5 Question Friday (Video Segment)Guest: Charlie Stanton (LinkedIn)In this episode, I had the privilege of chatting with Charlie Stanton of Stanton Valuation Advisor. We discuss everything from the importance of business valuations to the role of tech & AI in today’s business world. Plus, don't miss out on some invaluable career insights and advice from Charlie! Tune in for an episode packed with knowledge and inspiration.Do you have a topic, question, or even a person you’d like us to interview? Click HERE to let us know! This is a public episode. If you would like to discuss this with other subscribers or get access to bonus episodes, visit thebackpackcpa.substack.com

5 Question Friday (Video Segment)Guest: Megan Justice (LinkedIn)In this week’s episode, I had the privilege of chatting with Megan Justice, an EA from Oregon. She shares with us tips on conflict management, personal growth, and the nuances of developing tailored software. From time-blocking strategies to the essence of embracing mistakes, this episode has invaluable insights into professional experiences and the underlying theme of continuous self-improvement.Do you have a topic, question, or even a person you’d like us to interview? Click HERE to let us know! This is a public episode. If you would like to discuss this with other subscribers or get access to bonus episodes, visit thebackpackcpa.substack.com

5 Question FridayGuest: Michael Meihaus (LinkedIn)Tune into this insightful chat with Michael Meihaus, a CPA from San Diego. He once dreamed of being an aeronautical engineer as a kid, but life took him down the accounting route. Drawing inspiration from his son, he believes that always asking questions and staying curious is the key to never stop learning. Michael also touches on the importance of building relationships for your growth. Join us as we chat about the intertwining threads of dreams, questions & connections in Michael's journey.Today’s episode sponsored by:Do you have a topic, question or even a person you’d like us to interview? Click HERE to let us know! This is a public episode. If you would like to discuss this with other subscribers or get access to bonus episodes, visit thebackpackcpa.substack.com

5 Question Friday (Video Segment)Guest: Amber Gray-Fenner (LinkedIn)This week’s guest is Amber Gray-Fenner, an EA & also an online journalist. We discuss the importance of lifelong learning and also the importance of building healthy habits and prioritizing your health. Amber also provides some wisdom on how to seek out leadership positions or speaking roles. Tune in for more insights & practical tips! This is a public episode. If you would like to discuss this with other subscribers or get access to bonus episodes, visit thebackpackcpa.substack.com

5 Question FridayGuest: Logan Graf (@TaxTelegraf)For this week’s episode, I had the privilege of chatting with Logan Graf, a renowned CPA and YouTuber. Logan delves into the nuances of owning an accounting firm and shares invaluable insights on balancing work and personal life, the importance of continuous learning, and effective strategies for task delegation to optimize efficiency. Plus, get a few tips on boosting your social media presence and discover a must-read book for every aspiring entrepreneur! This is a public episode. If you would like to discuss this with other subscribers or get access to bonus episodes, visit thebackpackcpa.substack.com

5 Question FridayGuest: Rafael Casas (LinkedIn)In this conversation with Rafael, he emphasizes the significance of intellectual curiosity and the power of being resourceful. He believes in the ethos of "lifelong learning," urging us to always stay updated with current trends and to absorb knowledge like a sponge. He also shares some tips on how to find mentors and also some advice on striking a balance between our personal and professional lives. Tune in for an episode packed with tips and actionable advice! This is a public episode. If you would like to discuss this with other subscribers or get access to bonus episodes, visit thebackpackcpa.substack.com

5 Question Friday (Video Segment)Guest: Josh Youngblood, EA (https://youngbloodgroupllc.com)Tune in for this insightful chat with Josh as we delve deep into the significance of setting boundaries, especially in professional settings. Also, discover how therapy can be a game-changer, not just in personal growth but also in professional success. Josh gives us a sneak peek into his day-planning techniques and shares invaluable advice on controlling one's schedule. And don’t miss out as he drops some profound wisdom on why "comparison is the thief of joy." Tune in for an episode packed with insights and actionable advice! This is a public episode. If you would like to discuss this with other subscribers or get access to bonus episodes, visit thebackpackcpa.substack.com

5 Question Friday (Video Segment)Guest: Alicyn Mcleod (https://www.atlanta.tax)Alicyn shares with us how her first job as a babysitter laid the foundation for her work ethic today. She shares insights on handling setbacks, staying motivated, and the importance of curiosity and asking questions. Tune in for some insight & motivation from a seasoned professional.Do you have a topic, question or even a person you’d like us to interview? Click HERE to let us know! This is a public episode. If you would like to discuss this with other subscribers or get access to bonus episodes, visit thebackpackcpa.substack.com

5 Question Friday (Video Segment)Guest: Luke Templin (https://www.findaily.io/)In this episode, I chat with Luke Templin from Omaha, Nebraska. We dive into the value of stepping out of your comfort zone & the rewards it brings. Luke shares insights on seeking mentors who've walked the path you're on and emphasizes the significance of being a continuous learner. Tune in for an open and honest conversation about collaboration & growth.Do you have a topic, question or even a person you’d like us to interview? Click HERE to let us know!Click the banner above & to visit FinDaily to learn how you can automate the daily delivery of custom digests from your accounting and finance APIs. This is a public episode. If you would like to discuss this with other subscribers or get access to bonus episodes, visit thebackpackcpa.substack.com

In this week’s 5 Question Friday video Grant reveals how his collegiate baseball journey has helped shape his life & firm. Plus, get insights on his unique take on handling failures. Grant also shares some tips on how he has amassed 60,000+ Instagram followers! Don't miss out! This is a public episode. If you would like to discuss this with other subscribers or get access to bonus episodes, visit thebackpackcpa.substack.com

5 Question Friday (Video Segment)Guest: John Rea (https://www.scrutinize.io/)Don’t miss this enriching conversation with John Rea, the accountant turned developer behind "Scrutinize." Emphasizing the importance of health, he touches on the power of networking, introduces "self-covenants," and offers advice on balancing professional and personal lives. Be sure to tune in for a glimpse of John's distinctive take on life and business.Click the banner above & to visit Scrutinize to learn how you can automate your bookkeeping file reviews, quickly and profitably scope new projects & more! This is a public episode. If you would like to discuss this with other subscribers or get access to bonus episodes, visit thebackpackcpa.substack.com

5 Question Friday (New Video Segment)Guest: Lorilynn Wilson, CPA (https://madwomanmedia.co/)In this video, Lorilyn takes us through her intriguing journey from college softball, through political science, to accounting. She also provides some insight into the importance of owning up to and apologizing for our mistakes, addressing misinformation on social media, and the crucial role of networking for personal and professional growth. Tune in for an inspiring story and valuable insights. This is a public episode. If you would like to discuss this with other subscribers or get access to bonus episodes, visit thebackpackcpa.substack.com

5 Question Friday (New Video Segment)Guest: Randy Crabtree, CPA (The Unique CPA Conference)In this insightful interview, Randy emphasizes the power of passion and delegation in achieving professional success. He advises us to find the intersection of our passion and skills. Randy also provides valuable information about upcoming The Unique CPA conference. Tune in to uncover valuable insights and wisdom that could transform your professional journey.Click the banner above & to visit The Unique CPA Conference website. Use code SPKR649BTG for $150 off of your conference registration fee.Thanks for reading 5 Minute Friday - by The Backpack CPA! Subscribe for free to receive new posts and support my work. This is a public episode. If you would like to discuss this with other subscribers or get access to bonus episodes, visit thebackpackcpa.substack.com

Guest: Megan Tarnow (https://www.linkedin.com/in/megantarnow)In this episode, Megan, a seasoned accountant & consultant for nonprofits, shares her unique journey. She shares her experience of moving to Japan with limited resources, highlighting the growth that comes from such challenges. The discussion also emphasizes the importance of networking and the transformative impact of putting yourself out there. Tune in for an inspiring story and valuable advice.Thanks for reading 5 Minute Friday - by The Backpack CPA! Subscribe for free to receive new posts and support my work. This is a public episode. If you would like to discuss this with other subscribers or get access to bonus episodes, visit thebackpackcpa.substack.com

5 Question Friday (New Video Segment)Guest: Liz Farr, CPA (https://farrcommunications.com)Ever felt trapped in your job and yearned for something different? Liz Farr, our guest, reminds us that it's okay to seek change & to trust your instincts and don't be too hard on yourself if things don't go as planned. Don't miss out on our insightful interview with Liz Farr, where she shares her unique journey, experiences, and wisdom. Tune in to gain valuable insights and inspiration for your own career path. Listen now! This is a public episode. If you would like to discuss this with other subscribers or get access to bonus episodes, visit thebackpackcpa.substack.com

Welcome to The Backpack CPA! This is episode #4  - The Importance of Sharing. I sat down with Manoj Shah of FinSmart Accounting out of India and talked about what it means to share and WHY we should share!We had a deep conversation about the importance of sharing and how it is an integral part of our lives. Sharing enables us to grow into better humans!  If we want to grow both personally & professionally, we must know "why" to share!Manoj makes a great point that we are always either giving or taking - i.e. the transition of sharing is always happening. Also, we're shifting from a "owning" economy to a "sharing" economy.Check it out for some really great insight into the concept of sharing!Host:Vimal (Vic) Bava (Twitter: @vimalcpa)www.TheBackpackCPA.comGuest on the episode:Manoj ShahFinSmart AccountingThank you to our sponsor:getW9.taxgetW9.taxAn easy & secure way to collect and store the IRS Form W-9. No more printing, scanning or filling out blank PDF files! This is a public episode. If you would like to discuss this with other subscribers or get access to bonus episodes, visit thebackpackcpa.substack.com

Welcome to The Backpack CPA! This is episode #3  - Getting into FLOW!We are not the happiest when we are relaxing, instead we are the happiest when we are in the FLOW state! Flow is when you are so in the moment that time is flying by and you're super productive and getting work done!What is a flow state?How can we get into flow?How can being in flow benefit us?Resources Mentioned:Flow by Mihaly CsikszentmihalyiGuests on the episode:Vic Bava (Twitter: @vimalcpa)www.TheBackpackCPA.comThank you to our sponsor:getW9.taxgetW9.taxAn easy & secure way to collect and store the IRS Form W-9. No more printing, scanning or filling out blank PDF files! This is a public episode. If you would like to discuss this with other subscribers or get access to bonus episodes, visit thebackpackcpa.substack.com

Welcome to The Backpack CPA! This is episode #2  - Having a Growth Mindset. A growth mindset is very important for both your personal & professional growth.In this episode I go over:What is a growth mindset?How can we develop a growth mindset?How a growth mind set can benefit us?Resources Mentioned:15 Ways to Build a Growth Mindset by Dr. Tchiki Davis, Ph.D.https://www.psychologytoday.com/us/blog/click-here-happiness/201904/15-ways-build-growth-mindsetGuests on the episode:Vic Bava (Twitter: @vimalcpa)www.TheBackpackCPA.comThank you to our sponsor:getW9.taxgetW9.taxAn easy & secure way to collect and store the IRS Form W-9. No more printing, scanning or filling out blank PDF files! This is a public episode. If you would like to discuss this with other subscribers or get access to bonus episodes, visit thebackpackcpa.substack.com

Welcome to The Backpack CPA, where we're going to take you on a bunch of different human journeys.  On July 26, 2022, I sat down (on Zoom) with two other professionals from the accounting/business world and we  took a deep dive into self limiting beliefs and how they are a poison in our professional lives. We discussed:What are self-limiting beliefs?How do we develop self-limiting beliefs?How can we overcome self-limiting beliefs?Some actionable items/resources you could rely on.Books & Resources Mentioned:Start by Jon Acuff10% Happier by Dan HarrisThe Proximity Principle by Ken ColemanFeeling Good: The New Mood Therapy by David D. BurnsThe Monk Who Sold His Ferrari  by Robin SharmaInner Engineering Online CourseLife mantra developed by John Rea: "This is my life and these are my choices."Guests on the episode:Vic Bava (Twitter: @vimalcpa)John Rea (Twitter: @johnrea88)Joel AndersonThank you to our two sponsors:Scrutinize.iogetW9.taxScrutinize.io - Close client books faster and more accurately.Scrutinize automates month-end bookkeeping file reviews so your team can service more clients without sacrificing quality.Speed up month-end closeIncrease revenue per bookkeeperImprove processes and close training gapsgetW9.tax - An easy & secure way to collect and store the IRS Form W-9. No more printing, scanning or filling out blank PDF files! This is a public episode. If you would like to discuss this with other subscribers or get access to bonus episodes, visit thebackpackcpa.substack.com

This first episode is an introduction to the The Backpack CPA (TBC). TBC is a concept/idea that has been created and launched by Vic Bava, CPA from Arkansas. Vic & his  (famous) backpack will go on a journey through the accounting & tax profession to discuss/bring up topics that directly impact us in the profession and also topics to help each other grow and get through certain issues. We invite you to start "growing" the the professional journey with us instead of just "going" through it! This is a public episode. If you would like to discuss this with other subscribers or get access to bonus episodes, visit thebackpackcpa.substack.com