The Future of Accounting Starts Here: Student-led Conversations on Accounting ARC

Leaders in accounting share their best career advice, from embracing change to lifelong learning.

A fresh new perspective has arrived at Accounting ARC! This episode marks the launch of Student-led Conversations, a monthly feature where students take control of the podcast to explore their own curiosities about the accounting profession.

For the inaugural episode, Arpan Grewal, a high school junior and Indiana Business Professionals of America state officer, interviews Donny Shimamoto, CPA.CITP, CGMA; Liz Mason, CPA; and Byron Patrick, CPA.CITP, CGMA—three accounting professionals with unconventional career paths.

Breaking the Accounting Stereotype
Many students think of accounting as rigid and predictable, but the panelists are here to prove otherwise. Mason, CEO of High Rock Accounting, shares how her career has led her to unexpected places: “I’ve worked with casinos, brothels, alternative fuels—you name it! Accounting isn’t just about spreadsheets; it’s about understanding industries, solving problems, and making businesses work.”

Shimamoto, founder and managing director of IntrapriseTechKnowlogies LLC and founder and inspiration architect for the Center for Accounting Transformation, emphasizes accounting’s deeper role in shaping business success. “It’s not just numbers; it’s about trust, ethics, and helping companies navigate the future,” he says.

Lessons for the Next Generation
Grewal asks about the qualities of a successful accountant, and Shimamoto stresses ethics, lifelong learning, and service to the public. Patrick, CEO of VERIFYiQ and co-founder and educator for TB Academy, adds, “The best advice? Show up. Be curious. Ask questions—even the dumb ones.”

The conversation also highlights the impact of student organizations like FBLA, BPA, and DECA, with Patrick and Shimamoto crediting them as key influences in their careers.

Join the Movement
The new Agents of Transformation campaign, an initiative by the Center for Accounting Transformation, was also a focal point, showcasing how accountants can be seen as industry superheroes. The “initiative was designed to ignite excitement and curiosity about the world of accounting and finance and its transformative impact on the world.” Students interested in exploring accounting career options, educators leading the future of the profession, and accounting professionals eager to give back are encouraged to visit we.improvetheworld.net.

“We need young, ambitious professionals to help shape the future,” Mason says.

For students considering business careers, the episode highlighted the variety and excitement within the accounting profession—a dynamic and essential field with endless possibilities. Whether you love numbers, problem-solving, or working with people, there’s a place for you in the profession.

The inaugural episode of ARC Student-led Conversations is the first in a series. Students interested in hosting future episodes should email agents@improvetheworld.net.

Watch the full episode now.

Don’t miss an episode. Be sure to SUBSCRIBE below: