Accounting Life Podcast
Listen to fellow accountants discuss their experiences with accruals, audits, accounting automation, ERP systems and more.
Episode 58
The State of IPOs in 2025 & How AI is Changing the Game
In this episode of #AccountingLifePodcast, host Jotham Ty and guest Barrett Daniels, Partner and US IPO Services Co-Leader for Deloitte, discuss the latest trends in the IPO market and the evolving role of AI in finance. They break down the current state of IPOs in 2025, why market volatility continues to impact public offerings, and how AI is revolutionizing IPO readiness, financial reporting, and technical accounting processes.
Episode 57
From Operator to Advisor: Navigating Growth-Stage Finance
In this episode of #AccountingLifePodcast, host Jotham Ty is joined by guest Ljupco Fidanovski, Founder and CEO of E3 Management Solutions, to explore the nuances of leading finance teams through growth and transformation. Ljupco shares his journey from hands-on finance operator to trusted advisor, offering insights into team building, partnering with founders, and adapting to the ever-evolving needs of scaling companies.
Episode 56
The Future of Finance: Scaling Teams, Owning Strategy & Embracing AI
In this episode of #AccountingLifePodcast, host Jotham Ty is joined by guest Dan Fletcher, CFO at Planful, to explore what it means to build a modern, strategic finance function. They discuss the evolving role of finance leaders, the importance of storytelling and cross-functional alignment, and how AI is beginning to reshape accounting operations—from contract review to cash forecasting.
Episode 55
Optimizing Your Tech Stack: Insights from an Accounting Leader
In this episode of #AccountingLifePodcast, host Jotham Ty is joined by guest Matt Dobson, SVP, Chief Accounting Officer at Zuora, to discuss how accounting professionals can upgrade their tech stacks. They explore key tools, best practices, and what to consider when choosing the right solutions for your business.
Episode 54
Finance Transformation & AI: The Future of Accounting Innovation
In this episode, host Jotham Ty is joined by guests Alyssa Perez, Sr. Manager, Finance Transformation & M&A at Principal Consulting Group, and Ryan Volk, Managing Partner at Principal Consulting Group. They discuss how AI and finance transformation are reshaping accounting workflows, the challenges firms face in modernization, and what the future holds for financial professionals.
Episode 53
AI & Entrepreneurship in Accounting
In this episode of #AccountingLifePodcast, host Jotham Ty is joined by guest Andrew Antos, CEO & Co-founder of Klarity. Andrew shares his journey as a founder, insights on AI’s role in accounting, and what the future holds for automation in finance.
Episode 52
Part #4: The Future of AI in Accounting
In this episode of #AccountingLifePodcast, host Jotham Ty is joined by guest Jason Pikoos, Managing Partner, Technology & Innovation at Connor Group. Jason returns to discuss how AI continues to reshape the accounting world. From automation to predictive analytics, we explore how AI is revolutionizing finance and what professionals need to know.
Episode 51
Sales Tax Secrets: What Every Accountant Needs to Know
In this episode, host Jotham Ty is joined by guest Michelle Valentine, Co-Founder and CEO at Anrok, to break down the complexities of sales tax, economic nexus, and compliance challenges—especially for software and digital-first companies. From the impact of remote employees to international VAT considerations, Michelle shares valuable insights that every finance professional should know.
Episode 50
Demystifying Accruals: Insights from Audits
In this episode, host Jotham Ty is joined by guest Jason Dias, an experienced Audit Partner. We dive into the intricacies of accruals and how they are evaluated during audits. From understanding key audit procedures to exploring the evolving challenges of modern accounting systems, Jason provides practical insights and real-world examples.
Episode 49
From Accountant to CFO: Mentorship, Soft Skills, and Storytelling
In this episode, host Jotham Ty is joined by guest Kathie Jones, Chief Financial Officer at Eptura. Kathie shares her journey from accountant to CFO, highlighting the skills and mindset shifts required to thrive in finance leadership. She discusses the value of mentorship, storytelling, and team development while emphasizing the importance of soft skills in building trust and collaboration across departments.
Episode 48
Building Strong Finance and Accounting Partnerships
In this episode of the #AccountingLifePodcast, host Jotham Ty and guest Rahul Somani, EVP of Product & Engineering at Gappify, explore how finance systems, IT, and accounting teams can build strong partnerships through mutual understanding, prioritization, trust, and effective collaboration.
Episode 47
Unlocking AI’s Potential in Accounting: Curiosity, Play, and Innovation
In this episode of #AccountingLifePodcast, host Jotham Ty is joined by guest Angela Liu, Gaapsavvy Founder and Advisor at Everest Systems, for an engaging discussion on how AI is revolutionizing the accounting profession. From early hesitations to practical use cases, we explore how curiosity and play are key to leveraging AI’s transformative potential.
Episode 46
Remote, Hybrid, or In-Office? Finding the Right Balance in Accounting Teams
In this episode of #AccountingLifePodcast, host Jotham Ty and guest Senad Mustafic explore the evolving landscape of work environments in the accounting profession. From fully remote setups to hybrid and traditional in-office models, Senad shares thoughtful insights on the pros and cons of each approach, drawing from his experience as a finance leader in the SaaS industry.
Episode 45
Part #3: AI Accuracy & Controls
How can accountants peer into the AI black box? On this episode of the #AccountingLifePodcast, we are joined for a third and final time by Jason Pikoos, Managing Partner of Client Experience at Connor Group, to discuss concerns around compliance and controls, as well as what to look for in an AI vendor.
Episode 44
Part #2: AI Deep Dive
What common myths exist around AI? On this episode of the #AccountingLifePodcast, we are once again joined by Jason Pikoos, Managing Partner of Client Experience at Connor Group, to discuss the various forms of AI as well as how companies are accessing this technology.
Episode 43
6 Ways to Know If You Are Ready for AI
Is your company ready for AI? On this episode of the #AccountingLifePodcast, we talk with Jason Pikoos, Managing Partner of Client Experience at Connor Group, about what indicators to consider when evaluating your AI readiness, along with advice for CFOs trying to get started.
Episode 42
Life in Accounting Advisory Services
Have you considered a career in accounting advisory? On this episode, Jotham Ty talks with Lauren Robinson, Manager, Accounting & Financial Reporting Advisor at TBH Consulting, about what it’s like working in this exciting field and the skills you’ll develop along the way.
Episode 41
Technology and The Modern Day Auditor
How has the audit industry evolved when it comes to technology adoption? On today’s episode of the #AccountingLifePodcast, we talk with Katie Hannah, Solutions Consultant at Gappify and former Audit Manager at Deloitte, about how tech is empowering a new generation of accountants.
Episode 40
How Accountants Add Value
Why are accountants the doctors of the business world? On today’s episode of the #AccountingLifePodcast, we’re talking with Nick Corradino (Manager, Solutions Consulting at Tipalti) about:
- The value of having different experiences in finance.
- Thoughts on the future of accounting.
- The importance of the human element.
Episode 39
The Value of Mentorship
Why should every accountant seek out a mentor? On today’s episode of the #AccountingLifePodcast, we’re talking with KJ Neish (Product Manager at Floqast) about the importance of mentoring, how to find a mentor or to become one, and so much more!
Episode 38
A Founder’s Journey
What ingredients do you need to become a successful founder? On today’s episode of the #AccountingLifePodcast, we’re talking with Bijan Moallemi (Co-Founder and CEO, Mosaic) about how pain points lead to innovation, balancing the opposing forces of passion and pressure, and so much more!
Episode 37
The Importance of Recharging
Why should every working professional take a career break to recharge their batteries? On today’s episode of the #AccountingLifePodcast, we’re talking with Samee Vohra (Corporate Finance, Atlassian) about the benefits of a sabbatical. We’ll also hear some tips on how to make the most of your time off.
Relaunch - Episode 15
Big 4 Learnings with Erik Zhou
What can you learn by working at the Big 4? On this episode of the #AccountingLifePodcast, we talk with Erik Zhou (CAO at Brex) about important experiences you should seek out early in your accounting career.
Episode 36
Accounting and Technology
Why does accounting lag behind when it comes to technology adoption? On today’s episode of the #AccountingLifePodcast, we’re talking with Emily Daigle (VP & GM, Zuora Revenue) about the role tech can play in the future of accounting.
Episode 35
How to Save Accounting with Kinman Tong
Is social media creating misconceptions about how a successful professional career should look? On today’s episode of the #AccountingLifePodcast, we’re speaking with Kinman Tong (Partner, Moss Adams) about a few ways to strengthen the accounting profession.
Episode 34
The Importance of Establishing Work-Life Balance as an Accounting Leader
Is it possible to balance an accounting career and Muay Thai? On today’s episode of the #AccountingLifePodcast, we’re talking with Giulia Migliaccio (Controller, mParticle) about how you can balance the demands of both work and life.
Episode 33
Does the Accounting Industry need a Rebrand?
Does the accounting industry need a rebrand? On this episode of the #AccountingLifePodcast, we’re talking with Dan Fletcher (CFO, Planful) about the issues impacting the future of the accounting profession.
Episode 32
What Would've Kept Me in the Accounting Profession
In recent years, the accounting profession has seen an exodus of people leaving the industry. But what can we actually do to fix this problem? Today, we’re joined by our very own Todd Carry (Product Manager, Gappify), to discuss some ways to attract and retain accounting talent.
Episode 31
Perspectives on Accounting Tech & State of the Profession
How do you balance the need to invest in technology with budgetary constraints? On this episode of the #AccountingLifePodcast, we welcome Michael Kelly (Director of Accounting, Turo), to talk about accounting tech and the state of the accounting profession.
Episode 30
Learning & Development in Accounting
How do you develop talent on your team? Today we’re joined by Kristen Rampe (Managing Partner, Rosenberg Associates) to talk about learning and development in accounting.
Episode 29
The Future of Accounting and Finance Systems
Episode 28
Internal Audit & Controls with Rich Woodson
Why should accountants consider Internal Audit as a career path? On this episode of the #AccountingLifePodcast, we welcome Alfred Woodson (Rich), Director of Internal Audit at Sunrun, to talk about the joys and challenges that come with working in this area of accounting.
Episode 27
State of the IPO Market with Barrett Daniels
We are currently in an IPO slump, but how long will it last? On this episode of the #AccountingLifePodcast, we welcome back Barrett Daniels (Partner, Deloitte) to help us figure out how we got here, what the trends indicate for 2023, and what pre-IPO companies can do before they go public.
Episode 26
2023 Hiring Trends and Compensation for Accounting Professionals
What will the accounting job market look like in 2023? On this episode of the #AccountingLifePodcast, we’re joined by Kristine Aragon (Senior VP, Robert Half) to discuss important hiring and retention trends, as well as insights from Robert Half’s 2023 Salary Guide.
Episode 25
My First Non-Accounting Role with Mike Pietrobon
Have you ever considered a career beyond accounting? On this episode of the #AccountingLifePodcast, we’re joined by Mike Pietrobon (CPA and Product Marketing Manager, Gappify) for advice on how to leverage your accounting skills and experience for success in a wide variety of careers.
Episode 24
Importance of Culture for Global Accounting Teams
How important is it for you to develop a team culture for your accounting organization? In this episode of the #AccountingLifePodcast, we’re joined by Gene Liu (CAO, Atlassian) to discuss how you can build a culture that results in reduced turnover, and time and cost savings for your accounting team.
Episode 23
Navigating Technical Guidance in Accounting
How do you navigate technical guidance in accounting? On this episode of the #AccountingLifePodcast, we’re joined by Angela Liu (Former Director of Technical Accounting & Revenue at Glassdoor) about the strategic importance of technical accounting and its nuanced relationship with operational accounting.
Episode 22
The Importance of "Heart" in Accounting
What does “heart” have to do with accounting? Isn’t accounting just about numbers? If this doesn’t seem to add up, you’ve come to the right place. In this episode of the #AccountingLifePodcast, we’re joined by TaraMcDonough (Executive Coach & former Controller at Glassdoor) to talk about why accountants need to bring heart into their work.
Episode 21
Promoting Professional Development for Accountants
You’ve hired the right people for your accounting team, so now what? On this episode of the #AccountingLifePodcast, we’re joined by Senad Mustafic (CAO at Benchling) to discuss his thoughts on professional development strategies for retaining accountants.
Episode 20
The Chief Accounting Officer Role
The Chief Accounting Officer (CAO) provides the accounting department a seat at the “executive table” and the opportunity to make broad, strategic company contributions. What makes an accountant a good fit for chief accounting officer? On this episode of the #AccountingLifePodcast, we’ve reassembled our expert panel of CAOs, Angelina Hendraka (PowerSchool), Amy Garefis (ZipRecruiter), and Wendy Zheng, (OneTrust), to discuss what it takes to move from an accountant to CAO.
Episode 19
Accounting ERP Evolution
What do accountants need to know about ERP systems to better manage their day-to-day operations? On this episode of the #AccountingLifePodcast, Neil Chua (Managing Director, SOAProjects) discusses important ERP trends and developments to help accountants stay up to date on the latest & greatest in ERP.
Episode 18
From Accountant to Startup Founder
What does it take to go from an accountant, to an entrepreneur, to a CEO? Why is it so rare to see accountants choose this career route? On this episode of the #AccountingLifePodcast, we welcome back Guzel Lumpkin (CFO, Innova Medical Group) to interview Gappify CEO & Founder, Jotham Ty about his journey from accountant to CEO.
Episode 17
Embracing Accounting Leadership
What can accountants do to become better leaders? On this episode of the #AccountingLifePodcast, we talk with Carla Harris (Senior Client Advisor, Morgan Stanley) about how to embrace accounting leadership and her new book: “Lead to Win: How to Be a Powerful, Impactful, Influential Leader in Any Environment.”
Episode 16
Accounting Perspectives from Today's IPO Environment
How should accountants think about pre-IPO companies in this time of unprecedented challenges and surprises? On this episode of the #AccountingLifePodcast, we talk with Barrett Daniels (Partner, Deloitte) about how you can navigate the pre-IPO market.
Episode 15
Big 4 Learnings
What can you learn by working at the Big 4? On this episode of the #AccountingLifePodcast, we talk with Erik Zhou (CAO at Brex) about important experiences you should seek out early in your accounting career.
Episode 14
The Awesome Path for Accountants in Sales Engineering Roles
Why are so many organizations placing former accountants in sales positions? On this new episode of the #AccountingLifePodcast, we talk with Tanya Firdman (Sales Engineering Leader at Teampay), about sales as a career path for accountants.
Episode 13
Tales from the Corporate Tax Fairy
What does it take to work in corporate tax? On this new episode of the #AccountingLifePodcast, we talk with Lorraine McIntire (VP of Tax at Camping World). Lorraine makes the case for why tax accounting can be an enjoyable career path.
Episode 12
Exciting Careers in Internal Audit & Compliance
A career in compliance offers rich opportunities to be involved in your company’s strategy. On this episode of the #AccountingLifePodcast, Susan Coleman (VP Internal Audit & Controls, GoPro) shares why internal audit and SOX compliance roles may be a good fit for accountants.
Episode 11
Finance Systems Path for Accountants
On this new episode of the #AccountingLifePodcast, we chatted with Damon McLay, a financial systems leader and former accountant. Learn how he made the journey from an accountant to a Director of Finance Systems at Fastly, and the steps you can take to prepare yourself for a career in financial systems at your organization!
Episode 10
Controller Perspectives, Part 2
Ever wonder what it’s like to be a Controller? On this new episode of the #AccountingLifePodcast, we chatted with Angelina Hendraka (Chief Accounting Officer at PowerSchool), Amy Garefis (Chief Accounting Officer at ZipRecruiter), and Wendy Zheng (VP Controller at Okta).
Episode 9
Building Rockstar Accounting Teams
If you could start over and create your accounting team from scratch, what would you change? On this episode of the #AccountingLifePodcast, we talked to Senad Mustafic, Chief Accounting Officer at Benchling, about what it takes to succeed with this highly critical responsibility.
Episode 8
Accounting at Pre-IPO Companies
In this episode we talk to Barrett Daniels (Partner, Deloitte) about what it takes to work in a pre-IPO environment. Barrett has extensive experience working with pre-IPO companies and has been interviewed by top media outlets to provide insights on the IPO market and recent trends. We’re honored to have him in this episode!
Episode 7
Controller Perspectives, Part 1
Ever wonder what it’s like to be a Controller? On this new episode of the #AccountingLifePodcast, we chatted with Angelina Hendraka (Chief Accounting Officer at PowerSchool), Amy Garefis (Chief Accounting Officer at ZipRecruiter), and Wendy Zheng (VP Controller at Okta).
Episode 6
FP&A and Controllership Collaboration
Sometimes it seems like the financial planning and analysis team and the accountants work near each other but not with each other. Today, we’re talking about how to foster collaboration between FP&A and accounting.
Episode 5
The AAPI Accounting Story
As we celebrate Asian-American and Pacific Islander (AAPI) heritage month, we speak with Kinman Tong about his journey in accounting.
Episode 4
Life as an Accounting Consultant
There are many pathways for accountants to take over the course of their careers. On this episode we’re talking about why accountants should consider independent consulting.
Episode 3
The Revenue Accountant Journey
In this episode, Natasha Castelli, Founder of Apta Consulting Group, talks about the unexpected journey that led her to become a revenue accountant, and why she finds this work so rewarding.
Episode 2
Transitioning from the Controllership to FP&A
In episode #2, “From Controllership to FP&A”, we sat down again with the CFO of Innova Medical Group, Guzel Lumpkin as she defines the qualities she looks for in the best FP&A candidate.
Episode 1
From the Big 4 to CFO
A casual chat with accountants and their daily lives as members of the Controller’s team. We’ll explore their grind, from debits and credits, month-end close nightmares, audits and all the fun in-between.
About Gappify
Gappify, founded in 2016, is a cloud-based provider of accrual automation solutions for mid-market and enterprise accounting teams. The company is headquartered in New York City, with offices in Berkeley, California, Washington DC, and Manila, Philippines.
Its team consists of accountants and CPA’s from Big Four accounting firms and software innovators. Gappify is also supported by strategic advisors from some of the world’s most recognized technology companies and is affiliated with the top companies & accounting organizations.
