In this candid conversation, CPA Ellen Sulistio joins host Mike Potenza to recount her fascinating career journey. She describes her unexpected leap from psychology student to CPA, a decade-long audit career at PwC, an advisory stint at Deloitte, and her current role heading accounting advisory at the subscription-based start-up CPA Club, where she guides firms through the new QC 1000 quality-control standard. You won’t want to miss Ellen’s story, which spotlights the power of mentorship, continuous learning, and work-life balance, all while earning recognition as a 2025 “Woman to Watch.”

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Cool Careers in Accounting Ep. 24 - Redefining Public Accounting with Ellen Sulistio

Marketing executive Eric Elmore distills decades of experience into actionable guidance for CPA firms of any size. Drawing parallels between political campaigns and professional services, he shows how to craft a distinct brand persona, deploy laser-focused digital tactics, and harness CRM data to prove ROI. Elmore tackles common CPA roadblocks—seasonal crunches, reluctance to self-promote—and offers low-cost wins like thought-leadership blogs and local board service. His mantra—“be kind, give first, and track everything”—illustrates how consistent, metrics-driven storytelling can turn prospects into loyal advocates.

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Balancing the Future Ep. 29 - From Brand to ROI: A Guide to Modern CPA Marketing with Eric Elmore

Host Mike Potenza sits down with Paul Perry, a CPA turned cybersecurity leader, to explore how a passion for data analytics and risk management reshaped his career.  Starting as a financial auditor, Perry evolved to lead Warren Averett's Risk Advisory and Assurance Services group, specializing in cybersecurity, data analytics, and IT controls. Perry demonstrates how combining accounting knowledge with technology skills creates exceptional value in today's business environment, while maintaining that AI will enhance rather than replace the accounting profession. If you’re an aspiring or seasoned accountant eager to future-proof your skills, this conversation is for you!

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Cool Careers in Accounting Ep. 23 - Cybersecurity, AI, and the Modern CPA with Paul Perry

Mark Gallegos, Tax Partner at Porte Brown, and his guest, Marty Finn, delve into some of the leading tax topics of the day. In this episode, they discuss turning complex succession and estate decisions into actionable plans—balancing control, fairness among heirs, liquidity, and efficiency.

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Tax News Now Ep. 11 - Beyond the Numbers: Family-Centered Succession and Estate Planning Strategies with Martin Finn

CPA and cannabis expert Naomi Granger joins host Chris Mitchell to unpack the unique financial landscape of a state-legal yet federally illegal industry. She explains how Section 280E’s tax bite, cash-only banking hurdles and patchwork state rules squeeze operators, why strong inventory and cash controls are vital, and where accountants can add value as CFO-level advisors. Granger also highlights her National Association of Cannabis Accounting & Tax Professionals, a forthcoming exposé on 280E’s constitutionality, and the ongoing fight for banking access and legislative reform.  Join us for a crash course in turning passion for cannabis into sustainable, auditable profits.

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Balancing the Future Ep. 28 - Navigating the World of Cannabis Accounting with Naomi Granger

In this Cool Careers in Accounting episode, host Mike Potenza sits down with former investment banker and Division I golfer Rachel Harrison as she recounts her 30-year rise from Accenture coder and Deutsche Bank analyst to Chief Financial Officer of The Meliore Foundation, a 400-person global nonprofit that uses strategic communications to fight climate change. Harrison discusses swapping profit for purpose, how she steers finance, IT and risk across 40 countries, and her advice for accountants who want to turn spreadsheets into social impact. Join us for this fascinating conversation with a true mission-driven finance leader.

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Cool Careers in Accounting Ep. 22 - From Wall Street to World Impact with Rachel Harrison

Shakor J. Jukes, honored as an “Outstanding 40 Under 40” CPA, joins host Chris Mitchell to demonstrate how accounting goes far beyond spreadsheets. He recounts growing up in Newark’s inner-city, discovering accounting in high school, and pushing through repeated CPA-exam setbacks. Now a champion of financial literacy, Jukes details the essentials that turn paychecks into generational wealth. Join us for his important message of how mastering the language of money and giving it back to your community can make the CPA designation a tool for lasting social change.

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Balancing the Future Ep. 27 - Empowering Communities Through Accounting and Leadership with Shakor J. Jukes

Mark Gallegos, Tax Partner at Porte Brown, and his guest, Melissa Wiley, delve into the leading tax topics. Gain insights from their expertise on the current tax landscape. Recognizing the many uncertainties tax professionals face this year, Mark and his guest each month emphasize the opportunities to strengthen client relationships and drive future revenue for tax practitioners.

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Tax News Now Ep. 10 - Mastering IRS Challenges: Strategies for Advocacy, Tools, and Communication with Melissa Wiley

Mike Maksymiw takes us through his inspiring career journey, blending his passion for accounting, mentorship, and innovation. From his days as a college baseball pitcher to his leadership role at Aprio, Mike shares insights on work-life harmony, the evolving role of technology in accounting, and the value of questioning norms and building meaningful professional relationships. Packed with practical advice and personal anecdotes, this interview is a must-listen for anyone looking to make a lasting impact in the accounting profession.

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Cool Careers in Accounting Ep. 21 - Beyond Billable Hours: A Formula for Success in Accounting with Mike Maksymiw

In this inspiring interview, Jesse Rhodes Jr., an executive, author, and advocate for personal growth, shares his journey of resilience, leadership, and purpose. From overcoming challenges to writing his transformative book, Jesse emphasizes the power of self-love and vulnerability. He discusses financial literacy, navigating corporate shifts, and empowering the next generation to take action. This conversation is a powerful reminder to embrace your unique potential and create possibilities.

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Balancing the Future Ep. 26 - Unlocking Leadership and Purpose with Jesse Rhodes Jr.

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Ruth Berry

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