BeansTalk

Think R&D tax credits are only for high-tech labs? Frank Battaglia joins the latest episode to explain how recent tax law "resets" allow businesses in manufacturing, software, and beyond to claim immediate deductions for U.S.-based innovation. Learn how to stop leaving money on the table and leverage these incentives to boost your bottom line, regardless of your company's size or profitability.About our guest Frank BattagliaFrank specializes in helping clients identify and maximize supportable research and development (R&D) tax credits and other incentive opportunities. He has extensive experience assisting privately held businesses across a variety of industries in capturing valuable tax incentives that support innovation and growth. Learn more about Frank and his expertise here.About our host Brandon SmithBrandon Smith, CPA, is a Partner based in the Atlanta office and the Advisory Practice Leader. Learn more about Brandon and his expertise here.Learn more about our firm here

Celebrate Women’s History Month with Kristen Lord as she reveals why financial literacy is the ultimate tool for empowerment in leadership. We discuss the tactical "green lights" for business expansion and how to survive the operational shifts that come with rapid growth. Stay tuned for an honest look at the essential advice Kristen would give her younger self to navigate the intersection of finance, growth, and leadership.About our guestKristen Lord, CPA, is the Chief Operating Officer of Mauldin & Jenkins, LLC. Kristen joined Mauldin & Jenkins in 2006, and focused her career on audits of financial institutions before transitioning to the COO role. Kristen was a 2017 Cobb Young Professionals Next Generation Award nominee and a 2016 Georgia Southern University Alumni 40 Under 40 award recipient. Kristen is a member of Cobb Executive Women and the CPA Firm Management Association. Learn more about Kristen and her expertise here.About our hostBrandon Smith, CPA, is a Partner based in the Atlanta office and the Advisory Practice Leader. Learn more about Brandon and his expertise here.Learn more about our firm here.

In this special feature episode, we go beyond the standard regulatory checklist to provide a blueprint for navigating a landmark year in financial oversight. As we move through 2026, the intersection of legacy stability and rapid deregulation has created a complex new environment for financial institutions.About our Guest Emily Dent is a partner with Mauldin & Jenkins and has been with the Firm since 2007. With over twenty years of experience in the financial institutions sector, she has decided to focus primarily on regulatory compliance. In addition to being a CPA, she holds the Certified Regulatory Compliance Manager (CRCM) certification and the Certified Anti-Money Laundering Specialist (CAMS) certification. Learn more about Emily and her expertise here.About our HostBrandon Smith, CPA, is a Partner based in the Atlanta office and the Advisory Practice Leader. Learn more about Brandon and his expertise here.Learn more about our Financial Institution Compliance services here. 

Thinking about expanding your business beyond U.S. borders? In this episode, we explore the key tax and compliance challenges that U.S.-based companies face when operating internationally. From foreign tax obligations and reporting requirements to navigating international trade laws and local regulations, our experts break down what businesses need to know to stay compliant and competitive abroad. Whether you're just starting to explore global markets or already operating overseas, this episode is packed with practical insights to help you avoid costly mistakes.About Our GuestWilliam Roberts is the International Tax Counsel with Mauldin & Jenkins, LLC. He has over 20 years of tax experience, primarily focused on International taxation. He specializes in directing and implementing diverse global outbound and inbound tax strategies, compliance and reporting initiatives, for large and middle-market companies.About Our HostBrent Ullrich is a Partner with Mauldin & Jenkins, LLC, with over 15 years of experience in many areas of taxation and industries, most notably in healthcare, real estate, private equity, technology and professional services. He also serves as the Firm’s Tax Strategy and Research Leader, which offers technical guidance and identifies planning opportunities for the firm to support clients on complex issues across a range of technical tax areas.Learn more about our International Taxation services here: https://www.mjcpa.com/services/tax/international-taxation/

As the economic landscape continues to shift, financial institutions face a high-stakes balancing act: capturing market share without compromising credit quality. In this special edition episode, Brandon Smith and Jay Lucas dive into the current state of commercial lending and explore how top-tier lenders are navigating the tension between aggressive growth and rigorous risk discipline.About Our GuestJay Lucas has over 25 years of experience in the financial services industry, where he has gained extensive knowledge in Risk Management, Commercial Lending, SBA Compliance, and has performed billions of dollars in annual commercial credit reviews for Community and Regional Institutions. During the great recession, Jay worked as a contract Investigations Manager for the FDIC, where he performed in-depth financial investigations and expert loan reviews for both bank and regulatory violations.About Our HostBrandon Smith, CPA, is a Partner based in the Atlanta office and the Advisory Practice Leader. Learn more about our Financial Institution Credit Review services here: https://www.mjcpa.com/financial-institution-credit-review-services/ and Financial Institution Compliance services here: https://www.mjcpa.com/services/consulting-advisory-services/financial-institution-compliance-services/

Think you’re safe from out-of-state tax obligations? Think again. In this episode, we dive deep into the concept of tax nexus, what it is, how it's triggered, and why it’s one of the most overlooked compliance risks for businesses operating across state lines. Learn how remote work, e-commerce, and digital services might be creating unexpected tax liabilities, and what steps you can take to stay ahead of the curve.About Our GuestJeff Dorris, CPA, is a Partner who leads our specialty tax practice and specializes in consulting and advisory services in all aspects of state taxation, including income, franchise, and sales and use tax. About Our HostBrent Ullrich is a Partner with Mauldin & Jenkins, LLC, with over 15 years of experience in many areas of taxation and industries, most notably in healthcare, real estate, private equity, technology and professional services. He also serves as the Firm’s Tax Strategy and Research Leader, which offers technical guidance and identifies planning opportunities for the firm to support clients on complex issues across a range of technical tax areas.Learn more about our Specialty Taxation services here: https://www.mjcpa.com/services/consulting-advisory-services/specialty-tax/

In this episode, we move beyond the buzzwords to explore what it truly means to build wealth with intention. Whether you are just starting your financial journey or looking to pivot your strategy, this conversation covers the critical roadmap you need.About Our GuestsDoug Moses is a Partner with over 25 years of experience. He specializes in audits of governmental entities, primarily cities, counties, school districts, state agencies, and special purpose entities. Doug is also a member and current chair of the Firm’s Executive Committee, which governs the actions and direction of the Firm and serves as a member of the Firm’s Advisory Committee.Don is co-founder/owner of Guardian Wealth and acts as principal investment advisor. He is also the Vision & Behavioral Coach to Guardian’s client-family. Don’s effectiveness in helping clients reach their goals is powered by a successful career as the owner of a CPA firm that also specialized in financial planning and small business consulting.About Our HostBrandon Smith, CPA, is a Partner based in the Atlanta office and the Advisory Practice Leader. Learn more about our Tax & Estate Planning services here: https://www.mjcpa.com/industries/tax-and-estate-planning/

Year-end planning is more complex than ever. In this episode, our professionals break down the implications of the Big Beautiful Bill Act on your business, focusing on Federal, SALT (State and Local), and International Tax compliance.About Our GuestsJeff Dorris, CPA, is a Partner who leads our specialty tax practice and specializes in consulting and advisory services in all aspects of state taxation, including income, franchise, and sales and use tax. William Roberts is the International Tax Counsel with Mauldin & Jenkins, LLC. He has over 20 years of tax experience, primarily focused on International taxation. He specializes in directing and implementing diverse global outbound and inbound tax strategies, compliance and reporting initiatives, for large and middle-market companies.About Our HostBrent Ullrich is a Partner with Mauldin & Jenkins, LLC, with over 15 years of experience in many areas of taxation and industries, most notably in healthcare, real estate, private equity, technology and professional services. He also serves as the Firm’s Tax Strategy and Research Leader, which offers technical guidance and identifies planning opportunities for the firm to support clients on complex issues across a range of technical tax areas.Learn more about our International Taxation services here: https://www.mjcpa.com/services/tax/international-taxation/

In this episode, we sit down with members of our NIL Advisory Team to explore why comprehensive guidance is essential for student-athletes and their families. From clearing up common misconceptions to highlighting overlooked opportunities, we discuss how education, financial literacy, and long-term planning can make all the difference. Whether you're a parent, coach, or athlete, this conversation offers valuable insights into managing NIL the right way.About Our GuestDoug Moses is a Partner with over 25 years of experience. He specializes in audits of governmental entities, primarily cities, counties, school districts, state agencies, and special purpose entities. Doug is also a member and current chair of the Firm’s Executive Committee, which governs the actions and direction of the Firm and serves as a member of the Firm’s Advisory Committee.About Our HostBrent Ullrich is a Partner with Mauldin & Jenkins, LLC, with over 15 years of experience in many areas of taxation and industries, most notably in healthcare, real estate, private equity, technology and professional services. He also serves as the Firm’s Tax Strategy and Research Leader, which offers technical guidance and identifies planning opportunities for the firm to support clients on complex issues across a range of technical tax areas.Learn more about our NIL (Name, Image, and Likeness) services here: https://www.mjcpa.com/industries/nil-advisory-services/

In this episode, we break down the Cybersecurity Maturity Model Certification (CMMC) and its growing impact on government contractors and suppliers. Join us as we explore what the CMMC framework means for your organization, how to interpret its controls, estimate compliance costs, and integrate it into your financial and risk management strategy. Whether you're preparing for an assessment or just starting your compliance journey, this conversation is packed with practical insights and expert guidance.About Our GuestJameson Miller, CPA, CISA, CISSP, CCP, CCA, is a Partner in the Chattanooga, TN, office. He performs information systems regulatory compliance and framework reviews, System and Organization Controls (SOC 1, 2 and 3) Examinations, and cybersecurity assessments for information systems.About Our HostBrandon Smith, CPA, is a Partner based in the Atlanta office and the Advisory Practice Leader.Learn more about our Cybersecurity Maturity Model Certification (CMMC) services here: https://www.mjcpa.com/services/consulting-advisory-services/cybersecurity-maturity-model-certification-cmmc/ and other Technology services here: https://www.mjcpa.com/services/consulting-advisory-services/technology-services/

In this episode, Robert Stephens breaks down how to turn financial data into an actionable business strategy. This episode explores how to go beyond surface-level reports to uncover insights that drive smarter decisions, stronger forecasting, and long-term growth. Whether you're scaling a startup or leading an established business, this conversation will help you use your numbers as a tool, not just a report card.About Our GuestRobert Stephens, CPA, is a Partner with Mauldin & Jenkins in the Atlanta office. He brings 30+ years of fractional Chief Financial Officer experience to growing privately held businesses and non-profit organizations. About Our HostBrandon Smith, CPA, is a Partner based in the Atlanta office and the Advisory Practice Leader.Learn more about our Outsourced Accounting and CFO services here: https://www.mjcpa.com/services/consulting-advisory-services/outsourced-accounting-and-cfo-services/

In this episode, Brandon Smith and Aleisa Howell explore what the nonprofit world can teach us about redefining success beyond just revenue and margins. Aleisa shares surprising insights on how impact-focused metrics, mission-aligned financial strategies, and values-driven leadership can unlock sustainable business growth. Whether you're a business owner or leader, you'll walk away with practical ways to measure what truly matters without sacrificing profitability.About Our GuestAleisa Howell is a Partner with Mauldin & Jenkins, LLC, who specializes in the not-for-profit and governmental practice. She serves on the Georgia Society of CPA's Not-For-Profit Task Force and as a technical reviewer and committee member for the National Government Finance Officers Association (GFOA) in the CAFR certificate of excellence in financial reporting program.About Our HostBrandon Smith, CPA, is a Partner based in the Atlanta office and the Advisory Practice Leader.Learn more about our Nonprofit services here: https://www.mjcpa.com/industries/nonprofits/

Explore how evolving tax laws, cutting-edge AI, and a modernizing IRS are transforming business strategy. "Beyond the Return" goes past compliance to uncover the tools, trends, and insights shaping the future of finance and decision-making—including the sweeping implications of The One Big Beautiful Bill Act.About Our GuestBrent Ullrich is a Partner with Mauldin & Jenkins, LLC, with over 15 years of experience in many areas of taxation and industries, most notably in healthcare, real estate, private equity, technology and professional services. He also serves as the Firm’s Tax Strategy and Research Leader, which offers technical guidance and identifies planning opportunities for the firm to support clients on complex issues across a range of technical tax areas.About Our HostBrandon Smith, CPA, is a Partner based in the Atlanta office and the Advisory Practice Leader.Learn more about our Strategic Tax services here: https://www.mjcpa.com/services/consulting-advisory-services/strategic-tax-services/

Uncertainty isn’t just a threat, it’s an opportunity. In this episode, we explore how business leaders turn risk into strategic advantage, with practical insights on navigating change, uncovering hidden value, and building resilience.About Our GuestCraig Carter is a director with Mauldin & Jenkins, LLC. Craig is a business leader and advisor with 39+ years of experience, most recently leading Internal Audit Executive Services (IAES) to help organizations strengthen risk coverage and internal audit effectiveness.About Our HostBrandon Smith, CPA, is a Partner based in the Atlanta office and the Advisory Practice Leader.Learn more about our Internal Audit services here: https://www.mjcpa.com/services/consulting-advisory-services/internal-audit/ and Strategic Planning Services here: https://www.mjcpa.com/services/consulting-advisory-services/strategic-planning-business-plans/

In this episode, we get a glimpse into the world of state and local taxes, breaking down the key concepts that every business owner and taxpayer should understand. From navigating nexus and determining tax obligations to leveraging tax credits and incentives, we cover it all.About Our GuestJeff Dorris, CPA, is a Partner who leads our specialty tax practice and specializes in consulting and advisory services in all aspects of state taxation, including income, franchise, and sales and use tax.About Our HostBrandon Smith, CPA, is a Partner based in the Atlanta office and the Advisory Practice Leader.Learn more about our tax consulting & advisory services here: https://www.mjcpa.com/services/tax/tax-consulting-advisory-services/ and specialty tax services here: https://www.mjcpa.com/services/consulting-advisory-services/specialty-tax/

How do emerging technologies impact cybersecurity? In this episode, we’ll explore the risks organizations face and share expert insights on minimizing exposure, strengthening defenses, and staying ahead in today’s digital world.About Our GuestsJameson Miller, CPA, CISA, CISSP, CCP, CCA, is a Partner in the Chattanooga, TN, office and has been with the Firm since 2006. He has experience performing information systems regulatory compliance and framework reviews, System and Organization Controls (SOC 1, 2 and 3) Examinations, and cybersecurity assessments for information systems.Jon D. Hightower, CCSFP, CHQP, CISA, CRISC, CIPT, and FAIR, is a Director in the Raleigh, NC, office. He has experience performing information systems regulatory compliance and framework reviews, SSAE 21 System and Organization Controls (SOC) Reporting, and Technical audits and cybersecurity assessments for information systems.About Our HostBrandon Smith, CPA, is a Partner based in the Atlanta office and the Advisory Practice Leader.Learn more about our cybersecurity examination services here: https://www.mjcpa.com/services/consulting-advisory-services/link-pageit-cybersecurity/ and SOC reporting services here: https://www.mjcpa.com/services/consulting-advisory-services/system-and-organization-controls-soc-reporting/

In this episode, we’ll uncover the advantages of outsourced accounting services. Hear from industry experts about how these solutions can lead to improved financial decision-making and drive operational efficiency.About Our GuestRobert Stephens, CPA, is a Partner with Mauldin & Jenkins in the Atlanta office. He brings 30+ years of fractional Chief Financial Officer experience to growing privately held businesses and non-profit organizations. About Our HostBrandon Smith, CPA, is a Partner based in the Atlanta office and the Advisory Practice Leader.Learn more about our Outsourced Accounting and CFO Services here: https://www.mjcpa.com/services/consulting-advisory-services/outsourced-accounting-and-cfo-services/