Meet Mike! In this conversation, Zane interviews Mike Sylvester, a seasoned CPA and partner at SPS CPA Group. Mike shares his unconventional journey from being a reactor operator in the Navy to becoming a successful accountant and firm leader. He discusses the importance of community, effective marketing strategies, and the challenges of having difficult conversations with clients. Mike emphasizes the need for accountants to adapt to industry changes, particularly with the rise of AI, and offers valuable advice for aspiring accountants. Takeaways - Mike Sylvester has over 20 years of experience in public accounting. - He transitioned from a military career to accounting later in life. - Building a successful firm requires strong leadership and systems. - Difficult conversations with clients are essential for their success. - Networking and community involvement are crucial for accountants. - Raising prices annually is a key strategy for firm growth. - AI will significantly impact the accounting industry in the coming years. - Effective marketing is about being responsive and providing value. - Accountants should be adaptable to generational shifts in the workforce. Sound Bites "I met my wife in the Navy." "You need to develop contacts." "You have to show up." Chapters 00:00 Introduction to Mike Sylvester and His Journey 04:58 From Military to Accounting: A Unique Path 11:16 Transitioning Careers: The Move to Accounting 14:54 Building a Family Business: Working with a Spouse 20:01 Navigating Tough Conversations with Clients 24:59 Advice for Aspiring Accountants and Firm Owners 29:06 The Value of Honest Conversations in Communities 32:57 Creating a Collaborative Environment 36:36 Marketing Strategies for Accounting Firms 41:28 The Future of Accounting: AI and Industry Changes 44:46 Advice for Newcomers in the Accounting Field Connect with Mike: LinkedIn personal - https://www.linkedin.com/in/michael-sylvester-cpa-98b2035/ Where the magic happens - https://x.com/FortWayneCPA

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