Noah Buxton, CEO of The Network Firm, returns to continue the conversation on the evolving world of digital assets. Blake and Noah examine how digital assets have expanded beyond cryptocurrencies to include tokenized real-world assets like real estate and commodities. Noah explains how blockchain technology could revolutionize asset trading and ownership verification and dives into "proof of reserves" reports, highlighting both the importance and current limitations of these reports in protecting investors. He also shares some insights into the growing opportunities for CPAs in the digital asset space, including how firms can develop expertise in blockchain attestation services.

Sponsor
MakersHub - https://earmarkcpe.promo/makershub

• (01:12) - Exploring the Digital Assets Space
• (04:05) - Tokenization of Real-World Assets
• (06:39) - Benefits and Challenges of Tokenization
• (12:55) - Real-World Examples and Case Studies
• (19:26) - The Role of CPA Firms in Digital Assets
• (22:20) - Regulatory Landscape and Proof of Reserves
• (29:54) - Explaining Proof of Reserves
• (34:30) - Comparing Proof of Reserves and Traditional Audits
• (38:21) - The Importance of Proof of Reserves
• (44:30) - Regulatory Landscape and Proof of Reserves
• (49:16) - Opportunities for CPAs in Crypto Auditing
• (52:34) - Introducing Ledger Lens for CPAs
• (54:57) - Conclusion and Contact Information

Download the Earmark CPE App

Apple: https://apps.apple.com/us/app/earmark-cpe/id1562599728

Android: https://play.google.com/store/apps/details?id=com.earmarkcpe.app

Connect with Our Guest, Noah Buxton

LinkedIn: http://linkedin.com/in/noahbuxton

Learn more about The Network Firm

Website: https://www.thenetworkfirm.com/about-us

Connect with Blake Oliver, CPA

LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/blaketoliver
Twitter: https://twitter.com/blaketoliver/

Blake challenges guest Noah D. Buxton, Co-Founder and CEO of The Network Firm, to make the case for Bitcoin’s lasting value. They explore the nature of money, the complexities of digital scarcity, the inevitability of tokenized real-world assets, and the forces driving institutional interest in cryptocurrency. This candid exchange offers insights into what truly underpins Bitcoin’s worth, how regulators and investors view it, and why blockchain technology is poised to reshape finance as we know it. Whether you’re a skeptic or believer, this discussion reveals the evolving landscape of digital assets.

(Originally recorded on December 12, 2024, on Earmark Webinars+)

Sponsor
MakersHub - https://earmarkcpe.promo/makershub

• (00:52) - Bitcoin's Current Market Status
• (02:09) - Understanding Bitcoin's Value
• (05:26) - The Functions and Qualities of Money
• (06:39) - Bitcoin as a Store of Value
• (22:37) - Bitcoin vs. Other Cryptocurrencies
• (30:19) - Debating Bitcoin's True Value
• (31:21) - Real Estate vs. Bitcoin
• (31:48) - The Greater Fool Theory
• (33:18) - Bitcoin's Use Cases and Misconceptions
• (34:04) - Government Involvement in Bitcoin
• (38:27) - Decentralization and Wealth Distribution
• (43:57) - The Future of Digital Assets
• (50:56) - Conclusion and Future Discussions

Download the Earmark CPE App

Apple: https://apps.apple.com/us/app/earmark-cpe/id1562599728

Android: https://play.google.com/store/apps/details?id=com.earmarkcpe.app

Connect with Our Guest, Noah Buxton

LinkedIn: http://linkedin.com/in/noahbuxton

Learn more about The Network Firm

Website: https://www.thenetworkfirm.com/about-us

Connect with Blake Oliver, CPA

LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/blaketoliver
Twitter: https://twitter.com/blaketoliver/

Join Blake Oliver as he interviews Yuri Kapilovich, a CPA who's cracked the code on balancing work and life in accounting. Discover how Yuri maintains a thriving practice while working just 10-15 hours per week outside tax season and a maximum of 40 hours during crunch time. Learn actionable strategies for setting the right fees, optimizing workflows, and prioritizing fun and family without sacrificing success. Yuri will share his insights on transforming accounting from a grueling profession into an enjoyable and rewarding career. This webinar will equip you with practical tools to revolutionize your work-life balance and rediscover the joy in accounting. Don’t miss this opportunity to make your career more fulfilling and efficient!

(Originally recorded on December 4, 2024, on Earmark Webinars+)

Sponsor
MakersHub - https://earmarkcpe.promo/makershub

• (00:00) - Planning Babies Around Tax Season
• (01:11) - Introducing Yuri Kapilovich, The Fun CPA
• (03:07) - Yuri's Journey Through Multiple Firms
• (03:32) - The Reality of Billable Hours
• (09:27) - Leaving Public Accounting to Start a Firm
• (12:12) - Overcoming Fear and Building a Practice
• (17:20) - The Fun CPA Brand and Networking
• (24:50) - Selecting the Right Clients for a Lifestyle Firm
• (32:27) - Realistic Client Time Management
• (33:28) - Building a High-Value Client Base
• (34:22) - Setting and Communicating Fees
• (35:23) - The Value of Selective Clientele
• (40:28) - Quarterly and Monthly Packages
• (43:27) - Solo Practice vs. Building a Team
• (47:19) - Financial Transparency and Career Choices
• (52:11) - The True Cost of High Salaries
• (59:31) - Navigating the Accounting Profession
• (01:02:19) - Final Thoughts and Resources

Download the Earmark CPE App

Apple: https://apps.apple.com/us/app/earmark-cpe/id1562599728

Android: https://play.google.com/store/apps/details?id=com.earmarkcpe.app

Connect with Our Guest, Yuri Kapilovich
LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/ykapilovich/

Learn more about The Fun CPA
https://www.thefuncpa.co/

Connect with Blake Oliver, CPA
LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/blaketoliver
Twitter: https://twitter.com/blaketoliver/

Erica Goode, CPA, reveals how she built a thriving $200K accounting firm working just 15 hours a week. Discover the power of niching, efficient processes, and work-life balance in this candid discussion. Erica will share her journey from corporate burnout to entrepreneurial success, offering practical insights on pricing strategies, time management, and building authority in your niche. Whether you're considering starting your own firm or optimizing your existing practice, this webinar will inspire and equip you to reimagine what's possible in your accounting career.

(Originally recorded on October 16, 2024, on Earmark Webinars+)

Sponsor
ShareFile - https://earmarkcpe.promo/sharefile

• (02:39) - Welcome Erica to the Show
• (04:55) - Transition from Corporate to Entrepreneurship
• (06:28) - Life in Idaho and Outdoor Activities
• (08:06) - Burnout and Decision to Leave Corporate
• (11:12) - Starting the Accounting Firm
• (19:20) - Client Growth and Service Tiers
• (30:23) - Systematizing CFO Services
• (32:37) - Client Report Preparation and Meetings
• (33:25) - Listener Question: Monthly Meeting Agenda
• (35:03) - Forecasting and Cash Flow Discussions
• (37:46) - The Value of Monthly Meetings
• (38:55) - Balancing Work and Client Relationships
• (39:51) - Handling Client Taxes and Referrals
• (41:27) - Marketing and Client Acquisition
• (44:34) - Podcasting and Providing Free Advice
• (48:39) - Scaling a Solo Practice
• (50:34) - Balancing Work and Personal Life
• (59:41) - Final Thoughts and Resources

Download the Earmark CPE App

Apple: https://apps.apple.com/us/app/earmark-cpe/id1562599728

Android: https://play.google.com/store/apps/details?id=com.earmarkcpe.app

Connect with Our Guest, Erica Goode

LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/erica-goode-cpa-00205616/

Connect with Blake Oliver, CPA

LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/blaketoliver
Twitter: https://twitter.com/blaketoliver/

Join Ryan Spohn, CFO of Sikich, and host Blake Oliver to explore how modern CPA firms are revolutionizing the industry by abandoning the traditional partnership model. Discover innovative strategies for attracting and retaining top talent, including Sikich's alternative practice structure and novel performance metrics. Learn how firms shift from "total hours worked" to holistic evaluations of effectiveness, client satisfaction, and quality. We'll also discuss service diversification, internal mobility, and technology investments. Plus, get insights on Sikich's recent $250M Bain Capital investment. Don't miss this opportunity to understand the future of accounting firms!

(Originally recorded on September 26, 2024, on Earmark Webinars+)

Sponsor
ShareFile - https://earmarkcpe.promo/sharefile

• (00:39) - Meet Ryan Spohn, CFO of Sikich
• (01:46) - Sikich's Alternative Practice Structure
• (02:58) - Private Equity Investment from Bain Capital
• (03:57) - Strategies for Attracting and Retaining Top Talent
• (08:46) - Employee Wellness and Work-Life Integration
• (11:18) - Innovative Billing and Client Engagement
• (21:20) - Modernizing ERP and Technology Stack
• (27:08) - Ryan Non-Traditional Background
• (29:28) - The Importance of Understanding the Work
• (30:39) - Expertise and Team Composition
• (31:02) - Transition to Public Accounting
• (32:34) - Equity and Compensation Challenges
• (34:00) - Innovative Equity Solutions at Sikich
• (37:17) - Reinvesting in the Firm
• (46:07) - Internal Mobility at Sikich
• (48:40) - The Future of Accounting with AI
• (54:41) - Conclusion and Final Thoughts

Download the Earmark CPE App

Apple: https://apps.apple.com/us/app/earmark-cpe/id1562599728

Android: https://play.google.com/store/apps/details?id=com.earmarkcpe.app

Connect with Our Guest, Ryan Spohn

LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/ryan-spohn-9b21431/

Connect with Blake Oliver, CPA

LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/blaketoliver
Twitter: https://twitter.com/blaketoliver/

Join Blake Oliver for an interview with Eric Azevedo, a California CPA who has set up his own international tax practice in rural Japan. Discover how Eric leveraged his Japanese language skills to break into Tokyo's accounting scene and the unique challenges he faced. We'll delve into the complexities of international taxation, U.S. expat issues, and strategies for effective cross-border tax preparation. Whether you're planning an international move or interested in global accounting, gain valuable insights from Eric's journey and learn how to bridge cultures in the world of tax. Don’t miss this opportunity to enhance your international tax expertise!

(Originally recorded on September 16, 2024, on Earmark Webinars+)

Sponsor
ShareFile - https://earmarkcpe.promo/sharefile

• (01:19) - Eric's Journey from Philosophy to Accounting
• (03:04) - Life and Career in Japan
• (04:19) - Transitioning Back to the US and Becoming a CPA
• (05:56) - Experiences in the California Community College System
• (07:49) - Living in Japan: City vs Countryside
• (10:44) - Starting an Accounting Career in Japan
• (17:32) - Cultural Adjustments and Work-Life Balance
• (27:00) - Working with Expats and Tax Complexities
• (31:41) - Understanding Tax Penalties for Expats
• (32:48) - Streamline Procedures for Tax Compliance
• (33:59) - Navigating the Japanese Tax System
• (37:37) - Remote Work and Connectivity in Japan
• (40:56) - Building a Home in Rural Japan
• (43:19) - Managing a Growing Client Base
• (53:03) - Cultural Nuances in International Accounting
• (55:18) - Travel Tips and Destinations in Japan
• (57:42) - Conclusion and Contact Information

Download the Earmark CPE App

Apple: https://apps.apple.com/us/app/earmark-cpe/id1562599728

Android: https://play.google.com/store/apps/details?id=com.earmarkcpe.app

Connect with Our Guest, Eric Azevedo

LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/ericazevedo

Connect with Blake Oliver, CPA

LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/blaketoliver
Twitter: https://twitter.com/blaketoliver/

Join Blake Oliver as he interviews Kyle Walters, CPA firm partner and wealth manager at Atlas Wealth Advisors. Despite not being a CPA himself, Kyle brings a fresh perspective to the accounting world. We'll explore:

- The benefits of integrating wealth management and accounting services
- How non-traditional backgrounds can lead to innovative approaches
- Candid insights into client feedback that CPAs rarely hear
- Strategies for delivering the integrated advice clients truly want

(Originally recorded on August 1, 2024, on Earmark Webinars+)

Sponsor
MakersHub - https://earmarkcpe.promo/makershub

• (01:05) - Kyle's Journey into Wealth Management and CPA Integration
• (02:46) - Building a CPA Firm from Scratch
• (05:05) - Client-Centric Approach and the Red Chair Concept
• (06:28) - Differences Between Wealth Management and Traditional CPA Firms
• (10:15) - Challenges and Benefits of Integrated Services
• (15:11) - Improving Client Relationships and Communication
• (30:16) - Scheduling Work to Improve Efficiency
• (35:48) - Client Communication Challenges & Strategies
• (38:21) - Logistical Issues and Solutions
• (41:28) - The Role of CPAs and Financial Advisors
• (47:40) - Integrated Financial Advice
• (50:49) - Client Engagement and Meeting Schedules
• (53:46) - The Future of Accounting and Financial Advice
• (55:41) - Getting Started in Wealth Management
• (01:00:33) - The Impact of AI on Tax Preparation
• (01:01:45) - Conclusion and Upcoming Events

Download the Earmark CPE App

Apple: https://apps.apple.com/us/app/earmark-cpe/id1562599728

Android: https://play.google.com/store/apps/details?id=com.earmarkcpe.app

Connect with Our Guest, Kyle Walters
LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/kyledwalters

Connect with Blake Oliver, CPA

LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/blaketoliver
Twitter: https://twitter.com/blaketoliver/

Join Blake Oliver for a conversation with Lynnette Oss Connell and Craig Connell as they share their real-life journey of selling their Client Accounting Services (CAS) firm to a larger regional CPA firm. This webinar will explore the complexities and challenges of transitioning a boutique practice into a larger organization. Gain valuable insights on preparing for a sale, negotiating terms, and ensuring a smooth transition for your clients and team. Whether you're considering selling your firm now or in the future, this session offers actionable strategies and expert advice to help you navigate the process successfully.

(Originally recorded on August 27, 2024, on Earmark Webinars+)

Sponsor
MakersHub - https://earmarkcpe.promo/makershub

• (01:09) - Founding ClickPNW: Lynette and Craig's Journey
• (02:50) - Client Services and Growth Strategies
• (05:26) - Challenges and Successes in Client Management
• (09:28) - Deciding to Sell: Personal and Professional Factors
• (18:09) - Finding the Right Buyer: The Sweeney Conrad Story
• (31:39) - Transitioning to a New Firm
• (32:16) - Employee and Client Considerations and Unexpected Challenges
• (33:56) - Transitioning Staff and Clients
• (36:50) - Client Relationships and Retention
• (39:15) - Administrative Challenges
• (44:30) - Lessons Learned and Advice
• (55:15) - Future Plans and Reflections
• (59:41) - Conclusion and CPE Information

Download the Earmark CPE App

Apple: https://apps.apple.com/us/app/earmark-cpe/id1562599728

Android: https://play.google.com/store/apps/details?id=com.earmarkcpe.app

Connect with Our Guests:

Lynnette Oss Connell
LinkedIn: http://linkedin.com/in/lynnette-oss-connell-cpa

Craig Connell
LinkedIn: http://www.linkedin.com/in/craigconnellcpa

Connect with Blake Oliver, CPA

LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/blaketoliver
Twitter: https://twitter.com/blaketoliver/