Traction with the Tiger

Tax season is over. Now comes the real question: how should you measure it?In this solo episode of Traction with the Tiger, Chris Wittich breaks down the most common ways CPA firms evaluate tax season performance, and why many of them fall short. From revenue and returns filed to extensions, new clients, and staff workload, there’s no shortage of metrics. But not all of them drive better decisions.Chris shares his perspective as a tax department leader overseeing 50+ professionals and explains why he focuses on just two metrics to evaluate success:Total hours worked across the team as a measure of efficiency and sustainabilityThe experience of 10 key client relationships as a proxy for overall client successYou’ll also hear:Why revenue can lag and distort performance insightsHow tracking returns vs. extensions impacts workflow strategyThe connection between staff hours and stress levelsA practical way to simplify client satisfaction across thousands of engagementsChris closes with a transparent look at his firm’s recent tax season, including where performance improved, where it didn’t, and how it ultimately graded out.If you’re a CPA firm leader looking to refine how you measure performance and set clearer expectations going into the next busy season, this episode offers a focused, practical framework.

In this episode, Chris Wittich sits down with Josh Gerdes, Director of Recruiting Solutions at Boyum Barenscheer, to discuss strategies for attracting and retaining top talent in CPA firms. Josh shares insights on building a candidate-first experience, using proactive recruiting techniques, and creating a work environment that balances career growth with employee engagement.They also explore how internal recruiters can help firms scale efficiently, improve workforce planning, and enhance hiring outcomes. Whether you’re a CPA firm leader or HR professional, this episode provides actionable strategies for strengthening your recruiting process and building a high-performing team.

In this episode of Traction with the Tiger, host Chris Wittich sits down with James Woelfel, Audit Senior Accountant in Boyum Barenscheer’s Manufacturing Group, to discuss the current state of manufacturing in Minnesota and what the economic data suggests for 2026.They break down key economic indicators, including business confidence, new orders, capacity utilization, and manufacturing GDP, and explain how manufacturers can use both historical and forward-looking data to make more informed business decisions. The conversation also covers the real concerns Minnesota manufacturers are raising, including tariffs, interest rates, workforce challenges, and the state’s policy and regulatory environment.James introduces Boyum Barenscheer’s Manufacturing Economic Report, a one-of-a-kind resource built specifically for Minnesota manufacturers. The report provides monthly insights into Minnesota, Midwest, and national manufacturing trends, helping business leaders understand the broader market and plan with greater clarity and confidence.This episode is designed for manufacturing owners, CFOs, controllers, and operations leaders who want practical, data-driven insight to support growth, investment decisions, and long-term planning.

In this episode of Traction with the Tiger, Chris Wittich is joined by Senior Tax Manager Nick Creamer to discuss Minnesota’s ongoing nonconformity with recent federal tax changes and what it means for the 2026 tax season. They break down key issues like bonus depreciation, Section 174 R&D expensing, no tax on tips and overtime, and the expiration of Minnesota’s PTE election. With uncertainty around whether the legislature will pass a conformity bill this year, Chris and Nick walk through the risks, planning considerations, and why extending your return may be the smartest move.

The salon industry is experiencing its biggest tax changes in decades and the impact is huge.In this episode of Traction with the Tiger, Chris Wittich and salon industry specialist Tracy Stevens break down what’s happening right now, from tip credits and compliance to why tax planning matters more than ever. They share real-world insights on how salon owners can avoid missed opportunities, improve cash flow, and set their businesses up for success in 20256 and beyond.A must-listen for salon owners navigating a rapidly changing tax landscape.

In the inaugural episode of Season Two of Traction with the Tiger, host and “Tax Tiger” Chris Wittich sits down with Leslie Callahan, Director of Leadership Development and HR, to explore the role coaching plays in driving personal, professional, and firm-wide growth.Chris and Leslie discuss how the firm’s coaching program began, what coaching looks like in practice, and why it has become a critical tool for navigating change, leadership transitions, and the challenges that come with growth in public accounting. From building resilience and gaining new perspectives to preparing the next generation of firm leaders, this episode offers a candid look at the impact coaching can have, when it’s the right fit.Whether you’re considering coaching for yourself or your firm, this conversation breaks down what works, what doesn’t, and why choosing the right coach matters.

In this episode, Chris Wittich and Jasmin McKenzie take a deep dive into headline-making tax crime stories from the world of reality TV. From lavish spending to falsified financial records and ultimately prison sentences, they walk through how things escalated behind the scenes and what stood out from an accounting perspective. Along the way, they reflect on how fame, ego, and money can collide in spectacular fashion, and why these stories continue to fascinate the public.

Join host Chris Wittich and guest Jasmin McKenzie as they break down what strong internal controls look like for nonprofit organizations.In this episode, they explore why accurate financial reporting matters, how to right-size controls for small and mid-sized nonprofits, the most common mistakes organizations make, how boards can play a meaningful role, and what steps leaders should take if they’re unsure about their current processes.Whether you’re managing grants, preparing for an audit, or simply trying to strengthen your financial oversight, this episode delivers practical advice nonprofits can use today.

In this episode of Traction with the Tiger, host and “tax tiger” Chris Wittich sits down with Boyum Barenscheer HR Director Marie Prewett to unpack Minnesota’s new Paid Family and Medical Leave law, set to take effect in 2026. They discuss who’s covered, key compliance deadlines, and how to choose between the state program and private plan options. Marie also shares practical advice for employers who want to get ahead of the rollout, along with resources to help navigate this major change.

In this emergency headline episode of Traction with the Tiger, host and tax tiger Chris Wittich covers the IRS announcement and executive order aimed at reducing paper checks. Paper refund checks and paper payments will largely be phased out after September 30, 2025, with some exceptions. Chris explains why this change matters, how electronic payments and direct deposit refunds are faster and more secure, and why setting up an online IRS account can make tax management easier for both taxpayers and their CPAs.

In this emergency headline episode of Traction with a Tiger, host and tax tiger Chris Wittich dives into one of the most overlooked but critical issues in tax planning, state conformity. While the One Big Beautiful Bill introduced sweeping federal tax changes, states like Minnesota do not automatically follow suit. Chris explains how static conformity works, why it creates uncertainty, and what taxpayers and businesses should be watching for in 2025. From bonus depreciation to tip deductions, learn why your federal benefit may not carry over to your state return and why patience, planning, and sometimes extending your return may be your best strategy.

This episode of Traction with the Tiger delivers a headline update on Qualified Small Business Stock, also known as Section 1202. The One Big Beautiful Bill has extended and expanded QSBS, introducing new holding period tiers and raising eligibility thresholds. Whether you’re setting up a new business or advising clients on entity structure, this quick breakdown highlights what’s changed and what to consider moving forward.

In this emergency headline episode of Traction with the Tiger, host and Tax Tiger Chris Wittich is joined by Isabel Wollermann from the tax team to break down recent changes to 529 plans included in the One Big Beautiful Bill. From doubling the K–12 spending limit to $20,000, to allowing funds to cover professional credentials like the CPA exam, these updates significantly expand how families can use 529 savings. Tune in to hear how these changes might impact your education planning, whether you're saving for a kindergartener or a future grad student.

In this emergency headline edition of Traction with the Tiger, host and Tax Tiger Chris Wittich cuts through the noise surrounding the much-hyped "no tax on Social Security" provision. Spoiler alert: that’s not actually what the law does. Chris breaks down the new $6,000 senior deduction, who qualifies, how it phases out based on income, and why it has nothing to do with whether you’re actually receiving Social Security benefits. If you’re 65 or older, or advising someone who is, this episode is essential listening.

In this emergency headline episode of Traction with the Tiger, host and Tax Tiger Chris Wittich breaks down the surprising new rules around charitable deductions under the One Big Beautiful Bill. There’s a new above-the-line deduction of up to $1,000 (or $2,000 for joint filers) for cash donations, even if you don’t itemize. But for those who do itemize, a 0.5% AGI floor has been introduced, meaning the first portion of your donations may not be deductible at all. Chris walks through what these changes mean in practice and who is most affected. Whether you give a little or a lot, this episode helps you plan your giving strategy under the new rules.

In this emergency headline episode of Traction with the Tiger, host and Tax Tiger Chris Wittich unpacks a brand-new and unexpected benefit from the One Big Beautiful Bill: the ability for some individuals to deduct up to $10,000 of interest on a new car loan. But, as always, the details matter. Chris breaks down who qualifies, how the deduction works (hint: it’s not itemized), the phaseout thresholds, and what this means when deciding whether to lease, buy, or finance your next vehicle. It’s a helpful new option, but it won’t make high interest rates disappear. Tune in for a clear-eyed look at how to factor this into your car-buying math.

In this emergency headline episode of Traction with the Tiger, host and Tax Tiger Chris Wittich explains a brand-new feature of the One Big Beautiful Bill: The “Trump Accounts.” Designed for children born between 2025 and 2028, these government-seeded investment accounts start with a $1,000 contribution and allow for up to $5,000 in additional contributions annually. Chris explores how they work, what makes them different (or not) from existing savings vehicles like 529s or Roth IRAs, and whether they’re truly worth considering. With restrictions on withdrawals, limited clarity, and political uncertainty surrounding their longevity, Chris gives a thoughtful first look at what could be a useful, but possibly short-lived, tool.

In this emergency headline edition of Traction with the Tiger, host and Tax Tiger Chris Wittich breaks down the surprising and sweeping elimination of energy-related tax incentives under the One Big Beautiful Bill. From the repeal of Section 179D deductions to the disappearance of residential solar, geothermal, EV, and home improvement credits, most of these benefits are slated to end after 2025, with some (like 179D) lasting until mid-2026 depending on construction start dates. Chris explains what’s going away, why it matters, and what clients should consider as the window rapidly closes on these incentives. It’s a tough update, but one with critical planning opportunities for those who act fast.

In this emergency headline episode of Traction with the Tiger, host and Tax Tiger Chris Wittich unpacks the latest updates surrounding the Employee Retention Credit (ERC) in light of the recently passed One Big Beautiful Bill. From increased enforcement provisions and extended statutes of limitations to newly issued IRS FAQs, Chris breaks down what it all means for taxpayers, especially those who filed late or are just now receiving funds. He also explains the practical implications of picking up ERC income in the year received or deducting repayments in the current year. With a new IRS commissioner stepping in and ongoing developments, ERC remains a hot topic.

In this quick-hit emergency episode of Traction with the Tiger, host and Tax Tiger Chris Wittich dives into a smart question raised during a recent client webinar: If bonus depreciation is back to 100%, is Section 179 still worth it? Spoiler alert. yes, it is. Chris breaks down the critical differences between bonus depreciation and Section 179, including flexibility, state treatment, income planning, and how each interacts with various loss limitation rules. If you’ve ever wondered how to fine-tune your depreciation strategy for better tax outcomes, this one’s for you.

Chris Wittich tackles a late-breaking tax change that’s creating a lot of noise: the new 90% cap on deductible gambling losses.Previously, gambling losses were deductible up to the amount of winnings now, only 90% of those losses count. The result? Gamblers who break even could still owe tax on phantom income.Chris explains how this rule affects both casual gamblers and professionals, why Minnesota taxpayers may already be familiar with this kind of treatment, and why this provision, despite being called “permanent”, may not last. Lawmakers are already introducing bills to repeal it.If gambling shows up on your return, this is one to watch.

Chris Wittich sits down with Nick Swedberg to cover one of the most talked-about provisions in the new tax bill: the no-tax-on-tips deduction.This new rule allows up to $25,000 in tip income to be excluded from tax, but only if the tips are properly reported and come from a job where tipping is considered customary.Chris and Nick discuss who qualifies, how the deduction works, what’s still uncertain, and how this may influence future policy and employer practices, especially in restaurants and salons.From stylists and servers to casino dealers and delivery drivers, the effects of this change could be far-reaching for both workers and business owners.

Chris Wittich and Matthew Koch unpack the sweeping changes to depreciation in the new tax bill.From the return of 100% bonus depreciation to an expanded Section 179 limit, there’s plenty to like. But the real story is a new category, Qualified Manufacturing Property, that could allow manufacturers to fully expense the cost of new or significantly renovated facilities.Chris and Matthew cover what we know, what’s still unclear, and how this change opens the door for proactive planning, especially for companies already considering expansion. They also explore the financial and compliance considerations around timing, interest rates, loss limitations, and IRS guidance still to come.

Chris Wittich and Matthew Koch explore the long-awaited fix to Section 174 that finally passed in the new tax bill. After three years of painful addbacks and capitalization requirements, businesses with domestic R&D expenses can now go back to deducting them, but not without a few key decisions.Chris and Matthew walk through what changed, what didn’t, and what options businesses now have to handle their prior-year expenses. With three different paths for small businesses and two for larger ones, the modeling, timing, and risk tolerance involved will all play a role in the decision.They also cover IRS delays, state conformity challenges, and how advisors can guide clients through the uncertainty.

In this emergency headline edition of Big Beautiful Breakdown, Chris Wittich is joined by Nick Swedberg to dive deep into a hidden gem in the new tax legislation. The Tip Credit, long available only to food service businesses, is finally being extended to salons, spas, barbers, and other beauty industry professionals.Chris and Nick explain how the credit works, why it matters, and what it means for compliance and planning going forward. They also explore how this change could be a major differentiator between CPAs who understand the beauty industry and those who don’t.

In this episode of The Big Beautiful Breakdown, Chris Wittich is joined by Barb Sawdy to demystify the new “no tax on overtime” provision included in the latest tax bill.They break down how this new deduction is expected to function, including the $12,500 cap, income phaseouts, and the mechanics of tracking overtime pay. The big question: how will this actually show up on your W-2, and will payroll providers be ready in time?This is a practical, behind-the-scenes look at how policy becomes real for employers, employees, and tax preparers alike.

In this solo episode of The Big Beautiful Breakdown, Chris Wittich covers key individual tax provisions in the new tax bill that have been extended or only slightly modified.He explains what’s not changing, including tax brackets, the standard deduction, and personal exemptions, along with small increases to the child tax credit and daycare credit.A helpful overview for taxpayers wondering what to expect going into 2025.

In this episode of The Big Beautiful Breakdown, Chris Wittich takes a closer look at the updated SALT cap, one of the most hotly contested parts of the new tax bill.While the cap on state and local tax deductions has been increased from $10,000 to $40,000, it now comes with a sharp phaseout for joint filers between $500,000 and $600,000 of income. The result? A potential effective federal tax rate over 43 percent in that range.Chris walks through the math, the impact, and why smart planning matters more than ever, especially for wage earners and high-income professionals.

Welcome to The Big Beautiful Breakdown, our special podcast series on the newly passed tax bill.In this first episode, Chris Wittich tackles one of the most complex intersections in the legislation — how changes to the QBI deduction and SALT cap phaseouts could lead to an unexpectedly high tax burden for service business owners earning between $500,000 and $600,000.A critical listen for anyone navigating year-end planning in light of the new rules.

Now that we're officially out of busy season, it's time to look back and reflect.In this episode of Traction with the Tiger, host Chris Wittich is joined by fellow tax professional Drew Wolf for a candid conversation about surviving tax season while parenting young children. They talk sleep deprivation, shifting expectations, and how even 50-hour weeks can feel long when your baby thinks 4:30 AM is go time.They share business and personal bests and dive into the challenges of balancing family life with professional demands. They also reflect on how firm culture and reduced hour expectations make a difference and why flexibility matters more than ever.A raw, relatable episode for anyone navigating life as a working parent during the busiest time of year.

In this episode (recorded back in April), we check in on the IRS, and let’s just say, it’s not going great. From Employee Retention Credit (ERC) claims stuck in bureaucratic limbo, to automated notices that seem to ignore reality, to the never-ending wait for amended returns, we unpack the chaos taxpayers and tax professionals are facing right now. We talk about COVID-era backlogs, what’s changed (and what hasn’t), and the potentially dire impact of looming layoffs and leadership shakeups.We also touch on the one sliver of light: individual IRS online accounts, which, believe it or not, might actually be worth your time. Tune in for a candid conversation about the state of taxpayer service, and where things might be heading.

In this episode of Traction with the Tiger, host Chris Wittich is joined by Becky Gibbs and Kevin McCarty from Boyum’s factoring group. They dive into the world of factoring, explaining how companies buy receivables to help small businesses with cash flow. The team discusses the unique challenges and opportunities in this niche, their specialized approach to audits and reviews, and their upcoming participation in the International Factoring Association’s event. Tune in to learn more about this specialized industry and how Boyum supports its clients.

In this episode of Traction with the Tiger, host Chris Wittich sits down with Nick Swedberg, the firm’s in-house restaurant and brewery expert. Together, they dive into the unique tax challenges faced by food and beverage businesses, covering payroll taxes, sales tax compliance, and research and development credits. Nick shares how his specialized knowledge helps these businesses avoid costly mistakes, optimize savings, and navigate the complexities of industry-specific tax laws. With a deep passion for food and years of experience working with local breweries and restaurants, Nick reveals how industry expertise can be the key to long-term success.

In this episode of Traction with the Tiger, Chris Wittich sits down with Dan Callewaert, one of the newest managers at the firm, to dive into the world of mergers and acquisitions (M&A). Dan shares his journey from public accounting to specializing in M&A, explaining the different stages of the M&A process, from buyer to seller. They discuss deal structures, valuation strategies, and the importance of forward-looking analysis. Whether you're buying or selling a business, this episode offers valuable insights into making successful deals.

In part two of our Death and Taxes series, we shift the focus to the living: what steps can you take now to make estate planning smoother for your loved ones? Host Chris Wittich welcomes back Matthew Koch to discuss key strategies like setting up wills and trusts, designating beneficiaries, and properly titling assets to avoid unnecessary headaches. They also dive into the importance of avoiding probate, reducing compliance costs, and ensuring a seamless transition of wealth.

In this episode we dive into the crucial steps to take when handling the estate of a deceased loved one. From gathering essential documents like wills and death certificates to understanding account titling, probate thresholds, and tax filings, we break down the key responsibilities of executors and personal representatives. We also discuss Form 1041, the fiduciary income tax return, and how estate income is managed. If you’ve ever wondered where to start when a family member passes, this episode provides a practical roadmap for navigating the process.

In this episode of Traction with the Tiger, Chris Wittich is joined by Greg Carlson, a partner at the firm, to discuss the latest on tariffs and their potential impact on businesses. With recent developments, including new tariffs on Canada, Mexico, and China, the duo offers insights into how businesses should approach the situation. They emphasize staying informed, understanding financial impacts, and making proactive, yet measured, decisions to navigate the uncertainty. Listen in for valuable advice on managing supply chain disruptions and preparing for possible changes in the coming months.

In this episode of Traction with the Tiger, host Chris Wittich chats with Ashley Sparks, a partner at the firm, about serving manufacturing clients. Ashley shares insights into challenges like adapting to QuickBooks changes, navigating tax issues like R&D credits, and handling tariffs. The discussion highlights the firm's team-based approach to client service, offering tailored solutions for businesses of all sizes. Tune in for a look at how the firm supports its manufacturing clients with innovative strategies and collaborative teamwork.

In the debut episode of Traction with the Tiger, host Chris Wittich sits down with Charlie Metzig, Managing Partner at Boyum Barenscheer. They discuss Charlie’s journey from staff auditor to firm leader, the evolving landscape of public accounting, and how Boyum is adapting to industry changes like AI, remote work, and talent retention. Plus, they dive into the firm’s core values and the importance of work-life balance in accounting.