<![CDATA[The People Behind the Books]]>The People Behind the Books explores the human aspect of the tax and accounting field. From entertaining stories to inspirational lessons, you're bound to learn something new and get a peek behind the curtain with the people doing the everyday work of accountants.

]]>thepeoplebehindthebooks.comRiverside.fm (https://riverside.com)Sat, 06 Jun 2026 13:31:47 GMTWed, 05 Nov 2025 20:37:09 GMT60Yehuda Tenenbaum, EA<p>The People Behind the Books explores the human aspect of the tax and accounting field. From entertaining stories to inspirational lessons, you're bound to learn something new and get a peek behind the curtain with the people doing the everyday work of accountants.</p>episodicYehuda Tenenbaum, EAthepeoplebehindthebooks@gmail.comno<![CDATA[Ep. 9: Upkeeping Around the World with Erin Pohan]]>Erin Pohan, founder of Upkeeping and WAVE-Seattle, shares her journey from a small-town girl in Cleveland to a successful entrepreneur. She discusses her early experiences in accounting, her time living in Japan, and the challenges of balancing work and family life. Erin also delves into the creation of her bookkeeping business and her passion for community engagement through content creation and conferences. She emphasizes the importance of mindset in entrepreneurship and offers valuable advice for aspiring accountants. The conversation concludes with insights into the future of accounting in the age of AI.

Connect with Erin!

https://www.linkedin.com/in/erinpohan/

🤝Connect with Yehuda:
🐦X: https://x.com/Y10Tax
💼LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/yehuda-tenenbaum/

✉️Want to join the show? Send me an email @ thepeoplebehindthebooks@gmail.com.

http://thepeoplebehindthebooks.com/


00:00 Intro

02:35 Journey into Accounting

11:46 Life in Japan and Career Development

14:03 Transitioning to Philadelphia and Work-Life Balance

24:59 Starting Upkeeping: The Birth of a Business

33:12 Day-to-Day Operations at Upkeeping

39:06 Creating Content and Community Engagement

41:59 Launching Wave Seattle Conference

48:24 Advice for Aspiring Accountants

51:01 The Future of Accounting and AI

54:54 Rapid Fire Questions

]]>261f69dd-f1e9-4d67-8dea-2b432823eb6fTue, 12 May 2026 16:14:23 GMT<p>Erin Pohan, founder of Upkeeping and WAVE-Seattle, shares her journey from a small-town girl in Cleveland to a successful entrepreneur. She discusses her early experiences in accounting, her time living in Japan, and the challenges of balancing work and family life. Erin also delves into the creation of her bookkeeping business and her passion for community engagement through content creation and conferences. She emphasizes the importance of mindset in entrepreneurship and offers valuable advice for aspiring accountants. The conversation concludes with insights into the future of accounting in the age of AI.</p><p></p><p>Connect with Erin!</p><p><a rel="noopener noreferrer nofollow" href="https://www.linkedin.com/in/erinpohan/" target="_blank">https://www.linkedin.com/in/erinpohan/</a></p><p></p><p>🤝Connect with Yehuda:<br />🐦X:<a rel="noopener noreferrer nofollow" href="https://x.com/Y10Tax" target="_blank"> https://x.com/Y10Tax<br /></a>💼LinkedIn:<a rel="noopener noreferrer nofollow" href="https://www.linkedin.com/in/yehuda-tenenbaum/" target="_blank"> https://www.linkedin.com/in/yehuda-tenenbaum/</a></p><p>✉️Want to join the show? Send me an email @ <a rel="noopener noreferrer nofollow" href="mailto:thepeoplebehindthebooks@gmail.com" target="_blank">thepeoplebehindthebooks@gmail.com</a>.</p><p></p><p><a rel="noopener noreferrer nofollow" href="http://thepeoplebehindthebooks.com/" target="_blank">http://thepeoplebehindthebooks.com/</a></p><p><br /></p><p>00:00 Intro</p><p>02:35 Journey into Accounting</p><p>11:46 Life in Japan and Career Development</p><p>14:03 Transitioning to Philadelphia and Work-Life Balance</p><p>24:59 Starting Upkeeping: The Birth of a Business</p><p>33:12 Day-to-Day Operations at Upkeeping</p><p>39:06 Creating Content and Community Engagement</p><p>41:59 Launching Wave Seattle Conference</p><p>48:24 Advice for Aspiring Accountants</p><p>51:01 The Future of Accounting and AI</p><p>54:54 Rapid Fire Questions</p>no00:57:3419Ep. 9: Upkeeping Around the World with Erin Pohanfull<![CDATA[Ep. 8 with Randy Crabtree]]>Randy Crabtree shares his journey from computer science to becoming a CPA and starting his own firm. He discusses the entrepreneurial spirit that drove him, the challenges he faced in the accounting profession, and the importance of community and mentorship. Randy also highlights impactful client stories and his involvement with the Accounting Cornerstone Foundation, emphasizing the need for empathy and boundaries in the profession. He concludes with advice for aspiring accountants and insights into the future of the accounting industry.

Connect with Randy!

💼 LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/randy-crabtree-cpa-1945a67/

🤝Connect with Yehuda:
🐦X: https://x.com/Y10Tax
💼LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/yehuda-tenenbaum/

✉️Want to join the show? Send me an email @ thepeoplebehindthebooks@gmail.com.

http://thepeoplebehindthebooks.com/


00:00 Introduction and Background

03:38 Career Transition and Entrepreneurial Spirit

06:48 The Journey to Becoming a CPA

09:37 Starting a Firm and Early Challenges

12:37 Lessons Learned from Managing a Firm

15:33 The Shift to a Niche Practice

18:47 Memorable Client Stories and Impact

21:29 Conclusion and Reflections on the Profession

27:36 Founding the Accounting Cornerstone Foundation

29:55 The Role of Conferences in Professional Growth

30:47 First Impressions of Accounting Conferences

33:23 Building Community Through Conferences

35:34 The Unique Role of Accountants

39:28 The Future of the Accounting Profession

41:56 Encouraging the Next Generation of Accountants

44:52 Lightning Round: Quickfire Questions

]]>a34a102b-c812-4d0c-8ed7-b52362513afbFri, 24 Apr 2026 16:00:29 GMT<p>Randy Crabtree shares his journey from computer science to becoming a CPA and starting his own firm. He discusses the entrepreneurial spirit that drove him, the challenges he faced in the accounting profession, and the importance of community and mentorship. Randy also highlights impactful client stories and his involvement with the Accounting Cornerstone Foundation, emphasizing the need for empathy and boundaries in the profession. He concludes with advice for aspiring accountants and insights into the future of the accounting industry.</p><p></p><p>Connect with Randy!</p><p>💼 LinkedIn: <a rel="noopener noreferrer nofollow" href="https://www.linkedin.com/in/randy-crabtree-cpa-1945a67/" target="_blank">https://www.linkedin.com/in/randy-crabtree-cpa-1945a67/</a></p><p></p><p>🤝Connect with Yehuda:<br />🐦X:<a rel="noopener noreferrer nofollow" href="https://x.com/Y10Tax" target="_blank"> https://x.com/Y10Tax<br /></a>💼LinkedIn:<a rel="noopener noreferrer nofollow" href="https://www.linkedin.com/in/yehuda-tenenbaum/" target="_blank"> https://www.linkedin.com/in/yehuda-tenenbaum/</a></p><p>✉️Want to join the show? Send me an email @ <a rel="noopener noreferrer nofollow" href="mailto:thepeoplebehindthebooks@gmail.com" target="_blank">thepeoplebehindthebooks@gmail.com</a>.</p><p><a rel="noopener noreferrer nofollow" href="http://thepeoplebehindthebooks.com/" target="_blank">http://thepeoplebehindthebooks.com/</a></p><p><br />00:00 Introduction and Background</p><p>03:38 Career Transition and Entrepreneurial Spirit</p><p>06:48 The Journey to Becoming a CPA</p><p>09:37 Starting a Firm and Early Challenges</p><p>12:37 Lessons Learned from Managing a Firm</p><p>15:33 The Shift to a Niche Practice</p><p>18:47 Memorable Client Stories and Impact</p><p>21:29 Conclusion and Reflections on the Profession</p><p>27:36 Founding the Accounting Cornerstone Foundation</p><p>29:55 The Role of Conferences in Professional Growth</p><p>30:47 First Impressions of Accounting Conferences</p><p>33:23 Building Community Through Conferences</p><p>35:34 The Unique Role of Accountants</p><p>39:28 The Future of the Accounting Profession</p><p>41:56 Encouraging the Next Generation of Accountants</p><p>44:52 Lightning Round: Quickfire Questions</p>no00:48:1818Ep. 8 with Randy Crabtreefull<![CDATA[Ep. 7: She Did Everything Right… Then Chose a Different Path with Rebecca Driscoll]]>Have you ever wondered if the “right” accounting path you’re on is actually the best one for you?

Many accountants do everything by the book—climb the ladder, build the firm, serve the clients—only to quietly question whether the way they’re working is sustainable, fulfilling, or even necessary. This episode speaks directly to that moment of tension: when you’re successful on paper, but sense there may be a smarter, healthier, more intentional way to build your career without walking away from the profession you care about.

By listening to this episode, you’ll walk away with:

  • A clearer understanding of how to serve clients deeply without letting responsibility consume your life
  • Practical insight into why systems, boundaries, and community aren’t “nice-to-haves,” but leverage points for long-term success
  • A broader view of what’s actually possible in an accounting career—especially paths most people don’t realize are options

Press play to hear how one accountant’s unconventional choices reshaped her career—and may help you rethink what’s next for yours.


Connect with Rebecca!

🐦 X: https://x.com/RDriscollCPA

💼 LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/rebecca-driscoll-cpa/

🌐 http://rdriscollcpa.com/

Checkout The Collaboration Room

🐦 X: https://x.com/tcrtalks

💼 LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/company/tcr-talks

🌐 http://thecollaborationroom.co/


🤝Connect with Yehuda:
🐦X: https://x.com/Y10Tax
💼LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/yehuda-tenenbaum/

✉️Want to join the show? Send me an email @ thepeoplebehindthebooks@gmail.com.

http://thepeoplebehindthebooks.com/

00:00 Welcome to The People Behind the Books
02:45 Introducing Rebecca Driscoll
02:50 From middle-school teaching to accounting
08:22 Learning bookkeeping the hard way
10:11 Making the leap into tax preparation
13:58 Inside accounting firm culture
17:11 Why technology matters more than most firms realize
19:11 Building a book of business
21:34 How COVID reshaped accounting practices
23:29 The evolution of Rebecca’s firm
25:56 The challenges of being a boss
28:45 Setting and enforcing client boundaries
31:28 Work-life balance and personal growth
33:55 Coaching and helping other accountants
39:33 How the profession perceives its own challenges
41:20 Work-life balance and gender dynamics in accounting
42:51 Advice for new firm owners
43:37 Why community matters in accounting
46:47 The origin of The Collaboration Room
50:38 Building partnerships across differences
54:27 Creating a supportive professional community
57:19 The real value of networking
01:02:02 Personal insights & lightning round

]]>b6fe2b76-b8d6-46ad-bd1a-021c54d825b1Mon, 09 Feb 2026 21:42:22 GMT<p>Have you ever wondered if the “right” accounting path you’re on is actually the best one for you?</p><p></p><p>Many accountants do everything by the book—climb the ladder, build the firm, serve the clients—only to quietly question whether the way they’re working is sustainable, fulfilling, or even necessary. This episode speaks directly to that moment of tension: when you’re successful on paper, but sense there may be a smarter, healthier, more intentional way to build your career without walking away from the profession you care about.</p><p>By listening to this episode, you’ll walk away with:</p><ul><li>A clearer understanding of how to serve clients deeply <i>without</i> letting responsibility consume your life</li><li>Practical insight into why systems, boundaries, and community aren’t “nice-to-haves,” but leverage points for long-term success</li><li>A broader view of what’s actually possible in an accounting career—especially paths most people don’t realize are options</li></ul><p>Press play to hear how one accountant’s unconventional choices reshaped her career—and may help you rethink what’s next for yours.</p><p><br />Connect with Rebecca!</p><p>🐦 X:<a rel="noopener noreferrer nofollow" href="https://x.com/Y10Tax" target="_blank"> </a><a rel="noopener noreferrer nofollow" href="https://x.com/RDriscollCPA" target="_blank">https://x.com/RDriscollCPA</a></p><p>💼 LinkedIn: <a rel="noopener noreferrer nofollow" href="https://www.linkedin.com/in/rebecca-driscoll-cpa/" target="_blank">https://www.linkedin.com/in/rebecca-driscoll-cpa/</a></p><p>🌐 <a rel="noopener noreferrer nofollow" href="http://rdriscollcpa.com/" target="_blank">http://rdriscollcpa.com/</a></p><p></p><p>Checkout The Collaboration Room</p><p>🐦 X: <a rel="noopener noreferrer nofollow" href="https://x.com/tcrtalks" target="_blank">https://x.com/tcrtalks</a></p><p>💼 LinkedIn: <a rel="noopener noreferrer nofollow" href="https://www.linkedin.com/company/tcr-talks" target="_blank">https://www.linkedin.com/company/tcr-talks</a></p><p>🌐 <a rel="noopener noreferrer nofollow" href="http://thecollaborationroom.co/" target="_blank">http://thecollaborationroom.co/</a></p><p><br />🤝Connect with Yehuda:<br />🐦X:<a rel="noopener noreferrer nofollow" href="https://x.com/Y10Tax" target="_blank"> https://x.com/Y10Tax<br /></a>💼LinkedIn:<a rel="noopener noreferrer nofollow" href="https://www.linkedin.com/in/yehuda-tenenbaum/" target="_blank"> https://www.linkedin.com/in/yehuda-tenenbaum/</a></p><p>✉️Want to join the show? Send me an email @ <a rel="noopener noreferrer nofollow" href="mailto:thepeoplebehindthebooks@gmail.com" target="_blank">thepeoplebehindthebooks@gmail.com</a>.</p><p><a rel="noopener noreferrer nofollow" href="http://thepeoplebehindthebooks.com/" target="_blank">http://thepeoplebehindthebooks.com/</a></p><p></p><p>00:00 Welcome to The People Behind the Books<br />02:45 Introducing Rebecca Driscoll<br />02:50 From middle-school teaching to accounting<br />08:22 Learning bookkeeping the hard way<br />10:11 Making the leap into tax preparation<br />13:58 Inside accounting firm culture<br />17:11 Why technology matters more than most firms realize<br />19:11 Building a book of business<br />21:34 How COVID reshaped accounting practices<br />23:29 The evolution of Rebecca’s firm<br />25:56 The challenges of being a boss<br />28:45 Setting and enforcing client boundaries<br />31:28 Work-life balance and personal growth<br />33:55 Coaching and helping other accountants<br />39:33 How the profession perceives its own challenges<br />41:20 Work-life balance and gender dynamics in accounting<br />42:51 Advice for new firm owners<br />43:37 Why community matters in accounting<br />46:47 The origin of The Collaboration Room<br />50:38 Building partnerships across differences<br />54:27 Creating a supportive professional community<br />57:19 The real value of networking<br />01:02:02 Personal insights &amp; lightning round</p>no01:08:10Ep. 7: She Did Everything Right… Then Chose a Different Path with Rebecca Driscollfull<![CDATA[Ep 6: She Trained at Juilliard, Then Built a 40-Year Tax Career Helping Artists, Audits, and the IRS]]>What do Juilliard, IRS audits, and international artists have in common? In this episode of The People Behind the Books, Yehuda sits down with Phyllis Jo Kubey, EA, CFP, to explore her unexpected path from classical music to a 40-year career in tax. Phyllis shares real-world lessons from representing complex clients, navigating audits and collections, advocating confidently with the IRS, and building a long, sustainable career rooted in trust, preparation, and empathy. This conversation offers tax and accounting professionals a rare look at the human side of practice, and what truly makes a difference over the long run.

Connect with Phyllis!

🐦 X: https://x.com/PKubeyEA

💼 LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/phyllis-jo-kubey-b04757a/ 

🌐 Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/phyllisjokubey/

🌐 Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/phyllis.kubey.7

🤝Connect with Yehuda:
🐦X: https://x.com/Y10Tax
💼LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/yehuda-tenenbaum/

✉️Want to join the show? Send me an email @ thepeoplebehindthebooks@gmail.com.

http://thepeoplebehindthebooks.com/

00:00 Introduction to Phyllis Jo Kubey
01:07 Phyllis's Journey from Music to Taxes
10:12 Building a Tax Practice in New York
17:12 Navigating Tax Law Changes
20:48 Bridging the Gap Between Creatives and Taxes
23:59 Helping Clients Overcome Tax Challenges
30:45 Success Stories in Tax Resolution
36:56 Navigating Complex Tax Situations
39:03 Client Management and Fee Structures
45:42 Professional Involvement and Networking
51:30 Insights from the IRS Advisory Council
01:01:08 The Future of Tax Professionals
01:05:34 Rapid Fire Questions and Personal Insights

]]>13a7ba6a-f437-40b1-8274-4b042d9ef425Fri, 23 Jan 2026 15:24:08 GMT<p>What do Juilliard, IRS audits, and international artists have in common? In this episode of The People Behind the Books, Yehuda sits down with Phyllis Jo Kubey, EA, CFP, to explore her unexpected path from classical music to a 40-year career in tax. Phyllis shares real-world lessons from representing complex clients, navigating audits and collections, advocating confidently with the IRS, and building a long, sustainable career rooted in trust, preparation, and empathy. This conversation offers tax and accounting professionals a rare look at the human side of practice, and what truly makes a difference over the long run.<br /></p><p>Connect with Phyllis!</p><p>🐦 X:<a rel="noopener noreferrer nofollow" href="https://x.com/Y10Tax" target="_blank"> </a><a rel="noopener noreferrer nofollow" href="https://x.com/PKubeyEA" target="_blank">https://x.com/PKubeyEA</a></p><p>💼 LinkedIn: <a rel="noopener noreferrer nofollow" href="https://www.linkedin.com/in/phyllis-jo-kubey-b04757a/" target="_blank">https://www.linkedin.com/in/phyllis-jo-kubey-b04757a/</a> </p><p>🌐 Instagram: <a rel="noopener noreferrer nofollow" href="https://www.instagram.com/phyllisjokubey/" target="_blank">https://www.instagram.com/phyllisjokubey/</a></p><p>🌐 Facebook: <a rel="noopener noreferrer nofollow" href="https://www.facebook.com/phyllis.kubey.7" target="_blank">https://www.facebook.com/phyllis.kubey.7</a></p><p></p><p>🤝Connect with Yehuda:<br />🐦X:<a rel="noopener noreferrer nofollow" href="https://x.com/Y10Tax" target="_blank"> https://x.com/Y10Tax<br /></a>💼LinkedIn:<a rel="noopener noreferrer nofollow" href="https://www.linkedin.com/in/yehuda-tenenbaum/" target="_blank"> https://www.linkedin.com/in/yehuda-tenenbaum/</a></p><p></p><p>✉️Want to join the show? Send me an email @ <a rel="noopener noreferrer nofollow" href="mailto:thepeoplebehindthebooks@gmail.com" target="_blank">thepeoplebehindthebooks@gmail.com</a>.</p><p><a rel="noopener noreferrer nofollow" href="http://thepeoplebehindthebooks.com/" target="_blank">http://thepeoplebehindthebooks.com/</a></p><p></p><p>00:00 Introduction to Phyllis Jo Kubey<br />01:07 Phyllis's Journey from Music to Taxes<br />10:12 Building a Tax Practice in New York<br />17:12 Navigating Tax Law Changes<br />20:48 Bridging the Gap Between Creatives and Taxes<br />23:59 Helping Clients Overcome Tax Challenges<br />30:45 Success Stories in Tax Resolution<br />36:56 Navigating Complex Tax Situations<br />39:03 Client Management and Fee Structures<br />45:42 Professional Involvement and Networking<br />51:30 Insights from the IRS Advisory Council<br />01:01:08 The Future of Tax Professionals<br />01:05:34 Rapid Fire Questions and Personal Insights</p>no01:09:2216Ep 6: She Trained at Juilliard, Then Built a 40-Year Tax Career Helping Artists, Audits, and the IRSfull<![CDATA[Episode 5: Software Engineer to AI Accounting with Helen Hastings]]>In this episode, we meet Helen Hastings. A software engineer by trade, Helen discusses Quanta's vision to serve as a comprehensive financial system for businesses, emphasizing the importance of having all financial data centralized to provide real-time insights. She highlights the needs of small businesses, which often seek efficient solutions rather than complex accounting software.


Connect with Helen and Quanta!

💼LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/helenbhastings/

🌐https://www.usequanta.com/

🤝Connect with Yehuda:

🐦X: https://x.com/Y10Tax

💼LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/yehuda-tenenbaum/

✉️Want to join the show? Send me an email @ thepeoplebehindthebooks@gmail.com.

http://thepeoplebehindthebooks.com/

🧾Need help with your taxes? https://www.y10tax.com/

]]>98fbe014-9467-4099-a0f9-9d49be277c78Fri, 09 Jan 2026 13:15:00 GMT<p>In this episode, we meet Helen Hastings. A software engineer by trade, Helen discusses Quanta's vision to serve as a comprehensive financial system for businesses, emphasizing the importance of having all financial data centralized to provide real-time insights. She highlights the needs of small businesses, which often seek efficient solutions rather than complex accounting software.</p><p><br />Connect with Helen and Quanta!</p><p></p><p>💼LinkedIn: <a rel="noopener noreferrer nofollow" href="https://www.linkedin.com/in/helenbhastings/" target="_blank">https://www.linkedin.com/in/helenbhastings/</a></p><p>🌐<a rel="noopener noreferrer nofollow" href="https://www.usequanta.com/" target="_blank">https://www.usequanta.com/</a></p><p></p><p>🤝Connect with Yehuda:</p><p>🐦X:<a rel="noopener noreferrer nofollow" href="https://x.com/Y10Tax" target="_blank"> https://x.com/Y10Tax</a></p><p>💼LinkedIn:<a rel="noopener noreferrer nofollow" href="https://www.linkedin.com/in/yehuda-tenenbaum/" target="_blank"> https://www.linkedin.com/in/yehuda-tenenbaum/</a></p><p>✉️Want to join the show? Send me an email @ <a rel="noopener noreferrer nofollow" href="mailto:thepeoplebehindthebooks@gmail.com" target="_blank">thepeoplebehindthebooks@gmail.com</a>.</p><p><a rel="noopener noreferrer nofollow" href="http://thepeoplebehindthebooks.com/" target="_blank">http://thepeoplebehindthebooks.com/</a></p><p></p><hr /><p>🧾Need help with your taxes?<a rel="noopener noreferrer nofollow" href="https://www.y10tax.com/" target="_blank"> https://www.y10tax.com/</a></p><hr /><p></p>no00:44:2015Episode 5: Software Engineer to AI Accounting with Helen Hastingsfull<![CDATA[Episode 4: From IRS Agent to Taxpayer Representative with Michael Raanan]]>In this episode we meet Michael Raanan, a former IRS revenue officer turned tax representation expert. Michael shares his journey from working at the IRS to starting his own practice, emphasizing the importance of education in the tax field. He discusses the challenges taxpayers face, the misconceptions about the IRS, and the need for proper guidance. The conversation also touches on the future of the tax profession, the role of technology, and the significance of specialization in accounting.

Connect with Michael!

💼LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/michael-raanan/

🌐https://landmarktaxgroup.com/

🌐https://irsvideos.com/

📬Signup to receive the exclusive show Newsletter:

http://eepurl.com/jr0BrM

🤝Connect with Yehuda:

🐦X: https://x.com/Y10Tax

💼LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/yehuda-tenenbaum/

✉️Want to join the show? Send me an email @ thepeoplebehindthebooks@gmail.com.

http://thepeoplebehindthebooks.com/

🧾Need help with your taxes? https://www.y10tax.com/

Chapters

00:00 Introduction to Michael Raanan
01:56 Michael's Journey to the IRS
06:02 Training and Experience at the IRS
12:09 Field Calls and Taxpayer Interactions
18:03 Challenges Faced by Taxpayers
21:53 The Importance of Tax Education
25:58 Transitioning from IRS to Tax Education
27:32 Understanding IRS Resolutions
28:41 Transitioning from IRS to Private Practice
30:48 Building Client Relationships
31:40 The Importance of Tax Representation
33:16 Identifying Tax Relief Scams
35:22 The Need for Ethical Tax Professionals
36:42 The Impact of IRS Issues on Personal Lives
38:41 Firm Structure and Services Offered
40:29 Educational Initiatives for Taxpayers
42:27 Continuing Education for Tax Professionals
44:01 The Future of Tax and Accounting
48:34 Rapid Fire Questions

]]>3c191d27-420b-46ca-8738-ef45347ec523Fri, 26 Dec 2025 13:15:00 GMT<p>In this episode we meet Michael Raanan, a former IRS revenue officer turned tax representation expert. Michael shares his journey from working at the IRS to starting his own practice, emphasizing the importance of education in the tax field. He discusses the challenges taxpayers face, the misconceptions about the IRS, and the need for proper guidance. The conversation also touches on the future of the tax profession, the role of technology, and the significance of specialization in accounting.</p><p></p><p>Connect with Michael!</p><p></p><p>💼LinkedIn: <a rel="noopener noreferrer nofollow" href="https://www.linkedin.com/in/michael-raanan/" target="_blank">https://www.linkedin.com/in/michael-raanan/</a></p><p></p><p>🌐<a rel="noopener noreferrer nofollow" href="https://landmarktaxgroup.com/" target="_blank">https://landmarktaxgroup.com/</a></p><p>🌐<a rel="noopener noreferrer nofollow" href="https://irsvideos.com/" target="_blank">https://irsvideos.com/</a></p><p></p><p>📬Signup to receive the exclusive show Newsletter:</p><p><a rel="noopener noreferrer nofollow" href="http://eepurl.com/jr0BrM" target="_blank">http://eepurl.com/jr0BrM</a></p><p>🤝Connect with Yehuda:</p><p>🐦X:<a rel="noopener noreferrer nofollow" href="https://x.com/Y10Tax" target="_blank"> https://x.com/Y10Tax</a></p><p>💼LinkedIn:<a rel="noopener noreferrer nofollow" href="https://www.linkedin.com/in/yehuda-tenenbaum/" target="_blank"> https://www.linkedin.com/in/yehuda-tenenbaum/</a></p><p>✉️Want to join the show? Send me an email @ <a rel="noopener noreferrer nofollow" href="mailto:thepeoplebehindthebooks@gmail.com" target="_blank">thepeoplebehindthebooks@gmail.com</a>.</p><p><a rel="noopener noreferrer nofollow" href="http://thepeoplebehindthebooks.com/" target="_blank">http://thepeoplebehindthebooks.com/</a></p><p></p><hr /><p>🧾Need help with your taxes?<a rel="noopener noreferrer nofollow" href="https://www.y10tax.com/" target="_blank"> https://www.y10tax.com/</a></p><hr /><h2>Chapters</h2><p>00:00 Introduction to Michael Raanan<br />01:56 Michael's Journey to the IRS<br />06:02 Training and Experience at the IRS<br />12:09 Field Calls and Taxpayer Interactions<br />18:03 Challenges Faced by Taxpayers<br />21:53 The Importance of Tax Education<br />25:58 Transitioning from IRS to Tax Education<br />27:32 Understanding IRS Resolutions<br />28:41 Transitioning from IRS to Private Practice<br />30:48 Building Client Relationships<br />31:40 The Importance of Tax Representation<br />33:16 Identifying Tax Relief Scams<br />35:22 The Need for Ethical Tax Professionals<br />36:42 The Impact of IRS Issues on Personal Lives<br />38:41 Firm Structure and Services Offered<br />40:29 Educational Initiatives for Taxpayers<br />42:27 Continuing Education for Tax Professionals<br />44:01 The Future of Tax and Accounting<br />48:34 Rapid Fire Questions</p>no00:51:41Episode 4: From IRS Agent to Taxpayer Representative with Michael Raananfull<![CDATA[Episode 3: Empowering Tax Pros with AI - A Conversation with Jack Mao]]>In this episode we meet Jack Mao, an enrolled agent and tax professional with a diverse background in tax preparation, technology, and community service. Jack shares his journey from coding in high school to running his own tax firm and co-founding an AI tax research software called Accordance. The conversation explores the evolving landscape of taxation, the impact of AI on the industry, and the importance of the human element in tax preparation. Jack also shares inspiring stories of how he has helped clients navigate complex tax situations, emphasizing the life-changing potential of effective tax assistance.

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Connect with Jack!

💼LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/jackwmao/

Check out Jack’s company, Accordance!

🌐https://accordance.com/

📬Signup to receive the exclusive show Newsletter:

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🤝Connect with Yehuda:

🐦X: https://x.com/Y10Tax

💼LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/yehuda-tenenbaum/

✉️Want to join the show? Send me an email @ thepeoplebehindthebooks@gmail.com.

http://thepeoplebehindthebooks.com/

🧾Need help with your taxes? https://www.y10tax.com/

Chapters

00:00 Introduction to Jack Mao

02:46 Jack's Journey into Taxation

09:03 Starting a VITA Site

11:16 Current Firm Structure and Future Plans

13:00 The Role of Technology in Tax Preparation

18:51 The Future of AI in Taxation

28:04 The Human Element in Taxation

40:59 Rapid Fire Questions and Closing Thoughts

]]>110bb89a-bbe3-42cc-b7af-d670399fb455Fri, 12 Dec 2025 13:55:18 GMT<p>In this episode we meet Jack Mao, an enrolled agent and tax professional with a diverse background in tax preparation, technology, and community service. Jack shares his journey from coding in high school to running his own tax firm and co-founding an AI tax research software called Accordance. The conversation explores the evolving landscape of taxation, the impact of AI on the industry, and the importance of the human element in tax preparation. Jack also shares inspiring stories of how he has helped clients navigate complex tax situations, emphasizing the life-changing potential of effective tax assistance.</p><p></p><p>⭐Signup for TaxDome today and get 30 days added to your subscription for free!</p><p><a rel="noopener noreferrer nofollow" href="https://partners.taxdome.com/v7hy9" target="_blank">https://partners.taxdome.com/v7hy9</a></p><p></p><hr /><p>Connect with Jack!</p><p>💼LinkedIn: <a rel="noopener noreferrer nofollow" href="https://www.linkedin.com/in/jackwmao/" target="_blank">https://www.linkedin.com/in/jackwmao/</a></p><p>Check out Jack’s company, Accordance!</p><p>🌐<a rel="noopener noreferrer nofollow" href="https://accordance.com/" target="_blank">https://accordance.com/</a></p><hr /><p>📬Signup to receive the exclusive show Newsletter:</p><p><a rel="noopener noreferrer nofollow" href="http://eepurl.com/jr0BrM" target="_blank">http://eepurl.com/jr0BrM</a></p><hr /><p>🤝Connect with Yehuda:</p><p>🐦X:<a rel="noopener noreferrer nofollow" href="https://x.com/Y10Tax" target="_blank"> https://x.com/Y10Tax</a></p><p>💼LinkedIn:<a rel="noopener noreferrer nofollow" href="https://www.linkedin.com/in/yehuda-tenenbaum/" target="_blank"> https://www.linkedin.com/in/yehuda-tenenbaum/</a></p><p>✉️Want to join the show? Send me an email @ <a rel="noopener noreferrer nofollow" href="mailto:thepeoplebehindthebooks@gmail.com" target="_blank">thepeoplebehindthebooks@gmail.com</a>.</p><p><a rel="noopener noreferrer nofollow" href="http://thepeoplebehindthebooks.com/" target="_blank">http://thepeoplebehindthebooks.com/</a></p><hr /><p>🧾Need help with your taxes?<a rel="noopener noreferrer nofollow" href="https://www.y10tax.com/" target="_blank"> https://www.y10tax.com/</a></p><hr /><p>Chapters</p><p>00:00 Introduction to Jack Mao</p><p>02:46 Jack's Journey into Taxation</p><p>09:03 Starting a VITA Site</p><p>11:16 Current Firm Structure and Future Plans</p><p>13:00 The Role of Technology in Tax Preparation</p><p>18:51 The Future of AI in Taxation</p><p>28:04 The Human Element in Taxation</p><p>40:59 Rapid Fire Questions and Closing Thoughts</p>no00:43:56Episode 3: Empowering Tax Pros with AI - A Conversation with Jack Maofull<![CDATA[Episode 2: From Professor to Tax Professional with Jeremy Wells]]>In this episode, Jeremy Wells, an Enrolled Agent and CPA, shares his journey from a small town in Kentucky to becoming a successful tax professional and firm owner. He discusses his early life, education, and the transition from academia to accounting. Jeremy highlights the challenges he faced while starting his tax firm and emphasizes the importance of networking and building client relationships. He also talks about the evolution of his firm, his passion for podcasting, and the significance of sharing knowledge within the tax community.

⭐Signup for TaxDome today and get 30 days added to your subscription for free!

https://partners.taxdome.com/v7hy9

Connect with Jeremy!

🌐https://www.jwells.tax/

🌐https://www.steadfastbookkeeping.com/

🐦X: https://x.com/JWellsTax

💼LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/jwellstax

📬Signup to receive the exclusive show Newsletter:

http://eepurl.com/jr0BrM

🤝Connect with Yehuda:

🐦X: https://x.com/Y10Tax

💼LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/yehuda-tenenbaum/

✉️Want to join the show? Send me an email @ thepeoplebehindthebooks@gmail.com

http://thepeoplebehindthebooks.com/

🧾Need help with your taxes? https://www.y10tax.com/

Chapters

00:00 Introduction to the Journey

01:36 Early Life and Education

10:04 Transitioning to Accounting

17:32 Establishing a Tax Firm

22:57 Becoming an EA and CPA

27:09 The Importance of Networking and Community

29:11 The Role of Personal Connections in Accounting

38:42 The Journey to Partnership and Firm Merger

43:55 Building a Cohesive Team and Firm Culture

52:09 The Future of the Tax Profession and Opportunities

]]>a62b8b73-73a7-4a26-8395-59ec7912304bFri, 28 Nov 2025 13:00:00 GMT<p>In this episode, Jeremy Wells, an Enrolled Agent and CPA, shares his journey from a small town in Kentucky to becoming a successful tax professional and firm owner. He discusses his early life, education, and the transition from academia to accounting. Jeremy highlights the challenges he faced while starting his tax firm and emphasizes the importance of networking and building client relationships. He also talks about the evolution of his firm, his passion for podcasting, and the significance of sharing knowledge within the tax community.</p><p></p><p>⭐Signup for TaxDome today and get 30 days added to your subscription for free!</p><p><a rel="noopener noreferrer nofollow" href="https://partners.taxdome.com/v7hy9" target="_blank">https://partners.taxdome.com/v7hy9</a></p><p></p><p>Connect with Jeremy!</p><p>🌐<a rel="noopener noreferrer nofollow" href="https://www.jwells.tax/" target="_blank">https://www.jwells.tax/</a></p><p>🌐<a rel="noopener noreferrer nofollow" href="https://www.steadfastbookkeeping.com/" target="_blank">https://www.steadfastbookkeeping.com/</a></p><p>🐦X: <a rel="noopener noreferrer nofollow" href="https://x.com/JWellsTax" target="_blank">https://x.com/JWellsTax</a></p><p>💼LinkedIn:<a rel="noopener noreferrer nofollow" href="https://www.linkedin.com/in/micha-siegel/" target="_blank"> </a><a rel="noopener noreferrer nofollow" href="https://www.linkedin.com/in/jwellstax" target="_blank">https://www.linkedin.com/in/jwellstax</a></p><p></p><hr /><p>📬Signup to receive the exclusive show Newsletter:</p><p><a rel="noopener noreferrer nofollow" href="http://eepurl.com/jr0BrM" target="_blank">http://eepurl.com/jr0BrM</a></p><hr /><p>🤝Connect with Yehuda:</p><p>🐦X:<a rel="noopener noreferrer nofollow" href="https://x.com/Y10Tax" target="_blank"> https://x.com/Y10Tax</a></p><p>💼LinkedIn:<a rel="noopener noreferrer nofollow" href="https://www.linkedin.com/in/yehuda-tenenbaum/" target="_blank"> https://www.linkedin.com/in/yehuda-tenenbaum/</a></p><p>✉️Want to join the show? Send me an email @ <a rel="noopener noreferrer nofollow" href="mailto:thepeoplebehindthebooks@gmail.com" target="_blank">thepeoplebehindthebooks@gmail.com</a></p><p><a rel="noopener noreferrer nofollow" href="http://thepeoplebehindthebooks.com/" target="_blank">http://thepeoplebehindthebooks.com/</a></p><hr /><p>🧾Need help with your taxes?<a rel="noopener noreferrer nofollow" href="https://www.y10tax.com/" target="_blank"> https://www.y10tax.com/</a></p><hr /><p>Chapters</p><p>00:00 Introduction to the Journey</p><p>01:36 Early Life and Education</p><p>10:04 Transitioning to Accounting</p><p>17:32 Establishing a Tax Firm</p><p>22:57 Becoming an EA and CPA</p><p>27:09 The Importance of Networking and Community</p><p>29:11 The Role of Personal Connections in Accounting</p><p>38:42 The Journey to Partnership and Firm Merger</p><p>43:55 Building a Cohesive Team and Firm Culture</p><p>52:09 The Future of the Tax Profession and Opportunities</p>no00:57:432Episode 2: From Professor to Tax Professional with Jeremy Wellsfull<![CDATA[The People Behind the Books Trailer]]>Welcome to the People Behind the Books, a show where we explore the human side the tax and accounting world.

]]>4e79693d-c1e7-4d59-83ce-064b8b8cf0fcFri, 14 Nov 2025 19:50:11 GMT<p>Welcome to the People Behind the Books, a show where we explore the human side the tax and accounting world.</p>no00:01:38The People Behind the Books Trailertrailer<![CDATA[Episode 1: Educating the Next Generation with Micha Siegel]]>In this episode, Yehuda is joined by Micha Siegel, CPA, CFP®, EA, who shares his unconventional journey from underachieving student to warehouse worker to triple-credentialed tax professional and founder of TaxCentric. Micha opens up about discovering accounting later in life, navigating big-firm culture, surviving mergers, and why he ultimately walked away to build a firm rooted in accessibility, education, and opportunity.

⭐Signup for TaxDome today and get 30 days added to your subscription for free!

https://partners.taxdome.com/v7hy9

Connect with Micha!

🌐TaxCentric.com

🐦X: https://x.com/Micha_Siegel

💼LinkedIn (Personal): https://www.linkedin.com/in/micha-siegel/

🏢LinkedIn (TaxCentric): https://www.linkedin.com/company/taxcentric

📬Signup to receive the exclusive show Newsletter:

http://eepurl.com/jr0BrM

Subscribe on all platforms:

🎵Spotify: https://open.spotify.com/show/65vxpzaIkOQmIZA5ermkoY?si=434bdd36d51242d2

▶️YouTube: https://youtube.com/playlist?list=PLUQgvikPXX_LCmHrbCC9kimRWwdGnVroQ&si=XCsU9sumBtdSjdGg

🤝Connect with Yehuda:

🐦X: https://x.com/Y10Tax

💼LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/yehuda-tenenbaum/

✉️Want to join the show? Send me an email @ thepeoplebehindthebooks@gmail.com.

🧾Need help with your taxes? https://www.y10tax.com/

⏱️Chapters:

00:00 Introduction to the Journey

03:10 Discovering Accounting: A Unique Path

06:06 The CPA Journey: Credentials and Experiences

08:57 The Role of Financial Planning in Accounting

11:49 Navigating the Challenges of CPA Firms

14:57 The Impact of Mergers and Acquisitions

18:05 Launching an Apprenticeship Program

20:55 Creating a New Firm: Vision and Values

24:06 Catering to the Average Individual

26:46 The Future of Tax and Financial Planning

33:58 The Challenges of Self-Prepared Tax Returns

36:26 State-Specific Tax Complexities

37:38 Navigating IRS Penalties and Notices

40:39 Transitioning to Independent Tax Practice

46:02 Launching a Tax Firm: The Journey Begins

49:10 Innovating Financial Planning Services

51:35 Implementing an Apprenticeship Program

56:11 The Future of Tax Services and Industry Trends

]]>9cc9162a-2ca5-43a1-8e47-eb19449bd166Fri, 14 Nov 2025 01:38:07 GMT<p>In this episode, Yehuda is joined by Micha Siegel, CPA, CFP®, EA, who shares his unconventional journey from underachieving student to warehouse worker to triple-credentialed tax professional and founder of TaxCentric. Micha opens up about discovering accounting later in life, navigating big-firm culture, surviving mergers, and why he ultimately walked away to build a firm rooted in accessibility, education, and opportunity.</p><p></p><p>⭐Signup for TaxDome today and get 30 days added to your subscription for free!</p><p><a rel="noopener noreferrer nofollow" href="https://partners.taxdome.com/v7hy9" target="_blank">https://partners.taxdome.com/v7hy9</a></p><p></p><p>Connect with Micha!</p><p>🌐<a rel="noopener noreferrer nofollow" href="TaxCentric.com" target="_blank">TaxCentric.com</a></p><p>🐦X: <a rel="noopener noreferrer nofollow" href="https://x.com/Micha_Siegel" target="_blank">https://x.com/Micha_Siegel</a></p><p>💼LinkedIn (Personal): <a rel="noopener noreferrer nofollow" href="https://www.linkedin.com/in/micha-siegel/" target="_blank">https://www.linkedin.com/in/micha-siegel/</a></p><p>🏢LinkedIn (TaxCentric): <a rel="noopener noreferrer nofollow" href="https://www.linkedin.com/company/taxcentric" target="_blank">https://www.linkedin.com/company/taxcentric</a></p><hr /><p>📬Signup to receive the exclusive show Newsletter:</p><p><a rel="noopener noreferrer nofollow" href="http://eepurl.com/jr0BrM" target="_blank">http://eepurl.com/jr0BrM</a></p><hr /><p>Subscribe on all platforms:</p><p>🎵Spotify: <a rel="noopener noreferrer nofollow" href="https://open.spotify.com/show/65vxpzaIkOQmIZA5ermkoY?si=434bdd36d51242d2" target="_blank">https://open.spotify.com/show/65vxpzaIkOQmIZA5ermkoY?si=434bdd36d51242d2</a></p><p></p><p>▶️YouTube: <a rel="noopener noreferrer nofollow" href="https://youtube.com/playlist?list=PLUQgvikPXX_LCmHrbCC9kimRWwdGnVroQ&amp;si=XCsU9sumBtdSjdGg" target="_blank">https://youtube.com/playlist?list=PLUQgvikPXX_LCmHrbCC9kimRWwdGnVroQ&amp;si=XCsU9sumBtdSjdGg</a></p><p></p><hr /><p>🤝Connect with Yehuda:</p><p>🐦X: <a rel="noopener noreferrer nofollow" href="https://x.com/Y10Tax" target="_blank">https://x.com/Y10Tax</a></p><p>💼LinkedIn: <a rel="noopener noreferrer nofollow" href="https://www.linkedin.com/in/yehuda-tenenbaum/" target="_blank">https://www.linkedin.com/in/yehuda-tenenbaum/</a></p><p></p><p>✉️Want to join the show? Send me an email @ <a rel="noopener noreferrer nofollow" href="mailto:thepeoplebehindthebooks@gmail.com" target="_blank">thepeoplebehindthebooks@gmail.com</a>.</p><hr /><p>🧾Need help with your taxes? <a rel="noopener noreferrer nofollow" href="https://www.y10tax.com/" target="_blank">https://www.y10tax.com/</a></p><p></p><hr /><p>⏱️Chapters:</p><p>00:00 Introduction to the Journey</p><p>03:10 Discovering Accounting: A Unique Path</p><p>06:06 The CPA Journey: Credentials and Experiences</p><p>08:57 The Role of Financial Planning in Accounting</p><p>11:49 Navigating the Challenges of CPA Firms</p><p>14:57 The Impact of Mergers and Acquisitions</p><p>18:05 Launching an Apprenticeship Program</p><p>20:55 Creating a New Firm: Vision and Values</p><p>24:06 Catering to the Average Individual</p><p>26:46 The Future of Tax and Financial Planning</p><p>33:58 The Challenges of Self-Prepared Tax Returns</p><p>36:26 State-Specific Tax Complexities</p><p>37:38 Navigating IRS Penalties and Notices</p><p>40:39 Transitioning to Independent Tax Practice</p><p>46:02 Launching a Tax Firm: The Journey Begins</p><p>49:10 Innovating Financial Planning Services</p><p>51:35 Implementing an Apprenticeship Program</p><p>56:11 The Future of Tax Services and Industry Trends</p><p></p>no01:03:181Episode 1: Educating the Next Generation with Micha Siegelfull