The CFO Project

Adam Lean

This is a podcast to help accountants, CPAs and bookkeepers escape what we call the accountant's trap - where the only way to get paid more is to work more hours or take on more low-value and high-demanding clients.On each episode we'll discuss strategies and tips that financial professionals can use to grow a practice of their dreams so they can finally escape the accountant's trap. This podcast is produced by TheCFOProject.com - a training company that trains accountants, CPAs and bookkeepers on how to build, launch and scale a CFO and business advisory service.Sign Up For Our Newsletter:https://thecfoproject.com/newsletter

  1. What Does AI Mean and How Does It Relate to Accounting

    AUG 26

    What Does AI Mean and How Does It Relate to Accounting

    Welcome to The CFO Project Podcast, where host Adam Lean dives deep into the challenges and opportunities facing today’s accountants, CFOs, and firm owners. Each episode is designed to help you break free from the “accountant’s trap” by exploring strategies, tools, and insights that fuel sustainable growth. If you want to scale your firm, elevate your client relationships, and build a thriving advisory practice, this podcast is your go-to resource. In this episode, Adam sits down with Chris Farrell, CEO of Liscio, to discuss how artificial intelligence is revolutionizing accounting and CFO advisory services. From eliminating tedious clerical work to enabling smarter client communication, Chris explains how AI will reshape firm efficiency and client value. They explore the difference between public and private AI models, the privacy risks firms need to watch out for, and how tools like semantic search and automated workflows can free accountants to focus on strategy and insight—not paperwork. If you’re curious about where the future of accounting is headed and how to position your firm for success, this conversation is a must-watch.

    26 min
  2. Why Vulnerable Leadership Is the Future of Accounting

    JUL 8

    Why Vulnerable Leadership Is the Future of Accounting

    Welcome to The CFO Project Podcast, where host Adam Lean explores the evolving world of CFO services and accounting leadership. Each episode features insights from professionals who are redefining what it means to grow an accounting practice, offer real advisory value, and build a firm that lasts. Whether you're a firm owner, CFO, or aspiring leader, this show will help you break free from outdated mindsets and thrive in today's competitive environment. In this powerful episode, Adam sits down with Randy Crabtree—partner at Tri-Merit and mental health advocate—to discuss how vulnerability in leadership is transforming accounting firms. Randy shares his personal journey, including how a life-changing stroke and years of mental health challenges led him to reevaluate his role and purpose. He explains how leaning into vulnerability as a leader not only sparked 12x firm growth, but also drastically improved team morale, innovation, and retention. This episode dives deep into how CFOs and firm owners can embrace authentic leadership to build sustainable, people-first organizations. Sign Up For Our Newsletter: https://thecfoproject.com/newsletter And check out The CFO Project's free training here: https://thecfoproject.com/start-a-cfo-service Learn More About The CFO Project: https://thecfoproject.com/

    22 min
  3. CFO Case Study: Rob Tokay

    JUN 10

    CFO Case Study: Rob Tokay

    In this special case study episode of The CFO Project Podcast, host Adam Lean sits down with Rob Tokay to explore how implementing CFO advisory services transformed his business. Rob shares his journey from traditional accounting work to building a more profitable and impactful practice using the CFO model. You'll hear firsthand how Rob shifted his approach, attracted higher-value clients, and created a business that’s both scalable and fulfilling. If you’re an accountant or bookkeeper wondering how CFO advisory services can work in the real world, this candid conversation offers the clarity and inspiration you need. At The CFO Project, we help financial professionals like you master the skills that truly matter—guiding business owners to generate consistent positive cash flow and grow their businesses. If you’re ready to stop doubting yourself and start making an impact, check out our free trainings and resources at TheCFOProject.com. And if you want hands-on mentorship, explore our Done-With-You program. Hit subscribe and turn on notifications so you don’t miss future videos, and let’s help more businesses succeed together! Sign Up For Our Newsletter: https://thecfoproject.com/newsletter And check out The CFO Project's free training here: https://thecfoproject.com/start-a-cfo-service Learn More About The CFO Project: https://thecfoproject.com/

    24 min
  4. Starting a CFO Advisory Practice vs. an Accounting or Bookkeeping Practice

    APR 15

    Starting a CFO Advisory Practice vs. an Accounting or Bookkeeping Practice

    On this episode of The CFO Project Podcast, Adam Lean and Jeff Prager dive into the key differences between launching a CFO advisory firm and starting a traditional accounting or bookkeeping business. While many professionals default to offering tax or bookkeeping services, they often overlook the more scalable and fulfilling opportunity of CFO advisory work. You'll discover why the skill sets, client relationships, and business models for advisory services offer greater long-term value—and how to avoid the common pitfalls that come with transactional work. If you're considering starting your own practice or want to transition into higher-value services, this episode is packed with insights to help you make the right choice. At The CFO Project, we help financial professionals like you master the skills that truly matter—guiding business owners to generate consistent positive cash flow and grow their businesses. If you’re ready to stop doubting yourself and start making an impact, check out our free trainings and resources at TheCFOProject.com. And if you want hands-on mentorship, explore our Done-With-You program. Hit subscribe and turn on notifications so you don’t miss future videos, and let’s help more businesses succeed together! Sign Up For Our Newsletter: https://thecfoproject.com/newsletter And check out The CFO Project's free training here: https://thecfoproject.com/start-a-cfo-service Learn More About The CFO Project: https://thecfoproject.com/

    29 min
  5. The 3 Specific Reasons our CFO Advisory Firm Was a Huge Success

    APR 1

    The 3 Specific Reasons our CFO Advisory Firm Was a Huge Success

    In this episode of the CFO Report, host Adam Lean sits down with Jeff Prager to reveal the three key reasons their CFO advisory firm achieved massive success. With years of experience guiding businesses toward financial clarity and profitability, Adam and Jeff break down the specific strategies that helped them stand out in a competitive market. Whether you're running an advisory firm or any business looking to scale, these insights will give you a framework for long-term success. Tune in as they discuss the importance of financial visibility, strategic forecasting, and advisory services that go beyond just bookkeeping. Jeff shares firsthand experiences and actionable takeaways that any business owner or CFO can implement right away. If you're looking to elevate your financial strategy and grow your firm, this is an episode you don’t want to miss! At The CFO Project, we help financial professionals like you master the skills that truly matter—guiding business owners to generate consistent positive cash flow and grow their businesses. If you’re ready to stop doubting yourself and start making an impact, check out our free trainings and resources at TheCFOProject.com. And if you want hands-on mentorship, explore our Done-With-You program. Hit subscribe and turn on notifications so you don’t miss future videos, and let’s help more businesses succeed together! Sign Up For Our Newsletter: https://thecfoproject.com/newsletter And check out The CFO Project's free training here: https://thecfoproject.com/start-a-cfo-service Learn More About The CFO Project: https://thecfoproject.com/

    28 min
  6. 8 Signs You're Earning Less Than You're Worth

    MAR 25

    8 Signs You're Earning Less Than You're Worth

    Are you working long hours but still feel like you're not earning what you're worth? In this episode of the CFO Project Podcast, hosts Adam Lean and Jeff Prager reveal the eight key signs that accountants and bookkeepers are undervaluing their services. From being trapped in a pricing war to offering services that clients see as a necessary evil, we break down the common pitfalls that keep financial professionals stuck in a cycle of low earnings and high stress. If you're ready to break free from these limitations and start earning what you're truly worth, this episode is a must-listen. Discover how shifting to an advisory model, rather than focusing solely on compliance work, can help you stand out in a crowded market, build lasting client relationships, and increase your revenue. Tune in now to learn how to take control of your financial career and escape the accountant’s trap. For more resources, visit TheCFOProject.com. Sign Up For Our Newsletter: https://thecfoproject.com/newsletter And check out The CFO Project's free training here: https://thecfoproject.com/start-a-cfo-service Learn More About The CFO Project: https://thecfoproject.com/

    26 min
  7. Top 6 Ways to Overcome Imposter Syndrome as a CFO Advisor

    MAR 4

    Top 6 Ways to Overcome Imposter Syndrome as a CFO Advisor

    Overcoming imposter syndrome is key to becoming a confident and successful CFO advisor. In this episode of the CFO Project Podcast, we break down six practical ways to overcome self-doubt, understand your value, and take action. Whether you're an accountant, bookkeeper, or aspiring CFO, this discussion will help you shift your mindset and build confidence in your expertise. Join hosts Adam Lean and Jeff as they share insights on why imposter syndrome is common among high achievers, how to effectively communicate your value to business owners, and why continuous learning is crucial for long-term success. If you've ever questioned your ability to offer CFO services, this episode is a must-listen. Visit TheCFOProject.com for more free resources and training. Sign Up For Our Newsletter: https://thecfoproject.com/newsletter And check out The CFO Project's free training here: https://thecfoproject.com/start-a-cfo-service Learn More About The CFO Project: https://thecfoproject.com/

    30 min
  8. The Softskills Needed to be a Great CFO Advisor

    FEB 18

    The Softskills Needed to be a Great CFO Advisor

    In this episode of the CFO Project Podcast, we dive into the essential soft skills every CFO advisor needs to succeed. While technical expertise like forecasting and budgeting are crucial, soft skills like empathy, resourcefulness, and active listening are what truly set top advisors apart. Jeff Prager, co-founder of the CFO Project, joins the conversation to discuss how these skills help CFO advisors better understand their clients, build trust, and provide real value to small business owners. We explore how curiosity, conviction, and a drive to constantly improve are key to helping clients achieve their business goals. CFO advisors who can relate to business owners, see challenges from their perspective, and provide insightful guidance are far more valuable than those who simply crunch numbers. If you’re looking to strengthen your role as a trusted advisor, this episode is packed with insights to help you stand out. Don't forget to sign up for our free weekly newsletter at TheCFOProject.com/newsletter for more tips! Sign Up For Our Newsletter: https://thecfoproject.com/newsletter And check out The CFO Project's free training here: https://thecfoproject.com/start-a-cfo-service Learn More About The CFO Project: https://thecfoproject.com/

    31 min
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Ratings & Reviews

4.5
out of 5
10 Ratings

About

This is a podcast to help accountants, CPAs and bookkeepers escape what we call the accountant's trap - where the only way to get paid more is to work more hours or take on more low-value and high-demanding clients.On each episode we'll discuss strategies and tips that financial professionals can use to grow a practice of their dreams so they can finally escape the accountant's trap. This podcast is produced by TheCFOProject.com - a training company that trains accountants, CPAs and bookkeepers on how to build, launch and scale a CFO and business advisory service.Sign Up For Our Newsletter:https://thecfoproject.com/newsletter

Information

  • Creator
    Adam Lean
  • Years Active
    2023 - 2025
  • Episodes
    81
  • Rating
    Clean
  • Copyright
    © 2025 The CFO Project
  • Show Website
    The CFO Project

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