Next Stop: CPA

In this episode, we revisit one of the biggest topics shaping the accounting profession today. We explore the latest developments in CPA licensure, including how pathways have evolved since only a year ago, where states currently stand, and what candidates need to know as they navigate their options.  We also discuss why understanding state requirements remains an important part of the licensure j...

The relationships you build today can shape your future in ways you may not expect. In this episode, we discuss how networking, volunteering, and mentoring create opportunities for learning, growth, and career development. Learn how to find communities that align with your interests, build meaningful professional relationships, and overcome the hesitation that often comes with putting yourself out...

The job market is changing, and so is the path to becoming a CPA. In this episode, we sit down with a nationally recognized leader who is helping shape the future in recruiting to explore today's hiring landscape, the evolving role of AI, and how you can continue building momentum even when career plans take an unexpected turn. Be sure to tune in for expert advice to help you stand out, stay adapt...

The accounting profession is evolving fast, and the expectations for new CPAs are shifting right along with it. This episode unpacks the AICPA's Profession Ready Initiative, a major research-backed effort to identify the skills that early-career CPAs need to succeed in an increasingly AI-driven workplace. The discussion explores what employers are seeing on the ground when it comes to skill gaps a...

You've seen the score, but how is it actually calculated? It all comes down to psychometrics – the science of measuring knowledge and skills – and how it helps ensure the exam is fair, accurate, and consistent.  You'll learn about blind scoring, how the passing score is determined, and why it's not a percentage. We also walk through how different question types factor into your score, the role of...

If you have ever wondered who writes the test questions on the CPA Exam and how they are created, this episode is your behind-the-scenes look at the test development process.  Learn how content aligns to the CPA Exam Blueprints, what reviewers look for in a strong question, and how a thorough review process helps ensure clarity, fairness, and the right level of difficulty. It also helps demystify...

If you've been following the CPA Exam's transformation under the CPA Evolution and wondering how the new model is actually performing, this episode breaks it all down and takes a data-driven look at what two years of exam results reveal about the Core and Discipline sections. The discussion covers how pass rates and candidate volumes have shifted since the January 2024 launch, what the data really...

Are you ready to dive into the exciting world of accounting? Discover what a typical day looks like in your dream career!   This episode is facilitated by Hunter Richardson (Accounting and Computer Science student at the Georgia Institute for Technology) and is joined by Janella Andrews, CPA, Accounting Manager for the city of Palm Springs, CA who shares her personal journey into the world of gove...

If you've ever created a study plan and struggled to stick with it, you're not alone. This episode breaks down how to study smarter as you prepare to take the CPA Exam.    The discussion covers how to build a realistic timeline, common study mistakes to avoid, and proven techniques that improve retention and efficiency. Designed for candidates juggling multiple responsibilities, this episode helps...

In this episode, we sit down with a very special CEO to explore his thoughtful reflections on the journey that shaped his career and the defining moments that influenced how he leads today, from early life lessons to the pivotal decisions that ultimately brought him to the helm of the accounting profession's largest membership body.   We also dig into the future of the CPA profession, like how tec...

Curious what it really takes to pivot from a public accounting role into the world of Big Tech? Our guest speaker shares his unique CPA journey, how he navigated the transition, and what skills mattered most along the way—plus practical steps you can take now to prepare for the career path that fits you best.   This episode is hosted by Lindsey Yopp (Senior Manager CPA Pipeline, AICPA) who is join...

Do you ever wonder when your career journey really begins?   This episode is facilitated by Hunter Richardson (Accounting and Computer Science student at the Georgia Institute for Technology) and Katherine Suh (Accounting student at Indiana University) who are joined by Lexi Weber, a CPA and Senior Manager of Emerging Professionals Initiatives at the AICPA. Together, they explore how students can...

In this episode, we explore how leadership can shape—and accelerate—the journey to becoming a CPA. Our guest speaker shares how mentorship, self discovery, and stepping outside his comfort zone helped him navigate exam challenges, build confidence early in his career, and grow into an emerging leader who now aims to guide others. Whether you're studying or starting out, this conversation offers pr...

In this episode, we explore what really happens behind the scenes of the CPA Exam -- from the psychological toll of testing to the power of reframing a non‑passing score as a "practice test." Our guest speaker shares her own early setbacks, the realities of a demanding academic journey, and the practical study techniques that helped her return with confidence. Whether you're gearing up for your fi...

Curious about big opportunities that can come from working at a small firm? Join our guest speaker as she shares her journey from discovering the CPA profession to rising through the ranks to partner and ultimately finding her place in a close‑knit firm environment. Along the way, we explore what day‑to‑day life really looks like in a small accounting practice, common misconceptions students often...

In this episode, we explore what marathon training can teach us about preparing for the CPA Exam. From building consistent study habits to pacing yourself through setbacks, our guest professor shares how the endurance, discipline, and mental resilience needed to run mirrors the journey to becoming a CPA. Whether you're just lacing up for the first section or pushing through your own "wall," this c...

Discover what a typical day looks like in your dream career—insights, experiences and expert advice await!   Are you ready to dive into the exciting world of accounting? Join us for an informative "Q&A with a CPA" session to gain valuable insights into the world of accounting, highlighting the motivations, responsibilities and essential skills associated with the profession.   This episode is faci...

Are you preparing to take the CPA Exam for the first time? In this episode, we sit down with two prestigious Elijah Watt Sells Award winners who share their personal journeys, including the challenges they faced and the strategies that helped them succeed. Whether you are looking for a few helpful study hacks or just practical advice on how to balance it all, this episode is packed with actionable...

Curious about the steps for international students to earn a U.S. CPA? This episode covers everything from education requirements and application guidance to new licensure pathways and where you can take the CPA Exam. Get expert advice on practical tips, resources, and new tools—like the NASBA CPA Mobile App—to help you succeed from anywhere in the world.   This episode is hosted by Lindsey Yopp (...

In this episode, we explore the power of perseverance through failure. An aspiring CPA shares candid insights on navigating setbacks, regrouping, and coming back stronger in his career journey. Whether you're facing a setback or supporting someone who is, this episode offers inspiration, strategies, and a reminder that failure isn't the end—it's part of the path forward.   This episode is hosted b...

Are you ready to tackle the most complex tax scenarios on the CPA Exam? This episode unpacks the TCP (Tax Compliance and Planning) discipline's structure, content areas, and expert strategies for mastering tax compliance, planning, and simulations.   This episode is hosted by Liz Burkhalter (Director CPA Pipeline, AICPA) who is joined by guest speaker, Irina Moyseyenko (Senior Manager Examinations...

Explore the Business Analysis and Reporting (BAR) discipline of the CPA Exam, where data-driven decision-making meets financial storytelling. This episode breaks down key content areas like financial statement analysis, technical accounting, and data analytics to help candidates prepare with confidence.   This episode is hosted by Liz Burkhalter (Director CPA Pipeline, AICPA) who is joined by gues...

Discover key strategies for mastering the Information Systems and Controls (ISC) discipline of the CPA Exam in this episode. Tune in for expert guidance on exam structure, study tips, and practical advice to help you succeed in IT audit, risk management, and advisory topics.   This episode is hosted by Liz Burkhalter (Director CPA Pipeline, AICPA) who is joined by guest speaker, Rob Tangen (Senior...

Ready to land your first accounting internship—or make the most of the one you've got?   In this episode of "Next Stop: CPA," we're diving into the real-world stories of two future CPAs who recently experienced very different kinds of accounting internships. Hear from Katherine Suh (Accounting major at Indiana University) and Hunter Richardson (Accounting and Computer Science student at Georgia Te...

Ready to turn your education into opportunity? Talent solutions experts share practical interview prep tips based on extensive industry experience and offer real-world answers to your most pressing interview questions.   This episode is facilitated by Hunter Richardson (Accounting and Computer Science student at the Georgia Institute for Technology) who is joined by guest speakers from the Robert...