Modern Tax Pros

Dave Haase, from Juno
  • 5.0 (1)
  • Management

Tax work is hard enough. The way we do it makes it harder. Modern Tax Pros is a podcast for firm owners and tax professionals who are tired of 60 hour weeks, manual workpapers, and emailing clients fifteen times to get the same documents. If you have ever double checked a PDF at midnight or felt trapped by software that is older than your staff, you will feel at home here. Hosted by Dave Haase, a CPA and firm owner who bought his first practice in 2015, this show is about improving the tools and processes of our trade. After stepping into ownership, Dave was struck by how much of the work was still manual. Twenty year old software. Data entry from scanned documents. Review systems built on personal checklists instead of shared workflows. The inefficiency is not just frustrating. It raises prices for clients, burns out teams, and keeps firm owners stuck in the grind. Each episode brings practical, tactical conversations about how to run a more modern tax firm. You will hear from firm owners, staff inside tax practices, operators rolling up firms, and people building technology in the space. Topics include tightening up prep and review, moving into advisory without blowing up capacity, improving training, and adopting new tools in a way that actually works in real practice life. This podcast is part of Modern Tax Pros by Juno. Juno is AI tax prep software built by Dave Haase, a CPA and tax firm owner. It helps with tax preparation and review by entering data from source documents, building workpapers, and checking for errors so you can spend more time using your judgment instead of retyping numbers. On the show, you will hear honest conversations about what is working, what is breaking, and how technology should support the human side of this profession. If you care about your clients, your team, and the future of your firm, this is a place to think out loud about how we make tax work better. Welcome to Modern Tax Pros. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Episodes

  1. Ep #8: Rocky Lippold on Why AI Will Make Tax Work More Human

    Jun 4

    Ep #8: Rocky Lippold on Why AI Will Make Tax Work More Human

    Dave Haase sits down with Rocky Lippold, founder of Freedom Tax Accounting & Tax, who has an unusual story of retiring three times and coming back stronger each time. Rocky just acquired a practice with 850 clients, adding to his existing 400 clients, and is eyeing another acquisition before tax season. His approach to growth centers on personal relationships and face-to-face meetings, even driving hours to meet clients in person for onboarding sessions. Rocky shares how he built his practice with family members including his accountant daughter, retired brother, and wife who worked as a paralegal for 26 years. He discusses managing 200 Amish clients with extensive Schedule F returns, implementing Tax Dome and Juno for efficiency, and his belief that AI will actually make tax work more human by handling data entry while accountants focus on client relationships. Rocky emphasizes the importance of admitting mistakes to clients and taking time to truly understand their businesses rather than just processing returns. Key topics covered: [00:00] Intro [01:37] Military tax beginnings and multiple retirements [03:23] Building practice back up through acquisitions [05:38] Growth mindset despite retirement attempts [08:33] Training remote family staff members [09:40] In person client onboarding preference [10:08] Detailed client onboarding process [12:00] Acquiring 200 Amish farming clients [15:19] Tax Dome and Juno integration goals [18:10] Going paperless after RV lifestyle [20:31] Future of tax profession with AI [22:21] S corp conversion saves $17000 annually [23:07] Human element remains crucial with AI [27:50] Growth advice and owning mistakes [31:48] Just do it philosophy Rocky's philosophy is simple but powerful - the human element in accounting cannot be replaced, and the best tax professionals will spend more time with clients, not less, as technology handles the routine work. The Modern Tax Pros Podcast is brought to you by Juno, AI tax prep software built for tax pros who are sick of 60-hour weeks. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

    32 min
  2. Ep #7: Paul Whelan on Automating Tax Workflows and Practice Management Systems

    May 14

    Ep #7: Paul Whelan on Automating Tax Workflows and Practice Management Systems

    Dave Haase sits down with Paul Whelan, EA and Founder of Whelan Advisory Group, to discuss building and scaling a modern solo tax practice. Paul shares his journey from working at a local firm to starting his own practice 2 years ago, focusing on small businesses under $5 million in revenue. He explains how he provides comprehensive services from bookkeeping to tax planning, positioning himself as a single point of contact for local business owners who prefer face-to-face relationships over virtual-only firms. Paul dives into the technology stack that enables his solo practice to compete effectively. He discusses implementing Canopy for practice management, Ignition for proposal automation, and Stanford Tax for document collection. The conversation explores how modern tax professionals handle misinformation from social media, stay current with changing tax laws, and manage the seasonal demands of tax work while maintaining work-life balance. Paul also addresses pricing strategies in an industry where practitioners have historically undercharged for their expertise. Key topics covered: [00:00] Intro [01:08] Paul's accounting journey and firm foundation [02:29] Local small business focus strategy [04:19] Full service approach benefits [07:57] Biggest challenges facing tax professionals [10:26] Managing tax law changes effectively [12:17] Essential practice management technology stack [14:44] Adopting new technology successfully [16:01] Full tax automation vision [20:06] Work life balance during tax season [24:04] Integrating multiple software systems [30:22] Five year practice growth plans [32:04] Strategic pricing and capacity management [36:19] Practice management software evolution [38:17] Future of tax professional services This episode offers practical insights for tax professionals looking to modernize their practices and build sustainable solo operations in today's competitive market. The Modern Tax Pros Podcast is brought to you by Juno, AI tax prep software built for tax pros who are sick of 60-hour weeks. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

    45 min
  3. Ep #6: AI Automation in Tax Practice with BlueSky Wealth Advisors Head David Blain

    Apr 30

    Ep #6: AI Automation in Tax Practice with BlueSky Wealth Advisors Head David Blain

    Dave Haase sits down with David Blain, the CFA and founder of BlueSky Wealth Advisors, to explore how combining tax preparation with wealth management creates superior client outcomes. David shares his unconventional path from West Point graduate and military special ops to building a practice that integrates tax compliance with comprehensive financial planning. He explains why clients benefit from having one trusted advisor handle both their investments and tax strategy, rather than coordinating between separate professionals. The conversation dives deep into how AI automation is transforming tax practices and freeing professionals to focus on higher-value advisory work. David details how his team uses Juno's computer vision technology to extract data from tax documents, allowing administrative staff to participate meaningfully in the tax process while tax preparers focus on strategic planning. He also shares his systematic approach to advisory workflows, using CRM automation to ensure no planning opportunities are missed based on client income and complexity levels. Key topics covered: [00:00] Intro [01:43] Military to wealth management journey [04:23] Combining tax and wealth management [06:59] Adding value beyond compliance work [11:21] Future of tax preparation industry [14:43] Building advisory workflows and systems [19:47] AI transforming tax strategy identification [23:03] Data integration challenges and solutions [28:13] Human judgment in tax decisions [34:29] AI limitations in complex scenarios [40:01] Structured vs conversational AI outputs [44:45] Team transformation with automation tools [47:25] Staff happiness and job elevation This episode offers valuable insights for tax professionals considering advisory services and firm owners looking to leverage AI for better client service and team satisfaction. The Modern Tax Pros Podcast is brought to you by Juno, AI tax prep software built for tax pros who are sick of 60-hour weeks. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

    53 min
  4. Ep #5: Building a Tax Practice Around Freelancers and Self Employed Clients

    Apr 16

    Ep #5: Building a Tax Practice Around Freelancers and Self Employed Clients

    Dave Haase sits down with Adam Manning, Founder of Nomadic Solutions, to discuss building a tax practice that serves small businesses and self-employed clients others often overlook. Adam shares how he grew from helping 2 clients to running a full practice in just 2 years, with a unique focus on tattoo artists and gig economy workers. He explains his approach to making tax services affordable while staying profitable through automation and clear boundaries. The conversation covers Adam's transition from corporate controller to practice owner, his interview process for qualifying clients, and how he structures services for freelancers who need guidance but can't pay traditional rates. Adam discusses the challenges of serving cash-based businesses like tattoo shops, where many artists live paycheck to paycheck but are increasingly willing to become legitimate business owners as the industry grows and gains social acceptance. Key topics covered: [00:00] Intro [01:36] Nomadic Solutions Origin Story [03:52] Serving Tattoo Artists and Freelancers [06:24] Advisory Services for Gig Workers [08:32] Industry Challenges and Revenue Scaling [11:55] Balancing Profitability with Service [15:23] Client Boundaries and Selection Process [17:15] Managing Complex Bookkeeping Workflows [21:40] Communication Standards and Client Fit [25:29] Automation Tools and Tax Dome Integration [29:05] Practice Management Software Transitions [33:16] Fractional CFO Services Expansion [35:18] Remote Client Relationship Building [38:12] AI Impact on Tax Preparation [42:28] Future of Human Expertise A practical discussion on building sustainable tax practices that serve underserved markets while maintaining profitability and work-life balance. The Modern Tax Pros Podcast is brought to you by Juno, AI tax prep software built for tax pros who are sick of 60-hour weeks. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

    45 min
  5. Ep #4: The Real Value of Tax Professionals in an AI World with Yehuda Tenenbaum

    Apr 2

    Ep #4: The Real Value of Tax Professionals in an AI World with Yehuda Tenenbaum

    Dave Haase sits down with Yehuda Tenenbaum, EA and founder of Y10 Tax Solutions, to explore his journey from reluctant do-it-yourselfer to successful tax professional. Yehuda shares how he transitioned from running finances for his wife's summer camp to building his own accounting firm, making the leap to full-time practice in December 2023. Their conversation reveals why the current landscape offers unprecedented opportunities for new tax professionals willing to carve out their own niche. The discussion dives deep into client management strategies that separate successful practices from struggling ones. Yehuda and Dave explore the critical importance of setting boundaries, firing problem clients, and how A-plus clients who pay on time and communicate well often receive unlimited access to their accountants. They also tackle the role of AI in tax preparation, explaining why professional expertise remains irreplaceable for complex tax situations and behavioral change management, even as technology advances. Key topics covered: [00:00] Intro [01:00] From Summer Camp CFO to Tax Pro [02:13] Choose Your Own Adventure in Accounting [03:37] Why AI Won't Replace Tax Professionals [05:20] The Value Proposition of Professional Tax Help [08:10] Building Client Relationships Through Results [10:20] Setting Boundaries with A-Plus Clients [12:04] The Emotional Impact of Financial Services [14:50] Energy Management and Difficult Clients [17:26] Specialization vs Complex Tax Returns [20:12] Building Professional Networks for Support [22:00] Deep Learning and Reading IRS Instructions [24:27] Meeting the Guy Who Writes Form 1116 [25:47] Practical Continuing Education with Real Returns [27:05] Connect with Yehuda and Final Thoughts This episode offers practical insights for both new and experienced tax professionals looking to build sustainable, profitable practices while maintaining their sanity during tax season. The Modern Tax Pros Podcast is brought to you by Juno, AI tax prep software built for tax pros who are sick of 60-hour weeks. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

    29 min
  6. Ep #3: How Joel Yaeger Built an Integrated Tax and Wealth Advisory Firm

    Mar 19

    Ep #3: How Joel Yaeger Built an Integrated Tax and Wealth Advisory Firm

    Dave Haase sits down with Joel Yaeger, CPA and Founder of CMPD Wealth Advisory & Tax, to explore how modern tax firms are evolving beyond traditional compliance work. Joel shares his vision of creating a true one stop shop that integrates tax planning, wealth management, and eventually legal services under one roof, eliminating the coordination challenges clients face when working with separate advisors. The conversation dives into Joel's acquisition strategy for accounting and RIA firms, revealing what he looks for in potential targets and how AI tools are changing the economics of firm rollups. Joel explains how his team uses technology to elevate junior staff from mundane document processing to meaningful tax preparation work, creating better career paths while improving client service. They discuss the shift from tax season being a frantic compliance rush to a more strategic year round planning approach, where the real value lies in advisory services rather than just filing returns. Key topics covered: [00:00] Intro [01:30] Integrated Tax and Wealth Planning Vision [03:26] One Stop Shop Strategy for Clients [06:07] Cross Selling Wealth Management to Tax Clients [08:41] Real Estate Professional Strategy Example [11:22] Acquisition Criteria for Accounting Firms [14:54] Tech Stack Requirements for M&A [18:37] AI Transforms Lower Level Staff Into Heroes [23:03] Admin Team Speaks Client Language Better [26:19] Clean Data Entry Reduces Mental Stress [31:01] AI Enables Volume Based M&A Strategy [34:27] Showing Prospects Your AI Process [36:42] Tax Season vs Tax Planning Season Split [39:02] AI Suggests Strategies Staff Wouldn't Know This episode offers practical insights for any tax professional considering how to position their firm for the future of the industry. The Modern Tax Pros Podcast is brought to you by Juno, AI tax prep software built for tax pros who are sick of 60-hour weeks. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

    41 min
  7. Ep #2: This Father Son Duo Built a 2000 Client Tax Practice

    Mar 5

    Ep #2: This Father Son Duo Built a 2000 Client Tax Practice

    Host Dave sits down with the father son team of Tony and Zach Amatore to discuss their remarkable journey building a multi-generational tax practice. Tony started his firm from scratch in 1985 after his mentor passed away, growing it to 750 clients before selling and eventually getting it back. Now he and Zach are rapidly scaling through strategic acquisitions, going from 400 to 2000 clients by January. The Amatores share their approach to client management, including their A through F grading system where they actively fire D and F clients to focus on quality relationships. They discuss how AI tools like Juno have transformed their training process, turning mediocre preparers into efficient reviewers and helping new college graduates become productive much faster. Tony and Zach also dive into their tax planning success stories, including saving clients over 7 million dollars across 22 planning engagements in 2024. The Modern Tax Pros Podcast is brought to you by Juno, AI tax prep software built for tax pros who are sick of 60-hour weeks. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

    50 min
  8. Ep #1: The real ROI of automation in a tax practice (it’s not magic, it’s process)

    Feb 20

    Ep #1: The real ROI of automation in a tax practice (it’s not magic, it’s process)

    Dave Haase sits down with Brad Wooten, CPA and owner of a growing Orlando practice, to discuss the realities of building and scaling a tax-focused firm. Brad shares his journey from launching in 2019 with low fees and a take-any-client approach to developing a focused practice serving individual and S corporation clients through 3-tier value pricing. The conversation covers Brad's practical approach to staff development, moving his brother and sister from administrative roles into tax preparation and review positions without formal training programs. They explore the challenges of implementing AI technology in tax practices, including Brad's initial skepticism about Juno and how feedback-driven product development changed his perspective. Dave and Brad also discuss the importance of solid processes before automation, the economics of AI versus human staff, and why both believe AI will enhance rather than replace tax professionals. Key topics covered: [00:00] Intro [01:25] Building a Solo Practice from Scratch [03:49] 3 Tier Pricing Strategy Implementation [07:50] Growing Team with Family Members [11:07] Training Staff Without Formal Teaching [13:14] Tax Dome Automation Impact [14:05] Becoming the Review Bottleneck [16:41] Moving Staff from Preparer to Reviewer [18:17] Initial Juno Demo Feedback [19:32] Cost vs Human Labor Analysis [23:15] Tax Practice as Data Stream [24:32] 50% Margin Increase Breakdown [27:51] Schedule A Processing Challenges [30:16] Ideal Juno Implementation Strategy [32:00] Target Market for AI Tools [34:01] Data Training and Security Concerns [35:46] AI Limitations in Tax Prep A candid look at small firm growth, family staffing, and the practical realities of adopting new technology in tax practices. The Modern Tax Pros Podcast is brought to you by Juno, AI tax prep software built for tax pros who are sick of 60-hour weeks. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

    38 min
  9. Introducing the Modern Tax Pros Podcast

    Season 1 Trailer

    Introducing the Modern Tax Pros Podcast

    Dave Haase, Founder of Juno, reveals why the tax industry is decades behind in technology adoption and what it's costing both practitioners and clients. From 20-year-old software to manual data entry from image files, discover the inefficiencies that are keeping tax professionals trapped in outdated processes. Dave shares his journey from buying his first firm in 2015 to starting an AI automation company focused on modernizing tax preparation and review. Learn why the current technology landscape makes it harder for tax pros to work efficiently, get paid well for their expertise, and ultimately leads to burnout. This episode kicks off a series dedicated to improving processes, adopting new technology, and bringing the tax profession into the modern age. Whether you're a firm owner, work in a tax practice, or are involved in tax technology, this conversation explores the path forward for the industry. Key topics covered: [00:00] Intro [00:27] Why tax software remains 20 years outdated [00:40] Manual data entry costs clients more [00:54] Technology traps firm owners daily [01:10] Breaking free from inefficient processes [01:26] Moving beyond compliance to advisory services [01:39] Guest lineup spans firm owners to tech leaders [01:54] Community driven topic suggestions welcome Subscribe to Modern Tax Pros for insights on improving tax practice efficiency, adopting new technology, and transitioning to advisory services. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

    3 min

Trailer

About

Tax work is hard enough. The way we do it makes it harder. Modern Tax Pros is a podcast for firm owners and tax professionals who are tired of 60 hour weeks, manual workpapers, and emailing clients fifteen times to get the same documents. If you have ever double checked a PDF at midnight or felt trapped by software that is older than your staff, you will feel at home here. Hosted by Dave Haase, a CPA and firm owner who bought his first practice in 2015, this show is about improving the tools and processes of our trade. After stepping into ownership, Dave was struck by how much of the work was still manual. Twenty year old software. Data entry from scanned documents. Review systems built on personal checklists instead of shared workflows. The inefficiency is not just frustrating. It raises prices for clients, burns out teams, and keeps firm owners stuck in the grind. Each episode brings practical, tactical conversations about how to run a more modern tax firm. You will hear from firm owners, staff inside tax practices, operators rolling up firms, and people building technology in the space. Topics include tightening up prep and review, moving into advisory without blowing up capacity, improving training, and adopting new tools in a way that actually works in real practice life. This podcast is part of Modern Tax Pros by Juno. Juno is AI tax prep software built by Dave Haase, a CPA and tax firm owner. It helps with tax preparation and review by entering data from source documents, building workpapers, and checking for errors so you can spend more time using your judgment instead of retyping numbers. On the show, you will hear honest conversations about what is working, what is breaking, and how technology should support the human side of this profession. If you care about your clients, your team, and the future of your firm, this is a place to think out loud about how we make tax work better. Welcome to Modern Tax Pros. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Information

  • Creator
    Dave Haase, from Juno
  • Years Active
    2K
  • Episodes
    9
  • Rating
    Clean
  • Copyright
    © 2026 Juno
  • Show Website
    Modern Tax Pros

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