In this episode of Behind the Books, we're joined by Vicki Campbell and Phil Jacklin from Thankyou Payroll.

This conversation is about far more than payroll.

We explore what it looks like to build a business that genuinely puts people, purpose and community first, and why success doesn't have to come at the expense of making a positive impact.

Vicki and Phil share the story behind Thankyou Payroll's unique social enterprise model, how they've embedded generosity and sustainability into everyday business decisions, and why authentic relationships remain at the heart of everything they do.

We also discuss the changing role of Bookkeepers, payroll challenges facing New Zealand businesses, workplace culture, stewardship ownership, and what businesses can do to create lasting impact.

This episode covers:

• The story behind Thankyou Payroll and its social enterprise mission
• Why purpose-driven businesses attract great people
• Building stronger relationships with Bookkeepers and clients
• Payroll challenges facing New Zealand businesses
• Cashflow, compliance and the future of payroll
• Steward ownership and protecting a business's mission
• Sustainability in everyday business decisions
• Creating a workplace culture people genuinely love
• Why authenticity builds trust with clients
• Practical advice for businesses wanting to make a positive impact

If you've ever wondered whether a business can successfully balance people, profit and purpose, this episode is full of practical ideas and inspiring stories.

🎧 Listen now and discover why business can be about so much more than the bottom line.

In this episode of Behind the Books, we’re joined by Ben Liebert, founder of SyncHub and Blackball Software.

This conversation is all about how Bookkeepers can stop wasting time on manual data work – and start using data to deliver real value to their clients.

Ben shares how SyncHub went from a one-week MVP to a globally used platform across 30+ countries, and why most businesses (and Bookkeepers) are sitting on a “treasure trove” of data they’re not actually using.

We also get into how AI is changing the way Bookkeepers can interact with data, moving beyond static reports to real-time insights and better client conversations.

This episode covers:

• Why Bookkeepers and businesses are sitting on unused data
• The real reason clean, structured data is still a challenge
• How AI is changing the way Bookkeepers can use data
• Common misconceptions about dashboards and reporting
• What truly data-driven businesses (and advisors) do differently
• How to move from manual reporting to real insights
• Practical ways to start using your data better – without over complicating it

If you’ve ever felt stuck in spreadsheets, unsure how to turn data into something meaningful for your clients, or wondering where AI fits into your role as a Bookkeeper – this episode is well worth a listen.

🎧 Listen now and start turning your data into better client outcomes.

In this episode of Behind the Books, we’re joined by Mike Kelly and Ata McGregor, Co-Founders of 2Shakes.

This conversation dives into what good onboarding actually looks like in a bookkeeping business, why so many Bookkeepers struggle with it, and how better systems can save time, reduce stress, and improve the client experience from day one.

Mike and Ata share the story behind 2Shakes, how it started from a government project around “authority to act”, and how it evolved into one of the most recognised onboarding and AML platforms for Bookkeepers in New Zealand.

We also get into:

• Why onboarding is more than just paperwork
• Common mistakes Bookkeepers make when taking on clients
• The risks of poor engagement letters and missing authorities
• How AML naturally fits into onboarding
• Why systems matter even for small or part-time Bookkeepers
• Scaling a bookkeeping business beyond your local area
• The reality of building a software business together as partners

Plus… there are camping stories, chocolate debates, presenter voices, and one very important conversation about goat-herding Bookkeepers.

This episode is practical, honest, and full of real-world insight for Bookkeepers at every stage of business.

🎧 Listen now and start turning your data into better client outcomes.