Accounting Apps Podcast

Xerocon 2025 Recap 🚐From Inside the Blue Kombi

A vibrant wrap-up of Xerocon 2025 from a Kombi van, covering AI tools, new Xero features, community energy, and standout apps like SYFT Analytics, Cradle IO & Manage My Renewals.
Summary
On day 2 of Xerocon I jumped into a community group and asked people to join me at the van at 2pm, and 40 minutes later 5 people showed up. We squeezed into the Kombi and debriefed on the two day Xerocon conference. I can not quite believe that I managed to get 6 people into a Kombi van, and recorded what could possibly be the greatest Xerocon podcast recording ever!
 
There have been a lot of post following Xerocon, about the strength of the community, and you can really feel a sense of community in this conversation. Today I’m speaking with 
Alex Falcon Huerta FCCA (Soaring Falcon),
Jolene Elliot of Karlaya Accounting & Business Advisory
Michelle Kvello of Lantern Partners
Emma Baxter of YouTax
Kyelie Baxter of IQ Accountants 
In this episode, recorded on Day 2 of #Xerocon 2025 inside a vintage Kombi van with six passionate accounting professionals, we talk about . . .
AI innovations including OpenAI, JAX, and the future of automation in accounting.
Hot app discoveries like Manage My Renewals, Cradle IO, SYFT Analytics, and Fishbowl Inventory.
Key product announcements from Xero: ATO Portal integration, Tax Manager, and Workpapers for individual tax returns.
Reflections on session highlights: resilience, time management, and generational engagement.
Talks about stage experiences, community strength, and the power of networking.
Trends ahead: more automation, younger entrepreneurial accountants, and the growing importance of soft skills.
Each guest shared a final thought on embracing innovation, avoiding conference fatigue, and staying connected.
🧰 Apps & Tools Mentioned:
SYFT Analytics, Manage My Renewals, Cradle IO, Fishbowl Inventory, FYI, Translucent, XBert, Xero, Dext, ATO Portal, Xero Workpapers, RPA, JAX, RecHound
Contact details:
Accounting Apps newsletter: http://accountingapps.io/ 
Accounting Apps Mastermind: https://www.facebook.com/groups/XeroMasterMind 
LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/HeatherSmithAU/ 
YouTube Channel: https://www.youtube.com/ANISEConsulting 
X: https://twitter.com/HeatherSmithAU

🚐 Diya Jolly on Leadership, Innovation & Harnessing AI for Small Biz Success

Xero’s Chief Product & Tech Officer Diya Jolly shares product highlights from Xerocon, how AI is shaping features, and what drives her mission to empower small businesses globally.
Summary
Today I’m speaking with Diya Jolly, Chief Product & Technology Officer at Xero
In this episode, recorded live at Xerocon Brisbane inside a blue Kombi van we talk about . . .
Reflections on leadership, childhood inspirations & her father’s influenceDiya’s approach to customer-driven product developmentHighlights from recent Xero product announcements:
New homepage & navigation redesign
Enhanced Partner Hub
Intelligent bank reconciliation with human + AI synergy
Actionable insights for accountants & bookkeepers 
The impact of user feedback and communication on product strategy
Contact details:
Diya Jolly: https://www.linkedin.com/in/diyajolly/
Xero: https://www.xero.com/au/
Accounting Apps newsletter: http://accountingapps.io/ 
Accounting Apps Mastermind: https://www.facebook.com/groups/XeroMasterMind 
LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/HeatherSmithAU/ 
YouTube Channel: https://www.youtube.com/ANISEConsulting 
X: https://twitter.com/HeatherSmithAU

💼 Ethics, Apps & Advisory: Tech Talks with Trailblazers

A live panel unpacks how accounting tech reshapes advisory, global work, and lifestyles: covering cloud, AI, ethics, niche healthcare, and why some accountants invest in apps. Guests: Gardner, Falcon Huerta, Chard.
Summary
Host Heather Smith moderates a lively panel on accounting + technology at the Brisbane Chartered Accountants Australia New Zealand offices.
Guests: 
Alex Falcon Huerta FCCA (Soaring Falcon) https://www.linkedin.com/in/alexfalconhuerta/ 
Kelly Chard (GrowthMD) https://www.linkedin.com/in/kellychard/ 
Paul Gardner (fresh accounting) https://www.linkedin.com/in/paul-gardner-3b85322/ 
In this episode, we talk about . . .
Cloud tools lower barriers for boutique firms; data enables deeper advisory.
Lifestyle design: remote teams, digital-nomad workflows, and flexible careers.
Global work: Hong Kong/Singapore complexities—multi-entity, multi-currency, consolidation.
Specialisation: healthcare niche delivers powerful benchmarking and insight.
Founders as investors: why accountants back apps they implement.
AI: more a shift than a threat; ethics and guardrails remain paramount.
Practical stack talk: standardising platforms, comms, and change management.
Apps & Tools Mentioned: Xero, Sage, NetSuite, SAP, Expensify, Dext, Microsoft Teams, Microsoft Copilot, Excel, WhatsApp, Brieff, Otter.ai
Contact details:
Accounting Apps newsletter: http://accountingapps.io/ 
Accounting Apps Mastermind: https://www.facebook.com/groups/XeroMasterMind 
LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/HeatherSmithAU/ 
YouTube Channel: https://www.youtube.com/ANISEConsulting 
X: https://twitter.com/HeatherSmithAU

AI Leadership Advantage for Accountants

In this solo episode Heather Smith explores how accountants can harness AI as a strategic enabler, boosting data-driven decision making, enhancing client value, and leading with ethics, integrity, and curiosity.
Summary
In this solo episode, I talk about . . .
Key Points:
Technology as a strategic enabler, not just an operational tool
AI reduces repetitive work, empowering advisory services
Algorithms + data = core to accountants’ strengths
Data as a strategic asset: dashboards, analytics, forecasting tools
AI skills now a core competency—embrace continuous learning
Importance of curiosity and experimentation
Changing client expectations around speed, transparency, and insights
Data security, ethics, and integrity as professional superpowers
AI governance—opportunity to lead and educate clients
Leadership moment for accountants in shaping AI adoption
 
00:00 – Welcome & Episode Overview Heather introduces the AI in accounting theme.
00:45 – 1 AI as a Strategic Enabler Why technology is more than an operational necessity.
02:10 – 2. Automation Frees Accountants to Be Human From data entry to strategic advisory work.
03:30 – AI in Simple Terms: Algorithms + Data Why this formula matters for accountants and bookkeepers.
04:50 – 3. Data as a Strategic Asset Leveraging dashboards, analytics, and forecasting tools.
06:15 – 4. AI Skills Are the New Core Competencies From spreadsheets to generative AI proficiency.
07:35 – 5. Curiosity & Experimentation Drive Innovation How to create space for trying new tools.
09:10 – 6. Meeting Evolving Client Expectations Speed, transparency, and tech-savvy service delivery.
10:40 – 7. Data Security & AI Disclosure Best practices for safeguarding sensitive financial data.
12:05 – 8. Ethics & Integrity as the Accountant’s Superpower Embedding responsible AI use into daily decisions.
13:25 – 9. AI Governance: A New Service Opportunity Helping clients set rules and policies for AI adoption.
15:00 – 10. Leadership Moment for Accountants Shaping how AI delivers value and manages risk.
17:10 – Final Thoughts & Resources Encouraging continuous learning and professional community engagement.
 
Contact details:
Accounting Apps newsletter: http://accountingapps.io/
Accounting Apps Mastermind: https://www.facebook.com/groups/XeroMasterMind
LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/HeatherSmithAU/
YouTube Channel: https://www.youtube.com/ANISEConsulting
X: https://twitter.com/HeatherSmithAU

Does finance automation really improve accuracy and reduce fraud🔒? | Tyler Caskey

Heather Smith & Tyler Caskey join ApprovalMax to have a conversation exploring how finance automation boosts accuracy, prevents fraud, and streamlines processes.
Today I’m speaking with Tyler Caskey Partner at The Bean Counters
In this episode, we talk about . . .
Key Points:
How automation reduces human error and speeds approvals
Real-world case studies with ApprovalMax & Xero
Common vulnerabilities: hacked emails, invoice scams, credit card fraud
Risk reduction strategies: 2FA, segregation of duties, virtual credit cards
The role of password managers & proactive anti-fraud controls
Fraud detection warning signs & team training
Stats:
$277M lost to payment redirection scams in Australia (2023)
80–90% of finance errors caused by human error
Automation can detect fraud 50% faster & reduce losses by 50%
Event Preview: Brisbane Xerocon tips & networking advice
Apps & Tools Mentioned: ApprovalMax, Xero, Mayday, Power BI, OnePassword, Practice Protect, EFTsure.
00:00 – Welcome & Introductions Hosts set the scene, introduce Tyler Caskey, and outline today’s automation & fraud prevention focus.
02:15 – Why Finance Automation is a "No Brainer" How automation improves efficiency, accuracy, and security for finance teams.
05:04 – Real-World Automation Wins Case study: $50M invoice group transforms processes with ApprovalMax & Xero.
08:42 – Common Fraud Vulnerabilities in Small Business From hacked emails to bank detail changes—how fraudsters infiltrate.
12:15 – Invoice Scams & How to Spot Them Practical warning signs and red flags finance teams should never ignore.
15:50 – Credit Card & Virtual Card Fraud Prevention Reducing risk with approval processes and controlled card usage.
19:32 – Passwords, 2FA & Segregation of Duties The non-negotiable security practices for finance teams.
23:05 – Fraud Cost & Prevention Statistics Eye-opening data on human error, scam losses, and automation benefits.
26:40 – Training Your Team for Fraud Awareness Creating a culture that detects scams before they succeed.
29:55 – ApprovalMax Features That Reduce Risk Notifications, audit trails, and bank account verification tools.
33:12 – Xerocon Brisbane Preview What Heather & Tyler are excited about—plus networking tips for attendees.
37:18 – Final Advice for Accountants & Bookkeepers Leading clients toward best-practice automation and fraud prevention.
 
Contact details:
Accounting Apps newsletter: http://accountingapps.io/
Accounting Apps Mastermind: https://www.facebook.com/groups/XeroMasterMind
LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/HeatherSmithAU/
YouTube Channel: https://www.youtube.com/ANISEConsulting
X: https://twitter.com/HeatherSmithAU

The accountant as the storyteller: Creating ⚡impactful presentations | Karbon

In this solo episode Heather Smith shares her proven process for creating impactful presentations, from topic selection to AI tools, helping accountants communicate with clarity, confidence, and audience engagement.
The accompanying article to this podcast appeared in Karbon Magazine : https://karbonhq.com/resources/creating-impactful-presentations/
In this episode, we talk about . . .
Key Topics:
Choosing a clear, focused topic tied to your strengths.
Event prep checklist (theme, audience, timing, learning outcomes).
Leveraging AI tools like Gamma.ai & ChatGPT for brainstorming and refinement.
Presentation design tips with Canva & accessibility considerations.
Audience engagement strategies (polls, paired discussions, live reflections).
Practising delivery, managing timing, and adjusting to conference themes.
Apps & Tools Mentioned: Canva, Gamma.ai, ChatGPT, Otter.ai, Mentimeter, Slido.
00:00 – Welcome & Episode Introduction Heather introduces the Accounting Apps Podcast and today’s focus on presentation skills.
03:05 – The Accountant as Storyteller Why storytelling matters in accounting presentations.
05:12 – Picking Your Presentation Topic Identifying core strengths and aligning with audience needs.
08:20 – Event Prep Checklist Heather’s go-to template for conference and session details.
12:18 – Knowing Your Audience & Agenda Positioning Adapting delivery based on audience energy levels and schedule timing.
16:05 – Drafting Content & Reusing Resources Repurposing past slides, articles, and podcasts to save time.
19:40 – Designing for Clarity with Canva Practical slide design tips and exploring Gamma.ai for inspiration.
24:10 – Essential Presentation Structure Key slide elements from title page to call-to-action.
27:55 – Engaging Your Audience Using polls, paired discussions, and live reflections to boost interaction.
32:05 – Slide Strategies & Accessibility Heather’s approach to slide density, colour choices, and design resources.
35:40 – Leveraging AI for Content Review Using ChatGPT to refine flow, style, and relevance.
39:05 – Practice, Backup Plans & Conference Day Routine Preparation techniques, tech checks, and handling unexpected issues.
41:25 – Lifelong Learning for Accountants Encouragement to keep developing skills for impactful communication.
 
Contact details:
Accounting Apps newsletter: http://accountingapps.io/
Accounting Apps Mastermind: https://www.facebook.com/groups/XeroMasterMind
LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/HeatherSmithAU/
YouTube Channel: https://www.youtube.com/ANISEConsulting
X: https://twitter.com/HeatherSmithAU

Inside WorkGuru: 7 Years Empowering SMEs with Real-Time Project Insights | Tony Harcourt

Tony Harcourt CEO & Co-Founder of WorkGuru
Tony Harcourt returns to chat with Heather about WorkGuru’s recent product updates, the challenges facing SMEs, and the role of automation and integrations in improving day-to-day operations.
Summary
Today I’m speaking with Tony Harcourt CEO & Co-Founder of WorkGuru
WorkGuru is a Project Management solution tailored for SMEs in manufacturing, construction, engineering, and fabrication.
In this episode, we talk about . . .
 
WorkGuru Highlights:
Celebrating 7 years.
Focus on automating business workflows and enhancing project visibility.
Feature Releases Discussed:
Workflows Engine: Automate project actions (e.g. invoice alerts, follow-ups).
Scheduling Optimization: Drag-and-drop team allocation with load visibility.
Gantt Charts: Visual project timelines with logical dependency control.
Mobile App Overhaul: New UI with mobile-friendly features including receipt upload.
Integrations:
Accounting: Xero, QuickBooks, MYOB
OCR & Approvals: EasyBills (with PO matching)
Payments: Pinch Payments (GuruPay)
Task Management: Asana (two-way sync)
Document Storage: SuiteFiles, Dropbox, Google Drive
Payroll/HR: Tanda integration
E-commerce & CRM: New integrations with Shopify and HubSpot
Tony’s Take on Tech:
Clear distinction between automation (repeatable tasks) and AI (tool for speed & code support).
AI is useful but not foolproof—best as a developer accelerator.
Heather & Tony Discuss:
Why advisors should niche and partner with robust platforms like WorkGuru.
The importance of support and access—WorkGuru runs live drop-in support twice a week.
Upcoming at Xerocon 2025:
Branded swag, travel prize giveaway, live demos at the WorkGuru booth.
Mid-con party on Emporium Hotel Lina rooftop with Brisbane-based apps.
Register here : https://lu.ma/qxj8umqt
 
Contact details:
Tony Harcourt : https://www.linkedin.com/in/tony-harcourt/
W: https://workguru.io/
Accounting Apps newsletter: http://accountingapps.io/
Accounting Apps Mastermind: https://www.facebook.com/groups/XeroMasterMind
LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/HeatherSmithAU/
YouTube Channel: https://www.youtube.com/ANISEConsulting
X: https://twitter.com/HeatherSmithAU

🔄Accounting Tech Round-Up: QTR2 Innovations & Insights

Heather Smith and Tyler Caskey explore major Q2 tech updates, from payroll developments to NetSuite integrations, AI trends, multi-entity reporting, and smarter expense and project tools.
Today I’m speaking with Tyler Caskey, Founder at The Bean Counter.
In this episode, we talk about . . . industry insights and key accounting technology updates from April to June 2025. We highlight the competition in HR and payroll, noting Rippling's market leadership, Employment Hero's implementation improvements, and Tanda’s attractive pricing . We discuss Xero's integration of Syft into its dashboard. Tyler praises the project management solution Work Guru for its native integrations across different systems. We also cover the integration of the ERP solution Oracle NetSuite with Airwallex, Weel and ApprovalMax, and highlight changes in Xero, QuickBooksOnline, and MYOB, including the release of Solo Money by MYOB. We wrapped up with a quick look at recent investments and a preview of upcoming Accounting Technology events.
Key Themes & Takeaways
Payroll & HR Tech
Competition heating up: Rippling, Employment Hero, Elmo, and Tanda making moves.
Pricing pressures and feature sets vary widely—Tanda noted as great value.
Multi-Entity Reporting
Strong contenders: Fathom, Join, DataSights, Calxa, Spotlight Reporting.
Notable updates: Xero integrates Sift, Join introduces Board Packs, Calxa adds advanced tracking category grouping.
Expense Management & Virtual Cards
ApprovalMax, Weel and Airwallex now integrated with NetSuite.
Derive emerges as a serious AP/procurement tool competitor to ProSpend, especially for franchises.
Jobs & Projects
WorkGuru praised for native integrations, suitability for construction and manufacturing.
Gojee, Scoro, and Project Works also discussed. Project Works raised $12M Series A.
AI & ChatGPT Use in Accounting
Clients are using AI for education and pre-queries—accountants need to stay ahead.
Risks around DIY tax advice. AI as a review tool (e.g., Expert, future potential).
CRM Tools
Wave CRM: Excellent for member-based orgs.
Friendly Manager and Hello Club noted in the sports/event space.
Core App Updates
Xero: Practice Manager UI refresh, Tap to Pay on iPhone, invoicing redesign, Carbon integration, U.S. Melio acquisition.
QuickBooks: New 3-year forecasting, workflow approvals, ATO integration enhancements.
MYOB: Launches Solo Money – targeted at freelancers/sole traders.
ERP & Reporting Tools
Hemesphere + Odoo for large-volume users.
NetSuite growing as a high-quality GL platform, even for low-entity clients.
Campfire (AI-first ERP) secures $35M Series A funding.
 Events Mentioned
Heather & Tyler speaking across AU at Dashboard Insights, CloudOffice, CA ANZ & Women in Accounting events.
Upcoming: Xerocon (Tyler speaking), Suite World Vegas, Zoholics, Mayday’s Multi-Entity Webinar Series.
Upcoming events that Tyler or Heather are speaking at:
 
31 Jul - Fireside, Forecasts & Future Tech - Cloudoffis, Melbourne
1 Aug - FY25 Accounting Benchmarking Roadshow - Dashboard Insights, Brisbane
14-26 Aug Scaling with Xero
19 Aug Your Brain is Full: Build a Second Brain to Make Room for What Matters - SWAN Sydney Women in Accounting Network
25-26 Aug 2025 Zoholics - Sydney
1 Sep The Intersection of Accounting and Technology - CAANZ, Brisbane
3-4 Sep Xerocon - Brisbane
6-9 Oct SuiteWorld - Las Vegas
22-23 Oct Accounting & Business Show Asia - Singapore
Contact details:
Tyler Caskey : https://www.linkedin.com/in/tylercaskey/
The Bean Counters https://www.thebeancounters.com.au/
Accounting Apps newsletter: http://accountingapps.io/
Accounting Apps Mastermind: https://www.facebook.com/groups/XeroMasterMind
LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/HeatherSmithAU/
YouTube Channel: https://www.youtube.com/ANISEConsulting
X: https://twitter.com/HeatherSmithAU

Your clients are using ChatGPT: How are you going to react when your clients use ChatGPT?

Your clients are using ChatGPT.
Your clients are going to try to do their accounts and their tax using ChatGPT.
Your clients are going to ask you questions generated from ChatGPT.
Your clients are going to ask you why you have not deducted THIS because ChatGPT suggested it.
Your clients are going to come to you with “the work finished by ChatGPT” and they are going to ask you to give it a quick look over and remind you that you should not charge them as much because ChatGPT has done the bulk of the work.
AND how are you going to react to this???
Firstly, be AWARE that it’s happening.
It’s good that your clients are taking an interest, and doing some of their own research.
REMIND clients that ChatGPT can make mistakes, and that important information needs to be checked. “That’s a helpful starting point, but it’s not always right, especially for tax.”
ChatGPT can help clients understand terminology, accounting concepts, simplify language, and help prep them for a meeting.
ChatGPT is not a professional accountant or bookkeeper. It may not know the latest tax legislation, may draw on international information, or suggest non-compliant responses.
ChatGPT rarely understands the nuances of a client situation, and has a tendency to oversimplify things, and be overconfident in its statements, as if they are facts.
I recall when I was pregnant, turning up to the Doctor's office with a large hardcover copy of Dr Miriam Stoppard’s Pregnancy Book, filled with post-it notes of my hand written questions. If the Doctor had been reluctant to answer my questions, then I probably would have found a new Doctor.
When your client comes to you with ChatGPT responses, how are you going to respond?
You could be prepared to suggest that ChatGPT can be a helpful tool, but it's not a substitute for the knowledge and judgment of a qualified bookkeeper or accountant.
Highlight where ChatGPT can be used, and where it’s not so good. Remind them that it needs to be triple fact checked! You could highlight that in some areas it could save them money, but in other areas such as reviewing ChatGPT responses may lead to inefficiencies and actually cost them more money.
Contact details:
Accounting Apps newsletter: http://accountingapps.io/
Accounting Apps Mastermind: https://www.facebook.com/groups/XeroMasterMind
LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/HeatherSmithAU/
YouTube Channel: https://www.youtube.com/ANISEConsulting
X: https://twitter.com/HeatherSmithAU

🚀 From EdTech to FinTech: Miquel Palet’s Journey with Get Invoice

Today I’m speaking with Miquel Palet, Founder of GetInvoice Miquel Palet is a Barcelona-based entrepreneur and product leader, known for founding Ucademy, an edtech platform, and GetInvoice, a tool for automating invoice retrieval from emails and other sources. With a background in engineering from Universitat Politècnica de Catalunya, Miquel combines technical expertise with a passion for simplifying business processes. His ventures reflect a commitment to innovation and user-centric solutions. GetInvoice is an AI-driven invoice automation software that automatically retrieves and processes invoices and receipts from emails and web portals, including Amazon and Google Ads. We extract all invoice data and integrate with accounting tools like QuickBooks, Xero or Business Central, and other tools like Google Drive or Google Sheet, to automatically forward all processed invoices. GetInvoice is already used by more than +1,000 freelancers, startups, and small businesses around the world that are looking to automate their pre-accounting work and save +10 hours every week. In this episode, we talk about . . . · Guest: Miquel Palet, founder of Get Invoice and co-founder of Ucademy · Background: Engineering and entrepreneurship from Barcelona · Get Invoice: AI-driven software automating invoice retrieval from emails and portals like Amazon & Google Integrations: Works with Xero, QuickBooks, Business Central, Google Drive & Sheets · Origin Story: Born out of a pain point at Ucademy while scaling fast · Market Focus: Small businesses (10–200 people) in Europe and the US · Milestone: Bootstrapped growth reaching and surpassing $10K ARR within 6 months · Security: Uses secure Google/Outlook APIs with strict access limitations · Growth Strategy: Lean, product-focused, and quick iteration · Fun Fact: Inspired by Spotify Wrapped to create an email analytics campaign · Language: Currently English-only despite Spanish roots · Reading: Balances business books with classical literature like The Iliad   Contact details:   Get Invoice https://www.get-invoice.com  Miquel Palet https://linkedin.com/in/miquelpalet  Miquel Pale https://x.com/paletmiki  Accounting Apps newsletter: http://HeatherSmithAU.COM Accounting Apps Mastermind: https://www.facebook.com/groups/XeroMasterMind  LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/HeatherSmithAU/  YouTube Channel: https://www.youtube.com/ANISEConsulting  X: https://twitter.com/HeatherSmithAU