Breaking the "We've Always Done It This Way" Cycle
Download MP3Why do so many accounting firms struggle to bridge the gap between their stated values and actual workplace culture? In this episode, Blake Oliver sits down with Erin Daiber, founder of Well Balanced Accountants, to explore how firms can move beyond culture theory to real operational change. You'll discover why "we've always done it this way" thinking kills retention, learn specific strategies for showing appreciation without micromanaging, and understand how being too busy prevents the culture improvements you need most. Erin shares her framework for defining your current culture honestly, creating accountability structures that stick, and making small changes that build significant cultural shifts over time.
Chapters
https://earmarkcpe.com
https://earmark.app/
Download the Earmark CPE App
Apple: https://apps.apple.com/us/app/earmark-cpe/id1562599728
Chapters
- (01:06) - Erin's Journey into Accounting
- (09:06) - Transition to Coaching
- (28:52) - Operationalizing Culture Change
- (30:55) - Defining Firm Values and Goals
- (33:12) - Balancing Client Service and Employee Well-being
- (35:10) - Aligning Personal and Professional Goals
- (38:09) - Overcoming Scarcity Mindset
- (46:12) - Showing Appreciation and Respect
- (53:21) - Strategies for Reducing Micromanagement
- (55:53) - Implementing and Sustaining Culture Change
- (57:46) - Conclusion and Contact Information
https://earmarkcpe.com
https://earmark.app/
Download the Earmark CPE App
Apple: https://apps.apple.com/us/app/earmark-cpe/id1562599728
Connect with Our Guest, Erin Daiber
LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/cpacoacherin/
Learn more about Well Balanced Accountants
Website: https://www.wellbalancedaccountants.com/
Connect with Blake Oliver, CPA
LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/blaketoliver
Twitter: https://twitter.com/blaketoliver/
Creators and Guests
Guest
Erin Daiber
Erin is a CPA turned leadership coach, speaker, and trainer who has dedicated her career to supporting accounting professionals. Having worked as an accountant herself, she understands the demanding nature of the profession—the technical expertise required, long hours, and the challenging path to becoming a CPA. Her passion lies in working with the people side of accounting rather than the numbers. She describes accountants as some of the brightest, hardest-working, and most clever professionals she knows, and she maintains strong friendships within the CPA community. Now in her ideal role, she remains actively involved in the accounting profession while focusing on what she loves most: helping people. She works with CPAs, aspiring CPAs, and firm leaders across the country, assisting individuals and companies in achieving their goals through leadership development and training—all while never having to look at another audit binder.
