How to Choose the Right CPA in 2026: Blake Oliver on AI, Private Equity, and Better Tax Advice

Slash Tax Podcast – Blake Oliver (Earmark CPE & The Accounting Podcast)Join host Heidi Henderson for an essential conversation with Blake Oliver, CPA, founder of Earmark CPE and host of The Accounting Podcast. Blake shares insider insights into the dramatic changes reshaping accounting and their implications for taxpayers and business owners.From musician to Starbucks barista to CPA to tech entrepreneur, Blake's journey gives him a unique perspective on what's broken in traditional accounting and how technology is creating solutions. He reveals why CPAs are retiring en masse, how AI will transform the profession, and what to look for when choosing an accounting partner who can help slash your tax bill.Key TopicsThe CPA shortage crisis and retirement wave are hitting the profession Why traditional accounting firms burn out talented CPAs  The shift from compliance to advisory services How to evaluate if your CPA is actually saving you money Finding specialized CPAs vs generalist firms AI's role in accounting: Excel comparison and what's comingPrivate equity takeover of accounting firms The rise of fractional CFOs and specialized boutique firms Earmark CPE: Free NASBA-approved CPE through podcasts YouTube and content marketing for professional services Fixed-fee vs billable hour pricing models Why giving away knowledge attracts better clientsAbout Blake OliverBlake Oliver is a CPA, entrepreneur, and host of The Accounting Podcast. He founded Earmark CPE, a platform allowing accountants to earn free NASBA-approved CPE credits by listening to podcasts—transforming how CPAs stay current.Blake studied cello at Northwestern University and performed with the San Francisco Youth Symphony before the Great Recession redirected him to accounting. After working at Starbucks, he transitioned into bookkeeping, discovered his passion for accounting and technology, worked in public accounting, led firms, and eventually sold his practice to focus on technology, education, and media. He uniquely understands both what firms struggle with and what clients need.Connect with Blake OliverBlake's Website: www.blakeoliver.comEarmark CPE: earmarkcpe.com The Accounting Podcast: theaccountingpodcast.com LinkedIn: linkedin.com/in/blaketoliver/ Twitter/X: x.com/BlakeTOliver YouTube: youtube.com/@BlakeTOliverLearn MoreEngineered Tax Services has helped investors and business owners unlock millions in tax savings for nearly 25 years through cost segregation, R&D credits, and energy incentives like 179D and 45L. 👉 Visit engineeredtaxservices.comSubscribe to Slash Tax | Leave a review | Share with business owners ready to find better accounting partnersTax strategy isn't just about saving money—it's about finding the right partners who can help you build wealth.Host: Heidi Henderson | Sponsor: Engineered Tax Services