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I had the best conversation with Kelly Sinclair about something that's been on my mind (and probably yours too): how to actually use AI without losing the human connection that makes your business YOU. We dive deep into why social media might not be the lead generator you think it is, how to build visibility strategies that don't rely on the algorithm, and how AI can actually help you show up MORE human, not less.

In this episode you’ll hear:

• Why taking a break from social media might be the best business decision you make
• How to flip your AI mindset from "polish my work" to "support me first"
• The three ways to monetize AI in your business

Resources mentioned in this episode:

• 90 Day Visibility Sprint Starter Kit https://kellysinclair.thrivecart.com/the-90-day-visibility-sprint-podcast/?coupon=SERENAPOD
• Valerie
• Brand Calibrator
• Notebook LM
• ChatGPT
• MindPal
• ManyChat
• Zapier
• QuickBooks Online

Meet Kelly

Kelly Sinclair is a visibility strategist, AI-powered marketing expert, and host of Entrepreneur School. An accidental tech nerd and professional mom taxi, she helps entrepreneurs ditch random acts of marketing, build visibility habits that actually work, and grow through intentional visibility—not by selling their soul to social media.

Connect with Kelly

Podcast: https://entrepreneurschool.ca/podcast/ Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/ksco_kelly/

Thanks for listening. If this episode inspired you in some way, take a screenshot of you listening on your device and post it to your Instagram stories and tag me @ambitiousbookkeeper

For more information about the Ambitious Bookkeeper Podcast or interest in our programs or mentoring visit our resources below:

• Visit our website: https://www.ambitiousbookkeeper.com
• Follow the Blog: https://www.ambitiousbookkeeper.com/blog
• Connect on Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/ambitiousbookkeeper
• Connect on Threads: https://www.threads.net/@ambitiousbookkeeper
• Connect on Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/serenashoupcpa

Thank you for your support of our show. If you haven’t left a review yet it’s super simple. Please go to ambitiousbookkeeper.com/podcast and leave your review.

Podcast Publishing Tools we use:

• Editing → Sabr Media LLC: https://www.iangilliam.com/sabr-media-llc
• Descript: https://get.descript.com/u7lubkx09073 (affiliate link)
• Buzzsprout: https://www.buzzsprout.com/?referrer_id=1753696 (affiliate link)

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In this episode, I'm chatting with my friend Kelsey Silver about something so many of you have been asking about - how the heck are we supposed to use AI without compromising our clients' security? Kelsey has a super unique background and she breaks down exactly what we need to look for when evaluating AI tools for our firms. Plus, she shares about her AI app Foresight HQ that helps you identify your hottest leads in your Instagram DMs - no more chasing people who just wanted the freebie!

In this episode you’ll hear:

• How to evaluate AI tools for security
• The difference between machine learning and generative AI
• How Kelsey balances building an app, doing VIP days, working a corporate job, AND being a mom to a 4.5-year-old

Resources mentioned in this episode:

• The Metrics 7-Figure Business Owners Can't Live Without: https://kelseysilver.com/metrics
• 5 DM Signals $FREE: https://foresighthq.app/5signals
• Notion
• ThriveCart, High Level, and SamCart
• ManyChat

Meet Kelsey

Kelsey Silver is a data and AI strategist and the founder of ForesightHQ, an AI-powered DM lead tracker designed for business owners who want to follow up in their DMs without feeling like a sales robot. With a background in psychology, 10+ years in corporate analytics, and a deep love for systems that actually fit your life, Kelsey helps entrepreneurs find the hidden gold in their data so they can sell smarter and with more integrity. When she’s not decoding buyer signals or mapping launch strategies, you can find her at a Ren Faire with her daughter or decompression from reading spreadsheets all day with a bag of Oreos and an oat milk chai latte.

Connect with Kelsey

Instagram: @kelseyesilver

Website: https://kelseysilver.com/

App: https://foresighthq.app

Thanks for listening. If this episode inspired you in some way, take a screenshot of you listening on your device and post it to your Instagram stories and tag me @ambitiousbookkeeper

For more information about the Ambitious Bookkeeper Podcast or interest in our programs or mentoring visit our resources below:

• Visit our website: https://www.ambitiousbookkeeper.com
• Follow the Blog: https://www.ambitiousbookkeeper.com/blog
• Connect on Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/ambitiousbookkeeper
• Connect on Threads: https://www.threads.net/@ambitiousbookkeeper
• Connect on Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/serenashoupcpa

Thank you for your support of our show. If you haven’t left a review yet it’s super simple. Please go to ambitiousbookkeeper.com/podcast and leave your review.

Podcast Publishing Tools we use:

• Editing → Sabr Media LLC: https://www.iangilliam.com/sabr-media-llc
• Descript: https://get.descript.com/u7lubkx09073 (affiliate link)
• Buzzsprout: https://www.buzzsprout.com/?referrer_id=1753696 (affiliate link)

Get access to the Dubsado Decoded Private Podcast Series here>>

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This episode is best watched on YouTube >

In this episode, I'm walking you through one of my absolute favorite tools for keeping your business audit-proof: Hubdoc. I'll show you exactly how we use it at Of Course Financial to help our clients manage their supporting business documents digitally, save hundreds of hours every year, and stay compliant with IRS requirements. Plus, I've got some exciting announcements about upcoming Xero tutorials, the Bookkeeping Biz Workshops re-airing, and our Black Friday sale!

In this episode you’ll hear:

• How Hubdoc automatically organizes receipts, invoices, and statements by vendor
• Step-by-step process for uploading, reviewing, and categorizing documents in Hubdoc before pushing them to Xero or QuickBooks
• Pro tips on avoiding duplicate entries and keeping your books clean while building an audit-proof paper trail

Resources mentioned in this episode:

• https://www.irs.gov/businesses/small-businesses-self-employed/what-kind-of-records-should-i-keep

For experienced bookkeepers & accountants:

Learn how to start your bookkeeping business in The Bookkeeping Business Accelerator® >>

Grab my FREE Start your Bookkeeping Biz Checklist >>

Grab my FREE New Client Onboarding Templates >>

For new bookkeepers:

Learn the fundamental accounting skills in Katie Ferro's Become a Bookkeeper** >>

For creators:

Become a client at my firm, Of Course Financial >>

For more information about the Ambitious Bookkeeper Podcast or interest in our programs or mentoring visit our resources below:

• Visit my website: ambitiousbookkeeper.com
• Subscribe to my Newsletter ambitiousbookkeeper.com/blog
• Connect on Instagram: instagram.com/ambitiousbookkeeper
• Connect on Threads: threads.net/@ambitiousbookkeeper

Podcast Publishing Tools we use:

• Podcast Editing: Sabr Media LLC
• Descript**
• Buzzsprout**

AFFILIATE DISCLAIMER

We participate in affiliate marketing programs, which means we may earn a commission from purchases made through the links above. However, our recommendations are based on our own research and expertise, and your trust is our priority.

Get access to the Dubsado Decoded Private Podcast Series here>>

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Hey guys! This month's live Q&A was packed with real talk about the nitty-gritty of running a bookkeeping business. We covered everything from pricing cleanups (spoiler: diagnostics are your best friend) to getting cyber insurance (yes, it's non-negotiable), and I even got vulnerable about my experience juggling babies and business. If you've ever wondered how to market to trades, what reports clients actually need, or how to take maternity leave as a business owner, this episode is for you!

In this episode you’ll hear:

• How to price cleanups without Getting Burned
• Marketing Strategies that Actually Work for Your Niche
• Cyber Insurance
• Maternity Leave and Business

Resources mentioned in this episode:

• Jock Wols - featured on Ambitious Bookkeeper Podcast for cyber insurance discussion: https://youtu.be/QmXfN_PaKWE
• Karrisa Martino - Health Insurance Specialist: ambitiousbookkeeper.com/blog/121
• Elevate: https://www.ambitiousbookkeeper.com/elevate
• Confident Compliance Bundle: https://www.ambitiousbookkeeper.com/offers/tgPgMBJ7
• Mini Course Bundle: https://www.ambitiousbookkeeper.com/offers/vYYfsxH9
• Akadian: https://fastandeasyqbo.samcart.com/referral/ihiA1kYR/8Duca0gOuAg8wpjF
• Email List - Sign up at: https://www.ambitiousbookkeeper.com/subscribe
• Keeper: https://keeper.app/?via=serena
• Canva: https://www.canva.com/join/relish-scale-floristic
• Upcounsel: https://www.upcounsel.com/rf/8dCYxoOU
• Housecall Pro: https://link.hscll.com/3i3yr
• Lady Pros Facebook Group
• Alignable

Thanks for listening. If this episode inspired you in some way, take a screenshot of you listening on your device and post it to your Instagram stories and tag me @ambitiousbookkeeper

For more information about the Ambitious Bookkeeper Podcast or interest in our programs or mentoring visit our resources below:

• Visit our website: https://www.ambitiousbookkeeper.com
• Follow the Blog: https://www.ambitiousbookkeeper.com/blog
• Connect on Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/ambitiousbookkeeper
• Connect on Threads: https://www.threads.net/@ambitiousbookkeeper
• Connect on Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/serenashoupcpa

Thank you for your support of our show. If you haven’t left a review yet it’s super simple. Please go to ambitiousbookkeeper.com/podcast and leave your review.

Podcast Publishing Tools we use:

• Editing → Sabr Media LLC: https://www.iangilliam.com/sabr-media-llc
• Descript: https://get.descrip

Get access to the Dubsado Decoded Private Podcast Series here>>

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some links are affiliate links

Want to see my weekly timesheets? Follow me on Threads: https://www.threads.net/@ambitiousbookkeeper

No one talks enough about the amount of time that goes into an online course business. So I’m talking about it today.

In this episode you’ll hear:

• My profit margins for both my firm & my online course business
• the time I spend during launches & fulfillment
• how much time I spent in August 2025 on both businesses

Resources mentioned in this episode:

• Clockify → timetracking

For experienced bookkeepers & accountants:

Learn how to start your bookkeeping business in The Bookkeeping Business Accelerator® >>

Grab my FREE Start your Bookkeeping Biz Checklist >>

Grab my FREE New Client Onboarding Templates >>

For new bookkeepers:

Learn the fundamental accounting skills in Katie Ferro's Become a Bookkeeper** >>

For creators:

Become a client at my firm, Of Course Financial >>

For more information about the Ambitious Bookkeeper Podcast or interest in our programs or mentoring visit our resources below:

• Visit my website: ambitiousbookkeeper.com
• Subscribe to my Newsletter ambitiousbookkeeper.com/blog
• Connect on Instagram: instagram.com/ambitiousbookkeeper
• Connect on Threads: threads.net/@ambitiousbookkeeper

Podcast Publishing Tools we use:

• Podcast Editing: Sabr Media LLC
• Descript**
• Buzzsprout**

AFFILIATE DISCLAIMER

We participate in affiliate marketing programs, which means we may earn a commission from purchases made through the links above. However, our recommendations are based on our own research and expertise, and your trust is our priority.

Get access to the Dubsado Decoded Private Podcast Series here>>

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Cyber scams targeting bookkeepers are getting more sophisticated, and I'm sitting down with insurance expert Jock Wols to talk about what's happening in our industry right now. I even share my own recent experience being targeted through the Gusto partner directory—twice in one day! If you think it won't happen to you, think again. This conversation is packed with real stories, practical tips, and the insurance knowledge you need to protect your business in 2025.

In this episode you’ll hear:

• The most common scams hitting bookkeepers right now, including phishing attacks through trusted directories like Gusto and QuickBooks
• My personal story of almost falling victim to a payroll scam (and how one of those fake "clients" actually got to another bookkeeper)
• Why picking up the phone is your best defense against wire transfer fraud
• What cyber insurance actually covers (spoiler: not all policies are created equal) and the gaps you need to know about

Resources mentioned in this episode:

• Episode with Jock on Insurance Basics
• Behind the Scenes Newsletter (Past Volumes) >

watch the video version on YouTube >>

Meet Jock Wols

Jock is the Founder and CEO of RiskDesk, an insurance broker and technology company based out of Lexington, Kentucky. In partnership with Nationwide, he established the PT Pro platform (https://www.ptprocover.com) to serve small business’ insurance needs. He has almost 20 years of experience to help professionals manage their risk by delivering market-leading E&O / Professional Liability and Cyber Liability insurance solutions. Before he established RiskDesk in 2017, Jock managed the professional liability portfolio at XL Catlin and was based in London, New York and Lexington. He graduated from Washington & Lee University with a BSc in 2004 and obtained his MBA from New York University in 2013.

Connect with Jock

Reach out directly to Jock at jock.wols@myriskdesk.com or (859) 327-5594.

Thanks for listening. If this episode inspired you in some way, take a screenshot of you listening on your device and post it to your Instagram stories and tag me @ambitiousbookkeeper

For more information about the Ambitious Bookkeeper Podcast or interest in our programs or mentoring visit our resources below:

• Visit our website: https://www.ambitiousbookkeeper.com
• Follow the Blog: https://www.ambitiousbookkeeper.com/blog
• Connect on Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/ambitiousbookkeeper
• Connect on Threads: https://www.threads.net/@ambitiousbookkeeper
• Connect on Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/serenashoupcpa

Thank you for your support of our show. If you haven’t left a review yet it’s super simple. Please go to ambitiousbookkeeper.com/podcast and leave your review.

Podcast Publishing Tools we use:

• Editing → Sabr Media LLC: https://www.iangilliam.com/sabr-media-llc
• Descript: https:/

Get access to the Dubsado Decoded Private Podcast Series here>>

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In this episode, I sat down with Margie Remmers-Davis, founder and CEO of Akadian Accounting Education, to talk about what it really takes to learn QuickBooks Online. If you've ever felt like the ProAdvisor certification didn't actually prepare you to do bookkeeping work, this conversation is for you. Margie shares her incredible journey from stay-at-home mom to bookkeeping educator, and we dive deep into how she's revolutionizing the way people learn QBO and bookkeeping.

In this episode you’ll hear:

• How Margie went from a devastating divorce to building a thriving education company that's changing how bookkeepers learn
• The truth about the QBO ProAdvisor certification
• How AI is going to change bookkeeping jobs and what you need to know right now to protect your career and stay relevant

Resources mentioned in this episode:

• Acadian Accounting Education: https://www.akadian.com
• "Everything Doc" Guide :https://www.akadian.com/everything
• QBO Gym Locker Room: https://www.akadian.com/lockerroom
• Books Match: https://www.booksmatch.us

Meet Margie

Pressure is the only way to form diamonds. Margie Remmers-Davis, known as the Aha Queen of Accounting Education, is transforming what many consider a dry, boring subject into something practical, hands-on, engaging, and fun! After an unexpected divorce forced her to start over, she uncovered major gaps in accounting education while rebuilding her career through bookkeeping. Drawing on her background in software training, she founded Akadian Accounting Education, which has since empowered over 20,000 bookkeepers with the confidence, clarity, and skills to thrive. In recognition of its rapid growth and impact, Akadian was named to the prestigious Inc. 5000 list of America’s fastest-growing companies.

Connect with Margie

👥 Linkedin: https://www.linkedin.com/in/margie-remmers/

📺 YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@akadianeducation

Thanks for listening. If this episode inspired you in some way, take a screenshot of you listening on your device and post it to your Instagram stories and tag me @ambitiousbookkeeper

For more information about the Ambitious Bookkeeper Podcast or interest in our programs or mentoring visit our resources below:

• Visit our website: https://www.ambitiousbookkeeper.com
• Follow the Blog: https://www.ambitiousbookkeeper.com/blog
• Connect on Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/ambitiousbookkeeper
• Connect on Threads: https://www.threads.net/@ambitiousbookkeeper
• Connect on Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/serenashoupcpa

Thank you for your support of our show. If you haven’t left a review yet it’s super simple. Please go to ambitiousbookkeeper.com/podcast and leave your review.

Podcast Publishing Tools we use:

• Editing → Sabr Media LLC: https://www.iangilliam.com/sabr-media-llc
• Descript:

Get access to the Dubsado Decoded Private Podcast Series here>>

Send us a text

Hey there! In this episode, I'm breaking down exactly what you actually need to start your bookkeeping business - no fluff, just the tactical stuff that matters. As someone who accidentally started my bookkeeping business as a side hustle to motherhood and now mentors other bookkeepers, I'm sharing the five non-negotiables that will set you up for success from day one.

In this episode you’ll hear:

• The complete education and experience foundation you need
• All the paperwork and compliance stuff nobody talks about
• How to actually get paid
• The exact documents you need to ask every client for during onboarding
• My honest take on pricing

Resources mentioned in this episode:

• Become a Bookkeeper
• Akadian Accounting Education
• Relay Bank
• Xero
• Pricing for Profit
• All Minicourses → Store

For experienced bookkeepers & accountants:

Learn how to start your bookkeeping business in The Bookkeeping Business Accelerator® >>

Grab my FREE Start your Bookkeeping Biz Checklist >>

Grab my FREE New Client Onboarding Templates >>

For new bookkeepers:

Learn the fundamental accounting skills in Katie Ferro's Become a Bookkeeper >>

For online course creators:

Become a client at my firm, Of Course Financial >>

For more information about the Ambitious Bookkeeper Podcast or interest in our programs or mentoring visit our resources below:

• Visit our website: ambitiousbookkeeper.com
• Follow the Blog: ambitiousbookkeeper.com/blog
• Connect on Instagram: instagram.com/ambitiousbookkeeper
• Connect on Threads: threads.net/@ambitiousbookkeeper
• Connect on Facebook: Facebook.com/serenashoupcpa

Podcast Publishing Tools we use:

• Podcast Editing: Sabr Media LLC
• Descript (affiliate link)
• Buzzsprout (affiliate link)

AFFILIATE DISCLAIMER

We participate in affiliate marketing programs, which means we may earn a commission from purchases made through the links above. However, our recommendations are based on our own research and expertise, and your trust is our priority.

Get access to the Dubsado Decoded Private Podcast Series here>>