Who's Really the BOSS?

Marcus Dillon, Rachel Dillon
Who's Really the BOSS?

"Who's Really the BOSS?" highlights the joys and challenges of running a CPA firm with your spouse or family. From hiring and terminating to improving capacity, cash flow, and culture, our conversations cover leadership, operations, and current accounting industry challenges. Our mission is to strengthen families and accounting firms by helping listeners avoid the mistakes we have made, so they can lead and live happily ever after.

  1. 4D AGO

    Two Years, Two Offices, and 177 Clients Later: How Two Partners Left to Build Their Dream Firm

    After spending 20 and 30 years respectively at their previous firm, Anna and Gwen made the leap to start Hodges and Hergenrader in October 2023, and the results speak for themselves. In just 18 months, they've built a thriving practice with 177 new clients, $1.7M in revenue, and a team that doesn't work overtime during tax season. They join Rachel and Marcus to share the real story behind their dining room table planning sessions, why they chose to open two offices from the start, and how focusing on monthly services instead of just tax returns transformed their approach to client relationships. Connect with Anna and Gwenhttps://www.handhadvisors.com/ Introducing Collective by DBAhttps://collective.cpahttps://www.linkedin.com/company/collectivebydba Learn More About Dillon Business Advisorshttps://www.dillonadvisors.comhttps://www.linkedin.com/company/dillonbusinessadvisors Sign up to get free CPE for listening to this podcasthttps://earmarkcpe.com Download the Earmark CPE AppApple: https://apps.apple.com/us/app/earmark-cpe/id1562599728 Android: https://play.google.com/store/apps/details?id=com.earmarkcpe.app (00:00) - Welcome to Who's Really the Boss (01:50) - Personal Backgrounds of Gwen and Anna (05:13) - Best Advice Ever Received (07:55) - Starting a New Firm: Challenges and Successes (08:39) - Firm Operations and Client Services (15:57) - Team Building and Hiring Practices (21:00) - Early Days and Setting Up the Firm (30:30) - Securing Office Space in Raleigh and Wilmington (33:19) - Balancing Work and Personal Life (35:45) - Reflecting on Business Challenges (37:47) - Learning from Experience (46:57) - Future Goals and Initiatives (50:10) - The Value of Community Support (54:23) - Final Thoughts and Gratitude

    59 min

  2. JUN 23

    Mid-Year Check-In: Goals, Growth, and Getting Away

    Rachel and Marcus dive into planning their upcoming Mexico retreat for all 26 Dillon Business Advisors team members and spouses. After surveying their team using Patrick Lencioni's Five Dysfunctions framework, they discovered areas for improvement in conflict resolution and peer accountability that will shape their four-day agenda. The conversation covers everything from budget-friendly international retreats to turning team weaknesses into connection opportunities. Introducing Collective by DBAhttps://collective.cpahttps://www.linkedin.com/company/collectivebydba Learn More About Dillon Business Advisorshttps://www.dillonadvisors.comhttps://www.linkedin.com/company/dillonbusinessadvisors Sign up to get free CPE for listening to this podcasthttps://earmarkcpe.com Download the Earmark CPE AppApple: https://apps.apple.com/us/app/earmark-cpe/id1562599728 Android: https://play.google.com/store/apps/details?id=com.earmarkcpe.app (00:00) - Welcome to Who's Really the Boss (05:15) - Summer Plans and Team Retreats (06:22) - Planning the Mexico Retreat (09:03) - Team Building and Improvement Initiatives (16:05) - Five Dysfunctions of a Team (26:32) - Planning the Retreat Agenda (27:58) - Team Transparency and Goals (30:09) - Mid-Year Check-In (34:55) - Turning Conflict into Connections (39:52) - Cell Phone Security (41:37) - Client Categorization (46:09) - Permission for Peer Accountability (48:13) - Team Building Activities (50:48) - Final Thoughts and Logistics

    52 min

  3. JUN 9

    The Real Story Behind Accounting Firm Valuations

    The traditional 1X revenue multiple for accounting firms is becoming a relic of the past, with some firms now commanding 4-6X EBITDA valuations. This episode explores the difference between selling a client block versus a true business, the rise of private equity platforms, and what really drives firm valuations in today's market. From acquihires to equity rolls, Marcus and Rachel break down deal structures, share real examples, and discuss what sellers need to watch out for in purchase agreements. Introducing Collective by DBAhttps://collective.cpahttps://www.linkedin.com/company/collectivebydba Learn More About Dillon Business Advisorshttps://www.dillonadvisors.comhttps://www.linkedin.com/company/dillonbusinessadvisors Sign up to get free CPE for listening to this podcasthttps://earmarkcpe.com Download the Earmark CPE AppApple: https://apps.apple.com/us/app/earmark-cpe/id1562599728 Android: https://play.google.com/store/apps/details?id=com.earmarkcpe.app (00:00) - Welcome to Who's Really the Boss (00:34) - Reflecting on Milestones and Emotions (01:57) - Transition to Empty Nesters (02:07) - Celebrating Life's Seasons and Looking Ahead (03:14) - Discussion on Mergers and Acquisitions (M&A) (06:23) - Valuation and Growth Strategies (08:14) - Challenges and Opportunities in Acquisitions (09:38) - Owner's Role Post-Acquisition (21:03) - Employment Contracts and Budget Considerations (25:25) - Building Sustainable Businesses (27:29) - Understanding Firm Valuation and Cash Components (29:31) - Equity Roll and Future Growth Potential (32:31) - Private Equity and Strategic Buyers (35:28) - Marketing and Sales Considerations for Selling (37:03) - Navigating Deal Terms and Guarantees (38:23) - Organic Growth and EBITDA Challenges (40:34) - Acquisition Strategies and Personal Experiences (44:35) - Building Relationships and Learning from Others (49:36) - Final Thoughts and Encouragement

    53 min

  4. MAY 26

    From RECHARGE to Reality: Accounting Firm Growth Strategies

    Rachel and Marcus recap their recent RECHARGE conference, an in-person event for accounting firm owners that fostered deep discussions on KPIs, firm valuations, and incentivizing team performance. They highlight key takeaways including how current M&A deals are structured, the importance of optimizing Google Business Profiles, and practical automation tools that attendees implemented within days. The hosts emphasize the value of prioritizing one or two meaningful improvements rather than attempting everything at once, reflecting on how the collective wisdom of the community continues to shape growth for everyone involved. Introducing Collective by DBAhttps://collective.cpahttps://www.linkedin.com/company/collectivebydba Learn More About Dillon Business Advisorshttps://www.dillonadvisors.comhttps://www.linkedin.com/company/dillonbusinessadvisors Sign up to get free CPE for listening to this podcasthttps://earmarkcpe.com Download the Earmark CPE AppApple: https://apps.apple.com/us/app/earmark-cpe/id1562599728 Android: https://play.google.com/store/apps/details?id=com.earmarkcpe.app (00:00) - Welcome to Who's Really the Boss (01:04) - Recap of Recent Events and Busy Schedules (02:40) - The Impact of Recharge Conference (05:14) - Day 1 Highlights: Welcome Reception (08:38) - Day 2 Highlights: Breakfast and Morning Sessions (16:55) - Key Performance Indicators (KPIs) Session (23:04) - Mergers and Acquisitions (M&A) Insights (30:56) - Understanding Business Valuation (32:22) - Automation AI, and IT (43:39) - Marketing Strategies and Google Business Profiles (50:38) - Team Incentives and Performance (53:53) - Recruiting and Hiring Best Practices (56:41) - Final Recap and Future Plans

    1h 1m

  5. MAY 12

    The Mid-Tax Season Acquisition: Lessons from the First 70 Days

    Rachel and Marcus are joined by Amy McCarty to discuss DBA's recent acquisition of a St. Louis-based accounting firm on January 31st - right in the middle of tax season. They explore the challenges of integrating different technology systems, managing team expectations, and maintaining client relationships during this critical period. Despite the timing challenges, the team shares how they've already recouped their down payment in revenue and gained valuable insights about client service, team integration, and technology transitions that will shape their future growth strategies. Introducing Collective by DBAhttps://collective.cpahttps://www.linkedin.com/company/collectivebydba Learn More About Dillon Business Advisorshttps://www.dillonadvisors.comhttps://www.linkedin.com/company/dillonbusinessadvisors Sign up to get free CPE for listening to this podcasthttps://earmarkcpe.com Download the Earmark CPE AppApple: https://apps.apple.com/us/app/earmark-cpe/id1562599728 Android: https://play.google.com/store/apps/details?id=com.earmarkcpe.app (00:00) - Welcome to Who's Really the Boss (01:15) - Amy's Background and Role at DBA (05:02) - Insights and Advice from Amy (07:45) - Acquisition Update: Overview and Initial Steps (09:28) - Acquisition Details and Integration Challenges (13:51) - Why We Did This During Tax Season (23:54) - Technology Transition and Future Plans (32:03) - Client Communication and Software Integration (34:40) - Team Member Updates and Roles (36:03) - Challenges and Reflections (42:10) - Client Feedback and Retention (45:19) - Biggest Challenges and Wins (53:14) - Aligning with Company Values (56:32) - Final Thoughts and Future Plans

    1h 2m

  6. APR 28

    Mastering Improvement Season

    Rachel and Marcus discuss the critical period between April 15th and August 15th, which they call "improvement season" for accounting firms. They outline a structured approach to maximizing this time, starting with intentional rest and recovery, collecting team feedback while experiences are fresh, refocusing on core values, and refining processes and client relationships. They emphasize making hard decisions early during this period to test changes during extension season and set the firm up for greater success in the following year.Get Our Free Improvement Season Resource Guidehttps://collective.cpa/improvement-season-download Introducing Collective by DBAhttps://collective.cpahttps://www.linkedin.com/company/collectivebydba Learn More About Dillon Business Advisorshttps://www.dillonadvisors.comhttps://www.linkedin.com/company/dillonbusinessadvisors Sign up to get free CPE for listening to this podcasthttps://earmarkcpe.com Download the Earmark CPE AppApple: https://apps.apple.com/us/app/earmark-cpe/id1562599728 Android: https://play.google.com/store/apps/details?id=com.earmarkcpe.app (00:28) - Welcome and Family Updates (06:07) - Dylan Business Advisors: Improvement Season (10:49) - Rest and Recharge After Tax Season (21:39) - Collecting Feedback and Celebrating Team (27:08) - Team Incentives and Remote Work Challenges (29:44) - Transforming Team Structure and Celebrations (32:21) - Planning Retreats and Celebrations Mindfully (35:24) - Importance of Improvement Season (40:17) - Making Hard Decisions for Team and Client Management (48:02) - Refining Processes and Team Structure (52:19) - Improvement Season Guide and Final Thoughts

    54 min

  7. APR 14

    Beyond the Bottleneck: Creating Sustainable Capacity in Your Accounting Firm

    Rachel and Marcus discuss the practical steps they took at Dylan Business Advisors to move from 70-hour workweeks to a sustainable 36-hour workweek year-round. They explore how evaluating and exiting non-ideal clients, refining service offerings, and implementing their "team of three" structure created significant capacity in their firm. The conversation covers both immediate relief strategies for overwhelmed firm owners and long-term structural changes that transformed their business while increasing profitability Introducing Collective by DBAhttps://collective.cpahttps://www.linkedin.com/company/collectivebydba Learn More About Dillon Business Advisorshttps://www.dillonadvisors.comhttps://www.linkedin.com/company/dillonbusinessadvisors Sign up to get free CPE for listening to this podcasthttps://earmarkcpe.com Download the Earmark CPE AppApple: https://apps.apple.com/us/app/earmark-cpe/id1562599728 Android: https://play.google.com/store/apps/details?id=com.earmarkcpe.app (00:00) - Welcome to Who's Really the Boss (00:51) - Dylan Business Advisors Firm Update (01:53) - Acquisition of Remote Accounting Firm (02:20) - Challenges and Adjustments Post-Acquisition (04:53) - The Bottleneck Issue in Small Accounting Firms (08:39) - Team Structure and Efficiency Improvements (12:34) - Capacity Management and Client Prioritization (16:02) - Implementing Changes and Overcoming Challenges (19:27) - Reflecting on Progress and Future Plans (29:18) - Balancing Work and Personal Life (31:03) - Identifying Ideal Clients and Setting Boundaries (34:17) - Team Collaboration and Recap (36:03) - Client Bottlenecks and Solutions (46:06) - Exiting Non-Ideal Clients (52:43) - Evaluating Service Lines (57:24) - Final Thoughts and Resources

    59 min

  8. MAR 31

    From Bottleneck to Breakthrough: Reorganizing Your Accounting Firm

    Rachel and Marcus discuss the common problem of owners becoming the bottleneck in accounting firms under $3 million. They share their experience implementing their "Team of Three" structure to delegate work effectively, improve client service, and increase capacity without working more hours. They provide practical strategies for identifying your firm's constraints and restructuring your team to break through capacity limitations. Introducing Collective by DBAhttps://collective.cpahttps://www.linkedin.com/company/collectivebydba Learn More About Dillon Business Advisorshttps://www.dillonadvisors.comhttps://www.linkedin.com/company/dillonbusinessadvisors Sign up to get free CPE for listening to this podcasthttps://earmarkcpe.com Download the Earmark CPE AppApple: https://apps.apple.com/us/app/earmark-cpe/id1562599728 Android: https://play.google.com/store/apps/details?id=com.earmarkcpe.app (00:00) - Welcome to Who's Really the Boss (06:27) - Main Topic Introduction: Identifying Bottlenecks in Accounting Firms (07:32) - Common Bottlenecks: The Owner's Role (08:51) - Delegation and Team Structure (18:30) - Reorganizing the Team: Overcoming Capacity Issues (21:10) - Team Structure and Collaboration (24:50) - Implementing the Team of Three (29:36) - Challenges and Benefits of Role Allocation (32:34) - Delegation and Capacity Management (37:41) - Transitioning and Elevating Roles (45:26) - Final Thoughts and Recommendations

    48 min
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Ratings & Reviews

4.6
out of 5
11 Ratings

About

"Who's Really the BOSS?" highlights the joys and challenges of running a CPA firm with your spouse or family. From hiring and terminating to improving capacity, cash flow, and culture, our conversations cover leadership, operations, and current accounting industry challenges. Our mission is to strengthen families and accounting firms by helping listeners avoid the mistakes we have made, so they can lead and live happily ever after.

Information

  • Creator
    Marcus Dillon, Rachel Dillon
  • Years Active
    2022 - 2025
  • Episodes
    137
  • Rating
    Clean
  • Copyright
    © Copyright Marcus Dillon
  • Show Website
    Who's Really the BOSS?

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