Meet Joe!

In this conversation, Joe Manganelli shares his journey from working at Goldman Sachs to founding and scaling Calculate, an outsourced accounting firm, and now leading Amalgam, a data aggregation and automation platform for the accounting industry.

He discusses the importance of building relationships in business, the value of smaller conferences, and the role of automation in enhancing efficiency within accounting practices. Joe emphasizes the need for persistence and trust in business, and he provides insights into the challenges and successes he faced while growing his ventures.

Takeaways

- Joe emphasizes the importance of building relationships in business.

- Conferences can be valuable for networking and relationship building.

- Trust is the cornerstone of successful sales in accounting.

- Automation can significantly reduce manual work in accounting.

- Persistence and time are crucial for business growth.

- Joe's experience at Goldman Sachs shaped his approach to business.

- Launching Calculate was a pivotal moment in Joe's career.

- The growth of Calculate was driven by quality work and client referrals.

- Amalgam aims to streamline data processes for accountants.

- Joe believes in the value of continuous learning and adaptation.

Sound Bites

"Give it time and persistence."

"Automation is the way forward."

Chapters

00:00 Introduction to Joe Manganielli and Amalgam

02:49 The Value of Conferences in Building Relationships

05:41 Journey from Engineering to Accounting

08:30 Experiences at Goldman Sachs

11:13 Launching Calculate: The Early Days

14:04 Growth and Success of Calculate

17:01 Recruitment Strategies for Rapid Growth

19:47 Niche Hiring and Employee Integration

22:42 Deciding to Sell Calculate

25:21 Reflections on the Sale and Future Plans

27:20 Navigating the M&A Process

30:40 Lessons from Selling a Business

31:33 Introducing Amalgam: A New Venture

36:58 The Role of Automation in Accounting

41:40 Future Goals and Entrepreneurial Spirit

42:45 Advice for New Accountants

46:29 Personal Insights and Rapid Fire Questions

Connect with Joe:

LinkedIn personal - https://www.linkedin.com/in/joemanganelli/

Amalgam - http://www.amalgam.me

Meet Justine!

In this episode of Protea Conversations, host Zane Stevens welcomes Justine Lackey, a pioneer in the virtual bookkeeping industry. Justine shares her journey from starting a business to successfully selling it, offering valuable insights and lessons learned along the way.

The Accidental Entrepreneur

Justine's entry into the world of bookkeeping was unplanned, beginning with her work in New York City's creative industry. She discusses the transition from in-person bookkeeping to virtual services, driven by personal circumstances and the evolving business landscape.

Building and Growing Good Cents Management

Justine reflects on the growth of her business, from a small operation to a thriving firm. The importance of asking questions and continuous learning in her journey. How she maintained strong client relationships and built a reputation for reliability and excellence.

The Decision to Sell

Justine shares her thought process behind deciding to sell her business, including personal and professional considerations. The challenges and strategies involved in preparing a business for sale. Insights into the selling process, including working with brokers and finding the right buyer.

Lessons Learned and Future

Endeavors Key takeaways from Justine's experience, including the importance of client retention and communication. Her transition to mentoring and educating other entrepreneurs through the Bookkeepers Business Incubator. The role of community and support networks in professional success.

Quotes:

"Asking for help is not a sign of weakness, it's a sign of strength."

"Your relationships are your equity."

Justine's story is a testament to the power of resilience, adaptability, and the willingness to learn. Her journey offers valuable lessons for entrepreneurs at any stage of their business journey.

Tune in to hear Justine's full story and gain insights into the process of selling a business, the importance of community, and the value of continuous learning.

Connect with Justine:

LinkedIn personal - https://www.linkedin.com/in/justinelackey/

Meet Erin!

In this episode of Protea Conversations, Zane interviews Erin Pohan, founder of Upkeeping, who shares her unique journey from customer service to becoming a successful entrepreneur in the accounting industry.

They discuss the importance of intentional growth, the challenges of pursuing a CPA, and the significance of creating relevant educational content.

Erin also talks about her experiences in public accounting, the launch of her own bookkeeping firm, and the community-building efforts through the Wave Seattle conference. The conversation emphasizes the value of connections, mindset, and the entrepreneurial spirit in the accounting world.

Takeaways

- Erin transitioned from customer service to accounting after discovering her passion for it.

- She emphasizes the importance of making accounting relevant and understandable.

- Erin's journey includes significant international experience while working in Japan.

- She faced challenges in passing the CPA exam but found success in her own firm.

- Creating educational content is a way to contribute to the future of accounting.

- Erin started Upkeeping after attending a bookkeeping workshop and quickly gained clients.

- Her firm serves a diverse client base, focusing on joy in the work.

- Continuous improvement in client communication is a key goal for Erin's business.

- Building a supportive team has been crucial for managing workload and stress.

- Networking through social media has helped Erin find her community in the accounting industry.

Chapters

00:00 Introduction to Modern Accounting

02:26 The Journey to Accounting

06:12 Career Development in Public Accounting

08:50 Life and Work in Japan

10:59 Remote Learning Experience

12:02 Navigating CPA Aspirations

16:03 Creating Educational Content

19:56 Becoming an Entrepreneur

21:12 Growth of Upkeeping

23:16 Client Base and Niche Exploration

24:58 Future Goals and Continuous Improvement

27:05 Navigating Burnout and Team Support

32:19 Creating Connections Through Conferences

37:43 The Importance of Vulnerability in Business

42:37 Long-Term Goals and Future Aspirations

44:40 Advice for Aspiring Entrepreneurs

Connect with Erin: LinkedIn personal - https://www.linkedin.com/in/erinpohan/

Meet Isaac!

In this episode of Protea Conversations, Zane speaks with Isaac Perdomo, founder of Opzer, about the transformative power of automation in accounting firms. They discuss the importance of reclaiming time, building client relationships, and overcoming the fear of technology.

Isaac shares his journey from engineering to accounting automation, offers insights from the Dominican Republic, and provides strategies for engaging with firms at various stages of automation.

The conversation also explores the role of AI, practical steps for implementing automation, and the importance of establishing a strong brand. Isaac emphasizes the need for proactive approaches and the importance of team building in achieving business goals.

Takeaways

- Automation is essential for reclaiming time in accounting firms.

- Aligning incentives with clients enhances relationships.

- Fear of technology often stems from the unknown.

- Simple automation tools like bank rules can yield significant benefits.

- Proactive strategies lead to better outcomes in business.

- Building a brand is more important than just running a business.

- Time management is crucial; automation can help free up time.

- Cultural insights can shape business perspectives and strategies.

- Engagement with clients should be tailored to their specific needs.

- Team building is critical for scaling and achieving business goals.

Sound Bites

"Bank rules are a simple win for automation."

"Build a brand, not just a business."

Chapters

00:00 The Importance of Automation in Accounting Firms

02:43 Navigating Client Resistance to Change

05:03 Isaac's Journey from Engineering to Accounting Automation

07:11Cultural Insights from the Dominican Republic

09:46 Deciding to Go Solo in Business

12:11 Engagement Strategies with Accounting Firms

14:59 Overcoming Fear of Technology in Accounting

17:31 Selecting the Right Tools for Accounting Firms

20:04 Identifying Time Wasters in Accounting Firms

21:16 Automating Data Entry for Efficiency and Accuracy

23:02 Exploring Automation Tools in Accounting

25:38 Bridging the Gap: Modernizing Accounting Practices

29:16 Automation 101: Simple Steps to Get Started

30:08 Streamlining Onboarding and Resource Management

30:41 Tailoring Automation Strategies for Different Firms

32:58 Goals and Growth: Building a Sustainable Business

38:00 Building a Brand Beyond Business

40:29 Personal Insights: Who is Isaac Perdomo?

Connect with Isaac: LinkedIn personal - https://www.linkedin.com/in/isaac-perdomo/?locale=en_US

Meet Mike!

In this conversation, Zane interviews Mike Sylvester, a seasoned CPA and partner at SPS CPA Group.

Mike shares his unconventional journey from being a reactor operator in the Navy to becoming a successful accountant and firm leader. He discusses the importance of community, effective marketing strategies, and the challenges of having difficult conversations with clients.

Mike emphasizes the need for accountants to adapt to industry changes, particularly with the rise of AI, and offers valuable advice for aspiring accountants.

Takeaways

- Mike Sylvester has over 20 years of experience in public accounting.

- He transitioned from a military career to accounting later in life.

- Building a successful firm requires strong leadership and systems.

- Difficult conversations with clients are essential for their success.

- Networking and community involvement are crucial for accountants.

- Raising prices annually is a key strategy for firm growth.

- AI will significantly impact the accounting industry in the coming years.

- Effective marketing is about being responsive and providing value.

- Accountants should be adaptable to generational shifts in the workforce.

Sound Bites

"I met my wife in the Navy."

"You need to develop contacts."

"You have to show up."

Chapters

00:00 Introduction to Mike Sylvester and His Journey

04:58 From Military to Accounting: A Unique Path

11:16 Transitioning Careers: The Move to Accounting

14:54 Building a Family Business: Working with a Spouse

20:01 Navigating Tough Conversations with Clients

24:59 Advice for Aspiring Accountants and Firm Owners

29:06 The Value of Honest Conversations in Communities

32:57 Creating a Collaborative Environment

36:36 Marketing Strategies for Accounting Firms

41:28 The Future of Accounting: AI and Industry Changes

44:46 Advice for Newcomers in the Accounting Field

Connect with Mike:

LinkedIn personal - https://www.linkedin.com/in/michael-sylvester-cpa-98b2035/

Where the magic happens - https://x.com/FortWayneCPA

Meet David!

In this conversation, Zane interviews David Barbieto, a managing partner at De La Hoz Perez, and Barbieto, who shares his journey in the accounting profession.

David discusses the importance of teamwork, personal growth, and the challenges he faced transitioning from a large firm to starting his own. He reflects on his early career, the cultural adaptations he made while studying in Miami, and how he found his passion in public accounting. The conversation also touches on the significance of embracing technology, the entrepreneurial mindset, and the impact of personal experiences on professional success.

Takeaways

- The secret to success is surrounding yourself with a great team.

- Growth is essential for everyone in an organization.

- Public accounting offers unparalleled exposure to various business models.

-Transitioning to a new firm can be daunting but rewarding.

- Building a firm requires a different mindset than just having a job.

- Embracing technology is crucial for the future of accounting.

- Personal experiences shape professional journeys significantly.

- Risk management is a key aspect of entrepreneurship.

- Success is not just about personal achievement but also about serving others.

- Celebrating small wins helps in recognizing progress.

Sound Bites

"The secret is your team."

"I wanted to do my own thing."

"You have to walk the talk."

Chapters

00:00 Introduction to David Barbeito

01:08 The Importance of Team and Growth

05:43 David's Journey into Accounting

13:43 Passion Meets Profession

18:01 Transitioning to Independence

24:54 Reflections on Success and Future Goals

26:07 The Pursuit of Goals and Growth Mindset

28:37 Heritage and Sacrifices: A Family Legacy

30:55 Navigating Change: The Leap into Entrepreneurship

35:45 Building a Firm: The Entrepreneurial Journey

41:01 Technology and Client Experience in Accounting

45:24 The Value of Public Accounting: A Career Perspective

46:10 Personal Insights: Life Beyond the Office

47:56 Rapid Fire Questions: Quick Insights

Connect with David:

LinkedIn personal - https://www.linkedin.com/in/barbeitocpa/

Meet Geni!

In this conversation, Geni Whitehouse shares her insights on the evolving role of accountants, emphasizing the importance of communication, understanding client needs, and adapting to cultural differences. She discusses her experiences in the wine industry and how they have shaped her approach to client interactions.

Geni highlights the need for accountants to focus on effectiveness over efficiency, the significance of training in communication skills, and the impact of technology on the profession. She also offers advice for new accountants and reflects on the future of the accounting industry.

Takeaways

- Communication is key in accounting to serve clients better.

- Understanding cultural differences can enhance client interactions.

- Lessons from the wine industry can inform better client service.

- Accountants need to focus on effectiveness, not just efficiency.

- Training in communication is essential for accountants.

- Bookkeepers play a crucial role in client success.

- Technology should be used to automate mundane tasks, freeing up time for valuable interactions.

- The future of accounting relies on adapting to client expectations and technology.

- Accountants should strive to make their clients feel smarter.

Sound Bites

"We need to automate the crappy stuff."

"We have to train them and educate them."

"Don't be afraid to ask dumb questions."

Chapters

00:00 Introduction to Geni Whitehouse and Her Mission

02:47 The Importance of Communication in Accounting

05:39 Cultural Differences and Client Interactions

08:40 Lessons from the Wine Industry

11:29 The Shift in Accounting Practices

14:18 The Role of Bookkeepers in Client Success

17:16 The Need for Effective Communication Skills

20:02 Training and Development in Accounting

23:04 Finding the Right People for Client Engagement

25:48 Empowering Accountants to Communicate Effectively

27:46 Rethinking People Management in Accounting

30:43 The Challenge of Attracting New Talent

32:45 Embracing Technology in Accounting

43:50 Advice for Aspiring Accountants and Personal Insights

Connect with Geni: LinkedIn personal - https://www.linkedin.com/in/evenanerd/

Meet Scott!

In this episode, Zane interviews Scott Fuller, founder of Virtus Accounting Solutions.

Scott shares his journey from a blue-collar upbringing to becoming a seasoned CPA, emphasizing the importance of aligning financial strategies with personal values. He discusses his experiences in public accounting, corporate finance, and ultimately starting his own firm to help purpose-driven businesses achieve financial clarity.

Scott highlights the significance of empathy in client relationships and the role of accounting in making a positive impact in the world. He discusses the importance of purpose-driven business models, emphasizing the alignment of values with clients. He shares insights on niching by values rather than industry, the challenges of entrepreneurship, and the significance of collaboration over competition.

Scott also provides personal anecdotes and advice for aspiring entrepreneurs, highlighting the importance of giving your best and maintaining business fundamentals.

Takeaways

- Scott's mission is to align financial strategies with values.

- He emphasizes the importance of empathy in client relationships.

- Scott's journey includes experiences in public accounting and corporate finance.

- He believes in the value of listening to clients' needs.

- Scott's firm focuses on providing financial clarity to clients.

- The name 'Virtus' reflects integrity and courage in business.

- Scott encourages younger accountants to experience both public and corporate accounting. We typically work with for-profit businesses that do good.

- Niching by values allows for a deeper connection with clients.

- It's important to focus on business fundamentals, even in purpose-driven companies.

- Your best effort is always good enough, regardless of outcomes.

- Collaboration in the accounting community is essential for growth.

- It's harder than it looks to run a business successfully.

- Values alignment with clients leads to better outcomes.

- Personal experiences shape our approach to business.

Sound Bites

"I think empathy is a really great word."

"Our job is to be the Yoda to help guide them."

"It's about doing good in the world."

"It's about the value behind it and the integrity."

"Your best is always good enough."

Chapters

00:00 Introduction to Scott Fuller and His Mission

04:44 Scott's Journey into Accounting

11:39 Transitioning to Corporate Accounting

19:57 Starting Virtus Accounting Solutions

30:20 Defining Purpose-Driven Businesses

33:48 Purpose-Driven Business Models

36:18 Client Examples and Values Alignment

39:59 Niching by Values vs. Industry

42:52 Business Fundamentals and Growth Strategies

47:29 Advice for Aspiring Entrepreneurs

51:10 Personal Insights and Rapid Fire Questions

Connect with Scott: LinkedIn personal - https://www.linkedin.com/in/scottfullercpa/