Building the Premier Accounting Firm

Roger Knecht
  • 5.0 (17)
  • Entrepreneurship
  • Updated Biweekly

A show dedicated to helping accounting professionals confidently and competently offer quality accounting services to get paid what they are worth. Each episode is conversational with tips and tricks to help you apply the principles of M.A.P. as they relate to starting and building a successful accounting business. Topics include Marketing, Lead Generation, Ideal Clients, Pricing, Price Strategies, Accounting Services, Value Added Services, Workflow, Practice Management, Staff Training, Client On-boarding, Client Relations & Retention, etc. This podcast will help you become an Accountrepreneur, to work ON your business with advice from the experts.

  1. 2d ago

    Build A Standout Accounting Brand w/ Mike Jones

    In today's episode of Building the Premier Accounting Firm, Roger Knecht and award winning marketing consultant Mike Jones discuss branding strategies for accounting firms. Discover why identity matters more than just a logo and how to stand out in the accounting industry. In This Episode: 00:00:00 Introduction and Why Branding Matters 00:07:12 Defining Identity and First Impressions 00:15:05 Consistency, Fonts, and Common Mistakes 00:22:00 Social Media, Video, and Audience Targeting 00:30:06 Firm Naming Strategies and Final Advice Key Takeaways: Define your firm's unique identity beyond standard visual elements. Maintain strict visual and messaging consistency across all platforms. Target a specific audience to make your marketing much more effective. Evaluate your firm's name and branding to build better differentiation. Featured Quotes: "Mike Jones: Your brand is your identity. It is who you are." "Mike Jones: Just because it's common doesn't mean it's best." Earn CPE: NASBA-approved CPE and IRS-approved CE credits are offered via Earmark by listening to this episode. ⁠ Access our QAS Self-Study Courses here: https://www.earmark.app/channels/0384dbbe-df08-4ae3-ba82-621a7a465e95 Conclusion: Thank you for joining us for another episode of Building the Premier Accounting Firm with Roger Knecht. For more information on how you can establish your own accounting firm and take control of your time and income, call 435-344-2060 or schedule an appointment to connect with Roger's team here.   Sponsors: Universal Accounting Center Helping accounting professionals confidently and competently offer quality accounting services to get paid what they are worth.   Offers: The Remarkabrand Index for Accounting Firms - https://www.remarkabrand.com/  https://www.remarkabrand.com/2026-remarkabrand-index-for-accounting-firms     Special Offers for our Podcast Listeners: CLICK HERE to take advantage of them today! Are you ready for a change, both personally and professionally?  Then accept and participate in the Accountrepreneurs Challenge.  This is a FREE opportunity to apply best practices and make this the best year yet in your career. Be sure to join us for GrowCon, the LIVE event for accounting professionals to work ON their business. This conference is one you don't want to miss. Get a FREE copy of these books all accounting professionals should use to work on their business and become profitable.  These are a must-have addition to every accountant's library to provide quality CFO & Advisory services as a Profit & Growth Expert today: "Red to BLACK in 30 days – A small business accountant's guide to QUICK turnarounds."  "in the BLACK, Nine Principles to Make Your Business Profitable."  "Your Strategic Accountant" - Understand the 3 Core Accounting Services (CAS - Client Accounting Services) you should offer as you run your business.  "Your Profit & Growth Expert" - Offer CFO & Advisory services with confidence and competence.  Take the time to understand what your clients expect from you as their accountant. Follow the Turnkey Business plan for accounting professionals.  This is the proven process to start and build the premier accounting firm in your area.  After more than 40 years we've identified the best practices of successful accountants and this is a presentation we are happy to share.     Also learn the best practices to automate and nurture your lead generation process allowing you to get the bookkeeping, accounting and tax clients you deserve.  GO HERE to see this presentation and learn what you can do today to identify and engage with your ideal clients.   Check it out and see what you can do to be in business for yourself but not by yourself with Universal Accounting Center.   It's here you can become a:   Professional Bookkeeper, PB Professional Tax Preparer, PTP Profit & Growth Expert, PGE   Next, join a group of like-minded professionals within the accounting community.  Register to attend GrowCon and Stay up-to-date on current topics and trends and see what you can do to also give back, participating in relevant conversations as they relate to offering quality accounting services and building your bookkeeping, accounting & tax business.   The Accounting & Bookkeeping Tips Facebook Group The Universal Accounting Fanpage Topical Newsletters: Universal Accounting Success The Universal Newsletter   Lastly, get your Business Score to see what you can do to work ON your business and have the Premier Accounting Firm. Join over 70,000 business owners and get your score on the 8 Factors That Drive Your Company's Value.     For Additional FREE Resources for accounting professionals, check out this collection HERE!   Be sure to join us for GrowCon, the LIVE event for accounting professionals to work ON their business. This is a conference you don't want to miss.   Remember this, Accounting Success IS Universal. Listen to our next episode and be sure to subscribe.   Also, let us know what you think of the podcast and please share any suggestions you may have.  We look forward to your input: Podcast Feedback   For more information on how you can apply these principles to start and build your accounting, bookkeeping & tax business please visit us at www.universalaccountingschool.com or call us at 8012653777

  2. Oct 7

    Why Early Adopters of AI in Accounting Are Already Falling Behind

    Welcome to another episode of Building the Premier Accounting Firm. Today, Roger Knecht explores how artificial intelligence impacts the accounting profession today. Discover practical strategies to adopt AI, protect client data, and maintain essential human skills. In This Episode: 00:00:00 AI in Accounting: Moving Past Early Adoption 00:04:41 Fight, Flight, or Freeze in the AI Era 00:08:33 Remaining the Human in the Loop 00:14:24 Four Practical Steps to Leverage AI Daily 022:17 Overcoming Catastrophism and Staying Relevant 027:36 Preserving Core Accounting Skills and Education Key Takeaways: Adopt AI tools now because early adopter phases are long gone. Protect client data by utilizing built-in security settings within platforms. Learn the vocabulary of AI to discuss technology intelligently with clients. Replace traditional search engines with AI conversation and voice features. Maintain core accounting skills to remain the essential human in the loop. Featured Quotes: "The time for early adopters, that was months ago. What we're dealing with now is, we as average users are jumping in and taking advantage of this." - Roger Knecht "We as a professional need to remain as the human in the loop." - Roger Knecht "Don't become lazy… that is the downfall of where we're going to be as a species if we do not retain our skill sets." - Roger Knecht Earn CPE: NASBA-approved CPE and IRS-approved CE credits are offered via Earmark by listening to this episode. ⁠ Access our QAS Self-Study Courses here: https://www.earmark.app/channels/0384dbbe-df08-4ae3-ba82-621a7a465e95 Thank you for joining us for another episode of Building the Premier Accounting Firm with Roger Knecht. For more information on how you can establish your own accounting firm and take control of your time and income, call 435-344-2060 or schedule an appointment to connect with Roger's team here. Sponsors: Universal Accounting Center Helping accounting professionals confidently and competently offer quality accounting services to get paid what they are worth.   Offers: Special Offers for our Podcast Listeners, CLICK HERE to take advantage of them today! Remember this: Accounting Success IS Universal. Be sure to listen to our next episode and subscribe.   Also, let us know what you think of the podcast and please share any suggestions you may have.  We look forward to your input: Podcast Feedback   For more information on how you can apply these principles to start and build your bookkeeping, accounting, & tax business, please visit us at www.universalaccountingschool.com or call us at 801-265-3777.  And know that if it's about accounting, it's Universal.

  3. Sep 30

    Fix Messy Books and Grow Advisory Engagements w/ Nancy Benet

    Thank you for joining us for another episode of Building the Premier Accounting Firm. Today, host Roger Knecht and Founder and CEO of Fix-It Accounting Nancy Benet discuss how to scale accounting firms beyond compliance work into advisory services and franchise models. Discover proven steps to overcome business fears, build strategic partnerships, and create clear financial systems. In This Episode: 00:00:00 Introduction and Overcoming Early Business Failure 00:05:25 Transitioning from Solopreneur to Business Owner 00:11:09 Adding Advisory Services and Strategic Partnerships 00:17:39 Specializing in the Franchise Business Model 00:25:03 Franchising Fixit Accounting and Family Legacy 00:35:09 The Future of Accounting and AI Key Takeaways: Niche down early to make marketing much simpler and attract the right clients. Partner with other professionals to offer fractional CFO services without needing all the skills yourself. Delegate administrative tasks first by hiring assistants to free up time for core client work. Focus on forward-thinking advisory metrics to help clients plan for future profitability. Featured Quotes: "We're taught to do everything ourselves. And so to bring somebody in, it's really scary." - Nancy Benet "If we can expand our awareness and our ability to think outside the box, it opens new doors." - Nancy Benet Earn CPE: NASBA-approved CPE and IRS-approved CE credits are offered via Earmark by listening to this episode. ⁠ Access our QAS Self-Study Courses here: https://www.earmark.app/channels/0384dbbe-df08-4ae3-ba82-621a7a465e95 Conclusion: Thank you for joining us for another episode of Building the Premier Accounting Firm with Roger Knecht. For more information on how you can establish your own accounting firm and take control of your time and income, call 435-344-2060 or schedule an appointment to connect with Roger's team here. Sponsors: Universal Accounting Center Helping accounting professionals confidently and competently offer quality accounting services to get paid what they are worth.   Offers: Success Your Way: Build stronger awareness and structure as you grow your business. Get the free 5 Actions to Instantly Change Your Mindset download here: https://successyourway.com/free-downloads  Special Offers for our Podcast Listeners: CLICK HERE to take advantage of them today! Remember this: Accounting Success IS Universal. Be sure to listen to our next episode and subscribe.   Also, let us know what you think of the podcast and please share any suggestions you may have.  We look forward to your input: Podcast Feedback   For more information on how you can apply these principles to start and build your bookkeeping, accounting, & tax business, please visit us at www.universalaccountingschool.com or call us at 801-265-3777.  And know that if it's about accounting, it's Universal.

  4. Sep 28

    This Week on BPAF : Nancy Benet

    Join us this Wednesday for a new episode where Roger discusses systems for goreth with Nancy Benet.

  5. Sep 23

    Attract High-End Clients as an Advisor w/ Ann Carden

    Welcome to another episode of Building the Premier Accounting Firm. Today Roger Knecht welcomes Ann Carden to discuss how accounting professionals can stop trading time for money and elevate their practices. Discover strategies to attract high-end clients, position yourself in a category of one, and package high-value advisory services. In This Episode: 00:00:00 Unlocking Hidden Potential in Your Business 00:05:35 Elevating Client Acquisition and Positioning 00:10:10 The Power of Exclusivity and Qualification 00:20:45 Moving Beyond Commodities and Hourly Pricing 00:28:45 Building a Premier Accounting Firm Key Takeaways: Elevate your accounting practice by targeting top-tier clients rather than relying on high-volume funnels. Position your firm as a category of one so buyers pre-sell themselves before the first meeting. Implement high-end strategic advisory packages instead of sticking to hourly billing or minor price bumps. Qualify prospective clients to ensure mutual respect and higher project investment. Featured Quotes: "Visibility is not revenue. Don't confuse that." - Ann Carden "You have to be in a category of one. You have to stand out in a category of one." - Ann Carden Earn CPE: NASBA-approved CPE and IRS-approved CE credits are offered via Earmark by listening to this episode. ⁠ Access our QAS Self-Study Courses here: https://www.earmark.app/channels/0384dbbe-df08-4ae3-ba82-621a7a465e95 Conclusion: Thank you for joining us for another episode of Building the Premier Accounting Firm with Roger Knecht. For more information on how you can establish your own accounting firm and take control of your time and income, call 435-344-2060 or schedule an appointment to connect with Roger's team here.   Sponsors: BILL It's time to grow your capacity, not your headcount. Visit bill.com/BUILDING to get started today, and when you take a demo, you'll receive a $250 gift card. Terms apply.  Universal Accounting Center Helping accounting professionals confidently and competently offer quality accounting services to get paid what they are worth. Offers: flobizsolutions.com   Special Offers for our Podcast Listeners, CLICK HERE to take advantage of them today!   Remember this: Accounting Success IS Universal. Be sure to listen to our next episode and subscribe.   Also, let us know what you think of the podcast and please share any suggestions you may have.  We look forward to your input: Podcast Feedback   For more information on how you can apply these principles to start and build your bookkeeping, accounting, & tax business, please visit us at www.universalaccountingschool.com or call us at 801-265-3777.  And know that if it's about accounting, it's Universal.

  6. Sep 21

    This Week on BPAF : Ann Carden

    Join us this Wednesday for a new episode where Roger discusses elevating your business with Ann Carden.

  7. Sep 16

    Beyond Compliance: Scaling High-Impact CFO Services

    Welcome to another episode of Building the Premier Accounting Firm. Today, Roger Knecht and The CFO Project CEO Dyanna Salcedo discuss how accounting professionals can pivot from traditional compliance work to high-impact CFO advisory services. This episode explores the impact of AI and offshoring on the accounting industry and provides a clear framework for building a scalable, profitable advisory practice. In This Episode: 00:00:00 Introduction to Expert Insights 00:01:38 Defining Accounting vs. Advisory Roles 00:06:42 Scalable CFO Advisory Models 00:13:47 Structuring Successful Client Engagements 00:22:08 Overcoming Barriers to Advisory Services 00:28:44 The Role of AI in Accounting 00:35:05 Closing Thoughts and Future Opportunities Key Takeaways: Define the role of a CFO advisor as a forward-looking guide for small business owners rather than a historical reporter. Leverage AI as a powerful tool for efficiency while maintaining a human-in-the-lead approach for judgment and accountability. Focus on cash flow drivers to provide tangible, high-value results that justify premium pricing. Featured Quotes: "Your job is to illuminate where the client should focus. They will have the answers of how to actually affect that driver." — Dyanna Salcedo "We call it human in the lead. You want to stay in the lead, making sure that you're verifying everything." — Dyanna Salcedo "AI cannot certify financials. AI cannot submit a tax return and sign off on that return as the preparer." — Roger Knecht Earn CPE: NASBA-approved CPE and IRS-approved CE credits are offered via Earmark by listening to this episode. ⁠ Access our QAS Self-Study Courses here: https://www.earmark.app/channels/0384dbbe-df08-4ae3-ba82-621a7a465e95 Conclusion: Thank you for joining us for another episode of Building the Premier Accounting Firm with Roger Knecht. For more information on how you can establish your own accounting firm and take control of your time and income, call 435-344-2060 or schedule an appointment to connect with Roger's team here. Sponsors: BILL It's time to grow your capacity, not your headcount. Visit bill.com/BUILDING to get started today, and when you take a demo, you'll receive a $250 gift card. Terms apply.  Universal Accounting Center Helping accounting professionals confidently and competently offer quality accounting services to get paid what they are worth. Offers: flobizsolutions.com   Special Offers for our Podcast Listeners, CLICK HERE to take advantage of them today!   Remember this: Accounting Success IS Universal. Be sure to listen to our next episode and subscribe.   Also, let us know what you think of the podcast and please share any suggestions you may have.  We look forward to your input: Podcast Feedback   For more information on how you can apply these principles to start and build your bookkeeping, accounting, & tax business, please visit us at www.universalaccountingschool.com or call us at 801-265-3777.  And know that if it's about accounting, it's Universal.

  8. Sep 9

    Stop Doing the Books: A Step-by-Step Guide to CFO Advisory

    On today's episode of Building the Premier Accounting Firm, Roger Knecht welcomes guest Jimmy Moore to discuss the critical intersection of merchant services, payment compliance, and financial technology for accounting firms. They explore how advisors can better protect their clients from rising fees and regulatory pitfalls while streamlining tech stacks for better performance. In This Episode: 00:00 Introduction to the Podcast 01:29 Understanding Merchant Services 04:20 PCI Compliance Fundamentals 06:46 Tech Stacks and Integrations 09:43 Four Compliant Billing Models 14:18 Cash Discounting Pitfalls 17:53 Visa Regulations and Enforcement 22:14 Future of Payment Technology 26:57 Leveraging Partnerships for Growth 32:02 Effective Rate and Closing Thoughts Key Takeaways: Audit client payment models to ensure they follow one of the four approved methods: surcharging, cash discounting, dual pricing, or convenience fees. Prioritize PCI compliance to safeguard sensitive cardholder data and avoid costly non-compliance fines. Integrate payment solutions with core accounting software to reduce manual data entry and minimize human error. Earn CPE: NASBA-approved CPE and IRS-approved CE credits are offered via Earmark by listening to this episode. ⁠ Access our QAS Self-Study Courses here: https://www.earmark.app/channels/0384dbbe-df08-4ae3-ba82-621a7a465e95 Conclusion: Thank you for joining us for another episode of Building the Premier Accounting Firm with Roger Knecht. For more information on how you can establish your own accounting firm and take control of your time and income, call 435-344-2060 or schedule an appointment to connect with Roger's team here.   Sponsors: BILL It's time to grow your capacity, not your headcount by using BILL, the AI-powered, exception-based AP solution built to help accounting firms work smarter as they scale and grow. From managing domestic and global payments to reducing manual data entry, BILL helps your team operate more efficiently. You'll gain better visibility and control over financial operations and save time on routine processes. That means more time focused on strategic client success, stronger relationships, and higher-value advisory work. Plus, BILL supports healthier cash flow for your firm with automated invoicing that can help you get paid up to two times faster. Join the more than 9,000 accounting firms who trust BILL Visit bill.com/BUILDING to get started today, and when you take a demo, you'll receive a $250 gift card. Terms apply.  Universal Accounting Center Helping accounting professionals confidently and competently offer quality accounting services to get paid what they are worth. Offers: flobizsolutions.com   Special Offers for our Podcast Listeners, CLICK HERE to take advantage of them today!   Remember this: Accounting Success IS Universal. Be sure to listen to our next episode and subscribe.   Also, let us know what you think of the podcast and please share any suggestions you may have.  We look forward to your input: Podcast Feedback   For more information on how you can apply these principles to start and build your bookkeeping, accounting, & tax business, please visit us at www.universalaccountingschool.com or call us at 801-265-3777.  And know that if it's about accounting, it's Universal.

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A show dedicated to helping accounting professionals confidently and competently offer quality accounting services to get paid what they are worth. Each episode is conversational with tips and tricks to help you apply the principles of M.A.P. as they relate to starting and building a successful accounting business. Topics include Marketing, Lead Generation, Ideal Clients, Pricing, Price Strategies, Accounting Services, Value Added Services, Workflow, Practice Management, Staff Training, Client On-boarding, Client Relations & Retention, etc. This podcast will help you become an Accountrepreneur, to work ON your business with advice from the experts.

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