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Who Owns the CPA Firm of the Future?
Who should own CPA firms—CPAs themselves or outside investors? In this thought-provoking episode of Accounting ARC, hosts Liz Mason, Byron Patrick, and Donny Shimamoto dig into the history of CPA licensure, explore how private equity is reshaping firm structures, and debate what’s at stake for ethics, education, and public trust. From 1896 licensing laws to today’s alternative business structures, this conversation highlights why firm ownership still matters—and how the future of the CPA designation hangs in the balance. Listen in as the hosts tackle:
- Why firm ownership rules were created in the first place.
- The rise of private equity in accounting.
- The role of ethics and public trust in firm leadership.
- Apprenticeships and the next generation of CPAs.
- What’s at risk if CPA ownership loses its meaning.
Watch now to join the conversation shaping the future of the profession.
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More Podcasts From Our Accounting ARC Series
Episode: 16
When They're The Problem & When You're The Problem (Bad Boss Stories)
Own your growth: learn from bad bosses, fix miscommunication, take accountability, and turn tough moments into stronger leadership.
Episode: 15
Why Relationships Still Drive Career Success
In the accounting profession, technical excellence is expected. However, according to the latest episode of Accounting ARC, relationships — not just work product — often determine who grows, who leads, and who thrives.
In a candid and deeply personal conversation, Liz Mason, CPA, and Byron Patrick, CPA.CITP, explore how relationship-building shapes careers, creates opportunity, and provides stability in an unpredictable profession.
Episode: 14
The Real Problem with AI in Accounting
Push the profession forward: rethink workflows, embrace non‑linear career paths, and lead with tech‑driven judgment as accounting rapidly evolves.
Episode: 13
AI Can Fix Your Workflow—or Break It in Seconds
Take control of AI in accounting: test in sandboxes, set safeguards, manage permissions, and design workflows that use automation without losing oversight.
Episode: 12
AI Isn't Just for Big Firms
Uncover how small and mid-sized firms can lead in AI by prioritizing value, quality, experimentation, and client impact over efficiency, redefining success through adaptability and meaningful outcomes.
Episode: 11
The Sandwich Generation at Work
Examine how caregiving pressures—especially for the sandwich generation—are reshaping expectations around productivity, flexibility, and talent retention in the accounting profession.
Episode: 10
Built Fast. Sold Faster. Broken Later? The Truth About Accounting Tech
Explore how market forces shape accounting tech, from VC and MVP culture to legacy dominance, startup hurdles, slow adoption, and how emerging AI may push firms toward building their own tools.
Episode: 09
Continuity Planning - When “What If” Becomes Reality
Explore the vital importance of business continuity planning. Discover strategies to safeguard firms against unexpected challenges and harness continuity for new advisory opportunities!
Episode: 08
Recognize When You Need to Recharge Before You Burn Out
A fresh look at real recovery in accounting—spotting stress signals, restoring energy, and using both rest and activity to prevent burnout and sustain long‑term performance.
Episode: 07
Pricing the Story of a Business
Discover what truly drives business value. Baria Jaroudi reveals how expert judgment, real-world insight, and human perspective elevate valuations beyond the numbers. Tune in for a standout episode.
Episode: 06
Small Markets, Big Impact
Small‑town accounting takes the spotlight as this episode shows how rural communities create space for purpose‑driven careers, relationship‑centered service, and modern innovation—reframing small markets as places where impact and fulfillment thrive.
Episode: 05
Why High Achievers Need Stoicism
Stoic thinking meets busy‑season pressure in a conversation that unpacks how fear of failure, harsh self‑talk, and perfectionism shape well‑being—and how clearer thinking helps professionals stay resilient when the stakes rise.
Stay Updated with our Latest Podcasts
Four unique podcast series. One mission: to inspire, challenge, and empower the accounting profession. Each show brings fresh perspectives and powerful stories you won’t hear anywhere else—new episodes drop regularly, so don’t miss a moment.
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Can you talk politics without it blowing up? Top accounting leaders reveal how to have real, respectful conversations—even when you disagree—and why it actually strengthens teams and clients.
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