Accounting Apps Podcast

This episode was recorded on the way to the Sydney Accounting & Business Expo, offering a candid and practical conversation about AI in practice, peer communities, vendor relationships and the evolving accounting profession in Australia. Chris Wheatley shares insights into running a 10 FTE suburban accounting practice with 1,900 clients Discussion on AI in accounting tools and how most firms are already using it The growth and impact of the Small Business Accountants & Advisors Brain Trust Facebook group Peer-to-peer recommendations versus traditional vendor marketing The rise of alternative and non-bank lending in the SME space This conversation highlights the importance of community, practical tech adoption and staying grounded while navigating change in the accounting profession. Episode resources and links: Chris Wheatley, Director, Scope Accounting : https://www.linkedin.com/in/chris-wheatley-fca-29398533/ Scope Accounting : https://www.scopeaccounting.com.au/ Small Business Accountants & Advisers Brain Trust, Australia FaceBook Group https://www.facebook.com/groups/977122739056681 Accounting & Business Expo : https://www.terrapinn.com/exhibition/accounting-business-expo/index.stm If this episode helped you, the best way to support the show is to leave a review somewhere as it helps more people find us. And if you want to continue the conversation, come find me Heather Smith | Accountant and Storyteller on: LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/HeatherSmithAU/ Accounting Apps newsletter: http://accountingapps.io/ Accounting Apps Mastermind: https://www.facebook.com/groups/XeroMasterMind YouTube Channel: https://www.youtube.com/ANISEConsulting X: https://twitter.com/HeatherSmithAU

A practical conversation, with Tyler Caskey, Dan Osborne and Heather Smith, hosted by John Munden, on how accounting firms can grow through better systems, small efficiency improvements and intentional technology adoption including AI, automation and advisory insights. Presented by Cloudoffis. Cloud Office is an Australian cloud-based platform that helps accountants and auditors streamline SMSF audits, tax workpapers and compliance workflows. Summary Accounting firms are entering a new phase of growth where success is no longer measured only by revenue. In this discussion, we explore how modern practices are improving profitability, efficiency and lifestyle outcomes through smarter systems and technology adoption. The panel shares practical advice on reviewing your tech stack, identifying pain points and adopting automation that removes administrative tasks rather than replacing professional judgement. AI is already transforming workflows through data analysis, receipt capture, executive summaries and financial insights. Importantly, the conversation also highlights the need for clear AI policies, strong client data protection and thoughtful implementation. As accounting technology continues to evolve, firms that focus on small improvements, better systems and intentional growth will be well positioned for the future. Apps & Tools Mentioned: Cloudoffis, Excel, Google Meet, Zoom, Xero, Hubdoc, Dext, Wheel, JAX, ChatGPT, Microsoft Copilot, Power BI, Intuit Contact details: Cloudoffis : https://cloudoffis.com.au/ Dan Osborne : https://www.linkedin.com/in/dan-osborne-985129121/ CATS : https://catax.com.au/ Two Drunk Accountants : https://twodrunkaccountants.com.au/ Tyler Caskey : https://www.linkedin.com/in/tylercaskey/ Bean Counters : https://www.thebeancounters.com.au/ John Munden : https://www.linkedin.com/in/jmunden/ Accounting Apps newsletter: http://accountingapps.io/ Accounting Apps Mastermind: https://www.facebook.com/groups/XeroMasterMind LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/HeatherSmithAU/ YouTube Channel: https://www.youtube.com/ANISEConsulting X: https://twitter.com/HeatherSmithAU

Fast-growing businesses eventually reach a point where their finance systems struggle to keep up. In this episode, CFO Anita Chow shares how Acusensus moved from a Xero and spreadsheet-based environment to a full ERP Oracle Netsuite platform to support rapid growth and international expansion. The discussion explores what triggers the shift to ERP, the challenges of managing multiple entities and growing transaction volumes, and the benefits of having a scalable financial infrastructure. The move dramatically improved automation across key areas such as reporting, lease accounting, and financial consolidation while enabling the finance team to spend more time partnering with the business. The conversation also highlights important lessons for finance professionals and advisors supporting scaling companies. Clean data, thoughtful change management, and clear success metrics are critical. Ultimately, technology is only the enabler. The real value comes from how finance teams use better systems to deliver insights, manage risk, and support strategic decisions. Apps & Tools Mentioned: NetSuite, Xero, Excel, ProSpend, Zone & Co, Netgain, Employment Hero, Airwallex, NetSuite Planning and Budgeting Contact details: Oracle Netsuite : https://www.netsuite.com/portal/home.shtml Acusensus : https://www.acusensus.com/ Anita Chow: https://www.linkedin.com/in/anita-chow-b77a0016/ Accounting Apps newsletter: http://accountingapps.io/ Accounting Apps Mastermind: https://www.facebook.com/groups/XeroMasterMind LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/HeatherSmithAU/ YouTube Channel: https://www.youtube.com/ANISEConsulting X: https://twitter.com/HeatherSmithAU

How do you modernise a family business when the older generation resists change? This episode explores emotional barriers, trust, and a practical tiny pilot approach to digital adoption. Summary In this episode, I explore the challenge of introducing new technology into long established family businesses. Inspired by a LinkedIn post from Tony Harcourt, we unpack why tech resistance is often emotional, not practical. Key discussion points: The generational technology gap in family businesses Emotional drivers behind software resistance: identity, control, pride, risk Insights from Xero’s behavioural research on tech adoption Why trust and communication shape innovation success The “Tiny Pilot” method for low risk digital change Practical scripts to reduce defensiveness and build collaboration Handling common objections like “It’s too expensive” or “We’ve always done it this way” The role of external advisors in supporting family dynamics Key Takeaway: Successful technology adoption in family businesses is about protecting legacy while reducing friction. Start small, make it reversible, and focus on outcomes, not features. Contact details: Tony Harcourt: https://www.linkedin.com/in/tony-harcourt/ LinkedIn Post: https://www.linkedin.com/feed/update/urn:li:activity:7432901025231159296/ WorkGuru https://workguru.io/ Behavioural Research by Xero https://www.xero.com/au/media-releases/behavioural-research-by-xero-uncovers-barriers-for-au-small-businesses/ Accounting Apps newsletter: http://accountingapps.io/ Accounting Apps Mastermind: https://www.facebook.com/groups/XeroMasterMind LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/HeatherSmithAU/ YouTube Channel: https://www.youtube.com/ANISEConsulting X: https://twitter.com/HeatherSmithAU

Cameron Anderson General Manager XBert What does AI fluency really mean for accountants and bookkeepers? This episode explores governance, prompting frameworks, and practical AI use cases you can apply immediately. Summary In this episode, we explore AI fluency for accountants and bookkeepers and what it really means in practice. From governance to prompting frameworks, we unpack practical steps firms can take today. Key Discussion Points What AI fluency means for modern bookkeeping firms Traditional AI vs Generative AI explained simply The AI and human partnership model Governance, ethics, and client disclosure considerations The RTRI prompting framework: Role, Task, Requirements, Instructions AI use cases across client communication, reporting, and operations Using AI for financial analysis and contextual insights Capacity planning and workflow intelligence Starting small and building sustainable capability Why data quality underpins every AI initiative Key Takeaways AI should augment human judgement, not replace it Start with low risk, easy to validate use cases Build AI capability alongside human skills Transparency and governance matter Small, consistent learning builds long term fluency Apps & Tools Mentioned XBert, Xero, ChatGPT, Gamma, Otter.ai, Fireflies.ai, Gmail, Microsoft Outlook Contact details: Cameron Anderson : https://www.linkedin.com/in/cameronanderson2/ XBert : https://www.xbert.io/ Accounting Apps newsletter: http://accountingapps.io/ Accounting Apps Mastermind: https://www.facebook.com/groups/XeroMasterMind LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/HeatherSmithAU/ YouTube Channel: https://www.youtube.com/ANISEConsulting X: https://twitter.com/HeatherSmithAU

AI is reshaping accounting roles, not replacing them. Explore what’s changing, emerging governance roles, and why strategic thinking and AI fluency matter more than ever. Summary As AI reshapes our profession, we're essentially seeing less demand for those routine tasks, a boom in strategic roles and new opportunities for those who understand the cross section between accounting and technology, so less routine, more strategy, more cross disciplinary. And today, I'd like to talk about what's changing in the roles, what's not changing in the roles, what new roles are emerging, and what accountants and bookkeepers should focus on now. Key discussion points: Why AI will replace tasks, not accountants The decline of routine compliance work The rise of advisory, virtual CFO and fractional CFO roles Emerging positions: AI governance, risk reviewers, AI audit trail designers The concept of AI “agent managers” AI fluency as a critical professional skill The growing importance of critical thinking and communication Ethical obligations in an AI-embedded profession Practical steps: auditing your task list and shifting time to interpretation Why governance frameworks and AI policies are now essential Key takeaways: AI augments judgement, it does not replace it Advisory creates value, productivity alone does not Ethics and professional standards become even more important Accountants are uniquely positioned to manage AI governance This is a leadership moment for the profession Contact details: Accounting Apps newsletter: http://accountingapps.io/ Accounting Apps Mastermind: https://www.facebook.com/groups/XeroMasterMind LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/HeatherSmithAU/ YouTube Channel: https://www.youtube.com/ANISEConsulting X: https://twitter.com/HeatherSmithAU

Kyelie Baxter shares how AI is changing accounting firm workflows, boosting outputs, and freeing up capacity, while still needing strong guardrails and human judgment. Summary In this episode, Kylie Baxter discusses how artificial intelligence is transforming accounting firms, client expectations, and internal workflows, without replacing the human element. Key discussion points include: Kylie’s journey from accountant to firm owner and governance leader Volunteering, advisory skills, and building confidence outside the firm How AI is being used safely inside an accounting practice Setting guardrails and values around AI adoption Digitising client admin and finance workflows Why accounts payable will become highly automated Why payroll still needs strong human involvement Paying staff based on outputs, not tools used Using AI to reduce mental load and prioritise tasks How AI is reshaping the competitive landscape for firms Key takeaway: AI is a powerful tool for efficiency and capacity, but accountants who apply judgment, governance, and strategy will remain irreplaceable. Kylie and I were guests of the LYD Unstoppable Growth Conference held at the JW Marriott Gold Coast Resort & Spa in one of the most amazing places in the world, Surfers Paradise! LYD stands for Light Year Docs, and it is a platform for creating verified legal documents including companies, trusts and commercial agreements. If that’s of interest to you, I’m sure the team would be happy to speak with you. Contact details: Kyelie Baxter : https://www.linkedin.com/in/kyelie-baxter-fcpa-43224334/ IQ Accountants : https://iqaccountants.com.au Accounting Apps newsletter: http://accountingapps.io/ Accounting Apps Mastermind: https://www.facebook.com/groups/XeroMasterMind LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/HeatherSmithAU/ YouTube Channel: https://www.youtube.com/ANISEConsulting X: https://twitter.com/HeatherSmithAU

Heather shares insights from MYOB’s Australian Open event, exploring AI integration, Google Gemini tools, new MYOB Solo app for micro businesses, and the power of keyboard aesthetics. Summary In this episode, Heather Smith shares insights from her time at the Australian Open with MYOB, exploring how technology, AI, and workplace tools are reshaping the accounting world: MYOB discussed their internal program "AI Every Day," which focuses on mindset, skillset, and toolset Overview of MYOB’s mobile-first solution, Solo, designed for freelancers and gig workers. It offers an alternative to spreadsheets for micro business clients Discussion on multi-entity support and MYOB's ERP solution, Acumatica It's worth remembering that MYOB still stores customer data within Australia across two local data centres MYOB's product spectrum includes solutions for micro businesses through to larger companies using Acumatica Heather shared her experience looking for a pink keyboard and how ergonomic design impacted her typing and comfort She also outlined how using Google Workspace's Gemini AI features has supported her productivity Contact details: MYOB https://www.myob.com/au Solo https://www.myob.com/au/products/solo Accounting Apps newsletter: http://accountingapps.io/ Accounting Apps Mastermind: https://www.facebook.com/groups/XeroMasterMind LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/HeatherSmithAU/ YouTube Channel: https://www.youtube.com/ANISEConsulting X: https://twitter.com/HeatherSmithAU LinkedIn https://www.linkedin.com/posts/heathersmithau_accountingandaccountants-activity-7423640248129298432-g81K https://www.linkedin.com/posts/heathersmithau_accountingandaccountants-myob-activity-7422403938831720448-E5Sw

In the third of three instalments Heather Smith shares insights from TOACon 2025. She chats with industry leaders about business advisory, AI agents in accounting, community building, and embracing the future with purpose and relationships. Summary In this third instalment from TOACon 2025, Heather Smith explores the evolution of business advisory services and the powerful tech shaping the accounting profession. Interviews recorded live at the Shangri-La in Boracay during TOA Global’s TOACon 2025. Featured guests: Dale Pearson (Intuit QuickBooks): Discusses new AI agents, the power of relationships, and integrating QuickBooks with MailChimp. Mark Jenkins (The Gap): Talks about proactive advisory, community, and lifting average client value. Lynda Steffens (The Small Business Project): Shares a practical roadmap for implementing advisory services. Emphasis on strategic relationships and practical AI applications. Advisory isn’t just about knowledge—it’s about how and why you deliver it. Encouragement for accountants and bookkeepers to carve out time for growth and purposeful client impact. Reflections on the Boracay experience and the importance of personal development, community, and consistency. Heather Smith attended the TOACon 2025 conference as hosted media. If you want to find out more about TOAGlobal please visit their website :toaglobal.com If you want further information about anything covered in this podcast, please refer to the show notes: https://www.heathersmithsmallbusiness.com/blog/ Contact details: Accounting Apps newsletter: http://accountingapps.io/ Accounting Apps Mastermind: https://www.facebook.com/groups/XeroMasterMind LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/HeatherSmithAU/ YouTube Channel: https://www.youtube.com/ANISEConsulting X: https://twitter.com/HeatherSmithAU

Insights from TOACon 2025’s tech stream: AI, cybersecurity, client experience, and building resilient firms with smarter systems, featuring Practice Protect, AccountKit, and more. Summary In the second of three instalments Heather Smith explores highlights from TOACon 2025. Recorded at the luxurious Shangri-La Boracay, this episode dives into practical tools and strategies reshaping the accounting landscape. Main Topics: 🌟 Customer Experience Strategy: Jason S Bradshaw on reducing client friction and defining your service promise. 🔐 Cybersecurity Deep Dive: Jenny Caune of Practice Protect on multi-layered security and sleep-at-night tech. 📊 Cloud App Report: Real usage data across 13 categories: what apps firms are actually using in 2025. 🔄 AccountKit Expansion: Matt Taylor from AccountKit on new features including reconciliations, integrations, and centralized workflows. 📈 Building a Business That Runs Without You: TOA Global founder Nick Sinclair on separating identity from business. 🧭 Truth in Leadership: Dom Thurbon on the fine line between experience and baggage, staying curious is key. 🏝️ Conference Culture & Community: Live insights from attendees on the power of connections, resilience, and hospitality. Key Takeaways: Tech doesn’t build trust, clear communication does. Cybersecurity isn’t optional; it's foundational. Real-time app data beats outdated reviews: use the Cloud App Report. Centralised platforms like AccountKit are simplifying workflows. Leadership breakthroughs come from clarity, not complexity. Heather Smith attended the TOACon 2025 conference as hosted media. If you want to find out more about TOAGlobal please visit their website :toaglobal.com If you want further information about anything covered in this podcast, please refer to the show notes: https://www.heathersmithsmallbusiness.com/blog/ Contact details: Accounting Apps newsletter: http://accountingapps.io/ Accounting Apps Mastermind: https://www.facebook.com/groups/XeroMasterMind LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/HeatherSmithAU/ YouTube Channel: https://www.youtube.com/ANISEConsulting X: https://twitter.com/HeatherSmithAU

Join Heather Smith as she explores highlights from TOACon 2025: building resilient teams, leadership mindset shifts, and inspiring stories from accountants shaping the future through global connections. Summary In the first of three instalments Heather Smith shares highlights from TOACon2025: focusing on mindset, culture, offshoring, innovation, and resilience in the accounting profession. Through interviews and speaker takeaways, you'll hear how accounting leaders are embracing small actions for big impact. Insights from Dr. Shadé Zahrai on mindset, adversity, and recognising your own value. Interview with Mariel (Accounting for Jewellers): from jeweller to niche accountant, offshoring success story. Innovation tips from James O’Loghlin: tackle friction, protect thinking time, challenge assumptions. Interview with Alan Lonie (AO Accounting): navigating complex Thai regulations, digital adoption challenges. Human performance advice from Olly Bridge: fight burnout, habit stack, and walk through problems. Interview with Mark Said (MKS Group): expanding through offshoring, shifting to CFO coaching, talent shortages. Interview with Mareta Akari (TOA Global): TOA’s cultural values, post-conference celebrations, and resilience during natural disasters. Heather Smith attended the TOACon 2025 conference as hosted media. If you want to find out more about TOAGlobal please visit their website :toaglobal.com If you want further information about anything covered in this podcast, please refer to the show notes: https://www.heathersmithsmallbusiness.com/blog/ Contact details: Accounting Apps newsletter: http://accountingapps.io/ Accounting Apps Mastermind: https://www.facebook.com/groups/XeroMasterMind LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/HeatherSmithAU/ YouTube Channel: https://www.youtube.com/ANISEConsulting X: https://twitter.com/HeatherSmithAU

In this special year-end wrap-up, we explore the major accounting tech releases of 2025. From new AI capabilities to feature-rich workpapers and smarter reporting tools, discover the updates that could transform your current stack. The accompanying article to this podcast can be found on Accountants Daily. Contact details: Accounting Apps newsletter: http://accountingapps.io/ Accounting Apps Mastermind: https://www.facebook.com/groups/XeroMasterMind LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/HeatherSmithAU/ YouTube Channel: https://www.youtube.com/ANISEConsulting X: https://twitter.com/HeatherSmithAU

Heather shares why real-world networking still matters for accountants & bookkeepers, offering practical tips to build genuine, long-term professional relationships without feeling salesy or awkward. In this episode, Heather Smith explores the timeless power of in-person networking for accounting & bookkeeping professionals. Based on her article for Acuity Magazine, she shares stories, strategies, and tech tips for nurturing relationships authentically. Article : https://www.acuitymag.com/business/how-to-make-the-most-of-in-person-networking/ Why networking isn't about selling, it's about trust and relationships. Tips for event preparation, including reviewing attendees and sending pre-event LinkedIn messages. Digital vs paper business cards: the role of QR codes, NFC cards, and LinkedIn connections. Best conversation starters (including complimenting shoes). The importance of post-event follow-up, such as voice memos and task lists. Why introverts might actually be excellent networkers. How to stay top of mind with minimal LinkedIn activity (just 12 posts a year!). Real examples of relationships built over 15+ years that still add value today. Encouragement for all generations—young professionals and seasoned leaders alike—to show up and contribute. Contact details: Accounting Apps newsletter: http://accountingapps.io/ Accounting Apps Mastermind: https://www.facebook.com/groups/XeroMasterMind LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/HeatherSmithAU/ YouTube Channel: https://www.youtube.com/ANISEConsulting X: https://twitter.com/HeatherSmithAU

A lively panel reflects on 2025's tech-driven accounting trends, AI, automation, clean data, and what’s next for 2026. Ethics, awards, remote work, and receipts that must die! Summary In this panel discussion recorded at the Cloudoffis end-of-year event in Sydney, Heather Smith is joined by John Munden (Cloudoffis), Tyler Caskey (The Bean Counters), and Natalia Clark (Easy Super) to reflect on 2025 and forecast on the future in 2026 and beyond in the accounting and auditing industry. In this episode, we talk about . . . Key 2025 trends: AI integration, automation pain points, rapid tech change. The obsession with building AI agents into workflows. Insights on award-winning success and staying unique. The shift to remote-first work and global team building. Strategic investments in talent vs. tech at Cloudoffis. The call to kill receipts, wet signatures, and corporate cheques. Bold forecasts for AI replacing admin roles and fast decision-making gaps. Final takeaway: ethics, professionalism, and agility are your superpowers. Contact details: Sponsor Offers: Here Cloudoffis : https://cloudoffis.com.au/ Natalia Clark : https://www.linkedin.com/in/nataliaclack-easysuper/ Tyler Caskey : https://www.linkedin.com/in/tylercaskey/ John Munden : https://www.linkedin.com/in/jmunden/ Accounting Apps newsletter: http://accountingapps.io/ Accounting Apps Mastermind: https://www.facebook.com/groups/XeroMasterMind LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/HeatherSmithAU/ YouTube Channel: https://www.youtube.com/ANISEConsulting X: https://twitter.com/HeatherSmithAU