Feeling overwhelmed, underpaid, or stuck in a model that doesn’t serve you or your clients? In this episode, host Brandy Spears sits down with Colin Dunn, Chartered Accountant and Co-Founder of Renew Group, to talk about redesigning tax and accounting firms for clarity, profitability, and sanity.

Colin shares what it means to truly “design a firm that works for you,” how to rethink your client mix, pricing, and service model — and why so many professionals operate by default instead of by design. You’ll also hear his take on burnout, boundaries, transformation through community, and why a firm built on value can actually free up your time.

If you’ve ever thought “there has to be a better way,” this conversation will show you that there is — and how to take the first step toward it.

Why Listen

• Learn how to reduce scope creep and fire the wrong clients

• Hear how advisory pricing and packaging can shift your firm’s future

• Understand the difference between running by default vs. design

• Explore what modern professionals want — and how to attract them

• Get tactical tips for time-blocking, pricing, positioning, and systems

In This Episode

• [00:00:00] Colin’s career journey and the “accidental” launch of Renew Group

• [00:06:00] The root issue most firms don’t see: broken business models

• [00:13:00] Making your firm the #1 client (and why it matters)

• [00:18:00] Pricing with confidence and creating value-led packages

• [00:24:00] Community, accountability, and not reinventing the wheel

• [00:30:00] Hiring advice: Would you work for you?

• [00:36:00] Stop chasing tech and staff — fix your tier one issues

• [00:43:00] 40-hour firms, abundant mindsets, and what comes next

Notable Quotes

• “You can’t attract great team members if your firm isn’t something you’d want to work for.” – Colin Dunn

• “Stop building the plane while flying it. Design your firm — don’t just let it happen.” – Colin Dunn

• “Raise your prices. Fire the wrong clients. Rip off the Band-Aid.” – Colin Dunn

• “Work should fuel your life — not replace it.” – Colin Dunn

Our Guest

Colin Dunn is a Chartered Accountant and Co-Founder of Renew Group, where he helps tax and accounting professionals transform their business models, client relationships, and profitability. With nearly 30 years of experience coaching firm owners and creating global communities, Colin focuses on helping practitioners move from overwhelm to clarity by designing firms that align with their lives — not run them. He’s a speaker, educator, and advocate for the “40-hour firm” mindset, where profitability, team satisfaction, and personal freedom can coexist.

Resource & Links

The Enrolled Agent Advocate Podcast

• The Enrolled Agent Advocate

Brandy Spears

• LinkedIn

• Website - NAEA.org

Colin Dunn

• LinkedIn

• Website - Renew Group
  

In this episode, host Brandy Spears sits down with Nayo Carter-Gray, an Enrolled Agent and the founder of First Step Accounting, a fully virtual, eco-conscious accounting firm. Nayo, a proud tech enthusiast and educator, talks about how her journey from high school accounting class to becoming an advocate for diversity and inclusion in the profession has shaped her career and her practice.

Nayo shares her experience of becoming an EA, how technology has helped her design a virtual paperless firm, and why it’s crucial for tax professionals to embrace tech to improve both client service and work-life balance. She also discusses the importance of inclusivity in the profession, how she works to support underserved communities, and why advocating for the next generation of tax professionals is at the core of her mission.

Why Listen

• Discover how technology can improve small business accounting and client service

• Learn why paperless practices are more efficient and eco-friendly

• Hear how Nayo bridges the gap for underrepresented communities in the profession

• Get advice on pricing, client service, and work-life balance for modern accountants

• Understand how embracing diversity and tech can shape the future of tax work

In this episode:

• [00:00:00] Nayo’s accidental start in accounting and how it became a lifelong passion

• [00:06:00] How Nayo transitioned from corporate to founding a virtual firm

• [00:12:00] The power of tech: QuickBooks, cloud-based solutions, and a paperless practice

• [00:16:00] How Nayo supports underserved communities with tax education

• [00:22:00] The importance of embracing change in tax practices and pricing strategies

• [00:28:00] How Nayo leads with education and fosters a community of growth

• [00:34:00] Overcoming the challenge of balancing work, tech, and human connection

• [00:40:00] Nayo’s leadership role in advocating for more inclusive, innovative tax practices

Notable Quotes

• “You have to show up for yourself first — then you can show up for your clients and your community.” – Nayo Carter-Gray

• “Technology is my love language, but it’s all about using it to serve people, not replace them.” – Nayo Carter-Gray

• “I don’t just teach tax; I teach others how to own their value, take up space, and advocate for themselves.” – Nayo Carter-Gray

• “Our work can’t just be about numbers. It’s about people, relationships, and making an impact.” – Nayo Carter-Gray

Our Guest

Nayo Carter-Gray is an Enrolled Agent and the founder of First Step Accounting, a fully virtual, paperless firm that helps small businesses across the U.S. with cloud-based accounting solutions. With over 25 years of tax and accounting experience, Nayo specializes in helping entrepreneurs simplify their financial processes using technology, ensuring efficiency and eco-friendliness.

Nayo is also a passionate advocate for inclusion in the accounting profession and currently serves as the immediate past chair of the NAEA’s Diversity, Equity, and Inclusion Committee. She has served on advisory boards for Intuit, FreshBooks, and Gusto. Named one of Hubdoc’s Top 50 Cloud Accountants (North America), Nayo is a QuickBooks Online Advanced Certified ProAdvisor who strives to make tax and accounting more accessible, modern, and impactful for underserved communities.

Resource & Links

The Enrolled Agent Advocate Podcast

• The Enrolled Agent Advocate

Brandy Spears

• LinkedIn

• Website - NAEA.org

Nayo Carter Gray, EA

• LinkedIn

• Website - First Step Accounting
  

In this episode of The Enrolled Agent Advocate, host Brandy Spears sits down with David King, CEO of Optima Tax Relief, a leading tax relief firm. With over 12 years of experience in financial services, David shares how he built a client-first culture at Optima, focusing on customer service and creating a company where clients feel heard and supported through the tax resolution process.

David discusses his transition from the mortgage industry to tax relief, the leadership principles that shaped Optima’s growth, and how the “Client Comes First” approach is embedded into every aspect of their business. He also talks about how tax professionals can foster lasting relationships with their clients, and the future of customer service in the tax industry.

This episode is full of insights into leadership, customer service, and the importance of creating trust between clients and tax professionals. Whether you’re a tax pro working directly with clients or running your own firm, David’s approach to client relationships and leadership will resonate.

Why Listen:

• Learn how to build a client-first culture in your tax practice

• Discover the leadership principles that drive Optima Tax Relief

• Hear how a focus on customer service can fuel growth in the tax relief industry

• Get actionable advice on client retention, trust-building, and service excellence

In This Episode:

• [00:00:00] Welcome to the Enrolled Agent Advocate

• [00:01:10] Meet David King: From mortgage leadership to tax relief CEO

• [00:02:50] The importance of customer service in financial services

• [00:04:30] Transitioning from Secured Funding to Optima Tax Relief

• [00:06:00] The power of a “Client Comes First” approach

• [00:08:20] What makes Optima Tax Relief stand out in a crowded market

• [00:11:00] How sales management practices in mortgage applied to tax relief

• [00:13:00] Building trust: How to make clients feel heard and supported

• [00:15:00] Developing leadership in your tax firm or company

• [00:17:30] The future of customer service in the tax industry

• [00:19:00] Advice for tax professionals looking to grow their practice

• [00:21:15] What’s next for Optima Tax Relief and David’s vision for the company

• [00:23:00] Final thoughts and takeaways on leadership and customer service

Notable Quotes

• “The key to growth is making sure your clients always feel like they come first.” — David King

• “In any service industry, if you’re not creating trust, you’re not creating clients for life.” — David King

• “Building a client-first culture isn’t just about selling—it’s about long-term relationships.” — David King

• “Customer service can be your strongest differentiator in a competitive market.” — David King

Our Guest

David King is the CEO of Optima Tax Relief, bringing over 12 years of experience in growing and leading financial services firms. With a focus on client-first principles, David played a pivotal role in shaping Optima’s success, establishing a culture of service excellence and client advocacy. Before joining Optima, David held a leadership position at Secured Funding, where he pioneered best practices in sales management in the mortgage industry. Today, David continues to lead Optima Tax Relief with a focus on innovation, customer care, and making tax relief accessible for individuals in need.

Resource & Links

The Enrolled Agent Advocate Podcast

• The Enrolled Agent Advocate

Brandy Spears

• LinkedIn

• Website - NAEA.org

David King

• LinkedIn

• Website - Optima Tax Relief
  

In this powerful episode, host Brandy Spears is joined by Ruben D. Valdes, EA, one of fewer than 250 non-attorneys admitted to practice before the United States Tax Court. From preparing returns in his mother’s office to becoming a nationally recognized instructor and advocate, Ruben shares how the EA credential helped him elevate his career — and expand taxpayer access to justice.

Ruben opens up about how he passed the U.S. Tax Court exam, the stories behind high-stakes audits, and why Spanish-speaking communities are disproportionately vulnerable when facing the IRS. He also shares hard truths about burnout in representation work, and why the tax profession needs more education, more empathy, and more EAs.

This episode is part inspiration, part instruction, and a call to action for enrolled agents to step into the full power of their credential.

Why Listen

• Hear how Ruben transitioned from tax prep to full-time IRS representation

• Learn how he passed the U.S. Tax Court exam as a non-attorney

• Understand how language and education affect taxpayer rights and access

• Discover how the EA credential opens doors to high-level advocacy

• Get practical insights into tax controversy, client care, and boundaries

  
  

In This Episode:

• [00:00:00] From family firm to federal tax court: Ruben’s story

• [00:06:00] Choosing the EA path over law school

• [00:08:00] What the U.S. Tax Court exam really takes

• [00:14:00] Advocacy in action: when audits go too far

• [00:22:00] The language gap: how Spanish-speaking taxpayers fall behind

• [00:30:00] Why it’s time for more EAs to step up — and show up

Notable Quotes

• “The enrolled agent credential gave me the power to protect taxpayers — and a purpose I didn’t expect.” – Ruben D. Valdes

• “Most people invite me after the party. But if they brought me in earlier, they’d save thousands.” – Ruben D. Valdes

• “Tax law is complicated in English. Now imagine reading it when English isn’t your first language.” – Ruben D. Valdes

• “I don’t write the songs — I just sing them. Don’t blame your tax pro for the law.” – Ruben D. Valdes

Our Guest

Ruben D. Valdes, EA, USTCP is the founder of National Tax Problem Solutions, where he specializes in representing clients in IRS examinations, collections, and appeals. He is one of fewer than 250 non-attorneys in the U.S. admitted to practice before the United States Tax Court.

A nationally recognized tax instructor and author, Ruben has developed and taught both foundational and advanced courses in areas such as international tax, tax controversy, and strategic planning. His mission centers on educating both taxpayers and practitioners — particularly Spanish-speaking communities — about their rights and responsibilities under the tax law.

He authored Manejando Auditorías: Herramientas poderosas ante el IRS, the first Spanish-language book on handling IRS audits, and contributed to the EA Journal with his article “Tax Court Says: IRS Timely Responded, Your Offer is Not Deemed Accepted” (Dec. 2022). Ruben is a firm believer that high-level education leads to higher voluntary compliance and more equitable outcomes in tax administration.

Resource & Links

The Enrolled Agent Advocate Podcast

• The Enrolled Agent Advocate

Brandy Spears

• LinkedIn

• Website - NAEA.org

Ruben D Valdes, EA, USTCP

• LinkedIn

• Website - National Tax Problem Solutions
  

In this episode, host Brandy Spears speaks with Timalyn Bowens, EA, founder of Bowens Tax Solutions and known by many as “America’s Favorite EA.” From long nights at Crowe Horwath to launching a nationally recognized tax resolution firm, Timalyn shares how a career rooted in empathy, advocacy, and education transformed both her life and the lives of her clients.

She opens up about a defining moment that shifted her mission — helping a stranger in tears over a small IRS bill — and how it pushed her to embrace the EA credential and stand in the gap for people afraid to face the IRS alone. Timalyn also discusses launching two podcasts, mentoring future tax pros, and how enrolled agents can lead with confidence and compassion.

This episode is a powerful reminder of what it means to be a true advocate. If you’re ready to lead with purpose, represent with pride, and serve from a place of impact — this one’s for you.

Why Listen

• Discover how Timalyn built a mission-driven tax practice from scratch

• Learn how enrolled agents can use empathy and education to lead

• Hear how a single client encounter shaped a lifelong career of advocacy

• Get inspired by her work mentoring new EAs through content and community

• Understand how to walk fully in your EA authority — and why it matters

In This Episode:

• [00:00:00] From Crowe Horwath to launching Bowens Tax Solutions

• [00:06:00] The emotional moment that redefined her career

• [00:12:00] Helping an expat client under IRS levy during COVID

• [00:18:00] Taxpayer misconceptions and the power of representation

• [00:26:00] Starting a podcast to support and educate new EAs

• [00:33:00] Mentorship, outreach, and standing in EA authority

Notable Quotes:

• “We literally can mess up someone’s life or fix it. That’s how serious this work is.” – Timalyn Bowens

• “You can’t sell something you don’t believe you have. EAs need to walk in their authority.” – Timalyn Bowens

• “The EA credential gave me permission to help the people who needed me the most.” – Timalyn Bowens

• “It’s not just about solving tax problems — it’s about restoring peace.” – Timalyn Bowens

Our Guest

Timalyn S. Bowens, EA is the founder of Bowens Tax Solutions, where she represents individuals and small businesses before the IRS. She began her tax career in 2011, interned with top-10 firm Crowe Horwath, and launched her own practice in 2016. After becoming an enrolled agent, she shifted her focus fully to IRS representation in 2021.

Timalyn is an active member of the National Association of Enrolled Agents (NAEA), serving on both the Membership and Nominating Committees. She also serves on Bellarmine University’s Alumni Board, is a University Ambassador, and supports unhoused women in Louisville through the S.O.S. community outreach program.

Resource & Links

The Enrolled Agent Advocate Podcast

• The Enrolled Agent Advocate

Brandy Spears

• LinkedIn

• Website - NAEA.org

Timalyn Bowens, EA

• LinkedIn

• Website - Bowens Tax Solutions

• Podcast - Tax Relief with Timalyn Bowens
  

In this special legislative update episode, host Brandy Spears is joined by Megan Killian, CAE (Executive VP of NAEA) and Thad Inge (VP at Van Scoyoc Associates) for an in-depth breakdown of the recently passed, sweeping federal tax legislation — a complex but critical milestone that will impact practitioners and taxpayers alike.

Together, they unpack how the bill got passed, the most significant tax provisions extended or introduced, and the implications for representation, planning, and compliance. From the child tax credit and standard deduction to SALT cap revisions, TCJA extensions, and four brand-new deductions (tips, overtime, seniors, and auto loan interest), this conversation covers what you need to know — and what’s coming next.

If you’re an EA wondering how to support your clients through these upcoming changes — or how to get involved in shaping implementation — this episode offers insight and clarity straight from D.C.

Why Listen

• Understand key provisions extended or made permanent under the latest bill

• Learn about new deductions (tips, overtime, senior income, and auto interest)

• Hear how the TCJA changes impact individual and business taxpayers

• Explore the role EAs and NAEA can play in shaping federal tax guidance

• Get insight into what's next on Congress’s tax and regulatory agenda

In This Episode:

• [00:00:00] Setting the stage: how the bill passed under pressure

• [00:04:00] What got extended from TCJA and why it matters

• [00:06:00] The SALT cap compromise and what changed for high-tax states

• [00:10:00] Individual and family updates: CTC, estate tax, and paid leave

• [00:13:00] Breaking down the four new deductions (tips, OT, seniors, car loans)

• [00:19:00] Business provisions: 199A, R&D expensing, depreciation, interest rules

• [00:22:00] New Treasury & IRS leadership and guidance rollout timelines

• [00:24:00] How EAs and NAEA can influence policy through feedback

• [00:28:00] What Congress may do next — and what likely won’t be reversed

Notable Quotes

• “This legislation doesn’t just live on paper — it shows up in the lives of clients and in the work you do every day.” – Megan Killian

• “There’s a thousand pages in this bill, and we’re just scratching the surface.” – Thad Inge

• “If EAs have good points to make, we can get those in front of Treasury. But we need that member feedback.” – Thad Inge

• “Staying informed and engaged matters — this is where policy meets practice.” – Brandy Spears

Our Guests

Megan Killian, CAE is the Executive Vice President of the National Association of Enrolled Agents. With over 20 years of executive leadership experience in membership organizations, she brings deep expertise in strategic development, change management, and team building. Prior to joining NAEA, Meg led member relations at the Pennsylvania Institute of Certified Public Accountants and has been a strong advocate for diversity and inclusion in the profession.

Thad Inge is the Vice President at Van Scoyoc Associates (VSA), where he helps clients navigate legislative and regulatory issues, specializing in tax, small business, benefits, fintech, and payments. Before VSA, Thad led government relations at Paychex, Inc., and held roles at the U.S. Small Business Administration and U.S. Senate Committee on Small Business & Entrepreneurship. He holds a degree from Georgetown University and a law degree from the University of Miami School of Law.

Resource & Links

The Enrolled Agent Advocate Podcast

• The Enrolled Agent Advocate

Brandy Spears

• LinkedIn

• Website - NAEA.org

Megan Killian

• LinkedIn

Thad Inge

• LinkedIn
  

What does it look like to build a meaningful career, serve your profession, and still know when to hand off the baton?

In this episode of The Enrolled Agent Advocate, host Brandy Spears speaks with Jennifer MacMillan, EA, a seasoned tax professional with over 30 years of experience in representation, education, and leadership. From building a client-first tax practice in California to serving as Chair of the IRSAC and now President of NAEA, Jennifer shares how she found her voice in advocacy—and why ethics, community, and continuous education are at the heart of everything she does.

Jennifer discusses selling her practice, navigating semi-retirement, and what she's focused on as NAEA prepares to support members through a shifting IRS landscape. Her story offers real talk for EAs at every stage—from newcomers building their niche to veterans ready to pass the torch.

Why You Should Listen

• Learn how to design a practice with purpose and long-term value

• Understand the power of niching and building a sale-ready business

• Get insights into how the EA profession is evolving through advocacy

• Find out what NAEA is doing to support members in a changing IRS environment

In This Episode:

• [00:00:00] Meet Jennifer MacMillan: EA since 1994

• [00:02:07] Discovering the EA credential by chance

• [00:03:24] From $750K to $500: Her first OIC and what hooked her

• [00:05:11] Building a practice that’s easy to sell

• [00:06:41] Transitioning into semi-retirement and finding the right buyer

• [00:08:04] The value of a strong professional network

• [00:08:49] Making ethics engaging—and essential

• [00:10:28] Her leadership impact at CSEA and IRSAC

• [00:13:16] On becoming NAEA President-Elect

• [00:14:00] Goals for her term and navigating IRS restructuring

• [00:17:09] Embracing technology, CE, and advisory growth

• [00:18:44] Raising awareness: Why every EA should speak up

• [00:21:22] Engaging the next generation of EAs

• [00:23:38] Strengthening IRS relationships

• [00:25:34] Challenges ahead—and where the opportunities lie

• [00:27:00] Advice for those just starting out

• [00:28:25] How to connect with Jennifer + a shoutout to NTPI

Notable Quotes

• “The key to life is recognizing opportunity when it shows up—and taking it.” — Jennifer MacMillan

• “You get to decide who takes up your time. Build your business around that.” — Jennifer MacMillan

• “Being an EA means you're the expert. But being a member of NAEA means you’re never alone.” — Jennifer MacMillan

• “Ethics education doesn’t have to be boring. It can—and should—be fun and meaningful.” — Jennifer MacMillan

About Our Guest

Jennifer MacMillan, EA has been an Enrolled Agent since 1994, specializing in individual income tax preparation and representation. She ran a successful solo practice in Santa Barbara, California, before selling it in 2019 and transitioning to semi-retirement in Colorado. A Fellow of NTPI, Jennifer has taught extensively for NTPI, CSEA, and Spidell Publishing. She is a past President of CSEA, former Chair of IRSAC, and currently serves as President-Elect of NAEA for 2024–2025. Her career has been defined by service, leadership, and a passion for educating and empowering tax professionals.

Resource & Links

The Enrolled Agent Advocate Podcast

• The Enrolled Agent Advocate

Brandy Spears

• LinkedIn

• Website - NAEA.org

Jennifer MacMillan

• LinkedIn

• Website
  

In this special edition, host Brandy Spears welcomes Scott Scarano, EA, an unconventional firm owner, rapper, and host of the popular podcast Accounting High. Scott blends deep entrepreneurial insight with artistic flair — sharing how his rocky start gave rise to a multimillion-dollar firm, how he learned to scale by getting out of the way, and why deep work and creativity matter now more than ever.

Scott talks openly about his early missteps in business, his decision to pursue the EA credential, and how cloud technology and soft skills helped him build Padgett Business Services in Raleigh from $90K to over $1.5M in revenue. Plus, he opens up about fatherhood, finding fulfilment in creativity, and how rapping about accounting helped him connect with the profession in new ways.

Whether you're leading a team, building a brand, or just looking to break the “boring accountant” mold, Scott brings refreshing, real talk to this conversation — with a few punchlines (and rhyme lines) along the way.

Why Listen

• Learn how to scale a firm by letting go of control and building structure

• Discover how creative expression can energize your work and your brand

• Understand how soft skills and empathy drive client trust in representation

• Explore how enrolled agents are reshaping the tax profession in unexpected ways

• Get inspired to create a business that works — and plays — with purpose

In This Episode:

• [00:00:00] From arrest record to respected EA and firm owner

• [00:06:00] Merging creativity and tax: performer meets practitioner

• [00:12:00] The EA credential, IRS rep work, and why he let it lapse

• [00:18:00] How empathy, patience, and problem-solving define a great rep

• [00:26:00] Family, Dr. Seuss rap videos, and building balance through fun

• [00:30:00] Why he’s taking the EA stage at Tax Summit 2025

Notable Quotes:

• “Business is business. People are people. Whether you're on the stoop or in the boardroom.” – Scott Scarano

• “You want to please everyone, but if you never say no, you'll never protect your time.” – Scott Scarano

• “What you learn from the streets, the classroom can’t teach. I built my firm on human connection.” – Scott Scarano

• “Rapping about taxes? It just made sense. You’ve gotta speak on what you know.” – Scott Scarano

Our Guest

Scott Scarano, EA is the owner of Padgett Business Services Raleigh, where he scaled the firm from $90K to over $1.5M in revenue. Known for his bold creativity and deep industry insight, Scott is also the voice behind Accounting High, a podcast and YouTube channel for firm owners, and performs as “OKR” (OK Rapper), turning tax and accounting themes into smart, lyrical storytelling.

Scott believes in the power of learning through doing, managing through empathy, and finding joy in work and life. Outside the office, he's raising three kids, producing rap music with them, and reimagining what it means to be an EA in today’s world.

Resource & Links

The Enrolled Agent Advocate Podcast

• The Enrolled Agent Advocate

Brandy Spears

• LinkedIn

• Website - NAEA.org

Scott Scarano

• LinkedIn

• LinkedIn - Padgett Raleigh

• Website - Padgett Raleigh