The CPA MOMS Podcast

Productivity doesn't mean working more hours or grinding yourself into exhaustion. In this week's episode, Nicole Kehl, CPA, challenges the deeply ingrained hustle culture of the accounting industry and offers a fresh framework for what productivity can actually look like. She shares a personal story from the early days of building her firm as a stay-at-home mom, when staying up late to work left her nodding off at her desk and missing precious mornings with her kids. That wake-up call led her to discover a better way. This episode kicks off a multi-part productivity series built around three key components: rhythm, planning systems (what Nicole calls "existence systems"), and integrity. If you're tired of the to-do list that never gets shorter, this series was made for you. Enjoyed this episode? Join a network of like-minded women at http://cpamoms.com/start and get the support you need to build the practice you want.

This week, we're bringing back a powerful conversation with Nikki Bushaw, a CPA, entrepreneur, and mom who built her firm on her own terms. In this episode, she shares the real, unfiltered lessons she's learned about confidence, navigating entrepreneurship, and redefining success beyond just numbers. From overcoming imposter syndrome to managing people and prioritizing relationships, Nikki's journey is both relatable and inspiring. If you've ever questioned whether you can build a business that truly fits your life, this conversation is for you. Enjoyed this episode? Join a network of like-minded women at http://cpamoms.com/start and get the support you need to build the practice you want.

Employee onboarding can make or break your firm, and many firm owners learn that lesson the hard way. In this episode, Nicole shares what she has learned through trial and error about building an onboarding process that actually works. She explains how clear workflows, training videos, and a structured 30-60-90 day plan can transform a new hire's experience, increase productivity faster, and strengthen your firm's culture. If you want employees who feel confident, supported, and ready to contribute, this episode walks through the practical steps to make that happen. Enjoyed this episode? Join a network of like-minded women at http://cpamoms.com/start and get the support you need to build the practice you want.

This week, we're revisiting one of our most powerful and thought-provoking conversations: a deep dive into what leadership really means for women in accounting and how to build a firm that truly works for you. We're bringing this episode back because its message is just as relevant today. If you've ever struggled with people-pleasing, guilt, fear of making the wrong decision, or wondering whether you are "too emotional" to lead, this conversation will completely reframe what strong leadership looks like. You'll hear why leadership is not the same as management, how balancing empathy and decisiveness changes everything, and how to retrain your brain so you can lead with clarity and confidence. Enjoyed this episode? Join a network of like-minded women at http://cpamoms.com/start and get the support you need to build the practice you want.

In this episode, Nicole sits down with Rachel Martin from Finding Joy to talk about what it really means to cultivate joy in the middle of real life. Rachel shares how Finding Joy began, why joy is not something we earn once everything is done, and how happiness and joy can actually work together. You will hear practical ways to find joy in ordinary, repetitive days, plus simple tools to give yourself grace when you are in a hard season. This conversation is a reminder that one small choice a day can shift your heart and your life over time. To learn more about Rachel and her work, visit https://findingjoy.net or follow her on Facebook at https://www.facebook.com/findingjoyblog. Enjoyed this episode? Join a network of like-minded women at http://cpamoms.com/start and get the support you need to build the practice you want.

*]:pointer-events-auto scroll-mt-[calc(var(--header-height)+min(200px,max(70px,20svh)))]" dir="auto" tabindex="-1" data-turn-id= "request-WEB:896785a7-0cf2-46fe-aa3a-2723cbf124fd-8" data-testid= "conversation-turn-8" data-scroll-anchor="true" data-turn= "assistant"> This week, we're revisiting one of our most resonant and requested episodes: a powerful conversation between CPA MOMS founder Mayumi Young and Brand Ambassador Nicole Kale about what work-life harmony really looks like and why the old idea of "balance" just doesn't work. We're bringing this episode back because its message is more relevant than ever. If you've been feeling stretched thin, overwhelmed, or like you're falling short in every area, this is the reframe you didn't know you needed. You'll hear how harmony can replace guilt, how to ride life's waves instead of fighting them, and how to redefine success on your own terms. Enjoyed this episode? Join a network of like-minded women at http://cpamoms.com/start and get the support you need to build the practice you want.

Burnout isn't just about being tired. It's about a slow erosion of energy, clarity, and joy. In this eye-opening episode, Lauren Baptiste, a burnout coach for professional women, breaks down what burnout really looks like and why it hits high-achieving moms so hard. We explore how mental load, poor boundaries, and perfectionism contribute to burnout and what small shifts can make a big difference. Burnout Prevention Toolkit: https://www.aicpa-cima.com/resources/download/pcps-burnout-prevention-toolkit Enjoyed this episode? Join a network of like-minded women at http://cpamoms.com/start and get the support you need to build the practice you want. About Lauren Baptiste Lauren Baptiste is reshaping the future of work with a simple strategy: prioritize yourself to effectively meet your professional KPIs. With over 13 years of corporate experience, she founded Acheloa Wellness, a coaching and consulting firm helping professionals in accounting, bookkeeping, consulting, and finance overcome burnout and advance their careers without compromise. Lauren's methodology supports clients in reducing burnout in six months or less while gaining more fulfillment at work and more time at home. As a sought-after speaker and consultant on burnout, mindfulness, and women in leadership, Lauren has worked with global organizations like IBM, EY, the NFL, Estee Lauder, and the United Nations. Her insights have been featured in Forbes, CNBC, Thrive Global, and more. Website: https://www.acheloawellness.com

This week, we're revisiting one of our most impactful and requested episodes: a heartfelt conversation between CPA MOMS founder Mayumi Young and Brand Ambassador Nicole Kale about designing a career that truly supports your life. If you've ever felt like your job is running your life, this episode is your reminder that it doesn't have to be that way. We're bringing this episode back because its message is timeless — and especially needed right now. You'll learn why knowing your values is essential, how to pause when you're overwhelmed, and how to reclaim the driver's seat in your life and career. Enjoyed this episode? Join a network of like-minded women at http://cpamoms.com/start and get the support you need to build the practice you want.

This week, Nicole Kehl welcomes Amy Horner, CPA and academic director, for a powerful discussion on the future of accounting. Together, they unpack the profession's outdated perceptions, the impact of AI, and the cultural shifts reshaping what it means to be a CPA today. From alternate licensure pathways to rethinking work hours and attracting new talent, this is a must-listen conversation for firm owners and accounting leaders. Enjoyed this episode? Join a network of like-minded women at http://cpamoms.com/start and get the support you need to build the practice you want.

You're listening to a re-release of a past CPA MOMS podcast episode. We're resharing this conversation because the topic of confidence continues to come up for women in accounting, especially when stepping into leadership, growth, or ownership. If you missed this episode the first time, or if you need the reminder right now, it's worth another listen. Confidence might not be the first skill that comes to mind in accounting, but it could be the most powerful one. In this episode, Nicole Kehl sits down with CPA MOMS founder Mayumi Young to explore the quiet epidemic of self-doubt among women in the profession. They unpack how imposter syndrome, lack of representation, and perfectionism often hold women back—and what to do about it. If you've ever felt like you're not "ready enough" to step up, this episode is for you. Enjoyed this episode? Join a network of like-minded women at http://cpamoms.com/start and get the support you need to build the practice you want.

In this episode, Nicole Kehl sits down with speaker Clinton Young to explore what it really means to reignite your human spirit. Clinton opens up about his personal rock bottom after the 2008 recession and the transformational journey that followed. He shares his "Magical Success Formula" and the seven life-changing "Black Sheep Habits" that can help anyone step into a more vibrant, fulfilled life. ree gift mentioned in the episode: www.blacksheephabits.com Enjoyed this episode? Join a network of like-minded women at http://cpamoms.com/start and get the support you need to build the practice you want.

As women, moms, and business owners, taking care of ourselves is often the first thing to fall off the list. In this episode, Nicole sits down with entrepreneur and investor Del Lewis for an honest conversation about self-care, hustle culture, and why your health is not optional if you want long-term success. Del shares powerful insights on listening to your body, redefining productivity, and treating your energy as part of your job as a business owner. If you have ever felt exhausted, stuck, or guilty for slowing down, this episode will give you a new perspective. You can also find more of Del's work and insights on building a business that fits your ideal lifestyle on his YouTube channel at https://www.youtube.com/@4DelLewis Enjoyed this episode? Join a network of like-minded women at http://cpamoms.com/start and get the support you need to build the practice you want.

Relationships are at the heart of everything — our families, our careers, and our own sense of fulfillment. In this episode, Nicole sits down with Dave and Yvette Ulloa, founders of Warriors and Queens, to explore what truly makes relationships thrive. From nearly divorcing to now guiding others toward lasting love and partnership, their story is packed with raw honesty, wisdom, and practical tools. They share how understanding our differences, communicating with intention, and reclaiming your self-worth can completely transform how you show up in all areas of life. Gifts from Warriors and Queens Free Warriors and Queens Relationship Master Course Access the free course here: https://cpamoms.com/queens-course 2 Day Warriors and Queens Virtual Immersion Learn more and register here: https://cpamoms.com/queens-2day Enjoyed this episode? Join a network of like-minded women at http://cpamoms.com/start and get the support you need to build the practice you want.

This week, we're bringing you a heartwarming and hilarious holiday episode! Host Nicole is joined by some very special guests, her sons and their friends, or a candid conversation about all things Christmas. From decorating traditions and favorite foods to funny gift mix-ups and sweet moments of gratitude, this episode is filled with laughter, love and a big dose of holiday cheer. Enjoyed this episode? Join a network of like-minded women at http://cpamoms.com/start and get the support you need to build the practice you want.

In this episode of The CPA MOMS Podcast, Nicole sits down with Alicia Katz Pollock, founder of Royal Wise Solutions, to unpack how technology is transforming the accounting profession. From overcoming resistance to change, to building smarter tech stacks, Alicia shares powerful insights and real-world advice to help firm owners navigate AI, automation, and innovation with confidence. Whether you're tech-curious or feeling tech-frazzled, this episode offers clarity and motivation to evolve your practice without losing your human touch. Enjoyed this episode? Join a network of like-minded women at http://cpamoms.com/start and get the support you need to build the practice you want.

In this episode of The CPA MOMS Podcast, Nicole chats with Hannah Mobley, a children's minister and social‑work background parent, about the power of meaningful conversations with our kids. They explore how working moms can balance a busy career and motherhood by focusing on quality connection over quantity time. You'll hear their honest take on teaching children about boundaries, body autonomy, safety, and faith in a way that feels natural, age‑appropriate, and rooted in love. If you've ever wondered when and how to start "the hard talks," this episode gives you grace, hope, and practical ideas. Enjoyed this episode? Join a network of like‑minded women at http://cpamoms.com/start and get the support you need to build the practice you want.

In this episode, Amie Clark opens up about her journey from a family business to becoming a corporate controller, while raising a family along the way. She shares how real-world experiences shaped her accounting career, why flexibility has been essential and what she's learned about leading both teams and kids with patience and purpose. From launching payroll weeks after giving birth to redefining boundaries at home, Amie's story is a refreshing reminder that you can build a career and a family without losing yourself in the process. Enjoyed this episode? Join a network of like-minded women at http://cpamoms.com/start and get the support you need to build the practice you want.

In this episode, Nicole Kehl sits down with her two sons and their friends for a candid conversation about what it's really like having a working mom. From funny Zoom call interruptions to honest reflections about missing time together, these kids share their unfiltered thoughts on work-life balance, presence, and what makes their moms so special. Enjoyed this episode? Join a network of like-minded women at http://cpamoms.com/start and get the support you need to build the practice you want.