Meet Isaac!

In this episode of Protea Conversations, Zane speaks with Isaac Perdomo, founder of Opzer, about the transformative power of automation in accounting firms. They discuss the importance of reclaiming time, building client relationships, and overcoming the fear of technology.

Isaac shares his journey from engineering to accounting automation, offers insights from the Dominican Republic, and provides strategies for engaging with firms at various stages of automation.

The conversation also explores the role of AI, practical steps for implementing automation, and the importance of establishing a strong brand. Isaac emphasizes the need for proactive approaches and the importance of team building in achieving business goals.

Takeaways

- Automation is essential for reclaiming time in accounting firms.

- Aligning incentives with clients enhances relationships.

- Fear of technology often stems from the unknown.

- Simple automation tools like bank rules can yield significant benefits.

- Proactive strategies lead to better outcomes in business.

- Building a brand is more important than just running a business.

- Time management is crucial; automation can help free up time.

- Cultural insights can shape business perspectives and strategies.

- Engagement with clients should be tailored to their specific needs.

- Team building is critical for scaling and achieving business goals.

Sound Bites

"Bank rules are a simple win for automation."

"Build a brand, not just a business."

Chapters

00:00 The Importance of Automation in Accounting Firms

02:43 Navigating Client Resistance to Change

05:03 Isaac's Journey from Engineering to Accounting Automation

07:11Cultural Insights from the Dominican Republic

09:46 Deciding to Go Solo in Business

12:11 Engagement Strategies with Accounting Firms

14:59 Overcoming Fear of Technology in Accounting

17:31 Selecting the Right Tools for Accounting Firms

20:04 Identifying Time Wasters in Accounting Firms

21:16 Automating Data Entry for Efficiency and Accuracy

23:02 Exploring Automation Tools in Accounting

25:38 Bridging the Gap: Modernizing Accounting Practices

29:16 Automation 101: Simple Steps to Get Started

30:08 Streamlining Onboarding and Resource Management

30:41 Tailoring Automation Strategies for Different Firms

32:58 Goals and Growth: Building a Sustainable Business

38:00 Building a Brand Beyond Business

40:29 Personal Insights: Who is Isaac Perdomo?

Connect with Isaac: LinkedIn personal - https://www.linkedin.com/in/isaac-perdomo/?locale=en_US

Meet Mike!

In this conversation, Zane interviews Mike Sylvester, a seasoned CPA and partner at SPS CPA Group.

Mike shares his unconventional journey from being a reactor operator in the Navy to becoming a successful accountant and firm leader. He discusses the importance of community, effective marketing strategies, and the challenges of having difficult conversations with clients.

Mike emphasizes the need for accountants to adapt to industry changes, particularly with the rise of AI, and offers valuable advice for aspiring accountants.

Takeaways

- Mike Sylvester has over 20 years of experience in public accounting.

- He transitioned from a military career to accounting later in life.

- Building a successful firm requires strong leadership and systems.

- Difficult conversations with clients are essential for their success.

- Networking and community involvement are crucial for accountants.

- Raising prices annually is a key strategy for firm growth.

- AI will significantly impact the accounting industry in the coming years.

- Effective marketing is about being responsive and providing value.

- Accountants should be adaptable to generational shifts in the workforce.

Sound Bites

"I met my wife in the Navy."

"You need to develop contacts."

"You have to show up."

Chapters

00:00 Introduction to Mike Sylvester and His Journey

04:58 From Military to Accounting: A Unique Path

11:16 Transitioning Careers: The Move to Accounting

14:54 Building a Family Business: Working with a Spouse

20:01 Navigating Tough Conversations with Clients

24:59 Advice for Aspiring Accountants and Firm Owners

29:06 The Value of Honest Conversations in Communities

32:57 Creating a Collaborative Environment

36:36 Marketing Strategies for Accounting Firms

41:28 The Future of Accounting: AI and Industry Changes

44:46 Advice for Newcomers in the Accounting Field

Connect with Mike:

LinkedIn personal - https://www.linkedin.com/in/michael-sylvester-cpa-98b2035/

Where the magic happens - https://x.com/FortWayneCPA

Meet David!

In this conversation, Zane interviews David Barbieto, a managing partner at De La Hoz Perez, and Barbieto, who shares his journey in the accounting profession.

David discusses the importance of teamwork, personal growth, and the challenges he faced transitioning from a large firm to starting his own. He reflects on his early career, the cultural adaptations he made while studying in Miami, and how he found his passion in public accounting. The conversation also touches on the significance of embracing technology, the entrepreneurial mindset, and the impact of personal experiences on professional success.

Takeaways

- The secret to success is surrounding yourself with a great team.

- Growth is essential for everyone in an organization.

- Public accounting offers unparalleled exposure to various business models.

-Transitioning to a new firm can be daunting but rewarding.

- Building a firm requires a different mindset than just having a job.

- Embracing technology is crucial for the future of accounting.

- Personal experiences shape professional journeys significantly.

- Risk management is a key aspect of entrepreneurship.

- Success is not just about personal achievement but also about serving others.

- Celebrating small wins helps in recognizing progress.

Sound Bites

"The secret is your team."

"I wanted to do my own thing."

"You have to walk the talk."

Chapters

00:00 Introduction to David Barbeito

01:08 The Importance of Team and Growth

05:43 David's Journey into Accounting

13:43 Passion Meets Profession

18:01 Transitioning to Independence

24:54 Reflections on Success and Future Goals

26:07 The Pursuit of Goals and Growth Mindset

28:37 Heritage and Sacrifices: A Family Legacy

30:55 Navigating Change: The Leap into Entrepreneurship

35:45 Building a Firm: The Entrepreneurial Journey

41:01 Technology and Client Experience in Accounting

45:24 The Value of Public Accounting: A Career Perspective

46:10 Personal Insights: Life Beyond the Office

47:56 Rapid Fire Questions: Quick Insights

Connect with David:

LinkedIn personal - https://www.linkedin.com/in/barbeitocpa/