When rates rise, stress follows - and for small business owners, that can spell trouble. So, who's in your corner when things get tough?

In this episode, Jeff and Sara sit down with Sean Kouplen, CEO and Chairman of Regent Bank, to unpack what rising interest rates, inflation, and regulatory shifts mean for small businesses - and why the relationship you have with your bank could make or break you in uncertain times.

From navigating post-COVID economic realities to building a culture where people feel loved (yes, even at a bank), Sean shares the mindset, systems, and core values that drive one of the region's most distinctive financial institutions.

If you're a business owner, banker, or CPA looking for more than just transactional advice, this episode is for you.

In this episode, Jeff and Sara sit down with CCK partner Aaron Spoon to discuss the real concerns facing business decision-makers. They cover a range of topics, including rising interest rates, workforce challenges, estate planning, and bonus depreciation. The conversation explores how leading business owners are navigating uncertainty and making decisions calmly, emphasizing that taxes should not be the primary reason for any strategic move.

Whether you’re leading a company or advising one, this open and honest discussion offers practical insights on how to remain grounded, adaptable, and focused on what truly matters.

In Episode 2 of "Two CPA's in the Mic," hosts Jeff Fable and Sara Mays dive into the world of the CPA exam with their guest, Keith Wigner. They chat about how the exam has changed over the years and share their own experiences with the preparation journey. Keith, who has a pretty unique path to becoming a CPA, opens up about his background and the challenges he faced along the way.

The trio discusses their study strategies and the emotional ups and downs of tackling the exam, stressing how important it is to have a solid support system of family and friends. They each reflect on what passing the CPA exam means to them, highlighting it as a big personal win after all their hard work. The episode wraps up with some encouraging words for anyone thinking about taking the CPA exam, reminding listeners that resilience and community support are key to success. Want to connect with us? Email us at podcast@cckcpa.com.

New episodes drop every Thursday - subscribe now!

In Episode 3 of 2 CPAs and the Mic, hosts Jeff Frable and Sara Mays dive into the topic of CliftonStrengths , exploring what it is and how it can be utilized in business to enhance productivity, profitability, and team interactions. They are joined by Kristie Porter, a long-time team member at CCK, who shares her extensive experience and insights on the subject. Kristie discusses her diverse role at the firm, her journey with CliftonStrengths®, and how it has been integrated into CCK's culture to foster individual strengths and improve team dynamics. The conversation highlights the importance of understanding and leveraging personal strengths for business success and offers practical advice for implementing CliftonStrengths® in any organization. Want to connect with us? Email us at podcast@cckcpa.com.

New episodes drop every Thursday - subscribe now!

Welcome to the debut episode of 2 CPAs and The Mic!
In this debut episode, Jeff Frable and Sara Mays uncover what makes CCK Strategies different from your typical CPA firm. Spoiler alert: it’s not all spreadsheets and tax codes!
Jeff and Sara share their journeys into the CPA world, the firm’s untraditional culture, and why this podcast exists - to make business tax planning, financial strategy, and accounting insights unintimidating and accessible. Expect 80s and 90s pop culture references, plenty of laughs, and real-world business advice for entrepreneurs, successful business owners, and future accounting professionals looking for a fresh take on the profession.
Want to connect with us? Email us at podcast@cckcpa.com. Plus, if you are our first listener to email, you’ll score a CCK-branded Tumblr signed by the hosts! First listener who is not part of the CCK Team!
New episodes drop every Thursday - subscribe now!