Speaking Up, Leveling Up: Why Travel and Public Speaking Are Changing the Face of Accounting

Today’s accounting leaders are turning travel and talk into transformative impact.

In a recent episode of the Accounting ARC podcast, Donny Shimamoto, CPA.CITP, CGMA, and Liz Mason, CPA, unpack the evolving role of speaking engagements and travel in the accounting profession. Their stories highlight how accountants are stepping beyond spreadsheets to build influence, spark innovation, and create community across cities—and even continents.

From Classroom to Conference Circuit
Mason, CEO of High Rock Accounting, and Shimamoto, founder and managing director of IntrapriseTechKnowlogies LLC and founder and inspiration architect for the Center for Accounting Transformation, reflect on how their early careers were rooted in local training and compliance sessions. But soon, CPE conferences, state society meetings, and AICPA events opened new doors. “I never imagined I’d travel to 35 states—and internationally—to speak about accounting,” Shimamoto shares.

Mason’s path took a different route, as she partnered with tech companies, keynoting major events and leading workshops for professionals across client accounting services (CAS). “It’s about sharing ideas, building relationships, and helping others see what’s possible,” she explains.

Influencer or Innovator?
While both guests have been labeled “influencers,” they push back on the term. “We’re not here to sell a product,” Shimamoto says. “We’re here to improve the profession and the world it touches.” That mission often requires networking with tech developers, connecting peers to problem-solvers, and using speaking as a way to amplify important conversations.

Building a Professional Family
What may look like nonstop travel and presentations is often deeply personal. Both Mason and Shimamoto describe building long-term relationships with fellow speakers, tech leaders, and firm owners—many of whom become genuine friends. “Whether it’s dinner in Denver or a barbecue in Sarasota, these are the moments where change really begins,” says Mason.

Not Just for Extroverts
Contrary to stereotypes, you don’t need to be an extrovert to succeed on stage. “Find your voice, be yourself, and deliver your message in a way that resonates,” Shimamoto advises. For Mason, public speaking is about efficiently reaching the people who want to dive deep—not about surface-level small talk.

Make the Most of Every Mile
“Don’t promise client deliverables during conference weeks,” Mason warns. “You need to be present.” Conferences are about more than checking off CPE credits—they’re about new ideas, deep relationships, and unforgettable experiences that can shape your entire career.

Watch the full episode now.