Accounting Apps Podcast

From Friction to Flow: Innovate Daily ⚙️ | #TOACon2025

Join Heather Smith as she explores highlights from TOACon 2025: building resilient teams, leadership mindset shifts, and inspiring stories from accountants shaping the future through global connections.
Summary
In the first of three instalments Heather Smith shares highlights from TOACon2025: focusing on mindset, culture, offshoring, innovation, and resilience in the accounting profession. Through interviews and speaker takeaways, you'll hear how accounting leaders are embracing small actions for big impact.
Insights from Dr. Shadé Zahrai on mindset, adversity, and recognising your own value.
Interview with Mariel (Accounting for Jewellers): from jeweller to niche accountant, offshoring success story.
Innovation tips from James O’Loghlin: tackle friction, protect thinking time, challenge assumptions.
Interview with Alan Lonie (AO Accounting): navigating complex Thai regulations, digital adoption challenges.
Human performance advice from Olly Bridge: fight burnout, habit stack, and walk through problems.
Interview with Mark Said (MKS Group): expanding through offshoring, shifting to CFO coaching, talent shortages.
Interview with Mareta Akari (TOA Global): TOA’s cultural values, post-conference celebrations, and resilience during natural disasters.
Heather Smith attended the TOACon 2025 conference as hosted media.
If you want to find out more about TOAGlobal please visit their website :toaglobal.com
If you want further information about anything covered in this podcast, please refer to the show notes: https://www.heathersmithsmallbusiness.com/blog/
 
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 Workpapers to AI: What 2025 Delivered 📊

In this special year-end wrap-up, we explore the major accounting tech releases of 2025. From new AI capabilities to feature-rich workpapers and smarter reporting tools, discover the updates that could transform your current stack.
 
The accompanying article to this podcast can be found on Accountants Daily.
 
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

How to Make the Most of In-Person Networking🧩

Heather shares why real-world networking still matters for accountants & bookkeepers, offering practical tips to build genuine, long-term professional relationships without feeling salesy or awkward.
In this episode, Heather Smith explores the timeless power of in-person networking for accounting & bookkeeping professionals. Based on her article for Acuity Magazine, she shares stories, strategies, and tech tips for nurturing relationships authentically.
Article : https://www.acuitymag.com/business/how-to-make-the-most-of-in-person-networking/
Why networking isn't about selling, it's about trust and relationships.
Tips for event preparation, including reviewing attendees and sending pre-event LinkedIn messages.
Digital vs paper business cards: the role of QR codes, NFC cards, and LinkedIn connections.
Best conversation starters (including complimenting shoes).
The importance of post-event follow-up, such as voice memos and task lists.
Why introverts might actually be excellent networkers.
How to stay top of mind with minimal LinkedIn activity (just 12 posts a year!).
Real examples of relationships built over 15+ years that still add value today.
Encouragement for all generations—young professionals and seasoned leaders alike—to show up and contribute.
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

Reflections from 2025 & Forecasts for 2026 🤖 | Cloudoffis

A lively panel reflects on 2025's tech-driven accounting trends, AI, automation, clean data, and what’s next for 2026. Ethics, awards, remote work, and receipts that must die!
Summary
In this panel discussion recorded at the Cloudoffis end-of-year event in Sydney, Heather Smith is joined by John Munden (Cloudoffis), Tyler Caskey (The Bean Counters), and Natalia Clark (Easy Super) to reflect on 2025 and forecast on the future in 2026 and beyond in the accounting and auditing industry.
In this episode, we talk about . . .
Key 2025 trends: AI integration, automation pain points, rapid tech change.
The obsession with building AI agents into workflows.
Insights on award-winning success and staying unique.
The shift to remote-first work and global team building.
Strategic investments in talent vs. tech at Cloudoffis.
The call to kill receipts, wet signatures, and corporate cheques.
Bold forecasts for AI replacing admin roles and fast decision-making gaps.
Final takeaway: ethics, professionalism, and agility are your superpowers.
Contact details:
 
Sponsor Offers:  Here
Cloudoffis : https://cloudoffis.com.au/ 
Natalia Clark : https://www.linkedin.com/in/nataliaclack-easysuper/ 
Tyler Caskey : https://www.linkedin.com/in/tylercaskey/ 
John Munden : https://www.linkedin.com/in/jmunden/  
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

Data-Driven Growth for Manufacturers 📊 | Jarrod Adam

Jarrod Adam is Head of Production & Distribution at The Access Group
Explore how Unleashed helps small businesses thrive through AI-driven inventory management, smarter tools, and actionable data that streamline operations and empower strategic growth.
Summary
Today I’m speaking with Jarrod Adam, Head of Production & Distribution at The Access Group. In this episode, we talk about . . . how Unleashed empowers small businesses with actionable data, AI-powered tools, and integrated inventory solutions.
Introduction to Jarrod Adam and his background in product management
The story behind Unleashed and its acquisition by The Access Group
Overview of the inventory and warehouse management landscape for SMBs
Unleashed’s value proposition for small businesses and advisors
When and why to move from basic inventory in GL systems to dedicated inventory tools
Implementation approach and onboarding process at Unleashed
Unleashed’s ecosystem: integrations with Xero, QuickBooks, Shopify, Amazon & more
Evolving supply chain issues post-COVID and solutions like Advanced Inventory Manager (AIM)
AI in Unleashed: Evo copilot, AI feed, and intelligent agents
Partner Portal for accountants and bookkeepers – real-time client access
Use of operational data for advisory services
The Unleashed Manufacturing Health Index – valuable for advisory insights
Discussion around the manufacturing “haves and have-nots”
Closing thoughts on simplicity, design, and real value from software
🧰 Apps & Tools Mentioned:
Unleashed, Xero, QuickBooks, Shopify, WooCommerce, Amazon, Access Evo, Advanced Inventory Manager
⏱️ YouTube Timestamped Chapters
00:00 – Welcome & Guest Intro: Meet Jarrod Adam from Unleashed. 01:58 – From Tigerland to Tech: A playful rugby-themed intro. 04:20 – Jarrod’s Journey to Product Management: How he fell into software. 06:20 – Auckland’s Thriving SaaS Scene: NZ’s impact on global tech. 08:10 – Inventory, CRM & WMS Landscape: What SMBs need today. 10:50 – What Unleashed Does: Efficient workflows + strategic insights. 13:00 – Signs a Business Needs Unleashed: From post-it notes to stock stress. 15:20 – Accountant & Bookkeeper Pain Points: Data, margins & advisory blocks. 17:30 – Implementation Timeline: Fast, guided onboarding sessions. 19:05 – Unleashed Integrations: Xero, QuickBooks, Shopify, Amazon & more. 21:10 – E-commerce Growth Post-COVID: Why integrations are essential. 23:15 – AI & Forecasting with AIM: Managing supply chain uncertainty. 26:00 – Using Data for Better Advice: The power of operational insights. 28:00 – Manufacturing Health Index: A free resource for advisory. 30:00 – Characteristics of Thriving Manufacturers: Mitigating supplier risks. 32:15 – Partner Portal for Accountants: Real-time multi-client access. 34:00 – AI Copilot & Agents: How Evo enhances the user experience. 35:45 – Final Thoughts & Outro: Software should solve problems, not add them.
Contact details:
Sponsor Offers:  Here
Unleashed Software: https://www.unleashedsoftware.com/ 
Jarrod Adam: https://www.linkedin.com/in/jarrod-adam/ 
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

🌏 Leading Women in Accounting: Influence, Integrity & Impact

Insights from a global panel of women leaders in accounting, exploring influence, ethics, personal branding, and leadership challenges in a male-dominated profession.
Summary
In this special episode of the Accounting Apps Podcast, I moderated a global panel discussion at the Accounting & Business Show Asia 2025 in Singapore. I was joined by Kyelie Baxter (IQ Accountants), Uthaya Ponnusamy (RSM Singapore), and Magdalene Ang (R Chan & Associates, ACCA Singapore Chair) for a panel session I moderated called Influence, Integrity and Impact: Navigating the Reality of Women Leading in Accounting
 
Together we explored:
 
✅ Career journeys and leadership pivots
✅ Building confidence and personal brand (hello USP!)
✅ Ethics vs. earnings — where we draw the line
✅ Mentoring, connection and navigating invisible barriers
✅ Creating influence with integrity and making an impact
 
Listen if you're looking for insight, inspiration, or real-world stories from women reshaping leadership in accounting.
 
Contact details:
Sponsor Offers:  Here
Kyelie Baxter, Managing Director at IQ Accountants 
https://www.linkedin.com/in/kyelie-baxter-fcpa-43224334/ 
Uthaya Ponnusamy, Partner & Industry Lead - Not For Profit sector at RSM Singapore
https://www.linkedin.com/in/uthaya-ponnusamy-5bab1763/ 
Magdalene Ang, Director, R Chan & Associates PAC and Chair of ACCA Singapore Member Network Panel.
https://www.linkedin.com/in/magdalene-ang-fcca-fca-singapore-03b2084b/ 
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 Compliance to Sky-High Advisory ☁️ – Insights from the AB Show 2025

Live from the Accounting & Business Show Asia 2025 in Singapore, Heather chats with innovators about AI, e-invoicing, TikTok trends, cross-border payments and the evolving role of accountants in Asia
Summary
Heather Smith reports from the Accounting & Business Show Asia 2025 in Singapore, sharing floor interviews and key highlights. With strong Australian representation, she reflects on rapid regional digital transformation, cultural insights, and inspiring thought leadership.
Main Topics:
Singapore's digital drive: e-invoicing mandates and cheque phase-out
Government-backed AI innovation via AI Singapore
Roundtable on burnout, boundaries, and micro business sustainability
TikTok insights and media habits reshaping communication
Panel on women on boards and leadership pathways
Interviews Include:
Alvin Chia (OFX) – Cross-border payments with human-first support
Marvin Galang (Jaz AI) – AI-native accounting software for Southeast Asia
Bryan Sng (Simple AI) – AI agents automating accounting ops
Kelvin Koh (Identi.ly) – Face-key file security tech for sensitive documents
Andrew Paton-Smith (Jazoodle) – 60-second forecasts & valuation KPIs
Key Takeaways:
The future of advisory is now
AI is more than a buzzword in Singapore – it's a government initiative
Accountants must embrace tech and set strong boundaries
Social platforms like TikTok can't be ignored
Representation, integrity, and courage are crucial for boardroom progress
LinkedIn Posts from Singaporehttps://www.linkedin.com/posts/heathersmithau_abshowasia-accountingandaccountants-activity-7386538062283075584-1Vh2/
https://www.linkedin.com/posts/heathersmithau_acca-accountingandaccountants-abshowasia-activity-7386619905544056832-6Gdu/
 
https://www.linkedin.com/posts/heathersmithau_accountingandaccountants-abshowasia-activity-7386917433271439360-VY4Y/
 
https://www.linkedin.com/posts/heathersmithau_accountingandaccountants-abshowasia-activity-7386982271796490241-WgIh/ 
 
Contact details:
Sponsor Offers:  Here
Xero http://xero.com/
Koren Wines https://www.linkedin.com/in/koren-wines/ 
Sarah Foo https://www.linkedin.com/in/sarah-foo-fca/
Alvin Chia https://www.linkedin.com/in/alvin-chia-a15a6b65/ 
OFX https://www.ofx.com/ 
Marvin Galang https://www.linkedin.com/in/galangmr/ 
JAZ https://www.jaz.ai/  
Bryan Sng https://www.linkedin.com/in/bryansng/ 
SimpleAi https://simpleaiworks.com/ 
Kelvin Koh https://www.linkedin.com/in/nivlekoh/ 
Identi.ly https://identi.ly/ 
Andrew Paton-Smith https://www.linkedin.com/in/apatonsmith/ 
Jazoodle https://jazoodle.com/ 
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 Wind to Wins: Woolnorth Renewables NetSuite Journey

Kerry Butler, CFO of Woolnorth Renewables, Tasmania shares her bold NetSuite rollout, revealing strategic insights on tech, budgeting, AI, and scaling clean energy operations.
Summary
Today I’m speaking with Kerry Butler, CFO of Woolnorth Renewables, Tasmania
In this episode, we talk about . . .
Insights from attending SuiteWorld 2025 in Las Vegas
Strategic NetSuite rollout, starting with Planning & Budgeting (NSPB)
Overcoming implementation challenges with a lean finance team
Use of implementation partners: Pivot Two & Netgain
Multilingual board reporting (Chinese & English) and real-time forecasting
Integrations with SharePoint, virtual cards, and maintenance systems
Leveraging AI and Ask Oracle for smarter decision-making
Community involvement and commitment to renewable energy
Advice for scaling businesses and choosing the right tech stack
🧰 Apps & Tools Mentioned:
NetSuite, NetSuite Planning and Budgeting (NSPB), Netgain, Pivot Two, SharePoint, Smart View, Camtasia
📺 Timelines 
00:00 – Welcome & Guest Intro: Kerry Butler, CFO of Woolnorth Renewables 01:45 – Why Kerry Chose NetSuite: Flexibility and ecosystem advantages 04:12 – Board-Ready Reporting in Two Languages: How NSPB enabled it 06:57 – Implementing NSPB First: Breaking ERP rollout conventions 09:43 – Smart Budgeting Tools: Using Smart View for real-time inputs 12:21 – Leveraging Implementation Partners: Pivot Two & Netgain's role 15:02 – Complex Accounting Made Simple: Wind farms, loans & derivatives 17:35 – AI & Strategic Finance: What’s coming next in NetSuite 20:14 – Clean Data = Better AI: System integration & SharePoint sync 22:41 – Ask Oracle: AI-powered reporting for CFOs and CEOs 25:33 – SweetWorld Learnings: Building a global CFO network 28:08 – Advice for Scaling Businesses: Plan for future pain points now 30:17 – CFO Life at SweetWorld: Pitbull concert & Aussie networking 33:42 – Final Reflections: Strategic finance, partnerships & impact
Contact details:
Sponsor Offers:  Here
L: https://www.linkedin.com/in/kerry-butler-1333kes/ 
NetSuite: https://www.netsuite.com.au 
SuiteWorld: https://www.netsuitesuiteworld.com
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 Automation to Autonomy with NetSuite ⚙️| Scott Wiltshire

Scott Wiltshire, VP & GM of Oracle NetSuite ANZ, unpacks key SuiteWorld 2025 announcements, highlighting AI-driven tools, productivity boosts, and why NetSuite is a game-changer for growing businesses.
Summary
Today I’m speaking with Scott Wiltshire, VP & GM of Oracle NetSuite ANZ.
In this episode, we talk about . . .
Event recap: SuiteWorld 2025 highlights relevant to ANZ
Key tools: AI Connect Services, Prompt Studio, Autonomous Close, Subscription Metrics
NetSuite Next: Major platform upgrade promising zero-day close
Emphasis on AI for automation, reporting, and decision support
Discussion on value of attending SuiteWorld for ANZ professionals
Growing importance of NetSuite's partner ecosystem
Comparison between “automated” vs “autonomous” workflows
Advice on bridging the knowledge gap with dedicated support
NetSuite as a scalable “single source of truth” for growth-focused businesses
🧰 Apps & Tools Mentioned
NetSuite, AI Connect Services, ChatGPT, Prompt Studio, Subscription Metrics SuiteApp, Oracle Cloud Infrastructure (OCI), NetSuite Analytics Warehouse, Safe Search, Advanced Customer Support
⏱️ Timelines
00:00 – Welcome & Introduction: Heather sets the stage for the SuiteWorld 2025 recap 01:15 – NetSuite AI Connect Services: Plug in your AI assistant for real-time action 02:50 – Prompt Studio Explained: Build & deploy GenAI prompts in workflows 04:35 – Subscription Metrics SuiteApp: Real-time visibility into recurring revenue 06:10 – Interview with Scott Wiltshire Begins: First impressions from Las Vegas 08:05 – The AI Buzz at SuiteWorld: Surge in demand for AI-powered accounting 10:00 – Why ANZ Pros Should Attend: Learning, networking, and discovering tools 12:00 – NetSuite as a Growth Platform: From MYOB/Xero to scalable ERP 13:45 – NetSuite Next Preview: Major AI-powered platform upgrade incoming 15:30 – Autonomous Close Feature: Moving towards zero-day book closing 17:20 – Natural Language Reporting: Talk to NetSuite using plain English 19:00 – Prompt Studio in Practice: Real examples from product-based businesses 21:00 – Most Underused New Feature: AI model integration & free querying tools 22:40 – NetSuite’s Partner Ecosystem: Extending NetSuite through collaboration
Contact details:
Sponsor Offers:  Here
L: https://www.linkedin.com/in/scottpwiltshire/ 
NetSuite: https://www.netsuite.com.au 
SuiteWorld: https://www.netsuitesuiteworld.com
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 27 Xero Files to NetSuite Powerhouse 🧠|Dianna Butterworth

Dianna Butterworth, CFO of Kieser Australia shares the move from 27 Xero files to NetSuite, improving scalability, budgeting, and team empowerment. 
Summary
Today I’m speaking with Dianna Butterworth, CFO of Kieser Australia s
In this episode, we talk about . . .
Background: Dianna’s path from financial advisor and entrepreneur to CFOCompany Overview: Kieser Australia is a physiotherapy-led strength training provider with 31 clinicsInitial Challenge: Managing 27 separate Xero files across clinicsSolution Chosen: NetSuite ERP with implementation by AnexaKey Outcomes:
Replaced 80+ spreadsheets with NetSuite Planning and Budgeting
Improved team efficiency, moving from 1:5 to 1:12 clinic-to-bookkeeper ratio
Faster monthly reporting and greater data visibility
Budget cycle shortened from six months to one to two months
Integrated Tools: Celigo, Zone & Co, ExpenseMeConference Takeaways: Upcoming AI features in NetSuite and the value of peer networkingAdvice to CFOs:
Invest early in scalable systems
Prioritise agility as much as accuracy
Build confidence in the numbers to support growth
🧰 Apps & Tools Mentioned:
NetSuite, Xero, NetSuite Planning and Budgeting, Celigo, Zone & Co, ExpenseMe, ApprovalMax, Rippling, Blue Collar Cloud Solutions
⏱️ Timelines
00:00 – Welcome and Introduction: Meet Dianna Butterworth, CFO of Keiser Australia 01:40 – Career Journey: From cufflinks to CFO 03:55 – About Kieser: What the business does and how it helps Australians 06:40 – Before NetSuite: The chaos of 27 Xero files 09:10 – Choosing NetSuite: Finding the right ERP for growth 11:30 – Empowering the Team: Moving from manual tasks to analysis 13:45 – Budgeting Breakthrough: Ditching spreadsheets for better planning 16:00 – Role of Anexa: Importance of a strong implementation partner 18:35 – Tech Stack Deep Dive: Celigo, Zone & Co, ExpenseMe 21:00 – Budgeting Speed: From six months to one month 23:30 – Advice for CFOs: Invest early and trust your data 25:20 – Insights from SuiteWorld: AI, networking and lifelong learning 28:10 – Wrapping Up: Thinking big and enjoying the journey
Contact details:
L: https://www.linkedin.com/in/dianna-butterworth-9088947a/  
NetSuite: https://www.netsuite.com.au 
SuiteWorld: https://www.netsuitesuiteworld.com
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