Welcome to The CFO Project Podcast, where host Adam Lean helps accountants, bookkeepers, and CFOs build profitable, advisory-driven firms that clients love. Each episode dives deep into the business side of accounting—how to attract clients, scale advisory services, and create a thriving firm that delivers real value. Whether you’re a seasoned CFO or just beginning to shift away from compliance work, this show will help you master the mindset and tools to grow smarter.

In this episode, Adam is joined by Lee Reams, CEO of CountingWorks PRO, to discuss how referrals and client discovery are evolving in the age of ChatGPT and AI. Lee explains why traditional referral loops are being replaced by digital ecosystems where AI tools—like ChatGPT, Perplexity, and Gemini—shape how clients find and evaluate firms. He breaks down how accountants can “feed the machine” through structured content, local SEO, and storytelling that differentiates them from generic firms. If you want to stay relevant, protect your referral flow, and future-proof your marketing in an AI-driven world, this episode is a must-watch for every accountant and virtual CFO.

Welcome to The CFO Project Podcast, where host Adam Lean helps accountants and CFOs escape the “accountant’s trap” and build thriving, profitable firms through real-world strategies. Each week, Adam interviews industry leaders, entrepreneurs, and CFOs who share their best insights on running a business, building advisory services, and adding lasting value for clients.

In this episode, Adam is joined by Roger Knecht, President of Universal Accounting, to break down what it really takes to be a successful advisor. They explore how the accounting profession is shifting from simply reporting the past to helping clients shape the future — and how firm owners can seize this opportunity. Roger explains the two key factors that determine advisor success, why business owners care more about benefits than features, and how to overcome imposter syndrome by taking action before you feel “ready.” If you want to build confidence, connect with business owners on a deeper level, and position yourself as their trusted guide, this episode is packed with practical advice you can implement right away.

Welcome to The CFO Project Podcast, where host Adam Lean helps accountants and CFOs grow their firms, escape the “accountant’s trap,” and deliver more value to business owners. Each week, Adam interviews top experts and leaders in the accounting profession to share practical strategies for building profitable, advisory-focused practices that make a real difference for clients.

In this episode, Adam sits down with Eric Green, founder of Tax Rep Network, to talk about one of the most powerful ways to win and retain clients: solving their tax problems. Eric shares why tax representation is not only a lucrative revenue stream but also one of the best ways to build trust with clients at a critical moment in their business journey. They discuss how leading with solutions to urgent tax issues positions you as a trusted advisor, opens the door for long-term relationships, and creates opportunities to offer higher-value CFO and advisory services. If you want to stand out from competitors and turn one-time tax issues into loyal clients for life, this is an episode you can’t miss.