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

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

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

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

Tony Harcourt CEO & Co-Founder of WorkGuru

Tony Harcourt returns to chat with Heather about WorkGuru’s recent product updates, the challenges facing SMEs, and the role of automation and integrations in improving day-to-day operations.

Summary

Today I’m speaking with Tony Harcourt CEO & Co-Founder of WorkGuru

WorkGuru is a Project Management solution tailored for SMEs in manufacturing, construction, engineering, and fabrication.

In this episode, we talk about . . .

WorkGuru Highlights:

• Celebrating 7 years.
• Focus on automating business workflows and enhancing project visibility.

Feature Releases Discussed:

• Workflows Engine: Automate project actions (e.g. invoice alerts, follow-ups).
• Scheduling Optimization: Drag-and-drop team allocation with load visibility.
• Gantt Charts: Visual project timelines with logical dependency control.
• Mobile App Overhaul: New UI with mobile-friendly features including receipt upload.

Integrations:

• Accounting: Xero, QuickBooks, MYOB
• OCR & Approvals: EasyBills (with PO matching)
• Payments: Pinch Payments (GuruPay)
• Task Management: Asana (two-way sync)
• Document Storage: SuiteFiles, Dropbox, Google Drive
• Payroll/HR: Tanda integration
• E-commerce & CRM: New integrations with Shopify and HubSpot

Tony’s Take on Tech:

• Clear distinction between automation (repeatable tasks) and AI (tool for speed & code support).
• AI is useful but not foolproof—best as a developer accelerator.

Heather & Tony Discuss:

• Why advisors should niche and partner with robust platforms like WorkGuru.
• The importance of support and access—WorkGuru runs live drop-in support twice a week.

Upcoming at Xerocon 2025:

• Branded swag, travel prize giveaway, live demos at the WorkGuru booth.
• Mid-con party on Emporium Hotel Lina rooftop with Brisbane-based apps.

Register here : https://lu.ma/qxj8umqt

Contact details:

Tony Harcourt : https://www.linkedin.com/in/tony-harcourt/

W: https://workguru.io/

Accounting Apps newsletter: http://accountingapps.io/

Accounting Apps Mastermind: https://www.facebook.com/groups/XeroMasterMind

LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/HeatherSmithAU/

YouTube Channel: https://www.youtube.com/ANISEConsulting

X: https://twitter.com/HeatherSmithAU

Your clients are using ChatGPT.

Your clients are going to try to do their accounts and their tax using ChatGPT.

Your clients are going to ask you questions generated from ChatGPT.

Your clients are going to ask you why you have not deducted THIS because ChatGPT suggested it.

Your clients are going to come to you with “the work finished by ChatGPT” and they are going to ask you to give it a quick look over and remind you that you should not charge them as much because ChatGPT has done the bulk of the work.

AND how are you going to react to this???

Firstly, be AWARE that it’s happening.

It’s good that your clients are taking an interest, and doing some of their own research.

REMIND clients that ChatGPT can make mistakes, and that important information needs to be checked. “That’s a helpful starting point, but it’s not always right, especially for tax.”

ChatGPT can help clients understand terminology, accounting concepts, simplify language, and help prep them for a meeting.

ChatGPT is not a professional accountant or bookkeeper. It may not know the latest tax legislation, may draw on international information, or suggest non-compliant responses.

ChatGPT rarely understands the nuances of a client situation, and has a tendency to oversimplify things, and be overconfident in its statements, as if they are facts.

I recall when I was pregnant, turning up to the Doctor's office with a large hardcover copy of Dr Miriam Stoppard’s Pregnancy Book, filled with post-it notes of my hand written questions. If the Doctor had been reluctant to answer my questions, then I probably would have found a new Doctor.

When your client comes to you with ChatGPT responses, how are you going to respond?

You could be prepared to suggest that ChatGPT can be a helpful tool, but it's not a substitute for the knowledge and judgment of a qualified bookkeeper or accountant.

Highlight where ChatGPT can be used, and where it’s not so good. Remind them that it needs to be triple fact checked! You could highlight that in some areas it could save them money, but in other areas such as reviewing ChatGPT responses may lead to inefficiencies and actually cost them more money.

Contact details:

Accounting Apps newsletter: http://accountingapps.io/

Accounting Apps Mastermind: https://www.facebook.com/groups/XeroMasterMind

LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/HeatherSmithAU/

YouTube Channel: https://www.youtube.com/ANISEConsulting

X: https://twitter.com/HeatherSmithAU

Today I’m speaking with Miquel Palet, Founder of GetInvoice

Miquel Palet is a Barcelona-based entrepreneur and product leader, known for founding Ucademy, an edtech platform, and GetInvoice, a tool for automating invoice retrieval from emails and other sources. With a background in engineering from Universitat Politècnica de Catalunya, Miquel combines technical expertise with a passion for simplifying business processes. His ventures reflect a commitment to innovation and user-centric solutions.

GetInvoice is an AI-driven invoice automation software that automatically retrieves and processes invoices and receipts from emails and web portals, including Amazon and Google Ads. We extract all invoice data and integrate with accounting tools like QuickBooks, Xero or Business Central, and other tools like Google Drive or Google Sheet, to automatically forward all processed invoices. GetInvoice is already used by more than +1,000 freelancers, startups, and small businesses around the world that are looking to automate their pre-accounting work and save +10 hours every week.

In this episode, we talk about . . .

· Guest: Miquel Palet, founder of Get Invoice and co-founder of Ucademy · Background: Engineering and entrepreneurship from Barcelona · Get Invoice: AI-driven software automating invoice retrieval from emails and portals like Amazon & Google Integrations: Works with Xero, QuickBooks, Business Central, Google Drive & Sheets · Origin Story: Born out of a pain point at Ucademy while scaling fast · Market Focus: Small businesses (10–200 people) in Europe and the US · Milestone: Bootstrapped growth reaching and surpassing $10K ARR within 6 months · Security: Uses secure Google/Outlook APIs with strict access limitations · Growth Strategy: Lean, product-focused, and quick iteration · Fun Fact: Inspired by Spotify Wrapped to create an email analytics campaign · Language: Currently English-only despite Spanish roots · Reading: Balances business books with classical literature like The Iliad

Contact details:

Get Invoice https://www.get-invoice.com

Miquel Palet https://linkedin.com/in/miquelpalet

Miquel Pale https://x.com/paletmiki

Accounting Apps newsletter: http://HeatherSmithAU.COM

Accounting Apps Mastermind: https://www.facebook.com/groups/XeroMasterMind

LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/HeatherSmithAU/

YouTube Channel: https://www.youtube.com/ANISEConsulting

X: https://twitter.com/HeatherSmithAU