Telling a better CPA story, one T-shirt and LinkedIn post at a time

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.