Why would a thriving CPA firm take outside investment? In this episode of Everything CPA and Private Equity, hosts Phil Whitman and David Wolfskehl sit down with Joe Damiano of Sax to unpack why even a highly profitable, fast-growing firm chose a minority private equity partner.   In this episode, you will be able to: • Learn why deal flow—not just capital—was the catalyst for Sax’s decision • See how a minority investment can help level the playing field in M&A • Understand how Sax balanced culture, partner engagement, and economics • Discover how a strong capital stack opens doors for future growth • Hear why PE can be about strategic alignment—not losing independence   Listen now to uncover why even the strongest firms explore PE—and what lessons your firm can take away!   #PrivateEquity #CPAFirmGrowth #AccountingDeals #MergersAndAcquisitions #FirmStrategy

Are CPA firms clinging too tightly to being “fiercely independent”? In this episode of Everything CPA and Private Equity, hosts Phil Whitman and David Wolfskehl sit down with former Baker Tilly CEO Alan Whitman to unpack what it really takes to scale in today’s profession.   In this episode, you will be able to: • Understand why “good enough” thinking holds firms back from real growth • Learn how strategy and discipline transform lifestyle firms into true businesses • Explore the tension between independence and alignment in firm governance • Hear how culture and collaboration drive sustainable scale • See why breaking old habits is key to staying relevant   Listen now to uncover why independence isn’t always strength—and how strategic alignment positions CPA firms to thrive in a changing marketplace.   #CPA #AccountingFirms #FirmStrategy #Leadership #PrivateEquity

Is your firm’s outdated tech holding back growth—and lowering valuation?   Tech isn’t just a back-office tool anymore—it’s a growth driver in private equity deals. In this episode of Everything CPA & Private Equity, hosts Phil Whitman and David Wolfskehl sit down with Joe Carufe of Karbon to explore how the right tech stack transforms firms before and after a PE transaction.   In this episode, you will be able to:   Understand why PE firms see tech infrastructure as critical to scaling CPA practices Learn how standardized workflows and training boost profitability and efficiency Discover how smaller firms gain a “rocket booster” of innovation when joining PE platforms Explore why tech prep matters even if you’re not planning to sell soon See how improved efficiency translates directly into higher valuations   Listen now to hear how PE-backed firms are modernizing through tech—and why preparing your stack today sets you up for success tomorrow.   #PrivateEquity #CPAFirmGrowth #AccountingTechnology #WorkflowAutomation #FirmValuation

Are smaller CPA firms being overlooked in the private equity wave?   In this episode of Everything CPA and Private Equity, hosts Phil Whitman and David Wolfskehl break down why firms under $3M are finding new opportunities in today’s market—and why it’s not just the large firms that PE is after.   In this episode, you will be able to: • Understand why over 200+ PE groups are looking at CPA firms—and what that means for smaller practices • Discover why “cash at closing” changes the traditional succession playbook • Learn how niche services and profitability drive firm value in PE deals • Explore why culture and chemistry matter just as much as multiples • Hear why now is the best time ever to be a CPA firm owner   Listen now to uncover what’s really happening in the CPA and PE marketplace—and how your firm can be part of it!   #CPAIndustry #PrivateEquity #AccountingFirms #FirmGrowth #SuccessionPlanning

Think private equity is only chasing the biggest players in the industry? Think again. In this episode of Everything CPA and Private Equity, Phil Whitman and David Wolfskehl break down how firms under $3M in revenue are closing PE-backed deals — and why the opportunities have never been better for smaller practices.   In this episode, you will be able to: Understand why PE firms and family offices are now targeting smaller CPA firms Learn what deal structures can look like beyond the traditional “one-times revenue” model Discover the key qualifiers that make a smaller firm attractive to strategic investors See why culture and chemistry still matter more than the highest multiple Explore how niche expertise can give small firms a big advantage in PE conversations   Listen now and find out how even smaller firms can leverage today’s market to take chips off the table, access growth capital, and secure their future!   #CPADeals #PrivateEquity #AccountingFirms #MergersAndAcquisitions #FirmGrowth

Worried about the impact of private equity in accounting? You’re not alone—but the fear often doesn’t match the facts. In this episode, Phil Whitman and David Wolfskehl are joined by Terry Putney for a no-fluff conversation on what’s really happening in the profession—and what leadership teams need to know.   In this episode, you will be able to: Understand why the “PE = cost-cutting” narrative doesn’t fit accounting Learn how offshoring and tech are improving—not harming—client service Hear why firm quality has increased post-PE investment Discover the difference between a partnership model and a corporate model See how PE-backed firms are attracting and retaining top talent   Listen now to hear how private equity is reshaping the profession—for the better!   #EverythingCPAandPE #AccountingLeadership #PrivateEquityFacts #CPAFirmStrategy #OffshoringInAccounting

What Happens When PE Is Led by Operators—Not Just Investors? In this episode of Everything CPA and Private Equity, Phil and David sit down with Sanjay Agarwal, CEO of Occams Elevate, to explore a new model of growth capital built by CPAs, for CPAs.   In this episode, you’ll be able to: Understand how operator-led PE platforms differ from traditional investor-only models Learn why Occam’s Elevate prioritizes autonomy, equity incentives, and culture preservation See how Sanjay’s team supports firms with built-in HR, finance, marketing, and AI infrastructure Discover why advisory and audit are at the center of their long-term strategy Get insights into flexible exit options—including rollover equity and second-bite planning   Tune in now to hear why this new platform is turning heads—and how it could align with your firm’s next chapter!   #PrivateEquity #CPADeals #OperatorLedGrowth #MergersAndAcquisitions #StrategicPartnerships

Is your firm ready for private equity—or just reacting to a phone call? In this episode of Everything CPA and Private Equity, hosts Phil Whitman and David Wolfskehl are joined by guest David Kells, leader of WTA’s Profit Team, to uncover what really separates high-value deals from short-sighted decisions.   In this episode, you’ll be able to: Understand why meeting 1 or 2 PE firms is never enough to make a smart decision Learn how cultural alignment matters more than a high multiple Discover how WTA helped one firm boost cash upfront from 40% to 60% by knowing buyer patterns Get clarity on deal types: Topco vs. Local equity, short vs. long holders, minority vs. majority stakes See how education and advocacy protect sellers from bad fits and future regret   Listen now to learn how Whitman Transition Advisors guides firms through one of the most important decisions they’ll ever make!   #CPAFirmGrowth #PrivateEquityDeals #StrategicAdvisory #MergersAndAcquisitions #AccountingLeadership

How can minority investments transform CPA firms—and what role does Bitcoin play in the future of finance?   In this episode of Everything CPA and Private Equity, Mike Williams, Managing Partner of Truvestments, shares how his team is helping CPA firms scale, retain control, and lead clients into the next generation of financial strategy.   In this episode, you’ll be able to: Understand how minority investments offer cash infusion without loss of control Learn why EBAC may be more valuable than EBITDA when it comes to firm valuation See how CPAs can integrate wealth management to deepen client relationships Explore the growing relevance of Bitcoin and digital assets in long-term planning Hear how future-focused firms are preparing for the digitization of finance   Listen now and explore how your firm can lead in the next era of opportunity!   #CPALeadership #WealthManagement #PrivateEquity #DigitalAssets #FutureOfFinance

What happens when a CPA sees the gap—and decides to build the solution?   In this episode of Everything CPA and Private Equity, Josh Funk, Chief Development Officer at Crete Professionals Alliance, shares how his journey from firm owner to PE-backed leader is transforming how CPA firms grow, scale, and lead in today’s market.   In this episode, you will be able to: Learn how Josh took Crete PA from zero to 21 firm partnerships and $300M+ in revenue Understand the power of local-level rollover equity—and why it benefits high-performing firms Explore how Crete helps partner firms scale by taking admin, compliance, and tech off their plate Hear how one $20M firm grew to $45M in less than three years through organic and inorganic growth Get insights into how Thrive Capital and Crete are building a tech-enabled, people-first future for the profession   Listen now to hear how Josh Funk and Crete PA are rewriting the CPA-PE playbook!   #FirmGrowth #PrivateEquity #CPALeadership #CretePA #EverythingCPAandPE

Can you grow fast, stay independent, and still put your people first?   In this episode of Everything CPA & Private Equity, Ron Weiner shares how his firm scaled from 20 to 80+ team members while staying true to its values—no shortcuts, no compromises. From turning down private equity to implementing an ESOP, Ron walks through the real-life decisions that shaped one of the most profitable, people-centered firms in the industry.   In this episode, you will be able to: Learn how firm culture drives both retention and profitability Explore why Perelson Weiner LLP chose an ESOP—and how it’s evolving Hear how the wrong growth strategy can damage client trust Get leadership insights from someone who’s scaled multiple firms Understand how to stay independent in a consolidating industry   This one’s for firm leaders who believe strong values lead to strong returns. Listen now.   #EverythingCPAandPE #FirmLeadership #PeopleFirst #GrowthWithoutSellingOut #ESOPStrategy

Still think private equity is a passing trend in accounting? Think again.   In this episode of Everything CPA and Private Equity, Phil Whitman and David Wolfskehl unpack what they’re seeing across the country as they attend top CPA conferences—and how firm leaders can make sense of it all.   In this episode, you will be able to: Understand why PE-backed firms are now dominating the CPA event landscape. Hear real-world stories of firms that doubled in size within months after partnering with PE. Discover the shift from “PE curiosity” to “PE strategy” among firm leaders. Learn why staying independent is still a viable path—but only if you prepare smartly. Get tips on how to educate your team and evaluate your competition in this evolving market.   Whether you’re PE-curious or committed to independence, this episode will help you see what’s coming next—and how to position your firm to thrive.   Listen now!   #PrivateEquity #CPAIndustry #FirmLeadership #MergersAndAcquisitions #EverythingCPAandPE

What happens when a firm chooses legacy, culture, and long-term growth over flashy headlines and fast exits?   In this episode of Everything CPA and Private Equity, David Wolfskehl sits down with Noah Beery, Head of Corporate Development at Platform Accounting, to uncover how a quiet, boutique-focused strategy led to 50+ acquisitions and lasting success.   In this episode, you will be able to: Discover the powerful founding story behind Platform Accounting and its values-driven approach Understand how family office capital supports sustainable, long-term strategy Learn why they don’t operate under one brand—and how this preserves firm culture Explore their personalized, non-cookie-cutter integration model post-acquisition Hear why execution—not more ideas—is the real difference-maker in firm growth   Tune in to the full episode!   #CPAfirmSuccess #PrivateEquity #AccountingMergers #StrategicGrowth #EverythingCPAandPE #Podcast

Is Private Equity the Future of CPA Firm Growth—or Just a Risky Shortcut?   In this episode of Everything CPA and Private Equity, Frazier & Deeter’s Jeremy Jones and Seth McDaniel join Phil Whitman and David Wolfskehl to reveal how their firm went from cautious observers to confident partners with General Atlantic. It’s an honest, behind-the-scenes look at the strategy, process, and real impact of private equity in the accounting world.   In this episode, you will be able to: •Understand why Frazier & Deeter initially said “no” to private equity—and what changed their minds. •Learn how they narrowed down 35 offers to one perfect-fit partner based on values, culture, and vision. •See how they brought all 61 partners into the process with transparency, alignment, and buy-in. •Hear their roadmap for national expansion, people development, and tech investment post-deal. •Get clarity on quality concerns, partner control, and the realities of PE “turns” over time.   If your firm is exploring what’s next—don’t miss this real-world case study in strategic transformation!   #PrivateEquity #CPAIndustry #FirmLeadership #AccountingGrowth #EverythingCPAandPE

Is Private Equity Killing Quality in Accounting? Let’s Set the Record Straight.   In this episode, join David Wolfskehl, Phil Whitman, and special guest Reyes Florez as they address one of the most talked-about concerns in the industry: Does private equity hurt quality? The answers may surprise you.   In this episode, you will be able to: •Understand why fears about post-deal quality drops may be misplaced •Hear firsthand accounts from firms thriving after PE investment •Learn why alignment and leadership matter more than ownership model •Explore the long-term impact of PE from those who’ve seen it evolve •Get clarity on the real risks—and real opportunities   Listen now to get the inside perspective and decide for yourself!   #PrivateEquity #AccountingIndustry #PodcastEpisode #MergersAndAcquisitions #CPAInsights

Is Private Equity Really Putting CPA Firm Quality at Risk? That’s what a recent Wall Street Journal article suggests—but is it the full story?   In this episode of Everything CPA and Private Equity, David Wolfskehl, Phil Whitman, and Dave Kells dig into the growing conversation around quality control in accounting firms backed by private equity or strategic investors. With decades of leadership experience and over 30 deals behind them, they’re not just guessing—they’ve seen the inside.   In this episode, you’ll be able to: •Hear why larger firms—with PE or strategic backing—often strengthen quality control. •Understand the real role of skepticism and audit culture in safeguarding standards. •Explore how regulations (like PCAOB oversight) impact CPA firms today. •Discover how experienced CPAs maintain independence despite outside capital. •Learn why comparing CPAs to healthcare might be misleading—and even dangerous.   Tune in to hear what’s really happening behind the scenes—and why not all criticism holds up!   #CPAandPrivateEquity #AuditStandards #FirmIntegrity #AccountingInsights #RegulatoryReality

Is an ESOP the right next step for your CPA firm? In this episode of Everything CPA and ESOP, David Wolfskehl is joined by Cristine O’Keefe and Tabitha Croscut to unpack what firms need to know about Employee Stock Ownership Plans—from legal structure to strategic fit. Whether you’re actively exploring succession options or just want to future-proof your firm, this conversation offers clarity and direction.   In this episode, you’ll be able to: •Understand how ESOPs work and why more CPA firms are considering them •Learn the legal and tax benefits that make ESOPs attractive •Discover what makes a firm a good fit for ESOP implementation •Hear insights from real-world firm experiences •Avoid common pitfalls that can derail an ESOP transition   If you’re exploring options beyond traditional succession, this episode is a must-listen!   #ESOP #CPAIndustry #SuccessionPlanning #FirmLeadership #AccountingStrategy

Do you believe luck plays a role in success? Or is it all about showing up and putting in the work?   In this episode of Everything CPA and Private Equity, Richard Kopelman, CEO of Aprio, joins Phil Whitman and David Wolfskehl to share powerful insights on mindset, leadership, and creating your own opportunities. They dive into what it really means to build a culture-first firm, why mindset drives results, and how the most successful leaders create their own momentum.   In this episode, you will be able to: • Understand the difference between a fixed and growth mindset in leadership • Discover how proactive behavior increases your chances of “getting lucky” • Learn why showing up matters more than ever in today’s CPA landscape • Hear how culture-first firms like Aprio align values with performance • Gain perspective on navigating missed opportunities and staying future-focused   Tune in to the full episode!   #CPAFirms #LeadershipMatters #MergersAndAcquisitions #PrivateEquity #WhitmanTransitionAdvisors

Worried about how tariffs and market volatility could impact your CPA firm’s future? In this special episode of Everything CPA & Private Equity, David Wolfskehl and Philip Whitman dive into how rising tariffs and stock market volatility are impacting the M&A landscape and the mindset of CPA firm leaders.   In this episode, you will be able to: •Understand how global economic news, like tariffs, could affect your firm’s future. •Hear why leadership during times of uncertainty is more important than ever. •Learn why some CPA firm owners may delay exits—and how P/E can step in. •Explore the ripple effects of a volatile stock market on succession planning. •Get practical tips for staying proactive, flexible, and opportunity-ready.   Don’t miss this timely conversation—listen now to the podcast and stay ahead of the curve.   #CPA #PrivateEquity #Tariffs #AccountingFirms #MergersAndAcquisitions

Are you a $1M–$5M CPA firm thinking private equity isn’t for you? Think again.   In this episode of Everything CPA and Private Equity, David Wolfskehl and Phil Whitman dig into why smaller, profitable firms are more valuable than ever—and how geography, succession planning, and firm mindset play a bigger role than you think.   In this episode, you will be able to: •Understand why valuations for smaller CPA firms are on the rise •Learn how profitability trumps size when it comes to private equity interest •Discover why “flying under the radar” is no longer a winning strategy •Get real-world examples of firms turning modest revenue into major value •Explore how succession and talent struggles are actually attracting investors   Don’t miss this powerful conversation—listen to the full episode now and discover what’s possible for your firm.   #CPA #PrivateEquity #FirmValuation #SuccessionPlanning #MergersAndAcquisitions