Doug, Matt, and Emily look ahead to Sage's upcoming Partner Summit in Orlando and discuss what to expect as the company kicks off fiscal year 2026. The conversation covers everything from AI implementation reality versus marketing speak to potential shifts in go-to-market strategy, price sensitivity in uncertain economic times, and why Sage is flooding construction conferences. Matt and Emily each make bold predictions about what might get announced at the closed-door partner event—and they'll be back to see who was right.
Sponsors
Bluebook - https://unsage.promo/bluebook
Get free CPE for listening to this podcast
Download the Earmark App
Apple: https://apps.apple.com/us/app/earmark-cpe/id1562599728
Android: https://play.google.com/store/apps/details?id=com.earmarkcpe.app
Ximena Maynard, CFO of Legacy Management Group, shares how she consolidated 30 separate QuickBooks files across 11 nursing facilities into a unified Sage Intacct system. She discusses the unique compliance challenges in healthcare finance, from managing resident trust funds to navigating complex Medicaid billing, and tackles the industry's biggest challenge of attracting and retaining quality staff.
Sponsors
Bluebook - https://unsage.promo/bluebook
Get free CPE for listening to this podcast
Download the Earmark App
Apple: https://apps.apple.com/us/app/earmark-cpe/id1562599728
Android: https://play.google.com/store/apps/details?id=com.earmarkcpe.app
Josh Smyser shares how he went from Big Four auditor to running his family's tuckpointing and restoration business after his father's death, growing TNT from $200K to over $6M in revenue. He explains why he chose Sage Intacct at just $3M in revenue, how he learned from a painful Sage 100 implementation to take control of his Intacct setup, and why he prioritizes best-of-breed software like Procore, Intacct, and Salesforce to prepare his company for AI integration.
Sponsors
Assembly - https://unsage.promo/assembly
Connect with the Hosts:
https://www.linkedin.com/in/emilybmadere
https://www.linkedin.com/in/mattlescault
https://www.linkedin.com/in/dlewis715
Get free CPE for listening to this podcast
https://www.earmark.app
Download the Earmark App
Apple: https://apps.apple.com/us/app/earmark-cpe/id1562599728
Android: https://play.google.com/store/apps/details?id=com.earmarkcpe.app
Scott Hollrah, founder of Venn Technology, shares war stories from a decade in the Sage Intacct integration space, including the gaming company employee who quit mid-project due to spreadsheet burnout. The conversation covers when businesses outgrow packaged solutions like the Advanced CRM connector, how automation serves as an employee retention tool, and why AI adoption remains frustratingly slow despite the marketing hype.
Karen Penhallegon returns to break down Sage Intacct's latest release notes, covering the game-changing MineralTree partnership that finally gives users an end-to-end AP solution and the new AI-powered close workspace for early adopters. The team dives into long-awaited customer ideas like enhanced time tracking with overtime rules and customizable entry screens, plus the important requirement for all users to validate their email domains.
Connect with the Hosts:
https://www.linkedin.com/in/emilybmadere
https://www.linkedin.com/in/mattlescault
https://www.linkedin.com/in/dlewis715
Get free CPE for listening to this podcast
https://www.earmark.app
Download the Earmark App
Apple: https://apps.apple.com/us/app/earmark-cpe/id1562599728
Android: https://play.google.com/store/apps/details?id=com.earmarkcpe.app
This bonus episode pulls back the curtain on how The Unofficial Sage Intacct Podcast came together and who the hosts really are beyond their professional roles. Doug, Emily, and Matt discuss what's going well and what's been challenging in 2025, reveal some unexpected personal hobbies and interests, and reflect on their mid-year wins and upcoming travel plans. They also offer their best advice for finishing the year strong.
Richard Corn, Director of Product Management at Bill, joins Doug and Emily to discuss how financial teams can break free from manual processes and embrace true automation. A former CPA turned product leader, Richard shares real-world transformation stories, including how Mark Cuban Companies eliminated their paper AP workflows, and explains why the accounting profession isn't disappearing but evolving toward higher-value advisory work. From unlimited virtual cards to AI-powered insights, Richard reveals what's coming next in the financial automation space and why now is the time for finance teams to stop protecting inefficient processes and start eliminating them entirely.
Sponsors
Get free CPE for listening to this podcast
Download the Earmark App
Apple: https://apps.apple.com/us/app/earmark-cpe/id1562599728
Android: https://play.google.com/store/apps/details?id=com.earmarkcpe.app
After Intuit reached out to clarify a few misconceptions from Matt’s earlier take on Enterprise Suite, he dove deep into product demos to get the real story. Doug and Matt deliver an unfiltered comparison between Intuit Enterprise Suite and Sage Intacct, covering everything from pricing strategies to AI capabilities. They break down which solution fits different business scenarios, revealing why your choice between these platforms might not be as obvious as you think.
Sponsors
Payhawk - https://unsage.promo/payhawk
Get free CPE for listening to this podcast
Download the Earmark App
Apple: https://apps.apple.com/us/app/earmark-cpe/id1562599728
Android: https://play.google.com/store/apps/details?id=com.earmarkcpe.app
Emily and Matt are joined by Eisner Amper's Skye Duhon to dissect Sage Intacct's 2025 R2 release and its mission to "knock down barriers so everyone can thrive." They explore the exciting new AI co-pilot sub-ledger reconciliation assistant, enhanced CRM integrations, and significant improvements to fixed assets and regional tax compliance. The conversation covers everything from automated WIP relief for construction companies to the long-awaited AP automation purchasing capabilities, plus some wishlist items like a full mobile app and better data migration tools.
Sponsors
Payhawk - https://unsage.promo/payhawk
Get free CPE for listening to this podcast
Download the Earmark App
Apple: https://apps.apple.com/us/app/earmark-cpe/id1562599728
Android: https://play.google.com/store/apps/details?id=com.earmarkcpe.app
Julie Adams, SVP of Construction and Real Estate Products at Sage, discusses how AI is revolutionizing construction from bid management to field operations. She explores Sage Intacct Construction's journey from a 2020 launch during COVID to becoming the fastest-growing vertical, featuring AI-powered takeoff tools, drawing management, and predictive bidding that helps contractors win projects at the right price. The conversation covers how modern construction teams are moving beyond spreadsheets and paper processes to integrated platforms that connect pre-construction, project management, and financials in one seamless workflow.
**We apologize for the audio quality issues that occur the final 10-15minutes through this episode. This interview was recorded live at Sage Future conference, and we experienced some technical difficulties during the recording. Thank you for your patience and understanding.**
Connect with the Hosts:
https://www.linkedin.com/in/emilybmadere
https://www.linkedin.com/in/mattlescault
https://www.linkedin.com/in/dlewis715
Get free CPE for listening to this podcast
https://www.earmark.app
Download the Earmark App
Apple: https://apps.apple.com/us/app/earmark-cpe/id1562599728
Android: https://play.google.com/store/apps/details?id=com.earmarkcpe.app
Recording live from the Sage Future conference in Atlanta, Emily and Matt sit down with Dan Miller, who runs Sage's Financials and ERP division, to discuss how AI is fundamentally shifting finance teams from tactical work to strategic business partnership. Miller shares his 15-year journey with the company and reveals Sage's approach to building trustworthy AI with audit trails, the evolution of continuous close from "bedtime story" to reality, and why the future isn't about replacing accountants but empowering them to spend weekends at their kids' games instead of reconciling spreadsheets. He also clarifies the difference between Sage AI Copilot and Microsoft Copilot, discusses the upcoming native cloud solution for Sage X3, and explains why accuracy in AI can't be "just 90%" when it comes to accounting.
Sponsors
Payhawk - https://unsage.promo/payhawk
Connect with the Hosts:
https://www.linkedin.com/in/emilybmadere
https://www.linkedin.com/in/mattlescault
https://www.linkedin.com/in/dlewis715
Get free CPE for listening to this podcast
https://www.earmark.app
Download the Earmark App
Apple: https://apps.apple.com/us/app/earmark-cpe/id1562599728
Android: https://play.google.com/store/apps/details?id=com.earmarkcpe.app
Recording live from the Accounting Today Firm Growth Forum in San Diego, the hosts sit down with Frank Longobardi (former CEO of CohnReznick) and Dario Grassini from SAPRO to discuss the evolution of global staffing in accounting. The conversation covers how firms can successfully integrate international talent, the cultural nuances of working with teams from South Africa and India, and why starting with senior talent is key to offshore success. Dan Hood from Accounting Today also joins to share insights on helping firms navigate constant change in the profession.
Connect with the Guests:
https://www.linkedin.com/in/dariograssini
https://www.linkedin.com/in/frankplongobardi
https://www.linkedin.com/in/daniel-hood-3494ab49
Connect with the Hosts:
https://www.linkedin.com/in/emilybmadere
https://www.linkedin.com/in/mattlescault
https://www.linkedin.com/in/dlewis715
Michael Blanton from Sage joins the show and breaks down the harsh reality facing nonprofits: only 9% consider themselves data-driven despite widespread recognition of its importance. With staffing crises, funding uncertainty, and political chaos creating unprecedented challenges, organizations are scrambling for revenue diversification and better technology solutions. Michael explains why this turbulent moment might actually be the perfect time for nonprofits to modernize their financial systems.
Sponsors
Payhawk - https://unsage.promo/payhawk
Connect with the Hosts:
https://www.linkedin.com/in/emilybmadere
https://www.linkedin.com/in/mattlescault
https://www.linkedin.com/in/dlewis715
Get free CPE for listening to this podcast
https://www.earmark.app
Download the Earmark App
Apple: https://apps.apple.com/us/app/earmark-cpe/id1562599728
Android: https://play.google.com/store/apps/details?id=com.earmarkcpe.app
Mark Hickman, Managing Director of North America at Sage, joins the podcast to discuss the upcoming Sage Future event, which replaces the former Transform conference and is expected to draw over 5,000 attendees. Mark shares insights about exciting announcements coming to Sage Copilot, the expansion of Sage HR into the North American market, and teases game-changing developments that will be revealed at the event.
Sponsors
Payhawk - https://unsage.promo/payhawk
Connect with the Hosts:
https://www.linkedin.com/in/emilybmadere
https://www.linkedin.com/in/mattlescault
https://www.linkedin.com/in/dlewis715
Get free CPE for listening to this podcast
https://www.earmark.app
Download the Earmark App
Apple: https://apps.apple.com/us/app/earmark-cpe/id1562599728
Android: https://play.google.com/store/apps/details?id=com.earmarkcpe.app
Steve Howe from Times Three Technologies (T3T) in South Africa joins the podcast to share insights on Sage X3 and Intacct implementations across different markets. Steve explains how T3T's focus on Sage products has led them to become a leading partner, winning the executive partner award four of the last five years. The conversation explores key differences between product-centric X3 and service-oriented Intacct implementations, while highlighting how regional market differences shape ERP strategy and adoption around the world.
Get free CPE for listening to this podcast
Download the Earmark App
Apple: https://apps.apple.com/us/app/earmark-cpe/id1562599728
Android: https://play.google.com/store/apps/details?id=com.earmarkcpe.app
Michael Hulett from Avalara joins the podcast to explain how their tax compliance software helps businesses navigate the increasingly complex landscape of sales tax regulations. With over 43,000 customers, 1,200+ integrations, and expertise handling more than 12,000 tax jurisdictions, Avalara has become the global leader in making tax compliance manageable. Michael shares fascinating insights about the most challenging tax scenarios, from software's evolving taxability to the complexities of state-specific regulations and even the different tax treatments of sliced versus unsliced bagels in New York.
{campaign_start}}
Connect with the Hosts:
https://www.linkedin.com/in/emilybmadere
https://www.linkedin.com/in/mattlescault
https://www.linkedin.com/in/dlewis715
Get free CPE for listening to this podcast
https://www.earmark.app
Download the Earmark App
Apple: https://apps.apple.com/us/app/earmark-cpe/id1562599728
Android: https://play.google.com/store/apps/details?id=com.earmarkcpe.app
Three-time Platinum Club member Angela Nelson shares her 15-year journey at Sage, discussing how construction firms are finally embracing technology after decades as digital laggards. Angela explains the evolution of Sage's construction offerings from Timberline to Sage Intacct Construction, revealing how generational shifts and recent acquisitions are transforming the industry. Her unique perspective as a Partner Account Manager provides valuable insights into how Sage is positioning itself as the end-to-end solution for construction firms worldwide.
Connect with the Hosts:
https://www.linkedin.com/in/emilybmadere
https://www.linkedin.com/in/mattlescault
https://www.linkedin.com/in/dlewis715
Get free CPE for listening to this podcast
https://www.earmark.app
Download the Earmark App
Apple: https://apps.apple.com/us/app/earmark-cpe/id1562599728
Android: https://play.google.com/store/apps/details?id=com.earmarkcpe.app
Barrett King, Head of Alliances at Ramp, shares insights on how the company is revolutionizing corporate spend management and financial operations. From Ramp's partnership with Sage Intact to the future of procurement, Barrett discusses how technology is transforming the way businesses manage their finances, cutting month-end close processes from weeks to minutes. The conversation explores the power of connected systems, data-driven decision making, and how Ramp's all-in-one solution is helping companies optimize not just their money but their time.
Connect with the Hosts:
https://www.linkedin.com/in/emilybmadere
https://www.linkedin.com/in/mattlescault
https://www.linkedin.com/in/dlewis715
Get free CPE for listening to this podcast
https://www.earmark.app
Download the Earmark App
Apple: https://apps.apple.com/us/app/earmark-cpe/id1562599728
Android: https://play.google.com/store/apps/details?id=com.earmarkcpe.app
Karen Penhallegon is back to help Doug and Emily break down Sage Intacct's latest release notes. The team explores key updates to multi-currency capabilities, AP automation with purchasing integration, and the introduction of Co-Pilot AI features. They unpack how these changes impact different industries, with particular focus on healthcare's new clinical e-procurement solution and improved lending management functionality.
Connect with the Hosts:
https://www.linkedin.com/in/emilybmadere
https://www.linkedin.com/in/mattlescault
https://www.linkedin.com/in/dlewis715
Get free CPE for listening to this podcast
https://www.earmark.app
Download the Earmark App
Apple: https://apps.apple.com/us/app/earmark-cpe/id1562599728
Android: https://play.google.com/store/apps/details?id=com.earmarkcpe.app
Juha Harkonen, VP of Partners and Operations at Sage, provides an insider's perspective on the evolving landscape of technology partnerships and advisory services. He shares valuable insights on how partners can differentiate themselves through verticalization, adapt to changing technology, and build sustainable practices in an AI-driven future. The conversation explores the nuances between different partner programs, marketplace strategies, and the critical elements that make partnerships successful in today's rapidly changing business environment.
Connect with the Hosts:
https://www.linkedin.com/in/emilybmadere
https://www.linkedin.com/in/mattlescault
https://www.linkedin.com/in/dlewis715
Get free CPE for listening to this podcast
https://www.earmark.app
Download the Earmark App
Apple: https://apps.apple.com/us/app/earmark-cpe/id1562599728
Android: https://play.google.com/store/apps/details?id=com.earmarkcpe.app