Shows
Diary of a Tax Practice OwnerNo More 90-hour work weeks: How Catherine Roe Built a Balanced, Successful Tax Practice // Ep.32In this episode of Diary of a Tax Practice Owner, we welcome Catherine Roe, founder of Cowart Roe CPA and Cowart Roe Academy. Catherine shares her inspiring journey from a traditional accounting career to owning a successful virtual CPA firm and becoming an advocate for work-life balance.Discover how she navigated career challenges, leveraged technology, and wrote her bestselling book, 'No More 24/7: Entrepreneurs Take Your Life Back'.Connect with Catherine Roe -www.cowartroecpa.com www.cowartroeacademy.comhttps://www.linkedin.com/in/catcowartroe/ ✅ Links to W4TP Resources:👉🏻...2025-06-0929 min
My Enrolled Agent CareerJessica Smith, EA - My Enrolled Agent CareerEpisode 5: In this episode, Timalyn welcomes her first guest to the podcast, Jessica Smith, EA. Jessica is no stranger to sharing the screen with Timalyn. In 2024, Jessica joined Timalyn on her YouTube channel. You can check out some tips that Jessica and her business partner, Jamie Gruol, shared in a 2024 interview - Mastering Tax Season: Automated TaxDome Workflows for Enrolled Agents. During this conversation, Jessica candidly shares her story about how she learned of the EA designation and decided to take the exam. Her career took her straight to...2025-06-0940 min
Diary of a Tax Practice OwnerRedefining Accounting: How to Build a Marketing Strategy That Works for Your Firm with Kristen Corey // Ep.31In this episode of Diary of a Tax Practice Owner, Jamie welcomes Kristen, founder of Media Books, who tells her journey from an accountant to a creative marketer.Discover how Kristen leveraged her skills in marketing to create a unique niche for herself in online marketing for accountants, bookkeepers, and tax professionals. Learn about the importance of personal branding, niche specialization, and how a well-crafted website can pre-sell your services.They dive deep into:✨Why cookie-cutter websites don’t work anymore (and what to do instead)✨How personal branding builds trust...2025-05-2637 min
Diary of a Tax Practice OwnerHow Josie Built a Boutique Tax Practice with Just 50 Clients and No Team // Ep.30In this inspiring episode, Jamie Gruol interviews the expert Josie Parr-CPA, tax strategist, and founder of Solo Tax Coach. From grinding 70-hour weeks at a top 100 firm to building a boutique, high-profit practice working just 20 hours a week, Josie’s story is both raw and empowering.The Episode dives deep into:The moment Josie knew corporate life was no longer sustainableHow she overcame fear and scarcity to launch her solo firmThe role of boundaries, automations, and intentional client workHow she now helps other tax professionals build lifestyle-first businessesConnect with Josie - Jo...2025-05-1239 min
Diary of a Tax Practice OwnerWhy I Walked Away from Corporate to Help Tax Pros Reclaim Their Time // Ep.29Join Jamie Gruol in this solo episode of Diary of a Tax Practice Owner as she shares her journey from traditional accounting to creating a business that supports her life, not the other way around. Learn the importance of automating your practice with technology and implementing systems to achieve a balanced and fulfilling life. Jamie discusses how her background and skills have led her to help other small practice owners transform their businesses for greater freedom and joy. Discover practical tips on building a life-first business, and take a moment to reflect on what that...2025-05-0516 min
Diary of a Tax Practice OwnerHow Jessica took her first two week Vacation as a Tax Practice Owner Without her Business Falling Apart // Ep.28In this episode of "Diary of a Tax Practice Owner," hosts Jamie Groul and Jessica Smith tackle the critical but often overlooked topic of taking time off as a tax professional. They share personal experiences and practical advice for building a practice that allows for guilt-free vacations, even during the busiest seasons.Episode Highlights:Why taking extended breaks is essential for tax professionals to prevent burnout and uplevel their business mindsetJessica's journey from corporate "no time off" culture to creating a practice that accommodates planned absencesHow to handle client expectations around your availability during tax seasonThe...2025-03-3123 min
Diary of a Tax Practice OwnerBreaking the Growth Trap: Why More Clients Won't Fix Your Tax Practice // Ep. 27In this insightful episode of "Diary of a Tax Practice Owner," co-hosts Jamie Gruol and Jessica Smith tackle the all-too-common "growth trap" that ensnares many tax professionals. Jessica shares her personal journey from an underpriced, compliance-focused practice with 250+ returns to a thriving advisory business built on effective systems and higher-value clients.Episode Highlights:Why adding more low-value clients only compounds existing problemsThe dangers of underpricing and poor onboarding processesHow implementing automated systems created time freedom without sacrificing client experienceThe transition from compliance-only to high-value advisory servicesStrategies for attracting ideal clients who value relationships over transactionsWhy "fluffy"...2025-03-2423 min
Diary of a Tax Practice OwnerHow to stop letting your clients run your business and set Boundaries that increase your profit // Ep.26In this episode of Diary of A Tax Practice Owner, hosts Jamie Gruol and Jessica discuss the importance of setting boundaries as business owners. They share personal experiences and insights into how boundaries can lead to better client relationships, improved client satisfaction, and a more sustainable business model. Jessica reflects on her journey from being a support team member to owning a successful tax practice, emphasizing the role of mindset and peer support in establishing effective boundaries. They also provide practical tips for communicating boundaries to clients and maintaining a balance between professional and personal life.2025-03-1721 min
Diary of a Tax Practice OwnerHow to Build a Virtual Tax Practice that Gives You Freedom ( Even During Tax Season ) // Ep.25Join hosts Jamie Gruol and Jessica Smith as they discuss the common challenges tax practice owners face during tax season and the benefits of moving towards more efficient, tech-supported, and virtual practices. This episode delves into the importance of standardized operating procedures (SOPs), the transformational impact of practice management software like TaxDome, and real-life success stories of tax professionals who have significantly improved their operations. If you're looking to reduce manual processes, improve client communication, and increase profitability, this discussion offers valuable insights and practical advice.Don't miss this inspiring episode of Diary of a Practice Owner!2025-03-1031 min
Diary of a Tax Practice OwnerHow Jessica Works 35 Hours a Week While Running a Six-Figure Tax Firm With a Lean Team. // Ep.24In this episode of 'Diary of a Tax Practice Owner,' co-host Jamie Gruol interviews Jessica Smith about her journey in transforming her tax practice. They discuss how Jessica manages to work less than 35 hours a week, maintain a high-value client base, and enjoy family time despite the challenging tax season. Jessica shares her experience from the early days of starting her practice in 2020, the importance of flexibility, and overcoming obstacles including client objections and adopting new technologies. Discover how strategic planning, setting boundaries, and leveraging tools like Tax Dome have enabled her to build a successful, efficient, and...2025-03-0326 min
Diary of a Tax Practice OwnerHow to fire PAIN IN THE A$$ CLIENTS and all about setting boundaries. // Ep.23In this episode of Diary of a Tax Practice Owner, we delve into the challenges of dealing with 'Pain in the Ass' (PETA) clients. Joined by Jessica, we discuss the mindset behind firing such clients, the importance of mutual respect in client relationships, and the toll it takes on personal life. Jessica shares stories of her experiences and how setting boundaries has transformed her tax practice. Learn about strategies for enforcing clear communication, the value of systems like Taxdome, and the strength of mentorship in navigating these tough decisions. Tune in to empower yourself with the tools...2025-02-2429 min
Diary of a Tax Practice OwnerEp. 22 - How a Simple Payroll Mistake Led to a Criminal InvestigationIn this episode of Diary of a Tax Practice Owner, Jessica Smith shares a jaw-dropping story that starts with a simple employee misclassification case but quickly unravels into something much more sinister. What happens when the IRS starts digging and finds more than just payroll mistakes? A family-run business, no payroll, an independent contractor setup that didn’t add up, and a mysterious father lurking behind the scenes—could this taxpayer’s dad actually be tied to organized crime? 😳Join Jamie and Jessica as they spill the tea on how a routine tax audit turned into a full-blow...2025-02-1720 min
Diary of a Tax Practice OwnerEp. 21 - From Sugar Baby to Tax Scandal: The Shocking Case That Unveiled a Money Laundering Scheme!Welcome back to Diary of a Tax Practice Owner! 🎙️👉 Disclaimer: No, we're not promoting tax fraud—but we’re spilling the tea on how to spot it.In this juicy episode, co-hosts Jamie Gruol and Jessica Smith dive into one of Jessica’s most unforgettable cases. A sugar baby turned client raises eyebrows with her six-figure income and some very suspicious transactions. 💰What started as routine tax filing quickly unraveled into a tangled web of high-stakes relationships, luxury assets, and potential money laundering. Discover how Jessica’s team uncovered red flags, mitigated risks, and navigated the m...2025-02-1020 min
Diary of a Tax Practice OwnerEp.20 - How Small Tax Evasion Mistakes Can Cost Big: The Shocking Story of a client with Jessica & JamieMiniseries: Spill the Tea with Jessica & Jamie. In this episode of Diary of a Tax Practice Owner, hosts Jamie Gruol and Jessica Smith dive into a special four-part series about the risks of dealing with “crazy” and risky clients. They kick off the series by discussing one particularly alarming case involving a client who was unknowingly caught up in a tax evasion scheme. Jessica shares her firsthand experience working with a promoter of an abusive trust tax evasion scheme, shedding light on how social media has played a role in spreading misleading tax advice.Listen in a...2025-02-0324 min
Diary of a Tax Practice OwnerEp.019 - Building a $2M Tax Practice: Building a Sellable Firm Without Working 80 HoursWelcome back to another edition of Diary of a Tax Practice Owner! In this episode, we are joined by Fred Stein, the esteemed tax director at BQ Tax and Accounting LTD. Fred shares his journey of growing a multi-state tax practice and discusses crucial strategies for acquisitions and exit planning. With over 30 years of experience in accounting and tax, Fred offers valuable insights into building a successful practice, managing client relationships, and preparing for retirement. Whether you're just starting or planning your exit, don't miss this enriching conversation that could transform the way you...2024-12-1624 min
Diary of a Tax Practice OwnerEp.018 - How to Build Systems That Keep Your Tax Practice Running During Personal Crisis with Tonya YudizkyIn this powerful episode of Diary of a Tax Practice Owner, host Jamie Gruol interviews Tonya Yudizky, a tax professional with over 20 years of experience who shares her remarkable journey from military service to building a successful tax practice through multiple life challenges.Key Highlights:Tonya's unique path from military service to discovering her passion for tax workBuilding a successful practice focusing on the transportation industryManaging massive business growth while homeschooling children during the pandemicNavigating personal loss and health challenges while running a practiceHow implementing proper systems allowed her business to continue during a medical emergencyTransitioning...2024-12-0941 min
Diary of a Tax Practice OwnerEp.017 - Effective Delegation and Letting Go of Control in Your Tax Firm with Leslie LiondasJoin us in this episode of 'Diary of a Tax Practice Owner' featuring the insightful Leslie Liondas, a CPA and trailblazer in the accounting industry, as she shares her journey and expertise in scaling accounting firms.Leslie discusses her personal experiences, including overcoming challenges as a single mom while managing at Hobby Lobby, and how she later co-founded a successful accounting firm with Lynn.Together, they specialize in process optimization, business advisory, and leadership, focusing on sustainable growth and healthy work-life balance. Learn about the importance of delegation, efficient systems like ClickUp, and their transformative...2024-12-0240 min
Diary of a Tax Practice OwnerEp.016 - Shannon Weinstein’s Shift from Big Four to becoming a Fractional CFOIn this episode of 'Diary of a Tax Practice Owner,' Shannon Weinstein shares her transformative journey from resisting her CPA father's advice to becoming a fractional CFO. Despite her initial love for Spanish, Shannon eventually discovered her passion for accounting, leading her through an impressive career with Big Four firms in Boston and financial services. Transitioning from feeling undervalued in traditional roles, she started her accounting firm focusing on high-value, bespoke services for fitness professionals. The conversation touches on building a culture of exceptional service, blending personal touches with efficient processes inspired by 'Unreasonable Hospitality...2024-11-2540 min
Diary of a Tax Practice OwnerEp.015 - Why Tax Pros Are Overworked—and How Tech Can Change That with Jessica & JamieIn this episode of 'Diary of a Tax Practice Owner,' host Jamie Gruol and guest Jessica Smith explore the transformative impact of technology on tax practices. They highlight how efficient systems lead to time freedom, improved relationships, better health, and reduced mental strain. By leveraging tools like the TaxDome platform and integrating boundaries around client communications, tax professionals can enhance productivity and maintain a better work-life balance. The conversation includes practical advice on implementing technology gradually, emphasizing structured scheduling, designated communication channels, and the importance of setting clear boundaries with clients. Both speakers share personal experiences...2024-11-1822 min
Diary of a Tax Practice OwnerEp.014 - Master Your Money Mindset: How Accountants and Tax Pros Can Thrive with Alyssa J DillonJoin us in this transformative episode of The Diary Of a Tax Practice Owner where we delve deep into the money mindset that can revolutionize your business. Featuring Alyssa J. Dillon, a successful entrepreneur who has scaled her business to over $3 million and helped thousands of women achieve six-figure incomes. Learn from Alyssa's journey and discover practical strategies for sustainable growth, client acquisition, and transitioning from an employee mindset to a CEO mindset. This episode is packed with actionable advice on professionalism, personal growth, and achieving financial success while preparing your business for the future.Connect with...2024-11-1134 min
Diary of a Tax Practice OwnerEp. 013 - The Hidden Challenges of Building a Tax Practice with Chris LazzuriAre you ready to uncover the secrets that could make or break your tax practice? In this episode of Diary of a Tax Practice Owner, we sit down with the incredible Chris Lazzuri, who pulls back the curtain on the hidden challenges of building a successful tax practice.From navigating client expectations to managing team dynamics, Chris reveals the hard truths that most tax professionals face but rarely talk about. You won’t want to miss his expert insights on overcoming obstacles and seizing growth opportunities that others overlook.Is your practice stagnating? Learn how to...2024-11-0432 min
Diary of a Tax Practice OwnerEp.012 - Building a Seamless Lead Management System with Jessica SmithIn this episode of Diary of a Tax Practice Owner, I'm thrilled to have Jessica back with me to explore strategies for tax practice owners looking to bring on new clients for the upcoming tax season. We discuss the importance of having efficient lead management systems and dive into Jessica's personal journey to transitioning into a virtual practice. She shares her early challenges with manual client referral processes and the transformation she experienced by adopting automation solutions.We also touch on the crucial role of maintaining an online presence, developing a streamlined lead qualification process, and embracing...2024-10-2827 min
Diary of a Tax Practice OwnerEo.011 - Doubling Your Tax Practice: Lessons from Former IRS Agent, Karen CollopyIn this episode of 'Diary of a Tax Practice Owner,' we sit down with Karen Collopy, one of our clients with a fascinating background as a former IRS revenue agent. Karen shares her journey of becoming an enrolled agent, specializing in clients who are a step up from TurboTax and small business owners filing Schedule C. We delve into her transition from a paper-based practice to a fully digital firm using Tax Dome, her strategies for client management, and how she successfully scaled her business from 250 to over 400 clients. Get inspired by her story and learn how she...2024-10-2139 min
Diary of a Tax Practice OwnerEp.010 - How Kirsten Reeder Went Fully Virtual with Her Tax Practice?In this episode of 'Diary of a Tax Practice Owner,' hosts Jamie Gruol and Jessica Smith welcome guest Kirsten Reeder, an enrolled agent and certified digital bookkeeper. Kirsten shares the journey of building her virtual tax and bookkeeping firm, Purple Sapphire Business Solutions, which serves clients across the U.S. She discusses the benefits and challenges of operating a virtual practice, the impact of using TaxDome for workflow automation, and offers practical advice for new practice owners, including the importance of documenting processes early on. Listeners will gain valuable insights into creating efficient, client-focused tax practices...2024-10-1435 min
Diary of a Tax Practice OwnerEp.009 - How to have Happier Clients and More Freedom in your tax practice?In this episode of Diary of a Tax Practice Owner, I, Jamie Gruol, discuss the importance of leveraging technology to enhance client experience and maintain professional boundaries. I respond to a comment from a Facebook group member expressing client resistance to using platforms like Taxdome.I emphasize the benefits of automated workflows and effective client communication in transitioning to new technologies. I share practical tips on standardizing procedures and improving client interaction, highlighting examples to demonstrate the positive impact of technological adoption in tax practices.Key Takeaways:Why your clients...2024-10-0718 min
Diary of a Tax Practice OwnerEp.008 - How to transition from a Corporate CPA to Thriving Tax Practice Owner with Ryan ElbeinIn this episode of Diary of a Tax Practice Owner, we welcome Ryan Elbein of Elbein CPA LLC, an accounting and tax practice based in Connecticut. Ryan shares his unique journey from studying criminal justice to becoming an accountant, his experiences working in the tax departments of large firms, and his role as a controller for a real estate developer. Discover how Ryan transitioned from a side gig to establishing his own tax and accounting practice, focusing on trade businesses. Learn about the challenges he faced, his drive for independence, and the growth of his...2024-09-3026 min
Diary of a Tax Practice OwnerEp. 007 - Transform Your Tax Practice with Online Marketing Strategies by Katie ThomasIn this episode of Diary of a Practice Owner, we chat with Katie Thomas, a CPA and founder of Leaders Online. Katie shares her inspiring journey of building a thriving tax and accounting practice, focusing on the power of technology and online marketing.About The Guest - Katie Thomas, CPA, has been recognized for her great work with a 40 under 40 CPA Practice Advisor recipient, Top 50 Women in Accounting recipient, and the owner of Leaders Online, where they help accounting professionals increase their impact, influence, and income through thought leadership and digital marketing. They work with...2024-09-2334 min
Diary of a Tax Practice OwnerEp.006 - From Hourly to Value-Based Pricing : How Jessica Transformed Her Tax PracticeIn this episode of Diary of a Tax Practice Owner, we dive deep into how the way you price your services can either limit or unlock your potential for growth. Join us as Jessica shares her powerful journey from the overwhelm of hourly billing to the freedom of value-based packages. Learn how standardizing her services transformed not only her business but also her life, giving her more control over her time and income.We discuss the struggles of tracking billable hours, the chaos it brought to her team, and why switching to a value-based pricing...2024-09-1620 min
Diary of a Tax Practice OwnerEp.005 - Navigating Growth, Burnout, and Client Strategies with Brenda CannonIn this episode, we dive deep into the journey of Brenda Cannon, a successful tax practice owner who’s mastered the balance between business growth and personal well-being. Brenda shares her candid experiences on overcoming burnout, navigating the challenges of scaling her firm, and developing client strategies that have driven both her success and fulfillment. Whether you’re a tax professional looking for insights on building a sustainable practice or simply interested in strategies for business transformation, this episode is packed with actionable takeaways. Tune in for an inspiring conversation that will empower you...2024-09-0932 min
Diary of a Tax Practice OwnerEp. 004 - Starting a Virtual CPA Firm: Diana Halenz's Journey from Corporate to Lifestyle BusinessIn this episode of Diary of a Practice Owner, we chat with Diana Halenz, a tax and accounting practice owner who has successfully built a virtual business from scratch.Diana shares her inspiring journey from corporate life to entrepreneurship, motivated by a desire for a more fulfilling career and a love for scuba diving. We delve into her strategies for building a virtual practice, including networking online, leveraging social media, and building relationships with industry professionals.Key Takeaways:The power of networking and building relationships in the online world.The importance of specialising in...2024-09-0233 min
Diary of a Tax Practice OwnerEp.003 - How can tax practices use systems and automation to enhance client experience?Welcome back to Diary of a Tax Practice Owner! This week, Jessica and I dive into the essentials of systems and automation for tax practices.Key Takeaways:✅ Understanding Systems: Think of systems as the ecosystem of your practice. They help manage workflows and keep everything running smoothly, much like Microsoft Office integrates various tools for productivity.✅ Automation Explained: Automation simplifies tasks like sending client updates or reminders. With tools like TaxDome, you can automate communication and task management, freeing up time and reducing manual errors.✅ Transforming Client Experience: Automation enhanc...2024-08-2624 min
Diary of a Tax Practice OwnerEp.002 - The Path From Tax Practice Owner To Educator with John Sheeley - Ep.02In this episode of Diary of a Tax Practice Owner, we're thrilled to have John Sheeley, a seasoned tax professional and mentor, as our guest. John shares his inspiring journey from owning multiple tax franchises to becoming a leading tax educator.About Our Guest John Sheeley is an Enrolled Agent with over 30 years of experience in the tax industry. Based in Chester, New York, he has a rich history in tax preparation, including owning multiple tax franchises and working as a tax manager at a regional CPA firm. He is the co-founder of Tax Practice...2024-08-2640 min
Diary of a Tax Practice OwnerEp.001 - Meet Jamie, Jessica & Workflows for Tax ProsLearn the story behind the magic! Jessica and Jamie met via the interwebs and not only became fast friends but also the masterminds behind Workflows for Tax Pros. Workflows for Tax Pros Our 12-month signature program is where the tax and accounting world's leading experts teach you how to build out your end-to-end automated system. Don't miss this opportunity to transform your business and your life! 2024-08-0729 min
The CFO ProjectHow to Automate Your Workflows for Profit and Time FreedomWelcome to the Escaping the Accountants Trap podcast. If you're an accountant, CPA, or bookkeeper looking to break free from the "accountant's trap" and unlock your true potential, you're in the right place. In today's episode, we delve into the key to your escape: streamlining your operations for a VIP client experience and reclaiming your valuable time. Join our guests, Jessica Smith and Jamie Gruol, founders of Workflows for Tax Pros, as they share their expertise on automating workflows to boost profitability and regain your work-life balance. Say goodbye to long hours, endless emails, and high-stress seasons. Let's get...2023-10-2424 min