In this episode of The Art of Succession podcast, host Barrett Young interviews Samantha Bowling, managing partner here at GWCPA, who shares her remarkable journey from being told "we don't have women partners" to transforming an 80-year-old accounting firm's culture and leadership.

Her innovative approach to firm management continues to influence the accounting profession's evolution toward more sustainable practices.

Becoming So Good They Can't Ignore You
Samantha's story unfolds in two distinct but interconnected parts. First, she details her strategic rise to partnership, leveraging technology and innovation to prove her value despite initial resistance. Rather than accepting the status quo, she methodically implemented changes that demonstrated clear efficiency improvements, building credibility through successful technological implementations while maintaining respect for traditional practices.

Change Starts With Us
The conversation then shifts to how she's using her leadership position to revolutionize the firm's culture. Challenging the industry's "client first at any cost" mentality, Samantha shares how she's creating a sustainable business model that prioritizes both employee wellbeing and client service. Through innovative programs like "Foresight Fridays" and strategic implementation of AI, she's proving that public accounting firms can thrive with 40-hour workweeks while maintaining high service standards.

This episode offers valuable insights for professionals seeking to drive change in traditional industries, leaders working to create sustainable business cultures, and anyone interested in the future of professional services. Samantha's journey demonstrates that with strategic thinking, patience, and clear vision, even the most established firms can evolve to meet modern workplace demands while improving client service.


🎙️Full show notes, guest information, and video version of this episode available at https://gwcpas.com/blog/aos-samantha-bowling

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The Art of Succession Podcast is brought to you by GWCPA. Twice a month on https://www.youtube.com/@gwcpas, CPA and Partner Barrett Young explores the emotional and strategic challenges of leadership transition, offering honest insights and actionable advice for successors and founders. 

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Disclaimer: This podcast is for informational purposes only and does not constitute legal, tax, or accounting advice. You should consult your own advisors before making decisions related to your situation. If you don’t have an advisor yet, reach out!