The Growth Minded Accountant

PODCAST · business

The Growth Minded Accountant

Hosted by Lee Reams II and CountingWorks PRO, "The Growth Minded Accountant" is your go-to podcast for independent tax and accounting pros ready to level up. We’re here to show you how AI, digital marketing, and cutting-edge tools — the kind that only the big guys had access to — can help you save time, win new clients, and keep your practice thriving. From leveraging AI agents to boosting ROI on every client interaction, we cover it all. Tune in to stay sharp, learn strategies that work, and make sure you’re always one step ahead. The playing field just got a lot more level — let’s go!

  1. 117

    How Accounting Firms Unlock 2–5X More Revenue From Existing Clients

    Most tax and accounting firms think growth comes from more clients.More referrals.More SEO.More tax returns.More volume.But what if the biggest growth opportunity is already sitting inside the clients you already serve?In this episode of The Growth Minded Accountant, Lee Reams and Rebekah Barton break down why the future of accounting firms is shifting from reactive tax preparation toward proactive tax advisory, year-round strategy, and deeper client relationships.Using a powerful “dentist office” analogy, they explore why most firms never build the “second room” — the space where strategic conversations, tax planning, advisory services, and higher-value relationships actually happen.This episode covers: The difference between tax preparation and tax advisory  How firms can unlock 2–5X more revenue from existing clients  Why most firms miss advisory opportunities already inside their database  The advisory signals accountants should be watching for  How to talk about advisory without sounding salesy  Why client nurture changes retention and profitability  The role of AI and automation in scaling advisory services  How modern firms are becoming more proactive and less reactive If you’ve ever felt like your firm is working harder every year just to maintain growth, this episode will completely reframe how you think about revenue, relationships, and the future of accounting.Because the firms that win won’t just process returns faster.They’ll build the second room. Request a free Growth & Advisory Assessment to see where hidden opportunities may already exist inside your client base.👉 Link: ttps://www.countingworkspro.com/free-firm-growth-breakdown

  2. 116

    Why Your Accounting Firm’s Old Playbook Isn’t Working Anymore

    Most accounting firms aren’t stuck because they’re not working hard enough.They’re stuck because their model hasn’t caught up to the opportunity.In this episode, Lee Reams breaks down why the traditional compliance-first approach is limiting growth—and how firms can start unlocking more value from the clients they already have.Lee walks through a real-world example, explain why advisory services often go underpriced, and share how better systems, communication, and AI can help firms shift from reactive work to proactive strategy.If you’ve ever felt like your firm should be further ahead than it is… this episode will hit home.Are you ready to change your firm trajectory? Take our free firm assessment that includes a personalized firm roadmap for a future you. Link: https://www.countingworkspro.com/free-firm-growth-breakdown

  3. 115

    AI Isn’t a Tool. It’s Your Next Hire

    The tax and accounting industry doesn’t have an AI problem.It has a hiring problem.In this episode of The Growth Minded Accountant, Lee Reams II and Rebekah Barton unpack one of the biggest shifts happening in firms right now:AI isn’t just a tool—it’s a role.With fewer accountants entering the profession and client demand continuing to rise, the traditional growth model—hire more people—just isn’t working anymore.So what replaces it?In this episode, you’ll learn: Why most firms are using AI wrong (and why it’s not scaling)  The real downside of stacking multiple AI tools  How to think about AI as a team member, not a prompt  The hidden security risks firms are overlooking  What AI-driven search means for your firm’s visibility  Why “saving time” isn’t the goal—building capacity is A simple way to identify your first AI hireThis episode is a mindset shift.Because the firms that win over the next few years won’t be the ones using the most tools…They’ll be the ones building the smartest systems—where work gets done before they even log in.Final thought:Don’t ask, “What AI tool should I use?”Ask: 👉 “What role do I need next in my firm… and can AI do it first?”

  4. 114

    The ROI of First Impressions: Why Clients Decide in Seconds—and What It Means for Your Firm

    Tax season is over.Now comes the real question:What would you change before next year?Most firms think the answer is more staff, higher prices, or fewer clients.But in this episode of The Growth Minded Accountant, Lee Reams and Rebekah Barton break down a different—and often overlooked—lever for growth:Your firm’s first impression.Because before a prospect ever speaks to you…Before they understand your services…They’ve already decided: If they trust you  If you’re worth your fees  If they want to move forward In this episode, you’ll learn: The psychology behind how clients form instant judgments  Why positioning—not skill—drives pricing power  How first impressions impact conversion, referrals, and advisory growth  Real-world revenue scenarios tied to perception and trust  The 5-part “First Contact Stack” to improve how your firm shows up If you’re looking to attract better clients, increase fees, and build a more scalable firm—this is one of the highest-leverage places to start.Because the firms that win aren’t just better at tax.They’re better at trust.

  5. 113

    The Most Dangerous Week for an Accountant

    The week after April 15 is a trap. You’re exhausted. Your team is checked out. And every instinct you have is telling you to just move on and forget the chaos. But here’s the cold, hard truth: If you don’t capture the data while the pain is fresh, you are choosing to repeat it next year.In this episode of the Growth Minded Accountant, Lee Reams II and Rebekah Barton sit down for a "post-game" strategy session that every firm owner needs to hear before they head out on vacation.We’re walking you through a live, 5-step "Pain Audit" designed to help you stop being the bottleneck, identify the advisory revenue you’re currently giving away for free, and fix the one thing that will save you hundreds of hours next season.In this episode, we discuss:The Industry Burnout Reality: Why 99% of accountants are feeling it, and why it's not a "you" problem—it's a system problem.The Live Reset Exercise: A guided walkthrough to identify what broke, what repeated, and where you need to draw the line.The Bottleneck Truth: A candid look at where your firm’s growth is actually being slowed down by your own desk.Identifying "Hidden" Revenue: How to spot the advisory moments you missed in the heat of tax season.Positioning for Less Friction: Why your "best" clients aren't random, and how to find more of them.Don't let the exhaustion erase the lessons. Give us 20 minutes to help you ensure that the version of tax season you just finished is the hardest one you ever have to do again.

  6. 112

    Capture Advisory Insights Without Slowing Down Tax Season

    Every tax season, your clients tell you exactly what they need.They mention hiring plans.They’re thinking about selling assets.They say things like, “I wish I had known that sooner…”And in the moment, you recognize it:👉 That’s important. 👉 We should come back to that.But then the next client starts.The next return.The next fire to put out.And just like that… it’s gone.In this episode of The Growth Minded Accountant, Lee Reams II and Rebekah Barton break down one of the biggest missed opportunities inside modern firms:It’s not that you lack advisory insight.It’s that you’re not capturing it.What You’ll Take Away: Why valuable advisory opportunities disappear every tax season  What to actually listen for in client conversations  How to surface more opportunities without extending meetings  A simple framework to capture insights in seconds  How those insights turn into real revenue after tax season The Simple Rule:One sentence.One place.One tag.No new systems.No extra time.Just a better habit.Rebekah Barton also shares how these same client conversations aren’t just advisory opportunities—they’re your most valuable source of: Marketing messaging  Content ideas  Niche positioning  Growth strategy Because when you capture the language your clients actually use…you stop guessing—and start connecting.The Bigger Shift:You’re not creating more work during tax season.You’re capturing future revenue.Future impact.Future advisory relationships.Because advisory doesn’t start after tax season…It starts in the conversations you’re having right now.If you don’t capture it now, it won’t feel important later.And if it’s not important… it won’t happen.Connect with CountingWorks PRO:Learn how firms are turning everyday client conversations into scalable advisory systems with AI-powered tools like MAX.

  7. 111

    The Tax Season Diagnostic: What’s Broken (And Where AI Actually Helps)

    Tax season has a way of revealing the truth about your firm.The long hours, the constant client follow-ups, the repeated questions—it all starts to surface the same thought:“There has to be a better way to do this.”In this solo episode of The Growth Minded Accountant, Lee Reams breaks down why tax season isn’t the time to fix everything—it’s the time to see what’s actually broken.Because under pressure, your systems don’t hide.They fail.And when they fail, they show you exactly where the opportunity is.Lee walks through:Why tax season is your most honest operational stress testThe biggest inefficiencies holding firms back (and how to spot them)Where AI is delivering real value today—and where it falls shortWhy AI should be viewed as labor, not a decision-makerHow small firms can scale output without adding headcountYou’ll also get a practical framework to evaluate your firm across four critical areas:• Client onboarding• Data handling• Communication• ResearchIf you’re feeling the pressure of tax season, this episode will help you turn that pressure into a roadmap for smarter growth.Key insight: AI isn’t here to replace your expertise— it’s here to remove the work that doesn’t require it.

  8. 110

    The Secret to Being More Responsive Without Burning Out

    One of the most common complaints clients have about accounting firms isn’t about mistakes or pricing.It’s responsiveness.In this episode of Growth Minded Accountant, Lee Reams and Rebekah Barton explore why communication breakdowns happen in many tax and accounting firms—and how growth-minded firms design systems that allow them to stay responsive without burning out.Most accountants want to be responsive, but when every email, message, and request depends on the accountant personally responding, communication quickly becomes overwhelming—especially during tax season.Lee and Rebekah discuss how modern firms are solving this challenge by setting clear expectations, improving client communication, and implementing systems that make responsiveness scalable.In this episode, they cover:• Why communication is one of the top reasons clients leave their accountant• The difference between responsiveness and constant availability• How engagement letters, proposals, and onboarding shape client expectations• Why acknowledgment messages dramatically improve client experience• How technology and client portals reduce communication friction• How better systems help prevent scope creepWhen firms clearly communicate their process and build systems around client communication, responsiveness improves—and the firm gains back time and focus.The goal isn’t simply to respond faster.It’s to build a firm where responsiveness scales.Growth Minded Accountant is a podcast for tax and accounting professionals who want to build smarter firms, stronger client relationships, and scalable practices.Hosted by Lee Reams and Rebekah Barton, each episode explores practical strategies, modern systems, and mindset shifts shaping the future of the profession.

  9. 109

    Bridge Loans & SBA 504 Financing: How Advisors Help Clients Access Capital | Dave Manser

    Bridge loans, SBA 504 financing, and alternative lending solutions are becoming essential tools for small business owners who can't access traditional bank financing.In this episode of The Growth Minded Accountant, host Lee Reams sits down with Dave Manser, President & Chief Lending Officer at Business Loan Capital (BLC) to discuss how business owners are filling the growing capital gap and how advisors can help clients access financing faster.Traditional banks are approving fewer small business loans than ever before. Many entrepreneurs face long underwriting timelines, strict lending standards, or outright denials when trying to finance growth opportunities.Dave explains how bridge loans, SBA 504 financing, and hybrid lending structures can provide flexible solutions when timing, liquidity, or opportunity doesn't align with traditional bank processes.For tax and accounting professionals, this episode highlights the important role advisors can play in identifying financing opportunities and helping clients access capital at the right time.Lee and Dave discuss practical scenarios where accountants may recognize signals that a client could benefit from alternative financing, including property acquisitions, refinancing opportunities, and situations where equity is tied up in real estate.In This Episode• Why traditional bank lending for small businesses has tightened• What bank-alternative lending means and why it exists • How bridge loans help business owners act quickly on opportunities • When SBA 504 financing makes sense for commercial property purchases • Real-world examples where bridge financing saved deals • Financial signals accountants should watch for in client financials • How advisors can expand into capital advisory servicesAbout Dave ManserDave Manser is President and Chief Lending Officer at Business Loan Capital (BLC), a direct lender providing flexible financing solutions for business owners and commercial real estate borrowers.BLC specializes in:• Short-term bridge loans • SBA 504 financing • Conventional commercial loans • Hybrid capital structuresTheir lending model focuses on speed, transparency, and flexible deal structures, often helping borrowers move forward when traditional financing options fall short.Learn more:https://www.countingworkspro.com/partner-marketplaceAbout the ShowThe Growth Minded Accountant explores the strategies, technologies, and advisory opportunities helping tax and accounting professionals grow their firms and deliver more value to clients.Hosted by Lee Reams, CEO of CountingWorks PRO.

  10. 108

    The 3 Tax Season Signals That Reveal Your Firm’s Next Growth Opportunity

    Tax season isn’t just the busiest time of year for accountants.It’s also one of the most revealing.In this micro-episode of The Growth Minded Accountant, Lee Reams and Rebekah Barton break down the three signals that show up repeatedly in client conversations during tax season—and what those signals reveal about the future growth of your firm.They call them the SUC Signals:Surprise – “I wish I had known that earlier.” Urgency – “I need this done by Friday.” Confusion – “Why do I owe so much?”These phrases aren’t just client frustrations. They’re signals about how your firm is positioned, how your systems operate, and where your next growth opportunity may be hiding.In this short episode, you’ll learn:• Why tax season feedback is one of the best diagnostic tools for your firm • How “surprise” reveals missed tax planning opportunities • Why urgency often signals a positioning problem • How confusion points to gaps in client education and communication • Simple changes firms can make to reduce tax season chaos and grow advisory servicesGrowth minded firms don’t just push through tax season.They listen to it.Because the conversations you’re having right now are telling you exactly where your firm can grow next.

  11. 107

    Micro Episode #3: Stop Walking Into Tax Meetings Unprepared (5-Minute AI Prep)

    Tax season doesn’t excuse bad preparation.In this solo micro-episode of The Growth Minded Accountant, Lee Reams shares a practical 5-minute AI workflow to help you walk into every client interview informed, confident, and positioned as an advisor — even during your busiest stretch of tax season.Most accountants don’t feel underprepared because they don’t care.They feel underprepared because they’re overloaded.Back-to-back meetings.No time to reread prior returns.No mental space to spot planning opportunities.In this episode, Lee explains:• Why “directional awareness” matters more than perfect prep• How to use AI as a thinking partner — not a replacement• A simple prompt you can use to summarize prior-year returns and financials• How to generate thoughtful client questions in minutes• Why better prep leads to better positioning as an advisorThis isn’t about outsourcing tax advice to AI.It’s about using technology to show up sharper, ask better questions, and elevate the client experience.Five minutes of prep can change the tone of the entire meeting.Advisors don’t memorize clients.They prepare for them.—Host: Lee ReamsPodcast: The Growth Minded AccountantTopic: AI for accountants, tax season efficiency, client interview preparation

  12. 106

    The One Question That Turns Tax Prep Into Advisory Revenue

    There’s a moment at the end of every tax interview that most firms rush through.And it’s quietly costing them six figures a year.In this episode of The Growth-Minded Accountant, Lee Reams shares a simple but powerful framework — the Post-Tax Bridge — that helps tax and accounting firms turn compliance conversations into advisory opportunities without selling, pitching, or slowing down tax season.You’ll learn:• Why most firms unintentionally close advisory doors in March • The exact question to ask that creates continuity instead of closure • How to sequence the conversation so the proposal comes after tax season • The psychology behind pre-seeding advisory through your marketing • How small behavioral shifts during tax interviews compound into meaningful revenueThis episode is for firm owners who want to grow beyond compliance — not by adding pressure, but by building systems.Tax season isn’t just filing season.It’s pipeline season.If you’re building an advisory-forward accounting firm, this is a conversation you’ll want your entire team to hear.

  13. 105

    The Tax Interview Mistake That Keeps You Stuck in Compliance

    Most firms treat the tax interview like data collection.The smartest firms treat it like positioning.In this micro episode of The Growth Minded Accountant, Lee breaks down a simple shift that can fundamentally change how clients see you. Not after tax season. Not when you launch a new advisory package. But in the first few minutes of your tax interview.Clients decide what you are very quickly. If the conversation starts with forms, documents, and checklists, you are framed as a processor. If it starts with context, change, and forward-looking questions, you are framed as an advisor.Same tax return. Completely different perceived value.In this episode, you will learn:• Why the opening minutes of the tax interview matter more than you think • The subtle mistake that keeps firms stuck in compliance positioning • The simple three-minute shift that elevates the entire client relationship • How consistent messaging through blogs, newsletters, and social reinforces your advisory roleAdvisory is not a service you sell after April 15.It is a narrative you repeat everywhere.If you want to move from compliance to advisory, this is where it starts.The Growth Minded Accountant is for firm owners who want to build firms that scale smarter, position stronger, and evolve beyond compliance.Subscribe for weekly conversations on growth, advisory strategy, positioning, and building a firm that runs differently.

  14. 104

    Capital Advisory for Accountants: How Smart Businesses Actually Fund Growth

    Capital decisions are some of the most important—and irreversible—choices a business owner will ever make. Yet many tax and accounting professionals don’t get pulled into the conversation until after the deal is already done.In this episode of The Growth Minded Accountant, we break down how small and mid-sized businesses actually access capital today—and why accountants are uniquely positioned to guide these decisions before funding is locked in.Host Lee Reams is joined by Sven Nelson, Founder & Owner of Aevi Business Capital, who brings over 20 years of experience in commercial finance. Sven shares how small business lending has evolved, why traditional banks leave so many healthy businesses behind, and where brokers fit into the modern capital landscape.You’ll learn:Why “I need a loan” means very different things todayThe real differences between term loans, lines of credit, SBA loans, and alternative fundingWhen higher-cost capital can make sense—and when it creates long-term riskCommon mistakes business owners make before applying for fundingWhy payment structure often matters more than interest rateWhere accountants fit into capital advisory without becoming lendersHow early involvement helps protect cash flow, tax efficiency, and exit optionsThis episode is designed for growth minded accountants, advisory-focused firms, and business owners who want a clearer understanding of capital—without the hype or confusion.🔗 Resources MentionedBecome an Aevi Business Capital Partner https://www.countingworkspro.com/part...Take a Tour of the Capital Advisory Playbook https://www.countingworkspro.com/demoIf capital conversations are already happening with your clients—or happening without you—this episode will help you understand where you belong in the process and how to add meaningful advisory value.🎙️ Thanks for listening to The Growth Minded Accountant.

  15. 103

    Positioning Gets You Found. Relatability Gets You Chosen.

    In this episode of The Growth Minded Accountant, host Lee Reams II is joined by Rebekah Barton, Chief Visibility Officer, for a timely conversation on what actually drives firm growth in 2026—and why positioning alone is no longer enough.Most tax and accounting firms understand positioning. They’ve defined their services, clarified who they serve, and invested in looking professional. But in a market crowded with competent options and shaped by AI-driven discovery, clarity alone doesn’t convert.Once a prospect knows a firm might be for them, the real decision begins: Do I trust these people? Do I like how they think? Would I confidently refer them?This episode explores why relatability has become the missing layer—the factor that turns relevance into selection and good clients into consistent referrals.Lee and Rebekah break down how buying decisions now happen long before a first conversation, why safe and neutral messaging often leads to being forgettable, and how firms that feel human, easy to describe, and aligned with their clients’ mindset stand out in a crowded market.They also clarify a common misconception: relatability isn’t oversharing or personal branding fluff. It’s a deliberate system—built into messaging, content, reviews, and client experience—that helps the right people feel confident choosing and recommending your firm.This conversation is especially relevant for small and mid-sized tax and accounting firms that rely on referrals, want better-fit clients, and are navigating how marketing, trust, and AI intersect in today’s buying environment.As the profession becomes more automated, this episode makes one thing clear: being unmistakably human isn’t a risk—it’s an advantage.

  16. 102

    Why Pricing Keeps Breaking in Tax & Accounting Firms (It’s Not Your Rates)

    Most tax and accounting firms don’t actually have a pricing problem.They have a pricing system problem.In this episode of Growth Minded Accountant, we break down why traditional pricing models — hourly billing, fixed fees, even “value pricing” — keep breaking as firms grow, adopt AI, and move toward advisory services.👉 Download the Pricing System Playbook (Free PDF): https://tinyurl.com/CWPwhitepaperYou’ll learn:Why hourly billing collapses as efficiency increasesThe hidden costs of broken pricing systems, including partner bottlenecks, advisory burnout, and revenue without leverageWhy pricing without clear positioning creates resistanceHow narrative, education, and content prepare clients to expect higher-value pricingThe difference between pricing models and pricing architectureHow modern firms price outcomes instead of effortThis episode is for small to mid-sized tax and accounting firms that want to:Move beyond hourly billingOffer tax advisory or CFO advisory servicesScale without burning out partnersAttract better-fit clients who understand their valueIf your firm feels busy but not scalable, this episode explains why — and what to do next.Pricing isn’t a rate card. It’s an architecture.🔗 RESOURCESThe Pricing System Playbook (Free PDF): https://tinyurl.com/CWPwhitepaper📌 WHO SHOULD LISTENCPA firmsEnrolled Agents & Tax professionalsAccounting & Bookkeeping firm ownersAdvisory-focused firmsIf you’re interested in building a pricing system that actually scales with your firm, this episode lays the foundation.

  17. 101

    Overtime Deductions, Client Confusion & Smarter Tax Prep

    Overtime deductions became one of the most misunderstood tax topics coming out of the last election cycle—and that confusion is heading straight into tax season.In this episode, Lee Reams II and Lee Reams Sr. break down what actually qualifies as deductible overtime, why state overtime rules don’t automatically apply for federal tax purposes, and why the 2025 tax season will be far more labor-intensive for firms than most people expect.This isn’t about complicated tax law.It’s about time, communication, and preparation.What we cover:• Why not all overtime qualifies for the federal deduction• State overtime rules vs. FLSA rules—and why the difference matters• Why weekly overtime analysis creates major prep bottlenecks• A real-world example where “earned OT” still results in no deduction• The hidden trap with time-and-a-half vs. double-time pay• Why 2025 puts the burden on firms—not employers• How structured worksheets and standardized intake save hours per return• The curveball many firms miss: tipped occupations• The advisory opportunity hiding inside a compliance headacheThe big takeaway: Firms that educate clients early, collect cleaner data, and use smarter systems will avoid chaos—and have better advisory conversations with better outcomes.This episode is a must-listen for tax and accounting professionals who want fewer surprises, better client experiences, and stronger margins heading into the 2025 tax season.Download the overtime worksheets:PDF:https://images.client-sites.com/WS-OvertimeDeduction.pdfGoogle / Excel:https://images.client-sites.com/Overtime_Deduction_Worksheet.xlsxLearn more about tech-enabled firm growth at CountingWorks PRO: https://www.countingworkspro.com/Thanks for listening—and for doing the work to build a smarter, more proactive firm.

  18. 100

    Your Best Advisory Revenue Is Already on Your Client List

    It’s 2026—and most accounting firms are still trying to grow advisory revenue by chasing new clients.More leads.More traffic.More strangers.But the most profitable advisory opportunity most firms have isn’t out there.It’s already inside their client list.In this episode of The Growth Minded Accountant, Lee Reams II and Rebekah Barton explain why existing clients are your biggest advisory advantage—and why firms that understand this grow faster, charge more confidently, and build advisory practices that actually scale.You’ll learn:Why current clients are 3–5x more likely to buy advisory servicesThe real difference between compliance and advisory, and why it changes how you sellWhy most advisory proposals fail—even with trusted clientsHow education “foams the runway” before advisory conversationsWhy advisory works best as a portfolio of client moments, not a single offeringHow systems and playbooks make advisory predictable instead of effort-basedIf advisory feels harder to sell than it should, this episode will help you understand why—and what to do differently in 2026.Your best advisory revenue isn’t in future leads.It’s already in your relationships.

  19. 99

    Your Tech Stack Isn’t the Problem — The Experience Is (2026 Reality Check)

    In 2026, most tax and accounting firms don’t have a software problem.They have an experience problem.In this solo episode of The Growth Minded Accountant, Lee Reams II explains why stacking “good tools” has quietly become the biggest source of friction inside modern firms—and why AI-first firms are already pulling away.You’ll hear why:Most firms only use 20–30% of the software they pay forTraining doesn’t compound—it resetsClients aren’t difficult—they’re overwhelmedStaff has become the invisible integration layerTraditional software is becoming the bottleneckAI-first thinking simplifies everything clients touchThis episode isn’t about replacing your tax software or chasing the latest tool.It’s about rethinking the experience your clients and staff live inside every day—and asking what no longer needs to exist in 2026.If your firm only works because you know how to navigate the mess, that’s not scale.That’s risk.🎧 The Growth Minded Accountant explores what it really takes to build a modern, scalable firm—covering AI, client experience, growth strategy, and the systems that separate firms pulling ahead from those stuck maintaining complexity.Subscribe for weekly episodes.

  20. 98

    The Third Layer Tax and Accounting Firms Are Missing

    Most tax and accounting firms are not broken.They are incomplete.In this episode of The Growth-Minded Accountant, Lee Reams and Rebekah Barton introduce a simple but powerful framework that explains why so many firms feel harder to run than they should.Every firm has three layers.The Work Layer handles compliance and deliverables.The Team Layer organizes people, tasks, and workflow.The third layer, the Client Experience Layer, is where most firms struggle, not because they are doing something wrong, but because no one ever taught them to build it.This is the layer where onboarding happens, communication lives, proposals are signed, payments flow, and clients understand what comes next. It is also the layer clients actually experience.When this layer is missing, firms become reactive. Bottlenecks feel normal. Advisory gets pushed off. Stress becomes part of the job.When it is in place, everything changes.As the accounting profession moves into the AI and advisory age, the firms that invest in the Client Experience Layer are not just reducing friction. They are the firms positioned to lead, with clearer narratives, stronger trust, and more scalable client relationships.This episode is a foundational conversation for firm owners who want a modern, predictable, and lower-stress practice heading into 2026 and beyond.🎙️ The Growth-Minded Accountant Hosted by Lee Reams II and Rebekah Barton

  21. 97

    2026 Predictions for Accountants: AI Will Be the Standard. Relationships Decide Who Wins.

    As we close out the year, this episode of The Growth Minded Accountant is a little different.No guest.No hype.Just an honest look at what’s coming next for tax and accounting firms.In this year-end solo episode, Lee Reams II shares his 2026 predictions—not based on headlines or fear-driven narratives, but on patterns he’s seen repeat over the last decade.The short version:By 2026, AI will be the standard. What will separate winning firms from everyone else won’t be technology—it will be relationships.In this episode, Lee covers:Why not using AI will be a problem—but using AI won’t be impressiveWhat happens when knowledge and answers become cheapWhy trust, context, and communication become the real differentiatorsHow advisory is moving downmarket, not just upmarketWhere platform pressure and automation show up firstWhy adoption will be slower than the headlines suggest—and why that’s an opportunityLee also reflects on a Forbes article he wrote in 2016 about artificial intelligence and cloud accounting—and why many of those predictions played out almost exactly as expected.🧠 Read the Forbes article referenced in this episode: https://www.forbes.com/sites/forbesfinancecouncil/2016/10/11/will-artificial-intelligence-and-cloud-accounting-replace-the-accountants-of-tomorrow/This episode isn’t about replacing accountants.It’s about building firms that use automation to free up time—and reinvest it into better relationships.If you’re thinking about how to position your firm heading into 2026, this conversation is for you.Happy New Year—and welcome to what’s next.

  22. 96

    AI Search, the 2026 Tax Reset, and the End of Generic Tax & Accounting Firms

    AI-powered search is fundamentally changing how people discover tax and accounting professionals — and the 2026 tax law reset is about to separate firms that are prepared from those that aren’t.In this episode of The Growth Minded Accountant, Lee Reams and Rebekah Barton unpack two major forces converging at the same time:• Why AI search tools are reducing visibility for generic tax and accounting websites • How discovery now works when search engines synthesize answers instead of ranking pages • What the 2026 tax reset means for client expectations, planning demand, and advisory opportunities • Why narrative, authority, and clarity matter more than templates and keywords • How firms can transition from compliance-heavy work to higher-value advisory without increasing headcountThis conversation isn’t about chasing trends or fear-based marketing. It’s about understanding how visibility, trust, and firm growth now work — and how growth-minded tax and accounting professionals can position themselves to win heading into 2026.If you’re a CPA, EA, or tax professional thinking about the future of your firm, this episode will challenge how you think about discovery, positioning, and advisory growth.

  23. 95

    Top of Mind Is Your Moat: Why “Being Busy” Isn’t a Growth Strategy for Accounting Firms

    Most accountants say the same thing: “I’m already too busy… why would I need marketing?”In this episode of The Growth Minded Accountant, hosts Lee Reams II and Rebekah Barton break down the real reason fast-growing firms keep winning—while others unknowingly fall behind:👉 Being busy today doesn’t keep you remembered tomorrow. 👉 Visibility—not workload—is what protects your firm. 👉 Top of Mind is the moat every accounting firm needs in 2025 and beyond.Lee and Rebekah explore why so many firm owners misunderstand marketing, the three layers every modern firm runs on, and why the client experience layer now determines trust, retention, and referrals.They also unpack one of the most overlooked growth levers in the profession: your custom narrative.Your positioning, tone, personality, and story don’t just help humans recognize you — they help AI understand you, match you with the right clients, and elevate your visibility across search engines and AI assistants. In today’s world, your narrative is no longer optional branding. It’s infrastructure.In This Episode:Why “I’m too busy” is a dangerous mythThe three layers of every accounting firmWhat Top of Mind actually means (and what it doesn’t)Why referrals come from memory, not talentHow AI tools decide who to recommendWhy your custom narrative fuels the AI layerWhat consistency looks like in real firmsHow CountingWorks PRO helps firms stay top of mind automaticallyKey Insight:Firms don’t grow because they shout louder.They grow because they show up consistently.Visibility is the moat.Narrative is the differentiator.Top of Mind is the advantage.

  24. 94

    From Bookkeeper to Advisor: How to Price, Package & Confidently Communicate Your Value — with Linda Hunt

    Stop billing by the hour. Start communicating your value. Step into advisory with confidence.In this episode of The Growth Minded Accountant, Lee Reams II sits down with Linda Hunt, founder of SUM Solutions and creator of The Perfect Pricing Formula, to unpack the shift every bookkeeper and accounting professional is facing right now: moving from task-based work to outcome-based advisory — all while navigating the rise of AI. Together, Lee and Linda dive into:Why hourly billing caps your income and erodes your confidenceHow AI tools can become your “unfair advantage” rather than a threatWhat the Minimum Aligned Price is — and why most firms are charging below itHow to build simple, profitable packages that clients actually understandThe mindset blocks that sabotage pricing conversationsHow to set boundaries, avoid scope creep, and keep client relationships healthyWhy positioning and niches matter more than ever in the AI eraHow to use analytics, KPIs, and AI-generated insights to move into advisory — even if you don’t “feel” like an advisor yetLinda and Lee also break down the emotional side of pricing: the nervous system response, the discomfort, the instinct to over-explain or discount, and how to shift from “task doer” to true strategic partner.If you're a bookkeeper, accountant, or fractional CFO looking to raise prices, package services, or step confidently into advisory, this conversation delivers practical takeaways you can implement immediately.Learn More About Linda Hunt & SUM SolutionsWant support with pricing, packaging, or advisory? 👉 Visit: https://www.sumsolutions.com/ Book a Financial Clarity Consult to explore how Linda can help your firm grow.About The Growth Minded AccountantHosted by Lee Reams II, this podcast helps modern accounting firms scale through better pricing, better communication, and better use of AI — without losing the human layer that clients value most.If you enjoyed this episode, please follow, rate, and review the show. It helps others in the profession find us.

  25. 93

    Trust has officially moved to AI — and most accounting and tax professionals don’t realize how drastically the landscape just changed.

    In this episode, Lee Reams II and Rebekah Barton break down the impact of Intuit’s new $100M partnership with OpenAI and what it means for the future of the profession. Clients are no longer starting with Google or referrals. They’re starting with AI — and they trust the answer.We cover:Why the compliance-first model is getting compressedHow AI has become the new referral sourceWhy advisory is not just for high-net-worth clientsThe human moat: what AI can’t replaceThe Four Pillars of Trust in the AI eraHow narrative, positioning, and visibility determine who AI recommendsThis is not the end of the profession — it’s the end of the old profession. Advisory-first firms will become the obvious choice. Here’s how to thrive.

  26. 92

    How Accountants Are Earning $2K a Month Per Client with CFO Advisory Services — featuring Adam Lean of The CFO Project

    AI and automation are changing everything — including how accountants grow.In this episode of The Growth Minded Accountant, host Lee Reams II talks with Adam Lean, CEO of The CFO Project, about how technology is helping tax and accounting pros finally scale beyond compliance work and step into lucrative CFO advisory roles.Adam shares how The CFO Project’s advisors average nearly $2,000 per month per client with 87% retention, using a repeatable system that helps business owners generate positive cash flow — and gives accountants a way to stop trading time for money.You’ll learn:How to productize and scale CFO servicesWhat separates a true advisor from a fractional CFOWhy your soft skills (not just technical ones) drive retentionThe simple, nine-step system for delivering consistent resultsAnd why AI is actually empowering, not replacing, accountantsIf you’ve ever wanted to break free from commodity pricing, upsell your best clients, and build recurring advisory revenue — this is your roadmap.👉 Explore more at thecfoproject.com

  27. 91

    The AI Squeeze — How Automation Is Compressing the Bottom and Expanding the Top of the Profession

    AI isn’t killing accounting. It’s reorganizing it.In this episode, Lee Reams II and Rebekah Barton dig into how automation is reshaping the profession... compressing the repetitive, low-value work at the bottom and expanding opportunities at the top where strategy, storytelling, and human relationships live.This isn’t about fear. It’s about leverage. The smartest firms are using AI to scale faster, deepen client connections, and free up time for higher-value work.You’ll also hear how CountingWorks PRO is leading the shift with AI-driven systems that personalize client experiences, automate proposals, and help five-person firms perform like twenty.What You’ll Learn:Why the traditional accounting pyramid is flipping and what’s nextWhat tasks AI can handle today and where humans still need to leadHow to “trust but verify” your AI workflowsThe four biggest risks firms need to manageWhy the next two years are for scale, not survivalHow AI is changing the path for young professionalsFavorite Quotes:“AI isn’t replacing people... it’s replacing inefficiency.”“AI doesn’t make you less human... it gives you time to be more human.”“The real disruption won’t come from AI... it’ll come from the firms who learn how to lead with it.”Listen if you want to:Understand what’s really happening with AI in accountingCombine automation and expertise for smarter growthBuild a modern firm that thrives on change👉 Learn more: CountingWorks PRO 📩 Subscribe: The Growth Minded Accountant on Apple Podcasts, Spotify, or wherever you listen.#AIAccounting #FutureOfWork #AccountingFirms #Automation #Advisory #TaxProfession #CountingWorksPRO #LeeReams #GrowthMindedAccountant

  28. 90

    How to Protect Your Firm from Service Creep (and Stop Saying Yes to Everything)

    If you’ve ever caught yourself saying “yes” to one more client favor — knowing it won’t make it to the invoice — this episode is for you.Host Lee Reams II, founder of CountingWorks PRO, and co-host Rebekah Barton break down one of the most common profit leaks in accounting and advisory firms: service creep.They’ll walk you through:What service creep actually looks like (and why it’s so easy to miss)Why even seasoned pros struggle to say noHow to set better boundaries with clear engagement letters and proposalsPolite, ready-to-use scripts for out-of-scope client requestsSimple automation tools that protect your time and marginsYou’ll also learn how modern firms are using digital proposals, client intake, and automated engagement renewals to turn scope creep into structured, billable work — without awkward client conversations.💡 Key takeaway: Saying “no” isn’t the goal — saying “yes” the right way is.Quotes & Data Mentioned:89% of firms have avoided scope conversations (Ignition Scope Creep Survey)Firms lose roughly $85,000 a year in unbilled work (Libeo Survey)Up to 20% of revenue disappears through service creep (ScopeKeeper Advisory Report)If you’re ready to protect your profit, empower your team, and create a firm that values your expertise — this episode is a must-listen.🎙️ The Growth Minded Accountant — helping accounting and advisory professionals grow smarter, stronger, and more profitable.

  29. 89

    Your Next Referral Might Come from an Algorithm

    Referrals have always powered accounting firm growth — but what happens when word-of-mouth goes digital?In this episode, hosts Lee Reams II and Rebekah Barton unpack how AI is quietly reshaping visibility, referrals, and client acquisition for accountants. From ChatGPT’s recommendations to Google’s new AI-driven search, algorithms are already deciding which firms get found — and which disappear.You’ll learn:Why AI is the new middleman between you and your next clientHow algorithms interpret trust, authority, and authenticityThe three moves every accountant should make now to stay visibleWhy “cookie cutter” firms are being erased — and how narrative winsIt’s not science fiction — it’s the next referral revolution.Tune in to learn how to make sure AI knows your story before your competitors do.

  30. 88

    The Death of the Funnel: Why Accountants Need Narrative Ecosystems to Grow

    Funnels are dead. And in this episode of The Growth Minded Accountant, host Lee Reams II and guest Rebekah Barton explain why the old lead-generation playbook no longer works—and what accountants must do instead.For years, firms were told to rely on funnels: fill the top with ads and PDFs, nurture with email, and push leads down until they buy. But in Fall 2025, that’s not how clients make decisions.Clients now:Google you, check Yelp, scroll LinkedIn, and DM a friend.Ask ChatGPT who the best advisor is (and trust the recommendation).Get their answers directly from Google’s AI Overviews, often without ever clicking a website.The result? Funnels don’t just leak—they’re broken.In their place comes the Narrative Ecosystem: a consistent story told across every touchpoint—your website, Google profile, proposals, onboarding, and even your newsletters. It’s the only way to win in a world where AI is deciding what people see and who they trust.In this episode, you’ll learn:Why traditional funnels no longer match today’s discovery process.How Google’s AI-first SERPs and ChatGPT’s dominance are reshaping trust.What a Narrative Ecosystem looks like in practice for accountants and advisory firms.How AI can amplify your narrative across every client interaction.Practical steps to move from funnel-thinking to ecosystem growth.👉 Funnels are relics. Narrative ecosystems are the future. And with CountingWorks PRO powered by MAX, tax pros and accountants can finally scale smarter and faster—without more headcount or cookie-cutter marketing.Subscribe to The Growth Minded Accountant wherever you listen to podcasts—and discover how to build a modern, visible, and advisory-first firm in the AI era.

  31. 87

    The Real Cost of Delaying AI Adoption: Why Waiting is the Most Expensive Option for Accountants

    Welcome to another episode of The Growth-Minded Accountant Podcast, hosted by Lee Reams and Rebekah Barton. This week we’re tackling one of the most urgent challenges facing accounting firms in 2025: the hidden cost of delaying AI adoption.What You’ll Learn in This EpisodeThe invisible tax of doing nothing: why waiting on AI is costing you revenue, hours, and growth.AI search visibility: how platforms like ChatGPT and Perplexity are changing client discovery — and what happens if your firm isn’t included.Productivity gaps: real-world examples of firms reclaiming hundreds of hours with AI for proposals, engagement letters, tax research, and client communications.Talent and retention: why Gen Z expects AI-ready firms, and how delaying adoption leads to burnout and turnover.Lessons from AI missteps: what we can learn from Bench and ScaleFactor’s collapse, and how to adopt AI responsibly.Where to start today: practical, low-lift AI applications to unlock ROI immediately.Key Takeaways“AI doesn’t replace people — it protects them from burnout.”“If you’re not in AI search, you don’t exist.”“The most expensive option isn’t adopting AI. It’s waiting.”👉 Ready to stop paying the hidden cost of delay? Explore how CountingWorks PRO, powered by MAX, helps accountants start small, scale fast, and win with AI.🎧 Listen now and subscribe to The Growth-Minded Accountant for weekly insights into the tools, strategies, and narratives shaping the future of accounting.

  32. 86

    Retention Marketing for Accountants: Protect Your Moat in the AI Era

    Most accountants think growth = more leads. More ads. More SEO. More hustle.But if you’re losing 15 out of every 100 clients each year? You’re not growing—you’re standing still.Retention is your moat. It’s what protects your firm when AI search punishes cookie-cutter sites, when clients tune out generic newsletters, and when compliance-only firms get commoditized.In this episode of The Growth Minded Accountant, Lee Reams II and Rebekah Barton (Chief Visibility Officer at CountingWorks PRO) dig into why retention marketing is your highest ROI play in 2025 and beyond:Retention is 5× cheaper than acquisition (Harvard Business Review)A 5% lift in retention boosts profits by 25–95% (DemandSage)75% of clients want more advisory services—not just tax prep (Thomson Reuters)The real math of churn: how many new clients you need just to break evenPractical strategies: client health scoring, quarterly check-ins, segmented newsletters, win-back campaigns, dashboards, loyalty tiers, and more👉 If you’re ready to stop running on the client treadmill and start compounding growth, this episode is for you.Retention isn’t just about keeping clients—it’s about growing with them, multiplying their lifetime value, and turning them into your biggest referral engine.Hit play and learn how to protect your moat.#Accounting #RetentionMarketing #AI #Advisory

  33. 85

    Is ChatGPT Recommending Your Firm? How to Build AI Visibility, Earn Referrals, and Convert Clients You’ll Never Meet

    Referrals aren’t what they used to be. Clients don’t just ask a friend anymore—they ask ChatGPT. And if your firm doesn’t show up with credibility, reviews, and content that AI can cite… you’re invisible.In this episode of The Growth Minded Accountant, host Lee Reams II and guest Rebekah Barton share the Modern SEO + GEO Playbook for Accountants. You’ll discover how to build a digital presence that passes the AI visibility test, converts digital referrals, and proves your authority before prospects ever call.What you’ll learn in this episode:How AI tools like ChatGPT, Google SGE, and Perplexity decide which firms to citeWhy FAQ schema and local blogs are must-haves for visibilityThe role reviews play in building trust with AI (and humans)A real example of how consumers use ChatGPT to research referralsThe checklist for a “fully optimized” firm in 2025 and beyondDon’t get left behind as search goes conversational. Tune in and future-proof your firm’s discoverability.

  34. 84

    Cutting Clients vs. Cutting Hours — Why Tech-Enabled Firms Win Every Time

    Every tax season, accountants hit the same wall: too many clients, not enough hours. The knee-jerk reaction? Cut clients, cut stress, cut back.But here’s the problem: you can’t cut your way to growth. And you sure can’t cut your way to a 7-figure exit.In this episode of The Growth-Minded Accountant, Lee Reams II (Founder of CountingWorks) reveals why the most successful firms aren’t trimming — they’re transforming. With AI and modern workflows, firms can cut hours instead of revenue, scale advisory without adding staff, and build practices worth premium multiples at exit.You’ll discover:Why cutting clients doesn’t reduce client demandsHow to raise prices the right way (without lipstick-on-a-pig processes)The hidden cost of “doing nothing” year after yearHow AI and automation unlock 5–10 hours per engagementWhy tech-enabled firms sell for nearly double the multiples of traditional firmsThe Big Four are pouring billions into AI. Independent firms don’t have to lose — but they do have to adapt.If you’re ready to stop surviving tax season and start scaling a future-proof firm, this episode is your playbook. Learn more via https://www.countingworkspro.com/.

  35. 83

    How to Thrive in the New AI Order: Survival for Tax & Accounting Firms

    AI has changed everything for tax and accounting firms. Referrals and Google rankings are no longer enough—clients now turn to AI tools for answers, and only the most trusted firms get recommended. In this episode, Lee Reams II and Rebekah Barton unpack what this shift means, why compliance-only models are at risk, and how firms can pivot to advisory, leverage AI to scale, and protect their client base from competitors.

  36. 82

    The Overlooked Goldmine: Serving Middle-Class & Upper-Middle-Class Clients

    Think tax planning is only for billionaires? Think again. In this episode of The Growth Minded Accountant, we break down why middle-income, dual-earner families often see the biggest savings — and how accountants can turn complexity into opportunity.You’ll hear how a $150K household (one spouse W-2, one spouse 1099) can unlock $10K–$20K in annual savings through smart strategies like entity optimization, retirement planning, health benefits, and quarterly tax alignment. More importantly, we’ll show you how to position tax concierge services that pay for themselves many times over.👉 If you’re ready to move beyond cookie-cutter and start delivering agency-level value to your clients, this episode is your wake-up call.

  37. 81

    Stop Guessing, Start Profiting: Dynamic Pricing vs. Value Pricing vs. Published Price Guides

    Most tax professionals and accountants are still guessing at their prices — and it’s costing them thousands. In this episode of The Growth Minded Accountant, hosts Lee Reams II and Rebekah Barton break down the three big pricing models in the profession:⚖️ Published Price Guides: Transparent and simple — but often leave money on the table.💰 Value Pricing: Aligns with client outcomes — but hard to scale and defend.🤖 Dynamic Pricing with MAX: AI-powered proposals that adapt to client demographics, service complexity, and real-time market data.You’ll learn why static pricing is holding firms back, how dynamic pricing bridges transparency with profitability, and how MAX’s Proposal Playbook is giving firms confidence to charge smarter, win more clients, and future-proof their practices.If you’ve ever wondered, “Am I undercharging?” — this episode will give you the data-driven answers you’ve been missing.

  38. 80

    Bonus Depreciation in 2025 and Beyond: Strategic Tax Insights for Businesses

    Unlock the power of bonus depreciation in today’s tax landscape with this expert-curated nano CPE course, Bonus Depreciation in 2025 and Beyond: Strategic Tax Insights for Businesses. In under 20 minutes, you’ll learn how the One Big Beautiful Bill Act (OBBBA) permanently reinstated 100% bonus depreciation — and what that means for your business clients.From the history and evolution of bonus depreciation to the groundbreaking introduction of Qualified Production Property for U.S.-based manufacturing, this AI-narrated episode breaks down complex tax law into clear, actionable insights. You’ll also explore key planning considerations, including Section 179 vs. bonus depreciation, the interaction with the Qualified Business Income (QBI) deduction, and long-term recapture rules.This course was developed by tax experts and delivered via innovative AI audio presentation to give you a fast, focused, and convenient way to earn CPE credit.Course Details:CPE Credit: 0.2 (Taxes)Delivery Method: QAS Self-Study (Nano Learning)Program Level: BasicPrerequisites: NoneAdvanced Preparation: NoneEnroll & Claim Credit:Listen now and claim your 0.2 CPE credit,  visit https://taxcpe.litmos.com/self-signup/.For CPAs seeking free CPE credit, use Pass Code: BONUSDEPIncludes a full transcript and a knowledge check for CPAs to earn 0.2 hours of NASBA CPE credit.

  39. 79

    New OBBBA Tip Income Tax Deduction Explained

    This NASBA-compliant nano course delivers expert tax insight in a fresh, podcast-style format. Carefully curated by our team of seasoned tax professionals and presented by advanced AI for the best possible learning experience, this course makes complex tax law easy to understand and engaging to follow.In just 12 minutes, discover how the new above-the-line deduction for tip income (2025–2028) works, who qualifies, the $25,000 cap and AGI phase-out, and how the expanded FICA tip credit benefits employers.Includes a full transcript, downloadable course material, and a knowledge check for CPAs to earn 0.2 hours of NASBA CPE credit.For CPAs seeking free CPE credit, visit https://taxcpe.litmos.com/self-signup/.Use Pass Code: TIPS

  40. 78

    How to Turn Happy Clients into a Constant Stream of Ideal Leads—No Ads, No AI Required Body

    This episode of The Growth Minded Accountant hosted by Lee Reams II, focuses on building a "Referral Growth Engine That Runs Itself." It emphasizes that referrals are the most profitable lead source and can be generated through a repeatable process using existing tools like an inbox and calendar, without needing ads or AI.The podcast outlines a 4-part "Referral Blueprint Framework":Trigger the Ask: Identify optimal times to ask for referrals, such as after a client signs their return, experiences a financial win, during quarterly reviews, upon onboarding completion, or after providing positive feedback. A "Trigger Tracker" (e.g., a shared Google Sheet) can help teams identify these moments.Make Referrals Easy: Create a simple referral page or form (e.g., Google Forms, Calendly) and provide clients with easy-to-share copy for emails or texts.Say Thank You: Acknowledge every referral with a personal email, small gift (e.g., eGift card), handwritten note, or public recognition.Track and Repeat: Use a simple Google Sheet to track referrers, referral names, dates, outcomes, and rewards sent.The episode also highlights getting the team involved by training them to recognize referral triggers and making it fun with shout-outs, internal bonuses, and leaderboards. The host provides a 5-day checklist to launch this system.

  41. 77

    The OBBBA Files: MAXCast™ Summary of the One Big Beautiful Bill Act

    This isn’t your average tax update. In this MAXCast™, we fed the full text of our analysis of the newly signed One Big Beautiful Bill Act (OBBBA) into MAX — our AI-powered assistant — to extract, summarize, and analyze the biggest tax reform in years. What did MAX find? Refundable credits. Big retirement shifts. Small biz perks. And more than a few surprises hidden in the fine print.This episode is a fast-paced walkthrough of how smart firms use AI to cut through complexity, surface insights, and stay ahead of the curve. Whether you're a tax pro, firm leader, or just want to know what the OBBBA means for you, this episode delivers clarity without the jargon.🎙️ AI meets tax law.💡 Real-time insights from the full bill text.🧠 1 Hour of CPA NASBA-Accredited CPE Available — Enroll to ClaimUse Code: MAXBILL

  42. 76

    🎙 Episode: How to Rank in AI Search – Become the Expert That Generative Engines Reference

    The SEO game has changed—and most tax and accounting firms haven’t caught up.In the age of ChatGPT, Perplexity, and Google’s AI-powered results, only a few sources get cited. The rest? Ignored.In this episode, Lee and Rebekah reveal how to become the firm that AI search engines trust and reference.🔎 You’ll learn:Why AI search isn’t about keywords—it’s about relevanceThe content patterns AI is trained to recognize and citeWhat makes your blog, podcast, or voice “reference-worthy”How to write answers to real client questionsWhy MAX helps you show up without hiring a content team🎯 If you want your firm to get found, get trusted, and grow without shouting—this is your playbook.📲 Learn more at CountingWorksPRO.com

  43. 75

    The Big Beautiful Tax Planning Playbook: Turn OBBBA Into Clients, Revenue & Relevance

    President Trump signed the One Big Beautiful Bill Act (OBBBA) into law on July 4th—and while most people were watching fireworks, tax pros just got handed a golden opportunity.In this episode, Lee breaks down how to turn this 1,000-page bill into your next revenue stream with a productized offer he calls the Big Beautiful Tax Planning Appointment. You’ll learn how to price it, who to target, and how to use MAX to generate marketing campaigns instantly—without hiring a copywriter or writing from scratch.Inside: • What to include in your $349–$750 planning session • Real prompt sequences you can use in MAX today • Ready-to-run campaigns for families, seniors, freelancers, and business owners • A step-by-step plan to turn tax law into client growthThis episode is your playbook for turning policy into profit—and scaling your firm with smart, proactive tax planning.

  44. 74

    First Impressions Matter: Why Client Experience Begins Before You Even Answer

    Your voicemail. Your phone tree. Your email signature. They seem like small details—but they’re quietly shaping how prospects and clients feel about your firm.In this episode of The Growth-Minded Accountant, Lee Reams and Rebekah Barton uncover one of the most overlooked growth killers in accounting practices: poor first impressions.You’ll learn:What your voicemail is really saying about your firmWhy complicated phone trees cause prospects to hang upThe email red flags that signal “amateur hour”How to tighten your communication touchpoints for instant trustThese fixes are quick. They’re free. And they send the message that you run a professional, high-value firm—before you even return the call.🎧 Tune in to hear ✅ The 4-part communication audit every accounting pro should do this week ✅ Simple scripts and best practices you can use immediately ✅ Why client experience starts before the relationship begins

  45. 73

    Your Website Is Confusing Clients: Here’s the Fix

    Your homepage might be the reason high-quality clients aren’t reaching out. Not because they don’t need your help—but because they don’t get what you do.In this episode, Lee Reams and Rebekah Barton walk through the 4-Part Homepage Formula that every accounting firm needs to implement—whether you're solo or scaling fast.🔥 What you’ll learn:How to pass the “stranger test” with a clear, specific headlineWhat makes “Accounting Services” sound as vague as “Food Services”The trust-killing mistake 90% of firms are still makingThe difference between a cold CTA and a human invitationWhy “Above the Fold” might be costing you conversionsMobile-first design tips that keep clients from bouncingPlus: Want a visual before/after of a homepage done wrong vs. done right? Just email us and we’ll send it to you.Because your homepage isn’t just your front door—it’s your first impression. Let’s make sure it opens to the right clients. 💻 Learn more: www.countingworkspro.com

  46. 72

    The Big, Beautiful Bill: What Tax Pros Need to Know Now

    In this episode of The Growth Minded Accountant, host Lee Reams II is joined by Lee Reams Sr. to unpack the latest updates on tax reform from both the Senate and the House.We break down:What’s actually in the “Big, Beautiful Bill” (so far)Key differences between House and Senate versionsWhich clients could be impacted—and howHow to turn reform uncertainty into billable planning servicesReal-world pricing, positioning, and upsell ideas for tax prosThis isn’t just policy talk—it’s a playbook for turning headlines into new advisory revenue.👀 Want the full campaign kit to offer Tax Reform Readiness Plans? Email us at [email protected]

  47. 71

    Your Brand Has a Voice. Does Your Firm Know What It Sounds Like?

    In a world where AI can generate endless content, your voice is the one thing it can’t replicate—unless you train it to.In this episode of The Growth-Minded Accountant, host Lee Reams is joined by Rebekah Barton, Chief Visibility Officer at CountingWorks PRO, to explore how tax and accounting firms can grow faster by sounding more human.💡 Inside the episode:• Why a generic voice kills trust (and growth)• How to define a brand tone that builds connection and converts• Simple exercises to make your messaging feel like you • Client segmentation strategies that unlock $30K–$60K in upsells • How to train your AI to reflect your values, tone, and styleFrom $350K firms to multi-partner practices, this episode shows you how to humanize your content, personalize your automation, and speak with a voice that actually moves people.Because in 2025, sameness is the enemy—and your voice is your moat.Subscribe and leave a review if this helped shift your perspective on what real growth sounds like.🎧 Need help defining your brand voice? Visit https://www.countingworkspro.com/choose-your-journey/product-deep-dive.#Accounting #TaxAdvisory #BrandVoice #FirmGrowth #AIForFirms #MAXAI #GrowthMindedAccountant

  48. 70

    Build a Firm That Runs Without You

    Learn how to become the architect—not the bottleneck—of your tax and accounting firm. Lee Reams II and Rebekah Barton share six key systems—from client comms to advisory—that reclaim your time while driving growth. Perfect for growth-minded tax & accounting owners ready to work less and earn more. Book your free narrative consult at CountingWorksPRO.com.

  49. 69

    SEO Is Changing Forever: What Google’s AI Search Means for Your Firm

    Google’s AI-powered search is here—and it’s already changing how your future clients find (or don’t find) your firm.In this episode of The Growth Minded Accountant, host Lee Reams II and guest Rebekah Barton unpack how AI tools like Google SGE, ChatGPT, and Perplexity are reshaping online visibility for tax and accounting professionals.What you’ll learn: • Why “ranking on Google” no longer guarantees traffic • How to get your firm’s content cited by AI (instead of your competitors’) • Sample prompts and strategies to future-proof your SEO • Why this shift is a massive opportunity for firms that move now🎯 If your website is generic or outdated, you’re invisible. Let’s fix that—fast.

  50. 68

    The Most Profitable SMB Niches for Accountants in 2025

    Discover the top business segments every accountant should target this year. Lee Reams II and Rebekah Barton reveal where the real profits are, how to segment smarter, and how to use advisory services and relationship-building to grow your firm—no matter your size.

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ABOUT THIS SHOW

Hosted by Lee Reams II and CountingWorks PRO, "The Growth Minded Accountant" is your go-to podcast for independent tax and accounting pros ready to level up. We’re here to show you how AI, digital marketing, and cutting-edge tools — the kind that only the big guys had access to — can help you save time, win new clients, and keep your practice thriving. From leveraging AI agents to boosting ROI on every client interaction, we cover it all. Tune in to stay sharp, learn strategies that work, and make sure you’re always one step ahead. The playing field just got a lot more level — let’s go!

HOSTED BY

Lee Reams II from CountingWorks PRO

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