News from your accounting association
Cg Business Advisor: Podcasting for Culture and Brand
Interview with Deborah Sundermann and Danielle Bagdzinski, Cg Tax, Audit & Advisory
Accounting and advisory firms across the country are continuously working to set themselves apart from others in the industry. At Cg Tax, Audit & Advisory (Cg), headquartered in Tinton Falls, N.J., one way they’ve found to set their firm and their brand apart from other firms, is through their podcast, the Cg Business Advisor.
Started in August 2020, their monthly podcast just celebrated its fifth anniversary.
October 2025 IN THIS ISSUE:
► Cg Business Advisor: Podcasting for Culture and Brand
► Preferred Provider Spotlight - Crunchafi ► Tax Conference
► Member News
► CPAmerica InsightsGrace Horvath
from cryptocurrency to employee stock ownership plans to fitness and well-being, as well as recruitment.”
Working in advance, they try to keep topics and content somewhat evergreen but have room to add in crucial timely updates that arise. Bagdzinski works closely with Seidenberg to ensure the editing and final product aligns with their brand and the messages they want to convey.
value to those relationships.
Their podcast has evolved somewhat over the years, but the goal has remained the same, to create new pieces of thought leadership and potentially reach new audiences. We spoke with Cg’s shareholder/managing director, Deborah Sundermann and Cg’s director of marketing, talent & team, Danielle Bagdzinski about their podcasting experience.
Wanting to make their podcast unique from other standard accounting podcasts, Bagdzinski shared how they explored some unorthodox topics featuring outside guests with their host and editor, Scott Seidenberg.
“We decided we really wanted to diversify ourselves as a firm and the topics and external guests we’ve brought on have spanned a variety over the years,” said Bagdzinski. “We’ve talked about everything
“When it comes to external guests, it’s on a referral basis and we’ve been incredibly fortunate with the connections that our team members have made. We call these types of referral sources, or subject matter experts, our centers of influence,” continued Bagdzinski.
“From the team member perspective, featuring someone as a center of influence on the podcast helps make those relationships more ‘sticky’,” said Sundermann. “This is another way that we can add value for our clients because now they’re subject matter experts on our podcast. So, it’s really just another way of leveraging that relationship, and they appreciate it.”
The team also relies on their internal Cg experts periodically for more technical topics, especially if there’s something big when it comes to tax legislation or changes that their audience needs to be aware of. Other team members are also encouraged to suggest topics or subject matter experts to interview. This allows the entire Cg team the ability to share topics that are important to their clients or they’ve heard their clients mention, which adds additional
When Sundermann become managing director in January of 2024, the podcast was a great place to show a different side of the firm’s new leader. Having been with Cg since 1996, Sundermann was surprised how many clients or staff members didn’t know her story and the journey she took to leading the firm. The podcast provided the perfect medium for her to share that story.
“When I took over as managing partner, almost two years ago, they had me on the podcast because it was the first time that we had a transition from our very first managing partner to me. So, it was a bit of a big deal in the history of Cg,” said Sundermann.
“I had some clients and team members listen to the episode and they had no idea that I basically grew up here,” shared Sundermann. “My journey is not very unique to Cg because we have a lot of longevity here, but I’m proud of the fact that I started from a very entry level position and grew up within the walls of Cg.”
As a frequent “best place to work” honoree, Cg prioritizes their employees. Whether it’s through their podcast or their employee engagement committee opportunities, they put employee well-being and quality of life top-of-mind.
“We are truly a quality of life firm, and we have a culture that’s really special,” said
See Podcast, continued on page 2
Deborah Sundermann
Danielle Bagdzinski
Preferred Provider Spotlight Crunchafi
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SOC 2 Type II reports provide confidence in compliance.
• Data Extraction: Automate ERP data pulls to eliminate errors and speed up engagements. Purposebuilt Excel workbooks and real-time visualizations
For more information, please visit www.crunchafi.com or email emily.lewis@crunchafi.com.
Bagdzinski. “I have worked other places, and you don’t necessarily find that.”
“Being a part of CPAmerica, I’m proud that so many fellow member firms are also listed as best places to work,” said Sundermann. “We’re so proud to be listed ourselves, but to look around and see so many others recognized, as an association of firms we’re doing a great job.”
“And if our team is voting for us to be a best place to work, we’re doing something right. I think a lot of that comes from CPAmerica too and the things we’ve learned through the association,” continued Sundermann.
The Cg Business Advisor podcast can be found wherever you get your podcasts or at www.cgteam.com/cg-biz-advisor.
If you have questions for the Cg team, please contact Deborah Sundermann at dsundermann@cgteam.com or Danielle Bagdzinski at dbagdzinski@cgteam.com.
Upcoming Event Dates
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Tax Conference
Rancho Mirage, California
| November 16-19
The Westin Rancho Mirage Golf Resort & Spa
Our annual Tax Conference brings together tax professionals for an energizing mix of learning, leadership, and networking at a luxury resort located in Coachella Valley in the city of Rancho Mirage. The timely agenda features expert-led sessions on tax law changes, international tax, AI integration, emotional intelligence, firm management and more. Member sharing sessions by firm size add a collaborative and personalized learning experience. Adding to the excitement, a special evening event at the Palm Springs Air Museum offers a one-of-a-kind opportunity to mingle in a historic and inspiring venue. Your annual Tax Conference is more than just professional development, it’s where strategy meets sunshine. We hope to see you there!
Featuring these influential speakers and more:
Sean King, Align Global Consulting | Samuel Donaldson, Georgia State University College of Law | Matt Paparella and Andrew Eisinger, Crowe LLP | Bob Lewis, The Visionary Group | Jeremy Clopton, Upstream Academy | David Aughtry and Chuck Rettig, Chamberlain Hrdlicka
Aldridge Borden announces six key promotions across their Alabama offices
Aldridge Borden is proud to announce six well-deserved promotions within the firm, reflecting its ongoing commitment to recognizing talent, fostering leadership, and delivering exceptional service.
specialization in co-ops and agribusiness. Mathieson, Moyski, Austin & Co. announces two promotions
Melissa Hill, CPA, has been promoted to partner. Hill joined Aldridge Borden in 2015 and has excelled in the Assurance Department. She specializes in attestation and tax for nonprofits and contractors and is known for mentoring younger professionals. Lauryn Beckham, CPA, has been promoted to manager. Since 2023, Beckham has strengthened audit engagements in Auburn while staying active in community and nonprofit service. Sara Davis, CPA, has been promoted to manager. A CPA who began as an intern in 2020, Davis is valued for her positivity and expertise in individual and business tax. Hayden Ford, CPA, has been promoted to manager. Since joining in 2021, Ford has helped small businesses thrive through improved automation and client accounting services. Lauren May, CPA, has been promoted to manager. May joined Aldridge Borden in 2020 and plays a key role in tax compliance and client advisory services. Emily Gilbert, CPA, has been promoted to senior accountant. Gilbert joined the firm in 2024, and supports clients with tax preparation and bookkeeping.
mAthieson, moyski, Austin & Co., llP (mmA), located in Lisle and Northbrook, Ill. is happy to announce the promotions for two of its staff members. May Goshorn has been promoted to senior tax accountant. Goshorn interned with MMA, before joining full-time in May 2023. She works on the more complex engagements and assists in training new staff. She is also active in the Fox Valley Chapter of the Illinois CPA Society and serves as the secretary. Kirstin O’Connor has been promoted to senior audit accountant. O’Connor interned with MMA, before joining full-time in June 2023. She works on the 401(k), Not-for-Profit and Risk Pool Audits and assists in training new staff. MMA congratulates both of them on their promotions and thanks them for their hard work and dedication.
Vesta
Widmer Roel announces three team member promotions
Widmer roel PC, headquartered in Fargo, N.D., is pleased to announce three team member promotions. Julia StenbergHiemstra, CPA, has been promoted to audit manager. Stenberg-Hiemstra is licensed in North Dakota and Minnesota and brings five years of public accounting experience. She will continue providing audit and assurance services to a wide range of clients. Matthew Rudolph, CPA, has been promoted to senior audit associate. Rudolph is licensed in North Dakota and has over three years of public accounting experience. He will continue providing audit and assurance services to a wide range of clients with a focus in Employee Benefit Plans and Commercial. Brody Engen, CPA, has been promoted to tax manager. Engen is licensed in North Dakota and has six years of public accounting experience, including his internship. He will continue providing tax planning and preparation services to a wide range of clients, with a
promoted to manager of Tax Services and Robert Heitz, CPA, MBA, has been promoted to Director of Client Accounting Services. These promotions are more than just new titles, they’re a reflection of their hard work, leadership, and dedication.
Meyers Brothers Kalicka, P.C. announces new hires
managing shareholder recognized by Employ Humanity
VestA, the Wisconsin-based CPA-led advisory firm, is proud to celebrate their CEO and managing shareholder, Nathan Volkomener, who has been recognized as an Inspirational Leader by Employ Humanity! Volkomener’s leadership is rooted in compassion, vision, and integrity. He leads with empathy and humility, always putting people first — whether it’s mentoring team members, supporting community initiatives, or fostering an environment of trust and growth. This recognition reflects the positive impact Nathan has not only on Vesta, but on everyone around him. Congratulations, Nathan, on this well-deserved honor!
Swink Coplen & Company,
P.C. announces three promotions
sWink CoPlen & ComPAny, P.C., headquartered in St. Louis, Mo., is proud to announce some next-level promotions for three of their team members. Paige Myers, CPA, has been promoted to manager of Client Accounting Services, Caleb Cone, CPA, has been
meyers Brothers kAliCkA, P.C. (mBk), is proud to announce the following new hires: Edmund Keyes III, CPA, MSA, Mary Walsh, JD, LL.M, CPA, and JoLynn Wells, CPA, MST. Keyes was hired as a supervisor in the firm’s Taxation Department. Prior to MBK, he worked for five years in the corporate taxation department for a Boston-based firm. Keyes’s approach is rooted in a genuine dedication to service. Walsh was brought on to the firm’s Taxation Department as a senior manager. Bringing over 30 years of experience in tax practice, controversy and education, she also offers deep expertise in technical training as she joins MBK. Wells was also recently welcomed to the firm as a manager in the Taxation Department. Combining her background in education with Big 4 experience navigating mergers & acquisitions and complex partnership transactions, she brings strategic insight and clear communication to every engagement.
Stephano Slack promotes Kristen Matkowsky, CPA to partner
stePhAno slACk, one of the region’s premier accounting firms, is proud to announce the promotion of Kristen Matkowsky, CPA, from manager to partner. With more than 18 years of experience in public accounting, Kristen brings extensive expertise across a wide range of services, including corporate and individual tax planning and compliance, QuickBooks implementation and training, client accounting services, and business valuation services for divorce, gift, and estate tax planning.
Melissa Hill
May Goshorn
Mary Walsh
Kirstin O’Connor
Nathan Volkomener
Kristen Matkowsky
Edmund Keyes III
JoLynn Wells
Turning Participation Into Advantage
Why the hallmarks of CPAmerica membership fuel growth and sustainability
If there is one thing that sets CPAmerica apart, it’s our culture of sharing. We are an association of independent firms, but no one here operates in isolation. Our members know that when they walk into a meeting or pick up the phone to call a fellow firm, they’re not just networking for networking’s sake—they’re tapping into a community where collaboration has a direct impact on the strength, profitability, and sustainability of their practices.
This is why our tagline, “Where Collaboration Means Business,” rings so true. Collaboration in CPAmerica is not just a pleasant byproduct of membership. It is the differentiator that helps our firms adapt, grow, and compete.
The Hallmarks of Membership
To make sure every firm has the opportunity to benefit from this culture, CPAmerica established three minimum participation requirements that were implemented as part of our strategy in 2012. These are not meant as boxes to check. Instead, they are hallmarks of membership—the shared experiences that build trust and move firms forward.
Visitation Improvement Program (VIP)
The VIP is one of the most powerful tools we have; so important in fact that the costs are funded by dues. Every four to five years, a member firm hosts a peer-led team of consultants—at least two leading partners and a CPAmerica executive—who spend time learning about the firm and offering candid, constructive feedback.
For many firms, the VIP has been a turning point. It’s not unusual to hear members say the VIP was the reason they made a critical change or discovered a new opportunity. The process creates a safe space where colleagues share openly, offer real-world insights, and help each other see blind spots. While hosting a VIP is a requirement, it is also one of the greatest advantages of membership. It’s a chance to step back, take stock, and
come away with ideas that can change the trajectory of a firm.
“Our largest benefit from CPAmerica has come from the Visitation Improvement Program. What we received from our first VIP helped our firm take the next step towards growth. The benefits we saw from that program are really a tribute to our success—and maybe even why we’re still here today.”
Practice Management Survey
Every year, member firms participate in the confidential Practice Management Survey. This survey is more than a data collection exercise—it is a benchmarking tool that allows firms to see how they compare to their peers on issues like partner compensation, staffing, and strategy. The insights gained here help leaders make smarter, more informed decisions, backed by real numbers and trends from firms like their own.
Leading Partners Retreat
The annual Leading Partners Retreat is another cornerstone. Every firm is represented, ensuring that our most senior leaders have the chance to engage with one another. The retreat is where ideas are exchanged, where professional challenges are discussed candidly, and where new collaborations are often born. More than any other event, it is the heartbeat of the association, keeping members connected and inspired.
“The greatest benefit of CPAmerica membership is the member sharing that happens at our meetings. Sending people to these events creates partnerships and connections that prove invaluable in helping firms grow their business.”
Together, these three requirements ensure that all members contribute to the rhythm of sharing and collaboration that defines CPAmerica.
Beyond the Requirements
Of course, these three foundational pillars are just the beginning. Members have many other ways to engage and share: attending conferences and roundtables, contributing to the Sharing Libraries, joining discussion forums across functional areas and industry niches,
and serving on committees that ensure association resources are relevant, and member driven. These activities are not mandatory, but they enrich the association and provide countless opportunities to learn and grow.
Participation With Impact
It’s easy to think of participation standards as obligations. But in CPAmerica, the truth is that they are advantages that create a competitive edge. When firms embrace the VIP, take part in the Practice Management Survey, and send representatives to the Leading Partners Retreat, they are investing in their own strength.
In short, collaboration really does mean business.
Contact us at:
7555 W. University Ave. Gainesville, FL 32607 (352) 727-4070
www.cpamerica.org
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Send feedback and member firm news to: advantage@cpamerica.org
Grace Horvath, President & CEO
2025 Leading Partners Retreat & Firm Management Roundtable
September 16-19 | Napa, California |
The Meritage Resort & Spa
The evening of Tuesday, September 16, marked the beginning of the annual Leading Partners Retreat (LPR) and Firm Management Roundtable (FMR) at The Meritage Resort & Spa in beautiful Napa, California. This gorgeous sprawling California wine country escape provided the perfect environment for our members to network, learn from expert speakers and each other.
After a relaxing evening connecting in the resort vineyard, the first day started strong with a NextGen Panel featuring members, Brody Engen (Widmer Roel), Dani Opperud (Aldrich), and Kelly Cowhig (Vesta). The panel was moderated by Charles Hylan (Hylan Advisory) and offered members valuable multi-generational insights and discussion. Next, CPAmerica President & CEO, Grace Horvath, officially welcomed members and updated them on the state of the association. Attendees then received a valuable view into top performing CPA firms featuring members Lee Cohen (LMC Advisors), Jim DeLeo (Gray, Gray & Gray), Seth McDaniel (Frazier & Deeter), Kyle Parks (Maxwell Locke & Ritter) and Lisa Shuneson (Whalen CPAs), also facilitated by Hylan. Jennifer Wilson (Convergence Coaching) then led the group in a discussion of partner performance unity. We wrapped a productive day with member sharing by firm size and a Connection Reception before an evening of exploring the wonderful options Napa has to offer.
Day two started strong with optional “Business Before Hours” sessions on various topics, including an AI update and leadership planning. Kristin Scroggin (Generational Diversity Consultant) then dove into her session, Attracting and Retaining the Next Greatest Generation. The generational discussions continued with Ryan Jenkins (Bestselling Leadership Author) in his session, Lead & Work Across Generations. After a celebratory lunch (We had several birthdays to fête!), Bob Lewis (The Visionary Group) led a timely session on the path to remaining independent. After lively member sharing by topic, the meeting session broke to be followed by an elegant evening at Brindare Estate. Attendees enjoyed a special event surrounded by lush vineyards, stunning gardens, and breathtaking mountain vistas.
The last day of the meeting began with more “Business Before Hours” sessions, before the highly anticipated State of the Profession presented by Mark Koziel (AICPA & CIMA). After a networking break, attendees gained practical knowledge in the cutting-edge AI Workshop led by Juan Carlos Lara (Crowe Global). The meeting closed out with a Monday Morning Game Plan with attendees sharing their biggest takeaways they will work on in their firms.
CPAmerica President & CEO, Grace Horvath delivering opening remarks and welcoming meeting attendees
(L to R) Jared Weidner (MeredithCPAs), Joe Romero (GYL LLP) and Tullus Miller (Cathedral CPAs & Advisors)
(L to R) Seth McDaniel (Frazier & Deeter), Jim DeLeo (Gray, Gray & Gray), and Charles Hylan (Hylan Advisory) during the insights from top performing firms panel discussion
Firm Management Roundtable topics important to your firm
In addition to several joint sessions with LPR, the Firm Management Roundtable (FMR) group had sessions specifically related to those in the role of firm administration, HR and COOs. The first meeting day began with From the Ground Up: Your Role in Building the Talent Pipeline with Jennifer Wilson (Convergence Coaching) and an FMRexclusive look a the Practice Management Survey with Charles Hylan (Hylan Advisory). The group continued the afternoon with the member sharing session, Exploring AI in the Accounting Firm, faciltated by Jennifer Stief (Sol Schwartz & Associates) and Erin Raukar (Cummings, Keegan & Co.). Everyone came back together for the Connection Reception before an evening of exploring Napa.
The next day attendees enjoyed optional “Business Before Hours” on a variety of topics before reconvening with the group for sessions with Kristin Scroggin (Generational Diversity Consultant) and Ryan Jenkins (Bestselling Leadership Author). After a networking lunch, the group continued in the afternoon with their FMR-tailored sessions from our generational experts, Finding Success with a Generational Approach to Succession Planning and Connectable: Improve Retention and Performance via Stronger Cross-Generational Connection, respectively. After an “anything goes” member sharing session, attendees ended the day at the scenic Brindare Estate for an evening of delcious food and drinks, and connection under the stars.
The last day of the meeting began with more “Business Before Hours” sessions, and the State of the Profession presented by Mark Koziel (AICPA & CIMA). After a networking break and visit with our sponsors, attendees enjoyed an AI Workshop led by Juan Carlos Lara (Crowe Global). The meeting closed out with a Monday Morning Game Plan with attendees sharing their biggest takeaways they will work on in their firms.
(L to R) Ingrid Jensen (Crowe BGK LLP), Patty Kautz (GRF CPAs & Advisors), David Ludwick (THF), Tara Gartrell (Cooper Norman), and Amanda Creel (Maxwell Locke & Ritter)
Save the date for the 2026 LPR and FMR, September 29-October 2, at The Grand Hyatt in Atlanta, Georgia
Scan the QR codes below for more information and to register Tax Conference November 16-19
The Westin Rancho Mirage Rancho Mirage, California
International Group Meeting
December 2-5
Four Seasons Ft. Lauderdale Fort Lauderdale, Florida
Thank you to our 2025 LPR and FMR co-chairs!
CPAmerica’s annual Leading Partners Retreat is the association’s flagship event. Our members play a key role in the success of the event, and having co-chairs with the expertise and perspective is crucial in the planning process.
Thank you to our 2025 LPR co-chairs, Blake Johnson (Cooper Norman) and Deborah Sundermann (Cg Tax, Audit & Advisory)! Thank you to our 2025 FMR co-chairs, Galen Broderick (Barnard Vogler & Co.) and Jennifer Stief (Sol Schwartz & Associates)!
The 2026 LPR co-chairs will be Brad Beasley (Beasley, Mitchell & Co.) and Teela McCullar (Barnard, Vogler & Co.).
The 2026 FMR co-chairs will be Erin Raukar (Cummings, Keegan & Co.) and Jim Stiffler (Maxwell Locke & Ritter).
(L to R) Stephanie Bailes, LPR co-chairs Blake Johnson and Deborah Sundermann, and Grace Horvath
(L to R) Michelle Powell, FMR co-chairs Jennifer Stief and Galen Broderick, and Grace Horvath