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From Rocket Science to Financial Frontiers: Ben Risser’s Journey as a Visionary CFO

43m · Building the Premier Accounting Firm · 08 May 07:00

Welcome to another enlightening episode of Building the Premier Accounting Firm with Roger Knecht, the podcast for owners of accounting businesses and accounting professionals. Today, Ben Risser, the visionary behind Provident Financial Services, joins Roger to share his unique path from aerospace engineering to becoming a highly sought-after fractional CFO. Here are the main themes from the episode.

  • The Multifaceted Role of a CFO: Ben sheds light on the critical importance of CFOs in working alongside business owners. He emphasizes the role of CFOs in ensuring financial clarity, fostering growth, and managing cash flows efficiently.

  • Transitioning Careers: Hear about Ben’s remarkable journey from the world of aerospace engineering to real estate, and finally to finance, where he has made a significant impact. Ben’s story is a testament to the power of transferable skills and the importance of financial intelligence in any industry.

  • Financial Intelligence for Small Businesses: Roger and Ben discuss why clear reporting and a deep understanding of a company’s financial trajectory are non-negotiable for small businesses.

  • The Evolution of Financial Roles: Roger and Ben explore the shift from traditional compliance roles in finance to more advisory positions. Ben discusses how this evolution affects businesses and the growing need for financial education among executives.

  • Support Systems: The significance of family support and the impact of personal relationships on professional success form a heartwarming part of Ben’s story. It’s a reminder of the human element in the cutthroat world of business and finance.

  • A Non-Traditional Path to CFO: With no formal accounting training, Ben’s approach to the CFO role is unconventional yet incredibly effective. This segment is particularly inspiring for those feeling constrained by their current career paths or educational backgrounds.

Conclusion:

Ben Risser’s journey is a compelling narrative of career evolution, overcoming personal challenges, and the undeniable importance of financial literacy and strategic management in today’s business landscape. Whether you’re an aspiring CFO, a business owner, or simply someone interested in the transformative power of financial intelligence, this episode offers rich insights and inspiration.

Tune in to gain a deeper understanding of the financial intricacies that drive business success and the human stories behind them.

Sponsors:

Universal Accounting Center

  • Helping accounting professionals confidently and competently offer quality accounting services to get paid what they are worth.

Offers:

Ben is offering his free guide "From Sales to Equity: What your financial statements are trying to tell you about your business" Get your copy now: www.providentfinancialservicesltd.com

Get a FREE copy of these books all accounting professionals should use to work on their business and become profitable. These are a must-have addition to every accountant’s library to provide quality CFO & Advisory services as a Profit & Growth Expert today:

  • “Red to BLACK in 30 days – A small business accountant’s guide to QUICK turnarounds” – This is a how-to guide on how to turn around a struggling business into a more sustainable model. Each chapter focuses on a crucial aspect of the turnaround process - from cash flow management to strategies for improving revenue. This book will teach you everything you need to become a turnaround expert for small businesses.

  • “in the BLACK, nine principles to make your business profitable” – Nine Principles to Make Your Business Profitable – Discover what you need to know to run the premier accounting firm and get paid what you are worth in this book, by the same author as Red to Black – CPA Allen B. Bostrom. Bostrom teaches the three major functions of business (marketing, production and accounting) as well as strategies for maximizing profitability for your clients by creating actionable plans to implement the nine principles.

  • “Your Strategic Accountant” - Understand the 3 Core Accounting Services you should offer as you run your business. help your clients understand which numbers they need to know to make more informed business decisions.

  • “Your Profit & Growth Expert” - Your business is an asset. You should know its value and understand how to maximize it. Beginning with the end in mind helps you work ON your business to build a company you can leave so that it can continue to exist in your absence or build wealth as you retire and enjoy the time, freedom, and life you want and deserve.

Learn what it is you can do to become an author, leveraging your expertise to market your services effectively and get the clients you deserve. This is a webinar you don’t want to miss. Learn from Mike Capuzzi what a Shook is and how you can use it to position yourself as the Premier Accounting Firm in your area. This is a must-see presentation so get ready to take some great notes.

In addition to becoming an author, see what you can do to follow the Turnkey Business plan for accounting professionals. After more than 40 years we’ve identified the best practices of successful accountants and this is a presentation we are happy to share. Check it out and see what you can do to be in business for yourself but not by yourself with Universal Accounting Center. It’s here you can become a:

  • Professional Bookkeeper, PB

  • Professional Tax Preparer, PTP

  • Profit & Growth Expert, PGE

Next, join a group of like-minded professionals within the accounting community. Stay up-to-date on current topics and trends and see what you can do to also give back, participating in relevant conversations as they relate to offering quality accounting services and building your bookkeeping, accounting & tax business.

  • The Accounting & Bookkeeping Tips Facebook Group

  • The Universal Accounting Fanpage

  • Topical Newsletters:

    • Universal Accounting Success

    • The Universal Newsletter

Lastly, get your Business Score to see what you can do to work ON your business and have the Premier Accounting Firm. Join over 70,000 business owners and get your score on the 8 Factors That Drive Your Company’s Value.

For Additional FREE Resources for accounting professionals check out this collection HERE!

Be sure to join us for GrowCon, the LIVE event for accounting professionals to work ON their business. This is a conference you don’t want to miss.

Remember this, Accounting Success IS Universal.

Listen to our next episode and be sure to subscribe.

Also, let us know what you think of the podcast and please share any suggestions you may have. We look forward to your input: Podcast Feedback

For more information on how you can apply these principles to start and build your accounting, bookkeeping & tax business please visit us at www.universalaccountingschool.com or call us at 8012653777

The episode From Rocket Science to Financial Frontiers: Ben Risser’s Journey as a Visionary CFO from the podcast Building the Premier Accounting Firm has a duration of 43:34. It was first published 08 May 07:00. The cover art and the content belong to their respective owners.

More episodes from Building the Premier Accounting Firm

Mindset, Delegation, and Growth w/ Laurent Notin

Welcome to Building the Premier Accounting Firm with Roger Knecht, where we delve into the essential elements of overcoming business obstacles with Laurent Notin, a dedicated business coach who specializes in guiding entrepreneurs through their journey. Laurent highlights the crucial role of a supportive entrepreneurial environment and the mental resilience needed to thrive in business. The conversation focuses on the sacrifices required for success, the importance of self-care, mental well-being, and maintaining a positive mindset.

Main Topics

  1. Influence of Surroundings:

    • Laurent outlines the significance of a supportive and inspiring entrepreneurial environment.

    • He notes that surroundings can impact an entrepreneur’s mindset and business outcomes.

  2. Mental Resilience and Self-Care:

    • Roger and Laurent exchange strategies for building mental resilience to face business challenges.

    • Laurent explains the importance of self-care and mental well-being in sustaining long-term success.

  3. Personal Growth and Alignment with Values:

    • They frame success as a personal journey aligned with individual values.

    • The importance of personal growth in business development is discussed.

  4. Delegation and Focus:

    • Laurent champions the necessity of delegating non-revenue tasks to prioritize revenue-generating activities.

    • Roger recommends viewing expenses as investments for business growth.

  5. Overcoming Delegation Fears:

    • Techniques to overcome fears associated with delegation through self-awareness and emotional intelligence.

    • Physical awareness techniques to support the delegation process.

  6. Health and Self-Improvement:

    • The role of physical health in entrepreneurial success.

    • Continuous self-improvement and its impact on business.

  7. Gratitude and Self-Empowerment:

    • The importance of expressing gratitude throughout the entrepreneurial journey.

    • Empowering oneself to define and navigate a personal path to success.

Conclusion:
Laurent Notin provides a comprehensive guide for entrepreneurs to overcome business obstacles through mental resilience, effective delegation, and self-care. By focusing on personal growth and aligning with individual values, entrepreneurs can create a sustainable path to success. This episode is a valuable resource for anyone looking to empower themselves and thrive in their entrepreneurial endeavors.


Join us as we explore the journey of entrepreneurship with Lauren Norton and gain insights on how to overcome obstacles, prioritize well-being, and achieve personal and business growth. Don’t forget to check out the resources provided for further support and development.

Sponsors:

Universal Accounting Center

  • Helping accounting professionals confidently and competently offer quality accounting services to get paid what they are worth.

Offers:

My eBook THRIVE: 8 ESSENTIAL TACTICS TO EXCEL AS AN ENTREPRENEUR & PROPEL YOUR BUSINESS FORWARD!, which provides eight practical tactics to propel the business forward and tackle bottlenecks head-on - https://www.laurentnotin.com/get-my-ebook

The Bottleneck Index, an accurate tool to identify, understand, and overcome existing and potential business bottlenecks - https://www.laurentnotin.com/the-bottleneck-index

A free Impact Assessment call with me to receive personalized guidance on how to tackle their bottlenecks - https://www.laurentnotin.com/booking-calendar/free-impact-assessment-call?referral=service_list_widget

Get a FREE copy of these books all accounting professionals should use to work on their business and become profitable. These are a must-have addition to every accountant’s library to provide quality CFO & Advisory services as a Profit & Growth Expert today:

  • “Red to BLACK in 30 days – A small business accountant’s guide to QUICK turnarounds” – This is a how-to guide on how to turn around a struggling business into a more sustainable model. Each chapter focuses on a crucial aspect of the turnaround process - from cash flow management to strategies for improving revenue. This book will teach you everything you need to become a turnaround expert for small businesses.

  • “in the BLACK, nine principles to make your business profitable” – Nine Principles to Make Your Business Profitable – Discover what you need to know to run the premier accounting firm and get paid what you are worth in this book, by the same author as Red to Black – CPA Allen B. Bostrom. Bostrom teaches the three major functions of business (marketing, production and accounting) as well as strategies for maximizing profitability for your clients by creating actionable plans to implement the nine principles.

  • “Your Strategic Accountant” - Understand the 3 Core Accounting Services you should offer as you run your business. help your clients understand which numbers they need to know to make more informed business decisions.

  • “Your Profit & Growth Expert” - Your business is an asset. You should know its value and understand how to maximize it. Beginning with the end in mind helps you work ON your business to build a company you can leave so that it can continue to exist in your absence or build wealth as you retire and enjoy the time, freedom, and life you want and deserve.

Learn what it is you can do to become an author, leveraging your expertise to market your services effectively and get the clients you deserve. This is a webinar you don’t want to miss. Learn from Mike Capuzzi what a Shook is and how you can use it to position yourself as the Premier Accounting Firm in your area. This is a must-see presentation so get ready to take some great notes.

In addition to becoming an author, see what you can do to follow the Turnkey Business plan for accounting professionals. After more than 40 years we’ve identified the best practices of successful accountants and this is a presentation we are happy to share. Check it out and see what you can do to be in business for yourself but not by yourself with Universal Accounting Center. It’s here you can become a:

  • Professional Bookkeeper, PB

  • Professional Tax Preparer, PTP

  • Profit & Growth Expert, PGE

Next, join a group of like-minded professionals within the accounting community. Stay up-to-date on current topics and trends and see what you can do to also give back, participating in relevant conversations as they relate to offering quality accounting services and building your bookkeeping, accounting & tax business.

  • The Accounting & Bookkeeping Tips Facebook Group

  • The Universal Accounting Fanpage

  • Topical Newsletters:

    • Universal Accounting Success

    • The Universal Newsletter

Lastly, get your Business Score to see what you can do to work ON your business and have the Premier Accounting Firm. Join over 70,000 business owners and get your score on the 8 Factors That Drive Your Company’s Value.

For Additional FREE Resources for accounting professionals check out this collection HERE!

Be sure to join us for GrowCon, the LIVE event for accounting professionals to work ON their business. This is a conference you don’t want to miss.

Remember this, Accounting Success IS Universal.

Listen to our next episode and be sure to subscribe.

Also, let us know what you think of the podcast and please share any suggestions you may have. We look forward to your input: Podcast Feedback

For more information on how you can apply these principles to start and build your accounting, bookkeeping & tax business please visit us at www.universalaccountingschool.com or call us at 8012653777

This Week on BPAF : Laurent Notin

Join us this Wednesday for a new episode where Roger discusses entrepreneurship and mental fitness with Laurent Notin.

Revolutionary Remote-first Strategies w/ Jason Snider

Welcome to another insightful episode of “Building the Premier Accounting Firm,” where we delve into the transformative journey of Jason Snyder, the pioneering mind behind Aspire Advisors and Summa Ecommerce Advisors. Today, Jason shares his unique approach to modernizing accounting practices by emphasizing business advisory services and embracing remote-first business models. Here’s what we covered:

Main Themes:

  • Introduction to Jason Snyder: Discover the visionary entrepreneur who has redefined accounting services by prioritizing advisory roles and combating entrepreneurial poverty through the Profit First system.

  • Profit First System: Learn about Jason’s implementation of this revolutionary system to help businesses better manage their finances and ensure sustainable growth.

  • Building Remote-first Businesses: Insight into Jason’s strategy for creating successful, remote-first entities, focusing on the advantages and methods of managing international teams, particularly in the Philippines.

  • Hiring Practices and Team Building: Jason discusses his effective hiring strategies, from offering competitive salaries to conducting skill-based assessments, and the importance of direct relationships with employees to foster a positive work environment.

  • Importance of Financial Statements and Data: Uncover the critical role comprehensive financial statements play in understanding a business’s story through its numbers and how Jason coaches entrepreneurs to utilize this data effectively.

  • Leadership and Communication: Explore Jason’s views on the essential qualities of leadership, including curiosity and a genuine care for team members, and how technology like Loom videos can enhance client communication.

  • Client Empowerment through Financial Insight: Jason advocates for empowering clients with insightful financial reports, stressing the necessity for entrepreneurs to understand their financials deeply.

  • Personal Interests and Work-Life Balance: A glimpse into how personal interests, such as sports, are crucial for maintaining a healthy work-life balance and overall well-being.

  • Advice for Aspiring Accounting Firms: Jason shares valuable insights and strategies for accounting firms aiming to transition towards more advisory-focused practices and leverage international talent.

Key Takeaways:

  • Embrace remote work and international hiring to access a wider pool of expertise and foster a diverse, skilled team.

  • Prioritize business advisory services and financial coaching to add value beyond traditional accounting practices.

  • Implement systems like Profit First to guide businesses away from financial instability towards sustainable growth.

  • Leadership qualities, such as curiosity and genuine care for people, are indispensable in building successful, people-focused businesses.

  • Technology and clear communication are essential tools in enhancing client relationships and ensuring that financial data translates into actionable insights.

Thank you for tuning in to “Building the Premier Accounting Firm.” Don’t forget to subscribe for more episodes on transforming the accounting landscape through innovation and leadership.

Sponsors:

Universal Accounting Center

  • Helping accounting professionals confidently and competently offer quality accounting services to get paid what they are worth.

Offers:

Get a FREE copy of these books all accounting professionals should use to work on their business and become profitable. These are a must-have addition to every accountant’s library to provide quality CFO & Advisory services as a Profit & Growth Expert today:

  • “Red to BLACK in 30 days – A small business accountant’s guide to QUICK turnarounds” – This is a how-to guide on how to turn around a struggling business into a more sustainable model. Each chapter focuses on a crucial aspect of the turnaround process - from cash flow management to strategies for improving revenue. This book will teach you everything you need to become a turnaround expert for small businesses.

  • “in the BLACK, nine principles to make your business profitable” – Nine Principles to Make Your Business Profitable – Discover what you need to know to run the premier accounting firm and get paid what you are worth in this book, by the same author as Red to Black – CPA Allen B. Bostrom. Bostrom teaches the three major functions of business (marketing, production and accounting) as well as strategies for maximizing profitability for your clients by creating actionable plans to implement the nine principles.

  • “Your Strategic Accountant” - Understand the 3 Core Accounting Services you should offer as you run your business. help your clients understand which numbers they need to know to make more informed business decisions.

  • “Your Profit & Growth Expert” - Your business is an asset. You should know its value and understand how to maximize it. Beginning with the end in mind helps you work ON your business to build a company you can leave so that it can continue to exist in your absence or build wealth as you retire and enjoy the time, freedom, and life you want and deserve.

Learn what it is you can do to become an author, leveraging your expertise to market your services effectively and get the clients you deserve. This is a webinar you don’t want to miss. Learn from Mike Capuzzi what a Shook is and how you can use it to position yourself as the Premier Accounting Firm in your area. This is a must-see presentation so get ready to take some great notes.

In addition to becoming an author, see what you can do to follow the Turnkey Business plan for accounting professionals. After more than 40 years we’ve identified the best practices of successful accountants and this is a presentation we are happy to share. Check it out and see what you can do to be in business for yourself but not by yourself with Universal Accounting Center. It’s here you can become a:

  • Professional Bookkeeper, PB

  • Professional Tax Preparer, PTP

  • Profit & Growth Expert, PGE

Next, join a group of like-minded professionals within the accounting community. Stay up-to-date on current topics and trends and see what you can do to also give back, participating in relevant conversations as they relate to offering quality accounting services and building your bookkeeping, accounting & tax business.

  • The Accounting & Bookkeeping Tips Facebook Group

  • The Universal Accounting Fanpage

  • Topical Newsletters:

    • Universal Accounting Success

    • The Universal Newsletter

Lastly, get your Business Score to see what you can do to work ON your business and have the Premier Accounting Firm. Join over 70,000 business owners and get your score on the 8 Factors That Drive Your Company’s Value.

For Additional FREE Resources for accounting professionals check out this collection HERE!

Be sure to join us for GrowCon, the LIVE event for accounting professionals to work ON their business. This is a conference you don’t want to miss.

Remember this, Accounting Success IS Universal.

Listen to our next episode and be sure to subscribe.

Also, let us know what you think of the podcast and please share any suggestions you may have. We look forward to your input: Podcast Feedback

For more information on how you can apply these principles to start and build your accounting, bookkeeping & tax business please visit us at www.universalaccountingschool.com or call us at 8012653777

This Week on BPAF : Jason Snider

Join us this Wednesday for a new episode where Roger discusses team building and remote work with Jason Snider

Transforming Your LinkedIn into a Client-Generating Powerhouse w/ John Nemo

In this insightful episode of Building the Premier Accounting Firm, host Roger Knetch welcomes John Nemo, a renowned LinkedIn expert, who shares his transformative journey from a corporate job to generating $135,000 in new business within just 90 days using LinkedIn. Nemo’s expertise offers invaluable guidance for accountants and entrepreneurs aiming to harness the power of LinkedIn for lead generation and client acquisition.

Key Discussion Points:

  1. LinkedIn Profile Optimization:

    • Transformation from Resume to Marketing Tool: Nemo emphasizes the importance of revamping LinkedIn profiles to focus on the value and benefits offered to target audiences rather than listing job histories.

    • Profile Elements: Practical tips on optimizing header images, professional headshots, and showcasing expertise and problem-solving abilities.

    • First Impressions: The critical role of clear, professional photos in making strong first impressions.

  2. Effective LinkedIn Strategies:

    • Sales Navigator: Leveraging this tool for targeted searches to find the right prospects.

    • Personalized Connection Requests: The importance of customizing messages to engage meaningfully with potential clients.

    • One-on-One Interactions: Strategies for building rapport through personalized messages before discussing business opportunities.

    • Networking and Maintaining Connections: Utilizing professional groups and continuous engagement to build a robust network.

  3. Positioning as a Problem Solver:

    • Human Connection: Nemo underscores the significance of connecting on a human level to attract and retain clients.

    • Showcasing Expertise: How to effectively communicate your ability to solve clients’ problems.

  4. Marketing Strategies for Accountants:

    • Authenticity in Branding: The necessity of being genuine in business interactions and branding efforts.

    • Mindset for Success: Overcoming fear and doubt through visualization, positive self-talk, and resources like “Psycho-Cybernetics.”

  5. Additional Resources and Events:

    • Universal Accounting: Resources available on universalaccounting.com for further learning and support.

    • GrowCon Event: Encouragement to attend this event for networking and gaining insights from other business owners.

Conclusion: This episode is a treasure trove of actionable advice for anyone looking to leverage LinkedIn for business growth. John Nemo’s insights emphasize the importance of personal engagement, authenticity, and a proactive mindset in achieving success in the digital age. Tune in to learn how to transform your LinkedIn presence into a powerful client-generating tool.

Sponsors:

Universal Accounting Center

  • Helping accounting professionals confidently and competently offer quality accounting services to get paid what they are worth.

Offers:

Get a free copy (audiobook or digital version) of John's Bestselling Book "LinkedIn Riches" online at www.nemomediagroup.com

Listen to John's Podcast "Nemo Radio" online at www.NemoRadio.com

Get a FREE copy of these books all accounting professionals should use to work on their business and become profitable. These are a must-have addition to every accountant’s library to provide quality CFO & Advisory services as a Profit & Growth Expert today:

  • “Red to BLACK in 30 days – A small business accountant’s guide to QUICK turnarounds” – This is a how-to guide on how to turn around a struggling business into a more sustainable model. Each chapter focuses on a crucial aspect of the turnaround process - from cash flow management to strategies for improving revenue. This book will teach you everything you need to become a turnaround expert for small businesses.

  • “in the BLACK, nine principles to make your business profitable” – Nine Principles to Make Your Business Profitable – Discover what you need to know to run the premier accounting firm and get paid what you are worth in this book, by the same author as Red to Black – CPA Allen B. Bostrom. Bostrom teaches the three major functions of business (marketing, production and accounting) as well as strategies for maximizing profitability for your clients by creating actionable plans to implement the nine principles.

  • “Your Strategic Accountant” - Understand the 3 Core Accounting Services you should offer as you run your business. help your clients understand which numbers they need to know to make more informed business decisions.

  • “Your Profit & Growth Expert” - Your business is an asset. You should know its value and understand how to maximize it. Beginning with the end in mind helps you work ON your business to build a company you can leave so that it can continue to exist in your absence or build wealth as you retire and enjoy the time, freedom, and life you want and deserve.

Learn what it is you can do to become an author, leveraging your expertise to market your services effectively and get the clients you deserve. This is a webinar you don’t want to miss. Learn from Mike Capuzzi what a Shook is and how you can use it to position yourself as the Premier Accounting Firm in your area. This is a must-see presentation so get ready to take some great notes.

In addition to becoming an author, see what you can do to follow the Turnkey Business plan for accounting professionals. After more than 40 years we’ve identified the best practices of successful accountants and this is a presentation we are happy to share. Check it out and see what you can do to be in business for yourself but not by yourself with Universal Accounting Center. It’s here you can become a:

  • Professional Bookkeeper, PB

  • Professional Tax Preparer, PTP

  • Profit & Growth Expert, PGE

Next, join a group of like-minded professionals within the accounting community. Stay up-to-date on current topics and trends and see what you can do to also give back, participating in relevant conversations as they relate to offering quality accounting services and building your bookkeeping, accounting & tax business.

  • The Accounting & Bookkeeping Tips Facebook Group

  • The Universal Accounting Fanpage

  • Topical Newsletters:

    • Universal Accounting Success

    • The Universal Newsletter

Lastly, get your Business Score to see what you can do to work ON your business and have the Premier Accounting Firm. Join over 70,000 business owners and get your score on the 8 Factors That Drive Your Company’s Value.

For Additional FREE Resources for accounting professionals check out this collection HERE!

Be sure to join us for GrowCon, the LIVE event for accounting professionals to work ON their business. This is a conference you don’t want to miss.

Remember this, Accounting Success IS Universal.

Listen to our next episode and be sure to subscribe.

Also, let us know what you think of the podcast and please share any suggestions you may have. We look forward to your input: Podcast Feedback

For more information on how you can apply these principles to start and build your accounting, bookkeeping & tax business please visit us at www.universalaccountingschool.com or call us at 8012653777

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