Rising to the Stage: Transforming Accounting Knowledge into Paid Keynotes

Stories of Authenticity, Preparation, and Impactful Engagements

Public speaking has become a career-defining skill for many in the accounting profession. In a recent episode of Accounting ARC, hosts Liz Mason, CPA; Byron Patrick, CPA.CITP, CGMA; and Donny Shimamoto, CPA.CITP, CGMA; discuss the journey from speaking at conferences for free to securing paid engagements.

For these professionals, paid engagements weren’t always the norm. Shimamoto, Mason, and Patrick each started with free speaking opportunities, often using these events as a platform to network and share knowledge. Over time, as their skills developed, they realized that their insights had value worth compensating. “There’s a shift in how you prepare when it’s a paid gig,” notes Patrick, CEO of VERIFYiQ and vice president of client success at The B3 Method Institute®, emphasizing the heightened responsibility that comes with a paycheck.

Each speaker shares their approach to preparing for events. Mason, CEO and founder of High Rock Accounting, emphasizes the value of thorough preparation, explaining, “If I don’t over-prepare, I feel like I can’t deliver confidently.” By balancing deep research with personal anecdotes, Mason brings authenticity to her presentations, aiming to connect with audiences on a personal level.

Dealing with Imposter Syndrome
The podcast touched on the common struggle of imposter syndrome. Despite years of experience, all three speakers admit to questioning their performances. “We’re our own worst critics,” says Shimamoto, founder and managing director of IntrapriseTechKnowlogies LLC and founder and inspiration architect for the Center for Accounting Transformation, adding that feedback from attendees often serves as a reassuring reminder that their insights are valuable.

Constructive Feedback and Growth
Receiving feedback is essential but filtering it is critical. While constructive criticism from trusted sources is valuable, speakers often encounter unhelpful feedback. Mason shares an amusing example: “I got a one-star review that said, ‘She spoke too much.’” The speakers agree that learning to focus on constructive feedback is a major factor in improving delivery, but learning to filter unhelpful comments does take time.

Transitioning to paid speaking engagements in accounting requires commitment, authenticity, and a willingness to push past personal limitations. For accounting professionals interested in speaking, Shimamoto, Mason, and Patrick’s experiences offer a roadmap for making an impact and finding fulfillment in sharing knowledge.

Check out the latest episode of the Accounting ARC Podcast on the Center’s YouTube channel. 

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