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.

📊 Cloud App Report: Real usage data across 13 categories: what apps firms are actually using in 2025.

🔄 AccountKit Expansion: Matt Taylor from AccountKit on new features including reconciliations, integrations, and centralized workflows.

📈 Building a Business That Runs Without You: TOA Global founder Nick Sinclair on separating identity from business.

🧭 Truth in Leadership: Dom Thurbon on the fine line between experience and baggage, staying curious is key.

🏝️ Conference Culture & Community: Live insights from attendees on the power of connections, resilience, and hospitality.

Key Takeaways:

• Tech doesn’t build trust, clear communication does.
• Cybersecurity isn’t optional; it's foundational.
• Real-time app data beats outdated reviews: use the Cloud App Report.
• Centralised platforms like AccountKit are simplifying workflows.
• Leadership breakthroughs come from clarity, not complexity.

Heather Smith attended the TOACon 2025 conference as hosted media.

If you want to find out more about TOAGlobal please visit their website :toaglobal.com

If you want further information about anything covered in this podcast, please refer to the show notes: https://www.heathersmithsmallbusiness.com/blog/

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

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.

• Insights from Dr. Shadé Zahrai on mindset, adversity, and recognising your own value.
• Interview with Mariel (Accounting for Jewellers): from jeweller to niche accountant, offshoring success story.
• Innovation tips from James O’Loghlin: tackle friction, protect thinking time, challenge assumptions.
• Interview with Alan Lonie (AO Accounting): navigating complex Thai regulations, digital adoption challenges.
• Human performance advice from Olly Bridge: fight burnout, habit stack, and walk through problems.
• Interview with Mark Said (MKS Group): expanding through offshoring, shifting to CFO coaching, talent shortages.
• Interview with Mareta Akari (TOA Global): TOA’s cultural values, post-conference celebrations, and resilience during natural disasters.

Heather Smith attended the TOACon 2025 conference as hosted media.

If you want to find out more about TOAGlobal please visit their website :toaglobal.com

If you want further information about anything covered in this podcast, please refer to the show notes: https://www.heathersmithsmallbusiness.com/blog/

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 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/

• Why networking isn't about selling, it's about trust and relationships.
• Tips for event preparation, including reviewing attendees and sending pre-event LinkedIn messages.
• Digital vs paper business cards: the role of QR codes, NFC cards, and LinkedIn connections.
• Best conversation starters (including complimenting shoes).
• The importance of post-event follow-up, such as voice memos and task lists.
• Why introverts might actually be excellent networkers.
• How to stay top of mind with minimal LinkedIn activity (just 12 posts a year!).
• Real examples of relationships built over 15+ years that still add value today.
• Encouragement for all generations—young professionals and seasoned leaders alike—to show up and contribute.

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

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 . . .

• Key 2025 trends: AI integration, automation pain points, rapid tech change.
• The obsession with building AI agents into workflows.
• Insights on award-winning success and staying unique.
• The shift to remote-first work and global team building.
• Strategic investments in talent vs. tech at Cloudoffis.
• The call to kill receipts, wet signatures, and corporate cheques.
• Bold forecasts for AI replacing admin roles and fast decision-making gaps.
• Final takeaway: ethics, professionalism, and agility are your superpowers.

Contact details:

Sponsor Offers: Here

Cloudoffis : https://cloudoffis.com.au/

Natalia Clark : https://www.linkedin.com/in/nataliaclack-easysuper/

Tyler Caskey : https://www.linkedin.com/in/tylercaskey/

John Munden : https://www.linkedin.com/in/jmunden/

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

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.

• Introduction to Jarrod Adam and his background in product management
• The story behind Unleashed and its acquisition by The Access Group
• Overview of the inventory and warehouse management landscape for SMBs
• Unleashed’s value proposition for small businesses and advisors
• When and why to move from basic inventory in GL systems to dedicated inventory tools
• Implementation approach and onboarding process at Unleashed
• Unleashed’s ecosystem: integrations with Xero, QuickBooks, Shopify, Amazon & more
• Evolving supply chain issues post-COVID and solutions like Advanced Inventory Manager (AIM)
• AI in Unleashed: Evo copilot, AI feed, and intelligent agents
• Partner Portal for accountants and bookkeepers – real-time client access
• Use of operational data for advisory services
• The Unleashed Manufacturing Health Index – valuable for advisory insights
• Discussion around the manufacturing “haves and have-nots”
• Closing thoughts on simplicity, design, and real value from software

Unleashed, Xero, QuickBooks, Shopify, WooCommerce, Amazon, Access Evo, Advanced Inventory Manager

00:00 – Welcome & Guest Intro: Meet Jarrod Adam from Unleashed. 01:58 – From Tigerland to Tech: A playful rugby-themed intro. 04:20 – Jarrod’s Journey to Product Management: How he fell into software. 06:20 – Auckland’s Thriving SaaS Scene: NZ’s impact on global tech. 08:10 – Inventory, CRM & WMS Landscape: What SMBs need today. 10:50 – What Unleashed Does: Efficient workflows + strategic insights. 13:00 – Signs a Business Needs Unleashed: From post-it notes to stock stress. 15:20 – Accountant & Bookkeeper Pain Points: Data, margins & advisory blocks. 17:30 – Implementation Timeline: Fast, guided onboarding sessions. 19:05 – Unleashed Integrations: Xero, QuickBooks, Shopify, Amazon & more. 21:10 – E-commerce Growth Post-COVID: Why integrations are essential. 23:15 – AI & Forecasting with AIM: Managing supply chain uncertainty. 26:00 – Using Data for Better Advice: The power of operational insights. 28:00 – Manufacturing Health Index: A free resource for advisory. 30:00 – Characteristics of Thriving Manufacturers: Mitigating supplier risks. 32:15 – Partner Portal for Accountants: Real-time multi-client access. 34:00 – AI Copilot & Agents: How Evo enhances the user experience. 35:45 – Final Thoughts & Outro: Software should solve problems, not add them.

Contact details:

Sponsor Offers: Here

Unleashed Software: https://www.unleashedsoftware.com/

Jarrod Adam: https://www.linkedin.com/in/jarrod-adam/

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

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:

✅ Career journeys and leadership pivots

✅ Building confidence and personal brand (hello USP!)

✅ Ethics vs. earnings — where we draw the line

✅ Mentoring, connection and navigating invisible barriers

✅ Creating influence with integrity and making an impact

Listen if you're looking for insight, inspiration, or real-world stories from women reshaping leadership in accounting.

Contact details:

Sponsor Offers: Here

Kyelie Baxter, Managing Director at IQ Accountants

https://www.linkedin.com/in/kyelie-baxter-fcpa-43224334/

Uthaya Ponnusamy, Partner & Industry Lead - Not For Profit sector at RSM Singapore

https://www.linkedin.com/in/uthaya-ponnusamy-5bab1763/

Magdalene Ang, Director, R Chan & Associates PAC and Chair of ACCA Singapore Member Network Panel.

https://www.linkedin.com/in/magdalene-ang-fcca-fca-singapore-03b2084b/

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