The Independent CPA Firm Podcast: Your Source to Thrive in Today’s Market

David Kells
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For firm leaders who believe independence is a strength—not a limitation. Join us for candid conversations with industry experts, advisors, and fellow CPAs navigating growth, profitability, and succession without giving up control. Whether you’re weighing an upward merger, facing talent shortages, or simply want to run a smarter, more sustainable practice, this show delivers the strategies, tools, and mindsets you need to stay competitive—on your terms.

Episodes

  1. Ep 12: Client-First Growth: Building and Scaling a Multi-Office CPA Firm with Bobby Greco

    2D AGO

    Ep 12: Client-First Growth: Building and Scaling a Multi-Office CPA Firm with Bobby Greco

    How do you grow a CPA firm without losing the personal relationships that built it in the first place? In this episode of The Independent CPA Firm Podcast, Dave Kells sits down with Bobby Greco, Co-CEO of CSI Group, to discuss how their firm has expanded to more than 20 locations while staying focused on client service, culture, and strategic acquisitions. In this episode, you will be able to: • Understand why focusing on middle-class clients can be a powerful growth strategy • Learn how referrals and client satisfaction fuel sustainable firm expansion • Discover the playbook for acquiring and integrating smaller CPA practices • See why culture and relationships matter more than numbers in M&A deals • Explore how firms can scale while still being the “first call” for their clients Listen to the full episode of The Independent CPA Firm Podcast to hear how client-first thinking can drive long-term growth and scalability. #IndependentCPAFirm #CPAFirmGrowth #AccountingLeadership #CPAStrategy #FirmScaling

    23 min
  2. Ep 11: Bots, Brains, and Balance Sheets: Why CPA Firms Can’t Ignore the AI Revolution with Karan Gupta

    JAN 8

    Ep 11: Bots, Brains, and Balance Sheets: Why CPA Firms Can’t Ignore the AI Revolution with Karan Gupta

    Are you future-proofing your firm—or falling behind the curve? AI and outsourcing aren’t just buzzwords—they’re survival tools. In this episode of The Independent CPA Firm Podcast, host Dave Kells sits down with the Chief Vision Architect of SPNX Consulting, Karan Gupta, for a game-changing look at what it takes to scale in 2026 and beyond. In this episode, you will be able to: Understand how offshore 4.0 and AI can reduce reliance on headcount Discover the truth behind AI “magic” and how real firms are implementing it today Learn how to structure an AI-native outsourcing center from day one Identify process mistakes firms make when outsourcing and how to fix them Hear why small and midsize firms must evolve—or risk becoming obsolete Listen now to hear how the smartest firms are building global capacity with less, not more! #IndependentCPAFirm #AccountingInnovation #OutsourcingStrategy #AIPoweredFirms #FutureOfAccounting

    22 min
  3. Ep 10: Scaling a CPA Firm: Talent, Culture, and Growth Without Outside Capital with Joel Cooperman

    12/23/2025

    Ep 10: Scaling a CPA Firm: Talent, Culture, and Growth Without Outside Capital with Joel Cooperman

    Can you really scale your CPA firm—without giving up control? In this episode of The Independent CPA Firm Podcast, host Dave Kells is joined by Joel Cooperman, CEO of Citrin Cooperman, for a powerful conversation on how firms can build for long-term success. From reinvesting in talent to finding the right partners (not just deals), Joel shares the mindset, strategies, and hard-won lessons from scaling one of the most respected firms in the industry. In this episode, you will be able to: • Learn why reinvesting in your firm—not extracting profits—is key to growth • Understand the difference between finders, minders, and grinders—and why it matters • Discover how organic growth extends far beyond new client acquisition • Explore how firm culture, coaching, and personalization drive retention and results • Hear a behind-the-scenes look at how 65+ successful M&A deals were executed Listen now and walk away with practical strategies for building a stronger, smarter CPA firm! #IndependentCPAFirm #FirmLeadership #AccountingGrowth #SuccessionPlanning #TheIndependentCPAFirmPodcast

    26 min
  4. Ep 9: The ESOP Advantage: Driving Retention, Culture, and Long-Term Value with Michele Hammann

    12/04/2025

    Ep 9: The ESOP Advantage: Driving Retention, Culture, and Long-Term Value with Michele Hammann

    Tired of outdated succession models? In this episode of The Independent CPA Firm Podcast, host Dave Kells sits down with Michelle Hammond, Chief Strategy Officer at SSC CPAs and Advisors, to explore how their ESOP structure, offshoring strategy, and people-first culture fuel sustainable growth—without giving up control.  In this episode, you will be able to: • Learn how ESOPs can support succession planning and partner transitions • Discover how employee ownership drives retention, culture, and leadership • Explore how offshoring can relieve pressure on your domestic team • Understand how SSC builds consistency with firm-wide service models • Hear how consulting and advisory work powers long-term organic growth Listen now and find out how to lead your firm forward—on your own terms! #IndependentCPAFirm #ESOP #SuccessionPlanning #Offshoring #TheIndependentCPAFirmPodcast

    19 min
  5. Ep 8: Succession, Culture, and Staying Ahead with Steve McDonald

    11/06/2025

    Ep 8: Succession, Culture, and Staying Ahead with Steve McDonald

    What does it really take to grow—and stay strong—in today’s accounting landscape? In this episode, host Dave Kells talks with Steve McDonald, Managing Partner at ABDO, about building a thriving firm without losing sight of culture, people, and long-term strategy. From navigating growth and technology to leadership development and succession planning, Steve shares how ABDO continues to evolve while staying true to its values. In this episode, you will be able to: • Learn how to balance firm growth with culture and accountability • Understand why leadership development and succession start on day one • Explore how to leverage AI and innovation without losing the human element • Discover the KPIs and metrics that truly drive firm performance • Hear how hybrid work and intentional communication strengthen culture Listen now to hear how one firm built lasting success through strategy, culture, and continuous improvement! #CPAstrategy #FirmGrowth #LeadershipDevelopment #AccountingInnovation #TheIndependentCPAFirmPodcast

    23 min
  6. Ep 7 - More Value, Less Burnout: Wealth Services Made Simple with Dennis Covington

    10/22/2025

    Ep 7 - More Value, Less Burnout: Wealth Services Made Simple with Dennis Covington

    Thinking About Wealth Management? Start Here. In this episode of The Independent CPA Firm Podcast, host Dave Kells sits down with Dennis Covington, Managing Partner at Savant Wealth Management, to explore how CPA firms can expand their services—and deepen client relationships—by integrating wealth management through a TAMP model. From time leverage to tech integration and compliance, this conversation breaks down what it really takes to get started. In this episode, you will be able to: • Understand what a TAMP is and how it supports firm efficiency • Learn how CPAs can offer holistic advice without sacrificing independence • Explore the tools, costs, and steps to start an RIA or integrate wealth services • Discover how white-labeled solutions help you stay front and center with clients • Recognize why CPAs are uniquely positioned as long-term financial advisors Listen now and uncover how your firm can do more—for your best clients—without burning out your team. #CPAstrategy #WealthManagement #TAMP #AccountingGrowth #TheIndependentCPAFirmPodcast

    20 min
  7. Ep 6 - Learning and Development Strategy: Culture, Coaching, and the Secret to Long-Term Talent

    10/01/2025

    Ep 6 - Learning and Development Strategy: Culture, Coaching, and the Secret to Long-Term Talent

    Does your firm treat learning as a checkbox—or a growth strategy? In this episode, host Dave Kells is joined by learning and development experts Mary Ardath and Jason McKeever for a deep-dive into how accounting firms can use L&D to boost retention, improve performance, and build future leaders. From onboarding and technical upskilling to soft skills and succession planning, this episode explores what it takes to create a learning culture that drives firm growth. In this episode, you will be able to: Understand the link between L&D investment and staff retention Explore how learning culture impacts recruiting, engagement, and firm reputation Learn how to connect training strategy to growth, industry expansion, and succession Discover different L&D models for small firms, from in-house to outsourced Get actionable ideas to improve soft skills, mentorship, and client relationship development Listen now! #LearningAndDevelopment #CPAstrategy #StaffRetention #FirmGrowth #TheIndependentCPAFirmPodcast

    19 min
  8. Ep 5 - Smarter Audits, Stronger Advisory: Inside the AI Maturity Framework with Jin Chang

    09/09/2025

    Ep 5 - Smarter Audits, Stronger Advisory: Inside the AI Maturity Framework with Jin Chang

    In this episode of the Independent CPA Firm Podcast, host David Kells sits down with Jin Chang, CEO and Co-Founder of Fieldguide, to explore how AI is reshaping the role of CPAs and transforming both audit and advisory practices. This episode gives you an inside look at Fieldguide’s newly released AI Maturity Framework (AMF)—a first-of-its-kind industry guide designed to help firms benchmark where they are today and chart a clear path toward AI adoption. In this episode, you will be able to: • Understand how AI is eliminating manual audit work and unlocking time for higher-value services • Learn how firms are leveraging AI and offshoring to improve efficiency and collaboration • Hear client stories of firms boosting revenue and margins without increasing staff • Explore how the CPA role is evolving in an AI-enabled advisory future • Gain an introduction to the AI Maturity Framework (AMF) and how it helps firms accelerate adoption  Listen now and access the AMF to start applying these insights inside your own firm! #CPA #AccountingFirms #ArtificialIntelligence #AdvisoryServices #AuditInnovation

    20 min
  9. Ep 4 - What Every CPA Firm Should Know Before Offshoring with Laurence Whittam

    08/27/2025

    Ep 4 - What Every CPA Firm Should Know Before Offshoring with Laurence Whittam

    Thinking about offshoring but don’t know where to start? In this episode, host Dave Kells speaks with Laurence Whittam of Impact Global Solutions about how offshoring can help firms create capacity, reduce burnout, reinvest in talent, and scale smart. From pilot programs to full-scale BOT (Build-Operate-Transfer) models, they break down how firms of all sizes can approach offshoring strategically—and avoid common pitfalls. In this episode, you will be able to: Understand how offshoring supports firm scalability, margin improvement, and staff retention Explore different offshoring models and how to choose the right fit for your firm Learn how to overcome roadblocks like quality concerns, communication gaps, and client hesitation Discover why structure, SOPs, and clear feedback loops are critical to success Hear how smaller firms can test offshoring with lower risk and long-term strategic gains Listen now and learn how to add capacity, reduce burnout, and grow—without giving up control. #CPAstrategy #Offshoring #AccountingOperations #FirmGrowth #IndependentCPAFirm #TheIndependentCPAFirmPodcast

    23 min
  10. Ep 3 - Inside the Independent Firm Playbook with Tavi Meketon

    08/13/2025

    Ep 3 - Inside the Independent Firm Playbook with Tavi Meketon

    Are you undercharging clients—or undervaluing your own expertise? In this episode, host Dave Kells sits down with Tavi Meketon, Managing Director at Whitman Transition Advisors and member of the WTA Profit Team, to explore how independent CPA firms can grow smarter and more profitably—without sacrificing client relationships or control. In this episode, you will be able to: Learn how to raise prices without losing valuable clients Understand how offshoring can increase margins and improve delivery Discover how to use metrics like realization to manage profitability Explore ways to define and refine your ideal client profile Recognize how partners can shift from doers to firm leaders Listen now and start building a more profitable, scalable firm—without giving up control! #IndependentCPAFirm #CPAstrategy #PricingStrategy #Offshoring #ClientRetention #TheIndependentCPAFirmPodcast

    16 min
  11. Ep 2 - Why Smart Firms Treat Tech as a Growth Strategy—Not Just Security

    07/30/2025

    Ep 2 - Why Smart Firms Treat Tech as a Growth Strategy—Not Just Security

    Struggling to keep up with tech—but don’t have a massive IT budget? In this episode, Dave Kells is joined by Michael Roglen, Director of Sales at SysCloud, for a deep dive into how independent CPA firms can use technology strategically—not just for security, but to drive growth, efficiency, and smarter decision-making. From cloud-based backups to data insights and discovery, this episode covers what firms need to know to stay competitive in a fast-moving tech landscape. In this episode, you will be able to: Understand how cloud-based tools can support firm security and flexibility Learn how to turn backup data into insights for advisory opportunities Explore what smaller firms can do today without large IT budgets Recognize the power of discovery in aligning tech with firm strategy Hear how smart tech partnerships can support growth without giving up control Listen now and find out how your firm can do more—with what you already have! #IndependentCPAFirm #CPAstrategy #AccountingTechnology #FirmGrowth #DataSecurity #TheIndependentCPAFirmPodcast

    16 min

  12. 07/16/2025

    Ep 1 - No PE, No Problem: How Firms Stay Competitive on Their Own with Tavi Meketon

    We’re excited to kick off our very first episode of The Independent CPA Firm Podcast: Your Source to Thrive in Today’s Market! Host Dave Kells is joined by Tavi Meketon from the Profit Team at Whitman Transition Advisors to explore how firms can grow, evolve, and stay fiercely independent—without needing private equity. From offshoring and tech to partner alignment and talent strategy, this episode is packed with insights for every firm leader. In this episode, you will be able to: Discover proven strategies for staying competitive without private equityLearn how to overcome resistance to outsourcing and offshoringExplore how integrated technology supports smarter decision-makingHear tips on maintaining culture and quality with offshore teamsUnderstand what attracts and retains top talent at independent firmsListen now and get inspired to lead your firm forward—on your terms! #IndependentCPAFirm #AccountingLeadership #FirmGrowth #CPAstrategy #AccountingPodcast

    18 min
  • 12 Episodes

About

For firm leaders who believe independence is a strength—not a limitation. Join us for candid conversations with industry experts, advisors, and fellow CPAs navigating growth, profitability, and succession without giving up control. Whether you’re weighing an upward merger, facing talent shortages, or simply want to run a smarter, more sustainable practice, this show delivers the strategies, tools, and mindsets you need to stay competitive—on your terms.

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