Episodes

44
Oct. 7, 2026

Episode 44: Wassia Kamon, Chief Financial Officer, Access to Capital for Entrepreneurs

Wassia Kamon shares her journey from West Africa to CFO, highlighting the importance of executive branding, the role of community and mentorship, and how AI is transforming finance functions. Wassia Kamon is the Chief Financial Officer at Access to Capital for Entrepreneurs (ACE), serving as a strategic business partner to the CEO and executive team. She leads the organization’s financial operations, including accounting, treasury, financial reporting, and compliance, and supports the developme...
42
Sept. 2, 2026

Episode 42: Michael Durant, president of NYCPA

In this episode, Michael Durant, CPA, the president of NYCPA, shares insights on the evolving role of CPAs, the importance of technology, and the future of the accounting profession in New York and beyond.
43
July 22, 2026

Episode 43: Shelly Weir, CEO of Florida Institute of CPAs

In this episode, Shelley Weir, CEO of FICPA, shares her journey from hospitality to leading a major CPA organization, insights on advocacy, the pace of change in the profession, and strategies for long-term success.
41
May 27, 2026

Episode 41: Akshay Shrimanker

In this engaging interview, Akshay Shrimanker shares his journey from the UK to becoming a CPA and entrepreneur, exploring the evolving landscape of accounting, technology, and emerging opportunities in the profession. Discover insights on leveraging technology, the future of CPAs, and innovative initiatives like a hackathon during New York Tech Week.
40
April 22, 2026

Episode 40: Melissa Dardani

In this episode of the Trusted Professional Podcast, Melissa Dardani shares her journey into accounting, discussing her transition from a creative background to a successful career in forensic accounting. She highlights the challenges facing the accounting profession, particularly in attracting talent and adapting to the rise of artificial intelligence. Melissa emphasizes the importance of maintaining integrity in the profession while embracing technology, and she reflects on the potential impac...
39
March 25, 2026

Episode 39: Jessica McClain

In this conversation, Jessica McLean shares her unique journey into the accounting profession, detailing her early aspirations, career transitions, and current role as CFO in the nonprofit sector. She discusses the complexities of accounting in nonprofit organizations, the challenges faced by professionals in this space, and the impact of technology and AI on the future of accounting. Jessica emphasizes the importance of communication and adaptability in the evolving landscape of the profession....
38
Feb. 25, 2026

Episode 38: A'isha Torrence

In this episode of the Trusted Professional Podcast, A'isha Torrance, CPA, shares her journey into the accounting profession, discussing her early experiences and the evolution of her career. She emphasizes the importance of adapting to changes in the industry, particularly with the rise of AI and the need for upskilling. Aisha also addresses common misconceptions about accountants and highlights the significance of storytelling in financial reporting. A'isha and Calvin discuss the complexitie...
37
Jan. 28, 2026

Episode 37: Li Tao

In this episode of the Trusted Professional Podcast, Calvin Harris Jr. speaks with Li Tao, an investment banker with a rich background in accounting and finance. Lee shares his journey into the accounting profession, the challenges faced by accountants today, and the impact of AI on the industry. He discusses the importance of creating value for clients and the misconceptions surrounding the accounting profession. Lee also explores innovative ideas for enhancing the profession and shares his tho...
36
Nov. 19, 2025

Episode 36: Leroy Kerry

In this episode, Calvin Harris Jr. interviews Leroy Kerry, co-founder and CEO of Fylde, an AI-powered tax preparation company. They discuss Leroy's unique journey from architecture to accounting, the challenges faced by small accounting firms, and the transformative potential of AI in the tax preparation process. Leroy shares insights on the importance of AI readiness in the accounting profession and the future of continuous learning for accountants. They also explore contrarian views on private...
35
Nov. 12, 2025

Episode 35: Peter Olinto

In this episode of the Trusted Professional Podcast, host Calvin Harris Jr. speaks with Peter Olinto, a seasoned CPA, CFA, and JD, about his extensive journey in the accounting and finance fields. They discuss the evolution of the CPA exam, the importance of credentials, the challenges faced by accounting professionals, and the impact of technology on the industry. Peter shares insights on the necessity of sales skills in public accounting, the intersection of law and accounting, and the signif...
34
Oct. 22, 2025

Episode 34: Lexi Weber

In this episode of the Trusted Professional Podcast, Lexi Weber discusses her journey into the accounting profession, the challenges faced by accountants today, and the impact of technology and AI on the industry. She emphasizes the importance of mentorship and communication in supporting the next generation of accountants and shares insights on the AICPA's Rise 2040 project, which aims to envision the future of the profession. Lexi also addresses common misconceptions about accountants and high...
33
Oct. 8, 2025

Episode 33: Julienne Gutierrez

In this episode of the Trusted Professional Podcast, host Calvin Harris Jr. speaks with Julianne Gutierrez, a CPA with over 19 years of experience in accounting and finance. They discuss Julianne's journey into accounting, her career progression, the challenges faced in the profession, and the misconceptions surrounding accountants. Julianne shares her insights on the importance of leadership and retention in accounting, as well as her innovative ideas for transforming the profession through med...
32
Sept. 25, 2025

Episode 32: Byron Patrick

In this episode of the Trusted Professional Podcast, Byron Patrick shares his journey from a young entrepreneur delivering newspapers to a CPA passionate about leveraging technology in the accounting profession. He discusses the evolution of technology in accounting, the importance of human skills, and the misconceptions surrounding the role of accountants, especially in the age of AI. Byron emphasizes the need for CPAs to build relationships with clients and adapt to the changing landscape of t...
31
Sept. 10, 2025

Episode 31: Stacey Ryan-Cornelius

In this episode of the Trusted Professional Podcast, Calvin Harris Jr. speaks with Stacey Ryan-Cornelius, the Global Chief Financial Officer at Burson. They discuss Stacey's journey into accounting, the evolving role of the CFO, the impact of technology and AI on the profession, and the importance of communication and leadership in finance. Stacey emphasizes the need for accountants to be seen as strategic partners rather than just number crunchers, and she shares her personal insights and inter...
30
Aug. 27, 2025

Episode 30: Mike Quinn, chief financial officer, Catholic Charities of Buffalo

In this episode of the Trusted Professional podcast, Calvin Harris Jr. speaks with Mike Quinn, a CPA and CFO in the not-for-profit sector. They discuss Mike's journey into accounting, the challenges faced in the profession, the impact of AI on accounting practices, and the importance of continuous learning. Mike shares his experience of becoming a Chartered Accountant in Ireland and reflects on the value of CPAs in practice. The conversation highlights the evolving landscape of accounting and th...
29
Aug. 13, 2025

Episode 29: Kevin Matz, president of the New York State Society of CPAs

In this episode of the Trusted Professional Podcast, Kevin Matz, President of the New York State Society of CPAs, shares his unique journey from aspiring musician to a prominent figure in the accounting profession. He discusses the importance of professional committees, the challenges facing the accounting industry, and the need for financial education. Matz emphasizes the role of community and innovation in shaping the future of accounting, particularly in the context of emerging technologies.
28
July 23, 2025

Episode 28: Ask Me Anything, with Calvin Harris, CPA

In this episode of the Trusted Professional Podcast, New York CPA executive director Calvin Harris answers members' questions about the profession and the Society.
27
July 9, 2025

Episode 27: Jack Castonguay

In this episode of the Trusted Professional Podcast, Jack Castonguay discusses his journey into accounting, the challenges facing the profession, and the importance of public engagement. He emphasizes the need for innovation and interdisciplinary approaches in accounting education and practice, while also sharing insights on the evolving role of technology in the field. Jack's passion for running and his upcoming marathon plans serve as a metaphor for the dedication required in both accounting a...
26
June 18, 2025

Episode 26: David Samayoa, winner of the Elijah Watt Sells Award

In this episode of the Trusted Professional Podcast, David Samayoa shares his inspiring journey from an international business major to becoming a recipient of the Elijah Watt Sells Award. He discusses the importance of the CPA exam, his study strategies, and the challenges facing the accounting profession today. David emphasizes the need for greater awareness of accounting careers and the potential impact of AI on the industry. He also reflects on his personal background and the support he rece...
25
June 11, 2025

Episode 25: Scott Krug, CFO, New York Yankees

In this episode of the Trusted Professional Podcast, Scott Krug, CFO of the New York Yankees, shares insights from his extensive career in accounting and finance. He discusses his journey into the accounting profession, the challenges faced by accountants today, and the importance of understanding business beyond just numbers. Scott emphasizes the value of hard work and offers advice for aspiring accountants, highlighting the impact of public accounting experience on career development. He also ...
24
May 21, 2025

Episode 24: Interviews at AICPA Spring Council Meeting

In this episode, Calvin Harris Jr., CPA, interviews four accounting professionals participating in the leadership events at the AICPA conference in Washington DC.
23
May 7, 2025

NYSSCPA Trusted Professional Podcast Episode 23: Robert Huether

In this episode, Calvin Harris Jr. interviews Bob Huether, a CPA and Executive Director of SEC Reporting at Estee Lauder. Bob shares his unique journey into the accounting profession, starting from an internship at National Grid to his current role overseeing SEC reporting. He discusses the importance of industry experience, the dynamics of working in a large corporation, and the challenges facing the accounting profession, particularly in attracting new talent. Bob emphasizes the value of netwo...
22
April 23, 2025

NYSSCPA Trusted Professional Podcast Episode 22: Andy Mintzer

In this episode of the Trusted Professional Podcast, Calvin Harris Jr. speaks with Andy Mintzer, a forensic accountant with extensive experience in accounting standards and ethics. They discuss Andy's journey into accounting, the challenges facing the profession, the impact of ESG (Environmental, Social, and Governance) reporting, and the role of technology in shaping the future of accounting. Andy emphasizes the importance of maintaining professional standards and the need for the accounting pr...
21
April 9, 2025

NYSSCPA Trusted Professional Podcast Episode 21: Willliam Huether

In this episode, Calvin Harris Jr. interviews William Huether, a CPA with a unique journey from skateboarding to accounting. Bill shares his experiences in both private and public accounting, the importance of networking and mentorship, and discusses the challenges and opportunities facing the accounting profession today, particularly in light of technological advancements. William and Calvin discuss the evolving role of accountants, emphasizing the importance of client relationships and adviso...