The Ambitious Bookkeeper Podcast

Serena Shoup, CPA
  • 4.7 (61)
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  • UPDATED WEEKLY

The Ambitious Bookkeeper podcast is for bookkeepers & accountants who are growing or aspiring to start their own business. Our mission is to elevate the bookkeeping profession by providing support and resources for new and experienced firm owners. We share actionable tips on running a successful bookkeeping business, tools and resources, plus guest expert interviews that will help you elevate your business. Where you can find us: Website: https://www.ambitiousbookkeeper.com BBA: https://www.ambitiousbookkeeper.com/bba Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/serenashoupcpa LinkedIn: https://linkedin.com/in/serenashoup Instagram: https://instagram.com/ambitiousbookkeeper

  1. 6D AGO

    226 | Need to know OBBBA highlights for Bookkeepers Adrian Lopez

    Send us a text The 'One Big Beautiful Bill' introduces significant tax changes for 1099s, depreciation, and employer credits, emphasizing meticulous bookkeeping for compliance and savings. Listen in to the conversation with Adrian & Serena as they unpack the need-to-know highlights for bookkeepers and how you can stand out in the industry by making a few small changes to your processes. In this episode you’ll hear: 1099 Reporting ChangesBonus Depreciation and Section 179Tips and Charitable ContributionsEmployer Tax Credits and DeductionsPass-Through Entity Tax and ReconciliationResources mentioned in this episode: → want to see that ‘tax package’ in action? Grab the Confident Compliance Bundle205 ⎸ Protecting Your Clients from Audits with Ex Irs Auditor Adrian LopezMeet Adrian I’m Adrian Lopez, a Certified Public Accountant (CPA) and former IRS Revenue Agent. During my tenure as a Revenue Agent in the IRS Small Business / Self-Employed Division, I audited self-employed and small business taxpayers like restaurants, construction contractors, real estate agents & brokers, wealth managers, tax preparers, and farmers. Now, I help individuals, families, small businesses, and non-profits thrive by providing quality tax return preparation, tax planning & advisory, bookkeeping & accounting, and tax representation. Connect with Adrian Website: https://anlcpa.com/ Linkedin: https://www.linkedin.com/in/adrianl1996/ Thanks for listening. If this episode inspired you in some way, take a screenshot of you listening on your device and post it to your Instagram stories and tag me @ambitiousbookkeeper For more information about the Ambitious Bookkeeper Podcast or interest in our programs or mentoring visit our resources below: Visit our website: https://www.ambitiousbookkeeper.comFollow the Blog: https://www.ambitiousbookkeeper.com/blogConnect on Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/ambitiousbookkeeperConnect on Threads: https://www.threads.net/@ambitiousbookkeeperConnect on Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/serenashoupcpaThank you for your support of our show. If you haven’t left a review yet it’s super simple. Please go to ambitiousbookkeeper.com/podcast and leave your review. Podcast Publishing Tools we use: Editing → Sabr Media LLC: https://www.iangilliam.com/sabr-media-llcDescript: https://get.descript.com/u7lubkx09073 (affiliate link)Buzzsprout: https://www.buzzsprout.com/?referrer_id=1753696 (affiliate link)

    58 min

  2. 12/17/2025

    225 ⎸ Recast: Become a Bookkeeper with Katie Ferro

    Send us a text Before we close things down for the holidays, I decided to bring back one of my favorite interviews from the vault. In 2021 during one of our Bookkeeping Biz Workshop rounds, I brought Katie on to chat about a program she had just created—which is still going strong today—in fact, has been revamped and redesiged since she created it, and I want to make sure you all know about it. But more so than that, I wanted to bring this conversation back to you in case you’re planning for the new year. This will give you some things to consider, especially if you’re balancing motherhood with building your business, or dreaming of starting your business in 2026. In this episode you’ll hear: Katie’s background: CPA → corporate → motherhood → bookkeeping business (and how she was “paid to quit” at the perfect time)The emotional reality of leaving corporate—even when it’s the right moveWhy the early seasons of motherhood are intense, and how that shapes business decisionsHow Katie’s bookkeeping business grew: referrals, small beginnings, pricing lessons, and early client expansionThe mindset shift: bookkeeping as a stable, scalable foundation (especially once you hire a team)Hiring earlier than feels comfortable: babysitters, cleaners, and bookkeepers as “buying back time”Why working at home with kids around can be harder than being fully out of the houseOffice space + opportunity cost: how one monthly client can fund the setup that changes everythingTraining a team the right way: slow client-by-client handoff, upfront time investment, long-term payoffClient continuity + freedom: not being the only person clients rely onKatie’s Become a Bookkeeper (BABS) course overview: Learn → Shadow → Apply (practicum)Resources mentioned in this episode: Become A BookkeeperConnect with Katie: : instagram.com/orderlyaccountingbykatie Listen to Katie’s Podcast: Profits & Prosecco Sign up for Become A Bookkeeper Thanks for listening. If this episode inspired you in some way, take a screenshot of you listening on your device and post it to your Instagram stories and tag me @ambitiousbookkeeper For more information about the Ambitious Bookkeeper Podcast or interest in our programs or mentoring visit our resources below: Visit our website: https://www.ambitiousbookkeeper.comFollow the Blog: https://www.ambitiousbookkeeper.com/blogConnect on Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/ambitiousbookkeeperConnect on Threads: https://www.threads.net/@ambitiousbookkeeperConnect on Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/serenashoupcpaThank you for your support of our show. If you haven’t left a review yet it’s super simple. Please go to ambitiousbookkeeper.com/podcast and leave your review. Podcast Publishing Tools we use: Editing → Sabr Media LLC: https://www.iangilliam.com/sabr-media-llcDescript: https://get.descript.com/u7lubkx09073 (affiliate link)Buzzsprout:

    1h 10m

  3. 12/10/2025

    224 | Using Human-First AI for Visibility with Kelly Sinclair

    Send us a text I had the best conversation with Kelly Sinclair about something that's been on my mind (and probably yours too): how to actually use AI without losing the human connection that makes your business YOU. We dive deep into why social media might not be the lead generator you think it is, how to build visibility strategies that don't rely on the algorithm, and how AI can actually help you show up MORE human, not less. In this episode you’ll hear: Why taking a break from social media might be the best business decision you makeHow to flip your AI mindset from "polish my work" to "support me first"The three ways to monetize AI in your businessResources mentioned in this episode: 90 Day Visibility Sprint Starter Kit https://kellysinclair.thrivecart.com/the-90-day-visibility-sprint-podcast/?coupon=SERENAPODValerieBrand CalibratorNotebook LMChatGPTMindPalManyChatZapierQuickBooks OnlineMeet Kelly Kelly Sinclair is a visibility strategist, AI-powered marketing expert, and host of Entrepreneur School. An accidental tech nerd and professional mom taxi, she helps entrepreneurs ditch random acts of marketing, build visibility habits that actually work, and grow through intentional visibility—not by selling their soul to social media. Connect with Kelly Podcast: https://entrepreneurschool.ca/podcast/ Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/ksco_kelly/ Thanks for listening. If this episode inspired you in some way, take a screenshot of you listening on your device and post it to your Instagram stories and tag me @ambitiousbookkeeper For more information about the Ambitious Bookkeeper Podcast or interest in our programs or mentoring visit our resources below: Visit our website: https://www.ambitiousbookkeeper.comFollow the Blog: https://www.ambitiousbookkeeper.com/blogConnect on Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/ambitiousbookkeeperConnect on Threads: https://www.threads.net/@ambitiousbookkeeperConnect on Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/serenashoupcpaThank you for your support of our show. If you haven’t left a review yet it’s super simple. Please go to ambitiousbookkeeper.com/podcast and leave your review. Podcast Publishing Tools we use: Editing → Sabr Media LLC: https://www.iangilliam.com/sabr-media-llcDescript: https://get.descript.com/u7lubkx09073 (affiliate link)Buzzsprout: https://www.buzzsprout.com/?referrer_id=1753696 (affiliate link)

    43 min

  4. 12/03/2025

    223 | Using AI Securely + to Land Clients with Kelsey Silver

    Send us a text In this episode, I'm chatting with my friend Kelsey Silver about something so many of you have been asking about - how the heck are we supposed to use AI without compromising our clients' security? Kelsey has a super unique background and she breaks down exactly what we need to look for when evaluating AI tools for our firms. Plus, she shares about her AI app Foresight HQ that helps you identify your hottest leads in your Instagram DMs - no more chasing people who just wanted the freebie! In this episode you’ll hear: How to evaluate AI tools for securityThe difference between machine learning and generative AIHow Kelsey balances building an app, doing VIP days, working a corporate job, AND being a mom to a 4.5-year-oldResources mentioned in this episode: The Metrics 7-Figure Business Owners Can't Live Without: https://kelseysilver.com/metrics5 DM Signals $FREE: https://foresighthq.app/5signalsNotionThriveCart, High Level, and SamCartManyChatMeet Kelsey Kelsey Silver is a data and AI strategist and the founder of ForesightHQ, an AI-powered DM lead tracker designed for business owners who want to follow up in their DMs without feeling like a sales robot. With a background in psychology, 10+ years in corporate analytics, and a deep love for systems that actually fit your life, Kelsey helps entrepreneurs find the hidden gold in their data so they can sell smarter and with more integrity. When she’s not decoding buyer signals or mapping launch strategies, you can find her at a Ren Faire with her daughter or decompression from reading spreadsheets all day with a bag of Oreos and an oat milk chai latte. Connect with Kelsey Instagram: @kelseyesilver Website: https://kelseysilver.com/ App: https://foresighthq.app Thanks for listening. If this episode inspired you in some way, take a screenshot of you listening on your device and post it to your Instagram stories and tag me @ambitiousbookkeeper For more information about the Ambitious Bookkeeper Podcast or interest in our programs or mentoring visit our resources below: Visit our website: https://www.ambitiousbookkeeper.comFollow the Blog: https://www.ambitiousbookkeeper.com/blogConnect on Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/ambitiousbookkeeperConnect on Threads: https://www.threads.net/@ambitiousbookkeeperConnect on Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/serenashoupcpaThank you for your support of our show. If you haven’t left a review yet it’s super simple. Please go to ambitiousbookkeeper.com/podcast and leave your review. Podcast Publishing Tools we use: Editing → Sabr Media LLC: https://www.iangilliam.com/sabr-media-llcDescript: https://get.descript.com/u7lubkx09073 (affiliate link)Buzzsprout: https://www.buzzsprout.com/?referrer_id=1753696 (affiliate link)

    38 min

  5. 10/29/2025

    222 ⎸ Hubdoc: Audit-Proof Your Business

    Send us a text This episode is best watched on YouTube > In this episode, I'm walking you through one of my absolute favorite tools for keeping your business audit-proof: Hubdoc. I'll show you exactly how we use it at Of Course Financial to help our clients manage their supporting business documents digitally, save hundreds of hours every year, and stay compliant with IRS requirements. Plus, I've got some exciting announcements about upcoming Xero tutorials, the Bookkeeping Biz Workshops re-airing, and our Black Friday sale! In this episode you’ll hear: How Hubdoc automatically organizes receipts, invoices, and statements by vendorStep-by-step process for uploading, reviewing, and categorizing documents in Hubdoc before pushing them to Xero or QuickBooksPro tips on avoiding duplicate entries and keeping your books clean while building an audit-proof paper trailResources mentioned in this episode: https://www.irs.gov/businesses/small-businesses-self-employed/what-kind-of-records-should-i-keepFor experienced bookkeepers & accountants: Learn how to start your bookkeeping business in The Bookkeeping Business Accelerator® >> Grab my FREE Start your Bookkeeping Biz Checklist >> Grab my FREE New Client Onboarding Templates >> For new bookkeepers: Learn the fundamental accounting skills in Katie Ferro's Become a Bookkeeper** >> For creators: Become a client at my firm, Of Course Financial >> For more information about the Ambitious Bookkeeper Podcast or interest in our programs or mentoring visit our resources below: Visit my website: ambitiousbookkeeper.comSubscribe to my Newsletter ambitiousbookkeeper.com/blogConnect on Instagram: instagram.com/ambitiousbookkeeperConnect on Threads: threads.net/@ambitiousbookkeeperPodcast Publishing Tools we use: Podcast Editing: Sabr Media LLCDescript**Buzzsprout**AFFILIATE DISCLAIMER We participate in affiliate marketing programs, which means we may earn a commission from purchases made through the links above. However, our recommendations are based on our own research and expertise, and your trust is our priority.

    13 min

  6. 10/22/2025

    221 ⎸ [Q&A] Pricing Cleanups, Marketing, and Cyber Insurance

    Send us a text Hey guys! This month's live Q&A was packed with real talk about the nitty-gritty of running a bookkeeping business. We covered everything from pricing cleanups (spoiler: diagnostics are your best friend) to getting cyber insurance (yes, it's non-negotiable), and I even got vulnerable about my experience juggling babies and business. If you've ever wondered how to market to trades, what reports clients actually need, or how to take maternity leave as a business owner, this episode is for you! In this episode you’ll hear: How to price cleanups without Getting BurnedMarketing Strategies that Actually Work for Your NicheCyber InsuranceMaternity Leave and BusinessResources mentioned in this episode: Jock Wols - featured on Ambitious Bookkeeper Podcast for cyber insurance discussion: https://youtu.be/QmXfN_PaKWEKarrisa Martino - Health Insurance Specialist: ambitiousbookkeeper.com/blog/121Elevate: https://www.ambitiousbookkeeper.com/elevateConfident Compliance Bundle: https://www.ambitiousbookkeeper.com/offers/tgPgMBJ7Mini Course Bundle: https://www.ambitiousbookkeeper.com/offers/vYYfsxH9Akadian: https://fastandeasyqbo.samcart.com/referral/ihiA1kYR/8Duca0gOuAg8wpjFEmail List - Sign up at: https://www.ambitiousbookkeeper.com/subscribeKeeper: https://keeper.app/?via=serenaCanva: https://www.canva.com/join/relish-scale-floristicUpcounsel: https://www.upcounsel.com/rf/8dCYxoOUHousecall Pro: https://link.hscll.com/3i3yrLady Pros Facebook GroupAlignableThanks for listening. If this episode inspired you in some way, take a screenshot of you listening on your device and post it to your Instagram stories and tag me @ambitiousbookkeeper For more information about the Ambitious Bookkeeper Podcast or interest in our programs or mentoring visit our resources below: Visit our website: https://www.ambitiousbookkeeper.comFollow the Blog: https://www.ambitiousbookkeeper.com/blogConnect on Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/ambitiousbookkeeperConnect on Threads: https://www.threads.net/@ambitiousbookkeeperConnect on Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/serenashoupcpaThank you for your support of our show. If you haven’t left a review yet it’s super simple. Please go to ambitiousbookkeeper.com/podcast and leave your review. Podcast Publishing Tools we use: Editing → Sabr Media LLC: https://www.iangilliam.com/sabr-media-llcDescript: https://get.descript.com/u7lubkx09073 (affiliate link)Buzzsprout: https://www.buzzsp

    50 min

  7. 10/15/2025

    220 | I worked 45 hours in August; and it’s not on what you think

    Send us a text some links are affiliate links Want to see my weekly timesheets? Follow me on Threads: https://www.threads.net/@ambitiousbookkeeper No one talks enough about the amount of time that goes into an online course business. So I’m talking about it today. In this episode you’ll hear: My profit margins for both my firm & my online course businessthe time I spend during launches & fulfillmenthow much time I spent in August 2025 on both businessesResources mentioned in this episode: Clockify → timetrackingFor experienced bookkeepers & accountants: Learn how to start your bookkeeping business in The Bookkeeping Business Accelerator® >> Grab my FREE Start your Bookkeeping Biz Checklist >> Grab my FREE New Client Onboarding Templates >> For new bookkeepers: Learn the fundamental accounting skills in Katie Ferro's Become a Bookkeeper** >> For creators: Become a client at my firm, Of Course Financial >> For more information about the Ambitious Bookkeeper Podcast or interest in our programs or mentoring visit our resources below: Visit my website: ambitiousbookkeeper.comSubscribe to my Newsletter ambitiousbookkeeper.com/blogConnect on Instagram: instagram.com/ambitiousbookkeeperConnect on Threads: threads.net/@ambitiousbookkeeperPodcast Publishing Tools we use: Podcast Editing: Sabr Media LLCDescript**Buzzsprout**AFFILIATE DISCLAIMER We participate in affiliate marketing programs, which means we may earn a commission from purchases made through the links above. However, our recommendations are based on our own research and expertise, and your trust is our priority.

    9 min

  8. 10/08/2025

    219 | Top Scams Happening to Bookkeepers in 2025 with Jock Wols

    Send us a text Cyber scams targeting bookkeepers are getting more sophisticated, and I'm sitting down with insurance expert Jock Wols to talk about what's happening in our industry right now. I even share my own recent experience being targeted through the Gusto partner directory—twice in one day! If you think it won't happen to you, think again. This conversation is packed with real stories, practical tips, and the insurance knowledge you need to protect your business in 2025. In this episode you’ll hear: The most common scams hitting bookkeepers right now, including phishing attacks through trusted directories like Gusto and QuickBooksMy personal story of almost falling victim to a payroll scam (and how one of those fake "clients" actually got to another bookkeeper)Why picking up the phone is your best defense against wire transfer fraudWhat cyber insurance actually covers (spoiler: not all policies are created equal) and the gaps you need to know aboutResources mentioned in this episode: Episode with Jock on Insurance BasicsBehind the Scenes Newsletter (Past Volumes) >watch the video version on YouTube >> Meet Jock Wols Jock is the Founder and CEO of RiskDesk, an insurance broker and technology company based out of Lexington, Kentucky. In partnership with Nationwide, he established the PT Pro platform (https://www.ptprocover.com) to serve small business’ insurance needs. He has almost 20 years of experience to help professionals manage their risk by delivering market-leading E&O / Professional Liability and Cyber Liability insurance solutions. Before he established RiskDesk in 2017, Jock managed the professional liability portfolio at XL Catlin and was based in London, New York and Lexington. He graduated from Washington & Lee University with a BSc in 2004 and obtained his MBA from New York University in 2013. Connect with Jock Reach out directly to Jock at jock.wols@myriskdesk.com or (859) 327-5594. Thanks for listening. If this episode inspired you in some way, take a screenshot of you listening on your device and post it to your Instagram stories and tag me @ambitiousbookkeeper For more information about the Ambitious Bookkeeper Podcast or interest in our programs or mentoring visit our resources below: Visit our website: https://www.ambitiousbookkeeper.comFollow the Blog: https://www.ambitiousbookkeeper.com/blogConnect on Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/ambitiousbookkeeperConnect on Threads: https://www.threads.net/@ambitiousbookkeeperConnect on Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/serenashoupcpaThank you for your support of our show. If you haven’t left a review yet it’s super simple. Please go to ambitiousbookkeeper.com/podcast and leave your review. Podcast Publishing Tools we use: Editing → Sabr Media LLC: https://www.iangilliam.com/sabr-media-llcDescript: https://get.descript.com/u7lubkx09073 (affiliate link)Buzzsprout: https:

    54 min
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About

The Ambitious Bookkeeper podcast is for bookkeepers & accountants who are growing or aspiring to start their own business. Our mission is to elevate the bookkeeping profession by providing support and resources for new and experienced firm owners. We share actionable tips on running a successful bookkeeping business, tools and resources, plus guest expert interviews that will help you elevate your business. Where you can find us: Website: https://www.ambitiousbookkeeper.com BBA: https://www.ambitiousbookkeeper.com/bba Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/serenashoupcpa LinkedIn: https://linkedin.com/in/serenashoup Instagram: https://instagram.com/ambitiousbookkeeper

Information

  • Creator
    Serena Shoup, CPA
  • Years Active
    2021 - 2026
  • Episodes
    238
  • Rating
    Explicit
  • Copyright
    © 2026 The Ambitious Bookkeeper Podcast
  • Show Website
    The Ambitious Bookkeeper Podcast

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