Creative Agency Success Show

Why Most Webinars Fail to Convert and the Two-Step Signup Fix That Changes Everything with Logan Lyles

Tue, 21 Apr 2026 11:00:00 -0500

You put in the work to plan a webinar and still walk away with no sales calls booked, no pipeline, and no clear path forward.

In this episode, Logan Lyles, Founder of DemandShift, shares his proven webinar strategy for B2B service-based businesses that want to generate leads, book sales calls, and build pipelines without turning their webinars into a hard sell. You’ll learn how to fix the two biggest webinar mistakes, the registration rut and the conversion cliff, and how a two-step signup process helped Logan 5X his conversion rate from webinar registrants to booked sales calls. This episode gives you a clear, actionable framework for turning your next webinar into a real lead generation engine.

Key takeaways:

Avoid the two webinar killers. Knowing which problem you have is the first step to fixing your webinar strategy.
Use the two-step signup process to capture leads before the event. The two-step signup process captures interest right at registration.
Make your CTA outcome-based, not ask-based. Framing your call to action around a clear outcome dramatically improves results.
Design your survey to qualify and disqualify leads. Post-registration survey separates your ideal clients from those who aren’t ready yet.
Balance brand and demand in every webinar. Your webinar should educate and build trust, but it also needs to drive pipeline.

Tune in now to ▶️The Pricing Strategy That Unlocks Real Profit Growth with Logan Lyles.

Find more podcast episodes on our website: anderscpa.com/learn/podcasts/

Episode resources:

● Anders Virtual CFO website: anderscpa.com

● Love our content? Sign up for our newsletter: https://anderscpa.com/learn/

● Check out the Virtual CFO Playbook Course:

https://anderscpa.com/virtual-cfo-services/vcfo-playbook/

Quotes

-Logan Lyles: “If your CTA and the prompt you’re giving someone to take the next step is only during the live event, you’re missing 65% of your swings.”

-Jody Grunden: "Webinars can educate your audience while also creating real opportunities for leads and clients."

Logan Lyles is the Founder of DemandShift, where he helps B2B brands turn underperforming webinars into consistent revenue drivers. After struggling with low conversions early in his career, Logan rebuilt his approach and increased webinar-driven sales calls by 5X. Today, he specializes in aligning content, offers, and conversion strategy to drive real pipeline. His Webinar Fast Track framework focuses on creating clear next steps that translate attention into profit.

Website: https://demandshift.co/ , https://demandshift.co/prompt

LI: https://www.linkedin.com/in/loganlyles/

FB: https://www.facebook.com/logan.lyles.96/

DemandShift

LI: https://www.linkedin.com/company/demandshift/

The Creative Agency Success Show helps service-based business owners master the financial side of growth. Hosted by Jamie Nau, Director of Virtual CFO Services/

How to Systemize Your Business and Multiply Impact with Kenny Harper

Tue, 07 Apr 2026 11:00:00 -0500

When your processes are structured and your team knows what to do next, you gain time and improve performance.

In this episode, Kenny Harper, Growth Coach at Growth Amplifiers, shares how to systemize your business, simplify operations, and multiply impact using scalable systems, repeatable processes, and a proven framework. You’ll learn how to move from custom work to standardized workflows, shift from service provider to trusted advisor, improve client relationships, build a coaching culture, and scale your service-based business without losing control or quality.

You’ll also hear how Jody was featured on the Growth Amplifiers podcast, where deeper insights on building and scaling a successful firm are shared.

Key takeaways:

Shift from service provider to advisor. Focusing on transformation increases value and improves client retention.
Build a coaching culture inside your team. Encouraging questions and solutions reduces bottlenecks.
Put the right people in the right roles. Aligning strengths with responsibilities leads to better performance.
Follow a clear system for scaling. From vision to diagnosis, each step builds consistency and growth.
Co-create solutions with clients. Working together to choose the best path leads to better decisions.

Tune in the full episode of ▶️How to Systemize Your Business and Multiply Impact with Kenny Harper.

Find more podcast episodes on our website: anderscpa.com/learn/podcasts/

Episode resources:

● Anders Virtual CFO website: anderscpa.com

● Love our content? Sign up for our newsletter: https://anderscpa.com/learn/

● Check out the Virtual CFO Playbook Course:

https://anderscpa.com/virtual-cfo-services/vcfo-playbook/

Quotes

-Kenny Harper: “A clear, documented plan strengthens both execution and client alignment."

-Jody Grunden: "Scale comes from systemizing most of your work while keeping flexibility where it matters."

Kenny Harper is a Growth Coach at Growth Amplifiers, helping service-based business owners systemize their operations and scale without burnout. Drawing from his experience building and running a marketing agency, Kenny now guides leaders to simplify complexity and focus on what truly drives impact. Through his Amplified Growth System, he helps firms align vision, team, and execution to create consistent, scalable results.

Website: https://kennyharper.rocks/

LI: https://www.linkedin.com/in/kennyharper/

FB: https://www.facebook.com/kenny.w.harper/

IG: https://www.instagram.com/kennywharper/

X: https://x.com/KennywHarper

Growth Amplifiers

LI: https://www.linkedin.com/company/growthamplifiers/

The Creative Agency Success Show helps service-based business owners master the financial side of growth. Hosted by Jamie Nau, Director of Virtual CFO Services/ Virtual

Why Most Service Businesses Struggle to Grow Profitably with Al Zdenek

Tue, 24 Mar 2026 11:00:00 -0500

Growth can feel lighter when your business starts working with you, not against you.

In this episode, Al Zdenek, Executive Chair of CakeClub, breaks down why most service-based businesses struggle with profitability, cash flow management, financial planning, and sustainable growth. You learn how to manage cash flow, build cash reserves, improve pricing, make better financial decisions, and align your business goals with your personal financial goals. The focus is on profit strategy, cash flow systems, financial clarity, business growth, and building a service business that supports your lifestyle and long-term wealth.

Key takeaways:

Cash flow is the foundation of survival. Most businesses fail because they do not track or manage cash flow properly.
Breaking even is not enough. Break-even as covering expenses, paying yourself, and covering taxes.
Build strong cash reserves and backup plans. Having 2 to 6 months access to lines of credit can protect your business during uncertainty.
Pay yourself and diversify. Taking money out of your business reduces risk and increases long-term security.
Use other people’s money strategically. Partnerships, private funding, and creative financing can support growth without draining your cash.

Tune in to the full episode of ▶️ Why Most Service Businesses Struggle to Grow Profitably with Al Zdenek.

Find more podcast episodes on our website: anderscpa.com/learn/podcasts/

Episode resources:

● Anders Virtual CFO website: anderscpa.com

● Love our content? Sign up for our newsletter: https://anderscpa.com/learn/

● Check out the Virtual CFO Playbook Course:

https://anderscpa.com/virtual-cfo-services/vcfo-playbook/

Quotes

-Al Zdenek: "Breaking even means covering expenses, paying yourself, handling taxes, and saving for the future."

-Jamie Nau: "Cash is the first thing we look at. Understanding reserves is critical for every business."

Al Zdenek is the Executive Chair of CakeClub and a seasoned entrepreneur with over 40 years of experience in wealth management and business growth. He is the bestselling author of Master Your Cash Flow and Master Your Business Cash Flow, where he teaches how to grow profitable businesses while living the life you want now.

Website: https://alzdenek.com/

LI: https://www.linkedin.com/in/albertjzdenek/

FB: https://www.facebook.com/albertjzdenek/

X: https://x.com/alzdenek

YT: https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCXCYeD34e-PybZQHwIvmLCA

CakeClub

Website: https://www.cakeclubapp.com/

FB: https://www.facebook.com/people/Cakeclub/61571930199558/

LI: https://www.linkedin.com/company/cakeclubapp/

IG:

How AI Can Give You Back 80% of Your Time with Greg Boone

Tue, 17 Mar 2026 11:00:00 -0500

Time is one of the most valuable assets in a service-based business. Yet many owners and teams spend most of their week searching for information, copying data, formatting documents.

In this episode, Greg Boone, CEO at Walk West, explains how artificial intelligence, AI tools, automation, and agent workflows can give business owners back nearly 80% of their time. You learn how AI transforms marketing, consulting, operations, and knowledge work by reducing manual work, improving research, accelerating analysis, and helping teams move faster with better insights. The conversation focuses on AI adoption, AI strategy, productivity, marketing technology, data analysis, AI agents, and practical ways to integrate AI into everyday business workflows.

Key takeaways:

AI can eliminate massive time waste. Explains how knowledge workers spend 50–60% of their week searching for information.
You can reclaim up to 80% of administrative work. AI can complete weeks of work in minutes by automating research and analysis.
AI works best as a thinking partner. Using AI to instruct, analyze data, generate ideas, and support decision making.
AI reveals insights hidden in your data. Businesses can analyze meeting transcripts, reports, and unstructured data.
Training matters for AI adoption. Without guidance, employees may misuse tools or rely on basic features, leaving most of AI’s real value unused.

Tune in to the full episode of ▶️How AI Can Give You Back 80% of Your Time with Greg Boone.

Find more podcast episodes on our website: anderscpa.com/learn/podcasts/

Episode resources:

● Anders Virtual CFO by Anders website: anderscpa.com

● Love our content? Sign up for our newsletter: https://anderscpa.com/learn/

● Check out the Virtual CFO Playbook Course:

https://anderscpa.com/virtual-cfo-services/vcfo-playbook/

Quotes

-Greg Boone: "We get hyper-focused on the process of how we do things. AI doesn’t care about your process—it only cares about the outcome.”

-Jody Grunden: "Most firms struggle with growth because they rely on habits that worked when the company was smaller."

Greg Boone is the CEO of Walk West and a technology leader known for building high-performing teams that drive digital transformation. With decades of experience across leadership roles from director to CEO and advisor, Greg champions a people-first approach to business and innovation. His philosophy is simple: build great people first, and they will build a great company. Greg has led teams that served major brands including Charter, Panera Bread, Nascar, and Le Creuset while maintaining exceptional client loyalty. Today, he focuses on helping organizations leverage technology and AI to work smarter, unlock productivity, and give leaders back valuable time.

LI: https://www.linkedin.com/in/gregboone/

IG: https://www.instagram.com/greg.boone/

Walk West

Website: https://walkwest.com/

FB: https://www.facebook.com/WalkWest

LI: https://www.linkedin.com/company/

Why Half Your Marketing Budget Feels Wasted (And How to Fix It) with Jeff Greenfield

Tue, 24 Feb 2026 11:00:00 -0600

When leads feel inconsistent and results do not match the spend, the problem is rarely effort. The problem is visibility, measurement, and knowing what actually drives growth.

In this episode, Jeff Greenfield, CEO of Provalytics, breaks down why so many service-based businesses feel like half their marketing budget is wasted. You hear clear explanations around marketing measurement, attribution, GA4 limits, impressions versus clicks, full-funnel marketing, privacy-driven data loss, AI-driven buyer journeys, and how attention, awareness, and timing impact revenue. The focus stays on fixing what feels broken so your marketing spend works harder.

Key takeaways:

Clicks do not tell the full story. Last-click attribution hides the real impact of awareness, impressions, and upper-funnel marketing.
Attention comes before conversion. You learn how marketing dollars first create attention and awareness before leads.
GA4 shows behavior, not influence. Understanding what Google Analytics actually measures helps prevent bad budget decisions.
Impressions matter more than most teams think. Tracking impressions over time reveals patterns that clicks alone will never show.
Better measurement protects profit. Clear attribution helps you invest in the channels that truly move revenue.

Tune in to the full episode of ▶️Why Half Your Marketing Budget Feels Wasted (And How to Fix It) with Jeff Greenfield.

Find more podcast episodes on our website: anderscpa.com/learn/podcasts/

Episode resources:

● Anders Virtual CFO by Anders website: anderscpa.com

● Love our content? Sign up for our newsletter: https://anderscpa.com/learn/

● Check out the Virtual CFO Playbook Course:

https://anderscpa.com/virtual-cfo-services/vcfo-playbook/

Quotes

-Jeff Greenfield: "Most marketing decisions break because finance and marketing are looking at two different sets of numbers."

-Jody Grunden: "Business owners worry that focusing on one offer might hurt their brand but clarity often matters more than variety."

Jeff Greenfield is the CEO of Provalytics, a privacy-first attribution platform helping marketers prove impact in a post-cookie world. With over two decades in the industry, Jeff built one of the first multi-touch attribution (MTA) platforms, driving 15–25% ROI growth for major global brands. As shifting privacy laws upended traditional tracking, he saw the need for AI-driven, compliant solutions and launched Provalytics in 2022. Today, his team empowers marketers to make smarter budget decisions with accurate, future-proof insights.

Website: https://provalytics.com/

LI: https://www.linkedin.com/in/jeffgreenfield/

https://www.linkedin.com/company/provalytics/

The Creative Agency Success Show helps service-based business owners master the financial side of growth. Hosted by Jamie Nau, Director of Virtual CFO Services/ Virtual CFO, and Jody Grunden, Partner and Virtual CFO Practice Leader at Anders CPAs + Advisors, the podcast dives into essential financial strategies for scaling creative agencies.

Website:

Stop Carrying the Weight Alone: Build Systems That Free You with Steven Ness

Tue, 10 Feb 2026 11:00:00 -0600

A well-built service business creates momentum instead of pressure. With the right systems in place, you allow growth to happen without burning out.

In this episode, Steven Ness, founder of Lighting the Way Leadership, explains how business owners can stop carrying the weight alone by building leadership systems, operational structure, and clear processes. The focus stays on delegation, accountability, financial clarity, team alignment, and systems that save time, energy, and money while supporting sustainable growth.

Key takeaways:

Systems create freedom. Documented processes and repeatable systems give you back control of your time.
Leadership starts with you. You learn why personal accountability at the top sets the tone for results across the entire business.
Right people in the right seats. Seat ownership helps teams perform better without constant oversight.
Delegation without abdication. Clear expectations allow you to step back without losing quality or momentum.
Build a business that works without you. Systems reduce owner dependency so the company can grow.

Find more podcast episodes on our website: anderscpa.com/learn/podcasts/

Episode resources:

● Anders Virtual CFO by Anders website: anderscpa.com

● Love our content? Sign up for our newsletter: https://anderscpa.com/learn/

● Check out the Virtual CFO Playbook Course:

https://anderscpa.com/virtual-cfo-services/vcfo-playbook/

Quotes

-Steven Ness: "Systems save sanity, time, energy, and money. When you use them well, you stop making desperate decisions."

-Jody Grunden: "Most leaders brush it off until they’re asked to look at the impact they’re carrying home."

Steven Ness is the founder of Lighting the Way Leadership, where he helps leaders cut through business chaos with faith, structure, and a dose of tough love. With deep expertise in operations, training, B2B, retail, and sales, Steven equips teams to lead with clarity and purpose. His approach blends practical systems with people-first values reimagining business as People to People, not Business to Business. As a seasoned consultant, Steven is known for empowering leaders to grow personally and professionally. He’s on a mission to help organizations thrive through authentic leadership and strategic alignment.

Website: https://lightingthewayleadership.com/
Email: Steven@lightingthewayleadership.com

LI: https://www.linkedin.com/in/stevenness/

IG: https://www.instagram.com/steven_ness_leadership/

X: https://x.com/StevenNessCoach

FB: https://www.facebook.com/people/Lighting-the-Way-Leadership/61568990434856/

How to Protect Your Margins Before the Sale Begins with Albert Banks

Tue, 27 Jan 2026 11:00:00 -0600

Many service-based business owners win deals, deliver great work, and still struggle with margins.

In this episode, Albert Banks breaks down how service-based businesses can protect margins before work even starts. You get a clear look at pricing strategy, value-based pricing, project profitability, cost awareness, negotiation tactics, and sales frameworks that help agencies and professional services firms grow revenue without burning out their teams. The focus stays on setting every project up for success from day one.

Key takeaways:

Use floor, table, and ceiling pricing. Learn how to set a pricing range that protects profit while giving flexibility in sales conversations.
Move beyond hourly billing. Value-based and fixed-fee pricing create better alignment with clients.
Anchor pricing with options. Offering multiple pricing options reframes the decision.
Sell expertise, not tasks. Leading with discovery and strategy positions you as the expert.
Know your true costs. Understanding fully loaded costs is non-negotiable if you want predictable margins.

Tune into the full episode of ▶️How to Protect Your Margins Before the Sale Begins.

Find more podcast episodes on our website: anderscpa.com/learn/podcasts/

Episode resources:

● Anders Virtual CFO by Anders website: anderscpa.com

● Love our content? Sign up for our newsletter: https://anderscpa.com/learn/

● Check out the Virtual CFO Playbook Course:

https://anderscpa.com/virtual-cfo-services/vcfo-playbook/

Quotes

-Albert Banks: "Strong margins start before the project begins. Preventative decisions in pricing and scoping protect profitability."

-Jody Grunden: "When you know your data, time, cost, and team mix, you can price consistently and still hit your margin targets."

Albert Banks is a seasoned agency founder turned consultant, helping businesses boost profitability through strategic pricing, operations, and sales frameworks. With over two decades of experience—including growing, merging, and selling his own agency—Albert now coaches leaders on setting value-based pricing and uncovering hidden risks before a deal even starts. He champions a diagnostic-first approach, ensuring clients position themselves as trusted experts rather than vendors. Albert’s practical systems help agencies increase margins and close better-fit clients.
LI: https://www.linkedin.com/in/albertbanks/

Website: https://www.buzzsprout.com/2458889

FB: https://www.facebook.com/vcfobyanders

LI: https://www.linkedin.com/company/vcfobyanders/

IG: https://www.

Stop Thinking Like a Freelancer—Start Earning Like a Founder with Jesse Gilmore

Mon, 22 Dec 2025 11:00:00 -0600

Run your agency with clarity, confidence, and control. Many creative and marketing agency owners are closer to real growth than they realize.

In this episode, Jesse Gilmore, CEO and founder of Niche in Control, breaks down the mindset and structure shifts that agency owners must make to achieve freedom, scalability, and financial success. He shares how to move from being the doer to being the leader, why perfectionism is holding you back, and how to build a business that thrives without you working 80-hour weeks.

Key takeaways:

The 80/20 rule for creativity. Learn how to systemize 80% of your operations so you can focus your creativity on the 20%.
How to overcome perfectionism. Perfectionism keeps agency owners trapped.
Power of time audits. Discover how tracking your time for just seven days can expose hidden inefficiencies.
Value-based pricing beats hourly billing. Learn how value-based pricing helps agencies earn more while working less.
How to go upmarket strategically. Agencies must move toward strategy-based offers and premium clients to stay competitive.

Tune into the episode of ▶️Stop Thinking Like a Freelancer—Start Earning Like a Founder.

Find more podcast episodes on our website: anderscpa.com/learn/podcasts/

Episode resources:

● Anders Virtual CFO by Anders website: anderscpa.com

● Love our content? Sign up for our newsletter: https://anderscpa.com/learn/

● Check out the Virtual CFO Playbook Course:

https://anderscpa.com/virtual-cfo-services/vcfo-playbook/

Quotes

-Jesse Gilmore: "Tracking time reveals hidden inefficiencies. Once you see where time really goes, you can start eliminating, automating, and delegating effectively."

-Jamie Nau: "An outside perspective helps agencies see what truly sets them apart, what you think is your strength might not be what clients value most."

Jesse Gilmore is the CEO and founder of Niche in Control, where he helps full-service creative and marketing agency owners scale their businesses while reclaiming their time and freedom. Through his Leverage for Growth program, Jesse guides agency leaders from being hands-on hustlers to confident CEOs who build scalable systems, attract high-value clients, and lead empowered teams. His proven methods have helped countless agency owners double revenue, increase profit margins, and reduce work hours all without sacrificing quality or balance.

Website: https://www.nicheincontrol.com/

FB: https://www.facebook.com/NicheInControl

LI: https://www.linkedin.com/in/jessepgilmore/

https://www.linkedin.com/company/niche-in-control/

IG: https://www.instagram.com/niche.in.control/

X: https://x.com/ControlNiche

TitTok: https://www.tiktok.com/@nicheincontrol &

Why Every Business Owner Should Think Like a Forensic Accountant with Clay Kniepmann

Mon, 03 Nov 2025 11:00:00 -0600

As a business owner, you may trust your team, but that trust can blind you to the quiet financial risks inside your business.

In this episode of The Creative Agency Success Show, we talk with Clay Kniepmann, manager in Forensic and Litigation at Anders, to share practical tips on balancing trust and control and how you can use simple steps to strengthen your internal processes.

Key Takeaways:

Watch for Red Flags: Delayed reports and lifestyle mismatches are warning signs.
Balance Trust and Controls: Small businesses need clear internal controls.
Simple Steps Matter: You don’t need complex systems.
Technology Has Limits: Prevention still relies on human judgment.
Owner Involvement is Key: Owners must stay engaged.

Take practical steps to strengthen your business for lasting success. Tune into the episode of ▶️ Why Every Business Owner Should Think Like a Forensic Accountant with Clay Kniepmann.

Find more podcast episodes on our website:

anderscpa.com/learn/podcasts/

Episode resources:

● Anders Virtual CFO by Anders website: anderscpa.com

● Love our content? Sign up for our newsletter: https://anderscpa.com/learn/

● Check out the Virtual CFO Playbook Course:

anderscpa.com/virtual-cfo-services/vcfo-playbook/

Quotes

Clay Kniepmann - "Forensic accounting is like piecing a puzzle together. Each case is unique and requires careful analysis and adaptability."
Jamie Nau: "Understanding your operational processes helps identify potential fraud risks more effectively than generic controls."

Clay Kniepmann is a manager in Forensic and Litigation at Anders, specializing in forensic accounting, fraud investigation, and litigation services. He’s known for making intricate financial issues easy to understand, giving leaders the clarity they need to make smarter decisions.

Website: https://anderscpa.com/

FB: https://www.facebook.com/AndersCPA

LI: https://www.linkedin.com/in/claykniepmann/

https://www.linkedin.com/company/anders-cpa/

IG: https://www.instagram.com/anderscpa/

Website: https://www.buzzsprout.com/2458889

Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/vcfobyanders

Linkedin: https://www.linkedin.com/company/vcfobyanders/

Instagram:

Turn Publicity Into Profit: The PR Strategy That Works

Mon, 20 Oct 2025 11:00:00 -0500

Imagine turning media attention into real business growth. For service-based small business owners, publicity is about turning visibility into profit.

In this episode, Mickie Kennedy, founder of eReleases, shares exactly how you can use PR to grow your credibility and revenue. He explains how press releases, when done right, can open doors to media coverage, attract your ideal clients, and create long-term financial success.

Key takeaways:

Why do most press releases fail? 97% of press releases generate no earned media and what separates the 3% that succeed.
Press releases that actually work. Write story-based press releases that highlight real customer experiences.
The difference between PR and ads. Ads push products, but PR builds trust.
How to define success. Success is generating real opportunities, partnerships, and revenue for your business.
Practical PR strategies you can use. Proven tactics that small business owners can implement to stand out in their industry.

Tune into the episode of ▶️ Turn Publicity Into Profit: The PR Strategy That Works.

Find more podcast episodes on our website: anderscpa.com/learn/podcasts/

Episode resources:

● Anders Virtual CFO by Anders website: anderscpa.com

● Love our content? Sign up for our newsletter: https://anderscpa.com/learn/

● Check out the Virtual CFO Playbook Course:

https://anderscpa.com/virtual-cfo-services/vcfo-playbook/

Quotes

-Mickie Kennedy: ""Product and service launches are common, but they often miss the story. Add use cases and real client experiences to make it newsworthy."

-Jody Grunden: "PR isn’t just ads in disguise. It’s about telling stories that uncover opportunities to generate revenue for your company."

Mickie Kennedy is the founder of eReleases, a leading press release distribution service dedicated to helping small businesses, startups, and authors gain credibility and authority through strategic publicity. He has mastered the art of turning press releases into real profit and positioning brands as industry leaders. Mickie’s proven system ensures businesses dominate the front page of Google and attract the recognition they deserve. Beyond PR, he is also a published poet, bringing creativity and perspective to every story he helps share.

Website: https://www.ereleases.com/

FB: https://www.facebook.com/mickie.kennedy/

https://www.facebook.com/ereleases.press.release.distribution

LI: https://www.linkedin.com/in/publicity/

IG: https://www.instagram.com/ereleasespr/?hl=en

X: https://x.com/ereleases/

Improve as an Agency Leader and 'Calm the Chaos' with Karl Sakas

Mon, 29 Sep 2025 11:00:00 -0500

If you’re invisible online, you’re losing clients before they even know you exist. In today’s competitive market, your digital presence is your storefront.

In this episode, Agency Consultant & Executive Coach Karl Sakas of Sakas & Company explains why being invisible online is costing you clients and what you can do to fix it. He shares practical strategies on leadership, delegation, and long-term planning that help you attract more clients and strengthen your agency.

Key takeaways:

Delegation done right. Learn how letting go of low-value tasks helps you focus on client growth and financial results.
Stop being the “answer person.” Growth stalls when every decision depends on you.
Visibility drives revenue. If you’re not visible, you’re handing over opportunities to competitors.
Audit your meetings. Free up your time by identifying which meetings matter and can be delegated.
Coaching and accountability matter. Having an outside advisor helps you avoid blind spots and stay accountable.

Tune into the episode of ▶️ Improve as an Agency Leader and 'Calm the Chaos' with Karl Sakas.

Find more podcast episodes on our website: anderscpa.com/learn/podcasts/

Episode resources:

● Anders Virtual CFO by Anders website: anderscpa.com

● Love our content? Sign up for our newsletter: https://anderscpa.com/learn/

● Check out the Virtual CFO Playbook Course:

anderscpa.com/virtual-cfo-services/vcfo-playbook/

Quotes

Karl Sakas: "A meeting audit helps leaders reclaim time. Review your calendar, decide which meetings matter, and delegate or cut the rest."
Jody Grunden: "Delegation is the cornerstone of growth. Protecting your team from failure keeps them from developing."

Karl Sakas is an agency advisor and coach who helps agency owners work less, earn more, and build stronger teams. Known as the "agency therapist," Karl has supported 600+ agencies across 36 countries in navigating growth and scaling smartly. He specializes in guiding leaders toward building lifestyle agencies or positioning for multi-million dollar exits.

Website: https://sakasandcompany.com/

FB: https://web.facebook.com/SakasAndCompany?_rdc=1&_rdr#

LI: https://www.linkedin.com/in/karlsakas/

IG: https://www.instagram.com/SakasandCompanyTeam/

X: https://x.com/KarlSakas

YT: https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCOyb-o2ICYgIOzBzCBarrjQ

Website:

Amplifying Human Potential In Your Business with AI Support

Wed, 20 Aug 2025 11:00:00 -0500

You don’t need more hands—you need better tools. For service-based small business owners, AI can lift the burden of repetitive tasks, helping your team do more of what moves the needle

In this episode of The Creative Agency Success Show, we sit down with Ed Krystosik, Co-Founder of RAC Projects AI, to unpack the real-world strategies for integrating AI into small businesses. From streamlining workflows to navigating compliance risks, Ed shares how AI can support your people, sharpen your processes, and fuel sustainable growth.

Key Takeaways:

Support Over Substitution: AI should enhance, not replace, your team.
Start Small, Think ROI: Target low-friction tasks first.
Fix the Process First: Map your workflows, then automate what makes sense.
Win Team Buy-In: Assign a tech-savvy team member to lead the change. Make AI adoption a shared mission, not a top-down command.
Play It Safe with Data: Learn how to protect sensitive info and avoid hallucinated outputs with smart model settings.
Make Your Method Memorable: Create repeatable models that AI and humans can remember and recommend.

Learn how to use AI to power smarter decisions, sharper content, and stronger results. Watch the episode of ▶️ Amplifying Human Potential In Your Business with AI Support.

Find more podcast episodes on our website: http://www.summitcpa.net/podcasts

Episode resources:

● Summit Virtual CFO by Anders website: https://www.summitcpa.net/

● Love our content? Sign up for our newsletter: https://www.summitcpa.net/summit-newsletter

● Check out the Virtual CFO Playbook Course:

https://anderscpa.com/

anderscpa.com/virtual-cfo-services/vcfo-playbook/

Quotes

"If you're using AI to amplify the people you already have—or possibly replace the need for new hires—that's where you get tremendous ROI." - Ed Krystosik
"When AI takes over parts of everyone’s tasks, it shifts job roles. The challenge becomes getting buy-in as responsibilities evolve." - Jamie Nau

Ed Krystosik is the Co-Founder of RAC/AI, where he helps busy sales professionals amplify their impact through smart, AI-supported lead generation strategies. By automating follow-ups and systematizing referral pipelines, Ed empowers professionals to boost revenue without burning out. His approach focuses on maximizing quality leads, nurturing client relationships, and simplifying tech with practical workflows. With Ed's guidance, sales teams can focus less on chasing leads and more on closing deals. He's on a mission to help sales pros unlock human potential through strategic, AI-backed systems.

Website: https://racprojects.ai/

Facebook: https://racprojects.ai/

LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/ed-krystosik/

What's a Maturity Model Anyway?

Tue, 08 Apr 2025 08:00:00 -0500

Creative Agency Success Show (Episode 144): “A maturity model isn't a report card, it's about understanding where your decision-making capabilities are.” - Jamie Nau

In this episode of The Creative Agency Success Show, Jamie Nau and Jody Grunden pull back the curtain on how small business owners can move from just getting by to truly thriving. They’ve spent the last eight months crafting a maturity model designed to help you assess where your business stands in five key areas: cash management, forecasting, profitability, sales outlook, and financial reporting.

But here’s the thing—it’s not about being perfect. It’s about having a clear path forward.

Imagine being able to make decisions with confidence, knowing you’re moving in the right direction. That’s the power of understanding where your business currently stands and what small but impactful steps you can take next.

So, what’s your next move? Tune in now and start building a business that works for you—not the other way around.

▶️ What's a Maturity Model Anyway?

Find more podcast episodes on our website: http://www.summitcpa.net/podcasts

Episode resources:

● Summit Virtual CFO by Anders website: https://www.summitcpa.net/

● Love our content? Sign up for our newsletter: https://www.summitcpa.net/summit-newsletter

● Digital Dollars and Cents: A Virtual CFO’s Playbook to help Creative Agencies Create a Financial Roadmap to Success, is now an audiobook! Download it here: https://vcfo.summitcpa.net/ddc

_________________________________________________________________________________________

The Creative Agency Success Show helps service-based business owners master the financial side of growth. Hosted by Jamie Nau, Director of VCFO Services/ Virtual CFO, and Jody Grunden, Partner and Virtual CFO Practice Leader at Anders CPAs + Advisors, the podcast dives into essential financial strategies for scaling creative agencies. With insights from industry experts and real-world experiences, episodes explore topics like cash flow management, forecasting, and financial maturity models. Backed by Summit Virtual CFO Services by Anders, this bi-weekly show provides actionable guidance for business owners navigating financial complexity. Join the conversation to build a stronger, more financially successful agency.

Website: https://the-virtual-cpa-success-show-for-creative-agencies.simplecast.com/

Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/vcfobyanders

Linkedin: https://www.linkedin.com/company/vcfobyanders/

Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/vcfobyanders

YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@vcfobyanders

X: https://x.com/vcfobyanders

________________________________________________________________________________________

Jamie Nau, CPA, Summit Virtual CF

Mastering the Art of Agency Growth: Lessons from Brad Farris

Mon, 06 Jan 2025 11:00:00 -0600

Episode Title:

Mastering the Art of Agency Growth: Lessons from Brad Ferris

Episode Summary:

In this episode of "The Creative Agency Success Show," hosts engage with Brad Farris from Anchor Advisors, a seasoned expert with over 20 years in the marketing and creative agency space. The discussion centers on scaling agency businesses, highlighting the importance of strategic hiring, financial planning, and maintaining cash reserves. Brad shares insights on the differences between consulting and coaching, emphasizing the empowerment of agency owners to find their own solutions. Success stories and challenges are discussed, offering practical advice on navigating growth stages and making informed decisions. The episode concludes with actionable steps for agency owners to achieve sustainable growth.

Episode Notes:

"I truly believe that a lot of visionaries and entrepreneurs think they can outsell anything, but they need to be intentional and build up that cash reserve to dive into the next level." -Brad Farris

The finer details of this episode:

Focus on strategies for agency owners to scale their businesses.
Discussion of the challenges faced by agency owners during growth.
Importance of hiring the right people for agency success.
Distinction between consulting and coaching in the agency context.
The role of cash reserves in supporting growth initiatives.
Insights on navigating different stages of agency growth.
The significance of revisiting goals and aspirations regularly.
Addressing conservative mindsets and encouraging calculated risks.
The value of external perspectives in identifying areas for improvement.

Episode resources:

● Summit Virtual CFO by Anders website: https://www.summitcpa.net/

● Love our content? Sign up for our newsletter: https://www.summitcpa.net/summit-newsletter

● Digital Dollars and Cents: A Virtual CFO’s Playbook to help Digital Companies Create a Financial Roadmap to Success, is now an audio book! Download it here: https://vcfo.summitcpa.net/ddc

Timestamps:

Introduction to the Show (00:00:00)

Overview of "The Creative Agency Success Show" and its focus on helping agency owners.

Discussion on Growth Strategies (00:00:15)

Brad Ferris shares insights on achieving the next stage of agency growth.

Importance of Coaching (00:00:40)

Speaker 3 highlights Brad's extensive experience and the value of coaching for agencies.

Hiring Considerations for Growth (00:01:21)

Discussion on when to hire and which roles to prioritize for agency success.

Consulting vs. Coaching (00:02:32)

Brad explains the differences between consulting and coaching in agency settings.

Success Story: Navigating Crisis (00:03:35)

Brad shares a client's turnaround story after a significant revenue drop.

Engagement Structure (00:05:58)

Brad describes his coaching engagement model and its impact on client awareness.

Contingency Planning (00:07:15)

Importance of building contingency time into a CEO's schedule to handle crises.

Creative Outlets for Agency Owners (00:09:03)

Helping clients find creative outlets outside work to maintain passion and energy.

Hiring Key Team Members (00:09:59)

Discussion on the importance of hiring for growth and the challenges faced.

Bottlenecks in Growth (00:10:40)

Identifying the owner as a bottleneck and the need to delegate responsibilities.

Sales Role Transition (00:12:02)

The importance of trans

2024 Year in Review

Mon, 30 Dec 2024 13:00:46 -0600

Episode Title: 2024 Year in Review

Episode Notes:

In our year end wrap up: Jody, Brett, Tom, Hannah, and Jamie share favorite moments from the show, podcasting resolutions and holiday gift wishes. the hosts reflect on personal anecdotes and provide their aspirations for the upcoming year. They also introduce a new behind-the-scenes team member.

"It’s super common for us to go into a conference and have someone say, "Hey, I love that podcast you’re on." It’s really cool, and we really enjoy it." – Jody Grunden

The finer details of this episode:

Reflection on the past year in podcasting
Personal podcasting resolutions for the upcoming year
Highlights of memorable podcast episodes and guest contributions

Episode resources:

● Summit Virtual CFO by Anders website: https://www.summitcpa.net/

● If you have questions or would like to be a guest on the show, email us at mcpasuccessshow@anderscpa.com

● Check out the Virtual CFO Playbook Course: https://vcfoplaybook.summitcpa.net/

Timestamps:

Introduction to the Episode (00:00:00)

The host welcomes listeners to the Creative Agency Success Show, highlighting its value for agency owners.

Productivity in One Room (00:00:14)

Jodi humorously comments on the team's low productivity due to everyone being together, setting a light-hearted tone.

Congratulations to Indiana University (00:00:41)

Brett congratulates Indiana University on a sports victory and transitions into a discussion about online gambling.

Online Gambling Discussion (00:01:05)

The speakers engage in a light banter about online gambling's legality in Indiana and personal stakes in upcoming games.

Introducing Christine (00:01:31)

Jodi introduces Christine, acknowledging her contributions to the team and welcoming her to the show.

Christine's Favorite Podcast (00:02:08)

Christine shares her favorite podcast episode, highlighting the Young CPA as relatable for her college experience.

Introducing Mina (00:04:04)

Mina, a new team member, shares her background in agricultural tech and politics, expressing excitement for her role.

Podcast Ranking Discussion (00:04:41)

Brett mentions the podcast's ranking, humorously clarifying its position within the United States.

Mina's Podcasting Resolution (00:05:39)

Mina discusses her goal of maintaining organized scheduling for the podcast, emphasizing the importance of planning ahead.

Favorite Podcast Moments (00:06:33)

The team discusses their favorite moments and guests from their respective podcasts, starting with Brett's insights.

Brett's Podcast Insights (00:07:06)

Brett reflects on the educational value of his guests in the cannabis space, highlighting their expertise and fascinating discussions.

Christine's Support (00:09:22)

Brett thanks Christine for her behind-the-scenes support during a recent conference, showcasing teamwork.

Hannah's Favorite Episodes (00:10:00)

Hannah shares her favorite episode featuring guests from analytics, discussing their innovative contributions to the accounting space.

Tom's Podcast Experience (00:11:33)

Tom recounts a humorous incident where he was mistakenly recognized for another podcast, showcasing the dynamics of audience recognition.

Storytelling in Podcasts (00:13:36)

Tom highlights the importance of storytelling in consulting, referencing insights from guests about the hero's journey.

Jodi's Favorite Moments (00:16:04)

Jodi expresses appreciation

Riding the Entrepreneurial Rollercoaster: Insights from Tom Conlon

Tue, 17 Dec 2024 11:00:00 -0600

Episode Title:

Riding the Entrepreneurial Rollercoaster: Insights from Tom Conlon

Episode Summary:

In this episode, the hosts engage with Tom Conlon, founder of North Street Creative, to discuss his entrepreneurial journey and the cyclical nature of business. Tom shares insights on the challenges of running a creative agency, emphasizing the importance of adaptability and timely decision-making. He recounts the impact of economic cycles on business operations and the significance of maintaining strong banking relationships. The conversation also covers the role of structured operating systems like EOS in achieving strategic goals and the necessity of financial visibility. The episode concludes with reflections on media influences and the enduring value of print publications.

Episode Notes:

"I didn't even have a line of credit until COVID. When it started happening, I realized how crucial it was to have that financial safety net." Tom Conlon

The finer details of this episode:

Entrepreneurial journey and background of the guest.
The cyclical nature of business and its impact on creative agencies.
Challenges faced while running a creative agency, including financial and cultural impacts.
Importance of adaptability and making timely decisions in business.
Strategies for surviving economic downturns, including financial planning and having a safety net.
The role of structured operating systems in enhancing business operations.
Financial visibility and its significance in strategic planning.
Engaging team members in the goal-setting process for personal and professional development.
Influence of media and publications on personal and professional growth.

Episode resources:

● Summit Virtual CFO by Anders website: https://www.summitcpa.net/

● Love our content? Sign up for our newsletter: https://www.summitcpa.net/summit-newsletter

● Digital Dollars and Cents: A Virtual CFO’s Playbook to help Digital Companies Create a Financial Roadmap to Success, is now an audio book! Download it here: https://vcfo.summitcpa.net/ddc

Timestamps:

(00:00:00)

Introduction to the podcast and its focus on helping agency owners scale their businesses.

Appreciation for Insights (00:00:14)

Discussion on the value of insights brought by co-host Hannah compared to previous co-hosts.

Conversation with Tom (00:00:23)

Hannah shares her positive experience speaking with guest Tom about his entrepreneurial journey.

Tom's Background (00:02:14)

Tom Conlon introduces himself and his branding agency, North Street Creative, and its focus areas.

Agency Evolution (00:02:36)

Tom discusses the evolution of his agency and how they adapted during the pandemic.

Entrepreneurial Journey (00:04:15)

Tom reflects on his unexpected entry into entrepreneurship and the transition from freelance work.

Lessons from Experience (00:08:45)

Tom shares key lessons learned throughout his 14 years in business, emphasizing cyclical trends.

Surviving Down Cycles (00:12:24)

Discussion on strategies to navigate low cycles in business and the importance of timely decisions.

Financial Preparedness (00:15:54)

Tom emphasizes the significance of having savings and a line of credit for business stability.

Proactive Planning (00:16:52)

Tom outlines how he prepares for future cycles with scenario planning and projections.

Culture Challenges During Tough Times (00:18:42)

Tom discusses the impact of difficult

From Clicks to Conversions: The Power of Retargeting in Digital Marketing with Zaid Ammari

Mon, 02 Dec 2024 04:00:00 -0600

“The good thing about retargeting is that most of the sales don't actually come from people clicking on the ad. They come from people seeing the ad and then either Googling the company or typing in the URL in the browser.” – Zaid Ammari

The finer details of this episode:

Marketing strategies focused on paid advertising and retargeting.
The significance of understanding data analytics in marketing.
Explanation of retargeting and its psychological impact on consumers.
Common mistakes businesses make in retargeting campaigns.
The importance of lead quality over quantity in marketing efforts.
The role of Google Analytics 4 (GA4) in optimizing marketing strategies.
Differences between hiring freelancers and agencies for marketing services.
Effective communication and client management in marketing.
The onboarding process for new clients and setting realistic expectations.
Practical applications of retargeting across various platforms.

Episode resources:

Summit Virtual CFO by Anders website: https://www.summitcpa.net/
Love our content? Sign up for our newsletter: https://www.summitcpa.net/summit-newsletter
Digital Dollars and Cents: A Virtual CFO’s Playbook to help Digital Companies Create a Financial Roadmap to Success, is now an audio book! Download it here: https://vcfo.summitcpa.net/ddc
Connect with Zaid here: linkedin.com/in/zaidammari
Check out PPC Masterminds here: ppcmasterminds.com
Free audit: https://ppcmasterminds.com/free-google-ads-audit/
Studio report mentioned in the show:

https://lookerstudio.google.com/reporting/cc7472bf-0d0e-40d4-b275-22f1996ca339/page/VAzeB.

Timestamps:

Introduction to the Episode (00:00:00)

Overview of the Creative Agency Success Show and its purpose for agency owners.

Discussion of Different Mindsets (00:00:14)

Jamie and Jody reflect on their different perspectives during the episode with Zaid.

Topics Covered in the Episode (00:00:42)

Jody highlights the focus on retargeting and its common mistakes discussed with Zaid.

Guest Introduction (00:01:38)

Jamie introduces Zaid Ammari, a marketing expert from PPC Masterminds.

Zaid's Background (00:02:07)

Zaid shares his journey from banking to becoming a paid marketing specialist.

Client Targeting in Marketing (00:04:42)

Jody asks about Zaid's target clients and his focus on paid search.

Industries of Focus (00:05:28)

Zaid discusses his typical clients, primarily in e-commerce and service industries.

Introduction to Retargeting (00:06:24)

Zaid explains retargeting and its psychological impact on potential customers.

Cookies and Ad Competition (00:08:13)

Discussion on how cookies compete in ad placements and auction dynamics.

Dynamic Retargeting (00:09:10)

Zaid describes how dynamic retargeting can tailor ads based on user behavior.

Common Retargeting Mistakes (00:09:37)

Zaid identifies mistakes businesses make by using the same ads repeatedly.

Cost-Effectiveness of Retargeting (00:10:20)

Zaid explains how retargetin

Navigating Mergers and Acquisitions in Creative Agencies with Jonathan Baker

Mon, 18 Nov 2024 09:59:14 -0600

“We try to help the sellers understand what the buyer's long-term vision is, what changes they expect to make, and over what period of time, because all of these things have implications on the business but also on emotions.” – Jonathan Baker

The finer details of this episode:

Overview of mergers and acquisitions (M&A) in the creative agency sector.
Importance of preparation for agency owners considering M&A.
Insights on valuation factors influencing agency sales.
Discussion on the current M&A landscape and market trends.
The significance of maintaining clean financial records for M&A readiness.
Exploration of deal structures and their implications, including Employee Stock Ownership Plans (ESOPs).
The role of agency owners post-acquisition and the need for clear communication with buyers.
Timing considerations for initiating the M&A process.
The impact of economic changes on agency valuations and buyer interest.
Recommendations for agency owners to proactively prepare for potential sales.

Episode resources:

Summit Virtual CFO by Anders website: https://www.summitcpa.net/
Love our content? Sign up for our newsletter: https://www.summitcpa.net/summit-newsletter
Digital Dollars and Cents: A Virtual CFO’s Playbook to help Digital Companies Create a Financial Roadmap to Success, is now an audio book! Download it here: https://vcfo.summitcpa.net/ddc
Connect with Jonathan here: https://www.linkedin.com/in/jonathandavidbaker/
Check out Punctuation here: https://punctuation.com/

Timestamps:

Welcome to the Creative Agency Success Show (00:00:00)

Introduction to the podcast's purpose and focus on agency owners looking to scale.

Discussion on M&A Preparation (00:00:15)

Insights from Jonathan Baker about the importance of preparation for mergers and acquisitions.

M&A Landscape Insights (00:00:39)

Hannah reflects on the evolving trends in the M&A landscape and its implications for clients.

Importance of Understanding M&A (00:01:13)

Discussion on how understanding the M&A process can aid clients in their decision-making.

Preparation Equals Easier Transition (00:01:39)

Jimmy emphasizes that being well-prepared leads to a smoother M&A process and better outcomes.

Introduction of Jonathan Baker (00:02:52)

Jonathan Baker shares his background and expertise in helping firms prepare for M&A.

Jonathan's M&A Journey (00:04:07)

Jonathan recounts his personal experience with M&A, highlighting its complexities and emotional aspects.

Valuation Nuances in M&A (00:06:19)

Discussion on non-financial factors influencing valuation in the M&A process.

Timing for M&A Conversations (00:07:51)

Jonathan advises when clients should start preparing for M&A, ideally 3-4 years in advance.

Post-Sale Involvement (00:09:22)

Exploration of the buyer's perspective on post-sale involvement and its implications for sellers.

Preventative Maintenance in M&A (00:11:33)

Strategies to help owners navigate the transition and maintain business integrity post-acquisition.

Deal Structure Non-Negotiables (00:14:01)

Jonathan outlines his strong recommendations against certain deal structures, particularly ESOPs.

Understanding ESOP Risks (00:15:07)

Discussion on the potential pitfalls of employee stock ownership plans (ESOPs) in M&A.

Unlocking Exit Readiness: How to Prepare Your Agency for a Successful Sale with Phil Daniels

Mon, 04 Nov 2024 04:30:00 -0600

“It's never too early to start planning because you never know when that end is going to be. Operate with optimism. There's a lot of activity that's really unprecedented in the industry right now, and I think for the years ahead, it's going to be very good for agency owners who build really solid, predictable, nice operating practices.” – Phil Daniels

The finer details of this episode:

Overview of mergers and acquisitions (M&A) in the agency sector.
Insights on exit readiness for agency owners.
Discussion of motivations for agency owners considering a sale.
Current trends in the M&A market and their implications.
Importance of a strong management team in enhancing agency value.
Evolving dynamics of purchase agreements and deal structures.
The role of private equity in the agency landscape and common misconceptions.
Strategies for presenting a compelling narrative to potential buyers.
Importance of early planning and preparation for agency sales.
Common pitfalls during the due diligence process and how to avoid them.

Episode resources:

Summit Virtual CFO by Anders website: https://www.summitcpa.net/
Love our content? Sign up for our newsletter: https://www.summitcpa.net/summit-newsletter
Digital Dollars and Cents: A Virtual CFO’s Playbook to help Digital Companies Create a Financial Roadmap to Success, is now an audio book! Download it here: https://vcfo.summitcpa.net/ddc
Connect with Phil here: https://www.linkedin.com/in/phillipdaniels/
Check out Season Advisors here: https://seasonadvisors.com/

Timestamps:

Welcome to the Show (00:00:00)

Introduction to the "Creative Agency Success Show" and its focus on helping agency owners.

Discussion of Topics (00:00:14)

Overview of the episode's topics: mergers & acquisitions and basketball, highlighting guest Phil Daniels.

Phil Daniels Introduction (00:01:20)

Phil shares his background in M&A and agency ownership, setting the stage for his insights.

Early Career in M&A (00:01:35)

Phil discusses starting his career at JP Morgan, focusing on acquiring and integrating businesses.

Transition to Agency Ownership (00:02:20)

Phil recounts his journey to starting his own agency, motivated by low barriers to entry.

Agency Sales Experience (00:03:22)

Phil explains his experience with agency sales, emphasizing the emotional aspects of selling.

Motivations for Selling (00:04:46)

Phil explores various reasons agency owners consider selling, including burnout and lack of succession planning.

Exit Readiness Concept (00:07:18)

Phil introduces the idea of exit readiness, emphasizing the importance of preparation before selling.

Trends in Purchase Agreements (00:09:34)

Discussion on recent trends in M&A agreements, including structure and incentives for sellers.

Incentivized Buyouts (00:10:57)

Phil talks about the common structure of incentivized buyouts and the importance of owner involvement post-sale.

Valuation Gaps in Sales (00:12:19)

Challenges in aligning seller expectations with buyer valuations, and strategies to bridge gaps.

Timing for Cleaning Up Books (00:15:11)

Phil advises on the optimal timeline for preparing financials before selling an agency.

M&A as a Marathon (00:16:39)

Discussion on the

Spooktacular Showdown: A Halloween Movie Draft Special

Thu, 31 Oct 2024 07:00:00 -0500

In this special episode of The Creative Agency Success Show, four speakers with Halloween-themed personas—Jamie Nightmare, Hannah Hexed Hood, Adam Haunted Hale, and Joey Killing Kenny—engage in a lively draft-style discussion about their favorite Halloween movies. Jamie, the enthusiastic host, sets the stage and outlines the draft rules. Hannah humorously admits her limited horror movie experience, while Adam and Joey share their deep knowledge and personal anecdotes. The conversation is filled with playful banter and passionate debates as they each select and defend their top horror film picks, creating an engaging and entertaining Halloween-themed episode.

The Best Strategies for Nurturing Client Relationships with Adam Kurzawa

Mon, 21 Oct 2024 04:30:00 -0500

”When I think about sales, it's really nurturing relationships and manufacturing opportunities. That is your job all day, every day.” - Adam Kurzawa

The finer details of this episode:

Insights on business development strategies for creative agencies.
Emphasis on nurturing existing client relationships for agency growth.
Discussion on effective outreach efforts and relationship-building in sales.
Importance of hiring for business development roles, focusing on soft skills and industry knowledge.
Strategies for identifying growth opportunities within current clients.
Challenges and considerations in the hiring process for sales positions.
The significance of maintaining personal connections in business.

Episode Resources:

Summit Virtual CFO by Anders website: https://www.summitcpa.net/
Love our content? Sign up for our newsletter: https://www.summitcpa.net/summit-newsletter
Digital Dollars and Cents: A Virtual CFO’s Playbook to help Digital Companies Create a Financial Roadmap to Success, is now an audio book! Download it here: https://vcfo.summitcpa.net/ddc
Connect with Adam here: https://www.linkedin.com/in/adamkurzawa
Check out Infinum here: https://infinum.com/

Timestamps:

Introduction to the Show (00:00:00)

Jamie and Jody welcome listeners to "The Creative Agency Success Show," highlighting its purpose for agency owners.

Friendship and Professional Journey (00:00:35)

Jody discusses his long friendship with Adam and Adam's professional growth in business development.

Practical Business Development Insights (00:01:14)

Jamie emphasizes the practicality of Adam's insights for agencies struggling with business development and sales.

Discussion on Pipeline and Biz Dev (00:03:33)

The conversation shifts to building a sales pipeline and strategies to enhance business development.

The Importance of Existing Clients (00:04:14)

Adam stresses focusing on upselling and nurturing relationships with existing clients for growth.

Outbound Marketing Strategies (00:07:41)

Discussion on effective outbound marketing tactics, emphasizing personalized approaches over traditional methods.

Manufacturing Opportunities (00:10:37)

Adam shares ideas on creating memorable events to foster connections and generate new business opportunities.

Building Relationships for Biz Dev (00:13:09)

Adam discusses the importance of having advocates within client organizations to facilitate business development.

Hiring for Growth Roles (00:16:25)

The speakers discuss key qualities to look for when hiring a strategic growth director for business development.

Complementary Roles in Sales Teams (00:21:07)

The idea of having two types of salespeople: hunters and facilitators, to enhance business development.

Monitoring Sales Performance (00:21:45)

Importance of regular check-ins and analyzing funnel activity to assess sales performance.

Referrals and Trust in Sales (00:26:30)

Discussing how referrals enhance credibility and ease the sales conversation.

The Ineffectiveness of Cold Calling (00:26:40)

Critique of cold calling as a sales strategy, emphasizing its challenges and ineffectiveness.

Text Communication in Sales (00:28:10)

Advocating for transitioning leads from LinkedIn to more personal communication methods like text.

Patience in Sales Conversations (00:31:52)

The importance of patience in conversation

Using a Forecast for Growth: A 2019 Episode About One Client’s Growth Revisited

Mon, 07 Oct 2024 04:30:00 -0500

“Having a strong forecasting process really should make it easier to eliminate things—like knowing if the seventh project is really one of the top seven things we need to do to hit our goals.” – Tom Wadelton

“When you build a budget, you're creating a plan for the next year, and then things happen. No one really expects a pandemic to happen, but things do happen. The question is, how do you adjust?” – Jamie Nau

The finer details of this episode:

Importance of dynamic forecasting over static budgeting
Client's growth journey and challenges during the pandemic
Centralized vs. decentralized decision-making in budgeting
Regular conversations about forecasts for informed decision-making
Adapting to new realities and aligning hiring with growth goals
Changes in sales leadership and their impact on business development
Role of pipeline meetings in assessing demand and resource allocation
Transitioning from fractional CFO services to full-time financial leadership
Strategies for prioritizing projects and initiatives
Reflecting on achievements and the evolution of business practices over time

Episode resources:

Summit Virtual CFO by Anders website: https://www.summitcpa.net/
Email us with questions or if you’d like to be a guest on the show: youngcpasuccessshow@anderscpa.com
We’re hiring! Check out our open positions: https://www.summitcpa.net/career-opportunities
Check out the 2019 episode here: https://www.summitcpa.net/blog/forecasting-for-growth

Timestamps:

Introduction to the Episode (00:00:00)

The host welcomes listeners to the Creative Agency Success Show and sets the context for the episode.

Revisiting 2019 (00:00:14)

Jamie introduces the "fast forward" episode, referencing a previous discussion about a client's growth in 2019.

Client's Growth Overview (00:01:03)

Tom provides a recap of the client's financial growth goals and challenges faced in 2019.

Impact of the Pandemic (00:02:16)

Discussion on how the pandemic affected the client's growth trajectory and forecasting adjustments.

Forecasting vs. Budgeting (00:02:31)

Jamie emphasizes the importance of dynamic forecasting over static budgeting in uncertain times.

Decentralization Mistakes (00:03:16)

Tom shares how decentralizing budgeting decisions led to frustration during the pandemic.

Importance of Regular Forecast Updates (00:04:02)

Discussion on how frequent updates to forecasts can guide business decisions amidst unexpected changes.

Centralized Forecasting Lessons (00:05:35)

Tom explains the shift to centralized forecasting for better management of growth and hiring.

Sales Leadership Changes (00:06:28)

The introduction of a new sales leader and their impact on the company's growth strategy.

Pipeline Meetings and Forecasting (00:10:02)

Jamie discusses the connection between pipeline meetings and forecasting for effective decision-making.

Current Status of the Client (00:10:49)

Tom provides an update on the client's growth, reaching $23 million by late 2023.

Triggers for Hiring a Full-Time CFO (00:11:48)

Discussion on indicators that suggest a business needs to transition from fractional to full-time financial leadership.

Complexity in Business Decisions (00:12:43)

Jamie highlights how increasing complexity in business operations signals the need for dedicated financial expertise.

Strategies for Business Owners to Leverage Podcast Guest Appearances with Julie Fry

Mon, 23 Sep 2024 04:30:00 -0500

Importance of podcasting for business owners
Enhancing visibility and credibility through podcast appearances
Networking opportunities provided by podcasting
Role of podcast guest booking agencies in facilitating appearances
Content repurposing strategies for maximizing podcast impact
Overcoming imposter syndrome in podcasting
Engaging team members in podcasting for brand representation
Process of working with a podcast guest booking agency
Personal anecdotes and experiences related to travel and confidence
Resources for preparing to be an effective podcast guest

Episode resources:

Summit Virtual CFO by Anders website: https://www.summitcpa.net/
Love our content? Sign up for our newsletter: https://www.summitcpa.net/summit-newsletter
Digital Dollars and Cents: A Virtual CFO’s Playbook to help Digital Companies Create a Financial Roadmap to Success, is now an audio book! Download it here: https://vcfo.summitcpa.net/ddc
Connect with Julie here: https://www.linkedin.com/in/fryjulie/
Check out Your Expert Guest here: https://yourexpertguest.com/

Timestamps:

Introduction to the Episode (00:00:00)

Overview of the Creative Agency Success Show and its purpose for agency owners.

Guest Introduction (00:00:15)

Jamie introduces Julie Fry and shares his experience of missing part of the interview.

Interview Context (00:00:45)

Hannah reflects on the fun interview with Julie and her background.

Podcasting as a Meta Topic (00:01:29)

Discussion about the episode being focused on podcasting and its benefits.

Hannah's Passion for Podcasting (00:02:03)

Hannah expresses her excitement about podcasting and its advantages for business owners.

Julie's Background (00:03:02)

Julie shares her journey and the founding of her podcast guest booking agency.

Genesis of Julie's Business (00:04:51)

Julie explains how her business idea emerged during the early COVID-19 pandemic.

Benefits of Podcast Guesting (00:06:57)

Discussion on how podcast guesting can enhance visibility and referrals for service providers.

Content Repurposing Importance (00:09:19)

Julie highlights the value of repurposing podcast content for marketing.

Overcoming Stage Fright (00:12:04)

Advice for individuals feeling anxious about speaking on podcasts.

Mindset Shift for Podcasters (00:12:18)

Julie encourages focusing on the value of sharing knowledge during podcast interviews.

Building Confidence Through Affirmations (00:14:16)

Discussion on using testimonials to boost confidence before podcasting.

Team Involvement in Podcasting (00:15:28)

Exploration of how organizations can involve team members in podcasting efforts.

Developing Personal Brands (00:18:43)

Discussion on the benefits of employees building personal brands through podcasting.

Client Engagement Process (00:19:41)

Julie outlines the typical engagement process with her clients for podcast guesting.

Podcast Guesting Benefits (00:22:14)

Discussion on how delegating tasks can save time and increase efficiency for business owners.

Favorite Vacation Stories (00:23:01)

Julie shares her favorite vacation experiences, highlighting confidence gained from solo travel and family trips.

Connecting with Julie (00:25:31)

Julie provides information on how

The Most Essential Tips for Personal Branding on LinkedIn with Donna Serdula

Mon, 09 Sep 2024 04:35:00 -0500

“If you sit down and really make sure that your profile resonates and is truly you, it feels good, and you smile. Ultimately, you become a person who doesn't have to look for a job. Jobs find you. You become a person whose phone rings because there are opportunities, because people know you, remember you, have worked with you, and they want to work with you again.”

—Donna Serdula

The finer details of this episode:

Importance of personal branding on LinkedIn
Shift in perception of the platform
Challenges of creating and maintaining a professional presence on social media
Controlling one's personal brand and its impact on career opportunities
Showcasing values, actions, and descriptions to create a strong and memorable brand
Balancing professionalism with personal authenticity on LinkedIn
Importance of consistency and cadence in posting content on LinkedIn

Episode resources:

Summit Virtual CFO by Anders website: https://www.summitcpa.net/
Love our content? Sign up for our newsletter: https://www.summitcpa.net/summit-newsletter
Digital Dollars and Cents: A Virtual CFO’s Playbook to help Digital Companies Create a Financial Roadmap to Success, is now an audio book! Download it here: https://vcfo.summitcpa.net/ddc
https://Donnanaserdula.com/
https://www.linkedin.com/in/toDonnana/

Timestamps:

The importance of personal branding on LinkedIn (00:01:13)

Discussion on the psychology behind personal branding and deliberate control of perception.

The shift in perception of LinkedIn (00:02:07)

The change from a passive networking platform to a more active and personal branding platform.

The challenges of maintaining a professional presence on social media (00:02:44)

Struggles with the perception of LinkedIn as a purely professional platform and the fear of being too personal.

The evolving concept of professionalism on LinkedIn (00:04:25)

Debunking the traditional image of professionalism and the need to move away from the concept of a suit and tie.

The importance of personal branding for career growth (00:08:08)

Emphasizing the significance of personal branding for career development and the need to control one's brand.

Strategies for personal branding on LinkedIn (00:09:49)

Discussion on the vision, mission, and consistent portrayal of oneself to create a strong personal brand.

The value of personal connection in professional work (00:12:49)

The significance of bringing one's whole self to work and the impact of personal connections in professional settings.

The time and effort required for effective LinkedIn utilization (00:15:49)

The need for strategic planning, time investment, and iterative work to create a strong LinkedIn profile.

Overcoming psychological barriers to posting on LinkedIn (00:18:16)

Dealing with the negative psychology and vulnerability associated with posting on LinkedIn.

The positivity of LinkedIn (00:19:08)

Discussion about the positive and professional atmosphere of LinkedIn compared to other social media platforms.

Building a professional network (00:20:08)

The importance of surrounding oneself with positive and empowering connections on LinkedIn.

Creating an authentic LinkedIn profile (00:21:06)

Encouragement to take control of one's image on LinkedIn, making the profile authentic and aligned with personal goals.

Utilizin

"How Can Agencies Achieve Better Alignment Between Sales and Project Management?:" with Rachel Gertz

Mon, 26 Aug 2024 04:30:00 -0500

"Alignment is going in the same direction, fighting for the same things, and looking at the same big picture together.” – Rachel Gertz

The finer details of this episode:

● Importance of project management and operations in digital agencies and creative studios

● Challenges in project management and the need for alignment between sales and project management

● Solutions to improve communication and alignment between departments

● Importance of understanding client goals and business objectives during the sales process

● Concept of time in the sales process and optimizing operations for long-term efficiency

● The three questions of project management: "Where are we? Where are we going? Are we okay?"

● Importance of ongoing alignment, regular check-ins, and alignment exercises for client satisfaction and project success

Episode resources:

● Summit Virtual CFO by Anders website: https://www.summitcpa.net/

● Love our content? Sign up for our newsletter: https://www.summitcpa.net/summit-newsletter

● Digital Dollars and Cents: A Virtual CFO’s Playbook to help Digital Companies Create a Financial Roadmap to Success, is now an audio book! Download it here: https://vcfo.summitcpa.net/ddc

Connect with Rachel here: https://www.linkedin.com/in/rachel-gertz-trainer/
Check out Louder than Ten here: https://louderthanten.com

Timestamps:

Welcome to the Creative Agency Success Show (00:00:00)

Introduction to the podcast and anticipation of the upcoming discussion with Rachel Gertz.

Insights from Rachel Gertz's Interview (00:00:14)

Discussion about the valuable tips and insights shared by Rachel Gertz in the podcast episode.

Improving Client Onboarding Process (00:00:36)

The importance of implementing new client onboarding strategies and the potential impact on client efficiency and improvements.

Implementing Advice from Rachel Gertz (00:01:11)

Encouragement to implement the advice shared by Rachel Gertz and the anticipation of positive outcomes from the episode.

Introduction of Rachel Gertz and Hannah (00:02:10)

Introduction of Rachel Gertz as the guest and Hannah as the special guest host for the episode.

Rachel Gertz's Background and Passion (00:02:35)

Insight into Rachel Gertz's background, passion for project management, and the focus of Louder Than Ten.

Rachel Gertz's Transition to Project Management (00:03:15)

Rachel Gertz's transition to project management, her background in teaching and education, and her passion for the softer side of project management.

Common Ailments in Project Management (00:05:14)

Identification of common challenges in project management and the impact of misalignment between sales and project management.

Improving Communication Between Departments (00:06:50)

The significance of communication between departments and the need for solutions to ensure effective communication among all departments.

Sales Process and Project Management Handover (00:07:43)

The impact of rushed sales processes and the importance of aligning project goals with business goals for successful project delivery.

Optimizing Sales Process (00:09:00)

Strategies for optimizing the sales process, including vetting criteria, involving subject matter experts, and aligning project goals with business goals.

Project Management Alignment Exercise (00:15:36)

Recommendation to use a client fit matrix for alignment exerci

VCFO Deep Dive: Jason Swenk

Mon, 12 Aug 2024 04:30:00 -0500

“Standing out is great, but conversion is crucial.” – Jason Swenk

It’s hard to build a business if you don’t invest in systems.” – Jason Swenk

The finer details of this episode:

Analysis and insights on building a strong email list
Sales cycle and close percentage
Unique marketing strategies
Importance of systems in building a successful business
Concept of "land and expand"
Effectiveness of email marketing campaigns
Providing quick financial statements with industry comparison
Importance of creativity and innovation in marketing strategies

Episode resources:

Summit Virtual CFO by Anders website: https://www.summitcpa.net/
Love our content? Sign up for our newsletter: https://www.summitcpa.net/summit-newsletter
Digital Dollars and Cents: A Virtual CFO’s Playbook to help Digital Companies Create a Financial Roadmap to Success, is now an audio book! Download it here: https://vcfo.summitcpa.net/ddc
Catch the full episode of What All Successful Agencies Have in Common: How to Separate from the Pack, with Tim Condon here: https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/what-all-successful-agencies-have-in-common-how-to/id870206013?i=1000653823029
Check out Jason here: https://jasonswenk.com/

Timestamps:

The welcome (00:00:00)

Introduction to the show "Creative Agency Success Show" and its purpose.

Discussing Jason Swank's podcast (00:00:15)

Introduction to the podcast "The Smart Agency Podcast" and its relevance to the speakers.

Analyzing the podcast episode (00:00:43)

Introducing the episode featuring Tim Condon and discussing its potential impact on the audience.

Building a strong email list (00:02:20)

Discussion on the importance of building a strong email list and the shift in the agency's marketing strategy.

The importance of conversion (00:04:52)

Emphasizing the importance of conversion in marketing efforts and its relevance to the audience.

Sales cycle and close percentage (00:06:11)

Analyzing the sales cycle and close percentage, comparing industry standards, and sharing insights on reducing the sales cycle.

Unique marketing strategy (00:11:15)

Exploring a unique marketing strategy involving leveraging established brands to generate leads and its implications.

Best piece of advice for leaders (00:12:30)

Discussing the best piece of advice for leaders, focusing on utilizing assets and generating what is needed.

Using current assets for sales process (00:14:03)

Sharing an example of using current assets to establish credibility and aid the sales process.

Campaign carnival (00:16:53)

Discussing a unique marketing campaign involving giving away free pizza to generate leads and its success in achieving lead opportunities.

Building a Business with Hefty Systems (00:18:08)

Discussion on the importance of investing in systems for scaling and duplication in marketing and sales.

Developing a Sales Process (00:19:13)

Insight on creating a sales process and thought leadership approach for client acquisition.

Effective Email Marketing Campaign (00:26:44)

The effectiveness of targeted email marketing and the innovation of using a pizza giveaway program for email acquisition.

Land and Expand Sales Strategy (00:29:00)

The concept of quick sales to establish trust and expand client relationships, with a focus on providing a low-cost financial stateme

Scale Your Agency and Build a Strong Community with Jason Swenk

Mon, 29 Jul 2024 04:30:00 -0500

“As you're building your business, you're building your agency, you're going to realize that there's some prospects that are just not right. You have to go through that Vegas buffet and get sick and food poisoning because you overate and you ate a lot of the bad shit and you tell yourself, ‘I'm not going to eat those raw craw legs anymore.’” -Jason Swenk

The finer details of this episode:

Jason Swenk's journey from agency owner to consultant and mastermind leader
Importance of knowing target audience and sales process for agency success
Value of creating a community of like-minded individuals through masterminds
Emphasis on maintaining a high-quality community over quantity in mastermind groups
Importance of building strong client relationships and conducting thorough research
Unique approach to hiring by setting specific instructions for applicants to follow
Significance of qualifying leads early in the sales process
Value of personal challenges and experiences in shaping one's perspective and approach to business

Episode resources:

Summit Virtual CFO by Anders website: https://www.summitcpa.net/
Love our content? Sign up for our newsletter: https://www.summitcpa.net/summit-newsletter
Digital Dollars and Cents: A Virtual CFO’s Playbook to help Digital Companies Create a Financial Roadmap to Success, is now an audio book! Download it here: https://vcfo.summitcpa.net/ddc
Connect with Jason here: https://www.linkedin.com/in/jasonswenk/
Listen to Jason’s podcast here: https://www.agencymastery360.com/podcast
Check out Agency Mastery 360 here: https://jasonswenk.com/
Subscribe to Jason’s YouTube channel here: https://www.youtube.com/jasonswenk

Timestamps:

Accidental Agency Owner (00:00:00)

Jason's accidental entry into the agency world and his agency's growth and eventual sale.

Transition to Consulting (00:03:08)

Jason's transition from running an agency to helping other agency owners and the inspiration behind his consulting practice.

Mastermind Community (00:04:45)

Jason's approach to running a mastermind community, its structure, and the experiences it offers to its members.

Exclusive Mastermind (00:08:28)

Jason's encounter with an exclusive mastermind and his decision to create a more genuine and impactful community.

Client Relationships (00:11:51)

Jason's insights on maintaining client relationships and the importance of delivering exceptional service.

Attract, Convert, Scale Methodology (00:14:32)

Jason's methodology for agency growth, focusing on attracting ideal clients, converting leads, and scaling the business.

Interviewing and Hiring (00:20:27)

Jason's advice on the interviewing process and the importance of knowing oneself and researching the client or employer.

Research and Applications (00:21:34)

Discussion on the importance of research in job applications and disqualifying uninterested candidates.

Lack of Research in Agency Pitching (00:22:47)

Personal anecdotes about pitching without proper research and the consequences.

Budgeting and Sales Process (00:25:48)

Strategies for asking for a budget in the sales process and the importance of understanding the client's budget.

Personal Question: Epic Experiences (00:30:29)

Sharing personal epic experiences, including hang gliding, paragliding, and winter

VCFO Deep Dive: Beyond HGTV Success featuring Traci Barrett

Mon, 15 Jul 2024 04:30:00 -0500

“After almost 20 years of doing that nonstop, I started to lose myself a little bit. I started to wonder, is this what I want to do for the next chapter of my life? Is there something else out there for me? When I looked around in corporate America, what I realized and what I saw was that there were a lot of people like me. I really wanted to get off autopilot. I felt like nobody in my life was getting the best part of me.” – Traci Barrett

The finer details of this episode:

Review and analysis of The Root of All Success with The Real Jason Duncan’s Beyond HGTV Success Featuring Traci Barrett
Emphasis on the unique thought of the episode
Exploration of success and life transitions
Importance of identifying the right client fit and company culture
Impact of generosity on business relationships and company culture
Transformational impact of Traci's strategic life mapping process
Appreciation for diverse perspectives on success from Jason Duncan's podcast

Episode resources:

Summit Virtual CFO by Anders website: https://www.summitcpa.net/
Love our content? Sign up for our newsletter: https://www.summitcpa.net/summit-newsletter
Digital Dollars and Cents: A Virtual CFO’s Playbook to help Digital Companies Create a Financial Roadmap to Success, is now an audio book! Download it here: https://vcfo.summitcpa.net/ddc
Connect with Traci here: https://www.linkedin.com/in/tracischubertbarrett/
Check out Navigate the Journey here: https://www.navigatethejourney.com/
Check out Traci’s website here: https://www.tracischubertbarrett.com/
Catch the full episode here: https://www.therealjasonduncan.com/podcasts/the-root-of-all-success-with-the-real-jason-duncan/episodes/2148159261

Timestamps:

The unicorn (00:04:05)

Discussion on the most unique thought of the episode, focusing on success beyond money and titles.

Traci's journey (00:05:28)

Traci's transition from corporate world to entrepreneurship, and the realization of wanting more from life.

Defining success (00:08:03)

Traci's personal definition of success and the importance of using unique talents to have a positive impact.

Visionary vantage (00:13:12)

Discussion on identifying what one wants and why, and the journey to create a different and entrepreneurial company culture.

The client relationship dilemma (00:18:15)

Discussion on deciding whether to take on a lucrative project that doesn't align with company values.

Identifying the right client (00:19:44)

Exploring the importance of understanding if a client is the right fit for the team and the impact of a mismatched client-team relationship.

Learning from mistakes (00:21:29)

Reflecting on the consequences of trying to retain a client who mistreats the team and the importance of addressing such situations promptly.

Generosity and company culture (00:24:12)

Exploring the role of generosity in shaping company culture, fostering relationships, and creating a positive work environment.

The mic drop moment (00:34:55)

Reflecting on the significance of identifying personal motivations and goals, as well as the impact of building meaningful relationships in business.

The strategic life map (00:35

VCFO Deep Dive

Thu, 11 Jul 2024 04:30:00 -0500

Episode resources:

Summit Virtual CFO by Anders website: https://www.summitcpa.net/
Love our content? Sign up for our newsletter: https://www.summitcpa.net/summit-newsletter
Digital Dollars and Cents: A Virtual CFO’s Playbook to help Digital Companies Create a Financial Roadmap to Success, is now an audio book! Download it here: https://vcfo.summitcpa.net/ddc

Timestamps:

The podcasting journey (00:00:14)

Jamie recounts the evolution of the podcast, from its humble beginnings to its current loyal listener base.

Introduction of the new podcast format (00:01:04)

Jamie introduces the new format, inspired by the "Rewatchable" podcast, and discusses the idea of discussing existing material through 11 topics.

The 11 topics of the new format (00:02:49)

Jamie explains the 11 topics that will be used to discuss existing material, ranging from financial advice to marketing and pipeline strategies.

Excitement for the new format (00:08:28)

Jamie expresses excitement and anticipation for the new format, emphasizing the importance of being excited about the podcast's content.

A Deep Dive into Leadership, Problem Solving, and Team Engagement with J. Scott

Mon, 01 Jul 2024 04:30:00 -0500

“Shifting from advocacy to inquiry is really important, and I think most leaders today are probably advocacy heavy because it's the model that we see most.” – J. Scott

The finer details of this episode:

Importance of leading the way in marketing and working with clients
Transforming high-potential individuals into high-functioning teams
Rationalizing tasks and initiatives to align with customer satisfaction, team member satisfaction, and profitability
Change management and involving stakeholders in driving change
Approach to problem-solving and decision-making in leadership
Balancing advocacy and inquiry in leadership and marketing
Involving team members in leadership meetings and problem-solving process

Episode resources:

Summit Virtual CFO by Anders website: https://www.summitcpa.net/
Love our content? Sign up for our newsletter: https://www.summitcpa.net/summit-newsletter
Digital Dollars and Cents: A Virtual CFO’s Playbook to help Digital Companies Create a Financial Roadmap to Success, is now an audio book! Download it here: https://vcfo.summitcpa.net/ddc
Connect with Jason here: https://www.linkedin.com/in/jasonscott120vc/
Check out 120Vc here: https://www.120vc.com/

Timestamps:

Leadership and Change Implementation (00:00:14)

Discussion on leadership, change implementation, and project management with J Scott from 120 VC.

Marketing and Thought Leadership (00:00:29)

Transition from thought leadership to marketing strategies and leading teams in marketing efforts.

Creating High Performing Teams (00:01:32)

Introduction to the topic of creating high performing teams with J. Scott from 120 VC.

Transforming Cost Centers to Profit Centers (00:02:32)

Discussion on transforming groups from cost centers to profit centers and focusing on customer satisfaction, team member satisfaction, and profitability.

Working with Fortune 1000 Clients (00:02:58)

Details about working with Fortune 1000 clients and the process of transforming various teams within those businesses.

Shifting Mindsets and Canceling Initiatives (00:04:23)

Insights into shifting mindsets, rationalizing initiatives, and repurposing existing team members to create growth.

Impact on Smaller Teams (00:06:17)

Exploration of how smaller teams can contribute to the three pillars of customer satisfaction, team member satisfaction, and profitability.

Applying Marketing Principles to Business (00:08:06)

Comparison of marketing and leadership principles, emphasizing the importance of understanding the underlying business problems.

Creating Demand and Stakeholder Engagement (00:13:27)

Explanation of creating demand for initiatives and engaging stakeholders through experience sharing and shifting mindsets.

Improving Customer Satisfaction through Tools (00:15:59)

Discussion on improving customer satisfaction through the implementation of tools, focusing on the impact on call center operations.

Empowering Teams and Overcoming Obstacles (00:17:37)

Insights into empowering teams, addressing obstacles, and ensuring alignment with day-to-day responsibilities during project implementation.

Crowdsourcing Requirements and Demand (00:18:25)

J. Scott discusses the importance of crowdsourcing requirements and demand from employees to improve business solutions.

Effective Group Problem-Solving (00:20:39)<

Navigating Digital Marketing Trends: Insights from Industry Events with Hannah Hood

Mon, 17 Jun 2024 04:30:00 -0500

“Clients don’t want to ask us for new ideas; they want us to come to them with new ideas.” Hannah Hood

The finer details of this episode:

● Shortening of the sales cycle indicating a positive shift in the industry

● Trend of clients seeking specialized services from agencies

● Emphasis on the need for agencies to specialize and market their expertise effectively

● Importance of being proactive in presenting new ideas to clients and pricing services based on value

● Significance of building trust with clients and maintaining long-term relationships

● Communication of the value of agency services effectively

● Strategies for navigating the evolving landscape of the agency industry

Episode resources:

● Summit Virtual CFO by Anders website: https://www.summitcpa.net/

● Love our content? Sign up for our newsletter: https://www.summitcpa.net/summit-newsletter

● Digital Dollars and Cents: A Virtual CFO’s Playbook to help Digital Companies Create a Financial Roadmap to Success, is now an audio book! Download it here: https://vcfo.summitcpa.net/ddc

● https://www.linkedin.com/in/hannahchood/

Timestamps:

The welcome (00:00:00)

Introduction and purpose of the podcast episode.

Hannah's agency events (00:00:14)

Discussion about Hannah's experiences at agency events and their importance.

The Build Better Agency Summit (00:00:53)

Highlights from the Build Better Agency Summit and the value of attending such events.

Impact of COVID on the industry (00:01:52)

Discussion on the industry's recovery from the impact of COVID-19 and changes in client behavior.

Shift in client needs and agency specialization (00:05:22)

Insights into the evolving client needs and the importance of agency specialization.

Value-based pricing and client relationships (00:08:20)

Importance of value-based pricing, building client trust, and maintaining long-term relationships.

Pricing strategies and advice (00:12:22)

Insights into pricing strategies, price pressure, and the importance of building trust with clients.

Post-event reflection and team communication (00:16:10)

Recommendations for post-event reflection and team communication to share insights and implement learnings.

Denver Experience (00:17:55)

Discussion about the food, weather, and environment in Denver, and the impact of altitude on the speaker's health.

Effects of Altitude (00:18:30)

The speaker's experience with altitude sickness and the importance of drinking water at high altitudes.

Dryness and Humidity (00:18:54)

The impact of dryness and high altitude on the body, and the need to stay hydrated in such conditions.

Future Plans (00:19:43)

Plans to visit Denver again, and the possibility of meeting up with the hosts for dinner during the next visit.

Appreciation and Conclusion (00:20:00)

Thanking the guest for sharing information and experiences and expressing gratitude for the opportunity to participate in events.

Unleashing the Power of Delegation: HR Insights and Leadership Strategies with Vicky Brown

Mon, 03 Jun 2024 04:30:00 -0500

Episode Notes:

“Delegation is challenging; it requires a lot of thought process and a lot of preparation. But you shouldn’t try to do everything on your own; use your team. Delegation is about giving them enough information so that they know what the end goal is.” Vicky Brown

The finer details of this episode:

Importance of supporting managers and helping them grow their leadership skills
Challenges of delegation and setting boundaries in leadership roles
Emphasis on teamwork and collaboration within a business
Creating a culture of trust and open communication within the organization
Understanding implications of being a multi-state employer

Episode resources:

Summit Virtual CFO by Anders website: https://www.summitcpa.net/
Love our content? Sign up for our newsletter: https://www.summitcpa.net/summit-newsletter
Digital Dollars and Cents: A Virtual CFO’s Playbook to help Digital Companies Create a Financial Roadmap to Success, is now an audio book! Download it here: https://vcfo.summitcpa.net/ddc
www.idomeneoinc.com
https://www.linkedin.com/in/vicky-brown-4160061
Morehumanmoreresources.info/podcastgift

Time stamps:

HR conversation (00:00:14)

The conversation covers the broad scope of HR, including coaching, delegation, and more.

Introduction of Vicky Brown (00:01:42)

Vicky Brown introduces herself as an HR professional and shares her background in opera singing.

Vicky's company and clients (00:02:24)

Vicky talks about her HR consulting company, Dominion Enterprises, and her range of clients.

Transition from opera singing to HR (00:04:24)

Vicky shares her transition from an opera singer to an HR professional and the challenges she faced.

Services provided by Vicky's company (00:07:32)

Vicky explains the comprehensive services her company offers, including regulatory compliance, benefits, and payroll administration.

Employee relations and manager coaching (00:08:27)

Vicky emphasizes the importance of employee relations and coaching managers to enhance leadership skills.

Delegation challenges (00:10:30)

Vicky discusses the challenges of delegation and the need for proper training and trust in the delegation process.

Setting boundaries for delegation (00:14:08)

The discussion addresses the need for clear boundaries and healthy communication in delegation, especially between leaders and team members.

Preparation for effective delegation (00:18:15)

Vicky emphasizes the importance of preparation and effective communication in the delegation process.

The importance of team collaboration (00:20:28)

Discussing the value of incorporating the team's input and perspective into decision-making processes.

Delegating responsibilities in a leadership team (00:21:22)

Exploring the role of a leader in delegating tasks and allowing team members to contribute their expertise.

Creating a culture of trust and collaboration (00:22:43)

Emphasizing the significance of fostering an environment of trust and open communication within the team to create a positive work culture.

Strategies for effective collaboration (00:23:21)

Discussing the approach of setting goals and strategies, and the importance of open communication and feedback in the collaboration process.

The role of leadership in shaping organizational culture (00:25:34)

Exploring how leadership

Sales 'Snacks' for Creative Agencies

Mon, 20 May 2024 04:30:00 -0500

Sales is the engine of any agency, but oftentimes it's the hardest part to grow and scale when you move from a founder-centric shop to a full marketing organization. The clips in this episode offer some of the best pieces of advice our hosts of the Creative Agency Success Show have gathered, provided to you in bite-sized form, so that you can digest and try your favorites.

The finer details of this episode:

Who makes a good salesperson? -- with Diane Helbig
How to warm up your cold calls -- with Nikki Rausch
What to do when owners hate sales? -- with Karl Sakas
9 steps to speedier sales -- with Simon Severino
How a product catalogue helps the sales process -- with Joe Ardeeser

Episode resources:

Summit Virtual CFO by Anders website: https://www.summitcpa.net/
Love our content? Sign up for our newsletter: https://www.summitcpa.net/summit-newsletter
Digital Dollars and Cents: A Virtual CFO’s Playbook to help Digital Companies Create a Financial Roadmap to Success, is now an audio book! Download it here: https://vcfo.summitcpa.net/ddc
Full episodes included in the podcast:

Pipeline Meetings: Why A CFO Helps Agencies Accelerate Growth with Hannah Hood

Mon, 06 May 2024 04:30:00 -0500

“As a little bit of contextual background for our listeners, if you don't already know, as a part of the suite of meetings and services that we offer our clients, we are in what we call our pipeline meeting. During these meetings and throughout our client relationship, we stress the importance of knowing your data. At the end of the day, you absolutely need to be looking at your data and understanding the story that it tells you about where your agency currently is. Having conversations with my clients so that I can really dive into what the data is telling me is crucial.” –Hannah Hood

The finer details of this episode:

Challenges and trends in the agency industry
Extended sales cycles and delays in closing deals
Slower lead generation and new client acquisition
Strategies for managing low utilization
Whitespace analysis for evaluating services provided to clients
Impact of the current economic state on client decisions

Episode resources:

Summit Virtual CFO by Anders website: https://www.summitcpa.net/
Love our content? Sign up for our newsletter: https://vcfo.summitcpa.net/ddc https://www.summitcpa.net/summit-newsletter
Digital Dollars and Cents: A Virtual CFO’s Playbook to help Digital Companies Create a Financial Roadmap to Success, is now an audio book! Download it here: https://vcfo.summitcpa.net/ddc
https://www.linkedin.com/in/hannahchood/
Love hearing insight from Hannah? Check her out on the Young CPA Success Show: https://www.youtube.com/playlist?list=PLHIPahPXE1HhfZO1Ig5pGiB-eHA4hrFzQ

Timestamps:

The state of the industry (00:00:00)

Introduction to the episode and discussion about the agency industry's challenges and trends.

Extended sales cycle (00:01:25)

Analysis of the extended sales cycle, identifying the pain points and strategies for improving the sales process.

Slower lead generation and new client acquisition (00:05:56)

Discussion on tracking lead sources and making informed decisions based on lead metrics to improve client acquisition.

Whitespace analysis (00:06:34)

Explanation of the whitespace analysis tool to identify opportunities for service expansion and niche specialization.

Companies wanting more for less (00:10:23)

Exploration of the challenge of clients seeking more services for reduced costs and strategies for communicating and evaluating the value of services.

Evaluation of team utilization and business size (00:13:53)

Strategies for evaluating team size, performance, and business goals during slow times, including considerations for right-sizing the team and utilizing contractors.

Planning for the future (00:17:28)

Discussion on reevaluating business goals and creating a plan for the future based on current challenges and opportunities.

Evaluating Weaknesses and Planning for Change (00:18:49)

Discussion on evaluating weaknesses, improving processes, and investing in marketing strategies during a lull in business.

Tapping into Hidden Potential within the Team (00:20:40)

Exploring the importance of evaluating team members' hidden potential and tapping into their skills and ideas.

Bringing Operations and Sales Teams Together (00:22:59)

Emphasizing the significance of communication between operations and sales teams for better client outcomes and sales strategies.

Digital Agency Growth: From Infancy through Adolescence to Maturity with Karla Santi

Mon, 22 Apr 2024 04:30:00 -0500

“I'm the CEO. I'm not a CFO, but I was acting as one. It was not my favorite part of running a company because math doesn't excite me like it does some of you. I can do it, and I think I did it pretty well. But it was invaluable to be able to have your firm come in and take a look at how we've been running the company and just to get the reassurance of, 'You guys are good, you're not doing things wrong.' You've been able to come in and tweak things and make it even better. It's been quite the journey from first meeting you, in 2015.” -Karla Santi

The finer details of this episode:

● Importance of mentoring in personal and professional growth

● Value of finding a mentor or coach in the professional world

● Significance of advisory boards and diverse perspectives in decision-making

Episode resources:

● Summit Virtual CFO by Anders website: https://www.summitcpa.net/

● Love our content? Sign up for our newsletter: https://vcfo.summitcpa.net/ddc https://www.summitcpa.net/summit-newsletter

● Digital Dollars and Cents: A Virtual CFO’s Playbook to help Digital Companies Create a Financial Roadmap to Success, is now an audio book! Download it here: https://vcfo.summitcpa.net/ddc

● https://www.blendinteractive.com/

Timestamps:

Karla's Background and Agency (00:00:15)

Discussion about Karla's impressive background and her agency, Blend Interactive.

Karla's Journey and Agency Evolution (00:01:51)

Karla shares her personal journey and how her agency has evolved since its founding in 2005.

Long-time Friendship and Events (00:03:25)

Discussion about the long-time friendship between Karla and the hosts, as well as their shared experiences at various events.

Karla's Decision to Seek Financial Help (00:07:03)

Karla discusses the triggering event that led her to seek financial help and the decision to commit to working with a financial team.

Adoption of AI and Employee Development (00:10:45)

Karla talks about the adoption of AI in web development and the focus on employee development within her agency.

Empowering Leadership Team and Future Plans (00:12:24)

Discussion about empowering the leadership team to make decisions and future plans for the agency.

Karla's Role as a Mentor (00:15:26)

Karla's role as a mentor and the importance of personal connections in mentoring relationships.

Influence of Sports on Mentoring (00:20:01)

Karla reflects on the influence of ballet and tennis on her leadership style and team collaboration.

Finding the Right Mentor (00:21:53)

Discussion on the importance of finding a mentor who connects with you and fosters a meaningful relationship.

Transparency and Trust in Relationships (00:23:02)

Importance of transparency and trust in professional relationships, including the mentor-mentee dynamic.

Takeaways from Conferences (00:24:11)

The value of attending conferences and the key insights gained from them.

Learning from Others (00:33:19)

The significance of learning from others and seeking guidance to improve professional development and business success.

Why Attending Events is Good for Business with Jay Owen

Mon, 08 Apr 2024 04:30:00 -0500

“You want to be around people who are better than you – more talented, more experienced; go and soak it in. The places where I find the most growth for myself and my agency is where I’m around other people, and we’re just sharing ideas.” – Jay Owen

The finer details of this episode:

● Jay’s journey of agency ownership and hosting events

● Why attending events is good for networking, business growth, and personal growth

● Building a successful agency without sacrificing self and family

Episode resources:

● Summit Virtual CFO by Anders website: https://www.summitcpa.net/

● Love our content? Sign up for our newsletter: https://www.summitcpa.net/summit-newsletter

● Digital Dollars and Cents: A Virtual CFO’s Playbook to help Digital Companies Create a Financial Roadmap to Success, is now an audio book! Download it here: https://vcfo.summitcpa.net/ddc

● https://businessbldrs.com/

● https://www.agencybuildersretreat.com/

● https://www.linkedin.com/in/jayowen/

● https://GetJaysBook.com/

How Agency Owners Can Work Less and Earn More with Karl Sakas

Mon, 25 Mar 2024 04:30:00 -0500

“When you start the agency, everyone expects you to be the contact. But you probably don't want to do that forever. Maybe initially you delegate implementation work, the subject matter expert stuff, or project management. Then you probably want to delegate account management stuff. Usually you're still doing client strategy, at least in the early to mid-days.

The idea here is you're like, ‘Hey, so-and-so is great. They are your account manager. They're your day-to-day contact.’ They're running the, say, the monthly call or every other call. But you're still the client strategist. You're involved at the beginning of the engagement, and then things pass over to the account manger. Maybe you're making a quarterly or a semi-annual or annual appearance with those higher-level insights that only you could provide. But importantly, you are not the client’s day-to-day contact. You're not the one getting every single email or call. You just show up and share the magic. Your team is taking it from there.” – Karl Sakas

The finer details of this episode:

Delegation and streamlining processes
Understanding time management within an agency
Marketing agency operations
Preparing for an agency owner exit strategy

Episode resources:

Summit Virtual CFO by Anders website: https://www.summitcpa.net/
Love our content? Sign up for our newsletter: https://vcfo.summitcpa.net/ddc https://www.summitcpa.net/summit-newsletter
Digital Dollars and Cents: A Virtual CFO’s Playbook to help Digital Companies Create a Financial Roadmap to Success, is now an audio book! Download it here: https://vcfo.summitcpa.net/ddc
https://sakasandcompany.com/
https://www.linkedin.com/in/karlsakas/

Timestamps:

The Creative Agency Success Show (00:00:00)

Introduction to the podcast and its purpose.

The title of the book (00:00:14)

Discussion about the book "Work Less, Earn More" by Karl Sakas and its relevance to agency owners.

Workshop during team retreat (00:00:36)

Praise for the workshop conducted by Karl Sakas during a team retreat and its impact on the team's perspective on creative agencies.

Introduction of Karl Sakas (00:01:30)

Introduction of Karl Sakas as a guest on the show and a brief overview of his background and expertise.

Starting point of reading the book (00:04:03)

Discussion on the reasons why people tend to read the book "Work Less, Earn More" and the relevance of the concepts in the book to agency owners.

Equity vs. Lifestyle continuum (00:05:45)

Exploration of the continuum between running a lifestyle agency and an equity agency, and the importance of knowing where one wants to go in their business.

Financial considerations for business owners (00:10:31)

Discussion on the financial aspects of running an agency, including the importance of earning a certain amount as a business owner and the considerations for selling the business.

Dealing with day-to-day tasks and responsibilities (00:13:53)

Exploration of how agency owners spend their time, their preferences, and strategies for delegating tasks to improve efficiency and effectiveness.

Impact of team members on the selling process (00:15:54)

Discussion on the role of team members in the selling process and their influence on potential buyers.

The buyer's perspective (00:16:26)

Discussion about the role of an owner in the sales process and the impact

Unmanage Your Agency: A Conversation with Agency Agile's Jack Skeels

Mon, 11 Mar 2024 04:30:00 -0500

“Managers are far more costly than we realize. The more managing you have going on, the lower the overall productivity of the organization. Leadership matters, don't get me wrong, but agencies are managed to success.” – Jake Skeels

The finer details of this episode:

Challenges of managing a growing agency or service-based business
Impact of management structures on productivity
Concept of matrix managing and its effects on innovation and productivity
Importance of financial management and productivity in achieving higher profit margins for agencies

Episode resources:

Summit Virtual CFO by Anders website: https://www.summitcpa.net/
Love our content? Sign up for our newsletter: https://vcfo.summitcpa.net/ddc https://www.summitcpa.net/summit-newsletter
Digital Dollars and Cents: A Virtual CFO’s Playbook to help Digital Companies Create a Financial Roadmap to Success, is now an audio book! Download it here: https://vcfo.summitcpa.net/ddc
https://agencyagile.com/
https://www.linkedin.com/in/jackaskeels/

Strategies for Growing Business Development in Creative Agencies with Goran Kovacevic

Mon, 26 Feb 2024 04:30:00 -0600

“When you are doing business development, you need to build your own identity. You need to have something that somebody will remember you for.” - Goran Kovacevic

The finer details of this episode:

Transition of individuals from production roles to business development in creative agencies
Importance of building a strong brand identity in sales and business development
Changing dynamics of business development as companies grow
Significance of processes in supporting growth and measuring key metrics

Episode resources:

Summit Virtual CFO by Anders website: https://www.summitcpa.net/
This Quiz Will Tell You What Financial Help Your Business Needs:

https://rxkebp5191f.typeform.com/summitquiz?typeform-source=statics.teams.cdn.office.net

How Can A Business Coach Transform Your Agency's Success? With Russ Sorrells and Doug Tenpas

Mon, 12 Feb 2024 04:30:00 -0600

"Certainly, from an accountability perspective, that's the biggest benefit in coaching. The coach is going to help you follow through on the plan, and if you deviate, they'll ask why and what's the next mission as a result." – Russ Sorrells

The finer details of this episode:

Importance of strategy, communication, financial oversight, and sales focus in businesses
The role of a coach in holding business leaders accountable
The impact of not having a forecast or plan in place for small businesses
Value of understanding financial statements and having a clear financial strategy

Episode resources:

Summit Virtual CFO by Anders website: https://www.summitcpa.net/
Email us with questions or if you’d like to be a guest on the show: vcpasuccessshow@anderscpa.com
This Quiz Will Tell You What Financial Help Your Business Needs:

https://rxkebp5191f.typeform.com/summitquiz?typeform-source=statics.teams.cdn.office.net

https://www.ownyourcategory.com/

Streamlining the Proposal Process and Managing Scope for Creative Agencies with Joe Ardeeser

Mon, 29 Jan 2024 04:30:00 -0600

"Two or three days of delay, because it takes you so long to create a scope of work or proposal, could be the difference between a potential client engaging with one of your competitors and building a lot of rapport." – Joe Ardeeser

The finer details of this episode:

Importance of proposal and pricing process in agency-client interactions
Creating a product catalog for streamlining the proposal process
Strategies to avoid scope creep and maintain clear pricing conversations with clients
Importance of a well-structured pricing tool

Episode resources:

Summit Virtual CFO by Anders website: https://www.summitcpa.net/
Email us with questions or if you’d like to be a guest on the show: vcpasuccessshow@anderscpa.com
This Quiz Will Tell You What Financial Help Your Business Needs:

https://rxkebp5191f.typeform.com/summitquiz?typeform-source=statics.teams.cdn.office.net

From Ballroom to Business: Choreographing Experiences for Success with Michael Johnson

Mon, 15 Jan 2024 04:30:00 -0600

"For companies that have been around for a long time, often they get very disconnected from their actual client, and then they wonder why their growth just sort of flatlines." – Michael Johnson

The finer details of this episode:

Distinguishing between coaching, consulting, and agency roles
Maintaining control and alignment as a CEO or owner
Understanding and improving customer experience

Episode resources:

Summit Virtual CFO by Anders website: https://www.summitcpa.net/
Email us with questions or if you’d like to be a guest on the show: vcpasuccessshow@anderscpa.com
This Quiz Will Tell You What Financial Help Your Business Needs:

https://rxkebp5191f.typeform.com/summitquiz?typeform-source=statics.teams.cdn.office.net

http://BizChoreo.com
https://www.linkedin.com/in/michael-johnson-3149151ab/
Business Choreography: Changing the Way People Look at Accounting with Jody Grunden: https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/changing-the-way-people-look-at-accounting-with/id1543832214?i=1000636780953

Jody and Jamie’s 2023 Year in Review and What to Expect for 2024

Tue, 02 Jan 2024 04:30:00 -0600

Important Financial Metrics for Creative Agencies with David C. Baker https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/important-financial-metrics-for-creative-agencies-with/id1481877575?i=1000621344461
Business Coaching, Staying Relevant, Achieving Success: Insight from Pinnacle Business Guides Founder Greg Cleary https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/business-coaching-staying-relevant-achieving-success/id1481877575?i=1000618300601
The Future of AI: Balancing Innovation and Ethical Considerations with Shanif Dhanani https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/the-future-of-ai-balancing-innovation/id1481877575?i=1000627415283
"What if There's More?" with Traci Barrett https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/what-if-theres-more-with-traci-barrett/id1481877575?i=1000603865819
Rebranding Your Agency for Success with Todd Nienkerk https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/rebranding-your-agency-for-success-with-todd-nienkerk/id1481877575?i=1000623632381
Building an Enduring Business: The Three Pillars of Success with Natalie Eckdahl https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/building-an-enduring-business-the-three-pillars/id1481877575?i=1000615656509
Forecasting as a Team Sport with Tom O’Neil https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/forecasting-as-a-team-sport-with-tom-oneil/id1481877575?i=1000620425413
Adapting to a Hybrid Work Environment with Tammy Bjelland https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/adapting-to-a-hybrid-work-environment-with-tammy-bjelland/id1481877575?i=1000619084869
Finding Balance in Life as an Entrepreneur with Coach Bob Shenefelt https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/finding-balance-in-life-as-an-entrepreneur-with-coach/id1481877575?i=1000638924357

Summit Virtual CFO by Anders website: https://www.summitcpa.net/
Email us with questions or if you’d like to be a guest on the show: vcpasuccessshow@anderscpa.com
This Quiz Will Tell You What Financial Help Your Business Needs: https://rxkebp5191f.typeform.com/summitquiz?typeform-source=statics.teams.cdn.office.net

Finding Balance in Life as an Entrepreneur with Coach Bob Shenefelt

Mon, 18 Dec 2023 04:30:00 -0600

“I went through life going through the motions. Around 30, I accomplished everything I set out to do. It was then that I realized it was time to work on my life, rather than doing things I thought I was supposed to do. I hit the delete button and everything in my life started fresh, realizing what matters most and clarifying who I am.” – Bob Shenefelt

The finer details of this episode:

●Finding the right group of people for business success

●Defining your vision and self-actualization in pursuing happiness and fulfillment

●Importance of trust, open communication, and positive culture in organizations

Episode resources:

●Summit Virtual CFO by Anders website: https://www.summitcpa.net/

●Email us with questions or if you’d like to be a guest on the show: vcpasuccessshow@anderscpa.com

● This Quiz Will Tell You What Financial Help Your Business Needs:

https://rxkebp5191f.typeform.com/summitquiz?typeform-source=statics.teams.cdn.office.net

Rethink Your Sales Approach with Diane Helbig

Mon, 04 Dec 2023 04:30:00 -0600

“The first piece of advice that I give a client is ‘stop selling.’ And what I mean about that is, sales in the traditional sense of the word don’t work; people are engaging in behaviors that don’t work for most small business owners. It’s much more natural to engage in building relationships.” – Diane Helbig

The finer details of this episode:

Discussion on the ineffectiveness of traditional sales techniques
Hiring salespeople with industry-specific knowledge and curiosity
Shift toward educating potential clients and being a trusted source
Uncovering reasons for clients not being a good fit

Episode resources:

Summit Virtual CFO by Anders website: https://www.summitcpa.net/
Email us with questions or if you’d like to be a guest on the show: vcpasuccessshow@anderscpa.com
This Quiz Will Tell You What Financial Help Your Business Needs:

https://rxkebp5191f.typeform.com/summitquiz?typeform-source=statics.teams.cdn.office.net

Best of 2023 from the Virtual CPA Success Show

Sun, 19 Nov 2023 23:00:00 -0600

Importance of finding a single metric to measure firm performance
Importance of exploring client budgets and validating them in the sales process
Benefits and the potential of AI for automation in business
Challenges faced by agencies in terms of burnout and stress
Importance of having a trusted advisor in your business

Episode resources:

Summit Virtual CFO by Anders website: https://www.summitcpa.net/
Email us with questions or if you’d like to be a guest on the show: vcpasuccessshow@anderscpa.com
This Quiz Will Tell You What Financial Help Your Business Needs:

https://rxkebp5191f.typeform.com/summitquiz?typeform-source=statics.teams.cdn.office.net

Don’t miss our other podcasts!
- Young CPA Success Show: https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/the-young-cpa-success-show/id1707049255
- Modern CPA Success Show: https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/the-modern-cpa-success-show/id1485035727

Strategies for Managing Longer Sales Pipelines with Simon Severino

Sun, 05 Nov 2023 23:00:00 -0600

“You don't rise to the level of your goals. You fall to the level of your systems.” -Simon Severino

The finer details of this episode:

Longer sales cycles and ghosting from potential clients
Crafting a culture of opportunity creation within agencies
Standardizing and creating standard operating procedures (SOPs) in client delivery

Episode resources:

Summit Virtual CFO by Anders website: https://www.summitcpa.net/
Email us with questions or if you’d like to be a guest on the show: vcpasuccessshow@anderscpa.com
This Quiz Will Tell You What Financial Help Your Business Needs:

https://rxkebp5191f.typeform.com/summitquiz?typeform-source=statics.teams.cdn.office.net

Recap and Takeaways from the SoDA Event in Mexico City

Sun, 22 Oct 2023 23:00:00 -0500

“I think the biggest thing is just simply mixing and mingling afterwards and sharing candid conversations on how things are going in the industry—how things are going with their shops, what's going right, what's going wrong. I think those are really the biggest takeaways that you get from really any event."– Jody Grunden

The finer details of this episode:

Trends that the agency industry is experiencing
Importance of networking with attendees and engaging outside the conference

Episode resources:

Summit Virtual CFO by Anders website: https://www.summitcpa.net/
Email us with questions or if you’d like to be a guest on the show: vcpasuccessshow@anderscpa.com
This Quiz Will Tell You What Financial Help Your Business Needs:https://rxkebp5191f.typeform.com/summitquiz?typeform-source=statics.teams.cdn.office.net
https://www.getparallax.com/
https://www.sodaspeaks.com/

Unleashing the Power of Agency Marketing with Logan Lyles

Sun, 08 Oct 2023 23:00:00 -0500

"Most agencies try to market the solution and convince clients that they're the best. What they should do is market the problem, and then they become the default solution." - Logan Lyles

The finer details of this episode:

Challenges in allocating resources for agency marketing efforts, especially during uncertain economic times
Systematic approach to generating new pipeline and positioning in the market
Leveraging people as the product and face of the brand, thought leadership, client testimonials, and case studies to build credibility and attract business

Episode resources:

Summit Virtual CFO by Anders website – https://www.summitcpa.net/
Email us with questions or if you’d like to be a guest on the show – vcpasuccessshow@anderscpa.com
This Quiz Will Tell You What Financial Help Your Business Needs! https://rxkebp5191f.typeform.com/summitquiz?typeform-source=statics.teams.cdn.office.net
Teamwork https://www.teamwork.com/
- The State of Agency Operations Report | Teamwork
https://www.linkedin.com/in/loganlyles/

Optimize Your SEO Strategy for Long-Term Success with Brandon Leibowitz

Sun, 24 Sep 2023 23:00:00 -0500

“Be patient with SEO. It takes time. It's not immediate. So if you want that immediate traction, paid ads will get you up there quickly. But over the long-term play, you have to build it up and keep building trust with Google.” - Brandon Leibowitz

The finer details of this episode:

Importance of consistency and quality in SEO
Google's algorithms focusing on quality over quantity
Considering both PPC and SEO in marketing efforts

Episode resources:

Summit Virtual CFO by Anders website – https://www.summitcpa.net/
Email us with questions or if you’d like to be a guest on the show – vcpasuccessshow@anderscpa.com
This Quiz Will Tell You What Financial Help Your Business Needs: https://rxkebp5191f.typeform.com/summitquiz?typeform-source=statics.teams.cdn.office.net
https://seooptimizers.com/
- Claim your free SEO Masterclass from Brandon: https://seooptimizers.com/gift

The Future of AI: Balancing Innovation and Ethical Considerations with Shanif Dhanani

Sun, 10 Sep 2023 23:00:00 -0500

“AI can be used to automate tasks that originally took people a lot of time to do. If you're a small business and you're growing quickly, you're probably going to be able to use automation to really hypercharge your growth. However, you have to know how to do it and implement it properly; if you're really focused on that, you can really get some good productivity going." - Shanif Dhanani

The finer details of this episode:

Ethical concerns and misconceptions about AI
Benefits of AI, such as automation and consistent performance
Potential of AI tools in improving productivity, efficiency, and automation
Advice on getting started with AI for business owners

Episode resources:

Summit Virtual CFO by Anders website – https://www.summitcpa.net/
Email us with questions or if you’d like to be a guest on the show – vcpasuccessshow@anderscpa.com
This Quiz Will Tell You What Financial Help Your Business Needs: https://rxkebp5191f.typeform.com/summitquiz?typeform-source=statics.teams.cdn.office.net
https://www.locusive.com/
https://www.linkedin.com/in/shanifdhanani/

The Power of Lean and Luxe with Crista Grasso

Sun, 03 Sep 2023 23:00:00 -0500

"We want to provide the most value that we can in our clients' lives, in the impact that we're trying to make, and the legacy we're trying to leave." - Crista Grasso

The finer details of this episode:

Finding the right support and leadership for successful scaling
Mindset shifts for business owners as they grow their businesses
Importance of systems and processes in managing a growing business

Episode resources:

Summit Virtual CFO by Anders website – https://www.summitcpa.net/
Email us with questions or if you’d like to be a guest on the show – vcpasuccessshow@anderscpa.com
This Quiz Will Tell You What Financial Help Your Business Needs: https://rxkebp5191f.typeform.com/summitquiz?typeform-source=statics.teams.cdn.office.net
https://www.leanoutmethod.com/

Balancing Creativity and Consistency in Business Systems with Josh Fonger

Sun, 27 Aug 2023 23:00:00 -0500

“Let's build a strategy based on document systems. Let's build a culture that actually wants to do this and be a part of this to make a company of continuous improvement. And then let's just give them the tools to do it.” - Josh Fonger

The finer details of this episode:

Building a system that allows for flexibility and creativity while maintaining consistency
The continuous process of system documentation and how systems can keep evolving and improving over time
Exploration of how a creative agency implemented design guidelines and systemized their work process to save time, money, and deliver better designs
Benefits of narrowing down and focusing on specific industries for design agencies

Episode resources:

Summit Virtual CFO by Anders website – https://www.summitcpa.net/
Email us with questions or if you’d like to be a guest on the show – vcpasuccessshow@anderscpa.com
This Quiz Will Tell You What Financial Help Your Business Needs!
https://wtsenterprises.com/
Josh Fonger | LinkedIn

When I Niche, You Niche, We Niche with Logan Hoffman

Sun, 20 Aug 2023 23:00:00 -0500

"Being positioned well within an industry can be really powerful. If you're good at helping the client understand that you've done this before and you understand their issues, it can be a really easy sell once you get to that point." -Logan Hoffman

The finer details of this episode:

The importance of niching and verticals: Benefits of specializing in a specific industry and how it can lead to more efficient work and higher perceived value
Different ways to find a niche: Bringing experience to the table, organic discovery, and intentional building of expertise
Advice on entering new industries: Exploring strategies for entering new industries, including documenting past successes and intentional pursuit of projects in specific spaces

Episode resources:

Summit Virtual CFO by Anders website – https://www.summitcpa.net/
Email us with questions or if you’d like to be a guest on the show – vcpasuccessshow@anderscpa.com
This Quiz Will Tell You What Financial Help Your Business Needs!
https://www.madcollective.com/
https://www.linkedin.com/in/logan-hoffman-60b75a40/

Storytelling in Agencies: Connect, Inspire, and Transform with Jeff Bartsch

Sun, 13 Aug 2023 23:00:00 -0500

"The idea of change is the primal force. It's the end that we're all looking for in terms of storylines. We want to see things change, improve, and grow; we want to have a change of mind. That is a kind of change that happens inside people's hearts and minds."

- Jeff Bartch

The finer details of this episode:

The concept of "and, but, therefore" – gateway to any kind of story structure
Exploration of the shift in accounting toward translating numbers into actionable insights and the importance of communicating the meaning behind the numbers
The importance of understanding the client's perspective

Episode resources:

Summit Virtual CFO by Anders website – https://www.summitcpa.net/
Email us with questions or if you’d like to be a guest on the show – vcpasuccessshow@anderscpa.com
This Quiz Will Tell You What Financial Help Your Business Needs!
Story Greenlight with Jeff Bartsch
Jeff Bartsch | LinkedIn

Rebranding Your Agency for Success with Todd Nienkerk

Sun, 06 Aug 2023 23:00:00 -0500

"We have real responsibilities not just to ourselves but to people and to our clients who are increasingly reliant on the work that we do." - Todd Nienkerk

The finer details of this episode:

Adoption of brand guidelines and templates within the team
Rebranding process of Four Kitchens, including working with a branding agency and defining company values
Impact of rebranding on external and internal communications

Episode resources:

Summit Virtual CFO by Anders website – https://www.summitcpa.net/
Email us with questions or if you’d like to be a guest on the show – vcpasuccessshow@anderscpa.com
Four Kitchens - Websites made with love. For good.
Todd Ross Nienkerk | LinkedIn

Embracing Asynchronous Communication with Laïla von Alvensleben

Sun, 30 Jul 2023 23:00:00 -0500

Episode Notes:

“Synchronous time is not always used wisely and people are really having meeting fatigue or feeling like they're not productive in meetings.” - Laïla von Alvensleben

The finer details of this episode:

The benefits of asynchronous communication in distributed teams
Utilizing asynchronous communication to manage workload and availability
Overcoming pushback against asynchronous communication

Episode resources:

Summit Virtual CFO by Anders website – summitcpa.net
Email us with questions or if you’d like to be a guest on the show – vcpasuccessshow@anderscpa.com
lailavon

*Laïla is no longer working at Mural.

Pick Me: How to Stand Out in the Competitive RFP Process with Lauren Minors

Sun, 23 Jul 2023 23:00:00 -0500

"Everyone's hungry’ everybody is out there trying to catch those leads. We've seen a ton of RFPs go out recently, and one thing we're seeing is that a lot of clients are not going right back with the incumbent. We've been invited to a lot of dances where the incumbents weren't part of the equation or were eliminated quickly because they're looking for new blood. So that really tells you that the RFP process is going to become more and more competitive." - Lauren Minors

The finer details of this episode:

The slow pipeline and increased competition
Retaining clients vs attracting new ones
Tracking success in RFPs and client feedback

Episode resources:

Summit Virtual CFO by Anders website – summitcpa.net
Email us with questions or if you’d like to be a guest on the show – vcpasuccessshow@anderscpa.com
Home (reasononeinc.com)
Lauren Minors | LinkedIn

Top Agency Performance Metrics with David C. Baker

Sun, 16 Jul 2023 23:00:00 -0500

"Building a solid cash cushion is super important to any successful business and to any marketing firm out there." - David C. Baker

The finer details of this episode:

Different approaches to financial management
The importance of financial planning and forecasting
Building a solid cash cushion

Episode resources:

Summit Virtual CFO by Anders website – summitcpa.net
Email us with questions or if you’d like to be a guest on the show – vcpasuccessshow@anderscpa.com
Business Insight for Expert Marketing Firms (davidcbaker.com)
David C. Baker | LinkedIn

Forecasting as a Team Sport with Tom O’Neill

Sun, 09 Jul 2023 23:00:00 -0500

"We focus not only on what a project manager would think, but how we can give that project manager a wider-angle view that they'd have if they were a COO, CEO, or CFO, so that when they're making decisions closer to the business, they're doing it with the perspective that's outside of their point of view. Because, overall, I believe that forecasting as a team is going to change your business." Tom O’Neill

The finer details of this episode:

The importance of a wider-angle view
Defining a methodology for consistent delivery of productized services, rather than micromanaging down to every single task
The need for agencies to shift from a reactive approach to a more proactive and planful approach in forecasting and resource planning

Episode resources:

Summit Virtual CFO by Anders website – summitcpa.net
Email us with questions or if you’d like to be a guest on the show – vcpasuccessshow@anderscpa.com
Capacity & Resource Planning Software | Parallax (getparallax.com)

Adapting to a Hybrid Work Environment with Tammy Bjelland

Sun, 02 Jul 2023 23:00:00 -0500

"The companies that are going to succeed in the long term, or even in the next five years, are going to be the ones that are thinking right now about how they can question the way that they're working right now and see how they might be able to adapt to become more resilient, flexible, and adaptable." - Tammy Bjelland

The finer details of this episode:

Why some companies are failing to adapt to hybrid work
Shifting to async communication
Tools for successful hybrid work

Episode resources:

Summit Virtual CFO by Anders website – summitcpa.net
Email us with questions or if you’d like to be a guest on the show – vcpasuccessshow@anderscpa.com
Tammy Bjelland
Remote Work Training | Workplaceless

Business Coaching, Staying Relevant, Achieving Success: Insight from Pinnacle Business Guides Founder Greg Cleary

Sun, 25 Jun 2023 23:00:00 -0500

"The marketplace is always changing, and you have to be willing to change with it." - Greg Cleary

The finer details of this episode:

The changing models of training and coaching businesses
The importance of having a toolbox of tools for success in today's fast-paced world.
The importance of constantly evolving and improving tools to stay ahead in business

Episode resources:

Summit Virtual CFO by Anders website – summitcpa.net
Email us with questions or if you’d like to be a guest on the show – vcpasuccessshow@anderscpa.com
Gregory Cleary | Leadership Team Coach
Click here to preorder Greg's new book

5 Pillars of Business Success: Insights from Pinnacle Business Guide Peter Van Nest

Sun, 18 Jun 2023 23:00:00 -0500

"I love working with a team that wants to climb the mountain together–from the CEO to the janitor; we're all in it together and if we do it right, we can all celebrate success when it comes.” -Peter Van Nest

The finer details of this episode:

The importance of finding the right people and putting them in the right place
The role of a strong management team in putting KPIs in place to manage business cycles and performance
The importance of understanding industry vernacular and targets

Episode resources:

Summit Virtual CFO by Anders website – summitcpa.net
Email us with questions or if you’d like to be a guest on the show – vcpasuccessshow@anderscpa.com
Crazy Good Solutions – Pinnacle Business Guide

Unlocking the Power of Soft Skills and Why it Matters in Building Successful Teams with Dan White

Sun, 11 Jun 2023 23:00:00 -0500

"Leadership is crucial to any company because the more people who want to be part of where you're going, the more successful the team's going to be." - Dan White

The finer details of this episode:

The importance of a growth mindset
The role of the leader in setting the vision and rallying the team around it
The importance of active listening, paying attention, and probing to understand motivations to build rapport

Episode resources:

Summit CPA website – summitcpa.net
Email us with questions or if you’d like to be a guest on the show – vcpasuccessshow@anderscpa.com
SMART MARKETING - Home

Building an Enduring Business: The Three Pillars of Success with Natalie Eckdahl

Sun, 04 Jun 2023 23:00:00 -0500

"I think it's really important to have a clear vision and mission for your business and to communicate that effectively to your team and your clients.” - Natalie Eckdahl

The finer details of this episode:

Lifecycle of a client: Importance a great onboarding experience and checking in with clients to maintain a good relationship
The three pillars of building an enduring business: enjoyable, profitable, and sustainable
Managing cash flow and who’s responsible for it

Episode resources:

Summit Virtual CFO by Anders website – summitcpa.net
Email us with questions or if you’d like to be a guest on the show – vcpasuccessshow@anderscpa.com
Home - BizChix

AI's Influence on the Agency Industry: Disruption or Enhancement? With JP Holecka

Sun, 28 May 2023 23:00:00 -0500

“I think that there's going to be agencies that will come out of this as a new niche–super AI agencies that get you to market faster. But humans are the last line of defense between whether the creativity works or whether it’s just data driven because AI doesn't have any ideas. It just sits there waiting for an input; it still needs the spark of human creativity.” - JP Holecka

The finer details of this episode:

Impact of AI on work and skills
Importance of ethics in technology
The emergence of AI-focused agencies

Episode resources:

Summit CPA website – summitcpa.net
Email us with questions or if you’d like to be a guest on the show – vcpasuccessshow@anderscpa.com
Power Shifter

The Future of Meetings and Events with Tommy Nolan

Sun, 21 May 2023 23:00:00 -0500

“In-person events are not gonna go away. Just like the virtual component is not going away. I think that we've just adapted and learned new ways to communicate through covid. And the convenience of having a virtual option is very appealing to our clients. We can get the message across to thousands of associates company wide, while saving thousands of dollars. I don't think it's ever gonna go back to the way it was.” - Tommy Nolan

Finer details of the episode:

Virtual vs in-person conferences
Maintaining company culture in a hybrid workplace
Lessons learned from remote work

Episode Resources:

Summit CPA website – summitcpa.net
Email us with questions or if you’d like to be a guest on the show – vcpasuccessshow@anderscpa.com
Vidionix | Video, Virtual, Hybrid, Onsite Production Experts

Productizing Services for Agency Growth with Ernesto Tagwerker

Sun, 14 May 2023 23:00:00 -0500

“The idea of productizing a service is creating a category for something that you do really well and marketing it as it is.” - Ernesto Tagwerker

The finer details of this episode:

Productizing services and scaling businesses
Remote company culture: Benefits, team retreats, and working across time zones
Niching down and pricing strategies for productized services
Qualifying leads for product type services

Episode resources:

Summit CPA website – summitcpa.net
Email us with questions or if you’d like to be a guest on the show – vcpasuccessshow@anderscpa.com
OmbuLabs :: The Lean Software Boutique

Fostering Human Connection Through Strategic Storytelling with Jeff Bartsch

Sun, 07 May 2023 23:00:00 -0500

“When you take ordinary messages and you elevate them into something extraordinary, incredible things happen. And the even cooler part is that you can do the exact same thing in business. You can take what some people might consider ordinary or boring, and you connect humanity to it, which can literally drive results in your business through the process.” - Jeff Bartsch

The finer details of this episode:

Using storytelling in business communication
Unlocking the power of storytelling for business success
Crafting tailored presentations for different audiences

Episode resources:

Summit CPA website – www.summitcpa.net
Email us with questions or if you’d like to be a guest on the show – vcpasuccessshow@anderscpa.com
Story Greenlight

Exploring Leadership Styles with Robert Jordan

Sun, 30 Apr 2023 23:00:00 -0500

“Over the course of your career, the more that you can reject what you feel is not for your highest and best use, the better off you're gonna be. Your decisions become more and more intentional; you choose A over B, C over D. And that is a process of coming to your own highest and best use. What happens over time is that, as your career goes on, you have more and more success. ” - Robert Jordan

The finer details of this episode:

Characteristics of exceptional leaders
Exploring the different leadership styles of entrepreneurs and founders
What kind of leader are you: fixer, artist, builder, and strategist?

Episode resources:

Summit CPA website – www.summitcpa.net
Email us with questions or if you’d like to be a guest on the show – vcpasuccessshow@anderscpa.com
Interim Executives | Interim Management Services (interimexecs.com)
Home - Right Leader

Navigating The Challenges of Agency Life with Russel Dubree

Sun, 23 Apr 2023 23:00:00 -0500

“There are so many agency owners doing great work, and I think if they can solve some of these challenges that are inherently hard for an agency, they can actually get back to why they started their agency, which is to do good creative work or to make a difference. That helps eliminate so many of those business challenges that I think either forces a lot of agencies to shut their doors or make people tired. If you can position your agency and learn to be truly effective and provide value, I think it inherently solves some of those challenges.” –Russel Dubree

The finer details of this episode:

Unique challenges of running a creative marketing agency
Benefits of having a business coach for agency owners
Leveraging unique strengths and thought leadership to generate leads

Episode resources:

Summit CPA website – summitcpa.net
Email us with questions – vcfo@summitcpa.net
Russel Dubree - Growth Advisor - Performance Faction

Legal Strategies For Protecting Your Brand, Content, and Transactions with Sharon Toerek

Sun, 09 Apr 2023 23:00:00 -0500

“I love having the opportunity to help an agency owner see how much easier their lives can be, how much bigger their bank accounts can be, if they put a little time and attention into being proactive about putting measures in place, such as making sure their teams are well trained about the legal issues that matter to them and the work that they put out every day.” -Sharon Toerek

The finer details of this episode:

Benefits of proactive contract management for agency owners
Exploring Common mistakes in agency legal contracts
The benefits of working with a lawyer who understands your business and industry

Episode resources:

Summit CPA website – summitcpa.net
Email us with questions – vcfo@summitcpa.net
Legal + Creative (legalandcreative.com)

Bootstrapping and Building a Portfolio of Agencies with JD Graffam

Sun, 26 Mar 2023 23:00:00 -0500

“If I’ve learned anything in my agency journey, it’s to figure out your numbers. It took us probably two years to dial in the formulas and figure out what we wanted to see when we looked at theoretical revenue generated. And now we know what works for the business, and we check our metrics once a month.” – JD Graffam

The finer details of this episode:

Benefits and risks of agency life
Importance of understanding your business’s financials and metrics

Resources:

Summit CPA website – summitcpa.net
Email us with questions – vcfo@summitcpa.net
Simple Focus | Web Design, Interface Design, User Experience

Understanding the Silicon Valley Bank Issue: What Digital Agencies Need to Know

Mon, 20 Mar 2023 16:47:07 -0500

Episode Notes:

“Any business, whether it's startup, tech, any business across the board, should really have a strategy of diversification of the funds that they don't particularly need on a 90-day basis to a six-month basis. If they've got that cash flow, let's start to diversify the rest of those funds.” –Paul Rhea

The finer details of this episode:

Risk vs. Reward: Diversifying funds for optimal returns
Exploring strategies for diversifying excess cash
Bank protection strategies for business owners
Bank security and diversification strategies

Episode resources:

Summit CPA website – summitcpa.net
Email us with questions – vcfo@summitcpa.net

"What if There's More?" with Traci Barrett

Sun, 12 Mar 2023 23:00:00 -0500

“I talk to a lot of business owners who have created something fabulous, and sometimes it becomes stale to them because they don't understand what their place is now that they've scaled their company. I hope this book will help them reconnect with their ‘why’ and reconnect with who they are so that they can play a new, fresh role in their company. Or maybe go ahead and follow that next dream and start the next company.” – Traci Barrett

The finer details of this episode:

The importance of leadership, recognizing potential, and finding new ways to grow.
Following your dreams at any point in your career and making necessary changes to achieve them.
Exploring the mid-career crossroads and how to live a meaningful life beyond just checking all the boxes and going through predetermined mile markers.

Episode resources:

Summit CPA website – summitcpa.net
Email us with questions – vcfo@summitcpa.net
Traci Schubert Barrett
Navigate The Journey

Outsourced HR Solutions with John Baldino

Sun, 26 Feb 2023 23:00:00 -0600

“If an organization views human resources as the “HR police” that only values and enforces compliance, it's a disservice not only to HR as a discipline, but to each employee's experience of what work ought to be like.” – John Baldino

The finer details of this episode:

Career mapping vs. one career map
Human resources as a service, not a department
Boomerang employees and adding skillsets for opportunities

Episode resources:

Summit CPA website – summitcpa.net
Email us with questions – vcfo@summitcpa.net
Human Resources Outsourced, and more. - Humareso

Get Agency Insight from Agency Outsight with Steve Guberman

Sun, 12 Feb 2023 23:00:00 -0600

“I think right now the biggest problem is people, whether it's hiring or internal leadership challenges—people understanding how to lead generational shifts, work-from-home shifts, or cultural shifts. So, people in general is a constant; turnover is huge right now. The job market in the agency space is very cutthroat. People are getting stolen from agencies at premiums.” Steve Guberman

The finer details of this episode:

Today’s biggest challenges in the digital agency industry
Benefits of having a coach for agency owners (culture, leadership, operations, procedures, growth, etc.)
Evaluating the health of your agency and when to bring in a coach

Episode resources:

Summit CPA website – summitcpa.net
Email us with questions – vcfo@summitcpa.net
Outsight (agencyoutsight.com)

Discover Why You Need Agile Leaders in Your Business with Chuck Mollor

Sun, 29 Jan 2023 23:00:00 -0600

“Don't stop challenging yourself. It's really easy to get comfortable, especially if your business is doing well. We always need to be pushing and stretching ourselves and thinking about our mindset. Look for what's changing and stay open to that; be receptive to changing what we do and how we do it.” – Chuck Mollor

The finer details of this episode:

Understanding how leadership roles have changed so dramatically over the past decade
Establishing trust and building relationship with your team in a virtual environment
Implementing resources like a business coach and time-management practices to boost both morale and success within your business

Episode resources:

Summit CPA website – summitcpa.net
Email us with questions – vcfo@summitcpa.net
Chuck Mollor – The Rise of the Agile Leader

Getting Things Done® with David Allen

Sun, 15 Jan 2023 23:00:00 -0600

“GTD® doesn't deliver a solution; it delivers hope. How much people want to take advantage of that is up to them. GTD® and implementing these best practices—capture, clarify, organized, reflect, and engage—of how you get stuff under control in your life and work, they don't give you more time. They give you more room. What you do with that room is unique to you.” – David Allen

The finer details of this episode:

• Meeting management and setting boundaries for back-to-back meetings

• The need for GTD® in a team environment—not just individually

• The importance of setting and understanding what your priorities are

Episode resources:

• Summit CPA website – summitcpa.net

• Email us with questions – vcfo@summitcpa.net

• Getting Things Done® – https://gettingthingsdone.com/

Improve Your Hiring Strategy With Jamie Van Cuyk

Sun, 01 Jan 2023 23:00:00 -0600

I learned that most small business owners never hired before doing it within their own business, or they were coming from corporate jobs where they had HR departments, senior leaderships, and job postings that were already created. They were pretty much being given everything that they needed, and now that they needed to create it on their own, they were lost.”

– Jamie Van Cuyk

The finer details of this episode:

How to improve your hiring strategy
How to know when an employee isn’t a good fit in a position
How to find the right candidate when it’s time to hire

Episode resources:

Summit CPA website – summitcpa.net
Email us with questions – vcfo@summitcpa.net
Jamie’s website – GrowingYourTeam.com

Agency Profitability With Marcel Petitpas

Sun, 18 Dec 2022 23:00:00 -0600

“Think of us like bookkeepers for your non-financial data. We've essentially built QuickBooks for time tracking and project management data. It's an environment where we can more efficiently do this type of analysis and quality assurance.” – Marcel Petitpas

The finer details of this episode:

The importance of time tracking and data analysis
What is the right amount of data to track and study
Structured versus unstructured data

Episode resources:

Summit CPA website – summitcpa.net
Email us with questions – vcfo@summitcpa.net
Marcel Petitpas | Agency Profitability Expert

Find Success With the 4-Day Work Week With Morgan Witham

Sun, 04 Dec 2022 23:00:00 -0600

“We got some really great results in terms of a lot of the things that we were kind of hypothesizing and wanted to see. Employee stress level went down and feelings of burnout went down by a magnitude of almost 20%. Personal satisfaction went up 25%.” – Morgan Witham

The finer details of this episode:

How to pilot a four-day work week schedule
What factors play a part in moving to a four-day work week
Understanding the pros and cons of a four-day work week schedule, such as clients’ needs and employee performance

Episode resources:

Summit CPA website – summitcpa.net
Email us with questions – vcfo@summitcpa.net
COLAB – teamcolab.com
Agency Example of a Reimagined, 4-Day Workweek in Action - COLAB (teamcolab.com)

Achieve Business Growth Using Your Caveman Brain with Dr. Jean Oursler

Sun, 20 Nov 2022 23:00:00 -0600

Episode Notes:

“Everyone has Caveman Brain, and once you know how to harness it and focus it, you can be super successful.” – Dr. Jean Oursler

The finer details of this episode:

Understand what Caveman Brain is and how to put it to use for business success
Know who your target audience is and be able to easily identify them
Close a new client with less follow-up

Resources:

Summit CPA website – summitcpa.net
Email us with questions – vcfo@summitcpa.net
Dr. Jean Oursler –cavemanbrain.com

Improve Efficiency with Custom Software with Ian Robinson

Sun, 06 Nov 2022 23:00:00 -0600

“People don't want to make changes. And a lot of times, we've normalized using software that doesn't understand us and doesn't understand what we want out of it. We expect to have to adapt ourselves to software. At Enliven, we believe it shouldn’t be that way.” -Ian Robinson

The finer details of this episode:

The importance of creating processes and software that lasts
Gauging how employees interact with software and understanding their respective needs to complete their tasks
Understand how custom software can improve inefficiencies in your business

Episode resources:

Summit CPA website – summitcpa.net
Email us with questions – vcfo@summitcpa.net
Ian Robinson – enlivenhq.com

Learn Emotional Magnetism with Sandy Gerber

Sun, 23 Oct 2022 23:00:00 -0500

“I came across this emotional appeal theory, and this is something that was developed in the sixties; there’s lots of research behind it. And essentially their thesis is, we are all motivated by one of four emotional needs, and that drives all our decisions in life—not just in your personal life, but your career, your hobbies, every single decision you make. This really resonated with me.” Sandy Gerber

The finer details of this episode:

• Learn which emotional magnet best suits you: Safety, achievement, value, or experience

• How to understand emotional magnetism in your life to experience better relationships

• Being able to interact with others personally and professionally and meet their needs based on their emotional magnets

Episode resources:

Summit CPA website – summitcpa.net

Email us with questions – vcfo@summitcpa.net

Sandy Gerber – sandygerber.com

Moving From EOS to Pinnacle with Tom Barrett

Sun, 09 Oct 2022 23:00:00 -0500

“There are timeless concepts and universal principles that work in businesses across the board. At Pinnacle, we've taken this best-of-the-best approach and created a model with very specific tools and a process.”– Tom Barrett

The finer details of this episode:

How can the Pinnacle platform help businesses overcome obstacles and achieve better functionally?
How to leverage the Pinnacle system to grow your team with the right people
Accessing tools and resources from Pinnacle’s “Endless Toolbox” to customize a growth plan for business
How can a business operating system improve your business model?

Episode resources:

Summit CPA website –www.summitcpa.net
Email us with questions – vcfo@summitcpa.net
Tom Barrett –pinnaclebusinessguides.com/guide/tom-barrett and navigatethejourney.com

Quiet Quitting with Chris Williams and Josh Jeans

Mon, 26 Sep 2022 07:00:00 -0500

“Long before COVID, people were feeling frustrated, particularly younger people who were feeling like the market was leaving them behind. Then, along came COVID, which completely shook the entire job market. And it sent people home to sit on their couch and think about themselves and what they're doing. The pandemic shook the market and caused there to be some realization on the part of the employees that maybe they weren't getting everything out of this bargain.” – Chris Williams

The finer details of this episode:

How to navigate the current marketplace for employment opportunities
Being able to reflect on current employment circumstances and understand alternative options
How to stop compromising personal situations for the sake of a career
Being able to cultivate a good leadership team

Episode resources:

Summit CPA website –www.summitcpa.net
Email us with questions – vcfo@summitcpa.net
Chris Williams – clwill.com

Financial Tools for Remote Companies

Mon, 12 Sep 2022 07:45:00 -0500

In this episode, Jamie Nau, our host and Summit CPA's Director of Accounting, sits down with Adam Hale, Partner at Anders CPAs + Advisors, and Jake Grimm, Summit CPA's Director of Technology, to discuss financial tools for remote and distributed companies. If you are a business owner of a fully distributed company, this episode is for you! Jamie, Adam, and Jake discuss must-have tools to implement in your remote business to help it run efficiently and grow it to the next level.

The finer details of this episode :

How to choose the best technology for your remote business
How to leverage technology in a remote world
Being a business owner or member of leadership of a remote business
Being a fully distributed, start-up company and implementing the right tools to run your business

Episode resources

Summit CPA website - www.summitcpa.net
Email us with questions - vcfo@summitcpa.net

Overcoming Awkward, Winning Clients, and Influencing People With Monica Parkin

Thu, 01 Sep 2022 08:36:26 -0500

"I'm just authentic me. When I meet people, I don't talk about me and what I can do for you and what I do for a living. Ask questions about other people, like: Why are you here? What made you wanna do this business? What can you offer? Who can I connect you to?

It's adding value to other people. And one thing I've figured out is people notice people who notice them. Simple little things like giving someone else a shout out or sharing their post or saying, "Hey, I saw you the other day. That was great." It's bringing that sense of community into everything you do." - Monica Parkin

The finer details of this episode :

How to choose something that you're passionate about
How to contribute to your community in order for your business to thrive
Being a good listener and asking intentional questions
Being authentic when building your brand and networking

Episode resources

Summit CPA website - www.summitcpa.net
Email us with questions - vcfo@summitcpa.net
Monica Parkin - Courtenay Mortgage Specialist | Monica Parkin, Mortgage Specialist

Why Networking on LinkedIn is More Important Now Than Ever with Donna Serdula

Wed, 17 Aug 2022 10:20:00 -0500

"When you showcase your best, you attract the best." - Donna Serdula.

The finer details of this episode :

Why is LinkedIn an essential tool to grow your network?
Practical tips build your brand on LinkedIn.
Understanding your purpose on LinkedIn and using your purpose to achieve success.

Episode resources

Summit CPA website - www.summitcpa.net
Email us with questions - cpa@summitcpa.net

Lessons Learned in Client Onboarding

Tue, 02 Aug 2022 12:54:49 -0500

"Honestly, the way we've structured our kickoff call week. 80% of the kickoff call, just letting the CFO and the client kind of start to have those conversations, which is huge. We listen and we hear the things that are most important to them." - Lydia Rapp

The finer details of this episode :

What are we doing now that we haven't done before?
Why you should have a client onboarding process in place
What are the important things to consider when building an onboarding client?

Episode resources

Summit CPA website - www.summitcpa.net
Email us with questions - cpa@summitcpa.net

How to Manage Change and Thrive in it with Douglas Ferguson

Wed, 20 Jul 2022 14:52:11 -0500

"I think a lot of it has to be started through exploration because if we don't start with a mindset around exploration and learning...If we're just changing for the sake of changing, then we really, we're not coming from an informed perspective." - Douglas Ferguson

The finer details of this episode :

The mindset and behavior that is essential to change management in an organization
What do businesses need to do? What strategies should they put in place?
How important is having a culture of curiosity?
How should change management need to change as the company gets larger?

Episode resources

Summit CPA website - www.summitcpa.net
Email us with questions - vcfo@summitcpa.net
Voltage Control website - voltagecontrol.com

Selling Creative Services with Danielle Hendricks of Pixo

Tue, 28 Jun 2022 13:56:31 -0500

"I never thought I'd be in sales for this long and you know - 16 years later here I still am in a sales role, but I've made it my own because I've made it myself. I've made it genuine. I have made it about relationships, about people, about trust, and about the thing, I'm passionate and believe in." - Danielle Hendricks

The finer details of this episode :

The business development and sales process of Pixo
How does Pixo work on pushbacks between the business development, operations, and finance departments
How important is the organizational culture in employee retention? How does Pixo communicate culture in their day-to-day activities?

Episode resources

Summit CPA website - www.summitcpa.net
Email us with questions - vcfo@summitcpa.net
Pixo website - www.pixotech.com

How to Know Your Company Needs a Virtual CFO with James Enney

Wed, 15 Jun 2022 15:22:00 -0500

"It's amazing to watch their creative process in the agency space, they generally are very skilled at what they do (but) it's the financial piece that mystifies them, somewhat. And, even if they understand it, many of them have a very solid understanding, they don't have the tools that we have, and they don't have the backgrounds that we have. Were some things may be a little bit more obvious, so it'd be able to bring them ideas." - James Enney

The finer details of this episode :

What are the signs a business owner should know to tell them that they need a Virtual CFO?
Why are a budget and a forecast important for business owners?
What should a business owner consider before hiring a Virtual CFO?

Episode resources

Summit CPA website - www.summitcpa.net
Email us with questions - vcfo@summitcpa.net

Top Challenges for Digital Agencies and How to Overcome Them with Carl Smith

Thu, 02 Jun 2022 12:40:37 -0500

"Give yourself little wins and celebrate them, but ultimately, make sure you know where you're going to, not just what you're running from. " - Carl Smith

The finer details of this episode :

What are the latest trends in the digital agency space?
How has the industry changed since the start of the pandemic until now?
With all the shifts happening in the industry, what should business owners remember and consider as they run their businesses?

Episode resources

Summit CPA website - www.summitcpa.net
Email us with questions - vcfo@summitcpa.net

Building the Firm of the Future with Anders

Wed, 25 May 2022 10:00:25 -0500

"From my perspective, when I look at what businesses need today, I think it's absolutely positioned for massive growth." - Dave Hartley

The finer details of this episode :

What does the future look like for Summit after the merger with Anders?
What does the firm of the future look like?
What value will the merger bring to our clients?

Episode resources

Summit CPA website - www.summitcpa.net
Email us with questions - vcfo@summitcpa.net

Current State of Travel for Team Retreats

Tue, 03 May 2022 10:54:00 -0500

"One thing I'm seeing is a lot more confidence from distributed teams that still value in-person connection and are wanting to create a really memorable experience." - Lily Hocevar

The finer details of this episode :

What has changed in the travel landscape since 2020?
The impact of location choice, planning ahead, and culture in planning and pricing
What important things you should consider as you plan your team retreat

Episode resources

Summit CPA website - www.summitcpa.net
Email us with questions - vcfo@summitcpa.net

Summit CPA has Joined Anders!

Mon, 11 Apr 2022 18:26:56 -0500

" Just because things are going well doesn't mean they can't be better. So that's what we try to live by. " - Robert Minkler Jr.

The finer details of this episode :

The merger story of Summit CPA and Anders
How the merger benefits both Summit CPA and Anders
What stakeholders should expect with the merger

Episode resources

Summit CPA website - www.summitcpa.net
Email us with questions - vcfo@summitcpa.net
Summit CPA Group to Merge with Anders CPA + Advisors

Experiencing Bureau of Digital Events with Ashley Vaughn

Mon, 28 Mar 2022 18:52:56 -0500

"Going to the Bureau events was well...One, it's a lot of fun. There's always something to do. And two, they're just a great learning experience. It was great training. " - Ashley Vaughn

The finer details of this episode :

How did Ashley adapt coming from a tax background to providing consulting and Virtual CFO services to digital agencies
How attending the Bureau of Digital Owner Camp and Owner Summit help her as a Virtual CFO
Trends in the digital space that are important to agency owners and how Summit Virtual CFO's use this information
The difference between the Bureau of Digital Owner Camp and Owner Summit

Episode resources

Summit CPA website - www.summitcpa.net
Email us with questions - vcfo@summitcpa.net

How to Communicate With Your Clients in Plain English with Peter Margaritis

Thu, 17 Mar 2022 17:33:33 -0500

"We have to realize that we speak this technical language riddled with acronyms, that when our audience isn't like us, we need to find a way to translate it into plain English. So there's understanding." - Peter Margaritis

The finer details of this episode :

How to connect and become relatable when discussing technical terms with clients
Tips and tricks to remember when communicating with clients from different industries
Importance of communicating clearly to achieve a common goal

Episode resources

Summit CPA website - www.summitcpa.net
Email us with questions - vcfo@summitcpa.net
The Accidental Accountant website - www.petermargaritis.com/

Run Your Business Like You're Ready to Sell

Mon, 28 Feb 2022 17:43:00 -0600

"Sometimes we get so caught up in the sales and the revenue side of the business that we take our eye off some of the cost side of the business... You know, one of the phrases we use is that 'revenue hides mistakes or revenue hides problems'. So if your revenue has been growing, your cash has been good there still might be some opportunity to trim your costs" - Greg Wallis

The finer details of this episode :

What does it mean to run your business like you're ready to sell it? Views from a financial perspective and a decisions perspective
What you need to consider before selling
The role of forecasting in decision making
Different business scenarios before selling
Different acquisition types

Episode resources

Summit CPA website - www.summitcpa.net
Email us with questions - vcfo@summitcpa.net

How Courtney DeRonde Empowers Business Owners for Greater Financial Success

Tue, 15 Feb 2022 18:24:00 -0600

"Where we provide a lot of value and solve a lot of problems is when clients have made it past startup and then that growth stage, they're starting to realize they can't keep all the numbers in their head anymore." - Courtney DeRonde

The finer details of this episode :

Who is Courtney DeRonde? What does TDT CPAs and Advisors do?
What similarities and differences does TDT CPAs and Advisors have with Summit CPA Group?
How does these similarities and differences benefit their clients?

Episode resources

Summit CPA website - www.summitcpa.net
Email us with questions - vcfo@summitcpa.net

Lessons Learned in Client Onboarding

Mon, 31 Jan 2022 07:00:00 -0600

The finer details of this episode :

What are we doing now that we haven't done before?
Why you should have a client onboarding process in place
What are the important things to consider when building an onboarding client?

Episode resources

Summit CPA website - www.summitcpa.net
Email us with questions - vcfo@summitcpa.net

Virtual CPA Success Show's Best of 2021

Tue, 25 Jan 2022 18:27:06 -0600

"This information is really important for us in terms of organizing and planning our podcast going into 2022. So we wanted to let the listeners know what 2022 is going to look like." - Jamie Nau

The finer details of this episode :

What are the top performing podcasts episodes on the Virtual CPA Success Show in 2021?
What three topics drive more podcast downloads?
Why did these topics perform well?

Top 10 Episodes:

Episode resources

Summit CPA website - www.summitcpa.net
Email us with questions - vcfo@summitcpa.net

Developing a Team of Constant Learners

Wed, 19 Jan 2022 07:00:00 -0600

"The end of curiosity is that understanding and it's engagement. And if we get to that and then we're going to increase our quality of interactions with our internal stakeholders and with our teammates, we're going to increase the quality of the service we provide to our clients because we are fully engaged. We are better understanding who, who they are and what they want." - Josh Jeans

The finer details of this episode :

What having curiosity means to Summit CPA Group?
In the hiring process, what are Summit CPA's best practices that help qualify candidates who imbibes the core value curiosity?
How is curiosity a learned skill and how do we hone it?
How does curiosity contribute to developing a team of constant learners?

Episode resources

Summit CPA website - www.summitcpa.net
Email us with questions - vcfo@summitcpa.net

Best Advice for Remote First Companies

Tue, 21 Dec 2021 15:53:57 -0600

"Just do it. It's one of those things that if you think about it and you try and make it perfect it never will be. No one working in the office will ever be perfect. So (it's always) come out of your comfort zone and step into the risky area and go remote. You just have to do it." - Jody Grunden

The finer details of this episode :

What to consider and what to prepare for before going remote
How to start and how to maintain a remote workplace
What helped Summit CPA Group? (Tools, processes, people management)
People management strategies Summit CPA Group implemented - what works and what doesn't

Episode resources

Summit CPA website - www.summitcpa.net
Email us with questions - vcfo@summitcpa.net

Organization Reinvention with Fabiaan van Vrekhem

Wed, 24 Nov 2021 15:26:39 -0600

"Today, it's about rethinking your business model to adjust to new societal needs because society has evolved, science has evolved, what makes sense and what doesn't make sense in society has evolved and will further evolve." - Fabiaan van Vrekhem

The finer details of this episode :

Definition of Organization Reinvention
What approach you need to take when reinventing your organization?
What questions to ask and consider before reinventing your organization?
The difference between a roadblock and a wrong turn
How organization reinvention impacts people management

Episode resources

Summit CPA website - www.summitcpa.net
Email us with questions - vcfo@summitcpa.net
Email Fabiaan - fabiaan.van.vrekhem@accordgroup.be
Purchase Fabiaan's book on Amazon - Disruption@Work

Cloud-based Forecasting with Jirav

Tue, 12 Oct 2021 15:25:42 -0500

"This is another really great thing about using an online platform like this - you could have a support person who has never seen your model be able to figure out what's going on in like five or 10 minutes versus like taking all afternoon to figure it out in an Excel." - Martin Zych

The finer details of this episode :

What is Jirav? How does Jirav help Summit CPA serve our clients better?
Why did Summit CPA decide to move to Jirav?
How Jirav helps Summit CPA as a cloud-based forecasting solution
What are Jirav's features that will make you consider shifting to a cloud-based forecasting solution?

Episode resources

Summit CPA website - www.summitcpa.net
Email us with questions - vcfo@summitcpa.net
Jirav website -www.jirav.com

The Great Resignation Part 2

Wed, 29 Sep 2021 18:14:26 -0500

"You have got to understand everyone on your team's unique ability and best and highest contribution and put that to work. Create a place where they can make a meaningful contribution given their motivations and their unique abilities." - Zach Montroy

The finer details of this episode :

What to consider if you want to keep your people
Understanding the needs and motivations of people
Compensation and benefits - how important benefits come into play
How personalization of benefits has helped Summit CPA

Episode resources

Summit CPA website - www.summitcpa.net
Email us with questions - vcfo@summitcpa.net

The Great Resignation

Wed, 15 Sep 2021 10:02:13 -0500

"We're seeing it all across different disciplines, all different types of employment and what we're finding is that people are quitting - and that really started from probably I'd say January and still continuing on through today - where they're quitting for all kinds of reasons" - Jody Grunden

The finer details of this episode

What is "The Great Resignation"?
What are the reasons behind this phenomenon?
What companies can do to take the employee retention to the next level?
Finding candidates, the evaluation process and preventing no-shows.

Episode resources

Summit CPA website - www.summitcpa.net
Email us with questions - vcfo@summitcpa.net

Value-Based Pricing with Geraldine Carter

Wed, 01 Sep 2021 10:11:13 -0500

"In order to get at value for your clients, it's helpful to think of the three questions that you can. Why now, why me and why this way. " - Geraldine Carter

The finer details of this episode

What is Value-Based Pricing?
Why digital agencies should consider Value-Based Pricing
What questions to ask when pricing your services according to value

Episode resources

Summit CPA website - www.summitcpa.net
Email us with questions - vcfo@summitcpa.net
She Thinks Big website - www.shethinksbigcoaching.com

Finding Your Niche & Becoming a Thought Leader

Wed, 18 Aug 2021 09:47:04 -0500

“In terms of passionate, absolutely essential as there's a rule in the practice of thought leadership, that your audience will never be more interested in your topic than you. So you have to choose something that you're going to be excited to talk about for the next five or 10 years.” - - Bill Sherman

The finer details of this episode

What is thought leadership?
What questions should you ask yourself before you start?
Steps you need to take before you launch your brand's thought leadership
Thought leadership and its correlation to passion, relevance and responsibility

Episode resources

Summit CPA website - www.summitcpa.net
Email us with questions - vcfo@summitcpa.net
Thought Leadership Leverage website - https://thoughtleadershipleverage.com/

Building Communities and Learning From Your Peers

Thu, 05 Aug 2021 12:01:31 -0500

“Make it easy for them to say yes and dont make it anything about making money. Make it about making connections and launching the ship in a direction with the right people where everybody understands that this is about getting better together.” - Carl Smith

The finer details of this episode

What does Bureau of Digital do? How did they start this community?
How to manage members of the community that are competitors or in the same market?
What you need to do/prepare to start your own community
How to build a community of highly engaged professionals and retaining the members

Episode resources

Summit CPA website - www.summitcpa.net
Email us with questions - vcfo@summitcpa.net
Bureau of Digital website - www.bureauofdigital.com

Planning Memorable Company Retreats for Remote Companies (Part 2 Live from Las Vegas)

Thu, 22 Jul 2021 15:58:13 -0500

"I think being in my role one of the things I've seen is the fact that we haven't had this conference for a full year. I think it definitely affects the morale" - Jamie Nau

The finer details of this episode

Difference between Director and CFO retreat and why it's important to have both
Purpose and benefits of team retreats
Process of organizing team retreats
Impact of team retreats to employee morale
Difference of team retreats for remote vs. non-remote companies

Episode resources

Summit CPA website - www.summitcpa.net
Email us with questions - vcfo@summitcpa.net
YouTube Link

Planning Memorable Company Retreats for Remote Companies (Part 1)

Wed, 07 Jul 2021 16:23:11 -0500

"I really think what Summit has created, and Jody and Adam have created together is something unique; and also is something that should be looked at by other companies and replicated with how they treat their employees and creating that connection in a very remote working environment" - Lillian Hocevar

The finer details of this episode

Postmortem discussion of the Director's Retreat
When to include family members in company retreats
Selecting the perfect location for retreats that include family members
Ultimate goal of company retreats
What are the 6 Working Geniuses? How did Summit use this information to help teams

Episode resources

Summit CPA website - www.summitcpa.net
Email us with questions - vcfo@summitcpa.net

Developing a Growth Marketing Strategy with Dev Basu

Tue, 25 May 2021 18:37:44 -0500

"It's actually easy to be cheap and it's easy to be a generalist. It's relatively hard to be narrow because you have to take that leap of faith and suspend your disbelief that you'll be pigeonholed into only working with a specific kind of client or selling a specific kind of product" - Dev Basu

The finer details of this episode

What is Powered by Search? How does it help businesses and agencies?
Why is narrowing your niche an important first step?
Common mistakes business/agencies make
How positioning affects pricing and perceived value

Episode resources

Summit CPA website - www.summitcpa.net
Email us with questions - vcfo@summitcpa.net
Tweet Dev - www.twitter.com/devbasu
Powered by Search - www.poweredbysearch.com

Deep Dive with Virtual CFO Client Tiffany Farriss of Palantir

Mon, 10 May 2021 15:24:28 -0500

“We were built to a certain kind of project, that they weren't looking from us anymore. We had to really reshape the firm and it was a really painful moment. So we really had to learn and step back.” - Tiffany Farriss

The finer details of this episode

Growth as an outcome of success not as a metric
The challenges that influenced the changes for Palantir
How long does it take to create a 360 shift within the organization
How a virtual CFO was able to help them through challenging times

Episode resources

Summit CPA website - www.summitcpa.net
Email us with questions - vcfo@summitcpa.net
Palantir website - www.palantir.net

Developing Systems to Scale Your Business with David Jenyns (Part 2)

Tue, 27 Apr 2021 15:58:26 -0500

Quote

“That's what systems do. They enable you to solve problems once, and then the business over can move over to the next problem which should be a higher level” - David Jenyns

The finer details of this episode

The need for a Business Systems Champion in your organization
How systems shape business cultures
The impact and change systems bring to a business
Getting your teams onboard with changes in business systems

Episode resources

Summit CPA website - www.summitcpa.net
Email us with questions - vcfo@summitcpa.net
David's website - davidjenyns.com

Developing Systems to Scale Your Business with David Jenyns (Part 1)

Fri, 16 Apr 2021 12:47:20 -0500

Quote

“All the business owners that I chat with, every single one of them, I don't think we'd ever had a discussion where we haven't come to the conclusion that business systems are important.” - David Jenyns

The finer details of this episode

Why business systems are important
How SYSTEMology is different from process improvement practices
What business owners should do to get started
Key practices to adopt for better business systems

Episode resources

Summit CPA website - www.summitcpa.net
Email us with questions - vcfo@summitcpa.net
David's website - davidjenyns.com

Pulse of the Industry with Tom Beck

Mon, 22 Mar 2021 14:28:04 -0500

“Certainly, confidence never recovered to the levels that we would see. And even most of the members that I talked with, who even ended having a good year, expressed that it was volatile and uncertain throughout the year.” - Tom Beck

The finer details of this episode

What's going on in the Digital Marketing Agency industry?
What industry trends emerged over the past year
Overview of the 2020 Agency Tracking Study by SoDA
High-level understanding of the Pricing Models as presented in SoDA's research findings

Episode resources

Summit CPA website - www.summitcpa.net
Email us with questions - vcfo@summitcpa.net
SoDa website - www.sodaspeaks.com

Establish Smarter Ways of Working for you and your Clients with Bill.Com

Thu, 11 Mar 2021 16:36:54 -0600

"You have an opportunity to digitally transform your clients' life." - Pete Potsos

The finer details of this episode

What is Bill.com?
How Bill.com helped Summit CPA revolutionize their processes
Features can help you and your clients
How you can improve your own practice using the Bill.com platform

Episode resources

Summit CPA website - www.summitcpa.net
Email us with questions - vcfo@summitcpa.net
Bill.com website - www.bill.com

Choosing Vendors with Jake Grimm

Tue, 23 Feb 2021 17:28:26 -0600

"In our industry, we're always looking at what can save time and what's not going to break down all the time” - Jody Grunden

The finer details of this episode

Understanding your company's needs to find the right solution for you
How to choose the best vendor for your company
Things to consider before saying "yes" to a vendor
How Summit CPA Group weeds out all proposals to find the best one

Episode resources

Summit CPA website - www.summitcpa.net
Email us with questions - vcfo@summitcpa.net

Exploring Video Marketing Strategies to Grow Your Business

Mon, 08 Feb 2021 19:24:41 -0600

Quote

“If you want to be a big business that continues to grow with some scale, then you need to learn how to use these.” - Stephen Pope

The finer details of this episode

How video helps you connect to your audience
Why it's important to incorporate a video marketing strategy into your social media and other marketing efforts in general
How to be comfortable in video
Tips on getting your very first video done

Episode resources

Summit CPA website - www.summitcpa.net
Email us with questions - vcfo@summitcpa.net
Email Stephen - stephen@sgplabs.com

Financing with QuickFee

Wed, 03 Feb 2021 12:41:58 -0600

Quote

“One of the partners there was sharing that their firm no longer has an overdraft thanks to using our payment plans” - Bruce Coombes

The finer details of this episode

What is QuickFee
What are the three payment solutions offered by QuickFee
Advantages of using QuickFee
How it helped firms collect payments faster
How QuickFee can help enhance your relationship with your client

Episode resources

Summit CPA website - www.summitcpa.net
Email us with questions - vcfo@summitcpa.net
QuickFee - https://quickfee.com/

Deep Dive with Virtual CFO Client Casey Cobb of Ricochet Group

Mon, 14 Dec 2020 07:00:00 -0600

Quote

“Let’s build the plan and plug the engineers into the plan instead of the other way around.” - Casey Cobb

The finer details of this episode

How the beginning of this client relationship changed the way we pitched
Casey’s amazing backstory and how a virtual CFO was able to help him through challenging times
The 80/20 rule, Parkinson's Law, and how Casey implemented them into his business idea
How Casy found his blue ocean strategy

Episode resources

Summit CPA website - www.summitcpa.net
Email us with questions - vcfo@summitcpa.net
Email Casey - casey@projectricochet.com

The Importance of Team Retreats with Zach Montroy and Lillian Hocevar

Mon, 23 Nov 2020 07:00:00 -0600

Quote

“Taking this time and investment in your team will show dividends in the future.” - Zach

The finer details of this episode

How to choose the right venues, restaurants, and activities for the group
Tips for structuring the content of your company retreat
Balancing team-building and business development activities
Choosing the right location for your retreat
The importance of working with the right team to organize your retreat
Budgeting and forecasting to cover your retreat financially

Episode resources

Summit CPA website - www.summitcpa.net
Email us with questions - vcfo@summitcpa.net
Contact Lily - lillian@traveluxeofficial.com

R&D Tax Credit

Mon, 09 Nov 2020 07:00:00 -0600

Quote

“This applies to more agencies than not, and if you don’t ask you are not going to receive.” - Dave Danic

The finer details of this episode

The four parts of qualifying for the R&D tax credit
What if you are a Canadian-based company with USA operations?
Things that might exclude you from the tax credit
Extra steps you can take to make sure you get the credit
How to find a tax accountant who can help you qualify for the R&D credit
The amount of money you could save with the R&D credit

Episode resources

Summit CPA website - www.summitcpa.net
Email us with questions/comments- vcfo@summitcpa.net

Getting the Right People into the Right Seats with Tom Barrett

Tue, 27 Oct 2020 04:37:43 -0500

Quote

“The key to keeping employees happy is to get the right people on the bus, the wrong people off the bus, and the right people in the right seats.” - Tom Barrett

The finer details of this episode

How to keep your employees happy
Using accountability charts to get everyone into “the right seat”
Processes for transitioning and onboarding employees into their roles
Making sure that everyone gets into seats that fit their strengths
Seeing people’s potential for leadership or supervising
Tips for the interview process to assess potential new team members
The importance of solidifying your company values when it comes to getting teammates into the right seat

Episode resources

Summit CPA website - www.summitcpa.net
Email us with questions/comments- vcfo@summitcpa.net

Deep Dive with Virtual CFO Client Greg Bear of Bear Group

Mon, 12 Oct 2020 07:00:00 -0500

Quote

“We were growing, I was wearing a lot of hats, and I started to realize our finances should be doing better.” - Greg Bear

The finer details of this episode

How Bear Group got started and their experience as a remote company
Their process of hiring a CFO
How Summit CPA has helped Bear Group to uplevel their business
New financial management tricks Greg learned during the onboarding process
Bear Group’s financial workflow
Factors that attributed to fast cash growth for The Bear Group
What to consider if your business is looking to hire a CFO

Episode resources

Summit CPA website - www.summitcpa.net
Email us with questions/comments- vcfo@summitcpa.net

Summit CPA employees Angie Douglas & Mikala Page talk about traveling while working remotely

Mon, 21 Sep 2020 07:00:02 -0500

Quote

“Scope out the wifi situation before you arrive somewhere. The worst workweeks have been when I had to use my phone hotspot to work.” - Mikala Paige

The finer details of this episode

Angie and Mikala’s stories and how they joined Summit CPA
Tips for creating a remote/travel lifestyle
Things to research before moving to a new location
How Angie worked from a van
Having a social life when you work remotely and travel
Challenges and advantages of working remotely and traveling
Equipment you will need for remote work

Episode resources

Summit CPA website - www.summitcpa.net
Email us with questions - vcfo@summitcpa.net

EOS with Tom Barrett

Mon, 07 Sep 2020 07:00:07 -0500

Quote

“The time you spend on EOS tools, you are going to save that time and more in the long run.” - Tom Barrett

The finer details of this episode

How to determine if your organization needs EOS
The process of implementing EOS
Advantages of working with an EOS implementer
The six key components of EOS
Setting priorities using the EOS model

Episode resources

Summit CPA website - www.summitcpa.net
Email us with questions - vcfo@summitcpa.net
Navigate the Journey - https://navigatethejourney.com/

Delegation Tips with Emily Morgan from Delegate Solutions

Mon, 24 Aug 2020 07:00:13 -0500

Quote

“We need to be committed to the boring stuff in our business because it is the backbone of how everything runs.” - Emily Morgan

The finer details of this episode

Tips for small businesses on delegating their admin tasks
Advantages of having a virtual assistant
How to start delegating some of your admin work in your business
How to get comfortable letting go of tasks in your business
What the day-to-day looks like working with a virtual assistant

Episode resources

Summit CPA website - www.summitcpa.net
Email us with questions - vcfo@summitcpa.net
Delegate Solutions - https://www.delegatesolutions.com/

Client Spotlight with Matt Westgate of Lullabot

Mon, 10 Aug 2020 07:00:10 -0500

Quote

“Intentionally fostering serendipity in a distributed company will help keep isolation at bay.” - Matt Westgate

The finer details of this episode

What brought Matt to Summit CPA
Why Lullabot decided to become a distributed company
The benefits of working with a distributed team
Maintaining company culture when your team is distributed
The evolution of the Lullabot leadership team
How Matt pulled his company out of financial hardship
Creating psychological safety in your company culture

Episode resources

Summit CPA website - www.summitcpa.net
Email us with questions - vcfo@summitcpa.net
Lullabot - https://www.lullabot.com/

Financial Meeting Cadence with Kristen Reinking

Fri, 31 Jul 2020 02:43:38 -0500

Quote

“If you don’t have the gross profit to support the bottom line, then you aren’t going to have a bottom line.” - Kristen Reinking

The finer details of this episode

The three meetings every organization should have about their finances
How often to have meetings about your finances
Using the IDS model in your financial meetings
Who is normally in each meeting
How the size of your organization affects the frequency of financial meetings

Episode resources

Summit CPA website - www.summitcpa.net

Email us with questions/comments- vcfo@summitcpa.net

4 Most Common CFO Topics

Wed, 15 Jul 2020 21:08:34 -0500

Quote

“The most important thing is to build a short-term cash flow forecast to know what you are working with.” - Jamie Nau

The finer details of this episode

Cash flow - the most common issues we help our clients with as CFOs
What factors could contribute to your cash flow issues
Preparing your firm for taxes
Ownership issues and how we handle them with our clients
Things to consider about partnerships before jumping into it
How to plan for growth

Episode resources

Summit CPA website - www.summitcpa.net
Email us with questions/comments- vcfo@summitcpa.net
Forecasting for Growth - https://www.summitcpa.net/blog/forecasting-for-growth

Deep Dive into Gross Profit with Nicole Carlton

Tue, 30 Jun 2020 22:36:01 -0500

Quote

“We split out the different types of profit in order to focus our conversations.” - Jamie Nau

The finer details of this episode

What “cost of goods” means for agencies and media companies
How to separate your production costs on your payroll
The most common conversations we have with our clients about gross profit
Hiring contractors vs employees and how that affects your gross profit

Episode resources

Summit CPA website - www.summitcpa.net
Email us with questions/comments- vcfo@summitcpa.net

Deep Dive - Average Bill Rate and Write Downs

Mon, 15 Jun 2020 05:14:50 -0500

Quote

“It’s important to understand your company before setting your average bill rate. You might have an advantage if you can charge less and make more.” - Jody Grunden

The finer details of this episode

When it’s ok to lower your average bill rate
How to use your average bill rate for pricing
The importance of having a project manager involved in the sales conversation
The difference between a standard bill rate and an average bill rate
How to maintain your desired average bill rate
Calculating fixed fee projects into the average bill rate

Episode resources

Summit CPA website - www.summitcpa.net
Email us with questions/comments- vcfo@summitcpa.net

PPP Loan Forgiveness (Update), What Business Owners Need to Know

Mon, 01 Jun 2020 22:06:42 -0500

Quote

“Documentation is key when it comes to calculating how much forgiveness you have.” - Jamie Nau

The finer details of this episode

Changes related to compensation of employees and owners
Rules for bonus and hazard pay for your employees
Limits on owner compensation
Changes that self-employed and partner filers can expect
What this means for you based on your number of employees
Rehiring procedures and requirements
Forgiveness of interest
Utilities and expenses in loan forgiveness
How to calculate your payroll for loan forgiveness
How these changes can be beneficial to your business

Episode resources

Summit CPA website - www.summitcpa.net
Email us with questions/comments- vcfo@summitcpa.net

Hiring Assessments with Zach Montroy

Mon, 18 May 2020 21:36:32 -0500

Quote

“We are trying to learn about a candidate, know how they are going to fit into the culture, and know how they are going to do the job in a very small amount of time.” - Zach

The finer details of this episode

How Summit CPA has struggled in the past with hiring
The hiring assessments that Zach introduced to Summit CPA
Why Emotional Intelligence is such an important factor in a potential employee
How the EQ assessment works and how to read the results
The Kolbe assessment and how to use it in your hiring process

Episode resources

Summit CPA website - www.summitcpa.net
Email us with questions/comments- vcfo@summitcpa.net
Zach’s Website - https://navigatethejourney.com/

PPP Loan Forgiveness

Tue, 05 May 2020 01:24:43 -0500

Quote

“Don’t try to game the system with these. The government is going to be really scrutinizing the details with this.” - Jody Grunden

The finer details of this episode

Which expenses are included in loan forgiveness
What you should do if your business uses contractors
How to approach documentation
What you need to know about the regulations and guidelines
The timing and process to obtain forgiveness
How to work with any loan that isn’t forgiven
Do you need to pay taxes on the loan forgiveness?

Episode resources

Summit CPA website - www.summitcpa.net
Email us with questions/comments- vcfo@summitcpa.net

Using A Forecast During Difficult Times

Tue, 21 Apr 2020 01:11:11 -0500

Quote

“The first thing you want to do is identify what you think is going to happen over the next 2-3 months.” - Jody Grunden

The finer details of this episode

The main things to look at in your forecast when your business is struggling
How often to look at your forecast when times are tough
The 15% net income model and how you can use your forecast to achieve it
A walkthrough of how we are serving one of our clients during the COVID-19 crisis
Scenario planning to eliminate unnecessary worry
Tips and insights on the PPP loan

Episode resources

Summit CPA website - www.summitcpa.net
Email us with questions/comments- vcfo@summitcpa.net

Using A Forecast for Growth

Mon, 06 Apr 2020 07:00:17 -0500

Quote

“You are not trying to just increase your top-line revenue. Your bottom line needs to be increasing too.” - Jody Grunden

The finer details of this episode

How Summit CPA used forecasting to help a client double their revenue
What part of your business to work on in order to create growth
Determining if you have the capacity to grow the way you want to
The “Four Levers of Growth” that you need to cover in your growth plan
How to manage a distributed team as your firm gets bigger
Getting your team excited about the goal and keep the motivation up
Tips on the hiring process as your team gets bigger

Episode resources

Summit CPA website - www.summitcpa.net
Email us with questions/comments- vcfo@summitcpa.net

Tax Considerations for Creative Agencies

Mon, 23 Mar 2020 07:00:39 -0500

Quote

“It doesn’t make sense to drain your cash in order to save for taxes” - Jody Grunden

The finer details of this episode

Tax laws and how to follow them
Cash-based vs accrual-based
What you can do to lower your tax bill
How to forecast your tax bill
What creative agencies need to know about their taxes
Is it your location or the client’s locations that matter?

Episode resources

Summit CPA website - www.summitcpa.net
Email us with questions/comments- vcfo@summitcpa.net

Distributed Working Models

Fri, 20 Mar 2020 08:56:13 -0500

Quote

“Creating a dedicated space for your work is one of the most essential things you can do when working from home.” - Adam Hale

The finer details of this episode

How Summit CPA became a virtual company
Work from home tips from the Summit CPA team
Perks of working from home
Our favorite tools for working online
How this can actually be a blessing in disguise for your company
How to support yourself and your coworkers through this quarantine period
How virtual teams can support business growth even better than in-person teams

Episode resources

Summit CPA website - www.summitcpa.net
Email us with questions/comments- vcfo@summitcpa.net
Secoco - https://www.sococo.com/
LastPass - https://www.lastpass.com/
Sharepoint - https://products.office.com/en-us/sharepoint/collaboration
Boxcryptor - https://www.boxcryptor.com/en/

The Art of Cash Flow

Mon, 24 Feb 2020 07:00:03 -0600

Quote

“The fact that you created a process is more important than what process you use. What matters is that you have a process.” - Jamie Nau

The finer details of this episode

How often you should be looking at your bank balance
How to determine your inflow to start a cash flow forecast
How to forecast your outflows
Reasons you should reconcile your account as often as possible
Why your business should have a line of credit as opposed to taking out loans
Things you can do to make sure you always have cash flowing into your business

Episode resources

Summit CPA website - www.summitcpa.net
Email us with questions/comments- vcfo@summitcpa.net

Creating Recurring Revenue Streams

Mon, 10 Feb 2020 09:00:03 -0600

Quote

“When you have a lot of recurring revenue, you are able to increase your capacity for more projects and take more risks.” - Adam Hale

The finer details of this episode

How Summit CPA started with recurring revenue streams
How the subscription based model solved many of the problems we faced early on in business
Different ways that marketing firms can take advantage of the recurring revenue model
Key things to remember when setting up recurring revenue in your business
How recurring revenue enhances your cash flow and allows you to take more risks in your business
The process of setting up automatic regular payments with your clients

Episode resources

Summit CPA website - www.summitcpa.net
Email us with questions/comments- vcfo@summitcpa.net

How to Prepare Your Business for a Recession

Mon, 27 Jan 2020 07:00:12 -0600

Quote

“You know that it’s going to happen, but it’s not possible to predict exactly when, so the key is to prepare for it.” - Jody Grunden

The finer details of this episode

What is a recession?
What happens during a recession
Tips to prepare your business for a recession
Why you should start planning now for the next recession
The biggest tool you have against a recession
The advantages of going into a recession strong and well prepared
Things you can do right now to ensure your success in the next recession
Why you should run scenarios and some sample scenarios to think through
Why you shouldn’t be worried or heavily impacted by a recession

Episode resources

Summit CPA website - www.summitcpa.net
Email us with questions/comments- vcfo@summitcpa.net

Forecasting: How to do it right

Wed, 15 Jan 2020 12:11:32 -0600

Quote

“Forecasting gives us the opportunity to reroute, so we can stay on track with the goal.” - Adam Hale

The finer details of this episode

The difference between budgeting, forecasting, and resourcing
How Summit CPA began to implement forecasting with our clients
How far ahead you should look when forecasting
How forecasting can help you reach your long-term goals
How to create a forecast for your business
The importance of separating out your expenses in forecasts
The best time of year to put together a forecast for your business

Episode resources

Summit CPA website - www.summitcpa.net
Email us with questions/comments- vcfo@summitcpa.net

Understanding Pipeline Metrics

Sat, 04 Jan 2020 06:31:00 -0600

“It’s important that the amount you have in your pipeline varies based on what your future outlook looks like.” - Jamie Nau

The finer details of this episode

How often you should look at pipeline metrics
The different parts of the pipeline that can be measured and controlled
The three inputs that should be evaluated regularly
How to calculate Recognized Revenue and why that’s important
Why looking ahead 3 months is the best way to look at pipeline metrics
The formula to calculate the percent capacity
How the pipeline metrics fit into the other numbers in your business

Episode resources

Summit CPA website - www.summitcpa.net
Email us with questions/comments- vcfo@summitcpa.net

Financial Metrics: Net Income

Thu, 26 Dec 2019 15:56:24 -0600

“A service-based company should be making 15% net income, 10% is the break-even.” - Jody Grunden

The finer details of this episode

Why 10% is the new break-even
How profit margins get smaller as your company gets bigger
The sections of an income statement and why they are important
How to calculate your actual gross profit and determine what it should be
How much to invest in your employees outside of their paycheck
The difference between overhead cost and production cost
What you can do to increase your gross profit
How to prepare for a recession

Episode resources

Summit CPA website - www.summitcpa.net
Email us with questions/comments- vcfo@summitcpa.net

Production Metrics: Effective Rate

Wed, 04 Dec 2019 22:45:21 -0600

“Measuring something and then consistently looking at it really helps you understand exactly how you’re doing.” - Jamie Nau

The finer details of this episode

Production metrics 101.
How to calculate your utilization rate.
Standard rate vs. average bill rate.
Where do service businesses fail?
What is an effective rate?
How to improve your average bill rate.
A Summit CPA client success story.

Episode resources

Summit CPA website
Production metrics guide
Email us with questions/comments- vcfo@summitcpa.net

Does your business have enough cash? Here’s what you need to know about cash flow management.

Sat, 23 Nov 2019 20:10:33 -0600

“If the client knows you're going to reach out every time a payment is due and you do it, there’s no question that it will improve your receivables process.” - Audrey Giannini

The finer details of this episode

How much cash should you have in the bank?
Understanding client concentration and why it’s important.
The way Summit CPA looks at short term cash flow.
Penalties and incentives for collecting account receivables.
Suggestions for securing lines of credit.
How to calculate tax payment and set aside reserves.

Episode resources

Summit CPA website
Email us with questions/comments- vcfo@summitcpa.net

What is a Virtual CFO and when should you hire one?

Tue, 29 Oct 2019 11:34:19 -0500

“Many times, it’s the last thing they want to deal with, but they know things could go so much further if they had the proper staff. The back of the napkin doesn’t work anymore.” - Michelle Lesifko

The finer details of this episode

How Summit CPA helped coin the term “Virtual CFO”
Traditional bookkeeping and accounting vs. Summit CPA
Should you hire a full-time CFO?
How Summit CPA uses forecasting to hit milestones and goals
Michelle takes a closer look into cash flow
The three types of services Summit CPA offers
When should business owners start reaching out for help?

Episode resources

Summit CPA website
Email us with questions/comments- vcfo@summitcpa.net

How we help creative agencies grow

Thu, 17 Oct 2019 14:07:22 -0500

“We’ve put together processes and deliverables for our clients. They’ve seen a big impact on their businesses, so there’s tons of value.” - Adam Hale

The finer details of this episode

Adam’s shares his Jerry Maguire moment when leaving the previous firm
What made Summit CPA stick with creative agencies as a customer base since
The two types of ways Summit CPA works with creative agencies
How one client made an extra $800K on a deal by asking a simple question
The power of attending industry conferences and events
How Summit CPA is changing the industry by helping other firms

Episode resources

Summit CPA website
Email us with questions/comments- vcfo@summitcpa.net

The Summit CPA Backstory

Mon, 30 Sep 2019 07:35:35 -0500

“The strategy, speaking with the clients weekly and making sure they have enough cash in the bank to survive the next eight weeks or 12 months, that’s really the differentiator and why we’ve grown so fast.”

- Jody Grunden

The finer details of this episode

How Jody and Adam started their careers in accounting
What was Jody's philosophy when starting Summit CPA Group
How to value clients and build long term relationships with them
Fix-priced billing vs. billing per hour: how to price the clients in the right way
The difference between VCFO and fractional CFO services
Summit CPA group’s focus on creative agencies

Episode resources

Summit CPA website
Email us with questions/comments- vcfo@summitcpa.net