2 CPAs & The Mic

What really makes a great first impression in business and why do so many professionals get it wrong without realizing it? In this episode of 2 CPAs and The Mic, Jeff Frable and Sara Mays sit down with etiquette expert Rachel Wagner to break down modern business etiquette for today's entrepreneurs, students, and professionals.  With nearly 20 years of experience, Rachel delivers clear, actionable advice on everything from confident handshakes and polished emails to virtual meeting etiquette, networking, dining dos and don'ts (including who pays), business cards, professional dress, and the impact of handwritten thank-you notes. Her core message is simple: etiquette isn't about perfection, but about awareness, respect, and making others feel valued. Whether you're early in your career, leading a team, or mentoring the next generation, this conversation is packed with actionable tips to help you avoid common faux pas, elevate your professional presence, and be remembered for all the right reasons.

In this week's episode of 2 CPAs & The Mic, Jeff Frable and Sara Mays welcome Lisa Nichols, author, podcast host, CEO, and co-founder of Technology Partners.  Together, they explore Lisa's 32-year journey of building a people-first IT firm alongside her husband, culminating in an impressive Net Promoter Score of 100. The conversation becomes personal as Lisa shares how her daughter Allie, who has Down syndrome, has been her greatest teacher. Drawing from her book Something Extra, Lisa explains how life's challenges inspire powerful leadership lessons rooted in humility, vulnerability, and hope. This episode reminds us that the qualities of great leaders are shaped by experiences forged beyond the balance sheet. 

April 15th may have passed, but entrepreneurs have new opportunities to build on their success. In this episode of 2 CPAs & The Mic, CCK Strategies partners Jeff Frable and Sara Mays discuss what business owners should consider after the April 15th deadline.  To keep things practical (and a little spicy), they introduce the CHILI framework, a simple, memorable approach to proactive tax strategy: Choosing the right entity Harnessing deductions Investing intentionally Leveraging time and resources Integrating a proactive team Jeff and Sara cover everything from choosing your business structure and bonus depreciation to home office rules, what counts as a meal versus entertainment, and the latest tax law changes coming up.  They make these tricky topics easy to understand, practical, and packed with real-life tips you can use.  Along the way, they share what they've learned from working with entrepreneurs and business leaders.   They also chat openly about the mistakes they see entrepreneurs make all the time, such as waiting too long to act, ignoring IRS notices, or trying to handle complex tax issues on their own.  Plus, they get real about what AI can and can't do, and why having a good professional team in your corner is more important than ever.  If any of this sounds familiar, you're not alone.  If you've ever been caught off guard by a tax bill, puzzled by some deduction advice you saw online, or wondered how to get ahead instead of just reacting, this episode is for you.  This episode will help you reset after 4/15, connect the dots, and feel more confident moving forward.

What's the real difference between branding and marketing—and why does it matter more than ever? In this episode, Jeff Frable and Sara Mays sit down with Jessica Lowe-Betts with Schnake Turnbo Frank to unpack how branding is less about logos and more about lived experience. Drawing from CCK Strategies' own brand identity journey during its transition to second generation leadership, Jessica shares why feedback is a gift, how communication gaps are often mistaken for process problems, and what every organization should ask itself about legacy, culture, and reputation. If you're leading a firm through growth or change, this conversation will help you think differently about who you are—and how the world experiences you.

Mikey Manghum, VP and Financial Advisor at Regent Private Wealth, joins the podcast to unpack a powerful journey shaped by sports, mentorship, and purpose. From growing up overseas, playing Division 1 basketball to building a career centered on redeeming the narrative around money, Mikey shares how mindset, discipline, and calling have guided every chapter of his life. Mikey dives deep into why mindset is the foundation of success, how mentorship accelerates growth, and what it really looks like to balance ambition with being a present husband and father. He also challenges listeners to rethink money, not as a source of stress, but as an opportunity for clarity, confidence, and ministry. This conversation is for professionals, former athletes, and working parents who want to succeed at work without losing sight of what matters most at home.

In this episode, CCK Strategies talent acquisition leaders Kusumika Ganguly and Carolyn McGuire share what they're truly listening for when interviewing experienced professionals, interns, and new graduates. They break down why coachability matters, how to clearly communicate your "why," and what helps candidates stand out beyond their resumes. Kusumika and Carolyn also debunk common recruiting myths — including the belief that applications go unread. Whether you're considering a career move, preparing for interviews, or building a team that lasts, this conversation is a reminder that great recruiting is about people and culture — not just filling roles.

Josh Juarez joins Jeff Frable on the mic to share how a college side hustle became one of Tulsa's favorite summer traditions. He discusses his entrepreneurial journey, building snow cone shacks across Tulsa, and fostering a workplace culture that keeps teens returning each year. The conversation explores passing the leadership baton to family, and his latest venture—a year-round community hangout centered on food, coffee, and pickleball. Josh also reflects on risk, mentorship, and his mission to create lasting spaces for Tulsa.

Michael Brody-Waite shares how his journey through addiction and recovery became the foundation for building a high‑growth company—and why he believes he's successful because of recovery, not despite it. He breaks down three leadership principles that matter in any high‑pressure profession: rigorous authenticity, surrendering the outcome, and doing uncomfortable work. Whether you're leading a team, a business, or just yourself, this episode offers a refreshing perspective on leadership and the habits that help people grow under pressure.

What if sustainability wasn't a cost—but a competitive advantage? On this episode of 2 CPAs & The Mic, Jeff Frable and Sara Mays talk with teammate Lindsey Barbour about how business sustainability goes far beyond recycling bins and feel‑good messaging. Using the people, profit, planet approach, Lindsey shows how small and mid-sized businesses can lower operating costs, improve employee retention, and build a stronger brand in the process. She also shares easy "first steps" owners can implement immediately—without a big budget or a full-time sustainability team. Bottom line: sustainability isn't fluff. It's smart business—with a spreadsheet to prove it.

In this episode of 2 CPAs & The Mic, we sit down with Cory Hatch, Academy Director at Ark Financial, for a powerful conversation about what happens when professional success doesn't translate to peace at home. Cory shares his personal turning point, career setbacks, a 120-pound transformation, rebuilding his marriage, and how his journey has shaped his present mission. Cory introduces the idea of a "family office" not as a place for the ultra-wealthy, but as an operating system for running the business of your family with the same intentionality you bring to your company. You'll learn why financial progress requires leadership, strategy, and execution and why many entrepreneurs unknowingly outsource the wrong thing.  Whether you're a business owner or an advisor, this episode provides a practical framework to move from uncertainty to clarity, align net worth and structure, and lead your family more intentionally, without trying to do it alone.

What does "assurance" really mean and why does it matter to your business? On this episode of 2 CPAs & The Mic, Jeff Frable and Sara Mays sit down with Haley Legg, Director of Assurance at CCK Strategies, to decipher audits, reviews, compilations, and the growing importance of SOC examinations. Haley explains why an audit isn't always the right answer and how SOC reports have become a must‑have trust signal in today's digital economy. For business owners, the takeaway is clear: SOC exams aren't just about checking a box—they're a strategic tool for building trust, winning and retaining clients, and standing out during vendor reviews and M&A due diligence.

In this episode of 2 CPAs & The Mic, Jeff Frable and Sara Mays sit down with entrepreneur Lisa Riley for a candid, high-energy conversation about what it really takes to build and lead a business through chaos. From oil-and-gas trade floors to scaling three Pinot's Palette studios, Lisa shares hard-earned lessons on leadership, cash flow reality, outsourcing your weaknesses, customer experience, health shocks, and crisis pivots—plus how saying "yes" once turned her into a professional food stylist. Real-world leadership. Zero fluff. Built for business owners.

Brand is far more than a logo—it's the feeling people carry with them. In this episode of 2 CPAs & The Mic, Johnie Hampton joins our hosts and breaks down the difference between brand and marketing. He gives an inside look at his team's collaborative creative process and explains why a humble, people‑first culture consistently outperforms even the best strategies. We also dig into AI as a true copilot—great for research and possibilities but still needing human craft and judgment. Johnie shares his approach to stewarding talent, celebrating employees and their families, mentoring the next generation, and leading with purpose. No matter your role—firm leader, team manager, or "marketer on the side"—you'll walk away with practical insight on strengthening your brand, supporting your people, and communicating with authenticity.

We're back—and grateful. In the season 2 kickoff of 2 CPAs & The Mic, Jeff Frable, Sara Mays & Kristie Porter reflect on growth, vulnerability, and what it means to serve people well. You'll hear about the moments that stretched us in season 1 and the vision driving season 2: connection over complexity, conversation over jargon, and practical guidance you can use today. We preview topics like financial planning, M&A, SOC audits, marketing, and wellness—and wrap with a fun rapid‑fire round. Thanks for listening, sharing, and building this community with us.

Thirty episodes later, we're closing the books on Season 1!  Join Jeff, Sara and Kristie as they celebrate the journey from "let's try this" to a full-blown podcast with loyal listeners. In this episode, we share behind-the-scenes stories, favorite moments, and a major life update that will make you smile. Plus, we reveal what's next for Season 2—fresh topics, exciting guests, and a new cadence to keep things timely. If you've ever wondered what makes CPAs human (and hilarious), this is the perfect episode to binge before January 15th when Season 2 drops!

In this episode of 2 CPAs and The Mic, hosts Jeff Frable and Sara Mays sit down with Dewan Chowdhury, Partner at CCK Strategies, for a deep dive into the world of estate planning. From defining what an estate truly is to navigating the complexities of wills, trusts, and tax strategies, Dewan breaks down the essentials with clarity and insight. Whether you're just starting your estate plan or revisiting it after years, this episode is your roadmap to doing it right.

In episode 28 of 2 CPAs & The Mic, hosts Jeff Frable and Sara Mays unpack the power of year-end tax planning. Learn how proactive strategy can eliminate costly surprises, improve cash flow, and turn tax season into a time for smart decision-making. From timing income and expenses to leveraging bonus depreciation and reviewing your business structure, this episode is packed with practical insights and real-world examples.

What happens when leadership steps away from the spotlight and focuses entirely on empowering the team behind the scenes? In this episode of 2 CPAs & The Mic, Jeff and Sara sit down with Belinda Jordan, Tax Division Leader at CCK Strategies, to explore her unconventional, non-client-facing leadership role. From her Big Four beginnings to leading a 60+ person tax team across geographies, Belinda shares how she drives performance through proactive management, data-driven decision-making, and a culture of direct, kind feedback. Whether you're a business owner, executive, or aspiring leader, this episode offers a masterclass in people-first leadership that scales.

In episode 26 of 2 CPAs & The Mic, Jeff and Sara chat with seasoned realtor, Caroline Gorinsky-Huesler, who shares her inspiring journey from Switzerland to relocation expert in Tulsa. Learn how international experience, cultural empathy, and strategic networking can turn real estate into a powerful business tool. Whether you're a business owner navigating employee moves, a professional exploring Tulsa's market trends, or simply someone who loves a great success story—this episode is for you!

When Hurricane Helene unleashed unprecedented flooding on Asheville, NC, the city faced total communication blackout and economic devastation. In this powerful episode, hosts Jeff Frable and Sara Mays sit down with Marcus Kirkman, Business Inclusion Manager and retired Navy veteran, to share how Asheville responded, recovered, and rebuilt. Kirkman shares behind-the-scenes insights into the city's emergency planning, the limits of FEMA support, and the critical role of community and business neighbors as first responders. From contingency plans that couldn't predict Helene to the urgent need for economic diversification, this episode is a must-listen for business leaders, city planners, and anyone invested in resilience.

In episode 24 of 2 CPAs & The Mic, hosts Jeff Frable and Sara Mays sit down with Curtis Olson, CCK Strategies' resident cybersecurity expert, to unpack the real-world risks facing today's businesses. From phishing and ransomware to AI-driven scams, Curtis shares eye-opening stats and practical strategies to protect your company. Learn why cybersecurity starts with leadership, how to build a culture of awareness, and what steps you can take today to safeguard your operations, reputation, and bottom line.

In episode 23 of 2 CPAs & The Mic, hosts Jeff Frable and Sara Mays sit down with Ashley Plyushko, Executive Director of the Oklahoma Accountancy Board (OAB), and John Curzon, Vice Chair of the OAB and founding partner of CCK Strategies. Together, they unpack the mission and mechanics of the OAB, its national influence through NASBA, and the evolving challenges facing the accounting profession—from the CPA pipeline shortage to the rise of private equity ownership in firms.   Ashley & John share insight into the board's enforcement process, the importance of ethical culture in firms, and how Oklahoma is leading the way in regulatory innovation.  Whether you're a CPA, a student considering the profession, or just curious about how public trust is protected in financial services, this episode offers a candid and compelling look behind the scenes of one of the country's most proactive accountancy boards.

In this inspiring episode of 2 CPAs & The Mic, we chat with Keira D'Amato - professional runner, entrepreneur, and mom of two - whose journey redefines athletic success. After nearly a decade away from elite running, Keira made a stunning comeback while building a real estate business and raising a family. She shares the mindset behind her return, the emotions of setting and losing a marathon record, and insights from her upcoming book Don't Call It a Comeback, which celebrates purpose over glory. Her reflections on failure, identity, and competition offer fresh inspiration for anyone chasing a second act.

In episode 21 of 2 CPAs & The Mic, we sit down with John Bundren, Director of Client Advisory Services (CAS) at CCK Strategies, to explore the evolution of accounting into a forward-thinking advisory model known as CAS 2.0. John shares how CAS has moved beyond traditional bookkeeping to become a strategic partnership that empowers business leaders to make smarter financial decisions. John breaks down the four-phase lifecycle of a (CAS) engagement—Discovery, Onboarding, Recurring Advisory, and Review—and explains how each phase builds value through structured communication and a deep understanding of the client's goals. He also highlights why strong relational skills are becoming increasingly vital in a tech-driven future, and why outsourcing CAS can be a more cost-effective and expertise-rich alternative to hiring in-house financial leadership. Whether you're a business owner wondering if your accountant is truly advising you, or a finance professional looking to elevate your practice, this episode offers a roadmap to the future of advisory services.

In episode 20 of 2 CPAs & The Mic, we sit down with Jim Hicks, CFO and COO of CCK Strategies for a candid conversation packed with insights every business owner needs. From global negotiations to multimillion-dollar acquisitions, Jim's career offers lessons on the real drivers of business success. Discover when to hire a CFO, how to structure your executive team, and why knowing how your business makes money is the key to growth. Whether you're scaling or just starting out, this episode is a masterclass in strategic leadership and building a company that lasts.

In episode 19 of 2 CPAs & The Mic, we sit down with Eric Gregg, founder of ClearlyRated, to explore how professional service firms can elevate client satisfaction using the Net Promoter Score (NPS). Eric breaks down the NPS system, shares insights from CCK Strategies' own experience, and explains why feedback—especially the tough kind—is a goldmine for growth. From the emotional impact of client responses to the role of technology and emotional intelligence, this episode offers practical strategies for turning feedback into loyalty. Tune in for actionable advice, industry trends, and a fresh perspective on what it means to truly serve your clients.

In episode 18 of 2 CPAs & The Mic, we sit down with Blake Postelwait, CPA, CVA, to discuss business valuation and the evolving landscape for professionals in public accounting. Blake shares his career journey from audit to industry and back, highlighting the "boomerang effect" that often draws individuals back to the cadence of firm life. You will gain insights into the valuation process, including key methodologies and the importance of mentorship in developing technical and leadership skills. Blake also opens up about his personal approach to work-life harmony, from morning workouts to intentional routines that keep him grounded. Whether you're a business owner curious about what your company is worth, or an entrepreneur navigating growth and leadership, this episode offers practical wisdom, memorable quotes, and a few surprises—including Blake's childhood dream of becoming a mailman.

What do you get when a love for sports collides with a passion for numbers? A game-changing approach to financial strategy for athletes and entertainers. In episode 17 of 2 CPAs & The Mic, Jeff and Sara are joined by teammate and fellow CCK Partner - Caleb Caldwell. Caleb has built a thriving niche serving high-profile clients—from college athletes navigating NIL deals to seasoned pros managing multi-stream income. You'll get an inside look at the unique tax challenges facing professional athletes and entertainers, the art of building trust with clients in the spotlight, and how a full-service financial model is helping them protect what they've earned and plan for what's next. From endorsement income and video game royalties to multi-state filings and long-term planning, this episode is packed with real-world insights and behind-the-scenes stories. If you're an athlete, entertainer, or advisor looking for a financial team that understands your world—this is your playbook. Tune in now.

In Episode 16 of 2 CPAs & The Mic, Jeff and Sara welcome a special guest, Clarence Fisher from Tulsa Internet Marketing Services. A trusted collaborator and friend of the show, Clarence offers creative and practical insights that our listeners are sure to appreciate. Clarence shares his journey from a 10-year career in radio to becoming a digital marketing expert and introduces his powerful R4 Framework—a system designed to create predictable, sustainable growth. From managing your Google Business Profile and building trust through reviews, to expanding visibility, maximizing customer lifetime value, and generating consistent referrals, Clarence breaks it all down with clarity and enthusiasm. The conversation dives into practical, real-world marketing strategies for entrepreneurial business owners ready to take their business to the next level.

In Episode 15 of 2 CPAs & The Mic, hosts Jeff Frable and Sara Mays chat with BreAnne Peters, Tax Team Leader at CCK Strategies, about her unexpected leap from clarinet performance major to tax professional. With her vibrant personality and unapologetically authentic style, BreAnne breaks the mold of the "typical accountant." This episode dives into her seven-year journey at CCK, her choice to pursue EA certification over CPA, her passion for mentoring, and her love for Harry Styles—including 13 concerts and a whirlwind trip to Italy.   BreAnne's story is a refreshing reminder that career paths don't have to be linear to be successful. This episode is a must-listen for anyone navigating career pivots, challenging stereotypes, or just looking for a dose of authenticity in the world of tax and business.

In this bonus episode of 2 CPAs & The Mic, hosts Jeff Frable and Sara Mays break down the newly signed "One Big Beautiful Bill" (OBBB) tax legislation, signed into law on July 4th. Described as a "Super Bowl" moment for tax professionals, this episode offers a high-level overview of the sweeping changes—without diving into the political weeds. Jeff and Sara discuss the tax implications, especially the permanence of several key provisions from the 2017 Tax Cuts and Jobs Act (TCJA).  They also outline what's ahead: extended provisions for individuals, new individual provisions, and business-related updates. Whether you're a business owner, CPA, tax enthusiast, or just curious about what this bill means for your bottom line, this episode sets the stage for what's next in tax policy.

In episode 14 of 2 CPAs & The Mic, hosts Jeff Frable and Sara Mays welcome Matt Granados, productivity coach and founder of Life Pulse. What began as a personal system Matt developed to manage his own life has since evolved into a transformative framework adopted by major corporations seeking to align organizational goals with employees' personal aspirations. In this insightful conversation, Matt discusses why many individuals operate below their full potential and offers practical strategies to overcome both personal and professional barriers. He explores the critical distinction between being "nice" and being "kind" in leadership, shares methods for achieving success across all areas of life without unnecessary sacrifice, and introduces actionable tools for busy professionals who want to accomplish more without burning out. Whether you're feeling stuck, overwhelmed, or simply striving for a more intentional way to live and lead, this episode provides a powerful framework to help you elevate your performance and fulfillment.

In episode 13 of 2 CPAs & The Mic, Jeff Frable and Sara Mays are joined by their CCK partner, IRS-savvy, Luann Rinowski, for a candid and insightful conversation about navigating the world of IRS representation. Luann shares how she stumbled into her niche—handling IRS audit. Her secret? Treating IRS agents like real people (with a healthy dose of professionalism).  Luann's authentic blend of genuine care for people and unwavering professionalism has been the foundation of her successful career. The group dives into: Why clients typically receive IRS notices The golden rule of audits Why documentation is your best friend Why the way you engage - and your representation - can make a difference with the IRS.  This episode is packed with practical wisdom and a few laughs. Don't miss it!

Starting a business is exciting.  Learn why selecting the right entity structure is important to ensure smooth operations and avoid any potential challenges down the road. In episode 12 of 2 CPAs & The Mic, hosts Jeff Frable and Sara Mays unpack the real-world implications of selecting a business entity. Whether you're a brand-new entrepreneur, a side-hustler earning passive income, or a seasoned owner scaling into new ventures, this episode offers the insight you didn't know you needed. The team dives into the pros and cons of sole proprietorships, LLCs, partnerships, and corporations—and they break down the concepts of legal protection, self-employment tax, "piercing the corporate veil," and what really happens when you mix friends with business. You'll also learn how income level, investor relationships, and future goals (like selling your company) play into choosing the right tax structure. Warning: you might want to grab a notepad for this one.

In episode 11 of "2 CPAs & The Mic," Jeff Frable and Sara Mays sit down with ORU's Athletic Director Tim Johnson to discuss how the introduction of NIL (Name, Image & Likeness) is changing the landscape of college athletics. Initially designed as a way for athletes to receive fair compensation, NIL has quickly evolved into what many now view as a form of "pay for play." This shift was driven by key legal cases such as the O'Bannon and Alston cases, and most recently, the House settlement, which introduced revenue sharing and allowed universities to manage NIL activities directly. Over the past few years, the scene has changed dramatically—from athletes receiving modest educational stipends to some now securing million-dollar deals. The new system has raised concerns, particularly for mid-major programs like ORU, which struggle to compete with the financial power of larger conferences. Additionally, young athletes often lack financial literacy, and the combination of NIL and the transfer portal has created a "free agency" atmosphere in college sports. Tim shares how ORU is adapting to these changes by creating educational programs to help student-athletes navigate NIL opportunities responsibly, teaching them financial literacy and tax implications. Despite the rapid changes and uncertainties, Johnson remains focused on preserving the true value of collegiate athletics—providing opportunities for education and personal development that extend far beyond financial compensation.

Borders become blurred in our connected world and small businesses can easily find themselves with international tax obligations without realizing it. Our digital-first economy has dramatically increased international exposure through online sales platforms, payment processors, and remote workforce arrangements. In episode 10 of "2 CPAs & The Mic," hosts Jeff Frable and Sara Mays are joined by fellow CCK partner Kaitlin Flinn to discuss how businesses can navigate international tax requirements including: foreign bank account reporting requirements (FBARs), tax treaty benefits, and compliance pitfalls. This insightful discussion provides practical guidance for identifying international tax obligations and working with qualified professionals to ensure compliance while avoiding substantial penalties.

In episode 9 of "2 CPAs & The Mic," hosts Jeff Frable and Sara Mays welcome fellow partner Kyna Leyva to discuss the reality of navigating a thriving family life and robust career. Kyna shares candid insights about how "work-life balance" is a misleading concept and how to think about "harmonizing" your whole life instead, the importance of setting realistic expectations and giving grace to yourself, how to be fully present whether at work or with family and the value of finding mentors who are a few steps ahead in your journey. Kyna emphasizes that no one "does it all" - sharing honest stories about 4:30am wake-ups, messy houses, and the importance of communication with both family and colleagues. This episode offers wisdom for parents at any stage as well as professionals seeking to integrate their personal and work lives more effectively.

From college basketball to $70 million development deals, Matt Mardis has seen and done it all in the world of commercial real estate.  In this enlightening and entertaining episode of 2 CPAs & The Mic, Jeff and Sara sit down with the seasoned broker and developer to explore the inner workings of CRE—from land acquisition and vertical planning to investor relationships and emerging trends. Matt unpacks the four core "food groups" of commercial real estate (retail, industrial, multifamily, and office), discusses the Tulsa market's unique growth story, and explains why site selection is both science, art, and relationships.  You will learn how capital, timing, and vision all converge to turn dirt into value, why Class A properties dominate the post-COVID era, and what's driving national migration into Oklahoma. Whether you're a real estate novice or an aspiring investor, this conversation delivers rich perspective with a side of real-world advice.

In episode 7 of "2 CPAs & The Mic," partners Jeff Frable and Sara Mays welcome Victoria Guerre, Director of Human Resources at CCK Strategies, for a candid and contemporary look at how HR is evolving in today's workplace. Victoria shares stories and insights that redefine what Human Resources means in a post-pandemic, multi-generational business world. The discussion dives into everything from remote work and hybrid flexibility to generational motivation, the importance of personal branding, and how culture and expectations are being rewritten.  Whether you're a business owner, HR professional, or team member looking to understand the evolving dynamics of work, this conversation offers insights that are equal parts practical and inspiring.

Doing your own taxes may seem like a smart way to save money—but it could be costing you more than you think. In episode 6 of "Two CPAs & the Mic," hosts Jeff Frable and Sara Mays sit down with Jordan Tudor to unpack the hidden costs of DIY tax prep, from missed deductions and penalties to costly setup mistakes for new businesses. We also share examples of how working with a CPA actually pays for itself in peace of mind and long-term savings. If you're on the fence, this episode may be the nudge you need.

When rates rise, stress follows - and for small business owners, that can spell trouble. So, who's in your corner when things get tough?  In this episode, Jeff and Sara sit down with Sean Kouplen, CEO and Chairman of Regent Bank, to unpack what rising interest rates, inflation, and regulatory shifts mean for small businesses - and why the relationship you have with your bank could make or break you in uncertain times.  From navigating post-COVID economic realities to building a culture where people feel loved (yes, even at a bank), Sean shares the mindset, systems, and core values that drive one of the region's most distinctive financial institutions.  If you're a business owner, banker, or CPA looking for more than just transactional advice, this episode is for you.

In this episode, Jeff and Sara sit down with CCK partner Aaron Spoon to discuss the real concerns facing business decision-makers. They cover a range of topics, including rising interest rates, workforce challenges, estate planning, and bonus depreciation. The conversation explores how leading business owners are navigating uncertainty and making decisions calmly, emphasizing that taxes should not be the primary reason for any strategic move.  Whether you're leading a company or advising one, this open and honest discussion offers practical insights on how to remain grounded, adaptable, and focused on what truly matters.

In Episode 2 of "Two CPA's in the Mic," hosts Jeff Fable and Sara Mays dive into the world of the CPA exam with their guest, Keith Wigner. They chat about how the exam has changed over the years and share their own experiences with the preparation journey. Keith, who has a pretty unique path to becoming a CPA, opens up about his background and the challenges he faced along the way. The trio discusses their study strategies and the emotional ups and downs of tackling the exam, stressing how important it is to have a solid support system of family and friends. They each reflect on what passing the CPA exam means to them, highlighting it as a big personal win after all their hard work. The episode wraps up with some encouraging words for anyone thinking about taking the CPA exam, reminding listeners that resilience and community support are key to success. Want to connect with us? Email us at [email protected]. New episodes drop every Thursday - subscribe now!

Welcome to the debut episode of 2 CPAs and The Mic! In this debut episode, Jeff Frable and Sara Mays uncover what makes CCK Strategies different from your typical CPA firm. Spoiler alert: it's not all spreadsheets and tax codes!  Jeff and Sara share their journeys into the CPA world, the firm's untraditional culture, and why this podcast exists - to make business tax planning, financial strategy, and accounting insights unintimidating and accessible. Expect 80s and 90s pop culture references, plenty of laughs, and real-world business advice for entrepreneurs, successful business owners, and future accounting professionals looking for a fresh take on the profession.  Want to connect with us? Email us at [email protected]. Plus, if you are our first listener to email, you'll score a CCK-branded Tumblr signed by the hosts!  First listener who is not part of the CCK Team!    New episodes drop every Thursday - subscribe now! 

In Episode 3 of 2 CPAs and the Mic, hosts Jeff Frable and Sara Mays dive into the topic of CliftonStrengths , exploring what it is and how it can be utilized in business to enhance productivity, profitability, and team interactions. They are joined by Kristie Porter, a long-time team member at CCK, who shares her extensive experience and insights on the subject. Kristie discusses her diverse role at the firm, her journey with CliftonStrengths®, and how it has been integrated into CCK's culture to foster individual strengths and improve team dynamics. The conversation highlights the importance of understanding and leveraging personal strengths for business success and offers practical advice for implementing CliftonStrengths® in any organization. Want to connect with us? Email us at [email protected]. New episodes drop every Thursday - subscribe now!