Shows
Ambitious Accountants PodcastFrom Dairy Farming to Accounting: Matt Hipp's No-Bullshit Approach to Advisory WorkMatt Hipp's story isn't your typical accountant origin tale. The Director at Hipp Accounting in Hastings went from 4am cow milking in Taranaki to telling potential clients "if you just want your tax return done and forgotten about for 12 months, we're probably not the right fit."In this episode, Matt gets real about how he negotiated partnership with his mum (instead of just working for her), why he reckons work-life balance is complete rubbish, and his take on advisory work: "It's not about having all the answers...2025-07-2628 min
Ambitious Accountants PodcastFrom Five-Year-Old's Dream to Practice Owner: Patrick Leong's Journey to Advisory ExcellenceThis week, Sumith sits down with Patrick Leong, director of Mondo Advisory in New Plymouth, who's got one of the most unusual origin stories we've heard – he knew he wanted to be an accountant when he was just five years old! Patrick takes us through his career journey from Audit New Zealand to Deloitte, then into senior corporate roles before making the leap to practice ownership. What drove him? The classic accountant's dilemma: wanting that elusive work-life balance while building something meaningful. Patrick's refreshingly honest about the realities of buyi...2025-07-1930 min
Ambitious Accountants PodcastNavigating a Non-Traditional Path: From Army Dreams to Accounting Success with Tommy LiuIn this episode of Ambitious Accountants, host Sumith Dissanayake chats with Tommy Liu, Managing Director of Tommy & Co in Auckland. Tommy's story is mental - son of a Taiwanese army general who ended up in accounting because his grades weren't good enough for medicine, English was his second language for law, and engineering didn't work out. Classic Asian family expectations!Tommy talks about growing up barely seeing his dad (army camps and tanks as a kid though), how Māori values shaped his business approach in New Zealand, and his game-changing "2025-07-1232 min
Ambitious Accountants PodcastFrom Baker to AI Pioneer: How Jason Lougher is Revolutionising Accounting PracticeIn this episode of the Ambitious Accountants Podcast, Sumith Dissanayake chats with Jason Lougher, director of Calc Business Advisory and co-founder of Numera AI. Jason shares his journey from small-town baker to accounting firm owner and AI innovator after a wrist injury changed his career path. The conversation explores how process automation differs from AI and can transform accounting practices right now. They discuss Jason's approach to genuine work-life balance in his firm, tackling the industry's burnout crisis, and how automation can eliminate the mundane admin tasks that bog down accountants...2025-07-0427 min
Books To The BoardroomFrom Submariner to CFO: A Journey of Leadership and Operational Excellence"Understanding the problem puts you 50% of the way to addressing it."In this episode of Books of the Boardroom, Season Three of the CFO Catalyst Podcast, host Sumith welcomes Simon Turner, CFO and ELT member with nearly three decades of experience in finance. Simon shares insights from his unique career path, from serving on nuclear missile submarines in the Royal Navy to becoming a CFO. They discuss leadership, the importance of addressing problems head-on, the evolution of data analytics, the role of ESG in modern business, and the potential impact of AI on SMEs. Simon...2025-06-2927 min
Ambitious Accountants PodcastNavigating the US Tax Landscape from New Zealand: Insights with David TzimenakisIn this episode of the Ambitious Accountants Podcast, host Sumith speaks with David Tzimenakis, a specialist US tax consultant and Director at the US Tax Team in New Zealand. David shares his journey from working at a UK bank during the introduction of FATCA legislation to establishing his own tax consultancy firm in New Zealand. The discussion covers various aspects of US tax consultancy, including pre-migration advice, challenges in recruitment, importance of automation, and strategies for managing rapid business growth. David also emphasises the value of creating educational content to better prepare clients and offers advice to...2025-06-2727 min
Books To The BoardroomNavigating Finance and Entrepreneurship: Insights from Andre LuchesiIn this episode of 'Books of the Boardroom' podcast, Sumith chats with Andre Luchesi, Group CFO at Westpork and DBC in Western Australia. Andre's got a really interesting story - from corporate life to running his own ice cream business in Brazil and back to the CFO world.Andre talks about how economic cycles really work, why understanding the big picture macro stuff matters so much for CFOs, and how scooping ice cream taught him more about business empathy than any boardroom ever could.The conversation covers some great...2025-06-2429 min
Ambitious Accountants PodcastAn Interview with Ric Thorpe:Sidekick Chartered AccountantsWhat happens when a sales and marketing expert who "couldn't even do a GST return" becomes CEO of a 60-person accounting firm?Sumith chats with Ric Thorpe, Group CEO of Sidekick Chartered Accountants, about scaling an accounting practice from a completely different angle.Key insights:Why "success isn't just being the best - success is just doing it" (lessons from ultramarathons)Using RPA to save 30-90 minutes per tax return across thousands of clientsThe "SWAN" hiring philosophy: Smart, Work hard, Ambitious, NicePricing pitfalls that trap most accountantsWhy being selective with clients beats...2025-06-1433 min
Books To The BoardroomStrategic Financial Leadership: Winston Abeyeratne on Succeeding Down UnderIn this episode of the CFO Catalyst Podcast, host Sumith welcomes Winston Abeyeratne, CFO at Conference Group in South Australia. Winston shares his immigration journey, starting 12 years ago, and his career transition from audit trainee at KPMG in Sri Lanka to various roles in the finance sector in Australia. He discusses the importance of backing statements with numbers, the challenges of working with high-net-worth individuals, and provides advice for new migrants and aspiring CFOs on building a career in finance. The conversation also delves into the evolving role of CFOs, the impact of AI and m...2025-06-0831 min
Ambitious Accountants PodcastHarnessing Athletics and Entrepreneurship in Accounting with Ian BlackIn this episode of the Ambitious Accountant Podcast, host Sumith Dissanayake sits down with Ian Black, Founding Director of Direct Advisory in Hamilton, New Zealand. They discuss the busy periods in accounting, the influence of Ian's sports background on his professional career, his initial aspiration to become a lawyer, and the roots of his shift to accounting. Ian elaborates on the motivations and challenges behind starting Direct Advisory, the importance of clear communication with clients, and maintaining balance between work and personal life. He highlights the role of outsourcing and AI i...2025-06-0739 min
Ambitious Accountants PodcastRedefining the Accountant's Job | Jared Le Roy, Director of Embark AccountingRedefining the Role: Modernizing the Accountant's Image with Jared Le RoyIn this episode of the Ambitious Accountants Podcast, host Sumith Dissanayake sits down with Jared Le Roy, Director of Embark Accounting Limited in Dunedin, New Zealand. Jared discusses his mission to redefine the stereotypical image of accountants as boring number crunchers. He emphasises the importance of client relationships, innovative services, and leveraging technology to enhance the role of accountants. The conversation touches on Jared's career journey, the challenges and rewards of running a small ac...2025-06-0525 min
Books To The BoardroomCFO Conversations: Ben Edmonds on People, Strategy, and Finance TransformationNavigating the People-Centric Transformation in FinanceIn this episode of the Books to the Boardroom, season three of the CFO Catalyst Podcast, host Sumith is joined by Ben Edmonds, CFO at Alberts in Sydney. The conversation covers Ben's career journey from an early interest in tourism management to becoming a CFO, highlighting the influence of his father and his practical experiences in various financial roles. Ben emphasises the transformative nature of the CFO role, the importance of people and leadership in business, and the evolving landscape of accounting. He also discusses t...2025-06-0131 min
Books To The BoardroomNavigating the Modern CFO Role with David HillIn this episode of the CFO Catalyst Podcast, host Sumith welcomes David Hill, CFO of Mosh. They delve into the unchanging fundamentals of business and the evolving tools and skills required for successful financial leadership. David shares his unique journey from childhood entertainer to top finance executive, discussing the importance of critical thought, communication, and problem-solving in the CFO role. They also explore the democratisation of finance, the impact of AI and digital transformation, and the need for a nimble organisational structure. Tune in for insights on how CFOs can stay ahead in a...2025-05-0728 min
Books To The BoardroomManuel Nesta -Transformative Leadership: From Transactional Finance to Strategic AdvisoryJoin host Sumith and guest Manuel Nesta, a senior finance professional based in Perth, Australia. Manuel shares insights from his career journey and current role as CFO at Acquire, a software company specialising in natural resources and ESG compliance.Key points:The evolution of finance from transaction processing to strategic advisoryDigital transformation and automation in finance departmentsHow AI is revolutionizing financial processes and decision-makingThe growing importance of ESG reporting in the natural resources sectorLeveraging finance expertise to drive business strategy and growthMindset transformation needed when adopting new technologiesInsights on the role of immigrants in Australia's finance...2025-04-1229 min
Books To The BoardroomThe Gordon Ramsay of Finance: Martin Gyde on Leadership and TransformationIn the latest episode of the Boardroom Podcast's CFO Catalyst series, host Sumith welcomes Martin Gyde, an experienced CFO from New Zealand who calls himself "the Gordon Ramsay of Finance." Martin shares his journey from aspiring policeman to senior financial professional, influenced by his father, a former retail CEO. With his competitive nature shaped by a background in high-level rugby and tennis, Martin brings a refreshingly direct approach to financial leadership. After 25 years in CFO and CEO roles, Martin now helps struggling businesses through his consultancy, focusing on turnarounds and strategic transformation. He di...2025-04-0529 min
Books To The BoardroomCFO Catalyst: From Big Four to AI Innovation with Jarrod MageeNavigating the Finance Role in the Era of AI: Insights from Jarrod Magee, CFO of Sapia.aiIn this episode of "Books of the Boardroom Podcast" (Season 3: CFO Catalyst), host Smith dives deep with Jarrod Magee, CFO of Sapia.ai, exploring how artificial intelligence is transforming the finance function.Jarrod shares his journey from Deloitte consultant to C-suite executive, revealing the challenges and pivotal decisions that shaped his career. Get an insider's look at Sapia.ai’s cutting-edge recruitment technology that's eliminating bias and revolutionising hiring processes.The conversation explores practical st...2025-03-2130 min
Books To The BoardroomFresh Insights from Madhu Nair | EY AustraliaNavigating the Evolving Landscape of Auditing with EY's Madhu NairIn this episode of the Books of the Boardroom podcast, host Sumith talks with Madhu Nair, Partner at EY Australia, who brings nearly three decades of experience in the accounting profession.Madhu takes us on his professional journey from handwritten ledgers in India to becoming a Partner at one of the Big Four firms. He shares how his accountant father inspired his career choice and reflects on the satisfaction he's found staying with EY for 25 years while many peers migrated to commercial roles.2025-03-1626 min
Books To The BoardroomFresh Insights from Ilona Abram - Group CFO at Aquatic Achievers GroupFrom Dreams of Acting to Leading Finance - The Journey of Ilona Abram In this episode of Books in the Boardroom podcast, Ilona Abram shares her unconventional journey from aspiring actress to Group CFO at Aquatic Achievers Group. Hosted by Sumith, Ilona delves into her diverse career path, including her roles in HR, IT, and risk procurement beyond traditional finance. The discussion covers her experiences with significant business growth, mergers, and acquisitions, as well as her strategic approach to continuous improvement in finance. Ilona also shares insights on the evolving role of CFOs, th...2025-03-0929 min
Books To The BoardroomNavigating CFO Challenges: Insights from Rowan Darling, CFO, Clemenger BBDOIn this episode of the Books in the Boardroom podcast, we kick off Season 3, CFO Catalyst, by diving into the world of Chief Financial Officers. Host Sumith explores financial leadership with Rowan Darling, CFO at Clemenger BBDO. They discuss Rowan's transition from audit to commercial operations, the impact of AI in finance, and balancing short-term results with long-term investments. Rowan shares insights on talent development, emphasizing that willingness to learn often outweighs technical skills. The conversation covers leadership growth and aligning individual career goals with organisational objectives.00:00 Introduction: Skill vs. Will00:12 Welcome to Season 3: CFOs in...2025-03-0227 min
Ambitious Accountants PodcastBuilding Relationships and Finding Success in Insolvency with Nik Khatri, Principal Worrells QLDIn this episode, Jay Wijesekare has a heartfelt chat with Nikhil Khatri, Principal of Worrells Queensland, about his fascinating journey into the world of insolvency accounting. Nikhil opens up about how his early experiences around family businesses sparked a passion for numbers, eventually leading him into accounting, banking, and finance.He shares the pivotal moment when he stepped into the world of insolvency during the global financial crisis of 2008, and how that defining period shaped his career. Nikhil takes us through the highs and challenges of insolvency, highlighting the importance of managing relationships, communicating transparently, and helping...2024-10-2444 min
Ambitious Accountants PodcastBuilding a Purpose-Driven Business with Willie Eyels, Director of FreeUp Chartered AccountantsIn this episode of Ambitious Accountants, host Jay Wijesekare sits down with Willie Eyles, Director of FreeUp, a firm based in Auckland that specializes in accounting for non-profits. Willie shares his unique journey into the accounting world, starting from a career choice driven by the promise of financial freedom, to discovering his true passion for helping non-profits succeed.Willie takes us through his diverse career, from working with big firms like PwC to becoming a business partner at New Zealand Cricket, and eventually starting his own firm. He reflects on the challenges and rewards of working with...2024-10-2445 min
Ambitious Accountants PodcastFrom Numbers to Navigators with Wayne Buck, Principal of Wayne Buck ConsultingIn this episode of Ambitious Accountants, Jay Wijesekare sits down with Wayne Buck, Principal of Wayne Buck Consulting, to explore Wayne’s unique journey from city life to a peaceful rural setting while running his accounting consultancy. Wayne shares his rich experiences in the accounting world, from the traditional manual processes of the 70s to navigating today’s cloud-based accounting.Listeners will gain valuable insights as Wayne reflects on the importance of caring for clients beyond just financial reports, emphasising the need for accountants to take on an advisory role and build genuine relationships. He also touches on t...2024-10-2444 min
Ambitious Accountants PodcastFrom Big Firms to Startups with Stephen Hill, Finance Director at Opportuna CAIn this episode, Jay Wijesekare chats with Stephen Hill, Finance Director at Opportuna CA, about his inspiring journey in the world of accounting. Stephen shares his experiences working at big firms like EY and PwC, how he became CFO of a global company, and the importance of constantly learning and upskilling along the way.We also dive into his work where he’s helping startups thrive in New Zealand’s Taranaki region. Stephen highlights how building genuine connections and embracing new opportunities have been key to his success, and he offers great advice for anyone looking to grow...2024-10-2443 min
Ambitious Accountants PodcastBeyond the Numbers, Celebrating 25 Episodes with Adam Coleman, Director of Neovia Advisory on Building a Thriving Accounting FirmJoin us as we chat with Adam Coleman, Managing Director of Neovia, in this special 25th episode. Adam shares his journey from leading a thriving accounting firm to overcoming challenges and the importance of going beyond just tax compliance.We dive into how building long-term relationships and fostering a strong company culture have been key to Neovia’s success. Adam also speaks about his involvement as an active member of Russell Bedford International and how the organization has played a crucial role in Neovia’s growth.Plus, Adam offers valuable advice for aspiring accountants on embr...2024-08-3035 min
Ambitious Accountants PodcastThe Power Of Being Yourself with Nathan Watt, Director of Watson and WattIn this episode of Ambitious Accountants, our host Jay Wijesekare sits down with Nathan Watt, the Director of Watson and Watt. Nathan’s journey to a top-notch accountant is nothing short of inspiring.From the challenges he faced to the lessons he learned, Nathan shares his unique perspective on the accounting profession. He emphasies the importance of being practical and understanding the real-life implications of numbers.Whether you’re an aspiring accountant, a business owner, or just someone interested in the world of finance, this episode is packed with valuable insights and actionable advice.Tu...2024-08-2048 min
Ambitious Accountants PodcastBalancing Books, Business and Coaching with Bookkeeping Business Coach Stephanie CrawfordIn this episode of Ambitious Accountants, Jay Wijesekare chats with Stephanie Crawford, an amazing bookkeeper and business coach from New Zealand. Stephanie’s switch from banking in the US to bookkeeping and coaching in New Zealand is truly inspiring. She shares her experiences of starting and growing her business, balancing family life, and tackling the challenges bookkeepers face today. Stephanie also talks about the importance of community support, treating your business as your best client, and protecting your margins. Plus, hear success stories of bookkeepers she’s coached, including one who grew from a solo practice to a tea...2024-08-0837 min
Ambitious Accountants PodcastGrowing Your Firm with Sam Harith, Leveraging “The Comic Accountant” for Business SuccessJoin us on this episode as we sit down with Sam Harith, Director of SH Advisory from New Zealand. Sam shares his unconventional journey into the world of accounting, starting from practicality and evolving into a thriving business.Listen in as he talks about launching SH Advisory during the COVID-19 lockdown, his unique management style, and the growth of his firm. Sam also dives into his creative project, “The Comic Accountant,” where he combines his expertise in accounting with his love for drawing.It’s a conversation filled with genuine insights and inspiring stories about resili...2024-07-2548 min
Ambitious Accountants PodcastLeading The Way For More Inclusivity And Affinity with Numbers with Felicity Hill, Director Frank AccountingNumbers whiz by day, changemaker by night? Felicity Hill, Director Frank Accounting joins us to discuss her life's journey in accounting and her passion for diversity & inclusion in the field. Who else is ready to break the mold? #AmbitiousAccountants #WomenInAccountingGot something to say about the future of accounting in NZ? Let’s chat — you could be our next guest. Email - Sumith@brisca.co.nz2024-07-1231 min
Ambitious Accountants PodcastCreating Your Support System With Nickie Sheehan, Chief Encouragement Officer, Trio Accounting In this eye-opening episode, we sit down with Nickie Sheehan, Chief Encouragement Officer of Trio Accounting, to discuss her journey so far and her initiatives addressing a crisis plaguing small-time accounting firm owners. Nickie sheds light on the disturbing increase in suicides within the profession and underscores the importance of building a strong support circle. Listen in as she shares her proactive efforts in the community to ensure the well-being of fellow accountants. This is a must-listen for anyone in the profession seeking support and solidarity. Got something to say about the future of accounting in...2024-07-0136 min