Gentle Frog’s Bookkeeping Lily Pad
Business & Economics Podcasts
Welcome to Gentle Frog’s Bookkeeping Lily Pad, your cozy corner of the podcasting world where numbers tell a story and bookkeeping blossoms into an adventure! Dive in with Rachel Barnett, seasoned bookkeeper, and successful entrepreneur, as she leaps from one topic to another, guiding you through the riveting ecosystem of bookkeeping businesses. Having journeyed through the challenges of building, growing, and eventually selling her own bookkeeping firm, Rachel brings a wealth of experience and heartfelt advice to aspiring and established bookkeeping professionals. With a passion that extends beyond ledgers and spreadsheets, she’s here to offer a supportive platform for industry insights, practical strategies, and the shared experiences that breathe life into the bookkeeping community. Each episode, roughly 20 minutes, is a concise, content-rich package designed to fit into your busy schedule. Rachel welcomes a variety of guest speakers, from thriving bookkeeping business owners to other industry experts, ensuring a well-rounded perspective on all aspects of the profession. They’re not just talking debits and credits; they’re celebrating the entrepreneurial spirit, discussing client relations, marketing strategies, balancing work-life dynamics, embracing technology, and so much more. But it’s not all serious business; amidst the valuable insights are sprinkles of light-hearted moments, personal anecdotes, and the camaraderie that makes the bookkeeping community genuinely unique. It’s a balance sheet for the soul that underscores the human side of numbers. So, are you ready to hop onto a lily pad of learning and laughter? Subscribe to Gentle Frog’s Bookkeeping Lily Pad, and join Rachel Barnett on a transformative journey across the tranquil waters of bookkeeping business mastery. It’s time to make some un’frog’ettable memories in the world of finance!
Location:
United States
Description:
Welcome to Gentle Frog’s Bookkeeping Lily Pad, your cozy corner of the podcasting world where numbers tell a story and bookkeeping blossoms into an adventure! Dive in with Rachel Barnett, seasoned bookkeeper, and successful entrepreneur, as she leaps from one topic to another, guiding you through the riveting ecosystem of bookkeeping businesses. Having journeyed through the challenges of building, growing, and eventually selling her own bookkeeping firm, Rachel brings a wealth of experience and heartfelt advice to aspiring and established bookkeeping professionals. With a passion that extends beyond ledgers and spreadsheets, she’s here to offer a supportive platform for industry insights, practical strategies, and the shared experiences that breathe life into the bookkeeping community. Each episode, roughly 20 minutes, is a concise, content-rich package designed to fit into your busy schedule. Rachel welcomes a variety of guest speakers, from thriving bookkeeping business owners to other industry experts, ensuring a well-rounded perspective on all aspects of the profession. They’re not just talking debits and credits; they’re celebrating the entrepreneurial spirit, discussing client relations, marketing strategies, balancing work-life dynamics, embracing technology, and so much more. But it’s not all serious business; amidst the valuable insights are sprinkles of light-hearted moments, personal anecdotes, and the camaraderie that makes the bookkeeping community genuinely unique. It’s a balance sheet for the soul that underscores the human side of numbers. So, are you ready to hop onto a lily pad of learning and laughter? Subscribe to Gentle Frog’s Bookkeeping Lily Pad, and join Rachel Barnett on a transformative journey across the tranquil waters of bookkeeping business mastery. It’s time to make some un’frog’ettable memories in the world of finance!
Language:
English
Website:
https://gentlefrog.com/
Email:
rachel@gentlefrog.com
Episodes
Episode Thirty Three - Bookkeeping Business Discussion: From Contractor Status to 1099s
5/10/2024
In this episode join Rachel Barnett and the Bookkeeping Handmaid, Elizabeth Sims, in a discussion on the ins and outs of operating a small bookkeeping business. Tune in as they tackle common questions, and shed light on crucial aspects of running a successful bookkeeping venture. From addressing misconceptions about contractor status to unraveling the complexities of W-9s and 1099s. Whether you're a seasoned professional or just starting out, this candid conversation is sure to provide valuable tips and inspiration to fuel your journey in the world of bookkeeping.
Duration:00:14:51
Episode Thirty Two - Unlocking Efficiency: The Roles of Admin Help in Business Operations
5/3/2024
In this episode, Rachel dismantles the myth of the "super admin" and explores the various tasks that can be efficiently outsourced. From social media management to client communication oversight. Learn how strategic delegation can alleviate bottlenecks, empower your team, and propel your business forward. Whether you're a seasoned entrepreneur or just beginning to explore administrative support, tune in to uncover the secrets of maximizing efficiency with admin help.
Grow My Accounting Practice with Mike Michalowicz - https://growmyaccountingpractice.com/
Gentlefrog.com/about
Duration:00:11:18
Episode Thirty One - Identifying What Role to Fill First in Your Bookkeeping Business
4/19/2024
As your business expands, you might find yourself at a crossroads, needing to bring on additional support. The first step? Figuring out which role to fill. It's important to identify exactly what you need and what will benefit you the most (not what’s trendy or popular). When Rachel embarked on her Gentle Frog journey, she didn't seek another bookkeeper. Instead, her initial hire was her former CRM manager (Nena) who was responsible for tracking incoming leads and nudging—sometimes pushing—her to follow up. This role was all about tying up loose ends. Spoiler: Rachel's need for someone to organize her loose ends hasn't changed in the past five years, this is why you hear about Jess so frequently!
Nena - my former “boss”, CRM manager, and right hand: https://www.linkedin.com/in/snezana-markoc-908124170/. If you are looking for someone to forcefully nudge you along, reach out to her and ask if she’s accepting clients.
Duration:00:13:24
Episode Thirty - Harmonizing Team Support in Your Bookkeeping Bookkeeping
4/12/2024
In this episode, Rachel delves into setting clear expectations for working with your team and explores various strategies to support your team members effectively. She shares insights on creating a collaborative environment where both you and your team can thrive, achieving mutual satisfaction in the working relationship. Rachel highlights practical tools like Slack for communication and the importance of a thoughtful onboarding process.
Otter for transcriptions - https://otter.ai/home
Slack - https://slack.com/
The whole team - https://www.gentlefrog.com/about/
Nena, our former admin (CRM manager) who helped shape Rachel and Gentle Frog into what has become - https://www.linkedin.com/in/snezana-markoc-908124170/
Duration:00:20:52
Episode Twenty Nine - The Upsides of (Accidentally) Underbidding Projects
4/5/2024
In this episode of Gentle Frog's Bookkeeping Lily Pad, Rachel Barnett dives into the silver linings of underbidding projects. Despite the initial feelings of disappointment, she highlights the benefits like cash flow, building relationships, gaining experience, and improving efficiency with software. Rachel also stresses the importance of learning from each project, whether it's mastering a new software or getting better at identifying things to look for when preparing your next proposal. Sometimes the win is that you’ve made someone else’s day better by offering them a screaming deal on their project.
Saasant: https://www.saasant.com/
Facebook Group: https://www.facebook.com/groups/gentlefrogsbookkeepinglilypad
Get on my calendar: https://gentlefrog.com/meeting
Interested in group coaching? https://gentlefrog.com/group-coaching
Duration:00:07:29
Episode Twenty Seven - Navigating Client-Caused Complications in Bookkeeping Projects
3/29/2024
In this episode of Gentle Frog's Bookkeeping Lily Pad, Rachel Barnett talks about a bookkeeping dilemma: handling a client who messes up their financial records during the course of a cleanup, making it harder for the bookkeeper to finish the project because they’ve just created a bunch of extra work. Rachel gives an example where this happened (to someone else) and discusses possible ways to address this and other scope creep issues.
Gentle Frog’s diagnostic review and clean up course: https://courses.gentlefrog.com/offers/AvrZAG8u/checkout
97 & Up — affiliate link & welcome offer: https://www.nerdenterprises.com/a/2147546802/DyoHDAZY
How we work and what to expect: https://www.gentlefrog.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/10/2023-Gentle-Frog-Welcome-and-What-to-Expect.pdf
My recent video on Rewind backup software: https://youtu.be/OjUpwlDaoHk?si=wcIu3NnNoG6XE_n1 (there are other videos on my YouTube channel)
My Facebook group: https://www.facebook.com/groups/gentlefrogsbookkeepinglilypad
Wanna chat? Let’s grab Zoom coffee: https://gentlefrog.com/meeting
Duration:00:13:56
Episode Twenty Eight - I’m Considering Offering Group Coaching. Help Me Decide!
3/27/2024
Hey there, it's Rachel from Gentle Frog! I'm super excited to share a little something I've been pondering – a group coaching program designed specifically for new bookkeepers.
Imagine a space where we tackle those first-client jitters together, with live support and a treasure trove of resources.
Curious? Click here to learn more let me know if you’re interested.
https://gentlefrog.com/group-coaching
Duration:00:07:48
Episode Twenty Six - Marketing Tips For Small Business with Jodi Snow
3/22/2024
In this episode of Gentle Frog's Bookkeeping Lily Pad, Rachel Barnett and Jody Snow dive into the challenges entrepreneurs face, regardless of their business's size. They share insights on creative, budget-friendly marketing strategies that work for people who want to attend in person events as well as for folks who are more inclined to market virtually.
1,000,000 cups: https://www.1millioncups.com/s/
Goldman Sachs 10,000 Small Businesses: https://10ksbapply.com/
SCORE workshops: https://www.score.org/workshops-events
Texas Woman’s University, Center for Entrepreneurs: https://twu.edu/center-women-entrepreneurs/
Duration:00:16:05
Episode Twenty Five - I Was Wrong About Course Pricing
3/15/2024
Join Rachel Barnett as she delves into the challenges and revelations of reevaluating her pricing model. This episode offers a candid look at the trial and error behind optimizing course offerings, the power of listening to one's audience, and the importance of being flexible in business strategy. A journey of discovery for bookkeepers and entrepreneurs alike.
“Before You Stop Posting On Instagram or Youtube... You NEED to Watch This.” by Vanessa Lau https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=QyLTuw8d12I
12 week year: https://12weekyear.com/
Gentle Frog’s Courses: https://www.gentlefrog.com/qbo-courses/
Duration:00:16:02
Episode Twenty Four - What is a Niche?
3/1/2024
In this episode, Rachel Barnett explores the concept of niches in the context of owning and operating a small bookkeeping business. She discusses the flexibility of niches, how they can be based on factors like geography or software preference, and the importance of working with clients you enjoy.
Why Kate Josephine Johnson niched in Freshbooks: https://www.freshbooks.com/blog/kate-josephine-johnson
Kate’s bookkeeping website: https://heritagebusinessservices.com/
Accounting Coach: https://www.accountingcoach.com/
Julie and Julia: https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Julie_%26_Julia
Moroccan cookbook that I’ve used for years and love: Amazon Cookbook
Here is a 10 min YouTube interview that I found about niches and I really liked it, I found it after recording or I would have mentioned it. https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=VgerS0pPxP8
Nerd Enterprises aka Seth David’s 97 and Up group (affiliate link): https://www.nerdenterprises.com/a/20214/DyoHDAZY
Duration:00:12:54
Episode Twenty Three - Clarifying Your Subcontracting Journey: Expectations vs. Reality
2/13/2024
In this episode Rachel talks about managing your expectations as a person who goes to work as a subcontractor for someone else. Specifically, thinking about what you’re hoping to get out of the experience of subcontracting. In her experience most subcontracting gigs are just to pass off overflow work and not to provide mentorship to others but those opportunities do exist. She talks about feedback she’s been given when she mentors others, this is shared so that the listener can perhaps use it to identify what they’re hoping to get out of a relationship with others.
Gentle Frog’s VIP offer: https://www.gentlefrog.com/vip-offer/
Fake check scam: https://consumer.ftc.gov/articles/how-spot-avoid-report-fake-check-scams
Goodreads about The One Thing: https://www.goodreads.com/book/show/16256798-the-one-thing
QuickBooks Online Apps: https://apps.com/
‘Appy Hour: https://www.facebook.com/qbappyhour and https://www.theappyhour.com/
SCORE mentors: https://www.score.org/find-mentor
Facebook group for this podcast: https://www.facebook.com/groups/gentlefrogsbookkeepinglilypad
Our other podcast, Gentle Frog’s Bookkeeping Landing Pad: https://gentlefrogslandingpad.podbean.com/
Duration:00:15:32
Episode Twenty Two - Navigating Doubts and Seeking Experienced Guidance in Bookkeeping
2/9/2024
In today's episode of Gentle Frog's Bookkeeping Lilypad, Rachel Barnett dives into the parallels between learning Pilates and learning to be a bookkeeper for small businesses. She shares her personal experience of doubting her Pilates technique based on seeing others perform an exercise differently and applies this to the experience of seeing answers in online forums and how just because someone is confident, doesn’t make them right.
Rachel encourages listeners to seek advice from those who've truly walked the path before, highlighting the value of authentic experience over mere opinion.
Facebook Community Group:
https://www.facebook.com/groups/gentlefrogsbookkeepinglilypad
Pilates machine: https://www.pilates.com/collections/pilates-reformers/
Seth David / Nerd’s Guide to the Galaxy:
https://www.nerdenterprises.com/a/2147522163/DyoHDAZY (affiliate link but it’s free)
Becky Frampton / Pachira Business Solutions: https://pachirabusinesssolutions.com/
Gentle Frog VIP offer: https://www.gentlefrog.com/vip-offer/
Varonica Wasek / 5 MB Academy course: https://courses.5mbacademy.com/courses/shopify-bookkeeping-method
Seth David / Nerd Enterprises courses: https://www.nerdenterprises.com/a/2147505668/DyoHDAZY (affiliate link)
Ron Baker and Ed Kless / The Soul of Enterprise Podcast: https://www.thesoulofenterprise.com/
Mark Wickersham / Value Pricing: https://www.wickersham.co.uk/
Ski Skirt Example: https://www.columbiasportswear.ca/en/c/women-bottoms-shortsskorts/?prefv1=Warmth&prefn1=productTechnology
My other podcast, Gentle Frog’s Landing Pad: https://gentlefrogslandingpad.podbean.com/
Duration:00:12:45
Episode Twenty One - Discussion: Anne Little & Rachel Barnett on Navigating Price Increases
2/6/2024
In this episode, Anne Little and Rachel Barnett chat about how to handle price increases with clients. They talk about timing, minimums and the challenges of raising the price when you’re a new bookkeeper.
The podcast is a bit of Anne interviewing Rachel but more it’s two friends talking about the challenges of raising the price and the legacy clients who get special treatment as a way of saying “thank you”.
Little Details Bookkeeping: https://littledetailsbookkeeping.com/
Facebook group: https://www.facebook.com/groups/gentlefrogsbookkeepinglilypad
Varonica Wasek: https://www.vmwasek.com/
Dawn Brolin: https://www.dawnbrolin.com/
Seth David’s 97 & Up Group: https://www.nerdenterprises.com/a/2147546802/DyoHDAZY (Affiliate link)
Duration:00:19:07
Episode Twenty - Assessing the Need for Time Tracking in Bookkeeping
2/2/2024
In this episode of "Gentle Frog's Bookkeeping Lily Pad," Rachel Barnett delves into the subject of time tracking for bookkeepers. She opens up about her personal choice of not tracking time and explores the motivations behind bookkeepers opting to track their time, such as identifying wasted time, improving quote accuracy, and reevaluating pricing strategies. Rachel also discusses a range of time tracking tools available, including traditional options like Excel and more modern apps like Clockify and Timely, highlighting their ability to assist in monitoring different aspects of work, including client-related tasks and administrative duties. Throughout the episode, Rachel emphasizes the significance of making an individual decision regarding time tracking practices.
Timely - https://timelyapp.com/
Clockify - https://clockify.me/
Toggl - https://toggl.com/
QuickBooks Time - https://quickbooks.intuit.com/time-tracking/timesheets/
The Soul of Enterprise Podcast - https://www.thesoulofenterprise.com/
Seth David’s free group - https://www.nerdenterprises.com/a/2147522163/DyoHDAZY
Duration:00:08:43
Episode Nineteen - Exploring the Pros and Cons: Working for Yourself vs. Working for Others
1/30/2024
In the podcast episode, Rachel Barnett provides a balanced view of the advantages and disadvantages of working for oneself versus working for someone else. She highlights that while working for someone else provides stability and a fixed income, working for oneself offers the freedom to choose working hours. However, being self-employed also requires putting in extra hours and dealing with the challenges of client acquisition. Ultimately, the episode encourages listeners to consider various factors when deciding between self-employment and traditional employment.
https://pachirabusinesssolutions.com/bookkeeping-business-mentors/
https://www.nerdenterprises.com/a/20210/DyoHDAZY ←- Affiliate link to a bookkeeping crash course by my mentor, Seth David
https://gentlefrogslandingpad.podbean.com/
https://www.facebook.com/groups/gentlefrogsbookkeepinglilypad
Duration:00:19:17
Episode Eighteen - Echoes of Success: Exploring Sounding Boards
1/26/2024
In this episode, Rachel Barnett discusses the significance of having a sounding board, such as mentors, coaches and self employed friends. She reflects on her personal journey, illustrating how engaging with others has been instrumental in the success of her bookkeeping business. Rachel strongly advocates for listeners to seek out their own sounding boards for guidance and growth in their professional endeavors.
https://www.score.org/find-mentor
https://www.wendysloneker.com/
https://www.psychologytoday.com/us
https://www.nerdenterprises.com/a/2147546802/DyoHDAZY ←— Affiliate link and a coupon
https://www.facebook.com/groups/1291878781599153
https://www.imprintequity.com/aboutquicksource/ (Seattle bookkeeping group)
Duration:00:16:18
Episode Seventeen - Tech Tips for the Tech-Shy with Nicole Lux-Ritchie
1/23/2024
In this episode of Gentle Frog's Bookkeeping Lily Pad, Rachel Barnett chats with Nicole Lux-Ritchie, a technology coach. Nicole shares her slogan "don't let your technology bully you," focusing on helping the tech-shy manage their digital tools. They discuss the importance of foundational tech like email and data storage, and navigating the tech world without feeling overwhelmed. The episode is a blend of practical tech advice and encouraging support for small business owners.
https://luxcentric.com/
https://calendly.com/
https://acuityscheduling.com/
https://workspace.google.com/
https://luxcentric.com/blog/game-choose-your-password-pattern/
https://luxcentric.com/blog/game-digital-security/
https://passwords.google.com/?pli=1
Duration:00:21:33
Episode Sixteen - Tips for Effective Bookkeeping Agreements
1/19/2024
In this episode of " Gentle Frog's Bookkeeping Lilypad", a host Rachel Barnett talks about various things to include in the client engagement letter. The scope of work should describe what the bookkeeper is offering and what the client can expect. This episode was inspired by a post on the Facebook community group and includes Rachel's top five list is well as Suzette Flemming's top five list.
http://www.flemmingbusinessservices.com/
https://www.receptionhq.com/business-referral/ <-- if you like the idea of this, fill in my contact info. :)
https://www.lburgon.com/
Duration:00:14:15
Episode Fifteen - From Candidate to Colleague: Tips for Hiring
1/16/2024
In this podcast episode, Rachel guides listeners through a few tips for hiring and things to think about when narrowing down which candidate to invite to join the team. She shares insights on where to find potential candidates and offers strategies for assessing their expertise, especially in areas outside your own expertise. The discussion then shifts to compatibility between employer and candidate, touching on aspects like the candidate's capacity, your desired check-in frequency, and aligning with their long-term goals. Rachel also addresses the importance of matching teaching styles with the candidate's learning preferences and reminds people to offer a living wage.
Duration:00:14:59
Episode Fourteen - SCORE Mentoring and Workshops
1/12/2024
In this episode of the Gentle Frogs Bookkeeping Lily Pad podcast, Rachel Barnett explores her experiences with SCORE, an organization she's been involved with for over six years. The discussion covers a range of topics, from attending various workshops on marketing and financial concepts to teaching QuickBooks Online. Rachel reflects on how her involvement with SCORE has shaped her teaching style, emphasizing the importance of simplifying content for better audience understanding. She also delves into her business journey, highlighting the role of mentors at different stages and the supportive community within SCORE. This episode offers insights and practical advice for bookkeepers and small business owners.
https://www.score.org/seattle/local-workshops
https://pachirabusinesssolutions.com/bookkeeping-business-mentors/
https://www.linkedin.com/in/pam-hines-03973732/
https://www.ardeacoaching.com/
https://www.nerdenterprises.com/a/20214/DyoHDAZY
https://www.gentlefrog.com/vip-offer/
Duration:00:19:01