Accounting Apps Podcast

🚀 NetSuite NEXT: AI, Automation & Global Growth |Craig Sullivan

Craig Sullivan, Group VP of Product Management, NetSuite  joins Heather Smith at SuiteWorld25 to reveal AI, automation, and global ERP innovations transforming how accountants and businesses scale smarter.
Summary
Today I’m speaking with Craig Sullivan, Group VP of Product Management, NetSuite
In this episode, we talk about . . .
Insights into NetSuite Next: AI-native ERP, natural language queries & agentic workflows
Grounded AI: Role-based, explainable responses tailored to accounting & finance users
Internationalisation & multilingual support coming to NetSuite AI
Global compliance & e-invoicing updates—AI-enabled validation for governments
AI Connector: Bridging NetSuite with tools like ChatGPT for insights and storefront integration
Advice for accountants stepping into ERP consulting
Importance of planning in successful NetSuite implementation
"Suite Success" methodology explained
Closing with Pitbull (Mr. Worldwide) and the global theme of SuiteWorld25
🧰 Apps & Tools Mentioned
NetSuite, Oracle, ApprovalMax, Soldo, Synder, ChatGPT, Claude, Shopify
 
⏱️ Timelines
00:00 – Welcome to SuiteWorld25: Craig Sullivan joins live from Las Vegas02:15 – Why Accountants Should Care: NetSuite's role in SME digital transformation04:40 – From Frustration to Innovation: Craig’s journey from accountant to product leader07:55 – Big Reveal: What NetSuite NEXT brings to ERP and accounting10:30 – Grounded AI & Natural Language: Role-aware, explainable ERP queries13:25 – Jet Engine, Not Co-Pilot: NetSuite’s bold AI claims15:40 – Going Global: Supporting business in 160+ countries with OneWorld18:20 – AI in Multiple Languages: Multilingual support explained20:05 – E-Invoicing Powered by AI: Compliance turned efficiency booster22:40 – Ask Oracle & Contextual Insights: Smarter decision-making with AI24:55 – AI Connectors in Action: Real-world ChatGPT and Claude integrations27:10 – What Accountants Should Know: Scaling smart from Day One29:00 – Implementation Pitfalls: Planning as the missing puzzle piece30:35 – The Power of Sweet Success: Best practice baked into ERP deployment32:10 – Craig’s Final Insights: AI’s future role in accounting33:55 – Bonus Fun: Pitbull, Mr. Worldwide, and SuiteWorld party prep!
 
Contact details:
L: https://www.linkedin.com/in/craigssullivan/  
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 Heels to Converse: The Advisory Revolution | Madeline Reeves

Madeline Reeves shares how Advisory Amplified is reimagining accounting conferences with community focus, practical advisory content, and a women-led, inclusive approach.
Summary
Today I’m speaking with Madeline Reeves, Founder & CEO of Fearless Foundry, creator of Advisory Amplified.
In this episode, we talk about . . . Reinventing accounting conferences through a six-city U.S. tour focused on practical advisory content and community building.
Challenges with traditional conferences and the need for real-world application.
Advisory vs. CAS: Clarifying the terminology and implementation.
Empowering women and underrepresented voices in accounting events.
Localised content and community connection via hometown hosts.
Practical tools and strategies for implementing advisory services.
Workbook-based workshops with real, actionable takeaways.
Partnering only with vendors who deliver educational (not salesey) content.
Launching a virtual version of Advisory Amplified on November 18.
Vision for future global expansion and continued grassroots connection.
🌟 Advisory Amplified Sponsors
Fathom – Financial analysis and management reporting tool for accountants and business owners.
Ignition – Client engagement and billing platform that automates proposals, contracts, and payments.
Karbon – Practice management software for accounting firms, streamlining tasks, emails, and workflows.
Relay – Online business banking designed for accountants and small businesses, with integrated financial controls.
OnPay – Payroll and HR software for small businesses, handling wages, tax filings, and benefits.
Fearless Foundry – Creative consulting firm that helps entrepreneurs and organisations with branding, marketing, and strategy.
🧰 Apps & Tools Mentioned:
Avalara, QuickBooks Online Accountant (QBOA), TSheets, Hubdoc,  Abacor, Firm360, Taxfyle
Timestamp 
00:00 – Welcome Madeline Reeves: Advisory Amplified rethinks accounting events. 02:05 – From Avalara to Advisory Leader: Madeline’s tech-to-advisory journey. 06:10 – Why Advisory Amplified Exists: Gaps in traditional conferences. 09:30 – Real Talk: Advisory in the US vs. Global: What's missing in America. 13:25 – Designing Inclusive Conferences: Women-led by design, not default. 17:15 – The Power of Representation: All-female AI panel moment in Chicago. 20:40 – Tools Driving the Advisory Shift: What tech supports real advisory? 23:55 – Advisory Tech Stack Talk: Practical sessions with partner input. 27:10 – From Random Acts of Consulting to Service Lines: Productizing advisory. 30:35 – AI + Advisory Integration: Using AI for better client conversations. 34:00 – Hands-On Learning With Workbooks: Goodbye chicken scratch notes. 37:15 – Building Community with Local Flavour: Hometown hosts & local vendors. 41:05 – Sponsors with Substance: No sales pitches—only educational value. 44:25 – The Value of Diverse Perspectives: Unlocking new ideas through inclusion. 47:00 – Advisory Mindsets & Skills: Let go of perfection, focus on listening. 50:15 – Stop Selling, Start Serving: Grow advisory with current clients. 53:10 – Advisory Amplified Goes Virtual: November 18 launch details. 55:30 – Global Ambitions + The Bus Dream: What's next for the conference. 58:00 – Final Thoughts: Building a future-focused, community-powered industry.
Contact details:
 
Madeline Reeves: https://www.linkedin.com/in/madelinefearless/
Fearless Foundry: https://www.fearlessfoundry.com/
Advisory Amplified: https://www.advisoryamplified.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

🧠 Growth Mindset & Intentionality: Keys to Practice Success w. Liam Hindle

Liam Hindle, GM of Product & Product Marketing at MYOB
MYOB's Liam Hindle shares insights from the Accounting Industry Monitor, the future of AI in accounting, and how practices can evolve through tech, efficiency, and growth mindset strategies.
Summary
Today I’m speaking with Liam Hindle, GM of Product & Product Marketing at MYOB
Liam highlights "intentionality" as a key to the cultural and operational trait that sets progressive accounting firms apart. 
"I think for me, the word that comes to mind is that they're intentional."
He elaborated that these firms:
Don’t improve by accident or as a byproduct.
Make conscious decisions to invest in their people and operations.
Regularly review processes and strategies.
Prioritise professional development and operational efficiency.
Make strategic use of technology to free up time for high-value work.
Liam emphasized that intentionality helps firms shift from reactive, deadline-driven work to proactive, strategic engagement, unlocking value for both clients and team members.
In this episode, we also talk about . . .
Focus on MYOB’s vision for accounting practices;
Key takeaways from the MYOB Accounting Industry Monitor;
Strategies for handling talent shortages & fostering a growth mindset; 
AI literacy and upskilling as tools for retention & recruitment;
Operational tips for improving efficiency through standardisation and automation;
Importance of strong onboarding and client engagement; 
Data security and AI risk management in MYOB’s product development;
Future of accounting tech: Agentic AI and embedded AI in workflows;
MYOB’s upcoming compliance-focused tools and strategic advisory enablement
 
🧰 Apps & Tools Mentioned:
Apps & Tools Mentioned: MYOB, ChatGPT, Claude, AWS, Teams Copilot, Fireflies
Contact details:
Liam Hindle https://www.linkedin.com/in/liamhindle/
MYOB https://www.myob.com/au 
Accounting Apps newsletter: http://accountingapps.io/ 
LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/HeatherSmithAU/ 
YouTube Channel: https://www.youtube.com/ANISEConsulting 
X: https://twitter.com/HeatherSmithAU

✅ I need your vote in the ACCA Council Election

Heather Smith shares why she’s running for the ACCA Global Council, highlighting her advocacy work, global experience, and vision for a future-focused, member-driven ACCA.
Summary
📌 Episode Summary (Bullet Points)
Heather Smith announces her candidacy for the ACCA Global Council.
She reflects on 30 years as an ACCA member and her international career.
Advocates for stronger representation from the Southern Hemisphere.
Discusses her roles in ACCA’s global SME and technology forums.
Emphasises her long-standing commitment to member support and tech innovation.
Calls for members to vote, noting the significant impact of each ballot.
Encourages non-voting listeners to spread the word within their network.
Hi, my name is Heather Smith, and you’re listening to the Accounting Apps Podcast.
I’m jumping in with something a little different today. As you may have seen on my socials, I’m standing as a candidate in the ACCA Global Council elections.
I’ve been a proud member of the Association of Chartered Certified Accountants for nearly 30 years. It’s opened doors for me to work across Australia, Singapore, England, and Canada, and it’s connected me with inspiring accountants worldwide. ACCA has been the foundation of a rewarding, impactful career, and even enabled me—through a memorandum of understanding—to join Chartered Accountants ANZ.
Now, I’m standing for Council as a way of giving back to the membership that has given me so much.
If you’re an eligible member, I encourage you to listen on. If you’re not, perhaps you know someone who is—please nudge them to vote. It can be hard for candidates from the Southern Hemisphere to gain momentum, so every vote really matters.
Why Council Matters Council sets ACCA’s direction:
How it supports members
How it advocates with regulators
How it prepares for challenges like AI, sustainability, digital transformation, and the talent pipeline
These issues affect every member, everywhere.
A Bit About Me
I’m the first Australian-born ACCA Fellow.
In this election, I’m the only candidate from the Southern Hemisphere. Once elected, however, you represent all members globally.
I chair the ACCA Global Forum for SMEs.
I’m a member of the Global Forum for Technology.
I’ve authored 10 business books (and am working on my 11th).
I’ve hosted this podcast for 10 years.
I’ve represented ACCA at more than 100 international conferences, championing innovation, ethics, technology, and inclusion.
In 2024, I was named Accounting Thought Leader of the Year.
Over the years, I’ve also represented ACCA to the Australian Tax Office, funding my own travel and accommodation to secure recognition for ACCA members. These things aren’t always visible, but they matter.
I’m passionate about giving SMEs and SMPs a strong voice, about using technology to work for us, and about ensuring members are at the heart of every decision.
Why Your Vote Counts Last year, fewer than 5% of members voted. That means each vote carries the weight of about 20 votes in a typical election. You can select up to 21 candidates, and I’d be honoured if one of those votes went to me, Heather Smith.
Voting instructions should now be in your inbox.
Together, let’s build a future-focused, globally connected ACCA that supports members everywhere.
Please take five minutes to vote—and if you’re not eligible, encourage someone you know who is.
Thank you for listening. I’m Heather Smith, and this is the Accounting Apps Podcast.
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

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