Journal of Accountancy Podcast

Jaksot

• 
  What boards don't know can hurt them 10.09.2026 19min

  Boards need more than reports to provide effective fraud risk oversight; they need structures that help them determine whether risk management programs work. Jonathan Marks, CPA/CFF/CITP, CGMA, CFE, the author of the most recent FVS Eye on Fraud report, explains more about how boards should be involved — and how they shouldn't — when it comes to oversight of fraud risk. Key points of the discussion include how information that reaches the board is often "scrubbed" and why the right questions can help directors stay in the loop on fraud risk. Editor's note: The summer FVS Eye on Fraud report is available for download at the link above. It becomes exclusive to FVS Section members after Oct. 9. What you'll learn from this episode: Why effective fraud risk oversight is a structural discipline rather than a reporting exercise. How boards can determine whether a fraud risk management program works in practice without stepping into management's role. Why feedback loops are essential to ensuring that directors receive and understand the right information. An explanation of the Candor Chain and the ways critical information can be softened, altered, or lost before reaching the board. How the COSO Fraud Risk Management Guide can help boards evaluate risks, controls, and the human factors behind fraud.
• 
  Looking to 2027: Economic sentiment, hiring plans, inflation concerns 03.09.2026 7min

  Overall, those who are pessimistic about the U.S. economy outnumber those who are optimistic this quarter. But, optimism rose slightly compared with the previous quarter, according to a quarterly survey of CPA decision-makers. In this episode of the JofA podcast, Ken Witt, CPA, CGMA, associate director–Management Accounting Research & Development for the AICPA and CIMA, breaks down sentiment about the domestic economy, the global economy, and respondents' companies. Witt also touches on top challenges and the CPA leaders' views on hiring, projected revenue growth, and spending plans for the coming 12 months. What you'll learn from this episode: The increase in optimism related to the domestic and global economies. The decrease in own-company optimism from the previous quarter. The familiar obstacle for CPA decision-makers that returned to No. 1 on the list of challenges. Projected revenue and profit growth in the coming 12 months. Projected spending on IT, training, and other capital expenditures. A farewell to the survey's longtime guru.
• 
  Finance's chemistry lesson: The guardian-to-catalyst transformation 27.08.2026 12min

  Artificial intelligence is accelerating the transformation of the finance function in ways that go beyond automation of existing processes. Gartner senior director Mallory Bulman explains how finance teams can help organizations move faster, make better decisions, and prepare for 2030 and beyond. The conversation explores digital talent, enterprise simulations, product management techniques, and what Bulman heard from attendees at the Future of Finance Summit about contending with volatility and deciding whether to be "AI-forward" or "AI-cautious." What you'll learn from this episode: The number of CFOs that Bulman speaks with each week, and the universal truths she hears in those calls. What an OODA loop is and why, in Bulman's words, the "observe" part of that acronym will be getting shorter. A key theme of a Gartner finance presentation and its tie-in with one of Bulman's sons' science classes. How a product management mindset and self-service tools can help finance teams effectively deliver decision-ready information. Bulman's takeaways from the Future of Finance Summit earlier in August.
• 
  An innovative state society CEO and her view of accounting's future 20.08.2026 20min

  Rebekah Olson, CPA, CEO of the Maryland Association of CPAs, returned to the Journal of Accountancy podcast for the first time since 2019 to discuss how community, collaboration, and relationships can strengthen the accounting profession. She shared insights into efforts to address recruiting and retention challenges, the role of professional associations in creating value for members, and an update on CPA licensure. Olson also explained the thinking behind the MACPA's Beyond the Bottom Line YouTube series and why engagement remains critical for the profession's future. What you'll learn from this episode: Olson's "best part of the accounting profession" and how it led her state association to start a YouTube series. Why Olson believes relationships and community are among the profession's greatest strengths. What she learned from Tom Hood. How Maryland's CPA licensure changes fit into broader efforts across the profession. What associations can do to create more value and engagement for members. Why positive news about accounting enrollment, in Olson's mind, doesn't eliminate the need for continued workforce development efforts.
• 
  AI gets the headlines, but it's not the whole story for finance leaders 13.08.2026 10min

  For the 500th episode of the Journal of Accountancy podcast, the show went on the road to the Future of Finance Summit. The conversation with the AICPA's Tom Hood, CPA/CITP, CGMA, executive vice president–Business Growth and Engagement, focuses on how finance leaders are moving beyond exploration of artificial intelligence and into active piloting and scaling. Hood discussed priorities other than AI for finance leaders, who gathered last week in National Harbor, Md. Hood also looked back on the growth of the Future of Finance community, explaining how the "wisdom of the crowd" is one of the event's big draws. What you'll learn from this episode: A brief look back at the start of the JofA podcast, which has published 500 episodes. What live polling at last week's Future of Finance Summit revealed about the pace of AI adoption in corporate finance functions. Senior finance leaders' top issues in 2026 other than AI. How finance leaders are trying to balance growth initiatives with continued pressure to control costs. Why Hood says the Future of Finance community is helping leaders learn faster through case studies, peer collaboration, and shared best practices. A look ahead to the 2027 Future of Finance Summit.
• 
  Build trust with a stewardship mindset 06.08.2026 20min

  Eric R. Alexander, CPA, president of advisory service company Six Arrows Consulting, discusses the lessons he's learned throughout his career in finance and what being a finance leader means for him, and other insights from his upcoming book, Stewardship Leadership for Stinkin' Accountants: Serving as the CFO. He shares key strategies for developing as a stewardship leader, including how he holds himself accountable, how he views his role as a trusted adviser for organizations, and the steps he has taken to improve in the relational and people aspects of the finance function. "I've been most effective in my work when I've functioned as a steward, meaning I understood things had been entrusted to me to be responsible for," he said. "I was accountable to people, and fundamentally, it was not all about me." Editor's note: This episode was originally on the FM podcast. What you'll learn from this episode: Why Alexander says the CFO role is not about you as a finance leader. Key elements of stewardship leadership. How to hold yourself accountable as a finance professional. Why getting into the finer details can complicate decision-making. What it means to own your results. Tips for enhancing people and soft skills.
• 
  Why planning to work longer may be the better path to retirement 30.07.2026 19min

  People are living longer, and that reality may call for a different approach to retirement planning. In this episode of the Journal of Accountancy podcast, Kelley Long, CPA/PFS, shares why she believes working longer can be a positive choice, how mini-retirements and career flexibility fit into that vision, and what those ideas mean for personal financial planning.  In the last of the JofA's summer episodes recorded at ENGAGE, Long reflects on discussions from the conference, including lessons for younger professionals and the growing interest in designing a career that supports a balanced life. In April, Long previewed one of her ENGAGE sessions on the JofA podcast and wrote about planning for mini-retirements. What you'll learn from this episode: Why Long believes many professionals should plan to work longer and why that doesn't have to be a negative outcome. How mini-retirements and sabbaticals can fit into a long-term career and financial plan. Ways to approach conversations with employers about career flexibility and extended time away from work. How shifting from a retirement-focused mindset to a lifestyle-focused mindset can influence financial decisions throughout life. How first-time ENGAGE attendees can navigate multiple aspects of the conference — from its size, learning tracks, and networking opportunities to its indoor/outdoor temperature changes. Long's review of several ENGAGE keynote sessions.
• 
  Telling a better CPA story, one T-shirt and LinkedIn post at a time 23.07.2026 18min

  Calvin Harris, CPA, the CEO of the New York State Society of CPAs, returned to the JofA podcast to discuss why storytelling, humor, and personal connection are essential to the profession's future. In an episode recorded in June at ENGAGE, Harris shared how everything from T-shirt jokes and LinkedIn posts to podcast interviews can help strengthen accounting's relevance and keep students and professionals engaged. He also discussed progress on the talent pipeline, lessons from hosting his state society's podcast, and the value of bringing accountants together through conferences and networking. What you'll learn from this episode: Why Harris wore a Deadpool-themed shirt the day of the episode's recording. How selfies featuring his accounting-themed T-shirts began showing up on LinkedIn, and how those posts have sparked conversations about the profession. His insights on the accounting talent pipeline opportunities and trends in CPA licensure pathways. The unexpected lessons Harris has learned from hosting the New York State Society of CPAs' podcast. How conferences in general, particularly ENGAGE, provide a "chance to connect." How telling better stories about CPA career paths can grow the profession's relevance.
• 
  Awkward silence is OK — and other networking secrets 16.07.2026 12min

  Networking can feel uncomfortable for many of us, but meaningful connections often start with simple conversations and strong listening skills. Alex Romero, CPA, CGMA, the AICPA's director–CPA Pipeline, shares practical advice for building professional relationships at conferences and beyond, including the reminder that pauses are acceptable. Romero also highlights ways to stay present in conversations and one activity that she has found to be a networking boost. She also discusses the latest outlook for accounting talent, accounting enrollment trends, and why the CPA credential remains a "great differentiator." Other resources mentioned in the conversation include an earlier podcast episode from ENGAGE with the AICPA's Carl Mayes, CPA; the website ThisWayToCPA.com, with numerous resources for students and educators; and information on the July 24 Faculty Hour Series webcast, which includes Romero as a scheduled speaker. What you'll learn from this episode: The ways accounting professionals who are averse to networking can become effective at building relationships at conferences and other events. How active listening helps create deeper professional connections. Romero's practical conversation starters and techniques. What recent accounting enrollment data suggests about the CPA talent pipeline.
• 
  From estate planning to AI: Managing CPA liability 09.07.2026 9min

  Sarah Ference, CPA, a risk control director at CNA, returned to the Journal of Accountancy podcast to discuss recent topics of the JofA's Professional Liability Spotlight column. The conversation covers three timely issues facing CPA firms: the Great Wealth Transfer, ethical decision-making when clients push boundaries, and the need for practical AI policies. The conversation also reflects on AICPA ENGAGE and the value of staying connected to developments in the profession. The articles discussed in the episode: May: "Managing CPA Liability in the Great Wealth Transfer." June: "Making the Right Choice When No One Is Watching." July: "Drafting an AI Policy That Actually Works." What you'll learn from this episode: Why the Great Wealth Transfer is creating liability risks for CPAs in estate planning, tax filings, and other services. How CPAs can respond when clients want to skirt rules because they perceive regulatory oversight or enforcement to be weakening. Why accounting firms need an AI policy and key considerations when establishing guidelines for AI use in practice. Ference's takeaways from AICPA ENGAGE last month.
• 
  The AICPA's CEO on trust, AI, and the profession's future 02.07.2026 19min

  AICPA President and CEO Mark Koziel, CPA, CGMA, reflects on his first 18 months in the role, discussing initiatives such as CPA Trust, the return of the print Journal of Accountancy, and the profession's ongoing advocacy efforts. Speaking while at AICPA ENGAGE in Las Vegas, Koziel also shares insights on AI, upskilling, tax transformation, licensure mobility, and the role CPAs can play in a rapidly changing business environment.  Koziel explains why he remains optimistic about the profession's future despite ongoing disruption and uncertainty. He also tells the story of being asked long ago for an autograph. What you'll learn from this episode: Why the CPA Trust campaign launched and particulars about the strategy for a commercial about the initiative. What Koziel meant when he said, "We are in the verification business." What member feedback revealed about the need for upskilling and how the Profession Ready Initiative aims to address skills gaps. Why Koziel considers it valuable for members to have the Journal of Accountancy return to printed issues. How AI could reshape tax compliance work and expand opportunities for advisory services. Why he says, "Train's left the station," when asked about changes in CPA licensure pathways. Koziel's assertion that CPAs will continue to thrive amid technological disruption by serving as the "human in the lead."
• 
  Midyear advocacy update: STEM, BOI, taxes and licensure 25.06.2026 14min

  What advocacy issues should CPAs be watching with 2026 at its midpoint? The latest Journal of Accountancy podcast episode covers numerous topics with Mark Peterson, executive vice president–Advocacy for the Association of International Certified Professional Accountants, representing AICPA and CIMA. Peterson details efforts to include accounting in STEM education initiatives, what the future might hold for beneficial ownership information reporting requirements, and the profession's role in seeking guidance related to federal tax guidance. Peterson, speaking from AICPA ENGAGE earlier this month, also explains the vital role of state societies' advocacy efforts. He touches on CPA licensure, the Fiscal State of the Nation Act, tariffs, and other policy developments that affect practitioners and their clients. Also, read Peterson's midyear summary in column form. What you'll learn from this episode: Why the AICPA continues to push for accounting to be included in STEM education initiatives, and what progress advocates are making on Capitol Hill. What the future may hold for beneficial ownership information requirements after the pause in BOI reporting enforcement. The critical role that state CPA societies play in licensure modernization and advocacy efforts. Peterson's perspective on how the AICPA is helping to get more clarity around implementation of major federal tax legislation. Why he says that implementation of the massive tax bill has been "lumpy." Peterson's reflection on the rise of Town Hall as a way to quickly get information and perspective to members. Ongoing and emerging policy issues — including tariffs, global mobility, and anti-money laundering efforts — that could affect the profession in the months ahead.
• 
  Why mindset may matter more than technology adoption 18.06.2026 17min

  Recorded live at AICPA ENGAGE 2026, this episode of the JofA podcast explores the reasons that mindset and leadership may be even more important than technology adoption as finance and accounting professionals navigate an era of nonstop transformation. Joel Morris, a vice president at Wolters Kluwer, and Tom Hood, CPA/CITP, CGMA, executive vice president–Business Growth & Engagement at the AICPA, discuss what separates future-ready organizations from those struggling to keep pace, focuses on AI, workforce development, and strategic thinking. Morris and Hood also explore the human skills, trust, and risk management practices needed to help organizations adapt, innovate, and remain relevant in a rapidly changing profession. One key component mentioned in the conversation is the Rise2040 report and initiative. What you'll learn from this episode: How each speaker defines the "perpetual transformation state." Why Hood says mindset—not technology—may be the biggest factor in future readiness. How Morris distinguishes organizations who are getting "ahead of the wave" from those that say they're too busy to devote time to thinking about growth methodologies. What Morris and Hood see as the biggest barriers to successful AI adoption. The reasons that human skills are becoming more important, not less, in an AI-powered profession. How trust can help accountants and finance professionals navigate ongoing transformation and why Morris calls trust "that through-line into everything that you do."
• 
  How retaliation risk complicates fraud investigations 16.06.2026 15min

  Retaliation — actual or perceived — can make fraud investigations more complex and less effective.   In this episode of the Journal of Accountancy podcast, Fred Kohm, CPA/CFF, a partner at Grant Thornton, summarizes insights from the latest FVS Eye on Fraud report and explains how nuanced workplace dynamics can affect whistleblower cases. Kohm shares examples of subtle retaliation and explains how forensic accountants, auditors, and other professionals can recognize retaliation risks and strengthen investigative practices.  "Whether you are a forensic accountant, an auditor, or perhaps a CPA in another role …, be aware that retaliation is real," Kohm said. Editor's note: The spring 2026 FVS Eye on Fraud report is available for download at the link above. It becomes exclusive to FVS Section members after July 10. What you'll learn from this episode: Defining "retaliation" in the context of a whistleblower complaint and investigation. Why fear of retaliation can limit the information whistleblowers share. How retaliation can show up in subtle ways, from exclusion to heightened scrutiny. What makes retaliation a complex challenge for forensic accountants gathering evidence. The strategies that Kohm recommends to help organizations reduce retaliation risk. Why awareness and objectivity are critical when evaluating fraud allegations.
• 
  The power of active listening in addressing the CPA skills gap 10.06.2026 13min

  Recorded at ENGAGE in Las Vegas, this episode of the JofA podcast features Carl Mayes, CPA, the AICPA's vice president–Ethics & Firm Quality, discussing the Profession Ready Initiative and the evolving skills employers expect from current and aspiring CPAs.  Mayes shares insights from discussions with more than 1,000 members, including concerns about foundational accounting skills, communication abilities, and maintaining professional skepticism in an AI-driven environment.  Mayes, who was also on the podcast in February, reflects in this episode on the profession's responsibility to prepare the next generation of CPAs and the energizing role events such as ENGAGE play in shaping new ideas across the profession. One other resource related to the conversation: the monthly A&A Focus series. What you'll learn from this episode: An early-career lesson for Mayes that underscored CPAs serving as "gatekeepers for the capital markets." What early stages of the Profession Ready Initiative have unearthed after conversations with more than 1,000 accounting professionals. Why communication skills, critical thinking, and skepticism are becoming more important in the age of AI. Why Mayes said, "Active listeners make better leaders." How employers and educators are working to close competency gaps for CPAs. What ENGAGE means to accounting professionals looking for new ideas, stronger connections, and practical innovation.
• 
  Aligning with AI: Lisa Simpson on how to overcome sense of overwhelm 04.06.2026 19min

  Lisa Simpson, CPA, CGMA, vice president–Firm Services at the AICPA, discusses the evolution of AICPA Town Hall, key takeaways from Town Hall's six years of programming, and how practitioners can navigate rapid change driven by AI. She shares insights on managing "a sense of overwhelm" related to AI and highlights resources that can help firms adapt, including the AICPA and CIMA AI resource hub.  The episode also includes a segment on the latest Economic Outlook Survey results and what they signal about business sentiment, inflation, and hiring. Other resources related to the topics: The CPA.com AI resource page, which includes a vendor evaluation framework. The Town Hall landing page, which includes a registration button. The full Economic Outlook Survey results for the second quarter. What you'll learn from this episode: Lisa Simpson's recap of topics at the recent PCPS Executive Committee meeting. How AICPA Town Hall has evolved to deliver news, analysis, and practice management insights. The common comment that Simpson jokingly says she gets about Town Hall. Why many CPAs feel a sense of overwhelm about AI and how to begin addressing it. Resources, including the AICPA AI hub and CPA.com tools, that can support firm decision-making. What recent Economic Outlook Survey results reveal about inflation concerns and hiring plans.
• 
  What CPA.com's CEO sees next for AI, tax, and the profession 28.05.2026 22min

  In this episode, Erik Asgeirsson of CPA.com looks back and looks ahead — to the next weeks and months and also to the future of AI in the accounting profession. Asgeirsson explains how AI's acceleration in tax, audit, and client advisory services builds on lessons learned during the cloud computing transformation. He outlines where firms are seeing the biggest opportunities, why tax is emerging as a key area for innovation, and how new AI capabilities are reshaping workflows and insights.  The conversation also covers practical steps for firms to get started with AI, along with the risks to manage and the long-term shift toward higher-value advisory services. Asgeirsson was one of the creators of AICPA Town Hall back in spring of 2020. He talked about Town Hall's guiding principles, which have shaped the show and resonate with its thousands of viewers today. Resources mentioned in the episode: CPA.com's AI resource page. AICPA ENGAGE agenda. Digital CPA Conference in December. What you'll learn from this episode: How lessons from the rise of cloud computing and client advisory services can guide firms' AI strategies. Why tax is emerging as a leading area for AI-driven transformation, from research to new preparation tools. What recent advances in AI models mean for CPAs, including stronger data analysis, automation, and integration into everyday tools. How small and midsize firms can get started with AI. Why embracing AI can lead to expansion for firms into higher-value advisory work, even as they manage risks such as data security and governance. Asgeirsson's reflection on the growth of AICPA Town Hall from a pandemic-era resource to a high-production platform shaping firm strategy and responding directly to member questions. One JofA-related highlight that Asgeirsson is looking forward to at ENGAGE.
• 
  Deregulation's state of play and the threats it poses to CPA licensure 21.05.2026 12min

  James Cox, an AICPA vice president, explains why efforts to weaken professional licensure are gaining traction in state legislatures. He discusses the role of the Alliance for Responsible Professional Licensing (ARPL) and the risks that deregulation could pose to CPAs and the public. The episode also highlights how organizations and professionals can stay informed and engaged as debates about professional licensing evolve. What you'll learn from this episode: Why Cox says that "attacks" on CPA licensure have expanded to new fronts in recent years. How state budget pressures and political trends are fueling deregulation efforts. How weakening licensing standards could reduce trust in financial reporting and other services. What polling shows about public and business support for professional licensure. Cox's recommendations to CPAs to stay vigilant and work with state societies.
• 
  How CPAs can show their value on National Accounting Day 19.05.2026 7min

  Today is National Accounting Day. To mark the occasion, Sue Coffey, CPA, CGMA, the AICPA's CEO–Public Accounting, joined the podcast for a special edition to discuss celebrating the day and maximizing the profession's broader impact. She explains how the CPA Trust campaign aims to highlight the value CPAs bring to businesses, individuals, and communities. Coffey shares examples of trust in action, from financial reporting to tax planning and advisory support. Coffey also details what practitioners can expect from ENGAGE in June. What you'll learn from this episode: The significance of National Accounting Day to Coffey. A preview of the AICPA's CPA Trust campaign. Real-world examples of how trust in action is demonstrated by CPAs with clients and communities. Why CPAs are encouraged to share their impact publicly through social media. What makes ENGAGE a key event for learning, networking, and industry insights.
• 
  Worrying about what's next? Take a minute and focus on the present 14.05.2026 16min

  A conversation with leadership and workplace mental health expert Morra Aarons-Mele explores why focusing on the present can improve performance, reduce stress, and strengthen decision-making. Aarons-Mele is the keynote speaker June 15 at the AICPA Not-for-Profit Industry Conference in National Harbor, Md. Aarons-Mele, also an author and podcaster, explains how leaders in high-pressure roles can balance necessary forward planning with short, purposeful pauses, which can improve clarity and team dynamics.  The discussion examines how organizations can apply mindfulness practices to build resilience and maintain focus in fast-moving environments. What you'll learn from this episode: Why Aarons-Mele emphasizes a focus on the present. The practice that she says has been "the single most healing, restorative, renewing thing I've done." Why the strategy of "take a minute and pause" can be effective during periods of disruption. What research says about the benefits of such pauses. Why Aarons-Mele warned against letting anxiety about the future drive decision-making. The effect that having "too many tabs open" can have on focus and performance at work.