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 podcast@cckcpa.com.

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