Pulse of the Practice

In this episode of Pulse of the Practice, hosts Mo Arbas and Paul Miller dive into the realities of year-end planning for firms and their clients. They discuss the evolving nature of tax seasons, the importance of standardizing retirement account advice, and how proactive education can help clients make better financial decisions. The conversation covers prioritizing HSA contributions, navigating health insurance options, and the nuances of retirement plans for business owners—with or without employees. Paul shares insights on balancing client goals, whether it’s maximizing tax deductions through retirement accounts or investing in real estate, and emphasizes the value of anticipating client needs rather than simply answering questions. The episode wraps up with practical tips for closing the loop on planning decisions and highlights the difference between reactive and proactive advisory.

Is the accounting talent shortage your biggest problem—or your biggest opportunity? In this episode of Pulse of the Practice (2025, E19), hosts Mo Arbas and Paul Miller sit down with L. Gary Boomer—founder, visionary, and strategist at Boomer Consulting—to unpack how AI, advisory services, and a new business model will redefine CPA firms by 2026. Boomer explains why the next five years could deliver a century's worth of technology change, and how firm leaders can turn anxiety and burnout into momentum with mindset, purpose, and process. You'll learn the concrete steps to move from compliance to high‑value advisory, ditch the hour‑based model for results‑driven pricing, and build an Agenic Workforce that scales expertise with AI "agents," staff‑on‑demand, and fractional C‑suite talent. What you'll learn: How to pivot from tax/audit compliance to recurring, scalable Client Advisory Services (CAS) clients actually value The business case for value pricing vs. billable hours—and why clients buy outcomes, not time The EXO (Exponential Organizations) framework applied to CPA firms: staff‑on‑demand, community, algorithms, and more Boomer's prediction for 2026: why the "labor shortage" worry will be replaced by super‑workers augmented by AI A practical talent strategy: onboard grads directly into advisory, use coaching (not just mentoring), and implement the 3×3 relationship rule Tech you can use now: AI note‑taking/meeting tools (Fathom/Otter) and Google's NotebookLM for knowledge capture, training, and faster knowledge transfer How to clean data, document processes, and build internal knowledge bases so AI actually works The leadership shift: set a massively transformative purpose (MTP), align clients and staff to your vision, and create a cadence of continuous improvement If you're a managing partner, CAS leader, or firm owner ready to modernize your practice, this conversation is your roadmap to healthier margins, happier teams, and stickier client relationships. Subscribe for more practical playbooks on modern firm leadership, AI adoption, CAS growth, and pricing strategy—and share this episode with a partner who's still billing by the hour. Keywords: accounting firm transformation, CPA firm strategy, Client Advisory Services, CAS, AI in accounting, accounting burnout, talent shortage accounting, value pricing for CPAs, Boomer Consulting, Gary Boomer, EXO framework, Agenic Workforce, NotebookLM, meeting AI tools, fractional CFO/COO/CIO, accounting firm processes, shift from compliance to advisory

Mo and Paul interview Andrew McCracken live on-site at SYNERGY 2025 in Orlando, Florida, to learn what it's like to put a conference of this magnitude together.

Step into the vibrant atmosphere of the Synergy Users Conference with this special “Neighborhood Walk Through” episode of Pulse of the Practice. Hosts take you behind the scenes, capturing the energy, candid conversations, and diverse perspectives that make this event unique. From advisor bootcamp reflections to spontaneous chats with attendees and vendors, the episode explores how firms are embracing innovation, leveraging AI, and tackling real-world challenges in tax and advisory workflows. Hear firsthand how peer-to-peer learning, product feedback, and intentional change are shaping the future of the industry. Whether it’s finding the “golden ticket” to new efficiencies, sharing a laugh over conference quirks, or discussing the importance of carving out time for innovation, this episode delivers a lively, insightful look at what happens when professionals come together to recharge, connect, and spark new ideas.

Episode description (120–180 words): Cybersecurity is no longer optional for tax and accounting firms. In this episode, hosts Mo Arbas and Paul Miller are joined by Steve Ferguson (Protection Plus) to break down what really keeps practices safe—and operating—when threats hit. They cover why small firms are prime targets, how phishing and AI‑driven scams fool even savvy teams, and why MFA alone isn't enough as zero trust becomes the new standard. Steve explains must‑have protections, including cyber insurance with breach response, plus the role of a written information security plan (WISP) required by FTC/IRS guidance. You'll hear real‑world stories—from kiosk‑seeded refund diversions to gift‑card cons—and practical steps for training staff, reducing liability, and responding fast to limit damage. If you handle client data, this conversation is your playbook for Cybersecurity Awareness Month and beyond.

On this episode of Pulse of the Practice, hosts Mo Arbas and Paul Miller get candid about the real trade‑offs between remote, hybrid, and in‑office work—especially inside tax and accounting firms. Fresh off the Oct 15 deadline push, they unpack client "last‑minute" realities, staff learning curves, and why knowledge transfer, mentorship, and relationship building often accelerate when people share the same room. Mo and Paul compare what's truly efficient remotely vs. what benefits from in‑person energy—brainstorming, training juniors, managing tough client conversations, and developing the advisory mindset that AI can't replace. They also discuss how shifting routine work to AI raises the bar on human skills: collaboration, judgment, and leadership. Takeaways: When hybrid beats remote (and why RTO is resurging) Turning deadline chaos into repeatable process improvements Making mentorship intentional so juniors level up faster The human edge in an AI‑accelerated firm If you enjoyed this episode, follow/subscribe and share with a colleague. Got a topic you want Mo and Paul to cover? Send it our way. Keywords/tags: accounting firm management, hybrid work accounting, return to office 2025, tax deadline October 15, knowledge transfer accounting, mentorship in firms, staff training CPA firm, client management tax practice, AI in accounting 2025, advisory services development, remote vs in‑office productivity, brainstorming in person, culture in accounting firms, process improvement busy season, workload compression tax, professional development CPAs, leadership in public accounting, talent retention accounting, small firm competitiveness, Detroit accounting conversation, Business by Design firm insights, Pulse of the Practice podcast

In this Pulse of the Practice conversation, Paul Miller unpacks why the best “tax planning season” is all year long—not just Q4. With many firm initiatives already targeting 2026, Paul shares how leading firms translate today’s client conversations into concrete capacity, revenue, and staffing plans for the next 12–24 months. Key takeaways: Listen for life‑event signals. Clients rarely say “I need an exit plan.” They hint at transitions—succession, burnout, relocation, health, or market shifts. Train your team to hear those cues and start planning early. Valuation isn’t a finish line; it’s a starting point. Regularly benchmark the business so owners can align pricing, client mix, and structure with their eventual exit timeline. Make planning continuous. Replace last‑minute Q4 models with a cadence of mini‑check‑ins that combine numbers with narrative: goals for the next 1–5 years, risk tolerance, and capacity constraints—both client and firm‑side. Charge for strategy with confidence. Longstanding relationships don’t make advisory “free.” Clarify scope, package outcomes (e.g., exit readiness, tax savings roadmap, sale prep), and communicate the value long before a transaction looms. Redesign roles for impact. Shift staff from “cranking numbers” to managing relationships and discovery. The result: better insights, earlier interventions, and more profitable engagements. Think 2026 now. If 75% of your big projects already point to 2026, formalize forecasts, staffing plans, and pricing updates today. Whether your clients are five years from a sale or just exploring growth options, this episode shows how to move from reactive calculations to proactive advisory—without awkward money talks. Timestamps 00:00 Intro and why planning sneaks up on firms 03:55 Why 2026 planning starts today 06:45 Spotting exit triggers in normal conversations 11:15 Numbers vs. life events: bringing both into planning 16:15 Pricing advisory in long‑term relationships 20:25 When to discuss valuation (and how often) 24:20 Turning staff into relationship managers Keywords (primary/secondary/long‑tail) Primary: year‑round tax planning, advisory services for accounting firms, business valuation, exit planning, 2026 firm planning Secondary: CPA firm capacity planning, client discovery, pricing advisory, scope management, relationship management, revenue projections Long‑tail: how to price advisory for long‑term clients, signs a business is ready to sell, continuous tax planning vs Q4, training staff for client advisory, building a 2026 capacity plan

In this episode of "Pulse of the Practice," hosts Mo Arbas and Paul Miller dive deep into the latest tax law updates impacting accounting and tax firms as we approach the fourth quarter of 2025. Discover practical strategies for communicating key legislative changes—like the expiration of the clean vehicle credit, updates to renewable energy incentives, R&D credit modifications, QBID (Section 199A), and bonus depreciation—with your clients. Learn how to break down complex information into digestible video announcements and distinguish between goodwill communications and billable advisory work. Mo and Paul offer actionable insights on how firms can stay ahead by proactively addressing client needs, leveraging new tax planning opportunities, and maintaining confidence in an ever-evolving regulatory landscape. Whether you're managing busy extension deadlines or looking to optimize your advisory services, this episode is packed with best practices, real-world examples, and expert guidance to ensure your clients are informed and your firm is prepared for the year ahead. Tune in to keep your finger on the pulse of tax law changes, maximize client value, and position your practice for success in 2025 and beyond! Keywords: 2025 tax law changes, accounting firm advisory, clean vehicle credit expiration, renewable energy tax credits, R&D credit update, Section 199A, QBID extension, bonus depreciation, tax planning strategies, client communication, proactive tax advisory, small business tax updates, IRS guidance, accounting best practices, tax legislation, extension deadlines, business tax credits, firm workflow optimization, tax compliance, tax advisory services, podcast for accountants

In this insightful episode of Pulse of the Practice, hosts Mo Arbas and Paul Miller reconnect to discuss the ever-evolving landscape of tax law changes and the impact on accounting practices. With recent travel and busy schedules behind them, Mo and Paul dive deep into how firms can proactively adapt to new legislation, including the "big beautiful bill" and its implications for tax credits, child tax exemptions, overtime income, and more. Listeners will gain actionable advice on how to stay ahead of regulatory updates, optimize tax planning strategies for clients, and effectively communicate changes through targeted content like short, topic-specific videos. The hosts explore the importance of advisory services, the evolving roles within accounting teams, and how firms can build trust and demonstrate value beyond compliance work. Key topics include: The importance of proactive client communication in light of legislative changes Strategies for team readiness and workflow optimization Leveraging video content for client education on tax law updates Advisory vs. compliance: transitioning to value-added services Real-world scenarios for maximizing deductions, credits, and filing status optimization Building client trust and engagement for future advisory relationships Managing documentation and staff responsibilities as laws evolve Planning ahead for 2025, 2026, and beyond Whether you’re a firm owner, tax professional, or team member, this episode delivers practical insights to help your practice thrive amid change and position itself as a trusted advisory partner. Keywords: tax law changes, tax advisory, accounting firm strategies, tax credits, child tax credit, overtime income, compliance vs advisory, client communication, tax planning, proactive advisory, accounting workflow, staff optimization, tax deduction strategies, tax exemption, client engagement, financial advisory services, accounting team roles, regulatory updates, pulse of the practice, tax legislation, tax return planning, 2025 tax changes, 2026 tax changes, short-form video marketing, client education, CPA firm best practices

In this insightful episode of "Pulse of the Practice," hosts Mall Harbor and Paul sit down with Kevin Stewart, a seasoned CPA and second-generation firm owner, to discuss the journey from traditional compliance work to an advisory-driven practice. Kevin shares candid stories of taking over his father's firm, scaling to 55 employees, and confronting the overwhelming "hamster wheel" of accounting work. He reveals the pivotal moments that inspired a shift towards a value-based, client-focused advisory model and the challenges and triumphs encountered along the way. Listeners will learn how Kevin successfully implemented new strategies, tackled the fear of change, and built a legacy-focused firm that empowers the next generation—including his own daughter. The conversation delves into practical tips for CPA firm owners: moving away from giving away free advice, building effective teams, protecting time for strategic work, and transitioning existing clients to a more profitable model. Whether you’re a solo practitioner or a firm leader looking to modernize your accounting practice, this episode is packed with real-world advice on working "on" your business, not just "in" it. Discover how to escape the cycle of being “too busy,” embrace change, and create a firm culture centered on deeper client relationships and sustainable growth.

In this insightful episode of Practice Pulse, host Mo sits down with industry veterans Paul and John for a candid conversation live from the Nashville Partner Summit. Together, they dive deep into the realities of modern accounting practice, addressing common challenges, the power of peer support, and actionable strategies for firm transformation. John, a CPA with 35 years of experience, shares his personal journey—discussing the pressures of running a firm, the impact of constant change in the industry, and the importance of staff engagement. Mo and Paul guide the discussion through practical advice on improving client communication, managing workflow, and fostering a culture of continuous improvement. Listeners will discover: The top three challenges accounting firms face today How to initiate meaningful change within your team Strategies for client communication and expectation management The value of stepping outside your comfort zone for professional growth Why attending industry summits can catalyze transformation for your firm Whether you’re a seasoned practitioner or a new firm leader, this episode offers relatable stories, expert insights, and motivating takeaways to help you take your practice to the next level. keywords: accounting, CPA, practice management, firm leadership, team building, client communication, change management, Nashville Partner Summit, professional growth, workflow optimization, staff engagement, accounting conference, Practice Forward, firm transformation, Mo, Paul Miller, John, accounting challenges, business development, accounting podcast, accounting industry trends

Join us for a dynamic live episode of “Pulse of the Practice” from the 2025 Advisory Symposium in Miami! Hosts Mo and Paul kick off with lively banter, audience engagement, and a look behind the scenes at the evolution of their own professional journeys. This special session dives into the rapid pace of innovation and adaptation in various industries, spotlighting the transformation of Amazon from humble beginnings to global powerhouse. Discover how Amazon’s relentless drive for innovation—and its willingness to learn from failures—offers valuable lessons for the accounting and tax advisory profession. Hear from special guest Elizabeth Bystrom, President of Tax at Thomson Reuters, who shares insights into the launch of the groundbreaking “Ready to Advise” platform. Elizabeth discusses the importance of client relationships, the transition from transactional services to strategic advisory, and how AI and automation are reshaping the future of tax practices. The episode also features interactive games, audience prizes, and shout-outs to sponsors like Protection Plus. Whether you’re a tax professional, accountant, or business leader looking to stay ahead of industry trends, this episode offers actionable strategies, innovation milestones, and a look at the next wave of advisory technology. Don’t miss this fun, insightful, and forward-thinking conversation that will inspire you to embrace change and lead your practice into the future! Key Topics Covered: The evolution and innovation journey of Amazon and its impact on client expectations How disruption in the retail industry provides lessons for the accounting profession The importance of continuous innovation in tax and accounting services Introduction to Thomson Reuters’ “Ready to Advise” platform and its benefits Leveraging AI and automation to enhance efficiency and client relationships Overcoming resistance to change and embracing technology in professional services Live audience interaction, prize giveaways, and more! Keywords: tax advisory, accounting innovation, Amazon business case, industry disruption, Thomson Reuters, Ready to Advise, tax technology, AI in accounting, automation, client relationships, tax practice growth, CPA evolution, professional services trends, accounting symposium

Summary In this episode, Mo Arbas and Paul Miller discuss the recent Partner Summit and the evolving landscape of advisory services in the accounting industry. They reflect on the challenges firms face, including pricing strategies, client relationships, and the impact of AI. The conversation emphasizes the importance of understanding client perspectives and the need for firms to adapt to changing market conditions while maintaining strong relationships with clients. Takeaways AI is becoming a crucial part of advisory services. Firms are facing challenges with pricing and client expectations. Building confidence in pricing changes is essential for firms. Legacy clients can be difficult to transition away from. Communication with clients about changes is vital. Customization in services can lead to unsustainable practices. The accounting industry must evolve to remain competitive. Understanding client perspectives can improve relationships. Firms need to balance legacy clients with new business models. Sustainability in business practices is a growing concern. Keywords: partner summit, advisory services, client relationships, legacy clients, business sustainability, change management, AI in accounting, pricing strategies, firm evolution, client communication

Summary In this episode, Mo Arbas and Paul Miller engage with Trisha Floyd, a CPA firm owner, discussing her journey in transitioning from traditional accounting to advisory services. Trisha shares insights on the importance of client education, building trust, and the integration of wealth management into CPA practices. The conversation highlights the evolving landscape of the service industry and the opportunities for CPAs to provide higher levels of service and support to their clients. Takeaways Trisha Floyd emphasizes the importance of client education in advisory services. Building trust is crucial for CPAs to effectively offer wealth management. The integration of wealth management into CPA practices can enhance client relationships. Understanding client needs goes beyond tax returns; it's about holistic financial planning. Trisha's firm aims to provide customized plans for clients of all ages. The service industry is evolving, with a growing demand for comprehensive financial services. CPAs can leverage their expertise to offer higher levels of service and support. Effective communication and asking the right questions can uncover additional client needs. The future of advisory services lies in the ability to adapt and provide tailored solutions. Trisha is excited about the potential of marrying CPA services with wealth management. Keywords: CPA, advisory services, wealth management, client education, financial planning, trust, client relationships, service industry, tax planning, financial advisory

Summary In this conversation, Mo Arbas and Paul Miller discuss the evolving landscape of advisory services in the accounting and tax industry. They reflect on their recent experiences at a conference, the importance of understanding what advisory truly means, and the challenges firms face in delivering value to clients. The discussion highlights the need for structured advisory services, the role of technology, and the importance of client relationships. They also touch on the future of advisory services and the necessity for firms to adapt to changing client expectations. Takeaways Advisory services are becoming increasingly important in the accounting industry. There is a need for clarity in what advisory services entail. Firms must evolve their client relationships to provide more value. Technology plays a crucial role in enhancing advisory services. Clients are looking for proactive solutions rather than reactive ones. Understanding client needs is essential for delivering effective advisory services. The advisory landscape is broad and requires firms to define their niche. Private equity is recognizing the potential in the advisory space. Firms should focus on structured processes for delivering advisory services. The future of advisory will involve more collaboration and integration of services. Keywords: advisory services, client relationships, tax advisory, accounting, technology, client expectations, business transformation, private equity, consulting, financial planning

Summary In this episode, Mo Arbas and Paul Miller engage with Michael Foguth, a prominent figure in the financial services industry. They discuss Michael's journey into financial services, the importance of tax planning, current trends in wealth management, and the role of AI in enhancing client relationships. The conversation emphasizes the need for collaboration between financial advisors and tax professionals to provide comprehensive services to clients. Michael shares insights on how to educate clients about financial strategies and the future of advisory services in a rapidly changing landscape. Takeaways Michael Foguth's journey into financial services was inspired by personal experiences with financial literacy. The importance of tax planning is often overlooked in favor of tax preparation. AI will enhance efficiency in financial services but will not replace the human element. Collaboration between financial advisors and tax professionals is crucial for client success. Clients need to understand the value of financial strategies beyond just costs. Financial literacy should be a priority in education to empower individuals. The future of financial advisory services lies in integrating various financial services for clients. Understanding client emotions is key to effective financial advising. The financial services industry is evolving, and firms must adapt to stay relevant. Planning for taxes should be a year-round process, not just at tax time. Keywords financial services, wealth management, tax planning, Michael Foguth, AI in finance, collaboration, financial literacy, retirement planning, advisory services, family office

Summary In this conversation, Mo Arbas and Paul Miller discuss the complexities of client management in the advisory sector, emphasizing the importance of proactive engagement and understanding the annual client cycle. They explore the challenges of balancing technology with client needs, the significance of routine communication, and the necessity of shifting mindsets regarding tax preparation. The discussion highlights strategies for building successful client relationships and managing expectations throughout the year. Takeaways Technology can be a double-edged sword in client management. Learning to say no is crucial for prioritizing tasks. Client relationships are ongoing and require continuous engagement. Tax filing should be a routine part of a larger process. Proactive communication can prevent last-minute rushes. Understanding the annual client cycle is essential for effective management. Routine check-ins can alleviate end-of-year stress. Clients often view tax preparation as just another step in the process. Effective client management requires clear scope and engagement definitions. Building a knowledge base can enhance client communication and service. Keywords: technology, client management, annual cycle, proactive engagement, communication, tax preparation, client relationships, advisory services, workflow, business strategy

In this conversation, Mo and Paul discuss the challenges of navigating tax season, the evolving nature of client engagements, and the generational shifts in client expectations. They explore the role of meetings in client relationships, emphasizing the need for effective communication and understanding client dynamics. The discussion highlights the importance of adapting to new client behaviors and the necessity of balancing traditional practices with modern expectations. Navigating tax season can be challenging but rewarding. Younger clients often prefer electronic communication over in-person meetings. Generational shifts are changing client expectations in the tax industry. Meetings should focus on knowledge transfer rather than routine tasks. Clients today are more dismissive of their financial responsibilities. Effective communication is key to understanding client needs. Legacy clients may require different engagement strategies than new clients. The role of technology in client interactions is increasingly important. Firms must adapt to changing client dynamics to remain competitive. Team collaboration is essential in managing client relationships. Keywords: tax season, client engagement, generational shifts, meetings, client dynamics, tax returns, electronic communication, legacy clients, firm culture, client expectations

In this episode, Mo and Paul discuss the evolving landscape of advisory services in the context of AI and technology. They explore how AI tools like ChatGPT are being integrated into client interactions, the importance of maintaining a human element in advisory roles, and the future implications for professionals in the industry. The conversation highlights the need for advisors to adapt to changing client expectations and the potential for AI to enhance, rather than replace, the advisory relationship. AI is becoming increasingly efficient in client interactions. Advisors must focus on implementation, not just information. The human element in advisory services remains crucial. Clients are using AI for financial advice more frequently. Advisory roles will evolve with technology advancements. AI can serve as a valuable tool for advisors. Understanding client needs is essential in a tech-driven world. The pace of change in the industry is accelerating. Advisors should embrace AI to enhance their services. Starting to use AI tools can lead to significant efficiencies.

Paul and Mo discuss how important it is to reset a client relationship and provide tips on how to do that on a regular basis.