What happens when a successful CPA realizes her business is running her instead of the other way around? 

For Valerie Kemp, a realization at her 1st employeer's funeral . He was an old school accountant, after decades of working holidays and endless hours for clients, only a handful showed up to honor him. In that moment, she made herself a promise: “I will not live—and die—that way.” 

Fast forward to today, and Valerie has transformed both her business and her life. In this candid conversation with host Jim Cripps, she shares the strategic decisions, mindset shifts, and leadership lessons that allowed her to reclaim her freedom while building a stronger, more focused firm. 

💡 In this episode, you’ll learn: 

• Why selling off payroll services—a “sacred cow” she once thought untouchable—was the most liberating decision her firm ever made
• How empowering her team through weekly knowledge-sharing sessions created both confidence and better client outcomes
• The power of shifting from transactional to strategic client relationships
• Why letting go of control isn’t weakness—it’s the key to scaling sustainably
• Practical insights on recent tax legislation, including misconceptions about HR.1 (the “Big Beautiful Bill”) and its provisions for overtime and tips

For the first time in 20 years, Valerie experienced a tax season where she could watch March Madness without a laptop by her side. That small moment symbolizes the bigger transformation: building a business that serves her life instead of consuming it.
 
Her story is a powerful reminder that professional success and personal fulfillment aren’t mutually exclusive. With courage, clarity, and the right strategies, you can have both.
 
👉 Ready to Charge Forward with a healthier, more balanced approach to business? Don’t miss this inspiring episode.
 

Contact Valerie Kemp CPA
🌐 https://vkdcpa.com/
📘 https://www.facebook.com/VKDCPAfirm
📱 https://www.instagram.com/vkdcpa/
☎️ 615-792-1766

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