07 - The Importance of Community 00:18:01 - Introduction to the Bookkeepers Collective 00:18:41 - Challenges of Balancing Parenting and Work 00:20:03 - Tips for Maintaining Balance 00:21:19 - Closing Remarks #bookkeeper

    22 min

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