Before we start talking about podcasts for accountants, I want to make a confession: I’m a true crime podcast junkie. I admit it. And I’m also OK with that. So, what does this have to do with podcasts for accountants? Well, not much really. It’s a great question, though…so I hope you’ll bear with me.
I guess you could say I like listening to podcasts…and not just true crime. I enjoy a wide variety of genres, and I’m always looking to learn—or, should I say, listening to learn. My podcast playlist includes about 70 different shows—some I follow more faithfully than others. In fact, a quick scan of the podcasts I subscribe to reveals this:
- 22 are true crime podcasts (I told you…).
- 10 are business and leadership-focused.
- 10 are about writing and content.
- Eight are health-related (mental, physical, spiritual).
- Six are about coaching (I coach volleyball in my free time).
- Several are accounting firm-related.
- And a handful of others are just plain fun (because everyone needs that, right?).
Maybe you’re an avid podcast listener already—and you have your own list of favorites. But for those of you who aren’t, and maybe even those of you who are looking for some new content specific to your accounting career, this blog post is for you.
The case for podcasts: Why they’re great
Listening to podcasts suits me. They allow me to take in information in bite-sized, easily digestible segments of time that fit nicely into my schedule. And they’re convenient, allowing me to listen, learn and be entertained on the go.
From business and finance to technology, health, education, news, true crime, comedy, music and more, you’ll find a wide range of topics to fit any interest or mood. (Just look at my list.) And if you don’t have time to listen to a full episode at one time—or decide you’re just not feeling a certain genre on a given day—you can pick right back up where you left off…whenever you’re ready to listen again.
On the clock: How to make time in your day for podcasts
I’m guessing your schedule is as busy as mine. Between work, family and other interests and commitments, it can be hard to find time to invest in ourselves. But our everyday routines can offer hidden opportunities. If you’re taking time for exercise (and I hope you are), whether going to the gym or out for a walk, this is a perfect opportunity to listen to a podcast. Listening to my library of crime podcasts is one of my favorite things to do while walking around the lake and campgrounds by my house. (And no, the irony of this is not lost on me. I have my handy Go Guarded Hand-Held for protection…and I only use one of my AirPods while walking. Safety first!)
What are other time gaps you can fill with podcasts? During a commute, when traveling, while driving, as you get ready…or when you have downtime. The idea here is that you can listen on the go when it works for you.
Bonus: Some accountant-specific podcasts even offer a way to earn CPE credit by listening with the Earmark app. And we all have time for that, right?
Variety matters: What to look for and how to choose
The number and variety of podcasts out there should cover just about any interest you might have. Whether you’re looking for technology updates, business or career development, industry trends, interviews with thought leaders or advice for running an accounting firm, well…guess what? There’s a podcast for that.
We know the vast number of podcasts can be overwhelming…and you may not know where to start. So, as you explore podcasts for accounting professionals, here are some things you’ll want to consider:
- Style and format: Is the show engaging and easy to follow?
- Interest: Does it align with your interests and/or career goals?
- Host(s): Do you connect with the personality and style of the host(s)?
- Length and frequency: How long are the episodes, how often do they release new content and do you have time to commit to the show?
- Production quality: Is the show’s audio good quality?
- Reviews and ratings: Does the show have good ratings and reviews?
- Episode descriptions: Do they provide good episode summaries?
- Consistency: Is the show current, and do they release episodes regularly?
The list: Check out these top podcasts for accountants
While this is nowhere near a comprehensive list, here’s a collection of shows to consider adding to your accounting professional podcast playlist (say that three times fast).
The Modern Firm® podcast with Darren Root and John Mitchell
We might be biased, but this really is one of our favorites. If you’re an accounting firm owner looking for a fresh perspective on running a modern firm, this podcast is for you. With strategies for tackling outdated business models, non-ideal clients and staffing shortages to implementing the right tech stack, you’ll get actionable steps to help you build the firm of your dreams.
Jason Daily with Jason Staats
Listen in on daily-ish conversations from a former accounting firm owner as he explores the world of public accounting, from how to run a better firm, implementing AI, finding positivity, improving workflow and culture, and surviving in the profession without burning out.
Accounting Best Practices with Steve Bragg
When you’re looking for something short and sweet, tune in to this podcast for bite-sized, jam-packed episodes that cover a variety of business topics, from accounting technology to best practices, controls, financing, payroll, closing the books and more.
Accounting Answers with Rob Brown
Stay informed about the accounting profession with this daily show that covers everything from industry trends to recruitment, career development and talent management. Through short, impactful segments, Rob features a wide range of experts and influencers, asking them the critical questions that are helping shape the future of the accounting profession.
The Accounting Podcast with Blake Oliver and David Leary
Formerly the Cloud Accounting Podcast, this accounting, bookkeeping and tax podcast should be on your list. This informative and entertaining weekly show offers a roundup of accounting news, analysis and interviews to keep you up to date on the pulse of the profession. Plus, you can earn NASBA-approved CPE credits for listening with the Earmark app.
Apple Podcast | Spotify | Earmark
Oh My Fraud with Greg Kyte and Caleb Newquist
If you’re a true crime fan like I am, but you prefer hearing about white-collar cases over things like murder, this show will be right up your accounting alley. Join the hosts—a CPA/comedian and a blogger/former CPA—as they unpack and explore the circumstances and psychology behind their favorite fraud cases, entertaining you every step of the way. You might even learn something about what to look out for to keep your clients, your firm and yourself safe. Listen through the Earmark app to earn CPE credits in the process.
Apple Podcast | Spotify | Earmark
Accounting Apps Podcast with Heather Smith
Formerly known as Cloud Stories, this podcast takes a deep dive into the world of accounting apps and the stories behind how firm and business owners are using technology to be more effective and efficient. With a flair for storytelling and a lineup of guests that includes entrepreneurs, business consultants, accountants, bookkeepers, small business owners, cloud providers and more, Heather keeps listeners engaged, entertained and informed. Look for this one on the Earmark CPE list, too.
Apple Podcast | Spotify | Earmark
Count Me In® with Adam Larson
Gain valuable insight into the future of accounting and finance with this podcast from the IMA® (Institute of Management Accountants). Host Adam Larson brings you the latest perspectives and learnings on all things affecting the accounting and finance world, as told by the experts working in the field and the thought leaders shaping the profession.
Accounting High with Scott Scarano
Consider class in session (but the fun kind): Accounting High is on a mission to make accounting relatable. With a focus on practice management and innovation, this podcast offers some fun and colorful conversations from a generation of accounting professionals who are willing to question and explore the state of the profession.
Thrivecast: A Podcast for Accountants with Jason Blumer
If you’re looking for a podcast about accounting leadership and growth, you’ll want to jump right into the ocean of info waiting for you in Thrivecast. With monthly episodes, host Jason Blumer, CPA, interviews the best and brightest in the accounting profession, bringing you engaging accounting entrepreneurial lessons and principles designed to help you grow just by listening.
The Soul of Enterprise with Ron Baker and Ed Kless
This podcast is designed to champion the insight that wealth is created by intellectual capital, a product of the inexhaustible human spirit. Ron and Ed discuss how wealth is, above all, an accumulation of possibilities that lie hidden in the womb of the future, waiting to be discovered by human imagination, ingenuity and creativity, and manifested in free enterprises dedicated to serving others. Oh, and you can also earn CPE credits by listening through the Earmark app.
Apple Podcast | Spotify | Earmark
The Unique CPA
Join host Randy Crabtree, CPA, as he takes listeners on a journey beyond compliance to explore new pathways of providing value to clients. You’ll hear from noteworthy leaders in the profession as they tell their stories and offer advice from the forefront of public accounting. From diversifying revenue streams to innovative management styles, this podcast covers all the topics you want to hear about. You can earn CPE credits when you listen to this one on the Earmark app, too.
Apple Podcast | Spotify | Earmark
The Spark AI Show with TJ Lewis
Click that follow button if you’re ready to explore the transformative power of AI in the world of accounting. This isn’t just another AI show; it’s a dedicated resource for accountants everywhere to discover how AI can be leveraged across the profession. From insight on enhancing productivity to deepening client relationships, host TJ Lewis and featured guests will guide you through the impacts and opportunities of AI in accounting.
AI: Accounting Intelligence with Isaac Heller
New podcast alert!! This one’s a newcomer, with only two episodes available at the time this article was published. But with an inaugural episode featuring The Radical CPA Jody Padar, we know it’s headed in the right direction. Host Isaac Heller meets with leaders in the accounting space to discuss how technology has evolved and how AI and automation are transforming the profession. You’ll learn how to embrace innovation to improve your life and career with forward-thinking perspectives on where the accounting profession is headed.
Listen up: Learning comes from listening
Lyndon B. Johnson said, “If you’re not listening, you’re not learning.” So, let’s turn on those listening ears, tune in to some of these popular podcasts for accountants, and start learning from some of the bravest and brightest as you grow your knowledge on the go.
And now that this article’s finished, I’m going for a walk. I have a new podcast to listen to.
If you’re looking for other podcast ideas, check out our small business podcasts blog for more recommendations.
