Roger and Annie welcome Alan Pinck, EA and moderator of Tax Talk Today, for a wide-ranging conversation about his transition from hospitality management to tax representation work. Alan shares war stories from the days of preparing returns by hand, explains why treating IRS auditors with respect yields better outcomes than adversarial tactics, and discusses the critical differences between examination and collections work. The conversation covers everything from ghost preparers and ERC problems to building a year-round practice, teaching strategies, and why the most important day of tax season is April 16th.

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Connect with Alan
https://www.linkedin.com/in/alan-pinck-ea-1b29b66
https://apincktax.com/

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Chapters

• (00:00) - Introduction and Welcome
• (01:05) - Special Guest Introduction: Alan Pink
• (02:13) - Alan's Journey into Tax Profession
• (04:57) - Challenges and Anecdotes in Tax Preparation
• (13:09) - Representation and Audits
• (22:28) - Collections vs. Examination
• (29:12) - Current Issues and Credits
• (30:06) - Taxpayer Liability and Rule Changes
• (31:11) - Understanding Captive Insurance
• (33:35) - Advice for New Tax Professionals
• (34:33) - NAEA and Educational Programs
• (38:21) - Becoming a Tax Talk Moderator
• (41:36) - Challenges and Rewards of Live Shows
• (51:12) - Upcoming Speaking Engagements
• (53:19) - Final Thoughts and Farewell

This podcast is a production of Earmark Media

The full transcript for this episode is available by clicking on the Transcript tab at the top of this page

All content from this podcast by SmallBizPros, Inc. DBA PADGETT BUSINESS SERVICES is intended for informational purposes only.

Roger and Annie sit down with Blake Oliver, founder of Earmark, to cut through the AI confusion. Blake explains why AI is more like a brilliant Harvard-trained intern with amnesia than a tax professional replacement, sharing practical applications from document organization to quality control that can work in firms today. The conversation explores which AI tools are worth trying, why voice mode changes everything, and why tax professionals who start experimenting now are still early adopters, not late to the party.

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Chapters

• (00:00) - Welcome to Federal Tax Updates
• (01:19) - Guest Introduction: Blake Oliver
• (03:27) - Diving into AI: Initial Thoughts and Comparisons
• (07:58) - Understanding AI and Its Limitations
• (15:47) - Effective Use of AI in Accounting
• (21:41) - Choosing the Right AI Tools
• (24:49) - Security and Cost Considerations
• (30:46) - Best Practices and Pitfalls in AI Usage
• (33:17) - AI Struggles with Tax Complexity
• (34:34) - Human Verification in Tax Analysis
• (35:01) - AI's Limitations and Cost
• (36:29) - Misconceptions About AI in Tax
• (40:25) - AI's Role in Administrative Tasks
• (41:47) - AI in Quality Control and Research
• (43:26) - AI in Radiology and Tax
• (50:10) - Future of AI in Transportation
• (53:05) - AI in Manufacturing and Economy
• (56:17) - Adapting to AI in the Accounting Industry
• (57:21) - Conclusion and Final Thoughts

This podcast is a production of Earmark Media

The full transcript for this episode is available by clicking on the Transcript tab at the top of this page

All content from this podcast by SmallBizPros, Inc. DBA PADGETT BUSINESS SERVICES is intended for informational purposes only.

Drawing from insights gathered at five IRS tax forums this year, Roger and Annie are joined by Jeff, Amanda, and Katarina to tackle the three most pressing challenges facing small accounting firms. From remote hiring strategies to why 90% of clients accept fee increases to essential marketing basics, this episode shows how hiring, pricing, and marketing work together to create a thriving, sellable practice. Whether you're drowning in capacity issues or preparing for eventual retirement, these proven strategies offer a roadmap out of the daily grind.

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Padgett - Contact Padgett or Email Jeff Phillips

• (00:00) - Welcome to Federal Tax Updates
• (01:10) - Overview of Today's Podcast
• (01:27) - Insights from IRS Forums
• (02:43) - Key Challenges in the Industry
• (04:20) - Deep Dive into Hiring Issues Pricing Strategies and Challenges
• (07:38) - Introducing Jeff Phillips on Hiring
• (08:53) - Remote Work and Hiring
• (28:41) - Introduction and Struggles with Pricing
• (29:10) - Linking Pricing to Hiring Challenges
• (30:08) - Consequences of Poor Pricing
• (31:55) - Implementing a Pricing System
• (33:35) - Client Reactions to Price Increases
• (36:16) - Timing and Strategy for Raising Fees
• (46:31) - Marketing and Growth Strategies
• (48:07) - Importance of Online Presence
• (50:52) - Leveraging Reviews and Referrals
• (01:01:33) - Concluding Thoughts and Future Plans

Connect with the Hosts on LinkedIn
Roger Harris
Annie Schwab

Review
Leave a review on Apple Podcasts or Podchaser

Subscribe
Subscribe to the Federal Tax Updates podcast in your favorite podcast app!

This podcast is a production of Earmark Media

The full transcript for this episode is available by clicking on the Transcript tab at the top of this page

All content from this podcast by SmallBizPros, Inc. DBA PADGETT BUSINESS SERVICES is intended for informational purposes only.

Roger and Annie break down the preliminary list of occupations qualifying for tax-free tips, including some unexpected entries like plumbers and digital creators. They discuss the compliance headaches ahead with retroactive implementation but no updated forms until 2026. The conversation shifts to serious concerns about proposed IRS budget cuts and workforce reductions that could undermine tax enforcement when it's needed most.

Sponsors
Padgett - Contact Padgett or Email Jeff Phillips

• (00:00) - Introduction and Greetings
• (01:25) - Upcoming Tax Deadlines
• (02:41) - No Tax on Tips: New Guidelines
• (04:16) - Industries and Occupations Affected
• (12:25) - Compliance and Documentation Challenges
• (16:24) - W-4 and W-2 Form Changes
• (26:04) - Call to Action: Comment on Proposed Forms
• (30:27) - Upcoming Changes to W2 Forms
• (31:16) - New Codes for Tips and Overtime
• (33:38) - IRS Budget Cuts and Workforce Reduction
• (36:42) - Impact of Budget Cuts on IRS Operations
• (39:29) - Challenges in IRS Enforcement and Compliance
• (48:12) - The Role of Practitioners and IRS Communication
• (55:00) - Future of IRS and Tax Law Changes
• (56:40) - Conclusion and Listener Engagement

Connect with the Hosts on LinkedIn
Roger Harris
Annie Schwab

Review
Leave a review on Apple Podcasts or Podchaser

Subscribe
Subscribe to the Federal Tax Updates podcast in your favorite podcast app!

This podcast is a production of the Earmark Media

The full transcript for this episode is available by clicking on the Transcript tab at the top of this page

All content from this podcast by SmallBizPros, Inc. DBA PADGETT BUSINESS SERVICES is intended for informational purposes only.

Roger and Annie break down the aftermath of Commissioner Billy Long's abrupt departure to become Ambassador to Iceland, leaving Treasury Secretary Scott Bessent as acting commissioner amid widespread IRS staff cuts and uncertainty. They also explore the massive 900+ page "Big Beautiful Bill" (2025 Act), covering everything from permanent individual tax rate changes and Trump savings accounts for children to the new tip and overtime tax exclusions that expire in 2028. The discussion also covers significant business provisions like permanent QBI deductions, higher 1099 thresholds, and the systematic elimination of energy credits through 2028.

Sponsors
Padgett - Contact Padgett or Email Jeff Phillips

• (00:00) - Welcome o Federal Tax Updates
• (01:03) - Recap of Previous Podcast with IRS Stakeholder Liaison
• (01:53) - Discussion on IRS Forums and Observations
• (06:14) - Changes in IRS Leadership
• (09:19) - Impact of IRS Leadership Changes on Operations
• (19:08) - Big Beautiful Bill Overview
• (28:05) - Individual Tax Changes in the 2025 Act
• (31:28) - Changes to Standard Deductions and Itemization
• (33:26) - Paid Leave and Adoption Credits
• (35:26) - New Trump Accounts and Education Savings
• (39:50) - Tax Benefits for Workers: Tips and Overtime
• (46:31) - Senior Tax Benefits and Auto Loan Interest Deduction
• (47:57) - Business Tax Provisions: QBI Deduction and Depreciation
• (52:44) - Energy Credits and Their Phase-Out
• (56:42) - Political Implications and Conclusion

Connect with the Hosts on LinkedIn
Roger Harris
Annie Schwab

Review
Leave a review on Apple Podcasts or Podchaser

Subscribe
Subscribe to the Federal Tax Updates podcast in your favorite podcast app!

This podcast is a production of the Earmark Media

The full transcript for this episode is available by clicking on the Transcript tab at the top of this page

All content from this podcast by SmallBizPros, Inc. DBA PADGETT BUSINESS SERVICES is intended for informational purposes only.

Recorded live from the New Orleans Tax Forum, Roger and Annie sit down with Maggie Romaniello from IRS Stakeholder Liaison to discuss this often overlooked but crucial IRS department. Maggie explains how Stakeholder Liaison serves as an advocate for tax professionals and their clients, handling everything from systemic issues like erroneous extension letters to data breach incidents and disaster response. The conversation reveals how practitioners can access this free resource directly through the IRS website and highlights the department's role in pushing for technological improvements like online accounts and streamlined processes.

Sponsors
Padgett - Contact Padgett or Email Jeff Phillips

• (00:00) - Introduction and Setting the Scene
• (01:02) - Overview of IRS Tax Forums
• (01:37) - Special Guest: Maggie Romaniello from Stakeholder Liaison
• (03:07) - History and Evolution of Stakeholder Liaison
• (04:57) - Current Challenges and Changes in Stakeholder Liaison
• (05:53) - Addressing Practitioner Issues and Communication
• (16:05) - How to Contact Stakeholder Liaison
• (19:55) - Introduction to Data Safetys
• (22:07) - Steps to Take After a Data Breach
• (24:00) - IRS Support and Resources
• (25:12) - State-Specific Requirements for Data Breaches
• (27:11) - The Importance of Online Accounts
• (28:45) - Setting Up and Using IRS Online Accounts
• (37:28) - Power of Attorney and Tax Pro Accounts
• (42:31) - Handling Disasters and IRS Outreach

Connect with Maggie
LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/margaret-romaniello-5189758a

Connect with the Hosts on LinkedIn
Roger Harris
Annie Schwab

Review
Leave a review on Apple Podcasts or Podchaser

Subscribe
Subscribe to the Federal Tax Updates podcast in your favorite podcast app!

This podcast is a production of the Earmark Media

The full transcript for this episode is available by clicking on the Transcript tab at the top of this page

All content from this podcast by SmallBizPros, Inc. DBA PADGETT BUSINESS SERVICES is intended for informational purposes only.

Washington DC tax expert Thad Inge joins the show again for a deep dive into the Big Beautiful Bill. He breaks down the tax legislation that extends TCJA provisions and introduces new benefits like tax-free tips and overtime. Together with Annie and Roger, they explore the surprising speed of the political process, the complex implementation challenges ahead, and what small business owners and individuals need to know right now. From ERC changes to new car loan deductions, this comprehensive breakdown separates the reality from the hype surrounding one of the most significant tax bills in recent years.

Sponsors
Padgett - Contact Padgett or Email Jeff Phillips

• (00:00) - Welcome to Federal Tax Updates
• (02:14) - Overview of the Big Beautiful Bill
• (02:43) - The Legislative Process and Political Dynamics
• (06:53) - Key Provisions and Extensions in the Bill
• (09:33) - Tax Policy vs. Political Strategy
• (11:33) - State and Local Tax (SALT) Debate
• (17:25) - Cost and Budget Considerations
• (26:24) - New Tax Provisions: Tips and Overtime
• (29:07) - Implementation Challenges and Guidance
• (34:18) - Transition Relief and State Standards
• (37:16) - Overtime and Salary Dynamics
• (38:17) - IRS Withholding Rules
• (42:24) - Employee Retention Credit (ERC) Updates
• (48:17) - Business Deductions and Expensing
• (52:22) - New Tax Provisions for Seniors and Car Loans
• (54:59) - Energy Credits and Legislative Negotiations
• (56:35) - Final Thoughts and Future Outlook

Connect with Thad Inge
LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/thad-inge-9342155
Website: https://www.vsadc.com/

Connect with the Hosts on LinkedIn
Roger Harris
Annie Schwab

Review
Leave a review on Apple Podcasts or Podchaser

Subscribe
Subscribe to the Federal Tax Updates podcast in your favorite podcast app!

This podcast is a production of the Earmark Media

The full transcript for this episode is available by clicking on the Transcript tab at the top of this page

All content from this podcast by SmallBizPros, Inc. DBA PADGETT BUSINESS SERVICES is intended for informational purposes only.

Tax professional data breaches have exploded in 2025, with 327 reported incidents affecting over 342,000 taxpayers in just half a year. Glenn Gizzy, a 36-year IRS veteran now specializing in data breach prevention, reveals the sophisticated tactics criminals use to infiltrate tax practices. From phishing emails disguised as client referrals, to hackers who wait until returns are filed before changing bank account information. This conversation covers essential protection measures including Written Information Security Plans (WISP), IP PINs, proper cyber insurance coverage, and the critical steps to take immediately after discovering a breach.

Sponsors
Padgett - Contact Padgett or Email Jeff Phillips

• (00:00) - Introduction and Greetings
• (02:21) - Today's Guest and Topic: Scams and Data Breaches
• (02:56) - IRS Statistics on Data Breaches
• (05:33) - Common Scams and How They Work
• (09:48) - Phishing Emails and Ransomware
• (14:51) - Fake Charities and Donation Scams
• (17:30) - Refund Thefts and Data Breaches
• (21:28) - IRS Communication and Taxpayer Awareness
• (30:10) - Signs of a Data Breach for Practitioners
• (32:42) - Immediate Steps After a Data Breach
• (34:32) - Multi-Step Process and Insurance Involvement
• (37:42) - Filing Returns After a Breach
• (40:54) - Identity Protection PIN (IP PIN)
• (48:10) - Written Information Security Plan (WISP)
• (53:06) - Protecting EFIN, PTIN, and CAF Numbers
• (55:25) - Final Thoughts and Conclusion

Get NASBA Approved CPE or IRS Approved CE
Launch the course on EarmarkCPE to get free CPE/CE for listening to this episode.

Connect with the Roger and Annie on LinkedIn
https://www.linkedin.com/in/rogerharrispbs/
https://www.linkedin.com/in/annie-schwab-852418261/

Review
Leave a review on Apple Podcasts or Podchaser

Subscribe
Subscribe to the Federal Tax Updates podcast in your favorite podcast app!

This podcast is a production of the Earmark Media