It Figures: The CRI Podcast

This week on It Figures, Ray Roberts and David Mills dive into the critical IT risks facing modern government entities. From evolving cyber threats to the complex rules surrounding IT usage, we explore how public organizations can better navigate the digital landscape. Whether you are looking to strengthen your internal controls or understand the latest regulatory expectations, this episode provides actionable insights for managing technology risks in the public sector. Tune in to learn how to stay ahead of vulnerabilities and protect the communities you serve.Visit CRIadv.com for more.

This week, Phyllis Ingram⁠ and ⁠Chad Singletary⁠ pull back the curtain on the world of lobbying and its impact on nonprofit organizations. Ever wondered how advocacy efforts really affect your tax-exempt status? They dive into the history of lobbying expenditures, and break down the essential definitions of lobbying, current compliance requirements, and the specific paths available for nonprofits to engage in advocacy effectively without risking their standing. Tune in to learn how to navigate these complex regulations and what these shifts mean for your industry! For more, visit https://www.criadv.com

In this episode of It Figures, David Williams and Derrick Mason explore how recent legislation is shaking up the healthcare industry! They dive into the impact of Medicaid changes and new Medicare Advantage restrictions while highlighting the massive opportunities within the Rural Health Transformation Program. This conversation breaks down how these funds empower organizations to move beyond rescue care and toward innovative delivery models that improve long term patient outcomes.Whether you are navigating funding cuts or looking to lead the charge in rural health innovation, this discussion provides the strategic roadmap needed for 2026 and beyond.Listen in to learn how to turn these legislative challenges into a competitive advantage for your organization.Visit https://www.criadv.com for more.

This week, join Keith Hundley and Holly Williamson as they share everything you need to know about joining us in Music City for the 2026 Southern Grants Forum!Keith and Holly dive into the logistics you need to plan your trip to the iconic Loews Nashville Hotel from July 13–16, 2026. They break down the essential deadlines and details to ensure you’re ready for the premier grants training event of the year, all while enjoying the vibrant atmosphere of Nashville.Whether you're coming for the professional development or the local charm, Keith and Holly have your ultimate roadmap. Listen in and get ready to join us this July! To register and for more information, visit https://southerngrantsforum.com/

The construction industry is at a crossroads as a massive demographic shift prepares to usher its most experienced leaders into retirement. In this episode, Dan Sellers and Robert Coker dig into the data behind the industry’s widening age gap and what this "silver tsunami" actually means for the future of your firm. We move beyond the statistics to provide business owners with a blueprint for leadership succession and ownership transition.From mentoring the next generation of project managers to structuring airtight long-term exit plans, we're sharing the essential tools you need to bridge the talent divide. Join us to learn how to ensure your business doesn't just survive your departure - it thrives.Visit https://www.criadv.com for more.

In this episode, Sam Clark and Chad Sexton unpack the high-stakes world of manufacturing and distribution. From supply chain disruptions to labor shortages, the industry is facing a unique set of hurdles that demand smarter, faster decision-making.Sam and Chad share their insights on the specific challenges keeping leaders up at night and provide a practical framework for making the tough calls that drive long-term stability. Whether you’re looking to optimize your shop floor or streamline your logistics, this conversation is packed with the strategic advice you need to navigate today's industrial landscape.Learn more at https://www.criadv.com

Big things are happening at CRI! In this episode, we’re joined by ⁠Brent Leslie⁠ and ⁠Michael Corkery t⁠o discuss the launch of CRI’s new Capital Markets practice. We explore why small-cap and middle-market companies have been traditionally underserved when it comes to IPO readiness and SEC reporting, and how this new service line is filling that gap.Learn more at:https://www.criadv.com

In this episode, join CRI’s David Mills and Tyler Mills as they break down key cybersecurity topics every business should understand. From the future of passkeys versus passwords to best practices for patch deployment and strategies for effective backup protection, this discussion delivers practical insights to help safeguard your organization

In this episode, CRI’s Jeff Silver, Jeff Hawkins, and Christian Williams offer a refresher on Transaction Advisory Services (TAS)—what they are, who we serve, and why it matters. As more clients move toward eventual exits, it’s critical for partners across the firm to understand the value TAS brings to the table. Tune in for a practical breakdown of the service line and the role it plays in helping clients prepare for what’s next.

As governmental accounting and reporting grow more complex, many are asking whether it’s time for simpler standards for small governments. In this episode, April Shuping, Becky Hammond, and Dean Mead explore the debate around "big GAAP" vs. "small GAAP" in the public sector, weighing the pros and cons of differentiated standards. We’ll also highlight helpful resources from GASB designed to support governments of all sizes.

In this episode, join CRI's Keith Hundley, Sandi Guy, Alyssa Hill, and David Mills as they give a preview of the upcoming Southern Grants Forum taking place this summer in New Orleans.You'll hear what makes this event one of the leading training opportunities for grants professionals, including the key topics being covered, the caliber of speakers and sessions, and the value it brings to grant managers, finance staff, auditors, and others working in the grants space.We also discuss what attendees can expect from the in-person experience, including opportunities for networking and personalized learning. Whether you're new to grants management or a seasoned professional, this forum offers practical guidance and insight to help you stay current and compliant.Tune in to learn why the Southern Grants Forum should be on your calendar this summer.

On this weeks episode, join CRI Partners April Shuping, Sandi Guy, and Matthew Montemayor as they explore the American Institute of CPAs' (AICPA) groundbreaking approaches to supporting aspiring CPAs on their journey to certification. They'll uncover how the AICPA is reimagining resources and strategies to help future accountants not only achieve their certification goals but also manage work-life balance effectively. Plus dive into practical tips for contributing positively to office culture, ensuring that new CPAs can thrive both professionally and personally. Tune in for insights that will inspire and inform, whether you’re a student, a recent grad, or a seasoned professional looking to enrich your career and workplace environment. Don’t miss this chance to hear from experts at the forefront of these transformative efforts!

Over the next 18 years, over $60 billion of opioid settlement funds will be paid to state governments who will be passing some of it through to local governments. Join CRI Partners April Shuping, Becky Hammond, and Dean Mead, as they explain what questions local government finance officers should be asking and the resources available to help them to determine the correct accounting and disclosure for these new funds.

On this weeks episode, CRI Partner Dean Mead, and Principal Consultant of Muni Credit & Compliance Advisors, LLC, Anne Ross, dive into the common ways that state and local governments raise money to build and improve highways, water mains, and other infrastructures. This episode covers all the basics of what an underwriter is and what it does for government issuers of debt.

Aaaand we're back! As we kick off our new season, join CRI Partner, Doug Mims, and Financial Institutions Audit Manager, Jennifer Wilkerson, as they dive into the ins and outs of CECL within Community Banks.

Join CRI Partners Rob Lemmon, April Shuping, and Dean Mead, as they dive into The Financial Data Transparency Act and all that that entails; including requirements, guidelines, and other practical knowledge.

On this week's episode of "It Figures," join CRI Partners Hillary Collier and Doug Mims, as they look at ways for community banks to better help their customers, and formulate new processes with loan modifications.

Join CRI Partner Bryan Hall and Director of Physician Services Georgina Perry, as they discuss the current medical staffing crisis, how administrators can secure talent, and best practices to streamline processes for maximum efficiency.

On this week's episode, CRI Partner Sandi Guy speaks with colleagues Melissa Wyatt and Grant Schumpert about remote vs hybrid work, optimal culture and climate of the workplace, and ways managers can improve communication with their teams.

Join CRI New Orleans Partner, Geoffrey Cover, as he discusses cost segregation and other engineered tax benefits that you can use in your tax planning after you've acquired or considered purchasing real estate.

This week, join CRI Jeff Silver, Jeff Hawkins, and Marc Berry, as they discuss the current trends they see within mergers and acquisitions, how they think the market will change, and how to be successful in this space.

On this week's episode of "It Figures," join CRI Partners Rob Lemmon, Becky Hammond, and Dean Michael Mead, as they dive into the world of deferrals and how to navigate those waters.

It's all about longevity! Join CRI Partners Robert Coker and Larry May, as they dive into identifying solid succession candidates and preparing the next generation of talent for your business.

On this week's episode, join CRI Partners Rob Demonbreun and Chris Cain as they dive into evaluating credit risk management, stress tests, and proper bank management.

On this week's episode, join CRI Partners, Scott Bailey, Joseph May, and Steve Williams, as they discuss the recent labor market changes and their effects on matters of compliance.

Join CRI Birmingham Partner, Robert Coker, and CRI Jackson Partner, Larry May, as they dive into what makes a successful employee retention program, how to foster a productive culture and climate in your business, and how to nurture new hires.

In this week's episode, join CRI Atlanta Partners Hillary Collier and Doug Mims (Financial Institutions Sub-Line Leader,) as they discuss the FDICIA Transition for Community Banks, and what it means for them and their clients.

On this week's episode, CRI Partners Tina Stewart and Gwen Mansfield-Vogt get into the weeds of a single audit, why they matter, and what you can do as an organization to prepare for a successful report.

Join CRI Charleston Partner-In-Charge, Carrie Lanning and Partner, Stephanie Spinucci as they discuss the tax benefits and breakdowns of your Airbnb, Vrbo, and other short-term rentals.

Have questions about the 2023 Southern Grants Forum? CRI Partner Keith Hundley has you covered. For more info visit www.southerngrantsforum.com.

In this week's episode, join Joy Hodgson (Partner and Chief Operations Officer of CRI TPA Services,) and Daniel Rodriguez (Partner and Chief Executive Officer of CRI TPA Services) as they dive into the SECURE 2.0 Act and how it pertains to and impacts changes for business owners. 

In this episode, CRI Capital Advisors Paul Evans, Joel Sikes, and Brandon Maddox will reveal the art and science of a market assessment, how they have been able to attain a 90%+ accuracy level, and why this is a first important step for any business owner who wants to sell at some point.

In this week's episode, join Joy Hodgson (Partner and Chief Operations Officer of CRI TPA Services,) and Daniel Rodriguez (Partner and Chief Executive Officer of CRI TPA Services) as they dive into the SECURE 2.0 Act and how it pertains to and impacts Individual Taxpayers. 

An internal audit should be your first line of defense in the battle against poor processes and controls. Listen in to this episode from CRI insurance partners Scott Bailey and Joe May as they discuss how to leverage the internal audit function to improve your organization’s risk management, control environment, operational efficiency, and overall strategic decision-making.

In this episode of It Figures: The CRI Podcast, Partners Alan Jowers and Chad Branson break down the Florida Senate Bill SB 4-D and the catastrophic event of a 12-story condominium that collapsed in the Surfside Community of Miami Beach in June 2021. Take a listen as they dive into the key elements of what this legislation means, and how you can better serve your clients in the residential market. 

In this episode of It Figures: The CRI Podcast, we take a deep dive into all things GASB. Listeners will hear insights from CRI Partners Rob Lemmon, April Shuping, and Dean Michael Mead - who spent over two decades with the GASB in various senior leadership positions. Tune in to find out more about the current and future GASB standard-setting practices, changes to the accounting industry after Statement 34, and potential guidance on upcoming standards.

Navigating the Financial Accounting Standards Board's new lease standard, ASC 842, involves a complex choreography of financial statement organization and preparation. In this episode of It Figures, CRI Partners Lorri Kidder and Alyssa Hill explain how strategic planning, cloud-based software, and a little bit of elbow grease can streamline the lease accounting process.

Centralizing your organization's lease data is more important than ever. If your organization is struggling to keep up with the ongoing changes to GASB & FASB compliance standards, it's time to implement a centralized lease software. CentraLease powered by CRI Advanced Analytics is a user-friendly and cost-effective option that allows your organization to achieve actionable and retrievable data at your fingertips. Tune in to this episode of It Figures as CRI Senior Managers Jessica Ortiz and David Knowlton summarize a few client success stories and unravel the benefits of using real-time lease compliance software.

As we approach an increasingly remote workforce with our laptops, and therefore our jobs, being only steps away, the goal of "work-life balance" seems a bit arduous. In this episode of It Figures, CRI Human Capital Partner Sandi Guy and Senior Manager Kendra LaFleur explore how the individual's definition of balance has changed in the last decade and potential ways to adjust.

An all-inclusive, comprehensive internship can be invaluable to the development of a young professional. In recent years, we've seen a fundamental shift in the dynamics of what individuals look for in intern programs and careers. Tune in to this "Conversations that Count" episode of It Figures and hear from CRI Human Capital Partner Sandi Guy, Senior Accountant Megan Treiber, and Staff Accountant Kevin Rivera as they discuss how the experience gleaned from an internship can help shape your career.

Join us for another episode in our Conversations That Count series as CRI Human Capital Partner Sandi Guy, Supervising Senior Andrew Clavin, and Staff Accountant Shakyla Cooper discuss inclusion and diversity within the accounting profession. In the current business climate, commonly referred to as the "Great Resignation," it's no secret that employers are overwrought with issues of employee retention. Listen in as we characterize some of the inclusion and diversity essentials in an increasingly divergent job market.

Tune in as CRI Capital Advisors' Partners Paul Evans, Joel Sikes, and Brandon Maddox discuss the five stages of selling a business for maximum value. Listeners will learn everything from the discovery of premarket company value to the due diligence and closing processes. The successful sale of a business requires special care and attention to overcome the challenges faced along the way.

Join CRI Partners Rob Lemmon, Tina Stewart, and A.J. Bowers as they delineate some of the most common mistakes made surrounding the Annual Comprehensive Financial Reports (ACFR). Listeners will also learn the benefits of a properly performed ACFR, updates to the GASB pronouncements, and some top tips for ACFR preparers.

Southern Grants Forum is the Southeast region’s premier grants training conference. Tune in as CRI Partner Keith Hundley and CRI Brand Manager Lauren Magli discuss the location and schedule of the conference and what to expect when attending. You and fellow grants professionals can learn about the key requirements for managing awards, the latest developments affecting grant-funded organizations, and the future of grants management.

With compounded unique insight into the evolution of SSAE No. 21, listen in as CRI Partners Jimmy Woodall and Chad Singletary address and interpret the criteria involved with implementing this attestation standard. Get to know the potential impacts your organization may face, evaluate your current information, and prepare for the application of SSAE No. 21.

Grab the nearest fire extinguisher or a corner to cry in because the IRS is engulfed in more than just flames this tax season. In this episode, CRI Partners Seth Margolies and Michael Carter stop, drop, and roll through a myriad of ongoing IRS nightmares that keep us up at night. You will also learn the steps you can take with your CPA to help speed up the filing process.

Did you choose tax accounting, or did tax accounting choose you? In this episode, CRI Human Capital Partner Sandi Guy sits down with Tanvi Gandhi, Holly Cefalu, and Seth Margolies to divulge the pros and cons of the daily life of a tax accountant and investigate the continued evolution of their career path.

Whether you're managing a governmental accounting team or a Pennsylvania-based mid-size paper company, you'll benefit from this episode of It Figures: The CRI Podcast. Tune in as CRI Partners Rob Lemmon, Ray Roberts, and April Shuping illustrate their personal experiences in the industry, recount government-specific junctures, and divulge some of their secrets to managerial success.

If you started a new business and began operations after February 15, 2020, you might be eligible for up to $100,000 in tax credits over the third and fourth quarters of 2021. In this episode of It Figures, CRI Partner Mike Scott and Paywerx Senior Tax Manager Randy Matthews consider the newly updated eligibility requirements for the Employee Retention Credit (ERC).

On the heels of a tumultuous 2020, the first half of 2021 has proved no less challenging with unique considerations for insurance companies and regulators. In this episode, CRI Partner Scott Bailey and Senior Manager Andrea Harbison will discuss the hot-button issue of Own Risk and Solvency Assessments (ORSA) and the changes to the regulatory examination process resulting from COVID-19.