AI for Accountants: Are You Missing This Shift? w/ Mary Delaney

About this episode

Roger Knecht and Mary Delaney, CEO of Karbon, discuss the cultural shift of AI in accounting. Learn how to leverage AI-powered accounting software and transform your firm's operations. This episode offers practical advice for accounting professionals looking to build premier firms and embrace technological advancements.

In This Episode:

00:00 Introduction to Karbon & AI in Accounting 04:03 AI: A Cultural Shift for Firms 09:44 Practical AI Applications in Accounting 14:20 AI's Role in Advisory & Value-Based Pricing 19:24 Impactful Client Relationships: Joe's Story 26:49 Thriving in Accounting: Mindset & Future 35:54 Gratitude and Closing Thoughts

Key Takeaways:

• Leverage existing software partners to integrate AI into your accounting practice.

• Cultivate a culture of AI adoption within your firm through training and leadership.

• Transition from historical analysis to forward-thinking CFO advisory services for clients.

• Understand and communicate your value to clients to implement value-based pricing effectively.

• Prioritize client relationships and proactive communication to make a meaningful impact on small businesses.

Featured Quotes:

• "AI doesn't just change the tools or technology in the firm. It changes habits, expectations, roles, and the defined outcomes of the people that are using it." — Mary Delaney

• "The accounting bookkeeper community people believe that all boats rise together, that there's a reason to help others." — Mary Delaney

• "We are powered by small businesses. To me, the accounting and bookkeeping profession is really the power behind small businesses." — Mary Delaney

Behind the Story:

Mary Delaney, CEO of Karbon, shares her vision for the accounting profession, emphasizing the critical role of AI in moving beyond transactional tasks to a more advisory, client-facing approach. She illustrates this with stories of accountants making profound differences in their clients' lives, highlighting the relational aspect of the profession. The discussion underscores the importance of leadership in driving cultural change and embracing technology to enhance efficiency and client value.

Conclusion:

Thank you for joining us for another episode of Building the Premier Accounting Firm with Roger Knecht. For more information on how you can establish your own accounting firm and take control of your time and income, call 435-344-2060 or schedule an appointment to connect with Roger's team here.

Sponsors:

Universal Accounting Center

• Helping accounting professionals confidently and competently offer quality accounting services to get paid what they are worth.

Offers:

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Karbon isn't just another tool—it's embedding AI into the very infrastructure of how accounting firms work. It simplifies daily tasks, reduces manual work, and frees up teams to focus on higher-value advisory services. Listeners can learn more or book a demo at karbonhq.com.

Download Karbon's 2025 State of AI in Accounting Report to explore how AI is transforming accounting firms and where the biggest opportunities lie. (https://karbonhq.com/resources/state-of-ai-accounting-report-2025/)

Download Karbon's 2025 Practice Excellence Report for Accounting Firms for a roadmap that guides accounting firms on their journey to practice excellence. (https://karbonhq.com/practice-excellence/)

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For more information on how you can apply these principles to start and build your accounting, bookkeeping & tax business please visit us at www.universalaccountingschool.com or call us at 8012653777