Virtual Rolodex hosted by TXCPA Houston

Podcast: TXCPA Houston – Virtual Rolodex

Host: Kristie Ondracek

Guest: Jessica Wise, CPA Alliance Relationship Manager, ABGI USA

Episode Title

How CPAs Can Unlock R&D Credits, Cost Segregation, and Grant Funding for Clients

Episode Summary

Recorded live at the 2025 Fall Accounting Conference & Technology Symposium, this special episode of TXCPA Houston Virtual Rolodex features Jessica Wise of ABGI USA, a global tax strategy firm headquartered in Houston.

Jessica shares how ABGI helps CPAs and their clients identify and defend high-value tax strategies including R...

Duration: 00:06:22

Episode Summary

In this special episode of TXCPA Houston Virtual Rolodex, Kristie Ondracek welcomes Antoinette Mosley, a recent University of Houston–Downtown graduate, new audit associate, and CPA exam candidate.

Antoinette shares her inspiring journey from working in customer service during COVID while raising a young child to earning her accounting degree magna cum laude and launching her career in public accounting. She opens up about navigating motherhood, full-time work, CPA exam preparation, and the importance of community, delegation, and self-leadership along the way.

This episode is a must-listen for CPA candidates, young pr...

Duration: 00:13:48

Podcast: TXCPA Houston – Virtual Rolodex

Host: Kristie Ondracek

Guest: Arthur Forbus, Founder & CEO, Changing the Face of Finance

Episode Title

From Spreadsheet Chaos to Board-Ready Clarity: How CFOs Can Lead the Future of Finance

Episode Summary

In this episode of TXCPA Houston Virtual Rolodex, Kristie Ondracek welcomes fellow TXCPA Houston member Arthur Forbus, founder and CEO of Changing the Face of Finance, to discuss how CFOs and finance teams can escape spreadsheet chaos and move toward board-ready clarity.

...

Duration: 00:11:59

Podcast: TXCPA Houston – Virtual Rolodex

Episode Title: From Small-Town Texas to CFO Advisor: Arthur Forbus on Changing the Face of Finance

Host: Kristie Ondracek

Guest: Arthur Forbus, CPA — Founder & CEO, Changing the Face of Finance

Episode Summary

In this episode of Virtual Rolodex, Kristie Ondracek sits down with fellow CPA Arthur Forbus to explore how a small-town Texas upbringing led to a national career in finance, consulting, and corporate performance management. Arthur shares how his CPA laid the foundation for opportunities ranging from Fortune 500 companies to becoming a partner in a...

Duration: 00:13:34

Episode Highlights

The host, Kristie Ondracek, welcomes listeners and introduces the repeat guest speaker for the upcoming conference: Dr. Minh Nguyen, DO, Chief Medical Officer of Agile Occupational Medicine.​Dr. Nguyen shares his background, including 25 years of practice specializing in occupational and environmental medicine, taking care of the workforce such as police officers, firefighters, and teachers.​

Main Topics Discussed

Dr. Nguyen will present the closing session at the Fall Accounting Conference, discussing "Redefining Health"—addressing physical, mental, emotional, and energetic health.​He emphasizes how organizational leadership can benefit from prioritizing individual and collective wellness, as the health o...

Duration: 00:08:44

Leading Finance Teams Through Change — A Conversation with Arthur Forbus

 

Host: Kristie Ondracek, TXCPA Houston

Guest: Arthur Forbus, Founder & CEO, Changing the Face of Finance (CFOF)

 

Episode Overview

In this episode of TXCPA Houston’s Virtual Rolodex, Kristie Ondracek sits down with Arthur Forbus, founder and CEO of Changing the Face of Finance (CFOF), for a preview of his upcoming session at the 2025 Fall Accounting Conference and Technology Symposium (FACTS). The event will be held November 19–20, 2025, at the Norris Conference Center in Houst...

Duration: 00:05:41

In this episode of Virtual Rolodex, Kristie sits down with Matt Daniel from All in IT for a conversation that blends technology, strategy, and partnership.

Matt shares his insights on:

The IT services every business should be thinking aboutWhat he believes is the true “secret sauce” to business successWhy he’s looking forward to being a partner with TXCPA Houston

Whether you’re curious about how IT can strengthen your business, or you want to hear what drives successful leaders, this episode is packed with value.

Mat...

Duration: 00:16:45

Kristie Ondracek welcomes listeners to a special episode of the TXCPA Houston Virtual Rolodex, featuring quarterly updates from corporate sponsors. This episode spotlights Goodman Financial, represented by Senior Financial Advisor Hunter Coday, who provides insights on the most recent tax legislation, key impacts for individuals and families, Social Security changes, and current market conditions.

 

Tax Law Updates: Key Provisions from the Recent Bill

High-Level Takeaways

·        Recent Legislation: A major tax bill with extensive provisions has been signed, aiming to continue or adapt key elements of the 2017 Tax Cuts and Jobs Act.

·     ...

Duration: 00:22:37

Join us for an inspiring conversation with Mariella Bosquez, a University of Houston student and active member of the TXCPA Houston Chapter. Mariela shares her unique journey from psychology and Spanish to discovering her passion for accounting, how she found a welcoming community in the Houston chapter, and her insights on the evolving accounting profession.

https://www.linkedin.com/in/mariella-bosquez-906a37134/

Duration: 00:14:07

In this episode of the TXCPA Houston Virtual Rolodex podcast, host Kristie Ondracek welcomes Mark Struczewski, also known as “Mister Productivity.” Mark shares his mission to help overwhelmed professionals get “unstuck” by focusing not just on to-do lists, but also on mindset and overall well-being. He emphasizes that many people wait until their problems become severe before seeking help, and encourages listeners to be proactive about self-reflection and continuous learning. Mark discusses the importance of embracing new technologies like AI as helpful tools rather than threats, and urges professionals to stay curious and adaptable.

And as a...

Duration: 00:25:08

Kristie welcomes Ely Delaney, an expert in automated systems and email marketing strategy, to discuss authentic communication, building lasting client relationships, and the smart use of automation and AI in business outreach. Ely shares actionable tips for making your emails stand out, avoiding common marketing mistakes, and creating genuine connections that turn prospects into lifelong clients.

What’s Inside:

How to write emails people actually want to read—ditch the spammy tactics and connect like a real human.Why authenticity and personality are your best marketing tools.The magic script Ely uses to re-engage...

Duration: 00:29:40

In this episode of the TXCPA Houston Virtual Rolodex, host Kristie Ondracek sits down with Steve Goodman, founder of Goodman Financial, to discuss the firm’s long-standing support of TXCPA Houston, their unique approach to financial planning, and the importance of community and professional development within the CPA world. Steve shares insights into Goodman Financial’s mission, the value of building trusted relationships, and how the firm fosters both internal leadership and external education for CPAs and the broader community

Steve Goodman, CPA, CFP®

www.goodmanfinancial.com

Duration: 00:15:07

Kristie Ondracek welcomes Roger Devine to discuss innovative fundraising solutions for nonprofits, especially those connected to schools and grassroots organizations. Roger shares insights into his company, SchoolAuction.net, and how their software is tailored to support volunteer-led fundraising events with user-friendly, cost-effective tools.

SchoolAuction.net is designed for small, volunteer-driven nonprofits seeking efficient, affordable, and user-friendly fundraising solutions.

The platform stands out for its transparent pricing, flexibility, and commitment to customer support.

Innovative ideas like sign-up parties and robust communication tools help organizations maximize...

Duration: 00:29:47

Meet Natallia Ornelas, CFP®, RICP®, Wealth Management Advisor with 15+ years of experience and CFP® & ICP designations. From Belarus to the U.S., her inspiring journey is built on grit, professionalism, and a passion for helping clients navigate complex financial decisions.

✨ Fun fact: She used to be a singer — and that’s how she met her husband!

Duration: 00:14:53

In this episode, Kristie Ondracek interviews Alec Olinger, Senior Audit Associate at Harding, Shymanski & Company and creator of the "Elevate CPA" TikTok channel. Alec shares his honest journey to passing the CPA exam-including early setbacks, taking a break, and finally passing in October 2024. He talks about the mental challenges, the importance of finding your own study rhythm, and balancing work, life, and exam prep.

Alec started his TikTok channel to encourage CPA candidates and offer real, practical advice after finding most exam tips too vague. He emphasizes that the CPA exam is a test of discipline, not...

Duration: 00:16:39

In this episode, Kristie Ondracek interviews Sabrina Leonardi about her unique journey to becoming a CPA, her career path across industry and consulting, and the wide-ranging opportunities available in accounting and finance. Sabrina shares insights on the value of the CPA credential, the diversity of roles in the field, and advice for students considering accounting or finance.

Key Topics Discussed

Sabrina’s Background and EducationGraduated from Oklahoma State University with degrees in accounting and finance.Did not pursue a master’s in accounting but became CPA-eligible by taking extra classes and studying while working full-time at Exxo...

Duration: 00:14:04

Kristie welcomes Mark Bacon, a professional engineer and practice lead at Leyton, a global tax consulting firm specializing in niche tax incentives for commercial real estate. Mark is a featured speaker at the upcoming Spring Technology and Accounting Resources Summit (STARS), taking place May 13–14 at the Sugar Land Marriott.

Key Topics Covered:

Mark’s Background:Mark is an engineer with experience at Moss Adams (now Baker Tilly) and currently leads Leyton’s commercial real estate services team. Leyton focuses on helping businesses maximize underutilized tax incentives, especially in real estate and construction.Summit Presen...

Duration: 00:05:55

Guest: Michael Haynes, Business Growth Specialist from Sydney, Australia

Event: Spring Technology and Accounting Resources (STARS) Summit

Date: May 13-14, 2025Location: Sugar Land, Houston

Session Details: "Cracking the Code: Finding, Winning, and Keeping High-Value Advisory Clients"

Two-part sessionInteractive, not "death by PowerPoint"Covers:1. What today's advisory service buyers want2. How buyers purchase advisory services3. Go-to-market strategy pillars4. Creating effective advisory services

Key Takeaways:

Action plan for firm growthUnderstanding modern B2B advisory service dynamicsPractical strategies for acquiring high-value clients

Bonus: Additional 3-hour Northwest Roundtable workshop for deeper strategy development

...

Duration: 00:15:40

Episode Overview:

Kristie welcomes Nef Palacio, a CPA since 2021, to discuss his journey into accounting, the value of the CPA credential, and the realities of working in public accounting.

Key Topics:

Career Beginnings:

Nef shares how a high school accounting class and encouragement from his sister sparked his interest in the field. Influential professors and peers in college introduced him to the CPA path and its professional opportunities.

Benefits of Being a CPA:

The CPA designation has opened doors both professionally and personally, enabling Nef to connect...

Duration: 00:14:09

In this episode, Kristie Ondracek welcomes Rhonda Travers, a featured speaker at the upcoming Spring Technology and Accounting Resources Summit (STARS), taking place May 13–14 in Sugar Land, TX, and virtually. Kristie and Rhonda discuss the importance of board engagement in nonprofit organizations, leadership development, and actionable strategies for accounting professionals looking to make an impact in the nonprofit sector.

Register today: bit.ly/2025STARS

Duration: 00:12:58

Kristie Ondracek hosts Deanna Sullivan, a renowned speaker and ethics expert, as part of the TXCPA Houston Virtual Rolodex series. This episode previews Deanna’s upcoming session at the Spring Technology Accounting Resource Summit (STARS), focusing on ethics in the accounting profession and beyond.

Event Details

Ethics Session: May 12, 2025 (afternoon)STARS Conference: May 13–14, 2025, Sugar Land, TX

Who Should Attend: CPAs, finance professionals, auditors, legal professionals, and anyone interested in ethical leadership and professional development

Session Highlights

·      Covers recent fraud cases and why individuals cr...

Duration: 00:18:55

In this episode of TXCPA Houston's Virtual Rolodex, host Kristie Ondracek interviews Vladimir Amiouny, a CPA and audit and assurance senior at Deloitte in Houston. Vladimir shares his journey from being born in Canada to growing up in Houston, earning his bachelor’s in accounting and master’s in finance from Texas A&M University, and eventually pursuing a career in auditing. He explains that his role involves reviewing financial statements, internal controls, and providing opinions on their fairness and accuracy, with a focus on mentorship and team leadership during the busy season.

Learn more...

Duration: 00:16:36

In this episode, Kristie Ondracek continues her series on the real-world experiences of accounting professionals by interviewing Rehan Noorani, a Houston-based CPA. Rehan shares his unique journey through various roles in the accounting field, offering valuable insights for aspiring accountants and CPAs.

Thank you for listening!

For more stories from accounting professionals and previews of upcoming conference speakers, subscribe and keep tuning in to the TXCPA Houston Virtual Rolodex.

Connect with us for more resources, discounts on CPA study materials, and community support!

www.txcpahouston...

Duration: 00:19:20

Duration: 00:12:25

Episode Overview:

In this episode, Kristie Ondracek kicks off the STAR-studded series leading up to the Spring Technology and Accounting Resources Summit (STARS) happening May 13–14. She sits down with Jesse Rubenfeld, an accountant-turned-technologist and CEO of FinOptimal, to give listeners a sneak peek at his upcoming session.

Duration: 00:08:55

In this episode, host Kristie Ondracek welcomes Kaneez Masoom to discuss her journey in accounting, from discovering her passion in high school to becoming a director specializing in state and local tax. Kaneez shares insights on navigating the profession, embracing curiosity, and adapting to niche areas like sales tax and digital goods taxation. She also reflects on advice she would give her younger self and the importance of taking things one day at a time.

Key Topics:

✅ Choosing accounting as a career path

✅ Transitioning from audit to tax<...

Duration: 00:14:48

TXCPA Houston Virtual Rolodex Guest: Scott Barcroft, Partner at RSM Episode Highlights:

Breaking Accounting Stereotypes: Showcasing the dynamic and innovative side of the accounting professionGuest Profile: Scott Barcroft, leading value creation solutions at RSM

Career Journey:

Started in accounting after abandoning pre-med pathWorked at Deloitte, PwC, and now RSMSpecialized in transaction advisory services and operational assessmentsBuilt a multi-million dollar practice from scratch at RSM

Key Insights:

Accounting offers diverse career paths beyond traditional number-crunchingCritical skills for success:

1. Writing and presentation 2. Interpersonal communication 3. Adaptability and technology integration

<...

Duration: 00:19:28

In this episode of TX CPA Houston Virtual Rolodex, host Kristie Ondracek interviews Jazmine, a remote tax accountant who provides insights into the modern accounting profession. Jazmine shares her journey into accounting, highlighting the profession's dynamic nature and challenging common misconceptions about accountants.

Key Highlights:

Remote Work Advantages: Discusses benefits of working remotely, including cost savings and flexibilityCareer Motivation: Chose accounting for its analytical nature and potential to help businessesProfessional Skills: Emphasizes the importance of communication, adaptability, and continuous learningDebunking Stereotypes: Shows accountants are diverse professionals with rich lives outside work

<...

Duration: 00:16:39

In this episode of the TXCPA Houston Virtual Rolodex, host Kristie Ondracek sits down with John Garrett—CPA-turned-comedian, keynote speaker, bestselling author, and corporate culture expert. John shares insights on how professionals can embrace their full identity beyond their job title, the importance of workplace culture, and how organizations can improve engagement and retention through authentic human connection.

Duration: 00:28:02

In this week's episode, Kriste speaks with Matt Luensmann who is an experienced talent acquisition specialist and takes a unique approach to recruiting. He focuses on understanding a company's culture, mission, and long-term needs to find the right fit, rather than just filling an open role. Matt emphasizes the importance of strategic planning and addressing any cultural issues before making a hire to ensure long-term success. Business owners can benefit from Matt's expertise in navigating the hiring process and avoiding costly mistakes.

Matt Luensmann

MJL Recruiting & Consulting

Owner/Lead Technical...

Duration: 00:26:30

In this episode, Kristie speaks with Adam Dimmick about his own journey and Crowe LLP.

Adam Dimmick is a partner at the CPA firm Crowe and a past president of TXCPA Houston. He discusses Crowe's national presence and expertise in audit, tax, and consulting for public and private entities.

Crowe has a global reach through its affiliation with Crowe Global, an accounting network in over 130 countries, allowing them to serve clients internationally.

Crowe strongly encourages community involvement and mentorship, supporting programs like the TXCPA...

Duration: 00:23:51

WE ARE BACK!!

Kristie sat down with Martin Fretwell, co-founder of Event Driven Growth, to discuss how you can upscale your events so attendees and employees actually want t come! Whether you're new to the event space or been around for a while, you’ll want Martin in your virtual rolodex to take your next event to the experience of a lifetime. Add him to your own virtual Rolodex!

Book recommendation - 2 Hour Cocktail party

Martin Fretwell

martin@eventdrivengrowth.com

https://www.linkedin.com...

Duration: 00:28:29

New Virtual Rolodex podcast episode available. Kristie sat down with Anshul Agrawal, CEO at June15 Consulting. He created the Direct Ownership model of offshoring. Listen today to hear why Anshul needs to be in your own virtual rolodex.

Anshul Agrawal

CEO, June15 Consulting

LinkedIn // Cell: 416-835-1689 // Direct: (647) 848-3465

1 King Street W, Suite 4800 - 68, Toronto, ON, M5H 1A1, Canada

Duration: 00:22:43

New Virtual Rolodex podcast episode available. Kristie sat down with Nancy Cailleteau Mills, Business Prosperity Advisor with Lowenberg Consulting. She helps business owners to free up more time, make more money, and have more options in the future. Listen today to hear why Nancy needs to be in your own virtual rolodex.

 

Nancy M.C. Mills

Business Prosperity Coach

Lowenberg Consulting

Cell: 281- 317- 0347

NMills@LowenbergConsulting.com

Book a briefing with me

Connect on LinkedIn

Duration: 00:24:20

Tune in to our latest podcast episode as we dive into everything you need to know about the upcoming TXCPA Houston Fall Accounting Conference & Technology Symposium! Kristie sits down with the event's two co-chairs, Michael Kraten & Heather Bain, to discuss the hottest topics in accounting, cutting-edge technology, and what attendees can expect from this year's conference. Whether you're a seasoned CPA or just starting in the field, you won’t want to miss this insider look into Houston's premier accounting event! 

#TXCPAHouston #FallAccountingConference #TechSymposium #CPA #Accounting #Finance #Podcast

Conference Det...

Duration: 00:17:34

New Virtual Rolodex podcast episode available. Kristie sat down with Kim Bruggeman, ACA Compliance Consultant at ACAChamp.com. She speaks about how the team at ACAChamps helps CPAs and businesses be compliance with the Affordable Care Act annual compliance. Listen today to hear why Kim and ACAChamps need to be in your own virtual rolodex.

Kim Bruggeman

ACA Compliance Consultant

ACAChamp.com 

405-830-4653

kim.bruggeman@complichamp.com

9000 Cameron Parkway | OKC, OK 73114

Resources:

ACAChamp Core Plus - ht...

Duration: 00:19:56

New Virtual Rolodex podcast episode available. Kristie sat down with Stefan Hofmeyer, Managing Director at E78 Partners. He speaks about how the team at E78 helps small to large businesses with their growth, talent needs, and performance improvements. Listen today to hear why Stefan and E78 need to be in your own virtual rolodex.

Stefan Hofmeyer

Managing Director

201 Main St | Houston TX

P: +1 713 396-0083

E: shofmeyer@e78partners.com 

Duration: 00:25:15

New Virtual Rolodex podcast episode available. Kristie sat down with Elisa Ellis, Wardrobe Stylist at Turnkey Style. She helps businesses communicate the importance of dressing for success. Listen today to hear why Elisa needs to be in your own virtual rolodex.

Elisa Ellis

Wardrobe Stylist

Turnkey Style

650.799.7123

elisa@turnkeystyle.com

www.turnkeystyle.com

"Life is short. Why not wear clothes that you look and feel amazing in?"

Duration: 00:23:38

New Virtual Rolodex podcast episode available. Kristie sat down with Jason Rorie, Chief Executive Officer at Triad InfoSec. His firm helps businesses stay out of the bad actors hands. Listen today to hear how to protect yourself and why Jason’s needs to be in your own virtual rolodex.

Listen today: https://bit.ly/3AXxdHL

Watch today: https://youtu.be/T64RAfKj5P4

Jason L. Rorie, C|EH, CSIE, CISM, CISA, CCSP, CISSP-ISSMP

Chief Executive Officer

Triad InfoSec

281-40...

Duration: 00:25:10

New Virtual Rolodex podcast episode available. Kristie sat down with Michael Haynes, a Business Mentor, Go-to-Market Strategist and Start-up Advisor He empowers professional service firms such as Accounting, IT and Law, take their firms to the next level. 

Listen today to find out why Michael Haynes should be in your own virtual rolodex.

Listen today: https://bit.ly/4fKAdHi

Watch today: https://youtu.be/culOGF0EHJM

 

Get his free Go to Market Playbook for Small and Medium B2B Professional Service Firms

...

Duration: 00:21:35

In this episode, Kristie speaks with Matthew Pierce, Entertainer, Emcee, & Speaker. For more information on how he can assist your business and/or clients business, here is the contact information:

https://www.linkedin.com/in/matthewrussellpierce/

Duration: 00:28:11

In this episode, Kristie speaks with Gabriel Florentino, Client Development Director at Engineered Advisory

Gabriel Florentino

Client Development Director

P: 979-703-0812

engineeredadvisory.com | (Schedule a Call)

gflorentino@engineeredtaxservices.com

Duration: 00:29:51

In this episode, Kristie speaks with Jessica Malone, founder of Nacho Average Fro

Contact information:

Jessica Malone

Jess@nachoaveragefro.com

https://www.linkedin.com/in/jessmalone/

Duration: 00:21:11

In this episode, Kristie speaks with Tim Adler, CPA from FORVIS, on this experience as a CPA and a volunteer for TXCPA Houston.

Duration: 00:00:00

In this episode, Kristie speaks with Lena Allouche and Nick Hampson with Harness Wealth. For more information on how he can assist your business and/or clients business, here is the contact information:

Lena Allouche

Director of Business Development | Harness

(713) 614-8606

lallouche@harnesswealth.com

https://www.linkedin.com/in/lenaallouche/

Nick Hampson

Head of Business Development | Harness

(201) 675-7610

nick@harnesswealth.com

https://www.linkedin.com/in/nick-hampson-257a9a16/

Duration: 00:30:23

In this episode, Kristie speaks with Austine Esezobor, SEO Consultant and Knowledge Panel Expert.

For more information on how he can assist your business and/or clients business, here is the contact information:

austine@democratizingseo.com

https://www.linkedin.com/in/austineesezobor/

YouTube: https://youtu.be/akgNKLpn5Q0

Duration: 00:25:03

In this episode, Kristie speaks with Jaime Melgarejo of Prepare, Sell, Retire

For more information on how he can assist your business and/or clients business, here is the contact information:

Jaime Melgarejo

832-947-3479

www.callpsr.com

prepsellretire@gmail.com

Duration: 00:18:31

In this episode, Kristie speaks with Wayne Hunter, CEO of AvTek Solutions.

For more information on how he can assist your business and/or clients business, here is the contact information:

Wayne Hunter

CEO

AvTek Solutions, Inc.

wayne.hunter@avteksolutions.com

(214) 778-2983 Ext. 100 - Work | (972) 616-6406 - Work

www.avteksolutions.com

Duration: 00:29:12

In this episode, Kristie speaks with Will Hill, owner of Will Hill Consults, LLC

For more information on how he can assist your business and/or clients business, here is the contact information:

https://willhillconsults.com/

Will on LinkedIn

(734) 474-4058

 

Meet with Will! https://calendly.com/willhillconsults/30-min-conversation

Duration: 00:24:08

In this episode, Kristie speaks with Heather Bain - TXCPA Houston Member and Founder of Bain CPA Business Strategies, LLC

You can visit Bain CPA Business Strategies, LLC website at https://www.baincpafirm.com/

Duration: 00:19:09