Accounting Apps Podcast

Guest: Daniel Little, Co-founder and CEO of Link My Books

What happens when an entrepreneurial e-commerce seller discovers that inaccurate bookkeeping could derail the sale of his business? For Daniel Little, that realisation helped spark the creation of Link My Books, an automation platform designed to simplify e-commerce accounting.

In this episode of the Accounting Apps podcast, Heather Smith speaks with Daniel about his remarkable journey from selling Coca-Cola from his school locker to building and selling multimillion-pound e-commerce businesses, and eventually co-founding Link My Books.

Together, they explore the complexities of reconciling...

Reporting from SuiteWorld and AIWorld 2026 in Las Vegas, Heather Smith shares insights from Jack Harrington, Head of Technical and Performance Partnerships at Oracle Red Bull Racing, and Matt Lord, Group Technology Director at SailGP. The discussion covers race strategy, equipment maintenance and talent development, alongside Heather’s question: with so much technology involved, where does that leave a young person dreaming of becoming a sporting superstar?

Key points

AI and automation are changing accounting, but the bigger opportunity is not simply automating individual tasks. In this episode of the Accounting Apps Podcast, I speak with John Munden, Chief Strategy Officer at Cloud Office, about rethinking workflows, connecting fragmented data and preparing accounting firms for a world where more compliance work happens automatically.

We explore why successful technology adoption starts with understanding the problem you are trying to solve. John shares his perspective on change management, including mapping workflows before introducing new software, involving the team in the process and developing internal champions who can support...

Are You Proud to Call Yourself an Accountant?

As AI and automation become increasingly embedded in accounting workflows, we spend a lot of time asking what technology can do. But perhaps there is another question worth exploring: what does using AI do to us as accountants and bookkeepers?

In this thought bubble episode of the Accounting Apps Podcast, I explore professional identity and why being proud to call yourself an accountant matters. Inspired by Professor Megan Hess’s work on accounting ethics, professional identity and the public interest, I consider how our connection to the profession influences sc...

Is AI Making Accountants Less Intelligent?

AI is helping accountants and bookkeepers work faster, automate repetitive tasks and reduce cognitive load. But as AI moves beyond calculation and automation into writing, analysing, explaining, brainstorming and reasoning, an interesting question emerges: what happens to the thinking skills we developed by doing those things ourselves?

In this episode of the Accounting Apps Podcast, I explore how AI may be changing the way accountants and bookkeepers think. I look at neuroplasticity, the “useful struggle” involved in developing expertise, and why professional judgement becomes even more important when AI can produce a po...

How a Monthly Calendar Audit Improves Productivity

When was the last time you looked back at your calendar and asked whether all those meetings, commitments and hours were actually a good use of your time?

In this episode of the Accounting Apps Podcast, I unpack the monthly calendar audit I use to understand where my time has gone, identify follow-ups that may have slipped through the cracks, and question activities that perhaps should not be there at all.

My process combines Google Workspace, Google Calendar, Google Apps Script and Google Sheets to turn a month...

Working overseas brings unexpected opportunities and challenges. Discover practical digital nomad lessons about connectivity, co-working spaces, travel, banking, medication, client meetings and making technology work anywhere.

Technology and business transformation are not simply about making businesses more efficient. They can also enable us to work differently and create more flexible lifestyles. In this episode of the Accounting Apps Podcast, I’m recording from a capsule hotel at Gatwick Airport after spending a month in England, and sharing some of the practical lessons I picked up while working and travelling abroad.

Digital nomading can sound wonderfully st...

Great client relationships start with curiosity. Discover how Louis Theroux’s interviewing techniques can help accountants listen deeply, ask simple questions and understand the person behind the numbers. Heather Smith and Alex Falcon Huerta explore lessons from Louis Theroux’s London Xerocon keynote.

What can accountants and bookkeepers learn from one of the world’s most recognisable interviewers? Quite a lot, as it turns out. In this episode of the Accounting Apps Podcast, I’m joined by Alex Falcon Huerta to unpack Louis Theroux’s Xerocon London keynote and explore how his interviewing techniques translate surprisingly well into clien...

Discover the biggest announcements from XeroCon London 2026, including Xero Force, Partner Hub, Smart Document Capture, AI-powered automation, and what's next for accountants.

At XeroCon London 2026, Xero unveiled a wave of AI-powered innovations designed to help accountants and bookkeepers work more efficiently while supporting the needs of increasingly complex businesses. In this episode, Heather Smith speaks with Diya Jolly, Chief Product and Technology Officer at Xero, about the company's latest product announcements, the thinking behind its AI strategy, and how these developments will shape the future of the Xero ecosystem.

The second quarter of 2026 has delivered another wave of innovation across the accounting technology landscape. In this episode, Heather Smith is joined by Tyler Caskey from The Bean Counters to unpack the recent product releases, AI developments, payroll changes, reporting enhancements, and practice management updates shaping the profession. Alongside practical commentary on the latest features from leading accounting platforms, they discuss cybersecurity lessons, the impact of industry layoffs, emerging AI-first accounting systems, and several standout apps that deserve attention. Whether you're an accountant, bookkeeper, advisor, or business owner, this episode offers practical insights to help you stay informed and...

Not every opportunity that lands in your inbox is the right fit. In this episode, Heather (me!) explores the concept of "handball referrals" and why passing opportunities to the right person can strengthen relationships, build trust, and create value across the accounting profession. Drawing on real-world examples from speaking engagements, networking experiences, and community involvement, she shares practical advice on becoming a thoughtful connector within your professional network.

Technology should make accounting firms more efficient, but many firms have accumulated layers of disconnected tools that create complexity rather than clarity. In this discussion, Heather Smith is joined by Tyler Caskey from The Bean Counters and John Munden from Cloud Office to explore how firms can simplify their technology stack, improve workflow visibility, reduce manual work and make better technology decisions.

Accounting technology leader Ben Richmond joins the podcast to discuss his remarkable journey from regional accounting practice in New Zealand to becoming President and CEO of WagePoint in Canada. Drawing on decades of experience across public practice, corporate finance, Xero’s international expansion and payroll technology, Ben shares lessons on leadership, customer relationships, change management and the future of accounting. The conversation explores how accountants can broaden their career horizons, embrace public speaking, leverage AI effectively and build more meaningful advisory relationships with clients. Ben also reflects on what it takes to grow software businesses across different countries and wh...

I sat down with Paul Wittich, General Manager APAC at Dext, to explore how the platform is evolving beyond document capture into a fully automated bookkeeping workflow. We discuss AI Assist, payments, underused features, pricing transparency and what 2026 looks like for the profession.

This episode is a personal and confronting reflection on how quickly even a cyberaware professional can lose control of a long-standing Gmail account. What began as a seemingly legitimate brand collaboration unfolded into a carefully orchestrated phishing attack that removed all security measures within seconds. The experience highlights how modern cybercrime blends patience, credibility signals, automation and psychological triggers to bypass even cautious users.

This episode explores how a Chartered Accountant can move beyond traditional finance roles to create meaningful community impact. Josh Hickford shares his journey from Big Four accounting and banking to founding a cancer support app and leading Taranaki Foundation. It is a conversation about resilience, technology, philanthropy and the evolving role of accountants in a digital world.

In this episode, I sit down with Trent Yesberg, founder of Twine Apps and director of Regional Business Services in Townsville. We explore the realities of subscription billing, SaaS development, and what AI means for accounting firms today. This conversation moves from practical billing frustrations to the future of automation in our profession.

The first quarter of 2026 has delivered an extraordinary wave of AI-powered enhancements, mid-market strategy shifts and workflow automation upgrades across the accounting technology ecosystem. This session, presented at the Sydney Accounting and Bookkeeping Expo, dives deep into what matters, what is hype, and where firms should pay attention.

In this episode, I share a practical and grounded introduction to the Second Brain concept, tailored specifically for accountants and bookkeepers. Originally delivered at the Sydney Accounting and Business Expo, this session explores how to better capture, organise and leverage the constant stream of information we face every day. If you are feeling overloaded, context switching constantly, or struggling to retrieve your best ideas when you need them, this conversation will resonate.

This special panel episode, recorded live at Accounting Business Expo, explores AI tools that are genuinely useful right now for accounting firms. With perspectives from firm owners and a software vendor, the discussion covers practical implementation, guardrails, and real-world results.

The Sydney Accounting & Business Expo 2026 was one of the most energised and well-attended events I have seen in years. AI dominated the conversation, AML reform is reshaping workflows, and innovation across practice management, tax research, onboarding and payments is accelerating fast.

This episode captures conversations directly from the expo floor. You will hear insights from keynote takeaways and interviews with founders, product leaders and firm owners building practical solutions for modern accounting firms.

This episode was recorded on the way to the Sydney Accounting & Business Expo, offering a candid and practical conversation about AI in practice, peer communities, vendor relationships and the evolving accounting profession in Australia.

This conversation highlights the importance...

A practical conversation, with Tyler Caskey, Dan Osborne and Heather Smith, hosted by John Munden, on how accounting firms can grow through better systems, small efficiency improvements and intentional technology adoption including AI, automation and advisory insights. Presented by Cloudoffis.

Cloud Office is an Australian cloud-based platform that helps accountants and auditors streamline SMSF audits, tax workpapers and compliance workflows.

Summary

Accounting firms are entering a new phase of growth where success is no longer measured only by revenue. In this discussion, we explore how modern practices are improving profitability, efficiency and lifestyle...

Fast-growing businesses eventually reach a point where their finance systems struggle to keep up. In this episode, CFO Anita Chow shares how Acusensus moved from a Xero and spreadsheet-based environment to a full ERP Oracle Netsuite platform to support rapid growth and international expansion.

The discussion explores what triggers the shift to ERP, the challenges of managing multiple entities and growing transaction volumes, and the benefits of having a scalable financial infrastructure. The move dramatically improved automation across key areas such as reporting, lease accounting, and financial consolidation while enabling the finance team to spend more time...

How do you modernise a family business when the older generation resists change? This episode explores emotional barriers, trust, and a practical tiny pilot approach to digital adoption.

Summary

In this episode, I explore the challenge of introducing new technology into long established family businesses. Inspired by a LinkedIn post from Tony Harcourt, we unpack why tech resistance is often emotional, not practical.

Key discussion points:

Cameron Anderson General Manager XBert

What does AI fluency really mean for accountants and bookkeepers? This episode explores governance, prompting frameworks, and practical AI use cases you can apply immediately.

Summary

In this episode, we explore AI fluency for accountants and bookkeepers and what it really means in practice. From governance to prompting frameworks, we unpack practical steps firms can take today.

AI is reshaping accounting roles, not replacing them. Explore what’s changing, emerging governance roles, and why strategic thinking and AI fluency matter more than ever.

Summary

As AI reshapes our profession, we're essentially seeing less demand for those routine tasks, a boom in strategic roles and new opportunities for those who understand the cross section between accounting and technology, so less routine, more strategy, more cross disciplinary. And today, I'd like to talk about what's changing in the roles, what's not changing in the roles, what new roles are emerging, and what accountants and bo...

Kyelie Baxter shares how AI is changing accounting firm workflows, boosting outputs, and freeing up capacity, while still needing strong guardrails and human judgment.

Summary

In this episode, Kylie Baxter discusses how artificial intelligence is transforming accounting firms, client expectations, and internal workflows, without replacing the human element.

Key discussion points include:

Heather shares insights from MYOB’s Australian Open event, exploring AI integration, Google Gemini tools, new MYOB Solo app for micro businesses, and the power of keyboard aesthetics.

Summary

In this episode, Heather Smith shares insights from her time at the Australian Open with MYOB, exploring how technology, AI, and workplace tools are reshaping the accounting world:

In the third of three instalments Heather Smith shares insights from TOACon 2025. She chats with industry leaders about business advisory, AI agents in accounting, community building, and embracing the future with purpose and relationships.

Summary

In this third instalment from TOACon 2025, Heather Smith explores the evolution of business advisory services and the powerful tech shaping the accounting profession.

Insights from TOACon 2025’s tech stream: AI, cybersecurity, client experience, and building resilient firms with smarter systems, featuring Practice Protect, AccountKit, and more.

Summary

In the second of three instalments Heather Smith explores highlights from TOACon 2025. Recorded at the luxurious Shangri-La Boracay, this episode dives into practical tools and strategies reshaping the accounting landscape.

Main Topics:

🌟 Customer Experience Strategy: Jason S Bradshaw on reducing client friction and defining your service promise.

🔐 Cybersecurity Deep Dive: Jenny Caune of Practice Protect on multi-layered security and sleep-at-night tech.

📊...

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.

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

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/

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 . . .

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.

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:

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:

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 . . .

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 . . .