In Episode 42 of the Bookkeeping Lily Pad Podcast, Rachel shares important information about a growing security concern: unauthorized access to Intuit accounts, including QuickBooks Online.

She discusses how these breaches happen, why commonly used login credentials put users at risk, and what steps you can take to better secure your account.

Topics include user ID best practices, the limitations of multi-factor authentication, setting up passkeys, and the need for a 24/7 Intuit response option for compromised accounts.

This episode offers practical guidance for bookkeepers, accountants, and small business owners who rely on QuickBooks and want to ensure their data—and their clients’ data—stays protected.

Ever look at a discovery call intake form and think, “There’s no way I can help this person”? You’re not alone. In this episode, Rachel Barnett shares a real story about nearly turning down a call that turned out to be one of the most rewarding of the week. She talks about why jargon-filled forms can be misleading, how to approach calls with curiosity (not fear), and the unexpected value in simply showing up. Whether you’re a new or seasoned bookkeeper, this episode is your reminder that you probably know more than you think—and every call is a chance to help someone.

Struggling to name your business—or thinking about a rebrand? In this episode, Rachel Barnett shares what she’s learned from naming two of her own businesses, including what worked, what didn’t, and what she’d do differently. She covers common pitfalls to avoid, tips for choosing a name that can grow with you, and why spelling and domain availability really matter. Whether you're brainstorming your first business name or considering a fresh start, this episode is packed with helpful insights (and a few laughs).

Are you thinking about starting your own bookkeeping business—or any kind of business? In this honest and personal episode, Rachel Barnett shares her own unexpected journey into business ownership and the lessons she’s learned over 13 years. From setting realistic expectations to the importance of naming and defining what you actually want, Rachel explores what it really means to build a business from scratch. If you’ve ever thought, “Should I do this?”—this episode is for you. Pour a cup of tea and let’s talk it through.

Hiring the right bookkeeper can be a challenge—how do you know if someone truly has the skills they claim? In this episode, Rachel Barnett shares her experience pre-screening bookkeepers for a business, reviewing hundreds of resumes, conducting technical interviews, and refining the hiring process. She explains what worked, what she’d do differently, and how business owners can improve their own hiring process. If you're looking to hire a bookkeeper—or wondering how to stand out as a candidate—this episode is full of insights you won’t want to miss!

Do you need a mentor, a coach, or a mastermind group? In this episode, Rachel Barnett shares her experiences with different types of mentorship and coaching, from one-on-one mentors to group coaching programs and mastermind groups. She explains how to identify what kind of support you need, where to find it, and how to set expectations for the relationship. Whether you're looking for guidance on bookkeeping, business growth, or leadership, this episode will help you navigate your options and find the right fit. Tune in and start building the support network that works for you!

What exactly is retained earnings, and how does QuickBooks Online handle it? In this short bookkeeping basics lesson, Rachel Barnett breaks down how retained earnings work, where to find it on your balance sheet, and why you don’t need to manually update it in QuickBooks. She also explains what a positive or negative retained earnings balance means for your business. Whether you're a bookkeeper or a small business owner, this quick explanation will help you understand this important accounting concept. Tune in and learn something new today!

Clear communication sets the foundation for a great client relationship. In this episode, Rachel Barnett walks through her "How We Work" guide—a resource she shares with clients to outline expectations, processes, and policies. Learn why having a welcome document helps clients feel at ease, how to set boundaries around communication and scope, and what details you should consider including in your own version. Plus, Rachel shares insights on pricing, workflow transparency, and managing client responsibilities. Tune in and get ideas for your own bookkeeping business! Gentle Frog's How We Work document: https://www.gentlefrog.com/welcome-what-to-expect/